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Freezin’ for a Reason: Big Water Marina hosts the 3rd Annual Polar Bear Jump & Makes a Splash to Support the Red Fez Shrine Club of Anderson

This February, Big Water Marina will celebrate hosting the 3rd Annual Polar Bear Jump organized by the Red Fez Shrine Club of Anderson.

Starr, SC, January 29, 2024 – Supporters will gather at Big Water Marina & Campground for another reason to be freezin’ during the Red Fez Shrine Club of Anderson’s 3rd Annual Polar Bear Jump on Saturday, February 17th. All proceeds for the event are used to raise awareness and funds to support our local Shrine Club and their mission. This year’s event welcomes a new presenting sponsor, Wings Etc.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our third annual Polar Bear Jump at Big Water Marina,” says Kenny Slawson, President of Anderson Red Fez. “This year, we’re debuting a lot of exciting new developments including a brand new logo design and our first ever presenting sponsor! We are so grateful to Wings Etc for supporting this cause and we feel like our rebrand truly signifies the growth we’ve been able to achieve as well as all our future plans for this community event.”

This year, organizers are looking forward to hosting a record-breaking event. “From last year’s total, we were able to donate an impressive $6,500! This year, we’re aiming even higher­—over $8,000,” says Ben Wright, event organizer.

Participants can sign up to take the plunge for just $30—fees include a free Polar Bear Jump t-shirt, a gold medal, and a swag bag full of goodies! Any interested members must sign an event waiver and submit the form via email to [email protected]. Spectators are also encouraged to come out and support the cause for free. The day will kick-off at 10:00 AM with day-of registration & check-in for participants, and the “jump” will begin at 11:00 AM.

All guests are invited to stick around after the main event to warm up and hang out. Event organizers have been hard at work planning additional activities for the day, including tastings and a full bar provided by Palmetto Distillery, food and drinks from Typsy Tavern food truck, fundraising raffles with prizes donated by Big Water Marina and Palmetto Distillery, and more. Full event details can be found by visiting the Facebook event page linked below.

Visit the Facebook event page & RSVP here: https://bit.ly/polar-jump-2024
Polar Bear Jump waiver for participants: https://bit.ly/jump-waiver-2024
Sponsorship opportunities: https://bit.ly/jump-sponsor-2024

 

Spartanburg Community College Digital Design Students Awarded $6000 in Scholarships

Left to right – Austin Stines, Sofia Vykhovanets, Sunflower Her, Ashley Koch (Digital Design Instructor), John Hoyle (Digital Design Program Director)

Three talented Digital Design students at Spartanburg Community College have been awarded a combined $6,000 in scholarships from the Printing Industry of the Carolinas (PICA). This prestigious recognition places SCC students at the forefront of graphic design talent in both North and South Carolina, surpassing competitors from esteemed institutions like Clemson and Appalachian State University.

Second-year student Austin Stines, a previous recipient of the PICA/Treadaway scholarship, has been awarded the prestigious honor for a second consecutive year. This unique scholarship provides $2,000 annually to a deserving student, contingent upon maintaining their GPA. Austin’s dedication to his studies has earned him a well-deserved renewal, solidifying his position as a rising star in the field.

Joining Austin as a PICA/Treadaway scholarship recipient is first-year student Sunflower Her. Sunflower’s exceptional talent and academic performance have secured her a $2,000 award for the current year, with the potential for renewal next year based on her academic standing.

This marks the first time SCC has had back-to-back Treadaway scholarship winners, a testament to the program’s exceptional talent pool.

Rounding out the SCC award recipients is first-year student Sofia Vykhovanets, who has been chosen for the PICA/Weese one-year scholarship valued at $2,000. Sofia’s creativity and potential have impressed the PICA selection committee, and she is poised to make significant contributions to the graphic design industry.

PICA is the regional trade association for print manufacturing in North and South Carolina and serves the Carolinas’ printing industry through education, products, services, conferences, and awards, as well as support at both the local and national levels. PICA’s commitment to education and workforce development ensures that future generations of graphic designers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen field.

Habitat for Humanity of Greenville’s Fields named to Riley Fellow program

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Joseph Fields, Habitat’s Vice President of Equity, has been named to the Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI) from Furman University’s Riley Institute Spring cohort.

