VIP Magazine

Author: vipmagsc

  • Griggs Circle Bakery – Made Fresh With Love

    Griggs Circle Bakery – Made Fresh With Love

        When I was a kid, I found my small town to be quite boring. Raised in Marion, South Carolina, it was often considered a treat to visit Florence and especially Myrtle Beach. Throughout the years, I would often meet people who weren’t from “around these parts.” I’ll never forget the cool new girl who arrived to my school in eighth grade. Cool simply because she came from California. When I was told this information, I asked what I have always asked when someone arrives in South Carolina – “Why in the world did you want to come here?” This state was all I knew, and I just couldn’t imagine someone wanting to come here, especially from the glamorous California.

        Hartsville resident Brad Carr ended up here in South Carolina after spending a portion of his childhood in Louisiana. When he turned 18, Brad started baking as a hobby. Inspired by the idea of creating the perfect chocolate chip cookie, Brad had two other important ingredients at hand – the unconditional love and support of his parents, who were excited to see their son’s passion begin to develop. After working in local restaurants and bakeries to gain experience, Brad began to craft some pretty delectable recipes of his own. Brad spent some time in the University of South Carolina’s Culinary Arts Program, but it’s his work experience at these local businesses that have helped him mold his craft the most. “In the early days, I had friends that were chefs. They would give me feedback and help develop recipes. Those were fun times!”

        Brad decided to follow his heart and build a baking business. And so the magic began on Griggs Circle! “When I first had the idea of starting a bakery, we planned to feature a small variety of breads and pastries at various farmers’ markets around the Pee Dee. I would bake late at night and into the early mornings to have enough products to sell at the markets the next day.” Brad and his wife Kimberly soon transformed the den of their home into a packaging area. “It’s pretty crazy to look back and see how much stuff I baked in our little residential oven for those markets.” By October 2016, Brad and Kimberly opened Griggs Circle Bakery in Hartsville. “We decided to open a store for a few reasons. First, we were outgrowing our home. Second, we saw that there was a market for our type of bakery in Hartsville and we felt we had an adequate customer base to get it off the ground. And lastly, we needed to move into a commercial facility so we could produce a wider range of products.”

        The folks in Hartsville were eager to try Brad’s delicious items and he and Kimberly welcomed the success with open arms and humble hearts. He admits owning his own business has been a humbling experience, as he has learned to be grateful for any support received from family, friends, and the community of Hartsville. “I’m super grateful for the awesome people at Main Street who were instrumental in helping us get started. We have good relationships with the people in city management that support our dreams. The Chamber of Commerce also helps us out a ton.” According to Brad, there are a lot of awesome new things in Hartsville to experience and plenty to be proud of, as the city is constantly growing. However, what he and Kimberly cherish most is being a part of One Church Hartsville. “Those great people have been the most loving and supportive community we can ask for.”

        At Griggs Circle Bakery, you can find many delicious items to satisfy your sweet tooth. There are multiple different types of cookies to choose from (including gluten-free options), muffins, Danish, scones, Rice Krispies Treats, brownies, blondies, pies, cupcakes, cakes… The list goes on! All items are beautiful and eye catching, guaranteed to make your mouth water and stomach growl in anticipation. I can’t forget to mention the bread Brad and his team make. From Everything Bagels to focaccia, spinach artichoke, rolls and more, the only challenging aspect of walking in Griggs Circle Bakery is deciding which one to try! If you’re in the mood for something different, the bakery now offers lunch boxes that include your choice of sandwich, side, and a fresh baked cookie. They’ve also started a weekly bread subscription that bundles together different types of breads for a flat weekly rate. Out of all of the items he makes, however, Brad most enjoys creating custom birthday cakes. “When someone brings me an idea for a cake, such as a theme or a specific style, I love being able to create the cake they describe to me.” If you happen to visit their Facebook page, you’ll see not only the baked goods offered, but also pictures of the wonderful cakes this talented soul has created. And in case you were wondering, he has most definitely created the perfect chocolate chip cookie!

