Lake Murray, SC August 2024

Kids & Pets

August 2024

PUBLISHER

David Hayth | david.hayth@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Alexandra Hill | alexandra.hill@citylifestyle.com

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.

This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for Lake Murray Lifestyle kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.  Cheers!

DAVID HAYTH, PUBLISHER @LAKEMURRAYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee Learn how to

Treat Yourself To A Better-Behaved Dog

Let The Wild Rumpus Begin

Chapin Pediatric Dentistry

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Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

DOG

SOCIALIZING TIPS:

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH |

summer is POPSICLE SEASON

KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR

As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kid-friendly activity.

SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES

ingredients:

Makes 18 to 24

• 2 quarts Concord grape juice

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 12 whole cloves

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 3 tablespoons whole allspice

directions:

Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.

Only 3 lots left!

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TAKE A PAGE FROM CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FOR CLASSIC BIRTHDAY PARTY THEMES

let the WILD RUMPUS begin

Whether seeking philosophical guidance or deciding what’s for dinner, recipes for life can be found in literature. We learn from great minds that came before us, and that’s true when planning a birthday party. Take a page from classical children’s books to find themes that combine playfulness, colorful illustration and words to inspire food, décor and games that will tickle the fancy of youthful guests, with a central activity of reading aloud. Published in 1963, “Where the Wild Things Are” is one of the most recognizable children’s picture books of all time. Writer and illustrator Maurice Sendak created a universal story about mastering fears. Dressed in his wolf costume, and sent to his room for creating havoc at home, young Max travels to an island of Wild Things where he becomes king. It’s a story about childhood resilience and mastery of fears, but simply observed, the fantastical book provides a colorful segue to an afternoon birthday romp in the park. When it comes to wild things, enjoy inspiration from our own party, plus we’ve compiled some ideas for ways to help the rumpus begin based on other beloved titles:

“Regardless of the theme, be sure to leave time to read a favorite passage from the central book of choice.”

“WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE” BY MAURICE SENDAK

As a costume party, have guests dress as their favorite wild thing. A crown-making activity allows everyone to be King (or Queen) for a day.

GAME: Wild Rumpus Dance Party. A twist on the Freeze Dance, guests dance and prance freely until the music stops. An extra step means that player is out. A winner is the last “beast” to stand still after multiple rounds of play.

“CURIOUS GEORGE” BY MARGRET AND H. A. REY

Gather a barrel of monkeys, plus your favorite Man in the Yellow Hat, for a party where guests can go bananas. George always seems to wander, so try a scavenger hunt that meanders from clue to clue. Banana cupcakes, banana bread, and a tower of bananas add a healthy touch to the dessert table.

GAME: Monkey in the Middle. Create a circle with one guest in the middle. Toss a ball, or soft monkey toy, across the circle without the monkey in the middle catching it.

“DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS!” BY MO WILLEMS

Though an unlikely party host, pigeon—with his wide-eyed enthusiasm—sets a party tone. Eat “bird seed” trail mix and hot dogs (inspired by another Willems title, “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!”).  Printable images of Pigeon lend themselves to thematic and whimsical decorations.

GAME: Red Light, Green Light. With guests as “bus drivers,” they make their way to the station/finish line with a twist on this classic party game.

Regardless of the theme, be sure to leave time to read a favorite passage from the central book of choice. Give books as party favors or add a layer of philanthropy by having guests bring their favorite book to donate to a local nonprofit.

CHAPIN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Introducing Chapin Pediatric & Teen Dentistry: A Passionate Advocate for Pediatric Dental Care

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA HILL

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

KELLY MASON, MASON JAR PHOTOGRAPHY

Nestled in the heart of Chapin, a vibrant and growing community known for its picturesque landscapes and tight-knit neighborhoods, a new face has emerged in the field of pediatric dentistry. Dr. Charlton Conner, with his warm smile and compassionate demeanor, is quickly

“Prevention is key," he emphasized, "and early education lays the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health habits.”

making his mark as a dedicated advocate for children’s oral health.

