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ISSUE 14
JANUARY CONTENTS 10 Paying It Froward Special Olympics World Winter Games
12 Launch The Pharmacy
14 Under the Dome Business and the Trump Presidency | Willcox, Buyck, Williams, P.A.
16 Finances Signature Wealth Strategies | Chip Munn
18 Tax Prep New Year New Goals
20 Experience Hartsville Dancing with Stars Darlington Co
24 Health & Wellness Biggest Loser Competition
26 All Access Melva’s Adult Day Care
29 Cover Story Future Leaders
34 Advocating Healthcare Starting Smart in 2017 | HopeHealth
36 Around Town 40 Business Spotlight Pope’s Furniture | Ivy Pope
42 Career Development The Art of Networking
44 Time to Toast 46 Florence Community
48 Developing Downtown PDRTA Downtown Shuttle
50 Happenings 52 Innovate Ab-1 Exercise Wheel | Jauron Smith
54 Health & Wellness The Dreaded Triad | Edward O’Dell, M.D.
56 Positive Pursuit Unified Diversity | Brad Lewis
58 Paying It Forward Help 4 Kids
60 Employee Spotlight Sonya Foster | Wilson Senior Care
Support Local Education | Mike Miller
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com Office Manager Tiffany Skipper jtskipp35@gmail.com Advertising Executives Rion McAllister rion@vipmagsc.com Mary Kevin Miller marykevinmiller@gmail.com Creative Design Candy Smith Tuesday Taylor
Contributing Photographers Heather Byrd Bradley Lail C. Holst Photography Collin M. Smith Fred Salley Steve Roos Contributing Writers Mark W. Buyck, III Jay Lavrinc Brad Lewis Elizabeth K. Miles Mike Miller Ronald E. Miller, Jr. Chip Munn Dr. Edward O’Dell Robin Parker Dawn Rogers Tim Shorter Donna Tracy
COVER CONCEPT
As we step into 2017, we think of our future; it’s bright and full of growth. To the business world, there isn’t anything more important than those that will be replacing us after we complete our professional mission, that’s where the idea came to include our Future Leaders on the cover of the January issue. With recent growth in Downtown Florence, we thought it would be appropriate to take the photographs there. Collin Smith’s impeccable eye captured our idea perfectly.
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A LETTER FROM OUR TEAM
Resolving to Positive Changes Another year begins and with it brings an onslaught of resolutions. We resolve to improve everything from what we eat, to how we carry ourselves and even where we want to go professionally in the New Year. We start out with the best of intentions and we may even stick to our half hatched plans for a while. However, for most of us, come February or March, our resolve has failed and we’ve fallen right back into the same old routine and the same bad habits as before. As we fall farther and farther away from meeting our goals, the self loathing and regret descends upon us. Why is self transformation so hard? Dare we ask, are our expectations of micro-waved perfection too farfetched? When it comes to us, why is it so hard to really see permanent, positive change? We’ve all heard that the definition of insanity is simply repeating the same action, over and over again, and expecting different results. Being creatures of habits, with exceedingly high expectations, we demand results from ourselves without making any real changes; enforcing the validity of this definition. For example; we get a gym membership and some fancy new workout clothes. The expectation is that the cost of the membership and the purchase of new footwear will be enough to push us into the gym, thereby, resulting in successful attainment of our health and fitness goals. But where is the commitment? What about the real lifestyle changes and time sacrifices necessary to succeed. Sure, we make small concessions, but no true core changes to our habits that would be required to see real, earned, positive change. And yet, insanely, we are disappointed by the lack of results. This year, our challenge to each you and to ourselves, will be to strive to make those positive changes. Resolve to be better; resolve to be extraordinary; resolve to be great! Never stop dreaming and making plans to improve or to reach for more in life! However, we also challenge you to resolve to be honest and smart. Be honest with yourself about the sacrifices necessary to accomplish your goals. Be smart about deciding what habits you can logically change for the positive. By being smarter and more logical in our goal setting, we can avoid continuing in a pattern of desperate insanity and seek to make lasting, positive change. Happy New Year and wishes for a prosperous 2017!
-TEAM VIP Serving Florence, Hartsville, Darlington, Marion, Mullins, Lake City and the surrounding areas JANUARY 2017 | ISSUE 14 2011-B Second Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29501 FIND US ON FACEBOOK
For advertising rates, call 843-687-4236. We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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PAYING IT FORWARD
2017 Special Olympics
WORLD WINTER GAMES Three Pee Dee Athletes Train in Preparation for the 2017 World Winter Games in Austria. Something not many realize, the Pee Dee is home to three athletes preparing to compete in the 2017 World Winter Games in Austria. Jackie Hoch, 36, of Florence and Keith Frostick, 63, of Lake City will be competing in Alpine Skiing and Latrice Pringle, 31, of Florence will be competing in Snowboarding. This will be the first international competition for Jackie and Latrice. Keith competed in the 1997 World Winter Games in Canada. Most recently the athletes traveled to Vermont staying at the Killington Resort and visiting Castleton University, a longtime supporter of Special Olympics, to train for the upcoming competition. Special Olympics USA is comprised of 150 athletes, 40 coaches and approximately 20 delegation members who support team operations, for a total delegation of 210. The delegation also includes Special Olympics Unified Sports teams, where people with and without intellectual disabilities compete together, as teammates. Team members will compete in seven sports: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, figure skating, floor hockey, snowboarding, snowshoeing and speed skating.
Every two years, the world transcends the boundaries of geography, nationality, political philosophy, gender, age, culture and religion to come together for the Special Olympics World Games. Alternating between summer and winter Games, this event is the flagship event of the Special Olympics movement, which promotes equality, tolerance and acceptance around the world. This prominent world stage brings attention to the Special Olympics movement and helps create positive, sometimes lifesaving policy change for people with intellectual disabilities in countries around the world. Nearly 5 million Special Olympics athletes train and compete in 170 nations across the globe. Nearly 3,000 athletes and 1,100 coaches from 110 nations will compete at the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria, March 18-24, 2017. Competition and special event venues will be in Graz, Schladming and Ramsau.
To volunteer or become a coach in the area, email Area1@so-sc.org. For more information on how you can help support the 24,848 athletes in SC, visit so-sc.org. To learn more about Special Olympics USA and to follow the March games, visit specialolympicsusa.org, Facebook: specialolympicsusa | Twitter: @specialolyUSA Instagram: @specialolympicsusa Hash Tag: #Cheer4USA
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Snowboarding LATRICE PRINGLE, 31 years old, Florence Pringle has been involved with Special Olympics for nine years. She is a well-rounded athlete, competing in basketball, softball, volleyball, and track. “Special Olympics has given me so many opportunities to share my passion for sports,” she says. Pringle is honored to have been chosen to compete in the 2017 games and she can’t wait to represent her country, state, and hometown. “I can’t wait for the ‘epic’ adventure!”
Alpine Skiing
Alpine Skiing
JACKIE HOCH,
KEITH FROSTICK,
36 years old, Florence
63 years old, Lake City
Hoch has learned much in her 28 years of commitment to Special Olympics. She has developed her skills for being part of a team and having good sportsmanship. Hoch appreciates the opportunity Special Olympics has given her to travel, meet new people, and make new friends. “I am proud and excited to represent Team USA. This is such a great opportunity,” she says. Hoch got involved with the games after a bowling tournament in high school and in 1996, she was named Special Olympics Female Athlete of the Year.
Frostick has been an athlete all of his life; besides skiing, he’s ran track and swam competitively. Since becoming a part of Special Olympics USA, he has gained confidence and feels like he can do some things better than even nonmentally challenged people. Frostick enjoys meeting other athletes across the world and looks forward to bringing home the Gold! He says, “I like getting a chance to show the world how good I am.”
photos by Fred Salley Photography
If you’d like to help support these local Special Olympics athletes, a donation page has been set up to help cover travel costs: www.firstgiving.com/so-sc/world-games January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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LAUNCH
Helping Patients Help Themselves: The Pharmacy opens in Florence on Hoffmeyer Road
Jameika Williams, CPhT, Dr. Jarrod B. Tippins, Dr. Kelly W. Jones and Cindy Rollins, CPhT
story by Tammy Clark What began as an ordinary South Carolina Pharmacy Association meeting, ended with a bright new future for two South Carolina pharmacists. Conversations between Dr. Jarrod B. Tippins and Dr. Kelly W. Jones at that meeting planted seeds of an amazing partnership, which has now blossomed into an extraordinary new pharmacy in Florence. Kelly recalls the conversation fondly. “Jarrod asked me, ‘After thirty years of practice, what, if you could, would you change about your career?’ And, I told Jarrod my desire to open an independent pharmacy.” Little did Kelly know, Jarrod shared the very same dream. With Jarrod’s business and entrepreneurial acumen and Kelly’s experience, this shared vision grew from dream to reality in less than two years. Both natives of South Carolina, Jarrod graduated from the University of South Carolina with his doctor of pharmacy in 2009 and Kelly graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1988. Upon graduation, Jarrod began working as a pharmacist at CVS Pharmacy in Darlington and most recently at The Medicine Cabinet in Lake City. In both settings, Jarrod focused on building relationships with his patients and executing efficient quality of care. Just last year, Jarrod was named Distinguished Young Pharmacist of the Year by the South Carolina Pharmacy Association. His drive and leadership is not only seen in his community, but throughout our county and state as well. While Jarrod has focused on community pharmacy, Kelly has been primarily in the world of academia. Kelly recently transitioned from his previous position with McLeod Family Medicine Residency Program of nearly 28 years. 12
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Kelly continues to serve as a pharmacology professor at Francis Marion University for the Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant programs. Although Jarrod and Kelly’s backgrounds may be different, both focused on one main goal—the patient, the importance of preventative care, as well as treatment, and ultimately improving quality of life. You may wonder why The Pharmacy was chosen as the name of the business? Jarrod states the name emphasizes simplicity, “In a time where people’s lives are so busy and oh so complicated, our community needs to be reminded of simple things.” With so many choices, Jarrod and Kelly want The Pharmacy to be the one, simple choice. The place patients can feel at home and know their needs are met, their own pharmacy home.
