Columbia Metropolitan May 2011 issue

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contents Volume 21 Number 9

39

36

Features 36 A Real Life Adventure Hero

Dr. Lee Spence examines shipwrecks for treasure

By Susan Fuller Slack, C.C.P.

39 A Week to Remember

Top looks from the University of South Carolina’s

Fashion Week

By Anne Postic Departments Local Seen 13

Summer Fun for Kids

Low cost family fun options

By Janey Goude

22 13

Independent Schools 22

Star Students

Local independent schools offer valuable educations

By Deena C. Bouknight Palmetto Business 42 42

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Standing at the Crossroads

Crossroads Career Network points job seekers to work that satisfies

By Rosanne McDowell

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contents Volume 21 Number 9 Special sections JA1 Junior Achievement: Inspiring

By Robin Cowie Nalepa

CH1 Columbia Metropolitan Home

Success

advertising sections 48

Getting Down to Business

52

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

In every issue 8 From the Editor 10 City Scoop 46 Spread the Word 55 Picture This 56 Just Married

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FROM THE EDITOR

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s my children wrap up school for the year, I can feel myself starting to walk a little slower and linger a little longer in anticipation of the soon-to-come less hectic days of summer. For me, May is a glorious month that celebrates great weather, excited children and thoughts of vacations and time spent with family.

Last year, as I began to plan out my family’s summer, I emailed one of my favorite writers, Janey Goude, to ask her advice about summer activities for families and kids. Janey is one of those “ultra moms,” and I knew she would have a long list of creative ideas. Little did I know that in response I would receive email after email from Janey, as well as the numerous contacts to whom she had forwarded my email, containing fantastic ideas for inexpensive and entertaining activities around town. I was overwhelmed by the abundance of information coming in, and I quickly insisted that Janey keep copiuos notes on all the ideas so that we could share this information with our readers in a future issue. Luckily for all of us, Janey lived up to her title of “ultra mom” as well as “fabulous researcher and writer” and compiled a splendid article for us. Don’t start planning your summer until you’ve read her article, beginning on page 13.

Don’t switch gears into summer too quickly without reading about the all-star students in our Guide to Independent Schools, beginning on page 22. Columbia is home to 19 independent schools, each offering different environments sure to suit every child’s needs. Read about the schools from the people who know them best – the students – and get further information in the Apples to Apples chart and the In Their Own Words section.

This issue also celebrates Junior Achievement and the major impact this outstanding organization has on our community and its future leaders. Learn more about what J.A. is doing every day in our schools and read the compelling stories of this year’s newest inductees into the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame in our special Junior Achievement section.

As you plan your month of May and begin looking toward the summer, don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Parade of Homes tour in Lake Carolina from May 7 through 22. Enjoy spring’s beautiful weather and learn about the latest in home design. The feature story in our latest issue of Columbia Metropolitan Home gives you details about the various builders and their homes being showcased this year.

Enjoy this issue of Columbia Metropolitan as we celebrate our schools, our community leaders and our vibrant city and all of its offerings.

Publisher

Henry Clay e d i to r

Emily Tinch A SSO C I ATE EDITOR e d i to r i a l A rt D i r e c to r

Robyn Culbertson a d v e rt i s i n g A rt D i r e c to r

Dennis Craighead Design SENIOR A DVERTISING E X E C UTIVE

Shawn Coward A DVERTISING s a l e s

Emily Clay, Margaret Clay production manager

Nancy Lambert INTERN s

Ravenel Godbold, Allyson Seitzer contributing writers

Melissa Andrews, Deena Bouknight, Janey Goude, Rosanne McDowell, Sam Morton, Robin Nalepa, Anne Postic, Susan Slack P h o to g r ap h y

Jeff Amberg, Jennifer Covington, Robert Clark, Bob Lancaster Columbia Metropolitan is published 10 times a year by Clay Publishing, Inc., 3700 Forest Drive, Suite 106, Columbia, S.C. 29204.

Copyright© Columbia Metropolitan 2011.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Advertising rates available upon request. The publishers are not responsible for the comments of authors or for unsolicited manuscripts. Subscription price $19.97 a year, $29.97 for two years in the United States. Postmaster send address changes to: Columbia Metropolitan, P.O. Box 6666, Columbia, South Carolina 29260. (803)787-6501.

Sincerely,

Emily S. Tinch Editor

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About the cover: J.B. Belk, 5, enjoys playing along the Cayce Riverwalk.

Photography by Jeff Amberg

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city scoop

Thrift Store Teams With Children’s Chance to Help Kids With Cancer

By Meg Evans

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a l m e t t o Th r i f t S t o r e a n d Gift Boutique is a unique org anization that provides financial care to the families of local children fighting cancer. Heather Harrison, owner and founder of the store, teamed up with Children’s Chance with high hopes of helping cancer patients. Palmetto Thrift donates 50 percent of their proceeds to assist families during what is an extremely tough time in their lives.

What sets this particular thrift store apart from others is its clean, organized and inviting environment. You will notice a wide variety of clothing is available for men, women and kids,

ranging from swimwear to designer bridal gowns to suits. There are also many accessories, including belts, bags and hair accessories. A great attraction is the designer labels, including clothing from Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic and Ann Taylor.

Donations are greatly appreciated and are accepted any time during regular business hours. Items that are accepted include clothing, housewares, electronics, furniture, books, linens, shoes, jewelry and purses.

For more information regarding Palmetto Thrift Store, please visit www.palmettothriftstore.com or call (803) 750-6858.

USC Department of Retailing 2011 Summer Fashion Camp

By Meg Evans

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his June, British designer and instructor Louise Hudson will run a brand new fashion camp for the University of South Carolina’s Department of Retailing. Louise, a clothing designer for over 30 years, has sold her collections all over Canada, the United States, Britain and Europe, and she operates her own workshop in Brighton, an area on England’s South Coast.

The USC Fashion Camp, with two sessions held June 6 to 10 and June 12 to 17, will teach sewing skills to middle school and high school students. By the end of the week, students will have dressed themselves from head to toe all by hand. Some of the week’s lessons include wardrobe wisdom: what

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not to wear; pattern making; artful accessorizing; decorating fashionable flip-flops; and learning how to recycle, re-use and renovate your clothing.

Becky Blair from Inspiraled Jewelry and fashion photographer Jason Ayer are just some of the visiting professionals who will give presentations during the week.

On the last day, campers will

participate in a fashion show. Students from Paul Mitchell and Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology will do hair and make-up, and campers will model the outfits they created throughout the week.

For more information, please visit www.hrsm.sc.edu/fashioncamp or contact Louise Hudson at (803) 708-2772.

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Fight for Air Climb in Columbia

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re you up for a challenge to raise money for a good cause? The American Lung Association’s second annual Fight for Air Climb will be held at the Capitol Center in downtown Columbia on Saturday, May 21 at 8 a.m.

The venue, the tallest building in the state, will host hundreds of participants, including local firefighters, as they race all 479 steps to the 25th floor to raise funds and awareness in the fight against lung disease.

Each year, the American Lung Association in South Carolina hosts many events to raise money to fight lung disease and promote lung health. Nationwide, lung disease is the single leading cause of infant mortality and is the third leading cause of death, affecting one in six people. Further, statistics indicate more than 213,000 people were diagnosed in 2007 with lung cancer, 160,000 of whom died.

That is more than melanoma, breast, prostate, kidney and colon cancers combined. In 2009, it was estimated that 13.1 million adults have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and 24.6 million Americans have asthma, including 7.1 million children.

Th e F i g h t f o r A i r Cl i m b h a s brought together participants with diverse backgrounds from throughout the Midlands: lung cancer survivors, families of those who have lost loved ones, competitive climbers, those who just want to climb for fun and, of course, firefighters.

Firefighters are disproportionately affected by all types of lung disease. In the line of duty, they may experience exposure to gases, chemicals and other substances with potentially damaging effects to the respiratory system. The firefighters participate by climbing in full gear, which adds an extra 70 pounds of weight. The event also features competitive climbers aiming to beat the fastest time from last year, as well as fun-run climbers with a personal achievement goal of just reaching the top. w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

Join the fun and put your lungs to the ultimate test.

For more information visit w w w. f i g h t f o ra i r c l i m b . o r g o r c a l l (803) 779-5864.

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city scoop

Top Cake Contest Winner

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ongratulations to Amy N u n a m a k e r, t h e w i n n e r o f Co l u m b i a Me t r o p o l i t a n magazine’s Top Cake Contest. Amy’s crepe cake was a crowd pleaser at the Central Carolina Food and Wine Festival and received the most votes from the many tasters attending the event. Amy’s tasty recipe earned her some fantastic prizes: a $100 gift certificate to Mr. Friendly’s, a Corian cake plate from Solid Surfaces, a stylish apron from Tiffany’s and a two-year subscription to Columbia Metropolitan.

For Amy’s prize-winning recipe, visit www.columbiametro.com.

Amy Nunamaker, left, winner of the Top Cake contest, receives her prizes from Emily Tinch, editor of Columbia Metropolitan.

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local seen

f o n u r F K id Summ e r s

By Janey Goude

Photography by Jeff Amberg

J.B. Belk, 5, enjoys playing along the Cayce Riverwalk.

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hildren’s school schedules are chock full of activity: school, sports, dance, band, homework, baths and – when there’s time – sleep. As the nine-month regimen

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winds down, making plans to fill the long, hot South Carolina summer days can be a challenge. Columbia Metropolitan is here to take the heat off with low cost family fun options.

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photography courtesy of edventure photography courtesy of edventure

Visitors to EdVenture enjoy reading together.

photography courtesy of riverbanks zoo

At EdVenture’s Blooming Butterflies exhibit, Margaret Greene gets up close and personal with the winged beauties.

Back to Nature Columbia’s parks offer a vast resource of entertainment and beauty. Riverfront Park downtown boasts trails for walking or biking, picnic areas and plenty of open space for flying kites. The Cayce Riverwalk Park parallels the Congaree River, welcoming walkers, joggers, fishers and inline skaters. Irmo is home to Saluda Shoals, a beautiful 350acre riverfront park that combines education and recreation for outdoor adventures in water, on land or even on horseback. Visitors to Peachtree Rock Preserve near Swansea enjoy hiking among 306 acres of undisturbed, diverse ecosystems including desert terrain, bogs, streams and the only naturally occurring waterfall in the Midlands.

But hiking isn’t the only way to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Take a sitting tour of one of the top 10 canoe towns in America: paddle through Columbia on the Saluda, Congaree or Broad rivers.

An annual pass to The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden affords families the opportunity to walk and talk with the animals all summer long. Families can enjoy multiple summer trips – going for just an hour or two at a time – in the cool of the morning when the animals are more active.

Picnics are a fun way to eat out without breaking the budget.

Kids enjoy helping to choose and prepare the menus. Take a colorful blanket to sit on, a Frisbee, a hulahoop, bubbles for blowing, plenty of cold water to stay hydrated and the family dog. Riverfront Park, Riverwalk Park, Riverbanks Zoo, neighborhood parks and the State House grounds all make ideal picnic locations.

As the days heat up, look for playgrounds with shade. Some have water features to help you stay cool; others have natural streams and ponds with indigenous flora and fauna. Whether on the playground

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Resources to Plan your Summer Fun SC Great Outdoors Information about Columbia parks and activities www.scgreatoutdoors.com

photography courtesy of riverbanks zoo

Saluda Shoals www.icrc.net/SaludaShoals/Default.aspx

A trip to Riverbanks Zoo is a fun way to spend a summer morning.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden www.riverbanks.org South Carolina State Museum www.museum.state.sc.us EdVenture www.edventure.org Frankie’s Fun Park www.frankiesfunpark.com/columbia Monkey Joe’s www.monkeyjoes.com/Lexington Splash Pads http://columbia.parentsroom.org/outdoors/ water-fun/splash-pad Kids Bowl Free www.kidsbowlfree.com Home Depot Kids’ Workshops www.homedepot.com and search for Kid’s Workshops

photography courtesy of riverbanks zoo

Lowe’s Kids’ Workshops https://lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx Libraries www.lex.lib.sc.us www.myrcpl.com The Big Mo www.thebigmo.com Volunteer Match Find volunteer opportunities to match your interests www.volunteermatch.org Fruit Picking Site offers limited listings. Check phone book for more options. www.pickyourown.org/SC.htm

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Photography by Jeff Amberg

J.B. Belk flies a kite at the Cayce Riverwalk.

or at home, cool dirt feels good between little fingers and toes. Walk barefoot. Make mud pies. Dig for baby turtles. Catch tadpoles and minnows. Plant a rock garden. Grow a flower, vegetable or fruit garden.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Many churches host a VBS beginning in June. Younger kids will enjoy the activities, but older kids and parents can get in on the fun by volunteering. While not all churches sponsor a VBS, those that do usually welcome nonmembers as attendees and volunteers.

AMUSEMENT PARKS AND MUSEUMS Columbia has a host of indoor and outdoor entertainment venues, most of which offer group rates. Fun and learning intertwine at the S.C. State Museum and EdVenture, where hands-on exhibits engage young and old minds alike. The South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Museum is popular with the boys. For higher energy options, try Frankie’s Fun Park and Monkey Joe’s. Along with video games galore, Frankie’s Fun Park boasts a racetrack, a mini-golf course and laser tag. Monkey Joe’s offers something for everyone: an infant play area, inflatables for all ages and – to keep the parents entertained – massage chairs, Wi-Fi and large screen TVs. SPLISH SPLASH Summer isn’t summer without water fun. Columbia is home to 12 Splash Pads,

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including Saluda Splash at Saluda Shoals Park. Splash Pads are entertaining for all ages but are especially geared toward younger kids who haven’t earned their water wings. For children and adults with a bolder sense of adventure, Palmetto Falls Water Park at Fort Jackson offers daily rates and summer passes.

Old-fashioned, free water play is as close as the backyard. Run through the sprinkler or slip on a water slide. Grab a hose and have a water fight. Go high tech with water balloons or a water gun. Fill a bucket with some soapy water and wash the car. Get industrious and hold a neighborhood carwash and give the earnings to charity.

Reward hard work with a dip in the pool.

For those who don’t have a neighborhood or relative with a pool, get creative. Rent a hotel room for one night, using carwash proceeds of course! Hotels usually allow unlimited access to their amenities during the days of check-in and check-out, so a one night stay buys two full days of pool access.

BORN TO SHOP Some kids are born to shop. Shopping isn’t expensive; buying is expensive. Parents and kids who love to shop can pass the time looking at garage sales, flea markets and pet stores.

Baby, It’s Hot Outside Columbia certainly earns its nickname, “Famously Hot,” but residents can stay cool with indoor activities. At Regal Cinemas, families can enjoy free morning showings of previously released G, PG and PG-13 movies. “Kids Bowl Free” gives kids two games of free bowling every day for the entire summer. Bumpers and ramps make bowling fun for any age and ability.

For a minimal cost, an adult family pass gives up to four adults (family members and babysitters) two games of free bowling every day, too. Shoe rental is not included, but inexpensive shoes can be purchased at local retailers or online. Skate Station, USA in Lexington hosts family roller skating nights on Mondays and Thursdays.

The cost, which includes skate rental, is $3 per person or $6 per family for up to five family members.

Home Depot and Lowe’s offer kids’ workshops on Saturday mornings. These

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classes, designed for children ages 5 to 12, allow kids to create a variety of useful wood projects. Learning Express Toys has three locations in the greater Columbia area that offer free activities for children.

The library offers a summer-long themed reading program for youth, teens and adults. The youth program, “One World, Many Stories,” is for 18-month-olds through rising fifth-graders.

The teen program, “You are Here,” is for rising sixth- through twelfth-graders. The adult program, “Novel Destinations,” is for high school graduates and older. Incentives are given for completing reading goals, and a South Carolina State Reading Medal is awarded when a participant has completed the program. Libraries also offer story times, activities and

EdVenture’s hands-on exhibits engage young minds.

presentations throughout the summer for all ages. In addition to books, the library has a variety of child and adult movies, as well as online resources that the whole family can enjoy.

Yard Games Enjoy a friendly game of flag football, play a rousing game of H-O-R-S-E or get in a cardio workout with a family tennis match. Resurrect yard games of yesteryear like kick-the-can, kickball, freeze tag, Simon Says or red light green light. Blow bubbles and catch fireflies. End a day of outdoor adventure with a drive to Monetta, where the Big Mo is celebrating 60 years of drive-in movies under the stars. Enjoy your choice of

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new release double features for less than the cost of an evening movie ticket.

Make a Difference Parents and children can give back to the community by volunteering together. Explore existing interests or develop new passions while helping animals, cleaning the environment, feeding the homeless, visiting assisted living residents, shelving library books, serving meals on wheels, doing inventory at a food bank or thrift store, building a home with Habitat for Humanity or performing yard work for an elderly neighbor.

There are limitless options for ways to spend time together investing in meaningful causes.

Food Fun What could be better than edible fun? Strawberry picking (May) and blueberry picking (July) are favorite Columbia pastimes. Early morning is the best time to get out into the fields. Going hungry is encouraged since most farmers enforce a “taste as you go” policy.

Functional Fun One item on the summer to-do list has received an infusion of fun: children’s haircuts. For many children the concept of haircuts is frightening. Who wants to watch a part of themselves float helplessly to the floor? Kids’ hair cutteries have come to the rescue offering bright colorful characters, themed chairs, video games, televisions and prizes. Snip-its, Sports Clips, Sharkey’s Cuts 4 Kids and Hair Doodles are a few of the Columbia area salons customized for kids.

Field Trip Fun School’s out, but the fun of learning doesn’t have to stop. Many businesses provide field trips year round, happily accommodating individual families or small groups. Visit Jim Cannon Apiaries to see how Columbia-area bees make their honey. Learn about collards at Rawl Farms. Visit the police or fire department to hear about safety and show appreciation for those who provide protection. Watch beautiful art being created by skilled glass blowers at One Eared Cow. Find out why people have bought peanuts that are “Guaranteed Worst in Town” from Cromer’s since 1935. Discover South Carolina’s history at the Governor’s Mansion and State House.

