July/August 2024
Celebration Edition
Publisher
Tracy Tuten
Editors
Kristi Antley
Design and Production
Kristina Parella
Volunteer Coordinator
Paige Youmans
Contributing Writers
Jerry Grimes
Mary Ann Hutcheson
Ed Lundeen
Blair Smith
Marilyn Thomas
Photographers
Jessica Meetze
Sales
Tracy Tuten
Tracy@OurTownNow.com
839-205-0717
Our Town Magazine (Vol. 2. Ed.4.) is a bi-monthly magazine published by RIT Media LLC. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced without written authorization from the Owner of RIT Media. The publisher is not responsible for the authors’ opinions or comments or the advertisers’ promotions of their individual businesses.
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
(L,R): Kristi Antley, Tracy Tuten, Paige Youmans
Apassion. The potential. An idea. Implementation and possibilities. I believe all successful businesses start here. This was exactly the mindset when we decided to move forward with the wild idea of Our Town Magazine a year ago this month. It was exciting and intimidating at the same time to me as well as to my editor, Kristi Antley, but we were determined and knew in our hearts that we could do it. We knew that if we stuck together as a team, stayed focused, and fully utilized our talents and gifts, we could do what we do best: make great things happen.
As with any successful business venture, Our Town Magazine has persevered through quite a few changes, learning curves, and adaptations to accommodate our increasing growth. Paige Youmans joined us to pitch in as needed, be it a consultant, writer, co-editor, or volunteer coordinator. Paige is so inventive and helped with the vision of our logo. We were blessed to find our designer, Kristina Parella, who I have dubbed “Designer Extraordinaire” as she has a gift for creating our upscale, classy magazine. With technical assistance from Damian Williams and his experts at TechPro, we were off to the races! Our initial team, along with those whom I affectionately refer to as "my people" (faithful advertisers, contributors, volunteers and collaborators), were excited to watch the pilot edition come to fruition, and more importantly, we could not wait to share it with you!
Over the past year, our team has tweaked areas requiring attention and has continued to witness steady progress. We have brainstormed, debated, and circled back to original, unique ideas and have been successful in doing so. We have prayed for this business and “our people” as much as we have for each other. We are a genuine team, and it is truly a gift.
Now, seven editions in, we are still excited to bring our readers local information and current articles to enjoy, as well as offer groundbreaking opportunities to partners and advertisers. Our clients have unlimited choices to optimize and maintain a prominent footprint in each issue and on every existing platform via digital media: podcast, radio, and streaming TV advertising services.
While we do not include ourselves among the milestone anniversaries mentioned within this edition, the results speak for themselves. We are confident that we will hit our own markers based on Our Town Magazine’s blooming popularity, recorded growth, original and relevant content, compassionate community involvement, strategic planning, and unmatched customer service.
Thank you for loving Our Town Magazine - the premiere publication for Lexington County! We hope to see you out and about!
Local Events: July/August
HIGHLIGHTED
THURSDAY, JULY 4
64th Lexington County Peach Festival
Gilbert Community Park, 110 Rikard Circle, Gilbert, 9am-11pm
This free family-friendly festival is an event for all ages! Patriotic festivities will celebrate the community, Independence Day, and the “Queen” of all fruits, the peach! Enjoy live entertainment, fresh peach treats, arts and crafts, a parade and car show, fireworks, beauty pageants, and so much more!
LexCoPeachFestival.com
SUNDAY, JULY 7
Purple Martin Cruise
The Spirit of Lake Murray, 1005 Carl Shealy Rd., Irmo, 7pm-9:30pm
Don’t miss this 2-1/2 hour relaxing cruise and the phenomenal blanketing of the sky as thousands of swallows return to Bomb Island to roost. Full menu for purchase while onboard; cruise tickets are $59 for adults and $50 for children under 10.
SpiritofLakeMurray.com
MONDAY, JULY 8
Australian Wine Dinner
Chophouse of Chapin, 105 A Ellett Rd., Ste. 104, Chapin, 6pm
This elegant event will feature 5 wines and a 5-course meal, including shrimp, leg of lamb, and kangaroo. Tickets are $150 each and will sell out fast!
ChophouseofChapin.com
THURSDAY, JULY 11
Zoso The Ultimate Led Zepplin Experience Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 W. Main St., Lexington, 7pm10pm
With over 4500 performances since ZOSO came together as a premier Led Zepplin tribute band, this is a live performance for all ages that you don’t want to miss! EventBrite.com
SATURDAY, JULY 13
Strength Haven Foundation’s First Annual Car Show
White Knoll High School, 5643 Platt Springs Rd., Lexington, 1pm
Bring the family to this landmark event filled with food, trucks, cars, motorcycles, jeeps and other classics to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention.
SATURDAY, JULY 13, SATURDAY, AUGUST 10
Coffee with a Cop at the Market Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 W. Main St., Lexington, 9am1pm
Take a few minutes to greet local officers, enjoy a cup of coffee and talk about what’s happening in your community.
