Best of Clarendon 2019

191 CATEGORIES

78,893 VOTES

2019 BEST OF

CLARENDON

VOTING BEGINS 03.01.19 THE SUMTER ITEM 1 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

#BESTOFCLARENDON

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

2019 BEST OF

CLARENDON

You Named Us The Best!

Thanks to our BOC customers and friends.

Thanks to you, all our customers and friends in Clarendon and Sumter counties. You’ve made us proud to serve you.

Here’s how you voted to show your confidence in Bank of Clarendon: • Best Bank or Credit Union in Clarendon County • Best Source for a Mortgage Loan in Clarendon County • Best Loan Officers: Mary Ann Morris in Clarendon and Chris Lee in Sumter Come see us. Let us keep showing you our special hometown service.

Mary Ann Morris Banking Officer Consumer Mortgage Lender

Chris L. Lee Senior Vice President

MANNING • SANTEE • SUMMERTON • SUMTER • WYBOO

803 433-4541 bankofclarendon.bank

2 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

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T hank you for voting us

We are honored to be voted Best of Clarendon!

Best Urgent Care Cupcakes, Cakes Cookies & More

We Will See You Today!

1013 Professional Court C Manning, SC

www.colonialhealthcare.com (803) 433-7425

BEST Health Food BEST Cakes & Desserts BEST Locally Owned Business

218 South Mill Street Manning, SC 29102

803.433.BAKE (2253) 803.410.7512 Jennifer “Lucy” Casselman

T-Nail Spa

Professional Nail Care Salon Mon-Thurs: 9:30am - 7:30pm Fri-Sat: 9am - 7pm • Sun: Closed

Walk-ins Welcome!

Thank you for voting us Clarendon’s Best!

2019 BEST OF

CLARENDON

Clarendon

EXTERMINATING COMPANY

803-435-8689

535 S. Mill St. Manning, SC

Thank You!

for voting us BEST Nail Salon

210 Commerce Street • Manning, SC 29102

803.435.0440

Thank You for voting us BEST Flea Market and Consignment Store

BONANZA Flea Market 1048 Bonanza Crossing Rd. • Manning, SC Hours: Th-F 10-5 • Sat 8-4 • Sun 12-5 803-460-0014 • bonanzafleamarket@aol.com Vendors Welcome Inside and Out Daily, Weekly, or Monthly

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

You live in Sumter.

Your news should, too.

Watch new episodes Monday - Friday at TheItem.com

studio@theitem.com I (803) 774-1200 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 3

STAFF PUBLISHER Vince Johnson EDITOR Kayla Robins LAYOUT & DESIGN Cary Howard Ryan Galloway AD SALES Karen Cave Mark Pekuri Xavier Platt Summer Settle COPY EDITING Rhonda Barrick Melanie Smith

Welcome to BEST OF CLARENDON 2019.

We’re glad you’ve found us.

For the first-time ever in this year’s BEST OF CLARENDON contest, we added online voting in addition to printed ballots in The Sumter Item, and voting skyrocketed. More than 75,000 votes made this contest – by far – the largest Best Of contest in the history of Clarendon County.

The pride of the citizens of Clarendon County for its businesses, places, people and events inside this magazine was on full display. We were overwhelmed by your response.

To our winners, thank you for dedication to this community and region. Receive this honor as a badge of success and celebrate it throughout the year. To our voters and readers, thank you for your passion, your commitment and your engagement with this contest and with The Sumter Item. Use this magazine as a resource when making decisions in your everyday lives.

For a full list of winners and nominees in nearly 200 categories, visit www.theitem.com/bestofclarendon.

The Sumter Item dates back to 1894, covering Sumter, Clarendon and Lee counties. While we take great pride in our history, we’re growing into a bolder media organization today.

Over the past year, we revamped our digital presence at www.TheItem.com, added email newsletters, a full video production department and contests like this one. Editor & Publisher magazine, our industry’s leading voice, even named The Sumter Item one of America’s “10 Newspapers That Do It Right” for 2019.

We’re excited about our future in Clarendon County. We’re excited to tell your stories – not only in our printed newspaper and in our magazines but across the growing digital and video platforms, as well.

If you aren’t already a subscriber, we need you on this journey with us. Call us at (803) 774-1200, and we’ll get you set up for complete access to our print and digital products. Building community only happens if we do it together.

Congratulations again to all of our winners. You are BEST OF CLARENDON 2019.

36 W. Liberty St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 774-1200 www.theitem.com 4 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Best Regards, Vince Johnson, Publisher See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Familiar faces. Friendly smiles. A full line of bank services. Local decision-making.

Commitment to the community.

Hometown banking is thriving in Clarendon County. The Bank of Clarendon proves that every day.

BOC offers the banking services customers need and want, provided through the latest technology; but we go many steps further. Our first goal is to provide our business and personal customers with the products and tools you need to make the most of managing your money. Checking and savings accounts, investments, loans, mortgages, online and mobile banking… it’s a long list. And, it’s all available at BOC. An equally important goal is to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve. We show commitment by the way we treat customers in the bank and our neighbors in the community. Our employees seek volunteer opportunities to expand our service and to improve our community and the lives of our neighbors. BOC employees live and work right alongside our customers; in fact, many grew up here in Clarendon County.

We’re proud of our bank and its rich history. BOC opened in Manning in 1932 as our country was pulling out of the depression. Over time, we grew to open offices in Santee, Summerton and Wyboo. In 2009, we took our special brand

of local banking to Sumter and opened a new office in that community.

Now with five full-service offices in three counties, BOC is an important part of the lives of the individuals and businesses we serve. They count on us. In addition to the benefits of local service, customers trust the stability and integrity of the bank, its officers and employees. BOC consistently earns a 5-Star Rating from Bauer Financial, a national firm that monitors bank and credit union performance. This rating is the highest awarded and is conferred only on “superior” banks.

The following words from bank president Barry Ham reflect what makes a local bank different from other financial institutions: “Bank of Clarendon is proud to be selected by our customers and friends as ‘The Best’ in several categories.

That’s what we strive for everyday, to be the best bank for you. Our slogan says, ‘We’re All The Bank You’ll Ever Need.’

It’s more than words. We really believe we can provide the services and expertise you need, and we’re determined to be the bank where you feel welcomed and appreciated.”

Adventure awaits at the Clarendon Club Since 1930, the Clarendon Club has hosted an immeasurable number of individuals, from around the world, searching for the pleasure of the great outdoors. Nestled in the woods and abutting the shores of Lake Marion, the Clarendon Club inhabits a prime destination area of the Southeast renowned for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, events, and retreats. The Clarendon Club Log Book and records detail decades of a family-owned, semi-private establishment that thrived by engaging in the diversity of the outdoor industry. Generational changes eventually led to the sale of the establishment resulting in an unfortunate loss of the Club’s longtime legacy, numerous records, and relics.

