hat is a wet Room? This modern, spa-inspired bathroom concept is quickly gaining popularity in luxury home design, whether you ’ re remodeling or building new. These seamless spaces often feature the tub within the shower enclosure itself, keeping all water contained in one easy-to-clean area - the essence of a true “wet room ” . No matter your shower design, Bigger Glass Company has the expertise to help you create the perfect layout for your glass shower enclosure W
B
igger Glass Company is a family-owned and operated business proudly serving the greater Chapin and surrounding areas We’re honored to have been named Best Glass Shop by Irmo-Chapin Life for five consecutive years - a recognition that reflects our commitment to quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. At Bigger Glass, we ’ re dedicated to earning the trust of our community through every project we complete Call us or stop by our showroom to explore how we can help bring your vision to life!
Thanks for reading the Nov/Dec 2025 edition of IrmoChapin Life Magazine. I want to congratulate the winners of the Best of Irmo-Chapin 2026 competition. Over 25,000 votes were cast, and the winners are revealed inside. Please support your locally owned Irmo and Chapin area businesses this holiday season. Spending your money in a mom-pop Lexington County business versus sending it to Bentonville, Arkansas ensures that the money is recirculated locally, which helps our local community prosper.
At the age of ten, I regarded Thanksgiving as an occasion that lacked excitement. There was always a bustle of activity in the kitchen, where Mom and Grandma would be extremely busy preparing the meal. Dad and Grandpa would be watching football, meanwhile my brother and I would be left to keep ourselves occupied as we waited for the turkey to be finished. I did not look forward to consuming a meal which consisted of cranberries, stuffing, sweet potatoes/yams, broccoli, and dry, baked turkey. Yuck!
What a difference in perspective an additional forty-four years of life can give a person. Older Todd would give younger Todd quite the spanking for disrespecting his mother’s turkey by calling it “dry.” Now, Thanksgiving has become one of my favorite holidays. I have learned the magic of the deep-fried turkey and all the juicy deliciousness that comes with the tender meat and crispy, mouthwatering, crunchy skin. The “boring” time I “suffered” through as a kid is now a heartwarming time where I catch up with my own children, who are now out of the house, living their best lives. Time slows down over Thanksgiving and my wife Donna and I thoroughly enjoy the holiday break it provides within the hectic world we live in today.
How will you spend your time this Thanksgiving? Will you be hosting family at home? Will you be visiting family? Will you be serving others who may be less fortunate? Whatever you choose to do this Thanksgiving, I wish you and your family the best Thanksgiving filled with memories, for each generation, that last a lifetime.
Thanks for reading IrmoChapin Life Magazine! Todd Shevchik
CALENDAR OFevents
NOV-DEC
Friday, November 7 -
Saturday, November 8
6th Annual Mistletoe Market
Tom’s Den | 5062 Augusta Rd. | Lexington Shop locally for food, fashion, beauty, and home goods. Over 30 vendors, a coffee truck, and a food truck to get your holiday shopping started. Visit mistletoemarketsc. com for more information.
Sunday, November 9
Veteran’s Day Ball
1801 Bush River Rd. | Columbia | 5 pm – 11 pm
A night of celebration and honor to pay tribute to our veterans. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and great company. Visit eventbrite.com for tickets.
Friday, November 14 -
Saturday, November 15
Jingle Bell Bash
Wingard’s Market | 1403 N. Lake Dr. | Lexington Kick off your holiday shopping with specials, raffles, and refreshments. For more information visit wingardsmarket.com.
Saturday, November 15
Chapin Bands Holiday Market
Chapin High School | 300 Columbia Ave. Chapin | 9 am – 3 pm
Bring your family and friends for a fun-filled day of shopping, eating, and festive music. For more information email CBHolidayMarket@gmail.com.
Friday, November 21
Holiday Pop-Up Shop
The Heritage at Lowman | 2101 Dutch Fork Rd. Chapin | 1 pm – 5 pm
Gather your family and friends and join local vendors selling goods such as candles, jewel-
ry, wood crafts, tote bags, quilts, and more. For more information visit theheritageatlowman.org.
Friday, November 21
Holiday Pop-Up Shop
The Heritage at Lowman | 2101 Dutch Fork Rd. Chapin | 1 pm – 5 pm
Gather your family and friends and join local vendors selling goods such as candles, jewelry, wood crafts, tote bags, quilts, and more. For more information visit theheritageatlowman.org.
Friday, November 21 –
Sunday, November 23
57th Annual Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show
Jamil Shrine Temple | 206 Jamil Rd. | Columbia
The family-friendly event will have jewelry, beads, loose stones, fossils, minerals, gold, silver, and tools for sale. For more information visit cgms.rocks.
Tuesday, November 25
Sleigh Bell Stroll
Saluda Shoals Park | 6071 St. Andrews Rd.
Columbia | 6 pm – 8 pm
See the Holiday Lights on the River on this unique two-mile, nighttime family fun walk. Pre-registration is required. Visit icrc.net for more information.
Thursday, December 4 –
Sunday, December 14
A Seussified Christmas Carol Chapin Theatre Company | 830 Columbia Ave. Chapin
A whimsical reinvention of Dickens’ most beloved Christmas story in wacky rhymed couplets. For tickets visit chapintheatre.org.
Saturday, December 6
Town of Irmo Christmas Parade Crossroads Intermediate School 6949 Saint Andrews Rd. | Columbia | 9 am
and a special appearance from Santa. Visit townofirmosc.com for more information.
Saturday, December 13
Old Timey Christmas
Beaufort and Clark Streets | Chapin | 6 pm – 9 pm
Enjoy the tree lighting, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, children’s activities, carolers, and live music while you shop for Christmas. Visit chapinsc.com for more information.
