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magazine Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com Office Manager Tiffany Skipper jtskipp35@gmail.com Advertising Executives Julie C. Tyler juliectyler@yahoo.com Creative Design Tuesday Taylor Ashley Rogers
Contributing Photographers Erin Daniel Taylor Rose Reels Fred Salley Contributing Writers Kimberly Brauss Mark W. Buyck, III Ashley Elvington Lisa Gibbons Rebecca Giese Dr. Ravi Parikh Allie Roark Kelsey Rhymer Doug Smith Donna Tracy John Sweeney
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
Vip focuses on healthy hearts, local brides, and Black History Month during February. It was so much fun getting to meet some of the heroes from MUSC that work tirelessly to see that our family and friends get the care they need. Let’s continue praying for them as we pray for protection for those close to us.
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CONTENTS
ISSUE 63
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FEBRUARY 2021 HEALTH + WELLNESS 10 MUSC: Protecting Your Heart 12 HopeHealth: I "Heart" Snacking 14 McLeod: Small Clip = Big Repair 16 Goodlife Fitness: The Inside Scoop BUSINESS 18 John Sweeney: Keeping Time with Chip Munn 20 Willcox, Buyck & Williams, PA: Crafting A Constitution 22 Maxyne's 24 Silver Lake Forge and Farm 26 Yarborough's Auto Parts 28 February 2021 Calendar HOME 30 Doug Smith: The Perfect Steak 32 Spend Valentines At Home 34 African American Faculty and Staff Coalition 36 Rebecca's Corner: Create A Donut Valentine 38 Allie Roark: There's An App For That
24 BRIDAL 42 Nathan and Hailey Ward 43 Taylor and Erin Morehouse 44 Tyler and Alicia Morris 45 Christopher and Jordyn Harley 46 Andrew and Bhakti Coil 47 Ian and Morgan Matthews 48 Clay and Kayla Martin 50 Artist Spotlight: Southern Charm by Ashley
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52 Drink of the Month: Salted Caramel White Russian
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C E L E B R AT I N G B L AC K H I S TO R Y M O N T H
In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments o f B l a c k A m e r i c a n s i n e ve r y a r e a o f e n d e a vo r t h r o u g h o u t o u r h i s t o r y.�
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HOME
When it comes to protecting your heart, it matters where you go. Heart conditions continue to evolve despite new demands on our healthcare system due to COVID-19. Heart and vascular systems are complex. That’s why our Heart & Vascular experts offer a multitude of services in a variety of specialties. During this unprecedented time, we are committed to providing safe access to cardiovascular care to you and your family. Our board-certified doctors have expertise in the areas of heart failure, heart valve and vein problems, arrhythmias, peripheral artery disease and surgical procedures. At MUSC Health, we offer comprehensive heart and vascular care, a wide variety of treatment options and advanced technologies to diagnose and treat a full range of conditions. We will provide personalized, compassionate care, so you can remain active and living life to its fullest. As we recognize National Heart Month, to raise awareness for women and heart disease, it’s important to know that women may experience different warning signs of cardiovascular disease than men. To find out more, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org or muschealth.org.
Accepting new patients MUSC Health Cardiology - Florence 843.674.4787
MUSC Health Cardiovascular Surgery - Florence 843.676.2760
MUSC Health Cardiology - Marion 843.431.2171
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HEALTH + WELLNESS
I
Snacking
story by Donna Tracy, Communications Coordinator, HopeHealth
It’s 4 p.m. and that chocolate bar is calling your name. A little snack can’t hurt, can it? After all, you plan balanced meals and try to take the right choices at lunch every day. You stay active and walk during breaks. Why not indulge a little? However, while many enjoy a heart-healthy diet, snacking at work or home, especially during stressful moments, can derail all their careful planning and contribute to cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease, or heart disease, describes disorders that affect the circulatory system including coronary heart disease, heart failure, and stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Heart health is particularly important in those already diagnosed with these conditions, previous stroke, heart disease, or peripheral artery disease, but some risk factors can be modified by our behaviors and choices,” said Dr. Heather Leisy, director of prevention at HopeHealth.
When it comes to snacking, however, what should you reach for when you need a little something extra between meals? “Snacking doesn’t have to be bad for your heart,” said Anita Longan, a registered dietitian/nutritionist, at the HopeHealth Medical Plaza in Florence. “However, the first question to ask yourself before indulging in any snack is, “Do I really need this?” “Sometimes we reach for a snack simply because we are bored, it’s easily available, or we see something – the cookies sitting on the counter - that triggers our desire for food,” said Longan. “If you are eating well-balanced meals that include protein and fiber, you should be able to go a good four hours without needing a snack.” If you do decide it is time for a snack, then Longan suggests making sure your choice is going to complement your diet and not add unnecessary calories or impact your health negatively. “You want to make sure there are things you are including in your diet, and things you are excluding,” she said. “You certainly want to avoid snacks high in salt, sodium, sugar, processed carbohydrates, and saturated fats.”
TIPS FOR HEART HEALTH INCLUDE: • Quit Smoking - Smoking not only increases your blood pressure but damages your heart and blood vessels. Quitting is hard, but it is possible! Talk with your provider or enroll in support programs designed to help overcome tobacco dependence.
SUPER SNACKS • Natural nut butter on celery with raisins • Home-made, unsalted trail mix
• Get Active - Physical activity of any sort can be beneficial; however, higher intensity activities can relay more heart protection. It is recommended you aim for at least 150 minutes each week of moderate level physical activity, such as brisk walking, slow cycling, or yard work.
• Low-fat cheese, tomato, and mustard rolled-up in a turkey slice
• Eat Healthy - Avoid saturated and trans fats, limit sodium and alcohol, and add high-fiber foods to your diet. Plant-based options rich with oats, beans, soy, almonds, and brightly colored whole fruits and vegetables are great choices.
• Edamame Pods
• Curried pumpkin seeds • Black bean and cheese quesadilla • Greek yogurt and granola • Air-popped pop corn • Kale chips • Chia pudding with almond milk and honey (refrigerate for four hours)
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WHAT TO AVOID • Salt and sodium – these can contribute to high blood pressure • Sugar – is known to increase inflammation in the blood vessels • Saturated fats – contribute to increased cholesterol and clogged arteries
WHAT TO CHOOSE Snacks can be a good way to include nutrients potentially missing from your daily diet, such as a serving of fruit, or other heart-healthy foods that can help prevent high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides levels, etc. For example, unsalted nuts can provide monounsaturated fats which are considered heart-healthy, and walnuts are an excellent source of Omega-3 fats that can help lower triglycerides.
