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
Contributing Photographers Nancy Devon Carsten Phillip Guyton Collin M. Smith Contributing Writers Pasha Buyck Elizabeth Campbell, EA Ashley Elvington Allison Gray Meredith Kelley Shawn Maxwell Jack Muench Jordan Pupa Meredith Stanton Mindy Taylor
Creative Design Tuesday Taylor
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
The most adorable little girls can certainly make anything look great. Thanks to the great staff of Hartsville CDJR for letting us borrow their babies for the photo shoot and a VERY special thank you to Cypress Tree Farm in Bishopville for allowing us to use the farm for the back drop!
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ISSUE 25
DECEMBER CONTENTS 8 Paying It Forward Hayley Childress
10 Under The Dome Wilcox, Buyck, & Williams, P.A.
14 In The Head Of Jebb Mac Band
16 Business Spotlight Miller Elizabeth Designs
18 Health & Wellness Circle Park
20 Professionals at Play Southern Traditions
22 Fashion for Work & Play Hartsville Boutiques
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24 Agribusiness
48 Time to Toast
Lamb’s Christmas Trees
26 Business Spotlight Trendz Salon & Gift Shop
29-33 Cover Story Hartsville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
34 Florence Community Mindy Taylor
36 Paying It Forward Emmanuel Christian School
38 Paying It Forward Hartsville Young Professionals
46 Happenings
50 Tax Prep Maintaining Financial Freedom | Elizabeth Campbell
52 Balancing Act Donna Maguire
54 Business Spotlight Pee Dee Tourism
56 Launch Bow Wow & Meow
58 Employee Spotlight Mary Kelley
60 In Your State The Market Common
PAYING IT FORWARD
HAYLEY CHILDRESS
Fulfilling Life’s Calling story by Ashley Elvington
‘Tis the season to give! While many are Black Friday shopping, or just shopping for the perfect gift in general, Hayley Childress is looking to give to the world in a different way. Born and raised in Florence, South Carolina, 23 year old Hayley thought she would pursue a career in music. However, God had bigger plans that would eventually unfold. In 2014 while attending a special event, Hayley was introduced to the ever-growing tragedy of human trafficking. She recalls the awareness event, saying, “My eyes were opened to the injustices around me… I knew there had to be more and a life lived only for myself, at the end of the day, was really just fruitless.” It was then Hayley made a vow to fight for justice. “After much praying, I knew God wanted me to leave my life for six months to be a part of this – to learn, to serve, and to grow.” Next year, Hayley will be journeying to Tauranga, New Zealand, to receive training from an outreach program called Justice Reach New Zealand, where she will stay for three months and then spend two extra months
in outreach in a different country. Justice for New Zealand’s sole purpose is to fight for “the one.” But, what does this mean?
In today’s world, 35 million people are slaves, with two million being children.
As horrific of a reality it is to face, human trafficking is a serious, growing issue all over the world. While Hayley knows she can’t save them all, knowing she made the difference in the life of just one is enough to keep the flames of her passion burning. She elaborates, “It’s the ripple effect – one can change another and that other one changes another, and so on… Justice is something everyone can pursue, no matter where you’re from or what your story is.” Through the outreach program, Hayley will have the ability to work towards solutions while hopefully saving lives. “This program is an opportunity to act on my beliefs and I don’t want to miss out on it.” In order to be enrolled within the program, however, Hayley
will need to raise $7,000 by December 25, 2017 (January 8th at the very latest) – this will cover the program, travel expenses, immunizations, and all documents needed. While she’s not asking for money, Hayley gladly accepts all of the prayers she can get. She’s also asking for one small motion from her community that has the ability to make a big difference – to stop and think. “Think about what you believe in and how you can create a positive ripple effect today… Sometimes the best place to start in our pursuit of justice is in our own heart and mind, because that will eventually spills out into our actions.”
To assist Hayley in her pursuit, visit https://www.gofundme.com/justice-training-and-outreach. 8
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December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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UNDER THE DOME
TAX REFORM? TAX SIMPLIFICATION? FAIRNESS? OR NONE OF THE ABOVE As we are all well aware, both the House of Representatives and the United States Senate have put forth proposals for what is termed “tax reform.” Sadly, our polarized society and political system is poised to pounce on virtually any such proposal as being, depending upon one’s point of view, the reform of an unfair system, the simplification of an unduly complicated system, or a thinlydisguised medium for hidden agendas and oppression. Whichever point of view one takes, it is certain that extremely complicated and far-reaching legislation is being undertaken in a very short amount of time, and, whatever comes out of the process, there will likely be years of “technical corrections” to deal with cross currents that are not completely understood in the instant process. Further, the Legislation seems to be being played out in the court of public opinion, with the result that critical provisions (for example, the deductibility of home mortgage interest and the deductibility of various state and local taxes (e.g., state and local income taxes, state and local property taxes and state and local sales and use taxes) seem to change from one day to the next. At present, here are several of the differences between the legislation proposed by the House and by the Senate.
story by Jack Muench
At this point in time, the final result will be anyone’s guess, but the haste with which this far-reaching legislation is being prepared augers ill for a well-integrated and rationally connected final product. 1. Reduction in the number of brackets. Theoretically, reducing the number of brackets can be termed “simplification.” The Senate Bill’s new brackets would reduce rates on most income. The House version apparently is less friendly to individual taxpayers, but the House has already increased the number of brackets. 2. Reductions in Deductions. In this instance, simplification was to take the form of providing for significantly fewer deductions. The September framework called for only two deductions, the charitable deduction and home mortgage interest, with the home mortgage deduction being limited to interest on the first $500,000 of the loan. Currently, the House bill features deductions or credits on eight different items, several of them either to commence or expire at different times in the future. The Senate bill features deductions or credits on nine different items, chief among them being increased deductions for mortgage interest, deductions for medical expenses, and deductions for student loan interest. The House bill currently allows the
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
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VIP Magazine | December 2017
248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.662.3258 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 | Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.650.6777
deduction for state real property taxes up to $10,000, while the Senate bill contains no such provision. As one might imagine, each of these deductions, and many others, is backed by a vocal, well-funded constituency. Both pieces of proposed legislation do away with other popular and, arguably, socially beneficial deductions; indeed, in several instances, corporations can still claim many deductions, but individual taxpayers cannot. These differences may be narrowed by the $12,000 (individual, $24,000 joint) standard deduction, but at this point the author’s accountant, at least, cannot meaningfully predict how the author will make out under each of the proposals. 3. Timetable for the Corporate Tax Reduction. The proposed rate cut is from 35% to 20%. Under either scenario, federal revenue is projected to be reduced by $1.46 trillion over the next decade. Some argue that that cost will be offset by increased economic growth, but historically, tax cuts have not produced growth sufficient to offset their costs. The Senate proposes to delay this cut until 2019, which would allegedly save $108 billon; the House version would commence in 2018. While the United States has the highest corporate tax rate among major developed economies, when deductions and other loopholes are taken into effect, the overall corporate tax burden is near the bottom of that of other developed economies. 4. Repeal of the Estate Tax. The estate tax is proposed to be repealed over time (House version) or feature an exemption double the current one (currently about $5.4 million (Senate version)). 5. “Small Business� Pass-Through Entity Issues. The House would propose to cap the tax rate for such entities at 25%; the Senate plan would continue taxing pass-through business at the individual rates (with a top proposed rate of 38.5%) but would allow most pass-throughs to deduct about 17% of their business income from their taxes. A welter of proposals have come out in the last several weeks, including (on the House side) the creation of a new, lower 9% tax rate on the first $75,000 of income. The pass-through proposals are among the most controversial and complex in either version. As the legislation firms up and more details are forthcoming, future articles will explain concerns with the proposed pass-through system, including, but not limited to, the fact that the same taxpayer involved in the same business may have different rules applied to her depending on whether she is paying tax on positive earnings or seeking to deduct losses from that activity and applying them against other income. Certainly, choice of entity considerations will become paramount, a situation that is highly unlikely to be simple, fair, or predictable.