        In addition to running his own business and playing an active role in his church, Brad is also the father of Alice Belle and newborn Charlie. All of which he admits occasionally requires lots of prayer and faith! But thankfully, he has quite the support system to help him navigate through waters that can be bit rougher than others. “I have an awesome staff that are all rock stars. My wife is a champion; she’s an encouragement and a strong, amazing woman. I have a solid community of friends and family. We all go through good seasons and tough seasons. But, tough seasons don’t last forever and I feel that it’s how you come out of them that determine what kind of person you are.” His parents continue to inspire him today, as well as his in-laws. “They have all worked hard for everything they have. They value honesty, faith, and determination. They’re the kind of people I aspire to be one day.”

        I’ve known Brad for several months now and I’m blessed to not only have trained under his mentorship but to also call him a friend. I can honestly say he’s the sort of person I aspire to be one day. And while I asked him when we first met why he wanted to live in such a small town, I’ve realized now that it’s people like Brad who are the secret ingredient in the charm of these small towns. The type of people who are warm and welcoming, gracious and forgiving… And leave a little bit of love and light everywhere they go, making the community and the world a much “sweeter” place to be.

    Griggs Circle Bakery | 116 N 5th St, Hartsville | 843.309.9375 | griggscirclebakery.com

  • Sugar Hill Acres

    Sugar Hill Acres

        Sugar Hill Acres, located on Bethlehem Road in Hartsville, produces everything from cotton and wheat, to vegetables and even raise cattle. After retirement from college athletics in 2010, Tim Griggs took Sugar Hill Acres to a new level as he returned to his roots in the farming community. Today the farm provides locally sourced ingredients for many local restaurants and stores within the Pee Dee area making local foods more accessible to everyone!

        In 2003, Sugar Hill Acres, LLC was originally founded to purchase some farmland for a housing development. With a dream to move to the country, Tim and his family created a subdivision and named it Sugar Hill, located in the Byrdtown community. One-hundred and fifty acres of land was purchased. Fifty of those acres were divided into 9 individual lots. The family built their home on one of the lots and sold the others. The additional 100 acres around the property are farmed. A barn on the property, originally built in the 1930s, was restored to its former glory and is currently used to board horses, giving them acres to roam.

        After retirement from college athletics in 2010, Tim Griggs returned to his roots in the farming community and started farming with his brother, Bobby Griggs, his father, Robert Griggs, and his cousin, William Hendrix. With their individual farms, talents, knowledge, and shared resources, they can support one another. When first returning to the farming community, Tim took the initiative of expanding the cattle farm by 50 acres and expanded the herd to over 40 Black Angus cows with calves. During that time, he joined forces with six other local cattle farmers and signed a contract with Strauss beef, participating in the organic grass-fed beef program which is distributed across the United Sates. Participation in the program require the calves maintain a strict diet of only their mother’s milk, hay, grass, water, salt block, and approved minerals. They are never exposed to shots or steroids and are never tied up or restrained. All the cows on Sugar Hill Acres are free-range. Tim Griggs is also part of the South Carolina Cattlemen’s Association and Young Farmers Association.

        Three years ago, Tim also began a partnership with the Pee Dee Food Hub, which connects quality local foods from Pee Dee farmers to local customers. The Pee Dee Food Hub sells to local restaurants, hospitals, the Carolina foodshare program (CSA), churches, and other local businesses. Additionally, Food Lions in the area also began carrying vegetables from the partnership as long as the farmers are certified as using Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). With this partnership, Sugar Hill Acres has started to grow many new vegetables including broccoli, kale, eggplant, potatoes, and okra.

        Sugar Hill Acres makes locally produced foods more accessible to those in the Pee Dee area. Produce grown by Sugar Hill Acres can be found in many dishes at local restaurants including The Midnight Rooster (Hartsville), Miriam’s Kitchen (Hartsville/Byrdtown), Black Creek Bistro (Hartsville), and The South of Pearl (Darlington). They have also provided produce through the Food Hub to Town Hall Restaurant and The Red Bone Alley in Florence. You can find their produce at the Hartsville IGA on N 5th Street in Hartsville, Dixon’s Produce on 151, and occasionally the Hartsville and Camden Farmer’s Markets. They primarily sell produce at Griggs Grocery located across the street from the farm at 2557 Bethlehem Road. Summertime produce is almost over but be on the lookout for their Fall produce at Griggs Grocery which will include collard greens, turnip greens, and cabbage.

        Not only does Sugar Hill Acres provide locally sourced foods, they also encourage sustainable growing practices in which they want to share with others. They are planning a Farm Day this Fall for local school groups to visit and learn more about the farming experience.

    Sugar Hill Acres

    For more information, e-mail Tim at timgriggs855@gmail.com or Jessica, Marketing Director, at Jessica.t.griggs@gmail.com. To check out what Sugar Hill Acres is growing this Fall, follow them on Facebook:

    @Sugarhillacreshartsvillesc and Instagram:

    @sugar_hill_acres.

  • Painting Done Right

    Painting Done Right

        Russ and Wendy Fortier are both Francis Marion University graduates and have two sons, Tyler and Davis. They have lived in the Florence area for more than 30 years. Together they own Fresh Coat Florence, SC, which is a national franchise based in Cincinnati, OH. They purchased the franchise and brought it to Florence in December of 2017, then launched their business in April.

        Fresh Coat offers residential and commercial painting services including: interior and exterior painting, light commercial painting (offices, small stores, apartments), wood staining and finishing (deck, fence), popcorn ceiling removal, wallpaper removal, small drywall repair. and more. Russ and Wendy are committed to providing the best customer experience possible and leaving customers with a finished project they will love every day.

        Russ Fortier shares with us his expertise on “painting done right.”

    What basic supplies are needed for an indoor and outdoor DIY painting project?

        “The key is to purchase tools and paint that are quality products, not the cheapest you can find.  At a minimum you’ll want:

    •  Quality brushes (3 inch is a must, but smaller brushes can also be helpful). Make sure that the brush is designed for the paint you’ll be using.

    •  5-gallon bucket with paint screen

    •  Cut bucket (small bucket you can hold in your hand for cutting trim)

    •  Contractor grade roller handle (cheap rollers flex when applying paint and can leave streaks in your work)

    •  Sanding blocks or sandpaper (for prepping your surface and finishing out your application

    •  Drop cloths

    •  Plastic sheeting (cover your furniture and valuables)

    •  Roller handle extensions

    •  A four or six-foot step ladder”

    What are the different types of sheens and what surfaces are they best for? 

        “There are multiple descriptions in sheens across all paint products. You’ll want to consult with a local paint store representative for advice on sheens to use. Here are some to consider:

    •  Flat- for walls and ceilings. Flats hide imperfections better than other sheens.

    •  Satin, Matte, Egg-Shell- used commonly on walls. Each has a slightly higher sheen and is a personal choice of the home owner. Check also for durability in each paint sheen/brand. You may want to use something with a high “scrubbability” rating for bathrooms and kitchen walls.

    •  Semi-Gloss & Gloss – commonly used for trim, doors, windows and cabinets.”

    What steps should we take when searching for exterior paint before jumping in and painting our entire house?

        “If you are doing it yourself, definitely talk with your local paint store. I recommend them over the big box stores. They work with both paint contractors and homeowners and they are experts in their products. They’ll also be able to give you advice on cleaning and preparation for painting, optimal outside temperatures for applications, dry time (keep in mind you are going to be watching the weather on exterior projects), and other items such as the degree of mildew resistance in their product (in the south, mildew resistance is an important factor).”

    How can we identify if we have lead paint? What steps do we take with a lead renovation project that would be different from a regular project?

        “If your house was built before 1978, there is a chance you may have lead paint present. The farther back in time your house was built, the more likely it is that you have lead paint. In Florence, we encounter lead paint with most of the houses in the downtown district. Lead paint projects require a contractor who is lead certified. A certified lead contractor can test for lead prior to the beginning of your project. If lead is present, they are required to notify you of the presence of lead and take additional precautions on the project to contain the lead dust and lead paint according to EPA rules. You can test for lead paint yourself with a simple kit available online or in some paint stores. Lead paint renovation projects will cost more, because the contractor must contain the area where any lead paint surface is being disturbed, contain the dust, and perform the appropriate cleaning techniques to ensure that the area is no longer contaminated. There’s also the disposal of the lead paint materials that has to be done as well.”

    What qualities make a reliable paint contractor and why is it necessary to have one?

    Here are some basic things to ask for:

    •  How long has the contractor been in business? How much experience do the painters have?

    •  Does the contractor require money upfront? How much?

    •  Are consumable supplies and paint included in the price? If not, be prepared to have additional cost added to the project.