PLAN AHEAD If you know you are going to snack, plan for it. Anytime your meals are going to be four to five hours apart, you will likely reach for a pick-me-up. Plan for that and it can help prevent you from making poor food choices at your next meal. Longan suggests keeping beneficial snacks that can curb your cravings and your nutritional needs on hand: looking for a satisfying crunch? Instead of reaching for a bag of chips, try carrot or celery sticks with a little bit of hummus and hot sauce. Longing for something sweet? Skip the candy bar and bite into seasonal fresh fruit. Want something a little indulgent and have a little bit of time? Splurge with an unsalted, whole-grain cracker topped with a little fat-free cream cheese and smoked salmon or trout.
“It’s so easy to grab a bag of chips, but with a little planning you can make your snacks tasty and healthy too,” said Longan.
360 NORTH IRBY ST FLORENCE 843.667.9414 HOPE-HEALTH.ORG
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HEALTH + WELLNESS
SMALL CLIP =
BIG REPAIR story by Dr. Ravi Parikh, McLeod Interventional Cardiologist
Living with heart disease can affect every aspect of one’s life, physical, mental, and emotional. It can make day-to-day activities more difficult. The physicians and care teams at McLeod constantly seek innovative solutions and alternatives that allow patients to embrace life fully. The McLeod Heart and Vascular Institute leads the way in the region with advanced therapy and treatment for one type of valvular heart disease with the MitraClip, a minimally invasive therapy to treat mitral regurgitation, also known as a leaking heart valve. The heart has four valves, which are like one-way doors that help direct blood flow the right way through the heart. One of those valves, the mitral valve, has two leaflets, or flaps, that open and close with each heartbeat to ensure blood travels in only one direction within the heart. Over time, the flaps on the valve can become worn and no longer seal completely, allowing blood to leak backward. As a result, the heart must work harder to push blood through the body. Mitral regurgitation is a common condition. Approximately one in ten adults age 75 and older in the United States have some amount of mitral regurgitation. The frequency and severity of mitral regurgitation increases with age, although it can affect adults of all ages. Common symptoms patients may experience and should discuss with their physician include:
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Shortness of breath Tiredness Dry, hacking cough Fainting Swollen feet or ankles Inability to exercise Decrease in appetite
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Dr. Brian Blaker and Dr. Ravi Parikh, McLeod Interventional Cardiologists
Patients may also have an extra heart sound, known as a heart murmur, that is made when blood flows in the wrong direction. This sound would be discovered by their physician listening to the heart with a stethoscope. Our treatment goals focus on decreasing the severity of mitral regurgitation, lessening strain on the heart, and improving quality of life for patients experiencing these symptoms. Medications may help the symptoms, but they cannot mend the damaged valve. The current standard to repair a severely leaking worn out mitral valve remains open-heart surgery by either replacing the valve with an artificial valve or repairing the existing mitral valve. However, in patients who are not good candidates for surgery or have mitral regurgitation due to congestive heart failure, a less invasive mitral valve repair with MitraClip may be a safe and effective alternative to open-heart surgery. An Interventional Cardiologist that specializes in structural heart disease performs the MitraClip procedures. At McLeod, we have two such specialists on staff, myself and Dr. Brian Blaker. A heart team approach is required for patient selection. This specialized team consists of an interventional
actual clip size
McLeod Heart Valve Team
cardiologist, a cardiothoracic surgeon and a cardiac anesthesiologist, working together to determine a patient’s eligibility for this procedure. Tests to better image and measure the size of the valve help the team determine if the MitraClip is a good option for treatment. Performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory, this procedure uses X-ray imaging and ultrasound technology to deliver the MitraClip to the correct position in the heart via a catheter inserted through a blood vessel in the leg. Once in place, the clip attaches to the mitral valve leaflets, fastening them together. This helps to restore normal blood flow through the heart. Clinical data from patients who underwent the MitraClip procedure demonstrate an immediate reduction of mitral regurgitation. With the MitraClip, more patients will experience improvements in their symptoms, a decreased chance of being hospitalized, and an improved quality of life. Dr. Ravi Parikh is an Interventional Cardiologist who specializes in structural heart disease with McLeod Cardiology Associates. As part of the McLeod Structural Heart Program, Dr. Parikh is a member of the McLeod Valve Team and is also a TAVR Certified Physician. Physician and self-referrals are welcome by calling 843-667-1891. Ravi Parikh, MD
Interventional Cardiologist
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HEALTH + WELLNESS
Herbert & Nicole Goodman | Owners of GoodLife Fitness
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The Inside Scoop Being married and co-owning a business can certainly have its complications. Powerhouse couple Herbert & Nicole Goodman share some tips on how they successfully maintain a positive work, fitness, and love life. Tell us how you met.
What are each of your responsibilities at GoodLife?
"Herbert and I met at Magnolia Mall in 2001 while I was home visiting from college. We later reconnected through a mutual friend and began dating. We married on May 24th, 2003."
"Herbert is definitely the 'Master Muscle', he is a NASM Certified Trainer and he develops all of our unique exercise programs. He also does a great job with our communication technologies and leading our virtual classes. I am the General Manager and oversee all of our operations, customer care, and different aspects of marketing. We also have great team members that assist us with classes, accounting, and administrative tasks."
Tell us about your careers? "Herbert is a District Sales Manager for Performance Food Service. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker serving Fresenius Kidney Care as Manager of Social Work Services. We have a wonderful staff at GoodLife which affords us the time to maintain our full-time occupations." Tell us about your passion for fitness. "Health and Fitness have always been an important part of our lifestyle. We began exercising together in the early years of our marriage. Our passion for fitness is driven by our faith and desire to see others improve their overall well being. We believe that God has given us a gift that we get to share with others to help them reach their fitness goals. In order to fulfill all that God has for us to do, we must first lead by example." How did GoodLife Fitness get started? "We started GoodLife Fitness in August of 2019 and moved into our Fitness Studio in June 2020. Hebert and I have always worked on projects together in our church and community. We found out early in our relationship that we actually make a really good team! "Herbert and I have extremely busy lives. We are the parents of 3 wonderful children, Kelsey (14), Carter (12), and Savanna (9). Our day to day interaction consists of managing our household, careers, and fitness duties. We have to communicate constantly to make sure all entities are working together smoothly."
