May 2017 by VIP Magazine

ISSUE 18

MAY CONTENTS 12 All Access The Hoylen Agency, Inc

14 Tax Prep Business World | Elizabeth Campbell, EA

16 Business Spotlight Tthomas Arts

18 Health and Wellness KJ’s Pharmacy

20 Under The Dome Willcox, Buyck & Williams, P.A.

22 In The Head Of Palmetto Realty

24 Agribusiness

26 Serial Success Bruce Boyd | ServiceMaster

29 Cover Story Downtown Florence

40 Happenings Sonoco Home Run 5K & Fun Run

42 Time To Toast 44 Innovate GoHartsville.com

46 Positive Pursuit FCSO Fishing Tournament

48 Florence Community

50 Business Spotlight Dolce Vita Cafe’ and More

52 Tech Savvy Text-Messaging for Better Diabetic Control Mercy Medicine Free Clinic

54 Advocating Healthcare Behavioral Health Care | HopeHealth

56 Health and Wellness Genesis Signature Liposculpting

58 Florence Community Leadership Florence

60 Employee Spotlight First Bank | Charlotte Griffey

Jr. Leadership Florence

Katherine Barnette | Southern Fields

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com Office Manager Tiffany Skipper jtskipp35@gmail.com Advertising Executive Mary Kevin Miller marykevinmiller@gmail.com Creative Design Tuesday Taylor

Contributing Photographers Heather Byrd Bradley Lail Milton Morris Fred Salley Contributing Writers Kim Brauss Mark Buyck Elizabeth Campbell, EA Ashley Elvington Sam Harrelson Ella Lawson Rion McAllister Mike Miller Dr. Edward Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dell, MD,FACOG Jordan Pupa

COVER CONCEPT

Downtown Florence has seen tremendous growth with revitalization and businesses moving to fill store fronts. Ray Reich, Downtown Development Manager, and Hannah Davis, Downtown Development Coordinator, used their skills with a drone to capture city officials, and downtown business owners and employees to grace this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VIP cover. Their creativity allowed for one of our favorite covers yet!

VIP Magazine | May 2017

A LETTER FROM OUR TEAM Take Advantage of Community Events As entrepreneurs and business professionals, we have to take advantage of every chance to mingle within our community and promote our products or services. Fellow professionals love to hear others speak passionately about a new venture or idea. That passion will then attach itself to a listener ultimately becoming a new platform from which to launch your business. It isn’t hard to obtain brand loyalty when you truly and transparently show your own belief in your product or service. Furthermore, when you take the time to attend local events, you are showing an investment and support of your community. This doesn’t go unnoticed. Being a partner of the community impacts a businesses growth greatly. The key to any great business plan is to always stay front-of-mind with your consumers. What better way to do this than by running into your top account at the next Chamber After Hours event? It’s time to take advantage of these unique opportunities to be in the presence of our clients and other like-minded professionals. That way we can determine not only how they can help your business become more successful but also how you can advance their business as well. The Pee Dee area offers a tremendous platform of excited entrepreneurs ready to dive into the next successful thing. Set goals, make contacts and see just how many local professionals you can make an impression on while attending the next community event. You’ll be surprised where one introduction, in an informal setting, can take your business! -TEAM VIP

Serving Florence, Hartsville, Darlington, Marion, Mullins, Lake City and the surrounding areas MAY 2017 | ISSUE 18 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.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

ALL ACCESS

Fred Salley Photography

Pictured Above: Cecile Hoylen and son Billy Hoylen. Right: Billy with daughter Staci Duffee.

The Hoylen Agency, Inc. Following Mother’s Footsteps story by Sam Harrelson

In 1991, Billy Hoylen set out to follow in his mother’s pioneering footsteps in the business of insurance. With 15 years of previous sales and sales management experience, Billy was given the perfect stepping stone to develop his own insurance agency. Over the years The Hoylen Agency has grown and presently has offices in Florence and Lake City. The Hoylen Agency will celebrate their 26th year of serving and providing insurance to the entire Pee Dee this month. Over the years this agency has served thousands of families in South Carolina by providing insurance and financial services to protect the things they have worked hard to build. The Hoylen agencies fully licensed staff is committed and devoted to providing each client with personal attention and service that is unsurpassable to any expectations they may have. “Insurance and a passion for helping others runs in the Hoylen bloodline,” says Billy. His Mother Cecile Hoylen, was no stranger to the world of insurance and she was as successful as she was southern. When Billy was 12, he recalls helping his mother study for her insurance license so that she could become of the first women licensed in South Carolina property and casualty insurance. After years of hard work, dedication and determination, in 1975 Cecile became Insurance Women of the Year. Prior to earning this title Cecile “Cece”, as she was called by many, began 12

VIP Magazine | May 2017

her professional career at the age of 18 working for the Veteran’s Administration in Columbia where she was quickly promoted and then relocated to Washington, D.C. In 1960, Cece began working for Investment Life and Trust Co. in Mullins, South Carolina, resuming her business career. It was until May of 1966 that Cecile Hoylen successfully completed all of South Carolina’s requirements and passed the insurance agent’s examination, resulting in her promotion to Underwriter of Aiken and Company in Florence, SC. With large shoes to fill, Billy and his entire staff have worked hard to build the agency from scratch and maintain an agency that provides the best customer service in the Pee Dee area, just as his mother Cece did. Cece’s granddaughter and Billy’s daughter Staci also has the same passion for helping others and insurance that her grandmother did. After graduation from Francis Marion University in 2007 she sat out to follow in her grandmother’s footsteps and became a third generation insurance agent. This will be Staci’s tenth year as a licensed agent. Staci’s passion is life insurance however she focuses on selling homeowners, auto and life insurance for the entire agency. Although Billy has been selling property, casualty and life insurance since he began his insurance career, his role in the agency has shifted over the years. He now focuses primarily on

maintaining a well balanced portfolio of life, home, auto and commercial insurance for the agency and overseeing his staff along with continuing to write all lines of business. Billy is quick to say the thing that has made the agency successful has been his team. “Our agency has been successful due to my entire staff sharing in our families passion of helping others and protecting the things they work hard to earn. We take the responsibly and challenge of being there for our clients at the time when we are tested seriously, which is in the time of a claim,” Billy says.

“

We have built the agency by making our customers our number one priority by listening to what they want and striving to provide them with the highest quality service possible.

”

Whether this means working with customers faceto-face or keeping up with the changing technology. The Hoylen Agency is up to the task. Billy and his fully licensed staff take pride in knowing that their customers will always be treated as family because of course this is a family business.

Sadly, Cece passed away in February but her legacy continues through Billy & Staci.

Pictured l to r: Susie Thomerson, Mickey Hoylen, Skip Duffee, Staci H. Duffee, Billy, Tricia Rogers and Cindy McIntosh Not Pictured: Evans Godwin, Suzette Welch and Shirley Harrison

THE HOYLEN AGENCY, INC. (843)665-2196 HoylenW@Nationwide.com | www.HoylenInsurance.com May 2017 | VIP Magazine

TAX PREP

Mommies Taking the Business World by Storm story by Elizabeth K. Campbell, EA This month we should not only celebrate Mother’s Day, but we should take time to highlight the huge strides women are making in the business world. I have been seeing a jump in successful female owned businesses over the last several years just on a local level. A lot of them are home based businesses where the overhead is less and women are using Social Media to their advantage. Traditional business start up is expensive. Advertising is expensive. Most home based businesses can be started for less than $500.00, advertising on social media is FREE, collaboration between women in business is much higher than in men and it allows Mommies to get the best of both worlds contributing to the family financially with the freedom of being all that a Mommy can be for her children. This creates the perfect storm. Social media marketing can be done from anywhere and it gives direct access to customers and potential customers while also allowing for easy, one-on-one communication between the parties. Products are easily showcased on social media by using pictures and free app graphics. Even considering a learning curve of these apps, this is much cheaper than hiring someone to do it for you. So now we have very little overhead and nearly free advertising. There is no way to go but up if you believe in your product and are committed to making the business work. Let’s face it; women and men are built very differently. Men want to color in the lines and tend to maintain traditional avenues of promoting their business. Women like to talk, text, and want to know the details. Basically women are more social creatures which makes social media the perfect outlet for them in business. I know some of you are rolling your eyes right now because you have a newsfeed filled up with these home based, women lead businesses BUT did you know that the successful ones are pulling in six figures a year? Do not be so quick to judge. Instead you should applaud that woman for having the ingenuity to start and run a business on mere peanuts. 14

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I cannot leave out traditional business start ups in discussing the increase in women in the business world. Women are finally cashing in on the opportunities available to them – grants, special financing, free networking opportunities, using social media, etcetera. Our financial market has loosened up as well and lower interest rates are more appealing and less scary for a new business start up. Traditionally, women spend about 30% less in business start up than men. It means more time in research but that time pays off on the bottom line. In this case patience equals money. It is estimated that if women continue to start up and grow their businesses at the current rate, they could control up to TWO THIRDS of the wealth in the United States by the year 2030! That is simply amazing! One of my biggest joys in working with local businesses is watching them grow, hit their goals, and keep growing. I want to see all businesses succeed, but you better bet, that between now and 2030, I am going to be keeping a special eye on the female owned businesses to see if that goal is met. Something tells me that it will happen and prove once and for all that Mommies do rule the world!

Elizabeth “Betsy” K. Campbell owns Campbell Accounting Solutions, LLC. Call (843) 662-9700 or email taxinfo@campbellgroupsc.com for your tax solutions.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

TthomasArts story by Kimberly Brauss Nestled in its own sub-divided space, TthomasArts sits near a barber shop at 167 N. Dargan St. specializing in pottery classes, pottery lessons, and abstract art. The ceramics and painting studio, which will celebrate its opening anniversary in August, also hosts The Artisan Shop, a collection of artisan goods from the Pee Dee. The foundation of TthomasArts is a solid one. Not only did owner Tiffany Thomas’ landlord allow them to work with the contractors to up-fit the space for their requirements, but also the Florence native said she comes from a supportive family. The large, creative family system Thomas said she grew up in helped her find her career path. “They were very supportive when I jumped from major to major trying to figure out what my focus should be,” Thomas said. “At the time, I didn’t realize I had a natural talent for art. Professors at FlorenceDarlington Tech(nical College) encouraged me to look into the art program at Francis Marion University.” Thomas transferred to study graphic design but fell in love with clay while taking a ceramics course. “I loved the idea of creating things with my hands,” she said. After Thomas graduated from FMU, she worked a couple years for the Florence County Library before signing the studio lease.

