Contents

Chair’s Message

Chamber Leadership

Feature: Celebrating Small Businesses in Lexington

Feature: Summer in Lexington Offers the Best of the Season

Shareholder Spotlight: Sorinex Exercise Equipment

Elite Shareholders

Get To Know: F. Mark Stone of JB Martin

Lexington Events: Dining on the Dam

Lexington Events: Spring Golf Tournament

Investing in Tomorrow, Student Leadership Conference

Grow Your Business

Member Directory

Chair’s Remarks

Dear Chamber Shareholders,

As the season shifts and the Midlands comes alive with energy and opportunity, so too does the momentum within our business community. This time of year brings a renewed sense of purpose, and your Lexington Chamber has been hard at work creating meaningful experiences and connections that help our local businesses thrive.

In February, the Chamber hosted LEXPO, our annual business trade show. This year’s sports-themed event was a slam dunk, featuring décor inspired by the world of athletics and bringing together our largest crowd to date. Business leaders enjoyed an energetic evening making valuable connections, showcasing their products and services, and meeting potential new clients.

We also hosted another incredible Dining on the Dam in March, celebrating the very best of South Carolina. Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening filled with exceptional food, drinks, and live entertainment, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Murray. It was a true showcase of our state’s flavor and charm, and we are grateful to the many sponsors who made it possible.

Looking ahead, we are excited to celebrate Small Business Week, taking place May 4-8, 2026. This year’s lineup includes a Cinco De Mayo-themed Business After Hours at Old Mill Brewpub, our annual Shareholder Appreciation Luncheon, and a Women’s Leadership Council Quarterly Luncheon. We also look forward to our Spring Golf Tournament on May 18. Be sure to gather your team and join us for a great day on the course.

In addition, the Chamber is proud to have partnered with the Rotary Club of Lexington, hosting a Student Leadership Conference at the end of April. This impactful event featured keynote speakers and breakout sessions led by industry professionals, along with opportunities for students to connect directly with Midlands business leaders across a variety of fields. I am proud of our Chamber’s continued commitment to supporting local education and investing in the development of our future workforce.

This magazine unlocks valuable resources for your business growth. Network with fellow members, discover new opportunities, and explore the benefits of your membership. Our staff offer a variety of gatherings to promote your companies. Also, this publication includes a searchable member directory (at the back) to fuel your success. Dive in and make the most of your membership!

If you’re not a shareholder of the Lexington Chamber, we invite you to join today and make an investment in your business.

Trey Powell

Owner
Mosquito Joe & Wonderly Lights

Chamber Leadership

2025-2026 Board of Directors

Executive Committee

Trey Powell

Chairman

Mosquito Joe of Lake Murray

Austin McVay

Chair-Elect

United Community Bank

Misty Stathos

Past Chair

State Farm Insurance Agency

Oneal Staples

Secretary

JC Wilkie Construction

Kenny Workman

Treasurer

Sorinex Exercise Equipment

Board Members

Nick Annan

Elliott Davis

Lisa Beebe

Hansen International

Shelia Carland

Comporium

Graem Clark

Colonial Life & Accident Insurance

Rebecca Davis

TD Bank

Drake DelosSantos

Prisma Health

Daphne Freeman

JANPRO Cleaning & Disinfecting

Ben Fuller

First Citizens Bank

Jonathan Gamboa

Elite Lawn & Landscape, LLC

Sherry Gunter

Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union

Trevis Hall

Dominion Energy

David Hayth

Lake Murray Digital

Alex Huggins

The Palmetto Mortgage Group

Paul Kabis

Heidelberg Materials

Manning Kolb

Brand Buzz

Eli Lykes

Lexington Paintball

Angel Mendez

Herndon Chevrolet

Joe Mergo

Nephron Pharmaceuticals

Joel Merrill

Flagship Signs

Konrad Orzechowski

Kay Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Laura Reid

RE/MAX Purpose Driven

Brandon Rice

Michelin NA, Inc.

