July 2020

magazine Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com

Contributing Photographers Erin Daniel Fred Salley

Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com

Contributing Writers Circle Park Behavioral Health Mark W. Buyck, III Ashley Elvington Rebecca Giese Heather Leisy Bethany Ritter Allie Roark Doug Smith John Sweeney Donna Tracy

Office Manager Tiffany Skipper jtskipp35@gmail.com Advertising Executives Julie C. Tyler juliectyler@yahoo.com Creative Design Tuesday Taylor Ashley Rogers

Serving Florence, Hartsville, Darlington, Marion, Mullins, Lake City and the surrounding areas 2011-B Second Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29501 FIND US ON FACEBOOK

For advertising rates, call 843-687-4236.

COVER CONCEPT The first half of 2020 had us grow appreciation for doing so many things, including seeing a live performance by one of our favorite musicians!

Thankfully, in celebration of Lifetime Hearing Service’s 20 year anniversary, David Phelps will be performing at the Palmetto Street Church of God on July 24th and 25th.

This is an event you don’t want to miss!

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 56

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JULY 2020 BUSINESS 12 Altman Farm & Mill 14 Greater Florence Chamber Member of the Month: The Traces Golf Club 16 Lydia's Inspirational Gourmet Cookies 18 Beaus & Belles 20 Willcox, Buyck & Williams, PA:

The History of Free Public Education in SC

22 John Sweeney's Keeping Time: Jack Holt - Family, Faith & Success

24 The Fudge Shoppe of Marion 26 Catching Up With The Trent Hill Center 28 June 2020 Calendar 30 Addie's Baby Paint & Sip Studio 32 Leadership Florence: Leading By Feeding

HEALTH + WELLNESS 34 HopeHealth: Back to a New Normal 36 Circle Park Behavioral Health:

Substance Use Disorders in the Wake of Covid-19 38 Around Town: Florence Chamber Golf Classic

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LIFESTYLE 40 Rebecca's Corner: Sparkling 4th of July Cake 42 Allie Roark: A Journey to Find My Mr. Right 44 National French Fry Day 46 Adopting a Pet During the Pandemic

HOME 48 Doug the FoodGuy: Delivering Goodies 50 Tips to Planning a Garden

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52 Drink of the Month: Raspberry & Lemon Rosé Sparkler

BUSINESS

story by Ashley Elvington / photography by Erin Daniel

There are so many beautiful places to find in the endless countryside of South Carolina. In fact, one of them can be found in the small town of Evergreen.

Will & Tiffany Altman If you’ve ever met Will Altman, you’d remember. He’s always “danced to the beat of his own drum” as some would say, and he tends to think outside the box. Will grew up around his family’s business, Altman Tractor Company, and the family farm where they’ve always grown hay and soy beans.

In 2011, he had the idea to do his own farming, but he wanted to do it a little differently. He wanted to raise heritage pork, and his late grandfather, Billy Altman, let him use a portion of the farm.

Heritage breeds are those that our ancestors used before the industrial revolution. The animals aren’t genetically modified which ultimately produces more flavorful meat. Farmers like Will help keep these breeds from going extinct by raising them. Will sold the heritage pork to restaurants and farmer’s markets around the Charleston area and quickly developed a passion for making great food accessible.

By November 2016, Will was married to his sweetheart Tiffany, an architect from Orangeburg, South Carolina. Together, they worked hard to build a life as well as a business on Altman Farm.

Will is always researching and learning about food production, and after seeing an ad about a mill for sale on Craigslist three years ago, he decided to purchase it as an addition to the farm and the rest is history. He started out using heirloom corn grown by other farmers, but now the farm produces most of the corn itself. (Heirloom is the equivalent of heritage but in regards to vegetables.)

Will pictured with his granddad Billy (left) and his dad, Stan (right) 12 12

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Altman Farm currently grows eight different types of corn, as well as Sea Island red peas and white rice peas, both of which are also heirloom crops. Tiffany shares, “He truly has a passion for

July 2020 September 2019

Purchase Altman Farm products weekly at the City Center Farmers Market in Florence.

food, from start to finish. The mill was just another way to produce great food.” While Will handles sales and all things farm-related, Tiffany designs all of the packaging and marketing materials.

The couple also shares recipes on their website.

“Will comes up with all of the recipes. We taste test so many versions of all of our products before sharing to get the best ratio of ingredients and to make sure the corn itself is highlighted.” They also sell mixes and batters. On their website, you can purchase items such as fish fry mix, hush puppy mix, grits mix, cornbread mix, pancake mix, and waffle mix. You can also find a list of businesses that sell their products which includes the City Center Farmers Market in Florence. Tiffany admits the cornbread is their favorite. “Will wanted to make a great cornbread mix that was easy for anyone to make. We call it a ‘quickie bag’ – this means one bag equals one pan of cornbread. All you do is add milk or water, butter, and an egg. Our pancake and waffle mix is done the same way.” They are working on new products that are going to be kept top secret for now; however, you can follow them on social media to stay updated.

A LT M A N F A R M

SAUSAGE CHEDDER CORNBREAD Ingredients: Altman Farm Cornbread Mix 1/2 Pound cooked ground sausage 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese

Directions: Follow the recipe on our “quickie bag” of Cornbread Mix. Before you bake, fold in the 1/2 pound of cooked ground sausage and cup of sharp cheddar cheese. You can do it as muffins to make a great “on the go” breakfast or snack.

Tip: Don’t be scared try other add ins to the basic recipe on the bag. We’ve done a sweet potato version and one with broccoli!

Altman Farm is located at 6122 Pamplico Highway in Florence.

For more info, please call 843-992-6867, email Will at will@altmanfarm.com, or vist their website at www.altmanfarm.com.

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BUSINESS

Jon Bowman, General Manager (left) DJ Reynolds, Owner (right)

FLORENCE CHAMBER MEMBER OF THE MONTH

THE TRACES GOLF CLUB A Hole-in-One Kind of Business story by Ashley Elvington DJ Reynolds grew up playing sports such as football and baseball. He played golf every now and then, but never took the sport seriously. Things changed in 2005 when his father, Dathon Reynolds, took over Governor’s Run Golf Club in Lamar, South Carolina. With his father fully invested in the business, DJ took an interest in the sport, learning the ins and outs of the golf industry. One of the greatest lessons for him, however, was learning just how challenging the game of golf can be. Fifteen years later, DJ is still learning new things about this business daily.

