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Happy Easter Lexington! He has risen, He has risen indeed! I believe that God sent Jesus to earth to die for our sins so that we may be forgiven and seek everlasting life. What a burden is lifted from my shoulders knowing that if I repent, He will forgive me. I certainly am a sinner and am thankful for His grace.
I have known Minh Le (this month’s cover story) for close to twenty years. She used to own Classy Nails in the Flight Deck Shopping Center and my wife Donna would always rave about how awesome she was. I learned that Minh designed and produced custom women’s fashion clothing, since my wife Donna was one of her first customers. Minh’s talent always stood out to me and the world has finally recognized and embraced Minh for her positive spirit, relentless determination, and her God given talent of spinning fabric into masterpieces of fashion. She now is a designer for the stars, I think you will enjoy her story of triumph.
Thanks for reading Lexington Life Magazine! I appreciate and value our sponsors who make the magazine possible. Next month, our “baby” Noah will be graduating from high school. Donna and I are still trying to figure out what we are going to do with ourselves and an empty nest. Feel free to offer us your recommendations by email or on our facebook page. Enjoy the best that Spring offers, as the pollen washes away and the flowers bloom and blossom, take a deep breath and soak in all the beauty life offers.
I wish you and your family a Happy Easter. He has risen indeed!
Todd Shevchik
CALENDAR OFevents APRIL
Friday, April 4
Pilgrim Community Preschool Art
Festival
Pilgrim Lutheran Church | 1430 North Lake Dr. | Lexington | 5 pm – 8 pm
This fundraiser celebrates the creativity of preschoolers and brings together art, community, and fun. Discover beautiful artwork, support local artisans, and explore unique vendors.
Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5
Midlands Coin Show
Medallion Center
7309 Garners Ferry Rd. | Columbia
This family-friendly event includes a youth treasure hunt and coin collecting merit badge clinic for Scouting America. Free admission and parking. For more details visit midlandscoinclub.com.
Sunday, April 6
2025 Dining on the Dam Lake Murray Dam | 1832 N Lake Dr. Lexington | 5 pm – 9 pm
The Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center hosts one of Lexington’s most notable events, where over 1,000 guests enjoy food, cocktails, and live music on the Lake Murray Dam. For more information visit lexingtonsc.org.
Thursday, April 10 – Sunday, April 13
Midlands Spring Plant and Flower Festival
SC State Farmers Market 3483 Charleston Hwy. | West Columbia
Shop spring plants and flowers, gardening equipment, décor, and seasonal produce at the State Farmers Market. Admission and parking are free.
Sunday, April 20
Easter Sunrise Service
Pilgrim Lutheran Church | 1403 N. Lake Dr. | Lexington | 7 am Sunrise service and a light breakfast served by Lutheran Men in Mission outside under the gazebo.
Tuesday, April 22 – Sunday, April 27
Columbia Food and Wine Festival
Various Locations and Times
Columbia
This festival is a one-of-a-kind journey through Columbia’s finest plates and pours. For the schedule of events, locations, and tickets visit columbiafoodandwinefestival.com.
Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26
On the Border – The Ultimate Eagles Tribute Icehouse Amphitheatre
107 West Main St. | Lexington | 6 pm
On the Border pulls it off like no other Eagles tribute can. These guys emulate the true sound of Eagles’ music. For tickets visit icehouseamphitheater.com.
Saturday, April 26
Kid’s Day of Lexington
Lexington Municipal Complex & Icehouse Amphitheater | Lexington 10 am – 2 pm
This free event educates families on issues of health, safety, and environmental awareness. Enjoy food and entertainment while learning. For volunteer or sponsor information visit lexingtonkidsday.com.
Saturday, April 26
Kinetic Derby Day
Meeting St. and State St. | West Columbia | 11 am
The family-friendly event combines creativity, competition, and fun as teams build unique vehicles and sculptures. For more information visit kineticderbyday.com.
Tuesday, April 29
Lexington Community Band’s Spring Concert
Lakeside Middle School | 455 Old Cherokee Rd. | Lexington | 7:30 pm
Join the Lexington Community Band for their 10th Annual Spring Concert. This free event is open to the public.
The Downing Group
faithMATTERS
DAVID ANDES Director
“Oh God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you…to see your power and glory.” Psalm 63:1-2
Last summer I had the privilege of hiking mountains in North Georgia and the Linville Gorge area of Western NC. On one of these hikes, while I was praying, this phrase came to mind: “Want the view? Do the hike.” I took that to mean, “If I want to experience the wonder and beauty of the views at the top of the mountain, then I must be willing to do the hard hike to get there.” For the rest of that hike my mind wrapped around the parallels between hiking and following Jesus.
Awesome views are only accessible via trail. The abundant life through Jesus is only accessed by those who walk in His way.
Hiking is one step at a time. I must be vigilant about where I step (i.e. rocks, roots, mud). Following Jesus is a step-by-step, hour-by-hour journey, marked by vigilance, intentionality, and watchfulness.
A map (GPS) shows me if I am on track. The Word of God shows me if I am on track.
Hiking with a friend is best. My joy isn’t complete until I share it with another. Journey with a friend where spiritual successes can be celebrated.
If we are born again, we are implanted with a desire to experience the view; the abundant life that Jesus promised. We thirst after the “newness of life” offered in the Gospel. We are attracted to faith, love, and holiness. We long for peace, joy, and hope.
