March 2023

December 2021

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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December 2021

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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December 2021

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magazine

Publisher Tammy Clark tmclark225@gmail.com

Creative Design Tuesday Taylor Ashley Rogers

Editor Heather Page heather@vipmagsc.com

Contributing Photographers A. Grafing Photography Ivana Raey Jones Photography MacKenzie Allen Photography Fred Salley Photography

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

Contributing Writers Annette Barnhill Kimberly Brauss Mark W. Buyck, III Cynthia Ford La’Quanita Goodman

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, email heather@vipmagsc.com.

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ISSUE 88

ABOUT THE COVER

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Page 20

FLORENCE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM'S BOOK OF THE MONTH 10 Sway With Me by Syed M. Masood

BUSINESS ON THE FRONT COVER: Hub's Farmland is excited to host its First Annual Rodeo on April 7th and 8th. In anticipation of the professional riders arriving, a Hub's Farmland regular, Banks, showed some love to his favorite horse for the Vip cover photo shoot. Thanks to Mackenzie Allen for capturing these sweet images.

See page 12 to learn more about Hub's Farmland.

12 Hub's Farmland 16 Willcox, Buyck & Williams, P.A.: Marion, USA 18 Carolina Picnic Chick: Popping Up Near You 20 Mercantile On Main: Fulfilling a Dream 22 The Pecan Shack: Woodworking With a Personal Flair 24 Montessori School of Florence: Problemsolvers. Initiative. Motivation

CALENDAR 28 March 2023: Fun Days and Events

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CONTENT: MARCH 23 GIFT GUIDE 30 What to Wear: Springy Greens

HEALTH 32 McLeod Health: Sonic Pressure Waves Assist in Complex Surgical Cases 34 HopeHealth: Stay Committed to Annual Pediatric Well Visits

LIFEST YLE 36 American Heart Association Heart Ball 38 Fizzy & Fun DIY Bath Bombs 40 Camp Blanton: What Defines His Art 42 James Naismith: The Inventor of Basketball

HOME 44 Doug Smith: Cooking to Save Money 46 Irish Recipes for St. Patrick's Day NEWSWORTHY 48 Business Happenings AROUND TOWN 50 Southeastern Bluegrass Concert

DRINK 52 La'Quantia Goodman: The Globetrotter Page 40

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VIP'S BOOK CLUB

Julie Vaught's, Teen Librarian at the Florence County Library System, Book Review of

SWAY WITH ME

BY SYED M. MASOOD Arsalan lives with his 100-year-old great-grandfather, who discourages technology and encourages learning and reading.

Arsalan doesn’t really have friends his age and with his mother dead and father out of the picture, he realizes when Nana, his great-grandfather dies, he will be alone. He decides to befriend Beenish, a girl at his school so that her stepmother can set him up with a girlfriend so he won’t be alone. Beenish is the exact opposite of Arsalan, brash, with a take no prisoners approach. She says she will help him but he must help her in return. She needs a partner to do a dance at her sister’s wedding. Although he has two left feet and knows nothing about dancing, he agrees. Beenish helps Arsalan navigate this new world, finding friends and family he never expected. The sparks fly between Beenish and Arsalan. Could they find love together, if only they can get out of their own ways?

While a romance, this is also a coming-of-age book. I like how it is told from the male’s perspective, which is not common in many romances. You see the growth between the two main characters, Arsalan and Beenish. While the Muslim religion could be considered to be covered in two extremes, it doesn’t hurt the book and helps people understand some of the rules and regulations of Muslims.

Syed M. M

asood

Please join the Friends of Florence County Library at their annual meeting on Thursday, March 2, 6:30 PM at the Doctors Bruce and Lee Foundation Library at 509 South Dargan Street in Florence.

In honor of National Read a Book Day, the guest author will be Rebecca Dwight Bruff. She will be presenting her book, Trouble the Water, based on the life of Robert Smalls, the man who escaped slavery at a young age, became a Union war hero, then a congressman. Among his accomplishments was legislation to make South Carolina the first state to require free public school for all. Books will be available for purchase at the event.

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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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BUSINESS

Demi Blackmon

Sug McMaster

Hub's Farmland FIRST ANNUAL RODEO Growing up on a farm has its advantages.

Little girls dream of one day having their very own pony. That dream can easily become a reality when you’re raised amongst cattle and horses. Some little girls, specifically Mary “Sug” Anderson McMaster, envisioned her kindergarten self even riding that pony to school. So that’s just what she did. That go-getting mentality still defines Sug. When she sets her mind to something, she goes and gets it.

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Now the proud owner of Hub’s Farmland in Timmonsville, with an entryway logo that is graced with her sweet late father’s face, Sug is surrounded by horses that she can ride anytime she’d like.

Sug’s most recent achievement is adding a Rodeo to her repertoire. This April, Hub’s Farmland will be filled with

professionals attempting to be the best at their sport of bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and so much more! Along with your typical rodeo activities, Sug has partnered with Tori Anderson, owner of An Anderson Event Company, to include kid’s activities, local vendors, and food trucks. It is an event for all ages!

Coincidentally, the event is scheduled on Sug's late son's birthday. His life was tragically taken in 2021. The rodeo organizers only had this date available, April 7th. Sug believes this is a Godwink. "We would like to use this event, this platform, as a way to remember the ones we've loved and lost too soon," says Sug. Hub’s Farmland is also excited to host a spring break camp and summer camps for little ones that are eager to ride, just like Sug once was. Teresa Blackmon, instructor extraordinaire, will be guiding children of all ages and skill levels as they navigate riding and caring for horses.

Event in loving memory of Herbert "Hub" Anderson, Jamison McMaster, Doris Rabon, Nicole Blackmon, Shane Simonsen, Hannah Skipper, and Barrett Frick.

Hub's Farmland 4341 Langston Road, Timmonsville See page 14-15 for more information on this year's First Annual Rodeo!

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BUSINESS

MARION, USA story by Mark W. Buyck, III

The Pee Dee and the Low Country abound with references and tributes to General Francis Marion, the “Swamp Fox” of the American Revolution. Our leaders from prior generations chose to name our local institution of higher learning “Francis Marion University”. Moviegoers visit the Swamp Fox Cinema.

Florence has a Swamp Fox Campground, liquor store, and security company. The city of Marion has numerous establishments referencing Swamp Fox as well as the longtime mascot for Marion High School. Over the years there have been hotels, nightclubs and country stores named for the Swamp Fox. One of the landmarks in downtown Charleston is the Francis Marion Hotel.

Visitors there can eat in the Swamp Fox Restaurant.

Not all references to Marion are commercial. Lake Marion is the largest lake in South Carolina, located in Clarendon County, an area well known to Marion. The United State’s Forest Service describes the Francis Marion National Forest as “…literally steeped in history.

Indeed, the wet boots of Revolutionary War soldiers under the command of Francis Marion himself splashed through the swamps of the present-day National Forest, protected only by the certainly of their enemy’s fear of alligators and snakes.”

