THENEWSJOURNAL

Professionals of The Year

The South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance has awarded four individuals in the manufacturing industry with the SCMA Professionals of the Year Awards.

Battery factory coming

gigafactory expected

new jobs to area.

Envision AESC, a world-leading Japanese electric vehicle battery technology company, along with Governor Henry McMaster, announced last week it will build a state-of-the-art battery cell gigafactory in Florence County. The $810 million investment will create 1,170

new jobs and will support the company’s multi-year partnership with the BMW Group.

The announcement was made Dec. 6 during a special ceremony held at Francis Marion University.

“What a landmark moment for our community as we welcome Envision AESC to Florence County,” said Florence County Council Chair Willard Dorriety. “This project represents one of the largest announcements in the history of Florence County. The cre-

ation of 1,170 new full-time jobs will provide transformational career opportunities for our citizens.”

“We celebrate Envision AESC’s decision to locate their newest battery facility in Florence,” said Florence Mayor Teresa Myers Ervin . “The successful attraction of an automotive giant like Envision AESC is a testament to the probusiness environment found here in Florence. We know the company’s presence will improve the quality of life for our citizens and

LET THERE BE LIGHT!

neighbors in the decades to come.”

Located in an 870-acre Technology and Commerce Park in Florence, with convenient proximity to the interstate and Inland Port Dillon, the Florence plant will encompass approximately 1.5 million square feet. The new battery plant builds on AESC’s existing United States network that includes a battery manufacturing plant in

Garden Club holds Arbor Day event

The Forget-Me-Not Garden Club held a special Arbor Day ceremony on Dec. 8 . . . Page 7

City begins phase of improvements

The City of Florence recently kicked off the first phase of its Stormwater Capital Improvement Program . . . . . . . . . . . Page 8

Tree lighting highlights Christmas Magic festival

The streets of Downtown Florence were filled with the magic of Christmas on Friday night as the Florence Downtown Development Corp. presented the fifth Annual Downtown Christmas Magic Festival.

The evening began with the annual lighting of the City-County Christmas Tree at the Griffin Plaza in the 100 block of S. Dargan St. The festival followed with the lights of the Downtown Holiday Lights and Music Show presented by Duke Energy being turned on for the first time this season.

HAPPY PLACE: I love the atmosphere at Victor’s. I also love sitting at home in my recliner while my family and friends are over for game night.

HOBBIES: In my spare time, I love to travel, read, and cook.

Other parts of the festival were a Jingle and Mingle Kids Zone with plenty of games, crafts, face painting, and balloon twisting. The Kid Zone was sponsored by Kinghorn Insurance and Auto-Owners Insurance. A new addition for this year was a 25 ft. tall gingerbread slide for adults and older children and gingerbread bounce for our youngest

The City of Florence Christmas Parade will take place Saturday at 11 a.m.

The parade route closes at 9 a.m. from Evans Street at S. Sunset Drive eastbound to Evans Street at Coit Street. The parade line-up is from 9 to 11 a.m. The parade will proceed eastbound on W. Evans Street, ending at the Hyatt Hotel-Downtown Florence.

South Florence’s state championship football team will be celebrated durign the parade.

For more information on the Florence Christmas Parade, contact Councilwoman Pat Gibson Hye Moore at (843) 472-9420.

Christmas parade set for Saturday More than 250 to graduate from FMU

Francis Marion University will hold commencement ceremonies on Friday, and Saturday for its fall 2022 graduating class.

Two ceremonies will be held in the Smith University Center and include over 250 graduates from the university’s four academic schools and colleges. Each graduate will be allowed eight guests, and a ticket is required for entry.

Guests without tickets may watch the livestream in Chapman Auditorium. The livestream will also be

NAME: Lakisha Timmons

$810 million

to bring 1,170

Florence Mayor Teresa Myers Ervin, left, and Willard Dorriety, Chairperson of the Florence County Council, pose for a photo after lighting the Christmas Tree in Downtown Florence on Friday.

God is able to bring us peace

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I am a small business owner and my company has earned a respectable standing in the community. I’ve worked hard not to be a taskmaster, but I do expect all my employees to serve the company with honesty, integrity, and a good work ethic. In recent months, I’ve come under fire by an employee who is rebelling against my company policies by stirring up trouble in the community against my business. Some friends have encouraged me to soften my policies, but I cannot in good conscience change how I’ve always conducted my business.

Am I wrong? – B.C.

A: The story is told of a young president of an East Coast company who instructed his secretary each morning not to disturb him, because he had an important appointment. One morning the chairman of the board arrived unannounced and said, “I want to see Mr. Jones.” The secretary answered, “I’m sorry, he cannot be disturbed.” The chairman became angry and

banged open the door. When the chairman saw the president of the corporation on his knees in prayer, he quietly backed out of the office and softly closed the door. He asked the secretary, “Is that usual?” She responded, “Yes sir, every morning.” The chairman replied, “No wonder we come to him for advice.”