Friday, December 19 and Saturday, December 20
The Christmas Angel Harbison Theatre at MTC | 7300 College St. Irmo
Celebrating its 25th year, this original ballet will take you and your family on a magical journey. For tickets visit harbisontheatre.org.
Monday, December 22
Holiday Blood Drive
Seven Oaks Park | 200 Leisure Ln. | Columbia 8 am – 1 pm
Give the gift of life this holiday season. Visit icrc.net for more information. n
Usher in the holiday season with festive floats, marching bands, local organizations,
faithMATTERS
JASON YARBOROUGH
Servant Leader
His Pleasure, Our Benefit
…in accordance with His pleasure and will… Ephesians 1:5, 9
One Friday night, my oldest son, newly independent as a working adult, drove in for a weekend visit from the upstate of SC. His mom, sister, brother, and I were thrilled, rushing outside to welcome him. As we greeted him, my eyes were drawn to the dim glow of his car’s headlights. The plastic housing was clouded, weathered by years of sun exposure. As his father, I could not ignore the problem—it wasn’t safe for him to drive in the dark with low visibility. My heart was stirred towards his well-being, and I resolved to fix it before he returned home.
The next morning, I set out to work on his car in the garage, sanding and polishing the headlamps to restore their clarity. My son wandered in, curious, and asked what I was doing. I pointed out the oxidation dulling the lenses and explained how I was addressing it. He watched, then pitched in, and after a while, he said, “Thanks, Dad, for taking care of this. I’ll be able to see much better at night.” I smiled and replied, “My pleasure, son.” It truly was—this father’s joy to help his child.
This moment reminds me of the spiritual blessings Paul describes in Ephesians chapter 1. God’s inspired Word tells us that those who fully surrender themselves by faith and follow Christ are lavished with every spiritual blessing: chosen to be holy and blameless in His sight, adopted into His family, redeemed through His Son’s blood, forgiven of sins, granted wisdom and understanding, and entrusted with the mystery of His will. Twice in the first nine verses (vs.5 & 9), Paul emphasizes that God freely bestows these gifts “in accordance with His pleasure and will.”
You see, God, who is infinitely greater and more loving than any earthly father, freely gives to and delights in His children (Psalm 18:19). That’s just who He is! His compassion and kindness just flow out of His heart (Ex 34:6). There’s a readiness to bless (Ps 86:5). It gives Him great pleasure (Ps 149:4). If you have transferred your trust to Jesus already, allow yourself to bask in God’s smile over you this week! And then pass a blessing on to someone else. If you’re not yet part of God’s family but sense a stirring in your soul, reach out to a local church or our team at Focused Living. It would be our pleasure to discuss God’s life-giving solution for you that He is pleased to offer. n
In Memoriam
Albert “Al” R. Koon, Jr.
July 23, 1951 - October 17, 2025
Chapin’s Mayor, Al Koon, passed away on October 17, 2025, at Lexington Medical Center, surrounded by his family. Born and raised in Chapin, he and his wife, Susan, were classmates at Chapin High School and celebrated their fiftieth anniversary in 2023. The couple has two sons, Chris and Ryan.
A 1973 graduate of Clemson University with a degree in engineering, Koon was hired by SCE&G (which later became Dominion Energy). He earned his certification as a senior reactor operator at the Westinghouse nuclear power school and began his career at VC Summer Power Station’s Unit One. He worked there for about 38 years until he retired in 2011.
Koon became interested in the politics of his town when he retired and observed how rapidly his town was changing. After four years on the town council, he decided
to run for mayor. He strongly believed that leadership and vision were vital in navigating a town like Chapin towards the future. He took office in January 2022.
Koon felt that the growth of Chapin brought a lot of advantages and additional challenges, such as population and roads. Koon challenged himself and his team to imagine what their town would look like in twenty years. In office, he led the update of all town ordinances and the rewrite of the town’s zoning code. His team moved forward to get all the town’s procedures, programs, and processes at town hall up to today’s standards. He also initiated the comprehensive growth plan, Envision Chapin.
Koon’s working professional career experience in commercial nuclear power required strong planning with strict procedures to follow, and he transferred that experience to his mayoral work. He knew the
importance of growing the town in a very deliberate method. He believed that locally owned businesses are the backbone of Chapin, and his goal of growing the town while retaining its historic charm and character was essential.
Koon was a member at Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church where he served on the Church Council, the Building Committee, and as a Youth Leader. Koon enjoyed various hobbies, including gardening and woodworking, and was a dedicated Clemson fan.
Koon leaves a legacy as a family man, a person of faith, and a visionary servant leader to the Chapin community.
Memorials are suggested to the Greater Chapin Community Foundation, 2142 Boyce Street, Suite 402, Columbia, SC 29201 or to Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church, 101 E. Boundary St., Chapin, SC 29036. n
Care Building a Legacy of
by Chesson Merritt • photos by Lola Dee Photography and Chelsea Marne Photography
Through insurance and community involvement, Victoria Ares is protecting what matters most across the Midlands
When Victoria Ares moved from Virginia to South Carolina in 2008, she didn’t just begin a new career—she discovered her calling. What started as a job in insurance, answering phones and taking payments, soon became a mission to help people feel protected, prepared, and supported when life takes an unexpected turn.
By 2014, her dedication and passion led her to open her own Allstate agency in Ballentine, where she now leads a dynamic team of four full-time agents and two part-time administrative professionals. Together, they’ve built more than a business; they’ve built relationships grounded in trust, compassion, and genuine care for their neighbors.
“I’m an educator by heart, a mom and an educator,” Ares said. “I love to take care of people. With insurance, you need to make sure that they have the right coverage so that when the unthinkable happens, you’re able to help them get their car or their house back together.”
For Ares, insurance isn’t just about the policies and premiums. It’s about the people she serves. She brings empathy and understanding to every client interaction as she works to protect families and their futures.
