Category: Lifestyle

story by Zach Hughes

     It is no surprise that South Carolina is home to many thriving rivers. Each of them different than the next. Many of you drive over some of the more well-known rivers as you travel throughout the state. I remember growing up driving over the Pee Dee rivers headed towards the beach and I always imagined what it would be like to cruise down the river on a boat or a kayak.

     Here recently, I decided to push my experiences further and find a new place to try to paddle. My friends at Naturally Outdoors insisted that I needed to try paddling the Little Pee Dee River. They mentioned that they consider it one of the more beautiful rivers in our state and that it may not get enough credit. I will admit, when I had the chance to finally paddle it, I was not disappointed.

     One Sunday, not long after giving it some consideration, I was invited to join a Boy Scout troop paddle down the Little Pee Dee. Having started our drive down there as a group, the road leading there was just as relaxing. Taking Old River Road, we would make our way towards Brittons Neck. That was where we launched into the river.

     As soon as we made our way towards the landing, I could tell this would be a paddle nothing like any of my other paddling trips. At this point, in front of the landing, there was a small island with lush green cypress trees which cast a shadow over the water in between us and the main channel of the river. We launched into the water and began paddling around what I have come to know as Ducks Island. I was immediately mesmerized by how beautiful the water was. A dark cool and somewhat clear river, the water on the surface was clear as can be but remained a smooth black color as a whole. I was also very enchanted by the lush green trees that covered the river bank. From the first turn to the last, each bend of the river presented a new set of thick cypress and oak trees to fill your soul with greenery.

     When the river is lower, there is no shortage of exposed white sandy beaches as well to stop and enjoy a snack. Many of them have very distinct overhanging trees that stretch over the water, reaching for sunlight. Often times too, the water below the beach can be very shallow, turning the water to a dark sweet tea color. In these shallow areas, it is very distinct how the current of the river turns the sedimentary sand into waves of what looks like an underwater desert of dunes. The peaks of these dunes can sometimes be shallow enough to stop your boat.

     Despite the number of beaches and shallow areas, the majority of the river remains a deep black channel of moving water. All the while some sections feel as if the water is just standing still to reveal a glass smooth reflection of the surrounding trees.

    I remember specifically on one of my more recent trips, that when we arrived at one of the forks in the river, the trees opened up to an area that reminded me more of a lake. The windswept through the wide-open section, rippling the water. All the while, there was a group of boaters, hanging out on a sandbar. Very reminiscent of my years growing up at the lake.

    For someone who grew up going to the lake, I feel right at home on the river. I feel much more secluded, and it is very much less busy. One of the things I can say about kayaking, especially this river, is that there never seems to be enough turns and stretches of river to satisfy my thirst for the water. Who knew that a river could calm your soul so well, and make you feel at home. Each time I have returned to the Little Pee Dee, each turn surprises me with new changes.

story by Kayla Jebaily-Adams / photos by Erin Daniel

“Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth”

– Shirley Chisholm, U.S. Congresswoman, and Delta Sigma Theta Inc. Sorority Sister

    Patricia “Pat” Singleton Parr considers service to be a way of life. A board member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee since 2016 and a longtime donor, she has engulfed herself in helping children. Not only is she Secretary of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area’s board, she is also Chair of the Boys & Girls Club’s Champions for Youth Event, the lead for the Boys & Girls Club board annual meeting, the coordinator for the Florence Boys & Girls Club Teen Honor Roll Dinner, and facilitates the Florence Boys & Girls Club’s cooking class. She enjoys organizing events and taking part in hands-on activities with the members. The cooking class she holds for members takes place every week during the school year. Members learn how to cook and bake a variety of dishes, including, mini-pizzas, mini-corndogs, apple pie, breakfast food, smoothies, cupcakes, and holiday-themed foods to name a few. Ms. Parr also teaches them about choosing healthy food options and the benefits of having a well-rounded diet. Club members enjoy being around Ms. Parr’s warm, compassionate demeanor, and her cooking class is always well attended.

