june 2009 columbia metropolitan

CO

LU

MB

IA M

ET

RO

PO

LIT

AN

MA

GA

ZIN

E •

JU

NE

20

09

• V

OL

UM

E 2

0 N

UM

BE

R 1

• Y

OU

R C

ITY

. YO

UR

MA

GA

ZIN

E!

2 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN J U N E 2009

COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 3www.columbiametro.com


34

CONTENTS

Volume 20 Number 1

30

Contents

Features30 Fathers FirstColumbia’s famous men reveal their softer sidesBy Janey Goude

34 The Noblest FraternityTwo of Columbia’s bravest receive Medals of HonorBy Chuck Walsh

DepartmentsCelebrating 20 Years14 1989 RewindColumbia Metropolitan turns 20by Jessica Berger

16 Celebrating 20 Years with Joe Pinner

Palmetto Business17 Clear Skies at Night, Astronomers’ DelightThe Midlands Astronomy Club captures starry beautyBy Rosanne McDowell

Carolina Community26 Healing HeartsCamp Braveheart helps children cope with losing a loved oneBy Robin Cowie Nalepa

Home Style38 A Cozy Camden CottageIrv and Margaret Ellis’s renovated homeWritten by Katie McElveen

42 Full BloomA Columbia woman brings joy to many with thousands of flowersBy Lindsay Brasington

26

38

42


CONTENTS

Volume 20 Number 146 Rebuilt, Remodeled, RebornThe Columbia Remodelers AwardsBy Sam Morton

54 Remodeling Resource Guide

Advertising Sections22 Getting Down to Business

In Every Issue8 From the Publisher10 City Scoop20 Spread the Word61 New to the Neighborhood?65 Good Eats68 Picture This71 Just Married72 Out & About

87

20

68

46


FROM THE PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER

Henry Clay

EDITOR

Emily Tinch

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Robyn Culbertson

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Lindsay Niedringhaus

EDITORIAL ART DIRECTOR

Dennis Craighead Design

ADVERTISING SALES

Shawn CowardDenise Floyd

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR

Robyn Culbertson

OFFICE/PRODUCTION/CIRCULATION

MANAGER

Lindsay Niedringhaus

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Janey Goude, Rosanne McDowell, Katie McElveen, Sam Morton,Robin Nalepa, Chuck Walsh

PHOTOGRAPHY

Robert Clark, Jennifer Covington, Lochlan Kennedy, Bob Lancaster

INTERNS

Julie Behr, Jessica Berger, Lindsay Brasington

Columbia Metropolitan is published 10 times a year by Clay Publishing, Inc., 3700 Forest Drive, Suite 106, Columbia, S.C. 29204. Copyright © Columbia Metropolitan 2009. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Advertising rates available upon request. The publishers are not responsible for the comments of authors or for unsolicited manuscripts. SUBSCRIPTION price $19.97 a year, $29.97 for two years in the United States. POSTMASTER send address changes to: COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN, P.O. Box 6666, Columbia, South Carolina 29260. (803)787-6501.

About The Cover:Keith Huggins with wife Laura and daughters

Kate, 2, Mary Frances, 8, and Annalise, 6.

Photography by Lochlan Kennedy

COLUMBIAM E T R O P O L I T A NThe magazine in your hands marks the first issue

of our 20th year in publication. Throughout the next nine issues, culminating with the May

2010 edition, the editors of Columbia Metropolitan magazine will creatively call your attention to what has changed in Columbia since we started our business in 1989, with the premiere issue in 1990. It is our pleasure to celebrate the people who have been an integral part of this community’s development, improvement and lifestyle.

According to the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus, “There is nothing permanent except change.” That has certainly been the case with Columbia during the past 20 years. For one, there are more of us. The metro population has grown from 453,847 in 1990 to 601,004 in 2007. With this influx of people has come more development in Columbia, Irmo and Lexington. In 1989 the Vista was an unattractive warehouse district next door to a maximum-security state prison known as CCI. Today it is the gem of the Columbia downtown area with its restaurants, nightlife and retail shops. CCI is gone, and the spot where criminals served their sentences is now a beautiful in-town neighborhood. USC has grown at a mind-boggling rate with its building program and Innovista project. Main Street has been transformed as well with new office buildings, the Museum of Art and condominiums. Bedroom communities have sprouted up all around the metro area in addition to new schools and the renovation of old ones.

When my wife Emily and I moved here to start Columbia Metropolitan, we were struck by the friendliness and hospitality that greeted us. Emily and I are both from the South, so we are accustomed to Southern hospitality, but the Columbia version is altogether different in its sincerity and warmth. This is Columbia’s greatest attribute, and even after 20 years of rapid growth, this has not changed. Incredibly, Columbia still has a small-town feel even though it is the largest city in South Carolina.

With its three rivers, Columbia has an outdoor atmosphere that is refreshing and special for a city this size. I’ll never forget the first time I drove into downtown Columbia on I-126 across the Broad River and saw an osprey flying overhead with a fish in its talons. What an incredible sight to see anywhere, much less in a downtown urban environment! This, I thought, was a good sign of a city with amazing growth potential but with unique attributes. Twenty years later much of that potential has been realized, but much is yet to come, and I believe realization will come without the city losing its local and historical appeal.

All of us at Columbia Metropolitan greatly appreciate your interest and support of this publication. As Columbia’s city magazine, we have grown along with the metro area and know it would not have been possible without the support of our readers and advertisers. Thank you, and we look forward to 20 more years of sharing articles and images of this wonderful city.

Sincerely,

Henry Clay Publisher


The Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) has broken ground on the

Saluda Shoals Wetland Preserve at Saluda Shoals in Irmo.

The Wet l and P rese rve project is designed to revitalize a natural wetland area in the southwest section of the park to its original state. This low-lying natural wetland has been home to numerous plants and animals

in the past. After years of farming the area and changing its landscape, ICRC now wants to return it to its natural state.

The project will enhance the natural area for educational p r o g ra m s t o t e a c h t h e community more about the park’s wildlife. It will feature two acres of elevated ADA-compatible boardwalk with three overlooks into the wetlands, as well as an observation area, outdoor classroom and two picnic shelters.

Sa luda Shoals Wet land Preserve will also include a permanent birding blind. This small structure for viewing birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat allows viewers to study the environment without disturbing it.

ICRC plans for the Wetland Preserve to be an outdoor laboratory for learning. The boardwalk will include a “dangle”

platform with a ranger station so that park rangers can get into the water and pull out samples for educational programs without damaging the environment.

At this time, the 10-acre preserve is expected to be open to the public in mid- to late October this year.

For more information, contact the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission at 213-2008, or email Lori Shaffer, at lshaffer@ icrc.net.

Preserving Wetlandsfor EducationBy Lindsay Brasington

CITY SCOOP


Tours and Tea Tuesdays at theHampton-PrestonMansionBy Lindsay Brasington

Join the Historic Columbia Foundation every Tuesday in June and July from 2 to 4 p.m. for tea and a tour highlighting

the women of the historic Hampton-Preston Mansion. These tours are part of a program by the Historic Columbia Foundation that will cover 100 years of women’s history on the mansion’s property.

Tour guides will be dressed in the mansion’s traditional 19th-century attire, telling the tale of the manor that was once home to people of all walks of life. The tour will feature several of South Carolina’s historic homeowners from the original homeowners Ainsley and Sarah Hall to the famous Wade Hampton. The tour will also highlight the College for Women and Chicora College, two women’s colleges that were managed from the property for more than 40 years.

Tours will conclude with afternoon tea, crumpets and fruit in the Historic Columbia’s Carriage House, a café next door to the mansion.

Hampton-Preston Mansion is located at 1615 Blanding St. Tour admission is $8 for members, $4 for children of members, $10 for non-members and $5 for children of non-members. Tours must be reserved in advance by calling 252-1770, ext. 33, or emailing [email protected].

For more information, visit www. historiccolumbia.org, or call Michelle Shorter at 252-1770, ext. 31.


Subway Awards $5,000 Scholarship

Ashton Jones, who graduates this month from Airport High School, has been chosen

to receive the $5,000 Subway of South Carolina Scholarship for the upcoming academic year. Ashton is excited to attend the College of Nursing at the University of South Carolina in the fall, where she will study to become a registered nurse. She plans to continue working at the Subway restaurant located on Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia in order to earn money for school.

“I really appreciate the Subway Scholarship and am excited to be selected as this year’s winner,” says Ashton. “The scholarship provided me a way to pay this year’s tuition, which is a big boost to my college career. Now I can concentrate on my studies and not have to wonder about how to pay for school this year.”

Recipients of the scholarship,

which is funded and sponsored by Subway Development Corp. of South Carolina, are selected based on academic accomplishments, goals, personal attributes and ambitions. The scholarship is open to applicants who are employees of Subway in South Carolina and have worked for Subway for a minimum of six months. It is also available to applicants who are dependent children of qualified South Carolina Subway employees.

“We like to see our Subway employees succeed, and their education is important to us,” says Ali Saifi, who is the president/CEO of Subway Development Corp. of South Carolina. “It is our mission to award a $5,000 scholarship each year to a responsible, conscientious and aspiring Subway employee who works hard for our team and desires to continue her education.”


India Maple, leukemia patient at Palmetto Health Richland, enjoys knocking down a wall.

SC State MuSeuM: Opening Windows to New WorldsBy Lindsay Brasington

The SC State Museum is expanding its horizons to outer space with a new interactive

digital dome facility. The Windows to New Worlds expansion is a multi-dimensional facility to further science education in S.C. and bring in more tourism to Columbia.

The 25,000-square-foot facility will contain a planetarium, teaching rooms, an education center and an interactive outdoor observatory with a 1926 Alvan

Clark telescope, donated to the museum by Columbia University. The facility also will have the capability to broadcast the telescope’s live images to any school in the state over the Internet. Windows to New Worlds will also feature a 4-D movie theatre with seat movement, smell and wind capabilities to enhance the audiovisual experience. The theatre will be the only cinema in the state to show entertaining and educational 2-D, 3-D and 4-D films. The theatre also will be able to show live images from the observatory’s telescope at any time.

The project is still in the planning stages, but it is projected to open around the fall of 2011. Windows to New Worlds will open new opportunities in science education and provide new ways to learn.

For more information or to donate to the endeavor, visit the museum’s Web site at www.museum.state.sc.us.

By Jessica Berger

Columbia–ABriefBreakdownof1989The Exxon oil spill had everyone talking, the U.S. invaded Panama

and Batman (starring Michael Keaton, not Christian Bale) was the biggest blockbuster of the year. The word “big” may also bring back some painful memories of hairstyles from the period. The year was 1989, and Columbia Metropolitan had just hung out its shingle to fill Columbia’s need for a city magazine.

To mark our 20th year, Columbia Metropolitan will highlight the 1989 happenings of different parts of the Columbia area. Join us as we take a look into the past to recall what happened, as well as what didn’t, and see how much Columbia has changed in two decades.

➤ The Ira and Nancy Koger Center for the Arts opened its doors. The first performance was given by the London

Philharmonic Orchestra on Jan. 14.

➤ President George H. W. Bush visited the S.C. State House in February to talk taxes, budgets and bipartisanship.

➤ In September, Columbia served as a safe haven for fellow South Carolinians pushed from the coast by Hurricane Hugo. Columbians also dealt with the aftermath of Hugo’s whipping winds

and torrential rain.

➤ Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber and Jim Sonefeld, the future stars of the Columbia-grown rock group Hootie and the Blowfish, graduated from the University of South Carolina.

➤ Bob Coble was campaigning for the chance to become Columbia’s mayor in the 1990 election.

➤ The Columbia Mets, Columbia’s minor league baseball team, commissioned the city to build a new baseball stadium, eventually known as Capital City Stadium.

In our next issue, we cover The Vista. Don’t miss it!

J U N E 2009

1989Rewind

MA

RK T

UCK

ER

14 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN

Columbia Metropolitan magazine is thankful to have Joe Pinner as one of our longest loyal supporters. Always our cheerleader, his face has appeared in the pages of our magazine so many times that we’ve lost count. Joe is most known for his work with WIS over the past 46 years. Currently, Joe has taken a “reduction” from his prior duties as anchor of The 7:00 Report, weatherman for WIS Live at 5, co-host of WIS News Midday, and host of The Knozit Show. He still remains active at the station, and he can be seen on various newcasts on Fridays, thus earning him the nickname “Joe Friday.”

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS WITH

Joe Pinner

“My City. My Magazine for 20 Years.”



PALMETTO BUSINESS

About three millennia ago, a celebrated king did some stargazing and recorded the experience in this fashion: “When I gaze into the night sky and see the work of Your fingers, the moon and stars suspended in space; O what is man, that You are mindful

of him?” David of Israel was the stargazing king, and the awe inspired by his night-sky observing session has been repeated down through the ages in the minds of uncounted men – from ordinary folks watching from their evening-darkened backyards, to professional scientists like Copernicus, Galileo and Sir Isaac Newton, to enthusiastic amateurs like the members of the Midlands Astronomy Club (MAC). Stargazers all, the men and women of MAC use telescope and camera to unveil celestial bodies that appear to the unaided eye as only tantalizing glimmerings.

Al Parker, current president of MAC and a member since 1989, says the group was founded close to 35 years ago for the purpose of furthering the general knowledge of astronomy in the Columbia area. Since then, its membership has grown to 60-strong and has broadened

to include residents of Columbia, Sumter, Florence, Rock Hill, Greenville, Augusta, Ga. and Alexandria, Va., all of whom share a love for examining the starry panoply of the heavens. That love is fostered by fellowship at monthly MAC meetings and observing sessions, as well as working together on various projects, such as speaking at schools and conducting public viewings of special celestial events. Twice a year, members also gather for a star party and cookout at their MAC-Hunter viewing site near Bethune, where no city lights dim the brilliance of the stars and planets when members turn to their telescopes.

The Midlands Astronomy Club captures starry beauty

Clear Skies at Night, Astronomers’ Delight

By Rosanne McDowell

M45 - The Pleiades Star Cluster in TaurusEasily visible in the winter sky with the naked eye, this open cluster of hot young stars has been known since ancient times. It is often mistaken by laymen for the Little Dipper, due to its shape. (The real Little Dipper is much larger and in another part of the sky.)PHOTOGRAPHY © HAP GRIFFIN


“We get a lot of requests to speak or conduct observing sessions, especially from schools,” says Al. “And we handle as many as we can, based on availability of club members. We advise groups to consult us before scheduling a date and time to make sure the sky will be good for observation. We’ve got a page on our Web site that details necessary information for these folks, which we hope they will read before making their requests. We love going to talk to kids.”

That’s probably because many MAC members became interested in astronomy as kids themselves. Al, for instance, tells of his own youthful initiation. “My dad bought a telescope when I was probably 7 or 8. It was a big, long refractor – that’s what you had back then – and the first thing we looked at was Saturn. I’ve been looking at Saturn ever since. Can’t get enough of it!”

