Lakeside April May 2017

about us EDITOR Rick Carpenter rick@theitem.com

COPY EDITORS Jessica Stephens jessica@theitem.com Melanie Smith melanie@theitem.com Ivy Moore ivy@theitem.com Rhonda Barrick rhonda@theitem.com COLUMNISTS Deana Anderson Dan Geddings CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Adrienne Sarvis adrienne@theitem.com Jim Hilley jim@theitem.com Bruce Mills bruce@theitem.com

As you’ll notice in this edition of Lakeside, we focus on two of the main festivals featured annually in the Lakeside readership area — first, the Puddin’ Swamp Festival in Turbeville on April 6-8 and then the Clarendon County Striped Bass Festival in Manning on April 21-22.

Those launch a series of fun festivals that peak with the Iris Festival during Memorial Day weekend at Swan LakeIris Gardens in Sumter.

These are the area’s signature events, with everything from art to music and dance and, of course, amusement rides and plenty of food vendors.

While we feature those events in this edition, we also bring to you information about Boykin Furniture Co. in Camden, where unique craftsman Joe Mazurek uses 18th-century techniques to build furniture.

We tell you about a unique art gallery in Camden as well that sisters Monica Laschanzky and Maci Scheuer put together on a whim. Now they have a contemporary art gallery in Camden.

There you’ll find unique treasures as you move from room to room in the Rutledge

Alex Burrows alex@theitem.com

on the cover

CLARENDON COUNTY MANAGER Gail Mathis gail@theitem-clarendonsun.com

A cute little girl plays a fishing game at a previous striped bass festival.

Rosie Peavy rosie@theitem.com Stacey Neal stacey@theitem.com Leigh Mitchell leigh@theitem.com

Street Gallery.

We tell you how to dust off your camping gear and be prepared for venturing out for a wilderness experience.

And while you’re at it, we teach you how to leave no trace behind.

But we also celebrate one of our own, as Zabo McCants was named the national Ranger of the Year for his work at Poinsett State Park. McCants was instrumental in pooling resources with the Midlands Southern Off Road Bicycling Association to construct more than 22 miles of mountain-biking trails. Through his efforts, the park has become a mecca for mountain bikers while making the park a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

So kick back, put your feet up, and enjoy this edition of Lakeside. As always, if you have interesting story ideas, shoot me an email at rick@theitem.com.

Rick Carpenter EDITOR OF LAKESIDE

4

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Mark Pekuri mark@theitem.com Paige Macloskie paige@theitem.com Karen Cave karen@theitem.com

2 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

also 12 inside 14

Puddin' Swamp Festival Events and schedule

Artfields

Celebrating its 5th year

Striped Bass Festival

PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Cary Howard cary@theitem.com

Welcome to the festive time of the year

Events and schedule

Ivy Moore ivy@theitem.com

from the lake

43 40

Black River Tools built from scratch

Managing nest boxes for our summer ducks

Sister Act

what’s inside

Pair share love of art with popular, contemporary gallery in Camden

Events and schedule

Self-taught craftsman makes 18th century-style furniture in Camden

Thomas 'Zabo' McCants

Ranger of the Year

20

Iris Festival

Going back in time

16

28 8

FEATURE STORIES

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 3

STRIPED BASS FESTIVAL

by RICK CARPENTER rick@theitem.com

The Striped Bass Festival represents the biggest event of the year in Clarendon County, and the 38th edition is lined up to live up to those expectations, the president of Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce said.

"We are anticipating a great turnout for the 38th Annual Striped Bass Festival,” said Pro Prothro, Chamber president. “We are looking forward to the inaugural Firefighter Combat Challenge hosted by the City of Manning and Clarendon County fire departments. This will be a new feature of the festival sure to entertain spectators as they watch hometown heroes at work."

Festival committee chairwoman Carrie Anna Strange agreed.

“We are excited to have Riptide perform as the Friday night live entertainment during the opening ceremonies,” Strange said. “We will have the usual amusement rides, children's art show and Sumter Cruisers Car Show as well as the newly added Firefighter Combat Challenge and patty plop.

“We are very thankful for our sponsors because without them we would not be able to have such a successful event year after year. We especially want to thank McDonald's for being our title sponsor for the fifth year in a row."

A fish fry and opening ceremonies on April 21 mark the start of the festival. And while the opening night also includes amusement rides, music performances and food vendors, the “reel” action starts early the next day in what the locals call “Super Saturday.”

While fishermen will likely be out early trying to snag the top striped bass for the competition, for the rest of the community, the day will start 4 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

with a parade at 10 a.m. in downtown Manning.

Meanwhile, the Sumter Cruisers Car Show members will be displaying their cars from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Making a comeback this year will be a “patty plop,” where as many as 100 people pay $25 per designated square to take a chance on winning $1,000 if an animal (yet to be determined, likely a cow or horse) drops its poop on your square.

After the parade, entertainment will continue throughout the day at the gazebo. Performers include The Dancer's Workshop, Carolina Dance Academy and The Dancing Machine.

The festival will also have a new event, the Firefighter Combat Challenge. The challenge will include a timed contest with firefighters fully equipped for a high-rise hotel fire. The simulation will have firefighters carrying a 50-pound hose on their shoulders up two flights of stairs, placing the hose in a hoisted basket, then going downstairs and deploying the water hose, finding and grabbing a 160-pound human dummy and carrying it out of the structure 20 feet, where the timing ends.

Teams from Clarendon County will likely compete against neighboring counties including Sumter, Florence and Williamsburg.

There will also be a tractor show sponsored by Sparrow and Kennedy in the courthouse parking lot on Saturday.

The climax of the event occurs at 3 p.m. Saturday when the Santee Cooper Open Team Tournament competitors begin weighing in their catches of the day for a guaranteed $5,000 payout. But if someone sets a state record for the largest striped bass, that person will win a truck.

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 5

STRIPED BASS

EVENTS SCHEDULE

APRIL 21 – L ion’s Club Fish Fry at Manning Restaurant triped Bass Festival Opening APRIL 21 – S Ceremonies beginning at 6:30 p.m.

• Free Concert by Riptide performance beginning at 7 p.m. at the gazebo.

Bring lawn chairs.

• Carnival rides • Food vendors APRIL 22 – SUPER SATURDAY • Santee Cooper Open Team Tournament (sponsored by Santee Automotive) launch at safelight at the John C. Land III Sport Fishing Facility and weigh in at 3 p.m. Guaranteed $5,000 payout and chance to win a truck if you exceed the state record for the largest striped bass caught.

