Carabo Farms has mastered the art of beekeeping from hive to harvest Page 6
PHOTO BY KRISTEN HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
We’re Ready for Storm Season. Are You?
Summer will be here next month. Like many of you, I welcome more opportunities to be outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather. Summertime brings many of my favorite activities, such as cooking out with family and friends, spending afternoons on the water and simply slowing down a bit to enjoy life.
But summer months also make conditions right for dangerous storms. Hurricane season officially starts June 1, and forecasters expect it to be active. These potential weather events can damage our electrical system, but MPD Electric Cooperative crews are ready and standing by to respond should power outages occur in our area.
When major storms knock out power, our line crews take all necessary precautions before they work on any downed lines. I encourage you to also practice safety and preparedness to protect your family during major storms and outages.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends the items below as a starting point for storm and disaster preparedness. Visit www.ready.gov for additional resources.
• Make sure flashlights, battery-powered lanterns and other light sources are readily available.
• Make sure flashlights are operational and radio batteries are fresh.
• Have an adequate supply of medicine, first-aid supplies, and items for babies or vulnerable family members.
• Keep a two-week supply of bottled water, nonperishable food items, batteries— including battery banks for phones—and solar-powered lights on hand.
• Refill essential prescriptions in case of an extended power outage or extensive damage to the area.
• Keep identification and documentation on hand, such as your Social Security card, driver’s license, and insurance information for your home, car and life.
• Make an evacuation plan for you and your family in case of an extended power outage.
• In the event of a prolonged power outage, turn off major appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This helps avert damage from a power surge and helps prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. Leave one light on so you will know when power is restored.
• If you plan to use a generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely. MPD offers financing and installation of whole-home Generac generators. Call our office at 866-747-0060 to speak with a generator professional about personalized options for your home.
• Listen to local news for storm and emergency information, and check MPD’s website, SmartHub app and Facebook page for power restoration updates.
• After the storm, avoid downed power lines. Do not walk through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs, including on your property.
I hope we don’t experience severe storms this summer, but we can never truly predict nature’s plans. At MPD Electric Cooperative, we recommend you act today, because there is power in planning. From our co-op family to yours, we hope you have a safe and wonderful summer.
DAVID HOWELL Trustee
Table of Contents
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT
Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Mike Teegarden, CCC
SC CURRENTS EDITORS
Jennifer Paton, CCC
Valeri Pearon
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Chasity Anderson, CCC
Victoria Hampton, CCC
David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Nina Todea
SENIOR MANAGER, PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION
Elizabeth Beatty
PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
South Carolina Currents (issue 61) 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
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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!
Crab Rice and Memories
This rustic dish is fit for Lowcountry kings and
Fripp Island Expands Its Ecotourism
Explore nature, wildlife and incredible night skies. Page 34
Sw t Returns
Carabo Farms has mastered the art of beekeeping from hive to harvest
By Jodi Helmer
When Chelsea Carabo attended her first beekeeping association meeting in 2021, beekeepers teased her for growing her operation so quickly.
“I thought, ‘I’ll get two hives and see how it goes,’” Chelsea recalls. “By the end of that first summer, when I went to the beekeepers association meeting, I had 13 hives.”
She now tends to 50 beehives and a waiting list of customers eager to purchase honey from Carabo Farms.
From Boston to Blenheim
Chelsea grew up in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. She had no farming background or plans to pursue a career in agriculture, but that changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chelsea and her husband, Adam, were living in Greenville
with their two children while she worked as a professional organizer. Food shortages and empty grocery store shelves changed how Chelsea felt about her suburban lifestyle.
“We realized how quickly things could change, and our priorities shifted,” she says. “We wanted to be sustainable on our own”
The couple moved to Adam’s hometown of Blenheim.
The Carabo family has a long history of agriculture in Marlboro County. In addition to running Carabo Grocery—a popular country store that opened in 1939—the family farmed more than 500 acres, raising cows and hogs, and growing crops from tobacco and soybeans to u-pick strawberries.
Adam’s grandfather, Melvin, retired from farming and his father, Mel, sells farm equipment at the local Kubota dealership. Although farming runs in the family, Adam is an aerospace engineer at Wyman Gordon. Adam believed the family farm would be the ideal setting for a beekeeping operation.
Tractors and seed drills were used to plant acres of clover, wildflowers and buckwheat. Chelsea placed hives in the nectar-rich fields, giving bees lots of space to forage.
Chelsea took multiple online courses, read several books and watched countless YouTube videos about beekeeping, but nothing prepared her for the realities of working with bees.
“I thought, ‘I’m good to go,’ and then I got into the hive and had no idea what I was looking at,” she says. “Getting hands-on experience is really the best. I was so much more prepared my second season. A lot of people think it’s a ‘set it and forget it’ project (and) don’t realize that it takes a lot of maintenance to care for the bees.”
In South Carolina, beekeeping season starts in early February. It’s still too cold then for the bees to emerge from the hives, so Chelsea spends time on maintenance tasks, including preparing frames and painting hives.
Hive inspections begin as soon as the weather gets warmer.
Chelsea opens each hive, checking to make sure they are diseasefree, ensuring the bees have enough space and resources to survive, and making hive splits as needed. She also sets up swarm boxes in the spring to catch bees that swarm.
Working the hives is a time-consuming process and can be a painful one. Although the bees are gentle (and Chelsea does her best to minimize their stress), she is stung regularly.
Chelsea wears a bee suit and carries
an Epi pen, but she knows bee stings are an occupational hazard for beekeepers.
The first honey harvest is in July. Depending on the strength of the hive, a second honey harvest may happen in September. So far, Carabo Farms has sold out of all the honey the bees produce almost as soon as it’s available.
Throughout the season, Chelsea focuses on the health of her hives, not the size of the harvest. She only harvests excess honey and ensures the bees have enough to nourish them through the winter.
The bees seem to appreciate the effort; Chelsea harvested 2,000 pounds of honey last season.
Sweet Success
Carabo Farms sells raw, unfiltered honey—with or without the comb—and value-added products, including beeswax taper candles, beeswax melts, and tallow and honey balm. The products are sold at www.carabofarms.com. Products are shipped nationwide and available for pickup at the farm or farmers market.
Since Carabo Farms produces fewer than 4,000 pounds of honey per year, Carabo isn’t required to have a commercial honey license, which means she can harvest honey in her kitchen and sell directto-consumers. However, she knows that will change.
Chelsea recently purchased a 14-by-40-foot building for a
commercial honey kitchen. It’s an essential infrastructure to take Carabo Farms to the next
Chelsea also has expanded the locations of her hives, partnering with local farmers to place hives on their land. There are currently hives at a lavender farm in Dillon and near the strawberry fields at McArthur Farms in Bennettsville.
“A lot of farms will pay for pollination services and for beekeepers to bring bees to pollinate their plants,” she says. “I’m not charging for that because it’s helping me as much as it’s helping them, and everyone is really excited.”