But, Hap Griffin, former MAC president, didn’t have support from family or friends in his childhood passion for the stars. He reminisces, “I had just joined MAC in 1998, and the first club observing event I attended was an evening gathering at Al Parker’s observatory to view a meteor shower. As a kid growing up with a keen interest in astronomy and the physical sciences, I never had family or friends who shared that interest. But here was a group of near total strangers with the same interests and passions as me! As we talked of distant worlds and unimaginable forces, it was a life-changing experience to finally know people who felt the same awestruck amazement at the universe as I did. I knew these folks

would become my lifelong friends, and indeed they have.”

Both Al and Hap say their favorite night-sky viewing objects are Saturn, always a blow-you-away vision, and the moon. Hap also offers a third favorite, the deep-sky Orion Nebula. For just the naked eye, Al says two of the most beautiful things he’s ever seen are Comet Hale-Bopp and Comet Hyakutake, both visible back in the 1990s, with Hyakutake featuring “a tail that went on forever.”

Claiming that simple viewing is sufficiently satisfying for them, some MAC members stick with their telescopes, but the club also has a fair-sized contingent interested in astrophotography. Indeed, several MAC members, including Hap Griffin, have had photos published in books and magazines. Hap explains the joys and pitfalls of the art: “Anyone who says the game of golf tries one’s patience has never attempted astrophotography! There are so many variables that can spoil a photograph – the telescope focus can shift, the autoguider can mistrack, the exposure can be too long or too

Al Parker, current president of MAC and member since 1989

“A telescope is a time machine. When you look through a telescope at the stars, you’re looking at objects so many light years away that the starlight you’re seeing left its source before dinosaurs roamed the earth.”Al Parker, MAC president


short, dew can fog up the lens, or the subject’s composition can be all wrong. But when everything comes together, it’s glorious!”

He adds that he can see a great deal more with astrophotography, including color, that he can’t perceive just looking with his eyes through a telescope. A camera must gather photons over a period of hours to show what’s really there. To allow members to share their art, MAC sponsors regular astrophoto contests.

MAC also has the distinction of having a former president who is a certified Ace, which is the designation for a comet tracker who has discovered at least five comets. Howard Brewington remains the first (and only) person in S.C. to discover a comet.

What excites MAC members about astronomy more than anything else? “A telescope is a time machine. When you look

through a telescope at the stars, you’re looking at objects so many light years away that the starlight you’re seeing left its source before dinosaurs roamed the earth. In fact, its source may not even exist today; it may have blinked out of existence,” says Al. If so, thankfully a sky full of dazzling companions remains for earthbound admirers to enjoy.

For those interested in learning more about astronomy, MAC’s book list on the facing page is a good beginner’s guide. However, club members concur that while books and other media can offer incipient astronomers high-quality sustenance for the soul, their best soul nurturer is live outdoor stargazing – or reading, as Lord Byron put it, “the poetry of heaven.”

For further information about MAC, visit www.midlandsastronomy club.org.

Starry ReadingFor those interested in astronomy, MAC recommends these books as good starting points.

The Soul of the Night by Chet Raymo (for adults)

There Once was a Sky Full of Stars by Bob Crelin (for young children)

The Stargazers Bible by W.S. Kals (for adults; covers the basics)

Orion 10” OTAOne of the most magnificent viewing objects in the night sky, the colorful Orion Nebula fascinates novices and experienced stargazers alike.

PHOTOGRAPHY © GENE HUNTER


SPREAD THE WORD

Grady BeardRandall JacksonToby Goodlett Wesley Whitener Jay HammMichelle EdwardsMelanie Huggins Deborah Tapley

Bridget LyttonGraem ClarkMarianne AdamsZachary Hinson Steven JohnsonScott Clark Dana BurnetteAndrew Melling

Maggie Murdock has joined Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough as an associate. Karen Aldridge Crawford has been appointed to the Litigation Counsel of America as a fellow.

C. David Warren has retired from Richland County Public Library after 30 years as director. Melanie Huggins has been named the new executive director.

Toby Goodlett has been promoted to retail banking executive at First Citizens Bank. Wesley Whitener has joined the bank as senior vice president and appraisal manager. Dennis Wallen has been promoted to vice president and retail sales manager.

First Community Bank has been chosen to provide banking for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development HOME program in Lexington County.

Randall “Mack” Jackson has been appointed to the Midlands Technical College Commission.

Grady Beard of Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte has been appointed to Larson’s National Workers’ Compensation Advisory Board. The firm has been selected for the National Workers’ Compensation Defense Network, and it has been named a City of Columbia Green Business.

Michelle E. Edwards of Palmetto Health has been promoted to senior vice president/chief information officer of information technology. Deborah J. Tapley has been promoted to vice president of operations. Jay Hamm has been named vice president of emergency, surgical and trauma services. Anna Kay has been promoted to vice president of Palmetto Health Physician Practices. Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital has been named Best of the Best at the International Interior Design Association Awards.

SC Women’s Business Center has been nominated for the national 2009 Small Business Administration Women’s Business Center of Excellence award.

Michael Stagliano has joined Insight School of SC as principal.

Tom Keith of the Sisters of Charity Foundation of SC has earned a Distinguish Contributions to Community Life award from the Clemson University Institute on Family and Neighborhood Life.

Teri Callen Stomski of Investors Title Insurance Company has earned the USC School of Law 2009 Gold Compleat Lawyer award.

Lexington Medical Center Foundation has named the following to its board of directors: Retta Whitehead, chairman; Fred Johnston, vice-chairman; Anne Black, secretary; and Donnie Burkett, treasurer.

John Adams Hodge of Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd has been chosen as a judge for the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition.

Bill McCrary of Strategic Partners has been awarded the 2009 David H. Sandler Award by Sandler Training.

Andrew G. Melling has been named a shareholder at McNair Law Firm.

Zachary A. Hinson of NBSC has been promoted to banking officer. Bank employees have participated in the American Bankers Association Teach a Child to Save Day.

The City of Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation has received more than $250,000 in materials and services for Edisto Discovery Park.

Robin Rawl has been promoted to vice president of membership and sales at ClubCorp.

W. Scott Clark, CPA has been promoted to shareholder at Elliot Davis, LLC.

Dana Burnette has been promoted to director of benefits communication and education at Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company. Steven Johnson has been promoted to director of account management in the sales department. Marianne Adams has been promoted to assistant vice president of enrollment services in the national accounts department. Graem Clark has been promoted to assistant vice president of acquisition in the national accounts department. Bridget Lytton has been promoted to director of account management in the national accounts department. Tim Parsons has been promoted to assistant vice president of Internet marketing. Justin Laughlin has been promoted to assistant vice president of health products in the actuarial department. Ryan Stribling has been promoted to assistant vice president of enrollment technologies. Peggy Aun has been awarded the Frank Summer Smith Jr. Volunteer of the Year Award.

Miriam Atria of Capital City/Lake Murray Country has been awarded the SC Palmetto Patriot award.

Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology has presented a $3,000 check to Children’s Chance.

Lexington Medical Center, Linda Vann Epps, Riverside High School and Oakview Elementary School have won SCDHEC Earth Day awards.

Jeanette Sox has earned the Thelma Busbee Volunteer of the Year Award for 956 volunteer hours in 2008 at Lexington Medical Center. Other volunteers who donated more than 500 hours were Faye Smith, J.C. Sutton, Dale Key, Margaret Ford, Lynda Pittman, Monroe Brown, Vera Campbell and Sandra Dodd.

Charles SpethLeigh NasonKatherine HelmsKristine Cato Cal WatsonRussell Goudelock Hugh McAngusEarline Phillips

J U N E 2009


Bill Tindall has been awarded the Agency Hands in the Community Award from The Allstate Foundation for his work with Children’s Chance.

Earline Phillips has celebrated 50 years of working with Canteen.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Columbia has been named a Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Nationwide Leadership Council Gold Award Winner for 2008.

McAngus Goudelock & Courie 2009 Super Lawyers®: Kristine L. Cato, J. Russell Goudelock and W. Hugh McAngus.

Nexsen Pruet 2009 Super Lawyers®: David Dubberly, Gene Allen, Mike Brittingham, Henry Brown, Vickie Eslinger, William Floyd, Tommy Lavender, Angus Macaulay, Rose Manos, Susi McWilliams, Rick Mendoza, Ed Menzie and Val Stieglitz.

McNair Law Firm 2009 Super Lawyers®: Michael M. Beal, John W. Currie, Robert W. Dibble, Jr., Erik P. Doerring, M. Craig Garner, Jr., Celeste T. Jones and Richard J. Morgan.

Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd 2009 Super Lawyers®: William C. Boyd, Frank W. Cureton, J. Donald Dial, Jr., Randolph B. Epting, Manton M. Grier, Theodore J. Hopkins, Jr., Stanley H. McGuffin, Stephen F. McKinney, Tara E. Nauful, William H. Short, Jr. and Benton D. Williamson.

Sowell Gray Stepp & Laffitte 2009 Super Lawyers®: Betsy Gray, Becky Laffitte, Biff Sowell, Bobby Stepp, Monty Todd and Cal Watson.

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough 2009 Super Lawyers®: Stuart M. Andrews, Jr., George S. Bailey, Linda K. Barr, C. Mitchell Brown, George B. Cauthen, Clarence Davis, David E. Dukes, Carl B. Epps, III, Robert W. Foster, Jr., James C. Gray, Jr., Kevin A. Hall, Sue Erwin Harper, William C. Hubbard, S. Keith Hutto, John F. Kuppens, John T. Moore, Stephen G. Morrison, Edward W. Mullins, Jr., R. Bruce Shaw, B. Rush Smith, III, Joel H. Smith and Daniel J. Westbrook.

Ellis, Lawhorne & Sims 2009 Super Lawyers®: F. Earl Ellis, Jr., John T. Lay, Jr., John L. McCants, William P. McElveen, Jr. and David C. Sojourner, Jr.

Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart 2009 Super Lawyers®: Katherine Dudley Helms, Leigh M. Nason and Charles T. Speth, II.

Anna Kay Bill McCraryMichael Stagliano John Hodge

Peggy AunRyan StriblingJustin LaughlinTim Parsons

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Andrews Auto Service

Matt Riley

Andrews Auto Service has been serving the Columbia area for more than 75 years. “I have based my business philosophy on honesty and simplicity,” says Matt Riley. “I am third generation and have been

taught quite a bit from working with my dad, Frank Riley, and also being around the business as a little boy watching my grandfather operate it.” Matt has always enjoyed talking with and getting to know people to find out something about them. There were many occasions when he saw his father spend quite a bit of time with a customer and really get to know them, especially when there was a lot of explaining to do about a repair. “He was certainly a master of communication and was a real teacher for me,” says Matt, “and this has helped me to this day. ”Matt’s background in school was not centered around automotive repair. After graduating from Spring Valley High School, he got a scholarship to play soccer at Spartanburg Methodist College and then continued on to get a graphic arts degree at Midlands Tech. “Then, I had an opportunity to work with my dad at Andrews,” Matt says, “and I have been here for more than 20 years.”

Matt says his location on Harden Street in Columbia has been great because of the close surrounding neighborhoods. The automotive repair business is changing rapidly, with computer diagnostics and technology being implemented on vehicles. “We must always be on the lookout for changes to be able to do our job the best we can,” Matt says. “I have always thought that this is a relationship-based business because the customer who comes in generally knows nothing about automotive repair. They depend on us to educate, prioritize and repair their vehicles thoroughly and at a reasonable cost. That involves a lot of trust. We must be accountable and interested in solving customers’ problems.”

If you need any advice or repair on an automobile, give Andrews Auto Service an opportunity to build your trust. They would love to help you.


Clarion Hotel Downtown



The Clarion Hotel Downtown has been serving the Columbia area for more than 50 years. The original hotel was built in 1958,

and the Tower and Meeting Space was added in 1970. Mostly known during those years as the Town House Hotel, the property partnered with Choice Hotels in 1996 and became the Clarion Hotel Downtown. Many renovations and updates later, the hotel now has a new façade, new carpeting, new bedding, updated bathrooms and décor. Carolina’s, the restaurant at The Clarion Hotel Downtown, offers daily breakfast and lunch buffets that have had customers

raving for years. The Sunday brunch is also a truly wonderful and delicious spread of Chef’s Specialties.

Over the years, the hotel has hosted many notable people and events and continues to do so more than ever. The location of the property, size of guest rooms, quality of the staff, excellent customer service and scrumptious food keep people coming back year after year. The hotel has been the recipient of the Gold Award for Excellence from Choice Hotels, offering concrete evidence of what their customers have known for years.

This full-service property employs a

sales staff of five people with more than three decades of combined experience in the hospitality and meeting planning industry. The staff has all the knowledge and tools to make your next corporate meeting, seminar, wedding reception, birthday party or other function a smashing success. The Clarion Hotel Downtown can accommodate groups from five to 500 in any of the well-appointed meeting spaces and guest rooms. From start to finish, you are guided through the process of planning an event that will meet all your needs and fit your event budget. The staff at the Clarion Hotel Downtown has been expecting you!

(L to R) Bill Ellen, General Manager, Stephanie Duffee, Director of Sales,Chandler Roosevelt, Director of Catering

www.columbiametro.com COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 23


The Tailored WindowTHE SCRIPT

A degree in Music Performance from the University of North Carolina, with emphasis in Musical Theatre, is the inspiration behind The Tailored Window. It may seem strange comparing musical theatre to custom window treatments, but Jodi Moseley considers her profession art or,

better yet, a performance. A beautiful piece of silk, slightly bent on the floor, makes a window dance. A hidden frame, constructed of wood or bendable fiberboard, can totally change the shape of a window and create movement. A finely hand-carved, hand-finished pole and finials, co-starring with the perfect texture of fabric, embellished by a handsome tassel or braid trim, can subtly become the star of the room. Window treatments make a room come alive. “My goal is to create window treatments that evoke emotion. The install, or what I consider ‘the finale,’ is rewarded with great applause,” Jodi says.

THE AUDITION

“I try to spend as much time as possible with customers and designers, getting to know them, learning their likes and dislikes and exchanging

ideas,” Jodi says. Window treatments are an important - not to mention costly - investment at times. The Tailored Window is creatively involved in the entire production from start to finish, offering fabrics, trims and hardware in all price ranges. Jodi can create from pictures, drawings or

simply through discussion and imagination.

REHEARSAL TIME“I design and create window treatments based on the customer’s wants and

needs” Jodi says. “Treatments can be functional, creating privacy or blocking out sunlight; stationary, creating an atmosphere of simplicity and warmth; or grandiose, presenting a statement to the world. Many hours of engineering, accompanied by lots of math, are definite requirements in creating window treatments.”

ABOUT THE ARTISTJodi started sewing as a hobby. Before she knew it, her friends had told their

friends who told their friends. Through that beautiful phrase, “word of mouth,” her hobby magically grew into a full-time business. It was difficult leaving a secure job with the federal government to pursue a career as a small business owner, but the choice not to pursue her career in musical theatre only heightened her desire to do something she loves. “I had to take a chance, which carries no regrets.”

“As the business grew I had to make some decisions,” Jodi says. “I wasn’t able to keep up and deliver in what I consider a reasonable time frame. The thought of allowing my work into another’s hands caused extreme anxiety. But I have been blessed with two ‘Jodi-trained’ extremely dedicated sewers, Clara Rose and Cathy Kelley. Lee Ann Itterly is my contract sewer/drapery designer. Bellinda Hollis, my assistant and long time friend, is my voice, my second set of eyes and the other half of my brain. I keep it small. Quantity isn’t always quality. All the work still passes through my hands for approval.”

THE FINALEThe Tailored Window offers window treatments, slipcovers, bed covers,

upholstered headboards and accent items such as table covers and pillows. They also have several lines of manufactured shades and blinds, a full line of fabric by order and many choices of custom hardware. “Most importantly, we offer exceptional service,” Jodi says. “We strive to go above and beyond to provide the performance that will guarantee a standing ovation from our customers!”

In honor of Professor Jane Dillard, Department of Creative Arts, UNC Charlotte.


Jodi Moseley

J U N E 200924 COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN

Woodley’s Garden CenterGETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS WITH

Ri c k Wo o d l e y, o w n e r o f Woodley’s Garden Centers, is a husband, father, businessman, loader, receptionist and

psychiatrist. “I have been doing lawn maintenance since I was 14 years old,” he says. “I started by mowing neighbors’ yards and doing the yards of homes my dad’s business was remodeling.”

When - not if - Rick got in trouble at school, his dad would not let him sit around and play video games. He would put him to work in the yard pulling weeds. “I guess you could say that gave me hands-on experience in learning different weeds up close and personal!” Rick laughs.

After graduating from high school, Rick went to work for a local chemical company but continued to do yard maintenance on the side. Then in 1981, he and his wife, Liz, decided to pursue landscaping as a full-time career. When they first started, they

focused on residential and commercial maintenance, then moved into design, installation and retail. In 1985 they opened Woodley’s on Two Notch. By the late 1990s, they were focused on retail, and by 2000, they were exclusively in the retail garden center business. “While I don’t have formal training, I do have considerable hands-on experience gained over the years through exposure to trade associations, attending seminars and trade shows and working in the dirt myself,” Rick says. Woodley’s is part of the Garden Center Marketing Group, which allows them to see firsthand how other garden centers work, from marketing, to display to buying.

“Columbia has been a good location for us because the climate affords a long growing season and people in this area generally take pride in their homes and businesses,” Rick says. “With the help of organizations like Columbia

Green, the downtown area is looking better and better as well.”

Rick enjoys meeting the different customers that shop at Woodley’s, and he has developed friendships with many of them over the years. “I love what I do and get to do what I love. I have always enjoyed being outdoors and working with plants, color and my lawn.”

Woodley’s has the best quality and selection of perennials around. Pearl Fryar is a regular customer and orders all his material for his demonstrations from Woodley’s.

“We’ve noticed that in a slow economy, people tend to go back to the basics,” says Rick. “And gardening is as basic as it gets. With the information we now have regarding our environment, the importance of having indoor and outdoor plants in our lives is more evident than ever. We’ll see you in the gardens at Woodley’s!”


(L to R) Liz Woodley, Rick Woodley, Robin Klein

www.columbiametro.com COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN 25


CAROLINA COMMUNITY

Healing Hearts

Camp Braveheart helps children cope with losing loved ones

Camp Braveheart helps children suffering from loss learn to cope with their grief.

(Top) Kenneth Kithcart-McGriff enjoys sharing his box of memorabilia of his father that he made at camp. His mother, Tywanna Kithcart-Floyd, says Camp Braveheart put a smile on Kenneth’s face again.

PHOT

OG

RAPH

Y BY

RO

BERT

CLA

RK


Kennith Kithcart-McGriff sits at a table in a local fast food restaurant talking a mile a minute. His smile flashes

brightly when he talks of someday drumming in a marching band, his favorite school subject of science and creating tiny robots when he grows up.

Not long ago, the Crayton Middle School student had other dreams, too.

Kennith dreamed his father would teach him to play golf, watch him graduate from elementary school and eventually teach him to drive.

Tragically, Kennith’s dreams were shattered when his father, William McGriff, was shot and killed in December 2007.

“There are lots of things we were going to do that we never got to do,” says Kennith, now 12. “My dad was like my best friend. We did everything together.”

After his father’s death, the boy was thrust into a realm of sorrow, grief and anger most adults are ill-equipped to handle. His family, including his mother, great-aunt and his two older brothers, offered as much support as they could, and he visited a grief counselor. Still, he struggled.

Not until Kennith attended a special summer camp did he start to heal.

At Camp Braveheart, children ages 7 to 14 who have experienced the deaths of loved ones share their tragedy in

hopes of rediscovering joy. “It’s a unique camp with a unique

mission,” says Bill Frank, camp director. A trained staff of camp coordinators,

social workers, chaplains and counselors help the children understand and give voice to their grief, Bill says.

“Camp Braveheart gives children a chance to get away and share their experiences not only with adults, but with their peers,” he says.

Camp Braveheart is fully-funded by Gentiva Hospice, which started the program in Florida in 2000. This summer,

Camp Braveheart will be held in eight different locations around the Southeast, ranging in length from one to four days. The camps are open to all children, not just ones whose families are involved with Gentiva Hospice. The camp held in Marietta, S.C., on Aug. 14 and 15 will host approximately 40 children.

The camps are free, while the benefits are priceless.

Dave Garner, the Camp Braveheart site coordinator in South Carolina, says often grieving children hold back their emotions and won’t talk to those close

By Robin Cowie NalepaPhotography courtesy of Camp Braveheart

The balloon release, a tradition on the last day of camp, lets campers symbolically let go of their loved ones and trust that they have travelled to a better place.

Campers at Camp Braveheart participate in many activities, including kayaking and rock climbing.

PHOT

OG

RAPH

Y BY

RO

BERT

CLA

RK


to them, like surviving parents, because they know the adults are hurting too. Friends and classmates of the children may be of little solace as they are unable to identify with such complex emotions and experiences.

Camp Braveheart offers a balance of fun and therapy where children can feel safe to share without being judged, according to Dave, who served as site coordinator for the Georgia camp in 2008.

“Tragedies have thrust these kids into the most horrific realities,” says Dave, also a chaplain and bereavement counselor for Gentiva Hospice in Greenville.

Kennith’s mom, Tywanna Kithcart-Floyd, says that before he attended Camp Braveheart, Kennith was “always sad, always crying, frustrated and angry. He was a child hurting and missing his daddy.”

Of the four-day camp Kennith attended in Georgia in 2008, he fondly remembers kayaking, rock climbing and laughing with other campers. Nicknames like “Granny” and “Mr. T” were bestowed, along with soakings from water fights.

Amidst the revelry, the children bonded over their shared experiences.

“Everyone there is like you,” says Kennith. One activity involved campers decorating memory

boxes dedicated to their loved ones. Kennith’s included a ribbon and pictures of crosses and basketball, his father’s favorite sport. The box returned home with Kennith and sits on his dresser.

The campers also wrote personal notes about their losses.

PHOT

OG

RAPH

Y BY

JEFF

AM

BERG

Amidst the revelry at Camp Braveheart, children bond over shared experiences.


“I cried,” says Kennith. “I read it. I showed it to my friends. After we got it all out, we started to laugh a little.”

Nearly a year later, Kennith continues to talk about his camp experiences and reminds his mother about every two weeks that he’d like to go again.

Tywanna says she is grateful her son was able to attend Camp Braveheart and open up about his feelings after he returned.

“When he came home, the smile on his face was a smile I had not seen in a long time,” says Tywanna. “He was at peace.”

For more information about Camp Braveheart, contact Bill Frank at (800) 626-1101 or visit www.gentiva.com/hospice for an application.

2009 Camp Braveheart Locations and DatesJune 5-8 4-H Center Columbiana, Ala.

June 26-27 Roosevelt State Park Morton, Miss.

July 10-11 Silver Ash Ranch Potts Hand, Miss.

July 17-20 Camp Timpoochee Niceville, Fla.

July 25 YMCA Cookeville, Tenn.

July 24-27 Woodmen of the World Blountsville, Ala.

July 31-Aug. 3 Camp Gideon Acworth, Ga.

Aug. 14-15 Camp Marietta Marietta, S.C.


FEATURE

Fathers FirstColumbia’s dads reveal their softer sides

PHOT

OG

RAPH

Y BY

RO

BERT

CLA

RK

By Janey Goude

Joshua, 9, Alina, 7, and Jonah, 8, think their dad, Hank Burriss, is the best in town.


Honoring fathers is an age-old tradition. Ancient Romans celebrated fathers every February, although, u n f o r t u n a t e l y , only deceased dads received accolades.

The first American Father’s Day was observed in Spokane, Wash. on June 19, 1910. After a 62-year struggle for national recognition, Father’s Day was finally established as a national day of observance by President Richard Nixon in 1972. Today, Columbia Metropolitan celebrates Father’s Day by talking with some of Columbia’s finest fathers and the people who know them best.

Hank Burriss has practiced law in Columbia for 15 years. He and his

wife, Sherri, have been married for 15 years and have three children, ages 6 to 9.

“I have always been very involved with my children. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Hank says. “When we had one potty training and two in diapers, I would usually bathe them while Sherri made dinner. It was sort of a tag team system there for a while. As they have grown more independent, I try to spend time with each one of them individually either in reading, going to the store, throwing a ball or playing a game. It is amazing how much more openly my children talk to me when we are one-on-one.”

Good communication isn’t something Hank takes for granted. “As a lawyer, I see a lot of parents who aren’t communicating with their kids,” Hank admits. “I admire other parents whose older children still come to them to talk. I always want my kids to be able to tell me anything without fear.”

Sherri admires the balance Hank brings to home life. “As a mother it’s easy to focus on making sure children are disciplined and don’t learn bad habits. But Hank really knows how to play. He knows when it’s time to just have a pillow fight on the bed, which is usually followed by a Tickle Festival, where he tickles them senseless. I love it.”

You may recognize Ken Jumper from TV spots during the WACH Fox 57

morning show. With his wife Connie by his side, Ken has served as pastor of The Harvest for 20 years. Ken and Connie, married for 33 years, have two grown daughters and just welcomed their first granddaughter.

Connie lost her sight after the birth of their second daughter. “Connie’s blindness put a different slant on our everyday routines. I was the dad on the carpooling route. We got to school one day, and a man approached me laughing. He said, ‘Sir, you have a PB&J sandwich in your back window.’” Ken’s unconventional father role left indelible impressions for his daughters. When asked to share their favorite memories, Rebekah and Ruth both fondly recall being rocked to sleep by their daddy and then carried upstairs to their rooms.

As they have grown, they appreciate the example their father has set. Ruth shares, “He has been an example of how to make Godly decisions based on biblical morals.” Rebekah adds, “He showed and explained how to set priorities and live with principles – even when that meant making difficult decisions. He taught us how to make wise decisions that are pleasing to God, reminding us that lots of small decisions (not just the ‘big ones’) take us down our life’s path.”

Ken remembers one decision specifically because of how much it meant to his daughter. “Ruth was looking to do a year’s internship with Teen Mania. They were holding an informational meeting in Charlotte. I chose to ride with her to Charlotte rather than attend a men’s breakfast at the church where I was pastor. My choosing her over the guys’ meeting was profound for her. She told several friends. I thought, ‘Hey, Dad got one right!’”

As regional vice president of South-eastern Freight Lines, Inc., Keith

Huggins finds himself traveling up to 70 nights a year. He says, “Traveling is tough on a family but particularly tough on my wife who, in addition to being a devoted wife and mother to three daughters, ages 2, 6 and 8, runs her own law firm.” After 14 years of marriage, Laura isn’t shy about communicating her needs. Keith says, “Laura lets me know when she is running on fumes and gives me the signal to cool my jets and stay home for awhile.”

Laura is impressed with Keith’s ability to keep his priorities in line. She says, “Keith puts God first, marriage second, children third and everything else is a distant fourth. He even makes keeping priorities a priority.” Keith adds, “I have to take care of myself through diet and exercise, and I have PH

OTO

GRA

PHY

BY R

OBE

RT C

LARK

(L to R) Ruth Cannon, Ken Jumper, Rebekah Boone


to take care of my wife. Making sure I have quality time with Laura makes me a better father. If I don’t take care of myself and my wife, then it’s like trying to parent with one arm tied behind my back.”

One of the ways Keith makes sure Laura’s tank is full is to spend time alone with their girls. Keith says, “On Saturday mornings they love to slip out of the house early for breakfast at Waffle House. We’re all quietly getting dressed and whispering to each other so we don’t wake up Mom, and then they always get the giggles.”

Mary Frances, 8, and Annalise, 6, also enjoy their special Daddy-

Daughter weekend in Charleston. “This weekend is all about jumping on beds and eating chocolate donuts for breakfast,” says Keith. “The first time we went – and I’ll never know if this was accidental or on purpose – the girls didn’t pack any clothes. I came out of the shower Saturday morning to their giggling admission that they had only packed their PJs, swimsuits and stuffed animals. Now it’s a tradition: we begin our weekend shopping for new clothes.” Laura says, “For that trip, Keith lets the girls choose their own clothes. All through the year, whenever the girls look at those outfits, it takes them right back to their weekend with Daddy.”

Over the past eight years, George McFadden has served as manager

to four Columbia-area Rite Aid stores, including currently being chosen as manager for the new Rite Aid in Northeast Columbia. George and his wife, Monet, have two young children, ages 6 and 3.

Monet says, “I really admire how George actively participates in our kids’ lives.” Reading is one of his favorite activities to do with his children. “I love spending time with my kids reading their bedtime stories,” shares George. “This special time has paid off with my daughter being one of three kids in a kindergarten class of 24 who are on a first grade reading level.”

“The biggest challenge I have faced is providing for my family on a single income,” George admits. “We have made a sacrifice to have our children stay home with their mom for the preschool years of their lives. It can be stressful, but overall, it has been a positive experience.”

Being in retail management, George works an unconventional schedule. “I try to commit to not work over 55 hours in a week. When that is exceeded, I make it up by working a lighter schedule the next week. I schedule my work around important dates as much as possible. My involvement in my family hinges upon

Keith and Laura Huggins with daughters Kate, 2, Mary Frances, 8, and Annalise, 6.

Monet, Miles, 3, Alanna, 6, and George McFadden


my physical presence. I only have a short window of opportunity to have an impact in the lives of my kids.”

If you have ever tuned in to the morning show on B106.7 or the noon show on

107.5 TheGame, you’ve heard the voice of operations manager and radio personality Brent Johnson. Married for seven years to Leigh, Brent is the father of a 5-year-old little girl and stepfather to two sons.

