magazine Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com Office Manager Tiffany Skipper jtskipp35@gmail.com Advertising Executives Jordan Pupa jordan@vipmagsc.com Julie C. Tyler juliectyler@yahoo.com Creative Design Tuesday Taylor
Contributing Photographers Kathleen Dew Phillip Guyton Tracy Rowell Fred Salley Contributing Writers Edward Berhling, MD Mark W. Buyck, III Ashley Elvington Brock McCallister John Elwood Owens, MD, JD Jordan Pupa Brittany Reames Karla Stance Margie Whitehall
Serving Florence, Hartsville, Darlington, Marion, Mullins, Lake City and the surrounding areas 2011-B Second Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29501 FIND US ON FACEBOOK
For advertising rates, call 843-687-4236.
COVER CONCEPT
Embracing the new year can be tantalizing. We hope this issue of Vip will help you discover the new you in the new year with stories of self help: Finding Strength, Endurance & Nutrition - page 10; Resolutions For Your Skin - page 12; and The Importance of Massage Therapy - page 16. If you’d like your photography featured on Vip’s cover, send your entries to heather@vipmagsc.com!
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CONTENTS ISSUE 38
magazine 16
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JANUARY 2019 HEALTH + BEAUTY 10 Fitness Forum: Strength, Endurance & Nutrition 12 2019 Resolutions For Your Skin 14 HopeHealth: The Home Field Advantage 16 Serenity Touch: Massage Therapy 18 Around Town: Mingle & Jingle
BUSINESS 20 Wilcox, Buyck & Wiilliams, P.A.: Local Political Parties
22 The Citizens Bank Merger 23 Honda: All New Talon 1000X & 1000R 24 LIGHT Farms: Bringing The Farm To Your Table 26 SC Real Foods 28 Flo Co First Steps: Farrah Turner Scholarship 30 Kidperneurs: Belles Beads 32 January 2019 Calendar of Events 34 Mercy Medicine Free Clinic 25th Anniversary
LIFESTYLE 36 Lula's Coffee Co.: Coffee Lingo 38 The Butterfly Effect Mentoring Program
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40 Fitness-O-Rama: Scott Garner 42 Reset New Year's Resolutions 44 Around Town: Bullies 2 The Rescue 5K 46 Bucket List: Oak Angel Tree 48 Around Town: Women's Leadership Symposium 50 Gift Guide: Watches 52 Around Town: Downtown Christmas Magic 54 January Book Suggestions
HOME
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56 In the Kitchen: Lentil Soup 58 Clutter Cutting Tips For The New Year
HEALTH + BEAUTY
3 TERMS THAT GUIDE YOU TOWARDS
Good Health & Wellness:
STRENGTH, ENDURANCE & NUTRITION story by
Brock McCallister Firefighter, City of Florence Head Trainer, Fitness Forum
There are three terms that are not exclusive to elite athletes, but often are ones that only get used in a sports setting. They are terms that can and should be used to describe what each one of us should be focusing on - strength, endurance and nutrition. No matter if you are someone who works at a desk or a firefighter pulling someone from a burning building, if you seek a healthy lifestyle it will revolve around these three terms. Throughout life there will always be heavy objects to move, something that will make you stop and catch your breath, and illnesses that will challenge your overall health, so if we can manage these three things we will have a pretty good grasp of health and wellness. First, let’s talk about strength. Strength by definition is, “our power to resist force.” This may seem very generic, but in other words its our 10
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ability to move or stop objects and as we age our ability to develop strength diminishes. In order to develop strength we must, over time, increase the loads that we try to move by pulling, pushing, dragging, and/or holding. Some movements that resemble these, dead-lifting (pulling), squatting (pushing), bench or shoulder pressing (pushing), and dragging. Implementing these exercises with gradually increasing loads will improve your strength drastically and have you ever heard anyone say, “I really wish a wasn’t this strong!” Next, endurance defined as “our ability to sustain a prolonged stressful effort or activity.” Now a good example of this would be running a marathon, but it is not exclusive to runners. Playing with your grand kids all day, doing work in the yard, and walking the dogs all require endurance. The demands may be different, but they still reflect on our ability to endure working
or moving for an extended period of time. Now how do we work on this? Simple, just like strength training you have to gradually increase either the amount of work in a given time frame or increase the amount of time that you do an activity. An example of this would be, decreasing your mile run time from ten minutes to seven minutes or increasing the distance you run in ten minutes from one mile to one and a half miles. Increasing your endurance can help decrease your risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes as well as boost your immune system to get your through flu season!
Strength No Join Fee during the month of January at Fitness Forum. Also the start of the Biggest Loser Competition. To learn more, visit www.fitnessforumonline.com
Last and most important, nutrition. Without good Nutrition you will hinder both your ability to increase your strength and endurance! Now, everyone seems to have their go to “diet” when they want to drop a few pounds before summer, but for the most part every successful “diet” will have some of the same components, real food and no added sugar. But what does that even mean? Real food would be the stuff that has an expiration date like bananas or meat from the market and some examples of added sugar are soda or candy. Some of the most simple advice for trying to eat healthier would be to stay on the outside of the grocery store, no fast food, and no sugary drinks like soda or sweet tea. As Greg Glassman, Founder of CrossFit says, “ Eat meats and vegetables, nuts and seeds, some fruit, little starch and NO SUGAR!”
Endurance
In closing, you can read all of the health and fitness magazines that you want, but when in comes down to it, if you want to have the ability to handle most things that life throws at you, just remember to lift heavy (strength), move fast (endurance), and eat clean (nutrition).
Nutrition
120 East Elm Street, Florence 843-661-3800 | fitnessforumonline.com bmccallister@fitnessforumonline.com
Stop in today at the Tri2Run shop for a professional fitting for all your fitness shoe needs.
Exclusively offered at Fitness Forum. January 2019
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HEALTH + BEAUTY
Each year, we all make resolutions to better ourselves. Let this new year be a new start for your skin, too. Here is a list to help you reach your skin care goals and obtain that glowing healthy complexion! story by
Brittany Reames Licensed Esthetician
1273 Celebration Blvd, Florence 843.669.2220
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Resolutions For Your Skin 1
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Get to know your skin and choose the correct products to addess your specific concerns. If you have trouble deciding which products are best for your skin and are overwhelmed with all of the options, a licensed aesthetician or a skin care specialist can help you. The appropriate skin care regimen and consistency are crucial for reaching your skin goals.
Wear sunscreen everyday!!!! It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, what the weather is, or what your plans are for the day, a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays is a must! More than 90% of aging is caused by sun exposure, This includes tanning beds! Sunscreen is your #1 anti aging product. Look for a lightweight formula with a spf of at least 30. I prefer hydrating ones containg zinc oxide.