“I say it one hundred times a day, but there are so many people who pay their insurance and don’t really know what they are paying for,” Ares shared. “They pay their cell phone bill and know what they’re getting. They pay their light bill and know what they’re getting. So many people pay their insurance and then they get into a car accident, and they hold their breath because they don’t know what their coverage is. Or a tree falls on their house, and they wonder if they are covered for that. We do a good job on the front end to set people up successfully. Yes, everyone wants the best price and we’re going to give you the best number we can, but we make sure you know what you’re paying for by explaining coverages without all the insurance jargon.”
The team is proactive in ensuring that all of their clients are properly insured.
“One thing that sets us apart is we don’t wait for our customers to call us,” Ares said. “We proactively reach out to our customers once a year at their renewal to check in and make sure they don’t need to update their coverage and they still qualify for the best rate. Have their needs changed? Do they have a new driver in the household? Did they have a child and need to add life insurance? Did they add on to their home?”
Many people don’t realize how complex insurance coverage can be or how easy it is to overlook important details until it’s too late. That’s where her expertise truly shines. She takes the time to educate her clients, helping them understand what coverage they have, what they might be missing, and how to make sure their families and assets are fully protected.
That sense of service extends far beyond the walls of her office. Ares and her team are deeply involved in the Irmo and
Chapin communities, supporting local schools and sponsoring events that bring people together. From the Chapin Labor Day Parade and Halloween at the Park at Crooked Creek to 5K fundraisers and programs at area elementary, middle, and high schools, the Ares team is always looking for ways to give back.
“We participated in the Labor Day Parade this year where we had a float and threw out some footballs as Team Allstate,” Ares said. “Chapin is booming and growing, and it’s just fun to be a part of it all. I’ve been here since 2008 and to see it all grow, and all the new faces and new businesses— It’s just great to be a part of it.”
I feel grateful, inspired, and ready to serve this amazing community that I love so much
You’ll find the Ares team out and about interacting with their neighbors all year long. Recently, they gave a shout out to local teachers on their social media encouraging clients and followers alike to nominate their favorite teacher to win a fully-loaded basket of supplies to celebrate the start of the new school year. Several team members ran a 5K together at Chapin High School, and in October, the whole team ventured out to Halloween at the Park to hand out treats along the trail.
Ares was recently voted in as a new board member for the Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce beginning in January 2026. “I feel grateful, inspired, and ready to serve this amazing community that I love so much,” she said.
Ares and her team’s dedication to both their clients and their community is what continues to drive their success. They believe that being a trusted local agent means more than writing policies. It means cultivating relationships that last through all of life’s milestones and challenges. Together, they celebrate first homes, new cars, and growing families, and they provide support during the tough moments, too. It’s what makes the work meaningful to the entire team.
Through hard work, heart, and a true commitment to service, Victoria Ares has built more than a successful insurance agency—she’s built a legacy of care in South Carolina. n
spotlight
by Betsey Guzior
Goldfish Swim School
At Goldfish Swim School, time in the pool is more than just about learning to swim.
With vibrant, tropical-inspired spaces and a playful approach rooted in safety, families discover a spot where fun floats to the top and every child is celebrated for diving into new skills.
The Lexington location opened earlier this year and is the second for South Carolina. For children from 4 months to 12 years, the school offers step-by-step instructions that build critical swimming skills like floating, paddling, and breath work. More than 600 students enrolled in programs when the school opened in February.
Tiffany Keyser is the regional manager for both the Lexington and Greenville locations. Keyser has a daughter who is an elite swimmer at the age of 13.
“I’m around a pool deck for fun and for work all the time,” she said.
Keyser’s background in early childhood education and recreation gave her the perfect combination to run both locations of the swim school, a franchise concept created by Jenny McCuiston and her husband Chris, who saw the need for a more playful approach to swim instructions with an emphasis on safety. They opened
their first swim school in 2006.
There are several reasons Goldfish Swim School has grown to more than 200 locations in North America.
The instruction is personalized — the goal is to have one certified instructor for every four students. The pool used is slightly smaller than a regulation pool, allowing small spaces for simultaneous instruction.
Students are not only learning swimming skills, but water safety, an important life skill in South Carolina, where rivers, lakes, and the ocean are a big part of life outdoors.
Learning to swim is an adventure, not a chore. Interiors are bright and colorful, almost tropical, with tiki huts hair dryer stations and individual family changing huts. “It’s an immersive experience for children and their families, where swimming is celebrated and the experience is top notch,” Keyser said.
And for parents and caretakers, the program offers flexibility to easily find a class that matches a family’s busy schedule, with makeup sessions available.
But more importantly, the school’s instructors spend time building confidence and teaching through fun and engaging swim lessons. The 90-degree pool and an emphasis on fun and socialization make Goldfish a choice for teaching little ones how to swim.
But why would you want to teach a 4-month-old baby to swim? “We feel passionate that they come in at the earliest age, so not only does the baby start to feel comfortable in the water, but the parent also learns to feel comfortable and can work on safety skills,” Keyser shared.
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children in the United States, according to the American Red Cross, and the No. 1 cause of death for children under the age of 5. And children younger than 1 are more likely to drown at home. Taking formal swim lessons can decrease that chance by 88%. “We talk about safety hazards around your house, even what to look for, such as run-off drains, leaving the baby pool, making sure you don’t leave toys in the backyard pool that are eye catching to children, that you’ve got to put those away,” Keyser said. n
by Abigail Harris
FGOoD WORKS
In every community, some neighbors struggle to maintain safe and livable homes. Usually, the issues are minor repairs that accumulate over time, but sometimes they are significant problems that make a home unsafe. In the Chapin area, one local non-profit has been quietly addressing these needs for more than two decades. That organization is GOoD Works, a 501(c)(3) ministry dedicated to helping families live in safer, healthier homes.
ounded in 2002, GOoD Works exists to improve the living conditions of people in need by providing essential home repairs. The organization undertakes projects of all sizes, including plumbing, floor repair, roofing, electrical work, door installation, well and septic system repairs, porch and step repair, and wheelchair ramp construction. What sets GOoD Works apart is its local, faith-based mission. Inspired by the words of Matthew 25:40, “The King will reply, Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” The group sees every project as an opportunity to serve both God and neighbor.