    Ms. Parr chose to work with the Boys & Girls Club after she retired as an assistant solicitor for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Office of Solicitor. She looked for places where there was the greatest need in the community, and she could be involved in hands-on work. She had always been interested in working with the Boys & Girls Club, as she was a big supporter of the work and mission of the organization. When she saw an opportunity to help children who need direction, she took it, accepting the role of a board member. Since then, along with conducting the cooking class, she has been instrumental in the organization of multiple events and even brought back the Teen Honor Roll Dinner at the Florence BGC, where teen honor roll students are recognized for their academic achievements at a dinner with board members. The organization considers themselves lucky to have such a strong advocate for children on their side. Her compassion, intelligence, and tenacity are strong qualities that shine through in her work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area. Ms. Parr believes it is important for African American children to see positive African American adults as role models. She is a strong role model for members at the Club, particularly young girls who attend her cooking classes.

    Pat Parr, has been a fierce advocate for children and her community for many years. Since moving to Florence from Columbia in 1984 following her graduation from law school at the University of South Carolina, she has volunteered with multiple organizations providing services to children, including Jack and Jill of America Incorporated, Pee Dee Coalition against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Junior League of Florence, and Florence School District One. Her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., has taken on service projects to help the community, particularly children, as well. She was also an active “room mom” for her children’s classes at All Saints Episcopal Day School and Florence District 1

    Schools as well as serving as APT officers and School Improvement Councils. She hopes to continue serving her community in different capacities. As Ms. Parr told her children as they were growing up, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” She believes God put her on Earth for a reason. Even through great trials in life, such as major illnesses, her dedication to service and her life’s purpose has not wavered. She will continue to make a difference in her community for the better. The Pee Dee Area is lucky to have a service-minded individual like Ms. Parr working to make life better for those who live here.

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area | 843-662-1142 | bgcpda.org

story by Allie Roark

     If you are a teacher like me, you have probably been spending your last several weeks of summer planning for a new school year by spending hours on Pinterest, working in your classroom, and working on new lesson plans. I don’t know about you, but this summer flew by. I am not ready to set my 4:30 a.m. alarm clock again. This feeling can be quite similar to the “Sunday scary’s” except a little more intense.

     In the past, I spent the majority of my time worrying about my classroom being ready when I wasn’t even concerned about being mentally ready. What good will a pretty classroom do if there is an unorganized or insane teacher in charge of it? I have decided to begin a fresh, new school year with a few new strategies to help make the Sundays less scary, the school days more purposeful, and my mindless crowded. These tips can easily be modified to help any working gal in their profession. So if you’re not a teacher, you’re still welcome to take and implement what sounds good to you.

Have a positive mindset.

     Being a teacher is hard. We are expected to meet a lot of demands every minute, hour, day, and week. Most of the time it seems expected, and we don’t feel appreciated. It can leave you feeling drained and empty. Friend, it’s impossible to pour from a cup that’s empty. Fill your cup up. Be intentional with your “me time.” Whether it’s taking bubble baths, reading for pleasure, listening to worship music, journaling, or exercising – find the time to do it. I choose to set an alarm at 4:30 a.m. to read my bible and go to the gym. It’s time that we stop feeling guilty for living our lives outside of work. Set a time to stop answering emails. In fact, don’t even check them. They will be there in the morning. You’ve had a long day, and you deserve some downtime with yourself and your family. It’s time to turn the teacher off and be you again.

     Another way to keep a positive mindset is to start each day with a grateful heart. Write out ten things that you are grateful for each morning. You are cheating if you are constantly using “your house, car, job, husband, and kids” as your answers. What little things made you happy the day before? This tip seems easy, but it does force us to think about what’s going right in our lives instead of what’s going wrong.

     I have also found it helpful to find a positive teacher bestie. It’s inevitable to not complain, but find someone that can remind you of the happy during the disappointments. Not only can we learn from each other, but we can cheer each other on in the hallways. We never get tired of compliments or appreciation. It isn’t a contest after all. 

Create a routine.

     Raise your hand if you hate mornings (raises hand). The first 30 minutes of every day are crucial. Do you have a routine for when the students enter the room? Are they constantly coming up to your desk to ask you something? Are you having to ask them for their homework every morning? Did that one student forget to make his lunch choice again? These things seem minimal, but when they all happen at once, you find yourself playing catch up for the next hour. Plan out your procedures for how you want things done and use the first two weeks to make sure your students follow through with it. Students should walk in the room knowing exactly what they need to be doing. While they are doing their assigned work, go ahead and answer those emails, send in the lunch count and attendance, take a sip of your coffee, and take a deep breath.   

Be organized.