Roger Sipe

Lexington Health

Meredith Perry Sox

The Perry Agency

Shawn Stinson

BlueCross BlueShield of SC

Paige Warren-Long

Nucor Buildings Group

Ex-Officio Directors

Rachelle Gleaton

Town of Lexington

Devin Henson

Midlands Technical College

Chip Huggins

University of South Carolina

Keith Price

Lexington County School District One

Lynn Sturkie

County of Lexington

Chris White

Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Staff

Nina Glisson

Visitors Center Coordinator

(803) 359-6113, ext. 100

[email protected]

Karen Johnston

Programs & Events Director

(803) 359-6113, ext. 102

[email protected]

Angelle LaBorde, CCE

President & CEO

(803) 359-6113, ext. 105

[email protected]

Trent Loggins

Content Strategist

(803) 359-6113, ext. 103

[email protected]

Leigh Lowery

Membership Director

(803) 359-6113, ext. 104

[email protected]

Kristen Schalund

Finance Associate

(803) 359-6113, ext. 106

[email protected]

Rosemary Wilson

Director of Finance

(803) 359-6113, ext. 106

[email protected]

Celebrating Small Businesses In Lexington:

Showcasing Local Flavor, Unique Gifts and Fashion

By Erin Sauder

Blush Boutique & Home

The inspiration for Blush Boutique & Home started when Stephanie Niemeyer’s favorite local gift shop closed its doors several years ago.

“It was my go-to shop when I needed to pick up a gift,” she said. “After it was gone, I felt like there was something missing here in Lexington.”

Filling that gap became a real plan for Niemeyer as she opened the gift store.

She hasn’t been alone in the venture. Her daughter, Samantha “Sammie” Seabolt, joined her at the start of the business while still in college and remains her partner today.

The shop, at 5175 Sunset Blvd., recently celebrated its 12th anniversary. While the inventory is always changing, the focus is on helping people find gifts for any occasion.

To fill the shelves, Niemeyer and Seabolt travel together to various markets to hand-pick each piece.

“We have just really enjoyed the experience of picking out and curating all the things we put in the store,” Niemeyer said.

The shop is also well-known for showcasing local talent.

“We carry a lot of locally-sourced inventory,” Niemeyer said. “We also do a lot of pop-ups. That’s one of the things we’re best known for.”

Several times a month, they invite local creators into the store — from bakers to jewelry designers — for those events.

“People that are starting their own business or have a side hustle they love to do...we offer space free of charge,” Niemeyer said. “That’s one of our ways of giving back to the community. We enjoy it and we’ve made a lot of friends that way.”

Scoop of Heaven

Ask Suzanne Pucci about the best ice cream she’s ever had, and she’ll tell you it’s from Scoop of Heaven. While you might expect the owner to say that, she isn’t the only one who has been won over.

Since opening in 2024, Pucci says she’s heard the same sentiment from countless visitors who have walked through the shop doors at 565 Spears Creek Church Road in Elgin, SC.

“I’ve had so many people tell us there is no ice cream better than our ice cream,” she said. “Our recipe is proprietary, and it took us nearly two years to perfect. We use the best ingredients and do not cut corners on anything.”

Out of a library of hundreds of flavors, 31 rotate through the shop at a time. Top sellers include Peanut Butter Overload, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Butter Pecan, the latter which Pucci calls “a pretty standard southern favorite.”

The inspiration for the shop came while Pucci was overseeing the construction of her own strip plaza. Realizing the growing Elgin area was missing a dedicated space for families to connect, she decided to fill one of the storefronts herself.

“I really wanted a place where families could come, bring their kids, and have that family time,” she said.

Pucci’s success with Scoop of Heaven has her planning for more locations. She hopes to see the Lexington shop open this summer, with plans to eventually open at least five stores across the Midlands. There is also a food truck in the shop’s future. Pucci expects to have it ready within two months for weddings, graduations, and even local baseball tournaments.

Pucci stays busy outside the shop, serving as the chair of the McDaniels Auto Group Golf Classic and Gala. She plans to provide ice cream at both upcoming events to benefit the Lexington Health Foundation.

“I love being involved in the community and being able to support some of the great charities that help our community and make it better,” Pucci said.

The Yummy Cakery

The story of The Yummy Cakery didn’t start with a business plan. It started with a mom on a quest to find a birthday cake.

