NEWSTAR Announces New Single-Family Rental Communities in Charlotte, North Carolina

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ATLANTA, Aug. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — NEWSTAR announced today the acquisition of two sites in Charlotte, North Carolina planned for development of 103 homes to be operated under NEWSTAR’s Stella Homes brand. NEWSTAR is partnering on the projects with Red Cedar Homes, a leading Southeast homebuilder and land developer.

The properties are located in northwest and north-central Charlotte respectively and total approximately 17 acres. Once complete, the communities will feature two-story and three-story homes with attached garages and market-leading finishes including Hardiplank exterior facades, SPC flooring, Quartz countertops, framed mirrors, walk-in showers, and sodded and fenced-in yards. Finished homes will offer 1,500 square feet to 1,729 square feet of heated living area.

“We are excited to announce these two new projects in Charlotte where we will provide much-needed family housing inside I-485”, said Boone DuPree, Chief Executive Officer for NEWSTAR. “This marks our fourth partnership with Red Cedar, and we look forward to building upon that to deliver ‘Class A’ homes in a flexible and attainable rental format. NEWSTAR’s development pipeline now exceeds 1,000 homes and lots across the Southeast United States. We are excited to continue to grow our business by creating new neighborhoods to serve our communities.”

“We are looking forward to working hand-in-hand with NEWSTAR to design and build custom, quality homes for their new Charlotte communities,” said Jon Grabowski, CEO of Red Cedar Capital Partners. “NEWSTAR has a distinct vision for this project, and we are honored to be a part of the execution. From initial budget and timeline conversations to construction and marketing – we’ll be there to support NEWSTAR every step of the way.”

Construction loan financing and joint-venture equity was arranged by Patterson Real Estate Advisory Group. Ameris Bank is the construction lender.

Clearing and sitework is expected to begin this quarter with homes delivering starting in the third quarter of 2025.

For more information, please contact info@newstar-am.com.

SOURCE NewStar Asset Management

American Integrity Insurance Expands Coverage to more South Carolina Homeowners

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Regional Insurer Offering Coverage for Homes Up to 75 Years Old in The Palmetto State

TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — American Integrity Insurance, a leading regional provider of property insurance solutions, proudly announces it is now providing coverage for homes up to 75 years old in South Carolina.

The company, which began providing home insurance coverage in South Carolina in 2022, is continually expanding its presence across the Southeast. With a wide array of insurance solutions and nearly two decades of success, this latest move underscores the company’s commitment to steady and strategic growth.

“The success we’ve achieved in South Carolina since launching our program has paved the way for American Integrity to broaden our capacity to even more South Carolinians” said Bob Ritchie, President and CEO. “We are thrilled to expand our footprint in South Carolina as we firmly establish American Integrity Insurance as a premier market for dynamic, comprehensive and dependable home insurance solutions for consumers in the Southeast U.S.”

American Integrity Insurance’s enhanced homeowners policy in South Carolina offers wind mitigation credits and a variety of discounts to help customers save on premiums while maintaining robust coverage. Well-maintained homes valued up to $1.5M are eligible to receive this coverage.

“We are extremely pleased to embark upon this next step in our Company’s strategy in South Carolina,” said Jon Ritchie, Chief Operating Officer. “We are grateful to our agency partners and customers who have placed their trust in us in the Palmetto State thus far, and we look forward to serving thousands more in the years to come. American Integrity has the staff, leadership, technology, and processes in place to provide the products, service, and protection that our customers deserve.” 

For more information, visit American Integrity Insurance.

About American Integrity Insurance Group (American Integrity)
American Integrity Insurance, a prominent regional residential property insurer, serves 300,000 customers and is represented by more than 1,000 independent agents. The Tampa-based company is dedicated to protecting homeowners with innovative and reliable coverage options. Our mission is to deliver exceptional service and value to our policyholders, ensuring peace of mind and financial security. We are committed to market leadership, excellence, and the well-being of our agents, policyholders, and employees. 
For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.aiiflorida.com, call 866-968-8390, or connect with the company on FacebookXLinkedIn, or Instagram.

South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) and Department on Aging Partner to Warn Seniors About Scams

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs (SCDCA) is celebrating the release of the newly updated scam guide, “Ditch the Pitch.” The publication, first released in 2015, arms consumers with information to spot and avoid scams. SCDCA is partnering with the South Carolina Department on Aging (SCDOA) to distribute “Ditch the Pitch” to more than 9,000 consumers statewide who are served by the Department on Aging’s home delivered meal program.