Jack Muench Concentrating in Corporate Law, Tax Law and Estate Planning
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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ADVOCATING HEALTHCARE
Your Role in Preventing HIV Transmission story by Shawn Maxwell, Community Outreach Coordinator, HopeHealth
For 30 years, December 1st has served as an opportunity to publicly show support for those living with HIV and AIDS and to honor those who have lost their lives to the disease. Designated as World AIDS Day in 1988, the day also provides the opportunity to raise global and local awareness of the impact HIV continues to have in our communities. There are nearly 19,000 individuals living with HIV in South Carolina. Preventing new HIV infections in rural communities requires involvement from both health care providers and the community as a whole. This year’s World AIDS Day theme is focused on “increasing impact through transparency, accountability, and partnerships” and is particularly appropriate at community health centers like HopeHealth. As health care evolves into more integrated and coordinated care models, services for patients living with and at risk for exposure to HIV are improved. This integrated approach marries primary care and other health care services, such as HIV management, pain management, chiropratic care, and even dental services, to treat the individual as a whole. Supportive and supplemental services are also provided through the development of internal and external partnerships that enhance health care for patients. The World Health Organization’s goals of “Getting to Zero” and having an AIDS-free generation by 2030 is dependent upon collective engagement in HIV prevention and everyone identifying his or her
role. Whether it is sharing facts on your social media accounts, attending a forum, requesting an HIV test at your routine check up, hanging a flyer for a testing event, or attending annual events such as HopeHealth’s AIDSWalk, there is a role for every person in eliminating HIV. Let HopeHealth help you find yours. HopeHealth Infectious Diseases has expanded its role through enhanced HIV services with five specialists and providers who deliver HIV care to patients in Florence, Orangeburg, Aiken, and most recently, Clarendon counties. Additionally, Pediatrician and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist, Michael K. Foxworth II now provides HIV services for children and teens in Florence. It is, however, the external partnerships that most impact HopeHealth’s role in the prevention of HIV transmissions. Partnerships like those with local pharmacies, colleges and universities, and even county detention centers provide thousands of individuals the opportunity to receive HIV and STD education as well as free testing in accessible and convenient locations. Partnerships like those with local providers, rural clinics, and hospitals provide many individuals Wear a red ribbon with fast, direct, and confidential during the month of referrals to treatment and December to support additional educational HIV/AIDS Awareness. Post services that might your red ribbon selfie on social otherwise be difficult to media using #HHRedRibbon. find and navigate. Free ribbons are available at
For more information about HopeHealth HIV services or to learn how you can help, please call (843) 667-9414 or visit hope-health.org.
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the HopeHealth Medical Plaza front desk located at 360 N. Irby St., Florence.
IN THE HEAD OF
To learn more about Jebb Mac Band, visit www.jebbmacband.com.
Q&A WITH JEBB MCMILLAN OF THE
JEBB MAC BAND
As many in the Pee Dee can agree, it’s a privilege to be in the audience of a Jebb Mac Band performance. They claim the stage spouting the lyrics to some of our all-time favorites, such as “Wagon Wheel” (Old Crow Medicine Show original and re-released by Darius Rucker), “I’ll Take You There” (Staple Singers original) and “Hot in Herre” (Nelly original). However, Jebb Mac Band is perhaps most famous for their original “Sip of That.” VIP had the honor of sitting down with Jebb Mac to learn more about his career as an artist and what helped him gain his local claim to fame. Q: Where did your music background originate?
Q: What is your most memorable moment during a show?
A:” I’m from Mullins, South Carolina. I wrote my first song when I was in the 4th grade (Shout-out to Mrs. Fowler!) called “Say No to Drugs,” which was a rap song. We won a school competition and we got to sing it over intercom for the school. For a 9-10 year old, that was a pretty cool experience; but as I got older, I focused more on sports. I played basketball, football and baseball, so music kind of took a back seat to that until I got into college. One of my biggest regrets is not picking up the guitar earlier.”
A: “I don’t know that I have a most memorable moment during a show, per se. But, the most memorable tour was definitely getting to do a four city stretch as the opening act for Snoop Dogg. This was back when I was a member of Justin Smith & the Folk Hop Band (out of Columbia, SC).”
Q: What is your profession outside of music? A: “During the day, I’m your neighborhood “drug dealer”... as in pharmaceutical sales, legal drugs! I work for AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals and sell respiratory products.”
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Q: How far has the band traveled to perform? A: “About as far as we’ve gone recently is Jonesville, Louisiana. It’s about a 12-hour drive. But when you think of a band as a business that you’re running, we will travel just about anywhere as long as the money or exposure is right and as long as it makes sense from a business perspective.”
Q: Any current or upcoming albums we should be looking for? A: “We’ve been back and forth to Nashville a lot working with Grammy nominated producer Kent Wells. He’s also worked with big time artists such as Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire, just to name a few. Our newest EP (extended play) that we recorded with him is now available on all download or streaming sites (iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Apple Music). We’re really excited about it and we’re already itching to get back in the studio and get some more songs recorded.” Q: What is your personal favorite Jebb Mac song and why? A: “I don’t know that I’ve written a favorite song yet. I’m always hoping my favorite song will be the next one I write. I try to write music that’s based on either my personal experiences or someone else’s personal experiences. The main thing I want to accomplish when writing is to write songs that people can relate to.” Q: Talk about your family. A: “My wife, Jamie, and I have been married for six years now. We have two little boys, Gray (4) and Smith (1 and a half). Working a full-time job, being a full-time dad, and being a weekend warrior with music can sometimes get overwhelming, but the support that I get from Jamie and my family is nothing short of amazing. They have always believed in me, even when sometimes I was on the verge of losing faith in myself…For that, I am forever grateful.” Q: Tell us about your band mates. A: “Nelson James (drummer) works in the Hoke Co. (North Carolina) school district as a guidance counselor and tennis coach. Tyler Roberts (electric guitar) is a cost procurement coordinator at Honda of South Carolina in Timmonsville. Emery Henderson (trombone) works in the shipping department at West Rock in Florence. Don Colton (saxophone) is a full-time musician down in Myrtle Beach. Emma Hamilton (keyboards) works at Avis Transport in Mullins. And, Jeff Springs (bass) gives guitar lessons and also works at Barnes and Noble in Florence.”
Special congrats from all of us at VIP Magazine on the band’s recent single,
“Sip of That,”
which has gained over 150K views on YouTube. (Now available for download at iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Apple Music) December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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AGRIBUSINESS
photograph by Collin M. Smith
Carmen (artist), Leighton, Miller & Jamie Smith
Miller Elizabeth Designs Using her creativity, Carmen Smith has been able to share artistic talents through Miller Elizabeth Designs, a hand-lettered print business she started while also being a stay-at-home mom. Miller Elizabeth Designs specializes in hand lettering of invitations, chalkboards, wooden signs, and so much more. Embracing her talents while creating hand-lettered, one-of-a-kind treasures for others allows Carmen to carve out a little time for herself as she balances her duties as a wife and mother of two, with another on the way. Q: Where are you from? A: “I was born and raised in Florence and attended West Florence High School.” Q: What is your creative background? A: “I received a degree in Engineering Graphics and Civil Engineering. I actually decided on Engineering Graphics thinking it would be more of the graphics than engineering… I quickly learned it was the opposite! I have always enjoyed coloring, doodling, and writing. I was the type that would take notes and rewrite them later so they would be “pretty.” When our friends started getting married, I addressed their wedding invitations and it has just blossomed from there!” 16
VIP Magazine | December 2017
Q: Where did the name Miller Elizabeth Designs come from? A: “Miller is my son’s middle name and Elizabeth is my daughter’s middle name!” Q: What kinds of items do you create? A: “I create hand-lettered prints for wedding gifts, nurseries, home décor, wooden signs, baby hospital door hangers, baby shower and birthday party decorations, etc. Chalkboards are a favorite of mine! I’ve had the honor of making them for pregnancy announcements, gender reveals, birthday parties, weddings, baby showers, bridal showers and more. I welcome custom projects! I recently did an oversized nursery print to be hung over a crib. It had “Jesus” in big gold metallic lettering with “Loves Me This I Know” written underneath in pink. Normally customers will send me a description or picture of something they have in mind and we will customize it for their home. I love seeing pictures of the pieces we designed together decorate their walls. It is so humbling and brings me so much joy! I also love doing any and all holiday pieces! I have Christmas ornaments that make the perfect little gift right now. They have done so well that 10% of all sales from them will be donated to Toys for Tots. I plan to take my children to pick out the toys to donate as a learning experience for them and to teach them to demonstrate the love of Christ, especially during this special time of year!”
Q: What do you love most about this business? A: “There are two things I love most about “MED Co” (as my husband has nicknamed it). The first is
...being able to share God’s love through the talent He has blessed me with. This business was a thought and a dream for a long time, so the timing and how well it has taken off just has the Lord’s name written all over it. The second is it makes me carve out a little “me time” for something I enjoy doing aside from being a wife and mom. I am grateful I get to do something I love while still having the privilege of staying home with my babies.” Q: Will you still be taking orders in December? A: “As Of right now, I will be taking orders in December. I am not sure yet if I will need to do a cutoff date, so get your orders in as early as possible! This is my first holiday season, so I am not sure what to expect! You can contact me on Instagram (@millerelizabethdesigns) or via email (millerelizabethdesigns@gmail.com).” Q: Finally, what can you tell us about your home life? A: “I married my high school love, Jamie, five years ago. We have two children, Miller (3) and Leighton (1), with a third due in February! This is definitely a family business. Miller helps me with the painting, while Jamie and my dad help me with the wood projects. We have a black lab named Beau, and we are members of Greenwood Baptist Church. We have a large family with close friends intertwined and we love to spend time with them. It’s big and crazy, and makes life fun!”
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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HEALTH & WELLNESS The holidays bring a variety of events including family gatherings, social and office parties, gift giving, festive celebrations and spending time with friends and loved ones. These joyous activities are meant to be positive experiences, rekindling traditional emotions and strengthening family, social and personal bonds.
‘Tis the Season to be Safe story by Circle Park Behavioral Health Services
photography by David Gray
For many, the holidays can also become in a phrase, “too much”. Too much commercialism, too much shopping, too much food, too much spending and most concerning, too much alcohol. Many holiday traditions have become intertwined with alcohol and excess use, leading to a significant increase in alcohol related car accidents, personal injuries and emergency room visits. Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can also be exacerbated by the holidays and increased alcohol consumption. According to Lakyn Bendle, a clinical counselor with Circle Park Behavioral Health Services, “too much” does not have to be part of your holiday activities and threaten your safety or that of loved ones. “The pressures and stress of the holidays don’t need to dictate the choices that you make. With a little planning and setting a few reasonable boundaries, you can ensure that you have a relaxing, enjoyable and safe holiday season.” Ms. Bendle encourages everyone to do a little planning for the holidays and commit to following your plan. She suggests a couple of ideas to consider: • Make the decision not to consume alcohol at every holiday event or gathering. There is no law stating that alcohol is a necessary ingredient for holiday cheer. • Reduce or eliminate the amount of alcohol for social, office and family gatherings you may be hosting. If you do serve alcohol, provide and display a variety of nonalcoholic alternatives in a prominent and attractive fashion. Make it as comfortable as possible for your guest to make good choices. • Identify and designate a safe non-drinking driver before the party begins. Make a commitment to not drink and drive. • If you are going to drink alcohol at an event, be responsible and choose the number of drinks you plan to consume before the party starts. It may help to use “spacers” where you alternate alcoholic drinks with nonalcoholic drinks to minimize your alcohol consumption. Have a planned number and stick to it. • If you have teens or young adults, discuss the heightened risk from alcohol during the holiday season. School holidays increase socialization time for teens and young adults and greater access to alcohol at parties. The risk of alcohol related auto accidents, sexual assaults and accidental injuries involving teens dramatically increases during the holiday season. Make your expectations for safe and legal choices well known. Consider too, that modeling is worth a thousand words. It is hard to get the message of legal and healthy choices across if your own behaviors with alcohol are in excess. • Remember that alcohol is a complement, not the purpose of the event. The main purpose of holiday gatherings is to have safe and healthy fun. Drinking is as much an option as it is choice and responsibility. If you find yourself or loved one using in excess, choose to stop and make responsible arrangements to go home. Ms. Bendle concluded, “With a little planning and discipline, you can eliminate the “too much” from your holiday season. Encourage your friends and loved ones to make safe and healthy choices as well. Your efforts can go a long way in not becoming a holiday statistic and remembering the real reason we celebrate this time of year!” Ms Lakyn Bendle M.S.,LPC, MAC, CAC II, has been a clinical counselor for Circle Park Behavioral Health Services for nearly seven years. She received both her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Francis Marion University. For more information on Circle Park’s services call 843-665-9349 or visit www.circlepark.com.
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December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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PROFESSIONAL AT PLAY
“My favorite piece of wood work that I have created is the 5 foot American flag.”
Glenn pictured with daughter, Brayleigh, and son, Gavin
southern traditions Glenn Matthews was raised in Scranton, SC and is the oldest of two sons of Ronald and Janet Matthews. He is married to Fran Matthews, his wife of 13 years, and has two children, Brayleigh (10 years old) and Gavin (6 years old). While balancing a full-time position as Head Master at Williamsburg Academy in Kingstree, he is also the owner of Southern Traditions, a small town graphic and reclaimed wood business. Pieces include everything from wall monograms and wood toy chests, to state cut-outs and more! Tell us about your journey that led you to where you are today. “I have been in education for 16 years. I am presently Head Master at Williamsburg Academy, the job that, I think, God was preparing me for in all my previous jobs. I started at Florence School District Three as an instructional aide at the Alternative Center for Education. As I grew in experience and degrees in education, I have worked as a teacher, administrative assistant, and an assistant principal. In education, the ‘job’ is never 9 to 5. I am an educator, which means I am always on the job.”
What encouraged you to start Southern Traditions? “Southern Traditions started in 2015 as a hobby, something I enjoy while I am working through my thoughts. When I have a lot on my mind is when I can be my most creative. I like to call it saw dust therapy. Southern Traditions was created to remind people of southern culture. There is no place else on earth like living in the South.”
“As a southern boy, I have always respected and appreciated my southern values and traditions.”
To place your Christmas order: Call Glenn at 843-373-8150 or email him at southerntraditionssc@gmail.com.
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December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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FASHION FOR WORK AND PLAY
holiday party
Perfect get these looks and more at:
112 W Carolina Ave, Hartsville (843) 332-4505
model: Tymon Graham Director of Residence Life at Coker College
142 E Carolina Ave, Hartsville (843) 383-6380
model: SaVannah Britt
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December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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AGRIBUSINESS
Continuing the Family Tradition WITH LAMB’S ON SECOND LOOP ROAD IN FLORENCE story by Ashley Elvington
Jonathan Lamb
A few tips from Jonathan on how to care for your tree:
“
For 24 years, Lamb’s has been the go-to place to buy Christmas trees. Over time as business grew, owner Jonathan Lamb and his team added mums, pumpkins, and springtime flowers during the appropriate seasons. After several meetings with the City of Florence, Lamb’s officially became open for business year round in 2010. While Jonathan’s brother, Jason, has his own produce business at the Farmers’ Market, the Lamb sons aren’t the only ones with a passion for agriculture. “My family has been in this business for a long time. My father, Blakely, was the first person to rent a stall out of the Farmers’ Market.” Jonathan is passing on the tradition to his four children - Noah (8), Chloe (16), Kody (18), and Tiffany (26). “Tiffany is here all the time while Kody helps after school. Chloe helps during the summer, and Noah gets mad because he’s too young.” Earleen, Jonathan’s wife, works at Lamb’s every day during the wintertime as wreath-maker, and year round as bookkeeper. Tiffany also helps with the wreaths, as well as Jonathan’s mother and his stepfather. It’s truly a family business. Jonathan also has the help of family friend Jerry Poston, who has been a part of the Lamb family business for nearly 20 years. At Lamb’s, everything you see is from the East Coast. It’s important to Jonathan and his family to keep all products as local as possible. “This time of year, most of everything is coming out of Florida except for greens, collards, turnips, mustards and cabbage. Either way, it’s all straight out of the field. No matter where it comes from, we get it within a day or two of being picked.” As for their Christmas trees, those arrive from West Jefferson, North Carolina. Lamb’s receives about 2,300 Christmas trees every year. “Many of our customers have purchased trees from us for years, and we are honored to help make their season bright!” Once all of the trees have been sold, Lamb’s closes until spring. During the off months, Jonathan spends time in Florida searching for beautiful flowers to add to the inventory at Lamb’s. “I also spend a lot of time with the family during this time, making up for all of the time I miss during the summer and fall.”
(1) As long as you keep water in it, you won’t have a problem. Within an hour after purchasing it, get it in water. (2) Get your tree fresh cut on the bottom. Every tree we sell, we fresh cut the bottom so the tree will take up water easier.
To get your freshly cut Christmas tree, visit Lamb’s at 419 Second Loop Rd, Florence | (843) 665-6604 24
VIP Magazine | December 2017
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December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
TRENDZ
Located on Sprout Road in Darlington, Trendz is a salon that specializes in hair, nails, skincare, and massage. There is also a gift shop that clients can browse through full of seasonal gifts, jewelry, clothes, gourmet foods, and home décor. Made up of an experienced team and friendly atmosphere, you’re sure to find professional service mixed with the latest styles, trends, and a variety of offerings all in one place! Kathy Parrott began working in a small salon at her parent’s residence and has been a hairstylist for 27 years. She was blessed to build a new salon four years ago that offers all services in one place for clients to enjoy. The new salon offers the latest in hair, nails, skincare, and massage. Her passion carries over to her exceptional service and she has created a place where clients can feel at home. Also on the Trendz team is hairstylist Jackie Lester, who has been with Trendz for more than five years, and esthetician Sandra Smith, who has been with Trendz for over two years. Brandi McLaurin is the massage therapist
SALON AND GIFT SHOP story by Meredith Kelley who has been with the Trendz team for more than two years and works several days a week. Kathy’s mother, Delores Isgett, is the nail technician at Trendz and also handles the gift shop. Delores has worked at Trendz for four years. Kathy says, “Everyone on our team here at Trendz is specialized in the latest styles and services. Our gift shop is a great opportunity for clients to shop and browse before, after, and during their appointments. We provide a wide variety of seasonal gifts, jewelry, clothes, gourmet foods, and home decor for our clients to choose from.” The talented and passionate team at Trendz invites you to swing by and pamper yourself so you can leave feeling restored and renewed this holiday season! The salon is open Tuesday-Friday from 8:30am-6:30pm and on Saturdays by appointment only. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are preferred. Trendz is available for party rental for events and they also travel for weddings and events to provide hair and make-up services.