SATURDAY, JULY
13-SUNDAY, JULY 14
Christmas in July Shopping Extravaganza
Columbia Metro Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St., Columbia, 10am
Beat the heat and browse over 100 vendors and interactive booths during this INDOOR event! The first 100 customers receive goodie bags! $5 admission, children 12 and under are free; free parking.
SUNDAY, JULY 14
Gibson Pond Micro RC Crawler Competition Gibson Pond Park, 241 Gibson Rd., Lexington, 8am Drivers are allowed 2 RC rigs total ($15 entry fee per rig) in this fun event hosted by the Midlands Micros Group! Stay after the competition for a 1/10th scale crawl.
MONDAY, JULY
15-THURSDAY, JULY 18
Afternoon Summer CampThe Sports Series AR Workshop, 602 E. Main St., Suite F, Lexington, 1:30pm4pm
Young artists ages 7-14 can combine their love for sports with the exciting world of mixed-media craft projects. Registration closes July 11.
ARWorkshop.com
MONDAY, JULY
15-THURSDAY, JULY 18
Circus Adventure Week 2024
Decided Church, 2101
Kennerly Rd., Irmo, 6pm-8pm
This is a fun, interactive, educational experience for kids ages K-3 through 5th grade and their families! Preregister your kids online today!
DecidedChurch.com
TUESDAY, JULY 16
Historically Speaking Presentation
Lexington County Museum, 5440 Augusta Rd., Lexington, 6:30pm
Grab the kids and spend some time learning about Lexington County with this free, intriguing monthly series. LexingtonCountyMuseum.org
SATURDAY, JULY 27
31st Annual Lexington Community Fun Day 131 Duffie Drive, Lexington, 3pm-8pm
Enjoy live music and entertainment, employment opportunities, food, games and activities, and free backto-school items while they last. In the case of rain, this event will be held August 3.
LexCommunityFunDay.org
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2
Sell Out Live Performance
Rusty Anchor/Catfish Johnny’s Lake Murray, 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., Chapin, 7pm
Indulge in delicious food and cocktails as you enjoy live, dockside entertainment from the Sell Out band!
RustyAnchorRestaurant.com
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4
First Sunday S.C. State Museum $1 Admission S.C. State Museum, 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, 12pm-5pm
General admission is $1 on the first Sunday of each month!
SCMuseum.org
TUESDAY, AUGUST 6
National Night Out with the Lexington Police Department
Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 W. Main St., Lexington, 5pm-8pm Connect with local law enforcement and first responders to discuss crime prevention and enjoy free laser tag, face painting, inflatables, food, and live music. Get your tickets now!
LexingtonSC.org
FRIDAY, AUGUST 16
REV ON The Foreigner Experience
Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 W. Main St., Lexington, 6pm This show will have you singing along with every word of Foreigner’s classic hits! Tickets are $20 and will sell out fast!
IcehouseAmphitheater.com
FRIDAY, AUGUST 30
Taylor Nation Performance
Icehouse Amphitheater, 107 Main St., Lexington, 6pm Prepare to embark on a thrilling musical odyssey that spans the entire spectrum of Taylor Swift's illustrious career and momentous musical evolution; tickets are $26.
IcehouseAmphitheater.com
SATURDAY, AUGUST 31-MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
“New Frontiers” Chapin Labor Day Festival and Parade
It’s time for the largest Labor Day celebration in South Carolina with over 100 vendors, food trucks, live music, dozens of floats, and western-themed activities hosted by the Town of Chapin through Monday morning. Register now as a sponsor, vendor, volunteer, or parade participant. ChapinSC.com
IHappy Independence Day!
By Ed Lundeen
ndependence Day unites us all as Americans, no matter where we came from. It is a day to celebrate with fireworks, hot dogs, hamburgers, beach outings, or attending patriotic ceremonies. Many Americans say, “Happy 4th!” which seems odd to me because I like to say, “Happy Independence Day”, which seems more appropriate. When I say this, people have a befuddled look on their face as if I said something wrong; I am told they have never heard anyone say this. July 4th is America’s Independence Day, but it came with a heavy price.
Many Americans do not know that the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, by the 13 colonies that made up America at that time. This was the catalyst for the American War of Independence or the American Revolutionary War. America lost over 25,000 in this eight-year war and these are the people I think about when my family and I celebrate Independence Day. They paid the price for our freedom when this country was in its infancy, and we forget that much too often. Because of their sacrifice, we are living in freedom in the greatest country on Earth.
Their names and services are long forgotten, and, more than likely, some of their tombstones have crumbled with the effects of nature. History books don’t really depict the conditions or the horrors they experienced. It’s funny how time passes and people forget the importance of what Independence Day is all about. We, who also served this great Nation, owe all fallen patriots a debt of gratitude. They paved the way for all Americans to live and thrive in the America we enjoy today. In essence, they gave their tomorrows for our todays.
