Lexington Life Magazine - March 23'

Pastor Rocky Purvis

Northside Baptist Church

www.northsidebaptist.org

803.520.5660

Pretend for just a moment that you get a call from the bank with some unbelievable news. An anonymous donor has decided to deposit 86,400 pennies into your bank account every morning. Now that may not sound like a lot but that’s $864 dollars a day, 365 days a year. That equals almost $315,000 a year. But there’s one stipulation. You have to spend all the money that day. You can’t leave any in your account. What you don’t spend, you lose.

Now let’s get serious. Every morning God deposits 86,000 seconds of time into your account, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, fifty-two weeks a year. You can’t carry any of it over until the next day. What you don’t use, you lose.

That’s why Paul gave us these words in Ephesians 5:15-16, “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So how can we make the most of our time?

The first thing to do is Treat every day as a gift. It could be your last. Solomon told us in Ecclesiastes to “Relish life…Each and every day…Each day is God’s gift… Make the most of each one!” Life is too short to be depressed, discouraged, defeated, angry, sad, or you name. Bad things happen but you can learn to get over it with God’s help and move on enjoying the life God has given us.

Next, Invest your time. Don’t just spend it. Acts 13:36 says, “David served God’s purposes in his own time, and then he died.” David lived his life for a greater purpose than the temporal things of this world. Don’t come to the end of your life only to discover you’ve wasted it on unimportant or lesser important things. Make your life count.

Third, manage your time wisely. Develop a schedule. Solomon, the wisest man to ever live said, “Plan carefully what you do, and whatever you do will turn out right.” Remember, mismanaged time is managed by someone else.

And finally, Expect interruptions. Remain flexible. The person whose schedule is inflexible will never be prepared for those “once in a lifetime opportunities” that come to those who are prepared to be interrupted.

Are you making the most of your time? If not, begin today!

Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 am Life Groups: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 am 4347 Sunset Blvd, Lexington, SC 29072

Recently, I saw a Facebook post that Cub Scout Pack 111 in Little Mountain was holding their Pinewood Derby Race. Afterwards, there would be an open race with a $20 entry fee and $250 prize for the winner.

I still have all my pinewood derby cars that I made to race as a Cub Scout and cars I worked on with my kids.

Donna rolled her eyes when I told her she would be accompanying me to Little Mountain in two days to watch “history in the making.” My 15 year old Noah informed me that I was a “big geek” and he was sleeping in and unable to attend.

The memories came flooding back as I attempted to update the 40 year old wheels with newer less rusted nails. The new nails were a bit smaller than the old ones and easily slipped off, but I didn’t have much time to get the cars ready and weigh-in qualifications were in 30 minutes.

We got there early and watched the scouts run their cars over and over as we bid on silent auction items and ate cookies and chicken bog. We met new friends who were there to watch and support their neighbors. It was a blast!

Soon it was time for open racing! Watching my car zoom down the track for the first time in over forty years was exhilarating. Watching the wheels shoot off my car was embarrassing. However, it was the first time all day any car had issues finishing the race. The scouts were amazed that an “adult’s” car malfunctioned and scrambled to track down and return the stray wheel to me. I grinned and laughed. At that moment, it was just what I needed.

Thanks to Little Mountain Pack 111 for an enjoyable afternoon and wonderful event. See you next year!

Todd Shevchik

COLUMNS

by Mary Ann Hutcheson

Albert (Al) Leval Daniels

April 25, 1947 - November 25, 2022

On Saturday, March 11, 2023, baseball season’s opening day, the American flag will be raised at the Lexington ballpark and Taps will be played in recognition of Al Daniels. “He was a stickler about the flag,” Tommy Frazier remarks. Daniels believed that the sun never goes down on the American flag; it is always down before nightfall, unless the flagpole holds a light. “A light has been added there now, so the flag will go up on March 11, 2023, and it will never come down again,” added Frazier.

Albert Leval Daniels, known to his friends and family as Al, passed away on November 25, 2022. Al was the embodiment of the expression, “Live life to its fullest.” He was known to many Lexington residents for his dedication to Dixie Youth Baseball, where he served as baseball commissioner. Al was at every game or tournament, often seen driving his golf cart to make sure that both players and parents were well taken care of. He did it because he loved it. His good friend, Tommy Frazier said, “He was a true-blue military man; he bled red, white and blue. It was God, country, family. He loved his two sons, and his grandchildren had a special place in his heart. Al even used his grandchildren’s first name initials for a baseball team he sponsored.”

Describing his friend is easy for Frazier. “He was like an old pair of shoes; he was that comfortable to be around. Reliable as anybody you could ever know. Al was someone who didn’t know how to say no. He volunteered his time out at the ball park for the kids. And when we built the baseball stadium across the street, he just dove right into the middle of it with me on that,” Frazier said. The two friends became acquainted in 2012 when Al came out to the ballpark and talked about his two boys who he had coached there years ago. At the annual league members meeting, he said he’d like to get back involved in coaching, was voted onto the board, and ended up staying.

Al Daniels was one of a kind, someone whose life affected so many others for the better. A leader who was devoted to his family, his friends and his ball players, he also carried a strong allegiance to his country. Condolences to his wife, Linda Daniels, his family and his loved ones such as Tommy Frazier, who knew his friend well enough to speak with his heart. n

by Marilyn Thomas

America’s Natio Pastime

On city streets and alleys, in grassy backyards and on neighborhood sandlots, millions of kids have engaged in the American Pastime of baseball with the dream of playing in the big leagues. If you weren’t fortunate enough to play on a community or school baseball team at some point in your life, you were exposed to baseball in some capacity. Many have worked behind the scenes in concession stands or served water in the dugouts, listened to a game on the radio or watched on television, cheered from the sidelines, cleaned team uniforms, or collected cards, stamps and other interesting memorabilia. Baseball is one of the few multi-generational games that invites individuals of all ages and backgrounds to grab a bat and take a swing!

Blowfish Baseball

March is the beginning of the season, and The Blowfish are at the forefront of Lexington County baseball action. Although the Blowfish originally played for the city of Columbia for about nine years, in 2014 they relocated to Lexington and

were soon maxing out the newly constructed $3-million Lexington County Baseball Stadium on Ballpark Road. With a seating capacity of more than 2,500, the stadium was designed with baseball enthusiasts in mind to promote a satisfying experience for the spectators.

