SC Currents, MPD Electric Cooperative, February 2025
PHOTO COURTESY OF COLLINS GROVE
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Pictured
www.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.
Investing in Our Rural Communities
As an electric cooperative, we are deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Not only do we provide low-cost, reliable power to our members, but we help improve the cities and towns where our members live and work through our financial investments in our seven-county service territory.
Property taxes are one way MPD Electric helps fund public initiatives, such as education and safety, for you and your family. In 2024, MPD Electric paid approximately $4.6 million in property taxes in our service area. This breaks down to about $250,000 to Chesterfield County, $1.3 million to Darlington County, $650,000 to Dillon County, $720,000 to Florence County, $450,000 to Marion County, $1.2 million to Marlboro County and $50,000 to Lee County.
MPD Electric has a long-standing commitment to economic development and bringing growth, new jobs and more tax dollars to these counties. New industries and businesses help keep power costs low for our members by supplementing costs.
Last year, we invested $1 million in Darlington County by buying Darlington County I-20 Industrial Park. In Florence County, we continued work in Commerce City West Industrial Park with the completion of the entrance road into the park, as well as a speculative building.
MPD invested an additional $1.8 million dedicated to economic development across Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro and Lee counties. These funds are used for economic growth in the forms of infrastructure investments, industrial recruitment and property development in these areas.
We all hope to provide the best place for our loved ones to call home, and it brings us joy to invest in our communities for a bright future.
PRESTON GAINEY 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 69) 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.
MANUSCRIPTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS
Please do not send unsolicited materials. If interested in writing for South Carolina Currents, query first. Include a selfaddressed stamped envelope for writers’ guidelines. Address requests and queries to Pioneer Utility Resources.
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
American MainStreet Publications 611 S. Congress Ave. Ste. 504 Austin, TX 78704 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200
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!
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Love Southern Celebrations at Collins Grove
By MPD Staff
is in e air
Graysen and John Saverance married last September at Collins Grove. PHOTO BY KRISTEN HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY
Nestled between a sprawling pecan orchard and vast farmland lies Collins Grove, a picturesque event destination on the northeastern side of Florence County.
Owned and operated by Kendra and Jeremy Collins, Collins Grove serves as a charming, one-of-a-kind wedding location for couples to celebrate one of the most important days of their lives.
For the Collins family, opening a wedding venue close to home was a dream come true after years in the event industry. Kendra first discovered her passion for weddings in college when she began working in a bridal shop.
“I loved working with brides and seeing the joy on their faces when they found the right dress,” she says. “It was so special knowing I was helping them with a significant part of their lives.”
Since 2005, Kendra has served as an events coordinator, planning and executing events of all sizes.
“Watching events come to life is what I cherish most about my job,” she says.
Jeremy opened Party In A Tent, an event rental company, more than a decade ago in Florence. It has grown into a successful business and expanded into multiple locations in four states.
“We manage each event as though it is our special day to shine,” Jeremy says. “Our job is to ease the clients’ stress by providing them with first-class service.”
Throughout the years, Jeremy and Kendra held a long-term vision to open an event venue. With Jeremy’s knowledge of event logistics and Kendra’s experience with event planning, they believed they could best serve the community with an all-encompassing event space. When the
18-acre estate in Florence County became available, the couple knew it was time to make their dream a reality. In 2022, they opened Southern Celebrations at Collins Grove.
The estate features a 5,700-square-foot main house, which holds a bridal suite, family gathering area, scenic veranda and sweeping outdoor staircase. Across from the main house is the gentlemen’s quarters.
Often, brides spending the weekend at Collins Grove spend Friday night in the main house with their bridesmaids, while groomsmen arrive Saturday at the gentlemen’s quarters to begin preparing for the wedding.
The Collins family includes, from left, Hannah, Caroline, Summer, Dylan, Kendra and Jeremy. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COLLINS FAMILY
The estate features a grand 5,700-square-foot main house.
PHOTO BY TAYLOR ROSE REELS
Collins Grove may also host the rehearsal dinner. Couples choose their own wedding vendors, including catering, music and photography, making each wedding as unique as they are.
“All of the weddings held at Collins Grove have been special in their own way,” Kendra says. “I have really enjoyed getting to know the brides, grooms and their families.”
Collins Grove hosted more than 30 events in 2024 and already has as many scheduled for 2025 and 2026. In addition to local couples, Kendra says they are gaining interest as a destination venue from couples throughout South and North Carolina.
Collins Grove not only hosts weddings but also serves as a location for other events, including corporate and nonprofit meetings and galas, as well as holiday parties.
The main house was built in 1997 by Mr. and Mrs. Fred DuBard. Upon buying the house, Jeremy and Kendra made a few minor additions, including adding guest bathrooms to the floor level of the house where a sauna and steam shower once were. They converted the pool house into the gentlemen’s quarters, adding plush furniture, a TV and a poker table.
The land behind the property, owned and farmed by local families, serves as a beautiful backdrop to outdoor festivities.
Graysen and John Saverance married at Collins Grove on Sept. 7, 2024. Both the bride and groom are from the Florence area and wanted a historic-feeling Southern venue close to home.
“As soon as I visited Collins Grove, I knew it was where I wanted my wedding,” Graysen says. “I didn’t need to see anything else.”
The couple booked the location in August 2023 and worked with the Collins family for more than a year to make their vision for the wedding come to life.
“Planning a wedding is stressful enough, but Kendra was so helpful with anything that I needed,” Graysen says. “I knew I could reach out to her anytime I needed a question answered, and she would always go out of her way to get me exactly what I needed.
“I spent my entire wedding weekend at Collins Grove, and they made each event just right, from my bridal brunch Friday morning to the rehearsal dinner Friday night to the wedding on Saturday. Jeremy had the tables, chairs and decorations rearranged for each occasion and its guests.”
There was a 90% chance of rain on the day of the wedding.
“Kendra was very reassuring that everything would still work out and that they would do whatever was needed if the weather turned bad,” Graysen says.
Fortunately, it only drizzled early Saturday morning and didn’t affect any of the wedding.
Graysen had seen an idea for a stage facade in front of a DJ booth that was decorated with flowers, and she mentioned it to Jeremy during the planning process. When she arrived at Collins Grove on Friday morning of her wedding weekend, he surprised her by creating the very same idea.
“I recommend them to everyone,” Graysen says.
The newlyweds live in Greenville, where Graysen is finishing her master’s degree in school counseling, and John works as a financial advisor.
“It is an honor for Jeremy and I that our brides choose Collins Grove as the setting for one of the most important days of their lives,” Kendra says. n
For more information on Collins Grove, visit www.southerncelebrations.com.
The main house veranda overlooks the reception area, which includes open areas and seating under a tent. PHOTOS BY GOLDENBROOK PHOTOGRAPHY AND ANGELA ZION 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.
Originally the home of Zion Methodist Church, this simple meeting house-style building was built in the late 1800s. The church served the outskirts of the Blenheim area until most of the congregation joined churches in larger communities. The building was later used as a country store. Most recently, it housed Riverway Grill, which has closed. The building is on Zion Road, just outside of Bennettsville.
Good Morning, Valentine
Give your sweetie a wake-up call with fresh-from-the-oven coffee cake
Story and photos by Libby Wiersema
Boxes of chocolates and store-bought flowers are fine. But if you are looking to up your Valentine’s Day game, a homemade coffee cake prettily presented with coffee or tea is even finer.
These easy-to-make cakes require few special ingredients, no fancy kitchen tools or heavy investments of time. All you need is a basic understanding of how to use a measuring cup, turn on an oven and follow instructions to create a special treat for your sweetie. If you are the kind who rarely ventures into the kitchen, you are even more likely to make a memorable impression.