Learning Together Summer is the perfect time to try new activities. Children and parents can take classes together at leisure centers, libraries and local businesses around the city. Class offerings include sewing, karate, computers, cooking, dance, writing, scrapbooking, cardmaking, cake decorating, flower arranging, gardening, dog training, guitar lessons, pottery and CPR. Many of these skills can then be practiced all year long for free or inexpensive fun.

Inside or outside, wet or dry, learning or playing, shopping or volunteering – Columbia is a great place to spend summertime.

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independent schools

Star Students

Local independent schools offer valuable educations

By Deena C. Bouknight As families all over Columbia and the surrounding area seek the best possible education for their children, new private schools are emerging, while established independent schools continue to strive to offer unique environments and academic opportunities. Columbia parents have more choices than ever before. This year, Columbia Metropolitan puts the spotlight on one student from each of the 20 area schools accredited by the South Carolina Independent School Association, in an effort to learn about each school’s distinct features.

The Barclay School www.barclayschool.org

(803) 629-6318 When Page Mensing realized last year that her daughter tested three grades below her actual grade because of issues with dyslexia, she began researching other educational alternatives. What she settled on for Lakin, 12, was The Barclay School, founded two years ago by Gillian Barclay-Smith, Ph.D. “What attracted me was that it was a small school with a multi-sensory, nurturing environment. They ride horseback to learn balance or swim to learn coordination. They deal with the whole child and use a strong, steady curriculum that not only teaches but grows their self-esteem.”

Gillian, who was born in England, educated at the University of Düsseldorf in Germany, and worked as a teacher and administrator in a variety of settings, says, “We expose children to as many different experiences as possible to learn what will inspire them.” She says she learned early on that the one-size-fits-all style of educating does not work … nor should it.

About Lakin, Gillian comments: “She is luminescent. She has come to us and just flourished. We’re a kinder, gentler, hands-on school, and our teachers have an enthusiasm for teaching that rubs off on students.”

“It is a fantastic place,” says Lakin. “We all treat each other like brothers and sisters.

We share many laughs together all the time. We drink tea in the mornings. I don’t know any other school that does that.”

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“Before Lakin came to The Barclay School, she could not spell and she did not want to pick up a book,” says her mother.

“Now she is spelling well, and she’s reading all the time. If I had to guess now, I would say she’s above her grade level.”

pursuing a future as a math teacher because of the way his pre-calculus and calculus teacher, Emery Nickerson, inspired him. “He’s been a big influence on me. What really sets Ben Lippen apart are the teachers who care about you and your grades.”

Ben Lippen School www.benlippen.com

Bethel Learning Centers

(803) 807-4000 Ben Lippen has been a presence in Columbia since 1988, when the school for missionary children was moved from Asheville, N.C., and became a premier Christian school for both international and local Columbia students. Thomas Fisher began attending Ben Lippen at the beginning of his sophomore year. He transferred from a public school and admits to being apprehensive about the transition.

However, he says, “I feel like I’ve been here my whole life.”

Thomas became involved at Ben Lippen as vice president of the student council his junior year and as president his senior year. He has also been on the cross country, track and football teams.

Yet, the greatest benefit, he admits, has been his interaction with teachers, coaches and students of faith.

“We’ll have a prayer request in class, and you know that everyone genuinely cares about each other. Everyone rallies around those who are in need. When students have had sick parents or have lost parents, the faith of the people here is real. There is also a lot of school spirit for sporting events and homecoming.”

Now a senior, Thomas says he is

www.bethelcdc.net

(803) 779-1816 Destiny Dawkins has attended Bethel Learning Centers since she was six months old. Now 10 and in the fifth grade, she is making history because she has been there longer than any other student. For Destiny’s graduation from the school, which only offers classes through the fifth grade, her mother June Dawkins Robinson will have a celebration at the State Museum for Destiny, her friends and teachers.

June says Destiny has thrived at Bethel. She plays the piano, sings, dances at Columbia City Jazz, speaks Spanish and is a top student academically. “When she started there, we right away felt it was a school of excellence. Rev. Dr. Ronnie E. Brailsford founded the school in 1995 and his wife has worked with Destiny’s talents, teaching her voice lessons. Destiny created her own CD demo under the direction of Rev. Carolyn Brailsford.”

“My teachers challenge and encourage me to strive for excellence,” says Destiny.

“They make all of us feel special and loved. They let us know each day that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. The teachers tell us that we can do anything we put our minds to.” m ay 2011

Destiny has also put her mind to reading, devouring over 500 books this past summer. She will work with a talent agency acting, singing, dancing and modeling during her summer break.

Newman helped Carl transform from a typical, uncertain teenager into an incredibly focused and remarkably responsible young man,” say his parents, Julie and Carl Joiner, Jr.

Cardinal Newman School

Columbia Jewish Day School www.cjdssc.com (803) 782-1831 Columbia Jewish Day School has encouraged Maya Ortiz’s compassionate heart. When the kids at the school found out that one of their teachers passed away from cancer, Maya was especially affected, s ays her mother, Jacqueline.

“She talked to the other teachers about going on a cancer walk to raise money for Palmetto Health’s cancer research, and she organized a school bake sale, at which parents purchased goods. She and the other kids also went around their neighborhoods and talked about the teacher and why they were raising money. They made over $1,000. Maya just goes out of her way to show others she cares … even animals.”

Maya has attended the school for most of her elementary school years. She has enjoyed history and math most. “I work at the school as an assistant teacher for the kindergarten class,” Jacqueline says, “and I see first-hand all the love and positive influence that Columbia Jewish Day School possesses. This is also a reason why Maya has done so well and continues to do well. The staff and friends are superb. Maya is so comfortable here because teachers are so involved in the students’ lives.”

She adds, “The small class sizes make a huge difference. It’s a beautiful place, and the teachers are accessible all the time.

Maya is very happy here.”

www.cnhs.org

(803) 782-2814 William Carl Joiner, I I I, began attending Cardinal Newman in middle school and became involved in a variety of activities, including tutoring, football, wrestling, Quiz Bowl, student council and band, and he has been a Civil Air Patrol-Squadron Cadet Commander and president of WINGS Student Mentoring Program.

Now a senior, Carl has an unofficial fan club: his teachers. “Carl is by far the hardest working young man that I have been associated with,” says Eric Goff, who teaches honors and AP biology and human genetics and is the varsity wrestling coach.

“He has been part of the wrestling program for the last four years … our team considers him a leader. Carl is always the first person to practice and the last person to leave. He is a perfect example of what every young man should be.”

“I have had the pleasure of teaching Carl for three years in band. He is one of those kids that everyone will remember because of his honesty, integrity, drive and desire to succeed,” says Drew Loeffler.

“Carl is the epitome of quiet strength,” says Cara Condra, English teacher. “He leads by example. I have witnessed this attribute countless times.” When in New York City for a Model United Nations’ convention, instead of continuing sightseeing as the afternoon drew to a close, Carl chose to attend afternoon Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

“Carl is an endangered species, a true gentleman and a scholar,” adds Sister Eileen Quinn, calculus teacher.

“Carl is what we hope every young man at our school can be. He lives his faith through this actions and words towards others. He is a very quiet testament to the love of Christ. As a teacher, I will never forget him because of his purity of heart and love for every person he meets,” says Elizabeth Loeffer, department of theology.

Carl has received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, where he will attend college. “Cardinal 24 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

Covenant Christian Academy www.covenantchristian academyonline.com (803) 796-2860 DeAnna Dickerson began attending Covenant Christian Academy for fouryear-old kindergarten and is now in the sixth grade. She has been a standout student at the school not only for what she has achieved academically, but also for how she has endured an extreme trial. A few years ago,

her mother passed away.

“We all have hard times dealing with losses, but this school has really helped to strengthen us,” says her father, Frank.

“There is such a good atmosphere of faith in Christianity, which we have fostered at home. They’ve provided spiritual guidance, offered prayers and helped keep our mind on what God has done and what He will do.”

Frank says his wife was alive to see DeAnna receive a Fruit of the Spirit award in third grade. She was awarded it again in fourth grade, and she also has won the High Academic award three times. She is a talented speller, recently advancing to regionals in the spelling bee, and she also likes to read and enjoys her Bible class. Her father plans to see her graduate from Covenant Christian, which he says benefits his daughter because of its small class sizes, great teachers, and excellent Biblical program.

DeAnna says, “I’m a Christian. I sing on the praise team and at talent shows, I play the piano and I was the lead person in two of the Christmas plays. My favorite things to do are sing, design fashion wear, cook and attend chapel. My motto is: Love everyone.”

Covenant Classical Christian School www.covenantcs.org (803) 787-0225 Will Gasaway says that Covenant Classical has been every bit a family to him, most especially during his senior year.

When his parents had to relocate to California, after his mother had worked at the school for 22 years, Kathy and Jeff Peckham immediately volunteered to be Will’s senior-year family so that he would not have to leave the school he had always known. Kathy is a teacher at Covenant Classical, while one son, Andrew, coaches the basketball team. Her other son, Jonathan, is Will’s good friend.

“It was just such a natural fit,” says Will’s father, Mike. “It was difficult for Teresa and me to leave him his senior year, but we knew the Peckhams would care for him.”

“The Peckhams are like my second family,” says Will. “They’re as much involved with me as my parents have been.” Plus, the transition has been helpful in preparing Will for being away m ay 2011

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from his parents while in college.

Will plans to pursue a degree in biology and then apply for medical school. He feels that Covenant Classical has prepared him well for his future. Besides coaching basketball, Andrew Peckham has been a mentor to Will. “He’s young and offers advice on college and about life,” says Will.

“I’ve had such good friends at this school who have grown up with me. We’re a tightknit group.”

Will adds, “There is absolutely a strong focus on Christ at the school. We try to incorporate Christianity into every aspect of the curriculum. This year, I took an apologetics class and it challenged me in own my faith.”

Glenforest School www.glenforest.org

(803) 796-7622 When Joshua Simmons was in the third grade, his mother, Pat Ellison, began to notice that he learned differently. Eventually, she discovered he was challenged with dyslexia, so she moved him into Glenforest School in the seventh grade. There, teachers and staff are equipped to encourage students based on their individual learning styles, whether due to dyslexia, ADHD, autism or other distinctions.

After attending Glenforest for a short time, Joshua’s mother observed a big change.

“He had always been nervous at public school because he was trying so hard to be like the other students so they wouldn’t know he learned differently,” she says. “At Glenforest, he has been able to relax and learn instead of concentrating on making people think he didn’t have struggles.”

Pat says teachers and coaches at Glenforest have invested in Joshua, who is a senior this year. They have mentored him and encouraged him in such a way that not only has he maintained a strong B average, but he also has developed a love for math and science. Currently, he is deciding among at least five different colleges, at which he will play basketball, his number one interest.

Pat says basketball at Glenforest gave Joshua not only an outlet for his energy, but confidence as well. She feels that if he had stayed in public school and tried to play, his struggling grades – due to his learning challenges – would have kept him off the court. “That would have just been another frustration,” she says.

As Glenforest’s senior guard, Joshua 26 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

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was selected to compete in the A-AA SCISA vs. GISA All-Star Game. The game features outstanding seniors from both the South Carolina and Georgia independent school association schools. According to Shayna Simoneaux, who handles media for Glenforest, “Josh was promoted to the varsity program as an eighth grader and has held his own. This year he received his third straight Region Play of the Year honors, and he finished his career with 2,780 points.”

“Playing in the All-Star Games has given me a chance to play with some of the best competition in the SCISA,” says Joshua.

The opportunity also afforded him exposure with many college scouts.

Hammond School www.hammondschool.org

(803) 776-0295 When the Polans family moved to Columbia from Connecticut a few years ago, they searched for a school for their d a u g h t e r, Mo r g a n , and son, Zach, that offered excellent academic programs, extracurricular activities and a true sense of community. According to Chrissy Polans, they found all that in Hammond.

“Although moving during the high school years was challenging,” says Morgan, “I immediately became involved in the Hammond community.” Morgan challenges herself academically by taking four AP classes and one honors class. Her GPA is 5.0, and she was inducted into The Cum Laude Society. Morgan also holds elected positions in Student Council, Community Service Club and the Spanish Club.

Morgan is also on the varsity ladies golf team and is involved in Peer Mentoring.

Already, Morgan has received a $1,000 scholarship, the MLK Dream Keeper Scholarship Award, which she won in January. The award was for the non-profit she started last year called My Art Project Inc., which teaches visual art projects to children after school, for no charge, at the Boys and Girls Club of the Midlands, Richland County Recreation Commission and Sistercare.

“I have benefitted tremendously by being a Hammond student,” says Morgan. “When I think of my relationships at Hammond, it feels like a second family. Many of the teachers and staff encourage me academically and also to be a leader. They are truly my mentors inside and outside the classroom. It w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 27

doesn’t feel as though I have only been a part of Hammond for two years.”

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School www.heathwood.org

(803) 765-2309 K a r s o n K o ch e r, a j u n i o r a t Heathwood, knows all about overcoming obstacles – and not just with the pole she uses in pole vaulting.

In fifth grade, Karson sustained a brain hemorrhage related to a brain tumor. This affected her cognitive ability, according to her father, Dr. Gary Kocher, and resulted in what will be a lifetime of recovery. The Kochers decided that, since the brain hemorrhage caused the dynamics of Karson’s social structure to be disrupted, she should have a fresh start at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School beginning with her freshman year.

“Since attending HHES, she has been welcomed by new friends; this has allowed for a more normal interpersonal interaction,” Gary says. “H H ES emphasizes an all-inclusive atmosphere, which begins with the administration and continues at the student level.”

He adds, “As a father, I have witnessed a transformation in Karson. She has been accepted as a member of her peer group without prejudice. Her attitude is positive and refreshing. Although the college preparatory curriculum is demanding, the personal interactions of the teachers have mitigated her difficulties.”

During the holidays last year, Karson suffered yet another intracranial bleed that required surgery. Gary says, “The entire HHES family responded with Christian concern that made a terrible situation a heartening reminder that God puts people in your path to lessen your pain. We have witnessed the Heathwood family experience and are blessed to be a member.”

Heritage Christian Academy www.heritage-christian.com

(803) 951-3901 Anna Croft is the third of the Croft children to attend Heritage Christian Academy. Now in the 6th grade, she has thrived during her time there, according to her parents, Jean and Jay. “I like that they 28 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

reinforce what we already teach at home … Christian principles academically, spiritually and morally,” says Jean. “We read passages from the Bible every night that the school assigns, and then the teachers go over that reading with them in school. On Fridays there is a chapel service, and sometimes guest pastors are brought in to speak.” Small classroom sizes mean that teachers have time to spend with the students.

Jean says her daughter has grown up with her friends, which accounts for the strong bonds that the students have with one another. “Everyone is nice. There is no bullying. Instead, they’re rooting for each other.”

Anna is her class’s student council representative. She loves to read and enjoys tennis and basketball. “Art class and literature are my favorite,” says Anna.

“And, since it’s a small school, everyone is your friend.”

Jubilee Academy www.heartworksministry.org

(803) 787-3009 Educator Sandee Hensley founded the Heartworks Ministry in 1999 as an afterschool opportunity for underprivileged students. In 2005, he ministry added a school, Jubilee Academy, which serves the needs of a handful of committed students.

Freshman Robert Terrell began attending Jubilee Academy six years ago.

The Christ-centered curriculum approach enables him to pursue his goal of one day being a missionary.

“We do devotionals together every morning, and all day long we are God-focused,” he says. “Going to Jubilee has made me much more aware of how the world works, especially through the lens of Christianity … what the world wants versus what God wants for us.”

Robert is striving to achieve academically with such programs as Saxon Math, Institute for Excellence in Writing and LifePac. He was also accepted into the Governor’s School summer program in Greenville last summer to pursue his interest in acting. He has applied again for this year’s program. He has performed for Excelsior Academy, Divine Playhouse and Shandon Baptist Church, where he attends and is an intern under the youth pastor there.

“What’s great about Jubilee is that I’m able to get a hands-on education,” says

Robert. “We’ve taken great field trips to Williamsburg, Yorktown, Jamestown and the Creation Museum. I’m able to mentor and be a role model to the younger kids at Jubilee. Here, it’s a safe, comfortable environment where teachers are like family.”

Sandra says, “These kids are working hard to overcome so many generational poverty issues. It will be a lifelong journey.

They’re going up hills and over bumps.

But what we try to do here is to train disciples. God has given us the resources to do that … to be positive influences on these lives.”

New Heights School www.newheightsschool.us (803) 798-5138 Lauren and Mark Pittman are happy with the way New Heights has challenged their daughter, Shelby, who has been attending the school for four years. The sixth-grader has participated in state spelling bees and enjoys Bible studies and acting. Last year she participated in a class project, which involved a school newspaper that she helped design and write with her class.

“Shelby has flourished in the small classroom settings,” says her mother, Lauren. “The teachers know the students well and are able to give specific and personal attention. We also like the interaction of different age groups together, allowing her and all students to be able to relate to children of all ages.”

Lauren says her daughter has grown in her leadership skills and has become better organized with schoolwork, homework and studying. “We love the fact that she is receiving an education that is grounded in the word of God, and we’ve seen her grow spirituality. The biblical worldview that we are trying to teach her at home is reinforced five days a week at school, which is an important aspect to us. We feel the academics here are challenging and encouraging her to strive to do her best.”

She adds, “Shelby is always excited about what she has learned or what they have done for the day. We love the closeknit feel of all the students knowing one another and caring about each other.”

