Her 2020

Learn about these lovely Colleton ladies!

A special publication from

Do you know an amazing Colleton County woman that deserves the spotlight?

We would love to hear from you! Email us at editor@lowcountry.com

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Whether you’re applying for the first time or returning to finish your degree, we offer affordable options to obtain your Associate Degree or one of 14 Bachelor Degrees without leaving our campus including:

Business Administration Elementary or Special Education RN-BSN Nursing Criminal Justice Information Science

STUDENT LIFE

Campus life offers various clubs and activities, including the Student Government Association, that organize events to unite the student body, allowing time to relax, get to know one another and have fun.

Basketball, baseball, softball, soccer ... between the USC Salkehatchie East and West campuses there’s always a sporting event to attend!

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HER | 2020

Helping run a hospital Marilyn Fryar is the executive assistant to the Colleton Medical Center’s chief executive officer.

For 30 years, she has been the major planner and operator behind the scenes.

Working with all of the different and unique departments, as well as personnel, in the hospital is an immense and timeconsuming responsibility.

“I have not accomplished anything on my own, but I give God the glory for all I have accomplished through Him: a successful work career, family achievements and an abundance of other things,” said Fryar.

Ever since high school, Fryar knew that she loved to organize, plan and execute, so her job allows her to do all of that and more. As she juggles calendars and numerous duties, she thrives on the variety of requirements, decisions and issues that crop up every day. “This is what I enjoy most about my job — there is something new every single day,” said Fryar. That has included entertaining doctors and nurses in the cafeteria by dancing with a security officer — she does what she can to keep up morale.

Marilyn Fryar

Fryar said that in her career and personal life, she has battled tough times and disappointments. “We all have obstacles in life at some time or another, but my faith has allowed me not to look at them as obstacles, but opportunities to ‘grow’ stronger in my faith. I often reflect back and all I can say is ‘But God’!” she said.

Having such a stressful career, Fryar feels that it is important to take time out. “If I could change any part of my life, I would probably ‘loosen’ up. My husband tells me all the time to just loosen up and not take everything so seriously,” said Fryar.

She is learning to do just that with her one daughter and three grandchildren. “We love to visit any Sandals Resort property and visit different cities, small and large. While I enjoy the atmosphere and close proximity to outdoor adventures of Colleton, I really enjoy traveling to other places,” she said.

Fryar plans to continue enjoying life when she retires which will be in June. “I plan to do what I do now (except work) but do more of it — travel to fun places, explore new restaurants, visit church family, take time with grandchildren and family, participate in fitness classes and enjoy the freedom to do whatever comes. I do these things now, but I will be able to do more. Spontaneity is good.”

HER | 2020

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HER | 2020

A voting machine

Angela Upchurch

Angela Upchurch works like a well-oiled machine ... a voting machine. As Director of Colleton County Voter Registration & Elections, she makes sure that the process runs smoothly and competently.

With 25,241 registered voters in Colleton County and 32 precincts, the director has to run the department with machine-like efficiency.

Born in Hartsville, Upchurch married Chip, her husband for over 32 years. Chip grew up in Walterboro, so they made their home here after they were married. The family moved away after the first seven years for employment opportunities, but returned about 10 years ago.

Upchurch began her challenging career as a volunteer at the Voter Registration office. Shortly thereafter, an assistant’s position became available; then a few years later, the director left, and Upchurch was hired as director. She has held that position for almost nine years.

For many individuals voting for the first time or using new voting machines, the process can be rather intimidating — but Upchurch is there to put them at ease. For some, visiting the main office is a treat because of her kindness and upbeat personality.

latest developments and procedures.

The election process is highly controlled and somewhat difficult. There are vast federal and state rules and regulations that must be adhered to and followed rigorously. Upchurch makes sure that happens. She is on top of the

Since she is so organized, it is frustrating when some voters aren’t prepared for election day. The staff works hard to prepare for each election, but voters have some responsibility for ensuring elections go smoothly as well. Voters should make sure they get registered by the deadline, that they update their address when they move, that they know where to vote, and that they know what to bring with them to the polls to vote.

