Lexington Life Magazine - April 2024

Maybe we should move all election days to April 1 every year so once a voter leaves the voting machine the candidates can shout April Fools’ Day at them. Regardless of your political affiliation or interest level, I’m amazed at the disproportional attention the presidential election receives compared to the other federal elections. Yes, he or she is the commander in chief of our country, but the bulk of our country’s roadmap is planned and administered by the House and the Senate in Congress. Reelecting incumbents year after year and expecting things to be done differently, is fools’ gold. Ok, I’m stepping down from my soapbox.

Speaking of fools, I proposed to my wife Donna on April Fools’ Day, 28 years ago. Looking back at it, I was certainly young and dumb. We both knew a proposal was in the future, however I wanted it to be a surprise and catch her off guard. I came up with the idea of a “fake” proposal complete with an empty ring box, which would be followed up by the “real” thing. So, during an episode of The Young and the Restless on April 1, 1996, I put my April Fools’ Day plan into action. In the interest of space, I will say there were tears, anger, incredulousness, more tears, disbelief, and then joy. I’m sure Donna would love to give you her version of the story. I bet there haven’t been too many April Fools’ Day proposals, but I was one. I’m fortunate and blessed that she said “yes.” I sure “fooled” her. I want to take this opportunity to let her know how much I love her and am thankful God put us together.

Thanks for reading Lexington Life!

Todd Shevchik

CALENDAR OFevents

APRIL

Thursday, April 4 – Sunday, April 7

12th Annual Tartan Day South Highland Games and Celtic Festival

2001 Charleston Hwy. | Cayce

Tartan Day South honors the Celtic culture and heritage in South Carolina’s Midlands region. Proceeds benefit the River Alliance. For the event schedule visit tartandaysouth.com.

Saturday, April 6

12th Annual Herb Bunch Festival

Lexington County Museum | 231 Fox St.

Lexington | 9 am – 3 pm

Enjoy herbs, vegetables, baked goods, edu cational presentations, and items from local vendors. This annual event raises scholar ship money for a Lexington County student who will study agriculture or horticulture science. Rain or shine, free admission.

Sunday, April 7

2024 Dining on the Dam

Lake Murray Dam | 1832 N Lake Dr.

Lexington | 5 pm – 9 pm

The Lexington Chamber & Visitors Cen ter hosts one of Lexington’s most notable events, where over 1,200 guests from the Midlands and beyond come together to enjoy delicious food, beer and wine, cock tails, and live music on the historic Lake Murray Dam. For more information visit lexingtonsc.org.

Thursday, April 11 – Sunday, April 14

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.

Friday, April 19

Pilgrim Community Preschool Art Festival

Pilgrim Lutheran Church | 1430 North Lake Dr. Lexington | 5:30 pm

This fundraiser celebrates the creativity of preschoolers and brings together art,

Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27

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 27

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 aware-

The Habit of Prayer

PASTOR ROCKY PURVIS

Northside Baptist Church

northsidebaptist.org

4347 Sunset Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072

What kind of habits do you have in your life? The dictionary defines a habit as “an acquired mode of behavior that has become nearly or completely involuntary.” It is acquired because of frequent repetition. In other words, we do it so often that it becomes second nature. We do it without even thinking about it. Here is what I have learned - our daily habits will make us or break us. We can have good habits that make us better or we can have bad habits that make us bitter. It is up to us.

What you may not realize is the Bible gives us not only habits we should avoid. It gives us habits we need to develop. Romans 12:12 says, “Base your happiness on your hope in Christ. When trials come, endure them patiently; steadfastly maintain the habit of prayer.” Paul begins by telling us that our happiness is not based on what we have or even what is happening to us but rather the hope we have in Christ. If we live our lives with the perspective that this world is all there is, we will end up disappointed, regardless of how much we have or how long we live. But then he tells us to be prepared because trials are coming and the only way we can maintain happiness amid trials is the habit of prayer.

There is no habit more important to your spiritual, mental, emotional, relational, and even physical health than prayer. The reason is prayer ushers us into the presence of God and unleashes the power of God. There is no power in heaven or on earth available to us today greater than prayer. E.M. Bounds said, “Prayer can do anything God can do.”

Why don’t we pray? Maybe because we have not been desperate; we have not been to that point in our life where we felt hopeless. Maybe because we have been too busy, we just have not had the time to make the time. Or maybe we have prayed and God didn’t do what we wanted him to do.

I have never regretted spending time in prayer, but I have often regretted not spending time in prayer. When prayer did not change anything else, it always changed me. Start today and develop the habit of prayer. n

Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 am

Life Groups: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 am

by Tenell Felder

Chad Leaphart

Chad Leaphart has worn many hats during his 27 years as a coach and educator. His most recent position as the Athletic Director for Lexington School District One is a continuation of his role as a mentor and leader for student-athletes. “We (Lexington School District One coaches) all work together for that common cause, which is to help student-athletes be the best they can be and help them be successful,” said Leaphart.

Leaphart comes from a family of athletes. His father played on the last team in Lexing ton School District One to win the football state championship in 1950. His brothers also played football for Lexington High School. “I grew up playing everything. We would play football in the fall, basketball in the winter, and baseball in the spring,” he shared.

