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N.C. House Speaker Destin Hall said in a press release that this ends “divisive DEI policies for good.”

By Ben Humphries

Bills banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in public schools, community colleges, and universities are now law after Republicans in the North Carolina House of Representatives voted to override vetoes of the bills on Wednesday. Gov. Josh Stein, a Democrat, vetoed the bills last July. The House also overrode a veto on another bill that would ban DEI in state agencies, which must now be overridden by the Senate.

N.C. House Speaker Destin Hall said in a press release that this ends “divisive DEI policies for good.”

North Carolina’s DEI bans come during a wave of anti-DEI legislation in other states in recent years. South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, Alabama, and Kentucky are among nearby states that have passed similar bans.

Under the new North Carolina laws, public schools are barred from engaging in “discriminatory practices” or teaching “divisive concepts” to students, with similar restrictions applying to colleges and universities. If the state agency DEI ban passes, state agencies and local governments would be prevented from promoting, supporting, implementing, or maintaining DEI programs, policies, or initiatives.

Another bill, Senate Bill 153, titled the “North Carolina Border Protection Act,” also became law after an override vote on Wednesday. That law, in part, requires University of North Carolina System institutions not to enact policies that restrict federal immigration enforcement.

The votes passed 71-47 along party lines, just clearing the three-fifths requirement to override vetoes in North Carolina. The absence of two members from the House floor allowed Republicans to pass the overrides on their own, without help from Democrats or unaffiliated members.

Source: The Good Men Project

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Spartanburg, S.C. – June 30, 2026… BMW Group announced today the completion of a $1.7 billion investment in its South Carolina operations. The company celebrated the milestone at the “Home of X” event at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, reaffirming its longstanding commitment in the United States through continued investment and innovation leadership. With this milestone, BMW Group has completed the expansion of Plant Spartanburg and the construction of Plant Woodruff, establishing the foundation for the assembly of fully electric BMW vehicles in South Carolina. The United States remains one of BMW Group’s most important markets and business ecosystems worldwide.

• All New BMW X5 will be the first vehicle to be offered with five drivetrain options. 
• BMW iX5 confirmed as first fully electric BMW to be assembled in the U.S. starting later this year. 
• Newly appointed BMW Group Chairman of the Board of Management Milan Nedeljkovic: “Completion of our investments in Spartanburg and Woodruff demonstrates our confidence in the United States and reinforces South Carolina’s role at the center of BMW Group’s global operations.” 
• By 2030, BMW Group will assemble at least six fully electric models in the United States.

Spartanburg, S.C. – June 30, 2026… BMW Group announced today the completion of a $1.7 billion investment in its South Carolina operations. The company celebrated the milestone at the “Home of X” event at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, reaffirming its longstanding commitment in the United States through continued investment and innovation leadership. With this milestone, BMW Group has completed the expansion of Plant Spartanburg and the construction of Plant Woodruff, establishing the foundation for the assembly of fully electric BMW vehicles in South Carolina. The United States remains one of BMW Group’s most important markets and business ecosystems worldwide. 

The event also marked the world premiere of the all new, fifth-generation BMW X5. BMW confirmed that the BMW iX5 will be the first fully electric BMW assembled in the United States, starting in late 2026.  

“When we announced our investment plans for South Carolina in 2022, we made a clear commitment to the future of the BMW Group in the United States,” said Milan Nedeljković, Chairman of the Board

of Management, BMW AG. “Today, we are delivering on that commitment. The completion of our investments in Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff demonstrates our confidence in the United States and reinforces South Carolina’s role at the center of BMW Group’s global operations.” 

Together, Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff form a highly integrated network supporting the future of BMW X model assembly and electrification in the United States. 

Home of X. 

Home of X recognizes the significant role the United States plays in BMW Group’s global operations. South Carolina is the home of BMW Group’s largest plant worldwide. For more than 50 years, BMW has maintained a strong commitment in the United States, growing its presence to nearly 30 locations across 12 states. Today, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. support more than 120,000 jobs nationwide and contribute more than $43.3 billion annually to the U.S. economy. 