With a single dough recipe, you can pull together a coffee cake to suit your preferences. I will guide you in making two
versions: apricot and almond, and cherry and chocolate. Make one or, if you like variety, make two batches and bake both.
If you like a sweet topping for your coffee cake, add streusel before baking. If, like me, you prefer things a little less heavy, opt for a simple drizzle of icing. I will give you pointers for doing both.
You could also use this recipe to create scones rather than coffee cake. If that idea sounds too sophisticated for your baking sensibilities, do not discount it yet. Like coffee cake, a scone is a quick bread that more closely resembles a biscuit. The dough is divided into individual servings before baking. Because scones are more bread-like, they go well with accompaniments like lemon curd, jam or clotted cream.
If you want to use this recipe to make
scones, I find that using a large cookie scoop works well, as the dough is quite sticky. I suggest using a cookie sheet lined with parchment that is lightly coated with cooking spray. Place your scoops about 3 inches apart to allow for spreading. They bake a bit more quickly, so keep a close watch.
While I do like a good scone, it is faster to simply whip up your dough, spread it in a prepared pan, pop it in the oven and cut it into slices after baking.
The flavor is the same whether you choose to make scones or a coffee cake, but the texture is different. The scones are drier because the edges are exposed to the oven’s heat. If you want a less-biscuity, more cakey result, go with the coffee cake. Both go well with coffee or tea.
Now, let us talk about presentation. This
Apricot and almond coffee cake is topped with an egg wash, raw sugar and sliced almonds.
Coffee Cake, Many Ways
Apricot and Almond
2 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoon baking powder
¼ cup white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup butter, cubed
1 cup dried apricots, diced
1 large egg
2⁄3 cup buttermilk (can use whole sweet milk if preferred)
1 teaspoon almond extract
½ cup sliced almonds, to top
Cherry and Chocolate
2 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoon baking powder
¼ cup white sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup butter, cubed
½ cup dried cherries
¼ cup of semisweet, dark chocolate chips (not milk chocolate)
1 large egg
2⁄3 cup buttermilk
Sugary top
1 large egg, beaten
Raw sugar
Streusel topping
¾ cup sugar
¾ cup flour
1 tablespoon water
1½ teaspoons cinnamon
¼ cup butter, softened
Vanilla icing drizzle
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1⁄8 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate icing drizzle
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon powdered cocoa
1 tablespoon milk
is Valentine’s Day—an occasion that calls for taking out your finest dishware. Choose your prettiest plates and teacups for serving. If you do not have things on hand that tickle your fancy, hit up a consignment shop or antique market for affordable finds. You can also buy a package of paper doilies to dress up plates you already have.
Heat oven to 425 F.
Spray a round glass baking dish or metal cake pan with cooking spray. Set aside. Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl. Cut in butter cubes with fingers or a pastry cutter until you have a coarse consistency. Toss in chopped apricots or cherries and chocolate chips, depending on the variety you are making.
In a small bowl, whisk egg with other wet ingredients. Stir into dry ingredients with a wooden spoon until you have a sticky dough. Using a rubber spatula, spread dough into pan.
Brush the top of the raw batter with
Accentuate the romantic aspects of your presentation with any or all of the following: a tea towel, heart-shaped candle, fresh rosebud and a Valentine’s Day card. Have fun putting together this special treat for your sweet, and bask in the knowledge that your efforts are sure to create a lasting memory—possibly more
beaten egg. Sprinkle with raw sugar. For apricot and almond coffee cake, scatter the top with sliced almonds.
If you prefer streusel on either version, mix all ingredients and scatter on top of batter.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the middle is no longer springy and the top is golden brown. Cool in pan for 5 minutes before cutting into wedges and serving.
To make icing, mix together all ingredients. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a few drops of milk. Use a spoon to drizzle each slice once plated.
than that box of store-bought chocolates and flowers. n
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.
Coffee cake slices and tea make a pretty Valentine's Day presentation.
The Power of Contrast
By Dave LaBelle
Without darkness, I would never know light. I have heard variations of this truth since my youth.
Though we often speak about contrast—the degree of difference between the darkest and lightest parts of an image—there is another form of contrast that emphasizes the variances between subjects in a composition. And while, generally, we want a photograph to have good tonal range, compositionally, contrasting subjects can also be important for storytelling impact.
For instance, positioning someone tall next to someone short in the same frame helps show the height differential. The same goes for the contrast of a man dressed in an expensive, tailored suit passing by a man partially clothed in soiled rags, communicating the different place in life each occupies.
Henry Cartier-Bresson’s photographs of children playing in war-torn ruins or children pushing a steel hoop down the street as a hearse passes behind them and Margaret BourkeWhite’s 1937 Great Depression image of hungry people in a breadline as a billboard behind
them shows a smiling family in a nice car are examples of iconic photographs employing the concept of contrast.
Of the tools in a writer’s and photographer’s toolbox, the use of contrast can be a powerful and effective device to quickly communicate ideas and concepts. n
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Reader Challenge
See if you can capture or make a photograph that tells a story by using a contrast of subjects. Consider a still-life composition of objects, such as your child’s baby shoes arranged next to their grown-up shoes. It’s a way of revealing time passed. Or illustrate aging with a photograph of a frisky new puppy crawling over a tired, old dog.
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.
While working on a story about a vaquero who rode bulls, horses and roped until he was 91, I shot this picture of Bob Yanez, 98, with his 4-month-old great-grandson, John, who was visiting from another country. It is a way of showing and connecting the cowboy’s legacy.
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON
Is Listening to My Conversations?
Ah, the question that makes us all glance nervously at our smart speakers: Is Alexa listening to our conversations? Is it like a digital BFF who’s eavesdropping on our deepest secrets while pretending to be an innocent cloud-based voice assistant?
obedient intern who only takes notes when you call their name.
First, let’s debunk the myth that Alexa— or Siri or any other virtual assistant coming from a wireless speaker—is a secret agent planted by the government to gather intel on your questionable taste in music and affinity for dad jokes. While the idea of a digital spy infiltrating our homes is an exciting concept, the reality is less cloakand-dagger and more tech-and-gigabyte.
Alexa is a bit like a highly trained but slightly deaf dog. Its ears might perk up when it hears its name, but it’s not lurking in the corner, pen and paper in hand, ready to jot down your every word. Alexa is designed to listen for specific wake words—usually “Alexa” or whatever you choose—to activate.
Now, here’s where it gets even more amusing, but only if you’re brave: Amazon provides users with the ability to review and delete their voice recordings. Open the Alexa app, choose More, Settings, Alexa Privacy and Review Voice History. You can select an entry, review recordings by a date range, or filter by voice ID or device. If you still feel uneasy about Alexa’s eavesdropping potential, you can mute the microphone or throw a stylish scarf over your Echo device.
Don’t make it too thick, though; Alexa can do cool things like find your phone, play games, ask trivia questions, tell stories, control your smart home devices and track Santa. It can work as a home intercom, sending announcements such as “time for bed” or “dinner is ready” to other devices. You can also ask it to drop in on different devices so you can talk to people in other rooms without yelling or texting. You can even ask it to whisper if you don’t want to make too much noise.
Now, does Alexa occasionally mishear its wake word and start eavesdropping on your heated debate about the best pizza toppings? Possibly. But don’t worry; Alexa isn’t interested in your topping preferences. It’s more concerned with waiting for its cue to jump into action, armed with a repertoire of bizarre facts, weather updates and a catalog of obscure Tudor death metal.
Think of it like this: Alexa is more a quirky sidekick than a devious snoop. So, next time you ask for the news or request a song, rest assured your secret plans for a potato-powered rocket are safe.