But here’s the rub. We want the view, but we’re often not committed to doing the hike, where real transformation happens. When it comes to our spiritual lives, doing the hike, doing the hard work, means rearranging and reordering our lives around the practices and rhythms that marked Jesus’ life. What are these practices and rhythms?
n Unhurried time alone with God in prayer and in His word.
n Meeting face to face with another Christ-follower for encouragement, confession, challenge, and prayer.
n Extended, uninterrupted times of retreat to listen to and align our hearts with The Father.
Our prayer for all of us is that we would earnestly engage in these practices and rhythms. That we would all embrace the hike so we can experience the view of God’s power and glory. Want the view? Do the hike! n
Join us at our Men’s Forum weekday mornings around Columbia. Learn more at focusedliving.com/what-we-do.
LEXINGTONleader
by Abigail Harris
Brittany Gladden
Bettering Lexington Through Literacy and Play
Brittany Gladden was born and raised in Lexington, SC. She attended White Knoll High School before being selected to attend the Governor’s School of Arts and Humanities in Greenville, SC. Gladden then returned to pursue her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of South Carolina. She has been the Director of the Friends of the Lexington Main Library for three years, following seven years in their Youth Services Department. Additionally, she serves as a substitute teacher in Lexington District One schools. Brittany has also held roles as a library assistant, pottery instructor, and summer camp organizer.
The Friends of Lexington Main Library is a non-profit organization supported by an extraordinary group of volunteers dedicated to enhancing the Lexington Library system and the local community. This vital organization offers enriching programs for residents, including children’s activities that encourage imagination and play, father-daughter
dances that foster meaningful moments between parents and children, college scholarships to help students pursue further academics, and much more.
The organization plays a pivotal role in the community, notably its annual Summer Reading Kickoff Party. The celebration welcomes over 1,300 participants, including children, teens, and adults. This event not only sparks excitement for reading but also plays a crucial role in combating the “summer slide,” helping to ensure that students in the Lexington District One area remain academically engaged during their summer break. The organization is also deeply committed to improving literacy rates in the community. Their innovative program, “Book by Book,” connects struggling readers to the public library in partnership with elementary school intervention programs to promote a love of reading starting at a young age.
The Friends of the Lexington Main Library strives to expand and provide more educational activities and com munity events for all ages by raising funds and awareness for the Lexington Main Library.
“As for where the Friends of the Li brary is headed in the coming years, I can tell you we have plans to grow along with Lexington, but I can’t be any more specific than that,” said Gladden.
“The Friends of Lexington will continue to work to provide support for literacy programs and for building community throughout the Town of Lexington. You will have to wait and see what’s coming next!”
In her free time, Gladden enjoys spending time with her eight-yearold son, Griffin. They love paddleboarding, playing board games, and geocaching. n
Styling a Seamless Fit Minh Nhut
When MINH NHUT LE was a child living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, she often was tasked to help with minor sewing work on clothes brought home from her grandparents’ tailoring shop.
Buttons needed to be put on. Rips needed to be repaired. Dresses needed hemming.
At age 7, Le learned to repair clothes and studied their construction, examining seams and imagining alterations.
By the time she was 10, Le was making patterns and sewing clothes for her dolls with fabric brought home by her grandmother.
Now, the Lexington resident, 52, is a fashion designer, creating tailored blazers, palazzo pants, and dresses for women all over the country. Her clients include University of South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley, and WNBA stars A’ja Wilson, and Kamilla Cardoso.
Her designs were noticed especially in February when singer Ledisi, wearing a white signature suit/dress combination, sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before the Super Bowl in New Orleans.
The owner of @831Minhle on Main Street in Lexington now has a national client base, dressing sports figures, business leaders, and others who know the power of a well-fitted outfit.
The spring 2025 collection was shown last fall at New York Fashion Week. Her fashions have been shown in Paris, and she aims to bring her style to Milan. Le’s
Le
by Betsey Guzior
spring collection includes blazers, palazzo pants, slip dresses, and long skirts in bright solid colors.
She plays with tweeds for tailored jackets and long, slim fit coats. You will often see a wild print on Le in her own creations.
Her recent runway appearances vastly differ from her early days assisting her grandparents in their shop as a teenager in Vietnam. By the time she was 20, she opened her tailoring shop, using fabric brought in by her customers to create dresses.
Le came to the United States in 1994, but instead of pursuing her dream of designing and creating fashions, Le began working in a nail salon, eventually owning salons in a career that lasted 20 years, settling in Lexington in 2008, marrying and raising two children.
It was while working with nail customers that she heard how frustrated they were about clothes that did not fit.
“They feel anxious and self-conscious about their body when they go shopping,” Le said. She began to pick up her
For me, it’s about conversation, like teamwork.
sewing again, “just to relax,” making outfits for herself.
Nail customers admired Le’s clothes so much that they began to ask if she could make something for them. By 2017, she was showing her work at New York Fashion Week. She sold the nail salon a year later.
Le’s passion is the fit, something she learned early by dissecting those clothes brought home by her grandmother to fix. “My focus is on the real body,” she said.
It is not an easy process. Many times, she will take a piece back if she does not feel that the fit makes her client feel comfortable. “I cannot sell stuff if it doesn’t fit well.”
And that’s why Staley, Wilson, and Cardoso are especially keen to work with Le. She works with their height, body types, and styles to create fashions that they can easily move in. “For me, it’s about conversation, like teamwork.”