A graduate of Chaminade University, Fields served as Paraprofessional Program Aid for the Blue Ridge Council of the Boy Scouts of America from 2009 to 2014; as an Outreach and Education for Maryland-based Pathways, a youth services program, from 2014 to 2016; and then worked in Hawaii’s state’s probation office as a Social Services Assistant from 2016 to 2019.

From 2019 to 2021, he worked for the Georgia Department of Corrections before taking a job working in New Mexico as a U.S. Border Patrol Agent. He returned to Greenville in 2022 to work as a community organizer with Greenville Connects, a group that promotes better transportation options.

He joined Habitat in 2023, and is charged with leading the new program to increase Black homeownership in greater Greenville County by building partnerships and raising awareness.

In this DLI program, class members are selected through a rigorous application and interview process after being nominated by existing graduates of the program, known as Riley Fellows. They are accepted based on a variety of factors, including their interest in and commitment to the program and their capacity to create impact within their organizations and communities. Each class is crafted to reflect South Carolina’s demographic makeup.

Fields will take part in a highly interactive curriculum consisting of case studies, scenario analyses, and other experiential learning tools that maximize interaction and discussion among classmates and facilitate productive relationships. Working alongside classmates, Fields will also develop a capstone project that raises awareness of community need.
Now in its twentieth year, the program equips participants with tools and perspectives to leverage diversity to improve organizational outcomes and drive social and economic progress in South Carolina.

About Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County:
Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County opened its doors in 1985 to bring families, community partners, and volunteers together to construct affordable, energy-efficient homes that help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance. As of May 2023, Habitat Greenville has completed the construction of 405 homes. Habitat Greenville received the 2017 Builder of the Year award from EarthCraft, and in recognition of financial health, accountability, and transparency, maintain a 4-Star Charity status by Charity Navigator. Habitat Greenville ReStores are located at 3033 Wade Hampton Boulevard, and 1818 Woodruff Road. Call 864-312-5016 for free donation pickups.
Learn more at www.habitatgreenville.org.

Arthur State Bank Promotes Five Leaders, Hires Two in a Time of Transition

JB Garrett

UNION, SC, January 26, 2024 – Arthur State Bank, a community bank with 18 local branches in South Carolina, is pleased to announce five senior leadership promotions and two new hires to the team. The news comes on the heels of the multifaceted CFO Danny Cook’s retirement at the end of last year.

“These exciting personnel announcements signify a significant transition for Arthur State as we push forward into 2024,” said Carlisle Oxner, III, chairman and president of Arthur State Bank.

“More than ever, we’re dedicated to serving our customers on a personalized level, and we
have a fantastic team set up to support that.”

Senior Leadership Promotions

JB Garrett from Greenville, South Carolina, was named Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Arthur State Bank and will oversee all accounting and tax operations. Garrett was previously CFO of GrandSouth Bank and harbors nearly 25 years of industry experience. He holds a master’s degree in accounting from the University of South Carolina.

Jerris B. Garner has been promoted to Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO) and will also lead the branch administration team in directing all 18 branches in management procedures. Garner has evolved with the company throughout her incredible tenure of more than 50 years.

John C. Gregory was named Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Lending Officer (CLO). Beginning his career at Arthur State Bank as a management trainee in 2005 and becoming an integral part of the bank for more than 18 years, Gregory will take on additional responsibilities, contributing to the growth and development of the team and the bank as a whole. He graduated from the South Carolina’s Banker’s School in 2009 and the LSU Graduate School of Banking in 2023.

Shannon G. Rector has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer (CTO) after more than 33 years of unwavering commitment to the community bank. As CTO, she will lead Arthur State Bank’s strategic planning, research and development and technological efforts including digital banking, debit and credit cards, and the IT department. Rector has a degree in computer technology from Spartanburg Community College.

Tara W. Webb was named Chief Trust Officer. Webb has overseen the growth and success of Arthur State Bank’s trust and wealth management department for the past 16 years and will continue to lead the team of trust officers. She is a graduate of Presbyterian College with a degree in business administration.

New Hires

Additionally, two new hires have each been named Vice President and Loan Officer. Alton B. Bishop IV comes to the bank with more than seven years of experience and is based out of the bank’s Union Main branch. Lori H. Patrick, based out of the Rock Hill branch, brings more than 30 years of experience.

Founded in 1933 in Union, South Carolina, Arthur State Bank has been a trusted financial
partner for generations of families and businesses. The company remains committed to
providing exceptional service and innovative banking solutions. The bank offers various
services, including personal and business banking, loans, mortgages and investment services.