Contact Trendz by calling (843) 395-1222 or visiting 2061 Sprout Rd., Darlington.
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VIP Magazine | October 2017
DEALS YOU WILL LOVE FROM FACES YOU KNOW Story begins on page 30
HARTSVILLE Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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COVER STORY
We Have Something For Everyone
When out-of-state companies move into small towns, folks tend to feel a little uneasy about their intentions; many big name corporations bring in their own staff members which doesn’t benefit the local work economy at all. This isn’t the case with Westgate Auto Group, however. They’ve taken quite a liking to the quaint town of Hartsville and have major plans to help it grow with the understanding that it all starts with a little hometown pride.
Ehsan Khani purchased Westgate CJDR, based out of Raleigh, North Carolina, seven years ago and at that time it was a subpar dealership that was struggling. Mr. Khani, a more than 25 year veteran in the automobile business, was accepted as a Dealer Principle by the Chrysler corporation, and due to his work ethic, Chrysler officials knew he was the right person to drive the dealership to success. Once Khani purchased the company, things turned around, as Raleigh is now home to the largest Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram dealership in the area. Thanks to Khani’s hard work ethic and drive behind the wheel of success, the company now owns several dealerships throughout North and South Carolina. While there once was a Chrysler Dodge Jeep
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Ram dealership in Hartsville, it had been closed for several years by the time Westgate considered opening in the town. Marketing Representative Ed Scarborough shares, “Our owner found Hartsville to be charming and welcoming, and we really liked the fact that there are a couple of very large businesses there. We realized that if you lived in the Hartsville area, you only had a few dealerships to visit. We saw an opportunity from looking at the community. We really liked the downtown area and Coker College, as well as Duke Energy and Sonoco being in Hartsville, and the beauty of Lake Robinson. Hartsville has some really great infrastructure. The Chamber is wonderful and the demographic is perfect for what we look for when planting a business.” Once they decided to open a dealership in Hartsville, Khani and his team strategically mapped out what they wanted their business theme to be. Ed recalls, “We didn’t want to be the usual hometown dealership, but rather provide customers with more of a homecoming feeling. There are a lot of young people and people staying in the area. Even if they aren’t staying in Hartsville, they come back to visit family that stays there. So, our marketing campaign
is ‘Coming Home.’” Ed got to experience the true meaning of homecoming during November 2016. “Our opening day was Black Friday. I was invited by a local family to stay with them during Thanksgiving… Hartsville people are wonderful!”
welcomed the fact that we were bringing jobs and business to Hartsville.”
While it would have been easy to transfer employees from their other dealerships, Westgate wanted their Hartsville business to mainly consist of locals, the backbone of the town they were growing to love rather quickly. “We held a job fair in Hartsville. While we could have easily found salesmen in Raleigh, because we knew the people and the area, we decided we were really opposed to that… That wouldn’t be good for Hartsville. Westgate Auto isn’t huge, but what we could provide is job opportunities to Hartsville.”
Now that they’ve settled in, Westgate is participating in local sponsorships and staying active in the community through special events. “It’s been very important to us to insert ourselves in the community. We hire locally, we print locally; our whole idea was to use local resources. Down to the people that painted the lines on the parking lot, we try to utilize locals. Hartsville was the farthest dealership that we planted at that time, so it was significant for all of us to be there and to use locals. I have spent a lot of time in small towns. When you talk about a locality like Hartsville, you don’t just walk in and say, ‘Here we are!’ You shake hands, get to know people, and know the market.”
After talking to 70 different candidates during the job fair, the team finally found the perfect staff. It didn’t take long for the guys to become acquainted with the area, thanks to Sales Manager and Hartsville native Danny Stanley. Ed shares, “He was very instrumental in helping us understand Hartsville and introducing us to people in the area.” When Ehsan visited Hartsville for the first time, he stopped by locals’ favorite, Black Creek Bistro. “By the time he left, the owner of the bistro had introduced him to everyone. That’s how it’s been since we got here. Everyone in the community has embraced us fully and
The dealership is certainly a big moment of hometown pride for Ed, whose ancestors are from nearby Bishopville. “Since my family history is so close by, it became a passion for me to do this right.” While the business is still rather new, Westgate feels confident in Hartsville. “Our guys have worked really hard to put a good foot forward in the community. There are always more people for us to meet, more hands to shake… This is really a bunch of Hartsville people. Charming, extremely friendly… Hartsville has delivered its welcome to us and I hope we have done the same for them.”
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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CHRYSLER® PACIFICA Make the most of every moment on the road. With new entertainment options and innovative features, the Chrysler Pacifica is the most technologically advanced minivan in its class.
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JEEP® WRANGLER UNLIMITED RUBICON The Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is the vehicle others are measured against for off-road capability. Factory-engineered to satisfy the desires of off-roaders who want uncompromising performance in a production vehicle, it was named “4x4 of the Decade” by Four Wheeler Magazine.
DODGE® RAM These trucks are built to last and to help keep you safe and secure. Every Ram 1500 is equipped with some of the most advanced safety and security technology available, including dynamic crumple zones, side-impact door beams and an advanced airbag system.
JEEP® COMPASS LIMITED Let premium details and upscale design captivate you. Sophisticated exterior style, versatile capability and innovative high-tech features all come together in the 2018 Jeep® Compass Limited to create an unparalleled driving experience. December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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FLORENCE COMMUNITY
+ Smart investments and smart partnerships build stronger economies in our hometown story by Mindy Taylor There’s no place like home. No matter how far away life takes you, there is something nostalgic about coming home. Whether you call Florence home by birth or by choice, it’s easy to appreciate the value of home to our quality of life.
more reliable than ever. Making smart investments in our energy infrastructure now can help to attract business and industry, bring high paying jobs to the Pee Dee region, and promote smart growth and economic prosperity in Florence and across South Carolina.
Keeping Florence and the surrounding area great begins with ensuring a good quality of life for us all. And that quality of life is built on a strong economy and in communities that thrive. Duke Energy has had the privilege of serving customers here and across South Carolina for more than 100 years. As communities have grown, Duke Energy has grown to meet their everincreasing need for electricity.
Making smart investments here in Florence – here at home – is the mission of our Chamber of Commerce as well. They invest in businesses every day by promoting everything that Florence offers and by being the unified voice of the business community. When you invest in the Chamber you are investing in making downtown revitalization happen. Small shops and restaurants are bringing life back to a downtown like never before. But it’s not just downtown – the Chamber helps businesses of all sizes connect with the resources and training that help them create a strong business climate throughout the area, which in turn, brings even more investment to the place we call home.
As your local power company, we don’t just power homes and businesses. We power communities, and we power lives. Our goal is to meet the high expectations of our customers with reliable electricity every day at a reasonable price. It takes investment to provide the reliability our customers expect – investment in power plants, poles and wires, substations and meters. But all that investment is also building infrastructure that supports businesses and jobs, schools and universities, stores and the products people want, and a foundation to ensure the future remains bright for communities across the state. Over the last century, Duke Energy has invested billions of dollars into local economies across the state. When a new power plant is built or transmission line constructed, it results in jobs and money spent in that community, and an ongoing tax investment that supports local infrastructure and services. Over the next decade, Duke Energy plans to invest more than $3 billion in South Carolina to modernize the electric system and harden it against storms and outages, expand renewable energy generation, give customers more information and control over their energy use, and provide service that is cleaner and
Investing in our local communities is the best way to keep our economy strong and make Florence a wonderful place to live. That’s important to Duke Energy and to the thousands of Duke Energy employees who live, work and play in towns and communities all over the Pee Dee. It’s important to the Greater Florence Chamber, whose mission is clear to “promote and enhance a favorable business climate” and keep a thriving atmosphere for growth and progress. And I know it is important to you, our customer and our neighbor. It’s an investment that Duke Energy and the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce make every day, and an investment that we must all make to build an even better future for Florence.
Mindy Taylor, District Manager, Government & Community Relations with Duke Energy
Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce | 100 W Evans St, Florence | 843.665.0515 | flochamber.com 34
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PAYING IT FORWARD
STUDENTS RAISE $50,200 for ‘FEED the NEED’ An environment designed for a quality education with Christian values while giving back to the community and beyond all describe Emmanuel Christian School located in Hartsville. Emmanuel Christian School is a ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church that believes in educating children to grow in the same areas as the Lord Jesus Christ. The 260-acre campus serves students in grades 2K through 12 and offers many learning opportunities including athletic and extracurricular activities. ECS has partnered with Florence Darlington Technical College to offer a dual enrollment program through which their high school students have already earned over three hundred hours of collective college credit while satisfying their high school requirements. One of the main goals at Emmanuel Christian School is to teach students practical applications of their Christian faith. Recently ECS wrapped up an incredible fundraising effort, Feed the Need. Collectively, the school raised $50,200 to finance the purchasing, packaging, and shipping of materials that constituted 10,080 meals for underprivileged children in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and other needy areas. Shane Ridgeway, Head of School states, “Feed the Need was selected after much prayer and consideration because of the opportunity it afforded our students to be servants to the most needy, both in our area and internationally, while supporting our school as well.” Meals, consisting of rice, soy protein, dehydrated vegetables, and vitamin powder, were portioned, packaged, sealed, and shipped by the students. Meals delivered were met by an affiliated missionary who distributed them to the neediest in the area. “ECS intends to participate in the Feed the Need project again next year as no other fundraiser thus far has allowed our students to be the literal hands and feet of Christ as they meet physical needs in the hopes of opening doors to meet spiritual needs while
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supporting our school at the same time. The fundraiser has allowed them to minister to the physical needs of some of the most underprivileged people on the planet while, at the same time, opening doors to meet the main need of all of humanity, the knowledge of the saving power of the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.” Next year ECS plans on participating in Feed the Need again and will raise community sponsorship earlier to allow time for more participation on the corporate level. “I am most proud of how Emmanuel Christian School students engaged our community and each other in an effort to meet the physical and spiritual needs of others who will never be able to personally thank them. The opportunity I had to see students think beyond themselves in a world that teaches them to look out for number one coupled with the opportunity to help foster an attitude of appreciation and thankfulness, while raising support for our school, was priceless.” Emmanuel Christian School would like to recognize and thank their Community Hero Sponsors, Hogge Precision and Quality Auto Sales and Service, along with Partner Sponsors, TriEst Irrigation, LLC; Gainey Machine Fab; Palmetto Family Medicine of Cheraw; and Carolina Dental Partners, who comprised the main part of the corporate sponsorship. Additionally, ECS would like to extend a warm invitation to anyone in the community interested in joining them as they partner with the Lord and local families to raise the next generation of men and women. Current openings are available for prospective students. Interested families may call the office at (843)332-0164 to schedule a tour and/or to receive information.
“We also would like to wish all of our community the merriest of Christmases as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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PAYING IT FORWARD
HARTSVILLE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS story by Meredith Stanton
While there are many opportunities for community involvement within Hartsville, Hartsville Young Professionals (HYP), an organization through the Hartsville Chamber of Commerce, is unique in that it brings the young professionals of the area together through organized activities. With its highest membership amount yet of 64 members, HYP has been successful in reaching a diverse group of professionals by providing a variety of activities and professional development opportunities. HYP welcomes anyone in the community who is interested in making Hartsville a better place for young professionals to work and live. HYP’s tagline, “Let’s Do Something Together,” reflects a main goal of the organization, which is for young professionals to interact through organized activities and events. Events and activities throughout the year range from business focused networking nights, to recreational activities and community service projects, providing a little something for everyone. Events
are held monthly and are funded by business sponsorships and membership dues, which are only paid once a year. HYP’s premier sponsor for 2017 is Sonoco Products Company. HYP President Alex Forrest states, “It is important to find ways to keep young professionals involved in our community. By planning activities and giving young professionals a social circle for after-work interaction, they will feel more connected to Hartsville and want to stay here. We are setting up young professionals in the area with opportunities, friends, and professional connections and guidance.” HYP not only consists of Hartsville natives, but also those who are new to the area. The organization is a great way to meet and network with others who work for different employers. While many may ask about the age and professional qualifications and limitations to be considered a “young professional,” the organization has no limit. Instead, they go by the statement that, “You can decide
for yourself if you’re “young” or “professional.” We don’t judge!” One of the most important aspects of HYP is giving back to the Hartsville community. In August, HYP hosted a donation drive for the Darlington County Humane Society where $1,100 was raised, plus a multitude of donation items. In October, HYP teamed up with Retrofit Sip-nSeat to host a Halloween party where a portion of the proceeds went to Carolina’s Kids totaling at $500. Lastly for the year, on December 8, HYP and SYP (Sonoco Young Professionals) will host their second annual Mingle and Jingle holiday fundraiser event supporting the Hartsville Boys and Girls Club. The event is open for all within the community to attend. Last year HYP was able to donate $5,000 to the local club and they plan to double the amount this year. HYP and SYP would like to thank their premiere sponsors for the 2nd annual Mingle & Jingle: Black Creek Bistro, Carolina Dental Partners, Mar Mac Construction Products Inc., and Sonoco Products Co.
For more information regarding membership or sponsorship for HYP, visit hartsvilleyp.org. Stay tuned for more information regarding a membership drive event for 2018.
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Testimonials on why members “HYP” “I HYP because it is a great way to become friends with all of the new young faces in Hartsville.” –Murphy “I HYP because moving to a new town is difficult, and meeting new people who can help you learn about and enjoy that new town is key. I’ve really enjoyed the various HYP events I’ve been to, and the people we’ve met along the way.” –Scott “I HYP because I have a passion for our community and want to connect with others to show them the beauty of our small town.” -Patrick “I HYP because it is a great way to meet other people who are experiencing similar things in life as you are in a small town.” –Jordan
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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AROUND TOWN
Greater Florence Chamber’s Annual Membership Luncheon
Duke Energy’s President and Chief Executive Officer Lynn Good was this years speaker. Good is listed in Fortune Magazine as one of the “Most Powerful Women in Business” and Forbes Magazine calls her one of “The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women.” She gave a powerful message about our future energy sources and a strong business message for today’s community leaders. Frank ‘Buzz’ Rogers was presented the 2017 Business Person of the Year award. Buzz is a founding partner of WebsterRogers LLP which formed in 1984 in Florence. 40
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RAines 16th Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest Each property team had 22 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible. (The number 22 is used because it was Mr. Mark Raines’ racing number). For every hot dog eaten, $1 was given to the McLeod Children’s Hospital and then Raines matched that total number at the end. December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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AROUND TOWN
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Oyster Roast Raines Hospitality along with Springbridge Development hosted their Annual Oyster Roast on November 1st at the Courtyard by Marriott in Florence. Fellow professionals gathered to enjoy oysters, chili, an open bar, and live music provided by Prettier Than Matt. photography by Phillip Guyton December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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AROUND TOWN
Special Treats for Special Children Halloween came early for hundreds at ‘Special Treats for Special Children’! Presented by Raldex Hospitality and WPDE. The event was held at Hampton Inn & Suites (Hwy 52 and i95). 44
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Florence-Darlington Technical College Educational Foundation’s Entrepreneurial Forum Gala The Florence-Darlington Technical College Educational Foundation held its 3rd Entrepreneurial Forum Gala on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at 6 p.m. at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology (SiMT). This event celebrated the entrepreneurial spirit of the Pee Dee Region by recognizing seven entrepreneurs from Darlington and Florence counties whose hard work, leadership, and dedication to the community have greatly influenced the local economy. Combined, they represent a very diverse group of companies and professions. This year’s inductees into the Entrepreneurial Forum were nominated by the previous year’s class. The seven new Forum members include: husband and wife, James and Karen Aikens. He’s the Senior Director of Government Relations for ADP and the Co-owner and Operator of Rita’s Italian Ice. Karen is also the Co-owner and Operator of Rita’s; Wanda James, Co-owner of Florence McDonald’s; Danny Johnson, Jr., Vice President of Hartsville’s North Industrial Machine; brothers, Britt and Jim Poston, Co-owners of area Zaxby’s; and Grey Raines, President of Raines Hospitality in Florence. “These individuals have set the benchmark of working towards the prosperity and growth of our region, and we want to celebrate their spirit of entrepreneurship,” said Jill Lewis, Executive Director of FDTC’s Educational Foundation. “We are engaging these leaders with our students to ensure that the Pee Dee continues to prosper.” The evening began with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by a dinner and awards ceremony. Ron Glancy emceed the ceremony and afterwards entertained guests with his Elvis impersonation. The FDTC Educational Foundation would like to thank all of the sponsors and guests who made the Entrepreneurial Forum Gala possible. All proceeds from the gala will benefit scholarship funds for students at Florence-Darlington Technical College. For more information, contact Jill Lewis at 843-661-8003 or jill.lewis@fdtc.edu.
Marion County Ducks Unlimited Conservation Dinner & Banquet On November 9th, locals gathered at Hidden Acres in Marion to visit with friends and help raise funds for conservation. December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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HAPPENINGS
MARION
december 2017 local events FLORENCE Nov. 25-Dec. 22 ......................................................................................... Winter Ice Skating, Civic Center 1 ....................................................................................................................... Quinby Christmas Tree Lighting, Wendy Hill FD, 7p 1-3 ................................................................................................................... SC Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker, FMU PAC Disney on Ice Presents Frozen, Civic Center 1-24 ................................................................................................................ Lights 4 Paws, 3251 Mears Dr. Florence 3 ...................................................................................................................... Flo Symphony Guild Holiday Homes Tour, 2p-5p 8 ...................................................................................................................... Acoustic Appearance, Local Motive Brewing, 7p 8-10 ................................................................................................................ Annie Jr., Florence Little Theatre 9 ...................................................................................................................... Toys for Tots Pub Crawl, Pee Dee Bicycle, 11a-3p 11 ..................................................................................................................... Flo Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops, FMU PAC, 7:30p 15-16 ............................................................................................................... High School Musical Jr., Florence Little Theater 16 .................................................................................................................... Boys & Girls Club Benefit Ride, Black Jack Harley, 10a-5p Florence Christmas Parade, Downtown, 11a Live Nativity Scene, Lamb’s Chapel, 6p-8p 18-20.............................................................................................................. Cheer Christmas Camp, Extreme Cheer & Tumble 29 ................................................................................................................... Bill Stricklind Fundraiser, Palmetto Grocery & Grill
WEEKLY EVENTS Wednesdays ............................................................................................... Wine Down Wednesday | Dolce Vita 4p Thursdays .................................................................................................... Ovis Hill Farmer’s Market | Naturally Outdoors 3p-7p Trivia Night | Southern Hops 7p Live Music | The Dispensary Fridays .......................................................................................................... Live Music, The Dispensary Saturdays ..................................................................................................... City Center Farmer’s Market | Downtown 9a-1p Live Music, The Dispensary 46 VIP Magazine | December 2017
2 ................................................................................................................. HMRA Prelude to Christmas, 9a-1p Marion Christmas Parade, 4:30p 3 ................................................................................................................. Christmas Tree Lighting, Marion Co Courthouse 6p Fireworks, Withlacoochee Park, 7p 9 ................................................................................................................. Pilot Club Bazaar, Marion Museum, 10a, 12p Luncheon Historic Marion Christmas Tour of Homes 3-6pm 14 & 19 ...................................................................................................... Downtown Merchants Extended Shopping, 6p-8p
MULLINS 2 ................................................................................................................. Christmas Parade, Main Street, 10a-11a 3 ................................................................................................................. Christmas Tree Lighting and Tour of Churches, 5p-7p 8 ................................................................................................................. Chamber Luncheon, Macedonia Methodist, 12p-1p
DARLINGTON 7 ................................................................................................................. Shop Small Open House, 5p-8p 9 ................................................................................................................. Christmas Market, Trinity UMC Hall, 10a-4p 16 ............................................................................................................... YMCA Reindeer Run, Darlington Family YMCA, 8a
DILLON CO. Nov 30 ..................................................................................................... Dillon Christmas Parade, 4:30p 1 .................................................................................................................. Latta Christmas Parade, 4:30p 2 ................................................................................................................. Lake View Christmas Parade, 3p
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all at VIP Magazine!
HARTSVILLE Nov. 16-Jan. 19...................................................................................... Simply Christmas Exhibit, Hartsville Mesuem 1 ................................................................................................................. Festival of Trees Preview, Black Creek Arts, 7p-10p 2 ................................................................................................................ Edwin McCain Acoustic Trio, Center Theater, 8p 3 ................................................................................................................ Holiday Open House, Kalmia Gardens, 3p-5p 3 ................................................................................................................ Hartsville Bridal Expo, T.B. Thomas Sports Center, 3p 4 ................................................................................................................ Intro to Knitting & Crocheting, Black Creek Arts, 10a 8 ................................................................................................................ Mingle & Jingle, Black Creek Arts, 6:30p-9p 9 ................................................................................................................ Hartsville Farmers Market, E Carolina Ave 9a-1p Christmas Parade, 5th & Carolina Ave, 10:30a Pictures with Santa, Hartsville Museum, 1:30p-3:30p Wildcats Skills Camp, TB Thoms Sports Center, 12p-3p 15............................................................................................................... The Nutcracker, Center Theatre, 7:30p WEEKLY EVENTS Thursdays.............................................................................................. Centennial Farmers Market, 5th & Carolina 3p-6p Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 & 21 ..................................................................... Christmas on Carolina Ave, Extrended Shopping Hours & Carriage Rides, 6p-8p
LAKE CITY 1 ................................................................................................................. Chamber Christmas Parade “After Dark” Ceramic Christmas Tree Painting,Olio Studio, 2 FREE FAMILY FUN .......................................................................... Crafts & Letters to Santa, ArtFields office, 11a-3p Refreshments with Santa, Inn at the Crossroads, 12p Holiday Crafts, Growing Up Green, 12p-5p Kids Gingerbread Decorating, Baker’s Sweets, 3p-5p Lip Bubble, Merle Norman, 10a-5p 2 ................................................................................................................ Music for the Holidays; Dancing on Main “Street Dance” 11a–12; Kelley’s Fine Arts “Street Dance” 2p-3p Make Your ART, Holiday Style; Bath product, DeAnna’s Bath & Body, 112 East Main Street, 10a-5p; Ornament, Olio Studio, 104 West Main Street, 10a-5p; Monogram ornament, Seven Monogram Boutique, 130 East Main Street, 10a-5p; Reindeer snacks,Personalize It, 119 West Main Street, 10a-5p Polar Express Kids Shopping Train, 104 E Thomas 10a-4p Christmas Tree Lighting, Church St & Main St, 6p 2 & 3......................................................................................................... Gun & Knife Show, The R.O.B., 9a-5p Sat, 10a-4p Sun 9 ................................................................................................................ Fall Series: Terrarium Ornaments, MFBG, 10m-11a 14 .............................................................................................................. Holiday Garlands, MFBG, 10a-2p 16 .............................................................................................................. Holiday Wreaths, MFBG, 10a-2p December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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TIME TO TOAST
Carolinas Hospital System Receives Stroke Center Accreditation Carolinas Hospital System has been awarded the Gold Seal of Approval for stroke care by The Joint Commission. The advanced certification, as a Primary Stroke Center from The Joint Commission, recognizes the hospital’s commitment to the highest standards in the country for stroke care. Stroke is the nation’s fifth leading cause of death. Each year, about 795,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke – one every 40 seconds. Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability in the United States. “Carolinas Hospital System is committed to making our stroke care program the best it can be. This means partnering with physicians for ongoing improvements in quality and clinical practices, and investing in the latest tools, techniques and innovations,” continues Malaer. Carolinas Hospital System’s stroke treatment program began in September 2016 with the goal to provide the best care to every stroke patient. The program includes a multidisciplinary team of physicians from emergency medicine, neurology, neurosurgery and interventional radiology, as well as nursing, rehabilitation services, pharmacy, radiology, and social work. In addition to dedicated stroke care, 24 hours a day, Carolinas Hospital System’s stroke program includes the following services: Tele-stroke partnership with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC); Dedicated stroke unit with specially trained stroke nursing staff; Full continuum of care from inpatient to outpatient rehabilitation services, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF); and Stroke support group for patients and their care partners, family members and friends.
Local Residents Can Get Help with Health Insurance Marketplace If you’re interested in signing-up for health coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace—but you find the information overwhelming or confusing—Carolinas Hospital System is ready to help. The hospital will have Certified Assisters on-site at the hospital to share information, answer questions, and to schedule free appointments for application assistance (OR) help individuals begin the enrollment process. This service is available at the hospital Monday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Open Enrollment runs November 1 – December 15, 2017. This marks the federal government’s fifth annual campaign to extend healthcare coverage to more Americans, specifically to those who otherwise wouldn’t have access to services or who would face a financial crisis due to medical bills. “We have helped hundreds of individuals enroll on the Marketplace since it first launched four years ago,” said Gary Malaer, CEO. “It’s very gratifying to help individuals enroll knowing they will be able to access healthcare when they need it. It’s a relief for so many people.”
Carolina Bank Recongized for Donation The City of Darlington Beautification Board thanks Carolina Bank for its generous donation toward the rejuvenation of the City’s gateways on Wednesday, Nov. 15, at the bank branch on Express Lane. Funds donated helped to remove dying wax myrtles and replaced them with cherry trees, shrubs, and drift roses. The project will continue with plans to install a new welcome sign with brick pillars similar to the one at the Lamar Highway entrance near Pate Elementary. Pictured, from left, are Laura Burns, Sherry Maxey, Susan Bridgers, Mayor Gloria Hines, Jaime Morphis, Marci Byrd, and Gaby Dove.