Established more than three decades ago, BMW Group Plant Spartanburg is the global center of competence for BMW X models. Since 1994, more than 7.3 million BMW vehicles have been assembled in South Carolina for customers in the United States and around the world. In 2025, 412,799 BMW X models were assembled at Plant Spartanburg – this marked the seventh time the plant has exceeded 400,000 units. 

Approximately half of the plant’s current production is exported to nearly 120 countries, helping to make BMW the leading automotive exporter in the United States by value. To date, nearly 3 million BMWs have been exported from the United States, valued at over $113 billion.  

The completion of BMW Group’s $1.7 billion investment in South Carolina represents the latest chapter in the company’s longstanding commitment in the United States. Together, Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff will enable the assembly of the next generation of BMW X vehicles, including fully electric models, while strengthening BMW Group’s ability to serve customers around the world. 

With two plants, over 400 suppliers, and many longstanding strategic partners across the country, the United States remains central to BMW Group’s global strategy. This foundation supports future growth, innovation, electrification, and customer choice for decades to come. 

All New BMW X5 Available in Five Drivetrains.   

A centerpiece of the Home of X celebration was the world premiere of the all new BMW X5. The X5 established the premium Sports Utility Vehicle segment and became one of the most successful products in BMW history. Since 1999, over 3 million BMW X5 models have been sold around the world, a third of which were sold in the U.S. 

Assembled at Plant Spartanburg for over 25 years, the all new BMW X5 becomes the first vehicle offered with five drivetrain technologies. The options span internal combustion, battery electric, plug-in hybrid electric, diesel and, soon, fuel cell electric powered by hydrogen. This breadth reflects BMW Group’s technology-open approach and commitment to customer choice. 

“Our strategic course remains unchanged. We will continue to pursue the same technology-open strategy that has made BMW successful and will continue to make us successful in the future,” continued Nedeljković.  

Plant Spartanburg will be the first plant in the BMW Group’s global production network capable of assembling a single vehicle with five different drivetrain technologies on one assembly line, demonstrating the technology-open strategy at the highest level. 

By offering a broad range of drivetrain technologies, BMW enables customers to select the vehicle that best suits their needs, driving habits, and preferences. This flexibility reflects BMW Group’s conviction that multiple technologies will play an important role in the transition to sustainable mobility. 

“The all new BMW X5 demonstrates our belief that innovation and customer choice go hand in hand,” said Sebastian Mackensen, President & CEO, BMW of North America. “Our customers both in the U.S. and around the world will love the new BMW X5—and our technology-open approach puts them in the driver’s seat to enjoy the performance and premium experience that define BMW, regardless of which drivetrain they choose.” 

BMW Group also confirmed that the BMW iX5 will be the first fully electric BMW vehicle assembled in the United States. Assembly is scheduled to begin at Plant Spartanburg before the end of 2026

The announcement represents another important milestone in BMW Group’s electrification strategy. It fulfills a key commitment made as part of the company’s 2022 investment announcement. By 2030, BMW Group will assemble at least six fully electric BMW models in the United States, supported by locally assembled high-voltage batteries from Plant Woodruff. 

“The future of BMW X models will continue to be shaped in South Carolina,” said Dr. Robert Engelhorn, President & CEO, BMW Manufacturing Co. “From highly efficient combustion engines and plug-in hybrid systems to battery-electric and future hydrogen-powered vehicles, Plant Spartanburg will be able to assemble a broad range of drivetrain technologies for customers in the U.S. and around the world. This flexibility of Plant Spartanburg and our global production network strengthen our resilience, supports customer choice, and enables us to meet customer demand at any level.” 

Digitalization and AI in Production: Key Principles of BMW iFACTORY are implemented at Plants Spartanburg and Woodruff.  

The BMW iFACTORY concept defines the BMW Group’s strategic vision for the future of its global production network, driven by efficiency, sustainability, and digitalization. Both at Plant Spartanburg and Plant Woodruff, the guiding principles of the BMW iFACTORY are already a reality.  

Smart automation, end-to-end data integration, and virtual planning form a highly connected production system — with a highly skilled workforce at its core. Using digital twins, processes in both plants are optimized long before the first component reaches the assembly line. Using 3D virtual simulations enables seamless implementation, reduces complexity, and enhances workflows and ergonomics for associates. 

