Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Tag: leftrail

Potential economic impact of professional licensures for lawfully present workforce to be unveiled at March 25 event

Allied4Work event Greenville

GREENVILLE, S.C. – A report authored by Clemson University researchers that explores the economic impact of allowing lawfully present workers to receive occupational and professional licenses in various sectors will be unveiled to the public on March 25 in Greenville. Co-hosted by Hispanic Alliance and Ten at the Top, the Allied4Work event will also include an overview of S.C. House Bill 3288 and a panel discussion on the opportunities and challenges for the lawfully present workforce in South Carolina.

“The community of lawfully present immigrants is a rapidly growing portion of the Upstate’s workforce. We look forward to a productive, data-driven discussion on strategies that will enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in our ten-county region and the state as a whole,” said Dean Hybl, executive director of Ten at the Top.

“Our goal is to shine a light on opportunities to engage the Hispanic population, and other lawfully present members of the workforce, in building prosperous communities for everyone across the state,” said Adela Mendoza, executive director of Hispanic Alliance. “We invite people from all industries, backgrounds and cultures to join us in dialogue and collaboration to build bridges towards equitable policies and a thriving future for all South Carolinians.”

Date and Time
● Monday, March 25, 2024
● 8:15 a.m. Doors open
● 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Event

Location
Clemson ONE Center, 1 North Main Street, Greenville, S.C. 29601

Registration
The event is free and open to the public. Register online at: hispanicalliancesc.org/allied.

Speakers
● State Representative Neal Collins (R – Pickens)
● Brandy Amidon, mayor of Travelers Rest
● Nina Cano Richards, attorney and co-founder, Spanglish Consulting
● Scott Cochran, president, Spartanburg Methodist College
● Jason Zacher (panel moderator), president and founder, Bridge Public Strategy Group

Fast Facts
● Seventeen percent of South Carolina’s workforce is currently employed in a licensed field.
● There are at least 5,500 individuals in South Carolina with approval and authorization from federal authorities to be employed who are barred by state law from obtaining licensure to work in fields such as real estate, nursing and education.
● According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, South Carolina ranks 4th among states by 2030 with a nursing shortage.
● According to the Center for Educator Recruitment Retention and Advancement (CERRA), the teacher shortage in South Carolina was at an all-time high at the start of the 2023-2024 school year with more than 1,600 vacancies.
● S.C. House Bill 3288 is a one-sentence bill to allow people who have current and valid employment authorizations approved by federal immigration authorities to be eligible for occupational or professional licensure if all other applicable requirements are met.

About Hispanic Alliance
The Hispanic Alliance is the largest convener of ideas, individuals, and institutions collaborating to advance Hispanic communities across South Carolina. With the mission of fostering collaboration and connectivity among people, resources, and cultures to build thriving communities, the Hispanic Alliance envisions a vibrant and inclusive community where everyone has access to opportunities for success and prosperity. The Hispanic Alliance is a nonpartisan organization that faithfully advocates for diversity, equality, acceptance, understanding, and embracing the American dream. For more information, visit HispanicAllianceSC.com.

About Ten at the Top
Comprised of public, private, and civic leaders from across the ten-county Upstate South Carolina Region, Ten at the Top was created to connect and encourage regional collaboration through data-driven research and regular convening of leaders and citizens to address key issues facing the region. Ten at the Top works with regional partners to foster collaboration and strategic planning to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life for Upstate residents both today and as the region continues to grow. For more information, visit www.tenatthetop.org.

Celebrate Responsibly: Tips for a Sober St. Patrick’s Day

GREENVILLE, SC – As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, many across the United States eagerly anticipate the festivities associated with the holiday. From wearing green to attending parades and parties, the day is marked by joyous celebrations. However, amidst the revelry, it is crucial to remember the importance of celebrating responsibly, especially for those who choose to abstain from alcohol.

Originally a day for family gatherings, activities with children, and religious observance, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a widely celebrated occasion, often accompanied by heavy drinking. In fact, St. Patrick’s Day ranks as the fourth most-celebrated drinking day in America, following closely behind New Year’s Eve, Christmas Day, and July Fourth.