As Chelsea gets more requests from local farmers interested in having beehives on their land, she has one strict requirement: No pesticides or herbicides allowed. The chemicals are toxic to the bees, which presents a challenge in Marlboro County—where presents a challenge since most farmers routinely spray their crops.
Chelsea has lost several hives in the past, which she believes was due to chemical exposures.
“We rarely have any houses around us, but there’s just big farm areas of corn and wheat and soybeans, and all of that stuff is getting sprayed,” she says. “I can’t control how far my bees go. The bees are going to go into those areas, and I want to raise awareness about how we can protect the pollinators and different alternatives to using these chemicals.”
Chelsea works with Main Street Bennettsville and McLeod Health Access Health on a community pollinator planters project in downtown Bennettsville. The goal is to install planters filled with native pollinator plants in the downtown business district to ensure bees have access to an abundance of the nectar-rich plants
pollinator trail will include signage explaining native plants and educating the community on the importance of protecting pollinator populations, as well as activating downtown spaces and supporting local businesses.
A Hive of Activity
Running a beekeeping business has proved to be more complex than Chelsea anticipated.
Her attention is on the bees during the spring and summer when most of her time is spent on hive inspections, assembling hive boxes and waxing frames. There are also myriad other tasks to complete to keep Carabo Farms buzzing along, from posting on social media and packaging honey to sales, customer service and bookkeeping.
“There are days when I feel like, ‘Oh my gosh, I should be so much further along than I am,’ but then I think about all the things that I’ve had to learn and all the things that I have to juggle,” Chelsea says. “It’s been such a big learning curve.”
Product development has been as time-consuming as learning the art of beekeeping. Chelsea spent more than a year perfecting her beeswax candles.
“Beeswax is really hard to work with,” she says. “You have to test all over again with each new batch of beeswax because there can be slight differences in the wax that cause it to burn differently, so it takes a lot of testing even if you think you have the recipe down.”
Rather than making scented candles, she focuses on natural
beeswax candles with no artificial fragrances or colors. She says they’re “simple wax candles with a faint honey smell and none of the parabens going into the air.”
Carabo Farms also sells a gift set that contains honey, beeswax candles, melts, beeswax tallow and honey balm. She’s working on producing a line of soap that she hopes to sell soon.
Establishing a commercial honey kitchen and securing a commercial honey license from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture will allow Carabo Farms to initiate wholesale sales and make products available through other retailers in South Carolina and beyond.
Although the business is growing, Carabo Farms will never become a commercial beekeeping operation.
“I don’t want to grow at a massive pace and have 1,000 hives all in one place,” Chelsea says. “I might grow beyond what we’re doing, but I would need help; I’d have to find other farms that don’t use pesticides (to place new hives) and find someone to help me tend to those hives that are spread around a wide area, but I don’t want to rush into that.
“The bees are always going to be the first priority.”
TOP FROM FAR LEFT: The Carabo family produces small-batch honey on its farm in Blenheim. Sawyer, left, and Gray enjoy honeycomb fresh off the frame. William Lee Carabo opened Carabo’s Grocery in 1920. Melvin, far right, inherited the store in 1974 and ran it until he closed its doors in 1998. Gray and Sawyer are excited for freshly jarred honey.
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.
Charleston native and Civil War-era poet Henry Timrod began his career in this historic schoolhouse. The schoolhouse was built at Orange Grove Plantation after Henry accepted a teaching position in 1858 for Col. William Cannon and other local planters’ children. In 1938, the building was moved to its present location in Timrod Park outside of Mars Bluff in Florence County. Henry, often referred to as the poet laureate of the Confederacy, rose to fame with poems inspiring young men to join the Confederate States Army. One such poem, “Carolina,” is used as the lyrics for South Carolina’s state song.
Crab Rice and Memories
This rustic dish is fit for Lowcountry kings and final farewells
Story and photos by Libby Wiersema
“I’d ride the falling tide out, the flood tide home, fishing, crabbing, throwing a net for shrimp, picking oysters in season but mostly just bumming, learning the wiles of wind and wave.” —Roger Pinckney XI
An afternoon of porch-sitting concluded in its usual, grand way: watching the shifting colors of a Daufuskie Island dusk. As the spartina grasses gobbled the sun and darkness rolled out like an inky fog across the salt marsh, the master of the porch issued an order:
“Let’s go in and make some supper.”
It was Day 5 of a visit last October with my friend and mentor, Roger Pinckney XI. You would be hard-pressed to find a man
who lived a more interesting, Hemingwayesque life as a fearless adventurer, avid outdoorsman, fierce environmentalist, insightful columnist, crackerjack essayist, colorful novelist and peerless raconteur.
Days earlier, he had phoned me at the crack of dawn to deliver some stunning news.
“It’s official. I’m going to croak,” he said excitedly, as if he had just gotten notice of a lottery win rather than an expiration date. “Get on down to Daufuskie. I got some more stories for you, and they are Pulitzer-worthy.”
With a lump in my throat, I began slinging clothes into a bag, loading my suitcase with food and cooking supplies—the island has no grocery store or bridge—and
gathering up notebooks, pens, computer, camera and other tools of my trade.
As Roger’s friend and biographer, I had both a need and a duty to show up. Upon arrival, I found him looking frailer and thinner, but still mentally sharp as ever and otherwise very much alive. (A few days after my departure, a pacemaker would solve his most-pressing issues.)
I will forever be grateful for that urgent summons, though. On April 3, his daughter called to tell me Roger had died in the early morning hours. Hence, I am still in the throes of reliving those last special days with him.
Which brings us back to spiritual sunsets and Southern suppers. When Roger announced on the porch that it was
Bacon serves as a savory contrast to the sweetness of the crab meat in this rich and complex Gullah staple.
Ol’
Fuskie Crab Rice
From “Gullah Home Cooking the Daufuskie Way” by Sallie Ann Robinson
1½ cups uncooked rice
2¼ cups warm water
Pinch salt
2 strips bacon
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1½ to 2 pounds crabmeat (lump and claw)
1 tablespoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Measure the dry rice, then rinse and drain it several times. Put it in a medium pot with the warm water and salt. Cover, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes or more, until the rice is done, and the water is absorbed.
Fry the bacon in a 12-inch skillet until crispy. When the bacon is done, remove it from the pan and set aside. Crumble when cool.
Add the oil to the bacon fat in the skillet. Heat, then add the celery, bell
time to turn our attention to the night’s meal, we headed to the kitchen. I had been preparing meals all week, but on this night, he wanted to make something for me.
He fished a bag of fresh blue crab meat from the refrigerator, set on a pot of Carolina Gold rice using an old Charleston steamer, and pulled out an iron skillet that might have been forged generations ago and used by a previous Roger Pinckney. He was giddy as he cooked to the sounds of his favorite artist, Lucinda Williams. When he dished up my supper, he was particularly pleased.