This outreach is an effort to educate elderly consumers, a demographic often exploited by fraudsters. “Ditch the Pitch” addresses common scams, how to avoid them and what to do if a consumer reveals sensitive information to a scammer. “Scammers are more active and more successful than ever,” said Carri Grube Lybarker, SCDCA Administrator. “Education truly is the best defense to avoid becoming a victim and we appreciate the Department on Aging’s assistance in arming South Carolinians with the tools they need to get ahead of fraudsters.”

“The South Carolina Department on Aging is committed to improving the lives of older South Carolinians by collaborating with various partners to provide education, advocacy, and resources,” South Carolina Department on Aging Director Connie Munn said. “The statistics for older adults who fall victim to scams is at an all-time high, so opportunities to team up with the Department of Consumer Affairs to educate seniors and their families about scams and how to protect themselves is critical.   By utilizing our aging network which provides home-delivered meals, we can provide these “Ditch the Pitch” booklets.  Supporting older adults and those with disabilities with essential tools and knowledge is key to helping them lead healthier, safer lives.”

The August 13 release of the updated “Ditch the Pitch” also marks the 50th  anniversary of the signing of the law that established SCDCA. The South Carolina Consumer Protection Code was signed into law on August 13, 1974, by Governor James Edwards, with the Code becoming effective January 1, 1975.

For more information about avoiding identity theft and fraud, or to access a digital copy of “Ditch the Pitch,” visit consumer.sc.gov/ditch-pitch. To request a free hard copy of the publication, you can submit an order form.

About SCDCA

Established in 1974, DCA has nearly fifty years of experience in protecting South Carolina consumers while recognizing those businesses that act honestly and fairly. Cultivating a marketplace comprised of well-informed consumers and businesses prevents deceptive and unfair business practices, allows legitimate business activity to flourish, resulting in the promotion of competition and a healthier economy.

About SCDOA

The South Carolina Department on Aging (SCDOA) enhances the quality of life for seniors in South Carolina. The agencies mission is to meet the present and future needs of seniors and to enhance the quality of life for older South Carolinians through advocating, planning and developing resources in partnership with federal, state and local governments, non-profits, the private sector and individuals.

The SCDOA works with 10 regional Area Agencies on Aging and a network of local organizations to develop and manage services that help seniors remain independent in their homes and in their communities.

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Southern Living’s 2024 Idea House, Located on Johns Island, SC Showcases Lowcountry Charm and Local Artistry

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Products and Designs Showcased Throughout the Home From 14 Sponsors including Command™ Brand, James Hardie, Marvin ®, Monogram Luxury Appliances, Pedigree ® Brand, Sherwin-Williams ®, Among Others

NEW YORK and BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Aug. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Southern Living debuts the cover story featuring the 2024 Idea House, located in the Kiawah River community on Johns Island, South Carolina. Open to the public for tours, the home showcases a harmonious blend of the ecological riches that surround it, from coastline to maritime forest, and historic Charleston charm. The 2024 Idea House is featured in the September 2024 issue of Southern Living, on newsstands August 23rd and online today at SouthernLiving.com.

Southern Living September 2024 Issue
Southern Living September 2024 Issue

This year’s Idea House spans 4,400 square feet and includes indoor and outdoor entertaining areas designed for year-round Southern hospitality, a pool, and a cozy carriage house for guests. Adorning the walls is a custom mural by Rebecca Atwood that evokes the feeling of a tree canopy, emphasizing the natural beauty of its surroundings. The home features the work of many other local creatives like Charleston-based Andrea Cayetano-Jefferson of Gullah Sweetgrass Baskets, Stephanie Summerson Hall of Estelle Colored Glass, and celebrated painter Anne Darby Parker. The Idea House is situated in the lush Kiawah River community, home to 20 miles of shoreline and 2,000 acres of picturesque land, including a 100-acre working farm.

The 2024 Idea House was created by a talented team of experts including builder Tom Dillard of Dillard-Jones, architect Kirsten Schoettelkotte of MHK Architecture, interior designer Allison Elebash of Allison Elebash Interiors, and landscape architect Scott Parker of DesignWorks.