Leaphart’s interest in coaching was sparked as a football player at Gil bert High School under his coach, Marty Woolbright. After high school, Leaphart went to Newberry College where he played football and earned his Bachelor of Arts in History and Education. He began his first high school coaching position as the assistant football coach at Pelion High School for three years, before going to Strom Thurmond High School where he was the head coach for track and field and the offensive line football coach. During his time there, the team won the state champion ship in football in 2005.

Leaphart’s first head coach position was at Swansea High School. “That program had been struggling some and we ended up having a lot of success. I was there for six years, and then came back home, so to speak, when Gilbert High School’s job opened in 2016,” Leaphart said. His career at Gilbert High School would earn him the title of the all-time winningest coach there.

Leaphart’s final coaching position was to help coach the Shrine Bowl in December 2023. “I’m going to miss being on the field on Friday nights. There’s nothing like Friday night in Gilbert. It’s a great time and a great experience,” said Leaphart.

Though he isn’t coaching athletes anymore, one could argue that he is still in a coaching position – this time for the district’s coaches. “This opportunity allows me to work with more kids across the district and be involved with more athletic programs, more coaches, and to hopefully impact more people,” he said.

Leaphart and his wife, Dr. Elean Leaphart have three children – Jack, Gray, and Ella. “My wife is a doctor at Lexing ton Medical Center. She has been supportive through all of this because there are so many late hours, long nights, working weekends, and traveling,” Leaphart said. Throughout his ca reer, Leaphart had the opportunity to coach his sons through their football careers. His daughter is a student at Gilbert and is involved in student government along with being active in com petitive cheerleading.

As for his new position, Leaphart says he is enjoying meet ing coaches and school administrators. “It’s been great building these relationships. We want to keep our successful athletics pro grams going, we are very proud of our district,” he shared. n

Elliott Pope - Head Coach

Tim Simpkins - Associate Head Coach

Bradon Adams - Director of Statistical Input

Rick Bouknight - B-Team Head Coach

Greg Stewart - JV Head Coach

Kaleb Evans, Jaxon Prunty,

Kyler Hazewinkel, AJ Lane, Seth Adams, Will Burgess, Brayden Rollins, Coulter Bell, Cole Bowers, Cam Scott, Caleb Campbell, Montrell Byrd, Sam Mills

Photos: lexingtonwildcats.com

Congratulations Lexington High School Boys Basketball 5A State Champions!

Danielle Burke: Real Estate, Relationships, and Outreach

by Marilyn Thomas

According to Danielle Burke, a superlative agent with Lexington’s RE/MAX Purpose Driven real estate brokerage, building positive relationships is the defining factor in achieving true success— both inside and outside of the office. To that end, she works to meet the current needs of her clientele, grow those relationships as an informed and communicative housing resource, and unite other like-minded, serviceoriented individuals to assist her local neighbors in need.

In 2014, when Danielle Burke and her family were looking for a new place to call home, they found a welcoming destination within the Lake Murray, Lexington, community. Before relocating to South Carolina, Danielle resided in New York where she received a degree in psychology from Adelphi University and thrived within the corporate and retail worlds.

In the back of her mind, Danielle had always been interested in the field of real estate, but because of the challenges she experienced selling their family home when moving from Long Island to Lexington, Danielle began to seriously consider this professional pursuit as a career choice for herself. “This could be done so much better,” she recalls thinking. “People should be taken care of, and I want to do that for people.”

After settling in Lexington, Danielle internalized the positives and negatives of that relocation experience and determined to become the best real estate agent she could be. The first major steps toward reaching that goal included obtaining a real estate license and finding a brokerage firm that aligned with her own personal and professional goals. When she interviewed with RE/ MAX Purpose Driven on East Main Street in the downtown area,

she decided this was the best fit for her.

“There are many RE/MAX offices across the globe,” she explains. “That office in particular is called ‘Purpose Driven, and I think that is perfect for the office because everybody there really is purpose-driven and community-driven.”

The Lexington RE/MAX website defines its philosophy by describing the real estate group as “a tribe of individual entrepreneurs who carry a similar vision and mission in life,” which is to “serve others, be kind, and live an abundant and purpose-driven life, every day.”

One of the ways the firm makes this happen is by supporting Palmetto Children’s Hospital year-round through fundraising for the Children’s Miracle Network, a nonprofit that financially supports juvenile healthcare. Additionally, Danielle personally volunteers with a philanthropic group that has founded a “Helping Hands for Hardships” program to assist local families in need.

In her role as a real estate agent Danielle further affirms this civic-oriented worldview when she says, “It is my honor to support our community. My passion is providing my clients with exceptional service.” As an example, she shares a story of when she coached a client, a single mother of small children, in prepping her house for the market. The residence had seen its share of day-to-day activity, but Danielle recognized its value, connected the client with the right contractors who updated the property, and ultimately, enabled her to secure the best price for her home.

“Being such a large part of and a guide through a process that is one of the largest financial transactions of my client’s life is such an important and exciting event,” Danielle says. “As a real estate professional, it is my responsibility to protect the best interests of my clients. Everyone deserves to have exceptional real estate guidance.”

Although not in the typical job description of a real estate agent, clients often describe Danielle as a “problem solver” and express their appreciation of her nurturing personal touches. “I white-glove service everything,” she says, “so I always tell them,

“Being such a large part of and a guide through a process that is one of the largest financial transactions of my client’s life is such an important and exciting event.”

you don’t have to worry about what’s next because I’m going to tell you what’s next and bring it to you.”

In addition to providing this conscientious expertise to those who are buying and selling residential properties within the greater Columbia and Lexington region, Danielle also strives to help her clients after the transactions are completed. “My goal is to make every client a client for life,” she says. “Continuing that support and relationship even after the closing is a blessing.”

Primarily, she maintains this connection by monitoring the pulse of the real estate market and communicating relevant trends to her clientele. For example, if interest rates start to drop, she reaches out to her previous home buyers to inform them that refinancing their mortgage loans could be a good idea. If any other major changes occur in the housing market, she updates her customers if these issues could affect the value of their homes.

The results of this level of dedication are undeniable. During her seven-year tenure as a real estate agent, she has received several notable accolades. On the corporate level, RE/MAX has a standardized process for recognizing its exceptional affiliates, and Danielle’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, 2022, and 2024, she was presented with the company’s Platinum Club Award, and in 2022, she was inducted into RE/MAX’s prestigious Hall of Fame. Plus, her positive customer service reviews on Homes.com, a popular online search engine for housing, also earned her the Excellence in Client Service designation in 2021.

The real proof of her success, however, is demonstrated by her thriving business with more than 90 percent of her customer base consisting of returning clients and word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied buyers and sellers. “Relationships are everything in this business,” she says, “and I best serve my clients by building those relationships.”

When not assisting clients, Danielle also enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and three dogs. She is also “blessed” to be the mother of two children, “an amazing, sassy, smart daughter who serves the Lexington County community as a 911 telecommunicator and a loving, funny, strong son who serves our country in the Army.” n

BusinessSPOTLIGHT

by Abigail Harris

Scott’s Furniture

After gaining some experience in the furniture business, Hugh Scott opened his own store in 1972 in the heart of Lexington. In August of 1986, Hugh transferred ownership of the store to the second generation of the family, Paul, who retired in 2008, and Bryson, the current owner. When Bryson retires, they plan to keep the store in the family. Bryson’s daughter, Katie, is the current sales manager, and Paul’s daughter, Amanda, is the current office manager.

Jackie Lovett, an employee for over 40 years at Scott’s Furniture, says their motto is “Making your house a home.” Jackie’s mother worked with Hugh before he founded Scott’s Furniture, and Jackie grew up with the Scott’s being an integral part of her life. One of the best decisions Jackie said she made was when Hugh invited her to join the family business.

With exceptional service and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Scott’s Furniture’s goal is for customers to feel that they are part of the family when they visit the store. Scott’s Furniture strives to help customers find pieces that work cohesively with their space and lifestyle.

When asked what Jackie’s biggest inspiration is, she said, “I believe God led me to be a part of the Scott family, and I am inspired to truly help customers complete their dreams for a comfortable and beautiful home. God has given me a natural gift to be able to help others. I enjoy my work - thinking every day is a gift. I look forward to meeting new people and the challenge of helping them develop their ideas into reality with ease and comfort.”

Scott’s Furniture offers a variety of furnishings spanning from living room and bedroom sets to outdoor patio needs and fireplace units. The knowledgeable sales staff will help you dream, design, and find the perfect furniture to create a welcoming space for your home. Jackie shared, “I, Jackie Lovett, will “Love it” if you ask for me when you come in!”

In its golden era

Riverbanks Zoo celebrates 50 years of wildlife, conservation, and education

by Chesson Merritt

Can you remember a time when Riverbanks Zoo and Garden wasn’t a part of Columbia’s landscape? You would have to go back over five decades to recall an era where it didn’t exist—Back to the late 1960s when Riverbanks Zoo and Garden was known simply as the “Columbia Zoo” and prominent leaders in town were working hard to garner enough support to turn the dream of a small children’s zoo into a reality.

You’d harken back to a time when you’d have to rely on books and photographs to introduce you to the world of African wildlife and to a time when the siamang’s songs didn’t reverberate across the Saluda River and into a beautiful botanical garden.

Fast forward to 2024 when Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is set to celebrate their

50th anniversary in style by remembering their roots as they look forward to another wild and exciting 50 years.

Tommy Stringfellow, named president and CEO of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in August 2017, first came to Columbia in 2002 as the Director of Marketing before becoming the Chief Operating Officer in 2011. In the over 20 years that he has been involved here, he has seen, experienced, and been a part of what makes the local attraction so popular in our community and beyond. What makes it special, surprisingly, is not just the wide variety of animals that visitors can see up close and personal. It’s the people. It’s the team at Riverbanks Zoo, the guests who visit, and the citizens of both Lexington and Richland counties. They have, since 1974, made up the roots

from which the Zoo has blossomed. Riverbanks Zoo would not be the zoo that it is today without the knowledgeable, experienced, and enthusiastic team of wildlife experts that they have assembled to care for the animals and the property. In addition to the world-class care that they provide, they have also created an atmosphere within the park that welcomes and educates everyone who visits.

“We use our southern charm to our advantage,” said Stringfellow. “From the time you park your car until the time you walk back out the gates at the end of your visit, you experience what we believe southern hospitality should be. We’re talking to you throughout your visit, asking you how your day was, answering any questions you have.”

Each detail of Riverbanks Zoo has been carefully curated to provide optimal experiences for everyone who visits. Being a midsize zoo means that it’s easy for visitors to experience most of what the Zoo has to offer in 3-4 hours. Visitors do not walk long distances between exhibits and the intimate nature of the Zoo allows for more contact points between staff and visitors. This is an area where the staff shines as they use their experience to educate.