167 N. Dargan St. 843-758-3958 www.tthomasarts.com

TthomasArts

VIP Magazine | May 2017

The minimalist-styled studio is split into three sections. The first section is The Artisan Shop. The second section is the studio space for Thomas and her fiancé, Symon Gibson, also a Francis Marion University graduate. Both have a mutual passion for ceramics. Thomas said it’s the section where most of their time is spent. “It’s a lovely space with a lot of room for teaching classes, private lessons and lounging,” Thomas said. “I mostly sell my work online, so there’s an area in the studio for packaging and shipping supplies. I also hand carve my ceramic pieces in the studio space, paint paintings and work on attaching handles to mugs. Symon uses the space for working on installation artwork and hand building ceramics.” And the back portion of the space houses the kiln and pottery wheels. Gibson designs the window displays for the shop. “I love to watch people react to the window display. Symon has a knack for creating beautiful displays that make people stop to inquire about the shop,” Thomas said. “Being a professional artist has been a rollercoaster of emotions! It’s definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done. The most rewarding thing of all is having a person fall into love with something you’ve created. I love it when someone emails me and says how much they enjoy their mug and they drink from it daily. An artist spends hours crafting a piece of work, waits a couple of days for it to dry, fires it in a kiln, glazes the piece and fires it again. So much time and effort goes into making pottery. That same love and affection isn’t in massed produced items. … I’m so thankful for people who cherish and support makers.”

Ivana Reay-Jones Photography 16

“It’s fun having the opportunity to grow with downtown Florence,” she said.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

KJ’s

Pharamcy Providing love, care and customer interatction at the KJ’s Market in Lake City story by Sam Harrelson Spencer Player, Jane Player, Pam Kirby

In addition to KJ’s Pharmacy’s employees going above and beyond for their patients, they also take pride in giving back to their community.

Jane and Spencer Player have been pharmacists for 35 years. The couple began at the Piggly Wiggly Pharmacy in Lake City along with Pam Kirby, PharmD, who shares the couple’s same passion for their job. While there, a few innovative features were put into place. The office began offering immunizations, durable medical equipment, and diabetes education classes with one of the few Certified Diabetes Educators who are pharmacists that work in a grocery store environment. A few years later, Medication Therapy Management and Diabetes Shoes were added to the list of offered services. After years spent serving Piggly Wiggly Carolina, Jane, Spencer, and Pam decided to make a move when they were offered the opportunity to work with IGA at KJ’s Market in Lake City. Their new location offers an entire room to educate their customers on medications and diabetic lifestyle changes. Jane takes on many roles in KJ’s Pharmacy. Not only is she a Certified Shoe Fitter, but she is also a Certified Diabetes Instructor. As a shoe fitter, Jane fits custom shoes for customers with diabetes since the disease can often complicate the footwear options available. Diabetes Education is something that Jane has been passionate about since her father suffered from the disease and she watched as her mother struggled to make the required changes to help improve his health. Jane works with diabetic patients two times per week for five weeks to educate them on nutrition, what to do if they become ill, what lab values mean, and diseases that are associated with diabetes such as high blood pressure, kidney failure, and eye disease. In addition, Jane offers an expertise class to teach helpful exercises to help lower blood pressure. Another class offered is a medication course intended to give better understanding of the medications used to treat diabetes. For those patients using Medicare, Medical Therapy Management is offered to make sure that patients understand what medications they are taking and that they are compliant with taking their maintenance medication. Every year, to go along with the classes taught, Jane hosts a diabetes event for her patients from the entire 18 year period of hosting classes, and prepares them a “diabetes friendly meal”. At the end of the event, Jane and her family award the patient with the best A1C (the average of blood sugar over the past 6-8 weeks) a $300 check. Patients must bring a lab report to

KJ’s Pharmacy: 240 Kelley St, Lake City | (843) 374-1110 18

VIP Magazine | May 2017

confirm their claims of the best A1C. The event is hosted in memory of Jane’s father who passed away due to Type 2 diabetes and her mother who changed her entire style of cooking to accommodate his disease. Everyone takes on different roles in this pharmacy and everyone enjoys different tasks. Spencer enjoys interacting with the customers and forming relationships. He also gives immunizations and fills prescriptions. Jane loves the customers and the relationships they form; diabetes, Medical Therapy Management, teaching, and fitting shoes are all services that she enjoys providing for her patients. “Every time I teach someone I feel like I am helping my father,” she says. Pam loves the patient population as well, a common theme with these pharmacists. She also enjoys occasionally delivering medications to customers. Customers are very valued at KJ’s Pharmacy. To the team that works there, they are patients that they have had the privilege of forming relationships with and serving for the past 35 years.

Jones, Denise Evans, Pictured L to R: Takeitha Perry, Cynthia Yamekia Robinson and r, Playe cer Spen , Kirby Pam r, Jane Playe

The rest of the staff go above and beyond as well. Acting more as a family than a team, there are 3 certified technicians and 2 pharmacy technicians. They work hard, know the customers by name, and “are a joy to work alongside,” says Jane. Pam Kirby - Pharmacist, Yamekia Robinson Cpht - Lead Tech; Tamekia Perry, Cpht; Denise Evans, Cpht; Cynthia Jones, and Janet Parrott complete this dream team. In addition to KJ’s Pharmacy’s employees going above and beyond for their patients, they also take pride in giving back to their community. In December they participated in two community outreach projects; the technicians not only adopted a family for Christmas to provide gifts and necessities with their own money and efforts, but they also provided help to a family whose house burned in a tragic fire. This pharmacy is clearly a novel that provides services to a small town that needs the love and care so willingly put into every interaction. May 2017 | VIP Magazine

UNDER THE DOME

FREE TRADE in the

State of South Carolina story by Mark W. Buyck, III

There has been much talk in Washington and elsewhere regarding the economic impact of free trade agreements and overall trade policies. Both Senator Bernie Sanders and President Donald Trump made opposition to free trade agreements a centerpiece of their 2016 presidential campaigns. Let’s take a look at the history of free trade in South Carolina and where we stand today. Prior to the Civil War, South Carolina was almost exclusively an agricultural economy. Cotton, tobacco, and rice grown in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia constituted nearly two-thirds of all United States’ exports during that time. Farmers growing those crops relied on manufactured goods from Europe and elsewhere to run their farming operations and households. These farmers resented tariffs on manufactured goods intended to protect northern United States’ manufacturing interests. From the founding of the country through the Civil War, South Carolina was the loudest proponent of free trade among the states. The 1828 Tariff of Abominations was particularly damaging to South Carolina’s economy as the cost of manufactured goods increased while the foreign demand for cotton and other agricultural products shrank. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice-President in 1828 and was a vocal opponent of tariffs. Calhoun’s position was in contrast to President Andrew Jackson who generally supported tariffs. Following the passage of the 1828 Tariff, Calhoun wrote “Exposition and Protest”. In it, he argued that the Tariff was unconstitutional

because it favored manufacturing over agriculture. He also argued that individual states had the right to veto any federal law which a state believed to be unconstitutional, a position known as nullification. Calhoun’s nullification theory was hotly debated nationally and within South Carolina. In 1832, Congress and President Jackson revised the 1828 Tariff and reduced some of the rates that were particularly troublesome in the south. Despite this gesture, the South Carolina General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to call a Nullification Convention which met in November 1832. The Convention voted to declare the 1828 and 1832 Tariffs unconstitutional and unenforceable within the State. Governor Robert Hayne established a militia of 2,000 cavalry and 25,000 infantry men to protect the State in the event the Federal government refused to recognize the State’s desires. On December 10, 1832, President Jackson issued a “Proclamation to the People of South Carolina.” In it, he declared the State’s position an “impractical absurdity” and “a metaphysical subtlety, in pursuit of an impractical theory.” The events of 1832 very nearly resulted in military conflict between the states. The Congress responded quickly to the crisis and passed the Compromise Tariff of 1833. The South Carolina General Assembly then met on March 11, 1833 and repealed the Nullification Ordinance, but maintained that they might pursue nullification in the future.

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.

willcoxlaw.com

VIP Magazine | May 2017

248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.662.3258 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 | Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.650.6777

In the century following the Civil War, manufacturing operations increased dramatically in South Carolina. Textile manufacturers were particularly drawn to South Carolina, as its prevailing wages were lower than those found in the northern states. South Carolina’s representatives in Congress were very protective of the textile industry and supported high tariffs for imported goods, particularly textiles. Textile industry employment in South Carolina peaked in the late 1960’s – early 1970’s at nearly one-quarter of a million employees. The industry had fierce defenders in Congress, particularly South Carolina’s Fritz Hollings. In spite of tariff protections and other institutional advantages, textile industry employment in the State is now approximately 25,000 jobs. The same factors which made South Carolina appealing to New England manufacturers over 100 years ago, low wages and no unions, have enticed today’s manufacturers to move offshore. Despite the loss of textile employment, overall employment in the State has boomed since the demise of the politically favored textile industry. South Carolina has developed an export economy and business environment conducive to foreign investment. South Carolina is the top ranked state in export sales for completed passengers vehicles, ball and roller bearings and parts, and tires. $31.3 billion worth of goods were exported from South Carolina in 2016. Although we are familiar with BMW, Michelin, Boeing, and General Electric as companies who depend on exports to keep South Carolinians employed, the South Carolina Department of Commerce estimates that 85% of South Carolina’s exporters of goods are small and medium sized businesses. The top 5 exports from the State are vehicles, aircraft, machinery, rubber, and electrical machinery. The top 5 export markets are China, Germany, Canada, UK, and Mexico. South Carolina has demonstrated that embracing free trade and foreign exports can bring greater prosperity to her people.

