Fall is here. Schools are back in session and it’s time for football season. Temperatures are cooling and tailgaters are planning their football shenanigans. September is my favorite month of the year. The leaves begin to change colors and both my wife’s birthday and our anniversary occur each September.
The 50th Annual Okra Strut takes place September 27-28 at the Irmo Community Park and is a weekend full of music, food and family fun.
Congratulations to all the 2025 Irmo-Chapin Life nominees! I encourage you to vote for your favorites at irmochapinlife.com. The winners in each category will be announced in the November/December edition of Irmo-Chapin Life. Here at Irmo-Chapin Life Magazine, our team has been extremely busy expanding our Chapin coverage area by adding 2,500 new households to our mailing list. We are thankful for the hundreds of businesses that provide community support by trusting their marketing efforts with IrmoChapin Life Magazine. I assure you, we are locally owned and operated and believe in doing business with other fellow small businesses. Working together, we can continue to grow and provide the best in goods and services to both the Irmo, Chapin, Lexington, Columbia and surrounding communities.
Thanks for reading Irmo-Chapin Life Magazine. Enjoy the change of season and I’ll look forward to seeing you here again in November.
Todd Shevchik
CALENDAR OFevents
SEPT- OCT
Saturday, September 14
Lakeside Litter Sweep
Lake Murray | 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Keep the Midlands Beautiful invites you to join them in cleaning up litter on the islands and shorelines around Lake Murray. Pre-registration is required by Sept. 6th. Volunteers will receive a T-shirt, lunch, thank you gift, and a chance to win prizes from local businesses. Learn more at kmbsc.org.
Thursday, September 19 – Sunday, September 22
Columbia’s 37th Annual Greek Festival
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1931 Sumter St. | Columbia
Enjoy the music, atmosphere, food and drink, and learn a little about Greece. Visit columbiasgreekfestival.com for more information.
Friday, September 20
Outdoor Movie Night - Migration
Crooked Creek Park | 1098 Old Lexington Hwy Chapin | 6:30 pm
Pack up your family and friends, bring blankets and chairs, and enjoy a movie on the big screen under the stars. Food Trucks will have food to purchase. Presented by Seacoast Church. For more information visit icrc.net.
Friday, September 27 & Saturday, September 28
Lexington Medical Center’s Irmo Okra Strut Festival
Irmo Community Park | 7473 Church St. | Irmo The family fun, live music, and all the good-
ness that is Okra. Individual fees apply for rides, amusements, and food/drink. For more information visit okrastrut.com.
Monday, October 2
Tech Talk: Computer Literacy
Irmo Branch Library | 6251 St Andrews Rd Columbia | 6:00 pm
Discuss questions about computers, the internet, and all things technology. Participants are encouraged, but not required, to bring their devices. Ages 18+. For more information visit lexcolibrary.com.
Saturday, October 5
Fall Art Festival
Chapin Town Hall | 157 NW Columbia Ct. Chapin | 9 am – 4 pm
Celebrate the season with art, artists, diverse vendors, food, and music.
Sunday, October 13
Fall Fido Festival
Melvin Park | 370 A Eptings Camp Rd. Chapin | 1 pm – 4 pm
Grab your furry friends and celebrate one of the most anticipated dog-friendly events of the year. A percentage of ticket sales will go directly to the rescue and nonprofit. Visit fallfidofestival.com for more information.
Thursday, October 17
Irmo Chamber Fall Golf Tournament
Mid Carolina Club
3593 Kibler’s Bridge Rd. Prosperity
Sponsored by Reliable Technology Solutions, this event will be Captain’s Choice
format. Registration and lunch will be at noon with a 1:30 pm Shot Gun Start. Please note: This is a rain-or-shine event. For more information contact events@greaterirmochamber.com.
Thursday, October 24
Gala for Growth
Cooperative Conference Center
169 Laurelhurst Ave.| Columbia | 6 pm – 9 pm
The District 5 Foundation for Education Excellence will host their annual fundraising gala with a silent auction, live auction, and DJ. For more information visit district5foundation.org.
faithMATTERS
BRIAN ADLEMAN
Campus Pastor
Seacoast Church Irmo Campus
411 Western Lane, Irmo Service Times: Sundays 9 am & 10:30 am seacoast.org/irmo
THE BATTLE OF THE MIND: WINNING THE MENTAL GAME
Have you ever wondered how some people can fall asleep at night without a single thought racing through their minds? On the flip side, many of us find our minds filled with an overwhelming rush of thoughts as soon as we lay down. Ironically, most of us are married to the opposite: one drifts off easily while the other struggles to find peace.
The mind is indeed a complex thing, dictating everything about us. No wonder we often feel like life is just one big mental game. Recently, my family entered the world of competitive baseball, which has led to some great conversations with my 9-year-old son. Expressing that learning the skills is important, mental preparation is even more crucial. As Yogi Berra once said, “Baseball is 90 percent mental. The other half is physical.” Although mathematically puzzling, we understand his point: our mental state significantly influences our performance and outcomes.
Galatians 5:17 states, “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.” This passage highlights the internal struggle we face between our fleshly desires and spiritual aspirations, a reflection of our daily mental battles.
Our minds can be easily influenced, and sometimes even small things can boost our confidence. When I was in high school, I believed that a chain wallet would help me meet a girl at the mall. So, I bought one and, lo and behold, met a girl. While the wallet didn’t directly cause this to happen, it convinced me I could. Don’t laugh too hard, I was only 14. These seemingly trivial influences remind us that winning the battle of the mind can change our lives.
2 Corinthians 10:5 says, “Take every thought captive to obey Christ.” By immersing ourselves in Scripture and declaring truths over our lives, we strengthen our minds against negative influences and lead ourselves in a better direction.
When a thought enters our mind, we must quickly discern whether it aligns with God’s word. Redirecting our attention from negative thoughts to God’s truth prevents those thoughts from taking root. In everyday scenarios, such as parenting or dealing with stress, making quick decisions that align with our values is crucial.
Navigating everyday decisions requires proactive steps to avoid temptation and make the right choices. Knowing who God says we are helps us discipline ourselves and walk toward His promises. The battle of the mind is a daily struggle, but by taking our thoughts captive and aligning them with God’s word, we can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and grace. n
IRMO-CHAPINleader
by Mary Ann Hutcheson
Ed Davis
Ed Davis recently finished his first year as principal of Chapin High School and his twenty-fifth year in education. Chosen in June of 2023, after four years as principal at Chapin Intermediate School, Davis has traveled many roads in the field of education.
Along the way, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication, a Social Studies Teaching Certification from the University of Michigan, a Master of Education Administration degree from Northeastern Illinois University, and an Education Specialist degree from the University of South Carolina.
Davis was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He attended schools there, including a Magnet Program at Martin Lu-
ther King High School where he enrolled in the International Center for Studies and Commerce program. He also ran track and played football. Davis graduated all-American and was heavily recruited by universities. His strong grades and impressive football record earned him a full scholarship to study at the University of Michigan, where he studied hard, played football, and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
Davis tried out for a pro team after graduation. He signed as a free agent for the Detroit Lions and attended their summer camp. Although he did not make the team, he is grateful for the experience.
Davis returned to the University of Michigan to earn his teaching certification while also serving as a graduate assistant. As part of the program, he was assigned a student in an afterschool program. His profound and positive connection with that student crystallized his calling as a teacher.
During that time, Davis met his future wife, Danielle. He moved to Chicago,
where Danielle had been accepted for her post-graduate program. The couple soon married, and Davis’ teaching career took off when he was hired at William Howard Taft High School on the northeast side of Chicago where he taught Social Studies and seventh and eighth grade gifted students in the school’s new Magnet Program. He says, “I taught both Middle and High school in the same building on the same day because of that program.” Throughout his career, he sometimes “got the itch” to see what else was ahead, and he was always ready.
In 2009, Davis and his family moved to the Ballentine area and eventually to Chapin. Davis says he’s left each assignment on his way to the next with positive and happy memories, leading him to where he is now. “Chapin is a chance for me to serve a great community,” he says.
The couple attends Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia and has two children, Micah and Caleb. n
University of South Carolina Football Preview
University of South Carolina Gamecocks Football Schedule
August
September
September 21
October 5
October 12
October 19
November 2
November 9
November 16
November 23
November 30
As Shane Beamer enters his fourth year as head coach for South Carolina, many people believe the Gamecocks need a winning season for Coach Beamer to keep his job. Last year, the Gamecocks had a disappointing 5-7 record with tough losses to Texas A&M, Tennessee, and Clemson, all teams they defeated in 2022. As well as losses to Florida and Georgia, both games they were leading in but could not come out on top. Even though the Gamecocks declined in 2023, the team has new talent that brings hope to the 2024 season.
LaNorris Sellers is starting at the quarterback spot this season in his sophomore year. There is a lot of hype behind Sellers, due to his performances on the field last year, including a 50-yard touchdown throw against Furman, and a 36-yard touchdown run against Vanderbilt. Sellers has plenty of wide receiver talent around him, with transfers Jared Brown, Ahmari Huggins-Bruce, Gage Larvadain, and Dalevon Campbell, as well as tight end talent with returner Joshua Simon and transfer Brady Hunt. The wide receiver with the most anticipation is Nyck Harbor, a sophomore from Washington D.C. who had 12 catches for 195 yards and one touchdown last season. But what makes him special is his speed, Harbor is also a track star for the Gamecocks and runs the 100-meter in 10.11 seconds.
The Gamecocks hope to improve their ground game with running back transfer Raheim Sanders, who rushed for 1,443 for Arkansas in 2022. They have returners Djay Braswell and Juju McDowell, and transfer Oscar Adaway III, to back him up.
The defensive line adds two new transfers Kyle Kennard and Gilber Edmond on the edges complimenting veteran Gamecock tackles Alex Huntley and Kyle Kennard. The linebacker and secondary groups are all returners for the Gamecocks. They are led by veteran cornerback O’Donnell Fortune, strong safety Nick Emmanwori, free safety DQ Smith, and middle linebacker Debo Williams who was third in the SEC in total tackles last year.
Beamer Ball will be top-notch this season with 5th year senior and All-American punter Kai Kroeger and freshman kicker Mason Love.
South Carolina’s first game is Saturday, August 31st against Old Dominion at Williams-Brice Stadium. The game will air on the SEC Network at 4:15 pm. n
As Dabo Swinney enters his 16th full season as head coach at Clemson, he looks to bounce back from a somewhat disappointing 2023 season for Clemson. They had a 9-4 record last year, their worst since the 2010 season. Even though Coach Swinney still doesn’t use the portal, he continues to build talented teams through high school recruiting and this year’s is top-notch.
As Cade Klubnik goes into his second season as the starting quarterback, he looks to repeat their success from the end of last year’s season, winning their five final games. He will be complemented by standout running back Phil Mafah, who rushed for 965 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. Klubnik has great targets to throw to with sophomores Tyler Brown and Antonio Williams and juniors Adam Randall and Troy Stellato. All four receivers and their senior tight end Jake Briningstool are experienced and have significant playing time.
Clemson’s offensive line remains the same as last year, with their entire offense returning except Will Shipley and Beaux Collins. An experienced offensive who has played together and played for the same coach is a recipe for success in college football. The Tiger’s offensive is looking great for the 2024 season.
As for players returning for the Tigers, it’s almost the opposite on defense. The defensive line for Clemson has one returning starter, defensive end T.J. Parker. The other three linemen are experienced though, including the highly touted sophomore, Peter Woods. In the linebacker group, both Barrett Carter and Wade Woodaz are returning veterans for the Tigers, while promising sophomore Kobe McCloud is stepping into the shoes of NFL draftee Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
The secondary for Clemson has two sophomore cornerbacks, Avieon Terrell and Shelton Lewis, as well as a junior Jeadyn Lukus, all three who will be seeing the field a lot. The safety group is led by Khalil Barnes, who had three interceptions last season for the Tigers. This defense did lose five players to the NFL draft last year, but there is a lot of talent in the guys filling their spots and looking to bring Clemson back to their glory days.
Clemson’s first game will be Saturday, August 31st against Georgia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the Aflac Kickoff. The game will air on ABC at noon. n
Clemson University Football Preview
by Benjamin Johnson
August 31
September 7
September 21
September 28
October 5
October 12
October 19
November 2
November 9
November 16
November 23 November 30
PA
KAMINER AND DAIKIN TOGETHER ARE A WINNING COMBINATION.
HIGH SCHOOL
FOOTBALL
Irmo Yellow Jackets
August 23 Oceanside Collegiate
August 30 James Byrnes
September 6 @ Butler
September 13 @Carolina Forest
September 20 Myrtle Beach
October 4 @Lexington
October 11 River Bluff
October 18 @White Knoll
October 25 Chapin
November 1
@Dutch Fork
Chapin Eagles
August 23 @Catawba Ridge
August 30
September 6
September 13
A.C. Flora
@Spring Valley
Newberry
September 20 @Summerville
October 4
October 11
Dutch Fork
Lexington
October 18 @ River Bluff
October 25 @Irmo
November 1
White Knoll
Dutch Fork Silver Foxes
August 30 @Spartanburg
September 6 @Ridgeview
September 13 Gray Collegiate
September 20 Oceanside
October 4 @Chapin
October 11 White Knoll
October 18 @Lexington
October 25 @River Bluff
November 1 Irmo
Ben Lippen Falcons
August 16 First Baptist School
August 30 @Trinity Collegiate
September 6 Wilson Hall
September 13 @Cardinal Newman
September 20 Northwood Academy
September 27 Laurence Manning Academy
October 4 @Porter-Gaud
October 10 @Heathwood Hall
October 25 Hammond
November 1 Augusta Christian
THE INSIDE TRACK ON THE CAROLINA CROSSROADS PROJECT
by Marilyn Thomas
Motorists traveling around and through South Carolina have been enjoying the benefits of its superior interstate systems (unlike the backroads of yesteryear) for more than half a century. In fact, thoroughfares such as Interstates 20 and 26 have contributed to the economic progress and population explosion that the Midlands region has experienced in recent years. The corresponding traffic generated by this boom, however, has outpaced the efficiency of some of the configurations along these roadways. Although exceptional and expedient when constructed, certain passages of this infra-
structure—such as the notorious Malfunction Junction—are now overdue for an overhaul. In response to the public’s concerns, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has developed and implemented the “Carolina Crossroads” project to resolve troubling congestion and safety issues and to prepare Columbia for a better future.
As a thriving metropolitan hub, the Columbia area has been well served for decades by two primary interstate systems: I-26 and I-20. I-26 is a major thoroughfare that diagonally traverses South Carolina, while I-20 is the main east-to-
west roadway that extends across most of the state. Both motorways were constructed between the 1950s and 1960s in response to the Federal-Aid Highway Act, a game-changing project that was spearheaded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Along their combined 362-mile span, these highways intersect with other strategic interstates and connect several larger metropolitan areas, as well as scores of small towns and municipalities, to promote commerce and community. When first constructed, these high-quality road systems were designed to improve and facilitate traffic flow and provide easi-
er access to areas throughout and beyond the state, which they certainly did achieve. Over time, however, many of the urban regions on their pathways experienced unprecedented growth in both the population and economy, and along with this positive surge, a corresponding uptick in traffic counts also occurred.
Columbia is not immune to the congestion that a dramatic increase in traffic flow can create, and one of its most infamous bottlenecking debacles is the complicated cloverleaf interchange between Interstates 20 and 26. Located a few miles northeast of the capital city, this intersection has been informally and aptly labeled as “Malfunction Junction,” since acute safety and slowdown issues commonly occur at this complex site.
In response to mounting concerns, a South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) team began working on a solution, and in July 2017, this state government agency announced the rollout of a 10-year plan to reconstruct and improve the local infrastructure within and around this challenging convergence in Columbia. This $2.08-billion endeavor is funded by the SCDOT using a combination of federal and state funds. Under the direction of South Carolina’s transportation secretary, Justin Powell, and in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration, this project has been dubbed the Carolina Crossroads I-20/26/126 Corridor Improvement Project (abbreviated as “Carolina Crossroads”).
A statistical analysis published by the SCDOT on traffic patterns associated with this roadway strongly supports the decision to take immediate action to address this dire situation, as demonstrated by the following facts:
n More than 134,000 vehicles travel through this road section every day.
n Between now and 2040, the Midlands region’s population is projected to grow an average of 70 percent, and this will
undoubtedly lead to an increase in traffic flow. As the number of vehicles using these roads increases, so will the correlating congestion.
n After the construction is completed, the average commuter through the I-20/26/126 corridor is projected to save an estimated 112 hours of travel time each year.