Incorporate an antioxidant serum like Vitamin C and a retinoid into your skincare routine. The most common skincare antioxidant is Vitamin C which benefits the skin by evening out skin tone, creating a shield against enviromental aggessors, and improving hydration. Tretinoins and retinols stimulate collegen production and cell turnover which aid in clearing up acne and minimizing fine lines and discoloration.
Don’t forget your neck, declotte, and hands. The aging process shows up here as well. Whatever you do to your face, do to your neck and chest and the back of your hands. There are also many products and procedures that are specefically used to treat these body parts.
Skip the sugar (and dairy if acne is a concern). Diet also effects our skin. Sugar is bad for our waistline and our skin! It contributes to both aging and acne. Too much sugar leads to inflammation which causes the breakdown of collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkles and sagging. Sugar stimulates the production of certain pimple inducing hormones,too. Dairy products are also acne producing culprits.
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Stay hydrated. A lack of hydration contributes to the look and feel of our skin. Our skin cells, like all of the cells in our body need water to function properly. If these cells are dehydrated it can present itself as dry, flaky, and tight skin with more noticeable wrinkles. Water also helps our body to flush itself of toxins. Not drinking enough water can lead to a build up of harmful substances that can cause breakouts.
Exercise on a regular basis. Exercise appears on most everyones resolution list for obvious reasons, but it positiveley effects our skin, too. It stimulates cell regeneration and helps remove those pesky toxins. Good exercises to try are strength training like yoga, barre, pilates, and TRX and cardio like jogging on shock absorbing surfaces, swimming, cycling, and HIIT training.
Get plenty of sleep! Nighttime is when our body is in repair and renewal mode.It gets rid of toxins and produces collagen and elastin to keep breakouts and wrinkles away. At night, our body also increases blood flow leading to a healthy glow. Lack of sleep leads to dull skin, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark undereye circles. Remember that it is never a compliment when someone says that you look tired
Always wash your face before you go to bed! Help your skin rejuvenate itself by removing the dirt and grime of the day. Clean skin leads to healthy skin.
10 Realize the importance of in-office treatments. There
are many non surgical options to address all of your skin concerns some with instant results and no downtime. This is where a skin expert can customize treatments and procedures for your skin. Together you can achieve lasting, glowing results.
Visit Brittany at Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center, where she can help you achieve your skin care goals. January 2019
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HEALTH + BEAUTY
THE HOME FIELD ADVANTAGE of a Primary Care Home story byby Donna Tracy,Behling, Communication Coordinator, HopeHealth story Dr. Edward Chief Medical Officer, HopeHealth
Health care is just like football. Even those who work hard at staying healthy will fumble or get tackled. Everyone gets sick at some point. Flu, a common cold, stomach bugs - they all make the rounds at this time of year. While a trip to an urgent care clinic might help ease the symptoms, a primary care home is typically your better option for long-term healthy outcomes. Patients who have a primary care provider have overall lower healthcare costs and higher satisfaction rates. The advantages of a primary care home are much like playing football in your home stadium. You get to know your provider and your care team, and, more importantly, your providers get to know you and your health history. Continuous care at a primary care home builds a longterm relationship between you and your provider that can help reveal ongoing health issues that might otherwise go unrecognized at a single doctor’s office visit. Such relationships lead to better communications and disease management, less risk of complications, fewer hospitalizations, and fewer visits to an emergency department. A primary care home is more than just having the name of your doctor at the tip of your tongue. It is where your primary care provider plays quarterback to a care
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team that coordinates your health care beyond treating a sudden case of sniffles. It is where wellness examinations, preventive services, chronic diseases management and acute illness treatments are first downs in your health care playbook. It is where you get to score touchdowns on the health goals in your life. In a primary care home, your provider also acts as a coach, helping you navigate through the game of health. The health care industry is getting more complicated. With advances in technology, improvements in medical therapies, and a convoluted system of insurance and regulatory issues, it is essential to have a primary care team that knows you. Offense is obviously important as you move toward the goals of chronic disease management. Managing care on a continuum and in context of the individual patient is a more effective, efficient, and holistic approach to patient care. Treatment of acute illnesses also requires knowledge of your overall health and medical conditions. Defense also plays a key role in healthcare wins! Preventive health services, immunizations, wellness exams, and screening tests are all critical in maintaining good health.
A primary care home also helps maximize your health-care dollars with significant savings over unnecessary emergency department visits. Urgent Care Centers and Emergency Departments do serve a necessary purpose. They are appropriate for acute, potentially serious conditions that are not appropriate for an office setting, or may need urgent treatment when your provider’s office may not be accessible. How do you know when should you go to your primary care provider or the emergency department?
Primary Care Office:
persistent pain or condition minor aches and pains arthritis cold or flu-like symptoms earaches minor burns or cuts minor dog or animal bites persistent fever skin rashes sprains symptoms of sexually transmitted infections sudden/severe pain
Emergency Department:
coughing up or vomiting blood difficulty speaking fainting or sudden weakness severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea shortness of breath sudden change in or loss of vision sudden chest pain or pressure sudden confusion or change in mental state suicidal feelings uncontrolled bleeding
As you enjoy (or suffer through) the bowl games this time of year, you may be contemplating some New Year’s Resolutions. These almost always include some impossible health goal – like losing 100 pounds or exercising six hours a day. Why not make a resolution that is truly beneficial to your health, and extremely easy to keep – make an appointment with your primary care provider! Happy New Year!
360 NORTH IRBY ST. FLORENCE 843.667.9414 | HOPE-HEALTH.ORG January 2019
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HLEATH + BEAUTY
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A Health Benefit for the Body, Mind and Mental State story by Jordan Pupa
106 W. Main St. Lake City • 843-374-8898
www.serenitytouch.com serenitytouchlc@yahoo.com Facebook: @serenitytouchlc Apart from being a business owner, Sheriko is also a wife to a loving and supporting husband, Chris, and a mother of two wonderful children, Christopher (14yrs) & Dakota (12yrs).
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AROUND TOWN: 3RD ANNUAL MINGLE & JINGLE
3rd Annual
Mingle & Jingle 18
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The Hartsville Young Professionals (HYP) and Sonoco Young Professionals (SYP) held their 3rd annual Mingle & Jingle event on December 7th at Black Creek Arts Council. The event was aimed at raising donations and awareness for Cypress Adventures. Photos by Mixed Metaphor Photography.
