On behalf of The Item staff, I’d like to officially welcome you to the Summer Issue of Lakeside Magazine and the grand reveal of the more than 200 Best of Clarendon 2026 winners.
Throughout this magazine, you’ll find many of the things you’ve come to expect from Lakeside - local stories about local people and happenings around Clarendon County and Lake Marion. You’ll also find more than 200 winners across business and industry, public service, education and more. These winners have been chosen by Item readers casting more than 50,000 votes celebrating Clarendon County businesses, people and places. Winners are your neighbors and your friends.
Use this magazine and our winners’ website at theitem.com/bestofclarendon throughout your life. Find an accountant, a hair stylist or place to take the kids. Promote your favorites by using #BestOfClarendon on social media.
Being named Best of Clarendon is a celebration of everything going right in our community and region. At The Item, it’s our honor to promote these valuable local people, businesses and organizations, and it’s been our privilege to serve Clarendon County and the Sumter region for more than 130 years. Congratulations to all of our winners, and we hope you enjoy the pages to come.
Best regards,
Vince Johnson Publisher, The Sumter Item
what’s inside
FEATURE STORIES
See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at www.TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.
2 - 40
200+ winners revealed inside
Find the best places to shop, visit and support local in Clarendon County.
41 Gullah Geechee culture and food The story and family behind Gullah Gullah Fish in Manning.
56 McLeod Health Clarendon leader brings passion for rural communities to role
Scott Adams named McLeod Health Clarendon’s CEO after a 25-year career with the system provider.
Simpson Hardware and Sports – Thankful for over 75 years of support
from our loyal customers in Manning, Sumter, and Lake City!
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods is honored to be recognized again in this year’s Best of Clarendon competition. This year, we were voted Best Hardware Store, Best Guns and Firearms Dealer, Best Sporting Goods Store, Best Men’s Clothing Store, Best Fishing Store, Best Paint Store and Best Fitness Store. As a third-generation, family-owned local business, these awards mean a great deal to us. In the short history of the Best of Clarendon competition, Simpson Hardware has been fortunate to receive recognition in several categories, including Hardware, Paint, Sporting Goods, Guns/Firearms, Fishing, Men’s Clothing and Fitness. We have also been recognized over the years as Best Locally Owned Business, Best Shoes and Best Propane in Sumter.
Any success we have had is because of our loyal customers and the helpful associates who make Simpson what it is. We are especially grateful for the continued support of our communities as we carry forward the values and legacy that have shaped Simpson Hardware for generations.
Simpson Hardware Co. was founded in 1951 by the late Carl Simpson Jr. with the purchase of a store in Camden. Several years later, he moved to Sumter and purchased Boyle Hardware. That store opened under the Simpson Hardware name on Liberty Street in 1961 and became the first ACE Hardware store in
South Carolina. In 1964, a second location opened at Palmetto Plaza on Guignard Drive under the guidance of Carl Simpson III. That store grew quickly and became well-known for sporting goods and lawn and garden.
Today, Simpson has grown to five stores and 180 associates in Sumter, Manning and Lake City. Our locations include Wesmark Boulevard, Pinewood Road and North Guignard Drive in Sumter, North Brooks Street in Manning and North Church Street in Lake City.
Through the years, Simpson has served our communities through hurricanes, floods, ice storms, a pandemic and plenty of changing trends. We continue to focus on legendary customer service, offering something for everyone and staying authentically local.
We are also excited to share plans to expand the selection of clothing and footwear at our Manning location, bringing in more of the top brands you know and love by mid-to late summer 2026. Across our stores, we are proud to offer products for fishing, hunting, sporting goods, grilling, lawn care, clothing, footwear, gifts, sunglasses, hardware, paint and more. Thank you for supporting Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods. We invite you to visit any of our familyowned local stores.
Shoot for the Moon Academy Childcare Center named Best of the Best in 2026 Clarendon and Sumter contests
We are thrilled that Shoot for the Moon Academy has been voted Best Childcare Center in both Sumter and Clarendon counties’ 2026 Best Of contests.
Sherrie Ross-Mayes, owner and executive director, has been voted Best of Boss in Sumter two years in a row, and Beatrice Seymore won Best Boss in Best of Clarendon this year. Shoot for the Moon Academy is being recognized for making a huge impact in Sumter and Clarendon counties, with multiple locations to serve both counties' child care and development needs.
Sherrie’s vision has always been to provide the best care facilities for children.
We believe being voted the best reflects our deep commitment to providing exceptional care for the children of our community. We strive to create an environment that fosters growth, learning and fun, ensuring every child who walks through our doors has the best experience possible.
Our educational approach is grounded in South Carolina State Standards, offering a structured curriculum that supports the developmental needs of children of all ages. We understand the importance of a strong educational foundation, which is why we focus on providing engaging learning experiences that stimulate curiosity and creativity. From toddlers to school-age children, we tailor our programs to meet the unique needs of each child.
We are particularly proud of our achievements in the community as we continue to serve Sumter and Clarendon in
ways that go beyond just childcare. Shoot for the Moon Academy #9 summer camp was named Best Summer Camp in Sumter! In addition to being recognized as Best New Business, our sister center, Kids Academy, earned the title of Best Afterschool Care. These awards reflect our dedication to providing top-tier services that benefit children and families year-round.
One of the highlights of our program is our commitment to homework help and field trips. We understand the importance of academic support, so we offer dedicated homework help to ensure each child stays on track. Additionally, our field trips give children the chance to explore the community, learning outside the classroom in real-world environments.
Behind the success of Shoot for the Moon Academy is Sherrie Ross-Mayes, our passionate owner who was honored as Best Boss. With over 150 dedicated employees, Sherrie leads a team that cares for more than 1,000 children across South Carolina. Her leadership, commitment to excellence and vision for providing the best possible care have been key to our success.
At Shoot for the Moon Academy, we are more than a daycare — we are a trusted partner in the Clarendon and Sumter communities. Shoot for the Moon Academy provides financial support to help strengthen local schools, ensuring every student has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. We look forward to serving families for many years to come. Thank you for your support as we grow, learn and strive for excellence!
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For our core products of internet, wireless, phone and security, we are continuously making upgrades to offer the latest in cutting-edge technology. We have continued to invest in fiber, and the plan is to have all cooperative members equipped with it by the end of the year. This will provide the infrastructure to offer every member the fastest plans in the FTC arsenal.
For the wireless network, the upgrade to 5G, and in some of the most heavily trafficked areas 5G+, remains a major focus. These improvements, along with added Spectrum, will make FTC’s coverage even more robust.
For FTC IT Solutions, the experts there are constantly seeking the best ways to serve clients, including the best methods to protect customers from cyberattacks. If you are a business in need of IT services, please call (888) 218-5050 or visit ftc.net/business/services/itsolutions.
In closing, we want to again express our gratitude for the awards and for allowing us to serve you.
Ellen's Nails is thankful to the community for its continued support
Ellen and her mother, of Vietnamese descent, decided to embark on a small nail salon in Manning, established in 1997. For 16 years, the business ran as a walk-in-only salon with the help of multiple nail techs along the way, including her sister Lynda. However, in 2013, with the loss of her mother, Ellen had to create a new way to run her business by taking appointments only.
Eventually, the business grew and continues to be successful. Ellen’s Nails is celebrating its 29th year and offers simple nail services such as full sets, fill-ins, manicures, pedicures and cute nail designs.
You can view its page on Google and book an appointment by simply calling the salon at (803) 435-9001.
We are an appointment-based salon.
Book your appointment today
(803) 435-9001 • 8 First Ave., Manning, SC
I would like to thank all of those who took the time to vote every day for my little nail salon.
Without the love, loyalty and support from my clients, family and friends Ellen’s Nails would not be where it is today.
