Lexington Life Magazine- Jan 15

www.lexingtonlifemagazine.com January 2015 | LEXINGTON LIFE | 1

2 | LEXINGTON LIFE | January 2015 www.lexingtonlifemagazine.com

ContaCt Us: 225-B Columbia Avenue, Lexington, SC 29072 • 803.356.6500 • [email protected]


FEatUREs10 Town of Lexington Snowball Festival Highlights12 Lexington Women of Law Raising the Bar16 It Takes a Village Square Village Square Theatre 22 New Year’s Resolutions On Staying Resolved28 Bargain Hunters and Fast Cash32 Finn’s Gift: A Simple Encounter, A Lasting Memory34 David Clark Another Man’s Shoulder

ColUmns9 Faith Matters Pastor Ken Jumper

DEPaRtmEnts3 From the Publisher5 Events7 Lexington Leaders Susanne Sanders25 Faith in Action Grace Church of Columbia38 Spice of Life Slow Cooker Recipes

Why are we here? God put us on this earth for a reason. What is it? I certainly don’t have the answer to that question, but figured the start of a new year would be a good time to reflect on life in general.

Possessions make up such a big part of to-day’s society. We aim to impress our parents, children, friends and even strangers with our houses and cars, or maybe a fancy wardrobe and jewelry. Why? Do these material things really make us happy?

Recently, I’ve been asking myself the ques-tion, “What makes Todd happy?” Have you ever asked that of yourself? If I truly strip my-self down to the core, what makes me happy?

My first answer is my kids. They make me happy because I know they love me uncondi-tionally. They’re not of the age and maturity to understand this yet, and they have no idea how much they are loved. What about you? In my brain, I rattle off a few other potential an-swers and wonder how they would score on

the Family Feud. Spouse, career, faith, love, friends, food: survey sez!

Whose responsibility is it to make us happy? After much reflection, I think de-fining happiness as personal contentment makes the task somewhat more manage-able. Ultimately, we make choices every day. We alone are responsible for the con-sequences of those choices. Maybe our quest for “happiness” causes us to lose sight of what’s really important in our lives.

For 2015, I’m praying for content-ment. I’m appreciative of the blessings God has shared with me, especially my wife Donna and our family. I’m thank-ful for His forgiveness and sacrifice for our sins. Happy New Year’s to you and your family and thanks for spending some time with Lexington Life.

contents

ContaCt Us: 225-B Columbia Avenue, Lexington, SC 29072 • 803.356.6500 • [email protected]

Publisher & editor-in-ChiefTodd Shevchik

[email protected]

editor/ProduCtion Manager Kristi Antley

[email protected]

assistant editorTiffanie Wise

[email protected]

sales ManagerAnne Reynolds

[email protected]

aCCount exeCutivesDonna [email protected]

Tracy [email protected]

editorial ConsultantAllison Caldwell

[email protected]

graPhiC designJane Carter

Website designerPaul Tomlinson

Contributing WritersTrishia Callahan, Kristen Carter,

David Clark, Jackie Perrone, Charissa Sylvia, Marilyn Thomas

Contributing PhotograPhersJaime Presor, Sean Rayford

L-R: Tracy Tuten, Tiffanie Wise, Kristi Antley, Anne Reynolds

16


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January 9-112015 Home Building and Remodeling Expo Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.This comprehensive, expansive home show brings together homeowners and many of the most knowledgeable and experienced remodeling and building experts. Search Columbia at HomeShowCenter.com or call (803) 545-0001.

Saturday, January 10 Plant Yourself Soda City Main Street Market, Columbia 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Hang out, grab some water, snap some crazy photos or make a craft — all while learning more about The Arc’s Mixed Greens program and supporting local Soda City vendors. Just look for the bright green shirts! People with intellectual and developmental disabilities and volunteers are invited to participate in this fun monthly event. [email protected] or (803) 479-8773.

Saturday, January 10Two Gals and a Fork Food Tours Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Historic Columbia’s trained and certified tour guides will share the city’s rich history while you savor and experience tastings from five famously hot restaurants in the Vista. The tour runs approximately 2.5 hours and will leave you stuffed with delicious food and fun historical facts! (803) 360-0578.

Thursday, January 15 Sweet Adelines International Global Membership DriveLexington Baptist Church, 7:00 p.m.Women of all ages who enjoy singing are in-vited to join Heart of Columbia Chorus — a

chapter of Sweet Adelines International, an organization of nearly 25,000 women world-wide who sing four-part a cappella harmony, barbershop style. HeartofColumbia.com or (803) 687-7167.

Thursday, January 15Cuts for a Cure, Haircuts to benefit Relay for LifeHair Solutions, behind Fatz Café, Lexington10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 100% of ALL proceeds will benefit Relay for Life. Stop by for a free haircut from Hair Solutions, a free chair massage from Soothing Sessions. Clothing donations are welcomed and will benefit LICS. Additional volunteers are needed. Contact Jennifer at Hair Solutions (803) 957-3616.

