February 2024

December 2021

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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March 2022

December 2021

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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December 2021

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

magazine

Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com

Creative Design Tuesday Taylor Ashley Rogers

Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com

Contributing Photographer Fred Salley Photography

Office Manager Tiffany Skipper jtskipp35@gmail.com Advertising Executives Julie C. Tyler juliectyler@yahoo.com

Contributing Writers Kimberly Brauss John Browning, MD Mark W. Buyck, III Leann Davis Cynthia Ford La’Quanita Goodman Bryan Holt Ravi Parikh, MD Doug Smith

Serving Florence, Hartsville, Darlington, Marion, Mullins, Lake City and the surrounding areas

2011-B Second Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29501 For advertising rates, email heather@vipmagsc.com.

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CONTENTS: F E B R U A R Y 2 0 24

ISSUE 99

Page 12

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Page 18

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HEALTH 11 McLeod Health: McLeod Structural Heart Program 12 Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center: Make Shaving A Thing Of The Past 14 Carolina Pines: Striving for Zero Harm on Every Level 18 HopeHealth: Painful Periods - Could It Be Endometriosis 20 McLeod Health: Team Effort Allows Patient To Receive New Heart Valve

HOME 23

Doug Smith: National Pizza Day - The Rich History Of Pizza

FLORENCE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM'S BOOK OF THE MONTH 26 Lycanthropy And Other Chronic Illnesses by Kristen O'Neal

CALENDAR 28 February 2024: Fun Days and Events

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LIFEST YLE 32 Gift Guide: Date Night Essentials 34 Special Olympics South Carolina: Area 1 Strikers 36 Cynthia Ford: Healthy Lifestyle Being Health Conscious in the New Year 38 Bryan Holt: Sipping Nature - The Rise of Natural Wine

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40 A Choice to Make 15th Annual Gala The Robertsons

BUSINESS 42 Mark W. Buyck, III: Mary McLeod Bethune 44 Employee Spotlight: Marqueis Smith, Trinity Collegiate School 47 Have A Ball, Party Rentals: Luxe Soft Play & Ball Pit Rentals 50 Icing Ink: Made From Scratch & Prepared With Love Page 47

DRINK 52 La'Quantia Goodman: For the Love of Prince

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

Make Shaving a Thing of the Past

Laser Hair removal is a fast, effective solution for unwanted hair on all areas of the body and is safe for ALL SKIN TYPES! Do you have unwanted hair growth? Razor burn and irritation from shaving?

Come see our experienced staff at Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center for painless laser hair removal! You read that right, PAIN FREE! No numbing is required, making each treatment super fast & easy!

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Story by

Leann Davis, Aesthetician at

Genesis Cosmetic Laser and Lipo Center answers some of the most asked

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is considered to be a long lasting form of hair removal that damages and destroys the hair follicle. The laser uses light based energy to target the pigment in the individual hair follicle. The heat from the light is absorbed into the follicle and diminishes the hair growth.

What can I expect during my Laser Hair Removal consultation?

Consultations usually consist of meeting our laser certified Aestheticians, Morgan or Leann!

They will walk you through how laser hair removal works, what to do/avoid before and after each treatment and setting you up with a plan as needed. Test spots may be provided before the initial treatment is performed. Lastly, they will provide you with pricing for both single & package treatments depending on the area.

Do you accept payment plans?

Is laser hair removal permanent and what is the process of having this treatment done?

Laser hair removal is considered to be a permanent reduction in hair growth. You will start by receiving the recommended 6 initial treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart in order to catch the hair in different growth phases.

While we do not offer in-office financing, we do accept Care Credit! Care Credit offers 0% interest on purchases made within the office for up to 24 months after your treatment. Payments are broken up into low monthly installments and can be customized through the Care Credit mobile app, making it a super quick and convenient option!

Who is a candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Genesis Cosmetic Laser Center is proud to offer Laser Hair Removal treatments that are safe for all skin types/ tones. The darker the hair follicle, the better your results will be. We highly suggest skipping Laser Hair Removal treatments if you have blonde/white/gray hair as the laser targets the pigment within the hair follicle, resulting in less than desired results. All of these things will be discussed during your initial consultation!

273 Celebration Boulevard, Florence | 843-669-2220 www.genesiscosmetic.com

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

Christy Moody, CNO, Striving for Zero Patient Harm on Every Level It’s hard to imagine the complexity of how a hospital system operates on a day-to-day basis. Caring for patients, recognizing a scrupulous staff, and being progressive medically while also maintaining high-quality standards are all important attributes. The leadership set into place has to be intentional in every aspect.

Christy Moody, MSN, RN, CCRN, CPPS, and Chief Nursing Officer at Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center (CPRMC), refers to this purposeful behavior as “chasing zeros.” Christy along with her colleagues and staff are creating a culture of safety. Because of Christy's efforts, she has been honored with a Drive to Zero Harm Leadership Award from the South Carolina (SC) Hospital Association. The award recognizes and celebrates leaders who strive for Zero Harm at every level within an organization. The six domains that establish this benchmark are Vision for Safety, Trust and Respect, Board Engagement, Leadership Development, Just Culture, and Behavioral Expectations.

Amongst many other recognitions from the SC Hospital Association, CPRMC has also received a letter ‘A’ Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group for several years. I recently had the opportunity of engaging with Moody to discuss Carolina Pines’ strategic priority to becoming a highly reliable organization, and the safety and quality journey they’ve been on to get there.

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CPRMC is proud to announce that they've been awarded four Certified Zero Harm Clinical Awards for 2023 and three Drive to Zero Harm Priority Awards.

CPRMC’s 2023 Zero Harm Clinical Awards: • Surgical Site Infection (SSI) – Colon Surgery • SSI – Abdominal Hysterectomy • CLASBSI – Hospital Wide • CLASBSI – ICU CPRMC’s Drive to Zero Harm Priority Awards: • The Drive to Zero Suicide Award was created to recognize South Carolina hospitals that have become increasingly committed to incorporating suicide prevention and behavioral health into their patient safety and quality efforts.

• The Drive to Zero Workplace Violence Award recognizes that healthcare workers are at increased risk of workplace violence due to several factors.

Addressing this danger is essential to creating a culture of safety and respect in hospital facilities.

• The Drive to Zero Disparities Award is given to facilities that are working to reduce health disparities and promote health equity for patients. story continued on page 16 February 2024

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Zero Harm Clinical Awards The SC Hospital Association provides a Zero Harm Blueprint to help guide hospital leadership in their safety principles. “Their strategic initiatives laid the foundation for our safety goals,” said Moody. “We strive to have zero patient harms. Medical issues like central line bloodstream infections, surgical site infections, and skin breakdown are absolutely preventable. The prevention measures set in place allow CPRMC to be a highly reliable organization.”

While the hospital is celebrating its accomplishments today, the process of getting here was rigorously calculated. “We knew we had to educate the staff and providers first and foremost, and that everyone from housekeeping to dietary, nursing to radiology, had to understand their why and what part they would play in that journey," Moody said of their chasing zeros journey.

