It’s an odd year, with Thanksgiving at the very end of November, which has rekindled the debate over “when is it time to decorate for Christmas?” Personally, I don’t understand all the consternation toward folks who are decorating before Thanksgiving. What’s wrong with extending the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth a few extra weeks? A longer Christmas season provides me extra time to really get into the “reason for the season.”
One way we do this in our household is by watching Christmas shows on television. There are the traditional ones like: It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation, the Grinch, and Elf to name a few. We also watch the Hallmark Christmas movies which provide much laughter at the goofy storylines and bad acting. They all tend to have similar themes but are still enjoyable to watch. I wonder what a Lexington Hallmark movie plot might be? Hmm.
(Cue dream sequence music and light snowfall, location Chick-fil-A parking lot downtown Lexington.)
Sarah Grace is decorating the orange construction cones in the parking lot when she is struck by a truck driven by Hunter Chase. Hunter was trying to figure out how to exit the parking lot. Is it a left turn only? Sarah Grace is worried that people might think it’s a Hooters with all the orange cones and sneaks out of the hospital to continue decorating. Hunter Chase, unbeknownst to Sarah Grace, owns a Christmas tree farm and tries to make things better by selling trees for her surgery. Of course, they end up happily ever after.
Voting for the Best of Lexington 2025 ends December 15th, so make sure to vote for your favorites! Local businesses are what support the Lexington community, I encourage everyone to shop locally. Thanks for reading Lexington Life Magazine, I appreciate your time and never take that for granted.
Have a Merry Christmas and wonderful Yuletide season!
Kim Curlee Production Manager kimcurlee214@gmail.com
Jane Carter Editorial Designer jcarterdesign@comcast.net Hailey McCarron USC Student Intern haileymccarron7@gmail.com
Todd Shevchik
CALENDAR OFevents
DECEMBER
Saturday & Sunday, December 7 & 8
Lexington Youth Ballet’s
The Nutcracker
Lexington Two Performing Arts Center
3205 Platt Springs Rd. | West Columbia
The Nutcracker featuring Lexington Youth Ballet dancers and professional guest artists will bring this time-honored tradition of the Christmas season to Lexington County. For tickets visit theacademyoflyb.com.
Saturday, December 7
Saint Nicholas Festival
Pilgrim Lutheran Church
1430 North Lake Dr.| Lexington | 5 pm
Join us for food trucks, shopping, crafts, and a jazz show. Hear the story of St. Nicholas with a special visit from St. Nicholas himself at 6 pm. Bring two cans of chunky soup to donate. Visit wearepilgrim.net for more information.
Sunday, December 8
Christmas Parade
108 W Main St.| Lexington | 3 pm
Join the Town of Lexington and the Lexing ton Jaycees for the annual Christmas Parade down Main Street. Get in the Christmas spirit by watching an array of parade floats make their way through downtown.
Sunday, December 8
Lexington County Museum
Christmas Open House
Lexington County Museum
231 Fox St. Lexington | 1 pm – 4 pm
Come and experience Christmas traditions of the past at the Museum. This free, fami ly-friendly event includes light refreshments
from the 19th century, a blacksmith presentation, and a cooking demonstration. Visit lexingtoncountymuseum.org for more information.
Thursday, December 12
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Colonial Life Arena
801 Lincoln St.
Columbia | 7 pm
Rock out this holiday season with Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “The Lost Christmas Eve Tour.” For tickets visit coloniallifearena.com.
Friday, December 13
Giftique Ladies Night
Wingard’s Market
1403 N. Lake Dr.
Lexington | 6 pm – 8 pm
Take some time to unwind after hours with wine and yummy treats. For more information visit wingardsmarket.com.
Saturday, December 14
Jamil Shriners Craft Market
206 Jamil Rd. | Columbia | 9 am – 5 pm
Showcasing homemade and retail items for your home and hobbies. Enjoy live Christmas music and refreshments. For more information visit jamilcraftshow.com.
Saturday & Sunday, December 14 & 15
The 37th Annual Columbia
Christmas Pageant
First Baptist Church
1306 Hampton St. | Columbia
This Christmas spectacular is a family tradition to usher in the Christmas Season. Admission is free but you need a ticket to enter. For more information visit columbiachristmaspageant.com.
Saturday, December 21
Old Fashioned Christmas Camp
The Farm 1780
Merry
Christmas from Lexington Life
faithMATTERS
ROCKY PURVIS
Northside Baptist Church 4347 Sunset Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072
803-520-5660 • northsidebaptist.org
It’s December! That means a month filled with family gatherings, lots of food, decorations galore, and of course, Christmas movies. Do you have a favorite? One of mine is “It’s a Wonderful Life.” It tells the story of George Bailey, a man who is thinking about ending his life on Christmas Eve. He has had some difficult times and believes his life has been a waste. Fortunately, Clarence Odbody, a goofy angel, who is trying to earn his wings intervenes and shows George all the lives he has touched and how different the world would be if he were not around.
Do you believe in angels? Some have the idea that they are people who have died. Have you ever heard someone say, “I guess God needed another angel.” Others picture angels as chubby looking winged creatures that sit on clouds playing harps all day. And many seem to have the idea that they are feminine since every church play seems to have ladies playing the part of angels. But all of those ideas are incorrect.
The Bible mentions angels almost 300 times. It tells us that they are powerful, created, spiritual beings who are God’s ministers and messengers. They live in the spiritual realm that is unseen by our physical eyes but at times they take on human form to speak for or serve God. It was angels that warned Lot and his family to leave Sodom, protected Daniel when he was thrown in the lion’s den, and freed Peter from prison and a certain death. In Hebrews 1:14 we are told, “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?”
When we read the Christmas story, we discover angels delivering the greatest message ever given. When an angel appeared to Joseph, he told him that the child inside Mary’s womb would save his people from their sin. When the angel appeared to Mary, he told her that her son would be called the Son of the Most High and His Kingdom would never end. And when the angel appeared to the Shepherds, he told them the Savior has been born, who is Christ, the Lord.
As you celebrate Christmas this month, thank God for the gift of His Son, Jesus, our Savior but let me also encourage you to thank Him for His angels that are sent to minister to each of us who will inherit salvation.
Have a Great Christmas! n
Sunday: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 am Life Groups: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 am
LEXINGTONleader
by Hailey McCarron
Amy Reeves
After serving as Mission Lexington’s Director of Community Outreach for a year and a half, Amy Reeves was recently promoted to the new Executive Director. She is excited to continue the organization’s mission of serving those in crisis. “I have always admired the incredible work this organization has done, and as I take on this new position, I see a future of continued growth and deepened impact in our community,” Reeves said.
Reeves, a South Carolina native, graduated from Ben Lippen High School and Columbia International University with degrees in Psychology and Theology. She has over 20 years of experience in commercial real estate management and has served on several non-profit boards. Her expertise in management, strategic planning, and client relations will be crucial in her leadership at Mission Lexington.
Founded in 1978 by four local churches, Mission Lexington has become a key resource for individuals and families in need throughout Lexington County. In 2023, the organization met close to 40,000 needs, providing essentials like food, clothing, and shelter, as well as services like rehousing families.