When voters don’t do these things, delays are created at the polls and can sometimes prevent them from voting. According to Upchurch, the best website for answers to these and other questions is www.scvotes.org.

“The best part of my job is the feeling I have getting through a ‘successful’ election — watching the process unfold and come together and knowing that my team and I helped keep democracy strong. Everyone involved is so dedicated and wants this process to succeed. We are here to make sure that all eligible voters are able to cast their vote following the processes put in place. It is so satisfying!” said Upchurch.

In June of 2015, her positive outlook on life was severely tested when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After surgery and treatment, she has been cancer free now for four years. She still has to undergo routine checkups, but she is optimistic and grateful for her health and her family who have been so supportive.

Upchurch has two adult daughters living in Charleston, and one son in Columbia. She says that they are her greatest achievements. “They are the most caring, thoughtful and kindest people I know. Their sense of humor is amazing! We all have a great time together,” she said.

Other than spending time with her husband and children, her favorite past-times are gardening, pressure-washing everything and boating.

Upchurch says she would like travel more in the future. “I’ve always wanted to go to Italy to see the countryside and visit Rome and Vatican City,” she said. “But I don’t make long-term plans. If there is something I have learned in life, it is that no matter what I plan, God usually has something else in mind.”

HER | 2020

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let’s talk hair...

The 90s called! They’re sending styles to 2020.

The Blunt Collarbone Cut

The Cheekbone Bob The Pixie

Long Layers 10

Shoulder Brushing Curls HER | 2020

...and nails!

The newest nail trend solves the hardest manicure decision - what color?

Multi-color and mis-matched nails are in!

Accent nails were the first step into nail art, but now people are excited to go bigger and bolder.

Painting your nails different colors is a really fun way to change up your nail look and make it versatile. Instead of choosing one shade, gradient nails let you pick five! Stick with a color family, choose a seasonal theme, a rainbow pattern or go completely rogue! You can pick colors you’re comfortable with and still be trendy. If you usually paint your nails in neutral shades, try a gradient effect with nudes or pinks. For a bolder look, experiment with mixing and matching your favorite bright polishes.

What’s even easier? Companies like Color Street® provide DIY manicure options in the form of real nail polish strips that are instantly dry as soon as you apply them to your nail. Manicure and pedicure sets are available in solid colors, glitters, designs, french manicures - providing a salon look in less time and a fraction of the cost.

Jessie Deal, a local Color Street® stylist says, “Color Street® is the perfect solution for busy moms and working women who want to keep their nails looking great without having to worry about making time for the salon. When else would you be able to paint your nails at home in fun designs and instantly grab a load of laundry to fold ... bathe your kid ... anything!? I love that I am able to supplement my income from home doing something so fun! We have built a fun little Facebook community where I feel like my ‘customers’, some who were initially strangers, have become friends - all because of our love of these nail polish strips!”

If you’re interested in ordering or learning more about Color Street® reach out to Jessie on her Facebook page or join the VIP group for deals and fun giveaways (search Sparkle and Shine with Jessie). You can also order direct at www.colorstreet.com/sparkleandshinewithjessie.

HER | 2020

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Educating children Cordelia Jenkins

Living 43 years in the same place allows a person to get to know just about everyone. Cordelia Jenkins, PhD, feels like she does.

“I fondly remember the great, comforting, secure feeling of growing up in a small community in Smoaks ( Johnsville Community),” said Jenkins. “We all attended school together, church together and played in the community together, whether it was at the community center or at individuals’ homes. During my young adult years, I enjoyed playing in the Rice Festival Ladies Softball Tournaments at the Recreation Center. I lived away from Colleton County when I attended the College of Charleston for five years, but I had to come back,” Jenkins said.

For 26 years she has been an educator, and although she is single and has no children, she has had plenty of practice with her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, family and friends.

Jenkins is currently the director of student services for Colleton County School District. “I have been encouraged, motivated and surrounded by a family of leaders and educators. I always wanted to contribute my gift of service to my community in building leadership capacity in individuals,” said Jenkins.

One capstone in her career was when Bells Elementary School obtained an A Rating under the ESEA Federal Accountability System during the 2011-2012 school year. “I am a committed educator and strongly believe that all children deserve an opportunity to learn. Equally, I feel that we are responsible to ensure that children achieve their highest potential,” she added.

