Best of Clarendon 2020

191 CATEGORIES

75,454 VOTES

2020 THE SUMTER ITEM 1 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

#BESTOFCLARENDON

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Thank you for voting us

Best Jeweler

Manning Early Childhood Center

VOTED BEST PRESCHOOL IN THE BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

Clarendon District 2 Rosa Stokes, Principal

2020

Dr. Shawn Johnson, Superintendent Kelli Bellant, Assistant Principal

r

Big T Jewelers Established in 1969

520 West Boyce St. Manning, SC 29102

(803) 435-8094

Monday - Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-3pm

Thank you for once again voting us

Best PIace for Kids to Have Fun

2565 Player’s Course Dr. Manning, SC 29102 803-478-7899, 888-245-9300

www.wyboogolfclub.com

Thank you for voting us BEST Private School & BEST School Administrator: Tripp Boykin We are thankful to receive your vote as Best Private School and Tripp Boykin is honored to be this year’s Best of Clarendon School administrator.

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.

2 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

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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 OB/GYN Practice McLeod Women’s Care Clarendon

Best Cardiologist McLeod Cardiology Associates

Best Pediatrician Dr. Lisa Heichberger

Best Vein Specialist Dr. Gabor Winkler

Best In Home Care McLeod Clarendon Home Health

Best Day Spa The Spa at McLeod Health Clarendon

McLeod Health Clarendon www.McLeodClarendon.org

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

62412-MH Best of Clarendon.indd 1

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 3

5/27/20 11:43 AM

STAFF

PUBLISHER Vince Johnson EDITOR Kayla Green

LAYOUT & DESIGN Ryan Galloway Janel Strieter AD SALES Karen Cave Devin McDonald Mark Pekuri

2020

COPY EDITING Rhonda Barrick Melanie Smith

On behalf of The Sumter Item staff, I’d like to officially welcome you to BEST OF CLARENDON 2020.

36 W. Liberty St. Sumter, SC 29150 (803) 774-1200 www.theitem.com 4 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

Throughout this magazine, you’ll find more than 190 winners across business and industry, public service and education. These winners have been chosen by you. And by ‘you' I mean a lot of you. Best of Clarendon, in only its second year, has grown to more than 75,000 votes.

Winners are your neighbors and your friends.

Between the voting period and the production of this magazine, however, our world changed.

COVID-19 has impacted our community’s physical and economic health. It put enormous pressure on many of these winners, the winners that make up the fabric of the Clarendon County community.

Now more than ever, we must support our neighbors and friends represented throughout these pages. Use this magazine as a guide for your spending and your support. Use our winners’ website at www.theitem.com/bestofclarendon throughout your life. Find an accountant, a hair stylist or place to take the kids.

At The Item, it’s our honor to promote these valuable local businesses and organizations, and it’s been our privilege to serve our region for more than 125 years. Thank you for allowing us to be your local news source.

Eat local. Read local. Shop local. Support local.

Congratulations to all of our winners, and we hope you enjoy the pages to come.

Best Regards, Vince Johnson Publisher, The Sumter Item

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

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

Leading the way in a season of transformation in Clarendon County health care

Clarendon Health System joined McLeod Health on July 12, 2016, and began a transformation that continues today. 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 comprehensive cancer care. Our excellence extends from the Midlands to the coast, and we serve over one million people.

McLeod Health Clarendon, an 81-acute-care-bed hospital, provides patients the highest-quality health care. Our highly skilled physicians and medical staff provide a wide range of medical services.

McLeod Health Clarendon is committed to medical excellence with investments in state-of-the-art equipment, access to new technology and renovations.

We continue to recruit new specialists, and the McLeod Health Residency Program is designed to bring greater access to primary care to our area. Changes to patient intake and assessment in our Emergency Department have resulted in significantly shorter wait times and improved patient flow.

Future plans at McLeod Health Clarendon include a new medical office building with access to specialty physician practices. In Sumter, we plan to continue expansion with recruitment of specialty services, advancements in clinical and quality care and upgrades in technology.

Including Clarendon, McLeod Health currently operates seven hospitals, also including McLeod Regional Medical Center in Florence, McLeod Cheraw, McLeod Darlington, McLeod Dillon, McLeod Loris and McLeod Seacoast (North Myrtle Beach). McLeod Health also has an outpatient medical complex in Carolina Forest offering emergency medicine, primary care, specialty care and outpatient rehabilitation services.

McLeod operates urgent care centers in Florence and Darlington, along with nearly 90 medical practices throughout the 18 counties in our service area.

If you are looking for a new medical home or to learn more about McLeod Health, visit www.McLeodHealth.org.

The best place for your pets and livestock needs Thank you for voting Manning Feed Mill and Supply Clarendon’s Best Feed Store. We are honored to receive this prestigious award. We are a veteran- and family owned business dedicated to providing high-quality livestock feeds and products at affordable prices. Our focus is on customer satisfaction and the health of your pets and livestock.

Our feeds are made with formulations that have been created with the knowledge and experience gained from customers and Mr. Hynes, the previous owner. Our feeds are registered, regulated and monitored by the S.C. Department of Agriculture. Appropriate amounts of value-adding ingredients are supplemented with vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet that meets individual needs. Custom-blended feeds are made to the same standards as our registered feeds.