    •  Is this estimate firm? Meaning, is the price turnkey for the entire project.

    •  Is the contractor licensed, bonded and insured? Ask for copies of each of these before accepting any proposal. Check for coverage limits and make sure that the certificate of insurance dates are valid. This is for your protection if something should happen to any painter or your property. If they aren’t insured, your homeowner policy may be required to cover the loss.

    •  If your project involves disturbing lead base surfaces, request copies of the Lead Renovator Certificate and the firm’s lead certification

    •  Lastly, request references and check them out. Ask questions like: Does the contractor show up when scheduled? Did they complete the project in a reasonable timeframe (or as promised)? Did the crew respect and maintain the homeowner’s property? Were you satisfied with the outcome of the project?

  • Experiencing the World Through Adventure

    Experiencing the World Through Adventure

    This photo is taken by AllWinner’s v3-sdv

        The Boy Scouts of America (the BSA) is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States dedicated to training youth in responsible citizenship, character development, and self-reliance through participation in a wide range of outdoor and educational programs. Scouting revolves around adventure, family, fun, character, leadership, and more. The hands-on learning approach puts kids in the middle of the action to prepare them for life.

        Tim Fisher and Hunter Morgan are committed to helping the youth in the Florence area by leading as Scout Masters for Boy Scout Troop 477. Tim takes the role as Scout Master and Hunter, who is also part-owner of Naturally Outdoors, is the Assistant Scout Master. What they have realized is watching kids grow is one thing but leading them through the process is a new experience altogether. Tim and Hunter are helping the scouts experience the world through educational adventurous trips.

        Hunter has been taking people on trips across the country for the past 28 years. In previous years, he has taken the Boy Scout troops on high adventure trips including a 50-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, a canoe trip in Ontario, a hiking trip on the High Sierra in Eastern California, and experienced Philmont, Northern New Mexico, a premier scouting destination. Tim says, “Hunter is an amazing guy. I’m glad he has three sons that have been scouts. It has allowed Hunter to spend nine summers taking us on adventures.” Hunter shares, “It’s one thing to go with my peers and even individuals older than me, but it’s amazing to see these kids catch and cook their own food daily, living off of the land and enjoying the hikes. It’s the best! I’ve taken many groups out but seeing the kids adjust to their surroundings and enjoy it is a great feeling!”

        In July, Troop 477 explored the Popo Agie Wilderness in Central Wyoming which stretches out over 102,620 acres of rough land featuring high, jagged peaks, deep, narrow valleys and canyons, sheer granite walls, cirque basins, talus slopes, and perennial snowfields. There was a total of 20 in attendance including scout leaders Hunter and Tim, 4 fathers, 13 scouts (ages 12-17), and Hunter Morgan, Jr. (Hunter’s son). Hunter Jr. had just returned home from Alaska training with The National Outdoor Leadership School and was able to help guide the trip.

        The trip consisted of backpacking where they climbed more than seven miles and 2,500 feet. They camped in an Alpin Basin surrounded by a dozen lakes at just below 10,000 feet. Most kids earned their fishing and fly-fishing badges on the trip. “We fly fished nearly every day,” explains Tim. “It was fun watching the boys help cook what they caught. We would have 20 to 30 trout laid out and dressed to cook.” The nights were 40 degrees and the days were 70 degrees. The Wind River Range is made of three Wilderness areas encompassing over 750,000 acres. The Winds are in the Greater Yellowstone Eco system. The highest point in Wyoming is in the Winds, Granite Peak. Plenty of large mammals made an appearance including grizzlies, black bears, moose, elk, and wolves. “The beauty of the deer walking through the campsite at night is indescribable,” shares Tim.

        Volunteering with the Boy Scouts can be just as rewarding to the leaders as it is for the kids that participate. “Some of the boys were afraid they couldn’t do the trip,” says Tim. “It was great to watch them realize they could. It was quite a confidence builder.”

    To find more information on how to get involved with the Boy Scouts in your area, visit peedeescouts.us

    For 28 years, Naturally Outdoors has been outfitting folks in the Pee Dee area for wilderness treks & paddling adventures. For more information, call  (843) 665-1551.

    This photo is taken by AllWinner’s v3-sdv
    This photo is taken by AllWinner’s v3-sdv
  • Who Is William W. Harllee?

    Who Is William W. Harllee?

        The Town of Florence was founded in the late 1850’s. It was at the junction of the Northeastern Railroad, the Cheraw and Darlington Railroad, and the Wilmington and Manchester Railroad. The town was more likely a village and was located within Darlington County. The President of the Wilmington and Manchester Railroad was William Wallace Harllee. He named the town after his young daughter Florence.

        W.W. Harllee has been in the news recently due to the refusal of the Florence County Museum to accept a bronze statue of Mr. Harllee and his daughter, Florence. The statue was sculpted by noted Florence sculptor Alex Palkovich and for the most part has been privately funded.

        A few facts about the Harllees: William Wallace Harllee was born in 1812. He was elected a Major in the S.C. Militia in 1837 and promoted to Brigadier General of the militia in 1845. William W. Harllee was a distinguished lawyer. He was admitted to the S.C. Bar in 1834. He practiced law in Marion (Florence didn’t exist at the time) and was elected to the S.C. House of Representatives twice, once in 1836 and again in 1848. He was a successful businessman and railroad promoter. He was the president of the Wilmington and Manchester Railroad when it was built through what is now Florence in the 1850’s. The village of Florence first appears on maps in the 1850’s. The village was named for his young daughter Florence, although the family did not live there at that time. William Harllee was elected Lt. Governor of the State of S.C. in 1860. He was still a general in the S.C. Militia, but he was never a commissioned officer of the Confederate Army. (The Civil War was fought from 1861-1865.) To my knowledge, he never left the state during the war.  After the war, he continued his law practice and interest in politics. He was elected to the S.C. Senate from Marion in 1880 and was the president pro tem of the Senate. He was a political opponent of Ben Tillman and the Tillmanite movement and his participation in political matters ended with Tillman’s election as governor in 1890. He was elected the president of the S.C. Bar Association in 1885 and moved to the by-then prospering Town of Florence in 1889 to practice law. Florence Harllee was born in 1848 and never married; she lived with her family. When William Harllee died in 1897, Florence remained. She was a schoolteacher and lived in a home on the corner of Irby and Pine Streets until her death in 1927.

  • Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space

    Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space

        As autumn approaches with more appealing temperatures, it is a reminder to spruce up our outdoor living spaces for better enjoyment. Plants and lighting can make a major difference in how much time you spend in your yard. Scott Brokaw, owner of Innovative Landscape Design (ILD) in Florence, shares a few tips on how to make our spaces fit our lifestyles, and educates us on planting techniques and maintenance.

        Scott recommends the upcoming fall months as the best time to plant for the best results. “While some plants can tolerate the stress of summer planting, the majority of plants have most of their root development through the fall and winter. The longer they have in the ground to acclimate to their new environment, the better they will do,” explains Scott. Planting in the extreme heat of summer is generally not recommended because it places undue stress upon a plant. “We live in a world where people expect instant gratification, but waiting until fall will give you much better results in the long run.”

        Additionally, amending existing soil with compost prior to planting is very important. “We have seen excellent results when we add two to four inches of compost and till the entire planting area. You can also add compost directly to the planting hole. The plant itself is as important as the soil you place it in.” Scott explains that the number one cause of plant failure is planting too deep. He suggests digging a hole a minimum of twice the width of the root ball, but no deeper, and setting the top of the root ball even with ground level. This will allow better airflow and root growth. “I would rather see two inches of root ball out of the ground than see dirt on top of what came from the nursery. When a plant is at a nursery, it is usually living in optimal conditions. It has food, water, and air. When you take it away from that nursery and put it in the ground, you take at least one of those key elements away. Air. When a plant can’t breathe, it will suffer.” In addition to not adding soil on top of what comes from the nursery, watering the plant well after initial planting is key.

        Lastly, outdoor lighting can make a major difference in the appearance and functionality of outdoor spaces and is one of Scott’s favorite parts of his business. Scott explains, “There is much more to it than just pointing light at a house. Lighting is meant to provide security, safety, and beauty. When done correctly you can achieve all three.” He explains that the type of fixture, lamp selection, and the location are all crucial to good lighting. He also suggests that a professional install it. “Aside from what you see, correct installation will ensure a safe system that will last a long time,” says Scott. “A lot of what you can buy at retailers isn’t meant to last more than a few years at best. We almost exclusively use CAST Landscape Lighting product. CAST Manufactures solid bronze fixtures that carry a Lifetime Warranty. I have systems dating back to 2003 that are operating as well as the day they were installed.”

