Dr. Todd Gibson was born and raised in New England and attended undergraduate and graduate school through the state university system in Connecticut. “As a child, I was always outdoors and loved to do anything that didn’t require being inside the house,” he recalls. His dream was to become a Public Relations writer; he originally graduated with a marketing and journalism degree in 1989. “We were in the throes of a recession at that time,” he recalls, “and finding an entry-level position was next to impossible.” At that point, he reevaluated which career path he truly felt aligned with and…
Author: Tracy Tuten
Barbecue Chicken Pizza with Mustard Green Pesto INGREDIENTS: Mustard Green Pesto: (makes two batches) 3 c. WP Rawl Farms® Mustard Greens 1/4 c. toasted almonds 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 c. grated parmesan 1/3 c. olive oil PIZZA: 2 c. cooked chicken, shredded 1/3 c. barbecue sauce 1 pizza dough ball Mustard green pesto to taste 2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced DIRECTIONS: Place mustard greens, almonds, garlic, and parmesan in a food processor, pulse to chop. Slowly stream in olive oil while the motor runs, scraping down sides as needed, until pesto is creamy. Season…
By Scarlett Sanders Everyone needs care at some time in their life. Therefore, one of the decisions you must face is where you want to receive care as you age. Whether in the comfort of your own home or a senior living community, there are many options, and each offers a unique approach depending on individual needs and preferences. As I watched my grandparents age, I was inspired by the care that they received and felt called to become a leader in the senior care industry so that I may help families along their journey of aging. It is important…
By Tori Lewis One of the best ways to encourage a spirit of compassion and develop an attitude of empathy in others is by example. When you donate your time, resources, attention, or financial support to worthy charities, you become a vital part of the solution. Training and education are first and foremost, fostering awareness of a specific need, showing how it affects the immediate area, strategically planning for potential future complications if not addressed, and offering realistic temporary or permanent remedies. As you may know, volunteers are the backbone of fundraising; a huge amount of time and energy is…
By Randy & Shelly Langston A group of brave women from South Carolina played a crucial role in the United States Army 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II. Among them was Evelyn Reed Trice from Lexington County, who was part of the largest all-black, all-female unit to serve in the war, known as the 6888th Battalion. Over 30 women from South Carolina were a part of this historic battalion. The incredible story of the 6888th Battalion is now the subject of a Netflix film titled “The Six-Triple-Eight,” written and directed by Tyler Perry. Evelyn was born on…
By Kristi Antley Motorcycles became readily available to the American public in the early 1900s, promoting adventure, rebellion, mystery, and unobstructed freedom. The initial prototypes were not only for fun; they were fast, agile machines that could easily navigate the battlefields of World War I and II, delivering messages when radio signals were weak, transporting supplies, and aiding injured soldiers. Unfortunately, bikers were often stereotyped as mean, dangerous, or disorderly, and viewed as outcasts or outlaws. Vintage Hollywood actors such as James Dean, Marlon Brando, and Steve McQueen greatly softened the negative image, creating an atmosphere of glamor, sex appeal,…
By Jerry Grimes Our phones don’t just ring anymore; they ding, buzz, and chime, alerting us to the latest news and messages from work, friends, and family. They also remind us of appointments, keep us updated on our never-ending to-do lists, pressure us to be “social” on apps and websites, and urge us to stay occupied every minute of the day. That’s why what you need most right now isn’t the latest time management hack, a new workout routine, or advice on how to “work smarter, not harder.” What you need, more than anything else, is rest from the instant…
By Marilyn Thomas With summer vacation and school break on the horizon, the three mayors of Lexington, Irmo, and Chapin came together to plan a series of special family-friendly activities to be hosted in the parks in each of their respective communities. The outcome of that meeting is the Mayor’s Storytime in the Park—11 literacy-promoting events that will be held on the second, third, and fourth Tuesdays at 10:30 am during May, June, July, and August. These activities are an ideal opportunity for locals to make new friends, meet the mayors, and enjoy the fresh air and facilities in Lexington…
By Paige Youmans Lexington County has a multitude of resources and organizations that provide mental, physical, nutritional, legal, financial, and educational opportunities for disadvantaged residents. Such programs not only benefit the receiver, but the volunteer as well. Our Town Magazine was excited to learn more about the Community Juvenile/Youth Arbitration Program so that we could share the steps of how to become a volunteer. The program began in the 11th Judicial Circuit in 1983 by former Lexington County Solicitor, Donnie Myers. This program introduced and integrated the community to youth crime intervention and prevention by offering first time, nonviolent youthful…
Publisher’s Letter Whew! Is it getting hot outside, or is it just me? With the heat comes all the exciting summer activities for sun lovers, and a lack thereof for some who prefer cooler temperatures. Those of us who are of the mindset to get the most out of this season are ready for it! As the end of the school year approaches, kids are ready to hang out with friends with no homework in sight for the next few months. This would be a perfect opportunity to encourage your child to get involved or start a charity of their…