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November 2019

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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 Mike Baker Erin Daniel Contributing Writers Kimberly Brauss Mark W. Buyck, III Theresa M. Curtis Rebecca Giese Brock McCallister Dani Milton Lauren Moore Katie Parker Allie Roark Doug Smith Hannah Taylor Donna Tracy

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COVER CONCEPT

One of the most rewarding perks for Vip & Savvy Mag staff is learning about and bringing awareness to local nonprofit organizations and the individuals that help them operate. This month we had the privilege to meet and work with 23 different individuals or organizations that focus on the betterment of the Pee Dee and those that live here. However, 23 is just a drop in the hat. There are so many individuals in our community that make it their priority to assist those in need. If you know of an individual or organization we need to help spread awareness for, please email heather@vipmagsc.com.

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 64

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MARCH 2021 BUSINESS 10 Social Workers Are Essential 12 Conserving Local History: Hartsville Walk of Fame 14 Willcox, Buyck & Williams, PA: Creating The President 16 Scarlet Boom: Seth Kines 18 Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce: PRISM HEALTH + WELLNESS 20 HopeHealth: Vitamin D and Immune Health 22 McLeod Health: Continued Commitment 24 Flo-Town Fitness: Why Your "Diet" Sucks NON-PROFIT FEATURES 26 The Madison Floyd Foundation 28 Radio Free 30 NewSpring Church Gives Back 32 March 2020 Calendar 34 The Manna House 36 Pee Dee Land Trust 38 Florence Area Literacy Council 40 Beyond Empowerment 42 Resurrection Restoration Center For The Homeless

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44 Eastern Carolina Community Foundation 46 Helping Florence Flourish LIFESTYLE 50 Cultural Conversations: Together We Can 52 Allie Roark: The Cure For Stay At Home Boredom HOME 54 Rebecca's Corner: Green Eggs and Ham Platter 56 Doug Smith: Simple Pleasures, Dirt Cake 58 Bubble by Bridget 60 Drink of the Month: Irish Mule

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BUSINESS

SOCIAL WORKERS

Are ESSENTIAL story by Lauren Moore

There are many jobs where being a “people’s person” is a top priority. For a social worker, not only do you have to enjoy interacting with others but you have to truly care about the improvement of their situation. Social workers are advocates, advisors, counselors, and facilitators in schools, clinics, businesses, and government offices. March is National Social Worker Month where we honor the important work they do to help families and individuals confront, cope with, and overcome life’s challenges.

Sylvia J. Rogers retired after 34 years of social work. Within two years of retirement, something was missing. “Social work satisfies my passion to help others,” Sylvia explains. Although Sylvia is immersed in several community service projects that take up a lot of her time and help fulfill that passion, her love for social work remained a staple of her identity. Her need for helping others was so powerful that she went back to social work in 2019.

Sylvia was born and raised in Marion, South Carolina. She graduated from Britton’s Neck High School and gained a bachelor’s degree in social work from Benedict College in 1980. After marrying her high school sweetheart and having three children, Sylvia went back to school to get her master’s degree in social work.

During her career, Sylvia has worked in several areas in social work – human services specialist, eligibility case manager for food stamps (SNAP benefits and family independence), family preservations case manager, foster care case manager, and human service supervisor. Today Sylvia is a public health social worker within 10

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Sylvia J. Rogers, BSW, LMSW

"For a social worker, not only do you have to enjoy interacting with others but you have to truly care about the improvement of their situation." the Pee Dee. When asked what the most rewarding part of her job is, Sylvia answered, “Providing needed assistance and resources to the individuals and families I serve.”

Through her work, Sylvia easily, and possibly accidentally, becomes a role model. Not only for the children she interacts with but also the adults.

Her sincerity is displayed through the actions she takes to help others improve their journey. Having a person that you don't know care about the situation you are in is awe-inspiring. When life creates roadblocks and uncertainty, it’s individuals like Sylvia that are there to work you through those obstacles. “Over the years I’ve learned that you must have passion, be patient and listen carefully,” says Sylvia. “I genuinely care and want to make a difference in the lives of others.

It doesn’t matter what socioeconomic, cultural, sexual, or racial background they come from.”

Social workers take on many roles which make them a high demand in the job industry. Sylvia encourages those led to help others to consider becoming a social worker. Her advice is to “Always be sure you are taking care of yourself while you take care of others.”

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT BEING A SOCIAL WORKER

“I've heard people say social work is a calling and not something you initially aspire to do.

Children typically select more popular known career occupations such as teachers, nurses, doctors, lawyers, etc. of what they'd like to be Brenda Hyleman, LISW when they grow up. Yet AP & CP, NCG, CMC social workers, through their pursuit of helping people, find themselves working in a variety of settings that allows them to interact, collaborate, and problem solve with all of those disciplines. Social workers are professionally trained and licensed to have keen assessment skills and first hand knowledge of the impact that social determinants can have on health and overall functioning. They can identify concerns that need to be addressed (root causes) in the helping process, and also advocate and educate for social change.”

Latia Richardson, LMSW

“Being a social worker is important to me because we give a voice to the voiceless. We help advocate for individuals and populations that have lost their voices while teaching them to advocate for themselves. Everyone should know their voice matters."

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All photographs used were generously shared and property of The Hartsville Museum, Hartsville, South Carolina

LIFESTYLE BUSINESS

Conserving Local History story by Rebecca Giese

HARTSVILLE WALK OF FAME A Commemorative Red Brick Fundraiser for the Center Theater This month, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Kim Cranford, the current manager of Center Theater, and DeeDee Chisholm, 2021 Leadership Hartsville class member, to talk about the Hartsville Walk of Fame fundraiser, Center Theater, and the Leadership Hartsville program.

Leadership Hartsville is an annual innovative 9-month program presented by the Hartsville Chamber that incorporates the community's experts in various fields to grow leadership skills, increase knowledge, and enhance Hartsville's vision within the class. The 2021 class, made up of 17 individuals in different occupations, fields, and backgrounds, have the opportunity to explore various areas with local experts, Hartsville's history, government, nonprofit organizations, education, large and small businesses, emergency response, and quality of life. DeeDee mentioned she had been in Hartsville for 40 years and has been shocked by the history and local knowledge she has gained thus far. An essential part of the program each year is the fundraiser. Local nonprofits present to the Leadership Hartsville class their organization and the class votes. The 2021 class picked Center Theater.

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Center Theater is an icon of downtown Hartsville, sitting on 5th Avenue between College Avenue and Home Avenue. The building was built in 1936 using funds from the Federal Works Progress Administration, a component of FDR's New Deal agency by the township of Hartsville.

Kim Cranford called it a "unique animal" Center Theater started as a city block of buildings, including a movie theater, farmers market, and community center, even held the National Guard office and a radio station at one point. Over time the Center Theater has seen many lives and occupations. In 1969, Center Theater went under a vast remodel from a movie theater to a performing arts center. Since then, no large remodeling projects have been completed. Still, the old building has been kept busy filling its 900 seat theater with 80 to 90 events a year, including the Miss Hartsville pageant, annual

l to r: A.L.M. Wiggins, C.R. Segars, and J.F. Wilmeth

Sonoco meetings, and even local high school performances.

With these events, Center Theater plays a pivotal role in the economics of Hartsville. People from all over come to Hartsville for the events, dining locally, shopping the boutiques, and staying in the hotels downtown. Kim Cranford was keen on the importance the theater has on Hartsville's Downtown, and after 85 years, the building is starting to show some wear and tear. He stated that the theater's current significant needs are the front facade and a new roof. And he hopes to renovate the bathrooms and other parts of the theater to be ADA compliant in the near future.

And this is where the Hartsville Walk of Fame comes into play! DeeDee and the rest of the Leadership Hartsville 2021 class have a commemorative red brick fundraiser to raise money to restore the facade, and the new roof Center Theater needs to continue impacting the community for another 85 years. The red bricks will line the front walkway area of the sidewalk in front of the Center Theater. There are two sizes available. The 8x8 gives you six lines and 14 characters per line for $500. And the 4x8 classic red brick gives you up to three lines with 14 characters per line for $150.

If you, your family, or organization are interested in purchasing a red brick to help restore this Hartsville icon, please email hartsvillewalkoffame@gmail.com.

Follow Center Theater and Leadership Hartsville for any news, announcements, and additional information.

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BUSINESS BUSINESS

Creating the

PRESIDENT

During the period of time from the end of the Revolutionary War through the adoption of the United States Constitution, the Congress of the Articles of Confederation constituted the entire federal government. There was no executive branch and therefore no chief executive officer. The states had waged a costly war against Britain and the King of England. They were in no hurry to surrender their newfound freedom to a home-grown despot.

The powers granted to the chief executive and the procedure for his selection were the most hotly debated issues during the Constitutional Convention in 1787.

James Wilson and Gouverneur Morris, both Pennsylvanians, were the chief proponents of a single chief executive, popularly elected, serving for a relatively short term with the opportunity for re-election. Other delegates such as Benjamin Franklin and a South Carolinian, Charles Pinckney, favored a council arrangement whereby the chief executive of the various executive departments would wield executive power. Most of the council proponents envisioned the Congress electing the various executive council members. Ultimately the Convention must have viewed the council as too unwieldy and subject to legislative interference.

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story by Mark W. Buyck, III

Wilson’s proposal for a single executive was ultimately approved.

While the Convention decided rather early on a single president, its delegates spent a long hot summer debating and deciding what powers the president would have and how should he be elected.

Wilson and Morris eventually persuaded James Madison to join them in advocating the separation of powers doctrine. The separation of powers doctrine was ultimately adopted by the Founding Fathers and continues as a bedrock of our governing system. The doctrine stands for the proposition that the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government must be kept separate and defended from interference from either of the other two branches.

