OF MPD ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Where Stories Begin
Jack’s Books writes a new chapter in downtown Florence Page 6
PHOTO BY ALICIA STONE PHOTOGRAPHY
mpd.coop
OFFICE LOCATIONS
1301 E. Pocket Road
P.O. Box 100561
Florence, SC 29502
843-665-4070
676 Highway 9 East
P.O. Box 1057
Bennettsville, SC 29512
843-479-3855
REPORT POWER OUTAGES
866-747-0060
OFFICE HOURS
8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
PRESIDENT/CEO
William L. Fleming Jr.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
John Alford
Melvin Carabo
Preston Gainey
James Goodson
Eddie Gordon
David Howell
Sam P. “Bo” McInnis Jr., Chairman
Robert Norton
Hamer Parnell
Jeff Quick, Secretary
Ronald “Ronnie” Quick
William “Buster” Rogers, Chaplain
Janelle Sauls
LaShon Sellers, Vice Chairman
Charles R. “Ricky” Smith
Don R. Teal
Patricia Ann Toney
Lee C. White
CO-OP NEWS EDITORS
Katie W. Wilcox, CCC email: kwilcox@mpd.coop
Matt Haynie email: mhaynie@mpd.coop
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to serve the energy needs of our members today and in the future at the lowest cost consistent with sound economic principles and management.
MPD Electric Cooperative Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Happy National Lineman Appreciation Day
Each year, MPD Electric Cooperative celebrates National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 18. This day is a big deal to us, because linemen power our lives.
Every day, MPD Electric linemen climb power poles and work with high-voltage electricity. Crews work in dangerous conditions, repairing lines and equipment in all kinds of weather, from heat waves and hurricanes to frigid temperatures and ice storms.
Their work not only requires physical strength and technical expertise, but it also requires them to be brave, as electric linework is consistently ranked one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Even with personal protective equipment and advanced technology designed to help keep workers safe, federal occupational safety data shows linemen experience 6,000 nonfatal occupational injuries and 40 fatalities every year. Falls, broken bones and electrical burns are the job’s biggest risks.
In addition to their daily responsibilities of maintaining and repairing infrastructure, linemen are on call 24/7 in case of emergencies. Whether they’re restoring power after a major storm or maintaining critical infrastructure for our electric system, linemen are at the heart of everything we do.
You can also find our linemen coaching ball teams, volunteering in their communities and churches, and attending career and vehicle days at our elementary schools. Since the beginning of 2025, our linemen have visited more than 600 students to teach them about the responsibilities of being a lineman.
MPD honors these electrical first responders who install, maintain and repair power lines, and keep power flowing to hospitals, police and fire stations, water treatment plants, the traffic grid, the places we work and, most importantly, our homes.
In honor of National Lineman Appreciation Day, send an MPD Electric lineman a thank you this month at mpd.coop. We’ll make sure they know how much you appreciate all they do.
LASHON SELLERS Trustee
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT
Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Chasity Anderson, CCC
SC CURRENTS EDITORS
Jennifer Paton, CCC
Valeri Saldanha Rosa
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Victoria Hampton, CCC
David Herder, CCC
Sable Riley, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
SENIOR MANAGER, PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
South Carolina Currents (issue 71) is published monthly, except in December, by Pioneer Utility Resources, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Preferred periodical postage permit number 23830 paid at Hillsboro, Oregon 97123 and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: South Carolina Currents, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Subscription price of $9.89 per year includes postage.
HOW TO CONTACT CURRENTS
Have a problem receiving your edition of South Carolina Currents? Utility members should contact MPD Electric Cooperative. Reprint permission: Direct all requests to Pioneer Utility Resources.
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Table of Contents
Say ‘Yes’ to Shrimp Salad on a Roll
South Carolina shrimp and brioche pair up
Willie Wiredhand is the longtime mascot and spokesplug of electric cooperatives around the United States. He was adopted in 1951 by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Here’s your task: Willie is hidden somewhere in every issue of Currents. See if you can find this friendly face among the news and stories as you read!
for the ultimate seasonal treat Page 36 Page 12
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On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.
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Where Stories Begin
By Jodi Helmer
Colton Cauthen can help you travel to far-off lands, prepare delicious meals, train dogs, learn new languages and ace college entrance exams. The answers are all shelved among the books at Jack’s Books. The Florence bookstore is stocked with a wide selection of new and used tomes, featuring fiction and nonfiction titles in diverse genres, including history and mystery.
Jack’s Books opened in 2024 in downtown Florence. Although the town has a national book retailer and access to online booksellers, Colton thought the town needed an independent bookseller.
“Florence didn’t have a special bookstore,” he says. “When my wife and I traveled to other towns, we always liked to stop in and see what kind of independent bookstores they had. (An independent bookstore) is a unique reflection of the community.”
Although Colton always loved books and reading, he knew
Jack’s Books is writing a new chapter in downtown Florence
nothing about running a bookstore, and he had no experience in retail. He was working for a local engineering consulting firm when he first conceived the idea of starting Jack’s Books.
He didn’t let a lack of experience deter him from pursuing the idea. He turned to other independent booksellers for advice and discovered a community of bibliophiles who shared insights that helped Colton bring his idea to life.
“My initial step was to gauge feasibility,” Colton says. “I looked at similar cities and towns to Florence and couldn’t find any that didn’t have at least one independent bookstore—even when they also had a Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. That gave me pretty good confidence that if those cities could support it, we could also do it in Florence.”
Starting a New Story
Once Colton decided to open an independent bookstore, and he knew just where to find its location—downtown.
“When I first moved to Florence, there was nothing downtown,” he says. “It was just in shambles. A lot of people have come before me and done a lot of work to make it into something special. It’s still on its way to becoming what it will be, and I really wanted to contribute to that. When it came to looking for a location, it was right where I wanted to be.”
With a location on South Dargan Street secured, Colton started thinking about building buzz to get locals excited about having a new, independent bookstore. He launched a social media account, and Jack’s Books quickly developed a following—a few posts about the new bookstore even went viral.
All the posts Colton made on social media during the construction phase were teasers. He never revealed too much about the interior or his plans for the store in the hopes of fueling curiosity.
“It gave us a great opportunity to interact with people and feel out some of their interests, which helped us curate (our stock),” he says. “I tried to be very strategic about giving them a look into the process but also keeping some things secret to build up some anticipation.”
The approach worked.
“People were, throughout the process, so, so excited,” Colton says. “I would hear people around town talking about it, or I’d be ordering food, and someone would stop me and say, ‘You’re the owner of the bookstore that’s coming,’ or they would walk by the store and be really excited, and that was a pretty neat experience.”
However, Colton wanted Jack’s Books to be more than a bookstore—he wanted it to be a destination, and that started with designing a space that felt special.
“I didn’t want it to be a really small version of a big-box store
Customers browse the shelves at Jack’s Books. The newest bookstore in downtown Florence is owned by Colton Cauthen, above with his family.
PHOTOS BY ALICIA STONE PHOTOGRAPHY
with fluorescent lighting and white walls,” he says. “We wanted to create something that just really felt magical.”
The shop has a whimsical book arch made from hardcover books, colorful murals depicting classic books and a movable library ladder to reach the highest shelves. Customers compare Jack’s Books to the library in “Beauty and the Beast” and say the bookshop was reminiscent of Harry Potter or stepping through the wardrobe in “The Chronicles of Narnia.”
For the Love of Local
“The space is just wildly different from anything else, and that’s, I think, another really valuable part of it,” Colton says. “Reading should be a really magical experience and buying books should match that.”
Jack’s Books isn’t just the most beautiful bookstore in Florence; it’s also the perfect spot to shop for books—lots and lots of books.
The bookstore stocks new and used books. Colton scours estate sales and library sales to find used books and works with national book distributors to curate a collection of popular reads. Unlike
national booksellers that have corporate teams making purchasing decisions for stores in all locations from Arizona to Indiana, Colton is tuned into what local customers want to read.
“No one’s telling me, ‘You need to place this table at this angle and here are the seven books you need to stack on it because someone across the country thinks (those books) will do well here,’” he says. “I can be responsive to our community and their interests.”
Colton was also intentional about creating a space for the community. Jack’s Books hosts author events, puzzle competitions, clubs and book donation drives. Colton wants to continue adding to the lineup with children’s reading hours, poetry nights and more.
Jack’s Books is the place people go to discover new authors or reconnect with old favorites. It’s also the place people turn to when they’re unsure where else to go.
