Published Date : March 1, 2013
Author : admin
A child’s innocent questions sometimes catch a parent off-guard, and one such question prompted Greenville author Beth Lindsay Templeton to write a children’s book.
The question was, “Why does my classmate smell funny?”
The answer to that and many other questions are in her new book A Coat Named Mr. Spot — a book written to promote a better understanding of poverty among children and their parents.
Though Templeton wrote the book, the United Way of Greenville partnered with her to make the book a reality.
For over thirty years Templeton has worked closely with the poor and people who are marginalized because of their economic situation. Likewise, the United Way of Greenville works to improve people’s lives throughout the community, so Templeton and the United Way saw their partnership as a perfect fit.
The result of their efforts is a book that helps children empathize with classmates who may live in poverty.
The book follows two children, Betsy and Robert, as they visit their grandparents one weekend. The children ask their grandparents about some of their classmates whose behavior seems strange to Betsy and Robert. The grandparents compassionately explain in each case some of the possible reasons behind the behavior. The grandparents in the story serve as a model for any parent or grandparent who has struggled to come up with good answers to questions about poverty. Templeton based the questions in the story on real questions from real children. For answers, she draws on her rich experience working with people in poverty.
Dana Thompson’s illustrations bring to life this informative, important story. The book contains a parents’ guide for those parents who wish to explore issues of economic inequality more with their children.
Color paperback ($9.99 /avenidabooks.com)
Published Date : February 25, 2013
Author : admin
A number of Upstate business leaders are pooling resources aimed at bolstering work by Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County.
The group launched construction of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County’s newest project, a home in the Abigail Springs development of Taylors. This particular house is the inaugural project of a new Habitat for Humanity campaign, called CEO Build – Framing the Future. The business leaders signed the wall studs for the new home during the ceremony.
This program calls on area business leaders to donate at least four hours of service work to the targeted Habitat home.
Habitat of Greenville’s first CEO Build team includes: Dick Wilkerson (Michelin North America: former President and CEO and CEO Build Chairman); Mark Nantz (Bon Secours St. Francis Health System: President & CEO); Angela Webb (CertusBank: President); Bob Morris (Community Foundation of Greenville: President); Timothy Brett (Complete Public Relations: CEO); George Acker (Duke Energy: Regional Community/Government Affairs Director); Rick Davis (Elliott Davis: Managing Shareholder); Annette Allen (Fluor Corporation: Vice-President and General Manager, Greenville Office); Ben Haskew (Greenville Chamber of Commerce: President); Martin Livingston (Greenville County Redevelopment Authority: Executive Director); Russell Stall (Greenville Forward: Executive Director); Michael Riordan (Greenville Hospital System: President & CEO); Dr. Keith Miller (Greenville Technical College: President); Larry Jackson (Jackson Marketing Group: CEO); Don Erickson (Lockheed Martin: Greenville Site Lead); Steve Spinks (The Spinx Corporation: CEO); Ted Hendry (United Way of Greenville County: President); Steve Wetmore (Wal-Mart Distribution Center: Operations Manager); and Paul (Bo) Aughtry (Windsor Aughtry Company: President).
Dick Wilkerson kicked off the gathering speaking before the enthusiastic crowd that included the participating CEOs, their guests, the Habitat for Humanity Board, Habitat staff and its Quality Assurance team. The CEO Build team showed an increasing sense of camaraderie. Not only do these community leaders know each other from their business dealings, Habitat’s campaign brings them together periodically to create that important sense of team.
Monroe Free, the executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, noted the team’s powerful commitment to Greenville while praising their philanthropic efforts.
“Seeing these area leaders taking time out of their hectic schedules to come here and swing a hammer for a few hours really affirms your faith in community and what we can achieve when we pull together for the greater good,” he said.
Published Date : February 21, 2013
Author : admin
Designed to add South Carolina to the nation’s 5-year plan for offshore exploration and production, the South Carolina Offshore Drilling Act would add a crucial step in safely developing the state’s natural resources according to the bill’s sponsor Congressman Jeff Duncan.
Congressman Duncan introduced this legislation last July as an amendment in the House Natural Resources Committee, and while it eventually passed the House, it was never taken up by the Senate.
“Safely developing our natural resources not only creates jobs, but is also a step towards reaching the goal of North American energy independence,” Duncan said. “South Carolina is already a national leader in nuclear power. Developing our resources along the coast can help make South Carolina a model for an all-the-above approach to energy.”