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BUSINESS
Local Political Parties Mark W. Buyck, III
In our last couple of articles, we have detailed the origins of the modern Republican Party in South Carolina. The State first broke with the national Democratic Party in the Presidential Election of 1948 when it supported native son Strom Thurmond. Eisenhower and Nixon were both competitive in South Carolina in the elections of 1952, 1956, and 1960. By 1964, Senator Strom Thurmond had changed his party allegiance from Democrat to Republican and the State overwhelming supported Republican Barry Goldwater in the 1964 election. On the state level, Republicans were gaining support in urban areas and were successful in electing a Republican Congressman as well as a handful of seats in the State Legislature. Republicans were also active in the Florence area. In 1964, Republican Louis Hite ran in a special election to fill a vacant seat on the Florence City Council. Hite lost the election; but he set the stage for future Republican candidates. During the 1964 election season, Florence City Councilman Dennis O’Brian switched from the Democrat to the Republican party. O’Brian ran for re-election to a full term in 1965. At the time there were two open seats and the members of the Council ran on a city-wide basis. Three Democrats ran and the two winning the Democratic primary were incumbent Weston Patterson and V. G.
248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.662.3258 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.650.6777
Business Law, Litigation, Real Estate, and Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys
Arnette. The Republicans held a city convention and unanimously nominated O’Brian. O’Brian’s support was widespread. Mayor David McLeod publicly endorsed O’Brian and Patterson. On the day before the election, an ad ran in The Florence Morning News supporting Patterson and O’Brian. The ad stated that “Many Democrats on May 4th will vote for Patterson (Democrat) and O’Brian (Republican).” The ad was paid for by “Democrats supporting Dennis D. O’Brian and R. Weston Patterson.” Patterson and O’Brian won the election and for the first time the City of Florence had elected a Republican to a local office. In 1966, there were two United States Senatorial elections in South Carolina. Strom Thurmond would have to face the voters for the first time since switching parties in 1964. There was also a special election due to the death of Senator Olin Johnston in 1965. Shortly after Johnston’s death, then Governor Donald Russell resigned, whereupon his former Lt. Governor Robert McNair appointed Russell to the Senate. Russell ran for the seat against another former Democrat Governor Ernest “Fritz” Hollings. The contest between Hollings and Russell generated a great deal of interest among the Democrats. The Democrats nominated little known Bradley Morrah, a State Senator from Greenville, to oppose Thurmond. The Republicans nominated State Senator Marshall Parker for the seat in the a special election. In September of 1966, the State Republican party held two major fundraising dinners and campaign events. Former Vice-President Richard Nixon was the keynote speaker at an event in Columbia and U.S. House minority leader Gerald R. Ford spoke in Charleston. Hollings easily defeated Russell in the Democrat Primary. Many voters seemed to have a distaste for Russell’s machinations in getting appointed to the seat. Hollings and Parker ran a hotly contested race with Hollings ultimately winning 223,790 (51.3%) to 212,032 (48.7%). Thurmond easily defeated Morrah winning 271,297 (62.2%) to 164,955 (37.8%). Hollings and Thurmond would serve together in the United States Senate until Thurmond’s retirement in 2003, having the distinction of being the longest serving of past Senators from the same state. Hollings has the distinction of being the longest serving junior Senator in the United States Senate history. When Hollings retired in 2005, he was the fourth most senior member of the Senate. 1966 also saw the first governor’s race that the Republicans contested in 90 years. Democrat Bob McNair defeated Joseph O. Rogers, a Republican state senator from Manning. McNair won 255,854 to 184,088 but Republicans were buoyed by Rogers’s statewide strength. January 2019
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BUSINESS
Heritage Community Bank Merges Into The Citizens Bank Citizens Bancshares Corporation Completes Merger With Regional Bankshares, Inc. Citizens Bancshares Corporation announced that the merger of Regional Bankshares, Inc. into Citizens Bancshares Corporation and the merger of Regional’s subsidiary, Heritage Community Bank, into Citizens’ subsidiary, The Citizens Bank, was effective Friday, November 30, 2018. “The Citizens Bank and Heritage Community Bank are an excellent fit for each other and will be even better together as we strengthen our presence in eastern South Carolina,” said H. Blake Gibbons, Jr., President of Citizens Bancshares Corporation. “We look forward to serving Heritage Community Bank customers and leveraging our stability and product base so that, together, we can build on an already solid foundation.” On November 5, 2018, the shareholders of Hartsville, S.C.-based Regional Bankshares, Inc., voted to approve the merger agreement with Olanta, S.C.-headquartered Citizens Bancshares Corporation. The merger was previously approved by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the South Carolina Board of Financial Institutions. The three Heritage Community Bank locations in Hartsville, Camden and McBee, will operate as offices of The Citizens Bank. In addition to the former Heritage Community Bank locations, Citizens operates 16 branches in Florence, Georgetown, Clarendon, Lee, Sumter, Dorchester and Williamsburg counties in South Carolina. Founded in 1943, The Citizens Bank is a subsidiary of Citizens Bancshares Corporation. With completion of the merger, Citizens Bancshares Corporation has total assets of approximately $540 million.
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BUSINESS
Talon 1000R
The All-New Talon 1000X & 1000R Honda of South Carolina Expands Facility Honda of South Carolina has worked diligently to expand their facility and the reason why is finally here - production of the All-New Talon 1000X and Talon 1000R. The two models are the best-built, bestengineered vehicles in their class, taking rider comfort, balanced performance, and build quality to the next level. Both the Talon 1000X and the Talon 1000R share the same powerful, high-output engine, Automatic DCT Transmission, and I-4WD technology package. While they are similar, they do take different approaches to hardcore off-roading. The Talon 1000R has a longer wheelbase, a wider vehicle track, and more suspension travel. It’s a perfect match for riders who tackle rugged, highspeed terrain. The Talon 1000X is 64 inches wide and has an 87.6-inch wheelbase. It also uses a threelink rear suspension, which makes it a natural for owners who prioritize maneuverability and quick handling. Either way, you really can’t go wrong when you choose a Honda Talon! Talon 1000X
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BUSINESS
Bringing the
Farm to Your Table story by Margie Whitehall
LIGHT Farms in Lamar is all about growing healthy real food that honors God by honoring his creation through the use of organic self-sustaining methods. Andrew and Valerie Criswell own and operate LIGHT Farms, which works side by side with their retail store, SC Real Foods, to deliver TRUE “Farm to Table” food that not only tastes great, but is healthy too! Neither Andrew nor Valerie has a background or education in agriculture, but they built a premiere farm that focuses on sustainability practices, preservation of heritage breed animals, and exercising dominion over the land for God’s purposes. At LIGHT Farms, they grow organically. They do not use any pesticides or herbicides. They farm pork, beef and eggs. All of LIGHT Farms' animals are Heritage Breeds which are on the conservation list. This not only helps preserve these breeds, but creates more flavorful and nutritious products than their traditionally farmed counterparts. LIGHT Farms ensures their locally grown and locally prepared food is available for its immediate community. The way their food is grown and prepared makes all the difference.
