South Carolina Ranks Among the Most UnSafe States in the United States (47th Overall)

Source: WalletHub

WalletHub released a new study Tuesday with a list ranking the each state by safety, and South Carolina appears close to the bottom, ranking 47th in the country.

The study used data from several aspects of safety, including personal and residential safety, financial safety, road safety, workplace safety and emergency preparedness.  The study noted South Carolina has the most fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles of travel.  But South Carolina did have the 18th highest law enforcement employees per capita. It also ranked low on the list for bullying incidence rate, at 16.

The states that ranked lower than South Carolina in overall safety were Oklahoma, Louisiana and Mississippi, respectively.  The Palmetto State’s neighboring states fared much better, with North Carolina ranked at No. 17 and Georgia at No. 32.

South Carolina were also listed in the following rankings, with 1 being the safest and 50 being the least safe:

▪ 46th for murders and non-negligent manslaughters per capita

▪ 44th for assaults per capita

▪ 38th for total loss amounts from climate disasters per capita

▪ 44th for fatal occupational injuries per 100,000 full-time workers

▪ 37th for sex offenders per capita

▪ 37th for share of population lacking health insurance

Overall Rank
(1 = Safest)
State Total Score ‘Personal & Residential Safety’ Rank ‘Financial Safety’ Rank ‘Road Safety’ Rank ‘Workplace Safety’ Rank ‘Emergency Preparedness’ Rank
1 Vermont 65.09 1 5 34 15 14
2 Maine 62.46 7 13 16 17 3
3 Massachusetts 62.03 4 10 8 26 8
4 Minnesota 61.78 14 6 3 4 21
5 New Hampshire 61.48 8 1 13 37 4
6 Washington 60.75 16 17 7 7 6
7 Connecticut 59.98 2 27 26 22 15
8 Rhode Island 59.65 13 30 1 25 11
9 Utah 59.48 29 9 14 1 1
10 Hawaii 58.60 11 2 42 18 10
11 Virginia 57.81 12 14 22 2 27
12 Oregon 56.12 39 18 5 8 13
13 New York 56.04 3 26 19 27 28
14 Maryland 55.82 18 21 17 6 23
15 New Jersey 55.09 6 38 29 20 30
16 Indiana 54.74 19 19 9 11 29
17 North Carolina 54.26 10 20 30 5 37
18 Iowa 54.03 5 8 24 13 48
19 Arizona 53.24 35 34 49 3 7
20 Wisconsin 52.94 20 12 36 30 16
21 California 52.20 32 25 40 12 18
22 Pennsylvania 51.73 9 29 45 36 25
23 Ohio 51.62 15 35 28 29 24
24 Idaho 51.21 23 15 23 44 19
25 Delaware 51.17 42 32 4 24 17
26 Illinois 51.07 22 40 2 28 33
27 Kentucky 50.31 24 31 18 23 32
28 Michigan 50.19 46 36 33 9 9
29 Colorado 50.08 28 11 25 38 26
30 Nevada 49.43 44 47 43 14 2
31 West Virginia 49.06 25 37 31 42 20
32 Georgia 47.92 26 45 12 34 31
33 Wyoming 47.30 27 22 39 41 22
34 Nebraska 46.98 21 7 27 40 42
35 Tennessee 46.85 45 39 10 16 35
36 New Mexico 45.98 47 49 48 10 12
37 Kansas 45.21 31 23 6 31 46
38 Alaska 45.04 50 43 32 19 5
39 North Dakota 44.53 17 4 41 50 38
40 Alabama 43.52 33 48 11 35 44
41 Texas 43.08 30 33 21 33 47
42 Florida 41.36 36 42 37 39 43
43 South Dakota 41.04 41 3 38 46 40
44 Montana 40.60 34 16 44 45 41
45 Arkansas 40.02 48 24 15 43 34
46 Missouri 39.90 43 41 46 32 39
47 South Carolina 39.21 49 28 47 21 36
48 Oklahoma 38.11 38 44 35 48 45
49 Louisiana 35.73 40 50 20 47 49
50 Mississippi 30.70 37 46 50 49