While planning her daughter’s first birthday party, Kimberlene O’Connor found out that no local baker would create a two-tier cake for anything other than a wedding. Not ready to commit to a standard sheet cake, O’Connor decided to try her hand at it in her own kitchen.

“I went to the store, picked up some supplies, and started practicing,” she said.

It didn’t take long for O’Connor to realize she had found a new passion.

“A few weeks later, on Christmas morning, my husband surprised me with one of every (baking) tool, gadget and supply I could need,” she said. “From there, I kept practicing, and my neighbors, family and friends were incredibly supportive. They started ordering from me and helping me grow.”

Soon, she was able to grow into a storefront at 404 W. Main St., Suite A. Today, The Yummy Cakery is known for creating everything from scratch using simple, high-quality ingredients. As the bakery’s website says, every dessert is made with love and a whole lot of butter. To keep things convenient, the shop offers online ordering for busy schedules and options to fit every budget.

The menu includes cupcakes, mini cakes, cake pops, cake push pops, smash cakes, and a variety of multi-tier cakes.

Since opening The Yummy Cakery, O’Connor has made it a priority to support local causes. One initiative is the “Skip the Tip – Help a Paw” program, where customers can donate instead of tipping, with proceeds going to the Lexington County Animal Shelter. Another is the “Cupcake Bucks” program. O’Connor provides these “bucks” to area schools to be used as rewards for Students of the Week.

“We’re excited to keep growing our community involvement and stay connected to the Lexington area,” she said.

Tulip Boutique

For Suzie Baughman, opening Tulip Boutique, a women’s contemporary clothing shop, was about more than just a career change.

After spending two decades in the legal field, she decided it was finally time to pursue a different path. And that inspiration for her next chapter came from her mom.

“I grew up with a shared love of fashion, styling and shopping, inspired by mom,” Baughman said. “So opening Tulip, which is named in honor of my mom and her favorite flower, has truly been a dream come true.”

Located at 5175 Sunset Boulevard, Unit 5, the shop carries a variety of contemporary women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. Baughman focuses on a curated collection that ranges from classic, everyday styles to elevated statement pieces, featuring popular brands such as Emily McCarthy, Elizabeth James, Alden Adair, Kut from the Kloth, and Crosby by Mollie Burch.

For Baughman, Tulip is her “happy place.”

“So I want every person that walks through the door to feel that too,” she said.

That’s why the shop is intentionally designed to feel less like a retail store and more like a welcoming space for visitors to relax, Baughman said.

“We want them to feel welcome, invited, cared for and beautiful,” she said. “So when you walk through the doors, you won’t just see lovely clothes and accessories, but you’ll also see places to sit and chat, and friends who want to get to know you.”

Whether a customer is looking for a new look, or a gift for a friend, Baughman and the “Tulip girls” are ready to help with more than just a purchase.

“We are here to help with whatever you need…a dress for a special occasion, a gift for a friend, or just a sweet chat and a listening ear,” Baughman said.

She also uses the boutique to support local causes.

“In addition to partnering with a variety of local businesses in Lexington on collaborative events, I’m also grateful to take part as a sponsor,” Baughman said.

Those partnerships include working with the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization, and hosting “give back” events at the shop for other causes she is passionate about, such as the American Heart Association and the Lexington Health Foundation.

Summer in Lexington offers the best of the season

Summer in Lexington, S.C., is a season made for adventure, laughter and making memories. With long, sunny days, warm evenings, and plenty of opportunities to get outside, families have endless ways to stay active, explore, and enjoy all that the community has to offer.

Lexington is a place where every summer day can look a little different. Some days are for high-energy adventure, where kids can leap, climb, and challenge themselves in exciting ways. Other days invite a slower pace allowing for nature exploration, strolling along scenic paths, or discovering quiet spots to relax under the sun. From indoor spaces to outdoor escapes, there’s something for every interest, age and energy level.