The Bible says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all

attendees.

Guests also enjoyed free hot cocoa and marshmallow

roasting. And of course, no Christmas festival is complete without Santa! Even

The Grinch made an appearance.

The Downtown Christmas Magic Holiday Light Show is free and runs nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. with

liberally” (James 1:5). Integrity is the glue that holds our way of life together. There may be those who react to our way of life in scorn; others may take offense at another’s unshakable faith but still they respect honesty, truthfulness, and a personal faith in Jesus Christ. A man of integrity can be trusted. “You have upheld me because of my integrity, and set me in your presence forever” (Psalm 41:12, ESV).

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.) ©2022 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Tommy Lee “Silly” Alexander, 60, passed away Dec. 3. Ideal Funeral Home.

Antonio P. Beach, 33, passed away Dec. 7. Draper G. Myers Mortuary.

Donald Eli Bellefeuil, 87, passed away Dec. 10. Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home.

Illinois Brown, 66, passed away Dec. 9. Ideal Funeral Home.

Emma Jean Small “Bug” Dalrymple, 70, passed away Dec.5. Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home.

Paul Kistler Dudley, 98, passed away Dec. 7. Belk Funeral Home.

Mark Christopher Dawkins, 56, passed away Dec. 3. Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home.

Kathryn Eaton Edwards, 84, passed away Dec. 9 Waters-Powell Funeral Home.

Willie Evins Sr., 72, passed away Dec. 6. Ideal Funeral Home.

Michelle R. Haney, 51, passed away Dec. 5. KistlerHardee Funeral Home.

William B. Hare passed away Dec. 9. Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home.

Noah Emanuel Hartz, 16, passed away Dec. 6 Waters-Powell Funeral Home.

Sadie Jones Jackson, 84, passed away Dec. 7. Cain-Calcutt Funeral Home.

Cleo Junior Lee, 86, passed away Dec. 4. Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home.

Clarence Edward Lewis, 79, passed away Dec. 10. Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home.

Bright McElveen, 78, passed away Dec. 5. Ideal Funeral Home.

Julie McElveen Moody, 79, passed away Dec. 2. Cain-Calcutt Funeral Home.

John Palestis, 76, passed away Dec. 2. Draper G. Myers Mortuary.

Bambi Austin Parnell, 59, passed away Dec. 9. Layton-Anderson Funeral Home.

Hoyt Alexander Perkins Sr., 89, passed away Dec. 7. Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home.

Eneida Pineiro, 64, passed away Dec. 8. LaytonAnderson Funeral Home.

Gilberto Ramos-Roman, 82, passed away Dec. 3. Cain-Calcutt Funeral Home.

Isaias Escobedo Rangel, 83, passed away Dec. 7. Cain-Calcutt Funeral Home.

Anna Marie Vassy, 38, passed away Dec. 7. Layton-Anderson Funeral Home.

Susan Virgina Carter Weinberg, 70, passed away Dec. 6. Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home.

Alphonzo Williams, 64, passed away Dec. 1. Ideal Funeral Home.

Larry Roland Young, 78, passed away Dec. 7 Waters-Powell Funeral Home.

Drive-through visit with Santa Saturday

shows every 25 minutes through Dec. 31.

For additional information, visit www.florencedowntown.com, or call 843-678-5913.

The Durant Children’s Center and the Junior League of Florence will offer Cookies and Cocoa with Santa Drive-Through on Saturday, Dec. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m

During the event, children will have the opportunity to wave to Santa and deliver

your Christmas lists straight to his mailbox. Cookies and cocoa will be provided. The annual event is free and open to the public.

Durant Children’s Center, a program of Pee Dee Coalition, is located at 226 South Irby St. in Downtown Florence.

MUSICAL SANTA: Santa Claus plays the guitar during the Florence Regional Arts Alliance’s inaugural holiday music production of “Christmas in Carolina: a Hometown Music Show,” at the Florence Little Theatre in 2012. Do you have an old photo you would like to submit for The News Journal’s Do You Remember? You may do so by emailing a digital copy of the photo, including information about the photo, to editor@florencenewsjournal.com. You may also submit photos and information in person at our office, located at 312 Railroad Ave.

First Amendment to The Constitution

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Coping with the blues at Christmas

It’s that time of year again. The Christmas season is in full swing and with it comes all sorts of emotions. For many people, this means feeling overworked, stressed out, and exhausted. For others, the grief associated with celebrating the holidays without a loved one for the first time (or anytime, for that matter), can be extremely overwhelming.

Having a case of the Christmas blues is not at all uncommon. You then see others having a holly, jolly good time and it makes you feel even worse. We need to be mindful that Christmas might not be very merry for some.