Charleston Named One of The Most Instagrammable U.S. Cities to Visit This Summer by Redbook

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With massive parks, outdoor piazzas, rooftop bars overlooking the sun-soaked downtown, and beaches, lakes and ponds outfitted with wildlife, you don’t have to leave the U.S. this summer to get a Discover-page-worthy ‘gram. From Boston’s new Greenway Park to Miami’s sparkling coastline to Seattle’s bustling Pike Place Market, there are a million and one reasons to stay stateside and explore the outdoor havens that make these cities so darn picturesque. Whether you’re coming from near or far, these are America’s most Instagrammable destinations. (After one peek, you’ll easily see why).

Charleston, South Carolina

 

Quintessential Southern charm, candy-painted historic mansions, horse-drawn carriages, and streets flanked with centuries-old, moss-laden oaks—it’s no wonder Charleston, South Carolina has long been fabled as one of the South’s most beautiful cities. Although the town is often flooded with visitors, there are plenty of beautiful shots to be captured in and around the old city market, down the cobblestoned streets of downtown (like Church Street and Chambers), along the Battery, or near the Waterfront Park’s iconic pineapple fountain. Beyond downtown, the neighboring areas of James Island (home to the famed Angle Oak), Isle of Palms (with its miles of beaches), and West Ashley’s famous plantations (think Middleton Plantation and Magnolia) make for scenic shots—especially during sunset.

Boston, Massachusetts

From the inspiring and captivating sunsets hailing over Fenway Park to the sprawling Greenway Park (and its whimsical carousel) to Beach Hill’s famed Acorn Street’s townhouse-lined cobblestoned streets, the city of Boston is an Instagrammer’s dream come summertime. Of course, there’s far more than just these big sights that’ll make your followers swoon. For fewer crowds but just as pretty a pic, head to Charlestown’s abandoned train car, the Mary Baker Eddy Library (where you can wander through a giant painted globe), or the secret garden that currently occupies the top of a parking garage in Cambridge.

Chicago, Illinois

Known the world over for its iconic architecture that’s a mix of both modern and historic, Chicago’s skyline is one of the most recognized in the world. Aside from the famous Cloud Gate (AKA the Bean), Millennium Park, and the towering John Hancock building, the city is actually home to a million other landmarks, sights, and quirky neighborhoods that beckon a VSCO filter. For quirky street art and a collection of the city’s most eccentric locals, visit Wicker Park’s “hipster highway” (AKA Milwaukee Ave.) and stop into the Handlebar restaurant or the Wormhole coffee shop, which is home to an actual replica DeLorean. Not as crowded as Millennium, but just as picturesque is Lincoln Park, which spans 1,208 acres and overlooks Lake Michigan. Skip the fabled golden hour and hit the lakefront at sunrise to get a stunning view of the downtown skyline—without having to fight for a spot.

La Jolla, California

If you’re looking for premium #content, head over to La Jolla, the hilly seaside town that sits on the border of San Diego. No matter where you wander, you’re going to find something worthy of your feed, whether it’s the famous “what’s your favorite color” mural that sits on Eads Ave., the bold and bright flower fields of Carlsbad Ranch, or the coastal views found at the Sunset Cliffs, which is best visited—you guessed it—at sunset. A town boasting more street art than many others in California, you’d be remiss not to spend time soaking up the many examples that make up the Murals of La Jolla project.