She studies their public movements, their social media, and what makes them happy. “I have an eye to see how to compliment the person,” she said.
Le has worked with Wilson, now with the Las Vegas Aces, for about four years, creating outfits for her fashionable walkins for WNBA games, which has become a de facto runway show for women and men professional athletes.
Staley’s look consists of jackets that give her style while being able to move around on the basketball sidelines. Le is working on a jacket that you might see in the NCAA tournament this spring.
Now Le has a staff who can travel to fashion week while she stays at home working on commissions. Her shop at 403 E. Main St., Suite C in Lexington is also a retail shop, with T-shirts for sale that say “Born 2b Real, not perfect.” 831Minhle stands for “8 letters, 3 words, one powerful meaning: “I love you.”
It continues to be a learning experience for Le, as she expands her business with staff and shows.
“Every day, I am surrounded by people who inspire me to do better,” Le said. n
Bike4Life Fundraiser Jack’s Pack
by Janelle Lewis
Lexington High School Sophomore Hannah Vitters will host the 2nd Annual Bike-A-Thon fundraiser on May 3rd at Lexington United Methodist Church beginning at 9 am. The Bike4Life Fundraiser is in honor of her 8-year-old cousin, Jack Timmerman, who was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2023.
This neurological disorder has caused Jack to have seizures, and he has gone almost completely blind. Jack’s particular variant, only one in 190,000 live births, is rare. There currently is no cure for Batten Disease. Treatment focuses on symptom management such as medications, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
Vitters incorporated something Jack loves while helping raise money for research. She shared, “Jack has always loved biking. On vacations, he would ride the tandem and we would ride our bikes next to him. I wanted to do something he could enjoy even without his vision.”
She continued, “I hope this event not only helps Batten Disease patients but all kids and families struggling with childhood illnesses and life-threatening diseases.”
The event, which will be held in conjunction with the Make-AWish Foundation, will include a DJ, special guests, Pelican’s Snoballs, MELT Grilled Cheese Co. food truck, and raffle prizes.
If you are interested in participating or donating, scan the QR code or call (803) 673-8043. n
Off on the right foot
Lexington Medical Center welcomes new podiatrist
by Erin Bluvas
Already serving the Midlands area at four locations, Lexington Medical Center has expanded their podiatry services even further by welcoming Dr. Karli Richards to their Chapin office. Originally from Pennsylvania, Richards has 16 years of experience, board certifications in foot/ankle surgery and wound management, and a passion for injury prevention and treatment in both soccer (especially for female athletes) and water sports.
“I learned how to pass a scalpel at the dinner table,” said Richards, whose father and grandfather were orthopedic surgeons. “I grew up looking at x-rays and visiting patient rooms and have been interested in medicine for as long as I can remember.”
With inspiration from her orthopedic roots, Richards decided to specialize in foot and ankle care by becoming a podiatrist.
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame, where she was on the diving team, she earned her podiatric medicine degree at Temple University before completing a three-year residency in foot and ankle surgery at St. Luke’s Hospital where she was chief resident.
Richards then joined the family orthopedics practice, which happened to provide care for the local high school where Richards’ sister was playing soccer. The youngest of five, this sister would go on to become a podiatrist too, but at that moment, she was facing her first ACL tear, she would sustain a second in college, and a traumatic brain injury.
“My siblings and I all played soccer throughout high school,” Richards said. “My husband played in college, and I was a springboard diver, so injury prevention and treatment for athletes has always been on my mind.”
As one of the team doctors, Richards began noticing a pattern. Female athletes were experiencing ACL injuries at much higher rates than males. She launched a small project with her sister’s team to see what might be contributing to these higher injury rates.
“We looked at biomechanics, including the different ways that females and males walk, neuromuscular differences, hormone cycles, orthotics – every relevant factor we could think of,” Richards said. “We found correlations between these factors and female injuries. This is when my passion for educating, preventing, and treating female athletes really began.”
This type of inquiry runs in the family. Richards’ grandfather was one of the first people to describe non-contact ACLs in a scientific paper. Before the early 1970s, and
without the aid of sophisticated imaging techniques like MRIs and CTs, coaches and clinicians didn’t realize that athletes could sustain this type of injury from an athlete planting one or both feet and then turning, without any external impact.
Though patient care through her everyday practice is her primary focus, Richards has continued her research since that initial study with her sister’s high school soccer team. Working with professional teams and clubs, she has conducted research where she collects data related to all the circumstances surrounding an injury. Factors she examines include playing surface, type of shoe, phase of menstrual cycle, and more.
Over the years, Richards has become known for her passion and expertise in this area. She and her husband have served as the U.S. Ambassadors for the nonprofit organization, Spirit of the Football e.V. since 2021. Through this work and other invitations, such as an international conference organized by FIFA, Richards engages in public speaking and writes articles about injury prevention and treatment in the world of soccer, especially for female athletes.
Richards brought all these experiences with her from Pennsylvania when she made the move to South Carolina last fall. She and her family were drawn to the warm weather that supports their love of water skiing. They all compete at national and international levels, and, yes, she’s dedicated to injury prevention education in this sport as well, but Richards was also passionate about the opportunity to serve patients as a member of Lexington Medical Center’s medical staff.