Saturday, January 17WovenHarbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College, 7:30 p.m.Jazz composer and gifted trum-peter Mark Rapp teams up with professional choreographers and dancers to present Woven, his one-of-a-kind contemporary jazz ballet. $22. HarbisonTheatre.org or (803) 407-5011.

Saturday, January 24Remembering General Sherman’s Burning of LexingtonLexington Municipal Complex, 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.This event will allow attendees to reflect on the damages and changes caused by Sher-man’s March while enjoying dinner and danc-ing. $50 per person. All funds will support the restoration of the Fox House and Corley Cabin at the Lexington County Museum. Lex-co.sc.gov/museum or 359-8369.

Saturday, February 7MGC Long Run 15k/5kDowntown Columbia McAngus Goudelock & Courie is proud to bring the MGC Long Run 15k/5k back to Columbia for its second year, with a new Kid’s Fun Run. This year’s race benefits USO South Carolina. Races will be followed by a family-friendly after-party at the First Citizens Courtyard on the corner of Main and Lady. MCGLongRun.com.

January



“Blessed” is a word you’ll hear a lot from Susanne Sanders. She views her life’s work as a ministry, and thinks Lexington is a “blessed” place to carry it out. The track re-cord of Turning Pointe Centre for the Arts offers proof that she’s found ways to touch the world while improving the lives of those around her.

Turning Pointe is a multi-purpose stu-dio offering classes in dance, music, sing-ing, and modeling. Its theatre arm is a non-profit professional company combin-ing original drama and entertainment with world travel. Its stated purpose: to enrich the lives of those participating as well as those attending.

This energetic Lexington entrepreneur started life in Mullins, South Carolina, and earned a B.S. in Biology and a Pre-Med degree from Charleston Southern Univer-sity. Her reign as South Carolina Junior Miss followed by high achievement in the Miss South Carolina pageant led her to the performing arts. She has been principal dancer with ballet as well as jazz compa-nies, in addition to modeling for television

commercials and movies. Now she’s devel-oped that passion into a studio of theatre performance.

“As a college student, I was an athlete as well as a performer. I have carried that discipline into the studio, and this is where I teach not only the skills of music and act-ing but the discipline and focus necessary to succeed. It’s my greatest joy to see young people blossom as they develop confidence and poise. Everyone can benefit from this kind of training, whether they go on to work in theatre or somewhere else.”

Susanne’s faith journey grew along with her career, and she now sees their presenta-tions as a ministry to lead people to Christ. Every production of Turning Pointe is to-tally original. She and others on staff write, stage and record every event. She is also an ordained minister.

In 12 years Turning Pointe Theatre has toured nine countries worldwide, in Eu-rope and Africa. Next summer, the itinerary includes Switzerland, Scotland, and Africa. Naturally, Turning Pointe studio also partic-ipates in local events such as festivals, pa-

rades, and Kids Day. Another amazing aspect of this life’s

journey: Susanne Sanders underwent surgery and bone marrow transplants in 2001, facing the possibility that she might never walk again. A titanium brace in her spine and a lifelong dedication to discipline and perseverance brought her through it, so that she is once again danc-ing and performing.

While music and art are Susanne’s pas-sions, she works to develop any other in-spiration a student may want to pursue. It could be medicine, public service, ministry or any other field. She wants everyone to follow his or her dream and make the most of God-given talents. “Find your destiny!” is her mantra.

Along the way she was married, and now has two children active in the theatre world as well as one grandchild. Daughter Catherine Baker-Schneider sings, acts and models; son Brandon Baker is a producer and now manages a recording studio; this family has been blessed with talent, pizzazz and compassion. n

by Jackie Perrone

Susanne Sanders



The Harvest • 4865 Sunset Blvd.Lexington, SC 29072 • 808-6373 • www.the-harvest.org

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While recently staying in a Raleigh hotel, I awoke early, looked out of my room and saw an elderly couple heading to pack up their car. The lady was walking a beautiful, standard white poodle. She was prancing around with her tail wagging in the air (I’m speaking of the poodle, of course). You could feel the dog’s energy from my third-story window.

A little later that morning, I saw a similar sight. This time a mid-dle-aged gentleman was following his old Bassett hound around. This picture was strikingly different than the one before. The hound was moping along, sniffing here and there, with no sense of direction or enthusiasm. Mind you, his owner didn’t mind one bit.

As I pondered the two scenarios, I asked myself a question that I now propose to you: How will you approach 2015? Will you get a good grip on the opportunities a new year will bring your way? Or will you just grind it out one more year and maybe make retire-ment one day? All I can say is, “Come on, man — make the better choice.” Are you going to prance forward in 2015 and make some waves, or just piddle along and hope it all works out?

Why don’t you take hold of some fresh faith in God, grab a pos-itive attitude and make the most of 2015! I firmly believe when we walk with God through faith in Jesus Christ, all things are possible. It doesn’t matter what your circumstances are dictating today. Cir-cumstances change, over time or turn on a dime. Either way, our determined and energetic outlook of faith will be the game chang-er! So what’ll it be? Ruff, ruff!

