July 2017 by VIP Magazine

ISSUE 20

JULY CONTENTS 10 Under The Dome Wilcox, Buyck, & Williams, P.A.

12 Shop Local Supporting Your Community

14 Minorities in Business Soulé Cafe

16 Advocating Healthcare Diabetes & Nutrition Center | HopeHealth

18 Developing Downtown Lake City Downtown Merchants Association

20 Tech Savvy

24 Positive Pursuit

Circle Park | Gavin Criser

26 Experience Hartsville

50 Florence Community

Online Master’s Degree | Coker College

29 Cover Story Trent Hill Center | Hartsville

34 Professional At Play Travis Graves | Florence RedWolves

36 Agribusiness G Squared Urban Farms

38-42 Around Town

JUGLR App

22 Business Spotlight Straw Hat Distillery

48 All Access

Mighty Men | Brad Lewis

Leadership Florence

52 In The Head Of James Aikens | Rita’s of Florence

54 All Access Dillon Historic School Foundation

56 Health And Wellness Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center

58 Tax Prep Send Me In Coach | Elizabeth Campbell

44 Happenings 46 Time to Toast

60 Employee Spotlight Lt. Tenyonde Richardson

July 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 Advertising Executive Jordan Pupa jordan@vipmagsc.com Creative Design Tuesday Taylor

Contributing Photographers Heather Byrd Tindall Hutchinson Bradley Lail Fred Salley Jeff Smith Contributing Writers Lorene Bridgers Arnette Kim Brauss Elizabeth Campbell, EA Ashley Elvington Brad Lewis Rion McAllister Mike Miller Jack Muench Edward Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dell Jordan Pupa Donna Tracy Audie Wise

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

There is one thing for sure, we at VIP adore business professionals that have set their sites on helping others by starting a non-profit. We are thrilled to share the cover with the Trent Hill Center who has plans to open in September to help underprivelaged boys and girls in our community. As always, Heather Byrd with Infinity Images captured this beautiful family perfectly.

VIP Magazine | July 2017

June 2017 | VIP Magazine

UNDER THE DOME

HIGHER EDUCATION in South Carolina story by

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

South Carolina is blessed with a thriving system of higher education. There are 79 institutions of higher learning which includes 33 public schools, 24 private schools and 22 for-profit schools. There are approximately 175,000 full-time students enrolled in higher ed. Enrollment demographics for higher ed students virtually mirrors the demographics of the state as a whole for race and ethnicity. There are 12 public 4 year institutions in the state including a military school, the Citadel, an historically black college, South Carolina State, and of course, Francis Marion University. The oldest institution is the College of Charleston, which was founded in 1770. 15 of the schools comprise the South Carolina Technical Education system, perhaps the most successful technical education system in the country. There are 6 four-year and 2 two-year historically black colleges and universities. 20 of the schools are affiliated with religious institutions including Wofford (Methodist), Presbyterian College, and Anderson University (Baptist). The state’s flagship school is the University of South Carolina. USC is the largest school in the state. As

of 2015 there were 33,575 students enrolled at the Columbia campus. The University also operates satellite schools in Beaufort, Aiken, Allendale, Spartanburg, Sumter, Lancaster and Union. Francis Marion University and Coastal Carolina were originally USC satellite schools. System-wide enrollment at USC is nearly 50,000 students. Professional schools on the Columbia campus include the Darla Moore School of Business, engineering, law, medicine, pharmacy, and social work. The University was founded in 1801 as South Carolina College. The General Assembly envisioned the College as a bridge between the Upstate and the Low Country and located it centrally in Columbia. The heart of the campus is the historic Horseshoe. This U-shaped collection of buildings dates to the University’s founding and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds of the Horseshoe have hosted speeches from luminaries such as Senator John F. Kennedy as well as a visit from Pope John Paul II. The Horseshoe hosts various graduate school graduations as well as campus events. The Horseshoe has also witnessed much of the state’s history.

In 1862, the College closed and several of its buildings were utilized as hospitals during the Civil War. The University was also a pressing political issue during Reconstruction and subsequent years. The School reopened as the University of South Carolina in 1866 and admitted the first African-American students in 1873. The University was the only public state institution in the South to admit and grant degrees to black students during Reconstruction. The University closed again in 1877 amid the political controversy associated with black students and a general lack of support from upstate lawmakers. The school reopened in 1880 and by 1894 admitted its first women. It was the first coeducational College in the state. Enrollment at the University surged to 5,000 students as veterans returned from World War II. The 10 years from 1965 to 1975 saw enrollment increase from approximately 7,000 students to nearly 25,000. Its current student body is nearly twice the size of Clemson University. The University has over 100,000 alumni throughout the world. It has educated generations of South Carolinians, and has a storied and rich history.

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 | July 2017

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

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

SHOP LOCAL

Supporting Your

Community

It’s the age old question – Why shop local? One of the greatest battles of our time, that ends all too often in heartache, is between small town businesses and corporate chain stores. Many mom and pop shops have come and gone over time, often losing the battle to places such as Target, Walmart, Best Buy, etc. Why has this become a trend? I’ve often asked myself this question, as many of my fellow peers look quite miserable trying to navigate through the hustle and bustle of larger stores. In the search for answers, I asked a few of my fellow friends here in Florence who make a living from owning and operating their own stores…a living that provides a means for several who have their own families.

story by Ashley Elvington

Courtney Baxley is a working mom and owner of Flirt Boutique on Rainbow Drive in Florence. I met Courtney a few years ago and instantly fell in love with both her unique, welcoming personality and her store. Not only does she offer eclectic clothing pieces, but she also sells jewelry crafted by local artisans. Whether it’s Courtney or a member of her staff, you are always greeted with a warm smile and hello, and she and her team are eager to help with anything needed. Having come from a small town herself, owning a clothing boutique has been a childhood dream come true for Courtney. “I have always wanted to own a business, and I would have never been able to purchase this business without the help of my local bank, who had faith that I could make this work. It has not been easy, to say the least, but very rewarding. I have learned so much about economics that no college course could have taught me! There is no ‘training’ offered as a small business owner, you just have to get out there, figure it out, and make mistakes to learn from. I think that is one of the most rewarding things - teaching myself the concepts of owning a business and learning the importance of the economy. I am passionate about supporting local businesses because I know the positive effects it will have on the economy.” Tiffany Thomas is the extremely talented owner of TThomas Arts, a ceramic and painting studio in Downtown Florence. This studio also houses The Artisan Shop, which features locally made art and goods from those in the Pee Dee Region. Tiffany always makes you feel welcome, and I love searching for a special something that I know has been made by a local artist. She shares, “I truly believe that locally made products are how we can help a community stay vibrant. Chain stores usually manufacture products overseas to keep costs low. When you buy handmade, you’re supporting the mother who is trying to create extra income to send her child to camp, or the father who is supporting his family.”

VIP Magazine | July 2017

August Langley is not only the successful owner of Smart Phone Repair in Downtown Florence, but he is also a brand new father. He started Smart Phone Repair solely by himself in March 2012. Smart Phone Repair repairs, buys, and sells smart phones and tablets, as well as provides accessories to enhance and protect mobile devices. This business has been great in the community, as the option for great quality phone repair is very little in the Pee Dee Region. “Being a service industry, as well as a retail establishment, we take pride in being able to offer quick and affordable services. Having the trust of our local community is so important because so much of our business comes from people having great experiences and telling their friends. I grew up in Florence and am proud to have a business that is a part of the local economy and meets the needs of the community. My focus is on how I can continue to help those locally and make a positive impact.” It’s also been a blessing to witness the growth of Downtown Florence and the arrival of even more local businesses. “Being downtown for over five years now has been an exciting journey and I am glad I took a chance when there wasn’t much happening.” Like Courtney, August has also learned the aspects of business -Courtney by trial and error. “When I started my business, there was not a model of success that I could copy, so most of the learning experience happened along the way and from piecing together bits of advice from different industries and individuals. I think cash flow is always the biggest struggle a small business is going to face when you look at employees, inventory, and staying on top of all of the issues that come up on a daily basis. Despite all of the struggles, I love the satisfaction of knowing I am able to help others and provide an income for my family and my employees.”

‘incentives’ from vendors are offered. Buying in bulk ultimately lowers the buyer’s cost tremendously. With boutiques, you are ordering a select number to keep the shopping experience exclusive. Personally, I would rather have a one-onone experience while shopping. Though the cost varies, the quality of the services you receive is much greater.” I agree with her to the fullest extent from a customer’s point of view. Also, working in a small business myself, I know all too well and appreciate the value of establishing the relationship between business and customer. As humans, though we all differ from one another, we can all agree that we want to be respected, appreciated, and heard. Ultimately, we want trust and care from those we do business with on a daily basis. This is achieved successfully through small businesses, as forming bonds with customers lies at the center core of each business’s mission statement. While these bonds keep customers returning, it’s more meaningful to these owners than just making another sell. Tiffany elaborates, “I sell my ceramics online and ship all over the world, but I have to say, I thoroughly enjoy meeting one-on-one with customers.” If you do happen to visit a local business, August encourages you Baxley to share your experience in a review on social media, Google, Yelp, etc. “It is such an encouragement to see when people have positive feedback, but it is also a valuable tool to keep improving when issues do happen.” And improve they will, as small businesses know they wouldn’t be where they are today without the support of their community.

“I am passionate about supporting local businesses because I know the positive effects it will have on the economy.”

Courtney shares, “When you purchase from a small business, you are giving the opportunity of success to a person who has worked countless hours to provide a service to the community and to support their families. Unlike chain stores, the financial assistance is not available. When working on a smaller scale, the costs involved are much different than that of a large chain store where

Instead of dreading that trip to the large retailer, take the one-of-a-kind special journey to a local business in your community. After all, they are the heart of small towns. Tiffany concludes, “There are wonderful people in our town who use their business to serve others. They fell in love with cooking or washing cars, or building buildings or making art! These local people should be used for their services; not outsourcing a company in another state just because they’re ‘known.’ Use someone local instead! Have pride for your town and local community!”