Miami Beach, Florida

There are few places that are as iconic on social media than Miami, with its famed art deco buildings looming on Ocean Drive in South Beach, the bikini-packed beaches lining the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, Little Havana’s domino players and mouthwatering Cuban sandwiches, and the vibrantly painted buildings of Wynwood. For photos that won’t need a filter, head to the last location and spend an hour or so snapping your way through the trendy neighborhood’s painted alleyways. For one of the best views of the city, skip South Beach in favor of East Miami’s rooftops, which offer stunning views of the ocean, the downtown skyline, Virginia Key, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. For a more unexpected shot (and to test your phone’s new slow shutter app), head to the Best Buy garage on fifth and Alton for some prime time-lapse photo opps.

Seattle, Washington

If you spend any amount of time scrolling through Instagram’s most popular posts, you’re going to find at least two, maybe three, images showcasing some part of Seattle’s iconic geography. Although many flock to the Space Needle for sweeping views of the city or into the bustling Pike’s Place Market, there’s actually an astounding array of places a little more off the beaten path that are just as likely to boost your followers. A snap of Paramount Theatre pairs well with the Gingham filter, for example. And for a view of the city made famous by 10 Things I Hate About You, go to Kerry Park at dusk to see the Space Needle and surrounding buildings sparkling at night. The EMP’s strangely curved metal exterior (that glows in the sunlight) makes for an epic addition to your Insta Stories. However, if you’re feeling a little basic, grab a frap and take a #foodintheair shot in front of the original Starbucks on 1st and Pike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

When people think of swoon-worthy Maine towns, Kennebunkport is almost always top of list. For one, this coastal seaside escape boasts presidential pedigree, being the home of the Bush family. Although it doesn’t often the quirk of neighboring Portland, it does offer ample beauty perfect for sharing. The shops, like Farm + Table, boast artisanal crafts wrapped in beautiful packages and nautical-inspired pillows, blankets, and the like, while the restaurants offer enough bright red lobsters and mayo-laden lobster rolls for creating the ultimate #foodporn shot. You’d be remiss not to at least visit Gooch’s beach (home to Bennet’s famous sandwich shop) or have your best friend snap a lifestyle shot of you paddle-boarding into the sunset in front of Cape Porpoise Lighthouse.

Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Founded in the 1700s, Alexandria is easily one of Washington D.C.’s most famous suburbs. Touting cobblestone streets, a beautifully restored dock nestled on the Potomac, and pastel row homes on Queen and Prince Streets, nearly every block brings a shot you just have to capture. (Hurry and you could catch the cherry blossoms and magnolia trees that are in full bloom around Waterfront Park.) If you’re a foodie, head to King Street on Saturday to capture the area’s fresh produce. Beyond the main streets of King, Queen, and Prince, the iconic trolley makes for great Instagram fodder (especially during the evening). For engagement shoots or lifestyle shots, you can’t beat the brick Court House, which sits right on King Street, or the whimsical Old Town Riverboat.

From: Marie Claire
Original Article from Redbook

Recommended Marketing Slogans for the New Charleston, SC

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Now that Charleston, South Carolina is transforming to a new look and feel, we thought it would be nice to provide some marketing recommendations to help assist our tourism board.

We have compiled some taglines that we feel provide a realistic look at the new Charleston.  We hope you can relate and maybe even put a few of them close to your heart.

Charleston, South Carolina Marketing Slogan Recommendations

  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Home of Geriatrics and Drunks
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  The Crane Capital of the United States
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where $600 can pay the rent for a month for a homeless family, but we would rather spend it on one night at a downtown boutique hotel
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  If the flooding doesn’t destroy your car, the potholes will
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where Prime Real Estate is anything not near a construction site
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where diversity is choosing between French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where cholesterol and smoking are part of the our diet
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where Rush Hour means stopping at a bar for a beer because you ain’t moving
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where being green means separating your craft beer cans from domestic beer cans
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where you can find a brewery or lawyer on any street corner
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Where there is a festival for everything and we mean everything
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  Move here quickly before we sink into the harbor
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  The Neverland of the South – Where you never have to grow up
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  The city formally owned by Charleston
  • Welcome to Charleston, SC:  The cosmopolitan capital of South Carolina

Hank Williams Jr. Exclusive Interview with Charleston Daily Ahead of Charleston Concert Stop in July

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Photo Credit: Webster PR

By Minta Pavliscsak

We all have that certain song or artist that takes us back to a special place or time as soon as the notes start to play. For me, one of my clearest musical memories is listening to Hank Williams Jr. with my daddy when I was a little girl. My father was my world, and I lost him this past October after a short battle with Leukemia.