Richard Winn Academy www.richardwinn.org

(803) 635-5494 The opportunity to be heavily m ay 2011

involved in sports has been a plus for Alexandra “Alex” Maass. The junior a t R i ch a r d Wi n n Academy, who has been attending since five-year-old kindergarten, currently plays volleyball and basketball and has played softball as well.

“I have always loved sports and have played them ever since I was little, always attending RWA summer sports camps,” she says.

Alex is a member of the Rotary Interact Club, an officer in the Senior Beta Club and treasurer of student government. She is also a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and an ambassador for Richard Winn, meaning she gives tours of the school to potential new students.

“I feel like I have practically lived at this school because I’m always here, whether it is for a fundraiser, a sporting event or classes. Something special that I was a part of in the eighth grade is the butterfly garden we planted in memory of RWA students who have passed away. We modeled it after the butterfly garden in the book The Red Kayak.”

“I honestly feel prepared for college and really realize how blessed I am to have been a student here. I feel like I’m a member of a large family and the friends I have here are for life. I know I can count on them, as well as the teachers and the staff.”

Sandhills School www.sandhillsschool.org

(803) 695-1400 Hunter Allen was not failing while in public school, but he was struggling.

Because he is severely dyslexic, reading was a challenge, according to his mother, Patricia.

“He was in the fourth grade and already wanting to drop out of school,” she says. “We hired tutors for him and held him back a year. It was really affecting his self-esteem.”

The Allens learned about Sandhills School through one of Hunter’s tutors and enrolled him in the fifth grade. The turnaround in Hunter’s demeanor was almost instantaneous.

“He loved it so much right away,” says Patricia. “We were so grateful for how it changed our child for the better. They made him realize that he was smart … that he just learned differently.” w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

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Patricia points out that the staff at Sandhills genuinely cares and teachers there helped him determine the areas in which he can excel.

“They push, but in a loving, encouraging way,” she says.

Hunter, who is now in the eleventh grade, says he enjoys all the opportunities at Sandhills, such as establishing a garden in the back of the school to learn agriculture or participating in soccer, basketball and baseball. “And the class sizes are very small, which means the teachers are really there to help you and care about you being the best you can be, getting good grades and succeeding in life.”

St. John Neumann Catholic School www.sjncatholic.com (803) 788-1367 Kaitlyn Cote has attended St. John Neumann Catholic School for the past eight years. The biggest plus, explain her parents, is the intimate atmosphere.

“It’s a family environment,” says her mother, Wendi. “That was a big draw. Being in this small school

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environment has made her comfortable with things like public speaking.”

“What I like best about the school is how the teachers encourage me every day and challenge me to do new things to help me reach my full potential,” Kaitlyn says.

“This includes extra help sessions after school, joining team competitions outside of school and participating in school plays.”

Wendi believes that the curriculum at St. John Neumann is well thought out and selected. Plus, it is advanced enough to be challenging for students. “I feel like there are opportunities to do activities that she wouldn’t have had a chance to do in other school environments. She will be prepared when she leaves St. John Neumann.”

Since St. John Neumann only goes up to eighth grade, Kaitlyn will be attending Cardinal Newman in the fall. “The thing I will miss the most about this school is having the little kids look up to me. It will be especially hard because my little brother is in preschool here, and I’ll miss seeing him in the hallway,” she says.

Kaitlyn plays soccer and has participated in volunteer work with her father, David, such as Meals on Wheels. “She’s really just a good student who exemplifies what a student can be – kind and caring,” Wendi says.

St. Joseph Catholic School www.stjosdevine.com

(803) 254-6736 As a sixth grader, Cam Tringali is already an award-winning student. In 2009, he was chosen for the Silver Bucket Award at St. Joseph Catholic School.

Given by Principal Rose Tindall to a student who demonstrates exemplary character, the award is named for the book Have You Filled Your Bucket Today by Carol McLoud and encourages positive behavior as children see how easy and rewarding it is to express kindness, appreciation and love on a daily basis.

Rose says, “Cam is always polite, respectful, kind and helpful to both students and faculty. He truly demonstrates Gospel values.”

“The Christian values Cam has been taught on a daily basis have been instrumental in making him the young man he is,” says his mother, Melissa.

“I’m so glad to be able to learn about Jesus in school,” says Cam. Rose adds that Cam is also wellrounded. He has been attending St. Joseph w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

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Hammond School

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School

Heritage Christian Academy

Jubilee Academy

New Heights School

Richard Winn Academy

Sandhills School

St. John Neumann Catholic School

St. Joseph Catholic School

St. Peters Catholic School

Timmerman School

Covenant Christian Academy

Columbia Jewish Day School

Covenant Classical Christian School

Cardinal Newman

Glenforest School

Bethel Learning Centers

Ben Lippen School

Barclay School

Apples to Apples

since first grade, is a member of the Beta Club, has participated in mock trial and plays football and baseball. He also enjoys art, math and practicing for the class play.

“He strives to do his best while encouraging others to do their best around him,” Rose says. “He is a wonderful role model for our younger students.”

SPECIAL EDUCATION

ADD/ADHD

St. Peters Catholic School www.stpeters-catholic-school.org (803) 252-8285 St. Peters Catholic School was a natural fit for sixth-grader Alyssa Pittman, who has been a student there since fouryear-old kindergarten.

“It’s a small school,” says her mother, Suzanne. “The student teacher ratio is good. Students get a lot of attention and the teachers are all kind and caring.

It’s that kind of atmosphere that is like a family because the students have all grown up together. Even the parents are close. We often invite one another to birthday parties and get together during school activities.”

“I love learning about history and things of the past,” says Alyssa. “When we studied the Egyptians, we did a project where we made sculptures of Egyptian jars.

In cooking class, we made different snacks.

I really like all the teachers here.”

The Timmerman School www.timmermanschool.com (803) 782-2748 Leslie Withycombe describes The Timmerman School as “small enough to be personable to everyone, yet big enough to offer a variety of activities.”

Her son, Owen, is an eighth grader who has been attending Timmerman since four-year-old kindergarten.

“As a parent, I know I can pick up the telephone and call Liz Jordan, the principal, directly with any issues,” Leslie says. “She interacts daily with the students there. Plus, there is a traditional atmosphere at Timmerman that includes saying the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer at various school functions.”

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Developmentally delayed Hearing impaired Learning disabled Speech therapy Occupationally disabled Visually impaired English as a second language Academically gifted Artistically gifted ENRICHMENT

Band Strings Choir Math and science team Debate team Tutoring Intramurals Boys’ sports program Girls’ sports program French Spanish Other languages SAT/ACT program Summer program HEALTH & SAFETY

On-site child care On-site nurse On-site guidance counselor

Owen has participated in community service projects through the student council, is on the math, spelling and Quiz Bowl teams, and is a member of both the National Jr. Beta Club and the National Jr. Honor Society. He also played soccer for Timmerman and is a year-round swimmer with Carolina Aquatics. Another passion is acting.

“The class work and homework may be tough and time-consuming, but I can see very good study habits that Owen has gained that he will need in high school and college,” says Leslie. Most importantly, she says, “The small, family atmosphere was important to his father, Allen, and me, and it has seemed to have a good impact on Owen’s development.” m ay 2011

In Their Own Words ...

Ben Lippen School Monticello Road Campus pre-K through 12th grade 7401 Monticello Road Columbia, SC 29203 St. Andrews Road Campus pre-K through 5th grade 500 St. Andrews Road Columbia, SC 29210 (803) 807-4000 www.benlippen.com Rising to the Peaks of Christian Scholarship B e n L i p p e n S ch o o l i s a n interdenominational college and “calling” preparatory school of nearly 800 students in grades Pre-K through 12. Ben Lippen o­ffers challenging academics, a wide variety of co-curricular activities, spiritual and social training. Ben Lippen programs are comparable to those of larger schools, but also foster a community experience where students and families are known by name.

Academic Excellence Beginning in preschool, students are challenged to become critical thinkers and problem solvers. In middle school, students continue to build the foundation crucial to succeeding in the challenging high school curriculum. High school students are challenged through honors, Advanced Placement and Dual (college) Enrollment classes. Ben Lippen ensures 100 percent of its high school students are accepted into college. The class of 2010 received more than $4.5 million in renewable scholarships.

Biblical Foundation To prepare students to be critical thinkers, and to prepare them for God’s calling on their lives, Ben Lippen integrates biblical truth into every discipline and activity.

Multicultural Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of Ben Lippen is the enriching cross-cultural experience that comes with having high school students from around the world live on campus and attend classes with day students. Resident students make up approximately 20 percent of the high school population.

Faculty Over 60 percent of the Ben Lippen faculty members have obtained or are working toward an advanced degree. Ths school’s teaching philosophy emphasizes w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

mentoring and personal relationships.

Faculty members serve as club sponsors, coaches and advisors, as well as classroom instructors. Most importantly, each teacher must make a personal statement of faith in Jesus Christ.

Activities Confidence, personal interests and talents are developed through a wide array of co-curricular opportunities in academics, arts, athletics, leadership and service. From the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to the math team, from the yearbook staff to the choir, Ben Lippen offers students many opportunities to develop spiritually, academically and socially outside the classroom. Athletics are also a big part of campus life. Student athletes are encouraged to utilize their God-given talents to the fullest while displaying Christian character both on and off the playing field. There are nearly 40 athletic teams at Ben Lippen, with many athletes annually recognized as All-State and All-Region players.

Cardinal Newman School 4701 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29206 (803) 782-2814 www.cnhs.org Forming Lives of Excellence in the Catholic Tradition: Spiritual Excellence, Academic Excellence, Athletic Excellence.

With a rich 150 year history, Cardinal Newman School continues to make sure every day is a day to witness amazing transformations as they help children grow into remarkable young adults, great intellectuals and conscientious citizens of the world.

The school’s dedicated faculty members are committed to providing an exceptional academic and spiritually-based curriculum, enhanced by dynamic athletic and arts programs, to students in grades 7 - 12.

Students will experience the benefits of a Cardinal Newman education long after they’ve exited its halls.

Spiritual Excellence Cardinal Newman School allows students to openly express their spirituality through courses in theology and participation in the KAIROS and class retreats. Through a full-time director SPE C IAL AD V ERTISIN G SE C TION

independent schools

of ministry, the school provides multiple opportunities for students to grow in an atmosphere focused on Christian gospel values. Students learn that God is present in every aspect of life, both inside the classroom and out.

In addition, community service and education that emphasizes strong social justice teaching, beliefs, and actions are a major part of the core of the school’s theology program.

Academic Excellence In 2010, 99 percent of graduates went on to post-secondary education; 80 percent of graduates received merit-based college scholarships totaling $5.7 million; 14 percent of the class were named Palmetto Fellows; and one student was a National Merit Scholarship Finalist.

The School’s 2011 graduating class is accomplishing great things, with 20 percent of the class achieving SAT composite scores above 1370, and more than 50 percent of the class is graduating with at least six semester hours of college credit.

Athletic Excellence Th e S ch o o l i s c o m m i t t e d t o providing a well-rounded experience for its students by providing a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Cardinal Newman student athletes have won both team and individual State Championships in Softball and Swimming – with the wrestling team winning its third consecutive state championship and the competition cheerleading team winning its sixth consecutive state championship this year. In addition, many student athletes are All-Region and All-State players.

This year, two Cardinal Newman student athletes signed to play their sports on the collegiate level.

Accreditations & Associations • National Catholic Educational Association • S.C. Independent Schools Association • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Covenant Classical Christian School 3100 Covenant Road Columbia SC 29204 (803) 787-0225 www.covenantcs.org Covenant Classical Christian School is a private, K5-12 coeducational school conveniently located near Forest Acres.

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With a student body of approximately 130, Covenant features small class-sizes, affordable tuition and a biblical worldview in a nurturing environment that many parents call “the next best thing to homeschool.” Covenant offers a Christ-centered classical curriculum to equip students in pursuing God’s individual calling for their lives. Classical, Christian education is a time-tested approach to teaching children the art of thinking while cultivating welltaught, well-read, well-spoken people of faith who are prepared for life in the modern world. In addition to rigorous academics, Covenant offers a wellrounded experience with sports, fine arts and other extra-curricular opportunities.

Covenant is accredited by Christian Schools International and the South Carolina Independent School Association.

Hammond School 854 Galway Lane Columbia SC 29209 (803) 776-0295 www.hammondschool.org The fact that Hammond School is the largest independent school in the Columbia area comes as no surprise. They take academics seriously, and their track record proves it. They work hard, and they play hard as well. Hammond prides itself on cultivating a lifelong love of learning while encouraging students to search for their unique gifts and talents.

Hammond School is proud of its progressive curriculum at all grade levels, always seeking to incorporate the best techniques of a traditional program and those supported by thorough research.

The hallmark of Hammond’s curriculum is its global emphasis. To that end, they not only offer expansive community service opportunities, but also engage students in multi-cultural study. Hammond is successful in bringing the world to its students and its students to the world.

• The average SAT score is 1225.

• 13 percent of the class of 2010 were named Palmetto Fellows.

• 2010 academic scholarship offerings topped $4.6 million, with over 84 percent offered academic scholarships.

• The class of 2010 was extended offers of acceptance to 84 institutions in 21 states and the District of Columbia.

• Hammond’s football team made South 34 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

Carolina history as the only school, regardless of division, to ever achieve five consecutive state championship titles.

• The drama department was selected to perform at the 2008 Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

• The Select Ensemble choir regularly performs at home and abroad, this year traveling Eastern Europe.

Heathwood Hall Episcopal School 3000 South Beltline Boulevard Columbia SC 29201 (803) 765-2309 www.heathwood.org Our Mission A college preparatory school with a strong Episcopal heritage of stewardship, inclusivity and respect for the dignity of every human being, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School walks with students, challenging them to balance the highest standards of scholarship, citizenship and servant leadership. Through the richness of community, students at Heathwood learn, grow and worship as they cultivate and celebrate the power of the individual mind, the soundness of body and the value of a joyful and spiritual life.

Inspiring Generations One Life at a Time Established in 1951, Heathwood Hall serves a unique role in the Midlands as an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school with a strong Episcopal heritage. Heathwood Hall is committed to knowing every student and fostering his or her achievement from nursery school (beginning at age 3) through grade 12. Within the Midlands, Heathwood is known for its pioneering tradition, programmatic excellence, lauded faculty, commitment to its mission and Episcopal identity, and keeping children at the center of all that they do.

The Difference Heathwood Hall continues to earn national recognition as a leader in educational initiatives. The curriculum is enriched by international experiences, outdoor and environmental education, related arts, the integration of the latest technology and advanced skills in science, languages and problem solving.

Heathwood Hall is leading students beyond personal and geographic boundaries and preparing them for global citizenship. At Heathwood Hall, 100 percent college acceptance and SPE C IAL AD V ERTISIN G SE C TION

matriculation is an expectation. Heathwood Hall graduates are extremely competitive candidates for a variety of college scholarships. Members of the Class of 2010 earned acceptances to Claremont McKenna College, Notre Dame, NYU, University of South Carolina Honors College, Vanderbilt University and Wake Forest, to name a few.

Spiritual Foundation Community service and spiritual life, including daily prayer and weekly worship in the school’s chapel, challenge young people to act on their faith through service.

Heathwood Hall was the first independent school in the Midlands to require community service for graduation. The Heathwood Hall Honor Code provides the foundation for campus life for all students.

Sandhills School 1500 Hallbrook Drive Columbia SC 29209 (803) 695-1400 www.sandhillsschool.org Sandhills School is a vibrant, independent school for bright students in the first through 12th grades. Sandhills School is the only Orton- Gillingham accredited college-preparatory school in the Midlands and is one of just nine Orton-Gillingham accredited schools in the nation. Sandhills School provides a successful learning environment for students who learn differently. Its students rediscover the joy of learning through curriculum, electives and international travel opportunities based on their interests, strengths and goals. Sandhills admits students with average to superior intelligence with a diagnosed languagebased learning difference or attention struggles, including dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia. They develop the potential of each student by fostering intellectual curiosity, principled character and a commitment to serve. Sandhills recently expanded to include a college preparatory high school. Its inaugural senior class will graduate from its fully accredited high school program in 2012.

Sandhills School has been in operation for over 40 years, providing an established, proven program with small class sizes and individualized instruction tailored specifically to each student’s needs. Intelligent students seek Sandhills to overcome their difficulties with m ay 2011

reading, writing and math. Sandhills uses the Orton- Gillingham approach, which is a brain-based, research proven instructional program for intelligent youngsters struggling to acquire reading and writing skills. Its students are actively engaged in the learning process through participation in a hands-on, multisensory curriculum. Sandhills actively incorporates the auditory, tactile and kinesthetic modalities and integrates the latest educational technology in all of its learning.

Sandhills gives students the tools and academic skills to be successful in college and beyond.

Sandhills capitalizes on the students’ strengths while removing the traditional obstacles of learning. Its highly trained faculty members are specialists in the field of learning differences and hold advanced degrees and certifications.

A strong partnership between faculty and parents is an integral part in the educational growth of students. Its students thrive in a nurturing environment with a comprehensive and individualized approach to their development and instruction.

Sandhills is located off Garners Ferry Road on 22 partially wooded acres, and hosts a pond, wilderness trails, wildlife, protected beehives, sports fields and a playground.

St. John Neumann Catholic School 721 Polo Road Columbia SC 29223 (803) 788-1367 www.sjncatholic.com St. John Neumann Catholic School is dedicated to the spiritual, cultural, social, moral and intellectual development of students of all faiths. The school offers a progressive yet nurturing environment for preschool through sixth grade. Every student is assessed and given tools and instruction that help him or her reach full academic potential while developing a strong and compassionate moral compass.

Differentiated Instruction Every child’s journey of learning is unique. Through Differentiated Instruction (D.I.), St. John Neumann meets students at their academic level while working to advance all children to reach their greatest potential, even allowing qualified children to advance w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

grades for math and/or reading. Its faculty averages more than 100 hours of D.I. training each year. They also have a dedicated staff specialist that facilitates this training and offers continual support and resources for all teachers. That means each child will get just what he or she needs in every class and in every grade.