     Some would probably say that I take this to the extreme, but to each its own, right? I wouldn’t say that I am OCD in all areas of life, but my workspace is something that I like to feel in control of. Misplacing something or having to stop a lesson to look for something seriously can start a morning off on a stressful foot. Why? Well, kids. As soon as you lose their attention, it’s a tough job getting them back on track. I invested in the cheap bins from Target or Walmart that usually come in a pack of five for $5 and seriously organize it all. I stick on cute labels to help me locate the bin in a quick manner, and it has been a game-changer. Are you a teacher with stacks of papers on your desk?

Be a happy planner.

     If you read the article last month, you will see this same tip. That’s how much I believe in it. You’ve got to plan. Based on my enneagram number, I am the achiever. Planning is my thing. I don’t know why, but I get so excited to check off the tasks on the to-do list or mark something as “done” in my planner. It’s rare for teachers to leave by three in the afternoon, or leave without any papers to grade or lessons to plan. This is something that I am going to take very seriously this year. Each Sunday, I plan to spend maybe 30 to 45 minutes planning out each upcoming week. During the week, I seem to forget to be intentional and send home notes, make positive phone calls home, check my email, or schedule a meeting with a parent. I am probably one of the worst to check my email and respond right away. Even worse than I am at texting, and that’s pretty bad. If your schedule rarely stays the same week to week, you can adjust and plan accordingly. Every evening shouldn’t be spent marking papers, looking for lessons on Teachers Pay Teachers, or answering emails. Assign days for those tasks and stick to it. This action plan will work if you write it out.

    August doesn’t have to be scary. We love our jobs. Just remember a few months in how important YOU are. We do our best when our cup is full, so let’s be sure to keep it full for the next school year.

While blogging has been relevant for many years, a lot of people still just don’t quite get it. Tell us a little bit about blogging in general and why it is so popular today.

    “By definition, a blog is a website that covers a particular topic that is regularly updated by an individual. We live in a world of instant gratification, so bloggers offer specialized information on an array of topics for others to glean inspiration and learn from with the click of a button. For me, I took a topic I’m passionate about and highlight information I feel may be helpful to others as it pertains to style.”

Tell us about you and what inspired you to start blogging.

    “I have always had an affinity for style. I draw inspiration from those who raised me, each bearing their own individual style. My mom loves bold, bright colors, while my sister prefers darker tones. My Poppy is never shy to splurge, while my Mimi is forever looking for a bargain. Because of these contrasting influences, I have never truly fit into a style ‘box.’ I’ve always tested the boundaries of style and though I participate in and appreciate trends, I’ve never let them dictate my taste. I know there are others out there who can relate, so I created The Hunt for Style as a space where I encourage all individuals to embrace their own personal style. I strive to create looks that are chic yet attainable, and love to mix a splurge with a steal! And since my style doesn’t fit in one category, there’s a little something for everyone.”

With thousands of blogs out there, many may say that blogging is an “oversaturated market.” What makes your blog unique?

    “First and foremost, I strive to keep it ‘real.’ Real women, real bodies, real, attainable style. Because I strive to keep my social media in line with the blog, it can often times turn into a highlight reel—and I’m far too open for that. So every once in a while, you’ll catch a ‘raw’ moment to keep things balanced because things are rarely as stylish as they seem!

    “Being a Hartsville native, I feel that I also have unique inside perspective on our town. I love this town and it brings me so much joy to highlight its growth in my blog. I hope to convey a homey Hartsville feel through my website, even when the town isn’t the topic.”

Many say that the blogging world never sleeps! Tell us about your normal daily routine.

    “It’s so true! The internet is an ever-changing world, and to be successful, you have to be consistent! I am constantly creating content for the website and social media! I definitely consider the blog a job. It requires so much time and effort on my part, and because I ‘report’ to myself, I have to practice a lot of discipline when it comes to scheduling, shooting looks, meeting with local businesses, etc. I’m still getting a feel for what ‘normal’ is going to look like in my blogging-sphere. As far as an income goes, the blog will hopefully be a lucrative source of income at some point, but right now I’m just building out her platform and sewing seeds!”

What is one thing you wish you knew before you started blogging?

    “How incredibly supportive our community would be! I have wanted to launch a blog for several years, but my pride and fear kept me from taking the plunge. I have felt so much love and support from friends and even complete strangers—makes all that fear seem insignificant.”

www.thehuntforstyle.com

Bringing Awareness to the Importance of Mentoring

story by Heather Page

    Where we come from and where we grow up have a lasting impression on our lives. While some force those memories to the very back of their minds, others take what they learned through those early experiences and attempt to make a difference for the youth following behind them. This is certainly the case for four 1984 Marion High School graduates – Christopher Shelvin, Keith Fore, John Grice, and Rev. Terry Davis. In 2016, the old friends devised a plan that allowed them to give back to the community that raised them by offering mentoring programs to at-risk youth through The Fox84 Initiative for Boys.