Flip the page to learn more about LIGHT Farms sister company, SC Real Foods.
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BUSINESS
story by Margie Whitehall Instead of eating fast food and commercially prepared foods, we can instead eat freshly prepared ones that contain wholesome ingredients similar to those our great-grandparents would have eaten. Lucky for us, SC Real Foods in Florence can keep us thinking and feeling healthy, as they are committed to offering the very best in their bakery and market. SC Real Foods carries ready-to-eat meal prep dishes sold a la carte, by the pound, as well as specialty bakery goods - made from scratch with wholesome real food ingredients. They also carry organic groceries, as well as local eggs, meat, dairy, and produce. Previous owners of Pee Dee Christian Book & Supply, Andrew & Valerie Criswell, own and operate SC Real Foods and LIGHT Farms, which is a completely organic operation where the animals are all pasture raised and free range, and never fed artificial hormones or antibiotics. Val was diagnosed with hypothyroid disease in 2009. She inquired of the Lord, who told her that her healing was through obedience of the types of food she was eating. She bought a grain mill and began preparing all of the family's baked goods from fresh-ground flour. She immediately began to feel better and over the course of the next year, she slowly began replacing more and more of the processed foods in her diet with real food. Within a year, she was completely healed and was able to come off of the thyroid medication. After selling bulk purchases of real food products through Pee Dee Christian Book & Supply, SC Real Foods was born in 2011. SC Real Foods showcases their menu online, including specific dietary details. Different meals accommodate dietary demands, including meals that may be dairy free, gluten free, and grain free. Some are also low carb, keto and diabetic-friendly, as well as vegan and vegetarian. All of their bakery and market items are made from scratch in their on-site kitchen by professionally trained chefs, full-time bakers, and kitchen staff who share one thing in common- they all love food and enjoy preparing it for others! Real & Ready Meal Prep foods are conveniently sold by the pound in individual-serve microwavable containers, making it easier to maintain a certain diet while living a busy lifestyle. In fact, they have logged 260 different menu items, between the bakery and ready-made foods, in which they constantly rotate. The SC Real Foods' kitchen staff puts out new menu items daily, so be sure to check their website to see what's available. You won’t want to miss out on their Butternut Squash & Apple Soup, Spaghetti Squash Lasagna, Shredded Beef Barbacoa, Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, and other tasty crowd favorites! Don't be frustrated if you don't know how to cook a certain way or know where to find certain ingredients. SC Real Foods serves regular people that just want to eat better and gives them access to a wide variety of better tasting products. They are a place that the community can walk into and purchase homemade wholesome food that their family will love. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing value for their customers. So, what are you waiting for? Visit SC Real Foods today for homemade, highquality, fresh and delicious meals
SC Real Foods 1225 Celebration Blvd., Florence (located across from Bojangles) • 843.235.1175 or 866.341.3389 • screalfoods.com 26 26
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BUSINESS
Florence County First Steps Presents
The Farrah Turner Scholarship Award Florence County First Steps (FCFS) held its annual FY18 meeting at the Florence County Library on December 11, 2018. FCFS is a non-profit that offers assistance to lowincome families and helps provide financial assistance to send children to experienced day cares. FCFS’s vision is that every child in Florence County will be prepared for success in school. Executive Director Spencer R. Scott started off the meeting with an overview of last year’s accomplishments. Last year, FCFS provided 42 children with scholarship assistance so their parents could work or attend school with the Child Care Scholarship Program. The Child Care Training Program provided 27 early childhood staff with high quality training, and 366 children across 17 programs had access to teachers that were trained through FCFS. The Quality Enhancement program provided $5,967 in materials grants to participating childcare providers. Finally, the Parenting Program served 45 children and 45 families. 1,450 hours were spent in homes with families. Scott then awarded a certificate to Katie Godwin, whose daughter, Officer Farrah Turner, was fatally wounded in the October 3rd ambush. The certificate stated that First Steps has created The Farrah Turner Scholarship Award, which will be given to a child from birth-to-three years of age who meets the First Steps requirements. The scholarship is valued at approximately $5,200 per child. First Steps also revealed their winners for the Terrific Toddlers Baby Contest. The King was Mr. Mark Keeson McClain, Jr., son of Keyha Johnson and Mark E. McClain. The Queen was Miss Karleigh N. Ray, daughter of Jasmine Scott and Karl Ray. The King and Queen were both given a crown and will be on future promotional material for First Steps. Musical performances were given by Precious One Learning Center and Live Love Grow Learning Center. The meeting concluded with the Florence County Children’s Library reading several books to the children, including Pete the Cat Saves Christmas. The meeting concluded with a special guest, Mickey Mouse, for the children.
For information related to Florence County First Steps, contact Spencer R. Scott at 843-629-0202. 28
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BUSINESS
Kidpreneurs
Belles Beads story by Jordan Pupa
It is true that little minds have big ideas and entrepreneurship can start early on. For second grader Halle Belle McCutchen, it all started with a love for jewelry and beading, an activity she could partake in after school and on weekends. In August of 2018, Halle Belle started “Belles Beads” where she specializes in the design and creation of fashionable bracelets and necklaces, including custom pieces, that she can share with ladies and children. Halle Belle’s specialty is creating bracelets that can be worn as a single or that can be stacked. Her newest collection, “Like Mama,” consists of custom-made bracelets for mothers and daughters, because what little one doesn’t want to be just “Like Mama?” Of course, Belles Beads wouldn’t be possible without supervision from Mom. Joanie McCutchen shares, “Halle Belle has always been crafty and has to keep her hands busy. Her love for beading and creating her own style of jewelry doesn’t come as a surprise, as she has always loved jewelry and marched to the beat of her own drum.”
Halle Belle is a 2nd grade student at Robert E Lee Academy and resident of Bishopville. She loves horses, reading, beading, and her two little sisters.
The sky is the limit for Belles Beads, as she is just getting started. Halle Belle’s wheels are forever turning. “She is always eager to get home from school to see what new supplies the mail man has brought so she can create something new, but of course after homework and studies,” shares Joanie. “At the pace Halle Belle is going right now I don’t see her slowing down. Belles Beads has been a wonderful outlet for Halle Belle and she plans to continue as long as her little heart desires.” To check out what Belles Beads has to offer or to make a purchase, visit @belles_beads on Facebook and Instagram. Belles Beads can also be purchased at Turner & Scoot, a women’s clothing boutique located at 208 N. Main Street in Bishopville.
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JANUARY CALENDAR
of
EVENTS
FLORENCE 1.2-1.4 Awesome Arts Winter Extravaganza Camp, Girls University
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1.3 Tech Talk, Drs. Bruce & Lee Foundation Library, 9:15am-11:15am
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Every Wednesday • Wine Down Wednesday, Dolce Vita, 4pm Every Thursday • Ovis Hill Farmer’s Market, Naturally Outdoor, 3-7pm
1.4 Girls Tech Club, Girls University, 6:30pm
• Trivia Night, Southern Hops, 7pm
1.4 Life Skills University, Victors, 8am 1.4 Florence Community Blood Drive, Florence Center, 12pm-6pm
FLORENCE
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Every Saturday • City Center Farmer’s Market, Downtown 9am-1pm
1.11 STEM Fridays, Girls University, 6:30pm 1.12 Weekend FUN Clubs for Girls, Girls University, 4:30pm
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1.12 Serger Basics, House of Vaccuums & Sewing Machines, 3pm
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1.13 Southeast Wedding & Event Winter Expo, SiMT, 2pm 1.13 Harlem Globetrotters Fan Powered World Tour, Florence Center, 3pm
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1.15 Paint Nite, Local Motive, 7-9pm 1.16 Mornings at the Museum, Florence County Museum, . 10-11am
HARTSVILLE 1.2-1.12 Christmas Exhibit, Hartsville Museum, 10am 1.4 First Friday Concert Series, First Presbyterian Church, 12-12:30pm 1.4 New Year Tribe Gathering, Black Creek Arts, 6pm 1.5 Miss Winter Belles, Center Theater, 11:30am
1.17 Mike Keneally Band, FMU PAC, 7:30pm
1.8 Blood Drive, Carolina Pines, 1:30pm
1.18 Andrew Rohlk, Local Motive Brewing, 8pm
1.9 Quarterly Lunch & Learn, Hampton Inn, 12pm
1.18-1.20
1.10 Sip & Sew with Audrey Grantham, Black Creek Arts, 6pm
Kids Jamboree, Florence Center
1.19 Ranky Tanky, FMU PAC, 7:30pm 1.23-1.24
1.24 Commissioner Breakfast at the SC AgriBiz & Farm Expo, Florence Center, 8am
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1.24 Story Writing Workshop, Florence County Public Library, 6:30pm
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1.25 Little Shop of Horrors, Florence Little Theatre, 7:30pm
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1.26-1.27 Gun & Knife Show, Florence Center 1.26 The Outlaws, FMU PAC, 7:30pm 1.31 Solve it Cyrus & The Aftermath of Math Class, FMU PAC, 9:30am
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1.11 Live Music with Adam Barley, Retrofit Sip-n-Seat, 8pm
SC AgriBiz & Farm Expo, Florence Center
1.24 Pee Dee Regional Art Competition, The Waters Building, 10am-5pm
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1.14 Butterfly Effect Hartsville Orientation, Seersuckergypsy, 6:30pm
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1.22 Pet Portraits, Artbug Studio, 6pm 1.29 Create Photos like a Pro with your iPhone, Black Creek Arts, 6pm
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1.31 Dancing with the Stars of Darlington County, Center Theater, 7:30pm
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JANUARY 2019 S M T W T F S
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LAKE CITY CITY LAKE 1.5
Polar Plunge, Lake City Lake Park
1.10 Art Explorers, Artfields Office, 4-5:30pm 1.12 Botanical Infused Candles, Moore Farms, 10am-12:30pm
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1.12 Model Train & Vintage Toy Show, The Rob, 9am-3pm
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1.16 Night of the Talks, Jones-Carter Gallery, 6pm 1.24 Pine Cone Zinnia Wreath Class, Moore Farms, 10am-2pm
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1.25 Preston Smith and Betty's Girls' Choir, Lake City Presbyterian Church, 7:30pm
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DARLINGTON 1.5 SEBGA Concerts, Darlington Music Hall, 4-8pm 1.11 Needle Nuts, Darlington Branch Library, 10am
HAPPY
NEW YEAR! MAY THIS NEW YEAR BE THE YEAR ALL YOUR DREAMS TURN INTO REALITY AND ALL YOUR EFFORTS INTO ACHIEVEMENTS. January 2019
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BUSINESS
Mercy Medicine Free Clinic Celebrates 25 Years
Medicine with a 'Heaping Dose of Christian Love
story by John Elwood Owens, MD, JD
Throughout the entire world, but particularly in the Western Hemisphere, the approaching end of the calendar year usually means three things to most people: firstly, a Thanksgiving feast with family and friends to reflect on our many blessings from God. Secondly, we celebrate a most serious time of reflection and giving with our wonderful and beautiful Christmas season, remembering God's greatest gift to the world, that being His only begotten Son Jesus Christ. And, to wrap things up, we enjoy a New Year's celebration making resolutions which we seldom keep past the first month or two in the new year. But all in all, it is a wonderful time to thank God for our many blessings, reaffirm our Christian beliefs, and prepare for a new year of hope, love, and prosperity. As 2018 comes to a close, and 2019 is knocking at the door, we at Mercy Medicine Free Clinic (MMFC) are preparing to celebrate our silver anniversary (25 years) of giving free health care to the needy people of Florence and Williamsburg county. Many patients who have come to MMFC for their health care needs give thanks for its existence in the greater Florence community, learn and appreciate the act of Christian love, and find hope and promise to better health in the ensuing year. In 1994, a group of devoted Christian doctors, nurses, and health care professionals saw the unselfish need to care for people in the community who had no reliable health care due to lack of status, funds, mobility, indifference, and perhaps discrimination. Dr's. H. Allen, Jr, N.B. Baroody, J. Thomson, M. Hicks, and J. Owen, along with several excellent nursing staff, formulated the beginnings of the MMFC with the avowed purpose of "free health care (and pharmaceuticals) given under the guidance and devotion to Christian principles." Over the last (soon-to-be) 25 years, the location, the providers, and the
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structure have undergone inevitable change, while the basic principles and by-laws have remained the same. Those people who qualify include the poor, the working poor, the uninsured, the homeless, and the law offenders who are soon to be released. While they are at MMFC, they are our patients and get prompt medical attention, diagnosis, additional testing from allied community health providers/hospitals and medical facilities, and life saving medications. MMFC works very closely with McLeod Regional Medical Center and Carolina Hospital System, and is involved with Francis Marion University's Department of Nursing to help train future health care professionals. MMFC is guided by a dedicated Board of community professionals who help steer its course to the everchanging demands of health care in the United States. MMFC has an administrative staff for business purposes and eligibility requirements; an office staff who organizes patient visits and follow ups; a nursing staff who register and work up the patients for their visits, and a health care provider staff who makes diagnoses and prescribes healing medications. The common denominator of all these personnel is that they all help deliver excellent health care with Christian love. They all work for reduced salaries, often without benefits, because they love to help and serve the poor. It is a part of their Christian principles and duties. As we at MMFC get ready to celebrate our Silver Anniversary in 2019, our staff believes in giving to our patients and our community. 2018 is ending on a proverbial high note of excellent health care and a big dose of Christian love. In the famous movie Mary Poppins there was a song entitled: A Spoonful of Sugar Helps the Medicine Go Down. I would like to borrow that phrase from the movie, and say - relative to Mercy Medicine Free Clinic - a generous spoonful of Christian love helps patients at MMFC achieve better health. It has been and will continue to be our unselfish mission at MMFC to dispense excellent health care to our needy patients with a generous serving of Christian love and caring.