As Executive Director, Reeves will guide Mission Lexington’s strategic direction and maintain relationships with
clients, donors, and volunteers. “One of my key goals is to focus on sustainability— both in terms of our resources and the long-term outcomes for those we serve. We will prioritize not just meeting immediate needs but empowering individuals to build stable, fulfilling lives. I envision us fostering deeper connections with our supporters, ensuring that every donor, volunteer, and partner understands the direct impact they are making,” Reeves explained.
Mission Lexington operates a thrift store, food pantry, donation center, and social services in downtown Lexington. Its network of partners, including 63 member churches, local businesses, and government agencies, sustains its mission of “Glorifying God by serving our neighbors in crisis.”
Looking ahead, Reeves is optimistic. “My vision for Mission Lexington is rooted in expanding our services, reaching even more individuals and families in need, and
amplifying the hope and support we provide,” she said. Under her leadership, the organization will remain a vital source of hope and positive change for the people of Lexington County.
Reeves is committed to ensuring Mission Lexington remains the leading provider of services to those in crisis. “Our staff is amazing and the backbone of our organization. Their heart for service to the community is what makes us so special. Together, we will ensure Mission Lexington continues to be a beacon of hope, compassion, and transformation,” she said.
Reeves and her husband enjoy spending time with family and friends and are active in the community. They have four sons and are members of Mt. Horeb Church. As recent empty nesters, one of their favorite things to do is take quick weekend trips to new towns and explore local restaurants and sites. n
Let the Season Sparkle
The holidays are here and it’s time to shine. We have rounded up some of the best light shows in the state.
Holiday Lights on the River
November 27December 31
Saluda Shoals Park 6071 St. Andrews Rd. Columbia • icrc.net
Experience the largest drive-through lights show in the Midlands as the park comes alive with two miles of lights featuring colorful, animated displays of all shapes and sizes. After, take a spin on the holiday train, slide down the tube slide, wander the lights maze, take in a laser light show on the river trail, roast marshmallows, and meet Santa.
Lights at SC State Fair Grounds
December 3 –26
901 George Rogers Blvd., Columbia scstatefair.org
Experience the magic of the holiday season at this drive-through light experience with more than 100 stunning individual LED light displays. Rediscover beloved favorites from past years and be enchanted by new displays. Refreshments are available to purchase.
Fireflies Holiday Lights
November 15 –
January 4
Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia firefliesholidaylights. com
Walk through the winter wonderland of lights at the Fireflies Stadium. Enjoy other family fun activities including picking out your tree from Richardson Tree Farm, visiting with Santa, and making s’mores.
See Brookgreen Gardens come to life amid the soft glow of more than 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights.
Walk the paths with a warm cup of cider, hear the sounds of holiday music, and celebrate the season with family and friends.
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
November 15 –January 12
500 Wildlife Parkway Columbia riverbanks.org
Stroll through the Zoo and discover nearly 60 largerthan-life handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature. Enjoy interactive activities, fun photo ops, and seasonal favorites including nightly snowfall and visits with Santa (through December 23). Advance registration is required.
Holiday Festival of Lights
November 15December 31
James Island County Park
871 Riverland Dr., Charleston ccprc.com
With over 750 light displays, this drive-through show is one you don’t want to miss. Children will love taking a ride on an antique-style carousel, while the entire family can take a stroll along the walking trail. Climbing wall, gift shop, refreshments, and visits with Santa – there’s something for everyone.
by Marilyn Thomas photos
Lola Dee Photography
RReal Estate Professional April Stroud, with The Real Estate Brokerage company in Lexington, understands that buying or selling a home can often be a challenging process. As a South Carolina native who is committed to her home state as well as her profession, Stroud endeavors to make this experience as successful as possible, especially for “hometown heroes.” Her community-mindedness also extends beyond the salesroom as she intentionally invests in worthwhile philanthropic causes and her personal relationships.
Estate Professional April Stroud Committed to Building a Better Community
“Being able to help so many different people with buying and selling is such a rewarding feeling. I pride myself in being able to provide for my clients based on their needs,” said April Stroud, a Lexington real estate professional who works with The Real Estate Brokerage company, a local independent brokerage established in 2008.
“I love South Carolina and enjoy helping others move from different areas of South Carolina and those from out of state,” she added. “It is exciting to show clients different areas they have never been to and share with them all that South Carolina offers.”
Whether assisting clients in the larger municipalities of Columbia or Lexington, or the smaller enclaves in and around the greater Midlands area, “I work where I am needed,” said Stroud.
A South Carolina native herself, Stroud was born and bred in Lexington County in the town of Gilbert. During high school, she attended the Lexington Technology Center where she was first introduced to the potential opportunities of her current profession. “I took marketing and business management courses,” she recalled. “I shadowed a local real estate company and loved it.”
by
After continuing her business and marketing education at Midlands Technical College, Stroud said that her “plans changed, and I went in a different direction and worked in healthcare for many years.” During that time, she also married her husband, Joey, moved out of state, and became a mother to twin boys, Ethan and Ryan.
“Once my twins were born in 2010, I was a stay-at-home mom,” she said. “It didn’t take long for me to realize I needed an outlet outside of the home. I decided to join a direct sales company, Thirty-One—I loved everything about their vision and mission which is based on Proverbs 31.”
Eventually, the Stroud family decided to return to her home state of South Carolina. As they settled in, Stroud considered the
next steps in her future career path. “That was when I decided to leap into real estate and haven’t looked back,” she said.
“I became licensed in 2016 and started
her boys to work-related errands such as listing appointments, showing inspections, posting signs, dropping off flyers, and attending closings.
“I treat my clients how I would want to be treated, and as a result, My business continues to grow year by year.”
from the ground up,” Stroud recalled. “It was a very challenging profession to get into, especially with four-year-old twins.”
Because her husband often traveled out of town with his job, Stroud would bring along
The diligence and conscientiousness she initiated in those early days have consistently been the adopted standard throughout her real estate career. “I treat my clients how I would want to be treated,” she said, and as a result, “My business continues to grow year by year.”
Apparently, Stroud’s dependability is evident to those in the community because between 2020 and 2024, she was voted the “Best Real Estate Agent of Lexington by the amazing readers of Lexington Life Magazine, clients, family, and friends” and has also been nominated for the 2025 award.
In her role as agent with The Real Estate Brokerage, “I sell residential homes and vacant land. I have connections on the commercial side if someone needs assistance. I have experience with home builders as well,” Stroud explained. “I also love being referred to by out-of-state agents.”
Her company’s “Hero Reward Program” is another unique offering that Stroud extends to qualifying buyer clients. As a special thank you to the “hometown heroes” of the community, this program strives to help these buyers, specifically, healthcare workers, active military veterans, first responders, law enforcement, and teachers, save as much equity as possible when they are selling.
Although “all sellers are different,” said Stroud, “They all motivate me and challenge me at the same time.”
“It can be a very stressful time for my clients,” she shared, “but I will do everything I can to make it a smooth process for them. I want it to be enjoyable at the end of the day when they have closed and on to their next chapter.”
While attentively addressing her cli-
ents’ needs, Stroud also invests her energies in other fulfilling activities in the local region and throughout the state. “It fills my cup when I can provide my time to different local organizations in need,” she said.
For example, “I am part of the Junior League of Columbia, and we are community-service focused,” she explained. “I also love to be able to attend different fundraisers benefiting Lighthouse for Life, Camp Cole, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Make-A-Wish, Special
Olympics, and Ezekiel Ministries.”
