Month: September 2023

Lowcountry

Garden & Gun Announces Second Annual Champions of Conservation Honorees

September 18, 2023 by 0 Comments
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Garden & Gun and partner Explore Asheville recognize ten undersung scientists, advocates and innovators who are helping defend the South’s imperiled ecosystems

CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Garden & Gun, in partnership with Explore Asheville, unveils this year’s Champions of Conservation in the October/November issue on newsstands today. Following a 2022 debut, Garden & Gun‘s Champions of Conservation program celebrates and salutes leaders and innovators whose groundbreaking work and environmental projects are making a Southern impact.

This year’s Champions are made up of ten exceptional scientists, advocates, and pioneers on the front lines of conservation efforts critical to the protection of Southern ecosystems. Advocating for threatened waterways and fighting for agricultural, environmental, and cultural change, the dynamic group of crusaders from across the region are working to ensure a more sustainable future for the next generation.

“Conservation has been part of the editorial ethos at G&G since day one,” says David DiBenedetto, senior vice president and editor in chief. “So much of what we love about the South springs from the land, and it’s an honor to bolster the incredible work of those who are trying to protect it. Hopefully others will take notice and champion them alongside us.”

Garden & Gun Presents Champions of Conservation in Partnership with Explore Asheville

After months of extensive research, the Garden & Gun editorial team hand-selected each champion with help from a panel of conservation experts. This year’s panelists include Sally Bethea, the first woman in America to become a “riverkeeper”; Caleb Hickman, a G&G 2022 Champion of Conservation and Supervisory Biologist for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina; Mamie Parker, a success coach and consultant at Ecologix Group, Inc; Simon Perkins, the President for Orvis; Felica Sanders, the Coastal Bird Conservation supervisor for the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources; and Jonathan Wilkins, a hunting educator and facilitator with Black Duck Revival. Their collective knowledge helped unearth a lineup of exceptional advocates including Asheville’s own Chris Smith of the Utopian Seed Project. His work developing new farming techniques is helping develop a more robust food system for the future.

To celebrate the 2023 Champions of Conservation, Garden & Gun and Explore Asheville invite guests to the Blue Ridge Mountains on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. for Cocktails and Conservation – a cocktail reception and thought-provoking discussion hosted by DiBenedetto.

In conjunction with the Champions of Conservation partnership, Garden & Gun, The Good Road, and Explore Asheville are excited to announce a dynamic partnership that will shine a spotlight on Asheville’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant food scene, and commitment to environmental conservation, social justice, and community engagement.

In Season 4, Episode 404 of The Good Road, airing November 7th at 9 p.m. ET on PBS, viewers will embark on a journey that celebrates the Wilma Dykeman Legacy through the lens of Asheville’s iconic French Broad River Arts District. This episode will feature captivating conversations with Becky Stone and Kate Epsen as they explore the Wilma Dykeman Greenway. Additionally, viewers will gain insights into the incredible work of Hood Huggers, as they rebuild Affrilachia and revitalize the community through walking tours led by DeWayne Barton. And, viewers will also delve into the world of farm-to-table dining with none other than the renowned chef John Fleer, joined by bluegrass musician Woody Platt.

Additionally, Garden & Gun will host a series of short form Asheville episodes, all designed to captivate and inspire audiences across the nation and offer viewers an intimate glimpse into the heart of Asheville’s culinary and cultural scene on www.gardenandgun.com/goodroad.

“Explore Asheville is proud to present Garden & Gun‘s 2023 Champions of Conservation. These national champions, including Asheville’s own Chris Smith and JJ Apodca, exemplify our commitment to sustainable and responsible travel,” says Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. “Surrounded by some of the world’s oldest mountains and one its most ancient rivers, humans have been drawn to this amazing place we call home for hundreds of years. We believe that preserving the natural beauty of our region and supporting our vibrant community go hand in hand with providing unforgettable experiences to our visitors.”