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

MINORITIES IN BUSINESS

Soule’ Cafe

It’s a Soule Thing

“Soulé is my contribution to Florence.” - Ezra Brown When owner Ezra Brown opened the doors to Soulé Café this spring in downtown Florence, the Florence native said he was adding his support to the amazing downtown business family he immersed himself when he returned to Florence. The touring saxophonist and saxophone designer’s love of coffee shops naturally made him think of starting his own. And it’s one he said he wanted not only as a meeting space, but one that celebrates diversity. And celebrate, he does. The cafe is home to children’s story time with book readings by local artist/business owner Tiffany Thomas of TthomasArts as well as album releases, concerts, open mic sessions, dance classes to name just a few events. Soulé welcomes all facets of people: “We want all ethnicities, cultures, and ages to feel comfortable at Soulé.” “We are here to help build — our artist community, music community…We want people to realize you can get everything you want right here in Florence.” Brown said he doesn’t see his cafe as a competitor. “As a space, we don’t want to just sell coffee, we want to build relationships. Build other entrepreneurs and build Florence,” he said. And Brown builds his connection not only during his daily interaction with customers, but also working with other local businesses, fortifying relationships. The cafe also features artwork created by Florence natives and furniture crafted by Florentines. 14

VIP Magazine | July 2017

“The one thing I can say about Florence,” Brown said, “to be the size, we don’t have a lot of coffee shops. But we are an amazing family.” So much so, Soulé brews beans from local roaster Batch Nine Coffee Co., which is affiliated with Lula’s Coffee Co. on Pamplico Highway. He also considers Soulé the drinking well or meeting ground for everything in the city. Another feature of the cafe is a meeting space in the back fit for a dozen people with a Chrome-ready television, where anyone at any time can hold a meeting with access to the TV for demonstrations. And for those foreign to the caffeinated world, Brown and his staff educate and make comfortable those wanting to learn more about it all.

“We are really trying to educate people on the origin of tea,” Brown said. “We are creating authentic teas for themed nights like Bollywood — Authentic Chai. We aren’t just drinking the tea but creating an atmosphere of authenticity.” Soulé’s top-seller is Matcha, a green tea, that’s a finely ground powder made from the leaves and consumed whole, not just as a brew. Studies show green tea contains the highest concentration of antioxidants, which helps treat many health conditions, including lowering cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and reducing inflammation. “The powder form is much more health and potent. It’s a great alternative to coffee because it gives you an even energy instead of a spiked energy.” Along with the health push, Brown’s also featuring pastry chef Thomasena Thomas’ vegan cupcakes. And fairly soon, they’ll be making a non-dairy whipped cream. It’s “another reason we have all the toppings; I don’t drink dairy. We are studying what works best now.” While Brown’s lived in Singapore, New York, Mississippi, Malaysia, and Japan, his return to Florence is a grounded one. Brown also has another Florencebased company designing saxophones, EBX Java Saxophone. They can be seen played by saxophonists in such bands as Bruno Mars and Jill Scott’s. “This is the first horn made for Southerners.” Brown said he reconfigured some parts of the instrument, putting a larger bowl on the bottom to make a bigger sound. “It’s an international company, right here in Florence.” And for Brown, what’s important is giving back. “I want to be sure that kids growing up around here realize that really talented people come from this town. So I was thinking: What if I never left? What if no one had ever inspired me; how would I have ended up? The purpose of this is to give young and old kids an outlet to be different and not be outcasted because you are different.”

Soulé Cafe is located at 130 S. Irby St. in Florence. It also can be found on Instagram as soule_cafe and Facebook at facebook.com/soule.cafe/.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

ADVOCATING HEALTHCARE

photos by Bradley Lail

Anita Longan, MS, RDN/LD, counsels a patient on

nutrition.

Christy Evans, ANP-C, counsels a patient on the importance of nutrition for managing diabetes.

Diabetes and Nutrition Center A focused approach to treating diabetes By Donna Tracy, Communication Coordinator, HopeHealth Most recognize the lyrics “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down,” but for more and more people, a spoonful of sugar is a contributing factor to their needing medicine in the first place. Our bodies convert consumed sugars, whether it’s a spoonful added to a morning cup of coffee, the goodies adorning a dessert table, or the hidden sweeteners in our most savory of dishes, into glucose. That glucose is then broken down by the hormone insulin to provide energy for our cells. However, not everyone is able to make insulin or use their insulin properly. When that happens, glucose levels in the bloodstream rise, and diabetes mellitus can develop. People whose bodies do not make insulin have type 1 diabetes and must learn to manage the disease by administering insulin based on their bodies’ needs. Those whose bodies do not use insulin effectively must also learn to manage the disease and often have to make significant lifestyle changes to prevent additional health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, dental disease, nerve damage, and lower-limb amputations. 16

VIP Magazine | July 2017

Managing diabetes can be a full-time job. From checking blood sugar levels and administering medicines, to learning how to carb-count, to keeping up with regular screenings and finding time for exercise, living with the disease can be overwhelming. While some people do well managing their diabetes with their regular primary care provider, others can struggle with the complexity of managing the disease and need extra care. Many programs are in place to help people and learn how to manage their diabetes and make the changes that can drastically impact the course of the disease. Centers such as the Diabetes and Nutrition Center at the HopeHealth Medical Plaza address the prevention, education, treatment, and management of the disease as a team. At the core of the HopeHealth Diabetes and Nutrition team are several individuals whose collaborative approach is just as sweet as “a spoonful of sugar,” and focuses on each patient’s specific needs for managing the disease. They are:

HopeHealth Diabetes and Nutrition Center Team • Christy Evans, credentials – A nurse practitioner focusing on diabetes management, Christy’s medical practice works solely with patients who have diabetes. This focus allows her to dedicate the entirety of a patient visits to detailed diabetes care such as examinations of the feet and medication adjustments.

• Anita Longan, credentials – Boardcertified in advanced diabetes management, Anita is a registered dietician nutritionist, certified diabetes educator, certified insulin pump trainer, and certified Diabetes Prevention Program health coach who meets with patients for one-on-one counselling and group education sessions.

• Kitty Finklea, credentials – Kitty is a registered dietician nutritionist, diabetes educator, and certified Diabetes Prevention Program health coach who provides counselling and group sessions at HopeHealth. She is also a fitness instructor.

• Sonda Jett-Clair, credentials – A retinal screening technician, certified Diabetes Prevention Program health coach, and certified Better Choices, Better Health Program health coach, Sonda teaches several classes to help HopeHealth patients manage lifestyle changes related to their diabetes diagnosis and provides the annual eyescreening test recommended for all patients with diabetes.

The team takes a holistic approach by looking at different factors that can influence the disease to provide the best overall care for diabetes management and works with their patients’ primary care provider to ensure all their health needs are being met. They look at factors such as medical history, keep diabetes screenings updated, and review nutrition, exercise, and stress management techniques. “We communicate and coordinate care for our patients together,” said Anita. “When any one of us sees a patient who needs a service that someone else on the team provides, we make sure that they get seen by them too.” While not every patient sees every member of the team, others need a combination of services that could include annual retinal scan screening, classes on diabetes prevention and self-management, or having their feet checked and medication reviewed by the diabetes nurse practitioner. “So many people struggle with diabetes and its complications. Our goal is to help people reduce their risks so they don’t develop those long-term complications,” said Kitty. “We really want to empower them to take care of themselves.”

HopeHealth employees from left to right: Adam Silverman – Director of Food Services, Christina Murphy, MA – Diabetes Medical Assistant, Anita Longan – Registered Dietitian, Sonda Jett-Clair – Retinal Technician and Diabetes Prevention Program Health Coach, Kitty Finklea – Registered Dietitian, and Christy Evans – Diabetes Management Nurse Practitioner

The HopeHealth team also incorporates other resources available for their patients by taking advantage of Tracks Café, which is also located inside the HopeHealth Medical Plaza. The café makes use of area programs such as the Pee Dee Food Hub a to help keep health on track with nutritious, affordable and tasty menu options. During closed hours, the Diabetes and Nutrition Center staff also coordinate with outside programs Café such as SNAP into Health, a Located inside HopeHealth South Carolina Department of 360 N Irby Street, Florence Health and Environmental Control 843.664.3636 | www tracks.cafe nutrition class, and Cooking Open M-F, 7a-3p Matters, a hands-on cooking class held in Tracks Café.

TR CKS

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

DEVELOPING DOWNTOWN

LAKE CITY

Downtown Merchants Association Bringing Business to Downtown Lake City story by Ashley Elvington What’s all the buzz about revitalization in Lake City? We took a little road trip down Highway 52 to spend some time with Greg Alexander, who serves as Downtown Business Liaison through the Greater Lake City Community Development Office (GLCCDO) to see and hear for ourselves. Partially as a result of the revitalization efforts led by the GLCCDO, which include facade renovations to improve the cosmetic appearance of downtown Lake City businesses while maintaining the architectural appeal of historic buildings, Greg was given the task of forming the Downtown Merchants Association so local businesses would have a forum to come together and move down a path of continuous improvement through sharing and implementing ideas to ensure continued success and future growth. As their Facebook page states, the Lake City Downtown Merchants Association (LCDMA) exists to assist downtown shops, eateries, and businesses with increasing their marketing reach. This is accomplished through cost-sharing programs and training that assists local businesses in producing promotional materials, marketing data, and effective advertising. The LCDMA also seeks ways to increase downtown visitor traffic through tourism. One successful way that the LCDMA has boosted business for participating merchants is through its monthly Sip ‘n’ Shop event. Shoppers are invited to stroll the beautifully landscaped downtown sidewalks and enjoy special sales and deals from local merchants, who also provide refreshments and treats, like finger foods, specialty cocktails and refreshing nonalcoholic beverages. Sip ‘n’ Shoppers are encouraged to visit all participating stores to be eligible for a grand prize drawing at the end of the event, which is traditionally a gift basket filled with items and goodies from participating merchants valued at $300. The LCDMA has enhanced the sense of community amongst participating merchants, the feeling that they 18

VIP Magazine | July 2017

are all in their mission for success together with each merchant extending a supportive, helping hand to other merchants when needed. DeAnna Hansen, owner of DeAnna’s Bath & Body, can attest to this camaraderie. She is currently relocating from a rented space on West Main Street to a brand new location on East Main, in a storefront that she recently purchased. While renovating her new retail space, DeAnna’s old location is closed. Luckily, Anna Burrows, owner of Seven Monogram Boutique, is stocking some of DeAnna’s most popular bath & body products for sale in her own shop to assist DeAnna in keeping her customers happy and to keep her income flowing as well. DeAnna, who also serves as Secretary of the LCDMA, is thrilled that her business has thrived to the point that she has been able to take the plunge from renting to owning her business space, and she enthusiastically states that she is “excited to be a part of the efforts to revitalize downtown Lake City.” While Main Street, bisected into East & West Main by railroad tracks that contribute to the local flavor of downtown Lake City with the sights & sounds of passing trains, is the epicenter of downtown revitalization, exciting plans are underway for the neighboring Sauls Street area as well. Sauls Street, which runs parallel to Main Street, will become a shared street with brick pavers spanning the space between buildings. With reduced travel speeds, pedestrians, cyclists and drivers can use the space safely and equally, with the opportunity to close the street to traffic to create an