Much of the debate during the summer of 1787 was over whether the president would be appointed by the Congress or elected by popular vote (popular vote at the time would have been understood as white male landowners). Ultimately a compromise was reached, the Electoral College. Under the Electoral College, each state has one vote per House member and one vote per U.S. Senator. This represented a compromise between the larger more

popular states and the smaller states. For example, Delaware and Rhode Island would each have three votes in the Electoral College whereas Virginia may have 15. This arrangement actually favored smaller states on a per capita basis as each state would have two Senators no matter how small.

The states were granted the authority to determine how the electors would be chosen.

There is no requirement in the Constitution that all of the electors from a state must cast their ballot for the same candidate. The Constitution requires a candidate to receive a majority of the Electoral College votes. If no candidate receives a majority of the Electoral College votes, the Constitution provides that the United States Congress would convene to select the president. In that scenario, each state would have one vote regardless of its size or population.

The Electoral College has served its purpose well for 59 presidential elections. There have only been 3 occasions when no one received a majority of the Electoral College votes, the last one being the election of 1876. When the Electoral College was created, communication between and within states was limited and slow. Nationwide campaigning was not practical. It was not until 1824 that an appreciable number of states conducted a popular vote for president. In South Carolina, probably the most legislature-dominant state in the country, popular vote was not held in a presidential election until the 1868 election during the Reconstruction Era.

Business Law, Litigation, Real Estate, and Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys 248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.662.3258 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.650.6777 March 2021

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BUSINESS

story by Hannah Taylor During 2020 when many were losing their jobs or even losing their businesses to the lack of sales, it was difficult to think positively and pursue new dreams. All of the “what ifs” could easily interfere with the “I can do this!” Seth Kines was a part of the thousands that were impacted by the pandemic and found himself in search of his next best thing. However, he didn’t let the naysayers or negativities stand in the way of his pursuit to grow a career.

“It was not on my bucket list to start a hospitality sales company in the middle of a global pandemic, but that’s exactly what we have done."

Many may recognize Seth for his presence in the Lake City community. Seth was the Founder and Executive Director of Visit Lake City, SC until Covid-19 forced the Lake City Creative Alliance to reduce their workforce. During Seth’s tenure in Lake City, he helped open The Inn at the Crossroads in 2014 and worked to lead Lake City to the prestigious “USA Today Best Small Town in America, Cultural Scene” recognition in 2018. He had a passion to increase tourism for cities and did just that for several years in Lake City. By early-2020, when travel was nearly obsolete, Seth found himself venturing towards a new alternative to promoting travel. He established Scarlet Boom, a remote-based hotel sales and marketing company that is revolutionizing the industry. During the middle of a pandemic that has devastated the tourism industry, Scarlet Boom has rapidly grown 16

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Seth Kines, owner

and is partnered with recognizable brands such as Hilton, Wyndham, Choice Hotels, and several boutique properties and resorts. Within the first year, their client list has grown to over 30 hotels with locations all over the U.S. Customers have come to trust the integrity of Seth and his team as they work diligently to provide top quality service while increasing their client’s footprint. Seth’s staff includes four sales managers (and counting) that are focused on assisting properties with every aspect of their sales efforts. Their goal for each client is to always drive revenue and increase occupancy. They offer a full-service marketing firm where they specialize in branding, social media, creative content, advertising, and web development. “I am proud that while other companies have been forced to lay off their workforce, Scarlet Boom is hiring and creating jobs in the hospitality industry."

Seth describes Scarlet Boom as “the future of hotel sales.” He continues, “As terrible as the Covid-19 Pandemic has been, we saw an opportunity and are trying to make the most of it. Our goal is to provide the same services as an on-site hotel sales manager, but we are providing our clients with more experienced sales professionals, for a fraction of the cost.

The next time you find yourself searching for a night away in a hotel with a great view, remember someone is navigating you towards that decision. Seth may be the one pointing you in the direction for the best night's rest you’ve ever had.

For more information on Scarlet Boom, visit them online at www.scarletboom.com.

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BUSINESS

PRomoting the Inclusion of Small and Minority Businesses story by Dani Milton As Arthur Ashe, American tennis player and first African American player to win a major men’s singles championship, once said, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” That’s exactly what Les Echols, Director of Community and Minority Enterprise for the Florence Chamber, did when he joined the Chamber in 2013. His first objective was to learn how to better assist various small and minority member businesses in the area. From there, PRISM was introduced to the Chamber’s portfolio.

Les began by listening and touring several local minority-owned businesses. “I developed an outline for an initiative and tried to come up with a name that would encompass all color…like a spectrum,” he explained. The word PRISM not only fits that mold but could also be used as an acronym to explain the purpose of the program's existence - PRomoting the Inclusion of Small and Minority (PRISM) businesses. The goal for PRISM is to advocate for legislation, help minority businesses certify, connect small businesses with big 18

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businesses, and create marketing opportunities for small businesses. Since its inception in 2014 when the Chamber implemented the initiative into their business plan, PRISM has covered an umbrella of nearly 20 programs, initiatives, and events sponsored by several major corporations.

One of the many programs PRISM hosts is procurement sessions. The purpose of these sessions, which are held several times throughout the year, is to educate small and minority businesses on how to do business with major corporations like BMW, ABB, Honda, Florence One Schools, Florence County, and the City of Florence. Additionally, “Prior to Covid-19, every year, PRISM co-sponsored a bus to the annual BMW Diversity Conference in Greenville,” Les said. “Attendees were able to meet thousands of vendors and business owners, as well as hear from celebrity speakers like Stedman Graham, long-term partner of Oprah Winfrey, and Daymond John of FUBU and TV’s Shark Tank.”

In 2017, PRISM won the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Diversity Award. At the South Carolina Chamber’s annual Summit meeting, Les joined the stage to accept The Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award, recognized for making significant contributions for the advancement of South Carolina through diversity initiatives and inclusion efforts. Les explained to attendees, “Diversity and inclusion is not just about programs or initiatives. It’s about helping make an effective way of life for community and businesses to thrive.”

The pandemic may have halted some of PRISM’s events but it hasn’t slowed down Les’s intent to help minority-owned businesses. He’s still formulating plans to better promote and connect small and minority businesses with our community. Most recently, FlowTown Yoga, owned by Veronica Robertson, was awarded the Business of the Quarter.

This award is a unique partnership between the City of Florence and the Chamber where they recognize a local business that contributes to community development, growth, and civic engagement.

Emerging Leaders Summer Institute was also started under the PRISM umbrella. "This program is a five-session summer class designed to identify, develop, and empower local 'Emerging Leaders.'

Specifically, this program can be helpful for minority professionals, small business owners, and innovative professionals poised to move on to the next level of community and business leadership," Les describes.

“PRISM has become a liaison to connect the Chamber to the business world. The community sees it has helped to create an influx of small and minority businesses into the Chamber,” says Les. By becoming a member of the Chamber, these businesses gain the resources the Chamber provides.

Les Echols Director of Community & Minority Enterprise

For more on PRISM or how your small or minority-owned business can become a member of the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, visit www.flochamber.com.

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

Vitamin D and Immune Health story by Katie Parker, HopeHealth

March is National Nutrition Month and was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to spread nutrition facts and build awareness of the importance of nutrition, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

One common vitamin deficiency is vitamin D which plays an essential role in immune health. Research shows that about 42 percent of Americans, and 50 percent of the global population, are deficient in vitamin D. Deficiency rates tend to be higher in individuals with darker skin and in the elderly, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. In the United States, deficiency in vitamin D is largely attributed due to: • spending more time indoors • wearing sunscreen outside • eating a Western diet that tends to be low in foods containing vitamin D. In fact, more than 90 percent of adults do not consume enough of the vitamin according to the Dietary Guidelines for American 2020-2025 (DGA). With so many people deficient, many food products are now fortified with vitamin D such as orange juice, cow’s milk, cereal, and oatmeal. Foods that naturally contain vitamin D include tuna, egg yolks, fatty fish (salmon, sardines, herring), and mushrooms.

Why is it important?

Vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium, which is crucial for bone health and why many calcium supplements also contain the vitamin. The DGA notes it is particularly important for adults ages 19 - 30 and women in the post-menopausal period. Studies have also shown it helps decrease inflammatory responses and increase anti-inflammatory responses in the body – including those contributing to acute respiratory distress syndrome and lung injury.

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How much should I have?

The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin D is 600 IU (15 mcg) per day for everyone ages 2 - 70. In individuals older than 70, the recommendation increases to 800 IU (20 mcg) per day. For those who need to supplement their vitamin D consumption, registered dietitians recommend choosing a brand that is USP certified, like Nature Made, to ensure that you are ingesting a quality supplement.

Covid-19 connection?

Some research reports vitamin D supplements may help decrease the severity of COVID-19 symptoms based on a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and severe COVID-19 cases in addition to the anti-inflammatory role of the vitamin. For COVID-19, researchers note that those with low levels of vitamin D, especially age 70 and older or vulnerable to respiratory illness, may benefit from vitamin D supplement. However, before starting or increasing any supplement, check with your health care provider about your needs.

To learn more about vitamin D, visit the Office of Dietary Supplements at ods.od.nih.gov.

Katie Parker is a dietetic intern at Winthrop University, currently completing her outpatient counseling rotation at HopeHealth Diabetes & Nutrition Institute.

360 NORTH IRBY ST, FLORENCE 843.667.9414 | HOPE-HEALTH.ORG

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

CONTINUED COMMITMENT McLeod to Open New Life-saving Emergency & Trauma Department in Florence Meeting the needs of emergency and trauma patients who seek life-saving treatment at McLeod is the goal behind construction of the new 44,316 squarefoot McLeod Emergency Department at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence. Serving a vital role in the community, the McLeod Emergency Department is part of the hospital’s continued commitment to be the choice for medical excellence and is crucial to the effective management of acute illnesses and injuries.

Located on the McLeod Regional Medical Center campus between the McLeod Pavilion Tower and McLeod Medical Park East, the McLeod Emergency Department, the home of McLeod Emergency Services, will supply essential much-needed facilities and equipment to care for both adult and pediatric patients.