We use grains purchased from local farmers. Buying local allows us to use fresh products and support our local farming communities. None of our feeds contain medications or steroids. For our customers who want organic, processed or medicated feeds, we offer a variety of quality feeds from other mills.

We also stock everything you need to keep pets and livestock healthy, including medical supplies, fencing and much more. From head to hoof, we have the A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

products to keep your animals healthy and safe!

Need a saddle? We have several gently used as well as other tack and equipment. For stable maintenance, we have shavings and an assortment of barn equipment. Manning Feed Mill usually has live poultry year 'round. For pets, we have a wide variety of pet products, including medications, shampoos, flea and tick control and more!

When it comes to pests, we carry a number of insect and rodent control measures as well as snake repellents. Our lawn and garden section has everything you need to grow vegetables, flowers, forage and deer plots. You can even stock your pond twice a year during our fish days.

Over the years, changes have been made to accommodate our growing business. In 2017, Manning Feed Mill built a new store. The store allows us a broader selection of livestock and pet products, making it a one-stop shop.

Manning Feed Mill has been an integral part of Manning’s farming community. The mill was built over 100 years ago and is one of a few active feed mills in South Carolina. Manning Feed Mill and Supply continues to be an integral part of Clarendon County’s business and farming community.

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 5

2020

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 NAPA Auto Parts Stuckey Brothers Parts Co. Car Audio & Electronics Advance Auto Parts

Oil Change Ervin’s Tires

Dance Studio The Dancer’s Workshop

Rims/Wheels Store Walker Tire Co. Inc.

Day Spa The Zone

Towing Service Bob’s Body Shop Used Car Dealership Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC

Business Auction Company Odom Auction Co. Barber Shop Shoppe On Brooks

Nicole Marlowe

Dry Cleaners City Laundry & Cleaners Inc Fitness Center/Gym Anytime Fitness Floral Company Flowers De Linda’s Funeral Home Stephens Funeral Home

Golf Course Building Design Company Alucoil North America Players Course at Wyboo Car Wash C&N Hand Car Wash

Hair Salon Cut-N-Up

Carpet/Flooring Cleaners C&N Cleaning Services

Hotel Hampton Inn Manning

Child Care Center Whacky Kidz Home Childcare

Insurance Company Lake Marion Insurance Agency LLC

Golf Carts Graham’s Golf Carts

Commercial Real Estate Company Agent Owned Realty Co.

Internet Service Provider FTC

New Car Dealership Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC

Copy Shop Quality Shipping and Printing

Car Salesperson Thad Kennedy

Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC

Dealership Service Department Prothro Chevrolet Buick GMC Service

IT Company Southeastern Technology

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

6 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Thank You for voting Manning Feed Mill and Supply

The BEST FEED STORE in Clarendon County

Soap & Bath Fizzies

Bee Keeping Supplies

Horse Feeds & Supplies Used Saddles & Tack Too!

Chickens, Ducks & Rabbits

Livestock Feeds, Supplies & Custom Blended Feeds

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 2020 7

2020

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Lumber Company Daniels Hardware & Building Supply Manufacturing Plant Bicycle Corporation of America Martial Arts Jung Shin Taekwon-Do Massage/Massage Therapist The Comfort Place Massage Werks Nail Salon Ellen’s Nail Salon Pest Control Clarendon Exterminating Pet Boarding Lake Marion Animal Hospital Self Storage Facility James Rental Septic Tanks Robert James Septic Tank Pump Sign Company Mid Eastern Truck Wash/Chrome Stop/ Graphix Storage/Utility Buildings Outdoor Upgrades

Tanning Salon La Mer Tanning LLC

Firefighter/EMT Blake Johnson

Temp Agency Santee-Lynches One-Stop

Law Enforcement Officer Tim Baxley

Tree Service Ricky’s Tree Service Trucking Company B & B Farms & Trucking

Community Campground Elliott's Campground & Landing Charity Event Dancing with the Clarendon County Stars Church United Methodist Manning Civic Club Junior Ambassadors of Clarendon County Community Event Duck Fest Event Entertainment Graham Entertainment Tad Graham

Networking Group Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit Organization Second Chance Animal Rescue Place for Kids to Have Fun Gibbons Street Park Place to Volunteer McLeod Health Clarendon Sports Leagues Bad Medicine Softball

Eat & Drink American D & H BBQ Asian Yummy Japanese Grill Bar Red’s Place Barbecue D & H BBQ

Event Venue Clarendon Club

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

8 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Serving you today and tomorrow at your local Piggly Wiggly We at the Piggly Wiggly would like to thank the citizens of Clarendon County for voting us the No. 1 grocery store in the county. It is a true honor to serve and to be a part of this great community. We look forward to serving you for many more years to come.

36 Sunset Drive, Manning, SC 29102 (803) 433-2118

to our customers for

voting

Meares Marine Best Boat Dealership!

2058 Lakeshore Drive, Manning 803-478-2527 mearesmarine.com

Thank you for voting Piggly Wiggly

Best Grocery Store! piggly wiggly

Your neighborhood one-stop shopping experience.