Discovery Center Under the guidance of a full-time certified teacher, the Discovery Center provides enrichment and reinforcement programs that meet the needs of all students.

St. John Neumann’s enrichment programs challenge children beyond even the differentiated classroom instruction while its reinforcement programs offer opportunities to learn through varied instructional approaches and hands-on activities.

Awards St. John Neumann is award winning!

A National Blue Ribbon Award was earned for having test scores in the top 10 percent of the entire nation on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS), a nationally normed test. The school received the highest rating in all categories by the Southern Association of Colleges and School (SACS) Accreditation. St. John Neumann has also been given the International Alliance for Invitational Education (IAIE) Award and (IAIE) Fidelity Award. This international award is for schools that are so inviting that they create a world where each child can develop and grow beyond his or her dreams. The principal, Barbara Cole was also named National Principal of the Year by the U.S. Deptartment of Education.

St. John Neumann is where a lifelong love of learning begins. A favorite song is “Yes, You Can Do It” … and each child believes this. Come see why SJN is a place where Children Experience Success every day!

Saint Joseph Catholic School 3700 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29205 (803) 254-6736 www.stjosdevine.com Inspiring minds. Building Character.

Living faith.

Saint Joseph Catholic School offers children of parishioners and the non-Catholic community a challenging curriculum of academic study and spiritual formation in a safe and loving SPE C IAL AD V ERTISIN G SE C TION

environment (K4-6th grades).

Inspiring minds Highly qualified teachers combined with low student-teacher ratios allow students to thrive. In addition to stateof-the-art video and voice projection technology, every classroom is equipped with a SMART board ™.

Building character Woven into each school day are chances for students to grow from leadership and service opportunities. Saint Joseph’s wants to be sure their students are prepared to meet the opportunities and challenges they will face in the future.

Living faith Saint Joseph’s provides an atmosphere of tolerance, trust and love, and it acknowledges and celebrates the faiths of all of its students. The goal of Saint Joseph’s is to make every family feel welcome in its church and in the school.

St. Peter’s 1035 Hampton Street Columbia SC 29201 (803) 252-8285 www.stpeters-catholic-school.org St. Peter’s Catholic School is the longest continuous running Catholic school in the state of South Carolina. A ministry of St. Peter’s Church since 1852, the school serves students in grades K4 through sixth grade. Its education is based on faith, family, diversity, compassion and academic excellence.

St. Peter’s has held its accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for over 40 years. Its teachers are certified, and many hold master’s degrees. They serve as a lab school for USC’s School of Music. Their standardized test scores are consistently above the national average. The students benefit from the many resources within walking distance, including the Columbia Museum of Art, the Richland County Public Library, the State House, the Supreme Court, historical homes and USC. St. Peter’s has always welcomed students of all faiths and cultural backgrounds. Their faith teaches them to serve others, which is implemented with service projects.

St. Peter’s strives to develop students who are academically challenged, confident in their abilities and understand their God-given gifts and responsibilities.

C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 35

feature

A Real-Life Adventure Hero

Dr. Lee Spence examines shipwrecks for treasure

By Susan Fuller Slack, CCP / Photography by Jeff Amberg

P

ulitzer Prize-winning author Margaret Mitchell flatly denied that Rhett Butler, the dashing adventurer in her blockbuster novel Gone with the Wind, was based on her

36 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

ex-husband. Worried about the potential of being sued for libel, she had gone through her entire manuscript changing names and later insisted that her story was pure fiction and that none of her

characters were real people.

B u t Co l u m b i a h i s t o r i a n a n d underwater archaeologist Dr. Edward Lee Spence says he disagrees and can prove it. After extensive research that

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became international news.

Th e e v i d e n c e is presented in 21 pages of Lee’s book, Treasures of the Confederate Coast: The Real Rhett Butler & Other Revelations. To begin with, Trenholm and Rhett Butler were intrepid, tall and handsome men, b o t h Ch a r l e s t o n b o r n . Th e y w e r e considered two of the richest men in the South and amassed fortunes during the Civil War through block ade running – the risky business of transporting munitions, medicines a n d m e r ch a n d i s e through the Federal blockade in fast cargo ships. Lee says both men had brilliant minds and similar political views. At the war’s end, both were accused of making off with the Confederacy’s missing gold and were jailed for a short period. They received pardons through similar circumstances.

Personal tragedy Columbia resident Dr. Lee Spence, a historian and t o u ch e d b o t h o f underwater archaeologist, has recovered artifacts from their lives by the loss hundreds of shipwrecks, many of great significance. of a child. Lee also thinks it is highly included shipwreck salvage, Lee revealed likely that Margaret Mitchell read Mary that Rhett Butler’s character was a highly Boykin Chestnut’s 1905 book, A Dairy romanticized portrait of distinguished From Dixie, which mentions afternoon tea South Carolina patriot George Alfred with the Trenholms and Edmond Rhett.

Trenholm (1807-1876), who was Treasurer A Life magazine editor scrutinized the of the Confederacy and a profiteer. Lee’s entirety of Spence’s data and decided it findings were reinforced by conversations was “overwhelming evidence.” As it turns with Charleston educator Dr. Robert R. out, even Margaret Mitchell’s descendants Nielsen and Atlanta historian Dr. Franklin believe it is true. Lee is working on a book M. Garrett. The literary discovery quickly to tell the full story.

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Diving into History Every young man dreams of adventure, pirates and buried treasure.

The romance of history has had an equally strong pull on Lee, beginning when he was a boy living in France. At 12 years old, he aspired to become an underwater archeologist after reading La Monde du Silence (The Silent World) by oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

Lee studied shipwrecks at the American school library and was particularly fascinated by the S.S. Georgiana, a powerful Confederate cruiser. Shrouded in a cloak of mystery and intrigue, the ship was lost off the Isle of Palms on its maiden voyage in 1863.

When young Lee’s family relocated to Charleston, he literally searched high and low for the Georgiana. He examined coastal areas from the air under the ploy of being a student pilot. Lee remembers, “Many hours were spent flying nauseatingly tight circles over the shallow waters off the Isle of Palms.” Then, in a single day in 1966, he located the wrecks of the S.S. Norseman, the S.W. Constance Decimer and the S.S. Georgiana, with the remains of the S.W. Mary Bowers resting on top.

Fraser & Company of Charleston owned the Georgiana’s contraband cargo.

George Trenholm ran the shipping business and named the steamer after his deceased child. Lee reports that, at the time of loss, the worth of the combined cargoes of the stacked ships was over $1 million. In 1967, the first South Carolina salvage license for shipwrecks was granted to Lee’s company, Shipwrecks Inc. (Underwater Antiquities Act).

The artifacts Lee recovered included everything from medicines to cannons.

But he was most intrigued by the boxes of buttons and brass-sewing pins found near the forward cargo hatch. Buttons and pins were scarce during the Civil War, and Lee says, “The pins would have been hoarded like precious jewels.”

Rhett Butler smuggled sewing pins through the blockade in Gone with the Wind. Lee says he treasures the Georgiana’s cache of sewing pins more than portholes or brass valves because

C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 37

Jacque Cousteau they once and edito r s o f belonged to the National Geographic real Rhett Butler.

Magazine. Lee is Lee also President of Sea dreamed of Research Society, finding the H.L. a non-profit Hunley, the first org anization to submarine in the promote scientific world to sink a and educational ship. He writes endeavors in any that in 1970 he of the marine located the wreck sciences or marine by chance during histories. a recreational fishing trip.

When diving to locate a fishing trap, he found it snagged to a crusted iron ledge, Dr. Spence keeps notebooks cataloging the details and locations of his discoveries.

Like any which h e s a y s respectable he immediately book or real-life hero, Lee isn’t afraid recognized as the Hunley. “It was the deployed the sub, referred to as “the to take a gamble, whether diving into research I had done that made me iron coffin.” Their mission was to sink the ocean for treasure or into provisions recognize it.” Serendipity was at play, but the sloop-of-war USS Housatonic in the liberally doused with fiery hot sauce.

Lee was uniquely prepared to seize the Charleston Harbor to break the Naval In addition to salvage operations, Lee blockade. Shipping magnate George moment. produces and sells a trio of spicy-hot To prove his claim in the days before Trenholm had a vested interest in the condiments though Shipwrecks, Inc., GPS, Lee plotted the location using only new “secret weapon” since he helped in partnership with his wife Lauren a handheld compass and a sextant. His finance the mission. While the mission and mother-in-law Loretta McEntire. map to the wreck’s location appears in was a success and the Housatonic The packaging for Murder Mustard™, his book and has been a matter of public destroyed, so was the Hunley. Opening Honey Fire Mustard™ and Musket VHP record since 1978 when the Hunley was a window to the past, Lee weaves a Sauce™ is embellished with entertaining officially placed on the National Register compelling and plausible narrative in his tongue-in-cheek quotes and action shots of Historic Places based on his discovery. book of how events might have unfolded of Lee. A jar of Murder Mustard reads, His mapped location was within the that night. He theorizes about the crew’s “Captain Trenholm™ says, Just a taste length of the salvage barge later used to final moments in the sub before it sank can cure any dog of begging!” Honey Fire to its cold watery grave. raise the wreck.

Mustard boasts, “Captain Trenholm says, L e e S p e n c e ’ s a r ch e o l o g i c a l A well-known adventure fiction writer It’s like the perfect lady, sweet as honey, but also claimed its discovery and many investigation of salvaged shipwrecks hot as fire!” And a bottle of Musket Sauce people have given him the credit. But he offers information about the historic warns, “Ersatz Warning: This has real never actually dove on the Hunley, and past, including engineering methods and vodka! So, don’t shoot your mouth off!” his dive team didn’t even visit the site events. Many shipwrecks serve as time Scarlett O’Hara would probably say, until after Lee’s map had been published. capsules, preserving priceless artifacts that “Great balls of fire!”

Lee offers a large collection of evidence humanize tragedy and help bring lost to validate his claim including a Civil crews and passengers back to life. As a The Hunley was raised on August 7, 2000 Admiralty Case filed on July 8, 1980 pioneer in underwater archaeology, Lee’s and secured at the Warren Lasch Conservation in Federal District Court. In 1995, Lee intellectual curiosity, archival research Center in Charleston. It was conserved and donated his rights to the submarine to and professional work ethic are attributes explored, and the crew was removed the the state of South Carolina at the Hunley he has drawn upon to discover and following year and interred with full military Commission’s request. Today the sub’s document hundreds of shipwrecks, many honors at Charleston’s Magnolia Cemetery. For of great significance. Author of numerous more information on the H.L. Hunley and value is estimated at over $40 million.

In his book, Lee shares insight on books, he has been the focus of countless other ships mentioned in this story, visit www. the poignant story of the Hunley. In the periodicals, including The New York Times searesearchsociety.com. For more information twilight hours of February 16, 1864, Lt. and People magazine. His work has been on the condiments, visit www.facebook.com/ George Dixon and his eight-man crew praised by many, including Captain pages/Murder-Mustard/64823083281.

Mustard, Murder & Mayhem!

38 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

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feature

A Week to Remember Top looks from The University of South Carolina’s Fashion Week

By Anne Postic / Photography by Jeff Amberg

Milly top, Waverly Grey shorts, Tory Burch shoes, Kara Ross ring, bracelet and earrings, Tory Burch bag, all from VanJean

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C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 39

LaRoque top and shorts Tory Burch shoes from VanJean

H

ave you heard? Fashion Week has come and gone, right here in Columbia. The University of South Carolina’s Fashion Board, a group of students with a passion for style, just celebrated their third Fashion Week under the direction of president Marquis Bias.

“It seems like yesterday that USC Fashion Week was just something I was dreaming about in my bedroom back home in Timmonsville. I feel so fortunate to not only have an organization, but an entire community that believed in my dream and my vision,” he muses.

“It feels good to know that I helped start something that has really made a change in Columbia fashion, something to be remembered for.”

For three years, Marquis led the Fashion Board in organizing a week of events culminating in a show featuring student designers as well as plenty of fashion forward local retailers. And he led them in style, dressed in sequins more

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often than not.

“Marquis’ enthusiasm for all things fashion is contagious!” explains local boutique owner Melissa Blanchard.

“USC has a great retail program, so it makes sense that he connected local shops with students. I like that the relationship he helped forge between the school and local businesses is about helping the students with projects, not just trying to advertise to them.”

For these pages, Marquis styled student model and fellow Fashion Board member Kayla Blake, photographed on USC’s historic Horseshoe. Though Marquis is graduating soon, his legacy remains. Will he be back for the show next year?

“Oh, yes,” he enthuses. “I wouldn’t miss it!”

Local fashion mavens won’t want to miss it, either. Mark your calendar!

Hair by Erica Wiggins, Shannon Brogdon and Jenny Beam of Shear Xpectations. Makeup

by Yana Kazunas of Shear Xpectations.

(L to R) USC Fahion Board president Marquis Bias with student model and Fashion Board member Kayla Blake, who wears a BCBGeneration dress from M Boutique

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TOMS espadrilles, AG Jeans, Bella Dahl top and jewelry, all from Bohemian

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C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 41

palmetto business

Standing at the Crossroads Crossroads Career Network points job seekers to work that satisfies

By Rosanne McDowell / Photography by Jeff Amberg

P

atrick Wright pulled into the p a r k i n g l o t o f Co l u m b i a ’ s Eastminster Presbyterian Church to drop his son at a church activity and watched for a few minutes while his son and fellow Boy Scout troop members helped folks get their cars parked before the event. Patrick’s attention was diverted for a moment by a sign he hadn’t noticed before, and he saw

42 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

that it announced a Crossroads Career Network meeting about to take place.

Wh e n y o u ’ v e h a d y o u r j o b unexpectedly eliminated in today’s challenging economy, a sign like that intrigues. Patrick, who had recently suffered just such a job loss, decided that it might be a good idea to look in on the meeting.

“I sat through the information

session and pretty soon realized that the Crossroads Career Network was something I needed to take part in,” he says.

What he found in that meeting was a local host site – Eastminster Presbyterian – cooperating in a national network of churches that help people at crossroads in their careers by providing totally free counsel, contacts

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C rossroads C areer N etwork

derives its name from biblical wisdom recorded by the prophet Jeremiah: “This is what the LORD says: ‘Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls…’” (Jeremiah 6:16).

(L to R) Ken Carey, Eastminster Presbyterian’s Crossroads Career Network volunteer facilitator, and Patrick Wright, who benefitted from the program

and encouragement. According to the network’s mission statement, this, in turn, equips and supports them to hear and follow God’s calling, as they explore careers and seek jobs. Meetings are open to all who want to participate, with or without a church affiliation.

As a result of meeting Sonny White, president of Midlands Technical College, at CCN Maximize Your Career meetings, Patrick Wright learned about, applied for and secured a position at Midlands Tech as department chair for information systems technology. The post was in an area he hadn’t considered previously, but his skills fit, and he has found it a real answer to his prayers and a satisfying way to make a living.

Crossroads Career Network’s aim

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is to assist job seekers in finding work that brings both personal and spiritual fulfillment — because that’s what makes a job a joy. Looking to return the blessing, Patrick now speaks at CCN meetings and helps current job seekers as he was helped.

Ken Carey, Eastminster Presbyterian’s CCN volunteer facilitator since its inception there in July 2009, has more than six years of staffing and recruiting experience. He works as a business development manager with Snelling Staffing Services of the Midlands, and he felt called to start this ministry at Eastminster when he learned that several of his Sunday school classmates were unemployed. He enjoys enlarging on just what CCN does.

“Crossroads Career Network,” says Ken, “is a national, nonprofit Christian ministry dedicated to providing online career, ministry and employer resources through faith-based materials. It offers a variety of networking and search tools for its membership to connect with places that are hiring. Its career groups offer one-on-one mentoring, scheduled networking meetings and career-explorer workshops to arm job seekers with an array of tools and information for them to determine their best life and career path.”

During career meetings, group members progress through a cuttingedge workbook (given free at meetings and available free online at www.crossroadscareer.org/workbook) that gives the unemployed, the underemployed and the misemployed an orderly way to learn how to pursue and win the right job. The program takes about eight weeks to complete,

but there’s no limit on how long a job seeker may attend meetings. Members support and pray for one another through the job-hunting process.

Presently, Eastminster’s meetings are held on Wednesdays from 8:15 to 10 a.m., while Northeast Presbyterian Church has a new CCN group, started just this past January, that meets on Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The two churches network together to give a maximum edge to their job seekers.

“Each small group is going to be reflective of whoever comes into it,” Ken explains, “and it’s often a series of events, including CCN participation, that leads to a new job. Here’s one way it can work: Dr. Lisabeth Medlock, a professional career coach and psychologist, came in and facilitated one of our classes. Now, we are careful not to let professionals come in and sell to the unemployed people in our classes, but we do let our speakers tell the group how to contact them so members can seek further help if they want to. One of our job seekers, Chris Younts, heard Dr. Medlock speak and became a student in one of her classes. He would come in to CCN each Wednesday all pumped up about the help she was giving him.

Chris wasn’t sure what he wanted to do, but he had some good ideas, and one of them came to fruition. As a result of a friend’s experience, he helped start a nonprofit organization called Hidden Wounds, which helps veterans who have post-traumatic stress disorder. He is now CFO of the organization. He created work for himself helping others through a chain of events, one link of which was CCN.” Chris’s mentor, Dr. Medlock, knows

C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 43

whereof she speaks when she presents to a CCN group because she had to reinvent herself after being blinded in a home accident not long ago. As a result, she is always a strong motivator to CCN job seekers. “While I still have peripheral vision, my reading vision is gone, and I can no longer drive, so I’ve had to learn new ways of doing things,” she says. In her put-to the-test counsel, Dr. Medlock encourages job seekers in understanding that the journey through career change is worth the effort it takes to get where you want to go.