Privacy concerns are the real issue here. Sure, the idea of having a device with a microphone permanently in your living room might give you pause, especially if you’re whispering plans for an ingenious mushroomshaped umbrella. Rest assured, Amazon claims Alexa only sends your voice commands to the cloud after hearing the wake word. It’s like having a very
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.
ADOBE
MPD Electric Scholarship Committee presents:
The MPD 2025/26Scholarship
Open to children of current MPD Electric Cooperative members, this scholarship is available to those who plan to, or are currently attending any 2-year or 4-year college as a full-time student. Annual awards available are up to $9,500!
Apply online at www.mpd.coop
The application deadline is Friday, March 28th!
• Selected applicants will be required to provide a final transcript before issuance of scholarship.
• Scholarships will be renewed each semester of attendance, not exceeding the two- or four-year limit, based on cumulative GPA obtained within each year the scholarships have been applied. Payment will be sent to the financial-aid business office of the applicant’s chosen school each qualifying semester and applied to the recipient's school account.
• To renew the scholarship, recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.70 or higher, based on a 4.0 scale.
• Student progress will be reviewed annually following each academic school year. Students who fall below the minimum GPA requirement and full-time status of at least 12 hours each semester will be ineligible to further receive the scholarship.
• Funds are not eligible for Summer School or Graduate School.
Deadline
March 28, 2025
• Students who are eligible for the LIFE or HOPE scholarships, or other academic scholarships, are eligible to receive the scholarship. In such cases, the amount of the MPD Scholarship may be used to supplement the other scholarships received, but the total scholarship package may not exceed the total cost of the college’s tuition and fees.
Current transcript and completed scholarship application
Please submit online at mpd.coop
For questions, call Katie Wilcox at 843-292-4387
Applications will be narrowed down and selected for an interview process in May.
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MPD Electric Cooperative
Across
Across Throw to gently (4)
1 Throw to gently (4)
3 X or Y, in algebra (8)
9 Bring to one’s door as a package (7)
10 Answer that is incorrect (5)
X or Y, in algebra (8)
11 On the regular (5)
12 Involving sight (6)
14 Takes satisfaction in (6)
16 A type of door or dressing (6)
Bring to one's door as a package (7)
19 Vegetables that make people cry (6)
21 ____ therapy: Therapists’ work with several patients at the same time (5)
24 Group that recorded the 2001 album “Drops of Jupiter” (5)
Answer that is incorrect (5)
25 ____ sports, those characterized by high speeds and high risk (7)
26 Loan installments (8)
On the regular (5)
27 Previously owned (4)
Involving sight (6)
Down
1 Frogs to be (8)
Takes satisfaction in (6)
2 Bad break in bowling (5)
4 Get where you’re going (6)
5 Express-lane tally (5)
6 Good deal for a shopper (7)
A type of door or dressing (6)
7 Wearable Disney World souvenirs (4)
8 Fair way to divvy things up (6)
13 Abraham, for one (8)
Vegetables that make people cry (6)
15 Month named after the Roman god of beginnings and endings (7)
17 Legal privileges (6)
18 ____ ratio (measure of screen
____ therapy: When therapist work with several patients at the same time (5)
Group that recorded the 2001 album Drops of Jupiter (5)
____ sports, those that are characterized by high speeds and high risk (7)
Down
17 Legal privileges (6)
Loan installments (8)
"Previously owned" (4)
1 Frogs to be (8) 8 Fair
____ ratio (measure of screen proportions) (6)
Imperial unit of mass; fluid volume in the U.S. (5)
Pizzerias' appliances (5) To halt (4)
Puzzle solution on Page 27.
In Savings Wrapped
By Abby Berry
Ensuring your home is properly insulated can improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable. Insulation acts like a cozy coat that reduces heat loss during winter and a protective layer that reduces heat gain during summer.
Many older homes have less insulation than newer homes, but even newer homes can benefit from additional insulation. While it’s not the least expensive efficiency measure, adding insulation and air sealing your home can provide the biggest bang for your buck in energy savings and overall comfort.
The most common areas to insulate are attics, ceilings, crawlspaces or unconditioned basements, exterior and interior walls, floors, and ductwork located in unconditioned spaces.
The amount and effectiveness rating of insulation required for each area varies by climate, but many places such as the DOE or home improvement stores provide easy-to-follow
recommendations on their website.
It’s important to understand how insulation effectiveness is measured. Insulation is rated in R-value, which measures the material’s resistance to conductive heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulation’s effectiveness. The R-value you’ll need depends on factors such as climate, type of heating and cooling system, and which area of the home you plan to insulate.
Visit energy.gov/insulation to learn about recommended R-values for specific areas of the home, based on climate zones.
Insulation is offered in a wide range of materials from bulky fiberglass rolls to cellulose materials made from recycled paper products. If you’re considering installing additional insulation, talk to an expert who can offer guidance on the right materials for your budget, climate and comfort needs.
Investing in proper insulation for your home not only enhances comfort but also reduces energy consumption.
COLD-CURING SOUPS Feel Better With
Italian Penicillin Soup
1 onion
2 carrots
2 celery sticks
4 garlic cloves
6 cups chicken stock
1 Parmesan rind
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup acini de pepe pasta
Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, drizzle of olive oil, fresh-ground black pepper, fresh-grated Parmesan, ¼ teaspoon turmeric, ¼-inch minced ginger, tempered egg and/or a squeeze of lemon
Roughly chop the onion, carrots, celery and garlic cloves.
Pour the stock into a large pot. Add the chopped vegetables and Parmesan rind. Season well with salt and black pepper. Cover. Simmer for about 20 minutes over medium-high heat.
Using a fork, check if the vegetables are cooked. They should be soft and tender. Remove the rind, then strain out the vegetables using a slotted spoon.
Add the cooked vegetables to a blender with ½ cup of water. Blend until smooth. Pour the blended vegetables back into the pot with the vegetable broth. Stir, then taste for seasoning.
Bring soup back to a boil. Add pasta. Stir every minute or so to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Alternatively, cook pasta separately and add to soup bowl with broth when ready to eat. Top with garnishes of choice before serving.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY FOMAAA
Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup
8 ounces rice noodles
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 zucchini, diced
1 onion, chopped
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
15-ounce can light coconut milk
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons red curry paste
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons fresh basil, julienned
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves
Cook rice noodles according to package directions. Set aside.
In a stockpot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and onion. Cook until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes.
Add chicken broth, coconut milk, fish sauce and curry paste. Simmer until zucchini is soft, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add chicken, lime juice and cooked rice noodles. Simmer until heated through.
Garnish with basil and cilantro before serving.
Avgolemono
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup finely chopped carrots
1 cup finely chopped celery
1 cup finely chopped green onions
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
8 cups chicken stock
2 bay leaves
1 cup rice
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cooked boneless chicken breast pieces, shredded
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 large eggs
Fresh parsley, for garnish
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil on medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery and green onions. Toss together to saute briefly, then stir in the garlic.
Add the chicken stock and bay leaves. Raise the heat to high. Once the liquid has come to a rolling boil, add the rice, salt and pepper. Turn the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender. Stir in the cooked chicken.
Whisk together the lemon juice and eggs in a medium bowl. While whisking, add 2 ladles full of stock from the cooking pot to help temper the eggs. Once fully combined, add the sauce to the chicken soup. Stir. Remove pot from the heat immediately.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Ginger and Turmeric Carrot Soup
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped fennel
1 leek, cleaned and sliced
3 cups chopped carrots
1 cup chopped butternut squash
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cups vegetable broth
14.5-ounce can light coconut milk
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or saucepan. Add the fennel, leek, carrots and squash. Saute for 3 to 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. Add the garlic, ginger, turmeric, salt and pepper. Saute for a few more minutes.