36 Sunset Dr. Manning, SC 29102

Main: (803) 433-2118 Deli: (803) 433-8544 Pharmacy: (803) 433-2412

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 9

2020

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Education

Breakfast Corner Diner & Grill

Hot Dog Sonic Drive-In

Brunch Calla Lily Cafe

Ice Cream Store Dairy Queen

Driving School Hands on Driving School Manning

Buffet D & H BBQ

Liquor Store Manning Wine & Spirits LLC

Preschool Manning Early Childhood Center

Mexican Mariachi’s Mexican Restaurant

Private School Laurence Manning Academy

Pizza Georgio's Restaurant and Pizza

Public School Walker-Gamble Elementary School

Romantic Restaurant Porter Jacks Grill

School Administrator Tripp Boykin

Burger Burger Chick Cake & Desserts Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse Catering Catering for all Occasions Coffee Shop Corner Diner & Grill Deli Sub Station II Family Restaurant Porter Jacks Grill Fast Food Zaxby’s Chicken Fried Chicken D & H BBQ Grocery Store Piggly Wiggly Health Food Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse

Salads Calla Lily Cafe Sandwiches Calla Lily Cafe Seafood The Lake House Sports Bar Red’s Place Steak Porter Jacks Grill Sweet Tea D & H BBQ Wings Burger Chick

Laurence Manning Academy

School Teacher Rhonda Joyner

Manning Early Childhood Center

Tutoring Center Higher Learning Tutoring Center

Home & Finance Accounting Gibbons & Company, CPA, PA Air & Heating Service Jimmy’s Heating & Air

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

10 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Always improving for you at FTC

Thank you, readers, for voting FTC Best Internet Service Provider and Best Cable/Satellite Company!

We are humbled by your confidence! We are committed to helping you take advantage of technology in the way you communicate, share information and seek entertainment.

That is why we launched a $70 million fiber construction project that will deliver the highest -quality connection in the world to about 80% of our service area when it’s finished in 2024. As we approach the end of the initial phase, we will evaluate the best way to provide a similar connection to the remaining 20%.

Since winning the vote last year for Best Internet Service Provider, we have improved our plans, providing more bandwidth at similar pricing. We also provide symmetrical service to those on fiber, meaning their download and upload speeds are identical. For Digital TV, it’s about the quality of the images and the added features. Those are our top priorities.

For our wireless offering, we make coverage a priority, even around Lake Marion where being able to reach out can be even more important.

Like all of you, we want quality at an affordable price. So, combine any of our five core products – we also offer Voice and Security and you will save up to $40 a month. Military discounts are also available.

Again, thank you for these honors!

D&H BBQ

2020 Thank you for voting

FTC

THE BEST OF CLARENDON! BEST INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER

BUFFET - DRIVE THRU - CATERING

BEST CABLE/ SATELLITE COMPANY

Thank you

ONE STOP. FIVE STARS.

for voting us BEST in 5 Categories.

BEST Barbecue BEST Buffet BEST Fried Chicken BEST Sweet Tea BEST American Food

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

803-433-2189

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

PATRICK BRAILSFORD

ftc.net | 888-218-5050 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 11

2020

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Apartment Complex North Shore Villas Bank/Credit Union Bank of Clarendon Cable/Satellite Company FTC Cleaning Company (Residential) Kim Jones

Mortgage Lender Diane McCord

Tax Preparation Gibbons & Company, CPA, PA

New Home Construction Builder Morris Construction

Medical

Bank of Clarendon

Nursing Home Lake Marion Nursing Home

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

Contractor/Remodeler Buddin Construction

Painters Osborne Painting & Decorating

Chiropractor Manning Neck & Back

Decks & Porches OutDoor UpGrades

Pool Company The Swimmin Hole Inc.

Electric/Gas Provider Santee Electric Cooperative Inc.

Property Management Company Dee’s Lake Rentals

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

Fence Company Ridgeway Fence Company

Real Estate Agent Peggy J. Haley

Financial Advisement Edward Jones Financial Advisor Whit Jordan AAMS/CRPC

Interior Decorating Company Decorating Den Interiors Landscaping Brewer Lawn Care Daniel Brewer

Real Estate Closing Attorney Johnson, DuRant & Nester LLC Real Estate Company AgentOwned Realty Co. Roofing Company R W Nunnery Roofing Summerton Senior Care Agapé Hospice

Dialysis Company Fresenius Kidney Care Manning Family Practice Eagerton Family Practice Hearing Aid Center Sumter Hearing Associates Hospice Care Agapé Hospice In-Home Care McLeod Home Health Clarendon Medical Center McLeod Health Clarendon

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

12 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Working to serve you at Lake Marion Insurance

Thank you for voting us

Best Urgent Care

Our team at Lake Marion Insurance is honored to serve the residents of Clarendon and Sumter counties along with many others throughout our great state. With a combined 20 years of experience, our primary goal has always been and shall always remain to provide the highest standard of service with the most competitive rates. From personal insurance to large businesses, we remain steadfast in meeting our clients' needs. To be voted Best of Clarendon is not only humbling, but it also motivates us to continue keeping our clients' best interests at the forefront. We are beyond appreciative to serve the insurance needs of our friends and look forward to earning your business!