Mark W. Buyck, III Concentrating in Banking, Business, Civil and Business Litigation and Appeals, Contracts, Employment, Government, Real Estate

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

IN THE HEAD OF

Palmetto Realty Gaining a Well-deserved Reputation with Buyers and Sellers story by Rion McAllister

The job of a real estate broker is rarely complete. They are constantly strategizing new ways to assist in their agents growth by helping people move into their dream homes. Sandy Gaskins, Broker Owner of Palmetto Realty, began her career in education, retiring from Darlington County School District in 2002. Sandy couldn’t sit still for long, by September of 2002 she began her second career in real estate working for Caldwell Banker Gandy-Tiller. During her 15 years in real estate, Sandy has worked for a couple of different companies but always desired to be self employed so that she could better negotiate with customers. In 2017, Sandy joined the world of entrepreneurs in beginning her new journey as the business owner of Palmetto Realty. Sherri Goode, Realtor®, has worked on and off with Sandy for several years and values her code of ethics; it was a natural decision for her to follow Sandy at Palmetto Realty. Sherri is originally from Ohio; she and her husband moved to Hartsville in 1998 for a job opportunity with Sonoco. Being a transplant to the area, Sherri enjoys selling the Pee Dee to new residents. She’s able to offer a unique and relatable perspective to home buyers. “I’m always proud to introduce people who are moving here to our town and all it has to offer,” she says. Angie Stanley, who has known Sandy for over 20 years and has worked with her as well, soon followed, joining the team in November of 2016 as Office Manager. Sandy’s granddaughter, Allison Shaw, works as Office Assistant to the group. Her generosity to assisting the team brings them full circle. The team is proud of their relationship, “We laugh a lot, love a lot and are supportive of each other in every way.” Sherri brags on her boss/friend by saying, “It’s nice to be able to get direction from an in-house Broker that cares.” Sandy refers to her employees as an extension of her 22

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Sherri Goode, Sandy Gaskins

and Angie Stanley

family. As Broker, and former educator, she enjoys educating her staff on how to improve customer relationships by offering them the best products on the market in a timely and efficient manor. As owner of a real estate company, Sandy mostly enjoys having the opportunity to negotiate commissions for clients. In previous positions, she would have to risk losing the listing if management wouldn’t allow the negotiations. Being able to follow her own guidelines has allowed her to do what she loves most, put people in homes. “Putting someone in a house that never thought they could own a house is why I do this,” says Sandy. “It’s my goal to make buying or selling a home as stress free as possible. I like to form a lasting relationship with my clients.” Palmetto Realty has gained a well-deserved reputation in selling homes, land and commercial properties in the Pee Dee. Their longevity comes from a great deal of buyers and sellers, and recommendations from others that result in repeat and referral business. Together, Sandy, Sherri and Angie, are determined to take Palmetto Realty’s real estate services to the next level.

Palmetto Realty welcomes Cynthia Johnson to the staff!

Selling Dream Homes, Land and Commerical Properties

910 Deer Run, Hartsville $299,999 4bd/3.5ba/3500sqft/4.13ac

1306 Salem Rd, Hartsville $329,900 5bd/3ba/3304sqft/.77ac

1365 Long Leaf Dr, Hartsville $319,000 3bd/2.5ba/2636sqft/1.41ac

Contact Palmetto Realty: 123 W Home Ave, Hartsville | 843.917.0274 scpalmettorealty.com

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

AGRIBUSINESS

Katherine Barnette The Spirit of an Entrepreneur story by Kim Brauss Katherine Barnette grew up globetrotting. In 29 years, she’s lived in 22 places and 6 countries. “But we always come back home to South Carolina to see family,” Barnette said. While she grew up on the move, her entrepreneurial spirit matched her in step. “I founded my freelance company when I was in high school, but the entrepreneur in me has been around for a while. I made my first sale when I was in kindergarten. I made hand sewn and beaded Christmas ornaments and sold them at a craft show with my mom. I come by it honestly, I guess!” By high school, Barnette began a side business that would later become her first true attempt at being an entrepreneur. “When I was in sixth grade, my dad gave me his old Chinon 35mm camera from college and I haven’t put it down since. In high school, I was one of the first to buy a digital SLR camera and photographed sporting events for local high schools. I had a webpage where people could purchase their child’s photos, and it was a great way to make money while going to school.” “I love taking a person’s idea or concept and bringing it to life in visual form,” she said. While photography was a first love, it was the Intro to Graphic Design class in college that she found her passion. “Graphic design combines all of the things I love: problem solving, design, typography, photography and technology,” she said. Barnette started freelance designing in college to build her portfolio for graduation. “I re-branded, and Von Diesel Design was born.” “A lot of people have asked me about the name, Von Diesel Design. My friends have always called me Kat Von D. I was the only girl during Freshman Move In who would carry the heavy stuff, like refrigerators, up the stairs. It’s a tradition at FMU that current students, faculty, staff and alumni help freshman move in. After coming down the stairs from having carried up the third mini fridge of the morning, my friend said: ‘Dude, she’s like Vin Diesel.’ The other looked up and said: ‘Nah, she’s Kat Von Diesel!’ I spent the next three years at FMU being called Kat Von Diesel, so there’s a bit of nostalgia to the name.”  24

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Von Diesel Design has grown and changed as Barnette’s skills and passions have developed. She creates a variety of concepts involving design from book covers, banners, event decor and photography, wedding invitations, magazine layout, ads, billboards, illustration, T-shirt design to dabbling in interior design. “It’s another reason I love being a designer. I never do the same thing each day,” she said smiling. It was in college that Barnette began her next entrepreneurial venture. She was fishing in the pond with her sister when they began talking about their love of soaps and lotions. But they lamented how they couldn’t use them because of their sensitive skin. “I began to wonder why bath products couldn’t be made organically. I knew there had to be an answer. The second we got back home, I started researching herbs and essential oils for skincare, jotted down combos we liked, and pulled my journal out to sketch ideas. I began making small batches of soaps and scrubs. My dad would give them away as gifts to his clients and soon they were calling him asking for more.” And so the journey continued. Initially Barnette encompassed the new soap company under the Von Diesel brand. During graduate school she used her company as her marketing project and evaluated it “top to bottom.” “My research pointed to splitting out my hand-crafted bath products into their own company and Southern Fields Soap Company was born in July of 2016,” she said.  “When I was talking about names for my new company last summer with my mom, I was describing what things resonated with me: being a Southern girl, local farms,

sustainability, organic living, walking through the fields with Pop-Pop. I looked up and said: ‘Southern Fields.’ We immediately knew that was it,” Barnette said. “Being a graphic designer brought another level of fun to bringing Southern Fields to life. I love branding and being able to create my logo and packaging was insanely fun. I was scribbling on napkins during meals, drawing out designs in the sand and asking a million questions to anyone who would listen. It was a crazy couple of days before I finally hit a design that resonated,” Barnette said. Today, Barnette is a digital and print media designer by day and graduating with her Master of Business of Administration from Francis Marion University in May. Barnette’s passion for her work has yielded two side businesses along with her full-time job. Products, which are organic, vegan, locally sourced, are sold online, locally in downtown Florence at The Artisan Shop, and at festivals. Social media gives insight to what Barnette is creating. “I don’t think people really understand how much heart and love small business owners put into their work. It’s a struggle some weeks to balance work, life, staying healthy, dating, and graduate school. You definitely have to be passionate about what you’re doing and be willing to sacrifice things,” she said What’s more: Starting in May, the Southern Fields crew is moving to the Pee Dee State Farmers Market. Shoppers will get to meet the whole #SFSoapCo crew at the market. It will allow a space to call home for the summer, and they’re excited to be offering more shopping hours for their Southern Fields friends!

To learn more about Southern Fields, visit: www.southernfieldsc.com Instagram and Facebook @SouthernFieldsc

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

SERIAL SUCCESS

Honor God in all you do. Help people develop. Excel with customers. Grow profitably.

Bruce Boyd

ServiceMaster

fire and water restoration story by Heather Page

Bruce Boyd began his career with ServicesMaster at an entry level position in Charleston shortly after obtaining a degree in Business Administration from the College of Charleston. He worked as a coordinator and managed schedules of area technicians. His work ethic paid off and after a few months Bruce was offered the Fire Division Manager position. After six years with the company, (and starting a family with his wife, Crystal) Bruce decided it was time for a challenge. He searched the Florence market and found that it was under-served by other restoration companies. In the fall of 2011, he made the decision to open ServiceMaster Fire & Water Restoration in Florence. “It’s definitely one of the most challenging and rewarding decisions I have ever made,” Bruce says. Having previously worked for a very successful franchisee, and having a hand in helping that business grow, Bruce gained the tools needed to be successful on his own. After 4 short years, the Florence location was booming so Bruce decided to expand the operations by acquiring a Richland and Lexington county franchise; he opened the second location in Columbia by the summer of 2015. With two franchises to operate, Bruce’s job description has evolved. “In the beginning, it was just me, one vehicle and a few pieces of drying equipment. I did everything from demolition to sales, and everything in between.” Today, Bruce manages multiple employees in both offices, runs 10 vehicles, and operates hundreds of pieces of drying equipment. “Most of my time is spent on large loss management, estimating, financial management, employee management, growth strategies, problem resolution, and lots of back and forth between the two offices. Occasionally, I still get to get my hands dirty while working alongside my field staff, when it’s all hands on deck.”

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Some of the field work includes full service disaster restoring, cleaning up the mess left by a burst pipe in homes, or cleaning the aftermath of a devastating fire. Bruce and his team manage the process and help customers navigate the overwhelming task of getting things back to normal. Serving both residential and commercial customers, they work around the clock to get families back into homes and businesses back to operating. “In addition to emergency services, we offer full service construction for our customers requiring additional repairs,” says Bruce. They can repair a single room of carpet or reframe a burned roof, whatever meets the needs of their customers. ServiceMaster also offers residential and commercial carpet cleaning and floor maintenance. As their carpet cleaning competitors typically steam detergent into carpet and vacuum it out which can leave a heavy amount of detergent in the carpet, ServiceMaster pre-sprays detergent and rinses carpet clean. This process keeps the carpet cleaner much longer and extends the life of the carpet. Bruce has to give much credit to his amazing team. His wife Crystal was his first employee and still helps out with daily office needs when she’s not managing their two boys, Walker (10) and Austin (8). The rest of the team includes: Byron Hamlin - Mitigation Manager; Tyrone State - Field Technician; Rachel Windham - Collections and Customer Service Manager; Lanotta Gainey - Administrator; Michael Parris - Columbia Lead Technician; Shannon Baker Marketing Manger, Dana Peoples - Field Technician, Dennis Trottier - Field Technician, and Ethan Allen - Field Technician. This team is prepared for any challenge thrown their way! “Whether it’s cleaning your carpet, steaming your tile and grout, waxing your vinyl type floors, or cleaning your upholstery, we have you covered. Remember, ‘It’s not clean unless it’s ServiceMaster Clean.’”

