Categories
Press Release

SJWD Water District

Spartanburg, South Carolina – SJWD Water District (SJWD) is proud to announce the release of its 2024 Water Quality Report, which provides customers with detailed information about the safety, quality, and source of their drinking water.

The report highlights that SJWD continues not only to meet but exceed all state and federal drinking water standards, reaffirming the company’s commitment to delivering clean, safe, and reliable water to the communities it serves.

“At SJWD Water District, our dedicated team of water professionals takes our mission of delivering affordable, high-quality water service to our growing community seriously,” said Billy Cothran, CEO of SJWD. “We recognize that our commitment to protecting our water resources and investing in our treatment and distribution infrastructure is vital for reliable service to our current and future customers.”

Customers can access the full report on SJWD’s website at https://www.sjwd.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2024-CCR.pdf or request a printed copy by visiting the SJWD Administration Campus, located at 198 Watershed Way in Spartanburg.

About SJWD
Originally established in 1956, Startex-Jackson-Wellford-Duncan Water District (SJWD), with its team of dedicated professionals, is committed to providing the highest-quality water services to the rapidly growing western portion of Spartanburg County. For more information, please visit SJWD.com

Categories
Press Release

Upcountry History Museum

Travel back in time to the world of “Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice,” the newest exhibition now open at the Upcountry History Museum-Greenville County, a Smithsonian Affiliate and on display through September 21, 2025.

As visitors cross the threshold into the prehistoric land of the dinosaurs, they will be immersed in an interactive journey that opens up the world of dinosaur habitats to better understand how these mysterious animals lived. In addition, this bilingual experience features three distinctive sections which allow visitors to explore the steamy Land of Fire and the chilly Land of Ice, as well as don goggles and research vests as they uncover dinosaur bones in a dig site and examine fossils in the Field Research Station.

The Land of Fire connects visitors with the prehistoric home of the Triceratops and T-Rex. Children can circle the land in insect costumes, buzz through a volcano with oozing lava, and work through a swampy bog and identify an ecosystem of animals and plants. No coats are needed for a trip across the “land of Ice” where visitors meet two dinosaurs, a Troodon and Edmontosaurus, who made their homes in the cold climate of Alaska. Activities include climbing rocky steps, breezing down an icy slide, and hopping across stepping stones in an icy river.

Young explorers will be fascinated with sculpted, touchable life-sized models that feature the most recent scientific discoveries about dinosaurs’ colors, textures and structural forms – all while investigating clues these prehistoric creatures left behind.

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.

Categories
Press Release

Stokes & Company CPAs

GREENVILLE, SC — May 23, 2025 — Stokes & Company, CPAs proudly celebrates Managing Partner Stephen Stokes being named to the Forbes List of Top CPAs for South Carolina. This honor recognizes professionals delivering not only financial excellence, but also leadership grounded in integrity and service.
Stephen’s selection reflects his decades of trusted guidance to clients and his servant-hearted leadership in the firm, the industry, and the Upstate community. He continues to mentor rising professionals, support nonprofit causes, and lead a firm culture built on excellence and stewardship.
“Stephen’s heart for others is what sets him apart. His leadership isn’t loud. He leads with a genuine desire to see clients, staff, and the community win. This Forbes honor confirms what we’ve known for years.”
As the firm marks its 26th year, this milestone underscores its founding mission: to serve well, lead wisely, and make a lasting difference.
Learn more at www.stokescpas.com
Media Contact:
Brad Detandt
Director of Business Development
brad@stokescpas.com
864.242.1418

Categories
Press Release

Greenville Housing Fund awarded $200,000 Grant

The local affordable housing advocate and developer Greenville Housing Fund was recently awarded a $200,000 Housing for Everyone grant from the TD Charitable Foundation, the giving arm of TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®. GHF is one of 36 nonprofit organizations selected from more than 270 applicants to receive a Housing for Everyone grant as part of the TD Charitable Foundation’s annual, signature program, which has helped support organizations providing affordable housing and affordable housing services since 2005.

Access to housing remains a major issue for individuals and families across the country. But sustaining homeownership amid the increasing costs of maintenance and other economic pressures is just as prevalent of a challenge. This growing burden has put significant financial strain on many households, particularly those with lower incomes, underscoring the need for the TD Charitable Foundation’s 2025 Housing for Everyone grant program. This year’s focus was on supporting organizations that provide solutions through post-purchase support to help those struggling to maintain homeownership due to rising property taxes, increasing home insurance premiums and expensive repairs, for example.

To address some of these challenges, GHF will use the Housing for Everyone grant to support its Homeownership Preservation Program (HOPP), designed to enable long-time homeowners in Greenville’s Special Emphasis neighborhoods, many of which are swiftly gentrifying, to remain owner-occupants, through provision of critical repairs and upgrades. The TD Bank funding will enable an expansion of this successful program, adding elements of wraparound support and counseling to address financial, legal, or community-change challenges facing these low-income homeowners.

Categories
Press Release

Phillis Wheatley Community Center

The Phillis Wheatley Community Center (PWCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mae D. Jones, PhD, MBA, FLMI as its new executive director.
Jones brings a distinguished background in nonprofit leadership, operations, and community development to her new role. She most recently served as executive vice president of the Black Women’s Health Imperative, a national nonprofit organization based in Atlanta, dedicated to protecting and advancing the health and wellness of Black women and girls. She succeeds Randy Jackson, who led PWCC through a transformative period of revitalization beginning in 2019. Under his leadership, the center reemerged as a vital force for change in the community.
A native of Greenville, Jones returns home with deep roots in the Upstate and a passion for service. In addition to her leadership at the Black Women’s Health Imperative, she previously served as executive director of 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, a chapter of the national 100 Black Men of America, Inc. There, she championed initiatives in mentorship, education, health, and youth engagement.
Jones also brings significant private-sector experience, having launched her career with Liberty Life Insurance Company in Greenville before joining Atlanta Life Insurance Company, where she served as assistant vice president of operations for six years.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jones to the Phillis Wheatley Community Center,” said Ted Kelly, chair of the PWCC Board of Directors. “Her strategic vision, leadership experience, and passion for community development make her the ideal person to lead the center into its next era of impact.”
“I am honored to return to my hometown and to join an organization with such a rich legacy of service,” said Jones. “As I begin my role, I look forward to connecting with community leaders, donors, and stakeholders across the Upstate. Together, we’ll explore new opportunities to expand PWCC’s impact and uplift communities throughout the region.”

Categories
Press Release

Art & Light Gallery

Rhythm and Flow: Daniel Klewer Solo Exhibition
July 8 – 26, 2025
Artist Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6:00 – 8:00PM

[GREENVILLE, S.C.] – Art & Light Gallery is happy to present Rhythm and Flow a solo exhibition of work by Daniel Klewer (Myrtle Beach, S.C.) launching on the Art & Light website and in the gallery at 10:00 AM (EST) on Tuesday, July 8 with an opening reception on Friday, July 11 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM.

Daniel Klewer, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and was awarded a Master of Arts degree in Visual Studies from Cardinal Stritch University, Glendale, Wisconsin. Klewer is largely recognized for his unconventional painting process, characterized by a shift away from the use of a paintbrush and evidence of brushstrokes. His work often involves applying paint with non-traditional methods and exploring color and texture through various techniques. Daniel’s love of the material properties of paint is evident in his treatment of abstract painted surfaces. He enjoys a meditative, sequential process in which the spontaneity of the material is allowed to influence the direction of the work.

Daniel states, “Light and color are driving forces in my work as I explore chromatic and tonal shifts. Primarily using a brushless paint application that stretches the paint’s physical qualities. The textured surfaces of the paintings document investigations into the relationship between paintings and sculpture. My work flows between vibrant spontaneity and meditative minimalism as it reflects my pursuit of painting as a contemplative, perceptual experience. The composition and colors explore how surfaces can communicate a story.”

About the Gallery: Art & Light represents a roster of over 50 artists, from emerging to established, in a space that is uniquely southern and inviting. For eighteen years, Art & Light has worked to connect collectors with a community of exceptional working artists.

Categories
Press Release

Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Rebecca Epps
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce
(864) 877 – 3131
rebecca@greerchamber.com

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Guthrie’s Chicken in Greer

What: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in celebration of Guthrie’s Chicken Fingers Grand Opening.
When: Wednesday, May 28 | Ceremony 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Grand Opening 10 AM – 10 PM
Where: 1308 West Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer, SC 29650

Join the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce in welcoming Guthrie’s Chicken to the community! The event will feature brief remarks and a celebration of Guthrie’s newest location in Greer. Media are invited to attend and cover the festivities.

For more information or inquiries, contact info@greerchamber.com or call (864) 877 -3131.

About Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce:
The Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting economic development and improving the quality of life in the greater Greer area. Through advocacy, events, and programs, the Chamber supports local businesses and fosters a vibrant community.

###

Categories
Press Release

Paysmart Payroll Services

AnnaGrace earned her B.S. in Accounting from UNC Charlotte and brings experience in accounting and executive support. She loves organizing data and helping others. Outside work, she enjoys mentoring youth, musicals, and studying psychology.
About Paysmart Payroll Services
For over 20 years, Paysmart Payroll Services has helped local businesses thrive with personalized service, expert knowledge, and industry-leading technology. More than just payroll, Paysmart is a trusted partner dedicated to accuracy, efficiency, and client success.
“It’s not payroll. It’s people.®”
Media Contact:
Brad Detandt
Director of Business Development
brad@paysmartsc.com
864.729.7655

Categories
Press Release

Stokes & Company CPAs

Greenville, SC – Stokes & Company CPAs is excited to welcome Hunter Renner as the newest Accountant!
Hunter is a recent Clemson graduate with a double major in Accounting and Finance. With a year of industry experience, he brings strengths in bookkeeping, computer systems, and problem-solving. Outside the office, he enjoys golfing, concerts, and sporting events.
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

Categories
Press Release

Carolina Handling named a 2024 Modula Top Performer

Carolina Handling has been named a top performer by Modula Inc., a leading manufacturer of vertical lift modules and automated storage solutions, scoring a second-place finish in overall sales of Modula units during 2024.

Additionally, the Charlotte, NC-based material handling systems integrator received a Gold Level certificate for Modula marketing efforts in 2024 that included advertising and email campaigns, merchandising, SEO and social media.

“As a consultative partner and a provider of end-to-end integrated warehouse solutions, products like Modula enhance our extensive portfolio of equipment and technologies to help companies achieve greater speed, accuracy, efficiency and safety in their operations,” said Carolina Handling Chief Operating Officer Joe Perkins. “We’re delighted to be recognized as a top Modula performer for the second consecutive year.”

An authorized Modula dealer since 2021, Carolina Handling sells, installs and services the advanced vertical storage and retrieval systems designed to reduce storage space and boost productivity in order picking. Carolina Handling has more than 35 field service technicians trained and qualified to install and maintain Modula units. The company also stocks genuine Modula parts to expedite repairs.

ABOUT CAROLINA HANDLING
Founded in 1966, Carolina Handling is one of the Southeast’s leading integrated material handling solutions providers and the exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida’s Central time zone. The company provides forklifts and automation solutions for manufacturers, warehouses and distribution centers, along with parts, racking, storage, lighting and dock and door equipment. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Carolina Handling has more than 825 associates. For more information, visit carolinahandling.com.