“Crab rice. It’s good for ya. Been eatin’ it all my life,” he said, as if he had to convince me of its palatability and nutritional powers.
As a native of Beaufort, Roger had been navigating the Lowcountry waterways since age 10, when his father presented him with a bateau and set him loose. Mullet and grits, wild boar, shrimp,
pepper and onion. Stir-fry until the onions are clear, then add the crab. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until the crab begins to brown. Add the crumbled bacon, cooked rice, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Stir constantly
oysters, red drum, even rattlesnake—the man had a long history of scratching out his sustenance from what lurked locally.
“If a man goes hungry ’round here, it’s his own damn fault,” he was fond of saying.
Yes, Roger was farm-and-sea-to-fork way before it was a movement.
I admit a plate of rattlesnake stew might have given me some pause. But crab rice? That was all right by me.
Seated at that weathered table with Roger and his best friend, I relished every bite and savored the authentic flavors of Roger’s beloved Daufuskie. A Gullah staple, crab rice is simply structured but layered with hints of richness and complexity.
Above, I share a recipe for crab rice from a Daufuskie native, former student of Pat Conroy, keeper of Gullah traditions, and Roger’s friend, Sallie Anne Robinson. If you cannot source fresh crab meat,
until evenly combined. Cover the mixture and simmer for at least 10 minutes.
If you’d like a meatier mixture, just use more crab and less rice.
buy the best quality cold-packaged crab meat you can find. Feel free to spice it up according to your preferences by adding fresh jalapeno, hot sauce, Old Bay or extra vegetables. Any pot will do if you do not have a Charleston rice steamer.
Now, put on some Lucinda Williams, pour a cold drink, put the rice on, pull out the iron skillet and have fun preparing a dish favored by a Lowcountry king who fiercely protected his island—which he called heaven—from developers and entertained us with his sometimes poignant, sometimes hilarious, often gritty stories and tales of his remarkable life. n
Libby Wiersema writes about dining, food trends and the state’s culinary history for Discover South Carolina, and other print and online media. Contact her at libbyscarolinaspoon@gmail.com, or visit the Carolina Spoon Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SClibby.1111.
The makings of a Lowcountry dish include high quality cold-packed crab meat.
A Time to Honor
By Dave LaBelle
It’s a real paradox for me: I hate war, but I love and honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we enjoy.
Michael Rummel called me from his Southern California home and asked if we could talk. He had met my son at Field of Dreams in Iowa and had read my latest book. Michael was struggling with some unfinished business— a promise he had made in Vietnam to fellow Marine Ron Denton some 50 years earlier. While drinking beer in Vietnam, the men had made a pledge: Whoever died first,
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.
the other was to visit the deceased’s grave, drink a beer, say a few choice “Marine things,” then crumple the can and spike it into the earth. Silly perhaps, but a promise nonetheless.
Michael didn’t know where Ron was buried, but a search led him to Bowling Green, Kentucky, where Ron had lived the last part of his life.
“Fate is telling me to go to Bowling Green and say my special goodbye to Ron,” Michael told me.
But he was still on the fence about going. Hearing how troubled he was, I encouraged him to find Ron’s grave and keep his promise. Because I once lived in Bowling Green while teaching at Western Kentucky University, I told him I would meet him there.
“I have struggled with that decision for seven years now,” Michael confessed. “Your response has tipped the scale in
favor of doing it.”
He made the trip and completed his mission, thankful he did.
This brings me to another short but important story.
A young soldier from the small town I was living in had been killed in action. Out of respect, I dressed appropriately and photographed the sensitive outdoor burial service from a distance using a telephoto lens.
Upon seeing me, a decorated military officer assigned to the burial detail left the grave site and approached me as I photographed the interment. He firmly asked me not to photograph.
I respectfully refused his request.
“This young man died for the very freedoms you are asking me to deny,” I told him.
Unsure how to respond, he left me alone.
Reader Challenge
On this Memorial Day, make a photograph that honors the day and those who gave their lives in service. Remember, you are not taking anything but giving and honoring the fallen and their families when you celebrate their sacrifices. Move slowly and with reverence when documenting any service. Not overshooting is important.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
I meant no disrespect to the officer, the family or the fallen soldier. To the contrary, I was showing them respect for the laws and rights of our nation and honoring the young man’s service.
Vietnam veteran Michael Rummel fulfills a promise to a brother in arms. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON D700, 180mm lens ISO 200, f/4 at 1/400
SHE FOUGHT FOR HER COUNTRY. IT’S OUR DUTY TO FIGHT FOR HER.
Wounded Warrior Project ® long-term support programs provide these brave men and women whatever they need to continue their fight for independence. At no cost. For life. Help us help more of these warriors in their new life-long battle. Find out what you can do at fi ndWWP.org.
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Be a Fam With a Plan
It’s not pleasant to think about worst-case scenerios. However, with hurricane season right around the corner, a little planning can make a difference if the worst does happen.
Follow these tips to avoid feeling helpless during a disaster.
Before
• Communicate. Talk with your family about who to call, where to go and what to do if disaster strikes.
Emergency Management Contact Information
South Carolina https://www.scemd.org Planning Ideas
Red Cross www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-foremergencies/make-a-plan.html
Ready ready.gov
• Educate. Plan different strategies for different situations. Map out a fire escape route from all areas of your home, and establish a safe place to go during threatening weather. Make sure all family members know their full names, address and phone numbers. Agree on an out-of-town relative or friend to call if everyone gets separated during a disaster, and have an In Case of Emergency contact in your cellphone whom first responders can call if needed.
• Prepare. Set up warning systems in your home. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms give advance notice that can save lives. Use a battery-operated weather radio for advance storm warnings, and subscribe to your local Office of Emergency Management alerts by text or email. Keep an emergency kit handy with five days, worth of nonperishable food and water, medical supplies, a list of phone numbers—including your electric co-op and other utilities’ outage numbers—prescriptions and important documents. Plan for pets or any special needs for family members. Then practice your emergency plans.
During
• Keep calm. Think clearly and follow your plan. Use the resources you prepared in case of emergencies.
• Have extra battery power for phones. Keep a few charged power banks on hand so you can charge at least one phone. During extended outages, use the phone sparingly to reserve power.
After
• Be patient. Wait for all danger to pass. Never reenter an evacuated area without permission to do so, and use caution when you do go back into your home. You can’t always see danger, such as a ruptured gas line.
• Avoid delayed danger. Do not approach downed wires or power lines, and watch for rising waters. Keep standby generators in wellventilated areas. Never run a generator indoors, even in a garage.
With a little planning, the worst can be avoided during major storms and disasters. Taking the time to be prepared is worth the effort now in case of an emergency later.