“I love the Lexington Medical Center hospital system – how it’s structured and how they are very focused on a great experience for both the patient and the employ-
“I love the Lexington Medical Center hospital system –how it’s structured and how they are very focused on a great experience for both the patient and the employee.”
ee,” Richards said. “Their approach creates a nice work-life balance where we are motivated to provide the very best patient care.”
At the Chapin office, Richards is located right next to urgent care and the orthopedics practice. It’s the perfect setup for their frequent collaborations and referrals. She works closely with these and other groups to coordinate care for patients with complex medical needs, like individuals who have diabetes and need routine foot checks for circulation, sensation, and the possibility of nonhealing wounds.
“I love the team approach we use at Lexington Medical Center,” Richards said. “There are always multiple specialties connected and communicating to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.” n
businessSPOTLIGHT
Beauty in the Blooms
by Abigail Harris
“From the moment I saw my first bloom, I realized that people - myself included - are starving for beauty,” said Lauren Hollis, owner of Aurora Meadows Farm & Floristry. “We move through life so fast, burdened with responsibilities, sorrows, distractions, and endless to-do lists. There is no escaping that. We have to care for our people, work our jobs, and wash the dishes. But when I was at my lowest the simple joy of seeing that first David Austin rose open, one I had carefully tended all spring, became a source of hope. It reminded me that if something so delicate could endure and thrive, maybe I could too.”
Aurora Meadows Farm & Floristry is a cut flower farm between Gilbert and Lexington, South Carolina offering seasonal, heirloom-quality blooms through markets, bouquet subscriptions, bloom bars, and a la carte wedding and event florals. Hollis’ love of growing flowers followed a prolonged and life-altering trauma she experienced. During this hard season, Hollis began to grow flowers as part of her healing process. While tending to her flower garden, she realized she had a knack for growing flowers and began to immerse herself in learning all she could about growing, arranging, and running a floral business.
Hollis shared “My biggest inspiration, both in life and in my work, is my faith in
God. Flower farming was not something I planned on, but it has become a tangible way for me to see His kindness amid uncertainty. I started growing flowers during a season of deep grief when everything felt uncertain and heavy. Each morning, I would walk through my little backyard garden at dawn, tending to the plants and willing them to survive. In many ways, I felt like we were in it together - both trying to make it through.”
She continued, “Gradually those mornings became something more. Each day as the first light of the sun touched my face, it was like a quiet reminder that the darkness would not last forever. No matter how heavy life felt, light would always return. I named my farm Aurora Meadows because aurora means dawn, and those moments at sunrise reminded me that God’s mercies are new every morning. Now, as I grow flowers on a bigger scale and share them with others, I hope to pass along that same sense of renewal and beauty. To me, flowers are more than just something pretty - they are a reflection of God’s care, a way to remind people that His light will always break through the dark.”
Aurora Meadows offers bouquet subscriptions where subscribers receive a fresh, handcrafted bouquet each week, filled with the best flowers growing on the farm at that time. Hollis will be at upcoming local markets, including The Market at Icehouse in Lexington and Mary’s Mobile Market in Irmo. For an events calendar and details on subscription and other services visit aurorameadowsfarm.com. n
Thomas and Jayne Falk Franchise Owners
Easter Basket Gift Ideas
ALTERNATIVES TO CANDY
by Ann Howard
If you are trying to cut back on unhealthy treats, it can be difficult to come up with ideas to put in an Easter basket. If you want to stay away from candy, consider a few of these alternatives.
Books
No matter your child’s age, you can find a book that matches their reading level to put in their basket. Encourage learning by giving your child a book that will interest them this Easter.
Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals are a great way to fill a basket. A cute bunny or a baby duck are great Easter plushies.
Seeds
Spring is a great time to teach kids about growing plants. Get a pot with some soil, put some seeds in it, and watch them grow.
Erasers
Erasers come in all shapes and sizes, and they can be used for drawing or homework and are always useful to have on hand.
Reusable Water Bottles or Tumblers
Practical and trendy—what’s not to love? Reusable water bottles or tumblers are perfect for staying hydrated in style.
Fidget Toys
Stress balls, silly putty, simple dimple keychains, or cool pop-its are great for all ages.
Beaded Bracelets or Jewelry-Making Kits
Jewelry-making kits with colorful beads and elastic bands are perfectly sized for Easter baskets while sparking their creativity.
Bubbles, Sidewalk Chalk, Jump Rope
Spring brings excitement in the air. Playing outside on the first warm days of the year is always fun and these outdoor activities will keep kids entertained for hours.
Craft Supplies
Art supplies always come in handy, especially on rainy days. Crayons, paints, paper, tape, and glue are all craft supplies that your kids will be excited about getting.
Harmonica
Musical instruments are great to give as gifts because they are educational and fun.
Flashlight
Kids are all about exploring and flashlights are fun for them inside and outside. They are also a great tool to use if you have a little one who does not want to go to bed alone.
Bath Toys
Spring-themed bath toys, like rubber duckies or squirt toys shaped like bunnies or chicks, are always a hit.
Activity dates
Kids love spending time with you. Put something symbolic in their basket that represents a fun activity you can do with them and explain it to them when they open it.
Gift Cards/Money
When in doubt, slide a gift card in the basket to their favorite store where your child can pick out their own gift. n
ProStart A recipe for success
by Tenell Felder
High school students in Lexington County schools are getting the opportunity to gain real-world experience in restaurant management and culinary arts through ProStart – a two-year program under the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) that trains students on the intricacies of food service and culinary arts.