Learn more about the 2023 Champions of Conservation in the October/November issue of Garden & Gun on newsstands and online at www.gardenandgun.com. Garden & Gun Good Road content can be found at www.gardenandgun.com/goodroad.

CHAMPIONS OF CONSERVATION

  • Jacqueline Echols of the South River Watershed Alliance (Atlanta, GA): Long before Atlanta’s South River became a political flash point, Echols began fighting to conserve the waterway.
  • Mike Chamberlain of the Wild Turkey Lab (White Plains, GA): Georgia biologist and hunter is stepping in as wild turkey numbers are plummeting.
  • Julie Moore of the North Carolina Plant Conservation Program (Raleigh, NC): Carolina botanist Moore won’t rest till the South’s iconic insectivorous plants are protected.
  • JJ Apodca of the Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy (Asheville, NC): Apodca works as an inventive herpetologist that wields DNA in wild and wonderful ways.
  • Jennie L. Stephens of the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation (Charleston, SC): Families with heirs’ property across the region have an ally in Stephens, a South Carolina dynamo defending descendants.
  • Adam Chappell of the Arkansas Soil Health Alliance (Cotton Plant, AR): Chappell inspires farmers with his knowledge and success of regenerative farming.
  • Alvin Dedeaux of Loco Trash Bash (Austin, TX): Local fly fishing guide Dedeaux starts annual river cleanup of the Lower Colorado river.
  • Mitzi Reed of the Native American Fish and Wildlife Society (Philadelphia, MS): Choctaw biologist Reed doubles down as she roots out invasive species and beckons youth to join the cause.
  • Chris Smith of the Utopian Seed Project (Asheville, NC): In the face of climate change, monoculture, and an uncertain future, grower Smith tries new tactics.
  • Ryan J Brown of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Richmond, VA): Brown works to make the outdoors a place where all Virginians feel welcomed by establishing the first Office of Diversity and Inclusion within the Department of Wildlife Resource.

About Garden & Gun

Garden & Gun is a multiplatform media company that celebrates stories of the American South through powerful journalism, bold photography, exquisite design, and finely curated retail and experiential journeys. The brand is anchored by its award-winning national magazine launched in 2007, Garden & Gun, which reports on the South’s sporting culture, food, music, art, literature, and its people and their ideas. The coveted audience of 1.6 million is further engaged through numerous New York Times best-selling books, Fieldshop by Garden & Gun retail experience, the Garden & Gun Club restaurants, and 75+ events each year. Visit gardenandgun.com.

About Explore Asheville

Asheville is where unrivaled natural beauty and bold creative expression meet. The colorful Blue Ridge Mountain city is steps away from the world’s most biodiverse forests and the tallest peaks in the East. For generations, Asheville has nurtured and inspired a compassionate community that’s deeply rooted and ever evolving – just like the ancient French Broad River that runs through it. It’s an anchor destination for two of the most visited National Park Service units in the United States – the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For the most up-to-date happenings and travel ideas, visit ExploreAsheville.com.

About The Good Road

The Good Road offers a compelling look at the messy and complicated business of global charity. Hosts Earl Bridges and Craig Martin- longtime philanthropy veterans, globe-trotters, and best friends- set off around the world to places where people are doing good. Sometimes that good is several plane rides away and sometimes just off your own daily commute. Season four will take you from the war torn streets of Mosul, Iraq to the beautiful but threatened coral reefs of St. Thomas and beyond to meet the philanthropists, changemakers, and do-gooders making a difference in their communities.

Lowcountry

Weltons Tiny Bakeshop, the latest edition to the family of sweet offerings in downtown Charleston, SC

September 16, 2023 by 0 Comments
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Have you heard about Weltons Tiny Bakeshop located at 682 King St, Charleston, SC 29403?

You should. This newest member of the Charleston culinary community brings amazing sweet and savory indulgences to downtown Charleston offering a unique assortment of warm hospitality and delights with an essence of European style.