July 4, 2024 will mark 248 years as a free and democratic country and plans are being made to celebrate even bigger on our 250th birthday on July 4, 2026. Many Americans do not view July 4th as a birthday but rather as a day off from work, a day to socialize and party, or a day to take advantage of all the sales. These activities are fine and enjoyable, and it is ok to celebrate this way.
My family and I served this great Nation for nearly 21 years of active duty in the U.S. Army. No matter where we lived, we always attended a local celebration of fireworks and food or a patriotic ceremony. U.S. military installations exemplify an Independence Day celebration and I always left these beaming with pride at how lucky I was to be serving in uniform. July 4th is not only the celebration of another year of freedom, it is also the beginning of a new year for America, which is what a birthday signifies. I am proud of this country and proud to be an American.
I hope you will join me and wish your family and friends a Happy Independence Day!
Shagging on the Boulevard The Swing Dance of the South
By Jerry Grimes
For thousands of Carolinians, the “shag” is a beloved dance step popularized in the 1940s and 50s along the Grand Strand. Our elders often reminisce of swaying to the beat and gliding effortlessly across dance floors on sultry summer nights with the ocean roaring steps away. Having movements related to the “swing” or the “jitterbug”, it is fascinating to watch shaggers with fluid, graceful movements and fancy footwork. It’s a part of life here in the South, and in fact, the South Carolina Shag is the official state dance.
“I’d rather shag dance than eat,” said Vickey Van Frank, 73, president of the Capital City Shag Club. She is serious, recalling how she has allowed food to
become cold several times so she could take one more spin on the floor. But it is so much more than just a dance; to the members of Columbia’s shag dance clubs, it’s a vital key to staying young and healthy, a boon to good relationships, and an entire lifestyle all in one. “It’s wonderful because you meet so many people who are so nice. They become a part of my shag family, they have my heart,” Frank shared. The love for this joyful dance step has built a community of hundreds of people in the Midlands who belong to one or more of the area’s
three clubs: Capital City Shag Club, the Columbia Shag Club, and Palmetto Shag Club.
Liz Smith, 75, of Lexington, says her doctor told her shagging might be why she is so healthy. “She told me to keep doing what I am doing,” Smith said. “Any movement is good. Good for your heart, your body, your lungs. And good for your head because it makes you leave your house and be with people,” Smith added. The key is not to let age be a barrier to dancing; you are never too old or too young. Many local shag clubs hold events designed to attract families with children, teens, and everyone in between in an effort to keep the dance alive by passing the torch to future generations.
Jennifer and Brian Grant, originally from Chicago, are in their 50s and love taking to the floor to keep their relationship strong. Brian also admits that learning to do the shag when he turned fifty cured him of a bad case of dance phobia. “I didn’t even dance at our wedding,” Grant said. “I was terrified just looking at a dance floor. But something about this dance kind of drew me in. I tried it, took lessons, and I was hooked.”
Shagging is often linked to the term "swing dancing," though the two dances shouldn't be lumped into the same category. It has since been described as a "cold beer on a warm night with a hot date and no plans for tomorrow." More often than not the shag is the featured dance at any club-sponsored event, but many participants in the group enjoy line dancing as well. There are various other genres of music for shaggers other than the classic “beach music” that made the shag famous, such as nostalgic tunes from many decades ago, and even a few country favorites that are occasionally rotated into the selection.
South Carolina author Tom Poland co-wrote Save The Last Dance for Me: A Love Story of the Shag and the Society of Stranders, and he has a special place in his heart for the activities and interests of shag club members. “They’re making a real effort to pass this on to what they call ‘juniors,’ and that is a good thing to see. I think it will always be passed on. It's the official state dance in North Carolina and South Carolina,” Poland said. The Society of Stranders (SOS) is a national organization that provides a means to guide shag dancing and the lifestyle that surrounds
it while keeping in touch with the past that gave birth to the phenomenon. This presents the framework for discussing, planning, and implementing activities at the beach for all “stranders” to enjoy and enhance their experiences. The website has extensive information for shag culture, including communication between shaggers, lounges, dance clubs, and affiliated organizations.
Getting involved with shag dancing couldn’t be easier; just show up at the VFW Hall on Cedarcrest Drive in Lexington on most Thursday nights. The Capital City Shag Club and Palmetto Shag Clubs meet there weekly, except for the third Thursday of each month. There are free Junior Shag Workshops for ages 2-20 years old. Anyone is welcome, even if you feel that you were born with two
left feet, according to Palmetto Shag Club
President Butch Smith. “Just come on and hang out with us and have a good time,” Smith said, with arms wide open.
