PUMPKINTOWN, SC – The legendary Soapstone Baptist Church Fish Fry is coming back for an encore this September.
As a spry 83-year-old, Mable Owens Clarke said “it’s no big deal to plan a lunch for several hundred of her friends and supporters” one more time in order to support the historic church tucked away in the hills of Pickens County.
It will be held Saturday, September 13 from noon to 6 p.m. at Soapstone Baptist Church, 296 Liberia Road, Pickens, SC
This is rain or shine / eat on the grounds or in the dining hall or take out. It is $30 per person all-inclusive with 100% of proceeds to benefit Soapstone Baptist Church. As an added bonus, guests will be able to tour the restored and refurbished Century-old one-room school before or after they eat.
“If you’ve never had the opportunity to enjoy one of Mable’s meals, you don’t want to miss it,” said Carlton Owen, President of the Soapstone Preservation Endowment. “For 22 years Mable hosted such lunches once each month, 10 months of each year, to support the church founded by her emancipated great grandparents.”
Clarke is the sixth-generation steward and matriarch of Soapstone Baptist Church (soapstonechurch.com). In 1999, her mother on her death bed made Mable promise to never let the historically Black church in the Liberia community of Pickens County close. As part of her mission, Clarke began doing monthly fish fries for the community.
The effort to preserve Soapstone Church has generated interest from across South Carolina and beyond over recent years. Soapstone Baptist Church was founded in the mid-1860s when freed slaves from surrounding South Carolina counties sought a path from being property to owning property. They felt God led them to this hilltop in Pickens County and used them and this land to change generations. It is currently the oldest active Black church in Upstate South Carolina.
An Endowment was created in 2022 to help manage and protect this important property and oversee the preservation o
Category: Press Release
GREENVILLE, SC — The Greenville Housing Authority will be providing approximately 50 vouchers to current homeless persons in Greenville to help them find new housing under a new program known as Voucher Action Sprint.
Working with Greenville Together, the Greenville Housing Fund and various community partners serving the homeless, Voucher Action Sprint is a significant step to address homelessness in the greater Greenville community. Together, the organizations will provide approximately 50 vouchers to people currently experiencing homelessness in Greenville, helping them move from the streets into stable housing.
Applicants will be referred directly from shelters and qualified service providers, said Terril Bates, Chief Executive Officer of TGHA. The vouchers will prioritize individuals who are currently unhoused and seeking affordable rent.
“This is more than just providing vouchers, it’s about opening the door to stability, safety, and hope,” Bates said. “This is a great opportunity to work collectively with our community to improve the situation of homelessness in Greenville.”
To encourage participation, TGHA’s landlord incentive program offers one month of contract rent for units that have never been listed with the program, and one month of contract rent for landlords who have never participated before. Interested landlords can email landlord@TGHA.net with “homeless” in the subject line.
This initiative builds on the recent distribution of seven Mainstream vouchers earlier this year as part of Greenville Together’s Housing Surge, which aims to rehouse 80 households by the end of 2025. Launched in August 2024, Greenville Together grew out of a community task force that recognized the need for bold, innovative approaches to homelessness.
GREENVILLE, S.C. – Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County has added Sherry Barrett, Jonathan
Thrasher, Melissa Huff and Bill Keckeis to its Board of Directors.
Originally from Brunswick, Georgia, Barrett earned a Master of Landscape Architecture at Virginia Tech
and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Georgia. Barrett currently works as a Land
Policy Director at Upstate Forever, where she focuses on strengthening and improving land policy in the
most rapidly growing areas of the Upstate. Her involvement with Habitat began after becoming a
community partner through Upstate Forever and Impact Greenville in 2019.
Thrasher is an experienced engineer currently working with S&ME as Senior Client Developer/Senior
Project Manager. He earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Alabama.
In 2022, Thrasher was honored with the ASCE South Carolina Section Service Award, and the ASCE
Florida Younger Member of the Year Award. Thrasher was also a graduate of Leadership Greenville Class
of ‘51, the Greenville Chamber's premier leadership development program.