Now open 5 days a week, Wednesday through Sunday from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM you now have an opportunity to grab breakfast, lunch or a snack for later in the day.

If the pictures don’t entice you, the warmth of the staff and inviting ambiance will certainly get you to the front door. Come and try this very special new place in downtown Charleston, South Carolina.

Photo Credit: Westins Tiny Bakeshop

Lowcountry

Rescued sea turtle named Java by the South Carolina Aquarium “Name Our Turtle Campaign” Grand Prize Awarded

September 15, 2023 by 0 Comments
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Saving Sea Turtles and Supporting The South Carolina Aquarium

CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — As the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Coffee Roasters has the honor of naming another rescued sea turtle. 

After the release of Jo the Sea Turtle in February, the Aquarium invited Charleston Coffee Roasters to enlist the public to help name another rescued sea turtle undergoing rehabilitation at the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center™. An amazing 1,746 individuals submitted ideas — and “Java” was selected as the name for a rescued sea turtle!

Java is a juvenile green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) that was stranded on Hilton Head Island in the pluff mud. On August 9, a local resident reported the turtle to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), and Hilton Head Island Sea Turtle Patrol Team members responded. Thanks to the collaborative efforts from the community, this sick sea turtle was able to safely make it to the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Care Center.

Meet Java the Sea Turtle on our website.

Congratulations to Angela W. from Wendell, NC for winning our Grand Prize for submitting the name Java. Angela will receive:

  • 2 Bags of Aquarium Blend coffee
  • 2 Bags of Beach House Blend coffee
  • 4 Tickets to The South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, S.C.
  • The complete set of the Beach House Series (7 books!) signed by NY Times best-selling author Mary Alice Monroe

And congratulations to our 24 runner ups who also submitted Java as a name idea and will receive 1 bag of Aquarium Blend and 1 bag of Beach House Blend. We appreciate all the interest in saving sea turtles!

Our community conservation effort is spearheaded by friends and longtime Charleston residents Mary Alice Monroe – the New York Times bestselling author of nearly 30 books with more than 8 million copies in print worldwide – and Lowell D. Grosse – Founder and President of Charleston Coffee Roasters. 

Charleston Coffee Roasters is proud to support the efforts of the South Carolina Aquarium through our business. We are the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium, which supplies more than 200 pounds of food daily for nearly 5,000 resident animals and sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation in the Sea Turtle Care Center.

“Aquarium Blend was developed to celebrate our partnership with the South Carolina Aquarium” said Grosse. “We are committed to conservation, and we appreciate everything the Aquarium does to save sea turtles and our natural environment.”

Monroe added, “I’m devoted to the environment and animal conservation, which are hallmarks of many of my novels. I am honored to support Lowell’s vision of giving back to my beloved Aquarium and its Sea Turtle Care Center through Charleston Coffee Roasters. Beach House Blend makes one powerful cup of coffee!”

“Like many of the patients undergoing rehabilitation in the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center, Java was admitted with a long list of ailments that we have spent the past few weeks treating,” said Melissa Ranly, Sea Turtle Care Center Manager. “The road ahead is a long one, but it truly takes a village to ensure the survival of threatened and endangered sea turtles. We’re grateful for the multiple individuals, agencies and the community who enabled us to give this sea turtle a fighting chance.”

We’ll be sure to share updates as Java receives treatment at the Sea Turtle Care Center. 

For all Charleston Coffee Roasters media inquiries, contact Rick Herrick at (415) 613-3145 or rherrick@charlestoncoffeeroasters.com.