The expected outcomes of this improvement project are ambitious but assuring. According to Brian Klauk, the project director for Carolina Crossroads with the SCDOT’s Office of Alternative Delivery, “The highway project will reconfigure 14 miles of the I-20, I-26, and I-126 corridor, including the area commonly known as Malfunction Junction.” Ultimately, the “goals” of the Carolina Crossroads project are to “accommodate future traffic needs, reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety throughout the corridor, and improve freight mobility.”
In addition to revamping and/or reconstructing 43 new bridges and 7 interchanges, issues related to several key sections of
Phase 1 I-126 / Colonial Life Boulevard improvements
Phase 2 I-20 / Broad River Road improvements
Phase 3A Utility and frontage road relocation program
Phase 3B Clearing and grubbing
Phase 3C I-20 widening
Phase 3D I-26 / I-126 improvements
Phase 3E I-20 / I-26 system-to-system interchange
Phase 4 & 5 I-26 widening
the interstate corridor, in both Lexington and Richland Counties, will also be addressed. Specifically, these identified sections include “I-20 near 378 to the Broad River crossing, I-26 from Broad River Road to US Highway 378, and I-126 from I-26 to Colonial Life Boulevard,” explains Project Director Klauk.
The project, which is comprised of five multifaceted phases, as summarized in the table below, has already been initiated, as evidenced by the daily construction activity clearly and vigorously underway along the affiliated thoroughfares.
Although the goals of these phases are ordered consecutively, some overlap will occur in the execution process. “Separate phases of the project will be under construction simultaneously, depending on the type of work and location,” says Project Director Klauk. “However, this sequencing is being strategically planned to minimize traffic disruption and provide significant quality-of-life improvements throughout the process, ensuring that the public will notice substantial changes be-
Timelines
Anticipated completion: 2024
Anticipated completion: 2025
Relocations already started: 2023
Estimated construction start: early 2025
Estimated construction start: 2025-2026
Estimated construction start: 2026-2027
Estimated construction start: 2028-2029
Estimated construction start: 2026-2027
fore the project’s completion.”
Commenced in 2021, “Phases 1 and 2 are nearing completion,” says Project Director Klauk. While Phase 3A began most recently, Phases 3D and 3E will involve the restructuring of the main interchange areas targeted by the Carolina Crossroads project—the I-20/I-26 interchange and the I-26/I-126 interchange.
“Examples of substantial changes that have taken place to date,” adds Project Director Klauk, “are the new exit lane for traffic leading from I-20 westbound to I-26 westbound, the new ramp from I-26 eastbound to US 378, the relocation of Garner Lane, and the opening of a new bridge on Broad River Road.”
During this extended and extensive undertaking, drivers may continue to experience some frustration (and perhaps even confusion) as they maneuver through and around these evolving roadways and the corresponding obstacles this renovation may occasionally present. To preserve the integrity of everyone in the community—including other drivers and construction workers—safety must be the foremost concern of all motorists. “We also ask that drivers be cautious and slow down when traveling in work zones,” says Project Director Klauk.
To possibly circumvent delays, Project Director Klauk advises, “Drivers can plan their route ahead of time by visiting 511sc. org or downloading the 511SC app on their phone.” To find out additional information about the project and its progress, including regularly updated traffic alerts, motorists can visit the Carolina Crossroads website at scdotcarolinacrossroads.com.
The public can also access SCDOT’s statewide website at scdot.org for supplemental traffic, traveling, and transportation-related resources. n
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Generations of Chapin
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Bowen Law Firm
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Aun & McKay Law Offices
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Affordable Hearing
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Christian Brothers Automotive, Irmo
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Ameris Bank
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Farm Boy Barbeque
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Doss Marine
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Carter CPA
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Best Credit Union
Palmetto Citizens Federal
Credit Union
Safe Federal Credit Union
SC State Credit Union
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Conquest Homes
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Nextar Homes
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Dance Department
Dance World
The Southern Strutt
Best Day Spa
Aquarius Spa and Salon
Blue Lavender Spa
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Best Décor & Rug Gallery
Lux Home
Rug Gallery of Lexington
Whit-Ash Furnishing
Best Dentist – Adults
Chapin Dental Associates
Dr. Eddie Taylor, Great White Smiles
Dr. Fulton Family Dentistry
Best Dentist – Kids
Collins Children’s Dentistry
Lake Murray Pediatric Dentistry
Tiny Teeth
Best Dermatologist
Carolinas Dermatology
Columbia Dermatology
Columbia Skin Clinic
Best Doggie Daycare Pet Vacations
Wescott Acres Pet Luxury Resort
The Woods Canine Resort
Best Exterminator
Baine Pest Control
Cramer Pest Control
Modern Exterminating
Best Facial
Art of Aesthetics Med Spa
Blue Lavender Spa
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Family Entertainment
Emeralds Party Entertainment
Flight Adventure
Stars and Strikes
Best Family Practice
Chapin Family Practice
Lexington Family Practice, Ballentine
Three Rivers Medical
Best Fast Food Cash’s Chicken
Chick-Fil-A Hardees
Best Fine Dining
Bistro on the Blvd
Chophouse of Chapin
Tavern on 6
Best Fitness Center
Kingfisher Strength
The Pilates Sculpt Studio
Sozo Family Fitness
Best Flower Shop
American Floral
B&B Florist
Lake Murray Flower Shoppe
Best Funeral Home
Caughman-Harman Funeral Home
Dunbar Funeral Home – Dutch
Fork Chapel
Whitaker Funeral Home
Best Furniture Store
Haverty’s Furniture
Poore House Furnishings
Sugar Creek Amish Furniture
Best Garden Center
B.B Barnes of Irmo
Botanica Nursery & Landscape
Wingard’s Market
Best General Contractor
Complete Solutions Contracting
Dutch Fork Renovations
Master Construction Company
Best Glass Store
Bigger Glass Company
Century Glass
Sheppard’s Glass Shop
Best Hair Salon
Bedazzled Salon
The Color Bar
Hyde Salon
Best Hairstylist
Chelsea Calvert, The Upper Cut
Lexi Ivanko, Hyde Salon
Amy Renee, Infinity Studio
Best Hardware Store
Boland’s Ace Hardware
Home Depot
Lowes Homes Improvement, Harbison
Best Heart Doctor
Dr. Dan Bouknight, CCVA
Dr. Amy Epps, LMC
Dr. Garrison Morgan, MUSC
Best Heating & Air
Kaminer Heating & Cooling
Mid State Heating & Air
Richardson’s Heating & Air
Best Home Builder
Great Southern Homes
McGuinn Hybrid Homes
Mungo Homes
Best Hospice
Agape Care SC
Lighthouse Hospice
Medical Services of America
Best Insurance – Auto
Irmo Insurance Agency
Russell-Massey & Company
Theresa Miley, State Farm
Best Insurance – Health
Farm Bureau
Jeff Howle, Health Markets
Murdock Insurance
Best Insurance - Home Owner’s
Hutson Insurance
Irmo Insurance Agency
Lance Gore, Allstate
Best Insurance – Life
Farm Bureau
Irmo Insurance Agency
Shannon Rikard State Farm
Best Insurance Agent
Scott Hanners, State Farm
Steven Price, Allstate
Christa Wilks, CHW Insurance
Group
Best Interior Design Firm
Haven & Harbor Interiors
The Houston House
Vie Elan Interiors
Best Investment Firm
Blackbridge Financial
Edward Jones Investments
Northbridge Investments
Best Irrigation Company
Busy Bee Lawn Care
Heads Up Irrigation
The Lawn Smith
Best Japanese Restaurant
Inakaya Watanabe
Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse
Tsunami, Harbison
Best Jewelry Store
Jared Jewelry
Kay’s Jewelers
Moseley’s Diamond Showcase
Best Landscaping Company
First Priority Landscaping
The Lawn Smith
Trifecta Landscaping
Best Landscaping Supply
Barthelemy Landscape Supply
Miner’s Landscape Supply Center
Willingham & Sons
Best Manicure/Pedicure
Diva Nails
Ivy Nails
Lovely Nails, Chapin
Best Marina
Big Mans Marina
Lighthouse Marina
Southshore Marina
Best Massage
Balance Medical & Day Spa
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Hand & Stone Massage
Best Medical Spa
Aquarius Spa and Salon
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Vivid Aesthetics
Best Mexican Restaurant
El Charro
Que Bueno
Taqueria Jalisco
Best Mortgage Company
Atlantic Bay
Metro Mortgage Corporation
Total Mortgage of Chapin
Best Mosquito Control Company
Baine Pest Control
Mosquito Joe of Lake Murray
Mosquito Squad
Best Music School
Freeway Music
Irmo Music Academy
Lake Murray Music
Best OB/GYN Practice
Carolina Woman’s Physicians
Elite Gynecology
Prisma Health OB/GYN, Parkridge
Best Oncology Practice
Lexington Oncology at LMC
SC Oncology Associates
Best Optometrist
Doctors Eye Care
Eyecare Center Chapin
Eyes on the Lake
Best Orthodontist
Davis Orthodontics
O’Leary Orthodontics
Pitner and Carroll Orthodontics
Best Orthopedic Practice
Carolina Bone & Joint
Midlands Orthopedic
Palmetto Bone & Joint
Best Outdoor Equipment Co.
A-Z Lawnmower
Irmo Outdoor Equipment
Wilson Equipment & Outdoor
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Lightscapes of Columbia
Outdoor Lighting Perspective
Premier Lighting
Best Pain Management
Carolina Bone & Joint
Palmetto Bone & Joint
Physician’s Pain & Spine
Best Pediatrician
Ballentine Pediatrics
Chapin Pediatrics
Sandhills Pediatrics, Irmo
Best Personal Training
Elite Personal Training Studio
FitBody Bootcamp
Kingfisher Strength
Best Pet Groomer
Robin’s Pet Grooming
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
Wolfgang Barkery Bistro
Best Pet Hospital
Banks Animal Hospital
Lake Town Animal Hospital
Well Pets Veterinary Clinic
Best Pet Kennel/Boarder
A Paws Paradise
Chapin Pet Lodge
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
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Chapin Pharmacy
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Lola Dee Photography
Salter Media
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Carolina Physical Therapy
Columbia Rehabilitation Clinic
Drayer Physical Therapy Institute
Best Pizza
Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders
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Zorba’s Greek Restaurant
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Blue Compass RV Columbia
Camping World
Lester’s RV
Best Place to Buy a Boat
Captain’s Choice
CIC Marine
Dynamic Marine & Motorsport
Best Place to Buy a Car – NEW
Love Chevrolet
Steve Padgett’s Honda of Lake
Murray Stokes Trainor
Best Place to Buy a Car – USED Golden Motors
Jim Hudson Toyota, Irmo
Love Chevrolet
Best Place to Buy a Pool
Aquarian Pools
Contemporary Pool Works
Cromer Pools
Best Place to Buy Bath and Kitchen
Bath & Bronze
Capital Kitchen & Bath
Gateway Supply
Best Place to Buy Carpet/Flooring
Floor & Decor
Floor Boys
Lake Murray Floor Covering
Best Place to Buy Tires
Juan’s Tires
Lake Murray Tire & Automotive
Royson’s Chapin Automotive
Best Place to Work
Brook Health Care
Hands & Hearts Home Care
Palmetto Bone & Joint
Best Plumber
Cassell Brothers, Irmo
Homans Clearwater Company
Murphy Plumbing
Best Podiatry Practice
Columbia Podiatry
Lexington Podiatry
Physicians Foot Care
Best Pressure Washing
Mathias Pressure Washing
Pro Finish
Best Private School
Ben Lippen School
Hammond School
Northside Christian Academy
Best Real Estate Agent
Danielle Burke, ReMax Purpose
Driven
Amy McGrady, J King Real Estate
Randy O’Dell, ReMax at the Lake
Best Real Estate Company
The Downing Group at
Keller Williams Realty
J King Real Estate
ReMax at the Lake
Best Roofing Company
Modern Roofing
Premiere Roofing
Vista Roofing
Squeegee Clean
Best Salad
J Peters Grill & Bar
J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar, Chapin
Tropical Smoothie
Best Sandwich Shop
Groucho’s Deli
Luzianna Purchase
Mathias Sandwich Shop
Best Seafood Restaurant
Catch 22, Chapin
Charlie’s Fisherman’s Wharf
George Roberts Wine & Raw Bar
Best Self-Storage Facility
Lake Murray Boat & RV
Storage Rentals of America
Storage Sense, Irmo
Best Senior Home Care
Assisting Hands Home Care
Brook Health Care
Hands & Hearts Home Care
Best Senior Living Community
The Heritage at Lowman
Lakeview Retirement Community
Southwoode Independent Living
Best Sushi Restaurant
Inakaya Watanabe
Koi Asian Fusion Cuisine
Red Sake Japanese
Best Tanning Salon
Carolina Tan
Palm Beach Tan, Chapin
Without Limits Boutique, Gifts & Tanning
Best Towing Company
Schroeder’s Towing
St. Andrews Express Towing
Wingard Towing Service
Best Unique Gift Shop
Miss Cocky, Chapin
The Nifty Gifty
Sweet Tea Boutique & Gifts
Best Urgent Care
Doctors Care, Seven Oaks
LMC Urgent Care
Veritas Urgent Care
Best Urology Practice
Carolina Urology Partners
Lexington Urology
Prisma Health Urology, Parkridge
Best Veterinarian
Chapin Veterinary Hospital
Friarsgate-Ballentine
Animal Hospital
Laketown Animal Hospital
Best Weight Loss
Medical Program
Cardinal Age Management
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Physicians Weight Loss Center
Best Wigs/Hair Pieces
Becky’s Place at LMC
Carolina Beauty
Merle Norman, Chapin
Best Wings
Carolina Wings & Ribhouse, Irmo
Tipsy Toad Tavern Wings & Ale, Irmo
Best Women’s Clothing Boutique
Joni’s Merle Norman Boutique
Miss Cocky, Chapin
Westmore Land of Gifts
Best Write In
Clean Eatz
Life Is Short Travels
Wild Birds, Irmo
Music Therapy Program harmonizes treatment at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital – Midlands
South Carolina’s first children’s hospital might also be its most innovative. Prisma Health Children’s Hospital - Midlands recently opened the state’s first pediatric rehabilitation unit – adding to the more than 30 subspecialties that provide care during over 150,000 children’s visits each year.
Prisma also continues to evolve its existing services. The Music Therapy Program began as a part-time initiative not long after the Midlands Children’s Hospital was established in 1994. Becca Kelly arrived on the scene more than two decades ago, and the music therapist is now the Team Lead in the Child Life Department, which houses the music therapy program.
“Like many other types of health therapy, music therapy has very strict criteria for entering into the profession,” Mitchell says. “You need to have a degree in music therapy from an approved program, become board-certified through the Certification Board of Music Therapists, and complete a six-month internship.”
by Erin Bluvas
As the demand for services continued to grow, Kelly was joined by two more therapists, including Janelle Mitchell, who launched the hospital’s Music Therapy Internship Program. It took two years and lots of paperwork to meet the numerous certification requirements, but the team welcomed their first intern in 2023.
Mitchell discovered the field when she was a member of her high school band in Florida. Her assistant band director showed the clarinet player an article about a device known as PAL (Pacifier Activated Lullaby) that – when administered by a music therapist – could reinforce effective non-nutritive sucking for premature infants through operant conditioning.
Mitchell knew she had found her calling, and she attended Florida State University to study music therapy with PAL’s inventor, Robert O. Lawton Distinguished Professor Jayne Standley. After completing her internship, passing the board certification exam, and gaining private practice expe-
photos by Field Brabham
rience for several years, Mitchell landed at Prisma Health’s Children’s Hospital-Midlands in 2019.
She was determined to establish an internship program and procure a PAL for their Neonatal Intensive Care Unit – the region’s only Level III NICU. Mitchell successfully secured a PAL device for their NICU earlier this year after detailing its merits in a grant application.
“Working in the NICU is the reason I started in the music therapy field, and I continue to grow more passionate about it,” Mitchell says.
Working closely with nurses, physicians, and other therapists, Mitchell provides care for patients as young as 28 weeks gestation – an age at which most infants can respond to auditory stimuli. She keeps an eye on various monitors to see how she can help patients improve their vital signs (e.g., increase oxygenation, lower heart rate) through music therapy (often in conjunction with touch and other therapeutic methods).
fants,” Mitchell says. “It is so rewarding to see them learn how to self-regulate and to witness music assist with maintaining vitals in a healthy range.”
The team also works with parents – educating them on the best ways to sing and safely use sound machines and other devices to help their children’s neurological development. This training begins as soon as the babies are old enough to engage in kangaroo care with their parents, which works even better when music is added to the mix.
