K12 TUITIONFREE CHARTER SCHOOL IN LEXINGTON, SC!
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Happy Holidays Lexington!
December is here, and it’s hard to believe that 2025 is almost over. The beginning of December might be the busiest time of the year. Wrapping up Thanksgiving and preparing for Christmas is exhausting. What better way to take a break from the hustle and bustle than by pausing to eat a Christmas cookie? I’m not a big cookie eater by nature. An occasional chocolate chip cookie is about it for me. Christmas time is a whole different matter, however. Every Christmas when my Grandma and Pap Pap would come to visit, Grandma would bring three metal tins full of Christmas cookies that she had baked. The tins were always Christmas themed, and she would layer the cookies with wax paper. There were a variety of cookies, and everyone in the family had their favorites. My brother and I loved the sugar cookies that Grandma used a cookie cutter for, and then iced them with different colors. There were green Christmas trees, white stars, red stockings, yellow bells, and white snowmen. As soon as we helped them unload the car, my brother and I raided the tin. I prefer to dunk my Christmas cookies in ice cold milk before eating them. There was something magical that happened when dough and icing mixed with chilled milk inside your mouth. Cookie Monster-like sounds would begin, and the feast was on. Oh, how I miss those Christmas cookies and, more importantly, the loved ones who baked and shared them with me.
Enjoy the Christmas season and cherish the memories you’re creating with your children and grandchildren today. They will last a lifetime.
Voting for the Best of Lexington 2026 ends December 15th, so make sure to vote for your favorites! Local businesses are what support the Lexington community, I encourage everyone to shop locally. Thanks for reading Lexington Life Magazine, I appreciate your time and never take that for granted.
Have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful Yuletide season!
Todd Shevchik
CALENDAR OFevents
DECEMBER
Friday, December 5 - Sunday, December 14
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Village Square Theatre | 105 Caughman Rd. Lexington
Adapted from the bestselling book, this delightful comedy will entertain the whole family. For tickets visit villagesquaretheatre.com.
Saturday, December 6
Santa at Wingard’s Market
Wingard’s Market | 1403 N. Lake Dr. | Lexington 11 am – 3 pm
Santa and Mrs. Claus are ready to hear everyone’s Holiday wishes. For more information visit wingardsmarket.com.
Saturday, December 6
St. Nicholas Festival
Pilgrim Lutheran Church | 1430 N. Lake Dr. Lexington | 5 pm
Enjoy food trucks, shopping, crafts, music, and a special visit from St. Nicholas. Bring non-perishable food items to donate to Pilgrim’s Pantry. Visit wearepilgrim.net for more information.
Sunday, December 7
Christmas Parade
108 W Main St.| Lexington 3 pm
Join the Town of Lexington and the Lexington Jaycees for the annual Christmas Parade down Main Street. Get in the Christmas spirit by watching an array of parade floats make their way through downtown.
Thursday, December 11
Holiday Mini Market
Wellmore of Lexington | 200 Wellmore Dr. Lexington | 10 am – 5 pm
From a hot cocoa bar to endless local vendors to the sweet sense of holiday cheer, this is the place to be. All donations benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
Thursday, December 11
Merry on Main
Downtown Lexington 5 pm – 9 pm
Hallmark-on-Main moment with twinkling lights, festive storefronts, and small-town magic. Sip and shop your way down Main Street with local participating businesses.
Saturday, December 13, and
Sunday, December 14
Lexington Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker Lexington Two Performing Arts Center 3205 Platt Springs Rd. | West Columbia
The Nutcracker, featuring Lexington Youth Ballet dancers and professional guest artists, will bring this time-honored tradition of the Christmas season to Lexington County. For tickets visit theacademyoflyb.com.
Saturday, December 13, and Sunday, December 14
The 38th Annual Columbia Christmas Pageant
First Baptist Church | 1306 Hampton St. | Columbia
Sunday, December 14
Boots for Tots – Line Dancing & Toy Drive
Taylor Plantation | 127 Taylor Ln. | Lexington 6:30 pm
This Christmas spectacular is a family tradition to usher in the Christmas Season. Admission is free but you need a ticket to enter. For more information visit columbiachristmaspageant.com.
Join Scoot ‘N Boots and Omnipresent DJ & Lighting for an evening of music and line dancing. Bring an unwrapped children’s gift for a $5 Voucher off any future line dance event at Taylor’s Plantation.
Tuesday, December 16
Historically Speaking: Christmas Traditions
Lexington County Library
5440 Augusta Rd. | Lexington | 6:30 pm
Learn about the Christmas traditions of Lexington County in the 19th century. In partnership with the Lexington County Museum (ages 14+). For more information visit lexcolibrary.com.
Monday, December 22
Holiday Blood Drive
Seven Oaks Park | 200 Leisure Lane Columbia | 8 am – 1 pm
Give the gift of life this holiday season. Visit icrc.net for more information. n
Group
faithMATTERS
PASTOR KEN JUMPER
The Harvest
God Encounters of (the) Christmas Kind
How can you not love Christmas? And be amazed at the numerous God Encounters recorded on the pages of the Christmas Story.
The miraculous and amazing story of God sending His Son, Jesus, to the earth so that the petition between God and us could be removed. Yes! We can be forgiven for our sins and shortcomings and come into a relationship with our loving Savior, Jesus Christ. What a story!
I love the God Encounters: the angel speaking with a frightened young girl named Mary saying she’s going to have a very special child. The angels appearing in a heavenly choir singing to a group of chilly shepherds on a cold winter’s night, I’m sure that was a concert they will never forget.
And what about when the Lord warns the wise men from returning to the King and protects the life of our newborn Savior? God is always looking out for us. And my favorite announcement, can you imagine Joseph’s surprise when God told him his soon-to-be bride was pregnant? Oh, What a Night!
I love the Story of Christmas so much. It has been one I have enjoyed and valued for all my life.
But let me pursue another line of thinking for a moment and ask you a personal question. Have you ever had a God Encounter? Do you remember it and how special it was to you? I’ve had several. They have all been truly unforgettable and changed my life.
So, let me ask, if you can’t remember ever having a God Encounter, then have one this Christmas.
If your former God Encounter is just a forgotten experience and childhood memory, then perhaps it is time to have another. Maybe you have heard stories from others, but never actually experienced one for yourself. They are real, you know. And the real ones mark your life and make you different afterwards.
God Encounters are the most precious gifts you can ever receive. Maybe it is time for you to have another one this Christmas! Selah (think about it). n
HARVEST CHURCH
4865 Sunset Blvd, Lexington • the-harvest.org
In-Person: Sundays at 9 am and 10:30 am; Wednesdays at 7 pm Online: Sundays at 10:30 am; Wednesdays at 7 pm youtube.com/theharvestchurch
LEXINGTONleader
by Mary Ann Hutcheson
Kirk Jenkins Lexington Health CEO
Kirk Jenkins is set to become the new President and CEO of Lexington Health on January 1, 2026. Jenkins, who joined the organization in 2013, has been serving as the senior vice president of the Physician Network since 2015.
A graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from The Citadel in 2000, Jenkins later earned his MBA from Clemson University in 2003. His background includes a substantial tenure as a healthcare administrator in the United States Air Force from 2004 to 2013, where he held various operational leadership and strategic planning roles. His experiences have equipped him with a deep understanding of the healthcare market, organizational structure, quality care, strategic goals, and corporate culture—elements essential for his leadership at Lexington Health.
Hailing from West Columbia, Jenkins is rooted in the local community. He was born at Lexington Medical Center and grew up just minutes from the hospital. Although he left to attend The Citadel, he has always maintained a strong connection to his hometown. Watching the area flourish during his visits back home, he has been particularly impressed by how the hospital has evolved alongside the community. Jenkins believes that the rebranding to Lexington Health reflects the comprehensive range of services offered throughout the Midlands.
His journey back to the hospital where he was born stems from a concurrence of personal experiences and a profound belief in teamwork. A pivotal insight that shaped his career path came from conversations with his Citadel roommate’s uncle, a healthcare administrator. This connection sparked Jenkins’ interest in healthcare administration, leading to what he describes as a threefold appeal to the profession.
Firstly, he emphasizes the opportunity to serve. “Healthcare is clearly a great service, and what we’re here to do every
day,” he said, ex pressing his de sire to contribute meaningfully to the commu nity. Secondly, Jenkins val ues teamwork highly, liken ing the work environment at Lexington Health to “the ultimate team sport,” where diverse backgrounds and skills unite to deliver quality service. His experiences in the military, at The Citadel, and through sports have all facilitated his affinity for collaborative environments.
The third appeal is leveraging his business knowledge within his healthcare role. Jenkins finds joy in being part of an organization filled with dedicated and intelligent professionals. He describes the work atmosphere as phenomenal and takes pride in the exceptional team dynamic cultivated at Lexington Health.
Outside of work, Jenkins prioritizes spending time with family, which includes his wife and three children: daughter Kate, son Luke, and son Cooper. They enjoy activities like hiking, biking, time outdoors, and time with friends.
Reflecting on his new role, Jenkins em phasizes a commitment to building on the foundation laid since 1971. “My goal is to continue to provide the great service that we’ve provided to this local community,” he shared. With a focus on the Midlands, he reiterates the importance of the rela tionships developed with patients and the trust established over the years. Jenkins sees his role as an opportunity to support and collaborate with his talented col leagues while remaining dedicated to the community he cherishes.
In essence, Jenkins is excited to lead Lexington Health forward, maintaining a steadfast emphasis on service to friends, family, and neighbors.n
KINARD LAW GROUP
s a young boy, Murry Kinard, founder and owner of Kinard Law Group, moved to Lexington with his parents. He attended intermediate, middle, and high schools in Lexington. Like many Lexington teens, his first job was right in town, serving ice cream cones at Hite’s Dairy Bar, a be-
From that early start, Lexington and its people have remained at the heart of everything Kinard does. “Serving the people of this community and trying to do the best job we can are the main objectives,”
The connections with Lexington run deep. “Personally, I’ve always prided myself on being a part of the community,” said Kinard, “when our kids were young, we were involved in their recreational activities and youth groups. I’ve coached youth sports
and thoroughly enjoyed it. We’ve been involved at Lexington Baptist Church, where I grew up. I’ve been engaged in the community, personally, my entire career.”
With extensive professional experience in family law, criminal defense, personal injury, and workers’ compensation, the practice endeavors to efficiently and effectively find solutions for each individual client.
According to Kinard, there are two values that set his firm apart: personally connecting with the local community and seeking solutions for those in the community who need help.
After completing high school in Lexington, Kinard graduated from Lander College in Greenwood, South Carolina, where he played basketball, while he majored in political science and served as student body vice president his senior year. Kinard returned to Lexington and the Midlands to
enroll at the University of South Carolina School of Law. Once he earned his Juris Doctor degree, he clerked for the Honorable Thomas L. Hughston in Greenwood, South Carolina.
While in Greenwood, Kinard met and later married his wife Amy, a registered nurse, and Kinard’s strong ties with the Lexington community compelled them to relocate to the area. He accepted a position in a local law firm, and within two years, he became a partner in that practice, which was then renamed Walker, Morgan, and Kinard.
“It was the experiences with them,” Kinard said, “working with clients, helping people on a day-to-day basis, and interacting with people on a day-to-day basis that was a big part of what led me to do this type of work.”
Ten years later, Kinard decided to establish his own private law firm. “My wife helped keep the books, we had one person that answered the phones,” he recalled, “and we had four rooms in the little building we were in.” Kinard continued to practice law in the firm he established in Lexington for two more decades, while growing through the addition of attorneys and honing his expertise in domestic, civil, and criminal litigation.
In 2023, he decided to found the present-day practice: Kinard Law Group. With four lawyers on staff, “We are a firm that does a lot of family court work and personal
injury work and other things,” Kinard said, “but we’re a firm that prides ourselves on listening to clients, hearing the concerns of clients, and then trying to address those concerns in the most efficient way.”
Additionally, Kinard serves as a mediator in litigation cases - custody disputes, divorce proceedings, etc. In reference to this, he said, “I think what motivates me is that I like to think I am a problem solver. I like to think that, if I can understand the issues and understand the concerns, that I can help to get a solution.”
“Sometimes in order to get that solution, we have to try cases,” he continued. “We have to have somebody else decide them, but oftentimes, if we can understand the issues and the personalities and other things, we can get cases resolved. One of the reasons I enjoy mediating cases is because we help get problems solved. These are people’s lives that we’re talking about, obviously, and this impacts various areas of their lives and their children’s lives.”
A particular case Kinard recalled having to litigate was a lawsuit involving injured children who were removed from the care of their parents. The Department of Social Services resisted placing the children into the care of Kinard’s clients who were family members of the children. To legally allow for this change, due process had to occur. The ordeal lasted for several years, and the children were eventually removed
from foster care and placed with the caring family members. This family continues to come visit Kinard, and he is pleased to see that the children are growing and thriving in a safe, loving environment.
One satisfied client describes the Kinard Law Group as a “very professional law firm. I was very impressed at the outcome of our first hearing, which set the pace for the rest of the case. This firm does a lot of mediations, too, which, in my opinion, allows the firm to be better prepared to settle the case fairly, avoiding more legal fees. I would recommend this firm to anyone having a family court matter.”
The Kinard Law Group is located in the landmark building of the former Cinnamon Hill Restaurant, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kinard recalls visiting friends there during his teen years and enjoying their renowned cuisine as an adult.
Kinard looks ahead with optimism and a strong sense of purpose. “I think our future is to continue to serve this community,” he said. A dedicated husband and father of three, with son Harrison and daughters Bryce and Ellie, he looks forward to the day when his oldest son, who is an attorney working for a South Carolina Circuit Court Judge, can join him as an attorney in the firm. “It’ll be something that will be here, and hopefully, something that he will do for another generation.” n
“I think what motivates me is that I like to think I am a problem solver. I like to think that, if I can understand the issues and understand the concerns, that I can help to get a solution.”
JILL SMITH & ASSOCIATES COUNSELING
426 S Lake Drive, Lexington jsacounseling.com * 803-814-5559
MENTAL HEALTH CHECKUP
Greetings, Lexington Life family!