Correspondingly, Stroud prioritizes relationships within her personal life as well and enjoys spending time with family and friends by traveling, going to concerts, and attending sporting events.
These days, her twin boys are more likely to be found playing baseball or fishing instead of helping mom around town and in the office, so Stroud has recruited a replacement sidekick—a ten-pound powderpuff Morkie named “Cash.” This spunky pup,
a crossbreed between a Maltese and Yorkshire terrier, keeps Stroud company while she achieves her real estate responsibilities.
“My future plan, moving forward in real estate,” she concluded, “is to continue offering amazing service to all my clients and to be dedicated to their needs and create a happy balance of work and personal life.” n
by Tom Poland
ne treat I loved as a kid were candy canes on a Christmas tree. Striped red and white, they stood out against the green boughs and the menthol-like taste felt cool. Hey, maybe like a taste of snow? One thing’s for sure. Candy canes are here to stay. We see candy canes as small town streetlight decorations and driveway lights come Christmas. I’m always glad to see them on Christmas trees. So, what is the candy cane’s connection with Christmas? Well, do some googling and you’ll find stories about the symbolism of the J-shaped canes, but nothing is ever as it seems. Myths swirl around the famed redand-white confectioner’s artistry.
One story goes that the candy cane’s origin hearkens back to the white candy sticks of the early 1400s. More than 200 years later in Germany, the white sticks were due for a change. In 1670, the Cologne Cathedral staged a living nativity scene. Then, as now, kids were a handful and they were giving the choirmaster a hard time, drowning out the music with chatter. He needed to quiet them down. The children won’t be as noisy if they’ve got candy sticks in their mouths he thought. Even better, here’s a chance to teach them about the nativity. He got a local candy maker to make candy sticks shaped like shepherd’s staffs. Success!
The choirmaster’s idea spread. Not only did candy canes help educate children about the nativity, but their shape made them easy to hang on Christmas trees. (Candles were also hung on trees back then. Feeling nostalgic? Put candles on your tree but try explaining that to your insurance agent if the worst comes to pass.) I found other takes on the popular red-and-white candy canes. The white stripe symbolizes the purity of Christmas; the red stripe represents the shedding of blood by Jesus. The cane itself is an upside-down “J” standing for Jesus.
So, now we know how candy canes came to be so popular
at Christmas. Well, no, we don’t. Hold on to your reindeers. I went to Snopes, the website that shoots down rumors and myths. Grinch-like Snopes says the candy cane’s connection to symbols of Christianity is false. Said Snopes, “The peppermint-flavored, red-and-white-striped sugary candy cane can be found everywhere at Christmastime. It’s as much an ornament as it is a confection, and people munch these treats and decorate with them, scarcely giving a thought to just where candy canes came from in the first place.”
Snopes said the closest a religious connection comes took place in 1919 when Bob McCormack began making candy canes in Albany, Georgia. By the middle of the century, his company had become one of the world’s leading candy cane producers. Still, making peppermint sticks into J-shaped canes required a lot of manual labor so only a small quantity could be made. McCormack’s brother-in-law, a Catholic priest named Gregory Harding Keller, invented the Keller Machine. It automated the process of turning straight candy sticks into J-shaped candy canes. There’s your religious tie-in … kind of.
Snopes went on to say that claims concerning candy canes’ Christian symbolism spread as religious leaders assured congregations the stories behind candy canes were in fact the truth. Several richly illustrated books even tell the “true story” of the candy cane’s origins. Ebenezer-like Snopes closes with this downer. “This is charming folklore, but one should not lose sight of the fact that such stories of the candy cane’s origins are, like Santa Claus, myths and not ‘true stories.’ ”
We used to say, “It’s true. I saw it in the newspaper.” Well, the times change and now the truth is you just can’t be sure of anything anymore. Believe what you want to believe. A sweet story is a good story. n
Finding purpose through service
by Chesson Merritt
In an instant, Lee Ann Alexander went from celebrating 30 years of marriage with her husband, Ron Alexander, to becoming a widow and learning to navigate life without him.
Her story begins nearly nine and a half years ago on May 28, 2015, on an idyllic beach in Florida where she and Ron were joyfully honoring three decades of married life. While she stayed in their room for a leisurely morning sipping coffee, Ron headed out to the ocean with his backpack and favorite book. She ventured down to the beach later in the day to join him and instead was met with a crowd that had gathered along the shore. Officials informed her that her husband had been caught in a riptide and was on his way to the hospital.
“I was whisked away to the hospital and got the news that I was dreading,” Alexander said. “The EMTs had worked and worked on him, but he had not recovered and was gone. Just like that, I went from celebrating 30 years with my husband to a new status of being a widow.”
Alexander went through a period of shock and numbness that was filled with funeral preparations, visitors, meals, cards, and flowers. Once all of the well-wishes and visits from those who mourned and deeply grieved Ron had gone, she faced a stark reality.
“It seemed as though I had come to the
end of my own resources,” Alexander recalled. “Being a person of faith, I began to turn towards God in a way that was raw and open. I found myself journaling every day, reading a wide variety of spiritual books, listening to spiritual podcasts, and creating art.”
With a career that included being an elementary school music teacher, teaching private piano lessons, and 25 years as the Director of Children’s Ministry, church pianist, and Children’s Music Director at Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church, Alexander was no stranger to creative thinking.
“Being a musician, I have always been creative, but never before had I really enjoyed creating visual art. I found that time would stand still when I was creating art, and it became therapy for me. The gift of creating and writing in a journal every day became a daily practice, and I began to combine journaling with art. Over time, I began teaching classes around the area and even at the church.”
there became one of her new callings.
“The mission trip to Kenya was life-changing,” Alexander said. “It reinforced that I had a love for the people of Africa. I became active in a ministry that worked with the country of South Sudan. One of the biggest needs there is the need for education. A very small percentage of children attend school because it is hard to find and pay teachers. It is even more rare for girls to obtain an education. After meeting some bright and deserving young people, I began sponsoring several students in their education journey.”
Alexander began working at the Farmhouse Market and Antiques in Lexington by opening up her own booth there. It was work she cherished as she made an abundance of new friends along with discovering a talent for finding beautiful treasures to clean up and resell in her booth. It didn’t take long before she decided to connect her booth sales with her passion for helping students in South Sudan.
“I felt it was my task to empty myself into my community and the world. The idea of just leaving it all on the field gave me purpose and even excitement.”
Not long after, Alexander decided to retire from her role at Saxe Gotha, marking the beginning of yet another new chapter in her life. Retirement, coupled with the profound loss of her husband, left everything feeling different—almost as if the world had shifted beneath her. Seeking clarity and peace, she embarked on a silent retreat at Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner, SC. It was there, in the tranquil solitude of the abbey, that she found a sense of renewal. The retreat provided her with a quiet space to reflect deeply, opening her eyes to the possibilities of what her future could hold and the path she was ready to follow.
“I felt this one idea that continued to bubble up over and over,” Alexander shared. “I felt it was my task to empty myself into my community and the world. The idea of just leaving it all on the field gave me purpose and even excitement.”
She reflected back on a time that she had visited Kenya on a mission trip after Ron’s death. What she saw and witnessed
“It just dawned on me one day that the profits I made at the shop would be perfect to use for my sponsorship of the students,” Alexander said. “I began to tell friends about it and slowly, I began receiving donations of items that I could use. The donations boosted the profits that I was making, enabling me to sponsor more students. As of now, I have seven students that I sponsor along with their families. Several of these students are working on college degrees, a few are in secondary levels, and two are in primary levels.”