Preston McDonald named ABCA & NJCAA Preston McDonald has been named the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) and Diamond Sports National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) D1 Eastern Region Coach of the Year. He will be traveling to Indianapolis in January for the coach’s awards banquet. McDonald was also named NJCAA D1 Eastern District Coach of the Year earlier this year. This is his eighth year as the men’s baseball head coach at FDTC. “A coach of the year award is more of an award for the entire program,” McDonald said. “A head coach can’t win an award without having great players and assistant coaches and the team having an amazing season. It just puts in perspective that we had one of the top-10 teams in the nation.” McDonald is a native of Sumter, South Carolina and has served as the head baseball coach for the FDTC Stingers since May 2009. At just 24-years-old, McDonald became one of the youngest NJCAA coaches in the country. Earlier this year, the men Tech Stingers won the Region X Tournament in Burlington, North Carolina as well as the Eastern District Championship that was held at Francis Marion University. The success berthed FDTC an opportunity to compete in the JUCO World Series. The Stingers finished out the 2017 season ranked seventh in the country with 42 wins, the second most in school history. “Having the opportunity to get to Grand Junction and play in the JUCO World Series was an amazing experience for our players and coaches and a huge step forward for our program,” McDonald said.
Circle Park Receives 9th Consecutive CARF Accreditation
Residential Pride of Darlington Awarded to Bill and Jane Stephens
McMillan, Cole, and Hardman The International Commission on Accreditation on Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) has awarded Circle Park Behavioral Health Services a three-year accreditation for its outpatient treatment programs, prevention services and Chrysalis Center residential program.
The yard at 101 N. Spain Street has been selected the Residential Pride of Darlington Award. Bill recently removed two diseased red tips, installed planter beds, and put in new sod to transform the yard. His love for this yard came from his mother-in-law Bernice Griggs who lived at this house until her death in 2005.
“Circle Park is elated to receive its ninth consecutive three year renewal of its CARF accreditation,” shared Randy Cole, CEO of Circle Park Behavioral Health Services. “By recognizing Circle Park, CARF validates that we are an organization focused on reducing the impact of alcohol and other drug use on the citizens of Florence County by providing high quality and cost effective behavioral health services. I am particularly proud of the fact that our last two award notifications included the recognition of one or fewer recommendations which only occurs in three percent of CARF surveys nationwide.” Since being established as Florence County’s authority on alcohol and drug abuse in 1973, Circle Park Behavioral Health Services has viewed addiction as a preventable and treatable disease. The programs and services they provide deals not only with the symptoms of abuse and addiction but their causes. Circle Park employs a staff of 75 and provides a variety of programs and services to nearly 3000 individuals and families throughout the year. Cole added that the award comes during a particularly exciting time for the agency and the community it serves. “With the recent move to our newly renovated state of the art facility in the downtown area we have greatly improved accessibility to our patients and the community as a whole. We are also excited to have received a five year 2.6 million dollar grant to expand and extend the services to pregnant and postpartum women and their children receiving residential treatment at the Chrysalis Center. This grant will be supported by another newly funded grant initiative to provide Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT) and peer support services to not only the Chrysalis Center women but also other patients receiving services at Circle Park. These additional services will add highly effective tools to our cadre of services as we continue to support our agency’s mission.” Joey McMillan, chairman of the Circle Park Behavioral Health Services Board of Directors states “It is a pleasure to be a part of Circle Park and the services it provides to our community. Its reputation for providing quality behavioral health services with employees who are fully engaged in Circle Park’s mission is unparalleled. There is a pride and sense of commitment to excellence that permeates throughout Circle Park and indicates it is continually striving to be its best. As we have witnessed with the aggressive pursuit of additional grant funded services, accepting the status quo is not an acceptable approach. The staff are continuously seeking effective solutions to improving services and helping their patients and the community as a whole.
SC Advanced Technological Education Center of Excellence to celebrate Manufacturing Day The South Carolina Advanced Technological Education (SCATE) Center of Excellence, headquartered at FlorenceDarlington Technical College (FDTC) and funded by the National Science Foundation under grant (DUE #1003733) celebrated Manufacturing Day on Wednesday, October 11 and Thursday, October 12, 2017. National Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. Manufacturing Day occurs on the first Friday in October and this year’s Manufacturing Day was officially Oct 6, 2017, but companies and community organizations can plan their events on the date in October that works best for them. As part of the two day celebration, students from FDTC traveled to Sonoco Products in Hartsville, SC to tour the facility on Wednesday. Then on Thursday morning, the SCATE Center hosted their annual Industry Consortium Partnership Breakfast at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology. Students from FDTC were greeted at Sonoco by Todd Scherich, Director of Engineering and Kristi Raines, Employer Brand & University Relations Strategist who welcomed the students and gave a brief presentation about Sonoco, who they were, and what they do. The students were also shown a short video about the roots of the company which began and is headquartered here in the South Carolina. Students were also invited to ask questions and tour the engineering facility, which included meeting other technicians and viewing Sonoco’s technology equipment. Dave Edwards, Instructor Engineering Technologies, who helped organize the students for the day said, “This tour complements the materials we’re sharing in the classroom” in reference to why this tour was beneficial for his FDTC students.
TAX PREP
Maintaining Financial Freedom story by Elizabeth K. Campbell, EA
Elizabeth “Betsy” K. Campbell owns Campbell Accounting Solutions, LLC. Call (843) 662-9700 or email taxinfo@campbellgroupsc.com for your tax solutions.
For many years, I was the primary caretaker of my Nana, who was in many ways my inspiration. She was in one of the first graduating classes of McLeod’s Nursing School and had a long running career in the nursing field, along with being a fabulous Mother and then Grandmother. She and her constituents helped blaze a trail for women in our area, proving that you could be a Mom and have a career. For that, I am thankful and grateful. So when the time came that it was my turn to take care of her, I did so without hesitation. This was not limited to personal care but to her business affairs as well. I paid her bills, balanced her check book, kept an eye on her credit card statement, read over paperwork and explained it in her terms, kept her within her budget, etc. Obviously, with my occupation, that was not a hard task and one I easily absorbed. But for many retirement age and elderly adults help may not seem to be readily available. I, like many others in my field, see a growing need for Retirement/Elder Care. It holds a special place in my heart because of my Nana but I often see this group being taken advantage of by outsiders as well as family members. I hear and see siblings fighting over who is going to get stuck dealing with the financial and personal issues of their parents or hear that my aging client does not want to burden their family and sometimes, it is simply a distance problem as life has scattered a family. I want to see my retired clients enjoying their lives instead of planning trips around when they need to pay bills. I want my elderly clients to rest easy rather than worrying that they will fall victim to financial fraud. I think they deserve that and more for all they did to shape younger generations. Retirement/Elder Care, from a reputable firm, allows burdens to be removed on everyone’s parts so that time together is stress free fun rather than feeling like a business meeting. Retirement/Elder Care services help maintain independence and financial freedom that is so very important to people as they age. The services provided by most firms include reviewing and paying household bills, maintaining a budget, reconciling bank accounts for accuracy, offering opinions on financial situations, long term tax and estate planning and providing referrals to trusted professionals as the needs arise. All of that can be customized for the best fit for the client and can change as their needs change.
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This particular niche requires not only a professional, but one that has a heart for working with the aging generation. If you are looking for these services for yourself or a loved one, be aware that the person you choose will be working directly with the client with the hope that a bond will form between them. This relationship is extremely important as time and age moves on. The person that will be a client needs to feel comfortable with the choice and have confidence in their provider. That provider will become one of the client’s closest and trusted advisors, and may, to some extent, become an emotional support. My suggestion is to choose the provider that offers both the most compassion and the best experience. Remember, you are trusting this person with financial issues at a time when the client may be losing independence, which is a big emotional stressor. Retirement/Elder Care services offer a way to be worry free after decades of hard work and raising children. Asking for help is not the easy way out. In fact, most people find asking for help to be quite a hard task. Once the decision is made and these burdens are lifted, I see clients enjoying their lives. Honestly, seeing my retirees and aging clients living the life they dreamed makes my heart happy. I am always in awe of the hard work and dedication they put in over the years and rejoice to see them reaping the rewards. Work hard, plan well, and then sit back and be thankful for a life well lived.