“Our staff is so knowledgeable,” said Stringfellow. “Where other zoos struggle to find experienced people to add to their teams, we don’t. Our new Director of Animal Welfare has a background that includes many years at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and time at San Diego Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the country. His goal

was to get to Riverbanks for several reasons, including the reputation that we carry and the culture that we have. We attract a lot of incredible talent from other major zoos. That’s been a huge part of our success—Having the staff that we have for the care of our animals.”

The guests that frequent Riverbanks Zoo are the second group of people that make up the Zoo’s success over the last 50 years.

Visitors flock to Columbia—over 1 million annually—to enjoy one of the Top 10 Zoos in the country. Of course, they’re coming to see the animals. They come for the up-close encounters with rhinos, to see the seals and sea lions swim effortlessly through the water, to catch a glimpse of the tigers prowling through the bamboo of their exhibit, and to spend time wandering through the new Boyd Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center.

Visitors also go for signature events in the holiday season and fundraising events like Zoofari in the fall. Riverbanks Zoo does a fair share of entertaining and hosting guests each day. They’ve made their park a fun and exciting place to spend time, which is shown by the volume of visitors that walk through their gates.

Their mission extends past simply having a fun place to go. Their mission is to create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation. These connections made with visitors are another reason that makes Riverbanks Zoo a treasured piece of the community.

“I like to say that each year, we have the opportunity to make an educational impression on over 1.2 million people,” said Stringfellow. “Visitors can learn from something that they read at one of the exhibits, from watching one of our educational shows, or by listening in to one of our team members.”

Visitors can also learn from watching what Riverbanks Zoo does, as actions often speak the loudest and leave the longest impression.

Every time someone visits the Zoo, they donate to wildlife conservation efforts. A portion of every item sold—from tickets to stuffed animals in the gift shop, concessions, and even the souvenir photos—goes into a conservation fund that is managed by a committee. The committee then, in turn, makes decisions about where the funds should go. Riverbanks Zoo has made generous contributions worldwide and right in their backyard, supporting organizations such as the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources as they work towards conserving local ecosystems and wildlife along the Saluda River.

Stringfellow and his staff have also ensured that they are doing their part, too. They’ve gone green in many ways from solar power to reducing their energy consumption, utilizing recycled material to create permanent structures like the children’s playground, and even replacing their plastic straws with straws made from recycled oyster shells.

If you look past the gates of Riverbanks Zoo and into the surrounding communities, you’ll find the final group of people that have provided the support the Zoo needed to operate for the last 50 years: the citizens that call Lexington and Richland counties home. They set the groundwork in the early days for the support of a zoo coming to Columbia and they have continually provided their encouragement throughout the decades.

“The taxpayer support from the citizens in both counties has been the biggest contributing factor to our success,” said Stringfellow “Riverbanks is the only one out of the 252 zoos in the country recognized by the American Zoological Association that spans two different counties and has a natural river that splits the middle of the campus. This has provided us with two entities, which is better than one, that can give us support.”

As Riverbanks Zoo looks to the future, they have set their sights across the Saluda River to the Botanical Garden side of their campus where the stage is set for their next expansion. Bridge to the Wild is something that Stringfellow is excited to see come to life.

“We met with the staff 2-3 years ago to develop our future master plan,” said Stringfellow. “We asked lots and lots of people what animals we would like to have if we could pick and choose? What could we afford? As much as we’d love to have pandas, I’m not sure that financially we could fit them into our medium-sized zoo. The ones that we chose to bring to our Bridge to the Wild expansion are native species that are on the verge of becoming endangered: black bears!”

“We’re also bringing in red wolves,” said Stringfellow. “They were almost completely extinct but now they’re coming

back. Red wolves are from this area, so it’s a great conservation story to tell. You can’t forget about the bald eagles we hope to include, either.”

The Bridge to the Wild is also expected to give the Zoo a larger footprint, encouraging visitors to stay longer at both the Zoo and in Columbia, giving the surrounding metropolitan area an economic boost through hotel stays, meals out at restaurants, and visits to other area attractions. As much as the community loves and supports the Zoo, the Zoo does its best to offer the same level of each back to the community.

Where would Columbia be without the Zoo’s lasting impact over the last 50 years? It’s hard to tell, but there’s one thing we know for sure: this town, community, and state are all better off having had Riverbanks Zoo and Garden as part of its landscape since 1974. n

Fifty years after its founding, the Autism Society of South Carolina continues to improve the lives of South Carolinians

by Erin Bluvas

Across the state, local women are looking out for children with autism and their families. Strategically located in every community, these Parent Mentors have been hired by the Autism Society of South Carolina as part of the nonprofit organization’s Parent School Partnership Program.

Parent Mentors have children of their own who have been diagnosed with autism. They are experienced in advocating for their students to help them reach their full potential within the educational system as they navigate this lifelong, complex developmental disorder. The Autism Society connects families of autistic children with Parent Mentors in their area. Together, they work to build a collaborative relationship between parents and schools.

“These Parent Mentors have walked that walk, and a lot of them have children who are already in college, which gives hope to the parents who use our services,” says Outreach Coordinator Toni Smith, who leads the Parent Mentor Program. “Some of them get called late at night when parents are struggling, and our mentors help them feel understood and figure out how to move forward.”

Becoming a Parent Mentor is often a natural evolution of years of working closely with the Autism Society. One mother volunteered for their annual Strides for Autism Walk for many years before deciding she wanted to take on an official role as a Parent Mentor.

Whether initiated by parents, schools, or the Society, the process begins with introductions and training. Parent Mentor Jill Powell, who provides support for Clarendon, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Hor-

ry, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg counties, has developed parent training related to the next steps after an autism diagnosis, preparing for Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings, and organizing documents related to the child’s development.

Parent Mentors help parents develop strong partnerships with school personnel, who then work together to guide students with autism toward increased independence and academic achievement. They also serve as a resource for schools on issues related to autism, make referrals to other agencies and groups, and facilitate parental involvement in the education process. They help ensure that families understand special education rights and responsibilities.

Parent surveys tell the story best. Respondents report that they value Parent Mentors’ assistance in developing IEPs, sharing their experiences in transitioning from elementary school into adulthood, and their general knowledge and guidance about autism and other special needs.

Another major program offered by the Autism Society South Carolinas is Case Management. Serving the broader autism community, this program deploys case managers in the Upstate, the Midlands, the Pee Dee, and the Low Country areas to help connect individuals with autism and their families to a range of resources and services.

Case Managers serve as independent advocates, assist with residential placement, and day services, address needs and problems, and help identify, and secure appropriate programming. They stay involved in clients’ lives to maintain care and

monitor satisfaction.

At every level, the Autism Society partners with individuals and families to advocate for personal and systems-level changes. They work closely with families and partners to make widespread, lasting impacts.

Approximately one in every 36 children is identified with autism spectrum disorder, according to 2020 data reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This prevalence rate is up from one in 150 children in 2000 – a 10 to 17 percent annual increase.

All racial, ethnic, and income levels are affected, though minority communities already facing health disparities experienced a 30 percent increase between 2028 and 2020. Further, boys are nearly four times as likely as girls to be diagnosed.

While the number of individuals with autism spectrum disorder is approximately seven million nationwide, the Autism Society estimates that more than 77,000 South

Carolinians have the condition. Successful intervention and management of autism is largely dependent on early diagnosis, education, and access to services.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control recommends parents utilize a developmental milestone tracking tool provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As part of their larger Developmental Milestone Checklist Program, this tracking tool is available as an app and can help parents recognize signs of a developmental delay or disability and when/ how to act. Once they have received an evaluation and diagnosis, parents can then connect with organizations like the Autism Society of South Carolina for support and resources.

“Autism is different for everyone, and there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to managing it,” says Autism Society Human Resources and Operations Manager Tanaka Long, whose goddaughter was diagnosed with autism in recent years. “Working for a nonprofit organization that assists individuals who have disabilities is a fulfilling endeavor that allows us to make a difference in the lives of many South Carolinians and their families.”

Established in the 1970s, the Autism Society of South Carolina was founded by a group of parents of children with autism who realized there was a lack of accurate and appropriate knowledge and resources surrounding the condition. Fifty years later, this grassroots initiative remains the only statewide advocate for autistic individuals and their families. Their programming and fundraising efforts aim to ensure that these residents achieve a quality of life comparable to their peers and neighbors.

Visit scautism.org/ for resources, volunteer, and donation opportunities. n

The Downing Group

Two Gals and a Fork

by Tenell Felder

Two Gals and a Fork, started by Janet Jordan and Gloria Freeman, offers a oneof-a-kind sightseeing and culinary experience on their tour. Participants visit local restaurants, sampling a special dish at each one and learning the history of the town along the way.

“This is what it’s all about,” Freeman said at O’Hara’s Public House, the last stop of a recent food tour in Lexington. “People start on the tour as strangers and by the end – after they have eaten and broken bread together – they are talking with one another as friends.”

Two Gals and a Fork began in 2014 after Jordan and Freeman went on a food tour at Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington during a work trip.

“There were about six of us on that tour. It was a small group, and our tour guide was a very animated theater major. When we finished the tour he came back, and we had Bloody Mary’s. We talked and he said ‘You two have great personalities. You could do this,’” Jordan recalled.

On the plane ride back to Columbia from Seattle, Freeman and Jordan decided they would start their own food tour company.

“We wanted to start at Blue Marlin first because we thought Columbia was ready for this type of opportunity. We met with Blue Marlin to see what they thought about the idea, and they loved it,” Jordan said.

Jordan and Freeman met with more restaurant managers in downtown Columbia to ask if they wanted to participate as a stop on the Two Gals and a Fork food tour.

“We thought Two Gals and a Fork would be a great way to bring people into the city and have them experience local restaurants. We started in the Vista in Columbia and would do two tours each day. We had a brunch tour from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and then a Sights and Bites tour from 4 to 6:30 p.m.,” said Freeman.

Next, Jordan and Freeman set up a tour in Newberry.

“Our Newberry tour is very popular –it’s such a quaint little town and they have great restaurants,” Jordan said.

After partnering with Capital City/ Lake Murray Country for a special tourism project, Two Gals and a Fork began offering food tours in Lexington in 2018.

“Capital City/Lake Murray Country arranged for a television show called Anglers & Appetites to come to Lexington. We were asked to help set up restaurants for the show’s host to visit. That is how we got started in Lexington,” Freeman said.

During a recent food tour of Main Street in Lexington, Two Gals and a Fork took a group to enjoy tastings at Private Property, Alodia’s, Nicky’s Pizza, Bodhi, and O’Hara’s.

“We never know exactly what they’re going to serve on the tour, but they always serve something good,” said Freeman.

On the menu for a recent Two Gals and a Fork Lexington food tour were the following dishes: seared scallops and fried corn from Private Property, pasta topped with steak in a Gorgonzola cheese sauce from Alodia’s, a pickle pizza and mar-

Two Gals and a Fork tour participants walk to each location where they get to enjoy a dish and speak with the restaurant’s

chef and/or manager.

“During our food tour, we go to five restaurants with tastings at each. It allows the restaurants to showcase what they do and get people in the door to talk about the food. In between each of the five stops we talk about the history of the area.”

Tourgoers will hear amusing and interesting historical anecdotes about days gone by from the Lexington County Historical Museum representative, Patricia Shandor.

“We take gratuities at the end of the tour and all of them are donated back to the museum. We don’t make much money. We don’t pay ourselves; we consider ourselves ambassadors. People learn about the restaurants, and they’ll come back. That is what we want,” said Jordan.

“We always tell people when you come back, tell them that you came with Two Gals and a Fork, and they will take good care of you.”

To find out about upcoming food tour dates and locations, and to purchase tour tickets, visit twogalsfoodtours.com.

*The next Two Gals and a Fork food tour will be in Lexington on April 13 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. n

garita pizza from Nicky’s Pizza, Chicken Ballotine with Massaman curry sauce from Bodhi, and beef stew with freshly baked bread and a cannoli from O’Hara’s Public House and Bakery.

Purple Martin

phenomenon

by Kim Becknell Williams

“Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?” ~David Attenborough

Zach Steinhauser is a naturalist, who turned a passion for what he loves into work that educates others on wildlife and the outdoors. He shares his knowledge through numerous eco-tours, works at a local gardening center, and a recently completed documentary on Purple Martins.

“I grew up admiring Steve Irwin (the late TV star of The Crocodile Hunter) and always looked for every opportunity to get

outside and get my hands on any wildlife I could find,” Steinhauser said. “I’ve carried that passion into my career traveling around the world to encounter the animals I grew up reading about and watching on television,” he continued.

A lot of his work focuses on Purple Martins, North America’s largest swallow species. The birds arrive in South Carolina in the spring, usually between February and March. He explained that then they go to nesting colonies, nest in manmade birdhouses, gourds, or condos, lay eggs around April, and incubate for six to eight

weeks until around Memorial Day or June. Once the babies are gone and have literally flown the coop, the birds flock to Bomb Island for a pre-migratory roost. While there, they sleep on the island overnight, go off during the day, and flock back together at night. Around Labor Day the birds leave before winter to go to the Amazon Rainforest. So, there is a window of time to get to see them locally.

Steinhauser is an owner of Carolina Safari Co., which offers boat tours to see the birds during their brief stay on the island. A licensed captain with the Coast Guard, Captain Zach leads the boat excursions. This allows the other tour participants to get a closer view of the birds during their visit to Bomb Island, which is located in the middle of Lake Murray. “We leave Jakes Landing Marina and cruise out to Bomb Island where I discuss with my guests the happenings of Purple Martins on Lake Murray and why they are flocking on this particular island,” he said. “After sunset, as the birds are settling down for the night, we head back to the marina.” Relaxing lake water, and magnificent views of the flock of birds, topped off with a stunning sunset are sure to impress. “Most of the guests I take out are viewing this for the first time, they are usually awe-struck that so many birds can gather in one place.” Guests include families, couples, outdoor nature enthusiasts, and local Lake Murray residents.

Many gardeners and bird lovers build and/or erect houses to draw Purple Martins to their yards. Jill Monger is one of

those who lives near the S.C. coast. She has created a habitat for birds, including Purple Martins right in her backyard where the birds return each year. “I adore waking each morning to their song,” Monger said. “Scouts show up in February; families move in April or May.” She goes out each February to clean out the houses in preparation for the Purple Martins’ annual visit. “Predators have been an issue,” she said. “So, I changed houses and the fledge in July.” She uses a wave pattern opening with her gourds after discovering that a grackle had carried away the hatchlings a few years ago. A hobby that began more than twenty years ago continues to draw many feathered friends to her backyard oasis.

Those interested in birding and outdoor nature lovers can venture throughout the state to see how wildlife thrives. One way to do this is through other guided outdoor excursions with Carolina Safari Co. delving into different natural areas across the state. It’s a great way to observe, take photos in a natural setting, and learn a little. Some of these excursions for private groups, team building, and other interested participants include:

• birdwatching in various areas of the state, like Kiawah, West Columbia, and Allendale

• kayaking to see spider lilies in bloom at Landsford Canal State Park

• stranding dolphin tours

• bison ranch tours

• fossil hunts (popular near the coast)

• workshops

• nature walks

For more information and to see photos visit carolinasafarico.com.

Steinhauser’s newest adventure includes making his conservation film documenting the Purple Martin world. He has always

had an interest in wildlife filmmaking and now that interest has come to fruition. He started making the documentary about five years ago and it premiered in Lexington in April 2022. “Purple Haze is a film that is meant to inspire everyday folks to look at the wildlife they have in their community and look into what they can do to help and conserve our local wildlife,” he said. “It just so happened that the Purple Martins on Lake Murray sent me halfway around the world and back.” Screenings are ongoing with one slated for June in Columbia. For more info, to view the trailer, and for screening updates, check the website purplehazeacfmovie.com.

Aside from his ecotourism work and making the Purple Haze documentary, Steinhauser works at Wingard’s Market in Lexington as a naturalist in their Backyard Nature Center. He assists customers with creating backyard ponds, showing others how to make a sustainable habitat for wildlife, and, of course, offering birding expertise to help those who want to draw birds to their yards. n

Five fun facts about Purple Martins from Steinhauser:

1. Purple Martins are not always purple. Depending on how the light hits them they can look blue or purple, it’s a matter of perspective.

2. They dine on insects in the air. They are what is called an “aerial insectivore” meaning they feed primarily on insects, and they catch them while in flight. They are not like mockingbirds who run around people’s yards plucking bugs out of the grass.

3. The birds prefer hanging out in spacious places. Wetlands like Lake

Murray are great because they have ample open airspace, but meadows and farms are also great places to find them.

4. The longest-living Purple Martin made it to 13 years old.

5. When the birds gather at Bomb Island, they are so numerous that the flock shows up on the NEXRAD Radar.

Caregiver’s Support Group

Oakleaf Village hosts a monthly gathering for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s. Gain valuable insights, find encouragement, and recieve help in navigating the challenges of the disease with a sense of understanding, support and community.

First Thursday of Every Month | 6:00PM

803•832•4356

800 N. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072

OakleafVillageLexington.com

alz.org

Sponsored By: Senior Living Choices offered by Liberty Senior Living

effective Ways to Manage Seasonal Allergies

by Lisa Morris

Are you one of the millions of people suffering from seasonal allergies? If so, you know how miserable allergy season can be. Sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose are just a few symptoms that can make you feel downright miserable. But the good news is that there are things you can do to prepare for allergy season and reduce your exposure to allergens.

Monitor the pollen count.

One of the easiest ways to prepare for allergy season is to monitor the pollen count. It’s not hard to do, either. Many weather apps and websites provide daily pollen counts for your area. Check the pollen count regularly and plan your activities accordingly. If the pollen count is high, try to stay indoors as much as possible, especially in the morning and early evening when pollen levels tend to be highest.

If you love to exercise outdoors, consider moving your workout to a different time of day or taking it inside. And if you do have to go outside, minimize your exposure to pollen by wearing a hat and sunglasses to keep pollen away from your face and eyes.

Keep your home clean.

Another way to reduce your exposure to allergens is to keep your home clean. Dust and vacuum regularly and use a HEPA filter in your vacuum to trap allergens. HEPA filters are designed to capture even the tiniest particles, like pollen and pet dander, so they

don’t get kicked up into the air when you vacuum.

Did you know that washing your bedding, curtains, and other fabrics regularly can be a game-changer for improving your indoor air quality? Not only does it help eliminate dust mites, but it also removes pollen and other allergens that can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms.

So, what’s the secret to effective fabric cleaning? It’s simple - hot water! Washing your fabrics in hot water is the most effective way to kill dust mites and remove pollen. Ideally, the water temperature should be at least 130°F (54°C) to ensure you eliminate mites and allergens. Wash your fabrics regularly, at least once a week, to maintain a healthy and clean environment.

Also, use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in your home below 50 percent to discourage mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments, so reducing the amount of moisture in the air is key to preventing its growth. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air and collects it in a reservoir or drains it out of your home. By keeping the humidity levels in your home low, you can create an environment less hospitable to mold.

Remove the clothes and shoes you wear outdoors when you come in.

Did you know that removing your outdoor clothes and shoes before entering your home

can make a big difference in reducing the amount of allergens in your living space?

When you spend time outside, you can easily pick up allergens like pollen, dust, and dirt on your clothes and shoes. These allergens can then make their way into your home and cause allergic reactions or exacerbate existing allergies.

By taking off your outdoor clothes and shoes before coming inside, you can minimize the number of allergens that enter your living space. It’s a simple and easy habit that can make a big difference in your indoor air quality and health. So, next time you come inside from a walk or errands, take a moment to take off your shoes before coming inside and change clothes so you don’t spread allergens throughout the house.

Keep windows and doors closed.

During allergy season, it’s best to keep your windows and doors closed to keep pollen and other allergens out. Use an air conditioner to keep your home cool, and ensure the filter is clean and functioning properly. If you need to open a window, do it in the early morning or late evening when pollen counts are lowest.

Use a Neti Pot to flush out allergens.

Have you ever heard of a Neti Pot? It might sound strange at first, but this ancient Ayurvedic technique can do wonders for your nasal passages. Essentially, it involves using a sterile saline solution (make sure it’s sterile) to gently wash out your nose, helping prevent allergens from entering and causing inflammation.

So why might you want to try using a Neti Pot? Well, for starters, it can be a great way to relieve congestion and sinus pressure. If you’ve ever had a stuffy nose, you know how frustrating it can be to feel like you can’t breathe properly. Neti Pots can help clear out

excess mucus and other irritants, making it easier to breathe freely.

Manage stress.

Many people find that stress worsens the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Are you stressed about work? School? Family issues? Your relationship with friends or significant others? Take some time to think about what’s causing you anxiety, then find ways to deal with those issues healthily.

