Glossy 2 10/23/09 2:24 PM Page 1

We t a k e c a n c e r p e r s o n a l l y.
Diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer at age 33, Jennifer Howle is
extremely grateful that McLeod was there with the step-by-step care and
support she needed. Every member of the staff went above and beyond
to be helpful, with the McLeod Breast Health Specialist taking the lead
to coordinate her unique clinical, educational and support needs. Just a
phone call away 24 hours a day, she ensured that all of Jennifer’s
questions were answered and presented her case to the McLeod Cancer
Conference Board, which collectively recommended an individualized
treatment plan for Jennifer. “I’ve got my life and I’m able to take care of
my kids,” says Jennifer. “That’s all that matters to me.”
McLeod
For more information contact the McLeod Breast Health Center
Monday through Friday at (843) 777-5418 or log onto
Cancer Center
www.McLeodBreastHealth.org anytime and click on the “Ask the www.McLeodBreastHealth.org
Breast Health Specialist” button. 843-777-5418
Glossy Page 3 10/22/09 12:34 PM Page 1
Glossy 4 10/22/09 12:36 PM Page 1
5 10/27/09 10:24 AM Page 1
“Florence Doctor Regrets Unfortunate Mistake...”
Dear Friend,
Many of you have heard I will
be admitting a mistake in this
letter today. You’ve heard right,
it’s time to fess up.
Working as a doctor here in
Florence, I’ve taken care of
hundreds of people. All
throughout that time I’ve kept
my secret. But now, as I’ve
started to come clean, instead of
an investigation or a local
uproar, my patients are relieved.
They understand, and people
are still coming to my office.
I’m going to tell you what I’m
admitting and what I regret, but
I want to give you some back-
ground first.
Life was going great and I was
having the time of my life, but
then it happens: something turns
my world upside down.
Out of the blue, I developed a
painful back condition. A pain
in my back and hips that caused
so much pain that I couldn’t
stand up or put on my pants.
The pain was so bad I was afraid
that I wouldn’t be able to play
with my children. There were
even times I couldn’t bend over
to tie my own shoes! I’d seen
people that had back surgery,
and that was out of the ques-
tion.
I finally came to my senses and
went to see a doctor. The doctor
did an exam, took some x-rays,
and then adjusted my spine. Oh
did I mention this doctor was a
chiropractor? The adjustment
didn’t hurt, it actually felt good.
I got relief and I could stand
again, most importantly I was
able to play with my children
again. It worked so well that I
am proud to be a chiropractor
today.
I am not a miracle worker
Oh, and about the mistake and
the regrets I promised to tell you
about. Here it is: People tell me
I’m a “miracle worker” because
An open letter to the community...
before they came to see me
(often) nobody else could help
them. I used to swell with pride
when I heard that kind of thing,
but as time goes on something
has become very clear to me:
I’m not a miracle worker. It’s
a mistake to let people think I am.
It’s the body that holds the mir-
acle. I just remove nerve inter-
ference, and the body does the
rest. The body is constantly
striving to heal and to be well.
When nerve interference is
removed, the body has a greater
chance to heal.
I should have made this abun-
dantly clear to all my patients. I
regret that I haven’t because the
distinction is important. So I
admit it, we get great results, but
I don’t deserve the praise. The
praise goes to the creator and
this wonderful body.
My patients come to me with
problems like: headaches,
migraines, chronic pain, neck
pain, shoulder or arm pain,
whiplash from car accidents, back-
aches, carpal tunnel syndrome,
ear infections, asthma, allergies,
numbness in the limbs, and more.
Here’s what some of my
patients had to say:
“I had headaches almost everyday
of my life for years; Dr. Strickland
put an end to that in a few adjust-
ments!”- (D. Kirkland-Florence. SC)
“I suffered with chronic pain for
over 25 years. I tried numerous
different treatments including
medication, physical therapy, and
even surgery. A friend of mine
told me about Dr. Strickland.
With his help, I am now able to
sleep through the night. Thanks to
my friend and Dr. Strickland”-
(H. Davis, Timmonsville, SC)
“I couldn’t sit, stand, or even lie
down without pain. After a couple
of visits, my low back and leg pain
are gone!” (K. Turner-Florence, SC)
But, as I’ve said, it is not ‘me’
that cures them of these afflic-
tions. Here is why making this
distinction is so important.
People are taught from a very
young age that “health comes
from the outside.” Some people
actually believe that the
answers to health always comes
in the form of a pill.
I believe that health is
an inside-out process. Our bod-
ies are designed to be self-heal-
ing. What I do as a chiropractor
works with the body, and not
against it.
That’s why the results are so
profound. I know I need to do a
better job in the future telling
people that. In so many cases
they don’t need to be slaves to
drugs. I need to get that message
out to more people. I admit I
made a mistake in not doing it
sooner. It is time to make the
correction.
Third Leading
Cause of Death
The present state of our
Nation’s Health is appalling.
Much of that is due to our faith
in pills and not taking responsibil-
ity for our health. We wait for a
crisis and often it’s too late. We
are so brainwashed into believ-
ing that the only way to health
is through pills. We have
become a nation of pill-poppers
and people who don’t want to
accept responsibility for our
health. What is the result? It’s
not good.
The world Health Organization
recently completed a study of
unhealthiest countries in which
the U.S. ranked a horrible 37
out of 39. This is a startling sta-
tistic considering the U.S. is
equipped with the most modern
technology and probably some
of the finest Doctors. So you’ve
got to ask yourself… Are drugs
and technology really the
answer?
On July 2008 The Journal of the
American Medical Association
reported that, according to John
Hopkins, medication errors are
the third leading cause of death
in the U.S. Is the medical estab-
lishment bad? No! But why not
consider safe and effective alter-
natives?
Our Offer to You
My name is Dr. Stewart
Sherman of Advantage Health
& Wellness Center. I believe
that you shouldn’t have to get a
loan from the bank to afford
good health care. When you
call and make an appointment
to see me before November 27,
2009 you will receive my entire
exam, (yes with x-rays also), for
just $27. You should call right
away, this offer won’t last long.
Debbie and Kristin are my won-
derful assistants and they will
probably be the ones who
answer your call. So call us at
843-669-1010. Give us an
opportunity to try and help you!
God Bless,
Dr. Stewart Sherman, D.C.
P.S. If you would like your
spouse or child to come along
with you, we will see them for
just $10 extra. We won’t make
you wait hours to be seen either.
Your time is as valuable as ours
that is why we have a no-wait-
ing policy. You will be seen
within minutes of your appoint-
ment.
6 10/28/09 2:14 PM Page 1

Don't be torn- Dance with us!

'09 Cypress Festival

Having fun
with our
KFA Family-
'09 Pig Pickin

...Creating performance memories to last a lifetime.

Come see us perform at the Florence Pecan Festival, McLeod Festival

of Trees, Florence Tree Lighting and at Local Christmas Parades!
Check out our website... www.kelleysfinearts.weebly.com

Dance Soaring with

Friends! KFA energy-
TCA Performance

GO KFA!
From the youngest to
our oldest, we have fun!
Merry Marketplace ‘09 Kingstree
Pig Pickin

Merry Marketplace 09
Guess what’s new at KFA?
CHEERLEADING
is now offered for all ages.
JOIN US FOR
GYM PIZZA PARTY Yes, that means if you are 18 and older.
All of our classes are taught by well qualified and
WHEN: November 20th & December 18th SAFETY certified staff members.
6:00PM-9:00PM The class involves learning proper motion, jump, and
basic tumbling technique for the beginner cheerleader. We
WHAT: Open Gym for ages 2-12 also teach beginner, intermediate, and advance tumbling
2 1/2 hrs of fun gym time including classes. All classes are geared to each student’s need to
Pizza and Drinks advance.
We are also looking to build one of the BEST cheer-
leading All-star programs in the area. The all-star program
will be offered to ages 4 and up. This program just like our
classes will be according to the individual skill level! Most kids
feel cheerleading is too hard for them, well, we at Flying High
will change their mind the first day they take class with any
of our instructors. So whether your child is interested in
cheerleading, tumbling, or gymnastics, we have it for you at
FLYING HIGH ACADEMY/KFA.

“HOME OF THE KFA DANCE COMPANY”

7 10/23/09 9:23 AM Page 1

Call today for your consultation!

Face Lift • Eye Lift • Botox • Juvederm

Breast Augmentation • Liposuction • LATISSE
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Spa Services Available • Gift Certificates

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www.lucascosmeticsurgery.com
AAAHC Accredited Surgical Facility • Board Certified American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery • Board Certified Anesthesia Providers
8 10/27/09 10:00 AM Page 1

The Art of Style

843.656.0399
843-292-0150 • www.gallowayandmoseley.com
2000 Block of Hoffmeyer Road
Florence, SC the toy shop
specializing in creative and
educational playthings

Your Holiday ELF ON THE SHELF

Shopping Should MAG

FORMERS
Begin Here AUTOMOBLOX
& MORE
EZY ROLLER

CYNTHIA Experience a Truly

ladies fine shoes Unique, Upscale 843-664-8383
843-661-7474 • Mon-Sat 10-6
Shopping and
Dining Experience

Butler’s
FINE MEN’S CLOTHING
843-667-9671 • www.butlersfineclothing.com

Glo Minerals . Pureology . Redken

Keratin Complex System . Brocato

the plaza
AN ELITE SALON
Our Stylists/Color Specialists: Tammy Chapman-owner,
Lois Still, Becky Cooper, Steve Connell, Anna Mcpherson,
Kathy Hutchinson, Ashley Turner
Call Tiffany for your appointment today.
CYNTHIA
ladies fine apparel
843-665-8858 843.665.5668 843-665-7669 • Mon-Sat 10-6
9 10/23/09 9:38 AM Page 1

“Thanks to FTC, this morning I watched The Weather Channel, researched

today’s lesson plan online and used my cell to give my grandson a
wake-up call. Neither of us were going to be late for school!”
- Wanda Faye Giles, FTC Customer

With FTC Digital TV, Internet, Phone, Security and Wireless, you can experience the world without
traveling past your living room. Call 1-888-218-5050 and get connected to the world today.

The whole world is your neighbor. www.ftc-i.net

10 10/22/09 1:36 PM Page 1

November is National Hospice Month!

LifeCare Hospice of SC offers a special way of caring for patients facing a life-threatening illness. Patient
care is provided by a team-oriented approach that includes expert pain and symptom management,
along with emotional and spiritual support tailored to the patient's wishes. LifeCare nurses are trained
Pain Resource Nurses and our Patient Care Coordinator is certified in hospice and palliative care. Our
staff is dedicated to the belief that no one should reach the end of their life alone, afraid or in pain, and
that people of all ages, all races, and all religious beliefs have the right to appropriate end-of-life care.

LifeCare Hospice of SC serves Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Lee, Marion, and Marlboro
Counties. LifeCare Hospice is currently undergoing the accreditation process because we believe in
providing the highest quality of hospice care to those individuals needing our care.

November 12: “Autumn and Art” Business After Hours at the Black Creek Arts Council on College Ave.
in Hartsville from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. You are invited to drop in for some fall flavors and learn more
about LifeCare Hospice! This event is sponsored by The Hartsville Chamber of Commerce and LifeCare
Hospice.

November 16-20: Stop by First Citizens Bank on Home Avenue in Hartsville to register for door prizes
and pick up more information on LifeCare Hospice.

lifecarehospicesc.com
(843) 332-2221 • 202 South 2nd Street • Hartsville
11 10/22/09 1:37 PM Page 1

Relief for Children & Adults from

Hay Fever Bee & Fire Ant
Asthma Allergy
Skin Allergy Sinus Endoscopy
Sinus Problems CT Scans

A l l e rgy Asthma & Sinus Center

With Help From DOCTORS who CARE
ALL Board Certified in Allergy & Immunology
Joseph Moyer, M.D., FACAAI Call Toll Free
Danny Douglas, M.D.
H. David Stone, Jr.,M.D., ACAAI
1-800-253-6697
Timothy Crouch, M.D.
Stephen A. Imbeau, M.D., FACP, FAAAAI, FACAAI

McLeod Medical Carolina Pines Tuomey Medical South Strand Seacoast Medical
Plaza Medical Ofc. Bldg. Building Medical Center Center
800 E Cheves St 701 Medical Park 115 N. Sumter St. 5046 Hwy. 17 4000 Hwy. 9 E.
Suite 420 Dr. Suite 104 Suite 400 Bypass S. Suite 105 Suite 240
Florence Hartsville Sumter Myrtle Beach Little River
679-9335 332-3191 803-934-1488 293-5000 399-9033
12 10/28/09 1:14 PM Page 1

In Every Issue Remarkable Women

14 Letter from the Editor entrepreneurs and sheroes
16 She mail

25 Style File

26 In His Own Words

David Sides Entrepreneurs and Sheroes
34 Shop Talk 76 TWIN Honorees 88 Burnadene
Drs.Welch & Bonds, P.A. 78 Kim Davis Yarborough Kelley
80 Cathy Mogy 90 Judy Kammer
41 Wee She
Gracelynn Ann Parks 82-83 Patricia Ann Hewitt 92-93 Cynthia Poston
84 Jerry Whitehead 94 Mills Brown
42 Chicks of the Month 86-87 Wanda DuBose 96 Rebecca Smith
Clinical Services Staff at
James 98 Sandra McCutcheon
Regency Hospital in
Florence Women in Business Spotlight 116-120

46 There She Goes

48 What Advertisers Say

Seegars Fence Company Contributing Writers
52 She’s Closet 22 Melodie Griffin 70 Cookie Cawthon
Old School Remarkable Sunshine State of Mind
56 Mary R. Dittman, MBA
28 Paige Thomas 104 Anna K. Pitts
Mary Unmarried Many Women Do Noble Things Counting Blessings

60 Wings for the Spirit 32 Ferebe Gasque 108 Ouida K. Page, RN, LPC
Sherry S. Page Atkinson Reflecting on the Extraordinary The Second Act

67 The World According to 36 Jumana A. Swindler 124 Melia Flowers Berry

The Optimist & The Pessimist The Empty Seat
Charisse Reichenbach
68 Marti Miller
72 She Wants to Know Birds of a Feather

102 And She Cooks,Too!

106 Chick Lit

Jan McKenzie

110 Campus Chick

Emerald Owens
Medical Experts
62 J. Marshall Dent, III, MD 126 Andrei Talantov, MD
130 Annie at Home The Cancer We Don’t Talk About The Impact of Diabetes

112 Lea Pritchard-Boone, PhD

132 The Sir-Vey How to Raise a Go-Getter

134 Beauty Buzz

138 Fabulous Finds

140 Who’s That Girl?

Lauren Grice
13 10/28/09 11:01 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 13

She M e l ia
a Flowers Berry
Publisher/Editor
editor@shemagazine.com
Bedspreads with
matching Shams:
Tuesday Taylor
King & Queens $60!
General Manager
we are

Advertising & Graphic Design Comforter set and

tuesday@shemagazine.com 7-piece comforter
sets starting
Dresden Tucker at $35!
Graphic Design
dresden@shemagazine.com

• Largest selection
Le ig
gh Clary Abdou of sheer panels:
20 colors - all $5
Production Manager
• Unique product
Advertising & Design selection unlike
any in Florence
leigh@shemagazine.com
• Customized bedding and
window treatments.
• Local private sewing
Heather Frick workroom
Editorial Assistant / Advertising • Staff with over
20 years in the industry
hfrick@shemagazine.com

843-317-0098 • Mon-Fri • 10:00-5:30 • Sat 10:00-2:00

A sh l e y R o g e r s 3332B W. Palmetto St. • Ebenezer Plaza • Hwy. 76 • Florence
Graphic Design (across from Dollar General towards Timmonsville)

ashley@shemagazine.com

Beverly Kelly - Executive Assistant

Ray Gasque
LOSE WEIGHT.
NEVER FIND IT AGAIN.
- Distribution Manager

She mail Lose 21 pounds in 4 weeks.*

E m a i l t o : e d i t o r @shemagazine.com
Mail to: 609 North Main Street • Marion, SC 29571
Call us: 843.423.2393 office line • 843.423.9837 fax line

take us home
For a copy to be placed in your mailbox, send a check or money order

for $38 to the above address for a year's subscription.

She Magazine is published monthly and distributed at over 500 locations throughout the

Pee Dee. She Magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertisement or content we
deem inappropriate for the publication. Contributions are welcome and can be sent via

e-mail or snail mail. Please include name, address and contact number. You will be
®
contacted if we decide to print your submission. Content must be received by the 10th for

the following month's publication. Letters to the Editor are welcome; however, they may
888-355-1803 www.mdbethin.com
require editing due to space limitations. The design, editorial and photo content in She is
LW-F-309

copyright of She Magazine and may not be reproduced without written permission by the
publisher. She Magazine is a registered trademark. **At participating centers. *Based on a stratified sample of 94 men over a six-year period.
14 10/27/09 2:06 PM Page 1

WOMEN
REMARKABLE
“...among letter from the editor
She Magazine’s One of the many things about me that drives my family crazy is my love for paint. I love to change
the color of paint in my house – quite often. Even so, my bedroom has been the same color for three years
now. I realize that may seem normal to most people; but, if you love paint and you love to change things up
very own regular like me, then you understand that the cactus green that once seemed so perfect is now living on borrowed
time. Truthfully, the thrill was over about a year ago, but I just haven’t been able to find the time to sever the
advertisers, we relationship.
It takes time to pick out just the right shade of paint. Like the cactus green that I’m about to
have over 70 replace, for example. I must have looked through a hundred shades of green before settling on that perfect
one. Now, I want to paint my room a shade of blue, but it’s not that simple. The color I’m looking for is a
women-owned sultry blue, bordering on a light teal with a hint of green undertones. Not enough that you would ever call
it green, though; I’ve done the green thing. The color I want is serene and warm. I can’t explain it; but, I knew
businesses! that when I saw it, I’d know that it was the perfect color.
After a painstaking process that took weeks, I finally did find my new color. A trip to the paint store
yielded a handful of paint samples. I’m ashamed to say that I took so many samples, I felt as if the store alarm
We salute these was going to sound when I walked through the exit doors. I was truly ashamed and consoled my conscience
by telling myself that I would return the samples once I found my color. (Okay, I haven’t returned them; but,
REMARKABLE I do intend to. Really!)
The thing is this; the more I looked at the samples, the harder it became to make a choice. Every
WOMEN who, color looked so pretty. I wanted to choose every one I looked at. While choosing the feature stories for
November’s issue, “REMARKABLE WOMEN,” I found myself under a similar stress.
through their Several months ago, after announcing this month’s theme, I began receiving a vast amount of letters
and e-mails in response to my request for “REMARKABLE WOMEN.” Every single letter represented a
advertising woman that I very much wanted to feature. As well as your recommendations, my head was filled with
women whom I know personally and wanted to tell you about. There is my own REMARKABLE mother; my
spiritual mentor, Ms. Bobby Croft, a strong woman of faith, a prayer warrior and confidant; my friend, Debby
support, make Jordan, who raised a family, worked as a teacher and served her church while taking care of her mother and
disabled sister; and the list continues. My life is enriched with so many REMARKABLE WOMEN that I could fill
this magazine an issue – or two – with them alone.
So, what’s an Editor to do? So many REMARKABLE WOMEN, so little room. With every inch of
possible and desk space covered in prospects, and every prospective woman looking as pretty as those paint chips, I began
to pull together the REMARKABLE WOMEN that you will read about in this issue. When I finally made my
fuel our decision for the paint, I put the unchosen samples in a box and refused to let myself look at them again for
fear I would change my mind and start the process over. Likewise, I put the letters of the stories of women
local that I could not tell in this issue in a folder so I wouldn’t be tempted to second-guess myself.
Just as my conscience gnawed at me when I took so many paint chips, that little police-of-the-soul
kept calling to me from the folder that held the stack of REMARKABLE WOMEN. I quieted that voice by
economy.” vowing to tell the stories of the other women in future issues of She – and I will do just that. Look for
them in the “IN EVERY ISSUE” features,“SHEROES” and “WOMEN AT WORK.” So, if you wrote to tell me
about a REMARKABLE WOMAN, hold that thought. She will not be forgotten.
You may be asking, “What was the criterion for being a REMARKABLE WOMAN?” For this issue,
I looked for women who make a difference in the lives of others – at home and in their communities.
NOVEMBER 2009

Sometimes, they made the difference quietly and behind the scenes. Sometimes, they did it boldly. But,
always, they made the difference unselfishly.
In this issue, I also wanted to recognize women entrepreneurs. As the owner of She Magazine, I
know first-hand the degree of true grit it takes to start and run a business. More women than ever before
are taking on this challenge and showing they have what it takes to succeed. I’m so very proud to tell you
that among She Magazine’s very own regular advertisers, we have over 70 women-owned businesses! We
salute these REMARKABLE WOMEN who, through their advertising support, make this magazine possible
and fuel our local economy. You see their ads almost every month in She. Now, you’ll see their faces in a
special section recognizing women-owned businesses, beginning on page 115.
November is also a month for counting our blessings and giving thanks. I would certainly be remiss
if I neglected to acknowledge the REMARKABLE WOMEN that make up the staff of She Magazine. I am
blessed with the greatest job on earth. Knowing that I serve the God of Mercy, Who holds from me that
which I do deserve, His wrath; and gives graciously to me what I do not deserve, His love; I still ask myself
quite often, “What did I ever do to deserve this?” For whatever reason – and one that I am not to ques-
tion – He has put me here and surrounded me with six REMARKABLY talented and devoted women. And,
as if that were not enough, He blessed this magazine (and me) with thousands of loyal readers. My heart is
overflowing with gratitude. Can it get any better than this?
Enjoy this issue . . . It’s a very REMARKABLE woman thing!

Melia Flowers Berry

15 10/22/09 1:43 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 15

Teaching the Joy of Dance

Toni Adams, Owner/Director

Instructors: Carl Askew,
Brittany Jeffers, Mary Jones

Tap, Jazz, Pointe, Clogging,

HipHop, Lyrical, Ballet

Local Public Performances, Recital,

Regional and National Competitions
and conventions. Small classes and
a viewing window for parents.

Accepting ages 3-Adult

CLASSES: 3:30pm-8pm • Mon.-Thu.

See us perform at the Pecan Festival on

Saturday, November 7th!
843-617-9607
130 A N. Coit St. Florence, SC

• The Florence Presbyterian Community is a Continuing Care

•2010 Pro Bowl Retirement Community, promoting multiple residency and health
Miami Fl. $350pp hotel/bus/prime ticket. January 30-31st.
service options from Active Living Patio Homes and Apartments,
UPCOMING EVENTS to Residential Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Care.
•Holiday Festival of Lights, •Open to all faiths • Celebrating 50 years of Retirement Living
Charleston, SC, Dec.22nd Tour & Dinner $49pp •Stability, Longevity, and Strength...Our Commitment to
•Valentine Dinner Trip for 2 (February 13, 2010)
Excellence
$125 (per-couple)
•NY Shoppng & Tour (March 18-21) $299pp(2) $275pp(3)
$245pp (4)
•Bahamas Spring Break Cruise (April 8-11,2010) $455pp
•Disney Trip (June 13-15,2010) $285pp(2)$265pp(3)$245pp(4)
•Essence Music Festival (July 2-5, 2010) $495pp(2)$395(3)
Experience the lifestyle difference that an
•Labor Day Weekend Nassau/Freeport Bahamas Cruise from
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All trips include Motor Coach transportation.
Please contact Marian Howard for more information
843-382-9293 mhoward@preshomesc.org
1776 Cedar Swamp Rd. • Kingstree, SC 29556 2350 W. Lucas St. Florence • 843-665-2222 X 114
16 10/27/09 5:08 PM Page 1

She mail
Dear She,
Continue with the great job you are
doing with She Magazine. We just love
each issue!
Dear She, -Linda Proctor, Marion, SC
To everyone at She, I so Dear She,
enjoy your magazine. Most Each month, I look forward to the new issue of She
Magazine. This publication is a great fashion resource. I
of all, I enjoy reading about
share each issue with my sister who lives in Greensboro,
the cancer survivors. NC. She enjoys reading about the Pee Dee area.
-Lisa A. Bigelow-Colone, Florence, SC
-Elizabeth Smith, Mullins, SC

Dear She, Dear She,

First, I want to tell you how much I love She I have always been a big fan of She Magazine. To see it grow
Magazine! I never know what surprises I may find
has been so wonderful! You have done a great job!
when I open this magazine.
I also love She because you tell all stories – Sincerely,
the ones with good endings and the ones with sad
Abbie Denny, Lake City, SC
endings, as was “Chase’s Story” by Shana Lee in
October’s Survivors issue.
May 22, 2009 – what a sad day for us but a Dear She,
happy day for Heaven! God took one of His Angels
Thanks for She Magazine. I look forward to
home to be with Him. I remember the afternoon of
Chase’s accident. The kids were so sad. A short time the Christian encouragement each month. Thank
later after we all had left the river, we were standing
around outside. We glanced up towards the sky,
you for loving Jesus and sharing him with others!
and there it was – a cloud that looked exactly like a -Caroline Perez, Florence, SC
cross! It was amazing! It was as if Chase was telling
us all, “It’ll be okay.” Dear She,
Over and over, we heard, “Why Chase? Why I love She Magazine! I love the articles and the wonderful advertisements.
did it have to be Chase?” The explanation I liked the It’s wonderfully laid out. My mother-in-law, Dallis Brady (owner of Dallis’
best was, “Sometimes, God leaves the weeds and Downtown in Marion), got me hooked on it. I live at the beach, so she brings
takes the flowers.” me a copy of She every
He was a wonderful young man who touched time I see her.
a lot of people – young and old. Chase may be gone, Keep up the great work!
but he will never be forgotten.
God bless his wonderful parents, Shana and Sincerely,
David; his brother, Brent; and the rest of his family. A Huge fan!
And, thank you , She Magazine, for a great story. Alisha Brady,
Little River, SC
-Tammy Springs, Florence, SC

Send an E-MAIL to editor@shemagazine.com Become Friends with

or MAIL us at 609 N. Main St., Marion, SC 29571 us on Facebook!
17 10/26/09 1:40 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 17

Holiday Customized
Parties Menu
Weddings
In-home cooking classes & demonstrations.
FUN FOR ALL!
Large or small, Dinner Parties
casual or formal, and Private
we cater to your Events
desire