“From the two live oak trees that adorn the lot, to the picturesque dining room window that frames the marsh, to all of the local touches from Charleston-based artists and contributors, this home is all about its location,” Sid Evans, Editor in Chief of Southern Living said. “We couldn’t have picked a more perfect community for the house. The farm, the river views, and the wildlife that Kiawah River offers help complete the picture of Lowcountry living.”

Products and designs from 18 sponsors of the 2024 Idea House integrated within the home include: Alabama Stone Co. (A Division of Vetter Stone), Clopay ®, Command™ Brand, 3M CLAW™ Discover South Carolina, Heavyweight Hanging Solution, Ivory Soap, James Hardie, Kerrygold, Marvin ®, Monogram Luxury Appliances, PEDIGREE ® Brand, Propane Education & Resource Council, Regina Andrew®, Sherwin-Williams ®, Southern Living ® Home Collection Exclusively at Dillard’s, Southern Living ® Plant Collection, and Zuri ® Premium Decking.

“Each year, our Idea House sets a new standard for design, perfectly blending Southern charm with contemporary innovation,” said Deirdre Finnegan, SVP/Group Publisher. “We thank our sponsors and partners for their vital role in making this year’s home a showcase of creativity and excellence.”

The home is open to the public for tours from August 23 to December 22. A portion of the ticket sales will benefit three local charities: Communities In Schools of SC, Sea Island Habitat for Humanity, and the Emmanuel Nine Memorial Foundation. Beginning in November, the Idea House will be decorated for the holidays, with scheduled seasonal activations taking place at the home.

In addition to being the backdrop for this year’s Idea House, Kiawah River is also home to a new luxury resort, The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection. This September, The Dunlin will host the Southern Living Lowcountry Tailgate, part of the FOOD & WINE Classic in Charleston.

A Southern Living House Plan for the 2024 Idea House is available for purchase at SouthernLivingHousePlans.com. For a video tour and more about the 2024 Idea House, check out SouthernLiving.com. Tickets for the tours are available here.

ABOUT SOUTHERN LIVING
Southern Living celebrates the essence of life in the South, covering the best in Southern food, homes, gardens and travel. Southern Living connects consumers to the region’s rich culture through a robust multi-platform presence, including print, digital, social, and events, as well as its Biscuits & Jam and Ask Grumpy podcasts and many licensing partnerships. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Southern Living is part of the Dotdash Meredith publishing family.

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Photo by LAUREY GLENN

UK based SENTIA Spirits Botanical Supplements Now Available in Charleston, SC and the U.S.

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GABA LABS HAS LAUNCHED SENTIA SPIRITS IN THE UNITED STATES

Social Drinking for a New Generation of Conscious Consumers 

GABA Labs announces the launch of SENTIA Spirits (https://sentiaspirits.com) in the United States. One of the UK and Europe’s leading Functional Drinks SENTIA Spirits are designed to target our GABA receptors. SENTIA addresses the needs of modern consumers moving toward a mindful and health-conscious lifestyle.

According to recent data, there is a noticeable trend of reduced alcohol consumption among people in the United States. The NCS Consumer Sentiment Survey 2024* highlights a significant shift, with over 41% of Americans expressing a conscious effort to drink less. This represents an increase of 7 percentage points from 2023, indicating a growing awareness and intention to modify drinking habits.

Consumers are more informed about their personal well-being than ever before and show increasing preference for alternative choices that align with holistic approaches to health and wellness. The NCS survey found that more than one in three Americans (34%) identify as mindful drinkers.

Today’s search for wellness is disrupting old conventions and reshaping how we coexist on this planet. Fueled by a collective ethos of innovation and inclusivity, new consumers are challenging norms and embracing a paradigm shift in their consumption choices.

David Orren, Co-Founder of SENTIA Spirits, says: “We are excited by the demand for SENTIA in the United States. The enthusiasm and support from US consumers have been truly inspiring. It’s a testament to a brand-new generation of consumers willing to challenge convention to take control over their own lives. In a time of increasing health insecurity, we’re seen a growing trend in self-care.”

Orren continues, “As social beings, getting together to socialize is natural and hugely important. And as consumers, why shouldn’t we be able to get together to socialize whilst also taking care of our health? If science has made this possible, why shouldn’t we get what we want from alcohol, without the alcohol?’” 

Combining a wisdom of plants with modern science, SENTIA will enable American adults to enjoy a functional drink that transcends traditional categories, promoting relaxation, balance, and well-being.