There are currently more than 2,100 schools nationally that participate in the program, with more than 214,000 students involved. ProStart provides these students a bridge into the practicalities of the restaurant industry and is currently offered at
Lexington Technology Center and the Center for Advanced Technical Studies.
Danielle Mize is the culinary arts instructor at the Lexington Technology Center.
“Lexington Technology Center is a ProStart school which means that we are a member of the National Restaurant As sociation, and we are also a member of the South Carolina
Restaurant and Lodging Foundation. ProStart is made for high school students to join, start networking, and learn skills for their future endeavors,” said Mize.
Students have an opportunity to earn a certificate of achievement by completing industry hours and passing two exams on the foundations of restaurant management and culinary arts.
“Being a ProStart school means that students have the opportunity to become ProStart certified. You must take two different tests and complete 450 hours within the industry so that through ProStart you can obtain an industry certification,” explained Mize.
Mize noted that not all students decide to try to obtain the certification, but that the opportunity is presented to interested students.
“Not all students take that opportunity, but for students that want to go into the industry and want to continue with their education, we
try to push them in that direction. A lot of times ProStart gives vouchers so we can get students certified and help offset the cost through our schools,” she shared.
Mize has appreciated seeing the growth that her students experience as they pursue their certifications.
“When they achieve certifications, growth comes with it. We started at point A and now we’re at point B. Seeing these kids being able to enter the industry already with ProStart certifications is great,” she said.
Mize also said that some of her students have had the opportunity to participate in events to gain experience catering and managing events.
“In addition to certification, we have participated in some ProStart events. We take part in the Hall of Fame dinner in Columbia every year in November. The students get to attend and prepare hors d’oeuvres and things like that for a couple of hundred people. So, they are getting industry level experience,” she explained.
Mize says that getting industry experi-
ence is what prepares her students for life after they have completed high school.
“We are preparing to cater a job for 150 people, so my students get to do another hands-on activity and are able to learn the industry from a real-life scenario. These kids are graduating from high school ready and prepared for suc cessful careers,” she said.
This gained experi ence also places ProStart students in a better position to enter into the industry ready to begin work. Through the program, students have the opportunity to test for their food handler and safe manag er certifications.
restaurant you will have to have that certification. So, it is already putting those students ahead of the game even while they are still in high school,” she said.
Mize also noted seeing how having those certifications boosted the confidence of her students.
“Programs like ProStart are a great way of getting students the base knowledge they need to be successful.”—
Patrick Duggan
“Already having that certification and knowledge under their belt takes them to a higher level of being employed and builds their confidence of saying ‘I can do this, I can go into the industry, I have this base level of knowledge that puts me ahead of a lot of people,’ ” she said.
Patrick Duggan is a chef instructor at the Center for Advanced Technical Studies which also participates in ProStart. He noted the program’s training on the practical and academic side of the restaurant industry.
“Some of the things ProStart provides are business modules, like how to open a corporation, the history of food … the academic side of the culinary arts,” he explained.
Duggan first heard of ProStart while attending Johnson and Wales University College of Culinary Arts, when he assisted with the program’s culinary competition.
“My level one students take the food handler test and my level two students take the safe manager test. If you are going to be the manager of a
He was reintroduced when he started teaching at the high school level about 10 years ago and saw more that the program had to offer to students.
Today, Duggan and his students have participated in ProStart competitions which allow competitors the opportunity to showcase culinary and management skills.
“The ProStart culinary competition is a 4-to-5-person team where they have a couple hours to cook a three-course meal in front of judges. That is the culinary side of the competition,
but there is also a management side where they create a restaurant and build it from the ground up. They talk about floor plans, their business model, how they will run the restaurant, and what equipment they will need,” Dugan said.
Competition winners have the opportunity to receive scholarships as well as networking opportunities.
Like Dugan, Mize’s background is in the culinary arts. Her career has spanned 25 years and she has used her knowledge of the industry to help guide her students through their anticipated careers.
“I’ve had multiple jobs from corporate catering to owning several restaurants. I have been fortunate enough to see all sides of the industry,” she said.
Mize shared that it is rewarding when she hears from former students who are well prepared for their college courses.
“I have a former student who is at Johnson and Wales in Charlotte, NC in her first two semesters. She told me that she already knows 90% of the material presented in her classes. That is great to hear that she felt well prepared,” said Mize.
When reflecting on the program, Dug-
gan credits it for adequately preparing students for a career in culinary arts.
“ProStart gives them a leg up if they are looking at college and thinking about being
in the industry. Programs like ProStart are a great way of getting students the base knowledge they need to be successful. It’s a strong program,” Duggan said. n
5 Ways Hobbies Can Improve Your Life
by Jack Burden
Americans are working more than ever before. The average workweek for full-time employees has increased to 47 hours, and more than a third of Americans now work on Saturday or Sunday.
As if the endless hours at work are not enough, many of us have developed “workaholism.” Work can be so consuming that people may neglect their other responsibilities and give up activities they once enjoyed. And when people do not take time for themselves, it can lead to depression and anxiety.
Some Americans are finding relief in hobbies like running, reading, or gardening. These are ways to take a break from work-related stress without distancing oneself from family or friends.
Hobbies can provide a creative outlet.