• Hometown parade beginning at 10 a.m. The parade route will start at Old Georgetown Road and North Brooks 6 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

Street traveling to Boyce Street.

• Arts and crafts vendors around the courthouse • Sumter Cruisers Truck and Car Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Children’s Art Show at Billie S. Fleming Sr. Protective Service Center (Manning Fire Department) • Performances by local dance studios at the gazebo beginning at 11:30 a.m.

• NEW THIS YEAR: Firefighter Combat Challenge sponsored by the Clarendon County and City of Manning fire departments. For more information, please call Josh Jordan at (843) 6876120. Challenge begins at noon at the corner of Boyce and Brooks streets.

• MAKING A COMEBACK THIS YEAR: Patty Plop – Purchase a square for $25 for a chance to win $1,000. Event will take place in the area beside DSS on Church Street.

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Iris Festival

by IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

Sumter's Iris Festival is South Carolina's oldest continuous festival — this year marks its 77th anniversary. Consistently ranked among the top festivals in the Southeast, the festival attracted more than 60,000 people to Swan Lake-Iris Gardens in 2016.

The three-day festival held annually on Memorial Day weekend includes concerts, arts and crafts, plants and flowers, antique and classic car shows, a number of contests and many children's activities.

It all starts at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 25, and continues daily until 5 p.m. Sunday, May 28.

Thursday evening before the festival, with the annual "Crowning of The King and Queen" followed by the "Taste at the Gardens," will feature music by Sumter's "rock doctors," Chief Complaint, and great food from some of the area's leading restaurants and caterers.

The festival continues with a wide variety of activities all day on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Flowers and plants, as well as art,

will be available, and festival goers can even purchase genuine Japanese iris plants and bulbs culled from the garden. There's also a free health screening, hands-on children's art, a large area of children's amusement rides, car shows and a display of metal art made by local welding students.

Throughout the festival, dozens of vendors with handcrafted arts and crafts will fill the Heath Gardens. Everything from cypress lawn furniture to clothing items and stained glass will be displayed and offered for sale. The food court nearby will have festival foods and beverages. Find homemade sandwiches, desserts, salads and more at the Iris Market beside the Swan Lake Visitors Center.

And don't miss South Carolina's famous "Chicken Man," Ernest Lee. He'll be painting mostly his unique, colorful chickens on salvaged boards during festival hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Events Schedule Hours for the festival are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

THURSDAY, MAY 25 • 5:15 p.m. – Ribbon cutting, crowning of Iris Festival king and queen, Heath Pavilion • 6-9 p.m. – Taste at the Gardens with Chief Complaint band FRIDAY, MAY 26 • All weekend – Columbia artist Ernest "Chicken Man" Lee • All day – Gateway to Gardening & Art in the Garden, Bland Gardens • 9 to 11 a.m. – Palmetto Health Tuomey's free health screenings, Swan Lake Visitors Center • 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Just Kidding Around Children's Area – Palmetto Amusements • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Children's Art in the Park SATURDAY, MAY 27 • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Head Turnerz Classic Car Show, Bland Gardens

• 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Just Kidding Around & Games2U (laser tag, video games, more) • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Children's Art in the Park, Bland Gardens • The Magic of Welding, Visitors Center • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Mary Hinson Flower Show, Alice Boyle Garden Center • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – SAFE Kids Adventureland • Noon – Introduction of Iris kings and queens, Main stage • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. – East Coast Golf Cart Show, Visitors Center lawn SUNDAY, MAY 28 • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Sumter Cruisers Show and Shine (car show), Garden Street • Noon to 5 p.m. – Just Kidding Around • Noon to 5 p.m. – Children's Art in the Park, Bland Gardens • 1 to 4 p.m. – Mary Hinson Flower Show, "Celebrating the Festivals of S.C.," Garden Center APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 9

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(KEITH GEDAMKE/THE ITEM) The Puddin Swamp Festival Midway.

PUDDIN' SWAMP FESTIVAL

by IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

Turbeville celebrates the 10th anniversary of its Puddin' Swamp Festival on April 6 through 8. The town has fewer than 1,000 residents, but it boasts one of the Midlands' most entertaining festivals.

Bearing the original name of the town, the Puddin' Swamp Festival was started by a group of community leaders who met in the fall of 2007 to begin working on a festival for Turbeville.

The first festival, held in April of 2008, was an immediate success, becoming an annual tradition. Known as the Puddin' Swamp Festival, it was named for Puddin' Swamp just west of Turbeville.

Stephen Dukes, known as the Mayor of Puddin' Swamp, said the festival boasts special guests and several special features, beginning with the Taste of Puddin' Swamp on Thursday, April 6, in Pine Grove United Methodist Church Gym. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and the Cross Anchor Quartet, a gospel group, will perform at 7. Food for the 12 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

taste is provided by local individual cooks and restaurants, Dukes said. Puddin' Swamp fare, including "sweets and treats to chicken bog and Beaufort Stew," will be on the menu. Get your tickets for $20 at Turbeville Hardware and Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce.

Amusement rides will also begin Thursday night and continue each evening on the town square until 10 p.m. Food vendors will be on the square beginning Friday afternoon through the duration of the festival. Nashville singer-musician Lewis Brice, a Sumter County native, will take the Town Square stage at 8 p.m. Friday. He'll perform a variety of music from country and pop to Southern rock.

Entertainment by dance companies, karaoke and the Miss Swamp Bottom pageant, the Puddin' Swamp 5K race and lots of music will fill the three-day festival. East Clarendon Academics will benefit from the proceeds of the Puddin' Swamp 5K.

THURSDAY, APRIL 6

• 6:30 p.m. — Taste of Puddin' Swamp with Cross Anchor Quartet

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

• Afternoon — Food vendors on Town Square • 8 p.m. – Lewis Brice on Town Square stage

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

• 9 a.m. – Puddin' Swamp 5K presented by FTC • 10 a.m. – 5K winners announced • 11 a.m. – The Dancing Machine performs • Noon – Introduction of beauty queens and EC Special Olympics Team • Noon – Wildlife educator Stephen Hughes • 1 p.m. – Kelley's Fine Arts performs • 2 p.m. – East Clarendon Arts Program performs • 3 p.m. – Cornhole Tournament • 3 p.m. – High Ridge Bluegrass • 5 p.m. – 2nd-Annual Miss Swamp Bottom Competition • 5:30-9:30 p.m. – Carolina Cruisin' DJs • 9:30 p.m. – Fireworks extravaganza

Mallorie Springs, 12, and Hope Azurdia, 12, flip while riding the Tumbler at the Puddin' Swamp Festival in 2016 in Turbeville.