The term “Christmas blues” was first used in the 1960s by psychologists to describe a set of feelings that they believed were common during the holiday season. They characterized it as sadness, loneliness, or depression—a sense of being down or blue at this time of year. Symptoms of Christmas blues include: Feeling down or sad; lack of energy and motivation; procrastination is due to a lack of motivation (called “holiday paralysis” because it can be worse than normal procrastination.); increased stress levels; feeling lonely or isolated, even if you’re surrounded by people; difficulty sleeping or oversleeping; and changes in appetite, either eating more or less than usual.

The Christmas blues are often the result of unrealistic demands and expectations.

One of the most common causes is feeling pressure to have a “perfect” holiday. Another factor is spending time with family and friends who may not be supportive or understanding of your feelings. Many people feel sad during the holidays because they cannot afford to buy presents or travel.

Here are a few tips taken from www.mantracare.com that may help prevent you from getting a bad case of the Christmas: blues:

• Set reasonable goals for yourself. Don’t overdo the gifts and parties.

• Avoid overcommitting yourself by simply saying “thanks, but no.”

• Spend time with supportive people who will understand and listen to what you’re feeling rather than try to change your mood.

• If possible, take a break from family gatherings by excusing yourself for a walk, nap, or some other activity that will give you a short respite from the stress of the holidays.

• If the Christmas blues are impacting your quality of life or causing significant distress, please seek professional help.

If you know someone who is experiencing the Christmas blues, there are a few things that you can do to help:

• Listen and validate their feelings. Avoid trying to cheer them up or change their mood—this will only make them feel worse.

• Offer support by reminding your loved ones of all the good things they have going for them in life right now.

• Don’t take it personally if they don’t want to spend time with you during the holiday season. Try inviting them out another day when they might be feeling better.

• Be patient and understanding throughout this tough time and offer ongoing emotional support as needed.

• Provide practical support such as helping with holiday preparations, running errands, or just listening when they need someone to talk to.

It can be difficult to see someone we care about struggling during the holidays.

By following these tips, you can help make the season a little brighter.

Good reads are a great gift

We may have started a new Christmas tradition in our home. For the second consecutive Christmas, everyone in our family gets four gifts. We have special tags that signify the four items – Want, Need, Wear, and Read.

All four are self-explanatory. The first, Want, is a surcee of sorts. Something you might not need, but really want. Most of us have lots of these. The second, Need, is normally something like underwear, socks or pajamas. Nothing to get overly excited about - we all have necessities.

Wear, of course, refers to some form of clothing or attire – anything from a cashmere scarf to a pair of top-dollar kicks. This category is easy for women and quite problematic for us guys. Speaking for all mankind, I would say most of the masculine world hasn’t got a clue in terms of sizes for their partner’s clothing. And let’s avoid altogether the topic of fashion sense.

The fourth and final category, Read, is my personal favorite. It’s my sweet spot. Everybody’s getting something to read, whether they like it or not. It will likely be a book, but it could be an ebook or even a magazine subscription. If you get a book, chances are there will be an inscription on the inside cover. I have tons of these, most of which were gifted to me by my grandmother who was the head librarian at the University of North Carolina for many,

many years.

Editor

For all of those in search of a book to give as a gift this Christmas, here are three recently published books by local authors: • Second Chronicles: The Irreverent Reverend Rides Again, by Dr. Joseph “Joe” A Baroody Jr. with Susan Kammeraad-Campbell.

Baroody is a pastoral counselor and an ordained Baptist minister in Florence. He has served as chaplain, minister, and counselor at hospitals and medical centers. He has been in private counseling practice since 2001.

“Rides Again” is the follow up to his first offering, “Chronicles of An Irreverent Reverend: What goes Wrong Can Make You Better,” published in 2013 by Jogglingboard Press. In it, Baroody adds to his collection of quirky, but hilarious true-life stories.

Among the short stories found in “Rides Again” are “Bathroom Seminar,” in which the author describes getting his four-year-old granddaughter ready for bed by going over proper bathroom etiquette; and “Grace,” a story about himself as teenager, an ill-fated attempt at a party while his parents were away, his first sermon, and a lesson on

mercy and forgiveness. Both books are available on Amazon.com and from other online bookstores.

You can purchase either books locally at Hamilton House Antiques, Goosie Ganders Interiors and Gifts, and Pieces Boutique.

• Greenway Drive: Growing Up in Darlington, South Carolina, by Stanley Drawdy and Keith Carter.

Sadly, Drawdy did not live to see his book released by Christian Faith Publishing in late November. A longtime educator and athletics coach in Darlington and Florence counties, Drawdy died on Sept. 1 at the age of 68.

After graduating from Francis Marion University Drawdy became a science teacher and coach at St. Johns High School. He then moved to Hannah-Pamplico High School where he worked in many positions including athletic director, coach, teacher and assistant principal. He was also a professor for the United States Sports Academy and owner of Drawdy Properties.