Jenkins says that the best part of her job is offering her gift of service to internal and external stakeholders. “I love people. I love to help people. I love to help individuals conquer and exceed their life and career goals,” she said. “Philippians 2:4, says ‘Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.’ Helping others is a part of my ministry,” she added.

Besides loving her work, Jenkins takes pleasure in strengthening her relationship with God, spending time with her family and traveling.

“During my travels, I engage myself in new learning experiences that I use in my career. My favorite vacation place is Nassau, Bahamas,” said Jenkins.

Life hasn’t always been easy for Jenkins, but she is happy with what she has accomplished. “I have encountered and overcome numerous obstacles in my life. I conquered the challenge of obtaining my doctor of philosophy degree in education with an emphasis in curriculum and instruction in March 2017, and that was difficult,” Jenkins said.

In the future when she retires, she plans on moving forward. Her daily goals are to procrastinate less and pray more in order to accomplish all of her personal and professional goals in a timely manner. She also plans to continue to offer her gift of service to her family, friends, community, church, school and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. She takes pride in the community services that are rendered with her sorority sisters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. “I believe that all life experiences build us into the individuals that God wants us to be,” said Jenkins. “And that’s all I want to be.”

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HER | 2020

“Philippians 2:4, says ‘Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.’ Helping others is a part of my ministry.”

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HER | 2020

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HER | 2020

A life of purpose

Deadgrea C. Williams Sadler

If you work for Colleton County, then you know Deadgrea C. Williams Sadler. But perhaps you know her by the moniker “Dee.” With a degree in business and accounting, Dee Sadler started with Colleton County government 27 years ago as an accounts payable/payroll clerk. Across the course of time, she transitioned into her current position as human resource director.

Funny, endearing and always smiling, Dee is well known in the community and loved by many.

Growing up in Neyles, she later married an Army man and found herself living on military bases for 13 years in Ft. Knox, Ky; Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; and Ft. Stewart, Ga. She and her husband divorced but have three children: Arthur (AJ) M., Richard Jerro, and Kayla LeAundra Ashlei. She returned to Colleton County and now she is the proud grandmother Harper Grace and Richard Zane.

Being a single mother has its own set of trials, but Sadler made it work. “My greatest achievement, with much help from my family, is raising my three wonderful children.

Anyone with children knows that the process has its challenges; but despite the challenges, they have all matured into fabulous, responsible young adults and continue to make me proud every day,” said Sadler.

“I would change nothing in my past life; everything that I have experienced to date has contributed to making me the person that I am today. I believe that in all things, good and bad, there is a purpose.”

- Dee Sadler

Most people don’t know that Dee is a gifted gospel singer. When she is not helping the numerous Colleton County employees, Sadler sings with the many choirs of Aimwell Presbyterian Church. She loves music, reading and spending time with her family.

Growing up in Neyles and being with her very large family, she grew up with a love of people, especially family. “I really enjoyed long conversations with the matriarchs of my family; hearing about the ‘good old days’ as they would call it and the history of my community. That is why I love my job. The best part of my work is the people. I enjoy their many different personalities,” said Sadler.

The worst part of her job she says is dealing with an employee who is experiencing an issue that, despite all her efforts, she is unable to assist to their satisfaction. “I really want to help everyone,” she said.

But Sadler said that those obstacles, whether in her job or private life, only made her stronger.

“I would change nothing in my past life; everything that I have experienced to date has contributed to making me the person that I am today. I believe that in all things, good and bad, there is a purpose,” said Sadler.

As far as her future goes, she says that Lord willing, she plans to retire one day, rest a little, travel a little and most especially enjoy spending quality time with her family. But employees in Colleton County know that it won’t be easy for anyone to fill Dee Sadler’s shoes when that time comes.

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HER | 2020

a taste of summer

(BPT) - Nothing says “summer” quite like The Original Margarita.

And for the aspiring mixologist to the cocktail newbie, extra time at home is perfect for mastering The Margarita. There is nothing easier than shaking up this refreshing cocktail, in its original form or in one of its many delightful variations.