For more information on Arthur State Bank, visit one of its 18 branch locations, or bank online at arthurstatebank.com.

Milliken & Company Leader to Join The Blood Connection Board of Trustees

GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Blood Connection (TBC) has announced the appointment of Brent Odom to its Board of Trustees. Odom represents Milliken & Company and joins 12 other board members who help to ensure blood collected and processes by TBC meets the needs of local hospitals, at the highest standards.

“Brent has been involved with TBC through sharing his personal connection to blood donation as his wife, Kristen, is also a recipient of lifesaving blood products,” said Delisa English, President and CEO of The Blood Connection. “We are excited to have him as an addition to our outstanding board and are thankful for his support.”

Odom is the Global Trade Compliance Manager for the Corporate Legal Team at Milliken & Company in Spartanburg, SC. There he is a key leader on the company’s trade compliance team reporting to the corporate legal division that coordinates functions involving global import and export regulations, free trade agreements, military product compliance, requirements for shipments entering commerce of various countries, and classification of products for international trade. Odom has previously served on the Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust Board of Directors. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Elon University and a master’s degree in public policy & law from Liberty University.

“It is an honor and privilege to be chosen to serve The Blood Connection and our communities in this capacity. Since receiving blood is so personal to our family, I look forward to supporting TBC and the important work of saving lives.”

Odom and fellow board members will focus on developing long term strategic priorities to strengthen TBC’s community engagement and foster increased support from community leaders and groups.

About The Blood Connection
Founded in Greenville, SC, The Blood Connection has been committed to saving lives since 1962. TBC is an independently managed, not-for-profit, community blood center that provides blood products to more than 120 hospitals and emergency partners within South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. Recognized by the U.S. Congress for its dedication to disaster preparedness and the community, TBC works diligently to collect blood from volunteer donors to meet the ever-increasing demand. By keeping collections local, TBC serves hundreds of thousands of patients a year in its communities. TBC is licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For more information, visit thebloodconnection.org.

Rick Saunders, CEO and Founder, Joins MUSC Children’s Health Fund Advisory Board of Directors as Director

Rick Saunders, First Reliance Bank CEO and Founder

Rick Saunders, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of First Reliance, has been appointed to the Medical University of South Carolina Children’s Health Fund Advisory as Director. As a Board member, Rick, a loyal advocate of the Children’s Hospital within the community, will advise on financial responsibilities with development while participating in third-party community events to support keeping MUSC kids at the forefront of the community. Board members support the efforts of the Children’s Hospital Fund and the Children’s Miracle Network staff and stay current on the hospital’s departmental fundraising needs.

Rick said, “Participation is key to driving positive change and making a difference in our communities. By getting involved in initiatives like the Medical University of South Carolina Children’s Health Fund Advisory, we can help improve the health and well-being of children in our state; whether that is through financial support, volunteering, or advocating for the cause, every contribution counts. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for our kids.”

ABOUT FIRST RELIANCE BANK
Founded in 1999, First Reliance Bancshares, Inc. (OTC: FSRL.OB) is based in Florence, South Carolina, and has assets of approximately $950 million. The Company employs more than 200 professionals and has locations throughout South Carolina and central North Carolina. First Reliance has redefined community banking with a commitment to making customers’ lives better, its founding principle. We offer a full range of personalized community banking products and services for individuals, small businesses, and corporations, including a full suite of digital banking services, treasury services, a Customer Service Guarantee, and a Mortgage Service Guarantee. First Reliance also offers two unique community customer programs, which include Hometown Heroes, a package of benefits for those serving our communities, and Check ‘N Save, an outreach program for the unbanked or under-banked. Additional information about the Company is available on our website, www.firstreliance.com.

Emily Bruce Joins Professional Recruiting Firm Forge Search as Recruiter

Emily Bruce, Recruiter with Forge Search + Consulting

Greenville, South Carolina – Emily Bruce has joined Greenville-based Forge Search + Consulting as a recruiter after an early career in marketing and advertising. Beginning as an event intern, Bruce spent seven years in progressively expanding roles and responsibilities in account management for a large marketing and branding agency, rising to the level of account supervisor. While there, her duties included significant client guidance and relationship management for both B2C & B2B clients, as well as project and event management, and mentorship of internal agency staff. Forge Search is a rapidly-growing professional recruiting firm that primarily recruits within the fields of marketing & sales, accounting & finance, and human resources.

“Emily brings a number of significant skills and experiences to our team, including her strengths in building deep client relationships,” said Rhiannon Poore, CEO and founder of Forge Search. “Her knowledge of marketing and sales within an agency context provides an incredible benefit to our clients. I also appreciate Emily’s clear ability to work within a collaborative team environment to serve clients, as Forge’s service is based on that kind of collaboration. We are thrilled to have her here!”

“I was attracted to the recruiting world in part because it seems to combine both project management and a deeply personal side of business,” said Emily Bruce. “The opportunity to work in recruiting—helping to match talented candidates with the right company—felt like a meaningful and rewarding next step. Rhiannon allowed me to come and shadow the Forge team for a while, and that sold me on Forge. I always say that the best part of any job is the people, and the team at Forge is so strong and talented, and very warm as well. I believed I could be a good fit.”

Bruce received her degree in Business Administration and Management from Bob Jones University, where she was also selected as student body president and served on the student leadership council.

Forge Search + Consulting is a rapidly-growing professional recruiting firm that primarily recruits within the fields of accounting & finance, human resources, and marketing & sales for companies around the Southeast. Forge Search is first and foremost focused on people — both clients and candidates — with a commitment to acting with integrity, transparency and quality. Learn more about Forge at https://www.forgesc.com. Connect with Forge CEO Rhiannon Poore at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhiannonpoore.

Engenius Hired Emily Bobbitt As New Office Manager

Engenius Hired Emily Bobbitt As New Office Manager

Greenville, S.C. (Jan 22, 2024) – Engenius, an Upstate digital marketing agency celebrating 15 years of serving small businesses with cutting-edge web design and digital marketing solutions, has hired Emily Bobbitt as the new office manager. Bobbitt comes to Engenius with 20 years of experience as an executive assistant, program manager, and grants manager.

“Emily brings so much experience supporting teams and helping ensure our internal coordination and communication is effective and efficient,” said Chris Manley, CEO and co-founder of Engenius. “She is an integral part of our customer service team as she helps our clients connect with the resources they need and is already making a big impact at Engenius.”

Bobbitt earned a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and is active in her children’s school and dance activities.

Engenius has helped over 500 businesses revamp their online presence with web design and digital marketing services. For more information about careers at Engenius and their client work and services, visit www.engeniusweb.com.

About Engenius
Engenius is a website and digital marketing agency serving businesses through design, strategy, optimization, service and support, and by driving traffic for websites. Based in Greenville, SC, Engenius has over fifteen years of experience working with hundreds of businesses and organizations to build, optimize, and support their websites. Served by a team of passionate professionals, Engenius’ clients routinely point to the company’s responsiveness, proactivity, genuine care, systems-based approach, and personable nature as the reasons they work with Engenius long-term. Learn more by visiting engeniusweb.com.

United Way welcomes five community leaders to 2024 board of directors

Five community leaders have been elected to serve new terms on United Way of Greenville County’s Board of Directors in 2024.

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New directors include Bryan Brown, president and CEO of the Greenville Housing Fund; Bryant Davis, chief diversity officer for the City of Greenville; LaCheryl Coleman, head of schools for Legacy Early College; Stephen Edgerton, president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Caine; and Whitney Hanna, executive director of strategic communications and engagement with Greenville County Schools.

 

“We’re excited to welcome these talented community leaders to our board of directors,” said United Way of Greenville County President and CEO Meghan Barp. “Each of them brings a strong track record of leadership and community service. Their unique perspectives and shared passion for serving our community will be invaluable as we work together to build a Greenville County where all families have access to the opportunities to achieve their full potential.”

 

Bryan Brown

Bryan Brown is the President and CEO of the Greenville Housing Fund. He leads the organization’s efforts to champion the preservation and expansion of affordable housing options across Greenville through broad community engagement and advocacy for effective public policies. He also directs GHF investments in the new construction, acquisition, rehabilitation and preservation of naturally occurring affordable housing across Greenville with its many partners.  In addition, Bryan manages its land bank portfolio to preserve and develop affordable housing with an emphasis on equity and inclusion in historically minority neighborhoods.

 

Bryant Davis

Bryant Davis is the City of Greenville’s Chief Diversity Officer. Bryant joined the City in May of 2023 to support community efforts in the City’s Special Emphasis Neighborhoods, MWBE and supplier diversity efforts, and fostering an inclusive workplace climate for city employees. Bryant comes from Richland County Government where he worked in the Department of Government and Community Services supporting outreach and engagement efforts for County Departments, Administration, and County Council.

 

LaCheryl Smith Coleman

LaCheryl Smith Coleman, head of schools for Legacy Early College, is a national leader with a progressive career as an educator in tandem with 25 years of coaching in competitive high school and collegiate basketball programs.

Coleman began her education career in Greenville and Oconee counties at the elementary and middle school levels. In 2013, she joined the staff at the Legacy Early College High School as the Assistant Athletic Coach and the Parent Coordinator. During her time at Legacy, she has served as the College Success Coach and Dean of Early College. In 2018, Coleman became the principal of Legacy, producing the highest high school graduation rate in Greenville County Schools for the next four years.

 

Stephen Edgerton

Stephen Edgerton is president and CEO of The Caine Companies, a real estate brokerage and development company that includes Coldwell Banker Caine as well as a portfolio of real estate, property management, and insurance divisions.

As a past Chair of the Coldwell Banker Large Office Group, past Chairman of the Board for Metro Greenville YMCA, a current board member for Artisphere and and a long-time route volunteer with Meals on Wheels, Edgerton’s involvement and impact reaches far beyond the workplace. From his role as a leading real estate executive to his proven dedication to civic engagement, Edgerton’s work in and for Upstate communities continues to reflect his deep, personal commitment to the power of home.

 

Whitney Hanna

As Executive Director of Strategic Communications and Engagement for Greenville County Schools, Whitney Hanna is responsible for internal and external communications on behalf of the 44th largest school district in the country. Hanna previously served as the District’s Coordinator of Community Collaboration and Institutional Advancement. She has represented the District on the OnTrack Greenville Steering Committee, the Network for Southern Economic Mobility’s Greenville leadership team, and the REEM Commission’s Education Committee.

Hanna currently serves as Secretary of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County’s Board of Directors and as a member of the Community Foundation’s Capacity Building Grants Committee. She previously served on the United Way of Greenville’s Strategic Investments & Grants Committee, the Upcountry History Museum Board of Directors, Duke Energy Regional Advisory Board, the Greenville Mentoring Collaborative Board of Directors, and the Junior League of Greenville’s Board of Directors as Vice President of Community Impact.

 

About United Way of Greenville County

United Way of Greenville County mobilizes people and resources to improve lives, strengthen the community and advance equity for the benefit of all. Join the movement for a stronger Greenville County at unitedwaygc.org.

Fain McDaniel Announced as New Board Chair of SC Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation

Fain McDaniel, New Board Chair of the SCGSAH Foundation

The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation announces that current board member Fain McDaniel has assumed the role of board chair, effective January 1, 2024. McDaniel succeeds Terry Grayson-Caprio, who served as chair since 2019 and has been on the board since 2018. In her service to the Governor’s School Foundation board, McDaniel has chaired the Search and Strategy Committee and is a member of the Finance and Audit Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee.

“It has been a great honor to have served as chair of the Governor’s School Foundation Board of Directors,” said Grayson-Caprio. “I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments over the past several years. I am confident in our future and Fain’s leadership as the Foundation expands its impact across the state.”

McDaniel is a native of Greenville with strong ties to the arts, having participated in children’s theatre productions at Greenville Theatre and was a member of the inaugural graduating class of the Fine Arts Center in Greenville. McDaniel is also a Converse College graduate with a degree in accounting. She is a retired Partner of KPMG, LLP.

McDaniel serves on the Board of Trustees and chairs the Audit Committee at Converse University and has held numerous professional and philanthropic leadership positions with various organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Women Corporate Directors, and Junior Achievement.

“I’m honored to serve in this important role and to deepen my engagement with the Governor’s School Foundation. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the board to support arts education across the state.”

For more information on the Foundation’s leadership team, including our current board of directors, please visit our website, www.scgsah.org/give

ABOUT THE SC GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS FOUNDATION
The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation is a nonprofit organization that raises money to support the Governor’s School. The foundation uses its resources to increase access to the school for students who need financial support, aid the school’s efforts to provide arts education in under-resourced counties, and bridge the gap between state funding and the unique needs of South Carolina’s premier public arts school. Visit www.scgsah.org/give or call (864) 282-1570.