Add the broth and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
Once the soup is cooked, add it to a blender, and blend until creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender.
Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
6-ounce package long grain and wild rice blend, quick-cooking version with seasoning packet
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour
6 cups chicken broth
2 boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and cubed
¾ cup butter
1 cup diced carrot
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced onion
3 cups half-and-half
Open rice. Remove seasoning packet, and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine pepper and flour. Set aside.
In a large pot over medium heat, combine broth and chicken. Bring to a boil, then stir in rice. Cover, and remove from heat.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add carrots, celery and onion. Saute for 5 minutes. Stir in contents of seasoning packet. Continue cooking vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes. Add seasoned flour gradually while constantly stirring to form a roux. Saute roux for 3 to 4 minutes.
Whisk in half-and-half, a little at a time, until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir cream mixture into broth and rice. Cook over medium heat until heated through and rice is done, about 15 to 20 minutes. Do
Celebrating Black Women From South Carolina
South Carolina has long been home to remarkable Black women whose contributions to society have left indelible marks on history. While their resilience, leadership and courage have often gone unsung, their legacies are essential to understanding the broader narrative of American history.
Septima Poinsette Clark: Teacher and Activist
Septima Poinsette Clark, born in Charleston in 1898, was one of the most significant civil rights activists of the 20th century.
A deeply committed educator, Septima spent her life advocating for racial equality through the power of literacy and political engagement.
Known as the “Queen Mother” of the Civil Rights Movement, Septima was instrumental in developing Citizenship Schools where Black Americans learned how to read and write, enabling them to pass literacy tests and register to vote.
Septima’s work was integral to the success of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, where she worked alongside
other civil rights leaders.
Her belief in the power of education as a tool for social change echoed through the years, and her work in the movement—along with her tireless advocacy for Black women’s empowerment—made her one of the most influential Black women in South Carolina history.
Anna DeCosta Banks: Trailblazing Educator and Advocate
Anna DeCosta Banks, born in 1885 in Charleston, was a trailblazer in the fight for Black women’s education and political rights. She graduated from the Dixie Hospital of Nursing and became the first head nurse at the Hospital and Training School for Nurses in Charleston. She then became the superintendent of nurses, a job she held for more than 30 years.
Anna was a visionary. She understood access to health care was key to economic stability, empowerment and quality of life for Black Americans.
She worked tirelessly to advocate for practical training for
African American nurses and ensure Black South Carolina women had the tools to succeed in the classroom and their careers.
Mary McLeod Bethune: Education and Empowerment
Mary McLeod Bethune is among the most influential Black women in American history, and her roots in South Carolina played a significant role in shaping her life’s work.
Born in Mayesville to formerly enslaved parents, Mary’s humble beginnings did not deter her from pursuing higher education.
After attending boarding school and furthering her studies in Chicago, she became a teacher and quickly recognized the transformative power of education for Black youth.
Mary founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Girls in 1904 in Daytona Beach, Florida, which later became Bethune-Cookman University, a respected historically Black university still in operation today. At the time, the institute provided education to young Black women who would otherwise have had limited access to quality learning.
and politics.
Her work was not confined to the classroom. She was an advocate of racial and gender equality, often at significant personal risk.
Mary was a savvy entrepreneur who co-owned a resort in Florida and co-founded the Central Life Insurance Agency of Tampa.
Her influence expanded beyond education. She served as an adviser to U.S. presidents, including major contributions during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency. She also was founder of the National Council of Negro Women. Mary has been commemorated with a statue in Washington, D.C., and a postage stamp.
Mary’s vision of empowerment through education, political activism and social justice continues to inspire generations.
Bernice Robinson: Community Organizing and Civil Rights
Bernice Robinson was born in Charleston in 1914, and her contributions to civil rights and community organizing remain pivotal to the struggle for equality.
As a member of the Progressive Democratic Party, Bernice’s activism helped push for voter rights and other civil rights protections for Black South Carolinians.
Perhaps one of her most notable contributions was her work with the Citizenship Schools, which aimed to provide literacy and civic education to disenfranchised Black people all over the South.
As a member of the Highlander Folk School, Bernice worked alongside Septima Clark and other civil rights leaders to establish a system of grassroots education that empowered Black communities to secure the right to vote.
Outside of her work as a beautician, Bernice taught adult education classes focused on literacy and political engagement and played a crucial role in the desegregation of public facilities in Charleston. The documentary short “They Say I’m Your Teacher” chronicles her work. She died in 1994.
Annie Bell Ranzy Stinson Weston: Education and Advocacy
Annie Bell Ranzy Stinson Weston, born in 1912 in Calhoun County, South Carolina, left a legacy as a trailblazer in education, civil rights
Annie was an influential figure in her community and beyond, known for her dedication to empowering marginalized groups, particularly African Americans and women. As the first woman to earn a doctorate from Benedict College, her work as an educator set a precedent for future scholars, especially women in the South.
Her leadership in the Progressive Democratic Party and her pivotal role in voter registration efforts during the Civil Rights Movement helped lay the foundation for greater political participation among African Americans in South Carolina.
As the first Black woman from South Carolina to attend the Democratic National Convention, Annie broke barriers in the political landscape.
ABOVE: Anna DeCosta Banks was a trailblazing educator and advocate.
TOP: Septima Clark, center, and Bernice Robinson, standing, spend time at a citizenship school where Black Americans learned how to read and write. PHOTOS COURTESY OF WARING HISTORICAL LIBRARY AND CIVILRIGHTSTEACHING.ORG
OPPOSITE: Mary McLeod Bethune was commemorated with a statue in Washington, D.C., and a postage stamp. ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY LAUFER
Her lectures on race and politics and her appointment by President Harry S. Truman to the National Committee for the Midcentury White House Conference on Children and Youth highlight her contributions to national policy and the conversation about race, social justice and youth welfare.
A Legacy of Resistance and Resilience
Black South Carolina women have long been at the forefront of social justice movements, and their contributions continue to inspire. From the resilience of those who fought for the right to vote to the intellectuals who shaped the cultural landscape, Black women in South Carolina have blazed historic trails in our country.
BY
Electrified bikes, buses and trucks are charging up our streets, providing new ways to get around town
By Jennah Denney
PHOTO
ALTEC
Electricity’s role in our lives is changing rapidly. Electric utilities may need to adapt to keep pace.
Electrification of Bus Fleets
strategically placing batteries to improve stability and weight distribution.
Electric bikes, cars, trucks and other vehicles can offer increased efficiency and environmental benefits. They also add to a nationwide increase in demand for electricity, and can require new and improved infrastructure, presenting both opportunities and challenges for electric utilities.
Schools and communities are gradually electrifying their bus fleets, which requires ample charging infrastructure—including fast-charging stations—to ensure smooth operations.
Today, electric buses feature improved acceleration and regenerative braking systems. Other benefits of electric buses include lower greenhouse emissions and reduced maintenance and operating costs due to fewer moving parts.
There are challenges to adopting electric buses in rural locations. The absence of charging infrastructure can make setting up the required facilities costly and challenging. Additionally, the initial cost of electric buses is usually higher than that of diesel models.
outfitting their bikes with smart features like GPS navigation and anti-theft systems.
E-bikes have pedal assist and other similar features that make them far easier to ride than traditional bikes. They can be a great choice for quickly getting to a few nearby spots, such as the grocery store.
For some people, e-bikes can replace cars as the vehicle of choice for short trips. Bikes are also far less expensive than cars, which is another incentive to switch.
To address these issues, extensive route assessments are required to optimize bus schedules and charging times.
Electric Bikes in Rural Areas
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular, not only in cities but also in rural communities. Battery technology is improving with longer range and faster charging times. Many e-bike brands are
A key limitation to e-bikes is safety. Bikes are less safe without dedicated bike lanes, and not everywhere has secure places to park bikes.