“event plaza.” Karen Fowler, owner of The Elegant Bee, is one of the local merchants who is proud to call Sauls Street home to her business. Karen says, “I was initially attracted to Sauls Street when I had the opportunity to purchase a building owned by my grandfather, Luther Ward. Since my arrival in 2014, I have been warmly embraced by the Sauls Street community. I am excited about its enormous potential. Sauls Street has a unique charm, all its own.” The CDO’s Greg Alexander echoes Karen’s enthusiasm, stating that the plans to give Sauls Street a “European market square feel” will make for a more enjoyable experience for local residents and visitors when they come downtown to shop and dine out. The temptation to linger downtown with neighbors and visitors to Lake City will be greatly enhanced.” With Ward’s Fish Market and Matthews Fruit Stand already serving as popular stops for locals to sate their appetites for fresh seafood and produce, the addition of an upcoming butcher shop and new restaurants will give the revitalized Sauls Street an Epicurean feel for lovers of the culinary arts to savor. The Lake City Downtown Merchants Association holds monthly meetings to ensure that participating businesses maximize their potential for success by sharing ideas, and joining forces to spend marketing dollars more efficiently and effectively. With the success of recent revitalization projects, and the promise that future plans hold, Downtown Lake City is poised to become a destination for shopping, dining and entertainment like never before. All the buzz about revitalization in Lake City is exciting and encouraging, and the LCDMA is proud to play its part in creating a bright future for downtown Lake City.

LAKE CITY DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION PRESENTS

Sip ‘N’ Shop

Saturday, July 15

12p-4p

Things To Do & See, Shopping & Dining, & Places to Stay THINGS TO DO & SEE:

Downtown Fashion 120 E Main Street

Polyphony Music 135 W Main Street

The Bean Market 111 Henry Street

East Main Market 139 E Main Street

Promotion Rehab & Sports Medicine 148 Sauls Street

Greater Lake City Artists Guild The Elegant Bee 112-A Sauls Street 110 E Main Street Jones-Carter Gallery 105 Henry Street

Greater Lake City Chamber of Growing Up Green Commerce 115 W Main Street 144 S Acline Street Moore Farms Botanical Garden 100 New Zion Road Ronald E. McNair Life History Center 235 E Main Street

SHOPPING & DINNING: Baker’s Sweets 129 E Main Street Beach Cruisers 127 E Main Street Becky’s Salon 113 S Acline Street Bella’s Salon 146 W Main Street Bold & Sassy 109 N Acline Street The Bridal Shoppe 107 E Main Street Carrie Belle’s Calicos 410 W Main Street Chehaw River Woodworks 111 Cash Avenue The Clubhouse Grill 160 Club Circle Crossroads on Main 128 W Main Street

Greater Lake City Community Development Office Greg Alexander 108 E Main Street, Lake City, SC 29560 (843) 374-0171 galexander@glccdo.org

Fairview Framers & Antiques 102 E Main Street

Dancin’ on Main 145 E Main Street

Hanna’s Tailoring 111 Sauls Street

Rabbit’s BBQ 842 E Main Street Railway Charcoal Grill & Club Car Pub 144 S Acline Street Ray’s Auto Wash 120 N Church Street Seven Monogram Boutique 130 E Main Street

Jarrito’s Family Mexican Restaurant 114 W Main Street

So-lace Spa & Boutique 127 W Main Street

Jewelry Creations 107 W Main Street

Southern Distributing Co. 111 N Church Street

Joe’s Barbershop 100 W Main Street

Suit World 113 N McAllister Street

Lake City Mattress Outlet 121 W Main Street

The Market 252 N Church Street

Lake City News & Shopper 143 E Main Street

Thomlinson & McWhite 210 E Main Street

Main Street Mercantile 111 E Main Street

Three Rivers Historical Society 154 W Main Street

M & D Drug Company 117 E Main Street

Totally Tanned Salon 118 S Acline Street

Marshall’s Marine 114 E Myrtle Beach Highway

Ward’s Fish Market 123 N Acline Street

Matthews’ Fruit Stand 100 Sauls Street

Ward’s Comfort & Style 104 E Main Street

Merle Norman Cosmetics 117 W Main Street

Willard’s Barber Shop 113 Sauls Street

Mosaic 113 W Main Street

PLACES TO STAY:

Olio Studio 104 W Main Street

Days Inn of Lake City 170 S Ron McNair Blvd

Pee Dee Thrift of Lake City 219 N Church Street

The Inn at the Crossroads 128 W Main Street

Pirates T-Shirts Plus 111 W Main Street

Security Inn & Suites 319 Sumter Street

DeAnna’s Bath & Body 112 E Main Street

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

TECH SAVVY

Jessica Cohen The power of networking, knowledge, a great vision, and determination have all led Jessica Cohen to create a solution to a problem. In an ever changing tech savvy world with a disconnect between generations of leaders, parents, and teams, it has become more difficult for clear communication. After her experiences as a college student athlete and career working for the City of Hartsville, Jessica has used her knowledge to bring a valuable mobile app to life that will be beneficial to many. JUGLR is a mobile app designed to enhance the communication and increase engagement among studentathletes and their coaches. It is equally beneficial for music or band groups and dance troupes. Because of its blend of functionalities, the app is also poised to facilitate the communication between coaches and parents. It does so by compartmentalizing obligations as well as conveniently housing communicative activities within the same platform. Jessica was a student-athlete for six years where she recovered from two torn ACLs. She achieved a Masters Degree, started her career, and currently holds the role as the Sport and Group Tourism Coordinator for the City of Hartsville. “I’ve had many athletic experiences that have gone on to help shape my world view. I’m blessed.” Jessica had the unique opportunity to work with a mobile developer to construct the City of Hartsville Tourism App in 2015. She became inspired to apply some of what she previously learned to solve problems in the coaching and athletic world she had already identified based off of her experiences. “Being a student-athlete I am all too familiar with the importance of being able to juggle obligations. I took the knowledge I gained from the app developer and jotted down notes of ideas for a mobile app. I knew nothing other than what I learned and had no idea where to begin.” Jessica sat on the idea for months and did not think

VIP Magazine | July 2017

Changing the Way Coaches and Teams Communicate story by Jordan Pupa

of the concept until November 2016 when she was at a conference in Columbia, SC. She ran into someone who had the Hartsville Tourism App on their phone. In a room full of people, the gentleman happened to sit next to her during lunch. His role was a mobile app developer. As their conversation progressed, they exchanged business cards and started to get to work. From November to April, they worked with two demo versions, explored the market analysis, polled coaches and players, and checked out the competition. JUGLR is currently in the Pilot stage allowing teams and groups of various makeups to test the demo version. Demo features include a media center, shared calendar, group chat center, and push notification capabilities. The fully featured Version 1.0 and all of its functionalities will not be released until later this year. “I want to gain as much feedback as possible before launching 1.0. I believe with the full list of functionalities the app will be able to challenge communicative instructor/ apprentice societal norms. That is one of the ideas I am most excited about.” Jessica is grateful for the opportunity to have met and connected with someone with the knowledge and experience in the industry who believes in the concept as much as she does. “With JUGLR, I plan to present a solution to crossgenerational communicative preference disconnect and stagnant communicative societal norms in the athletic industry, while providing a convenient platform for all communication that occurs outside of face-to-face interaction.”

If your team or group is interested in exploring communicative trends and the JUGLR app, contact Jessica Cohen at JUGLRApp@gmail.com to learn more.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Marc Kremer & Stephen Winter

Handcrafted Whiskies and Flavored Moonshines Straw Hat Distillery, LLC is Dedicated to Keeping It Local story by Heather Page In 2014, Florence welcomed Stephen Winter and Marc Kremer to its plethora of admirable entrepreneurs. These two engineers-by-trade brought a somewhat “new” profession to the Florence business world that offers a rich history of manufacturing - distilling whiskies and flavored moonshine. Straw Hat Distillery is the first of its kind to the area, and making itself well known to those looking for quality, tasty spirits. Straw Hat Distillery started through a friendship interested in brewing beer. With the idea to produce a brew made from locally grown crops, Stephen and Marc ran into a problem; their primary farmer didn’t harvest barley, but instead corn. “There was only one solution; instead of producing beer, we switch to whiskey and moonshine,” said Stephen. And so they did. Making sure to meet the legal restrictions, the duo began by purchasing a building on Douglas Street to distill and bottle their product. The distillery is operated under South Carolina’s Micro Distillery Law where they are allowed to make up to 125,000 cases of spirits per year. Stephen and Marc are dedicated to “keeping it local.” The corn and wheat used are sourced from local farms in the Pee Dee. In addition, the fruits, coffees, and teas used to flavor are completely natural. “The proof is in the taste of the shine,” says Marc. Their quality whiskey is based on the Single Pot Still method which basically means the whiskey is produced in very small batches all at once. The process is both tedious 22

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and captivating, as they crack and cook the grain, convert the starch into a sugar, ferment the sugar by adding yeast, distill at elevated temperatures to turn the spirits into a vapor, and then reverse that process by turning the vapor back into a liquid. Throughout the distillation process, they handle the spirits in four different cuts, using a gradual and slow process. These cuts are referred to as foreshots, heads, hearts, and tails. Straw Hat Distillery focuses on the hearts that contain primarily ethanol and the most desirable congeners. Leaving their product rich in flavor, smelling great, and with a smooth taste. “We aim for the good stuff,” says Stephen. The store front is licensed to sell to the public, and offers tours and tastings on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Straw Hat Distillery is offered in a variety of flavors and potencies. “The name moonshine can often deter folks because it’s typically known for having a high volume of alcohol. Straw Hat has spirits with reasonable alcohol content that wine drinkers will enjoy, as well as a higher alcohol content for those who consider themselves a cocktail mixologist.” Along with whiskey and moonshine, Straw Hat has aspirations of making high quality bourbon in the not so distant future. Your new favorite spirits can be accompanied with a purchase from the Straw Hat merchandise store of a mini barrel to create you own personal bourbon. So, consider finding your place around the Straw Hat bar counter this summer, experiencing the flavors of a locally owned and operated distillery.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