The expanded McLeod Emergency Department has been designed to serve more than 109,500 patients a year and includes 81 patient rooms, triage rooms for immediate patient evaluation, designated trauma rooms, a covered drop-off area for patients at the front entrance, X-ray rooms, a new helipad adjacent to the ambulance entrance and five ambulance bays at a dedicated entrance. The spacious waiting area also offers a warm and intimate environment for visitors.

Additionally, there is a private consultation room for providers to meet with family members.

While the McLeod Emergency Department is the physical space where medical teams do their work, it is the people who make that work life-saving. The hearts and souls of the McLeod Emergency Department medical teams are in everything they do. Each and every 22

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McLeod Emergency Department team members

patient who enters the doors at McLeod is a valuable life, and many of these patients have life-threatening conditions. With its well-trained and experienced team of emergency physicians and nurses, trauma surgeons and clinicians McLeod is able to meet emergent needs both quickly and efficiently.

The McLeod Emergency Department will occupy the first floor of the newly constructed four-story building.

With the future opening of the McLeod Emergency Department also comes an advanced Endoscopy and Recovery Suite, a new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and expansion of McLeod Women’s Services with new Postpartum suites.

The second floor Endoscopy and Recovery Suite will provide support for McLeod Surgical Services with 25 pre and post endoscopy rooms, 20 transitional rooms and 15 procedure rooms. The third floor also adds much needed space for the expansion of the NICU, with 48 private rooms providing rooming-in opportunities for families as well as adjoining rooms for families with multiple babies allowing them to move freely between each room.

The fourth floor expansion enhances McLeod Women’s Services with the addition of approximately 31,000 square feet to create 40 new postpartum rooms.

The postpartum rooms, designed for the comfort and

Dr. Tom Lewis, McLeod Emergency Department Medical Director and team members with a patient

convenience of the patient, include bathrooms with enhanced safety accessibility features such as walk-in showers. The fourth floor will also include an expanded nurses’ station with improved functionality for nursing staff.

With the support of the community, McLeod has cared for families of this region for 115 years.

As the hospital system looks to the future and the opening of the new McLeod Emergency Department, Endoscopy Suite, NICU, and McLeod Women’s Services expansion, the teams remain committed to providing extraordinary medical care for years to come.

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

Why Your “Diet” Sucks... story by Brock McCallister, Owner Flo-Town Fitness, Certified Firefighter, Crossfit-L2

You're not spending any time on it!

Sounds simple, but it is the truth. Anything worth doing is going to take time and energy, or else is it really worth doing?

Think about your week and ask yourself a few questions: • When do you go shopping?

• How much food do I need to eat?

• When do I have time to cook?

• What am I going to eat?

These are all things you need to consider if you are planning on making a serious change to what you are eating.

Let’s start with the what. What are you going to eat? Each meal should consist of three things: protein (gains), carbohydrates (energy), and fat. If you are not used to cooking, find something that looks tasty online and make sure you can check off each of those boxes. Gather up all those ingredients and there you go, you have made a grocery list!

Now let’s work on the amount. Every person is created differently, so when deciding on how much food you need to eat, it will depend on your goals and life demands. To keep it simple, just make sure you can check off those three boxes with each meal - protein, carbs, and fat.

Now that you know what you’re going to eat and how much, pick a day every week that you know you can consistently find an hour for that trip to the grocery store, and don’t forget your list! Depending on which recipes you are trying out, the time to cook may vary from week to week but you have done the hard part.

Sounds like a lot of work doesn't it? That's because it is!

These are the things that will allow you to make those positive changes to your diet and help improve your energy, focus, and maybe even the person you see in the mirror.

Flo-Town Fitness 24

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612 S Irby St, Florence | flo-town-fitness.triib.com

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NON-PROFIT

pictured l to r: Amanda Scott, Madison Floyd, and Haley Tremblay | photo by Mike Baker, Second Floor Media

A Partnership With The Community Madison Floyd has a face that many in our community may recognize. For years he successfully owned, operated, and expanded Trinity Healthcare Staffing Group where he along with a team of professionals placed registered nurses, therapists, and other licensed healthcare workers on short-term assignments in hospitals across the United States.

After selling the company to Travel Nurse Across America, Madison found himself with the opportunity to pursue another passion, giving back to his community.

Since the age of six, Madison has called Florence home. He grew up here, made friends here, and many

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of those friends later worked with him at Trinity.

This community became part of the backbone of his success. It seemed plausible to take what he’d learned throughout the years and reinvest it in the place he considers home.

Shortly after retiring from Trinity Healthcare, Madison began thinking about the intentions of the non-profit organization originally started by him and his father, Dan Floyd – The Madison Floyd Foundation.

"While we were not wealthy, my parents always sought areas they could give time and monetary donations," explained Madison. "They had seven foster kids and six that they eventually adopted. My dad and mom

The Madison Floyd Foundation exists to empower charities and community service organizations, locally and internationally, to help those in darkness find the light; to help those in need find health and hope. are the most charitable and giving humans that I know." The Foundation was originally Dan's idea but Madison was eager to join in. "We are a family with a heart for helping others."

Through the Foundation, they researched and properly designated funds to charities and community service organizations that were dear to them. While Madison loved this, he felt like there was more they could do. He envisioned The Madison Floyd Foundation as a platform to connect charities and service organizations with networking partners. “When researching charity organizations, I noticed a commonality.

Most of them had very little activity across their social media accounts. Even though they may have thousands of followers, they weren’t taking advantage of that reach.” Madison and Dan approached a few of the organizations they worked with and offered them a unique proposition – The Madison Floyd Foundation (MFF) would incur the cost in their social media management, content creation, and website development. The proposal was well received.

What seems like years in the making, The MFF launched its new partnership with the community in February. Madison and Dan have worked diligently on assembling a talented team so that they can successfully reach the needs of the organizations they work with. Madison expresses his appreciation for current team members - Amanda Scott, owner of Amanda Scott Consulting, and Haley Tremblay, owner of Modern Village.

Amanda works directly with the Foundation to provide social media management and marketing that benefits the charities they help.

“I am so excited to make a direct and positive impact in the world around me,” Amanda explains. “The charities and organizations that the Foundation work with provide so much value and with our help, more people will know exactly what that is and how they can be a part of it! Our community needs us now more than

ever and it’s something that has been laid on my heart to help with.”

Haley and Amanda work together on several projects through the Foundation and are grateful for the opportunity to learn from each other. Amanda responds, “Haley is so much fun, extremely creative, and very inspiring to be around! I love watching her in the zone with graphic design because what she creates perfectly exemplifies the brand.”

Haley, along with her husband Luke, own Modern Village, a graphic design firm located in Florence. Their services include logo design, branding/rebranding, website design, graphics for social media, and layout design for printed materials. "Collaborating with the Foundation means that we get a chance to build relationships with and offer our talents to the organizations and people that are truly making a difference in our community," says Haley.

The Foundation has already began its journey in helping local nonprofits expand their reach.

Cecilia Meggs, Lighthouse Ministries Executive Director, praises the team for helping them reboot their social media. "The words I describe the group by are awesome and refreshing," she says. "They have such great knowledge and understanding; it's a blessing to our organization." Within two weeks of MFF taking over their social media, Cecilia has already received compliments on their feed. "I know it's working and I can already see a huge difference."

In addition to helping Lighthouse Ministries with their social media, MFF is working on a new logo and upgrading their website for them.

Together, this team is committed to active participation with their partners – providing hands-on help for each organization they support. The Foundation is also making efforts to build new partnerships with the community by recruiting additional sponsors and donors.

If you would like to learn more about The Madison Floyd Foundation and would like to help them grow in their community outreach, please visit TheMadisonFloydFoundation.com.

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NON-PROFIT story by Kimberly Brauss

“This is a bit of an experiment,” said Kevin A. Smith, manager and announcer at Radio Free, during one of the first few episodes rolled out for the Faces of Florence series at the radio station. “We’re trying to create a video series with the intention of getting to know our neighbors here in Florence. My explainer typically is that we want to love our neighbors but it’s hard to effectively love your neighbors if you don’t know them.”

Radio Free, founded by Kris Meade, is a 24hour Christian mix radio station broadcasting out of Florence that also looks for ways to partner with the community: “From spotlighting community events to supporting local church bodies to building relationships with partner ministries, Radio Free is determined to use our resources to help build the Kingdom here on Earth.”

And so late last year, the station started producing a podcast focusing on people of interest in the community – ranging from musicians, faith-based leaders, business leaders to community members making a difference in the Florence area.

“We simply want to help promote unity, find common ground, and bring down perceived barriers by introducing our viewers to people they might not already know,” Smith said.

Smith, who has lived in Florence off and on since grade school, calls Florence home. “I often say Florence is home to most of the people I love the most, so I am here to stay.”

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Kevin Smith

Radio Free Manager and Announcer

And he’s been with Radio Free for the past six years. Smith attributes his career and how he arrived at Radio Free to God. “The only logical answer is God. … It seems so unlikely at the time, but obviously, there was a bigger plan unfolding.”

Smith, a music connoisseur, programs the playlist on Radio Free 92.5 FM. Take a listen to hear some of his favorite cross-sections of pop and rock that he digs. Smith also plays guitar and produces instrumental music during his off hours.

“When I began working for Radio Free, we needed a voice for some on-air stuff so I gave it a try,” Smith said. “Very clunky at first, but eventually I got the hang of it.”

And that to being a videographer and producer – Faces of Florence was a perfect fit.

“For Faces of Florence, we try to do a mix (of research and conversation). It’s nice to know a little something about the people I sit down with, but I find that an interview becomes more of a conversation

“I learn something from everyone I talk to and it has been so meaningful to me to see the different ways people embrace the teachings of Jesus in their vocation or profession. Yes, Mike Reichenbach sells cars but his heart is to give of his time and resources to better the community as a whole. Jamie Stuckey had the courage to transform personal trauma into healing by allowing herself to be vulnerable as she walks with the Lord. I learned how John Mark Calhoun approached the difficult task of police work with a servant’s heart and a love for his fellow man. I learned that in addition to her work in child advocacy, Sarah Sweeney teaches self-defense classes for women! The stories go on and on…”

-Kevin Smith

when I just let it flow and avoid being rigid. It can be nerve-wracking for the interviewee, so my goal is to create a relaxed atmosphere and let it happen naturally.

“We’re looking for locals who are doing Kingdom work in their everyday lives,” Smith said. “And it’s difficult to choose because there are so many interesting and important people here in Florence!

Basically, I just keep adding names to my master list and getting people to drop by the studio whenever they can, and the list has grown quite large!”

Episodes of Faces of Florence can be found weekly at Radio Free’s Facebook page and @ RadioFreeFlorence on YouTube, and you can listen to our radio station 24/7 at 92.5 FM in the Florence area or listen online at www.radiofree.cc.

New episodes air on Tuesdays Tune in at 92.5 FM in Florence Or listen online at www.radiofree.cc Facebook: www.facebook.com/RadioFree.cc March 2021

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MARCH 2021 CALENDAR of EVENTS sunday

monday

1

tuesday

wednesday

2

3

thursday

4

?

National Pig Day

7

8

9

Evening of Hope with Tim Tebow Florence Center

Cereal Day

14

15

Daylight Savings Time

21

National Napping Day

Meatball Day

Johnny Appleseed Day

18

St. Patrick's Day

24

Farm Rescuer Day

25

March 22nd-26th Lighthouse Ministries BBQ Fundraiser Holt Bros, Florence

29

Palm Sunday

17

23

Marion's First Thursday Late Night Shopping Downtown Marion

11

National Mario Day

World Social Work Day

see page 31 for details

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I Want You to Be Happy Day

10

16

22

Yoga and Sound in the Greenhouse Forest Lake Greenhouses, Florence

Read Across America Day (Dr. Seuss Day)

National Sons Day

Mom & Pop Business Owners Day

Puppy Day

30

Take a Walk in the Park Day

Cheesesteak Day

31

Home Run Job Fair Florence Darlington Technical College

Medal of Honor Day

Send in your events to heather@vipmagsc.com! friday

5

saturday

6 Power ComiCon Florence Center

March 5th-7th Southern Showdown Florence Speedway

12

Farmer's Market Open (6th & 20th) Main St Commons, Marion

13 Open Garden: Bulbapalooza & Garden Tea Party Moore Farms Botanical Gardens, Lake City Girl Scout Day

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Films at the Farm: Disney's "Cars" Moore Farms Botanical Gardens, Lake City Spring Begins

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27 Cut Floral Garden Planning Forest Lake G, Florence Charcuterie Workshop The Hive, Marion

Open House Florence Christian School

Cookie Decorating Classes The Groundout, Marion

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story by Kimberly Brauss For more than three decades, Manna House serves warm meals to the homeless and underprivileged in the Florence community.

Last summer, Paul E. Jones Jr., a native of Washington, D.C., was named executive director after Daphine Tedder’s 21-year leadership came to an end. Jones started as a volunteer at the Manna House in 2012 to 2016.

“The Manna House is an extension of a community that cares for its underprivileged, poor, and homeless by serving hot meals daily, providing monthly grocery allotments to families, and recently providing clothes for those without,” Jones said.

Manna House is a faith-based nonprofit. “It does not matter whether you are a millionaire or homeless, you are eligible to receive our services,” Jones said. With the help of volunteers, a kitchen manager, and an assistant, the kitchen serves about 1,000 people weekly.

“Before the pandemic, volunteers were allowed to cook but now we are only allowing the paid staff to cook. They have been trained in food safety and prepare food to avoid contamination,” Jones said. “We have a pantry manager that bags food with grains, canned goods, and frozen meat products and they are equally distributed.”

Jones, 50, retired from the United States Air Force, describes himself as a perfect fit for this role. He also has an 34

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Paul E. Jones

Executive Director

associate degree in Culinary Arts, as well as a bachelor’s degree in history, and an associate degree in system management from Community College of Air Force.

The culinary arts degree helps with understanding kitchen management, food waste, and food preparation. The menu for the kitchen is decided by available food. Four of the five days a week, food is a hot meal with the basic food groups. The fifth day is a cold lunch.

“The Manna House is a tool for God to extend his love to those who may not be in a position to feel or see how God really is there for them. We are fulfilling the mandate that God has given us to take care of the poor and downtrodden,” Jones said.

According to the 2019 homeless population survey, Total Care for Homeless Coalition reported 112 unsheltered and 103 sheltered homeless in Florence.

“While homelessness is a year-round issue, it is also helpful to understand the extent of persons experiencing homelessness at a single point in time. The state’s Annual Point-in-Time Count (PIT) conducted on the night of January 23, 2019, identified 4,172 persons as experiencing homelessness. While this focus on a singlenight vastly under-represents the number of persons in need of

If you would like to donate to the Manna House, it always needs monetary and food donations, and volunteers. For more information, call 843667-6077. Monetary contributions can be sent to The Manna House, P.O. Box 13541, Florence, SC 29504.

housing assistance across an entire year, it is a useful statistic to track from year-to-year,” according to the 2019 South Carolina State of Homelessness Report from the South Carolina Interagency Council of Homelessness.

“Many of the patrons not only give thanks for the nourishment we provide, but some just come to have someone nice to talk to,” Jones said. “I talk to as many people as I can daily because you never know when someone just wants to see a smile and say hello.”

“As a volunteer, you make the management of the facility during operation hours less overwhelming and taxing on the few employees and your presence shows the community that people care for them.

Donations keep our doors open. We are a non-profit, and we know we have to put in the work to raise money for this mission to continue, but personal donations are our lifeblood.”

Manna House relies on donations of canned and dried food. Fresh vegetables, fruits, some frozen meats are purchased from Harvest Hope, the local food bank.

“We also use donated monies to purchase from local grocery stores and food distribution centers,” Jones said. “We hold a can food drive two to three times a year, which helps us save money,” Jones said.

“This being my first year, I have not as of yet had a fundraiser, but I am on the ground floor of planning a Manna House Gala this summer hoping to raise around $20,000."

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NON-PROFIT

2020 Conservation Round Up Despite the struggles 2020 brought on many parts of our world, Pee Dee Land Trust (PDLT) finished out the year as one of the most successful years in our 21-year history! PDLT partnered with seven new landowners to permanently protect over 4,093 new acres!

154 W. Evans Street, 2nd Floor, Florence (843) 667-3229 | peedeelandtrust.org

1

Woodfield-Lynches Tract - 108 Acres

This property was most generously donated to PDLT by the Tim Dargan Family in 2017 with the intent for PDLT to sell to a conservation buyer. In early 2020, PDLT sold it to Stephen Doby and placed a conservation easement on it, and utilized the proceeds to support the land trust’s Our Places Endowment and land protection operations. With over 3,730 feet along the scenic Lynches River, the property will never be able to be subdivided and the conservation buffers will keep this frontage forested.

2

Rogers Family Farm - 499 Acres

This property is located along Cottingham Creek in Marlboro County, which feeds into the Pee Dee River. The majority of this family farm is managed for planted pines to provide resources for the South Carolina timber industry with fertile fields managed for habitat and agriculture. This project was partially funded thanks to the South Carolina Conservation Bank and it further expands the protected greenway through Marlboro County.

3

Scottland Road Tract - 95 Acres

The property was originally purchased by Open Space Institute (OSI) in 2017. Using funds that were secured from the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s North American Wetlands Conservation Act Grant through a partnership with NC Coastal Land Trust and the SC Conservation Bank, PDLT purchased the property from OSI and donated it to Dillon County who placed a conservation easement on the property. It touts 2,800 feet of scenic views on the South Carolina Designated Scenic Little Pee Dee River. Intact watershed forests on the property act as a natural filter to clean drinking water downstream and can moderate the flow of water, reducing the risk of flooding downstream.

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4

Prince George Tract - 1,065 Acres

For over 5 years, PG Preservation, LLC has been diligently working to permanently protect this property.

Nestled between Highway 17 Business, just outside of Georgetown, the conservation easement on the Prince George Tract protects pristine scenic views, wetland habitat, and forested buffers. With over 5,000 feet of frontage on Pawleys Creek, the scenic view from the south end of Pawleys Island that includes a public breach will forever be protected for locals and visitors to enjoy.

5

Hobbs Farm - 525 Acres

This is a sportsman’s paradise that touts 1.5 miles along the Scenic Lynches River in Sumter County. The property has exceptional diversity including fields managed for wildlife and agriculture, natural pine stands, bottomland hardwoods, and Cypress-Tupelo swamps.

Thanks to funding from the Lynches River Conservation Fund, managed by the Central Carolina Community Foundation, the Stokes brothers will be able to share this property with family and friends for generations to come.

6

Lockstone Farms - 531 Acres

The property has been a lifelong project of Dr. L. R. Perry’s to piece back together a portion of the Truluck (his mother’s family) property that dates back to the 1700s. The current 9 parcels that make up the property have exceptional diversity including fields managed for wildlife and agriculture and natural pine stands. Additionally, it will never be subdivided in the future. Although this property does not have frontage on the Lynches River it is very close in proximity and was funded by the Lynches River Conservation Fund due to the water filtration and habitat conservation qualities it provides for the Lynches River corridor.

7

Southern 8ths Farm - 1,271 Acres

Landowner, Brad Turley, has worked diligently to piece together and create an outdoor wonderland that will be managed by his Foundation to provide education and the opportunity to connect with nature. The majority of this vastly unique property is managed for wildlife and native plants and includes an amazing equestrian cross-country trail system. Located adjacent to the North Carolina border just north of Chesterfield, the conservation easement on this property will provide permanent protection of the rural scenic views along two miles of public road frontage, 1.2 miles on Talton Branch, 1.25 miles on Muddy Branch, and 3-miles on Thompson Creek, a major tributary of the Great Pee Dee River. Ongoing research has proven the property has a significant Native American and Civil War history, along with being home to approximately 603 species of insects, 206 species of trees and plants, 131 species of birds, 30 species of herpetofauna, and 14 species of mammals.