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BUSINESS
Kathleen Dew Photography
decisions, decisions...
600 Pamplico Hwy, Florence • 843.229.9784 36
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coffee lingo
explained by Lula's Baristas
Have you ever wandered into a local coffee shop and stood staring at the chalkboard menu thinking, “How in the world do I choose?” We certainly have, many times! It’s become routine to just say I’ll have what she’s having and wish for the best. Starting today, we vow to educate ourselves in the coffee lingo and order in confidence. The baristas at Lula’s Coffee Co. shared inside scoop on how to make our coffee purchase less stressful and more enjoyable.
Q&A WITH LULA’S COFFEE CO. BARISTA TEAM
First off, tell us a bit about the traditional drinks you’ll find at a coffee shop. ESPRESSO - Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee. Small, strong “shots” are made through an intense extraction process- quickly forcing water through finely ground coffee beans. If you like strong coffee, you may enjoy having an espresso on its own. Or if you’re looking for a little caffeine boost, you can add a shot of espresso to your favorite coffee beverage. AMERICANO - An Americano is espresso that has been poured over, or been diluted with hot water. It is similar to a traditional brewed cup of coffee, but has a different flavor due to the difference in the extraction process. LATTE - A caffé latte, or “latte” for short, is an espresso based drink that is topped off with steamed milk and a layer of creamy, smooth foam called micro-foam. CAPPUCCINO - A cappuccino is similar to a latte. However, the cappuccino is traditionally a drink of thirds… equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. MACCHIATO - Essentially, a macchiato is made the same way as a latte but in a different order. In Italian, it literally means “stained” or “spotted”, which refers to the method of preparation wherein the milk is "stained" by the addition of espresso. MOCHA - A cafe mocha is made with chocolate, espresso, steamed milk, and is often topped with whip cream and chocolate drizzle. Beyond the traditional chocolate based mocha, we also have the option for a white chocolate mocha. Warning: once you try it, you may be hooked!
Tell us about the different flavors that can be added to coffee and what flavor goes best with what. At Lula’s we have about 30 different flavors that can be added to any drink. This may include hot or cold espresso beverages, brewed coffee of the hot or cold variety, any of our frozen beverages or even our teas. Some flavors are a match made in heaven (peppermint and mocha or vanilla and hazelnut) while others might be best left to the wild and daring (banana, cayenne, or lavender anyone?). The best thing to know is that our knowledgeable baristas will be able to guide you to the perfect beverage based on your flavor preference.
Which drinks can be iced or served cold? While we are still a few months away from those hot summer days, there is a wide variety of options for a cold refreshing beverage. You can get any espresso based beverage served over ice, try a frappe blended beverage, get a fruit smoothie, cool down with an iced tea, or try the smooth and refreshing taste of our cold brew which is a customer favorite!
What options are available to make a drink with less sugar, or lower calories? If you’re setting some New Year’s resolutions while still trying to get that motivation to wake up in the morning, we offer four (4) sugar-free flavor options; vanilla, hazelnut, caramel and white chocolate, as well as many alternatives to whole milk for a low calorie treat. Those options include nonfat milk, almond milk, and soy milk.
What’s the best option for regular coffee drinkers that want to try something new? If you’re looking for a special treat while you’re meeting with friends or getting out to support your local non-profit coffee shop like Lula’s, our baristas can help you make the right selection! And if it doesn’t taste just right, we will make sure you find the drink that is perfect for you. Our suggestion: a flavored latte is a rich and creamy treat with just the right balance of coffee (and caffeine) and sweetness to make your day extra special. January 2019
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LIFESTYLE
a m a R O s s e n t i F story by Ashley Elvington
with SCOTT GARNER
Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Scott Garner grew up in a household compromised of tremendous love. Things took a tragic turn, however, when Scott was 16 years old. After witnessing his father pass away at the young age of 46, Scott’s life was changed forever. “Being the youngest of three children and witnessing him pass really got to me. Little did I know at the time, however, just how much the impact of my father’s love would guide me later on as a single father and a grandfather helping raise twins.” Today, Scott is the proud single father of three children – Amber, Taylor, and Tanner – and the loving grandfather of seven month old twins Peyton and Harper. As in the days of his childhood with his own father, Scott has raised a household full of unconditional love.
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Before the days of fatherhood, however, Scott developed a passion for staying active. At a young age, he grew to love sports, particularly baseball, football, basketball, tennis, and swimming. He also enjoyed weightlifting and running, and both are still a part of his life today. “I am an extremely health-oriented person. A daily routine for me is to get up at 4:30 a.m. and head straight to the one of three gyms of which I am a member. My workouts range from one and a half to two hours long, non-stop. I take a supplement called Isagenix, and I only eat healthy food and drink water all day. At the ripe ole’ age of 55, I have never felt better!” If you ask Scott what the reason behind this journey to better health is, the answer is simple. “The reason I do what I do is mainly for my family. I remember how it affected me to lose my father at such a young age. That being said, I never miss a day of working out. It helps me focus, have more energy, feel better about myself, push myself, and set a good example for my children and employees.” One of his daughters and his grandkids often join him during his workouts, as Scott can be seen jogging with Peyton and Harper in their stroller. “I love to spend time with Peyton and Harper. The Rail Trail here in Florence is a favorite spot for us to go walking and running. They love it! The faster, the better! Rain, cold, or shine…they light up when we get there. I believe this helps them in many ways. Seeing their granddad and mother push and sweat helps them know that exercise is a large part of our life. We got caught in the rain recently and I was concerned they might cry; instead, they started looking up as the rain hit their faces and both started smiling and laughing. I see this as ‘toughing them up’ at an early age.” When Scott isn’t hitting the pavement or one of his favorite gyms, he can be found at his automotive business, Autorama. Scott entered this career field in 1989 while he was in Georgia. He eventually relocated here to Florence at a local dealership. After his 20 year career ended abruptly and unexpectedly, Scott received a call from a close friend who suggested he come back to Georgia and open his own automotive business. Scott was torn at first, but he knew he needed to talk to his children about it before making a final decision. His children loved being in Florence, as it felt like home to them. Scott felt the same, not ready to say goodbye to his beloved city. Scott decided to look for property here and the rest is history!