Follow Pastor Ken on Twitter at @pkharvest www.twitter.com/pkharvest


Concert, Carnival, Tree lighting and Movie in Square Presented by Town of Lexington, Lexington County Recreation & Aging Commission and media sponsor B106.7 FM

PattyPacks Warm a Heart 5K Race and Lexington Half Marathon Hosted by Run Hard Running Team and sponsors

Lexington Christmas Parade on Main StreetPresented by Town of Lexington and Lexington Jaycees


Just like that first South Carolina fe-male advocate, Amy Cofield followed in her father’s footsteps and joined his firm in Anderson County after receiving a Ju-ris Doctorate degree from USC’s School of Law in 1991. Initially, however, her

father had misgivings. “He did not want his daughter subjected to some of the treatment he had observed,” explains Cofield. After she obtained undergrad-uate and master’s degrees in education and taught school for several years, he witnessed positive changes in the field and encouraged her to pursue law so she could work with him. Although they only enjoyed three years in business to-gether, she says “he was an amazing at-

torney and a great teacher.”After her father’s passing she oper-

ated as a sole practitioner, but in 2002, she moved to her “second home” of Lex-ington to re-found the Cofield Law Firm with her brother, Thomas. According to

Cofield, this unique brother-and-sister firm has an “extraordinarily close work environment,” and the partners fre-quently visit each other’s offices “to dis-cuss our cases, ask for ideas, or simply talk about our children, politics, or the Gamecocks!”

Cofield’s primary areas of practice include worker’s compensation, real es-tate, and probate. “I feel very protective of my clients,” she says. “I fight hard for

A little more than 100 years ago, the first female to legally practice law in

South Carolina worked within her family’s firm

alongside her father and brother.

By 1918, women were graduating from the School of Law at the

University of South Carolina (USC) and

being licensed by the state bar. These bold attorneys pioneered in a profession

that was traditionallydominated by men.

Because of their efforts, this vocation has become a viable career choice for

women throughout the state. Today, Lexington County

can boast of many accomplished female

lawyers.

“I feel very protective of my clients.”

LexingTon Women of LaW:by Marilyn Thomas


them, especially when they are treated improperly.” She has initiated the cre-ation of new workers’ compensation law by winning several cases in the State Su-preme Court.

Similarly, Alicia Higgins of the Bur-riss Ridgeway Law Firm in Lexington

regards relationships with her clients as her main priority. As their represen-tation, Higgins seeks to help clients “understand the litigation that they are involved in and what the possible out-comes will be.” Every member of the

firm considers their work to be a minis-try. “We try to serve them,” she explains. “We try to encourage them. We come alongside them, and pray for them.”

Consequently, family law is the area in which her expertise lies. Divorce, child support, custody, visitation, and

defense of juveniles are several of the specific issues with which she assists her clients. Adoptions, which Higgins calls “a really happy business,” are also processed through her firm. Her fami-ly focus extends into her personal life

“We try to encourage them. We come alongside them, and pray for them.”

LexingTon Women of LaW:Raising the Bar


Amy Cofield

Alicia Higgins


as well. After receiving a degree in 1989 from USC’s School of Law, Higgins prac-ticed law until her firstborn daughter ar-rived. She then took an extended leave of absence to become a full-time mother, a part-time fitness instructor (a passion she calls a “paid hobby”), and even a homeschooling parent for four of those years.

Higgins returned to law in 2010 and reactivated her license. After spending the last four years in her “second law career,” she says that it’s much more satisfying this time around. “I do believe that’s because of the amount of life expe-rience I have now.”

Ashby Lawton Jones, another Lex-ington attorney and graduate of USC’s School of Law, has been practicing in the Midlands for 16 years. As a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Law-

yers and a court litigator (a representa-tive of parties to lawsuits), she joined Kinard and Jones, LLC 10 years ago be-cause of the family-oriented culture of the firm and the town.

Although she has litigated in circuit and federal courtrooms, the majority of her cases are related to family court, which includes divorce proceedings and custody disputes. In 2014, Jones earned the title of Lexington Life’s Best Family Court Attorney.

Because her clients are often strug-gling with difficult situations, litigation can be a challenging process to under-take. “I feel honored to be allowed to hear and know what they are enduring at such a sensitive time,” says Jones. This motivates her “to help them through such a major life event.”

In addition to litigation, she speaks

at seminars for attorneys, and publishes law-related articles in local magazines. When she is not working in this role, Jones enjoys reading and attending her children’s sports events with her hus-band Bret, a Lexington native. Through it all, she still endeavors to continue learning.

“The law changes. As our society advances, we learn more about what motivates people and what is best for our children,” she explains. “I intend to keep apprised of these changes so I can continue to help my clients, no matter what circumstance they face.”

Women like these continue to blaze the trail for others to follow. With con-scientious compassion driving their client-attorney relationships, the court-room is destined to be a fairer and less daunting place to endure. n

“The law changes. As our society advances,

we learn more about what motivates people.”

Ashby Lawton Jones

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We’ve watched children come out of their shells, adults cast aside inhibitions, and families bond when they take on the

challenges of live theatre.”“Nothing develops confidence and

poise like performing on a stage in front of a live audience.”

