June 2017 by VIP Magazine

ISSUE 19

JUNE CONTENTS 10 Launch The Coach Taft Watson Story

12 Innovate Marketing A Successful Future | FMU

14 Developing Downtown Lake City Venues

16 Experience Hartsville SCORE

18 Tech Savvy New Era of Marketing: Online Reviews

20 Health and Wellness Skin Cancer: Covering the Basics

22 Under the Dome Wilcox, Buyck, & Williams, P.A.

24 Business Spotlight Quality Service Company

26 Advocating Health Men’s Health | HopeHealth

29 Cover Story Moore Farms Botanical Garden

32 Paying It Forward Miracle League of Florence

34 Tax Prep Work Can Wait

36 Employee Spotlight Honda of SC | Tony Berry

38 Business Spotlight WaterWorks

48 Local Adventures Art & Ag Farm Tour

50 Local Adventures Piratesville Splash Pad

52 Local Adventures Lynches River County Park

54 Florence Community Chambers of Commerce

56 All Access Stokes Regional Eye Center

58 Business Spotlight Steger’s Complete Landscaping

60 Paying It Forward All 4 Autism

June 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 Proof Reader Sandy Welch

Contributing Photographers Captain Alan Barrett, USAF Jonathan Boatwright Heather Byrd Nancy Devon Carsten Bradley Lail Fred Salley Jeff Smith Michelle Springs Contributing Writers Sandra Boyington Kim Brauss Elizabeth Campbell, EA Ashley Elvington Shane Gebhards Sam Harrelson Iris D. Ignacio, M.D. Jack Muench Donna Tracy

Serving Florence, Hartsville, Darlington, Marion, Mullins, Lake City and the surrounding areas 2011-B Second Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29501 FIND US ON FACEBOOK

For advertising rates, call 843-687-4236.

COVER CONCEPT

This summer, we hope you plan your visit. Plan to visit one of the many wonderful, local, Pee Dee attractions. MOORE FARMS Botanical Garden decorates the cover with their colorful blend of exuberant plant displays. Thanks to Nancy Devon Carsten with NDC Photography for capturing these beautiful still images of the living museum.

VIP Magazine | June 2017

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

LAUNCH

Stacie Davis Creates a Film About a Local Legend

More Than A Coach: The Taft Watson Story Stacie Davis inside Centenary School Gym

story by Sam Harrelson

Photography by Jonathan Boatwright

To be a legend, one must be extraordinary. They must create a legacy big enough to move mountains and change everyone that they encounter. Coach Taft Watson has done just that. Mr. Watson is a highly esteemed member of his hometown community, a Deacon at his church in Mullins, SC, a retired, championship winning basketball coach, and a friend to many. On March 12, 1994, in Columbia, both boy and girl teams that Coach Watson coached won South Carolina High School League State Championship titles. This legendary day is what Coach Watson is best known for. Although he was offered college coaching positions after his big wins, he decided to remain at Terrell’s Bay until he retired. Taft Watson has not only been a coach, he has also been a friend, father figure, a man of great Christian faith, and leader to many in the community. Fast forward a few years and Stacie Davis, a then freshman at Clafin University has been given a writing assignment on “a significant person in my community.”

That’s when Stacie’s mother mentioned Taft Watson. Stacie then decided to meet and talk with Mr. Watson. Five pages later, Stacie had completed her assignment, but she kept writing until she reached 64 pages. She titled her short book, The House That Taft Built. She had always hoped that her book would become a film. Stacie and her sister attempted to contact many different production companies only to face shady deals, rejection, and sometimes silence. Rejection letters made Stacie feel as though maybe Coach Watson’s story wasn’t interesting enough, or maybe it was her writing that was not up to standard. It wasn’t until two years ago that a Christian comedian named Akintunde spoke to Stacie’s mother, Christine, who would not give up on her daughter’s story. When she pitched the plot to the comedian, he became very interested. Finally, everyone began preparing to create Coach Watson’s film. The hard work then began. To create the film, about a year’s worth of research, planning, fundraising and

“

I kept telling my players that it’s us against the world.

”

- Coach Taft Watson

VIP Magazine | June 2017

writing had to be done. Once filming began, the whole community of Mullins became involved as extras and anything else the production team needed. The Docudrama has been given the title “More Than a Coach: The Taft Watson Story”. Something the team feels is rarely seen in media and film anymore are faith based stories centered on men with great dignity and integrity. This story hopes to change that and show all that view it that no matter where you’re from, with dedication, consistency, and labor, you can make an impact and be acknowledged for your accomplishments just as Coach Taft Watson has been. When working on a project as large as creating a film there never seems to be enough time. Everyone is giving all that they can to see it come to fruition. Stacie says that “it takes time, prayer, and commitment.” There are always days when the work seems too heavy and no one wants to take the time to do it, but the passion for the project has to be the driving force. Now that a team has been assembled, all responsibilities for the film are divided between Stacie, Akintunde, Oak View Point Films, Christine, and a few others. Even though there were times that Stacie may have wanted to stop, she has remembered what her mother told her, “So what you get a rejection email from this person! There are more production companies out there that you haven’t contacted. Don’t stop because you didn’t like what was told to you - brush it off and keep going. That’s life.” Stacie credits Christine as being the true backbone of this story. Coach Watson’s story is expected to “reach the masses,” as Stacie says. She hopes that individuals will become intrigued and inspired by this man’s incredible life story. The team has faith that this film will do just that. On June 14th, More Than A Coach: The Taft Watson Story premieres at Swamp Fox theater in Florence for a screening with family & friends.

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

INNOVATE

marketing a

SUCCESSFUL FUTURE

How Francis Marion University’s 432 Marketing Management Class Can Benefit Your Business story by Ashley Elvington

I must admit, I’m a proud alumnus of Francis Marion University. I transferred during my junior year of college, and honestly, I wish I would have enrolled a lot sooner! Though my time there was short, I quickly fell in love with the university, as it not only consists of a faculty who truly cares about each student, the university also provides the tools necessary to build students into successful adults. Take FMU’s 432 Marketing Management class, for example. In a world with a rapidly changing economic environment, this class is designed to address the challenges of marketing, with an emphasis on analyzing internal and external marketing environments to extract info from raw marketing data. Through this class, students can apply knowledge and concepts of marketing while developing a marketing plan. Each year, a local business is chosen and the students develop a marketing strategy for them as part of a special project, a great tool for companies with small budgets to use at no cost. This past school semester, Dedicated Community Bank was chosen. Curt Derrick, Assistant Vice President of Dedicated Community Bank, shares, “This past semester, DCB partnered up with FMU to help us gain a better idea as to how to become more effective when marketing to the audience that we intend to attract as we continue to grow our brand. DCB is one of the

smallest community banks in SC, which obviously means that our resources are more limited than some of our competitors, but the group out at FMU did a wonderful job putting a presentation together for us to enhance our social media marketing along with providing some very creative ads for potential billboard spots that we hope to use this coming fall.” Marketing Professor Dr. Kay Lawrimore Belanger explains, “[When choosing a business to assist,] I evaluate several elements of the request: feasibility and relevance of the project. Is it a project that students have the skills to complete and could complete given the time constraints? Is the project relevant to a marketing course? I also consider if the company is willing to meet with students, answer questions, and attend the presentations, as well as evaluate if the company would actually use the students’ recommendations.” These projects are essential to the growth of students, as Dr. Belanger admits the benefits received from this project are more valuable than test development. “With these experiences, every student enhances his/her understanding of marketing theory. More importantly, the student gains professional experience with making decisions about the application of theory. The students recognize that recommendations should be creative and supported with information. Meanwhile, the client gains a better understanding of the millennial’s perspective.” Bill Hamilton, of New Generation Awning, recalls his time with the class when they were chosen as the project focus, “Dr. Kay’s marketing class did a wonderful job helping us build our marketing campaign. They identified the number of customers we have, number of competitors we have, and how to stand out in marketing to our potential customers. They helped us with our social media marketing and helped us jump the hurdles of cost that come along with marketing. They were very helpful with very good ideas. It seemed that all of Dr. Kay’s students were very up-to-date on their marketing skills. I enjoyed working with Dr. Kay, she found out what our marketing needs were and guided the students to tailor to those needs.”

VIP Magazine | June 2017

While positive feedback from each business is crucial, perhaps some of the most influential and inspiring feedback has been that of students. Briana Barzola shares, “This project was extremely helpful for my future employment. It was the most ‘hands-on’ type of project I worked on throughout my college career. The research we conducted, information we collected, and how we presented our findings are all extremely relevant to the real world and for our future marketing careers. The class produced material that DCB can actually use in the future, in hopes of improving their organization as a whole.”

This class is designed to address the challenges of marketing, with an emphasis on analyzing internal and external marketing environments to extract info from raw marketing data. JeVohna Manning has had a wonderful time creating billboards. “It was important that I considered the locations before I even designed them. I not only had to think creatively, but critically as well. I feel DCB will use my recommendations for community outreach. During the project, I found that clients trust banks more if they are involved in the local community. It seemed fitting to me that Dedicated Community Bank be involved in the community.” For Taylor Gray, the project has been rather challenging…but the rewards far exceed any obstacles faced. “I have never personally known much about the community banking industry, so it was vital that I learned as much as possible about the community banking industry and DCB itself to be knowledgeable enough to recommend viable marketing strategies. This project took me out of the comfort zone of everything I knew and challenged me to take on a whole new outlook on marketing. Differentiating yourself or your product from competition is one of the most important aspects in marketing. Since we were more or less ‘competing’ with our classmates, it was very important that we each thought outside of the box to differentiate ourselves from others in the class. The push and motivation Dr. Kay gave me and my classmates on a daily basis helped me produce products I never could have imagined. This project was by far the hardest I have completed, but it has taught me the most and has given me the ‘real world’ experience that I feel most students leave college craving.” June 2017 | VIP Magazine

DEVELOPING DOWNTOWN

Your Next Event Location

Lake City, SC Learn more about these venues at visitlakecitysc.com.