Capital City Shag Club PO Box 53 Irmo, SC 29063 CapitalCityShagClubSC.org
Columbia Shag Club PO Box 11225 Columbia, SC 29201 ColumbiaShagClub.net
Palmetto Shag Club P.O. Box 7232 Columbia, SC 29202 PalmettoShagClub.com
CELEBRATE
Marking Milestones
By Marilyn Thomas
Whitehead Orthodontics: Celebrating 25 Years of Sharing Smiles
“It amazes me how quickly 25 years have passed,” Dr. James (Jim) Whitehead warmly remarks. “I have had the opportunity to meet and grow to know so many patients and their families, treating over 11,000 people to date. There is nothing more rewarding than running into my patients at the ball field or the grocery store and learning more about what has transpired in their lives. I am anxious to see what the next 25 years hold!”
Growing up as the son and grandson of physicians, Dr. Whitehead naturally thought he would pursue a healthcare career. However, his interest changed at a young age. “It was only after my experience as a teenager in braces that I considered a path in dentistry.” In retrospect, he realized he was influenced by two close family friends who were dentists. “Dr. Sonny Ethridge was my pediatric dentist and contributed to my childhood exposure to the world of dentistry,” he says. “Also, Dr. Rusty Newton was a local periodontist and one of my most inspirational neighbors.”
When asked how he manages a successful practice and a family of four, he explains, “Work and family life are always a challenge, but we make time. My wife and I are blessed with 3 boys. The oldest is in dental school, the middle is in college, and the youngest is in the fourth grade; it is quite a span. Owning the practice allows a bit more control of our schedule while we are chasing our guys that are going in many different directions.”
Lexington Technology Center: Commemorating Five Decades of Career-Oriented Instruction
“Since 1974, the Lexington Technology Center (LTC) has provided exceptional opportunities in career education for Lexington County School District One students,” says Bryce Myers, director of career and technical education for Lexington County School District One. “At the moment, we are in the process of organizing multiple events that will celebrate our current and former students, staff, and business and community partners.”
LTC serves students from five district high schools including Gilbert, Lexington, Pelion, River Bluff, and White Knoll. This top-tier educational center has earned honors such as the Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence Lighthouse Award and the Palmetto Gold Award, achieved the prestigious Cognia STEM Certification, staffs several instructors who have been named “teacher of the year,” and rarely experiences turnover in leadership, with only four directors overseeing the school throughout its 50-year tenure. Additionally, LTC pupils (2000 current enrollments) frequently win state and national recognition in career and technical student organizations.
Laughter is a regular component of the relaxed office environment of Whitehead Orthodontics on Mallard Lakes Drive in Lexington. “We believe in having fun along the way because a positive, relaxed atmosphere contributes to better patient experiences.” His patients are invited to explore the world of orthodontic approaches with cutting-edge technology and innovative techniques for a healthier and straighter smile.
“The best education is when a student challenges themself academically and pairs that experience with a hands-on, applied experience in career and technical education [CTE] at Lexington Technology Center or one of our other CTE programs across the district. This is the essence of college and career readiness,” says Director Myers. “The goal is to produce citizens who thrive in their careers and make our communities a better place.” Plans are underway to expand CTE opportunities for Lexington students. “There is a need in the community to produce highly skilled employees to meet the needs of local businesses,” Director Myers explains. “Lexington One produces highly knowledgeable students. CTE programs help show students what to do with the knowledge they have—we are the learning labs for their core content.”
Lexington County Fire Service: Celebrating a Half-Century of Excellence
Every year, “Our members respond to more than 22,000 calls for service,” says Lexington County Fire Service Chief Davis. To serve the 758 square miles of Lexington County, LCFS enlists the assistance of 276 full-time members and 20 volunteers who work within 25 fire stations and operate 103 fire vehicles and other related apparatus. Chief Davis credits the growth, success, and longevity of LCFS to the “service excellence [that] started with the formation of our volunteer departments,” and he also recognizes the significance of the present-day support of “our citizens and elected officials.”
LCFS was officially established by the county council in 1974 as a division of Emergency Services to provide fire protection to the immediate surrounding community. Separate fire departments existed within several towns throughout the region before that time. Today the jurisdiction of LCFS extends to all areas of the county, except for the municipalities of Cayce, West Columbia, Batesburg, Leesville, and Irmo. “The 50th Anniversary is a time for us to reflect and honor our past as a primarily volunteer organization made up of individual districts,” continues Chief Davis, “up to our time now, as one fire service unified in serving the county.” The Anniversary Committee is commemorating this milestone with a 50th Anniversary Fire Truck paint scheme, a yearbook, and a challenge coin.
Hot Summer Cool Landscapes
Lexington County launched its first official emergency medical services (EMS) operation in 1974, with just four ambulances and 16 employees. This service was primarily established to enable highly skilled clinicians to respond to emergencies and offer critical life-saving measures to patients for stabilization and safe transportation. Fifty years later this first-responder operation, with its mission of “service beyond expectations,” continues to thrive with a current staff of 150 full and part-time employees who respond to approximately 50,000 calls annually, operating a fleet of 18 ambulances around the clock. In addition to administrative and operational personnel, paramedics and emergency medical technicians are in place to operate ambulances and provide medical assistance.