“Everybody is welcome in theatre, and every contribution is important. Scenery, lighting, costumes and set de-sign are just as essential to a good show as the people in the spotlight.”

That’s what you hear from the folks who make it happen at Village Square. It’s fair to say that their work is fueled by passion, and every production has the goal of being the best show possible. It’s been true since 1961, when Lexington Theatre was organized under the auspic-es of the Lexington County Recreation Council (originally the Youth Recreation Committee) to perform in the old ele-mentary school which is now torn down. They progressed to the old H. L. Chevro-let showroom building for a time, and in 1987 they achieved a permanent home at the former Village Square movie theatre on Columbia Avenue. The first shows there were performed in front of the movie screen, until they managed to get it removed to make way for a real stage. Now the Lexington County Arts Associ-ation undergirds the programs, and Vil-lage Square enjoys enthusiastic support across the community. Literally thou-sands of local citizens have taken part in 53 seasons of music, comedy and drama.

Nancy Huffines, Debra Leopard, Troy Fite and Becky Croft light up when asked to talk about their involvement at Village Square. “We had 179 children show up to audition for Peter Pan!” says Nancy. “Each one dreams of being in the show; how tough it is to turn away more than two-thirds of them. We ask them to promise to come back next time and try again.”

“So, they’re learning to deal with re-jection,” says Troy. “That’s just one of the many lessons about life that is learned here. And it’s not just children. Adults face disappointment and learn that they can still contribute here. We welcome

It Takes A

Village Square

Where do people thrive, fantasies

prevail, and dreams come true in

Lexington? It takes a village —

Village Square Theatre, where all

things are possible. After more than

half a century of bringing live drama

and entertainment to the Midlands,

the devoted staff at Village Square

Theatre knows what this

community theatre means to

the citizens of Lexington.

“

by Jackie Perrone

everybody who wants to be part of it.”All agree that they just live together for

six to eight weeks when a show is in produc-tion. “A lot of the people have nothing else in common,” according to Troy, “but they get to know each other while they work together, and there’s a very special bond that will last beyond the run of the show.”

Those bonds have brought about a certain level of fame for the veterans of Village Square Theatre. Foremost in the history ledger: the late George Boozer, an impresario who influ-enced a generation of local talent. A local boy with big ambition, he majored in drama at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and quickly made his way to Broadway and the big time. After a flourishing career di-recting and producing commercial ventures there, in 1974 George returned home to Lex-ington and quickly set about invigorating the community theatre. His first production The Gay 90s Revue splashed onto the local scene, and by the time 20 years had passed, George had written and directed 20 shows, showcas-ing local talent and fundraising for the Lex-ington County Recreation Council. Along the way, Lexington Theatre became Village Square Theatre, while the Council turned into the Lexington County Arts Association.

In 1980, Charles Alexander and Phil Smith compiled some Uncle Remus stories to create the first Village Square Junior production: An Evening With Uncle Remus. In 1984 Broad-way Beat of the Fifties went touring, appear-ing at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, the

Old Post Of-fice in Wash-ington D.C., and the Pelion Peanut Party. Following the leg-endary musicals, Village Square put on its first serious drama, Tobacco Road, in 1985.

Legends in their own time were Barbara Bise and her brother, Frank Williams. These two not only performed but direct-ed and produced, as well as managed costumes, scenery and props. Their names are in perpetu-ity on the doors of Village Square’s warehouse storage. Cecil Harman’s niche was costumes. He was heard to say that he found a way to design show-girl butterfly costumes which did not re-quire much cloth, just imagination.

Eliza Caughman Spence was in 15 shows written, directed and produced by George Boozer. “George Boozer is the reason I can project my singing voice across a large audi-torium,” she has said. “He would sit in the top of the big old school auditorium and call out, ‘Aunt Susie can’t hear you!’”

Sylvia Looney, well known in local musical circles, remembers growing up near George and later serving as musical director for some



of his shows. The two of them created an original song, Lexington: A Town of Beautiful People, for the Lexington Bi-Centennial in 1976. It’s stored away in some community archives. Sylvia stated emphatically that without George, there might not be any drama organization in town. He fueled the imagination and en-ergy to push it forward.

Now, after almost six decades, new talent has stepped onstage and Village Square is nurturing actors and musi-cians and designers for the 21st centu-ry. “Seasoned veterans and newcomers,” says Becky. “Little children, teenagers, their parents and grandparents,” ac-cording to Troy. They like to point out the many advantages of theater expe-rience for anyone. The camaraderie of cross-generational projects, the artistic expression involved in music or design, the poise acquired through onstage ap-pearance — all provide unforgettable ex-periences for everyone. Parents are not sitting to watch their children play ball, and kids are not immersed in electronic devices. Rather, the whole family is giv-ing their best shot at making each pro-

duction the best one ever. In addition, a lot of mentoring takes place backstage, especially for youngsters who may lack adult guidance and help at home. Says Troy, “My kid is passionate about it. I’ve watched his confidence grow every time he is part of a show here.”