A Greenville native, Huff serves as the Foundation Relationships Manager of Christianity Today. She
previously has served in leadership roles for YouthBASE, Greenville Center for Creative Arts, Miracle Hill
Ministries, the Hispanic Alliance of SC, iMAGINE Upstate Festival and Upstate STEM Collaborative
(Clemson University), and the United Way of Greenville County. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from
Samford University and her Master’s in Social Services from the University of Chicago, where she earned
Cum Laude honors from both. She also was a Furman University's Riley Institute Diversity Leaders Initiative Fellow in 2023. Keckeis works as a project executive Messer Construction Company, and has served on the boards for Directions for Youth and Families, and the American Heart Association.
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The Jeffrey Group
By Jeff Herman, investment advisor at The Jeffrey Group
There’s something nagging retirees and those approaching retirement. Even though they are saving at levels recommended by experts and the calculators say they are set, they are begging to worry their nest egg won’t cover a surprise healthcare shock.
Healthcare is a rapidly accelerating expense. In 2023, national health spending jumped 7.5 percent, about $14,500 per person, according to KFF. CMS data shows private insurance spending rose 11.5 percent.
Currently, ACA marketplace subsidies help prop up premiums. Thanks to enhancements from the ARP and Inflation Reduction Act, enrollees saved an average of $705–800 annually, cutting net premiums by roughly 44 percent, per KFF.
But those subsidies expire at the end of 2025. Without them, KFF predicts premiums could rise by 75 percent on average, possibly double in some states. In South Carolina, for example, premiums could jump dramatically without federal support. A Washington Post analysis shows a median proposed hike of 15 percent, with over a quarter of insurers requesting increases of 20 percent or more.
That’s serious sticker shock ahead. Without renewal, millions could lose coverage; those remaining will pay more.
Everyone’s situation is different, but I’ve begun asking clients if their plan can handle a 75 percent rise in healthcare costs or a major premium hike. I’d suggest that you consult with an advisor and stress-test projections. Model for higher healthcare inflation and look at funding sources that provide consistent income and diversification when it matters most.
In retirement, consistent income is critical. You can’t predict healthcare costs five or ten years from now. But you can build a retirement strategy that won’t collapse when the numbers change, one with durable, purpose-driven income streams that keep you in control.
Jeff Herman has 30 years of experience in the financial industry.
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Truliant Federal Credit Union
Truliant Foundation Awards 30 Mini Grants to Community Nonprofits
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – The Truliant Foundation is awarding a total of $45,000 in Community Mini Grant funds to 30 nonprofit organizations across Truliant Federal Credit Union’s footprint to enhance and lift up Truliant member communities.
The Mini Grants program, now in its 17th year, provides community-based, nonprofit organizations with $1,500 in grant funding to support programmatic or capacity-building needs.
“The Truliant Foundation’s Community Mini Grants program empowers nonprofit organizations by providing essential resources to grow their impact,” said Atticus Simpson, executive director of the Truliant Foundation.
“These grant funds help us build relationships that support our most vulnerable populations. They allow us to connect with and provide meaningful help to organizations with fewer resources, ensuring we serve our communities effectively.”
Upstate winners include:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate, Greenville, S.C. – Funds will enhance mentorship programs that prepare youth for academic and career success through exposure to real-world opportunities, skill development, and community partnership initiatives.
First Impression of South Carolina (FISC), Greenville, S.C. – Funds will foster personal development and job readiness programs that help individuals achieve employment and independence.
Mosaic Educational and Arts Program, Greenville, S.C. – Funds will be used for artistic and educational workshops that promote creativity and self-expression among youth.
South Carolina Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Greenville, S.C. – Funds will aid in programs that enhance business opportunities and economic development for the Hispanic community.
YouthBASE, Inc., Greenville, S.C. – Funds will provide educational and life skills training programs aimed at empowering youth to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential.
GREENVILLE, SC – Bill McDonald, Chief of Staff for Lima One Capital, has been named one of HousingWire’s Insiders for 2025.
McDonald oversees key strategic and operational functions that drive Lima One’s growth and manage risk. As head of Construction Management, Valuations, and Asset Management, he plays a vital role in ensuring strong loan performance and a top-tier client experience.
With a rare combination of hands-on experience as a builder, general contractor, and inspector – plus nearly a decade in lending – McDonald bridges the gap between field expertise and institutional success.
He also led the design and execution of Lima One’s new corporate headquarters in downtown Greenville, overseeing everything from layout decisions to construction timelines. The new office space, which opened in July 2025, embodies Lima One’s long-term vision for collaboration and growth.
HousingWire honored 80 Insiders who drive real impact in housing behind the scenes. Now in its 10th year, the award recognizes operational leaders who consistently deliver excellence without seeking the spotlight.
About Lima One Capital
Since its inception in 2010, Lima One Capital has been recognized as the nation’s premier lender for real estate investors and has funded over $10 billion in business purpose real estate loans. With a reach across 46 states, Lima One operates as a capital partner for both real estate investors and brokers by financing residential investment strategies including fix and flips, rental, and new construction. In 2021, Lima One was acquired by real estate investment trust MFA Financial, Inc. (NYSE:MFA), ensuring a consistent source of capital and further cementing Lima One as one of the most dependable private lenders in the United States. For more information, visit limaone.com.
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THS Constructors, Inc.
GREENVILLE, SC | August 11, 2025 — THS Constructors, Inc. (THS), a leading construction management firm in the Southeast, proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Since its founding by Howard Suitt in 2005, THS has grown steadily across the Southeast, building a premier reputation that continues to meet the ever-evolving needs of clients across diverse industries.
This anniversary marks more than just a moment in time—it represents a renewed commitment to the values that have shaped THS since day one. In recognition of this important milestone, the company has proudly unveiled a refreshed brand to better reflect who they are today and where they are headed next.
As a 100% employee-owned firm, the company has thoughtfully refined its values and vision as it was a priority to establish messaging that everyone could align with both internally and externally. The updated visuals display confidence in this new chapter while maintaining the brand recognition and positive distinction THS has built in the industry throughout the years.
President and CEO Dana Emberton says, “This rebrand marks an important step in the continued evolution of THS. As we celebrate 20 years of growth and success, we wanted our brand to reflect not only who we are today, but who we are becoming. This new look and refreshed mission emphasize our dedication to innovation, excellence, and the people who make our work possible—our employee-owners and our valued clients.”
To learn more about this rebrand and THS Constructors, Inc., visit their updated website at www.thsconstructors.com.
ABOUT THS CONSTRUCTORS, INC.
THS Constructors, Inc. (www.thsconstructors.com) is a 100% employee-owned design-build construction management firm. They provide design-build, design-bid-build, and construction management services to clients in the industrial, distribution, healthcare, office, research and development, higher education, and retail markets throughout North & South Carolina and Georgia.
GREENVILLE, S.C. — Reedy Reels: The Greenville Film Festival is accepting film submissions for its 2026 festival happening this March.
This year’s festival features two new categories (Music Video and Creative Commercial) in addition to Short Film (less than 40 minutes), Documentary (less than 40 minutes), College Student Film and High School Student Film. Early submission is due by August 15, regular submission is October 31, and final deadline is December 31.
“As we head into our 11th year, we wanted to open up the categories a little more to allow for more creativity,” said Rhodes Farrell, Executive Director of the festival. “We know a lot of films aren’t narrative and we want to showcase that as well.”
Reedy Reels will take place at the South Carolina Children’s Theatre, located in downtown Greenville, which continues to make lists for its beauty and the city’s reputation for its art scene grows daily.