What are some challenges you face being spouses and business partners? "Overall, Herbie and I work really well together. One challenge we have is establishing clear boundaries for our business and personal lives. Being married to the co-owner can sometimes mean that our dates turn into business meetings. We want to make sure that we are also investing enough quality time, effort, and energy to maintain a healthy marriage. What do you love most about working with your spouse? "The best part of Herbie and I being able to work together in fitness is him getting to see me in leggings every day. The truth of the matter is, having a business partner that you know has your best interest at heart and who you completely trust is irreplaceable. Building our GoodLife Brand together has strengthened our relationship. We join efforts in pushing past difficulties and cheer each other on the loudest. There is certainly no one else I would rather celebrate our business successes with!" GoodLife Fitness CPR 400 E. South Village Blvd., Florence www.GoodLifeFitnessCPR.com
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BUSINESS: KEEPING TIME, A MONTHLY FEATURE
story by John Sweeney
Keeping Time is an interview series with community leaders from a variety of fields discussing their day-by-day pursuit of professional success, focusing specifically on how they manage their time. You can hear the full interviews on the “Keeping Time Podcast,” available at www.sweeneymediaandconsulting.com. This month's conversation was with Chip Munn on maximizing his time and success.
Most people have enough time in a day for one job, but Chip Munn has found a way to cram multiple pursuits into his waking hours, while still finding time for family and community involvement. Whether it’s financial services, podcasting, or writing books, Munn has learned to push time to the max. The journey to Munn’s current life is a winding one, with many interesting turns along the way. Munn started in his hometown of Pamplico, South Carolina before heading to study at Clemson University, and returning to the Pee Dee in Florence as a sixth grade English and Language Arts teacher at Moore Intermediate School. “After about half of a year, (I) realized that wasn’t what I wanted to spend the rest of my life doing,” Munn said. “I kind of stumbled my way into financial services.” Now, along with his business partner Scott Mitchell, Munn runs Signature Wealth Strategies (SWG), where he is the CEO. For the last 22 years, Munn, Mitchell, and their team have been serving the greater Florence area. Meanwhile, at home, he and his wife Trish are raising four boys in their blended family, ranging in age from eighth grade to college, and making for a rather hectic daily schedule. “It is what you think it is,” laughs Munn, speaking of the chaos that can come with a household of four growing boys.
Maximizing Wealth and Time
Chip Munn Learn how Chip Munn structures his day to maximize time, mindfulness, and success thanks to his own tried and true system that you, too can use! It’s all on the Keeping Time Podcast, available at www.sweeneymediaandconsulting. com, as well as on Apple Podcasts.
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In addition to SWG, Munn hosts two podcasts and has authored two books to boot. The first podcast is Maximum Advisor, where Munn interviews financial advisors on the industry’s best practices. The second – published in March of 2020 – is the Retirement Remix, a spin-off of Munn’s second book by the same name where he interviews everyday people about practical ways of looking at and preparing for retirement. Munn’s first book, Leap Before You Look: An Accidental Entrepreneur's Guide to Building and Scaling a Financial Advisory Business, came out in 2018 and helps others learn from his own financial experience. Both of Munn’s books, access to his podcasts, and more on his wealth management experience can be found on ChipMunn.com; however, Chip has his own carefully devised system and routine to help maximize his own time, and you’ll have to listen to the Keeping Time Podcast to find out how you can make that work for you!
February 2021
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BUSINESS BUSINESS
Crafting A CONSTITUTION The British surrender at Yorktown on October 19, 1781, is generally considered the end of the American Revolutionary War. British General Charles Cornwallis surrendered to General George Washington and his allies, the French. While the war may have been over, there still was not a United States of America. From the conclusion of the war until the adoption and ratification of the United States Constitution on June 21, 1788, the 13 former British colonies essentially acted as 13 individual countries. During this 7-year time period, the states operated independently pursuant to the Articles of Confederation. The states each had their own constitutions. The Articles did not provide for an executive or a federal court system. The only central authority was the Confederation Congress which had no ability to raise taxes or repay various debts taken on by the states during the Revolutionary War. Proponents of a stronger federal system, including Alexander Hamilton, began a movement to call a Constitutional Convention to address the young country’s dysfunction. On May 25, 1787, the Constitutional Convention convened at the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall), in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
story by Mark W. Buyck, III
The delegates from the 13 states were in no way united in their vision for a central government. One of the initial issues facing the Convention was the apportionment of seats in the proposed federal legislature. Under the Articles of Confederation, each state had a single vote in the Congress. At the time of the Constitutional Convention, the combined population of Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Virginia was more than all the other states. The compromise reached was a legislature consisting of an upper body (the Senate) and a lower body (the House of Representatives). This was a familiar system to the delegates as most of the states already had a bicameral legislature modeled after the British House of Commons and House of Lords. The delegates decided that the House of Representatives would be directly elected by the citizens of each state in proportion to the state’s population compared to the country at-large. The Senate, designed as a more deliberative body, would be composed of two members from each state. State legislators would elect each state’s respective Senators as opposed to the direct election for House members. Another vexing issue facing the delegates was slavery. While all 13 of the colonies recognized slavery, by the
248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.662.3258 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.650.6777
Business Law, Litigation, Real Estate, and Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys 20
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Mark W. Buyck, III
1780s the New England states had begun passing legislation to gradually abolish slavery. By the time of the Convention, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island had begun the process of gradual abolition. New York and New Jersey would follow in the early 1800s. The southern state governments and their representatives at the Constitutional Convention were decidedly proslavery and not interested in participating in a federal union that did not recognize chattel slavery. Likewise, the southern representatives did not wish to craft a constitution that favored northern representation outnumbering southern representation.