DJ, along with his father, now owns Traces Golf Club in Florence. Traces began as an 18-hole course back in the early 1990s. Around 1998, the previous owners added the third nine holes. Today, there is a total of 120 acres of golf course. DJ shares, “We have a great membership here that includes people from all over the Pee Dee area. The Pro Shop is filled with all of the latest and greatest gear, featuring golf clubs, balls, shoes, clothes, hats…we have it all.” The club has come a long way in almost 30 years of business. “We average over 30,000 rounds and our conveniently located near I-95 and I-20 allowing easy access from all over. From tree removal to bunker renovations, the course has definitely changed over the years.”

Thanks to COVID-19, Traces had to cancel a majority of its spring golf tournaments. Now that businesses are starting to re-open and things are adjusting to the new normal, the staff is playing catch up. “We have a few junior events coming in the next few weeks. We just had the Florence Chamber of Commerce last week and a Members Scramble event as well.” This month, the club will begin the process of aerification. DJ explains, “Aeration is the process by which holes are put in the greens to allow for air to be able to get into the soil beneath the green. Aeration is needed when

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July 2020 September 2019

the soil beneath the green becomes compacted.

Compacted green doesn’t allow the grassroots to breathe properly and the process helps remove thatch from the greens. We do one big aeration process per year on our greens.”

Remember how DJ is still learning about the game and how challenging it can be? Should he happen to forget, all he has to do is step out onto the course and head to #9 Meadows, what he claims to be the toughest hole at Traces. “The 9th hole is long, narrow, and intimidating. The hole is over 422 yards and features a big pond that players have to navigate for the second shot. Many players have had a great round ruined by their ball flying in the pond on #9 Meadows.”

In addition to the course and Pro Shop, Traces also has a restaurant, Shankers’ Grill. “Shankers’ grill is fully stocked with beverages, snacks, sandwiches, and golfers exaggerating about how far they hit the ball 20 years ago!” Two items golfers love getting from Shankers’ are the egg salad and chicken salad sandwiches, made in house by Christine Vought, who oversees the Grill. DJ adds, “Her beer and hot dog specials also keep the golfers coming back for more!”

This year brought many unexpected changes for the world, especially for business owners. However, DJ is grateful for those who help make Traces such a success. “It all starts with our grounds crew, which is led by Kameron Lutcken. His staff ensures great playing conditions for all of our customers. The golf side features the inside, the shop staff, and a very efficient cart staff. We are very fortunate at Traces to have a wonderful staff.”

The Traces Golf Club and Shankers’ Grille is located at 4322 Southborough Road in Florence, SC. To learn more, call (843)662-7775.

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BUSINESS

Wanda Green of Lydia's Inspirational Gourmet Cookies PAY I N G I T F O RWA R D

Wanda Green is a woman of many talents. Born and raised in Sumter, South Carolina, by Mr. Lewis Green Sr. and Mrs. Mildred Albert Green, she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from Morris College in 1990 and her master’s degree in management and leadership from Webster University in 2012. Wanda is a retired social worker, a profession she held for 18 years. “I have always loved helping, encouraging, and inspiring those who I come in contact with.” While she is single and patiently waiting for her Boaz, Wanda’s heart currently belongs to her business, Lydia’s Inspirational Gourmet Cookies, LLC.

It was 1995 when Wanda realized she had grown tired of participating in the hustle and bustle of present shopping each Christmas. Instead, she decided to start making cookies to share with family and friends. “Cookies are my favorite snack, so this was my way of showing others how much I appreciated them at least once per year.” While working at DHEC in Sumter as a medical social worker, a co-worker named Doris mentioned to Wanda that she should consider selling the cookies. They were delicious, and Doris was confident people would 16 16

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story by Ashley Elvington

pay for them. Wanda dismissed the thought, as she just wanted to give them away at the time. However, this would change 25 years later in 2020.

This year, Wanda decided to establish her own cookie business, naming it after an inspirational woman from the Bible. “The name Lydia is taken from Acts 16:14. She was a woman who lived in the city of Thyatira. She was a businesswoman and a seller of purple textiles. She worshipped the Lord and had the spirit of hospitality; therefore when Paul and Silas traveled to her town to share the good news of Jesus, she opened her doors to them.” Wanda’s spirit is much like Lydia’s, so it is fitting she chose to name her business after her. In addition to baking and social work, Wanda has also spent time as a missionary. This has involved traveling throughout North and South Carolina, as well as Georgia. Wanda’s main role was to take people to their medical appointments, something that certainly wasn’t cheap. “The cost of commercial insurance and gas were well over $5,000 per year. Unfortunately, I began to have difficulties paying my rent after returning my tithes and offering

to local Seventh-Day Adventist Church.” Wanda decided that after years of helping others, it was time she seek help for herself. She reached out to Lighthouse Ministries in Florence, South Carolina.

After speaking with a lady named Ms. Brown who set up an appointment for her to be interviewed by a staff member, Wanda was approved for $150 to assist with her rental payment. “They sent the check directly to my landlord! I am forever grateful.”

Embodying the spirit of Lydia, Wanda decided to show Lighthouse Ministries just how grateful she truly was. With the help of the company she works for part-time, she was able to sponsor a family in need for Christmas where they gave clothing, shoes, toys, and household items. “I also offered my resume writing skills for free to help the clients of Lighthouse Ministries obtain employment.” This year, Wanda paid it forward to the ministry yet again by donating $150 back to help someone else in need.

Wanda is prepping for summertime and the many cute bathing suits offered in stores, so her current favorite cookie to make is her Sugar-Free Pecan Shortbread. Other flavors she offers are Peanut Butter Surprise, Lemon Gourmet, Incredible Oatmeal Coconut Delight, Peppermint Graham Cracker, Crisp Ginger Snaps, and Wonderful Windmill. Not only do you get some delicious treats when you buy from Wanda, but you also get an inspirational thought in the packaging, a blessing Wanda wants to give to each customer. Wanda also shares weekly inspirational thoughts on her YouTube channel, Lydia’s Inspirational Gourmet Cookies.

If you are interested in ordering from Wanda, visit www.lydiasinspirationalcookies.com or call 843-800-1595.

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BUSINESS

Stylish Looks at Affordable Prices

owners, Lauri Dunn-Trzebiatowski and Alexis Graves

story by Rebecca Giese styled product photography by Erin Daniel

Back in January of this year, the mother-daughter duo, Alexis and Lauri, decided to open an online clothing boutique, Beaus and Belles. After only several months in the online market space, they decided to take the plunge and open a brick and mortar location.