Traditionally, bars in Ireland were closed on St. Patrick’s Day, but the rise of the “pub crawl” culture and relentless promotion of alcohol have transformed the holiday into a day of continuous drinking. “At RCA, we advocate for a sober St. Patty’s Day as a testament to the strength and resilience of individuals choosing a healthier path,” says CEO of Recovery Centers of America at Greenville, Lisa Goodnough.

Recovery Centers of America promotes a culture of responsible celebration and offers support to those who choose to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day soberly. Here are some tips for enjoying a sober St. Patrick’s Day:

• Embrace the traditions: Participate in St. Patrick’s Day festivities without alcohol by donning green attire, attending parades, and engaging in activities that celebrate Irish culture and heritage.

• Plan ahead: If you’re attending events where alcohol will be present, plan your transportation in advance. Consider carpooling with a designated driver, using ride-sharing services, or relying on public transportation to ensure a safe journey home.

• Seek sober-friendly events: Look for events in your community that cater to individuals who choose to celebrate without alcohol. Many organizations host alcohol-free gatherings, offering a welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy.

• Focus on connections: Use St. Patrick’s Day as an opportunity to connect with friends and loved ones. Engage in meaningful conversations, share laughter, and create lasting memories without the need for alcohol.

• Support one another: If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction and need help, the staff at Recovery Centers of America is available 24/7. Call 1-844-5-RCA-NOW (844-572-2669) for help today. Or for more information, visit RecoveryCentersofAmerica.com.

Goodnough continues, “By prioritizing responsible celebration and supporting those who choose to abstain from alcohol, we can ensure that St. Patrick’s Day remains a day of joy, camaraderie, and inclusivity for all.”

ABOUT RECOVERY CENTERS OF AMERICA

Recovery Centers of America is dedicated to helping patients achieve a life of recovery through evidence-based treatment for substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions. RCA has 11 inpatient facilities in Earleville and Waldorf (near Washington D.C.), Maryland; Danvers and Westminster, Massachusetts; Devon (near Philadelphia), and Monroeville (near Pittsburgh), Pennsylvania; South Amboy and Mays Landing, New Jersey; St. Charles, Illinois (outside of Chicago); Indianapolis, and Greenville in South Carolina. A full spectrum of outpatient treatment is also provided at many of these facilities. Patients can obtain care by calling 1-844-5-RCA-NOW (844-572-2669) with complimentary transportation provided in most cases. For the fourth year, RCA is recognized as having multiple sites atop Newsweek’s America’s Best Addiction Centers rankings for excellence.

The Exonerated at ECP – March 22-24

Imagine you were put on death row… found guilty for a crime that you didn’t commit! Based on the legal records of six wrongfully convicted inmates, the play, The Exonerated, explores their stories from being sentenced to death row to how they gained their freedom.

The Exonerated is an award winning play, being unique and outstanding! The Exonerated is being performed:
–Friday, March 22nd at 7:30pm
–Saturday, March 23rd at 7:30pm
–Sunday, March 24th at 3:00pm
at Electric City Playhouse, 514 N. Murray Ave, Anderson, SC 29621.
Get tickets by going to www.ecplayhouse.com/tickets.

Tickets are $10 each, making it an affordable evening in downtown Anderson. At the theater, concessions will be available, and you could even win a prize basket in our raffle to help our non-profit community theatre.

Sponsorships and advertising for upcoming shows are still available, and donations (monetary or to include in raffle fundraising gift baskets) are always appreciated. Reach out to our office for more information or if you have any questions: 864-224-4248

SCC to Host Nursing Program Information Sessions

On Monday, March 18, Spartanburg Community College will host two Nursing Information Sessions for the public in the Tracy J. Gaines Auditorium on the College’s Giles Campus. The morning information session will take place from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM and the evening session will take place from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Attendees will be able to learn how to navigate the application process for SCC’s nursing programs, understand the programs’ expectations for success, and find out more about the exciting and rewarding career paths available to them right here in their own backyard.