The 242-page book draws on Drawdy’s memories of growing up in Darlington.

Among those offering reviews of the book are Wilbur Vaughan, a retired Darlington County School District administrator, and Ronnie Ward, a lifelong citizen and former mayor of Darlington.

"Thank you for a wonderful collection of memories from growing up in the

1950s and 1960s,” wrote Vaughn. “The Greenway Drive kids were unique in their creative ways to enjoy each other with the support of great parents. Whether or not you have connections to the young people who grew up on Greenway Drive, you will enjoy this book."

“The best thing about Darlington, South Carolina, is its people,” stated Ward. “Greenway Drive is a factual account of the relationships and lifelong friendships created in one of its neighborhoods. This quality of life still exists in Darlington where people continue to work, play, and worship together.”

“Greenway Drive: Growing Up in Darlington, South Carolina” is available for purchase on amazon.com and from other online bookstores.

• Super Rivers, written and illustrated by Jerry Jayden Rivers III.

The author and illustrator, a 10-year-old who lives in Florence, was inspired to write a book that combined his favorite things: family, superheroes and faith. In his book, Rivers tells of a family that has superpowers and was created to defeat evil. He wants his readers to understand that everyone has the inner power to defeat evil. Rivers’ father is a pastor in Florence.

Super Rivers is available for purchase on Amazon.com and from other online bookstores.

Editor Bob Sloan at editor@florence newsjournal.com

When a child asks Santa for a cell phone

This time of year, children are making their lists so Santa can check them twice. And chances are, there’s some sort of device on the list. Whether it be the latest smartphone, smartwatch or tablet – technology has become such an integral part of our lives, and children are asking for these devices younger and younger.

Parents seem to be listening. Approximately 70% of people say they plan to purchase a tech-related gift for their child this holiday season, according to a recent survey by Recon Analytics.

However, for many parents, the decision of when to give a child their first connected device is not about if they are naughty or nice, but rather are they ready for such a responsibility? Are they mature enough to take care of it, to follow the rules and manage impulses? Also, things far scarier than the Grinch can be lurking on the other side of a smartphone or tablet.

Unfortunately, kids can and do use cellphones inappropriately. An AT&T commissioned survey found 68% of teens say they see content online their parents

would consider inappropriate. And 79% say they have experienced inappropriate online behaviors including hurtful comments, unwelcome messages and disturbing or fake news stories.

On the other hand, if a child spends a lot of time away from home with friends or doing extracurricular activities, getting a device for a child may provide peace of mind to a parent. A quick text to check in now and then, and things like AT&T’s Secure Family App that can pinpoint a child’s location at any time, can mean the parent will appreciate the device as much as the kid.

Which is probably why, more than half of children in the U.S. will have a cell phone by the time they’re 11 and 69% have one at age 12. However, experts agree that this decision is not just about age. It’s

about your child’s developmental maturity and your family’s values. It’s also about the steps you can take to help your child develop a healthy relationship with technology, starting with the responsible use of their first device.

Each child and family is different. That’s why AT&T teamed up with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to develop the PhoneReady Quiz. It’s aimed at helping parents make the decision that is right for their child and family by walking them through 10 evidence-based questions developed by pediatricians.

The quiz also shares information on how parents can help prepare their child for this responsibility, including important steps to aid your child in developing healthy digital habits for a safe and positive online experience.

If you don’t feel ready to let your child have a phone yet, that’s OK. The online tool offers useful tips and resources to help you prepare for when the time is right. Take the quiz again when you feel you and your child may be ready.

Unfortunately, Rudolph

can’t guide you on this one. It’s a personal decision for each family, but hopefully with some tools and resources to help, the choice will be a little easier for your family to make.

312 Railroad Avenue Florence, SC 29506 843-667-9656 www.florencenewsjournal.com

Don Swartz publisher@florencenewsjournal.com EDITOR Bob Sloan editor@florencenewsjournal.com

BOOKKEEPER

Harlie James accounting@florencenewsjournal.com COMPOSITION Beth Streett production@florencenewsjournal.com A publication of S wartz Media

Cara Fields is the vice president general manager for AT&T Southeast States.

Contact

“The Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son,

Bob Sloan

Cara Fields Guest Columnist

The South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance has awarded four individuals in the manufacturing industry with the SCMA Professionals of the Year Awards.

The SCMA Professionals of the Year Awards recognize individuals who work at South Carolina manufacturing facilities and are employed in the finance, human resources, legal and policy, and operations fields. Individuals were nominated and selected based on criteria showing the nominee has excelled in their careers and contributed significantly to the broader community. The 2022 SCMA Professionals of the Year are:

• Finance Professional of the Year: Roger Buckley, Tax Director, Sonoco Products Company;

• Operations Professional of the Year: Ron Freed, Production Support Manager, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. South Carolina Manufacturing;

• Human Resources Professional of the Year: Wanda

Herron, Human Resources Manager, A.O. Smith; • Legal and Policy Professional of the Year: Robert Wick, General Counsel and Secretary, Schaeffler Group USA Inc.