“The Blowfish begin their eighteenth season in 2023,” says Bill Shanahan, co-owner (along with wife, Vicki) of Shanahan & Company Sports Management, the parent organization of the Lexington County Blowfish Baseball Club. “The Lexington County Blowfish are a summer collegiate team in the Coastal Plain League [CPL],” explains Mr. Shanahan, and the team has won the title of CPL Organization of the Year three different years, including 2022.

“Our players come from the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, Clemson Tigers, College of Charleston, and other colleges and universities from across the nation,” he says. “In addition, many of our players attended local high schools like Lexington High, River Bluff, Dutch Fork, Gilbert, and many others.”

“We will be continuing our commitment to promote the towns and cities in

Lexington County,” says Mr. Shanahan, “as this will be the third year in a row that the player jerseys will have an emblem proudly representing each community.” As in previous years, these one-of-a-kind jerseys will be auctioned off, and the proceeds are then donated to selected charitable organizations within the community. As they have in the past, the Blowfish will also sponsor a “plethora” of exciting promotions throughout the summer for the fans. “Our season theme is ‘An All-Star Summer in Lexington County,’” says Mr. Shanahan, “as the Blowfish will be hosting the 2023 CPL All-Star Game, Wednesday, July 19.” The Blowfish will continue to provide wholesome family fun and entertainment at an affordable price,” says Mr. Shanahan. The 2023 game schedule is posted online along with ticket sales and special event details.

D-BAT

For those who take a more hands-on approach to the game, baseball training facilities such as D-BAT provide specialized instruction. This company was founded in 2019 by Dave Medeiros and Al Michalowski, both lifelong baseball players and

onal

Whether you are considering joining a neighborhood adult team, a community recreational team or have a child desiring to play amateur or professional baseball, there are many local resources, networks and facilities in Lexington County to help you along the journey.

LEXINGTON COUNTY BASEBALL STADIUM

474 Ballpark Road Lexington, SC (803) 254-3474

GoBlowfishbaseball.com

D-BAT COLUMBIA 4350 St. Andrews Road Columbia, SC (803) 756-3228

www.dbatcolumbia.com

P27 PERFORMANCE CENTER 5347 Sunset Boulevard Lexington, SC (803) 360-1517

www.p27baseballacademy.com

PALMETTO CARDS

404 West Main Street Lexington, SC (803) 399-1208

palmettocards.com

LEXINGTON DIXIE YOUTH BASEBALL 501 Ballpark Rd., Lexington board@myldyb.net 803-359-0825

Lexingtondixiebaseball.com

friends who met while attending Coastal Carolina University. Mr. Medeiros discovered the opportunity of founding a D-BAT training facility franchise when he visited their website to order his son a baseball bat. “We believed it would be more than a business investment, but something great for the community,” he says.

The name of “D-BAT” is an acronym for Developing Beliefs, Attitudes, and Traditions. “This is what we stand for,” says Mr.

lexingtonlife.com

Medeiros. “We established ourselves as a resource for this community—a resource that can be trusted and relied upon for our ath letes. We offer many different services to our players and parents,” he explains. Although not required, “We are a membership-based facility, offering lessons, individual and team cage rentals, camps, clinics, and automated pitching machines. We have a fully stocked Pro Shop and have recently become official Rawlings and Easton distributors of both

LEXINGTON COUNTY RECREATION & AGING COMMISSION An Affiliate of Dixie Youth Baseball, boys and girls ages 4-18 563 South Lake Dr., Lexington info@lcrac.com 803-359-4048

equipment and uniforms. Kids can also celebrate their birthdays with a party at our facility.”

Players of any ability level who are seeking to improve their baseball or softball skills would be challenged through D-BAT’s coaching. “We cater to kids playing rec ball, travel ball, high school, college, and even professional baseball,” says Mr. Medeiros. Because they “recognize that everyone’s goals are different,” the staff of instructors, who specialize in “all aspects of developing a player’s skill set,” is “committed to helping athletes reach their goals.”

“What makes us feel successful and an asset to the community is seeing the progression of all the kids that come into D-BAT to train, take lessons, participate in clinics, and work on their own,” says Mr. Medeiros. “So many of our kids are making all-star teams, making high school teams, and signing with colleges. Watching players develop as they lean on us for direction is a wonderful thing to witness,” he concludes. “Seeing smiles and the jubilation on a kid’s face when they accomplish something for the first time is infectious, pure joy, and so worth the time, money, and effort spent!”

P27 Baseball Academy

Specifically for advanced players, “P27 Baseball Academy is an elite training academy for high school and post-grad students to perfect their skill with premier training and coaching, gain exposure through our competitive game schedule, achieve academic success, and grow through mentorship plus discipleship,” says Corey Warner, company founder and head coach.

“P27 attracts players from all over the country and world,” says Mr. Warner. “With on-campus living and an unmatched baseball training program, athletes develop an experience to hone their skills at the highest level possible on and off the field.” Last year, for example, Logan Wagner was the first Blacksmith to be selected in the eighth round of the Major League Baseball draft pick.

Mr. Warner is a Lexington native who played for the White Knoll Timberwolves before advancing to college ball where he won three consecutive national championships as well as the World Series MVP in 2012. “Corey gained his personal training certification after college and spent years coaching baseball for all age groups in the community,” says Tina Owens, P27’s director of player support. “After years of dream-

ing and prayer, Corey opened P27 Baseball Academy in 2018.”

Ms. Owens explains that the “P27 Blacksmiths” derives the name from Proverbs 27:17, which states: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” She adds, “Not only do we care about training and developing the baseball skills of our players, but we care about the young man as a whole. We want to develop his character through mentorship and discipleship.” To that end, “We teach our young men about service in the community and life after baseball,” she says. During the off-season months, the P27 Blacksmiths have volunteered for programs such as The Scooter Scott Project and Ollie’s Warriors. “The guys really enjoy the opportunity to serve in the community!” says Ms. Owens. “We hope it will be something they will continue to do after they are older and back in their own communities.”

Baseball Card Collecting

Did you collect baseball cards as a kid? Have you ever witnessed an avid adult collector get excited showing his favorite or most rare cards? According to a recent study, the sports trading card market is expected to hit $98.75 billion by year 2027. Baseball cards have been around since the 1880s and, as people tire of digital entertainment they are going back to nostalgic, more interactive hands-on activities. Some of us have been lucky enough to receive cards that have been passed down from generation to generation, and carry on the tradition of gifting/trading cards on special occasions. If you are returning to card collecting as an adult, know that the game has changed since then. Long ago it was easy to get inexpensive sports cards from convenience stores; today prime brands are almost impossible to find in retail stores. Most of your shopping will be online through manufacturer’s websites, dedicated online card retailers or secondary markets like Ebay.

For those who enjoy collecting cards and other baseball memorabilia, Palmetto Cards in downtown Lexington is a destination to explore. “Our store is a one-stop shop for collectors,” says Aaron Cordero, the establishment’s proprietor. “We can take care of all trading card needs. We sell individual cards in raw or graded condition. Raw is a term within the hobby for ‘not graded.’ We also sell unopened boxes and packs of various brands as well as some memorabilia.” n

Academics and Career Skills Join Forces

Over the past century there has been a gradual disconnect in traditional education and basic, practical labor skills. Competency and creativity have been smothered by cookie cutter programs, rigorous standardized testing and rote memorization. A large portion of college students have never witnessed their father changing a car’s tire or oil, their mother preparing a 4-course meal or an aunt repairing dad’s shirt with a sewing machine. There is unique value, honor and respect contained within skilled, manual labor work, along with self-esteem, pride and confidence. Unfortunately, many students arrive at their senior year of college before realizing that there is a creative outlet that makes use of the material intelligence or “book smarts” they acquired in class.

by Linnette Rochelle

Lexington Technology Center

Lexington Technology Center’s core belief is that “students are best prepared for the workforce when they combine rigorous academic core content with challenging (hands on) Career & Technical Education courses and skill work.” The center is the key to a head start on life and a pathway to the future. This program allows students to tailor their education during the high school years to align with careers they are interested in pursuing. Students are encouraged to take the most demanding core academic courses possible in high school and then fuse that knowledge with career courses at the Lexington Technology Center (LTC).

Located on the campus of Lexington High School, LTC serves Lexington County School District 1 and “strives to empower students with skills they need to build the community through career preparation with a focus on character, creativity, and craftmanship.” (LTC Director Bryce Myers). Founded in 1973, LTC opened for the 1974/1975 school term. Students of Gilbert, Lexington, Pelion, River Bluff, and White Knoll have the opportunity of utilizing this valuable resource and the center is looking to expand programs with the district’s middle schools in the near future. LTC currently provides high schoolers with 32 career pathways within 16 career clusters.

“I’m super proud that 34.4% of Lexington County School District One 2022 graduates completed a Career and Technical Education (CTE) sequence in our district,” remarks Director Myers. “We also had 2,521 certifications; some students obtained multiple certifications.” Director Myers went on to state that students who complete a CTE program have a 98.5% high school graduation rate. According to Director Myers, LTC’s goal is to prepare their students well for making a difference in their communities or spheres of influence – whether local, national, or global. He identified three key components which LTC considers vital to career preparation: 1) character –soft skills or power skills, 2) creativity in problem solving and developing critical thinking skills, 3) and craftsmanship for which LTC is known.

Some of the career pathways available at LTC are:

Agricultural science

Architecture

Automotive collision repair

& technology

Building construction

Business, Marketing, Finances & Management

Computer science & IT

Cosmetology

Culinary arts

Cyber security

Digital art and design

Electricity

Firefighting

Health science

Law enforcement services

Machine and power equipment

technology

Nursing assistant

STEM (Science, technology, engineering & math)

Welding and many, many more.

According to the 2018 Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, LTC is required to complete a diagnostic report called the Comprehensive Learning Needs Assessment (CLNA). Director Myers said, “The CLNA shows the needs of our local business and industry partners and then requires us to make sure we are taking steps to meet those needs both in program implementation and where our funds are dedicated.” He is passionate about doing just that, stating that LTC’s vision is to empower students with skills so they can make a positive impact on their communities.

As part of LTC’s career preparation, dual enrollment partnerships are available. They are currently working to increase dual enrollment opportunities through University of South Carolina (USC) and Midland’s Technical College (MTC). Many of LTC’s career pathways are streamlined for business and industry within the community and beyond. Offering specialized courses in Career and Technical Education (CTE) as previously stated, LTC also offers Advanced STEM Studies, honors level and advanced placement (AP) level coursework, and cooperative education (Co-op). Co-op includes job shadowing, internships and apprenticeships. Some of LTC’s partnerships include the military, the Michelin Scholar Program, and the Boeing Education Program. Director Myers states that they need more apprenticeships and continue to seek partnerships with local businesses.

Former student, Christopher Mullin, graduated from Lexington High School in 2013, having been inducted into the National Technical Honor Society at LTC his senior year. His experience at LTC allowed him to explore various interests such as construction building, graphic design, and architecture. After job-shadowing an architect for a day, he realized there was more paper pushing than he was willing to do. Interested in some form of engineering, he began looking at programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering fields. He learned about the Michelin Scholar Program from a fellow LTC student and decided to take their exam for entrance into the program. Passing the exam, he entered

Midland’s Technical College (MTC) for electrical engineering as a Michelin Tech Scholar. Earning his associates degree in electrical engineering from MTC, Christopher went on to be hired by Michelin and is now celebrating more than five years, working as a reliability technician – troubleshooting problems with the machinery and looking into solutions to modify and improve the process.

Regarding his experience, Christopher said, “Lexington Tech Center commits a lot of time to helping students work toward their future careers. I am thankful for the part they played in introducing me to the Tech Scholar program at Michelin. This opportunity provided me with a free education and a job through college where I was prepared for my career in industrial maintenance.” Not only does Lexington Technology Center provide great partnerships like this one with Michelin, it also provides students with opportunities to build leadership skills through participation in organizations such as Future Business Leaders of America, Future Farmers of America, DECA International Association of Marketing Students, HOSA Future Health Professionals, and SkillsUSA.