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NON-PROFIT story by Kimberly Brauss

Florence Area Literacy Council “Education is something that is not a temporary fix to a problem. Education opens doors and leads to a more positive future,” Christina Lawson, executive director of the Florence Area Literacy Council, said. “We are here to help change lives, to help parents become better advocates for their children, to help a mother or father become educationally qualified to work or help their children with homework. For us, it’s not just about a diploma or a GED, it’s about changing lives and creating more opportunities. It’s about breaking the generational cycle of illiteracy in our community.”

“The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.” – B.B. King, legendary blues musician In 1976, a small group of people wanted to make a difference in the Florence community and started the Florence Area Literacy Council (FALC). Christina Lawson, a graduate from Francis Marion University with a mass communication degree, has been the executive director of the council for nearly 16 years.

"The council is crucial to the community because of the importance of breaking the cycle of Generational Illiteracy. It helps more adults become educationally qualified to work and helps parents advocate for their children," Lawson said.

About 32 million adults in the United States can’t read, according to the U.S. Department of Education and the National Institute of Literacy. And about 50 percent of adults cannot read on an eighth-grade reading level.

South Carolina has the 13th highest rate of functional illiteracy in the United States, according to The Literacy Center. And in Florence, Lawson says one out of three adults are illiterate – or roughly 33 percent of the adult population.

Causes of illiteracy range from having parents with little schooling, difficult living conditions, including poverty, to learning disabilities, lack of books and stimulation at home to doing badly in school. What’s 38

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Christina Lawson Florence Area Literacy Council Director

more is adult illiteracy affects unemployment rates.

Adults aged 45 and older with low literacy levels belong to generations with “attractive job opportunities despite a lower level of schooling.” Once these companies close, especially in the manufacturing and primary sectors, those adults are unable to find new opportunities because they’re lacking in reading and writing and not having the skills to meet today’s requirements.

“Our goal is to give every adult learner (18 and older) the education and skills to become self-sufficient,” Lawson said. “A better education can lead to a better quality of life. The FALC offers instruction for basic literacy, English literacy, the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), and pre-GED preparation.

Adult learners have the opportunity to learn with a tutor, in small groups or participate in independent learning guided by computer programs.”

Florence Area Literacy Council serves hundreds of students every year. It offers self-paced adult instruction that is tailored to fit the academic and scheduling needs of the adult learners. One-on-one classes are available with tutors based on needs and availability of tutors.

Adult basic education program provides instruction for pre-GED, reading, writing, spelling, and mathematics.

English as a second language is also offered. What’s more, the council also offers special programs and workshops for workplace skills, health literacy, financial literacy, and parenting skills.

Like area nonprofits, Florence Area Literacy Council is funded through donations, gifts, contributions, grants, and the like. During the pandemic, however, its significant fundraisers (Lip Sync Battle) have been canceled or postponed.

Contributions can help reduce the number of functionally illiterate.

The need for the Council hasn’t gone away since its inception. Through trained volunteer tutors serving the greater Florence area, the vision of the council is to have a population where each adult is functionally literate.

“There are so many moments that remind us that we are doing a great thing,” Lawson said. “The moment a student cried because she read a full sentence on her own for the first time in her life.

The day a student told her tutor her dream was to read. A student told us that he was able to speak at a funeral and not feel scared. When students say, ‘I never thought I could… .’ The day a 76-year-old was able to read a newspaper without help. And one of the simplest ways we know we are doing a great thing is the ‘Thank You’ that we receive from our students.”

GIVE THE GIFT OF READING TO AN ADULT LEARNER www.FlorenceAreaLiteracyCouncil.com 240 S. Dargan St., Florence, SC 29506 843-667-1600 | florenceliteracy@yahoo.com Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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NON-PROFIT

In 2019, Cynthia Ford saw a need within preteens and teens alike. While they gathered most of the information they needed to excel as an adult through the educational system, Cynthia wanted them to have more. Beyond Empowerment, an organization out of Marion County was born out of her desire to see young adults thrive as productive and wholesome adults. Follow along as Cynthia helps answer all the questions Vip had on exactly what Beyond Empowerment is and what influence they have on our community.

• First off, tell us a little bit about yourself.

“It’s challenging to speak on who we are when we live such busy lives; it’s hard to stop for self-reflection. We can start with my education, I have a Bachelor of Arts from Coastal Carolina University, a master’s in Psychology from the University of Phoenix, an associate’s in Criminal Justice from the Community College of the Air Force, and an associate’s in Practical Nursing Technology. I was born in South Carolina and am the author of Free As An Uncaged Bird. At the core, I believe I’m a collection of many things.”

• Tell us about founding Beyond Empowerment.

“Beyond Empowerment was born out of a desire to see young adults flourish into lives that are productive and wholesome. I wanted them to skip the mistakes or poor decisions of those before them and to prepare their futures while they were still in the process of settling on who they are and where they planned to be. Through Beyond Empowerment, youth go beyond what they are usually taught and broaden their way of thinking through the exposure of the curriculum that is distinctively designed to ensure that they are prepared to soar.”

• How does Beyond Empowerment operate?

“We serve preteens and teens through an after school curriculum and summer camp. The program is offered during the spring and fall. The summer camp is week40

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long. The initial summer camp was scheduled to be held at Coastal Carolina University. However, it was held virtually due to COVID. The in-person camp was postponed until the summer of 2021, depending on the status with COVID. So far we have offered an eight-week program for youth in 2019 and a twelve-week program in 2020. We’ve made additions in 2020 to allow youth the opportunity to be certified in First Aid CPR, develop business plans, and look forward to the addition of the business pitch competition. At the culmination of the program, youth have an opportunity to participate in a business pitch competition in which the top three presenters receive incentives based on their presentation. The eight core components of the program include leadership/ stewardship, communication, the art of self-care, career exploration, job readiness, financial literacy, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship.”

• Who is eligible to apply for the program?

“Preteens and Teens. Now that we can serve virtually, we are open to serving youth in various counties and states. We have seen participation as far as California.

When we served in person, we worked after school with youth in the Marion County area. Due to COVID, we switched to a virtual format for the safety of participants and guests.”

"Beyond Empowerment was born out of a desire to see young adults flourish into lives that are productive and wholesome."

-Cynthia Ford

• What has been the response from students in the program?

“They showed up faithfully in order to gain knowledge and skills necessary for their personal growth and development. That alone was a response, that they continued to come when it wasn’t an obligation or requirement. I can also see the growth and confidence when comparing their first day to their last day in the program. It’s inspiring to watch the kids in this program.”

• How can the community become involved with the Beyond Empowerment organization?

“Certainly through donations. We raise funds throughout the year for a scholarship for Beyond Empowerment students and to help cover the cost for student certification in First Aid CPR and needs for the business pitch competition. The community can also help by extending platforms in which the curriculum can be taught, they can refer youth to the program, and they can participate in Tips for Teens.

“This year we will be awarding each scholarship recipient with a memoir full of words of wisdom from local sponsors. Sponsorships are available for businesses or individuals. There are four levels of sponsorships available making it easy for every budget. The Harvester ($100) level includes a full page highlight of your business logo or photograph with your personal words of wisdom; The Cultivator ($40) level includes a half page feature with a photograph and your personal words of wisdom; The Seed Sower ($20) includes a quarter page feature with your words of wisdom; The Planter ($10) will feature your name in the list of donors. The student will receive the printed memoir along with the scholarship in May of 2021."

"If you would like to participate in helping to provide a scholarship for this years Beyond Empowerment recipient, please email your photograph along with your words of wisdom to beyondempowerment10@gmail.com."

To learn more about Beyond Empowerment, visit them on their social media accounts or their website, www.beyond-empowerment.com.

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NON-PROFIT

Resurrection Restoration Center F O R THE H O MEL ES S

The Home of Second Chances Resurrection Restoration Center for the Homeless is an organization that many haven’t heard of. Modestine and Louis Brody created the center out of love, grace, and experiences.

At 40 years old, Modestine had nearly given up on the prospect of marriage until Louis walked through her home church doors. “As soon as I laid eyes on him, I knew he was the one,” Modestine gushes. After four months of dating, the couple was wed.

Louis was soon called to start Resurrection Outreach Ministries which began in a community center in Florence. The outreach made themselves at home in several locations, eventually outgrowing each. They are now in what they consider their permanent home on Douglas Street in Florence. “Obtaining the property on Douglas Street was part of the destiny that would lead to the birth of the Resurrection Restoration Center for the Homeless,” Modestine says.

Modestine and Louis’s inspiration to start the organization stems from several things but in the end “We simply wanted to help people experience the lifechanging love of God.” Modestine explains it best, “My husband and I were not perfect but we accomplished so many things by God’s grace. Louis went from being a homeless veteran to being the director of food services for the Department of Special needs. “We wanted to help other people who had been given up on or discarded.”

After the initial purchase of the building on Douglas Street, the Brody’s were still unsure of what their entire purpose was. Modestine spoke with a friend that worked for the local mental health center and was told there was a need for housing patients that were mentally ill and homeless. And that’s how it all began!

The Resurrection Outreach Ministries received funding to help care for those in need. Although the funding eventually ended, the need for the homeless continued.

That’s when the ministry began housing the “least of these” on their own. “Through the years, we have done the best we could to provide shelter, food and clothing, faith-based services, and transportation to families, mentally ill, disabled veterans, and whoever could not find placement elsewhere,” Modestine explains.

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story by Grant Parker

“We have taken in homeless people from other shelters, hospitals, agencies, church referrals, and right off of the street. Much of the time, it has been a struggle because we did not have the resources to compete with some of the larger shelters for funding.

However, we have continued to do what we believe God called us to do. We have leaned on the help of individuals, faith-based partners, and other community partners.”