Students who receive sponsorship are not only encouraged to continue their education through to the college level but they are also inspired to return to their villages, where they can begin to make a profound and lasting impact. It’s the hopeful beginning of a journey to create meaningful change within the very community that shaped them, sparking inspiration in the hearts of other young children. Alexander invites everyone she knows and meets to join in this global
“It just dawned on me one day that the profits I made at the shop would be perfect to use for my sponsorship of the students”
movement of transformation. By donating antiques, vintage treasures, dishes, furniture, art, collectibles, and more to her booth, they can help raise crucial funds to sponsor even more students, enabling them to pursue their education and, in turn, give back to their communities.
Alexander’s servant’s heart is hard at work in our Lexington community, too. She volunteers on a regular basis with Lexington Extended Care where she teaches art journaling with the residents there. Her Bernedoodle, Scout, goes along with her as she visits residents in the memory care unit and the Carol Campbell Center.
“I have also become a board member for Mental Health America of South Carolina,” Alexander said. “This nonprof-
it works with folks who are dealing with mental illness and need support. They provide a variety of housing options for the people who need it, and they also offer day centers that include classes and educational opportunities. I have made many new friends and have seen the wonderful work that Mental Health America is doing in our community and our state.”
Beyond her local missions and ones a world away, Alexander also has found space in her heart for service throughout the United States, too.
“One thing that I have learned over the past few years is by shortening the distance between me and those who are very different from me, it removes any worries, fears, and stereotypes,” Alexander said.
“Proximity to others has been the key for me as I step into new areas and even unchartered waters.”
“I have learned about an entirely different world,” Alexander said. “Prisons, clemency, executions, case law, abolitionists around the United States, appeals processes, methods used for the death penalty, and so much more. I now have a new friend on death row. I have learned that he is remorseful and striving to be the best person he can be even in the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. I am no longer afraid of coming into proximity with someone that many would simply write off as a monster. I have learned so much from my friend about God’s love and the fact that his image is in every human being.”
From Lexington to Oklahoma, and even as far as South Sudan, Alexander has transformed her life in the wake of her husband’s passing, repurposing her journey in ways she never imagined. What began as a period of deep loss has blossomed into a profound calling—a renewed sense of meaning and a greater purpose found in selflessly serving others. Each step she takes now is not just a step forward, but a testament to her resilience and dedication to making the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.
“I have chosen to pour myself out in a variety of ways,” Alexander said. “I have learned that one can’t help everyone and sometimes you need to focus on a few things that are important to you. I love life and love the freedom that comes with emptying out into the world day by day. God is good and He is working all around us. Positive change and working for the common good is possible. It happens one small action at a time!”
Interested in learning more? Connect with Lee Ann at alexfam@sc.rr.com. n
The Downing Group
Best Accounting Firm
Deese & Company
Dooley & Company
JB Merritt & Associates
Best Aesthetic Practice
Cardinal Wellness and Aesthetics
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
SC My Care
Best Aesthetic Spa
About You Aesthetics
Lexington Aesthetics Medical Spa
Orion Skin Studio
Best Afterschool Program
First Baptist of Lexington
Northside Baptist Church
Pisgah Child Development
Best Allergist
Allergy Partners of the Midlands
CENTA ENT & Allergy
Palmetto ENT & Allergy
Best Alterations
Jackie Lynn Tailoring
Kimmy’s Alteration Shop
Zebra Cleaners
Best Ambulance Service (Private)
First Priority Medical Transport
For Life Medical Transport
MedTrust Medical Transport
Best Apartment Complex
Cedarcrest Village Apartments
Lullwater at Saluda Pointe
York Woods at Lake Murray
Best Asian Restaurant
Antai Asian Dining
Ganbei Japanese
Sukiya Japanese
Best Assisted Living Facility
Oakleaf Village of Lexington
The Village at Southlake
Wellmore of Lexington
Best Attorney
Amy Cofield Law
Bland Richter
McCutchen McLean
Best Attorney: Criminal Defense
Burn Law Firm
Kinard Law Group
Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr.
Best Attorney: Family Law
Debra Russell Law
Jewitte Dooley Law
The Farley Law Firm
Best Attorney: Litigation
Bland Richter
Caskey Law Firm
Morgan, Slaughter & Haltiwanger
Best Attorney: Personal Injury
Bland Richter
Johnson + Johnson
Lyle Law Firm
Best Attorney:
Probate/Estate Attorney
Blair Cato Pickren Casterline
McCutchen McLean
Stratton & Reynolds
Best Attorney: Real Estate
Amy Cofield Law
McCutchen McLean
The Templeton Law Firm
Best Attorney: Workers Comp
Amy Cofield Law
Salley Law Firm
Smith & Jones Law
Best Audiologist
Digital Hearing Outlet
Lake Murray Hearing
Midland Hearing Associates
Best Auto Body Shop
Caliber Collision
Ellison Collision & Customs
Gilbert Paint & Body
Best Auto Performance
Honeycutt Racing Engines
North Lake Auto Repair
Rev Automotive
Best Auto Repair Shop: Domestic
Abbott’s Auto Care & Tire
Christian Brothers Automotive
Old School Automotive & Tire
Best Auto Repair Shop: Foreign
B&T Automotive
Das Autohaus
German Autowerks
Best Auto Service Department Dealership
Dick Smith Nissan
Herndon Chevrolet
Midlands Honda
Best Bank Ameris Bank
First Community Bank
First Reliance Bank
Best Barber Shop
Lexington Barber Shop
Southern Cuts Barber Shop
Taylor Made Barbering Co.
Best BBQ Restaurant
Hudson’s Smokehouse
Maurice’s Piggy Park
Willie Jewell’s Bar-B-Q
Best Breakfast
Bubba’s Biscuits
Eggs Up Grill
O’Hara’s Bakery
Best Buffet
Carolina Buffett
Hudson’s Smokehouse
Shealy’s Bar-B-Que
Best Burger
O’Hara’s Public House
RFs Grill
Twisted Roots
Best Car Wash
Hurricane Express Wash
Modwash
Take 5 Car Wash
Best Carpet Store
Carpet One Floor & Home
Columbia Floor Source
Floor Boys
Best Catering Company
Carolina Smoke n Fire
Hudson’s Classic Catering
Maurice’s Event Catering
Best Cell Phone/Tablet Repair
CPR Cellphone Repair
Smart Phone Medic
UBreakiFix
Best Charter School
American Leadership Academy
Gray Collegiate Academy
SC Whitmore School
Best Chiropractor
Bigbie Chiropractic
Collaborative Healthcare
Old Mill Chiropractic
Best Coin or Collectible Dealer
Gilbert Coin & Collectible
Golden Eagle Precious Metals
Palmetto Cards
Best College for Working Adults
Midlands Technical College
Strayer University
USC Palmetto College
Best Commercial Contractor
Carolina Gold Construction
Hill Construction Company
Lyn-Rich Contracting Co.