Originally from the Beaufort area, the pair wanted to be close to Florence, where Lauri is currently living and wanted an area with a Mainstreet USA atmosphere they were craving, so they started looking for a place that fit their needs. And that is when they stumbled upon the current location for their store, now open, in Hartsville! They fell in love with Hartsville's welcoming atmosphere and people. When opening the store, they reached out to friends asking what they love or hate about boutiques. The critical feedback they received is that people assume boutiques are expensive and are not size-inclusive. Beaus and Belles strive to source affordable, quality pieces from sizes small to 3X. They also make it a priority to source their garments, accessories, and gifts from USA manufacturers.

We sat down with Lauri to give us insight into summer styles for 2020, and the keyword is comfort. Everyone is grabbing tee shirt dresses and jumpers, which take minutes to style while being very comfortable and still looking put together. Cozy wearables like soft tee shirts and quality denim with some stretch are also all the rage. Beaus and Belles have a line of graphic tees custommade for them on the ultra-soft, preshrunk Bella Canvas tee shirts. And they haven't forgotten about the guys, later this summer Beaus and Belles plan to launch a men's collection of casual wear!

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CASUAL OUTFIT

NIGHT OUT OUTFIT

The Jade Tank is flowy and extremely comfortable polyester-spandex blend making it the perfect top for a day around the house, by the pool or out running errands. They are paired with Kancan frayed denim shorts. Kancan shorts have soft silk pockets and stretch to make them the most comfortable denim shorts you will own. Finish the look with a pair of cheetah sandals that you can throw on as you walk out the door. Beaus and Belles have this style of shoe in red, olive, and cheetah print.

The Izzy Striped Tee Shirt Dress is perfect for a night out to dinner or a date night. Currently available in blue, green, and pink, this soft polyester-spandex blend dress is a must. The bow ties in the front elevate the tee shirt dress, creating a flattering silhouette. Add a little sparkle with a pair of layered necklaces and some sandals made of vegan leather.

Are you excited about Beaus and Belles?

Follow them on Facebook & Instagram @beausandbellesboutiquesc, visit them online at bbboutiquesc.com and at their store at 115 5th St, Suite 101 in Hartsville, open Tue-Sun.

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BUSINESS

The History of Free Public Education IN SOUTH CAROLINA story by Mark W. Buyck, III

Henry Timrod

In 1779, South Carolina Lt. Governor William Bull reported “We have a provincial free school paid by the public… but their salaries are insufficient to engage and retain fit men.” While our state has made great strides toward improving the educational attainment of its citizens in recent decades, the fact remains that the State of South Carolina has an indistinguishable history of taxsupported public-school systems. A quick look back to the past may help explain some of the issues we still face today.

While today every child in South Carolina, regardless of race, income, or ability, is entitled to a free, public K-12 education, that has not been the case for the majority of the states’ history. South Carolina’s earliest English settlers considered education a private concern and the responsibility of each family. Public supported education was initially available only to orphans and paupers and then only on a limited basis.

Lt. Governor Bull was operating an orphan and pauper school when he penned the quote above. This early attitude towards public education is in direct contrast to other colonies.

The Puritans who settled in Massachusetts opened their first public school in 1635 and by 1647, towns with more than 50 people were

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required by law to establish tax-supported school systems.

Charlestown was first settled in 1670 and the first African slaves arrived from Barbados the following year. In 1701, the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts opened its first school in South Carolina. The goal of the Society was to convert enslaved Blacks and Native Americans to Christianity.

Many slave owners believed it was in their best interest to provide slaves an education. This was tempered somewhat following the 1739 Stono Rebellion, a slave rebellion southwest of Charleston. In response in 1740, the South Carolina Legislature passed legislation which among other things prohibited slaves from learning to write.

The Antebellum history of South Carolina is also characterized by a sharp divide between the Upcountry and Lowcountry. The plantation

Henry Timrod School in Timrod Park

owners on the South Carolina coast were some of the wealthiest families in the United States. They were also some of the largest slave owners. The South Carolina interior was settled after the Lowcountry principally by Scots-Irish from Pennsylvania and Virginia. They were mainly subsistence farmers and the vast majority did not own slaves. Most harbored an attitude that it was more important for their children to be in the fields than in a schoolhouse.

In the 1811 Bill to Establish Free Schools Throughout the State, the legislature sought to place at least one public school in each of the state’s 44 counties. While this bill was supported by many Lowcountry aristocrats who believed education was vital to a democratic society, the reception from Upcountry farmers was cool. The law gave first preference for attendance to the poor. Although the new schools were in theory opened to all white children in the state, their reputation as “pauper” schools doomed this early attempt at free public education.

Many of the schools were mismanaged and funds misappropriated. It is estimated that by 1847, only 1 in 50 South Carolina white school-age children attended the state’s free public schools. The middle and upper classes continued to educate their children privately and in private and churchaffiliated schools. The Henry Timrod Schoolhouse now in Timrod Park is an example. Colonel William Cannon built the one-room schoolhouse on his farm in Mars Bluff for the education of his children and those of other nearby planters. It was not unusual for wealthier upstate students to attend schools

and board in Charleston. Wealthier families would often send their children to private schools in the northeast as well as Europe. All four of the South Carolina signers of the Declaration of Independence had studied at one time in England. A noted South Carolina historian, David Duncan Wallace, described the state of education in South Carolina during the Antebellum period in this manner: "The distinction must always be maintained between the often-splendid men and women of the private, church, or fraternal order in society-owned schools and the educational ‘riff-raff’ who are taught in the ‘pauper’ schools."

It was only in the aftermath of the Civil War did South Carolina make its first attempt to educate “all the children of all the people without regard to race or color.” This occurred during the 1868 State Constitutional Convention which I will address in a future installment.

"While today every child in South Carolina, regardless of race, income, or ability, is entitled to a free, public k-12 education, that has not been the case for the majority of the states' history."