I wonder if you feel like I do this time of year. I’m excited, with goals to have things perfect at home: tasteful and magical decorations, healthy and delicious food coming out of the oven, the ideal snacks (some healthy, some not), and the perfect gifts ordered, received in time, and thoughtfully wrapped.
Then, I find myself morphing into procrastination, fatigue, a less-is-more, realistic, and an “I’ll do the holidays my way” vibe.
When you add in all the different categories of holiday pressure - gala and party clothing/shoes/jewelry, shopping for gifts, returning, budgeting, traffic avoiding, inviting, thanking, connecting. I mean, wow.
Just taking the time to write these words is helping me to cope with the whiplash of my internal world. It’s a time of year when society and tradition ask us to do the near impossible, and when, frankly, many of us want to do the near impossible - until we don’t. And we realize the impossible is, well, impossible.
Would I rather November and December be holiday-free and our tradition of creating magic everywhere we look suddenly disappear? No way. But I like the idea of welcoming my humanity. Some days I’m into it and some days I’m not. And that is all ok. Whatever you decide is ok, too. Agreed? n
Cooking with Wilson Stirring up Smiles
by Abigail Harris
A few years ago, when Amanda Farwick first handed her toddler, Wilson, a spoon in the kitchen, she wasn’t thinking about cookbooks or social media followings. She was merely following her son’s therapists’ advice. Wilson was born with Down syndrome, and he used these therapies to improve various skill sets. He had been working through early intervention therapies when the therapists encouraged Amanda to have him pretend to cook. But Amanda, who loved cooking, had another idea. Why pretend, she thought, when we can actually do it?
From then on, two-year-old Wilson began to work alongside his mom in the family’s kitchen, learning how to stir real ingredients, use tongs to serve real food, and practice balancing while standing on a stool at the counter. What began as therapy exercises soon became an integral part of their daily routine. “It dawned on me that maybe cooking was going to be how he best
learned,” Amanda recalled. “When you think about it, cooking really engages so many different skills. Fine and gross motor skills are used for scooping, pouring, lifting, and sorting bowls or ingredients, standing at the counter, cutting, opening packets, and measuring, just to name a few. Cooking together also provides the opportunity for math and speech development, counting, identifying objects and colors, following simple and multi-step directions, reading ingredients, and so much more. There are so many different skills that you can build on over time.”
For the Farwick family, independence has always been the goal. Amanda and her husband, Steve, wanted Wilson to develop life skills that would help him grow into a confident and capable individual. Cooking offered the perfect setting because in the kitchen, Wilson could practice the various activities his therapists encouraged, all while making it fun and engaging. Before
long, Wilson wasn’t just practicing; he was actively participating and doing a great job. Cooking became an integrated part of the family’s day, and Wilson looked forward to helping prepare each new dish.
As Amanda shared their cooking adventures online, people took notice. Families, teachers, and therapists connected with Wilson’s journey, and the Farwicks’ following quickly grew. “We have almost 100,000 followers across all social media platforms,” said Amanda, “inspiring people of all abilities to learn together in the kitchen. Many of our fans asked about a cookbook, so we decided to put together a cookbook of some of our favorite recipes to make together in the kitchen.”
With Amanda as the author, Steve as the photographer, and Wilson as the sous chef and “Chief Inspiration Officer,” the family collaborated on their very first cookbookCooking with Wilson. The family emphasized that this is not a business run by staff;
it’s a family project. Together, they bring their mission of inclusivity and capability to life. The book is filled with favorite family recipes that are easy to follow and designed to encourage learning and independence in the kitchen. For Wilson, the kitchen has become a stage. He loves entertaining and takes pride in having a job to do. Whether he’s stirring a bowl full of ingredients, devising a new recipe, or posing for the camera, he brings enthusiasm to every task.
Behind the project is a close-knit family. Steve, originally from Ohio, is a sports fan with a special love for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Amanda, a South Carolina native, brings her southern roots and planning skills to the family. Wilson, now nine, is happiest when he’s helping and entertaining, taking pride in having a job to do.
Since releasing the cookbook, the Farwicks have been touched by the stories and photos shared by readers. Families send pictures of meals they’ve made together, and parents talk about the fun their children had while following the recipes in the cookbook. “Our most impactful moments are when we hear from teachers or therapists that they are using our cookbook to help their students learn in the classroom or in a therapy session,” Amanda explained. “We are now tailoring some of our cooking videos to be more classroom friendly.” These recipes will include budget-friendly and larger-scale options to accommodate a classroom-size audience, as well as recipes that don’t require an oven or stove, since most classrooms do not have these appliances available.
At the heart of Cooking with Wilson is a simple philosophy: people of all abilities can learn and contribute to the culinary experience and beyond. Cooking is just one example of how inclusion can happen in
everyday life. Amanda shared, “The philosophy behind our business is helping others to see the importance of gaining basic life skills and to show how people of all abilities can learn together in the kitchen. We promote inclusion in all aspects of life and seek to find ways that all individuals can make meaningful contributions.”
For the Farwick family, Cooking with Wilson is more than recipes on a page. It’s the story of how everyday activities can turn into opportunities for growth. It’s proof that change can start at home, in simple and meaningful ways. And it’s a reminder that independence is built step by step, sometimes while standing on a stool, stirring a bowl, and smiling at the joy of being part of it all. To keep everyone updated on their activities, the Farwicks regularly post cooking videos and additional information on their website, cookingwithwilson.com. n
Valid on full-priced merchandise only. Not valid on previous purchases, sale items, or in conjunction with any other coupons or offers. Excludes: all wicker, deep seated cushions, all outdoor furniture (including polywood furniture, adirondacks, and metal furniture), all accent furniture, red and blue tag merchandise, food, wine, cemetery memorials, pre-made floral wreaths and arrangements, and custom floral orders. Other exclusions may apply, see store for details. Coupon must be redeemed at time of purchase. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Expires 12/31/2025.
Celebrates 30 Years
Established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Lexington One Educational Foundation is a source of growth and support for Lexington County School District One. Their mission is to support the district’s educational programs and enrich the quality of life in the Lexington community by raising and managing funds. Annually, the Foundation’s board, staff, and volunteers work to build partnerships with individuals and corporations in order to benefit Lexington District One students, teachers, and schools.
Since its inception, the Lexington One Educational Foundation has grown and evolved into a supportive nonprofit organization to Lexington District One. Each year, the Foundation provides educational and need-based grants for Lexington District One students, teachers, and schools, thanks to donations from caring donors.
A few highlights of the Lexington One Educational Foundation’s accomplishments over the last 30 years include:
• $567,126 to 735 Lexington District One graduating seniors in college scholarships or grants.
• Establishment of the Lexington District One Virtual School in 2004, thanks to Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America and Michelin North America.
• More than $213,700 in Bucks for Books Grants over the last nine years to strengthen students’ literacy skills.
• More than $215,000 in Innovation Grants in 11 years to elementary and middle schools for creative, unique learning projects.
• Twenty-one years and $100,000+ in-
vested via Michelin Golden Apple Teacher Grants to support students and classroom learning.
• STEM-focused robotics grants totaling $135,000+ thanks to the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Michelin, the Walmart Foundation, and other local donors who have chosen to invest in students’ STEM learning.