SCC’s School of Nursing offers two nursing pathways: a Licensed Practical Nurse program and a Registered Nurse program. Both the LPN and RN programs are offered in-person during the day with clinical sites utilized throughout Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union counties.

While SCC is an open admissions institution, acceptance into our nursing programs is by selection. Any applications submitted for the RN or LPN program will be reviewed and evaluated on an impartial basis. There is no “waiting list” for SCC’s nursing programs.

Please register to attend the morning information session here: https://sccsc.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Events/EventDetails?eventId=f17b2d71-85bf-ee11-8a24-0e3ff2ef6303

Please register to attend the evening information session here: https://sccsc.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Events/EventDetails?eventId=6d6e10d5-85bf-ee11-8a24-0e3ff2ef6303

MEDIA NOTICE
What: Two information sessions on admittance to SCC’s School of Nursing
When: Monday, March 18. 9AM – 11AM & 5PM – 7PM
Where: Tracy J. Gaines Auditorium; Spartanburg Community College – Giles Campus

Banker Exchange Highlights Female Empowerment & Achievement During Women’s History Month

As the world celebrates Women’s History Month, Banker Exchange, a pioneering firm in 1031 tax-deferred exchanges, takes the opportunity to announce and celebrate its recent recognitions: the SCBiz Empowering Women Award and the prestigious 2024 GSA Women of Influence Award received by its President, Shonna Felkel.

The SCBiz Empowering Women Award recognizes organizations in South Carolina that have demonstrated a significant commitment to supporting and elevating women in the workplace and the community. This honor underscores Banker Exchange’s dedication to creating an environment that nurtures the professional growth and leadership of women.

In parallel, the GSA Women of Influence Award acknowledges 25 exceptional women who have made substantial contributions to making the Upstate a vibrant place to work and live. Shonna Felkel’s selection as one of the honorees is a testament to her unwavering passion, leadership, and commitment to community causes, alongside her remarkable contributions to the real estate industry.

“Women’s History Month offers a poignant moment to reflect on our collective strides towards female empowerment and leadership,” said Shonna Felkel, President. “At Banker Exchange, we’re honored by the recognitions of the SCBiz Empowering Women Award and my GSA Women of Influence Award. These accolades are a testament to our team’s dedication to fostering a culture that celebrates and supports the achievements of women, reinforcing our commitment to this important cause.”

Banker Exchange’s announcement aligns with the spirit of Women’s History Month, highlighting the firm’s and Felkel’s impactful roles in advancing the status of women in both professional arenas and community engagements.

About Banker Exchange: Banker Exchange is a leader in facilitating 1031 tax-deferred exchanges, offering comprehensive services and guidance to exchangers nationwide. With a commitment to integrity, expertise, and client-focused solutions, Banker Exchange is a trusted partner in maximizing real estate investments.

For more information about Banker Exchange, please visit bankers1031.com.

Trinity Partners, LLC Chooses Endeavor for its Greenville Office Location

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Endeavor, the coworking and office space community in downtown Greenville’s ONE tower, announces that Trinity Partners, LLC, a full service commercial real estate provider, has chosen Endeavor as its new office location for its Greenville-based team. Trinity Partners, LLC offers multiple services including site selection, leasing, sales, property management, investment sales and development consulting across North and South Carolina.

When choosing an office space, Edward Wilson, partner, knew they wanted to be somewhere that was committed, competitive, and collaborative. “At Trinity Partners we bring passion, an entrepreneurial approach, and best-in-class service to every client we serve and every space we touch. We could quickly tell that the Endeavor team resembled the Trinity team in this regard.”

As an Office member, the Trinity Partners team has 24/7 access to Endeavor, as well as use of technology-equipped conference rooms, printing resources, high-speed internet and Wi-Fi, a state-of-the-art gym, and access to Endeavor’s professional development and networking events. Equally important, they receive face-to-face interaction with other like-minded members, fostering increased business-building opportunities, idea generation and professional growth.