248 West Evans Street | Florence, SC | 843.662.3258 2050 Corporate Centre’ Drive, Suite 230 Myrtle Beach, SC | 843.650.6777

Business Law, Litigation, Real Estate, and Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys July 2020

Mark W. Buyck, III

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BUSINESS: KEEPING TIME, A MONTHLY FEATURE story by John Sweeney

Keeping Time, conversations in time management with community difference makers, is an interview series

Jack Holt

with community leaders from a variety of fields discussing their day-by-day pursuit of professional success, focusing specifically on how they manage their time. You can hear the full 30-minute interviews on the “Keeping Time Podcast,” available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Family, Faith, and Success

If you think your workday is packed, try walking in the shoes of Jack Holt.

Catching up with the 60-year-old entrepreneur isn’t easy, and it’s no wonder. Holt owns and manages several commercial properties, operates three (soon to be four) restaurants, has his own accounting firm, and is already planning more ventures in the near future.

With that kind of schedule, you won’t find much of the traditional “work-life balance.” That’s because Holt’s wife and their five children are very much involved in the running of the ever-expanding local business empire.

In fact, the Holt family is really the reason the Holt brand got started.

“I enjoy work, so I work a good bit,” Holt, who early on was just managing his accounting business. “And I wanted my children to work with me in something.”

That desire led to a small video rental operation in Pamplico, where the family was living. As an added draw, they served sub sandwiches at the shop, too. Over time, the video business began to fade, but the sandwich business grew. Eventually, the first Jack’s Place restaurant was born.

But it didn’t stop there.

“We got the opportunity after that to build a commercial strip right behind Ruby Tuesdays on American Drive in Florence and put a Jack’s Place there,” Holt said. “Four, five years later, we built the commercial strip where the Civic Center is… on Woody Jones Boulevard.”

Today, that commercial space is home to 1720 Burger Bar, whose success led to Holt Bros. BBQ on West Evans St., and is leading to the soon to be opened Holt Bros. Express near the convergence of Hwy 52, S. Governor Williams Hwy and Main Street in Darlington.

Believe it or not, Holt makes the rounds to almost all of his businesses nearly every day, a cycle he is only able to maintain because of a schedule that centers around his faith, family, and the willingness

Listen to the Keeping Time Podcast at sweeneymediaandconsulting.com to learn about Jack Holt’s incredibly packed and fascinating day, how he manages it, how faith plays an important role in his success, and how some business failures have led him to even more business success.

The entire conversation can be found on the Keeping Time Podcast, available at www.sweeneymediaandconsulting.com.

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BUSINESS

the fudge shoppe of marion

Wayne & Barbara Mathews are living the sweet life in Marion Wayne Mathews was born in Texas in 1942 and while he didn’t know it at the time, he had a wonderfully “sweet” life ahead of him. After spending time in the US Marines and Navy during the mid-1960s, Wayne graduated from West Texas State (now known as West Texas A&M) and moved to Dallas where he raised two sons. It was Dallas where Wayne would eventually meet his lovely wife, Barbara.

Barbara was born in North Carolina in 1953 and raised a daughter and son in Durham. A job opportunity moved the family to Florida in 1989, while her daughter stayed in North Carolina to attend UNC Chapel Hill. During her 10 years with the company she was working for, Barbara’s position changed three times, eventually landing as Account Executive. This increased her travel time from 75% to 99%. After divorced in 1999, Barbara began to travel for extensive periods of time to Dallas. Eventually, her path crossed Wayne’s and the rest is history. She adds, “From that day forward, we have not been apart.” Barbara accepted a new job in Dallas and left Florida. She and Wayne lived on a 60-acre ranch in Kerens, Texas, but they visited their children and grandchildren on the East Coast whenever they had the opportunity. “We knew every place to eat on I-20 from Texas to North Carolina! From door to door, it was about 1,200 miles one way. We made these trips three to five times a year for 15 years.”

After spending so much of their lives traveling, Barbara and Wayne considered moving once Barbara retired. “We looked in Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, and later South Carolina. We just didn’t feel a connection to anywhere.”

While in South Carolina, the couple visited Pawley’s Island,

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story by Ashley Elvington

North Charleston, Summerville, and Longs. But it was a little town by the name of Marion that captured their hearts. Barbara shares, “I had been through Marion many years ago when I was a teen going to Myrtle Beach and Ocean Drive. I always thought it was such a neat little historic town.” The couple arrived at the second house they were viewing that was for sale and got as far as the living room. “We looked at each other and said, ‘This is it.’ Call it fate.” At the end of 2018, Barbara retired to play golf with her best friend Wayne, to read a book a week, to work in her gardens, and to relish the fact that she no longer had to deal with conference calls. Life in Marion was sweet; however, it was about to get even sweeter.

In December 2019, Barbara and Wayne decided to open a fudge shop in Marion. “We have always wanted to have a little business that we could both be working in, we just didn’t know what type of business. We were talking about what Marion needed downtown and it just came to me – fudge! I wanted to have a place where any person of any age could walk through the doors and be taken back to their childhood with the sights of antique items sitting around, cute barnyard pictures, and the smell of chocolate fudge in the air.” After doing some research about suppliers and starting a company, filing legal documents, creating the logo, and printing materials and packaging, Barbara and Wayne got started in their kitchen at home, cutting and packaging fudge for Marion's Chili Cook-Off, Marion Farmer’s Market, and a pop-up Valentine’s shop at the local café, Ground Out. “The response was overwhelming from the community! We felt like we had something that Marion residents were looking for. No longer did you have to go to the beach for fudge.” In six months, Barbara and Wayne had set up a business, purchased all of the equipment to prepare and cook the fudge, purchased the building their shop is in, painted and remodeled, installed a kitchen, and received a permit from DHEC to

open. They officially opened on June 12th and the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on June 25th.“Being a part of the Marion community and having a place for people to come for friendships and quality prodsucts is one of our favorite parts of owning this business. We enjoy being busy and meeting new people.”

Barbara and Wayne have fresh homemade fudge in a variety of flavors, including several reduced sugar flavors. “We will always have the standards like chocolate, chocolate pecan, maple walnut, chocolate peanut butter, rocky road, etc. We try to have at least 20 different flavors on hand at any time.” If you’re looking for a flavor to try, be sure to ask Wayne about the coconut custard – it’s his favorite! They thought about including fudge that is specific to Marion and are considering having a contest for citizens to come up with a flavor. They also carry two types of trail mix, Power Up and Tropical, which are healthy and salt-free.

They have plans to offer soft-serve ice cream and gourmet flavored popcorn in the not too distant future.