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

DOWNTOWN FLORENCE

COVER STORY

2011

2017

Downtown Florence has seen tremendous growth over the past five years and development continues pushing full forward into the future with new restaurants, downtown living options, retail shops, and cultural amenities. May 2017 | VIP Magazine

COVER STORY

REBRANDING STRATEGY In recent years, the concerns about the health and vitality of Downtown Florence has shifted drastically. No longer is there a concern, but passion to continue seeing the growth and camaraderie from locals and business owners. Since 2011, 22 downtown properties have been transformed as a result of facade programs and maintenance and appearance codes, $960,000 in facade and redevelopment grant funding has been awarded to downtown business owners, and over $6 million has been awarded in incentives to major projects. Downtown Florence has seen over $130 million in public and private investments. In 2017 alone, $84 million will be invested in downtown expansions.

Groups of committed individuals have worked together to define a vision for downtown and with that comes a complete rebranding strategy. In April, city officials and Florence Downtown Development Corporation (FDDC) Board of Directors agreed upon a new city logo, as well as branding vision and mission statements with focuses on growth and prosperity. The tagline “FULL LIFE. FULL FORWARD.” sets the tone for what lies ahead for the City of Florence. With key objectives identified, the need to place an assertive and strong emphasis on the revitalization and redevelopment of downtown has been implemented into the success of Florence’s community.

Mission: We are a beacon of progress. Our economy and social diversity offer boundless opportunities and enormous assets.

Vision: To be a model community for the growth and prosperity of the State of South Carolina and the Southeast.

Values: PROGRESS. We take pride in our accomplishments, and we are dedicated to the future progress of our community. INVESTMENT. Our community investment is about people. We believe in providing exceptional educational opportunities, superior healthcare services, and a culture and environment that promote a quality of life for everyone. COMMUNITY. We are a true community. A place where friendship and a genuine welcoming attitude create an enjoyable social environment and define our fullness of life.

Brand Position: A beacon of progress, Florence is one of South Carolina’s most future-oriented communities. We are focused on being a model for growth and prosperity while ensuring a quality of life that is supported by exceptional education opportunities, superior healthcare services, and an enjoyable social environment. Progress, investment, and a strong sense of community define Florence - a place full of life.

VIP Magazine | May 2017

NTS

EVE F O R A D N CALE May 4

Bone-E-Fit: James Allen Plaza – Ticketed Fundraiser | 5-10 p.m. (FAHS) The Bone-E-Fit was organized in order to raise money for a new shelter for the FAHS. The inaugural event was held on May 3, 2007. By February of 2012, enough funds were raised and the shelter was moved to it’s current location on McCurdy Road. The Bone-E-Fit continues to raise money to provide medical care for the shelter’s animals.

May 5

Cinco de Mayo: 100 block of S. Dargan – Public Street Festival | 5-9 p.m. Fiesta fun for a great cause in Downtown Florence! Join the Greater Florence Habitat for Humanity for live music, kid’s fun zone and chihuahua racing! With free admission, it’s a great day to dress up for a costume contest and taste some cultural foods!

June 10

Cruisin’ Downtown Flo: S. Dargan & Cheves Streets – Public Street Festival | 3-8 p.m. Hosted by Downtown Florence, Eastern SC Mustang Club, and Black Jack Harley Davidson, this multi-block car show is sure to delight car enthusiasts young and old. Come out and enjoy live music from two bands, great food, and of course, those classic cars, trucks, and bikes. We’ll be cruisin’ into the evening with entertainment and fun!

October 14

Oktoberfest: 100 block of S. Dargan – Public Street Festival | 5-10 p.m. Come celebrate the best German Food, Beer, and Music in the Pee Dee! The evening’s activities include a dog costume contest, Weenie and Almost a Weenie Dog Races benefitting local animal shelter, Beer Stein Races, Beer Barrel Races, and our ceremonial keg tapping to kick everything off! Don’t forget the array of authentic German food, beer, and fine German wines!

October 20

Chili, Brews, + BBQ: 100 block of S. Dargan – Public Street Festival | 5-10 p.m. Come out for food, fun, brews and live music during the Chamber’s 4th Annual Chili, Brews & BBQ Festival! The festival will take place on S. Dargan Street, between Evans and Cheves Streets and will feature fantastic food, including a wing, BBQ and chili competition, domestic and craft beer selections, live music and a kids’ zone.

October 21

Heart Walk: Downtown Walk | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. We aren’t just walking. We’re Heartwalking! How Can you make a positive difference in the lives of your friends family and co-workers? Join the Heart Walk, start Heartwalking and make the commitment to lead a heart healthy life and become healthy for good. Remember- we’re not only raising funds, we’re raising heartbeats!

November 4

SC Pecan Festival: Downtown – Public Street Festival | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. With over 50,000 in attendance, enjoy the day with us as we host 8 stages of Live Entertainment with over 250 Food & Craft Vendors, Special Art Demonstrations, a Free Kids Zone, Amusement Rides, and Antique Tractor Show, Car Show and Competition, Cook-off Competition, Chalk Art Competition, 10K, 5k, and Half Marathon Races, a Half Metric Century Bike Ride, and much, much more!

November 22

Thanksgiving Eve: James Allen Plaza – Public Concert | 5-9 p.m. (Victors) See old friends and make some new ones at the annual Thanksgiving Eve Rock Party in the James Allen Plaza hosted by Victors. This event is an annual favorite featuring food, drinks, and great live music. It’s the perfect way to kick off a holiday weekend!

Nov. 28-Jan. 3, 2018

Holiday Light + Music Show: Cultural Garden on Dargan - Public Event | Nightly 5-10 p.m. Just in time for the holidays, Florence Downtown Development and the City of Florence have put together a magical synchronized light and holiday music experience located next to Wholly Smokin’ on the 100 block of South Dargan Street in Downtown Florence! Enjoy a selection of familiar holiday tunes synchronized with thousands of Christmas lights and feature elements. May 2017 | VIP Magazine

Living Downtown provides convenient, walkable access to some of the city’s best restaurants, arts, shopping, and entertainment. With so much happening in the heart of the city, Downtown is becoming the hotspot to live. “I’ve always wanted to have the ability to experience downtown living. Having all that downtown Florence offers right outside my door is absolutely wonderful! Plus, I couldn’t have picked a better location in The Emerson. It is right in the center of everything plus the staff always goes above and beyond when I need something!” -Meggie Baker, downtown resident City Center Farmers’ Market 369 W. Cheves Street January – December | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Stop in for local produce, meats, dairy, and great artisan-made goodies!

Florence After Five 100 block S. Dargan Concert | 5:30-8:30 p.m. April 28 May 26 June 30 July 28

VIP Magazine | May 2017

August 25 September 29 October 27

April 7 1st Friday June 2 James Allen Plaza July 7 Concert | 5-9 p.m. August 4 September 1 October 6 November 3 December 2

EXPERIENCE DOWNTOWN AMENITIES SHOPPING

DINING

ADDIE’S BABY PAINTING STUDIO

DOLCE VITA CAFÉ AND MORE

BOXCAR MARKET

KING JEFE

CONSIDER THE LILLIES FLORALS AND GIFTS

LOCAL MOTIVE BREWING

ELLA’S BOUTIQUE

SOULE CAFÉ

LADY KIDS

THAI HOUSE 2

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

THE CLAY POT COFFEE SHOP

MCCANTS LINGERIE

THE DISPENSARY

MILADIES 182

THE KITCHEN

O’HARRA MELLETTE INTERIORS

THE LIBRARY

PERSONAL PAPERS

TOP HAT SPECIAL TEAS

SMART PHONE REPAIR

TOWN HALL

THE ARTISAN SHOP AT TTHOMAS ARTS STUDIO

VICTORS

THE SPA AT HOTEL FLORENCE

WHOLLY SMOKIN’ BBQ

THE SUCCESS CONTINUES.

“PROJECT T”

HYATT PLACE HOTEL

• Expansion of Targeted Redevelopment Area • Develop Food, Artisan + Warehouse District • FMU’s “Project T” Will Create 60 Jobs FSD1 ARTS MAGNET SCHOOL

FLO. COUNTY JUDICIAL CENTER

CAROLINA BANK HQ

DARGAN + EVANS STREETSCAPE

LOCAL MOTIVE BREWING

REDBONE ALLEY SAUCE PLANT

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

True Light Photography

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ribbon Cutting The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott held its official grand opening on April 13. Raines Hospitality executives, as well as a number of hotel staff and clients attended. General Manager Will Lenox said by opening the Fairfield Inn, each of Marriottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five selectservice brands are now located in the same area near the Florence Civic Center.

photography by True Light Photography

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

2017 Heartbeat Gala March 30th at NewSpring Church

VIP Magazine | May 2017

1 Board & Staff with Lysa TerKeurst; Back Row: Theresa Leach, Joe Parker, Phyllis Davidson, Lysa TerKeurst, Kathy Griffin, Catherine Wells, Kate Moore, and Mark Palmer; Front Row: Brice Elvington, Dawn Bailey, and Lisa Jones 2 Jane Boulware, Gina Llaneza, and Donna Helms 3 Jessica and Kevin Berry, Phyllis and Mike Davidson 4 Lysa TerKeurst, Proverbs 31 Ministries 5 Doug, Jackie, and Savannah Smith 6 Inside NewSpring 7 Clay Brown, singer 8 Carolanne Wells, Yancy Wells, Sharon Alexander, Richard Alexander 9 Gracie Myers, singer 10 Buffet Line

The event was held March 30 through April 1. Florence Fashion WeekÂŽ provides a platform for local businesses and designers of handmade or custom clothing to showcase their offerings to the fashion conscious consumer and celebrates fashion as an integral part of the Florence lifestyle.

photography by Bethany Silva

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

Francis Marion University held its Arts International Festival in downtown Florence on Saturday, April 8. Visitors enjoyed food and entertainment from a variety of countries and cultures, musical performances, crafts for kids and merchandise from vendors.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