On a recent Saturday, a shopper told Colton that the downtown bookseller was her last hope. She was on her way to a funeral for a family member who loved the book “Exodus,” by Leon Uris, and she hoped to find a copy to display at the service. The deceased’s
Jack’s Books customers make their way through the bookstore during a recent event.
copy had been lost and she couldn’t find a copy locally. Colton saved the day.
“As a small independent bookstore, I was worried I would have to turn her away empty-handed,” he says. “As she turned her phone to show me the book they were looking for, I instantly recognized it as a book I had picked up about seven months prior, and to her delight, was able to pull it from our top shelf and give it to them.”
Not all readers go into Jack’s Books in search of a specific title. For undecided shoppers and adventurous readers, the store offers “blind date with a book” options. Colton wraps books in brown paper and offers a few hints about the stories using descriptors like “psychological thriller” and “character-driven love story” or “historical fiction/WWII, female protagonist.” The hope is that shoppers who take a chance on a blind date will fall in love with the book or the author.
The Next Chapter
The past year has not been without its challenges.
“It was quite daunting in the beginning,” Colton says. “There may have been 10,000 decisions, maybe more, that we had to make over the course of the six months (before the store opened), and that was time consuming and sometimes exhausting. Early on, I made a list of all these things that I thought I would need to do in order to open a bookstore, and now, looking back in hindsight, I probably captured about 5% of what actually needed to be done.”
As Colton turns the page on his first year of operating an independent bookstore, he knows the effort was worthwhile. He’s excited to write the next chapters for Jack’s Books and hopes welcoming new customers and expanding the bookstore’s community presence are part of the story.
“Reading is a uniquely valuable activity and to be able to share that and get more people to set aside the digital hypertransactional world that we live in for a few minutes and just sit there with a book … is something that’s helped shape my life, and I wanted to share that with other people,” Colton says. “Reflecting on this past year, it’s really been incredible to see how it has all come together, and I have to thank God for making that possible.”
PHOTOS BY ALICIA STONE PHOTOGRAPHY
Where in the Community?
Every month, MPD Electric Cooperative features a new, recognizable spot from somewhere in the Pee Dee. Check out next month’s page for the answer.
Sompayrac General Store is one of the oldest mercantile buildings left standing outside of the tidewater region in South Carolina. Theodore Sompayrac built this one-story gabled structure in 1815. It served as a family-owned, mom-and-pop store for 169 years. When the store closed its doors in 1984, some convenience items, such as newspapers and bottles, were left on the shelves, as if the store remained frozen in time. In 2013, the store opened for Palmetto Trust’s Historic Preservation to hold a one-day tag sale of old items and collectibles. This historic property is on Main Street in Society Hill, near the Caleb Coker house.
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South Carolina shrimp and brioche pair up for the ultimate seasonal treat Say 'Yes' to Shrimp Salad on a Roll
Story and
photos
by Libby Wiersema
April is finally here with its showers, promises of spring flowers and high hopes for a successful South Carolina shrimp season. At month’s end, the annual Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival will draw well-wishers to Memorial Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant for the official kickoff.
If you have never attended this festival, make plans to be there Sunday, April 27, and do your part to ensure Lowcountry shrimpers get a rousing start. In addition to the boat parade, the festivities are packed with entertainment, arts and crafts, and plenty of fresh, local seafood for your eating pleasure.
As a staunch adherent to the “Just say no to imported shrimp!” sentiment, I understand any blessings bestowed
upon the fleet are passed down to us, the shrimp-loving public. Several times a year, I hit the docks at Shem Creek to snag a haul of fresh-off-the-boat crustaceans. Not only am I supporting these hardworking shrimpers, but I am getting the world’s best shrimp at prices much lower than I would pay for most grocery store varieties.
With my stash dwindling and the season upon us, I am ready to replenish and start preparing all my favorites. April and May at our house means shrimp is on a roll—literally. New England might have a reputation for amazing lobster rolls, but South Carolina can be equally proud of our shrimp rolls. The reason? As previously stated, we have the best shrimp. Period. So, upon this illustrious foundation, let us build a handheld meal that shows off one of our most amazing ocean treasures.
How to Buy Shrimp
If you like shrimp salad, you will love a fresh shrimp roll. But first, you must buy your shrimp, which for some folks can be a bit daunting. Here are some pointers to get you started in the right direction with confidence:
• Shrimp is sold by count per pound. For example, if your purveyor advertises “16/20,” this means there will be approximately 16 to 20 shrimp per pound. The smaller the shrimp, the higher the count per pound.
• While you might see terms like “jumbo,” “extra-large,” “medium” and so forth, understand these designations are subjective. Just eyeball the fresh shrimp and choose the size that looks right for your needs. Note: Bigger shrimp do not necessarily translate to better shrimp. Some
Creamy, light and bright ingredients pair with fresh South Carolina shrimp for the ultimate sandwich.
South Carolina Shrimp Roll
½ cup Duke’s mayonnaise
1 teaspoon horseradish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
Dash hot sauce (Tabasco preferred)
2 celery stalks (preferably from the heart with leaves), finely chopped
2 miniature fresh sweet peppers, seeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Crisp lettuce leaves (romaine or other leaf lettuce)
Six brioche-style hot dog buns
4 tablespoons melted butter
Old Bay and more fresh herbs for garnishing
In a large bowl, stir together mayo, horseradish, lemon juice, Old Bay, salt and hot sauce. Add shrimp, celery, peppers and herbs. Gently mix. Open rolls carefully so they don’t break in half, and brush the insides with melted butter. Arrange on a cookie sheet, and lightly toast beneath the broiler. Note: They can quickly burn, so keep a constant watch. Layer lettuce leaves on open rolls, and spoon shrimp mixture on top. If desired, garnish with Old Bay and fresh herbs. Say a blessing for the fleet and dig in.
of the sweetest, most tender shrimp are on the smaller side.
• Allow roughly about half a pound of shelled shrimp per person. If shrimp are headless with shells intact, allow for threequarters of a pound per person.
• Two pounds of unshelled shrimp yields approximately 1¼ pounds of peeled shrimp.
• One pound of head-on shrimp roughly translates to half a pound of headoff shrimp.
• Shrimp should be firm and smell sweet and mild with just a hint of the sea.
• Shrimp comes in an array of hues— brown, pink and white.
• Always inquire about the source of your shrimp. Eliminate any doubts by buying directly from South Carolina shrimpers.
Shopping for Ingredients
Now that your shrimp IQ is solid, turn your attention to some other things you need for your shrimp roll. For starters, you do not want just any kind of bread boat, so walk away from the regular hot dog buns. Instead, choose a lovely brioche-style— split top, if you can find them. Other musts: crisp, cold leaf lettuce and fresh herbs to brighten the sandwich. You likely have the other ingredients in your pantry and fridge: Duke’s mayonnaise, jarred horseradish, celery and Old Bay Seasoning.
For six shrimp rolls, about 1½ pounds of shrimp will suffice. Using a specialty tool or a simple dinner fork, peel and devein your fresh catch. Gently poach the shrimp in a butter bath of one stick of butter and one quart of water. Make sure the water is simmering, not boiling. When
the shrimp turn pink and are no longer translucent, remove them with a skimmer or slotted spoon, and allow them to cool on a plate. If your shrimp are large, halve them lengthwise or slice them into pieces. Now you are ready to really get rolling on your shrimp rolls. n
For more information on the annual Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival, visit experiencemountpleasant.com/event/ blessing-of-the-fleet-seafood-festival.
Libby Wiersema writes about dining, food trends and the state’s culinary history for Discover South Carolina as well as other print and online media. Contact her at libbyscarolinaspoon@gmail.com or visit the Carolina Spoon Facebook page at facebook.com/SClibby.1111.
Toasted brioche rolls are the perfect “boat” for shrimp salad.
Ever in Awe
Story and photo by Dave LaBelle
As a small child, I was spellbound by giant rainbows stretching across the valley near our home. The magnificent bands of glistening colors felt so close I could almost touch them, bathe in them. Believing there was a pot of gold buried where each end of the rainbow touched the earth, my siblings and I sometimes raced barefoot across the fields hoping to find the treasure before the magical bow disappeared.
I’m not sure at what age I outgrew the legend of hidden treasure. Perhaps it was the same time I began questioning the Easter Bunny?
Sadly, as I grew older and wiser, the awe I once had for those fading, magical colors also disappeared. As a teenager, rainbows no longer held the same allure.
