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BASF ECMS honored for community impact in Seneca

Two Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS) have been honored by Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit dedicated to building and delivering beds to children in need.

The BASF Veterans Employee Team (VETS) and EmpowerHER groups received the organization’s Dream Builders distinction, along with a commemorative headboard recognizing their ongoing volunteer efforts.
Since partnering in 2024, BASF ECMS volunteers have given their time and resources to support Sleep in Heavenly Peace by building bedframes, training other volunteers, and supporting bed builds across Oconee County. Their commitment recently earned them the additional responsibility of making their own home bed deliveries to families in need.

“The support from BASF ECMS team member has been invaluable,” Turner said. “Since 2024, BASF ECMS has supported and helped lead eight large bed build events, coordinated six home delivery routes, with four more deliveries planned before the end of 2025. This team has helped us build nearly 220 beds for children in Oconee County. We can’t thank them enough for their support.”

The Westminster chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace started in January of 2024 to help meet a growing need in the local community of children not having actual beds to sleep in. Families in need of assistance can learn more at https://shpbeds.org/chapter/sc-westminster/.

“Our team members have really taken to volunteering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace,” said Tommy Holland, chair of the Seneca VETS Employee Resource Group. “It’s been great to see everyone come together outside of work, using their skills to help others. We’re thankful for the opportunity to give back in a way that meets such a fundamental need—a healthy night’s sleep.”

Tara Craft, Chair of the EmpowerHER ERG added: “EmpowerHER is all about lifting others up, and this partnership has given us a tangible way to do that.”

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Hollingsworth Funds honoriig 25 years of momentous impact on the Greenville Community

GREENVILLE,SC – From reshaping the I-85 corridor through its real estate to spearheading the next generation of affordable housing and economic mobility, HollingsworthFunds has spent the past quarter century creating a better community.

To start this celebration, they have launched an updated website that details the key moment sand milestones it has reached over the decades. Created by Greenville-based Engenius, the new site can be found here.(www.hollingsworthfunds.org/25-anniversary).

“We are proud of what we have accomplished in the past 25 years, but the real excitement is to see what we will be doing in the next 25 years,” said Gage Weekes, President& CEO of Hollingsworth Funds.

Hollingsworth Funds was created by the late John D. Hollingsworth Jr., who led a5,000-employee textile machinery company that spanned 18 countries from a headquarters off of Laurens Road just south of Interstate 85. Although Hollingsworth Funds was originally established in 1976, it was not until shortly after Mr. Hollingsworth’s passing on December 30, 2000, that the bulk of his self-made textile and real estate fortune, valued at $275 million, passed to the organization.

Hollingsworth Funds was charged with allocating that estate in three ways: 45% of its annual distributions was designated to Furman University, 10% to the YMCA of Greenville County, and the remaining 45% to a class of organizations defined asa ny nonprofit organization benefitting Greenville County.  Most of the value of Mr. Hollingsworth’s gift consisted of 42,000 acres of predominantly raw, undeveloped land, meaning the organization did not have readily available cash to distribute grants at the outset, unlike most traditional foundations.

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Bannister, Wyatt & Stalvey Attorneys Recognized in the 2026 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America®

Five attorneys from Bannister, Wyatt & Stalvey have been recognized in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for their work across a wide range of practice areas. In addition, two of the firm’s attorneys earned the distinguished “Lawyer of the Year” designation in Greenville for 2026.

Only one lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the “Lawyer of the Year,” making this a significant and highly coveted accolade. These lawyers are selected based on particularly impressive voting averages received during the peer review assessments. No fees are accepted for consideration or inclusion, ensuring the independence and integrity of the recognition.

2026 “Lawyer of the Year” Awards | Greenville
James Bannister | Criminal Defense: White-Collar
Bruce Bannister | Family Law

For the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, more than 26 million evaluations were analyzed. Only about five percent of lawyers in the U.S. and three percent globally achieve recognition, underscoring the selectivity and credibility of the results.

The Best Lawyers in America® (2026 Edition)
Bruce Bannister (recognized since 2018) | Administrative / Regulatory Law; Family Law; Family Law Arbitration; Family Law Mediation; Government Relations Practice
Oscar Bannister, Jr. (recognized since 1991) | Criminal Defense: General Practice; Criminal Defense: White-Collar; DUI / DWI Defense
James Bannister (recognized since 2008) | Criminal Defense: General Practice; Criminal Defense: White-Collar; DUI / DWI Defense
Jack McDonald (recognized since 2021) | Real Estate Law
Alex Stalvey (recognized since 2024) | Education Law; Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Founded in 1976, Bannister, Wyatt & Stalvey has proudly served Greenville and the Upstate for nearly 50 years, advocating for individuals, families, and businesses while also giving back to the community that supports the firm.

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Converse University

Spartanburg, S.C. — Converse University will welcome innovative music group, Project Trio for the first MoseleyNext concert of the 2025-2025 season. Celebrated for their dynamic stage presence and genre-defying performances, Project Trio redefines traditional chamber music by blending classical, jazz, hip-hop, and world music into a bold, original sound.

This family friendly event promises a performance that’s bold, unforgettable, and full of heart. The performance will take place in Daniel Recital Hall at Converse University on October 17 at 6:30 PM.

Previously featured during the Spartanburg Philharmonic’s recent Espresso Series concert, Project Trio is a passionate, high-energy chamber music group composed of three innovative composer-performers from Brooklyn. Greg Pattillo was the first “beatbox flutist,” and his amazing YouTube videos have garnered over 100 million – yes, that’s right, 100 million – views. Sax player Daniel Berkey and bassist Peter Seymour are high-flying jazz/classical virtuosos themselves.

Hosted by the Petrie School of Music at Converse University, the MoseleyNext micro-series welcomes audience members for short, family-friendly concerts on Friday evenings. These hour-long concerts begin at 6:30 PM and are preceded by a 5:30 PM reception with drinks and appetizers. With its casual setting, earlier start time, and happy hour before the concert, MoseleyNext is the perfect way to kick off the weekend!

The Carlos Moseley Chamber Music Series offers the Upstate community the experience of seeing world-renowned musicians perform in the intimate venue of Converse University’s Daniel Recital Hall. Founded by Carlos DuPré Moseley.

Tickets to this event are $35 for adults and $18 for children and students up to age 22 and include a pre-concert reception beginning at 5:30. For tickets, purchase online or contact the Box Office at Converse by emailing boxoffice@converse.edu or calling 864.596.9018.

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Green Valley Country Club

Green Valley Country Club (“Green Valley”) proudly hosted its first annual Golf & Benefit Concert on September 19th, raising more than $30,000 in support of two impactful organizations: the Meyer Center for Special Children and Folds of Honor – Palmetto State Chapter.

The event combined spirited competition on Green Valley’s 18-hole championship course with an evening concert featuring the country music star duo, LOCASH. The food, music, and revelry united members, guests, and the Upstate community in support of local children and military families.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better kickoff to this new tradition,” said Brian Peeples, Green Valley Managing Partner. “We’re truly grateful to everyone who came out to enjoy the day and support these wonderful causes. Your energy made this event special, and we look forward to building on that momentum in 2026.”

The inaugural tournament and benefit concert not only highlighted Green Valley’s premier amenities but also demonstrated the club’s commitment to serving the community. Plans are already underway for a 2026 event, promising even more excitement and opportunities to give back.

Those interested in joining Green Valley Country Club can apply for membership by contacting Green Valley’s Membership Manager, Tianna Morresi, at tianna@greenvalley.cc and scheduling an in-person visit. Membership options include golf, sports, and social.

Photo courtesy of Craig Edwards Photography.

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Carolina Handling

CHARLOTTE, NC (October 6, 2025) — Carolina Handling, the exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center for South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida’s central time zone, has opened its new 264,544-square-foot facility in Pickens County, South Carolina.
Located at 285 Speedway Boulevard in Easley in the new Speedway Business & Technology Park, the new building consolidates the Upstate operations of the Charlotte, NC-based intralogistics company. It combines the warehouse and office space from four facilities in the Upstate region of South Carolina under one roof.
Carolina Handling was the first tenant at Speedway Business & Technology Park, which is being developed by RealtyLink, LLC, and broke ground on the facility in 2024. The $23.2 million investment from Carolina Handling and RealtyLink will create 100 new jobs in South Carolina over five years.
Carolina Handling marked a milestone this fall, growing to more than 900 associates across its five-state footprint.
“Carolina Handling has experienced extraordinary growth in the past few years. The location in Pickens County, size and features of our new facility will position us for future growth as we continue our evolution from a forklift-only provider to an integrated material handling solutions company. By bringing our operations across the Upstate region of South Carolina under one roof, we’re increasing efficiency while giving customers a place to explore cutting-edge solutions and experience our capabilities firsthand,” said Carolina Handling President & CEO Brent Hillabrand.

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Stokes & Company CPAs

Greenville, SC – Stokes & Company CPAs is excited to welcome Anthony DuMond as the newest Accountant!

Anthony DuMond earned both a Bachelor’s in Financial Management and a Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAcc) from Clemson University. With over two years of accounting experience, he is a member of SCACPA and currently working toward his CPA license. Anthony enjoys simplifying complex financial information to help clients make informed decisions. Outside of work, he loves cooking, baking, golfing, and spending time with his corgi.

About Stokes & Company, CPAs

For over 25 years, Stokes & Company, CPAs has been a trusted partner for businesses and individuals, delivering expert accounting, tax, and advisory services tailored to their unique needs.

Media Contact:

Brad Detandt
Director of Business Development
brad@stokescpas.com
864.242.1418

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Patrick Furman promoted to Managing Broker at Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty

GREENVILLE, SC – Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty has named Patrick as its new Managing Broker for its McDaniel Greene office.
As Managing Broker, Furman will oversee the daily operations by ensuring compliance, mentoring agents and facilitating smooth transitions. He will work directly with Jack Herlong, the agency’s Chief Strategy Office and Broker in Charge for the McDaniel Greenville Office.
A New York native, Patrick joined Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty in 2017 and leads the Furman Group. Personally, he has been named to the agency’s President’s Circle, for high sales volumes numerous times, and the Furman Group has consistently led the company in group sales.
In addition, Patrick also served on the Greater Greenville Association of Realtors Ethics & Grievance Committee in 2020 and 2021, and is now serving a three-year term on the MLS Committee.
“Because he is a top producer who served on the Agent Advisory Committee for over two years, Patrick Furman is well known and widely respected among his fellow agents. He is a natural fit for this additional leadership role, and the obvious choice,” said Joan Herlong, founder and CEO.
About Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty
Herlong Sotheby’s International Realty is one of the leading and most trusted names in real estate in the Upstate of South Carolina. Originally founded by Owner/CEO Joan Herlong as AugustaRoad.com Realty in 2011, the firm has since handled thousands of properties in the Greenville and Upstate area. In 2017, the company affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, becoming Joan Herlong & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty. The company has more than tripled in agent count and production volume since that time. In 2024, it took on its current name. Learn more at www.herlongsir.com.
About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s Intern

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Wilson Associates

Cobblestone Homes and Wilson Associates have launched Leach Street Commons, a unique luxury townhome development marrying the best of Scandinavian-inspired design and gracious Southern living. Currently under construction in a burgeoning neighborhood between The Village and downtown, Leach Street Commons’ 17 2000-2400 sf townhomes incorporate natural wood and materials while blending form and function, creating efficient spaces flooded with natural light and a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living.

Each facet of Leach Street Commons is a labor of love for Cobblestone Homes founder, Tomas Nyblom, a master craftsman and native of Finland, and his family. Cobblestone’s collaborator and design partner for the project is Greenville-based BLOM Design Studio, which was recently honored by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s top 200 residential architects. The principal designers for the project are Tomas’ son and daughter-in-law, Konrad and Heidi Nyblom, who share a passion for blending the efficiency and simplicity of their native Scandinavian design with the architectural vernacular and lifestyle of their adopted home, the American South.

“Buyers looking for something new and fresh in a well-located neighborhood where they can get more for their money and find the comfort they desire should look no further than Leach Street Commons,” noted Wilson Associates Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Nick Carlson. “Cobblestone Homes has built something truly special here that will appeal to the most discerning buyers-from young professionals and families to those looking to downsize or move closer to downtown without sacrificing luxury-and we are excited to share it with Greenville.”

Units are priced from the low $900,000s – $1.2 million. The first owners are set to move in to in late Spring 2026. For more information, visit www.LeachStreet.com.

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DP3 Architects

DP3 Architects is proud to announce that two of its fire station projects have been recognized in the 2025 F.I.E.R.O. Fire Station Design Awards. The program celebrates design excellence and innovation in fire and emergency services facilities nationwide. Submissions are evaluated on functionality, sustainability, community integration, and architectural design.

Taylors Fire Headquarters | Merit Award
Serving as the central hub for Taylors Fire and Rescue, this new headquarters consolidates operations into a single, modern facility designed for efficiency, safety, and community visibility. The station includes four apparatus bays, administrative offices, a training room, and firefighter living quarters.

Simpsonville Fire Headquarters | Recognition Award
The Simpsonville Fire Headquarters is a state-of-the-art facility that supports both administrative functions and emergency response. Featuring three drive-through apparatus bays, offices, training spaces, and firefighter living accommodations, the headquarters is designed to enhance operational readiness while creating a civic presence for the growing community.

“We are thankful that F.I.E.R.O. has chosen to recognize these two stations in South Carolina for their excellence in design, construction, and civic pride by a jury of architects and fire service professionals from across the country. These stations exemplify the vital role that fire stations play in supporting the daily operations of our first responders and the positive impact that they can have on our communities”, says DP3 Architects’ Principal and COO, Michael Pry.

In addition to the award recognition, DP3 Architects had the privilege of hosting a tour of the new Simpsonville Headquarters during this year’s F.I.E.R.O Conference programming. The firm is grateful for the opportunity to connect with first responder professionals and the civic-focused design community.