• Health Fund Grants of over $50,000 to support student health and Lexington District One nurses with spot vision screeners, digital thermometers, and more.
• Twenty-one years of honoring the top academically ranked graduating seniors through the Celebration of Excellence in Education.
• More than $2.8 million raised in 22 years through the Lexington Emergency/Education Assistance Program for need-based and educational grants.
All of this and more has been possible thanks to the passion and vision of the Lexington One Educational Foundation Board of Directors and staff. Each year, they work closely with Lexington District One leaders to identify areas of need where financial grants can have a positive impact on Lexington One students, teachers, and schools.
The Foundation’s executive director, Julie Anderson Washburn, shared, “It’s amazing to look back at the impact that the Edu-
cational Foundation has had in supporting and shaping the district through the years. We have been extremely fortunate to have dedicated board members leading the organization for many years. They are local leaders who are passionate about serving and supporting the students, teachers, and schools in Lexington District One.”
To find out how you can be a part of the Foundation’s efforts, contact Washburn at 803- 821-1008 or jwashburn@ lexington1. net or visit lex1edfound.org. n
Dr. Keith Price, Chris Rice, Roger Kuperman, Katrina Bryant, Laura McMahon, Julie Anderson Washburn, Melissa Moore, Connie McFarland, Lisa McMeekin Phillips, Will Salley, Rosemary Lally Wilson, Chris Shealy, Joyce Carter, Dr. Carl Fulmer, Kimberly Freeman, and Nicholas Pizzuti.
Best Accounting Firm
Deese & Company
Dooley & Company
Rish & Enzastiga
Best Aesthetic Practice
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
Lexington Roots Salon & Bridal
Vivid Aesthetics
Best Aesthetic Spa
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
Enhance Image Med Spa
SC My Care
Best Afterschool Program
Empire Gymnastics
Palmetto Athletic Center
Safari After School
Best Allergy/ENT Practice
Allergy Partners of the Midlands
CENTA ENT & Allergy
Palmetto ENT & Allergy
Best Ambulance Service
First Priority Medical Transport For Life Medical Transport
MedTrust Medical Transport
Best Apartment Complex
Langley Pointe Apartments
Lullwater at Saluda Pointe
York Woods at Lake Murray
Best Art Classes
AR Workshop
Canvases with Candace
Lexington Paint & Pour
Best Assisted Living Facility
Oakleaf Village of Lexington
The Village at Southlake
Wellmore of Lexington
Best Attorney
Amy Cofield, Amy Cofield Law
Kirk Morgan, MSH
Rick Hall, The Rick Hall Law Firm
Best Attorney: Criminal Defense
Kinard Law Group
Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr.
Saluda Law
Best Attorney: Elder Law Firm
Amy Cofield Law
McCutchen McLean
Stratton & Reynolds
Best Attorney: Family Law Firm
Jewitte Dooley Law
Moore Bradley Myers
The Farley Law Firm
Best Attorney: Litigation Firm
Bland Richter
Morgan, Slaughter, & Hatliwanger
Salley Law Firm
Best Attorney: Personal Injury
Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr.
Lyle Law Firm
Salley Law Firm
Best Attorney: Probate/Estate
Amy Cofield Law
Clark Law Firm
Lawyer Lisa
Best Attorney: Real Estate
Amy Cofield Law
Blair Cato Pickren Casterline
The Templeton Law Firm
Best Attorney: Workers Comp
Atkins Law Firm
Salley Law Firm
Smith & Jones Law
Best Auto Body Shop
CarStar Lexington Collision
Ellison Collision & Customs
Gilbert Paint & Body
Best Auto Performance Shop
CarStar Lexington Collision
North Lake Auto Repair
Rev Automotive
Best Auto Repair Shop: Domestic
North Lake Auto Repair
Old School Automotive & Tire
West Main Auto
Best Auto Repair Shop: Foreign
Christian Brothers Automotive
Das Autohaus
German Autowerks
Best Auto Service Dealership
Herndon Chevrolet
Jim Hudson Ford
Peter Boulware Toyota
Best Bank
First Citizens Bank
First Community Bank
First Reliance Bank
Best Bar with Live Music
Murphy’s Grill
O’Hara’s Public House
Savage Craft Ale Works
Best Barber Shop
Lexington Barber Shop
Rock Star Barber Shop
Southern Cuts Barber Shop
Best Bath/Kitchen Fixtures
Bath & Bronze
Gateway Supply Co.
Stroud Supply
Best BBQ
Hudson’s Smokehouse
Maurice’s Piggy Park
Willie Jewell’s Bar-B-Q
Best Breakfast
Creekside Restaurant
Eggs Up Grill
O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe
Best Burger
O’Hara’s Public House
Ramblin’ Mule
Rush’s
Best Car Wash
Mad Dog Mobile Detailing
Marty’s Car Wash
Take 5 Car Wash
Best Carpet Store
Door to Door Floors
Floor Boys
Floor Mart
Best Catering Company
El Jimador
Hudson’s Classic Catering
Maurice’s Event Catering
Best Charter School
American Leadership Academy
Gray Collegiate Academy
Odyssey Online Learning
Best Chiropractor
Bigbie Chiro/Carolina West Clinic
Life Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Old Mill Chiropractic
Best Coffee Shop
Krafty Koffee
Loveland Coffee
O’Hara’s Bakery Café
Best Coin or Collectible Dealer
Gilbert Coin
Golden Eagle
Palmetto Cards
Best Columbia Attraction
Edventure
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
SC State Museum
Best Commercial Contractor
Absolute Roofing Solutions
Carolina Gold Construction
Hill Construction Company
Best Concierge Medicine
Accel Health MUSC
Living Well Family Medicine
SC My Care
Best Consignment Shop
Ivy House Antique Mall
Lexington Antiques
Magnolia Resale
Best Counseling/Therapy
Clements Counseling & Consulting
Jill Smith & Associates
Moonbug Pediatric Therapy
Best CPA
Ann Lang, CPA Deese & Company
Dooley & Company
Best Credit Union: Banking
Founders Credit Union
Palmetto Citizens
SC State Credit Union
Best Credit Union: Loans
Founders Credit Union
Palmetto Citizens
SC State Credit Union
Best Custom Home Builder
Epic Homes
Magnolia Custom Homes
Tytan Homes
Best Dance Company
Dance One Studio
South Carolina Dance Company
Stepping Out Dance Studio
Best Day Spa
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
Enhance Image Med Spa
Girl Find Your Glow
Best Daycare
Creative Beginnings
Learn 2 Grow
Pisgah CDM
Best Dentist: Adults
Sherry Powell Dentistry
Southern Shores Dental
Sunset Dental
Best Dentist: Cosmetic