Heather Hudson took part in Village shows as a young girl, and used her tal-ent and stage presence to win the Miss South Carolina crown in 2000. Makaela Shealy played Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, and is now a fledgling at the Stella Ad-ler School of Dramatic Arts in New York. Em Imholdtz has become a staff perform-er at Dollywood, and Robin Watts went on to appear in Carolina Opry in Myrtle

Beach. Nico Cruea enrolled in summer workshops at Village; he’s now a full time actor in TV and movies.

But enough looking back. What lies ahead for our treasured theatre re-source? Village Square Theatre is look-ing to expand. Another building would provide additional storage space for the voluminous collection of costumes and set pieces, as well as classrooms for continuing education. One new feature coming in 2015: beer and wine sales (to adults) at evening shows. Meanwhile, Peter Pan rings in the new year, and fu-ture seasons are already on the planning boards for Lexington’s jewel of the the-atre world, Village Square. n

Nancy Huffines, Becky Croft, Debra Leopard, Troy Fite


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We’ve all done it. Every year in Jan-uary, we resolve to change or improve something in our lives in the coming months. Too often we lose control, and our fervor fizzles by February. But a new approach to managing resolutions could make 2015 the year you achieve meaningful, lasting change.

Here are six tips to help you make a true commitment and capitalize on the energy surrounding the change in the calendar.1) Avoid ambiguity.

Aspiring to “lose weight” isn’t an ef-fective resolution. Instead, you should focus on a course of action rather than the outcome such actions produce. Fo-cus on making small, realistic commit-ments to goals you can achieve along the way. Small steps such as losing five pounds or inches of fat over the next three months is a much better and more achievable resolution. Plus, you’ll be able to track your progress and set new goals once you achieve it.2) Kick off your commitment in a healthy way.

Demonstrate your commitment by kicking off the New Year with an activ-ity that will help you reach your goals. This year, commit to being one of the

million people participating in a com-munity fun run, walk for charity or oth-er fitness event. Include your friends and family for support. 3) Resolve to take daily action, no matter how simplistic.

Life is busy. Everyone has demands to meet, and responsibilities often pre-vent us from carrying out our grand intentions of transforming our lifestyles by working out, sleeping eight hours each night or perfectly portioning our home-prepped meals. Instead of setting grand plans, resolve to string together 365 days of tiny battles and see what happens. Chances are, if you’re con-stantly building up small wins each day, you’ll stay motivated and even find room to do more than the minimal ef-fort you’d envisioned. 4) Expect to fail sometimes.

If you keep things simple, an occa-sional failure shouldn’t be a problem. In fact, it should seem so easy to get back on the right track that you almost have to laugh at yourself for falling off in the first place. Set behavior goals that appear easy, but are effective enough to make progress even if you only hit the target 80 percent of the time. Miss-ing one day of sticking to your plan

On Staying ReSOlved

Six Ways to Achieve Meaningful Change


shouldn’t ruin your desire to continue, especially if the miss is an expected part of the process.5) Eat well to live well.

The types of food you eat can be as important as, if not more important than the calories they contain. This year, commit to really thinking about the foods you eat, every time you eat. Keep a food journal for a week. Write down everything that you eat and drink, including how much and a note about how it made you feel. Be honest with yourself about those occasions when you may choose to eat something

that isn’t in the interest of your healthy eating plan. When you do an honest as-sessment of your eating patterns, you will likely see where moderation can work for you and where it can’t.6) Take others with you.

If you get discouraged when you can’t stick to your intentions, try expanding your support system. A group or part-ner approach is known to increase ad-herence to exercise habits and healthier eating, but it also makes the process more enjoyable and more fun. Not only can your resolutions foster better health and happiness in your life, but they can inspire positive energy and change in others’ habits as well. n

To learn more about staying committed to your health

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We are northside.

4347 Sunset Blvd. l 803.520.5656 l www.northsidechristianacademy.org

Our mission is to lovingly leadand equip students to believe,defend and proclaim the Truth.

We are northside.

We are...We are...Biblical worldview

Exemplary academic program

Biblical morals and values applied

Encouragement and accountabilitythrough the Word

FAITHFUL:

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LOVE:


Grace Church of Colum-bia is proof that you don’t need a big congregation or large church building to make a significant impact in your community. Located just a block away from Pinehurst Park in the Two Notch Road

area of Columbia, the members of Grace Church are an active part of life in their neighborhood. Pastor Jon Weigel firmly believes that every church member has a unique gift to offer their congregation and community, and encourages each person who attends Grace to find the special way they can minister to others.

With Grace Church hosting various outreaches and ministries nearly every day of the week, there is certainly no shortage of opportunities to serve! In addition to weekly events the church also hosts sev-eral annual events like the neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt, Vacation Bible School, Back-to-School Bash, Harvest Festival and Thanksgiving basket distribution. The goal of all events offered at Grace is to spread the word about what resources are available through the church and, ul-timately, to create opportunities for people to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.

During the week Grace hosts Wednes-day night Bible studies for children and adults in the neighborhood. The church sends out two buses to shuttle everyone to church (and return them home after-wards!). This special time includes games,

songs and Bible study for the children and a time of teaching for adults. Wednesday night events are always free, guaranteed to provide a time of Biblical teaching and safe fun for the whole family to enjoy.

Grace is also home to the Hope Proj-ect. This unique outreach happens twice a month on Tuesday nights and has been responsible for many local families receiv-ing food, clothing and prayer. The Hope Project is staffed by recipients of the pro-gram as well as church members, which creates unique opportunities for recipients to give back. Church secretary Faith Need-ham emphasizes the spiritual connections that develop out of the program. “We’ve been able to make some strong relation-ships with families through this ministry because of the prayer aspect. People come in hurting, and they often open up with us about struggles in their lives.”

Finally, Monday through Thursday af-ternoons Grace Church plays host to Co-lumbia-based Ezekiel Ministries. Led by Josh Whitlock, this after-school program is designed to provide mentoring, teaching, homework assistance and encouragement to underprivileged kids in the area. For more information. visit EzeMinistries.org.

Visit on Sunday or contact the church office to register for Wednesday night Bi-ble studies, learn more about The Hope Project (or provide donations of food or clothing) and to see what other activi-ties and outreaches are available at Grace Church of Columbia. n

2710 Harrison Road, Columbia, 29204

(803) 255-0120GraceChurchColumbia.org

Sundays 10:30 a.m.

by Charissa Sylvia



N o matter where you’re from or what your background might be, there’s one thing that is uni-versally loved: a good deal. A good deal at the right time ben-

efits both parties — after all, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Let’s be honest: there are multiple unused items hiding in our attics, closets, junk draw-ers and garages. You don’t have to be a minimalist to recognize the value of the space this stuff occupies, the stress that these neglected items can cause our families, and the financial benefits and freedoms of downsizing. Start fresh this new year by turning those gently used items into fast cash!

On the flipside, there’s nothing like the pure adrenaline rush of rummag-

ing through a seller’s treasures at a garage sale or flea market and retrieving the item you need (or want to repurpose) at an earth-shattering, discounted price! Oc-casionally you can even find brand new items or pristine antiques at a fraction of what you would pay at a local boutique, department, grocery or general store. Here in Lexington, right off of Augusta Road, bargain hunters and resolute downsizers have the opportunity to buy and sell just about anything imaginable at the Barnyard and U.S. #1 Metro Flea Markets. There’s truly something for everyone!

Barnyard Flea MarketUpon entering Barnyard Flea Mar-

ket, you are swallowed by the enormity of the barnyard-styled complex. As you

BARGAIN HUNTERSFast Cashand


by Tricia Callahan

walk down the aisles, you’ll see neatly blocked out booths for each vendor. On an idle Wednesday only a few tables and stores are open, but on Saturday the emp-ty stands come alive with parakeets, fresh vegetables, clothing, leather shops and an eclectic array of just about everything else. Something so vast has to have a beginning, and for Barnyard Flea Market it was 26 years ago when Alec, Sr. and Alec, Jr. of the Chaplan Company started this business.

Chaplan Company not only owns five different Barnyard Flea Markets, but also an RV park behind the Lexington location. Working directly with the father-son team is General Manager Gerald Facteau, who has been with the company for seven years. Christina Hunter has been with Barnyard Flea Market for 20 years, 15 of which as

manager of the Lexington location. Visiting on a brisk Saturday in Octo-

ber, you couldn’t walk two feet without seeing pink, because that weekend was specifically dedicated to a breast cancer fundraiser. This is one of many events that happen throughout the year. On Trick or Treat Saturday, visitors and vendors alike are dressed up in their favorite costumes. Perhaps the largest event of the year is Santa Land, which starts the Saturday af-ter Thanksgiving and runs until December 23. Those weeks are filled with decorative Santas and holiday-themed memorabilia, a huge carousel and LED displays.

As for “veteran” vendors that have stood the test of time, Hunter easily lists five different store owners ranging from Sam’s Leather Shop to Mr. Gunner’s fish-ing supplies. The Barnyard wouldn’t be complete without a mascot, so Hunter explains how Barney the Chicken is like-ly to pop up no matter where they are, including business trips.

When asked what sets Barnyard Flea Market apart from others, Hunter re-sponded quickly: “We are very family-ori-ented. We want you to be able to bring your kids.” Between Barney the Chicken and the Holiday light show, it’s clear that this is indeed a place for the entire family.

U.S. #1 Metro Flea MarketU.S. #1 Flea Market has an open-air at-

mosphere, but it’s clear that each vendor sees their table as a storefront. Walking through the multiple aisles, you can hear different music from Latin tunes to coun-try, chants of “buy five, get one free!” and

strong men sitting silently on the open tailgate of their trucks, selling tools so shiny you can’t look at them directly.

“It’s American capitalism at its best,” said owner Richard Hook. U.S. #1 Metro Flea Market has been in business for 34 long years. Hook and Lexington Manager John Hardee work hand-in-hand to make an enjoyable experience for vendors and visitors.

Hook has a history in chemical engi-neering, but says he was “bored to tears” on the weekend. Now that he’s running the flea market full-time, he couldn’t be more thrilled. “It started as a part-time hobby, and now here we are. It restores your faith in people and American enterprise.”