POSITIVE PURSUIT

MIGHTY

MEN

by Brad Lewis, Palmetto Street Church of God

As a father, I have purchased things for my children that have the dreaded words, “some assembly required.” These items test my patience, as the instructions in many cases are not easy to follow and it seems there are always parts left over. What I have learned from these experiences is that every instruction and part is vital for proper assembly and function. If parts are missing, or instructions are not followed, things will not operate as intended. Life has “some assembly required” aspects. God has given His word as instruction knowing how things need to function. Following His instruction insures nothing is left lacking, and everything functions as it should. As we evaluate society, it is easy to see things are not functioning properly. To recognize the problem is not enough, we must go back and look at the instruction to see what is missing. As I look through the word, one key element God called on and assembled when society was in warfare, was mighty men. Anytime families, cities, and nations were under attack, God call the strong, valiant warriors to stand up, defend, 24

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and fight. Where are the mighty men? Where are the mighty men to fight and defend families, our cities, and nations? God calls the mighty men in the days of the prophet Joel to make a decision - who and what they would fight for. (Joel 3: 9-10) Proclaim this among the nations: “Prepare for war! Wake up the mighty men, Let all the men of war draw near, Let them come up.10 Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears; Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’” Four things God instructs that need to be assembled for mighty men to stand up. First, wake up the mighty men! The spirit of valor and power needs to be awake in you. Men, God created you to be mighty; you are someone’s champion. That mighty man in you must be woken up. There are things that the mighty man in you must fight for while you still have them to fight for. Second, draw near to God. Being a mighty man is not always about physical strength, but it does always contain spiritual strength. The mighty men God wants are men that understand their strength comes from their relationship with Him. The strongest man on the face

of this earth is a Christian man. Draw near to God and be strong in prayer, faith, and love. Thirdly, take what you have and fight. We have a tendency to focus on everything we don’t have, and therefore we do nothing. God told them to take the simple things you do have and make weapons out of them and fight. 1 Samuel 17 shows us it can work. David, as a very young man, took a stone and sling and killed a giant that men were afraid to fight. David’s key to being a mighty man was he had a relationship with God and he took what he had to fight and win. Fourth, refuse to remain the same. God said let the weak no longer say they are weak but let them say they are strong. You must refuse to stay in your mistakes and regrets. God is calling you to step up and step out. Our personal lives, families, cities, and nations are too important to not assemble ourselves together as mighty men and stand up and fight for what is right in God. I challenge you, wake up that mighty man in you - walk in the strength of God, fighting with what you have, refusing to stay as you are.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

EXPERIENCE HARTSVILLE

ONLINE MASTER’S DEGREE Coker College Offers Options for Today’s Flexible Lifestyle By Jordan Pupa As the city of Hartsville continues to flourish, so does Coker College, the town’s beautiful, historic liberal arts college full of friendly faces, exceptional educators, and challenging educational programs. The graduate school opportunities Coker offers have grown throughout the past few years, with two very recent program additions in Management and Leadership, and Education in Curriculum and Instructional Technology. With an understanding of the desire for a flexible lifestyle, the programs offered are completely online, with the exception of one hybrid program, making the dreams of furthering education an achievable reality.

The Master of Science in College Athletic Administration program was the first graduate program Coker offered and has been a huge success to the institution. The program is designed for those interested in pursuing an advanced degree and career within college athletics. Courses cover everything from Law and Ethics, to Finance, to NCAA Compliance. Coker’s MSCAA program has been ranked twice recently in national reports as one of the Top 25 Best Accredited Online Master’s in Sports Management Programs for 2017 and Top 30 Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees in Sports Management.

Coker College now offers a total of five graduate programs that reach a variety of markets with a competitive cost. Programs include Master of Science in College Athletic Administration, Master of Science in Applied Criminology, Master of Science in Management and Leadership, and Master of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Technology, all of which are completely online fifteen-month programs with six-week class sessions. The Master of Education in Literacy Studies is a twelve-month hybrid program that offers a combination of online and in-person coursework.

“We have alumnus all over the country working at institutions in compliance, as coaches, athletic directors, in sports communication, and more.”

Lacey Rice-Serafin

“Being that our programs are online we receive interest from all across the US, not just within South Carolina. We currently have students enrolled from South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Michigan, New Jersey, Kansas, California, and the list goes on to even include international students,” shares Lacey Rice-Serafin, Interim Director of Graduate Admissions at Coker College.

VIP Magazine | July 2017

Coker’s newest programs include Master of Science in Management and Leadership, and Master of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Technology. Both programs are set to begin this fall and have had an overwhelming amount of interest and support already. The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Technology program is geared towards technology driven educators looking to bring the modern, digital approach to their educational setting. The program has a heavy emphasis on developing a thorough and cutting-edge curriculum for students. A SC teaching license is not required for enrollment. The Master of Science in Management and Leadership program is for those looking to advance within their career or organization, gain valuable leadership and decision-making skills, and increase their human capital management knowledge. The program will prepare leaders who can address today’s unique challenges by learning from real-world scenarios,

presented through Harvard Business Review case studies. Applicants are not required to have a business degree to pursue the graduate program. Educational backgrounds of all areas of study are considered in order to gain a more diverse student body of current and future leaders in the workforce. Lacey Rice-Serafin states, “The trend of professionals pursuing online programs is becoming more prevalent in the ever-changing workplace. Professionals need to stay current with trends, technology, and education, and more people are finding a graduate degree is the pathway to career advancement. Between work, family life, and personal obligations, being in a classroom is not always realistic to busy professionals, but they have the drive to continue their education. Coker’s programs are not only accredited and taught by faculty with realworld experience, but also are competitive in price compared to larger programs.” Coker College continues to strengthen its relationship with the local community and beyond by providing new educational opportunities. The diverse online master’s programs offered, at a reasonable price, are providing an option for many to continue their education when it was once not an option.

Davidson Hall

For more information on Coker College graduate programs, or to schedule a presentation or meeting for employees or staff, please e-mail masters@coker.edu or visit www.coker.edu/masters. The Master of Science in Management and Leadership program is expected to launch in the fall of 2017, pending accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

COVER STORY

Photos by Heather Byrd, Infinity Images

â&#x20AC;&#x153;All children in Darlington County will have safe, loving, stable families; engaged mentors; and a supportive community that enriches their lives and empowers them to meet their fullest potential.â&#x20AC;? Top: Isaac Brito, Alex Brito and Bo Hill; middle: Scottie Hill, Becky Hill and Anna Hill; Bottom: Anna Bec and Trent Hill-Brito July 2017 | VIP Magazine

COVER STORY • Trent Hill Center

Leaving A Legacy to Remember Making A Difference in the Lives of Local Children & Families story by Ashley Elvington

Anna Hill with grand

children, Anna Bec an

Many of us grow up idolizing athletes and celebrities, dreaming of a life full of fame and fortune. As we grow older, however, we realize that the true inspirations in life are the people we come in contact with every day. For Scottie Hill, her inspiration is none other than her late father, Trent Hill Jr. Trent was well known in his community, a local celebrity in his own special way, as a highly respected businessman in the financial world due to his outstanding career as Vice President of Finance and CFO of Sonoco Products Company. He was also a devoted church member and trustee who spent what free time he did have working hard in his community while raising a family. Perhaps one of the most memorable aspects of Trent’s life, however, is his love for children. According to his daughter Scottie, Trent often opened his own doors to many local children – whether their needs were financial, lack of encouragement or guidance, etc. Scottie shares, “Growing up, my parents welcomed a rather eclectic and sometimes eccentric group of kids into our home. Kids that were struggling with isolation, anxiety, drug use, divorce, poverty, and racism were welcome in our home. My dad was one of the most powerful executives at Sonoco, but he lived his life with humility and acceptance. He was kind, compassionate, loving, tolerant, and revered a certain respect and admiration that I rarely see in people.” Trent’s wife, Anna, adds, “Two words I often hear to describe Trent are integrity and compassion. Throughout all his life, he faced each challenge with both.” Although Trent passed away four and half years ago, his legacy continues to this day. Scottie admits, “Still, people stop me in stores,

VIP Magazine | July 2017

d Trent

restaurants, and on the street to tell me how much they respected and admired him. His life and his values are worth remembering.” With the lifelong dream of starting a nonprofit organization, Scottie began teaching in the social work program at Coker College once she moved back home to Hartsville. After conducting some research, she was heartbroken to learn of the high statistics of neglected and abused children in Darlington County and the Pee Dee Region. Many children, due to a shortage of foster homes in the area, are placed as far away as Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and Sumter. “They are not only separated from their homes, but also from their schools, churches, communities, towns—any person and any place familiar to them. How can we expect any child who endures these various instances and levels of trauma and separation to excel and succeed? Our children deserve to be close to home, and they deserve to be given the resources to succeed.” With her father’s compassion flowing through her veins, Scottie decided to open a children’s home. It didn’t take long for word to spread, and she was soon contacted by House of Hope in Florence, who had recently received a house in Hartsville by William Bell’s family. This dream was meant to come true…solidified even further after the children’s home was 501(c)3 approved during its first application submission. Once the doors of the Trent Hill Center are officially open this fall, they will provide housing to Darlington County children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment. This may call for emergency placement or temporary foster care, however, Scottie

Our mission is to provide trauma-informed care to our community’s most vulnerable children in a setting that fosters physical and emotional safety; intellectual and spiritual well-being; curiosity, creativity, and exploration. We provide services in partnership with individuals, families, and organizations within our local community.