At AutoRama, Scott and his team offer lower mile vehicles in the form of Lexus, Mercedes, BMW, and Infiniti. They also have bank financing for both good and bad credit, as well as warranties and gap insurance. All cars come with a three-month, 4,500 mile warranty. If there is a certain car you want that Scott doesn’t have on the lot, it’s no problem for him to utilize a locating service to find the car you’ve been dreaming of owning. “We offer everything a big store offers with a fun, family friendly environment!” AutoRama is also a family affair. Scott’s son Tanner and Scott’s partner’s son Drew also work there. Peyton and Harper also make weekly appearances, thanks to the nursery at AutoRama, and the family dog Samantha visits to entertain customers. “She’s the gentlest German Shepherd around!” Scott loves having his family around the business, as it helps make the work week even more enjoyable. Scott concludes, “Purchasing a car at the beginning of the New Year is a good idea. It’s a great time for a consumer to buy, as dealers want a quick start to a new year. Everyone has New Year’s resolutions – get your body in shape and get a new vehicle to motivate yourself even more to be more successful.” It starts with making that first step! So if you’re looking for a new ride in the New Year, stop on by AutoRama and don’t be afraid to bring the kids with you for an experience to help kick start a wonderful new year.
Auto-Rama of Florence 1310 S Cashua Dr, Florence, SC 843.673.9766 www.autoromaflorence.com
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LIFESTYLE
our Y n O n o tt u B t e s e R Hitting The
on! i t u l o s e R ’s r a e Y New
story by Karla Stance
If you haven’t already started on your New Year’s resolution, I’m guessing you have at least already brainstormed a few ideas and accomplishments you have in mind for 2019. According to Statistic Brain Research Institute, the top five New Year’s resolutions for 2017 revolved around losing weight/healthier eating, self-improvement, making better financial decisions, participating in more exciting things, and to quit smoking. However, it can be discouraging to know that only 9.2 percent of us will actually achieve a New Year’s resolution. It is easy to fall off track once we get back into the swing of our daily routine after the holiday season. No matter what your goal may be, it clearly meant something to you, or you wouldn’t have marked the new year by thinking about it. Resolutions are still a symbol of hope and happiness for a new year, no matter when you start! If it’s a few days, weeks, or even months after the first of January, know that it’s not too late. The best thing to do is to forget the delay or any related sense of failure and get motivated to start immediately! Wipe the slate clean and make sure your goals are realistic and attainable, setting a mental pathway for success. Usually, the reason many people fail relates back to an internal battle which creates a barrier, so stop overthinking. Goals, no matter what they may be, should also be measurable, or else you will never know what you have achieved. Develop a timeline that includes short-term goals, so you can focus on progress versus an overall outcome. Start by taking it slow and easing into new habits, which
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will eventually lead to a new lifestyle. Know that you may not see immediate rewards, especially right after the stressful holiday season of over eating, spending, and relaxation. If your goals are related to fitness or weight loss, find apps to help you stay on track, document weighins and measurements. If you’re looking to save money, calculate how much you spend, on average, each month eating out. Use Pinterest to find simple and tasty packed lunches as a guide that you can make. If you’re looking for more adventure, research activities and keep a bucket list, adding activities to your calendar in advance as a plan. Research your goal and find resources to help you reach it. Lastly, it can be hard to stay motivated and committed, but finding a friend that has similar goals as you can be helpful. If you can hold each other accountable or even just chat about your resolutions, it will help with encouragement to stay on track. The fear of letting someone else down can motivate you to succeed. If you are late getting started, make a mistake, or get off track, don’t throw in the towel just yet. Change doesn’t have to start on January 1st. You have plenty of time left in the year. It is important to develop your New Year’s resolution and achieve goals for yourself to make 2019 the best year yet. Before you start, it is better to understand why you desire the particular change in the first place. There’s usually a bigger, more meaningful purpose behind a New Year’s resolution. Now is the time. So, hit the reset button and get to work!
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AROUND TOWN: BULLIES 2 THE RESCUE 5K
Bullies 2 the Rescue 5k The Bullies 2 the Rescue held December 8th was a fun time for all. Runners had an opportunity to earn custom medals while running with their furry friends. The event was held for runners, walkers, families and pets! After finishing the race, runners enjoyed delicious treats, warm coffee, bulldog kisses, and had an opportunity to meet adoptable bulldogs.
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BUCKET LIST
ANGEL OAK TREE The Angel Oak Tree located on Johns Island just outside of Charleston is estimated to be more than 1,500 years old and is known today as an impressive landmark in the Lowcountry of SC. Live oaks are typically known to only grow out rather than upwards, but the Angel Oak’s long history has allowed it to uniquely grow both out and up. The live oak has a height of more than 65 feet, a circumference of 25 feet, a diameter spread of 160 feet, and covers about 17,100 square feet of ground. Some of its large and heavy limbs even drop to the ground, something which is only universal among the oldest living oaks. The majestic spread, strength, and beauty of the tree make it a must-see for anyone visiting the Charleston, SC area! Historical records trace the ownership of the tree and the land on which it stands to 1717 when it was given to Abraham Waight as part of a land grant. Mr. Waight was a wealthy man who owned several plantations. The tree stayed in that family for four generations. Angel Oak acquired its name from the Angel family, descendants of Abraham Waight. In 1991, the tree became the property of the City of Charleston. The Angel Oak Tree is thought to be one of the oldest trees and living things in the country. It has survived rough weather conditions and human interference. If you are taking a trip to Kiawah Island or Seabrook Islands, it is likely you will drive within a few hundred feet of the Angel Oak Tree, making it a worthy detour. Seeing the impressive live oak tree should be at the top of your to-do list, as it costs nothing to visit. Though located on Johns Island, the tree has come to symbolize Charleston. The Angel Oak Tree’s impressive age and natural beauty are sure to leave you in awe!
THE ANGEL OAK TREE IS LOCATED AT ANGEL OAK PARK AT 3688 ANGEL OAK RD. ON JOHNS ISLAND, JUST 12 MILES FROM DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON. 46
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Bucket List
The Lowcountry of SC
Did You Know?
Fun Fact about Rainbow Row, an iconic site in Charleston.
After the Civil War and until the early 1900s, Rainbow Row was considered a slum and was a very run-down area of Charleston. A woman named Dorothy Porcher Legge invested in homes 99 through 101. To improve them, she painted them a light shade of pastel pink. Others in the area began following in her footsteps by painting their houses beautiful pastel colors to improve the overall appearance of the neighborhood. There is conflicting reasoning behind the colors, though some believe the light colors helped keep the interior of the houses cooler while some believe that the hues were used to capture the attention of drunk sailors who might not have otherwise been able to find their way home. Another theory is that the hues were the merchants’ way of indicating what types of items they sold there. To date, there are around 36.8K posts tagged with #rainbowrow on Instagram!
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AROUND TOWN: 2ND ANNUAL WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM
Women’s Leadership Symposium Positive Change on your Professional Path,” the Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce held their 2nd Women’s Leadership Symposium on December 7. The keynote speaker was newly-retired South Carolina President of AT&T, Pamela Lackey. The chamber also presented her with the Chrysalis Award. The 2018 Woman of Achievement award was presented to Rudell DuBose of the Darlington County School District.
For more information on this event, contact
14 N 5th St, Hartsville, SC (843) 332-6401 | hartsvillechamber.org
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LIFESTYLE
Hulon Jewelers
325 N Main St, Marion
Minnie's Giftique
142 E Carolina Ave, Hartsville
MAKE
TIME FOR WHAT'S IMPORTANT THIS NEW YEAR
Fisher Jewelers & Silversmith 1615 W Palmetto St, Florence
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AROUND TOWN: DOWNTOWN CHRISTMAS MAGIC
Downtown
Christmas Magic
Ed and Christie Henderson
Downtown Florence held its first annual Downtown Christmas Magic celebration on Friday, December 7 on the 100 block of W. Evans Street! Snow was in the forecast and folks were invited to bring their families and little ones out to enjoy Downtown Florence’s kick off of the holiday season with free hot cocoa and s’mores stations, live holiday entertainment, ice skating, ugly sweater contest, decorated downtown storefronts, the Jingle and Mingle kids area filled with holiday crafts and games, a meet and greet with Santa Claus, holiday gift market and gift wrapping station, holiday movies, and extended shopping hours with downtown merchants!
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LIFESTYLE
Book Suggestions To purchase these January reads, visit your local book store!
Hollis
B. Brown, MD
“Have you ever believed that you aren’t good enough? That you’re not thin enough? That you’re unlovable? That you’re a bad mom? Have you ever believed that you deserve to be treated badly? That you’ll never amount to anything? All lies.” The beginning of the year is a great time to begin working on ourselves. This month, Burry Bookstore suggested Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. With wry wit and hard-earned wisdom, popular online personality and founder of TheChicSite.com Rachel Hollis helps readers break free from the lies keeping them from the joy-filled and exuberant lives they are meant to live. (www.girlwashyourface.com)
RECOMMENDED BY
Burry Bookstore Walls of Books "WHERE DREAMS GROW WINGS"
130 W Carolina Ave • Hartsville, SC 843-332-2511
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Every day we experience the uncertainty, risks, and emotional exposure that define what it means to be vulnerable, or to dare greatly. Whether the arena is a new relationship, an important meeting, our creative process, or a difficult family conversation, we must find the courage to walk into vulnerability and engage with our whole hearts. In Daring Greatly, Dr. Brown challenges everything we think we know about vulnerability. Based on twelve years of research, she argues that vulnerability is not weakness, but rather our clearest path to courage, engagement, and meaningful connection. The book that Dr. Brown’s many fans have been waiting for, Daring Greatly will spark a new spirit of truth—and trust—in our organizations, families, schools, and communities. (www. goodreads.com)
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HOME
Lentil Soup
Recipe provided by Executive Chef Sherif Elkhyati
118 W Main St, Lake City
Traditional Egyptian soup and a great way to enjoy lentils. Comfort, smooth, creamy with a nice sunny color, healthy with a citrus spicy flavor and quick to make.
INGREDIENTS 3 cups of red lentil
1 large potato, peeled & cut in 1� cubes
3 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tomato, rough cut
1 1/2- 2 qts of chicken broth
1 oz butter, unsalted
1 medium onion, chopped
(can substitute vegetable broth)
2 carrots, chopped
salt & pepper, to taste
2-3 cloves garlic
cumin, to taste
DIRECTIONS
croutons (optional)
In large pot add broth, lentils, onion, potatoes, carrot and garlic. Bring to boil. Lower heat and simmer 20-25 minutes until potatoes are cooked and lentils are tender. Remove from heat. Use blender to blend soup in small batches until smooth. If too thick can thin with broth. Return to pot, add butter, salt, pepper, cumin and lemon juice. Stir well to incorporate flavor and butter is melted. Serve and garnish with croutons. *Soup can be thinned by adding more broth or water for correct texture*
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HOME
CLUTTER CUTTING TIPS FOR THE NEW YEAR Now that the holidays are over, do you find yourself in a panic wondering what to do with all the gifts, holiday décor, and how to clean up the house? It’s important to have a plan to clean and declutter your home so you will feel rejuvenated and can feel a difference in the ease of your daily routine. Whether you plan to take on the task now or later, you will need a strategy in order to not feel overwhelmed. April Benenhaley, owner of April’s Cleaning Service, will be sharing some tips and tricks with us. April Benenhaley worked as an EMT for 20 years. During her days off she would clean for others, something she enjoyed doing that provided her stress relief, but also made the lives of others a little easier and less stressful. As odd as it may sound, April loves to clean! She eventually opened April’s Cleaning Service out of Darlington where she now offers a variety of cleaning services for one’s home, rental property and/or business.
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APRIL’S TIPS & TRICKS FOR CLEANING & DECLUTTERING 1. The hardest part may be to decide where to start. Make a decision and go from one room to the next while staying focused on your overall goal. 2. Decide what items should be tossed or donated. Keep things that have value and let go of those that do not. (This may include clothing or toys one has outgrown, or items there are duplicates of.) If you decide items should be trashed, trash them immediately. Box up the items that you want to donate and return items that you borrowed. While letting
go may sometimes be difficult, it is encouraged to immediately take the trash out and drive to the donation box once cleaning is complete. 3. Organize your belongings and utilize necessary tools and space to help you out. (Stackable bins, shelving, closet space, etc.) Make sure you have appropriate cleaning supplies before getting started. 4. Maintenance is key Don’t let things gather! Put things back in their place. If you haven’t found a purpose for something or used it
within the past 6-months, re-evaluate why you are still keeping it and consider finding it a new home. 5. When packing up holiday décor, consider wrapping lights around a piece of cardboard or a Pringles can so they do not get tangled. Invest in an ornament storage box for safe storage or even place them in egg cartons which can easily be stacked. Place wreaths in hangable garment bags so they are securely contained. Label everything so you can save time next year.
While we may all know how to declutter, organize, and clean, knowing why we need to do it will make it stick. Why do you want to live with less? Why are you making space — what are you making room for in your life? “Get rid of the trash to make room for the treasures.” Give April’s Cleaning Service a call today for a free estimate. 843.206.8087 • Open 24 hours: Mon.-Sat.
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