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Call Jammie Harris at 843.496.0820 (cell)
or leave a message at 843.669.8601
18 10/28/09 2:23 PM Page 1
1. 3. 4.
2. 5.
9. 12 13..
10.
11
NOVEMBER 2009
1. J. Marshall Dent, MD is Board Certified in Family Practice & Obstetrics
and Gynecology and also holds an Advanced Certification in Menopausal
contributors
Medicine. He can be contacted at Complete Women’s Health Care in Florence.
2. Lea Pritchard Boone, PhD is the mother of Dalton (3) and wife to
Austin. Lea Pritchard-Boone is wife to Austin and mother to Dalton (4). A
Clinical Psychologist in private practice, she focuses primarily on treating chil-
dren, adolescents and families.
3. Joe Griffin,, DMD graduated from the Medical University of SC in
Charleston with an advanced dental degree. He has volunteered his time with
Mercy Medicine, the home for unwed mothers, prison ministry and Dentistry
from the Heart as well as producing a public service announcement with Sheriff
Kenney Boone titled, “Talk to Your Kids About Drugs”. This month, he is our
guest writer in THE BEAUTY BUZZ (page 134).
4. Paige Thomas lives in Florence with her husband, Joey, and two Sheltie
pups. She has three grown sons and four stepchildren. She also writes for She
Magazine.
5. Ouida K Page is a Licensed Professional and National Board Certified
Counselor with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and is a member of the
International Honor Society of Nursing. She has been in private practice for over
15 years, specializing in families and issues relating to children, adolescents and women
of all ages. She also writes for She . She is married and has one son.
6.. Melodie Griffin is a public speaker, a writer, a musician and a homemaker.
She is a master communicator who makes the truth of God’s Word come
alive...leading to changed lives.To inquire about having her speak at your next
event, visit www.melodiegriffin.com
7. Marti Miller moved to Marion, SC in 2006 and now considers herself
as southern as possible...with a lot of help from her friends. Writing for
She continues to be one of the many wonderful highlights of her moving south.
Faith is first, but Shewriting is definitely in the top ten list of things that bring
her joy.The palmetto bugs, however, did not make the list.
8. Sherry Page Atkinson lives in Marion with her husband, Jimmy. Those
wishing to contact her may do so at the following address: 6526 South
Highway 41 or you may e-mail her at: sherrya@nethwy.com.
9. Ferebe Gasque is honored to be the Music Therapist at McLeod Hospice House
where she works with survivors and their families who continue to fight cancer and other
end of life issues. She is privileged to be a part of the Tuesday night Just for Women Bible
Study group which meets in Florence at First Presbyterian Church. Ferebe also encourages
her friends and fans to contact her regarding Pampered Chef products. She can be
reached at ferebe.she@earthlink.net
6.
7. 8.
17...
14. 15. 16..
10. Anna Pitts lives in Florence, SC. She is currently pursuing her career as a
School Library Media Specialist and loving every minute of the journey! Anna is
also a contributing writer for She Magazine.
11. Cookie Cawthon is wild about her family. She totally digs serving
as a greeter at NewSpring Church every week, and she flat out loves reading,
writing, speaking, teaching, and blogging www.cookiecawthon.com.
12. Jumana Swindler, a resident of Florence, is the Director of
Marketing and Public Relations for McLeod Health. Her personal favorite
pastimes, reflected in her writings, are RV'ing, movies,Theater, fishing,
reading and spending time with her son and family.
13. Allie Atkinson is a French teacher at Marion High School. She
lives in Marion with her husband, Philip, and daughter, Abbie.
Artist Spotlight
14. Ashley Rogers is a Graphic Designer for She Magazine. She is a
Francis Marion University Alumni holding a B.A. in Visual Arts with a
specialty in Graphic Design. She and her husband, William have two
beautiful children, Brock William (2) and Lexi Brooke (1). This month’s
cover is an acrylic painting she created especially for She Magazine. She
is available for art commissions and can be reached at 843.433.0658
15. Ricky Ford is a wedding and children photographer out of marion sc. He
says, “ Photography is an art to me and I want every image that I take to be timeless.
I owe everything to my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ and I try each and everyday to
make him smile down on me.” Ricky’s work is featured in this issue of She in a
photo shoot for the feature stories. 843.617.0147 • www.rickiford.com
16. Liz Odom has always had a passion for photography and feels blessed
to be able to do what she loves on a regular basis. She has a four year art
degree from Anderson University, Anderson, SC and now lives in Florence
with her husband and two children with another one on the way. Drawing,
graphic arts, and music are other things that Liz loves.
843.679.9759 or 843.260.2641• www.lizodomphotography.buggleitz.com
17. Collin Smith is a portrait and wedding photographer based out of
Florence. In 2009, he launched the $100 Portrait Project to fulfill a business-long
goal of his to be able to give back to the community. This program donates 50%
of its revenue to the Children’s Miracle Network and stays in the Florence
area. He is the man behind the creative photos in the CYNTHIA ads. Visit
Collin’s website for more information at: cmsmithportraits.com
19 10/22/09 4:06 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 19

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20-21 10/27/09 4:34 PM Page 1
20-21 10/27/09 4:35 PM Page 2
22 10/28/09 10:59 AM Page 1

OLD
SCHOOL
Remarkable
I have a theory. My theory is that people who
by Melodie Griffin
are remarkable don’t usually have a clue that they are
remarkable. Their utter “remarkableness” seems
astounding to bystanders, but to themselves, it just seems
legs belonged to a son who would be called
like the norm. I have often heard heroes lauded and
“Moses” and desperate times called for cre-
hailed for their courage, only to respond with, “Shucks, I
ative measures. As you may know,
was just doing what anyone else would have done!”
Jochebed crafted a floating bassinet from
Right.What anyone else would have done.Anyone who is
papyrus and said “bon voyage.” Can you
remarkable, that is.
even imagine? Jochebed’s protective moth-
I wonder if the remarkable women in the Bible
er instinct sparked creativity that saved her son’s very life
knew that they were noteworthy at the time. Let’s glance
– a life that went on to rescue his people from slavery.
at a few of these girls to see what made them tick. As I
Creative women don’t always have a solution, but they
see it, a remarkable woman is…
trust God to empower them with innovative
BRAVE – Queen Esther knew all about brav- thoughts to get the job done.
ery, though I doubt she ever enrolled in an online course
PERSISTENT – “If it was easy,
to further her studies. The need for bravery was simply
everyone would do it. If at first you don’t suc-
thrust upon her. From an arranged marriage to the king
ceed, try try again.” How true. After all, I am
of Susa to her moment on the world’s stage when she
now on my 677th attempt at losing weight.
saved her people, the Jews, from complete annihilation –
But doggone it, I refuse to lie down and give
Esther was one brave chick. She never asked for this
up! I’m taking a lesson from a New
assignment, but she couldn’t stand back and do nothing.
Testament woman who was sick and
Brave women step up and do the right thing, even when
tired of being sick and tired. Her twelve
it is difficult.
year battle with a bleeding disorder
CREATIVE – Remember our soccer mom, pushed her toward Jesus. The crowds
Jochebed? No? You mean you didn’t name your firstborn
following the Messiah were thick and
daughter after her? Jochebed gave birth to a Hebrew boy
loud.Toes were trampled. Shoulders were shoved. It did-
at a time when the children of Israel were slaves in Egypt.
n’t matter to her. This moment might not pass by again, tion for this One who had revolutionized her tumultuous
The Pharaoh was nervous about the rising numbers of
so she pressed in. If I can just touch the hem of His robe world. Onlookers scoffed and whispered. The disciples
the Israelites and decided to have all newborn sons mur-
– just the hem – one touch – one touch! Healing came criticized. But she had her focal point. Eyes straight ahead
dered. I cannot even imagine Jochebed’s anguish, knowing
immediately with that one touch. Persistent women keep on the Lover of her soul, and there was no stopping her.
that the little legs kicking within her were
the victory in mind, even when people or circumstances Focused women gaze at the prize that lies ahead, not let-
destined for death if they
attempt to knock them down. ting anything veer them off course. Can you even imagine
belonged to a
FOCUSED – I have three children and all knowing that your act of bravery saved your people from
boy. Those
were born via C-section, but I am still grateful for the annihilation? Or how about the relief and joy that one
little
Lamaze/Childbirth classes that I took. In fact, I still use mother felt when she knew that the her wildly creative
one of the techniques when I am in pain or under stress. plan had floated her child to safety? Oh, the uncontain-
The instructor taught us to make use of a “focal point”. able praise that must have flowed from the woman who
We were to pick an object somewhere in the room touched Heaven with her faith! And as for the gal whose
and gaze intently at it – shutting out all distrac- focus remained clear in her mission for the Master – she
tions.This helped us to push (literally!) toward finished well. Very well. Maybe these women had an
the goal at hand. One particular woman in inkling that they were remarkable. But maybe, just maybe,
God’s Word had this technique down pat. they were so enraptured with the remarkable God of the
It was her intention to anoint the feet of universe that all else paled in comparison.They were sim-
Jesus with luxurious perfume. She was ply doing “what anyone else would have done.”
determined to show her love and devo-

Melodie is a public speaker, writer, musician and homemaker.Visit www.melodiegriffin.com to

inquire about having her come and share about the personalities at your next event.
23 10/23/09 9:40 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 23

Booking Now for Holiday Parties!

Catering Available
•Group functions •Weddings
•Parties •Special Events
843-664-9191

New Sunday Hours! • 11am-5pm • 600 S. Irby St. Florence

24-25 10/28/09 4:07 PM Page 1

The colors of fall

Collin M. Smith
Photos by

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24-25 10/28/09 4:08 PM Page 2

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26 10/26/09 12:12 PM Page 1
DAVID SIDES
With
the announcement in February 2006 that B.C. Moore’s was closing after 80-plus years, it was
time to make some life-changing decisions. After twenty years of experience in Moore’s cor-
porate advertising offices (many of those years as advertising director), advertising was all I
knew.
God actually planted the seed for TrueBlue Advertising in the fall of 2005. Moore’s
Creative Director, Dale Davis, and I were traveling to Atlanta to meet with Pure Red
Creative, the graphic design team Moore’s employed for their photo shoots. At one point
during the long trip, Dale jokingly said, “You know, we could do the same thing these guys
are doing. They’re Pure Red. We’ll be TrueBlue.” We laughed, and the subject was dropped.
When we received the unexpected news about Moore’s closing, Dale reminded me of that
conversation. Of course, there are ad agencies in Columbia and Greenville and Charleston,
but Cheraw? Dale and I knew we had two choices: move to find employment or create our
own employment. It didn’t take long to ponder our options. Cheraw was home for both
our families, and this is where we wanted to live. With a combined total of thirty years’
experience managing the daily operation of our former employer’s multi-million dollar
advertising program, creating an ad agency was a natural transition.
From the beginning, God gave Dale and me a sense of peace about opening
TrueBlue Advertising. And, the more we thought about it, we agreed that the name
“TrueBlue” described the agency we aspired to become. If you haven’t looked up true blue
in the dictionary lately, it’s someone that is genuine, faithful, honest and completely loyal to
a belief. So, with lots of prayer and a leap of faith,TrueBlue Advertising was created.
Since the beginning of this venture, God blessed us with a clear vision of what He wanted
for TrueBlue. From the moment we peered through the mail slot at 236 Second Street, we
knew we had found TrueBlue’s home. However, convincing our wives that this long-neglect-
ed building would eventually create “Ohhhhs!” and “Ahhhhs!” from our clients was a chal-
lenge. Time and time again, God’s faithfulness to transforming our dream to reality was noth-
ing short of amazing.
One story I enjoy sharing is how, through prayer, God provided two century-old
windows to hang in our office. When I first found the windows, they were covered in white
paint. Only after painstakingly scraping the painted panes was a light blue antique glass
revealed – the perfect color for a place named TrueBlue. Of course, we were on an
extremely tight budget. The renovation of the sanctuary at Dale’s church led him to go
“dumpster diving” to retrieve the beautiful crown molding that graces our office. A discard-
ed two-legged table waiting for the trash truck was used as the base for a wash tub, which
became our unique bathroom sink. After five long months of renovations,TrueBlue official-
ly opened its doors in December 2006.
During the time before our
official opening, we were also busy
completing various projects. Our
first big opportunity was working
with the Town of Cheraw in
launching the South Carolina Jazz
Festival in October 2006. From
developing the festival’s website to
creating the pole banners lining
the streets and designing the festi-
val brochure and commemorative
poster, that experience confirmed
that a small rural ad agency can
develop a first class event that
rivals those of its big city neigh-
bors.
During the past four
years, our focus has spanned
from retail and health care to
non-profits, financial institutions
and local government in small-
to-medium municipalities across
the Carolinas. Whether it’s the
IN his OWN WORDS
David Sides (left) and his TrueBlue partner, Dale Davis.
development of a corporate identity or a fully-integrated marketing campaign, we’re here
to serve our clientele. We have recently launched TrueBlue Print, which allows us to pro-
vide printing from a business card to a billboard.
Being a small design agency, we have the ability to be very flexible with time and
budget restraints. Dale and I believe everything must support the client’s brand identity and
work together for maximum effectiveness. After all, you never get a second chance to make
a great first impression.
As small-town business owners, we understand the importance of being a good
neighbor. Call it old-fashioned business practice, but we don’t see our clients simply as
clients. Every new client is a neighbor. Ultimately, our goal is to genuinely help everyone
that walks through our front door with their needs and provide the best of what we have
to offer. Throughout the process, we strive to establish a long-lasting relationship – some-
thing that happens when value is provided and trust is established. Often, the smaller mar-
kets are overlooked and underserved. Dale and I believe the exact opposite should be tak-
ing place.
With each client, we provide a personal approach by listening and understanding
individual goals, then executing their marketing plan through fulfillment, from concept to
delivery. We place our clients’ best interest as a priority, and we stand accountable to our
clients for the trust they place in TrueBlue.
Being based in a rural Southern setting allows us to understand firsthand the chal-
lenges our clients face to succeed in rural America. However, small town does not equal
second rate. We believe that to survive in today’s business climate, each of our clients must
remain competitive. And, through our expertise, we provide cutting-edge design and tech-
nology with every project. Above all, we believe everyone has a story that connects them
to the world, and it’s our job to capture that story. Through branding, corporate identity,
custom website design, print, direct mail, outdoor and electronic media, that message is com-
municated.
These past four years have definitely been the most challenging of our lives, and
with the current economy, we have fully put our trust in God. Dale and I have recently been
reading a book by T. D. Jakes, and in one chapter, he states that God wrestles with each of
us to discover what we are made of. Before, Dale and I wouldn’t have opted to lose well-
paying jobs and face the uncertainty of the past four years. But, now that we have survived,
I honestly can say this has been a positive life-changing experience. After all, God is using
this experience to transform Dale and me into the men He desires us to be.
David Sides and his best friend and wife, Kathryn, have two incredible adult sons, Bartley and Davidson. They
also have a beautiful daughter-in-law, Katy. David’s passions include seeking God’s will, reading
motivational books and every genre of music. David and Kathryn enjoy leisurely drives in their red
convertible under the Carolina blue skies.
27 10/27/09 3:00 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 27

The Earring Lady

• These earrings are hand crafted in
Florence from American materials
and sold by galleries nationwide
• Here you will find the largest selection and this
is the only place to buy discounted seconds
• Many new styles this season

PROFESSIONAL CUSTOM FRAMING

Update your bath with a custom framed mirror.
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843-317-1732

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RAINBOW SQUARE •1800 W. PALMETTO STREET FLORENCE 1607 E. Palmetto St. • Florence
843.669.4333 • www.spadevie.net 665-1915 • Closed Sundays
28 10/23/09 1:47 PM Page 1
My mom
was a woman of many talents
and gifts. When I look at her
college annuals, her listing in the
directory consists of a paragraph of all
the things she accomplished, organizations
in which she was involved and offices she held.
As a young wife, she was involved in the community
in Garden Clubs, Literary Clubs, Junior League, Scout
Mom, and she was named our Florence Woman of the Year in
the 60s.
She was a born entertainer and loved to have people in her home and have
parties – even wedding receptions at our house. She hosted receptions for her sister,
my sisters and me when we married, not to mention all the parties in between. She
agreed to put our home on the Christmas Tour one year, and my sisters and I – gladly
and begrudgingly – entertained as the “Three Little Women.” There were many times
we were called to host for events at our home. She was proud of it, especially since
the design was partly her own.
As I spent time with her through the years, I remember hours of working in the yard,
helping her carefully plant bulbs and plants. She loved flowers of every kind. When she
entertained others in our home, she would cut a few from our yard or a neighbor’s and
make the prettiest arrangements. Maybe a natural talent – or one she learned from the
Garden Club involvement – but she made beautiful and creative arrangements for all
seasons.
In the middle of all her activities, I remember as a child that my mom always
took the time to teach me the little things – like how to catch fireflies or make mud
pies (and she allowed me to cook them in her oven). She was tolerant of my love for
caterpillars and the fact that I was not a girly-girl, but much more into bugs and books.
My dresses had frogs and suspenders more than bows and lace. She could easily accom-
modate my preferences as she sewed many of our clothes herself when we were chil-
dren. She even managed to make psychedelic pants for my brother when the style hit
in the 70s. How I wish we still had some of those for nostalgia!
In the years after the divorce of my parents, my mom discovered her talents
in the business world. She began work as an Office Manager with my uncle and worked
in that position for twenty years. At the same time, she owned and managed a retail
store, which remained in our family for almost forty-five years. I worked for her in both
of those environments, and while employees remember her as being tough at times, she
had a sound business mind. She was fair, and she was able to look at the two different
work environments for what they were, making decisions with concern and care.
Paige Thomas lives in Florence with her husband, Joey, and two Sheltie pups. She has three grown sons and four stepchildren. She works part-time as Business Administrator for the
Francis Marion University Center for the Child, and she is currently licensed as a Realtor with Prudential Segars Realty in Florence.
“For now, at this
time in my life, I’m
thankful that I have
her example – and
my memories.”
Many
Women
Do Noble
Things
by Paige Thomas
What is most amazing to me is that she did these things while raising
four children on her own. As I got older, my mom became my friend. I
knew she would always be there for me. I could call anytime and count on
her always. She also had a wonderful sense of humor, which I remember
most vividly in her last years when dementia took over some of her mem-
ory. Most of us don’t come to appreciate all the things about our parents
until later in life. But, when I take the time to reflect on it, I stand amazed.
As Christians, we often turn to the Bible for instruction as to how we
should live. When we think of the description of an extraordinary woman, we
often read and quote Proverbs 31. As I read it again and began to write my
thoughts and description of my mother, I realized that I was writing the 31st
chapter of Proverbs in the 21st century.
I guess I’ve been thinking about our relationship a lot lately as I am in the phase
of my life when children grow up and leave home to be on their own. I’ve been reflect-
ing on what I perceive to be my successes and failures and the things I wish I had done
differently at times in their lives.
Although my mom, in my eyes, was an amazing woman, things were not always
good between us. We went through our struggles, disagreements and heartaches.
There were times when I guess we didn’t really like each other and maybe some of the
choices we had made. I think that’s a journey we all take, whether as children or par-
ents. I’ve been wondering what my children will remember most about me when I’m
gone and hoping that I can hold even half the special memories that I have of, and for,
my mom.
Proverbs 31:25-28, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at
the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed.”
When my brother and sisters and I were trying to decide ten years ago what
we wanted to place on our mother’s headstone as our memory to her, we all agreed
on those words, “Her children arise and call her blessed.” I only wish she knew. With
four very different experiences between us, we all saw her as an extraordinary woman.
Proverbs goes on to express in verse 29 that, “Many women do noble things, but you
surpass them all.”
As I journey into a new phase of life, learning to have adult relationships with
my children, my prayer is that God will lead and guide us. Unchartered territory can be
frightening and even stressful. There are many times when I wish I could pick up the
phone to call Mom and just talk. I know she would be there. For now, at this time in
my life, I’m thankful that I have her example – and my memories.
29 10/22/09 1:55 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 29

Beautiful for now and

always, sterling silver and
18 kt yellow gold jewelry
available in earrings, Saturday November 21st -
bracelets and necklaces. Wednesday, November 25th

Classic totes, weekend and

market bags...reusable with Florence
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30 10/27/09 4:12 PM Page 1

Caring for Hospice Patients in the Pee Dee since 1979

In recognition of National Hospice Month and

in Celebration of 30 years of caring for patients and families
at the end of life, McLeod Hospice expresses their gratitude to all
who have assisted us in providing compassionate care and support.

Caring. Comfort. Compassion.

These three words describe the mission of
McLeod Hospice - to provide compassionate care
and support for patients with a terminal illness and their
families. Patients and their loved ones need a dedicated
medical team during times of critical illness.

McLeod Hospice is ready to provide that support.

1203 East Cheves St. • Florence, SC • 843-777-2564

www.mcleodhospice.org
31 10/23/09 1:57 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 31

Niki Chavis
Owner/Director

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe, Hip Hop and Cheer

843.665.0606 Venable’s
MAGNOLIA MALL 1608 Second Loop Rd.
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32 10/26/09 11:21 AM Page 1

REFLECTING ON THE
extraordinary
by Ferebe Gasque
Thanksgiving has always been one of my very favorite days of the year. While
I’m always thankful for so many things,Thanksgiving Day holds so many precious mem-
ories in my life.
This Thanksgiving, I am particularly thankful for God’s blessings during this
transitional time in my life. I am so very grateful for the friends and experiences He
has given me to remind me of His love and provision . . . always . . . no matter what. I
could write a book. Perhaps one day I will. But, for now, I’ll try to contain myself to
just one page.
During this past year, I have reconnected with so many people from my past.
It has been such a thrill to relive so many happy memories. Just a few weeks ago, I
found my goddaughter whom I have not seen in twenty-nine years. When I was a vol-
unteer with the Foreign Mission Board in Suriname, South America, I lived next door
to a wonderful family. When the three year old was baptized, her mom asked me to
stand as Jenna’s godmother. She said I was the strongest Christian she knew. I was so
honored. About the same time, another little girl was born into the family. Much to my
amazement, Ferebe was given as her middle name. We stayed in touch for a couple of
years; but, time and busyness intervened and we never heard from each other again.
Through FaceBook, I have found Jenna. I do not know who is more excited, she or I.
My most recent blessing is my first grand-nephew, Duncan Brody Forbes, who
was born on October 6, 2009. Unfortunately, he lives in the Houston area. Thanks to They were very
the miracles of electronic media, however, I was able to see a picture of him shortly after active in Cottageville
his birth. I can hardly wait to meet him, but he has already stolen my heart. Baptist Church. Uncle Elli
Happy memories of Thanksgivings past fill my heart as I think of this month’s was the church treasurer
theme “Extraordinary Women.” Each year, our family would gather in Cottageville, a lit- and a deacon. Sister was
tle village in the low country of South Carolina. There were seven siblings in my moth- always at the helm of the
er’s close-knit family. Most years, all but the youngest sister would gather at the home Women’s Missionary Union
of the eldest sister to celebrate Thanksgiving and family. The youngest sister was mar- and worked with the children
ried to an Air Force officer. So, her family’s attendance was dictated by their location. and the youth.
Some of the family would gather on Wednesday evening. We always arrived on They both taught Sunday
Thursday morning after attending our annual Thanksgiving Morning service at First School and sang in the choir. Since
Baptist Church in Florence. There was always laughter and joy in Cottageville. The smells Cottageville was such a small town, visi-
of the turkey and other traditional dishes, watching Uncle Elli peel oranges in one long tors to the church for revivals and other
strip without lifting his knife, knowing that I would never be able to sit at the big table occasions always stayed at the Cone Bed and
unless I got married (and then only for the first year) - all those memories are so real I Breakfast.
could almost walk into the picture and be right at home. The thought of Miley’s biscuits While Ellison kept the home fires burn-
STILL makes my mouth water! ing by teaching in Walterboro and later working in
So, why does Thanksgiving make me think of extraordinary women? There were the Colleton County School District
so many of them in my mother’s family, led by my mother’s mother. However, on Administration, Ferebe worked first in Walterboro
Thanksgiving, I think most of my mother’s eldest sister, the one with whom I am honored and later in Columbia with the Department of Social
to share a name. This extraordinary woman was Ferebe Spears Cone. Services. She was in on the ground floor of the develop-
Neither time nor this page will allow me to explain the myriad things about her ment of the South Carolina Department of Public Welfare
that made her extraordinary. She was born in 1908 and I don’t think she ever slowed (later DSS) as well as the South Carolina State Retirement
down much until 2002, when she went to Heaven. Of course, she is probably organiz- System. When she was working in Columbia, she commuted
ing and training and encouraging others now, just in a new locale. every day (more than 100 miles each way) before the interstate
After having graduated from Lamar High School, Ferebe Spears moved to the system was developed. She retired in 1976, having been the first
other side of Darlington County where she attended Coker College. Though she com- statewide Director of Staff Development and Training for the
pleted her coursework in 1929, she worked for two years in order to pay for her diplo- Department of Social Services.
ma. She graduated in 1931. In the mid-1930s, she boarded a train and traveled to New She was honored through the years in many ways as a state
York City to pursue graduate studies in Social Work. Her amazing and extraordinary employee and as a leader in her church activities. She was also named
experiences had just begun. “Outstanding Alumni” from Coker College.
Returning home to South Carolina, she married Ellison Cone in September of The real reason Ferebe Spears Cone was an extraordinary
1941. The biblical directive of the two becoming one has never been more beautifully woman, however, is found in the legacy she leaves behind. Her family and
exemplified than through that union. Though they held different careers and had differ- her friends are so much richer for having had her as a part of their lives. She
ent responsibilities in life, to the world they were always “Ferebe-and-Ellison” and to the was loving and caring, yet she always demanded the best from herself and
family they were always “Sister-and-Elli.” They never had children of their own, so they from those she loved.
adopted all the nieces and nephews on both sides of the family. That was a great bless- She was the eldest child of her generation, I am the youngest in mine.
ing for all of us. My prayer is that I have been and will continue to be worthy of the name we share.

Ferebe Gasque loves the opportunity of sharing bits and pieces of her life with the readers of She Magazine.
33 10/22/09 2:10 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 33

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shop
talk
Dr. Philip W. Bonds and Dr. Charles D. Welch, Jr.
Drs. Welch & Bonds, P.A.
SPECIALISTS IN ORTHODONTICS
OUR STAFF: Every member of our team has been extensively trained to assist you
throughout your orthodontic treatment. Through regular staff training and continuing edu-
cation, our team stays up-to-date with the latest advances in technology and patient serv-
ice.
OUR GOAL: Our goal is to provide compassionate, innovative and exceptional ortho-
dontic care for all of our patients in a manner that recognizes their needs and exceeds
their expectations.
DR. WELCH: After graduation from The Citadel, Dr.Welch received his Doctorate of
Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina. He completed his
Residency in Orthodontics at West Virginia University, where he earned his Master’s of
Science in Biology. His graduate orthodontic research was published in the American
Journal of Orthodontics, a high honor. Dr. Welch began private practice in dentistry in
1975 and established the specialty practice of orthodontics in 1980. He is a member and
Past President of the South Carolina Association of Orthodontists, an active member of
the American Dental Association, South Carolina Dental Association and the Florence
County Dental Study Club.
DR. BONDS: A native of South Carolina, Dr. Bonds grew up in Bamberg. His interest in
Orthodontics began with his own experience in braces. “As a child, I enjoyed science and
building models. I was intrigued by the way my Orthodontist made my teeth move and
my smile change. Orthodontics seemed to perfectly blend my interest in the way things
work with my desire to help others. From that point on, I knew I wanted to be an
Orthodontist.” Dr. Bonds graduated from Wofford College in 1984 and enrolled in dental
school at the Medical University of Charleston. He graduated in 1988 as Valedictorian of
his class. Following dental school, Dr. Bonds completed his Orthodontic Residency at the
University of Louisville. He moved to Florence and has practiced Orthodontics with Dr.
Welch since 1990. Dr. Bonds is a Member of the American Dental Association, the South
Carolina Dental Association, and he is a Past President of the Florence County Dental
Society. He is also a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and is a Past
President of the South Carolina Association of Orthodontists. He is also a Member of the
Hartsville Kiwanis Club. As a Member of Central United Methodist Church in Florence,
he enjoys teaching in the high school department. Dr. Bonds and his wife, Honor, reside in
Florence and are the parents of Benjamin and Emily. In his free time, he enjoys spending
time with his family and playing golf.
OUR SERVICES: Orthodontic treatment can truly transform smiles and people’s lives.
However, Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile.
Orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions), which occur as a result of
tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth
or feel about your smile.
BRACES: Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any
age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are
designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.
Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal
appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally impor-
tant. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay,
abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.
ADVANCES IN ORTHODONTICS: The new techniques and appliances we use
greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time
and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces,
translucent braces or transparent aligners that can be worn for a short time to improve
mild cases of misaligned teeth. A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree
that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.
ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR ADVANCES: Many of our patients had never
considered traditional braces but are now happily and comfortably improving their smiles
with Invisalign. Invisalign is the clear way to straighten teeth without braces, using aligners.
Aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth
without anyone knowing, and you can still eat and drink what you want. Also, you can
brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth, and there are no wires, metal
or brackets to cause mouth abrasions.
PAYMENT OPTIONS: It is our goal to provide you with affordable, high-quality treat-
ment. To do this, we offer a variety of payment options designed to meet your needs. Since
the cost of treatment varies depending on the severity of the problem, our treatment
coordinator will be happy to work out a plan that is best for you.
INSURANCE: If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the ben-
efit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic bene-
fit that is distinct from regular dental insurance. Remember that insurance policies vary,
and we will review your insurance to determine the appropriate course of action. Once
treatment has started, we will file your claims.
FIND US: Drs. Welch and Bonds offer two convenient locations. Our Florence and
Hartsville offices are easily accessible and fully equipped to attend to your individual needs.
The staff at each location is committed to the highest level of care in a pleasant, friendly
atmosphere. We are always available to talk with you and address your concerns. Please
feel free to contact us during work hours through our office phone number. After hours,
you may contact us through our answering service. Our Florence Office is located at 1343
Second Loop Road. The phone number is (843) 665-8176. Our Hartsville Office is locat-
ed at 1300 South Fourth Street. The phone number is (843) 332-1860. Our Toll Free num-
ber is (800) 439-4589.
35 10/23/09 2:00 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 35

Have you heard the news?