For over 20 years, this non-profit ministry has grown a strong presence in the community, working directly with families who need the most help. Whether it’s repairing a roof or making a home easier to access for someone with disabilities, the heart behind the work is always the same: to respond to needs with compassion, Christlike love, and practical solutions.
Like many non-profits, GOoD Works depends on the generosity of others to carry out its mission. Funding is provided by individuals, local businesses, churches, and other organizations. Most work is accomplished with the help of volunteers, resulting in no cost to the families receiving assistance. However, some repairs, such as septic systems, HVAC units, or certain roofing jobs, require the services of professional contractors. In those cases,
donated funds allow the organization to cover the extra expenses. Bringing in a professional for these types of jobs ensures that families receive safe solutions.
The organization is small but mighty. GOoD Works has just one paid employee, Executive Director Mary Higginbotham, who oversees the entire non-profit. Everything else is volunteer based. This model allows more resources to go directly toward helping families. Higginbotham has been the Executive Director of GOoD Works for 11 years but has worked in the non-profit world for 25 years. Before stepping into this role, she volunteered with GOoD Works through her church. As residents of Chapin for over 20 years, she and her husband, Billy, are very involved in the community. The couple has two boys, Wilkes, 17, and Landry, 12, who both attend Chapin schools. The family is active in their church, the Unity Church of Lake Murray, and stays busy with local activities, including Boy Scouts, Chapin High School football, and the Rotary Club.
If funding is the backbone of GOoD Works, volunteers are its heartbeat. Projects could not move forward without people in the community willing to give their time and skills. “Volunteers are crucial to our success. We couldn’t do our projects without them,” said Higginbotham. Some volunteers have handyman experience and can take on skilled repairs. Others may not have the skills to do more complex projects, but are eager to lend a hand with painting, cleaning, or yard work. She
continued, “We also welcome groups who may want to organize a volunteer workday. Often we have churches, businesses, and civic organizations serve together on a GOoD Works project. These efforts of every volunteer not only accomplish muchneeded repairs but also strengthen the sense of community.”
Every project is different, but the goal remains the same: create safer homes for families in need. Sometimes that means addressing urgent repairs, such as fixing a leaking roof or building a wheelchair ramp, or simpler needs such as cleaning up someone’s yard or painting a portion of the home. Currently, GOoD Works is undertaking a very extensive project of replacing an entire home for a disabled client whose house is beyond repair. A refurbished mobile home will take its place, offering a safer place for her to call home. These kinds of projects highlight the range of work the organization takes on and the importance of both volunteers and financial support. Without both, families facing overwhelming challenges would not have anywhere else to turn.
Over the years, many moments have left lasting impressions on Higginbotham and the volunteers of GOoD Works. One experience that stands out to Higginbotham involved “Mr. L.,” an elderly client with an intellectual disability who was living alone in a home that had fallen into disrepair. “It was shocking and heartbreaking,” shared Higginbotham. “When I got back to my office, I cried. But, thankfully, that’s not
the end of the story. With a great group of volunteers, we were able to help him, and it’s those moments that stand out the most.”
Another memorable story comes from a visit with an older woman whose husband struggled to climb the steps into their home. She worried constantly about his safety. When she learned that GOoD Works could build a ramp at no cost, she was overwhelmed with gratitude. She asked why anyone would do that for free. Higginbotham told her, “Because Jesus calls us to love and serve our neighbors.”
These stories reflect not only the practical repairs but also the emotional and spiritual impact of the work being done by GOoD Works. Each project is more than meeting physical needs; it is an act of care and a tangible sharing of the gospel. For those in the Chapin area and beyond, there are many ways to support GOoD Works. Volunteering time, donating funds, and praying for the ministry are all valuable contributions. The needs are ongoing, and the more people who get involved, the greater the impact.
GOoD Works will host their annual Live Nativity on Tuesday, December 9th, from 5:30-7:00 pm at 115 Birchtrace Court in Chapin. There will be live animals, a live nativity cast, music, refreshments, and crafts.