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Across Dry place for sailors to wash (6)
Across
7 Dry place for sailors to wash (6)
8 Picked out of many (6)
9 Shout heard less in the Uber era (4)
10 Classy people (8)
11 Talented and competent, a ____ craftsperson (7)
Picked out of many (6)
13 Team on the Survivor series (5)
15 Among us, in our ____ (5)
17 Dallas footballers (7)
Shout heard less in the Uber era (4)
20 Having no bends (8)
21 All-in-one product’s selling points (4)
23 Out of sight, concealed (6)
24 Most kind (6)
Classy people (8)
Down
Talented and competent, a....craftsperson (7)
1 The largest continent; English progressive rock band (4)
2 A type of media (6)
3 Biker’s wear, often (7)
4 Approximately 70% of the Earth (5)
5 She may say, “Ask your dad” (6)
Term on the Survivor series (5)
6 Extremely; very badly (8)
12 Needlecraft to make sweaters, for example (8)
14 “Wheel of ____” (7)
16 Sunglasses (6)
Among us, in our ____ (5)
18 Spring back up (6)
19 Bond, for one (5)
22 “____ of Eden” (4)
Dallas footballers (7)
Having no bends (8)
All-in-one product's selling points (4)
Out of sight, concealed (6)
Most kind (6)
Down The largest continent; English progressive rock band (4)
5 She may say "ask your dad" (6)
A type of media
Puzzle solution on page 27.
It's Back: ZUCCHINI SEASON
Roasted Summer Squash
1 pound summer squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Heat oven to 400 F.
1 tablespoon panko bread crumbs
½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
Cut squash into ½-inch-thick slices. Toss with olive oil. Combine the remaining ingredients in a small bowl, and toss with squash.
Place the squash on a baking sheet. Roast for 12 to 14 minutes or until squash is tender.
Broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until crumbs are lightly browned.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY SVETLANA KOLPAKOVA
Easy Summer Squash and Zucchini Bread
½ cup yellow squash, grated
½ cup zucchini, grated
½ cup of brown sugar
½ cup white granulated sugar
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon allspice
Heat oven to 350 F.
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 extra-large eggs
½ cup chopped pecans and walnuts, plus extra for topping
Cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling
Combine yellow squash, zucchini, butter, eggs, brown sugar, white sugar and vanilla in a bowl. Mix well. Add the remaining ingredients. Combine until mixed and all ingredients are wet. Fold in nuts.
Pour into a greased 9-by-5 loaf pan. Top with extra nuts, and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes.
Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Zucchini Pesto Pasta
16 ounces spaghetti
6 medium yellow squash or zucchini, or mix of both
1 pint cherry tomatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
Olive oil
Heat oven to 400 F.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup basil pesto
½ cup pasta cooking water
1 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese
Fill a large pot with salted water, and bring to a boil.
Toss tomatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread out in one layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes. Wash zucchini. Cut off ends, then cut in half lengthwise. Slice into half-moon pieces.
Cook pasta until al dente. While it is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Use a pan that’s big enough to hold all the pasta when it’s cooked. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Turn down the heat to medium. Saute until you can start to smell garlic, about one minute.
Add the sliced zucchini. Season to taste with salt and fresh-ground black pepper. Cook until the zucchini is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the pesto to the cooked zucchini. Gently stir to combine. Add the roasted tomatoes. Add the drained cooked pasta to the zucchini/pesto/ tomato combination. Gently mix, adding pasta cooking water until the mixture is combined. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Southern Squash Casserole
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 to 8 squash, sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon butter
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sleeve crushed buttery crackers
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease a casserole dish.
Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Saute the squash and onion until soft. Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmesan, cheddar and sour cream. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
Scoop the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the cracker crumbs evenly over the top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Marinated Zucchini and Summer Squash
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1⁄3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound zucchini (about 3 large), trimmed and sliced diagonally, about ½-inch thick
1 pound yellow crookneck squash (about 3 large), trimmed and sliced diagonally, about ½-inch thick
Whisk the vinegar, lemon juice and garlic in a large bowl to blend. Season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in the oil.
Spoon 3 tablespoons of the marinade into a small bowl. Cover and set aside.
Add the zucchini and yellow squash to the remaining marinade in the large bowl. Toss to coat.
Transfer the mixture to a 9-by-13 glass baking dish. Cover and marinate at room temperature for at least three hours, or cover and refrigerate for up to one day.
Prepare a grill for medium-high heat.
Grill the vegetables until they are crisp-tender and brown, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes.
Transfer the vegetables to a platter. Drizzle with the reserved marinade. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Do
Pearl of the Pee Dee
Despite barriers, Pearl Moore persevered to become a women’s basketball great
By Libby Wiersema
Pearl Moore’s voice echoes through the wide-open space of the Florence basketball gymnasium named in her honor.
However, that is not the only place her echo has been heard as of late. Beneath the din of rousing accolades across the nation for NCAA women’s basketball star, Caitlin Clark, those listening a little more intently will have also picked up the name Pearl Moore.
The Florence native and 1979 graduate of Francis Marion University is a four-time women’s basketball All-American and still the all-time collegiate scoring leader for women’s basketball with 4,061 points.
Pearl’s record exceeds Caitlin’s 3,951 points, but since the NCAA did not begin running collegiate women’s athletics until 1981, Caitlin’s 3,951 points makes her the NCAA women’s basketball record-holder.
“I played at a time when we didn’t have a 3-point line, and women played with the same size basketball as the men,” says Pearl, who was a 5-foot-7-inch guard-forward. “I don’t begrudge Caitlin her NCAA record. In fact, I wish she would have stayed another year and broken my record so all this talk would die down.”
While Pearl remains the points record-holder for the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, which governed women’s college basketball during her tenure, Caitlin’s achievement has brought Pearl’s name back into the national discourse.
As Caitlin’s star ascended, Pearl Moore became a trending name on X as users touted the true women’s basketball points leader.
ESPN, USAToday, NBC, NPR, the Washington Post and more reported on and acknowledged her record. She even got a shoutout from actor Samuel L. Jackson, who ended his congratulatory post to the Lady Gamecocks with “Somewhere I hope Pearl Moore is smiling.”
And she was. That is not to say she does not bristle at having her record ignored altogether or downplayed.
“We were a small college and Division II school, and some folks think that means we had it easier, that we didn’t play good teams,” Pearl says. “That’s just not true, though. We played USC, Clemson, College of Charleston, Coastal Carolina—they were tough opponents. But let me say that no matter who we played, we played our hardest and best.
“I didn’t care who was on the court. I brought my best game each time.”
Any doubts in that regard can be laid to rest with a review of Pearl’s career, which began at Anderson Junior College. When she transferred to FMU after one semester, she had amassed 177 points in eight games.
If anyone influenced Pearl’s growth as a player, it would be Sylvia Hatchell, the legendary coach who led the Lady Patriots. She recognized Pearl’s remarkable abilities and proclaimed that her star player was ahead of her time.
Consider that Pearl helped lead FMU to three national championship appearances. However, there were no national spotlights for the hoops dynamo from a small, rural South Carolina town. Unlike today’s collegiate sports scene, she and other female athletes lacked resources and struggled to cobble together necessities to succeed on the court and in the classroom.