“We are thrilled to honor four exceptional manufacturing professionals in South Carolina,” said Sara Hazzard, President and CEO of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance. “Manufacturing drives economic growth and prosperity, strengthens communities, and creates a better future for all South Carolinians. The individuals awarded this prestigious recognition have a passion for excellence and service and are leaders amongst their peers.”

Roger Buckley

Buckley is the director of Tax at Sonoco in Hartsville.

He is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, is a graduate from South Illinois University with a master’s in accounting and tax, and is a

Certified Public Accountant.

He serves as chair of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance Tax & Economic Development Committee, chair of the United Way of Hartsville, and chair of the Darlington County Economic Development Partnership.

Buckley has a passion for economic development and was recognized in 2014 as an Ambassador for Economic Development by Governor Nikki Haley.

Robert Wick

Wick is the general counsel and secretary of the Schaeffler Group USA, Inc. in Fort Mill. He is a graduate of The Citadel with a bachelor’s degree in History and a graduate of the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University with a Juris Doctor degree.

In his role at Schaeffler, Wick serves as the key lawyer for automotive and industrial customers for Schaeffler Group globally, with substantial experience drafting and

negotiating complex commercial transactions. He is also the main legal contact for HRrelated issues, including health & safety, real estate & insurance, and government relations & advocacy for Schaeffler.

Wick is a board member of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance, serves on the board of the S.C. Automotive Council, and recently joined the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance’s Corporate Counsel Committee as one of its founding members. He is a strategic and collaborative business partner who enables risk mitigation in a businessfriendly manner.

Ron Freed

Freed is the production support manager at American Honda Motor Co. Inc, South Carolina Manufacturing in Timmonsville. He began his career with the Honda in 1998 as a production welder and has worked in many areas of manufacturing including operational support roles.

Freed served as the assembly manager for the launch of the production for the Honda Pioneer side-byside vehicle, which is a popular model among powersports enthusiasts across the world. Approximately 375,000 sideby-side vehicles have been produced at the Timmonsville facility since production of the Pioneer began.

Freed has served as a member and chair of the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance Plant Operations Committee, and is a passionate advocate of the manufacturing industry and the opportunities it extends to South Carolina’s workforce.

Herron

Wanda

Herron is the Human Resources manager for A.O. Smith in McBee. She is a

graduate of West Virginia University with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, a graduate of Marshall University with a master’s degree in Technical Education, and is a Certified Professional in Human Resources.

In her role at A.O. Smith, Herron is responsible for recruitment, retention, talent development, employee relations, EHS, and a myriad of other human resources management areas. Under her leadership, the Human

Resources department at A.O. Smith has developed four different apprenticeship programs and is attributed for improving employee relations throughout the facility.

Over the years Herron has been an active participate in a number of organizations that include the Midlands Workforce Development Board, the Society of Human Resource Management, American Society of Personnel Administrators, and the Midlands Human Resource Association.

S.C. Manufacturers Alliance President and CEO Sara Hazzard, right, presents the Finance Professional of the Year Award to Roger Buckley.

Shown, left to right, are Dan Royston, Wanda Herron, and Sunny Philips.

RACK LOCATIONS

FLORENCE

Bazens Family Restaurant - 704 S. Irby Street

Boys & Girls Club - 310 W. Roughfork Street

B.P. - 4798 E. Palmetto Street

B.P. - 400 Pamplico Hwy.

BTC Building - 181 E. Evans Street

Captain D's - 201 Second Loop Road

Carolina Bank - 1538 S. Irby Street

Carolina Collectables - 1224A S. Irby Street

Carolinian - 718 S. Dargan Street

Carriage House - 739 Parker Drive

Chris’s Diner - 1513 Pamplico Hwy.

Convenience Corner Shell - 1315 Pamplico Hwy.

Courtyard by Marriott - 2680 Hospitality Blvd.

Dr. Welch - 1343 Second Loop Road

Drs. Bruce and Lee Foundation Library - 509 S. Dargan Street

Elmcroft - 3006 Hoffmeyer Road

Fairfield Inn - 501 Woody Jones Blvd.

Finklea Law - 814 W. Evans Street

Florence Chamber of Commerce - 100 W. Evans Street

Florence Center - 3300 W. Radio Drive (3 locations)

Florence Little Theatre - 300 S. Dargan Street

Florence Pediatric Dentistry - 680 Senior Way

Golden Crown - 1988 W. Palmetto Street

Gregg Brothers Store - 3045 Francis Marion Road

Harris Teeter - 1930 W. Palmetto Street

Healthy Food Store - 2015 Elijah Ludd Road

Hotel Florence - 126 W. Evans Street

IGA - 525 E. Ebenezer Road

IGA - 2300 Pamplico Hwy.