Benefits of electric bucket trucks include:
• Reduced fuel and maintenance costs.
• Quieter operation.
• Lower environmental impact compared to traditional models.
The emergence of advanced battery technologies will likely lead to even more efficient electric bucket trucks, with longer operational ranges and faster charging capabilities, further enhancing their viability for electric utility operations.
Electrification in Utility Operations
Every utility uses bucket trucks. Soon, that staple vehicles for maintenance and construction may be electric.
Electric bucket trucks can significantly reduce operating costs by eliminating fuel expenses. They are quieter and require less maintenance.
The electrification of bikes, buses and bucket trucks marks a significant step toward a more choice-driven transportation future. While there are obstacles to overcome, electric utilities are well-positioned to address these challenges through community involvement, strategic planning and infrastructure investment that can lead to effective implementation.
Electric Air Taxis: Cleared for Takeoff
To enhance the performance of electric bucket trucks, manufacturers are concentrating on lightweight materials and cutting-edge engineering. This includes
Electric vehicles are already traveling the roads in our communities. Soon, electric air taxis may be taking to the skies as well.
In October, the Federal Aviation Administration issued rules for the qualifications and trainings that instructors and pilots need to fly poweredlift aircraft. Powered-lift vehicles—capable of vertical takeoff, vertical landing and low speed flight—are the first category of aircraft the FAA has added since helicopters in the 1940s.
BELOW: E-bikes encourage physical exercise while making it easy to go longer distances.
OPPOSITE PAGE: In electric bucket trucks, manufacturers are concentrating on lightweight materials and cutting-edge engineering.
ADOBE STOCK GRAPHIC BY YLIVDESIGN
Fun Festivals&
FEB. 15-16
The American Heritage Festival
Load up the family in the car and come enjoy a day of historical reenactments and Scotch-Irish games. For more information, visit theamericanheritagefestival. com.
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday GRAHAM’S HISTORIC FARM
840 State Road S-21-85, Lake City
FEB. 21
Edwin McCain
With 30 years of hits and touring, South Carolina’s Edwin McCain will bring his musical talent to Florence.
For more information, visit fmupac.org.
7:30-9 p.m.
FMU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
201 S. Dargan St., Florence
FEB. 22
Florence Flamingos Chili & Car Show O
Gear up for an unforgettable day of chili and cars. Whether you’re into sleek sports cars, jaw-dropping builds or classic beauties, this Klean Exhibition Car Show has something for everyone.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
CAROLINA BANK FIELD
1200 Jennie O’Bryan Ave., Florence
MARCH 1
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
FEB. 28
Downtown
Chocolate Crawl
Downtown’s sweetest night ever returns to the historic district for decadent chocolate treats in our shops and restaurants. Check-in opens at 5:15 p.m.
For more information, visit orencedowntown.com.
5:30-7:30 p.m.
GREATER FLORENCE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
100 W. Evans St., Florence
MARCH 1
Spring Evening Wine Walk
Behold the beauty of Moore Farms Botanical Garden while promenading through lush landscapes with a wine glass in hand, during this signature event. For more information, visit moorefarmsbg.org.
3-5 p.m.
MOORE FARMS BOTANICAL GARDEN
100 New Zion Road, Lake City
MARCH 1
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
One of the most accomplished bands in American roots music, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band will hit the stage at Francis Marion University. For more information, visit fmupac.org.
7:30-9 p.m.
FMU PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
201 S. Dargan St., Florence
MARCH 4
FMU Concert Band Fall Concert
The Francis Marion University Concert Band is performing its fall concert. Performances include traditional concert band music as well as popular and show music. For more information, visit fmupac.org.
7:30-9 p.m.
FMU PERFORMING
ARTS CENTER
201 S. Dargan St., Florence
MARCH 6-9
The Addams Family
The Lake City Community Theatre presents this comedic performance of a family favorite. Have a family night out at the theatre with this classic. For more information, visit lakecitycommunitytheatre.org. Performance times vary.
BLANDING STREET
AUDITORIUM
125 S. Blanding St., Lake City
FEB. 28 Downtown Chocolate Crawl
FEB. 22 Florence Flamingos Chili & Car Show O events@marlboro.coop
MARCH 7-15
Be My Baby
An irascible Scotsman and an uptight English woman are thrown together on the journey of a lifetime. For more information, visit orencelittletheatre.org.
FLORENCE LITTLE
THEATRE
417 S. Dargan St., Florence
MARCH 8
Cheraw Rec DaddyDaughter Date Night
For girls ages 4-18 and their dads or positive male gures. Purchase tickets at Cheraw Community Center.
6-8 p.m.
CHERAW
COMMUNITY CENTER
200 Powe St., Cheraw
MARCH 9
Folk Songs from Around the World
This concert highlights folk songs from around the world and features the Masterworks Choir and the Masterworks Children’s Choir.
4-5:15 p.m.
CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
167 S. Irby St., Florence
The Amazing
Dr. Matilda Evans is remarkable for what she accomplished in her life and the circumstances she overcame on the way. Matilda, born in 1872—just seven years after slavery was abolished and at the dawn of the Jim Crow South— became the first Black woman licensed to practice medicine in South Carolina.
In addition to her practice, she founded hospitals, clinics and recreational and health advocacy programs; wrote a book; and left a legacy of health care advocacy that remains to this day.
Evans was born in Aiken, South Carolina, the eldest of three children to Anderson and Harriet Evans. Her parents worked as sharecroppers, a labor system in which laborers farmed a piece of land and paid the landowner a share of the harvest at the end of the year.
Theoretically, sharecropping could benefit both parties, but the arrangements usually favored the landowner and left the laborers in extreme poverty.
Harriet died when Matilda was just 8 years old, leaving her daughter $160 (the equivalent of nearly $5,000 today) so she could continue her education. Black sharecroppers earned around $200 a year, so saving would have taken serious commitment.
In 1893, Matilda Evans enrolled in The Woman’s Medical College in Philadelphia. After earning her medical degree, she started a practice in Columbia. PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS
OPPOSITE BOTTOM: Matilda operates on a patient in Taylor Lane Hospital.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF U.S. NATIONAL LIBRARY OF MEDICINE
At 13, Matilda was admitted to the nearby Schofield Normal and Industrial School, an institution that trains teachers. Founded by abolitionist Martha Schofield, the school trained Black students who went on to teach in other schools around the state. It also served as a high school during segregation.
Dr. MATILDA
Matilda was first in her class and impressed her mentor with her dedication and intellect. Martha encouraged her to pursue medicine and helped her get a scholarship to attend Oberlin College in Ohio.
Matilda studied there from 1887-91, then accepted an offer to teach at the Haines Institute in Augusta, Georgia. The following year, she returned to the Schofield School and worked as a teacher to save money for medical school.
In 1893, Matilda enrolled in The Woman’s Medical College in Philadelphia, where she was the only Black student in her class. Five years later, she earned her medical degree and returned to South Carolina to start a practice in Columbia.
EVANS
Essential to Matilda’s story is the social and political environment in which she began her life as a physician. During the 1870s, African Americans could finally make economic and political gains, including holding local and national offices and establishing public schools and colleges.
However, after 1877, things went from bad to worse. What followed was an intense period of racial violence and deliberate oppression, including new state laws that prevented many African Americans from voting.
The Jim Crow laws and the way of life that came with them were engineered to remind people of their differences and keep them from realizing shared humanity. This kept them from achieving a sense of community that is vital to a peaceful, equitable and functional society.
The work that the newly minted doctor was about to do not only took place despite these extreme conditions, it defied the very foundations of Jim Crow by building community and reaching across perceived boundaries.
