First Reliance Sponsors Business Newcomers Event

Posted: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 8:11 am BY JOE PERRY Morning News FLORENCE, S.C. – Leaders of business and industry gathered Tuesday evening at the Hilton Garden Inn to welcome representatives from Ruiz Foods, Honda of South Carolina, South East Express and Johnson Controls who have recently moved to the area. The event was sponsored by First Reliance Bank and Raldex Hospitality. The aim was to simply welcome newcomers and let them know Florence is happy to have them, said Joan Billheimer, community development officer for the bank. “We’re getting ready to start the second line,” said Jim Bowman, Ruiz Foods’ operations manager. “Things are looking good. so we’re excited to make product.” Bowman, who hails from Davenport, Iowa, joined the family-owned and California-based company after working for Oscar Meyer for 20 years, and was referring to a line of snack foods known as Tornados that are commonly found on convenience store roller grills. It was at the company’s Denison, Texas, plant where he first started working for Ruiz Foods, and now he’s happy to have moved with his family to the Pee Dee. “A great company to work for,” he said. “They’re really people-oriented; a great culture as well.” More can be read by clicking on the following link to SCNOW.com