We Will See You Today!

1013 Professional Court C Manning, SC

www.colonialhealthcare.com

Thank You

(803) 433-7425

803-696-4336 for voting us 2020’s BEST Insurance Agency

11 W Boyce Street Manning, SC 29102 A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 13

2020

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Obstetrics & Gynecology McLeod Women’s Care Clarendon

Criminal Defense Attorney Steven McKenzie

Optometrist My Eye Dr.

Family Law Attorney Chris DuRant

Orthodontist Coulter Orthodontics

Insurance Agent Lillian Holladay

Orthopedic Surgeon McLeod Orthopaedics Clarendon

Loan Officer Mary Ann Morris

Pediatrics Dr. Lisa E. Heichberger, MD

Personal Injury Attorney Coffey & McKenzie, PA

Physical Therapist Southern Lakes Therapy

Personal Trainer Heatherly Brammer

Fishing Store Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods

Podiatrist Dr. Corey

Pee Dee Foot Center

Photographer Leah Daugherty Photography LLC

Fitness Store Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods

Urgent Care Santee Cooper Urgent Care

Plumber Wayne’s Plumbing and Electric

Flea Market Bonanza Flea Market

Vein Specialist Dr. Gabor Winkler

Veterinarian Lake Marion Animal Hospital

Professionals

Bank of Clarendon

Boutique Belladonna Boutique Children’s Clothing Store The Children’s Shoppe Consignment Store Brook Street Exchange Cosmetics Store Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio Feed Store Manning Feed Mill

Furniture Store Farmers Home Furniture Gas Station Tanners

Civil Attorney Johnson, DuRant & Nester LLC

Shopping & Commerce

Gift Shop Anderson Pharmacy

Counselor Kimberly Hill

Antique Store The MonkeyGrinder

Guns & Firearms Dealer Fully Loaded

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

14 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Let Peggy Haley help you find the real estate of your dreams Peggy Haley started in the real estate business in 2004. She is 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 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.

The areas she serves include, but are not limited to, Manning, Summerton, Eutawville, Vance, Elloree, Santee, Rimini, Panola, Paxville, Alcolu, Wyboo, Goat Island, Taw Caw and Lake Marion.

you for voting us

Best Nursery 3000 Plowden Mill Road • 495-2391

The Dancer’s Workshop

Open: Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm

The Dancer’s Workshop THANK YOU FOR VOTING US Best Dance Studio!

Celebrating 40 years.

(803) 473 - 8659

Donna Prothro Director/Owner

212 S Mill St. Manning, South Carolina

Thank You

2020

for voting me

Best Real Estate Agent.

You are the

Heart

of my business

I appreciate your loyalty through the years.

2020

Peggy Haley

(803) 460-4997 A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 15

Monica Phan OWNER

TANNERS IS YOUR ONE STOP SHOP 2 LOCATONS TO SERVE YOU

3088 ALEX HARVIN HWY. (HWY 301 & RACCOON RD.), MANNING, SC • (803) 473-2050 2605 WAREHOUSE BLVD. (HWY 15 SOUTH), SUMTER, SC • (803) 506-2804

16 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

WE INVITE YOU TO SEE WHY TANNERS IS VOTED #1 FRIENDLY SERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON...

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

I, Monica Phan, owner, would like to thank all my wonderful customers for voting us at

TANNERS #1 GAS STATION IN CLARENDON

Also voted 6 years in a row for Best of Sumter

DAILY KITCHEN SELECTION • • • • • • •

100% Gas 87 Octane 100% Gas 90 Octane CAM2 Race Gas Regular Gas On Road & Off Road Diesel Propane Fill Station Big Parking Spaces for Boats, RV’s & 18 Wheelers

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

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 2020 17

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. 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.

Walker Gamble Elementary wants to say

THANK YOU 2020 “All things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.”

for voting us

Best Public School

in Best of Clarendon 2020

Romans 8:28

Thank you for voting us

2020

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

114 S. Mill Street • Manning

433-4444

Tires • Brakes • Alignment 18 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

67 YEARS OF EDUCATION A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Clarendon Club: 2020's Best Event Venue in the county

Clarendon Club offers an array of outdoor recreational opportunities. Conveniently located near I-95 and tucked away in the woods along the shores of Lake Marion, Clarendon Club is the perfect location for weddings and events in a beautiful, natural environment. With the availability of private cabins and lakefront homes, Clarendon Club may accommodate overnight guests of destination weddings, events, family and/or corporate gatherings. Discover Clarendon Club’s year 'round outdoor experiences.

Hunt for Clarendon Club on Facebook or Instagram.

Clarendon Club is honored to be voted as the Best Event Venue in The Sumter Item’s 2020 Best of Clarendon contest. As a family owned and operated business, we greatly appreciate the votes and the support from the community. Thank you to the crew that works tirelessly to ensure our success - Mr. Matt Taylor (General/Habitat Manager), Mrs. Cindy Risher (Property Manager In Charge), Mr. Jerimy Baker and other local business owners. Thank you to all of those who have chosen to host their weddings, events and retreats with us.

epted

THANK YOU

for voting us

Best Event Venue

Established 1930

Beautiful location for Weddings, Retreats & your Special Events

Sincerely, Trey & Whitney Phillips

Thank You! FOR VOTING US BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Southern Lakes Therapy

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

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

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

Prothro Chevrolet

Your Family Owned Hometown Dealer since 1926!