The esteem which early generations of Americans held for Marion is clearly demonstrated by the number of towns, cities and counties named in his honor. In 1785, the South Carolina Legislature enacted the County Court Act. The Act established Liberty County in the Pee Dee area. In 1798, three years after General Marion’s death, the county was renamed Marion District in his honor. Marion County, Mississippi was formed in 1811. Marion counties were then established in Tennessee 1817 and Alabama 1818. Respect for Marion was not limited to the South as Marion counties were established in Indiana in 1822, Illinois 1823, Ohio 1824 and Missouri in 1826. Marion County, Georgia was formed in 1827, Kentucky in 1834 and Arkansas in 1836.

Marion County, Virginia was created in 1842 in western Virginia and is now part of the state of West Virginia.

Marion County, Florida was founded in 1844. As the

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Francis Marion in the Pee Dee has recently opened at the Florence County Museum. The exhibit features a collection of significant 19th century American artwork on loan from around the country.

Complementing the artwork is a collection of historical artifacts discovered from archeological activities in the area.

nation grew to the west, so did Marion. Marion County was established in Iowa in 1845 and Oregon in 1849.

Marion County, Kansas was established in 1855, six years before Kansas became a state. The 17th and final Marion County was established in Texas in 1860. Marion County, Oregon was originally named “Champooick District” before the Oregon territorial legislature renamed it in 1849. Salem, the State Capital, is located in the county.

The first town to be named in honor of the General was Marion, Georgia. It was established as the county seat of Twiggs County in 1810 and by the 1830s had a

a President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. DeWitt, Illinois was platted as Marion in 1836, but renamed after DeWitt Clinton, the former Governor of New York. East Columbia, Texas was founded as Marion in 1824 by a native South Carolinian.

Francis Marion

population of 3,500 people. The citizens refused to allow the railroad to pass through, and by 1868 the courthouse had relocated to Jeffersonville and the Post Office closed. For all intents and purposes it no longer exists. In 1822 the citizens of Muckle Ridge, Alabama determined to rename their town after Marion. Also in 1822, Marion, Ohio was established. In 1826 Winchester, New York renamed itself Marion. Marions were created in Virginia (1832), Pennsylvania (1833), Iowa (1839), and Illinois (1839). East Marion, New York was also established in 1836. Point Marion was established in Pennsylvania in 1842. Marion, Kentucky was founded in 1842 and Marion, North Carolina in 1845. The South Carolina legislature formally recognized the town of Marion as the county seat of Marion County in 1847. Sippican, Massachusetts was founded in 1679. In 1852 the citizens determined to rename their town in honor of Marion. Marion, Mississippi was established before the Civil War and Marion, Kansas also in 1860. Marion, Wisconsin was established in 1880.

In addition to cities and towns there are five boroughs named for Marion in Pennsylvania including Marion Center, Marion Heights, and Point Marion. Arkansas has seven different counties with a Marion township, Michigan (5), and Pennsylvania (4). There are a number of towns in the western United States named Marion; however, many of these were railroad towns and their namesakes a superintendent of the railroad or his daughter (e.g., Florence, S.C.). Marion, Utah is not named after the General. Its namesake is Francis Marion Lyman,

The largest of these cities is Marion, Iowa with 41,535 residents. It is essentially a suburb of Cedar Rapids, although it has had its own identity since its founding in 1839. It celebrates its heritage annually with the Swamp Fox Festival. Marion County, Indiana encompasses the city of Indianapolis, the Capital of Indiana. Its population is nearly 1 million residents.

Ocala is located within Marion County, Florida, which has a population of 375,908.

Marion County, Oregon has 345,920 residents. By contrast, Marion County, Georgia has a population of 7,498 and Marion County, Texas 9,725.

It is generally agreed that with the exception of George Washington, there are more places and landmarks named for Marion than any other participant in the Revolutionary War. His fame and esteem lives on for future generations.

General Francis Marion sculpture by Alex Palkovich in Johnsonville

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 March 2023

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Carolina Picnic Chick

BUSINESS BUSINESS

POPPING UP NEAR YOU

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The most interesting new concept in spoiling the one(s) you love is “popping up” around the Pee Dee. Outdoors, intimate, and catered, luxury pop-up picnic business, Carolina Picnic Chick offers elevated special occasion dining.

Perfect for celebrations like date nights, bachelorette parties, engagements, “prom”posals, and birthday parties, there are currently three signature picnic packages offered on the website, but they will also entertain custom picnic dreams. “Our most popular picnic has been The Bohemian, which brings boho style to the outdoor dining experience, including neutral, gauzy fabrics, pampas grass, bamboos, natural woods, earthy textile hues and brass touches,” states Suzy Moyd, picnic stylist and picnic-preneur. Other wellloved themes include a red and white gingham “Classic Southern,” and a lemony yellow “Amalfi Coast.”

She’s also had fun planning custom picnics. “I had a request for a Harry Potter-style picnic and a not-sospooky Monster Mash picnic. I love sourcing specialty fabrics, mixing modern finds with custom pieces from vintage and thrift stores, and building some of my own accents, so I can really accommodate any one-of-akind themes!” Luxury picnics are gaining popularity nationwide, and are being embraced for all kinds of unique celebrations, like a new home purchase, or a pet’s birthday!

Carolina Picnic Chick partners with area restaurants to bring delicious box lunches filled with customer’s favorites, like exotic charcuteries, or wholesome chicken salad croissants. Some have likened the business to an “experiential Uber Eats.” For Valentine’s Day, the picnics included custom cupcakes and chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Besides luxurious ambiance like fresh flower arrangements, place settings and napkins, Carolina Picnic Chick also offers next-level accessories like a cordless record player with bluetooth speaker, lawn games like giant Jenga, Connect Four, and cornhole boards. There are also stylized backdrops and custom signage. Another favorite is the “artist’s package” with easels and paint sets, for a leisurely day of water coloring in the park.

The current service area is Hartsville, Darlington, and Florence, but she has traveled as far as the beach.

Currently, she offers intimate seating for parties of two, but can accommodate up to 20 guests, and looks forward to growing the business for even bigger, luxe events and offering stylizing tablescapes for events in the future.

Insta-worthy picnic settings have included public parks, beaches, restaurants, and even the comfort of clients’ own backyards! It’s the easy way for hosts or hostesses to entertain - without the hassle of setup and cleanup.

Suzy Moyd

Suzy is married to John and lives on a farm in Hartsville and has 3 grown children, Caitlyn, Holly, and Jacob.

A. Grafing Photography

“Our Bloody Mary Bar setup is also very popular.

It’s not really a picnic, but it’s definitely a hit at parties!

It includes everything you need for the spicy tomato cocktail except the alcohol, like olives, pickled asparagus, limes, rim salt, and even meat straws! My husband designed the wooden display box for tailgating, and I fill it with a large, curated collection of gourmet garnishes.

It’s a crowd pleaser!”

When asked about her very first booked picnic, she said, “I was so nervous but then I realized, I get to play with cupcakes and plan a party in a park. How fun is that? This is really a dream job. And to see the wowfactor in the eyes of the guests when they arrived? Best.

Day. Ever.”