Yet, over the last several months, memories have continued to flood my mind of riding the four-wheeler together, hunting for arrowheads around the lake, and learning how to drive a five speed. And then there is one of my favorite musical memories, tied to Hank’s 1982 Greatest Hits album. Always a daddy’s girl, we would dance together, me standing on his feet, spinning around in our living room while that album blared from the speakers in our house out in the Georgia countryside. That very same album has accompanied me on road trips, sitting around campfires, and is still with me today.

To be able to interview the man responsible for so many of my fondest memories with my father was truly an honor. From a musical position it is inspiring. From a journalistic position it is a great achievement. And from a personal experience, beyond rewarding. The same Southern values of family and tradition that I grew up with can be found at the heart of Hank’s music.

Never a stranger to music, Hank Williams Jr. started his singing career at the age of eight, singing his daddy’s songs. He performed at the Grand Ole Opry at age eleven. The country, blues, and a little bit of rock-n-roll sound we know today emerged with his 1976 release of Hank Williams, Jr. and Friends album.

As a 2007 Inductee into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Emmy Award Winner, Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, and recipient of CMT’s Johnny Cash Visionary Award, Hank Williams Jr. has been honored by his peers and fans and continues to be an unstoppable force.  We are thrilled that he has included Charleston as one of the stops on his current tour, scheduled to roll into the Volvo Car Stadium on July 22nd.

Photo Credit: Webster PR

This is my candid conversation with Hank Williams Jr. His words, like his music, speak for themselves.

CD: “Country music has evolved so much over the past decade, and there has been so much crossover genera in music. Which artist(s) do you feel is pushing country music to new beginnings? Who are you
listening to these days?”

HW JR.: “Well, I don’t listen to much radio unless I am in the truck.  I really like Eric Church, Justin Moore, Jason Aldean, and Chris Janson.  All of them have done shows with me and I think they are doing some great things.”

CD: “You have meet so many “greats” in your life, and so many from an early age. Who were you most nervous to meet? (Do you still get nervous when meeting people?)”
HW Jr.: “Remember, when mother put me out on the stage at 8 years old, I really didn’t know anything else but to perform.  We had everyone from Fats Domino to Carl Perkins to Earl Scruggs to Little Richard over at mother’s house.  I never really looked at them as anything but people, so to me they just taught me how to play instruments.  So, I guess I really don’t get nervous around people like that, since I have known nothing else.”

CD: “With a musical career that started at eight years old and has encompassed sold out shows, multiple #1 hits, 6 platinum albums, a shelf of Emmys -and a Grammy-, many, many country music awards, and not to mention overcoming the hardships of everyday life, what is the one particular moment in your life that you are most proud of?”
HW Jr.: “I really appreciate all of the awards, but the biggest thrill is seeing that little boy or girl when they catch their first fish or get their first deer after I take them on the first fishing or hunting trip.  I really enjoy those moments more than anything.”

CD: “You performed in the shadow of your father for so many years of your career. When you made the transformation into THE Hank Williams Jr. it was a risky one, and one that came with mixed emotion from your fans at the time, some of which you lost. What would you say is the key to being able to let go and going your own way?”
HW Jr.: “You know when I first hit the stage everyone wanted me to do daddy’s songs and when I tried to do other songs people really didn’t want to hear them.  It was after the accident that I decided that I just needed to do what I wanted to do and really not overthink what people thought as they either needed to accept me for me or just not listen to what records I was making.  In the mid 80’s it seemed that people started to really pay attention and I have never looked back!”