While they may change their mind about the flavors they offer in the future, one thing is for certain – Marion was and forever will remain to be a great choice they made. “Collectively, Wayne and I have over 60 years of business knowledge and zero years in making fudge, but business is business with different products. We have applied the principles... If you have a clean, inviting environment with friendly people to greet you and an excellent product for a reasonable price, they will come.

The people of Marion have welcomed us with open arms since the day we moved here.

Marion fits us. We have lived in the big hustle bustle cities before and don't care for them.

We prefer the slower pace of a small town.”

The Fudge Shoppe is located at 610 Main Street in Marion, SC. To learn more, please email Barbara at fudgeinmarion@gmail.com.

If you are traveling from another state or just live in the area, stop by their store.

They have a giant map of the US for customers to pin their hometown.

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BUSINESS

story by Ashley Elvington

Catching Up With In celebration of The Trent Hill Center's second anniversary, we had the pleasure to sit down with founder and CEO Scottie Hill, to talk about the journey thus far and what the future holds for The Trent Hill Center.

Hill

What was the goal of establishing The Trent Hill Center?

How does The THC strive to go above and beyond?

We saw a need for safe, high-quality foster care placement. The Pee Dee area still has a limited number of licensed foster care homes that are actively taking children. And many of those homes are not accepting teens or individuals that require special care. There needed to be a place for children ages 13-17 to live and thrive after dealing with obstacles ranging from abuse to neglect. Having a place like The Trent Hill Center is needed to keep the children closer to home, not moved to a different county with an available home. Having a local option is essential for possible family unification and smooth transiting for the child.

The Trent Hill Center tries its best to have children complete their education at their school instead of uprooting them to not only a new living situation but a new school, teachers, and peers. The vision of The Trent Hill Center is to give the children as normal a life as possible. The teens have chore lists and get an allowance to spend on maybe a new pair of shoes or a video game.

The teens can be teens.

A big piece of The Trent Hill Center is the mental health counseling the children receive. There is a counselor on-site to meet with them and their families (when appropriate). Counseling is crucial for the development of the children and increases the possibility of successful unification.

How did The THC come to its current location?

A little over two years ago, while The Trent Hill Center was still just an idea, House of Hope in Florence was given the property and heard about the potential children's home. They let us rent the property for a dollar a month while figuring all the regulations, meeting with architects, fire departments, and so on. In 2018, with the community's help, funds were raised in just four weeks to purchase the property.

The location also is perfect for serving the Darlington county area and creating normalcy for the children; it seems like a standard house on a typical street.

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After two years, what are the goals moving forward?

An immediate goal is to reach the gold standard by completing the accreditation process. Also, looking at the growth of the team. The Trent Hill Center's mental health counseling continues to grow, now supporting the community with children and family counseling.

How can people learn more or support The THC? Check The Trent Hill Center out on Facebook or visit www.trenthillcenter.org/

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JULY 2020 CALENDAR of EVENTS sunday

monday

tuesday

wednesday

1

2

Outdoor Trivia (every Wed.) Seminar Brewing, Florence

5

6

Bikini Day

12

7

13

National Simplicity Day

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Get Out of the Dog House

FMU Basketball Camp begins

15

21

Tax Day

Personal Chef Day

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Hot Dog Day

FMU Basketball Camp begins

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Waterpark Day

Cow Appreciation Day

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Spring Fling begins River Neck Acres, Florence

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Freezer Pop Day

Tape Measure Day

French Fry Day

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Parent’s Day

Macaroni Day

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Ice Cream Day

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Bean Bar Grand Opening Florence

thursday

Gorgeous Grandma Day

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Lipstick Day

Father-in-Law Day

Send in your events to heather@vipmagsc.com! friday

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saturday

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Carnival (until July 12th) Florence Center, Florence

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Happy Independence Day!

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Addie's Baby Classes resume Downtown Florence

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5k/10k Run for the Heroes Florence

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Food Truck Rodeo (until 19th) Florence Center, Florence

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Bike Fest Black Jack HD, Florence

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David Phelps in Concert PSCOG, Florence

David Phelps in Concert PSCOG, Florence

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Avocado Day

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BUSINESS

BUSINESS AS "NOT SO" USUAL story by Heather Page It’s no secret that many businesses have faced insurmountable obstacles over the last several months.

The fear was always “Will I be able to get through this and continue business-as-usual once over?” A question that rings close to home for Winter Moore, artist, and owner of Addie’s Baby Paint & Sip Studio in downtown Florence.

However, she became extra creative with how she would maintain a consistent audience, something we could all learn from.

Born and raised in Florence, South Carolina, Winter was a Wilson High School student that went on to graduate from South Carolina State University. Art was always in the forefront of her life. Even as young as 6 years old, Winter remembers being interested in art. It was only a starting point as she continued to advance her skills by taking multiple art programs

which eventually led to a Graphic Design and a Fine Arts degree.

In 2013, Winter took it one step further and opened Addie’s Baby Paint. “I wanted to do something I was passionate about, but at my own pace. I wanted to take control of my career by creating my path with my own profitable business model,” she explains. In addition to becoming her own boss in a passion led career, Winter was striving to make her mother and family proud - those that she considers her biggest supporters.

And proud they are! Even during a pandemic that has crippled the entire world, Winter has found a way to progress. “We transitioned to a virtual model for the studio, offering step-by-step lessons for free every Wednesday. We host those live on our Facebook business page,” she says. The classes include kid-specific art pieces, ladies' nights, and many others. Winter also offered paid lessons through Zoom Meetings and sold matching DIY kits for each lesson.

Winter has plans to re-open to the public this July but at a much smaller capacity. Virtual classes will continue along with virtual private parties and the sell of DIY kits. Furthering her reach, Winter will be launching subscription boxes this fall where customers will receive different DIY canvas lessons, mailed to their homes, on a monthly bases.

Not even a world-wide pandemic can slow down this career-driven woman. As Winter discovers her new normalcy, she fully embraces it each step of the way. One obstacle leads to another solution to continue growing her business.

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To find out more about upcoming classes, visit addiesbabystudio.com or their Facebook page, @AddiesBabyPaintWineStudioFlorence. You can also receive notifications by texting the words “VIP Painter” to 31996.

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

BACK TO A NEW NORMAL: A Community Perspective story by Dr. Heather Leisy, Director of Preventive Medicine

The coronavirus, COVID-19, is widespread throughout our community but fortunately it appears social distancing efforts has slowed the peak to a plateau.