Event venues are a hot commodity! When looking for the perfect spot to host guests for weddings, business meetings, trade shows, etc., planners are in tune with floor plans, locations, and accommodations. Lake City’s revitalizations to historic buildings now offers an array of venues to fit every planner’s needs. Next time you find yourself gearing up to host a memorable event, think about “making your art” in the quaint town of Lake City.

The National Bean Market • (843) 374-1500 Built in 1936, The Bean Market has been renovated to serve as a unique and flexible space for conferences and meetings, weddings and receptions, parties, and even concerts! Featuring 10,000 square feet of space with various options to set up your event, including a 5800 square foot open floor, a 750 square foot stage with a 14-foot-high projection screen, catering kitchen, and banquet tables and chairs. The Bean Market rose to acclaim as the world’s largest truck auction of green beans in Lake City’s agricultural prime. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and now serves as one of the busiest event venues in Lake City.

Jones-Carter Gallery • (843) 374-1505 Housed in a former feed & seed store, The Jones-Carter Gallery is a state-of-the-art, Smithsonian-certified art exhibition gallery located in the heart of downtown Lake City. The gallery hosts several exhibitions throughout the year featuring local to major national artists, such as Francisco de Goya. The Jones-Carter Gallery opened in April of 2013, just in time to accept incoming artwork for ArtFields® (artfieldssc.org). For a most unique event venue, plan your smaller-scale corporate or civic meeting, or an enchanting catered dinner surrounded by the artwork from the most current exhibit.

The Stables at The Inn at the Crossroads • (843) 394-2100 The William McClam Livery Stables have been renovated to serve as an 8,000 square foot venue perfect for parties, receptions, and meetings. Featuring a full catering kitchen offering catering exclusively through The Inn at The Crossroads’ in-house restaurant, Crossroads on Main. Banquet tables and chairs are available onsite, and events may be catered for up to 250 people. Offsite catering available as well.

The R.O.B. • (843) 374-0171 The “Ragsdale Old Building”, now known as The R.O.B., was once a tobacco warehouse and a charcoal briquet factory. Newly renovated with modern public restrooms, this 23,000 square foot space now serves as an ideal venue for large scale weddings and parties. The largest “gallery space” during our annual ArtFields festivals also accommodates trade shows perfectly, with its open- concept warehouse style interior and a large parking lot for up to 500 with easy access to the facility.

Fire Tower Center • (843) 210-7582 The Fire Tower Center is available to rent for businesses, civic groups, garden clubs, or photography sessions. This “green” building has modern architecture with a traditional Southern feel that makes it the perfect venue for professional events. Options for rental spaces at the venue include the Event Room (up to 80 people), the Sun Room (up to 18 people), or an Outdoor Event Area (can accommodate a 50 x 100 foot tent). 14

VIP Magazine | June 2017

EXPERIENCE HARTSVILLE

SCORE

Service Corps of Retired Executives

Hartsville’s Chamber Helping Businesses Improve story by Heather Page

How do I expand my services and products into another territory? My business has grown exponentially in the last 12 months, so what advances should I be making with this new growth? I have a great idea for a start up business, but how do I get it started? Many of us have asked ourselves similar questions when faced with business ideas, adjustments, and growth. They are typically followed up with “I wish there was one entity that offered advice to all of my questions.” Unbeknownst to most, there is somewhere that offers all of these services, plus many more! Hartsville’s Chamber of Commerce offers a free and confidential service called SCORE, Service Corps of Retired Executives. SCORE services are available to individuals and businesses throughout the Pee Dee who need expert advice on starting a business or optimizing an existing business. Their counselors specialize in finance and accounting, IT, banking, human resources, legal structuring, operations and manufacturing, engineering and maintenance management, and much more. All counselors volunteer their time and are willing to meet with clients as many times as the client thinks is beneficial. Ruth Iseman, former executive with Bank of America, is one of the 2001 original SCORE members in Hartsville. She is known as the team’s ‘fearless leader.’ After being approached by then Hartsville Chamber President, Nancy McGee, to form the program, Iseman along with two others, Bill Timberlake and Wade Hicks, initiated SCORE of Hartsville. It is the only chapter in the Pee Dee Region and is under the umbrella of the Midlands chapter in Columbia, SC. What began with three members has grown to eight professionals offering a wide variety of expertise. 16

VIP Magazine | June 2017

Among their counselors is Ken Hughes, who worked with the IT department at Sonoco before retiring in 2003. Interestingly enough, Hughes was led to become a counselor with SCORE after inquiring into the group himself. After retirement, Hughes sought to start his own company where he offered his IT skills to other businesses. Approximately six months after meeting with the team and beginning his journey as an entrepreneur, he was approached by SCORE to become a counselor. Since his involvement, Hughes states, “We were privileged to work with many of the competitors and even winners from the Startsville competitions over the last several years. It has been rewarding to see these businesses grow and become successful.” Vern Myers, who is a former executive with Continental Can, describes a client’s first meeting with SCORE members as more of a courtship. “We find out who they are, what they do, and educate them on the benefits of SCORE and how we operate.” This initial meeting could be the first and only one, while the counselors meet with some individuals for up to three years. Again, it’s as long as the client is benefiting from the meetings. SCORE Counselors typically meet face-to-face with clients, or either work with them via email or phone correspondences. Iseman, Hughes, and Grady Sullivan, Engineering and Maintenance Consultant,

are the primary contacts for email correspondences. “However, there were a few times we met with clients on location,” says Charlie Johnson, former owner of Padgett Business Services, who spoke about the extent of services they provide as counselors of SCORE. “A group of us even visited a local prison. Many prisoners were uncertain of what services were available upon release. We were able to educate them on the steps to take once released, as well as provide books that would further direct them to life outside of prison.” The remaining SCORE counselors include Larry Gantt, business finance and accounting expert, Jerry Kershner, human resources expert, and Gordon McBride, attorney. This team of experts wants the business community to become aware of their services, not only for start up companies but existing businesses as well. They are available to oversee business plans, expansions, increasing product and reducing cost, and adding market share. Nationally, SCORE has helped 8.4 million small businesses such as Vera Bradley Designs and Jelly Belly Candy. It’s time to let the SCORE volunteers help you meet your business objectives.

Pictured l to r: Gordon McBride, Ken Hughes, Ruth Iseman, Vern Myers and Charlie Johnson (not pictured: Larry Gantt, Jerry Kershner and Grady Sullivan

To make a counseling appointment contact the Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce at (843) 332-6401 or admin@hartsvillechamber.org. June 2016 | VIP Magazine

TECH SAVVY

The New Era of Marketing story by Shane Gebhards

When you own a business, you know that online customer reviews are very influential. From Yelp to Facebook, Angie’s List to Google, people are sharing their experiences on everything, and what they say has an impact. These days, a Google review can shape your business far more than a Google Ad. According to multiple surveys, 90% of participants claimed that positive online reviews influenced their buying decision, and 86% said their decision was influenced by negative reviews. Many businesses focus on what to do about the one or two bad reviews, but the most effective way to combat a few negative words is to load up on the great reviews. This means you’ll need to encourage your happy customers to take the time to write about their experiences.

HERE ARE 6 TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED: 1 | Set Up Profiles Consider all the sites that are relevant to your business: Yelp, Angie’s List, Google Local, LinkedIn, TripAdvisor, and Facebook. There are over 300 sites you can potentially build a profile on but we recommend starting with the main ones first. 18

VIP Magazine | June 2017

2 | Ask Your Customers Want to know the best way to increase the number of reviews for your business? Just ask. Your customers understand how important reviews are to your business, and as long as you provide an excellent product or service, they won’t be annoyed if you ask for a review. Don’t wait too long: customers are more likely to give you feedback right away. The next time a customer compliments you via email, phone, or in person, mention that you’d appreciate if they left the same feedback in an online review on Google.

way to show your appreciation. You just need to make sure your offer is for writing a review, and not for writing a good review. Monthly giveaways, where you choose one reviewer at random, are effective ways to encourage reviews. 5 | Thank Your Reviewers If the review site allows it, thank each person who reviews your product or service. In addition, you can even surprise a top reviewer by sending them a discount code or freebie after they’ve posted a review. This simple act will turn a satisfied customer into an incredibly loyal customer.

3 | Make It Easy to Leave Reviews You want to make it as easy as possible for your customers to leave reviews. We always like to provide our clients with a direct link to their Google reviews section. This is a link they can easily email or give to any customer they would like to leave a review. You can create your own link here: https://support.google.com/ business/answer/7035772?hl=en

6 | Make Reviews a Part of Your Work Processes Make sure that all customer service and sales employees understand the importance of soliciting reviews from the customers they work with. Some companies choose to implement an incentive program where employees receive a cash bonus for any reviews they generate for the business.

4 | Incentivize Reviews Sometimes even your most satisfied customers need some extra incentive to take time out of their busy schedule to write a review. Offering a small incentive is a good

SVG Digital, Shane Gebhards C. 217.652.9676 O. 843.773.9900 shane@svgdigital.com www.svgdigital.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Skin Cancer Covering the Basics story by Iris D. Ignacio, M.D.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. When found early, skin cancer is one of the easiest cancers to cure, but left unchecked, it could lead to dire outcomes.

Many forms of treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapy, radiation, cryosurgery, topical medications and laser surgery, can be initiated depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

The most deadly type of skin cancer—melanoma—is also the least common, making up less than 5 percent of all skin cancer cases, according to the American Cancer Society. Melanoma tumors often appear brown or black, but sometimes look pink, tan or white. This cancer typically originates differently in men and women—often beginning on men’s chests or backs and women’s legs— but it can start anywhere. Light skin, family history or a previous diagnosis of melanoma contribute to increased risk.