FLORENCE

FEATURED EVENT

Saturday, May 20

Children’s Fun Run: 7:30a | Run/Walk: 8a The course will start and end at Sonoco’s Corporate Headquarters and take you through some of Hartsville’s historic areas, including Coker College and Prestwood Lake. Start/Finish: Sonoco Corp Headquarters | 400 North Second St Entry Fees: Fun Run $10 | 5k prior to race day $25 | 5k race day $30 Early Registration: www.simplytiming.com/events Race day info/registration: Sonoco 7-7:45a Awards - 9a: Overall male/female (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Overall male/female masters division (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Overall male/female ages 9 & under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+ (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Every child receives a medal

1...................................................................................................................................................... Florence Symphony Orchestra | FMU PAC 7:30p 2..................................................................................................................................................... Florence Welcoming Club Monthly Meeting | 7p 4..................................................................................................................................................... National Day of Prayer Bone E Fit | Downtown Florence 7p 5..................................................................................................................................................... Cinco De Mayo | Downtown Florence 5:30p 2017 River Jamboree | Lynches River County Park 10a 7..................................................................................................................................................... Starr Ward Chamber Music Series | Water’s Building Gallery 5p 11.................................................................................................................................................... 35th Annual Greek Festival FDTC Graduations | Civic Center 12................................................................................................................................................... 35th Annual Greek Festival Rick Springfield | FMU PAC 7:30p The Lion King, Jr. | FLT 7:30p 13................................................................................................................................................... The Lion King, Jr. | FLT 3p & 7:30p 14................................................................................................................................................... 35th Annual Greek Festival The Lion King, Jr. | FLT –3p 16................................................................................................................................................... SC Senior Sports Classic begins | FMU 18................................................................................................................................................... SCSSC Pickleball Tournament Begins Leadership Florence Disco Ball | Waters Building 7p 19................................................................................................................................................... Annual Beer Festival | Palmetto Peddlers 3p Fiddler on the Roof, Jr. | FLT 21................................................................................................................................................... Masterworks Choir Spring Concert | FMU PAC 5p 22.................................................................................................................................................. Prowl & Growl | Florence Civic Center 4:30p Florence Area Big Band | FMU PAC 7:30p 25.................................................................................................................................................. 5th Annual Awards Night | Florence Little Theatre Cooks for Christ | WFFD 26.................................................................................................................................................. Florence After 5: Second Nature | Downtown 5:30p 31................................................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves vs. Lexington County Blowfish 7p WEEKLY EVENTS Wednesdays.................................................................................................................................................. Wine Down Wednesday | Dolce Vita 4p

Contact Stephanie Urqhart at stephanie.urquhart@sonoco.com or call 843.383.3446 for more info.

Thursdays.......................................................................................................................................................

All proceeds support Darlington Habitat for Humanity!

Saturdays........................................................................................................................................................

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Trivia Night | Southern Hops 7p City Center Farmer’s Market | Downtown 9a

MAY 2017

CALENDAR OF EVENTS DARLINGTON 5............................................................................................................................................. Relay for Life Darlington County | Byerly Park 6p-2a 6............................................................................................................................................. Touch A Truck | Darlington Raceway 9a-1p 13........................................................................................................................................... Taste of Society Hill | Historic Downtown Depot (Society Hill) 7p-9p 18........................................................................................................................................... Coaching Champions Lunch and Learn | Darlington Library 12p

HARTSVILLE 4............................................................................................................................................. Taste Of Hartsville | Hartsville Country Club 6:30p-9p 6............................................................................................................................................. Susto, Mac’s Lounge 9p 7............................................................................................................................................. James and the Giant Peach | The Center Theatre 3:30p-5p 13........................................................................................................................................... Villa Nova | Mac’s Lounge 9p 18........................................................................................................................................... Connections After Hours | Hampton Inn & Suites 5:30p-7p 19........................................................................................................................................... Blue Dogs with Trey Davis | Mac’s Lounge 9p 25.......................................................................................................................................... Sonoco Home Run 5K & Fun Run | Sonoco 7:30a

LAKE CITY 6............................................................................................................................................. Bog Gardening | Moore Farms Botanical Garden 9:30a-noon 13........................................................................................................................................... Spring Series: Puttin’ Around | MFBG 10a-noon 19........................................................................................................................................... May Days: Plant Sale and BBQ | MFBG 8:30a–3:30p 25.......................................................................................................................................... May Days: Plant Sale and BBQ | MFBG 8:30a–3:30p 25.......................................................................................................................................... Leaf Casting Class | MFBG 10a-2p

MARION 3............................................................................................................................................. Rise and Shine hosted by the FoxTot Festival | 8:30a 4............................................................................................................................................. National Day of Prayer. Marion Baptist Church 7p 13........................................................................................................................................... HMRA Annual Meeting and Payback Playback Concert | Main Street Commons 12p-6p (ticketed event, 843.423.9918) 18........................................................................................................................................... FoxTrot Thursday | Marion Opera House 6:30p 19........................................................................................................................................... FoxTrot Fireworks | Withlacoochee Park 9:15p 20.......................................................................................................................................... 25th Annual FoxTrot Festival

TIME TO TOAST

Local Salute Darlington Area Recreation Awarded Check

House of Hope Life Recovery Graduation held Congratulations to the House of Hope Life Recovery Graduates! ‘An Evening of Hope’ was held on April 3rd at First Presbyterian Church.

FMU’s Jokisch Named to Prestigious Scientific Panel Chair of university’s Physics Department assisting international study of the effects of radiation on humans. Dr. Derek Jokisch’s interest in an obscure corner of the world of radiation dosimetry has earned him a place on a prestigious government panel and a unique trip to Russia to assist a group of international scientists studying the long-term health effects of radiation on humans. Jokisch, professor of Physics and chair of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Francis Marion University, was recently named a member of the U.S. DOE’s Scientific Review Group for the Russian Health Studies Program. Jokisch joins a group of six U.S. scientists — two from the University of Washington, one from Georgia Tech, one from Tufts and one from the Department of Energy — on the SRG. The U.S. SRG, and its counterparts on the Russian SRG, review the work of scientists involved in the Russian Health Studies Program. The Russian Health Studies Program is a multi-decade initiative in which scientists are studying the long-term health effects of a large population group in and round the region near the former Russian nuclear weapons production site at Mayak. Mayak is in south central Russia, near the city of Chelyabinsk. From 1948-67, hundreds of thousands of Russians were exposed to significant doses of radiation released at Mayak through what the DOE has termed accidents and poor safety procedures. The large population group offers researchers a unique data set for determining the health effects of radiation exposure. Scientists have been measuring the amount of radiation in individuals in the exposed population for more than 20 years. Epidemiologists have been cataloging the medical conditions of the population. “It’s humbling,” says Jokisch. “But it’s also very exciting and very rewarding to see work that I’ve done for years start to make its way into applications all over the world.”

On April 20th Jazma Green presented the Darlington Area Recreation Department a check of $2,210.00! The Recreation Department is always grateful for donations, big or small! Lee Andrews, Darlington County Parks, Recreation & Tourism Director and Jazma Green.

Local Gymnasts Qualify at USAG Regional Meet Destiny Harrell and Ariel Davis are Level 6 Regional Qualifiers and recently competed at the USAG Regional Meet in Mobile, Alabama. The region is made up of the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Destiny was the All Star Senior C age group Regional Champion in the vault with a score of 9.600 and finished in 8th place All-Around. Ariel was one of only eight gymnasts from across South Carolina that qualified to represent South Carolina on the Team Senior State Team where they finished in 5th place and she was 9th place AllAround.

Carolinas Hospital System Names Employee of the Year Carolinas Hospital System is pleased to announce that David Barino has been named as 2017 Employee of the Year. This award is the highest honor bestowed on a hospital employee. David was chosen from among 1500 employees for the honor. David serves as the Plant Operational Manager and is certified by the American Hospital Association as a Certified Healthcare Facility Manager. He has been employed with Carolinas Hospital System for 25 years. Employees are nominated for the award by their hospital peers based on their commitment to patient care, professionalism, and contributions on the job. Congratulations, David!

In the Spotlight Downtown Florence Earns Cultural District Designation The South Carolina Arts Commission has named downtown Florence as the newest state-recognized cultural district. A cultural district is an easily identifiable geographic area with a concentration of arts facilities and assets that support cultural, artistic and economic activity. The cultural district designation was created by the S.C. General Assembly and Gov. Nikki Haley in 2014. The City of Florence and the Florence Regional Arts Alliance worked with local leaders and Arts Commission staff to develop a map of cultural assets and a strategic plan for the district. City officials will use the cultural district designation to attract visitors and residents to downtown and promote the area as a hub of arts and culture. “This cultural district designation from the South Carolina Arts Commission is a tremendous honor,” said Florence City Council member George Jebailey. “This designation recognizes the hard work done over the last 17 years by a community committed to a unified vision to create a detailed master plan establishing a purposeful clustering of multiple arts venues in downtown Florence. Through the collaboration of the many public-private partners working together on this unified vision, we have seen the master plan become a reality leading to this important designation. We anticipate that many new opportunities will now be available for us to promote both the City of Florence and the entire Pee Dee Region as an important destination for arts, culture and entertainment.” “Receiving the S.C. state recognition of a designated cultural district will assist in our ongoing marketing of downtown Florence as a tourist destination,” said Florence Downtown Development Manager Ray Reich. “The Vision 2010 Initiative that was created in 2000, as well as the 2010 Downtown Master Plan, envisioned downtown as a place featuring a string of cultural pearls. The first pearl in the string was the library, followed by the Florence Little Theatre, and then the FMU Performing Arts Center, followed by the new museum, as well as many other cultural amenities that have been developed in recent years in our beautiful and historic downtown. This designation affirms that we are well in our way to achieving the vision of a string of cultural pearls. However, this is just the beginning, and while we have created an outstanding foundation, the work will not stop as we continue to work together as a community to live up to our new community brand of being a community full of life and moving full forward with more amenities.”

Hartsville Toastmasters Presents Its First Speechcraft Workshop New Chef at The Inn at the Crosswords The Inn at the Crossroads has appointed Chef Juan Carlos Garcia as their new executive chef who will oversee all of the hotel’s food and beverage operations, including Crossroads on Main Restaurant as well as all banquet and catering menus.

CHS Employee Receives The United States of America Meritorious Service Medal CHS is proud to announce that Raymond Worthy, Jr., Director of Materials Management has been awarded the United States of America Meritorious Service Medal. Authorized by the president of the United States of America, the award is in recognition for his exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding services as Staff Sergeant in the South Carolina Army National Guard from 1987 to 2016.