If you’re having trouble sleeping because of worries about money or schoolwork, talk to someone who can help, it might be helpful just getting things off your chest. And if nothing else seems like it will work, consider seeking professional help from a psychologist or therapist.

Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for seasonal allergies.

When it comes to treating allergies, there are many options available to you. From overthe-counter antihistamines to steroid-based nasal sprays, it can be overwhelming to decide which treatment is right for you. That’s why it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor about your symptoms and lifestyle. Your doctor can help guide you toward the best treatment options for your situation.

Seasonal allergies can be a nuisance, but with the right approach, you can manage them. From identifying your triggers to creating a clean indoor environment, there are ways to keep your allergies under control. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can minimize symptoms and enjoy the changing seasons without discomfort. Remember to consult your doctor if you are experiencing severe allergies, as they can provide additional guidance and treatment options. n

firstpriorit ylandscapingsolutions .com

Specializing in Landscape Design and Make Overs

spice OF LIFE Scrumptious Spring Salads

Broccoli Apple Salad

4 cups broccoli florets, diced

2 gala apples, cored and diced

1 cup walnuts

1 cup matchstick carrots, chopped

½ cup golden raisins or dried cranberries

¼ cup red onion, chopped

Dressing:

¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

⅓ cup mayonnaise (full fat)

1 ½ tbsp apple cider vinegar

3 tbsp honey

salt

Prepare and combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk together dressing ingredients and pour over the salad. Toss until evenly coated with dressing and salt to taste.

Black Bean, Corn, and Avocado Salad

1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15-oz) can corn kernels, drained and rinsed

1 tomato, diced

1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and diced

½ red onion, diced

½ cup packed fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

1 jalapeño, ribs and seeds removed, finely diced

1 small garlic clove, minced

2 tbsp lime juice

1 tbsp canola oil

½ tsp ground cumin

¼ tsp salt, plus more as needed

¼ tsp black pepper

Prepare and combine all ingredients in a large bowl and toss well. Taste and season with more lime juice or salt, if needed.

Antipasto Salad

1 lb grape tomatoes, halved

1 cup black olives, sliced

½ cup green olives, sliced

½ cup pepperoncini, sliced

1 cup marinated artichokes, chopped

4-oz sliced salami, quartered

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing:

¼ cup olive oil

1 tbsp Italian seasoning

1 garlic clove, grated fresh parsley, chopped salt and pepper

Prepare and combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Mix dressing ingredients and pour over the salad. Toss until evenly coated with dressing and salt and pepper to taste.

Honey Lime Fruit Salad

1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 cup blueberries

1 cup mandarin oranges, drained

1 cup grapes, sliced in half

1 cup cherries, sliced in half and seed removed

1 cup pineapple chunks

Dressing:

1 lime juice and zest

¼ cup honey

1 tbsp orange juice

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Prepare and combine all fruit ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Whisk together dressing ingredients and pour over the salad. Stir lightly to coat and keep refrigerated until ready to serve. n

unstoppable

After a long day’s garden work, we’ll sit on buckets with a water bottle. The world grows dark. The birds get quiet. The crickets buzz. The first stars come twinkling out. It’s a peaceful and worshipful time.

Who doesn’t remember the first time hearing ghost stories around a fire? I was so scared I could hardly stand it, and the older kids laughed at us youngsters. As the fire burnt low, the darkness amplified our irrational terror.

During teenage years darkness brought experiences we’d never had. Those dizzy moments always contained a nagging knowledge that darkness was a cover for things we wouldn’t do in daylight.

In that same period somebody broke our heart, and a darkness nobody else saw descended on our soul. Nobody forgets that all-encompassing misery, though we may wryly laugh at its relative simplicity today.

Darkness has unique qualities. We can say it’s the absence of light, but it can be much more than that. It is a physical fact. It is a metaphor. Darkness can signify a living force or the ending of life. There seem to be degrees of darkness, and the older we get

the more impenetrable it can become. It’s as if Darkness is a spirit, and Darkness says: “Oh, you thought you knew me. Watch this!”

The darkest place and time I’ve ever known was when Daddy died. For years I was as sightlessly numb as if the sun was blotted out and I was blindfolded.

Anyone paying reasonable attention to current events sees a darkness in the form of an unstoppable creeping, spreading blot on the life we’ve always known. It’s like somebody has spilled a bottle of India Ink on Mama’s finest tablecloth, and we helplessly watch it spread and ooze into thread after thread of society’s fabric. We wonder what we could possibly do about it.

It’s as if we have walked down into a canyon under a cloud-filled sky. Everywhere we look we see the increasing impenetrable darkness. We stand convinced that we are forgotten in the dark.

A long time ago a man named John wrote about the beginnings of all things, and how the first thing was the Word. And this Word contained life. And this life was the light of men. But he followed with

a statement it’s important to remember: “The light shineth in the darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not.”

As we stumble in awe of the canyon’s dark power, we believe darkness is so powerful it doesn’t need to comprehend the light.

I’ve read it was a capital crime to smoke during a blackout in World War II military camps in Europe because they’d figured out German bomber pilots could see the glow of a single cigarette from 30,000 feet.

You can count on this: The darkness will not comprehend the light inside you.

But be certain the darkness cannot overcome your light, no matter how small you believe it is.

Thank God for guidance, and shine. n