Last week, the governors of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia sent a letter to Interior Secretary-Designate Sally Jewell encouraging her to abandon federal opposition to drilling off the Atlantic Coast, where production has been blocked for decades.
“We’ve made it crystal clear that South Carolina is committed to job creation,” said Governor Nikki Haley. “Congressman Duncan’s legislation gives South Carolina the freedom to safely develop its natural resources, and as a result potentially bring thousands of new jobs to the state. This is the type of teamwork that continues to make South Carolina an attractive home for business.”
A 2009 study commissioned by the American Petroleum Institute estimated there could be as much as 3.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas off the South Carolina coast.
A separate study calculated that oil and natural gas production could create over 7,500 new jobs in South Carolina, have a statewide economic impact of over $2.2 billion annually, and generate around $87.5 million in new state revenue.
“I will continue to advocate for South Carolinians who want these jobs, and the economic benefits that come with them,” said Duncan. “We can develop our resources safely and in a way that benefits the entire state. South Carolina has been very vocal on this issue, and we’ve let both Congress and the President know that we’re not backing down.”
Published Date : February 21, 2013
Author : admin
South Carolina Congressman Jeff Duncan announced that he would be returning a significant portion of his office budget to the taxpayers for the second year in a row. Duncan’s wish is that the returned funds be used to pay down the national debt.
Duncan announced that his office would be returning around $200,000 or 15.2% of his overall budget. That figure is on top of a mandatory 11.1% cumulative cut to all Congressional Offices over the past two years.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I try to run this office the same way I ran my small business. It’s important to apply to our Congressional Office the same common sense principles that we all use to manage our homes and our businesses. If the entire federal government did that, we wouldn’t be $16.5 trillion in debt.”
Last year, Duncan joined several of his colleagues in a press conference where they collectively returned a total of over $1.4 million in unused office funds.
“By operating within a budget, my office was able to cut spending again this year,” said Duncan.
“Our country’s balance sheet shows what happens when we fail to live within our means. It’s been 1387 days since the Senate has passed a budget. During that time the national debt has increased by trillions of dollars. If individuals, families, and businesses can all use budgets to balance spending, why can’t the federal government?”
Published Date : February 20, 2013
Author : admin
Ten parking meters that accept coins and credit/debit cards will be installed on Beaufort’s Bay Street next month as part of a 60-day test before the city orders replacement meters for the rest of downtown.
The new meters will look the same as the current ones, but provide users the option of paying by credit or debit card along with coins.
“We write very few parking tickets in the Downtown Marina lot, possibly because those meters take credit and debit cards and people can easily buy the most time available on the meter, as opposed to paying with handfuls of quarters and dimes,” said Lundy Baker, project manager for Lanier Parking Solutions which manages Beaufort’s parking.
The combination coin/card meters cost $595 each compared to $450 for the coin-only versions. That cost difference typically is recouped over the first year because people buy more time using their credit cards and debit cards, Baker said.
Myrtle Beach is installing the combination coin/card meters starting in March, as is Wrightsville Beach.
“We need to order new parking meters because the ones on the streets now are about 14-years-old and they are beyond efficient maintenance,” Beaufort City Manager Scott Dadson said. “Also, we have heard from many downtown shoppers and merchants that they like the idea of having the choice of paying with a credit or debit card.
“Trying out 10 of these new meters in various locations along Bay Street will let us track their usage and see how many people actually do pay for parking with credit or debit cards,” Dadson said.
Hourly rates remain unchanged. While the test meters will accept the same coins as the current meters do, they’ll also accept dollar coins and tokens, in case Main Street Beaufort USA or individual merchants want to provide shoppers with tokens.
The meters will accept standard credit and debit cards and all transaction are encrypted, just as they are with gasoline pump card readers, Baker said.
The test meters will be placed along Bay Street’s the three blocks of Beaufort’s core commercial area, he said. The meters look the same as the current ones and aren’t the larger “parking kiosks” tried out in Beaufort three years ago.
Parking rules are enforced downtown from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Parking is free on Sundays and recognized holidays.
Parking revenues are split with 85 percent going to the Beaufort Redevelopment Commission and 15 percent going to Main Street Beaufort USA. None of the money goes into Beaufort’s general fund.
Published Date : February 20, 2013
Author : admin
With spring on the horizon, the Edisto Island and Edisto Beach communities will mark the shift in seasons with events designed to showcase the natural wonder of this quiet coastal island destination in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
First up is the Edisto Eats Food Festival, which will take place on March 16 at McConkey’s Jungle Shack. The Arts and Crafts Fair will begin at 11a.m. The 3rd Annual Chefs’ Competition will be held at 2:00 p.m., followed by a community oyster roast at 4:30 p.m. Live music will begin at noon.
In conjunction with the Edisto Eats Food Festival, the 2nd Annual Edisto Beach Road Race start the day at 8:30 a.m. and run on beach streets and along Big Bay Creek. For registration information, visit www.edistochamber.com.
Later in March, the Edisto Art Guild Players will present four performances of “The Red Velvet Cake.” The show will run March 21 through 24. Tickets are $10.00. For more information, call 843-869-3275.
On March 30, local and talented artisans will display their creations at the Art Guild’s semi-annual Arts and Crafts Show and Sale. Scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the event will take place at the Edistonian General Store, located at 406 Highway 174 on Edisto Island.
On April 20, the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Society will host an inaugural event — The Spring Tour of Homes: History in the Making — showcasing new homes on the island. Interested parties are encouraged to get tickets early when they go on sale late February. For additional information, visit www.edistomuseum.org.
Meanwhile, May brings the always popular Edisto Day Bazaar on May 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lions Club, located on Edisto Beach at 2907 Myrtle Street. The event attracts all ages and features an arts and crafts fair, white elephant sale, baked goods, and a café with a variety of culinary offerings.
That same day, participants will gather on Big Bay Creek for the 4th Annual Offshore Fishing Challenge. The captain’s meeting will be held at Dockside Restaurant May 3 at 7:30 p.m. For additional information, including information on entry fee, weigh in and guidelines, visit www.edistobeachoffshorechallenge.com.
Later in May, the Open Land Trust Legacy Live Oak Dedication and Conservation Celebration will be held. The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 19, at 3:00 p.m. at Indigo Farms. Visit www.edisto.org, or call 843-869-7820 for more information.
If you aren’t familiar with Edisto, it’s set in a rare, sparsely-developed corner of the world, with vast green spaces, ancient live oaks, wide open marsh views, and quiet, pristine beach, offers a coastal island experience uncommon today among Eastern seaboard communities. Visitors and residents alike enjoy a slower pace of life, coupled with a broad range of year-round recreational activities, all set in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. This is the coastal island destination that is said to offer its own “state of mind…any time, any season.”
Published Date : February 20, 2013
Author : admin
The James Beard Foundation announced its list of Restaurant and Chef Award semifinalists for the 2013 James Beard Foundation Awards, the nation’s most prestigious recognition program honoring professionals in the food and beverage industries.
Selected from a list of over 44,000 online entries, the prestigious group of semifinalists in 20 categories represents a wide variety of culinary talent, from exceptional chefs and dining destinations in ten different regions across the U.S., to the nation’s top wine and spirits professionals, best new restaurants, and rising star chefs.
James Beard Foundation Book, Broadcast & Journalism award listings will be released separately.
With the Restaurant and Chef Award finalists announced on March 18 at Lowndes Grove Plantation in Charleston, at least six South Carolina nominees have a chance of making that list before the winners are announced in May. They are (by category):
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
OUTSTANDING CHEF
OUTSTANDING WINE PROGRAM
BEST CHEF: SOUTHEAST
Published Date : February 18, 2013
Author : admin
The SC Bar Foundation presents a check to YMCA YIG Executive Director Mary Capers Bledsoe and YMCA Development Specialist Tiffany Massey
Through a “fund-and-friend-raising” event sponsored by Certus Bank, Collins and Lacy, The Palmetto Bank, and TD Bank, the South Carolina YMCA Youth in Government program has received a $5,000 grant from the SC Bar Foundation.
Approximately 100 people from the Upstate legal community were present and made gifts to the Bar Foundation which, in turn, donated the proceeds to three grantees – including SC YMCA Youth in Government.
The $5,000 gift awarded to the Y provides students attending Title I schools, who otherwise could not afford to participate, with access to life-enriching Y programs that cultivate the values, relationships and skills kids need to thrive.
SC Bar Foundation funding supports scholarships for fifteen students to participate in Model Legislature and Court Conference for high school students.
More than 1,200 students from 45 schools participate in November at this three-day conference at the Statehouse in Columbia.
Student legislators write and debate bills, student attorneys try and appeal cases, and student reporters publish a newspaper and create a nightly newscast for an experience that provides an intensive, hands-on learning project into the mechanisms and subtleties of the state government process.