The Hartsville Toastmasters Club recently completed its first Toastmasters Speechcraft Workshop. This 10 hour workshop, conducted using materials developed by Toastmasters International, is designed to help each participant develop the skills to prepare a wellorganized speech and present it using good body motions and vocal variety. The program works for experienced and novice speakers alike. Five students participated including residents of Hartsville, Darlington and Bennettsville. The workshop was conducted at the Mezzo Forte restaurant in Hartsville on four consecutive Monday evenings and facilitated by Tre` Gammage, a member of the Hartsville club and the 2016 South Carolina International Speech Contest Champion. Bruce Eide, VP Membership for the Hartsville Club said that “although it was a big investment of time by many members of the club it was a very rewarding experience seeing the improvement in each of the participants over the four week period.” The club is making plans to conduct another Speechcraft workshop in the fall.

INNOVATE

One Community • One Calendar

GOHARTSVILLE.COM story by Ella Lawson Beautiful scenery, a lovely and ever-growing downtown area, smiling, friendly faces… It’s no secret that the town of Hartsville certainly has a lot of heart. While many residents of small towns may find themselves in a stalemate sense of being due to the lack of activiites in their area, that’s certainly no longer the case for Hartsville, especially now that Cheryl Telligman and her team have created an app that keeps residents “in the know” of events in their area. She shares, “Hartsville is a great town with so much happening, yet I have heard locals say, ‘There’s nothing to do,’ or ‘I wish I’d known about that, I’d have gotten involved.’ I also heard and experienced the difficulties of finding a date that did not clash with another event. I have spent hours visiting websites with school calendars, team calendars, business calendars, and social media to find a ‘good’ date. I knew if we worked the problem, we could find a solution with technology.” Forming Calendary Technologies, GoHartsville.com was created by Cheryl and her team - Hunter Damron, Jason Crist, and Tesla Waters. “Our mission is to provide a comprehensive multi-feature community calendar to improve community involvement and increase business revenues with automated technology that is adaptable and scalable to other communities. Anyone can build a calendar, so our focus is on development of technologies that feed the calendar appropriate and comprehensive data. In the past, different community members have attempted to provide this service as a community kindness-service. The amount of time that it takes to maintain something like this manually is not feasible for a non-profit or small business owner who has so many other competing priorities.” This is where they saw the opportunity to focus their dedication upon community service while utilizing their tech skills. “We decided to flip the calendaring model of yesterday—instead of relying on you, Event Sponsor, to keep us in the know, we gather the data and include it at GoHartsville.com. There is no required effort from the businesses, schools, and non-profits. They aren’t in the business of calendaring, we are. We want them to focus on what they do, and we will pull the event data to our site for them.” 44

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Work on the project began in November 2016 at StartUp Hartsville. “We knew what the problem was and we knew the why and how of previous attempts of an aggregated community calendar. During StartUp Hartsville, we brainstormed and developed the concept. We began assessment of the business environment and did some guerilla marketing to get a feel for community reception. Everyone we talked to was positive and expressed an interest. We re-grouped in January 2017 and became serious about concept development. We spent hours on research and each did a deep-dive to learn specific technology tools. Then, we assessed what critical elements needed to occur in each of three stages and got down to work.” By February, the team had become a client of Startsville Innovation Center and moved into the co-working space. Early April saw the launch of their first iteration as a web application on GoHartsville.com. Continuous improvement and addition of features that are both business facing and consumer facing are implemented in Stage 2, which was released on April 27. Cheryl and team are currently meeting with several organizations to pre-sell advertisements. “We want a clean inviting and simple user experience and have

Hunter Damron, Jason Crist, Cheryl Telligman and Tesla Waters

designed an unobtrusive graphic user interface to be deployed in July.” A co-branding of products is also in the works. She continues, “As we’ve talked with Hartsville businesses, we know our application is value-added from hoteliers and convenience shop owners to assist with volume wholesale orders/ planning, to beauticians and service providers to know the spring prom cycle and how it fits with other events for planning, and restaurants for knowing when to expect after-the-game surges. The applications and value for both community involvement and business opportunities is exceptionally strong.” As for consumers, they expect to offer the calendar free of charge, with a subscription model for those wishing to import data into their iCal/Google/Outlook or other calendaring system. “A parent could pull base calendars from their children’s school and build upon it with the cycling schedule from the YMCA, the art classes at Black Creek, and the Clemson football schedule with a few swipes. In under a few minutes, the customer has a calendar that previously took an hour or more to create.” The app gathers and sifts the data and is easy to use. “Anyone can build a calendar, so our focus is on development of technologies that feed the calendar appropriate and comprehensive data. Additionally, we have added City of Hartsville, Chamber of Commerce, Black Creek Arts, YMCA, and Boys and Girls Club calendars. Over the next few weeks, we will be deploying versions that include data from Hartsville’s Civic Organizations and Churches.” In the near future, individuals will also be able to submit information for an event to GoHartsville.com for inclusion on the calendar. “We will include instructions and style sheet requirements on the website. We stress that this will be an option, not a requirement, unless an organization

does not electronically publish their event information.” The app is, of course, successful thanks in large part to Cheryl and her team. Cheryl is an experienced business professional and educator. Her technology focus is on the website development, database design and data-entry, as well as working with Hunter and Tesla integrate machine learning algorithms between the database and web crawler. Hunter, a senior at the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics, is a national merit scholar who is also a member of the GSSM Robotics Team. “Hunter has solid programming and software design skills and keeps everyone in-line from a technological perspective. He spends much of his time developing the web crawler.” Tesla is also a senior at GSSM. She spent last summer as a research assistant at Clemson, where she analyzed the mechanical properties of the JSC Mars 1-A Martian Regolith Simulant. “The team relies on Tesla for her creative ability and work with concept development. She is also instrumental to marketing efforts, sales, and promotions, as well as keeping Cheryl from dreaming into the 22nd century.” Last, but certainly not least, is Jason. “Jason is a Coker College graduate that specializes in graphic design who does the graphic design work for our application. He is vital in creating an user interface that is pretty enough to rest your eyeballs on that also has utility.” Since the roll-out of Stage 2 on April 27th, they have begun to develop partnerships and sell advertisements, as well as launch a KickStarter campaign. “Our plan is to work diligently through the summer for Stage 3 roll-out with our GUI with features, apis, and subscriptions—a must-have for Back-to-School and another season of Good Living in Hartsville.”

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

POSITIVE PURSUIT

25th Annual FCSO

FISHING TOURNAMENT

In May of 1993, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office sponsored its first fishing tournament at the Galivants Ferry Landing at the Pee Dee Little River. This was a day long event which ended at approximately 5:00 p.m. with a weigh-in. The 57 registered participants enjoyed a cookout and award presentation ceremony. Due to the growth of this event, we moved to Santee Cooper in 1999 and each year have over 250 participants. Money raised from registration helps fund Camp Pee Dee Pride along with hunts for the youth and our disabled veterans. It takes approximately 35 volunteers each year to make this two day event the great success it continues to be. The major sponsors of this event are Academy Sports & Outdoors, Marshall’s Marine, Mercury Outboard Motors, CSX, Coca-Cola, Domino’s Pizza, Farmers Telephone, Finklea Law Firm, South State Bank, Honda of S.C., Hatchell’s Landscaping, the Mark Hanna Agency (Allstate), South Carolina DNR, WPDE TV15, and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office. We are pleased to announce that Westrock is now a major sponsor of this event and we are happy to welcome them aboard. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, June 3rd, at the John C. Land Landing at Santee. Pre-registered participants can enjoy a cookout on Friday night at the landing. Anglers can register up to 7:00 p.m. on Friday night and beginning at 6:00 a.m. the following morning. The tournament will begin at safe light and conclude with a weigh-in beginning at 3:00 p.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m. Winners will be announced at the closing ceremony which is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. All participants are invited to a chicken bog, hot dog, and hamburger cookout which will be held at noontime at the landing. This will be the 25th year Jackie McGee has prepared the meals for the fishing tournament which is one of the main reasons people attend this tournament.

Anyone interested in taking youth fishing or helping with other activities can contact Captain Wayne Howard at (843) 665-2121 ext. 339. Fishing applications can be obtained on-line at www.fcsospecialprojects.org; click on “events”. Also, any monetary donations should be made payable to “Camp Pee Dee Pride” and mailed to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, ATTN: Fishing Tournament, 6719 Friendfield Road, Effingham, SC 29541.

VIP Magazine | May 2017

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

FLORENCE COMMUNITY

Brought to you by The Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, Clemson Extension Service and Francis Marion University

DEVELOP. CONNECT. IMPACT. story by Mike Miller, President of Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce has written many times about the various business events and partner programs that are on its agenda each year. As we move through 2017, the Chamber will have presented more than 65 business, civic and community programs throughout the Pee Dee Region. More of these endeavors are taking on a focus and support toward education. One of the very special programs recently launched is the Junior Leadership Florence County project. This effort is done through a partnership with the Florence Chamber, Francis Marion University and Florence County 4-H/Clemson Extension. The program is modeled after the Florence Chamber’s Leadership Florence program, and is designed for rising sophomores and juniors from Florence County public and private schools. It enables students to be able to develop leadership skills, while also increasing their awareness of the community in which they live. Junior Leadership Florence County consists of eight monthly sessions. The goal is to provide an investment in our community’s future leadership by fostering new interest in the region’s business and government entities. 48

VIP Magazine | May 2017

The sessions feature an intense, day-long series of site visits and informational meetings that include leadership skills, team work, community awareness, business, industry, agriculture, natural resources, art, government, education and healthcare. Amazingly, the first two years have produced very positive reactions from the students and parents. We cannot count the number of times we have heard a participant say, “I didn’t know we did that here in Florence” or “I thought I’d have to leave the area to get this kind of job”,

school guidance counselor, principal or headmaster. Only 22-24 students will be able to participate each year. This year’s class commencement ceremony is on April 27th at Francis Marion University. While this coming years application process is closed, it would be a good idea to target next year’s rising sophomore and juniors class. We encourage every parent to consider looking at this program. You can get more information by contacting the Florence Chamber offices at 843-665-0515.