Operating a nonprofit of this nature also takes a lot of personal sacrifices. Modestine remembers being nominated for the Building Bridges Award some years ago, “The person who nominated me said that many times I had to neglect my own family to help those who could not help themselves.” She talks about how there is always a price to pay when you’re helping others but she knew God was leading her and it would all be okay.

Sadly, Louis passed away eight years ago from colon cancer. “I lost my business partner, darling, and husband that day. Three years after that, I lost my mom to Alzheimer’s Disease; we had taken care of her for 17 years prior. Then three years ago, my most dependable assistant, bookkeeper, best friend, and sister all rolled into one died due to Multiple Myeloma. Additionally, we had to fight a foreclosure that occurred due to circumstances beyond our control. We lost the battle but through Godly intervention, we are now in full ownership. There have been times when we felt like the ‘hidden figures’ of homeless providers. Resurrection has been here since 2004; we have been a 501c3 since 2008, yet we are still hidden to some. My husband was the business mind and I do admit we’ve struggled since his passing. My sister was the organizer and we have not yet been able to fully replace her, but through hell and high water (yes, it floods here sometimes), we have been determined to fulfill our calling.”

What Resurrection Really Does…

Modestine Brody

Resurrection has always tried to fill gaps in services for the homeless. “I believe every shelter and homeless program in Florence is doing their best in the area they serve but because of the overwhelming need, we can still identify needs that are not being met,” Modestine explains. “One need in our community is a shelter for whole families.” It takes a lot of case management, funding, volunteers, food, cleaning supplies, gas, insurance, utilities, and building maintenance to run the program. That isn’t stopping Modestine from trying. However, she can’t and doesn’t do this alone.

Modestine is forever grateful to the volunteers that continue to give their time to the organization. Several other avenues need fulfilling: a secretary, a night supervisor, someone to install cameras and monitoring equipment, someone to help with fundraising, an accountant, electrician, a concrete finisher to repair the driveway, a driver to assist in taking residents to and from appointments, someone to help construct an on-site garden…the list goes on and on. If you are searching for an area to serve, Resurrection can use your assistance.

If you’d like to reach out to Resurrection or come by for a visit, call (843) 472-9346 or (843) 601-7935.

You can also visit their website, www.rrcfh.org, for more information.

“There are a couple of stories I’d like to share that might help explain exactly who we are. The first story starts with a call I received from a local hospital. They had a 17-year-old young man who had been abandoned by his family. We were told the family was afraid of him due to bizarre behavior. Ironically, he came to us in a cab driven by the late Ed Robinson. I was a little nervous. The young man was inappropriately dressed in a large coat though the weather was nice. His words were almost inaudible. Among our other services, we provide bible study and prayer.

During prayer, this young man would make all kinds of noises. We cried out to God on his behalf and he stopped making the noises.

We took him to behavioral centers, mental health centers, doctors, and schools for help but to no avail. It took a while but we were able to discover he had an undiagnosed mental condition. He stayed in our program for five years. He went from barely talking to graduating from Poynor Adult School. He is now living in his own rental house and has a job at a local fast-food restaurant. We are still in touch with him and he still calls us when he needs advice. We try to let even those that society has given up on know that God has a plan for their lives and that they have something to give back.

“Another gentleman was referred to us from a hospital in Rock Hill. They could not find any place that would take him because of certain issues he had. I had to pray about taking him as well but in the end, we did.

He was bitter when he came. It was during the time that my husband passed. We had two dogs at the time so I asked him to help with them. That did it! He was so good with animals. He began to open up and I noticed he moved up closer in chapel services. He even began to play the guitar a little. We were able to help him get on disability and after a while, he gave his life to Christ. He began communicating with his estranged family and was invited to his daughter's wedding. He even started writing letters to his wife. They are now reunited and live in North Carolina."

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NON-PROFIT

Rev. Mary M. Finklea is a Lutheran pastor who currently serves as the Community and Congregational Engagement Coordinator for South Carolina Lutheran Retreat Centers. Mary serves on the board of Mercy Medicine and is currently the Board Chair of Eastern Carolina Community Foundation. In addition to her service on the Board, she is a donor, a fundholder, and a member of the Foundation's Giving Circle Fund, Women In Philanthropy.

Why I Support Eastern Carolina Community Foundation...

A few days before I turned 14, my mother died unexpectedly.

It was a difficult time for me, my older sister, and my younger brother. My parents had divorced the previous year, and my father suddenly had the momentous task, along with my stepmother, of raising three children. Because we were young, my siblings and I received Social Security for a few years before our 18th birthdays. Dad set roughly $3,200 aside for my future use and when I was in college, used it to purchase stock in Home Depot. From 1996 to 2020, it grew in value to approximately $40,000.

Since my basic needs are met through my work and that of my husband, I knew I wanted to set that money aside for something special. I had always intended for the legacy of that money to be used toward making a positive difference in the world. I assumed at some point I would share it with my favorite charities and beloved ministries that are meaningful to me. It dawned on me that by donating it to my donor-advised fund at Eastern Carolina Community Foundation (ECCF) that I could accomplish two, well, really several, good things at once.

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Mary's Reasons Why 1) My plan allows some of the money to grow so that it can support good, effective charities in the future.

2) It strengthens the ongoing work of ECCF through the small foundation support fee.

3) It increases the total corpus of ECCF, creating a stronger and more vibrant local community foundation. I am part of a $13 million investment designated for changing the world!

ECCF Mission Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs.

We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg counties.

To learn more contact Belle Zeigler, Executive Director, at belle@ easterncarolinacf.org.

4) By transferring the stock to a charity, my tax burden is negligible, meaning more dollars go to ministry instead of taxes.

5) I get the chance to practice what I preach, be bold in generosity, and grow in faith.

6) I know Mom would be proud. This, I am sure, would bring her joy and is a testament to her legacy as my mother.

I invite you to consider ways that make sense to you to support the work of the Foundation, and maybe establish or contribute to an existing Donor Advised Fund with a stock transfer. Or consider, as a faithful steward, passing on a legacy that was entrusted to you, and create a fund in memory of a loved one. One by one, these gifts add up to create significant momentum for our local non-profits and result in changed lives!

Be a force… For Good. For Ever.

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NON-PROFIT story by Kimberly Brauss

Helping Florence Flourish For the past 18 years, Rev. Chris Handley has been the Associate Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Florence.

He and his wife, Dottie, moved to Florence with their three sons when the oldest was a young teenager.

“This community has much going for it,” Handley said, including that it’s more than just the businessrelated aspect.

Throughout Florence’s past, church leaders have formed groups to help the community at times when healing was visibly needed. “Helping Florence Flourish was created in an effort to pull the people of God together across racial and denominational lines for the express purpose of blessing Florence,” Handley said.

“In a world marked by individualism and division, Helping Florence Flourish swims upstream to create relational connections that demonstrate the possibility of mutual care and support among all those who call Florence home.” In leading Helping Florence Flourish, the team tries to be aware of those who are not flourishing and those who would want to help the community flourish.

“There are so many folks in need, but I can tell you there’s a significant number of people trying to put those folks on a path to a flourishing life.” Helping Florence Flourish began in 2015 with four focus groups, 46

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which were established from a survey given to dozens of local Christian leaders. The survey asked them to identify the greatest needs in our community. The results grew into five ministry areas Helping Florence Flourish (HFF) focuses on: education, homelessness, restoration of the family, racial bridging, and citywide prayer gatherings.

Its mission is “Working toward a visible demonstration of the unity of the Body of Christ to bless Florence.”

Its funding comes from individuals, donations, grants, foundations, and churches.

Over the years, the group has hosted notable speakers involved with race relations. In 2017, nationally known pastor and author Tony Evans came to Florence with “Oneness Embraced.” Evans discussed his writings that challenge churches and communities to join together and bridge the gap between racial and socioeconomic divides with the community.

And in early 2018, Mission Mississippi President Neddie Winters was brought in to talk at HFF’s event on bridging Florence, giving Florence residents strong ideas on working as one in the community. Later in 2018, the

Pee Dee Crisis Response was created out of the deadly community tragedy that happened that October. Through the support of many churches and community members, the team of first-responders provides care during any type of crisis – delivering citizens emergency response on scene as well as off-scene spiritual first aid. The team includes crisis chaplains and community chaplains trained to provide pastoral care and counseling for employees and families of first-responders and the public.

HFF’s most visual presence in the community is during its yearly summertime “mission project.” Churches often take groups overseas to help missionaries in other parts of the world. First Presbyterian’s youth director at the time, Stacey Severance, determined that instead of going overseas, he would organize the youth group to work on a stay-at-home project. Thus in 2016 was born the idea to “serve our neighbors next door.” ServeFLO is a city project because it is an opportunity for all churches to love and serve Florence together during a season of service. Community ideas are submitted to HFF and teams are created to execute the work.

Another summertime activity HFF brought to the area is WinShape Camps for Communities. Through grants and other funding, a certain percentage of children are able to attend the camp through assistance – many of whom wouldn’t be able to attend camp away from home. The weeklong day camp provides a similar experience – fun, faith, and friendship. This year’s camp will be held July 26-30 at First Presbyterian Church. More details on the camp can be found at camps.winshape.org/day-camps.

Registration opens March 1.

If you’re interested in Helping Florence Flourish, visit helpingflorenceflourish.org or email Rev. Handley at chandley@florencefirst.org.

Five Pillars of Helping Florence Flourish Education The HFF Educational Partnership Focus Group seeks to reinvigorate and oversee the Adopt-a-School program implemented years ago in Florence School District 1.

HOMELESSNESS Organize and promote the creation of a wellorganized and faith-based volunteer network to support homeless ministry in our community.

RESTORATION OF THE FAMILY The Restoration of the Family Focus Group’s mission is to address the condition of the deterioration of the family in Florence County and offer solutions to bless our community.

RACIAL BRIDGING The HFF Racial Bridging Focus Group has regular meetings for pastors and ministry leaders to meet and network, learn and discuss race and other local issues, and pray for each other and our city.