About Charleston Coffee Roasters:
Founded by veteran coffee importer Lowell Grosse in 2005, Charleston Coffee Roasters creates a craft coffee experience as rich in flavor and character as Charleston itself. Within the company’s Charleston facility, each coffee bean is slow roasted in small batches by master roasters, with constant “cupping” to ensure quality. The company proves its dedication to helping the community and the ecosystem, by purchasing certified, sustainably grown coffees from farmers who take care of their workers and the environment; and by actively supporting Charleston charities and organizations. Charleston Coffee Roasters is also the lead sponsor of the Nutritional Care Program at the South Carolina Aquarium and is an advocate for the conservation of sea turtles, which are the inspiration for the Charleston Coffee Roasters “turtle bean” logo. Learn more at https://www.charlestoncoffeeroasters.com/

About Mary Alice Monroe:
Mary Alice Monroe is the New York Times bestselling author of nearly 30 books, including the bestselling The Beach House series, for which the coffee was named. The Beach House is now a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie. Monroe has received numerous awards, including being inducted into the South Carolina Academy of Authors Hall of Fame. An active conservationist, she lives on a barrier island in Charleston, S.C. http://www.maryalicemonroe.com/

About the South Carolina Aquarium:
The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston’s No.1 family attraction, is home to more than 5,000 animals, from river otters and sharks to sea turtles and shorebirds, and represents the rich biodiversity of our state — from the mountains to the sea. Visitors can also get an inside look at the Sea Turtle Care Center™, a working hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick and injured sea turtles. While fulfilling its mission to promote education, conservation, and an exceptional visitor experience, the Aquarium also presents sweeping views of the Charleston Harbor along with interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.

The South Carolina Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. The Aquarium is open seven days a week with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, December 25 and a half day on December 24 (open 9 a.m.–noon). Annual Aquarium membership with unlimited visits starts at $99. For more information, call (843) 577-FISH (3474) or visit scaquarium.org.

Lowcountry

48 Hours in Charleston – Original Poem

September 15, 2023 by 1 Comment
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By Mark A. Leon

In Charleston’s heart, where history meets the sea, I spent 48 hours, wild and free, Downtown’s charm, a Southern delight, A tale of grace, from morning to night.

Daybreak paints the sky in hues of pink and gold, As the cobblestone streets in their stories unfold, In the Holy City’s embrace, I wander and roam, In the land of palmettos, I’ve found my home.

The market awakens, a bustling display, Artisans and vendors in the early light’s sway, Sweetgrass baskets weave tales of the past, As the scent of Gullah cuisine fills the air at last.

Rainbow Row, a colorful delight, Houses that glow in the soft morning light, With their pastel facades, history in each brick, I stroll in wonder, their stories I pick.

The Battery whispers secrets of days gone by, With moss-draped oaks and the sea’s gentle sigh, Mansions of old, a regal array, Overlooking the harbor, where ships once sailed away.

At Waterfront Park, by the pineapple fountain I rest, With a view of the harbor, I am truly blessed, Children laugh, couples embrace, In this serene oasis, time finds its pace.

King Street beckons with boutiques and flair, Fashion and treasures, a shopper’s affair, But it’s more than the stores, it’s the people you meet, Their warmth and their smiles make the city complete.

As the sun dips below the horizon’s embrace, The Holy City transforms with elegance and grace, Gas lamps flicker to life, stars in the night sky, Charleston’s nocturnal beauty, I can’t deny.

The culinary scene, a culinary delight, Lowcountry cuisine in the soft candlelight, Shrimp and grits, sweet tea by the glass, Every bite a memory, a moment to amass.

The rhythmic beat of jazz fills the air, In cozy bars, I find solace and care, A glass of bourbon, the notes of a sax, In Charleston’s music, I lose track of time’s tracks.

With 48 hours passed in this charming place, Downtown Charleston’s a timeless embrace, In its history and culture, I found my way, In this Southern jewel, I’ll forever stay.

Lowcountry

The ARK of South Carolina Annual Golf Tournament and 24th Annual Race Raise More Than $34,000 for Families Living with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia

September 14, 2023 by 0 Comments
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Annual Golf Tournament and 24th Annual Race Raise More Than $34,000 for Families Living with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. – The ARK of South Carolina, dedicated to supporting families living with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia (ADRD), recently hosted two successful events that raised over $34,000 for their essential programs and services. These events support individuals and families impacted by ADRD across various counties.