“Endeavor is home to several companies based in other markets that have chosen to grow their presence in Greenville,” says Joe Erwin, president of Endeavor. “Trinity Partners, LLC is a successful company with a collaborative culture, and we are proud that the Greenville-based team has chosen to make Endeavor their home.”

Endeavor offers a range of membership options, with benefits that scale up based on the plan you select. Office and Private Desk members enjoy their own dedicated space with 24/7 access, while Daytime Coworking members and Day Pass visitors can utilize Endeavor’s large flex workspaces overlooking City Plaza Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. where the amenities include:

• Comfortable work areas with worktables, standing desks, soft seating and oversized monitors
• Member concierge and assistance
• High-speed, secure Wi-Fi / Internet
• Private telephone booths
• Community kitchen/café area, including bottomless coffee
• State-of-the-art gym and shower within Endeavor’s space
• Opportunity to connect with Endeavor members who offer a wide range of services to help build businesses
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Meeting rooms and event spaces, which are also available for booking by outside groups.

To learn more about Endeavor, including available private offices, desk memberships, coworking and day passes, contact [email protected].

About Endeavor
Endeavor is a membership-based coworking community for creative and entrepreneurial professionals, as well as corporate teams and business travelers. Endeavor’s premium location in the ONE Development in Greenville, SC provides members with state-of-the-art work and meeting space, and uniquely surrounds them with a diverse array of peers who offer a broad range of services and experience. Training opportunities, networking events and business consulting are available for the professionals who call Endeavor home every day, as well as business team members across the region. Endeavor has been recognized as the winner of the Coworker Member’s Choice Award for Greenville, SC. For more information, visit endeavorgreenville.com.

The Rock It! Co.’s Leah Stoudenmire named Woman of Influence

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Founder and CEO of The Rock It! Co., Leah Stoudenmire, has been named to GSA Business Report’s 2024 Women of Influence list.

GSA Business Report’s 2024 Women of Influence celebrates the accomplishments of Upstate business women who are reaching amazing heights in their careers, while making a positive impact in the community.

Stoudenmire started her advertising career in Greenville in 2002 when the University of South Carolina graduate started her first post-college job with advertising giant, Erwin Penland. In 2004, she became Director of Sales Services, Marketing & Events for IMI Resort Holdings, and then in 2008, she co-founded COAST Apparel and served as president until 2011. She founded The Rock It! Co. in 2014 as a fully integrated events and marketing firm. Through corporate events, website development and management, e-mail communications, public relations, social media and search engine marketing, The Rock It! Co. is designed to do one thing: get the results companies and nonprofits need to succeed.

“This is a wonderful honor to be recognized amongst so many other outstanding women,” Stoudenmire said. “Our core ethos is about celebrating and elevating brands both locally and across the country, and it is humbling that GSA Business has elevated our brand this way.”

About The Rock It! Co.:

The Rock It! Co. is the one-stop shop for companies and non-profit organizations looking to taking their brands and stories to the next level. With decades of expertise in creating and developing events and marketing campaigns across the country, The Rock It! Co. brings all of the needed skills of a large-scale operation, but served with the customer service and personal touch only a boutique firm can bring. With offices in Charleston and Greenville, the company is able to serve clients across the country. Get rocking it today at therockitco.com.

South Carolina Federal Opens New Financial Center in Five Forks

N. Charleston, S.C. – South Carolina Federal Credit Union has opened its fourth financial center in the Greenville area at 2536 Woodruff Road in Simpsonville.

The credit union’s Five Forks location features two teller stations for account transactions, five offices for new account and lending needs, a self-service Online Banking kiosk, four drive-thru lanes, and 24/7 ATM access. The lobby features a large-scale photographic mural of downtown Greenville, paying homage to the beautiful Reedy River and River Place Bridge.

“We have served the Lowcountry for over 85 years, and continue to grow our presence in the Upstate, especially in Greenville,” said Stacy Lomonaco, Five Forks Financial Center manager. “As we welcome new members to the South Carolina Federal family, we look forward to building long-lasting relationships and delivering exceptional service to the Simpsonville community.”