“I love branding, promotion, and marketing,” she continues, “our ‘new normal’ after the world took a pandemic pause was the inspiration to start something fun that brought people back together. I enjoy imagining the ‘what-if’s’ and the best parts of my eclectic resume, (from the fruit shop to downtown economic development), have been when I was in the community and helping people every day. I love celebrating people’s successes with them,” states Moyd. As a 2018 breast cancer survivor, she likes to say “That was a short chapter in what I pray will be a very long book! My advice? Follow your passion. Be intentional. Do what you love every day!”

For VIP Readers, Carolina Picnic Chick is offering a special discount package for $150 for a setting up to 4 people that includes a floral bouquet, charcuterie board, signature lemonade, and a custom tablescape.

For information, or to partner your business for future picnics, contact Suzy at 843.230.5837 or hello@carolinapicnicchick.com.

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BUSINESS

Melanie Graves & Dana Rogers (owner)

Fulfilling a Lifetime Dream MERCANTILE ON MAIN • MARION, SC story by Annette Barnhill Over the past several years, Downtown Marion, South Carolina, has seen a boom in their Main Street businesses. Part of that growth came when Dana Rogers saw an opportunity to fulfill a lifetime dream of owning a business. On August 18th of 2022, Dana’s 45th birthday, she turned that dream into a reality and opened Mercantile on Main. Filled with beautiful home décor, Dana is thrilled to offer locals and those visiting the sweet town of Marion, a special sercie to brighten the day.

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Dana moved to Marion when she was a young girl and admired their downtown area. “Opening a store on Main Street has always been something I wanted to do. I love to contribute to my community and would do anything to add value to our town,” she says. “I love seeing our Main Street thrive and in December of 2021, God started opening doors that led me to open Mercantile on Main. I had the full support of my family, friends, and pastors. Because of my relationship with God and my strong faith, I was able to take the leap of faith to follow my dreams.”

Home decorating has always been a hobby of Dana’s.

While Mercantile on Main is filled with new eclectic pieces, she also enjoys incorporating the old vintage pieces with the new. “We carry a wide range of home décor to include tabletop, florals, wall art, and textiles.

We are also building our gift selection. We currently carry items for baby showers, wedding showers, newly added jewelry, and general everyday gifts.” Dana enjoys finding upcoming trends and hot items to fill her store and couples that with her own flair.

Visit Mercantile on Main Facebook page, @ mercantileonmainmarionsc, to see more of what Mercantile on Main has in store!

When not working on her dream job at Mercantile on Main, Dana is a 20-year employee of DHEC where she serves as the Administrative Coordinator to the Region Health Director. This is also where she met her “right-hand girl,” Melanie Graves. “She and I worked together at DHEC for many years," says Dana. "When Melanie retired, I told her to not get too busy, I may have something up my sleeve. When I mentioned the plan to her, she was immediately on board! Melanie is one of the most trustworthy, dependable, and hardworking people I know.” The pair enjoys joking around but when it comes to business, they are ready to rock and roll.

When asked what a favorite moment since opening the store has been, Dana has a great story to share. “One of my favorite moments was on a Saturday, a few months after I opened. It had been a slow week and honestly, I was a little discouraged and began second-guessing my decision to chase my dream. A customer came in early that morning and ended up staying most of the day. We talked about decorating and as the conversation continued, a friendship developed. She shared her testimony and became an inspiration to me. I believe that was a divine appointment for God to remind me that he is leading me and to keep the faith. This special customer comes to see me often and always brightens my day. She was truly sent to me by God on that special day and I will never forget that.”

Mercantile on Main has been welcomed by the City of Marion and its citizens. Dana describes the downtown atmosphere as a sense of community and family, almost a Hallmark feeling. She says, “Our Historic Marion Revitalization Association is an exceptional association to be a part of and does an awesome job at promoting our downtown and making a way for us to revitalize our Main Street.”

Spring is the perfect time to add some new items to your home décor and Mercantile on Main has just what you need.

Dana and Melanie are excited to greet you and help you find your new favorite piece!

Dana Rogers has raised two beautiful children, Morgon Wallace (Jay) and Grayson Rogers. After raising her children, she went back to school where she earned a BA in Business Administration/Management from Florida Institute of Technology. She is a 20-year employee of the Department of Health and Environmental Control.

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BUSINESS

Woodworking with a Personal Flair THE PECAN SHACK • FLORENCE, SC Creativity at its finest comes in the form of a perfectly curated wooden collection for Ashley and Scott Smith. Through a side hustle known as The Pecan Shack, the couple creates personalized pieces for every occasion. What began as a woodworking hobby has transpired into a full-fledged business venture.

In 2018, Scott began creating wooden momentums for his family. Yard signs and custom benches made from his family’s headboards were a couple of Scott’s first pieces. “From the beginning, I was immediately hooked. After creating the yard signs, I moved on to start making door hangers and other small décor items,” Scott said. “Around that time, a friend of mine, Lauren Urquhart, was remodeling her home and basically bullied me into building all of her furniture. I had absolutely no idea what I was doing but with her encouragement, Ashley’s support, and several YouTube videos, I got to work. Lauren has a large local following on social media and through her marketing assistance, within a few weeks I was booked out for six months.”

These personalized items allowed Scott and Ashley to see the potential in a talent they didn’t realize they had. Deciding on a name for the business was the easy part. “We have several pecan trees in our yard,” said Scott. “I envision us one day having a shabby, rustic store that looks like a shack from the outside. Somehow the two words came together – The Pecan Shack!”

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While things were going amazingly well for The Pecan Shack, Scott’s dad fell ill and unfortunately Scott couldn’t keep up with the demands of working full-time as an RN, woodworking, and helping care for his father. So Ashley took over and started focusing more on home décor pieces. “After seeing how much she enjoyed it, we invested in laser engraving/cutting machines,” said Scott. “This opened up our business to be able to do ornaments, earrings, signage, and to personalize almost anything.”

Today, The Pecan Shack creates personalized event pieces for weddings, birthdays, graduations, baby showers, and nurseries. Additionally, they have a large collection of earrings, both wooden and acrylic, bookmarks, and magnets. “Some of my favorite pieces are custom engraved pictures or memorial items,” says Ashley. “I love to engrave a picture someone has captured on their camera and make it last a lifetime.”

Scott and Ashley get most of their inspiration from their customers. “For example, our most recent favorite was inspired by Vickie Elliott. She sent us a poem before Christmas along with a picture of the loved ones she wanted to gift it to for Christmas. It was absolutely beautiful. Our customers are so much more to us than just a customer. We have made many lasting friendships throughout this journey and are forever grateful.”

Follow Pecan Shack on Facebook!

“Some of my favorite pieces are custom engraved pictures or memorial items,” says Ashley. “I love to engrave a picture someone has captured on their camera and make it last a lifetime.”

While working with a spouse has its challenges, Scott and Ashley are navigating it like pros. “It has been a huge blessing to do this with my husband,” says Ashley. “We both have our strengths and weaknesses. Where one of us might lack, the other one fills the void. I’m sure I drive him crazy, my workflow is not of an average person. My ADHD plays a lot into my life but it certainly makes things interesting for both of us.” Scott includes, “Ashley’s ADHD is actually a huge benefit because we almost always look at situations, projects, and our work from completely different perspectives. This allows for a naturally ‘outside the box’ thinking to almost everything we do.”