We are now in a phase where we are addressing the slow reopening of our state, while understanding that many vulnerable populations may still be affected. As your community health center, HopeHealth is taking steps to support our community during this phase, caring especially for populations most at risk.

Community health centers are a core safety net of providers for society’s most vulnerable people. They are critical partners in achieving population health objectives with collaborating health departments. Like many diseases, COVID-19 most affects those individuals with known health disparities, such as minorities and underserved populations. Within our own communities, HopeHealth has seen a higher positive COVID-19 case rates in minorities: • 18% black • 14.3% Hispanic • 4.3% white These trends are recognized throughout the nation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that, of those hospitalized, 33 percent were black while the community representation is only 18 percent.

Additionally, from New York City’s report of COVID-19related deaths per 100,000 people: • Blacks - 92.3 deaths per 100,000 • Hispanics - 74.3 deaths per 100,000 • Whites - 45.2 deaths per 100,000 • Asians - 34.5 deaths per 100,000 According to the CDC, the reasons behind these disparities in COVID-19 illness can be related to a variety of broad factors that include living conditions, work circumstances, access to care, and underlying health conditions. Now is the best time to get chronic health diseases controlled by following-up with your provider, obtain recommended vaccinations, and take prescribed medications.

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Community health centers like HopeHealth address health conditions and access to care by providing the same services, regardless of insurance and ability to pay, for patients in some of the most rural regions of our nation. In addition, by implementing telehealth clinical visits, HopeHealth has increased this access for our 55,000-plus patients while maintaining social distancing and limiting risk of COVID-19 exposure to patients and staff.

So, how should people – especially vulnerable individuals – approach the reopening of our state?

Cautiously. Continuing to practice prevention hygiene like wearing face masks and hand washing is important.

With reopening of public spaces, businesses have a duty ensure sick employees do not come to work and interact with other employees or customers, and cleaning and disinfection is important. When entering these re-opened areas, continue to take care to: • wear a mask • space yourself from others • avoid group gatherings whenever possible • be aware when handling frequently touched surfaces, like handles and switches • don’t touch your face • wash your hands or use hand sanitizer

These same practices should be used when exchanging objects – such as pens, money, etc. with others.

As careful as you may be, if you do become sick, seek medical attention early. Call your provider’s office to discuss how you can access care without exposing others; you may be able to use telehealth to see your provider without having to leave your home. To learn more about telehealth, visit hope-health.org/televisit

360 NORTH IRBY ST. FLORENCE 843.667.9414 | HOPE-HEALTH.ORG Dr. Heather Leisy is the director of preventive medicine at the HopeHealth Medical Plaza in Florence. She provides preventive medical care and researches and implements methods to improve patient outcomes.

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HEALTH + WELLNES

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"The preliminary data is showing that during the period of the pandemic, Florence County has more than doubled the rate of overdoses than in the same period in 2019."

SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS IN THE WAKE OF COVID-19 story provided by Circle Park Behavioral Health Nationally renowned addiction researcher, Dr. Tim K. Brennan, recently referenced the Coronavirus pandemic by saying, “I’m hard-pressed to think of a bigger relapse trigger than what we’re going through now as a country.” The current research data regarding the Opioid crisis in Florence County supports Dr. Brennan’s assessment. As is the case across many regions, the pandemic’s personal devastation in Florence County with people dealing with mental health and substance use disorders compounds barriers and challenges to individuals and the collective wellness of our community.

Pam Williams, Director of Treatment Services at Circle Park Behavioral Health Services, notes that early research into the correlation between the Coronavirus and people receiving substance disorder treatment or experiencing recovery indicates that 78% of people with substance use disorders report increased emotional stress. A high percentage also reported that the loss of communal support put

them at risk for relapse. Social distancing mandates that many treatment services and recovery meetings switch to online platforms. The study shows that a great amount of the participants described these methods as “not the same” as face to face counseling and live recovery groups.

Our state’s authority for substance abuse issues, the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services, reports that in Florence County, the year 2020 has reflected higher overdose rates than in recent years. The preliminary data is showing that during the period of the pandemic, Florence County has more than doubled the rate of overdoses than in the same period in 2019. The increased risk factors of the pandemic including isolation, depression, anxiety, and financial stress on an already vulnerable group of people has clearly begun to adversely impact the overall wellness of our community.

In an effort to facilitate public health and ameliorate issues arising for patients dealing with a substance use disorder and to ensure the safety of its staff and patients, Circle Park Behavioral Health Services initiated telephonic services in late March 2020. On June 15, 2020, the agency resumed in-person treatment services while employing temperature screenings, required facial coverings, sanitizing all common areas, and social distancing with patients and staff. While many

clients prefer in-person treatment services, others appreciated that telephonic services removed barriers such as lack of childcare or transportation. Pam Williams remarked, “There is never an exact formula for delivering the most effective treatment possible, but we do our best to examine all factors and make appropriate adjustments. We will continue to provide telephonic and face to face services as long as they are feasible.”

How and when the current pandemic will end is unclear for the entire community, and that uncertainty exacerbates risk factors for people with a substance use disorder diagnosis. The team at Circle Park Behavioral Health Services wants to encourage all people or loved ones of people dealing with addiction to contact our office to seek assistance.

Williams stated, “We are in this together. Anyone seeking information and options can call us at 843-665-9349 and we will be there for them to support their treatment and recovery.”

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AROUND TOWN: FLORENCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL SPRING GOLF CLASSIC

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Spring Golf Classic

Florence Chamber’s

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The Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Spring Golf Classic 8 Thursday, June 4, 2020 at Traces Golf Club. There were 104 players on 26 teams participating, while enjoying eight great hospitality sponsored holes throughout the course. Each offered food, gifts and beverages. A big thank you to Raldex Hospitality as the overall sponsor and to The Palmetto Mortgage Group for their support. The Florence Chamber would like to thank 5 all of the players and local companies that participated.

The 1st place winners were: Pee Dee Food Service Jack Weatherford John Noble Greg Dolce Chris Count (not pictured) The 2nd Place winners were: First Reliance Bank Paul Saunders Jon Weiss, Jr. Tom Ewart (not pictured) Brice Elvington (not pictured)

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LIFESTYLE

story by Rebecca Giese & photography by Erin Daniel

Are you looking to impress your family and friends at the next backyard barbeque or 4th of July celebration?

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Decorating tips for turning a boxed cake into a confectioner's dream

Sparkling 4th of July Cake • Make your frosting. You can fool most with a box mix for the cake, but canned icing has a fake taste that you can't hide. And don't worry, buttercream is very easy to make.