and her team are well prepared with loving hearts and open arms. The location is beautiful, as the brick ranch-style home sits upon two acres of land with an ample backyard for children - including a covered walkway and picnic area - and their families to spend time together. There is also a 2,000 square-foot building in the back for administration, counseling offices, a visitation center, and indoor play area if sufficient funds are received. Their current mission statement reads as follows: “To provide trauma-informed care to our community’s most vulnerable children in a setting that fosters physical and emotional safety; intellectual and spiritual well-being; curiosity, creativity, and exploration. We provide services in partnership with individuals, families, and organizations within our local community.” For Scottie and her team, it is of extreme importance to keep kids local and keep siblings together. “[We want to] help families STAY families. Sometimes that might mean providing residential care for children while their families are recovering/ healing/working; other times, it might mean providing preventive services to families, counseling services to families, advocacy services to families, or moving into recruiting and training foster care families.” Currently, they can house up to nine children at one time and are accepting males and females, and seeking licensure to provide care to those ages 0-21 years. Most referrals come from DSS and if enough funds are raised, they would be open to accepting private placements and housing homeless youth from other organizations in the area. Ultimately, the Trent Hill Center for Children and Families is a celebration of Trent and the inspiration he has left on his family and community. “He enveloped my mother, siblings, and me with love—the type of love that we, as a family, cannot contain, but must share with others. I think he would be incredibly proud of the Center. He believed that every child should have equal opportunity to be loved, to thrive, and to succeed. I

think he would be especially proud that we have used business savvy and sense to build an organization based on what he valued most—family.” Speaking of family, Scottie isn’t the only member of the Hill family involved in this special project. While she is the Founder and President, there are several others who are playing a crucial role in the Center’s success: Becky (Scottie’s sister) is the Executive Director; Bo (Scottie’s brother) is a donor and takes on projects as needed; Anna (Scottie’s mother) is a major donor and helps with furniture, decorating, cleaning and sorting donations; Alex Brito (Scottie’s husband) assists Scottie and family with everything from lawn maintenance to donations and volunteers; Isaac Brito (Scottie’s stepson) spends his visits from Miami volunteering and helping with various tasks; and last but not least, Anna Bec Hill-Brito (Scottie’s five year old daughter) and Trent Hill-Brito (Scottie’s four year old son), who donate their own toys, clothes, and books to the Center. Each member plays a special part in this family affair, all seeking inspiration from the incomparable Trent Hill. Bo shares, “Dad’s children meant so much to him, I really can’t think of a better way to carry on his legacy in our family and in this community than by providing a space like the Trent Hill Center.” Anna adds, “It is my hope that the Trent Hill Center will offer a sanctuary to children who are experiencing difficulty in their lives. The Center will offer them a place of hope, peace, and joy. I am humbled that my children have chosen to honor their father in such a meaningful way.” For Becky, it’s rather difficult choosing the words that accurately describe what the Center means to her. But it all goes back to family. “I see it as a way to give back to a community that took very good care of us while our father was sick for many years... It was a rough road. In addition, I can think of no better legacy for my precious dad. In his house, everyone was loved, cared for, and welcomed. This is the kind of space we aim to provide for these children.” Alex shares, “No child should be left behind in their time of need. Children should have

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

COVER STORY • Trent Hill Center

a safe place where their needs can be met. I am proud of my wife and her family for providing this safe place where children can be placed until they are reunited with family. I know Mr. Trent Hill would be proud of his daughters’ accomplishment.” The family is forever grateful to live in such a loving, helpful community. From a successful “Music and Merriment” fundraising event in December 2016 to every newspaper story and TV coverage spot, each has helped get the word out about this wonderful organization. It didn’t take long for Scottie to receive requests about public speaking, which opened the proverbial flood gates for donation calls to come into the Center. She and Becky are still active in speaking and are grateful for every opportunity to share this passion project with their beloved community. “The response has been absolutely, positively wonderful, overwhelming, and humbling. The community has really rallied around us, and I would not have gotten as far as I have without their support.” So many have lent a helping hand to the cause, including: children in the community who collected donations rather than gifts at their birthday parties, church groups/ congregations and Vacation Bible School groups, local foundations, the Hartsville Women’s League, The Mantissa, De Baz, civic groups and corporations, F3 Hartsville, Coker College students, mission camps and youth groups, locals, Lowe’s, the Hartsville Chamber of Commerce, House of Hope, and nonprofit professionals. Of course, this is just a few who have contributed since the Center’s establishment. Herb Nicholson, of F3 Hartsville, shares his reasons for helping the family, “I’ve known Scottie for 20+ years and am glad to help her. In our F3 group, part of our mission is to give back to the community. The combination of knowing Scottie and looking for an opportunity to give back made the Center a perfect project to get involved with. What she’s doing with the Center is a worthwhile cause and a real need in our community.” The Trent Hill Center will have a Grand Opening event on August 26th with food, drinks, live music, and activities for kids and families. There will also be a tour of the Center for all to view and enjoy. In the meantime, they are graciously appreciating any and all monetary donations made to the Center. There are no worries as to achieving this goal, as has the spirit of quite the influential man as its foundation. “In our family, we know love… We know compassion. We know family and how vital it is to the well-being of each and every child. Through this organization, we can share that and try to make some small difference in the lives of local children and families.” 32

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Isaac Brito

It truly does “take a village” to take care of our community’s children!

The Late Trent Hill

Donate by Mail: Trent Hill Center for Children and Families 121 N. Fifth Street, Suite 200 Hartsville, S.C. 29550 For Other Ways to Help: 843.309.5502 www.trenthillcenter.org

Scottie Hill MS, LISW-CP, LCSW

PROFESSIONAL AT PLAY

Florence RedWolves Coach

TRAVIS GRAVES The year is 2017 and the Florence RedWolves are in their 20th season of play in the beautiful city of Florence. The team has redirected itself in the way of a new head coach as Travis Graves from Eastfield College has taken the reigns for his first season as the RedWolves Skipper. Graves, who resides in Forney, Texas, is no stranger to the CPL as he was an assistant coach this past season with the Savannah Bananas. Graves was also an assistant in 2015 with the Martinsville Mustangs. He has spent parts of five seasons as an assistant coach at Eastfield College. In his first season with Eastfield, the Harvesters won the NJCAA Division III National Championship and finished the season with an impressive 40-22 record. “We are thrilled to have Travis be a part our organization,” said RedWolves owner Kevin Barth. “He has a very impressive resume and has been a winner at every level as a player and as a coach, including the CPL. Travis is a fantastic addition to our team, and clearly has the same passion for baseball that we have. I am sure that he will put together a roster of players that can win it all.”

A Plethora of Great Talent On and Off The Baseball Field story by Audie Wise

VIP Magazine | July 2017

Graves spent one season (2011-12) as a graduate assistant at the University of Southern Mississippi before returning to the Harvesters program in 2012. Eastfield has won each of the last four Metro Atlantic Conference (MAC) championships dating back to the 2013 campaign. Graves has had the opportunity to coach 12 All-Americans, 20 NJCAA All-Stars, and seven players that have eventually signed professional contracts.

photography by Tindall Hutchinson, Shutter Up Photography

“We are so excited that Travis has accepted the head coaching job,” said Osborne. “I believe that he is a good fit for us. He has coached in the league for two years, one of which, he coached with Savannah, who were the Pettit Cup Champions this year. He knows what it takes to win and how to win a championship. We have high hopes and expectations for this season.” “I’m extremely honored to have been given the opportunity to manage the Florence RedWolves,” said Graves. “The owners [Kevin and Donna] and general manager [Barbara] are class acts that go above and beyond the necessary requirements for running a collegiate summer league team.” “My staff and I are working around the clock to bring in the best players to represent the RedWolves and the city of Florence in the CPL. Florence is a great city and we look forward to bringing quality baseball to the community!” Graves has stuck true to his word as the Florence RedWolves are off to their best start in the organization’s history. A plethora of great talent on and off the baseball field, the players wearing Red and Black have done an exceptional job of buying into Graves’ coaching style. Florence is now the summer home for many of college baseball’s stars of tomorrow. The roster Graves and his staff have produced is by far the best the organization has ever put together. The players for the RedWolves are very much buying into the winning mentality that Graves has installed. Through the first nine games of the season the RedWolves have not lost a game and lead the league in several offensive and defensive categories. Florence hasn’t seen this kind of success in the existence of the organization, as they’re off to their best start in team history. July 2017 | VIP Magazine

AGRIBUSINESS

G Squared

Urban Farms First and Only Certified Tower Garden Seedling Distributor in South Carolina story by Elizabeth Burrows

here is nothing greater than transforming a passion into a profit; that’s exactly what Kellie and Randall Altman did with G Squared Urban Farms. Their journey began with finding simpler treatments for family sicknesses. Their children had problems with asthma and chronic migraines; Kellie’s mother battled neuropathy and high blood pressure; and her father fought COPD and lung cancer acquired by farming with chemicals. Kellie was a practicing Registered Nurse with McLeod and constantly educated herself on new medical innovations that could maintain, or even cure, family health issues. After years of fighting the uphill battle, an aunt introduced her to clean eating, specifically through Juice Plus+. This introduction was the beginning of a new life for Kellie and her family. Kellie, like many, was skeptical of the products that flooded the market and claimed natural cures or remedies. However, she was keenly aware of the importance of proper diet and nutrition, even in spite of the southern cuisine that laid claim to her dinner table all of her life. With little place else to turn, Kellie fully embraced the new lifestyle Juice Plus+ offered. After a few months of trial and little error, “The results were better than good; the results, in truth, speak for themselves!” she says. Each member of Kellie’s family benefited from the natural nutrients they received from Juice Plus+, so much that symptoms of illnesses were becoming fewer and further in between. With the changes so evident in family members, Kellie wanted to increase her awareness of clean eating and was soon led to Tower Gardens. Aeroponically grown vegetables and fruits now line a 3,000 square foot greenhouse on a corner of Kellie’s property and goes by the name G Squared Urban Farms. Designed in partnership with Juice Plus+, the Altman farm is one of 36

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the first few vertical aeroponic food farms in the

Kellie Altman

Southeast U.S. It is operated by solar power with minimal water consumption. G Squared is a Certified SC Farm member, part of the SC Farm Bureau Association, and has partnered with the USDA and CFSA to become GAP certified. Kellie’s efforts quickly gained the attention of Jody Martin, Director of Pee Dee Food Hub. Jody helped enhance Kellie and Randall’s journey to growing green, and insisted they invite local chefs and restaurant owners to the farm, letting them witness and even taste the organic, non-GMO treats grown right here in the Pee Dee. That suggestion led Kellie to building partnerships with Red Bone Alley, Town Hall, Rivertown Bistro, Bonfire, and Victor’s. When walking down the aisles, Kellie points to each Tower identifying which restaurant will soon receive the palatable vegetables. A partnership with Pee Dee Food Hub allows G Squared produce to be delivered directly to restaurants, grocery stores, churches, and other businesses in the Pee Dee. The partners work via a program called Carolina Farm Share, based on the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model where consumers buy shares of a farm’s harvest in advance. This allows the Pee Dee Food Hub and G Squared Urban Farms the opportunity to aid in the improvement of health and wellness, food safety, and traceability of produce. In addition to supplying locals with a great selection of green produce, Kellie is passionate about educating others on how to eat clean. Juice Plus+ provides lesson

Tower Gardens plans for 5k through twelfth grades so that Kellie can teach students how to grow what they eat. She also holds seminars informing others on how to grow and prepare clean meals. “We shouldn’t feel defeated by genetics or our demographic. The supplies we need to live a clean lifestyle are available, people just need to become aware.” What began as a trial has blossomed into a passion to help everyone in the Pee Dee. “I love Florence County and I care for the people that live here. It’s my goal to help get everyone healthy.” Kellie continues, “With God’s grace, I found my calling and now it’s my mission to help others!”