"We started a morning safety brief; every day we had a conversation about the patients in our hospital who were high risk. A lot of accountability was set into place.

Our nurse-driven protocols to drive this change were highly effective. We discussed how many days we were without patient harm and the staff really bought into it."

As of today, CPRMC has experienced more than 1,400 days without bloodstream infections and over 1,200 days without catheter associated hospital-acquired UTIs. Ask any hospital staff member and they can happily tell you these victories because it has become a culture that they talk about every single day.

Moody is most proud of the CPRMC staff for reaching and maintaining these harm-free goals. “During the pandemic, our organization was hit hard. I think we 16

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were the third hospital in the state to be presented with a COVID-19 patient. Even when we were overflowing with patients everywhere, our staff managed to continue meeting our Zero Harm goals. We didn’t get a bloodstream infection, we didn’t get a hospital-acquired catheter infection, and we maintained that during the face of a pandemic.”

Drive to Zero Harm Priority Awards | DRIVE TO ZERO SUICIDE AWARD The words "suicide prevention" may only come to mind while passing a billboard advertisement as you run errands through town but in fact, the loss of loved ones to suicide is something many families are forced to face regularly.

Over a decade ago, healthcare, specifically the psychiatric component, experienced a high rate of suicide. Patients would visit the emergency department but getting a bed secured for them in the state was nearly impossible. It led to a higher rate of suicide, not just in older adults but also in teenage children. “It was alarming,” said Moody. “Our hospital sat down and talked about how we could impact this. We started using best-practice screening tools. We partnered with a telesite with the Department of Mental Health. Their virtual psychiatrist helped our staff decide when it was safe for a patient to go home. This has been very successful for our team.” 2021 was the first year that the SC Hospital Association presented the Drive to Zero Suicide Award.

CPRMC was one of a few hospitals that won it that year and they have been able to maintain it since.

"It has been over 1,400 days since we have had a bloodstream infection.

It's been more than 1,200 days since we’ve had a catheter associated hospital-acquired UTI. Our staff can tell you this because it has become a culture they talk about every single day." - Christy Moody

| DRIVE TO ZERO WORKPLACE VIOLENCE AWARD

Leapfrog Group

Because hospital violence occurs so frequently, the SC Hospital Association has asked hospitals to begin tracking workforce violence. “Hospitals are a dangerous place to work,” explains Moody. “If you assault a police officer it’s a felony charge. However, you can harm a nurse and often nothing happens. CPRMC has partnered with legislature to get traction to make it where it's a crime to assault a nurse. Providing a safe work environment for our staff is a priority. We have signs at the entrances of our hospital explaining that if you harm a healthcare worker, you will be prosecuted.”

The actions CPRMC has placed to provide a safe work environment helped them achieve the Drive to Zero Workplace Violence Award.

In addition to the SC Hospital Association awards, CPRMC has earned four consecutive A safety grades from the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization that aims to improve healthcare quality and safety. Every year, the Leapfrog Group recognizes hospitals across the country that have demonstrated excellence in providing safe, high-quality care to patients. "Leapfrog, like the Zero Harms, are all about patient safety," said Moody. The latest feather in CPRMC’s cap is being named a Top General Hospital by Leapfrog, which is one of the most prestigious awards a healthcare organization can receive. To attain this designation, hospitals must meet stringent performance standards across various measures. In 2023, there were only 35 hospitals in the nation that achieved this honor, and only 2 of those were in South Carolina. “There's also a national board certification called Certified Professional of Patient Safety, referred to as CPPS,” stated Moody. “Having that certification signifies that you have the knowledge base about patient safety, that you think from a patient safety standpoint, and you practice within those guidelines. We made it a very strongly recommended certification for our nursing directors, physicians, and pharmacists. Safety has to be the cultural norm of every level within the organization, and we’ve learned that being an A Grade facility isn’t that hard when it’s just our culture. Once the staff are educated and understand the ‘why,’ achieving that A Grade is just a validation of the work they are doing.” that hard when it’s just our culture. Once the staff are educated and understand the ‘why,’ achieving that A Grade is just a validation of the work they are doing.”

| DRIVE TO ZERO DISPARITIES AWARD Lastly, and notably one of CPRMC’s proudest accomplishments with the SC Hospital Association, is the Drive to Zero Disparities Award. South Carolina has some of the highest incidents of cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart attacks, and diabetes. “Our state is behind the national curve,” stated Moody. “Acknowledging these existing disparities, our organization made an intentional effort to get outside the walls of our hospital to educate our community before they ever reach our facility with these issues in the first place. We knew this is how we would make a true impact. Whether it’s one of our many outreach programs, our free educational classes, our support groups, our health screening events, or just our involvement in community events where we provide valuable information, we’ve played a vital role in fostering a healthier and more informed community around these issues. One significant action involved collaborating with our local school systems to educate students about identifying signs and symptoms of a stroke and emphasizing the importance of calling 911 as quickly as possible. Through all of these initiatives, we aim to make a lasting impact on preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases and related conditions.”

CPRMC is paving the path in hospital safety and has received the accolades to prove it. "I am so proud of this team at CPRMC! It's a great group of people that are committed and dedicated to the community and that is making a big difference."

Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center 1304 West Bobo Newsom Hwy, Hartsville www.cprmc.com | 843.339.2100 February 2024

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HEALTH ++ WELLNESS WELLNESS HEALTH

PAINFUL PERIODS: COULD IT BE ENDOMETRIOSIS? story by John Browning, MD, HopeHealth Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition estimated to affect 1 in 10 women between the ages of 15 and 44. A women’s uterus is lined with endometrial tissue called the endometrium, which develops during the menstrual cycle to prepare for a fertilized egg and is shed during menstruation. Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial tissue spreads to other areas outside the uterine walls, including the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bowel, bladder, or other areas in the pelvic or abdominal cavity. This tissue causes lesions, which are unique to each patient with endometriosis, and typically cause painful symptoms.

The most common symptom of endometriosis is painful periods, and while period pain is normal, pain from endometriosis can be severe enough to interfere with daily life and can occur in the pelvic area, abdomen, and lower back. Pain levels and severity are different for each woman, but pain from endometriosis typically begins before the menstrual cycle and can improve after the cycle ends. Pain may also occur throughout the month between periods, and for some women, pain may also occur during or after sex, or even after urination or bowel movements.

Other symptoms may be general pelvic pain and infertility. Some women don’t experience any pain with endometriosis, and the level of pain is not always related to the severity of the condition.

endometriosis. Once a woman goes into menopause, endometriosis symptoms, including pain levels, will typically decrease.

Getting an endometriosis diagnosis typically takes about eight years since the only way to truly diagnose it is to perform a surgery called laparoscopy with a biopsy. Since pelvic pain is a primary symptom, it can often be misdiagnosed as inflammatory bowel disease, interstitial cystitis, or other inflammatory conditions which may also coincide with endometriosis.

Often women without pain may be diagnosed with endometriosis during an exam for infertility or other gynecological issues. Between 30-50% of people living with endometriosis may experience infertility, as the condition can cause scar tissue, damage fallopian tubes, and impact egg quality and quantity.