We have moved to a
New Location!
812 S. Casuha Dr. • Florence
Between Baby Furniture and More
and Christy Moore

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36 10/27/09 5:14 PM Page 1
Ah,
the Optimist
the crispness of the latest change in seasons. It is my favorite
time of year, vibrant in its colors and a chill that awakens the
&pessimist
the
senses. Fall for me is a time of reflection and anticipation, preparation for the weeks
ahead, filled with Holidays, family gatherings, warm fires, hot mugs full of all kinds of
things, (and even a new sweater here and there.) And, it’s the one time of year when
turkey and dressing tastes better than ever before and is the occasion approved for
wearing orange - - even if you’re not a Clemson or Tennessee fan. It’s certainly a time of
year for RVing, one of my preferred pastimes for adventure and relaxation.
As I was waxing eloquently on this subject during lunch at work the other day,
I heard a grunt from one of my colleagues.We’ll call him “Mallie” -- since he’s always a
mal-content.
“What are you all chipper about,” Mallie said abruptly.“This is one of the most
annoying seasons of the year.The leaves are everywhere, the yard is a pain to maintain,
fuel costs, wood costs and electric bills rise,” he said with that edge in his voice.
“Look on the bright side, Mallie. Be glad this month that we have a home to
heat, our work hasn’t been interrupted by catastrophic conditions and we have electri-
cal power. You even have access to your checking account at six convenient
locations in Florence.” I think I must have sounded like a local bank com-
mercial.
Then Mallie droned on. “It gets cold and
uncomfortable and the weather’s so unpre-
dictable. What’s so great about all that?”
“Listen,” I responded. “We live in the
South and the weather is always unpredictable. The
remarkable thing is that Hurricane Season is finally over
without incident during the '09 coastal year.We can at long
last move on to other national headlines and quit watch-
ing weather people on TV tossed to and fro on deserted
islands off the African coast. And, have you also noticed
that the female weathercasters seem to be getting appro-
priately older? Less and less of them appear to be con-
stantly pregnant like they used to and Jim Cantore now
wears thick glasses …..the whole Weather Channel clan
is rapidly catching up to our age. It's poetic justice. So, try
looking on the bright, sunny side, Mallie.”
I think I almost heard a “humbug” muttered
under his breath.“Some studies show people have more
energy, they’re more active, are less sluggish and even
sleep better this time of year,” I added.
Mallie almost choked on one of the nuggets
from his Chick-Fila Kids Meal. (In addition to being a
downer, Mallie can be pretty cheap, too.) “Don’t go there
with me…Falling back to Standard Time. Oh yeah, sleep is
easy and that’s what makes it hard to come to work. It’s
dark in the morning; it’s dark at night. Dark, dark, dark…all
the time I even lose my sense of time these days.”
And I was losing my sense of patience. So I tried a differ-
ent tack - more towards the "maleness of Mallie" by dangling
the sports influence in front of his negative nose.
Jumana A. Swindler, a resident of Florence, is the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for McLeod Health.
Her personal favorite pastimes, reflected in her writings, are RV'ing, movies,Theater, fishing, reading and spending time with her son and family.
Sincerely Yours, Jumana A. Swindler
"And how about those awesome football games this time of year? The Swine
Flu has apparently had no adverse affect on Pigskin mania.You still get to shout 'Did'ya
see that Bo' to all your guys friends, slap 'em on the back without fear of retribution and
even drink a beer before five o'clock happy hour when the challenges are scheduled at
noon or 3 p.m."
"For heaven's sakes gal, have you seen the BCS Standings lately? Humph!" said Mallie.
BCS,ABC, CBS, or AARP…. I didn’t really care for his pessimism anymore. Drawing
from the images that November brings inspired me to remain upbeat – especially since
a recent RV visit to Virginia, which actually gave me the chance to visit sites of around
the old colonies. The significance of honoring the traditions in autumn rushed through
my brain, remembering the Pilgrims – their fight for survival in a foreign land, their cel-
ebration of harvest despite meager times. In some ways, they are a metaphor for my
own family and ancestors who immigrated to America decades ago to start new lives.
They modeled the work ethic and the need to give thanks and praise for what was
received and by Whom it was given.
I recalled how the Pilgrims’ appreciation overshadowed the
robbing of their joy in being free to live and worship, even in
times of hardship or discouragement. I visualized the Pilgrims
with the Indians and the opportunities for brother-
hood, extended families and friendships. It
brought with it a renewed excitement for the
Holidays well on their way - - the sharing of our
own bounty with one another in need or in
plenty, the reveling in fellowship despite diversity
or beliefs. “It’s such a good time of year,” I said out
loud euphorically.
“What’s up with you,” Mallie said flatly. “Just think
of what’s ahead…. Putting up with my in-laws, grumpy
Uncle Charlie, all the kids out of school or coming
home with their girlfriends, hauling loads of trash to a
packed dump, making sure the yard is spotless for the
fam, long lines for the holiday take out orders and all
the extra effort it takes to be nice to everybody
even extra tips, or gift cards for folks just doing their
jobs as expected. Don’t you see it?”
“Yep,” I said, with one of my best grins
smeared across my face.“And, I am so grateful that
I really do see it.”
Poor Mallie and all the people who just
don’t get it. Have an extra portion of pecan pie
later this month and just send the bill to Mallie.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
Psalm 139:14
37 10/26/09 9:33 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 37

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38 10/27/09 3:02 PM Page 1
41 10/23/09 10:54 AM Page 1
Miss Gracelynn Ann Parks is the “all Fine Arts in Florence. Just recently, she was the either. Gracelynn is always dressed to the nines with
around” kind of girl. From dancing in tutus to cutest pink poodle ever! And, let’s not forget her all the accessories to complete the outfit. How
Thomas the Train, this three-year-old loves it all.
I first met Gracelynn at A Step Ahead Day
School in Florence. My two-year-old came home
one day, saying, “Ma-Ma is my girlfriend.” I thought,
“How sweet! My son loves me.” Little did I know,
there was a beautiful little girl in his class nicknamed
“Ma-Ma” by their teacher, Mrs.Tena.
Her nickname suits her so well. Gracelynn
is a giving, loving and caring little girl. She’s always
the first to greet you at the door. She makes certain
she has your favorite toy waiting for you. She is
eager to share and ready to play. Her besties are her
new little brother, Sam; my son, Logan Young; Grant
Johnson; Morgan Deaver; and cousins, Ellie and Clint
Parks.
As such a free-spirited child, I have to won-
der what the future holds for Miss Gracelynn. She
could easily go into the medical field as a doctor. If
someone is hurt, she is the first to run and help. She
will find the bandages and the boo-boo medicine to
make the pain go away. She makes certain to give
one of her sweet hugs and kisses to make it all bet-
ter, too.
Gracelynn could be the next Miss Diva
America. She loves taking dance lessons at Kelley’s
Sugar and Spice and All that’s Nice . . .
singing. She and my son, Logan, managed to sing the
ABC song, at the top of their lungs, at least 101
times during the entire drive home from a mini-
vacation at Myrtle Beach. That tune is still ringing in
my ears.
I also wonder if a future as an Engineer for
the railroad might not be Gracelynn’s calling. She is
very passionate about her “choo-choo trains.”
Recently, she made a trip to Tweetsie Railroad for “A
Day Out with Thomas the Train.” Even though the
trip was for her, she made time to go shopping for
her friends and bring them back gifts – an example
of how Gracelynn is always more eager to give than
receive. (She gets that honest from her parents,
Austin and Christina Parks.) We got an authentic
Thomas the Train Whistle.
Of course, Gracelynn could always become
the next star on Deadliest Catch. She loves to be
on the river with her daddy. She’ll eat anything that
comes out of that river, too. From catfish to alliga-
tor, this little girl has no fear of the catch. Just fry it
up! Forget the country club; Gracelynn would
rather be a member of the hunting club. She is
daddy’s little girl!
We won’t rule out a career in high fashion,
many hair bows can one little girl own? From jew-
elry to jibbitz (decorations for her Crocs), each out-
fit is always complete. The final touch, however, is
that beautiful smile. She can light up any room and
demand everyone’s attention.
Gracelynn is such a likeable little girl with
strong family values based on faith. My little boy’s
friendship with Gracelynn has brought our families
closer together and helped my family find our place
in church. The Parks are active members at Florence
Baptist Temple. With their encouragement, and our
children bringing us together, we have found our
place at FBT, as well.
Gracelynn recently graduated from A Step
Ahead and is now an Eagle at Florence Christian
School. We were very sad to see her move to a new
school, but we know that we will all be friends for a
very long time.
Gracelynn Ann Parks is a well-rounded, free-
spirited, loveable, three-year-old “Wee She.”
This month’s “Wee She” was submitted by Kimberly
Barnhill-Young, Logan’s (aka Lolo) mommy. If you would
like to nominate a little girl for “Wee She,” send an
e-mail to editor@shemagazine.com with “Wee She”
Nomination as the subject.
42 10/27/09 5:06 PM Page 1

Chicks OF THE Month

She
Magazine

&
SALUTE...

CLINICAL SERVICES STAFF from left to right:

front row:Angela Gibson, Mona Brown,Angel Benenhaley, Janet Dunphy
Patricia Howell,Vicki Parker, Carrie Dowdy, Jane Spell, Dawn Shelley,
Nancy Lynch, Shannon, Collier, Katherine Mims,Angela Godbold, Becky
at REGENCY HOSPITAL Collins,Tina Stokes, Patricia Jackson, Misty Polston, Jennifer Brown,
Denise Frederick, Debbie Strickland, Lera Watson, Casey Roscoe,
Candace Shackelford-Floyd, Rosanne Jones, Janice Bazen, Chris Addis,
in Florence Monette Johnson, Krisetta Howell

In a letter to She Magazine, Joe McCall, RN, BSN, MHA, Director of Clinical Services at Regency Hospital in Florence, wrote:

Let me start by saying that I hope it’s okay for a

man to enjoy sitting in any lobby around town enjoying She
Magazine. Your advertising and articles continue to remind me what
a wonderful group of ladies that I have the pleasure to work with.
I am the Director of Clinical Services at Regency Hospital in
Florence, and we believe in giving patients a second chance at life.
We are designed to offer services to the patient population who
require an acute care setting for an extended period of time (usu-
ally 25 to 30 days).
Giving this second chance is not glamorous. In recruiting all
positions, I explain that if you are a clinician who does not want to
touch a patient, then this is not the clinical environment for you to
practice. When I say that, the staff starts nodding their heads like a
well-practiced “Amen Choir.”
I would appreciate you recognizing these strong, passionate,
clinically-sound practitioners for their continued selfless acts in
order to continue offering our community hope and second
chances. After all, everyone needs a second chance every now and
then.
Thank you to the Respiratory Therapists, Nurses, Physical
Therapists, Speech Therapists, Pharmacists, Occupational Therapists
and all the non-beside ladies that make this a fun game. We may not
always win; but, rest assured, we certainly play it well!
Thanks for your consideration.

If you would like to receive lunch courtesy of She Magazine and Chick-fil-A at the Magnolia Mall, Magnolia Mall Drive-In and Florence Darlington Tech locations,
send an e-mail telling us why your office or group should be Chicks of the Month to: editor@shemagazine.com
43 10/22/09 2:25 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 43

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44 10/28/09 4:23 PM Page 1

Someone’s Missing from this Issue

of Remarkable Women ...

It’s You!

She thinks every woman

is REMARKABLE.
Celebrate your individual womanality!
45 10/26/09 3:03 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 45

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Butterbeans (green and speckled) • Dixie Lee Peas • Butter Peas
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• Side Meat • Pecan Pies • Pound Cakes.
Customize a basket from the farm! Pick and choose your meal items.
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843-395-1956
www.dcbsc.com
1708 Hwy. 38 S. • Bennettsville, SC • Easy drive from Florence
M-Sat 9am-6pm • Sun 1pm-6pm
46 10/23/09 10:58 AM Page 1

She along!

Magazine
Going Somewhere? Take

September 08 She
) Jenn ifer W illia m s, Chelsea Feagin,
(L-R tt
B ro ac h (h o ld in g She) and Kay Basse
Susan
June 09 She Magazine

Mary Huggins
& Alison Jorda
“This
is my mom an
n
on the Texas d me in Austin
University Ca ,Texas,
with our She m pus posing
Magazine in N
- Alison Jorda ovember 2008
n .”

July 09 She Magazine

nd to Atlanta,
“On a girls’ weeke
our She Magazine
Georgia, we took
n at Stone
to read on the law
e laser show
Mountain before th
- Susan Broach
began that evening.”

June 09 She Mag

azine

“We recently vacationed in Des

Moines, Iowa, to visit my hus-
band’s relatives. We brought our
She Magazine to read on the
plane, and we left this copy with
the ladies of the family to enjoy.”
- Crystal Minnehan
Crystal & Danielle Minnehan

(L-R) Lori Deitch

,Whitney Martin
Sherry Hatchell, ,Trisha Balkcum,
Susan McKenzie,
and Kay Elvingto
The n
July 09 She Magazin

Girls of The Man

e Attraction Salo
their She Magazin n took
e to Orlando, Flo
Premiere Orland rida, to the
o Beauty Show.
seminars on the They attended
latest techniques
Color and Cuts. in Hair Styles,
e

M c E lve e n & S heri Hyler

Stefanie xas, for a Mary K
Dallas, Te
ay Seminar
er) and I went to ford and
My m o m (S he ri H yl
de ci de d to go to Historical Stam
To be featured in “There She Goes,” send an e-mail to July. Then, we ve She Magazine,
and so
editor@shemagazine.com. Include a picture of yourself the last week in in e th ere. W e lo
h our She Magaz - Stefanie McElv
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(friends welcome!) with a copy of She Magazine along take pictures wit nk s bu nc he s! ”
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with a brief description. do our friends in
47 10/23/09 2:07 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 47

Do you need help cleaning out your attic,

garage, or storage building? Give us a call!
1.843.665.4343
We will buy or haul off your items for free if they are in 1.800.868.2613
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48 10/27/09 10:26 AM Page 1

What Les and Magen Pike of

Seegars Fence Company have to say
about advertising in She Magazine...

photo by C.Wilson Studios

Homeowners today expect the highest quality in home improvements. Today’s market is tough and the
upkeep and security of you home has become very important in these economic times. Seegars Fence
Company, founded in 1949 with over 18 offices on the Mid-Atlantic, is the largest fence company on the
east coast. We offer our customers the highest quality and most affordable options for their exterior fence
needs. She Magazine has delivered the message of our company’s vision and workmanship throughout the
region. She represents the voice of women’s views of values and quality that Seegars Fence Company Inc.
of Florence is willing to meet. With Seegars Fence Company you can Demand the Best. We will continue
to reach our customers through She with visual examples of local work and descriptions of our products.
49 10/23/09 9:33 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 49

Happy Thanksgiving from

In Hartsville we are grateful for....

• A warm “small town” way of life
• A walkable downtown with Join us for
fun stores & yummy places to eat Thanksgiving Buffet!
• Great schools, Coker College Thanksgiving Day
and the SC Governor's School
for Science and Math Country Lunch Buffet 7 days a week
• Beautiful Kalmia Gardens Friday & Saturday nights
• Byerly Park for year Buffet or Menu
‘round fitness
• A strong cultural
Booking Holiday
arts community
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Marketplace
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51 10/23/09 2:09 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 51

Florence’s “Go-To”
Urgent Care Team

Back Row (l-r): Roosevelt G. Daniel, M.D.; Edwin L. Gandy, M.D.; Bruce E. Burner, M.D. Front Row (l-r): Michele G. Phipps, M.D.; Maria D. Perez, M.D.; William L. Cauthen, Jr., M.D.

Serving Florence and the surrounding community, Carolinas Urgent Care

is staffed by our board-certified physicians who you know and trust. Our team specializes in the treatment of
minor emergencies or illnesses that are not life-threatening but still require prompt attention. So if your doctor’s
office is closed or you can’t wait for an appointment, you can still get the care you need for the flu, a fever
or a simple fracture as well as other common ailments. Whether you need to see a doctor, have lab work done or need an
x-ray, our “Go-To” Team is here for you.

 Urgent Care
DR.

HO
FF
Monday - Friday Saturday
A

ME
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YE
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8 AM - 8 PM 9 AM - 2 PM
S. CA

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O ER
ETT OK
EE
LM

Urgent Care
. PA RD
W .

Carolinas Urgent Care

(OFFMEYER2OAD&LORENCEr  
52 10/28/09 10:25 AM Page 1

She’s
closet Mad
1

for
Plaid 2
1. Hooded baby doll dress
Flirt Boutique, Florence
2. Corset top with pleated skirt and wide belt
Lulu’s Boutique, Hartsville
3. Tartan print poncho
Minnie’s Giftique, Hartsville
4. Fitted blazer
Flossie Mae’s, Hartsville
5. Argyle print scarves
Shhh... Intimate Apparel, Florence
6. Wellies by Sperry Top-sider 3
Rambo’s Shoes, Hartsville

6
5
53 10/26/09 12:09 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 53

Burry Bookstore
130 West Carolina Ave. Hartsville, SC 29550
Shop online! www.burrybookstore.com

1. Otis by Loren Long

2. Return to the Hundred Acre Wood Now Booking

3
by David Benedictus
Christmas Parties!
3. Rumble Tum by Stephanie Peters
H LUNCH: M-F 11 - 2
4. Spot’s Snowy Day by Eric Hill
O
4 5. Jan Brett’s Snowy Treasury U DINNER: M-Th 5-9
R F&S 5 - 10
by Jan Brett
S Reservations Accepted.
5
137 E. Carolina Ave.
Join Us For Our Christmas Open House: Downtown Hartsville
Thursday, November 19th from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. www.bizzells.com
Author Batt Humphreys & SC Poet Laureate Marjory Wentworth (843) 857-9080
will be reading from and signing copies of their new books.
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There will be refreshments and drawings for prizes!
Leigh Ann & Willie Bizzell
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54 10/23/09 9:51 AM Page 1
56 10/23/09 10:59 AM Page 1
UNMARRIED
`tÜç
In the movie, When Harry Met Sally, there’s a scene where Sally is cry-
ing over her ex-boyfriend’s impending marriage. Do you remember the line when she
wails,“But, I’m gonna be 40!”? It was funny to me in my twenties when the movie came
out; but, since I turned 40 this past summer, it’s not so humorous.
I moved to Florence in 1995; I was 24-years-old and
focused on my career. To be honest, I was never
very interested in marriage or having a fam-
ily until I turned thirty. By then, however,
I was dating the wrong men – guys who
told me they didn’t want a commit-
ment, guys that I wouldn’t have been
compatible with, guys that were still in
love with other girls. When I did meet
a nice man, I was so focused on getting
him to the altar that I would invariably run
him off with my intensity and desperation.
This desperation was compound-
ed by the fact that Florence is a small, Southern
town where most people are married with
children and there isn’t really a defined sin-
gles community. It always intrigues me
that when I visit people in cities like
Las Vegas, San Francisco, Los
Angeles and New York,
nobody asks me if I’m mar-
ried or if I have children.
They’re just interested in
getting to know me. In
Florence, however, I’m fre-
quently asked to explain why I’m
single. People even go so far as to
ask me what’s wrong with me!
Mary R. Dittman, MBA, is an Instructor of
Marketing and Director of the Internship Program
in the School of Business at Francis Marion
University. She consults for a variety of local and
regional companies and is actively involved in the
Florence community.
What’s Worse Than
Being 40 and Single?
a new monthly feature
by Mary R. Dittman, MBA
Additionally, our national culture is very focused on being part of a couple. The
diet, health, fashion and beauty industries exist to sell us products to help us attract
someone. Then, there are lines from movies that set us up for emotional disaster – “You
complete me.” The message is this; you can’t be happy unless you have found your soul
mate.
I was truly enslaved for most of my thirties by this quest to “find someone.”
I’ve done it all: online dating, joining civic groups to “get out there,” long distance rela-
tionships, church singles groups, etc. It seemed like the more I did to try to find some-
one, the lonelier I felt. All my friends got married. I threw bridal showers and stood up
at their weddings. I organized engagement parties and plastered a happy-for-you smile
on my face. Eventually, I threw baby showers and attended first birthday parties – usu-
ally without a date and always having to explain why I was still single. I felt like all my
peers had passed me by and I was stuck in some adolescent nightmare where family
holiday still referred to my parents, not my own family.
Don’t get me wrong; I could have been married ten times by now. But, have
you ever noticed the ones that want to marry you aren’t the ones you want?
When I was 36, I realized one day that I needed to make some decisions about
my life. If I wanted to have children, I needed to get married, get pregnant and have
them or look into adopting. A lot of my single friends struggle with this issue. I admit;
I’m lucky that I really never was that excited about having children. One of my friends
told me, “People who don’t want children are mentally ill.”
I disagree. I think some women just don’t have a strong maternal instinct. Either way,
I realized that I wasn’t that upset about not having children.
So, if I didn’t want children, I had to ask myself why I was in such a hurry to get
married. The reason – I felt like I was single because there was something wrong with
me. I felt nobody had picked me because of some defect in me. I know I’m not alone
in feeling like that because I’ve talked to countless women – and men – who have felt
that way in singleness. I was convinced that if I could only get married, I would be happy.
Everything else in my life is great – wonderful, fulfilling career; I own my own home; I
have money; I have retirement; I have great friends; I’m healthy. But, there’s still that one
missing piece – no one to complete me.
Therefore, I felt worthless (a feeling that’s made worse when you live in a small
town where people’s primary focus is getting married and having children). And, it gets
much worse (in my experience) after age 35 because the worthlessness is compound-
ed by a feeling of hopelessness.
Nevertheless, I know a lot of really great single men and women and I never
look at them and think, “Wow, you’re actually a failure and a loser because you’re sin-
gle.” Furthermore, most of my friends report that they don’t think less of me for being
single. So, what’s the deal?
My BFF (Best Friend Forever) says you have to be happy first. That’s the con-
ventional wisdom. Be happy and you’ll attract the “right person.” I had to face the fact
that, at my age and living in Florence, I may never meet the right person. That’s a scary
thought, but once I accepted that maybe this was it – just me making a life for myself –
I realized it’s not so bad. In fact, it’s pretty good, especially when I stopped romanticiz-
ing marriage as a cure-all. I can do what I want, go where I want, spend what I want
and date whom I want.
Ask your married friends about the downsides of marriage. Ask Jenny Sanford
how great her life is right now. If marriage is the key to happiness, why is the divorce
rate 51% on first marriages? Not being negative but being realistic, no one thing can
cure your unhappiness – not the right job, not the right car, not the right weight and
not the right person.
I started to focus on having a great life, whether or not my last name ever
changed. Most of the time, I really love being single. Sometimes, I wish I could find that
special someone, but it’s also great to be able to walk away from someone who is not
so special.
I think we all know that there are worse things than being alone. Talk to some-
one who is in a bad marriage. Talk to someone who is isolated and lonely but can’t go
meet Prince Charming because they’re already married to Prince Jerky.
Hang in there, single friends. There’s something worse than being single and
40. It’s being single, 40 and having an unfulfilled life because you’ve been waiting for
someone to come save you from yourself. There’s nothing wrong with you, so get out
there and start living.
57 10/23/09 11:06 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 57

Stay Close to home...

Limited Edition

For your Short-Term Rehabilitation.

When recovering from surgery or illness, it’s therapeutic
to be close to your home and to have friends and family
around to help you through the recovery process.

Stroke | Orthopedics | Arthritis | Amputees Open Houses

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58 10/28/09 1:36 PM Page 1

"I think women rule the world and that no man has
ever done anything that a woman either hasn't
allowed him to do or encouraged him to do."
— Bob Dylan
59 10/22/09 4:14 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 59

Don’t miss our huge

Black Friday Event!
7am - 3pm
Special $10 and $20 racks, as well as,
huge savings throughout the store!

to keep you cozy on cool nights T-F: 10:30-6

at affordable prices! Sat: 10:30-4
843.332.1118
119 W. Carolina Ave.
Hartsville

HARTSVILLE ARMY-NAVY
122 W. Carolina Ave. • Downtown Hartsville
843.332.3993

The Downtown Hartsville Merchants

invite you to enjoy the ultimate holiday shopping experience during their annual

Christmas Open House!

Thursday, November 19th • 6pm-9pm
Join us downtown and browse through our unique shops.
You are certain to find the special gift that you have been seeking for that special someone!

•Special Savings Coordinated by the

•Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus Hartsville Downtown Development
•Door Prizes Association. Please call
•Homemade Refreshments 843.332.1600 for more information.
•Sidewalk Caroling
60 10/23/09 10:55 AM Page 1
Wings for the Spirit
a time for
Thanksgivng
Have you had a good laugh today? Pass these on to someone else who could use a break.
- Love has been described as a three-ring circus. First comes the engagement ring, then the
wedding ring. After that, the suffering.
- One woman told another, “I’m a light eater. The minute it gets light, I start to eat.”
- Little boy: “Dad, did you go to Sunday School every Sunday?”
Dad: “Yes, son, I surely did.”
Little boy: “I bet it won’t do me any good either.”
- A husband went to buy his wife a gift for her 50th birthday and picked up a cute music box
that played “Happy Birthday.” Thinking all played the same tune, he bought one and gave it
to his wife. When she lifted the lid, out came the tune “The Old Gray Mare, She Ain’t What
She Used To Be!”
- Two things cause unhappy marriages – men and women.
- A husband sat down with the TV remote and yelled to his wife in the kitchen, “Honey, is
there anything you want to say before football season starts?”
Here we are already into November, the month we celebrate Thanksgiving.
Have you ever wondered about being at the first Thanksgiving occasion? Our forefa-
thers endured hardships and had strong faith and trust in God. They knew
from painful experiences about giving thanks in everything. What
about you and me today? Paul says in Philippians 4:11, “I
have learned to be content, whatever the circum-
stances.” In I Thessalonians 5:18, the Bible tells us,
“In every thing, give thanks.” No matter what
the circumstances may be, be thankful
and give thanks,“for this is the
will of God for you who
Does this mean are in Christ Jesus.”
we are grateful for all the
sorrowful tragedies and dis-
appointments that come in our
lives? To be honest, none of us welcome
hardships in life – even though we grow from
them. You and I would rather remain in our com-
fort zones. However, it is when we are overwhelmed
in our circumstances that we come out of our comfort
zones and desperately seek Jesus.
While God does not cause sickness or tragedies, we are to trust
and give thanks in everything because He will be with us through
it all. Joshua 1:5: “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I
will not fail you or forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 also promises,“He
will never leave us, never fail us nor forsake us.”
The only way to the mountaintop is through the valley, but
we do not travel alone. Romans 8:28 assures us, “He works all things
for good for those who love Him and are called according to His pur-
pose.” Everything Satan intends for harm, God can turn it around for
good as we trust Him. Our disappointments are often God’s appoint-
ments. God will never lead us where His grace will not keep us. He said
His grace would be sufficient in II Corinthians 12:9. Remember, we can
do all things through Christ Who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
by Sherry S. Page Atkinson
When I am weak (in human strength), then am I (truly) strong (able, powerful in divine
strength) (II Corinthians 12:10).
“No weapon formed against you shall prosper and every tongue that shall rise against
you in judgment, you shall show to be in the wrong” (Isaiah 54:17). “He is able to do
exceedingly and abundantly all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). “If we ask any-
thing according to God’s will, He answers and hears us” (I John 5:14). Psalm 23:5
encourages us that “God prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies. He
anoints us with oil and our cup runs over.”
In John 15:16, Jesus tells us, “You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I
have appointed you that you might go and bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your
fruit may remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in My Name, He may give it to
you.”
God would also say to you today: (Jeremiah 33:3) “Call to Me and I will answer you
and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know”
(do not recognize, have knowledge of and understand).
God is so worthy of our praise! “Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving”
(Psalm 95:2). “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving” (Psalm 100:4). “I will offer to You the
sacrifice of thanksgiving and will call on the name of the Lord” (Psalm 116:17).
“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circum-
stance and in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiv-
ing, continue to make your wants known to God. And,
God’s peace, which transcends all understanding, shall
guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus
(Philippians 4:6-7).
Jesus is with you – and
in you – to help you
overcome and be victori-
ous in your situations. There is
unlimited power in praise and
thanksgiving. Because He lives and is in
control, let us – in everything – give thanks.
If you have never invited Jesus into your heart
and life or want to be sure of your salvation, you
might pray something like this: Dear Heavenly Father,
thank You for loving and creating me. I believe You sent
Your only Son, Jesus, to die on a cruel cross for my sins.
I am sorry for my sins and ask You, Jesus, to forgive me.
Come into my heart and save me. I want to commit my
life to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit that I may be
strong to live the Christian life and be a loving, bold witness
for You. Help me, Jesus. In Your powerful Name, I pray.
Amen.
Sherry S. Page Atkinson lives in Marion with her husband, Jimmy.
Those wishing to contact her may do so at the following address:
6526 South Highway 41. Or, you may e-mail her at: sherrya@nethwy.com.
61 10/22/09 4:13 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 61

The Perfect Thanksgiving...