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ARTFIELDS

by IVY MOORE ivy@theitem.com

About to begin its fifth year of celebrating Southeastern artists, Lake City has become a spring destination for art lovers from all over.

From April 21 through April 29, the entire town will become a gallery, with more than 400 artworks displayed in locally owned venues. From restaurants to galleries, warehouses to shops, works by artists from all 12 Southeastern states, including dozens from South Carolina, will be on exhibit.

Once known mostly for its agriculture and tobacco markets, Lake City is now recognized as one of the top exhibition spaces in the Southeast. In addition to the art, there are many associated events to enhance the festival experience. On April 1, before ArtFields proper even begins, festival goers can visit the celebrated Moore Farm Botanical Garden during an afternoon wine stroll through its 60 acres.

Artwork goes on exhibit on Friday, April 21, with associated activities each day through closing on Saturday, April 29. Among them are ArtFields Jr., featuring work by young people; live music in several genres, among them a brass band, gospel, soul, classical, rock

and more; a food court and special events at local restaurants; classes in indigo dyeing and pressing flowers; making beaded wind chimes; growing tomatoes successfully; guided art walks; and more.

The artists — all of whom have been juried into Art Fields by a panel of distinguished judges and artists — have the opportunity to win substantial cash awards, and festival goers can also vote on their favorite art. Organizers suggest that visitors to the festival begin at the welcome center, where maps and a schedule of events can be picked up, and where they can purchase ArtFields merchandise and get information about all aspects of the festival.

On closing night, April 29, after awards have been presented, Lake City will celebrate with music by The Suffers, who describe their music as Gulf Coast Soul, influenced by classic rock 'n' roll, country, Latin hiphop and Southern rock. A fireworks display closes out the festival.

Admission to the art venues and to most events at ArtFields is free; however, some activities have a fee. Visit www.artfieldssc.org for more information and a complete schedule of events.

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PHOTO PROVIDED BY ANNA MAZUREK Craftsman Joe Mazurek carves a headboard for a bed in “the shop” at Boykin Furniture Co. in Camden. Mazurek, 70, began woodworking by repairing antiques as a young teenager in the early 1960s.

If you step into Boykin Furniture Co., 924 Broad St. in downtown Camden, it’s like taking a step back in time.

There you will find 18th century-style craftsman Joe Mazurek building handmade furniture from scratch for customers.

“We build it the old way,” Mazurek said. “It’s made how they made it 200 years ago — made to last.”

Born in East Germany, Mazurek and his family immigrated to Great Falls, South Carolina, in 1957 when he was still a youth. He started his craft by repairing antiques when he was 13 or 14 years old in the early 1960s.

Besides taking two woodworking classes in high school, Mazurek, 16 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

who’s 70 now, says he’s totally self-taught as a craftsman. He admits he does read up a lot on his trade. His wife of 43 years, Lucy, says woodworking is his passion.

“Joe lives and breathes woodworking,” Lucy Mazurek said. “It’s his hobby, sport and his relaxation.”

He works at his trade seven days a week in “the shop” in the back end of the store-front property on Broad Street. He’s been there since 1973. Lucy and his mother require him to take two days off a year — Christmas day and Easter. He also has a shop at his home in Rembert in Sumter County to work after hours.

He has one assistant — or “apprentice” — Michael Hartis, 36, of

GOING BACK IN TIME

SELF-TAUGHT CRAFTSMAN MAKES 18TH CENTURY-STYLE FURNITURE IN CAMDEN

by BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com

Camden, who has been with him for a decade.

Mazurek is quick to say it’s not “work,” however.

“It’s a lifestyle for me,” Mazurek said. “We don’t have to work; we get to go to the shop and have fun.”

Mazurek’s business focuses on build-to-order and restoration.

Every piece is hand cut versus utilizing any machines or computers.

The hand workmanship even goes down to cutting the dovetails for furniture.

Mazurek’s relationship with his customers is also traditional. He says he seldom takes money down.

“When it’s ready, you pay,” he said.

Mazurek says the customer has to love it when he or she sees the final product. His philosophy has worked for more than 40 years at Boykin, since he says he’s never had anybody turn down a piece.

Handmade furniture is a slow process, however. Some pieces take two to three months to build. Beds, his most popular commodity, take about six weeks from start to finish, Mazurek said. Therefore, pay is not steady each week.

“The job is secure as long as Lucy stays happy,” Mazurek said. “To succeed in this business, you need a wife with good earning power.”

Hartis said Mazurek told him two key things when he started as a craftsman.

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 17

Boykin Furniture Co., Inc.

924 Broad St. Camden, SC 29020 Hours: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; after hours by appointment Phone: (803) 432-4386 PHOTO PROVIDED BY ANNA MAZUREK Mazurek constructed this reception desk in 2007 for the Camden Archives and Museum in Camden.

PHOTO BY BRUCE MILLS Mazurek scrapes the veneer from a piece of furniture recently in “the shop.”

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“He said, ‘Learn to live in poverty and concentrate on the job; then, you will have no other worries,’” Hartis said.

Besides beds, Mazurek makes nightstands, dressers, desks and buffets, among other woodworking items. His favorite woods include mahogany, walnut, cherry and poplar. He signs, dates and numbers each piece of furniture when completed.

He tries to maintain a low profile but offer superior quality. Mazurek said his mission is to make each furniture item as well as possible and as efficiently as possible.

Given his traditional values, don’t expect any fancy marketing efforts at Boykin Furniture either. Mazurek treats his customers as best he can, relying on established clientele and word of mouth for business.

He emphasizes a “caretaker’s mentality” with his customers.

“When we deliver a piece, we remind the customer the day will come when we will be back there to visit the house again to examine the piece,” Mazurek said. “And, we expect it to be properly taken care of because you cannot sell my furniture if it doesn’t look good in your

house. You build this furniture for 300 years. You’re the caretaker now to pass it down to the next generation.”

Mazurek is an unassuming man. Hartis — his apprentice — estimates there are probably only about 25 craftsmen in the state like Mazurek with the desire to build in his fashion.

Mazurek thinks proper salesmanship can go a long way in the business, and he always asks customers if they are single or married.