Having recently opened his practice, ‘Chapin Pediatric and Teen Dentistry’, Dr. Conner brings a fresh perspective to the local healthcare scene. His journey to becoming a pediatric dentist is rooted in a deep passion for both dentistry and patient well-being. Unknowingly, Dr. Conner found his passion for working with children by serving adults in his General Practice Residency in New York City. After many conversations with his adult patients who had severe dental needs, it became clear that most of the adults with issues suffered a traumatic dental experience as a child. These patients vowed never to go back to the dentist as an adult. Many of these adults were suffering from significant dental

health problems and required incredibly involved dental treatments to be restored to good dental health due to years of neglect. In the midst of these treatments, Dr. Conner had an epiphany that working with children to provide positive and fun experiences would help establish good dental health and create a solid foundation for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. Dr. Conner knew that if good dental health was taught and appreciated early in childhood, it would set children up for a positive outlook on oral health. Most importantly, Dr. Conner knew it would change a child’s life for the better.

While speaking with Dr. Conner, he shared his vision for his practice and his commitment to the community. “I believe that every child deserves a healthy smile and a positive attitude towards dental

care,” he remarked. His office, designed with young patients in mind, boasts a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere complete with a nursery for infant patients, movie theater, teen lounge, interactive wall projector for drawing, and more. “We want children to feel excited about visiting the dentist,” he added with a smile.

Dr. Conner’s approach goes beyond routine checkups and treatments; he actively engages parents in their children’s dental health journey, offering personalized guidance on oral hygiene practices. “Prevention is key,” he emphasized, “and early education lays the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health habits.” Families appreciate his gentle touch and his ability to connect with young patients, easing any fears they may have about dental visits. “Dr. Conner is amazing with my kids,” remarked a local parent. “He takes the time to explain everything and makes the experience fun.”

As Dr. Conner continues to make a significant impact on pediatric dental care in Chapin, his dedication and passion serve as an inspiration to both his peers and his community. With his patient-centered approach and commitment to excellence, Dr. Conner is undoubtedly shaping the future of children’s dental health in Chapin, one smile at a time.

LEXINGTON CHAMBER & VISITOR CENTER'S NEW CONTENT STRATEGIST

Local Spotlight: Meet Trent Loggins

Trent was cast in a role he had always dreamed of playing, The Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz.

As the sun rises and sets on Lake Murray during this beautiful (albeit sweltering) summer season, each day brings with it the promise of new beginnings. For some, it’s the opportunity to make new memories with their families through vacation, for others, the opportunity to make new connections and advancements in their careers. For the Lexington Chamber & Visitor Center's new Content Strategist, Trent Loggins, it’s the chance to settle into newly married life in a community that he grows to love more and more each day. It’s a refreshing change of pace for the young professional, after having experienced an exciting, spontaneous and fast-paced career in theater and hospitality over the last dozen years.

After graduating from the University of Montevallo with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre in 2012, Trent wasted no time in jumping head-first into his theatrical pursuits. After a national tour with Birmingham Children’s Theatre beginning only weeks after his graduation and a 7-month residency with the Round Barn Theatre in Indiana, he found himself in Seaside Florida for three years, working not only as a performer but also as a technician, improv artist, playwright, props master, teacher and administrator with the Seaside Repertory Theatre. There he honed his craft and developed a love for the administrative side of the theatrical art form. In January 2017, he waved goodbye to his beachside life and began touring with the National Theatre for Children (NTC).

Working as a performer with the NTC afforded Trent the opportunity to visit parts of the country he missed on his first national tour, including Minneapolis, Arizona, South Carolina, Ohio, Kentucky and more. At the end of his second tour with the NTC, he met Gabriella Francis, the young woman who would later become his wife. They met in the Minneapolis Airport, where they bonded over both their flights being delayed, McDonald’s chicken nuggets, and, of all things, fidget spinners. After finishing

his tour, he counseled and taught theater camps at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. with the U.S. Performing Arts Camps, returned to the Round Barn Theatre to play Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls (one of his dream roles) and then moved to Chicago to study improv and sketch comedy. Unfortunately, city life didn’t quite suit Trent; after a handful of months, he accepted a last-minute offer to move to Wisconsin and perform with the Palace Theatre in Wisconsin Dells…and as luck would have it, what was supposed to be a one show contract with The Palace turned into 2 1/2 years of some of the greatest performance and administrative opportunities in his theatrical career.