Palmetto Dental Associates
Robinson Dental
Southern Shores Dental
Best Dentist: Kids
Midlands Pediatric Dentistry
Palmetto Smiles
Wild Smiles
Best Dermatologist
Columbia Dermatology
Columbia Skin Clinic
Palmetto Dermatology
Best Dessert
Cribb’s Sandwich & Sweet Shop
Crumbl Cookies
O’Hara’s Bakery Café
Best Discount Store
Costless Outlet
Dollar General
Five Below
Best Dog Friendly Rest./Bar
Goodfellas Grill & Bar
O’Hara’s Public House
Old Mill Brewpub
Best Dry Cleaner
Lexington Dry Cleaners
Tripp’s Fine Cleaners
Zebra Cleaners
Best Electrician
All In Electrical
Cassell Brothers
Starnes Electrical
Best Employee Benefits
Beckett Financial Group
Signum HR
Theresa Boynton, Aflac
Best Engineering Firm
Mead & Hunt
Southern Steel Engineers
Timmerman Engineering
Best Esthetician
Gillian Pavan, Orion Skin Studio
Jodi Munkascy, Vivid Aesthetics
Zoe McDowell, Girl Find Your Glow
Best Event Venue
Corley Mill House & Gardens
Icehouse Amphitheatre
Southern Oaks
Best Exterminator
Modern Exterminating
Pest Management Systems
Rocket Pest
Best Family Entertainment
24 Hour Pickleball
Flight Deck Restaurant
Odom’s Mobile Petting Zoo
Best Family Practice
Lake Murray Family
Lexington Family Practice
Pinner Clinic
Best Fence Company
Bring It Back Exterior Concierge
Kyzer Custom Fences
Palmetto Pros
Best Fine Dining
Cork & Cleaver
Ember Lexington Private Property
Best Fitness Center 24 Hour Pickleball
HOTWORX
Powerhouse Pilates
Best Florist
Lexington Florist
Storey’s Florist
Tim’s Touch
Best Furniture Store
Marty Rae’s of Lexington
Scott’s Furniture Company
Wood & Fabric
Best Garden Center
First Priority Garden Center
Seven Oaks Plant Shop
Wingard’s Market
Best Gastroenterologist
Carolina Colonoscopy Center
Columbia Gastroenterology
Consultants in Gastroenterology
Best Glass Store
Absolute Glass
Bingswanger Glass
Sheppard’s Glass Shop
Best Golf Course
Charwood Country Club
Country Club of Lexington
Golden Hills Golf & Country Club
Best Group Fitness Studio
Club Pilates Lexington
HOTWORX
ISI Elite Training
Best Gun & Ammunition Store
JCs Outdoors
McCoy Ace Hardware
Palmetto State Armory
Best Gym
ISI Elite Training
Planet Fitness
StrongHER
Best Hair Salon: Adults
Charlie Mack Salon
Palmetto Roots Salon
Raven Salon & Bridal
Best Hair Salon: Kids
Dye Hard Barber & Beauty
Lexington Barber Shop
Snip-its Haircuts for Kids
Best Hairstylist
Angie Williams, Palmetto Roots Salon
Raven Wright, Raven Salon & Bridal
Victoria Enell, Charlie Mack Salon
Best Handyman Service
Bring It Back Exterior Concierge
Dean & Done
Mr. Handy
Best Happy Hour
Barrio Taco
O’Hara’s Public House
Twisted Roots
Best Hardscaping/Lighting Services
Elite Lawn & Landscape
South Ground Supply Co.
Wonderly Lights
Best Healthy Eating Restaurant
Clean Eatz
Momma Rabbit’s
TakoSushi
Best Hearing Healthcare
Affordable Hearing
Lake Murray Hearing
Palmetto ENT & Allergy
Best Heart Doctor
Dr. Garrison Morgan, MUSC
Dr. J. Kevin Baugh, Prisma
Dr. Will Brabham, LMC
Best Heating & Air Company
All American Heating & Air
Cassell Brothers
Palmetto Air Conditioning
Best Home Accessories
Ivy House Antique Mall
M Gallery Interiors
Wood & Fabric
Best Home Builder
Blythe Custom Homes
Conquest Homes
Mungo Homes
Best Home Furnishings
La-Z-Boy Home Furnishings
Marty Rae’s of Lexington
Scott’s Furniture Company
Best Home Health
Assisting Hands Home Care
Hands & Hearts Home Care
Wellhaven Home Care Columbia
Best Hospice Care
Agape Care SC
Amedisys Home Health Care
Medical Services of America
Best Hospital System
Lexington Medical Center
Medical University of South Carolina
Prisma Health
Best Ice Cream Shop
Cold Stone Creamery
Lick’s Ice Cream
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
Best Insurance Agent
Brent Herring, Herring Ins.
Chris Tidwell, The Tidwell Agency
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Auto
Farm Bureau Insurance
Herring Insurance Services
Misty Stathos State Farm
Best Insurance: Health
Brandon Hill, Beckett Financial
Jeff Howle, Health Markets Ins.
Misty Stathos, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Home Owner’s
Hal Girard, State Farm Ins.
Laurie Griner, Allstate Ins.
Misty Stathos, State Farm Ins.
Best Insurance: Life
Brad Tyner Mutual of Omaha
Brandon Hill, Beckett Financial
Thrivent Financial, Lexington
Best Interior Design
DBT Interiors
Mason Alexander Interiors
Paige Butler Interior Styling
Best Internal Medicine
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
Carolina Internal Medicine
Mid Carolina Internal Medicine
Best Internet Service Provider
Carolina Connect
Comporium
Spectrum
Best Investment Firm
Beckett Financial Group
Blake Insurance & Financial Group
CMC Wealth Management
Best Jewelry Store
Barnes Jewelry
Traditions Fine Jewelers
The Chapman Company
Best Karate/Martial Arts Studio
Legacy Martial Arts
Lexington Jiu Jitsu
Vitali Family Karate
Best Kid Friendly Restaurant
Boho Pizza & Brew
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Flight Deck Restaurant
Best Landscaping Company
Elite Lawn & Landscape
First Priority Landscaping
Saluda Hill Landscapes
Best Landscaping Supply
First Priority Landscaping
Richbourg’s Landscape Supply
South Ground Supply Co.
Best Learning Center
Brain Balance of Lexington
Kumon Math & Reading Center
Mathnasium
Best Manufactured Housing Co.
Clayton Homes
Home Max
Lexington Discount Homes
Best Margarita
Barrio Tacos
Brothers & Beer
San Jose
Best Marina
Jakes Landing
Lake Murray Marina
Southshore Marina
Best Massage
FLOW Massage
Hand & Stone Massage
Soothing Sessions Massage
Best Mattress Store
Best Mattress
BoxDrop Mattress
Michaelis Mattress
Best Meat Store
Caughman’s Meats
Four Oaks Farm Country Store
Old Timey Meat Market
Best Medical Imaging
Advanced Diagnostics Inc.
LMC, Saluda Pointe
Palmetto Imaging
Best Medical Spa
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Lexington Aesthetics Medical Spa
Best Men’s Clothing Store
Big Oak Farms Boutique
Craig Reagin Clothiers
JCs Outdoors
Best Men’s Health Practice
Alpha Male Men’s Clinic
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
The Men’s Clinic
Best Microbrewery
Angry Fish Brewing Co.
Hazelwood Brewing Co.
The Dales Biergarten
Best Milkshake
Cookout
Freddy’s
Rush’s
Best Mobile Car Detailer
Beebe Luxury Auto Detai
Fenter’s Detail
Luxe Auto Detail
Best Mortgage Company
Chapman Mortgage
Guild Mortgage
Movement Mortgage
Best Mosquito Treatment
Jeffcoat Pest Control
Mosquito Joe of Lake Murray
Pest Management Systems
Best Moving Company
Gamecock Moving
Gentlemen Movers
Two Men & a Truck
Best Music School
Freeway Music
Lexington School of Music
Musician Supply
Best Ob/Gyn Practice
Carolina Women’s Physicians
Elite Gynecology
Lexington Women’s Care
Best Oil Change
Christian Brothers Automotive
Cox Tire
Rev Automotive
Best Ophthalmology Practice
Cardinal Vision
Columbia Eye Clinic
Palmetto Ophthalmology
Best Optometry Practice
Eye Associates of Lexington
My Pharmacy & Optical
Vision Therapy Institute
www.A-ZOutdoor.com/StihlGifts
Best Organic Products
14 Carrot Whole Foods
Clean Juice
Garner’s Natural Life
Best Orthodontist
Davis Orthodontics
The Braces Place
Whitehead Orthodontics
Best Orthopedic Practice
Lexington Orthopaedics
Midlands Orthopaedics
Palmetto Bone & Joint
Best Outdoor Furniture
Carolina Pottery
Costless Outlet
Farmhouse Market & Antiques
Best Outdoor Equipment
A-Z Outdoor Equipment
Carolina Power Equipment
Sparrow & Kennedy
Best Painter
Cola Town Painting
Endless Possibilities
M&A Perfectionist Painters
Best Patio Dining
Nicky’s Pizzeria
O’Hara’s Public House
Old Mill Brew Pub
Best Patio/Sunroom Installers
Carolina Sunrooms
Elite Lawn & Landscape
Patio Enclosures
Best Pediatric Practice
Lexington Pediatric Practice
Palmetto Pediatrics
SouthernMED Pediatrics
Best Periodontist/Endodontist
Palmetto Endodontics
Southern Roots Periodontics
Sunset Periodontics
Best Pet Groomer
Bows & Bandanas
Paws & Relax Petcare
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
Best Pet Hospital
Cherokee Trail Veterinary Hospital
Grace Animal Hospital
Lake Murray Animal Hospital
Best Pet Kennel/Boarder
Paws & Relax Petcare
Sutton’s Southern Pet Retreat
Whiskers & Paws Pet Resort
Best Pet Sitting
Gilbert’s All Paw’s Pet Sitting
Lexington Dog Walk
The Leash Connection
Best Pet Supply Store
Hollywood Feed
Horse Sense Tack & Feed
Lazy Creek Pet Food Center
Best Pharmacy
Medicine Mart Pharmacy
My Pharmacy & Optical
Riley’s Drugs
Best Photographer
A.E. Photography
Cynthia Pace Photography
Lola Dee Photography
Best Physical Therapy Practice
Forged Physical Therapy
Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center
Inshape Physical Therapy & Wellness
Best Pilates/Yoga Instruction
Pink Lotus
Stretch Zone
WRKT
Best Pizza
Bellis House of Pizza
Clara & Ray’s Ristorante Italiano
Libby’s of Lexington
Best Place for Date Night
Barrio Tacos
Bodhi Thai
George Robert’s Wine & Raw Bar
Best Place for Girl’s Night Out
Barrio Tacos
O’Hara’s Public House
TakoSushi
Best Place to Buy a Boat
Captain’s Choice Marine
Doss Marine
Marine 360
Best Place to Buy a Car: New
Herndon Chevrolet
Honda Cars of Columbia
Jim Hudson Ford
Best Place to Buy a Car: Used
Golden Motors
Jim Hudson Ford
Turnage Auto Care Center
Best Place to Buy a Pool
Cannonball Pool
Pete Alewine Pool & Spa
S&S Pools
Best Place to Buy an RV
Blue Compass RV
Brown’s RV Superstore
Camping World
Best Place to Buy Eyeglasses
Envision Family EyeCare
My Pharmacy & Optical
Vision Therapy Institute
Best Place to Buy Hardwood Floors
Floor Boys
Floor Mart West
Kirkland’s Flooring
Best Place to Buy Paint
e.d.’s Paint & Decorating
Lowe’s Home Improvement
Sherwin-Williams Paint Store
Best Place to Buy Propane
Barnes Oil & Propane
Palmetto Propane, Fuels, & Ice
Southern Flame Propane
Best Place to Buy Tires
Old School Automotive & Tire
Rev Auto
Roadrunner Tire & Repair
Best Place to Buy Windows
Central Glass
Pella Window & Doors
Stroud Supply
Best Place to Get Botox
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Lexington Aesthetics Medical Spa
Savvy Aesthetics
Best Place to Sell Gold
Gilbert Coin & Collectible
Jeweler’s Studio
The Chapman Company
Assisting
Michelin Tires
Squeegee
Best Plumbing Company
Delta Plumbing
Howell Plumbing
Smooth Waters Plumbing
Best Pressure Washing Co.
Not Your Average Joe’s
Spray Day
Squeegee Clean
Best Private School
Ben Lippen School
Hammond School
Northside Christian Academy
Best Produce
Four Oaks Farm Country Store
Senn Brothers
WP Rawl
Best Property Management
Company
Rogers Property Management
Scott Properties
Southern Dreams Realty
Best Real Estate Agency: Commercial
Coldwell Banker Commercial Realty
RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Trinity Partners
Best Real Estate Agency:
Residential
Century 21 803 Realty
RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Southern Dreams Realty
Best Real Estate Agent:
Commercial
Angela Cash, Southern Visions
Ben Kelly, NAI Columbia
Scott Davis, Coldwell Banker
Best Real Estate Agent:
Residential
April Stroud, Century 21 803 Realty
Brent Downing, The Downing Group
Danielle Burke, RE/MAX Purpose Driven
Best Residential Contractor
BLB Homes
Bring It Back Exterior Concierge
Hidden Oaks Custom Homes
Best Ribs
Carolina Wings & Rib House
Hudson’s Smokehouse
Maurice’s Piggy Park
Best Roofing Company
Crosby Roofing
Heritage Roofing
Vista Roofing
Best Salad
Momma Rabbit’s
O’Hara’s Public House
Root Cellar
Best Sandwich Shop
Cribb’s Sandwich & Sweet Shop
Momma Rabbit’s
Sully’s Steamers
Best Seafood Restaurant
Catch Seafood
Catfish Johnny’s
George Robert’s Wine & Raw Bar
Best Self-Storage Facility
Covered Up Storage
Devon Self Storage
Gilbert Self Storage
Best Senior Home Care
Assisting Hands Home Care
Hands & Hearts Home Care
McLeod Home Care
Best Senior Living Community
Lake View Retirement Community
Still Hopes Episcopal
Wellmore of Lexington
Best Skilled Nursing Center
Lexington Extended Care
NHC HealthCare
Still Hopes Episcopal
Best Smoothie
Clean Juice
Smoothie King
Tropical Smoothie Café
Best Southern Cooking
Hudson’s Smokehouse
Lizard’s Thicket
The Farmhouse Grill
Best Steak
Mediterranean Café
Outback Steakhouse
Private Property
Best Sushi
Antai Asian Dining
Ganbei Japanese
TakoSushi
Best Sweet Tea
Groucho’s Deli
McAlister’s Deli
Rush’s
Best Tacos
Barrio Tacos
Brothers & Beer
El Jimador
Best Temp. Employment Service
Intersolutions
Roper Staffing
Snelling Staffing
Best Towing Service
Diligent Towing
Freedom Towing
Wingard Towing
Best Tree Removal
Boozer’s Tree Service
Pioneer Tree Service
Sox & Freeman Tree Expert Co.