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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BALANCING ACT
DONNA MAGUIRE story by Meredith Kelley
Donna Maguire has been able to find a happy balance between her passion and career. Donna fell into the insurance business and has worked at Vaughan Insurance Agency in Darlington since 1998. She has also been able to raise her kids, Barrett, Erin and Amanda, who are now all grown adults, while still finding time to give back to the community. She works 9 to 5 every weekday, takes on additional roles at the Darlington County Humane Society, volunteers countless hours at her church, and her house is always clean as a whistle! Her ability to balance work, family, and her passion is astounding. Donna is involved at her church and enjoys mission work. For five years she was able to go to Mexico to help build houses. One year all of her children were able to go and she feels the experience was a major learning opportunity. The house would take a week to build and a celebration with the family would occur at the end. The trip reminded her family as to how fortunate they really are and provided great lessons to be learned. She instilled in her kids at a young age to be grateful for what they have. Donna’s three children are now grown adults. Barrett was born with a major heart defect. Early on, times were difficult with multiple open-heart surgeries, but Donna did not want him to live a sheltered life. She wanted him to participate in things every other kid had the opportunity to do. He now is working at Chickfil-a. Her daughters moved away to Pittsburgh and experienced city life together. Now, Erin has returned back home and Amanda is in North Carolina and set to be married at the end of December. So, add wedding planner to Donna’s list of extracurricular activities. 52
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In 2012, Donna found puppies in a nearby park and was encouraged to foster them so they could find rescue. Donna described the puppies to be similar to the Bumpus hounds on the movie A Christmas Story. They were mischievous and grew over time. It was an emotional experience as she let them go on the day they left for transport. Since then, Donna’s passion grew for animals and she has now fostered a total of 71 dogs. She is a board member for the Darlington County Humane Society, assists with the payroll, helps with transport loading for rescue, and is on the evaluation team that assesses a dog’s temperament. She enjoys taking in the shy dogs to help expose them to normal life as much as possible. Donna says, “The dogs, the people, the volunteers, and workers are just the best. The group of people at the humane society are so dedicated. It is amazing how the team works together to care for and get the animals out.” Donna’s role at the humane society filled a void when her daughters moved away. Additionally, her place of work, Vaughan Insurance Agency, is very pet friendly with two cats of their own that they all adore. Donna is blessed with supportive co-workers and a boss who share her interest in helping animals, which makes it easier for her to balance her work and passion. Donna’s parents instilled in her the value of hard work. She was always taught to do the best she could at everything. While she says balancing it all can sometimes be challenging, it is not in her nature to sit and do nothing. She feels there is always something more to be done.
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
CONNECTING LOCALS with Locals story by Allison Gray
Pee Dee Tourism (once located in Dillon, South Carolina) has humbly welcomed quite a substantial amount of success since moving to the Pee Dee State Farmers Market this past August. Fran Willis, Director of Pee Dee Tourism, shares, “This new location has already benefited us. During the Fall Flower Show, we saw 169 visitors that actually came in during that weekend. And, we actually sold a good bit of merchandise that weekend. It is a win-win situation being at this location, as we can send people over to the Market and the Market can send people over here.” Pee Dee Tourism’s sole purpose is to promote the seven counties of the Pee Dee Region through a formal program of advertisement to increase the economic impact of tourism in the area. And now that they have a place at the Farmers Market, they can help promote the work of beloved locals. “Most of our consignment items are made locally, meaning made within the Pee Dee. The iron works are made in Latta by Expert Machine Fabrication. We have hand painted items, candles made by Florence local Carolina Wren. A woman in Chester makes ornaments out of cotton and hand paints the faces and makes cotton wreaths. We carry kaisa grass baskets, which are made the same way the sweetgrass baskets are made, but they are much less expensive. Bill Shriner of Santee makes items out of old pallets.” New additions include a beef, pork, and poultry dry rub, made by Dillon native Buddy Rogers; candles made by Fisher Road Oils in Mullins; and Latta’s own Uncle Jim’s Southern Honey. All make great gifts this season and all are made with love by your hometown’s best. They say home is where the heart is, and thankfully, Pee Dee Tourism has found its home here in Florence. “The staff at the Farmers Market has been phenomenal. They completely renovated our office to make it feel like home.”
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The Pee Dee Tourism office is open Monday-Saturday. If you’re a local artisan hoping to have your products available for purchase in the Pee Dee Tourism office, please send an email to Fran at fran.willis@peedeetourism.com or call (844)669-0950. To learn more, please visit www.peedeetourism.com.
LAUNCH
BOW WOW & MEOW Lucia Weatherford Brings Pet Grooming Services to You story by Jordan Pupa Lucia Weatherford grew up in Pamlico, attended Florence Christian School, and grew up with several dogs and cats. She started her journey to pet grooming after she was introduced to the role as a student at Pacific College in San Diego working at a local equine training facility. After graduation, she returned to South Carolina living in Greenville for close to ten years, then to Hartsville where she opened Bubbles and Bows. Eventually, she sold her storefront and entered the corporate grooming world managing grooming salons in Sumter, Columbia, and Florence for Petco and PetSmart. The fast paced salons and ongoing experience of the negative toll it took on pets and pet owners led Lucia to where she is today. “Cat grooming is a passion of mine. I am a real cat person and I love bathing and grooming cats. Fast forward to an average day in 2015 when I was grooming a cat that was so scared and aggressive and I had had enough. I remember telling a co-worker, “There has to be a better way. Cats don’t belong in grooming salons filled with dogs.” In 2011, Lucia received a house call from a grooming client who had three dogs and could not transport them due to health issues. Lucia entered the client’s home and groomed the pets in her kitchen. From that point forward, Lucia dreamed of a mobile grooming business where the environment would be less intimidating for pets and she could bring her services to clients. However, in reality, she saw no way to afford the average grooming van and a vehicle to pull it. With difficulty of banks not understanding her vision in order to obtain a loan, the process was exhausting, however, Lucia continued pursue her dream. “I knew that my growing desire was to be more than just a 56
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groomer and to be a service provider. My desire was not going anywhere.” In January of 2017, Lucia walked into a sales office of Leonard Buildings & Truck Accessories on South Irby Street in Florence on a whim and shared her vision. She knew she could not afford another truck at the time, so she was hoping whatever they were able to build could be pulled with what she had. “I waited patiently as they checked my truck over. I will never forget the day my dreams became reality. They said, “Yes, your truck will pull it, and yes, we can build it!” Lendmark Financial Services in Florence approved and financed the trailer and without a second thought, Lucia ordered the trailer the same day. BowWow&Meow Mobile Grooming became a reality. In September of this year, Lucia hit the road going from home to home providing grooming services for pets in Hartsville, Florence, Darlington, and Bishopville. BowWow&Meow provides professional grooming services in the comfort and security of your own home. There are no stressful car rides and no other pet distractions, which makes for a quiet and relaxing complete spa experience. With 29 years of grooming experience, Lucia is able to offer exceptional, quality work that allows for a more healthy relationship between the groomer and pet. “Things are going well and I am excited to provide a service that is different and helpful to so many people and pets. My vision for the future includes servicing senior living communities and adding homemade baked goods for pets special order for delivery to my business.” For more information, visit bowwow-meow-online.com.
December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Introducing...
Mary Kelley Executive Director, Greater Lake City Chamber of Commerce
What is your work history? “It spans organizations in both the corporate and non-profit worlds - being responsible for multiple counties, a single county, or a city. I have a degree in Public Administration from Samford University (Birmingham, AL) and bring a unique mix of skills to the Greater Lake City Chamber of Commerce.” What are your responsibilities as Executive Director? “The day to day operations of the organization, planning events, growing the membership, finding ways to collaborate with other organizations to make Lake City a great place to work, live, and raise a family.” What do you love most about Lake City? “There are so many fantastic things happening in Lake City! Business opportunities, collaborations between organizations, it is a city growing in so many ways – it’s a lot of fun to be a part of.” What current projects are you working on? “I’m very excited about our partnership with Florence School District 3 to put together a Fellows in Education Program. Over the next 6 months we will have a group of community leaders touring schools, meeting teachers and students, being introduced to the great things happening, as well as the needs for the future.”
photography by Nancy Devon Carsten 58
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December 2017 | VIP Magazine
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IN YOUR STATE
THE MARKET COMMON PRESENTS
A Southern Times Square
It’s time to make your plans to attend The Market Common NEW YEAR’S EVE street party…A SOUTHERN TIMES SQUARE! Starting at 9 p.m., Times Square in New York City will be streaming live on the HTC jumbo screen. The Market Common is complete with its very own, iconic mirror ball drop! And to top off this very special night, an unforgettable fireworks show will light up the sky at midnight. Two stages offering back-to-back performances and a beer garden with all the local favorites are sure to keep the crowd moving. A plethora of food vendors are close by, and if that isn’t enough, several local restaurants will be open, including: CO Sushi, Crepe Creation Café, Gordon Biersch, King Street Grille, Nacho Hippo, P.F. Chang’s, Travinia Italian Kitchen, The Brass Tap, Tupelo Honey Cafe and Ultimate California Pizza. Reservations are suggested to secure a table at your favorite spot. Cold Stone Creamery and Peace, Love & Little Donuts will also be open to satisfy your sweet tooth. In addition, The Market Common retailers will be open until 9 p.m. for anyone in the mood for a little shopping!
when: New Year’s Eve, 7 PM – Midnight where: Retail District of The Market Common A Southern Times Square is an event for all ages! Human statues, mimes, a glass blower, face painters, glitter tattoos and dancing in the streets will entertain throughout the evening! The family friendly event has inflatables and games so bring all the kiddos! All kid’s activities are FREE! Come bring in the New Year with 9,000 of your closest friends. It will surely be a night you’ll never forget!
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For safety reasons, bags, large purses and backpacks are prohibited. Strollers are permitted and please put necessary items in a clear plastic storage bag.