Treatment consists of pain management and hormone therapy to manage the condition with or without a solid diagnosis. Pain management typically starts with NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen in an over the counter or prescription dose. Hormone therapy can help decrease pain as well as scarring, thickening, and the size of lesions in the uterus.

The reason endometriosis develops is unknown, but risk factors include family history and starting menstruation before age 11. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and being at a healthy weight can decrease the risk of

Hormonal contraceptives in birth control pills have been a mainstay of treatment for endometriosis since the 1950s with a variety of other options including IUDs, vaginal rings, patches, and injections. Progestin

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therapy is another option that slows endometrial scarring and can be provided by IUD, injection, or pill. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists are medications that essentially put the body into artificial menopause to treat endometriosis and are available by injection or a daily pill. Gn-RH treatments are very effective for treating endometriosis and can be combined with other hormones for any menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes or bone loss.

Hormonal therapies can be very effective for reducing symptoms, although pain will return if the treatment is stopped. Surgical removal of lesions can help with pain and symptoms but is not a cure, and they will reoccur about 50% of the time. A hysterectomy with oophorectomy, which includes removal of the uterus and ovaries and puts the woman in menopause, relieves the pain for 90% of women, and is usually only indicated for extreme cases and for women who are finished having children. Any medical treatments for endometriosis, including medications or surgery, have benefits and risks that need to be carefully considered and tailored to each individual by a health care provider.

It is important to develop a trusting relationship with your primary health care provider and a gynecologist to diagnose and help manage the symptoms of endometriosis. Teens and young women ages 1420 need to seek gynecological care early on if pelvic pain before and during periods affects quality of life, such as missing days of school each month. Women with fertility issues also need to rule out endometriosis as a potential cause.

Dr. Browning is an OB/GYN providing women’s care services at the HopeHealth Medical Plaza. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia, and with a medical degree from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dr. Browning enlisted in the military in 1986 and provided OB/GYN care in Washington and Germany before being promoted to Major in the Army Reserve in 1992. His residency was completed at Madigan Army Medical Center.

He has practiced in Florence since 1994.

Working with a gynecologist to diagnosis the condition, getting a second opinion if needed, and exploring all options along with the pros and cons of each can help women make informed decisions about how to best manage endometriosis. The earlier a diagnosis and treatment plan is started for endometriosis, the quicker a woman can get help for symptoms, prevent worsening symptoms over time, and improve her quality of life.

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

TEAM EFFORT ALLOWS PATIENT TO

RECEIVE NEW HEART VALVE

story by Dr. Ravi Parikh, McLeod Structural Heart Cardiologist and Dr. Srinivas Kolla, McLeod Cardiothoracic Surgeon

The McLeod Heart and Vascular Institute combined the skills of Structural Heart Cardiologists Dr. Ravi Parikh and Dr. Brian Blaker with Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Srinivas Kolla to repair a patient’s severely leaking aortic heart valve. This surgery as it was performed was a first-time procedure in South Carolina.

The patient had come to the McLeod Structural Heart Team in 2023 complaining of trouble breathing and retaining fluid. Their aortic valve had previously been replaced in 2018 with the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement procedure (TAVR).

The results of a heart catheterization looked good for the patient but a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) test that produces pictures of the heart using high-frequency sound waves revealed the issue.

One year ago, this patient’s heart valve was functioning appropriately. The TEE test indicated the aortic valve was now leaking. This meant the leaflets on the heart valve were not closing tight enough which allowed blood to leak back into the heart.

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The surgical team reviews the monitor checking the placement of the patient’s new heart valve.

Shortness of breath is one symptom patients can experience when this happens making everyday tasks difficult to manage. Other symptoms patients might encounter include fatigue, chest pain, fainting, or an overall feeling of weakness.

The challenge was to determine the best surgical option for the patient. At 83 years old any option that required a long extensive surgery would not have been in the patient’s best interest.

After Dr. Parikh and Dr. Kolla closely reviewed all of the imaging which included the TEE and a CT scan of the heart (routinely performed prior to TAVR procedures for planning purposes) and discussed the case with colleagues all over the country, a decision was made of the safest route to present to the patient and family – an option that combined the skills of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Structural Cardiology to minimize time for the patient on the surgical table and optimize recovery.

Removing the leaking valve would have been too extensive of a surgery. The surgical option proposed was the placement of the new valve inside of the old valve. The original concern was this method did have a potential risk for heart attack because once the new valve was in place it would push the leaflets of the old valve to the side which could then block off blood flow to the arteries supplying the heart with blood. The solution to prevent this risk involved Dr. Kolla surgically removing the leaflets from the old heart valve.

Once the leaflets were removed, Dr. Parikh and Dr. Blaker implanted the patient’s new valve. When it was exactly positioned across the diseased old valve using X-ray, the new valve was released and started working immediately.

The McLeod Structural Heart Program has been replacing diseased heart valves using the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement procedure since 2017. The Structural Heart team members include: Cardiothoracic Surgeons Dr. Srinivas Kolla, Dr. Cary Huber and Dr. Robert Messier; Structural Heart Cardiologists Dr. Ravi Parikh and Dr. Brian Blaker; Anesthesiologists Dr. Daniel Fox, Dr. Robert Savage and Dr. Robert R. Casella.

Structural heart procedures, including TAVR, emphasize a team effort. This particular case could not have been accomplished without the physicians and staff working together for the benefit of the patient. All of the team members bring their experience and expertise for the best care of the patient.

The McLeod Heart and Vascular Institute offers a Valve Clinic at the office of McLeod Cardiology Associates to meet the medical needs of patients diagnosed with valve disease. In the clinic, each patient is evaluated by a team of cardiac experts to diagnose the type and severity of the valve disease and develop a treatment plan specific to the patient’s condition. For questions on the McLeod Valve Clinic, call 843-777-8258.

Dr. Ravi Parikh is a Structural Cardiologist specializing in structural heart disease with McLeod Cardiology Associates. As part of the McLeod Structural Heart Program, Dr. Parikh is also a TAVR Certified Physician.

Physician and self-referrals are welcome by calling 843-667-1891.

Dr. Srinivas Kolla is a Board Certified Thoracic Surgeon with more than 20 years of surgical experience that includes cardiac, thoracic and roboticassisted thoracic surgery. He cares for patients at McLeod Cardiothoracic Surgical Associates.

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HOME story by Doug Smith

February 9th

National Pizza Day

"This culinary masterpiece has a history as diverse and flavorful as the toppings that grace its surface..."

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HOME

Rich History of Pizza and the Age-Old Debate on the Best Style

Pizza, with its gooey cheese, flavorful tomato sauce, and a crispy or chewy crust, is undeniably one of the world's most beloved and iconic dishes. This culinary masterpiece has a history as diverse and flavorful as the toppings that grace its surface. As we embark on a journey through time, we will unravel the origins of pizza, explore its evolution into a global phenomenon, and wade into the age-old debate on which style reigns supreme.

The story of pizza begins in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century.