    Sticking to their roots, their goal with The Fox84 was to establish a program focused around Marion County boys to help promote healthy friendships, build strong interpersonal skills and inspire hope for a brighter future. Through partnerships with local schools, businesses, and the juvenile court system, the 501c3 nonprofit is dedicated to providing positive adult role models who mentor and empower teens, equip adults and strengthen communities. Co-founder Christoper Shelvin also serves as the President and believes, “Mentoring, at its core, assures young people that there is someone who cares about them, assures that they are not alone in dealing with day-to-day challenges, and makes them feel like they matter.”

    A generous portion of The Fox84’s focus is spent teaching these young men basic skills that they may not learn in their current living conditions, like tying a tie, shaking hands, or the appropriate way to dress for job interviews. In addition, they take these boys on once in a lifetime adventures to learn more about life outside of their surroundings. In 2018, The Fox84 took ten boys to Washington, DC where they explored the White House, toured Howard University, stood at the podium of the Pentagon, plus many other unforgettable experiences that will have a positive influence on their futures.

    Throughout the year, The Fox84 team visits Marion County schools for several 4-day mentoring sessions. With one out of every three young persons missing out on a mentor, The Fox84 Initiative for Boys is imperative. During those early years of finding yourself, it’s important to have a role model, someone who can act as your cheerleader as well as a policy enforcer, and even more as a friend. The Fox84’s vision includes, “boys and young men should be taught the true meaning of responsibility at an early age so that when they grow, they will act with respect, honor, and integrity, and the community as a whole will prosper.” Based on several studies, the advantages of mentors includes better class attendance, college enrollment, lower use of drugs and alcohol, and less likely to engage in violence. (Big Brothers Big Sisters; The Mentoring Effect, 2014; The Role of Risk, 2013)

    Each year, The Fox84 holds two large fundraising events – the 5K Fun Run/Walk held in May and a Fish Fry in January. These events along with local sponsors help fund future exploration trips for the boys. This fall The Fox84 team looks forward to taking 8 ninth grade students and 10 eighth grade students to New York. Donations and volunteers are always needed in order to increase The Fox84’s ability to provide quality, life-changing mentoring relationships for at-risk youth.

 

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

To learn more about The Fox84 Initiative for Boys or to become active within the organization, visit thefox84initiative.

photography and story by Rebecca Giese

    Something about the treasure hunt makes walking in the hot sun buying unique gifts, the freshest vegetables and vintage finds worth it. Since I was a kid, I remember going with my parents almost every weekend, to get vegetables and the occasional “rare” Beanie Baby with the five dollars I had for the occasion. After roughly two decades of visiting flea markets and farmers markets alike, I have perfected the art of the flea market/farmers market hunt.

    *While sometimes the terms Farmers Market and Flea Market can be interchangeable for the location, they are technically two different scenarios. A Flea Market is defined as a market for vendors to sell pre-owned goods, whereas a Farmers Market is a space for farmers and artisans to sell directly to the consumers.*

    It may seem obvious, but one should dress comfortably when planning a visit to a flea or farmer’s market. Usually, if not always, parking is a hike so you will be walking quite a bit. Plan on wearing sneakers or shoe that are comfortable. Also, pro tip, check out where the market is located online before heading out. Many flea markets, especially, are in open fields and that mud and clay will destroy your favorite pair of sneakers and unless you love dirt between your toes avoid sandals.

    Now that you have your outfit planned out, what should you carry? I suggest to travel light, I am notoriously a bag lady, but when heading to flea or farmers markets I try to avoid a muti-bag situation, it gets tiresome and annoying very quick. If you know you will be getting tons of produce and treasures, you should invest in a rolling cart. They make life so much easier plus fewer trips to the car. Some are simple wire baskets on wheels, while others have multiple levels and pockets, which are great to double for snacks and as a purse. The cart gives me flashbacks of middle school rolling backpacks, but we are treasure hunting not trying to make a fashion statement. Lastly, and super obvious, but I would carry cash. Many vendors take cards now but having cash helps when negotiating the price on that wingback chair you have your eyes on. Credit card systems charge the vendor for the transaction so you may be able to get a least %10 off when paying in cash at flea markets. Please note this trick usually doesn’t work at farmers markets with fresh and artisan products, but everyone loves cash over dealing with that little dongle.