Whether you have years of repair experience or simply a willingness to help, there is a place for you at GOoD Works. For information on how to get involved, visit goodworksc.org. n
Best Accounting Firm
To the Moon and Back
Best Aesthetic Practice
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Afterschool Program
Gateway Baptist Church
Best Allergy/ENT Practice
Palmetto ENT & Allergy
Best Apartment Complex
The Residence at Marina Bay
Best Art Gallery
Palmetto Fine Arts
Best Assisted Living Facility
The Heritage at Lowman
Best Attorney: Elder Law Firm Lawyer Lisa
Best Attorney: Family Law Firm Dial, Grimm, & Rupert
Best Attorney: Litigation Firm Studemeyer Law Firm
Best Attorney: Probate/Estate Firm Amy Cofield Law
Best Attorney: Real Estate Firm Law Office of Smokey Brown
Best Attorney: Workers Comp Harrell, Martin, & Peace
Best Auto Repair Shop: Domestic Christian Brothers Automotive
Best Auto Repair Shop: Foreign The Auto Shop of Chapin
Best Auto Service Dealership Jim Hudson Toyota
Best Bank First Community Bank
Best Bath/Kitchen Fixtures Bath & Bronze
Best BBQ Farm Boy’s Barbecue
Best Boat Repair M&W Marine
Best Breakfast Bakon Southern Eatery
Best Burger Higher Ground
Best Butcher Shop Ole Timey Meat Market
Best Catering Company Mathias Catering
Best Charter School Grey Collegiate
Best Children’s Boutique Three Little Chickadees
Best Chiropractor Family Practice of Chiropractic
Best Coffee Shop Coffee Shelf
Best Coin Dealer Golden Eagle Precious Metals Exchange
Best Concierge Medicine
SC My Care
Best Consignment Shop Palmetto Thrift Store
Best Cosmetic Surgery Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Counseling Services Lindsay M. Amburn Counseling
Best CPA Robert Keisler
Best Credit Union Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
Best Custom Home Builder Gallup Design Build
Best Dance Company The Southern Strutt
Best Day Spa Blue Lavender Spa & Medical Aesthetics
Best Dentist: Adults Chapin Dental Associates
Best Dentist: Cosmetic Irmo Smiles
Best Dentist: Kids Lake Murray Pediatric Dentistry
Best Dermatologist Columbia Skin Clinic
Best Dessert Sweet Izzy’s Ice Cream
Best Doggie Daycare Chapin Pet Lodge
Best Electrician
Lake Murray Electric
Best Esthetician
Chantel Harnden
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Event Venue The Meech House
Best Exterminator
Baine Pest Control
Best Family Entertainment Riverbanks Zoo
Best Family Practice Lexington Family Practice – Ballentine
Best Fine Dining Chophouse of Chapin
Best Fitness Center Sozo Family Fitness
Best Furniture Store
Sugar Creek Amish Furniture
Best Garden Center Wingard’s Market
Best General Contractor
Dutch Fork Renovations
Best Glass Store
Bigger Glass Company
Best Gym Club Fitness Irmo
Best Hair Salon The Color Bar
Best Hairstylist
Shayna Dagenais – Hyde Salon
Best Happy Hour
Tipsy Toad Tavern
Best Hardscaping Services Saluda Hill Landscapes
Best Hearing Healthcare Lake Murray Hearing
Best Heart Doctor Dr. Dan Bouknight Carolina Cardiology Vascular Associates
Best Heating & Air Cassell Brothers Home Services
Best Home Accessories Poore House Furnishings
Best Home Builder Great Southern Homes
Best Home Furnishings Little Mountain Home/LUX Home
Best Hospice Care Amedisys
Best Insurance Agent Victoria Ares – Allstate
Best Insurance: Auto Russell-Massey & Company
Best Insurance: Health Gibson & Associates
Best Insurance: Home Owner’s Irmo Insurance
Best Insurance: Life Farm Bureau Insurance
Best Internal Medicine SC Internal Medicine
Best Interior Design Firm
Vie Elan Interiors
Best Internet Service Provider
Carolina Connect
Best Investment Firm
Beckett Financial Group
Best Jewelry Store
Carolina Fine Jewelry
Best Lake Restaurant
Liberty Tap Room & Grill
Best Landscaping Company
First Priority Landscaping
Best Landscaping Supply
South Ground Supply Company
Best Margarita La Fogata
Best Massage Well Soul Spa & Salon
Best Meat Store Teague’s Market
Best Medical Imaging
American Health Imaging
Best Medical Spa
Glō Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Men’s Health Practice
Alpha Male Men’s Clinic
Best Mosquito Control Company
Mosquito Joe of Lake Murray
Best Music School Lake Murray Music
Best Ob/Gyn Practice
Lexington Women’s Care Chapin
Best Optometrist Eyes on the Lake
Best Orthodontist Carroll Orthodontics
Best Orthopedic Practice Palmetto Bone & Joint
Best Outdoor Equipment Company Irmo Outdoor Equipment
Best Outdoor Furniture Boland’s Ace Hardware
Best Painter M&A Perfectionist Painting
Best Pediatric Practice Chapin Pediatrics
Best Personal Training Elite Personal Training
Best Pet Groomer
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming
Best Pet Hospital Lake Murray Animal Hospital
Best Pet Kennel/Boarder
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
Best Pharmacy Irmo Drug
Best Photographer
Lux Verum Productions
Best Physical Therapy Practice Forged Physical Therapy
Best Pilates/Yoga Instruction Club Pilates
Best Pizza Cheesy Pint Pizzeria
Best Place to Buy a Boat Captain’s Choice Marine
Best Place to Buy a Camper/RV Lester’s RV
Best Place to Buy a Car: New Jim Hudson Toyota
Best Place to Buy a Car: Used Stokes Trainor
Best Place to Buy Carpet/Flooring RiteRug Flooring
Best Place to Buy Eyeglasses Eyes on the Lake
Best Place to Buy Hardwood Floors Floor & Décor
Best Place to Buy a Pool Cromer Pools
Best Place to Buy Tires Lake Murray Tire & Automotive
Best Place to Work Newberry Health
Best Plumbing Company Homans Clearwater Company
Best Podiatry Practice Dr. Dan Methuselah - Columbia Podiatry
Best Pressure Washing Squeegee Clean
Best Private School Hammond School
Best Property Management Company Midlands Property Management
Best Real Estate Agency: Commercial NAI Columbia
Best Real Estate Agency: Residential ReMax at the Lake
Best Real Estate Agent: Residential Molly Sims – ReMax at the Lake
Best Residential Contractor Lake Pointe Construction
Best Restoration Services Kingsley Water Damage Restoration
Best Roofing Company Crosby Roofing
Best Salad J.R. Cash’s Grill & Bar
Best Sandwich Shop S&S Destination
Best Seafood Restaurant George Roberts Wine & Raw Bar
Best Self-Storage Facility Lake Murray Boat & RV
Best Senior Home Care Assisting Hands Home Care
Best Senior Living Community Lakeview Retirement Community
Best Steak Chophouse of Chapin
Lisha Whitaker, DVM Holly Hodges, DVM
Best Sushi Restaurant Inakaya Watanabe
Best Sweet Tea Chick-Fil-A
Best Tacos Nacho Margarita
Best Towing Company Wingard Towing Service
Best Tree Removal Sox & Freeman
Best Unique Gift Shop Miss Cocky – Chapin
Best Urgent Care Chapin Urgent Care
Best Urology Practice Prisma Health Urology
Best Veterinarian Lake Town Animal Hospital
Best Wait Staff Chophouse of Chapin
Best Wealth Management Company Blackbridge Financial
Best Web Designer Convergent Design
Best Wedding Venue Old Barn Farm
Best Weight Loss Program About Face Aesthetics & Wellness
Best Wigs/Hair Pieces Merle Norman – Chapin
Best Window Replacement Sheppard’s Glass
Best Window Tinting Palmetto Pro Tint
Best Wings Carolina Wings & Ribhouse
Best Women’s Clothing Boutique Treasures of the Heart Boutique
Best Write In Closets By Design
The Benefits of Adding a Dog to Your Family
by Kay Jones
Dogs are adorable, loyal, and full of energy. Whether you have owned a dog before or not, you probably feel something special when you encounter a dog. If you are considering adding a dog to your family, there are many great reasons to do so. Here are just four benefits of adding a dog to your home.
Dogs Keep You Active
No doubt owning a dog will keep you active. Not only do dogs require daily walks, but oth er activities involved will keep you moving. Owning a dog requires you to feed them, groom them, and play with them. If you enjoy hiking, dogs can make the best hiking companions. Many dogs also love running if that is your activity of interest. The good news is that even if you aren’t active yet, a dog will help you become active. The benefits of being physically active include reduced blood sugar, improved blood pressure, and help with weight control.
Dogs Are Loyal Companions
Dogs are loyal and provide unconditional love. They will be there for you and your family through all of life’s ups and downs. Dogs don’t judge. They are there for you when you need them. Whether you or your children are feeling lonely, a family dog will provide comfort to those who need it. Dogs seem to have a sixth sense of when people are feeling down and are quick to offer warmth and affection.
In addition, dogs provide mental health benefits. The act of petting a dog or playing with a dog releases oxytocin and serotonin, which are feel-good hormones. These hormones help to reduce stress. Many studies have shown that spending time with dogs helps to reduce depression and anxiety.
Dogs Teach Children Responsibility
Bringing a dog into the family can help teach your children responsibility. They will learn how to care for a dog through grooming, feeding, and walking. The commitment to owning a dog is something the entire family can share. Taking care of a dog is a different type of chore than washing dishes or making their bed. Taking care of another living being teaches compassion, consistency, and time management. As children take care of the dog, they will feel a greater sense of accomplishment and confidence.
Dogs Love Fun
As mentioned, dogs are a wonderful way to help you, and your family become more active. But there’s more to dogs than just going for walks. Dogs love to play. They especially love to play with their human family. You can play fetch, frisbee, and even tug-of-war with your beloved dog. If your dog loves other dogs, you can take him or her to a dog park to interact and play with other dogs. This will allow you to socialize with other dog owners and laugh at your dog’s antics as they run around the park together. Having a dog in the family just makes life more fun. Adding a dog to your family is a wonderful choice. Dogs provide emotional support, unconditional love, and a lot of fun. n
South Carolina Military Museum
by Tyler Ryan
It comes as no surprise that South Carolina is a very pro-military state. In fact, according to WalletHub’s website, the Palmetto State ranks number one as a military-friendly state for several key reasons. With no taxes on military pensions, property tax exemptions, and employment practices, it is a clear choice when it comes to our men and women in uniform.
According to Colonel Saddler Taylor, the Executive Director of the South Carolina Military Museum, our connection to the military goes a lot deeper than great veterans’ programs. “South Carolina has a long history of service that was rooted in protecting the borders of the State, and of course, beyond,” said Colonel Taylor, who has also served in the South Carolina National Guard for twenty-eight years. “It is a legacy that carries forward when it comes to the sense of pride and service to the Community.”
“South Carolina was key in the success of the U.S. Revolution, and the State is
credited with turning the tide of the war,” he said. Although many people think more of the northeast when it comes to the Revolution, it turns out that, according to the Museum’s website, there were more battles and skirmishes fought in South Carolina than in any other start, with 30% of the war’s casualties happening here.
Colonel Taylor said that after getting smoked in New York State, the British looked to the Carolina Colonies, and places like Charleston, to make inroads. “It started out very positive for them, after taking Charleston, and of course, the Battle of Camden,” he said, continuing to say that
it was men like Francis Marion, Thomas Sumter, and Andrew Pickens who turned the tide for our victory.
An interesting point he makes is that although the Civil War started at Fort Sumter, most of the war was not fought in South Carolina.
The State has also played important roles in the Spanish War, and of course, both World Wars. Colonel Taylor points out that it was “Camp Jackson” that turned out thousands of troops during World War I, and of course, Lake Greenwood, Lake Murray, and several other places were training grounds for young flight crews learning how to fly the B-25 “Flying Fortresses” in World War II. Even the famed Tuskegee Airmen trained in Walterboro, he added.
It was for many historically significant reasons, from a military standpoint, and a passion for history, that in 1981, South Carolina National Guardsman Colonel Hugh McLaurin III secured a 900 square foot building and founded the South Carolina
National Guard Museum and State Weapons Collection in Sumter.
McLaurin operated the museum on a volunteer basis, in addition to his full-time duties with the Guard, and did so in Sumter until 1998. That was when the then Adjutant General, Stanhope Spears, wanted to give it more visibility and centrally locate it to the Guard Headquarters (The TAG), in Columbia. Over the next several years, the footprint of the renamed “South Carolina Military Museum” grew to a much larger facility, having taken over a maintenance shop designed to work on large wheeled military vehicles.
Fast forward another few years, and the museum had added another building, which brought it to about 20,000 square feet of exhibit space, collections, and even a classroom.
Colonel Taylor said that just about all of the artifacts come through private donations. This means that most of the things you will see at the museum aren’t just things from the past, but come with a specific story, something personal that belonged and was used by a parent, grandparent, or even son or daughter and all with a memory and meaning. “These are things that people are really connected to, so it is a very personal thing.”
The Colonel explained that because these aren’t just garage sale items, it allows the collection to not only represent a tool but also tell a specific story about a specific military member.
Colonel Taylor shared that the drive of his five-member paid staff also plays an important role. “They each bring their own professional expertise and perspective, and have a passion for ways to engage and tell the stories of the Community members who have served both State and Nation.”
The Colonel is proud of the ways they
can connect with the community, especially in the area of historical education programs aimed at schools. He said their programs are all tied to curriculum standards, to ensure that education time is not only enlightening, but also going to play a role in education. With the focus on the future by teaching the past, the museum does not charge K-12 schools to visit the facility, and will also go to a school if it is difficult for a school to come there, also free of charge. “Sometimes schools can’t come to us, whether it’s a money issue or scheduling issue, we make it not an issue.” He said they want to be a dynamic part of the Community, not just a place for people to go.
Although there is 20,000 square feet of footprint, the Museum is also always looking for ways to expand and provide more services, and something Colonel Taylor is looking forward to is a large exterior space, where kids can run around, families can enjoy, and programs can be facilitated.
The Museum is funded through various sources, including being a line-item on the operating budget of the Guard, but also a recipient of County funds, educational grants, and of course, private donations, which are accepted through a 501(c)3 Foundation, to ensure that monies that are donated go specifically to one of the missions of the Museum.
All-in-all, the South Carolina Military Museum is an amazing way to learn about history, but not only on the surface level. It is a place where you can gain an understanding and an appreciation for the many men and women who have contributed to Community and Country over 250 years. “It will take the rest of my life to scratch the surface of the number of South Carolinians who have served over the years, but that is what drives us,” Colonel Taylor said. n
Thanksgiving Dinner? Try These Etiquette Tips to Be a Great Thanksgiving Guest
by Max Christie
Being a great Thanksgiving host can be very hard work; however, being a great Thanksgiving guest can take effort, as well. It’s easy to believe that showing up with flowers and a bottle of wine is all you need to do to appear friendly and appreciative. Nevertheless, there’s more that may be called for. Keeping the following thoughts in mind could help you avoid mistakes and make gestures that feel meaningful to your host.
Whatever you do, think about whether you’re creating extra work
Bringing flowers can seem like a gesture that you can’t go wrong with. However, flowers make it necessary for the host to look for a vase and prepare it. A bottle of wine may be nice, except that it can burden the host with the task of arranging for an ice bucket or at least looking for extra space in an already crowded refrigerator. Bringing a dish of your own can seem thoughtful, but the host might need to make space in the oven for it. Bringing ice cubes can seem helpful, but the host would need to find room in their freezer. If you can bring your own vase, ice bucket, slow cooker, or cooler, it would require less work. Workfree contributions like gourmet crackers or a wheel of quality cheese could actually be the best kind of contribution. You could also ask the host what to bring ahead of time.
Come in prepared to help
There’s always too much for the host to do as they prepare Thanksgiving dinner, serve it, and clean up afterward. Help is always appreciated, even if it’s just circulating with a bottle and making sure everyone’s glass is topped up. However, it could be even better to arrive prepared to put yourself to work. This means bringing your own apron and not wearing an outfit that you would have to worry about while helping (an outfit with long, loose sleeves would be a bad idea, for example.) Additionally, you need to stay alert to make sure you don’t become more trouble than you’re worth while trying to help: for example, unless absolutely necessary, you wouldn’t want to get in everyone’s way in the kitchen while helping.
Bring
your
own containers for leftovers
Thanksgiving dinners usually end with more leftovers than the hosts know what to do with. Sending guests home with those leftovers is always an idea, but the host often doesn’t have enough containers to pack them in. Bringing your own set of easyto-carry containers could make things far easier for the host. However, you don’t want to make it appear to the host as if you are demanding leftovers or even that you would prefer specific items. You should simply mention that you’ve come equipped with containers should there be leftovers that the host wishes to get rid of.
Bring a stain remover
When there are lots of people gathered around the table handling food, there’s
Don’t say anything negative
You may feel that no Thanksgiving dinner is ever complete without a particular
Be Thankful
Finally, before you leave, make sure that you thank your host for a great
The Importance of Gutter Cleaning in the Fall
by Matthew Hue
When autumn arrives, trees put on a colorful show. But as those leaves begin to fall, they bring extra work for homeowners. One of the most important tasks of the season is cleaning gutters. While it may not be the most glamorous chore, keeping gutters clear of leaves and debris is essential to protecting your home from costly damage.
Why Gutters Matter
Gutters are designed to channel rainwater and melting snow safely away from your home’s roof, walls, and foundation. When gutters become clogged, water can overflow and pool in places where it doesn’t belong. Over time, this can cause roof leaks, basement flooding, and even structural issues. Clean gutters are your home’s first line of defense against water damage.
Fall Brings Extra Debris
Autumn is the season when gutters face the most stress. Falling leaves, pine needles, twigs, and seed pods quickly collect in troughs and downspouts. Add seasonal rainstorms, and you have the perfect recipe for blockages. Even if trees aren’t close to your home, wind can carry debris that ends up in your gutters. That’s why fall cleaning is especially critical; waiting until spring may be too late.