Although flatbreads with various toppings had been enjoyed in Mediterranean cultures for centuries, the true precursor to modern pizza emerged in Naples. A simple and economical dish, it featured a flatbread topped with tomatoes, garlic, oil, and occasionally cheese.

The working-class locals of Naples embraced this affordable and tasty street food, and it quickly gained popularity in the bustling markets and narrow alleys of the city. The introduction of mozzarella cheese in the late 19th century elevated the dish, giving birth to the classic Margherita pizza, named after Queen Margherita of Italy, who favored the combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

The journey of pizza across the Atlantic is a tale of immigration and assimilation. Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions, including pizza, to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The first pizzeria in the U.S., Lombardi's, opened its doors in New York City in 1905 and is often credited with introducing Americans to pizza.

As pizza gained popularity in the U.S., it transformed to suit local tastes. Regional styles began to emerge, each with its unique characteristics and toppings. The pizza landscape in America became a patchwork quilt of styles, ranging from the thin, foldable slices of New York to the deep-dish indulgence of Chicago.

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

Find Doug the FoodGuy on Spotify and Apple podcasts @The Pizzeria & Enzo Show

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The Great Debate:

Which Style Is Best?

The debate over the best style of pizza is a passionate and age-old discussion that has sparked countless arguments and taste tests. Each regional style brings its own distinct qualities to the table, appealing to different palates and preferences. Let's delve into some of the most iconic pizza styles and the reasons why enthusiasts champion their favorite.

1. New York Style Pizza: The Foldable Classic (and my favorite) New York-style pizza is perhaps the most iconic and widely recognized pizza style in the world.

Known for its thin, foldable slices and large, floppy crust, New York pizza has a distinct texture and flavor profile. The crust is typically crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, providing the perfect foundation for a generous layer of tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella.

Advocates of New York-style pizza praise its simplicity, emphasizing the balance between crust, sauce, and cheese. The ability to fold a slice in half for convenient street eating adds to its appeal. The "dollar slice" joints scattered throughout New York City further solidify the style's status as an accessible and iconic food.

2. Chicago Deep Dish: A Hearty Indulgence On the opposite end of the spectrum lies the mighty Chicago deep-dish pizza. This style, originating in the Windy City in the mid-20th century, is a culinary marvel that defies traditional pizza conventions. The deep-dish pie features a thick, buttery crust that cradles layers of cheese, toppings, and a generous amount of chunky tomato sauce.

Chicago deep dish is often likened to a savory pie, and its hearty, filling nature is both celebrated and debated. The longer baking time required for the thick crust and ample toppings results in a pizza that demands patience but rewards the senses with a satisfying, indulgent experience.

3. Neapolitan Pizza: Tradition in Every Bite Neapolitan pizza, with its roots in the birthplace of pizza, is a recognized cultural treasure. This style adheres to strict guidelines, specifying the use of specific ingredients and cooking methods. The crust, known for its soft and elastic texture, must be thin in the center with a thicker outer edge.

Traditional Neapolitan pizza is cooked in a woodfired oven at extremely high temperatures, ensuring a rapid and even bake. The toppings are simple yet flavorful, with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil taking center stage.

Neapolitan purists argue that this style preserves the essence of the original pizza from Naples.

4. Sicilian Pizza: A Square Slice Sensation Sicilian pizza stands out with its square shape and thick, airy crust. This style hails from the Italian island of Sicily and has become a favorite in various parts of the United States. The dough is often allowed to rise for an extended period, resulting in a light and fluffy interior.

Sicilian pizza provides a satisfying interplay of textures, with a crisp bottom crust supporting a pillowy interior. The toppings, ranging from simple tomato and cheese to more elaborate combinations, are spread generously over the square canvas. The square slices, cut from a larger pan, offer a delightful deviation from the traditional triangular shape.

A Matter of Personal Taste The debate over the best style of pizza may never be definitively settled, and that's part of the beauty of this culinary phenomenon. The diversity of pizza styles allows for a wide range of preferences, ensuring there's a perfect slice for everyone.

Whether you find solace in the simplicity of a New York slice, revel in the indulgence of a Chicago deep-dish pie, savor the tradition of a Neapolitan masterpiece, or enjoy the comfort of a Sicilian square, pizza remains a universally beloved dish that transcends borders and brings people together.

In the end, the best style of pizza is a matter of personal taste. It's about the memories created around a shared table, the unique blend of flavors that speak to your palate, and the joy that a simple slice of pizza can bring. So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of a passionate pizza debate, remember that the true winner is the one enjoying a delicious slice, regardless of its style.

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VIP'S BOOK CLUB

Rachel Liptak’s, Librarian at the Timmonsville branch of the Florence County Library System, Book Review of

LYCANTHROPY AND OTHER CHRONIC ILLNESSES, A NOVEL In Kristen O’Neal’s young adult novel Lycanthropy and Other Chronic Illnesses, as in life, friendship can’t cure diseases, but it can help you fight off the monsters inside.

Lyme disease and its resulting effects have derailed Priya’s college career in California and she’s returned home to New Jersey to recuperate. Trying to come to grips with a new normal of daily pain and fatigue, she finds support in an online community. The members, all dealing with various ailments, are at different points in their journeys—some have lived with their conditions their whole lives, while others have yet to be diagnosed with anything definitive.

The latter group includes Priya’s online best friend Brigid, whose mysterious disorder upends her life once a month. Though group members are spread throughout the country and even overseas, it turns out that Priya and Brigid only live an hour from each other; so when Brigid suddenly disappears from the Internet for a few days, Priya decides to find her friend in case she needs help. When Priya arrives the help Brigid needs is not something that even a pre-med student is prepared to tackle, though.

O’Neal adeptly portrays Priya’s struggles to adjust to life after her diagnosis. On top of feeling terrible physically, Priya has to grapple with her entire sense of self changing: the future she’d planned now seems impossible, and the health she’d taken for granted is a memory. Her challenges may seem familiar to anyone wrestling with similar issues. Readers without chronic illnesses (supernatural or otherwise) will get a glimpse into the kinds of painful circumstances that many people, young and old alike, find themselves in.

Did you know that Friends of Florence County Library provide critical support to library services and collections? This includes supporting children’s literacy through the Children’s Summer Reading Program and the Children’s Bookmobile, as well as by funding the library’s e-books and downloadable audio books (available through the Libby app, which can be found on the library web page at www.florencelibrary.org).

You can become a Friends of Florence County Library member for as little as $15 a year! Visit www.florencelibrary.org and select the Friends tab at the top of the page for more information.

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While there is not much gore, there is some body horror in descriptions of the titular werewolf transformations. And, as the members of the support group are in their late teens and early twenties, some of their conversations may be opaque to readers who are not familiar with contemporary memes and social messaging conventions—the e-book version available on Libby is interactive in that respect, with at least one hyperlink that readers can follow for the full group chat experience. (Current young adults, on the other hand, may find the chat's interactions already dated.)

No matter their age, though, readers will get a reminder that even when your body turns against you, a true friend will stand by you, fangs and all.

Kristen O’Neal is a freelance writer who has written for sites like Buzzfeed Reader, Christianity Today, Birth.Movies.

Death, LitHub, and Electric Literature. She lives on the internet. You can find her at @Kristen_ONeal on Twitter and kristenoneal on Tumblr. Lycanthropy and Other Chronic Illnesses is her first novel.

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February 2024 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

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Business After Hours Downtown Lake City Desiree Roots, Jazz Vocalist FMU PAC, Florence Late Night Shopping Downtown Marion

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Parenting with Love & Leadership First Pres Church, Florence Reformers Unanimous Program Every Friday pm & Sunday am Florence Baptist Temple

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Weatherman’s Day

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Galentine's Day Wine Brunch Victors, Florence

13 FSO's Claire Compton FMU PAC, Florence

The Story Tour SiMT Building, Florence

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Presidents' Day

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Heart Healthy Bingo Carolina Pines, Hartsville

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

A Choice to Make Heartbeat Gala SiMT Building, Florence

Ash Wednesday Services Central UMC, Florence

Galentines Event The Sanctuary Spa, Hartsville

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Mornings at the MuseumArt and Joy by Danielle Krysa Florence County Museum

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Montessori Education WeekTours at Montessori School of Florence (February 26-March 1) Stars of Our Lives Dooley Planetarium, Florence

South Carolina Chamber Music Festival, FMU PAC, Florence

The Grace Bash 2024 FMU PAC, Florence

Trivia (every Wed.) Green Frog Social, Lake City

Galentine's Floral Design Workshop, Moore Farms, Lake City

Artful Expression Group for Cancer Patients and Caregivers Meet (3rd Tuesday of the Month) Florence County Museum

Bonsai 101 Growing Hobby, Florence

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Boys & Girls Club Pee Dee Youth of the Year Competition, Florence Club

The King's Academy Open Enrollment Begins

One World, One Sky Dooley Planetarium, Florence

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Women in Commerce Coffee Social Residence Inn, Florence

ArtFields Jr. Art Explorers ArtFields office, Lake City

Karaoke (every Thur.)

Green Frog Social, Lake City

29 Open Mic Night (every Thursday), Lula’s Coffee Co.- Southside Location, Florence

Shellen Cline in Concert Bethea Retirement Community, Florence

Pine Wood Derby Central UMC, Florence

Grief Share (every Thursday), Compassion Church, Florence

Don't forget to submit info on your upcoming community event to share with our readers! email: heather@vipmagsc.com

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LOCAL EVENT CALENDAR + NATIONAL DAYS! Saturday

Friday

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3 Groundhog Dog

February 2 & 3 Florence Stampede and Pro Rodeo Florence Center

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Ralph Stanley + Bluegrass Music Concert Grand Old Post Office, Darlington

Lake City Junior Women's Club Annual Oyster Roast, The Bean Market, Lake City St. Anthony's Auction & Gala St. Anthony's Church

10 YMCA Father/Daughter Florence YMCA Boys and Girls Club of the Pee Dee Youth of the Year Competition, Hartsville Club

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Galentine's Yoga SipFlow Wine + Beer, Lake City

Florence Cars and Coffee Highland Park Church, Florence “We Go Together Like” Sugar Cookie Decorating Class Corner Connections, Darlington Ball 17Marion OldSneaker Town Hall, Marion Steal Away FMU PAC, Florence Sip N Spin with Olio Studio, Tammy's, Lake City

FLT's Centennial Celebration Florence Little Theatre

A Night of Opulence Gala, The Bean Market, Lake City

23 FMU Patriots

24Republican Presidential

Florence Chamber's Winter 2024 Legislative Breakfast, Florence Center

Boys and Girls Club of the Pee Dee Regional Youth of the Year Competition, 310 W. Roughfork St. Florence

Downtown Chocolate Crawl, Florence Center

HMRA Farmer’s Market Downtown Marion

Homecoming Weekend

Preference Primary

City-Center Farmers Market, Downtown Florence Saturdays, 9a-1p

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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ARTFIELDS 2022

Kyle Johnson 20 y.o.

Bowling, Basketball, Track & Field "I'm excited to see people that I already know and meet new people. This is my first time going to the national competition.

I went to the SC Summer Games last May and won gold in bowling."

Jackie Sue Hoch 43 y.o.

Basketball, Bowling, Tennis, Track & Field, Swim, Alpine Skiing "I've been to games before. I like getting to meet new friends. I'd like to thank my mom for coaching me, and my family, friends, and God."

Conner Munn 19 y.o.

Bowling, Tennis, Basketball "This is my first time flying! It’s exciting to be able to have a chance to compete and to have fun with my friends. "

Please consider a donation to help with travel expenses for the Area 1 Strikers. Click the QR link for more info.

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Conner Lewis 27 y.o.

Bowling, Basketball, Track & Field, Miracle League Baseball "I'm excited about the competition."

AREA 1 STRIKERS will compete in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 28-29!

Kayden Odom 18 y.o.

Basketball, Bowling, Tennis, Track & Field, Swim "I love the competition!

I'd like to thank Mary Sue Hoch for being our coach and helping us make it this far."

Nick Cogley 28 y.o.

Bowling "I look forward to meeting new people, seeing new places, and hanging out with my friends!"

Kendall Goss 30 y.o.

Bowling, Track & Field, Taekwondo "I enjoy being with my friends the most"

Area 1 covers Dillon, Florence and Marion Counties. They provide year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

To get involved, contach Mary Sue Hoch: Cell: (843) 230-9106 Email: area1@so-sc.org

April 20222024VIPMagSC.com February VIPMagSC.com

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LIFESTYLE story by Cynthia Ford

Being Health Conscious in the New Year Taking control of your health usually reigns as a high topic at the beginning of each year. Individuals hope to make a comeback from poor health decisions made from the previous year. Poor health can be a repeating generational cycle if we allow it to be. Often it is cultural practices that lead to these poor outcomes.

Recent data shows alarming results for health outcomes in the Pee Dee region. The Pee Dee region of South Carolina includes Chesterfield, Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, Sumter, and Williamsburg Counties.

There are 46 counties in South Carolina. County Health Rankings list health outcomes of these counties in the Pee Dee as follows: Chesterfield -30, Clarendon-27, Darlington-36, Dillon-42, Florence-28, Georgetown-22, Horry-15, Lee-44, Marion-45, Marlboro-41, Sumter-24, and Williamsburg Counties-40.

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Six of the counties in the Pee Dee Region rank among the bottom ten counties with the lowest health outcomes – Darlington, Dillon, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties. It is understood that everyone cannot be ranked as number one and there must be a number 46. Much of what has contributed to lower health rankings are factors such as obesity, sexually transmitted infections, physical inactivity, and chronic illnesses.

Counties in the Pee Dee with poor health outcomes can band together to change the story. Even though it is a personal decision for each person to maintain control of their health outcomes, collective efforts can help to shift the narrative. We do not have to reinvent methods to create success. Let’s review three ways to help improve health outcomes in the Pee Dee area and across the state of South Carolina.