Proponents of a stronger federal system, including Alexander Hamilton, began a movement to call a Constitutional Convention to address the young country’s dysfunction. The Three-Fifths Rule was eventually agreed on after much acrimonious debate over apportionment. The issue was how to account for the slave population when determining the population of a state. Southern states proposed that slaves be counted as any other citizen. Northern states believed they would be disadvantaged if non-voting slaves were counted as citizens and did not wish for slaves to be counted at all for purposes of apportionment. The Convention ultimately adopted the Three-Fifths Rule. As part of this compromise, the Constitution required federal tax contributions according to population thus increasing the contributions from slave-holding states. The original Constitution did not refer directly to slaves; however, it did not ignore them either. Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution declared “Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned among the several states which may be included within this union, according to their respective numbers, which shall be determined by adding the whole number of free persons, including those bound to service for a term of years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three-fifths of all other persons.” Article 1, Section 2 also provided that there shall be an “actual enumeration, within three years after the first meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent term of ten years.” This enumeration is what we know now as the Census. The three-fifths clause remained in the United States Constitution until the ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment in the years immediately following the Civil War. February 2021
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HOME BUSINESS
Maxyne's story by Rebecca Giese, photos by Erin Daniel
Dreams are being made in Hartsville, South Carolina, especially for Maxyne Miller. Since childhood, Maxyne dreamt of owning and cooking in her very own restaurant. After years of gathering knowledge and experience, from classes at Wilson Tech to on-thejob training in cafes while living in New York, Maxyne decided it was finally time to make her dreams come true. The restaurant Maxyne's opened in September of 2020. She is the sole cook creating each dish with love, fresh ingredients, and elevated culinary skills, bringing a southern twist to New American cuisine.
When asked why she opened in Hartsville, Maxyne said she absolutely loves it here. Compared to her time on Long Island, this small town is a breath of fresh air. She feels closer to God and loves the welcoming environment Hartsville and it's residents have given her and her business. When asked about the challenges of opening a new business, let alone a restaurant, during a pandemic, she stated, "The pandemic has empowered me." Her positive attitude and outlook are not just found in her smile and words but also in her cooking. You can tell with the first bite that she loves to be in the kitchen cooking. No corners are cut; 22
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everything is prepared in fresh small batches; she won't take the easy way out. Open every day but Wednesdays, she is there prepping, planning, and cooking with a small staff of servers and washers. Maxyne wants to have the menu and the restaurant's environment share everything she loves and show how you can have fun with food. Like the Max Griddle breakfast sandwich, fluffy and delightful pancakes stacked with eggs, delicious bacon, and American cheese for the best breakfast "sandwich." They serve lunch and breakfast all day, 9 am to 3 pm, and with such a showstopping menu, it is hard to pick. For lunch, try her take on the Cordon Bleu sandwich – thick-sliced ham, and fried chicken that is to die for, what's not to love. Do not leave without trying her homemade chips and be sure to buy a bag of chips to take home! You won't regret it! Maxyne is excited to announce that they have filed for their liquor license to start serving mimosas with freshly squeezed juices soon. And that they will start serving dinner on Sunday and Monday nights. This will be a more refined affair with table linens and the perfect date night atmosphere. Their dinner menu will change monthly as Maxyne wants to share even more creative recipes and cuisines. Looking ahead to Easter, Mother's Day, and beyond? Maxyne's will be open with holiday brunch specials! And Maxyne's is open for catering in-house or off-premises for any size event.
119 W Carolina Ave • Hartsville • 843. 917-0093 Check out their Facebook page for specials, news & offers!
February 2021
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BUSINESS
Old Fashioned Craftsmanship, Straight from the Farm story by Lisa Gibbons | photos by Erin Daniel
There’s a common theme amongst many of the people and businesses we feature in Vip, the business owners typically have more than one profession. This holds true to William and Hope Jones, owners of Silver Lake Forge and Farm. William is a blacksmith by trade but also has a blueberry farm, beehives, and seven Nubian goats he cares for. Hope is a full-time special education teacher and concocts goat milk soap, lotion, and sugar scrub in her spare time which she sells at the City Center Farmers Market in Florence nearly every Saturday. 24
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Hope’s passion for creating soaps came by accident. She has suffered from psoriasis throughout her life. A friend gave her a bar of goat milk soap one Christmas and it helped her psoriasis so much that she had to have more! “I was really intrigued how one soap bar could make my skin feel so much better when dozens of prescriptions had never worked,” Hope explained. She set out on a mission to make her own soaps by using the goat milk from a fellow teacher who had a goat farm. “Pretty soon I was making goat milk soap in several scents and began selling to my friends and family.” Word spread to friends of friends and extended family members that also suffered from skin issues. “I didn’t actually intend on starting a business, but I did. Eventually, I told my husband that I wanted dairy goats of my own. If we were going to go into the soap making business, I would need a fresh supply of goat milk,” said Hope. That year they bought their first two Nubian dairy goats. Now they own seven goats which keep them well supplied to keep customers in soap and lotion year-round. Along with soaps and lotion, William and Hope also supply customers with lip balm, beard oil, beard balm, honey, blacksmithing, and fresh blueberries when they are in season. Their 14-yearold daughter, Lily Kate, uses the beeswax from the beehives to make lip balm and recently added beard balm and beard oil to her collection. She began contributing to the business two years ago. William is the daily caretaker to the goats and honeybees in addition to running his blacksmith shop. The entire family, including their youngest daughter, pick the blueberries when they are in season. Silver Lake Forge and Farm is certainly a family affair. Hope creates two unscented soaps and 20 scented soaps among their other products. You can learn more about their products at the City Center Farmers Market or by visiting silverlakeforgeandfarm.com. William’s blacksmithing is sold on their Etsy account www.etsy.com/shop/silverlakeforge.
February 2021
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BUSINESS
CHAMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH
l to r: Jason Yarborough, Jerry Yarborough Jr., Lianne Courtney, Jerry Yarborough
Yarborough's Auto Parts story by Leighann Benton Yarborough's Auto Parts, located on East Palmetto Street directly across from McLeod Medical Plaza, has served our community since July of 1972. During this time, like with every business, many challenges have arisen. However, this family-owned business believes its success is represented in the company’s motto: “There is only one boss, the customer. And he can fire everyone in the company, from the chairman on down the chain, simply by spending his money elsewhere.” This 48-year dedication to our community has also allowed them to become the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce’s Member of the Month for February. The company was started by Prentice A. Yarborough and Jerry W. Yarborough, Sr. Today, several of their children help run the family business. Jason Yarborough is responsible for counter sales and in-store operations and has been with the company for 32 years; Lianne Yarborough Courtney runs inventory control and shipping and has worked 37 years with the company; Jerry Yarborough, Jr. is in commercial sales and operations and has worked in the company for 29 years. Together the team provides automotive retail and wholesale services, delivery for commercial customers, machine shop services, hydraulic hoses, and much more.