People have a misconception that “independent pharmacies are more
expensive than large chain drugstores. However, pricing is comparable or even less expensive at The Pharmacy. We hope that patients will give us the opportunity to serve them and find that our convenient location, drive-thru, and friendly service are worth making the switch. -Dr. Jarrod B. Tippins
”
photo by Fred Salley Photography
The Pharmacy’s location was extremely important to Jarrod and Kelly, as they wanted to reach as many lives as possible. The busy intersection of Hoffmeyer and Beltline seemed perfect. Although The Pharmacy’s building structure is here, the outreach spans far more than just this corner. Kelly explains, “Our main focus is helping patients help themselves.” As 2017 approaches, The Pharmacy will be offering additional services. Stop by their location to learn more about those options. “We want to touch as many lives as possible to improve the overall health and wellbeing of the citizens of the Florence area,” says Jarrod. The Pharmacy seeks to enhance the quality of life for the people of this community. Where some companies may view you as merely a number, The Pharmacy focuses on the health and wellbeing of each individual, offering a personalized approach to healthcare. Whether you are in need of an immunization or a medication consultation review, The Pharmacy is the place! The Pharmacy will begin offering educational classes for patients interested in learning more about diabetes, hypertension and heart failure in 2017. If you have a question, or are just curious about the new kids on the corner, please stop and say hello!
want people “toWe come in the store
and feel the presence of the Florence community; it is the people’s store. -Dr. Kelly W. Jones
”
THE PHARMACY 2500 Hoffmeyer Road | Florence 843.773.2821 | thepharmacyrx.com
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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UNDER THE DOME
BUSINESS AND THE TRUMP PRESIDENCY story by Mark W. Buyck, III
On January 20, 2017, Donald Trump will become the forty-fifth President of the United States. Mr. Trump will become only the fifth President in the United States’ history to have never been elected to public office prior to becoming President. He will be the first President to have never held any previous political or military career prior to being elected to office. He will however, be the third of the last five Presidents to have significant business experience prior to becoming President (George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush). There will be a lot written and much speculation about what a Trump administration will attempt to accomplish. It is obvious from his Cabinet appointments that he seeks guidance from both military leaders and successful businessmen and businesswomen. He has pledged to repeal Obama Care, cut taxes, eliminate burdensome regulation, make significant expenditures on infrastructure, and strengthen the military. He has also vowed to create and keep more jobs in the United States.
Anyone who foretells what legislation will be proposed, debated, passed, and eventually signed by the President is only reading tea leaves. The Presidency is only one of three branches of our government and Mr. Trump will no doubt experience what his predecessors before have: Congress is a co-equal branch of government and expects to be treated as such. While the Democrats may be in a minority in both the House and Senate, they will engage in whatever tactic is available to them to shape, delay, or obstruct legislation. While there may be uncertainty as to exactly what policies and legislation may emerge from the Trump administration, the early reviews from the business community are generally positive. The stock market is in record territory and consumer confidence is rising. The prospect of lowering the corporate tax rate from 35% to 15%, along with reduction in individual income tax rates, could result in significant growth opportunities for business and the economy.
Mark W. Buyck, III
Concentrating in Banking, Business, Civil and Business Litigation and Appeals, Contracts, Employment, Government, Real Estate
To date, neither Mr. Trump nor the Republican controlled Congress has passed any legislation; however, the business community anticipates significant changes in their relationship with government and regulators. Keeping abreast of the impact of newly created laws and regulations as well as the repeal and replacement of others can be daunting for business of any size. As lawyers and counselors, we pay particular attention to legislative and regulatory activities that impact our clients. You have a useful partner in the Willcox Law Firm as you navigate these upcoming changes and structure your business for the years ahead.
Serving Businesses and Individuals from Florence to Myrtle Beach: the Business Law, Litigation, Real Estate, and Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys of Willcox, Buyck & Williams, P.A. 248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.536.8050 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 | Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.461.3020
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January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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FINANCES
I Pity The Fool WHO DOESN’T PLAN story by Chip Munn According to a Forbes article I read recently, more Americans make New Year’s Resolutions each year than watch the Super Bowl. I don’t know the actual number, but that’s a lot… and I’m certain that many of them are related to finances! Unfortunately, over half these people have given up on their resolution by July 4th. If you’re one of these people, I’d suggest this year you try what I’ll call the A-Team approach. One of my favorite TV shows growing up featured “a crack commando unit [who was] sent to prison by a military court for a crime they didn’t commit.” Upon escaping prison, wanted by the government, they survi-ved as soldiers of fortune. The “A-Team,” led by strategic mastermind, “Hannibal” Smith, specialized in solving seemingly impossible problems. If you watched the show, you know that Smith always had an elaborate plan to accomplish the team’s mission. Ultimately, the success of the team was a direct result of the planning and preparation invested on the front end. As I think back on each episode, there are five parts of the plan that led to a successful outcome. These same steps, when applied to your financial resolutions this year, can lead to the accomplishment of your goals. 1. Define your goals. Just as the A-Team had to know what their mission was, you must also be clear about what you are trying to accomplish with your planning, whether it involves preparing to fund college for a child or grandchild, your
retirement or the minimization of estate and income taxes. 2. Have someone hold you accountable. After you’ve done the remaining steps, it will be important to make sure that you follow through. Working with a Financial Advisor and other professionals can help you with all of these steps. Each of the A-Team members had a job to do and they were accountable to one another to do their part. It makes sense to involve your personal financial team, each of whom has a specific set of skills, in reaching your goal. 3. Create specific action steps. Literally, what are you going to DO? You may want to complete new election forms for your retirement plan withdrawal or set up an automatic draft from your checking account to your savings account. The action steps should be directly correlated to the accomplishment of your goal, and ideally, you should automate as many steps as possible. If any of the parts of Hannibal’s plan for a mission went undone, the team was unsuccessful. 4. Execute. No matter how good the plan was, it didn’t matter if the team didn’t get out of their black and red van (which was awesome, by the way). 5. Revise, monitor and adjust. Often times, not everything went according to plan for the A-Team. When a wrinkle developed, Hannibal had to alter the plan to maintain the team’s chances of success. A plan is only current at the moment that it is
complete. While you shouldn’t have to completely rewrite your plan, there may be course corrections that are necessary along the way. At the end of each show, the A-Team would get together (usually on the way to their next mission) and talk about the mission and celebrate their success. My hope is that routinely, from now until your ultimate goals are reached, you’ll be able to review your progress and celebrate the successful implantation of your plan. Whether or not you choose to smoke a large cigar like Hannibal did, I imagine all of us would take great pleasure in smiling as we say, “I love it when a plan comes together.”
CHIP MUNN
Chief Executive Officer, SWS Senior Wealth Advisor, RJ 135 South Dargan Street | Suite 200 Florence, SC | 843.519.1100 chip@signaturewealthstrategies.com www.signaturewealthstrategies.com Facebook.com/signaturewealthstrategies Linkedin.com/company/signature-wealth-strategies Twitter.com/asignaturelife
Opinions expressed are those of chip Munn and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Chip Munn, Chief Executive Officer, SWS/Senior Wealth Advisor, RJFS. Signature Wealth Strategies is an independent firm. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. 135 South Dargan Street, Suite 200, Florence, SC, (843) 519-1100.
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January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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TAX PREP
NEW YEAR
TAX GOALS 2017 Taxing Resolutions story by Elizabeth K. Mills, EA Making a list and checking it twice…..oops – that was last month. “I never did get my tax stuff organized in 2016 and now it’s 2017.” I hear this all the time. As we all know, you cannot go backward, only forward so let’s start the New Year out with the resolution to be prepared for the 2017 tax year.
There are so many things you can do to make taxes less stressful to you that are simple; you just have to commit to doing them. Know your tax bracket and set your withholdings accordingly. There are easy to understand charts online you can follow when filling out your new W-4 for 2017. My goal is for my clients to be at a flat line – meaning they do not owe much nor do they get big refunds. Some of you just screamed, “But my refund is like a savings account and I need it.” No it is not a savings account. It is you over withholding and allowing the IRS to have use of YOUR money all year, gaining no interest. Set up a savings account and have the over withholding money directed into a real savings account that you can control and gain a little bit of interest on. Call your tax preparer before you sell property or stock or decide to make a withdrawal from an Investment account. Not doing that is like not calling before you dig and leaving the neighborhood in the dark. Do not be blinded by potential money in these situations only to be in the dark about their ramifications on your return. Your tax preparer is there to answer questions, strategize the best way to approach your particular situation and have you cover any potential tax liabilities before year end so you are not penalized. If you wait until the return is in progress it is too late. The fat lady has sung and we might make you cry when we tell you there is a huge tax liability associated with a situation we could have helped with had we known BEFORE it happened.
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Free tax programs are great…..for a very simple return. Yes, they prompt you and ask you questions but it is a program not a person that knows you or your tax situation. They do not talk back and if they could I’m pretty sure they do not have the education and experience to properly advise. You are not just completing a tax return – you are establishing a tax history so that if/when things change you are covered by someone who knows you and your goals. Out with the old and in with the new! If you do something new and exciting during the year like get married, have a baby, adopt a child, buy or sell a home, change jobs, etc., make copies of the related documentation and add it to your tax file – you know, the one you are going to start after you finish this article. You will need them for your taxes so do it while it’s fresh in your head. Believe you me, if you get married and forget to tell your tax preparer, we will laugh at you behind closed doors and you are going to owe your sparkling new spouse a big apology gift (yes, this has really happened). Repeat after me, “I will make this whole tax thing easy for 2017 now that I know it does not have to be hard.”
Elizabeth “Betsy” K. Mills owns Campbell Accounting Solutions, LLC. Call (843) 662-9700 or email taxinfo@campbellgroupsc.com for your tax solutions.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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EXPERIENCE HARTSVILLE
The Darlington County Chapter of the Pee Dee Coalition against Domestic and Sexual Assault annually presents Dancing with the Stars of Darlington County, a black-tie optional gala fundraising event. This year’s event will be held Thursday, January 26, 2017 at 7:30pm at the Center Theater in Hartsville, SC. It will feature an “All Aboard” theme with dances, decorations and items reminiscent an old train station. An entertaining group of celebrity and professional dancers have been selected from the community to prepare an energetic dance routine for the big event. The Pee Dee Coalition against Domestic and Sexual Assault is a non-profit, volunteer based organization serving eight counties in the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina. Sadly, South Carolina ranks #1 in the United States for deadly violence against women. The Pee Dee Coalition hopes you will join them in this fundraising effort. For more information, call 843-206-8718 or email DarlingtonCountyDWTS@gmail.com.