    Now speaking of that wingback chair, I do have some tips to finding quality treasures while at flea markets. Always check the condition and get up close a personal with the piece. On most chairs, tables, and benches the manufacturers market will be underneath, for dressers, you can find the mark sometimes on the back or in the drawer. This marking will help you find out who, when, and where about the piece, which is essential if you want to restore it to its previous glory or find the actual rarity/value of the piece. If you are looking for the perfect piece to flip, hello chalk painters, then marks don’t matter, but the overall condition does. Look all over for any water damage, check the joints and legs for stability, also check to see if for warped wood or peeling and smell it. Yes, if it smells like smoke, it will be a beast to prep and paint, which is a hard pass for us each time. If you are curious if it is a reproduction or truly old, turn the piece over and check how it is put together. Phillip head screws weren’t used until post-WWII so the piece can be vintage, but if it looks primitive and turn-of-the-century with Phillips head screws, then it is a reproduction. Also, check for nicks and cuts in the wood on the bottom and under the drawers, circular saws weren’t used until the 1860s and reproductions are known to be mass produced with perfect edges using circular saws. There a lot of educational materials out there on the history of furniture and collectibles so if you are on the hunt for something, in particular,  do your research first to make sure you don’t buy a dupe or pay too much.

    Overall enjoy the hunt, you never know what you will find, maybe homemade lavender soap, local honey or a midcentury buffet you just never know!

 

Check out these Pee Dee area Farmers Market locations:

City Center Farmers Market, Saturdays

Florence Flea Market, Saturdays, and Sundays

Hartsville Farmers Market, June 8th and every 2nd Saturday, April- December

Pee Dee  State Farmers Market, Monday-Saturday

 

Some day-trip options around South Carolina:

Barnyard Flea Market Lexington, Saturday, and Sundays

Blythewood Farmers Market, Wednesdays

Clemson Sandhill Farmers Market, Tuesdays

Coastal Carolina Flea Market, Saturdays, and Sundays

Goose Creek Farmers Market, Saturdays March – December

Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market, Tuesday – Sunday

North Myrtle Beach Flea Market, Friday – Sunday

The Mount Pleasant Farmers Market, Tuesdays afternoons

 

What’s on My Radar for June?

Honestly Farmer and Flea Markets! I love finding exploring new areas and going to markets before the weather gets too unbearably hot.

Finding the perfect Father’s Day Gift, if your dad likes steaks check out Bigs Meats or if he is obsessed with fishing book him a fishing trip out of Murrells Inlet.

Art in the Park June 29th & 30th in Myrtle Beach, check out local artisans and unique pieces of art during a trip to the beach!

Camp Pee Dee Pride Celebrates 23 Years with Wayne Howard

photography by Erin Daniel

    It’s easy to say that most of us carry a fond camp memory. The new friends you make, the interesting places you go, and new experiences you have, play a big role in the fun times had. However, the people orchestrating the weeklong events – the camp counselors – are the founding factor of those great memories. The Florence County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) celebrates it’s 23rd annual Camp Pee Dee Pride this summer and its success is due mostly in part to the hardworking individuals that spend their summer making dreams come true for the children in our community.

    Captain Wayne Howard has operated the free summer camp for the last 23 years. What began as a career in law enforcement 43 years ago easily transitioned into a full-time, special projects position with the FCSO. After working in the narcotics department and seeing the environments kids face, Wayne began forming Camp Pee Dee Pride to introduce positive alternatives to these kid’s lives. Captain Wayne’s passion for the kids made him the perfect person to lead the camp.

    Not only do the kids love Wayne, but the counselors also do too! Sarah Borck, a four-year camp counselor, says, “Captain Wayne is literally the best boss ever.” She goes on to tell about one of her favorite memories with Wayne that happened on her first day of camp. “He was super inviting and jumped right into joking around; he made Camp Pee Dee Pride what it is today!” Jasmine Watson, eight-year camp counselor, and Allie Roark, nine-year camp counselor, agree that Wayne is the original creator of all things fun at Camp Pee Dee Pride. Allie adds, “Captain Wayne has worked extremely hard to make these camps possible. I consider myself lucky to get to work with Wayne and watch him pour out his heart and soul into a camp that he created many years ago.”