Here are some fun facts about The Margarita to help inspire your next happy hour with friends - virtual or otherwise:

1. It’s the most popular cocktail in America Did you know that The Margarita is America’s favorite cocktail?

Since Nielsen first started conducting surveys to discover bargoers’ favorite drinks in 2016, The Margarita has been the number one pick.

In 2019 The Margarita edged out The Martini, The Old-Fashioned, The Mimosa and The Moscow Mule for the coveted first-place spot.

It’s no surprise now that margaritas are a popular happy hour cocktail, so make sure to share your favorite Margarita recipe with your virtual happy hour pals for toasting together.

2. The origin of The Original Margarita The Original Margarita was created when Dallas socialite Margarita Sames mixed her two favorite spirits, Cointreau and tequila, together with lime juice while she was vacationing in Acapulco back in 1948.

3. All you need are three ingredients The original recipe is elegant and simple. It’s easy to make, even for beginners - no fancy ingredients required.

Ingredients: 1 ounce Cointreau 2 ounces blanco tequila 1 ounce fresh lime juice

HER | 2020

4. It’s a highly customizable cocktail

The Original Margarita is a classic on its own - the recipe has stood the test of over 70 years’ time. However, it’s very easy to customize to your tastes or ingredients. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or craving a classic there is a Margarita for everyone. * Herbal- Add fresh lemon and basil for The Lemon Basil Margarita that tastes straight out of the garden. The balance of citrus and herbs gives this drink a light yet juicy flavor. * Spicy -The Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita combines the coolness of cucumber with a spicy burst of jalapeno for just the right amount of kick.

Experiment with the amount of jalapeno to suit your own taste. * Tangy - Use slices of fresh ginger and fresh mint leaves for a unique flavor combination. The spice of ginger gives The Ginger Mint Margarita a tantalizing bite that is aromatically balanced by the refreshing mint. * Fruity - Use seasonal, colorful fruit to shake up a Margarita that is beautiful, bright and juicy. A few berries work great.

5. It’s the salt that makes it sweet Why the salt-rimmed glass? Salt is actually present on The Margarita glass to bring out the sweet and sour flavors of the drink. Just a pinch of salt around the rim is needed to enhance the flavors in this classic, refreshing cocktail.

To find dozens of recipes for creative Margaritas and other iconic cocktails, visit Cointreau. com/Cocktails or follow us on Instagram @Cointreau_US.

Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker and add ice.

Shake and strain into a salt-rimmed rocks glass.

Garnish with a lime wheel.

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Feeding Colleton Ellen Adele Fitch — 51 years young — loves kids and food.

That’s a good thing, since she has been feeding Colleton County school children for years.

In 1988, Lewis and Libby Wade moved here from Ladson, bringing their daughter Ellen with them. She eventually married Edward Fitch, who has been her husband for 32 years.

As director of student nutrition for the Colleton County School District, Fitch loves working with the children at the

Ellen Adele Fitch schools and her incredible staff. During the Covid-19 crisis, her workers came together to serve and help deliver 8,000 meals to kids daily. She wanted to be sure that her school children were still fed and given proper nutrition during the quarantine.

“In our field, we have to be prepared for anything and everything. The budget we have to work with, and dealing with the misconceptions people have about how school food service works, are sources of frustration sometimes. But we are always adaptable and prepared, so we stepped up during Covid-19,” said Fitch.

Her department had to change what they would normally order to make sure they had grab-and-go, pre-packaged items to put in bags to pack up and pass out to children, while still meeting all regulations that pertain to vegetable subgroups, fruit offerings, milk choices and grain and meat/meat alternate offerings. “This was a tremendous challenge, but we met it while serving over 8,000 meals a day,” Fitch stated.

Her organizational skills are so exceptional that she was featured on a recent Educational Television (ETV) segment, where she showed the state the logistics in preparing meals for Colleton’s children. She also gave credit to her assistants and citizens of the county.

Fitch is very proud of how residents come together in times like Covid-19 and major storms when shelters are opened to help everyone in Colleton and nearby communities with food and shelter. “During one of our sheltering events, we lost power at the middle school shelter a few years back, and we had to serve self-heating MRE’s or ‘meals ready to eat.’ Most of the evacuees did not know how to heat them in the containers, so my sons and my husband went around to each table and helped the evacuees open and heat their meal. I teared up a little watching my family step in and be so kind and helpful to each of our evacuees that night, during the worst of the storm.

“My family is always there with me helping, and that year my in-laws came and stayed with us in the shelter and spent some quality time with us while I worked, and they spent time with their great-grandchildren as well,” said Fitch. This was the last time they had a chance to do that, since they both passed away the next year. They watched her work in her element, and Fitch says she knew they were proud of what she was doing, as well as her entire family. “That was a blessing for them and also me and my family. We just did not realize it at the time. God always knows,” stated Fitch.

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HER | 2020

“My favorite place is Disney with my family, and anywhere else we can travel together.”

Working full-time serving meals to children, she certainly knows her way around an industrial kitchen and loves her work. “I started as a substitute in food service when my first son began school so I could be close to my children while earning some money and staying busy. But then it became my passion to feed the children and spend time with them, so I went full time,” said Fitch. She has been doing that for over 20 years.

Her love of children is especially seen in her devotion to her three sons, two daughters in-law, one daughter in-law and six grandchildren (three girls and three boys.) “My favorite place is Disney with my family, and anywhere else we can travel together,” said Fitch.

Family time and life in general have always been very important to Fitch. But recently, it has become even more so.

“I was diagnosed last August with Vulvar cancer, and I had to undergo several months of treatments. I did not discuss this too much, because I did not want to give it any more power over my life. I had to go to Charleston every day from September until the end of November for treatments. I took two hours off work every morning so I could go and get my treatments for the first five weeks, and then for the second half of my treatments, I would take two hours off in the morning for treatments. Then I would work four hours and take another two hours off in the afternoon. Unfortunately, I had to take two full days off the last week of treatments when it became too uncomfortable, but I was blessed to make it through all of that with the support of my family, closest of friends, my department and the district. I like to call it a little hurdle that I had to jump over,” Fitch said.

She had her first three-month checkup and was given the all clear. She has to go back every three months now, but she says God will take care of her, and whatever His will is, she will accept it. “I am confident in my faith, and I know I will be fine, no matter what,” she said.

Fitch said that she does have regrets about things she may have said or done to others in times of hurt and anger, but she is human and is grateful for God’s grace. “My Savior died on the cross to provide me all the grace, mercy and forgiveness that only He can provide, because He knew I would not be perfect. So with that I would say, with my regrets, comes the understanding that I would not be the person I am today without the lessons I have learned from those mistakes or regrets, as well as the forgiveness that brought me through each one of them,” said Fitch.

“My greatest achievement is my relationship with my Lord and Savior. Then it would be my marriage and family, and then my career. I know some would say my career and my degrees, but I take a great deal of pride in my family and how close we are and how we are always there for each other. I am proud of my career accomplishments, but I also realize I could not do any of this without my Lord and Savior, and a strong team and the support of my family,” she added.

Fitch has no plans to retire anytime soon; she says she really wouldn’t know what to do with herself if she didn’t have her work. But plans way into the future consist of spending time with grandkids and traveling with “Ed,” her best friend and husband.

“I do not know what God has planned for my life, but whatever it is, I will be ready.”

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take charge of your mental health (BPT) - Our nation is sharing in an experience with the COVID-19 crisis that will serve to reshape the future of our communities, our work, our families, and each and every individual. With so much attention focused on the diagnosis and treatment related to the virus, we recognize that those feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, and even substance use may impact substantially more of us than a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Nearly half of American adults report that the COVID-19 crisis has affected their mental health, according to recent polling by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Meanwhile, Mental Health America's (MHA) free, anonymous screening tools have seen a 70% increase in individuals taking their anxiety screen, and a 64% increase in the number of people taking their depression screen between January and April of this year.

During this public health emergency, it is important to take care of ourselves, support one other and spread the message that "you are not alone."

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is partnering with Anthem Inc., one of the nation's largest health benefits companies, on a month-long campaign focused on reminding all of us that "You Are Not Alone." Together, NAMI and Anthem, Inc. are focused on the power and necessity of maintaining social connections and well-being during a time when many are physically distanced from each other.

As NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison, Jr. shared, "Especially during this time of isolation, uncertainty and tragedy, it is vital that no one feels alone in their mental health journey."

He continued, "The COVID-19 crisis not only shines a spotlight on our need for social connectedness, but also our need for real mental health resources. To support individuals during this crisis, NAMI is raising awareness to change our fragmented mental health system into one that serves everyone, so people can get the care they need."

"Caring for ourselves - physically and emotionally - is critical to improving lives and communities," said Dr. Prakash Patel, executive vice president and president of Anthem, Inc.'s Diversified Business Group.

"During this challenging public health crisis, it's important to know there are resources out there, whether through your employer, healthcare provider or community organizations, to help us get through this difficult time. Taking care of our mental health is just as important as our physical health. This month is a great reminder to take care of ourselves, as well as each other."

Sharing your personal experience engages others and fosters acceptance and awareness around mental health, and encourages others to take the steps to access treatment and support during difficult times.

You are not alone.

For more information, visit www.nami.org.

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Care for yourself. Recognize the importance of “me time� and carve out a part of each day to do something that rejuvenates yourself - listen to a podcast, do yoga, connect with a friend, or just go outside for a breath of fresh air.

Seek help if you need it. Talking to a friend or family member is a good start, but professional mental health services may also be necessary. The earlier people seek help, the better their results. While going to see someone in person may not be possible, telehealth offers a way to talk to a professional while practicing physical distancing. If you are thinking about harming yourself, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which can provide free and confidential emotional support in times of crisis.

Explore community resources. There are many valuable and often underutilized resources available. These include Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), which are offered by many employers and include free therapy sessions and telehealth, as well as digital resources, like the mental health resource site, Psych Hub. And you can contact NAMI for nationwide peer-support and resource referrals, by phone (800-950-NAMI) or email (info@nami.org).

Support one another. Caring for others is one way to care for yourself. Call an older adult who may be experiencing loneliness, text a friend who’s working long hours, or join your family or friends for a video dinner. A simple gesture can go a long way for you and for them.

Talk about it. Let people know that they are not alone.

Your experience matters. Taking time for yourself? Share your #MeMinutes, whether on social media, using the hashtag, or with others in your community. Sharing your own self-care routine may encourage others to care for themselves, too.

HER | 2020

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A Healing Heart Walterboro Family Practice has been a primary health care facility providing general medical assistance for most Colleton residents for many years.

While all of the physicians are exceptional, one stands out on her own: Kim Rencken.

Funny and affectionate, her bubbling, effervescent personality brightens the examination room the moment she enters it. She turns a visit to the doctor into a meeting with an old friend.

Living in a small town, most residents had never heard of a nurse practitioner until Rencken made an appearance. With 23 years of experience under her belt, she is not only proficient in her profession, she is magnificent.

Born in Columbia, Rencken’s parents resided there while her father was in law school. The family moved to Walterboro, her mother’s hometown, when she was six weeks old. Her father, Lee Ray Moody, was a well-known attorney, having practiced law in Walterboro from 1967-1999.

A long family history in medicine, and so much exposure to it as a child, led her to her career. “I love the sciences,” said Rencken. “I felt called to help others feel better and lead healthy lives.”

Rencken is dually certified as a family nurse practitioner and as a pediatric primary care nurse practitioner through American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. This certification means that she has advanced practice as a registered nurse and mid-level practitioner.

With a master of science in nursing, she is trained to assess patient needs, order and interpret diagnostic and laboratory tests, diagnose disease, formulate and prescribe treatment. The only thing she can’t do is perform surgery.

Kim Rencken

“The best part of my job is getting to know my patients and their families. As a health care provider, I get to know people at their happiest times and their most vulnerable times. To be in a position to listen and provide assistance is very fulfilling,” said Rencken. The only negative part, she said, is all the paperwork involved in the health care profession.

“Even with that, my biggest professional achievement is that of being honored by people putting their trust in me to treat them and their

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“I share my greatest personal achievement with my husband, and that is raising two independent, driven, compassionate Christian daughters.”