On Thanksgiving, We're Thankful for You!

Customer Appreciation Days Dec 3 - 5

Hartsville Furniture Co.

& Sleep Center
Since 1934
133 East College Ave • 843-332-9041 • M-F 10-5:30, Sat 10-3

Commercial & Residential Design and Furnishings

Where you’ll find everything you

need to dress your dwelling!
Seeing It Is Believing it!
Visit us in our Upscale Loft Condo:
119-D North 5th St. • Above Juice
Entrance in rear

843.332.5103
b g r a n t @ m a n t i s s a r o w. c o m
M-F 9-5 or by appointment
62 10/27/09 5:27 PM Page 1

The CANCER by J. Marshall Dent, III

We Don’t Talk About

O Oftentimes, I’m approached by the readers of She Magazine about how I come
up with ideas to write about. The story behind this topic is particularly personal and
began when I was having my teeth cleaned. My Dental Hygienist told me the story of
her mom and how she had seen her gynecologist and was told not to worry about a
lesion she had noticed. She noticed the lesion had grown over the years and sought a
taken and a definitive diagnosis is made. Fortunately, vulvar cancer is commonly indo-
lent and extends slowly and metastasizes fairly late, hence the great opportunity to pre-
vent serious advanced disease through education of patients and physicians. A biopsy must
be done on all suspicious lesions of the vulva, including lumps, ulcers or pigmented areas.
The most common type of vulvar cancer is squamous cell, comprising over
second opinion only to be told,“This doesn’t look good.” Then, a biopsy was taken. The 85% of all vulvar cancers. This is the same tissue type found on any part of your skin
diagnosis of cancer was confirmed. She was diagnosed in January of this year and began and responsible for skin cancer – the fastest growing cancer. The next most common
treatment soon after. She died of her cancer in October of this year – before I could is melanoma, which is associated with usually hyperpigmented lesions and atypical moles
get her story written. Her daughter asked me to tell her story so others wouldn’t have found anywhere on the body.
to go through what her mother endured and suffer such an untimely death. Her moth- The treatment of vulvar cancer depends on the stage of the disease, which is depend-
er’s wish was that others may be informed about this deadly cancer in which so little is ent on the size of the lesion and lymphatic spread. The treatment is usually surgical,
spoken about in the media. involving a radical vulvectomy – major surgery that involves the removal of the labia
I realize that the month of October was Breast Cancer Month. All the media majora, minora, clitoris and skin and lymphatic system of the vulva, plus inguinal and
attention breast cancer has received –from NFL players wearing pink to the recent PGA pelvic lymph node dissection. The survival rates are as high as 90% for stages I and II
Tour star, Phil Mickelson’s wife’s diagnosis – breast cancer deserves much of the atten- with this therapy. The use of pelvic radiation is reserved for those with positive disease
tion it receives. But, it’s also a cancer that has a reliable screening modality in mammog- in the lymph nodes. Chemotherapy is
raphy, and we’re making some real progress in the survival rates of breast cancer reserved for those with widespread
patients. metastatic disease.
The cancer that I want to discuss doesn’t have a reliable screening test and is What is your role in the
oftentimes diagnosed late in the course. Sometimes, it’s the physician who is responsi- prevention of vulvar cancer? Self-
ble for the delayed diagnosis. Sometimes, the patient delays treatment because of lack examination of the vulva is a
of education about what the cancer looks like. Self-examination, combined with prop- starting point. You should be
er education to know what to look for, is the only real screening modality we have with aware of any changes in the
this type of cancer. The cancer I am referring to is – Vulvar Cancer. skin of your vulva by examin-
The vulva is the outer part of the female genitals. It includes the opening of the vagina, ing monthly, using a mirror and
the labia majora (outer lips), the labia minora (inner lips) and the clitoris. The space feeling for any unusual
between the vagina and the anus is called the perineum. Cancer of the vulva most often growths. Look for any areas
affects the inner edges of the labia majora or the labia minora. that are white, darkly pigment-
Historically, cancer of the vulva accounts for 3% to 5% of all female cancers. ed or red and irritated. If you
During recent years, it appears that the incidence has been on the rise. It is a cancer of should notice any new
most commonly the postmenopausal female, but the incidence is increasing in the growths, nodules, bumps or
younger female under the age of 40. There seems to be a strong correlation between ulcers (open sores), bring it to
human papillomavirus (HPV) and vulvar cancer early and later in life. The purpose of your physician’s attention.
this article is to educate, but it’s also to make women aware of any suspicious lesion or Don’t wait and see if the
growth and make sure that it’s brought to the attention of a physician well-versed in the physician notices the lesion.
diagnosis of vulvar cancer. If a lesion has grown or
What are the risk factors for vulvar cancer? There are no strong correlating changed, don’t be shy
risk factors with vulvar cancer. The incidence increases with age, with the average age about asking for a biopsy.
of diagnosis being 70. The human papillomavirus is a group of more than 100 types of When your doctor pre-
viruses commonly called warts. HPV is responsible for more than half of vulvar cancers scribes a topical medical
overall and most cases in younger women. Smoking increases the risk of vulvar cancer, treatment, it’s your obli-
and women with high-risk HPV have a much higher risk of developing vulvar cancer if gation to make sure to
they smoke. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) increases the risk of vulvar cancer follow up to see that
by weakening the immune system. A common disorder of the skin, lichen sclerosus, the area is resolv-
which causes the vulvar skin to become thin and itchy, is a risk factor if left untreated. ing. If the conser-
The treatment of lichen sclerosus with topical steroids seems to have a protective effect vative treatment
on the progression to vulvar cancer. In addition, women with cervical cancer have a isn’t working, the
higher risk of vulvar cancer. Women who have had melanoma or atypical moles else- doctor can then
where on the body have an increased risk of developing a melanoma of the vulva, as well. proceed to a
What are the signs of vulvar cancer? One of the most common signs is itching of the biopsy. A small
vulva that doesn’t resolve with treatment or seems to be recurrent. A cut or sore that amount of dis-
will not heal, a lump or mass that is growing and usually painless, bleeding that is not comfort in the
from the vagina and a chronic burning discomfort are some of the signs that should be office can save
brought to your doctor’s attention. Any change in the size, texture or color of a mole you lifelong
or hyperpigmented area of the vulva should raise suspicion. discomfort
Unfortunately, the vulvar cancer goes many months – or years – before a diag- – and possibly
nosis is made, thereby increasing the incidence of lymphatic spread and a worse prog- your life!
nosis. Long-term itching or a lump or mass of the vulva is present in more that 50% of
patients with vulvar cancer. The problem with vulvar cancer is the delay in treatment
by the patient, who has symptoms for an average of two to sixteen months. Once the
physician is seen, the biopsy is delayed by another twelve months because of conserva-
tive medical treatment. So, on average, we’re looking at two years before a biopsy is

If you have questions about the information in this article, you may contact Dr. Dent at
Complete Women’s Health Care in Florence. Dr. Dent is Board Certified in Family Practice and Obstetrics
and Gynecology and also holds an Advanced Certification in Menopausal Medicine.
63 10/22/09 3:09 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 63

Happy Thanksgiving

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64 10/23/09 11:28 AM Page 1

Florence City Council will hold first

WHAT: Florence City Council Meeting for the first
reading of a smokefree workplace reading of smoke free workplace ordinance
ordinance on November 9, 2009, at
1:00 p.m. This ordinance will prohibit WHEN: Monday, November 9, 2009 at 1:00 p.m.
smoking in all indoor worksites in the
WHERE: Room 604 of the City-County Complex,
City of Florence, including restaurants 180 North Irby St., Florence, 29501
and bars. If you support this ordinance,
WEAR: Black clothing
please attend the meeting and bring a
friend. Octavia Williams-Blake, sponsor
WHY: To protect all employees from the dangers
of the ordinance, has asked that all sup- of secondhand smoke
porters wear black on the day of the
meeting. This is a significant moment for Secondhand
not only those that work in Florence, but smoke results in
also those that come here to shop, dine, an estimated
and play. Please show your support! 50,000 annual
In a smoky bar deaths in the
for 2 hours? It’s United States.
Secondhand the same as
smoke exposure smoking 4 ciga-
causes heart rettes.
disease and lung
cancer in
non-smoking
adults.
Even high quality
ventilation sys-
tems doesn’t pro-
tect from toxins
in secondhand
smoke.

This is a worker health issue.

All people, whether they work
in office buildings or bars and
restaurants, have a right to
breathe clean air while at work.

www.smokefreeflorence .org Funding for ad Provided by a Community Grant from the SC Tobacco Collaborative
65 10/28/09 1:22 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 65

Trust a Name that Says it All . . .

Master’s
Touch
Holiday Center for Health
& Healing
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67 10/27/09 4:54 PM Page 1
68 10/23/09 11:01 AM Page 1
"Do not save your loving speeches
For your friends till they are dead;
Do not write them on their tombstones,
Birds OF A
Feather
Speak them rather now instead.”
- Anna Cummins
H
Have you ever noticed how friends open all kinds of doors in our lives – the
ones we’re often too afraid to open on our own? Those of us who find it sometimes
difficult to mingle comfortably, for example, can usually rely on our more outgoing
friends to push us along in that general direction. I imagine it’s not unlike teaching
pigeons to strut their stuff like peacocks do. I’m not a tail feathers displayer by nature
– more like a bobber and weaver, really, so the teaching task can be quite daunting, time-
consuming and messy.
I had the privilege this summer of attending a party for a young woman prepar-
ing to enter seminary school in Kentucky. Her family gathered around her in celebra-
tion of the calling she had answered, allowing a few extra friends (thankfully, me includ-
ed) to share in their happiness. The food table literally groaned with offerings – from
chicken bog to pepper slaw, from barbecue and buns to homemade mac ‘n’ cheese, from
pig pickin’ cake to chocolate lush – and nary a crumb was consumed until prayers were
said in blessing and in thanksgiving. There were babies and parents and grandparents
and assorted relatives of all ages. It reminded me very much of home.Though the words
spoken were just a bit different (things like PEA-cans instead of pe-CONs, and sweat-
ing like monkeys instead of like pigs), the love floating through the air in that home was
completely recognizable, regardless of which syllables were accented.
Sitting around the card table in the game room, we listened and laughed our-
selves silly as one of the relatives (though certainly not claimed by all in attendance)
began to regale this northern transplant with strange southern stories of jack and jenny
donkey parades with peacock feathers and tick-sucking egrets, while his (long-suffering?)
wife serenely enjoyed her meal in another, much quieter corner of the same room. In
fact, when someone at the table offered to switch seats with her so she could be near
her dear husband, she quickly responded that she was absolutely delighted to remain in
her peaceful little corner chair.You just had to be there to know exactly why this was
both a wise and completely understandable choice.
So, what’s the point of this information? Good question! Not too long ago, I
would have declined that invitation to join in such a happy celebration.Actually, not long
ago, I would not have even been invited in the first place, as I was much too busy
being alone and lonely. Saying “no” was my standard
response to any and all social events. And
then this small yet mighty band of new
southern friends began to slowly apply a
much needed attitude make-over. They
started by encouraging me to simply use the
“yes” response more often. (This, of course,
served their purposes well; like saying “yes” to
pool floating time in the backyard – but that’s
another story.) I’m fairly certain they don’t look upon
their encouragements as heroic or awe-inspiring.
But I beg to differ.
I have gained the privilege of these few close friends
in the course of three years of southern living.
Marti Miller lives in Marion, SC and counts the blessings of friendships every day.
by Marti Miller
They have changed my life here – and all for the better. Not to say that my
“old” friends from home are off the list. They most certainly are not. I count on them
to keep me grounded – old friends make the best mirrors for us to see who we have
been and who we are now. But these friends I know now are the diamonds. And they
mean more to me than almost anything (sorry, can’t have everything).
Mark Twain made a profound statement when he penned these words: "Grief
can take care of itself, but to get the full value of joy you must have somebody to divide
it with." Yes, I would say that is absolutely correct. Friends are for joy-sharing moments
such as these: when our children accomplish a goal or step out on their own for the
first time as adults (consider just how difficult it was for the aforementioned parents to
drive that ten hour return trip without their only child), our friends are there to remind
us of the joy; when we step out again for the first time in over 25 years on an actual
date and we’re not sure if it’s joy or terror we feel, our friends are there to help us
choose the joy (and joy it certainly has become – more on that in a later article); when
we discover that a loved one is losing a life battle, our friends are there to share the joy
that is found in cherishing simple memories; when we stumble and fall on our way to
living in Christ’s love, our friends remind us of the joy found in standing once again.
The joy list is probably endless as it relates to our friends’ abilities to both
understand and help relieve our sadness and our losses and our everyday, plain old
funks. No amount of concealer (speaking of which, am I the only one around here that
ends up concealing her whole face with that stuff?) or wardrobe changes or push-up
bras or even peacock feathers can do for our image what a friend can do simply by shar-
ing the joy in a few moments of tear-stained, gut-wrenching, wrinkle-making, running to
the bathroom and hoping you make it in time, honest laughter. It’s wonderful exercise.
And snorting helps clear the sinuses.
So, in this month of gratitude, thank you, my friends. You know who you are.
But in case you’re not sure, here’s a list of helpful hints: aerobic exercise and birthday
surprises, razors, 45’s, hot choker donuts, rod and real, food for the road, pool floats,
Sunday classes choosing pigs or chickens, and products that sparkle plenty. But you are
not my southern friends anymore; you are simply, with-
out any qualifying adjectives, my friends. I love all
y’all – especially that sparkly one (again,
more on that later…maybe).
69 10/22/09 3:40 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 69

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70 10/23/09 11:27 AM Page 1
Sunshine
state of mind by Cookie Cawthon
Fear is my thing. Most everybody has something that they will forever battle.
Mine is fear. I am afraid of being carjacked, kidnapped and raped, being stung by a bee,
returning a purchase to a less-than-friendly retail clerk, suspicious moles, hoity-toity social
engagements, everything concerning my children, all water-dwelling creatures, the long-
term effects of my vast consumption of aspartame, my girls’ opinions of me when they are
grown, shots, and looking foolish. The list is endless. So. It’s not at all surprising that I’m
afraid of flying.
That was not always the case. I first flew to England thirteen years ago and actu-
ally kinda fell in love with it; fear was not my debility during the seeming invincibility of my
youth. I flew a few times after that and continued to enjoy it. Then there was a day when
I was twenty-eight, pregnant with our first child, and had a husband flying across the coun-
try to Las Vegas for a business meeting – September 11, 2001. In the confusion of that
day, I could not find out any information regarding his flight out of Atlanta, could not con-
tact him, could not wrap my hormone-affected brain around what was going on. It was
on that day that I absorbed the vulnerability of flight and have allowed it to sink deep into
my bones. I just remember bursting in to a sob when the insurance lady at my obstetri-
cian’s office asked an innocuous, payment-related question about my husband… She got
more than she bargained for on that one, for sure.
I next flew to Nassau on a business reward trip, and that was a riot to anyone
looking on. I rigidly sat in my seat, clutching my Bible turned open to the first page of the
book of Joshua. Tears streamed down my face as I silently chanted God’s call to courage.
Freak! It’s hysterical to me to even remember, so I chuckle to wonder what Chris’ col-
leagues thought as I threatened to unravel. Freak! My poor husband! I could barely
enjoy our vacation knowing that I had to fly back home.
I shared a few moons back about our trip to San Francisco and that much-dread-
ed flight; it actually turned out to be a pleasant experience though not completely free of
fear. Well, I flew again two days ago, and the anticipatory fear was back in a large way. I
documented the adventure, and these were my thoughts:
I’m on a flight to Atlanta right now – actually my least favorite place to be – on
a plane. It scares the sense out of me. I have teared up and let them spill over a few
times this morning. I am flying alone for the first time ever, meeting Chris in Jacksonville
on a business trip. It’s so loud, but that’s good. It means that everything is working. I
even left a note on a napkin in my truck in case today is my day. It says,
“To my C’s- I love you more than anything on earth, and I love
Jesus like mad. Just wanted you to know ? .” Still may be my
day yet – it’s early (12:00), but He has so reminded me of
His love and care for me that maybe I’d be okay with
it. I checked my computer this morning (as I
obsessively do), and a dear friend had twittered
the exact same verse I quoted a gajillion times
the last time I flew. I think it is Isaiah 26:3 –
“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose
mind is stayed on You…”
On the ground, it was a gloomy,
grey day of dark cloud cover. Ominous
and foreboding. I have only ever
flown during perfect sunshiny
conditions. The wind and the
cloud density and the chance of
storm only compounded my
anxieties. Everything in me
wanted to drive to
Jacksonville. To call Chris
to say that I could not do
it. But I know so thor-
oughly that God never
gives us permission to
pacify our fears. His
most frequent
reassurance is,
“Fear not.”
So, it must be a pretty natural human reaction, but He never allows us to give way to it.
How many times have I told myself (and others) that God always wants us to choose what
is best over what is good? It was best for me to defeat my fear today. It was best for
me to need Him so completely – rather than doing what I could have done on my own.
I sat down after checking- in and flipped open my favorite book. On the
title page, I had written a quote from within the text, “…because I am His daughter.”
Though it was used in a different context, it has a singular meaning for me today. Come
what may today, I will be okay BECAUSE I AM HIS DAUGHTER!”
I boarded and took what was an ideal seat – no window and no seatmate.
So I powered my I-pod and tried to blast the noises, the conversations, my thoughts, my
nausea. Didn’t work and I was informed that I wouldn’t be able to listen during take-off.
Had forgotten that. Then, we took an additional twenty minutes correcting the weight
balance, which totally stressed me out. The thought of this plane taking off burdened by too
much weight further fueled my certainty of disaster. Good riddance, I thought, as they boot-
ed three stand-bys.
Then it was time.
I closed my eyes and prepared for take-off – my least favorite part of this least
favored activity. This irrational fear is so big in me that it is the only time that I genuine-
ly fear that my body is totally going to override my mind. That I may lose control – and
every bit of food consumed over the past two days. I prayed that my fear would not over-
whelm me. I was as afraid as I have ever been in my life. The discordant vibration began;
acceleration began. The squeaking and the creaking within the cabin is always unnerving.
I clamped my eyes shut and continued to pray for safety. We raced down the runway and
then we flew. I kept my eyes closed for many minutes – still climbing. Still climbing. It
was smoother than I expected. Loud but fairly smooth, and I began to recount my bless-
ings as I thanked Him for keeping me alive at least that far into the trip, thanked Him for
the noise, thanked Him for super nice Suzie – our flight attendant. And then…
I summoned the courage to open my eyes. I opened my eyes and turned to
glimpse out the window behind me, and WOW! It was exactly what I imagine Antarctica
might look like – though I don’t know: pure white mountain ranges and glaciers floating in
a perfect blue sea. And there was sunshine up there. Crisp, brilliant, unadulterated sun-
shine. And do you know what? Sunshine was exactly what I needed today! SUNSHINE!
I watched out of the window for a while – just marveling at Him. Then it
occurred to me. I would have missed the sunshine if I had driven. I would
have missed the sunshine, and it was spectacular! I had to do it His
way, and I had to do the hard thing, but He gave me sunshine.
Though flying is still not a fave, the view is!
More and more I am discovering the theme of my life – at least
during this season: Do the best thing, forsaking the good.
Do the hard thing and He delivers the sunshine. So maybe,
just maybe, remarkable women like
Mother Teresa, Rosa Parks,
and Helen Keller share a
history of choosing what is
best over what is good, choosing to
do the hard thing and reaping the
sunshine. Just a thought. Not an
easy one to stomach though, espe-
cially for a scaredy cat like me.
Stay tuned as I fly to Kenya later
this month (hee, hee, hee)…
Cookie Cawthon is just plumb
crazy in Flo-town these days –
loving her life and her man –
chasing her dream, her
cheerleader, and her gymnast.
71 10/23/09 11:26 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 71

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72 10/27/09 5:30 PM Page 1

Kristen Rewis
Susan Curran
Marion
Florence
“I would like to invent ““I just want to be the best
something!” person I can be and to
always set a good example
for my children and grand-
children.”

rao rd inary
g ext mplish
thin acco
me to E a rth?
o
s wis h e o n
re
Is the t you ur tim
tha g yo
n
duri

Tracy Yon
Florence
“I wish to write a book! I’m in the
process of writing my manuscript
right now, and I’m going to a writing
class taught by one of my favorite
authors, Hollis Gillespie, in November.
It will be done one day!”

Kathleenen
Boatwright
Kacy White Hartson
Hartsville
Marion
“I want to live my life being the best mother “I want to own my
to my three children that I can possibly be. own hair salon and
By setting a good example for them, I can use my horses to help
accomplish anything I want.” mentally-challenged
children.”
73 10/27/09 4:26 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 73

Marion’s 20th Annual

Community Christmas Tree
Lighting Celebration & Holiday Prelude
Saturday, December 5th &
S u n d a y, D e c e m b e r 6 t h
December 5th - Highlights
Sponsored By: •The Artists’ Place in the HMRA building : 9:30am-4pm
•Photos with Santa at Byars Park on Main Street : 10am-1pm
•Carriage Rides to The Inn on Harlee : 10am-1pm
•Marion Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade on Main :
4:30pm

December 6th - Highlights

•Artists’ Place in the HMRA building : 1-4pm
•Pilot Club Soup & Cornbread supper and bake sale : 5pm-7pm at
the Marion Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. There will also be a silent
auction and raffle during the evening.
•The arrival of Santa Claus, aboard the City of Marion Fire Truck: 5:30pm
•Pre-Christmas Tree Lighting Show : 5:45pm
•Annual Tree Lighting and Program at the Square : 6pm
•Fireworks immediately following at Withlacoochee Park

d Tree Lighting Celebration - 6:00pm

A Carol Lighting Service held at the
Courthouse to light a huge magnolia tree on the
square, featuring over 10,000 lights. The courthouse
steps, the town square fountain and Main Street will
be lit with over 1,400 luminaries.
Additional Highlights...
• The arrival of Santa Claus aboard the City of Marion
Fire Truck - 5:30pm
• Hot Apple Cider - Sponsored by local banking
institutions
•Handicapped section available
• Nativity Scene
• Children’s Community Chorus

Sunday December 7th (following the tree lighting) at 7:00pm at Withlacoochee Park.

D o n’ t M i s s T h i s E x c i t i n g E v e n t !
74 10/28/09 3:24 PM Page 1

74 • November 2009 • She Magazine

Welcome to Downtown Lake City Shopping

Tastefully... Christmas

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Florence, SC Lake City, SC
843-662-0971 843-394-1494

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Dillon, SC Marion, SC
843-774-9243 843-423-2492

62 Public Square
Darlington, SC
843-395-2252
75 10/27/09 5:12 PM Page 1

Presenting
REMARKABLE
WOMEN

You know her; she is kind

and giving to everyone -
but not always to herself.
Most often,
her good deeds are done
behind the scenes and may even
seem to go unnoticed.
Until now.

You know her; she has worked

hard and sacrificed much to
start her own business. She is
an entrepreneur, and all the
while, she’s a friend, a mother,
a wife and a volunteer.
She has often wondered
if all the hard work
was worth it.
Until now.

REMARKABLE WOMEN
feature stories begin
on page 76.
76 10/27/09 4:07 PM Page 1
Remarkable Women
by Carol T. Adams, PhD
TWIN
honorees
Recognizing women in our area for their accom-
plishments has gotten a little easier. The Tribute to Women
and Industry (TWIN) Project (sponsored by the YWCA) is
now active in the Pee Dee. The goal for the YWCA has long
been to “empower women and eliminate racism.” Although
the TWIN Project is new to the Pee Dee area, there is a sig-
nificant history of this recognition in other areas of the state.
Thanks to the efforts of GE Healthcare and their HR
Manager, Darryl Davids, nine women in the Pee Dee were
honored last year. This year, another nine were selected as
honorees, and their accomplishments were celebrated at a
lovely banquet at the SiMT Building at Florence-Darlington
Technical College on Tuesday evening, October 13, with
approximately 175 people in attendance. Former CBS News
Woman, Jane Robelot, was the speaker for the event and
gave an inspiring talk about her own mentors (and even a
few detractors) as she moved from small-town radio jour-
nalist to national news woman.
If you’re not familiar with the TWIN Project, it was
undertaken to honor women who have – and are – making
significant contributions in their professional lives and to
honor those companies that are recognizing and rewarding
high achievement in women. These honorees, in turn, foster,
support and encourage achievement in other women. The
project is designed to honor women in all professional areas
– educators, engineers, managers, health care providers,
banking professionals, etc. Companies pay a sponsorship and
are invited to nominate honorees. Funds raised by the
TWIN Project are used for programs in the Pee Dee that
encompass the YWCA philosophy of eliminating racism and
empowering women.
This year’s honorees were:
Patressa Gardner – Project Manager for the
SC Advanced Technological Education National Resource
Center at FDTC. In addition to her career in technical edu-
cation, her experience as the Quality Assurance and Safety
Coordinator in a manufacturing environment has provided
her with impeccable skills to serve as a business and indus-
try liaison for the college. She is the recipient of the 2008
FDTC Outstanding Administrator of the Year Award. She
earned a BS Degree in Economics from Francis Marion
University and an MA Degree in Economics from Clemson
University.
Jill Heiden – Vice President for Institutional
Advancement, Florence-Darlington Technical College, Jill is
charged with developing and sustaining relationships with alum-
ni, donors, prospective donors and corporate representatives
Carol T. Adams, PhD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with McLeod Family Medicine Center in Florence.
top, left-right: Patressa Gardner, Donna Sullivan,Teresa Johnson
Ramey, Judit Sobel, Alberta Major • bottom, left-right: Alice
Morrow, Jill Heiden, Andrea Luppe, Octavia Williams-Blake
who utilize the college for training, workforce preparation
and economic development. She has served on numerous
community boards. She was the recipient of the 2008
Economic Development Ambassador of the Year for
Florence County and a finalist for the SC Human Resource
Person of the Year in 2003 and 2007. She received her
degree from Pennsylvania State University.
Andrea Luppe – Process Engineer/Process
Team Leader with GE Healthcare. Although she has short
tenure with GE, she has already excelled as both Process
Engineer and acting Maintenance and Facilities Manager,
streamlining contract services resulting in net savings of a
million dollars for the company. She, too, is active in the
community through the GE Volunteers. Andrea is a graduate
of Clemson University with a BS in Ceramic Engineering.
She also holds an MBA Degree from Francis Marion
University.
Alberta Major – Alberta is employed with
Florence School District One and serves as a permanent
substitute teacher at Moore Intermediate School.
Additionally, she tutors in the afterschool program and is the
sponsor of SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere), an
organization at the school which was named Chapter of the
Year for 2007-2008. She is active in her community and
presently is on the Dean’s List at Coker College where she
is pursuing a Degree in Elementary Education. Her gradua-
tion date is scheduled for 2010.
Alice Morrow – Alice is Club Director of the
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area where she has been
for the past three years. She has over 25 years’ experience
in social services working with individuals from age 6 to 101.
She received the 2009 South Carolina Award for Program
Excellence in Health and Life Skills and is a 2009 state nom-
inee for the prestigious William S. White/Mott Foundation
Achievement Award for Innovations in Supporting Student
Success. She is a graduate of Beal College.
Teresa Johnson Ramey – Teresa is
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students at Francis
Marion University. Since becoming Dean, she has revitalized
the University Programming Board, which is responsible for
providing cultural and social events for over 4,000 students.
She created and implemented “Leadership FMU,” a leadership
development program which emphasizes integrity, character
education and situational leadership. She received her BA
Degree in Speech Communication from Western Kentucky
University and her MS in Instructional Development from
Jacksonville State University.
photography by Angel Benenhaley
Judit Sobel – Materials Team Leader for Magnet
Staging at GE Healthcare, Judit is a certified Supply Chain
Professional. As a result of her creativity and transportation
skills, she has saved hundreds of thousands of dollars for GE
Healthcare during her twelve years with the company – an
accomplishment that is very much appreciated during these
tough economic times. She is involved with the GE
Volunteers, and she is an active community leader. She
obtained her BA in Business Administration and Economics
from the University of Maryland and her MBA from Oxford
Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Donna Sullivan – Chief Quality Officer at
Carolinas Hospital System, Donna ensures compliance with
Regulatory, State, Federal and Joint Commission require-
ments. She received the 1998 Douglas Smith Quorum of
Excellence Award. She has also been recognized on the
Carolinas Hospital System Wall of Fame, the Caring Hands
Award, the 2007 Clinical Manager of the Year and is a 2008
Palmetto Gold Award Recipient. She received a BS in
Nursing from the Medical College of Georgia.
Octavia Williams-Blake – Director of
McLeod Occupational Health at McLeod Health. Under her
leadership, McLeod Regional Medical Center and three of its
affiliate organizations received the 2006 and 2007 South
Carolina Safety Award. All six of the facilities within the McLeod
Health organization received the South Carolina Safety Award
in 2008. She was elected to the Florence City Council in 2008
and continues to serve in that role, as well. She obtained her
BA Degree from Columbia College and her J.D. Degree from
the University of South Carolina School of Law.
These honorees will be charged with supporting
other women over the next year by organizing workshops
and setting up service projects to help empower other
women in the community.
Those of us who have served these first two years
as members of the TWIN Honorary Board and proud of our
participation in this project are: Dr. Carol Adams, Jodi
Beauregard, Joan Billheimer, Libby Cooper, Darryl Davids,
Terry Dingle, Jill Heiden, Pam Little-McDaniel, Charlene
Lowery, Michele Pridgen and Libby Wiersema.
If you know women who should be honored, contact
any of the honorees; Darryl Davids, HR Manager at GE
Healthcare; or any of the Board Members for more informa-
tion. We can be proud of all the women who have been hon-
ored. When you see them, congratulate them on their accom-
plishments; they are outstanding leaders in the Pee Dee Area.
There are lots more out there, so let’s set about to honor
them in the future.
77 10/26/09 10:23 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 77

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78 10/23/09 1:44 PM Page 1

A Remarkable Woman

DAVIS
My wife, Kim Davis, is a remarkable woman. God brought
us together on December 4th, 1987. I fell in love with her because
of her huge and loving heart. She is caring, loving and unselfish,
putting everybody ahead of herself. Kim has been my better half
for almost twenty years and is a wonderful mother to our son,
Brian.
Along with taking care of us and the house and going to
Brian’s ballgames, she has found the time to serve the Lord at
Marion Baptist in various ways. Kim’s faith is unwavering and the
most important thing in her life. As long as I have known her, she
has loved going to church and serving God through music. She
has been a Sunday School teacher in the Children’s Department,
Director of the Children’s Choir, served on the Handbells Choir
and is also a faithful member of the Adult Sanctuary Choir. She
loves working with children, and she loves using her God-given
musical talents to lift up praises to the Lord.
She also enjoys helping anyone in need, whether it is
kim someone in our family or a stranger. With a heart of gold, she has
the reputation of doing anything that is asked of her. Serving her
family means that she loves doing things for her family – cooking,
housework, just being there. That goes for her extended family
(my dad; her mom and dad, Perry and Karen; and the girls), as well.
She is such a special mom because she has shared the
love of Jesus with Brian since he was a baby. She loves spending
time with him and just doing simple things. Her view of mother-
hood, as portrayed in her sentiments below, is truly what makes
Kim a remarkable woman. - Doug Davis

God’s Child
(written by Kim for her son, Brian)
“So many nights I wept quietly, God’s rainbow of promise colored the sky.
Praying ‘Heavenly Father, My Heavenly Father answered my cry.
photo by Liz Odom Would you please give me a child! God gave me a child!
Oh, please give me a child. God gave me a child!
I long for a child I can hold tenderly.

Praise God for Motherhood! - Kim Davis

If it be Your will, Oh Lord,
Would you please give me a child?
Lord, please give me a child.
Now I have a child,
A child that I can love,
A precious little child
If asked for a definition of motherhood, I scripture reminds me that, as Brian’s mother, I need Sent from Heaven above.
would say that motherhood is the God-given bless- to refrain from trying to make him what I want him I’m ready for a child. And he will always know
ing and responsibility of raising a child that God cre- to be. What God expects me to do is to teach Brian A child that I can love. The Father loves him so,
A precious little child, ‘Cause he is God’s child.
ated in a manner that is pleasing to Him. God gave to seek God’s will in every aspect of his life. If he Sent from Heaven above.
me that blessing when my precious Brian was born will do that, God will mold him into the Christian And he will always know, Every day I get down on my knees,
on June 24, 1994. young man He wants him to become. The Father loves him so, And thank the Lord for giving me
I will never forget how wonderful it felt to Thirdly, Galatians 5:22 references charac- ‘Cause he is God’s child.’ This precious child.
Oh, this precious child!
hold him for the first time. From that moment on, teristics that, as Christians, we should always strive God spoke to me
my life has been so full of joy, watching Brian grow in to exemplify. “But, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, And said, ‘Where is your faith? God gave me this child,
the grace of God. But, with that joy comes the ever- peace, patience, faithfulness, gentleness and self-con- You must wait patiently, A child that I can love,
present reality that God has entrusted me with His trol.” As a Christian mother, God expects me to And I will give you a child. A precious little child,
I will give you a child. Sent from Heaven above.
child to nurture both physically and spiritually. show Brian how to grow these fruits in his own life Lay all your burdens down at my feet. And he will always know
Thankfully, God has given us Scriptures in the Bible by praying, studying the Bible and going to church to Trust me with all of your heart, The Father loves him so,
that guide us as Christian mothers. worship God. ‘Cause I will give you a child. ‘Cause he is God’s child.
The first Scripture is Exodus 20:12,“Honor The last Scripture is Proverbs 22:6,“Train a I will give you a child.’
He is God’s child!”
your father and mother.” I have always loved my child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he God said, ‘Get ready for your child,
mother and father, but I loved them and respected will not turn from it.” I think of this Scripture a A child that you can love.
them even more when I became a mother because I great deal now that Brian is getting older. My daily A precious little child
could see more clearly how they had given of them- prayer for Brian is that he will always seek God’s Sent from Heaven above.
And he will always know Kim and her husband, Doug,
selves so unselfishly while raising my brother, Perry, guidance in everything and hold on to his Christian The Father loves him so, and their son, Brian, live in
and me. I knew that it was important for me to set faith. ‘Cause he is My child!’ Marion. She has worked full-
time at Francis Marion
that example for Brian by constantly showing my I want to close with the words to a song
University for 22 years. A ded-
parents the love and respect they so richly deserve. that I wrote for Brian about two years ago. The One day, the rain clouds all went away.
icated employee who will go
The sun shone bright on a brand new day.
The second Scripture is Isaiah 64:8,“Yet, O words echo every sentiment I have shared about beyond the call of duty, she
God gave me a child! was “Employee of the Year” in
Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are how incredibly blessed I am to be the mother of God gave me a child! 2008.
the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” This Brian Douglas Davis.
79 10/26/09 10:25 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 79

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80 10/26/09 9:40 AM Page 1

A Remarkable Woman

photo by Liz Odom

cathy
by Margaret Waddell

“...but, in time,
Cathy managed
to pick up the
pieces and
move on.”

When I read She Magazine’s

September issue, I couldn’t get shero off my
mind because I tell my daughter that she is my shero
very often.
Cathy Mogy lost her husband six years ago in a tragic accident.
Her children were eight- and ten-years-old at the time. She and Richard
had the “perfect” marriage. He was a very devoted husband and father.
He was very involved with his children, coaching Austin in baseball, foot-
ball and numerous other sports. He was just as involved with Sarah
Catherine, going to cheerleading events, horseback riding and all school
activities. He and Cathy taught a children’s Sunday school class at
Ebenezer Baptist Church, also.
Their lives were so full and sweet until that day in June, six
years ago, when Richard was killed. We didn’t see how life would ever
have joy again. We all had many very low times; but, in time, Cathy man-
aged to pick up the pieces and move on.
Cathy showed her strength after her husband’s death in many
ways. As we all were, she was devastated but strong and steady. She
is a strong, determined person in all aspects of her life. She made sure
her children didn’t miss out because they didn’t have a dad. Austin plays football
and shoots sporting clays at The King’s Academy where he is a junior. Sarah
Cathy works as a Nurse-Anesthetist at McLeod Regional Medical Center in
Catherine is in the ninth grade and competes in horse shows and is a JV cheerleader
Florence. Many times, her patients are children and that’s the part of her job she
at West Florence High School. Cathy never missed an event for her children. In fact,
enjoys most. She saves toys and treats for her young patients to make them com-
she was the mother doing the driving and providing refreshments. She even learned
fortable before their surgery. She is able to keep them calm and less afraid by her
how to drive a horse trailer to take Sarah Catherine and her horse to horse shows
ways with them. She’s a fun person – the kind of person everyone wants to be with.
all over the state.
Because she cares so much, she has many requests for her services.
Though heartbroken, she didn’t whine and cry about her situation; there
Our family is very close. Cathy’s sisters have stood with her (and she with
wasn’t time. She managed to work through and handle their financial concerns and
them) throughout the years, and especially since Richard’s death. We have many
went back to work not long after. I remember Cathy planned a horse riding birth-
good times together. When Cathy turned 40 the March after Richard died, her sis-
day party for Sarah Catherine on June 27th (Richard was killed on June 8). Soon
ters and I took her to London. Then, when Amy turned 40, we all went to New York.
afterwards, she fixed a meal for Austin’s football team before they played their game.
When Becky turned 40, we went to Charleston for a spa day. We try to make life
She never turned down a request to help out.
events special, especially for Cathy.
A wonderful person, Cathy is such a good mother to Austin (16) and Sarah
Although there were days when she felt she couldn’t go on, she would drag
Catherine (14). She makes sure she prays with her children before meals and with
herself up and get going. I want Cathy to know how much our family loves and
any difficult decisions. She cheers the loudest at her children’s sporting events, get-
admires her for the person she has shown herself to be. She is committed to be
ting the spectators involved. Friends are always welcome at the Mogy home. Her
the very best she can be.
house is the place where the kids feel welcome. She makes food and fun for all.
Cathy’s strength comes from the Lord – a supernatural answer to many
Always willing to go the extra mile, she is a busy woman with her work and children,
prayers for her, Austin and Sarah Catherine. Our Lord is the rock she goes to for
but she has time for others, too. Cathy is surely a person who, when life gives her
help. I know God watches over them and has blessed their lives in so many ways.
lemons, she makes lemonade. She tries to make each day special. She is an inspi-
Cathy Mogy is a remarkable woman.
ration to her children and all our family and friends.

Margaret Waddell and her husband of 46 years, Dean, have three daughters, Cathy, Amy and Becky. She is retired from The King’s Academy, a private Christian school in Florence. Her hobbies
include her four grandchildren – Austin (16), Sarah Catherine (14), Mary Margaret Campbell (9) and Charles Dean Walls (6). She enjoys playing tennis and gardening. She is also a volunteer at
McLeod Hospice, which she enjoys very much. Every second Tuesday, her friend, Merlee Shumpert, and she host a tea party for the patients and their families and the employees.
81 10/23/09 10:04 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 81

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82-83 10/28/09 10:30 AM Page 1
A Remarkable Woman
by Brandie Hewitt Berghorn
“(she) will tell you that her most prized
achievement in life is her family and the young
ladies that she has taught and coached.”
My mom, Patricia Ann Hewitt, is a
remarkable woman. She lives in Hartsville and
is 61-years-old. She was also born in Hartsville but
moved seventeen times before graduating from Hartsville
High. Afterwards, she attended Coker College when it
was an all-girls school.
Her love of basketball began when she entered high
school. She played at HHS (61-65) and at Coker (65-
69). While in college, she decided that she would like to
be a coach; however, her first love was teaching.
She started working at Hartsville High School in
1969 and taught there until she retired this past summer.
She also coaches basketball for HHS and will continue,
although she no longer teaches. She was named SC High
School Coach of the Year three times. Mom won
Converse National Coach of the Year in 1994 and
National Teacher of the Year in 2001. She has been to the
state championships five times for basketball and was just
recently inducted into the South Carolina Coaches Hall of
Fame in July 2009.
In 1997, she was one of the first inducted into
the Hall of Fame at Coker. She won the Distinguished
Achievement Award from Coker College in 2002.
Mom coached Shannon Johnson, who is in the
WNBA, and when Shannon went to the World Games in
China and to the Olympics in Greece, she took her coach
along for the ride.
In 2006, Mom flew to St. Louis, Missouri, to
receive the National Sportsmanship Award presented by
the Citizenship Through Sports Alliance and the St. Louis
Sports Commission for exemplary contributions to the
highest ethical standards and citizenship through sports.
God and her obedience to Him is what helped
Mom build a successful winning program. The things she
Brandie Hewitt Berghorn and her husband, Jonathan, have two children, Zackary (2 ?) and Rylee (17 months). She teaches Physical Education and is the
Assistant Athletic Director at Hartsville High School. She loves to scrapbook, spend time with family and friends and make bows for her little girl.
patricia ann
HEWITT
learned from basketball that she takes into her everyday
life is to have discipline, work hard and remember that life
is a game.
All the while she was teaching and coaching, she
and her husband of forty years, Robert Levan Hewitt,
managed to raise two children. Their son, Wayne
Hewitt, is 37 and lives in Texas. I’m the youngest and
I live in Hartsville. I taught and coached with Mom at
Hartsville High School. She also has five grandchil-
dren, with one more on the way.
Even though she has won numerous awards,
my mom will tell you that her most prized achieve-
ment in life is her family and the young ladies that she
has taught and coached. She is our family’s rock when
everything looks bleak. Everyone depends on her to
be the tough one that will listen and be by their side.
The one piece of advice that she gives her players is
to remember that dedication, determination and the
desire to be the best that they can be will help to
make them successful in basketball and in life.
She is a member of the Hartsville First
Church of the Nazarene and has been going there for at
least thirty years. She is a Board Member and attends
regularly. I joke with her and tell her when the doors are
open, I can always find her at church.
My mom and I are best friends and we tell each
other everything. I can’t imagine my life without her. My
daughter, Rylee, had to have surgery at Duke, and Mom
was with me through it all. When Rylee has to have the
next surgery, she’ll be with us again.
At the end of the day, the most important thing
to my mom is serving the Lord and being there for her
family at all times.
Patricia Ann Hewitt is a remarkable woman!
 82-83 10/28/09 10:31 AM Page 2
HEWITT

photo by Liz Odom

84 10/27/09 4:10 PM Page 1
“...this energetic
eighty-something-
year-old is still a
go-getter.”
A Remarkable Woman
Jerrolyn Ward was born fifteen minutes after
her twin sister. She hasn’t missed out on much since, though.
Known as “Jerry” to her friends, this energetic eighty-something-year-old is
still a go-getter.
After growing up in Effingham and graduating from J. C. Lynch High
School, Jerry continued her education at the Florence Business School, later
known as the Carolina College of Commerce. After graduating, she went
to work for the Wilcox Law Firm. After working there for a couple of
years, she moved on to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, where “it was
nice working with good looking troopers!” she says.
Like most young people, Jerry wanted to spread her wings. That
experience led her to Charleston where she got a job with the power com-
pany. Once again, a good looking man in uniform caught her eye and she
married a Navy man, Jim Whitehead. As a Navy wife, she lived in Key West,
Florida, and in Norfolk,Virginia. In both places, she was involved with the
American Red Cross. She sometimes worked as paid staff and sometimes as
a volunteer. She says today that the Red Cross experiences were the best
jobs in the world.
In Key West, she was in charge of Red Cross operations at the Naval
Hospital and was instrumental in helping wounded soldiers returning from
combat. Also, while in Key West, she worked with the Police Department
in the Detective Division and later for the City Manager and Mayor of that
city. No matter where Jerry was employed, however, she was always
involved with the Red Cross.
Ferebe Gasque is honored to be the Music Therapist at McLeod Hospice House, enjoys selling Pampered Chef Kitchen tools, and loves writing for She Magazine.
WHITEHEAD
jerry
by Ferebe Gasque
After she and her handsome man in uniform
divorced, Jerry and their daughter moved back home to the
Florence area. Vicki wanted to be in a Brownie troop, but
there was not one to be found with an opening for a cute
little girl from Florida. So, being the devoted mother she
continues to be today, Jerry Whitehead started a new one.
Brownie Troop 101 was formed and fifteen girls gathered every Saturday
morning. According to Jerry, that troop sold the most Girl Scout cookies
of any in the area.
Still involved as a volunteer with the American Red Cross, the now
single mom worked for twenty four years for Ed Young at Oakdale Country
Club. She says she did just about everything there. Judging from her life
history, she probably could have!
Today, she is retired and still energetic. She mentioned more than
once that she is really a party girl at heart. She wouldn’t give any details but
had a twinkle in her eye at each comment in that regard.
The loves of her life, however, are her family. Her daughter, Vicki
Bazen, is married to Kenny, lives in Florence, and works at Pee Dee
Cardiology Associates. Vicki and her husband have two daughters, Ashly
Bazen and Kimberly Bazen-Caples. Kimberly and her husband, Ryan, have
one son. Little Dean is Jerry’s great-grandson. She’s adjusting well to a lit-
tle boy in the family after all the years of just little girls.
Over and over again, Jerry praised her daughter. She said with pride
in her voice and a tear in her eye,“Vicki is and always has been my number
one person in the whole world. She is my devoted daughter.” So, it seems
we have not one “Shero” here, but two.
85 10/23/09 1:55 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 85

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86-87 10/28/09 10:03 AM Page 1
The Entrepreneur
“I know that I’m a wife, a mother and
a business owner. All the other stuff
just falls in line.”
Wanda James grew up in a small town on the
Gulf Coast – Moss Point, Mississippi. Her elementary education began
at St. Peter’s Catholic School, which was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina
in 2005. She attended Our Lady of Victories High School and furthered
her education at Southern University at Baton Rouge, Louisiana (where
she met the love of her life), and received a B.S. Degree in Accounting.
Afterwards, she attended William Carey College in Hattiesburg, Mississippi,
where she received her MBA with a Field Emphasis in Marketing.
Then, the love story began.
McDonald’s has always had a special place in Wanda’s life
because that’s where her husband,Arnett James, proposed to her. In the
parking lot at a McDonald’s, after a romantic dinner of hot, fresh French
fries with an ice cream cone on the side, a state of shock ran through
her. She thought,“Gosh, I’ve never been married before. Just what do I
say?” Of course, the answer was a resounding, “Yes!”
After Wanda and Arnett married and started their business
careers, they decided on researching all the food franchises out there.
They decided that McDonald’s would be the right one for them. The
reputation of the company was very sound, and leadership of the com-
pany was very positive.
In 1990, they started training, had their first child and they both
worked full-time jobs. Together, they worked around the clock. In order
for both of them to understand the day-to-day operations of the busi-
ness, they had to work all shifts – open, lunch and close. They had to
have the commitment, and they had to balance their priorities and
demands. To accomplish their goals, they had to stay focused. There
would be times when Wanda was coming and Arnett would be going –
or vice versa. Nonetheless, they stayed the course because they want-
ed to be successful business owners, and they wanted be a part of one
of the world’s leading franchises.
In August 1995, Wanda and Arnett took over the McDonald’s
located in Marion, SC, working around the clock, day in and day out.
Their first child grew up in McDonald’s until Wanda found one of the
best babysitters in the world who would come and sit with their child
while they worked long hours.
Three years later, Wanda and Arnett acquired their second
McDonald’s located in Florence. This new restaurant separated them
because one had to drive to Florence to work and make sure that their
team was giving 100% total customer satisfaction. Wanda stayed in
Marion to make sure that the team there did the same.
Wanda says, “When you experience the magical moment of
being an Owner/Operator of one of the world’s best fast-food franchis-
es, you immediately get ‘ketchup’ in your veins and that spirit of waiting
on customers becomes electrifying.” With that being said, they acquired
their third McDonald’s in 2000 in Dillon, SC; and in 2001, their fourth
McDonald’s in another location in Florence. In 2006, they wanted to test
their knowledge in construction, so they built their first McDonald’s, which
is located in Florence on Celebration Boulevard and South Cashua.
Every day was a travel day for both of them because they had
DUBOSE JAMES
wanda
to visit all the restaurants on a daily basis. Since they
lived in Marion, they would travel from Marion to
Dillon and from Dillon to Florence and back to
Marion. Interstate 95 was a daily travel route. After
having a family discussion on the traveling they did
daily and the fact that the majority of the restaurants
were in Florence, they decided to relocate to
Florence. Although they had three restaurants in
Florence, that move didn’t really solve their travel
time. After six years of the extensive travel, in
February of this year, they decided they would sell the
Marion and Dillon locations, giving them the opportu-
nity of buying another location in Florence
(McDonald’s at Five Points). Then, they had four
restaurants to continue to own and operate.
Why McDonald’s? After researching all the
leading competitors of McDonald’s,Wanda and Arnett
can put it plain and simple: “McDonald’s is a solid
financial model.”
While they earn just pennies on each prod-
uct they sell, they sell a lot of products. Their business thrives on a reli-
able, growing stream of customer traffic. Their customer growth is the
foundation of restaurant profitability. Providing compelling products at
an affordable price in a clean, comfortable and friendly environment is
what McDonald’s (and the James) is all about. It’s what McDonald’s has
been about for 54 years, and it’s what draws customers to the restau-
rants.
Wanda is a businesswoman, but she also thinks of herself as a
light of hope, an illumination that reflects people’s lives and dreams. She
hopes that she empowers lives and builds confidence in others so that
they may live better and have better lives. She isn’t just selling burgers
and fries; she and Arnett are Owners/Operators, and they are actively
involved in their business on a daily basis.
As she visits with local schools and churches throughout the
community, Wanda stresses that self-discipline starts in the home. “In
order for you to be successful, you must stay focused. It’s about making
good choices,” she proclaims.
In order for Wanda to incorporate raising a family with a
career, she has to prioritize the most important things that she can
accomplish in a day. Her day starts at 5:00 A.M. with her daily exercise
for an hour. That’s what she calls her “me time.” Then, she gets her son,
Alex, ready for school. When she takes him to school, that’s her time to
bond with him or have discussions or maybe review for a test.
If you are as busy as Wanda, you really don’t have time to think
about what has to be done. You just do it. She knows that Rome was-
n’t built in a day; some things have to wait. Wanda stresses,“I know that
I’m a wife, a mother and a business owner. All the other stuff just falls
in line. I’ve been blessed to have wonderful people in my life to help me
– my parents, my mother-in-law, my baby- sitter and our Director of
Operations, as well as our staff.” (continued...)
86-87 10/28/09 10:04 AM Page 2

The biggest challenge for Wanda,

however, has been taking on that “Mother Teresa” role, wanting
to help everybody and not wanting to say no when, deep-down
inside, she knows she should. Her biggest enjoyment comes
from the fact that McDonald’s has afforded them the opportuni-
ty to be a part of the “McFamily.” She meets different people on
a daily basis. She enjoys talking to school-age children, and see-
ing them outside of school is funny. She’s referred to as “the
McDonald’s Lady.”
Wanda’s advice to other women who dream of starting a
business is to research the type of business you want to own.
Once you’ve done that, talk to people who are in that type of
business. Find out what the day-to-day business and challenges
are like. Complete a Business Plan. Do a Market Study to see if
this type of business is welcome in your market. Find out who
your competitors are and what they are doing to drive the busi-
ness. Even as McDonald’s owners,Wanda and Arnett shop their
competitors to find out what they are doing to draw their cus-
tomer. Whether it’s products, cleanliness of the restaurant, a
friendly environment or friendly employees, there is always
room for improvement.
Finally,Wanda’s most important advice is, “Have faith in God
and allow Him to lead you and guide you.”
Summing it all up,Wanda says,“My future dreams are to contin-
ue to empower people and encourage people to live better lives. I
also want to keep encouraging our youth to be great leaders in their
communities and strive for the best. I hope that just by passing on
my smiles daily and sharing my gifted talents from God,Arnett and
I will pass on our passion for the business to our sons to continue
this empire that we have built as business partners.”

photo by
Wanda DuBose James and her husband, Arnett, have two sons,
Arnett D. James, IV, a Sophomore at South Carolina State in Orangeburg, SC,
and Alex D. James, a sixth grader at Florence Christian.
Ricky Ford
88 10/27/09 2:08 PM Page 1

YARBOROUGH KELLEY
burnadene
The Entrepreneur

“Anytime.
Anywhere.
We are always
dancing!”
Burnadene Yarborough Kelley is the Owner
of Kelley’s Fine Arts in Florence. In addition, she is the Director
of the KFA Dance Company, which is celebrating their 21st year
in business. Her love for dance was from day one of classes at the
age of six. By the second grade, she was quoted in her school
annual saying, “I want to be a dance teacher.”
Burnadene studied with local studios as much as possi-
ble. In fact, she gave up most school extracurricular activities by
the eleventh grade in order to take more dance classes. She then
attended Columbia College and graduated with a BA in Dance and
Elementary Education, which has really helped in developing her
own curriculum and progression for each dance form. She con-
tinues with conventions, classes and videos to stay knowledgeable
in the newest dance techniques.
You never know from year to year what can happen in
the dance business or what might come up that requires much
attention. Burnadene is determined to find the solution and
adjust.
The success (21 years) has not been accomplished alone;
it’s those precious dancers and the parents that have allowed
photo by Ricky Ford
Burnadene the opportunity to share with them something she
loves. She now teaches children of former students, and she
delights in getting to know and love them. She is most honored
that the parents entrust their children to her. Most of the KFA
staff were also KFA dancers or parents of KFA dancers, and they
understand the love and nurturing that Burnadene gave them and
that she expects to be passed along. This makes for a strong bond
and a wonderful support system. She calls it “growing your own
staff!” She loves all of them like family and, in turn, they love KFA
as their own.
In regards to accomplishments, Burnadene says, “There
are way too many awards to list; it would be not only impossible
but senseless.” She is always proud when her dance students win
a trophy or receive recognition, but the true success is when she
sees them feeling good about themselves through dance, not
from a trophy.
She’s read where so many people are trying to
define what dance is. “It’s simple; it’s an art form that
involves physical activity while using your brain. But, most of all, it
should be fun,” she asserts.