Increase Physical Activity Increasing physical activity can be as simple as stretching, chair exercises, and as complex and rigorous aerobics. Check within your county for group sessions that offer personal trainers. If finance is a barrier to fitness instruction, consider increasing activity on your own or with a small group of close friends and family. One inexpensive form of physical fitness to start with is walking. Start by ensuring you have appropriate walking shoes for good form and balance. Make sure to begin walking at your own pace. Eventually, you can increase speed and distance. Don’t think about the task of physical activity as you are performing it. Use the time to clear your mind and relax. The increased physical activity will not only improve physical health but will also improve mental health.

Know that barriers will present themselves and could lead to an excuse for you to discontinue physical exercises.

Some say that time is a barrier to physical activity. Create a weekly routine and start with small increments of time.

Eventually, as time permits, these small habits become an essential part of your day. recipes online or in cookbooks. Practice making new dishes until you perfect them. Start with minor changes such as adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet compared to meats and starches. Consider switching out a sugary drink with one meal with water. Start early teaching children the benefits of eating healthy and make it a family effort.

Manage Chronic Illnesses

Consume Healthy Foods Many times, people complain that healthy foods are tasteless and unappealing. The main purpose of food is to provide energy and nutrition to our bodies. We have introduced additives that take away from the nutritional value but provide that peculiar taste that we seek. Often consuming too many foods that are high in sugars and fat contributes to chronic illnesses. As we consume the food, our body pulls nutrients that can be used to help with immunity, energy, and overall health. Our body then has to go through the process of filtering, digestion, and elimination.

Healthy foods do not have to be tasteless or unappealing.

There are techniques to bring out the flavor in foods. If you struggle with preparing delicious and healthy meals, use

When healthcare professionals provide diagnoses for chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, patients are also given alternatives to improve or reverse the illness. Sometimes the solution provided is medication. Take a deeper inspection of your body and the way that it operates. Remember that food is also medicine. Research which foods could also help to shift health outcomes. Understand what the illness is yourself and what body system it is attacking. Ask questions from your health professionals after receiving a diagnosis. Find out if the illness could be reversed and take action to reverse it.

Many wish for a long life and good health. We must do more than just speak about it. We must take action to ensure that we are indeed healthy. Refrain from being intimidated by those who appear to be further ahead of you on the health journey. Know that they too had a starting point and decided to move past the starting point. Take one step today in the direction of improving your total health and increase those actions as days progress.

July 2023 2024 VIPMagSC.com February VIPMagSC.com

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ARTFIELDS LIFESTYLE 2022

Ruth Lewandowski vineyards

SIPPING NATURE:

The Rise of Natural Wine story by Bryan Holt, Cru Wine & Tap

In recent years, the world of wine has witnessed a quiet revolution, with the emergence and flourishing popularity of natural wine. This unfiltered, unadulterated approach to winemaking goes back to ancient traditions, making it more than just a trend; it's a movement.

A Brief History of Natural Wine: The roots of

natural wine can be traced to the 1960s and 70s, when a few French winemakers, notably Jules Chauvet, began to champion a return to simpler, more traditional winemaking practices. Natural wine embraces the idea of minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar, focusing on organic or biodynamic farming and eschewing additives and technological manipulation.

Popularity Surge: Fast forward to the present day, and natural wine has gone from a niche interest to a global phenomenon. Wine enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to the authenticity and unique flavors that arise from this hands-off approach.

Restaurants, bars, and wine shops now proudly feature sections dedicated to these vibrant, often cloudy, and always intriguing bottles.

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Bryan Holt is the owner of Cru Wine & Tap located in Downtown Florence, SC. He was the wine buyer at Micky Finn’s for over 20 years.

The Natural Wine Movement: What sets natural wine apart is not just its taste but also the ethos behind it. It's a movement advocating for sustainability, biodiversity, and a more personal connection between winemakers and consumers.

This movement seeks to challenge the industrialization of winemaking and promote a return to the land.

The Future of Natural Wine: As we look to the future, the

natural wine movement shows no signs of slowing down.

Winemakers are exploring innovative techniques, adapting to climate change, and pushing boundaries. Consumers, more conscious than ever of the environmental impact of their choices, are likely to drive this movement forward, demanding transparency and sustainability.

Action Bronson

Innate Wines

In conclusion, the rise of natural wine is more than a trend; it's a return to authenticity, a celebration of the land, and a commitment to a more sustainable future.

With figures like Action Bronson championing these wines, the movement is set to continue thriving, captivating palates and hearts alike. So, here's to sipping nature and embracing the revolution one natural glass at a time.

Post Flirtation Wines

Nathan Decamps

Bryan's Recommended Wines: • Innate Wines from Lake City’s own Nathan Decamps

• Post Flirtation Wines from Martha Stoumen • Ruth Lewandowski Wines

Ruth Lewandowski Wines

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LIFESTYLE

Scan for more event info.

The Robertsons 40

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15th Annual

Heartbeat Gala It’s time to join A Choice to Make Pregnancy Resource Center as they celebrate their 15th annual Heartbeat Gala at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology (SiMT) in Florence.

Highlights of A Choice to Make's Commitment to Care

On February 15th, A Choice to Make will host Alan and Lisa Robertson for an unforgettable evening of fellowship. Alan and Lisa have served in full and volunteer ministry for the WFR Church in West Monroe, Louisiana, for over 35 years. Alan pastored there for over 22 years before leaving to return to the family business, Duck Commander, in 2013 and to begin appearing on the Robertson’s TV show, Duck Dynasty.

Alan is the oldest son in the Robertson clan and Lisa is the family’s original daughter-in-law.

• Clients are served without regard to age, race, income, nationality, religious affiliation, disability, or other arbitrary circumstances.

• Client information is held in strict and absolute confidence, according to HIPAA guidelines.

In addition to the Robertson’s sharing the Gospel of Christ along with their story of brokenness, restoration, and healing in their marriage, they’ll also speak on behalf of the unborn and the pro-life movement. This coincides directly with the mission of A Choice to Make – to bring compassion, help, and hope to women, men, and their families unprepared for pregnancy and provide positive alternatives to abortion.

• Because we do not financially benefit from any decision you make, clients are able to receive the answers they need in a pressure-free environment.

• Clients are treated with kindness, compassion, and in a caring manner.

• Clients receive evidence-based medical information about pregnancy, fetal development, lifestyle issues, and related concerns.

At A Choice to Make, clients can participate in the Earn While You Learn Program which provides material support for the baby’s, mother’s, and father's needs and emotional and spiritual support as they partake in classes. The material items given to clients are donated to the center by donors and community supporters.

Additionally, the organization provides an Abortion Recovery Bible Study and a series called Love Lessons where they teach the importance of abstinence. “We encourage sexual abstinence as a positive lifestyle for singles and present Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior,” says Catherine Wells, Center Director.

• All of our advertising and communication are truthful and honest and accurately describe the services we offer.