        ILD has served the Florence area for over 10 years and specializes in landscape design, irrigation, lighting, hardscapes, water features and maintenance. If you want your dream yard or landscape, they can bring it to life! Scott explains that both form and function are qualities that make a great outdoor space. “Just like people, every space is different,” says Scott. “What someone wants out of a space is pivotal in determining exactly what makes a space great.” ILD works with each individual customer to make their vision a reality and strives to provide creative solutions and high-quality professional service. Scott’s fundamentals are simple and have grown the company to what it is today. He believes in hard work, honesty, and doing things for the right reasons.

    Scott may be reached at 843.230.1036.

  • Bringing the Freshest Ingredients to the Table in Creative & Unique Ways

    Bringing the Freshest Ingredients to the Table in Creative & Unique Ways

        It’s becoming more than a trend to know what we’re eating, better a necessity. South Carolina is lucky to have all-natural farms across the state able to provide free range meats and organic produce to consumers. Not only in our homes are labels being read, but restaurants have also become conscious shoppers when preparing menus. A Columbia, South Carolina native, Vanessa Driscoll Bialobreski, has introduced a business that is bringing farms and local chefs together to offer unique experiences while dining on some of the state’s finest ingredients, Farm to Table Event Co.

        “The Farm to Table mission is to bring together the community through agri-tourism, local food and local chefs who are experts in bringing the freshest ingredients to the table in creative and unique ways,” says Bialobreski. The event company explores the city of Columbia in search for the perfect locations to set tables. City Roots Farm, the only in-town, local, sustainable organic farm in SC, has become a favorite spot for hosting events such as: the monthly Harvest Dinner series, Butcher Paper Dinners, Annual Pig and Oyster Roast, and Cream of the Crop Beer Festival. Along with hosting events, Farm to Table offers a full service catering and events production where they take care of all of the details so you and your guests can simply “sit back and enjoy the show.”

        Guests at events hosted by Farm to Table are seated at a single long table to encourage conversation amongst strangers. Reservations are limited so that patrons have an opportunity to meet the farmers and chefs behind the creative cuisine.

    Upcoming Events:

    September 6 – Eddie Russel Bourbon Dinner

    September 7 – Pregame Oktoberfest

    September 17 – September Harvest Dinner

    October 1 – October Harvest Dinner

    October 18 – The Great American Whiskey Fair

    October 26 – Bubble Q

    November 5 – November Harvest Dinner

    November 14 – Farm to Trunk

    December 13 – December Harvest Dinner

    To find your place at the table, visit www.farmtotableeventco.com.

  • Protecting Your Home

    Protecting Your Home

        One of the largest investments we make in our lifetime is our home. At our Agency, we like to help our homebuyers understand the many options available with their homeowner’s policy. Especially this time of year there are hurricanes, hail storms, all sorts of weather that can affect our homes in many ways. In addition, we are outside much more and enjoying outdoor activities. These are some questions that we answer for our clients on a daily basis.

        This time of year, we receive many questions about wind and hail coverage and flood coverage. Many homeowner’s policies have separate wind and hail deductibles. This means that in the event of a wind or hail claim the deductible is higher than it would be for another type of claim. For example, a $200,000 policy with 1% wind hail deductible is a $2,000 deductible in the event of a wind claim, whereas a fire claim would have the lower deductible. This is a way for policy holders to save money on the homeowner premium because they incur a larger out of pocket expense in the event of a wind or hail claim.

        As you make improvements to your home, make a file and save your receipts. The most common upgrades that can impact your insurance premium are your roof, heating and cooling, plumbing upgrades, and electrical upgrades. These improvements can help lower your cost as they mean that you are caring for and maintaining your home. Many times, carriers look for evidence of pride of ownership. A well-maintained home is much easier to cover than one that has been neglected. One thing that clients forget to provide their agent is the proof of upgrade even after a claim. So, for example there is a wind claim and the roof is replaced. The claim is paid and closed. Take the next step and send the receipt to your agent. Then you will be assured that your premium is rating correctly for that improvement.