But then, not long after my mother disappeared in floodwaters and our home was washed away by endless days and nights of torrential rains, I was reading in the book of Genesis how God set a bow in the sky after the great flood as a sign the Earth would never again be destroyed by water. As you can imagine, the story stirred my heart, and I have never viewed a rainbow the same since. And soon that mystery—that childhood wonder—even returned.
I believe rainbows will forever capture our imagination.
Whether you believe the Bible story or are simply touched by those colorful, curved ribbons of light stretching across the sky or magically appearing in the mist above a lake or river, there is something beautifully comforting and hopeful about seeing a rainbow appear.
Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
NIKON D810 70mm lens ISO: 125 f/5 at 1/640
Including an interesting foreground creates scale, depth and dimension. A vibrant rainbow can be the star of your photograph or an unexpected accent to complement an already colorful scene, such as pitcher Max Steffens, of Epworth, Iowa, competing in a semipro baseball tournament.
Reader Challenge
Keep your camera close and be ready as storms clear and rains cease. Often after a rainy day, clouds part before a sunset, and a rainbow alone can be a breathtaking sight.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Ah, the eternal dilemma of the eightlegged squatters in your home. To kill or not to kill spiders—that is the question that has plagued humankind since the dawn of shoe-wielding. Let’s explore the great web of reasons why you might want to think twice before squashing those spindly housemates.
Should I Spidersin My House? Kill
First, consider spiders the unsung heroes of the insect world. They’re like nature’s bouncers, ensuring the unruly party of pests in your home gets promptly shut down. Mosquitoes, flies, fleas, ants, earwigs, cockroaches and other annoying critters are like the rowdy guests at the insect soiree, and spiders are the ones showing them the door. Picture a spider in tiny sunglasses, tapping its many legs, saying, “Sorry, folks, the party’s over. Time to buzz off!”
Spiders are basically the Marie Kondo of the arthropod universe. They’re nature’s little tidying specialists, spinning intricate webs that catch and eliminate unwanted guests. Collectively, house spiders eat hundreds of millions of tons of insects each year. Imagine what our homes would be like without these hungry little neat freaks. They weave their way to a cleaner, bug-free home.
Now, let’s talk about spider silk, the original supermaterial. If Spider-Man taught us anything, spiders are basically little textile engineers. Their silk is stronger than steel and more elastic than rubber bands. Instead of squashing spiders, maybe we should be recruiting them for a new line of workout gear. Imagine rocking a spider-silk yoga pants ensemble—now that’s a fashion statement.
consider this: Spiders are introverts; they just want to be left alone. And, they’re more afraid of you than you are of them. Picture a spider in therapy, legs crossed, saying, “I just want to spin my web in peace, but humans keep screaming and reaching for the shoebox.” It’s a tough life being an eight-legged recluse.
I hear you say, “What about the fear factor? Spiders are scary!” Fair point. Yet,
Speaking of shoes, let’s talk about the potential hazards of spider squashing. Have you ever tried to assassinate a spider with a shoe, only to have it scuttle away at the speed of arachnid lightning, leaving you with a fear of your own footwear? It’s like a game of hide-and-seek where the spider always wins. Perhaps the real lesson here is that spiders are the ultimate hide-and-seek champions, and we should respect their game.
Now, I’m not suggesting you turn your home into an arachnid Airbnb. But before you unleash the shoe of doom, consider the quirky contributions of your eightlegged roommates. From pest control and silk production to being the underappreciated introverts of the animal kingdom, spiders bring more to the table than you might think. So, next time you spot one, maybe just give it a nod and a little, “Thanks for keeping the riffraff in check.”
Ed Salley is MPD’s IT guy. Ed not only knows a lot about technology, he knows a lot about everything. Send your question to asked@mpd.coop, and it may be featured in next month’s Ask Ed column.
PAYMENT SMART
MPD Electric Cooperative
Across
Across
1 It might be in a bottle (7)
It might be in a bottle (7)
5 Lunar or laundry sequence (5)
8 Deere product (7)
9 Answer that is incorrect (5)
10 UNC Tar ____ (5)
Lunar or laundry sequence (5)
11 ____ sports, those characterized by high speeds and high risk (7)
12 Pick out, select (6)
Deere product (7)
14 Hanger hangar (6)
17 They’re pinned up, one observes (7)
Answer that is incorrect (5)
19 “The Price is Right” guesses (5)
22 “Eight ____ a milking ...” (5)
23 Mimic, ape (7)
UNC Tar ___ (5)
24 The slenderest parts of Champagne flutes (5)
____ sports, those that are characterized by high speeds and high-risk (7)
25 Where outdoor beds are found (7)
Down
1 Word with box or maker (5)
2 Drink made with protein powder, perhaps (5)
3 Painters, sculptors, etc. (7)
Pick out, select (6)
4 The “E” in ERA (6)
5 Moved stealthily and crawled on all fours (5)
Hanger hangar (6)
6 They’re cut to save money (7)
7 Heartfelt (7)
They're pinned up, one observes (7)
12 Locations for projected productions (7)
13 Silhouette (7)
15 More fortunate perhaps (7)
"The Price is Right" guesses (5)
"Eight ___ a milking..." (5)
Mimic, ape (7)
The slenderest parts of Champagne flutes (5)
Where outdoor beds are found (7)
16 Inquiring; quizzing (6)
18 Medical instances ... of measles (5)
5 Moved stealthily and crawled on all
20 “Aw, what a ____” (5)
Word with box or maker (5)
Drink made with
Lineworkers brave ice, re, oods and storms, Thank you doesn’t quite cover it.
WITH FLAVORFUL SIDES Elevate Easter
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
12 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
8 large hard-boiled eggs
1½ cups mayonnaise
2 tablespoons mustard
3 whole baby dill pickles, chopped, plus 1 tablespoon juice from jar
1½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for water
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika, plus more for garnish
¾ cup chopped red onion
½ cup sliced celery
1 tablespoon thinly sliced scallions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add macaroni, and cook until just al dente according to package instructions, about 7 minutes. Drain. Rinse well under cold water until cool to the touch. Set aside in colander.
Meanwhile, halve eggs lengthwise. Remove yolks from eight of the halved eggs and move them to a large bowl. Roughly chop remaining egg halves and whites. Place in a medium bowl, and set aside.
Add mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, salt, garlic powder and paprika to bowl with the egg yolks. Whisk vigorously until almost smooth.
Add onion, celery, chopped pickles, reserved chopped eggs and macaroni to bowl with mayonnaise mixture. Fold to combine.
Transfer mixture to a large bowl. Top evenly with scallions, and garnish with additional paprika.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY MARYAM
Carrots With Pesto and Ricotta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ pounds carrots, halved lengthwise
½ teaspoon kosher salt
Heat oven to 475 F.
Freshly ground black pepper
Pesto
Whole-milk ricotta cheese
Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet. Add carrots. Season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and a few grinds of pepper. Cook, tossing, until browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the oven.
Roast until charred, 20 to 25 minutes. Top with pesto and ricotta.
Cheesy Perfect Potatoes
4¼ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
2½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
Freshly ground black pepper
½ stick salted butter
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Heat oven to 400 F.
Pinch cayenne pepper
16 ounces extra-sharp cheddar, grated and divided
8 ounces sour cream
3 scallions, thinly sliced, whites and greens separated
2 cups cornflakes
Put the potatoes in a large pot, and add enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Stir in salt, and bring to a boil over high heat. Simmer until you can smash the potatoes with the back of a spoon, 5 to 6 minutes. Drain the potatoes. Add to a large bowl and set aside.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour, and whisk to form a sandy mixture. Let the roux cook, untouched, until it’s slightly toasted and smells a little nutty, 2 to 3 minutes.
Mix the bouillon with 2 cups water in a large liquid measuring cup until dissolved. Add the milk, cayenne, 1½ teaspoons salt and a generous amount of black pepper to the measuring cup. Whisking constantly, slowly pour the milk mixture into the pot with the roux. Whisk until completely smooth. Cook, whisking frequently, until the flour taste has dissipated and the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, 8 to 10 minutes.
Turn the heat to low. Add 2 cups of the cheddar cheese. Cook, whisking constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, and add the sour cream. Whisk until combined. Pour the sauce over the potatoes. Add the scallion whites, and fold the mixture until everything is evenly coated.