When Matilda opened her practice, she could not admit or treat patients in any hospital. In fact, African Americans made up 40% of the population but had no access to a hospital.
Matilda found that many in her community were dying of tuberculosis, and there was a high rate of infant mortality, so she started a hospital in her home. She later expanded it to include a nursing school.
In 1901, she opened the Taylor Lane Hospital and Training School for Nurses, followed by the St. Luke’s Hospital and Training School for Nurses, both serving the Black community.
Matilda was a physician, but she was also an advocate for improved education and health care, starting with children. Through the school system, she began a survey of Black children’s health, which showed many students had undiagnosed and untreated diseases. These exams would become a permanent part of the health care program in Columbia’s public schools.
experience and Black male interns from Harvard.
Though she was criticized for treating and teaching white people, Matilda became known as a thought leader who could persuade people of all backgrounds to work toward a common goal.
She also ran a 22-acre farm, raised 11 children that were not hers, fostered 22 children, founded a newspaper— the Negro Health Journal of South Carolina—and created a recreational program for underprivileged boys.
She became president of the Palmetto State Medical Society and vice president of the National Medical Association, and she was appointed to the Volunteer Medical Service Corps during the war.
In 1931, she founded Columbia’s first free clinic for Black children and then the Negro Health Association of South Carolina to help Black families navigate health care procedures.
Her reputation preceded her, and throughout her career, she was sought after by white people, even from neighboring states. She was especially sought out by white women who wanted a female doctor they could trust with delicate health matters.
She taught white men seeking medical
She wrote a book about her mentor, created the South Carolina Good Health Association to help educate people about hygiene and nutrition, and established a free clinic named the Evans Clinic Association of Columbia.
At just 61, she died suddenly of a stroke on Nov. 17, 1935. Her legacy lives on through the millions of lives she saved through advocacy.
Matilda worked tirelessly to bridge racial gaps through better health care, education and funding for African Americans. She is buried beneath a simple headstone in Palmetto Cemetery, and a historical marker is near her former home in Columbia at 2027
Taylor St.
&
Drying Preserving Flowers
Valentine’s Day has arrived, and an always popular gift is a bouquet of flowers. However, what can you do with them when the holiday is over, and the blooms begin to wilt?
If you’re not quite ready to toss your bouquet in the trash, here are a few ways to preserve and repurpose your flowers.
How to Preserve Flowers
Drying flowers is easier than you may think. You can preserve them as is or press them flat. There are a few methods to choose from, depending on which works best for your individual project.
• Air drying flowers is one of the easiest ways. This method is best for retaining the shape of your flowers and works well on larger flowers with more petal layers, such as roses or carnations.
To air dry, you need string, yarn or wire.
First, remove excess leaves from the stems. Then wrap the ends of the stems with your chosen strand. You can bundle a group of stems together but avoid crowding to ensure even drying.
Next, hang the flowers upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area for two to three weeks.
Once dried, you can take them down and help protect them further by spritzing them with hairspray.
• This might sound a bit odd, but microwaving flowers is the fastest way to preserve blooms as it helps to remove moisture quickly. It is also the best method for preserving bold colors. Some
flowers that work well with this method are zinnias, peonies, dahlias and pansies.
You need a large, microwave-safe bowl and silica sand, which can be found in hardware stores. Silica sand is also sold as play sand or pool filter sand at Walmart and Target.
First, trim the stems to fit in the bowl, removing leaves. Place about an inch of silica sand in the bowl and lay the flower on top, covering it with more sand.
Microwave the flowers in 30-second increments until dry. Smaller flowers should take about one to two minutes, while larger flowers could take up to three or four minutes. Feel free to leave the flowers in the sand for an additional 12 hours to ensure they are completely dry.
• Pressing flowers is the most traditional method of preservation. It creates flat, versatile flowers that are great for art displays and making resin jewelry.
The best flowers for pressing are thin varieties or those with a single layer of petals, such as Queen Anne’s lace, cosmos, poppies and marigolds.
To start, arrange your flowers between the pages of a heavy book, placing parchment paper between the flower and the page, and close it. Stack something heavy on top, if necessary, to keep it pressed tightly. Leave the flowers to dry between the pages for at least a week.
Ideas for Dried Flowers
Now that you know a few ways to preserve your favorite blooms, you may
be wondering what to do with them. You could display them in a vase, create a wreath, make DIY potpourri with essential oils, make your own bath products, frame them as wall art, or use them as gift toppers or eco-friendly flower confetti.
These are just a few ideas that will help you enjoy your bouquet long after the flowers have died.
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.
There are many ways to enjoy your flowers long after they’ve died, including making potpourri and pressing them for wall art.
BY BRANDI FAULK
PHOTOS
Moscato Bath Soak $9
Immerse yourself in the soothing aroma of fine wine as you unwind in a warm bath. Let Lux Lab help take your bathing routine to the next level.
Crafted with care, these bath salts are infused with moisturizing oils and a rich moscato fragrance for a spa-like experience. Allow the soothing perfume to whisk you away to a vineyard in the comfort of your own bathroom and escape the stress of everyday life.
Not only do these bath soaks provide a sweet scent, but they also offer numerous benefits for your skin. The mineralrich salts work to exfoliate and cleanse, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth and rejuvenated.
Additional scents include wild rose, birthday cake, pink grapefruit and lavender mint.
Each batch is hand measured, mixed and packed into a 6-ounce resealable bag that conveniently ensures the salts stay fresh and ready for later use. Even better is that each package includes a cute little surprise at the end. Think fortune cookie,
but instead of predicting your future, you get a positive affirmation that will lift your mood.
Get ready to soak up all the good vibes,
and grab a bag or two for the next relaxing night in.
luxlabofbeauty.com
6-Piece Bonbon Gift Box, $19
Celebrate this season of love with the gift of delicious chocolates from Marble and Steel Craft Chocolates.
Each gourmet chocolate is airbrushed by hand and filled with dream-worthy flavors. All bonbons and chocolate confections are crafted in small batches using fresh ingredients, including the finest white, milk and dark chocolates.
The classic assortment box can include any variety of flavors: salted caramel, berry panna cotta, almond crunch, raspberry, party cake, morning coffee, pecan turtle, pistachio cherry, orange passion and more.
To create your own assortment, list
your chosen flavors in the special request box. You can also add a special message to personalize your gift even more— perfect for custom orders.
These artistically inspired chocolates can be designed to match wedding color palettes or themes to create an elegant display on the dessert table or as favors for guests. These candies can be customized for any event any time of the year—showers, birthdays or corporate gifts.
Check out the online boutique for the finest chocolate experience.
marbleandsteelcraftchocolates.com
Porcelain Bouquet Vase, $140
Upgrade from a standard vase this Valentine’s Day to a handcrafted work of art.
The porcelain bouquet vase from The Bright Angle can transform any floral arrangement into a show-stopping focal piece that breathes life into any space. Its polished finish and modern geometric design are sure to add a touch of sophistication to your aesthetic. Whether placed on a bookshelf, dining room table or as a centerpiece in an entryway, this heirloom-quality vase is guaranteed to make an elegant statement that will impress your guests.
Expertly crafted, it’s made from high-quality ceramic that surpasses terra cotta and stoneware clay pottery in durability. Its robust construction ensures it stands the test of time and remains a beautiful focal point for displaying
flowers for years to come.
Choose from one of six signature colors—silk white, mica black, smoke grey, rosemary green, Pisgah blue, night snow and terracotta red—to match your home’s decor and style. Each piece is hand-dipped in a beautiful satin matte glaze that is 100% lead-free, food safe and dishwasher safe.