“The way those boys love and respect Brent is inspiring,” says Darrell Roland, a friend of the family. Leigh adds, “From the

beginning, he came into their lives, and people couldn’t tell he wasn’t the boys’ biological dad.” Josh, now 14, recalls his favorite memory with Brent: “He asked me to help propose to Mom.” Leigh remembers, “Brent had both boys kneel down on napkins and ask me to marry him.”

“It’s important for me that my kids know how loved they are,” says Brent. “I push them to be the best they can be, but no matter the outcome, they know they are still loved.”

Thinking back on the last seven years of fatherhood, Brent has many wonderful memories. But one event is particularly poignant. “Last year Elin and I went to our first ever Daddy-Daughter Dance.” He recalls, “It was special for her because she had me to herself. Elin loves to dance and for me to twirl her. When she was born, we didn’t know if she would ever walk. At 2 years old she was mobile, but only by crawling. That night, spinning her around and goofy dancing, was amazing.”

Prior to becoming Deputy Director of Public Works for Camden seven years

ago, Tom Austin served as Commandant for Camden Military Academy, a natural fit after 20 years in the United States Army. Tom and his wife Cheri have been married for 31 years. They have six children, ranging in age from 18 to 29, and a 1-year-old granddaughter.

Tom sees families struggle to stay

unified as they go off in all different directions to pursue their own activities. “We did a lot of bonding as a family through camping. We never did the rustic camping; we started in a camper and progressed to RV camping.” Cheri remembers, “We loved to take trips together and watch the kids experience new things. Now when everyone is home, we’ll have conversations that begin with, ‘Remember when …’ A lot of those talks center around our camping trips.”

Tom’s 28-year-old daughter, Jenn, adds, “Some of my favorite memories date back to our years of camping and family vacations in our RV. My dad would get

up really early and just start driving while the rest of us slept. We would arrive at a campsite and my dad would set things up … always the caregiver. My dad’s energy always seemed endless.”

In addition to spending time with his family, Tom also engages in the lost art of letter writing. Tom shares, “I write each child an individual letter before they go off to college. On occasion I write a personal letter to build them up. I’ll tell them how proud of them I am and affirm them with scripture.” Tom’s youngest child, Rebekah, says, “Whenever I have a question, I know my dad will always give me a Biblical worldview.” Tom says, “I want to encourage and reassure them that they can call any time they have a need – from buying a time share to a Biblical question.”

The Austin family: (L to R) Keri Austin Rue, Tom, Josh, Thomas, Cheri, Nicole, Jennifer Austin Foxworth and Bekah

Brent Johnson and (L to R) Josh, 14, Nick, 11, and Elin, 5


TFEATURE

hey came from different backgrounds , f rom different walks of life.

The one common thread they shared, perhaps, was a

desire to serve their country. They were placed upon stages not made of wood and curtains, but theaters of jungle, mountainside, ocean and sky. They were young men, caught in plays with no scripts. And yet, they used fate and happenstance as tools to create scenes of courage and true grit. Because of their actions, they would join a fraternity not of their choosing, but a most noble one, nonetheless. Adorned and decorated, they would be bestowed with the nation’s highest military honor.

They are the men who wear the Congressional Medal of Honor, and they are a select few. As of this writing, only 97 are still among us. In dire situations, these men showed true selflessness, disregarding their own safety for their fellow soldiers. And though their actions exemplified the ultimate in bravery, they reflect on their deeds with sincere humility. To these men, the medal reflects not an act of individuality, but rather a composite collection of valor of all who’ve served and, more importantly, all who died in the process.

Columbia is fortunate to be home to two Medal of Honor recipients, and their stories provide a glimpse of the proud history of the armed forces of this great nation.

John Baker was born in the heartland of America, and as he grew up he developed a sincere desire to serve his country. He tried to enlist in the Marine Corp, but at five feet, two inches tall, he was denied.

Intent on being measured by his heart and not his physical stature, he joined the U.S. Army. At the age of 21, instead of hanging out with friends in a dorm room, John found himself in the jungles of South Vietnam. He soon became indoctrinated to the perils of war as his platoon encountered minor skirmishes, but not until the morning of Nov. 5, 1966 did John first straddle the fine line between life and death.

John was a Private First Class in Company A, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Division, and the company’s mission that November day was to rescue soldiers trapped on the wrong side of a landing zone. Setting up camp at the base of the dense jungle, John’s company was so close to the enemy that they heard their taunts and jeers throughout the night. “The Vietcong were shouting at us, telling us to come get them,” says John. At dawn the rescue mission began, and a scout headed into the wood line. Trouble soon began, as 50 yards into the jungle the scout called for help after being shot. “The company commander asked for volunteers, and I went with my group,” says John. “The underbrush was so thick it took about an hour and a half to get to him.”

As John found out, the enemy was prepared for battle. “They were tied in trees and hiding in bunkers,” John recalls. Bullets ripped through cut lines made by the enemy, and some in John’s group were hit. John got knocked off his feet by a grenade. One of the soldiers took a blast from a .50-caliber gun, his hand hanging by a thread. John carried him to safety amid gunfire as the group came under heavy attack. “I ran in and ran out of the jungle,” says John. “I

The Noblest Fraternity

The history of Columbia’s Medal of Honor Winners

By Chuck Walsh


did that about five or six times to take back the wounded and get more ammunition.” For three hours he carried the wounded to safety, eight soldiers in all. “Once I carried two at the same time,” he says. A gymnast and football player in high school, John had developed tremendous strength. Though he came to the rescue of his fellow soldiers, he was there to fight. “I knocked out six machine gun bunkers and killed about 16 Vietcong,” John says, stating those numbers without any hint of braggadocio. Each time he carried out the wounded, he returned with more firepower. He used an M-16 rifle, an M-60 machine gun and a grenade launcher. He tossed grenades into bunkers while crawling along the jungle floor. Throughout the grueling ordeal, John, a one-man rescue squad, was unconcerned for his own safety. “The only way out was to fight our way out. I wasn’t thinking about getting shot. I was only thinking about my soldiers and getting the ambushed team that was trapped.” John’s fatigues were stained crimson from carrying his wounded comrades.

Thanks to John’s help, his battalion was able to free the ambushed team that day. Though John showed extreme courage in the face of danger, he’d be the first to admit his efforts that day weren’t done without fear. “It’s that spur of the moment occurrence,” says John, “where if I had thought

about what I had done, I might not have done it.” John says that soldiers must take care of their fellow comrades and knows they would’ve done the same for him if the situation were reversed. “You have to look out for each other. And that applies in the world. If you don’t have friends to stand by you, you’re not going to make it.”

John would be duly recognized for his actions, but he still had fighting left to do. Because of his diminutive stature, he was issued a unique assignment. “I was a tunnel rat,” he says. “I had to look for Vietcong in tunnels, which were manned with spider, scorpion and snake pits. They had snakes called two-steppers, because if they bit you, you’d die before you took two steps.” John moved about underground with compass and radio tracking the enemy, though it wasn’t his only duty. “They’d hide their dead on tunnel walls, and we had to pull them out to see how they had died. It was scary.”

John had become a drill sergeant at Fort Jackson when he found out he was to be awarded the Medal of Honor. The day he received it is one he’ll never forget. “When I got the medal from Lyndon Johnson, I felt very humble. I was speechless. And to have my company commander with me, him receiving the medal too, was something special.” John was also awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star and the Purple

John Baker received the Medal of Honor from Pres. Lyndon Johnson.

John Baker and his wife, Donnell


Heart, and he was made an Honorary Marine. John loved what the military represented so much that he served 24 years before being forced to retire due to diabetes. He retired a Master Sergeant.

John looks forward to The Medal of Honor Convention held each year, which will take place in Charleston, S.C., in the fall of 2010. The conference offers the men an opportunity to reunite, not to compare accomplishments. “We don’t talk about what we went through,” says John. “We’re like one big family, and we gather for the friendship.” When they gather, they wear their medals proudly. “When any of us wear the medal, we don’t wear it for ourselves. We wear it for all those who fought with us. We wear it for those who died. It’s for the unrecognized. We’re just the lucky ones who get to wear it.”

For First Lieutenant Charles P.

Murray, Jr., the Medal of Honor was the furthest thing from his mind when he was sent to Europe as a replacement officer in August 1944 at the age of 23. He arrived in France, assigned to Company C, 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry, 3rd Infantry Division, as a rifle platoon leader. Elevated to company

commander, Charles’s mettle was soon put to the test. He’d received special training in village fighting, close combat and other infantry skills, and he also was an excellent marksman. “But no matter what you do in your training, you don’t really know what you’re doing until you actually experience it in combat,” Charles says. In mid-December, the 3rd Division moved south from Strasbourg to join the First French Army in the Colmar area to help drive German forces across the Rhine River and out of France.

On the early morning of Dec. 16, they crossed a river, intent on taking a hill that overlooked Kasyersberg. Charles planned to place his company on the south side of the hill, and he scouted the area to decide where to position two of his platoons along the hillside. “I selected the third platoon, which was somewhere around 30 troops, to go down into the next valley and prevent the Germans from using the valley road. We sent a couple guys out in front, and the lead scout called for me to come down.” An estimated 200 German soldiers were spotted hiding in a portion of the road worn by erosion, hidden to shoulder height. Charles explains, “Since I didn’t have my radio operator (who remained behind due to injury), I borrowed a radio from the platoon l e ade r, c a l l ed my executive officer and told him I had found an enemy target.” Charles gave them coordinate positions, and artillery was fired. “I called back for correction, and they fired a second round that was pretty well on target. I was getting ready to call for the artillery battalion to fire when my radio went dead.” Charles sent one of his men up the hill to get another radio and to

request a mortar. While waiting for the mortar, Charles borrowed a rifle with a grenade launcher attachment, firing a dozen or so grenades into the enemy position.

He then took a Browning automatic rifle, laid down in the trail and began firing. “Someone told me later that I must have fired about 2,000 rounds,” Charles says. Exposed, he continued to shoot as the Germans returned fire. “They were firing in my direction, since I was the only source of gunfire. I told the others not to shoot because I was the only one who could see them from my vantage point.” Singlehandedly, Charles had the Germans in full retreat. “I fired as long as I could see them running. A big truck concealed by the woods pulled out onto the road, so I fired a couple of bursts with the rifle and hit the cab.” The driver and the passenger were killed. Later they found out the truck was carrying three large mortars.

When the mortar Charles requested arrived, the gunner set it up to fire but still couldn’t see the enemy. Time was of the essence, and Charles was in no mood to wait. “I said something

Charles Murray and his wife, Anne

“The only way out was to fight our way out. I wasn’t thinking about getting shot. I was only thinking about my soldiers and getting the ambushed team that was trapped.” John’s fatigues were stained crimson from carrying his wounded comrades.John Baker

Medal of Honor Recipient


polite to the soldier, like, ‘Please, young man.’” Charles smiles, before admitting, “Well, I might have told him to get the hell out of the way and decided to shoot it myself. I fired 10 or 12 rounds.”

After Charles finished firing the mortar, he took his pistol and led his troops down the hill. “I don’t remember any fears or concerns. I was too busy worrying about what was going on around me.” His focus was on the task at hand. “I knew what to do and wanted to do the best I could.” Charles took shrapnel from a grenade tossed by a soldier who was in the process of surrendering. Before allowing himself to be treated for his wounds, Charles secured the area, climbed the hill to inform his executive officer of the situation and then walked over a mile for medical assistance. After surgery, Charles had no choice but to remain at the hospital to recuperate, though he was anxious to return to his men. And yet he still continued to serve. “I wanted to do what I could, so I followed the nurse around to help other injured soldiers.” After Charles was released, he had no orders, and so he made his way back to his battalion by hitching rides with an ambulance, a

mess truck, a jeep and on foot. Charles found out he was to

receive the Medal of Honor after his wife read about it in the hometown newspaper. And on July 5, 1945 at the Salzburg airport, General Geoffrey Keyes presented the Presidential Unit Citation to the entire 3rd Infantry Division before presenting Charles with the Medal of Honor. “While I was receiving the medal, watching my division march by, a lot of emotions and memories occurred, thinking about my wife, about going home. I thought about how I was selected as opposed to lots of other guys who weren’t.”

Charles would also receive the Purple Heart, four awards of the Silver Star and a number of other medals. And yet his focus was not on hardware, but his men. He says, “You don’t fight for medals or recognition. On that day I thought I was taking care of my troops the best I could. I know my life was at risk, but I was the one available and the opportunity was there. That doesn’t mean that a few minutes later someone else wouldn’t have done it.” Charles, who retired a colonel in 1973, insists that all Medal of Honor recipients receive their medals on behalf of their fellow soldiers. “I don’t think any of us

think that we’re heroes. When I see the medal, I think of the other soldiers we lost.” He reflects back on his company. “I lost 32 soldiers, and I’ve been back to the site of each one of them. I know how they were killed,” and with a pause, he adds, “and that hurts.”

The Medal of Honor recipients performed heroic acts, though they say they only did what soldiers are supposed to do. They claim their medals not as their own, but they hold them in trust for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice – the ones they call the true heroes. They wear them for the men who fought alongside them. Though the medal is worn around the neck, it holds a place in the deepest reaches of the heart. These are special men who found themselves in special situations – an extraordinary fraternity, indeed.

For information regarding the Medal of Honor Society’s National Convention in 2010, visit www.medalofhonorconvention.com or call Eugene F. Rogers, Rogers Townsend & Thomas Law Firm at 771-7900. The Convention runs from Sept. 29 - Oct. 3 and offers various opportunities to meet the special men who have received the Medal of Honor as well as a number of events.

Charles Murray received his Medal of Honor in Salzburg, Austria, on July 5, 1945.

“You don’t fight for medals or recognition. On that day I thought I was taking care of my troops the best I could. I know my life was at risk, but I was the one available... That doesn’t mean that a few minutes later someone else wouldn’t have done it.” Charles Murray

Medal of Honor Recipient

J U N E 2009

HOME STYLE

More than 22 years ago, when Irv and Margaret Ellis were still newlyweds and hunting for their first home, the couple laid eyes on a 1930s-era brick cottage on Hampton Street in Camden. “It was about the ugliest thing we’d ever seen,” recalls

Margaret. “There was no grass. The front yard was all gravel.” The interior of the house was equally unattractive. Dominated by a large brick fireplace, the living room was painted baby blue. With the exception of the crown moulding, which had been painted gold, all the other trimwork – baseboards, door frames and window sills and frames – was royal blue. The steel-blue carpeting in the living room and the rust-colored carpeting in the dining room ran into each other abruptly in the no-man’s land between the two rooms.

Yet, somehow, the couple saw past the ugly duckling to the swan that they knew was hiding beneath the clashing colors and unkempt yard. “You can’t hide good bones, no matter how hard you try,” laughs Irv. “We really had to look, but the more we did, the more we realized that this could be a great house.” The house had other benefits as well. “It’s on a street that’s pretty, well-located and friendly,” says Margaret. “Oh, and the price was right. We were young and didn’t have much money to spend!”

The house has undergone several mini-renovations over the years. For example, the Ellises have redone the kitchen,

Irv and Margaret Ellis’srenovated homeBy Katie McElveen

Photography by Robert Clark

ACozy CamdenCottage

Margaret and Irv Ellis



Interior designer Katherine Anderson found a fabric for the Ellises’ dining room chairs that incorporates stripes of salmon and rust against a creamy background, pulling the whole house together.

Margaret and Irv Ellis

J U N E 2009

put down new carpeting and replaced the undersized door that led from the back den into the yard with a pair of French doors. However, not until recently did Irv and Margaret decide to tackle the study, dining room and living room, including the fireplace. “We saved that for last,” says Margaret. “We knew it would be a huge project.”

Today, after f ive months of construction, the house could never be described as ugly. Demolished one brick at a time by Irv, the living room fireplace is now an elegant stretch of taupe marble topped by a wooden mantle that extends to the ceiling. To the left, flanking the doors to Irv’s study (or “man cave,” as Margaret fondly calls it), a pair of bookcases holds dozens of hardbacks, paperbacks, photographs and other meaningful treasures. The study itself, which was done in deep russet, is cozy thanks to several windows that nearly fill the long wall. Throughout the spaces, rich fabrics in shades of chocolate, copper and paprika make a statement against buff-colored walls and the glow of newly installed pecan-colored hardwood floors.

The project got off the ground when Margaret met Katherine J. Anderson, a Columbia interior designer. “I’ve got a

definite style and know what I like, but I knew I’d need help pulling it all together,” says Margaret. “I also wanted to be able to use as much of our furniture and accessories as possible. Katherine had no problem with that. She was great to work with. She got a fast grasp on our style and never looked back.”

Like the Ellises, Katherine was pleasantly surprised by the home’s potential when she made her first visit. “It did have carpeting, tiny moulding and a horrible fireplace, but, like Margaret and Irv, I was immediately taken with the charm of the house,” says Katherine. “They’d told me it had great bones, and it does. We just needed to make it more age-appropriate and find the right colors and pieces that would reflect Margaret and Irv’s clean, uncomplicated style.”

Katherine’s first job was to create a color palette around a trio of salmon-colored leather chairs that the Ellises used in the living room. Since the rooms in that part of the house flow into one another, she needed to find a shade that would be equally at home in the light-filled living room and the cozier dining room. After several trips to the paint store, the group finally agreed on a warm buff color that was pale enough to open the rooms but had enough punch to add style.

The study, done in a deep russet, is fondly referred to as Irv’s “man cave.”

The living room fireplace is now an elegant stretch of taupe marble topped by a wooden mantle that extends to the ceiling.



To bring the dining room into the fold, Katherine found a fabric for the chairs that incorporated stripes of salmon and rust against a creamy background. “I was nervous about going with something that bold, but it really pulls the whole house together,” says Margaret. “I also love that two of the chairs are upholstered and the others are wooden with upholstered seats. It’s unexpected.”

In designing the fireplace, Katherine took the dimensions of the room into account. “It’s a narrow space, so we couldn’t let it protrude too much into the room,” she notes. “It had to be neutral in color. We also decided to make the

mantle a bit taller than normal too. It plays off the long windows and makes the room seem wider.” Katherine also suggested filling the short wall that housed the door to the study with floor-to-ceiling bookcases. “They ground the room, add interest, and also give Margaret a place to store all her books,” she says.

Irv’s study, though small, has everything he needs: a comfy chair, a portable desk and a large television. “If he had a refrigerator in there, I don’t think he’d ever leave,” jokes Margaret. “But it is a great room.”

Margaret and Irv were particularly pleased by Katherine’s flair with

accessories. On the walls, clean-lined architectural prints echo the unfussy style of the house. Plants add softness, as do throw pillows, flower arrangements and draperies. Although they purchased a few new pieces, the Ellises already owned most of the artwork and other decorative items. Irv is still amazed at what Katherine was able to do with them. “When I left in the morning, it was an empty shell. When I got home, I walked into a completely different house. Books filled the bookcases, pictures decorated the walls and furniture warmed the rooms. I’m still amazed at how great it looks.”


HOME STYLE

By Lindsay BrasingtonPhotos courtesy of Mike Dall

BJ Dall brings joy to manywith thousands of flowers

FullBloom


For most people, flowers often evoke images of spring, love and weddings. But for BJ Dall, who plants thousands of

flowers each year at her home and church, flowers are a special part of life that she can use as a ministry to bless others.

BJ and her husband, Mike, have been filling their yard with thousands of tulips for more than 25 years. Their home is a colorful display of some of nature’s most beautiful tulips and pansies all throughout the year. BJ is a nurse supervisor at Providence Hospital and uses her home garden as her own personal respite from the hectic life of a health practitioner. “My yard is a really nice place to come after working in the hospital,” she says. “It gives me good quiet time. It’s a good time to reflect, and I can see God in nature very easily.”

But BJ has not kept her green thumb to herself. She also has been planting at her church, Trenholm Road United Methodist, for more than 20 years as a ministry to the community. She and Mike

have planted close to 10,000 tulip bulbs each year, regularly adding hundreds of pansies to provide color when the tulips are dormant. And though the Dalls left their home of 33 years and moved to Milford Road in Lake Katherine just last year, their new yard already is full of vibrant blooms.

The Dalls are able to plant their entire yard of 5,000 to 7,000 tulip bulbs in a week; it takes about three days to plant the 3,500 bulbs at the church. Their 100 flats of pansies can take as long as two weeks to plant. “We used to be able to do it quicker, but now we’re older,” she says.

However, the entire gardening process takes much longer than a week or two. BJ has to till the soil early in the fall, put in nutrients, water the soil and till it again until it becomes soft enough to plant the bulbs. “It’s really not that hard,” she explains. “It’s labor intensive for a short period of time and fun for all of the time.” BJ loves tulips and never seems to tire of planting them year after year. To her, they are very special.

“I’ve never seen anybody look at tulips and not smile,” she says. “They’re amazing. They’ll open in the daytime, close at night, and you can put them in the house to liven up the interior.”

Tulips only last about six weeks, so BJ plants pansies underneath the tulip

blooms so she always has something beautiful growing in her yard. BJ plants her tulip bulbs in early December and adds pansies, orchids, lantana and other colorful blooms each May.

BJ has built a relationship with Color Blends, a company in Connecticut from which she buys her tulip bulbs each year. “I use different colors every year,” says BJ. “They know me on first-name basis and will custom blend colors for me. They do a very nice job color coordinating, and it’s always a surprise when the tulips start to bloom.”

BJ also buys 100 flats of pansies each year from Brabham’s Nursery, which also knows her by name. “Donna will start growing what I need in the summer so the flowers will be ready in May,” she says.

BJ uses an array of large glazed clay pots for some flowers and plants the rest of her bulbs in tiered flower beds all around her yard, which she and Mike designed specifically to showcase the blooms. BJ says she will put small trees in some of the pots later in the year when the tulips are pruned away; next year she will replant tulips around the trees.

The Dalls have had many fans of their work both at home and at church. “People stop and look and stop and look, and I’ll get notes in the mailbox – little friendly notes,” says BJ. “We get a lot of

BJ Dall works with flowers in her garden.


comments from the church. People have their kids’ pictures made at the church in front of the tulips.”

Since moving to their new house on Lake Katherine, the Dalls also have had a few nautical admirers. “We’ve had people come by boat to see the backyard. That’s kind of neat.”

Though the Dalls will not have any more tulips again until March 2010, they constantly have a beautiful display of various blooms all year. Much will be in bloom this summer, and the Dalls will certainly accumulate many new beholders of their garden in the coming years.


HOME STYLE

every so often we decide it’s time to pack up and move into a new house, but the philosophy of recycling and reusing is on the incline. And face it, if you love where you live and you have no real need to increase or, in the case of empty-

nesters, decrease your overall square footage, there’s only one real solution – remodel.

As the saying goes, “Life is change. Choose wisely.” Remodeling projects often go one of two ways – the right way or the wrong way. The right way includes selecting your contractor from among the membership of Columbia Remodelers, a council of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Columbia.

The consumer benefits of choosing one of those council members for your remodel are innumerable. “When you do that, you’re seeking out a professional who takes this industry very seriously,” says Columbia Remodelers president Barry Davis of Barry Davis Homes, Inc. “To be a member of our group, you have to demonstrate a high level of quality and stability and have the ability to establish relationships that evolve over the long haul,” he adds, stressing that happy customers are often repeat customers.

Members of Columbia Remodelers are area builders, contractors, craftspeople and vendors. They agree to adhere to a strict code of ethics, attend educational seminars and offer homeowners choices in the latest building products, techniques and technologies.

With household budgets shrinking and new home loans hard to come by, the answer for many is a good remodel. Remodeling is often less expensive than building brand new, but it doesn’t mean cheap. The goal is to gain equity commensurate with the investment you make. To do that you need to trust that your contractor has the know-how and, most importantly, the ethics to get the job done.

What better way to know you’ve chosen a winner than to, well, choose a winner? Each year Columbia Remodelers grants the Columbia Remodelers Awards to its members who compete for the distinction. They are judged on how well they completed a project to their customers’ satisfaction, the construction challenges they encountered, and the creativity and effectiveness of the solutions they devised. The results every year, as expected, are spectacular.

For 2008, the votes are in. And the winners are:

Hinson Cabinet and Supply1. Kitchen Remodel Under $40,000

Multiple CRA winner Steve Hinson took on this project for the Buchanans to convert a utilitarian kitchen and dinette, bringing it into the 21st century using all functional space. Steve began by changing the old oak site-built cabinets and

porcelain hardware to classic cherry wood custom-built cabinets, transforming what was a serviceable family kitchen into a rich, textured adult gathering spot. Now it’s a great place for company to gather for a glass of wine while the meal simmers or for the family to congregate at Thanksgiving


Rebuilt,Remodeled,Reborn

The Columbia Remodelers Awards

By Sam MortonPhotography courtesy of respective winners

1

www.columbiametro.com

waiting for the turkey to roast in the oven. “We’re very pleased,” says Gail Buchanan, who coordinated colors and decorated the kitchen under the direction of Gloria Berg Interiors. “The craftsmanship and quality are superb; we love the design. Now our kitchen is creative and functional. We especially like the new location for the refrigerator, pantry, pull-out cabinet for cooking condiments and the new cabinet for recycle and trash receptacles.” Steve added a classy chandelier and rounded the corners of the workspace on the kitchen island, to which he also added a gas cook top. He changed white countertops to dark green granite, added a tumbled marble backsplash and updated the sink for a sleek, modern look.

2. Kitchen Remodel $40,000 to $70,000

“My daughter lives in Florida. She loves cooking, so she loves to come home now. The first thing she wants to do is cook a meal,” says Anita Stevens, whose kitchen also got a Steve Hinson makeover. The Stevenses built their house in the 80s, and they felt like they were still living in that period. “Then everything started falling apart. We know Steve, so we called him and he came to us with some wonderful ideas on how to improve. Now I feel like I’m in a gourmet kitchen,” she says. In addition to updating the appliances, Steve changed the cabinetry to custom-built cherry and added black granite countertops. He enlarged the doorways and incorporated the adjacent room into the floor plan. He laid hardwoods throughout the renovated space and added new lighting to give the space more function.

3. Kitchen Remodel Over $75,000Steve appears to specialize in dramatic differences.

In this kitchen remodel for the Finch family, Steve took a room with so many white cabinets and so much light paint that it appeared to be washed out. He transformed it into something warm, comfortable and elegant. He replaced those white cabinets with quarter-sawn oak featuring a dark mahogany finish and framed them around a slate-tile backsplash. Steve also removed a traditional window and replaced it with an over-sized sheet of insulated glass to give the homeowners a spectacular lake view. “Steve dramatically transformed our kitchen,” says John Finch. “Our son is in the food service industry and says he could run a catering service out of it.

2

3

4

6

5


That’s how nice it is.” As with his other kitchen remodels, Steve had great partners in Marble & Granite Designs by Peter Vardi, Palmetto Kitchens, Hanna Electric, Merritt Plumbing, Gateway Supply, Creative Tile and Moore’s Painting. In this renovation, the homeowner also updated a light fixture over the stove by having One-Eared Cow Glass create custom globes.

4. Bath Remodel Over $20,000 and 5. Renovation/Room Addition Over $150,000

These two awards stem from the same home remodel of the Tighe home on Bannockburn Drive. On the bathroom renovation, Steve says he began with what were essentially four different rooms: a small shower and toilet room, a tub, a vanity area and a closet. “The first plan we looked at involved moving load-bearing walls, but I convinced the homeowners that would be too costly,” Steve says. Instead, he gutted the existing space and created a unique toilet area with curtain enclosures, his and hers wardrobe areas, a walk-in shower, a seating area and plenty of counter space. “We used every cubby hole and extra bit of space in the attic to complete this bathroom,” Steve says. “In the 35 years I’ve been in business, this is the most functional bath I’ve ever created.”

As for the room renovation, Steve’s goal was to optimize all the living space on the house’s second floor. He increased the square footage from 1,500 to 2,200 by accessing attic space rather than adding onto the structure. He created a laundry room and disguised closet space as cabinets. The result is an elegant, livable new addition. “One reward was working with Mrs. Tighe in creating the ideas we both envisioned for this project and bringing it all together,” Steve says.

Design & Remodeling Solutions, LLC6. Renovation/Room Addition Under $100,000

Homeowners Keith Norville and Bob West came home one Saturday to find 200 gallons of water swishing through their house. A hose on the washer, upstairs of course, had broken, causing the water to flow unimpeded. They had spoken to Cliff Cinamon nearly four years ago about renovating their kitchen, and now they had no

7

8

9

10


choice but to go for it. Cliff gutted the kitchen, removing the ceiling and even the floor. He added new office space. He then replaced the stair treads and installed Australian cypress flooring in addition to repairing sheetrock damage and replacing moulding and lighting. All the subfloors were warped on top of joists that weren’t level, and the old tile had been affixed to particleboard with epoxy cement, presenting some tough challenges. “I’m very pleased with the result. I felt like Cliff and I worked together well and turned out a good product,” says Keith.

7. Renovation/Room Addition $100,000-$150,000

In this renovation, affectionately known as “The Man Cave” for Keith and Tora Miller, Cliff took a third story attic that, in its present state, was useless and transformed it into an stylish family theatre room. He equipped the room fully with a custom bar/kitchenette and a 63-inch plasma TV with surround sound nestled into a custom-built entertainment center. He created 888 square feet of entertainment space and 80 square feet of storage out of a previously unusable room. In it, he made an ample area for a three-in-one poker/dining/billiard table. Cliff also installed a sizable dormer window to allow natural light to flow in the room. To top it off, he designed a beautifully appointed bath that includes a custom shower with two showerheads and a seat, all completely enclosed in frameless glass. His crew had to cover the existing ductwork that ran along the floor of the attic. To overcome that challenge, they raised the floor by 18 inches and still managed to pull off 10-and-a-half-foot ceilings.