In January 2024, Lexington County EMS hosted an Open House event at its headquarters at 407 Ball Park Road in Lexington to celebrate the service's semicentennial milestone, recognize outstanding staff members of the past and present, and display memorabilia that captures the service’s development through the past five decades. As part of this program, a “Legacy of Lifesavers” commemoration was unveiled that permanently displays dedicatory plaques of retired EMS responders along the headquarters’ hallway. “This event is one of many that EMS plans to hold this year in honor of our 50th anniversary,” Deputy Chief of Operations Magen Hallman said. “This gives us an opportunity to reflect on the advancements the EMS industry has made and celebrate the people and their legacy that has paved the way forward.” During a council meeting on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, the Lexington County Council also presented a special resolution, dedicated to the EMS staff, to acknowledge 50 years of committed service to the citizens and visitors of Lexington County.
Riley’s Drugs: A 100-Year Legacy of Compassionate and Comprehensive Care
“We refer to ourselves as being locally owned, locally operated, locally loved, and we are a completely independent community pharmacy,” says Roberta Perry Vining, RPh, current owner and pharmacist of Riley’s Drugs. “I think that's truly what sets us apart.” The business was established in 1924 in the Red Bank area by Dr. Mark Sidney Riley, a graduate of Clemson University and the Medical University of South Carolina (USC) College of Pharmacy.
After the original Riley’s Drugs building was destroyed by fire in the late forties, it moved to Columbia Avenue. Dr. Robert Perry, also a graduate of the USC College of Pharmacy, joined Riley’s Drugs in 1967; the tradition continued when Dr. Perry’s daughter, Dr. Roberta Perry Vining, decided to follow in his footsteps. “I always wanted to be a pharmacist like my dad,” she says. Her venture with Riley’s Drugs began as a teenager— cleaning bathrooms, dusting shelves, and ordering merchandise, under the mentorship of Dr. Riley and her father. Upon graduation from the USC College of Pharmacy, she returned to Riley’s Drugs where she has served for more than 40 years. After Dr. Riley’s passing and Dr. Perry’s retirement, Dr. Vining became the sole owner of the business.
In 2012 the business relocated to a newly constructed 6500-square-foot store on West Main Street. “We're still seeing generations of families that Dr. Riley cared for, so that's really special,” says Dr. Vining. “From the beginning of Riley's drugs,” she says, “Dr. Riley emphasized how important it was to serve others…and I feel like we have continued that same legacy and those same ideas through today. That kind of care was instilled in my dad, and he instilled it in me.”
Chapin High School: 100 Years of Service and Excellence
Although Chapin High School has approximately 1700 students currently enrolled, its traditional theme of “a thousand passions and one heartbeat” is an excellent representation of unity. “When you think about what a heartbeat denotes,” explains Principal Edward Davis, Jr., “it denotes life, and I just challenge our students, faculty, and staff to be life and speak life to one another. We know that we are all one with one heartbeat, and we have this wonderful life we're in together as one, but we're going to be life (that's our actions) and speak life (our words to one another).”
Established in 1924, Chapin High School is the oldest school within Lexington Richland School District 5. To commemorate it’s anniversary Chapin High School is “embedding references” to “100 years of service and excellence” within scheduled activities throughout the year. For example, when hosting an annual pageant in February, previous winners were invited to participate. Additionally, the school is compiling stories and warm anecdotes from former students, faculty, and staff to be promoted across media platforms.
Within its centurial timeline, highlights of the school include several state championships in multiple sports, the recent accolades of Amy Carter, South Carolina Teacher of the Year in 2022, and Dr. Akil Ross, National Principal of the Year in 2017. “For the future,” Principal Davis concludes, “we're embracing growth in where we are, and just want to continue the excellence that we've had over the years.”
Medical University of South Carolina: 2
Centuries of Exceptional Patient Care with 50 years of Heart Care in the Midlands
As the new year unfolded MUSC embarked on a yearlong celebration commemorating its remarkable 200-year history. The very first event marking this momentous occasion was the raising of the MUSC Bicentennial flags across the entire system, a symbolic gesture heralding the beginning of a year filled with reflections on MUSC's past, a celebration of its present and anticipation of the future.
With two centuries of significant contributions to medical knowledge, experience, and technology, today’s MUSC is described as a “comprehensive academic health system, with a unique mission to preserve and optimize human life in South Carolina through education, research, and patient care.” Much closer to home, Kate Lincoln, director of marketing and communications for the Midlands division of MUSC, announces another significant milestone in this major medical organization’s history: “We are celebrating the 50th anniversary of heart care in the Midlands.”