Lexington Technology Center

2421 Augusta Hwy, Lexington Lexington1.net 803-821-3000

LTCSM@lexington1.net

Business Partnering: bmyers@lexington1.net

93% of students who participate in CTE programs graduate highschool

91% of CTE students who earned 2-3 CTE credits enrolled in college

2% wage increase for each year students took a CTE course

For nearly five decades, Lexington Technology Center has made a tremendous impact on thousands of students like Christopher. It continues to grow and change with time, development, and technology to meet the needs of students and the community in the 21st century. LTC is a leader in education and has been recognized locally, statewide, and nationally as a School of Excellence, receiving the Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School Award and Palmetto Gold Award. LTC faculty and staff are recognized regularly for their outstanding performance and dedication in supporting the students in obtaining specific and versatile life and career skills. Also, LTC students consistently win district, state, and national recognition for excelling in the skills and knowledge they learn. Stay tuned for upcoming news of their 50th anniversary celebration in 2024/2025. n

Abigail Grace Burnett

Rachael Cecile Davis

Kaitlyn Anna DeCarlis

Alaina Renae DuBois

Sydney MaryGrace Duke

Caroline Grace Goff

Chloe Elizabeth Grigsby

Elliotte Kate Gunter

Kayla Makenzie Hall

Ellie Catherine Harman

Abigail Claire Blackwell

Ava Michelle Brown

Sally Grace Bumgarner

Chloe Elaine Carpenter

Murray McCants Cromer

Emery Ashton Crow

Evelyn Janice Davidson

Caroline Elizabeth Davis

Sherina Dsouza

Wesley Jacob Duckett

Whitley Bren Enlow

Luca Caleb Feraci

Sarah Lina Gardner

McKinley Jewell Berry

Josselyn Borbonio Del Valle

Abigail Mae Hoover

George

Grant Thomas Goldsmith

Braden Anthony Guliano

Emily Grace Harrell

Dani Hu

London Olivia Hughes

Daniel Ervin Hunt

Rajit Sen Jain

Leanna Tongyoon Kim

Mia Grace Kutyla

Seungho Lee

Fernanda Lewandowski

Lemos

Anthony Phan Luong

Gilbert High School Lexington High School Pelion High School

Emma Leigh Grace Jackson

Jessica Marie Johnson

Laura Lynn Keck

Caroline Makenna Lang

Emmie Ruth Peck

John David Peck

Sara Catherine Reed

Savannah Kaley Shirley

Conner Allen Shumpert

Ellanora Grace Smith

Makynzi Teresa Claire

Sprague

Hampton Paul Stutts

Cayce Susan McNabb

Dylan Thomas Meetze

Elizabeth Laurel Mills

Wyatt Neeley O'Cain

Olivia Grace O'Neal

Kaylee Breanne Painter

Ryon Vinay Peddapalli

Virginia Bryce Powers

Elena Mercedes Ramis

Reese Alyxandria Robinette

Sophia Corrinne Marlan Rodriguez

Alexis Elizabeth Schilit

Jacob Aaron Schrodt

Garrett Tyler Oliver

Savannah Spring Poole

Stacy Ann Puckett

Brian Thomas Shumpert

Rachel Parker Sellers

Abigail Jaye Stabler

Halie Myranda Stoertz

Carlee Elizabeth

Tworzyanski

Ashlyn Claudette Velte

Hannah Elizabeth Webster

Anna Faith Wehr

Kaycie Anne Wellman

Ryan Jacobsen Weston

Alana Nicole White

Lucile Elizabeth Wiggins

Charles Edward Winston

Scott Edward Woodyard

McKenzie Leigh Sightler

Kira Kay Simpson

Olivia Janice Christine Tanchak

To make a gift or learn more about the Lexington One Educational Foundation: w www.Lex1EdFound.org.

Amanda Brooke Allen

Karson Mackenna Henzler

Savanna Grace Floyd

Elaina Brogan Smith

Ciara Lauren Alderman

Kennedy Brandreth Darien

Lucy Jenkins Mackie

Abigail Mary Scruggs

Gabriela Mylan Balleza

Catherine Baxley Alexander

Casey Isabella Anderson

Faith Olivia Andrews

Tess Elizabeth Arnold

Abigail Melain Arsenault

Allison Malone Atkinson

Payton Avery Berry

Zulal B. Cakir

Larissa Nossar Carrilho

Carson Rutland Cordero

Isabella Cuthbertson

Alexander Eduard Daichendt

Sri Ashrith Duggirala

River Bluff High School

Anna Kathryn Gaffney

Emma Katherine Geary

Kristen Michele Hallman

Elizabeth Renae Henke

Jessica Marie James

Ansley Rayne Jansen

Lindsay Cathryn Johnson

Arya Korrapati

Hayeon Lee

Jackson Wyatt Lohr

Jacob Anthony Lotter

Lana Lee Maas

Savannah Caroline Manning

Kristy Le Jiao Maron

Roshni Muruganandam

Sai Varun Reddy Nallu

Sriya Pallapothu

Sarina Yogeshkumar Patel

Natalie Kathryn Pfister

Ava Lane Reeves

Makayla Arianna Richmond

Hayden Elizabeth Roberts

Margaret Simpson Roddey

Madeline Kate Roquemore

Christopher Brooks Sample

Chloe Elizabeth Shoultz

White Knoll High School

Aliza Grace Allison

John Paton Bernard

Caroline Amelia Byler

Makayla Abriana Campbell

Hailey Danielle Carnagey

Emely Daisy Castillo

Chastity Hannah Chisolm

Hailey Elizabeth Crider

Aiden Cooper Crumpton

Kendall Reese Douga

Hannah Marie Einbecker

Abagail Marie Gates

Joshua Ryan Groscost

Alyssa Raynie Gunter

Carlos Aldahir Guzman

Noah Lucas Howard

Derek Thomas Jacobs

Ella Riley Johnsen

Logan Daniel Klotz

Stephen Tucker Knight

George Taylor Lane

Kaytlin Joy Lathigee

Anna Marie Lee

Kayla Elaine Mathis

Skylar Makayla Morgan

Mitchum

Andrew Clifton Mixon

Jessica Neri-Nunez

Makayla Nicole Panter

Gunja Kartik Patel

Kaylee Elizabeth Peele

Kios Marquis Perrin

Jaime Lynn Pritchard

Hannah Grace Yanxia

Queen

Adilenne Reyes

Sara Nicole Smith

Lauren Elisabeth Suthard

Brianna Marie Talton

Samantha Riley Tan

Jane Katherine Taylor

Tyler Nikolas Thoroughman

Alexandra Leighanne Vance

Erika Kate Violette

Elizabeth Britton Welsh

Charlotte Russell Wiman

David Lee Wiman

Andrew Tyler Witt

Justin Reynoso-Ramirez

Carolyna Joye Roscoe

Ruby Taylor Shaw

Elijah James Skinner

Victoria Ruth Vanlue

Lisandro Alonso Vides

Morales

Nathaniel Dean West

Amanda Nicole Yarsinske

Riley Edward Yates

Yokheved Hadassah

Zimmerman

Many THANKS to our Lead Event Sponsors for the 2023 Celebrations!