Pour the mixture into a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar. Scatter the cornflakes over the top. Bake until the cheese mixture bubbles on the sides, the cornflakes are slightly more golden and the potatoes are soft, 45 to 50 minutes.
Let sit for 10 minutes, then garnish with the scallion greens. Serve warm.
Beet Salad
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon orange marmalade
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
5-ounce package spinach and spring mix blend
1 medium navel orange, segmented
8 ounces cooked baby beets, quartered
4 ounces creamy goat cheese, crumbled
¼ cup chopped roasted salted pistachios
Whisk together vinegar, marmalade, mustard, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Slowly drizzle in olive oil, whisking constantly, until fully incorporated.
Combine greens in a large bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of dressing. Toss to coat.
Arrange salad on four plates. Top with orange segments, beets, goat cheese and pistachios. Serve with remaining dressing on the side.
Creamed Peas With Bacon and Mint
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
12 ounces sugar snap peas, trimmed
½ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
16 ounces frozen green peas, thawed
6 ounces bacon or pancetta
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1¾ cup chicken broth
¼ cup heavy cream
Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
2 to 3 teaspoons minced fresh mint leaves
Heat a large skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter, and swirl to coat.
Add the sugar snap peas, salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sugar snaps are crisptender. Stir in the thawed green peas. Cook while stirring for 1 minute more, until just heated through. Transfer the peas to a bowl, and set aside.
Add the bacon or pancetta to skillet. Cook over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble or dice it. Discard all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease. If there’s not enough bacon grease in the skillet, add olive oil so the total drippings in the pan equals 2 tablespoons. Add flour to the drippings. Whisk continuously for 1 minute. Slowly and gradually stir in the chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Add the heavy cream. Whisk continuously until the sauce is reduced by one-third, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Add the peas to the sauce. Cook, stirring, until heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Transfer peas in cream sauce to a serving bowl or platter. Top with crumbled bacon and mint. Serve immediately.
Introducing
Visit the South’s shining star Greenville
By Judy Garrison
The renaissance of downtown Greenville is the result of decadeslong revitalization pushed by a passionate community. The small city revitalized itself and boldly became the “it” city of the South. With an international food scene, renewal of its landscape and a walkable downtown that beams as brightly during the day as at night, Greenville welcomes the world to experience its homegrown hospitality.
A weekend getaway in Greenville is a superb introduction to the shining star of the South.
Here’s The Room Key
With downtown as the destination, find a spot to park and explore on foot.
Selections for overnight stays are vast in the heart of the city. From luxury to modern to just-enough, downtown hotels provide the key.
Consider The Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, a luxury boutique hotel that overlooks Liberty Bridge on Reedy River Falls. Earth-inspired details provide space for relaxation. The Poseidon Spa provides wind-down experiences after a day of exploration, priming for an evening at the hotel’s art gallery followed by the modern lodge cuisine at Between the Trees. Spirit
and Bower serves coveted bourbons and whiskeys to pair with bites.
A pet-pampering stay at Aloft Greenville Downtown will quickly become a favorite of your four-legged family member. The hotel’s “Arf” program provides a bed, toys and treats to make your pooch feel right at home. The modern design and technology cater to the savvy traveler who requires a business hub as well as a vibrant social scene. A member of the Marriott Bonvoy brand, Aloft checks all the boxes.
Another brand member, The Westin Poinsett turns the calendar back with its 1920s charm and modern amenities.
Another downtown favorite is Embassy Suites, the only hotel with an indoor pool. With views overlooking the river, this is a family favorite.
Strolling Along Main Street
The hub of the city’s activity is a tree-lined Main Street that offers artists’ studios, cafes and one-of-a-kind boutiques. In addition to shops, the downtown area lights up with concerts, festivals and markets enticing locals and visitors to return.
One event is the yearly extravaganza of euphoria, founded by local singersongwriter Edwin McCain as a nonprofit to support local organizations. Each September, this fourday festival showcases the best
local and statewide talent: chefs teaching tricks, sommeliers rating wines, musicians telling stories and more. Tickets go quickly for these coveted events.
Plan months ahead for September, but in the meantime, allow the city to present itself over a weekend getaway. Begin with Main Street Fridays. Bring your tailgating chairs, secure a spot, enjoy the music and support local businesses through food and drink sales. This free event happens March through September.
Fuel up for your downtown ramble with a sugar stop at Mast General Store, where colorful penny-candy barrels line the aisles insisting you fill paper bags with an assortment of treats. On Saturdays in May through October,
8 a.m. until noon, explore the Downtown Market where more than 75 vendors stretch out over two city blocks. Purchase exceptional local fare, including meats, plus wood products and more.
There’s no shortage of coffee houses from which to choose your companion to-go cup. Stop in at Methodical Coffee, a 1920s cocktail lounge vibe that churns out shots of perfection. Spill the Beans offers views of the Falls Park on Reedy and adds ice creams to the menu. Old Europe Desserts might require a longer visit due to its menu catering to the European-style pastry lover and complimented by classic and European coffees. Old World charm fills Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar, an upscale dessert shop serving sandwiches, coffees and cocktails.
Artists Guild Gallery is the oldest co-op in the city, featuring more than 300 works by 18 local artists, while the Children’s Museum of the Upstate, a Smithsonian affiliate, provides entertainment and
Downtown Greenville is one of the premier destinations in the South.
hands-on experiences for the little ones. A seven-minute walk to Greenville Zoo continues the fun. Open daily, the zoo offers special programs throughout the year as flamingos, lions and giraffes stroll their habitats.
Spend time in Falls Park on the Reedy River, one of the most beautiful sights to behold in Greenville. A nationally acclaimed green space with a spectacular bridge that allows unobstructed views of Reedy River Falls, the park is a nature lover’s paradise. Gardens were designed as “garden rooms” displaying seasonal and artistic design.
Spanning the Reedy River, the Liberty Bridge—a 345-foot-long curved bridge held up by a single suspension cable—is the only one of its kind in the United States. Described as “floating on air,” it is the centerpiece of downtown. Below the bridge, Reedy River Falls is where Greenville’s first settler, Richard Pearis, in 1768 established his trading post. Later it became a grist mill that fueled the local industry.
Make your way to the city’s West End and Fluor Field, a mini replica of Boston’s Fenway Park and home to the Greenville Drive, the Single-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. The mascot is the Reedy Rip’It frog. Notable franchise players include Mookie Betts, Clay Buchholz and Tom Glavine. The park is also home ice for the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team.
Enjoy a Taste
No one goes hungry or thirsty while visiting Greenville and the surrounding areas. With something to satisfy everyone, there are more than 20 craft breweries, five wineries with vineyards, three distilleries and more than 1,000 restaurants—some operated by James Beard-nominated chefs. More than 200 restaurants operate in the downtown area.
Nose Dive on Main Street is a popular gastropub for casual, modern food. From a classic burger to a dark chocolate candied bacon brownie, it is always a good choice.
Who doesn’t love a grab-and-go energy bowl or smoothie? With an everchanging catchy juice menu—“I Do Declare,” “Catching Lightinin’ Bugs” and “Southern Summers”—Southern Pressed Juicery pays respect to the South and flavor combinations with the freshest fruits and vegetables.
And when in the South, “put pork on your fork” at Sticky Fingers Rib House Being obsessed with the meat is not a bad thing when hickory
smoked ribs are slathered in Carolina sweet saucy glory. The brisket mac and cheese bowl elevates the brisket to a galactic level. You’re bound to run across one of the three locations of Grill Marks. The gourmet burgers make your jaw drop and your mouth water at the same time. Feeling creative? Build your own. Choose from a selection of seven cheeses or pick from the “extracurricular activities” menu that includes everything from cremini mushrooms to crispy haystack onions. Finish with the Freak Shakes—a menu of out-of-this-world milkshake flavors—or ShakeTails cocktails for the cherry on top of the meal.
LEFT: The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a 28-mile multiuse greenway along the Reedy River. ABOVE: Rooted in history and charm, Soby’s New South Cuisine serves Southern-inspired meals made with locally grown ingredients.
As the sun sets, consider these fine dining tables:
The Modern French bistro Scoundrel makes a romantic evening into a Parisian experience. Enjoy dishes like aged Pekin duck poisson pour deux or a Dirty Rotten Scoundrel burger. Nominated as a 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist Best New Restaurant, it’s dining perfection. Reservations are recommended.
Credited with initiating the culinary revolution in Greenville 25 years ago, Soby’s New South Cuisine satisfies the traditional as well as adventurous taste buds.. Signature dishes include barbecue shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes with jalapeno pimento cheese and crab cakes remoulade. And don’t forget the white chocolate banana cream pie. The restaurant has served more than 93,000 slices in 20
years. An Upstate shining star, Soby’s is a dining must when visiting Greenville. Reservations are recommended.
Get Out of Town
No visit to Greenville is complete without a walk or ride on the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. Named for the former Greenville and Northern Railroad— nicknamed Swamp Rabbit for its
your trail adventure.
While in Travelers Rest, explore the quaint downtown area where smallbusiness owners charm visitors with their craftmanship and vision. There’s always a reason to step inside a bookstore. You might find a first edition in As the Page Turns
Birdie Boutique has everything for the lady while Charlie’s Southern Rustiques preserves history with vintage collectables in an old Sinclair Station. If vintage clothing sparks attention, visit RetroMarketplace and delight in the hunt.
route through the wetlands of the upper Reedy River—the 28.2-mile multiuse trail connects cities in the Upstate South Carolina. It is divided into three segments with the continuous 17.7-mile segment from Greenville to Travelers Rest being one of the most popular. With an asphalt foundation, the accessible trail is designated for biking, skating and walking. Multiple locations rent bikes or e-bikes. If beginning in Greenville, contact Pedego Greenville exclusively for e-bikes. Reedy Rides in the downtown area will deliver bikes to your location. Carolina Triathlon offers cruisers and road bikes. If you’re beginning north in Travelers Rest, visit Sunrift Adventures
The trail begins on Cleveland Street and travels north toward Travelers Rest along the Reedy River, passing Cleveland Park, the zoo and Furman University. Stop by Cancer Survivors Park or other parks for play or restroom breaks. Learn about the railroad’s history at the Swamp Rabbit Station at Berea.
Along the trail, Southernside Brewing Co. serves Southern-inspired food, cocktails and more than 10 beers on tap in a fun atmosphere. It’s the perfect pit stop during
Pink Mama’s Ice Cream will cool you off while the popular Whistle Stop Cafe, the oldest cafe in the Upstate, serves classic American fare.
For a true farm-to-table dining experience, dine at Topsoil Executive Chef Adam Cooke curates a meal celebrating the Upstate farmers while connecting diners to the seasonal ingredients. From Topsoil’s own 16-acre farm, the freshest ingredients make their way to the table, communicating a sense of community and love of the land. He allows vegetables to shine with dishes like crispy Brussels and shitakes and North Carolina amberjack with Bradford Farm zucchini and Topsoil Farm sugar snap peas. Reservations are recommended.
The Swamp Rabbit Trail has received national attention including as one of America’s Best Urban Bike Paths, according to Fodor’s Travel. More than 750,000 locals and visitors ride the trail each year. Plans for growth continue as new line extensions are being constructed and opened.
Back in Greenville, connect through the trail to the city’s newest park, Unity Park. Set on previously segregated land, the park pays remembrance to the area’s past while planning for a more inclusive future. The urban green space includes playgrounds, pedestrian bridges, splash pads, walking trails, a visitor center, a baseball field, basketball courts and ample green space. n
For more information on these venues as well as itineraries for your Greenville getaway, visitvisitgreenvillesc.com.
ABOVE: With three locations, Pink Mama’s scoops up your favorite ice cream flavors. LEFT: Topsoil, located in Travelers Rest, is a farm-to-table restaurant. RIGHT: Find your favorite style of barbecue in Greenville. BELOW: The Greenville Zoo is open daily.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TK PUBLIC RELATIONS
Fun Festivals&
APRIL 10-12
Darlington County Master Gardener Association’s Annual Plant Sale
Plants are available for purchase with Master Gardeners on-site to answer your questions. Bring a wagon. Purchases can be made with cash or check. For more information, visit www.kalmiagardens.org.
KALMIA GARDENS JOSLIN EDUCATION CENTER
1520 W. Carolina Ave., Hartsville
APRIL 12
Sixth Annual Farrah Turner Foundation 5K
Join us in support of sexual assault victims. Proceeds from the 5K go to protect and support victims. To register, visit farrahturnerfoundation.com.
9-11 a.m.
BRIGGS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
1012 Congaree Drive, Florence
APRIL 12
Helicopter Easter Egg Drop
Spring fever is here with an Easter egg drop that includes more than 15,000 eggs, a chance to meet the Easter Bunny, and animals, slides, wagon rides and more. For tickets, visit www.mcarthurfarms.com.
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
MCARTHUR FARMS
1708 SC-38, Bennettsville
APRIL 25MAY 3
ArtFields
MAY 3
Mother and Son Sneaker Ball
APRIL 12
Pollinator Plant Class
Learn what native plants attract pollinators and how to use them to bene t our environment and your garden. For more information, visit www.leecountylibrarysc.org.
2-3 p.m.
LEE COUNTY LIBRARY
200 N. Main St., Bishopville
APRIL 24-27
Pee Dee Plant and Flower Festival
Shop plants, gardening equipment, seasonal produce and food items.
PEE DEE STATE FARMERS MARKET
2513 W. Lucas St., Florence
APRIL 25-MAY 3
ArtFields
Hundreds of works from artists across the Southeast are on display in more than 40 venues, plus live entertainment, specialty events and food trucks. For more information, visit www. art eldssc.org.
100 E. Main St., Lake City
APRIL 25, MAY 30
Florence After 5
Listen to live music while enjoying food and beverages on the last Friday of the month. Music guests include April 25, The Catalinas; May 30, Chocolate Chip and Company Band; June 27, The Main Event Band; July 25, ACE Party Band; Aug. 29, Chris Taylor & the Rumor; and Sept. 26, too MUCH SyLviA.
5:30-8:30 p.m.
DOWNTOWN FLORENCE
100 S. Dargan St., Florence
APRIL 26
Relay for Life of the Pee Dee
Join in the walk or cheer for local survivors. As it gets dark, luminaria bags light up and surround the track for a ceremony. Register at www.relayforlife.org.
1 p.m.
FREEDOM FLORENCE
RECREATION COMPLEX
1515 Freedom Blvd., Florence
MAY 2
First Friday
Enjoy music on the rst Friday. Music guests include May 2, Pepper Creek; June 6, Ace Party Band; and July 11, Main Event Band. Bring chairs and coolers (no glass). Food trucks will be on-site.
6-10 p.m.
DOWNTOWN DILLON
SOUTH PLAZA
101 S. Railroad Ave., Dillon
APRIL 26
Relay for Life of the Pee Dee
APRIL 12
Helicopter Easter Egg Drop events@marlboro.coop
MAY 3
14th Annual CAPES for Kids 5K, 10K and Fun Run
Raise awareness for victims of child abuse. Proceeds support the CARE House of the Pee Dee. Register at www.thecarehouse.com.
7-11 a.m.
BRIGGS ELEMENTARY 1012 Congaree Drive, Florence
MAY 3
Mother and Son Sneaker Ball
We’re calling moms, grandmothers, bonus moms or other relatives for a night out. To register, call 843-423-5410. Admission is $15 per couple, $2 for each extra son; $20 at the door, $2 for each extra son.
5:30-8 p.m.
MARION RECREATION
DEPARTMENT SHANNON
WILKERSON GYM
702 Wilcox Ave., Marion
MAY 9
Mother and Child Dance
This dance is for mothers and their children to have a special night of fun. Admission is $30 for a mother and one child, $10 per additional child. Register at cityofdarlington.recdesk.com.
6-8:30 p.m.
DARLINGTON RECREATION
DEPARTMENT
300 Sanders St., Darlington
DIY Puzzles for Busy Dogs
Keep your best friends occupied and entertained
By Robin Howard
As much as we love our dogs, we can’t be with them all the time. A bored dog can become destructive, restless or barky. One of the best ways to keep your dog entertained, mentally stimulated and happy is to incorporate puzzles into its daily routine.
Muffin Tin Puzzle
Many dog owners swear by the muffin tin puzzle. This simple puzzle encourages your dog to use its nose and paws to figure out how to retrieve treats hidden under small cups.
What You’ll Need:
• Muffin tin (any size, but 12-cup tins work well)
You can buy a variety of challenging dog puzzles from brands such as Outward Hound, BARK and Frisco, or you can create puzzles at home using items around
• Tennis balls, ping-pong balls or plastic cups
• Small dog treats or kibble
Instructions:
• Place a few small dog treats or pieces of kibble in the muffin tin cups. Cover each treat with a tennis ball or plastic cup to block access.
• Show your dog the puzzle and encourage it to uncover the treats by pawing or nudging the balls or cups aside.
Gradually increase the difficulty by hiding more treats or using coverings that are harder to remove.
puzzle taps into the dog’s natural instincts to search and sniff for food.
What You’ll Need:
• Towel or small blanket
• Dog treats or kibble
Instructions:
The muffin tin puzzle is great because it can be customized. Vary difficulty by changing how many treats you hide or how tightly you place plastic cups. Setup and cleaning are easy.
• Lay the towel flat on the floor.
The Towel Roll
• Scatter dog treats along the length of the towel.
Roll up a towel with hidden treats inside for a more challenging physical game. This
• Roll the towel up so that the treats are hidden within the folds.
obscure the treats. It’s an excellent option for dogs who love to dig and search.
Give the towel to your dog and watch it figure out how to unroll it and retrieve the hidden goodies.
• Once the mat is covered with fabric, scatter treats or kibble between the fabric strips.
The “Find the Treat” Game
For a tougher challenge, fold the towel multiple times and put it in a cardboard box or paper grocery bag.
This DIY puzzle is great for dogs who love using their sense of smell to explore.
What You’ll Need:
• Place the snuffle mat on the floor and let your dog sniff around to find the hidden treats.
Plastic Bottle Treat Dispenser
• Dog treats
• Your dog’s favorite toys (optional)
Instructions:
The snuffle mat mimics the experience of foraging in nature, giving your dog a fun and engaging challenge. Plus, it encourages slower feeding.
This DIY puzzle works especially well for dogs that are motivated by food and enjoy figuring out how to access treats.
What You’ll Need:
Cean plastic beverage bottle
Dog treats or kibble
• Start by placing a few dog treats in obvious locations around the house , such as under a couch, behind chairs or under rugs.
Scissors
Instructions:
Remove the cap and any labels from the
• Gradually make the hiding spots more challenging by using harder-to-reach places, like on top of low furniture or behind objects.
• Cut small holes in the bottle, large enough for the treats to fall out one at
Keeping your dog mentally stimulated is just as important as physical exercise. DIY puzzles provide a fun and effective way to challenge your dog’s mind, helping prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. The best part is most of these puzzles are affordable and easy to set up. in bottle. the a time.
• Encourage your dog to search with verbal cues like “Find it!” and guiding it toward the first location.
Fill the bottle with a few of your dog’s favorite treats or kibble. Close the bottle and give it to your dog, which will have to roll, nudge or bat it to release the treats.
As your dog becomes more adept at finding treats, increase the difficulty by hiding them in multiple rooms or more obscure spots.
Snuffle Mat
This puzzle is simple to make, engaging and can keep dogs busy for a long time.
Cardboard Box Challenge
A snuffle mat encourages dogs to use their noses to find food hidden in fabric folds. Although you can buy snuffle mats online, you can easily make one yourself.
What You’ll Need:
Repurpose an empty cardboard box for an exciting mental challenge.
What You’ll Need:
Cardboard box
• Rubber sink mat with holes (available at most dollar stores)
Dog treats or toys
• Paper or packing material (optional)
Instructions:
• Put a few dog treats or favorite toys inside the box.
• Fill the box with crumpled paper to make it more difficult for your dog to find the treats.
• Close the box flaps or fold them over slightly for a more difficult challenge. You can make this puzzle simpler or more complex based on how tightly you pack the box and material you use to
• Fleece fabric cut into strips
Instructions:
• Cut the fleece fabric into long strips.
• Tie the strips of fabric through the holes of the rubber sink mat, leaving the ends loose.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY IRYNA&MAYA
Benefits and Drawbacks of a Farmhouse Sink
Thinking of updating your kitchen and installing a farmhouse sink? You are not alone.
If you watch renovation shows, scroll Pinterest or flip through magazines, chances are you have seen the farmhouse sink trend and wonder if it’s worth the hype. Five years ago, we took the plunge and installed a farmhouse sink during our much-needed kitchen renovation. To help you decide if this is the right option for your home, here are a few benefits and drawbacks we have experienced.
What is a Farmhouse Sink
A farmhouse sink, also known as an apron front sink, is larger and deeper than a typical sink. Characterized by its noticeable front panel that extends further beyond the countertop.
These sinks have been around for centuries. Traditionally used on farms and designed to be used for everything from scrubbing bushels of vegetables to soaking dirty laundry to washing dishes and bathing children.
Because these sinks offer the perfect blend of functionality and timeless style, they continue to be a favored choice in modern kitchens.
Advantages of a Farmhouse Sink Functionality. Designed to be functional, as well as stylish, farmhouse sinks have a deeper and wider basin to hold more dishes—a great asset for homes with bigger families or those who do a lot of entertaining.
As a mom of four who cooks regularly, the extra space has been wonderful. Also, the deepness of the sink helps hide dishes piling up and helps to prevent water from splashing out.
Durability. Farm sinks are typically made from very durable materials, making them resistant to scratches and dents They’re also heat-resistant, so you can put hot pans directly in the sink without causing damage.
We chose a white porcelain sink, that has
held up over the years with heavy use. And while I have seen complaints about keeping a white porcelain sink clean, I have had no issues. In fact, it seems much easier to clean than a traditional sink.
There is also no lip or rim around the edge of the sink to trap food, dirt or mildew like our other sink did.
Style. From a traditional to more modern look, the versatility of a farmhouse style sink can effortlessly match most kitchen aesthetics. They come in a variety of sizes, can be double or single basin, and are offered in a range of different materials and finishes—such as porcelain, enamel, stainless steel, fireclay and copper.
Adds value. Farmhouse sinks help create many homebuyers’ ideas of a dream kitchen, which could be beneficial if you are thinking of selling your home in the future.
What was once a solely practical design has become a highly sought-after kitchen feature. It creates a focal point to bring your kitchen design together and can add dollar value to your home.
Drawbacks of Farmhouse Sinks
Farmhouse sinks can be more expensive. Farmhouse sinks tend to be more expensive than traditional sinks. Depending on which material you choose—copper, marble or options with intrinsic designs—they can be pricey. However, after shopping around, we chose the Havsen sink from Ikea, which was less than $300. It’s a great option for those on a budget.
Additionally, you should factor in the added cost of installation. You will be required to modify your kitchen layout at least a little to accommodate its larger size. This typically means cutting space around the top counters and the cabinet area beneath.
If you are up for the challenge, doing the installation yourself can save you some money. Factor in the time and tools you may need to see if it’s worth doing it yourself or hiring a professional.
We were already replacing the countertops and heavily modifying our
kitchen layout, so it seemed like the perfect opportunity to go for it. However, we did not make a new cabinet door beneath the sink. Instead, I hid the pipes with a kitchen skirt, which was a quick, budget-friendly fix for us.
Caution with delicate dishes. Having a deeper sink is a huge benefit when it comes to washing big pots and pans, but more delicate dishes like glass stemware and china can fall over and become chipped or break. Just remember to set the dishes down carefully in the sink.
In my opinion, a farmhouse sink is worth the time, cost and effort to install. My kitchen just wouldn’t look the same without one, and I am still in love with it all these years later.
Brandi Faulk and her family are excited to share their homesteading journey with MPD Electric members. Their home, built in 1895, is a former railway hotel and farmhouse in Chesterfield County. Search “faulkfamilyfarmhouse” to see more photos of their experiences on Instagram.
Farmhouse sinks offer functionality and timeless style, making them a favored choice in modern kitchens.
PHOTO BY BRANDI FAULK
Woobles Crochet Kit, $30
Learn how to crochet the Wooble way. Woobles’ crochet kits make it super easy and fun to create loveable creatures. Pick from cute rabbits, penguins, chickens, or character collaborations such as Care Bears, Beetlejuice and Harry Potter.
The sets come with all the necessary materials you need: vibrant yarn, a durable crochet hook, eyes, a yarn needle, stuffing and a prestarted yarn piece to give crochet newbies a head start. It even offers step-by-step tutorial videos for beginners to follow along each stage of the learning process.
With more than 1 million kits sold and being featured on shows such as “Shark Tank” and the “Today” show, it’s easy to see why people are getting so hooked on Woobles. Crochet is a versatile hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a great way to relax and unwind while creating a sense of accomplishment with your finished adorable project. Once you master the beginner stage, you will be able to take your newfound crochet skills to the next level with their intermediate kits for more crochet fun.
TheWoobles.com
Heirloom Dress, $96
Dress your little one with a classic heirloom dress from Posh Pickle’s southern style collection.
The Bristol Heirloom dress is expertly crafted with 100% cotton and is fully lined for comfort and durability. Timeless details such as lace trim, ribbon detailing, short bubble puffed sleeves and classic buttons at the back of the neck make for the sweetest look.
These adorable outfits stand the test of time. Meant to be kept as heirloom pieces, if cared for properly they can be passed down to future generations for years to come.
Posh Pickle prides itself on providing families with timeless pieces that will make special occasions and treasured portraits even more memorable. The dress is great for serving as a flower girl, as well as church events such as baptisms and christenings. Shop Posh Pickle for that picture-perfect outfit for little girls, boys and babies.
With many styles and multiple classic pastel colors, this clothing line makes matching siblings attire a breeze. Grab your favorites now, because they sell out fast, or sign up for preorders, check for restocks and new additions before each holiday or season.
poshpickle.com
Sourdough Bread Starter Kit, $64.99
Nothing compares to the fresh taste of a thick, golden loaf made straight from your kitchen. Start baking the best sourdough from home with help from Just Like Joan’s allin-one sourdough kit.
This set includes all the tools you need to make your bread-making experience as easy as possible. Including a durable sourdough starter jar with a thermometer, silicone spatula, banneton bowls, linen liners, bread lame with five replaceable blades, bowl scraper and dough whisk.
The smooth material of the banneton bowls make them easy to keep clean, and washable bread liners also make cleaning simple. You can enjoy even more ideas for artisanal sourdough recipes with the free downloadable e-book recipe guide.
Beyond bread, you can use your sourdough starter for delicious English muffins, pancakes, cinnamon rolls, tortillas and more. This kit ensures a seamless, and enjoyable baking experience, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker.
Just Like Joan offers the perfect gifts for aspiring homemakers from sourdough starter kits and cleaning spray to sustainable decor and more.
justlikejoan.com
Tips to
Reduce Plastic
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. From oceans teeming with plastic debris to microplastics infiltrating the food chain, plastic’s impact on our planet is undeniable. However, simple actions can significantly reduce plastic waste and foster a more sustainable lifestyle.
Choose Reusable Bags
for beverages, are one of the most ubiquitous forms of plastic waste. They take hundreds of years to decompose and contribute significantly to pollution in landfills and oceans. A simple solution is to switch to a reusable water bottle made from stainless steel, glass or other ecofriendly materials.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce plastic use is to ditch single-use plastic bags in favor of reusable alternatives. Every year, billions of plastic bags are used globally, many of which end up in landfills, rivers or oceans. Investing in durable, reusable bags made from cloth, jute or other sustainable materials can significantly reduce one’s plastic footprint.
Tip: Keep a set of compact reusable bags in your car, purse or backpack so you always have them on hand when you go shopping. Some stores even offer incentives for bringing your own bags, so this small change can also save you money.
Buy in Bulk
Tip: Carry a reusable bottle wherever you go and refill it throughout the day. Many public places now offer water refill stations. Some even offer free refills at cafes or restaurants if you bring your own bottle. This reduces plastic waste and saves you money on bottled water.
Reduce Plastic Wrap and Food Packaging
Packaging waste, particularly plastic packaging, significantly contributes to environmental pollution. One simple way to reduce plastic waste is to purchase items in bulk rather than individually packaged quantities. Many grocery stores, health food stores, and farmers markets offer bulk bins for everything from grains and spices to cleaning supplies.
Tip: Switch to bar soap instead of liquid soap in plastic bottles. Look for shampoos and conditioners in bar form, which often come with minimal or no packaging. You can also choose refillable deodorants or razors that last longer and are made from sustainable materials like bamboo or stainless steel.
Avoid Single-Use Plastics at Restaurants
Plastic wrap and food packaging are convenient but wasteful. Most of us are used to wrapping sandwiches, snacks, and leftovers in single-use plastic film or storing food in plastic containers. Instead, make the switch to more sustainable alternatives like beeswax wraps, silicone food bags or glass containers.
Tip: Bring your own containers or reusable jars to fill with bulk items. This reduces plastic packaging and often allows you to buy exactly the amount you need, reducing food waste.
Say No to Single-Use Plastic Bottles
Takeout containers, straws and utensils are another contributor to plastic waste. While it’s not always possible to avoid plastic when eating out, there are ways to minimize your impact. For instance, some restaurants and cafes offer alternatives to single-use plastic straws, such as paper or metal straws. You can also carry your own reusable containers for takeout or use a reusable coffee cup.
Tip: When ordering takeout, ask the
Tip: Invest in reusable silicone bags and beeswax wraps for your kitchen. These items are durable, washable and reusable. For leftovers, opt for glass containers— such as new or vintage refrigerator dishes—with airtight lids instead of disposable plastic containers.
Choose Plastic-Free Personal Care Products
Plastic bottles, particularly those used
Personal care items like toothbrushes, razors, shampoo bottles and cotton swabs often come packaged in or are made of plastic. However, there are many highly adequate plastic-free options available today. Bamboo toothbrushes, bar soap, refillable shampoo dispensers and biodegradable cotton swabs are some products that reduce plastic consumption.
Plastic Use
restaurant to hold the plastic utensils and napkins, as you can use your own reusable alternatives.
there are now a variety of plastic-free alternatives to these products.
Switch to Cloth Towels
The average household uses a lot of paper towels, which are typically made from virgin wood pulp and come wrapped in plastic. By switching to cloth towels or rags for cleaning, you can significantly cut down on paper towel use and the plastic packaging that often accompanies it.
Tip: Look for toothpaste in aluminum tubes, glass jars or toothpaste tablets in eco-friendly packaging.
Buy Secondhand and Recycle
Tip: Keep a stash of washable, reusable cloth napkins, dishcloths, and cleaning towels in your kitchen and bathroom. You can wash and reuse them, reducing the need for paper products. In addition to being eco-friendly, this switch also saves money in the long run.
Switch Your Toothpaste
Unless they’re aluminum, toothpaste tubes aren’t recyclable. Thankfully,
Buying secondhand is a great way to reduce your plastic consumption and your overall environmental impact. Many secondhand items—such as clothing, furniture and electronics—are sold without excessive plastic packaging. Recycling and upcycling materials that you already have can also help reduce the need for new plastic products.
new. You can also repurpose old plastic containers for storage, gardening or organizing.
Every Small Step Counts
Reducing plastic use doesn’t have to mean making drastic changes overnight. Even small steps can add up to a big difference. By making conscious choices in our everyday lives, from switching to reusable bags to choosing plastic-free personal care products, we can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and the environment.
Tip: Visit secondhand stores, thrift shops and online marketplaces to purchase items that you would typically buy
While the plastic pollution crisis is undoubtedly a global challenge, the power to make a difference lies in the actions of individuals, communities and businesses. The next time you reach for a plastic item, ask yourself if there’s a more sustainable alternative. Each small action contributes to a healthier planet—and that’s something worth striving for.
Carter and Holmes Orchids keeps business in bloom
By Cheré Coen
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Paphiopedilum chamberlianum was introduced into cultivation in Britain in the late 1890s.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARTER AND HOLMES
It all began with corsages.
Back in the day when women wore cut flowers as corsages for holidays and other special events, Bill Carter, of Newberry, opened a flower shop to supply customers. He later hired Owen Holmes when Owen returned from the Pacific and World War II. As the years progressed, and corsages fell out of favor, the two men turned to hybridizing orchids for gardeners.
New business flourished from an ad they placed in Southern Living magazine.
“They sold more orchids from that ad— more than they ever thought they would— and that’s how we got into the mail-order business,” says Owen’s son, Mac Holmes, who now runs the company.
For years, Carter and Holmes created giant catalogs mailed to thousands of households. The team included 32 employees working in 18 greenhouses. But the overhead was high.
“The utility bills were killing me,” Mac says. “One February, I spent $20,000 on a gas bill.”
Today, Carter and Holmes Orchids operates eight greenhouses filled with a wide variety of orchids that are shipped to all 50 states. While it once mailed catalogs and sold wholesale to businesses such as Lowe’s, the company now focuses marketing efforts directly to thousands of consumers through its website, newsletters, Ebay and social media.
“It’s a totally different business now,” Mac says, adding that he once spent most of his time at his desk working catalog sales. “Now I’m watering plants and dealing with customers. It’s more hands-on.”
What hasn’t changed is the quality of the plants, which is evident from the company’s shelves lined with the numerous horticultural awards received over the years.
Inside the Greenhouses
company date to the 1880s, one of which flowered in late February.
Carter and Holmes is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
“What we do is old-fashioned hybridizing,” says Bridget Uzar, who works as grower, hybridizer and sometimes tour leader for the company. “We have very rare and very old plants in our collection.”
The greenhouse environments resemble what some might associate more with swamps and wetlands—humid with a slight variety of temperatures, depending on the orchid species. Some greenhouses let in copious light, while others prefer a darker environment or a combination of both.
“Within each greenhouse, there are microelements,” Bridget says. “We keep cooler plants on the side without sun.”
In addition to orchids, Carter and Holmes sells companion tropical plants such as begonias, many varieties of which date back more than 40 years. At least one begonia in the inventory dates to the 1930s.
An Orchid Timeline
The planting and development of an orchid varies but usually requires years to flower. For instance, a Cattleya orchid
Carter and Holmes grows 30,000 naturally occurring species from around the world. Some are rare, some attract moths and pollinators and one, the Lady of the Night, only blooms in the evening. Several orchid varieties produce fragrance. Some orchids have been around for decades. Two Cattleya lueddemanniana belonging to the
Bridget Uzar showcases orchids at many events throughout the year. PHOTO COURTESY OF CARTER AND HOLMES
Cattleya orchids are known as Southern stars. PHOTO BY CHERÉ COEN
takes six months on average to mature once pollinated. It will then spend two years in the company’s laboratory to develop. The Cattleya orchid—which many connect to corsages, since they were used for special events—may take up to eight years to flower from its inception, Bridget explains.
Factors to Growth
Orchids need some adequate form of light, hydration and the right temperatures to thrive, Bridget says.
“With the right light, they will continue to grow and flower,” she says. “In general, in lower light, the plant will grow but not flower.”
Naturally, the plant requires the right amount of water, more in summer than winter. Like most plants, orchids don’t react well to overwatering and underwatering.
Temperatures play a significant role, especially in the blooming cycle.
“Pretty much all orchids want a
“Some orchids have to be 15 years old until they bloom,” she adds. “Some may take five to six years. And there is no expiration date. The orchid will continue to grow and flower every year as long as they get the right environment.”
required to hybridize
and Holmes from
popular gardening trends. That’s fine by Bridget.
“When you’re looking for something that takes a decade to grow, you can’t spend time on trends,” she says. “You find your niche and work within it. We’re not trying to compete with Hawaii and Florida, who dominate the market.”
Carter and Holmes plants seedlings in flats in two growing seasons. The seedlings are usually transplanted when they are large enough to fit into 2- or 3-inch pots and are then available for sale.
Some orchids are hardier than other more delicate varieties, which may appeal to gardeners not as familiar with the plants.
“Some can push the limits,” Bridget says of the sturdier orchids. “Make sure to pick ones to grow in homes.”
Bridget shows off the young orchids in the one of the company’s many greenhouses.
PHOTO BY CHERÉ COEN
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY SAM’’S
day-to-night temperature,” Bridget says. Sometimes, it’s a delicate combination of all three, she adds.
“It can be a combination of water, temperature and light,” she says. “It’s usually a combination of triggers.”
More Orchids Than Hawaii
It may surprise visitors to Carter and Holmes to learn all 50 states have native orchids. There are 55 native and hybrid orchid species found in South Carolina, according to the South Carolina Native Plant Society. They thrive from the coastal region to the mountain woodlands. Many wild orchids are found in the Francis Marion National Forest, for instance.
“There are more orchids native to South Carolina than the state of Hawaii,” Bridget says.
Mac grew up in the ranch house on Mendenhall Road outside Newberry, now the headquarters of Carter and Holmes. He attended Vanderbilt University, then practiced law in Atlanta before he moved back to Newberry to take over the family business. On any given day, he meets visitors from around the world looking for the perfect orchid.
The significance of the business’s legacy is not lost on him. It’s come a long way from corsages.
“They put together every penny they could save up and borrow,” Mac says of the company founders. “This is not a business to make money. But it’s a labor of love.” n
Carter and Holmes has won numerous awards since its inception. PHOTO SBY CHERÉ COEN
This modern moth orchid hybrid is what most people buy when they start growing orchids.
The 2025 South Carolina Orchid Show and Sale is April 25-27 at The Garden Council of Greater Columbia Building in Columbia. For more information, visit https://southcarolinaorchidsociety.org.
The monolena primuliflora is a tropical species Carter and Holmes sells as a companion plant for orchids because they grow in the same conditions.
Innovation is the path to the future. Stauer takes that seriously. That’s why we developed the Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch, an impressive timepiece that’s sure to turn heads. We originally priced the Yellowjacket at $399 based on the market for advanced sports watches … but then stopped ourselves. Since this is no ordinary economy, and everyone else has raised their prices, we decided to start at 90% OFF! This technological marvel can be yours for ONLY $39! Only Stauer can offer you a price this good.
When it comes to purchasing a quality, timeless timepiece, there’s one question every prospective buyer must consider: digital or analog. Both have their advantages. We say, why not have both?
When it comes to purchasing a quality, timeless timepiece, there’s one question every prospective buyer must consider: digital or analog. Both have their advantages. We say, why not have both?
Innovation is the path to the future. Stauer takes that seriously. That’s why we developed the Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch, an impressive timepiece that’s sure to turn heads. We originally priced the Yellowjacket at $399 based on the market for advanced sports watches … but then stopped ourselves. Since this is no ordinary economy, and everyone else has raised their prices, we decided to start at This technological marvel can be yours for ONLY $39! Only Stauer can offer you a price this good.
Our Men’s Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch is a surprising innovation. Its digital readout is powered by a precise quartz engine that combines both analog and digital timekeeping. Outfitted with a stopwatch, alarm, a.m./p.m. settings and day, date and month complications, this timepiece is hard to beat.
Our Men’s Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch is a surprising innovation. Its digital readout is powered by a precise quartz engine that combines both analog and digital timekeeping. Outfitted with a stopwatch, alarm, a.m./p.m. settings and day, date and month complications, this timepiece is hard to beat.
With its large face and handsome, masculine design, this watch is perfect for the back nine and the happy hour afterward. Water-resistant up to 3 ATM, this timepiece won’t wimp out if it has a run-in with a water hazard. And best of all is the color of its case and band: This watch boasts two tones.
With its large face and handsome, masculine design, this watch is perfect for the back nine and the happy hour afterward. Water-resistant up to 3 ATM, this timepiece won’t wimp out if it has a run-in with a water hazard. And best of all is the color of its case and band: This watch boasts two tones.
Lately, two-tone watches have been the toast of the luxury watch world: “Two-tone is the physical embodiment of work-hard, play-hard,” says Hodinkee, a website that chronicles the watch industry. But where luxury brands are charging hundreds simply for their two-tone watch bands, we’re asking JUST $39 for an entire two-tone watch!
Lately, two-tone watches have been the toast of the luxury watch world: “Two-tone is the physical embodiment of work-hard, play-hard,” says Hodinkee, a website that chronicles the watch industry. But where luxury brands are charging hundreds simply for their two-tone watch bands, we’re asking for an entire two-tone watch!
Act now! We only have 1,237 731 available for this ad, and half have already sold! And if this watch doesn’t live up to your expectations for some reason, return it for a refund with no questions asked.
Act now! We only have 1,237 731 available for this ad, and half have already sold! And if this watch doesn’t live up to your expectations for some reason, return it for a refund with no questions asked.
Watch Specifications:
Watch Specifications:
• Precision movement
• Precision movement
• Two-tone stainless steel band
• Two-tone stainless steel band
• Stopwatch, alarm, a.m./p.m. settings and day, date and month complications
• Stopwatch, alarm, a.m./p.m. settings and day, date and month complications
• Water-resistant to 3 ATM
• Water-resistant to 3 ATM
“Love the style and the combo of analog and digital!”
— Rich C., Plainfield, IL
Men’s Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch $399 $39* + S&P Save $360
Men’s Yellowjacket Hybrid Watch
$39* + S&P Save $360
*You must use Insider Offer Code:
*You must use Insider Offer Code: YHW167-01 to get this price.