“Married couples buy furniture; single people don’t buy furniture,” Mazurek said. “We sell them the bed first — we suggest king size. Then, the potentially mother-in-law may call, and we suggest nightstands.

‘You got to have two. We don’t want them fighting over the nightstand.’”

A friendly atmosphere is emphasized at Boykin and “the shop.” On an average day, numerous people stop by to talk.

“Everybody’s welcome at all times,” Mazurek said. “I’m sure we could increase productivity, but we are not anti-social. As someone once said, ‘We are easy to talk to.’ Now, we are going to try to sell you something before you leave. Now — trust me on that one.”

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Thomas 'Zabo' McCants POINSETT STATE PARK MANAGER HONORED AS NATIONAL

RANGER OF THE YEAR

by RICK CARPENTER rick@theitem.com 20 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

SORBA races at the park; this year it was on March 5.

ServiceWear Apparel recently awarded the manager of Poinsett In October 2015, a flood devastated the park with more than 16 State Park the national 2016 Park Ranger of the Year title. inches of rain in three days. With forecasters predicting the heavy Thomas "Zabo" McCants won the award from among more than 60 rains, McCants drained Old Levi Mill Pond by 2 feet and kept flood nominees and 5,500 online votes. gates open in preparation. That quick action helped save the pond and According to information announcing the award on its website, property around it. www.servicewearapparel.com, McCants won because he helped A year later, when Hurricane Matthew hit the area, many people transform Poinsett from a quiet Civilian Conservation Corps park into from the coastal areas of South a "booming destination park with Carolina had moved into a modern accommodations." It also campground area at the park. cited how through his leadership, By the time soaking rains and he led his team through a historic high winds started felling trees flood in 2015 and a hurricane in in the park, including in the 2016. And the park doubled its campgrounds, McCants had annual income from a few years moved campers to the middle of ago. a field, far enough from trees to Criteria for nominees protect them. included a ranger's dedication McCants said the credit for to preservation of a park the award goes to co-workers and and its natural environment, volunteers who helped build the leadership through obstacles park into what it is today. to create the best possible park "We don't get to where we are experience for visitors and staff without good people around us," and a commitment to safety and he said. "You're only as good as protection of park and visitors by the people you surround yourself smart thinking and intentional with." action.

He also credits his parents and Brad Lane, himself a park grandparents with introducing manager for Lee and Woods Bay him to the outdoors as a youth. state parks, nominated McCants He recalls fishing with his for the award. He wrote of a litany grandfather near Denmark, of accomplishments that matched South Carolina, at a farm pond in or surpassed that criteria.

Orangeburg County.

And he took it a step further.

By the time he graduated from "While Zabo has worked hard high school, his interest in the to improve Poinsett and to care for outdoors took him to Western its visitors," Lane wrote, "a focus of Carolina University, where he his has been the rangers that work majored in parks and recreation under him. He knows that his job management. He said the college as a manager is to prepare the environment led him into a next wave of rangers so that they period of self-discovery that not are ready to take over when their only encompassed the college time comes." curriculum, but also experiential Lane worked for McCants at learning through mountain Santee State Park and said he biking and rock climbing. counts him as a "great mentor."

During summers in his college Since arriving to take over years, he found odd jobs and management of Poinsett a decade landed his first state park job at ago, McCants has raised the park's Dreher Island State Park as a park self-sufficiency from 46 percent technician in 2000. to 82 percent. Becoming 100 There he learned the percent self-sufficient means the importance of maintaining a park park generates enough revenue while preserving its natural and to offset its expenses and doesn't historical resources. require a subsidy from the state.

After a few years away from When he arrived, the park had state park service, he landed a about 4 miles of trails. It now PHOTO PROVIDED position as a part-time Ranger boasts more than 22 miles of trails Poinsett State Park Manager Zabo McCants, right, visits with 1 at Hickory Knob State Park used for hiking and mountain Steve Tipton during the construction of a bridge for one of the on Lake Greenwood, which also biking, and volunteer crews from mountain bike trails at the park. includes an 18-hole golf course. the Midlands Southern Off Road Biking Association and Sumter He quickly rose to Ranger 3, and Chain Gang recently constructed he said he learned a great deal a 3-mile trail called Swamp Fox Trail. about customer service and dealing with conflict resolution.

McCants credits Midlands SORBA members Steve Tipton, Tim In 2005, the state park service promoted him to assistant manager of Fishburne and Toni Merritt with the idea of building mountainSantee State Park and two years later to park manager of Poinsett. Ten biking trails in the 1,000-acre park. He said they pulled in volunteers years later, he has transformed what was once a quiet, obscure park into to help create the trails while maintaining the park's environment. what people now call the “mountains of the Midlands.”

Now, mountain bikers consider the park a premier mountain-biking McCants, 42, called the national Ranger of the Year Award a lifetime destination. accomplishment.

In fact, Midlands SORBA annually hosts the first in a series of “It’s a humbling experience for someone to nominate me,” he said.

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 21

“It’s a recognition that is a pay forward to my parents and family PHOTO PROVIDED A group of riders prepare to for all they’ve done for me.” ride the mountain bike trails at ServiceWear Apparel sells Poinsett State Park on Bike Your uniforms worn by rangers, law Park Day. enforcement and people in other lines of work.

PHOTO PROVIDED The National Poinsett State Park Manager Intergovernmental Purchasing Zabo McCants connected with Alliance, a cooperative that pools the Southern Off Road Biking governmental and nonprofit Association volunteers to build resources to get low bids on some of the best trails in the supplies, recognizes ServiceWear state at Poinsett. This is a photo Apparel as its uniform and of volunteers on a work day. accessories contractor.

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APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 25

Photo by: Konstantin Vengerowsky, The Sumter Item

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APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 27

Sister Act

Pair share love for art with popular, contemporary gallery in Camden

by BRUCE MILLS bruce@theitem.com 28 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

PHOTOS BY BRUCE MILLS / LAKESIDE Previous page: Rutledge Street Gallery in downtown Camden features a wide variety of original paintings, sculpture and pottery. About 35 artists’ works are on display at the gallery, which has been open since 1999.

Above: Artist Bob Ransley uses vibrant hues to depict animals in his work as seen above. He has numerous paintings on display at the fine arts gallery.

What started off on a whim has turned into a long-term, successful business venture for sisters Monica Laschanzky and Maci Scheuer.

The pair both love art, and when they would visit larger cities, they would go to art galleries. Maci, a local artist in Camden, ran a small business out of her home drawing commissioned portraits in the late 1990s.