“Ask me about a girl who had to go without a uniform,” Pearl says. “Ask me about someone who had just one pair of sneakers to play in—one. We didn’t have sponsors giving us things, and women players didn’t get scholarships. I went to school on a Pell grant and never had a meal ticket until I was a senior. Sometimes the only way I could get a book I needed for a class was through leftover money from scholarships that male students didn’t use up.
“It was hard at times. Real hard.”
Still, she applied herself in the classroom and challenged herself on the court, grabbing 1,270 rebounds, shooting 45.9% from the field and 70% from the free-throw line—a school record at that time.
In 1978, Pearl was the South Carolina Amateur Athlete of the Year and in 1979, was named the American Women’s Sports
Foundation Small College Player of the Year.
She graduated with a degree in sociology in 1979 and went on to the Women’s Pro Basketball League for two seasons—with the New York Stars and St. Louis Streak. In 1981, she was officially named an all-star before spending a season playing in Venezuela. Pearl returned to South Carolina to start a life outside of the arena. She retired from the United States Postal Service and is a dedicated caregiver for family members facing healthcare challenges.
“Family is everything to me,” she says. “I do what I need to do.” However, the end of her career was not the end of the accolades.
Pearl was inducted into the Women’s National Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011 and named to the 2021 induction class for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. She is also in the Florence Area Athletic Hall of Fame and the Francis Marion University Athletic Hall of Fame.
“I was humbled by them all,” she says of the honors. “It felt good to represent Florence and Francis Marion on a national stage all these years later.”
In 2018, the city of Florence named the new basketball center on Barnes Street in Pearl’s honor. While it was a poignant moment for her, Pearl would have approached things a little differently had she had the choice.
“If I had some input on the naming of this facility, it would not carry my name but the name of my parents,” Pearl says. “Without them, there would be no Pearl Moore.”
The names of Lula and Span Moore are not memorialized on the façade of the gymnasium, but rest assured they are inked on the mind and heart of a daughter whose years of basketball achievements are a testament to their abiding love and support.
While Pearl’s record has been eclipsed by a rising young star, her place as the all-time collegiate women’s basketball pointsleader will stand. The name Pearl Moore will continue to echo through the annals of sports history.
“Records are made, and records are made to be broken,” she says. “It’s all good. God has been especially good to me. He’s given me so much, and I am grateful. I’ve had a wonderful, wonderful life.” n
Pearl Moore shows off her signed No. 12 jersey from her time at Francis Marion University. PHOTO COURTESY OF PEARL MOORE
Take Control of Summer Energy Use: Easy Tips for a More Efficient Home
By DeAnna Greene
As summer approaches, so does the onslaught of scorching temperatures, threatening to send your energy consumption and electric bill soaring. But fear not. With a few simple adjustments and mindful practices, you can keep your home comfortable and cool while saving energy and electricity costs.
Here are some effective strategies to reduce your summer energy use without breaking the bank:
• Thermostat takedown. It’s a simple concept with significant savings. For every degree you raise your thermostat during the day in the summer, you can trim your cooling costs. Invest in a smart thermostat to effortlessly adjust the temperature while you are away or asleep.
• Keep cool with fans. Ceiling fans and strategically placed floor fans can create a refreshing windchill effect, making you feel cooler without relying solely on the air conditioner.
• Embrace natural light. Make the most of daylight by opening the curtains in the morning to illuminate your space naturally. Remember to draw them
closed in the afternoon to block harsh sunlight and excess heat.
• Seal the deal. Don’t let small air leaks sabotage your air conditioning’s efficiency. Seal air leakage around windows and doors with caulking to keep cool air in and hot air out.
• Appliance awareness. Use your appliances wisely. Opt for stovetop cooking or outdoor grilling to minimize indoor heat from ovens. Smaller appliances, including slow cookers and air fryers, can reduce the heat from cooking. Use cold water when washing clothes and hang dry them when possible.
• Phantom power drain. Even when switched off, electronics can still draw power in standby mode. Combat this by plugging electronics into power strips and switching the strips off when not in use.
• The great lightbulb switch. Swap out traditional incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. Not only do they last longer, but they emit less heat, further reducing your cooling costs.
• Shower power. Opt for shorter showers over baths and consider installing a lowflow showerhead to decrease water use,
which also translates to less energy used for heating water.
• Regular checkups. Schedule routine maintenance for your air conditioning system to ensure optimal efficiency. A clogged air filter can force your system to work harder and consume more energy.
• SmartHub guidance: Use the SmartHub app to monitor your energy consumption regularly. These tools can help you identify where you can optimize your energy use. Breaking energy consumption down hourly can allow members to detect issues or change habits.
• Consider budget billing. Stabilize your monthly energy payments by opting for budget billing. This method calculates your bill based on a 12-month rolling average, spreading out higher-use months for more stable, predictable payment amounts. By integrating these strategies into your summer energy routine, you can transform your home into a cool oasis without straining your budget. Remember, a little planning and conscious energy use can go a long way in saving energy and money this season.
1920s Style for a 1920s Price
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
“[A] unique and beautiful timepiece.”
— Carlos C., Los Banos, CA
Fun Festivals&
MAY 10-12
NASCAR Throwback Weekend
The most competitive racing on the planet returns to the track known as “Too Tough to Tame.” Prices vary. For more information, visit darlingtonraceway.com.
A story of true love and acceptance between sisters: Princesses Anna and Elsa. Tickets are $7 per person.
7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday
FLORENCE LITTLE THEATER
417 S. Dargan St., Florence
MAY 11
Hartsville Farmers Market
Produce, meats, eggs, owers, prepared foods, artwork, handmade crafts and more.
9 a.m.-Noon Downtown Hartsville
MAY 16-18
42nd Annual Florence Greek Festival
Greek dinners, pastries, live music, vendors, Greek jewelry and collectibles, church tours and more.
11 a.m.-8 p.m.
2990 S. Cashua Drive, Florence
MAY 17
Grateful Dog Festival
MAY 1719
Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr.
MAY 17
Grateful Dog Festival
For the 13th year, families and their dogs help raise money for area humane societies. Live music, silent auction, food and merch vendors, and kids’ zone. General admission is $15.
SUGAR MAGNOLIA RANCH
889 Tara Drive, Timmonsville
MAY 17-19
Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid Jr.’
In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home behind and live in the world above. Admission is $7 per person. For more information, visit orencelittletheatre.org/ shows.
FLORENCE LITTLE
THEATER
417 S. Dargan St., Florence
MAY 18
Market in May
The market includes unique annuals and perennials, as well as craft vendors and food trucks.
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
MOORE FARMS
BOTANICAL GARDENS
100 New Zion Road, Lake City
MAY 11
Hartsville Farmers Market
MAY 1012
NASCAR Throwback Weekend events@marlboro.coop
MAY 18
Darlington County Museum Grand Opening Celebrate the ribbon cutting, view historical exhibits, interpretive history and more.