    What began for Wayne as a meager attempt to provide children with a small escape from their daily lives has become a primary influence in their futures. Jasmine has witnessed this influence first hand working with the kids. “One of my favorite memories was on our weekly visit to Wild, Water & Wheels. I was riding on a slide with a camper when she looked at me and said, ‘This is the best day of my life! I’ve never been anywhere like this before.’” Jasmine was also told by a camper as they were eating at the Francis Marion University cafeteria, “This is like a feast. This is the most food I’ve ever seen!” These are the type of memories Captain Wayne and his group of counselors take pride in making for their campers, one’s that have a lasting effect.

    As summer approaches, Wayne and his counselors look forward to meeting new kids, seeing returning campers, and making new memories. Our community has been honored to have such a humble, loving and compassionate group to guide our children’s future. We hope for many years to come!

 

 

“Wayne and the counselors are always so nice! I love going to Wild, Water & Wheels and making new friends. Camp Pee Dee Pride is the highlight of my summer!” -Caroline H.

L to R: Kingsley Wilson, Colton Wilson, Justin Hendrick Caroline Hendrick, Rylan Hendrick, pictured with Wayne

A ‘Sun-Kissed’ Look Without the Sun

story by Jordan Pupa | photography provided by COAST

    The summer months are approaching and some of us will sparkle in the light like Edward Cullen from Twilight the first time we put on a bathing suit this year! Of course, we will be looking for a golden glow fix to quick-start our summer tan. When sunless tanning comes to mind, many people usually consider spray tans versus tanning beds. The truth is, UV rays emitted by tanning beds are far from being a risk-free option and can be linked to melanoma development. Hundreds of thousands of people are diagnosed with melanoma each year. In fact, Johnna Hall, owner of COAST on Carolina in Hartsville, was one of those people. Not only can you leave her surf shop “summer ready” with new items and apparel, but you can also walk away with a beautiful, safe spray tan!

    At COAST, Johnna only uses Norvell solution, which is the leading formula for spray tanning in the U.S. “I’ve made a habit out of showing people the scar on the back of my arm when they tell me they’re going to lay in the tanning bed,” says Johnna. “I’m from Florida, grew up on the water, and it was nothing to come home from school, jump in the boat, and enjoy the rest of the daylight hours out with friends. Laying in the tanning bed was also a way of life. Spray tanning is, hands down, the safe option, and when applied properly, gives you the most beautiful, natural glow.” Spray tanning not only is a safe option compared to a tanning bed but also provides almost instant color with a short appointment time. You also have more control over the color and shade of your tan.

    Spray tans can last anywhere from 7-10 days, depending on aftercare. To make the most out of your spray tan, Johnna suggests exfoliating, shaving, and/or waxing at least a day in advance. When showering after a spray tan, is suggested to not use any sort of exfoliating loofa and to air dry or pat yourself dry. “Stay moisturized,” explains Johnna, “Avoid Dove products prior to your tan appointment, which can leave a film on your body that has proven to cause a spray tan to turn out uneven or blotchy.”

    Many people still believe spray tans will result in an unnatural, uneven, or orange tan. However, with modern advances in spray tanning today and proper care, it is rare you will run into that issue today. “Spray tan solutions have come a long way since the Mystic booth tan days which was pretty horrific most of the time,” explains Johnna. “I hear it all the time, the fear of the spray tan, and they’re all returning, obsessed spray tan queens!”

    COAST offers two different types of solutions, the one-hour solution and regular. One-hour is a rapid formula-based solution that gives you the opportunity to get a same-day spray tan. It is a great option for those who don’t want to wait 8 hours for the regular to set before showering. Spray tan pricing at COAST is $40 for one hour and $25 for regular.

    It’s important to remember that a spray tan will offer no protection from the sun. As your spray tan fades, your real tan will develop if you’re out in the sun. This means that if you have been in hibernation during winter and you finally run away on a cruise vacation to the Caribbean, your skin (even though it looks a bronzed and beautiful with your spray tan) is going to react to the sun like it hasn’t seen it in a long time. It is highly recommended to still wear sunblock during sun exposure when you have a spray tan.