Stylish and functional, The Bright Angle aims to create everyday household items—such as kitchenware and luxury lighting fixtures—into ceramic art for your home. Items are sustainably made by hand with the utmost precision by a carefully selected team of artists in its Asheville, North Carolina-based studio.
thebrightangle.com
Detours at
Inspire
Be in Bluffton
By Judy Garrison
Detours, especially during travel, are always delightful and, quite often, more thrilling than the terminus. Bluffton, South Carolina, located between the famed tourist destinations of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, can be easy to overlook.
This self-proclaimed quirky town shines with diverse flavors of art, food and experiences worthy of return visits. Sitting handsomely along the May River, Old Town Bluffton is decorated with palmetto trees, live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and historic homes.
“It can’t get much prettier,” says Larry Toomer of Bluffton Oyster Co., whose fishing enterprise has been an area staple for more than 35 years.
His wife, Tina, agrees.
“It’s a small town that has grown very big in a short time, but it has kept its charm, for sure,” she says. “It has lots of open space and beautiful parks, great people and a lot of local businesses.”
The business operators who have invested their resources and passion in Bluffton have defined this community for decades. The people behind the brick-and-mortar shops share the depths of their love for this coastal city and invite the world to experience Bluffton.
Tasting Bluffton
Choose Bluffton when you’re looking for a genuine taste of the Lowcountry.
Start at FARM. Chef Brandon Carter puts dinner on the table with the resources at his back door. Relationships with local farmers, anglers and artisans help with sourcing seasonal ingredients. As the chef’s menu changes, he seeks to connect diners to local fare while making everyone who walks through his doors feel like family.
Bluffton Oyster Co. unloads the fresh catch of the day.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTH CAROLINA TOURISM
A meal may include a starter of Roasted High Tides Oysters followed by main dishes like pork schnitzel. Dessert of a S’mores Hand Pie wraps the dining experience up in a bow. Sunday brunch offers expected items like fried eggs and ham biscuits, but the chef’s globally inspired dishes—melded with regional flavors—deliver the satisfaction visitors crave.
While in Old Town, visit The Cottage Café Bakery and Tea Room for sophisticated cuisine with a Lowcountry flair. Located in a restored 1868 cottage, the business caters to those who are up-and-at‘em early in the morning with a multitude of baked goods. Stop in for lunch and enjoy Getting’ Gritty—shrimp and grits in the most unusual way. Sunday brunch adds Signature Sips to the Benedicts.
Nectar Farm Kitchen delivers the bounty of the community. In a farmhouse atmosphere, it dishes out Southern charm with its ever-changing menu of seasonal produce from the fields, farms and forests. Its two locations, Hilton Head and Bluffton, serve locally sourced, original and handcrafted, feel-good food.
If you’re a seafood lover—especially an oyster lover—dine at Bluffton Oyster Company Restaurant, where the thirdgeneration Toomer family features what they catch.
Get an up-close look at “Bluffton Oyster,” as the locals say, at their second location docks where boats unload the catch of the
day. Most locals will tell you the May River oysters are the best in the world. Whatever season takes you to Bluffton, go home with the day’s fresh catch.
Experiencing Bluffton
Get a survey of the community with a first stop at the Cole-Heyward House, an antebellum house that doubles as the city’s welcome center and museum. Arrange tours and pick up information about activities.
Three blocks away stands The Church of the Cross, an 1857 Anglican church that survived Civil War battles and the burning of Bluffton. The Gothic structure continues to welcome visitors on its property along the May River.
The center of Old Town is Calhoun Street and is regarded as The Arts District. Galleries, shops and pop-ups showcase the work of local artists. Find the ideal souvenir there. While walking downtown, stop in at Corner Perk Brunch Café for a cup of Joe to fuel the day of shopping.
May River Excursions puts you on the river and surrounding waterways. With fishing charters, dolphin adventures and sunset sails, the tours provide an array of experiences on the water. The company also provides water taxis to Daufuskie Island and Palmetto Bluff.
Staying in Bluffton
If you like to be in the middle of happenings, choose Old Town Bluffton
Inn. The inn puts visitors within walking distance of just about everything you’d need in downtown Bluffton. Owners Vince and Danielle Harrison fell in love with the area and moved there for the slower pace. Their French heritage mixes with Southern charm in the space.
Luxury calls at Montage Palmetto Bluff. Located on the May River, it’s about a 20-minute ride from downtown. The hideaway caters to every need while centering self-care on your vacation. From Lowcountry-inspired restaurants to spa treatments inspired by nature—plus experiences on water and land—relax and enjoy these elevated offerings.
The downtown area morphs into a farmers market during harvest season.
It’s a short trip to most places from the small town of Bluffton.
Wine Whirlwind Weekend
By Judy Garrison
Whether for a special occasion or simply to escape the routine of daily demands, now is the time to get away—close to home. From the mountains of the Upcountry and Midlands to the salty waters of the Atlantic, intimate overnight accommodations and wine experiences are just a short drive away. Consider these destinations for a delightful wine weekend for two.
Nestle Within the Carolina Upcountry
Check into a European-inspired world at Hotel Domestique, a boutique hotel that fuses Old-World charm with modern
Winter weekends are ideal for slowing down—sit by a roaring fireplace, sip a glass of wine and enjoy good company
amenities. Inspired by the world travels of owner George Hincapie, the hotel offers refined experiences in hospitality and cuisine. A glass of sparkling wine greets you upon check-in, setting the stage for an enchanting weekend.
Thirteen rooms and suites, all luxuriously appointed, provide a relaxing respite. Grab a snack from two guest pantries and then unwind or ramp up in the wellness room, complete with an infrared sauna, or enjoy the hot tub or saltwater pool, open during the warmer months. Many add-ons are available, so visit the website prior to arrival to customize the experience.
Located onsite, Restaurant 17 feels like a European bistro. Dine on specialties that unite Italian and Mediterranean classics while highlighting the freshest local ingredients. The bucatini pasta is a sure winner, featuring Carolina burrata, a cheese made from fresh mozzarella and cream. Enjoy Italian, French and Spanish wines by the glass. Ask your server for the perfect pairing. Signature cocktails as well as Carolina craft beers are available.
Hotel Domestique and Restaurant 17, 10 Road of Vines, Travelers Rest, S.C. Visit hoteldomestique.com and restaurant17.com.
Wineries in the Upcountry
Two wineries flavor the Upcountry with European influences. Welcome to Victoria Valley Vineyards in Cleveland, South Carolina, a 20-minute drive from Hotel Domestique. The winery, styled after a French chateau, is situated on a 47-acre estate producing vinifera wines. Enjoy a tasting or a tour of the winery. A full lunch, as well as small plates and cheese boards, is available on the terrace, offering a view of the vines and mountains. Victoria Valley wines are handcrafted from a mixture of grapes
from Washington and California, carefully blended to produce the desired taste. Choose a red or white that is sure to excite your palate.
Victora Valley Vineyards, 1360 S. Saluda Road, Cleveland, S.C. Visit victoriavalleyvineyards.com.
Along the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway in Travelers Rest, sip world-class wines at Eagle Mountain Winery with stunning mountain views. Growing cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc grapes on the land in South Carolina, winemaker George Bursick also sources grapes from California vineyards to produce a complementary and consistent blend.
Enjoy a tasting for two, stroll into the barrel room, or even take a wine-blending class. Don’t miss the outdoor sculpture park highlighting Southern artists. Upcoming food and wine pairing events are listed on the website. If you fall in love with the wine, join the wine club and enjoy these wines at home. A new bistro is opening in summer 2025 to complete the experience.
Check into the Carolina Midlands For a charming getaway in the city, check into Chesnut Cottage Bed and Breakfast in Columbia. Located in the downtown historic district, this family-run inn is wonderfully situated for exploring this vibrant college town. This 19th-century cottage offers six rooms, from a queen suite to a carriage house, that feel like your home away from home.