Rebecca's Buttercream (yield ~3 cups) Ingredients:

1 cup of salted butter 3-4 cups of powdered sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Using a stand or hand mixer cream the butter.

2. Slowly add the powdered sugar and continue mixing.

3. Add the vanilla extract and whip the frosting on high until it is lightened in color and a fluffy, smooth mixture.

• Follow the naked cake trend. Takes half the time and buttercream but still very cute! Once the cake is stacked with frosting between layers, take a piping bag or ziplock bag (using a ziplock, just cut the corner off on one side) and pipe the frosting along the outer seams of the layers.

Then with a clean knife or spatula smooth the icing down while turning the cake to easily get the smooth "lines" without covering the cake, hence naked cake. Then frost the top of the cake and use your piping bag to add icing along the edges. To reach the next level, add fresh fruit to the top of the "fancy" piping. Total time to decorate a three-tier naked cake, less than 30 minutes!

• Add a surprise compartment that will excite all generations with a little cake magic! I love creating this pretty and traditional cake, but when you cut it, there is a party inside! It doesn't look easy, but you do not need a culinary degree, trust me. First, make sure the cake layers are 100% cool. I suggest cooking the cakes the night before assembly.

Take your bottom two layers and cut a circle in the middle of both of them, not too big, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Do not cut into the top layer. Now start stacking, place the bottom layer on the plate or cake-stand, and ice the edges of the center cut out and the top of the layer avoiding the hole. Then add the middle layer, ice the edges, and fill the cavity with small candies and fun sprinkles. Next, add the frosting to the top of the middle layer, still avoiding the hole, and stack the last layer. Then decorate the outside!

On My Radar!

• Christmas in July Sale! Southern'spirations will be having a huge sale on all their Christmas items from last season July 9th - 16th!

• The Screen on the Green! The City of Hartsville and several organizations in the community have sponsored movie nights in Burry Park. The next one is August 1st and the movie is The Incredibles 2. Find out more on their Facebook event page.

• Crepes and waffles at The Midnight Rooster! Since reopening The Midnight Rooster has changed to a DAILY brunch menu that is too good to be true.

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LIFESTYLE

A Journey to Find My Mr. Right story by Allie Roark

It happened. It finally hit me that I am getting married. I can’t tell you how many conversations I’ve had with people about getting engaged and telling them that I was still in shock. Just recently, I got my engagement pictures back, and I just stared at them in awe. As I was scrolling through them, it was a perfect moment of realization that God heard my cries, and He placed the perfect guy to keep me and my heart safe. This was something that I never thought would happen.

On our way to take pictures, I read Ryan some of my old journals and letters that I had written during some of the biggest heartbreaks. As I read these letters, I told Ry that I just wanted to go back in time and hug that girl and tell her to hang tight and that beautiful things were coming. I find beauty in vulnerability especially when it’s with yourself. A lot of times we are guilty of hiding our emotions thinking it’s wrong to be in our “feels”.

However, it’s so healthy to take time to deal and process things no matter how long it takes. It’s okay to be a mess, however, it’s no fun to choose to stay in that mess and let it affect your wellbeing. It’s okay to write out prayers or even write letters to your future husband. I know that sounds super corny, but I always find myself being the most real within my writing.

Our thoughts and feelings are real, but the things that we see on tv and social media not always are. Being the sap that I am — I worried that I expected way too much out of a guy which resulted in settling for less than I deserved. I found a list that I made a few years back of my dream guy. On my list I had: tall, loves Jesus, moneymaker, kind/sensitive, athletic, Mr. Fix It, mature, loves children, has a great relationship

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with parents (his and mine), cuddly/gives words of affirmation, serves, great style, wears a hoodie, reads his Bible, many friends, can cook, drives a truck, and likes to hunt and fish. Ryan and I laughed as I went through and checked off the qualities that Ry had. Unfortunately, I couldn’t check off the box for "wears a hoodie" —but we are working on his style, and hoodies are in his future.

You know, it’s okay to dream. It’s okay to be in your "feels." Also, it is OKAY to be single. I so wish I told myself this a few years back. I think about how much happier I would have been if I took the pressure off of myself and just enjoyed the time I was given. I spent so many days worrying and obsessing over the fact that my fate may result in being alone forever. If someone told me that it was okay to be single, I would seriously roll my eyes and tune them out. It’s hard to come to terms with this especially when it is your heart’s greatest desire. No one wants to be labeled “single” or “alone.” In fact, we make being single sound like such a negative thing, and that it’s the result of something being wrong with you.

We couldn’t be more wrong.

I remember driving in the car and listening to a song by Bethel Music called ‘We Dance’, and I came to terms with the fact that if I were to be single forever that it was okay because God was more than enough for me. I said it out loud, and I truly believed it. That moment was memorable because I finally felt like I was going to be okay. The funny thing is that Ryan slid into my Facebook messages that next week. When living in a small town, you fear that you already know everyone, and you’re going to have to move somewhere else to find someone. Well, this guy was from Hartsville. I knew absolutely nothing about him or his existence except for the fact that I knew his sister. Just another wake-up call that I don’t know everything like I think I do.

Allie & Ryan Now that I am on the other side, I just want to hug every single girl that feels like they are being punished or cause themselves to believe that something is wrong with them. I can promise you that’s not the case. I am constantly reminded of how God saw more than I could see and had plans for me that were bigger than my own. The truth is, the worrying doesn’t magically go away when you get a ring on your left hand. I now have new worries and fears that have replaced the old ones. I am afraid that’s something that we will always battle.

My friend, if you are stuck in a season of feeling less because of your relationship status, give yourself some self-love. Many people would love to switch places due to being in a loveless marriage. Just because you are “married” or “in a relationship” doesn’t guarantee happiness. However, waiting on the Lord’s timing and believing in His plan for you will guarantee so much more than just happiness.

P.S. If you are reading this, but you are not single— I hope to give you a little takeaway as well.

Let’s encourage our brothers and sisters in their single-season instead of making it sound like a bad thing. It’s embarrassing playing twenty questions about why you are not married yet at family gettogethers. We are single and picky for a reason, and that is because we are firm believers in what’s in store. There’s something empowering in being independent for a season, and being single is more than okay.

I’m thankful for the heartbreaks because I would have been settling. If I would have settled, I never would have met my Ry. Yours is out there too!

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LIFESTYLE

National French Fry Day

July 13

How Are French Fries Eaten All Over The World?

Each year on July 13, many people will participate in National French Fry Day by enjoying one of the

many varieties of the classic food. Curls, waffles, crinkle, or wedges; We’ve seen it all! It is no question French Fries are loved by adults and kids in America, but they are actually popular all over the world, with each country putting a unique spin on the crispy classic.

Belgium (The birthplace of the fried potato!): Frietjes

Canada: Poutine

Britain: Chips

Served smothered in brown gravy and cheese curds.

Best enjoyed with a fork!

Served with fried fish.

Chips are traditionally eaten with a sprinkling of malt vinegar and then salt.

Spain: Patatas Bravas

Japan: Furaido Potato

France: Pommes Frites

Served cubed, covered in aioli and spicy tomato sauce.

Served in a bag with flavor packets of powder which are dumped in the bag and shaken up.

The powders come in a variety of flavors including seaweed.

Served thin-cut, crispy and alongside a main course. Although a variety of sauces are available, rémoulade, a sauce with a mayonnaise base, with the addition of pickles, horseradish, curry, anchovies, or other flavorings, is very popular.

Served hot in cardboard cone with a variety of sauces to make them easy to eat as you stroll. Belgian fries are the centerpiece of a meal, not just a side dish.

How do you prefer your fries?

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#NationalFrenchFryDay

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LIFESTYLE

Adopting A Pet

During the Pandemic story by Bethany Ritter

Our daily lives have changed so much over these last few months. Homes have become workplaces and dining room tables have become classrooms. While these changes have brought us all closer, it has also increased stress levels in many households.

With added stress levels getting a new pet may not seem ideal, but with many spending more time at home now may be the best time.

Pets, whether cats, dogs, or the occasional goat, have always been popular. But recently they have become more popular because many now have more time to care for them. However, what most do not know is that getting a pet, especially during this time, offers the owner more benefits than just companionship.

Animals are often used in therapy with many different age groups because of the comfort they offer.

They can help calm anxiety and relieve stress or even do something as simple as put a smile on someone’s face.

While a new puppy or kitten is not a trained therapy animal, they can still help reduce anxiety and stress.

Spending more time at home can cause stress levels to increase. Many who owned a pet before the pandemic found that spending time with that pet not only decreased their stress level but also made them feel happier.

Cathy Floyd has worked from home since the start of the pandemic. She has always been an animal person, but the pandemic helped her to realize how much her pets help her get through the day.

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She explains, “Loki is my boxer; he is just so funloving and energetic. Jinx, my cat, is the same way.

Those are my two boys; one is always on either side of me while I do my work.”

While working from home Cathy found that her stress levels had increased, but she always found happiness and peace when she was around her pets. “If I was stressed out or having a bad day, I would reach over and pet them and they would just make me feel better. If they weren’t there, I would be more stressed because I would have no one to talk to.”

Carrie Stallings, who has also been at home more often, found comfort and companionship with her Yorkie, Lucy. “She is my stress reliever. She has really been what I needed during this time,“ she said. Carrie lives alone and could not imagine life without her dog.

“I would feel very lonely and very sad if I didn’t have Lucy. She has been my lifesaver.”

Pets have influenced many of us during this time, and while many may not have had a pet to begin with, now is as good a time as any to adopt a furry companion. Local shelters are open and have multiple different options to fit different family lifestyles.

Whether young or old; dog or cat, adopting a pet can be beneficial.

Pets were companions and family members even before the pandemic, but now pets have become so much more. They have become office buddies, fellow couch companions, and a listening ear. With all the changes happening during the pandemic, one thing that will never change is the comfort and companionship we find in our pets.

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HOME

Delivering Goodies story by Doug Smith

July has finally arrived! The sun is out and summer activates are in full swing. Even if things are different. I was just telling someone the other day that for years Father's Day meant a new fashionable tie, maybe even some cool socks to match. This year after giving up on wearing ties daily, I was just as excited about the fashionable face mask. Other things have changed too. Like the big Fourth of July party, you know the one where we fire up the grill and load it down with burgers and hot dogs, play yard games, and just hang out with friends and family.

Things may be different this year and that’s okay. We are moving at a slower pace and doing things we haven’t done in years.

One thing that comes to mind is more one-on-one time with our loved ones.

We can still fire up the grill, there may just be more space between the

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burgers. Yard games are still fun even if you’re only having to play against your kids. With a smaller group, you can even load up the car and go for a short drive. As you’re out and about you can do what we’ve started calling “Drive-by visits." It's a great way to reintroduce yourself to friends and family you haven’t seen since the last big family event. You know the one where we all stand around and say we should do this more often.

Now’s your chance.

The good news is there are no rules, but this is how we do it. Sometimes we go by the local farmers market and pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables and other ingredients.

Then we drive by someone's home we know to say hello. In most cases, we don’t even go in the house. Get this, we sit on the porch or just stand in the yard and talk for a few minutes. Trust me, you will be sharing more than

just a bit of fresh fruit. The smiles and conversations are priceless. Now to be honest we don’t always come bearing gifts but it does make some great memories.

If you would like to take it up a notch, give my Buttermilk Pie recipe a try and deliver that to your family and friends.

This classic Charleston pie recipe uses simple ingredients. Since it is so easy and quietly elegant, it makes the perfect pie for a summertime driveby visit.

Get more from Doug Smith by following him on Facebook and Instagram at "Doug the Food Guy".

Buttermilk Pie INGREDIENTS • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie shell • 3 eggs • 1¼ cups granulated sugar • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted • 1 cup buttermilk • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon) • 1 tablespoon lemon zest • Pinch of salt

METHOD 1. Preheat oven to 350º F. 2. Mix together eggs, granulated sugar, flour, butter, buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until well-combined.

3. Pour into the unbaked pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown.

4. Remove from the oven and allow to cool prior to slicing.

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HOME

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

Raspberry & Lemon Rosé Sparkler

INGREDIENTS

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1 1/2 pt. fresh raspberries 2 tbsp. sugar 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice 1 bottle sparkling rosé, chilled Sliced lemons and raspberries, garnish VIPMagSC.com VIPMagSC.com

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DIRECTIONS

Smash raspberries with sugar and lemon juice in a pitcher.

Top with sparkling rosé. Serve over ice with mint, sliced lemons and raspberries.