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

BEST Car Sales: Thad Kennedy 452 N. Brooks Street • Manning, SC www.prothrochevy.com 803-433-2535 1-800-968-9934 A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

1219 Dingle Pond Rd., Summerton, SC 29148

(803) 460-9379

2020 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 19

2020

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

Hardware Store Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods

Party Rental & Supply Store Dollar Tree

Tobacco Store Carolina Discount Tobacco

Jewelry Store Big T Jewelers

Pawn Shop Reliable Pawn Shop

Mattress Store Freedom Furniture & Mattress

Pet Store Tractor Supply

Vape Store Carolina Discount Tobacco

Pharmacy Brunson’s Pharmacy

Men’s Clothing Store Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods Music Store Bradham’s Music Studio Nursery Brunson Nursery

Women’s Clothing Store Berkeley Boutique

Shoe Store Berkeley Boutique Sporting Goods Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods Tire Store Walker Tire Co. Inc.

Paint Store Simpson Hardware & Sporting Goods

Best of the Best Boss Victor Grubb

Wyboo Golf Course

Local Industry Pocotaligo Products

Locally Owned New Business Business (opened in 2019) Anderson Pharmacy Berkeley Boutique II Place to Work McLeod Health Clarendon

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

20 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

Your vehicle will run great with CARQUEST Auto Parts

Best of Clarendon

e

p Cu

ca M ke & s, C s e i akes, Cook

or

We 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 and 2020 Best of Clarendon contests. 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.

We are honored to be voted

Best

H E A LT H

FOOD

” r “Lucy Jennife n a Casselm

Best

SE & DES CAKES

RT

OUR NEW LOCATION

5 W. Boyce St. Manning, SC 29102

803.433.BAKE (2253) 803.410.7512

Thank you Clarendon for voting us 2020

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 A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 21

Caring for Clarendon County for over a century

Brunson’s Pharmacy has been meeting health care needs and exceeding expectations for a very long time. It is thought that Brunson’s Pharmacy 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 remained the top priority. Brunson’s Pharmacy still has the look and feel of the apothecary pharmacies of 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.

Jamie Mathis, PharmD, RPh, bought Brunson’s Pharmacy in 2013. He is a lifelong resident of Clarendon County and has committed himself to the growth of our city. 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 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. We are all committed to making your pharmacy visit as quick and hassle-free as possible. Come join Brunson’s Pharmacy, where you are more than a prescription number – you are family!

How to choose a local bank

They’re locally focused and committed to their communities, but it may surprise you that community banks make up a whopping 99% of all banks nationally and employ nearly 750,000 Americans. As a matter of fact, community banks make more than 60% of our nation’s small business loans and 80% of agricultural loans. Why should all of this matter to you? Consider these points when choosing a local bank: • Community banks specialize in “relationship banking.” Local bankers build relationships, and those relationships matter, especially when it comes to who you trust with your money.

• Timely decision making. Community banks are locally owned and operated, which makes gaining support and resolving issues much quicker and easier.

• Community involvement. Community banks put their money where their mouth is … literally. And not only money, but their employees also give their time and talents to local efforts that support total community growth.

Bank of Clarendon is proud to have been voted the Best Bank in Clarendon County. Come see why your friends trust us and voted our team the best. As we say, “We’re all the bank you’ll ever need!”

To learn more about community banking, visit icba.org

Come see why Brunson’s Pharmacy was Prescription Refills Ready in 15 Minutes or Less!

• Over-the-counter & prescription medications

Voted BEST PHARMACY

• Immune-boosting vitamins & supplements

12 North Brooks Street Manning, SC 29102 803-435-2511 Additional parking available behind the pharmacy 22 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

Christine Brogdon, PharmD RPh Hallie DuBose, PharmD RPh Jamie Mathis, PharmD RPh Tommy Benton, RPh, not pictured

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 - 6:00 Sat. 8:00 - Noon, Sun. Closed Most Insurances Accepted, including Tri Care and all Medicare Part D Plans.

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THANK YOU for voting us BEST AUCTION

ODOM AUCTION CO.

Thank you for voting us

BEST PIZZA

ALSO HOME OF LAKE ROAD ANTIQUES 531 S. MILL ST., MANNING, SC 29102

SCAL #4219

Restaurant & Lounge Pizza • Pasta • Subs • American Cuisine

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

Dee's Rentals Lake Marion Area Long Term Rentals

Thank you for voting us Best Property Management Company

Thank you for voting us Clarendon’s Best!

Clarendon county has a demand for rental properties.

Give me a call!

Mobile: 803-225-7007

Over 25 Years Property Manager Experience

DEE OSTEEN deesrentals@yahoo.com

You voted us Clarendon's Best for a reason.