Artificial intelligence is deeply anchored in the assembly of both plants. AI-supported applications, including self-correcting robotics and vision-based quality controls, help ensure consistently high standards in a dynamic manufacturing environment. At both plants, AIQX (Artificial Intelligence Quality Next), an in-house IT platform at the BMW Group, is being applied. AIQX uses sensors and camera systems along the production line to automate quality processes. AI evaluates the data and provides real-time feedback to employees on the line. 

At the same time, Plant Spartanburg is advancing the next stage of innovation through physical AI. By utilizing humanoid robots from Figure AI, Plant Spartanburg has become a pioneer of BMW’s Physical

AI Initiative. These applications support associates in physically demanding and repetitive tasks, enabling greater focus on precision, craftsmanship, and quality that define every BMW vehicle.

At Plant Woodruff, the BMW Group is deploying intelligent, next-generation manufacturing powered by cutting-edge technologies—first proven in virtual environments.  Following the BMW iFACTORY principles, the new plant also reduces complexity and sets new standards in high voltage battery assembly. Following the “Cell-to-Pack” principle, the cells are assembled directly into the housing without the former processes of cell coating and cell module production. 

All in all, innovative technologies at both plants support and protect people. In doing so, digitalization enhances production performance, resilience, and the flexibility and adaptability needed to meet the mobility demands of today and tomorrow. 
#  #  #

BMW Group in the United States.  

BMW Group began operations in the U.S. over 50 years ago. In addition to the sales, marketing, and distribution of BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad vehicles, BMW Group’s business in the U.S. spans 30 locations in 12 states including BMW Group Financial Services, BMW Manufacturing, Designworks, BMW Technology Office USA, and BMW i Ventures. The company’s U.S. plant in South Carolina is the largest single BMW production facility in the world and the global center of competence for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented by a nationwide network of 359 BMW retailers, 139 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. Taken together, BMW Group’s business activities in the U.S. provide and support over 120,000 jobs and contribute more than $43.3 billion to the U.S. economy annually. 

Source: BMW

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Five new laws are taking effect across South Carolina on July 1, bringing changes that could impact students, schools, taxpayers and access to services. Here is a summary:

New rules for school grading (read the bill)

South Carolina is changing how public schools assign grades, with a new law requiring that report card scores reflect a student’s actual work. The measure bans districts from requiring teachers to give minimum grades higher than what a student earns. Districts that continue those policies could face a reduction in state funding. It also limits the use of credit and content recovery programs by requiring students to complete all original assignments before retaking a course. The law directs the State Board of Education to review and update the statewide grading policy.

“Smart Heart Act” requires emergency plans in schools (read the bill)

Another law focuses on student safety by requiring every public school to develop a cardiac emergency response plan. Schools must have automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, available on campus and accessible at athletic events, including some off-site locations. The law also requires training for school personnel and coordination with emergency responders. It takes effect now, with full implementation expected in the coming school years.

2-1-1 service shifts to Consumer Affairs (read the bill)

211 Network moving to the SC Dept. of Consumer Affairs: Oversight of South Carolina’s 2-1-1 network, which connects residents to services such as housing, food, and utility assistance, is being transferred to the Department of Consumer Affairs. The change establishes the agency as the statewide coordinator for the service and requires standardized reporting, data collection, and oversight. State officials say the move is intended to improve access to information and strengthen coordination of health and human services.

Changes to taxes and exemptions (read the bill)

A separate law makes several updates to state tax rules. The measure excludes certain government payments tied to next-generation 911 systems from taxable “gross proceeds,” and exempts some nonprofit chamber of commerce events from admissions taxes. It also expands a sales tax exemption for certain computer equipment to include related parties connected to the taxpayer.

Continuing education requirements updated for funeral professionals (read the bill)

Another law updates continuing education requirements for licensed funeral service professionals. Licensees must complete four credit hours annually, including one hour focused on ethics. At least half of those hours must be completed in person, while the rest may be done through remote learning. The law also includes exceptions for certain long-tenured licensees and allows flexibility during emergencies such as natural disasters or pandemics.