When people spend their time and energy thinking about only one thing--their work--their creativity may suffer. Hobbies can encourage creative thinking in several different ways. Hobbies give people the opportunity to use their imagination and create something, whether it is a picture, a story, or an object. They can also be creative in how they spend their time, for example, they might plan their own workouts or decide when to read.
Hobbies keep you active.
People who take up outdoor activities tend to have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Research also suggests that regular exercise can improve your mental health. While people who engage in hobbies do not necessarily have better moods, they may feel more satisfied with life and be better able to manage stress without resorting to unhealthy behaviors.
Hobbies help you learn new things.
As you learn new skills, you feel more empowered and self-confident. Hobbies such as woodworking or cooking provide opportunities to try out different activities that you might not have done before. Whether you work on a car engine or bake a cake, the experience can be fun and informative.
Hobbies can provide an opportunity to spend time with family.
While hobbies are oftentimes done alone, there are many ways to share the experience with your family members and friends. Hobbies can also help you connect with family members who may not see eye to eye on politics or other issues. Hobbies such as fishing, scrapbooking, and camping provide opportunities to spend time with your family in a non-competitive way.
Hobbies can help you make new friends.
Hobbies that are done in groups, like knitting groups or running clubs, can be good ways to meet people with similar interests. These friends might also become clients or business associates down the line.
If you are feeling stressed from work or family responsibilities, find an activity that brings you joy. Hobbies allow us the opportunity to relax and enjoy something we like to do. And when we take time for ourselves, we usually feel better about the things we do for others. n
His House More Than a Thrift Store
by Abigail Harris
Providing a place that offers rest and rehabilitation, His House Thrift Stores and Grace Men’s Program work hand in hand to bring hope and healing to the Midlands. Since its founding in 1975 by Reverend Garland Ramsey, this nonprofit has been helping provide a place of recovery and restoration for men suffering from alcohol addiction. For the last 50 years, Grace Men’s Program has been funded 100% by the profits from His House Thrift Store and the generous donations of residents in Lexington and Richland counties. Donated items such as clothing, furniture, and household items are sold at a reasonable price at one of the four His House store locations, which in turn helps the program continue to serve the community.
In 1991 Bishop Roger Weaver moved his family to South Carolina, where he pastored at Suburban Baptist Church. A few years later, he
founded Meeting Street Chapel, where he was the Senior Pastor until his death, along with his role as Director and then as President at His House.
Weaver passed away in 2024 and his daughter, Reverend Mandy Reynolds, is the newly appointed President of His House.
Reynolds shared, “Growing up, I was homeschooled and had the opportunity to be supportive and active in various aspects of my parent’s ministry.” After finishing high school and some college, she founded a mobile gymnastics business, which she operated successfully for several years before feeling the call to something more. She went on to finish her degree at Columbia International University, and it was during this time that she met and married her husband, Reverend Jason Reynolds. They both felt the Lord directed them to be involved in the ministry at His House. Over the years, they have tried to help in a number of ways, first as members of Meeting Street Chapel and later as staff. As church members, they worked in the Meeting Street Chapel, helped coordinate special events, taught Bible School, and installed computers. Fifteen years ago, Reynolds joined the staff at His House fulltime, and her husband joined the ministry staff three years ago. At that time, they completed their training to be the future leaders of His House under Bishop Weaver as Vice President and IT Director.
When discussing the philosophy behind His House and Grace Men’s Program, Reynolds said, “The work of His House has remained the same for the last 50 years. We believe that it is only through Jesus Christ that a person can truly be set free from addiction. God has given us a vision to take the items that people no longer want or need and use them to help those that many have given up on because of their alcohol addiction.”
His House feeds, clothes, and houses men in the Grace Men’s Recovery pro-
Mandy and Jason Reynolds
Roger and Mary Weaver
gram at no cost to the participants. To enter the program, one must commit to staying for a minimum of 90 days. They are encouraged to stay in the program for at least a year, and many do extend their time beyond the mandatory 90 days. There is no set time they must leave the program as long as they continue to make progress. In 2018, the location at Meeting Street suffered from a terrible fire. That fire destroyed one of the His House stores, offices, and one of the residential houses. Since then, the store on Meeting Street has reopened, and the offices have relocated to Lake Dogwood Drive in West Columbia. Currently, the Grace Men’s Program can house only 36, while its maximum capacity before the fire was 48. The plan is to eventually sell all of their current housing properties in West Columbia and build new housing at Lake Dogwood Drive to increase the capacity to 50 or more.
What inspires Reynolds in her work?
“In Matthew chapter 25, Jesus tells us that whatever we do to the least of His brothers, we do to Him,” she said. “Any of us are only a few choices or unfortunate breaks in life away from being ‘the least,’ but the good news is that we are also only a few
steps in the right direction to getting back on track. My biggest inspiration is seeing the men who come through the Grace Men’s Program let God change their lives. I have seen God restore relationships with family, open doors for employment, and physically heal and restore in ways that seem impossible. I am honored to be a part of what the Lord is doing through His House Ministries,” she said.
Their staff of ministers work seamlessly together in various ways to oversee the Thrift Store operations and minister to each client as they progress in the rehabilitation process. They also provide instruction in Christian Lifestyles and Bible Study at Meeting Street Chapel located at 775 Meeting Street in West Columbia at 8 am Monday-Saturday, Wednesday at 6 pm, and Sunday at 10 am, and at Metro 1 Flea Market on Sunday at 8 am. All of their services are open to the public. n
His House Thrift Store
167 Highway 378 | Lexington, SC 29072
HisHouseSC.com | 803-791-0557
Donations of used items are always welcomed and can be dropped off during normal business hours or call to arrange pick-up of donations.