I am celebrating my 29th year in business. I hope to continue serving you and yours for many
Auto & Transportation
Aftermarket Auto Repair
Walker Tire
Auto Body Shop
East Clarendon
Collision Repair
Auto Parts
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
Towing Service
Taylor Made Towing
Used Car Dealership
Prothro Chevrolet GMC
Window Tinting
Eric Oliver
Precision Tint and Car Care
Dance Studio
Dance Wells
Day Spa
East Boyce Salon
Dry Cleaners
City Laundry & Cleaners
CARQUEST Auto Parts
Boat Dealership
Meares Marine LLC
Boat Landing
Randolph's Landing
Car & Truck Accessories
CARQUEST Auto Parts
Car Audio & Electronics
AutoZone
Car Salesperson
Alton “Scooter” Goodwin
Santee Automotive
Dealership Service Dept.
Santee Automotive
Golf Carts
S-N-Tee's Golf Car
New Car Dealership
Santee Automotive
Oil Change
Ridgecrest Tires
Rims / Wheels Store
Ridgecrest Tires
Business
Adult Day Center
Branco Adult Day Care Center
Air Purification Company
1st Choice Quality Heating
Air Plumbing
Auction Company
Odom Auction Co.
Fitness Center / Gym
Anytime Fitness
Floral Company
The Flower Shoppe of Manning
Funeral Home
Stephens Funeral Home
Golf Course
The Players Course at Wyboo
Barber Shop
Royalty Cuts
Barbershop
Car Wash
Weeks Detail Express
Carpet / Flooring
Cleaners
C & N Cleaning Services
Child Care Center
Shoot for the Moon
Academy - Manning
Commercial Real Estate Company
ResComm Management LLC
Hair Salon
The Studio Salon
Andrea Killman
Hotel/Lodging
Palmetto Shores RV Resort
Insurance Company
New York Life
Internet Service Provider
FTC
IT Company
FTC IT Solutions
Lumber Company
Lowe’s
COFFEY AND MCKENZIE, PA.
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A. remains dedicated to serving community
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A. would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the people of Clarendon County for honoring our firm as the Best of Clarendon County in the areas of Personal Injury, Real Estate, Civil Litigation, Family Law and Criminal Defense for 2026. We are truly humbled by your trust, confidence and continued support.
For 58 years, our firm has been committed to providing dedicated, compassionate and effective legal representation to the residents of Clarendon County and the surrounding communities. To be recognized by the very people we are privileged to serve is one of the highest honors we could receive. This recognition reflects not only the hard work of our attorneys and staff, but also the loyalty and support of our clients and community members who continue to place their faith in our firm.
Attorneys Billy Coffey, Steve McKenzie and Joe Coffey, along with the entire staff of Coffey & McKenzie, P.A., are deeply appreciative of this recognition. Every member of our team works diligently to ensure that each client receives the personal attention, professionalism and quality representation they deserve. Whether assisting families through difficult times, helping individuals recover after injuries, guiding clients through
real estate transactions or defending our clients in litigation, we remain dedicated to serving our community with integrity and commitment.
Clarendon County is more than just the place where we practice law — it is our home. We live here with you and are not only your attorneys, but your neighbors as well. We value the relationships we have built throughout the community and are grateful for the opportunity to continue serving generations of families and businesses across the area. Your support motivates us to continue striving for excellence in all that we do.
We would also like to thank our clients, friends and supporters for recommending our firm and standing beside us throughout these past 58 years. Your confidence in our abilities means more than words can express. We recognize that when you choose an attorney, you are placing great trust in that decision, and we do not take that responsibility lightly.
From all of us at Coffey & McKenzie, P.A., thank you again for your continued support and for voting us the Best of Clarendon County. We sincerely appreciate your business and look forward to continuing to serve the residents of Clarendon County and the surrounding communities for many years to come.
Best Bank. Best Mortgage Lender. Hometown proud.
In an era when banking is increasingly automated, outsourced and impersonal, there is something deeply reassuring about knowing your bank is still rooted right here at home.
For generations, Bank of Clarendon has proudly served the people, families, farmers, businesses and communities of Clarendon County and beyond. As a locally owned community bank, our story is inseparable from the story of this region itself. We have stood alongside our customers through seasons of growth, challenge and change, helping families buy their first homes, small businesses open their doors and local dreams become lasting legacies.
That is why being named Best Bank in Clarendon County is more than an award to us; it is an honor bestowed by the very community we are privileged to serve.
At BOC, banking has never been just about transactions. It is about relationships. It is about knowing our customers by name, understanding their goals and offering personalized financial solutions with a level of care only a true community bank can provide. Decisions are
made locally by people who understand this market, this community and the values that matter here.
We are equally proud to celebrate Mary Ann Morris , recognized as Best Mortgage Lender and Best Loan Officer . Mary Ann exemplifies everything that makes community banking special. Her expertise, dedication and commitment to helping customers navigate one of life’s biggest milestones, buying a home, have earned the trust of countless families throughout our area.
Whether guiding first-time home buyers, helping families refinance or finding lending solutions tailored to individual needs, Mary Ann brings both professionalism and heart to every customer interaction. Her recognition is a reflection of the exceptional service she delivers every day.
BOC is proud to sponsor local events, support schools and nonprofits, celebrate community milestones and contribute to the continued growth of Clarendon County. Because when our community thrives, we all thrive.
To everyone who voted for us, banked with us, trusted us and supported us through the years, we thank you.
Serving up the best at Jalisco Mexican Grill
The Reyes family would like to thank you for voting Jalisco Mexican Grill the Best Mexican Food in the 2026 Best of Clarendon contest. Our locally owned restaurant is named after Mexico’s Pacific Coast state, Jalisco, where our family originated. We have been in the restaurant business for more than 25 years, and we always strive to provide the best restaurant experience possible. Our team prides itself on serving great-tasting food in a comfortable family atmosphere. The friendly staff enjoys getting to know our guests and are truly honored to have the opportunity to serve you each day.
Jalisco Mexican Grill is open 7 days a week for dine-in or takeout. We are conveniently located on A M Nash Road in Manning next to I-95 at Exit 119. Come see us for the best authentic Mexican food, music and happy hour in a friendly atmosphere. Thank you again to our loyal customers. We enjoy serving you.
PERSONAL CARE
Manufacturing Plant
Latitude Corp.