8. Outdoor LivingRobin Mullins loves the outdoors.

The problem is, mosquitoes love her just a little too much. The deck on her house was not properly connected, and the steps were in the wrong place. Cliff


came to her rescue with a properly designed and constructed screened porch and extended deck. “I am thrilled,” Robin says. “It has increased the livability of my house by at least 40 percent. They did an excellent job of making this addition blend in with the original structure. I feel assured that, if I were to sell this house, I would get more than the money value that was put into this addition.” Cliff searched the Internet to find a demolition company that had the same brick as the existing house, and he installed new stairs on a concrete pad that he poured especially to deter water buildup and to avoid giving mosquitoes a place to breed and live.

J.E. Schuler Renovation and Painting9. Commercial Renovation/Room Addition Under $100,000

Ninety-nine percent of the time, a remodel is just a remodel. Once in a blue moon, it renews somebody’s faith in others. That was the case for Lee Lumpkin. Lee contracted with Ed Schuler to renovate her boutique at 2614 Devine Street. “You hear all these nightmare stories, but mine is just the opposite. The process was joyous, and I think Ed is just a phenomenon,” Lee says. Ed started outside, adding a new 50-year roof, renovating the chimney and painting. “I’ve had the same storefront for 25 years,” Lee says, “but Ed added a contrasting color to my show window to outline it. I didn’t like the idea at first, but then I saw it, and it just made it pop. People who come in comment on it all the time.” Just as he was about to renovate the basement, Ed discovered feral cats and a flea infestation. “One of the remarkably nice parts of this story is that I was out of town, and Ed came over three days in a row to make sure we had captured all the kitties in humane traps


before Modern exterminated the fleas. Everyone was so compassionate about the animals,” she says. To complete the renovation, Ed added extensive siding and a new porch outside and new water lines, new HVAC, cabinetry, two baths, a dressing room and shelving inside, and Steven Ford Interiors handled the interior design. “It has completely altered the way I feel about my store,” Lee says.

Wise Guys Home Improvement10. Bath Remodel Under $20,000

Homeowners Matt and Tina Reiff wanted a sleek new master bath that included spa-like amenities, but they also wanted to retain their Shandon style. Tina had been inspired by her visits to places like Asheville’s Grove Park Inn. Most of the electrical and plumbing had been replaced in a previous remodel, so the bulk of this renovation concerned high-quality fixtures and top-notch finish work. Ryan Parsons and Robert Lindsey of Wise Guys Home Improvement did not have to change the footprint of the house or make any major structural changes. They did, though, have one major challenge: the bathroom had to be completed by Thanksgiving 2008. They got started on October 27, giving them a 30-day window for completion. Speaking of windows, Ryan and Robert determined that having one in this room would cost the homeowners in energy efficiency, so they installed a solar tube skylight, which offers plenty of natural light into an ordinarily dark room without taking up the wall space or allowing the heat loss of a typical window. Their other challenges included out-of-square walls and an uneven and unstable floor cause by the large span of the existing floor joists. With in-laws on the way, all hands were on deck the last day of the project to get the electrical and plumbing trimmed out and to do final touchups. As it turns out, the only one to have a bad Thanksgiving was the turkey.

HOME STYLE

Apartment RentalsPolo Apartment Homes1270 Polo Road, Columbia(803) 419-7319 www.polovillage.com Long and short-term lease options as well as furniture and houseware packages are available. Flexible lease-term option offers opportunity for individuals remodeling a home, building a new house or for those in the housing market who need a place to stay temporarily.

BrickCarolina Ceramics Brick Company9931 Two Notch Road at North Brickyard Road, Columbia(803) 699-8710www.carolinaceramics.comFor 70 years, American made, South Carolina owned, environmentally friendly Carolina Ceramics Brick has built a better world.

Bathroom and Kitchen ProductsMicalline Products1717 Pineview Road, Columbia(803) 783-5110www.micalline.comMicalline offers cultured marble, solid surfaces, granite, polystone, Caesarstone, Zodiac, Silestone, Cambria and shower doors.

Building, Remodeling and RenovationsBaudo & Associates Home Builders, Inc.(803) 996-4779(803) 237-3746www.baudohomes.comBuilding dreams, one home at a time. Baudo & Associates have been selected over local and other custom builders throughout the entire State of South Carolina. 2008 “Celebration of Excellence” award, the coveted “Pinnacle Award,” 2008 Parade of Homes “Best Home,” “Best Interior Design” and “People’s Choice Award.”

Celtic Works1310-A Pulaski St., Columbia(803) 251-4410www.celticworks.comCeltic Works offers custom homes and renovations.

Design and Remodeling Solutions, LLC144 Daybreak Dr., Gaston(803) 794-7993(803) 318-6773www.designandremodelingsolutions.comDesign and Remodeling Solutions offers renovations, including difficult and handicap spaces.

J. E. Schuler Painting & Renovations4222 Blossom St., Columbia(803) 738-8060 A Remodeling Council Award winner, J.E. Schuler offers quality work and exceptional customer service since 1985.

Oody Construction Inc.105 W. Drake Road, Gilbert (803) 892-4260(803) 309-1184www.oodyconstructioninc.comWith a tradition of quality, Oody Construction always pays attention to details.

Remodeling Services Unlimited914 Richland St., Suite B202, Columbia (803) 765-9363www.remodelingservicesunlimited.comFull service design and remodeling is available, including residential and commercial, room additions, kitchens, baths, whole house, windows and doors.

Willm Construction2832 Burney Dr., Columbia(803) 256-3755www.willmconstruction.comWillm Construction specializes in renovations and additions.

Chimney CleaningTop Hat Sweepers(803) [email protected] Hat offers professional fireplace and chimney services.

Custom Outdoor TextilesJaqlene(866) 950-3528www.jaqlene.comOutdoor textiles, candles, dinnerware and accessories are all available from Jaqlene.


RemodelingResourceGuide


Custom Window Treatments, Bedding & AccessoriesThe Tailored Window, LLC10535-E Two Notch Road, Pontiac(803) 736-7881Jodi Moseley and her team at The Tailored Window design and dress windows, beds and other furnishings.

FansDan’s Fan City275 Harbison Blvd., Suite AA, Columbia(803) 781-3267www.dansfancity.comDan’s Fan city specializes in exotic fans.

FencingBrabham Fence1601 Shop Road, Columbia(803) 929-1218www.brabhamfence.com

FlooringPalmetto Flooring2515 Devine St., Columbia(803) 787-6780www.palmetto-flooring.comPalmetto Flooring, an authorized Karastan dealer, specializes in carpet, hardwood, laminate, ceramic and more.

FoundationsTerratec1350 Methodist Park Road, West Columbia(803) 791-8888www.terratecinc.comTerratec offers foundation stabilization, settlement problems corrected, slab jacking, bowing walls corrected and pressure injection grouting (cement and chemical).

Framing/ArtHoFP2828 Devine St., Columbia(803) 799-7405www.hofpgallery.comArt, lighting and framing are all offered at HoFP.

Furniture & Accessories, Design ServicesBiba Interiors3111 Devine St., Columbia(803) 251-6375www.bibastyle.comBiba Interiors offers interior design, art, home accessories, lighting, bridal registry and tabletops.

Marty Rae’s of Lexington5108 Sunset Blvd./Hwy 378, Lexington(803) 957-7999www.martyrae.comMarty Rae’s Furniture has been in Lexington for over 20 years. Tired of the same looks from store to store? Try Marty Rae’s in Lexington, with the best brands under one roof and a refreshing hometown style of customer service. The custom design department is unequaled in the Midlands.

Paul D. Sloan Interiors929 Gervais St., Columbia(803) 733-1704Furnishings, accessories and design services are unmatched at Paul D. Sloan Interiors.

Southern Pottery3105 Devine St., Columbia(803) 251-3001www.southern-pottery.comAlong with traditional and contemporary pottery and ceramic sculptures, Southern Pottery also offers pottery classes.

Steven Ford Interiors2200 Devine St., Columbia(803) [email protected] Ford Interiors specializes in com-mercial and residential design.

Tropic Aire1404 Charleston Hwy., West Columbia(803) 796-3237www.tropicaire.comTropic Aire offers dining groups, umbrellas, gliders, sofas, chaises, outdoor draperies, fountains and grills.

Westend830 Meeting St., West Columbia(803) 794-5010www.westendluxury.comAlong with design services, Westend also offers furnishing and accessories.

Heating and AirAir Waves Heating and Air, Inc.1457 Bella Vista Dr., Columbia(803) 754-9099www.airwaves.comAir Waves specializes in heating and air maintenance and installation, in addition to offering generators.

LandscapingBlue Moon Landscaping1836 Pineview Road, Columbia(803) 776-3838Blue Moon offers landscaping design and installation, irrigation and outdoor lighting.

LightingThe Lite House3 locations in the MidlandsBush River Road in Columbia (803) 798-5400Two Notch Road in Columbia (803) 788-3213Hwy 378 in Lexington (803) 356-0991 www.thelitehouse.comThe Lite House is proud to be voted best lighting store by readers of Columbia Metropolitan magazine and The State newspaper.

StairwaysStairways by Richard Mincey(803) 447-1210www.richardmincey.com Stairways by Richard Mincey specializes in construction of interior stairways, including repairs and remodeling.


PALMETTO BUSINESS

1. Baneberry PlacePrice Range of New Homes: $160,450 - $223,325Lexington School District 1Shumaker Homes, 787-HOMEMatt Shealy/Amber Davis, 356-1544www.ShumakerHomes.comDirections: Take I-20 West to Exit #51 (Longs Pond Road). Turn left onto Longs Pond Road. Community entrance is on the right.

2. Beasley CreekPrice Range of New Homes: $202,950 - $266,760Richland School District 2Shumaker Homes, 787-HOMEDonna Stevens, 735-1203www.ShumakerHomes.comDirections: Take I-77 North to Exit #24 (Wilson Road). Turn left onto Wilson Road then right onto Turkey Farm Road. Community entrance is on the left.

3. The Bluff II at Chestnut Hill PlantationPrice Range of New Homes: $200,000 - $400,000sLexington/Richland School District 5Coldwell Banker United® Realtors, 318-6888Lori Carnes, 318-6888www.TheBluffatChp.comDirections: Take I-26 to Harbison Blvd. and turn left. Turn right onto Broad River Road then left onto Lost Creek Drive. Turn right onto Bluff Pointe. Continue to second phase.

4. Bonhomme GreenPrice Range of New Homes: $118,000 - $145,000Lexington School District 1Wickersham Homes, Inc., 422-0590Jane Jefferson, 603-5924www.BonhommeGreen.comDirections: Take I-20 West to Exit #51 (Longs Pond Road). Travel north to second stop sign and turn right onto Barr Road. Go .75 mile and turn right onto Bonhomme Richard Road. Continue 1 block and turn right onto Bonhomme Circle.

6. Churchill Park at Lake FrancesPrice Range of New Homes: $200,000sLexington School District 1D. R. Horton, 214-2000Community Sales Manager, 214-2120www.DRHorton.comDirections: Take I-26 toward Charleston to Exit #113. Turn right onto Edmund Highway and continue for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Ramblin Road. The community is on the left.

7. The Courtyard at RidgemontPrice Range of New Homes: $235,000 - $298,500Lexington/Richland School District 5Century 21 Bob Capes Realtors, 730-6492Judy Looney, 730-6492 or Laura Schoonover, 413-9255www.CourtyardatRidgemont.netDirections: Take I-26 West to Exit #102 A. Go west on Lake Murray Blvd. Turn right at the 5th red light onto Ridgemont Drive, then turn right onto Brass Lantern Road.

8. Crescent RidgePrice Range of New Homes: From the low $100,000sLexington School District 1Rymarc Homes, 798-4900Marie Lybrand, 513-3991www.RymarcHomes.comDirections: Take I-20 West to Route #6 exit going toward Pelion. Go 7 miles to Route #6/Route #302 split. Follow Route #6 for .5 mile to the community entrance on the right.

9. Cunningham ParkPrice Range of New Homes: $169,000 - $215,000sLexington School District 1Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, 957-5566Ray Stoudemire, 960-3083www.RussellandJeffcoat.comDirections: Take Gervais Street (US Hwy #1) toward Lexington and go under I-26. Continue to the right onto Maple Road. Go .2 mile and Cunningham Park is on the right.

10. Deer CreekPrice Range of New Homes: From the low $200,000sRichland School District 2Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, 518-3638April Hiscock, 518-3638www.DeerCreekHomesites.comDirections: Take 277 North toward Charlotte. Continue North on I-77 to Exit #22 (Killian Road). Bear right (east) onto Clemson Road and turn left (north) onto Longtown Road. Follow approximately 2 miles and enter LongCreek Plantation. Go left onto Longtown Road (west). Follow 2.5 miles to Deer Creek Drive and turn left into the community.

11. Eagle PointePrice Range of New Homes: $140,000 - $170,000sLexington/Richland School District 5Realty and Marketing Services, 744-HOMEAgent on Duty, 744-HOMEwww.gshomes.gs Directions: Take I-26 West toward Spartanburg to Exit #91. Turn left toward Chapin. Go approximately 1.75 miles and turn left just past Wachovia Bank onto Lexington Avenue. Go approximately 2.5 miles and turn right onto Stucks Point Drive. Eagle Pointe will be .25 mile on the left. Alternately, from Hwy #76 turn left onto Wess-inger, right onto Old Lexington at the fire station then left onto Stucks Point Drive.

12. Eagles Rest at Lake MurrayPrice Range of New Homes: $222,400 - $314,540Lexington/Richland School District 5Shumaker Homes, 787-HOMEKristi Oberman/Vickie Proper, 407-3708www.ShumakerHomes.comDirections: Take I-26 West to Exit 101-A (Ballentine/White Rock/US #176). Merge to Dutch Fork Road. Turn left onto Johnson Marina Road and left onto Richard Franklin Road to the community entrance on the right.

13. Eve’s GardenPrice Range of New Homes: $240,000sKershaw County School DistrictCentury 21 Bob Capes Realtors, 699-2262Novella Taylor, 513-8165www.NovellaTaylor.comDirections: Take I-20 toward Florence to Exit #98. Turn left onto Hwy #521 then right onto Black River Road.

14. Farrow PointePrice Range of New Homes: From the low $100,000sRichland School District 2Rymarc Homes, 798-4900Daniel Hunt, 309-1390www.RymarcHomes.comDirections: Take I-77 North to Exit #19 (Farrow Road). Turn left onto Farrow Road toward Hardscrabble Road. Go .75 mile to the entrance on the left. The community is next to the new county recreation area.

15. Flora Springs ParkPrice Range of New Homes: $200,000 - $400,000sRichland School District 2Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, Inc.779-6000Laurie Craven, 767-0707 or Judy McPherson, 414-4500www.russellandjeffcoat.com/communities.aspx Directions: From Columbia, take Farrow Road North, turn right on Hardscrabble, right on Sloan, and right on Flora.

16. Haigs CreekPrice Range of New Homes: $290,000 - $400,000sKershaw County School DistrictHaigs Creek Development Corp., 600-0527Shelba W. Mattox, 600-0527www.HaigsCreek.comDirections: Take I-20 East to Exit #87 (White Pond Road) toward Elgin. Turn right onto frontage road and left into Haigs Creek.

New Home Communities NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD?

continued on page 64indicates a natural gas community


17. Harbour Watch on Lake MurrayPrice Range of Lots: $45,000+Lexington School District 3Harbour Watch on Lake Murray, 732-2411Lawrence Savage, 422-2930www.LakeMurrayLiving.comDirections: Visit our Sales Office at 2618 Hwy. 378, approximately 9 miles west of Lexington, SC.

18. Heritage FarmPrice Range of New Homes: $100,000 - $200,000sLexington School District 1D. R. Horton, 214-2000Community Sales Manager, 359-0244www.DRHorton.comDirections: Take I-20 toward Augusta to Exit #51 and turn right. Turn left onto Augusta Highway/Hwy #1 toward Gilbert. Go past Lexington High School and turn right onto Caulks Ferry Road. Heritage Farm is on the right.

19. Heritage ForestPrice Range of New Homes: From the $300,000sRichland School District 2Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, 518-3638April Hiscock, 518-3638www.HeritageForestHomes.comDirections: Take 277 to I-77 North to Exit #22 (Killian Road). Bear right (east) onto Clemson Road and turn left (north) onto Longtown Road. Follow approximately 2 miles and enter LongCreek Plantation. Turn left onto Longtown Road West. Follow 2.5 miles to LongCreek Plantation Drive and left into the community.

20. Hester WoodsPrice Range of New Homes: $113,950+Richland School District 2SB Communities, 699-3312Mary Ann Welsh, Century 21 Bob Capes Realtors, 699-7770Directions: Take 277 to I-77 North to Exit #19 (Farrow Rd.). Turn left. Turn right onto Hardscrabble Rd. Go just past North Brickyard Road and turn left into Hester Woods.

21. Jacob’s CreekPrice Range of New Homes: $140,000 - $220,000sRichland School District 2Realty and Marketing Services, 744-HOME

Bill Guess, 360-0941www.GSHomes.gs Directions: Take I-20 East to Exit #82 and turn left onto Spears Creek Church Road. Jacob’s Creek will be approxi-mately 3 miles on the right.

22. Jasmine PlacePrice Range of New Homes: $128,750 - $180,850Richland School District 1Shumaker Homes, 787-HOMEDarlene Reese, 754-0674www.ShumakerHomes.comDirections: Take I-77 North to Exit #19 (Farrow Road). Turn left onto Farrow Road and left onto Hardscrabble Road. Community entrance is on the right.

23. Killian StationPrice Range of New Homes: $123,200+Richland School District 2SB Communities, 699-3312Mike Turner, Century 21 Bob Capes Realtors, 462-1166Directions: Take 277 to I-77 North to Exit #22. Turn right onto Clemson Road. Go approximately 2 miles, just past Killian Elementary School and turn right into Killian Station.

24. Lake FrancesPrice Range of New Homes: From the $160,000sLexington School District 1LandTech, Inc. of SC, Jennifer L. Peak, 217-3935Scot Smith, Stallings & Smith, 205-6334www.LandTecSC.comDirections: From I-26, take the Airport Blvd/Highway #302 exit. Then turn right onto Ramblin Road. Lake Frances will be on your left.

25. The Lofts at Printers SquarePrice Range of New Homes: $739,000 - $1,410,000sRichland School District 1Coldwell Banker United Realtors, 227-3221Danny Hood, 227-3220www.LoftsatPrintersSquare.comDirections: Go to the corner of Lady St. and Pulaski in the Vista area.

26. Lakeshore at the Grove in Chestnut Hill PlantationPrice Range of New Homes: $190,000 - $260,000sLexington/Richland School District 5Beazer Homes, 779-6063

Agent on Duty, 407-7057www.Beazer.comDirections: Take I-26 West to Harbison Blvd and turn left onto Harbison Blvd. Turn right onto Broad River Road, then turn left onto Lost Creek Drive. Chestnut Hill Plantation is 3 miles ahead. Once inside Chestnut Hill Plan-tation, turn right onto Gauley Drive and follow road to the New Home Information Center.

27. The MillPrice Range of New Homes: $190,000sLexington School District 1D. R. Horton, 214-2000Community Sales Manager, 358-9262www.DRHorton.comDirections: Take I-20 toward Augusta. Take exit #51 and turn right. Go to the 4-way stop and turn right onto Barr Road. The Mill is on the left.

28. Park WestPrice Range of New Homes: $140,000 - $180,000sLexington/Richland School District 5Beazer Homes, 779-6063Agent on Duty, 345-0251www.Beazer.comDirections: Take I-26 West to Exit #91 (Chapin exit). Turn left onto Columbia Avenue and left onto Lexington Avenue. Lexington Avenue becomes Old Lexington Highway. Park West will be on your right approximately 1.5 miles.

29. Peachtree PlacePrice Range of New Homes: $180,000 - $225,000Lexington School District 1Rymarc Homes, 798-4900Stephany Connelly, 600-3695www.rymarc.comDirections: Take I-20 West to the Longs Pond Road exit and turn right. Go 2 miles to Rawl Road and turn right. Continue 1 mile to entrance on the right.

30. Persimmon GrovePrice Range of New Homes: From the $110,000sLexington School District 1Rymarc Homes, 798-4900Stephany Connelly, 600-43695www.rymarc.comDirections: Take I-20 West to Longs Pond Road exit. Turn right 1 mile to Barr Road. Turn left .5 mile to Persimmon Lane. Bear right onto

Persimmon Lane. Go .5 mile to the entrance on the right.

31. The Promenade at SandhillPrice Range of New Homes: $189,000 - $409,000Richland School District 2Kahn Development, 256-7471Sales by Judy Downing, [email protected]: Take I-20 East to the Clemson Road exit. Turn left onto Clemson Road. Follow Clemson Road to the Village at Sandhill on the left. Enter Village and follow the signs to the sales office at 846 Town Center Place.

32. Sandy Glen/CambridgeHills IIPrice Range of New Homes: High $100,000s - $200,000sRichland School District 2D. R. Horton, 214-2000Community Sales Manager, 736-0140www.DRHorton.comDirections: Take I-20 East to Exit #80. Take left onto Clemson Road. Go to Hardscrabble Road intersection and take a right. Go approximately 2.5 miles to Lake Carolina entrance. Follow directions to the community.

33. South BrookPrice Range of New Homes: $150,000 - $280,000sLexington School District 1Beazer Homes, 779-6063Agent on Duty, 356-4022www.Beazer.comDirections: Take I-20 West to Exit #51. Turn left onto Longs Pond Road. South Brook is 1 mile ahead on the left.

34. StonemontPrice Range of New Homes: $202,800 - $259,000Lexington/Richland School District 5Shumaker Homes, 787-HOMEJeff Graves/Will Moody, 732-1515www.ShumakerHomes.comDirections: Take I-26 West to Exit #101-A (Ballentine/White Rock). Turn right onto Koon Road to the Commu-nity Entrance on the left.

This listing is provided by the Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia.


DOWNTOWN & THE VISTA

AMERICANBernie’s $ B,L,D1311 Bluff Rd., 256-2888 Biscuit House $ B1019 Bluff Rd., 256-0958

Blue Tapas Bar & Cocktail Lounge $ 721 A Lady St., 251-4447Voted Best Cocktail

Finlay’s Restaurant $$ B,L,D1200 Hampton St. (in the Columbia Marriott), 771-7000

Flying Saucer $ L,D931 Senate St., 933-999

Gervais & Vine $$ DVoted Best AppetizerVoted Best Wine Menu620-A Gervais St., 799-VINE

Hunter-Gatherer Brewery $$ D900 Main St., 748-0540

Liberty Taproom & Grill $$ L,D828 Gervais St., 461-4677

Mac’s on Main $ L,D1710 Main St., 929-0037

Ruth’s Chris Steak House $$$ L,DVoted Best Steak 924-A Senate St. (at the Hilton), 212-6666

ASIANM. Café $$ L,D1417 Sumter St., 779-5789

Miyo’s Fine Shanghai & Szechuan Cuisine $$ L,DVoted Best Chinese Restaurant 922 S. Main St., 779-MIYO

COFFEE/DESSERTImmaculate Consumption $ B,L933 Main St., 799-9053

Nonnah’s $ L,DVoted Best Dessert 930 Gervais St., 779-9599

DELICool Beans! Coffee Co. $ B,L,D1217 College St., 779-4277

No Name Deli $ L2042 Marion St., 242-0480

FINE DININGColumbo’s $$ B,L,D, SBR2100 Bush River Rd. (in the Radisson), 744-2200

Hampton Street Vineyard $$$ L,D1201 Hampton St., 252-0850

Hennessy’s $$ L,D1649 Main St., 799-8280

Motor Supply Co. Bistro $$ L,D920 Gervais St., 256-6687

P.O.S.H. $$ B,L,D1400 Main St. (at the Sheraton), 988-1400

Ristorante Divino $$$ DVoted Best Fine Dining Restaurant 803 Gervais St., 799-4550

ITALIANMellow Mushroom $ L,D1009 Gervais St., 933-9201

Villa Tronco $$ L,D 1213 Blanding St., 256-7677

NATURAL/HEALTHGarden Bistro $ B,L923 Gervais St., 933-9085

Nice-N-Natural $ L1217 College St., 799-3471

SEAFOODBlue Marlin $-$$ L,DVoted Best Seafood Restuarant 1200 Lincoln St., 799-3838

The Oyster Bar $-$$ D1123 Park St., 799-4484

SOUTHERN300 Senate at the Canal $-$$ L 300 Senate St., 748-8909

Lizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family RestaurantVoted Best Grits 818 Elmwood Ave., 779-6407

STEAKLonghorn Steakhouse $-$$ L,D902-A Gervais St., 254-5100

SUSHICamon Japanese Restaurant $$$ D1332 Assembly St., 254-5400

SakiTumi $$ L,D807 Gervais St., 931-0700

WINGSCarolina Wings $ L,D 600 Gervais St., 256-8844

Wild Wing Cafe $ L,D729 Lady St., 252-9464

FIVE POINTS & DEVINE STREET

AMERICANGoatfeather’s $-$$ D, SBR2017 Devine St., 256-3325

Harper’s Restaurant $-$$ L,D700 Harden St., 252-2222

Mr. Friendly’s $$-$$$ L,D2001-A Greene St., 254-7828

Salty Nut $ L,D2000-A Greene St., 256-4611

Yesterday’s $$ L,D2030 Devine St., 799-0196

ASIANBaan Sawan $$$ D2135 Devine St., 252-8992

Egg Roll Chen $ L,D715 Crowson Rd., 787-6820

DELIAdriana’s $ B,L,D721 Saluda Ave., 799-7595

Andy’s Deli $ L,D2005 Greene St., 799-2639

DiPrato’s $ L,D, SBRVoted Best Sunday Brunch 342 Pickens St., 779-0606

The Gourmet Shop $ B,L724 Saluda Ave., 799-3705

Groucho’s Deli $ L,DVoted Best Sandwich 611 Harden St., 799-5708

FINE DININGDianne’s on Devine $$$ DVoted Best Wait Staff 2400 Devine St., 254-3535

GERMANJulia’s German Stammtisch $$ L,D4341 Ft. Jackson Blvd., 738-0630

GREEKDevine Foods $ L,D2702 Devine St., 252-0356

INDIANIndia Pavilion $ L,D2011 Devine St., 252-4355

IRISHDelaney’s $ L,D741 Saluda Ave., 779-2345

ITALIANGaribaldi’s $$$ DVoted Best Restaurant in Columbia2013 Greene St., 771-8888

MEXICANEl Burrito $ L,D934 Harden St., 765-2188

Eric’s San Jose $ L,DVoted Best Mexican Restaurant 6118 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6650

NATURAL/HEALTHMediterranean Tea Room $ L,D2601 Devine St., 799-3118

PIZZALaBrasca $ L,D4365 Jackson Blvd., 782-1098

Village Idiot $ L,D2009 Devine St., 252-8646

Za’s Brick Oven Pizza $ L,DVoted Best Pizza 2930 Devine St., 771-7334

SOUTHERNLizard’s Thicket $ B,L,DVoted Best Bang for the BuckVoted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits 7938 Garners Ferry Rd., 647-0095

SUSHISaky $-$$ D 4963 Jackson Blvd., 787-5307

Sushi Yoshi $ D2019 Devine St., 931-0555

NORTHEAST

AMERICAN5 Guys Famous Burgers & Fries $ L,DVoted Best French Fries460-2 Town Center Place, 788-6200

Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar $$$ DVoted Best Restaurant in Northeast841-4 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-6966

Village Bistro $$ L,D,SBR498-1 Town Center Place, 227-2710

DELIGroucho’s Deli $ L,DVoted Best Sandwich • 111 Sparkleberry Ln., 419-6767• 730 University Village Dr., 754-4509

Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery $ B,LVoted Best Bakery 8502 E Two Notch Rd., 736-CAKE

FINE DININGArizona’s $$$ L,D150 Forum Dr., 865-1001

GREEKZorba’s $ L,DVoted Best Greek Restaurant 2628 Decker Blvd., 736-5200

ITALIANTravinia Italian Kitchen $$ L,D101 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd., 419-9313

MEXICANHola Mexico $ L,D10014 C Two Notch Rd., 865-7758

San Jose $ L,D • 801 Sparkleberry Ln., 419-8861• 420 McNulty St. #C, 735-9787• 808 Highway 1S, 438-2133

SEAFOODBlue Fin $$ L,D461-4 Town Center Pl., 865-7346

SOUTHERNLizard’s Thicket $ B,L,DVoted Best Bang for the BuckVoted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 7620 Two Notch Rd., 788-3088• 10170 Two Notch Rd., 419-5662

Mint Julep $-$$ D120 Sparkleberry Crossing Dr., 419-7200

STEAKLonghorn Steakhouse $-$$ L,D2760 Decker Blvd., 736-7464

Steak Carolina $-$$ L (Sat only), D5 Lake Carolina Way, Ste 170, 661-6424

WINGSCarolina Wings $ L,D 2000-18 Clemson Rd., 419-0022

D’s Restaurant $ L,DVoted Best Wings111 Sparkleberry Crossing, 462-1895

Wild Wing Cafe $ L,D480-2 Town Center Place, 865-3365

IRMO

AMERICANSticky Fingers $-$$ L,D380 Columbiana Dr., 781-7427

ASIANMiyo’s at Columbiana Place $$ L,DVoted Best Chinese Restaurant 1220 E-2 Bower Pkwy., 781-7788

GOOD EATS

KEY$ - $10 or less $$ - $11 to $20 $$$ - $21 and up

B - BreakfastL - LunchD - DinnerSBR - Sunday Brunch

Columbia Metropolitan’s 2009 Best of Columbia contest winners are in red.

Restaurant Guide


Miyabi Kyoto $$ L (Sun only),DColumbiana Centre, Harbison Blvd., 407-0574

Thai Lotus Restaurant $ L,DVoted Best Thai Restaurant 612 St. Andrews Rd., 561-0006

DELIGroucho’s Deli $ L,DVoted Best Sandwich • 800 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-4515• 2009 Broad River Rd., 750-3188

FONDUEThe Melting Pot $$$ DVoted Best Romantic Dinner 1410 Colonial Life Blvd., 731-8500

GREEKZorba’s $ L, DVoted Best Greek Restaurant 6169 St. Andrews Rd, 772-4617

ITALIANAlodia’s Cucina Italian $-$$ L,D2736 N. Lake Dr., 781-9814

INDIANDelhi Palace $ L,D1029 Briargate Cir., 750-0866

MEDITERRANEANAl-Amir $$ L,DVoted Best Restaurant in Irmo 7001 St. Andrews Rd., 732-0522

MEXICANEl Chico Restaurant $$$ L,D1728 Bush River Rd., 772-0770

Little Mexico $ L,D6164 St. Andrews Rd., 798-6045

San Jose $ L,D• 1000 Marina Rd., 749-9484• 498 Piney Grove Rd., 750-3611

NATURAL/HEALTHSun Ming Chinese Restaurant $ L,D7509 St. Andrews Rd., 732-4488

PIZZACustom Pizza Company $$ L,D6801-3 St. Andrews Rd., 781-6004

Bonefish Grill $$-$$$ D1260 Bower Pkwy., 407-1599

Catch 22 $$ L,D1085 D Lake Murray Blvd., 781-9916

SOUTHERNLizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the Buck Voted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 7569 St. Andrews Road, 732-1225• 1824 Broad River Rd., 798-6427

STEAKLonghorn Steakhouse $-$$ L,D171 Harbison Blvd., 732-2482

SUSHIInakaya $-$$ L,DVoted Best Sushi Restaurant 655-C St. Andrews Rd., 731-2538

WINGSCarolina Wings $ L,D7587 St. Andrews Rd., 781-0084

D’s Restaurant $ L,DVoted Best Wings 285 Columbiana Dr., 227-0238

Wild Wing Cafe $ L,D1150 Bower Parkway, 749-9464

Wings & Ale $ L,D125-C Outlet Pointe Blvd., 750-1700

LEXINGTON

BARBECUEHudson’s Smokehouse $ L,DVoted Best Barbecue Voted Best Ribs4952 Sunset Blvd., 356-1070

DELICafe 403 $ L403 N. Lake Dr., 808-2992

Groucho’s Deli $ L,DVoted Best Sandwich 117 1/2 East Main St., 356-8800

FINE DININGLexington Arms $$ D314A West Main St., 359-2700

ITALIANTravinia Italian Kitchen $$ L,DVoted Best Restaurant in Lexington 5074 Sunset Blvd., 957-2422

MEXICANEric’s San Jose $ L,DVoted Best Mexican Restaurant 604 Columbia Ave. 957-9443

San Jose $ L,D4510 Augusta Rd., 957-5171

SOUTHERNLizard’s Thicket $ B,L,DVoted Best Bang for the BuckVoted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits 621 West Main St., 951-3555


WINGSBuffalo’s Café $ L,D5464 Sunset Blvd., 808-6001

Carolina Wings $ L,D 105 North Pointe Dr., 356-6244

CAYCE & WEST COLUMBIA

AMERICANNew Orleans Riverfront $$ L,DVoted Best Outdoor Dining 121 Alexander Rd., 794-5112

COFFEE/DESSERTCafé Strudel $ B,L118 State St., 794-6634

DELIHouse Coffee $ B,L,D116 State St., 791-5663

FINE DININGAl’s Upstairs $$$ DVoted Best Italian Restaurant 300 Meeting St., 794-7404

Terra $$ D100 State St., 791-3443

GREEKGrecian Gardens $$ L,D2312 Sunset Blvd., 794-7552

Nick’s $$ L,D1082 Sunset Blvd., 794-9240

SOUTHERNLizard’s Thicket $ B,L,D Voted Best Bang for the BuckVoted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 2240 Airport Blvd., 796-7820

• 501 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-0314• 2234 Sunset Blvd., 794-0923

WINGSCarolina Wings $ L,D 2347-C Augusta Rd., 791-0260

D’s Wings $ L,D920 Axtell Dr., 791-4486

FOREST ACRES

AMERICANTombo Grille $$ D4517 Forest Dr., 782-9665

ASIANMiyo’s on Forest $$ L,DVoted Best Chinese Restaurant 3250 Forest Dr., Suite B, 743-9996

Sakura $-$$ L,D20 Forest Lake Shopping Center, 738-9330

Sato $$ D1999 Beltline Blvd., 782-1064

DELI

Groucho’s Deli $ L,DVoted Best Sandwich 4717 Forest Dr., 790-0801

McAlister’s Deli $ L,D 4710-A Forest Dr., 790-5995

ITALIANItalian Pie $$ L,D3246 Forest Dr., 454-1743

Pasta Fresca $$ D3405 Forest Dr., 787-1838

Rosso $$ D4840 Forest Dr., 787-3949

MEXICANCasa Linda $ L,D

2009 Beltline Blvd., 738-0420

San Jose $ L,D 4722 Forest Dr., 462-7184

NATURAL/HEALTHZoe’s $ L,DVoted Best New Restaurant 4855 Forest Dr., 782-1212

PIZZA Paulie’s Pizzeria $ L, D 4515 Forest Dr, 787-5005

SEAFOODBonefish Grill $$-$$$ D4708 Forest Dr., 787-6200

SOUTHERNLizard’s Thicket $ B,L,DVoted Best Bang for the BuckVoted Best Family Restaurant Voted Best Grits • 402 Beltline Blvd., 738-0006• 3147 Forest Dr., 787-8781

WINGSD’s Restaurant $ L,DVoted Best Wings2005 Beltline Blvd., 787-2595

ROSEWOOD

AMERICANRockaway Athletic Club $ L, DVoted Best Hamburger2719 Rosewood Dr., 256-1075

DELIThe Deli at Rosewood Market $-$$ L,D,SBR2803 Rosewood Dr., 256-6410

ITALIANMoe’s Grapevine $$ L, D4478 Rosewood Dr., 776-8463

PIZZADano’s $ L,D2800 Rosewood Dr., 254-3266

Pizza Man $ L,D341 S Woodrow St., 252-6931

REMBERT

FINE DININGBoykins at the Mill Pond $$$ D84 Boykin Mill Rd., (803) 425-8825

Lilfreds of Rembert $$$ D8425 Camden Hwy., (803) 432-7063

CHAPIN

FINE DININGMark’s $$-$$$ L,D,SBR2371 Dutch Fork Rd., 781-2807

SEAFOODRusty Anchor $$-$$$ DVoted Best Lakeside Restaurant 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555

Visit www.columbiametro.com for an extended listing.


PICTURE THIS

Symphony League First Chair Gourmet Events

Anne Robinson, Morihiko Nakahara, Bob Robinson

Ed Griswold, Anna Griswold, Judy Small, Parks Small, Wanda Loftin, David Loftin

Carolyn Donahoo, Merrill Donahoo

Bruce Bahr, Morihiko Nakahara

Emily Lewis, Sandra Johnson, Penny Nieri

John Runy, Dolly Runy, Sally Wood, Bert Wood

Bhavna Vasudeva, Raj Vasudeva Billy Rawl, Alida Rawl

Christian Thee, Bruce Bahr

Ken Houghton, Pat Galvin, Helen Houghton Avis O’ Leary, Thomas Snider, Sylvia Snider, Sandra Johnson

Constance Myers, Cecil Myers, Lee Minghi David Allison, Wanda Allison, Rick Palyok, Pamela Mode

Emmala Barnett, Rhonda Hunsinger, Scott Hallyburton, Morihiko Nakahara, Shirley Henderson, Bob Henderson

Judie Nye, John Nye, Abby Carnes


Richland County Public Library’s Fond Farewell to C. David Warren

Julie Wilson, Jennifer Newman Michael Nieri, Emily Lewis, Robyn Nieri, Buddy Lewis, Raj Vasudeva

Morihiko Nakahara, John Hunsinger, Patsy Farr Shirley Henderson, Abby Carnes Lynn Hodge, Clare Hodge

Rick Smoak, Shirley Henderson, Abby Carnes Suzi Fields, Sandy Fields Tom Brown, Ellen Brown

C. David Warren, John Baker C. David Warren, Martha Monteith Crawford Clarkson, Sarah Clarkson, Arrington Cox Walker, Julian Walker

Caroline Hipp, Helen Rapoport, Anne Bagwell Mary McAfee, C. David Warren, Ida Thompson Nonnie Price, Jay McKay, Betsy McKay


PICTURE THIS

Lake Carolina Oyster Roast

NAI Avant Client Appreciation Event

David Tuttle, Brian Boyer, Robert Vickery Renee Royall, Megan Dilley, Bill Turner, Tara Price, Lara Turner

Paul Hartley, Roger Winn, Lindsey Graham Joe Wilson, Elie Abikhaled Alan Kahn, Robert King

Rosalie Hamilton, Dan Avant, Tom McTeer Kevin Markland, Ben Arnold, Derek Raper Paige Hamilton, Tom Milliken, Laura Anderson

Bruce Harper, Gary Pennington Ashley Batson, Bess Satcher Stick Thibodeaux, Gene Dinkins Damon Jeter, Paul Livingston

Bruce Harper, Rob Lapin, Jerry Kline, Todd Avant Tom Milliken, Wick Stuart Hal Cottingham, Patrick Chambers

Alicia Harper, Jerry Kline, Cindy Stallings Kelly Gallentine, Laura Anderson, Paige Hamilton, Jade Swords, Lexie Smith


JUST MARRIED

Julie New and Jason HarbaughWW

W.C

LA

RK

BE

RR

Y.C

OM

Shawn Silkensen and Shannon Lemrow Elly Hendricks and Justin Swindler WW

W.M

ICH

AE

LK

OS

KA

.CO

M

WW

W.M

ICH

AE

LK

OS

KA

.CO

M

Kevin Budman and Nora HelmanWW

W.C

LA

RK

BE

RR

Y.C

OM

Ella Nixon and Matt Firtko WW

W.C

LA

RK

BE

RR

Y.C

OM

Cameron Sherban and Jena Keene WW

W.M

ICH

AE

LK

OS

KA

.CO

M

juneCeliac Sprue Association, 781-6395June 14 Gluten-Free Picnic, Saluda Shoals Park, 2

to 5pm

City Center Partnership, 779-4005through June 26 2009 Main Street Marketplace,

Fridays, 10am to 2pm

Colonial Life Arena, 576-9200June 25 Dane Cook, 8pm

Columbia Museum of Art, 799-2810through June 7 Turner to Cézanne: Masterpieces

from the Davies Collection, National Museum Wales

through June 28 The Art of RecoveryJune 1 to July 3 Summer camps for all agesJune 26 to Sept. 27 Cleve Gray: Man and Nature

Columbia’s First Baptist Church, 343-8552

June 28 The 22nd Annual Carolina Celebration of Liberty, 4 & 7:30pm

EdVenture, 779-3100June 6 The Mysterious Disappearance of Cati PillarJune 9 Family Night, 5 to 8pmJune 13 Team Up! opens

Historic Columbia Foundation, 252-1770June 6 & 7 Hands-on-History Tour of Robert Mills

HouseJune 8 Moonlight Cemetery Tours, 8 & 8:30,

Elmwood CemeteryJune 27 & 28 Cura Tour of Hampton Preston

Mansion

Koger Center, 777-7500June 2 & 3 Broadway in Columbia presents

Chicago, 7:30pmJune 6 South Carolina Body Building

Championships, 10am & 6:30pmJune 26 USC Summer Band Camp Concert, 1:30pm

Lake Carolina, 865-5452June 4, 11, 18, 25 Farmers Market, 2:30 to 7pm

Lighthouse Marina, 604-1409June 9 Ladies Day on the Lake 9 to 3pm

Little Gym, 463-6310June 1 to July 3 Summer camps for all ages

McKissick Museum, 777-7251through July 25 The Life and Times of

Congressman Robert Smallsthrough Aug. 1 Worth Keeping: Traditions in the

Permanent Collectionthrough Aug. 15 Order Now! Decorating the

Modern Home

Newberry Opera House, (803) 276-6264June 6 Rocket Man - A Tribute to Sir Elton John,

8pmJune 7 A Carolina Jubilee, 3pm

Nickelodeon, 254-3433Through June 2 Everlasting Moments, 5:30 & 8pmJune 3 through 9 Paris 36June 17 through 23 Sin NombreJune 24 through 30 Sugar

Riverbanks Zoo, 779-8717through Oct. 28 Farmers Market at Riverbanks

Botanical Garden, Wednesdays, 2 to 7pmJune 8 Summer camps for all ages beginJune 21 Father’s Day

Sandhill Farmers Market, 788-5700through Nov. 24 Market open every Tuesday,

2:30pm, Clemson’s Sandhill Research & Education Center

SC Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, 737-8287

through Aug. 2 No Holier Spot of Ground: Confederate Memory in SC’s Cemeteries, Monuments and Museums

June 6 & 14 Beyond Museum Cases Tour: The SC Confederate Relic Room & Military Museum and Columbia’s Monuments

SC State Museum, 898-4921through June 28 Our National Treasure: The

American Red Crossthrough Aug. 23 Robert Courtright: Collages,

Collage Constructions and Masks 1953-2008through Sept. 7 Powers of NatureJune 5 Tangible History: Stoneware from the

Holcombe Family Collection opensJune 5 Girls in Science DayJune 7 $1 SundayJune 7 Society of American Foresters, “Insects: The

Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” 1 to 4pmJune 8 to Aug. 14 Mad Science Summer CampsJune 6, 13, 21, 27 Museum Highlights ToursJune 22 to 26 Art CampJune 6 & 7 Museum and a Movie: Hurricane!,

2pmJune 13 & 14 Museum and a Movie: Lightning!,

2pmJune 20 & 21 Museum and a Movie: Hurricane

Katrina: The Storm that Drowned a City, 2pmJune 27 & 28 Museum and a Movie: Hunt for the

Supertwister, 2pm

Trustus, 254-9732June 19 to July 25 The Rocky Horror Show

USDA Rural Development, 253-3725June 2 Homeownership Tent Event, 10am to 2pm,

Home Depot in Lexington

Village Artists Gallery, 699-8886through June 15 Spring Fever show

Woodley’s, 788-1487 & 407-0601June 20 Cooking with Herbs

OUT & ABOUT


First Baptist Church’s Celebration of Liberty

Chicago: The Musical

june 2009 columbia metropolitan

Documents

blooma columbia woman

nthe magazine

robin nalepa

katie mcelveen42

jessica berger16

premiere issue

publisher10 city scoop20

jennifer covington