The February 15th gala is free. The doors open at 6:15 pm, Heavy appetizers will be served. The program begins promptly at 7:00 pm. Attendees can sign up by registering online. The goal of the gala is for supporters to hear about what was accomplished in 2023 and the organization's vision for 2024. It is also a time to celebrate what God is doing at the center and to share client testimonials.

• We provide a safe environment by screening all volunteers and staff interacting with clients.

• We are governed by a board of directors and operate in accordance with our articles of incorporation, bylaws, and stated purpose and mission.

A Choice to Make's Promise To You We're your shame-free, go-to place for unplanned pregnancy solutions.

We know that each person’s situation is unique.

You will never be judged or pressured by our staff. We are here to listen, answer questions, and support you in any way we can. ​​​

We are here to empower and equip you no matter what circumstances bring you through our doors.

For tickets: www.achoicetomake.org/gala July 2023 2024 VIPMagSC.com February VIPMagSC.com

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BUSINESS

MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE

"The true worth of a race must be measured by the character of its womanhood."

- Mary McLeod Bethune

On July 13, 2022, a statute of Mary McLeod Bethune was unveiled and dedicated in the National Statuary Hall in the United States Capital in Washington, D.C. Mrs. Bethune was the first African American representing a state in the Hall. While she spent most of her adult life in the state of Florida, she was a South Carolina native.

Mary Jane McLeod Bethune was born on July 10, 1875, on Raccoon Road on the Timmonsville side of Mayesville. She was the 15th of 17 children born to Sam McLeod and Patsy McIntosh McLeod, both former slaves.

Mrs. Bethune showed an early enthusiasm for education.

She began her education at the Trinity Mission School, a 1-room schoolhouse in Mayesville operated by the Presbyterian Board of Missions of Freedmen. Her instructor there was so impressed that she secured a scholarship for Mary to attend the Scotia Seminary in Concord, North Carolina. Mary McLeod spent seven years boarding at Scotia and traveling back and forth to Mayesville. Upon graduation from Scotia Seminary, she sought admission to Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. In her application letter, she noted, “It is my purpose and my greatest desire to enter your Institute for the purpose of receiving Biblical training in order that I may be fully prepared for the great work which I trust I may be called to do in dark Africa.” Mrs. Bethune was the only black student at the Institute. While in Chicago, she performed missionary training including setting up Sunday Schools in impoverished areas, working with prisoners in the city jails, and spending time at a local homeless shelter. She was chosen to travel to the Dakotas to establish Sunday Schools.

Mrs. Bethune’s dreams of working in Africa were dashed. After two years of training at Moody, the Presbyterian Board of Missions denied her request and instead sent her to the Haines Institute in Augusta, Georgia. After a year teaching at Haines, she returned to South Carolina to teach in Sumter. While in Sumter, she met and married Albert Bethune, who was also a teacher. The couple then moved to Savannah, Georgia, where Mrs. Bethune had her only child, Albert McLeod Bethune. After a year in Savannah, the family was persuaded to move to Palatka, Florida, to run a mission school, also supported by the Presbyterian Church. In October 1904, the young family moved to Daytona Beach, Florida, where 42

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Mary founded the Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, the forerunner of Bethune-Cookman School.

Mrs. Bethune had an outgoing personality which benefited her greatly in securing funds for her various educational and charitable projects. Members of her School Board of Trustees included James Gamble (Procter & Gamble) and Ransom Eli Olds (Oldsmobile Car Company). Mrs. Bethune also traveled extensively in her quest to secure funding for her school. It was on one of these fund raising trips that she first met Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt, who both became life-long friends.

She also counted John D. Rockefeller among the school’s financial supporters.

Mrs. Bethune was active in national civil rights causes. She participated in antilynching and desegregation campaigns.

During World War I, she lobbied the American Red Cross to integrate its services. In 1924, she was elected President of the National Association of Colored Women. She was appointed to government commissions and her opinion was sought by five different Presidents, Republican and Democrat alike, beginning with Calvin Coolidge. In 1934, Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded her husband to appoint Mrs. Bethune as the Director of the Division of Negro Affairs for the National Youth Administration. She became the highest ranking black woman in the Federal Government at the time. She also became a member of a small group of high ranking black government employees advising Roosevelt on policies impacting black citizens. This group became known as FDR’s “Black Cabinet.” At the conclusion of World War II, President Truman appointed Mrs. Bethune as a delegate to the San Francisco Conference, where the United Nations was formed. She represented the NAACP along with W. E. B. Du Bois and Walter White. She was the only black woman delegate to the Convention.

Over the years, Mrs. Bethune added a high school and vocational programs to her school. In 1911, in response to local hospitals’ refusal to treat black patients, she started a nursing program and eventually founded the City’s first black hospital, McLeod Hospital. By 1923, Mrs. Bethune began to shift emphasis of her school to college level programs. In 1931, she merged her school with the Cookman Institute for Men in Jacksonville. The school was initially called The Daytona-Cookman Collegiate Institute. In 1931, the Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools of the Southern States accredited the school as a junior college and the name was officially changed to Bethune-Cookman College.

Mrs. Bethune died on May 18, 1955, just shy of her 80th birthday. She is buried in Daytona Beach, Florida. She received many honors and honorary degrees during her lifetime and posthumously. In 1985, the United States Postal Service issued a stamp in her honor. In 1976, a portrait of Mrs. Bethune was unveiled at the South Carolina House of Representatives.

Speakers that day included Governor James Edwards, Senator Marion Gressette, and then Commissioner of The South Carolina Human Affairs Commission, James Clyburn.

Next time you take the back road between Florence and Sumter, look for the historical marker in Mayesville, located just off Highway 76.

story by Mark W. Buyck, III 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 February 2024

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BUSINESS: EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Meet Marqueis Smith,

Trinity Collegiate School Math Teacher

"

I began my career at Trinity Collegiate School in August of 2022. At the moment, I am a math teacher. However, I sponsor a couple of clubs – The Nerd Club where students gather almost every Friday to play a variety of different video games, and the Spirit Club where students decide themes for the students section of the various sports events that happen at the school.

I love building relationships with the students.

In my opinion, this is the most important part of teaching. I have found that students have an easier time learning from someone when they feel like the educator cares. Building these relationships and having a good classroom dynamic are some of my favorite moments of the job. I also really just love mathematics!

5001 Hoffmeyer Road, Darlington, SC | 843.395.9124 www.Trinitycollegiate.org If you have any questions about Trinity Collegiate School or want to schedule a tour, call April Munn at 843-395-9124.

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For nearly ten years I have worked at the Mathnasium Learning Center in Florence as well. A couple of students who were seniors last year at Trinity attended Mathnasium while they were in middle school. As a teacher at Trinity now, watching them walk across the stage and graduate was a really special moment for me. I also enjoy watching students have that ‘ah-ha’ moment. To see a student go from struggling with a concept to gaining an understanding of how it works is a great moment every single time.

The time I’ve spent as an employee at Trinity has been very rewarding. I appreciate how the administration cares about us as people. They realize that we are more than just teachers and have other responsibilities. They make me feel valued outside of the capacity of my job.