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photos by Steve Roos Photography
Ashley Shelley and Shantella H!ris
Autumne Stu!t and Jeff"y Tadlock
Ashley Shelley is a resident of Florence. He is married to Marshall and they have two children. Ashley has worked with the Florence Police Department as a Criminal Investigator since 2009. Shantella Harris is a lifelong resident of Florence where she lives with her husband Herbert and their children: Miya (9), Sean (5), and Robyn (4). She is the owner and Creative Director of Driven by Dance Studio in Quinby.
Autumne Stuart is a driven Georgia Tech Chemical Engineer currently employed with Sonoco Products as an R& D Engineer with a decade of progressive experience. She is the Vice Chair for the Hartsville Boys and Girls Club and a certified Zumba instructor. Jeffery Tadlock is a Coker College graduate involved with the college’s Alumni Board. He is a sixth grade Social Studies teacher at Hartsville Middle School and is the Director of Programs for Wesley United Methodist Church in Hartsville.
Ben G!e and Jennif" He#ingway
Ben Gore is a Hartsville native, married to Jada Williams Gore for 44 years. He retired from Sonoco Products after being employed for 41 years. He currently serves as President and General Manager of Prestwood Country Club. Jennifer Hemingway is a graduate of Francis Marion University and is currently employed by Sonoco Products. She is also a former dancer at Bobbie Rick’s School of Dance.
Blade Boulw$e and Natalie Elsess"
Blade Boulware is a native of Columbia, SC. He is a Piano major at Coker College and the organist for First Baptist Church in Hartsville. Currently, Blade is a member of the Coker College Spirit Squad and involved in many musical productions at Coker. Natalie Elsesser is a 15 year old freshman IB student at Hartsville High School. Natalie is a member of the Elite Jazz, Tap, and Contemporary dance teams at Brenda Cranford School of Dance.
Anthоy Matthews and M$ia Jоes
Anthony Matthews is an Online Entrepreneur at Anthony and Company and an active member of the SC Alzheimer’s Association. He is also an aspiring Nurse at McLeod Regional Medical Center. Maria Jones grew up in Decatur, Alabama and attended the University of Alabama before entering the USAF where she met and married her husband of 28 years, Bryan. They have a son Eli (Kaitlyn) and daughter Emily.
Cal Wheel" and Brandi Wheel"
Cal Wheeler attended Presbyterian College and practiced Real Estate in Hartsville for 16 years. He is now the owner of Vintage Craft Beer and Wine Bar and aspires to one day have the dance moves of Patrick Swayze. Brandi Wheeler is a Hartsville native and owner of Brandi’s on College since 2001 after taking over operations from her grandmother who started the business in 1955. During college, Brandi danced with the Robert Ivy Company in Charleston, SC.
B& Brown and Frida James
Bob Brown is President and CEO of Integrated Systems, Inc. He along with several other Hartsville residents, helped transform downtown Hartsville with the Mantissa, an Executive Boutique Hotel, Day Spa, and Steakhouse. Frida James is a Coker College graduate with a BA in Dance. She is a former college intern with Brenda Cranford School of Dance and teacher at Arthur Murray Dance Studio. Frida is an active member of Females in Action (FIA).
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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EXPERIENCE HARTSVILLE • DANCING WITH THE STARS DARLINGTON COUNTY
Ch!les Govan and Tracee Auman
Charles Govan is a member of Darlington County School Board and is on the SC School Board’s Board of Directors. He is also on the SC School Board’s Insurance Trust Board of Directors. Tracee Auman is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a degree in Advertising and a minor in Dance. She is a former competitive dancer with Brenda Cranford School of Dance and a former member of USC Dance Company. She is employed as the Technology Facilitator at Hartsville High School.
Franklin Jeff"ds and Shelbey Gray
Franklin Jeffords is a class of ’89 Hartsville High School graduate and Lander University alumnus. He served honorably after college as a Sergeant in the United States Army. He and his wife, Michelle, have two boys, Deuce (8) and Dair (6). Franklin is employed by Nucor Steel. Shelbey Gray is a freshman at Coker College. She has been dancing at Brenda Cranford School of Dance since she was two years old and currently works part-time for the company.
Houstо Penny and Ashley Reames
J. Houston Penny III is originally from Maryland but has made Hartsville his home for the last six years. He is co-owner of the LighterSide located in Hartsville and is the Manager of Duke Energy Fleet Reactor Services. Ashley Reames recently graduated with her Master’s Degree in SpeechLanguage Pathology and is currently employed by The Therapy Place. She grew up dancing at her mother’s dancing school, Tip Tap Toe in Hartsville, SC.
Hunt$ J"dan and Stacy Uptagrafft
Hunter Jordan was born and raised in Florence; he is a graduate of Clemson University and is currently the Pastor at St. Matthew’s Church in Darlington, SC. Hunter is married to Walker and they have three children. Stacy Uptagrafft is a teacher in Florence School District 3. She has danced since she was two and competed in Latin/Ballroom dance across the country including Miami and New York. She and her husband, Jeff, have a 10-month-old daughter, Anna.
Jeff Calabrese and Ali Nelsо
Jeff Calabrese has lived in Hartsville for 22 years and is the head football coach of the Hartsville High School Red Foxes. He is married to Hartsville native, Jennifer Darkins Calabrese, and they have two daughters, Lainey (15) and Lily (11). Ali Nelson is a Coker College graduate from Pittsburg, PA. She has danced all over the USA and performed with a professional company based in France. She is the head cheer and dance coach at Coker college and is a dance teacher for Brenda Cranford School of Dance.
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Jeff Burr and T!a McC"mick Jeff Burr is a Hartsville High School graduate and holds an Associate Degree in Fire Science. He has served the community for 31 years through his work with the fire department and has been the Fire Chief since 2010. Tara McCormick graduated from Coker college with a BA in Music with a concentration in Musical Theatre and a minor in Dance. She was the lead singer/dancer with Stiletto Entertainment where she has traveled around the world.
Wanda Hassl# and Greg G$de Wanda Hassler is a Trustee on the Darlington County School Board representing District 7. She is also a former Captain in the USAF. She and her husband of 28 years, Terry, have lived in Hartsville since 1993 where he has a medical practice. Greg Goode is married to Sherri and they have two children, Madison and Jared. He has been in the paper industry for 28 years and has worked for Sonoco Products for 18 years. He is an avid NASCAR fan.
To cast your vote for your favorite couple, visit www.DarlingtonCountyDancingWithTheStars.com! Thank you to the following sponsors: Ashcraft Studios-Steve Roos, Better Homes & Gardens Segars Realty, Carolina Bank & Trust, Curry & Debbie Dawkins, Hartsville Family Dentistry, West Oil, North Industrial Machine, Fastrack Stores, Inc., First Citizens Bank & Trust, Indigo Salon and Day Spa, Kiwanis Club of Hartsville, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Schock, Raceway Ford and Chevrolet, St. Luke United Methodist Church, Mrs. Elizabeth Blakeney, Sweeney, Wingate & Barrow, Mr. Ed Haenni, Coker College, Burry Bookstore, Darlington Area Citadel Club
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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HEALTH AND FITNESS
What do you have to LOSE? story by Robin Parker & Tim Shorter It’s that time of year again… 2017 is upon us and fitness and weight loss always seems to be at the forefront of everyone’s minds. You want to find a program you can stick with but which one. With so much information available it can be difficult to find one that works for you. Well, at the Fitness Forum we have the solution! It’s our Swamp Fox Training Biggest Loser Program.
photos by Brad Jordan of Kinetic Media
Jim Holder, Overall Winner
Our most recent Swamp Fox Training Biggest Loser program ended November 20, 2016. Our four teams with 44 participants showed some incredible results. With 137 total inches lost, our teams worked hard and it paid off. Our overall winner was 69 year old, Jim Holder. When Jim started the program, he had knee and back issues that limited what he could do in the gym. Jim’s coach, Tim Shorter, worked with him to strengthen his knees and his back and to improve his overall fitness so he could join our Swamp Fox Training Bootcamps. He couldn’t do one sit up! But, by the time he finished the 12 week program, he could do 60! When the program was finished, Jim had lost 30 pounds, 15 inches and over 7% body fat! Even more importantly, he improved overall mobility in his knees and back. The best part for Jim is that he has now established exercise as part of his daily routine. He also understands the importance of eating better and being consistent in both exercise and diet. This is the new Jim and he loves it! Jim wasn’t the only success story. We had many other success stories including Lisa Raison, Jessica Helms, Mike Miller, Reuben Hewitt, Michelle Sturkie, Carolyn McElveen, Mike Jones, Gloria Lewis and others who made amazing changes throughout the 12 week program. They stuck to it and it paid off! They were all winners!
Please call the Fitness Forum at 843-661-3800 with questions about the Biggest Loser Program. Fitness Forum is located at 120 E. Elm Streetyour Florence downtown gym.