“In 1974, the first open heart surgery case was performed in the Midlands at what was then Providence Hospital,” Director Lincoln explains. “Since then, the legacy of heart care has been carried on by many caregivers, and more than 33,000 open heart surgeries have been performed at what is now MUSC Columbia Downtown Hospital.” She adds, “The program was started by Drs. John Sutton, Dan Davis, Claude Smith, and John Yarborough. One of our current surgeons is John Sutton as well, son of one of the first surgeons. Strides continue to be made in the innovation of heart care and open-heart surgery, including less invasive procedures and other ways to improve patients' health,” explains Director Lincoln. “What used to be more than a week's long hospital stay for open heart surgery is now down to a few nights in the hospital.”
In celebration of its rich legacy, a series of traveling exhibits have been constructed that encapsulate the institution's history. Nine double-sided, 7 x 7-foot exhibits will travel across the MUSC network throughout 2024, sharing their story and serving as a valuable resource for the campus community and visitors.
Carefree Without Glasses or Contacts
LASIK is just one of many surgical options to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia– age-related inability to focus at near distances requiring the use of reading glasses.
Even if you have been told in the past that you are not a candidate for vision correction surgery, you now may be able to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts.
Schedule a consultation with a specialist to discuss a personalized treatment plan to meet your lifestyle and vision needs.
Changing What’s Possible together.
Located in Lexington County - MUSC Health Heart & Vascular physician practice is part of the MUSC Health Midlands Division of care.
MUSC Health’s mission is to improve health and maximize quality of life through education, research, and patient care. We are dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of the people in Lexington County and beyond!
Every da y, we’re changing what’s possible in health care.
MUSC Health Heart & Vascular
Palmetto Park 108 Palmetto Park Blvd., Suite C Lexington, SC 29072
muschealth.org/ columbia-medical-center-downtown
A Community Art Project AROUND TOWN
By Mary Ann Hutcheson
The residents of Chapin recognize and understand the value of artistic endeavors in their town, which is known as the “Capital of Lake Murray”. In partnership with the Town of Chapin, the Crooked Creek Art League (CCAL) established the Chapin Arts Trail to stir the public imagination and sense of creativity as well as beautify the community with public art displays created by local artists. The trail includes installed public art pieces and galleries that are updated and expanded periodically throughout the greater Chapin area. There is something here for everyone; visitors are in for a treat!
Spirit of the Lake
You may have seen this unique, colorful mosaic obelisk as you travel along Highway 76 in Chapin. Artist Olga Yukhno’s artwork, named “Spirit of the Lake”, was celebrated with a dedication ceremony in April 2023. Yukhno hand shaped the mosaic and ceramic pieces, fired and then glazed them before placing each individual piece onto the six-foot-tall sculpture. Yukhno is originally from Pyatigorsk, Russia, where her passion for art began. Much of her inspiration comes from the culture of her home country, where batiks, stained glass, and enameling are popular forms of art.
This permanent artwork addition to the Chapin Art Trail combines the elements that represent the vibrant flora and fauna of Chapin and Lake Murray. Yukhno’s vision reflects the exceptional natural beauty encompassing the town.
Small Town Charm
On November 9, 2023 the public art installation and addition to the Chapin Art Trail entitled “Small Town Charm”, was unveiled for the public in the form of a large-scale mural covering the entire side of a building in downtown Chapin. Designed in high-quality, superior weather-resistant, water-based paint by artist Nicki Peeples, it now serves as a permanent addition to the Chapin Art Trail. Peeples chose the name for the mural because it represents the simple and appealing life that de-
CHAPIN
ART TRAIL
scribes the town she loves. Being her very first outdoor building painting, she remarks that the excitement regarding the project pushed her forward, one step at a time. She spent time researching the correct paint and the most durable materials, as the mural on her cinderblock canvas would need to withstand time and weather. The preliminary stages of the project included a huge amount of planning, measuring and brainstorming. Without using any type of template, she began with a Sharpie to sketch out the letters; everything else was accomplished with freehand strokes. Once the lines were confirmed to be straight and symmetrical, she “eyeballed” the rest, which produced a more natural result.
Community Arts Manager for CCAL, Barbara Teusink, explains, “The mural will be the latest addition collectively put in place on the Chapin Art Trail.” She points out that that there are 31 pieces by 31 different artists, including a new mural located on Beaufort Street, located between Lexington Avenue and Clark Street behind American Legion Post 193.
“We are once again partnering with the Town of Chapin to create some exciting public art with the goal of shining a light on the vibrant arts scene in Chapin.”
You and your family are encouraged to experience an ongoing self-guided tour of the “Capital of Lake Murray” and its many works of amazing and throught provoking public art. Brochures with maps can be picked up at Chapin Town Hall, the Chapin Chamber of Commerce, Palmetto Fine Arts, or online. “We are very fortunate to have such a wonderful and supportive communi-
ty,” CCAL Community Arts Manager, Barbara Teusink explains. “The Town of Chapin, the Chapin Chamber of Commerce, and local business leaders have all stepped up and have been generous in their support for the Crooked Creek Art League and our community artwork projects. That collaboration and support, along with some wonderful bequests and grant funding, has made the entire Chapin Art Trail possible,” she continues. “We are happy to have just received a new grant from the Central Carolina Community Foundation that will enable us to put in place another new community art project later this year that will add newer artwork to the Chapin Art Trail.”
Crooked Creek Art League
1098 Old Lexington Hwy Chapin, SC 29036
CrookedCreekArt.org
Chapin Town Hall
157 Columbia Ave. Chapin, SC 29036
ChapinSC.com
803-345-2444
The Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce
302 Columbia Ave. Chapin, SC 29036
ChapinChamber.com
803-345-1100
Palmetto Fine Arts & Custom Frame Gallery
140 Amicks Ferry Rd. Chapin, SC 29036
PalmettoArts.com
803-932-0265
Service with aSmile Just Hustle Ty Hendrix
By Mary Ann Hutcheson
If you have walked into Bellacino’s Pizzas and Grinders of Irmo in the past few years, you have probably witnessed Ty Hendrix’s welcoming smile and bright, warm eyes. His magnetic, confident, and vibrant personality cannot be overlooked. The Gilbert High School graduate works five days a week from 7 am to 4 pm, with, as he says, “one day to chill.” He has been a part of the Irmo team for four years after initial training at the Lexington location. His position involves being a floater, attending the register, answering the phone, exhibiting excellent customer service, and distributing orders as fast as possible to customers. “Everybody has something important to do here,” he says.
Working hard to graduate early and begin full-time employment, Ty hit the ground running. He reveals that he loves his job and admires his boss, Cheryl, whom he considers family. “I love cooking, it’s easy! I’ve been in the food industry for so long; daddy taught me to cook at a young age,” Ty explains. “I especially enjoy grilling steaks outside in nature.” Antonio, his father, works at the same location and is revered as the family cook at home. Ty admits that he gets his drive and ambition from his father, who says, “Bellacino’s is a wonderful business.”
Although he is thrilled to be in a position where he can advance, earn money, and invest at the age of 19, when asked about the future, Ty reveals that he wants to be wealthy--not rich. “I would like to have a big house someday, not too far from my immediate family, and I would like to be married with two children; a boy and a girl.”
The handsome and determined young man is wise beyond his years and eager to help others. Ty offers this advice to his friends beginning to venture into the workforce with an entrepreneurial spirit: “Just hustle. Anybody can do anything; just put your mind to it and believe in God.” Excellent advice from someone who practices what he preaches.
“The simplest toy, one even the youngest child can operate, is called a grandparent.”
-Sam Levenson
What is a Grandparent?
By: Beth McLean, MPH
When you see the word "grandparent", what feelings or images come to mind? From a technical standpoint, grandparents are those who we are genetically tied to via our parents. For this article however, I would like to refer to a broader definition: an admired elder whom we respect and wish to share life experiences with and gain wisdom from.
BUILDING
Growing up in Wisconsin, the only names I knew grandparents to be recognized by were "Grandma" and "Grandpa". It wasn't until I moved further south during my teen years that I was exposed to nicknames such as "MeMaw" or "Pops". According to an August 2023 survey conducted by Preply, the most common nicknames for grandparents nationally are "Nana" and "Papa", though in South Carolina, "Granny" and "Granddad"
DREAM HOMES
Each September, Grandparents' Day is observed the first Sunday after Labor Day. This tradition officially began in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter declared the first "Grandparent's Day"; it will be celebrated on September 8th this year. Here are some meaningful ways you might be able to honor the grandparents in your life:
Send them a handwritten card, letter, or drawing
Plan to visit in-person and share favorite memories, look through photo albums or take a walk together
Call them and share how they have positively impacted your life or what you admire most about them
Take them out to eat at their favorite restaurant (or order their favorite to-go meal to enjoy with them at their home
Ask them what is new or note-worthy in their life (or ask them to share an interesting story about themselves that you
Cool Drinks and Sweet Treats
The "Dog Days" of summer are here, complete with the hottest, stickiest, most sweltering days of the year! Stay hydrated and beat the heat with these delicious, cool treats from a few of our favorite local restaurants!
Strawberry Pie with Whipped Cream Cheese Topping
Submitted by: Alicia Wharton, Yummie Gourmet to Go Creations, Inc.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 c. water
• 1 c. granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp. cornstarch
• 6 tbsp. strawberry Jello mix, dry
• 1 lb. fresh strawberries, without stems
• 1-19 inch deep-dish pie crust, baked
• 8 oz. Cool Whip or whipped cream cheese topping
WHIPPED CREAM CHEESE TOPPING:
• 8 oz. cream cheese block, cold
• 1 c. granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 2 c. cold, heavy cream
DIRECTIONS:
Topping: Mix cold cream cheese in bowl on high speed with attachment while gradually adding sugar. Once it is well blended, add the vanilla. Gradually add heavy cream in small streams while continuing to mix on high speed until thick and creamy. Spread generously on chilled pie.
Pie: Combine water, sugar, and cornstarch in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the glaze is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add strawberry Jello mix to the glaze and stir to combine. Place the fresh strawberries into the baked pie crust and pour the strawberry glaze over the top. Chill for at least 2 hours. Top the pie with Cool Whip if desired or whipped cream cheese topping. Note: To make the pie resemble Shoney's strawberry pie, stack the strawberries very tall; you could also use a graham cracker crust. Enjoy!
Spicy Peach & Pineapple Slushie
Submitted by: Anna Yau, Clean Juice
INGREDIENTS:
• 3/4 c. Spicy Peach Clean Juice, coldpressed, organic
• 1/2 c. organic coconut water
• 1 1/2 c. frozen organic pineapple
• 1 c. ice
• 1 tbsp. honey (or to taste)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine ingredients in a blender for 30-60 seconds, until your desired consistency is achieved. Then pour into a favorite glass and enjoy!
Note: The spicy habanero flavor adds a little kick, but this slushie will keep you cool. It can also be poured into popsicle molds and frozen for a healthy treat (it's not too spicy for the kids). Or, no one would judge if you added some spirits to make this an adult beverage; without corn syrup, preservatives, and dyes, it is still the healthiest cocktail you can create!
Blueberry Lemon Cake
with Cream Cheese Frosting
Submitted by: Leslie Gandy, O’Hara’s Bakery Café
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 c. unsalted Butter,
• 1 1/4 c. granulated sugar
• 1/2 c. light brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp. pure vanilla extract
• 3 c. all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 c. buttermilk
• 2 tbsp. lemon zest
• 1 1/2 c. blueberries, if frozen do not thaw
• 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour
CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
• 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 c. unsalted butter
• 3 1/2 c. confectioners sugar
• 1-2 tbsp. heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
DIRECTIONS:
Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F, grease three 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds and grease. Make the cake: Using handheld or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat the butter on high until creamy (1 minute). Add granulated and brown sugar, beat at medium-high speed until creamed (2-3 minutes). Add eggs and vanilla, continue to beat until thoroughly combined (2 minutes) scraping bowl as needed. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl, slowly adding dry and wet ingredients. Beat on low 5 seconds, then beat in milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice *just* until combined. Toss blueberries with 1 tbsp. flour and gently fold into batter, do not over-mix; spoon batter evenly into pans. Bake 21-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Remove from oven, allow to cool completely in pan.
Frosting: Using the same equipment, beat cream cheese and butter on medium speed until no lumps remain (3 minutes). Add confectioners sugar, 1 tbsp. cream, vanilla extract, and salt with the mixer on low. Turn mixer on high, beat for 3 minutes; add 1 more tbsp. cream to thin out if desired. Assemble and frost: First, using a large, serrated knife, trim tops off cake layers until flat. Place 1 layer on cakestand and evenly cover the top with cream cheese frosting. Top with 2nd layer, more frosting, then third layer. Top with frosting and spread around the sides. Finish with blueberries or lemon garnish if desired. Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes before cutting for firmness.
TGod the Creator is also God the Redeemer
By Blair Smith, Senior Pastor, First Baptist of Irmo
his romanticist painting from 1818 is called “Wanderer Above a Sea of Fog” by Caspar David Friedrich. There is a stark contrast between the stillness of the picture and the feeling of movement it gives the viewer. As you see it from a third-person perspective, it causes you to have first-person emotions; almost as if it were you on that peak looking out. What is your response to this painting? “Breathtaking,” “overwhelming,” “triumphant,” and “lonely” are some of my responses to this well-known painting. How often does this happen to us in life? We momentarily think of an event in the future and yet we are somehow able to experience emotions and thoughts as if it were happening right then. (This simple yet complex truth alone forces us to consider the existence of the Creator, but let’s remain on the same path of personal observation.) Consider your responses to the painting; the contrast between emotions and reality as you experience an emotion that’s real but not true of your current reality. You’re not standing over a sea of fog!
Sometimes in life, our real emotions are not always true to reality. We stress about some social event happening a month from now, or we are easily able to feel the frustration of dealing with a difficult person, or we can get ourselves all worked up anticipating a confrontation that might never happen. These are anxieties, and they take hold of us when we forget this is not the reality.
The Lord tells us in 1 Peter 5:6-7: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.”
In this world full of overwhelmingness and unmanageable time, we can feel as though we are alone upon some cliff looking out on a cold, windy day with nothing in view but fog. Yet we can pour out to our God the anxieties of our hearts because He cares for us. We can also remember He is the one in control, and all that surrounds us proves He is God—even the overwhelmingness!
God the “Creator” is also God the “Redeemer”. Jesus Christ walked in this anxiety-filled world overwhelmed with brokenness, and because of His death upon the cross and resurrection on the third day, He can overwhelm your world with grace. Believers in Christ have the blessedness to know that their reality is defined by God and His Word, not circumstances.
May the Rock of our Salvation bless you with His truth and grace.