Ashley credits Scott for helping her discover her woodworking passion. “Scott is the hardest working man I know. He puts his heart and soul into everything he does and has built something beautiful because of that. I am so lucky and blessed to have him in my corner.”

As for 2023, The Pecan Shack is gearing up for several events. Shoppers can find them at this year’s First Annual Rodeo at Hub’s Farmland on April 7th and 8th. They will have several new products on display, including those with a western flair. Additionally, you can find The Pecan Shack at the Carolina Trading Post located at 4105 South Irby Street in Florence.

Ashley and Scott will be married for ten years this June. They have two littles, Charlie (6) and Jackson (2). When not crafting new work at The Pecan Shack, Ashley is a stay-at-home mom and Scott is a Registered Nurse at McLeod in the coronary care unit.

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BUSINESS

story by Kimberly Brauss | photos by Ivana Reay Jones Photography

Problem-solvers.

Initiative.

Motivation.

“We are working to make good adults who are happy, healthy, kind and successful by their own measure of success,” said Elizabeth Kahn, who not only is the director of the Montessori School of Florence but also has been a lawyer, Montessori parent and student.

“The main difference between a traditional classroom and a Montessori classroom is individualized instruction.”

Montessori, the method for learning that builds upon the way a child naturally learns, originated with Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, who opened her first school in Rome in 1907.

Montessori developed her method and theories through child-centered scientific experimentation, suggesting children learn best in an environment that emphasizes independence and gives space to a child’s natural psychological, physical and social development. Montessori theory has five categories of milestones: order, language, sensory skills, movement, and social skills.

The Montessori teaching style gained popularity quickly. By 1912, Montessori became a sought-after speaker in the United States and more than 100 schools were running a year later.

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The Montessori School of Florence began in 1976 as one Primary class held in a private home. After several other iterations, in 1999, the school moved to its present location at 510 W. Palmetto St. and added the elementary programs.

“We provide the children with a prepared environment – a neat and orderly classroom made to be inviting for the child with work arranged where they can easily access it – and with a prepared adult – a lead teacher who is trained and ready to guide the child in his or her learning,” Kahn said. “Many of the materials we use in the classrooms are the same as those found in Montessori classrooms around the world. However, we supplement these traditional materials with modern updates such as age-appropriate iPads for research, keyboarding, and other updates to the curriculum as needed. All of our curriculum is aligned with and meets and exceeds the SC state standards.”

During the past several years, the Montessori School of Florence school acquired several properties and now has an over 4-acre campus with two classroom buildings, a garden, playing fields, playgrounds, and an outdoor classroom. The new year brought the completed renovation of the Maverick Center, and this space houses the upper elementary classes and the gymnasium.

“The main difference between a traditional classroom and a Montessori classroom is individualized instruction. The teachers do not give lessons or instruction to the whole class at the same time,” Kahn said. “The teacher will do individual or small group lessons for only those students who are ready for that work or concept at that time. Beginning in the 5K year, students have daily work plans that they put together with the help and supervision of the teacher. As they mature, students create weekly work plans that they are expected to complete. A core concept of Montessori is to ‘follow the child’ and provide each child with what they need when they need it.”

When watching a Montessori classroom, the casual observer may not see the structure within the setting. They may see children of three age levels learning in one classroom, but they’re being challenged according to their abilities. Through growth, development and achievements, children are inspired to become leaders, mentors and encouragers to their classmates. Child-to-child teaching, group problem solving and socialization often motivates younger students to learn what their older classmates are doing.

“Many people think that children in a Montessori classroom are free to do whatever they want, whenever they want,” Kahn said, “However, Montessori offers freedom within well-defined limits. Our students know what work they are expected to accomplish and then have the freedom to choose when to complete what work and in what order...

“Many people think that children in a Montessori classroom are free to do whatever they want, whenever they want,” Kahn said, “However, Montessori offers freedom within well-defined limits. Our students know what work they are expected to accomplish and then have the freedom to choose when to complete what work and in what order. They can pause to take a break and return to the work later when they are ready to continue. Our teachers and assistants are trained to observe the children and offer them a new lesson when they are ready or encourage them to practice or return to a work if they are unfocused.”

While students are provided with uninterrupted time to concentrate, it’s also understood that they are a part of their classroom community and the community has certain expectations. Like traditional schooling, the children are expected to respect each other, the adults in the classroom, and the environment. Jackie Boatwright, Lead Teacher in the Pre-Primary (2K) classroom, explains, “My first personal introduction to the method was through observation purposes for early childcare classes. I was totally blown away by how peacefully the children interacted with each other. The ability of three different grade levels to work together in one class helping each other was amazing. Maria Montessori saw something wonderful through the eyes of the child and that's what meeting each child where he or she is and helping them to grow at their own pace looks like.

Montessori cherishes each child's differences.”

“We begin each school year reviewing or teaching lessons in all classrooms on grace and courtesy,” Kahn said. “Many people who observe one of our classrooms during a work cycle comment on how quiet and calm it is and how focused the students are on their individual work.”

Brice Elvington, a Montessori School of Florence parent, says he loves the family feel of the school. He continues, “Our children have an opportunity to become friends with students that are older and younger, and they get to know their siblings of different ages as well. When they work in groups together, this is also more reflective of the real world – where people from different backgrounds and ages may be working together as a team. The Montessori teaching method is different from what you would expect to see in a traditional classroom. The students receive a more personal approach to their instruction. They are given extra time if needed to help them master one area, but also encouraged to move ahead if they are ready to tackle the next level. They also have the freedom to explore their interests. This even carries over at home, where our kids often want to continue reading about something introduced at school. For the most part, projects are completed during the school day, which allows more time after school for play, reading, and pursuing extracurricular activities.”

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BUSINESS

The Montessori School of Florence offers education in grades 3K through sixth grade.

“We have multi-age classrooms divided up along developmental planes – our Primary classes include 3K-5K, Lower Elementary classes include grades 1-3, and Upper Elementary classes include grades 4-6,” Kahn said.

Famous Montessori Alumni

After which children likely move onto schools with traditional classrooms.

“One of the most commonly asked questions by parents who are new to Montessori is how our students do when they eventually transition to a traditional classroom in middle school or high school. They transition very well! We hear back from teachers at local middle schools that they love having our students in their classes because they are independent and seem to love learning,” Kahn said. “They are problem-solvers who are happy to talk to their teacher and ask questions and they take the initiative to create solutions. They have internal motivation to accomplish tasks both in and out of school. I like to tell parents that we are working to make good adults who are happy, healthy, kind, and successful by their own measure of success.”

Known for being strong and capable people, Montessori alumni also model initiative, independence, sound judgment, and work well with others. Below are Montessori graduates who are well-known: • Stephen Curry, NBA MVP (Golden State Warriors) • Julia Child, chef, author, TV personality • Chelsea Clinton, daughter of former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; vice-chair of the Clinton Foundation; and author • Anthony Doerr, author, Pulitzer Prize recipient • Helen Hunt, Emmy Award winning actor • Gabriel García Marquez, author, Nobel Prize in Literature recipient • Morgan Saylor, actor • Will C. Smith, Jr., Maryland State Senator • Taylor Swift, GRAMMY Award winner • Will Wright, video-game designer (SimCity, Spore) • His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge SOURCE: American Montessori Society

To find out more about The Montessori School of Florence, located at 510 W. Palmetto St. in Florence, call 843-629-2920 or visit florencemontessori.org/

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GIFT GUIDE

Springy

Greens

what to wear

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6 1 Cheetah Detail Short Sleeve Ruffle Shoulder Top 2 Brakish Thi Cuff

Swoon Boutique, Marion

Goosie Ganders, Florence

3 Acrylic Link Textured Metal Earrings Lillie K's Boutique, Mullins 4 Like Dreams Randall Scrunchie Crossbody Agathoulas, Florence 5 Southern Tide Polo

Palmetto Outpost, Florence, Marion & Dillon

6 Sanctuary Clothing Terrain Pull on Pant in Palm Camo

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Trendy Twist Boutique, Florence

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HEALTH + WELLNESS

Dr. Ravi Parikh and Dr. Carmen Piccolo review the patient scans where sonic pressure waves were used to break up severely calcified plaque.

This device uses sonic pressure waves to help restore blood flow to blocked arteries.

Sonic Pressure Waves Assist in Complex Surgical Cases

Plaque, which is a collection of calcium, cholesterol, and fat, can build up in the body’s blood vessels restricting blood flow. This blood flow restriction can lead to multiple health issues including heart attack, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.

As people grow older the soft plaque in the arteries undergo changes, calcifying and becoming a hard plaque. The amount of calcification in the coronary arteries is correlated to the risk of coronary disease, vascular disease, and heart attacks.

With blocked arteries the standard method of treatment is to open the artery with a small balloon over a catheter wire. A stent, a small metal mesh tube that helps keep the artery open, is then placed into the artery.

For patients with severely calcified arteries, this calcium can cause complications. The severity of the calcium build-up can limit the physician’s access to the artery with the balloon, as well as prevent placement of the stent. Of the approximately one million patients that undergo a stent procedure each year, 30 percent have problematic calcium which increases their risk

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for adverse events, according to the American College of Cardiology.

At McLeod, we have multiple technologies available that allows Interventional Cardiologists to restore blood flow to the heart by safely penetrating the problematic calcium. Technologies such as rotational and orbital atherectomy, a revolving instrument to break up the calcified plaque, and Intravascular Lithotripsy, a device that functions like a drill using sonic pressure waves.

Once opened the artery can then be expanded, and blood flow restored with the placement of a stent.

The Intravascular Lithotripsy technology is an adaptation of the lithotripsy used for decades to safely break up kidney stones. With the sonic pressure waves, also known as Shockwaves, the calcium is fractured with minimal damage to normal arterial tissue. This techique is performed through a catheter inserted into the narrowed vessel.

While Intravascular Lithotripsy is a useful tool in cardiac procedures it has also become a valuable addition for more complex procedures at McLeod with

For Vascular Surgeons like Dr. Piccolo, Intravascular Lithotripsy is a valuable addition for complex procedures.

The best way to prevent or slow the progression of calcium build-up in the arteries comes from living a healthy lifestyle.

This includes: • Eating a heart healthy diet – especially limiting cholesterol, fat, and sodium • Exercising regularly • Quitting smoking • Losing weight Cardiac and Vascular Surgeries such as Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair, minimally invasive revascularizations and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased heart valve. It is performed similar to a heart catheterization. The physician inserts a catheter, a long flexible thin tube with the artificial valve, through a small incision in the groin to the heart. The Shockwaves technology ensures safer access of severely calcified vessels for the precise positioning of the new valve and opens the eligibility to more patients.

• Controlling blood pressure, sugar, and lipid levels Calcium build-up in the arteries is not reversible but with this new innovative therapy for the treatment of advanced heart and vascular disease, McLeod Interventional Cardiologists and McLeod Vascular Surgeons are able to safely modify the calcified plaque returning more patients back to a quality of life they once knew.

In the vascular specialty, patients requiring an endovascular aneurysm repair, who have severely calcified target lesions, also benefit from Intravascular Lithotripsy.

An aneurysm is an enlarged, balloon-like bulge, and weakened section of a blood vessel. The most common type of aneurysm is the abdominal aortic aneurysm. Most aneurysms occur in the aorta, the largest blood vessel that comes out of the heart and provides blood to the rest of the body.

The traditional surgical treatment method involves sealing off the aneurysm with the placement of an endovascular graft stent. This stent is a fabric-covered metallic scaffold that is inserted into the aneurysm to protect it from bursting or continuing to grow. The procedure is performed using a catheter through two small injections in the groin area, so again clear access of the artery is imperative.

Intravascular Lithotripsy can also be used to support the treatment of peripheral arterial disease, which would involve restoring blood flow by clearing blockages in the patient’s leg.

Calcium deposits in the arteries are not related to diet or any supplements taken. They occur because the cells in the blood vessels are not working as they should. This can be a sign of heart or vascular disease or simply getting older.

While calcification can happen at any age, the prevalence occurs in 90 percent of men and 67 percent of women older than 70. Those with high body mass index, high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease or a family history of calcification are more susceptible.

Ravi Parikh, MD

Carmen Piccolo, MD

Dr. Ravi Parikh is an Interventional Cardiologist with McLeod Cardiology Associates and is accepting new patients.

Self-referrals are welcome. Appointments with Dr. Parikh can be made by calling 843-667-1891.

Dr. Carmen Piccolo is a Vascular Surgeon with McLeod Vascular Associates and is accepting new patients with physician referrals.

For information on appointments with Dr. Piccolo, call 843-777-7043.

McLeod Interventional Cardiologist

McLeod Vascular Surgeon

For more information, visit McLeodHealth.org.

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HEALTH ++ WELLNESS WELLNESS HEALTH

Atalee Jones, PA-C Atalee Jones is a physician assistant serving patients of HopeHealth at the HopeHealth Medical Plaza as well as other locations.

She has a Master of Medical Science-PA Medicine from North Greenville University in Greer, SC, a Master of Public Health from Liberty University, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC. Jones is a member of the South Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants and is involved in volunteer organizations.

STAY COMMITTED TO

ANNUAL PEDIATRIC WELL VISITS story by Atalee Jones, PA-C, HopeHealth

Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to children and adolescents.

When was the last time your children had a wellness checkup?

Most parents know the importance of regular wellness visits for their children, especially during the first years when tracking early growth and developmental milestones. However, data show that annual checkups decline as children age and transition into adulthood.

According to the CDC, while the percentage of children aged 0-17 years who received a well-child checkup increased from 75.8% in 2008 to 86.5% in 2018, the percentage of children who received a well-child checkup decreased as age increased.

It is understandable that as kids get older, some parents may view well visits as less necessary, especially when there are so many needs competing for their time. Balancing work with their children’s school requirements and activities, extracurriculars, and other personal obligations can mean well visits get put off or are viewed as simply unneeded - families may save trips to the doctor’s office for occasional illnesses and injuries.

The reality is, however, well visits are equally as important as sick visits. They involve pertinent screenings and education topics that are crucial to a child’s health as they grow into adulthood. Preventive care can help children adopt healthy habits, avoid illness, and detect problems early to promote better outcomes.

So, what are some of the things that providers address with children and adolescents during their annual well visit?

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• WELL VISITS FOR CHILDREN In addition to following growth and developmental milestones (e.g. motor function, language, problem solving), we perform routine screenings for issues like lead exposure and anemia, and identify concerns including poor growth patterns, poor sleep hygiene, and abnormal behaviors. We also initiate healthy habits such as routine dental care with fluoride treatments, discuss the importance of hygiene, promote nutrition, and provide routine childhood immunizations.

These services help boost wellness and prepare children for transitioning into adolescence and developing greater independence.

• WELL VISITS FOR ADOLESCENTS For adolescents, wellness visits focus on assessing progression of growth and developmental milestones into adulthood. We do routine screenings for things like STDs, provide vaccinations, ensure established care with dentistry, and emphasize good general hygiene, especially as adolescents enter puberty.

Providers also encourage good eating and exercise habits, address topics like sexual health, substance use, peer pressure, and menstrual cycles, and assess mental health problems such as stress reactions, depression, and anxiety.

• SCHOOL-BASED CLINICS An alternative to traditional doctor’s offices that offers accessible care for children and adolescents is the School-Based Clinic. School-Based Clinics offer parents a convenient way to ensure their children’s health is being well managed, without needing to take kids out of school to visit the doctor. As an extension of a school’s nursing team, School-Based Clinics offer well visit services including physicals, dental care, and immunizations. Students can also visit the clinic for minor illnesses and injuries, behavioral health counseling, and obtain referrals as needed. School staff can also take advantage of school-based clinic services, depending on location.

If you would like to schedule your child for a well visit or would like to learn more about HopeHealth School-Based Clinics, contact HopeHealth at (843) 667-9414.

Help prevent sick visits for your children tomorrow with well visits today!

HopeHealth offers School-Based Clinics in Timmonsville at Brockington Elementary School, Lake City at Lake City High School, and in Manning at Manning High School.

For students seeking care at the school-based clinic, parents can give permission to treat them at the beginning of the school year or as needed. Students are then called from their non-core classes to be seen in the clinic. After the visit, parents are contacted as needed and are able to obtain a full report from the visit.

360 N IRBY STREET, FLORENCE 843.667.9414 | HOPE-HEALTH.ORG

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HOME LIFESTYLE

The 2023 Pee Dee Heart Ball will be held on March 25th at the Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology (SiMT). Through the Heart of Pee Dee Heart Ball Campaign, the organization celebrates its collective success in driving change, funding science, and improving behaviors – no matter where, or how, they gather.

That means taking efforts beyond the ballroom and working every day to help every heart.

Heart Ball supporters unite with a shared purpose to raise the critical funds needed to ensure the work continues. Throughout the campaign, milestones are celebrated, sponsors are thanked, and heroes are honored.

This year's celebrated hero comes in a small package that loves to dance, ride bumper cars, and has an infectious smile… one-year-old Levi Williams.

Levi was born on April 13th, 2021, at 37 weeks via emergency C-section.

Even though anatomy scans were done before his birth, it was undetected that Levi would be born with dextrocardia, pulmonary atresia, and a very large AVSD (atrioventricular septal defect), a congenital heart defect in which there are holes between the right and left sides of the heart.

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At only eight days old, Levi underwent his first open heart surgery to place a shunt to get good blood from his heart to his lungs. At six months old, Levi returned for his second open heart surgery to upsize his shunt. “It has been a tough journey,” says Levi’s mom Chelsea Winburn. She continues, “With multiple hospital stays, cardiologist appointments every month, and daily medicines, Levi remains this spunky little boy who can conquer it all.”

Levi will undergo his next surgery in two to four months to have his full repair, which means they will upsize his shunt and attempt to repair the AVSD. “This will be his most extreme surgery to date as multiple things are needing to be repaired,” says Chelsea. “Even though Levi cannot tell me yet how he feels or what he thinks of everything he’s been through, I have kept a daily journal of his hospital stays. I write about his accomplishments for the day and the things the medical team at MUSC has done for him so one day he can read them and realize how tough of a little boy he is!”

Chelsea is thankful for the American Heart Association (AHA) and the research they continue to do for people like Levi. “We have to do research to better understand heart defects and to find a cure. The AHA is outstanding at the work they have done and continues to show its love and support for Levi. For that, I am eternally grateful.

2023 PEE DEE HEART BALL Saturday, March 25, 2023 SiMT | Florence, SC For more information, please contact: Your Heart Ball Team PeeDeeSC@heart.org | 843.858.4257 Our Mission: To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Our mission drives everything we do.

We live fierce and fight for all.

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HEALTH + WELLNESS LIFESTYLE

Fizzy & Fun DIY Bath Bombs Are you looking for a fun Saturday afternoon project?

Try these easy DIY bath bombs! You can even spruce them up by adding your favorite essential oil to enhance your bath time relaxation.

TOOLS: • 1 large mixing bowl • 1 medium jar with lid • Bath bomb mold or mini- or regular-size muffin pans

INGREDIENTS: • 1 cup baking soda • 1/2 cup citric acid (as an alternative, use the same amount of either lemon juice or 1/4 cup each of baking powder and apple cider vinegar) • 1/2 cup Epsom salt • 1/2 cup cornstarch • 3/4 tbsp. water • 2 tsp. of your favorite essential oil • 2 tbsp. of sweet almond oil or olive oil • A few drops of food coloring (if desired) • Optional: dried flowers or herbs

BATH BOMB INSTRUCTIONS: Step 1: With the exception of citric acid, mix the dry ingredients in the bowl.

Step 2: Pour all of the liquid ingredients into a jar with a top. Close the jar and shake it vigorously.

Step 3: Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, using your hands to combine and meld together.

Step 4: Once mixed, slowly add in the citric acid.

You'll most likely notice a slight fizzing reaction because of the citric acid, this is normal. The mixture will be slightly crumbly.

Step 5: Mash the mixture very tightly into your chosen molds. You can overfill the molds slightly and use a spoon or glass to press the mixture in as tightly as possible. Immediately loosen the bombs from their molds onto wax paper and let them dry overnight.

Step 6: Allow the bath bombs to dry for 48 hours before using them.

NOW IT’S TIME TO ENJOY!

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LIFESTYLE

CAMP BLANTON Something about the bold colors and brushstrokes immediately identifies the piece of art as Camp Blanton’s work. The landscapes, puppy portraits, and building faces currently adorn the walls of Cru Wine & Tap in Florence, adding extra brightness to the atmosphere. Vip had the opportunity to sit down with Camp and find out more about what defines his art.

Camp Blanton is a class of 96’ West Florence graduate. He gained a BS in Marketing from Clemson University. After moving back to Florence, he had a very brief stint as a plumbing supplier before starting with McCall Farms in 2001. Camp has been selling Peanut Patch Boiled Peanuts for more than 20 years now.

He is married to his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth, and they have two girls, Emma and Eliza.

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To see more of Camp’s artwork, visit Cru Wine & Tap. To request a commission piece, message him on Facebook at Camp Blanton Art.

Q. How has your art evolved?

“I think I have certainly improved over the years, I would say that I have learned to prep and plan with more of a vision, rather than just throwing paint on the canvas.”

Q. What has been a favorite piece you’ve created?

Q. When did you become attracted to art?

“I have been drawing and painting since I could hold a pencil. My parents had me take private art lessons at a young age. I remember Ms. Vickie Slaven and Ms. Ann Finch like it was yesterday. I always looked forward to art classes in school. I minored in art at Clemson.”

“I’m not sure that I have a favorite, however, I do really like a new one that I’ve been working on. I found an old postcard of the 1969 Garden City pier, the one Hurricane Hugo destroyed, and remembered that the Village Surf Shop opened that same year. So the painting is me imagining what that scene might have looked like.”

Q. What artist do you admire?

“Oil and acrylic but I also like to explore other mediums.”

“Definitely Monet. I also love all of the great New Orleans artists – James Michalopoulos, Falicyavera, and George Rodrigue are a few.”

Q. What type of art do you create?

Q. Do you take commission work?

“I like to do a little bit of everything.

Landscapes, dogs, and music-inspired stuff. I am still figuring it out, I just enjoy the journey. I would love to one day have enough confidence to do portraits, but I am not even slightly close. Our family has always spent a lot of time going to Garden City, South Carolina, so I am also inspired by anything coastal – sunsets, water, etcetera.”

“Yes. I’ve done several dog portraits, sports-themed topics, and homes.”

Q. What mediums do you prefer?

Q. What does your color pallet typically consist of?

“I gravitate towards bright and bold colors…I guess they make me happy.”

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LIFESTYLE

Basketball doesn’t build character, it reveals it.

-James Naismith

James Naismith | THE INVENTOR OF BASKETBALL

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In December of 1891, physical education director, James Naismith, was given the task of creating an indoor sport for his students at Springfield College (then known as the School for Christian Workers).

Located in Massachusetts, outdoor sports were often too cold and therefore too dangerous during winter months. The students spent warmer months playing football and soccer and would grow bored during the winter running soft routines in the gymnasium. When the project was placed in the hands of Naismith, he worked quickly to fill the void and in turn created one of America’s favorite sports, the game of basketball.

Instead of two 18-inch square boxes like Naismith requested from the school janitor, he was given two peach baskets. He nailed them to the lowest rail of the gymnasium balcony, one at each end of the court. Each time a goal was made, someone would have to scale the balcony to retrieve the ball.

This led them to eventually cut the bottoms out of the peach baskets so the ball could fall loose on its own. Because Naismith’s class consisted of 18 men, basketball was originally played with nine on each side. It wasn’t until 1897 that this number changed to five players on each side.

An avid sportsman, Naismith attempted to incorporate popular sports into his game – soccer, football, lacrosse, and field hockey, while also eliminating body contact between players. The new sport required that it had to be fairly easy yet interesting, playable indoors or on any kind of surface, played by a large number of players all at once, and provide plenty of exercise. As a child, Naismith played something called duck on a rock in his hometown of Bennie’s Corners, Ontario. In this game, the goal was high enough that you would have to toss the ball into the goal rather than throw it in.

Naismith sought an idea with a similar goal in mind.

The game of basketball we know and love today is a multi-billion-dollar sport played all over the world.

Naismith went on to become the Physical Education Director, Campus Chaplain, and Basketball Coach at the University of Kansas. He remained there from 1898 until his retirement in 1938. Naismith gratefully lived to see his gift of basketball admitted into the Olympic Family of sports at the 1936 Berlin Olympics before succumbing to heart trouble in November of 1939. His legacy lives on in neighborhoods, playgrounds, gymnasiums, and stadiums around the world.

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Cooking to Save Money story by Doug Smith March marks the beginning of spring when some of our favorite local foods start to come into season. It can still be a bit chilly here in South Carolina.

Around here we always say if you don’t like the weather, just wait 24 hours and it will change with some days experiencing all four seasons on the same day.

This is a great time to start walking around the local farmers market to see all of the fresh options. Think fresh salads and homemade pizzas. I find it very helpful to talk to the vendors to get recipe ideas. Roasted root veggies are coming to an end but still delicious. One that comes to mind is beets. You can roast them and chop the greens to add to your salad. SO GOOD! This is one of the benefits of the local market where you can meet the farmer and find new ways to use local ingredients and sometimes be reintroduced to old favorites.

Another advantage of the local market is that it lowers your food bill.

I love to eat out, even more than the average person. With that being said, if you would like to save even more money this year, and I know I need to, cooking and eating at home, not just ordering takeout but actually cooking at home, is a way to cut food costs. My wife and I find this to be a fun activity, something we can do together and save money at the same time. I recently read an article, “Learn to Cook to Save Money” by Chef Gennaro Contaldo. He suggests that we just open the fridge and pull out all of the leftovers to make a new dish. I do this regularly. It can be fun to experiment with different flavors making it your own “potluck." You just never know what to expect.

Friday Night Potluck Our Friday night potluck dinner consisted of sausage and chicken thighs added to the hot cast iron pan with a little olive oil. Then I added the pizza sauce and simmered for about 10 minutes. As the rice was heating in the microwave, I added the leftover rolls on top of the simmering meat and sauce to just let the rolls steam for a few minutes. All in all, 15 minutes from fridge to table. Friday night was a free dinner. Doing this just one day a week will make a big difference in the weekly food budget.

Bon appetite.

We try hard not to throw away any leftovers. When we eat out, we always get a box to bring home for later. A few weeks ago our menu was Monday homemade pizza (leftover sauce); Tuesday - pan-roasted chicken thighs with rice; Wednesday we had dinner with friends at a steak house and brought home leftover steak and yeast rolls; Thursday we grilled out brats with mixed veggies; and Friday night dinner was a potluck where we cleaned out the fridge finding Get more from Doug Smith by following him on Facebook and leftover sausage, chicken, pizza sauce,

Instagram at "Doug the Food Guy". Find Doug the FoodGuy on and a few rolls.

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DRINK OF THE MONTH

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NEWSWORTHY

Something to Celebrate...

Hopla Receives 2023 AANP Advocate State Award for Excellence in South Carolina In recognition of her contribution as an advocate on behalf of nurse practitioners and their patients, Dr. Deborah Hopla, DNP, APRN-BC, is being honored by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners® (AANP) as the 2023 recipient of the AANP Advocate State Award for Excellence in South Carolina. Each year, advocates across the nation are nominated by AANP members to receive this prestigious award. Hopla serves as the Director of the MSN/ FNP and DNP Programs and is an associate professor of nursing at Francis Marion University.

“We are happy that the American Association of Nurse Practitioners has recognized what those of us who have worked with Deb have known for years – she is simply the best,” said FMU President Fred Carter. “Deb is an extraordinary teacher, nurse practitioner, and colleague. This award is well-deserved.”

The AANP State Award for Excellence was established in 1993 and is given to a nurse practitioner (NP) in each state who demonstrates excellence in clinical care. In 1993, the AANP Advocate State Award for Excellence was added to highlight the efforts of individuals who have made a significant contribution toward increasing the awareness and recognition of NPs. Awards are distributed to the recipients throughout the year, with recipients honored during the annual AANP national conference. AANP is the largest professional association for NPs of all specialties, with more than 121,000 members and headquarters in Texas and Washington, D.C.

Honoring Army Veteran, Danny Johnson During the first week in February, Bethea Retirement Community residents honored Army veteran, Danny Johnson, during a Quilt of Valor Ceremony. The quilt was beautifully handcrafted by two of their residents, Annette Ward and Sue Shatswell.

Zack Davis Named New Hartsville High Varsity Boys Soccer Coach

Hartsville High School (HHS) announced recently the hiring of Zack Davis as the new varsity boys soccer head coach. Davis is an HHS alum and former soccer player for the Red Foxes.

HHS Principal Corey Lewis said Davis’ experience with the program and dedication to the sport will be beneficial for students.

"We are fortunate to have Zack lead our program. During Zack's time as a player, I admired his competitiveness and passion for the game,” Lewis said. “We look forward to him helping our student-athletes find their passion for the game while helping them develop their skills and emphasizing the importance of performing well in the classroom. " “I am very excited about becoming the varsity boys soccer coach for Hartsville High School,” Davis said. “It is a surreal feeling to be in charge of a program that has had such an impact on my life. I look forward to working with our coaching staff and players as we try to become a state championship-level program.”

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Byerly Foundation visits Hartsville Club The Byerly Foundation toured the Hartsville Boys & Girls Club in February.

“This isn't your average after school program,” says Brianna Douglas, executive director of The Byerly Foundation. “We really enjoyed spending time with students and staff and learning more about the opportunities and challenges in serving our youth.”

The Club serves more than 100 students every day and offers programs in STEM, literacy, health, fitness, and so much more. It provides a safe space for children ages 6-18 with positive, caring adults 252 days a year.

The results?

Based on our most recent teacher surveys, 86% of students who needed to improve their academic performance did; 80% of students who needed to improve their behavior did; 86% of students who needed to do better completing their homework to the teacher’s satisfaction did; 80% of students needing to come to school more motivated to learn did; and 74% of those who needed to volunteer in the classroom for extra credit or to show more responsibility did.

94% of students say they enjoy learning new things.

98% of students would stand up for what is right.

93% of students say they try to help others.

How do our Club kids see these results?

As the 2023 Hartsville Youth of Year Antonio Dix expressed, “They always have my back.”

At the Hartsville Club, staff use the Ron Clark House System, tutoring with certified teachers, Caring adults and volunteers, and partnerships with the Governor’s School for Science and Math as well as specific Boys & Girls Club programs, SMART Girls, Power Hour Homework Help, STEM Programs, Positive Club Climate, Passport to Manhood, and Triple Play Nutrition & Fitness Education.

The Hartsville Club is also blessed to have Dianne Montgomery as Club Director. She has more than 16 years of Boys & Girls Club experience overseeing club programs, has managed numerous state and federal grants, and serves as a life coach for both adults and youth.

For information, call 843-332-1400 or visit https://bit.ly/bgchartsville. You can also text GIVE to 843-865-6363 to donate to the Boys & Girls Clubs.

If you are celebrating a positive achievement or have been awarded for a newsworthy accomplishment, email Heather Page at heather@vipmagsc.com.

SC Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee Presented a Check to The Guest House at McLeod For the 14th year, members of the South Carolina Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee (Pee Dee area) presented a check to The Guest House at McLeod as part of the Our Food Link program. This year the check amount was for $1,400 and they also made food donations that were delivered to the Guest House.

The McLeod Foundation thanks the SCFB Pee Dee District Women's Leadership Committee for providing these generous donations for families staying at The Guest House at McLeod.

The Guest House at McLeod provides families with comfortable accommodations in a warm home environment, while their loved ones are receiving treatment at McLeod Regional Medical Center.

McLeod Fellows Receive a Behind-The-Scenes Look at McLeod Heart and Vascular Services During an eight-month series of educational classes, the McLeod Foundation Fellows receive a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look into medicine and complex issues driving healthcare while demonstrating the continuing need for philanthropy. On February 14, the Fellows Class gathered to learn more about the heart and vascular services offered at McLeod Regional Medical Center.

McLeod Electrophysiologist Dr. Cyrus Kocherla, McLeod Structural Cardiologist Dr. Brian Blaker, and McLeod Vascular Surgeon Dr. Carmen Piccolo spoke to the group about the technological and surgical advancements the McLeod Heart & Vascular Institute offers heart and vascular patients.

“Because we use such significant technology for procedures, patients are going home faster and recovering quicker,” said Dr. Piccolo. The session completed with the class touring an Open Heart Surgical Suite.

The McLeod Fellows program is designed to give an inside look into the healthcare industry. This innovative program was introduced in 2006, and is composed of community leaders, business officials and volunteers. During the monthly sessions, the McLeod Fellows class receives an intimate glimpse of the many facets of healthcare. The curriculum explores the mission of McLeod Health, healthcare finances, quality and safety, and McLeod Health service lines. Participants obtain a working knowledge of the healthcare needs in the region and how McLeod Health is meeting those needs.

McLeod Fellows also gain insight into medical and technological advances through access to areas of McLeod Regional Medical Center not commonly available to the public.

In addition, the program gives business leaders and community members the opportunity to network with medical specialists.

Wilson Alumni Association Presents Largest Amount Ever to Wilson High A rainy Monday morning turned out to be a very bright day for Wilson High School students, faculty and staff. On their behalf, Dr. Eric Robinson, Principal of Wilson High, accepted $50,000 donated by the Wilson High School Alumni Association (WHSAA).

“I am ecstatic about the donation from the Wilson High School Alumni Association,” said Dr. Eric Robinson. “It is the largest donation received from the group since I have been principal. Robinson, who has served as principal of Wilson High School for the past 12 years, has annually accepted a gift from each alumni association president. Last year Wilson High received a gift amount of $10,000 from the WHSAA. “As always, we use the donations to help students of Wilson High School obtain resources they may need to be successful in and out of the classroom,” added Robinson.

Mark Bailey, President of the WHSAA said, “The WHSAA raises money through various events throughout the year with the Wilson High Homecoming Festivities serving as the largest fundraiser. In addition, personal donations are provided by alumni members and alumni classes.”

Bailey made the presentation Monday morning, January 30th, at Wilson during a small, brief ceremony where he and Dr. Robinson were flanked by Florence 1 Schools Board of Trustees Members Bryan Chapman, Dr. Gloria Bracey, Superintendent of Florence 1 Schools Dr. Richard O’Malley, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees S. Porter Stewart.

Robinson explained that typically, funds donated by the association are used to purchase items that the school does not already have, or to provide items to enhance specific programs. “This year we will use the funds to purchase items such as uniforms for the Wilson Academic Challenge Team, equipment for the Wilson Athletic department, and incentives/rewards for students who do well on End of Course Examinations.”

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The Southeastern Bluegrass Association held its monthly concert on February 4th at the Grand Old Post Office. Special guests Ralph Stanley II & the Clinch Mountain Boys as well as The Morris Brothers & Dixie Station took the stage to deliver an unforgettable performance. Check out the next Bluegrass Music Concert on March 4th at Back Swamp School House in Florence.

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December 2021

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December 2021

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