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Swamp Fox Training Biggest Loser is a program where we guarantee results! This program combines exercise and nutrition education that is customized for you. All participants are divided into teams and each team is coached by a personal trainer. Your coach will provide each individual with a custom exercise and nutrition plan. As your coach monitors your progress over the course of this 12 week program, adjustments are made along the way to ensure maximum results. We want to provide you with the tools to be successful and create healthy, lifelong eating and exercise habits without the drudgery that can often come with diet and exercise. Let’s face it, if it’s not fun and you don’t see changes, you won’t stick to it. That’s where good coaches come in. Just think…If you knew someone was waiting on you to come to the gym, monitoring your attendance, weighing you in every other week and measuring your body composition, you would show up. Our coaches want to work on your goals and find what works for you. They provide encouragement and positivity throughout the process. If you don’t show up, your coach will want to know why and keep you accountable. Our coaches know that their success is your success. If you have concerns with a joint issue, your coach can help modify your workouts to prevent injuries. Whatever the hurdle, we can help you get past it. So, if something has been holding you back from starting a fitness program, try the Swamp Fox Training Biggest Loser program at the Fitness Forum. Our coaches will work with you and modify all workouts to fit your needs. If you have been wanting to get in shape but just haven’t taken that first step, now’s your chance. It doesn’t matter what your current fitness level is, we can help you reach your goals. Our next Biggest Loser program will begin in January. We kick off with an informational meeting on January 9th & 10th at 6pm at the Fitness Forum. On January 23rd, the program will officially begin. Don’t miss out on this program! We have some great prizes in store for the overall winner and all team winners. Take a chance and make a commitment to yourself. January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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ALL ACCESS
Photo by C. Holst Photography
Melva’s Adult Day Care Melva Myers
Celebrating 30 Years of Enriching Lives story by Heather Page It’s a constant struggle we face, determining who should care for our loved ones while we run errands, go to work, or take a second to unwind from our hectic lives. We research extensively to find the perfect person or facility to care for our children, family or friends with disabilities, and elderly parents. Amongst the crowd of caretakers, particular providers stand out because of the empathy and compassion they display. Demonstrating those characteristics, Melva Myers with Melva’s Adult Day Care, Inc. captured the hearts of guests and has provided the welcome relief of quality care-giving for the past 30 years. Melva began her business as an in-home childcare service provider in 1988. After teaching 4K at Carolina Academy in Lake City, SC for two years, her passion for childcare and education led her to becoming an entrepreneur. Parents and children in the community adored Melva, quickly growing her business into more than her home could contain. By 1991 she expanded her care by renting a home on what became Melva Road. It wasn’t long before she again exceeded capacity. In 1997 a 3000 square foot building was completed to home Melva’s Adult and Children’s Day Care, Inc. For several years, Melva operated at full capacity with 10 adults and 44 children. As time progressed, childcare attendance began to decline. With a heavy heart, Melva was forced to close the childcare operation of the business. However, as one door closed, another one forcefully swung open. Melva’s desire to care for the folks in her community was the passion she needed to advance the adult daycare services. Last month, Melva’s Adult Day Care, Inc. was approved to expand their care from 10 adults to 34. 26
VIP Magazine | January 2017
With great appreciation, Melva begins 2017 with new capabilities that will allow her to continue providing professional and compassionate services for adults. The services are designed to provide social and limited health assistance to adults who need safe, supervised care outside the home. Melva’s Adult Day Care also provides transportation, meals, snacks, personal care, as well as, social and therapeutic activities. Melva’s business model has always been simple, to provide the kind of love and care she was shown as a child and to which she raised her children. Love and compassion builds relationships, that’s what Melva’s Adult Day Care Services is all about. Melva refers to her guests as “neighbors,” so that they feel the facility is truly their home away from home. “The smile on my neighbor’s face and the joy in their soul is why my doors are still open,” says Melva. Like most successful business owners, Melva attributes all of her accomplishments to Jesus Christ; without his mercy she knows none of this would have been possible. She is also grateful for the support from her husband and best friend, Mason, who has served as her contractor, manager, assistant, and novice shrink throughout the years. Melva doesn’t measure her success by the number of neighbors she’s enrolled, “it’s measured by the number of lives I have enriched.”
Melva’s Adult Day Care, Inc is located at 817 West Main Street in Lake City. Melva can be reached at (843) 374-2198 or by email, myersmelv@ymail.com.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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VIP Magazine | January 2017
COVER STORY
PHOTOS BY COLLIN M. SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
Future Lead!s OF THE PEE DEE
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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COVER STORY
Any good organization, worth it’s salt, understands the importance of developing today, the leadership of tomorrow. Taking the time to mentor, impart knowledge and groom the next up-and-coming generation is vital to maintaining a successful and progressive business. So it is with society. We cultivate our children, our future leaders, to grow and thrive from our experiences. We pass on what worldly wisdom we have acquired over decades of wins and losses. We push them to aspire to greatness; hoping for them that they reach heights and cross boundaries that we merely dreamed of. Not only is it an act of conservation, but it is by passing along this knowledge we preserve important qualities and skills of previous generations. Now, more than ever, we see the importance of this type of contribution. It is the responsibility of each of us, to take part in this timeless tradition of ushering in those that come after us. Every single craft, trade and industry has something that they desperately need to pass on to ensure the preservation of quality and future success. We have to use the time that we have now to “train-up” for society’s sake. Lack of preparation on our parts will only ensure that the next generation operates
at a deficit. They will suffer due to our lack of investment in them. If not passed on, the wisdom and knowledge that took years for us to acquire will be lost forever. So we have to ask, are we adequately preparing the next group of future leaders? Are they up to the tasks of running a sustainable and healthy society? Can we look around and see that we have done our part in equipping these young minds with the tools and skills they will need in the near future? It is also up to us to identify young talent within our communities. The earlier we begin the process of seeking out these young people, the more time we will have to teach. Leadership is a skill required in multiple facets of life and in every discipline. This month we will be taking the time to highlight some of our area’s future leaders. Each of these students come from a different background, school and walk of life. They are unique in their aspirations and personal qualities. There is, however, a common thread that binds them together. These young people are our future. They hold the keys to prosperity and ensured longevity of civilization. As we embark upon another year, we salute these few, the next generation and renew our commitment to teach and invest in all future leaders.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not dep!t fr" in it. -Pro#r$ 22:6 30
VIP Magazine | January 2017
MARIAH GODBOLD
KWAMANE SPEIGHTS
Like her family before her, Mariah Godbold bleeds orange and purple! She is currently attending the Bridge Program at Clemson University and is working towards a Biology degree. Mariah knew when it was time to look at colleges, that no school could hold a candle to her beloved Clemson! Having a Grandfather that graduated from Clemson, Mariah grew up going to games and cheering for her Tigers! In continuing this family tradition of attending Clemson, Mariah hopes to make her Grandpa and the rest of her family proud of her educational endeavors.
Kwamane Speights is an attendee of Coker College where he is pursuing a Bachelors in Elementary Education. He accredits his career path to a wonderful pastor, grandmother and, first and foremost, his Lord and Savior. Kwamane is an active Specialist in the National Guard Army and Boys Bounce Ministry. However, his heart belongs to the Betty’s Hands Foundation that he founded in memory of his late grandmother, Betty Bartell. He describes her as a selfless woman who always placed the needs of others before her own. Today, Kwamane looks to emulate those qualities and honor her memory by continuing to do her good work through the foundation. The four year old foundation is based out of Florence and it’s purpose is to provide for the less fortunate through organized toy drives, school supply drives, and meal provisions during the holiday season.
Clemsо Uni"rsity
Her future goals include following in her father’s footsteps and entering the medical field. She aspires to eventually become an accomplished Nurse Anesthetist. Mariah accredits her father, a nurse in the Emergency Room at Mcleod, for influencing her career path. She was privileged to have had the opportunity to shadow him during her senior year. Being able to watch her father work first-hand and seeing the knowledge and skill required for him to be good at his job, Mariah found nursing to be a natural and inspired career choice. “That opportunity helped me to solidify my desire to be in the medical field,” Mariah says. In her free time Mariah enjoys attending FCA meetings and babysitting for friends and family as much as she can. When asked to describe herself in one word, Mariah enthusiastically responds, “Bubbly! I think this word describes me best because I love to meet new people. This characteristic has really helped me to meet a lot of new awesome people at Clemson!”
Cok# College
This remarkable future leader has big plans. Kwamane believes that you have to be the change that you want to see within the world. He has dreams of opening up an academy whose focus is to educate and inspire urban youth. In addition to expanding the Betty’s Hands Foundation, he also intends to; experience the world first hand through traveling; develop his budding writing career; and become a world famous inspirational speaker. He also plans on doing all of this while raising his own family of world changers! When asked to describe himself in one word, Kwamane says “Fired-Up! I would say that because, fire burns and fire can lead you like a lit candle in a dark room. That is something that I want to be to everyone that I come in contact with. A beacon of light and motivated everyday!”
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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COVER STORY • FUTURE LEADERS
FREDDRICKA PRESSLEY
JACK HENRY BEASLEY
Freddricka Pressley chose to attend Francis Marion University because of the low student/faculty ratio and the family oriented environment that small class size brings. Drawing inspiration from her parents, church members, and previous job experience, Freddricka is working towards a Bachelor of Science degree in Middle Level Education with concentrations in English and Social Studies. After graduation, she has plans of teaching in the Pee Dee area while beginning work on a Master of Education degree in Educational Administration. This ambitious young leader also looks to obtain a degree in Funeral Service Education to be a Funeral Home Director and open up chains of Funeral Homes along the Southeast. She also has plans for a future Doctor of Philosophy degree in Educational Administration.
When Jack Henry Beasley chose to attend the Citadel, there was no question as to who influenced this decision. His grandfather, Richard Lewis Beasley, was a 1951 graduate of The Citadel and a former member of The Citadel baseball team. All his life, Richard Beasley dreamed of seeing one of his own heirs proudly choose to attend and graduate from the Citadel. Jack Henry aspired to fulfill that wish and be the first Beasley to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. Sadly, Richard Beasley passed away before seeing his dream of watching a Beasley walk across that stage, but Jack Henry is certain that when graduation day arrives, his grandfather will be looking down with a smile. Jack Henry says, “There’s no doubt that he’s my main motivation when common hardships tumble my way at The Citadel”.
In addition to working to achieve her future education and business goals, Freddricka is involved in numerous extra-curricular activities such as: President of the FMU Student Government Association, the Student Alumni Association, a Patriot Mentor, a Freshman Focus Mentor, FMU Diplomat, FMU Ambassador, Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society, Phi Alpha Theta History Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Delta National Leadership Society, and the Creek Bridge High School Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG-SC) Program. In her spare time she works as a Student Assistant in the Office of Orientation and Enrollment Management and Sales Associate at the Patriot Bookstore.
Along with his grandfather’s influence, Jack Henry’s desire to be challenged led him to applying at The Citadel. Attending the Citadel has allowed him to realize a lifelong dream of playing baseball at a college level while working to obtain a degree in Business. Upon graduating, this young leader plans to continue his studies at a graduate school focusing on business or law. “I want to see myself fresh out of grad-school with the world at my fingertips,” he says. His determination is sure to lead him to success in all aspects of life and to be a role model for others.