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
Simple Techniques to Feel CONFIDENT in Any Room
by Daniel Moss
Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers and instantly felt your heart race? Your mind scrambles for the right words, and suddenly, you feel small - unsure how to blend in. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Many people struggle with social confidence, whether at networking events, casual get-togethers, or even among friends.
The truth is, confidence is not something you are just born with – it is a skill you can develop. With the right approach, you can overcome social anxiety, improve your conversation skills, and feel more at ease in any setting. Here are a few simple but powerful ways to boost your confidence and feel comfortable in any room. Reframe Your Inner Dialogue
Social anxiety often starts in your head. That little voice says, “I’ll say something stupid,” or “They won’t like me,” and before you know it, self-doubt takes over, making conversations feel even more stressful.
The trick to breaking this cycle is cognitive reframing - a simple yet powerful way to shift negative thought patterns into more supportive ones. Instead of thinking, “I always come across as awkward,” try, “I’m learning to feel more comfortable in social situations.”
A great way to practice this is by writing down your most common social fears and rewording them into confident, positive statements. The more you do this, the more your brain starts believing it, helping social interactions feel less intimidating. Build Confidence One Step at a Time Avoiding social situations might feel like
a quick fix, but it actually makes anxiety worse. The more you dodge interactions, the more intimidating they become. The best way to build confidence is through progressive exposure - starting small and working your way up.
Begin with low-pressure interactions, like making eye contact and offering a quick smile to a stranger. Then, try casual small talk with a barista or a brief conversation with a shop assistant. As you step outside your comfort zone, your brain adapts, making socializing feel more natural and less overwhelming.
There will be setbacks, and that is okay. What matters is the progress you are making - no matter how small. Every positive interaction strengthens your confidence.
Shift Your Focus to Others
Social anxiety often comes from overthinking how you sound, how you look, or whether people like you. The quickest way to break this cycle is to shift your attention outward. When you focus on being genuinely curious about others, you naturally feel less self-conscious.
Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken?” or “Has anything exciting happened in your life lately?” Showing interest not only keeps conversations flowing but also makes people feel valued.
Active listening is just as importantnod, maintain eye contact, and respond thoughtfully to show you’re engaged. The more you focus on others, the less time you will spend overthinking.
Adopt Confident Body Language
The way you stand, move, and make eye contact can influence social interactions. With open, relaxed body language, you will not only appear more confident, but over time, it will help you feel that way too.
Stand tall with your shoulders back, keep your chin up, and maintain an open stance. Avoid crossing your arms or looking down, as these can make you seem closed off or uneasy. Eye contact matters, but don’t overdo it - try the “triangle technique” by shifting your gaze between a person’s eyes and mouth to show you are engaged without staring.
Before stepping into a social setting, take a moment to reset with a “confi-
dence stance” - stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, keep your hands relaxed, and take a deep breath. This simple technique signals to your brain that you are in control, helping you feel at ease.
Prepare Ahead
Walking into an event without a plan can heighten anxiety, but a little preparation can go a long way. Knowing what to expect gives you a sense of control, making interactions feel more manageable.
Before heading out, take a moment to
research the setting, the crowd, and possible conversation topics. Visualizing positive interactions - seeing yourself feeling relaxed, smiling, and chatting with easecan also boost confidence.
It helps to have a few go-to conversation starters in mind, like current events or recent experiences. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, stepping outside for fresh air or taking a deep breath can help you reset and feel more composed.
Applying These Techniques to Dating
These techniques are just as effective for first dates and romantic encounters. Reframing negative thoughts can help calm your nerves, curiosity keeps the conversation flowing, and confident body language can create attraction.
If dating anxiety holds you back, progressive exposure can be a game-changer. Start with low-pressure situations - like group outings or casual meetups - before moving to more personal, one-on-one dates. The more you practice, the more naturally confident you will feel, turning dating into something exciting rather than stressful.
Your Journey to Lasting Social Confidence
Building social confidence takes time –it is all about steady, consistent progress. These techniques work best when practiced regularly, and the key is being patient with yourself. Even small wins add up.
Start by focusing on one technique today - whether it is reframing your inner dialogue, initiating a small social interaction, or improving your body language. Each step builds momentum, and before you know it, walking into any room will feel more natural and comfortable. n
spice OF LIFE
Delicious Dips
7 Layer Mexican 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 over the top of the beans. Mix the sour cream, cream cheese, and taco seasoning until smooth and creamy and spread over the guacamole. Layer on the shredded cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
BLT Dip
2 cups sour cream
2 cups mayonnaise
2 lbs sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled
6 plum tomatoes, chopped
3 green onions, chopped
Additional crumbled cooked bacon and chopped green onions
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, bacon, tomatoes, and onions. Refrigerate until serving. Garnish with bacon and onions and serve with crackers or chips for dipping.