Every part of the music therapy program is collaborative – from working with patients to parents to other clinical services. Referrals often result from interdisciplinary healthcare meetings, or treatment can come about spontaneously when a clinician, parent, or patient sees Mitchell walking down the hall with her guitar.
It’s all about healing – whatever that looks like.
“I have seen a patient go from oxygen levels in the low 80s to nearly 100 percent in response to positive auditory stimulation of singing with appropriate tempo, decibel level, and vocal range for premature in-
creasing anxiety during these procedures. Child life specialists work closely with clinicians, patients, and families to help them receive care, and music therapists are often called upon to provide their services.
“This little girl was having difficulty adjusting to the hospital environment and self-regulating before the procedure,” Mitchell says. “I brought in a keyboard, and she immediately began playing songs by ear and was able to settle in more. It’s an important component of treatment that helps normalize an unfamiliar experience that is happening in a new environment.”
The music therapists are often seen pushing entire carts of instruments among the various medical units at Prisma Health’s Children’s Hospital. From drums to guitars, they offer an array of options to children –using their extensive training and real-time feedback to engage patients in the cancer and blood disorder unit, surgical recovery, and beyond.
A recent request from the pediatric sedation unit introduced Mitchell to an elementary school-aged girl with autism. Sedation services are a common and critical need for children’s hospitals because they enable kids to receive much-needed healthcare procedures and music therapy can help with de-
A patient in the hospital’s newly opened rehabilitation unit had experienced a significant trauma injury and needed intensive therapy. Working with the occupational and physical therapists, Mitchell addressed goals to improve his balance, core strength, and motor skills – all by pulling out a xylophone.
“He was sitting up and displayed difficulties using both hands at the same time,” she recalls. “We tried shakers and other instruments, but it was the xylophone that really got his attention. He used one hand to hold the base and the other to use the mallet. It was a great moment.”
These strategic interventions improve physical functioning while increasing endurance and motivation. The collaborations result in practical gains while participating in a fun environment. Sometimes the patients are making the music, sometimes it’s the therapists, but often, it’s both.
“We are therapists who use music as a medium for helping patients achieve non-music goals,” Mitchell says. “We vary our methods based on the patient and the healthcare goals, whether that’s rehabilitation, pain management, neurodevelopment, reducing anxiety, or any number of other areas.”
Adopting the field’s emphasis on patient-preferred music, Mitchell follows their lead. Whether it’s Broadway or Taylor Swift, much of this involves singing their favorite songs. She’s even known to rap. Versatility is the key, and Prisma’s innovative music therapists have it in spades. n
Fabulous Fall Fun
With the cooler weather comes an abundance of outdoor fall activities. We have rounded up a few of our favorite things to do for all ages.
SC State Fair
1200 Rosewood Ave
Columbia October 9 – 20 scstatefair.org
Hot dogs, funnel cakes, rides, animals, and more. The iconic SC State Fair is back with the theme, “46 Reasons to Celebrate SC”. Bringing rides, vendors, entertainment, and pure family fun.
Midlands Fall Plant and Flower Festival
SC State Farmers Market
3483 Charleston Hwy West Columbia October 4 – 6 agriculture.sc.gov
Shop seasonal plants, flowers, pumpkins, gourds, décor and more. Wagons will be available on a first-come, firstserved basis, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own due to the limited quantity.
Riverbanks Zoo Boo at the Zoo 500 Wildlife Pkwy Columbia October 18 – 30 riverbanks.org
Put on your costume and join this popular Halloween spooktacular.
Treat or treat through the zoo with all kinds of fun activities and treats along the way.
Eudora Wildlife
Safari Park Fall Festival
219 Salem Lane Salley weekends in October eudorafarms.net
This safari drive through the fall festival will include pumpkin patch activities, a corn maze, games, pony rides, and a petting zoo.
Deceased Farm
382 Olde Farm Rd
Lexington September 20 –November 2 deceasedfarm.com
Clinton Sease Farms
382 Olde Farm Rd
Lexington
September 20 –November 3 clintonseasefarm.com
Enjoy hayrides, a playground, an obstacle course, a corn maze, a pumpkin patch and so much more. There is so much fun to be had at the farm, everyone in the family is sure to have a great time.
Experience this self-guided haunt through 6 terrifying buildings, 3 intense outdoor areas, and of course creepy corn fields. Deceased Farm is an intense haunted attraction and is NOT recommended for children under the age of 12.
Lever Farms
5057 SC Highway 34 Pomaria Saturdays in October leverfarms.com
Pick your perfect pumpkin off the vine or choose a pumpkin already picked. Enjoy activities such as games, corn maze, wagon rides, farm animals, and more.
Marinate the chicken tenders in the honey mustard dressing for about an hour. Crush the pretzels into crumbs and coat the tenders. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer, spray the tops lightly with cooking spray, and cook for 5 minutes at 400°F. Turn them over, spray again, and cook for another 5 minutes. Serve with ranch or honey mustard as a dipping sauce.
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. On the wide end of each triangle place one slice of apple, one folded piece of cheese, and one sausage; roll up tightly. Place one inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets, point side down. Bake until golden brown, 10-12 minutes, and serve with dressing.
Italian Pinwheels
8 oz cream cheese, softened
⅔ cup roasted red peppers, thinly chopped
¼ tsp Italian seasoning
4 corn tortillas
8 slices Provolone cheese
16 slices salami
48 slices pepperoni
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
8 lettuce leaves
Mix the cream cheese, red peppers, and Italian seasoning and spread onto the tortillas. Place 2 slices of cheese in the center, next to each other. Lay 4 salami all over the tortilla and then 12 pepperonis. Lay bell pepper and lettuce in the center to finish. Tightly roll up the tortilla and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. When ready to serve, remove and slice into pinwheels with a sharp knife.
Crispy Buffalo Wings
3 lbs chicken wings & drumettes
1 Tbsp baking powder
1 tsp fine sea salt
2 tsp garlic powder
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup hot sauce
1 Tbsp brown sugar
Preheat the oven to 450˚F. Thoroughly pat dry the chicken with a paper towel. Mix the baking powder, salt, and garlic powder and sprinkle over the chicken, tossing to combine. Bake the chicken on a prepared baking sheet for 25 minutes, flip it over, and bake for another 25 minutes or until crisp. Mix the butter, hot sauce, and brown sugar to make the sauce. Remove the chicken from the baking sheet to a bowl and drizzle the sauce over the chicken. Toss to coat the chicken and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Carolina Caviar Dip
1 lb Roma tomatoes, seeded & diced
1 can black-eyed peas, drained & rinsed
1 can black beans, drained & rinsed
1 can sweet corn, drained
1 red onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cilantro, chopped
½ cup olive oil
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup white wine vinegar
1 tsp chili powder
salt
To make the dressing whisk together the olive oil, sugar, white wine vinegar, chili powder, and salt to taste. In a large bowl, add tomatoes, black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, red onion, bell peppers, and cilantro. Drizzle with the dressing and stir to combine. Cover and chill until serving time.
Pimento Cheese Spread
2 lbs cheddar cheese, grated
1 lb whipped cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup pimentos, chopped
¼ cup prepared horseradish
2 Tbsp green Tabasco hot sauce
Mix all of the ingredients except for the cheddar cheese. Once mixed together, fold in cheddar cheese, until well combined. Serve with chips or pretzels for dipping or as sandwiches.
7 Layer Dip
16 oz refried beans
12 oz guacamole
16 oz sour cream
8 oz cream cheese
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
3 oz canned sliced black olives
2 Roma tomatoes diced
¼ cup green onions, chopped
Warm the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes and spread into a deep-dish pie plate or 8×8 baking dish. Spread the guacamole
Fruit Dip
1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, soft ened
1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow crème
Blend cream cheese and marshmallow creme with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined. Serve with fruit such as grapes, strawberries, apples, and pineapple.
Football Cookies
1 pie crust
½ stick butter
½ cup sugar
¼ cup cinnamon
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 Tbsp milk
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush pie crust with softened butter, evenly to all edges, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Roll pie crust lengthwise into a tight long roll. With a sharp knife, cut one-inch rolls. Lay each roll flat and use the bottom of a large glass to flatten to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut out a football shape from the flattened roll. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until slightly golden. Allow them to cool completely before
It’s time to restore the Capital City Baseball Stadium!
Opened in 1927, the historic ballpark was initially funded by former Pittsburgh Pirates owner and Baseball Hall of Famer Barney Dreyfuss and named Dreyfuss Field. The ballpark was renamed Capital City Park in 1946. Hank Aaron, Frank Robinson, and Joe Nuxhall all played ball at “the Cap.”
Irmo High School graduate Chris Dorsey is spearheading the community effort to revitalize the ballpark to be used by local Legion and youth baseball teams as well as sports like lacrosse and a venue conducive to hosting concerts.
Dorsey, who co-owns the Big Red Box dumpster company in the Midlands and also leads the American Legion baseball team Post Richland 215, said the idea came to him at first out of frustration. There aren’t fields in Columbia and Richland County available for teams to play ball, explains Dorsey. The City of Columbia currently owns the stadium.
To get involved in the effort to SAVE the CAP or for more information you can visit their facebook page: “Save Capital City Stadium.”
Dreyfuss, Dorsey
THE OLD GUYS
Many of you have read that I had a great Daddy. Hardly a day goes by when I don’t reference something about him. His life lives on through my life.
I was lucky, in another way, during my childhood to know some old guys who were leaders in our church. Church was the vast majority of my social interaction and learning about the world. This was a great experience that I appreciate much more now than I did then.
These men would occasionally be called on to lead a church business meeting. I remember several men who addressed the group in a calm, steady voice. The man would identify a problem, such as a leaking roof. He’d relay the recommendation of the Deacons for a solution and ask for questions. His explanations were clear enough that an eight-year-old could un derstand them. He’d ask for a motion and a second, then take a vote.
I was fascinated when I was eight years old by this simple process. It seemed to me these men were important, and I suppose every kid wants to be important somehow.
There was another aspect to these men that I’ve been thinking about lately. Each of them would speak to us young guys every Sunday. They’d shake our hands and ask how we were doing in school. They always had some questions besides school progress, which made us feel important to them. They remembered anything we had told them in the past. While many of the “old men” in the church ignored us completely, these men took time to relate to us as if we mattered.
At this stage of my life, I can see that the way they treated us as if we mattered made us want to live like we mattered. We wanted to “measure up” and be like these men.
Looking back, I’m fairly certain most of them were World War II vets, though I do know of one who didn’t serve until the Korean conflict. But the point is that these men weren’t just men haphazardly going about life. They were living and leading and giving with purpose, having survived real battles and determined to make something not only of themselves but of the world around them.
I never saw any of these men get rattled by anything. I guess they viewed any situation as a lot easier than many others did, simply because nobody was shooting at them. They were back home alive in a peaceful world -- the rest of the problems would get worked out in a reasonable way.
These old guys were Leaders of Men. They carried themselves differently. They would make other adults wait while they talked to us kids. They continue to change lives long after their death because of how they touched our lives.
Where are today’s Leaders of Men? Who are they? We must all take a close look in the mirror. We’ve got work to do and not much time. n
David Clark writes and works in Cochran, GA. Connect with him at