When the beauty parlor they frequented in downtown Camden went out of business and was up for sale, the owner encouraged them to buy it. But with no clue how to run a business, the sisters put off the idea.

Finally, a family member suggested to the sisters, “Why don’t you start an art gallery?”

The sisters, who both live in Camden now, decided to open the business in 1999. The rest is history for Rutledge Street Gallery.

“The different rooms here were for manicures, pedicures and massages,” Monica said. “We decided to keep the rooms so it would seem a little more personal.”

Various woodwork in the building, such as alcoves, was done by the beauty salon owner’s husband, so the sisters kept it, according to Monica.

“It sounds so weird talking about it now that we have been here this long; it’s so strange,” Monica said.

Maci had the eye for beautiful art that helped the gallery get going.

She trained and studied at Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia. The art school is distinguished for its contemporary realist art. It was there that she established personal relationships with high-quality, conscientious artists who agreed to send their work down for sale.

Monica manages the business operation and stays in regular communication with the artists. She said about 35 artists’ works are on display at the gallery.

“All our art is contemporary, original fine art on consignment — meaning we don’t own the work,” Monica said. “The artists trust us with their work, and they set their own prices. We represent a number of artists here and their work.”

The gallery is filled with paintings of diverse genre and media, sculpture, pottery, furniture and hand-made jewelry. The sisters pick a wide variety of styles and artists’ work to sell at the gallery. Palletdriven abstracts sell well, but so do portraits and landscapes, according to the sisters. Prices vary from $300 to $10,000 for paintings.

“Our forte is beautiful things, not one genre,” Maci said. “We want to be known that you can come in and see a wide variance in style, price and colors; so the gallery is available to everyone.”

The gallery’s customer base is about half from the Columbia area APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 29

More of Bob Ransley’s work, above, is featured in a room at Rutledge Street Gallery. Co-owner Monica Laschanzky, above right, said she and her sister, Maci Scheuer, try to display paintings, furniture and lamps as people would have them in their home.

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and half from Camden, Sumter, Florence and other central parts of the state.

The sisters say they have a nice, local base of customers in Camden.

Rutledge Street Gallery is the only original fine arts gallery in town.

“We have been accepted in the community since the beginning,” Monica said. “It’s a miracle it worked out. We just wanted to sell art. We are just the only one in a certain little area.”

The retail art gallery survived the Great Recession of the late 2000s, when many others in the business didn’t.

The sisters said their method of display and customer-friendly atmosphere have been key to the gallery’s success.

“Our display is unique,” Monica said. “We display things as you would have them in your house. There is a rhythm to each room. For example, the furniture, lamp and paintings all together. We don’t hang items single file, like you would see in a museum.”

The gallery’s relaxed atmosphere allows customers to connect to a piece that speaks to them, Monica said. She doesn’t try to teach or manipulate clientele. Unlike other galleries, the sisters list the price for all pieces to remove the potential awkwardness of asking for that information.

“We don’t underestimate people,” Maci said. “We assume people know what they’re doing and looking for.”

When the customers are ready, Monica and Maci will help them choose the right pieces, and they’ll even offer to display and hang them in the customer’s home. The gallery’s buyer guarantee policy allows customers to try art in their home before purchasing. The gallery also offers easy-payment options to make it comfortable for people to afford a piece.

Monica said a favorite part of the job for her is giving young people advice to help start off buying that first original art piece.

She said a common misconception is that you have to have a lot of money to have art. It’s really more about just having an interest in it, she said, because monthly payment options are available at the gallery.

“It’s important for people to get that one, very nice and special piece of art,” Monica said. “Take the time and pay for it; so it means something to you and have it somewhere where you enjoy it.”

Their customer focus has contributed to strong, repeat customers, who have recommended the gallery to others, Maci said.

Other marketing efforts include the use of Facebook and Instagram and various shows and parties held during the year.

In the last year, the gallery has also hosted a few portrait sessions with one of its most famous artists, Seth Haverkamp.

“That is just an unbelievable experience,” Maci said, “to get your portrait done in less than an hour by him.”

The sisters said what also makes Rutledge Street Gallery unique is that it represents them.

Besides training at Studio Incamminati, Maci has traveled to China, Vietnam and several other countries.

“Her statues come to life,” Monica said. “Her paintings have a little personality to them. She has a different eye.”

Monica said the gallery has about 10 to 15 pieces displayed of many of its artists to give customers a feel for their entire body of work. She and Maci are both proud of the contemporary artists they represent.

“The biggest joy to me is when somebody walks out with a painting or I hang it for them, and I can come home and call the artist,” Monica said. “I will tell them, ‘Your painting is in their den; it’s their wedding anniversary present, and they love it.’ I will call the painter, and we are both sharing the joy.”

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508 Rutledge St. Camden, SC 29020 Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Phone: (803) 425-0071 Online: www.rutledgestreetgallery.com

The Area’s Best and Only Full-Service Provider

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 31

TAKE

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS BEFORE LAUNCHING A BOAT FOR THE FIRST TIME

by ADRIANNE SARVIS adrianne@theitem.com Before taking advantage of the warm spring weather and getting on the water, make sure to look over the following boating safety tips provided by South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to ensure that you and your passengers have a great time.

Before getting on the water

Be sure to check the weather before leaving.

Check fuel levels and batteries of the boat, and make sure lights are in working condition if you plan to stay on the water after dark.

Navigational lights must be used from sunset to sunrise.

Each boat is required to have U.S. Coast Guard approved, wearable personal floatation devices in the correct size for each passenger.

Make sure a fire extinguisher is readily accessible.

If your boat does not have a cover, bring sun protection as well as fresh water.

While on the water

Never operate your boat or watercraft under the influence of alcohol. It is legal to consume alcohol on the water, but it is illegal to operate a motorized vessel or vessel under sail while under the

influence of alcohol. If there will be drinking, make sure to have a designated driver.

Take extra caution during holidays when more people will be on the water.

All boats approaching from the right have the right of way, but do not assume to know another boat operator’s next move, and always proceed with caution.

If someone falls overboard, throw the person a PFD or some other large object that can float.

Anyone operating a personal watercraft must wear a PFD. And personal watercraft cannot be operated between sunset and sunrise.

If your boat capsizes, stay with the boat.

If you get caught in a storm, DNR recommends putting on PFDs, heading into the wind and getting low in the boat.