Crab Dip
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
½ lemon, zested and juiced
1 ½ tsp Old Bay Seasoning
8 oz lump crab meat, drained
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve ½ cup)
½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 green onions, sliced (reserve 1 tsp)
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and seafood seasoning until smooth. Fold in crab meat, 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and green onions. Spread the mixture evenly in a
prepared dish and sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese and green onions on the top. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the surface is browned and the dip is bubbly. Serve warm with cros tini, crackers, bread, potato chips, flatbread, pretzels, or vegetables for dipping.
Veggie Pizza Dip
2 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
¾ cup red bell pepper
¾ cup cauliflower
¾ cup broccoli
¾ cup carrots
¼ cup red onion
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Combine and mix the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning. Set aside 1 ½ cups of the vegetables. Add the remaining vegetables and shredded cheddar cheese to the cream cheese mixture and stir to combine. Sprinkle the top with the reserved chopped vegetables.
Refrigerate for 2-3 hours and serve with bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
Baked Potato
Dip
8-10 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
2 cups sour cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
⅓ cups chives or green onion, chopped
2 tsp hot sauce
1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix
Crumble cooked (and cooled) bacon into a mixing bowl. Add sour cream, cheese, chives, hot sauce, and ranch seasoning to the bowl and stir together. Sprinkle with potato toppings: salt and pepper, more bacon, and cheese. Serve with crackers or chips for dipping.
7 Layer Mexican Dip
BLT Dip
Crab Dip
Veggie Pizza Dip
Baked Potato Dip
Greek Hummus Dip
1 (17 oz) hummus
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
⅓ cup crumbled feta
1 tomato, diced
½ cucumber, diced
⅓ cup kalamata olives, diced a few sprigs of parsley
Spread the container of hummus onto the bottom of a shallow serving bowl. Dollop the Greek yogurt over the hummus and spread it out into a thin layer. Top with crumbled feta, diced tomato, diced cucumber, olives, and parsley. Serve with pita chips, bagel chips, or naan bread for dipping.
Sausage and Beer Cheese Dip
14 oz cooked sausage, crumbled
4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
5 green onions, thinly sliced
1 packet ranch seasoning
¾ cup beer
2 (8 oz) cream cheese
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Brown the sausage in an oven-safe pan on medium heat. Add cream cheese, ranch packet, ½ chopped green onions, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Stir frequently with a spatula to melt, then slowly pour beer into the pan, and mix into cheese. Top with remaining cheese and green onions. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown. Serve with pretzels, corn chip scoops, bread, or pita chips for dipping.
Spinach Dip
10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise and mix until smooth. Stir in the mozzarella, parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper. Fold in the drained spinach until evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, spread it out evenly, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread, crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dip
2 (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup strawberry jam
In a bowl, beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form and set it aside.
In another bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract and beat until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish, stir the strawberry jam, and spoon it over the top. Use a knife to swirl the jam into the cream cheese mixture, creating a marbled effect.
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes and serve with wafers, graham crackers, or pretzels for dipping.
Oreo Dip
18 Oreo cookies
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Place the Oreo cookies in a zip lock bag and use a rolling pin to crush the cookies into small pieces. Combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Use a spatula to fold in the whipped cream and then the crushed Oreos. Transfer to a bowl and serve with fruit, graham crackers, or wafers for dipping. n
Greek Hummus Dip
Sausage and Beer Cheese Dip
Spinach Dip
Oreo Dip
Strawberry Cheesecake Dip
Caregiver’s Support Group
Young Billy’s Angels
Young Billy is 40, and he said: “Nah, there’s no such thing as angels.”
He spoke of plans that didn’t work out the way he wanted them to. “Life just has it in for me and I can’t catch a break no matter what.”
Most old folks like myself completely understand the young man’s comments. Any honest person can look back and see their mistakes and also the unexplainable obstacles. Young Billy was dumbfounded about how he would proceed and how he would ever have a chance to succeed in anything.
I told him that talking about those feelings was the smartest thing he could do.
“Yeah, you say that, but you don’t care what happens to me. You don’t know me. Everywhere you look there are people who don’t care.”
I told Young Billy: “You are correct that I don’t know you. I’ve only known you for a few minutes, so I can’t say I know enough about you to care about you personally one way or another.”
“Man, you’re pretty blunt, that’s for sure.”
“Well, Billy, there’s a couple of things I do know for sure. One is that I’m standing here listening to you.”
“I’ll give you that. Why are you doing that, anyway?”
“That’s one thing I know for sure. It’s because when I was a young man there were a couple of old cantankerous goats who listened to me and shot straight with me. Several of them made me really think things through. They gave me hell and demanded that I grow up and get back in the game. They came by and checked on me and wanted to know how I was doing. They didn’t know me any better than I know you, but they did it anyway.”
“And one day I asked one of those old guys why he cared. And he told me that he didn’t really care, exactly, but an old man had given him hell when he was young and kept on giving him hell. When he had finally figured things out, that old man was proud of him.”
“So that’s one thing I know for sure -- an old man listened to me, because an old man listened to him, and I guess on as far back as there’s been old men. And so, I’m listening to you. And yeah, I’m blunt and you think I’m giving you hell.”
“Another thing I know at age 65 that you can’t see at age 40. When I look back at my path, and all the twists and turns and things going wrong -- just like you’re describing -- I now see that my intended path didn’t work out because an obstacle stopped me from going where I intended. But now I can see my intended path would have led to absolute disaster. I had a plan, and God sent an angel to block my plan. God’s plan was much better than mine. Have faith and pray. And take another look -- there’s angels all around us.” n