CITYWIDE PRAYER GATHERINGS CityWide Prayer Gatherings meet at a different church each month and invite area churches to participate.

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MINUTES Leadership Hartsville 2021 would like to send a special thank you to our guests who presented to our class on January 20, 2021. We started our day with Jamie Kelly and our continuous John Maxwell Training. We received great information on educational options for our scholars from birth to college.

Our morning started off with Dr. Jerome Reyes, President of Butler Academy, sharing the academy’s commitment to building a dynamic learning environment. The academy is the home of kindergarten through fourth grade. Each year the academy will add another grade until they are a fully inclusive academic community of grades kindergarten through twelfth. Following Dr. Reyes, Heather Byrd, owner of Montessori Day Academy of Hartsville shared information on her facility. This is a private, independent education institution that practices the Montessori Method of learning. This method emphasizes independence while offering a supportive, environment. Their children are from ages six weeks to six years, the concepts of independent and self-lead learning. The classrooms are calm and quiet learning spaces, where students interact with each other in respectful ways and build communities and relationships.

Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing & Technology’s (SiMT) Social Media Listening Center gave us an overview of social media and how we can create engaging posts and use analysis to make sure we are achieving our ultimate goals, posts with substance, and meaning to create positive interactions. We heard from Duane Childers about ways the Social Media Listening Center can grow businesses.

A Florence-Darlington Technical College Hartsville Campus representative gave us an overview of classes offered and classes that are soon to be added. The Hartsville campus seeks to offer classes that will provide a strong foundation for the community of Hartsville.

Dr. Harder, the new President of Coker University talked with us on new and innovative ways to reach students seeking to attend college and the scholarly offerings as well as sports and extracurricular classes.

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written by Theresa M. Curtis, MJ, CPS, ICPS ECHO Coordinator Director of Prevention Services Rubicon Family Counseling Services

Our afternoon guests included Emmanuel Christian School, opened in the fall of 1963.

Students are from k2 through 12. Along with the traditional curriculum of math, science, reading, history, and language arts, Emmanuel also exercises activities to shape students socially, physically, mentally, and most importantly spiritually. Trinity Collegiate School shared their proud history of being voted one of the top ten private schools in South Carolina. They accept grades sixth through twelfth and instill in their students the motto of “Loyalty, Honor, Perseverance.” Their mission and values help prepare the students to become well-rounded citizens with the ability to lead productive lives in today’s society. Thomas Hart Academy enrolls students 2K through eighth grade. The school fosters academic and well-being of its students on a safe and nurturing environment.

The academy works to build a strong educational foundation in small classroom settings.

South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics spoke to us about the Hartsville campus. Students live on campus and are given a structured academic schedule, while learning to be responsible and independent. The school offers residential living for high school juniors and seniors. Virtual learning is another program offered for sophomores to earn up to 49 college credit hours working with the engineering program. Dr. Newman, Superintendent of Darlington County School District spoke with us on keeping Darlington County students safe during the pandemic. He gave insight on the virtual and hybrid learning models as well as the district’s preparations to prepare the schools for in-person learning.

We concluded the day with final touches on our 2021 project, Hartsville Walk of Fame, which is the selling of commemorative bricks which will line the sidewalk area in front of the Center Theater.

Anyone interested in information on purchasing a commemorative brick can contact Leadership Hartsville 2021 at hartsvillewalkoffame@gmail.com.

LIFESTYLE

a recap of conversation #3 - "Together We Can"

CULTURAL CONVERSATIONS

With its purpose to stimulate and enhance cultural awareness, the Francis Marion University African American Faculty and Staff Coalition continues to promote professional and community development in its Cultural Conversations series. Its third installment of the series featured Dr. Kiley Molinari on February 4.

Molinari

Molinari, assistant professor of anthropology at FMU, studies human societies, cultures, and their development.

According to her biography, her research focuses on material culture studies, Indigenous new media, and collaborative research in Native North America. For more than a decade, she’s worked on projects and presentations with the Apáalooke People (Crow Tribe), who primarily live in the southeastern part of Montana today.

Molinari’s talk focused on Native American Racial Injustices, Issues, and Socioeconomic Status Disparities.

How throughout history – 1492 to today – indigenous people’s culture, land, resources, religion, and language were “destroyed to replace” with the dominant religion and culture.

Indigenous people in our area and traditional lands – in the Pee Dee and state – include Catawba, Waccamaw, Pee Dee, and Wateree that have historic ties as well as traveling ties.

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story by Kimberly Brauss

1790, the early settlers inhabited land from South Carolina to New England and began “Settler Colonialism.” In 1830, there was the westward expansion. In the 1890s most of the reservations were established or taken away. And today, reservations are sparse.

While anthropology has a goal for understanding humans’ distinctiveness and diversity, the study has a contentious relationship with indigenous people.

In the late 1800s, a great amount of data was collected because anthropologists wanted to preserve the culture of the “vanishing race.” Well-known anthropologist Renato Rosaldo called this imperialist nostalgia – making racial domination seem innocent and yearning for what one has destroyed.

Having their cultures destroyed has led to some environmental activism against the “Settler Colonialism” that exists: protests for pipelines and telescopes being built on indigenous and sacred lands, addressing racist monikers and mascots for sports teams, being acknowledged as a race in its own right and not “something else” on a form.

Some good, Molinari said, came out of the era of Salvage Ethnography. Documentation and language revitalization, some material culture was preserved that might not have been.

But even today during the pandemic, indigenous people are disproportionately affected. By understanding the population’s history through to today’s challenges, the

distinctiveness and diversity need to be understood and aided.

Some strides have been made with the federal laws and inclusion with tribe training and bills to direct the Department of Justice to “review, revise and develop law enforcement and justice protocols to address missing or murdered Native Americans.”

We are excited to announce the

2021 AAFSC Diversity Award Recipient

Even as the pandemic rages, over the summer, the Navajo Nation, the largest reservation in the U.S., had the highest infection rate per its population with COVID-19.

Dr. Keith Daniel Brauss

The population already is at high risk of comorbidities: diabetes, high blood pressure, and lung and heart disease. Doctors without Borders was brought in for months to collaborate with community leaders to help battle the virus. A lack of access to “running water and adequate infrastructure, in addition to lack of access to health care and public health funding,” left the Navajo Nation at risk – to the point where the infection rate was one of the highest in the country.

Assistant Professor of Mathematics, FMU

Comparatively, unemployment during the pandemic rates rose most sharply for Native workers. The Census Bureau noted that: “American Indian / Alaskan Native … families are more likely than Caucasian and Asian families to live in poverty.”

But by the culture’s distinctiveness, and indicative of Native Americans still practicing their culture, way of life and religion, a term was created combining their survival and resistance to colonialism: Survivance.

Molinari’s presentation and studies showed that it’s understanding diversity that can yield inclusivity.

Help put truth into action The fourth conversation will be held Thursday, March 11, on “Racial issues and injustices facing the Hispanic and Asian American communities and how we can work to be inclusive” with Dr. Todd Couch.

Cultural Conversations takes place from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the FMU Performing Arts Center in downtown Florence. Each conversation consists of a 45-minute conversation and 15-20 minutes for a Question-andAnswer portion. To maintain social distancing, the lunchand-learn is limited to 40 in-person attendees reserved for FMU faculty and staff. Community members can participate online. The live stream link will be emailed before the session.

Register at: www.fmarion.edu/aafsc/

Dr. Brauss’s inclusion activities: • Using a Francis Marion REAL Grant to take seven students to San Antonio, Texas for SACNAS 2018 (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science). Four students attended the conference and its activities, while three students also presented posters and received feedback on their presentations from mentor judges.

• June 2019 organized a Science Fun Day for 38 primary school students at The Compassion Elementary School in Yo Creek Village, Orange Walk, Belize, Central America.

• Fall 2020 along with other math faculty was awarded a FMU PEAK grant to implement a Supplemental Instruction (SI) program which employs student leaders to develop career skills while assisting faculty instructors of College Algebra II and Probability and Statistics.

Past recipients of this prestigious award are: Dr. Rebecca Lawson (2010) • Dr. Louis Venters (2011) Ms. Angela Crosland (2012) • Dr. Rhonda M. Brogdon (2013) Ms. Yvonne Davis (2014) • Dr. Crystal L. Graham (2015) Dr. Will Wattles (2016) • Mr. Jason Owens (2017) Dr. Ruth A. Whitman-Price (2018) Dr. Shayna A. Wrighten (2019) • Dr. Erica James (2020)

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LIFESTYLE

THE CURE For Stay At Home

BOREDOM story by Allie Roark

Are you going stir crazy? This is the time of year where we are normally planning spring break trips, family vacations, and play dates. While some of those things are on hold, having some family fun doesn’t have to be. Here are some ideas for you and your family to get out of the house and have a little fun in the 843.

Kalmia Gardens- Hartsville, SC (Free)

Florence County Museum- Florence, SC (Free)

I will never forget the field trips I went on as a kid to Kalmia Gardens.

There is so much to do at this museum located in downtown Florence. Families can experience entertainment through interactive read alouds, arts and crafts, and galleries. This museum also offers several programs for your child throughout the year.

We always rushed down the long staircase to get to the trails. There is so much beauty as you walk along the pathway. It’s always a good idea to pack some snacks and some bug spray.

Coker College has opened up classrooms for field trips and summer programs for kids. You can check out the website for more information.

EdVenture- Hartsville, SC ($8.00 1 day pass) There’s no better way to spend your day than with hands on learning and fun. This place offers many topics to explore as well as a fun carousel to take a ride on. Edventure offers memberships or a 1 day pass to explore the excitement.

Pearl Fryar’s Topiary Garden- Bishopville, SC (Free) Have you been teaching your child the importance of hard work and inspiration? This is the perfect way to show them what that is. Pearl Fryar has beautifully sculpted his garden to showcase the beauty of nature.

Walking through his topiary garden is a perfect way to spend a spring day.

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Locked Inn Escape Rooms- Florence, SC ($25 pp) This is perfect for families with older children. These escape rooms are great for team building and problem solving. There are multiple rooms and storylines to choose from. Remember to book in advance and arrive early for your private room.

Defy Trampoline Park- Florence, SC (Prices range) Defy offers different packages and memberships to fit the needs of your family. This trampoline park includes a foam pit, an obstacle course, zip line, battle beams, a trapeze, dodgeball, basketball, and more. This is a great place for inside recess.

DIY Place Florence- Florence, SC (Prices range) I cannot wait to try this place for myself. I am sure you have seen these fun DIY projects on your Facebook timeline or instagram feed that locals have made at this cute little workshop. They offer projects for all ages.

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HOME

Green Eggs & Ham Breakfast Platter story and photos by Rebecca Giese "I do not like green eggs and ham."

What even is green eggs and ham?

Growing up, I always wondered what creature in Dr. Seuss's world produced actual green eggs and ham. Was it one animal or two? Or was it green due to the preparation process, like a thousand-yearold egg or bleu cheese? We may not live in the universe of Dr. Seuss, but we can use our imagination. In honor of Dr. Seuss's Birthday and Saint Patrick's Day, I decided to take a swing at creating a Green Eggs and Ham breakfast platter. And I can honestly now say, "I do not like green eggs and ham."

Not because of the taste, the pancakes, sunny side up eggs, and country ham all tasted the same, but the color wasn't the most appealing to me, as an adult, but I know some kids that would get a kick out of the weird coloring! But beware when creating this masterpiece, it leaves behind a big mess. I am still finding green food coloring here and there!

If you are interested in serving a breakfast platter of green eggs and ham, plus pancakes to your family this month, here are several tips I wish I had: 1. Wear gloves, just like dying Easter eggs this can and will get messy too; wear gloves to avoid green hands and green cuticles for a week.

2. Dying pancakes is easy! Just add dye to the batter but be careful about burning; it is a little harder to tell when ready to flip.

3. To dye the country ham: a. Take slices of ham and put them in a dish pre-filled with green food coloring and water. The color should almost look black; it is very dark. b. Let that sit for several minutes; the longer it sits, the more color it will have. c. Cook normally.

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4. To dye the eggs: a. Separate the egg whites and the yolk b. Place the egg whites in a small container with food coloring and water. Similar to ham, this mixture will almost look black. c. Add egg whites to the hot pan, start to cook egg whites. d. Once egg whites are starting to cook, carefully add the yolk in the middle. The yolk will reattach as the egg whites continue to cook. Do not flip; this is a sunny-side-up egg.

5. In case you need to skip the sunny-side-up egg for the kid's preference, you can also try them scrambled. I wanted it to look like the book but if you are cooking for kids, add a little food coloring to scrambled eggs to get the same overall theme.

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HOME

SIMPLE

Pleasures

story by Doug Smith

Oreo cookies are a treat that many have a favorite way to enjoy. Some twist the two chocolate cookies to expose the cream filling.

I like to dunk the intact cookie into a tall glass of milk. After years of eating this simple latenight snack, I have found that three is the perfect serving. Then three more and sometimes three more, ok, maybe just three more. You get the picture.

The Oreo is a staple in homes all around the world and with that, it has earned the title of Worlds’ Favorite Cookie. With regional and limited release flavors, the Biscuit Brand keeps sweet tooths around the world satisfied. As much as we know and love this little cookie, we know very little about its origin.

Back in the 1890s, decades before the Oreo was invented, two brothers, Jacob and Joseph Loose, opened a bakery together in Kansas City, Missouri. The Loose brothers' bakery was thriving, and Jacob, who had a knack for the business knew that he'd need to merge with more bakeries to grow the company. This is when American Biscuit and Manufacturing Company was born, which was the second-largest bakery at that time in the country.

Running a fast-paced giant bakery company was draining Jacob and after seven years, he was burnt out. With his health suffering, he moved to Europe to recover, and in his absence, Joseph took over as president. Joseph was looking to control the bakery market so he formed an even bigger biscuit company through more mergers. This was a trend at the time when monopolies for goods like oil, tobacco, and sugar ruled the markets. But Jacob vehemently disagreed and wrote letters from his sickbed letting his brother know. Unfortunately, from so far away there wasn't much he could do to stop Joseph. So while Jacob was convalescing, Joseph pushed the

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merger deal through and created the National Biscuit Company (today known as Nabisco).

Now the story takes a twist. Once recovered, Jacob decided to get back in the game, but not with the National Biscuit Company. Instead, he found a new partner and started a bakery from scratch called the Loose-Wiles Biscuit Company, using everything he had learned from the industry thus far. After 10 years, Loose-Wiles became the second largest bakery in the United States after Nabisco, and they had a winning cookie that consumers loved. It was called the Hydrox, and it had a familiar composition: two chocolate biscuits with vanilla creme in the center.

Then, Nabisco came out with a suspiciously similar cookie, called the Oreo.

Because the Oreo was priced cheaper and came off as a generic cookie, the Hydrox remained the favorite. Nabisco essentially produced the Oreo at a loss. For the years leading up to their deaths, each brother had their one victory: Jacob the Hydrox, and Joseph the bigger company. So you ask why the Oreo? There was this “passing fad” that most large corporations overlooked but the National Biscuit Company embraced. This fad was called television.

In the end, Hydrox looked like the knock-off generic cookie, even though it was the original. Oreo went on to become "milk's favorite cookie" and the bestselling cookie in the world.

Aunt Gale’s Dirt Cake Ingredients: • 1/2 cup butter, softened • 8 oz cream cheese, softened • 1 cup powdered sugar • 2 packages French Vanilla Pudding • 3 1/2 cup milk • 8 oz container of Cool Whip • 1 family size package Oreo cookies

Method: 1. Cream together butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar in a large bowl until just blended. Do not over-mix.

2. In a separate large bowl whisk together pudding mix, milk, and Cool Whip.

3. Add pudding mixture to the cream cheese mixture and mix until uniform.

4. Crush Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender.

5. Use a ladle to scoop about 1 to 1 1/4 cups pudding mix into the center of a trifle dish. Push to the edges with the back of a spoon.

6. Use a large spoon to cover the pudding with about 1/4 inch of Oreo crumbs.

7. Repeat layers until done, about 4 layers of each. Tap the final Oreo layer into the top of the dirt cake with the back of a spoon.

8. For best results, chill at least two hours before serving.

Get more from Doug Smith by following him on Facebook and Instagram at "Doug the Food Guy".

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

story and photos by Erin Daniel Whether you’re a three-year-old child or a 30-year-old adult, I think we can all agree that there’s something super fun and relaxing about a bubble bath. It’s the perfect remedy for almost anything life can throw your way! Have energetic kids who you need to wind down before bedtime? Stick them in a bubble bath. Had a hard day at the office and need a moment to yourself? Soak yourself into a bubble bath. Trying to find something to pass the time while staying socially distanced?

You guessed it – take a bubble bath! One surefire way to enhance this experience is to throw in a bath bomb!

This story is inspired by a very enthusiastic boy named Finley, whose love for bath bombs as a toddler encouraged his mother, Bridget, to dig deeper and create a product that was safe, yet fun for her son. As a toddler, Finley would beg for bath bombs in his nightly bath, but Bridget noticed that from time to time, he would swallow mouthfuls of his bathwater.

As a concerned mother, she often questioned what kind of harmful chemicals her son might be ingesting. She did some quick research from the company she was purchasing from and realized that the ingredients found in her son’s favorite bath bombs were far from clean. Rather than taking away Finley’s favorite part of the day, she took this opportunity to make him homemade bath bombs that were safe for him to use while being every bit as fun! She was determined to find a recipe that avoided harsh chemicals and artificial dyes. After some trial and error, she was able to create bath bombs that were made of skin-loving ingredients and they evolved into the products she sells today!

Finley, who’s now seven years old, has been promoted to the official product tester at Bubble by Bridget.

Incorporating natural ingredients such as beetroot or matcha powder for the colorants in her products has allowed Bridget to create eye-catching bath bombs without the use of harsh dyes.

While she doesn’t recommend eating them, she can confidentially say all

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Contact Bridget: www.bubblebybridget.com (843) 858-1402 bubblebybridget@gmail.com

of her products are safe, non-toxic, and edible, which means they’re in no way harmful if swallowed. Even the glitter on her products is 100% biodegradable, making her offerings sustainable, as well. Her fragrances are developed using all-natural essential oils and botanical blends to create her enticing scents, as well as providing beneficial moisturizers. Bridget’s personal favorite includes a mixture of apple blossom and rose, which offers a sweet, floral scent!

Bridget understands that life can get hectic and a relaxing soak in the tub isn’t feasible for everyone’s schedule. But no matter how chaotic life gets, she’s a firm believer that making time for self-care should never be sacrificed, so she introduced shower steamers! These fragrant cubes provide the perfect punch of aromatherapy for a busy lifestyle.

Last year, Bridget and her fiancé, Brad, expanded their business into Hearne Studios.

This home-based business allowed them the freedom to make their own molds using a 3D printer, transforming their bath bombs from a typical round sphere to all sorts of fun custom shapes and designs. Some of their favorite shapes include a mold resembling their pet pug, as well as one is shaped like crescent moon.

They love receiving custom orders from clients, so feel free to reach out with any requests!

that a They

Bubble by Bridget products can be found at Bridget’s booth most Saturday mornings at the City Center Farmers Market (200 Sanborn Street, Florence) or at her online Etsy shop!

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

IRISHMule

Ingredients • 2 ounces Irish whiskey • 6 ounces ginger beer or more!

• 1 ounce lime juice • lime slices, for garnish • mint sprigs, for garnish • ice cubes

Method Fill a copper mug (or other glass) with ice. Pour in whiskey and lime juice, top with ginger beer. Stir to mix, garnish with lime slices and mint sprig.

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