Burnadene’s Philosophy: “Dance your way through it! It’s not that I don’t understand the serious circumstance of life, it’s just that, for me,
I choose to dance my way through it. Dance while you can!”

Her Career Advice: “Find something that you love, and then find a way to make it your career. Don’t spend your life dreading to go to work.”

In Burnadene’s future, she sees . . . dance and dancers. And, oh yeah, diapers.

What She Participates In: “Any and everything! I have a tendency to say yes. I especially had a great time this year working with the Florence
Little Theatre doing choreography for Peter Pan, thanks to Dwight Lindley and Scarlett Knight.”

Burnadene’s Influences: “My parents never made me feel silly about dance as a career option. Twenty years after graduating with a BA in Dance,
they are still cheering me on.”

Kelley’s Fine Arts’ Motto: Anytime. Anywhere. We Are Always Dancing!

Burnadene Kelley and her high school sweetheart and husband of twenty years,William George Kelley, reside in Olanta with their
three daughters, Alexis (16), Rebecca (13) and Georgeanna (10). They are expecting daughter number four around Christmas.
89 10/26/09 3:14 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 89

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90 10/28/09 1:15 PM Page 1

KAMMER
A Remarkable Woman
by Cookie Cawthon

“my volunteer work is a

very small contribution
towards this end...”

judy
In the Jewish faith, there is a concept known as tikkun olam,
which literally means “repairing the world.” It is the way in which humans
partner with God in order to address and correct the many inequities that
exist within the world. Humans have two responsibilities within this part-
nership: the contemplative performance of religious acts and participation
in social acts of tzedakah (charitable giving) and gemilut hasadim (acts of
kindness). Judy Kammer’s decades of volunteering and civic leadership find
its roots in her faith; “my volunteer work is a very small contribution
towards this end,” she shares.
Judy Kammer was born in London and lived there until she was
eight years-old at which time she moved to the United States and became
a citizen at age eleven. She completed her undergraduate and graduate
studies at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and promptly began a
career dedicated to serving others. She was a high school English teacher,
a team leader for counselors at a women’s health clinic, a high school guid-
ance counselor, and now serves, as she has for the past fifteen years, as the
Medical Office Manager for Pee Dee Neurosurgical Services. Judy came
to Florence in 1980 with her husband, Dr. Kenneth S. Kammer, when
McLeod Regional Medical Center first added neurological surgery to its
menu of services.
Judy began giving her time when her children were young; she
volunteered in the activity center at McLeod Children’s Hospital, engaging
photo by Ricky Ford
patients in play therapy – including gardening and arts and crafts. Her role
in the activity center led to her involvement with the newly formed McLeod Judy has also served as the past Sunday School chair, board member, and
Foundation; she chaired the inaugural Children’s Miracle Network telethon in 1988. president of Beth Israel Congregation. She values being part of the only surviving
She has had the pleasure of watching this event explode over the years with support Jewish community in the Pee Dee area, and she desires to strengthen and grow her
from an army of dedicated volunteers and corporate sponsors – all cooperating to congregation, appreciating what a benefit working with the synagogue and the vari-
raise funds to provide much needed equipment to the Children’s Hospital. ous rabbis has been to her in raising her sons and learning more about her faith.
Over the years, Judy has volunteered with many community organizations Though Judy is often asked to collaborate and partner with different organ-
but insists that she has received much more in return than she has ever given. She izations, she prefers to commit to only a few at a time, allowing her to maximize her
is currently a board member for the McLeod Foundation; she chairs the Grants efforts without spreading herself too thinly. She wants to insure that there is time
Allocation Committee and serves on the Finance and Investment Committee and the to savor the grateful smiles from parents and children who have recovered from an
Executive Committee. Since its inception in 1985, the Foundation has raised $30 mil- illness due to their care at McLeod Children’s Hospital and to invest in younger vol-
lion towards improving health care in the area. Judy considers her association with unteers. She finds it so rewarding to observe and mentor others as they grow and
this organization to be a privilege and acknowledges it has had the greatest impact take on fulfilling challenges.
on her personal growth. Judy is also prudent about how she manages her time and commitments so
Judy is also currently a member of a new group with the Eastern Carolina that there is ample time to enjoy her family and her other pleasures:“gardening, read-
Community Foundation – Women in Philanthropy. This group seeks to enlighten and ing, kayaking and sailing in Charleston, walking our beautiful beaches and woods, see-
empower women with regards to philanthropic giving and to educate them about ing plays and symphony concerts, and a new love is watching The Metropolitan Opera
needs within their communities. She is also a member of The Coastal Conservation in high definition, shown in theaters in Columbia and Summerville.” She and her hus-
League and the Nature Conservancy of South Carolina; both groups work toward band have two grown, married sons. Dr. David Kammer is an emergency department
the preservation of natural resources. Judy attempts to promote preservation efforts resident in Charlotte and is married to Erika, a disability policy specialist. Jonathan
by educating government officials of environmental (and sometimes health) concerns. Kammer is a fifth-grade special needs support teacher at KIPP Charter School in
She is also a past member of the Florence 2010 Committee, which shaped Philadelphia and is married to Shannon, a pre-med student, math teacher, and mod-
the vision for the revitalization of Florence’s downtown, and she is currently part of ern dancer. While the Kammers somewhat patiently await the arrival of grandchil-
a committee working, in conjunction with the Downtown Development dren, Judy continues to pour her heart into service, knowing this truth from Margaret
Corporation, to bring chamber music to that area of the city. Judy and the other Mead – “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change
members are working diligently to promote the upcoming concert – the Aurora the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Musicalis Trio on November 22 at 4:00 (tickets may be purchased at Porter’s Gift
Shop and the Art Trail Gallery).

Cookie Cawthon is just plumb crazy in Flo-town these days – loving her life and her man – chasing her dream, her cheerleader, and her gymnast.
91 10/26/09 10:19 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 91

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92-93 10/28/09 8:31 PM Page 1
The Entrepreneur
“I am waiting on the Lord to
see what He has in store.”
The dream of owning her own business first came to Cynthia as a young
girl who loved sewing clothes for her Barbie doll. She had a natural love for all
kinds of sewing, including embroidery, cross-stitch, etc. She even sewed all her
clothing as she got older and more experienced.
Cynthia’s mother taught her the basics of sewing. She learned even
more in Home Economics class under Mrs. Genevieve Weaver; she taught her the
importance of paying attention to the small details like ironing as you sew.
Cynthia also loved to read, so she purchased and read Simplicity How To Sew and
the Vogue Sewing Book and taught herself tailoring.
By the time she was in high school, she knew she wanted to own her
own dress shop. She made plans to attend Winthrop University and major in
Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Home Economics. Back then, you could
get a double major and study in Paris your senior year of college. Cynthia
thought she would have many career options with this line of study since she
could also be qualified to teach fashion or Home Economics or pursue the dream
of owning her own business and getting married and having children.
Cynthia’s dream was put on hold when she met the love of her life, her
husband,Terry Poston. They were engaged to be married by the time she finished
high school at age seventeen. Terry was a tobacco farmer and wanted a stay-at-
home wife. Cynthia agreed to marry him right out of high school at age eight-
een because she thought having a husband and family that loved her was more
important than a college education.
After one year at home, Cynthia still dreamed of owning her own busi-
ness – a dress shop. She decided to attend Florence-Darlington Technical College
and get the two-year Associate Degree in Fashion Merchandising/Marketing. It
was her only option in the Pee Dee area at the time since she wanted to com-
mute from home, work on the farm and work three part-time jobs to pay for
tuition, books, gas and other necessities.
Cynthia graduated in 1980 – with honors. During her time at FDTC,
she was exposed to a book by Stanley Marcus, Minding the Store, about the
famous Neiman Marcus stores. Now, even more than before, Cynthia wanted to
own a fine apparel store with great customer service like she read about.
Her husband had patiently waited for her to graduate but was anxious
to start their family. Soon, they had a beautiful baby boy,Travis, the following year
on October 14, 1981, four years after their marriage.
Nonetheless, Cynthia still dreamed of owning her own store; therefore,
the idea of CYNTHIA BY APPOINTMENT came about so that she could still be
at home with her, then, three-year-old old son and work part-time. At age 24,
the dream began with a $500 loan from her local bank, a market trip to the
Charlotte Merchandise Mart and a desire to work part-time and raise her son.
CYNTHIA BY APPOINTMENT-personalized fashion showings in the conven-
ience of your home or office was established.
Word-of-mouth advertising was tremendous! While Cynthia was at an
appointment, the client would call a friend or relative while she was still there
and set up her next appointment. The client would tell her friends, “You’ve just
got to see the beautiful things Cynthia has, and she will accessorize and coordi-
nate your wardrobe at the same time!”
Unknowingly, Cynthia gathered lots of valuable information at these
appointments. She worked with her clients’ clothing and shoes. She learned their
likes and dislikes and their lifestyle from their work and home, which was invalu-
able to Cynthia as the business grew. With this insight, she was able to carry jew-
elry and accessories, in addition to clothing. Cynthia was a personal shopper for
her newfound clientele.
Within two years, the business had outgrown its original space.
Cynthia’s kitchen was her office with the dining room full of clothing and acces-
POSTON
cynthia
sories. Her husband said,“It’s time to go!”
Suppertime was just not the same, as cus-
tomers called in for an appointment. So,
she rented a space in her hometown of
Johnsonville to house the inventory and to
be near home and school for her family’s benefit.
In 1986, CYNTHIA BY APPOINTMENT-person-
alized fashion showings in the convenience of your
home or office moved to a shop on Main Street in
Johnsonville, SC.
Two beautiful ladies, Winnie Cox and Dean
Richardson, were working for her, and they worked
together for almost seventeen years. Although Dean
retired and Winnie passed away as a result of lung
cancer, in the beginning, they were instrumental in
implementing the business standards that are still in
place today with their fine Christian character.
Cynthia, a young business owner at age 24, and Dean
and Winnie’s mature, guiding force helped to make
the venture a success.
Again, it soon became apparent that a more
convenient location for her clients was necessary. In
1998, after much prayer and seeking the Lord’s will, a
prime real estate location was offered in the busy
Five Points area of Florence in the SHOPS OF 7
OAKS. CYNTHIA-ladies fine apparel and accessories
is presently located here at 1935 Hoffmeyer Road. The Lord blessed her with a
beautiful new store.
The decision to open CYNTHIA SHOES came naturally. Over the years
as a personal shopper (fashion stylist), she had recommended shoes from local
merchants to her clients. In May 2008, she realized that the best shoe stores had
closed, and the market was wide open for a fine shoe store. Cynthia proposed
the idea to her husband, who wholeheartedly said, “Let’s do it! That is a great
idea!”
She was so encouraged by his response because after twenty-five years
in the clothing business, she knew her husband believed in her to do this.
Therefore, CYNTHIA-ladies fine shoes and accessories came to be and is now
celebrating its first year in business. It is a natural complement to the clothing
store.
From the many years of operating the clothing store that helped with
the opening of the shoe store, Cynthia has relied on Proverbs 22:1,“A good name
is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and
gold.” She lives by the following beliefs: Faithfulness, God is faithful and He hears
and answers prayer; Reputation, the clothing store name gave the shoe store a
solid name; Consistency in advertising. You have to keep the business name in
front of the public so when they are ready to buy (shop), they remember to shop
at CYNTHIA.
Cynthia’s recipe for success and how she remains successful comes from
her trust in the following two Scriptures: Psalms 127:1,2,“Except the Lord build the
house, they labour in vain that build it; except the Lord keep the city, the watchman
waketh but in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread
of sorrows for so he giveth his beloved sheep,” and Psalm 128:1,2: “Blessed is every-
one that feareth the Lord, that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of
thine hands, happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.” (continued...)
 92-93 10/28/09 4:55 PM Page 2
OS O

n
The toughest part of owning her own business has
been balancing career and family. That really hit hard when Cynthia’s only son,
Travis, was killed in a tragic automobile accident in 2001. The reason for start-
ing the business was to allow time with Travis. Now, the dream took on a differ-
ent meaning. Through the painful grieving process, the Lord opened many oppor-
tunities to minister and witness at work for Cynthia. II Corinthians 12, verses 9
and 10 give her strength: “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee;
for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly, therefore will I rather
glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore, I
take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in dis-
tresses for Christ’s sake, for when I am weak, then am I strong.”
The most enjoyable part of owning her own business has been seeing
the smile on a client’s face when she looks in the mirror with the perfect outfit
on. Cynthia enjoys the challenge of matching the right outfit to the personality
and lifestyle that is flattering in color and silhouette for her clients. She’s happy
when a client knows she looks and feels her best! For Cynthia, achieving good
customer service is definitely the most enjoyable part of owning a business.
In regards to the future of CYNTHIA, she says, “I am waiting on the
Lord to see what He has in store. I rely on Isaiah 40:31,‘But they that wait upon
the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles,
they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.’”
Cynthia welcomed her fiftieth birthday this year and celebrates
25 years of fashion. CYNTHIA-ladies fine apparel and accessories was voted
“Best of the Pee Dee” – Best Women’s Boutique 2009. Cynthia sums it all up,“I
thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for all things. God has blessed me and I

Collin M. Smith Photography

thank Him. God is faithful.”
This remarkable woman’s dreams have finally come true.
94 10/28/09 10:28 AM Page 1
The Young Entrepreneur
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business, then you’re like
me. If you’ve not only dreamed of it but accomplished it by the time you were
sixteen, then you’re like Mills Brown.
Mills is the Owner and Creative Brain behind MillsBrownInk. What
has grown into a successful business began as a love of art. According to her
mother, Missy, Mills has always been very creative, making jewelry and taking art
lessons in her spare time. She would often doodle at school, using vibrant col-
ors and would fill in her designs with a variety of themes. When you look
closely, occasionally you’ll find a friend’s name or initials in the design. Though
she had always done artwork for family and friends, her artwork was beginning
to evolve into a style that is instantly recognizable. Missy was quick to note
that Mills’ drawings are all freehand. “Many companies are using Photoshop to
do similar things. This is all hand-drawn.”
A love of doodling became a business idea rapidly. A friend of Mills’,
Micaela Billingslee, asked Mills to draw a peace sign. When Micaela’s dad, who
owns Radicals, saw the design, he asked permission to show Mills’ designs to
his T-shirt manufacturer. Robert Wactor, with Wactor and Associates in
Orangeburg, loved what he saw and met with Mills and her parents to discuss
turning her designs into T-shirts and stickers. After papers were signed, they
moved on to coming up with more designs.
Missy came up with the idea of matching a verb with each image. The
pink flamingo was the first along with the word “flirt.” Eleven more drawings
followed, including a few just for the guys. All the designs are hand-drawn by
Mills, and the ideas for the designs are a collaborative effort between her and
Robert.
Nature is the very obvious theme in all of her artwork. Robert knew
that branding was the very important next step. He strongly encouraged Mills
to develop a logo, and after much prodding from her friends and family, she
came up with one she really likes. The MillsBrownInk logo appears on the
front of every T-shirt and can be found on stickers, as well.
Once the shirts were printed, the salesmen from Wactor and
Associates delivered them to nineteen cities in South Carolina, many of those
in tourist areas along the coast. The shirts were an instant hit. While her fam-
Emmie Lynch was born and raised in the Pee Dee. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and lives in Florence.
Her favorite things are writing, the outdoors and spending time with her family.
BROWN
mills
photo by Ricky Ford
by Emmie Lynch
ily was vacationing at the beach, they saw a few people sporting the
shirts.
Now, Mills is more motivated than ever to keep the business
going. She still loves the design side of her business but has gotten
very involved in marketing and enjoys that, too. The website and
Facebook fan page were her ideas, and she really enjoys updating the
page and seeing new fans. When it comes to marketing, Mills refers
to the fan page as the “fun part of it.”
This seems to be just the beginning of a good thing. Mills
plans to attend college but hopes to continue growing her business at
the same time. Concerning working on the business during college, she said,
“If it’s still going strong, then I’ll probably do a few (designs) every six months.”
There are some vendors who have already contacted her about using
her designs on a wide variety of giftware, including koozies, cups and napkins.
One vendor has also asked her about turning her images into prints.
She continues to come up with new designs and has six new designs for the
spring. I had a chance to get a sneak preview, and the designs are just as intrigu-
ing and original as all of her previous work. There is a possibility she’ll get into
licensing to satisfy the appetites of the Clemson and Carolina fans, but that’s
just a thought right now.
Mills is forward-thinking and does have some thoughts on the future
of her business. She wants to expand as much as possible and really focus on
building the brand. Thoughts of opening her own store have even crossed her
mind.
For anyone interested in getting a closer look at her products, you can
check out the website at www.millsbrownink.com, or you can go to Radicals
or Salty’s if you’re in the Florence area. The website also has a listing of stores
across the state where her shirts and stickers can be found.
On November 2nd, Mills will be at Simpson Hardware in Sumter from
7 to 10 PM for Ladies’ Night Out and will be more than happy to sign your T-
shirt. Her shirts have been known to sell out quickly, so a word of advice –
Get there early!
95 10/26/09 4:40 PM Page 1
Chesterfield... “
Indulge yourself this Christmas season, and allow
The Southern Belle to provide a relaxed atmosphere
of grandeur for your holiday get-together. Whether
you have a small or large party, owners Travis and
Amanda Gunter invite you to join them for a delight-
ful dining experience where you will enjoy an incredi-
ble selection of entrees, salads, desserts, and more.
108 Main Street, Chesterfield • 623-3491
Hours: Tues-Fri & Sun 11 am-2 pm & Wed-Sat
5:30-10 pm • Bar open until midnight
152 Main Street • Historic Downtown Chesterfield
Visit www.kevinlearonmain.com
It’s More Than A Store...
It’s An Experience!
122 Main St., Chesterfield, (843) 623-3938
Open: M-F 10-5:30, Sat. 10-2
She Magazine • November 2009 • 95
THE HEART OF THE CAROLINAS”
Your Destination for Christmas
843.623.3770
“An Upscale Thrift Store
With Bargain Prices”
Thousands of Clothing Items
for Only $2 Each!
25% OFF SELECT HOUSE & GARDEN FLAGS
25% OFF SELECT JEWELRY
25% OFF SHORT SLEEVE LADIES/MEN’S TOPS/SHIRTS
& OTHER SAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE STORE!
CHECK OUT OUR UNBELIEVABLE PRICES ON NEW ITEMS: House & Garden Flags
Mailbox Covers • Clemson & USC Items • Jewelry •Handbags • & Much, More!
Directions From Florence: take US Hwy. 52 N ALSO VISIT THE SUNSHINE GIFT SHOPPE
to Cheraw, in Cheraw take SC Hwy. 9 N to
160 Second St. (beside River’s Edge Restaurant)
Chesterfield, in Chesterfield bear right onto E.
Cheraw, (843) 537-2008
Main St. (Chesterfield Business), store is on
Open: M-F 10-5 (Wed. 10-1)
right between traffic signals beside Town Hall.
96 10/28/09 3:06 PM Page 1
rebecca
SMITH
“When we serve others with special needs and use our God-given
talents to help, I can guarantee joy and blessings beyond belief.”
Jody Jackson first met Rebecca Smith
when she moved to Florence and attended senior
activities at Shepherd’s Center of the Pee Dee and
joined the Pee Dee Chapter of AARP. Rebecca was the
Inspirational Chairperson and provided short messages
at the beginning of monthly meetings. Jody says that
Rebecca’s topics were always interesting; they had a
message without being pushy. In nominating Rebecca
for the REMARKABLE WOMEN issue, Jody proclaims,
“She inspires me to live up to what she believes I can
do.” After learning Rebecca’s story, we were inspired to
share it with you.
Rebecca is the Volunteer Chairman of the
Florence Chapter of Shepherd’s Center of the Pee Dee.
Shepherd’s Center is a faith-based, non-denominational
organization for persons fifty and older, associated with
Shepherd’s Center of America. The group is one of thir-
teen Centers in South Carolina. They meet ten consec-
utive Thursdays during the winter, spring and fall.
Sessions consist of Adventures in Learning, Bible Study,
Arts and Crafts, community projects, cards and hand-
work. In addition, the Center sponsors a monthly Book
Club and trips. Reverend Tom Pietila introduced this
organization to the Florence community. It has been in
existence for five years and continues to grow. The
membership is almost one hundred members from
Florence and several towns in the Pee Dee. Members
represent some twenty to twenty-five churches in the
community and offer the opportunity to meet people
they perhaps would have not known otherwise. That’s
why this organization is very important to Rebecca.
A Remarkable Woman
Besides being an integral part of Shepherd’s
Center, Rebecca is so much more in the community.
She is a member of Central United Methodist Church
where she presently teaches an adult Sunday school
class on a regular basis and serves as a Circle Leader. In
addition, she chairs the Pee Dee Group of the Make-A-
Wish Foundation of South Carolina, an organization to
serve children and young people with life-threatening ill-
nesses from ages two and a half until they reach their
eighteenth birthday. She helps interview children and
families who are recommended by physicians, social
workers or their parents. Approximately twelve to fif-
teen wishes are granted in this area annually.
AARP and The Florence League of Women
Voters are organizations she joined to keep her aware of
local and national issues that are important to older
adults. Two educational groups that she works with are
Delta Kappa Gamma and Kappa Kappa Iota. Having
been an educator for thirty-eight years, serving as an
Elementary Teacher, the first Elementary Guidance
Counselor in Florence and then as an Elementary
Principal for fifteen years, these organizations give her
current information about educational issues and fellow-
ship with both active and retired educators. She is also
a member of The Daughters of the American Revolution
(DAR), which helps her to know the history of our
country and current happenings related to our country.
One of Rebecca’s basic beliefs is that we are to
share all that we have with others – our time, talents and
resources. The organizations described above give her
photo by Liz Odom
the opportunity to do this. In addition, Rebecca really
enjoys people and opportunities to organize and develop
groups that help all people. Every time she is able to
serve others, she feels that she is the one blessed. She
says, “It is difficult to describe the joy I feel when I am
able to help anyone – children or older adults.”
Seeing and helping a child or young person with
a life-threatening illness and being able to grant some-
thing that they want truly touches her heart. However,
as an older adult, she knows that people, as a group, have
some very special needs. Organizations such as
Shepherd’s Center bring people together with the pur-
pose of keeping them involved and active. She likes peo-
ple and the challenge of helping develop an organization
to promote continued learning activities, to promote
good use of time and providing fellowship, Bible Study
and opportunities to support various charities and proj-
ects in her community.
Rebecca sums up her love of being involved and
helping people: “I learned a long time ago that involving
others will make a group stronger and helps us feel that
this is our organization. We have grown because mem-
bers tell friends and they come to enjoy the fun! If you
walk into one of the sessions at Shepherd’s Center, you
would see smiles on the faces of those in attendance, and
you would see people helping others and hear lots of
chatter. The trips we take are also fun and the group
enjoys each other in this different activity. When we serve
others with special needs and use our God-given talents
to help, I can guarantee joy and blessings beyond belief.”
97 10/26/09 3:09 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 97

PH: (843)665.2526
Pass it on & receive 10% off this month! FAX : (843)676.0990
2015-J WEST EVANS ST. • Florence SC 29501

Spiritual Transformation Book Club

This BOOK CLUB is for men and women who want to discover
their essence, their reason for being, the inner light, the divine, which is the
Learn how to “peel off
allness, the oneness and the wholeness. We will peel the layers of unexam- the layers” that bind
ined perceptions and beliefs that bind and inhibit us.
The club’s facilitator is Ada Nwankudu. About the last week Pop Jun
ula k TV
of August, 2006, she was sitting in her living room watching TV with her Con r Cult Ego er
form ure Ang iety
young kids when she suddenly jolted from the couch. Family members in Add ity
ictio Anx
the room began asking, “What’s wrong, what’s wrong?” She answered Rac s n Lies e
e dic
them by saying, “ A voice is telling me to find a way to help people seek
Hatre Preju
Him and find Him.” So many people are depressed, angry, hopeless, d False
Sexism
addicted, and unfulfilled They continue to seek answers in the wrong places Violence
Dependency Techno-Rule
and become even more empty and disillusioned. The Lord spoke to her say-
ing, “I created them. I know why I created them. The answer they are
seeking lies with me.”
Answering this perplex calling has given birth to the Spiritual
Transformation Book Club. A product of three years of intense spiritual Interested?
inquiry and subsequent awakening and transformation. Send your name,
e-mail address,
You are encouraged to, momentarily, set aside some of your & phone number to:
current beliefs, apprehensions, and perceptions for the Ada Nwankudu
1160 Berkeley Ave.
possibility that there may be something you do not know, the
Florence SC, 29505
knowing of which could change everything. Or email:
Ada holds four college degrees. She is a
Spiritualist and a full-time Nurse Practitioner. ANwankudu@yahoo.com
98 10/28/09 1:30 PM Page 1
A Remarkable Woman
“she managed
to not only
pull through,
but do it with
a welcoming
smile the size
of the sun...”
by Heather Frick
(Pictured with the loves of her life,
grandchildren Cade and Ragen.)
“There are very few people who have the
strength of my mother,” says Lisa Castles, the proud daughter
of Sandra McCutcheon.
Having three separate women write She Magazine
about one particular woman, Sandra, we couldn’t be more
delighted with the opportunity to meet such a remarkable
woman. A woman more “selfless, humble yet heroic,
energetic, radiant, optimistic and enduring” as Sandra was
described by her sons, Wes and Ben McCutcheon, would
overwhelm our search for the most remarkable woman.
From the outside looking in, life’s obstacles
appear only as small hills untraceable by any technologies
such as Google Earth when placed in the pathway of
Sandra. Through years of caring for her husband, Benjamin,
she managed to not only pull through, but do it with a wel-
coming smile the size of the sun glowing through her day.
Benjamin has had Parkinson’s disease for nearly 26 years.
Recently, he has had some complications, but Sandra refus-
es to let this get them down.
She begins her day caring for her husband at 6
A.M. Because of her many daily chores and her caring
assistance to anyone who needs her, Sandra’s day never
finds end before 10 P.M. Before her days became so long
with the caring of Benjamin, she took on the task of caring
for her very own mother who suffered from Alzheimer’s.
Sandra was devoted to having her mother comfortable
when the disease she had was so very uncomfortable.
As if the burdens that Sandra would refer to as
blessings weren’t enough, she also took care of her brother
who had Lou Gehrig’s disease. He remarkably lived fifteen
Heather Frick lives in Florence and works for She Magazine as Editorial Assistant (among many other things).
years with the disease; but, during the formation of this arti-
cle, Sandra had to face the loss of her heroic brother, Will.
Despite her hectic schedule and full-time job,
Sandra still manages to spend time with her family and
friends, rarely missing a grandchild’s event, friends in need
of a shoulder or her very large extended family at Lake
City First Baptist Church.
Sandra and Abbie Denny met nearly twenty-three
years ago when they taught Kindergarten together at
church. They had both recently lost their fathers; the loss-
es were extremely difficult. But, with each other to lean
on, it helped heal the open wounds. Abbie learned quick-
ly that she would continue to need the support of her dear
friend, Sandra, because she lost her sister to breast cancer
and then found out that she, herself, had colon cancer.
“Sandra never left my side. She called me every day to
make sure I had something to eat and would often stop by
just to keep me company,” Abbie says of her very best
friend. Best friend doesn’t adequately describe the rela-
tionship between Abbie and Sandra. In fact, Abbie says
Sandra feels more like a sister and was moved to tears
while trying to put words to how much she loves and
appreciates Sandra.
Sandra later met Joyce Lamb while they were
both employees at Dr. Lyn Denny’s. Joyce knew that she
loved Sandra for her kind words, smiling face and genuine
personality. She began noticing how truly genuine she was
to patients and how she would go out of her way to help
everyone, not only at work but with whomever she came
in contact with. Joyce remembers very well as she was fac-
MCCUTCHEON
sandra
ing a trial of her own, “Sandra offered a piece
of encouraging Scripture, Psalm 39.”
Joyce goes on to say,“If you mention
Sandra’s name to anyone in Lake City, there is
only praise and admiration for her because of
her compassion and love to all people.”
Sandra would humbly say that she
doesn’t deserve the recognition her daughter
and very best friends,Abbie and Joyce, are giv-
ing her. She would deny all allegations of being
such a thing as a “Shero.” However, her
daughter, Lisa, proclaims, “All who know her
realize immediately that she is definitely a
Shero.”
When I first met Sandra, I couldn’t help to be
taken in by her natural beauty. It made me wonder,“Could
a woman this beautiful on the outside really be that truly
beautiful on the inside?” It only took me minutes to
answer my own question, “Yes!”
She was lovely. From the small conversations we
had, I was immediately overwhelmed by her selflessness.
She wouldn’t take the picture for She by herself, believing
as though she didn’t deserve all the credit her loved ones
were pouring her way.
Remarkable is an understatement for a woman of
Sandra’s magnitude. If we could all be a little more like her,
it seems like the world would be such a nicer place.
Thanks to her silent yet powerful strength, we are able to
learn that when times are tough, we can look to the Lord
and our friends to help make our way through.
99 10/27/09 5:20 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 99

A Southern Christmas in
UNLIMITED
V A R I E T Y OF
CHRISTMAS
Williamsburg County
L AWN
C UT - O U T S
IF IT’S WOOD,
WE DO IT!
AVAILABLE
Kingstree Holiday Open House
S ERVING T HE P EE D EE F OR 30 Y EARS
Sunday, November 22nd
3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

& CHAIR CANING SERVICE!