Prevention Is the Best Medicine

Although melanoma accounts for more deaths, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) occur more frequently and carry equally negative prognoses if not treated early. BCC is usually caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure and typically looks like scars, shiny bumps, open sores, red patches or pink growths, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Unlike melanoma, BCC does not commonly metastasize, or spread, from the original cancer site to other areas of the body. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that an estimated 4 million cases of BCC are reported annually, making it the most common form of skin cancer.

• Use appropriate types and liberal amounts of sunscreen. Apply a handful of broad-spectrum sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to cover your arms, face, neck and legs, reapplying every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

SCC often develop on areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun but may originate anywhere, including the genitals or mucous membranes. Often, SCC looks like elevated growths with an indention in the middle, open sores, scaly red patches or warts, all of which may crust or bleed, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Out of the estimated 1 million cases of SCC reported annually, almost 8,800 result in death. 20

VIP Magazine | June 2017

A number of easy precautionary steps will help you reduce risk of skin cancer. Protecting yourself from the sun is the single best defense against skin cancer. Remember these simple things you can do to safely enjoy sun exposure: • Wear dark-colored clothes. Darker colors help block the sun’s ultraviolet UV rays. The ACS recommends hats with a 2- to 3-inch brim around the hat’s circumferences to protect ears and necks.

• Don’t be fooled into thinking cloud cover protects you. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and UV rays penetrate clouds. The ACS suggests the shadow test: if you’re taller than your shadow, the sun’s rays are at their peak, so take the proper precautions. • Don’t use tanning beds. Tanning beds emit UV rays and have been linked to increased melanoma risk.

Dr. Ignacio is board certified in Family Medicine. He is associated with Pee Dee Family Physicians, an affiliate of Carolinas Medical Alliance. Dr. Ignacio is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, please call 843-664-9696.

• • •

UV exposure accounts for 50 to 90 percent of all skin cancers, according to the World Health Organization. Authors of an article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association report that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetimes. Forty to 50 percent of all Americans who live to be 65 years old will be diagnosed with BCC or SCC at least once, according to the National Cancer Institute. Sources: who.int, cancer.org, skincancer.org, cancer.gov

Know Your Moles The first line of defense against melanoma is simple and free: Be aware of the marks on your body and watch for changes. Monthly self-exams play an integral role in prevention. The Skin Cancer Foundation provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to properly checking your body for potential threats, as well as a downloadable body map on which you can plot your natural, benign skin marks. When conducting self-examinations, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends following a simple mnemonic device: “A-B-C-D-E” to differentiate between normal and abnormal moles. A = Asymmetry. Pay attention to any mole or birthmark with edges that do not match on both sides. B = Border. Look for blurred, irregular, notched or ragged edges. Redness or new swelling outside the border of the skin may also signify cancer. C = Color. Normal moles are consistent in their coloration. Moles that have color changes, such as black or brown patches or even blue, pink, red or white areas, should be checked by a physician. Also, look for color that spreads outside a mole’s border into the skin surrounding it. D = Diameter. Although melanomas can be smaller than 1/4 inch, moles larger than this may be cancerous. E = Evolution. This is where knowing your body is vital. If moles change their color, shape or size, this could indicate cancer. The ACS also warns about itchiness, pain or tenderness, chronic sores, and changes, including bleeding, new bumps or nodules, oozing, or scaliness—on the surface of the mole. Anytime you observe a suspicious mole or skin mark, consult a physician immediately to ensure it isn’t cancerous.

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

UNDER THE DOME

Prenuptial AGREEMENT Providing Guidance and Certainty in an Uncertain World story by Jack Muench Concentrating in Corporate Law, Tax Law and Estate Planning

This article focuses on the prenuptial agreement, a type of contract upon which we are frequently consulted. This article is based in part on an article authored by Jeffrey A. Weisland in the May 11, 2017, Wealth Management newsletter. Initially, it must be admitted that prenuptial agreements create feelings of unhappiness in those involved in the process. But a pre-nup is more than merely a contract for the wealthy or overbearing or an admission of failure before a marriage takes place. In today’s world people are getting married later in life and accordingly have their own assets and businesses; they frequently have children of other unions to be concerned with. A prenuptial agreement can help allay the logical concerns of both parties about the freakish and undesirable results of unaddressed concerns. First, it must be noted that pre-nups cannot address issues such as child support, custody, or temporary support or temporary attorney’s fees during the divorce process. Pre-nups can and do protect against characterizing premarital property as marital property (which is subject to division), property division, alimony, and spousal support. Pre-nups can also address so-called “elective share” issues, whereby a disadvantaged spouse can claim a significant portion of a deceased spouse’s estate despite the express wishes of the deceased spouse.

Following are a list of do’s and don’ts in approaching the pre-nup process. Even the most carefully crafted agreement can be compromised or vitiated entirely by a failure or a refusal to deal adequately with those issues.

j Procrastination is not your friend. The single biggest problem in making a pre-nup effective is a failure to start the planning and drafting processes early. Waiting until just before a marriage to spring the idea of a pre-nup could create a so-called “contract of adhesion,” whereby one party possesses so much power over the other party and the process involved that the contract can’t be considered a meeting of the minds and thus is unenforceable.

k Full and complete financial disclosure. It is axiomatic that, in order for a party to waive his right to alimony, certain kinds of property division, or his elective share, the waiving party must have an accurate picture of the other party’s assets. Indeed, starting too late in the process also essentially guarantees that “full and complete disclosure” is unlikely to take place. Understating the value of a significant asset or deleting it entirely provides a way for a judge to find that a party contesting the pre-nup will prevail because he did not understand the nature of the other party’s assets and what he was giving up.

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

l Independent representation is essential. Even the best drawn pre-nups are complicated, legaleseridden, highly interrelated documents. Typically, most laypeople are incapable of fully understanding them. Accordingly, in order that a party seeking to uphold the validity of a pre-nup will prevail, she must be able to show that the other party understood the agreement. Probably the best way to help evidence that understanding is to show that both parties had independent, competent, engaged legal counsel.

m Address critical property issues specifically.

Critical items to be addressed in pre-nups include inherited assets or family business assets. These and other critical items must be addressed clearly and absolutely so that there is no ambiguity about how these assets will be treated in a potential divorce or upon death.

n Provide funding mechanisms for divorce payouts.

All parties involved should ensure that the promises made in the pre-nup can be realized. Accordingly, it is often appropriate to consider the purchase of life insurance to ensure that the desired financial results can be attained.

o Schedule the prenup signing to occur with

a court reporter and videographer present.

Frequently, the party who considers himself a disadvantaged party in a divorce proceeding where a pre-nup is in existence will claim that he was forced to sign it against his will. We invariably insist that the document execution be videotaped with a court reporter present. That way, we can question the parties, on camera, as to their intent and their understanding. A party who appears well-informed and essentially carefree during the execution process will have a very hard time later claiming that the videotape was inaccurate and that his arm was being twisted in order to force him to sign the agreement. Prenuptial agreements, despite their reputation as tools of oppression and destroyers of romantic ideals, provide guidance and certainty in an uncertain world. Where inherited assets or family business assets are part of the mix, entering into such agreements should be considered. The process must be started well before the wedding date, adequate financial disclosures must be given, each party must have independent representation, and the agreement should contain funding mechanisms to ensure that the promises contained there can be carried out. May 2017 | VIP Magazine

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Chuck Polk and Chris McDonald

After 10 years’ experience of working with various companies in the HVAC industry, Chris McDonald decided to open his own business. Therefore in 2003, he established Quality Service Company. In the earlier days, Chris worked on his own for several years as he built a dedicated customer base before eventually hiring his own staff to assist with the growing business. In 2013, Chris finalized a business partnership with Chuck Polk, who previously worked for Trane and has over 20 years’ worth of experience in the HVAC field. Chris knew Chuck before the days of Quality Service, as they worked together at Summerford in Florence, South Carolina. They also worked together at Cayce Company before separating to different businesses. Over the years, the two developed a mutual respect for one another due to a similarity in morals, values, and work ethic. It only made sense for these two to join forces and run a company together! With honesty and integrity at the forefront, it’s no wonder why Quality Service Company is the successful business it is today. As mentioned previously, the business grew over time. From 2003 to 2010, Chris operated the company from his home with a shop in the backyard, one truck to get him to and from each appointment, and his wife assisting with bookkeeping. Chris eventually hired a few good men to help fabricate duct work and install units, however his own work schedule continued to consist of seven days a week. In 2010, Chris relocated the business to its current residence on National Avenue between Florence and Darlington. Enter Chuck and the rest is history! The company now has 12 employees who work in the field, a full-time salesperson, and three fulltime office staff members. Chris now handles sales and installations, while Chuck manages service.

Defining Quality Service in the Pee Dee story by Ella Lawson

Quality Service Company

2208 National Avenue Florence, SC | 843.393.5603 office@qualityservicecompany.net

VIP Magazine | June 2017

In addition to serving the community in a business aspect, Quality Service Company is also passionate about charity work. In the past, the team has donated and installed an HVAC system to a family in need, which is done by a submission of names through the business’s website and a vote for the winner based on the severity of their needs. They have also participated in House of Hope projects, assisted local sports and athletic teams, contributed yearly to the Florence County Disabilities Foundation and have been the underwriters for the Florence Little Theatre in conjunction with Johnstone Supply. If you ask Adriane Woodrum, Manager of Quality Service, it’s easy working for Chris and Chuck, as they set the standard for exceptional employers. She shares, “I’m the biggest fan of Quality Service Company. Chris and Chuck are two of the most honest, reliable, hardworking, trustworthy people I know. They are the epitome of ‘say what you mean/mean what

you say.’ They are passionate about this company and what it stands for. They understand that reputation is everything. Positive feedback and referrals from customers are great and keep the business growing and succeeding, but understanding and respecting that one dissatisfied customer is bigger than ten satisfied customers is what keeps the doors open. Chris and Chuck always want to make sure that every customer is happy, not only with the finished product we leave behind, but also with the performance and attitudes of our employees. They understand that the employees make the company and are the face of Quality Service Company. One thing that is important to Chris and Chuck is that the employees feel appreciated and respected. They are always trying to find ways for the employees to grow and advance.” Her sentiments are proven even more true by the mission statement and value statement of Quality Service Company, found on the office walls, on their t-shirts, and business cards: “Through great employees, we will continue to grow our trusted name by delivering exceptional service through honesty and integrity. Quality Service Company believes in always doing the right thing-for our customers and our employees. We believe in doing everything with honesty and integrity. · Pride in the products we provide · Absolute honesty and integrity · Teamwork is the source of our strength · Provide our employees unlimited opportunity for growth

· Uphold the highest level of confidentiality for our customers” Talk about the definition of quality service, found right here at home in the Pee Dee!

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

ADVOCATING HEALTHCARE

Advocating Men’s Health WITH ALAN BARRETT, MSPAS story by Donna Tracy, HopeHealth photo by Bradley Lail

A father, a brother. A youth soccer coach. A physician’s assistant, an Air National Guard captain. A man. These are all roles that mold Alan Barrett, a health care provider at the HopeHealth Medical Plaza in Florence.

50, 60 years old, the biggest concerns that drive them in are aches and pains and their romantic lives when things are not working so well. But they’re not taking care of themselves in such a way that everything should work.”

Barrett earned a masters degree in psychology from The Citadel before deciding to refocus his career in medicine. Inspired by his sister, a provider in the Columbia area, Barrett said he enjoyed his work as a mental health counselor but always knew he wanted to go further and entered the Medical University of South Carolina to pursue a career as a physician assistant.

To make sure his own body is running as smoothly as a wellmaintained vehicle, Barrett follows an exercise routine that suits his lifestyle. He said finding the routine that suits you is important; some people are gogetters who will, and can, routinely run 5K, 10K and marathon races. Others just want to stay healthy. No matter what exercise level you are, it is most important to just develop an active lifestyle.

To successfully juggle his various roles, Barrett keeps his health a priority saying our bodies are no different from motor vehicles that must be taken in for tune-ups every so often. He stays active, visits his own provider regularly, and gets his recommended health screenings. “If you want to maintain a highperformance car, you have to do the tune-ups and have to take care of it, and then it will perform like you want it to,” noted Alan. “When I get my male patients coming in who are 40, 26

VIP Magazine | June 2017

be balanced, and the best way to keep balanced is through routine and making activity a conscious part of your life every day and every moment.” Staying healthy means paying attention to the little things such as electing for an egg omelet instead of a bowl of cereal that is loaded with sugar, and walking up the stairs instead of using the elevator. The small decisions we make throughout the day add up. By being aware of time management and mindful of those little things goes a long way to improving, as well as maintaining, health.

Other factors Barrett considers important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle? Keeping a healthy weight, getting six to eight hours of quality sleep, and paying attention to your diet. “Not paying attention to these factors can mean weight goes up, blood pressure goes up, cholesterol goes up, blood sugar goes up, testosterone goes down, and everything falls apart,” he said. “Our chemical pathways need to

Military photo courtesy of Captain Alan Barrett, USAF

Barrett’s Tips for Staying Healthy a Get 6-8 hours of quality sleep a Your day doesn’t start when you wake up. It

starts when you go to sleep. Overnight your body is still active: your blood sugars are still leveling, your hormones are leveling. If you wake up the wrong way you are already off to a bad start and setting yourself up for failure.

a Stay hydrated a Make sure you are drinking a sufficient amount of water and not drinking your calories. Our bodies are made up of more than 60 percent water so giving it what it is made of is important. The calories in soda, sweet tea, and other drinks add up.

a Fuel yourself through the day a Make sure you are eating at least three meals per

day and including a sufficient amount of protein and fiber in your diet. Most American men don’t get enough protein and fiber and consume too many carbohydrates.

a Stay active every day a Getting up and moving throughout the day can do

as much for you as a session in the gym. Guidelines say we should get 10,000 steps each day so find ways to be active even at the office. Make use of your lunch hour with a short workout in the hallway.

a Change your habits a It’s hard to make the transition from additive

substances like sugar, fat, and nicotine. You have to have at least two to four weeks of conscious effort for it to become easier to grab water, fruits, and vegetables instead of a candy bar and a bag of chips. The longer you are separated from them, the less dependent your body is on them, the easier it becomes, and the more exercise and healthier selections become your habit.

a Know it’s ok to say “No” a When you’re invited out to do things, sometimes it’s better to say no and take care of your house and home and yourself.

a Schedule your tune up a Visit your primary care provider regularly and get

your recommended screenings. Just because you feel healthy and look healthy on the outside, it’s important to verify that you are as healthy on the inside. Many issues, such as high cholesterol and hypertension, can be identified through screenings before they have noticeable physical impact on your body. June 2017 | VIP Magazine

COVER STORY

Moore Farms Botanical Garden offers 65 acres of beautiful horticultural displays that serve for education, research and conservation, and community outreach. The Garden was founded in 2002 by South Carolina native Darla Moore as she began transforming her family’s croplands into a place of beauty. She quickly saw her garden’s potential of being more than a personal place of refuge, but one she could share with visitors to enjoy and learn about horticulture. Ms. Moore was determined the garden “would become a gift to the ages - an enrichment to the lives of others.” Sixteen years later, Moore Farms Botanical Garden (MFBG) has grown beyond expectation. Once carpeted with row crops, the garden is now flourishing with beautiful specialty gardens and blooming ornamental plants. Over the years, the living museum has been home to more than 10,000 different plant specimens. These days the Garden’s collection consists mostly of plants that perform well in the southeast, specifically those that thrive in eastern South Carolina. Aside from maintaining the entire 600 acre farm land, MFBG has a “fantastic partnership with both the City of Lake City and the Lake City Community Development Office to create landscapes downtown that both inspire and excite our residents,” says Rebecca Turk, Education and Events Manager of MFBG. “Being able to support our community by beautifying these public spaces is not only rewarding, but a large part of our mission.” Katie Dickson, Senior Horticulturist, works closely with the downtown landscape crew. She adds, “Our staff works hard to create miniature Moore Farms Botanical Gardens throughout Lake City. It’s neat that we are a garden that has a hand in an urban area.”

Photography by Nancy Devon Carsten

The MFBG property has multiple events scheduled throughout the year for visitors to enjoy, as well as adult and youth classes for those eager to learn. The Fire Tower Center located on site is available for rent to businesses, civic groups, garden clubs, or photography sessions. The “green” building offers modern architecture with a traditional Southern feel that makes it the perfect venue for professional events. With so much to offer in such unique atmosphere, it’s time to “Plan Your Visit!” June 2017 | VIP Magazine

Green Practices & Land Management For years the MFBG team has maintained a green roof garden on the maintenance facility building where they investigated which species performed well under South Carolina weather conditions. However, this roof doesn’t share the guidelines as typical green roofs across and outside of the country; it’s heavily planted with a large diversity of plants; it’s irrigated as desired with recycled water; and the roof slope and depth are far greater than common green roofs. In March of 2015, the MFBG team broke ground on a green roof trial garden. Twelve structures measuring 10’ x 15’ were constructed to mimic the majority of green roofs commonly found in the industry. Their goal is to produce a proven plant list that can be recommended, with confidence, to the green roof industry and interested professionals for use on green roofs in Southeastern climates. The research gathered will help MFBG be the first institution that promotes good plant selection through green roof trials. To learn more on this topic, visit www.moorefarmsbg.org/green-roof-trial-garden/. Water recycling is the most practical way for MFBG to properly hydrate plants. Since well and city water contain chemicals and minerals that could damage plants, cisterns sit throughout the property collecting clean rain water for plant irrigation. The entire MFBG property has slowly evolved into a ‘green’ space. The maintenance facility, built in 2011, is oriented to maximize the seasonal heating and cooling effects of the sun, and the Fire Tower Center operates on a geothermal system for its heating and cooling needs. Forest and habitat restoration or farmland cover the 535 acres that surround the 65 acres of cultivated garden space. Their habitat improvement program has restored this land to represent it’s origin. Loblolly pines and other weedy species were replaced with thousands of long leaf pines, allowing native grasses and perennials to be reintroduced to the area that was once chocked with lespedeza and privet. “It’s an essential part of our mission to make sure this land is restored back to a more natural and diverse state,” says Rebecca Turk.

MFBG Family The extensive property along with its outside services is maintained by a small staff with a tremendous work ethic. Administration, horticulturists, growers, and the maintenance team work diligently designing and creating spaces for visitors to marvel.

“I enjoy working on the Moore Farms property because we are able to do a lot of new things; creating new landscape designs, opposed to just maintaining existing plants.” - Brendan Huggins, Horticulture Supervisor

VIP Magazine | June 2017

Photography by Nancy Devon Carsten

Learn to Grow Grow to appreciate the natural world through Moore Farms Botanical Garden’s many educational classes and workshops. Their professional staff, first rate facilities, and beautiful setting offer the perfect learning environment for all ages. Adult Classes: June 3 - The Art and Science of Plant and Garden Photography June 10 - Propagation 101 July 8 - Let’s Make Herbal Oils and Vinegars July 20 - A Walk in the Tropics July 29 - Gardening in the South Family Programs: July 17 - Spring Series: Gone Fishing July 22 - Summer Series: Super Tasters Youth Camps: June 12-16 - Garden Explorers Camp June 19-23 - Garden Detectives Camp June 26-30 - Culinary Camp Every Tuesday & Thursday, July 11-August 10 - Dig It! Garden Apprenticeship Field Trips: Schools are welcomed to bring students to experience a hands-on learning approach of the natural world at MFBG. School programs are led by a professional staff and cover a range of subjects that correlate with South Carolina Academic Standards. For more information, contact Kelli Meeker at kmeeker@moorefarmsbg.org.

Upcoming Event September 9 MFBG 4th Annual Beer Fest Noon to 5:00 pm Enjoy beers from over 35 local and regional craft brewers while listening to live music by the Jebb Mac Band. All ticket proceeds will be donated to the Florence County Disabilities Association. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at moorefarmsbg.org.

Moore Farms Botanical Garden is excited to announce that Carlo A. Balistrieri has been selected as their new Executive Director. His wide array of experience and enthusiasm for the public horticulture industry will help grow the garden to reach ©Aron Fazekas the next level of excellence. Carlo has previously held numerous prestigious positions within the industry such as the President and CCO of The Botanical Gardening Group, Vice-president of Preservation for the Garden Conservancy, and Head of Horticulture at the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG). He went to RBG from a stint as Executive Director of the Gardens at Turtle Point in Tuxedo Park, New York where he developed a private botanical garden. He began his public garden career as Curator of the Rock Garden at The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx, New York. He is a professional garden photographer, writer, speaker, …and a lawyer with nearly two decades of private practice experience including a specialty in the international trade in rare plants.

Moore Farms Botanical Garden

100 New Zion Rd. | Lake City, SC 843-210-7582 | INFO@MOOREFARMSBG.ORG

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

PAYING IT FORWARD

Jackie Hoch, Evelyn Scarborough and Matthew Elliott

THE MIRACLE LEAGUE OF FLORENCE A Dream Come True story by Heather Page

The Miracle League of Florence received great news this past April; The Bruce Lee Foundation donated $300,000; the Betty S. Campbell Foundation donated $250,000; and Florence County donated $45,000 and space at the Greenwood Athletic Park. It was an emotional announcement for Miracle League board members and the families supported through this nonprofit, because their dream of constructing a safe field for players had been realized. Savannah Grove has been extremely generous offering their fields to the organization for the last five seasons. “We are so very appreciative of the support we have received from the fields organizers,” says Vickie Elliott, Miracle League board member. However, baseball fields aren’t designed to accommodate wheelchairs and crutches. The new field, expected to be open by October of 2017, will have a special rubberized surface that will accommodate athletes who need the assistance of wheelchairs and walkers, as well as create much less rainout games compared to regular dirt baseball fields. On May 23rd, a ground breaking ceremony was held at the new field’s location off of Pamplico Highway. In addition to a new field, there are two other projects to complete their Miracle League dreams. First priority, 32

VIP Magazine | June 2017

after completing the field, will be to add a ML field house which will include a small concession stand, storage for equipment, family room facility, and several restrooms. The cost on a project of this magnitude could be up to $200,000, that’s where they need the continued support from donors. Future goals for the board is to also design an ADA approved playground for athletes and their families. “We are beyond excited of the growth since the Miracle League of Florence began,” says Elliott. “The first weekend we had 20 kids play, that’s when we decided to form a board and start a league. The leagues opening season was in the fall of 2014; we had 44 kids registered. 2017 spring season was our largest yet with 118 kids registered!” As the team gears up to make their final laps around the Delmae/Savannah Grow Complex diamond, please come out to support! Players will have a two inning game on June 10th that begins at 9 a.m. and is followed with an awards ceremony and cook out. “It is truly a blessing to see the smiles on not only the athletes’ faces, but also their families.” It’s an opportunity where we can all take part in a “Dream come true.”

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

TAX PREP

Remember,

WORK CAN

WAIT story by Elizabeth K. Campbell, EA

With Father’s Day quickly approaching I cannot help but to think about my own Dad. He built our accounting firm from the ground up, working crazy hours but still managed to make me princess of his world. I am sure that juggling a growing business with a daddy’s girl was not easy, in fact, I will be honest, I was high maintenance. But he did it, and today I see more and more men in the business world choosing to be active in their children’s lives rather than being the absentee workaholic. Maybe this is because of the growing trend of men working from home or the number of dads stepping into the stay at home position. Maybe, just maybe, they are learning from the generations before; copying the good and rectifying the bad in hopes of a better family dynamic for their children and grandchildren. Much of my dad’s business advice is applicable in the business world as well as in family life: Never make a decision out of anger. Step back. Walk away. Put whatever it is on hold and catch your breath. Once your head is clear, think it through, and then and only then, can you make a rational decision. It may be the same decision you were about to make at the peak of anger but the difference is that now it is a rational decision. It takes a much wiser person to hold themselves back and make one solid decision than to make a decision out of anger and then going through the time and trouble to rectify it. Life is short. Don’t spend it correcting mistakes that could have been prevented – instead, spend that time being a fantastic Dad! Lead by example. Do not expect others to do something that you have not done yourself; boy did my Dad believe in this one. Not only did I start in the file room but I am 100% sure he would have told me to pick another career if I had not been meeting his expectations. When you set the tone by your actions people will respect it and rise to the challenge. Our generation needs to bring respectful children up so that they are ready for the challenge of becoming future leaders. Step one of that begins with fathers leading by example at home. 34

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This is the big one. The one I am seeing fathers in the business world making an impact with – keep your life balanced. You have to learn to balance your family with your career or you will never be fulfilled in life. Real success comes in putting your family first. It means knowing when to cut the ringer off of your phone and setting parameters on business overflowing into family time. Technology makes this hard when we can shoot a quick email and that be one less thing we have to do tomorrow. However, not doing this means one less thing a Dad can do with his child today. You CAN do it all with time, practice, and balance. Relax and enjoy being a father every day. Your career will still be there once your children go to college. Your time with them is precious and can never be replaced. Be a dad your child will be proud of when they are old enough to see the impact you had on their lives. I hope you all get some really cool ties, snuggie blankets, and homemade mugs this Father’s Day that you can take into work and show off!

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

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Tony Berry Upholding the Honda Philosophy story by Heather Page

Since Honda was founded nearly 60 years ago, the company has taken an aggressive approach to securing an ethical relationship with the community, as well as within the company’s operations. When Honda of South Carolina Mfg., Inc. (HSC) was established here in the Pee Dee in 1998, the Honda philosophy followed. Since inception, their goal has been to maintain the highest quality of compliance and ethics. To ensure these practices were fulfilled, competent associates have been set into place to create a secure foundation for the company to follow. As most HSC associates have been established with the local company for the majority of its existence, one role recently transitioned into new leadership when Tony Berry took over the position of Compliance and Ethics Administrator, joining a powerful team of ethical professionals across Honda’s operations in North America.

As the previous officer retired, Steve Smith, Vice President of HSC since 2014, now serves as the Compliance and Ethics Officer. He began his career with Honda in 1980 as a production associate at the Marysville Motorcycle Plant (MMP) in Ohio and was promoted to Senior Manager of the MMP New Model Center in 2006. Smith’s long standing career with the company gave him the necessary experience on Honda’s high standards of legal compliance and business ethics. With perfect timing, another door opened for HSC with the hiring of Tony Berry as their new Compliance and Ethics Administrator. Tony is a barred Georgia attorney and a Certified Fraud Examiner with 11 years of combined compliance experience within the government and financial sector. After retiring from his previous role, Tony began looking for his next opportunity. He said, “I began my career search with a simple mission - find a great fit within a global company where I could use my skills and education to benefit the company and grow as a person.” Honda’s philosophy of “doing the right thing for our customers, suppliers, associates, and communities” coincided with Tony’s personal and career goals. He particularly appreciated Honda’s high expectations set for associates - to understand their individual responsibility to ensure compliance and pursue best practices throughout the company. HSC’s nearly 1,000 associates have welcomed Tony to their team. Tony said, “It is clear that everyone at HSC believes in the Honda philosophy, and the statements are not just ‘feel good’ statements that management wants society to believe.”HSC has an open door policy that attracted Tony during his initial interview and walkthrough of the manufacturing company.

VIP Magazine | June 2017

do we want any contact info?

nfo?

Photography by Jeff Smith

left: Tony Berry, Compliance & Ethics Adminstrator right: Terrance Wright and Berry

“The administration area is very unique to anything I have ever seen. The area is a very large room with desks touching, there are no offices, no partitions, and everyone, including the president of HSC, sits within the room as one team.” -Tony The Honda atmosphere is refreshing to Tony, as someone who believes in the true value of teamwork. Tony’s goal is to serve the associates during his time with HSC. He believes the most critical role he plays as C&E Administrator is gaining trust and allowing access. “I walk the entire plant everyday with the intention of meeting at least one new person.” Tony believes that accessibility is paramount to a sound working Compliance & Ethics program, and one of his first steps is to ensure associates know they can reach out to him. Tony wants “HSC associates to understand that I am first ‘Tony’ and second the C&E Administrator, and that I am a familiar face who can be trusted.”

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Nicole Fazekas & Amanda Lockamy - Florence office staff

A Family Business of High-Quality Pool Services story by Kim Brauss

WaterWorks Pools and Spas services range from pool cleanings to renovations and everything in between - liners and replastering. What’s more: It’s family-owned and -operated locally. The pool business is multigenerational for the Princes. WaterWorks owner and CEO Eric Prince grew up in the swimming pool business for his grandfather’s company. In 2002, Prince started WaterWorks and in 2010 opened a retail store. “(Eric Prince) prides himself on the quality of products and services his company provides. He is fueled by finding the latest innovations in the swimming pool industry including energy efficient products,” according to the company’s website, WaterWorksCompany.com. Today, his wife, brother, sister, and father take part in the family business of highquality pool construction, renovations, cleanings, and other pool and spa services. Eric’s wife, Erin, handles marketing and merchandising, “bringing in new products to give consumers in our local area a nice merchandise assortment that complements pools and outdoor living.” Eric’s sister, Whitney, started in their grandfather’s store, as well. She is the General manager at WaterWorks. Their brother, Jonathan, is Lead Service Technician. As an expert in his field, he believes in explaining pool issues and resolutions with owners so they can be better informed and served. To round out the family dynamic of the team, their retired father is the office assistant. The rest of the team are integral members, including a construction manager, technician, assistant manager as well as scheduler. WaterWorks Pools and Spas can accommodate any pool or spa need with their wide array of residential and commercial services and products in and around the Sumter, Columbia, Florence, and Myrtle Beach areas.

“Fabulous owner, amazing staff, and expert workers on my property. High quality, fast and clean installation of my in-ground pool. I absolutely recommend WaterWorks! You will not be disappointed!” - A. Blodzinski, happy customer

Florence: 2251 W Palmetto St | (843) 799-0838 or (843) 713-0023 Sumter: 1236 Alice Drive | (803) 469-6617 | FlorencePools.com 38

VIP Magazine | June 2017

Hours: Mon-Fri 9a-6p Sat 10a-2p

AROUND TOWN

Fete en Blanc The Fete en Blanc was held at SiMT on Thursday, April 27th. The Parisian-style party hosted attendees dressed in white to help raise money for Lighthouse Ministries.

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

photography by True Light Photography 40

VIP Magazine | June 2017

Bone-E-Fit Locals gathered on May 4th in Downtown Florence to show support to the Florence Area Humane Society.

Photography by True Light Photography

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

photography by True Light Photography 42

VIP Magazine | June 2017

The Disco Ball The Leadership Florence Class of 2017 presented The Disco Ball on Thursday, May 18th at the Waters Building in Downtown Florence. The event benefited local charities, The Naomi Project, SNAC and Help4Kids. Dancing, a silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvre and “Best Disco Attire” contest for enjoyed by all.

photography by True Light Photography

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

HAPPENINGS

FLORENCE FEATURED EVENT

Special Olympics Gold Medalist will throw the first pitch at Florence RedWolves Game!

Tuesday, June 6 First Bank will be hosting the Florence County Disabilities and Special Needs Board on Tuesday, June 6, at the Florence RedWolves Baseball game. Many Miracle League softball players will be hand to cheer on the RedWolves and to support the three gold medal winners who competed in the Winter Special Olympics in Austria. Each Special Olympian will have the opportunity to throw out the first pitch to get the game started off right! This is an excellent opportunity to show your support for these individuals, by coming out to the game to cheer on these very special people and the Florence RedWolves.

For more information, you can visit the website at www.FCDFoundation.org, email flodisfoundsc@yahoo.com or call the Disabilities Foundation office at (843) 374-2641 or 662-4021.

VIP Magazine | May 2017

1.......................................................................................................................... FSD1 High School Graduations | Civic Center Wilson 8a; SF 12p; WF 4p Florence Redwolves 7p 6......................................................................................................................... Florence Welcoming Club Monthly Meeting | 7p Florence Redwolves 7p 8......................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 9......................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 10....................................................................................................................... Cruisin’ Downtown Florence @ 3p Da Make Me Dance Summer Jam @ Civic Center 7p 11........................................................................................................................ Florence Redwolves 7p Bach Fest Florence @ FMU PAC 7:30p 15....................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p Bach Fest Florence @ FMU PAC 7:30p 16....................................................................................................................... An Evening with Edwin McKain @ FMU PAC 7:30p 17........................................................................................................................ Pedal for PADD – Downtown 10a-1p 18....................................................................................................................... Happy Father’s Day! 19....................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 21........................................................................................................................ Summer Begins! Florence Redwolves 7p 23....................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 25....................................................................................................................... An Evening with Anthony Hamilton @ Civic Center 27....................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 29...................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 30...................................................................................................................... Florence After Five: Carolina Breakers | Downtown 5:30p WEEKLY EVENTS Wednesdays.................................................................................................. Wine Down Wednesday | Dolce Vita 4p Thursdays....................................................................................................... Trivia Night | Southern Hops 7p Saturdays........................................................................................................ City Center Farmer’s Market | Downtown 9a

JUNE 2017 CALENDAR OF EVENTS DARLINGTON 3............................................................................................................................................. Pee Dee Land Trust Annual Picnic | Mandeville Manor

HARTSVILLE 1.............................................................................................................................................. Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p 2............................................................................................................................................. Small Business Support Meeting | Hartsville Chamber 9a-10a 7............................................................................................................................................. Coffee With A Cop | Magnolia Senior Village Apt. 10a-12p 8............................................................................................................................................. Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p Annual Photography Exhibit & Competition | 5:30p-7:30p 10........................................................................................................................................... Screen on the Green: The Jungle Book | Burry Park 9p-11:30p 11............................................................................................................................................ Hartsville Farmers Market | Downtown 9a-1p Gospel in the Park | Pride Park 5p-8p Screen on the Green: The Jungle Book | Burry Park 9p-11:30p 12........................................................................................................................................... Toastmasters Anniversary Open House | Black Creek Arts 6:15p 15........................................................................................................................................... Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p Connections After Hours: North Industrial Machine 5:30-7p 21........................................................................................................................................... Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p Red Cross Blood Drive | EBC Library 1p-6p 22.......................................................................................................................................... Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p 24.......................................................................................................................................... Screen on the Green: The Secret Life of Pets | Burry Park 9p-11:30p

LAKE CITY 4............................................................................................................................................. Cinderella Kids | Blanding Street Auditorium 7:30p 10........................................................................................................................................... Propagation 101 | MFBG 9:30a Beaded Keychain Animals | Olanta Public Library 11a 17........................................................................................................................................... Spring Series: Gone Fishing | MFB 28.......................................................................................................................................... Mommy and Me | Polyphony Music Therapy 2:30p

MULLINS 3............................................................................................................................................. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cruise Main Street | 4p-11p

TIME TO TOAST

Local Salute Carolinas Hospital System Honors Volunteers

Residential Pride of Darlington Award Mayor Gloria C. Hines presents the Residential Pride of Darlington Award on behalf of the City of Darlington Beautification Board on May 12, at the home of Gwen Simon on South Dargan Street.

OTIS Elevator Makes Top 100 Employers List Otis Elevator is listed in America’s top 100 employers list. Otis is the world’s leading manufacturer and maintainer of people-moving products, including elevators, escalators and moving walkways. Otis has its manufacturing operations here in Florence, SC., and is a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide.

CHS Pharmacist Receives Recognition from the SC College of Pharmacy Carolinas Hospital System is pleased to announce that Erin Brewer, PharmD was selected as the Low Country Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE) Hospital Preceptor of the Year and the Low Country Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) Hospital Preceptor of the Year by the South Carolina College of Pharmacy (SCCP). This is the first time in the program’s history that a SCCP preceptor has received both the IPPE and APPE awards in the same year. SCCP students nominate preceptors for the Preceptor of the Year awards, annually. Criteria addressed in the award nominations include being a role model practitioner; being an effective, organized, and enthusiastic teacher; and, possessing strong leadership skills. Experiential education accounts for almost a third of the Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum. Preceptors like Dr. Brewer are vital to ensuring quality experiential training and the future success of student pharmacists trained at Carolinas Hospital System. “We are proud of Dr. Brewer’s dedication to her profession and Carolinas Hospital System which shows through her outstanding commitment to her colleagues and student pharmacists. We congratulate her on these honorable recognitions,” said Gary Malaer, Chief Executive Officer for Carolinas Hospital System.

Grace Davis and James Davis

Carolinas Hospital System recently hosted its annual Volunteer Awards Luncheon at the Floyd Conference Center. The event was in recognition of National Volunteer Week and celebrated the numerous contributions made by volunteers at the hospital.

In 2016, the volunteers donated 7,500 hours of service and nine volunteers donated over 300 hours during the year. Dan Allen, Lou Dixon, Bonnie Schenkl, Carol Turner, Ron Cann, Dee Dixon, Andy McCloy, Irene Brown and Pinkney Speights were each honored for donating more than 300 hours. Volunteers dedicated their time to many projects such as greeting and escorting patients and visitors, assisting with discharges, serving as resources at information desks, assisting staff with clerical duties, volunteering at the Senior Life Expo and much more. This year’s recipients of the Service Excellence Award were Geraldine Waters and Jim McCormick. The award is presented to a volunteer who consistently demonstrates a passion of volunteering with a positive and compassionate manner. The Service Excellence and Most Hours of Service Award was presented to Pinkney Speights. The Volunteer of the Year Awards were presented to Grace Davis and James Davis. The Volunteer of the Year Award is presented to a volunteer who demonstrates extraordinary efforts in his/her performance, attitude and commitment to the mission of Carolinas Hospital System.

Four from FMU Nursing Recognized as ‘Palmetto Gold’ Two faculty members and two students from Francis Marion University’s Department of Nursing were recognized at the 17th annual Palmetto Gold Gala for Nursing, held last month at the Columbia Metropolitan Center in Columbia. Dr. Tracy George and Dr. Deborah Hopla were recognized as part of the 2017 class of Palmetto Gold, meaning they’ve been selected by their peers as being one of the top 100 nurses in the state. In addition, Jessica Elliott of Nichols, an undergraduate nursing student at FMU; and Katelyn Poston of Johnsonville, a graduate in the university’s Master’s level Nurse Educator program, received Palmetto Gold scholarships. Poston was the only graduate student in the state of SC to receive this honor. The Palmetto Gold Awards are presented by the South Carolina Nurses Association and the S.C. Nurses Foundation.

In the Spotlight Carolinas Hospital System Recognizes Outstanding Nurses/Support Staff In honor of the national celebration of Nurses Week, Carolinas Hospital System held a ceremony Thursday, May 11, to highlight the many contributions and achievements of our nursing staff. The 2017 Nurse of the Year Award was presented to James Rand, RN. He has a reputation for being one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate nurses. Weekly, James is recognized by patients and their family members. Physicians, peers, and students respect him and describe him as resourceful, professional, and ethical. He models the positive behaviors that we all know as the Carolinas Difference. Another outstanding and devoted nurse, Robin Carroll, RN, was presented The Patient Choice Award. Robin’s dedication to providing outstanding care exceeds not only our expectations, but those of our patients.

Jesms Rand, RN

Carolinas Hospital System and Nursing Services presented the following additional awards and recognitions during the ceremony: Elijah Owens, MD – Physician Friend of Nursing; Shawn Polk, Clinical Informaticist Coordinator – Nursing Leadership Champion; Betty Dotson, Secretary, Emergency Department – Nursing Support Champion; Morgan Collins, Falinda Delly, Crystal Fulgencio, Loren Graham, Brandy Hayes, Bianca Lopez-Obregon, Kayla Miner, Lesleigh Norris, Amanda Rhodus, Nisheeka Simmons, Kelly Thomson, Terri Tomberlin - Rising Stars The Dr. Frank B. Lee, Sr. Outstanding Nursing Unit Award was given to the Operating Room. This year’s recipient was recognized for their contributions to improving patient safety and quality of care for the patients we serve.

Florence Civic Center Announces New Corporate Sales Manager Brian Davison former Box Office Manager at the SMG-Managed Florence Civic Center, has recently been promoted to Corporate Sales Manager. Brian led sales development for two semi-pro sports tenants at the venue prior to taking his leadership role with the SMG-Florence Box Office. Brian’s current role will better utilize his 10+ years of experience and skills to provide improved services for existing facility sponsors and uncover new corporate business development, premium sales, and sponsorship opportunities.

Robin Caroll, RN

FMU Alums Deliver Short Film with Great Purpose On Tuesday, May 30, Glass – a short film created by Francis Marion University 2017 alums Christian Brunetti and Christina Xan premiered at the FMU Performing Arts Center’s Black Box Theatre at 7 p.m. The origin of the film goes back to February, when Xan took pen to paper and began writing a stage play as part of a class project. The brutally honest script for the stage play Glass dealt with domestic violence and its repercussions. Xan’s work drew rave reviews from her peers, especially Brunetti, who had seen his mother go through an abusive relationship. Sensing the chance to use some of his own personal experiences, Brunetti reached out to Xan with the idea of adapting the play into a short film. Just a few weeks later, shooting was underway. With the help of students and faculty at Francis Marion, the two were able to make their film on a shoestring budget and in a very short period of time. Now, the two have graduated, Glass is now set to premiere and the big screen can’t contain the pair’s excitement.

FDTC Hosts Caterpillar Conference The Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology (SiMT) hosted Caterpillar Inc.’s ThinkBIG Global Conference on Tuesday, May 23. Caterpillar Inc. ThinkBIG representatives from nine countries and 12 states met at the SiMT for the conference that only occurs every two years. This year’s conference marked the first time that FDTC has served as the event’s host. The Caterpillar Dealer Academy has been operating at FDTC for 17 years, and it has placed many graduates in the workforce.

Xan, the architect of the stage version of Glass, says the premiere of the film is both humbling and empowering. “My goal as a writer is to peel back the cover on something people try to ignore and be as brutally honest about it as possible,” Xan says. “I don’t think it’s a feeling quite possible to describe to watch people work so hard on something you created… I was watching my characters come to life in front of me. I’ll never forget that.” The film takes on a difficult topic but looks to promote solutions, as all proceeds from ticket sales will go to the CARE House of the Pee Dee. The CARE House of the Pee Dee is a Florence-based organization that provides services and support to victims of child abuse and trauma.

LOCAL ADVENTURES

Bigger and Better than Ever, Covering 11 SC Counties story by Kimberly Brauss The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour – the largest farm and art tour in the United States – will be held every weekend in June, and the Pee Dee will be featured the first weekend of the tour. The free, self-guided tour of designated farms features artisans and farmers markets. The June 3-4 weekend includes participation from Chesterfield, Darlington, Florence, and Horry counties. “We are proud of how this tour has continued to grow,” Ben Boyles, Clemson Extension Agribusiness Agent and Tour Administrator, said. “One of the goals of this tour has been to give people a better knowledge of what is produced in their own backyard. This event puts food and product with a face.” In Florence County, visitors will have the opportunity to see where food comes from, watch artists in action and purchase their works, and learn more about rural life. What’s more, there’s no admission fee. Participating farms in Florence County include Pee Dee State Farmers Market, City Center Farmers Market, Green Acres Country Market, and The Columns. Artisans will be at each location selling their wares. Tour times are every weekend from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, unless specified, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The tour began in York County in 2012 and has grown each year. This year Florence and Newberry counties joined the tour, making it the largest it has seen since the inception. Boyles said growth of and interest in the Ag + Art Tour has been phenomenal.

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“With the addition of two new counties this year, visitors will have the opportunity to visit over 80 agricultural sites and interact with more than 130 artisans,” Boyles said. There is no cost to attend, and visitors can start and stop their tour at any location they choose. In addition to the tour, Boyles said some counties will host kickoff events to introduce the featured farm sites and artisans to their communities. Kickoff events include a range of activities, such as farm-to-table dinners, barbecue and blues events, and special activities at local farmers markets. More information about events and the tour can be found online at agandarttour.com.

Save the date AG + ART TOUR COUNTIES June 3-4: Chesterfield, Darlington, Florence, Horry June 10-11: Chester, York June 17-18: Kershaw, Lancaster June 24-25: Fairfield, Newberry, Union

FREE ADMISSION Saturdays 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sundays 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

LOCAL ADVENTURES Photography by Heather Byrd

Making a Big Splash in a Small Town story by Kimberly Brauss Located in Byerly Park Recreation Complex in Hartsville, Piratesville Splash Pad is a hit for families and children of all ages. Opened in 2013, the 5,100-square-foot piratethemed splash pad is among the largest splash pads in the Southeast. It has a multi-functional play area that features water slides, jets, cannons, dumping buckets, fountains, and geysers. Complete with concession stand and picnic area, the splash pad is a joy for all to beat South Carolina’s summer heat and humidity. “It’s a great asset to the community because, from a parks and recreation standpoint, it’s an additional recreational opportunity for the residents of Hartsville and surrounding areas. It brings a lot of youth together and is a chance for families to do things together, as well,” said Director of Parks & Recreation Craig Goodman. “It brings people to Byerly Park and may expose them to other recreational opportunities they may not have known existed. The same goes for people who are from

other cities and surrounding areas. People may come to Hartsville just to visit Piratesville, and they may learn that Hartsville has things to offer that may have been unknown to them and there is the economic impact factored in as well.” The park offers shaded areas for parents to lounge while children enjoy the water features under the watchful eyes of Piratesville staff members. On average families spend at least three hours enjoying all the Splash Pad amenities. Daily tickets are $4 for a child and $2 for an adult. Season passes are available and can be purchased at Coach T.B. Thomas Sports Center: $30 for child and $15 for adults for city residents, and $40 for child and $20 adult for non-Hartsville residents. Family season passes are also available. Rentals for private parties, which include use of the picnic shelter and Splash Pad supervisor, are available as well. Those rates start at $100 for an hour for city residents.

Splash Pad Summer Schedule Open Daily through August 20 Tues-Sat 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Sunday 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.. Open Labor Day Post Season Dates and Times are Posted on the Website Piratesville Splash Pad is located at 1109 14th St. in Hartsville. For more information, call 843-339-2878, email piratesville@hartsvillesc.gov, or visit www.piratesvillesplashpad.com.

VIP Magazine | June 2017

LOCAL ADVENTURES

Summer In The Park

Lynches River County Park story by Sam Harrelson Along the bank of Lynches River sits Lynches River County Park, a park thousands of years in the making. The park features gorgeous, towering cypress trees, swamplands, and even sand hills. During the day, park goers can choose from a wide variety of activities to take part in. If paddling is your forte, you can paddle down quiet, scenic Lynches River in a canoe or kayak of your own, or one of the park’s rentals. For those who prefer to stay out of the water, the Riverwalk allows visitors to stroll alongside the river while listening to the sound of flowing water, birds singing, and squirrels rustling the leaves all while keeping your feet dry. For visitors who are up for more of a challenge, hiking is available on one of the park’s four trails. Choose from beautiful trails that range from .6 miles to 2.3 miles. Once visitors have worked up a sweat hiking, the Splash Pad is available to cool down. There’s no better way to spend a hot summer’s day. But on a not-so-hot day, visitors can also enjoy the Archery Range. Here, advanced archers have the opportunity to shoot targets at distances of up to 50 yards. This summer, Lynches River County Park will be offering various camps and activities. “Dig It!” will give camp goers the opportunity to grab their shovels and try their hand at gardening. Campers will be educated on different types of soil, how composting works, different plants, and more. At the end of camp, kids will be able to bring home a plant of their own for their yards. “Art In The Park” will focus on a combination of art and nature. Campers will be creating fun, stimulating, hands on art that is sure to create a love for the natural art that nature can offer. “From painting with leaves, to creating your own colors from nature, campers will be inspired by the world around them.” 52

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Lastly, “Animal Caretakers” will teach campers all about what it really takes to care for animals. Animal lovers won’t want to miss out on this one. With hands-on practice, kids will learn how to handle, feed, and care for various types of animals ranging from turtles, to snakes, to alligators, and more. Field trips will provide campers with a more up-close look at these animals in their natural habitats. Not only will campers be learning about animal care, but also how wildlife may sometimes conflict with humans, change in environments, and why animals may need human help for a second chance. “First Saturday” programs are also being offered. These are free and family friendly. Each first Saturday of the month, guests are invited to come and participate in nature inspired activities. Also, each weekend the park hosts Wild Weekends. These are animal presentations and are free to the public. Wild Weekends allow visitors to learn about the park’s animals and will be provided with the opportunity to touch as well. There’s never a dull moment at Lynches River County Park.

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

FLORENCE COMMUNITY

Chambers of Commerce Empower Businesses and Communities story by Les Echols, Director of Community and Minority Enterprise of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce Some people may have lost sight of what Chambers of Commerce do in their community. Chambers of commerce originated in France in 1599, with the first English-speaking chamber of commerce organized in New Jersey in 1759. Throughout the years, chambers of commerce have been heralded as champions for business and industry. But, practical ROI of chambers became so misunderstood that many people only looked forward to the next event as opposed to taking full advantage of ongoing programs that deliver long-term value to business and the community they serve. As we move into the technologically driven era, chambers, like the Greater Florence Chamber, have become ways to build relationships and rapports amongst businesses, and among community leaders, and our state and local representatives. We help drive improvements in education, infrastructure and of course, local commerce. No matter how big or small, chambers of commerce create network channels for members, while 54

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also creating community buy-in with practical business programs and community events. Joining chambers of commerce will always increase visibility and exposure for a business, which is a great value for small to medium sized businesses.Â A recent study shows that consumers are 40% more likely to eat at a restaurant that is a chamber of commerce member and 63% more likely to purchase goods and services from a chamber member. Although it would seem exposure is an intangible benefit, the odds of someone patronizing a business is significantly raised if they are a chamber member. Facilitating networking opportunities and supporting local commerce are basic tasks in the chamber of commerce circles. Most chambers have been the direct line to area newcomers and

area business relocation efforts. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve become a strong voice for the business community, a tie that binds everyone from entrepreneurs and small business owners to major manufacturing and big box retailers. The goal is simply to encourage the growth of the local business community and the regional economy. Chambers of commerce in the Pee Dee have remained active in their respective markets, working as a unified voice of the business community. We certainly hope you continue to support your local and regional chambers, as they work hard trying to keep our commerce and professional environment vibrate, while at the same time working to support and grow the next wave of buying public. BECOME A MEMBER

Contact Les Echols:

Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce 100 W Evans St, Florence | 843.665.0515 email: lechols@flochamer.com web: flochamber.com

Membership levels for every business, at every stage of development. Make the one networking decision that could greatly impact your connections in the community- join the Chamber today!

May 2017 | VIP Magazine

ALL ACCESS

Stokes Regional Eye Centers Designed for Our Patients story by Sam Harrelson The Pee Dee has trusted Stokes Regional Eye Centers for nearly 80 years to keep their vision crystal clear. The practice was founded in 1938 by Dr. Julius “Howard” Stokes, Sr., MD. Over the years, business has expanded in both technology and patient attendance. In January of 2016 construction began to build a new 4.5 million dollar, 20,000 square foot ophthalmology center. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held in April where about 50 people attended including city officials, physicians, and employees. Fast forward to March of 2017 and the center is up and running. Patients can now receive a variety of services including Lasik, cosmetic, and cataract operations. Now located at 367 W. Evans Street, the rich red brick building sits directly across from City Center in downtown Florence. Dr. Mark Stokes said that his grandfather, “would be so excited to be back downtown and to see how the college and the downtown area has developed over the years.” As patients arrive and walk through the glass front doors, the first thing they will notice is the sleek, modern front desk large enough to cater to multiple patients at once as they check in. The tall, open windows in the lobby allow for adequate sunlight to flood in to brighten the room. Right in the center of the building sits Pee Dee Optical. Here,

patients have access to a wide selection of prescription glasses, contact lenses, sunglasses, safety glasses, and accessories. Once a patient is checked in, they are directed to their designated waiting room. To aid in making patients as comfortable as possible while they wait, the walls are painted calming colors. Colors such as light blue and seafoam green make waiting stress free. Even children have a designated waiting area where they can read, color, or watch television while they wait to see their physician. When patients are called back to see one of the practice’s seven physicians, they enter into a long hallway, full of different colored exam rooms. Next to the exam rooms, patients can easily take care of any insurance work needed in the facility’s designated insurance offices. Easy access and centralization is a very important part of the new facility. Everything was designed to ease patient flow. Although keeping the clinic’s patients satisfied was at the forefront of designing the new building, employees have also been given great work spaces and excellent amenities. Employees have access to a large indoor breakroom, an outdoor patio area with multiple shaded patio tables, a large conference room, and spacious, colorful offices. To say the least, this new facility has it all.

Sources: www.scnow.com/news/business/local/article_cfdd8204-1c9e-11e7-a441-2b582c1f218c.html, www.scnow.com/news/business/article_3aeb0b84-26fe-11e7-bd96-2fcafc736171.html

Mark Stokes, MD

Isam J. Zakhour, MD

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Mark Ross, MD

Hunter Stokes Jr, MD

Deanna Lyttle, MD

James Goodson, MD

Gregory King, MD

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Photography by Michelle Springs, Butterbean Photography

WHERE SERVICE IS ALWAYS IN SEASON

A Business Built By Accident story by Heather Page

It takes boundless imagination to create a space that fits the requirements of a home or business owner. It also requires logic, knowing if the customers demands are practical to the surrounding elements while maintaining a visually charming esthetic. Years of experience, a lot of practice, and willingness for continued growth is what got Mike Steger, owner of Steger’s Lawn Service, creating fine outdoor spaces for clients. Twenty years of practice has taught Steger how to keep clients happy while keeping properties in tiptop condition. Steger began his career with a Winn-Dixie grocery store at the age of 17. After several years, multiple management positions, and transfers to both Bilo and Food Lion, he took a position with Kellogg as a territory manager in 1999. By 2002, Steger’s was well into his career but wanted to pick up extra money to pay for his hunting hobby. After finishing a shift with Kellogg’s, he’d jump on his riding lawnmower to cut grass around his neighborhood. One yard grew into two, two grew into ten, and Steger was eventually forced into upgrading to a zero turn mower and getting some outside assistance. “Randy Segers helped me tremendously back in the day,” Steger commented. “During those early years, as soon as we

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finished our primary jobs, we hit the streets cutting grass!” For several years Steger committed to his full-time job with Kellogg’s while growing his lawn care business into a full-time, year round company. In January of 2017, Steger left his career with Kellogg to join his crew full-time, beautifying our community. Steger is grateful for his staff, “If it wasn’t for my employees, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” Because he’s always been blessed with a crew that has a fantastic work ethic, Steger has made it his priority to see that they benefit from their hard work. “ I enjoy taking care of my guys; they work hard for me so I intend to let them reap the rewards.” With two full time crews, one for maintenance (Will Cain, and Wes Lewis), and one for landscape projects (Bill Llewellyn, Phillip Williamson, and Scottie Haselden) Steger’s Lawn Service stays busy creating outside scapes for homes and businesses in Florence, Darlington, and Pamplico with plenty of room to continue growing his business into other communities around the Pee Dee. With the help and irrigation knowledge of Jody Llewellyn, Steger’s was offered an opportunity to design the space around the Tidal Wave Auto Spa on Irby Street in Florence. The project was a

success, and has led to other Tidal Wave projects in South Carolina, Georgia, and North Carolina. In addition to his employees, Steger is thankful for the relationships he has built with other like-minded businesses in the community. Benji Walsh with Walsh Ground Works encouraged Steger in the beginning, giving guidance when obstacles were faced; Tony Melton with Clemson Extension helped educate Steger on horticulture. “Jonathan Lamb with Lamb’s Plants and Produce has also been a huge help over the years,” says Steger. “If I ask a question, he is ready to give me advice and he bends over backwards to help supply me with products needed for landscaping jobs.” Amerson’s Nursery has been a significant help to Steger, as well as many other local businesses.

“I have great respect for the small businesses of Florence, and would also like to give a special thanks to all who have helped me to continue my success.” Steger’s family has also played a significant role in the growth of the business. His wife, Donna, has always been an encouragement while also maintaining the books and being the backbone of the company. His children have offered hands-on work as they have helped him lay sod and cut grass, but they also help with the creatives. As the owner of Butterbean Photography, Steger’s daughter Michelle Springs photographs landscapes upgraded by his business. His son, Chris, created his logo and maintains his social media accounts. What started as a “business by accident” has grown into a complete landscaping company servicing over 100 homes and business. They offer a variety of services including year round maintenance, landscape and lightning design, sod, mulch, straw, irrigation installation and repair, shrubbery trimming and bush hogging to name a few. Working as a manager for so many years groomed Steger into a savvy business man, but loyal employees and a welcoming business community helped to grow his business where it is today; for that, he is forever grateful!

For more info on Steger’s Complete Landscaping, contact Mike Steger at 843-687-0453 and view his ratings on Angie’s List®.

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

PAYING IT FORWARD

Amy Pennington & Jessica Brown Form First Autism Resource Center for the Pee Dee Area story by Sandra Boyington In 2005, two Florence moms of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) began discussing the need to create a group for parents to learn and share more about the disorder they knew so little of. The rate of children being diagnosed was growing rapidly, but there was still a lack of support or resources in the community; this led the moms to begin transforming an idea into a reality. They started by evaluating their purpose, adjusting their mission, setting higher goals, and looking to the future. Years later All 4 Autism was formed, an organization built to increase awareness, resources, and support for those of all ages with ASD throughout the Pee Dee Region. As support began to grow and resources were established, the organizations Board of Directors named mom’s Jessica Brown and Amy Pennington as the Executive Director and Outreach Coordinator. Both Brown and Pennington are parents of children with autism and could relate to other parents that were faced with the lack of support and resources our community offered. They pledged to do something that would help other ASD families be educated through their journey with autism. They got to work spreading the word about the organization and its dreams of one day opening a resource center. They wanted to create a space where individuals and families could go to learn more about the disorder and to share their joys and challenges with a relatable group. 60

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On June 12, Brown and Pennington will open the doors to the first Autism Resource Center for the Pee Dee area. Located at 183 South Coit Street, the center provides a physical location where the ASD community can receive support, information, and referrals. “Our staff, volunteers, and board of directors work in collaboration with other agencies and organizations to provide information, resources, and training on a variety of topics, strategies, and methods to improve the quality of life of ASD individuals and their families,” says Brown. The center will offer PACT (Parents Advocating and Connecting Together) and Siblings Unite Programs, as well as Camp Saint John Summer Camp for ages 4 to 18. In addition, All 4 Autism has partnered with the Florence Breakfast Rotary Club to launch an ASD tutor lab for middle and high school students. Adult workshops include: Medicaid/TEFRA 101, IEP Planning, Executive Functioning, and Inclusion Training. “Most of all, we want to be the center of our ASD community and provide a place where our families feel accepted and know we will be with them on their journey,” says Brown. With so many services to offer, the resource center will surely be an asset to our community. For a description and registration for workshops, visit www.all4autism.org.