Launched into churches in 2000,

44 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

m ay 2011

the ministry of CCN actually originated in 1987 out of Georgia. Current headquarters are located in Charlotte.

National CCN founder Brian Ray, also founder of a retained executive search consulting firm and former vice president and executive committee member of the Chick-fil-A restaurant chain, had a love for the Lord and a burden to help people that moved him to use his job-placement skills as an avenue for giving that help.

The bottom line of Crossroads Career Network isn’t expressed in terms of dollars on a financial spreadsheet, but in terms of lives changed. As Ken Carey says, “We’re here to help people at crossroads in their careers hear and follow God’s calling in their work. As a facilitator, I find it very humbling to become involved in people’s lives in this way. I tell them, ‘I don’t have all the answers, but God does, and if we seek Him, He’s going to help us.’”

For more information on how you can volunteer or participate in Crossroads Career Network, visit their website at www.crossroadscareer.org/explorers, or contact Ken Carey at ken@careersc.com.

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C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 45

SPREAD THE WORD

M. Malissa Burnette

Rita Cullum

Phil Hamby

Craig Nix

Vance Brabham

Stephanie Lawrence

Rebecca Halberg

Jannette Boyd

Gwen Lee

Suzanne Arsenault

Brandon Hicks

Ashley Hunter

Barrie Kirk

Christine DeGood

Andrew Delaney

Yvette Smoak

Patrick Cunningham

Brad Grooms

Loretta Starr

Michael Dowling

Cam Crawford

Brandon Brown

Kelsey Fink

Ashley Wright

M. Malissa Burnette has joined Callison Tighe and Robinson as a member.

The Creech and Creed Team, Todd Beckstrom, Angie Deloach, Debbie Erdman, Steve Burn, Brandon Hoffman, Barb Krebs, David Batten, Duane Salter, Ann Marr, Gloria McEwen, Melissa Richardson, Lynette Cauley and Becky Armstrong have been awarded Leaders’ Circle designation by ERA. Grubb & Ellis | Wilson Kibler has been named Grubb & Ellis’s Affiliate of the Year for 2010.

Lake Carolina has been named Community of the Year by the Sales & Marketing Council of Greater Columbia. The Battery at Arsenal Hill has been named Attached Community of the Year.

Rita Cullum of Ellis Lawhorne has been appointed to USC’s Educational Foundation Board.

Bill and Rachel Gause have opened RB’s Bodacious Bistro in the Bank of America Plaza on Main Street in downtown Columbia.

Phil Hamby has been named a board member of the USC Small Business Development Center.

Craig Nix, executive vice president and chief financial officer with First Citizens, has been recognized as the 2011 Distinguished Young Alumnus by USC’s Moore School of Business.

Vance Brabham has been named an associate with Rogers Townsend & Thomas. John Hearn, shareholder with the firm, has been named president-elect of the Richland County Bar Association.

Stephanie N. Lawrence has joined the 46 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

Columbia office of McAngus Goudelock & Courie. Andrew Delaney has joined the Council on Litigation Management.

Christine W. DeGood, PH R, has been promoted to vice president of operations with Recruiting Solutions.

CDM has announced its acquisition of Wilbur Smith Associates.

Aaron Shealy of Allstate has earned the Personal Financial Representative designation.

Trey Cantey has received the Chairman’s Conference award. Jeff and Yvette Smoak, Patrick Cunningham and Brad Grooms have received the President’s Conference award.

Rebecca K. Halberg of Collins & Lacy has been appointed to the Kids’ Chance of South Carolina Board of Directors.

Coldwell Banker United, Realtors® has been honored for outstanding performance during the past year at the 2011 Cartus Broker Network International Conference. More than 100 sales associates have completed training on short sales and counseling homeowners who are facing foreclosure. Jannette Boyd, Gwen Lee, Suzanne Arsenault, Irvin Mumford and Brandon Hicks have joined area offices.

Ashley Hunter has been named to lead McKay Public Affairs, a new venture by McKay, Cauthen, Settana & Stubley.

Dr. Barrie Kirk has been named vice president for corporate and continuing education at Midlands Technical College. The college’s program, Reinventing the College’s Online Learning System, has been named a 2011 Bellwether Award Finalist. The college has received a grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation to provide scholarships for unemployed or underemployed residents of Lexington and Richland counties to pursue training through MTC’s QuickJobs programs.

Erik Dommers, a student at Glenforest School, has earned a place on the 2012 “Spare the Air Calendar” for his highly imaginative and inventive artistic creation.

Loretta Starr of Russell and Jeffcoat has been recognized for finishing in the Top 20 Agents for Sales for 2010.

Michael D. Dowling has been named executive vice president and chief financial officer of Southern First Bank/Greenville First Bank.

Cam Crawford has been named president of The South Carolina Forestry Association.

Dr. Brandon Brown has joined The South Carolina Heart Center as an interventional cardiologist.

Kelsey Fink and Ashley Wright have joined Clines Salon in the Vista as stylists and colorists.

Gene Crawford

Gene Crawford is the founder of web design and development firm Periodthree, which has joined with AD C O to create ADCO Interactive.

Our sincere apologies to Gene for incorrectly listing his company name in the March issue.

m ay 2011

Columbia Metropolitan Your City, Your Magazine . . . and More!

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Get Connected Today w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 47

getting down to business with

Swanky Boutique

Adriane Shelley

O

wner Adriane Shelley opened Swanky Boutique with one specific purpose. Since its inception, it has been her goal to provide the ladies of Columbia with an opportunity to shop in a unique boutique that offers a personalized experience. She aims to bring fashion-forward clothing and fabulous accessory options to Columbia women.

In addition to dresses, tops, designer denim and shoes, Swanky Boutique carries fashion accessories like

48 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

purses, jewelry, hats, wraps and small leather goods. The store offers affordable fashion finds and unparalleled customer service. Adriane is currently a stylist for Cynthia Hardy.

Located on Two Notch Road beside the Village at Sandhills, Swanky Boutique is in the perfect venue for a shopping excursion. Come in and find the hottest fashions for the season, and no one will believe you went shopping in Columbia!

S P E C I A L A D V E R TISING SE C TION

m ay 2011

getting down to business with

Lake Carolina

T

o be named “Community of the Year” by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia is no easy task. Imagine being named such for 10 years.

Well-designed and full of choices, the community that has held this status for so long is located in northeast Columbia.

This spectacular community is none other than Lake Carolina, host to the 2011 Parade of Homes from May 7-22.

Visit www.lakecarolina.com for details and to purchase tickets.

Lake Carolina is an active, vibrant community where families come first.

Residents enjoy a wide range of resortstyle amenities and activities ranging from private parks and exclusive lake access to special events designed to cater to residents’ lifestyles, such as the annual Wine and Food Festival, Oyster Roast and Harborside Lights.

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“Lake Carolina feels as though you’re on vacation every day,” says Joan McGinn, a resident of the Woodleigh Park neighborhood. “My son walks – on sidewalks – to and from school. The landscaping is beautiful and there are walking trails. I love that I can walk in any direction and enjoy beautiful views while I exercise.”

The preservation of natural areas was at the top of everyone’s mind when building Lake Carolina, which has more than 170 acres of open, green space.

Small, rolling hills can be seen along either side of the road while driving around the community. In addition, the lake — over 200 acres – is home to some of the finest large-mouth bass and bream fishing in the Midlands. Waterskiing, swimming and boating offer even more leisure-time possibilities. Multiple pools and playgrounds are scattered

S P E C I A L A D V E R TISING SE C TION

throughout, and Sunset Park provides a lakeside family picnic area. Because the community was planned for each stage of life, there is a perfect place to call home in one of our 36 neighborhoods.

Lake Carolina is also home to two shopping centers: Town Center and Village Green. Each has shops and dining facilities run by local merchants. The unique atmosphere and close proximity make shopping and dining a pleasure no matter what time of day.

“My son loves A La Carte, the ice cream shop,” Joan says. “He’ll save up his money and stop for ice cream on the way home from school and hang out with friends. I don’t know anywhere else he could have that kind of freedom, and I could have such peace of mind.”

Visit today! Call (803) 736-5253 or check out www.lakecarolina.com/ columbiametro.

C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n 49

getting down to business with

Village at Sandhill S

panning over 300 acres in Northeast Columbia, Village at Sandhill is the premier shopping and lifestyle destination in the Midlands. With iconic retailers Belk, JC Penney, Home Depot, Coldwater Creek, Victoria’s Secret, Jos. A. Bank and Reeds Jewelers to name a few, Village at Sandhill also features a 16-screen Regal Cinema, as well as classic local and national name brand restaurants. The center also serves as a fitting locale for a myriad of family-friendly events. From its very popular Summer Concert Series to the July 4th Freedom Festival, Village at Sandhill prides itself on being a true center of the

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community. An upscale residential component – amidst a stunning backdrop of fountains, cobblestone paths and tasteful greenery – rounds out the experience.

The brainchild of legendary developer and entrepreneur Alan Kahn, Village at Sandhill sees nothing but a bright future. “I’ve seen more leasing activity within the past six months than I’ve witnessed in the past two years,” says Village at Sandhill General Manager, Jeff Harper. “In fact, we’ll be making some exciting announcements very soon about several new additions to Village at Sandhill. And that ultimately means new jobs and new tax revenue for the community, not

S P E C I A L A D V E R TISING SE C TION

to mention a continually exciting experience for the shoppers and residents of the mid-state.”

Future Village at Sandhill plans also call for a hotel and additional residential development, along with other mixed uses and new retail, of course. “Mr. Kahn is a true visionary whose instincts and insight for the positive growth of Northeast Columbia are continually being proven to be right-on,” Harper continues.

“As the economy continues to improve, the area’s growth is only going to ramp up. And Village at Sandhill is the bellwether for that growth. We think we’re in a very good position.”

m ay 2011

getting down to business with

Exceed Landscape Solutions

E

Holcombe Smith

• Landscape Architecture • Landscape Construction • Landscape Maintenance w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

S P E C I A L A D V E R TISING SE C TION

xceed Landscape Solutions is in the business of creating an image for each client. Whether you are a homeowner, a residential builder, a developer, a commercial contractor, in the health care industry or a homeowners association, Exceed goes beyond. Our commitment to each client is unequaled.

Our attention to design and detail are the key elements for creating the perfect landscape for each client.

Exceed Landscape Solutions, founded by Holcombe Smith, has been improving the curb appeal of the Midlands of South Carolina since 1998. With the help of family and friends providing new opportunities, the business grew much faster than anticipated. In 2005, the company purchased four acres of land on Pineview Road in Columbia near I-77 South. This purchase gave the opportunity to expand and provide a full line of landscape services: Landscape Architecture, Landscape Construction and Landscape Maintenance.

In addition, opening new facilities in the Lowcountry in 2005 and in the Upstate in 2009 has given them the opportunity to provide unsurpassed services throughout the state.

“We are greening South Carolina one client at a time,” says Holcombe.

“We have the professionalism and knowledge of over 60 committed employees with degrees in horticulture and business from Clemson University, North Carolina State University and the University of South Carolina. Moreover, we are committed to each client to provide unmatched service and commitment to quality.”

“We look forward to continued success and hope we can provide you your perfect landscape.”

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide 52 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide

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picture this

Girls Night Out Fashion Show at EdVenture

Alessandra Tecla Gerevini, Dana Bruce

Dana Bruce, Niki Curley

Shoot and Shag Benefit for Epworth Children’s Home

Rebecca Goings, Lauren Truslow

Back row, L to R: Angela English, Alexa Goodwin, Megan Toole, Jenna Bridgers, Ashley Stratton, Jessica Eadon Front row, L to R: Kaleigh Toole, Rebecca Goings, Lauren Truslow, Leslie Dickert, Beth Warren, Kelly Hall

Kaleigh Toole

Pam Toole, Neal Truslow, Lauren Truslow, Tim Toole

Kaleigh Toole, Pam Toole, Lauren Truslow

Lauren Truslow, Jessica Eadon, Francis Clark Johnson, Leah McKee, Jenna Bridgers

19th Annual Townes Award Dinner

Hon. Mick Zais, Gary Parsons, Chuck Hinton, George Fletcher

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Emerson Gower, Hon. Hugh Leatherman

Dr. Murray Brockman, Kim Bowman

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liz roberts photography

Landrum Johnston and Roland McKittrick Knight, III

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Trent Earhardt and Darcy Dewhirst

Nia Driskell and Matthew Hansford

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Send an email to robyn@columbiametro.com for details.

liz roberts photography

Submit your wedding photos for inclusion in Just Married!

Doreen Kline Photography

married

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just

Lauren Funderburk and John Guignard

Robert Kenney and Shelly Stier

a p r i l 2011

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Contents JA4 From the Publisher JA15

JA6 Junior Achievement Inspiring Success

By Robin Cowie Nalepa JA6

JA15

JA6

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JA15 S.C. Business Hall of Fame Honorees Clay D. Brittain, Jr., Edward Alton Buck, Sr. and John Charles Long

By Robin Cowie Nalepa

JA22 Past Laureates JA15

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Junior Achievement FROM THE PUBLISHER

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olumbia Metropolitan is pleased to present this special tribute to the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame and Junior Achievement. Every year thousands of school children benefit from the practical instruction about the free enterprise system taught by hundreds of J.A. volunteers. J.A. fills a tremendous need in the education of our children.

From learning the basics between “needs” and “wants” (something many adults struggle with, including myself) to the challenges of running a small business, J.A. students receive untold benefits from an interactive and fun curriculum that they never forget. It’s debatable, however, who receives the greater benefit from J.A. – the students or the volunteers. After participating for many years as a J.A. volunteer, I can attest to the personal satisfaction and enjoyment that comes from teaching a class full of energetic kids. The atmosphere is electric, and you never know what kind of answers you will get from your questions. My wife once taught a kindergarten class and asked the following question: “Do you know where money comes from?” The young financial wizards eagerly raised their hands and one answered, “Yes, from my daddy’s wallet!”

J.A. introduces children to the business world, and the Business Hall of Fame illustrates the rewards that result from hard work and persistence. The laureates exemplify strong character, discipline and the importance of giving back to the community. We hope you enjoy this special publication honoring the 2011 S.C. Business Hall of Fame award recipients and the great work Junior Achievement is accomplishing with South Carolina’s youth.

junior achievement Publisher

Henry Clay e d i to r

Emily Tinch A SSO C I ATE EDITOR e d i to r i a l A rt D i r e c to r

Robyn Culbertson a d v e rt i s i n g A rt D i r e c to r

Dennis Craighead Design SENIOR A DVERTISING E X E C UTIVE

Shawn Coward A DVERTISING s a l e s

Emily Clay, Margaret Clay production manager

Nancy Lambert INTERN s

Allyson Seitzer, Ravenel Godbold Published by Clay Publishing, Inc., 3700 Forest Drive, Suite 106, Columbia, S.C. 29204. Copyright© Columbia Metropolitan 2011. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Advertising rates available upon request. The publishers are not responsible for the comments of authors or for unsolicited manuscripts.

Sincerely,

Henry Clay

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About the cover: Stephanie Stuckey, president of Junior Achievement, with first-grader William Morris. photography by Emily Clay

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photography by emily clay

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Rick Morgan, Junior Achievement board chair, with 10th-grader Charlotte Jones, who took her first J.A. course in lower school

Junior Achievement Inspiring Success

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By Robin Cowie Nalepa

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photography courtesy of junior achievement

A student at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary School learns about building a city in Junior Achievement’s Our City program.

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lden Brinkley started out making the donuts. It was his first taste of business success.

Through the donut shop model, Alden learned about supply and demand and franchise operations. In a year’s time he moved up and learned how money flows in a business through accounting and taxes. Now, after seven years of study, Alden easily discusses world trade and the global economy.

Alden isn’t a business tycoon, yet.

At 14 years old, however, he is more knowledgeable about business than many adults, thanks to the involvement of Junior Achievement in his schools.

Since second grade Alden and his classmates have benefitted from the economic education afforded them from Junior Achievement volunteers teaching in their classes. Now an eighthgrader at Dutch Fork Middle School in Irmo, Alden speaks sagely of business cultures, big ideas and the economic impact of hard work.

“The biggest thing I’ve learned from

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“Junior Achievement

connects the classroom to the real world.”

- Stephanie Stuckey, president, Junior Achievement of Central South Carolina Junior Achievement is success never comes before work,” says Alden.

It’s this kind of thinking that made Alden a South Carolina Business Hall of Fame Student Ambassador for Junior Achievement. It’s also exactly the kind of thinking the non-profit organization hopes its programs instill in young people.

Entrepreneurship, leadership, work-readiness skills, financial literacy — these are the types of lessons Junior Achievement volunteers bring to students throughout the Midlands and the country every year, according to Stephanie Stuckey.

As president of Junior Achievement

of Central South Carolina, Stephanie oversees the operations and outreach which touch the lives of thousands of students in 23 counties.

“We connect the classroom to the real world,” says Stephanie.

This means volunteers teach students the skills they need for job interviews or help children understand money issues that impact their own families, Stephanie explains.

Junior Achievement of Central South Carolina reached 7,552 students in 409 classrooms in 2009–2010, a 15 percent increase from the prior year, according to Stephanie.

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Stephanie Stuckey, president of Junior Achievement, with first-grader William Morris

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materials and programs for elementary, middle and high schools for free. Programs range from exploring earning and savings for kindergarten children to philanthropy and personal e n t e r p r i s e f o r h i g h - s ch o o l students.

One school in which Junior Achievement has made an impact is Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary and its magnet The Academy for Civic Engagement (ACE) in Richland County School District Two. Here the focused learning enables students to be civically engaged through government, economics and service learning, says Dawn Smith, Lead Teacher at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary.