Beth’s House of Flowers
Handcrafted, makes it special!
Personalized, makes it even more Connie’s Bakery
special! A small deposit will hold
your order for Christmas!
WE CAN FIX YOUR WOBBLY CHAIRS!
Francis Calhoun
CUSTOM FURNITURE Holt’s Jewelry and China
TOY BOXES TOO! ALSO DESIGN & REPAIR
• CYPRESS CHAIRS, SWINGS
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• CEDAR DOG HOUSES
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Susan’s Floral and Gifts
The Cabbage Patch
LARGE CAROLINA & Come stroll the streets of our hometown and remember simpler times.
CLEMSON OUTDOOR
DISPLAYS Enjoy tasty treats at each of the local merchants - Register for door prizes -
Maybe catch a glimpse of Santa as he wanders around town!
Florence (843)665-7474 • jweaver2@sc.rr.com
8am-10pm • 7 Days a Week For more information please contact Williamsburg Hometown chamber:
Visit us at... W W W . W E A V E R W O O D W O R K I N G . C O M 843-355-6431

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100 10/28/09 10:01 AM Page 1

Be in She
JANUARY 2010
junk food,
smoking,
sedentary
lifestyle, sugar,
stress... WHAT BAD HABIT HAVE YOU KICKED?

What have you done

to get healthier this year?

If you have made positive

life-style changes that have
Be an inspiration to our
readers in our Annual
led to a healthier, happier you,
Health and Fitness Issue She wants to hear
Coming in January.
all about it!

If you would like your story to be

considered, send an email to
editor@shemagazine.com, along with
a day and evening phone number.

DEADLINE FOR CONSIDERATION

IS NOVEMBER 22
101 10/28/09 11:34 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 101

Join us for our

Trollbeads Trunk Show
Saturday • November 21st • 11am - 5pm
• Buy 4 Glass Beads and Get the 5th FREE!
• Receive a FREE Chain Bracelet with the Purchase of an Upgraded Clasp!
• Receive $25 Off a Fantasy Pendant with the Purchase of a Fantasy Necklace!

Gift Certificate
Give-Aways
Throughout
the Day!

249 W. Main St. Suite 2,

Lake City, SC
843.374.3054
102 10/28/09 3:31 PM Page 1

.Shopping List for Souffled Pumpkin Pancake :

5 Tablespoons of butter 4 Eggs, separated

1 Tablespoon of brown sugar
1/4 Cup of pecan halves
2/3 Cup of all-purpose flour
1 Teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice
1/3 Cup of sugar
1/4 Teaspoon of salt
2/3 Cup of buttermilk
1 1/4 Teaspoons of vanilla extract
1 Cup of pumpkin puree
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Maple syrup, for serving

Directions for Souffled Pumpkin Pancake :

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium-low heat
3. Add the brown sugar and stir until the sugar begins to melt
4. Add the pecans and cook for 2 more minutes
5.Transfer the pecan mixture to a small dish and set aside
6. Reserve the skillet for the pancake
7. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, sugar and
salt and set aside
8. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter
9. In a large bowl, add egg yolks, buttermilk, vanilla and melted butter and
whisk until blended.
10. Gradually whisk in flour mixture
From the Kitchen of 11. Stir in the pumpkin puree

ANN CAUGHMAN 12. Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form and gently fold into the
pumpkin mixture
13. Gently spoon the batter into the reserved skillet
14. Sprinkle the top of the pancake mixture with the reserved

fÉâyyÄxw câÅÑ~|Ç pecan mixture

15. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until golden brown

ctÇvt~x 16. Dust the pancake with confectioners’ sugar

17. Cut into wedges and serve with maple syrup

Ann Caughman and her husband, Denley, are Innkeepers at The Grove in Marion
103 10/22/09 3:50 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 103

We have a Great Selection of

Wedding Gowns on SALE!

Get a head start on

Christmas Shopping
SAVE 25% or more
on Women’s &
Children’s Wear.

Casablanca

TUX Cape Fear

Thomas & Sons
RENTALS Jim Formal Wear

First Charter Company

Spring Weddings & Proms
Book by January 2010
843.774.6761
Main St. • Marion, SC
Cape Fear
843.423.1212
221 E. Main Street • Dillon
www.youngworldbridal.com

305 N. Main St. • Marion

843.423.2682
Mon-Fri 7:30am-6:00pm
Sat 8:00am-1:00pm

Pace’s Pharmacy of Nichols

116 S. Main St. • Nichols
843.526.2171
Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:00pm
Sat 8:30am-1:00pm
104 10/23/09 2:36 PM Page 1

Counting Blessings
“Granny always had something cooking, whether it was a holiday or not,
so her house always smelled like comfort and joy.”

by Anna K. Pitts
Bath and Body Works has their holiday scents out now. Of course, they have
for awhile since stores are pressing to begin the holidays earlier and earlier each year.
Somehow this year they at least managed to wait until after July fourth before clear-
ing aisles and moving merchandise to make room for the trees and tinsel. I do wish
they would bide their time a bit better; allow us to fully enjoy one holiday before mov-
ing onto another. But Bath and body Works is a bit different than regular holiday décor
and beautiful scents and fragrances are quite a necessary part of ushering in my holi-
day spirits.
Mama used to make the house smell so good during the holidays by taking
old fruit that she had frozen and sticking them into a steaming tea kettle on the stove
with cinnamon sticks and cloves. I never knew a bad orange could smell so good! And
Granny always had something cooking, whether it was a holiday or not, so her house
always smelled like comfort and joy. My aunt was one to have a fresh pot of coffee
going each time she entered the kitchen and I knew that she felt so comforted by that
warm, rich smell, holding the cup as she drank it. In Camden there is always a pie wait-
ing for the most opportune moment to slice and Russian Tea if I make mention of it
before I visit my grandparents there.
This month I had access to coupons and gifts of Bath and Body Works goodies for
my birthday. So I went with some friends and purchased sets of Wallflowers and can-
dles in Fresh Balsam,
Pumpkin Patch, and
Leaves. I have every
intention of taking
ed while holding various choices in his lap. How thankful I am for his patient nature,
as I continuously pray for a look at the “big picture” in order to keep my strength
and sanity.
Laughing, though not so small or easily unnoticed when around many of
my friends, is another one I don’t know what I would do without major doses of,
daily. It makes me so happy to be able to name more than ten people who are close
to me that can produce a nice belly laugh on demand. I’m so glad my life includes
laughter regularly.And I am truly appreciative of the presence of these things in my
world. How comforting it is to look around and see all the small parts and pieces
that I wouldn’t want to live without.They make time so much sweeter.And the tem-
peratures seem to be bringing us weather that lends itself nicely to these aromas
flickering through my room now. I am so enjoying this cozy time. I am so looking
forward to re-visiting these smells and sites and sounds day after day for the next
several months. I am so thankful to be aware of the rich details of a blessed life and
a grateful holiday spirit.

them to Brandon’s and plugging

them in while we put up his tree later
on and make out shopping lists for Christmas
and travel schedules for Thanksgiving visits. But tonight I needed some of
that subtle comfort a flickering flame and a cozy Fall smell can bring.
I am extremely thankful for this year. Blessings upon blessings have
been lavishly poured on me and my family and friends. I have witnessed others
suffer so immensely that I would be very ungrateful not to say it. Every year I
am amazed at its close what trials I have come through and what tragedies I
have avoided. But I am most thankful and overwhelmed by the little things; the
smells and sights and sounds of what my life consists of this year.
Pumpkin and peanut butter chip muffins lend themselves perfectly as
an example of what I mean. I visited a dear friend this week and she listened to
me ramble on about not much at all. She let me love and her boys and made me
turtle brownies with the caramel perfectly incorporated across the top, just like
it looks on the box! She put candles on it and sang “Happy Birthday” even though
they had just gotten home from two other birthday parties and were probably
more than tired of those four repetitive lines. Her friendship and the love her fam-
ily shows me is such a pleasing, fragrant aroma and how thankful I am for such peo-
ple in my life.
Another friend of mine is a ready and waiting walking partner. Most any-
time I need a good stroll she’s right there with me and we can zip through six miles
quite easily talking and hashing out issues that require strategies and some detailed
planning. She knows that all you really need sometimes is just to walk in a straight
line, not having to think about where you’re going or how to get there, just walk-
ing.That’s exactly what I’m thankful for: Debbie and straight lines.
In the name of “wedding planning” Brandon took me shopping for an
entire day recently.Yet another perfect example of a subtle, tiny blessing that makes
such a big difference. Not once did he complain, or mention that he wasn’t having
Anna Pitts lives in Florence. She is currently
the best time ever trying on suit jackets and walking around a mall carrying bags
pursuing her career as a School Library
full of purchases. He even sat patiently at the cosmetic counter in a rather large Media Specialist and loving every minute
cosmetic store and innocently waited for me to decide exactly what shade I need- of the journey!
134 10/26/09 10:15 AM Page 1
106 10/23/09 10:50 AM Page 1

chicklit:
What’s on
Jan McKenzie’s
Best-Seller List?

Big The
Chickens
BY Leslie Helakoski

As a Media Specialist, I find it very

hard to suggest just one book to the read-
ers of She Magazine. However, I just fin-
ished reading The Shack by William Paul
&
the loss of his daughter and his desire to
forgive man and God. The story provides a
unique perspective of God’s desire for a
closer relationship with man.
Shack BY William P. Young

Henry Cole. I love to read this book to my

Young, and I recommend it for anyone who
enjoys reading Christian fiction books. The
main character in the book guides us
through his journey filled with sadness at
I also love, love, love children’s
books! One of my favorites is Big Chickens
written by Leslie Helakoski. The pictures
are by a wonderfully, funny illustrator,
5K students. It makes us all laugh and laugh
at the silly chickens who think danger is
everywhere. The author uses humor to
teach us to overcome our fears, and the
illustrator makes us laugh at the comical
antics of the chickens. Need a good way to
feel young again? Read a book to a child!

Jan McKenzie is the Media Specialist at Latta Elementary School in Latta and has worked for LES for eighteen years. She enjoys living in Latta where she is
close to her two sons, Spence and Jonathan, and their wives, Heather and Leah. Her hobbies (other than reading) include bike riding and shopping.
107 10/22/09 3:52 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 107

Share a
Holiday Prelude
Holiday Downtown Marion
Tradition Dec 5 & 6, 2009
with your
Saturday, December 5th
Family.
The Artists’ Place in the HMRA building : 9:30am-4pm
Photos with Santa at Byars Park on Main Street : 10am-1pm
Carriage Rides to The Inn on Harlee : 10am-1pm
Marion Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade on Main : 4:30pm

Sunday, December 6th

Artists’ Place in the HMRA building : 1-4pm
Pilot Club Soup & Cornbread supper and bake sale : 5pm-7pm at
the Marion Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. There will also be a silent
auction and raffle during the evening.
The arrival of Santa Claus, aboard the City of Marion Fire Truck: 5:30pm
Annual Tree Lighting and Program at the Square : 6pm
Please join us as we usher in the Christmas Spirit
Fireworks immediately following at Withlacoochee Park
in Historic Downtown Marion. Bring family and
friends and make your own special Holiday
memories. Family oriented activities with good For more info, call 423-9918 or visit our
food and fellowship. website at www.theswampfox.com.

210 West Harrison St.

Dillon, SC
-A GIFT STORE- 843-841-2883
108 10/23/09 11:14 AM Page 1

the Second Act

preparing for what
comes next

W by Ouida K. Page
hen change comes to our lives, it always seems to be at an inconvenient
time. Maybe that’s because most of us just don’t like change anyway. Sometimes,
things just happen. For example, some women have lost their jobs because of the econo-
my, or they had to quit their job and move with their husband because he had to find a new
job in another state or town when he lost his job. Either way, they had to essentially start over
in the business world. This is always a very stressful period of time and may even be considered
a crisis. It is also a chance for this individual to grow spiritually, emotionally and maybe even edu-
cationally.
Growing can be hard – and even painful. This isn’t something we want to hear because it’s
very hard to grow and to have to change, especially if it wasn’t our idea to begin with. This type
of situation pulls on every fiber of our being and uses all of our personal resources, talents, gifts –
and our faith in God.
Going back to school today is very different from attending school ten, even twenty years
ago. Applying for a job is also vastly different. One of my degrees is a B.S. in Nursing. In the
past, I could take my résumé and go door-to-door to different hospitals or facil-
ities and interview and have a new job – or even a better paying job – in
approximately one week, ten days at the longest. Today, this is unheard of.
You have to apply online and the entire process is very different. You have to
wait and hope that you get a call from someone who probably doesn’t know you
and has never met you.
School, on the other hand, is all e-mail stuff. The exam you take may be sent to you
by e-mail, your term papers are sent to the professor via e-mail, and you search for library
books at on-line libraries, etc. Everyone uses PowerPoint for presentations in class. And, if your
professor cancels class, you’ll get the message via e-mail.
This is all vastly different, and the best way to be prepared for change is to try and keep up with as
many of the technological advances as possible. This helps you prepare for what comes next. If you hate your
current job, rather than just quit in this economy, I would devise a plan. Decide what job you want and figure out
all the details involved in procuring and securing that specific job. It would be excellent if you could get a copy of the
written job description so you will have a better idea of what you are getting yourself into. Also, figure out if you possess all
the required skill sets. You may need to take a college course to become more up-to-date and ready to compete with the mar-
ket and be prepared for other competitive factors.
Have you considered starting your own business or considered going back to school to make a complete career
change? Maybe it’s time to pursue a lifelong dream. People age physically, of course, but most people don’t feel that their minds
have changed or slowed down. In other words, if you’re in good physical condition, then it’s never too late to go back to school.
According to research, it may take some adults a little longer to learn new material, but they have so many other advantages
over younger students.
Focus on the positive gifts and characteristics that you possess. Just don’t give up. Be tenacious and consistent, and
you’ll accomplish whatever goals you set. Don’t let people rob you of your “second act” if that’s what you desire to achieve.
And, don’t let fear stop you and prevent your success.

Ouida K. Page is a Master’s Prepared Licensed Professional and National Board Certified Counselor. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau (International Honor Society of Nursing). She has been in private practice in the Hartsville and
Florence areas for over 15 years, specializing in families and issues relating to children, adolescents and women of all ages.
You may contact her by e-mailing editor@shemagazine.com with “Ouida” as the subject matter.
109 10/28/09 3:29 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 109

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110 10/27/09 4:57 PM Page 1
Campus
Chick
Emerald Owens
FAMILY: My family and I are very close.
My wonderful mother, Janet, and my supportive brother,
Javier, and I all live together in the great city of Florence.
HIGH SCHOOL: Wilson High School
RIGHT OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL, I WANTED
TO: I was involved in the WHS News Team, and I was a
part of the Wilson High School Gospel Choir. Both of
these activities were a lot of fun and I’m still inspired by
them. The News Team, especially, because this is when I
found out what I really wanted to do for a living.
ATTRACTION TO FLORENCE-DARLINGTON
TECHNICAL COLLEGE: After I graduated high
school, I was exhausted, so I didn’t start college right
away. I started FDTC during the spring of 08. I was
attracted to them by their curriculum.
MAJOR: I’m going for my Associate’s Degree in Arts.
FURTHER EDUCATION PLANS: Because of the
program that I’m involved in called Student Support
Services (SSS), I plan to transfer to a four-year college
Florence-Darlington Technical College
and engage in the Two-Plus-Two Program where I can get
my Associate’s Degree at FDTC, and then transfer to a col-
lege and receive my Bachelor’s Degree from that college in
two years. That way, I’ll have two degrees in four years.
DREAM JOB: My dream job is to be a News Anchor on
Good Morning America; but, if I don’t make it there, a local
news station will suffice just fine.
SCHOOL ACTIVITIES: Currently I’m in work-study
at FDTC as an Administrative Assistant and was chosen
to be the Ambassador for the Fatherhood and Families
Engagement Program. This is a program designed to help
fathers in the community to become better providers
for their families, better employees for their jobs and
productive citizens by counseling, workshop classes,
GED preparation, job training and employment assis-
tance. Our mission is “To empower, equip and educate
fathers in the Pee Dee Area to build healthy relationships
with their children and become responsible citizens.”
We work hard to help the community help themselves.
From working here, I’ve been blessed with the opportu-
nity to have my own Internet radio show on www.scvil-
lagevoicesradio.com.
My show is called “Community Times with Princess
Emmy” (which is my nickname – I consider myself a
princess because my Father, Jesus Christ, is the King).
SPARE TIME: When I’m not working, studying or at
my church (First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ), I’m
usually bowling at Lee All Star Lanes, eating at Pizza Hut,
eating seafood at Miguel’s or at the movies. I love hang-
ing out with my friends; they are so funny; but, most of
all, they are loyal.
BIGGEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE AS A
COLLEGE STUDENT: That’s definitely learning to
apply for financial aid on time. However, I’m working my
way up on that. I’ve volunteered with Tonya Brown from
WPDE News Channel 15 on several occasions. She is a
wonderful person, and I love all the time I get to spend
with her.
MY INFLUENCE: My favorite influential people are
my Pastor, Gino Jennings – I follow him as he follows
Christ. And, Michelle Obama – she is virtually a super-
woman!
111 10/27/09 5:25 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 111

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112 10/23/09 2:33 PM Page 1
How to Raise a
Go-Getter
Encouraging Children to
Reach Their Highest
Potential
What we tell our kids
they are, they will
believe they are.
We are all born with a potential to achieve and
succeed. It may be in art, accounting, writing or mathemat-
ics. There are different strengths within each of us. As par-
ents, it’s hard to know what we should cultivate in our chil-
dren and how to help them maintain that adventurous spir-
it in pursuing their goals.
I had a professor once who told us that children
are born with potential to succeed, but the world works
hard to snuff that out as soon as it can. A cynical view, I
agree, and it is not the intention of “the world” or parents
to discourage their children. However, it can be a natural
parenting error that goes unnoticed. We live in a capitalis-
tic society, one that encourages academic and monetary
achievement. It’s natural to attempt to maximize our chil-
dren’s achievement. After all, we want our children to be
comfortable, accepted and secure in, what we so annoying-
ly call “the real world.” Just know that what you say may
not be what they hear, and parenting words may steer
them from a successful direction. Yikes!
Fatima, an energetic four-year-old, says, “I want to
be a ballerina.” A slight fear, ever so slight, resonates in the
mother’s heart, and mild anxiety produces a response.
Mom says, “You like school; maybe you’ll be a teacher or a
doctor.”
What do you think Fatima hears? She hears that
(1) being a ballerina is unacceptable, (2) she is wrong for
wanting something for herself and her parent will tell her
who to be, (3) maybe she’s not really good at ballet.
Okay, let’s face it. With a four-year-old, you may
not say anything. You may simply think she’s cute and gig-
gle her words away. But, be honest. You say to yourself,
“She’s still young. Of course, she wants to do that. I have
time. I have time.”
Imagine if Fatima said the same thing at fourteen-
years-old. What would your response be then? Instead of
implying that she should not want to be a ballerina, praise
her motivation to be something. You could say, “You love
Lea Pritchard-Boone is wife to Austin and mother to Dalton (4). A Clinical Psychologist in private practice, she focuses
primarily on treating children, adolescents and families. She is currently accepting new referrals at 843-601-3246.
by Dr. Lea Pritchard-Boone, PhD
dancing and are so good at it. It makes you so happy. You’re
so good at so many things; you can be whatever you want
to be.”
We have a tendency to forget that our children
need to enjoy life, too. By implying that something that
makes them happy is a waste of their time or an unneces-
sary pursuit, we’re really missing the boat. Raising daugh-
ters that way encourages them to become women who
don’t practice self-care or pursue personal time. Know any
of those?
Here it comes. Are you ready? This is a golden
nugget of information. What we tell our kids they are, they
will believe they are. The way we evaluate them, through
our actions and our words, will become the way they eval-
uate themselves in thoughts and emotions. You hold a very
important power in your hands – their self-concept. Focus
on what they do well. You should address and work
towards bolstering their weaknesses; but, get in, manage
and get out of those times. Spend more time – much more
time – focusing on their strengths. You believe in them and
they will believe in themselves. Trust me, you want an
internally-motivated adolescent, so work hard to raise one.
You can encourage responsibility by giving your
child roles and tasks in the home. Yes, chores. Reward
efforts more than results; this will create an internal feeling
of “wanting-to-do” within your child. If they didn’t do a
“good job,” instruct them how to do better in a matter-of-
fact teaching way rather than a you-should-have-done-it-
right-the-first-time way. After all, they did attempt the
chore. There are many children who don’t get that far. Be
careful you’re not punishing effort.
You must encourage problem-solving and deci-
sion-making. In our hectic days, we tend to solve our chil-
dren’s problems for them and take away their decision-
making power. We don’t want to raise children who don’t
believe in themselves enough to solve problems in which
they will be presented. We want them to believe that they
are competent to make decisions. If we take away all of
their control, we don’t teach them self-control and how to
manage independence. Encourage them to do for them-
selves.
My son is four-years-old, and he makes his own
bed. It won’t be in any children’s décor magazine, but he
makes it himself. He grabs those covers and slings them up
towards the pillows. When I’m making my bed, I verbalize,
“Mom likes to smooth the wrinkles like this. Swoosh!” and
“Mommy likes to put the pillow on top of the covers, then
the shams over top. Can you help me tug the bottom
down? Thanks. Wow, you’re a good bed maker!”
Over the course of a couple weeks, I’ve noticed
his pillows and shams are being placed in their proper
place, and his wrinkles are getting smoother. He’s actually
doing a very good job with it. And, yes, I’m gonna say it; he
wants to do it every morning, and he wants to show off his
progress! Do you see how there was no scolding for doing
it wrong because that just makes him not want to do it
again.
Why would they not want to avoid criticism?
There was no direct, firm, teaching that implied he did it
wrong, either. After all, it is his bed. This is a small exam-
ple of a broader parenting approach that we should strive
to adopt.
The good news is this; we don’t have to raise go-
getters. They usually are just born ready to do. We just
have to work towards encouraging their motivation to do,
and we must be kind in our instruction. Cultivate their
desires to achieve and their motivation towards accom-
plishing any goal. These skills will generalize into self-con-
fidence and self-esteem. If they believe in themselves, they
will succeed in life, have better boundaries with others and
be more emotionally well-rounded. That’s what we want,
right? We want them to be happy and live a good life.
Remember, you hold the power, so be careful
where you point that thing!
113 10/26/09 4:09 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 113

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The Entrepreneurs
Recent reports say women are
starting new businesses at 1.5 times
the rate of men. Even during the recession,
more and more women are saying,
“Now is the time.” Ironically, losing
a job or failure to find one can be
the boost a woman needs to pursue the
dream of owning her own business.
The truth is, women are natural business
owners. They have an innate ability to
juggle and multi-task, think quick
on their feet, and they are fearless.
Research also suggests the fact
that women are such great networkers
gives them an advantage over
their male counterparts.

Let’s hear it for

GIRL POWER!
With She Magazine’s regular
advertisers, we have nearly
70 women-Owned Businesses.
These businesses fuel our
local economy and offer a
diverse shopping experience.
This month, we celebrate the
REMARKABLE WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS
who pursued their dreams
to own their own businesses.

The Faces of
Women-Owned Businesses
begin on page 116.
116 10/28/09 2:30 PM Page 1

Cassandra Bonnoitt Helen Nikolakakos & Pauline Kremydas Tippi N. Harwell

Bistro Catering Co.
Emily Philips Martha Darby Scott
Baby Furniture & More The Drive-In Restaurant (and partner Bill) Burry Bookstore Carolina Travel & Tours

Heather Jordan Patsy Clemmons Patsy Evans MaryAnn Chapman

Chameleon Art Gallery Toni AdamsJoy LLC First Impressions Fit 4 U! Flossie Mae’s
Dance For

Shawna Gilman Harriette Allen Sherri Hyler Dr. Griselda Wilson Connie Williams
FunDayGo (and partner, John) Get Framed Lookin! Good Aesthetics G.Wilson Enterprises, Inc. Kid’s Korner

Brandi Wheeler Lynda English & Jackie Wukela

Lynda English Studio
Brenda Dennis Pam Byrd Beth Grant
Mantissa Row
Lulu’s Boutique Maibe Sew Home Market Main Street Jewel (and partner, Don)
ers

Megan Porter Gore & Brenda Porter Miriam Parker & Trecy Grant Gloria Kasler, RN Dale F. Cole Vickie Greenan & Amy McEachin
Minnie’s Giftique National Hardware Nightingale’s Nursing Physician’s Weight Loss Porter’s Gift Shop
117 10/28/09 1:59 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 117

Get ready for

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118 10/28/09 2:34 PM Page 1

April Grainger Jonnette Baggett Shannon McGillivray Liz Odom Mary Janice Cooper
Surcie’s Cottontails Children’s Boutique Goosie Ganders Liz Odom Photography Tuperware

Rita Buck TammieWoodland

Simmons Caudle Magen Pike Dr. Nancy Windham
Donna Howelndl partner, Bryan)
Builders
Merle Norman-Darlington (and partners, Dexter & Robin Simmons) Segars Fencing (& partners, Les) Windham Aesthetics
Fire It Up (a

Karen A. Leatherman Laura Poston Ginny Casstevens Yavonne Dowling Toni Taylor
Fitness Forum Ashley’s Hair Salon Flirt Boutique Avanti Hair Salon Katie Mac

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nda Spadoni & Ada Nwkunda
Merle Norman- Florence Purse-N-Alize It Merle Norman-Marion The Little White DMelanie Hellmer Slim Magic
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Mary Daniels BeautiControl Heyward & Hanna The Toy Shop Shhh... Intimate Apparel
(and partner, Dr. O’Dell)
119 10/28/09 11:16 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 119

DR. GLENN CLINGEMPEEL

LICENSED CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST
Announces the opening of a private practice
Starting at
$40 SPECIALIZING IN THE TREATMENT OF:
Anxiety and depression in children, adolescents, and adults
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Intervention effectiveness is assessed continuously

DR. CLINGEMPEEL’S CREDENTIALS:

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120 10/28/09 2:37 PM Page 1

Jeanette Jordan Phyllis Brown & Jean Turner Kim Uyak Beth Twedell Toni Starks
Sew Unique Quilt Shop Flowers By Starks
Second Time Around Sweet Serenity Physician’s Plan (with partner, David)

Blanca Sarmiento Christine K. Johnson Cheryl Fields

Sarmiento Jewelers
(with partner Edgar)
Niki Chavisance Arts The Art Shoppe Cheryl’s Flowers & Gifts Carol Ann Rambo Godwin
Rambo’s Shoes
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Esther Thomas Jennifer Fleming Stacey Green Rebecca Thompson Sophia Powell
Young World Spa de Vie Monograms By Gail Palmetto Place The Peasant’s Market

WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS FACTS:

“American women are, in effect, the largest “national economy on earth.”
-Tom Peters

Women control 85% of all personal and household goods spending.