Massage / Massage
Therapist
Courtney Pate
Soothing Phalanges
Nail Salon
Ellen's Nail Salon
Pest Control
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
Trucking Company
William's Trucking of the Carolinas LLC
Community
Campground
Palmetto Shores RV Resort
Networking Group
Clarendon County
Chamber of Commerce
Nonprofit Organization
Well Watered Ministries
Place for Kids to
Have Fun
Clarendon Exterminating
Pet Boarding
Puppy Parlor
Pet Grooming
Boop the Snoot Grooming
Self Storage Facility
Raccoon Storage
Septic Tanks
Robert James Septic LL
Sign Company
Mid Eastern Graphics
Storage / Utility
Buildings
OutDoor UpGrades
Tanning Salon
Southern Hair & Tan
Plus Nails
Tree Service
Ricky's Tree Service
Charity Event
A Second Chance Animal
Shelter BBQ Cookoff
Church
Manning United Methodist Church
Civic Club
Manning Lions Club
Community Event
Striped Bass Festival
Carolina Dance Academy
Place to Volunteer
Well Watered Ministries
Sports Leagues
Clarendon Elite Youth
Sports
Wedding Venue
Matrix Center
Eat & Drink
Elected Official
Rep. Fawn Pedalino
Event Entertainment
Tad Graham
Graham Entertainment
Event Venue
Weldon Auditorium
Firefighter / EMT
Ed Gamble
Clarendon County Fire Rescue
Law Enforcement
Officer
Chief Sean Briley
Manning Police Department
American Food
The Orchard Cafe
Asian Food
Yummy Japanese Grill
Bar
Jalisco Mexican Grill
Barbecue
D & H Bar-B-Que
Breakfast
Summerton Diner
Breakfast Buffet
Shoney’s
Brunch
The Orchard Cafe
Buffet
D & H Bar-B-Que
Burger
Burger Chick
Cake & Desserts
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
Health Food
Lucy's Traditional Southern Bakehouse
Hot Dog
Burger Chick
Ice Cream Store
Fayz at the Lake
Wings
Jalisco Mexican Grill
Education
After School Program
Laurence Manning Academy
Lucy's Traditional Southern Bakehouse
Catering
Timeless Traditions LLC
Coffee Shop
Jilly Beans Cafe
Deli
The Orchard Cafe
Family Restaurant
Porter Jacks Grill
Fast Food
Chick-fil-A
French Fries
Chick-fil-A
Fried Chicken
D & H Bar-B-Que
Grocery Store
Piggly Wiggly
Happy Hour
Jalisco Mexican Grill
Italian
Georgio's Restaurant & Pizza
Liquor Store
Premier Spirits and More
Mexican
Jalisco Mexican Grill
Pizza
Daniel’s Pizza
Romantic Restaurant
Driving School
Hands on Driver Training
Preschool
Laurence Manning Academy
Private School
Laurence Manning Academy
Public School
Manning Junior High School
The Lake House
Salads
Lucy's Traditional Southern Bakehouse
Sandwiches
The Orchard Cafe
Seafood
Gullah Gullah Fish
Sports Bar
The Players Course at Wyboo
Steak
Porter Jacks Grill
Sweet Tea
The Orchard Cafe
School Administrator
Dr. Anthony J. Williams Jr.
Manning Junior High School
School Teacher
Rhonda Joyner
Manning Early Childhood Center
Tutoring Center
Clarendon Christian
Learning
Home & Finance
Accounting
Gibbons & Company, CPA, PA
Air & Heating Service
1st Choice Quality
Heating Air & Plumbing
Apartment Complex
Mannington Place Apartments
Assisted Living
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
Financial Advisement
Glenn Wells, New York Life
Interior Decorating Company
Best Dressed Homes by Donna
Landscaping
Real Estate Company
The Litchfield Company & Christie's International
Real Estate
Roofing Company
Kelley Construction
Senior Care
Pocotaligo River Health and Rehab
Bank / Credit Union Bank of Clarendon
Cable / Satellite Company
FTC
Cleaning Company (Residential)
Kim Jones
Commercial and Residential Cleaning Service
Concrete Company
Cecil Hodge
Contractor / Remodeler
Ley Hemingway
HH Drywall LLC
Decks & Porches
OutDoor UpGrades
Electric / Gas Providers
Santee Electric
Cooperative Inc.
Fence Company
Ridgeway Fence Company
Brewer's Lawn Care
Mortgage Lender
Mary Ann Morris Bank of Clarendon
New Home
Construction Builder
Aycock Construction LLC
Nursing Home
Pocotaligo River Health and Rehab
At Your Service Home Care
Tax Preparation
Gibbons & Company, CPA, PA
Medical
Cardiologist
McLeod Cardiology
Associates Clarendon
Children's Dentist
Painters
Lewis Ryles
Pool Company
The Swimmin' Hole
Property Management Company
ResCom Management
Real Estate Agent
Peggy Haley
Real Estate Appraisal
Mackey Wood
Real Estate Closing Attorney
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A.
Clarendon Smiles Dental Clinic
Chiropractor
Manning Neck & Back
Dentistry / Cosmetic
Dentistry
Dr. Derek L. Lee, DMD
Dialysis Company
Fresenius Kidney Care
Manning
Family Practice
Eagerton Family Practice
A short drive from the big city, Santee Automotive is here to help you find your next vehicle
In the heart of Clarendon County lies a beacon of automotive excellence — Santee Automotive. Home to Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles, we take pride in offering a wide range of top-quality cars, trucks and SUVs to cater to every customer's needs. Our commitment to exceptional service and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction has earned us the esteemed title of Best New Car Dealership, Best Dealership Service Department and Best Car Salesperson-Alton ‘Scooter’ Goodwin in the 2026 Best of Clarendon awards. It's an honor to serve the Clarendon County community, and we are grateful for the trust and support we've received.
At Santee Automotive, we strive to redefine the car-buying experience for our customers. Our knowledgeable and friendly team is always ready to assist you in finding the perfect vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget. Whether you're in the market for a rugged and reliable Ford truck, a luxurious Chrysler sedan, a high-performance Dodge, a versatile Jeep SUV or a lifted Ram pickup, we have you covered. With a diverse inventory of new
and pre-owned vehicles, you're sure to find the right match at our dealership.
We understand that buying a car is a significant investment, which is why we go above and beyond to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. Our finance department works with a wide network of lenders to help you secure the best financing options tailored to your specific needs. Whether you have good credit, bad credit or no credit, we're here to help you drive home in your dream vehicle.
But our commitment doesn't end when you drive off the lot. Our state-of-the-art service center is staffed with certified technicians who are equipped to handle all your maintenance and repair needs. From routine oil changes to complex engine diagnostics, we're dedicated to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and safely for years to come.
Experience the difference at Santee Automotive, where our passion for excellence and community shines through in everything we do. Visit us today and discover why we are honored to be voted the best in Clarendon County.
Latitude Corp: Award-winning manufacturing and career opportunities in Manning
Latitude Corp is more than a manufacturing company — it is a place where careers grow, skills are developed and employees are valued. With more than 100 associates in Manning and continued growth underway, Latitude is actively hiring both hourly production workers and salaried associates to join its expanding team.
Recently named Best Manufacturing Plant in the Best of Clarendon awards, Latitude continues to earn recognition for its commitment to quality, innovation and workplace culture. The company operates multiple facilities and shifts in Manning, serving customers through advanced manufacturing and production capabilities.
The facilities on Jo Rogers Jr. Boulevard specialize in precision sheet metal fabrication using state-of-the-art lasers, forming equipment, spot welding and MIG/TIG welding
technology. These locations also house the company’s E-Coat and Powder Coat lines, Batch Powder Booth, Batch Oven and Assembly operations.
One of the things that sets Latitude apart is its Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Employees are more than team members — they are employee-owners who share in the company’s success. This creates a culture built on teamwork, pride and long-term growth.
Latitude Corp continues to seek motivated individuals who want to build rewarding careers in manufacturing and production. Whether starting a new path or bringing years of experience, employees have the opportunity to grow within a supportive and forward-thinking company.
To learn more about employment opportunities, visit latitudecorp.com.
General Surgeon
Dr. Devonne D. Barrineau
McLeod Surgery Clarendon
Hospice Care
McLeod Clarendon Hospice
In-Home Care
AND THE WINNERS ARE...
Vein Specialist
Dr. William Jackson
McLeod Health
Professionals
Civil Attorney
Joe Coffey
At Your Service Home Care
Medical Center
McLeod Health
Clarendon
Nurse
Jessica Weinberg, RN
McLeod Health
Clarendon
Obstetrics & Gynecology
McLeod Women's Care
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A.
Photographer
Oak+Lens Photography by Amber Murley
Plumber
1st Choice Quality
Heating Air & Plumbing
Veterinarian
Counselor
Elizabeth Briley
Criminal Defense
Attorney
Steven McKenzie
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A.
Electrician
Steven Voshell
Esthetician
Nicole Marlow
Lake Marion Animal Hospital
Shopping & Commerce
Antique Store
Bonanza Flea Market
Boutique
Berkeley Boutique
Optometrist
MyEyeDr.