- Kim Rencken

loved ones. Someone trusting you with their health and well-being (and especially their children’s) is something that I take very seriously,” she said.

At 52, Rencken (who looks ridiculously younger than that) has been married to Gunther for 14 years.

Gunther, whom Rencken calls “her hero and the man of her dreams,” works in the same office and is originally from South Africa where the family frequently visits. They share two children: Lee, 22, who is a nursing student at USCB and has won awards for body building; and Lauren, 20, who is a pre-vet student at Clemson.

“I share my greatest personal achievement with my husband, and that is raising two independent, driven, compassionate Christian daughters,” said Rencken.

Although she has experienced heartbreak and obstacles in her life, Rencken has always remained upbeat and optimistic. She doesn’t dwell on the negatives. “I have been truly blessed in life with good health and strong family support, and I am truly grateful,” Rencken said.

Not too long ago, the Renckens, in one of their many travels, visited the North Carolina mountains. “While I have always been an Edisto girl, my husband and I recently have discovered a love for the mountains. We love to travel and adventure just about anywhere because making family memories as we discover new places and have new experiences is priceless,” she said. “But the mountains are so special and beautiful.”

Rencken is constantly busy and in high demand by patients at the practice. She has developed a fiercely devoted patient list and goes out of her way to accommodate everyone who needs her. Even while maintaining such a heavy patient load, she still makes time to sit and talk with each person as an individual, really listening to them. That characteristic has made her a favorite of many people.

Although the thought of her retiring is abhorrent to her patients and hopefully a long time away, Rencken does have plans.

“When I retire, I plan to travel and adventure with my amazing husband, spend quality time with friends and family, and maybe spoil some grands, even though I don’t have any yet,” she said. “But really, I just want to kick up my heels and play!”

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6 eclectic new home (BPT) - The year is already off to a stylish start, but there are plenty more trends that will be coming into focus in the coming months.

Designers around the country are exploring a dynamic mix of patterns and unexpected colors, plus creative new approaches to flooring, accents and lighting.

Here are the go-to trends making a splash in design studios and homes this summer.

Florals are blossoming Just in time for summer, floral designs are bringing walls and furnishings to life. Floral wallpaper is coming back in a big way, turning rooms into virtual gardens. But not to worry - the latest designs are not your grandmother’s wallpaper. Intriguing, modern and sophisticated floral designs in vibrant color choices are available to suit any taste.

Biophilic design Another great trend for summer combines people’s passions for naturally occurring aesthetics and nature, often brought to life through indoor gardens, small trees or “living walls.” These design statements allow plants and other aspects of nature to become a visual focus in any home.

It is also inspired by natural materials like wood and stone, earth tones and natural colors, and organic shapes. These elements are showcased throughout the home, including in wooden architectural beams, stone-based accent pieces and naturally colored accent walls. Yesterday’s linear furniture designs are being replaced by softer, curvier shapes that mimic forms in nature.

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Naturalistic flooring Designers and homeowners alike are making a statement in flooring that combines intriguing design with a natural flair, such as geometrically patterned flooring created from naturally beautiful hardwood.

“Patterned flooring is beginning to dominate today’s interior designs,” says Katie Allen, design and trend director at Lumber Liquidators Flooring. “It can be used in a wide variety of spaces to add texture and character to any room.”

For example, it is easier than ever to create a warm, visually exciting look in almost any home with a chevron pattern using Bellawood Engineered Hardwood Flooring from Lumber Liquidators. Each patterned plank is arranged in a custom zigzag pattern, meaning homeowners won’t be wasting time installing individually angled boards.

The handcrafted distressing of the wood also reveals the natural grain and rich brown hues, appealing to homeowners wanting a natural look.

Color your world Along with the emphasis on nature-based color palettes comes a shift away from the neutral tones that have become popular over the last couple of years. Jewel tones like deep blues, a variety of green hues and even subtle pinks are seeing a comeback for walls, rugs, cabinets and furnishings.

Designers are often choosing strongly contrasting colors to make visually bold statements, like pink against blue, rich blue against a lighter green or any color paired with black or white.

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Mix and match Unusual juxtapositions of color are being matched by contrasting textures and materials. Architects and designers are getting creative with the interplay of materials such as marbles against woods, plus geometric patterns created by tiles used for accent walls or as a backsplash.

Fiber art - like handcrafted rugs, throw pillows, blankets and wall hangings - is popular again, and will help make any room pop.

Rattan and cane furniture also provide similar variety in terms of texture, color and pattern.

Brighten it up Lighting is no longer just a way to illuminate your space, but a bold detail to add visual excitement to any room. Champagne gold lighting fixtures are one fun trend that really stands out, seen in every room from living and dining rooms to kitchens and baths.

Some of this summer’s overall trends can easily be brought to life through lighting choices, from wicker or caned pendant lamps to rounder, more organically shaped lighting fixtures.

Let your own personality and design sensibility shine through when decorating your living spaces, using these trends as inspiration.

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She’s a long way from home Maria Concepción DeSantiago was born in Huejúcar, Jalisco, Mexico. A reigning beauty queen for her village, she met Odilon DeSantiago, married, and found herself moving to the United States. She knew some English, but it was a culture shock to find herself residing in Chicago, Ill. “Leaving my family and my hometown in Mexico to relocate to the big city of Chicago, Ill., in a different country with a different language was a real challenge for me,” said DeSantiago.

To help with keep the family ties strong, every year the DeSantiago family would pack and drive over 3,500 miles to her hometown and back, visiting family along the way.

While living in Chicago, her husband was employed by FloraLife Inc., which eventually relocated to Colleton County. After 11 years of living in the windy city, Odilon and Maria Concepción and their three daughters moved to Walterboro. Later, their youngest daughter was born here in Colleton.

With the Lowcountry’s vast farmland, migrants and farm workers from Hispanic countries, they found employment in Colleton County on local farms and plantations. They began sending their children to the local public schools. With very few resources to help these children assimilate and learn English, assistance was found in the guise of lovely, quiet, softspoken Maria Concepción. She began working as support staff for the English as a Second or Foreign Language (ESOL) Department in Colleton County School District.

Maria Concepción DeSantiago

She has been there for 20 years.

“When I was a child, I wanted to be a scientist, but God had a different plan for me. As an educator, I am able to motivate not only my daughters, but my students as well, to be what they want to be: engineers, lawyers, fashion designers, doctors, teachers, etc. Through my daughters and students, I can see my own career aspirations realized,” said DeSantiago.

Going back to school as an adult was challenging, she said, because it’s not the same as attending as a young adult. But she learned that if she put her mind to it and prepared, her goals could be achieved. And now she works for the school system.

“I love everything I do and am very blessed that I get to work doing this job; every opportunity is a learning experience. God is wonderful, I love Him. Without Him nothing would be possible,” said DeSantiago.

The best part of her job, she said, is getting to help students and parents realize that education is the key to success in life and a means to help others in the world.

And Maria is certainly known for being a helper to many people.

An avid gardener, she often shares the bounty from her gardens with neighbors. Her homemade tamales are the best in the country.

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She has been married for 39 years to her husband, Odilon, and lived 29 of those years in Colleton County. She and her husband have four beautiful and highly successful daughters: Gisela, Dahlia, Melissa and Alondra; and one granddaughter Camila BañuelosDeSantiago.

“I have much to be grateful for in my life. My greatest accomplishments are first, getting to know God and all the marvelous things He does for me and my family. The second is seeing my four daughters succeed in academics as well as being good human beings. And the third, of course, is having our granddaughter! She is a blessing to our family,” said DeSantiago.

“My favorite memories of living in Colleton have been seeing my daughters grow physically and academically, with great values and a desire to improve the world,” said DeSantiago.

When she retires, she said she would like, God willing, to spend more time with her granddaughter, her daughters and her family in her hometown in Mexico. She also plans to be more active in her church, so that others can learn about the wonders that God has to offer in life.

Even if she could go back in time and change something in her life, she would change nothing. “In Spanish we say, ‘Los tiempos de Dios son tiempos perfectos,’ which means God’s times are perfect times and everything that has happened in my life is because my God wanted it that way. And He has blessed me very much,” she said.

“My message and hope for everyone in the world is to be happy.

Life is very short and we should live it in the best way possible,” she said.

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