Parents comments are even more intriguing with remarks like, “I’ve never seen my daughter so excited as she was yesterday at the JLFC Law Enforcement Day”. The support from parents for this program has been tremendous. It is clear the partnership project has exceeded all our expectations. Students can apply for the program through their area high school. They must have the support of the school and must express an interest in understanding and serving the community. Selected students must have a proven satisfactory academic standing and have been endorsed by their high

Contact Mike Miller: Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce 100 W Evans St, Florence 843.665.0515 mmiller@flochamer.com flochamber.com

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Ranny Starnes, Ashley Elvington and John Keith

The Sweet Life Downtown Dolce Vita Cafe’ and More story by Ashley Elvington It was a muggy morning in late July when I walked through the doors of Dolce Vita Wine and Chocolate Bar in Downtown Florence. While I had been there several times before, something felt different this time. I was nervous, as I was headed that way for a job interview. My good friend, and Manager of Dolce Vita at the time, Andrea Frondorf, told me that a baker was needed at DV. I grew up with a passion for baking, and the thought of moving from one dream job (writing) to another (baking) had my complete attention. I remember saying a prayer that morning in my car, for God to please show the owner my pure heart, hard work ethic, and integrity… If anything, at least help me leave a lasting impression. What I wasn’t expecting, however, was the overwhelming feeling of being in the right place at the right time. As I mentioned previously, I have walked through the doors of Dolce Vita many times… yet something was different this time. I had never felt that way going into a job interview before, was this a sign of things to come? Then out from the back room comes the man, the myth, the legend, Dr. John Keith (this is the part where his extremely humble soul rolls his eyes at my commentary). It didn’t take long for me to realize why everyone adores John, his energy is contagious and he has a warm spirit you can’t help but want to be around. 50

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Needless to say, I got the job as Master Baker and on August 15, 2016, Dolce Vita opened its doors at 7AM Monday through Saturday for our full service espresso bar, complete with made from scratch muffins made by yours truly. I couldn’t sleep the night before, in fact, I’m pretty sure I only got one hour! I had never been so excited about a job before. Something felt right, I finally felt like I had fulfilled a chapter of my destiny. This sentiment was shared by our current Manager and Coffee Master, Ranny Starnes. I’ll never forget the day I met her beautiful smiling face for the first time. “I’m so excited,” she exclaimed, “something about this place feels like home.” I immediately got goosebumps, as I thought it was incredible for someone else to have the same experience I did when I walked through the doors of DV. As the weeks passed, customers began to share the same feelings as well, as I often heard (and still hear to this

day) how DV has become a quiet escape for many, how it is such a welcoming and warm environment, how they immediately want to come see us after a long or particularly rough day. While there are many reasons as to why our team loves working at DV, we all can agree that making customers’ smile and adding some positivity to their day certainly tops the list. Weeks passed and DV steady grew in sales and customers. Our breakfast menu expanded to include scones, mini muffins, quiche, and popovers, our coffee drinks expanded, so did our calendar of events. People were lining up to have the best coffee in town (And no, I’m not just saying that because I work there!). In addition to Wine Down Wednesday (where all glasses are half priced from 4PM-8PM and all bottles are 15% all day long), we added Family Day on Saturdays with our delicious chocolate chip cookie cups lined in Belgium chocolate crafted by Master Chocolatier Marvin James. We also brought back DV’s beloved monthly wine tastings, where customers can spend the evening tasting a variety of wines from different regions, along with our delicious meat and cheese tray accompaniments, while learning about each wine and the region it’s from, along with the option to purchase said wines at a premium price. Business was steady growing, especially once Francis Marion University opened its medical school one block over on Irby Street. DV became the favorite spot of students needing a place to study and write papers, sometimes even to unwind after a long day of testing and/or clinicals. We quickly gained new fans, along with our beloved nighttime regulars. With so much growth in less than a year, it was a no brainer that we needed a larger space. In January of this year, John decided to move Dolce Vita into 1031 American Grill’s location. While he didn’t announce it to us until things were almost complete, we had a feeling something was going on. We all love John, and we’ve learned how to tell when the wheels of creativity are spinning within that genius mind of his. “He’s up to something…” customers would say, especially after he taped up the windows and doors to keep the

new DV a total surprise. “Most definitely,” I would reply, “and you can guarantee it will be something spectacular.” Something spectacular indeed, as Dolce Vita completed its move the week of April 10, 2017. We all pitched in to help move, decorate, organize, and clean…which meant something truly special to each of us who are employed at Dolce Vita, to have a hand in the process of expanding the business we love so much. We now have the ability to not only offer more seating, but to also offer live music inside as well. A recent addition that has brought even more business to DV is offering lunch items, known as our Grab and Go. Stop on in for some chicken salad, pimiento cheese, or turkey/apple/pesto/cheddar sandwiches, a ham and cheese croissant, salads, artisan flatbreads, hummus and veggies… All of it is worth a try! And I’m not just saying that because it was made by yours truly, who now has her own kitchen! It may seem biased, but we truly do have the best team at Dolce Vita Café and More. There’s our Coffee Master Ranny Starnes, whose knowledge of coffee and compassion for providing the best customer service inspires me every day; Liv McBryde, who has a talent like no other in latte art; Anne Lewis, who also has exceptional customer service skills as well as a vast talent in the art of barista; Master Chocolatier Marvin James, whose creations bring dozens through the doors of DV each day (Try the dark chocolate sea salt, you won’t be sorry!); Malika Crawford and Kelsey Coleman, both lighthearted spirits sure to put a smile on your face; and Seth Glovier, who is what I prefer to call a Master Mixologist (He is also one talented bartender next door at our sister business, The Library). Each of us are different, yet we all add something truly special to Dolce Vita. And where would we all be without John? All of us will agree that it’s easy for us to do this job successfully when we have an employer who encourages us and believes in us every single day. I know for me personally it’s inspiring working for someone who puts their heart into all they do. When asked why I feel everyone brags about the atmosphere at Dolce Vita, well, that’s just it – we each love our job and we truly care about providing the best experience to not only Florence residents, but all who grace the streets of Downtown Florence. Come by and see us sometime! Stop in for a delicious drink and chat with Ranny and our morning team, pop in the kitchen window and say hi to the baker, spend your evening with our fun, easy going night team. We’re here for you to provide the best experience possible in the heart of Florence. At Dolce Vita, life is indeed sweet after all.

For a taste of Dolce Vita, visit: 160 South Dargan Street, Florence | (843) 610-2351 Open Monday thru Saturday May 2017 | VIP Magazine

TECH SAVVY

Phase

Text-Messaging for Better Diabetic Control

Revisited at Mercy Medicine Free Clinic story by John Elwood Owens, MD, JD, Volunteer Physician at Mercy Medicine Free Clinic

In the June 2016 Issue of VIP Magazine, a most timely and medicallyrelated article presented the concept of “text-messaging” for improved diabetic control in affected patients. This revolutionary idea was the basis for medical research and a subsequent doctoral thesis by Nurse Practitioner Nina Marie Russell, who continues to practice primary care medicine at Mercy Medicine Free Clinic, and who -- quite deservedly -- has since been awarded that superlative “doctor of nurse practice” degree from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), with ceremonial “hooding” in December 2016.

Nina Russell Nina Russell began her nursing career 17 years ago and holds dual graduate degrees from MUSC: a MSN with a focus in education and a MSN Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed her DNP in 2016 from MUSC in which her doctoral work focused on improving diabetic patient care and outcome using mobile phone text-messaging interventions. She has continued those efforts by writing and receiving a McNair Grant to expand on her previous quality improvement initiative with mobile phone technology among diabetic patients in a free clinic. She is an instructor of nursing at Francis Marion University and practices primary health care at Mercy Medicine Free Clinic in Florence, South Carolina, which serves the uninsured and indigent populations of Florence and Williamsburg Counties.

VIP Magazine | May 2017

A quick review of the facts serves to demonstrate the severity of this disease in America. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in our nation has more than doubled over the past 30 years. 29.1 million Americans have diabetes and 200,000 of them die annually from diabetes or diabetes related complications. This nation spends $ 245 billion dollars each year in the management of diabetic complications. Undoubtedly, improved control of diabetic patients can and will prevent complications, preserve life and limb loss, and save precious health care dollars to be spent elsewhere. Diabetes is best controlled by knowledgeable selfmanagement accompanied with exacting supervision by health care professionals. The American Diabetic Association recommends “diabetic selfmanagement education” (DSME), immediately following the diagnosis. The basis of supervision is ordinarily that of an office visit with a health care provider; however, this supervision can be augmented and enhanced -- with better result at lower cost -- by mobile phone technology / or “text messaging.” Phase I of the INTERVENTION / “TEXT MESSAGING” was initiated April 1, 2016 to promote active participation in disease management through education, behavior modification and active collaboration with the health care team. In Phase One (INTERVENTION), diabetic patients received text messages, which focused on “education, medication reminders, self-management blood glucose reminders, and foot care reminders.” Patients were given (under Phase One) two daily reminders and two weekly “educational tips.” Reminders included “Did you remember to take your blood sugar this morning?” and “Did you take your medications appropriately?” The patient would answer by cell phone with “Yes” or “No.” A timely reminder obviously helped to improve diabetic control by reminding patients to take their medications and, thereby, lower their blood sugars. These data -- compiled from April, May, and June, 2016 -- demonstrated that the mean* “finger stick blood glucose” (FSBG) DECREASED in this patient cohort by 11.3 % post intervention. In simple terms, these patients had better control of their blood sugar, by means of the timely reminders to pursue the critical selfmanagement, and this was done with relatively inexpensive cyber-technology.