The town is full of spots where families can try new activities, develop skills, or simply have fun together. Whether it’s enjoying the fresh air, testing balance and coordination, splashing and swimming, or just spending time laughing with friends and loved ones, Lexington provides the perfect backdrop for summer exploration. Every corner of the community offers the chance to make ordinary days feel extraordinary, whether that means discovering hidden gems, enjoying playful challenges, or sharing favorite experiences with family and friends.

Summer in Lexington is also about connection. It’s a season to step away from screens, enjoy the outdoors, and create moments that bring people closer together. With so many ways to play, learn and explore, the town invites everyone to make the most of the season — whether it’s a spontaneous outing, a planned adventure, or simply savoring a warm, sunny afternoon.

In this issue of BusinessView, we’ll guide you through a collection of experiences that showcase the best of summer in Lexington. From lively activities to quiet escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season, make memories, and share the fun with family and friends. So grab your sunscreen, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to discover what makes summer in Lexington truly unforgettable.

Lake Activities

When summer arrives in Lexington County, life naturally drifts toward the water. Just minutes from downtown Lexington, Lake Murray becomes the center of it all — a place where families gather, friends reconnect, and long, sunny afternoons turn into memorable evenings on the water.

For many locals, a typical summer day starts with launching a boat and seeing where the day leads. Cruising across the lake on a pontoon is one of the most popular ways to enjoy it — its equal parts relaxation and adventure. With dozens of coves, islands and open water to explore, every outing feels a little different than the last. Those without a boat of their own still have plenty of options. Local marinas such as SouthShore Marina and Lake Murray Boat Rentals make it easy to rent pontoons, kayaks, and paddleboards, so families can spend the day tubing, swimming, or simply drifting along the shoreline. Additionally, the Freedom Boat Club in Leesville offers a membership based program where you can enjoy maintenance-free access to premium boats.

Beyond boating, Lake Murray is a playground for water sports. Wakeboarding, tubing, and waterskiing are staples of summer weekends, while paddlers often slip into the quieter coves early in the morning when the water is glassy and calm. Even a slow paddle along the shoreline can reveal hidden pockets of the lake that feel miles away from everything.

Anglers also know Lake Murray well. The lake has built a reputation across the Southeast as a destination for striped bass and largemouth bass, drawing both casual weekend fishermen and seasoned competitors. Early mornings often bring a familiar scene with boats idling out before sunrise as anglers head toward their favorite fishing spots, hoping for the kind of catch that turns into a story later that evening.

Public Parks

One of the best ways to enjoy summer in Lexington is simply stepping outside. Across the community, public parks provide places where families can play, neighbors can gather, and visitors can enjoy a little fresh air.

A favorite starting point for many residents is Gibson Pond Park, which blends natural beauty with space to relax and explore. A shaded walking trail loops around the pond, where visitors often spot kayakers quietly paddling or anglers casting a line from the fishing dock. Picnic shelters, swings, and open green space make the park a popular spot for family gatherings.

Nearby, Virginia Hylton Park has long been a hub for family-friendly fun. Tucked behind the municipal complex, the park features a large playground, splash pad, and picnic shelters that make it especially popular during the summer. The Azalea Amphitheater (within the park) also serves as a community gathering space throughout the year, hosting events that bring residents together for music, celebrations, and local festivities.

Families with younger children often head to Corley Street Park, a neighborhood favorite that packs plenty of fun into a smaller space. The playground features slides, swings, climbing structures, and interactive musical elements.

Even Lexington’s four-legged residents have a park of their own. Lexington Paw Park offers three acres designed specifically for dogs and their owners to socialize and play.

For those who prefer a quieter pace, the Old Mill Pond Trail offers one of Lexington’s newest outdoor experiences. Opened to the public in 2024, the trail winds through a scenic area near the historic Old Mill. The surrounding property also features a mix of shops and restaurants.

Blowfish baseball

There’s something about summer and baseball that just goes hand in hand. The crack of the bat, the smell of ballpark snacks, and the simple joy of spending an evening outdoors with family and friends. It’s a tradition that feels right at home here in the Midlands. And in Lexington County, that experience comes to life thanks to the Lexington County Blowfish.

Celebrating their 21st season, the Blowfish have become more than just a baseball team, they’re a summertime staple in the community. As a member of the Coastal Plain League, the team features talented collegiate players from across the country, giving fans a chance to see high-level competition in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

A visit to Lexington County Baseball Stadium, known locally as “The Lex,” is about more than what happens on the field. The stadium offers an intimate, easygoing atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action, and every night feels like a community gathering.

Throughout the season, fans can enjoy themed nights, special promotions, and a variety of family-friendly events that turn a simple game into a full summer outing.

It’s this combination of baseball and entertainment that makes a Blowfish game such a perfect fit for summer. Kids can run around, families can relax and enjoy the atmosphere, and friends can gather for a night out that feels both nostalgic and new.

For those looking to expand their baseball outings even further, the Columbia Fireflies offer another nearby option just a short drive from Lexington. Together, these teams help make the Midlands a great place to enjoy America’s pastime all summer long.

Pine Island

Tucked along the shores of Lake Murray, Pine Island State Park is quickly becoming one of the Midlands’ most talked-about outdoor destinations, and one of its newest.

After years of anticipation, renovations and unexpected delays, the park quietly reopened in late 2025 with a limited “soft opening,” offering visitors their first look at a space that blends natural beauty with exciting future potential.

Set on a scenic stretch of lakefront property, Pine Island offers a different kind of Lake Murray experience; one that feels a little more tucked away and relaxed. With open green spaces, shaded picnic areas, and peaceful waterfront views, it’s the kind of place where a summer afternoon can unfold at your own pace.

The park provides plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can cast a line from the shore, stroll along paved walking paths, or watch for local wildlife, such as herons and even the occasional bald eagle. A small beach area and lakeside access add to the appeal, giving guests another way to connect with the water during the warmer months.

What makes Pine Island especially unique is that it’s still evolving. As South Carolina’s newest state park and the first located in Lexington County, it represents a long-term investment in outdoor recreation for the community. Future plans include expanded amenities and the transformation of an existing structure into Sunset Hall, a gathering space designed to showcase some of the most stunning views on Lake Murray.

For those looking to explore something a little off the beaten path this summer, Pine Island offers a refreshing change of pace, where Lexington’s natural beauty takes center stage.

Dominion Beaches

When summer rolls around in Lexington, heading to the water is a no-brainer and Lake Murray offers the perfect mix of sun, sand and lakeside fun.

At the heart of it all is Lake Murray Public Park, where families and friends gather for beach days, swimming and lakefront relaxation. With access on both the Lexington and Irmo sides of the lake, the park gives visitors plenty of options for a full day in the sun.

The main draw? The sandy beach area, perfect for spreading out a towel, soaking up the sunshine, and taking a refreshing dip in the lake. While the kids play in the shallow water or splash along the shore, adults can keep an eye on the water or simply relax under a shady spot. To enjoy the park, visitors will need to reserve a pass on Dominion’s website. Reservations are required to visit the public beaches in the Columbia and Lexington areas. The beach season traditionally runs through Labor Day, so be sure to purchase your pass and take advantage of the beach access before time runs out!

For those who like a little extra activity, the 1.7-mile pedestrian walkway across the Lake Murray Dam provides scenic views of the lake and downtown Columbia, making it a favorite for walkers, joggers and photographers. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly stunning, turning the lake into a canvas of color that’s not to be missed.

For those looking for a quieter or more adventurous beach experience, Bundrick Island (sometimes called Sandy Beach) offers a hidden gem for boaters. This peninsula boasts a 200-foot stretch of sand, ideal for anchoring, swimming or picnicking. While it’s only accessible by boat, the payoff is worth it. Peaceful shoreline, hiking trails and unobstructed lake views make it a favorite for small groups looking to escape the busier public beach areas.

Shareholder Spotlight: Sorinex Exercise Equipment

For more than four decades, Sorinex Exercise Equipment has built a reputation rooted in strength, both in the products they create and the community they serve.

What began in 1980 as a small operation in founder Richard Sorin’s carport in Irmo has grown into a globally recognized brand, now proudly headquartered in Lexington. While the company’s reach has expanded internationally, its commitment to local impact remains at the heart of everything they do.

Sorinex’s journey to Lexington was intentional. About a decade ago, as both the company and the town experienced steady growth, leadership saw an opportunity to plant deeper roots in a community that mirrored their values. Today, that decision continues to pay dividends, not just for the business, but for the Midlands region. The company prioritizes hiring locally and investing in its people, measuring success not only by business performance, but by the improved quality of life for its employees. From first homes to growing families, the company views these milestones as meaningful indicators of impact.

At its core, Sorinex operates under a simple, yet powerful, philosophy: “Be Legendary.”

While widely known as a leader in strength equipment, the company’s mission extends far beyond the physical. It defines strength holistically, encompassing mental, emotional, and even social well-being. Every interaction is designed to leave individuals better than before. This people-first mindset has helped it cultivate a loyal customer base that spans from local athletes to elite competitors on the global stage.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Sorinex identity. Its Lexington headquarters regularly opens its doors to local organizations, offering unique team-building experiences and educational opportunities. Signature events such as SummerStrong draw hundreds of visitors from across the country and around the world. This creates a significant economic impact for local hotels, restaurants and retailers. At the same time, initiatives such as Squatober demonstrate how the company leverages its platform for the broader good, funding projects such as weight room installations for underserved schools.

Beyond local efforts, Sorinex is deeply committed to meaningful causes nationwide. Its support of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation reflects a dedication to honoring service members and preserving an important part of American history. Through advocacy and outreach, the company has played a role in helping bring this long-awaited memorial to the National Mall in Washington D.C. by the end of this decade.

What truly sets Sorinex apart in a competitive marketplace is its unwavering authenticity. Unlike many large-scale manufacturers, it designs and produces much of its equipment in-house, with a team comprised largely of athletes and strength professionals. This direct connection to the end user ensures that every product is built with purpose and precision. Rather than chasing trends, the company focuses on innovation through insight by identifying gaps in the industry and developing solutions before they become mainstream. That forward-thinking approach is fueled by a culture of continuous learning. By engaging with top performers across industries, the organization is able to stay ahead of the curve while remaining grounded in its founding principles.

Looking ahead, the future for Sorinex is as strong as its foundation. With major collegiate projects underway and continued growth on the horizon, the company is well positioned to expand its influence while creating new opportunities locally. As it continues to innovate and invest in the Lexington community, one thing remains clear: Sorinex isn’t just building equipment, it's building a legacy.

For the Lexington Chamber, Sorinex exemplifies what it means to be a Platinum Elite Shareholder: a company that not only succeeds in business but elevates the community around it.

To learn more about Sorinex, visit www.sorinex.com.

Elite Shareholders

Get to know

F. Mark Stone, Vice President of Operations for JB Martin

W hat is your background?
I graduated with a BS in Textile Science from North Carolina State University and a MS in Textile Manufacturing Technology from the Institute of Textile Technology. I also received my MBA from Duke University. I was born and raised in North Carolina and met my wife Jocelyn in calculus class my freshman year. We will be celebrating our 34th wedding anniversary this December, and we have a son and two daughters. I spent almost two decades with Hanesbrands in various levels of leadership and then left to run my own small businesses, mainly in the trucking and other service industries. After more than a decade on my own, I wanted to get back to the textile industry and accepted the role of VP of Operations for JB Martin last April.

Describe JB Martin.
Jean Baptiste Martin founded his eponymous company in 1832 in Lyons, France. He revolutionized the industry by creating the double-shuttle loom that increased velvet production fivefold. After several awards at the World’s Fair, American investors brought JB Martin to the New York fashion market through a new factory in Connecticut at the turn of the 20th century. A facility was built in Leesville, S.C., in the mid-1950s and is still in operation today. Although JB Martin velvets have dressed the Queen of England and many celebrity fashion icons over the years, the primary focus today is the upholstery industry. JB Martin is a “Made in the USA” velvet manufacturer supporting numerous furniture makers across North and South Carolina, although we support international manufacturers as well. RH, Crate and Barrel, Arhaus and Pottery Barn are just a few of our customers that you may recognize.

What is a unique feature of your business?
Although we focus on the furniture market, as well as some apparel and even theatre curtains and seats, many would be surprised to know that two strips of velvet are found on every cylinder of Kodak film and on all their disposable cameras. The velvet protects the film by blocking incoming light while not damaging the film.

How did you get started in the velvet industry? How long have you been with JB Martin?
I started as the VP of Operations in April of 2025 after spending some time away from the textile industry. I am somewhat unique at JB Martin, as many production associates and even many members of the leadership team have been a part of the JB Martin family for more than 30 years. Several have family members from earlier generations that were part of the startup back in 1955 when JB Martin first came to Lexington County.

What does your business have over other manufacturers?
We provide a large selection of high-quality velvets, from performance polyester to luxury cottons and even mohair. Our lines have broad color selections that most of our competitors can’t match, and we are only a couple hours drive from most of our customers, as opposed to an ocean crossing plane ride.

What do you like most about working at JB Martin?
The people at JB Martin are second to none. We have a loyal workforce that is dedicated to providing a unique textile product that is made exclusively here in our SC facility.

How do you define business success?
Businesses are successful when they consistently satisfy their customers, and JB Martin will be celebrating 200 years of business success in 2032. That’s mind blowing when you realize that our county is just this year celebrating 250 years of our successful democracy.

What is a misconception about the velvet industry?
That it is a small industry for niche fashion apparel. Most would not think about upholstery, or theatre curtains and theatre seating, or home drapery, pillows, etc. A very small few would think about the light lock that protects every canister of Kodak film. The velvet industry is vibrant and continues to grow each year.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you started in the business?
Keep a journal. I have been so blessed in my personal life, as well as my business life, and have had so many wonderful experiences. It would have helped me in my decision making as I advanced in my career to better remember the steps I took along the way.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
All four of my grandparents were born in the 19th century. Although I lost most of them when I was still a baby, my maternal grandmother lived until I was a teenager. She was a young girl as our country changed from lamps to electric lights and was a teenager when the Titanic sank. She was a young woman when the first World War broke out and sent her sons to serve in the second World War. She was an amazing woman, and I would love to have the opportunity to speak with her again.

What have you always wanted to do but never have?
I would love to learn to fly a plane.

What is your favorite place to visit or vacation?
My wife and I love to travel and have upcoming trips planned to Kenya and Tanzania, and then an Arctic trip to the Hudson Bay to see polar bears and the northern lights. But if I had to pick one place to visit repeatedly, it would be a tough choice between Charleston, S.C., and Asheville, N.C.

Beverage of choice?
Although I might enjoy an adult beverage from time to time, I was born and raised in North Carolina so my favorite will always be the house wine of the South – Sweet Iced Tea.

Your favorite meal?
I’ve traveled extensively and food is quite often the focal point of my travels, especially with my wife. It is impossible to choose a favorite meal.

Why is the Lexington Chamber important for the community?
I believe that strong education is vital to any civilization and that goes beyond our schools. It is important to have libraries, museums, art galleries, etc. Our life is further enriched by our parks and other natural resources, and all our citizens should have access to all these resources, if we are to live a complete and full life. The only way to accomplish this is through a strong business community, and that is the role of the Chamber of Commerce. I believe it is the responsibility of leaders to always be looking for ways to serve their community. That is why JB Martin is actively involved in both the Batesburg-Leesville Chamber, but also the Lexington Chamber. I am also a member of the Rotary Club of Lexington and encourage the members of my team to find ways to serve their community as well.

Dining on the Dam 2026:
A Night to Remember

Dining on the Dam 2026 proved once again why it stands out as one of the Midlands’ most unforgettable events. Set atop the iconic Lake Murray Dam, the evening in late March brought together guests from across the region for a vibrant celebration of South Carolina’s culture, flavor and community. And it delivered on every level.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant hues, attendees enjoyed a truly immersive experience. From the moment guests arrived, they were treated to a dynamic showcase of what makes the Palmetto State so special. Delicious cuisine highlighted the rich flavors of South Carolina, while live entertainment from the Finesse Band kept the energy high and the dance floor full throughout the night.

Beyond the music and cuisine, this year’s event offered unique cultural experiences that elevated the evening even further. Guests had the opportunity to witness the timeless craft of sweetgrass basket weaving, a cherished Lowcountry tradition, as well as admire the distinctive work of Ernest Lee “The Chicken Man,” whose vibrant art celebrates Southern life in a truly memorable way. Adding to the excitement, the crowd was delighted by a surprise appearance from Cocky and The Cub — bringing a fun and spirited moment that perfectly captured the friendly rivalry and pride of South Carolina.

Of course, at the heart of it all was the unmistakable atmosphere. Friends, colleagues and community members gathered together in one of the most unique venues in the region, sharing laughter, conversation, and a collective appreciation for the place we call home. Dining on the Dam continues to be more than just an event; it’s a celebration of connection, culture and Carolina pride.

Check out the video recap and relive the most unforgettable night in the Midlands!

Golfers Tee Up for
a Swingin’ Good Time!

Save the date for the Chamber’s Annual Spring Golf Tournament in May.

The Lexington Chamber will host its 33rd annual Spring Golf Tournament on May 18, at the Country Club of Lexington.

As one of the most popular Chamber gatherings, this event offers two flights, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, attracting more than 220 golfers. Additionally, companies set up and exhibit on the tees and holes to promote their products and services. They offer games, refreshments, and fun specialty items for the golfers.

“The Chamber’s shareholders love golf in Lexington and we are delighted to offer two opportunities for them to compete and socialize, while making meaningful business connections,” said Angelle LaBorde, Chamber President & CEO. “We are extremely grateful to our 30-plus corporate sponsors who support this event annually.”

To sponsor a foursome for our Spring Golf Tournament, at the Country Club of Lexington, call (803) 359-6113.

Investing in Tomorrow

Student Leadership Conference returns

Building the next generation of leaders starts right here in Lexington County, and on April 23 that mission continued with the return of the Student Leadership Conference.

Hosted by the Rotary Club of Lexington, in partnership with the Lexington Chamber & Visitors Center, the conference attracted 90 students from Lexington County School District One and the American Leadership Academy.

Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the conference brought together students from across Lexington County for a day focused on leadership development, personal growth and career exploration.

A highlight of the day was keynote speaker Brooks Harper, whose message of “learning to earn” resonated strongly with students.

His engaging and relatable approach to leadership and communication set the tone for a day. Students were inspired to think about their future goals and their leadership potential.

They also participated in two interactive workshops, heard from a business/student panel, and interacted with Rotarians and business leaders in an afternoon networking exercise. Leadership expert Bency Beals closed out the day with an inspiring message.

“Through hands-on learning and meaningful engagement, this conference is making a difference in honing student’s skills,” said Angelle LaBorde, Chamber CEO.

“By investing in education and workforce opportunities such as this, the Chamber and its partners are helping equip students with the tools, confidence and connections they need to succeed, both in school and in their future careers,” she said.

Grow your business:

Informative programs, powerful networking

The Lexington Chamber continues to provide an engaging series of Morning Mix
and Business Over Breakfast events, continuing its mission to inform, connect, and
strengthen the local business community.

Morning Mix: Fueling connections through casual networking

The Lexington Chamber continues to drive its mission of strengthening the local economy by providing high-impact networking opportunities. Central to this effort is the Morning Mix, a monthly series designed to connect and empower the Lexington business community in a relaxed setting.

Coffee, conversation and community

Held on Friday mornings once a month, Morning Mix offers an informal environment for professionals to forge new relationships over coffee. Each event is hosted by a presenting sponsor, providing a unique platform for local businesses to showcase their services and company culture.

There is no charge to attend. For sponsors, it is an unparalleled opportunity to put your brand front and center, with your business featured prominently in all Chamber marketing materials and throughout the event.

Mark your calendar for these upcoming gatherings:

May 29: Misty Stathos State Farm Agency

June 26: Bilt Right Overhead Garage Doors

July 31: Lexington County Chronicle

Aug. 28: Mind’s I Creative, LLC

Sept. 25: The Gutterman

Oct. 30: Wonderly Lights

Nov. 20: Lake Murray Digital