Best Unique Gift Shop
Blush Boutique & Home
Ivy House Antique Mall
Tenfold Collective
Best Urgent Care
LMC Urgent Care
Novant Health Urgent Care
Veritas Urgent Care
Best Veterinarian Practice
Cherokee Trail Veterinary Hospital
Grace Animal Hospital
Lakeside Veterinary
Best Wait Staff
Barrio Tacos
Libby’s of Lexington
TakoSushi
Best Wedding Venue
Heron Hill
Southern Oaks
Twelve Oaks Estates
Best Weight Loss Program
Cardinal Wellness & Aesthetics
Collaborative Healthcare
Glo Skin Bar & Medical Spa
Best Wigs/Hair Pieces
Becky’s Place Boutique LMC
Merle Norman Chapin
Shimmery Hair & Beauty Bar
Best Window Tinting
Palmetto Pro Tint
Solar Solutions
Tint World
Best Wings
Carolina Wings & Rib House
Goodfellas Grill & Bar
Wings & Ale of Lexington
Best Women’s Clothing Store
The Kindred Boutique
Tulip Boutique
XYZ Boutique
Best Write In
Carolina Tan Factory
Flagship Signs
Hot Rod’s Upholstery
Boost Your Immune System
by Reese Kimmons
During the winter months and flu season, it’s a good idea to boost your immune system. You can do it naturally using herbal remedies available at grocery stores and markets specializing in natural foods. Here are three herbal concoctions you can add to your diet that will give your immunity a lift. If you get sick, these remedies can also lessen the symptoms and may even shorten the duration of the illness.
Elderberry Syrup
The flowers and purple berries produced by the elder tree have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Elderberry is known to help ward off influenza and other viruses and to reduce the symptoms of viral infections when taken within the first two days after symptoms first appear. Elderberry can also be used for the treatment of respiratory infections.
Elderberry syrup can be found in health food stores, natural food markets, farmers’ markets, and online. The syrup often includes other beneficial herbs such as turmeric, cinnamon, clove, and ginger, which add sweetness and enhance the flavor. Turmeric provides an additional bonus as an anti-inflammatory.
You can simply take a tablespoon of elderberry syrup daily throughout the cold and flu season or use the syrup to make a tasty drink. Mix your tablespoon of syrup with some lemon juice and water, add ice, and enjoy.
Garlic and Honey
Garlic has been used for generations to prevent and treat illnesses, including the flu and common cold, because of its antiviral, anti-fungal, and antibacterial qualities.
Adding honey to the garlic helps to improve the taste. The honey also soothes sore throats and upset stomachs. Like garlic, honey is an antiviral and antibacterial compound. Combining honey and garlic is an effective remedy for colds and flu.
One way to combine garlic and honey into a powerful remedy is to finely chop a garlic clove and allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes. This activates the components of garlic that support the immune system. Next, combine the garlic with locally sourced honey. Take a tablespoon of the mixture, swallowing it rather than chewing it.
Ginger Tea
Not only does ginger help protect you from viruses, but it can also soothe an upset stomach, is an anti-inflammatory, and fights infections. If that’s not enough, ginger is antibacterial, anti-fungal, and supports respiratory and heart health as well.
When you use ginger to make a hot tea, it provides soothing warmth and loosens mucus. Ridding yourself of mucus will help you to expel a viral infection from your body.
You can make ginger tea by pouring two cups of boiling water over a knob of ginger and allowing it to sit for at least 10 minutes. A knob is a piece of ginger that measures about an inch. Cutting the knob into pieces will make a more flavorful tea. You may also want to add a half-inch piece of sliced turmeric root (or half a tablespoon of turmeric powder) before pouring in the boiling water to take advantage of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory qualities and spice up your tea a bit.
When the tea is cool enough to drink, add some local honey and lemon juice. You’ll feel the warmth as you enjoy this tasty and beneficial beverage.
Be prepared and proactive
Don’t wait until you feel an illness coming on to gather your natural remedies. Stock up in advance and begin taking advantage of the preventive qualities of these herbal remedies before you get sick. They may help you and your family to ward off illnesses. If you do catch a cold or the flu, they’ll help soothe the symptoms and possibly shorten the duration.
Remember to always consult with your healthcare professional when using herbal remedies in combination with other medications. n
Carolina Wildlife Center
35 Years of Rescue, Rehab, and Release
by Erin Bluvas photos by Juliette Behrends
Lifelong Lexington resident Ashton Blume can’t believe how many times she drove by the Carolina Wildlife Center over the years without realizing it even existed. One year into her tenure at the nonprofit, the Executive Director wants to make sure this one-of-akind rehabilitation facility is known across the state.
“The Carolina Wildlife Center was established in 1989 to rescue, rehabilitate, and release South Carolina wildlife, and we have provided a second chance to more than 100,000 animals over the past 35 years,” Blume said. “I’ve made it my mission to increase public awareness of wildlife conservation and the Center – not just who we are and what we do but also to clear up any misconceptions that many people have.”
One of the most problematic misunderstandings? The widespread assumption that tax-payer dollars help support the Center. In fact, there are zero federal or state funds allocated to the Carolina Wildlife Center (something Blume hopes
to change over time), even though they work closely with government agencies like the Department of Natural Resources and provide ongoing services that are otherwise unavailable services for the state’s wildlife animal residents. Some rescue organizations generate revenue from paid tours, but the Carolina Wildlife Center operates more like a traditional hospital.
Additional misconceptions relate to the animals themselves. Though the Palmetto State is home to numerous organizations that rescue and rehabilitate mammals, the Carolina Wildlife Center is one of few that is licensed to also take in reptiles, certain birds of prey, and songbirds of any kind. Neighboring states like North Carolina and Georgia often rely on the Center as well – calling with rehabilitation questions or bringing them animals they’ve rescued.
The team, which consists of Blume as Executive Director, Director of Operations Jami Sprankle, and an army of volunteers and interns, fills a very specific niche in South Carolina by providing care for the many vulnerable species that live here. The team even plays a role in increasing their population levels by incubating, hatching, and releasing turtle eggs that would have otherwise perished.
The Center is currently home to 14 permanent residents (Education Ambassadors) –non-releasable animals ranging from Screech (goes by the name of Ruby) and Great Horned (Geehow) Owls to the newest addition, an incredibly rare Asian Mountain Tortoise that escaped from its owners’ enclosure. As part of their legal protections and the Center’s permit requirements to care for them, as well as in an effort to educate the public about them, these 14 animals serve as education ambassadors for wildlife conservation –traveling across the Midlands as part of the Center’s educational programming.
The Center also hosts summer camps to educate elementary school-age children about wildlife conservation and provide internships to high school and college students. With opportunities from rehabilitation to marketing and operations, these positions are the perfect pathways for young adults to learn about what it takes to protect these animals as well as the ins and outs of nonprofit organizations. They can also spread the word to other members of their generation – both in regard to the specialized care our
state’s wildlife requires and the challenges nonprofits like the Center face in carrying out their daily activities.
The team has gotten creative about ways to raise money to support their wildlife rehabilitation efforts. They are currently working to expand their educational programming, with plans to double their programs from 75+ in 2025 to over 100 in 2026, and Blume has upped the number of grants they apply for from several a year to several each month. She also applied for the Leadership Lexington County Award earlier this year, which the Center won after a decade as runner up. This award helped facilitate the construction of a new dual owl enclosure, a new anesthesia machine, and enhance the Center’s garden beds – a key piece of their plan to become more self-sustaining.
Like many nonprofits, however, they rely primarily on the generosity of donors.
That’s where awareness and education come in.
“Our ability to continue providing lifesaving care to wildlife in need has stabilized since I started last year and was able to focus on development and fundraising,” Blume said. “However, Carolina Wildlife Center needs serious repair, renovations, and operational funding as we look towards the future and expanding the level of care we can offer, such as with our new anesthesia machine. There will always be expenses, so there will always be pressure to secure the funds needed to support the 3,500 – 5,000 animals that come through our doors annually. I don’t want to fundraise from a place of desperation or pressure; I want to focus on the good we’re doing – the lives we’re saving and the second chances we offer wildlife 365 days a year. By educating the public about our impact, and the absolute necessity of our organization, I have learned that many of them want to help and support us in any way they can. These animals need us and our resources as we continue to encroach on their habitats and take away their homes.”
To learn more, visit carolinawildlife.org. n
Holiday Gift Ideas for Teens
by Taylor Coker
Finding the perfect holiday gifts for teens can be a challenge. You want to buy a cool gift, but nothing too childish - or too adult. Walk that line perfectly with these teenager-approved gift ideas:
Cash, but Creative: Cash is still king. Teenagers always appreciate having extra money to spend on whatever they like. But you can make the presentation something special. Hide cash in a trick puzzle box, fill a cash cannon, or load up a book safe to ramp up the fun.
Cool Gift Cards: Think about what activities your teen might want to do, either alone or with friends, and you have a winning gift card. Movies, clothes, bowling, arcades, fast food, gaming, crafts, makeup, sports - almost anything you can think of you can find a gift card. Remember that many gift cards are also available online for last-minute gifts.
Fun Experiences: There are all kinds of cool experiences available that you might
not have considered as gifts. Rock-climbing gyms, axe-throwing venues, cooking schools, go-kart tracks, driving ranges, fossil fields, and concerts are just a few examples of activities you can either do with them or send them a gift certificate for a class or event.
Subscription Boxes: Keep the giving coming for months to come with subscription boxes. There are so many cool ones out there, from a single month to a full-year subscription length. Sushi kits, international snack boxes, stationery, makeup, t-shirts, journals. You can find something for any interest. Gift the subscription notification in a box with a small-themed item.
Subscription Services: A subscription service can be a really thoughtful gift. Let them choose to download whatever they like in music, movies, anime, videos, comics, online classes, and so much more. Be mindful of adult content available on any platform, but most subscriptions allow for age
restrictions and/or parental controls.
Seriously, Books: It might seem like kids are all digital, but young adult fiction, comic books, and graphic novels are driving a resurgence across the entire publishing industry. There is an incredible range of titles and themes now, with truly exceptional writing. If you don’t know what they like, consider a gift card to an independent bookstore or comics shop.
Themed Gift Baskets: If your favorite teen is into something special, make your own themed gift basket. Makeup, gamethemed merch, craft supplies, car accessories, journals, stuffed animals - pile several things in a box or basket, fill it with some fun snacks or small items, wrap it in cellophane, and top with a bow for a customized, thoughtful themed gift.
These cool, creative ideas will make everyone’s holiday bright. You’ll have an easier time shopping, and your teens will have a fun holiday with something they really want. n
spice OF LIFE
Red Velvet Cookies
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 Tbsp red food coloring
1 cup white chocolate chips
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture and mix until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix until just combined, and then fold in the white chocolate chips. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2” apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are crispy.
Candy Cane Cookies
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp peppermint extract
½ cup crushed candy canes
red food coloring
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture, and mix well. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until combined. Divide the dough in half and color one half with red food coloring. Take small pieces of each color and roll them into ropes. Twist the red and white ropes together and shape them into circles. On a prepared baking sheet, bake for 9-11 minutes until set. Let cool, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 ½ cups flour
1 cup rolled oats
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup fresh cranberries, quartered
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cream together the butter and sugar, and then add the eggs and vanilla, and mix well. In a separate bowl, add the flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, and stir until well combined. Add them to the wet ingredients and mix until you have a soft dough and then stir in the white chocolate chips and cranberries. Drop by the tablespoon onto a cookie sheet, leaving 2” between each cookie. Bake on a prepared baking sheet for 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
½ tsp peppermint extract
2 Tbsp salted butter, softened
2 Tbsp half and half
¼ tsp peppermint extract
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
¼ cup peppermint bits, finely crushed Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt, and
crossword
ACROSS
1. Type of fever
6. Hatchling’s sound
10. NYC ex-mayor Ed
14. How the cheese stands
15. Fill the hold
16. Perry’s creator
17. Holiday visitor for Columbus?: 3 wds.
20. Column’s ringlike molding
21. Batters’ coups
22. Land in the water
23. Days of yore
24. It’s sometimes a cinch
27. “In” thing
29. Lucie’s brother
33. Athina’s grandfather, brief ly
34. Painter’s stroke
36. Somme schools
38. Holiday song for an astronaut?: 3 wds.
41. Like Rip Van Winkle
42. Precipice
43. Viscous matter
44. Wine cask residue
45. WWII arena: abbr.
46. Sandy tract
47. -mo, replay technique
49. Misplace
52. Streamline
56. Immune-system stimulator
60. Holiday dessert for Little Richard?: 3 wds.
62. Healing plant
63. Make like an eagle
64. Actresses Campbell and McIntosh
65. Hot-cross edibles
66. Scary alternative?
67. Shock or lock
DOWN
1. Hernando’s hideaway?
2. Hale or Hale Jr.
3. West German capital
4. Sense
5. “Hud” star’s family
6. Spaghetti serving
7. Hear here
8. Censored, in a way
9. Minnie of “Hee Haw”
10. Seaweed derivative
11. Kind of presentation
12. Fingerprint, e.g.
13. Pianist Dame Myra
18. Blanc or Brooks
19. Spanish hero (with “El”)
24. Fundamental
25. Remove from memory
26. French textile city
28. As red as : 2 wds.
29. June bug, for one
30. Powers that be
31. High chair?
32. Rhone feeder
34. Hair coloring
35. Cleopatra’s downfall
36. Over-easy item
37. Comrade of Fidel
39. Paul and Mary Ford
40. Pagan worship
45. Ewell’s “Itch” costar
46. Obsolescent freezer device
47. Schuss
48. Scandinavian crepe
50. Canadian province: abbr.
51. Army hitch
52. Wild guess
53. Humdinger
54. Harrow’s rival
55. Parisian seasons
57. Supplied
58. Stretches (out)
59. Capone’s pursuer
61. Nasser’s alliance: abbr.