SC Bar Foundation Executive Director Shannon Scruggs remarked, “The Bar Foundation has been a long time funder of SC Youth in Government. We are particularly pleased that our dollars go to support students in Title I schools who otherwise would not have the chance to participate in this life-changing law-related education opportunity.”
Youth in Government officials said the program uses a “service-learning model” in the belief that “leadership is developed by doing.” High school students help provide leadership for middle school programs, while college students, who are alumni of the Youth in Government program, provide leadership for high school programming. All programs are guided and directed by committed adult volunteers and YMCA professional staff.
This is the second year that the SC Bar Foundation’s “Greenville Gathering” has supported the Y, but the Foundation has awarded grants to YIG for several years. The most recent grant awarded to Youth in Government funded scholarships for middle and high school students attending Title One Schools throughout the state, specifically in the state’s I-95 area. The grant also benefits youth and community organizations in low income neighborhoods that typically do not have access or resources for youth to participate in a high-quality, educational extra-curricular activity.
FORMAL DISCLOSURE: CRESCENT’s publisher Taft Matney sits on the board of YMCA Youth in Government and is its 2013 chair.
Published Date : February 15, 2013
Author : admin
As we start to see temperatures give glimpses of brighter days signifying that winter is on the way out (no matter what a groundhog has to say) the first sign that spring is on the way in South Carolina is Charleston’s annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE).
Running from February 15-17, SEWE is celebrating its 31st year and has become the largest event of its kind in the United States.
The three day celebration of outdoor life and wildlife art that takes over the Holy City’s downtown for the weekend each February includes celebrity guests, animal shows, cooking demonstrations by some of the Lowcountry’s most talented chefs, displays of outdoor apparel and equipment, and exhibitions of original art from painters, sculptors, photographers, and local artists. SEWE’s event calendar is packed with events that everyone can enjoy.
When the inaugural Southeastern Wildlife Exposition kicked off in February 1983, it did so with roughly 100 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees. This year, officials believe that SEWE can expect more than 500 exhibitors and over 40,000 in attendance over the weekend.
By their estimates, last year’s event was directly responsible for putting approximately $63.8 million back in to the local economy – more than any other single event in the state.
SEWE officials say that the event’s goal was and remains producing an event that not only significantly contributes to the economy, but that it also promotes nature and wildlife conservation and preservation through its educational outreach programs and visual arts focus.
IMAGE CREDITS: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
Published Date : February 11, 2013
Author : admin
Officials at Myrtle Beach International Airport announced that beginning May 2nd, Canadian carrier WestJet will launch new non-stop service between Toronto and Myrtle Beach with flights using the airline’s fleet of Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft.
WestJet will introduce twice-weekly service on Thursdays and Sundays between Toronto and Myrtle Beach with flights available for purchase now.
“Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular destinations for Canadian vacationers, with more than 90 kilometers (roughly 56 miles) of picturesque beaches, world-class golf, and warm Southern hospitality,” said Chris Avery, WestJet’s Vice-President of Network Planning, Alliances and Corporate Development. “The baggage capacity of our 737 aircraft is ideal for those traveling with golf clubs and our one free checked bag is popular with leisure travelers. Guests will be able to find a variety of packaged vacations featuring ocean-front resorts, condos, and hotels through WestJet Vacations.”
“Our airline partnership strategy continues to complement our growing network and is opening many new markets for our guests,” Avery added.
Details of WestJet’s new non-stop twice-weekly (Thursday and Sunday) service between Toronto and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina include:
| Flight | Departing | Arriving | Effective |
| 1154 | Toronto at 9:30 a.m. | Myrtle Beach at 11:35 a.m. | May 2, 2013 |
| 1155 | Myrtle Beach at 12:20 p.m. | Toronto at 2:14 p.m. | May 2, 2013 |
Introductory one-way fares are:
| Departing | Arriving | Air transportation charges (ATC) |
Taxes, fees and charges |
Total one-way price from |
|
| Base fare from |
Other ATC | ||||
| Toronto | Myrtle Beach | $79 | $7.50 | $80.89 | $167.39*CAD |
*Some restrictions apply. Please see westjet.com for full details.
PHOTO CREDIT: WestJet
Published Date : February 11, 2013
Author : admin
With the goal of helping more students with learning differences and disabilities succeed more quickly, Beaufort Academy (BA) is doubling its efforts by donating more than $400,000 to Coastal Community Foundation to benefit students across Beaufort County.
At the same time, Beaufort Academy’s Learning Center is open to all students — in public schools, religious schools, charter schools and home schools — who need added help with learning differences such as dyslexia, Attention Deficit Disorder, ADHD or basic tutoring and SAT prep services, said Julia Corner, head of school at Beaufort Academy.