Source: Count on 2 News

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[WEST ASHLEY] – The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) officially opened Old Towne Creek County Park with a celebration on June 30.

Located at 1400 Old Towne Road in West Ashley, the 67-acre park offers the community the opportunity to enjoy recreation and beautiful open spaces, featuring accessible trails and boardwalks, scenic marsh views, a nature-inspired playground, and opportunities to learn about the site’s history and ecology.

“Old Towne Creek County Park reflects our mission to improve the quality of life in Charleston County by providing exceptional parks, programs, and services,” said Kevin Bowie, Executive Director of the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission. “From its scenic trails, playground, and arboretum, to the stories it shares about West Ashley’s history, this is a very special park. We’re grateful to everyone whose vision and hard work helped bring it to life and look forward to welcoming our community here.” 

Features of the park include:

• One-mile loop trail with packed stone surface, featuring beautiful views of Old Towne Creek
• ·Interpretive signage sharing the cultural and natural history of the site and the surrounding communities
• Boardwalk trails and water views from a dock (no water access or fishing)
• Nature-inspired playground with rubberized safety surfacing and accessible play elements
• Small amphitheater/outdoor classroom
• A variety of beautiful green spaces
• The Giving Tree, an outdoor art installation that serves as a fundraiser for the Charleston County Parks Foundation
• Abundant plant life, including an Arboretum featuring a variety of woody plants, a live oak allée, and blooming ornamentals. To celebrate the park opening on June 30, a live oak was planted in the arboretum as a community tree.

Structures open to the public at the site include:

• The Paddock Pavilion, a shelter located near the playground that features restrooms and outdoor seating
• The Fox Field Shelter, constructed by Clemson School of Architecture’s CommunityBUILD program
• The original “Rain Hut” building was preserved and repurposed as the Welcome Center. The Rain Hut once provided shelter to pupils of the Saint Andrews Riding Academy.

Events and programming will be offered year-round, including the popular Wine Down Wednesday series once offered at the site, with the first event set for Aug. 26. Educational and nature programming will also be offered.

Site history

The land of Old Towne Creek County Park is conserved as a living memorial to Emily Simmons Ravenel (1886-1971) by her late daughter Emily Ravenel Farrow (1915-2011). Both mother and daughter were passionate gardeners, and are responsible for planting many of the ornamental plants at the park today. In her estate plans, Mrs. Farrow established a conservation easement on the property, directing it to be preserved with strict limits on development to ensure the land remains a quiet place for learning and reflection.

After her death in 2011, CCPRC purchased the land from Lowcountry Land Trust. Public input on the master planning process was gathered in 2017. The park master planning process and a separate resource interpretation planning process were both guided by steering committees comprised of local subject matter experts. CCPRC broke ground on construction at the site in 2023. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2026 for its unique landscape setting and Main House and Caretaker’s House architecture.

Old Towne Creek County Park is now open daily. For park hours and additional information, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com

Old Towne Creek County Park is located at 1400 Old Towne Creek Road in West Ashley and is owned by CCPRC. The mission of CCPRC is to improve the quality of life in Charleston County by offering a diverse system of park facilities, programs and services. The large park system features over 11,000 acres of property and includes six regional parks, three beach parks, three dog parks, two landmark fishing piers, three waterparks, a historic plantation site, a skate park, 19 boat landings, a climbing wall, a challenge course, an interpretive center, an equestrian center, cottages, a campground, a marina, as well as wedding, meeting and event facilities. CCPRC also offers a wide variety of recreational services – festivals, camps, classes, programs and much more. For more information on CCPRC, call 843-795-4386 or visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com

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By Mark A Leon

For more than six decades, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom has inspired generations to look beyond their backyards and into the remarkable world of wildlife. This week, the iconic series once again proved why its mission remains as relevant as ever—not simply celebrating nature’s beauty, but championing the science, partnerships, and everyday actions needed to protect it.

During an engaging conversation with co-hosts Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, conservation took center stage. Their stories from the field, reflections on the challenges facing wildlife, and unwavering optimism for the future underscored a simple but powerful truth: protecting endangered species requires both scientific expertise and public participation.

That message carried even greater significance as the hosts travel to South Carolina’s Turtle Survival Alliance Turtle Survival Center in Cross, SC, where Wild Kingdom films on Wednesday. The visit places one of the nation’s most important conservation facilities in the national spotlight, highlighting the extraordinary work being done in the Palmetto State to save some of the world’s most endangered turtle and tortoise species from extinction.

Peter Gros, who joined the original Wild Kingdom team alongside legendary naturalist Jim Fowler in 1985, has spent decades educating audiences about wildlife conservation, rehabilitation, and environmental stewardship. Joining him is Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, a wildlife ecologist whose groundbreaking research on bears, lions, and human-wildlife coexistence has helped shape modern conservation science. Since becoming co-host in 2023, she has brought a fresh scientific perspective to the beloved series while continuing its longstanding tradition of making wildlife accessible to audiences of all ages.

Throughout the discussion, both hosts emphasized that firsthand experiences with wildlife often become lifelong catalysts for conservation. Dr. Wynn-Grant recalled observing female polar bears and their cubs in Churchill, Manitoba—a moment she described as unforgettable.

“We were watching female polar bears with cubs, you know, in their natural habitat. It was absolutely unforgettable,” she said.

Experiences like that, she explained, transform conservation from an abstract concept into a deeply personal responsibility.

Yet some of the greatest hope for wildlife, according to Gros, comes not from the animals themselves but from the next generation of conservationists.

After visiting a program for high school students interested in environmental careers, Gros spoke passionately about the remarkable diversity and enthusiasm he witnessed.

“There’s something special about this community here that I’ve never witnessed in all my travels,” he said, noting the broad range of racial, cultural, gender, and international backgrounds represented among students pursuing conservation.

For both hosts, inspiring young people has always been one of Wild Kingdom’s greatest strengths. The series continues to bridge generations by encouraging curiosity, fostering respect for wildlife, and demonstrating that everyone can play a role in protecting the planet.

The conversation also addressed one of conservation’s growing challenges: misinformation. Both Gros and Dr. Wynn-Grant expressed concern over the rapid spread of inaccurate information online, particularly regarding wildlife and environmental science.

“We have a commitment to factual scientific information,” Dr. Wynn-Grant said, explaining that the integrity of Wild Kingdom depends on presenting evidence-based conservation stories rooted in research rather than sensationalism.

They acknowledged that misinformation can discourage public trust and create confusion around critical environmental issues, making credible science communication more important than ever.

Equally important was their emphasis on practical conservation. Protecting wildlife is not limited to scientists working in remote field sites—it begins with everyday choices made by millions of people.

The hosts encouraged viewers to protect habitats, reduce pollution, support conservation organizations, participate in community cleanups, and oppose the illegal wildlife trade. Gros pointed to plastic pollution as one of the simplest yet most devastating examples of human impact.

“Plastics—ocean plastics really—kills them dead almost immediately,” he said, reminding audiences that small changes in daily habits can collectively save countless animals.

Those principles are put into practice every day at the Turtle Survival Alliance Turtle Survival Center in Clover. The internationally recognized facility serves as a global conservation hub, breeding and safeguarding some of the rarest turtle species on Earth while supporting research, education, and species recovery efforts around the world. By choosing to film there, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom showcased not only an extraordinary South Carolina institution but also the collaborative work of scientists, veterinarians, conservationists, and volunteers dedicated to preventing extinction.

As wildlife populations continue to face mounting pressures from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and illegal trafficking, the enduring mission of Wild Kingdom remains clear: inspire wonder, educate with integrity, and empower action.

For more than 60 years, the program has connected audiences with the natural world. Its visit to the Turtle Survival Alliance reminds viewers that some of the world’s most important conservation stories are unfolding not in distant wilderness alone, but right here in South Carolina—where dedicated professionals are working every day to ensure that endangered species have a future.

In shining a national spotlight on the Turtle Survival Alliance, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom celebrated more than remarkable animals. It celebrated the people whose passion, science, and perseverance are giving those species a second chance at survival—and reminded us all that conservation succeeds when knowledge is transformed into action.

Where can I watch Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild?

• NBC – Airs on weekend mornings during the “The More You Know” programming block (check your local listings). 
• Peacock – New episodes are typically available about 24 hours after they air on NBC. 
• NBC.com – Episodes are available to stream for free after broadcast. 

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CHARLESTON, S.C. — From waterfront fireworks over Charleston Harbor to family festivals in the Lowcountry’s surrounding communities, the Charleston region is preparing for another Independence Day filled with patriotic celebrations, live entertainment, and spectacular fireworks displays.

Whether you’re planning to spend the holiday along the coast, in one of the area’s scenic parks, or atop a rooftop overlooking the harbor, there will be no shortage of opportunities to celebrate America’s birthday.

One of the region’s signature events is the Patriots Point Fireworks Spectacular, taking place from 7 to 10 p.m. aboard the historic grounds of Patriots Point. The annual celebration features live music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and one of the largest fireworks displays in the Charleston area.

Beachgoers can enjoy traditional fireworks shows at both Isle of Palms Front Beach and Folly Beach, with fireworks scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. at each location. Both destinations remain among the most popular Independence Day gatherings in the Lowcountry and are expected to draw large crowds.

Along the Cooper River, North Charleston’s Independence Day Celebration at Riverfront Park runs from 4 to 10 p.m., offering live performances, children’s activities, local food vendors, and a fireworks finale over the river.

Residents looking for a more community-centered celebration can head to Sullivan’s Island, where festivities are scheduled from 6 to 10 p.m., while Summerville’s Fireworks & Freedom Festival at Gahagan Park will take place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., combining live entertainment, family activities, and fireworks.

In Goose Creek, the annual Fabulous Fourth in the Creek celebration returns to the Municipal Center from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., featuring live music, food, and one of Berkeley County’s most anticipated fireworks shows.

For those seeking a unique vantage point, The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits in downtown Charleston will once again host a rooftop Independence Day celebration from 7 to 11 p.m., pairing panoramic harbor views with barbecue, cocktails, and front-row seats to the evening fireworks.

Officials encourage attendees to arrive early, as parking will be limited and heavy traffic is expected before and after the fireworks. Visitors are also encouraged to stay hydrated, prepare for summer heat, and review each venue’s policies regarding coolers, chairs, and outside food before heading out.

With celebrations stretching from Charleston Harbor to the beaches and throughout the Lowcountry, residents and visitors alike will have countless ways to commemorate the Fourth of July while enjoying one of the region’s most cherished summer traditions.

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As part of a longstanding community partnership, BofA’s Charleston team put boots on the ground at Habitat Boulevard.

KEY POINTS

• 19 Bank of America volunteers worked on roofing and weatherproofing at Habitat Boulevard jobsite, advancing the home toward completion this summer.
• BofA and Sea Island Habitat share a longstanding partnership committed to affordable homeownership and economic opportunity as the Lowcountry continues to grow.

CHARLESTON, SC – This month, the Bank of America volunteer team joined Sea Island Habitat for Humanity once again for a full day of construction work on the Habitat Boulevard home build. 19 volunteers across two shifts worked on roofing and weatherproofing the home.

Construction Progress at Habitat Blvd.

At Habitat Boulevard, construction is moving full speed ahead. Trusses and windows are installed, bringing shape to the structure and transforming it into something that already resembles a future home. 

Bank of America crews completed seismic earthquake blocking between the trusses to strengthen the structure, installed sub-fascia and roof decking, and prepared the home for siding and trim installation. Their hard work and enthusiasm made tremendous gains in construction progress and brought the home one step closer to welcoming a deserving family.

Looking ahead, siding and roof decking are next steps toward completing the Habitat Boulevard project. Every day brings visible progress, and it’s exciting to watch this home rise from the ground up. The home is expected to be completed later this summer.

“Sea Island Habitat’s work providing affordable housing is critical to the Lowcountry’s economic viability as the region continues to rapidly grow,” said Mark Munn, President, Bank of America Charleston. “Bank of America and Habitat for Humanity share a belief that access to quality, affordable homes creates pathways to economic opportunities, healthier communities, and a sustainable workforce for the Lowcountry.”

Addressing the Lowcountry’s Housing Challenge

The region faces acute housing affordability challenges related to its coastal land mass, rapidly growing population, and lower wage jobs opportunities. That is a key reason why Bank of America has a longstanding partnership with local Habitat for Humanity Chapters centered around investing in underserved communities and partnering to support organizations focused on economic opportunity.

“Sea Island Habitat for Humanity is incredibly grateful for our longstanding partnership with the local Bank of America team here in Charleston,” said, Emily Speck, Director of Development, Sea Island Habitat for Humanity. “Through generous financial support and hands-on volunteer service, Bank of America has been one of our most dedicated community partners for many years.”

Each nail hammered, inspection passed, and wall raised is made possible through the support of a community of people and organizations like Bank of America that donate, volunteer and advocate to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.

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Recognition Highlights Blackbaud’s Measurable Efforts to Reduce Environmental Impact and Advance Sustainability

CHARLESTON, S.C., June 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB), the world’s leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact, announced today that it has been named one of the World’s Greenest Companies 2026 by Newsweek and Plant A Insights Group.

The ranking recognizes the top 850 publicly listed companies across 28 countries for their environmental sustainability performance. GIST Impact and Plant-A Insights Group developed the ranking through a comprehensive analysis of self-disclosed data, evaluating over 8,000 organizations to determine the final selection.

“Blackbaud exists to power social impact, and that responsibility doesn’t stop at the products we build,” said Margaret “Maggie” Driscoll, chief people and culture officer, Blackbaud. “As we deliver cutting edge technology that helps nonprofits and social impact organizations further their missions, we’re taking a responsible, people-first approach to building AI that’s intentional about where and how this technology is used as part of our wider commitment to sustainability and stewardship. Being named one of the World’s Greenest Companies two years running is proof that our values aren’t just words. They show up in our culture, our decisions, and our commitment to the customers we serve. This recognition belongs to every person at Blackbaud who has made sustainability a priority.”

Companies were evaluated and scored on more than 25 parameters across four categories: Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Water Usage, Waste Generation, and Sustainability Data Disclosure and Commitments.

“Our planet’s future demands collective, immediate action from every sector,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Newsweek’s editor-in-chief. “By spotlighting the World’s Greenest Companies, we celebrate the corporate leaders proving that environmental responsibility is not just a moral obligation, but a cornerstone of sustainable, forward-thinking business in today’s changing global economy.”

Blackbaud’s commitment to environmental sustainability centers on responsible operations and measurable progress toward decarbonization. In 2025, Blackbaud achieved carbon neutrality across its business operations for the fifth consecutive year and continued to reduce the environmental footprint of its operations through remote‑flexible work, energy efficient facilities, and ongoing investments in energy and water conservation.

Learn more about how Blackbaud is leading the way to a more responsible future in the company’s 2025 Impact Report, and learn more about Blackbaud’s approach to Responsible AI here.

About Blackbaud
Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB) is the world’s leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact. Serving nonprofits, educational institutions, companies committed to corporate social responsibility, and individual change makers, Blackbaud propels impact at scale with the sector’s most intelligent solutions for fundraising and engagement, education solutions, financial management and CSR and grantmaking. With the deepest expertise powered by the world’s largest philanthropic data set, the most connected workflows, and the most powerful impact network, Blackbaud’s solutions are building a future where resources are unleashed at the speed of need. Blackbaud has been recognized by Fast Company, Newsweek, Quartz, Forbes and more for AI innovation, responsible leadership and workplace excellence. Blackbaud has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, India and the United Kingdom, supporting users in 100+ countries. Learn more at www.blackbaud.com or follow us on X/Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

by Natalie DeMore

“Stand. Serve. Salute.”

Sometimes, all it takes is one leap of faith.

For Leah Marly Scarmeas, that leap came in the form of a last-minute decision to enter the Miss South Carolina Teen USA pageant. Bright, gracious, and remarkably humble, Leah entered with few expectations—simply grateful for the opportunity. By the end of that Saturday evening, however, her life had changed forever. She was crowned Miss South Carolina Teen USA 2025, earning not only a coveted title, but also a powerful platform to inspire others and champion the causes closest to her heart.

For Leah, “Stand. Serve. Salute.” is far more than a motto—it is a way of life.

Over the past year, those three words have come to define a reign marked by resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to service. Whether encouraging young girls to pursue their dreams or representing the unique experiences of military children across South Carolina, Leah has worn her crown with humility, purpose, and grace, proving that true leadership is measured not by a title, but by the lives you touch.

At just 18 years old, a graduate of Cane Bay High school in Summerville South Carolina, Leah is far from ordinary. As she prepares to pass her crown to the next titleholder, she reflects on a transformative year that blended personal growth with a mission close to her heart: supporting military children and families.

Raised in a family dedicated to service- her father serving in the United States Air Force- Leah understands firsthand the sacrifices military life demands. Leah was born originally in Wilmington North Carolina, and through that she herself had attended nine schools growing up, eventually graduating here in Summerville, she understands firsthand the frequent relocations, long separations, and the emotional challenges of having a parent deployed; these are the realities she has personally lived. Rather than shy away from these experiences, Leah turned them into purpose.

Her personal nonprofit platform, “Rooted in Service” was created and designed by Leah to give military children a voice, as a way to connect with others going through the same things she went through growing up. As well, she visits many schools to talk to children about pageantry as well as helping them learn to love themselves, yet to stay humble. Leah connected directly with students navigating similar struggles- encouraging them to share their stories and emotions.

“Sometimes it’s easier for a child to open up to someone closer to their age,” she explains. “I wanted them to know they’re not alone-that their feelings matter.”

To further her impact, Leah authored Brave Like Chewie: An Interactive Coloring Book for Strong, Brave Military Kids. Part coloring book, part diary, and more- it allows kids to express their emotions, document their journeys, and map out the many places they have called home. The book is now available on Amazon, with proceeds supporting military families. Completely nonprofit, these proceeds are donated to military bases and children’s programs. One example being obtaining the assets for the ability to have children attend summer programs and camps throughout the states.

As her reign comes to a close, Leah reflects with gratitude.

“I feel so thankful for everything I’ve been able to do this year—the people I’ve met, the lives I’ve touched, and the opportunity to compete on the Miss Teen USA stage,” she says. “None of it would have been possible without my parents and the sacrifices they’ve made for me.”

Though she is stepping away from competition for now, Leah’s passion for pageantry and service remains. She plans to continue mentoring young women, helping them build confidence, prepare for interviews, and present themselves authentically in pageantry.

“It’s such a rewarding feeling to coach other girls—to watch them grow and believe in themselves,” she says. “Pageantry will always be part of my life.”

Looking ahead, Leah will begin college with plans to study political science and broadcast journalism. Her interest in leadership is already beginning, one day hoping to write speeches for political figures. Through her demonstration and leadership, she obtained a scholarship to Mississippi State University, which has in turn fueled her love for public speaking and advocacy.

As she prepares to crown her successor, Leah leaves behind more than a title-she leaves a legacy of empathy, compassion, humility, determination and being a shining beacon to those around her.

In a world that often celebrates surface accomplishments, Leah’s story is a reminder that true impact comes often when we use our voices to uplift others.

And as she passes on her crown, her message remains clear:
Stand strong. Serve others. Salute those who sacrifice.

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The Salute from the Shore is a unique opportunity for individuals, friends, and families to salute our armed forces while celebrating Independence Day on South Carolina beaches. Our role is to organize and promote a military flyover on the 4th of July that will stretch the entire length of South Carolina’s coast. We will capture as much footage of the flyover as possible, from the air and from the ground, for inclusion in a video that will be posted for all to see.

At 1 PM, F-16s from Shaw Air Force Base will make their way down the coastline, beginning at Cherry Grove in North Myrtle Beach and ending in the Beaufort/Bluffton area in the Lowcountry. 

Following the active military aircraft will be an all-volunteer brigade of Warbirds, a civilian-owned and flown vintage plane community that will include T-34s, T-6s, and T-28s.

Stay up to date on the event through the official website.

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