There are all kinds of goods and trea-

BARGAIN HUNTERSFast Cash


Richard Hook


sures to choose from, but a number of folks come just to buy fruits and vegeta-bles. Hook says that local restaurants visit the market for their incredible produce.

What sets U.S. #1 Metro Flea Market apart? Aside from the truly friendly atmo-sphere, 700 tables and the delicious pro-duce is the fantastic weekend deals you can get from sincere and honest vendors. There’s also a supplemental indoor space open on weekends. This is the place to be

when you need an interesting weekend diversion for family or friends that won’t break your wallet.

It’s clear with just these two flea markets in our local area that even the most serious bargain hunters can find their deal of the century, enterprising sellers can conduct a profitable business, and people like you can simply stroll through the aisles, nonchalantly scanning tables for that one-of-a-kind item you can’t possibly live without! n

U.S. #1 Metro Flea Market

3500 Augusta Road, West Columbia(803) 796-9294

Wed 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Sat 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Sun 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The Barnyard Flea Market

4414 Augusta Rd, Lexington

(803) 957-6570

Thu 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Fri 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Sat 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.Sun 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.


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LexingtonLifeMag_Columbia_1.1.indd 1 12/10/14 9:02 AM


Daily hikes with our Jack Russell pup, Finn, routinely take us past an assisted living facility. Adjacent to the facility is a Nursing Center for long-term care pa-tients, where my father-in-law spent his last days two years ago.

I often share a silent word with him during these walks and wish that he had lived long enough to meet our little buddy, Finn. They are kindred spirits, man and dog—each sharing a love for life and peo-ple—with the ability to bring great joy to those around them.

In the course of our walks, I noticed the positive change in residents when Finn arrived. Our dog is a loving, energet-ic, and social little fellow. When asked if they would like to pet him, their respons-es were welcoming and appreciative. Most soon knew his name, and Finn quickly learned who preferred to reach down from a wheelchair to pet him and who wished to scratch his ears, tickle his chin, and talk to him, as he nestled in my arms.

Dogs; they sense things. He sensed not to jump or place his feet on anyone, and he remained still, except for the perpetual tail waggle and a wide eager smile – as ear scratching and hugs spoiled him. Warmth and peace graced my own spirit in those moments. A win-win situation.

One April day, a year ago, residents gathered around the courtyard, some in wheelchairs surrounded by loving family members, some chatting with friends, and one particular gentleman sitting alone.

I noticed the lone gentleman sitting on a bench, at some distance from the oth-er residents, his upper body bent forward upon his walker, eyes focused downwards. Not wishing to intrude, I set out to pass in silence. Dogs, however, don’t assimilate the concept of intrusion. Finn pulled on the leash and approached, his busy tail announcing his intentions. He settled his small brown-and-white-spotted self, hind legs splayed outwards in Finn fashion, to face his new friend. Apprehensive, I stood ready to pull Finn along.

The gentleman raised his head, halting-ly, to find Finn staring back, his now exu-berant tail a blur of energy. No one moved. In a moment, the man’s clear, warm blue eyes found mine, and I asked if he would like to pet Finn. My dog found him irresistible, I said, and I thought Finn might abandon his meddling if the gentleman could spare a little pat on the back. His re-sponse was a slow smile and a gentle soft, “Yes, please.” I saw a twinkle in his eyes.

Finnie moved alongside the walker to place one short leg upon the man’s. A shaky hand was offered in response, and then a number of soft, comforting strokes to Finn’s head and neck. No words were spoken. The moment was pure, quiet, and powerful. Man and dog, warmth and friendship, loyalty and comfort. When the moment passed, and the gentleman had adjusted himself upright against the

bench, I realized how handsome he was. He was smiling now, through damp eyes. The simplicity of it all.

“Thank You,” he told us before we left. Finn trotted away, joyful and complete. “You’re welcome,” I said with a smile and moved with Finn to the next adventure.

In the days to come, we returned to that same spot, but we never saw the old gen-tleman again. Our brief moment together reminds me that simplicity is profound, that first impressions are not always the truth, and that each act of love is signifi-cant to a life.

Lessons Finn already knew.

F i n n ’ s G i F t : A Simple Encounter, A Lasting Memoryby Mary Ann Hutcheson


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It’s been just a touch over ten years ago now since Daddy called one afternoon. My Daddy didn’t get agitated very often. But he fairly blurted out: “Son, you need to come up here, can you? Your Mother doesn’t know who I am, Son.”

What’s got me thinking is how it was ten years ago now that Daddy didn’t get agitat-ed very often. Ten years ago now that he and Mama were still around to get agitat-ed, or lost, or sad, or joyful. Daddy lasted another year and a half, and poof! He was gone. Mama followed some 390 days later. Another 2,700-odd days have passed, and I’m closer to 50 years old than I am to the mailbox at the end of my driveway. And I’m wondering: where has all the time gone?

But the mirror tells me. Time went into the business of producing gray and wrinkle, and into development of calmness and pa-tience in places I never knew existed. After a violent yank and jolt in adjustment of life’s focus ten years ago, the days since then have been a continual slow-motion fine-tuning of a view that leaves me deeply filled with faith

in parts, and highly cynical in others. I plow ahead with learning about nature

and with fulfilling my duties at the work I get paid to do.