Yarborough's Auto Parts 810 E Palmetto St, Florence • 843.665.6033
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Many changes have been made in the automotive market during Yarborough's Auto Parts 48 years of business. The different makes of cars and industry changes continue to impact the progression of the parts store. Also, being family-owned can offer many unique challenges that larger chain corporations wouldn’t necessarily have. However, the Yarborough family believes they have managed well over the years due to their attentiveness to each and every customer that walks through the door. Yarborough’s Auto Parts have been a member of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce since the 80s and couldn’t be happier with the support the Chamber has provided over the years. “The literature they disperse electronically and through the mail is very informative and up-to-date,” Jerry, Jr. explains. “Just as the pandemic came and new challenges were thrown our way, the Chamber provided a lot of information to help us get through those first few months.”
February 2021
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FEBRUARY 2021 CALENDAR of EVENTS sunday
monday
tuesday
1
wednesday
2
3
thursday
4
?
Serpent Day
7
Groundhog Day
8
15
Valentine's Day
21
Pizza Day
16
Margarita Day
Banana Bread Day
Giving Hearts Day
Umbrella Day
Fat Tuesday
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Cultural Conversations, FMU PAC, Florence
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17
President’s Day
22
TobyMac Hits Deep Tour, Florence Center
10
Kite Flying Day
Super Bowl 55
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9
Carrot Cake Day
18
Drink Wine Day
Ash Wednesday
24
25
Tortilla Chip Day
28 February is American Heart Month
Celebrate National Wear Red Day on Feb 5th! Tartar Sauce Day
Pancake Day
Send in your events to heather@vipmagsc.com! friday
5
saturday
6
Glow Throw Night, Blade and Bull Axe Throwing, Florence Florence Stampede and Pro Rodeo (5th & 6th), Florence Center
12
Build a Bluebird Box, Lynches River County Park, Coward Southeastern Bluegrass Association Concert, American Legion Hut, Darlington
13 Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday
Taylor Richardson, Green Frog Social House, Lake City
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Chocolate Mint Day
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Galentine’s Day
20
American Heritage Festival (20th & 21st), Lake City
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Florence Chamber of Commerce Winter Legislative Breakfast, Florence Center Bonding Company, Southern Hops, Florence
Kahlua Day
February 2021
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HOME
A PERFECT
STEAK
story by Doug Smith
Steak at our house is reserved for special occasions. When it comes to preparing a fabulous dinner for friends or just the two of us, steak is the prime choice. Steak can get expensive so when we decide to have it every once in a while, we look for the best deal we can find. Preparing the perfect steak comes down to two simple steps – the cut and cooking. First, let’s look at the cut. We love a good ribeye, but there are multiple cuts to choose from that are easy to grill and deliver great taste. Ribeye, New York strip, t-bone, tenderloin, and the list goes on and on. After you have decided on your favorite cut, it’s time to look for the perfect steak. All steaks are not created equal. There are three primary grades of beef that you will find in the store; USDA Select (good), USDA Choice (better), USDA Prime (best). When looking for a good steak, I always recommend USDA Choice. This will deliver a tender juicy steak that has good marbling (fat is flavor) at a modest cost. Look closely at the label. If it’s not identified as Choice, rest assured it’s not. Moving on to the second “C”, cooking. This is more of a step by step process than it is a recipe.
Get more from Doug Smith by following him on Facebook and Instagram at "Doug the Food Guy".
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1 What time do you plan to eat? One hour before you’re planning to enjoy your perfectly grilled steak dinner, take them out of the fridge and lightly season with sea salt and black pepper. Cover and let sit at room temp for 30 minutes.
2 It’s time to heat the grill. I start with high heat for about five minutes per side. You only want to turn the steak once. This helps sear in the flavor. Then reduce the heat (gas) or move the steaks to the side of the grill (charcoal) to finish to the desired doneness. This would be rare, another five minutes would be mediumrare, another five minutes would be medium…you get the picture. Cook it low and cook it slow once each side is seared.
3 When they are ready and cooked just like you like them, there is one more step that is often overlooked but trust me it’s worth the wait. Let the steaks rest for six or seven minutes before plating. Don’t let the juice go to waste. Pour the juice over the top of the steaks like an artist doing his final touch on a masterpiece. Then add a dollop of butter and allow it to melt over your steak. Cooking on a grill outside or on the stovetop in a heavy pan both deliver mouth-watering flavor. Just follow the same steps.
MINUTES The topic for this month’s Leadership Hartsville program was Local Government. After hearing from the Director of Tourism & Communications, City of Hartsville Department Directors, Hartsville Community Center Building Commission, Black Creek Arts Council, and Judge Cody Mitchell, it was very clear the common theme is that everyone involved in local government has a passion for serving the public and is dedicated to improving Hartsville. The day began with our ongoing leadership development session led by Jamie Kelly, Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce Board Chair. After this, Lauren Baker, Director of Tourism & Communications, and Lance Arrants, Maintenance Worker, visited to discuss Main Street Hartsville and what all is involved in maintaining the downtown area. The Streets & Grounds department of the City of Hartsville is responsible for the downtown horticulture, removing debris from the sidewalks and streets, and decorating Hartsville during the holidays. Next, the group was treated to a panel discussion at The Edition with Daniel Moore, City Manager, and each Department Director for the City of Hartsville. We learned about the different responsibilities each department handles daily and were enlightened by the City Manager’s vision for the future of the City of Hartsville. After enjoying pizza and salad provided by Sophia’s Pizzeria, the group walked back over to the Center Theatre for a tour of the building, led by Kim Cranford, Manager of the Hartsville Community Center Building Commission. He informed us that the building was constructed in the 1930s and originally held a motion picture theater before it was modified into a performing arts center in the 1960s. The next stop on our tour was the Black Creek Arts Center, which was the original armory. Allison Pederson, Executive Director of the Black Creek Arts Council, gave us a tour of the building and explained the various art classes that were offered, including pottery. The day ended with a visit from Judge Cody Mitchell, who explained the Municipal Court System to us. Who knew there were so many different words for “bail”? Although everyone left the day feeling impassioned by the speakers and full of excitement for the next phase of our project, I think everyone can agree our favorite part of the day was the puppies. Are we sure we can’t take them home? February 2021
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HOME
Conversation hearts, heart doilies, and mailboxes put together with glue and glitter... there is something nostalgic about Valentine's Day. The month of February floods my mind with memories of simpler days, where the biggest concern was how many heart cookies I could eat until I get sick or which valentine I received was the cutest. This year I challenge us all to tap into our inner child and enjoy this Valentine's Day by spreading love via valentine cards for your friends, family, and coworkers.