INS Foods Exxon - 2351 Pamplico Hwy.

Janney - 1831 W. Evans Street, Suite 220

Jumpin J's - 898 S. Irby Street

King Cadillac Buick GMC - 1700 W. Evans Street

KP 76 Express - 3105 E. Palmetto Street

Liquors of Florence - 1200 W. Evans Street

Manna House - 450 Jarrott Street

Markette #16 - 1419 S. Irby Street

Mike Reichenbach Customer Service - 600 N. Coit Street

MUSC Health - Florence Medical Center - 800 Pamplico Hwy.

Emergency/waiting, Jazzmans, elevator area, Mall C entrance, Womans Center main entrance

New Generations - 2111 W. Jody Road

Palmetto Chop Shop - 1927 W. Palmetto Street

Paul Davis Dentistry - 220 A Cherokee Road

Pee Dee Thrift Store - 1650 E. Palmetto Street

Pee Dee Thrift Store - 1524 S. Irby Street

Phoenix Mart - 2698 David McLeod Blvd.

Poynor Adult Education - 301 S. Dargan Street

Presbyterian Home - 2350 W. Lucas Street

Residence Inn - 2660 Hospitality Blvd

Rogers BBQ - 2004 Second Loop Road

Senior Center - 600 Senior Way

Shannon's - 2554 W. Palmetto Street

South Florence Exxon - 3099 S. Irby Street

South Florence Feed & Seed - 3901 S. Irby Street

Southland Healthcare - 722 S. Dargan Street

Springhill Suites by Marriott - 2670 Hospitality Blvd.

Stifel Nicolaus - 1325 Cherokee Road

The Manor - 2100 Twin Church Road

The Wash Tub Laundry - 910 E. Palmetto Street

The Wash Tub Laundry - 124 S. Cashua Drive

The Wash Tub Laundry - 1350 James Jones Avenue

Towne Place - 2650 Hospitality Blvd.

Toyota Customer Service - 2300 W. Palmetto Street

Triple T Freightliner - 190 West Freight Road

Venus - 317 W. Palmetto Street

Wells Fargo Advisors - 1801 W. Evans Street

White Swan Cleaners - 223 Cherokee Road

World Finance - 2015-H W. Evans Street

YMCA - 1700 Rutherford Drive

PAMPLICO

IGA- 624 S. Walnut Street

Longs Pharmacy - 616 S. Walnut Street

Munn Hardware - 185 E. Main Street

Pearl’s Harbor Seafood & Grill - 137 E. Main Street

Pamplico Public Library - 100 E. Main Street

Service Motor Co. - 160 E. Main Street

QUINBY

Carolina Convenience Store - 2099 N. Irby Street

IGA - 900 E. Ashby Road

TIMMONSVILLE

Citizens Bank - 4700 W. Palmetto Street

Fast Track - 721 E. Smith Street

Georges Restaurant - 405 E. Smith Street

IGA - 310 E. Smith Street

Library - 298 E. Smith Street

DARLINGTON

Bethea Home - 157 Home Avenue

Cruizers - 1504 S. Main Street

IGA - 207 S. Main Street

Sav-Way - 102 Lamar Hwy.

Wash Tub Laundry - 104 E. Broad Street

Chef Experience at market a huge success

The City Center Market and HopeHealth joined together to provide a unique cooking experience this fall. The folks at the Chef Experience secured chefs from across the country to come to Florence and provide a hands-on cooking class. The class featured fresh and local ingredients from the City Center Market and a creative healthy take on the foods we love. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the expression and flare of a professional chef, while also creating a healthy conversation about food, cooking techniques and expanding our food palettes.

MUSC Health Florence earns safety awards

MUSC Health Florence and Marion Medical Centers earned a combined 12 South Carolina “Certified Zero Harm Awards” from the South Carolina Hospital Association.

These awards are in recognition of outstanding performance for patient safety and the prevention of hospital-acquired infections.

“Providing the best patient care is always a top priority,” MUSC Health Florence Division Chief Executive Officer Jay Hinesley said. “This recognition is evidence of our efforts to provide consistent, safe health care in our communities and to our patients.”

The clinical-focused Certified Zero Harm Awards remains a unique statewide program thanks to SCHA’s collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Health & Environmental Control, who independently validates the hospital data.

The program is also sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, which helps support the work and recognize hospitals for their clinical achievements. These awards are based on real health care outcomes in South Carolina, demonstrating that patient safety and highly reliable care are cornerstones of the state’s hospital community.

The Zero Harm program began in 2013 to recognize hospitals that are on the fore-

front of preventing medical errors, which is a leading cause of death in the United States. Thanks to support from BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, the state’s hospitals and health systems have engaged in numerous statewide efforts to create a culture of high reliability and reduce harm in our facilities by implementing robust, evidence-based practices that are making a positive impact on patients and the safety and quality of care.

MUSC Health Florence Medical Center sustained four zero bloodstream infection awards in the Cardiovascular Intensive Critical Care Unit, Medical Intensive Care Unit, Orthopaedic/Neurologic Medical Surgical Unit, and the Progressive Care Unit. Two other awards are for no Surgical Site Infections in Abdominal Hysterectomy and Drive to Zero Suicide Award.

MUSC Health Florence Rehabilitation Center sustained three hospital awards for no Clostridium difficile (C.diff), no Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, and no hospital-wide bloodstream infections.

MUSC Health Marion Medical Center sustained one bloodstream infection award hospital-wide and another award for no colon surgery site infections. In addition, it received a Drive to Zero Suicide Award.

Tennessee and a plant under construction in Kentucky. Collectively, when complete, these plants will provide up to 70GWh capacity nationally and power the United States’ shift to electric vehicles.

Forget-Me-Not Garden Club holds Arbor Day event

The Forget-Me-Not Garden Club held a special Arbor Day ceremony on Dec. 8 in which they planted and dedicated a tree in the front yard of the newest home built by the Greater Florence County Habitat for Humanity on West Vista Drive.

Members of the club gathered with homeowner

Nikki Chavis, Greater Florence County Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Debbie Edwards, Travis Cooper of Cooper & Associates, and others for the ceremony. The tree, a Viridis Japanese Maple, was provided by Tommy Taylor and Taylor Garden and Gift Shop.

During the ceremony, Forget-Me-Not Garden Club

member Beth Ann Owen read the poem “Tree,” by Joyce Kilmer. Also, Nancy Stewart shared comments on the importance and beauty of trees.

Edwards said she hopes the house, the 49th home made possible through the Greater Florence County Habitat for Humanity, will be completed before Christmas.

accessible online at www.fmarion.edu and on the FMU YouTube channel.

Similar to recent commencements, the ceremonies will be condensed.

FMU President Fred Carter

will deliver remarks. Following the ceremonies, light refreshments will be provided on the UC lawn by the FMU Alumni Association.

Friday’s ceremony for students in the School of

Business/School of Health Sciences will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday’s ceremony for students in the School of Education/College of Liberal Arts will begin at 10 a.m.

As part of the partnership with BMW announced in October, AESC will supply technology-leading battery cells to be used in the next generation electric vehicle models produced at the BMW Group’s Plant Spartanburg. The advanced battery format will result in 20% more energy density than the current generation, reduce charging time and increase range and efficiency for electric vehicles by 30%.

“South Carolina has been an automotive manufacturing powerhouse for over 30 years, and Envision AESC’s decision to establish operations in Florence County and to create jobs for thousands of South Carolinians shows that we will continue to be one for years to come,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “We have the workforce, business friendly environment, and the willingness to adapt to industry’s innovation necessary to ensure that companies that choose to do business here will find the success they’re looking for.”

Aligning with the company’s global commitment to sustainability, the new, 30GWh manufacturing plant will be powered by 100% net zero carbon energy. AESC leverages leading net-zero system solutions from

across the business, including renewable energy generation, carbon reduction through artificial intelligence, energy management systems, and battery recycling to accelerate carbon neutrality across the whole battery value chain. The company is also committed to pursuing responsible sources for its critical battery components –cobalt, lithium and nickel –providing full transparency of extraction methods and increasing reliance on recycled materials, which will contribute to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from cell production in the new plant.

“Our partnership with Florence County, South Carolina is part of our next phase battery strategy to power next generation EVs in the U.S., said AESC Group CEO Shoichi Matsumoto. “This facility is another milestone on our journey to building an electrification network in the U.S. and strengthens our commitment to grow the electrification supply chain while providing high value jobs for the community for years to come. We are making good progress on our ambition to create high-performance, longer-range batteries for a diverse range of automotive manufacturers worldwide to support the EV transition and we’re excited to bring Florence County on this journey with us.”

Individuals interested in joining the AESC team should visit readySC’s

recruitment website to explore opportunities. Companies interested in becoming a supplier for the company should complete S.C. Commerce’s online interest form.

“The new plant will produce technology-leading battery cells for BMW Group’s Plant Spartanburg and create 1,170 new high-value jobs in the region when at full capacity,” said AESC U.S. Managing Director Jeff Deaton. “South Carolina already has an outstanding automotive footprint, and we are delighted to offer new jobs in the high growth electrification segment, to attract and retain the state's highly skilled workforce. The addition of this new facility will put Florence at the forefront of the United States’ EV transformation and will help attract future investment in the region.”

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development, after review and comment by the Joint Bond Review Committee, awarded a $135 million Closing Fund grant to Florence County to assist with costs related to the project, and the state authorized the issuance of up to $70 million in state general economic development bonds to offset the costs of off-site infrastructure and a training center to support the project.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development also awarded job development credits related to this project.

Members of the Forget-Me-Not Garden Club join with homeowner Nikki Chavis during the Dec. 8 ceremony. Shown left to right, are Zilphy DuRant, Brenda Hendrick, Ann McNair, Gale Dixon, Nikki Chavis (homeowner), Beth Ann Owen, Nancy Rawl, Jan Hursey, Nancy Stewart, Catherine Thompson, and Maureen Eckels.

NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION YARD OF THE

MONTH

The Jayne H. Boswell animal shelter is a partnership with the Florence Area Humane Society and the City of Florence. The shelter is located at 1434 McCurdy Road and is open Tuesday through Saturday, from noon to 5 p.m. Contact them by phone at (843) 629-5456.

Pets of the Week

home is

Street. Thank you to all the winners for demonstrating superb efforts in support of the City’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program. The purpose of the program is to recognize neighbors that live in the City of Florence’s Neighborhood Revitalization areas (North, Northwest, and East Florence) who demonstrate above-average efforts in maintaining their property, thus, contributing to the overall appearance of the community at large.For more information, please contact Retha S. Brown at (843) 665-3175 or rbrown@cityofflorence.com.

at 501 E.

Adoption fees are $65 for cats and $85 for dogs. The fee includes first vaccines and spay/neuter. The shelter is always in need of volunteers, foster families, and donations.

www.florencehumanesociety.org

City begins phase one of stormwater improvements

The City of Florence is kicking off the first phase of its Stormwater Capital Improvement Program. This will include heavy cleaning and debris removal of approximately 11,000 linear feet of existing storm drain line near the following streets: Malden Dr., Saint Anthony Ave., Sandhurst Dr. and Waccamaw Dr.

“Flooding has been a concern in Florence for some time. Rain events are increasing in frequency and severity, and it is time we

act,” said Mayor Teresa Myers Ervin. “The fact is, infrastructure decays with use, and we need to make these upgrades to protect our homes, our businesses, and our city. This is the first step towards a safer, more resilient future for Florence.”

Significant rain events have stressed infrastructure that needs to be improved due to age or its initial design capacity. In recent months, the remnants of Hurricane Ian tested the stormwater system. Work began Dec. 7

and should be completed in the spring of 2023. During this time, residents can expect City staff and contractors to be completing a variety of tasks in the areas mentioned above.

This may include cleaning out underground pipes, performing field inspections of structures and ditches, and testing water quality. Most work will be completed in the public right-of-way. Staff will contact home and business owners directly if they need access to private property.

Additionally, the engineering and design for the stormwater improvements in the Pennsylvania St. watershed is underway. Residents living in this area should expect to see surveying, and other field work to help determine the best solutions for the stormwater issues within this area.

Future projects within our Stormwater Capital Improvement Program also include improvements to watershed areas in the vicinities of Rebecca Street,

Cannon Street, and Woodland Drive.

The city is looking for public input to help refine locations that are experiencing flooding, drainage concerns or water quality issues in preparation of a Stormwater Master Plan.

Signs of stormwater issues include flooded yards, impassable streets, discolored or foul-smelling stormwater runoff or sediment deposits after a storm. The city will hold four public meetings next year to facilitate this conversation.

Sunshine Opportunity Scholarships available

The Sunshine Opportunity Scholarships program is accepting applications from high school seniors in Florence and Marion for its 2023 college scholarships.

The application period runs from Dec. 1 through March 2, 2023.

Offered since 2019 to students in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, the scholarship program was expanded in 2022 to include West, South and Wilson high schools in Florence and Marion High School in Marion.

The awards are worth

$25,000 over four years ($6,250 per year), renewable annually for students who remain in good academic standing. Up to 10 scholarships are expected to be awarded. Winners will be notified in April. Students may apply online at www.sunshineopportunityscholarships.com.

The awards are sponsored by the Godbold Foundation Inc. of Tierra Verde, Fla. For more information, contact scholarship administrator, Nancy Waclawek, at nancy@sunshineopportunityscholarships.com.

Huckleberry, left, is a seven-month-old neutered male kitten. He is a fun loving guy who needs a home. Dollop above, is a three-year-old spayed female terrier mix. She has been at the shelter more than three months.

Congratulations to Margaret Johnson for winning The City of Florence’s November Yard of the Month. Johnson’s

located

Pine

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PROPERTY

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any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. • (TFN)

This position requires a creative self-starting individual to maintain our existing account list while establishing new clients. Experience preferred. References required with resume. Base salary $26,000/year plus commission. EOE Email resume to production@florencenewsjournal.com or fax to 843-661-7102

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