DIAMOND SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

Lexington One Educational Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (Tax ID 57 -1025465) serving as a source of growth and support for Lexington County School District One. Through gifts from our many terrific partners, we plant seeds in Lexington One that bloom into amazing educational opportunities for our students! Contact us to learn how your gift can

by Marcy Roberts

What are the Health Benefits of Ginger?

We are all familiar with the use of ginger in the kitchen, but did you know that this spice, related to turmeric and cardamom, has many health benefits?

Ginger was used as medicine in ancient China, Rome, India, and Greece, specifically the rhizome (root) of the plant. Whilst we may be tempted to think of it as a folk remedy for this reason, it is difficult to ignore its potential for fighting disease and for general health.

Warms the body and helps alleviate symptoms of the common cold

This is the benefit most of us associate with ginger. Prepared in hot tea, ginger can alleviate the effects of a cold and warm you up. The reason ginger helps to warm the body is that it is a diaphoretic, which means it warms the body internally and it aids perspiration. The spice is ideal in a warm drink on a cold day.

Helps to soothe nausea and morning sickness

Ginger has been reported to alleviate mild nausea and help soothe the symptoms of morning sickness in pregnant women. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that it can help vomiting, cold sweats, and dizziness. However, pregnant women are advised to consult a doctor before using ginger for their morning sickness.

Can relieve pain

Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis have reported that when they regularly consume ginger root their

conditions are eased. One reason for this may be the presence of gingerol, which is contained in volatile oils found in ginger root. Gingerol has anti-inflammatory properties, among which is the suppression of cytokines. Cytokines are the messenger molecules within the immune system which promote an inflammatory response.

Helps promote a healthy digestive system

Ginger root is a carminative. This means that it promotes gas release. This is important for the digestive system as excessive, trapped gas can lead to digestive issues such as pain and discomfort. Ginger root can be used to help treat colic and dyspepsia.

Some other potential health benefits

There is some evidence that ginger can be used as a topical skin treatment to soothe burns and aid circulation. It may have other properties too such as anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties. However, a lot more research is needed into these areas.

The lowdown

The medicinal use of ginger root has a long history, stretching back over millennia, but modern medical science is only just starting to research its benefits. You should always consult a medical professional before using ginger supplements for health reasons. n

pickleballed

Pickleball’s

Future in Lexington County

by Warren McInnis Hughes

pickleball is not only easy to learn and fun, but you also meet the friendliest people. Although pickleball is basically simple, you can make it as energetic and challenging as you want. It can provide a great workout,” he added.

Pickleball, once a passing curiosity for Lexington County resident Steve Livingston, has now become a favorite pastime, making him a major promoter, sponsor and player of the trending sport. In February, Livingston, a philanthropic Irmo businessman, organized a successful pickleball tournament in Lexington for veterans and first responders at Barr Road Sports Complex, one of several pickleball facilities built by Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission.

As Livingston explains, his interest in pickleball was sparked when he and his wife, Sylvia, as frequent RV travelers, noticed the activity generated by enthusiastic pickleball players at campgrounds. One morning, while on one of their trips, he decided to investigate what drew participants to the game. He instantly became attracted to the friendly and lively competition and began playing. Now, an enthusiastic “pickleballer,” he has a wide network of other players as friends. In fact, the camaraderie is a chief aspect of why the sport is so appealing, he says. “I quickly discovered

Arriving back home after his pickleball discovery, Livingston focused on opportunities to play locally. The sport’s popularity in Lexington reflects a growth occurring across the country in recent years, especially during the pandemic when people were drawn to outdoor sports. In 2022, the Sports and Fitness Industry Association reported pickleball participation had grown by almost 40 percent, making it the fastest growing sport in the country. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, racquetball and table tennis, now has some five million players. The USA Pickleball Association is the national governing body for the sport and provides players with official rules, tournaments, rankings and promotional materials. There are nearly 10,000 pickleball locations nationwide.

sports: the sports are similar in nature by using a racquet or paddle to hit a ball over a net into a designated area. However, the pickleball court is smaller in size, only 20 feet by 44 feet, whereas the tennis court is 36 feet by 78 feet long. With a considerable size difference, the ball moves much faster in tennis than in pickleball, requiring a bigger court. Tennis requires more movement since the court is bigger, but pickleball also

As director of tennis and pickleball operations for the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission, Brian Clary says he has witnessed the dramatic increase in the sport’s participation and growth. He coaches pickleball and tennis and has a certified professional coaching certificate with the Professional Pickleball Registry and an Elite Professional certification with the US Professional Tennis Association. Clary explains the similarities between the two

requires quick reactions to cover a shorter area. Pickleball can be played at all levels of skill, from basic movements at the beginner level to quicker bursts of movement and faster hands at higher levels.

Opportunities to play pickleball in Lexington have expanded rapidly, he says. “We’ve added lesson programs, open play nights, ladder play, tournaments, kids activities and summer camps.” Courts have been added at the Lexington County

“Although pickleball is basically simple, you can make it as energetic and challenging as you want. It can provide a great workout”

pickleballed

Tennis Complex and the Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center and more are planned elsewhere. If you want to start playing, Clary says. “Reach out to us at LCTC or at Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center and any of our six certified professionals can help you get started.” As for Livingston, he enjoys the courts available locally as well as those he discovers through excursions when back on the road. In fact, pickleball play has become a major feature of his travels. He says he stays in touch with pickleball friends he has met on the road.

Fellow player Pat Truesdale of Camden is an official USA Pickleball Association District Ambassador, representing the East SC region. “Pickleball appeals to all age and skill levels, because everybody can participate and enjoy it,” she says. Since 2016, the dedicated ambassador has introduced countless players to the game, from youngsters to seniors. Like Livingston, she too values the travel opportunities with plans to set off for Turks and Caicos for a pickleball event later this year. USA Pickle ambassadors are volunteers who promote the sport and USA Pickleball in the local areas they represent. Edwin Gerace and JoAnn Norelius are Lexington County USA Pickleball Ambassadors and Carlos Annrich and Marion Keller are ambassadors for Richland County. There are more than 40 ambassadors in South Carolina.