Crafty Level Beginner (perfect for kids!)
How To Create Your Own Donut Valentine: Supplies: • Paper - I used watercolor paper, but card stock, scrapbooking paper, or construction paper will work • Pens & Markers - For decorating and writing
2 Cut out your circular donut shape. Then in a different color option, cut out a smaller circular shape for icing. I made this one curvier and added a hole to the middle to emphasize this layer as donut icing.
Instructions:
3 Use your glue of choice and glue them to shapes together.
• Glue - Glue stick, Elmers, or hot glue will work
1 Skip step one if you do not want to do the watercolor step and have opted for colored construction paper or scrapbooking paper. Take a 32
wide brush and paint the whole sheet of paper with light strokes in your selected colors. Uneven coverage is okay, and perfection is overrated. Let the paper dry.
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4 Write a cute donut pun or a sweet message on the back and put a smile on someone's face today!
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LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE
Fostering Better Relationships
for 25 Years
story by Kimberly Brauss
Twenty-six years ago on February 24, 1995, Francis Marion University provost Dr. Joseph E. Heyward and president Dr. Lee A. Vickers signed the charter agreement establishing FMU’s African American Faculty and Staff Coalition. Born out of a need to address issues voiced by a group of faculty and staff, the coalition set forth its purpose to stimulate and enhance cultural awareness, to promote professional development and welfare among faculty, staff and students. “The Coalition began the arduous task of discussing and acting upon diverse issues/concerns affecting the group and university,” founding member Steven C. Sims said. “These actions afforded the body the opportunity to make recommendations to the administration that would in turn promote positive change and fulfill our mission. Our focus and aim in part were to ‘figure out how to make FMU a place of work and study where ALL felt welcomed and a part.' "To this end it was in 1999, after the arrival of Dr. L. Fred Carter, the fourth president of FMU, did the Coalition ‘feel’ it had the full support and backing of the university. Better communication with Dr. Carter and his administration provided the opportunity for us to better determine how to address faculty in-equality; how to better enhance and celebrate our culture, as well as bring awareness; promote professional development and welfare among our ranks; and foster better relationships with our growing African American student body. "Thankfully,” Sims said, “We are all working from the same action plan to bring about the purpose and, yes, even dreams of the founding Coalition members and its staunchest supporters.” 34
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Dr. E. Ike Udogu wrote that three major issues informed his position at the time of the founding of the FMU African American Faculty and Staff Coalition. These were: 1 - Boost the number of African American Faculty and Staff 2 - Inclusion of African American Faculty and Staff in policy decision-making 3 - Start a scholarship fund for African American students African Americans continue to fight for equal education after Jim Crow. While Florence experienced sit-ins and integration in the 1960s and 1970s, citizens in the 1990s and 2000s in South Carolina continued to fight for equal education. Goals for the coalition continue to include “increasing morale, and communication among members; to create an atmosphere of community for FMU African American faculty, staff and students; serve as a liaison between the administrative personnel of FMU and the African American faculty and staff; and to examine the university’s efforts in recruitment and retention of African American faculty and staff because we play a vital role in contributing to the educational growth of minority students.” The educational growth also includes the creation of several recognized AAFSC scholarships, including Dr. Joseph E. Heyward; Ms. Rebecca S. Lunn; Dr. Leroy “Pete” Peterson, Endowed; Dr. Dorothy M. Harris; Mrs. Alfreda Campbell-Wilson; and Mrs. Yvonne G. Davis, Endowed.
“The AAFSC goal moving forward is to continue to increase community knowledge of racial disparities as well as triumphs, through continued community trainings for faculty, staff, and the FMU community,” said Kayla Duncan, Cultural Committee and Banquet Committee chairwoman. “I see the AAFSC as an organization that continues to hold true to the legacy of ‘Together We Can,'” meaning that the only way through our differences is to acknowledge them, celebrate them, and identify the many similarities we have as well. I believe the AAFSC has continued to assist many minority students with the financial burdens college can place on them and their families, through our various scholarships. We continue to help build future leaders by enabling them to reach their aspirations while here at FMU, a feat which was and has been one of the Coalition’s most cherished gifts. My continued hope is to see the AAFSC expand to assist more students, increase our community reach, as well as expand further into a wide spread cultural summit for collegiate staff and community members near and far. “We are an organization designed to promote not only unity, but scholarship for all. We seek to connect with various colleagues, students, and community members to continue to serve our motto of ‘Together We Can.’” PAST DIVERSITY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2010: Dr. Rebecca Lawson 2011: Dr. Louis Venters 2012: Ms. Angela Crosland 2013: Dr. Rhonda M. Brogdon 2014: Ms. Yvonne Davis 2015: Mrs. Crystal L. Graham 2016: Dr. Will Wattles 2017: Mr. Jason H. Owens 2018: Dr. Ruth A. Wittman-Price 2019: Dr. Shayna A. Wrighten 2020: Dr. Erica James
To request membership, visit https://fmarion.libwizard.com/f/membership Membership dues are $15 annually
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LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE
Spend Valentine's at Home story by Rebecca Giese
On a budget, quarantined, or want to beat Valentine's Day dinner crowd? A romantic dinner date at home is the perfect solution! Want to make it special or meaningful? I have nine tips to spice it up and make this Valentine's Day one you both will remember for years to come.
1 Pick a theme. Did he propose at your favorite beachside restaurant? Or do you have memories of a superb steak in Charleston? Base the meal around that restaurant and create a theme around that memory. 2 Select recipes. Many restaurants have shared their recipes (or athome versions of them) in cookbooks and blog posts, so take the time to do a little research. I suggest Pinterest when looking for the perfect recipes to replicate the meal you envisioned. 3 Create a Menu. Once you have the meal theme and recipes, create a menu, just like a restaurant. Either get craft and handwrite it or use a design application like Canva to make a digital version to print out. 4 Decorate. Take out the wedding china, grandma's crystal, and get fancy. You can dive deep into the theme and find a table cloth or
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extra tablescape pieces that remind you of the trip or event you have created the theme from. 5 Plan a time. Get a babysitter if needed, and set aside a couple of hours just for the two of you. You would need a reservation on Valentine's Day at a restaurant, so the same goes for date night at home. Setting up time expectations will create the excitement of having an event to look forward to. 6 Set a dress code. This may seem funny, but dress for the occasion, getting out of sweat pants, and putting on a tie will make the night feel different than an average night at home. 7 Phones away. Maybe not off if you have a babysitter who needs to call you, but no social media scrolling. Keep the phone in the other room and take this time to focus on each other and the love you have for one another.
8 Make dessert together. Nothing better than a warm chocolate chip cookie and vanilla ice cream. You had the fancy event; now it is time for the fun. Mix up some brownies or cookie dough, enjoy the batter and the opportunity to work together. 9 Just relax. At the end of the day, everyone puts too many high expectations on holidays like Valentine's Day. You can make your significant other feel special without a five-course meal or expensive gifts.Â
LIFESTYLE
There’s An App For That It’s the year 2021 and a phrase we commonly throw around is “there’s an app for that.” Technology today gives us immediate access to so many things. This month, I am excited to share a few of my favorite apps that help me keep things simple and organized. story by Allie Roark
Google Keep I am a three on the Enneagram which is ‘the achiever’. Being a keeper of checklists and planners, Google Keep is a best friend. This is a Google extension that allows you to make checklists of any kind. You can easily color-code them, share them with family, and access them through your Google account on any device. I also love how you can check off your items as you complete them. Remember how I said I was an achiever? I thrive when I see tasks marked off my list.
Easy Peasy
Truebill
Walmart +
In my opinion, this app can be too honest. If you are constantly wondering where your money is going, this app has the nerve to show you. There are different options when signing up allowing you to choose between the free or premium version. One of my favorite features is that this app will show you all of your monthly subscriptions in one place. I had completely forgotten about some of the apps and companies that I was subscribed to. This app will cancel those for you and show you additional ways to save money. It categorizes your expenses and keeps track of your month-to-month spending in all of your accounts. Remember sometimes it’s best to face the monster head-on. Nothing is more frightening than my monthly spending at coffee shops – Oops!!
We all thought Walmart pickup was crazy cool. Well, it’s about to get even crazier if you haven’t already heard of Walmart +. This membership gives you so many perks, but one of the coolest is getting your items delivered to your door. I did the trial over Christmas and ordered some last-minute things for my students. My order was delivered to me at school within an hour. This feature is $98/ year or $12.95/month. Being a member gives you member prices on fuel, free delivery, and the mobile scan and go feature that allows you to check out with your phone as you shop in the store. Check out the free trial to see if this is worth your time and money.
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Whether it’s a Valentine’s Day card or a ‘just because’ card, this app allows you to give words of affirmation in just a few seconds. It features a calendar for you to plug in all of your important dates, birthdays, etcetera so that you never miss a special occasion ever again. There are so many options, and you can even make your own with your photos.
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February 20-21, 2021 Revolutionary & WWII • Reenactments • Military Vehicles • Bi-Planes Military Encampments • Live Music • George Patton Waters, Speaker Visiting Graham’s Historic Farm, will help you travel back in time to the days when Marion’s brave men gave their all for one great nation under God. You’ll also see how Francis Marion earned his legendary nickname, “The Swamp Fox”. It’s educational fun for the family that you certainly wouldn’t want to miss! Graham’s Historic Farm is located at 843 State Road S-21-85 in Lake City, SC. To participate in the festival, purchase tickets, or simply to learn more, visit TheAmericanHeritageFestival.com
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THE FIRST BEST DAY OF OUR LIVES
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NATHAN AND HAILEY WARD OCTOBER 17, 2020 "Nathan and I met downtown Florence on March 17, 2017 during the Saint Patrick Day event. Whenever we met, neither of us were looking for a relationship. It’s amazing how God has everything planned out and it’s all in his perfect timing. We were engaged on July 3, 2019 and said I do on October 17,2020." Venue: The Cabin at Old Spur / Wedding Planner: Shannon Windham / Videographer: Bradley Shaw Photography / Photographer: C. Holst Photography / Caterer: Pee Dee Catering / Cake: Cakes by Jeanie / Dressses & Suits: Simpson’s Bridal & Formal Floral: Darlington Florist (Brandon Smith) / Entertainment: Black Tie DJ Services (David Whatley) / Hair: SASS Salon & Boutique (Erin Williams) 42
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T YLER AND ALICIA MORRIS NOV EMBER 14, 2020 “We have always agreed communication is key. It's important to talk about everything, especially the hard stuff.”
Venue: Wildberry Farms / Photographer: Tierney Riggs Photography / Caterer: Schoolhouse BBQ / Cake: Icing Ink / Bride's Dress: David's Bridal / Groom's Suit: Men's Wearhouse / Floral: A&B Florist / Entertainment: R&R Sounds
November2021 2020 February
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THE FIRST BEST DAY OF OUR LIVES
TAYLOR AND ERIN MOREHOUSE JUNE 6, 2020 “I wouldn’t change a single thing about our day. Of course, being that our wedding was originally scheduled for April 18th, 2020, it was a tough decision to make when we pushed it back two months. We had already been engaged for a year and a half. However, we knew it was what would be best. We knew we didn’t want to go ahead and get married, and then have the “big wedding” later. I wanted my dad to walk me down the aisle in my gown; I wanted my husband, Taylor, to see me for the first time as his wife coming down the aisle. I wanted to get ready with my mom and bridesmaids. I wanted everything to be authentic for the first time. Everything about our day was perfect, simply because it was ours.” Venue: The Cabin at Old Spur / Wedding Planner: Erin Hughes, Columbia SC / Videographer: Bradley Shaw Photography / Photographer: Erin Daniel Photography / Caterer: Hidden Treasures / Bride's Dress: Jolin's Bridal / Groom & Groomsmen's Suits: JoS. A. Bank / Floral: Nancy Weinberg & Southern Wedding Decor / Entertainment: DJ Howie / Harpist: Kipper Ackerman / Bride's Ring: Brewer’s Jewelry Repair / Groom's Ring: Manly Bands / Hair: East Boyce Salon (Lauren Gardner) / Wedding Invitations: Silver Paper Girls 44
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CHRISTOPHER AND JORDYN HARLEY OCTOBER 10, 2020 “Chris and I began dating our freshman year of high school, and we’ve been together ever since. I married my high school sweetheart and we’re still going strong. We’ve been together for so long, but each day is always better than the day before.”