I manage to generally keep a quiet bub-ble between me and the mayhem the world seems to be engrossed in, where everyone is blaming others about things that either can’t be changed or they’re not willing to change themselves.

I find it amazing to consider what causes folks to get wrapped around the axle, until I remember that I get wrapped around the axle over stupider things.

And then I leap back in my mind to ten years ago, when the slightest thing could ruin my day. Mama’s Alzheimer’s changed all that by teaching me the insignificance of almost everything we typically call trouble.

Every day now, sometimes several times a day, I’m running into somebody who looks beaten and tired. The next thing you know after we shake hands, they’re telling me their Mama or their Daddy or their wife or husband has dementia. I’ve gotten to where I can almost pick them out on the street, be-cause of some deep recognition of that beat-en and tired look.

I thank God that my leg of that journey is over, and that I’m able to finally begin repaying my debt to the universe of angels who just happened to show up along my path ten years ago — the ones who put their hand on my shoulder and told me to hang in there.

For years now I’ve wondered what God’s purpose is in the soul-searing mess of de-mentia and other life-mangling experienc-es, and I’ve come to believe the purpose is just that: to sear one’s soul and to mangle one’s life so that at some point each one of us can learn how to serve by the simple act of putting our hand on someone else’s shoulder. n

AnotherMan’sShoulder

David Clark is available to speak to groups. Email

[email protected] or call (803) 528-0740.




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Visit us at your local McDonald’s at:340 Longs Pond Rd., Lexington, SC1011 South Lake Dr., Lexington, SC1770 South Lake Dr., Lexington, SC250 Columbia Ave., Lexington, SC

4364 Augusta Rd., West Columbia, SC2700 Emanuel Church Rd., West Columbia, SC659 Columbia Ave., Chapin, SC210 W. Columbia Ave., Batesburg, SC

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real eggsWe use USDA Grade A eggs for our Egg McMuffin®. Your local McDonald’s cracks the egg fresh on the grill in a circular ring to achieve the iconic round egg shape. The Egg White Delight McMuffin uses 100% liquid egg whites with no additives or fillers. We cook the egg whites fresh on the grill in liquid margarine.


Celebrate

2.14.15

Lexington 803-957-2422 • Columbia 803-413-9313 • www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com

Turkey Chili1-1/4 lbs. lean ground turkey 1 large onion, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1 (1.25-oz.) envelope chili seasoning mix 1 (12-oz.) can beer 1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 green bell pepper, chopped 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained and

rinsed 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce 3/4 tsp. salt

Toppings as desired: shredded Cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, sliced fresh jalapeños

Cook first 4 ingredients in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring often, 8-10 minutes or until turkey crumbles and is no longer pink. Pour in beer and cook 2 minutes, stirring occa-

sionally. Spoon mixture into a 5 1/2-quart slow cooker; add corn and next 6 ingredients, stir-ring until well blended. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Serve with desired toppings.

Beef Tacos2 lbs. boneless beef chuck roast, cut into

1-inch cubes 1 tsp. salt 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil 1Tbsp. chili powder 1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste 2 cups beef broth 1 small white onion, chopped 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce 1/2 medium-size green bell pepper,

chopped1 tsp. ground cumin 1/2 tsp. pepper Flour or corn tortillas, warmed Toppings as desired: shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream

Sprinkle beef evenly with salt. Cook beef in batches, in hot oil in a Dutch oven over me-dium-high heat, 5-7 minutes or until browned on all sides. Remove beef, reserving drippings in Dutch oven. Add 1 Tbsp. chili powder to Dutch oven and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add 2 cups beef broth and stir, scraping bits from bottom of Dutch

oven. Return beef to Dutch oven and stir. Place beef mixture in a 4 1/2-quart slow cooker. Add onion and next 4 ingredients. Cook on high 4 hours, or on low 6 hours or until beef is tender. Serve with warm tortillas and desired toppings.

Slow Cooker Candy1 (16-oz.) package salted dry roasted

peanuts1 (16-oz.) package unsalted dry roasted

peanuts1 (12-oz.) package semi-sweet chocolate

bits1 (4-oz.) German chocolate bar1 (32-oz.) package white almond bark

Pour peanuts in bottom of slow cooker and add other ingredients. Cook on low for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Place rounded spoonfuls onto wax paper and cool completely.

Slow Cooker Recipes



For people with severe aortic stenosis, there’s hope with transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) at Lexington Medical Heart Center. Our experienced cardiovascular team works together to provide this less invasive treatment option to those who are not candidates for open heart surgery. Combining clinical expertise with the most advanced treatments and protocols is another way one of the nation’s leading heart programs is here to serve you.

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New HopeWhen Open Heart Surgery Isn’t An Option

THE BEAT GOES ON AT LEXINGTON MEDICAL HEART CENTER

HeartCenter_TAVR_8-375x10-875ad.indd 1 11/12/14 3:18 PM

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Lexington Life Magazine- Jan 15