As dedicated players like Livingston, Truesdale and others quickly discover, pickleball is a social sport that instantly connects you to other enthusiastic players, not to mention providing considerable health benefits. It boosts mood, lowers blood pressure, builds confidence, burns calories, builds fitness, improves balance and enhances agility, according to Pickleball, the official magazine of the USA Pickleball Association. The popular pastime began back in 1965 when three men developed a diversion for their children. There was a

Barr

Cayce

Get Out There!

Seven Oaks Park

Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission

200 Leisure Lane

Harbison Community Center

106 Hillpine Road

Quail Valley Swim & Racquet Club

1336 Country Squire Dr.

Riverland Hills Baptist Church

201 Lake Murray Blvd.

Timberlake Country Club

222 Timberlake Dr.

Resources: USApickleball.org | Pickleheads.com 24hourpickleball.com

badminton court but no equipment, so the fathers improvised and started playing with ping-pong paddles and a plastic ball. Legend claims the sport got its name because it resembles the mishmash of what crew teams call the “pickle boat,” a crew made up of leftovers from all the other boats.

In 1972, a corporation was formed to protect the creation of the sport. The United States Amateur Pickleball Association, now the USA Pickleball Association, was organized to promote pickleball on a national level. The first rulebook was also published. By 1990, pickleball was being played in all 50 states. In 2005, a new corporation for the sport was established as USA Pickleball Association (USAPA). In 2021, USA Pickleball Membership reached the 50,000 milestone and ended the year with just over 53,000 members, a 43% percent from the previous year and the largest single growth year to date for the organization. The USA Pickleball Association reports it is one of the fastest-growing sports ever, particularly among older tennis players who find themselves happy not to have to cover the larger court. The sport is set to continue its exponential growth. Its expansion is attributed to its popularity at fitness centers, physical education classes, resorts and retirement communities. It is also growing worldwide with many new international clubs forming and national governing bodies now established on multiple continents.

Thanks to the internet and social media, pickleball fans can access an abundance of websites, apps, blogs and forums for engagement. South Carolina native Brandon

Mackie, now based in California, has developed a website, pickleheads.com, which is a great source for locating pickleball facilities locally and nationwide. “Pickleball is fun, social, easy to learn, and can be enjoyed by players of all ages,” he says. South Carolina ranks 23rd nationally in the number of pickleball courts available, according to his website. The platform also helps players find courts, organize sessions, and connect with local players. “Our site covers all things pickleball and we’ve been watching the sport grow like crazy in Lexington,” he says.

With Lexington’s standing as one of the fastest growing areas in the region it’s no surprise that it will be the home of the state’s first 24-Hour Pickleball complex set to open this summer. Located on Augusta Highway near Lizard’s Thicket, the development will feature 12 pickleball courts, eight indoors and four outdoors. Planned as a members-only club that will host tournament and league play, it will also have certified coaches. More 24-Pickleball sites throughout South Carolina and the Southeast are already in the works. n

“We’ve added lesson programs, open play nights, ladder play, and tournaments and also include kids’ activities and camps.”

CHRIS

AWalk In Winter Woods

by Tom Poland

I like boardwalks. Those that take you through protected natural areas. Several come to mind. The lovely boardwalk at Woods Bay takes you 1,150 feet through a cypress-tupelo swamp. Edisto Gardens’ 2,600-foot boardwalk also takes you through a cypress-tupelo swamp while flirting with the Edisto River of redbreast fame. My favorite is the 2.6-mile boardwalk at Congaree National Park.

You can walk Congaree’s trail of sturdy posts and planks in 60 to 80 minutes. Why hurry? Take your time. You’ll walk something rare—North America’s largest remaining tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest. You’ll see American beech trees, bald cypress, and water tupelo. You’ll crane your neck. What a tall canopy. Don’t miss the ruins of an old moonshine still. See redhead woodpeckers, deer, and myriad bird species. See rich brown muck, switchcane, and cypress knees standing like meerkats on alert. And fellow humans.

What struck me on this cold sunny day were the numerous visitors from across the United States. When you go to these woods note the license plates in the parking lot. I spent a few minutes talking with a young couple from California. They intend to move to South Carolina. Curious, I asked why. “We have five children aged 2 to 10. We don’t want them to grow up in California.” Make of it what you will, but it seems they’re escaping change. Had a ghost stood nearby, his hat askew, he could have told them how change threatened Congaree Swamp as it was known but trees can’t move. You move people to protect them. That is, help them feel and see the need to preserve our remaining unique nature areas.

Harry R.E. Hampton (July 8, 1897-1980) did just that. He set out to save what remained of a green cathedral. In the 1890s, loggers felled some bald cypress monarchs whose water-soaked logs sunk in revenge rather than float downriver to sawmills. The oft-flooded swamp, too spongy for road building caused frustrated loggers to abandon operations. Only nature has touched Congaree since.

Nature set what would be the country’s 57th national park and South Carolina’s first along the Congaree River’s north bank some 20 miles southeast of Columbia. There, the interplay of sunlight, minerals, and water sustains a 22,200-acre biome—the country’s largest contiguous tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest. It’s a must see, a bucket list item.

Jim Goller is the executive director of the Harry Hampton Wildlife Fund. When asked about the Fund and why it’s named for Harry, he tells people, “The HWF was formed in 1981, not long after Harry’s death in 1980. I consider Harry Hampton one of South Carolina’s first true conservationists.”

Indeed, he is. Hampton grew up in Columbia and Charleston when state governing of wildlife consisted only of rudimentary law enforcement. As a youth, Hampton explored, hunted, and fished a then-undeveloped South Carolina.

When he was a news reporter for The State newspaper, Hamp-

ton’s conservation interests culminated in 1931 with a massive publicity campaign to organize a game and fish association, instigate natural resources legislation, and form a state game commission. The resulting association later became the South Carolina Wildlife Federation.

While he was Federation president, Hampton’s constant hounding of the legislature influenced game and fish laws as well as the formation of the State Wildlife Department and Commission in 1952. Ultimately it evolved into the S.C. Department of Natural Resources. A visionary, Hampton’s 20-year battle to preserve the Congaree River bottom ended in success with the Congaree’s establishment as a National Natural Monument in October 18, 1976. Significant Designations kept coming: International Biosphere Reserve—June 30, 1983. Wilderness—October 24, 1988. Globally Important Bird Area—July 26, 2001, and the crown jewel, National Park—November 10, 2003.