COAST on Carolina

124 E. Carolina Ave., Hartsville (843) 951-0005

Mon-Fri: 11am-6pm | Sat: 11am-3pm

Message COAST on Carolina on Instagram (@coastoncarolina) or Facebook (@coastoncarolina2) to schedule a spray tan appointment today!

story by Bryan Holt

    Spring is finally here! Took a little longer this year for it to arrive, but it is here and now we can grill out for about a month. After that, it’ll get too hot and we will all complain about that too. This will be my last article until September, so I figured that I would show you some wines to get you through the hot months that are coming, and I’ll see you again in the fall. Thank you all for reading these articles and thank you to everyone who braved the mini-hurricane that showed up on April 12th and came to the Down Town Sip and Stroll. We are already working to make next years better, with a lot more countries and wine areas coming into the fold.

Summer Wine List

1- AMBLE + CHASE Rosé – This is a Provence, France rosé that comes in a can…yes, a can. So, whether you’re getting ready for a day on the boat, prepping the awesome meal you’re about to cook on the grill or just want a small serving of rosé, this a great one to try out. A blend of 50% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 30% Cinsault, AMBLE + CHASE Rosé 2018 is pale salmon pink in color and shows complex aromas of cherry blossom and white raspberry, giving way to notes of juicy peach and ripe red grapefruit on the palate. The wine has a persistent freshness and salty minerality thanks to the vines’ southern exposure and cooling breezes from the Mediterranean. This rosé compliments any grilled fish or shellfish dinner. $17.99/4 pack of 250ml cans.

 

 

 

2- Echo Bay New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc – This Sauvignon Blanc is grown in the pristine vineyards of Marlborough, surrounded by jagged mountain peaks, brilliant blue skies, and a maze of crystal-clear inlets. With its bright, exuberant flavors and crisp acidity, every sip of Echo Bay Sauvignon Blanc is pure New Zealand – a beautiful light straw color with a tint of green. Zesty citrus and floral aromas lead to balanced flavors of passion fruit, melon, fig and gooseberry, followed by a clean, refreshing finish. It’s exquisite on its own or paired with lighter foods, summer salads, and seafood. $16.98

2- Henry Fessy Gamay Noir – We recently had an After Hours tasting featuring the wines of Louis Latour and this wine was the star of the show. Going up with wines doubled and tripled in price, this light Gamay held its own and now is a featured wine at both locations. The estate of Maison Henry Fessy consists of over 70 hectares (175 acres) of exceptional vineyards in the heart of the region’s celebrated Crus. Originally from Burgundy, the Gamay Noir variety is a naturally fruity grape that produces elegant and balanced wines. The reintroduction of the owl to the vineyards was carried out in order to sustainably combat and eliminate rodents and other animals that attack the vine. This wine will go great with any kind of wild game and is a pleasant red wine to just sip on. $12.98

4- Avatar Malbec – Founded in 1862, Casir dos Santos is one of the oldest wineries still operating today. With more than 100 years of history, the winery was selected to nurture our project. This is how Casir dos Santos was born. A winery which brings together a great history and a team of people who continuously bring professionalism, creativity, and passion. Easily, one of the coolest places I visited while in Argentina. This 100% Malbec presents a vibrant red color with glints of Bordeaux. Great aromatic intensity. It expresses in a very fresh way, with red fruits and a remarkable sweetness. In the mouth, it’s balanced with round and sweet tannins, rich and with marked acidity. In my opinion, nothing goes better with grilled steaks than Argentina Malbec and this one is a steal at $14.99.

 

During this brief time of perfect weather, you need to get out and enjoy it. Invite some friends over, cookout and enjoy the weather before it gets too hot out there. Be sure to tell your mother you love her on Mother’s Day (Michelle Holt, I love you!) and we have some awesome tastings coming up too!

May 9th Washington State Wine Tasting – Pamplico Highway,  7:20-9:00 pm, $15.00 admission, receive your ticket cost back when you spend $75.00 or more.

May 10th & 11th Free Mother’s Day tasting – 5 Points, 3:00-7:00 pm.

May 23rd Battle of the Blends – 5 Points, 7:20-9:00 pm, $15.00 admission, receive your ticket cost back when you spend $75.00 or more.

June 4th Lands Down Under Wine Experience – 5 Points, $15.00 admission, receive your ticket cost back when you spend $75.00 or more. LAST AFTER HOURS TASTING UNTIL AUGUST!

 

Bryan Holt with the Wine Maker and Co-Owners of Casir Dos Santos, producers of Avatar Malbec

 

 

 

 

Micky Finn’s

550 Pamplico Hwy • Florence • 843.413.1183

194 S Cashua Dr • Florence • 843.317.9463