Best Bank/ Credit Union

Clarendon

EXTERMINATING COMPANY

803-435-8689

535 S. Mill St. Manning, SC

Best Mortgage Lender, Diane McCord Best Loan Officer, Mary Ann Morris

Manning · Sumter · Santee · Summerton · Wyboo

BankofClarendon.bank A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 23

Tee off for lakeside golfing at its best

We would like to thank everyone who voted The Players Course at Wyboo the Best Golf Course in Clarendon for a third consecutive year. We are very thankful and appreciative of this honor. The Players Course was built in 1992 and is nestled along the shores of Lake Marion.

This 18-hole championship golf course is perhaps Santee Cooper Country’s most player-friendly layout.

The staff at the Players Course has over 40 years of experience in the golf industry, and our goal is 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 a practice range with a short game area. The Players Course also has a PGA Certified Professional on staff ready to assist you with all your needs.

The Players Course offers many different levels of membership, and we are sure you will find one to reach your goals. Come see for yourself what makes us the best golf facility in Clarendon for a third year in a row.

Visit us at www.theplayerscourseatwyboo.com

Anderson Pharmacy, your hometown pharmacy Hometown Values. Hometown Service. That is our motto.

Anderson Pharmacy has been in business for over 40 years, and we are proud of our hometown. Our team strives to make each customer feel “at home” when visiting our store. We make every effort to get to know our customers personally. It’s not just about the medicine or the gift; it’s about a relationship. It has been a privilege to serve the citizens of Clarendon and Sumter counties. Thank you for voting us Best Locally Owned Business and Best Gift Shop.

We give God all the glory for blessing our business with such wonderful patrons. We hope to continue providing hometown values and service for many years to come.

The Players Course at Wyboo

1560 Players Course Drive Manning, SC, 29102

VOTED BEST CIVIC CLUB

“A group of community minded women working with the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce to improve our community for all residents.”

Thank You for voting us

Best of Clarendon!

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

Gibbons & Company

Certified Public Accountant, PA Manning, SC 803-435-4316 24 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

2020

Visit them online at www.facebook.com/JuniorAmbassadorsClarendonSC

THANK YOU for voting Best Pool Company Visit Our New Location!

• Above & In-ground Pools • Services & Supplies • Spas • Pool Cleaning

• Water Analysis • Outdoor Kitchen

213 East Boyce Street • Manning, SC 29102

The old Southern Flair location, near Sparrow Tractor

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

fb.com/theswimminholeinc

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We are proud to be a part of Clarendon County and we appreciate the community support.

419 S Mill St, Manning, SC

803-433-2212

best Locally Owned Business and best Gift Shop for voting us Best Golf Course in Clarendon

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 A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

THE PLAYERS COURSE

(803) 478-2500

theplayerscourseatwyboo.com BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 25

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!

T hank you for voting us #1!

We strive to provide excellent service to our clients

2020

We invite you to come see us today!

Always Buying Gold! www.reliablepawnshop.com

18 N. Brooks Street, Downtown Manning 33 West Liberty Street, Downtown Sumter 26 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

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OutDoor UpGrades would like to thank everyone for voting for us in this year's Best of Clarendon.

We are your source for storage buildings, gazebos, play houses, decks, steps and more.

Call us today and ask us about our customized solutions and our FREE setup and delivery options.

Half Page Outdoor Upgrades Advert

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803-460-0840

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(803) 452-5336

Located On Lake Marion At Rimini •

Thank you for voting us

BEST CAMPGROUND TWO YEARS IN A ROW • 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

Thank You Red Carpet Sponsors

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

You live in Sumter.

OutDoor UpGrades

Your news should, too.

Watch new episodes Monday - Friday at TheItem.com

studio@theitem.com I (803) 774-1200

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BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 27

Dining DURING COVID-19 S

ometimes, it's perfect timing when a project comes to fruition.

Wendy Davis, co-owner and co-operator of Manning’s Porter Jacks Grill, will attest to that.

She has had a plan to begin offering outdoor dining at her restaurant on Mill Street for two years. During the last year, she said, her open-air dining vision has been slowly in the works.

She doesn’t buy anything new, so piece by piece she has collected items – tables, chairs, Story by Bruce Mills umbrellas – at flea markets, Photos by Micah Green yard sales and auctions to repurpose for an eventual new outdoor dining area.

Near the beginning of this year, her husband and son took a grain bin and turned it into a gazebo for the new addition. Then, in March, the COVID-19 pandemic began to sweep across the U.S., and indoor dining at restaurants became prohibited. Restaurants like Porter Jacks were limited to curbside pickup and delivery for part of the spring. Then, governors across the U.S., including in South Carolina, began to allow socially distanced outdoor dining in early May. Now, even as indoor dining areas have reopened, openair dining has become a COVID-19 trend because of the evidence that the highly contagious respiratory virus is spread easier by having closer and prolonged contact with others.

The timing for Davis’ outdoor vision couldn’t have been

What some of your favorite restaurants are doing to adjust

28 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

better, she said.

“We already had the plan rolling,” Davis said, “we just didn’t realize that God’s timing was perfect in that we would absolutely need it.”

On May 4, the first day Gov. Henry McMaster reopened outdoor dining in the state, Porter Jacks premiered its new set space for its popular lunch-and-dinner menu.

Given social distancing guidelines, the open-air patio has about 12 tables spread 6 feet apart. It can seat about 40 customers, she said.