In years to come, I hope the many visitors take a moment to learn about Harry Hampton and the HHWF. As Robert Frost wrote, “Whose woods these are I think I know.”

They’re Harry’s, yours and mine. n

Learn more about Congaree National Park at nps.gov. Learn more about the Harry Hampton Wildlife Fund at harry hamptonwildlifefund.com.

Spring Home Updates on a Budget

by Candace Wilson

Spring is the season of rebirth, renewal, and hope. If you get tired of looking at the same things each day, updating the look of your home when spring arrives can help jumpstart your energy levels and restore your mental equilibrium. Here are some things you can do to update the look of your home for spring without spending a fortune:

Buy New Throw Blankets and Cushions

Nothing on the sofa stays immaculate for long. If the throw blankets and cushions on your living room sofa have seen better days, consider replacing them with new ones. It is easy to find gorgeous throw blankets and scatter cushions in subtle spring colors in brick-and-mortar stores and online. Take your time to find something that tones in beautifully with the décor in your living room.

Treat Yourself to Flowers

A flower arrangement can do a lot to brighten up a room in the spring and summer months. You can pick flowers from your garden, buy a bouquet from a florist, or purchase some artificial cloth flowers that look like the real deal. For best results, choose colors that match what is already in the room where you will be placing them. For instance, a jar of fresh daffodils would look lovely on a table in a kitchen with lemon-colored paint on the walls.

Invest In Plants

Indoor plants can vastly improve the look of any room in your house. Having plants at home will also oxygenate the air and help to improve your mood. If you do not have much of a green thumb, purchase natural plants that are easy to grow rather than the plastic variety. The hardiest of house plants include yuccas, spider plants, snake plants, peace lilies, air plants, cacti, and succulents. Take time to consider young children and pets when deciding which variety to purchase.

Choose Colorful Plant Pots

If you decide to get a few new house plants, why not buy some colorful plant pots to go with them instead of just settling for the plain terracotta-colored variety? When it comes to plant pots, there are many

available choices. For example, you can buy ceramic, plastic, or wooden plant pots. Choose something that aligns with what you already have in your home or get crafty and decorate an existing pot.

Cover a Wall or Two

If you wallpaper every wall in every room of your house, it will cost quite a bit. However, you can cover just one wall for less than you might think. If you want your home to be as fresh as the spring season, think about papering one wall in your living room. If you aren’t sure what would look good, peruse the internet for inspiration. A quick search will show you current decorating trends and color schemes.

When you paint the walls of your home, it doesn’t stay looking fresh forever. If you are sick of the color scheme in your home, buying some new paint will give you the chance to choose a new one. Choose the paint colors you love and that bring you joy, do not just go with what is fashionable or popular.

Purchase Some Art

Paintings and prints can do a lot to update the look of your house for the spring and summer months. You do not have to spend a fortune on a new picture, either. You should only invest in fine art pieces if you can comfortably afford to do so. You can buy less expensive paintings online for as little as $40. If you decide to purchase a print to hang on your wall, try to choose something that fits well with everything else in the room. Doing this will help you to relax at home.

Hang New Window Treatments

Changing the drapes and blinds on the windows can transform any room in your home. Choose floral drapes to give your home a spring-like feel. Drapes with Oriental floral patterns are popular. Sheer drapes can also look particularly elegant. Look around online and at the stores in your local community. You are sure to find drapes and blinds that you adore for functionality and beauty.

Change Your Bed Covering

You may find that investing in a floral quilt or comforter for

your bed updates the look of your bedroom and puts you in a good mood. There are thousands of flowery quilts and comforters online and you may find a wide selection locally. Make sure any floral quilt or comforter you buy does not clash with the paint, flooring, wallpaper, and drapes in your bedroom.

Use Natural Materials

Instead of paying for expensive ornaments or accent pieces for your home, fill it with the natural materials nature provides. When placed around your home strategically, moss, twigs, acorns, pinecones, shells, and pebbles look gorgeous. You can buy natural decorative accent pieces or collect materials while on a nature walk to create unique accent pieces at home.

Has what you have just read inspired you to give your home a fresh, new look for spring? If so, take a look online to find further inspiration; use a favorite piece of furniture or decoration as a starting point for base color or pattern. You are sure to find some ideas you love and use them to make your home look great for spring. n

MARCH/APRIL

Friday, March 10th and Saturday, March 11th Spring Fling

Wingard’s Market, 1403 N. Lake Dr., Lexington

Stock up on all your spring gardening essentials such as shrubs, trees, flowers and decorations galore! See what’s new for 2023!

Hours: Friday, March 10th 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Saturday March 11th 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Visit wingardsmarket.com for more information.

Friday, March 10th – Sunday, March 12th Carolina Classic Home & Garden Show

South Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Turn your dream home into a reality with the finest construction, remodeling, and gardening experts from across the Midlands all at Columbia’s original Home Show! Free admission, $5 parking. Hours: Friday 11:00 a.m.5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Sunday 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. For more information visit homeshowcolumbia.com.

Saturday, March 11th

8th Annual Lexington Shamrock Parade Main Street, Lexington, 2:00 p.m. Bring the whole family to the parade! From

Irish Dancers to trains and live music with ornate floats and a Mountain Dew drinking camel, there is something for everyone!

Saturday, March 18th

St. Pat’s in Five Points

Five Points Columbia, Congaree Ave., Columbia, 10:00 a.m.

Festivities for this event begin with a “Fun Run” at 7:30 a.m., gates open at 10:00 a.m. for the St. Pat’s Parade. Live music from 12:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Visit stpatscolumbia. com for details and tickets.

Saturday March 18th and Sunday, March 19th

Columbia Spring Gun and Knife Show

South Carolina State Fairgrounds, 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia

This event will feature a wide range of modern guns, antique guns, knives, ammo, accessories and more. Admission: adults $8, military $6, 12 yrs. and under are free. Hours: Saturday 9:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. For more information visit fairsandfestivals.net.

Saturday, March 25th

11th Annual It’s All About Herbs Festival

Lexington County Museum, 231 Fox St., Lexington, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

The family-friendly event is free! There will be a wide selection of herbs and gardening related items for sale, bake sale and local vendors. The majority of proceeds will provide scholarship funds to a qualified student from Lexington County.

Thursday, March 30th-Sunday, April 2nd

2023 Tartan Day South Highland Games and Celtic Festival

Historic Columbia Speedway, 2001 Charleston Hwy., Cayce

Tartan Day South honors the Celtic culture and heritage in South Carolina’s Midlands region. The traditions of the United Kingdom – Ireland, Scotland and England are showcased. Proceeds will benefit the nonprofit River Alliance. For tickets and event schedule visit tartandaysouth.com.

Patty’s DayDelights

BRAISED CORNED BEEF BRISKET

1 -5 lb. flat-cut corned beef brisket

1 tbsp. browning sauce or as desired

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

1 onion, sliced

6 cloves garlic, sliced

2 tbsp. water

Preheat oven to 275 degrees F; discard any flavoring packet from corned beef. Brush brisket with browning sauce on both sides. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown brisket on both sides in the hot oil, 5 to 8 minutes per side. Place brisket on a rack set in a roasting pan. Scatter onion and garlic slices over brisket and add water to roasting pan. Cover pan tightly with aluminum foil. Roast in the preheated oven until meat is tender, about 6 hours.

BANGERS AND MASH WITH ONIONS

4 links pork sausage

2 lb. potatoes, peeled and cubed

1/4 c. butter

2 tbsp. milk (Optional)

1 tsp. dry mustard powder

salt and ground black pepper to taste

1 tbsp. butter

2 large onions, chopped

6 c. beef broth

2 c. red wine

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. Cook sausages in a skillet over medium-low heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side; transfer to an oven-safe dish and keep warm in the preheated oven. Place potatoes into a saucepan over medium heat and cover with water; bring to a boil and simmer until potatoes are tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and allow to steam dry for a minute or two. Mix in 1/4 cup of butter, milk, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper, mash until fluffy and smooth. Set aside. Melt 1 table-

spoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions; cook and stir until translucent and just starting to brown, about 8 minutes. Pour in beef broth and red wine; bring to a boil and simmer until reduced to half its volume, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper. Serve sausages with mashed potatoes; pour onion gravy on top.

SAUTEED CABBAGE

2 tsp. butter

1 -15 oz. can chicken broth

1 head cabbage, cored and coarsely chopped

1 pinch salt and ground black pepper

Bring chicken broth and butter to a boil in a large skillet. Reduce heat to low and add cabbage. Cover and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until cabbage is tender and sweet, about 45 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

CHOCOLATE BEER CUPCAKES WITH WHISKEY FILLING AND IRISH CREAM ICING

1 c. Irish stout beer (such as Guinness®)

1 c. butter

3/4 c. unsweetened cocoa powder

2 c. all-purpose flour

2 c. white sugar

1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

3/4 tsp. salt

2 large eggs

2/3 c. sour cream

2/3 c. heavy whipping cream

8 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped

2 tbsp. butter

1 tsp. Irish whiskey, or more to taste

1/2 c. butter, softened

3 c. confectioners’ sugar, or more as needed

3 tbsp. Irish cream liqueur (such as Baileys®), or more to taste

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, line 24 muffin cups with paper liners.Bring Irish stout beer and 1 cup butter to a boil in a saucepan and set aside until butter has melted, stirring occasionally. Mix in cocoa powder until smooth. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a bowl until thoroughly combined. Beat eggs with sour cream in a large bowl with an electric mixer on low until well combined. Slowly beat in beer mixture, then flour mixture; beat until batter is smooth.Divide batter between the prepared cupcake cups, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, about 17 minutes. Cool the cupcakes completely. Cut cores out of the center of each cupcake with a sharp paring knife. Discard cores. Bring cream to a simmer in a saucepan over low heat; stir in bittersweet chocolate until melted. Mix in 2 tablespoons butter and Irish whiskey until butter is melted; let mixture cool to room temperature. Filling will thicken as it cools. Spoon the filling into the cored cupcakes. For frosting: Whip 1/2 cup butter in a bowl with an electric mixer until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes.

Set mixer to low speed and slowly beat in confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, until frosting is smooth and spreadable. Beat in Irish cream liqueur; adjust the thickness of frosting with more confectioners’ sugar if needed.

Spread frosting on filled cupcakes. n

A Truly Sacred Group

I learned something travelling the country. If I got lonesome and wanted to “have some fun” (meaning the best part of fun -- lighthearted, no-regret type of fun), then I go to any-diner-anytime-anywhere and have coffee and talk to a waitress for a few minutes. I ask them how they are doing and what they’ve been doing.

The experienced waitresses appreciate it greatly, and have perfected the art of harmless flirtation that makes interaction fun. They understand I am going to tip them well and that our interaction is part of them making a living. In reality they probably don’t care two cents for any of us but it’s what we all do to get by.

Both sides experience a form of easy

friendship and companionship both sides trust. The girls appreciate someone who doesn’t see them as a servant and a slave. That’s how many -- perhaps most -- people view them, because people in general tend to be arrogant as all hell and always seem to want to have someone “beneath them.” They mistakenly think if they are being served that means they are some kind of plastic royalty.

The waitresses are like anyone else and appreciate being appreciated.

In the course of a little carryin’-on with waitresses I often have a meal or coffee with someone and get to hear some news I didn’t know.

This somewhat explains why visiting

with a good waitress at the diner is a great substitute for companionship. You have a little fun banter with very low expectations, you eat and laugh, they act like they love you for a little while and you leave money and go. But there’s no mess beyond a dirty plate. Everyone involved understands the rules, success is easily achieved, everyone laughs the whole time. Simple.

On a day-to-day basis “the lowly waitress” is the most important person many people see. It could easily be said that one good waitress does more true ministry every meal than any given dozen preachers.

The good ones have a following and they “take care of” many men and women of all ages. Some of the truly old men and women depend on these girls for what is likely their only remaining spark of fun in life. It’s very common to see sweet little ladies light right up when Gloria or Sue-Sue greet them, touch their shoulder in a loving way, and set “their usual” on the table in front of them.

Then either waitress will ease over to some 85 year-old man and call him darlin’ and sugar and all the sweet things his wife said before she died 20 years ago. For just a few minutes that morning the decrepit old guy feels like a Special Man again, and is on top of the world again in that way that only a woman talking to him that way can produce.

These girls are truly a sacred group. Tip them well. They’ve earned it. n

David Clark writes and works in Cochran, GA. Connect with him at