Annual Swing for The ARK Golf Tournament Raised $11,000

On Thursday, August 24, 2023, the Swing for The ARK Golf Tournament took place at Lake Marion Golf Course in Santee, SC. This annual event attracted nearly 100 golfers from multiple counties who came together to support the cause. The tournament, presented by Argos Cement, raised $11,000 to increase awareness and funding for programs assisting families living with ADRD in upper Dorchester and lower Orangeburg counties.

According to data from the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health, more than 2,200 individuals live with ADRD in Dorchester County, with an additional 2,100 in Orangeburg County. These numbers represent a significant increase since the year 2000, with Dorchester County seeing a 313% rise and Orangeburg County experiencing a 132% increase in ADRD diagnoses. Remarkably, more than 70% of individuals diagnosed in both counties are cared for at home by family caregivers.

“Caregiving is demanding and can be overwhelming, and we are grateful to be able to offer support,” said Peg Lahmeyer, Executive Director of The ARK. “This event allows us to raise awareness in the community, so caregivers know they are not alone.”

The ARK of Harleyville, a satellite program of The ARK of SC, offers hope and relief to families living with dementia by providing comprehensive support services, including respite, caregiver education classes, community outreach, and support groups. The funds raised from the golf tournament will support The ARK of Harleyville’s programs, which offer support services to families in upper Dorchester and lower Orangeburg counties.

“It was a pleasure for the Argos Harleyville Cement Plant to support this golf tournament again this year,” said Vince Martin, Safety, Environmental, and Public Affairs Manager at Argos. “This was one of the largest tournaments we’ve ever sponsored, and everyone had a fantastic time. We look forward to supporting this golf tournament again in 2024.”

24th Annual Race for The ARK Generated $23,000

On August 26, 2023, The ARK of South Carolina held the 24th Annual McElveen Race for The ARK in historic downtown Summerville. With a turnout of more than 400 participants, this event raised $23,000 to benefit families living with Alzheimer’s and related dementia throughout the Lowcountry.

“We are grateful for the continued dedication and support from the Lowcountry community. These funds will help finance programs such as memory screenings, resource fairs, educational workshops, and support groups across Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, and Orangeburg counties,” said Lahmeyer. “Additionally, the funds will support The ARK respite centers in Harleyville and Summerville and will significantly contribute to The ARK’s mission to provide comprehensive support services to families living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia in our five-county service area.”

Currently, more than 95,000 South Carolinians live with Alzheimer’s disease, and 11.5% of individuals aged 45 and older report subjective cognitive decline. The disease burden is carried by 197,000 family caregivers in South Carolina, who provide 296 million hours of unpaid care.


McElveen GMC returned as the title sponsor, and Trident Medical Center as the towel sponsor. The male overall winner was Jason McCormack with a time of 17:22, and the female overall winner was Kerry Robinson with a time of 21:21. The corporate challenge winners were reigning champions, AllCare Living Services. The youth challenge winners were Ridge Christian Academy. The independent team winners were Racers for Pacers.

The ARK looks forward to the 25th Annual Race for The ARK, scheduled for Saturday, August 24, 2024. This milestone event will be celebrated with an anniversary block party after the race. For more information, please visit www.thearkofsc.org or contact Allie Suber at events@thearkofsc.org.

ABOUT THE ARK OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Based in Summerville, SC, The ARK of SC is a local nonsectarian nonprofit outreach program providing hope and relief to families living with Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Dementia (ADRD). Support services include social respite care, support groups, education, caregiver consultations, resource referrals, and community development.

The ARK of Harleyville is a satellite program of The ARK of SC with support services, including social respite care, support groups, education, caregiver consultations, resource referrals, and community development.

For more information, email info@thearkofsc.org or visit thearkofsc.org.

Lowcountry

South Carolina Ranked #1 for Best State for Manufacturing in the U.S. in 2023

September 14, 2023 by 0 Comments
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South Carolina has been ranked as the best state for manufacturing in 2023 for the second consecutive year by Site Selection Group, LLC.

The ranking is based on factors such as workforce alignment, operating costs and geographic positioning, with South Carolina scoring ahead of North Carolina and Tennessee.

Click Here for Full Report: https://loom.ly/Ty4sKEc

Weighting system

CategoryWeightingKey Variables
Workforce & Market Alignment50%Labor Scalability (Population, Workforce, Growth, Unemployment)Target Demographics (Age, Income, Education, Socio-Economic Status aligned with Manufacturing)Target Occupational Presence (Presence of Target Occupational Clusters, focusing on Production, Logistics, Maintenance and Engineering Requirements)Target Occupational Demand (Competition and Hiring Pressure)Organized Labor Climate
 Operating Costs25%Wage/Salary Levels for Target Occupational RequirementsBroader Coast of Living and Income MetricsTax ClimateUtility CostsReal Estate Costs
Geographic Positioning25%General Population/Consumer Access (This factor can be very client-specific)Modal Access (Air, Port, Rail, Intermodal)

Top 10 States

Lowcountry

Top Reasons You Should Promote/Advertise Your Company on Instagram with Charleston Daily

September 14, 2023 by 4 Comments

Do you want to make a difference in your business?

Grow your followers?

Drive new customers?

Here is your chance to partner and advertise with Charleston Daily using targeted sponsorship.

Here are a few reasons why

  • Over 124,000 Instagram Followers – All Local Lowcountry Content
  • Average of 50,000+ Views per Instagram Reel
  • Average of 2000+ Likes per Instagram Posting
  • Viewed over 2.0M+ times in 2022
  • Past sponsorships saw average follower growth of 35% – 50% (Giveaway themed sponsorship)
  • Strong community partner
  • Sponsorship turnaround time is 24 hours or less
  • Accept Square, Paypal, CashApp, Credit Card or Venmo

To Schedule a Consultation:  Email  mark@charlestondaily.net  or direct message on www.intagram.com/charleston_daily

Lowcountry

Ribbon Cutting for the newly renovated Cotton Gin House at Boone Hall Plantation (Mount Pleasant, SC)

September 14, 2023 by 0 Comments
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In a joyous and humble post on LinkedIn, Aaron Butner shared this post and images from the ribbon cutting. A proud moment for Boone Hall Plantation and the Mount Pleasant, SC community.

In 1681, Major John Boone & his wife Elizabeth, founded the plantation of Boone Hall.

In 2023, the farm is still in operation and telling the story of American history.

Yesterday, the ribbon was cut on the newly renovated Cotton Gin House! This structure was built in the 1850’s and it is gorgeous!

What Jim Westerhold and many others have done to protect this gem of American history is truly special. Conservation work to protect this property from future development was done by many folk, both public & private. Thanks to Helen Turner Hill, Duane Parrish, and Will Haynie for helping keep this national treasure safe! Willie would be proud of y’all!

Bring your family out to the farm! Learn about the history of America and see some of the most beautiful scenes from early American history! Zoom in on some of the photos below to read more about Boone Hall!

Lowcountry

Crush Yard Takes Pickleball Entertainment to New Heights

September 13, 2023 by 1 Comment
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Starting September outside Charleston, then Orlando, Crush Yard eyes 50 Southeast markets.

CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — When the first Crush Yard opens outside Charleston (Mount Pleasant, SC) this month, it will introduce a new concept in eatertainment – a membership experience with priority pickleball court bookings and gourmet self-service via a custom app. 

Crush Yard targets a widening hunger for pickleball in the Sun Belt, where supply lags demand. There are considerably more players than facilities – 175 players for every court – and enthusiasts are growing by the day.

Unlike other eatertainment destinations built solely for eating and drinking around pickleball, golf, and arcade games, Crush Yard’s foundation is a sports club. Director of Pickleball and Head Pro Dan Levine, an ITPTA Certified Level II Pickleball Pro, will give private and group lessons, and run camps, leagues, and tournaments for members.

Crush Members get private open-play hours every day (5:00 – 11:00 AM) and priority access to teaching and tournaments. They also get access to Matt “McNasty” Manasse, “Pickleball Coach to the Stars” who coaches such Hollywood stars as Emma Watson and Larry David. Manasse is the chain’s Chief Brand Ambassador.

“Access is the principal luxury for pickleball enthusiasts,” said Andrew Ladden, CMO of Crush Yard. “So, our business starts with memberships. That gives us a dedicated base of players who are coming day in, day out. We will also host events making Crush Yard a travel destination for those dedicated to the growing sport.”

Everyone who comes to Crush Yard gets access to gourmet comfort food created by chef Brandon Buck, coffee from One Nation Coffee, and micro brews from Holy City Brewing. In addition to pouring One Nation blends, they’ve also created Crush Brew which customers can enjoy at the restaurant or buy grounds to take home. Holy City Brewing has brewed a special ale for Crush Yard called Dinker’s Delight – a wheat variety hopped with citrus and fermented with orange purée.

Everything is available on an extensive, proprietary self-serve app that replaces servers to speed up delivery. An entry-level Yard Membership gives repeat visitors unlimited soft drinks, credits on food purchases, and reduced fees on court reservations and equipment rentals.

The 40,000 square-foot facility occupies an existing building that previously housed The South Carolina State Armory. The Orlando facility, coming in November, is being fashioned from a former Bed Bath and Beyond building. Crush Yard makes it a point to develop in abandoned mail and retail locations to speed development and promote sustainability in communities.

“It’s a competitive advantage for us to use existing locations,” said Ladden. “We can get a Crush Yard operational in 10 months, instead of the typical two years it takes to build from the ground up. It costs us, and our communities, far less in the end.”

Lowcountry

Charleston, SC Based Ignite Digital Services Achieves Microsoft’s AI Cloud Partner Designation

September 13, 2023 by 0 Comments
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National security consulting company achieves new partnership with Microsoft AI Cloud

CHARLESTON, S.C. – September 13, 2023 – Ignite Digital Services, an operational consulting company serving the national security sector, announced its latest credential as part of the company’s growing suite of technology solutions – becoming a Microsoft AI Cloud Partner. This designation, formalized July 31, 2023, brings clients the very latest in cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) backed by leading software provider Microsoft. As a Microsoft AI Cloud Partner, Ignite Digital is qualified to deploy a wide range of technology solutions tailored to clients’ specific needs. 

“Our team at Ignite Digital deploys strategic solves to enhance the efforts of the public and defense sectors,” shares Marc Murphy, CEO of Ignite Digital. “With our deep industry expertise and an impressive list of product partnerships, including our latest Microsoft’s AI Cloud Partner distinction, we offer our clients the best of today’s emerging and leading technologies.

Prioritizing best-in-class software technology solution partnerships allows Ignite Digital to develop, build and maintain cutting-edge products that serve the diverse needs of its clients. Under the company’s Certified to Serve commitment, Ignite Digital maximizes the potential of these partnerships by incorporating comprehensive training and ensuring qualified support structures.

Ignite Digital received its AI Cloud Partner status after meeting the program criteria measuring performance, skilling and customer growth capabilities. The designation allows the company to leverage Microsoft’s portfolio of operating systems, productivity suites, cloud services, and development tools. Ignite Digital also holds certifications with UiPath and Archer IRM, among others.

“The value of technology solutions for the public sector is clear, and I’m proud to see how this team strives to bring a high level of value-driven, mission-critical service to our client base,” adds Murphy.

About Ignite Digital Services

Ignite Digital Services harnesses the power of digital technology and effective business solutions to ignite digital transformations for the national security industry. With a keen focus on purposeful results and innovative capabilities, the company offers unparalleled value that supports mission-critical initiatives. Learn more about Ignite Digital Services at ignite-digital.com.