SENTIA Spirits is available to buy on Amazon and on the SENTIA Spirits USA website and is priced at $41.75.

SENTIA AND GABA LABS

SENTIA Spirits  (https://sentiaspirits.com), was founded by renowned British neuropsychopharmacologist Professor David Nutt in 2020, to offer consumers a choice beyond alcohol and alcohol-free.

At the heart of SENTIA lies science and innovation. A prominent force for change in the alcohol space for over 20 years, David recognized the need to offer a practical solution for mindful drinkers who understand the benefits of alcohol, but do not want the compromises that come with it.

SENTIA is not just a product; it’s a promise of memorable moments.  Each ingredient has been chosen with care and purpose, combining a complex flavor profile and mouthfeel with bioavailability and function, aligning with SENTIA Spirits’ mission of bringing people together.

WHAT IS GABA?

GABA (or gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a compound found in nearly all life on earth. Whilst GABA has a multitude of functions in the human body, in the brain it acts as a neurotransmitter. GABA acts as a natural break on brain and central nervous system activity, causing feelings of relaxation and calmness, opening the door to a sense of ease in social situations and all the positive benefits such moments bring with them. 

SENTIA Spirits are a new generation of alcohol alternatives containing carefully selected blend of GABA enhancing ingredients to promote relaxation and the support of cognitive function.

SENTIA Spirits offer a safer alternative to experience those early sociable effects of alcohol without the compromises alcohol can bring.  

The main functions of GABA include:                                                           

  • Emotional balance: By modulating brain activity, GABA helps to maintain emotional stability. 
  • Sleep regulation: GABA promotes healthy sleep by reducing activity in the central nervous system. 
  • Relaxation: GABA calms the brain by reducing excessive neural activity. 

PRODUCTS:

SENTIA Spirits is designed to be paired with your favourite mixer into an infinite range of possibilities.

SENTIA Spirits – GABA RED

Blending Botanical insight with neuroscientific expertise, GABA Red is powered by passionflower & ashwagandha for mental equilibrium. Designed to relax and inspire social connection.

  • Taste: Sweet heady aromatics, rich herbal complexity, bittersweet spiced berries
  • Mood: Designed to help you relax, connect, and harmonise!
  • One Common favourite: enjoy 25ml over ice, with a premium tonic and an orange garnish or in a cocktail.

SENTIA Spirits – GABA BLACK                                                       

Blending Botanical insight with neuroscientific expertise, GABA Black powered by Ginkgo & Ginseng for concentration and cognitive function. Designed to revitalise and ignite conversation. 

  • Taste: Spiced pepper warmth, intense, earthy body, and smoky bitter finish
  • Mood: Designed to help you re-vitalise and find your focus.
  • One Common favourite: enjoy 25ml over ice, with a soda, ginger beer, or in a cocktail.

Mount Pleasant Business Spotlight: Lighthouse Family Chiropractic – Education focused with specialized relationship driven care

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By Mark A. Leon

Have you been looking for natural, drug-free solutions to help your family with struggles ranging from seasonal allergies, constipation, bedwetting, anxiety, ear infections, or even chronic neurological conditions such as Autism and ADHD? Maybe you’ve tried all the detoxes, supplements, diet changes, natural solutions, and visited all the specialists, but still feel like something is missing and you aren’t getting to the real root cause… 

In today’s world, it is not uncommon for parents to leave the doctor’s office feeling unheard and ignored. Lighthouse Family Chiropractic (LFC) is the place where you will feel heard and you will leave with more HOPE and ANSWERS than you walked in with. 

Why the Lowcountry Loves Lighthouse Family Chiropractic

Education, Care and Specialization

We are a nervous system focused chiropractic office that specializes mainly in pediatrics and prenatal care, with advanced certifications in helping children with Sensory Processing Disorders. Being a nervous system focused office means we look at the body as a whole and how it relates to overall health. This is our main focus in children who struggle with chronic illness and are always sick, have digestive issues, big emotions, allergies, struggle in the classroom because of sensory challenges, Autism, ADHD, and so much more.  We also specialize in working with moms during pregnancy to allow for optimal pelvic function and the best birth outcomes! 

Having a well-regulated nervous system isn’t just for kids and pregnant moms, but all adults! Nervous system dysregulation in adults is very common and can be seen as digestive issues, extreme anxiety, fatigue, ADHD, and more.  

Innovative Technology

At LFC, we use state-of-the-art technology called the INSiGHT Scans. With these nervous system scans, we are able to determine whether you or your child have stress stuck within their nervous system and to gauge its severity. Early intervention with drug-free care options, such as Neuro-Tonal Chiropractic adjustments, can effectively address nervous system dysregulation, subluxation, and dysautonomia. These scans are completely safe and offer a non-invasive way to measure nervous system dysregulation in the tiniest of infants to pregnant moms to adults of all ages, in under 15 minutes.

Nervous System Focused Chiropractic Care

LFC is a new leader in the Lowcountry that brings a brand-new perspective to health by focusing on the nervous system. Dr. Devin DiCenzo and Dr. Liv Porpora use their expert level knowledge and training to provide natural, drug-free solutions to families struggling with chronic health conditions that have been labeled as “common” but are certainly not normal! Both Dr. Liv and Dr. Devin trained extensively under the guidance of their mentor, Dr. Tony Ebel, a world class pediatric, prenatal and family chiropractor.  He explains that the rapid rise of chronic health struggles today is from stress within the nervous system that may have started as early as during pregnancy and at birth.

Relationship Driven Patient and Doctor Care

Dr. Devin and Dr. Liv have both seen the life changing results that come from this specific type of care in their own lives. Both doctors dealt with their own struggles such as ADHD and focus issues as children, chronic insomnia, digestive issues, and so much more. It was with neurologically focused chiropractic care that they saw true lasting changes for the first time ever! Dr. Tony’s inspiration and guidance with the Pediatric Experience inspired them both to pursue opening Lighthouse Family Chiropractic in order to best serve the families of the lowcountry community. 

It is their mission to be a beacon of HOPE, ANSWERS, and HEALTH to families through nervous system-based chiropractic care.

For free access to their Resource Guide or Perfect Storm Webinar, use the links below to get this information automatically sent to you!

Charleston  Business Spotlight:  The Barker Lounge Charleston:  It’s like a constant happy hour for your Lowcountry Dog

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By Mark A. Leon

Where your dog is treated as if they were at home with you!

Our Lowcountry dogs embody a deeper sense of love.  Their loving spirit brighten our days and nights.  From beach walks, to dog parks, hikes and festivals, our furry children are a reason for being.  So, when the time comes to leave them for a vacation, business trip or daycare, you want to ensure they are in the hands of people that understand and will provide the same level of love and care.  The Barker Lounge (2337 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29414) is just that place.  

With a careful blend of sensitivity, care, fun and unbridled love, the staff at The Barker Lounge make the transition from home to care seamless.

Offering Services in Dog daycare, boarding and grooming, The Barker Lounge has you covered for single day, short or long hiatuses.  

The facility is open 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM seven days a week, except major holidays.

What sets The Barker Lounge Apart in the Lowcountry?

Group Play:  They are a group-play all-day style facility!  The only time the pups are in the kennel for daycare is when it’s naptime in the middle of the day.  For boarding dogs, the only time they’re in the kennel is for eating and sleeping!  Careful planning goes into how the dogs are grouped based on size and temperament.  

Free First Day:  The first day any new dog is free.  The staff conducts a careful evaluation process to ensure each dog gets put in with the right group that best suits their needs and play style.  

Limited Group Sizes:  Group sizes are limited to allow the staff the optimized setting to maintain good behavior and good play!

Ownership and Management That Truly Cares:  Make sure to greet owners Caitlin and Russ Owens when you visit The Barker Lounge. They are not just the faces of the establishment; their journey began with a deep love for their dogs, which fuels their dedication every day. This authentic bond reassures clients that their beloved pets will receive exceptional care, affection, and a touch of fun.

Leading the daily operations is Kevin Springman, the General Manager and dynamic force behind the Charleston Barker Lounge. With seven years of experience as part of the Barker Lounge family, he ensures that every aspect of the business reflects their commitment to quality and care.

What to learn more?  Follow or contact The Barker Lounge:

Charleston Real Estate News: Iron Gate Realty Merges with The Cassina Group, Welcoming Top Realtors® Renee Reinert Pote and Doreen Sanderson

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CHARLESTON, SC (August 12, 2024)— The Cassina Group, Charleston’s leading luxury boutique real estate firm, is thrilled to announce a merger with Iron Gate Realty, bringing esteemed REALTOR® Renee Reinert Pote and licensed assistant Doreen Sanderson to their team.

Renee Reinert Pote, the founder of Iron Gate Realty, has had an illustrious career in real estate, being named REALTOR® of Distinction for the past 21 consecutive years. Since founding Iron Gate Realty in 2009, Reinert Pote has built an impressive portfolio of luxury sales, particularly in her home neighborhood of Daniel Island. Her expertise and dedication have made her a respected figure in the local real estate community, with notable roles such as serving on the Board of the Global Business Chapter of the Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS®. She also previously served on the Professional Standards Committee and the Hearing Panel for the organization.

“I am so excited to be a part of The Cassina Group, who is already well known as the number one luxury boutique real estate firm in Charleston,” says Reinert Pote. “I wanted to keep my focus on Daniel Island and maintain the boutique feel that I had built with Iron Gate Realty. Adding The Cassina Group’s innovative technology, international marketing, and a wider span of networking within the company will allow me to further serve my clients and advance my business.”

Jimmy Dye and Robertson Allen, co-founders of The Cassina Group, expressed their excitement about the merger. “Renee’s wealth of experience, coupled with her deep-rooted connection to Daniel Island, makes her an invaluable addition to our team. We are thrilled to have her join us and look forward to the incredible value she will bring to our clients,” said Dye and Allen.

Reinert will be joined by Doreen Sanderson, who has also transitioned to The Cassina Group from Iron Gate Realty. Sanderson, a fellow Daniel Island resident, began her career in real estate in 2021, driven by her passion for the Daniel Island community and long-standing interest in real estate. Since then, she has worked closely with Reinert Pote as a Sales Associate and licensed assistant.

Owen Tyler, Managing Broker and partner at The Cassina Group, shared his enthusiasm.  “We are excited to welcome both Renee and Doreen to The Cassina Group. I have known and worked closely with Renee for years, and I am thrilled to have her with us at The Cassina Group. Renee and Doreen’s dedication to their clients and love for Daniel Island align perfectly with our values, and we look forward to the new opportunities this partnership will bring.”

For more information about The Cassina Group, please visit TheCassinaGroup.com or contact their office at 843.628.0008.

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Camp Snoopy Gets Bigger, Better and Snoopy-er in 2025 at Carowinds (North Carolina/South Carolina)

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Carowinds’ Historic Investment Includes Two Major New Family Attractions

CHARLOTTE, N.C.– Carowinds’ Camp Snoopy will unveil two new family-friendly attractions in 2025 as part of the largest investment in family attractions in the park’s history: a new family launch roller coaster and an interactive raft ride. These additions, alongside splash play zones and a meet-and-greet experience with Peanuts™ costume characters, offer more spots for families to cool off and new character experiences. The new attractions promise endless adventured fun for guests of all ages, making Camp Snoopy a must-visit destination for family fun in 2025.

New Attractions:

  • Snoopy’s Racing Railway: Guests can join Snoopy as he races to deliver root beer and pizza to Camp Snoopy’s Mess Hall, where Woodstock and his yellow bird buddies are causing quite a ruckus. This family-friendly steel launch coaster accelerates from 0 to 31 mph in seconds, providing an exhilarating adventure for all ages. Riders will experience exciting dips and wild turns, ensuring the delivery arrives safely and on time. Riders get double the fun as they race through the course twice.
  • Charlie Brown’s River Raft Blast: Families can hop aboard an eight-seater boat at Snoopy’s swimming hole for a splish-splash adventure with family and friends. Equipped with on-board and onshore water cannons, riders can engage in friendly water skirmishes with other boats, spraying each other as they navigate the river channel. With their trusty water cannon mounted on the side, they can join in the excitement with other campers. Throughout their journey, riders will encounter their favorite Peanuts characters swimming, floating, and splashing—all eager to drench them in fun!

“We’re excited to introduce the latest adventures in Camp Snoopy in 2025,” Manny Gonzalez, vice president and general manager for Carowinds, said. “Our re-imagined Camp Snoopy will allow families to ride and play together, immersing them in a summer camp experience with the Peanuts gang. From the thrilling twists of Snoopy’s Racing Railway to the splashes at Charlie Brown’s River Raft Blast, our focus is on family fun. These new features will transform Camp Snoopy into more than just a place to play and cool off; it will become a destination for creating family memories.”

New Enhancements:

  • Splash Play Zones: Families can beat the heat in Camp Snoopy’s brand-new splash play zone areas. Featuring enhanced shade and refreshing water features, these areas are designed to ensure everyone stays cool and has fun. The ample shade and water make it the perfect relaxing spot on a hot Carolina summer day.
  • Camp Store Meet-and-Greet Experience: Guests can enter the newly remodeled Camp Store to meet Peanuts costume characters at their interactive, camp-themed meet-and-greet area. Complete with rustic log benches around a cozy firepit, this air-conditioned environment offers ideal photo opportunities and memorable interactions with favorite characters.

Unlimited Family Fun:
Unlimited access and visits to Camp Snoopy for the rest of 2024 and all of 2025 are available with a 2025 Gold Season Pass, now on sale at the lowest price of the season. A Gold Season Pass includes unlimited visits to Carowinds and Carolina Harbor Waterpark, admission to seasonal events like Tricks and Treats, SCarowinds and WinterFest, free parking, exclusive discounts, and eligibility for two Pre-K Passes.

For more information on the new Camp Snoopy attractions, visit www.Carowinds.com and follow Carowinds’ social media channels.

About Carowinds
Carowinds, a 400-acre amusement park located on the North Carolina-South Carolina state line, is home to top-rated roller coasters, including Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster, as well as more than 58 rides, attractions, and live stage shows. Carolina Harbor, a 26-acre water park, features a variety of water slides, wave pools, large play structures and a three-acre children’s play area. Carowinds Camp Wilderness and SpringHill Suites by Marriott at Carowinds are guest accommodations located on-site. For information on attractions and accommodations at Carowinds, visit www.carowinds.com or call 704.588.2600.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) is North America’s largest regional amusement-resort operator with 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks and nine resort properties across 17 states in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Focused on its purpose of making people happy, Six Flags provides fun, immersive and memorable experiences to millions of guests every year with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks, resorts and a portfolio of beloved intellectual property such as Looney Tunes®, DC Comics® and PEANUTS®.

About Peanuts 
The characters of Peanuts and related intellectual property are owned by Peanuts Worldwide, which is 41% owned by WildBrain Ltd., 39% owned by Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., and 20% owned by the family of Charles M. Schulz, who first introduced the world to Peanuts in 1950, when the comic strip debuted in seven newspapers. Since then, Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang have made an indelible mark on popular culture. In addition to enjoying beloved Peanuts shows and specials on Apple TV+, fans of all ages celebrate the Peanuts brand worldwide through thousands of consumer products, as well as amusement park attractions, cultural events, social media, and comic strips available in all formats, from traditional to digital. In 2018, Peanuts partnered with NASA on a multi-year Space Act Agreement designed to inspire a passion for space exploration and STEM among the next generation of students.

South Carolina Afterschool Alliance Offering Free Help to SC Students to Complete FAFSA Applications and Secure College Funding for 2024-2025

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COLUMBIA, S.C., Aug. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The South Carolina Afterschool Alliance (SCAA), as an official partner with the U.S. Department of Education, is offering free assistance to South Carolina students to help complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for college.

SCAA is aware students need assistance with FAFSA, as completions among high school graduates are down nearly 11% in South Carolina compared to last year. When students complete the FAFSA, they can unlock numerous financial aid opportunities. Completing the FAFSA can provide different types of aid beyond loans, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study programs, which can help cover expenses like books and housing as well as tuition. SCAA aims to help students who have not been able to complete their FAFSA for college access and affordability.

SCAA’s FAFSA Project Coordinator, Leah Moody, is leading the effort to support students needing assistance. Students should email LMoody@scafterschool.com for further information.

Students will be able to select a session time and receive in-person support to complete their FAFSA at community events in select counties in August and September. Once confirmed, details about each event will be shared on SCAA’s website and social media channels.

“It is not too late for students to fill out the FAFSA form and receive college aid,” said Zelda Waymer, President and CEO of SCAA. “Past issues with the form, which have delayed students, have been resolved, and our team is here to help students access the financial aid they need to pursue their dreams.”

About the South Carolina Afterschool Alliance

South Carolina Afterschool Alliance (SCAA) is a partnership among state government agencies, municipal leaders, foundations, higher education, business leaders, the arts community, local school districts, after school program providers and other critical stakeholders joining together to form a supportive statewide network for after-school and summer learning programs. SCAA works with its partners to raise awareness, increase sustainability, and promote the importance of quality afterschool programs. For additional information please visit http://scafterschool.com/.