“JA has been instrumental in bringing business and entrepreneurship skills to the classroom,” says Dawn. “Junior A student at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary School learns about city zoning in Junior Achievement’s Our City program.

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photography courtesy of junior achievement

Achievement is a great way for business leaders to get involved in schools and promote their field, deepen students’ understanding of the business world and mentor students.”

Th e s u c c e s s o f t h e J u n i o r Achievement programs relies on the willingness of trained volunteers, many of whom are local business leaders, to spend time in the classroom and share their experiences.

One such business leader is Robin Rawl, vice president of membership and sales at ClubCorp, a business that owns and operates private clubs. Robin has volunteered for 18 years with Junior Achievement in the Midlands and currently serves on the organization’s board of directors.

Robin finds immense satisfaction in mentoring students at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School. There she’s worked with fourth-grade teacher Marsi Pulford to impact students year after year. With

A student at Lonnie B. Nelson Elementary School participates in Junior Achievement’s Our City program.

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minimal time and energy there is a big payoff for all involved, she explains.

“It’s great to see the kids’ faces light up when it all comes together,” says Robin. “It creates future leaders for our community.”

John W. Hall also knows Junior A ch i e v e m e n t s u c c e s s . “ J u n i o r Achievement has been almost a constant theme throughout my life,” says John, who is both an alumnus of Junior Achievement programs and an organization volunteer.

As a tenth-grade student at A.C. Flora High School in Columbia many years ago, John remembers not being engaged in school. He also remembers a fateful morning announcement regarding a meeting for Junior Achievement. It was there he was intrigued by business concepts that lead him on a career path based in the principles of business and economics.

John became an economist and went on Students use hands-on tools to learn about city planning in Junior Achievement’s Our City program.

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to get his masters degree. He has worked for SCE&G for more than 35 years and currently is manager of strategic planning.

Once John established himself in his career he began giving back to Junior Achievement. He spent many years volunteering in the classroom and now serves on the S.C. Business Hall of Fame committee for the organization.

His commitment at times has left others scratching their heads.

Once John even left the Masters Golf Tournament to teach a Junior Achievement class. Just as the friend he left at the Masters hasn’t forgotten the incident, John can’t forget the power of Junior Achievement on the students.

Each year Junior Achievement names individuals to the S.C. Business Hall of Fame. These business leaders are recognized for their positive impact on the state. Members of the elite group include Roger Milliken, Darla Moore and John Swearingen.

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Working with the hall of fame committee, John has met and talked with many of the Laureates throughout the years. These interactions led John to better understand the power of Junior Achievement.

“That was when it really struck me what we were doing here,” he says.

“That is the track we are putting these kids on. With the right model those kids can catch fire and aspire to become business leaders.”

Educating and shaping future business leaders is a critical mission for Junior Achievement, according to Rick Morgan. Fortunately, as the current Junior Achievement board chair, Rick and others are working to build on the organization’s past success.

As an employment and labor law attorney at McNair Law Firm, Rick is familiar with the positives and negatives of business as usual. Rick believes children should understand as early as possible the power of a dollar and “how

to take a dollar and make it better for the community.”

He knows Junior Achievement brings these lessons home to area students. Rick fondly remembers a 17-year-old who took the knowledge she gained from Junior Achievement and catapulted herself into the role of entrepreneur and started her own cupcake business.

He also remembers a distracted young man who tuned into a business ethics lesson Rick gave at a local high school. Rick observed the young man go from uninterested to fully engaged in the course of an hour. After the session, the student thanked Rick for the information he shared.

“I told my wife, ‘I think I did something good today,’” said Rick.

“For one day, for one hour that day, I touched the life of one kid.”

Rick and Junior Achievement know this is a responsibility we all have to share with the next generation.

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South Carolina Business Hall of Fame

The 2011 Laureates

By Robin Cowie Nalepa Photography courtesy of the Laureates’ families

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ntegrity, civic mindedness, vision — each year Junior Achievement recognizes business leaders who embody these traits, and more, and name them to the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame. These individuals are honored for their commitment to free enterprise, for their positive impact on South Carolina and as business role models for young people.

Since the inception of the Hall of Fame in 1985 by Junior Achievement and The State newspaper, the distinguished membership has grown to 96 Laureates. In May, Junior Achievement honors three more individuals for their success and contributions: Clay D. Brittain, Jr., Edward Alton Buck, Sr. and John Charles Long (posthumous).

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Clay Brittain, Jr.

Edgar Alton Buck, Sr.

Clay Brittain, Jr. Born December 18, 1929

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olf and Myrtle Beach –- for some the sport and the South Carolina resort town are synonymous. One of the people responsible for pairing the two with the type of success worthy of a major title is Clay Brittain, Jr. Clay was part of a group of hotel owners who formed Myrtle Beach National in 1971. At that time, too few golf courses and tee times prevented a tourism push to bring golfers to the Grand Strand. With Clay at the lead, the company built and acquired multiple golf courses, including three designed by Arnold Palmer. Myrtle Beach National expanded over the years to include 15 golf courses and accommodations and packages for golfers from around the world.

Clay believed if they built it, the golfers would come, but they had to know about it first. So Clay and a number of other golf course owners pooled their resources to promote and

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advertise Myrtle Beach Golf. They formed Golf Holiday, and Clay served as the president.

At Clay’s 2009 induction into the Myrtle Beach Golf Hall of Fame, Pete Pearce said of his friend and colleague: “Clay was a driving force behind the success of Myrtle Beach National and it would not be the company it is today without his leadership.”

Clay’s path to the greens and success wasn’t always an easy one. He was born in Winston-Salem, N.C. in 1929.

As a child, he was a paper boy and soda jerk at the local drugstore fountain counter. He took a summer job when he was 15 working for his uncle’s construction crew building the Chesterfield Inn in Myrtle Beach. He found Myrtle Beach and the hospitality industry intriguing.

The summer after his first year of college at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Clay started a business venture in Myrtle Beach, Clay’s Beach Service. He rented beach umbrellas and chairs to hotel guests and lifeguarded during the day. At night he served as a desk clerk at the Chesterfield Inn. In 1951, Clay contracted polio and was confined to a hospital for four months. He never finished his final year of

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Clay Brittain, Jr. and Kenny Rogers at Myrtle Beach National

Clay Brittain, Jr., second from left, and Greg Norman present a donation to Habitat for Humanity.

Clay Brittain, Jr., receives commendation from Dave DeCenzo, dean of Coastal Carolina University’s business school.

college, but he became manager of the Chesterfield Inn at the age of 21.

Clay and his uncle purchased the Second Avenue fishing pier in 1953. In 1954, Hurricane Hazel hit Myrtle Beach and destroyed the pier. Undeterred, they swapped what was left of the pier for an oceanfront cottage that they turned into a restaurant. The restaurant was meant to be a temporary venture, but five decades later the Sea Captain’s House still serves some of the best seafood in Myrtle Beach and is still owned by the Brittain family.

Life hasn’t been all business for Clay. He also has served on the board of the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and the local school board, he was a member of the Coastal Carolina Education Foundation and Epworth Children’s Home in Columbia, and he is credited with establishing the PGA

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Clay Brittain, Jr. receives the Don Rossi Award from Walt Lankau of the National Golf Course Owners Association.

golf degree at Coastal Carolina University. In 2001, the school honored his contributions to the community by establishing the Clay Brittain, Jr. Center for Resort Tourism. In 2000, Clay

Clay Brittain, Jr., was a driving force behind establishing Myrtle Beach as a prominent golf destination. He knew if he built it, they would come. also received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, from Gov. Jim Hodges.

Clay and his wife Pat raised three sons and one daughter.

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Eddie Buck, right, enjoys one of his favorite pasttimes, sport fishing for marlin.

The Bucks at Buck Family Design Center

Eddie Buck, far right, with his family at daughter Susanne’s wedding

Today, two of the sons, Matthew and Clay, are involved with the businesses their father started. Their father is now retired, but he still enjoys coming up with new ideas.

Matthew says he witnessed and learned from his father’s strong sense of customer service, strong work ethic and integrity.

“He is extremely outgoing,” says Matthew. “He loves to talk to people about Myrtle Beach.”

Edgar Alton (Eddie) Buck, Sr. Born July 23, 1941

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oung people come to Edgar Alton Buck, Sr., full of questions: What should they do? How should they do it? How do they become successful like Mr. Buck?

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Eddie Buck with Margaret Brown Buck

Eddie welcomes the questions and the opportunity to council others. He shares with them what he’s learned in a career that has spanned more than four decades, the lessons he’s learned as a mortgage banker, entrepreneur and owner of businesses ranging from lumber supply to storage facilities. He talks to them about the value of public service and volunteering. He may even give them advice he received from his own mentors, like Hugh Lane Sr, Bob Royall, Hootie Johnson, and Charlie Way, all of whom are also members of the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame.

“Today, it’s a matter of how hard you want to work,” says Eddie. “I tell them if you are willing to work hard and stay focused you should have a very successful career. I council them that it is important to give back to the community.”

Eddie knows of what he speaks. When he was young he talked to his father about the path he should take in life. The

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world was changing with credit and banking taking a bigger role, his father told him. Eddie listened.

Eddie graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s in business. He served in the Coast Guard. Then he followed his father’s advice and went into mortgage banking. Eddie was a quick study. In six years he moved up the ranks from manager-trainee at Carolina National Mortgage Investment Company to executive vice president of Citizens and Southern National Bank of South Carolina.

In 1975, Eddie and his wife Margaret purchased a small lumber supply company on James Island. At the time the company’s annual sales were less than $1 million. By 2006,

When his daughter Susanne was a child, Eddie Buck never missed an event she was participating in. Family always came first.

Buck Lumber sales had reached $49 million a year.

Over the years, with hard work and focus, Eddie built a diversified portfolio of companies, including Jupiter Holdings, the parent company of Buck Management, Stockade Storage, Sonic Drive-In, Bojangles, Super Suds Carwash, Buck Lumber and Blue Water Convenience Stores. He is responsible for the employment of more than 250 people.

This is not a responsibility Eddie takes lightly. He has always valued people and relationships. He’s proud to point out he has employees who have been with him for more than four decades. He’s known for empowering his employees with training and rewarding them with incentives, while making sure they can serve their customers with the latest technology available.

Helping build the community and serve others is also part of Eddie’s life philosophy. Eddie has volunteered and chaired boards for more than a dozen organizations, from the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center to the Windwood Farm School for Boys. In the civic arena, he answered the call of four South Carolina governors – Riley, Campbell, Beasley and Hodges – serving on and chairing the State Railroad Commission and the State Ports Authority Commission. He also was elected to a four-year term on the Charleston County Council. Eddie’s fond reflections of his elected service include successful advocacy for the County Parks and EMS systems. “These two achievements positively affected the quality of life for all Charleston County residents,” he maintains.

An editorial in the Charleston Post and Courier in 2001 said of Eddie’s involvement in the Ports Authority: “In his two years as chairman of the State Ports Authority, Eddie Buck has achieved commendable progress in making the agency as responsive to the local community as it historically has been to its customers in the shipping industry.”

Eddie’s career had its ups and downs. Not every venture was successful. The downturn in the economy in the 1980s

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put a stop to any expansion of Buck Lumber. So he decided to diversify and purchased Kiawah Island General Store. Today, Bluewater Convenience Stores continues to grow, with 13 retail sites and a gasoline distribution service.

In the late 80s Eddie also ventured into the self-storage business. Stockade Storage now operates 18 facilities with more than one million square feet of storage space in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida.

Early in his career Eddie married Margaret Brown, one of the first female attorneys practicing in South Carolina.

He counts that decision among the best he’s ever made. As a partner, friend and mother, Eddie gives his wife the highest marks. He also has appreciated her legal expertise throughout the years. “She’s kept me out of a lot of trouble,” says Eddie, laughing.

While Eddie and Margaret grew their businesses they also grew their family, raising two children, Susanne Buck Cantey and Eddie Buck, Jr. Both children now serve in leadership positions for Jupiter Holdings.

Susanne remembers her father always taking an active role in the family. “As a child my father never missed a play, tennis match or any other event I was participating in,” says Susanne.

“Family always came first.”

Family time also included her father’s favorite activity of sport fishing for marlin on his boat Rookie IV and more than a few intense games of Monopoly.

“My father makes everything fun and puts so much love into everything he does,” says Susanne. “If he does something – whether it’s through his work, volunteering or a project – he does it the right way.”

Susanne and Eddie, Jr. are among many who see the impact that their father has made on others. He has won awards, citations and honors for his efforts, yet his motivation has little to do with certificates or plaques.

“Eddie Buck is a model of an entrepreneur who understands the blending of doing well and doing good,” says former S.C. Gov. James B. Edwards.

John Charles (J.C.) Long Born September 19, 1903 Died July 9, 1984 John Charles (J.C.) Long lived unafraid of taking risks.

He built a career on seeing possibility where others saw difficulty. He found solutions when others were stymied by the status-quo. In his career, he argued points of law, built companies and embraced measured change. J.C.’s business prowess and vision literally changed the landscape of South Carolina.

J.C. was born in Pensacola, Fla., but moved to Charleston with his family when he was a teenager. His industrious streak shone from a young age. He sold peanuts at ball games, managed a concession stand and worked his first construction

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J. C. Long

job when he was 16.

He sharpened his leadership skills while balancing athletics and academic achievement. He excelled in high school football while attending Charleston High School. While attending the University of South Carolina, he lettered in baseball, basketball and football. According to his family he led the Gamecock football team as captain in 1925. While at USC, J.C. earned a bachelor’s degree and law degree. His loyalty to his alma mater lasted throughout his life, and he later served as a USC trustee.

Several years after graduation, he established his own law office in Charleston. He became one of the state’s leading personal injury lawyers and fought the first asbestos case in South Carolina. He was known as a gifted orator, who dramatically argued cases in front of packed courtrooms.

While law was his first passion, J.C.’s legacy grew as he branched out into civic leadership and development.

He was elected to the S.C. senate from Charleston County at the age of 27. He served one term. He served on the S.C. Highway Commission, was appointed to the Educational Finance Commission at the request of then Gov. James F. Byrnes and was a specially appointed judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

The same year J.C. became a legislator, he also established himself as an influential real estate developer. His first project, Ashley Forest, made residential housing available west of the Ashley River, a rarity at the time.

With a vision for housing, both residential and vacation, for returning World War II soldiers, J.C. purchased 1,300 acres on the Isle of Palms. He founded the Beach Company to operate the development. He paved roads, built bridges and brought in municipal services, such as water and trash collection, to the sea island. The Beach Company remains a thriving real estate development company, still family held, now led by his grandson John Darby.

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“He had an uncanny ability to forecast what people wanted in lifestyles and what communities should provide to meet those needs that would be consistent with the character of local culture and ever mindful of market conditions,” says Charlie Way, who knew J.C. in several capacities including as mentor, boss and father-in-law.

When J.C.’s health began failing in the mid-1970s, Charlie became his successor as president of The Beach Company.

J.C. became the largest single property owner in all of Charleston County. He built the first high-rise residential building in Charleston, the 14-story Sergeant Jasper Apartments. He followed it up with similar units across South Carolina and others in Georgia, North Carolina and Alabama.

In 1963, J.C.’s love of law and real estate intersected at the corner of Broad and Meeting Streets in Charleston, known as the “Four Corners of Law.” In 1963, private investors nearly purchased the Timrod Inn building. This would

J.C. Long

lived unafraid of taking risks and built his career on seeing possibility where others saw difficulty. have prevented the expansion of the Charleston County Courthouse at its original site. J.C. purchased the property with personal funds and sold it to the county at the same price. The courthouse expanded on that site.

It’s been said that J.C. understood the basics of the American free enterprise system and mastered them in his lifetime. Beyond real estate, J.C. founded the State Savings and Loan Association, later known as South Carolina Federal, the Old Charleston Insurance Company, the Isle of Palms Water Company and the Worth Company.

J.C. and his wife, Alberta Sottile Long, had two daughters, Joyce Carolyn, who married Dr. Charles P. Darby, retired chair of the Pediatric Department of MUSC, and Mary Ellen, who married Charlie Way. He was the proud grandfather of ten.

J.C. lived to be 80 years old and his life can be traced through achievements and success in everything from athletics to land development, law to banking. Yet, if he were alive today he likely would talk more about others than himself or his business success. He’d talk about friends, neighbors, associates and family.

His daughters say, “Our family was the center of his life, and he gave each of us his unequivocal love, support, unending interest, and wise counsel.”