Risks of Neglecting Gutter Cleaning
Clogged gutters can cause a surprising range of problems:
• Roof damage: Standing water can seep under shingles, leading to leaks and rot.
• Foundation issues: Overflowing water often pools around the base of the house, eroding soil and stressing the foundation.
• Pest problems: Damp leaves make the perfect nesting spot for insects, rodents, and even birds.
• Landscape erosion: Water spilling over gutters can wash away mulch, plants, and soil, ruining landscaping efforts.
Benefits of Regular Cleaning
Making gutter cleaning part of your fall routine offers peace of mind and long-term savings. Clear gutters:
• Extend the life of your roof and siding.
• Prevent basement flooding and mold growth.
• Protect walkways and driveways from water damage.
• Keep pests from nesting near your home.
• Reduce the risk of expensive repairs later on.
A couple of hours of maintenance can save thousands of dollars on home repairs.
Preventative Options
If you want to minimize seasonal buildup, consider installing gutter guards or screens. While no system is completely maintenance-free, guards reduce the amount of debris that enters gutters and make cleaning easier. Regular inspections, at least twice a year, in spring and fall will help you catch problems early.
Protecting Your Home Investment
Your home is likely your biggest investment, and gutter maintenance plays a surprisingly large role in protecting it. Water damage, foundation cracks, and pest infestations are far more expensive to fix than seasonal cleaning. By taking time in the fall to clear out leaves and debris, you safeguard your roof, walls, basement, and landscaping.
A Small Task with Big Rewards
It’s easy to overlook gutters until something goes wrong, but preventive care pays off. Fall gutter cleaning is a small, manageable task that prevents major problems. Whether you tackle the job yourself or hire a professional, the effort ensures your home is ready to face the wet and icy months ahead. A clean gutter today means fewer headaches tomorrow, and a home that stays strong and secure through every season. n
Lexington County Holiday Guide
Curbside or Recycling Centers
Paper
Cardboard
Aluminum Cans
Plastic Bot tles & Jugs
ONLY Accepted at Recycling Centers
Used Cooking Oil/Grease
String Lights/Cookie Tins (Scrap Metal)
Flocked, Plastic or Decorated
Trees (Yard Trash)
How to Compost Natural Trees
Remove all decor
Break down wood pieces so they are not greater than 4' in Length or 4" in Diameter. (If unable to get to this size, please bring to the Edmund Landfill Composting Facility.)
*NOTE-not all centers accept clean wood waste. See below for a list of locations .
Bring to any of these locations and place in clean WOOD WASTE .
1. Augusta Rd- 4765 Augusta Rd, Lexing ton
2. Ball Park Rd- 301 Ball Park Rd, Lexing ton
3. Bush River Rd- 6109 Bush River Rd, Columbia
4. Chapin- 103 Distant Lane, Chapin
5. Edmund Collection Center- 325 Landfill Lane, Lexing ton
6. Edmund Landfill- 498 Landfill Lane, Lexing ton
7. Sandhills- 3241 Charleston HW Y, Cayce
spice OF LIFE
slow cooked & simple
Hawaiian Chicken
4 chicken thighs
2 cups pineapple, cut into 1” chunks
1 yellow onion, cut into 1″ chunks
3 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp soy sauce
½ cup dark brown sugar
1 Tbsp ginger, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1″ chunks
Lightly brown the chicken and then add it to the slow cooker with the pineapple and onion. Mix the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 5 hours or high for 3 hours. Add the cornstarch to a tablespoon of water, mix, and add to the slow cooker with the bell peppers and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Sausage, Spinach, & White Bean Soup
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 (12.8 oz) package sausage, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled & diced
2 celery ribs, diced
2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained & rinsed
½ tsp dried oregano
2 bay leaves
4 cups chicken broth
salt and pepper
3 cups baby spinach
½ cup Parmesan, shaved
Lightly brown the sausage and then add it to the slow cooker with the garlic, onion, carrots, celery, beans, oregano, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the chicken broth and 2 cups of water. Cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. Stir in the spinach until it is wilted and serve topped with Parmesan.
Honey Pork and Apples
1 (3-4 lb) pork loin
2 large apples, sliced
½ cup honey
2 Tbsp cinnamon
Slice slits in the pork loin and place 1-2 apple slices per slit. Layer the remaining apple slices in the bot-
tom of the slow cooker and drizzle with ½ of the honey. Place the pork on top of the apple slices and sprinkle cinnamon over everything. Put the remain ing apple slices on top, drizzle the remaining honey, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Gumbo
1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1” pieces
1 lb sausage, cut into 1” pieces
1 lb shrimp
1 onion, diced
1 green pepper, diced
1 jalapeno pepper
3 ribs celery, diced
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
3 tsp garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 Tbsp cajun seasoning
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp oregano
1 ⅓ cups rice, cooked
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, except for the shrimp and the rice. Cook on low for 6 – 7 hours, stirring occasionally. In the last hour of cooking, salt the shrimp lightly, and then add them to the slow cooker. In the last half hour of cooking, add the rice and stir.
Italian Chicken
2 lbs chicken breasts
½ lb fresh green beans, trimmed
1 ¼ lb red potatoes, diced
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
¼ tsp onion powder
2 garlic cloves, minced
Place the chicken, green beans, and potatoes in the slow cooker. Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, onion powder, and gar lic cloves. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken, green beans, and potatoes. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7 hours. n
Presented by Victoria Ares Allstate, the Chapin Chamber’s 2025 Fall Golf Classic was held at Timberlake Country Club on October 23rd.
The Golf Tournament helps raise funds for the Chamber including their Annie Epting scholarships given to senior students at local high schools each year.