Orthodontist
Coulter Orthodontics
Orthopedic Surgeons
McLeod Orthopaedics
Clarendon
Pediatrics
HopeHealth Pediatrics
Physical Therapist
Southern Lakes Therapy
Urgent Care
Low Country Urgent Care
Family Law Attorney
Steven McKenzie
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A.
Insurance Agent
Brian Joyner
Jeffords Insurance Agency
Loan Officer
Mary Ann Morris
Bank of Clarendon
Personal Injury
Attorney
Coffey & McKenzie, P.A.
Personal Trainer
Heatherly Brammer
Children's Clothing Store
Jack in the Box Children’s Boutique
Consignment Store
Bonanza Flea Market
Cosmetics Store
CVS
Farm / Lawn Equipment
Sparrow & Kennedy
Tractor Company
Feed Store
Frierson Farms Store
Fishing Store
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Vision
Enabling our customer’s vision with excellence in quality and service.
Values
Mission
To provide quality, high precision metal solutions to a diverse customer base.
Always Safe: Creating a workplace focused on the health, safety and well-being of all
Customer Focus: Building positive relationships with our customers
Teamwork and Respect: Working together to foster creativity and leveraging individual strengths
Personal Accountability: Taking personal ownership and pride in our actions
Quality at Every Step: Delivering the highest quality service to our customers
Value Creation: consistently creating solutions that customers value
MANNING FACILITIES
The Manning facilities specialize in precision sheet metal fabrication using state-of-the-art lasers, forming equipment, spot welding, and MIG/TIG welding technology. These locations also house the company’s E-Coat and Powder Coat lines, Batch Powder Booth, Batch Oven, and Assembly operations.
BE A PART OF THE TEAM!
Verona, Wisconsin
Tucson, Arizona
We are hiring hourly production workers and salaried associates. Learn about the opportunities today!
Manning, South Carolina
Fitness Store
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Flea Market
Bonanza Flea Market
Furniture Store
Farmers Home Furniture
Gas Station
Tanners Gas Station
Gift Store
Brunson’s Pharmacy
Guns & Firearms Dealer
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Hardware Store
Local Cellular Company
FTC
Mattress Store
Freedom Furniture & Mattress
Men's Clothing Store
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Pharmacy
Brunson's Pharmacy
Shoe Store
Berkeley Boutique
Sporting Goods
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Thrift Store
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Jewelry Store
Big T Jewelers
Nursery
Brunson Nursery and Design
Paint Store
Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods
Party Rental & Supply Store
Muddy Bottom Farm
A Second Chance Thrift Store
Tire Store
Walker Tire Company
Tobacco Store
Stop & Go
Vape Store
Stop & Go
Pawn Shop
Reliable Pawn Shop
Pet Store
Manning Feed Mill
Women's Clothing
Berkeley Boutique
McLeod Health Voted The Best 2026 Best Of Clarendon
McLeod Health Clarendon
Best Medical Center
Best General Surgeon
Dr. Devonne D. Barrineau
Best Cardiologists
McLeod Cardiology
Associates Clarendon
Best Vein Specialist
Dr. William C. Jackson
Best Orthopedic Surgeons
McLeod Orthopaedics Clarendon
Best OB/GYN Practice
McLeod Women’s Care
Best Family Practice
Eagerton Family Practice
Best Nurse
Jessica Weinberg, RN
Best Hospice Care
McLeod Clarendon Hospice
Best Esthetician Nicole Marlowe
The Spa at McLeod Clarendon
A heartfelt thank you after 57 great years
For more than five decades, Big T Jewelers has proudly served Manning and the surrounding communities with dedication, appreciation and a personal touch that turned customers into lifelong friends. Since opening in 1969, Kenny, Tammye and their staff have been honored to help generations of families celebrate life’s special moments.
After many rewarding years in business, Kenny and Tammye have decided it is time to retire and enjoy their golden years. While this chapter is coming to a close, they remain deeply grateful for the support, loyalty and friendships the community has shared with them throughout the years.
Being voted Best of Clarendon year after year has been one of the greatest honors for Big T Jewelers. Those recognitions represent the lasting relationship between the store and the people of Clarendon County.
As Big T Jewelers prepares for retirement, the store will continue its going out of business sale with merchandise reduced throughout the store.
Kenny, Tammye and the entire staff sincerely thank every customer for making more than 57 years in business possible.
Come visit us before we close at: 520 W. Boyce St,. Manning, SC.
Thank you for voting
McLeod Health Clarendon provides comforting and quality care
McLeod Health Clarendon, an 81-bed acute care hospital, is here to provide you and your family the highest-quality health care available. Our highly skilled physicians and medical staff provide a wide range of medical services designed to meet the unique needs of the people living in Clarendon County and surrounding communities that we serve. We have the services you need here and now. McLeod Health Clarendon is committed to transforming Clarendon’s health care. Newer with investments in state-of-the-art equipment, access to new technology and renovations. Better with recruitment of new specialists in cardiology, nephrology and other specialty areas and the expansion of hospice care to Clarendon and Sumter counties. Faster emergency care because of substantial changes to the patient intake and assessment process, resulting in significantly shorter wait times and improved patient flow. McLeod Health Clarendon is dedicated to improving the overall health and well-being of those who trust us with their care. As part of the McLeod Health System, the region’s destination for medical excellence, patients receive direct access to specialists in heart and vascular care and a full line of cancer diagnostic and treatment options. Our excellence extends from the Midlands to the coast along the border
of North Carolina and South Carolina – serving more than one million people. In addition to Clarendon, McLeod Health currently operates three Health and Fitness Centers, a Sports Medicine and Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, Hospice and Home Health Services. The system currently has 988 licensed beds, including Hospice and Behavioral Health. The hospitals within McLeod Health include: McLeod Regional Medical Center, McLeod Health Dillon, McLeod Health Loris, McLeod Health Seacoast, McLeod Health Cheraw, McLeod Health Clarendon and McLeod Behavioral Health.
Services include:
• Cardiology • Cardiopulmonary Care • Emergency Department • Health & Fitness Center & Spa
• Home Health • Hospice • Imaging-Mammography, CT &
MRI • Infusion Services • Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
• Laboratory • McLeod Safe Kids • Orthopedics
• Pediatrics • Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery • Podiatry
• Rehabilitation: Cardiac, Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy • Sleep Lab • Surgical Services • Swing Bed Program• Urology • Women’s Services, Maternity Care, Centering, Midwifery & Pelvic Health • Wound Care
Meares Marine wants to keep you out on the water
Welcome to Meares Marine LLC, your No. 1 stop for all things boating. Located on Lake Marion, Meares Marine was founded in 2014 by owner and operator Patrick Meares. Meares Marine takes pride in being the most dependable service center on Lake Marion. We strive to keep our customers on the water, and we appreciate their votes of confidence in naming us Best Boat Dealership in TheSumterItem’s 2026 Best of Clarendon contest.
At Meares Marine, we offer everything a lakefront marina should. We are an authorized Crest and Yamaha dealer and a Mercury and Yamaha board dealer serving the Clarendon area. Meares Marine carries new and pre-owned inventory and can provide in-house financing for both. With our dockside store and fuel, we aim to get you back out on the water in no time. Half- and full-day boat rentals are available so everyone can enjoy the adventure Lake Marion has to offer.
Follow us on Facebook. Visit us at 2058 Lake Shore Drive, Manning, give us a call at (803) 478-2527, or email mearesmarine@gmail.com. Visit us at www. MearesMarine.com.
Reliable Pawn Shop earns reputation for honesty and respect
Reliable Pawn Shop has been locally owned since it was established in 1946. We lead the pawn industry as one of the oldest licensed pawnbrokers in South Carolina.