On the opening night of Happy Days: A New Musical, his first show with the Palace, Trent was cast in a role he had always dreamed of playing since he was five years old: The Cowardly Lion in the Wizard of Oz. The Palace’s production pulled out all the stops – movie quality costumes and prosthetics, a fly system for Glinda’s Bubble, the Wicked Witch and the flying monkeys, elaborate sets, special effects, and more. The production ran for four months, often to sold-out audiences, and kickstarted Trent’s journey with The Palace Theatre. He went on to perform in leading or supporting roles in 10 productions for The Palace, including DeathTrap, Mamma Mia, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Game’s Afoot, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels: The Musical, to name a few. Offstage, he directed two Children’s Theatre performances, including an original musical version of Alice in Wonderland which he also co-wrote and costumed. He additionally had administrative positions in their box office, in theater education and community outreach, and also served as the theater’s Prop Designer for 14 productions. He continued with the Palace until its closing in March 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the fate of live theater as a career being uncertain during COVID and his relationship with

CONTINUED >

Gabriella growing more serious, Trent knew it was time for a career change. In July of 2020, he accepted a position as the Kid’s Entertainment Manager for Great Wolf Lodge Wisconsin. The new position gave him the best of both worlds; offering opportunities and responsibilities he hadn’t experienced before while still allowing him to work in the arts and occasionally perform with his job. He and Gabriella remained in Wisconsin throughout the remainder of 2020 until late 2021, when adventure called for both of them with new careers with American Cruise Lines.

Trent began as a Cruise Director while Gabriella took on the role of onboard Restaurant Manager. As a Cruise Director, Trent developed, scheduled, and led programming for guests, along with selling cruises onboard and occasionally performing as part of the nightly entertainment. Both he and Gabby received promotions in 2022; himself in a Cruise Director role that had him visiting and helping more ships in the fleet, and Gabby to Hotel General Manager of her own ship. As fun and exciting as life onboard was, he and Gabriella were ready to settle down and decided to move to West Columbia, South Carolina in November of 2022.

The year 2023 proved quite eventful for Trent. Just a month after moving, he stepped into a remote corporate position at American Cruise Lines as their Entertainment

& Enrichment Manager. This position required him to manage resident and step-on entertainers, guest speakers and artists-in-residence performing on over 35 different itineraries throughout the year across a 17-ship fleet. In 2023 alone, he traveled to Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Mississippi, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, and Connecticut to visit ships. In November of 2023, he and Gabriela were married in a beautiful ceremony in her hometown of Rochester, New York. After returning from their honeymoon, a career opportunity presented itself as the Content Strategist for the Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center, a 65-year-old non-profit organization in Lexington, South Carolina. Looking to settle down, start a family, and find a better sense of community, he was ecstatic to accept this new position. Starting in December 2023, he connects with businesses, tells their stories, and promotes key programs, initiatives and events. Most of all, he enjoys making a meaningful impact in the Lexington community.

As the sun rises and sets on Lake Murray and another day goes by, Trent counts himself lucky to have been blessed with the wonderful experiences he has had thus far. After a fulfilling theatrical career, he finds serenity in the promise of the many new adventures to come with his family and career in the Midlands, a community he’s proud to now call his home.

ARTICLE BY CAPITAL CITY/LAKE MURRAY COUNTRY STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Anchors Aweigh

Welcome aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray! This 80-foot Dinner Cruise Yacht offers two levels of indoor and outdoor seating, providing a luxurious one-of-a-kind experience on Lake Murray’s serene waters. Whether guests seek a public cruise, private charter, or dockside dining, The Spirit is sure to provide her guests with an unparalleled experience.

Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, The Spirit began her Lake Murray service in 2008, enchanting guests as a charter boat and floating venue. Under Lake Murray Tour Partners’ stewardship, she underwent a complete renovation in 2022, including a new bar, bathrooms, and a full-service kitchen. Now, fully transformed and docked in Ballentine, SC near Shealy’s Landing, The Spirit of Lake Murray is cruising once again!