Venue: Christ Temple Holiness Church, Darlington / Reception: Staybridge Suites, Florence Wedding Planner: Donna Dunham / Photographer: Teresa Benjamin Photography / Bride's Dress & Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal / Groom's Suit: Mens Warehouse and Suit Expo / Floral: Mesmerized By Jay (Jessica Jones) / Caterer: Tastefully Southern Events (Mia Elliot James) / Entertainment: Tony Kelly (DJtee Ski) / Hair: Ashley Sumpter / Makeup: Asia Goodman / Wedding Invitations: April Gordon
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THE FIRST BEST DAY OF OUR LIVES
ANDREW AND BHAK TI COIL OCTOBER 16 & 17, 2020 "Many things made our day special! Some of my most favorite were that we were able to have the wedding in my parent’s yard. This is a tradition in India and it made my parents very happy. We were also able to hold a “Kanyadaan” ceremony the day of our wedding. “Kanya” means daughter and “daan” means gift. My parents put my hand into Andrew’s hand and gave their responsibility (their daughter) to him and our fates now linked together. This was a very emotional and heart touching moment; I felt very lucky. Lastly, Andrew and I performed a Bollywood dance for our guest!"
Photographer: Erin Daniel Photography / DJ: @ELEV8EV3NTS Cake: Sam's Club / Tent Rental: Complete Rental / Bride's Dress: Monsoon, Te Designer Shop / Hair: The Studio A Salon, Florence (Melissa O’Shea) / Makeup: The Studio A Salon, Florence (Christin Baylor) / Rings: The Jewelry Shop, Pineville NC 46
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IAN AND MORGAN M AT THEWS OCTOBER 24, 2020 "Morgan and Ian were introduced by a mutual friend (Logan Sims) in 2016. They had an instant connection. Although Morgan seldom ever fished, Ian introduced her to fishing on the coast in Georgetown. From that day on, every weekend and vacation was spent on the water fishing but more importantly building their relationship. Spending day after day on the water with no outside distractions certainly lends itself to lots of special one-on-one time. Their love of fishing carried them to Islamorada for their honeymoon to fish for an entire 8 days. You can certainly say “This was a catch of a lifetime”!"
Venue: Kaminski House / Wedding Planner: Lisa Suggs / Videographer: Blue Edge Videography / Photographer: Stephanie Gore Photography / Caterer: Randall Williams / Cake: Pawleys Island Bakery / Bride's Dress: Evelyn’s Bridal / Suits: Butler’s Fine Men’s Clothing / Floral: Carolina /Charm Florist / Entertainment: Dan E. Lockemy / Rings: Galloway and Moseley / Hair: So-Lace Salon (Sydney Broach) February 2021
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THE FIRST BEST DAY OF OUR LIVES
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CL AY AND K AYL A M ARTIN JULY 18, 2020 “Planning a wedding in a the middle of a pandemic was very stressful at times. We had to postpone our wedding two months later than what we had originally planned but we were so thankful to be able to have our dream wedding surrounded by all our friends and family. Despite all the stress and worry of planning a wedding during a pandemic, it was all and more than I hoped it would be. It was the most magical day ever and I couldn’t thank all my wonderful vendors enough for all the great work they did to help make it so special."
Venue: Tanglewood Plantation / Photographer: NDC Photography (Devon Carsten) / Caterer: Catering for All Occasions / Cake: Icing Ink / Bride's Dress: Gown Boutique of Charleston / Floral: A&B Florist / Entertainment: EPIC Charleston DJ / Rings: Main Street Jewelers / Hair: Just Teasin’ (Brittney Nettles Wise)
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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
Southern Charm
BY ASHLEY
story by Kelsey Rhymer photos by Taylor Rose Reels Inspiration can be found in everything that surrounds us – nature, television, architecture, you name it and something inspiring can be found in its presence. When picking the perfect outfit for an overdue date night, that inspiration can easily come in the form of a dangling pop of color that rests vibrantly on our ear lobe. We can thank Ashley Poston, a Francis Marion University student and proud owner of Southern Charm by Ashley, for her part in that guidance. While Ashley is majoring in Biology and Psychology with aspirations of attending medical school, she has found a career in creating polymer clay earrings that are considered a piece of art. Ashley remembers being a little girl and the joys that came along with getting your ears pierced. “It’s basically a rite of passage for an elementary girl. However, I got them pierced and a month later I had a horrible reaction to the cheap earrings.” That led to her ear tearing and no longer being able to wear the statement pieces she loved. But like the determined person she is, this experience began her need to fix the issue. “As I grew older, not being able to wear earrings bothered me. I couldn’t find big, beautiful earrings that were also lightweight. Being a STEM major, your program is really problem-solving driven. If you have a problem, you search for answers until you solve it. So that’s what I did!” 50
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The research began. Ashley needed a material that would allow her to have all the creative liberties in color, shape, and malleability, while also being sturdy, lightweight, and hypoallergenic. This led her to polymer clay, an art medium known for its versatility and pliability. It’s also non-toxic so it checked off all the boxes. With the material chosen, the fun part began. Ashley has a talent for expressing a feeling or emotion with each piece she creates. Calming neutrals that you barely notice you’re wearing due to the lightweight structure help navigate you through a tough work week. Or a sparkling 80s inspired stud will certainly help you see the sunshine on a rainy winter’s day. When asked what inspires her, Ashley replied, “Anything and everything. Sometimes, I’ll be sitting in biology class and a design will just hit me. Sometimes, I’ll pick a color story from vintage clothing that I’ve thrifted. My inspiration can originate anywhere from an album cover to a molecular structure.” One thing we can promise, a single glance at her creations will leave you unable to pick just one. To see more of Ashley’s work and to purchase a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s gift, visit www.SouthernCharmByAshley.com. You can also see her work on Instagram @southerncharmbyashley.
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DRINK OF THE MONTH
In honor of National Kahlúa Day on February 27th, we are recognizing this tasty treat - a Salted Caramel White Russian. In addition to many delicious drinks, Kahlúa also acts as an additive to an extensive list of rich and creamy desserts. If you aren’t in the mood for a White Russian, try adding Kahlúa to your ice cream, cheesecake or drizzled on a slice of pound cake. Kahlúa Facts Pedro Domecq began producing Kahlúa in 1936. Kahlúa is made from coffee and rum, so it does contain caffeine.
Ingredients
Salted Caramel White Russian
• Salted caramel sauce • 2 oz Kahlúa • 1 oz spiced liqueur (ex. Malabar) • 3 oz half and half • 1 sprig of rosemary
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Directions
• Drizzle the caramel sauce into and on the side of your glass, and fill your glass with ice. • Shake the Kahlúa and spiced liqueur together and pour into the glass. • Pour the half and half on top and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
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