On the water at night

Always proceed with caution even if you are familiar with the area. It may be harder to gauge the distance from obstacles that are normally seen during the day. Use lights, and travel at a reduced speed making sure to look for resting boats.

South Carolina DNR offers a free six-hour, one-time boating education course in different areas in the state. For more information, go to www.dnr.sc.gov.

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32 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

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BETWEEN SHONEY’S & HUDDLE HOUSE OPEN 24 HOURS APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 33

WHAT'S

HOT this spring

FOR THE OUTDOORS

by ADRIANNE SARVIS adrianne@theitem.com

Here are a few items to keep an eye on to add this spring as the weather continues to get warm and you and your family start taking more weekend trips.

Footwear

Ryan Clark, sales associate at Simpson Ace Hardware and Sports on Wesmark Boulevard in Sumter, said customers started buying Rainbow flip-flops in late February and early March because of the early warm weather.

Other popular footwear are Chaco and Keen sandals, he said.

He said Chacos usually go like wildfire.

Chacos have a high arch and are a very supportive sandal, and Keens provide similar support with more of a closed toe, Clark said. Both shoes are good for the outdoors, he said.

Clark said a pair of Merrell shoes or boots are a comfortable and durable outdoor shoe option.

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Seating and lounging

Enos hammocks are really popular right now, Clark said. They come in single or double-nest options and cost about $60, he said.

These hammocks are great for the yard, beach or lake and pack up very small for easy transportation, he said.

You just set the hammock up between two trees or posts, and you’re all set, Clark said.

Zero-gravity lounge chairs are also really nice, he said.

Whoever invented this chair did good for himself, he said. These chairs are like recliners for the outdoors, Clark said.

Keeping Cool

There are plenty of things to keep you cool and protected when the temperature goes up, such as moisture-wicking clothing, bathing suits and head gear, he said.

Clark said Frogg Toggs evaporative cooling towels are good for keeping you from overheating when you’re in the sun.

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34 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

You wet the towel and put it on your head or around your neck, and it cools you off as the water evaporates, he said.

Another type of headwear to protect you from the heat and sun are Buff head and face masks. The masks have moisture-wicking fabric that pulls sweat away from the skin and prevents overexposure from the sun.

And Simpson has plenty of waterproof tilley hats, Clark said.

Camping supplies

If you’re going camping, Simpson also offers cooking pot sets, sleeping bags and a wide selection of water bottles.

A lot of people are purchasing CamelBak hydration packs, Clark said.

Those do well all year round, he said.

Clark said Yeti has also released a new product called the Rambler, a sealable container that keeps drinks at an ideal temperature.

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Fishing tools

For the fishermen and fisherladies, Pal Boozer, head of the fishing department at Simpson, said Lews bait casting reels are a durable option that makes for a smooth fishing experience. And the price point is good, he said.

Another popular fishing item this season is Duckett fishing rods because they are light and sensitive, he said.

Boozer said fishermen are also purchasing Wacky Worms lures and tools.

The Wacky Worm tool attaches a band to the center of a soft-plastic lure. Fishermen can then slide the fishing hook underneath the band, and the lure will hang horizontally, he said.

For more information about fishing and outdoor supplies, visit Simpson Ace Hardware and Sports at 40 W. Wesmark Boulevard, Sumter, or call (803) 773-3397.

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APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 35

on the lake

SUBMITTED BY ROBERT THOMAS

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Picture yourself in Lakeside?

36 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

SUBMITTED BY TERESA LOGAN

Please submit photos to cary@theitem.com

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m or rick@theitem.com. Deadline for submissions for the next edition is May 11.

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 37

LEAVE NO TRACE SEVEN PRINCIPLES:

GUIDELINES FOR MINIMIZING YOUR IMPACT ON NATURE

by DEANNA ANDERSON seakla@yahoo.com

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(803) 566-7740

38 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

125 EAST DEKALB STREET CAMDEN, SC 29020

(803) 425-0500

804 U.S. 1 LUGOFF, SC 29078

(803) 438-7006

In a 2013 survey, 49.2 percent of Americans participated in some type of outdoor recreation, according to www.outdoorfoundation.org. With the number of trails, parks, waterways and wildlife management areas available for recreation, it adds up to a lot of human impact.

Annually, Americans produce more than 250 million tons of trash, and much of it ends up in our parks and waterways. But litter isn’t the only negative effect humans have on the environment. Wildfires, native plant poaching or introducing invasive species, noise pollution and harmful interactions with wildlife also play a role.

Fortunately, there are ways to minimize impact and still enjoy outdoor recreation. By following the Leave No Trace Seven Principles — created by the Leave No Trace program, a nonprofit organization — we can decrease our effects on nature.

The seven principles are a learning tool for a set of outdoor ethics first established in the 1960s by the USDA Forest Service. Used with permission from the Leave No Trace program, the seven principles are: Plan ahead and prepare. Poor planning can lead to damaging or long-lasting effects on our environment and its cultural or natural resources. Check ahead to see what amenities are available, and plan for what amenities are lacking, such as using a camp stove if there are no fire pits or bringing trash bags to pack your own trash out.

Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Durable surfaces are those designated for outdoor recreation such as established trails, roads or campsites and natural surfaces such as rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.

Dispose of waste properly. Throw all trash (including food waste) in appropriate bins, dig catholes for human waste, and always check the area before leaving to ensure that nothing is left behind.

Leave what you find. Leave cultural and historical artifacts alone, and leave all natural objects in nature. It’s tempting to pick a pretty flower to preserve later, but wildflower poaching has led to extinction of plant life and is considered a serious crime.

Minimize campfire impacts. Use only approved fire pits or camp stoves and grills if fire pits are not available. Lanterns and flashlights can provide additional lighting. If a fire is necessary, keep it small, and burn all the wood or coal to ash. Then, extinguish it completely, and scatter the cool ashes before leaving the area or going to bed.

Respect wildlife. Observe all wildlife from a distance, and do not follow or approach any animal. Feeding wild animals is also dangerous, and this includes providing food waste. Remember the principle “dispose of waste properly.” Often food waste is not considered littering because it's organic, but human or pet food can damage animals' health, alter behaviors or expose them to predators or other dangers.

Be considerate of other visitors. Keep noise to a minimum (let nature provide the soundtrack), follow all regulations and rules of the area, and remember the Leave No Trace Seven Principles to minimize impact, protect wildlife and preserve the area for others to enjoy.

For more information on the Leave No Trace program or the Leave No Trace Seven Principles, visit lnt.org/learn/7-principles.