In October of 2017, Trey and I had the opportunity to purchase the Clarendon Club. Both from Summerton, we grew up spending most of our time on the water, in the woods, in a field, or in our backyards. As the parents of two children, who prefer the open space of the outdoors, we had a strong desire to ensure a safe, natural area for them. Our plan was to invest into a property that we would enjoy with our family for years to come. In January of 2018, after a considerable amount of research, making plans, more research, changing plans, and heaps of prayer, Trey and I were honored to become the owners of the forgotten Clarendon Club.

We opened the main gates, cabins and barn doors to discover that there was an overwhelming amount of work to do. We did not have a business plan. We did not have A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

experience operating a hunting club/lodge. We did not have an idea of the challenges that lie ahead. We did, however, know that we held the keys to something worth the time, energy and effort. We knew that we were about to begin an adventure. Year one of business is in the books, and we are grateful for each of those days.

Thank you to all of those who have shared their favorite stories, memories, photos and relics from the Clarendon Club with us. Thank you to all of those who have worked to restore the Clarendon Club as a hunting club and lodge in Summerton, SC. Thank you to all of those who have chosen to host their events and/or retreats in the woods. Thank you to our private members for your trust and commitment to the Clarendon Club. Thank you to those who have supported the Clarendon Club by making referrals, sharing social media posts, and/or sharing magazine stories and newspaper ads. Thank you to all of our friends and family who have relentlessly supported our new, family-owned business.

Thank you to all of those who voted for the Clarendon Club as the “Best New Business in 2019.” Thank you, in advance, to those who looking to join us on this adventure!

Graciously, Whitney M. Phillips Owner/Operator

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 5

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Auto & Transportation Aftermarket Auto Repair Walker Tire Co. Inc. Auto Body Shop Richburg Refinishing Auto Parts CARQUEST Auto Parts Boat Dealership Meares Marine LLC Boat Landing Lakevue Landing Campground Car & Truck Accessories Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC Car Audio & Electronics O’Reilly Auto Parts Car Salesperson Thomas (Mac) McElveen

Santee Automotive

Oil Change Walker Tire Co. Inc. Rims/Wheels Store Walker Tire Co. Inc. Towing Service Taylor Made Towing & Recovery Used Car Dealership Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC

Business Auction Company Odom Auction Co Barber Shop LG’s Cut & Style Shoppe Building Design Company Alucoil North America Car Wash C&N Hand Car Wash

Dealership Service Deptartment Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC

Carpet/Flooring Cleaners C&N Cleaning Services

Golf Carts Graham’s Golf Cars

Child Care Center Whacky Kidz Home Childcare

New Car Dealership Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC 6 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Commercial Real Estate Company AgentOwned Realty Co. Copy Shop Quality Shipping and Printing Dance Studio The Dancer’s Workshop Day Spa McLeod Health & Fitness Clarendon Dry Cleaners City Laundry & Cleaners Fitness Center / Gym Get Right Training LLC Floral Company Flowers De Linda’s Funeral Home Stephens Funeral Home Golf Course The Players Course at Wyboo Hair Salon Safe Haven Salon & Boutique Hotel Hampton Inn Manning A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

Thank You for Voting McLeod Health Clarendon as Best of Clarendon.

MCLEOD HEALTH CLARENDON Best Medical Center Best Orthopedic Care

Best Place To Work Best Place to Volunteer

MCLEOD PHYSICIANS & SERVICES Best Family Practice Eagerton Family Practice Best Pediatric Doctor Dr. Lisa Heichberger, McLeod Primary Care Clarendon

Best Hospice Care McLeod Clarendon Hospice Best In Home Care McLeod Clarendon Home Health

Best Day Spa McLeod Health & Fitness Clarendon

McLeod Health Clarendon www.McLeodClarendon.org

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 7

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Insurance Company Lake Marion Insurance Agency LLC

Septic Tanks Robert James Septic Tank Pump

Internet Service Provider FTC

Sign Company TNT Signs

IT Company Southeastern Technology Lumber Company Daniels Hardware & Building Supply

Storage/Utility Buildings OutDoor UpGrades Tanning Salon La Mer Tanning LLC Temp Agency Santee-Lynches One-Stop

Manufacturing Plant Bicycle Corporation of America

Tree Service Ricky’s Tree Service

Martial Arts Jung Shin Taekwon-Do

Trucking Company B&B Farms & Trucking

Massage/Massage Therapist The Comfort Place Massage Werks Nail Salon T Nails Spa Pest Control Clarendon Exterminating Pet Boarding The Dog House Self Storage Facility James Rental 8 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Community Campground Elliott’s Landing & Campground Charity Event Dancing with the Clarendon County Stars Church Summerton Baptist Church

Community Event Striped Bass Festival Event Entertainment Graham Entertainment Tad Graham

Event Venue Owens Farm Firefighter/EMT Jessica Weinberg Law Enforcement Officer Tim Baxley Networking Group Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce Non-Profit Organization Second Chance Animal Rescue Place for Kids to Have Fun Gibbons Street Park Place to Volunteer McLeod Health Clarendon Sports League Bad Medicine Softball

Civic Club Optimist Club of Clarendon

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See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

McLeod Health Clarendon provides comforting and quality care McLeod Health Clarendon, an 81 acute-care bed hospital, is here to provide you and your family the highest-quality healthcare 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 healthcare. Newer with investments in stateof-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 county.

Faster emergency care because of substantial changes to 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 specialist in heart and vascular care and a full line of cancer diagnostic and treatment options. Our excellence

Thank You!

extends from the Midlands to the coast along the border of North and South Carolina – serving more than one million people.

In addition to Clarendon, McLeod Health currently operates seven hospitals, including McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, McLeod Cheraw, McLeod Darlington, McLeod Dillon, McLeod Loris and McLeod Seacoast (North Myrtle Beach).

McLeod also operates urgent care centers in Florence and Darlington, along with nearly 85 medical practices throughout the 18 counties in the McLeod Health service area.

Services include:

• Cardiology • Cardiopulmonary Care • Emergency Department & EMS • Health & Fitness Center & Spa • Home Health • Hospice • Imaging-Mammography, CT & MRI • Infusion Services • Intensive Care Unit (ICU) • Laboratory • McLeod Safe Kids • Orthopedics • Paramedic Program • 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

WE JUST WANT TO SAY

THANK YOU! FOR VOTING US:

to all of our customers for your support.

s Y r e T n I a e l C C & Laundry

400 S. Mill Street Manning, SC 29102

(803)435-2671

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 9

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Eat & Drink American Fayz At The Lake Asian Yummy Japanese Grill Bar The Lake House Barbecue D&H BBQ Breakfast Corner Diner & Grill Brunch Calla Lily Cafe Buffet D&H BBQ Burger Sandwiche Castle Cake & Desserts Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse Catering D&H BBQ Coffee Shop Calla Lily Cafe Deli Sub Station II Family Restaurant D&H BBQ 10 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Fast Food Burger Chick

Seafood Gullah Gullah Fish

Grocery Store Piggly Wiggly

Sports Bar Red’s Place

Health Food Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse

Steak Fayz At The Lake

Hot Dog Burger Chick Ice Cream Store Something Sweet (Fayz At The Lake)

Sweet Tea D&H BBQ Wings Lakevue Landing Campground

Education

Liquor Store Manning Wine & Spirits LLC

Driving School Hands on Driving School

Mexican Mariachi’s Mexican Restaurant

Preschool Laurence Manning Academy

Pizza Georgio’s Restaurant and Pizza

Private School Laurence Manning Academy

Romantic Restaurant Porter Jacks Grill

Public School Walker-Gamble Elementary School

Salads Mill Street Grill

School Administrator Allen Kirby

Sandwiches Sandwiche Castle

Walker Gamble Elementary School

School Teacher Tara Dozier

Manning High School A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

for voting us Best Golf Course in Clarendon for 2019.

The Players Course

Prepare yourself for an unparalleled golfing experience. Our course is a pleasure for golfers of any skill level to play. Test your accuracy with our fairways, water hazards and sand traps; we have everything you need to challenge you and improve your game.

1560 Players Course Dr. Manning, SC 29102

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(803) 478-2500 theplayerscourseatwyboo.com

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 11

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Tutoring Center Helping Hands Tutoring

Financial Advisement Derrick C Fort

Home & Finance

Interior Decorating Company Decorating Den

Accounting Gibbons & Company, CPA, PA Air & Heating Service Gene’s Heating & Air, LLC Apartment Complex Manning Place Apartments Bank/Credit Union Bank of Clarendon Cable/Satellite Company FTC Cleaning Company (Residential) Kim Jones Contractor/Remodeler Buddin Construction Decks & Porches OutDoor UpGrades Electric/Gas Providers Clarendon Gas Fence Company Ridgeway Fence Company

12 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Edward Jones

Landscaping Brewer Lawn Care Mortgage Lender Bank of Clarendon New Home Construction Builder Morris Construction

Real Estate Company Lake Marion Realty Roofing Company Billy Wheeler Tax Preparation Gibbons & Company, CPA, PA

Medical

Cardiologist McLeod Cardiology Associates Clarendon Children’s Dentist Dr. Derek L. Lee, DMD

Nursing Home Lake Marion Nursing Home

Chiropractor Manning Neck & Back

Painters Osborne Painting & Decorating

Dentistry/Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Derek L. Lee, DMD

Pool Company The Swimmin’ Hole Inc.

Dialysis Company Fresenius Kidney Care Manning

Property Management Company Dee’s Rentals Real Estate Agent Peggy J. Haley Real Estate Closing Attorney Billy Coffey

Ear, Nose and Throat Dr. Robert S. Eagerton Family Practice Eagerton Family Practice Hearing Aid Center Sumter Hearing Associates

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See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

Golf along our award-winning course at The Players Course at Wyboo We would like to thank everyone who voted The Players Course at Wyboo the Best Golf Course in Clarendon for 2019. We are very thankful and appreciative of this honor.

The Players Course at Wyboo originally opened for play in 1992 and re-opened in October 2017. The course is under new ownership and has new Tif-Eagle Bermuda greens.

The Players Course is nestled along the shores of Lake Marion. This 18-hole championship golf course is perhaps Santee Cooper Country’s most player-friendly layout. With very little water, this course sets up well for everyone. Tee boxes range from a low of 4,987 yards up to 6,712 yards.

With over 40 years of experience in the golf business, our staff is here to make your experience at The Players Course one you will not soon forget. Some of the amenities you will find include a fully stocked golf shop, snack bar and practice range with short game area, and if you are looking to improve your game we have a PGA Certified Professional on staff ready to assist you with all your needs. The Players Course also offers many different levels of membership, and we are sure you will find one to reach your goals.

Come see what makes us the Best of Clarendon. You will not leave disappointed.

Visit us at www.theplayerscourseatwyboo.com.

The Players Course at Wyboo 1560 Players Course Drive Manning, SC 29102 Kyle Gregory, PGA Head Golf Professional / Club House Manager Grayson Clark Golf Course Superintendent

Dee's Rentals Lake Marion Area Monthly & Long Term Rentals

Thank you for voting us Best Property Management Company Clarendon county has a demand for rental properties.

Give me a call!

803-433-7355

DEE OSTEEN

Mobile: 803-225-7707 Over 25 Years Property Manager Experience

deesrentals@yahoo.com

you for voting us

rty s BEST Paore u g in t o v St for d Supply Rental an

Best Nursery Thank You! 3000 Plowden Mill Road • 495-2391 Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm

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803.702.0020

www.partyinatent.com/manning-sumter BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 13

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Hospice Care McLeod Health Clarendon In-Home Care McLeod Clarendon Home Health Medical Center McLeod Health Clarendon Obstetrics & Gynecology Dr. Robert Ridgeway

Professionals

Civil Attorney Land, Parker & Welch Counselor Meghan Bowden Criminal Defense Attorney Ray Chandler Family Law Attorney Joe Coffey

Optometrist My Eye Dr.

Insurance Agent Bruce Floyd-Coker Insurance Agency

Orthodontist Coulter Orthodontics

Loan Officer Mary Ann Morris

Orthopedic Care McLeod Health Clarendon

Personal Injury Attorney Land, Parker & Welch

Pediatric Doctor Dr. Lisa Heichberger of McLeod Primary Care Clarendon Physical Therapist Southern Lakes Therapy Podiatrist Dr. Corey

Pee Dee Foot Center

Urgent Care Santee Cooper Urgent Care 14 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Personal Trainer Heatherly Brammer Photographer Leah Daugherty Photography LLC Plumber Wayne’s Plumbing and Electric Veterinarian

Wayne Morris

Morris Animal Clinic

Shopping & Commerce Antique Store The MonkeyGrinder Boutique Shop1480 Bridal Shop Special Occasions Bridal & Formalwear Children’s Clothing Store The Children’s Shoppe Consignment Store Bonanza Flea Market Cosmetics Store Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio Feed Store Manning Feed Mill Fishing Store Simpsons Hardware & Sporting Goods Fitness Store Simpsons Hardware & Sporting Goods Flea Market Bonanza Flea Market Furniture Store Farmers Home Furniture A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

Prothro Chevrolet Owned

Your Family

Hometown Dealer since 1926!

VOTED BEST IN 4 CATEGORIES BEST New Car Dealership BEST Used Car Dealership BEST Dealership Service Dept.

BEST Car & Truck Accessories

452 N. Brooks Street • Manning, SC www.prothrochevy.com 803-433-2535 1-800-968-9934

Thank You for voting us

Best of Clarendon!

Thank You!

We will continue to work hard to earn your trust and confidence each day.

For voting us

BEST Seafood Fresh & Delicious Gullah Cuisine and Soulfood We also cater for parties and large orders

Gibbons & Company

Certified Public Accountant, PA Manning, SC 803-435-4316

23 West Boyce Street Manning, SC 29102

803.433.1335

Your child will be ready to take on the world with a Laurence Manning Academy education Laurence Manning Academy was founded in 1972 on the commitment to provide students in grades K3 through 12 with a high-quality education within a safe, friendly and morally rich, Christian environment. After nearly half of a century, Laurence Manning Academy continues to prepare our students to successfully work, lead, live, worship, and play in the ever-changing landscape of the 21st century.

To learn more about the Laurence Manning experience, visit our website at www.laurencemanning.com and call us at (803) 435-2114, Ext. 100 to schedule your personal tour and to meet our staff.

Thank you for voting for us. We can’t wait to welcome you to our family.

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 15

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Gas Station Tanners Gas Station

Nursery Brunson Nursery

Gift Store The Pink Petunia

Paint Store Simpsons Hardware & Sporting Goods

Guns & Firearms Dealer Fully Loaded

Party Rental & Supply Store Party in a Tent Manning

Hardware Store Simpsons Hardware & Sporting Goods Jewelry Store Big T Jewelers Inc. Mattress Store Freedom Furniture & Mattress Men’s Clothing Store Goody’s Music Store Bradham’s Music Studio

Sporting Goods Simpsons Hardware & Sporting Goods Tire Store Walker Tire Co Inc Tobacco Store Carolina Discount Tobacco

Pawn Shop Reliable Pawn Shop

Tuxedo Rental Special Occasions Bridal & Formalwear

Pet Store E&E Farm Garden & Pet

Vape Store Carolina Discount Tobacco

Pharmacy Brunson’s Pharmacy

Women’s Clothing Store Linda’s Boutique

Shoe Store Simpsons Hardware & Sporting Goods

Best of the Best Best Boss Jamie Mathis

Brunson’s Pharmacy

Best Local Industry Bicycle Corporation of America

16 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

Best Locally Owned Business Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse

Best New Business (opened in 2018) Clarendon Club Best Place to Work McLeod Health Clarendon

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

See the full list of winners throughout this magazine and online at TheItem.com/BestOfClarendon.

Thank you for voting us

BEST Private School and BEST PreSchool

Laurence Manning Academy was founded in 1972 on the commitment to providing students in grades K3 through 12 with a high quality education within a safe, friendly, and morally rich, Christian environment. Over forty-five years later, Laurence Manning Academy’s faculty continues to prepare our students to successfully work, lead, live, worship, serve, and play in the ever-changing landscape of the new millennium.

Laurence Manning’s family of dedicated and energetic faculty, staff, and administrators offers a learning environment that promotes student growth at all levels of instruction.

Laurence Manning students receive a quality education as well as a personal experience that enables the development of the whole person. Laurence Manning encourages its students not only to set academic goals for themselves but also to evaluate and motivate themselves in all areas of their school activities and faith.

Students are held accountable for their work and conduct, thereby developing a sense of responsibility and commitment to successfully completing their goals.

K3 - 12 enrollment opportunities are now available for 2019-2020.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with our administrators, tour our campus, and meet our LMA family.

803.435.2114 www.laurencemanning.com Laurence Manning Academy admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, athletics and other school administered programs.

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 17

Come see why Brunson’s Pharmacy was

Voted BEST PHARMACY

Committed to the Health & Well-Being of Our Community

Prescription Refills Christine Brogdon, PharmD RPh Hallie DuBose, PharmD RPh Jamie Mathis, PharmD RPh Voted BEST BOSS! Tommy Benton, RPh, not pictured

Ready in 15 Minutes or Less!

• Over-the-counter & prescription medications • Immune-boosting vitamins & supplements

12 North Brooks Street Manning, SC 29102 803-435-2511 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 - 6:00 Sat. 8:00 - Noon Sun. Closed Additional parking available behind the pharmacy

Most Insurances Accepted, including Tri Care and all Medicare Part D Plans.

18 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

D&H BBQ

BUFFET - DRIVE THRU - CATERING

Thank You

for voting us Best Landscaping

Thank you

for voting us BEST in 5 Categories.

BEST Barbecue BEST Buffet BEST Catering BEST Family Restaurant BEST Sweet Tea

412 S. MILL STREET I MANNING, SC 29102 HENRY BRAILSFORD

803-433-2189

“All things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.”

Romans 8:28

PATRICK BRAILSFORD

Caring for Clarendon County for over a century Brunson’s Pharmacy has been meeting the health care needs and exceeding expectations for a very long time. It is believed that Brunson’s Pharmacy was opened between 1912 and 1913 under the name Zeigler’s Pharmacy. It has changed hands five times over the years, but the level of service and commitment to patients has always remained the top priority.

Brunson’s Pharmacy still has the look and feel of the apothecary pharmacies of the days past but has integrated the modern touches people have come to expect. Our pharmacists all live in Clarendon County and have made a commitment to impacting the lives of all our patients. Our pharmacists have more than 70 years of combined experience and make a commitment to getting to know our customers on a personal level. Jamie Mathis, PharmD, RPh, bought Brunson’s Pharmacy in 2013 and has been modernizing the pharmacy since but has made it a point to keep the hometown feel. He is a lifelong resident of Clarendon County and has committed himself to the growth of our city. He has served as president of the Junior Chamber, on the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce board of directors, was named Business Person of the Year for Clarendon County in 2018, serves on the LMA school board, coaches baseball and softball for the Clarendon County Recreational Department A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

and even coaches a girls travel softball organization called Bad Medicine (which also won Best Sports League).

We offer a full range of prescription services, over the counter medications, durable medical equipment, diabetic supplies, vaccinations, counseling services, hospice services and medication therapy management sessions. We even offer free delivery in town. We accept all forms of prescription insurance, to include Medicare part D, Medicaid, state insurance and Tricare.

We pride ourselves on providing fast and efficient services with most prescriptions being filled in less than 10 minutes while you wait. We even have a gift section to browse around that includes T-shirts, cups, plaques, hand soaps, lotions, greeting cards, flags and Melissa and Doug toys just to name a few. Our staff is comprised of four pharmacists, four technicians, two customer service representatives and a pharmacy intern. We are all committed to making your pharmacy visit as quick and hassle free as possible. We are open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. MondayFriday and 8 a.m.-noon on Saturday. We look forward to serving all our existing and new customers to come with any and all of your health care needs. Come join Brunson’s Pharmacy, where you are more than a prescription number – you are family!

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 19

I, Monica Phan, ow

TANNERS #

2019

Also voted

BEST OF

CLARENDON

Monica Phan OWNER

TANNERS IS YOUR ONE STOP SHOP • 2 LOCATIONS T

3088 ALEX HARVIN HWY. (HWY 301 & RACCOON RD.) • MANNING, SOUTH CAROL 2605 WAREHOUSE BLVD. (HWY 15 SOUTH) • SUMTER, SOUTH CAROLINA

• 100% Gas 87 Octane • 100% Gas 90 Octane • CAM2 Race Gas

• Regular Gas • Big • On Road & Off Road Diesel Boa • Propane Fill Station Whe

WE INVITE YOU TO SEE WHY TANNERS IS VOTED #1 • FRIENDLY SERVICE Y

20 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

wner, would like to thank you all my wonderful customers for voting us at

#1 GAS STATION IN CLARENDON 5 years in a row for Best of Sumter!

DAILY KITCHEN SELECTION

TO SERVE YOU

LINA • (803) 473-2050 • (803) 506-2804

parking spaces for at Trailers, RV’s & 18 eelers

YOU CAN COUNT ON...

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Great Foods • Pizza • Hamburgers Subs • Hot Dogs • Chicken Wings Hot Bar–Breakfast and Lunch

FULL SERVICE CONVENIENCE STORE

Beer • Wine • Cigarettes Lottery • ATM • Clean Bathrooms Bait & Tackle • Deer Corn • Garden Soil Flea Market on Friday & Saturday on our corner lot.

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 21

Delicious food, family friendly atmosphere and entertainment on the lake Donny and Dana opened Fayz at the Lake in December 2014, following the footsteps of their mothers who were in the food service industry all their lives. They have made their restaurant into a family friendly environment with delicious homestyle cooking and desserts. They have since added the Something Sweet Ice Cream Shop, which is a treat enjoyed by customers of all ages. During the summer season, they have outside entertainment at lakeside, offering a relaxing setting to enjoy food, family and friends.

Come by lake or land! Open seven days a week.

Fayz at the Lake is the place where family and friends gather. Located at 13028 SC-260, in Manning. (803) 478-3805 Thank you for voting us Best American Food, Best Steak and Best Ice Cream!

Coker Insurance Agency, Inc. Home, Auto, Life Insurance & More

Bruce Floyd, Agent PO Box 277 • Turbeville, SC 29162 Phone: 843-659-2120 • Fax: 843-659-2218 E-mail: brucecokerinsag@ftc-i.net

Thank you for voting me Best Insurance Agent

Donny and Dana

Thank You

1

for Voting Us #1 Donny - Dana & The Fayz Staff

Fayz

FRIENDS & FAMILY

GATHER HERE

Open 7 days a week 11am - 9pm Fri. & Sat.

11am - 8pm Mon. - Thurs.

11am - 3pm Sun.

13028 Hwy 260 • Manning, SC 29102 Photo courtesy of Brittany Briley Photography 22 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

803-478-3805

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THANK YOU for voting us

Walker Gamble Elementary & Allen Kirby want to say

2019 BEST OF

Best Public School & Allen Kirby as

Best School Administrator in Best of Clarendon 2019

CLARENDON

Allen Kirby

2019 BEST OF

Stay on target N

CLARENDO

INDOOR PISTOL RANGE

Thank You

for voting us BEST Guns & Firearms Dealer 1510 GREELEYVILLE HWY. • MANNING

803-720-4062

MONDAY - SATURDAY 10AM - 10PM

FACEBOOK.COM/FULLYLOADEDLLC

WWW.FULLYLOADEDSC.COM

SANTEE AUTOMOTIVE

Thank you for voting

Mac McElveen BEST Car Salesperson

843-372-8133

Don’t make a mistake!

Shop the lake!

Tanners – more than a gas station, 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 improve my 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 a smile on their face.

I’ve worked so hard to be able to own my own store to serve Manning, Sumter and the surrounding area with all their fuel-up, 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 four 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.

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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 that most important part of my business. My reliable and caring staff has been here through hurricanes and snow, using 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 either of our locations on U.S. 301 in Manning or 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 soon.

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 23

LAKESIDE Life outdoors from Wateree to Santee

Lakeside is an award-winning bi-monthly lifestyle magazine that features people, events and trends that are near or appeal to those who live at or around the lakes of the Midlands. From Wateree to Santee, we cover Clarendon, Sumter and Lee counties as well as Berkeley, Kershaw and Orangeburg. From hunting and fishing to hiking and everything in between that involves life outdoors, we want to tell the stories of you and your neighbors’ lives.

We always want to hear from you.

Please email us with your story ideas or to submit photos of your time outdoors at kayla@theitem.com.

LAKESIDE L I F E O U T D O O R S F R O M WAT E R E E T O S A N T E E

APRIL - MAY 2019

The Festival issue Everything you need to know about upcoming events in the area: ArtFields Downtown Sumter Microbrew Festival Iris Festival Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Festival Festival on the Avenue Derby Day

The 40th annual Striped Bass Festival To learn more about promotingAlsoyour business toGuidethe region’s inside: The official puddin' Swamp Festival largest local media audience, contact marketing@theitem.com or your Sumter Item sales representative.

Your official guide to the weekend of fishing and family fun

24 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

BERKELEY • CLARENDON • KERSHAW • ORANGEBURG • SUMTER

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Southern Lakes Therapy 297 W. Boyce St., Manning, SC (803) 433-9001

SOUTHERN LAKES THERAPY PROVIDES QUALITY PATIENT CARE

BE INFORMED THE CHOICE IS YOURS!

Thank You!

for voting us Best Physical Therapist

New Patients seen within 24-48 hours

(excluding weekends) Most Insurance companies accepted

Physical Therapy services include, but not limited to: • Joint replacements • Sports injuries • Pediatrics

• Orthopaedic surgeries • Back, neck and joint pain • Neurological disorders

Living with kidney disease can still mean a good life

Your dialysis should fit into your life – not the other way around.

You’ll find convenient locations, including Fresenius Kidney Care Manning, close to where you live and work, making it easier for you to get to appointments and stay on your treatment schedule. We also offer a full range or treatment choices and personalized care from staff that knows little things make a big difference – every day.

Take our free class to learn about living with chronic kidney disease.

Knowing what to plan for after diagnosis can help you figure out which steps to take, now or in the future.

Our free class covers: • Symptoms and stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) • Treatment options • Eating well with kidney disease • Coping and getting support • Resources available to you Learn more. Take steps. Live well. Come learn how to manage your kidney health.

Fresenius Kidney Care Manning 3107 Sumter Hwy. | Manning, SC 29102 (803) 505-2121 | www.FreseniusKidneyCare.com

Ready to thrive on dialysis?

We’re ready for you Fresenius Kidney Care treats the whole you, offering quality dialysis options, as well as education, support and inspiration to help you live a full life.

Fresenius Kidney Care Manning 3107 Sumter Hwy Manning, SC 29102

Make an appointment today. Learn more about your treatment options and how you can thrive on dialysis.

Stop by or call 1-803-505-2121.

FreseniusKidneyCare.com © 2019, Fresenius Medical Care, All Rights Reserved.

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 25

Let Peggy Haley help you find the real estate of your dreams

Peggy Haley started in the real estate business in 2004. She is very dedicated in providing professional, friendly service with a smile and laugh. A native to Manning, she has a full working knowledge of this small, warm, friendly town and its surrounding areas of Lake Marion.

Many clients and friends would say that this is definitely her career, but to her, this is her passion. Within about the first 15 minutes of your time with her, you will surely agree. She takes her time with you to really understand what type of property you are looking for. Her non-pressured approach allows you to concentrate on what is best for you by providing the opportunities available.

Her interest in you is to guide you to make sure that your investment in the property is well-spent, whether it is your next home or business. As you will see, she not only provides you with showing you the home or business, but she also happily suggests what you may do with it to improve it. It may be as simple as cosmetic updates or even some small reconstruction. This comes from her own experience within her own home as well as her children’s.

Property types Peggy sells are residential, waterfront, lake area, commercial, hunting land and farm land, foreclosure and rental property. The areas she services are, but not limited to, Manning, Summerton, Eutawville, Vance, Elloree, Santee, Rimini, Panola, Paxville, Alcolu, Wyboo, Goat Island, Taw Caw and Lake Marion.

Thank you for voting Piggly Wiggly the

best grocery store!

It’s our pleasure to serve you.

piggly wiggly Your neighborhood one-stop shopping experience.

36 Sunset Drive, Manning, SC 29102

Main: (803) 433-2118

Deli: (803) 433-8544

Pharmacy: (803) 433-2412

Thank You for voting me

best real estate agent.

I appreciate your loyalty through the years.

Peggy Haley • 803-460-4997 26 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

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Happily married couple serving community with everything from burgers and sandwiches to diamonds and emeralds Need your jewelry repaired or cleaned? Thinking about popping the question to your special someone? While we take care of your jewelry needs, why not grab a delicious sandwich or burger at a locally owned restaurant? Big T Jewelers and The Sandwich Castle have served our community’s jewelry and dining desires for the last 50 years. Kenny Tidwell, the owner of Big T Jewelers, is the face of the family owned and operated jewelry store in its current location for the last 30 years. His wife, Tammye Tidwell, divides her time between helping customers find the perfect piece of jewelry at Big T Jewelers and serving the patrons at The Sandwich Castle.

We want to express our sincere appreciation and thanks to our Clarendon community members for recognizing us with the awards for Best Jewelry Store, Best Sandwich and Best Burger. We are grateful for our community’s trust and the friendships that we have built through our businesses over the years. We take pride in treating all of our customers with professional and high-quality service whether it be from behind a jewelry counter or during meal time. We look forward to thanking you all personally in the months to come!

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 27

Lake Marion Insurance team protects our friends and works for them

Founded in 2015 by Ashley Fry Martin and Stephanie Barkley, Lake Marion Insurance prides itself on commitment to community. While serving Clarendon, Sumter and Lee counties primarily, our reach also extends statewide. In 2016, Courtney Brown joined our team making a total of three agents on staff. April M. Allen is our account executive who strives to provide the best service to our clients daily. Liz Harrington will meet you at the door upon arrival to our office, and her smile is one you won’t soon forget. While we are humbled at the success of our agency, we know for certainty it is owed solely to our Lord who provides for all things as well as the loyalty of our clients – the best part of Lake Marion Insurance. This award will be proudly displayed for years to come and we are so grateful to insure the needs of our friends.

28 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

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ELLIOTT’S LANDING & CAMPGROUND 2010 Elliott’s Landing Rd. Pinewood, SC 29125

(803) 452-5336

Located On Lake Marion At Rimini •

Thank you for voting us

BEST CAMPGROUND • 30/50 Amp Power Box • 47 Campsites • Full Hookups • Two Bath Houses • 300 ft. Fishing Pier • Camp Store On Site • FREE Wi-Fi • Boat Rentals Available

9am-6pm Tues.-Fri., Sat. 7:30 am-6pm www.elliottscampground.com • Alice Weathersbee, Owner

2019 BEST OF

CLARENDON

THANK YOU for voting Best Pool Company • Above & In-ground Pools • Spas • Services & Supplies • Pool Cleaning • Water Analysis • Outdoor Kitchen

213 East Boyce Street • Manning, SC 29102

The old Southern Flair location, near Sparrow Tractor

Visit Our New! Location

(803) 433-7946 (SWIM) Mark & Amber Prickelmyer

fb.com/theswimminholeinc

Thank You

Buying property is a big deal. Lake Marion Realty is here for you.

The team of Lake Marion Realty LLC would like to thank you for voting us the Best Real Estate Company in 2019! We are excited and humbled to receive this honor from our community.

Lake Marion Realty LLC is locally owned, and our agents are life-long residents of the community with more than 20 years of experience in the industry.

We handle residential, commercial and land sales and rental property leasing. Understanding that real estate purchases and sales are some of the most important decisions one makes as a property owner, our mission is to manage the details of these transactions to ensure they are handled as smoothly as possible. Our clients’ happiness and complete satisfaction is our No. 1 goal as we strive to provide the exceptional service you deserve. We at Lake Marion Realty are proud of our community and honored to serve you!

for voting us Best Real Estate Company in 2019.

Betsy Brown

Debbie Lee

Johnny Odom

Patty Wood

Sherry Compton

Ron Kersten

LAKE MARION REALTY (803) 433-7355 • 1830 Greeleyville Hwy • Manning, SC • www.LakeMarionRealty.net

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 29

Your vehicle will run great with CarQuest Auto Parts

W

e may be at a new location, but we’ve kept our old values of running the best local auto parts store with the best customer service in Manning.

Thank you to all our loyal and new customers who voted CarQuest Auto Parts of Manning Best Auto Parts Store in the 2019 Best of Clarendon contest.

We are a family owned and veteran run business with eight locations, and we’re planning to branch out even more after having moved to 541 Mill St. this April.

We offer custom mixed paint, on-site hydro hose, light and heavy-duty truck parts, small engine parts and a knowledgeable staff who 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.

2019 BEST OF

CLARENDON

Thank you for voting us

BEST PIZZA

Pizza • Pasta • Subs • American Cuisine

5978 Alex Harvin Hwy., Manning, SC (803) 473-5900

THANK YOU for voting us BEST AUCTION

ODOM AUCTION CO. ALSO HOME OF LAKE ROAD ANTIQUES

531 S. MILL ST., MANNING, SC 29102 ODOMAUCTION.COM

SCAL #4219

Thank you Clarendon for voting us

BEST PLACE TO BUY AUTO PARTS

541 S. Mill Street Manning, SC

803.433.4949

Mon-Fri: 7:30am-6pm • Sat. 7:30am - 5pm YOUR FULL LINE PART STORE WHERE YOU GET IT ALL! PARTS • AUTO PAINT MIXED TO MATCH • HYDRAULIC HOSES MADE HERE 30 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

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Thank you for voting for us!

You

2019 BEST OF

are why we do what we love doing.

THE COMFORT PLACE

CLARENDON Thank you for voting

FTC

Diana Brunson

803-840-8015

Pam Timmons

803-460-1050 308 E. Boyce St.

Across the street from John Deere and next to the Corner Diner

Schedule online at schedulicity.com

Like us on ...

THE BEST OF CLARENDON! BEST INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER

Thank you for voting us

Best Dance Studio

BEST CABLE/ SATELLITE COMPANY

I

212 S Mill St., Man

ning, SC (803) 473-8659

39 Years of Excellence in Dance

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IRELESS W

VOICE

CURITY SE

TAL T IGI

V

ERNET NT

D

ONE STOP. FIVE STARS.

ftc.net | 888-218-5050 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 31

Striped Bass Festival named best event in Clarendon

Thank you for voting us

Best Place for Kids to Have Fun

On behalf of the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce, we thank you for voting for us! We are honored and grateful to be awarded the Best Community Event and Best Networking Group awards for the 2019 Best of Clarendon. The Striped Bass Festival is a much-anticipated annual event for citizens and visitors alike that would not be possible without our sponsors and volunteers. We would like to thank them for their continued support.

The Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce exists to promote and support businesses in Clarendon County, and we thank you for supporting our efforts.

Please follow us on Facebook and visit our website at www.clarendoncounty.com to stay up to date on Clarendon County events and activities.

Thank you for voting me Best Interior Designer for 2019!

Proudly serving Clarendon, Sumter and surrounding areas.

Sherry Compton 803-478-8898

scompton@decoratingden.com sherrycompton.decoratingden.com

Thank You! We are honored and grateful to be awarded the Best Community Event and Best Networking Group awards for the 2019 Best of Clarendon.

www.clarendoncounty.com 32 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

The Striped Bass Festival is a much

anticipated annual event for citizens and visitors alike which would not be possible without our sponsors and volunteers.

We would like to thank them for their continued support.

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2019 BEST OF

CLARENDON

Thank you for voting us

Manning Feed Mill honored to keep growing with Clarendon after century of business

Best of Clarendon WALKER TIRE Serving your tire needs since 1956.

114 S. Mill Street • Manning

433-4444

Tires • Brakes • Alignment

Thank You for Voting

5 West Boyce St., Manning, SC | 803-433-5437 10:30am–5:30pm Tues.-Fri. and 10:30–2:00pm on Sat. ..

Thank you for voting Manning Feed Mill and Supply for Clarendon’s Best Feed Store. We are honored to receive this prestigious award. Manning Feed Mill is a South Carolinabased farm and feed store dedicated to providing highquality livestock feeds and products at affordable prices.

Our focus is on customer satisfaction and the health of your pets and livestock.

We are a veteran- and family-owned business that serves Manning and surrounding areas. We specialize in livestock feed and custom blend livestock and horse feeds.

Our feeds are made using natural and processed grains purchased from local farmers. This allows us to support our local farmers.

Over the years, changes have been made to accommodate our growing business. We have added delivery and restocking abilities as well as expanded our inventory. In 2017, Manning Feed Mill built a new store separate from the mill. The store allows us to carry a broader selection of livestock and pet products making it a one stop shop.

Manning Feed Mill was built more than 100 years ago and is one of a few active feed mills in South Carolina. We continue to be a part of Clarendon County’s business and farming community.

Thank You for voting Manning Feed Mill and Supply

The BEST FEED STORE

MFM

in Clarendon County

Livestock Feeds, Supplies

Bee Keeping Supplies

Horse Feeds & Supplies Used Saddles & Tack Too!

Chickens, Ducks & Rabbits

Locally-made Goats Milk Soap & Bath Fizzies

Quality Specialty Feeds For Livestock & Pets

WE MAKE OUR FEED WITH LOCAL GRAINS!

233 Dinkins Street, Manning, SC 29102 (803)435-4354 A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 33

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 the state of 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, car audio, holsters, ammo, air conditioners, TVs, computers, lawn mowers, microwaves, fax machines, printers, cameras, bicycles, fishing equipment and much more. We specialize in firearms and jewelry, with new and pre-owned fine jewelry gracing each of our stores in Sumter and Manning and selections that are unrivaled in the area.

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!

Thank You!

for voting us BEST Nursing Home

A Division of

1527 Urbana Road Summerton, SC 29148

803-485-2317

Lake Marion NURSING HOME

Thank You for voting us Best Roofing Company

Wheeler Roofing Shingles, Metal, TPO Flat Roof Systems, any and all repairs, no job too big or small... we do them all.

803-460-4101

T hank you for voting us #1!

We strive to provide excellent service to our clients

2019

We invite you to come BEST OF N O D N see us CLARE today!

Always Buying Gold! www.reliablepawnshop.com

18 N. Brooks Street, Downtown Manning 33 West Liberty Street, Downtown Sumter 34 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

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Thank you for supporting the tri-county’s nationally acclaimed local news outlet

I

t’s been a year for the books – and award plaques – at The Sumter Item.

From the content and design of the 125-year-old newspaper to video to the way we run our Best Of contests, to our small, dedicated staff at The Item has been honored to receive a handful of different awards, both statewide and nationally.

Editor and Publisher magazine, the nation’s premier magazine for the newspaper industry, placed The Sumter Item on its 2019 list of “10 Newspapers That Do It Right” mainly for the team’s work on Studio Sumter, the paper’s video production department.

“Studio Sumter was impressive to us especially because of the size of the paper and to be able to do video with that small of a staff and at that quality,” said Nu Yang, managing editor of the magazine.

The premier video series of Studio Sumter, Sumter Today, posts a new episode every weekday to TheItem.com and was viewed more than 500,000 in its first year. The week before that list was announced, Second Street Media, the media industry’s leader in contests and promotions, named our Best of A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Sumter contest the Best Citywide Ballot in the nation for our 2018 contest.

Studio Sumter also won Best Innovation for 2018 in the S.C. Press Association’s annual PALMY Advertising Contest.

The Sumter Item’s newsroom won 13 awards from the press association for work done in 2018, ranging in honors for writing, photography, video and page design at the organization’s annual news contest.

The six first-place awards the staff took home included two episodes of Sumter Today, one feature article and three photos, one of which was named Best of the Best in its category. The four second-place awards included two for front-page design, one photo and one episode of Sumter Today. The three third-place awards included one for front-page design, one photo and one episode of Sumter Today.

We are here everyday for you, our community. To improve it and to hold it accountable. Thank you for your support and trust because it takes you to make all of this possible.

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 35

Photos courtesy of McLeod Health Clarendon

Change for the better Words by Bruce Mills

Many rural communities are feeling the negative effects of losing their community hospital.

Clarendon County is not among them.

G

iven the ever-changing landscape of the health care industry, most would consider it as a move for the better, and so does McLeod Health Clarendon Administrator Rachel Gainey.

In the last several years, the health care industry has seen escalating costs, changes in reimbursements from the federal government and other changes that have made it burdensome financially on small independent provider hospitals, especially in rural areas, said Gainey, three years on the other side of the 36 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

merger between Clarendon Memorial Hosptial into the larger McLeod Health System.

Numerous economies of scale and consolidations of services can be achieved by joining a hospital system, and Clarendon Memorial did exactly that in July 2016 when it was acquired by Florence-based McLeod Health.

Gainey says it’s been a “good marriage” because both organizations shared the same values of quality, service and community-based care.

With the acquisition, McLeod Health has been able to expand its footprint in South Carolina to a 12-county service area from the Midlands to the coast. When including border counties along the state line with North Carolina, that region expands to 18 counties.

Clarendon has been able to maintain its heartbeat as a community by keeping a community-based hospital in Manning.

Gainey noted in the 21st-century world of economic development and site

Rachel Gainey, administrator, McLeod Health Clarendon

selection, businesses and industries are looking for thriving communities to settle their employees. Fundamental for that are good educational systems and good health care opportunities. Without a hospital, A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

counties will find success in economic development harder to achieve.

‘NEWER, BETTER, FASTER’ McLeod’s goal is not to just maintain the status quo in Clarendon with a hospital facility in light of the everincreasing industry challenges. Instead, it’s looking to transform health care in this region of the state with a tagline of “Newer, Better, Faster” to paint the picture.

Since the acquisition, McLeod has been able to make new investments in numerous lines of equipment, technology and facility upgrades at McLeod Health Clarendon, Gainey said.

In the area of people, McLeod has changed the culture of the workplace. As an example, at the time of the acquisition, the hospital’s vacancy rate for nurses was about 20%. Now, that rate is down to 2.5%.

The total vacancy rate for all employees is currently between 2.5% and 3.5%.

“We have put a lot of focus into our people,” Gainey said, “and we now have an environment where people want to A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

work here. We don’t have as much turnover.”

Under the “Better” category, the hospital has hired four new physicians in the last year and in the near future is looking to build out its medical office building to expand physician office practices to bring in more doctors to the area.

Currently, the acute care hospital offers primary care, OB/GYN, general surgery and orthopedics, she said.

“But, our intent is when we build out our medical office building,” Gainey said, “then we will have additional space for primary care and space for specialists to come over and have clinics in this area on a rotating basis so that we can expand that access. Also, then we’re looking to expand our orthopedics and our general surgery practices here.”

As for “Faster,” McLeod Health Clarendon has made vast improvements in its emergency room department since 2016, according to Gainey, decreasing patient wait time and process inefficiencies.

The median turnaround time for an ER

visit to the hospital now has been reduced to about two hours, which is less than the national average, she said. McLeod Health Clarendon has sustained that shortened ER visit time for the last two years, seen a 25% increase in total volume visits and increased patient satisfaction scores.

With the addition of McLeod Health Clarendon, there are now seven hospitals in the McLeod Health system, and it’s the second-largest hospital system in South Carolina.

A 16-year veteran with McLeod Health, Gainey said the system has found the merger to be a good fit.

“McLeod Health has enjoyed the beginnings of our journey in this region,” she said, “and we trust that patients will look to McLeod Health as the choice for medical excellence. At the end of the day, we are here to serve the patients and ensure we are meeting the needs of those who live in this region.”

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 37

Crawfish Landing

Words by Sharron Haley | Photos by Micah Green 38 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Elliott's Landing and Campground has been in the same family since Lake Marion was created. Now, the second and third generations are using their crawfish ponds to keep the crowds coming.

N

estled on the shores of Lake Marion in the northwestern corner of Clarendon County near Rimini is one of the county’s oldest landings, Elliott’s Landing and Campground, at 2010 Elliott’s Landing Road in Pinewood.

“It’s a family tradition,” said Alice Weathersbee, whose parents, L.T. and Sandra Elliott, ran the business for 53 years before selling it to their daughter and her husband, Gary. “I grew up in the business. We bought it, and we’re getting it back to where it used to be.”

The Elliott family has been living in the area that lies about a mile from the Sumter County line and just down the road from the popular Sparkleberry Swamp since the early 1900s when Weathersbee’s grandfather, R.F. Elliott, moved there. When the Santee River was dammed in the early 1940s to supply hydroelectricity in accordance with President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, Elliott sold 150 acres of his property to make way for Lake Marion. In 1946, he established Elliott’s Landing at about the same time that fishing became popular on the man-made 110,000-acre lake.

In 1964, Weathersbee’s parents took over the reins at the landing and ran it until they retired in 2017.

Weathersbee, her husband and their son, Tyler, all work in their family owned and operated business.

“I couldn’t do all of this without Gary,” she said. “He’s my business partner and helps keep things going.”

Weathersbee also said their son is a wonderful asset to have around the business.

“The landing and campground have been a part of life ever since I can remember,” Weathersbee said.

“I just love taking on the tradition. I could not imagine not doing it.”

Weathersbee said she worked in retail for seven years before her parents’ decision to retire.

“When my parents wanted to

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retire, I couldn’t see them selling to anyone else,” she said. “Business has been good. The campground stays full. The Lord has really blessed us.”

The landing and campground are a one-stop shop for recreational fishing and relaxation on Lake Marion.

“We have everything a family or fisherman needs from bait to tackle to food and ice,” Weathersbee said.

“We have RV hookups with 30-amp and 50-amp service along with sewer and water.”

Weathersbee said the venue even has a 300-foot lighted pier that is open 24/7. The charge to fish off the pier is just $5 a day.

“Fishing off the pier has been tremendous this year,” she said.

“One person caught a 33-pound blue catfish, and another person pulled in a 37-pound flathead. Shellcracker, bream and blue gills are also biting really good.”

Kayaking is also a popular recreational activity at Elliott’s Landing and Campground.

“Kayakers love it here,” Weathersbee said. “We offer single and group rates.”

Elliott’s Landing also rents Jon boats with six-horsepower outboard motors, and, for the fun-loving recreationalists, Elliott’s also has pedal boats for rent by the day.

“Grandparents really love renting the pedal boats,” Weathersbee said. “They love taking out their grandchildren for some fun on the lake.”

But, right now, the most popular item at Elliott’s Landing is its crawfish.

“We sell it for $4.25 a pound,” Weathersbee said. “It’s hard to keep up with the demand. We get between 20 and 25 calls a day for crawfish.”

Whether it’s for a Lowcountry boil, jambalaya, ettouffee or just boiled straight up crawfish, Elliott’s Louisiana Red Swamp Crawfish are in high demand.

“It’s like gold,” she said.

“Everybody wants them.”

It’s a good thing the Weathersbees have a dozen crawfish ponds to supply the high demand.

They begin prepping for the next crawfish season in the fall.

“Every year in October, we drain all the ponds, and we plant rice and put in the crawfish,” Weathersbee said. “We bring the water back up.

We begin harvesting the crawfish in late February or early March.

It’s all according to the outside temperatures. The colder it is in February, the more sluggish the crawfish are.”

Tyler Weathersbee, 15, harvests them.

“We set 300 to 350 traps, and Tyler checks the traps every day,” Weathersbee said. “He dumps the crawfish in a tub and rebaits the trap. The crawfish are put into containers at the store where we have water constantly flowing that cleans and purges the crawfish.”

Tyler is also an alligator wrangler.

His mother said that a couple of years ago, he killed a 12-foot-long alligator in one of their crawfish ponds.

“We just got the alligator’s hide back, and it’s on display in the store,” she said.

Weathersbee said the landing and campground are perfect for people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of working and being in the city.

According to their website, when you’re at Elliott’s Landing and Campground, “you do not want to be anywhere else!”

“This is the place to relax,” she said. “Get away from the rat race and spend a day on the lake.”

“According to my husband, in Rimini, time stops,” she said with a laugh. “That’s not a bad thing.

It’s a great place for families to get together and enjoy the outdoors.

It’s a family atmosphere where everyone can find something to enjoy.”

BEST OF CLARENDON 2019 39

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Established 1930

40 BEST OF CLARENDON 2019

(803) 460-9379

1219 Dingle Pond Rd., Summerton, SC 29148

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM