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Upcountry History Museum

Visitors will be transported to treasured landscapes across the country in “Clyde Butcher’s America the Beautiful” exhibition opening at the Upcountry History Museum – Greenville County, a Smithsonian Affiliate, on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Each of the 43 large-scale photographs of sites from the Redwood forests to the Gulfstream waters and beyond showcase countless diverse places of wilderness and beauty found in the public natural lands dedicated to the enjoyment and inspiration of this and future generations.

Renowned for his talent, technique, and artistic vision, Clyde Butcher has established himself as one of the premier photographers in the world, devoting himself as much to the process of taking pictures as to finding the places to chronicle on film. Still using an 8 x 10 wooden large-format view camera from the 1940s and loading only black and white film, Butcher creates an extraordinary depth of field through a synthesis of wide-angled lenses and a small lens opening.

This unmatched range of photographs features a stunning collection of Butcher’s best work from a career that has led him to some of America’s most stunning and precious natural landscapes while highlighting his passion for preserving these spaces for generations to come.

Visitors will also be able to see what Butcher sees as they can stand behind one of his wooden large-format view cameras which is included in the exhibition. “Clyde Butcher’s America the Beautiful” will be on exhibit from Saturday, Feb. 15 through May 25, 2025.

The Upcountry History Museum is located at 540 Buncombe St., in Greenville, S.C. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Sunday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 864-467-3100 or visit www.upcountryhistory.org.

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THS Constructors, Inc.

GREENVILLE, SC | February 12, 2025 — THS Constructors, Inc., a leading design-build construction management firm in Greenville, South Carolina, is proud to announce its expansion into the Spartanburg market. In a strategic move to position itself for growth, THS has purchased Solesbee Construction and established an office in Spartanburg at 1 Real Estate Way.

Founded in 2005, THS has built a reputation for excellence with a strong foundation in industrial construction. While industrial projects will always remain at the core of its operations, the company is broadening its scope to include a more diverse range of projects.

“Spartanburg is a thriving market, and we are excited to bring our expertise and commitment to quality construction to this community,” says President and CEO of THS, Dana Emberton. “The acquisition of Solesbee Construction allows us the opportunity to expand our capabilities into new sectors and areas of the state.”

Solesbee Construction, established in Spartanburg in 1936, has had a pivotal role in growing the community throughout the years with an extensive portfolio of church, medical, office, and retail buildings in the area. The previous owner, Tim Thompson, is the grandson of founder James Solesbee and current Vice President of Preconstruction of THS.

Thompson shares, “Since joining THS in 2016, I have witnessed its commitment to excellence in construction first-hand. I knew this was the right move for both THS and Solesbee, and we are thrilled to be a part of the Spartanburg community.”

Since opening its doors in Spartanburg and acquiring Solesbee Construction, THS has already secured multiple key projects in the area, including the construction of Xytel, Inc.’s expansion project. This growth marks a significant milestone for THS as it continues to expand its services and diversify its project portfolio.

For more information on THS, please visit www.thsconstructors.com.

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Wagner Wealth Management’s Koch named to GSA’s Forty under 40

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Koch, a wealth advisor with Wagner Wealth Management, has been named to GSA Business Report’s Forty Under 40 list for 2025.

GSA Business Report’s Forty Under 40 celebrates the success and community involvement of 40 professionals under age 40 who are making their mark on the Upstate from a mix of industry, professional, and community sectors.

Nominations for the award are submitted annually by businesses,
organizations, and individuals. Judges independently score the nominations, and
40 emerge from the pool of candidates for the final list of honorees.

Koch joined Wagner Wealth Management in 2024 and has 10 years of
experience in the financial services industry. A graduate of the College of
Charleston with a degree in International Business, he started his wealth
management career early, securing his Series 7, Series 66, and Life and
Variable Annuity Insurance licenses while still in college.

Outside of Wagner Wealth Management, Koch actively supports First
Tee, a non-profit dedicated to making golf affordable and accessible for
children from all backgrounds. Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, Koch
has developed a love for South Carolina. He and his wife, Lauren, along with
their two children, are proud to call the Upstate their home.

“We are very proud of Clay,” said Dan Wagner, Founder and CEO of
Wagner Wealth Management. “His dedication to helping others reach their
financial goals has made a significant impact, and we’re thrilled to see him
recognized for his hard work and success.”

About Wagner Wealth Management:

Wagner Wealth Management specializes in helping individuals and
companies reach their personal and professional goals. Wagner Wealth
Management currently advises on more than $1.5 billion in client assets; their
experience is diverse, exceptional, and ready to work. The firm has offices in
Anderson, Greenville, and Seneca. Learn more at www.wagnerwealthmanagement.com.

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Rebuild Upstate

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Rebuild Upstate, a local nonprofit that serves low-income homeowners in the Upstate, is hosting its annual silent auction fundraiser, A Toast To Home, on February 28.

This cocktail-style event will feature a brief program about affordable home preservation, delectable hors d’oeuvres and beverages by Larkin’s Catering, entertainment by the Greenville Youth Jazz Collective, and a silent auction filled with unique treasures and experiences. Funds raised will support Rebuild Upstate’s home repair program.

CEO Jake Beaty says, “We are excited to gather with those who care about our neighbors in need to celebrate the importance of home. Every toast, every bid, and every donation will help us ensure that more families in the Upstate community can feel the warmth and security of a safe home through our repair program.”

Tim Womack, Aging Services Director for South Carolina Appalachian Council of Governments, will be honored with Rebuild Upstate’s Community Champion award during the event. This annual award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the Upstate community.

A Toast To Home is happening on Friday, February 28 at 6 p.m. at Larkins Sawmill, 22 Graves Dr., Greenville. Silent auction items include local merchandise, art, weekend stays, signed sports memorabilia, and more.

Volunteers, donors, and community advocates who have a passion for low-income neighbors, older adults, veterans, and the health and safety of the community at large are invited to attend.

Tickets are available to purchase for $75 per person. Purchase tickets here: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/atoasttohome2025/

Tickets for the event are tax-deductible thanks to the generous support of event sponsors:

NAI Earle Furman
Founders Federal Credit Union
Spinks Family Foundation
United Bank
First Citizens Bank
South State Bank
LMG Architects
Gallagher
Finnern Consulting
HomeTrust Bank

About Rebuild Upstate:
Rebuild Upstate serves low-income homeowner

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Junior League of Greenville

The Junior League of Greenville will commemorate a remarkable 95 years of service to the Greenville community with an exciting and elegant fundraising gala, Celebrating With Purpose: Mardi Gras Magic, on March 1, 2025. The event honors the organization’s decades of commitment to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Funds raised will further support this mission.
The evening will transport guests to the lively and vibrant atmosphere of Mardi Gras, blending festive traditions with the Junior League’s long-standing commitment to improving the Greenville community. The event’s festivities will include a delightful mix of entertainment by the Erica Berg Collective, food catered by The Lost Cajun, and philanthropy, making it an unforgettable celebration.
The event is not only about fun and festivities—it is a true reflection of the Junior League’s dedication to the community. Throughout its 95 years, the League has been a powerful force for positive change, empowering women and supporting initiatives that address critical needs in Greenville. The gala aims to raise funds to continue this important work, ensuring that the league can support even more local programs and initiatives for years to come.
“The Mardi Gras Magic gala is an opportunity not only to celebrate our 95th anniversary but also to raise awareness about the importance of the grants and volunteer services we provide to local organizations,” said Sarah Brand, Junior League of Greenville President. “Our members volunteer and fund critical programs that directly impact the lives of people in our community, and this event is a way to celebrate the positive change we are creating together.”
In addition to the hundreds of trained leaders, the Junior League awards capacity-building grants to local nonprofits that support essential services for women, children, and families. For the 2023-2024 cycle, the League distributed $50,000 in grant

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McMillan Pazdan Smith

Ren McKean has joined MPS as Chief People Officer and is based in the MPS Atlanta studio in Midtown, fulfilling a crucial role in shaping the firm’s on-going talent development and recruitment efforts.

McKean brings global HR expertise with a history of building and leading high-performing teams in remote, hybrid and on-site settings.

“Ren is a great addition to our management team,” says McMillan Pazdan Smith’s CEO Chad Cousins, “Her drive and passion for fostering a workplace where professional development can thrive will extend to the quality we can provide clients through design and advisory services.”

“As a servant leader, I have a deep respect for the fact that firmwide accomplishments never happen without the exceptional work of many dedicated individuals,” says McKean, “Empowering team members to follow rewarding personal career paths are central to a strong culture and future success.”

McMillan Pazdan Smith’s purpose of “doing good for all” includes prioritizing investments in team member professional growth.

The firm is actively hiring for several key roles.

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Meyer Center for Special Children

The Meyer Center for Special Children announced the return of the Kids Classic Clarence Edwards Golf Tournament on Tuesday, May 6. Now in its 37th year, the Kids Classic raises funds to continue the vision of Dr. Meyer and support the nonprofit’s mission of providing education and intensive therapy services to empower children with disabilities to reach their maximum potential. Presented by Mike Kaplan & Green Valley Country Club, Greenville Maintenance Services Inc. & Tommy Jenkins, and Tommy & Shounda Foster, participants in the Kids Classic will have the opportunity to play 27 holes of golf on one of six courses—Bright’s Creek, Cliffs Valley, Country Club of Spartanburg, Green Valley, Greenville Country Club Riverside, or Kenmure Country Club.
To learn more and register for the event, visit www.meyercenter.org or email Alyssa Bonner at abonner@meyercenter.org.

About the Meyer Center for Special Children
Seventy years ago, Dr. Leslie Meyer founded the Meyer Center with a belief that every child, regardless of disabilities, could benefit from quality education and therapy services. Dr. Meyer’s vision carries through today, where students receive life-changing treatment through a curriculum focusing on social and emotional learning, daily living skills, music, dance, movement, group exercise and field trips – improving their quality of life, and their families’ quality of life. A South Carolina Public Charter School for students ages three and up, the Meyer Center is the only place in Upstate SC where young children with disabilities can receive all their special education and intensive therapies under one roof, allowing parents the flexibility to work or care for other family members. A place where children often make their first friends, learn to feed themselves and tie their own shoes, the Meyer Center celebrates the impact – both measurable and immeasurable – of 70 years of service to our state’s children with disabilities.

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Chad Charles of Charles & Associates Inc. named Lakelands HBA president

GREENWOOD, S.C. – One of the region’s most respected builders has been named president of theLakelands Homebuilders Association.

Chad Charles is the president of Charles & Associates, and is a lifelong resident of Greenwood. He and his wife are the proud parents of three children (two sons and a daughter) and grandparents to three.

A fourth-generation builder, Charles honed his skills alongside his grandfather and father, gaining experience in both residential construction and custom cabinetry. He founded his own remodeling company in 1998.

Following a successful battle with cancer in 2010, Charles dedicated the next few years to serving the community. He held leadership roles at Habitat for Humanity of Greenwood, and at the state and local levels.

His contributions to the industry have been recognized with the Champion of Housing Award from both the Horry Georgetown Homebuilders Association and the Homebuilders Association of South Carolina.

He is deeply committed to his family, faith, and the continued success of the construction industry.

“This is a great personal honor, and one that humbles me,” he said. “The Lakelands HBA is an amazing organization that I have long supported, and I look forward to serving as president and helping us to be

a strong advocate for builders.”

About Charles & Associates:

Charles & Associates remains at the forefront of the industry, embracing the latest trends, technologies, and energy-efficient practices to deliver exceptional results that exceed client expectations. Learn more at www.carepairremodel.com.

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Habitat Greenville dedicates Women’s Build House

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County welcomed home Amber Meihofer’s family Thursday afternoon.

Meihofer and her family are the new owners of a home on Sturtevant Street in part due to the efforts of the Habitat Greenville Women’s Build, an annual program where women from across the community come together to help construct a home.

It was sponsored by Spero Financial, BASF, DRB Homes and Bitsy Cazel from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner Realtors. Grants provided by: South Carolina Realtors Association and the W.W. Burgiss Charities. Other partners include Greenville County Redevelopment Authority as well as Nimble Thimble Quilter’s Guild, Carol Hoffman and Greg Hammond.

Sturtevant Street came about after Creative Builders and Fitch Irick developed The Assembly Apartments, a rental community featuring 284 units built over two phases between 2017 and 2022. There was a remaining parcel of 1.708 acres that was not going to be used. The companies donated the property to Habitat Greenville to facilitate the construction of nine homes.

“The Women’s Build is one of the cornerstones of Habitat Greenville,” said LaTonya Phillips, CEO and President of Habitat Greenville. “Women and children are the most likely to be affected by poor living conditions, and the Women’s Build provides the opportunity for women to take a proactive step in serving their communities.”

For Meihofer, this completes a journey she started six year ago with her four kids when she was encouraged by her friend and fellow Habitat homeowner, Lavonia Owens, to apply. She was actually not accepted her first time, but reapplied last year. She and her children are most excited to pick out paint for rooms, plant flowers in the front yard and simply make the house their own.

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.

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InvestiNet

Greenville, S.C. – InvestiNet, a full-service collections network and innovation leader in the accounts receivable industry, has announced the promotion of Amy Nodine from executive vice president to chief compliance officer. As CCO, Nodine will continue to drive excellence by ensuring the organization adheres to the highest standards of compliance, meeting the evolving collection needs of the financial services industry and exceeding client expectations.

Nodine has over 25 years of experience in the financial and collections industries throughout a career marked by expertise, innovation and leadership. Nodine, who has worked for InvestiNet since its founding in 2011, has played an instrumental role in shaping the organization, and its culture, with her contributions spanning nearly every area of the company.

“Amy’s leadership, operational expertise, and dedication to risk mitigation have been instrumental in driving InvestiNet’s success,” said Brice Smith, CEO of InvestiNet. “Her deep understanding of the financial sector, combined with her commitment to compliance excellence and her ability to deliver value for our clients and partners, make her the ideal person to lead our compliance efforts.”

Nodine began her career in the conforming mortgage market before transitioning to the secondary mortgage market, where she led a team responsible for post-sale support for a mortgage originator. Nodine’s previous experience included working with one of the nation’s largest purchasers of distressed assets. During her tenure there, she successfully created, developed and managed three key departments: contract management, customer service and credit bureau management.

Outside of her professional achievements, Nodine is deeply committed to mentoring and empowering others. She serves as a board member of the Greenville Professional Women’s Forum and is an advocate for the development of young professionals in the collections industry.