Begin each day with a handcrafted breakfast in the dining room that will fuel you for the day of exploring the city or enjoying the wineries. Menus change based on seasonal ingredients.
Chesnut Cottage Bed and Breakfast, 1718 Hampton St., Columbia, S.C. Visit chesnutcottage.com.
Wineries in the Midlands
With the Midlands covering the central portion of the state, most wineries are at least a 20-minute drive from downtown Columbia. So, grab a map—or set the GPS—to plan your outing.
Begin your experience at Enoree River Vineyards and Winery in Newberry, 30 minutes northwest of the city. With all wines produced on-site, owners Richard and Laura LaBarre grow a variety
of red and white grapes and import juice from Washington and Italy to make their personalized blends. Enjoy a tasting at this intimate venue, and if you fall in love with the wines, make plans to attend the Newberry Harvest Festival in the summer. There is also a cozy cabin available for rent with views of the vines.
Enoree River Vineyards and Winery, 1650 Dusty Road, Newberry, S.C. Visit enoreeriverwinery.com.
Located off the beaten path is Mercer House Winery in Lexington. Covering 12 acres with more than 50 varietals, the estate winery creates a true taste of South Carolina. Winemaker Shannon Mercer takes pride in producing unique flavors with a nontraditional approach to winemaking. Try the estate wines or the “country wines,” a blend of local fruits.
Mercer House Winery, 397 Walter Rawl Road, Lexington, S.C. Visit reservewinetasting.as.me/schedule/09f19c82.
An escape to City Scape Winery in Pelzer is a perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon. If the goblet-shaped pool doesn’t draw you in, the hospitality will. Stroll the grounds, bring your own picnic and enjoy some alone time. Visit the website for special events, including a winemaker behind-the-scenes tour, and pick the date for your visit. Small plates, charcuterie and other goodies change monthly. Ask about Pinot the pig.
Found within the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is Lazy Bear Winery in Easley. Berries grown on the small winery’s 2-acre site are supplemented by farmers in the Greenville area to make wines from locally sourced ingredients. From mead to wine, the seasonal selections will sweeten your visit. Try the Pineapple Clementine by the glass or as a handmade candle.
Lazy Bear Winery, 644 Hester Store Road, Easley,S.C. Visit lazybearwinery.com.
Small-batch style is the only way to do it at Cat’s Paw Winery in Rock Hill. It offers 18 varieties of reds and whites. Sample a taste with a flight of five. It heralds its no-wine-headache flavors, creating small batches with no additional tannins or sulfites.
Cat’s Paw Winery, 1567 Fayrene Road, Rock Hill, S.C.
Visit catspawwinery.com.
Linger Longer Along the Coast
For a romantic getaway, select the destination ranked one of the best locations in the United States: Charleston. Choose the French Quarter Inn, located downtown, and enjoy captivating luxury showered in Southern hospitality.
Surrounded by history, the alluring boutique inn offers rooms that range from traditional to deluxe suites, providing a view of the city’s rooftops. Sink into the European linen bedding, soak in
the marble tub and enjoy the evening turndown service as you recap your day in Charleston. Wake to a complimentary European continental breakfast, served in the lobby or delivered to your room. A romantic package is available, featuring a private carriage tour, a bottle of champagne, gift basket and more. Book early for best room selection.
French Quarter Inn, 155 Church St., Charleston, S.C. Visit fqicharleston.com.
North of Charleston delivers an option minus the long drive to wineries. Consider The Ellie Beach Resort in Myrtle Beach, located steps from the beach and close to the boardwalk. What began as a military-style dorm now lives as a 30-acre getaway with modern amenities and on-site dining.
The Ellie Beach Resort, 3200 South Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach. Visit elliebeachresortmyrtlebeach.com.
Head south of the city to Old Town Bluffton Inn, only 8 miles from Hilton Head. Its modern luxury offers an intimate bespoke experience tailored for two. A variety of Lowcountry excursions can be booked upon arrival.
Old Town Bluffton Inn, 1321 May River Road, Bluffton. Visit blufftoninnsc.com.
Coastal Wineries from North to South
The coastal region is filled with wineries, so you’re sure to discover a favorite. Lots of tour companies, one being Charleston Winery Tours, offer group bookings. If it’s romance you’re after, strike out on your own for a personal experience.
Begin in the heart of Charleston at the city’s first urban winery, Charleston Winery. The wines are produced with grapes sourced from around the state. Enjoy a guided tasting in the tasting room, complemented with artisanal cheeses. The Charleston Red and Charleston White are visitor favorites.
Situated on 48 acres and about a 20-minute drive from
Charleston, The
Deep Water Vineyard brings you the best of the coast. The winery is situated under the coastal live oaks, waterside, creating the ultimate romantic rendezvous. Walking trails, a pond and picnic areas welcome visitors to taste their muscadine blends plus others created from a partner California vineyard. Meads available, as well as bloody marys on Saturdays.
Deep Water Vineyard, 6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island. Visit deepwatervineyard.com.
Experience Island Winery on Hilton Head Island. What began as a hobby for the Mortimers, influenced by the vineyards of New York’s Finger Lakes region, morphed into a location on the island for wine lovers. Meet at the red barn and sample the Lowcountry’s fruit blends of whites and reds. Always unveiling new blends, Island Winery offers a tasting of six. Choose the cozy barrel room for an intimate setting.
Island Winery, 15 Cardinal Road, Hilton Head. Visit islandwinery.com.
Head north to Myrtle Beach and visit the tasting room of Carolina Vineyards and its Boardwalk Winery. Choose seven available wines, dubbed a “vacation in a bottle.” From dry to sweet, blackberries and raspberries add variety to coastal flavors.
A tiny winery located on Daufuskie Island, Silver Dew Winery is housed in an 1883 building called the “wick house.” Known as a place to store oil, wicks and lamps for the nearby Bloody Point Lighthouse, it was converted into a winery, making elixirs from grapes, scuppernong and other berries. The name “Silver Dew” was first mentioned by author Pat Conroy in his novel, “The Water Is Wide.” Rent a bike and explore the island.
It was a warm summer afternoon and my wife and I were mingling with the best of them. The occasion was a 1920s-themed party, and everyone was dressed to the nines. Parked on the manse’s circular driveway was a beautiful classic convertible. It was here that I got the idea for our new 1920s Retrograde Watch.
Never ones to miss an opportunity, we carefully steadied our glasses of bubbly and climbed into the car’s long front seat. Among the many opulent features on display was a series of dashboard dials that accentuated the car’s lavish aura. One of those dials inspired our 1920s Retrograde Watch, a genuinely unique timepiece that marries timeless style with modern technology.
With its remarkable retrograde hour and minute indicators, sunburst guilloche face and precision movement, this design is truly one of a kind. What does retrograde mean? Instead of displaying the hands rotating on an axis like most watches, the hands sweep in a semicircle, then return to their starting point and begin all over again.
Retrograde watches by the big brands can set you back thousands; one recent offering from a big French fashion house is selling for more than $150,000! But because we’ve designed the 1920s Retrograde Watch in-house, we can offer it to you for just $99!
This watch is so wildly popular with our customers that we’re actually concerned about running out; we only have 937 729 left for this ad!
Watch Specifications:
• Precision movement
• Stainless steel case, caseback and crown
• Retrograde hour and minute indicators
• Water-resistant to 5 ATM
• Brown genuine leather band
• Fits wrists up to 8"
1920s Retrograde Watch
$399 $99* + S&P Save $300
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
“An elegant and exciting timepiece that every collector will love.”
— George omas, internationally renowned watch expert