-Women’s Consumer Network

The growth of women-owned businesses outpace overall business growth by 2 to 1.

-Bureau of Labor

There are exciting things happening inside world of women entrepreneurs.

Women are now the dominant force in small business ownership, and succeeding in
industries that were once taboo for women. - The Minorities in Business Report
121 10/27/09 4:09 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 121

CHECK OUT WHAT Cheraw HAS TO OFFER!

122 10/28/09 1:39 PM Page 1

“Remember,
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-Faith Whittlesey
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123 10/26/09 4:42 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 123

“Getaway” from Tired-looking Skin...

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124 10/27/09 2:25 PM Page 1

the Empty seat

by Melia Flowers Berry

It’s November. Normally, by this time of year, I’m ready (though “pre-
maturely” as my children tell me) for the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.
This year, though, for the first time in my life, those warm, fuzzy, festive feelings
are absent. It’s not that I’ve lost my love for these special holidays, it’s still there.
It’s just buried beneath an avalanche of pain and sad memories.
This November will mark the one-year anniversary of the death of my
DaDa. He went to be with the Lord the day before Thanksgiving last year. On
Thanksgiving Day, I felt so much grief that I didn’t even think of it as Thanksgiving.
we ever shared, and I am thankful that my daddy now spends Thanksgiving with
our Heavenly Father.
I know my DaDa wants me to enjoy this Thanksgiving. He wants me to
cook and hum in the kitchen. He wants me to smother those poor vegetables in
cream of mushroom soup and cheese and all the ingredients needed to take them
from their natural state to a good ol’ Southern casserole. He wants me to love
on my mother and hug my children and remember him with laughter. Most of all,
he wants us to never, ever forget how much he loves us. That, I can do.

“Most of all, I can see the love in his eyes

looking back at me from the end of the table.”
So, this year when we have Thanksgiving dinner, it will be the first time
without him. My throat tightens as I write this from my den and look into my
dining room at the chair in which my DaDa sat since I began having Thanksgiving
dinner at my house.
As the days begin to unfold leading up to the night he died, I know I will
relive each moment. I dread the process beginning. I can recall the events of
that last month almost hour by hour, and it makes me so sad. Even thoughts of
saying the words,“It’s been a year since my daddy died” make it all seem so final.
Up until this point, I could think back to memories of “last year.” Now that it’s
actually the one-year anniversary, I have only one memory – my DaDa is gone.
I can no longer say, “Last year this time, I was with my daddy.”
My daddy was over six feet tall and lean from a life-time of working hard
and staying active, and he had a ferocious appetite. He loved to eat and loved
Thanksgiving dinner. However, he always ate healthy and he always loved food
in its purest form. For example, I love sweet potato casserole, and I make it at
Thanksgiving. My DaDa would rather have just a plain sweet potato with a lit-
tle butter (not margarine, again, the real thing). The same went for green beans
and squash; give them to him in their natural form with a little seasoning, and he
was good to go. He wasn’t impressed with green bean or squash casserole.
For these special holiday dinners, however, he would let me pile his plate
high with food from all the dishes I made, all the while saying, “Not so much,
Love.” Though DaDa was always the last man sitting, he would finish every bite,
just to make me happy. And, then he would eat dessert.
One of the many things I’ll always remember about him was the way he
would place his hands together and say in almost a whisper, “Oh, boy!” when
about to consume something good. He seemed like a little boy when he did
this, and it made me realize just how much he loved the simple things in life –
like a bowl of vanilla ice cream or the old-fashioned flour bread my mother
baked just for him. He was precious that way.
I can see his beautiful smile now and hear his deep yet soft voice and
roaring laugh. His laugh was incredible. Most of all, I can see
the love in his eyes looking back at me from the end of the
table.
I’m struggling to get in the spirit of the
Thanksgiving season, but I’m still thankful. I am so
thankful for every moment God gave me with my
DaDa. I am thankful for every Thanksgiving dinner

Melia Flowers Berry is the Editor and Publisher of She Magazine.

Most proudly, she is the daughter of David (her DaDa)
and Earline Flowers and mom to Josh, Jacob and Haley.
125 10/27/09 9:52 AM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 125

“We were having a pool installed and

FREE ESTIMATES • 843-667-3232
WWW.SEEGARSFENCE.COM
Seegars Fence Company offers private label
vinyl and aluminum fencing in order to meet
the needs of every homeowner. With the
capability to create intricate designs and
custom options, we can offer your home an
individualized look. Our warranties are
second to none - our ornamental aluminum
is warranted against fading or rusting an
our vinyl is sturdy enough to last a lifetime.
When quality and price matter, you can
count on Seegars Fence Company.
needed to extend the wrought iron fenc-
ing that was already in place. After
researching several suppliers with no
luck we received the She Magazine for
the month of August and saw the ad for
fencing. That same day we called and
discussed our needs. Seegars Fence had
a booth at the home show through the
HBA of the Pee Dee at the Magnolia
Mall. Helpful advice was given and
product examples were shown to match
our existing fence (wrought iron). We
scheduled a free estimate at our home
and a price was given that day. Fence
installation began soon after without
being bothered by boarding our dog.
The fence went up so fast! It is perfect
for our landscape and we enjoyed work-
ing with them very much. They made
this so easy for us."
-The Sparrows of Hartsville, SC

Demand the Best.

Girls Night Out 2009

We want to thank all of you present at our
“Girls Night Out”
for making it an evening of fun, friends and useful
information on our skin care, dermal fillers,
various laser treatments and breast sugeries.

A special thanks to our models and product representatives.

We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did!

GRIFFIN PLASTIC SURGERY

513 South Dargan Street, Florence, SC • 843-664-1122
www.griffinplasticsurgery.medem.com
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
PLASTIC SURGEONS, INC.
126 10/28/09 1:11 PM Page 1

THE IMPACT
OF DIABETES
Dr. Andrei Talantov is an Inpatient Physician (Hospitalist) at
McLeod Regional Medical Center. Dr.Talantov specializes in
Internal Medicine, and completed a Diabetes Fellowship at
East Carolina University in 2007.
Dr. Talantov works closely with the McLeod Diabetes Center.
Andrei Talantov, MD
Diabetes Mellitus - How Do We Define It? Diabetic Amputations:

Diabetes mellitus is a condition in which a person has chronically raised blood
glucose concentration. It is caused by an insufficient level of the
hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas.
Diagnosis of Diabetes:
• Fasting Blood Glucose > 125 on two occasions
• Random Glucose > 200 in patients with symptoms of diabetes
(excessive thirst and hunger; frequent urination, tiredness)
What is the Prevalence and Impact of Diabetes in the United
States?
Prevalence and Incidence of Diabetes:
• There are more than 24 million people with diabetes in the country
• Approximately 90% of these people have Type 2 diabetes (adult onset)
• More than 3 million new cases of diabetes were diagnosed in the last 2 years
• Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in our nation
(According to the Centers of Disease Control, 2008 data)
• Amputations are 15 times more likely in people with diabetes
• There are approximately 80,000 lower extremity amputations per year
related to diabetes complications
• 50% of the patients have an amputation on their other extremity within
3-5 years
• The direct cost of amputations is over $600 million per year
• The average cost per amputation $25,000-$40,000
Diabetes is also associated with an increase in heart disease (2 - 4 times);
vascular disease (4 times); erectile dysfunction (3 times), and perinatal mortality
(2 - 6 times). Even more serious, the life expectancy in people with Type 1
diabetes is reduced by about 15 years, and by about 5 years in people with
Type 2 diabetes.
Economic Costs of Diabetes:
• $138 billion total costs
• Two-thirds of diabetes expenditures are related to complications
• 25% of the total Medicare budget is devoted to the treatment of
diabetes and its complications (more than $30 billion a year)

The prevalence of diabetes is 13.7% among all men in the United Sates and
11.7% among women. Across the nation, age-standardized diabetes is
highest in Mississippi,West Virginia, Louisiana,Texas, South Carolina, Alabama,
and Georgia (15.8 - 16.6% for men and 12.4 - 14.8% for women). Vermont,
Minnesota, Montana, and Colorado have the lowest prevalence
(11.0 - 12.2% for men and 7.3 - 8.4% for women).
The financial impact on people living with diabetes is great as well.The average
out-of-pocket medical expense for people with diabetes is nearly three times
that of the general population. In addition, it is often difficult for people with
diabetes to obtain medical and life insurance.
Prevention of Complications:

The American Diabetes Association estimates that up to 85% of

complications can be prevented by tight glucose control, normal blood
pressure and cholesterol levels, treatment of early kidney disease, annual
eye exams, evaluation of nerve function and proper diabetes education.

The McLeod Diabetes Center is staffed by certified

diabetes nurses and an Advanced Practice Registered
Dietitian certified in diabetes education.
The center’s education programs help people self-manage
their diabetes to prevent or lessen complications.
The McLeod Diabetes Center is hosting their annual
Diabetes Health Fair November 7, from 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
in the McLeod Medical Plaza (800 E. Cheves Street, Florence).
The health fair offers blood glucose, blood pressure
and vision screenings, foot checks, diabetes education,
cooking demonstrations, motivational talks,
Costs of Diabetes: and much more.
The costs of diabetes are high both financially and in its toll on the For more information, call the
human life. According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is
the leading cause of new cases of blindness, the leading cause of End McLeod Diabetes Center at (843) 777 - 6000.
Stage Renal Disease, and the leading cause of non-traumatic lower
extremity amputation in our nation. Diabetes also results in an increased
Apgraduate
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127 10/27/09 4:14 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 127

10,000 sq. ft. of fabric at

AMAZING PRICES
for only

yd

WE ONLY LOOK
EXPENSIVE!
FABRIC 902 Second Loop
Florence, SC

SOLUTIONS 843.413.3666

Take charge of your smile.

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The Clear Alternative to Braces

If you feel like your smile is holding you back,

look into what Invisalign can do for you.

• Clear, comfortable, virtually invisible aligners

• No metal or wires to get in the way of
your activities
• Easy to remove to eat, brush, and floss

It’s never too late for a beautiful smile!

Drs. Welch & Bonds, P.A.

SPECIALISTS IN ORTHODONTICS

843.665.8176
Florence Office: 1343 Second Loop Rd. • Florence SC 29505
Hartsville Office: 1300 South Fourth St. • Hartsville SC 29550
128 10/26/09 3:55 PM Page 1

Florence’s Only Certified Bariatrics Center

Florence Wellness
& Weight-Loss Center
J. MARSHALL DENT, M.D.,
under the direction of
FLORENCE’S ONLY BARIATRIC PHYSICIAN
NOW OFFERING FULL & MODIFIED FAST AS WELL AS OTHER PROGRAMS TAILORED TO YOUR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

“ I’ve lost 66 POUNDS!

Melissa Duncan tells her story.
”
HER STORY... My motivation for everything in my life is my son. After being diagnosed as borderline dia-
betic almost two years ago, I knew I had to make some changes in my life. I had to lose the extra weight
because I want to make sure I live a long, healthy life so that I can be here for my son.
When I started the program, I weighed 217 pounds. I’m on the Modified Fast Plan, which means I
have two supplements a day, along with my regular diet meal plan. For my exercise, I try to walk regularly,
and I stay active.
The hardest part for me throughout this whole process has been resisting the temptation of desserts.
I love to eat cake! Nonetheless, the diet plan is very easy to follow, and I’m never left feeling hungry.
After losing the first ten pounds so quickly, I was very motivated to keep going. But, the best part
about losing the weight has been reversing the diabetes. I also don’t have the knee and hip pain that I used
to experience every day.
I’ve always had trouble losing weight and keeping it off, but I can say this has been the best program
for me. IF I CAN DO IT, SO CAN YOU!
I now weigh 151 pounds, and I’m wearing a size 10-12 these days. I have never worn a size 10 in
my life! I’ve lost a total of 66 pounds so far, and I want to continue until I make it to an even 70 pounds.
Thank you, to everyone at Florence Wellness & Weight-Loss Center, for all your encouragement and
help in making me the best meI can be!

before

after
Top 10 reasons to choose
Florence Wellness and Weight-Loss Center
1. The ONLY board certified bariatric physician in the Pee Dee
2. The ONLY certified Bariatric Center in the Pee Dee
3. The most cost effective program in the Pee Dee
4. Individual programs tailored to your needs and the flexibility to change programs
5. Thorough metabolic laboratory evaluation on every patient
6. The knowledge and experience to offer hormone balancing to enhance weight loss
7. Bonafide maintenance program once goal weight is obtained
8. Each patient seen by physician every visit
9. All inclusive plans (no hidden cost)
10. Flexible hours and late hours to better accommodate your schedule

Complete Women’s Health Care

See Dr. Dent’s article

J. Marshall Dent, M.D.

Member of North American Menopausal Society • Member of American Bariatrics Physicians
on pg.62

410 South Coit Street • Florence • 665.5055

129 10/28/09 4:06 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 129

Autumn Awaits You at This Holiday Season

Asbury Village
As we welcome Autumn, cooler, crisp weather and
changing leaves often brings a sense of rejuvenation
Give
e The
e Giftt Theyy Reallyy Want!
and renewal. This Autumn, experience a renewal of
your own-experience Asbury Village patio homes at
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WORKING IN HIS GARDEN
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• Custom-built, all brick patio homes
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• Basic utilities, property taxes, and Gift Certificates Available
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• Weekly housekeeping, linen, and
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• Restaurant-style dining with flexible Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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130 10/27/09 5:02 PM Page 1
Annie
The Remarkable Role of Motherhood
i I had a really bad SAHM (stay-at-home-mom)
Day recently, and I thought seriously about going back to
work and putting my children in daycare. I thought,
“Surely, they would be better off where they could play
with other children and have scheduled activities all day
long.” That way – as opposed to being at home – every
day would be different. At home, the girls have each
other but not playmates their age. Sometimes, they have
to entertain themselves while Mommy cooks, cleans and
does laundry. Or, they have to succumb to a less excit-
ing idea for play because Mommy is just too worn out to
do the high-maintenance activity they want to do. My
oldest (3) has even told me before that she wanted to go
to daycare (since other children do). So, why do I do
this? Why do I stay at home and make my children lead
this inadequate life with me? Well, the answer should
have been obvious: it is not inadequate. In fact, it is more
than adequate. It is advantageous to their growth in
Christ and, therefore, in life.
My mother-in-law had wise advice that I have heard
confirmed by other experienced parents in this matter,
“The first five years of a child’s life are vitally important
in the outcome of the rest of his life.” I have heard it said
that a child can learn a second language most quickly by
age five. Well, there is a lot more that a child can learn
other than languages. A child can learn about God. In
just three years, my daughter has memorized a half a
dozen Scripture Passages, the Ten Commandments, The
Lord’s Prayer and countless Bible and praise songs. Even
more, I can’t keep track of how many times I’ve had
opportunities to teach the girls about putting each other
first, not being selfish, loving, sharing, caring for
each other, being obedient, being respectful,
obeying out of a love for God and a love for His
Word and focusing on the Kingdom of God and
not on the pleasures of this world.
Originally from Orlando, Florida, Annie Collins now resides in Marion with her husband, Dan, a Youth Minister, and their two daughters, Maddy and Phoebe.
She is a 2004 graduate of Columbia International University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Annie looks forward to your feedback. You may contact her at anniescollins@yahoo.com.
at
Not only have I had countless opportunities to teach
my children about God; but, as a result of being with them
all the time, God has taught me about Himself. Recognizing
His holiness, I have become more keenly aware of my sin-
fulness – especially in the areas of impatience and anger.
I’ve had to rely so heavily on God in those areas, praying
and memorizing Scripture to combat those sins.
He has also worked on my heart to modify its treas-
ure. Staying at home means less money, which means less
stuff, changing the desire of my heart to wanting less and
giving more.
I also feel, sometimes, that this once bright individual has
become slow due to the loss of brain cells that came with
pregnancy, birth and too much Blues Clues and Dora.
Then, God revealed to me through some amazing Christian
women authors and speakers to sharpen my mind through
deep study of His Word. Reading and studying a subject
results in an increase of knowledge; so, reading and study-
ing the Bible increases your knowledge about God. The
subject is called theology – definition: “the study of the
nature of God.”
I read the lyrics below on the blog of a Christian hip-hop
artist that I like, and I felt they described my hopes and desires
perfectly. I hope one day
someone can say this
about me.
by Annie Collins
“Her passion grows greater as she beholds Him
Job title: Homemaker/Theologian
Early in her walk, she would fight against His will then
The Lord used her marriage and the Bible to reveal sin
Now she fights to kill sin and her greatest joy is
serving her husband as she’s disciplining her children
While worldly mothers stress shopping for the new style
She’s pouring into younger women,Titus 2 style
Teaching others how to rightly see brothers and be mothers
And most of all, better Jesus lovers
Christ crucified! That’s her permanent shout
And, by the grace of the Lord, she’s working it out”
Most of the time, I feel very blessed to be a SAHM. I
know that if I worked, I wouldn’t have the same oppor-
tunity to interact with my children on this level of teach-
ing about God at this point in their lives. I would be
stretched too thin. Some women feel they have more to
give as working moms, and I can understand that, too.
But, knowing myself fairly well, I’m confident that I’m
right where God wants me – able to instruct my children
in righteousness throughout the day – every day – in
these few early formative years. The more time I have
with my children, the more opportunity I have to teach
them God’s Word – and, hopefully, on the good days,
exemplify what it means to follow Christ.
131 10/23/09 2:28 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 131

Y|Üx gÜtÇáyÉÜÅxw àÉ TÜà

VÉÅyÉÜà
Host a Cooking Show!
It’s simple and rewarding!
• Learn easy recipes and cooking and entertaining tips.
• Earn FREE and discounted products of your choice.
• Have fun with your friends.
Call me to schedule your Show today!
TÅu|xÇvx
You’re invited to browse our showroom. We have over 20 live burning displays!

Ferebe Gasque
Independent Consultant 1923 2nd Loop Road
Phone: 843-673-0810 Florence, SC • (843) 662-9800
singingchef@earthlink.net www.fireituppatioandhearth.com
www.pamperedchef.biz/singingchef
132 10/28/09 11:09 AM Page 1

Whooo?

Who is the most remarkable

woman you know?

1 Perry Benton, Jr. - Florence

“The most remarkable woman I know became my stepmother
when I was four. Three years later, she was diagnosed with cancer
and flat-lined during surgery to remove it. Although there was
serious permanent damage, she still has the best outlook on life
that I could ever imagine. She is a great reminder to me to never
take anything for granted, and I’m lucky to have such a remarkable
mother.”

2 Jim Berry - Florence

“The most remarkable women in my life are my mother,

Dianne, and my wife, Esther, because of their Christ-like
love, encouragement, support and prayers for me.”

David Walters - Hartsville

3
“My wife, Marla Walters, is the most remarkable woman
I know. She’s the best teacher, an excellent mother (she
loves all children), my best friend and the love of my life.”

Jim Kennedy - Florence

4
“My wife is the most remarkable woman I know because of her
wonderful accomplishments with her business.”
133 10/23/09 1:16 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 133

Wedding
Anniversary
Birthdays
Corporate Meetings
Romantic Getaways

Start Booking
Your Christmas
Parties Now!
Ca l l f o r yo u r
re s e r va t i o n t o d a y !
843-665-0846
1247 South Irby Street • Florence, SC

Efficient, reliable, clean – natural gas is the smart

energy choice for your home. It’s not just about
comfort anymore. Natural gas appliances are more
energy efficient, more cost-effective to operate, last
longer and require less maintenance. And, natural gas
is one of the most environmentally-friendly energy
sources available.

Be sure to ask your builder for natural gas in your

next home. If you’re already an SCE&G natural gas
customer and want to add additional natural gas
appliances, you may qualify for a rebate and the
SCE&G ValueRate. To learn more, call 1-866-523-8242
or visit SCE&G’s virtual home at sceg.com/value.

www.comfortableresponsible.org www.sceg.com/value
134 10/28/09 11:06 AM Page 1

Dear She,
I read “Beauty Buzz” every month in hopes that someone will ask a
question about teeth whitening. I haven’t seen this topic addressed yet, so
here’s my question. Who is a candidate for professional teeth whitening,

the buzz:
and why does professional whitening work better than over-the-counter
whiteners? Also, how does the procedure work and how much can I
expect to pay?

Thank you,
k Liesa Davies, Pamplico, SC

Dear Liesa,
Thank you for your questions. I have answered each question in sequence below.

• Teeth Whitening is ideal for any patient who has healthy nonrestored teeth – ones
that have no fillings, crowns or bridges. Even though the teeth whitening procedure is gener-
ally very painless and easy, like any procedure, there are limits to who can benefit from it.
Results are not 100% predictable and are unique to each patient.
• Professional Tooth Whitening typically costs $200 and up. In our office, we offer a
free whitening for new patients that have an exam, cleaning and x-rays. The teeth whitening
product is strongly concentrated, and we provide a custom-fitted re-usable tray. With this cus-
tom-made tray, you use a bleach solution that may be twice as strong as over-the-counter prod-
ucts, and you can expect greater results. However, there is also a possibility of increased sen-
sitivity. These results are based on the patient’s age, bleach contact time, pressure on the bleach
and concentration level of the bleach solution.
• An At-Home Teeth Whitening product generally costs $35 to $100 and is a product
that is far less concentrated than the professional teeth whitening solution. This technique
involves a non-custom-made tray or wearing strips every day at home.

For more information and valuable whitening coupons, please visit our website,
www.carolinasmile.com.

She,
Something Dear
For a couple years,I have seen the ads in She Magazine for veneers,

to Smile and I would like to know if the procedure is painful. Also, do you have to
have every tooth replaced with veneers all at once, or can you get veneers
on the ones that need it most and keep going until you have replaced all
About needed teeth. My front teeth are badly discolored, and I’ve been told that
whitening will not work for me.

Thank you,
with B. J., Florence, SC
by ???????
Joe Griffin, DMD Dear B. J.,

Advanced Dental Center of Florence There is prep work that is done prior to the placement of the veneer. During this
2214 West Palmetto Street • Florence work, you may experience some normal discomfort, as in any dental work. However, when the
843-629-8000 • Toll-Free: 800-THANKSU veneers are placed – and while they are in place – there is usually no pain. LUMINEERS are

Fax: 843-629-8348
E-mail your beauty questions or suggestions
for a topic that you would like to know
more about to editor@shemagazine.com.
Include “Beauty Buzz” as the subject.
porcelain veneers that are “contact-lens-thin,” placed over existing teeth without having to
reshape as much tooth structure.
Generally, the dentist would place six, eight or ten veneers at one time. This depends
on your smile and how many teeth really show when smiling or laughing. If you were to place
just two – or even one at a time – you would have different shades and sizes of teeth. Those
results would probably not make you happy with the veneer applications.
135 10/22/09 3:55 PM Page 1

She Magazine • November 2009 • 135

Business
Women
Love To
Barter

Carolina
Barter EXCHANGE

www.Barter.sc
(866)532-4725 Info@ Barter.sc
136 10/26/09 4:45 PM Page 1

FAST CONVENIENT GREAT RATES

137 10/27/09 10:48 AM Page 1

A slower pace of
yesterday can refresh
you for today's living.

The Grove Special Events • Bed & Breakfast

The Inn on Harlee–Marion, SC Tours & Much More!
For Reservations, call 843.423.5220 or visit WWW.MONTGOMERYSGROVEINN.COM
138 10/28/09 10:20 AM Page 1

fabulous finds Large Serving Dish

Cheryl’s Flowers & Gifts
Hartsville

Decorative Turkey Statue

Napkin Holder & Weight
Monograms by Gail Fisher’s Jewelers
Florence
Scranton

Look what made our

fabulous list this month!

Harvest Serving Platter

Bridger’s Drug Store
Marion

Garnier Linens and

Woodland China by Spode
cutting board Porter’s Gift Shop
Goosie Gander’s Florence
Florence
139 10/28/09 10:14 AM Page 1

A D a y With Santa
benefiting

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Breakfast starts promptly at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 11:30 a.m.
Lunch starts promptly at 12:30 p.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m.

Join us for a fun filled holiday meal with Santa and his friends!
Choose between breakfast or lunch. Your child’s memory of a lifetime will include:
•Breakfast or lunch (kids only) •Story time with Mrs. Claus • A photo with Santa
•A gift from Santa •Arts and crafts •Holiday character appearances
$25.00 per child (limited seating) - RESERVATIONS ONLY!
The public is invited 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. for holiday shopping, outdoor activities, food vendors including a BBQ tasting at lunch,
and a chance to view and bid on the holiday decorations featured in the Parade of Trees (auction closes at 4:30 p.m.)

The Parade of Trees S

November 9-20, 2009
8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday
McLeod Medical Plaza
800 E. Cheves Street, Florence, SC

View and Bid on:

•Trees & Miniature Trees
•Decorative Mantle Pieces
•Wreaths & Centerpieces

Contact for more info:

The McLeod Foundation
843.777.2694
www.mcleodfoundation.org
140 10/23/09 10:56 AM Page 1

Family: Parents, Perry

and Karen Grice; Sister,
Carmen; & Dog, Precious

School:
Pee Dee Academy
Accomplishments:
Palmetto Girls State Delegate,
Head Marshal at 2009
Graduation, Senior Honor
Society, Greater Mullins
Chamber of Commerce
Citizenship Award, President Dreams for the Future:
of Anchor Club and Co-Editor To attend the University of
of the School Yearbook South Carolina and major in
Chemistry or Biology

If I could meet anyone, it

Favorite Book: would be . . . Princess Diana.
To Kill a Mockingbird
by Harper Lee If I could go anywhere in the
world, I would go to . . . Italy.
Favorite Movie: What Makes Me Laugh:
A Walk to Remember Corny jokes

Favorite Song: My BFF: My sister, Carmen

“I Can Love You Like
That” by John Michael The Coolest Person I Know:
Montgomery My cousin, Brian Davis

Words That
Inspire Me:

My Personality
in One Word:
Outgoing

C. Wilson Studios Photography

141 10/27/09 12:58 PM Page 1

Unlocking the secrets to

“Look and Feel Your Best"

for the Holidays!

JOIN OUR
MANNA HOUSE
FOOD DRIVE
NOVEMBER 9TH-20TH
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non-perishable food items & receive
$
50 OFF any of our "Look Your Best" Packages,
®
including Botox
The First 10 People Will Also Receive a
FREE Visia Skin Complexion Analysis plus
40% Glycolic Chemical Peel!
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Get Real Results with Dr. Sattele’s Rapid Weight Loss & Body Shaping Program:
S.Y. 38 year old female from Darlington, Lost 40.5 lbs in 8 weeks! 27 lbs of PURE fat!
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Don't miss our next "Look Your Best" Seminar entitled-
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WHEN: Wed. Nov. 18th at 6:00pm | WHERE: Dr. Sattele’s Rapid Weight Loss & Fitness Center, 2716 W. Palmetto St.

Kevin M. Sattele, M.D.

1611 Hazel Drive • Florence (Just off S. Cashua Dr. across from Celebration Blvd) • 843.662.1515

We are dedicated to helping you "Look & Feel Your Best" at any age!
DR. SATTELE'S RAPID WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM • ZERONA BODY SLIMMING TREATMENTS • MESOTHERAPY • SCLEROTHERAPY
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Often, back pain or injury doesn’t happen as the

result of a major accident. It is the simple everyday
task that can be a real pain in the back.

PAIN MANAGEMENT
IS OUR SPECIALTY.

DR. JOSEPH CARTER

DR. STEPHEN TUEL

New
Location Eastern Carolina Medicine
3124 S. Cashua Drive • Florence, SC • 843.665.2600
3/10 of Mile past Celebration Blvd.