Florence Celebrates Local Heroes: Howard Brothers Named Business Persons of the Year
Florence, S.C. — It was a heartwarming and cheerful afternoon at the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce’s annual Membership Luncheon, where two beloved local brothers, Charles Howard Jr. and Chase Howard, were honored with the prestigious title of Business Persons of the Year. This lovely event, held at the Florence Center, celebrated their hard work and dedication not just to their business, but also to the community.
Many folks driving through the Pee Dee region have likely stopped at a local Chase Oil Company gas station or grabbed a car wash at one of the many Scrubby’s Car Wash locations. The duo’s impactful work in the area has touched countless lives, and their recognition as business leaders was received with cheers and applause from the attendees.
A Surprising Honor
With a mix of gratitude and surprise, Charles Howard Jr. expressed his delight upon receiving the award. “This is quite a surprise. The moral of this story is that if Reimer King invites you to lunch, you go. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. King,” he noted, beaming with joy. This annual luncheon was extra special for Charles, as it marked the first time his wife shared this memorable experience with him.
His brother, Chase, shared similar sentiments, confessing that he should have been a bit more curious when the lunch invitation came about. “I was just excited about being asked out for lunch,” he laughed, showcasing the easy bond they share.
Strength in Family
The heart of their speech revolved around family. The Howard brothers credited each other’s support as vital in their success as the third generation running their family business. “We push each other, rely on each other, help each other, and love each other,” Charles Jr. remarked. Chase added, “This is about our parents.” Both brothers reflect fondly on the work ethic instilled in them growing up, recalling their father’s tough love, “dad was putting that boot to our backside.”
“We were taught to work early on. We were taught to be honest. We were taught to help our fellow man,” Chase highlighted as he beamed with pride, clearly cherishing those early lessons that shaped their lives.
Roots in the Community
The brothers’ roots run deep in Darlington and Florence, where they witnessed the relentless efforts of their grandfather and father as they built the family business. One brother graduated with a degree in administration and psychology, while the other earned a degree in business management from The Citadel.
Ashley Christenbury, a senior vice president and city executive at First Bank, shared the boys’ inspiring journey, noting their early days of selling fireworks out of makeshift trailers to make ends meet, evolving into the entrepreneurs they are today, now overseeing a business that spans ten locations and employs over 100 people.
An Eye for Conservation
A significant aspect of Charles and Chase Howard’s legacy involves their commitment to the environment. They partnered with the Pee Dee Land Trust to conserve over 3,700 acres of Witherspoon Island, including waterways that are crucial for local ecology. Their car wash business prides itself on water conservation, using a remarkable 70% recycled water in its daily operations.
Community Leadership
Beyond their business ventures, the Howard brothers have made a mark through active participation in local organizations, holding positions in the Kiwanis Club, Dedicated Community Bank, and the Board of Zoning Appeals, among others. They have donated both time and resources to support a variety of causes, from local high schools to the Salvation Army and beyond.
“It is clear that both are passionate about giving back to the community that raised them,” Christenbury pointed out while celebrating their efforts. The brothers have certainly made a considerable impact, providing jobs and support to numerous organizations, showcasing that true success goes beyond business alone.
As the luncheon came to a close, attendees celebrated not just the accomplishments of the Howard brothers, but the spirit of community and collaboration that they embody. Hats off to Charles and Chase Howard for being shining examples of what it means to uplift each other and cherish the community they love!