10 a.m.
DARLINGTON COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION AND MUSEUM
204 Hewitt St., Darlington
MAY 21
State of Power Breakfast
Panel discussion on utilities, a regional perspective of the importance of power and the role of utilities in economic development.
8:30-10 a.m.
HARTSVILLE COUNTRY CLUB
116 Golf Course Road, Hartsville
The grace of swans and the delight of irises in Sumter Swan Lake Iris Gardens
By Vikki Moran
Isn’t it fascinating how something as simple as a toss of dead Japanese irises led to the blooming beauty of Sumter’s Swan Lake Iris Gardens?
It all began in 1927 when homeowner Hamilton Carr Bland decided to dispose of his bulbs in the swampy grounds on his property. What started as a gardening mishap became the splendid array of irises we enjoy today.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens, nestled at 822 W. Liberty St., is a true gem.
Its gates open at 7:30 a.m. each day, inviting visitors to bask in nature’s wonders until dusk.
Mark your calendars for the annual Iris Festival, a delightful event set for May 23-26.
The Irises
Swan Lake Iris Gardens boasts some of the most breathtaking plantings of Japanese irises in the nation. Their annual bloom, from mid- to late May into early June, is a spectacle not to be missed.
The Iris Festival, a four-day celebration, is a feast for the senses with concerts, arts
and crafts, car shows, contests and plenty of activities for the little ones. The irises are a highlight for beauty-loving tourists from far and wide.
The Swans
Picture this: swans from all eight species— from royal white mutes to black-necked swans—each with its own grace, gliding serenely across the lake’s surface. They are a sight to behold.
One success story through conservation efforts is that of the trumpeter swan, native
ABOVE: A band entertains at the Sumter Iris Festival.
ABOVE LEFT and RIGHT: Swans partake in a constant water dance. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF SUMTER
to North America. Once on the brink of extinction, these majestic birds have had a remarkable comeback, thanks to protected areas such as Swan Lake.
When you take a leisurely stroll around the garden, you might spot swans out of the water. You may even see them standing on one leg. It’s a curious and amusing sight, but don’t worry—they haven’t lost a leg. Swans have a knack for hiding one limb, a charming quirk they maintain for several minutes at a time.
As lovely as they are, swans are fiercely territorial and protective of their young. Do not attempt to touch the birds. If you bring children along, keep them close to you.
Flowers, Birds and Sensory Delights
The garden doesn’t stop at swans and irises. A vibrant palette of seasonal blossoms graces its grounds—camellias, azaleas, daylilies and Japanese magnolias are a visual delight. A birdwatcher’s paradise, it is also home to Canada geese, herons, egrets and a variety of other
LEFT: Iris blooms grace the landscape.
LEFT TOP: The Butterfly Garden is part of the sensory explosion.
OPPOSITE PAGE: A world famous attraction, this free public park features all eight species of swans, along with Sumter native Grainger McKoy’s “Recovery” sculpture.
feathered friends.
A sensory trail, designed for the blind, provides a chance to savor the scents and sensations of the gardens. The talking tree trail shares stories of the past and present. With its rose garden, azalea garden, butterfly garden and chocolate garden, the 150-acre property has something for everyone.
Admission is free. As you enter through the main gate, find the Sumter area visitors center. It’s the go-to for walking tours, maps, community insights and a charming souvenir shop—the perfect way to start a day at this enchanting oasis. n
For more information on Sumter’s Swan Lake Iris Gardens, including its annual events, visit www.sumtersc.gov/community/swanlake.
Recharge, Reflect and Rejoice
Being a mom can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but motherhood isn’t easy. Between the home, children, work and other responsibilities, it’s easy to put self-care at the bottom of the list of priorities.
However, self-care is essential for moms to keep their physical, emotional and mental well-being in check. Taking time to care for yourself can help you recharge and be better equipped to handle the challenges that come with your motherhood journey. Remember, a happy, healthy mom makes for a happier, healthier family.
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, what better time than now to incorporate some self-love into our daily routines? Here are a few tips to help pause, reflect and appreciate the jobs we do daily as moms and practice some much-needed self-care.
Take A Break
Taking a break from your daily responsibilities can be incredibly refreshing. Whether going for a walk, taking a long bath, curling up with a book, or enjoying a moment of silence with your morning coffee, find something you can enjoy and take some time out of your busy schedule to prioritize it.
Set a timer, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. Taking a short break is a great way to clear your mind and recharge your day.
Connect With Friends and Other Moms
Being a mom can easily make you feel isolated at times. Everyone has their own families and jobs to keep up with. But connecting with friends and other moms is a great way to feel supported and understood.
Join a mom’s group or book club, or make a date with an acquaintance to catch up. Setting aside time to share your experiences with someone who understands what you’re going through can be incredibly comforting and uplifting.
Treat Yourself
Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself. Whether it’s a massage, your favorite dessert, some retail therapy or a bouquet, treat yourself to something that makes you happy. Remember, you deserve it!
Practice Gratitude
With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to focus on what’s not going right and overlook the things that are going right. Taking the time to practice gratitude can help shift our focus and change our mindset to a positive one.
Whether it’s your family, health, job or something as simple as some good food or a beautiful sunset, take a few minutes to
be mindful of these everyday blessings. Saying them out loud or writing them down in a journal is a great way to retrain your mind into a happier, healthier one.
Get Outdoors
Stop and smell the roses, literally. Getting outdoors can be as simple as going for a walk outside, a relaxing picnic or a day filled with outdoor adventures.
A dose of fresh air and sunlight can do wonders to lift your mood and rejuvenate your soul. Take time outside to enjoy the peace that Mother Nature can bring.
Sleep in or Take a Nap
Quality sleep is crucial for your physical and mental health. Make getting a good night’s sleep a priority. Start with powering down electronics before bed to create a calm and relaxing sleep environment.
This digital detox has the power to calm and reset your mind. Make your bed your safe haven, and grab those extra thread counts, a luxurious eye mask and extra pillows. A well-rested mama makes all the difference.
Let Go of Mom Guilt
Taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It is a necessity. Moms often feel guilty for taking time for themselves, but it’s important to remember that caring for yourself is not selfish. It’s so important to practice self-compassion.
This Mother’s Day, I hope all mothers stop to take a moment to celebrate themselves and implement these tips for self-care into their lives—for Mother’s Day and beyond.
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.
Mother’s Day is May 12. Moms should take the time to make self-care a priority. PHOTO
BY BRANDI FAULK
Leather Wristlet and Wallet Set, $90
Compact, stylish and super handy, this leather wristlet and wallet set from Avryn Co. is just what you need to keep your essentials close at hand.
Whether going out for a night on the town, running out for quick errands or jetting off for a little getaway, this minimalist option will keep things simple. The set is easy to carry while on the go and less likely to be misplaced since it conveniently connects to your wrist.
This set includes a wristlet, brass spring gate keyring for easily adding keys without messing up nails, and a wallet that holds up to eight credit cards and works with tap to pay. Crafted with full grain leather, the pieces are made for women by women in Greenville at Avryn Co. studio.
This set is also available for customization, with each letter and number being individually hand-stamped. Choose from any easy-to-match neutral shades, or pick a bold color to go with a specific look.
Come find out why women everywhere swap their everyday purses for these practical yet adorable leather wristlet wallets. They make the perfect gift, from Mother’s Day to birthdays. It’s time to ditch the chunky bags and simply grab and go. avrynco.com
Kiss My Grits Lip Scrub, $16
Luscious lips start with Salacia Salt’s Kiss My Grits Lip Scrub. This all-natural lip scrub works to remove dead skin cells and leaves behind a super silky smooth surface for lipstick or lip balm.
This unique and edible formula is infused with Georgia ground white corn grits, Atlantic sea salt and organic sugar, which work to gently buff away rough, dry skin while coconut oil, pecan oil and vitamin E hydrate and condition lips.
Simply scoop and massage the exfoliating lip scrub onto your lips and rinse away—or lick off—the excess product. It’s that delicious! Available in 8 tasty flavors: peach, margarita, coconut
cream pie, praline, blueberry, mint julep, original and Key lime.
Each product is hand-crafted with clean ingredients good for your skin and the Earth, made right here in the South. Salacia Salts is a Savannah-based company that takes pride in providing a high-quality collection of sustainably sourced products inspired by the sea—salt soaks, scrubs, moisturizers and more.
All are hand-mixed and packaged in eco-friendly containers, including the cobalt blue wine bottles upcycled from Savannah Bee Company’s mead tastings.
salaciasalts.com
Babiators Sunglasses for Kids, $28
Get your little ones ready for fun in the sun with their very own pair of Babiators. These stylish sunglasses are perfect for blocking those harmful UV rays in style. From the playground to the beach, these sunnies protect little eyes from the sun’s harsh rays with UV400 lenses that offer 100% UVA protection.
Designed to be essentially kid-proof, each pair features a flexible rubber frame built to endure a little one’s many adventures and can bend and twist without breaking, along with impact and shatter-resistant lenses.
These award-winning Babiators make the perfect accessory, with many fun styles and shapes. Each pair comes with a microfiber storage bag—which doubles as a cleaning cloth—and a one-year replacement guarantee. Lost or broken, get the next pair for free!
From the coolest shades on the hottest days to their new line of UV apparel, stock up on Babiators for the sun protection your kids need.
babiators.com
Fripp Island Expands its Ecotourism
By Cheré Coen
It’s one thing to read about birds traveling 12,500 miles each year in spring migration. It’s quite another to observe one overhead as it migrates from Canada to Costa Rica.
That’s what the folks at Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort witnessed, courtesy of the Motus Wildlife Tracking System, an international collaborative network that tracks wildlife species through an automated radio telemetry. A bobolink had been tagged by Motus, and the bird sent off a signal as he passed over the South Carolina barrier island.
“It was pretty exciting,” says Colleen Goff, Fripp Island head naturalist.
That bobolink knows a good thing. Fripp Island is a bird haven, attracting about 190 species each year. It is one of six islands that make up the Beaufort Barrier Island Global Important Bird Area designated by the National Audubon Society and is a
National Wildlife Federation Community Wildlife Habitat.
Online community research resource Livability rated Fripp Island Resort among the desirable places for humans, too, as one of the “Best South Carolina Beaches for Avoiding Crowds.”
Visitors love the 3 miles of uninterrupted coastline a short drive from Beaumont, and so does the wildlife.
“We want to be mindful of the environment, the animals and nature because that’s what makes Fripp Island special,” says Michelle P. Groves, Fripp Island director of marketing.
Michelle has seen a rise in ecotourism when people book vacations. The resort has responded with additional nature
programming. She hopes the efforts bring awareness to environmental conservation.
“When people think of the island, they think of deer, fishing, etc.,” Colleen says. “People associate Fripp Island with wildlife and nature.”
Naturally—pun intended—Colleen’s favorite part of the job is educating visitors. The resort offers a wide variety of programs that get visitors on the beach and in the neighboring salt marshes. Programs range from quietly observing birds and wildlife to equipping visitors with everything they need for a day of fishing.
“There’s a whole menagerie of programs,” she says. “We have something for everyone.”
One of the most popular programs is
RIGHT: Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort gives guests access to several pools. PHOTOS COURTESY OF
BACKGROUND: The resort features two golf courses with views of the island’s natural scenery.
Gatorology, an all-ages introduction to the reptiles that inhabit the island. The first half of the program discusses alligators, and the second half teaches visitors how to spot and safely observe the reptiles in their native habitat.
“There are approximately 150 to 200 alligators on the island,” Colleen says. “About 20 are over 7 feet.”
Fripp has alligators to show visitors in the resort’s nature center, but none are longer than 3 feet.
Another regular to the barrier island is the loggerhead turtle, South Carolina’s official state reptile. The marine reptiles nest along the beaches from May to October. Colleen leads a walk in summer to educate visitors about the turtles and their delicate nesting habits.
“They’re a charismatic reptile, and people really care about them,” she says.
The Beach Eco Walk also addresses how the barrier island and its sand dunes were formed. Colleen incorporates a “shell and tell” where visitors identify whatever they find on the beach that day.
Birders—who flock to Fripp to spot the resident and migratory species—may spot colorful painted buntings, pink roseate spoonbills and rare species such as Wilson plovers.
Colleen has seen a rise in birding, especially among younger visitors.
“That’s super exciting because we’re on the Atlantic Flyway,” she says of the East Coast bird migration pathway.
Consequently, the island is treated to visits from migratory species.
A two-hour guided tour of the salt marsh with naturalists allows visitors to spot many of these birds, as well as dolphins and other sea creatures.
Fripp’s kayak trips take place in the mornings and at sunset, the latter offering a blaze of color through the marsh.
“To me, the salt marsh is the heart of the Lowcountry,” Colleen says.
Michelle has a soft spot for “Discovery After Dark,” a nighttime program to view
constellations and nocturnal wildlife. There is little light pollution around the resort.
“The night sky is incredible,” Michelle says.
To get up close to wildlife, the resort’s nature center offers ambassador animals: reptiles such as snakes, small alligators and turtles. There’s even an endangered Eastern indigo snake named Indie, the longest snake in America. The species used to live in South Carolina but is now mostly found in Florida.
Starting this spring, Fripp Island Resort initiates its Junior Naturalist Program aimed at children to teenagers. To receive the designation, participants must collect eight stamps in three levels of programming.
“It’s similar to getting Girl Scout badges,” Colleen says.
For more information about Fripp Island and its nature programming, visit https://frippislandresort.com.
FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Nature programming at Fripp Island includes equipping visitors for a day of fishing. The Fripp Island Marina is a fullservice facility on Old House Creek.
Small alligators are on hand at Fripp Island’s nature center for visitors to view and touch. They can learn more at the Gatorology workshop.
Nestled among the trees of Fripp Island, the nature center offers a variety of programming options.
Picnic The Art of the Crafting memorable outdoor dining experiences
By Robin Howard
The word “picnic” combines two French words: piquer (to peck or pick) and nique (something small or nothing at all).
In the 18th century, picnics were a favorite pastime of the wealthy. Through the years, the working class adopted the tradition as a way to spend time in the countryside with friends.
Picnics eventually found their way into art and literature as backdrops of perfect contentment. In the children’s book “Wind in the Willows,” when Ratty tells Mole what’s in the picnic hamper for their lunch that afternoon, Mole becomes intoxicated with anticipation. He notices the sparkle of light on the river, trails his paw in the water and drifts into daydreams. What could be better?
Today, picnicking is an art form with specialized gear, outdoor games and plenty of lovely public locations. The first step in creating a picnic Mole would approve of is choosing the right spot.
Location, Location, Location
Whether planning a romantic rendezvous or a family gathering, the setting can significantly enhance your experience. Parks are a classic choice, offering open spaces, trees for shade, and, often, amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. Picnicking at a beach or lake also promises a magical experience, but don’t be afraid to be creative: Rooftops, woodland clearings and backyards will also do the trick.
Essential Picnic Gear
To excel in the art of the picnic, the right gear makes the experience more elegant.
You’ll want a picnic basket or hamper, a blanket, a cooler bag and reusable plates, cups, glasses, cutlery and napkins. A Swiss Army Knife always comes in handy, and don’t forget a trash bag.
Planning the Picnic Menu
The heart of any picnic is the food. Here are some ideas for a picnic-perfect menu:
Fresh salads. Prepare vibrant salads with fresh greens, colorful vegetables and dressings. Consider classics like Caesar salad, or create your own signature salad.
Sandwiches and wraps. Sandwiches are a picnic staple. Create an assortment of sandwiches with different fillings, from classic ham and cheese to vegetarian options such as caprese or roasted veggie wraps.
Charcuterie platter. A well-curated charcuterie platter is a picnic indulgence. Include an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, crackers and condiments.
Fruit platter or fruit salad. A platter of fresh, juicy fruits—such as watermelon, berries and grapes—is perfect for a summer picnic. Quiches. Quiches are versatile, as they can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature. Fill them with ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, ham and cheese.
Dips and chips. Create a variety of dips—hummus, guacamole, tzatziki—and serve them with an assortment of chips or fresh-cut vegetables.
Desserts. Finish your picnic on a sweet note with brownies, fruit tarts or cookies.
Beverages. Besides water, consider bringing sparkling water, lemonade, iced tea or another favorite drink.
Enhancing the Experience
The art of the picnic is not just about the food; it’s about creating an experience.
Consider bringing games, playing cards, a Frisbee to toss or a book for relaxed reading, depending on your location and group. If you’re in a natural setting, explore the surroundings, whether hiking, birdwatching or simply taking a leisurely walk.
By Jodi Helmer
Ways to Turn Your Garden Into a Pollinator Paradise
Sure, asters, salvia, coneflowers and lavender add curb appeal, but a garden full of colorful, nectar-producing flowers also attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Pollinators are critical to the ecosystem: More than 85% of flowering plants— including two-thirds of our food crops from almonds and apples to pumpkins and zucchini—depend on pollination to reproduce.
Despite the essential role of pollinators, their populations are at risk—and gardeners are taking action. Increased awareness about the importance of protecting pollinators has led more gardeners to transform their landscapes into pollinator havens.
Here are nine ways to turn your yard into a pollinator paradise.
Choosing plants with a greater diversity of colors, shapes and scents in your garden will help attract different kinds of pollinators.
Plant patches of flowers. A diversified landscape is important, but it’s also a good idea to group several of the same flowers in one area of the garden. It’s easier for pollinators to spot nectar-rich blooms when there are larger masses of flowers.
Consider creating several larger clumps of flowers rather than scattering single plants around the landscape to make it easier for pollinators to see your garden as an abundant food source.
Choose native plants. Native plants are adapted to certain geographic regions and thrive in those specific climates. Cardinal flower, blazing star, phlox, sweet pepperbush and verbena are among the native pollinator plants recommended for local gardens by the South Carolina Wildlife Federation.
Think beyond summer. A lush garden in the spring and summer is great, but pollinators need food all year. Look for
Unlike non-native species, which might not have enough nectar or pollen to support pollinators, native plants provide the perfect resources for bees, butterflies and other pollinators to thrive.
Diversify your landscape. Different pollinators are attracted to different flowers: Bees are attracted to white and blue flowers; hummingbirds prefer orange and red tubular-shaped flowers; and bats like green and purple flowers with a strong fragrance.
species that provide continual blooms during all four seasons.
In South Carolina, sneezeweed, swamp sunflower and spotted beebalm bloom through the fall, and the seed heads on plants like black-eyed Susan, purple coneflower and coreopsis provide food for birds. Not a green thumb? Ask your local nursery professional for advice.
Offer water. Pollinators need fresh water. A shallow dish or birdbath are great options—but be sure to place some halfsubmerged stones in the water to give insect pollinators a place to perch while they quench their thirst; if the water is too deep, pollinators will drown.
Grow less grass. Replacing some of your lawn with a garden or wildflower meadow—or over-seeding with clover— can boost pollinator food supply.
Replacing the lawn with native plants also requires less maintenance because it never needs to be mowed. If your homeowners association or city code requires you to have a manicured lawn, let clover go to flower before mowing; it’s one small action that can help pollinators.
Use less mulch. Mulch is ideal for controlling weeds and retaining moisture, but it can prevent certain bee species from
Choosing plants with a greater diversity of colors, shapes and scents in your garden will help attract different kinds of pollinators.
finding suitable nesting spots. Several native bee species nest in the ground and need access to bare soil to dig nests and raise their babies. Leaving some “mulchfree” zones in the garden can ensure these bees will call your yard home.
In areas of the garden covered in mulch, skip cedar mulch because it can be toxic to some bees.
Provide nesting spots. Other pollinators, including birds, beetles and wood-nesting bees, prefer to build their nests in dead tree trunks—called snags—or small
stacks of twigs. Adding these features to your garden gives pollinators suitable places to nest and reproduce.
Bee hotels are another option. You can make these small structures, which offer a series of nesting spots, or purchase one online and watch pollinators move in.
Embrace organic pest control.
Insecticides were designed to kill insects— and that includes pollinators. Using beneficial insects or other natural and organic pest-control methods helps keep pollinators safe.
If you must spray, choose an organic product and only apply it to infested plants. Selective spraying—rather than treating the entire garden—helps limit the amount of chemicals used and reduces the impact on pollinators.
Taking a few small steps to make your garden more welcoming for bees, butterflies and birds can greatly impact pollinator populations.
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