“We are the best community resource for college-bound students, and it’s important to note that learning differences and disabilities don’t have any impact on intelligence,” Corner said. “The Beaufort Academy Learning Center provides on-site help, but by donating $400,000 to Coastal Community Foundation, we can help even more students across all of Beaufort County.”
BA’s Learning Center opened about five years ago, funded largely through donations by Beaufort Academy alumni, community leader Malcolm Goodridge and others committed to improving education for all students.
“Donating this block of money to Coastal Community Foundation is the best use of the original contributions to help youngsters with learning disabilities, and it also allows Beaufort Academy to focus on our Learning Center and expanding our services,” said Charles Tumlin, chairman of the BA Board of Trustees.
Because the original donations were made to Beaufort Academy with its non-profit 501(c)(3) tax status, Board members felt it most appropriate to donate the remaining funds to Coastal Community Foundation, also a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
The Foundation will manage the endowment in perpetuity, helping it to grow so that money always will be available to students in need of help, said Edna Crews, regional vice president for Coastal Community Foundation.
“Everybody seems happy with how this is working out,” she said. “When the Beaufort Academy Board of Trustees made the decision to donate their funds to us, it ensured that the fund will grow to benefit children with learning differences forever.
“At the same time, it enables Beaufort Academy to focus on what they do so well, which is help college-bound students succeed no matter what their learning style or learning difference,” said Crews.
Funds will be distributed through competitive applications and schools, churches, government organizations and public charities may apply, Crews said. The mission of Coastal Community Foundation is to foster philanthropy for the lasting good of the community.
Services provided at Beaufort Academy’s Learning Center include:
Coastal Community Foundation began in 1974 with $9,000 from The Rotary Club of Charleston. Today they manage over $150 million in combined assets held in over 620 individual funds. Thousands of donors are served and charitable organizations supported throughout eight coastal Carolina counties.
Beaufort Academy is an independent college preparatory school on Lady’s Island serving pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students from across the Lowcountry.
PHOTO CREDIT: Beaufort Academy
Published Date : February 10, 2013
Author : admin
If there’s someone who needs to be a part of a magazine about South Carolina, who better than someone who eats, sleeps, and breathes South Carolina every day?
Because Tiffany Linder fits the bill so well, she was recently named CRESCENT’s Director of Advertising and Sponsorship.
A Clemson graduate with a B.A. in Business Marketing, Tiffany began promoting the state during college as a contestant in the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Organization where she also found her passion in promoting awareness and decreasing incidents of child abuse and neglect.
Working for and with numerous non-profits since 2004, Tiffany continues her involvement with the Miss America Organization, and in her spare time serves as the Local Executive Director for multiple organization pageants. In fact, over the past four years, her pageant contestants have placed in the top five two out of four times at Miss South Carolina and three out of four times at Miss South Carolina Teen – including this year’s winner and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen 2013 Rachel Wyatt.
A resident of Spartanburg, Tiffany makes no secret why she loves her state. “I love the quality of life that it offers. South Carolina offers such a variety in terms of culture, entertainment, recreation, and the performing arts, but even above all of these, if I’m being honest, it’s the food in South Carolina that has the truest hold on me.”
For a complete media kit, questions about advertising with CRESCENT, or to discuss how CRESCENT can effectively help promote your brand, contact Tiffany Linder at tiffany@crescentmag.com.
Published Date : February 9, 2013
Author : admin
On Thursday night, drilling a fadeaway turnaround jumper with 8:07 in the second quarter, former Mauldin High School standout Kevin Garnett became the 16th player in NBA history to score 25,000 career points.
During the next play stoppage, the team publicly acknowledged Garnett’s achievement, and the crowd came to its feet in a standing ovation. The Celtics’ center-forward expressed his appreciation and waved to the fans in response.
The night ended with the Celtics beating the LA Lakers 116-95. Garnett’s night netted 15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals that took him to 25,009 career points.
Membership in the 25,000 point club puts him in the ranks of NBA greats like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,387), Karl Malone (36,928), Michael Jordan (32,292), Wilt Chamberlain (31,419), Kobe Bryant (30,834), Shaquille O’Neal (28,596), Moses Malone (27,409), Hakeem Olajuwon (26,946), Oscar Robertson (26,710), Dominique Wilkins (26,668), John Havlicek (26,395), Alex English (25,613), and Reggie Miller (25,279).
Last month, Garnett passed Patrick Ewing for 16th place on the all-time scoring list, and as Celtics radio play-by-play announcer Sean Grande noted on his Twitter page Thursday, KG also takes his place in NBA history as the only person with at least 25,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, 5,000 assists, 1,500 blocks and 1,500 steals.
Talking to reporters after hitting Thursday’s milestone, one he said he was unaware of prior to the game, Garnett said, “I’m sure someday I’ll fall back and rock in my rocking chair having a cigar thinking about what I’ve done. I’m sure it will make some sense to me then.”
He added, “I bleed green and I’ll continue to do that. If it’s up to me, I’m going to retire a Celtic. I just want y’all to know that.”
PHOTO CREDITS: Kevin Garnett on Facebook
Published Date : February 9, 2013
Author : admin
A bill introduced this week in the state House aims to limit use of unmanned aerial vehicles commonly known as drones.
Representative Dan Hamilton (R-Greenville) introduced the legislation saying it will protect “individual privacy against unwarranted government intrusion” and added that his bill “will protect the personal privacy of South Carolinians.”
“I believe the use of drones by police and other government agencies should be strictly controlled by state laws that protect the privacy and civil rights of all South Carolinians,” Hamilton said. “This legislation prohibits the use of drones by law enforcement unless a warrant has been issued, provides for public monitoring and accountability, requires policies and procedures be adopted by public bodies and mandates pictures of individuals acquired by drones be destroyed unless they are part of an authorized investigation,” he added.
Hamilton said that in recent years, drones have become less expensive and more accessible to law enforcement and government agencies and that as a result, privacy concerns and the need for public oversight of drone use needs to be established.
According to Hamilton, if enacted, the bill would:
“As technology rapidly advances, our state needs to update our laws before the use of drones becomes widespread so we can protect the individual rights of our citizens. This legislation will help us do just that,” Hamilton concluded.
The full text of H. 3514 can be found at: http://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess120_2013-2014/bills/3514.htm
PHOTO CREDIT: United States Navy / Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Daniel J. McLain
Published Date : February 8, 2013
Author : admin
Four International PGA TOUR Professionals are scheduled to play in the RBC Heritage. KJ Choi, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell and Rory Sabbatini have all committed to the 45th annual event, taking place April 15-21, 2013 over the Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island.
They will be joined by former RBC Heritage winners, including defending champ Carl Pettersson, Brandt Snedeker, Stewart Cink, Glen Day, Jim Furyk, Justin Leonard and Boo Weekley. The entire group will be shooting for the top prize of $1,044,000 from a purse of $5,800,000.
Choi has only played Harbour Town twice, most recently in 2010. The South Korea native who now lives in Westlake, Texas has won eight times on the PGA TOUR and has earned more than $27 million. He has one top ten finish this year after carding a first round 65 at the Farmers Insurance Open.
Kaymer turned pro in 2005, but just joined the PGA TOUR this year. This will be his first start at the RBC Heritage. The 28-year-old German has won twice in the states including his first major at the 2010 PGA Championship and the 2011 WGC – SBC Champions but has ten international victories.
McDowell recently signed on as an RBC Ambassador and immediately told his fans he would be attending the RBC Heritage. It will be his fourth time competing at Harbour Town. The Northern Ireland native earned international respect in 2010 when he won the U.S. Open Championship. He was the first European to win the major since 1970. He also has six international victories since turning pro in 2002.
Sabbatini is originally from Durban, South Africa but after attending the University of Arizona settled down in Fort Worth, Texas. He has competed at Harbour Town three times, tying for 8th place in 2009. He has won six times on the PGA TOUR and has earned more than $25 million.
Published Date : February 8, 2013
Author : admin
If SC House leaders have their say, the General Assembly will spend less time in Columbia.
For the 10th time in 20 years, the South Carolina House of Representatives has approved legislation providing for a constitutional amendment that would shorten the state’s legislative session.
“It is no secret that we have one of the longest legislative sessions in the country, and it is extraordinarily long given the size of our state,” said House Majority Leader Bruce Bannister (R-Greenville). “As it has nine times before, this goes to the state Senate, where we hope it will be approved quickly.”
The joint resolution was approved 91-9. If approved by two-thirds of the Senate, the question would go before the voters in November 2014.
The proposal shortens the legislative session by one month at the end – closing the session on the first Thursday in May rather than the first Thursday in June. In addition, it would keep the General Assembly from meeting in statewide session during the month of January, but still allows legislative committees to meet during that time to debate legislation.
“We do important work in Columbia, and there are great needs to address the issues important to the state,” said Assistant Majority Leader Gary Simrill (R-York). “That said, the General Assembly can, and should, be more efficient with our time. That’s a win-win for taxpayers and the part-time legislature.”
Published Date : February 7, 2013
Author : admin
Senator Kevin Bryant (R-Anderson)
South Carolinians will have their data protection strengthened under a new bill introduced by Senators Kevin Bryant and Billy O’Dell.
In light of the recent Department of Revenue data breach, a special Senate committee was formed and headed by Senators Bryant and O’Dell. The two have been working toward solutions aimed at preventing a cyber hacking from happening again.
The bill, S.334, would authorize the extension of identity theft protection and fraud resolution services for victims for up to 10 years. It would also create an Identity Theft Unit within the Department of Consumer Affairs as well as creating a Department of Information Security. The Identity Theft Unit would be responsible for educating the public about identity theft and fraud and provide fraud resolution services to victims, while the Department of Information Security would develop statewide policies, standards, programs, and services related to cyber security.
“This bill is a starting point for us,” said Senator Bryant. “Achieving the level of cybersecurity the people of this state deserve is a work in progress, and Senator O’Dell and I will not give up until we reach that level.”
Senators Bryant and O’Dell said they have no intention of slowing down until they reach their goal for cybersecurity in South Carolina. If passed, this bill will bring the state one step closer in its efforts to prevent another cyber security breach from occurring in the future, according to the senators.
Published Date : February 7, 2013
Author : admin
BMW Manufacturing President Josef Kerscher (Center) and Robert Nitto, BMW Group Vice President, Government Relations, Americas (Left) tour with U.S. Senator Tim Scott (Right).
Late last week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott made his first visit to BMW’s manufacturing facility in Upstate, South Carolina — meeting with the company’s management team, touring the plant, and reviewing BMW’s expansion plans for the 4.0 million square foot campus.
The company is currently investing $900 million to add 1.6 million square feet of production and logistics space and increase its production volume to 350,000 units annually by the end of 2014.
“We welcome the visit by Senator Scott and the opportunity to showcase BMW’s contribution to South Carolina’s workforce development and manufacturing competitiveness,” said Josef Kerscher, President of BMW Manufacturing.
“I want to thank Mr. Kerscher and the BMW team for welcoming me to their facility in Greer,” Senator Scott said. “It was great to meet so many hardworking folks on the plant floor– the men and women who help shape the backbone of our state’s economy. I know BMW will continue to thrive in the Upstate for years to come, and I look forward to seeing their relationship with South Carolina continue to flourish.”
PHOTO CREDIT: BMW Manufacturing
Published Date : February 6, 2013
Author : admin
The Reserve at Lake Keowee Community Foundation announced its 2013 concert lineup earlier this week.
The events, which are free and open to the public, are “a part of The Foundation’s mission to offer enriching cultural and community activities,” according to a foundation spokesperson.
Poinsett Piano Trio Concert
February 22, 7:00 p.m. at Founders Hall at The Reserve at Lake Keowee
Founded in 2008, the Poinsett Piano Trio includes pianist David Gross, violinist Deirdre Hutton, and cellist Christopher Hutton, all of Greenville S.C. The trio has played concerts across the United States and in New Zealand, and embarked on their first European tour in the summer of 2012.
Princeton Nassoons Concert
March 23, 7:00 p.m. at Founders Hall at The Reserve at Lake Keowee
The Princeton Nassoons, the oldest a cappella ensemble at Princeton University and the third oldest collegiate group in the nation, are widely regarded as one of the finest a cappella performance ensembles in the United States. Founded in 1941, the Nassoons have been touring domestically and internationally for over 65 years. Their repertoire covers a wide range of music from the 1940’s to very recent arrangements. The group is currently comprised of seventeen Princeton University undergraduates, and the songs feature five and six part harmonies. The Nassoons’ show is a combination of music, comedy, and showmanship.
Clemson University’s TIGEROAR Concert
April 16, 7:00 p.m. at Founders Hall at The Reserve at Lake Keowee
As Clemson University’s all-male a cappella group, Tigeroar has been performing a variety of musical genres since 1997.
Second Hand Jazz Band Concert
June 22, 6:30 p.m. at The Amphitheatre at The Reserve at Lake Keowee
Second Hand Jazz is a modern jazz group with a new take on old favorites. Playing original modern jazz as well as jazz/fusion standards and intense improvisations, Second Hand Jazz has Shaun Ritchie on bass, Matt Dingledine on guitar, and Tim Blackwell on the drums.
Sean David Anderson Concert
December 20, 7:00 p.m. at Founders Hall at The Reserve at Lake Keowee
Sean David Anderson is a critically acclaimed operatic baritone singer, who began his career at the age of 10. Some of his notable achievements include debuting with New York City Opera in the fall of 2007 as the Judge in Margaret Garner, performing the role of Marcello in Baz Luhrman’s Bohème on Broadway, and singing the title role in the Italian premiere of Argento’s Casanova. Most recently, Anderson performed Iago in Sarasota Opera’s take on Verdi’s Otello, debuted the role of Valentin with the Indianapolis Opera’s production of Faust, performed as Captain Corcoran in H.M.S. Pinafore with Opera New Jersey, and closed 2012 with Knoxville Opera’s Die Fledermaus.
While the events are free, Foundation officials ask that concert attendees RSVP to (864) 481-4010 or kgravely@reservekeowee.com.
Published Date : February 5, 2013
Author : admin
Today, former U.S. Senator and Heritage Foundation President-designate Jim DeMint announced the launch of the Palmetto Policy Forum, an independent, South Carolina-based think tank.
DeMint, who is investing a portion of his remaining campaign funds to help establish the group, will also serve as its Founding Chairman.
Joining him on the forum’s founding board is a roster of notable South Carolina leaders including Dan Adams (President and CEO of The Capital Corporation), Gresham Barrett (former US Congressman, member of the government relations team at Nelson, Mullins, Riley & Scarborough, and Stewardship Director of NewSpring Church), Michael Brenan (Group/State President of BB&T), Michael McBride (Chairman of the Board of Directors of HMR Veterans Services, Inc.), and Stu Rodman (Founder and Vice-Chairman of the Board).
The organization will be led by president and CEO Ellen Weaver — a seasoned veteran of policy, communications, and politics. Weaver worked with DeMint in both Washington and South Carolina, most recently serving as his State Director. She will assume full-time duties with Palmetto Policy Forum on March 4 to help complete the transition between the former DeMint office and newly-appointed US Senator Tim Scott.
Dr. Oran Smith, current president of the Palmetto Family Council and an advocate for conservative policy in South Carolina, will join the staff as Senior Fellow — focusing on legislative research and policy innovation.
Kate Middleton Maroney, who worked for US Representative Trent Franks on Capitol Hill, will join the staff as Executive Assistant and oversee management of new media outreach.
During the announcement, DeMint said, “I am pleased to have this opportunity to invest in Palmetto Policy Forum and the future success of the state I love. I believe South Carolina can lead the nation with the most principled, powerful, and effective conservative advocates in America. The Forum will play a key role in cultivating the bold and visionary ideas that we know form the ladder of opportunity for every American. In my new role at The Heritage Foundation, I look forward to working with Palmetto Policy Forum and like-minded groups all around the country to lead an opportunity renaissance that speaks to the dreams and aspirations of every American.”
“South Carolina needs an organization that will develop a broad spectrum of well-researched policies, rooted in conservative principles and promoted in a positive, coalition-building way. There is no reason why South Carolina cannot lead the nation in passing market-based policies that we know form the foundation of long-term economic and social success. On behalf of the Board, we look forward to the work ahead,” said Founding Board Member, Mike Brenan.
Forum Senior Fellow, Dr. Oran Smith said, “An opportunity like Palmetto Policy comes along once in a lifetime. I am honored to add a portfolio at The Forum to my duties as president of Palmetto Family. Positive, conservative but winsome policy entrepreneurship is what South Carolina needs, and that is what Jim DeMint and The Forum represent.”
Forum President Ellen Weaver added, “Our challenge – and opportunity – is to develop principle-based policies and to promote them in a way that connects back to the shared values of people all over South Carolina. By promoting best-practice conservative ideas from around our state and nation, we can show the way forward to increased opportunity for all. It has been an honor to serve in the DeMint office for the past 12 years and I am humbled to have now been asked to oversee this exciting new venture. I look forward to the chance to work with our board, staff and South Carolina leaders to launch positive policy solutions for the future of our state and those willing to follow South Carolina’s lead.”
Until The Forum’s website is live, more information is available at the organization’s Facebook page: facebook.com/PalmettoPolicyForum.
UPDATE: The Forum’s website is now live at palmettopolicy.org. They are also on Twitter at twitter.com/palmettopolicy.