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JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT SOUTH CAROLINA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME LAUREATES 1985 Bernard M. Baruch Charles E. Daniel William Gregg Francis M. Hipp Hugh C. Lane Roger Milliken Elliott White Springs 1986 James Lide Coker Ambrose E. Gonzales Buck Mickel Walter S. Montgomery James C. Self E. Craig Wall, Sr. 1987 J. Willis Cantey James A. Chapman, Jr. H. William Close W.W. “Hootie” Johnson 1988 George W. Park G. Richard Shafto John E. Swearingen A. Lee M. Wiggins 1989 Edwin Franklin Averyt James M. Henderson Ira McKissick Koger A. Foster McKissick Eliza Lucas Pinckney

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1990 Hugh L. McColl, Jr. Ben Rankin Morris Edwin Wales Robertson Edwin Grenville Seibels James C. “Jim” Self Wilbur Stevenson Smith 1991 Charles W. Coker John Henderson Lumpkin, Sr. Roger C. Peace Arthur Middleton Williams 1992 John Kelley Cauthen Robert S. Davis Tom B. Pearce John A. Warren 1993 William Melvin Brown, Jr. Franklin Gorham Burroughs Wofford B. Camp J. Wilson Newman 1994 Frederick B. Dent Irwin Kahn Guy Fleming Lipscomb, Jr. Franklyn D. Owen, Jr. 1995 P. Henderson Barnette William J. Detyens Joseph James Lawton

1996 Hugh M. Chapman I. S. Leevy R. Roy Pearce

2003 David Robert Coker Lawrence M. Gressette, Jr. Joseph Turner Newton, Jr.

1997 John M. Hamrick John M. Rivers Robert V. Royall

2004 Joseph William Holliday William Barnet III

1998 Gayle Owen Averyt Ellison S. McKissick, Jr. Edwin Craig Wall, Jr. 1999 Martha Rivers Ingram George Dean Johnson, Jr. William J. Murray, Jr. 2000 William T. Cassels, Jr. David S. Lewis, Jr. Elizabeth Timothy 2001 Mercer Silas Bailey Rufus C. Barkley, Jr. Joel A. Smith, III 2002 Herman Warden Lay George William Rogers Joseph H. Williams

2005 James Roy Pennell Charles S. Way, Jr. 2006 Charles J. Bradshaw Jerome J. Richardson 2007 Robert Mills Darla Moore Robert S. Small 2008 Bennett A. Brown Robert E. Coleman Charles E. Fraser 2009 Joseph A. Edens William Hayne Hipp Robert E. McNair 2010 Harris E. DeLoach, Jr. Silas C. McMeekin M. Edward Sellers

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columbia metropolitan Home

Contents

CH8

CH6 From the Editor

CH8 2011 Parade of Homes

After a two-year hiatus, The Parade of Homes makes a stunning comeback

By Sam Morton

CH26 You Can Go Home Again

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Four Columbians move back to their childhood homes

By Melissa Andrews

CH32 Feeling God’s Earth in Your Hands

Betty and Jimmy Gasque’s passion for life in the garden

By Margaret Clay

CH37 New to the Neighborhood?

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Columbia Metropolitan Home FROM THE EDITOR

C

olumbia Metropolitan magazine presents this special issue of Columbia Metropolitan Home. Inside you’ll find all that you need to know about this year’s Parade of Homes tour in Lake Carolina. The five featured homes will be open to the public May 7 through 22 from noon to 8 p.m. daily.

During Mothers Morning Out, which will be held May 9, 11 and 18, the Parade will open at 10 a.m. Visit the Parade and see the latest trends in new home building and gather ideas from the featured interior designer in each of the homes.

Also in this issue, writer Melissa Andrews interviewed several local Columbians about moving back into their childhood homes. These families share the joys of being able to grow their families and deepen their roots in familiar surroundings that they hold dear to their hearts. This story celebrates Columbia families and also offers great tips to anyone considering a move back home in their future.

Jimmy Gasque has been the subject of numerous articles that focus on his love of teaching in the classroom. I consider myself very fortunate to have had Mr. Gasque as one of my teachers during my years growing up at Heathwood Hall. But Jimmy Gasque and his wife Betty are also known in their neighborhood and to friends and family for their wonderful garden. In this issue, Margaret Clay takes us on a tour of their gardens and gives us some insider secrets to their colorful oasis.

Enjoy this issue of Columbia Metropolitan Home.

Sincerely,

Publisher

Henry Clay e d i to r

Emily Tinch A SSO C I ATE EDITOR e d i to r i a l A rt D i r e c to r

Robyn Culbertson a d v e rt i s i n g A rt D i r e c to r

Dennis Craighead Design SENIOR A DVERTISING E X E C UTIVE

Shawn Coward A DVERTISING s a l e s

Emily Clay, Margaret Clay production manager

Nancy Lambert INTERN s

Allyson Seitzer, Ravenel Godbold Columbia Metropolitan Home is published by Clay Publishing, Inc., 3700 Forest Drive, Suite 106, Columbia, S.C. 29204.

Copyright© Columbia Metropolitan 2011. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Advertising rates available upon request. The publishers are not responsible for the comments of authors or for unsolicited manuscripts.

About the cover: Lake Carolina hosts the 2011 Parade of Homes in the Peninsula neighborhood Photography courtesy of Lake Carolina

Emily S. Tinch

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2011 Parade of Homes at Lake Carolina After a two-year hiatus, The Parade of Homes makes a stunning comeback By Sam Morton Association of Greater Columbia, says the return of the Parade of Homes after a two-year layoff is a significant happening for builders and potential homebuyers. “The first Parade was in 1985, and we held one every year consecutively until 2008. It has grown in popularity every year and has become one of the most well-attended new home events in South Carolina.”

It was in 2008, of course that the real estate bubble burst along with the national economy, circumstances that made the mere prospect of home ownership dicey and brought the construction of custom and luxury homes to a near standstill.

But there are many silver linings hidden among the dark clouds, and

photography courtesy of lake carolina

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luxury home is just that — a custom-built structure with every conceivable amenity, from crown mouldings to hardwired sound systems. But the 2011 Parade of Homes may be remarkable for what it is not — a show of excess.

The five homes in this year’s Parade don’t feature wine cellars, saunas or theater rooms like the homes in the 2008 event. They are functional homes; extremely well built and well appointed, but functional. The average square footage (3,000 to 4,000 square feet) is lower than in previous Parades as is the average price point per home.

Earl McLeod, longtime executive director of the Home Builders

Lake Carolina, site of the 2011 Parade of Homes, offers its residents many options for boating, fishing and swimming.

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some of the brightest are this year’s Parade homes. Constructed by some of the most well-respected builders in the Southeast, these homes display grandeur and superior craftsmanship.

“We have five brand new homes all within a block of each other,” Earl says.

“People love going through beautiful, fully-furnished homes that showcase the work of professional builders, designers and landscapers. They get to see new features, new technologies and the latest building techniques. It’s just a nice way to spend a couple of hours.” Built in to this year’s Parade are special daily events such as a local art exhibit, a merchants’ day, children’s activities, nature walks, cycling events and Muffins & Mimosas on Mother’s Day, May 8.

This year’s Parade is located in The Peninsula neighborhood at Lake Carolina. Voted Community of the Year for 10 years running, Lake Carolina is a master planned community with 36 distinct neighborhoods, miles of waterfront and lake view homes, and a town center and Village Green for shopping and dining. The community boasts its own YMCA, walking trails galore, soothingly landscaped easements and common areas, and virtually unlimited opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming.

Construction in The Peninsula began six years ago, and 115 homes have been completed to date. The final phase consists of 31 lots, with 27 remaining. The Peninsula is currently Lake Carolina’s only gated community, where residents enjoy private pool access and a private day dock.

The Parade of Homes will be open to the public May 7 through 22 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Mothers Morning Out will be held on May 9, 11 and 18, and the Parade will open at 10 a.m. For more information, log onto the website for the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia at www.columbiabuilders.com, visit www.paradeofhomescolumbia.com or search Facebook for the public event page, “Parade of Homes 2011 at Lake Carolina.”

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Home #1

Heavenly Bliss

by Capogrossi Construction, Inc.

By Sam Morton / Rendering by Lenker Design Capogrossi Construction, led by president Jeff Capogrossi, is celebrating its 25th year in business, and this home is the company’s 11th Parade of Homes entry.

This year’s home is approximately 3,800 square feet with four bedrooms and four-anda-half baths. It features a covered front porch, private screen porch and raised brick patio.

Interior design is by Bonnie Younginer of the Cobb/ Younginer Group.

Her touches are complemented by fabulous custom designed children’s bedrooms by

Baby Furniture Plus.

Capogrossi Construction Inc. has a winning tradition and excellent reputation with quality constructed singlefamily residences. Capogrossi Construction Inc. builds approximately 10 homes a year, ranging in size from 2,000 to 5,000 square feet.

Each home features the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail that has become a trademark of the houses he builds. They also offer exceptional value with creative floor plans, elegant designs and a variety of special features.

Jeffrey Capogrossi, Capogrossi Construction

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Home #1 Fast Facts Heavenly Bliss

By Capogrossi Construction (803) 865-3367 Sales by Lake Carolina Properties, LLC (803) 736-5253 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms 3,850 square feet • Brick, stone and shake exterior • Dining room boasts hardwood floor, decorative ceiling and custom painted walls by B. A. Hohman • Great room includes vaulted ceiling, fireplace with custom bookshelves, dry bar with frosted glass backsplash and decorative wine rack, wine cellar and beer refrigerator • Kitchen includes custom cabinets, granite countertops and exquisite mosaic blend backsplash • Kitchen also includes keeping room with fireplace, vaulted ceiling and access to patio • Owners’ suite includes trey ceiling with lighted dome, sitting area and hardwood floor • Master bath is a relaxing retreat including full body porcelain tile floor, rippled glass accent in shower and tub backsplash, tiled shower with frameless glass shower enclosure, air bubble tub, vaulted ceiling and large closet • Guest bedroom/retreat with private bath • Fabulous custom-designed children’s bedrooms, with airplane theme for boy and beautiful girl’s nursery • Area upstairs with built-in desk for study or work • Large finished room over the garage with surround sound • Elaborate trim and custom built-ins along with solid core doors throughout home • 3 car garage • Natural gas

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Home #2

The Lexington

by Essex Homes Southeast

By Sam Morton / Rendering by Lenker Design During recent economic challenges, Karl Haslinger, owner/ CEO of Essex Homes Southeast, went back to the drawing board to create a product that would offer homebuyers an affordable option with the features they desired. In 2010, the all-brick Hometown Collection was introduced, starting in the low $200s. The Lexington is part of this collection and has been so well received by the real estate community and prospective homebuyers that it accounted for more than 60 sales during 2010.

The Lexington features more than 4,100 square feet with five bedrooms, four and a half baths, a media room and bonus room.

The style of this home appeals to several different families because of the size and versatility of its design. It includes a private

downstairs guest suite that is perfect for visitors or in-laws. The upstairs provides ample room for growing families, working families and/or multiple entertaining areas.

The Essex Homes Southeast design team, Trina Haslinger and Gwen Ehlers, worked with Richard Couture of Whit-Ash to create a new age design with traditional values, focused around the lifestyle and cutting edge style of today’s families. The three designers blended their different ideas into a unique vision to create a home with soft colors, rich woods and comfortable fabrics. The Lexington is just one example of why Karl and Essex Homes Southeast received the Regal Award Builder Executive of the Year three years in a row.

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Home #2 Fast Facts The Lexington

By Essex Homes Southeast (803) 356-8301 Sales by Lake Carolina Properties, LLC, (803) 736-5253 and Doris Edwards/Donna Stevens, (803) 237-8305/(803) 960-3456 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms 4,120 square feet • Stone and brick exterior • Outdoor living area with covered porch • Multi-purpose media room with built-in bookcases • Laundry room designed with ample storage and folding area • Hand-scraped hardwood flooring throughout downstairs living area • Custom trim package with stained cabinetry and granite countertops in kitchen and hall baths • Butler’s pantry with wet bar and wine storage • Downstairs guest suite features trey ceiling and private bath with tiled shower • Whole house audio with multi-point volume control • Owner’s suite features barrel vault ceiling with vaulted sitting room and customdesigned closet • Owner’s suite bath has stained cabinetry, Carrarra marble, tiled shower with rainhead and jets • Coffered ceilings with custom trim detail in the dining and family rooms • Multi-functional kitchen with large walkin pantry and family workstation • Grand foyer with double glass door entry, 20 foot ceilings and custom trim detail • More than 4,100 square feet with room versatility to accommodate any lifestyle w w w. c o l u m b i a m e t ro . c o m

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Home #3

Huntwick Place

by Hallmark Homes International, Inc.

By Sam Morton / Rendering by Lenker Design Hallmark Homes International, led by president David Tuttle, has more than 20 years of custom home building experience in the Midlands. Huntwick Place stands out for its welcoming – and unique – porte cochère, which serves as both a covered entry into the home and a gateway to a large parking area and three car garage. The front of the home is set off by columns, shaker siding and metal roofing over the front window and porch. Huntwick Place boasts an open floor plan with sight lines that allow a view from the front door to the back yard.

A generously sized master suite stretches

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the length of the house downstairs and features his-and-hers walk in closets. Leading in from the garage is a mudroom, a flex storage room and a full-size laundry. Off the living area is a sweeping staircase that leads to a balcony overlooking the family room with its two-story ceiling. The balcony spans the breadth of the home and leads to two additional bedrooms that share a full bath and a finished room over the garage that could serve as a game room, office space, media room or storage. A third bedroom suite upstairs features an additional laundry space in the large walk-in closet.

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Home #3 Fast Facts Huntwick Place

By Hallmark Homes International (803) 736-5253 Sales by Lake Carolina Properties, LLC (803) 736-5253 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms 3,337+ square feet • Owners’ suite on main level • 3 secondary bedrooms on second level • 1.5 baths on main level, 2 private guest baths on second level • Open great room with dramatic ceilings • Formal dining plus breakfast area • Built-in beverage bar and wine bar • Large mudroom and storage area with separate laundry room • 10 foot ceilings first floor, 9 foot second, plus vaults • Oversized family play/media room on second level with wet bar, microwave and beverage refrigerator • Open gallery with iron rails • Secondary stackable laundry in guest suite • 3 car garage • Porte-cochère

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Home #4

The Berkshire Mungo Homes/Sovereign Homes

By Sam Morton / Rendering by Keith Floyd With its geometric lines and stone Star-certified home constructed of green exterior, Mungo Homes/Sovereign Homes building materials, and it carries a green gave this home an almost Tudor look. building certification. At 3,200 square feet, Except for the roomy tiled laundry, the the home has three bedrooms and threehouse has hardwoods throughout. The and-a-half baths plus a bonus room. The house’s fireplace is made of fieldstone, as is kitchen serves as an entertainment hub, a tall arched entryway that mirrors the front and a large island separates the cooking area from the breakfast nook, portico and leads from which rests within a bay the foyer to the main window. living space. All the The den ceiling is floors on the porches coffered, and each eightare made from matching foot-tall interior door fieldstone as well. extends nearly to the The living room is ceiling in each room. accented by a marvelous For outdoor living, barreled ceiling, and the house includes a the entire home is screened porch and a wired for television, separate patio with a communications and cozy fire pit. security systems. The Berkshire is an Energy Steven Mungo, Stewart Mungo, principals, The Mungo Companies CH22 C o lu m b i a M e t ro p o l i ta n

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Home #4 Fast Facts The Berkshire

By Mungo Homes/Sovereign Homes (803) 749-9000 Sales by Sovereign Homes (803) 513-1964 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms 3,231 square feet • Arts and crafts style stone, brick and fiber cement siding exterior • Expansive floor plan with master bedroom downstairs and 3-car garage • Stone arch in foyer and floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace • Arts and crafts style interior trim details • Beadboard barrel vaulted ceiling in the living room • Custom wainscoting, large crown moulding and trimmed boxed ceiling in dining room • Hand-sculpted hardwood floors in public areas and oak stairs • Dramatic designer kitchen with island featuring GE Café® appliances • Granite in kitchen, laundry room and all baths • 14-foot ceiling with beams in the great room, 10-foot ceilings with 8-foot doors downstairs, boxed ceiling in gracious master bedroom • Specialty tile work in all bathrooms • Custom frameless shower door, elegant custom closet and designer mirrors in the master bath • Beautiful landscaping, including a water feature in the backyard with a fire pit, screened porch and patio • Distributed audio, central vacuum, security system and structured wiring • Custom-built kid’s dream tree house in bonus room • Energy Star® and green features

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Home #5

Wilson Bridge

by Hallmark Homes International, Inc.

By Sam Morton / Rendering by Lenker Design Hallmark Homes International gave this home an English countryside feel with a stone and wood siding exterior and tall windows that allow for plenty of sunlight to brighten the interior. The keeping room has a vaulted ceiling and an inviting fireplace, and it adjoins a living room whose 20-foot ceiling gives it an open feel.

This home lends itself to multigenerational living. The main floor features the master suite, plus two guest bedrooms.

The master bedroom’s

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focal point is a large bay window overlooking the lawn, and a private entrance leads to the rear covered porch with a screen room option. The master bath contains both a soaking tub and a spa shower, as well as a separate water closet.

Upstairs are two additional bedrooms and a full bath, plus an unfinished bonus room and storage space.

One of the rooms could double as a study, media room or game room.

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Home #5 Fast Facts Wilson Bridge

By Hallmark Homes International (803) 736-5253 Sales by Lake Carolina Properties, LLC (803) 736-5253 4+ bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms 3,400+/- or 3,700 +/- square feet with bonus • Owner suite on main level • 3 guest bedrooms on second level • 2.5 baths main level, 1 bath second level • Relaxation room on second level • Music room with 10 foot ceiling • Vaulted family room with built-ins • Vaulted keeping room • 2 fireplaces with gas logs • Formal dining with 10 foot ceiling • Breakfast area with trey ceiling • Room over garage • Extended garage • Covered patio with automatic screen enclosure option included • Bay window sitting area in owner’s suite • Picture perfect outdoor seating area

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Columbia Metropolitan Home

Rebecca Rhodes and her family moved back into her childhood home several years ago.

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You Can Go Home Again Four Columbians move back to their childhood homes

By Melissa Andrews / Photography by Robert Clark

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hen Thomas Wolfe said you can’t go home again, he obviously hadn’t been to Columbia. There is something about our beautiful city that pulls many people back to their childhood homes.

Maybe it’s pure happenstance, perhaps it makes financial sense, or maybe some just can’t bear to see anyone else living in the homes that hold all of their childhood memories.

For Walker Williams, the timing was right for all involved. His parents were looking for a home with a bedroom on the first floor, and he and his wife, Laura, were considering expanding their family. “We knew we were going to have to find a larger house if we wanted to grow our family,” says Walker. “And my parents looking to move was the perfect catalyst. We moved into their house, which was much larger than the

one we had been living in. We begged, borrowed and stole to fill up the rooms and didn’t make too many immediate changes.” But as the years have passed, Walker and Laura have filled those rooms with beautiful furniture and memories of their own.

Katherine Anderson and her mother made a fair trade. Katherine and her boys moved into her mother’s larger house down the street and her mother,

Arthur Gudmundson and his wife, Marlow, have renovated the kitchen in his childhood home, but it still has the same original elements.

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who was looking to downsize, moved into Katherine’s smaller home. “My children were getting bigger by the instant, and we were quickly outgrowing our house,” Katherine says. “My mother said, ‘I have

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this big house and you have all of those boys, why don’t we trade?’” Katherine loved the idea. “My parents had bought the house when I was six years old. It’s a happy place with wonderful memories,

Katherine Anderson traded homes with her mother to accomodate her three teenage sons.

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Walker Williams and his wife, Laura, moved into his childhood home to make room for their growing family.

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and I love the neighborhood.”

The same stands true for Rebecca Rhodes. Her mother also was looking to downsize to a home with just one floor, and moving back into her childhood

home was an easy decision for Rebecca and her husband, Jim. “I just couldn’t take the thought of anyone else living in my home. I loved it that much.”

Arthur Gudmundson purchased his

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brother’s share of the house their mother had given them. The home is now a labor of love. “When you live in an old house, you need to be ready to do some work. I know every nook and cranny of this house, and I don’t mind taking the time to work on it.” Arthur and his wife, Marlow, completely renovated the kitchen and made various cosmetic changes, but many of the original elements of the home are still in place, right down to the screens in the window – a testament to the strong bones of older Columbia homes.

While the experiences of moving back into a childhood home are very different for each person, there are certain common threads you should consider when making such a decision. First and foremost, for these families, it was important not to change the character of the house, the charm that drew them to it. The simple task of changing paint colors and replacing wallpaper can make a dramatic difference and give the home a completely different look and feel. But keeping that in mind, each family was sure to take steps to make the home their own.

Fo r i n s t a n c e , t h e R h o d e s a n d Williams families enlisted the help of Nan Sammataro of In Home Design. Rebecca wasn’t afraid to make changes that would work better for her family, knocking out a wall here and there. But again, the overall feel of the home remained intact. She says, “The changes we made for our family made it our home, as well as the people in it. I have the familiarity of growing up there, but it still feels like ours. It’s a good mix.”

Laura agrees. “Changing the colors and bringing in your own things is important.

But you have to make sure it’s what you want for your family,” she says. Her husband adds, “Don’t move into a house just because it’s the house you grew up in.

Move in because you want it to be your home.”

The Anderson family enlarged their kitchen – a necessity with three teenage boys – but was careful not to erase the appeal of the house. Katherine, an interior designer herself and owner of Katherine J. Anderson Design/Interiors, says to use caution when making those initial changes.

“Go slowly. You might move in, change things quickly and zap the whole reason why you loved the house in the first place,” she says.

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restoration and updating of the house.

But sometimes, the way the house was is the way it should be. Arthur’s mother had invited an interior decorator into the home many years back for some design assistance. As you would expect, Arthur and his wife moved furniture and art work to different places when they moved in. Later, they brought their own interior decorator, Jenny Reynolds, to the home, and she moved every piece of furniture back to where the original designer had placed it. “Everything went back to where it was,” laughed Arthur.

“My mother could have walked back in the home and thought it was still hers.”

Certainly, purchasing a house is no small endeavor. It’s a true business transaction and should be treated as such. Walker says, “If you allow feelings and family desires to get in the way, it has the potential to hurt both parties financially. If you buy your parents’ home for less than it is worth, they have less money in retirement. If you pay more than you can afford, then you could carry an unnecessary burden for years to come. You have to make sure that the transaction is the right decision for both parties.”

The Rhodes family made sure they knew the true value of the house and ensured the exchange was fair for all involved. And for those looking to move into an older house, keep in mind renovations and changes will be inevitable. “Make sure you save money so that you can fix up the house the way you want it to be, so that you can make it your home,” advises Arthur.

One thing is for certain, moving into your childhood home can blend old memories with new. “It’s great because it brings you back to your childhood, but at the same time you create your own family memories,” says Rebecca.

And memories and stories are what keep generations alive. As Walker reflects, “When anyone asks me about living in my childhood home, I say the coolest part is when something happens. If my child trips on a root and skins his knee, I can say, ‘You know, I tripped on that very same root when I was a child and skinned my knee the same way. And here’s the scar.’ They think that’s very cool.” And with a story like that, the wounds heal that much quicker.

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Columbia Metropolitan Home

Feeling God’s Earth in Your Hands

Betty and Jimmy Gasque’s passion for life in the garden

By Margaret Clay / Photography by Emily Clay

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etty and Jimmy Gasque s a y, “ I n s i d e e v e r y garden is a glimpse of paradise,” and their garden is just that. Tucked away in Forest Acres, the small slice of heaven where the Gasques and their dog, Sally, reside simply bursts with flowers. Although the

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beginnings of the remarkable garden were there upon arrival, such as the now 30-foot tall Camellia bushes and many of the multi-colored azaleas, Heathwood Hall’s renowned English teacher and his wife have been transforming their front and back yards into

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Betty and Jimmy Gasque, with their dog Sally, have transformed their yard into a gardener’s paradise.

The

kiss of the sun for pardon, T h e s o ng o f t h e birds for mirth, One is nearer God’s heart in a garden Than anywhere else on earth.

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exquisite gardens since the spring of 1962.

“If you don’t work in your own yard, you will never appreciate it,” explains Jimmy.

Both Betty’s and Jimmy’s mothers were ardent gardeners, so they claim their passion was just bred into their hearts. In fact, they have irises blooming from both of their mothers’ gardens, and a phlox from Jimmy’s grandmother’s garden.

However, a six-week summer trip to England in 1985 inspired them to take their garden to the next level.

The Gasques have organized their garden into a myriad of small “rooms” which flow from one to another. The 4th of July Garden explodes with flowers of patriotic hues, and the South Carolina Garden contains the botanical favorites of our state. The mountain garden is like stepping into the upstate with its beautiful rhododendron and a hemlock tree from Linville; they even have a fountain to simulate a babbling mountain stream. Betty takes much care in the summer time to convince these plants that they are not far from home. She regularly sprays the hemlock tree down to emulate the mountain dew.

They have a section for vegetables as well — arugula and mustard greens, bell peppers and tomatoes. They take pleasure in entertaining dinner guests with edible flowers, like pansies or nasturtiums, to top off salads.

Because there are few straight lines in nature, the Gasques use interesting curves in their garden.

“We try to cultivate every inch of our lot,” smiles Betty. Jimmy maintains that the upkeep on grass is more difficult than flowers, and through the years he has gradually converted most of the grassy areas to rooms of the garden.

In front of their house, the Gasques have a tulip poplar, a great-grandchild from the tree growing at Thomas Jefferson’s grave in Monticello. Remarkably, Sally has never disturbed anything in the garden … well, except maybe digging up a few daffodils recently in order to retrieve bone meal, a dog-delicacy!

Betty also has a passion for ornithology and attracts over 25 varieties of birds to their garden, of which the white throated sparrow is her absolute favorite! This migratory bird arrives just about the time of Betty’s birthday each year in October and typically waits until just after Jimmy’s birthday in April to depart northward.

The Gasques primarily shop at Mill Creek Greenhouses, their “gardening Mecca.”

“We drive up sometimes with no idea of what we are shopping for, but we always leave with a car full!” laughs Betty.

“I have gone there and found things I

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had only heard about. I was able to find Faulkner’s tall, lemon verbena, which smells ‘stronger than courage,’” says Jimmy.

“My favorite flower is the state fair zinnia,” states Betty, “and last year some grew taller than I am.” This annual flower comes in about every color and is lovely to mix in with daisies.

To Jimmy, his garden is like his classroom — the effort of cultivating each individual and then reaping the joy of their producing is quite rewarding.

“I have encouraged my flowers verbally when they seem to need it, telling them that I know they can make it,” says Jimmy, supporting the popular idea of talking to one’s plants.

“Although,” he admits, “I don’t think you would want to hear what I said to the last set of hybrid tea roses that we finally had to get rid of — I was not very nice. I had begged and begged them to grow and they just wouldn’t, so the only roses we have now are old roses.”

Betty laughs, “I don’t know that I have ever indulged in speaking to any of the flowers.”

Instead, when a particular plant is not doing so well, Betty employs George Washington Carver’s tactic of a plant hospital. This entails moving the plant to a new environment with different sun exposure and giving it lots of attention, such as extra water.

Betty admits her favorite parts of gardening range from weeding and just digging her hands into the dirt, to cutting the flowers for the house or to share with friends.

“You just have to share it; it is such a joy!” she exclaims.

It is rare that Betty misses a chance to be in the garden as most days she spends a portion of her time there -- sometimes up to five hours throughout the day.

“I just can’t wait to get into it, and it’s always hard to come out of our paradise!” she says. “I am renewed when I am working in my garden: digging, pruning, deadheading, moving, watering. Later, the glory explodes with new life to refresh everyone I know.”

“It is imperative to feel God’s earth in your hands,” asserts Jimmy. “I just love being on the ground. As Dorothy Gurney wrote: ‘The kiss of the sun for pardon, the song of the birds for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.’”

However, Jimmy claims, “Nothing puts me in a garden the way that Gerard Manley Hopkins’ poem Spring does.”

Nothing is so beautiful as spring— When weeds, in wheels, shoot long and lovely and lush; ..................................

What is all this juice and all this joy?

A strain of the earth’s sweet being in the beginning In Eden garden.

The Gasques’ most important success tip is to have a passion and love for your garden: “It can’t be toil to you but should be passion and love, or you won’t enjoy any of it.

There is such life in the garden!”

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New to the neighborhood?

New Home Communities indicates a natural gas community

1. Allan’s Mill Price Range of New Homes: $100s - $160s School District: Richland 2 Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Mark Wright, (803) 404-1983 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take Percival Rd. to Smallwood. Turn left on Old Percival Rd. Allan’s Mill is on the right.

2. Chelsea Park Price Range of New Homes: $179,900 - $204,900 School District: Lexington Richland 5 Rymarc Homes (803) 732-0118 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-26 West to exit 97 for Hwy 176/Peak. Take an immediate right on Julius Richardson. Proceed .7 miles to end.

Turn right at West Shadygrove. The Chelsea Park entrance is .2 miles on left. Turn left into Chelsea Park on Heathwood. Turn right on Newton Rd., and the new phase is straight ahead.

3. Concord Park Price Range of New Homes: $160s School District: Lexington 2 C and C Builders of Columbia Tina Horne, (803) 736-5008

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www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-77 to exit 2 for 12th St. Extension. Turn left on Taylor Rd. behind Busbee Middle School.

4. Heath Pond Price Range of New Homes: $140s - $250s School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Diane Nevitt, (803) 414-3945; Dan Long, (803) 917-0947 www.DianeNevitt.com Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 87 for White Pond/Elgin. Turn left onto White Pond Rd., then left onto Larry Jeffers Rd. Heath Pond is ahead on the right.

5. The Homestead Subdivision Price Range of New Homes: $130s - $200s School District: Richland 2 EXIT Real Estate Solutions Richard Carr, (803) 421-9630 www.ExitColumbiaSC.com Directions: Take I-77 North to Farrow Rd. North. Turn right onto Hardscrabble, then right onto North Brickyard. Homestead Subdivision is on the left.

6. Jacobs Creek Price Range of New Homes: $124,900 - $224,900

Visit www.columbiametro.com for more Resource Guides

School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes RMS – Realty & Marketing Services Robert Penny, (803) 360-9165 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 82 for Spears Creek Church Rd. Turn left onto Spears Creek Church Rd. Continue for three miles and cross Two Notch Rd. Jacob’s Creek will be approximately 1/2 mile ahead on the right. Follow signs to the new model home.

7. Lake Frances Price Range of New Homes: $169,900 - $194,900 School District: Lexington 1 Rymarc Homes (803) 315-6409 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-20 to exit 55 for Hwy 6 East. Turn right at Hwy 6 East/S. Lake Dr., and continue for 3.6 miles. Turn left at Platt Springs Rd., and continue for 3.5 miles. Take a sharp right at Ramblin Rd., and go .5 mile. Turn right into Lake Frances on Lake Frances Way. 8. Lexington Villas Price Range of New Homes: $184,900 - $273,900 School District: Lexington 1

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Epcon Communities Jennah Wells, (803) 520-4381 www.LexingtonVillas.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 61 for Hwy 378/Sunset Blvd.

Turn right, and go four miles toward Lake Murray. Turn right onto Whiteford Way. Lexington Villas will be ahead on the left.

9. The Lofts at Printers Square Price Range of New Homes: $749,000 - $1,550,000 School District: Richland 1 Coldwell Banker United, Realtors® Danny & Karen Hood, (803) 227-3220 or (803) 227-3221 www.LoftsAtPrintersSquare.com Directions: In the Vista, the Lofts at Printers Square are at the corner of Lady and Pulaski streets.

10. LongCreek Plantation Price Range of New Homes: $250,000 - $650,000 School District: Richland 2 Plantation Properties (803) 754-2071 www.longcreekplantation.com Directions: Take I-77 North to the Killian Rd. exit, and turn right.

Follow the signs to LongCreek Plantation.

11. Peach Grove Villas Price Range of New Homes: $184,900 - $273,900 School District: Richland 2 Epcon Communities Levi Weisser, (803) 223-9545 www.PeachGroveVillas.com Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 80. Turn left onto Clemson Rd.

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Go 1.5 miles (towards the Village at Sandhill), and turn right onto Earth Rd. Peach Grove Villas is located on the right just before the entrance to Woodcreek Farms.

12. Pine Forest Price Range of New Homes: $120s - $180s School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Diane Nevitt, (803) 414-3945 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-20 East to the Elgin exit. Turn left onto White Pond Rd. Continue to the traffic light in Elgin, crossing Main St./ Hwy 1. Cross railroad tracks, and bear right onto Smyrna Rd. Pine Forest is on the left about a mile ahead.

13. Quail Creek Price Range of New Homes: $100s - $150s School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Diane Nevitt, (803) 414-3945 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-20 East to the Elgin exit. Turn left onto White Pond Rd. Continue to the traffic light in Elgin, crossing Main St./ Hwy 1. Cross railroad tracks, and bear right onto Smyrna Rd. Turn right onto Wildwood Ln., and then left onto Cook Rd. then left into Quail Creek community.

14. Rabon’s Farm Price Range of New Homes: $79,900 - $159,900 School District: Richland 2 Great Southern Homes RMS – Realty & Marketing Services

Lauren Sawyer, (803) 360-4327; Sandy Cleaves, (803) 622-9065 www.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-77 North to Two Notch Rd. exit. Turn right onto Two Notch, then left onto Rabon Rd. Turn right onto Flora Dr. Rabon’s Farm is .5 mile ahead on the right. Take second entrance, and model home is on the left.

15. Rutledge Place Price Range of New Homes: $125,000 - $225,000 School District: Kershaw Palmetto Homes & Land Realty, LLC Barbara Jordan, (803) 243-0524; Steve King, (803) 600-9414 www.barbarajordan.homesandland.com Directions: Take I-20 East to exit 98. Turn left onto Hwy 521 North. Continue 5.7 miles through Camden. Rutledge Place is ahead on the left on Edinburgh Castle Rd. 16. Saluda River Club Price Range of New Homes: Townhomes from the $200s; Craftsman Homes from the $300s; Executive Homes from the $500s; Village District Homesites from the $60s; River District Homesites from $113,900 School District: Lexington 1 Saluda River Club Edmund H. Monteith, Jr., (803) 358-3969 www.saludariverclub.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 61 for Hwy 378. Turn right, and take an immediate right onto Corley Mill Rd. The entrance to Saluda River Club is located 1.9 miles down Corley Mill Rd. on the right.

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17. South Brook Price Range of New Homes: $134,900 - $152,900 School District: Lexington 1 Rymarc Homes (803) 315-6409 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 51. Turn left, and South Brook is on the left.

18. Spring Knoll Price Range of New Homes: $120s - $150s School District: Lexington 1 Thomas Shumpert, (803) 518-2588 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take I-20 West to Hwy 6. Turn left toward Red Bank/ Pelion. Go about 4 miles, and turn right onto Platt Springs Rd. Take the first road to the left, which is Brevard Rd. 19. Stoney Creek Price Range of New Homes: $220s - $280s School District: Lexington 1 ReMax Real Estate Consultants Thomas Shumpert, (803) 518-2588 www.candcbuilders.com Directions: Take Hwy 378 through Lexington, and turn right onto Wise Ferry Rd. Stoney Creek is ahead on the left.

20. Stonington Price Range of New Homes: $169,900 - $199,900 School District: Richland 2 Rymarc Homes (803) 732-0118 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-77 North to exit 24. Turn left onto Wilson Blvd.

Stonington will be one mile on the right.

21. The Thomaston Subdivision Price Range of New Homes: $160s - $200s School District: Richland 2 EXIT Real Estate Solutions Richard Carr, (803) 421-9630 www.ExitColumbiaSC.com Directions: Take I-77 North to exit 22. Turn right onto Killian Rd., then left onto Longreen Pkwy. Thomaston Subdivision is on the left.

22. Wellesley Price Range of New Homes: $170,900 - $194,900 School District: Lexington 1 Rymarc Homes (803) 808-1201 www.rymarc.com Directions: Take I-20 West to exit 61 for US 378/ Lexington. Merge right on US 378, and turn left at the first light onto Ginny Ln. Continue to community ahead on the right.

23. Westcott Ridge Price Range of New Homes: $220s to $400,000 School District: Lexington/Richland 5 (Chapin) Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, Inc. Brenda Berry, (803) 781-6552 www.westcottridge.com Directions: Take I-26 West to exit 97 for Hwy 176/Peak. Turn right onto Broad River Rd. Continue 1 mile, and Westcott Ridge is on the left.

This listing is provided by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia.

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