    We always get questions about pools. These are acceptable by most carriers. They do require a four-foot-high fence with a locking gate. This is as much for your protection as the carrier. A pool is attractive in so many ways, but you need to protect yourself against uninvited guests (both the two legged and the four-legged kind). The liability of an unfenced pool is unacceptable for almost all homeowner’s carriers. Accidental drownings peak during summer months and fencing doesn’t protect you from that but it certainly provides more security and peace of mind for you the owner.

        As we get closer to the wonderful fall weather, trees begin to shed and leaves and pine straw collect on our roofs and gutters. The additional weight can contribute to many issues. The weight of leaves and pine straw on your roof increases with each rain storm. As debris collects on the roof and becomes wet, the pine straw and leaves adhere to the roof and can cause possible leaking and damage. Make sure to clean your gutters properly and blow any debris from your roof. This can prevent unnecessary roof damage and keeps your home well maintained.

        As you travel this fall, remember that making your home appear to be occupied is a wonderful deterrent for crime. Have your neighbor collect your mail and newspapers. Set your lights up on a timer. Outside lighting that illuminates your property is a clever upgrade to security. These are some of the items that can help keep you and your home safe this fall.

        

    2405 2nd Loop Rd, Florence 843.665.7992

    220 W Home Ave, Hartsville  843.332.9802

    305 E Broad St, Hemmingway 843.558.7761

    505 N Longstreet St, Kingstree 843.355.6673

    www.hodgeethridgeagency.com

  • Buying a Home

    Buying a Home

    Homeownership is a big investment, decision, and responsibility.

        The process may appear complex at first, but the more you know about it, the better your experience will be.  A REALTOR® can help guide you throughout the entire process in order to make smart decisions before and after you buy. Palmetto Realty shares with us the value in working with a REALTOR® during your home buying process.

    The Importance of Having a REALTOR® in the Home Buying Process

    •  REALTORS® are members of the Pee Dee REALTORS® Association, South Carolina REALTORS® Association, and National Association of REALTORS®

    •  Adhere to a Strict Code of Ethics, professionalism & honesty

    •  Provide professional responsibilities: Accountability, Confidentiality, Disclosure, Loyalty, and Obedience.

    •  Knowledgeable and Experienced with the real estate market

    •  Provide buyers with a list of bank lenders and mortgage professionals to assist buyers with their pre-approval and mortgage decisions.

    •  Discuss with buyers their specific interest and Search the Market for the best properties for the buyer.

    •  Show buyers the properties of their interest…Buyers don’t need multiple agents for this, their REALTOR® can show them ALL LISTINGS ON THE MARKET.

    •  Prepare Purchase Agreement to safeguard buyers

    •  Present and Negotiate all terms on behalf of buyer’s best interest.

    •  Order Inspections and negotiate repairs

    •  Work with attorney and bank lenders throughout the closing on the buyer’s behalf throughout the home buying process.

    •  Attend a walk through with the buyers on the purchasing property and attend closing with buyers

    •  As we say at Palmetto Realty “Service Beyond the Sale”, we offer any assistance in any other home-related services after closing is final.

        Be sure to take advantage of the knowledge, experience, and professionalism of a REALTOR®.

    125 North 5th Street, Hartsville | scpalmettorealty.com | (843) 917-0274

  • TEDxEvansStreet

    TEDxEvansStreet

        TEDxEvansStreet is excited to be back for its second event on Thursday, October 4, 10 AM to 4 PM, at the Florence Little Theatre, Florence, SC. 

        “We are excited to be back to showcase thought leaders who are change agents in the Greater Florence County area,” said Pete Mazzaroni, TEDxEvansStreet public relations/marketing communications. “Last year we had capacity attendance, and with even greater speakers and more diverse talks for 2018, we are expecting the same.”

        TEDxEvansStreet is an all-day independently organized TED event experience dedicated to spreading ideas by blending innovation, insight, and storytelling. The experience collectively ignites the Florence community’s commitment to lifelong learning and spark positive change.  In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience.  These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event.

        This year’s theme is “Change Agents.”  One cannot help but think there is nothing new in the world, but can only become different, thus giving us change. A change agent makes a difference in the status quo.

       For more information and to see talks from 2017, visit www.tedxevansstreet.org.