Best Commercial Real Estate Agency
Century 21 803 Realty
RE/MAX Purpose Driven
The Real Estate Company
Best Concierge Medicine
Living Well Family Medicine
SC My Care
Sunset Primary Care
Best Consignment Shop
High Class Consignments
Magnolia Boutique & Resale
Retail Resale by April
Best Cosmetic Dentist
Palmetto Dental Associates
Southern Shores Dental
West Columbia Dental
Best Cosmetology School
Lexington Technology Center
The Paul Mitchell School
Southeastern Esthetics Institute
Best Counseling/Therapy
Capital City Therapy
Jill Smith & Associates
Moonbug Pediatric Therapy
Best CPA
Deese & Company
Dooley & Company
Rish & Enzastiga
Best Credit Union
Founders Federal
Palmetto Citizens
SC State Credit Union
Best Custom Home Builder
Conquest Homes
Epic Homes
Young’s Contracting
Best Damage Restoration Services
Belfor Property Restoration
Rumsey Construction & Restoration
Rytec Restoration of the Midlands
Best Dance Company
South Carolina Dance Company
Stepping Out Dance Studio
Best Day Spa
Lexington Aesthetics Medical Spa
Orion Skin Studio
The Essential Face
Best Daycare
Big Blue Marble Lexington
Creative Beginnings
Northside Baptist Church
Best Dentist: Adult
Joel Price Dentistry
Robinson Dental
Sherry Powell Dentistry
Best Dentist: Kids
Palmetto Smiles
Singh and Leite
Sunset Children’s
Best Dermatologist
Advanced Dermatology
Columbia Skin Clinic
Palmetto Dermatology
Best Dessert
Flight Deck Restaurant
O’Hara’s Bakery Café
Vampire Penguin
Best Discount Store
Costless Outlet
Dollar Tree
Five Below
Best Dog Walker
Aunt Caffey’s Furbaby Care
Kelly’s Pet Services
Lexington Dog Walk
Best Dry Cleaner
Kleen Kare
Lexington Dry Cleaning
Tripp’s Fine Cleaners
Best Engineering Firm
Mead & Hunt
HB Engineering
Timmerman Engineering
Best Electrician
Grow Electric
Rytec Electric
Vince & Son Electrical
Best Event Venue
Lexington Amphitheatre
Southern Oaks
Twelve Oak Estate
Best Exterminator
Modern Exterminating
Pest Management Systems
Premier Pest Control
Best Facial
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Palmetto Roots Salon
The Essential Face
Best Family Entertainment
A&A Rockshop
Big Air Trampoline
Croft Celebrations
Best Fast Food
Chick-fil-A
Sully’s Steamers
Zaxby’s
Best Fence Company
Elite Fencing
Palmetto Pros
Ryan Brewer Enterprises
Best Fitness Center
Club Pilates Lexington HOTWORX
ISI Elite Training
Best Florist
Lexington Florist
Storey’s Florist
Tim’s Touch
Best Foot Store
Fleet Feet
Foot Savi Shoes
The Good Feet Store
Best Funeral Home
Barr-Price Funeral Home
Caughman-Harman
Thompson Funeral Homes
Best Furniture Store
Economy Furniture Company
La-Z-Boy Home Furnishings
Scott’s Furniture Company
Best Garden Center
B.B. Barns
Botanica Nursery & Landscape
Wingard’s Market
Best Gastroenterologist
Columbia Gastroenterologist
Consultants in Gastroenterology
Best Glass Store
Absolute Glass
Central Glass
Century Glass
Best Golf Cart Dealer
Palmetto Kustom Kartz
Tidewater Carts
Topline Carts
Best Golf Course
Country Club of Lexington
Golden Hills Golf & Country Club
Solina Golf Club
Best Greek Restaurant
Bellis House of Pizza
Grecian Gardens
Mediterranean Café
Best Group Fitness Studio
ISI Elite Training
Orangetheory Fitness
WRKT Lexington
Best Gun and Ammunition Store
JCs Outdoors
Kilo Charlie Shooting Range
Shooters Choice
Best Gym
Bodyshop Athletics
Club Pilates Lexington 9Round Fitness
Best Hair Salon: Adults
Milk & Honey Fine Salon
Salon M
Steel Magnolia’s Salon
Best Hair Salon: Kids
Salon 1704
Sharkey’s Cuts For Kids
Snip-its Haircuts for Kids
Best Hairstylist
Angela Greco, Studio 192
Ashton Donnelly, Avenue Salon
Blythe Crisp, Salon 1704
Best Handyman
Dean & Done
Mr. Handy
Punch List Pros
Best Happy Hour
Barrios Tacos
O’Hara’s Public House
Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
Best Hardware Store
Ace Hardware Three Fountains
Bob’s Ace Hardware
McCoy Ace Hardware
Best Healthy Eating Restaurant
Clean Eatz
Kristin’s Kitchen
Poke Bros.
Best Heart Doctor
Dr. Amy Epps, LMC
Dr. Brandon Drafts, LMC
Dr. Garrison Morgan, MUSC
Best Heating and Air Company
All American Heating & Air
Brian’s Heating & Air
Palmetto Air Conditioning
Best Home Builder
Conquest Homes
Great Southern Homes
Mungo Homes
Best Home Health
Assisting Hands Home Care
Hands and Hearts Home Care
Right at Home
Best Hospice Care
Amedisys Home Health Care
Medical Services of America
Best Hospital System
Lexington Medical Center
Medical University of South Carolina
Prisma Health
Best Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites
Marriott’s TownePlace Suites
Wingate by Wyndham
Best Ice Cream Shop
Cold Stone Creamery
Lick’s Ice Cream
Sweet Frog Frozen Yogurt
Best Internal Medicine
Bledsoe Family Medicine
Living Well Family Medicine
SC My Care
Best Insurance Agent
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
Brent Herring, Herring Ins.
Misty Stathos, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Auto
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
Misty Stathos, State Farm Ins.
Robbie Streett, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Health
Jeff Howle, HealthMarkets Ins.
Mauldin Insurance
Lee Smith, LJS Benefit Consultants
Best Insurance: Homeowner
Herring Insurance Services
Jen Wilkes, State Farm Ins.
Patrick Williams, Williams Ins.
Best Insurance: Life
Farm Bureau Insurance
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
The Scott Agency
Best Interior Design
Adorn Interiors
Jeff Judy Interiors
Paige Butler Interior Styling
Best Internet Service Provider
Carolina Connect
Comporium
Spectrum
Best Investment Firm
Cornerstone Financial Management
Crescent Financial Group
Limehouse Financial
Best Irrigation
Elite Lawn & Landscape
First Priority Landscape
The Lawn Smith
Best Italian Restaurant
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Deluccas Italian Grill
Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
Best Jewelry Store
The Chapman Company
Jeweler’s Studio
Moseley’s Diamond Showcase
Best Karate/Martial Arts Studio
Geneva Karate
Gilbert Martial Arts Studio
Vitali Family Karate
Best Kid Friendly Restaurant
Boho Pizza and Brew
Diablo’s Southwest Grill
Flight Deck Restaurant
Best Landscaping Company
First Priority Landscape
Hoppes Lawn Care
Smartyard Irrigation
Best Landscaping Supply
Barthelemy
Pinestraw Place
W.P. Law
Best Learning Center
Brain Balance of Lexington
Kumon Math & Reading Center
Mathnasium
Best Manicure/Pedicure
Beautiful Nails
KR Nails
OMG Nails
Best Manufactured Housing Company
Clayton Homes
Great Southern Homes
Lexington Discount Homes
Best Marina
Jakes Landing
Rusty Anchor
Southshore Marina
Best Massage
Better Bodies Massage
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Hand & Stone Massage
Best Mattress Store
Best Mattress
Marty Rae’s of Lexington
Michaelis Mattress
Best Meat Store
Caughman’s Meats
Four Oaks Farm Country Store
Ole Timey Meat Market
Best Medical Imaging
American Health Imaging
Lexington Radiology Associates
Palmetto Imaging
Best Home Builder
Conquest Homes
Great Southern Homes
Mungo Homes
Best Home Health
Assisting Hands Home Care
Hands and Hearts Home Care
Right at Home
Best Hospice Care
Amedisys Home Health Care
Medical Services of America
Best Hospital System
Lexington Medical Center
Medical University of South Carolina
Prisma Health
Best Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites
Marriott’s TownePlace Suites
Wingate by Wyndham
Best Ice Cream Shop
Cold Stone Creamery
Lick’s Ice Cream
Sweet Frog Frozen Yogurt
Best Internal Medicine
Bledsoe Family Medicine
Living Well Family Medicine
SC My Care
Best Insurance Agent
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
Brent Herring, Herring Ins.