"

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BUSINESS story by Kimberly Brauss

Luxe Soft Play & Ball Pit Rentals

Serving Hartsville, SC, and Surrounding Areas story on page 48

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LIFESTYLE

All Are Sure To Have A Ball Family got them together. A vision got them into planning parties.

Meet Madison Mahn and Mia Thomas. The two women know each other through two brothers – their significant others.

Mahn grew up in Hartsville and moved back home in 2022. She and her husband, Warner, have two children: a 2-year-old daughter, Lula, and newborn son, Eli. Thomas left the Midlands for the area in 2021 to be with her fiancé, Wil. “When Madison moved back home with Lula, she was 4 months old and there wasn’t much to do in town with a little one. Mia has always loved party planning, and after seeing similar rentals pop up on social media, we thought it would be the perfect addition to the Pee Dee,” the women said.

Celebrating its first year, the women found success in playspace rentals for get-togethers for young children. While the company is focused in the Pee Dee, they will travel across South Carolina. Packages include delivery up to 15 miles from Hartsville, with additional miles for a small fee. “So far, we have traveled as far as Columbia for an event!”

“We have soft play blocks and climbing pieces, ball pits, bouncer animals, and slides, as well as two mini white bounce houses. With those items, we put together playspaces. All playspaces are designed to have something for little ones of all ability levels,” Mahn and Thomas said.

“We started Have a Ball (or as you’ll see us say, HAB) as a way for parents to have safe, affordable, and enjoyable play options for special celebrations or even just weekly playdates,” they said.

While this is a part-time venture for the women, Have A Ball aligns with their training and other careers.

Mahn taught elementary school for five years before becoming a mother and part-time reading interventionist at Plainview Elementary School, and a virtual assistant and podcast manager.

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“As a former teacher and mom to young children, Madison loves that soft play has both cognitive and physical development benefits such as improved motor skills, social skills, problem-solving, and creativity!”

Thomas, a USC alumni, has a marketing degree and works with nonprofits.

“I’ve since made a career out of non-profit development and marketing, and enjoy being able to put business strategies to use for causes I’m passionate about,” Thomas said. “I’m currently with Trent Hill Center, providing services to homeless youth and teens in foster care.”

Neutral soft play and pit packages “Our play spaces are best suited for little ones zero to five years (old). Once babies can crawl, our play spaces are the perfect way to safely entertain them!”

Have a Ball started its business with neutral soft play and ball pit packages. Clients are able to “match any theme you can dream.” They have added more color options, canopies for outdoor events, and white mini bounce houses. “Next, we’ll be focusing on more add-ons to bring all the special touches to celebrations.”

After celebrating 45 events in their first year, this year the women decided to add on children’s tables and chairs. They said they look forward to adding on high chair rentals for those perfect smash cake photos.

Thomas said she loves every aspect of party planning. Many of her core memories from growing up are having her whole family in a garage or backyard celebrating each other and having fun together.

And that makes the job more personal.

Close-knit family And as with most small businesses, it is a whole family affair.

“Our crew is very close! From family dinners each week to vacations and everyday life – we would likely be doing something together on the weekends anyway. HAB has given us both an outlet to explore our passions and creativity and grow closer as a family.

“You’ll see the two of us at set-ups, but we couldn’t do it without the support of Warner, Wil, our friend Alex, and our families! Our close friends have also been amazingly supportive, and know now they’re likely to see bouncers, a ball pit, and balls everywhere when they come over.”

Have A Ball 101: To ENTERTAIN • Playspace suitable for children zero to five years old • Soft play packages help children’s cognitive and physical developments • Packages start in the $200s and varies in size based on the number of children attending and the space available • Rentals include set up and breakdown • Hartsville- and Pee Dee-based but will travel

Mahn and Thomas are grateful to have the opportunity to meet local families and bring smiles to faces as children bounce around the room.

"It has been an honor to help families celebrate during our first year!"

Thomas said she finds so much joy in seeing everything come together.

“Most of all, we love bringing joy to little ones' faces. Every time we step back to snap pics of a completed playspace, we smile as we know the kids will “have a ball!”

Visit Haveaballhartsville.com for more info!

Find us on socials at @habhartsville

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BUSINESS

Rebekah Osman

Made From Scatch & Prepared With Love A delicious bakery located in Florence, South Carolina, Icing Ink offers everything from mouthwatering pastries and pies to gorgeous wedding and birthday cakes. Vip had the opportunity to sit down with owner Rebekah Osman to learn more about her made-from-scratch delicacies!

Rebekah Cook Osman and her husband, Scott, have been married for 28 years. They have three children, Sydney, Blake, and Zoe. Rebekah has a degree in Early Childhood Education from Francis Marion University. She taught school for eight years and then became a stay-at-home mom. Her time at home with children is when her love for baking truly came to life.

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How was your love of baking established?

What has been a favorite sweet you’ve ever made?

“I am from a large family. I have eight brothers and one sister. My mom baked every day. We always had dessert with our supper. She made all of our birthday cakes as well. Watching her is what made me fall in love with baking. My mom has been my inspiration in all areas of my life.

“I loved making a Strawberry Bavarian Cream Cake. It is quite a process. It usually takes me about four hours to make but the result is amazing. However, since the process is so long, I usually just make it for myself and my family.

When did you open Icing Ink? “On December 8th, 2014.

What do you love most, the baking or the decorating?

“I love baking the most. It is so fun creating or trying new recipes.

When it comes to decorating, I love to decorate cookies. It feels amazing when you finish decorating a cookie and see the final product. I couldn’t do Icing Ink without my decorator, Vicki Maddox. I love working with Vicki and watching simple cakes evolve into a piece of art. Especially our custom cakes.

How has Icing Ink evolved since you first opened?

“When I opened the doors almost ten years ago, it was Vicki and me. Now we have two more amazing employees, my daughter, Sydney Osman (my daughter) and Marsha Matthews.

Our selection of baked goods has grown. In the beginning, we only had a few cupcakes and cookies. Now we offer over 50 cupcake flavors, cookies, bars, dessert cakes, custom cakes, and more. We can also accommodate for vegan, gluten-free, sugar-free, and keto orders.

After baking all day, do you still enjoy eating sweets?

“I do love my sweets. I try not to think about them too much because I would end up eating too many. My favorite cake is a Kahlúa cake. We soak our chocolate cake with Kahlúa simple syrup, ice it with a decadent coffee buttercream, and drizzle it with a coffee ganache. It’s so delicious!

What are the hottest Valentine's items?

“Cake pop bouquets and chocolate-covered strawberries are everyone’s Valentine's favorite.

What do you love most about owning Icing Ink? “I love creating new baked goods and sampling them. Most of all I love meeting new people. It is such an honor that we get to see families grow, watching the kids get older through making their birthday cakes and even wedding cakes through the years. I love that we are a part of people’s celebrations.

We also help customers as they have gone through the loss of family members. We provide comfort during difficult times. Many of our customers have become like family to us through the years. I am truly blessed that God has allowed us to do what we love.

3360 West Palmetto Street, Florence, (843) 407-1470 www.icinginkbakeryflo.com

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December 2021

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