The city’s love of film is no different. Future filmmakers would be amiss to not submit a film to the Reedy Reels Film Festival and have the chance to network with other filmmakers and film professionals.
Ready to submit a film? All submissions can be completed online, here: https://filmfreeway.com/ReedyReels
“Each year we just continue to see more and more talent,” Farrell said. “We hope any and all filmmakers submit their films for the festival. We can’t wait to see what’s in store.”
About Reedy Reels: The Greenville Film Festival:
Reedy Reels: The Greenville Film Festival promotes the appreciation of the art of filmmaking while generating support for independent filmmakers, especially in the Upstate. The festival will engage the community and create exposure for local filmmaking while building inspiration and new opportunities for local artists. Learn more at reedyreels.com.
[St. Louis, Missouri] — The Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards (FCLB) has honored the South Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners with the prestigious 2025 Wiley/Pennebaker Outstanding Regulatory Board Award. The announcement was made during FCLB’s Annual Conference May 3, 2025, recognizing South Carolina as the leading chiropractic regulatory board in the world this year. This distinguished award is presented annually to a board that exemplifies excellence in chiropractic regulation, public protection, and innovative leadership. The South Carolina Board was recognized for its strong commitment to transparency, education, and ongoing regulatory advancement.
The FCLB commended the board’s achievements:
“Each year, the accomplishments of one board set a new standard for chiropractic regulation. They become a model for other boards while protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
The South Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners has demonstrated outstanding commitment to education, transparency, and professional development. Over the past year, the board has integrated regulatory education into its meetings, supported both new and veteran members through board training, and provided comprehensive rules and regulation education for licensees. The board also promoted transparent governance by live-streaming its meetings to the public.
With a long-standing history of engagement in national regulatory programs and education, including active participation in FCLB initiatives, South Carolina continues to set a high bar for responsible and forward-thinking regulation.”
Photo: Columbia, SC – The South Carolina Board of Chiropractic Examiners, recipient of the 2025 Wiley/Pennebaker Outstanding Regulatory Board Award. Left to right: Dr. Mark Thayer, Dr. Lucian “Luke” Henry, Dr. Michael Coon, Dr. Martia Creighton Thigpen, Dr. Gene Garris, Dr. Iva Battrell Hughes, Dr. Tammy Costello Hales, Dr. Thomas Stetson, (absent: Patricia Garcia).
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Art & Light Gallery
Art & Light Gallery is happy to present “Nature’s Geometry”, a two-person exhibition of work by Bethany Mabee (Peoria, I.L.) and Shannon Woodford (Waxhaw, N.C.) launching on the Art & Light website and in the gallery at 10:00 AM (EST) on Tuesday, September 2 with an opening reception on Friday, September 5 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Nature’s Geometry finds commonality, in two very distinctive painting practices, in the form of color, composition, line and layering.
Shannon Woodford creates multilayered, expressionistic, dramatic snapshots of nature. Working largely in florals, Shannon uses the deceptively everyday nature of her subject matter to explore the hidden depths of their unexpected appeal. She likes exploring as many mediums as possible, and has worked extensively with watercolors, acrylics, and encaustics. Her current focus is in oil paint and mixed-media on canvas. Shannon employs large brush strokes and repeated marks to convey her exploration of the natural world. She loves to stretch her artistic capabilities with the use of a bold color-story, the striking natural juxtaposition of foliage hues, and lush multitextured layers. Shannon draws inspiration from vistas of imperfect beauty searching out under-sung flowers (or even weeds) to coax forth their raw, wild charm.
Bethany Mabee is an abstract painter and textile designer who has spent over 20 years immersed in the interior design industry while simultaneously cultivating her painting and studio practice. Her experiences in interior design serve as pivotal stepping stones in her development of a textile line and remain a constant source of inspiration in her studio work. Each step in Bethany’s process refuels a future process, becoming a symbol of continuous and cyclical expansion. Her work serves as a moving meditation that explores improvisation through interactions with with color and material.