Misty Stathos, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Auto
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
Misty Stathos, State Farm Ins.
Robbie Streett, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Health
Jeff Howle, HealthMarkets Ins.
Mauldin Insurance
Lee Smith, LJS Benefit Consultants
Best Insurance: Homeowner
Herring Insurance Services
Jen Wilkes, State Farm Ins.
Patrick Williams, Williams Ins.
Best Insurance: Life
Farm Bureau Insurance
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
The Scott Agency
Best Interior Design
Adorn Interiors
Jeff Judy Interiors
Paige Butler Interior Styling
Best Internet Service Provider
Carolina Connect
Comporium
Spectrum
Best Investment Firm
Cornerstone Financial Management
Crescent Financial Group
Limehouse Financial
Best Irrigation
Elite Lawn & Landscape
First Priority Landscape
The Lawn Smith
Best Italian Restaurant
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Deluccas Italian Grill
Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
Best Jewelry Store
The Chapman Company
Jeweler’s Studio
Moseley’s Diamond Showcase
Best Karate/Martial Arts Studio
Geneva Karate
Gilbert Martial Arts Studio
Vitali Family Karate
Best Kid Friendly Restaurant
Boho Pizza and Brew
Diablo’s Southwest Grill
Flight Deck Restaurant
Best Landscaping Company
First Priority Landscape
Hoppes Lawn Care
Smartyard Irrigation
Best Landscaping Supply
Barthelemy
Pinestraw Place
W.P. Law
Best Learning Center
Brain Balance of Lexington
Kumon Math & Reading Center
Mathnasium
Best Manicure/Pedicure
Beautiful Nails
KR Nails
OMG Nails
Best Manufactured Housing Company
Clayton Homes
Great Southern Homes
Lexington Discount Homes
Best Marina
Jakes Landing
Rusty Anchor
Southshore Marina
Best Massage
Better Bodies Massage
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Hand & Stone Massage
Best Mattress Store
Best Mattress
Marty Rae’s of Lexington
Michaelis Mattress
Best Meat Store
Caughman’s Meats
Four Oaks Farm Country Store
Ole Timey Meat Market
Best Medical Imaging
American Health Imaging
Lexington Radiology Associates
Palmetto Imaging
Best Physical Therapy Practice
Drayer Physical Therapy Institute
Fyzical Therapy & Balance
Sigurd Center
Best Pizza
Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Nicky’s Pizzeria
Best Place to Buy a Boat
Cove2Coast Marine
Dynamic Marine & Motorsports
Mountain Top Marine
Best Place to Buy a Car: New BMW of Columbia
Herndon Chevrolet
Jim Hudson Ford
Best Place to Buy a Car: Used
Carolina Motors 378
Rock & Roll Auto Sales
Sunset Motors of Lexington
Best Place to Buy a Pool
Cannonball Pools
Pete Alewine Pools & Spa
S&S Pools
Best Place to Buy a Prom Dress
Dazzles Pageant & Prom Apparel
Saluda Rose Boutique
Tyler Rose Pageant & Prom
Best Place to Buy an RV
Blue Compass RV
Camping World
Best Place to Buy Bath or Kitchen Fixtures
Bath and Bronze
Gateway Supply Co.
Stroud Supply
Best Place to Buy Eyeglasses
2020 Vision
Envision Family EyeCare
Vision Therapy Institute
Best Place to Buy Hardwood
Floors
Columbia Floor Source
Floor Boys
Southern Floors & Design
Best Place to Buy
Organic Products
14 Carrot Whole Foods
Clean Juice
Garner’s Natural Life
Best Place to Buy
Outdoor Furniture
Carolina Pottery
Costless Outlet
Polo’s Outdoor Furniture
Best Place to Buy Paint e.d.’s Paint & Decorating
Lexington Paint & Flooring
Sherwin-Williams Paint Store
Best Place to Buy Propane
Amerigas Propane
Barns Oil & Propane
Palmetto Propane, Fuels, & Ice
Best Place to Buy Tires
Mavis Tires & Brakes
Old School Automotive & Tire
Pope Davis Tire & Automotive
Best Place to Buy Windows
Pella Window & Doors of Irmo
RedBird Windows and Doors
Stroud Supply
Best Place to Sell Gold
Gilbert Coin & Collectible
Golden Eagle Precious Metals
SC Gold & Pawn
Best Place to Work
Assisting Hands Home Care
Lexington Medical Center
Michelin Tires
Best Plastic Surgeon
Donen David
Rich & Humenansky
Sono Bello Columbia
Best Plumber
Brasington Plumbing
Delta Plumbing
Kay Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
Best Pressure
Washing Company
Mathias Pressure Washing
Not Your Average Joe’s
Super Soakers Pressure Washing
Best Private School
Ben Lippen School
Heathwood Hall
Northside Christian Academy
Best Produce Farm
Four Oaks Farm Country Store
WP Rawl
Wayne P Taylor Family Farms
Best Property Management Company
Rogers Property Management
Scott Properties
Southern Dreams Realty
Best Real Estate Agent: Commercial
Brent Downing, The Downing Group
Dustin Johns, The Real Estate Company
Jeff Woodruff, RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Best Real Estate Agent: Residential
April Stroud, The Real Estate Company
Danielle Burke, RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Deepa Lal, Indigo Real Estate
Best Physical Therapy Practice
Drayer Physical Therapy Institute
Fyzical Therapy & Balance
Sigurd Center
Best Pizza
Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Nicky’s Pizzeria
Best Place to Buy a Boat
Cove2Coast Marine
Dynamic Marine & Motorsports
Mountain Top Marine
Best Place to Buy a Car: New BMW of Columbia
Herndon Chevrolet
Jim Hudson Ford
Best Place to Buy a Car: Used
Carolina Motors 378
Rock & Roll Auto Sales
Sunset Motors of Lexington
Best Place to Buy a Pool
Cannonball Pools
Pete Alewine Pools & Spa
S&S Pools
Best Place to Buy a Prom Dress
Dazzles Pageant & Prom Apparel
Saluda Rose Boutique
Tyler Rose Pageant & Prom
Best Place to Buy an RV
Blue Compass RV
Camping World
Best Place to Buy Bath or Kitchen Fixtures
Bath and Bronze
Gateway Supply Co.
Stroud Supply
Best Place to Buy Eyeglasses
2020 Vision
Envision Family EyeCare
Vision Therapy Institute
Best Place to Buy Hardwood
Floors
Columbia Floor Source
Floor Boys
Southern Floors & Design
Best Place to Buy
Organic Products
14 Carrot Whole Foods
Clean Juice
Garner’s Natural Life
Best Place to Buy
Outdoor Furniture
Carolina Pottery
Costless Outlet
Polo’s Outdoor Furniture
Best Place to Buy Paint e.d.’s Paint & Decorating
Lexington Paint & Flooring
Sherwin-Williams Paint Store
Best Place to Buy Propane
Amerigas Propane
Barns Oil & Propane
Palmetto Propane, Fuels, & Ice
Best Place to Buy Tires
Mavis Tires & Brakes
Old School Automotive & Tire
Pope Davis Tire & Automotive
Best Place to Buy Windows
Pella Window & Doors of Irmo
RedBird Windows and Doors
Stroud Supply
Best Place to Sell Gold
Gilbert Coin & Collectible
Golden Eagle Precious Metals
SC Gold & Pawn
Best Place to Work
Best Plastic Surgeon
Donen David
Rich & Humenansky
Sono Bello Columbia
Best Plumber
Brasington Plumbing
Delta Plumbing
Kay Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
Best Pressure
Washing Company
Mathias Pressure Washing
Not Your Average Joe’s
Super Soakers Pressure Washing
Best Private School
Ben Lippen School
Heathwood Hall
Northside Christian Academy
Best Produce Farm
Four Oaks Farm Country Store
Wayne P Taylor Family Farms
Best Property Management Company
Rogers Property Management
Scott Properties
Southern Dreams Realty
Best Real Estate Agent: Commercial
Brent Downing, The Downing Group
Dustin Johns, The Real Estate Company
Jeff Woodruff, RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Best Real Estate Agent: Residential
April Stroud, The Real Estate Company
Danielle Burke, RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Deepa Lal, Indigo Real Estate
Best Wedding Venue
Southern Oaks
Tin Roof Farms
Twelve Oak Estate
Best Weight Loss Program
Bigbie Chiropractic
Cardinal Wellness
SC My Care
Best Wigs/Hair Pieces
Becky’s Place Boutique LMC
Merle Norman Chapin
Saluda Rose Boutique
Best Women’s Clothing Store
The Kindred Boutique
Saluda Rose Boutique
Tulip Boutique
Best Women’s Gym
Burn Boot Camp
StrongHER
WRKT Lexington
Best
Branham
Stargazing
The darkest skies can reveal the brightest stars
by Betsey Guizor photos by Hap Griffin and John Quinn
The excitement over the far reaches of the aurora borealis in 2024 to the southern United States has more people wondering what else is up there in the sky.
Thanks to two local observatories and an active astronomy club in the Midlands, you can learn the joys of stargazing.
And in the Midlands, there are several places for you to see stars and planets from your back yard.
The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina planetarium at the S.C. State Museum is celebrating its 10th year of operation after its 55-foot dome was placed atop the renovated textile building on Gervais Street.
Families love the planetarium’s regular laser light shows and other immersive experiences, but its staff is usually working hard to find celestial places in the universe and sharing their findings with scores of schoolchildren and enthusiasts.
Áróra is a special show highlighting the aurora borealis in a show through February 28, 2025.
The dome will again be lit up for the holidays, beginning with a
lighting ceremony on Thursday, December 5.
The Melton Memorial Observatory at the University of South Carolina also offers the public regular viewings of the sky, weather permitting, on Monday evenings between 8-10 pm.
Melton was built near Russell House in 1928, named after USC’s president Dr. William Davis Melton, with money donated by his friend, Edwin Seibels. Most of the original telescope is operational, with additions over the years.
Or hang out with folks at the Midlands Astronomy Club, Inc., who meet monthly to stargaze, exchange findings, and talk about the latest technology in telescopes.
Jack Dunn of Cayce, vice president of the club, says you don’t need expensive equipment or a lot of knowledge to start stargazing. The club meets the first Tuesday of the month at the Prisma Medical Park in Columbia. Members also have a monthly outdoor viewing and schedule special sessions.
A pair of binoculars can show you a lot in the sky, said Dunn, a
retired planetarium director who now consults around the world. And the price of an electronic telescope — which has greatly advanced the way we can see the skies — gets more affordable each year. These are also called smart telescopes because they can be trained on different parts of the sky using an app. Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities can let you view images of the skies through a phone. It can be used to see sunspots or closeups of the moon.
“If you are in town, you can see planets and meteors and comets, deep sky objects,” he said of the e-telescopes. Dunn recommends the Seestar line of e-telescopes as a start.
Where to see the dark skies in Lexington County
Several members of the Midlands Astronomy Club have private land in which to stargaze. But Dunn suggests that dark skies spots can be found on the edges of Lake Murray and Dreher Island State Park. “Get into an area with a big open sky,” with a lack of trees and a clear view of the horizon.
There are some places at Congaree National Park: Longleaf Camp-
ground and another site near the Cedar Creek Canoe Launch.
He also suggested just driving out to the edges of the county eastward.
The interactive sky chart at skyandtelescope.org allows you to plug in your zip code, then gives you a sample of where to look in the sky. Some phone apps also can help you find constellations just by pointing it at the night sky.
What to look for in December
During December 21-22, the Ursid Meteor shower produces 5-10 meteors an hour. The best viewing is expected after midnight from a dark location away from city lights and can be found near the constellation Ursa.
On December 25, the planet Mercury will be at its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky, viewable in the low eastern sky just before sunrise.
On December 30, there will be a new moon, meaning that it will not be visible in the night sky, making it easier to see the night sky. n
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DIY Christmas Gift Guide: Bringing Festive Cheer with Handmade
Gifts
by Hailey McCarron
The holiday season is about spreading joy and giving, and what better way to do that than with personalized, handmade gifts? Crafting your own presents adds a unique touch that store-bought items can’t match. This gift guide is a fun and rewarding experience that is enjoyable for the whole family. Here is your ultimate guide to creating festive DIY Christmas gifts that will light up your loved ones’ hearts.
Personalized Photo Album
Capture and cherish shared moments by creating a personalized photo album. In an age where everything is digitalized, having physical copies of photos feels more precious than ever—tangible keepsakes that capture memories in a way screens simply cannot replace. Gather your favorite photos and purchase a blank photo album or scrapbook. You can even create a photo album with paper, a hole-punch, and ribbon. Decorate it with stickers, washi tape, and little notes. Add captions, write down memories, and include small mementos like ticket stubs or receipts. This heartfelt gift is perfect for reminiscing about good times.
Festive Cookie Jars
Nothing says Christmas like the smell of freshly baked cookies. Layer the dry ingredients for your favorite cookie recipe in a mason jar, creating a beautiful, striped effect. Attach a festive ribbon and a tag with the recipe and baking instructions. To make your homemade cookie jar extra special, decorate and personalize the jar with ribbon, paint, or glitter, adding unique touches that reflect the season or your style. This delicious gift is perfect for those who love holiday baking.
Hand-Painted Ornaments
Transform plain ornaments into personalized works of art. Use paint, glitter, and markers to decorate glass or wooden ornaments. Write the recipient’s name, add festive designs like snowflakes or holly, and sprinkle on some glitter for extra sparkle. These custom ornaments will be cherished keepsakes for years to come.