To learn more about G Squared Urban Farms, visit g2urbanfarms.com or call 843-687-0959. July 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

VIP Magazine | July 2017

Let’s Cruise Main The Town of Mullins cruised down Main Street like the good old days on Saturday, June 3rd. The event organized by The Greater Mullins Chamber of Commerce featured The Jebb Mac Band, a Low Country Boil prepared by Drunken Jack’s of Murrells Inlent, Cornhole tournaments, and Freckles and Giggles hand-crafted ice cream. Locals entered their cars into the Cruise Main Car Show. All were encouraged to stop by “Butch’s” and blow their horn for service from one of the carhops, order a burger prepared by Margaret’s, and to stop by Cafe’ on Main for the famous “Butch’s Burger”.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

VIP Magazine | July 2017

BBQ CHICKEN FUNDRASIER On June 20th, Florence community members and volunteers held a lunchtime fundraiser to help raise money for the Plasman Family! Gillian Plasman was diagnosed with Stage IV Esophageal Cancer. She along with her family (husband Paul and children, Owen (cancer survivor) and Layla) desperately need support and prayers. BBQ Chicken plate tickets were sold; the group also hosted a Bake Sale. If you desire to help this family as well, you may donate to SNAC (Gillian Plasman in memo line) and mail to: SNAC 823 W. Evans St. Florence , SC 29501

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

AROUND TOWN

Lip Sync Battle On June 8, representatives from Pee Dee businesses rocked the stage at SiMT in an epic lip sync battle to raise money for the Florence Area Literacy Council. Novel Event 2017 “Lip Sync Battle”, the Literacy Council’s annual fundraiser was held at the SiMT building. Guests were entertained by performances that included music from Billy Joel, Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson, Robert Palmer and many more. The performers, sponsors and guests helped the Florence Area Literacy Council raise $25,000. The Florence Area Literacy Council is a community based non-profit that works with adults who are struggling with illiteracy.

photography by Fred Salley 42

VIP Magazine | July 2017

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

HAPPENINGS

FLORENCE FEATURED EVENT

Saturday, July 29 11a-12p Southern Hops 911 S. Sunset Acres Ln, Florence Grateful Dog is a music festival to raise money for area humane societies. Live music, vendors, kid and dog friendly! Event includes 14 Bands, Inside and Outside Stages, 15 Vendors, Motorcycle Run, Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, Face Painting, Tie-Dying, Cutest Pooch Contest and Fabulous Food! Raffle Grand Prize is a Grand Piano (on display at musical depot)

GRATEFULDOGFESTIVAL.COM 100% of Proceeds Benefit Local Area Humane Societies

1.......................................................................................................................... 17th Annual Sankofa Festival | Timrod Park 2p-8p 3......................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 4......................................................................................................................... Independence Day 5......................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 7......................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p 8......................................................................................................................... Florence Family Day | Florence County Museum 13........................................................................................................................ Florence Redwolves 7p 14....................................................................................................................... The Music Man, Jr. @ FLT 7:30p 15....................................................................................................................... Florence Redwolves 7p The Music Man, Jr. | FLT 7:30p The Spazmatics Concert | Renaissance Dining Courtyard 8p 16....................................................................................................................... The Music Man, Jr. | FLT 3p 17........................................................................................................................ Florence Redwolves 7p 21........................................................................................................................ The Music Man, Jr. | FLT 7:30p 23....................................................................................................................... The Music Man, Jr. @ FLT 3p Independence Games | Civic Center 25....................................................................................................................... Florence RedWolves 7p 28....................................................................................................................... Florence After 5: The Classic Rock Exper | Downtown 5:30p Florence Redwolves 7p Shenandoah | FMU PAC 7:30p 29................................................................................................................................. FDTC Back-to-School Bash 10a-1p Grateful Dog Fesival VI | Southern Hops 11a-12p WEEKLY EVENTS Wednesdays.................................................................................................. Wine Down Wednesday | Dolce Vita 4p Thursdays....................................................................................................... Trivia Night | Southern Hops 7p Saturdays........................................................................................................ City Center Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market | Downtown 9a

July 2017

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S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JULY 2017 CALENDAR OF EVENTS DARLINGTON 21........................................................................................................................... Bringing Downtown Alive- Free Concert | Liberty Lane

HARTSVILLE 5.................................................................................................................. Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball Season Starts | TB Thomas Sports Center 6.................................................................................................................. Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p 8.................................................................................................................. Screen on the Green: Jungle Book | Burry Park 9p-11:30p 13................................................................................................................. Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p 14................................................................................................................ Quarterly Ambassador Meeting | Chamber 9am 20............................................................................................................... Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p Connections After Hours: Macon State Farm 5:30p-7p 22................................................................................................................ Screen on the Green: Finding Dory | Burry Park 9p-11p 27................................................................................................................ Centennial Farmers Market | Downtown 3p-6p

LAKE CITY 8............................................................................................................................. Herbal Oils & Vinegars | Moore Farms Botanical Garden 10a-2p 13........................................................................................................................... Art After Dark | Olio Studio 6:30p 15........................................................................................................................... Sip N Shop | Downtown Merchants 12p-4p 20.......................................................................................................................... A Walk in the Tropics | MFBG 9:30a-12p Art After Dark | Olio Studio 6:30p 22.......................................................................................................................... Summer Series: Super Tasters | MFBG 10a-11:30a 27.......................................................................................................................... The Impact of Foliage | MFBG 9:30a-12p Art After Dark | Olio Studio 6:30p 29.......................................................................................................................... Gardening in the South | MFBG 9:30a-12p

MARION 1................................................................................................................... Celebration of Heroes | SwampFx Entrmt Complex 3p-10p 14................................................................................................................ State Softball Tournament Opening Ceremony CD Joyner Auditorium 7p

DILLON 8-12....................................................................................................................... 2017 Dixie Softball State Tournament

TIME TO TOAST

Local Salute

Hartsville Chamber Welcomes Its Newest Board Member In April, Brian Ham began his term as member of the Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, completing the last year of Casey Copeland’s term after his resignation in February. “Casey was an active board member and I appreciate his work during his service to the board. I am looking forward to working with Brian, as he brings to the board entrepreneurial expertise and new, fresh ideas,” remarked chamber president Quinetta Buterbaugh.

FDTC Educational Foundation Announces Winners of Golf Tournament Congratulations to the four person teams from Raldex Hospitality and Wilcox Office Mart for winning this year’s Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) Educational Foundation College Classic and Corporate Challenge, Thursday, May 18th at Traces Golf Club. This was the 15th year that FDTC’s Educational Foundation has held the tournament. This year’s fundraiser was cosponsored by iHeart Media of Florence and the Morning News. Raldex wins the Corporate Trophy and Wilcox takes this year’s College Classic. Money raised by the tournament helps students with scholarships administered by the Foundation. Teams in the tournament also competed in hole in one contest that featured grand prizes of $25,000, a lease on a new Cadillac or a Honda ATV.

Pictured L to R: T. Lang Beaty, Linda Sullen, Sharolyn Robinson and Katherine Barnette pose with their awards after the Francis Marion University annual Staff Awards Luncheon

FMU Recognizes Outstanding Staff Service Francis Marion University honored four employees with special awards at its annual Staff Awards Luncheon Thursday on campus. T. Lang Beaty was the recipient of the John J. Kispert Leadership Award, and Katherine Barnette received the Marvin Lynch Humanitarian Award. Linda Sullen and Sharolyn Robinson were named winners of the university’s two Outstanding Staff awards. Beaty, the recipient of the Kispert Award, is the university’s assistant director of purchasing. He has been with FMU for 34 years. The Kispert award recognizes staff members who exhibit the drive, determination and initiative to embrace the mission of their departments and to inspire their colleagues with a higher standard of leadership than what is called for by the particular employee’s position. Barnette, who received the Lynch Award, is a digital and print media designer within FMU’s University Communications Department. She has been with Francis Marion for five years. The Lynch Award recognizes a staff member who exhibits an unusual commitment to and care for his fellow man at both work and elsewhere. Sullen is an accountant within the Payroll Department. She has been employed by FMU for 41 years. Robinson is a custodian and has been with the university for 11 years. Both Sullen and Robinson were cited for exemplary service and dedication to their jobs.

There was also a $500 dollar prize for this year’s putting contest. The winner was Jack Marchette! In the photos: First place Corporate Challenge team winner is Raldex Hospitality. From left to right, Roger Allen, Gary Taylor, Kirby Anderson and Corey Wallace. First Place College Classic team winner is Wilcox Office Mart. From left to right, Wes Powell, Luke Coates, Shane Gebhards and Luke Wilcox.

Florence County Emergency Management Announces Employee of the Quarter Seventeen year Florence County Communications veteran Lori Stephens has been selected Employee of the Quarter for Florence County Central Dispatch. Lori could be described as a loyal, loving, talented, sincere, determined, adventurous, and resourceful person. These are just some of the words that come to mind when you think of Lori Stephens. She is a lively person as well as co-worker. She has good work ethics and believes in hard work. Lori approaches work with determination, because she believes in doing her best and when you do your best you feel accomplished and satisfied. Lori loves people. She can get along with any and everybody. That’s why it’s so easy for her being a team player. Whether it’s helping create a new agency logo or singing karaoke at a tavern, you can always count on Lori to give her 110%.

In the Spotlight Florence Ranked Second in Collegiate Summer Baseball Rankings It was announced on Thursday, June 22nd that the Florence RedWolves were named to the Top 30 Collegiate Summer League Baseball Teams by Collegiate Summer Baseball. The RedWolves are 13-4 on the season entering play Thursday night. In week one of rankings produced by the prominent Collegiate Summer Baseball organization, the Florence RedWolves come in ranked at the Number Two collegiate summer baseball team in the United States. For the second time in as many seasons, the RedWolves have found themselves atop nationally prestigious rankings in Summer Collegiate Baseball. In 2016 Florence was ranked third overall in the country in stadium atmosphere and fan experience by Stadiumjourney.com and Scout.com. Florence is off it its best start in franchise history to begin the 2017 campaign. Opening the season with ten straight wins, head coach Travis Graves has put a consistent product on the field for all to see. “We just go out there and play baseball. Pitchers get in and throw strikes. Our guys are seeing the ball well and hitting them to the right spots,” Graves said. “To win championships you have to have a championship mentality. We want to go out there and win every day.”

City of Darlington Receives Cherry Picker A cherry picker was delivered to the City of Darlington and replaces a 1986 vehicle. This will be one of three new pieces of equipment coming to the Street & Sanitation Department this year. The “cherry picker” vehicle makes collection of yard debris more efficient than raking up material by hand, which is what staff has had to contend with a lot this season. The other equipment headed to town includes a new garbage truck, which replaces a faltering one from 2008, and another new cherry picker that should arrive in September thanks in part to a grant from U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Hartsville Chamber Names Newest Member Liaison Murphy Monk is the member liaison for the Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce. Her responsibilities include member outreach, working with the chamber’s Ambassador program, and online marketing for the chamber. She also serves the community’s needs through maintaining a presence in the Chamber office to assist visitors with any of their chamber business. Murphy explains “I am excited to a beacon for all chamber members. I hope members will see me as their representative to ensure they are reaping the benefits of their chamber membership!” Murphy holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from Clemson University. During her time at Clemson she was on the President’s List and Dean’s List, was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and Lambda Pi Eta Communications Honor Society where she served as Social Media Director, and a Clemson University Welcome Coordinator.

Diamond Hill Plywood Company Announces New Executive Leadership Diamond Hill Plywood Company (DHP), the premier wholesale building materials distributor in the southeast, is pleased to announce that G. Patrick Smith, III, CPA, has joined the company as Vice President of Finance. He has extensive knowledge with thirty years of experience with public and private companies throughout the Carolinas. In this executive leadership role with DHP, Mr. Smith will be managing financial and operational related matters with an emphasis on Corporate Finance Restructuring, Strategic Planning and Market Expansion. “We are excited to have such exceptional expertise and talent joining the company,” said John Ramsey, the company’s CEO and owner. “My brother, Jim, and I, are confident Patrick will be a strong asset to our team.” Mr. Smith lives in Mullins, SC with his wife, Kristin, of twenty-nine years. They have two children; Pat and Ben. Mr. Smith is a graduate of Wofford College where he was a four-year Varsity letterman in Golf. Diamond Hill Plywood Co. is a third-generation company established in 1945 as a wholesale distribution medium for the Ramsey family-owned plywood manufacturing business, Darlington Veneer Company, Inc. Diamond Hill Plywood Co. is one of the country’s leading suppliers of an extensive inventory of various building materials.

Amerprise Financial Expands Congratulations to Robert and Tiffanie Dew on the expansion of their business. Amerprise Financial is now in Florence. You can make an appointment with them by calling: 1-800-963-6120. They look forward to advising you on all of your financial needs.

ALL ACCESS

Circle Park

Behavioral Health Services

Circle Park Board Member Gavin Criser shares how local business professionals are directly affected by the current prescription drug issue. Gavin Criser

With Circle Park leading the way in education and treatment of addiction in the Pee Dee Region, it comes as no surprise that their board would attract individuals whose professions deal with the direct bodily effects of drug abuse. Endodontist, Gavin Criser, has served on Circle Park’s board for two years after being recruited by the current CEO, Randy Cole. Circle Park realized the potential value of having a health care professional’s perspective, specifically one in the dental industry. While Gavin says that he doesn’t come across it all that often, the issue of prescription drug abuse has become a much bigger problem over the past decade. “It’s a very sobering subject.” Gavin says, “You always hear about people with narcotic addictions and we typically think about cocaine or heroin but that’s not always the case.” As any healthcare professional understands, the problems with prescription abuse is on the rise. Gavin believes that people don’t just become addicted to pain medication overnight. He believes that it all starts with the misconception that pain medication should be prescribed to eradicate pain and that is simply not the case. “I try to explain to patients, it’s pain control and it won’t eliminate the pain 100%. Things are still going to hurt and they are supposed to.” Gavin thinks that the misunderstandings about pain management,

story by Rion McAllister and folks not wanting to feel any pain at all, often is the first step down the long road to addiction. In today’s health care atmosphere it can be hard to differentiate between drug seekers and those who are truly seeking a means for pain management. “Drug seekers don’t just come in asking for drugs; they do research.” Gavin says, “They research what the signs and symptoms are to specific problems. They then claim those in order to get the drugs.” So how do medical and dental professionals tell the difference? Health care professionals see first-hand the literal and physical manifestation of abuse in the mouth and oral tissues. They also rely on other signs of abuse evident in a person’s skin, hair, and other behaviors as well. Ultimately, each prescriber has to make a judgement call and in Gavin’s opinion, it is always better to err on the side of caution and prescribe as conservatively as possible. With new tools and regulations put into place, South Carolina Practitioners no longer have to rely merely on intuition and gut feelings, however. The State of South Carolina has provided a portal to check prescription history to provide health care professionals a tool to screen and ultimately care for their patients better. They have also made it mandatory for prescribers to check patient prescription history before prescribing certain classes of opioids. This regulation has really just put the burden of responsibility back on the shoulders of the practitioners. The hope is that with continued public and practitioner awareness and education, prescribers will move forward with a renewed sense of responsibility that will benefit and promote the individual as well as the community.

Contact Circle Park Behavioral Health Services: 238 South Coit Street, Florence (843) 665-9349 • www.circlepark.com Circle Park’s Outpatient Treatment and Administative offices

VIP Magazine | July 2017

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

FLORENCE COMMUNITY

Are You Ready to Build Lasting Business Relationships? Leadership Florence is Accepting Applications story by Mike Miller, President of Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce The Chamber just concluded its 2016-2017 Leadership Florence Program with a celebration and plaque presentations in May. This year’s group of 38 community minded individuals raised more than $32,000 for local charities through its class project - a Disco Ball Event at the Waters Building in Downtown Florence. The Chamber offers a big salute to these hard working and adventurous individuals, and their respective organizations that sponsored them. It’s not surprising that each year this program grows and the group performs beyond expectation. The Leadership Florence Program is a nine-month program that starts in August and runs through May of the following year. It’s all about connecting community leaders and future influential individuals. It’s about building relationships, exchanging ideas for professional growth and understanding the community we live and work in. Participants will experience private sector business operations, visit non-profit organizations, gain knowledge of governmental and educational processes and share comprehensive exposure with our area manufacturing entities. Each leadership class has developed a different personality set over the last 30 years. But one key take-away among each group is everyone walks away with new relationships. These will be life long and life changing friendships that can prove beneficial tomorrow, next year or in five years. We still hear the stories of what these connections have meant to the success of individuals and local organizations. It’s a special program that clearly delivers what it promises. So now, it’s that time again. The Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for next year’s class. Ask someone that has been through this experience about the benefits of the program. You’ll be convinced to take part.

For more detailed information on the area’s signature business growth program, you should contact the Chamber offices at 843-665-0515. Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce

Contact Mike Miller: 100 W Evans St, Florence 843.665.0515 | mmiller@flochamer.com flochamber.com

VIP Magazine | July 2017

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

IN THE HEAD OF

James Aikens Owner of Rita’s of Florence and Supporter of Alex’s Lemonade Stand What led you to purchasing Rita’s? My wife, Karen and I have always wanted to own a business. Karen is a native of Philadelphia where the Rita’s brand originated. Two years after moving to Florence we were in Philadelphia visiting family and friends on the first day of spring, which is also the day Rita’s gives out free regular size ice. It was particularly cold and snowing in Philly when I noticed a line of people wrapped around a Rita’s building. Curious, I asked my wife what Rita’s was and she explained that concept. As she was explaining, I googled the temperature in Florence and it was 78 degree. I said to my wife, ’It’s 78 degrees in Florence and it’s snowing here in Philadelphia and there is a line… How would this concept work in Florence?’ It was further solidified when Karen’s parents came to visit us. They agreed Rita’s would do well in Florence because it is warm for almost 10 months out of the year. We went to a Rita’s seminar in 2007 and opened our doors on July 4, 2008!

What is Alex’s Lemonade Stand? Alexandra ‘Alex’ Scott was diagnosed with childhood cancer just before her first birthday. At four years old, she set up a front-yard lemonade stand to raise money to help doctors find a cure. Her first ‘Alex’s Lemonade Stand,’ raised an astonishing $2,000 in one day. While bravely fighting her own cancer, Alex continued to set up lemonade stands every year. As news spread of the remarkable girl so dedicated to helping other sick children, people everywhere were inspired to start their own lemonade stands - donating the proceeds to her cause. In 2004, Alex passed away at the age of eight - her stand and inspiration had raised more than one million dollars towards finding a cure for the disease that took her life. Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) was started by her parents in 2005 to continue the work Alex began. It’s mission is simple: to raise money for and awareness of childhood cancer causes, and to encourage and empower others, especially children, to get involved and make a difference for children with cancer.

How does Rita’s support ALSF? Friendly staff at Rita’s

Contact James at Rita’s of Florence: 804 2nd Loop Road, Ste A-1 | 843.799.5006 ritasofflorence.com 52

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We set aside the entire month of July to publicly raise money for this worthy cause. Our goal is to cure childhood cancer one cup at a time. Guests can purchase a $1 lemon each time they visit and their lemon is posted on our store front during July. All funds raised will be donated to ALSF to help fund lifesaving research!

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

ALL ACCESS

J. V. Martin Auditorium

y, Gerald Berry, Chairman, Barbara Herring, Treasurer, Mary Miller, Secretar t Presiden Deneene Herring, and Terry Morris, Vice

Dillon Historic School Foundation An Organization formed by citizens interested in preserving historic schools in Dillon story by Lorene Bridgers Arnette In March, 2010, a group of Dillon citizens interested in saving and renovating the former J. V. Martin Auditorium organized with two major goals. Their principal goal was to restore and return the use of the Auditorium to the Dillon Community. Additionally they wanted to have the facility recognized as an important historic place. The Dillon Historic School Foundation (DHSF) began working on their first objective – evaluating the work needed for the restoration of the auditorium.

to the

As the assessment continued, they worked with the South Carolina Department of Archives and History and the National Park Service, a division of the United States Department of the Interior to have four of the buildings on campus listed on the National Register of Historic Places. That goal was soon realized with approval in 2014, followed in June, 2016, by the installation of a Historic Marker in front of the campus.

The buildings listed include: the Dillon Graded School, built in 1896, later renamed “West Elementary” and knowned locally as “The White Building” for its white 54

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brick exterior; the cafeteria wing constructed in the mid-1950s; and the auditorium and gymnasium, both constructed in 1936 under the Roosevelt Administration’s Works Progress Administration (WPA), a public works program during the Great Depression Era. Other goals achieved included attaining 501(c) (3) non-profit status from the IRS, changing the name of the organization, and subsequently acquiring ownership of the auditorium from the local school district, Dillon District Four. With ownership of the J. V. Martin campus came new challenges; however, the original goal of opening the auditorium is still primary for DHSF members. Construction on the Dillon Public School began in 1912 as a simple two story building with classrooms on the first floor and an auditorium on the second. The red brick building was decorated with white trimmed windows that lined its entire front. A concrete plaque was placed above the double doors of the building that proudly read “1912.” Later the gym and auditorium were built, using WPA funding. These facilities, designed by architect Henry Dudley Harrell, feature large arched windows lining the sides of both wings allowing light to flood inside. The Auditorium includes two stories and seats over one thousand (1,000) people.

The auditorium has perfect acoustics in all areas due to the wood interior and the slightly convex structures of both the ceiling and the rear wall that create an unequaled acoustical quality. The extraordinary view of the 60-foot wide stage from every seat of both the main floor and the balcony are continued evidences of the superior design and construction supervised by architect Harrall. Over the years the imposing stage was home to all kinds of grand productions. The inaugural performance was a musical concert with guest artists Edgar Alden, violinist, and Miss Aileen McMillan, pianist, both faculty members at Meredith College, Raleigh, North Carolina. In addition, local participation that evening featured a Community Chorale and Miss Rebecca Field Henslee, Dillon native and a renowned pianist and organist. Other performances over the years included noted pianist, Ossip Gabrilovitch, a Russian-born American pianist, conductor and composer, trained in piano and composition at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, with Anton Rubinstein, and later, in Vienna. He was married to Mark Twain’s daughter, Clara Clemens, a singer who appeared with him in recital. He performed in Dillon in 1926, after escaping from World War I Germany in 1914, with the assistance of the Bavarian Archbishop, who later was designated Pope Pius 12th. Locally-grown artists have graced the stage including: Michael Lee as featured piano soloist with the Columbia Philharmonic Orchestra; Robert MacDonald, pianist and composer; Sara Ann Noles, renowned as the foremost Gilbert and Sullivan soprano east of the Mississippi; Jimmy Woodle, gifted pianist; Elizabeth Tolar, soprano soloist, and many others. In addition to musical presentations the stage has been home to dramatic productions including “The Golden Land,” a play recounting the origins of Dillon County, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green, as well as local recitals, little theatre productions, and touring companies performing the great plays and musicals of Broadway. The academic building served the community as Dillon High School from 1920 until 1970, with an original enrollment of 82 students. In 1970, a new high school was constructed and the facility became a middle school and was renamed J. V. Martin Junior High School, in honor of long term, and revered District Superintendent Mr. Joseph V. Martin, who served the school system for 29 years. Ten years later, on November 8, 1980, the central portion of the main building tragically burned to the ground. The administrative office, the library, and 16 classrooms were obliterated. Fortunately, the auditorium and gymnasium survived the fire.

View of stage and seats in the historic, J. V. Martin Auditorium

When the current junior high school, Dillon Middle School, was constructed, the J. V. Martin campus was left unused. At that time, the Dillon Historic School Foundation (DHSF) renewed their dream of reviving the school’s esteemed auditorium. The group consists of approximately 40 members with 13 primarily active members. The support has stretched nationally as well as internationally. The vision for the auditorium is returning its use to the community of Dillon for school performances, dance recitals, church functions, and even political group meetings. Early in his 2007 successful run for election as President, Barack Obama made a campaign stop and spoke at J. V. Martin to an interested group of local citizens. DHSF has achieved tremendous success since their beginning in 2010, but not without facing obstacles. Outdated wiring and lighting, mold, broken ceilings, and disintegrating floors pose serious repair challenges. Despite these difficulties, with the community’s physical and financial help, restoration is on its way. A major undertaking, replacing the auditorium roof, has been completed and the group looks forward to the next project. Local businesses, area industries, and private citizens are key to providing the financial support needed to reopen the auditorium’s doors. DHSF actively encourages the Dillon Community to bring its own rich cultural past to the present by supporting their efforts. As their brochure reads, “Historic Places give us roots, teach and inspire us, enhance community pride, and make communities more attractive.” It is quite clear that the school’s successful restoration is meaningful to not only the members of DHSF, but to the entire community.

As the late Miss Helen Culp, Dillon High School’s beloved and prestigious band director said, “After many years of use, multiple repairs are needed to return this fine ‘Old Lady’ to her former beauty.” July 2017 | VIP Magazine

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Feeling Better with

Fillers & Fat

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

Have you looked in the mirror lately and wondered where did that youthful full face go and why do I always have bags under my eyes? It is a problem that all of us face while we age, some earlier than others. Many people notice it after a large weight loss. Most conditions do not require a face-lift, as they may be isolated to one or two areas of the face. So what do you do to fill that face out again? Fortunately, modern cosmetic science has developed many and varied products to fill in those sagging areas. At Genesis we offer both fillers and your fat as an answer to the question. There are now many and varied choices with fillers so that one thickness does not fit all. For instance in the Juvederm line of fillers there are thicker ones made specifically to address the sagging under the eye and thin velvety ones that are made to enhance the lips or fill in those unsightly pucker lines. In between there are mid grade thickness fillers that are designed to go in the face to fill out around the mouth, nose, and mid-face. The newest Juvederm fillers, Volbella and Vollure, now are noted to last longer after injection than their predecessors and are not prone to cause swelling as before. By assessing your needs, fillers can be paired to the area of need and used in combination with Botox for wrinkles in other areas. Unlike in years gone by you are not limited to a “one size fits all areas” as customization has proven to be clinically better. Filler injections are done in the office in as little as 15 minutes and do not require any down time. We so commonly have patients that have more marked volume loss or are looking for a more 56

VIP Magazine | July 2017

Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center Medical Director and Co-Founder

enhanced lift than what is achieved by fillers. The fat transfer to the face is an answer to that problem. We can harvest your own fat and after gentle processing add Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) using your blood platelets then precisely place the fat in your face to address the volume loss areas. The advantage over filler is that: (1) using YOUR own tissue, not a bio-engineered product; (2) it lasts longer than filler; (3) allows us to use more volume in each area particularly under the eye or around the mouth; (4) can enhance the “glow” of the skin because of the presence of the platelets. Fat harvesting is done first, usually on the abdomen and that fat is then used for the enhancement. The harvesting can be done in conjunction with a full LipoSculpting or done as a “harvest only” procedure without sculpting…depending on your desires. Not only can the face be enhanced with fat but also the breasts, buttocks, hands, and other problematic areas of the body where enhancement is needed or desired. So now how do you decide on which route to take? Certainly for smaller isolated areas or specific enhancement in small areas such as the lips, filler is likely the best choice. However, with multiple areas, larger areas, or more severe volume loss, the fat transfer needs to be considered. At an appointment with Genesis, we can help you decide what route or combination of routes you need to achieve that more youthful look. Call us soon at 843-669-2220 and one of our professional staff will be glad to assist you. For more information, please visit our website at genesiscosmeticlasercenter.com.

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

TAX PREP

SEND ME IN,

COACH story by Elizabeth K. Campbell, EA

If you followed my tax season articles you should have noticed a point I stressed many times – plan all year long for your taxes. You should work with your Tax Professional throughout the year if new things come up; check your withholdings to make sure you are on track for the end of the year; and pre pay tax liabilities to avoid penalties. If you stay on top of your taxes, you will no longer fear your tax return and will be more relaxed all year knowing where you stand because of proper planning. Your tax return should not be like a surprise party. It should be like a cruise coming into port so all you have to do is grab your luggage and hop off. I lecture my clients every tax season to call me even if they are unsure if an event will create tax issues. I would rather take the time when it occurs than give you a gift at your surprise party – “well, Mr. Smith because you did not talk to me about taking money out of your IRA and you are not of age yet for distribution, you owe $20,000.00 in taxes plus a 10% penalty.” Happy birthday to you! True tax professionals work year round and our goal is to get you to ground zero so you do not owe and do not get large refunds. If we work with you and/or your investment advisor we can plan strategically and make sure you are not thrown into another tax bracket and pay in estimated payments to avoid penalties. So many times when I meet with a client we run into things like changing jobs, under withholding, retirement, death, etc. I call those catastrophic tax return changes and advise my clients to return in July, once they have their final June paychecks. Why July? That gives me true numbers for a full half of the year to work with and better estimate where they will be at year end. It also gives us time to adjust withholding or make estimated payments. The IRS frowns upon you not paying your tax liability in the year it occurred and most clients do not want to pay out a lump sum plus penalties at the time of tax return preparation. Why not just take the bull by the horns and correct it ahead of time? Your wallet will thank you. I have some business clients that bravely tackle their own accounting work and bring me their numbers at year end. That too can create a disaster for growing businesses

VIP Magazine | July 2017

if I only see the numbers after the close of the year. I cannot fix anything or make suggestions for change if I only see the financials when it is time to do the return. Once you turn the calendar page from December 31 to January 1, the fat lady has sung and some clients are left hoping she won’t be singing the blues. I advise these clients to meet with me in July as well, with their income and expenses totaled for the year through June. Again, I have a half of a year to base year end numbers on and several months to strategize for the best possible outcome for my client and their business. Think of your tax professional as your tax coach – there to practice until we find the right plays that work for you and your specific tax situation. To be cohesive in this matter, we need you to schedule strategizing appointments, ask questions so you understand the process, be totally honest about your situation and follow our advice. We are a team with the mutual goal of you making the winning score on your taxes. I love nothing more than to see a prepared client, ready to finalize a return that says, “Put me in Coach, I’m ready to play.” That’s when I know we have both done our jobs and we are about to win the game together!

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

July 2017 | VIP Magazine

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Lt. Tenyonde Richardson Special Events and Community Outreach Division “ I serve as the Community Outreach Lieutenant; my job along with all officers in the department is to bridge the gap between the communities and police. There are many things we do in the outreach division including: Coffee with a Cop, National Night Out, speaking to kids at various Upcoming Events:

Saturday, July 1 Butler Heritage Foundation Parade Saturday, July 8 Screen on the Green Saturday, July 22 Screen on the Green Contact Lt. Richardson at 135 West Carolina Ave. in Hartsville, SC or call 843-383-3011.

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schools, and attending career fairs. We believe all of these play an important role in the community in order to make it better. The main reason we do this job is to help make the relationship between community and police stronger. If we’re divided, we are weak, if we’re together, we are stronger, for we are building these bridges on the foundation of T.R.C., Trust, Respect and Commitment.”