What does it take to grow from one hotel to 64 across 10 states—and still choose to call Florence home?

In this episode of Double R Flowtown, we sit down with Grey Raines to talk about entrepreneurship, hospitality, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.

From a fourth-generation family business to navigating cases like 2008 and COVID, Gray shares lessons on risk, leadership, and why Florence still has massive opportunity ahead.

We also get into:

• Why hospitality is harder than ever
• The real impact of Airbnb on hotels
• What Florence is getting right (and wrong)
• Why infrastructure and safety matter more than anything
• How mentorship and relationships shape success

This one is about more than business—it’s about legacy, community, and building something that outlives you.

What does it take to help transform a downtown?

In this episode of Double R Flowtown, Reeves and Robert sit down with longtime Florence developer and entrepreneur Tim Norwood. From early business failures to building nationally recognized companies and helping lead the revitalization of downtown Florence, Tim shares the lessons that shaped his journey.

We dive into the story behind Hotel Florence, Victor’s restaurant, and the early vision that helped spark downtown’s resurgence. Tim also explains how the Florence Wine & Food Festival grew from a small 60-person dinner into a nationally recognized culinary event drawing chefs, writers, and visitors from across the country.

Along the way we talk about entrepreneurship, risk-taking, mentorship, the future of Florence, and why the next generation of leaders will shape the city’s growth.

Mayor Lethonia Barnes and City Manager Scotty Davis sit down with us for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about what’s really happening inside Florence’s water system — and more importantly, what’s being done about it. From iron-rich aquifers to construction disturbances, they break down the science, the safety standards, and the long-term fix in plain English.

With more than $200 million committed to water, sewer, and stormwater upgrades through 2045, city leadership is putting real investment behind real solutions — modernizing plants, expanding capacity, and using smart technology to keep Florence growing the right way.

Have a question about Florence’s water? Drop it in the comments. We’re reading them, or even better go straight to the source and call the people who can do something about it! 843-665-3236