Francis M!iо Uni#rsity
When asked the word that describes her best, Freddricka says, “I am Industrious because I commit wholeheartedly to all that I do and I make sure I see it fully through.” 32
VIP Magazine | January 2017
THE CITADEL
When asked the word that describes him best, Jack Henry responds, “Determined. No matter what hardships I face, I will never lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel.”
KISHAN PATEL
BRITTANY TISDALE
Uni!rsity " South C#olina
Fl$ence-D#lingtо Technical College
Kishan Patel is attending the University of South Carolina working towards his BSBA in Finance, while minoring in Computer Science. In addition to his academics, Kishan has also worked in student hall government and with the school’s mock hedge fund. He devotes much of his time to his position as finance chair for USC’s Moneythink chapter where he also teaches two classes on financial literacy to high school students. Recently, he was afforded the opportunity of an internship at Armstrong Wealth Management, LPL Financial. Kishan ultimately chose USC because it’s close to family, as well as, the resources and networking opportunities provided by The Darla Moore School of Business.
Brittany Tisdale is a current student in the Nursing program at Florence-Darlington Technical College. She chose FDTC for its reputation for being a “hands on” learning environment. Another advantage for Brittany was that it was close to home and this has allowed her to rely on the support of friends and family as she works her way through the intense nursing program at FDTC. Brittany will be pinned and receive an Associates in Applied Science in August 2017 after which she will proceed to take her state board exam. In the meantime, she will continue to keep her nose in the books as well as pick up some shifts at The Peddler Steakhouse in her spare time.
Kishan’s decision to pursue a career in the finance division was based on his own interests as most of his family has established careers in the medical field. Fueled by his love for the science of investment, he hopes to make many great contributions to the world by way of his chosen profession. Kishan has drawn leadership inspiration from his supportive parents as well as from the example Mr. Armstrong set for him during his summer internship. His short-term plans include securing an investment banking opportunity out of college and working towards an MBA. If we look further into the future, this extraordinary young person believes we will see him managing a hedge fund and building enough personal wealth that he is able to make sizable contributions to causes such as the Arthritis Foundation and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. When asked how he describes himself, he replied “Different. I always had different interests. I think it’s important that everyone thinks outside-the-box in their own way. That’s usually how progress is made.”
Having a heart for patient care runs in the family! When asked why nursing was for her, Brittany says that her big sister, a Registered Nurse, has played a large part in her decision to become a nurse. After watching her sister derive satisfaction from her rewarding career for the past four years, it is no wonder that Brittany aspires to follow in her footsteps. “My goal is to always deliver the best patient care while keeping a smile on my face just like she does,” Brittany says. After graduation, she plans to focus on preparing for the state boards exam required to become an Registered Nurse and will then look to begin her exciting new career. Brittany’s future plans include marriage, children and working towards her Bachelor’s degree. When asked to describe herself in one word, this young leader says “Genuine. I feel like I am an all-around kind hearted person.”
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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ADVOCATING HEALTHCARE
Starting SMART in 2017 by Donna Tracy
Setting achievable goals for a healthier lifestyle. From career aspirations and fitness objectives, to home organization and addressing health issues, no matter what you want to accomplish in 2017, setting appropriate and attainable goals can help you get there – especially when it comes to establishing a healthier lifestyle. The first step to set such goals is to recognize where you already are, what you want to achieve, and to focus on just a few goals. Setting too many or unrealistic expectations potentially creates an environment that sets you up for failure. Instead, use S.M.A.R.T. as a guide and make your goals specific, measurable, actionable, realistic, and time-bound. These S.M.A.R.T. goal-setting techniques are used in many organizations and programs, such as in the Diabetes Prevention Program at HopeHealth, to outline individuals’ objectives. Specific If you don’t have a specific destination, no amount of planning will get you to your goal. It would be like using a road map to get to Grandma’s and only knowing she lives
somewhere in Ohio. By clearly defining what you want to achieve you not only give yourself a stronger chance of getting there, but also provide yourself a way to know you have arrived. Don’t say, “I want to be healthier in 2017,” or, “I want to lose weight,” Instead, define what being healthier means to you and make your goals specific. Measurable Measurable goals make being accountable to yourself easier. Start by writing down the necessary steps that it will take to meet your goals. As you meet these steps, you mentally prove to yourself that you are on the path to attaining your goals and it will help you continue on your journey. If you want to be healthier, how can you measure it? Do you want to add another servings of vegetables to your diet each day? Increase the number of miles you walk or run each week? If you want to lose weight, how much weight? In what time-frame? Actionable Define what you will do to achieve your goal. What is your plan for losing those extra
pounds; will you adjust your diet, exercise more, both? Spell it out in detail. This will give you a plan to work from that helps keep you focused. Realistic Setting a goal to run a marathon in six months when you have never put a rubber sole to a sidewalk is unrealistic. Recognize what you can do, what your limitations are, and what you can achieve with some effort. Setting goals too low undermines your efforts; you know when you are lying to yourself about what you can do. Setting goals too high also undermines your efforts; each time you fail to achieve your goal, it can make it that much easier to give up altogether. Time-bound Set deadlines for your goals. Deadlines are the mile markers along your journey. They help you recognize your progress and incentivize you to keep going knowing your destination is getting closer and closer. Being S.M.A.R.T. about your goals will make your decision to make 2017 a healthier year more possible. Examples of S.M.A.R.T. healthier lifestyle goals could include: • I want to lose 20 pounds by Aug. 1, 2017, by adding a twomile daily walk to my schedule and swapping a non-starchy vegetable for my usual mashed potatoes and gravy. • I will reverse my climbing blood glucose levels by halving my added sugar intake each week
until eliminated and checking back in with my doctor every three months beginning March 1, 2017. • I want to increase my fitness levels by getting seven-eight hours of sleep each night and working out for 30 minutes three to four times each week. • I will take care of my health in 2017 by scheduling appointments for each of my doctors recommending health screenings, including vision and dental, by March 1, 2017, keeping those appointments, and following up with any subsequent recommendations. Once you have defined your goals, reach out for help and resources available to assist you. Find an accountability partner who can help you and can encourage, motivate, and lift you up in times when it gets hard. Know that it will be a process, and that a healthier lifestyle will not happen instantly. Often times we are looking for quick fixes to issues that have manifested over time. It is important to motivate yourself and not be discouraged by setbacks. This not only applies to health related issues such as heart disease, diabetes, CHF, COPD, alcohol/ substance abuse, cancer, but also to anything that you may be struggling and dealing with. Be smart about setting your goals. Make them personal and start small with short-term goals. Then, as you start to see desired results, redefine and adjust to achieve long-term goals that once seemed unattainable.
Plan Ahead
Planning a week of meals and snacks can help you meet your nutrition and dietary goals.
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Make a Plan. Make a list of healthy foods. Select a variety of easy-to-make meals that are light and tasty.
Include Snacks. Having nutritious snack options at hand can help stave off workplace temptations.
Treat Yourself. It’s ok to indulge periodically, just be sensible with your portions & avoid trigger foods. Photo by Bradley Lail
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Sweet Dreams Every Night The New Broyhill’s Cashmera Sleigh Bed is elegant, blending a feminine look and a casual feel. The headboard and footboard are upholstered, and the wood is stained in a rich truffle finish. Relax in refined, romantic privacy. INTERIOR DECORATOR ON SITE | 90 DAYS SAME AS CASH IN-STORE FINANCING | LAYAWAY AVAILABLE
315 E. Main St, Dillon, SC | 843.774.8255 Family Owned & Operated since 1950 | Mon-Fri 9am-5pm | Sat. 9am-1pm
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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AROUND TOWN
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“The Shucking Good Time” event was given in appreciation to the builders, designers, and architects for their business. Ferguson Enterprises is over 50 years old and is one of the largest sellers of plumbing, lighting, and appliances in the country. 1 Brandon Stokes, Elizabeth Hesley & James Cotton 2 Marvin Tisdale, Craig McCoy & Linda Hesley 3 Heather Page, Pat Miller Baker & Julie Tyler 4 Kevin Crowe, Kim Whitlatch & Doug Miller 5 George & Connie Rigsby 6 Linda Hesley, Mac McDougal & Susan Boling 7 Raymond & Marty Church & Hughes Page 8 Elizabeth Hesley & Linda Hesley 9 Ted & Brenda Urquhart 10 Susan Boling & Wendy Johnson 11 Joey McMillian & Renee Woodberry
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Florence County Progress 4th Quarter Holiday Networking Event 7
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1 Mark Butler and Bruce Clark 2 Shannon H. McGillivray & Jill Lewis 3 John Brand, Janet Brand, Todd Laliberte & Buddy Brand 4 Annette Ross & Melissa Banks 5 Pedro Fonseca & Jodi Fraser 6 Kendall Chapman & Lauren Stanton 7 Kathy & Joe Craig 8 Rocky Pearce & Kim Gardner 9 James Sheehy & Nick Gaddy 10 Tom & Rona Ewart 11 Doris Lockhart & Mary Kelley 12 Anna Johnston & Rebecca Wilkins
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19th Annual
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Central United Methodist Church | Florence
1 Joyce Ford 2 Donna Morris and Cheyenne George 3 Volunteers serving “Walking Tacos” 4 Tia Hodge-Antrum and Katrina Smith 5 Mary Ann Ham, Mary Mitchell, Rhonda Altman 6 Shelby Humphries 7 Sabrena Dixon and Laura Mitchell 8 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Florence Alumnae Chapter) 9 Dr. Brian Hanna and his children Maria, Caleb & Luke 10 Beth Humphries and Deena Hilton 11 Reggie Scott (19th AIDSWalk) 12 Dr. Brian Hutcheson 13 South Florence High School Navy JROTC Color Guard 14 SC State Rep. Terry Alexander, District 59 (Invocation) 15 Larry Chewning, HopeHealth Medical Case Manager (Our Story) 16 HIV/AIDS Activist Maria Davis (Keynote Speaker) 17 Anica Bennett and Jackie Smith 18 April Evans 19 Savannah and Deana McHugh 20 Tia Hodge-Antrum 21 South Florence High School Navy JROTC Color Guard 22 Rhonda Altman 23 Walking through Downtown Florence 24 Walking through Downtown Florence 25 Mary Mitchell 26 Scottie Rivera 27 HopeHealth CEO Carl Humphries (Greeting walkers at finish line)
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Ivy Pope
315 E Main Street | Dillon | (843) 774-8255
Taking Over the Family Business story by Rion McAllister Pope’s Furniture has become a household name in the quaint little town of Dillon. Opening it’s doors in 1950, Turk and Louise Pope began a legacy. Though the store has seen many changes over the years, it has mastered the skill of remaining fresh and relevant in this ever changing business climate. Pope’s revitalized their business model and revamped their showroom to offer fresh new product lines to compliment the same superior service and quality to all who darken their doors have come to expect. In the 1970’s, Turk and Louise’s two sons, Robert (Bob) and William (Bill) inherited the store and began to oversee operations. A buyout of Bill’s shares in the 1980’s made Bob the sole owner and proprietor of Pope’s Furniture. Ivy Pope, Bob’s daughter, had the privilege of growing up at Pope’s. Having developed an interest in business, Ivy graduated from Converse College in Spartanburg with a major in Business Administration. After receiving her diploma, she took a week off and immediately went to work with her father at Pope’s Furniture. Ivy didn’t have long term plans to run 40
VIP Magazine | January 2017
the business. However, having an affinity for the store, she knew she didn’t want to see it sold. So, Ivy took over managing the company in 2001. She now has the privilege of working with an amazing team that has 25 years of combined experience between them. Staffers Donna, Annette, Tammy, Pat, Gregg and Ronte take ownership at Pope’s and work together functioning like a family unit. Pope’s Furniture has grown over the years to offer everything for the home from name brand appliances, such as Whirlpool and Maytag, to top furniture lines like Lazy Boy, Broyhill Craftsmaster, and many others. They also offer a stunning selection of accessories to include picture frames, mirrors, lamps as well as TV’s and fireplaces that have blue tooth capabilities. Their generous delivery policy includes a radius of 60 miles. This allows them to deliver to Myrtle Beach, Florence and anywhere in-between. In addition to free delivery, they also offer set up and removal services complimentary! The amazing selection of products, array of services and the ability to offer inhouse financing has allowed them
to develop relationships with three generations of customers. In 2016, Ivy and her team went to work to transform the store giving it a refreshing new look. While maintaining a vast selection of classical and traditional items, Pope’s has expanded their product lines to include name brands such as Rachel Ray, Legacy and Paula Dean by Craftsmaster. They now also offer interior decorating services, gift certificates, a bridal registry, and six beautifully appointed show room windows. Also, you won’t find any pressed board furniture here! Staying true to their mission of providing superior quality, Pope’s only offers genuine hardwood furniture. Pope’s Furniture has definitely grown and changed over the years but a few important things have remained the same. They have always and continue to strive for quality and excellence in every aspect of their business. They are infinitely grateful for their wonderful customers. Finally, they know at the center of it all, the Pope family has run their business by putting their faith and trust in God and in His provision for Pope’s Furniture.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT
the art of NETWORKING Building Relationships to Help Advance in Your Career story by Ronald E. Miller, Jr., Career Development Director at Francis Marion University
Networking is the art of relationship building. We have different levels of relationships; e.g., acquaintances, casual friends, close friends, family, but networking can encompass a host of them. Networking as relationship building is also a process—a process of exchanging information, developing trust, and, ultimately, lending mutual support. Unfortunately, networking can also have negative connotations. Some people associate the act with using people simply to obtain a favor or a job. While it is possible that it is the ultimate goal, to receive benefits from networking, this mentality is not negative in and of itself. The most effective networking approach is to look for opportunities to help others which can be considered counterintuitive. In other words,
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rather than asking for favors, we can offer to help people whom we think can help us. For example, when meeting an employer who might interview you for a job opportunity, consider assisting with a project for free. Ask what challenges the employer might have and then offer a sampling of your work. Similarly, if someone extends a courtesy, do not merely accept the favor and run with it. Instead, ask how you might help that individual in the future with a project or even an apparently simple task such as an introduction to a mutual friend. In this sense, networking becomes a two-way street and is mutually beneficial. Another misconception about networking is that one has to know so-called “big wigs” or “higher up’s” for networking to be effective. However, doing so is often neither possible nor necessary, in most cases. Additionally, it proves especially challenging for college students and new professionals. A better approach is to start with where you are. Cultivate relationships with classmates, colleagues, supervisors, and fellow citizens. Take time to get to know them beyond a surface level. Even if you do not have much in common socially speaking, you never know when
that next job might come from a tip you heard about from your next door neighbor’s second cousin once removed. That example might seem hyperbolic, but most people get jobs from networking with so called “weak-ties.” “Weak-ties” are people who are not typically your best friends but those acquaintances you meet through your existing relationships or encountered while attending networking events. Volunteering for a non-profit is yet another way to foster networking because volunteer work can introduce us to people in an industry. In addition, directors of nonprofits often connect loyal volunteers to employers who are benefactors of philanthropies. These employers, in turn, might then extend job offers to volunteers via the relationship with a philanthropy. If seeking employment, research a company through its website, LinkedIn profile, and any social media outlets such as Twitter, Facebook, and Snapchat. Learn who works for the organization and, if possible, see if you have mutual connections via social media profiles. We are often connected to more people than we realize. Job seekers could then ask mutual friends how they know an
employee and ask the friends to arrange a meeting. In addition to social media, Young Professionals receptions or events through the Chamber of Commerce can be effective venues for networking. Sometimes, opportunities come from unexpected places such as a sports event or a casual function. You might be networking even when it is not intended. It is important to be prepared and always listening for opportunities. Listening is perhaps the single best way to network at an event. Granted, you need to provide information and convey what you seek, but asking questions of the other person demonstrates genuine interest and humility, as opposed to egotistical favor-seeking. Before the event concludes, follow-up with people whom you meet via email, text, social media, phone call, or an in-person meeting. For networking to be effective, relationships have to grow and develop. Networking, done correctly, is a process that often requires more than a single encounter and a time commitment so that the exchange of information and support is possible.
Dr. Ronald E. Miller, Jr., Director of Career Development, Center for Academic Success and Advisement (CASA), Francis Marion University January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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Local Salute
TIME TO TOAST
Dashiell Stevanovich, Neil Dey, and Eric Zhang
FMU Holds 40th Math Tournament Sponsored and presented by the FMU Department of Mathematics, the tournament’s 40th iteration took place on Tuesday, Dec. 6 in the McNair Science Facility. Twenty-one schools and approximately 360 students from throughout the Pee Dee competed in this year’s tournament. The winners of the high school division competitions were: Division I - Marion High School, runner up - Carvers Bay High School; Division II - Scholars Academy, runner up - Wilson High School; Division III - Trinity-Byrnes Collegiate School, runner up - The King’s Academy. The winners of the written portion were as follows: First place - Eric Zhang, Scholars Academy; Second place - Neil Dey, Wilson High School; Third place - Dashiell Stevanovich, Scholars Academy; honorable mention - Brad Farrell, Scholars Academy; Etash Kumar Guha, Wilson High School; Henry Hein, Scholars Academy; Noah Johnson, Scholars Academy; Grant King, Scholars Academy; Ruijia Li, Wilson High School; Alex Tew, Scholars Academy; Jason Zhang, Scholars Academy and Zachary Zhao, Wilson High School.
World Tour Time for FMU’s Piano Master Professor Paolo Gualdi will visit four continents, travel 30,000 miles during an ‘insane’ holiday concert and teaching tour. Hitting the road for a concert is nothing new for FMU Professor of Music Dr. Paolo Gualdi. The award-winning pianist regularly piles up the miles, both in the United States and Europe, playing recitals and teaching master classes. But Gualdi’s schedule during the upcoming Winter Break is extreme, even for him. During a 25-day stretch from Dec. 21 to Jan. 14, Gualdi will cover more than 30,000 miles while performing six concert recitals and conducting two master classes. Gualdi will perform in Rome and Perugia, Italy; in Shanghai; in Miami and in Montevideo and Punta del Este, Uruguay. While he’s at it, he’ll also make time to stop in Italy see his mom for Christmas.
Francis Marion’s Peterson Receives NCNW State Education Award Francis Marion university’s Dr. LeRoy “Pete” Peterson, Jr., was recently honored by the South Carolina Mechanism of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) as the state winner in the area of education. Peterson was presented with the award, in recognition of his lifetime contributions to education and the impact he has made throughout the community, at the organization’s 42nd Annual Bethune-Height Program in Florence. A native of Florence, Peterson earned a bachelor’s degree at FMU in 1984 and received his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of South Carolina where he was an undergraduate laboratory-teaching assistant. He joined the FMU faculty in 1990. “The award is a great honor and I am really touched,” says Peterson. “It will forever inspire me to continue to help fulfill the mission of this great organization.” An active researcher, Peterson has received grants from the National Science Foundation, the S.C. EPSCoR/Brin Collaborative Research Program, and the S.C. Commission on Higher Education. He is the author or co-author of many publications and presentations. He received the FMU Faculty Service Award for 2001-2002. Peterson is a member of the American Chemical Society, the Pee Dee Math and Science Hub, the Science South project and the S.C. Academy of Science. He is president of North Vista PTA, serves on the board of Florence Boys and Girls Club and coaches in youth basketball leagues. He is faculty advisor for Omega Psi Phi and Kappa Alpha Psi fraternities and Zeta Phi Beta sorority and is active in the university’s African-American Faculty and Staff Coalition. He also is a member of the FMU Institutional Effectiveness Committee.
In the Spotlight Local Professional Announces the Opening of New State Farm Agency Mandy Simpson is a Florence native and is opening a State Farm agency in Florence, January 2, 2017. Her office is located in the Huntington Plaza on Second Loop near Rebel Pie and provides the full range of insurance products including auto, homeowners, life, and health, along with bank products such as auto loans and mortgages. Mandy graduated from South Florence High School in 2000 and then graduated Summa Cum Laude from Francis Marion University in 2002 with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration and in 2004 with a Master’s in Business Administration. Prior to her career as a State Farm agent, Mandy was a Financial Services Representative for Richard Skipper’s State Farm Agency for 2 years, a Financial Representative for Woodmen Life for 3 years, and a Business Banker at First Reliance Bank for 8 years. Mandy is happily married to Henry Simpson and the proud mom of K.C. (9) and Kaden (7) Todd and step-mom to Will Simpson (12).
Carolinas Hospital System host Project Jingle Project Jingle not only brightened the lobby of Carolinas Hospital System with Christmas spirit, but the annual fundraiser also served as a reminder of the need to work together. Ten area nonprofit groups will benefit from the proceeds of the two-day silent auction on December 7th and 8th that had 39 wreaths and four centerpieces on display at the hospital. Volunteers, businesses and folks from the nonprofits donated the wreaths and decorations, and once all the money is tallied up, it will be split evenly. Benefiting from the effort will be The Naomi Project, the American Red Cross, The Greater Florence Habitat for Humanity, Lighthouse Ministries, Florence Area Literacy Council, Empowered to Heal, House of Hope of the Pee Dee, Mercy Medicine Free Clinic, The Care House of the Pee Dee and SNAC (Shelter and Nutrition for All Children).
FTDC Nurses Achieve 100% Pass Rate on National Certification Florence-Darlington Technical College’s (FDTC’s) Practical Nursing Program Class of August 2016 has achieved 100% pass rate on the National Council licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN)! That means all of FDTC’s Practical Nursing candidates won certification the first time they took the test. Dr. Suresh Tiwari, FDTC’s Vice President of Academic Affairs is very proud of the program “The PN program has enjoyed strong outcomes under the leadership of Nursing Faculty Naomi Woods with pass rates from 88%-94% in the last three years.” Dr. Tiwari continued, “However, the 100% pass milestone is a visible indicator of how well the FDTC program prepares our practical nursing graduates. It has been 20+ years since we achieved a perfect score and we hope it is a sign of continued excellence!” FDTC also operates a successful Associate Degree of Nursing Program, which educates Registered Nurse candidates. FDTC administers a Certified Nursing Assistant program through a federally funded program called BOOST, which stands for Better Occupational Outcomes Using Simulation Technologies. All of FDTC nursing programs can be found in its Health Sciences Campus in downtown Florence.
Donny Gerald Auto Sales Raises Money for Hurricane Matthew Victims Thanks to the generous and giving spirit of Donnie Gerald and Larry Barnhill of Donny Gerald Auto Sales, $32,440 was raised on behalf of the American Red Cross. The monies raised will be used to provide direct disaster services in Marion County. The money will directly impact those affected during Hurricane Matthew. Tickets were raffled off for $10 each with 100% of the proceeds donated. Nearly 200 locals gathered as the total amount raised was revealed, along with the winner, Joyce Fling of Marion.
Anderson Brothers Bank Expands into Dillon Co. Anderson Brothers Bank signifies their continued growth by opening a branch at 100 East Main Street in Latta, and it features an ATM, Night Drop, and on-site loan officer. The branch will employ four full-time employees and will be managed by Glenn Greene III, Loan Officer. “This new branch represents a significant step toward our continued growth in the Pee Dee area,” said Johnny Floyd, Regional Executive for Anderson Brothers Bank. “The residents of this area have been very receptive to our personal approach and the friendly atmosphere that we offer. The support that we’ve received from the community has been overwhelming. We look forward to building long term relationships with Latta citizens.”
FLORENCE COMMUNITY
Supporting Local Education Efforts story by Mike Miller, President of Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce With all that is happening in the Pee Dee Region, it’s understandable why those of us involved in commerce and economic development are excited. With the growth in retailing and hospitality, along with expansion in manufacturing and continued investments in community revitalization, there is a reason for all of us to be thrilled. However, there are other reasons to bet on the future of the Pee Dee. Let’s talk education. What we see today is a commitment from all corners toward efforts to enhance and grow our already strong higher education intuitions. Our leaders at Francis Marion University, Florence Darlington Technical College, Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology, Coker College, and others, have taken bold steps over the last few years to expand curriculum and programs helping to allow education needs to stay local. This focus on improving local education is also being born-out at the high school and elementary school levels. We have seen many changes with leadership in our local school districts and the new energy created by supportive organizations like the School Foundation and others.
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Why is this so vital to our local Economy? Understand that we are all responsible for the quality of the next generation of local service providers. Our future insurance agent, auto tech or medical assistant are just a few years away from needing the background and training to be functional in a highly competitive business environment. In these surroundings, you and I are continually raising the bar in consumer expectation. Why would we not give our future employees and employers the best locally prepared individuals we can deliver? So, the enthusiasm over continued regional growth is exciting, and well deserved. However, the focus on our educational priorities will take us much further. This should be something we all can stand behind and appreciate. Our approaching economic growth, and commerce expansion depends on what we do now in supporting local education efforts. Mike Miller is the President of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at 843-665-0515 or by email, mmiller@flochamber.com.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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DEVELOPING DOWNTOWN
CONVENIENTLY GETTING DOWNTOWN Downtown Shuttle Service for Business Professionals Richard Trappier and Downtown Shuttle Driver, Timothy Criss
The new PDRTA shuttle is proving to be a powerful asset in moving Florence’s ‘movers and shakers’ in and around downtown. Arriving every 15 minutes during prime weekday hours (Monday-Friday, 11am–3pm) and consisting of numerous pick-up/drop-off locations, the downtown PDRTA is creating a bit of a buzz amongst the locals. With a reputation for dependability and ease of use, it is no doubt that it will quickly become the leading choice for fast and convenient transportation in our ever expanding downtown. For whatever the reason, a business meeting, a working lunch, or making that quick run to the City-County Complex or Post Office, the PDRTA shuttle is making a true ‘quick trip’ downtown a possibility. Richard Trappier, Real Estate Professional with Coldwell Banker, is just one of those utilizing the shuttle and all of it’s advantages. Without ever having to move his car, the shuttle allows him to move in and around the heart of Florence in a quick and convenient manner.
story by Shannon Stewart
Richard uses the shuttle one or two times per week to grab lunch or run to a meeting. The free shuttle saves him money, time, and the frustration of trying to park. It also allows him the opportunity to network while catching a ride; a benefit you don’t get by walking or driving yourself. When he travels via the shuttle he can always count on new folks to connect with and a few regular daily shuttle travelers as well. Richard believes that interest and utilization of the shuttle will continue to increase simultaneously with the revitalization of downtown. As more people discover this little secret, they will come to appreciate the friendly drivers, safe and clean environment, and the well coordinated stops. They will agree with Richard that the PDRTA’s Downtown shuttle is the prime choice for fast and convenient travel downtown. As more of the downtown project is brought to completion, the PDRTA’s shuttle will grow in value to the community and become an even greater asset for those who frequent the area.
Learn more about PDRTA services by visiting their website, www.pdrta.org.
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January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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HAPPENINGS
JANUARY 2017 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS FLORENCE 1........... .......................................................................................................................................... Public Ice Skating | Civic Center 2 .................................................................................................................................................... Public Ice Skating | Civic Center 3 .................................................................................................................................................... Welcoming Club Meeting 7p 11 ................................................................................................................................................... SC Agribiz & Farm Expo | Civic Center 9a-5p 12 .................................................................................................................................................. SC Agribiz & Farm Expo | Civic Center 9a-4p 14 .................................................................................................................................................. Gun and Knife Show | Civic Center 9a-5p Florence Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Banquet | Civic Center 5p 15 .................................................................................................................................................. Gun and Knife Show | Civic Center 10a-4p 16 .................................................................................................................................................. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breathe Meeting | Palmetto St Chruch of God 6p 19 .................................................................................................................................................. Taste of Florence | Civic Center 5p 26 ................................................................................................................................................. Cooks for Christ | West Florence Fire Dept Carolinas Healthy Woman Event | SiMT 6p WEEKLY EVENTS Wednesdays............................................................................................................................ Wine Down Wednesday | Dolce Vita 7:30p Thursdays ................................................................................................................................. Trivia Night | Southern Hops 7p Saturdays .................................................................................................................................. City Center Farmers Market | Downtown 9a
LAKE CITY 14 .................................................................................................................................................. Flower Pot Gnome Homes | Moore Farms Botanical Garden 10a-12p 19 .................................................................................................................................................. Get Prepared: Winter Garden | MFBG 9:30a – 12p 24 ................................................................................................................................................. Enviromental Workshop | MFBG 9a-4p 27 ................................................................................................................................................. Urban Horticulture Workshop | MFBG 9:30a-4p 28 ................................................................................................................................................. Bringing Bromeliads Indoor | MFBG 9:30a-12p
HARTSVILLE 24 ................................................................................................................................................. Chamber After Hours | Hospice Care of SC 5:30p-7p 26 ................................................................................................................................................. Dancing with the Stars Darlington Co | Center Theater 7:30p
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FEATURED EVENT
January 20-28 Florence Little Theatre
417 S Dargan Street, Florence, SC florencelittletheatre.org/shows
Based on a touching true story affectionately told through letters written between Patsy and her biggest fan turned confidant, Louise Segar. This genuine bond of friendship lasted until Cline’s untimely death in 1963. Featuring 27 classic songs, including Crazy, Walkin’ Aft er Midnight, I Fall to Pieces, Sweet Dreams, Back In Baby’s Arms and more.