As active members of the South Carolina and National Pawnbrokers Associations, we hold ourselves to the highest standards. As a result, we have earned the reputation of treating our clients honestly and respectfully.
Our retail inventory includes electronics, power and hand tools, musical instruments, audio/video equipment, DVDs, holsters, ammo, air conditioners, TVs, computers, lawnmowers, microwaves, bicycles, fishing equipment and much more. We specialize in firearms and jewelry, with new and preowned fine jewelry gracing each of our stores in Sumter and Manning and selections that are unrivaled in those areas.
At Reliable Pawn Shop, we are happy to help you overcome any cash flow interruption with a collateral loan. We are staffed with experienced pawnbroking professionals to match our services to your specific situation. Thanks for voting for us!
Rep. Pedalino grateful to serve Clarendon
I am deeply honored to be recognized as Best Elected Official in the 2026 Best of Clarendon awards. This honor means so much because it comes from the people I am privileged to serve, and I sincerely appreciate your trust, encouragement and continued support.
Representing our community in the Statehouse is a responsibility I value every day. I remain committed to being accessible, listening to your concerns and working hard for the issues that matter most to Clarendon County — from strengthening local infrastructure to promoting accountability and ensuring our voices are heard. It is a privilege to stand beside the people of District 64 as we continue building a stronger future for our community.
Thank you for your confidence and for allowing me the opportunity to serve. I will continue working hard to represent you with integrity and dedication.
8 Years In A Row!
Monica PhanOWNER
It has always been my dream to help people in the community. Being here every day at Tanners allows me to send people to work in the morning and home in the evening with a smile on their face.
I, Monica Phan, owner,
would like to thank all my wonderful customers for voting us
Tanners – more than a gas station, we are the one-stop shop for all your fishing, lake day needs
It has always been my dream, since I came here when I was 13, to help people improve in the community. Being at Tanners in Manning allows me to send people to work in the morning, home in the evening and to the lake on the weekend with smiles on their faces.
I’ve worked so hard to be able to own my own store to serve Manning, Sumter and the surrounding area with all your fuelup, snack and convenience store needs, and I love talking to all of you every day and seeing your faces come back again and again.
Starting out as an accountant, I always knew I wanted to be in retail. My dream came true in 2010 when I opened my first store in Sumter, and I’ve absolutely loved my time in Manning since opening here seven years ago.
Whether you need gas, bait and tackle, breakfast, lunch or a hot dinner, it is my responsibility to send you away satisfied. Tanners offers a variety of fuel, including regular gas, propane, small-engine fuel and race gas. Our store is packed with anything you’d want fast, from candy and chips to cold
beverages. Our pizza and wings are hot and ready to take out or eat here daily.
We have everything you need for your day on the lake. Come stock up on ice, beer, snacks, fishing supplies and other outdoor gear. The summer holidays are great because I get to meet so many people who I can help stock up for a good time outdoors.
You, the customers, are the most important part of my business. My reliable and caring staff has been here through hurricanes and snow. We have used a generator to provide food and gas knowing others may be out and in need.
With Manning being such a small Southern town, where everyone knows everyone, seeing the same people come back day after day warms my heart.
If you haven't been out to see us at any of our three locations, on U.S. 301 in Manning or two locations on U.S. 15 South in Sumter, please come visit to learn about everything we have to offer. If you’ve been with us for a while now, we can’t wait to see you again.
Thank you for shopping local at Lucy’s
Words cannot fully express how grateful we are for this incredible recognition. This award is not just a celebration of Lucy’s — it is a celebration of our community and the importance of supporting local businesses. Every customer who chooses to shop local plays a part in helping our community grow and thrive, and we are deeply thankful for your continued support.
At Lucy’s, we believe in creating more than just delicious food and desserts — we strive to create a welcoming experience that feels like home the moment you walk through our doors. From homemade sweets to savory meals and everything in between, each item is prepared with care, love and appreciation for the people we serve.
When you take home Lucy’s, you are sharing a piece of our heart with your family and friends. Your support inspires us every day to continue serving this wonderful community and to keep celebrating the spirit of shopping local.
From all of us at Lucy’s, thank you for your trust, encouragement and support. We are truly honored and grateful.
Your vehicle will run great with CARQUEST Auto Parts
Thank you to all our loyal and new customers who voted CARQUEST Auto Parts of Manning Best of Clarendon in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and again for 2026. Thank you for voting us Best Auto Parts and Best Car & Truck Accessories. We are a family owned and veteran-run business with 10 locations, and we are always looking for ways to improve and streamline our operations, which are anchored on customer service.
We offer custom-mixed paint, on-site hydro hose, light- and heavy-duty truck parts, small engine parts and a knowledgeable staff that can help you with anything you need or have questions about.
We are here for you and want you to feel comfortable trusting us with the care of your vehicle.
CARQUEST Auto Parts of Manning is looking forward to serving you for many years to come.
At Graham Entertainment, the party options are endless
Graham Entertainment brings the life to a party! They have an endless library of music that is fitting for all occasions. Whether you're looking for a family fun night or a party on the dance floor, they have the means to make it happen. Tad and Lyndy Graham, known as Graham Entertainment, have been DJing together for over 27 years. Their experience is exceptional, as is their ability to keep the party going. Tad’s love for music and sound equipment led him to DJing, and his wife, Lyndy,
decided to join the fun. They provide entertainment for all types of occasions, from weddings and receptions to parties, proms, karaoke and trivia. Contact Tad or Lyndy today to learn more about Graham Entertainment and how to book them to DJ your next event. Graham Entertainment also has chairs and tables for rent for any occasion. Delivery is available. Please call for details at (803) 460-8495.
DJs FOR ALL OCCASIONS
Graham Entertainment
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BUSINESS PAGES
At Your Service Home Care ..........................
Aycock Construction LLC
Bank of Clarendon
Berkeley Boutique
Best Dressed Homes
Big T Jewelers ................................................
Hope Health Pediatrics .................................
Jalisco Mexican Grill
Jilly Beans Coffee
Latitude Corp.
Laurence Manning Academy
Lucy's Traditional Southern Bakehouse
Mayo's Suit City ...............................................
Tanners Gas Station
The Flower Shoppe of Manning
The Litchfield Company and Christie's
International Real Estate
The Orchard Cafe
The Players Course at Wyboo .....................
The Studio Salon .............................................
The Swimmin' Hole
Timeless Traditions LLC
June
July August 2026
Where the coast comes
home
How one family turned a small Manning restaurant into a living tribute to Gullah Geechee culture, coastal tradition and the kind of food that keeps people coming back home
BY ALAYSHA MAPLE
From Manning to the coast
Before the doors open on Thursday at Gullah Gullah Fish, before the first order ticket prints and before the first fillet of fish is dropped into the rolling grease, Craig Levy is usually on the highway, headed farther south.
From the coastal blue building nestled at 23 W. Boyce St. in Manning, the road ahead points toward the South Carolina coast. Toward Georgetown shrimpers and Charleston suppliers, toward crabbers pulling blue crabs straight from the water and toward coolers packed to the brim before sunrise. Many customers never see this part of the process, but for Craig and his family, this is where the work truly begins.
The seafood is not processed, not rushed or diluted by freezers and heat lamps. It’s fresh, seasoned and cooked to order. And maybe more importantly, the restaurant is family owned in every sense of those words, from its recipes to its tenacity to its staff — all family.
“And it's been that way since day one,” Craig said proudly.
But somewhere between the crabs,
fried fish baskets and trays of hot honey flounder, there is another story simmering beneath the surface of the restaurant’s decade of success. It’s a story tied to memory, migration and a culture many South Carolinians still know far too little about.