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803-478-2262 www.santeelakes-campground.com 1268 Gordon Rd. • Summerton, SC 29148

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 39

MANAGING NEST BOXES FOR OUR

‘SUMMER DUCKS’ 40 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

Lifting the door carefully and peeping into the dark box, I was surprised to see a pair of round eyes staring back at me.

They blinked, then closed. A beautiful juvenile screech owl was crouched in the corner of nest box No. 4. The small owl was completely feathered and would be leaving the nest soon. I closed the side door of the box and eased back down the ladder into the shallow water.

My son Clayton and I were checking the wood duck, or “summer duck,” nest boxes on my outdoor columnist property in Clarendon County. I have 13 nest boxes on the ponds and in the flooded woods. Some of the boxes have been up for more than 20 years. Each year, in the late winter or early spring, before the nesting season gets started, I inspect, clean and maintain them.

Box No. 1 is on the edge of a small pond bordering the woods. It had two large wasp nests and some eggshell fragments from last summer. I removed the old wasp nests and added some new wood shavings.

I was wearing chest waders, carrying a 4-foot stepladder and a pair of lopping shears. I had a small backpack on with a hammer and nails and my camera inside. Clayton was also in waders and was carrying a bucket with wood shavings. Boxes two and three had eggshell fragments and some feathers. We cleaned them out and added new shavings. I cut back some brush from the area around box No. 3.

Box No. 5 had another owl, an adult screech owl with an egg. I just shut the box and let him be. Screech owls nest early, before the woodies. The ducks can take possession once the owls have moved on.

Songbirds will sometimes use the duck boxes, but usually much later in the summer. I’ve had hooded mergansers use the boxes occasionally.

Back at the truck we took a break. Carrying all that stuff and wading through knee-deep water full of logs and brush can be a little bit tiring.

Duck boxes are a long-term commitment, and there is some work, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

The next two boxes had eggshell fragments and membranes from this past summer’s production. You could count the membranes to get a good estimate of the ducklings hatched if you wanted to keep up with that. We added new shavings and waded on to the next box.

Clayton climbed up and eased the side door open.

“Feathers,” he said. “Lots of down feathers.”

I knew we had an early nester.

“Look under the down,” I answered.

“Eggs, lots of eggs,” he exclaimed!

“Get down and let me see,” I said. I was surprised to see a nest full of duck eggs this early, but here they were, 13 small cream-colored wood duck eggs. The down feathers were an indication that the hen was ready to start incubating.

by DAN GEDDINGS

Boxes nine and 10 had shell fragments and a couple of old eggs from last summer. We cleaned them out and added shavings. The next box had a surprise for us. The box is on a post out in standing water, 20 feet from the nearest land. There are button brush and small willows but no big trees in this area. I could see some small sticks poking out of the entrance hole.

I called Clayton’s attention to the box. I already had a good idea about this one. I moved the ladder up close and tapped the side of the box. Something shuffled around inside. I eased the door open slowly and saw sticks and leaves packing the inside almost to the top. Just then a squirrel leaped out, almost in my face, then another one. They jumped from bushes to limbs and were gone in a flash.

We stood there dumbfounded. How in the world did those squirrels get out there to the box in such small bushes and trees? They had made quite a nest inside the box. I poked around and looked, expecting to see babies, but none were there. We decided to let the squirrels have the box for a while.

Box 12 also held a surprise. It’s a brown plastic box that is cigar or bomb shaped. I have four of them that I got years ago. They are mounted on galvanized pipes that were driven into the mud. This one was full of fire ants. Twenty feet from the shore in standing water! How in the world did they get there? One small willow limb touched the side of the box. I guess the ants came like the squirrels, through the button brush and willows.

We dumped the ants out, replaced the shavings and trimmed the brush back with the lopping shears. The ants could find another home.

The last box had shell pieces and membranes. We were done for the day.

What a day! Wasp nests, owls, wood duck eggs, squirrels and fire ants. I’ve got room for more boxes and good brood-rearing habitat for the ducks. I’ll be applying for more wood duck nest boxes at South Carolina Department of Natural Resources this fall. You can download an application from its website if you have habitat and can make a long-term commitment to manage for our summer duck.

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APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 41

Black River Tools

6509 Highway 260, Manning, SC 29102 www.blackrivertools.com (803) 473-4927 42 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

JIM HILLEY / LAKESIDE David Baynard holds one of the Father Nature bird feeders made by Black River Tools. The feeders are made of metal and come with a lifetime guarantee.

BLACK RIVER TOOLS

BUILT FROM

SCRATCH

by JIM HILLEY jim@theitem.com

Bill Silver said he has been using Driftmaster Fishing Rod Holders for 20 years.

Until visiting the company shop in Jordan recently, he did not actually own one, however.

“I used my friend’s,” he chuckled.

Silver, a Florence resident who is retired from working with railroad companies, recently bought a used boat.

“My friends were laughing at me because I didn’t have any rod holders,” he said.

David Baynard, who owns Black River Tools in Jordan, was glad to help Silver select some Driftmaster hardware for his watercraft.

Black River Tools manufactures the fishing rod holders, which are sold nationwide.

Baynard said he doesn’t like to undercut his dealers, but he doesn’t mind helping out the few people who find their way to his shop.

When it comes to starting a business from scratch, Black River Tools may have taken it to another level.

David’s father, Calvin Baynard, knew he did not want to work forever at a desk job, and together with his son, they built a shop from materials taken from a chicken barn that had blown down.

“The guy who owned it said we could have the materials,” David said.

“We weren’t builders, but we had one who advised us how to do it.”

They called their company “Black River Tools” because their first products were garden hoes.

“We had another company make the hoes; we would add the wooden handles,” David said.

“Weed Ox” was the trade name for the hoes, he said.

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Selling the garden tools didn’t produce enough income for Calvin to quit his desk job, however.

In the early 1980s, Calvin learned how to make fishing rod holders from a “catfish guy” out on the Santee Cooper lakes.

“He didn’t want to make them, and my dad was looking for a job where he could use his hands,” David said.

Black River Tools was soon making and marketing Driftmaster Fishing Rod Holders and was incorporated in 1983, David said.

“It is definitely a home-grown business,” David said, laughing.

Today, the Driftmaster Fishing Rod Holder is distributed nationwide.

“It’s a very strong brand name,” David said.

With the fishing business being seasonal, they began looking for another product they could develop and sell during the fall.

“About 10 years ago, we developed a line of metal bird feeders called ‘Father Nature Feeders,’” David said.

