The very best thing about the two South Carolina Primaries . . .

is that all the Commentators couldn't say enough good about the people of South Carolina and how warm and welcoming they had been.

Those of us who live and work here know that we are in one of the best kept secrets in the country. It always amuses me to work with out of towners - some of whom really thought they were having to move to the "boondocks" when they got transferred to SC. After spending a day or so here, they are delighted at the quality of life they are finding. May I tell you a little bit about "my little corner of the world"?

Columbia is the Capital City of South Carolina. As the largest city in the state, Columbia is at the heart of a four-county region, known as the Midlands of SC, projected to grow to more than 625,000 people by the year 2010. It's one of the hottest markets in the South, ranking third last year in the large market category for top 100 announcements, according to Southern Business & Development magazine.

Lexington and Columbia have easy access from the North and South, with three major interstate highways: I-26, I-20 and I-77 intersecting the city, and both I-85 and I-95 are just a short drive away. The mountains are two to three hours away, and so are the beaches. In addition, you have Charlotte, Atlanta, Savannah, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach all within two to three hours. We are right in the middle of everything.

We have outstanding cultural opportunities, with a symphony orchestra, several local theatres, a professional theatre, and several professional dance companies. In addition, we have access to all of the offerings at the University of South Carolina, Columbia College, Allen University, Benedict College and the Lutheran Seminary and Columbia International Bible Colllege.

State and local governments join together to support business through low taxes, available tax credits, and a commitment to help existing companies prosper and grow. With the state government, the University of South Carolina and Fort Jackson all providing a stable base for our economy, and a myriad of industries diversifying the employment opportunities, we have not had the economic "roller coaster ride" of some other areas.

If you want city life, with fine restaurants, great cultural events, diverse population and great shopping, Columbia can offer you all that and more. It has all of the benefits of a much larger city, without many of the negatives which normally accompany them. Traffic is not bad, thanks to a terrific road system. (We do have a rush half- hour!)

On the other hand, if you prefer a smaller town atmosphere, you have your choice of location and size, from Lexington to Batesburg-Leesville, West Columbia-Cayce and Chapin in the west, to Elgin in the Northeast or Swansea, Pelion and Gaston to the South, each with their own feel and flavor.

Or if you're ready to relax and enjoy life, Lake Murray offers the very best in laid-back lake living, yet is still convenient to shopping, medical care and activities in Columbia and the surrounding communities.

We have prepared a Map of Columbia which shows subdivision, schools and the main roads. We also have a similar map for the town of Lexington.

If you are considering a move to the Midlands of South Carolina, we'd love to have the opportunity to help you.