In the new gazebo, there are three tables, which can seat about 12 total.

It may not be quite the bustling café culture of Greenville or Charleston, but patrons can now enjoy their favorite Porter Jacks steak or shrimp and grits in the open air.

All restaurants are supposed to be operating at 50% occupancy or less with their indoor dining areas, according to state guidelines. That’s true for Davis, but the addition of the outdoor dining area has allowed Porter Jacks to about equal its previous dining capacity, she said.

“I think basically what we lost inside, we picked up outside,” Davis said.

As restaurants everywhere attempt to recover from heavy losses in the spring, Davis said she thinks that doubling up on sanitation efforts is critical. That includes using disposable napkins instead of linens, setting up extra hand sanitizer stations and sanitizing all menus after each use.

“We have taken every precaution that we could possibly A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

take at the restaurant,” she said, “but yet still give our customers that experience of nice dining.”

Currently, when the weather is nice, she finds more people want to eat on the new outdoor patio than indoors.

“I think some people feel safer eating outside now with the pandemic than inside,” she said. “It’s that fresh air, and I feel that way, too.”

FAYZ AT THE LAKE

In early June, Donny and Dana Staton reopened indoor dining at Fayz at the Lake in Manning on Lake Marion.

It’s about 50% of previous capacity with 14 tables inside and room for about 60 people, Donny Staton said.

Because of COVID-19 in the spring, Fayz was limited to curbside pickup, he said, and lakeside pickup, for that matter, too.

“It’s a good hike from the

front door to the lake, but the waitresses have been doing lakeside pickup, too,” Staton said. “They either run it to the parking lot or the lake. We’ve been taking food to people on their boats to keep them from congregating outside their boats.”

People can enjoy Fayz’ diverse menu of steaks, ribs, pasta, chicken and more now with paper menus and increased sanitation efforts to adhere to state guidelines.

Porter Jacks Grill

505 S. Mill St., Manning Phone: (803) 433-5000 Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday- Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Web: www.porterjacksgrill.com

Desserts are also available at the restaurant’s Something Sweet Ice Cream Shop, he added.

Fayz at the Lake

13028 SC-260, Manning Phone: (803) 478-3805 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

D&H BBQ

Everybody knows that if you talk restaurants in Clarendon County, you have to include barbecue. And when you discuss the favorite Southern cuisine, you have to include D&H, also on Mill Street.

D&H has been a Manning institution in the same spot since 1947, and co-owner and co-operator Henry Brailsford has been there for 33 years.

With its popular drive-through lane, D&H never closed during the pandemic, able to keep serving up its barbecue pork, chicken and sides. The restaurant also did takeout pickup services by phone order. Like other eateries, business was slow, but it has picked back up to some degree, Brailsford said.

In mid-May, D&H reopened its inside dining area when Gov. McMaster allowed that to begin on a limited scale across the state.

The restaurant can seat about 35 to 40 customers inside with tables positioned 6 feet apart, according to Brailsford. When at full capacity, the dining area can seat 90 to 100 people, he said.

Plenty of hand sanitizer has also been available to customers, he said.

In May, employees prepared everybody’s meals because the popular buffet line wasn’t used.

In June, Brailsford's goal is to reopen the buffet line for customers who will wear plastic gloves as they go through the line to pick out their favorites.

Customers would use new gloves and new plates each time they go through the line.

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D&H BBQ

412 S. Mill St., Manning Phone: (803) 433-2189 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Closed Monday BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 29

Planning for hurricane season Story by Kayla Green

S

outh Carolina has already been impacted by tropical weather, and the official start to the Atlantic hurricane season was only on June 1. Amid a pandemic caused by the highly contagious respiratory coronavirus COVID-19, we also need to be preparing for this year’s potential storms.

There can be a lot to think about in these preparations, but state agencies have created campaigns to help sort through the information and provide actionable tidbits you can use today. South Carolina’s annual Hurricane Preparedness Week was May 31-June 6, and the National Weather Service and S.C. Emergency Management Division provided information and advice to take now to help your response to when a hurricane impacts the area.

This information has been curated for what people inland most need to know. Impacts and preparedness for dangers like storm surge applies more to coastal regions, though it is still important to know.

Sunday – Determine Your Risk

The Saffir-Simpson Scale, which determines what category a storm is on a 1-5 scale, with 5 being the worst, uses wind only to estimate potential damage. It does not tell you how much rain may fall or how high the storm surge may be on the coast. It doesn’t tell you about tornadoes, how large the storm is or about its potential path.

When is hurricane season?

The most active months are August-October, though, seeing as we had the second named storm of the season drop rain on us in May, they can impact the region as early as May and as late as November.

Monday – Develop an Evacuation Plan

Find out if you live in a home that would be unsafe during a hurricane. If you are, figure out where you'd go and how you'd get there if told to evacuate.

30 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

You do not need to travel hundreds of miles. Identify a friend or relative who doesn't live in an evacuation zone or unsafe home and work it out with them to use their home as your evacuation destination. If possible, have multiple options and be sure to account for your pets.

Tuesday – Assemble Disaster Supplies/High Winds

You need to have supplies not just to get through the storm but for the aftermath. Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your house at least one week. Electricity and water could be out for at least that long.

Make sure you have extra cash, a 30-day supply of medicine, a battery-powered radio and flashlights. Many of us of have cellphones, but they all run on batteries.

Make sure you have a portable, crank or solar-powered USB charger. Fill up your car or a gas can before the storm.

If the power goes out, you won’t be able to get gas.

To learn more about what to include in your disaster supply kit, visit http://flash.org.

High winds Even tropical storm-force winds (39-73 mph) are capable of tossing around debris. Seek shelter from the wind in a sturdy building before the winds arrive. Tropical storm-force winds usually strike hours ahead of the hurricane’s eye. Hurricane-force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing materials and items left outside become flying missiles in high wind. Falling trees can cause damage.

What to do before the wind starts • Secure loose items from outside before the wind starts.

• Trim trees and repair loose siding and shutters.

What to do during high winds • During high winds, avoid exterior facing rooms.

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• Don’t take refuge in your car or in a camper. Campsites are often full of trees.

Wednesday – Get an Insurance Checkup/Inland Flooding

Call your insurance company or agency and ask for an insurance checkup to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home.

Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat.

• Remember: Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding.

You need a separate policy for it, and it’s available through your company, agent or the National Flood Insurance Program at www.floodsmart.gov.

• Flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.

• Know where your insurance documents and contact information are located, and make sure to pack them in your evacuation items if you have to leave.

Inland flooding Flooding is the most deadly threat hurricanes bring to inland areas of South Carolina. Most hurricane deaths over the past 30 years have been from flooding, many of which occurred in vehicles as people attempted to drive through flooded areas where water covered the road.

The amount of rain a storm produces is not related to the intensity of the wind. Weak hurricanes and even tropical storms have caused disastrous floods throughout history.

Hurricane Joaquin in 2015 moved far to the east of the U.S., but a nontropical low over the Southeast tapped into the hurricane’s moisture, causing the historic 1,000-year flood that greatly impacted the area.

What can you do?

Determine if you live in an area at risk of flooding. If your yard or nearby roads around your home flood during ordinary thunderstorms, then you are at risk of flooding from torrential tropical rainfall. Those living near creeks, streams and drainage ditches should also closely watch water levels.

During extreme events, even those areas that normally do not flood are at risk.

Stay aware of road conditions, and make sure your escape route is A PUBLICATION OF THE SUMTER ITEM

not flooded. Never attempt to cross flowing water; instead, “turn around, don't drown.” A mere 6 inches of fastmoving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only 2 feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles.

This includes pickups and SUVs. Never allow children to play near streams, creeks or drainage ditches.

THURSDAY – STRENGTHEN YOUR HOME/TORNADOES If you plan to ride out the storm in your home, make sure it is in good repair and up to local hurricane building code specifications. Many of these retrofits do not cost much or take as long to do as you may think. Have the proper plywood, steel or aluminum panels to board up windows and doors. The garage door is the most vulnerable part of the home, so it must be able to withstand the winds.

Here are some tips • Keep trees around your home trimmed well before a storm to prevent damage from broken branches.

• Shop now for tested and approved window coverings to put up when a hurricane approaches.

• Bring loose outdoor items, such as patio furniture, inside.

• Secure all doors on your property.

• Move your car inside a garage or to a secure location.

Tornadoes Tropical tornadoes are often shortlived, but they can produce enhanced areas of damage. Sometimes, these tornadoes can occur in the outer rain bands well ahead of the center of the storm.

Have multiple ways to receive warnings so you can seek shelter quickly if a warning is issued for your area.

FRIDAY – HELP YOUR NEIGHBOR

Many people, especially senior citizens, rely on the assistance of neighbors before and after hurricanes. 46% of individuals expect to rely a great deal on people in their neighborhood for assistance within the first 72 hours after a disaster.

The basic steps for helping your neighbor are easy: • Help them collect supplies before

the storm.

• Assist them with evacuation orders if needed.

• After the storm is over, be sure to check on them.

SATURDAY – COMPLETE A WRITTEN PLAN

The time to prepare for a hurricane is before the season begins when you have the time and are not under pressure. Take the time now to write down your hurricane plan. Know where you will ride out the storm and get your supplies. You don’t want to be standing in long lines when a hurricane warning is issued. Those supplies may be sold out by the time you try to find them. Being prepared before a hurricane arrives makes you more resilient to the impacts of wind and water.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE DURING COVID-19

Make sure you think about distancing and health precautions this hurricane season.

If you evacuate to a shelter or a friend or family’s house, bring items that can help protect you and others from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials and two cloth face coverings per person. Children under 2 years old and people who have trouble breathing should not wear cloth face coverings.

Wash your hands regularly. If possible, maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet between you and people who aren’t members of your household.

Information gathered from the National Weather Service and FEMA.

BEST OF CLARENDON 2020 31

OutDoor UpGrades

We would like to thank you for voting OutDoor UpGrades Best Storage/Utility Buildings & Best Decks & Porches for Best of Clarendon 2020.

SUMTER & MANNING

803-460-0840

www.OutDoorUpGrades.com ALSO SEE OUR BUILDINGS AT ACE PARKER TIRES & J&J TOWING

32 BEST OF CLARENDON 2020

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