At this point, Dr. Russell has completed Phase Two (INTERVENTION) of her research to enable better diabetic control by text messaging. Dr. Russell used a McNair Research Grant to fund this portion of the research, and she recruited two Francis Marion University (FMU) faculty members, Dr. Tracy George and Ms. Marty Hucks, to assist her in this endeavor. In this period of research, four kinds of text messages were sent to all participants each week (two weekly messages, of which one was “inspirational” and one was an “exercise tip” and the last two being simple questions such as “How many minutes of exercise did you perform per week?” and “How many healthy meals did you consume per week?”) Accompanying Phase Two, a trainer and psychologist led classes in exercise and coping / stress reduction. Dr. Russell then looked at “aggregate Hgb A1C” over a three month period, as it related to “minutes of exercise” and “”consuming healthy meals.” Again, this cohort of diabetic patients were “better controlled” as their “aggregate Hgb A1C levels DECREASED from 10.9 % (in Phase One) to 7.4 % (in Phase Two). The strengths of this research demonstrated “strong agency and nursing support, positive patient feedback, and patients received ongoing DSME and support.” Currently, Dr. Russell is in Phase Three of her research, which will include diabetic educator classes and text classes and text messages related to diet and exercise. The interactive daily questions will ask about medications and exercise. Dr. Russell summarizes her research and data collection as follows: “Integration of an interprofessional evidence-based text-messaging communication system supports diabetes selfmanagement and promotes patient adherence with daily medication regimen, SMBG, diet, and exercise in all primary care settings, leading to better patient outcomes and cost savings for diabetic care.” Knowledgeable diabetic self-management coupled with supervisory text-messaging and positive reinforcement on dieting and exercise may well be the inevitable and futuristic methodology to treat the majority of diabetic patients . . . . . effectively, efficiently, economically, and particularly where / when patients live in remote locations. *”mean”: denotes “average” of a series of different values. **”A1C”: A blood test which reflects recent history of blood sugars in a particular patient; normally, 5% of Hemoglobin is “glycated (affixed with glucose). An A1C below 5.7 is normal. An A1C between 5.7 and 6.4 indicates “pre-diabetes.” An A1C above 6.4 denotes diabetes.

Contact Mercy Medicine:

500 South Coit Street, Florence SC 29501 (843) 667-9947

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

ADVOCATING HEALTHCARE

photo by Bradley Lail

Removing Barriers to BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE story by Donna Tracy

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about 43.8 million Americans – that’s one in every five adults –suffer from some form of mental illness in any given year. But, while most people don’t give a second thought about visiting a doctor for a broken bone or to treat a disease in their lungs, many still hesitate to give voice to their mental health concerns. The impact of ignoring these mental health needs costs the US more than $193 billion in lost earnings each year. By 2020, the indirect costs, including lost work days and decreased productivity for both the employees experiencing a mental health condition and employed caregivers, are projected to reach $483.9 billion. According to a Milken Institute’s 2007 report, the economic impact of mental health was the third costliest of chronic conditions for South Carolina with direct costs for treatment totaling $4 billion in 2003. The reported cases of mental disorders represented 14.1 percent of the state’s population and indirect costs totaled more than four times the direct costs with $16.8 billion in lost productivity. Making mental health care accessible by overcoming barriers to care could help reduce this economic impact as well as address the needs of our communities. Barriers to mental health care include social stigma, awareness, financial factors, racial disparities in care, and a lack of mental health providers. Many of these barriers can be addressed by integrating behavioral health in the primary care

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Pictured above: HopeHealth provider Morgan Melton, DNP (left) describes the risks, noticed in a pediatric patient’s behavioral health assessment, to behaviorist Eboni Frazier, LMSW.

setting where a proactive and cost-effective approach to mental well-being makes care more accessible to more people. Integration of care means providers are better able to meet the high demand of behavioral health needs in our communities and makes access to multiple treatment options and enhanced treatment models easier. Integration ensures the needs of the whole patient – mind and body – are addressed and that mental health care becomes a part of routine health conversations. This helps reduce the stigma of seeking care for unresolved mental health issues. Medical providers alleviate patients’ concerns about seeking help by making behavioral health a regular topic of discussion and including introductions to behavior health counselors, or behaviorists, during primary care visits. Behaviorists can then provide patients with additional support and address the social and psychological impacts of patients’ diagnoses. “During a regular visit for back pain, a cold, or even a wellness visit, a primary care physician might diagnose a patient with anxiety, depression, or another mental health disorder, and can call in a behavior health counselor,” explained Eboni Frazier, LMSW, a behavior health counselor, or behaviorist, at HopeHealth. “This counselor can spend more time helping the patient adjust to a diagnosis and recognize and address those factors and stressors

DID YOU KNOW?

One in every 5 adults suffer from some form of mental illness in any given year.

within their lives that may be affecting his or her health negatively between provider visits.â&#x20AC;? With mental health being a trending concern in the US, Frazier said she feels the use of behavior health counselors will grow as more providers see the benefit of including behavior health during regular patient appointments and more patients become receptive to addressing their mental wellbeing. Tammie Pough, LMSW, also a behaviorist at HopeHealth, explained not every person with behavioral health issues needs a referral to a psychiatrist. Some may only need some guidance on how to overcome the issues they are facing. The behaviorists work with patients with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bi-polar disorder, and with patients who have physical ailments such as congestive heart failure and COPD. They also help with smoking cessation, alcohol and drug abuse, and substance abuse issues. Behaviorists are not a replacement for therapy with a specialized therapist or psychiatrist. Instead, they augment primary care providers to determine if on-going counseling or medication is needed. They can help educate patients on the proper use of medications and what they can do at home to manage symptoms of their diagnoses between visits, they can help patients make better choices that promote healthier lifestyles by identifying behaviors that can be changed, they work with families taking care of loved ones, and they connect patients to resources that can help address their needs.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Genesis SIGNATURE

LIPOSCULPTING Edward O’Dell, M.D., FACOG Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center Medical Director and Co-Founder

story by Dr. Edward O’Dell, M.D., FACOG

You’ve tried sticking to that diet, you’ve exercised, you have done all those things that trimmed you before………but now it’s not working. Whether you can’t do those things or you are doing them with no results …our Genesis Lipo program can help you achieve the look you desire. We have so many patients who come in complaining that their tummy pooch won’t go away or that the legs have gotten bigger and are looking like grandmas. Others complain about the sagging chin or the “bat-wing” look on the back of the arms. Some folks can’t loose those love handles and are tired of the muffin top look. Don’t despair. Genesis LipoSculpting can help.

What differs us from other lipo centers? We use a unique combination of Vaser ultrasonic fat dissolve combined with laser skin tightening to pre-treat your problem area prior to doing the lipo-suctioning. In addition we use a powered suction device called Tickle Lipo to assist in maximizing the amount of fat we remove from a given area. These three modalities in combination result in more fat removed and a more sculpted look. Best of all the suctioning is done through tiny puncture holes, not through an incision and is done without the use of general anesthesia. Genesis is the only local center offering this combination of technologies. Another big part of our LipoSculpting is fat transfer. This can be done to enhance volume loss in the face and hands due to aging or smoking, to re-volumize and reshape the breasts, or to enhance the size of the buttocks. Fat transfer is done by gently harvesting the fat prior to any laser work and then carefully

VIP Magazine | May 2017

placing it back in the desired area. In addition we add back your platelets to help stimulate associated stem cells to make vascular and structural support to the fat. After sculpting your new body we ask that you follow a high protein/low carb diet and wear a support garment that will further enhance your look while you are healing. Downtime for Lipo can vary from 1 to 5 days depending on the site done. Many of our patients report that after doing lipo they noticed a decreased appetite resulting in further weight loss. If you have ever wondered about getting Lipo then please consider Genesis Signature LipoSculpting. We offer free consultation where we can explain more about how we can help you achieve the look and shape you want. We want to help you get off what diet and exercise won’t. For more information, please visit our website at genesiscosmeticlasercenter.com. Call us at 843-669-2220 to schedule your appointment.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

FLORENCE COMMUNITY

Leadership Florence Identifing, cultivating and motivating new leadership in the Greater Florence area story by Rion McAllister With so many fun activities to choose from in May, don’t forget to leave some room on your dance card for the upcoming Leadership Florence’s Disco Ball! Topping the list of must attend summer functions, this year’s 2017 Leadership Florence class prepares to graduate and end the year by hosting an annual signature project that won’t soon be forgotten! In keeping with the spirit of the Leadership Florence directive, this outgoing class of 37 students will have us disco-dancing the night away while simultaneously raising money for class selected Florence area nonprofits. This is just one of the ways the Leadership Florence program has been designed to further enhance and develop program participants by enabling them the opportunity to invest into the Florence community. Developed by the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Florence has been designed as a nine-month program that looks to identify, cultivate and motivate new leadership for the Greater Florence Area. The program is one full day per month commitment that begins with a Meet & Greet in August and ends with graduation in June. Selected participants are given opportunities to increase their knowledge of the Greater Florence area and further develop leadership skills through community involvement and personal enrichment activities such as: attending a law enforcement ride-along, a City/County Council Meeting, and a Chamber Board Meeting. Opportunities are also available for students to attend a Building Bridges Diversity and Leadership Summit. To round out the experience, each graduating Leadership Class completes a class project during the program, in which the proceeds will be donated to the charity(s) of the class’s choosing. 58

VIP Magazine | May 2017

This year’s annual class project promises to be a fabulous event complete with dynamite-disco- dancing, heavy Hor D’ouvres, silent auction, wine pull, photo booth and complimentary valet (sponsored by M&L Premium Valet). Don your flashiest Disco gear as prizes will be awarded from Butler’s Fine Men’s Clothing and Pretty N’ Bliss for the best dressed male and female. The 2017 graduating class elected to split profits between the local non-profits, The Naomi project, Help4Kids and SNAC. So mark your calendars, get your tickets early, and come out and support the 2017 Florence Leadership class as they strive to give back to these amazing non-profits through a night of fantastic fun!

The Disco Ball will be held on May 18th from 7pm -10pm at the Water’s Building in Downtown Florence. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite. A link for purchase can also be found on the “Leadership Florence 2017 presents Disco Ball” Facebook page. For more information on any of the local non-profits or the Disco Ball Event email leadershipflorence2017@gmail.com or visit www.eventbrite.com. For more information on the Leadership Florence program, contact the Florence Chamber at (843) 665-0515.

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Charlotte Griffey First Bank- Evans Street Assistant Vice President

â&#x20AC;&#x153;First Bank Florence is full of excellent, and caring associates and Charlotte Griffey sets the bar for all of us. She is the most prompt, attentive, and expeditious employee that I have ever worked with and our clients would all second that!â&#x20AC;? from PAUL SEWARD First Bank, Area Executive

VIP Magazine | May 2017

Charlotte Griffey is no stranger to First Bank and the banking community. She has been a member of the First Bank family for over fifteen years and has been with the Florence branch for five years now. She has a passion for helping her customers which is very evident when you meet her! She enjoys working with her team at the W. Evans branch and ensures you that you will be well taken care of! Visit Charlotte today for all of your business banking needs.

2170 W. Evans St., Florence 843.669.4257 localfirstbank.com