Guests can indulge at the “Spirits” Bar, offering premium liquors, fine wines, and beer options. The chef-inspired menu features made-to-order dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients, promising a culinary journey that delights the senses. Reservations are necessary for public cruises and private events, with advanced booking recommended for dockside dining to secure an unforgettable experience.

CRUISES AND CHARTERS

• Public Cruises

As the sun sets over Lake Murray, enjoy the breathtaking views from the deck or the climate-controlled main deck during Sunset Cruises. Accompanied by beverages from the Spirits Bar and gourmet foods, it’s an evening to savor. For those intrigued by nature’s wonders, the Purple Martin Tour offers a mesmerizing spectacle during July and August. Witness the graceful migration of Purple Martins to Bomb Island at dusk, an unforgettable sight that is sure to create cherished memories on Lake Murray.

• Private Charters

For those seeking a customized experience, The Spirit of Lake Murray is available for private charters. Whether it’s a corporate event, team outing, birthday party, anniversary, or wedding, the Private Event Experience Coordinator will work closely with guests to create their ideal experience.

BOOKING INFORMATION

Public cruise tickets can be purchased individually or for groups, with cocktails available at the “Spirits Bar” and gourmet dining options provided on every trip. Make sure to check the reservation calendar for Senior and Family Cruise events – book an adventure today at SpiritOfLakeMurray.com or call 803-250-5497!

DISCOVER LAKE MURRAY

Guests watch the sunset on Lake Murray on board the top deck of the Spirit of Lake Murray. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray. With its luxurious amenities, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking views, every moment on board promises to be a cherished memory. As guests cruise along the serene waters of Lake Murray,

spanning over 50,000 acres with 650 miles of shoreline, they’ll discover why it’s been named a “top southern destination” by Forbes and Food and Travel Magazines. Whether they’re savoring a sunset cruise, witnessing the mesmerizing migration of Purple Martins, or indulging in dockside dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Reservations can be made today to experience the magic of Lake Murray aboard The Spirit. Adventure awaits!

LISTEN NOW

Check out the Explore Lake Murray Podcast and listen to Episode 10: Aboard the Spirit of Lake Murray with Captain Rick Crout!

SPIRIT OF LAKE MURRAY

Address: 216 Shadowood Drive, Irmo, SC 29063

Phone Number: 803-250-5497

Reservations & Learn More: spiritoflakemurray.com

IT’S PEANUT BUTTER JELLY TIME

CHANGE UP YOUR PB&J GAME BY DISCOVERING NEW WAYS TO ENJOY THE OL’ STANDBY

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CURRID

Summertime is busy time, and that often means eating on the go. Whether you’re at constant baseball games or meeting up for a regular play date, you’re probably bringing food along with you to feed your crew. And there’s no meal that’s as on-the-go friendly as the peanut butter and jelly sandwich. And don’t get me wrong — I love a PB&J. But months of eating anything can get a little old, and this summer, I started to wonder if there was a way to zhuzh up the ol’ standby.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO CHANGE UP YOUR PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICH:

Change up your bread: One easy way to liven up your sandwich is to use different bread. That sourdough you may have learned to make during the pandemic is a perfect bread to use, or you could opt for milk bread, a Japanese option that is fluffier and sweeter than white bread.

Get nutty: While most toddlers would balk at crunchy peanut butter, you’re an adult! You can try new things! If you don’t have the crunchy type on hand, you can also just add peanuts between your layers of peanut butter and jelly to get that crunchy fix.

Chip in: Probably the wackier idea you’ll see here, and one a toddler would either love or abhor, but chips on sandwiches are a great way to add crunchiness and saltiness to any sandwich — especially the PB&J. Apparently, Channing Tatum loves to eat Cheetos on his PB&J, though I’ve had others tell me they love to add Doritos — both the Nacho and Cool Ranch variety — to theirs, too.

Fresh fruit: This is probably the simplest way to up your PB&J game, since technically, you’ve already got fruit on your sandwich in the form of jelly. Try adding some smashed raspberries or cut strawberries to yours next time you make one!