Craig and his brother, Kevin, were raised in bustling New York by parents whose roots stretched deep into the coastal Carolina culture, with ties to the Charleston area. As children, family was at the center of their upbringing, from gatherings filled with laughter to recipes passed around the kitchen table. They didn’t fully understand how much history was wrapped into the food they were eating.
That understanding came later.
As the brothers aged, their travels into the coastal communities throughout South Carolina and Georgia doubled as maintaining family connections and uncovering the culture that shaped their family: Gullah Geechee culture.
For generations, the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved West
and Central Africans, preserved pieces of African language, storytelling, spirituality and cuisines along the coastal regions and sea islands that stretched from North Carolina to Florida. According to Kevin, the difference in Gullah Geechee culture depends on where one lives regionally. In South Carolina, the community spans from Hilton Head to Beaufort, St. Helena Island, Charleston and surrounding areas.
Because many of those communities remained geographically isolated for years, traditions survived in ways rarely seen elsewhere in the country. And nowhere is that history more alive than at the table.
Uncovering culture through cuisine
“There's a difference between Gullah food and soul food. Similar, but there is a difference, and I don’t think it gets enough recognition,” Kevin said.
That difference shows up in the
spices native to the coast of West Africa, from fresh aromatics like garlic and onion and warm spices of nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger to hot peppers ranging from cayenne to crushed pepper flakes. They can appear in staples of crab rice, okra stew, shrimp and grits and seafood dishes tied directly to the coast and African traditions carried across the Atlantic from generations ago.
The crab rice in particular has become one of the restaurant’s staples, layered with seasoning and, of course, seafood that brings in richness that the culture is known for but also that coastal feel that many inlanders seek on a given weekend. Historians have pointed to the knowledge enslaved West Africans carried with them from rice-growing regions overseas that has heavily shaped the agricultural and culinary identity of the Lowcountry.
Shrimp and grits, okra stew and seafood boils fall on the same culinary platter, as much of Gullah Geechee cooking was built out of
necessity, using local ingredients pulled from the coastal waters, marshes and inland waterways to create meals that have stretched across generations. Over time, those recipes have evolved, adapting to tradition and availability of certain ingredients. But they have survived because generations decided they would – including Kevin and Craig.
Though they would be young adults discovering their roots, it surprised the brothers that there are native South Carolinians who don’t know of the Gullah culture, considering the influence and impact it has had on the state’s uniqueness. From the folklore that heavily influenced American oral history and religious practices and hand-sewn sweetgrass baskets to their language that blends English with various West African linguistic roots spoken nowhere else in the world to their ingenuity in cultivating rice, the region was one of the most prosperous in early America.
Craig and Kevin’s weekends became filled with driving through Charleston and Savannah, Georgia, trying different restaurants, studying menus and learning how Gullah Geechee communities preserved culture through food.
Barbara Levy, their mom, remembered those years as the start of her sons truly understanding where they came from.
The family bought the West Boyce Street building a year before moving back south. After renting it out as an office space for about three years, the tenant eventually left, moving towns. That opened the door for Craig and Kevin to turn the family-owned building into a familyowned business, centered on the very part of their identity they had spent years uncovering.
“When they came up with the idea that they wanted to put a restaurant here, I said OK, that's a lot of work. You have to really plan it all out. So, they did their research,” she boasted about her
sons. “Between my husband and myself, we were backing them because with them being young, we wanted to make sure they succeed in whatever their plans were.”
Together, the family laid the restaurant’s foundation and legacy “brick by brick,” Craig said. With the help of their father, Johnny, everything from the stove hood to the kitchen equipment to the very decor that adorns the walls — including original folk art by Samuel Ravenel Gaillard that displays iconic recipes, from Charleston She-Crab Soup to Charleston Okra Soup in bold typography — is sourced from the hands and hearts of the Levy family. It took nearly seven months to get the place up and running, opening its door in 2016.
Leaning into Craig’s passion for cooking and their coastline exploration of cuisine, he and Kevin were able to curate a menu that was connected to their roots, both familial and geographical. From Aunt Betty’s Sweet Potato Pie and Aunt Jeanie’s Pound Cake to deep-fried blue crabs and crab rice that routinely sells out, the menu became far more than a collection of dishes. In reality, it became a map for newcomers — both native to Manning and those sailing through town by way of Interstate 95 — of the Gullah
culture as lived and loved by the Levy family.
But the preservation of the culture is what Kevin worries about most. As elders pass and younger generations lose sight of their roots, traditions begin “dying out.”
“If they're not teaching it in the schools and the parents are not teaching it, the older people, say in their 70s or 80s — they're not teaching, so the kids are not learning. They don't know why they talk a certain way, or they don't know why they're eating a certain way, and they just go on about their business.”
And maybe that’s why the family approaches the business the way it does. Cooking items to order, limited days open to optimize travel time for the freshest ingredients and refraining from shortcuts to make operation easier are all tied to a larger responsibility of keeping the culture alive.
Carrying tradition forward
This year marks 10 years since the Levys first opened the doors of Gullah Gullah Fish.
A lot has changed since then. The menu has evolved several times, with several dishes disappearing while others became customer favorites. The family survived the COVID-19 pandemic, opening a to-go
“There's a difference between Gullah food and soul food. Similar, but there is a difference, and I don’t think it gets enough recognition,”
-Kevin Levy
window for orders but holding tight to the freshness and culture even after shutting down for more than a year.
Travelers from across the country still stop in to the small restaurant for a bite of the Lowcountry, be it by word of mouth, experiencing the flavor-packed dishes for themselves, reading all the hype on social media or to quell their curiosity of what good lies behind a name like “Gullah Gullah.”
The Levys hope the next chapter of the business pushes that curiosity forward. In addition to the restaurant, Craig is working toward the launch of Gullah Gullah Fish food trucks with plans to eventually franchise them. The idea not only expands the business geographically, but also provides flexibility to introduce more people to the culture and traditions that inspired the restaurant to begin with.
“I think when we get the franchises going, that's when we could really push that,” Craig assured.
Because in their family, in their culture, food has never been just about feeding people. A bite of any dish on the menu is a means to preserve memory. To make sure younger generations understand why certain dishes matter and where they come from. To make sure a culture rooted in resilience, tradition and family continues to have a place at the table long after the ones who first carried it are gone.
And that’s what makes Gullah Gullah Fish special.
Beyond the fresh food and family atmosphere, the restaurant offers all who enter its door a connection to history, culture and that feeling of home.
& What to do
BERKELEY • CLARENDON
KERSHAW • FLORENCE • RICHLAND
ORANGEBURG • SUMTER
SUMTER COUNTY
Sumter Farmers Market
Where to go
Sumter Farmers Market is now open every Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and the first and third Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 200 Miller Road. Shop fresh and local produce and pasture raised meat, sweet treats, olive oils, sauces, salad dressings, jams and jellies, freeze-dried treats, lemonade, crafters, artisans, soaps, specialty teas and coffees, food trucks and more.
Fourth Fridays Concert Series
Fourth Fridays Concert Series returns with country singer Cody Webb at 6:30 pm. Friday, June 26, on the grounds of the Sumter County Courthouse, 141 N. Main St. Later dates include: June 26 – Cody Webb, July 24 – Honey & New Era, Aug. 28 – Level 10 Live Band & Show and Sept. 25 – Sole Purpose. Concert attendance is free, and there will be food and drink available for sale. Downtown restaurants will be open for dine-in and take-out. Palmetto Optimist Club will be back with free books for the kids, as well as popcorn and cotton candy for sale. Bring your chairs (no coolers) and spend an evening in downtown Sumter!
If the Windows Could Talk: Children's Bible Stories Series
Temple Sinai Jewish History Center, 11 Church St., welcomes the public to If the Windows Could Talk: Children's Bible Stories Series from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. on the following dates: Aug. 1, The Burning Bush (featuring Moses); and Sept. 5, The 10 Commandments (featuring Moses). The series "is designed to be a fun experience for your children to hear the stories associated with Temple Sinai's beautiful and historic stained glass windows."
Where Creativity Grows: The Topiary Experience with Michael Gibson
Where Creativity Grows: The Topiary Experience with Michael Gibson, led by esteemed topiary artist Michael P. Gibson, is a two-hour
therapeutic workshop for up to 12 participants set for 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, at Sumter County Gallery of Art, 200 Hasel St. "Participants will learn the Gibson Method to Creative Pruning, a five-step approach for developing their creative topiary skills, while receiving personalized support from Gibson. This workshop blends education, hands-on activities, and group reflections to maximize the therapeutic benefits of topiary art. Gibson is a renowned topiary artist and educator with over 30 years of experience, having created more than 700 living sculptures across the U.S. Featured on HGTV’s Clipped, he served as the first Artist-in-Residence at the Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden. Gibson developed the Gibson Method, blending geometry and storytelling to transform plants into art." To purchase your ticket, visit https://tinyurl.com/54kntd2j.
2026 Krawlin' For Christ Jeep Show
The 2026 Krawlin' For Christ Jeep Show featuring Jeep vendors, live music, food vendors, RC course and a Jeep Show and Shine Competition will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 25, at Sumter County Civic Center, 700 W. Liberty St. Entry to this indoor and outdoor event is free to the public. All proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children's Hospital. To find out more, go to https://Krawlinforchrist.wixsite.com/mysite-1. The show and shine registration booth will be open from 8:30 to 11 a.m. the day of the event. Cost to register your Jeep is $20, and all proceeds will go to St. Jude Children's Hospital. There will be raffles. No alcohol allowed.
Alpha Reads
Sumter Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity have teamed up with Sumter County Library for a new reading program. Join the group on the first Saturday of every month for Alpha Reads, starting at 11 a.m. Sumter County Library is at 111 N. Harvin St.
LEE COUNTY
Lizard Man Stomp
Celebrate South Carolina's own scaly reptile at the 2026 Lizard Man Stomp beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27, on Main Street in Bishopville. Enjoy vendors, live music, arts and crafts, kids activities, a car show, parade and more.
Independence Day Festival
Head to Bishopville for its Independence Day Festival on Saturday, July 4. There will be fireworks, food and fun activities for everyone. Gates open at 3:30 p.m., and the festival starts at 4 p.m. with an opening ceremony, presentation of the colors, an opening prayer and an F-16 flyover at Lee County Airport, or “Butters Field,” 145 Airport Road in Bishopville. Several bands will play at the field’s stage, including Koby Weaver with Southern Soul, Austin and Madi and Chukk Gregory Live. A children’s play area and food vendors will be open until 8:30, and the fireworks show starts at 9 p.m. The nonprofit bishopvillefireworksinc. org says “every kid deserves the chance to sit on a blanket and watch the sky light up over the celebration of our nation's founding with no cost to the family.”
CAMDEN
Hero Fest
Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will host the Hero Fest motorcycle ride on Saturday, Sept. 26, with all proceeds going to veterans in the Midlands. Participants will make multiple stops along the ride, including in Sumter, starting and stopping at Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge, 1015 Broad St., Camden. Other stops will include Wild Heart Brewing Co., Southern Hops Brewing Co., Slabs BBQ Restaurant and Willie Sue's. There will also be vendors, food trucks, raffles, silent auction, live music and games. Must be present to win prizes. Registration starts at 9 a.m. Rider signup
costs $20, and passenger signup is $10. First bike leaves at 10:30 a.m., and the last bike returns at 4 p.m. A meet and greet before the event will be held Friday, Sept. 25, at Greener Pastures Brewing Co., 826 Broad St., Camden, at 6 p.m.
CLARENDON COUNTY
Sherri Arment Memorial Charity Golf Classic
The second-annual Sherri Arment Memorial Charity Golf Classic to benefit pets at Second Chance Animal Shelter will be Saturday, June 27, at Players Course at Wyboo. Cost is: course members, $40, nonmembers, $55. Payment is to accompany entry form. Forms can be picked up at A Second Chance Thrift Store in Manning, Players Course, Chamber of Commerce and A Second Chance Animal Shelter. Registration is at 8 a.m., and shotgun start is at 9 a.m. Tournament package includes green fee and cart, continental breakfast, lunch and prizes (based on entries). This is a four-man captain’s choice with 10-point handicap system and mulligans available. For more information, see entry forms or call Herb Whetsell at (843) 509-3737 or Mike Stegmoyer at (803) 460-0878.
Show Us Your Wheels Show
Head Turnerz will hold the Show Us Your Wheels Show on Saturday, June 27, at JC Britton Park, 3057 Racoon Road. The event will benefit Monarch Strong Scholarships. All vehicles are welcome: cars, trucks, hot rods, motorcycles and golf carts. There will be a 50/50 raffle. Onsite registration will be $20, 9-11 a.m. Awards presentation will be at noon: Best of Show 1986 and newer; Best of Show 1985 and older; Sponsor's Choice; Host Car; MSC Scholars' Choice; Top 15 1986 and newer; and Top 15 1985 and older. There will be Zumba in the Park, barbecue, and ice cream truck and more. The Monarchs Got Talent Show will be held from 1-3 p.m.
S.C. Charity Golf Tournament
S.C. Charity Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, at Santee Cooper Country Club, 630 Santee Drive. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with shotgun start at 9 a.m. Cost is $75/player and $300/team. Tournament prizes include Closest to Pin, Longest Drive and raffles/door prizes. For additional information, contact Kenneth Johnson at (803) 410-0976 or email info@jwcmemorial.org.
COLUMBIA
Annual Summer Orchid Auction
Join the South Carolina Orchid Society for its Annual Summer Orchid Auction at noon Sunday, June 28, at 1605 Park Circle, Columbia. There will be 100 items up for live auction including blooming plants, seedlings, pottery, care kits and every thing in between. Bidding starts at 1 p.m . Cash, checks, credit cards, Venmo and Paypal accepted.
50 Years From Home
Vince Gill will bring his 50 Years From Home tour to the Township Auditorium, Columbia, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. Purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/nhb7pchs
Your Favorite Cousin Tour
Comedian Desi Banks will bring his all new Your Favorite Cousin Tour to the Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Green St., Columbia, on Saturday, Oct. 10. Banks is an actor, stand-up comedian, podcaster and entrepreneur who has a strong social media influence with more than 19 million fans. He is known for his "razor-sharp wit and hilarious comedic timing." Tickets that were sold for Desi's show, "The Elevation Tour," originally scheduled in 2025 at the Koger Center, are valid for this performance. For more information and tickets, visit KogerCenterForTheArts.com.
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• Camp Store
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8am-6pm Tues.-Sat. • www.elliottscampground.com (803) 452-5336 Alice Weathersbee, Owner
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Fabric Warehouse
MEET THE NEW CEO
McLeod Health Clarendon leader brings passion for rural communities to role
BY BRUCE MILLS
On May 4, McLeod Health corporate leaders named Scott Adams as McLeod Health Clarendon’s CEO after a 25-year career with the system provider.
A Marlboro County native, Adams never initially thought a health care career would be his calling. After graduating from Marlboro County High School in 1993, he worked in a factory and never intended on pursuing college, he said.
However, in the late 1990s, his grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer, and Adams and the rest of his family was with her in her cancer journey.
He said he watched the care that the nurses and medical staff provided to his grandmother at McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, and “it constantly resonated with me.”
“McLeod has certainly invested in me, and I think if you were to cut me, I would bleed teal. But, let’s don’t try it.”
— Scott Adams, McLeod Health Clarendon CEO
His grandmother would lose her battle with cancer, but Adams was heavily influenced by the nursing career choice.
“Man, they get to go to work to deliver care to a patient,” he said, “and I was on the receiving end of that as a family member, and they never even interacted with me.
“So, I said, I think I am going to give this nursing thing a try. I enrolled and went to Trident Technical College, got my associate degree. And the rest is history.”
After starting as a registered bedside nurse with heart patients at McLeod, Adams worked in critical care transport, he said. That field involves the specialized movement of critically ill patients between health care facilities.
Then, he made a complete career shift into operations and later more specifically labor and workforce optimization, he said. Before moving to McLeod Health Clarendon in November of last year, Adams’ role with McLeod Health was as senior manager of labor and workforce optimization.
“McLeod has certainly invested in me,” he said, “and I think if you were to cut me, I would bleed teal. But, let’s don’t try it.”
In November, he was named interim chief nursing officer at the Manning campus, and in early March, he was also named interim CEO, before taking on the permanent position in early May.
At the time of the announcement, McLeod Health President and CEO Donna Isgett noted Adams’ broad skill set and leadership capabilities.
“Scott is a proven leader who understands both the clinical and operational sides of health care,” she said. “His deep knowledge of McLeod Health, combined with his passion for serving rural communities, makes him exceptionally well suited to lead McLeod Health Clarendon into the future.”
The CEO position is Adams’ first lead role with a hospital.
Q& A with Scott Adams
BY THE NUMBERS
Question from Lakeside Describe your passion for serving rural communities.
Adams said his hometown is Wallace, which is outside of Cheraw in Marlboro County.
“Many people have not heard of Wallace. We celebrated my senior year of high school when we got a stoplight. It is a pass-through town.”
He added he thinks growing up in a small community has allowed him to quickly immerse himself into the Clarendon hospital and the local area.
“I did grow up in a small town. Actually, one of McLeod’s local hospitals – McLeod Cheraw – is in Cheraw, and it literally is the same size campus, same size facility as here.
“Donna Isgett, our president, really likes to focus on ‘local people caring for local people.’ And in our small campus settings that is highlighted. You know your neighbors, you know your friends, and most of the time you know everybody who comes through the emergency department.
“Health care - in itself-is very complex, but the mission behind health care is not. It’s about driving quality care to the people who need it most. And in a small-town community, they become our friends, our neighbors, the people we go to church with, and it just heightens that level of accountability, and I am very passionate about that.
“You provide good service, and you see them at church.”
Lakeside: What is the strategic vision for McLeod Health Clarendon, and how does the hospital fit into the greater McLeod Health system?
“We want to be a rural community hospital that focuses on the mission, vision and values of the greater McLeod Health system.
“As a small community hospital, we get to leverage all the resources that McLeod Health has to offer. That could be through quality initiatives. That could be emerging technologies that our larger campuses are privy to.
“But, we get to be on the receiving end of that. In so many cases, small rural hospitals are struggling, but because we are part of a larger health care system, we get to provide local care in a high-quality fashion. So, the goal and strategic vision would be to continue to lean into that.
“We are going to do some exciting things on this campus in the future, specifically around the way we deliver care to our patients, that will be new and innovative and will actually set us apart from others in the community.”
Adams said the hospital plans to expand on its existing services in a purposeful way.
“We are constantly looking at our patient population and trying to figure out what best fits their needs.
“Now, the blueprint is already here. We’re providing high-quality inpatient services. We can provide ICU levels of care. We do a great job with women’s services and our emergency department,
Associate of Science in Nursing from Trident Technical College; Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Francis Marion University; Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University
but we will constantly be seeking out whether there are other service lines that will benefit this community.”
He added that McLeod Health Clarendon is looking to grow its footprint in Clarendon and also in Sumter. McLeod already has a small footprint in the Sumter community.
Since becoming part of McLeod Health a decade ago, the hospital’s orthopedic care program has expanded, and the campus also has a robot now for surgical procedures.
Lakeside: Describe more about the McLeod Health system network.
There are seven hospitals in the McLeod system that cover an 18-county service area and about a two-million-population footprint, Adams said.
Both McLeod Cheraw and McLeod Dillon are very similar in size and scope to McLeod Clarendon, he added.
“In April, the hospital in Clarendon County celebrated its 75th year of existence. Then, we are also celebrating our 10th year as part of the McLeod Health system. And then our health system is celebrating its 120th year.
“McLeod covers the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, and we (McLeod Clarendon) are the most southern point of that region. The system also extends up into eastern North Carolina with physician practices.
“We also have Seacoast, which is near the border of South Carolina and North Carolina and serves some of those eastern North Carolina counties. And for that matter, McLeod Dillon and McLeod Cheraw also extend some of their services to that North Carolina market.”
He added McLeod is the third-largest health care provider in the state.
Lakeside: What more would you like to say on your new role here and McLeod Health Clarendon?
“My family and I look forward to engaging in the community here and being a part of social events.
“These are great people on this campus. On that note, with McLeod, we recently celebrated Mission, Vision, Values Week.
“The mission is to provide excellent health care to those in eastern North Carolina and the Pee Dee. The vision is to provide that care with excellence. But the values are what ring out and what resonate through all of our employees. And we actually got to celebrate that recently. It’s called
a McLeod Merit Award.
“It’s based off the four key tenets of what we look for in our employees – the value of caring, the value of person, the value of quality and the value of integrity.
“I grew up on the McLeod Regional campus in Florence, and that is our Level II Trauma Center. It is the center hub of our health system, and so that was ingrained in me from when I was a baby-boy nurse years ago. But it is so clear that culture is [pervasive] in all of our McLeod Health hospitals including this one.
“The Merit Award is what we give out when someone displays those characteristics in a great way, and because of Mission, Vision, Values Week, we were able to give out one of those awards recently, and that was so exciting and it just highlights the talent we have here on this staff.”
Nursing leadership veteran is new chief nursing officer
BY BRUCE MILLS
Not only does McLeod Health Clarendon have a new CEO, but a new chief nursing officer is also on board after corporate and local hospital leaders named Denise Allison to the post this spring.
Allison brings nearly 20 years of nursing leadership experience to the local hospital, a strong background in clinical quality, care coordination and organizational leadership and like Scott Adams also began her career as a bedside nurse. She assumed the role on May 18.
A native of the Town of Cheraw, Allison has worked 17 years for McLeod Health. After starting as a nurse, she moved into various corporate roles to include nurse educator for organizational learning, care manager for clinical effectiveness and corporate director for integrated care delivery, she said.
In 2016, Allison won one of South Carolina’s most prestigious honors for a nurse with the Palmetto Gold Award. Only 100 nurses across the state are recognized each year.
According to Allison, her career with McLeod has allowed her to cross paths and know Adams well, and she added that she has “the utmost respect for him.”
“I definitely know Scott and his work ethic, and he is a great, great leader and I have nothing but respect for him,” she said. “I know what he can bring to the table, and he is actually one of many reasons that I decided to even apply for the position.”
Similarly, Adams spoke highly of Allison assuming her new role at the hospital.
“Denise is a highly respected leader who brings deep clinical expertise and a passion for patient-centered care,” he said. “Her experience across multiple areas of our health system and her commitment to quality and teamwork make her an outstanding choice to lead nursing at McLeod Health Clarendon. I am super excited she has come on board.”
In her new post, Allison will oversee all nursing
operations at McLeod Clarendon to ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care. She will lead nursing strategy, support clinical excellence and foster a culture of collaboration, safety and continuous improvement across the Manning campus, according to a news release.
She added she is “incredibly thankful” for the new opportunity.
“I look forward to serving not only the community itself, but the nurses and the staff at the hospital and also learning the Clarendon way,” Allison said. “I already
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