Sparkling Snow Globe
Create a winter wonderland in a jar with a homemade snow globe. You’ll need a clear jar, waterproof figurines, such as Christmas trees or snowmen, glitter, and glycerin. Glue the figurines to the inside of the jar lid, fill the jar with water, add a few drops of glycerin, and sprinkle in the glitter. Screw the lid on tightly, shake it up, and watch the magic happen. This enchanting gift is sure to bring a smile.
Christmas Crackers
Add some fun to your holiday celebrations with DIY Christmas crackers. You will need empty toilet paper rolls, festive wrapping paper, small gifts or candies, and cracker snaps (optional). Fill the rolls with the goodies, wrap them in the paper, and twist the ends. Decorate with ribbons and tags. Feel free to add your own personalized touch to decorate as well. These festive crackers are perfect for adding a pop of fun to your Christmas dinner.
Warm and Cozy Knits
If you are handy with knitting needles, consider making a scarf, hat, or pair of mittens. Choose soft, warm yarn in festive colors like red, green, or white. You can find holiday-themed patterns available online for all skill levels. If knitting isn’t your thing, make friendship bracelets or charm bracelets instead, adding colorful beads and charms for a fun, personalized touch. This cozy gift is not only practical but also shows the time and love you have put into making something special.
Hot Cocoa Mix
Create a delightful hot cocoa mix to warm up those chilly winter nights. Layer cocoa powder, sugar, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows in a mason jar. Decorate the jar with a festive ribbon and attach a tag with instructions for making the perfect cup of hot cocoa. Pair it with a cute holiday mug for an extra special touch. If you want to go the extra mile, paint the mug with a custom design, adding a unique and personal touch that makes it truly one-of-a-kind.
These festive DIY gifts are a wonderful way to show your loved ones how much you care. With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of holiday spirit, these DIY gifts are sure to bring joy and warmth to everyone on your list—handmade with love and wrapped in festive cheer. Happy crafting and Merry Christmas! n
spice OF LIFE
Holiday Charcuterie Boards
Candy Cane Board
mozzarella
tomatoes
basil leaves
balsamic glaze
olive oil
sea salt
toasted baguette
Alternate layering a slice of fresh mozzarella with a slice of tomato into a big candy cane shape. Place fresh basil leaves around the board and a small serving bowl with the balsamic glaze. Just before serving, drizzle the mozzarella and tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Serve with additional olive oil, sea salt, and toasted baguette slices.
Christmas Tree Board
semi-hard cheeses (gouda, cheddar, and havarti)
red grapes
marcona almonds
mini cucumbers
rosemary
salami
raspberries
candied ginger
honey
crackers
With some string, create an even triangle shape on the board, taping each corner to the board so it stays in place. Use one layer of crackers to create the first row in the tree at the bottom of the triangle. Then add sticks of cheese, and a row of purple grapes. Thinly slice mini cucumbers and create the next two rows. The next layer is marcona almonds. Then add two layers of raspberries and cubed cheese. Folded salami is the next layer, and then crackers to fill things in above. Top the tree with cheese cut into stars or snowflakes. Scatter candied ginger to add some sparkle, and wedge in stalks of fresh rosemary between some of the rows to create the look of a tree.
Wreath Board
Italian salami
brie
cheddar cheese
cranberry cheese
strawberries
grapes
pomegranate
cranberries
blueberries
pistachios
candied pecans
Ghirardelli peppermint squares
baked crackers
rosemary sprigs
On a circular shape board, start assembling the board by adding cheeses. Next, add the meats and then add the fruits. Fill the board in with nuts, chocolate, and crackers. Add the rosemary in the center to outline the wreath and to garnish the outside edges.
Hot Chocolate Board
crushed candy canes
chocolate chips
mini marshmallows
marshmallows
Optional additions:
Lindor truffles
Ghirardelli peppermint squares caramels
M&M’s
Milano cookies
chocolate dipped Oreos
caramel sauce
hot fudge sauce
cream filled wafers
Place three mini bowls on top of a wooden board. Fill each with smaller ingredients like crushed candy canes, chocolate chips, and mini marshmallows. Add larger marshmallows and optional additions to fill in spots on the board around the bowls.
Waffle Board
blueberry waffles
blueberries
bananas kiwis
grapes strawberries
blueberry syrup
granola
Nutella whipped cream yogurt
Prepare the blueberry waffles and wash and prepare the fruits. Prepare the toppings by placing them in bowls, then set them aside. Break the waffles into quarters and place them in a decorative pattern on the board. Next, add all of your prepared toppings sporadically around the waffles. Lastly, add the prepared fruits to fill the remaining empty spaces.
Dark Chocolate Fondue Board
Chocolate Fondue:
10 oz dark chocolate
¾ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp flaky sea salt
Serve with: graham crackers
cookies pretzels
fresh fruit marshmallows nuts
Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it into a large bowl. Microwave the heavy cream for 1-2 minutes or until hot to the touch but not boiling. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for about two minutes. Gently mix until the chocolate is melted, and the fondue is combined and smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and flaky sea salt and mix until combined. Transfer to a fondue pot and place on a board with all your chosen dippers.
legacy
A good friend told me about attending a funeral for a 92-year-old man. My friend said the only thing anyone said about the man’s life was that “he returned his phone calls.”
That’s not much of a eulogy.
I thought about the old story of the Wise Men. The facts are few. They came from the East. They’d studied the signs and knew about the birth of a King. They traveled far, following a star to present expensive gifts to a little baby in a manger.
My preacher believes they journeyed 750 miles from Babylon. He says they acted on Daniel’s prophecy passed down over the years. These men were powerful kingmakers. This explains why King Herod was “troubled” when they approached him asking about a new King.
There’s much we don’t know for sure.
We can safely assume some likely facts based on knowledge of human nature.
These men were rare birds, because they actually studied and considered what they learned. They remembered an old tidbit about signs of a new King. We can imagine them debating and finally agreeing togeth-
er: “Yep, this is it. Let’s go.”
Of course, they would have told various people they were setting out on a journey that would take at least 40 days across the desert. Imagine telling a dozen of your friends you were going to walk 750 miles to witness something predicted several hundred years ago. How many people do you know who would volunteer to go with you? How many would call you crazy? If you live in a small town like I do, it wouldn’t take but a few days before the whole town was pointing and laughing at you.
These men charted a course. They made a commitment that was against all odds. They recognized the importance of something others ridiculed.
No doubt it was a long, rough trip. I’ve never ridden a camel, but I suspect riding 20 miles a day isn’t exactly a picnic. You can imagine being glad to finally reach the little town of Bethlehem. They looked up and the star was directly overhead instead of out front. They’d finally made it.
Perhaps they rested for a week after they met Baby Jesus. In 40 days time, they rode back into their home city again.
The ridiculing neighbors gathered around. “Welp, was it worth the trip?”
The hardest journeys we must take are right inside of us. Most of us don’t have the nerve to face the cold desert nights in our soul. How many of us see the signs pointing the way? We’ve got the Word passed down from long ago, but are we willing to consider that the Old Story is more than a kid’s fable?
When they’re about to lower you down into the ground, what will anyone say?
If we are wise, they’ll say we made the journey, we saw the King, and we spent the remainder of our days quietly proclaiming the King’s Glory through our service. n