He said the bird feeders make great Mother’s Day and Christmas gifts.

He said it is like all Black River Tools products; it was developed to solve problems people have when they are doing something they enjoy.

“There are four problems with bird feeders,” he said. “Mildew in the seed, squirrels, seed waste and longevity.”

The Father Nature Feeders are very effective at solving those problems, he said.

“We didn’t think that other feeders on the market would last; our feeder has a lifetime warranty,” he said.

David said he earned a degree in mechanical engineering and worked for General Electric for 12 years before buying Black River Tools

Ray’s Tractors

3478 Alex Harvin Hwy. Manning, SC 803-249-1077 www.raystractors.com APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 43

He said the locks are simple and easy to use. from his father.

“If a locking device is not easy to use, people will talk themselves His wife, Tina, does the bookkeeping, and his two sons, Jesse and out of using it, and their stuff will be Aaron, work at the shop. stolen,” he said.

“We have a full-blown marketing He said he is proud of his golf cart department, sales, manufacturing lock because it is protecting something — the whole umbrella of a small that people depend on. business,” he said.

“They are coming to me for help, to Black River Tools employs 12 secure something important to them,” people, he said. he said. “For some older people in “We keep them employed yearretirement communities, golf carts are round, but we scale back their hours in their only transportation.” the slow season,” he said.

He said that one good thing about David said he received his latest his business is that he is dealing with patent on a golf cart lock. customers who are happy.

“Golf cart theft is a major problem,” “If you help a man catch more fish, he said. “I did some research, went to you have a customer for life,” he said.

Myrtle Beach and talked to police and He said he is grooming his sons to people who used the carts.” take the business even further.

He said he has been selling his Golf “Hopefully, my sons can learn the Cart Lok for a couple of years on a marketing skill and take the birdfeeders limited basis around Myrtle Beach. and golf cart locks to another level,” he “I always field test a product well said. before I try to sell it,” he said. “I like to Marketing the products takes a lot be able to look my customers in the of time and energy, he said, and he eye, and I like to make things I could has to do a lot of traveling to fishing sell to my mother.” tournaments and outdoor marketing David said his lock slips over the shows. pedals and prevents the accelerator He also has professional anglers who pedal from being mashed and keeps tout his rod holders. the brake pedal pushed down.

David said he is around fishing a lot “Even if the key is in, it can’t be turned on,” he said.

JIM HILLEY / LAKESIDE but does not get to do much himself.

“If the fish are biting, I have to grab He said they are available at Dave Baynard, owner of Black River Tools, listens as Bill Silver describes what kind of fishing rod holders the chance to promote my product,” he golfcartloks.com or from Graham Golf he needs for the used boat he bought. said.

Carts.

Buffet Steaks Seafood SUPPLIES HAVE ARRIVED! Stock up for summer with our best deals of the season on pool care supplies and equipment!

Sa nt e e

& your favorite cocktail!

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800 Bass Drive • Santee, SC 29142

(803) 854-2223

Store Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm Saturday 8am - 5pm • Sunday 2pm - 5pm 44 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

2742 Paxville Hwy (803) 696-4481 Proudly Serving Manning Great Food & Friendly Smiles For Over 20 Years!

Piggly Wiggly We would like to Thank our loyal Clarendon County Patrons who voted us their Best Grocery Store.

Back Row: Left to Right - Jennifer Akers, James Davis, Terry Rodgers, George King Front Row: Left to Right - Margaree Thames, Crystal Jones, Gladys Robinson, Bobby Lyons

Deli Local Since Forever

433-8544

Locally owned • Locally Operated

Rx

433-2412

Sunset Drive • Manning • 433-2118

PHARMACY VISITS CAUSING YOU STRESS? MANAGE THE CHAOS AND GET CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE

We can help ease some of your stress with filling your prescriptions.

No Long Lines - Short Wait Times Friendly Service

• Over-the-counter & prescription remedies • Pain relievers & fever reducers • Cough drops & lozenges • Immune-boosting vitamins & supplements • Heating & cooling pads • Tissues, travel packs, pill cases & more

12 North Brooks Street Manning, SC 29102 803-435-2511 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 6:00 • Sat. 8:30 - Noon • Sun. Closed

Jamie Mathis, PharmD RPH Family Owned

I took a vow . . . I will keep that promise til’ death do us part.

That’s why I bought life insurance from Auto-Owners, to secure your future, no matter what.

25 E. CALHOUN ST • SUMTER (803)-775-1168 • www.crwins.com

Additional parking available behind the pharmacy Most Insurances Accepted, including Tri Care and all Medicare Part D Plans.

APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE 45

2017 PALMETTO GOLD AWARD RECIPIENTS

MCLEOD HEALTH NURSES BRING HOME THE GOLD AGAIN. Nurses play a vital role in the overall hospital experience for patients and their families.

And for exhibiting outstanding excellence in their profession, twelve McLeod Health nurses have received the prestigious Palmetto Gold Award. This level of recognition for our nurses is another reason why McLeod Health is the Choice for Medical Excellence.

Congratulations to all of our 2017 Palmetto Gold Award Recipients FIRST ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: Julie Lambrou, Michele Davies, Bridget Long, Hannah Herring, Sondra Moseley, Penny Pahis SECOND ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: Elaine McElveen, Cheryl Dulac, Thomas Chappell, Cheryl Neuner, Abby Lambert, Chappel Timmons

www.jobs.mcleodhealth.org FLORENCE | CHERAW | CLARENDON | DARLINGTON | DILLON | LORIS | SEACOAST 46 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

Santee Automotive 3UHVHQWV

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Spring Time AT DISCOUNT FURNITURE OUTLET means Great New Looks Great Prices Great Service

Stop by & see why Discount Furniture Outlet has been voted #1 place to buy furniture & mattresses 5 years in a row!

Your local hometown store with over 40,000 sq.ft. of furniture to choose from.

Why wait for your furniture? What you see in our store, you can take home today!

SHOP US ONLINE! WWW.OUTLETFURNITURE.COM

BRAD

CATHY

2891 Broad Street | Sumter, SC 29150

803-469-8733

Live Better For Less

48 APRIL - MAY 2017 | LAKESIDE

Open: Mon-Fri: 9:30am-7pm Sat: 9:30am-5pm | Closed Sunday

WAYNE

MATT

BRIAN

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Cash, Check, Credit Cards & Financing are available. See Store For Details.

-LAYAWAY AVAILABLE-