The Five Forks Financial Center lobby is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and the drive-thru is open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Fridays.

Becoming a member at South Carolina Federal has never been easier. To learn how you can connect with us, visit scfederal.org.

About South Carolina Federal
Connect with South Carolina Federal Credit Union for products, services, and financial literacy. With more than 175,000 members and $2.5 billion in assets, the member-owned financial institution operates 29 offices and serves seven major markets including Charleston, Columbia, Georgetown, Greenville, Florence, Myrtle Beach, and Spartanburg. Over 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs are available worldwide through the Allpoint Network. More information about South Carolina Federal can be found at scfederal.org.

Diane Morgan Maxwell Earns NAR Designation in Senior Real Estate

Greenville, S.C. — Diane Morgan Maxwell with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, REALTORS has earned the nationally recognized Seniors Real Estate Specialist® designation from the SRES® Council of the National Association of REALTORS®.

Diane joins more than 15,000 real estate professionals in North America who have earned the SRES® designation. All were required to successfully complete a comprehensive course in understanding the needs, considerations, and goals of real estate buyers and sellers aged 55 and older.

“Working with seniors to meet their housing needs requires an expert understanding of their lifestyle and financial needs, and the SRES® designation means that a REALTOR® has that understanding,” said Jennifer Rzeszewski, Vice President and Executive Director of the Center for REALTOR® Development. “Whether they are buying, selling, relocating, or refinancing, seniors can be confident that a REALTOR® with their SRES® designation will be able to help them every step of the way.”

SRES® Council, founded in 2007, is the world’s largest association of real estate professionals focusing specifically on representing senior clients in real estate transactions. There are more than 15,000 active members of the organization worldwide.

The National Association of REALTORS®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing more than 1.4 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney Named CARFAX Top-Rated Dealer

GAFFNEY, SC – Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney is proud to announce their designation as a CARFAX Top-Rated Lifetime Dealer.

This is the fifth year CARFAX is honoring dealerships around the United States for their exceptional service based on verified customer reviews. The 2023 CARFAX Top-Rated Lifetime Dealers received an average of at least 4.7 stars out of a possible 5.

“These dealers are the best of the best in building trust and transparency with their customers,” said Gregg Cleary, CARFAX Vice President of Dealer Business. “CARFAX has more than 5.4 million verified ratings and reviews, and dealers earn the Top-Rated distinction strictly from our verified feedback. We want to help consumers who need to buy or service their car find those dealers who will go the extra mile.”

“Transparency is of the utmost importance during the car buying process,” said Charlie Burns, Dealer Principal at Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney. “That’s why we’ve partnered with CARFAX. We want all of our customers to have peace of mind knowing the history of their pre-owned vehicles before they make a purchase. We are honored that our customers trust Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney as their top local car dealer.”

Recognition for Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney as a 2023 CARFAX Top-Rated Dealer can be found on the CARFAX Vehicle History Reports they provide to their customers.

About Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney
The Burns Family Automotive Group has served the Carolinas for a century, offering a premium car-buying experience like none other since 1923. Our new and used car dealership in Gaffney is a family-owned and operated business that is committed to customer satisfaction and giving back. That’s what makes Burns Chevrolet “The Right Choice.” For more information about Burns Chevrolet of Gaffney, please visit burnschevyofgaffney.com or call (864) 489-6000.

About CARFAX
CARFAX, part of S&P Global Mobility, helps millions of people every day confidently shop, buy, service and sell used cars with innovative solutions powered by CARFAX® vehicle history information. The expert in vehicle history since 1984, CARFAX provides CARFAX Used Car Listings, CARFAX Car Care, CARFAX History-Based Value and the flagship CARFAX Vehicle History Report to consumers and the automotive industry. CARFAX owns the world’s largest vehicle history database. Shop, Buy, Service, Sell – Show me the CARFAX®.

S&P Global Mobility is a division of S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI). S&P Global is the world’s foremost provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets.