Lake Murray, SC April 2024

Investment Can Mean So Many Things

Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives is done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.

DAVID HAYTH, PUBLISHER

@LAKEMURRAYLIFESTYLE

April 2024

David Hayth |

Corporate Team

RETIREMENT INCOME PLANNING: MAXIMIZING WEALTH AND LEGACY R

YOU ONLY GET ONE RETIREMENT

Retirement marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and sound financial choices. It's often envisioned as a period of relaxation, exploration and deep connection with family and friends. However, this dream doesn't just manifest. It necessitates forward-thinking and detailed planning, regardless of one's financial status. Amid global economic changes, evolving life expectancies and intricate tax systems, an all-encompassing and strategic retirement plan is more crucial than ever.

A key element of effective retirement planning is diversifying your income sources. While staples like 401(k)s or IRAs are foundational, it's equally important to branch out. Dividend-bearing stocks can provide regular dividends, bonds offer both periodic interest and principal return and real estate, whether directly or indirectly owned, has potential for both rental income and value growth. Private investments can also yield passive income and impressive returns.

Tax considerations significantly influence retirement strategies. Each financial action, from asset sales to account withdrawals, can carry tax consequences. Knowing these details can greatly influence one's overall retirement income. Tactics such as Roth IRA conversions can help distribute tax liabilities over time, allowing for taxfree withdrawals later on. Using strategies like tax-loss harvesting can balance out capital gains, ensuring proactive steps to reduce tax impact.

SOURCES OF INCOME DURING RETIREMENT

Annuities have long been recognized as a popular retirement income source. An annuity is essentially a financial contract that can offer a steady and predictable income, with options that might even extend to lifetime payouts. Available in varieties like fixed, variable and indexed, they often come with tax advantages. However, retirees should also be aware of certain drawbacks. These might include fees and expenses, issues around liquidity, and potential concerns related to inflation.

Delving into the world of Alternative Investments, retirees can consider assets such as hedge funds, private equity and real assets, among others. These investments may promise higher returns and provide diversification away from traditional stocks and bonds. However, the complexities of these investments mean they often come with challenges like illiquidity, higher fees and the need for a thorough understanding of the investment itself.

Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), while not familiar to everyone, can be a potential retirement income source. Historically rooted, DSTs offer a form of passive real estate investment, which can lead to regular distributions. They also open doors to 1031 exchange possibilities, offering tax deferral benefits. But, just like any other investment, DSTs have their limitations, notably the lack of liquidity and the heavy reliance on trust management.

Introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) were designed to spur economic development. Investing in these zones can lead to deferral, reduction and even the potential elimination of certain capital gains taxes. However, they often require a long-term investment horizon, and retirees must be well-versed with the specifics of the chosen opportunity zone.

Rental income remains a favorite for many looking for consistent returns. Whether through direct property ownership or Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), real estate can offer passive income, tax benefits and appreciation. Yet, the

responsibilities tied to property management, the uncertainties of market fluctuations and other associated costs must not be ignored.

The backbone of many retirement plans, Social Security Income, provides a safety net for millions. Established with the intent of financial assistance, the amount one receives depends on various factors. There are also strategies retirees can employ to maximize these benefits, such as deciding on the optimal time to claim or considering the implications of working while receiving benefits.

ESTATE PLANNING AND PHILANTHROPY

Beyond the immediate realm of retirement, estate planning emerges. This encompasses not just post-retirement arrangements but also asset distribution for future generations or charitable endeavors. Regularly reviewing wills, trusts and beneficiary designations ensures alignment with changing circumstances.

Philanthropy seamlessly integrates with retirement plans. Beyond fulfilling a personal mission to give back, it also carries financial benefits. Using instruments like donor-advised funds or charitable trusts lets individuals make impactful societal contributions while enjoying tax advantages.

You only get one retirement. In the ever-evolving world of finance, staying updated and flexible is essential to ensure the continued relevance and efficiency of one's retirement strategy.

Disclosures

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals of Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals of Csenge Advisory Group, LLC. MAS, Csenge Advisory Group, LLC and Impact Wealth, LLC are not affiliated entities.   Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency.

Every retirement journey is distinct, and each vision merits expert guidance. Impact Wealth is based in Boulder Colorado. You can contact them at Impact@ImpactWealth.com.

Misty Stathos Ins Agcy Inc

Misty Stathos Ins Agcy Inc

Misty A Stathos, Agent 1207 N. Lake Dr. Lexington, SC 29072

Bus: 803-951-9151

Misty A Stathos, Agent 1207 N. Lake Dr Lexington, SC 29072

Bus: 803-951-9151

State Farm Bloomington, IL

I’m the one you go to when you don’t know where to go.

Plan your next dream

Whatever you’re saving for next, it’s easier to get there with the right plan. I can help you look at your financial goals and find smart ways to save.

Whatever you’re saving for next, it’s easier to get there with the right plan. I can help you look at your financial goals and find smart ways to save. Call me today.

Happy New Year!

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN

Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.

Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.

Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of

the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.

Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!

If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater

that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.

While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”,  you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!

Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.

Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.

And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.

Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later.

JW-Marriott.marriott.com

PuertoMayaCancun.com

CenotesZapote.com

ChambaoRestaurant.com

HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!

There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.

GOOD LIGHTING

It is imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. A room needs a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, and I see this so many times, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I always add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light.  Also, candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.

GREAT TEXTURES

Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.

DECLUTTERING

So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages.  You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.

invest inyour living space

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut cream

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

INDOOR PLANT GUIDE

Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits

Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home.“There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.

Anthurium has gorgeous, colorful flowers and is the easiest indoor flowering plant to care for. It comes in a variety of colors including red, white, orange and purple. Anthurium likes to be dry, so let it go bone dry before watering. Fertilize every so often, especially when blooming. These plants do not like direct sunlight and can be repotted every three to five years.

This cascading plant is gaining popularity due to its succulent-like leaves and also because it is fairly easy to care for. The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.

“Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of  purifying the air.”

This is a slow-growing variety that is architectural and compact. This plant is a great statement piece and looks great in an entryway or by a chair. There are a lot of varieties and colors of the Dracaena. They are very resilient in low light and are great for an office space with little or no light. They like to stay on the dry side, so they like to be watered when they are about ½ to ¾ of the way dry. When watering, give it a good soak. Protip: A moisture meter can be purchased and used to determine how dry your plant is to help determine when it is time to water again.

ANTHURIUM:

DRACAENA JANET-CRAIG COMPACTA:

HOPE PEPEROMIA:

Wow Moments

Many resorts say to expect wow moments, but what if we want to be blown away by almost every moment of our hard earned PTO? These are the Wow Moments Resorts for your travel type!

We all spend tons of time searching the internet for where to spend our travel dollars, but where will we get the most out of our planning time and paychecks - so we can experience the WOW Moments we desire?

Which type of Wow Moment Lover are you? Take a look below and find your next vacation destination!

YACHT LOVER WOW MOMENT - If you love perfect weather, welcoming locals, a luxury spa and the grace of yachts and sailboats flowing past your balcony, Zoetry Marigot Bay will be your place for your Wow Moment. This serene island is the perfect locale to find many wow moments including a drive-thru volcano, thermal mud baths, a rainforest and a chocolate estate.

OUTDOORS LOVER WOW MOMENT - The over 550,000 picturesque acres at Vermejo alone are the jewel of this northern New Mexico resort. Whether you love to fish, hike or simply be in the presence of a wide variety of wildlife, this is your happy place. Riding horseback through open fields where there is no trail but your own, while the breezes almost blow off your cowboy hat will be with you forever.

ARTICLE BY AVA ROXANNE STRITT, @SPATRAVELGAL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHAT TYPE ARE YOU?

Ted Turner Reserve’s Vermejo will allow you to see the earth as it once was, and hopefully, with their sustainability efforts, it can remain.

SPA LOVER WOW MOMENT - The historic Greenbrier Resort has been welcoming guests since 1776, and their role as a natural healing oasis continues to draw people from all over the world for the “Greenbrier Experience” and to find a place of retreat for those seeking solace.

SKI LOVER WOW MOMENT - The Sonnenalp Hotel with its private ski concierge at Vail’s Gondola One, is a home away from home for those who love skiing or après-ski. The hospitality and genuine care given to their guests, in a European manner, are comforting after a long day on the slopes. Their exclusive private slope-side ski concierge amenities range from experts providing top-of-the-line rentals and demos for skis, snowboards, and helmets, along with the latest technology in ski tuning, repairs, and waxing.

ARCHITECTURE LOVER WOW MOMENT -

The Viceroy Los Cabo draws your eye and holds it during your entire stay with the architecturally stunning concept by Miguel Angel Aragonés. The cinematic views and striking architecture elevate every experience there. Try to take your eyes off the view from your room for the afternoon and explore the nearby Flora Farms, then return to dine at Nido - a beautiful nest-like structure suspended between ocean and land. End your night with the unique style of Japanese cooking Robatayaki and watch the moon sparkle on the sea with your nightcap.

LUXURY LOVER WOW MOMENT - The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs exudes luxury at every turn. Since this luxury resort opened its doors over a century ago, guests have been met with warm genuine hospitality. Do not let this hotel’s luxury foundation fool you, one can find an unmatched selection of adventures and activities unique to the American West.

Riding horseback through open fields where there is no trail but your own, while the breezes almost blow off your cowboy hat will be with you forever.

End your night with the unique style of Japanese cooking and watch the moon sparkle on the sea with your nightcap.

EUROPEAN WOW MOMENT - The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio, Italy graces the shores of Lake Como. Aristocrats, movie stars and the notables of multiple generations have all been drawn to this family owned grand villa. Here one can embrace times gone by, far from the crowd, surrounded by every comfort imaginable and looking out over one of the most beautiful views in the world.

HOT SPRINGS LOVER WOW MOMENT - Sierra Grande is a place once you arrive you feel like you belong. The mineral-enriched geothermal hot springs may be the draw, but the entire town is a tranquil haven. The holistic wellness services and private indoor and outdoor hot springs show honor to the region’s Native Americans who first established the region. After your afternoon soak, head down to the Truth or Consequences Brewing Company and embrace the local terrestrial vibe.

Are you one of these Wow Moment Lovers or ALL? Where will your wow moments take you next?

ARTICLE BY KELLY HUGHES CAPITAL CITY/LAKE MURRAY COUNTRY PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZACH STEINHAUSER, TERRI BAUERLIN, BILL BARLEY

EXPERIENCE THE PURPLE MARTIN PHENOMENON AT LAKE MURRAY

At night, the Purple Martins take flight! Each summer the skies over Bomb Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive for their summer vacation. More than one million birds are estimated to venture north for the summer and roost on the island, giving spectators a rare look at one of nature’s true phenomenons. This sanctuary provides the ideal layover for the birds on their long journey to their winter home in South America and makes it the largest roosting site in North America.

In response to the overwhelming interest in observing the Purple Martins, the Lake Murray Country Visitors Center crafted a FAQ to guide curious visitors on the art of spotting these charming birds:

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO SEE PURPLE MARTINS?

Late June through the beginning of August is the best time to view the phenomenon, with the number of birds peaking in mid-late July. The birds are visible in the morning and evening. It has been recorded that when the birds leave in the morning, it is like an explosion and the local weather radar has said the image is larger than Hurricane Hugo was in 1989.

Credit: Terri Bauerlin

Credit: Zach Steinhauser

It has been recorded that when the birds leave in the morning, it is like an explosion and the local weather radar has said the image is larger than Hurricane Hugo was in 1989.

WHERE IS THIS PHENOMENON LOCATED?

This one-of-a-kind birding event is at Bomb Island on beautiful Lake Murray in South Carolina, USA.

HOW CAN YOU SEE THE BIRDS?

A boat is the best way to view the phenomenon! Boats are available to rent around Lake Murray or you can charter a personal tour.

Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, you don’t want to miss this extraordinary phenomenon. Embark on a journey and create cherished memories on beautiful Lake Murray with any of our experienced captains who will take you to witness this avian phenomenon. Most tours last about two hours and riders are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks.

LISTED BELOW ARE A FEW EXPERIENCED CAPTAINS READY TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THIS EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE:

USCG Captain Zach Steinhauser

• Wingard’s Market | 1403 N. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072

• wingardsmarket.com | (803) 359-9091 | zach@wingardsmarket.com

Captain Kenny Hardee

• Pontoon Rentals & Tours | 220 Jakes Landing Road, Lexington, SC 29072

• lake-murray-boat-rentals.com | (803) 530-3713

Captain Rick Crout

• Captain Hook’s Lake Murray Tours

• captainhookstours.com | (803) 603-1142 | rickcrout@icloud.com

Need more ideas and things to do while visiting Lake Murray County this season? Check out our itineraries, which are fun for the whole family! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is the place to Stay and Play. Book your Lake Murray Playcation today by visiting LakeMurrayCountry.com!

Credit: Bill Barley

or contacts

LASIK is just one of many fantastic surgical options to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia- age-related inability to focus at near distances requiring the use of reading glasses.

LASIK and PRK are procedures using a laser to reshape the cornea. Refractive lens exchange replaces your eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to meet your vision needs. Implantable contact lenses offer another option for patients with extreme nearsightedness.

Schedule a consultation with a specialist to see which option is best to help you reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 4TH-7TH

11th Annual Tartan Day South Celebration

Historic Columbia Speedway | 8:30 AM

April 4th- Tartan Day South Kick-Off Party at Steel Hands Brewery, 7:00PM

April 5th- Celtic Concert at Icehouse Amphitheater

April 6th- Tartan Day South Highland Games & Celtic Festival at Historic Columbia Speedway, Gates Open at 8:30am

April 7th- Kirkin' of the Tartans at West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheater, 11 am

More information can be found at tartandaysouth.com

APRIL 7TH, 14TH, 21ST, 28TH

Unpack the Porch – Wine, Music & Food Sundays

Enoree River Winery | 2:30 PM

Come out and enjoy the beautiful grounds, the delicious wines and the FREE music offered during their Spring "UnPack the Porch Music Series!" It’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends and family of all ages.

APRIL 13TH

Strawberry Pick & Play

Clinton Sease Farm | 10:00 AM

Head out to Clinton Sease Farm for a day of fun during the delicious strawberry season in Lexington, SC! Tickets include wagon rides, pick-your-own berries, visiting the farm animals, playgrounds, mazes, and more!

events

APRIL 19TH

Pork in the Park

Memorial Park-Newberry | 5:00 PM Newberry’s Pork in the Park is a Southern Barbecue Network sanctioned event, making the talent that much greater, and the judging that much tougher! This annual event will feature mouth-watering BBQ from across the southeast. Enjoy live music, feast on great food, kids activities, and more!

APRIL 19TH

Wine Tasting at Riverbanks Botanical Garden

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden | 7:00 PM Sip a variety of wines in one of the nation’s most beautiful and inspiring gardens. Sample light bites from local restaurants while listening to live music. Taste an array of microbrews and much more! All proceeds support the care and conservation of the animals and plants at Riverbanks and beyond.

APRIL 24TH-28TH

Columbia Food and Wine Festival

Motor Supply | 6:00 PM

4/24- Kickoff Dinner at Motor Supply, 4/25- Pasta & Pairings at The Pastor's Study; Desserts & Digestifs at Hotel Trundle, 4/26- Mixer on Main, 4/27- Brunch & Bungies at Fit Columbia; Mezze on the Menu at Pitas; CAE Concert on the Runway at Eagle Aviation., 4/28- Columbia Food and Wine Festival Grand Tasting at Robert Mills Estate More informationcolumbiafoodandwinefestival.com

From Lake Erie To Lake Murray

Liz and Tony Foy purchased Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care in March of 2013. They are originally from Toledo, Ohio, where Tony was a mechanic for over 25 years and Liz was in banking for over 17 years. They brought these skills with them when they decided to purchase this small business. When they bought the business they brought with them good work ethic, honesty and superb customer service - a must! Tony worked for Cottman Corporate for 5 years prior to owning his own shop. During this time, he traveled the United States rebuilding distressed Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care shops and reopening closed ones. Tony was out of town working 8-9 months at a time. Liz was able to take vacation time and go visit, but it was very hard for them to be apart. They decided to purchase one of the distressed shops. They were choosing between Columbia, South Carolina and Corpus Christy, Texas. In the end, they chose Columbia, SC, because they loved the area and loved the people.

Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care

became Licensees. This led to Liz and Tony becoming a true family-owned mom-and-pop shop and they love it. They are truly thankful that they can make choices and changes to better their business and help their customers and employees.

is your One Stop Auto

Shop.

One thing they would love their current customers and future customers to know is that they specialize in transmissions, but also offer Total Auto Care. Total Auto Care is anything from working on engines to oil changes. The only thing that they do not work with are tires. Liz and Tony keep their customers repairs and maintenance history on file, so they know what is needed for maintenance on their vehicle(s). Helping to keep their customers and their families safe on the roads is important to them.

In 2010, when they purchased Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care it was a Franchise. In January of 2018 all Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Cares

Tony and Liz pride themselves and their team by taking on repairs that other shops don’t offer. Repairing classic vehicles is one of their specialties. Others are carburetor adjustments and replacements, powertrain restorations, differential rebuilds, manual transmission rebuilds and more. They also work on larger repairs such as engine replacement, timing chains, cylinder heads and their ultimate offering is in-house manual and automatic transmission repairs and rebuilds.

Chewey, Cottman’s Sweet Grreeter

Liz and Tony Foy, Owners