SHOWTIMES Friday, Jan 20th, 7:30p
Wednesday, Jan 25th, 7:30p
Saturday, Jan 21st, 7:30p
Thursday, Jan 26th, 7:30p
Sunday, Jan 22nd, 3:00p
Friday, Jan 27th, 7:30p
Tuesday, Jan 24th, 7:30p
Saturday, Jan 28th, 7:30p
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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INNOVATE
EXERCISE INNOVATIONS Jauron Smith Creates the Ab-1 Exercise Wheel story by Rion McAllister photos by HEATHER BYRD
It’s that time of year again for some of us to begin to look at our health and fitness goals. However, Inventor of the Ab-1 Exercise Wheel and Trainer, Jauron Smith doesn’t wait on the New Year to show he is committed to fitness! It has been his lifelong commitment to physical fitness that has allowed him to travel this road to product development. Having lived all over the country in places like Los Angeles and Newburgh, NY, Jauron Smith developed an early interest in exercise before adopting fitness as a lifestyle in 1996. Early on, he made it a priority to surround himself with people he could learn from and grow from their knowledge. He found a fitness home at Fitness World Gyms & Free Weight Gym where he would spend his time being coached by Master Trainer, Russell McCall. Jauron would eventually go on to become a trainer himself at those facilities. About 3 years ago, Jauron would make a breakthrough in the exercise equipment realm. He found that the machines and workouts available meant to work the all important core, were just barely adequate. He started to do research and ask questions. For answers, he relied on help from the women demographic 52
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to aid him in building a better ab workout that targeted the mid section more efficiently. In the end, his invested time researching and compiling information gave him an idea for a new piece of equipment. Working from his living room floor, Jauron used pieces of an old mountain bike, a purchased areo bar and the wheels off a damaged trike scooter. He began to piece together what would become the first Ab-1 Exercise Wheel. It is unique in that it positions you in an upside down, double crunch position. Most specifically the Ab-1 Exercise Wheel targets the lower abs but works your entire core with each ab roll. The most magnificent advantage to this piece of equipment is that there is absolutely no neck or back pain thanks to the design and the position. The areo bar functions by mimicking the mechanics of a bike by removing all of the pressure from your neck, shoulders and lower back. All of the impact is directed to the abdominal muscles making it so effective that one roll of the wheel feels like 10 regular crunches! It is perfect for a wide range of individuals from small children to those who are 250+ pounds. This unique invention has the ability to grow with you because
For more information about the Ab1 Exercise Wheel, please visit facebook.com/ab1exercisewheel/.
you can connect it to the cable crossover in gyms. You can also use it to do curls or for connecting resistance bands. It is versatile and compact enough to make it perfect for home or gym use. With help from Startsville and the wonderful staff at the Hartsville Chamber of Commerce, Jauron set out to write his own patent which is currently pending. For now, Jauron patiently waits approval of his patent so that he can complete the next steps in this inventor’s story.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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HEALTH AND WELLNESS
THE
Dreaded TRIAD
Laxity, Leakage, and Dryness story by Dr. Edward O’Dell, M.D., FACOG
Hey, ladies! Do you suffer
from ongoing personal dryness due to menopause, or that annoying bladder leakage that keeps you hesitant to run or play sports, or perhaps you have noted an increase in laxity after childbirth or menopause? Good news… new technology is available in Florence making it easy to perform procedures with no downtime to control and cure your troublesome problem. It’s called FEMI-LIFT and is available exclusively at Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center. Now, many of you have tried vaginal creams or oral medication to help the problem, and many of you have failed to get the relief you desire. That’s where Femi-Lift is a great alternative as a primary or secondary treatment after other methods have failed.
WHAT IS FEMI-LIFT AND HOW DOES IT WORK? Femi-Lift simply uses tiny laser beams to re-strengthen the collagen support tissue of the vagina and to stimulate the lining tissue to re-grow into healthy cells that begin to produce moisture.
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The laser is applied through a specially designed speculum that delivers the laser energy at specific spots along the length of the vagina. From the laser effect, the collagen support tissues re-generate, causing a shrinking effect in the vagina and an improvement in laxity and urethral (bladder stem) support. Best of all it takes less than 5 minutes to do and you can go back to work or other activities immediately after. There is NO downtime. We have patients to get this done during their lunch break and go right back to work. Femi-Lift requires no local anesthesia making it virtually discomfort free. We do ask you to do three treatments spaced a month apart as that gives you the best long-term correction. How are patients rating this? 95-99% resolution of their problem. Most patients are noting at least 50% improvement after the first treatment with resolve of symptoms after the second one. We have had patients go back to exercise and even come off those messy creams they were using for dryness.
“If you suffer from any of the dreaded triad of personal dryness, personal laxity, or bladder leakage, then you need to consider Femi-Lift. A free consultation can be done at Genesis where we can determine if this treatment is right for you. It’s amazing and it works.” - Edward O’Dell, M.D., FACOG Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center Medical Director and Co-Founder
For more information, please visit our website at genesiscosmeticlasercenter.com and click on our link to Femi-Lift. Call us at 843-669-2220 to schedule your appointment.
January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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POSITIVE PURSUIT
Unified Di!rsity Working together as one body for His purpose story by Pastor Brad Lewis, Palmetto Street Church of God The necessity for healing and unity is clearly evident all around us. Scripture teaches that unified diversity is the will of God. If this is the will of God, why do we see so much division and hurt? The answer is clear; it has to deal with our perspective. There are really only two perspectives, God’s and ours. Our perspective is what comes natural; it’s our thoughts and preferences. Sometimes we are so determined that what we think and like are right, that we can’t be convinced otherwise. But if our thoughts and likes aren’t Biblical they aren’t right, no matter how much we believe them. Our natural man resists what doesn’t look, act, or think like we do, thus creating division in every area. To the natural man, the thought that you can have unity among so much diversity is impossible. How can you unify and bring healing to people that come from so many different backgrounds? How do you unify and heal people that look and
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think so differently? This can only be done as people look from God’s perspective. Christ taught us in Matthew 6 to pray that God’s Kingdom and will would be done on earth as it is in Heaven. To create unity among so much diversity can only be done as God’s Kingdom, not ours, is established. In the Kingdom of God unified diversity exists, but it doesn’t look the way we expect it to. Many times we think this term means everyone must look and act exactly alike, but that is far from the truth. God created great differences in people on purpose. Those distinctions must remain, but they must work for the common purpose of Christ. God gives us a picture of what this looks like in 1 Corinthians 12. Verse 12 states, “For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ.” We can understand this by
the illustration given in verses 15-18. Our personal body is made up of many things, and all of those things are needed and necessary for the body to function correctly. Diversity and the unity of those things are the plan of God. God knew that we would resist diversity but He insisted it must be. Verse 19 states “And if they were all one member, where would the body be?” There is no such thing as a society without diversity, we can’t function properly without it. So for our communities, homes, churches, and nation to function as God has intended, we must have His perspective on diversity to have unity. We must resist thinking and actions that reflect the idea if you don’t look and act like me you are wrong. Instead of wanting everyone to be like us, let’s all strive to be like Christ and work together as one body for His purpose. Because His purpose will bring healing to our land and unity to our world.
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PAYING IT FORWARD
Pepsi of Florence donating time
to fill bags.
Bethany Warmka
Local Non-profit Group Provides Meals for Children story by Rion McAllister Sadly, there are many children fighting an unseen battle so undercover that it most times goes unnoticed. You probably wouldn’t know it to look at them, but these precious little ones are pushing through the pain and stress caused by this preventable affliction. It affects their ability to sleep, learn and enjoy life. These tiny people suffer at the hands of hunger. Many kids rely on school breakfasts and lunches to provide the majority of their sustenance throughout the week; but what are these children to do on the weekends? Not only do some students come to rely THE SUPPORT on the school meals but FROM THE parents desperately lean on them as well. So who will COMMUNITY step up? Who will recognize HAS BEEN and take ownership of this OUTSTANDING unimaginable problem? Who AND HELP 4 KIDS will feed these innocent children? Help 4 Kids will IS BEYOND answer that calling!
AMAZED AT THE RESPONSE FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES. 58
Help 4 Kids is a nonprofit organization that works with school administrators to determine children who are at risk of having little to no food over the weekends. They
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then discreetly provide nutritious, child friendly meals to at-risk children to sustain them over the weekends. This provides unimaginable relief for worry-weary parents. “Society isn’t aware at how hard people are working for very little,” Diane Welsh, President of Help 4 Kids says. Inspired by the message in the book of James that spoke to the idea that “words without work were hollow,” a ladies Bible Study group was moved to action. They felt called to serve children. After a meeting with the Myrtle Beach Help 4 Kids in March 2013, Diane Welsh, Clark Reifsnider, and Allie Walker started the foundation that would survive only through volunteerism and the generous donations of the Florence community. They are currently working with all of the Headstart programs and elementary schools (3k-4th grade) in all five of the Florence school districts. What started as a mission to feed 100 kids per weekend has grown to a whopping 1800 children this year. The support from the community has been outstanding and Help 4 Kids is beyond amazed at the response from local businesses. Over the past three years they have been overwhelmed by businesses willing to lend themselves for their cause. Most recently, with food donations from ADP, ACS, and BCBS, the organization was able to retain nearly $30,000 worth of food donations. ADP held their own food drive to stock the Help 4 Kids shelves and CSP Insurance Services graciously donates the storage space for this remarkable nonprofit. It doesn’t end there. Pepsi,
New Ebenezer Church, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints volunteer their time to help pack the lunch bags. These are just a few of the numerous local businesses that have lent a hand. The organization is also blessed by many personal volunteers. When searching for a way to get her family more involved in the community, Lynn Warmka and her daughters decided to partner with Help 4 Kids and have been volunteering every Thursday for the past two years. “I wanted to get my daughters involved and I loved that Help 4 Kids worked directly with kids,” Lynn says. Working directly with youngsters is exactly what makes this particular mission so incredible. By providing provisions to the kids, instead of the parents, the program ensures that each child feels that someone cares about them. This direct form of service makes a huge difference as it provides dependability and consistency in the lives of the children. Elaine Trant has been volunteering for two years and says, “If we can help a little to get the kids through the weekend, we want to do it!” The nonprofit isn’t slowing down anytime soon. As they continue to work to fill the bellies of little ones through the school year, they are making plans for expanding their operation down the road. They have dreams of including a summer program so that the food doesn’t stop coming when school ends. However, with weekly expenses totaling around $4000 after donations, they will continue to rely on the generosity of Florence to realize their dreams of seeing to it that every child has a full tummy and a happy heart!
Help4Kids is currently in dire need of volunteers to assist them working with the public on the second Saturday of each month from 10am-4pm. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE CONTACT THEM AT 843.580.4111 OR AT HELP4KIDSFLORENCE@GMAIL.COM OR VISIT WWW.HELP4KIDSFLORENCE.ORG. January 2017 | VIP Magazine
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
“After 20 years of experience in long-term care, I know Wilson Senior Care is different! We are 100% employee owned, and this is evident in the care and devotion our team provides to the short term rehab and long term residents we serve. While a career in long-term care is challenging, it is rewarding to work with such a great team, who is focused on quality of care. I love working for WSC, and we are committed to making a difference in the lives of others!�
-Sonya Foster, RN, BSN, BC, WCC, CLNC Wilson Senior Care, Vice President & Chief Clinical Officer 60
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