CD: “We all have our top five all-time favorite Hank Williams, Jr. songs. What are your top five all-time favorite Hank Williams Jr. songs?”
HW Jr.: “Whichever one I am performing last at the shows!  Not really, but I really can’t say what is my favorite.  When you write as many songs as I have and have been fortunate enough to have some of them become hits naturally people think those are your favorites, but really there are some album cuts that meant more to me than just the hits.  Songs are also like your children, each songs has its own special meaning or story behind it.  So I really can’t pick one over the other.”

CD: “Aside from your musical interest, what do you enjoy doing on your down time?”
HW JR.: “You can catch me in a deer stand or out on the lake fishing.  I am fortunate that I have the most loyal hardcore fans, so I only do about 25 shows a year.  The rest of the year, I am in the woods somewhere.”

CD: “What’s next for you? Is there a new album in the works?”
HW Jr.: “Not working on any new albums, but got some news coming soon that I think lots of my ‘rowdy friends’ will be excited about.  Stay tuned on Monday night!”

CD: “Sure, we all go through our ups and downs, but you have overcome the kinds of obstacles that most of us could not even imagine one of them happening in a lifetime. For our final question, could you leave us some words of wisdom from the great Hank Williams Jr.?”
HW Jr.: “Be who you are. Don’t be someone or something that others want you to be!”

In 2008, my daddy gave me a snowflake necklace for Christmas. It was to remind me of how unique I am and how being so makes me amazing. “Be who you are.” I can’t think of any better closing words.

Hank Williams Jr. is a humble man who enjoys the simpler things in life: Family, friends, traditions, and maybe some Monday night football is all anyone really needs to survive.

Photo Credit: Webster PR

 

Southwest Airlines expands service including flights to/from Cincinnati and direct flights from Charleston, SC to Denver, CO

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DALLAS — With the arrival of Southwest Airlines Flight 2120 from Chicago Midway (MDW), Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) ushered in a new era of air travel as it officially began service  at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). The carrier is offering eight daily nonstop flights, five between CVG and MDW and three between CVG and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI).

“Before we landed in Cincinnati today, travelers were stuck paying high fares and high fees, but that’s all changing today with our brand, Customer-friendly policies, and no small regional jets,” said Tammy Romo, Southwest’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “We’re at the beginning of our Cincinnati story, and the future looks very bright.”

The arrival of Southwest’s first flight into CVG was greeted by a ceremonial water arch and ribbon-cutting, along with some great giveaways for Customers onboard. Among those Customers were 18 children from Chicago. For many of the kids, who are part of a group called “By the Hand Club for Kids,” this was their first airplane ride and visit to another state. The group was also getting the opportunity to take in a Cincinnati Reds baseball game thanks to the Cincinnati Reds and Major League Baseball.

“We’re thrilled to have Southwest join the roster of our airline partners, and that our passengers have another option when traveling to and from CVG,” said Candace McGraw, Chief Executive Officer, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. “We look forward to Southwest’s success and growth in the Tri-State region.”

New International Service

Today, Southwest launched four, new international routes from Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL), including service to one of the carrier’s newest countries served, Cayman Islands.  Now in the home stretch of a $333 million Terminal 1 revitalization in partnership with Broward County, Fla., the facility features new international gates, additional border processing capacity, and concessions and art reflective of South Florida. Southwest Leaders last week announced initial fares and a flight schedule for service from FLL to Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, beginning Nov. 5, 2017, subject to requisite governmental approvals.

High-resolution photos from Ft. Lauderdale and Cincinnati are available on Southwest’s online newsroom at swamedia.com.

More Flights from California

Today also marked the beginning of new service linking California to more destinations across the United States. The carrier launched new service between San Francisco and Portland, Ore.; San Jose, Calif. and Reno; San Diego and Boise; and San Diego and Salt Lake City. Additionally, Southwest began operating seasonal service to New York (via Newark) from Oakland and San Diego, and seasonal service between San Diego and Spokane and Indianapolis.

Milestones for Denver and Nashville

Southwest continues its commitment to Denver and Nashville, with milestone numbers of flight departures for each market. In Denver, the carrier reached 200 departures a day. With today’s schedule, Southwest began operating daily service between Denver and Charleston, S.C., weekend service between Denver and Pensacola, Fla., seasonal service between Denver and Norfolk, Va., and is complementing its Saturday service between Denver and Belize with a new Sunday flight.

In Nashville, Southwest reached 100 departures a day as it began operating new daily service between Nashville and Minneapolis/St. Paul and seasonal service between Nashville and Seattle.

To book your seat on any of these new flights visit southwest.com.                        

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.

In its 46th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 54,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually.  Southwest proudly operates a network of 101 destinations in the United States and nine additional countries with more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season. Service to Turks and Caicos is expected to begin Nov. 5, 2017, subject to requisite government approvals.

Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest created Transfarency®, a philosophy which treats Customers honestly and fairly, and in which low fares actually stay low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free®  to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. The airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  A new logo, aircraft livery, interior design featuring a new seat and Flight Attendant galley, Employee-designed uniforms, and an updated airport experience all showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees who connect Customers with what’s important in their lives.

From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as “The Southwest Effect,” a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets.  With 44 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier’s performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2016 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com.

Book Southwest Airlines’ low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.

 

South Carolina 7th Worst State for Millennials

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Money Rates has ranked the best and worst states for millenials in their new 2017 study.  Based on the following eight factors: job market for young adults, young adult proportion of population, college tuition affordability, residential rental availability, residential rental affordability, access to high-speed internet, concentration of bars relative to the young adult population and concentration of fitness facilities to the young adult population.

Based on the current results, South Carolina is the 7th worst state for millennials to live in the United States.

Worst States for Millennials 2017

While just about every state has both strengths and weaknesses, the following states seemed to have the most negatives as places for young adults to live:

1. Arizona

 Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 1. Arizona

This state is known more as a retirement destination than as a hot spot for young people, and a look at where Arizona ranked in some categories of interest to millennials helps explain why. Arizona was among the 10 worst states for access to high-speed broadband and for the concentration of fitness facilities relative to the young adult population. In fact, Arizona ranked below-median in seven of the eight categories used in this study.

2. New Hampshire (tie)

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 2. New Hampshire

This is an especially bad choice if you are looking to attend college and money is an issue: at $15,650, the annual cost of in-state tuition at a four-year public school is the highest in the nation, more than 60 percent higher than in the typical state. New Hampshire is also not a great place to go for night life, with the second-lowest concentration of bars relative to the size of its young adult population. New Hampshire also ranked in the bottom 10 for both access to high-speed broadband and rental availability.

However, New Hampshire does have one very important redeeming feature for young adults looking for work: The unemployment rate for people aged 20 to 24 is just 4.2 percent, the lowest in the nation.

2. Virginia (tie)

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 3. Virginia

Surprisingly, given its proximity to Washington D.C., Virginia is not a great place for night life, with the nation’s lowest concentration of bars relative to its number of young people. To put this in perspective, according to Census figures, Virginia has fewer bars than tiny Rhode Island, despite having about eight times as many young adults. Another key drawback for people just starting out is that it is a fairly expensive place to live. Both tuition and rents are among the 10 most expensive in the nation.

4. Washington

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 4. Washington

Since young people tend to rent rather than own their homes, a crucial knock on Washington is that it can be a tough place to find a place to rent. The rental vacancy rate is the third-lowest in the nation. Besides that, Washington ranked better than average in only one category, which was the concentration of fitness facilities relative to the size of the young adult population.

5. Tennessee

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 5. Tennessee

Whether you fall on the party-animal or the health-nut end of the personal life style spectrum, Tennessee is not a particularly welcoming state. Relative to the size of its young adult population, Tennessee ranked 44th for concentration of bars, and 41st for concentration of fitness facilities. It is a relatively easy place for renters to find a place to live, as it ranked better than average for both availability and affordability of rental properties.

6. Oregon

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 6. Oregon

Like neighboring Washington, Oregon suffers from a relative scarcity of rental properties, ranking 45th in that category. It was generally ranked below average across the board, except that it does cater to young people with relatively high concentrations of bars and fitness facilities.

7. South Carolina

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 7. South Carolina

Clearly, young people are not especially attracted to this state because its percentage of 20- to-24-year-olds ranks in the bottom five nationally. One turn-off may be the expense of college in South Carolina, with an average in-state tuition cost for a four-year public school that is among the 10 most expensive in the country.

8. New Jersey

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 8. New Jersey

Expense is a big drawback to New Jersey for young adults on a tight budget. Tuition and rental costs are both among the five most expensive in the U.S. Those high costs are even tougher to afford in a weak job market, and New Jersey suffers from one of the 10 highest rates of young adult unemployment.

9. Kentucky

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 9. Kentucky

This state ranked below average on five of eight criteria, with the most prominent example being a bottom-five ranking for concentration of fitness facilities. On the plus side, rents are fourth cheapest of all the states.

10. California

Worst States for Millennials 2017 - 10. California

Of course, California attracts a lot of young people, but this study is a reminder that you should kick the tires before you choose a place to live. Specifically, make sure you can line up a place to live before you commit because California has the lowest availability of rental property, and the third highest rental costs.

Of course, not all millennials think and act the same way. The above descriptions of strengths of weaknesses of different states offer some suggestions for what young people might want to look at when choosing where to move, but each person will prioritize and judge those factors differently.

Methodology

Methodology

To get a handle on some of the factors that may be driving decisions about where millennials choose to live, MoneyRates.com looked at the following eight factors:

  • Job market for young adults (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
  • Young adult proportion of population (U.S. Census Bureau data)
  • College tuition affordability (Four-year in-state cost data from the College Board)
  • Residential rental availability (U.S. Census Bureau data)
  • Residential rental affordability (U.S. Census Bureau data)
  • Access to high-speed broadband internet (Federal government’s National Broadband Map)
  • Concentration of bars relative to the young adult population (U.S. Census Bureau data)
  • Concentration of fitness facilities relative to the young adult population (International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association)

All 50 states plus the District of Columbia were ranked on each of the above criteria, and then average rankings across all eight categories were calculated.

Based on the results, the following are the 10 Best and Worst States for Millennials in 2017:

Full Ranking of Best States for Millennials 2017

Didn’t see your home state in the best or worst lists? Look below for the full ranking of all 50 states and Washington D.C. and see where you stand:

Overall Rank State
1 North Dakota
2 South Dakota
3 Nebraska
4 Louisiana
5 Wyoming
6 Iowa
7 Kansas
7 Wisconsin
9 Montana
10 Indiana
11 Idaho
12 Florida
13 Nevada
14 Mississippi
15 Texas
16 District of Columbia
17 Arkansas
17 Minnesota
19 Delaware
19 Utah
21 Missouri
22 Michigan
23 Alabama
23 Maryland
25 Oklahoma
26 Ohio
26 Pennsylvania
28 Massachusetts
29 Alaska
30 Connecticut
31 New Mexico
31 New York
31 Rhode Island
34 Illinois
35 Colorado
36 West Virginia
37 Hawaii
38 Georgia
39 North Carolina
40 Vermont
41 Maine
42 California
43 Kentucky
44 New Jersey
45 South Carolina
46 Oregon
47 Tennessee
48 Washington
49 New Hampshire
49 Virginia
51 Arizona

Charles Towne Landing is Looking for Volunteers – Be with nature and do good

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We need you! We are always looking for volunteer involvement. Below are some ways to get involved.

Animal Forest: We collect food and supplies for the Animal Forest at every Race the Landing event. We are also always looking for volunteers to help prepare food for the animals, or assist in basic tasks.

Guided Tours: Friends and volunteers provide information and transportation on golf carts for park visitors.
Race the Landing: Volunteers are needed to help with publicity, set up for the event, serve food and drinks, monitor the race course, and hand out water along the way.

Archeological Digs: Ready to get your hands dirty? We connect volunteers interested in working on the digs to park staff. The Friends also sponsor talks from archeologists in Founders Hall. See our calendar for more information.

Beautification: We work with Garden Club of Charleston to connect volunteers eager to beautify the gardens around the Legare-Waring House.

Please complete registration form

Sister Hazel Returns to the Lowountry: Our Interview with Founding Member Andrew Copeland

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Photo Courtesy: Kaylor Girl Promotions

By Mark A. Leon

There is a very human side of music built on the relationship between musician and fan. When the symmetry of musical appreciation, art, emotion and genuine admiration come together you have the 23-year career of one of the most respected Southern bands of the modern musical genre, Sister Hazel. From the most recognizable song nationally with “All for You” to pioneering annual rock cruises, Sister Hazel continues to reinvent themselves with the sole purpose of giving back to the fans.

This weekend, The Windjammer will be hosting Sister Hazel as they perform three shows and a series of special VIP events for the loyal Hazelnuts and Lowcountry fans performing songs from an over two-decade musical library.

Sister Hazel holds a very close personal relationship with Charleston. Playing gigs at the Music Farm and The Windjammer early in their career and harnessing brotherly relationships with Darius and the Hootie boys, NeedtoBreathe and Edwin McCain, Drew describes the Lowcountry as a second home. “Bobby Ross has always been very kind to us.” (The Windjammer). We have known Hootie from back in the early 90’s. We all came up in the same circles. Those guys are like brothers. We have stayed close for 20 plus years. There was never any competition between us. The memories we have built coming through Charleston and the way the fans in the Carolinas treat us has made this a second home for us. It is very familiar to us. We are treated like family.”

I had a chance to sit down with founding member Andrew “Drew” Copeland about their career, importance of the fans and their upcoming weekend in Charleston.

CD: 23 Years Together: What have you learned from one another about life, music, family and fan loyalty?

AC: I’ll tell ya. The lessons from being in a band with four other guys for this long and the tools you gain are immeasurable. There is no hierarchy. We all respect each other. We all have an equal say. Over time, we have had the ability to prioritize things and determine what is important in life. If someone is passionate about something, we take it seriously. This has affected how we make business and life decisions over the 23 years together. No one can appreciate all you have been through more than the four guys you have spent so many years with. We have had a crazy life. In fact, Ken and I have been performing together for 26 years now. We have been co-dependent on each other. There is no closer definition of brotherhood.

CD: Dr. Hazel K. Williams, the woman behind your namesake passed away last year at age 91. What did she mean to you all you.

Photo Courtesy: Kaylor Girl Promotions


AC: She was a female minister who dedicated her life to the ministries that reached out to the less fortunate. She reached out to all that needed help regardless of race, religion or background. Ken spoke at her funeral and over the years we always donated money to her causes. She was special and selfless.

When the band formed, we were looking for a name. Ken felt Hazel represented acceptance of all and that is what he wanted the music to be. Ken wanted to create songs that all music fans could relate to and appreciate and she was the embodiment of that.

When she returned from missionary work in Belize and Haiti, she saw our name on billboards in Gainesville and reached out to us. After speaking to us, she said, if you accept all and don’t speak ill of anyone, I am happy to let you use my name for the band. To this day, it has stuck.

CD: Tell me more about the Rock Cruises from concept to reality and what do you want the fans to take away from the experience?

AC: Way back, about 18 years ago, we wanted to find a way to thank our fans for being so supportive. We wanted to give them special shows and spent time with them and what better way than a cruise with live music and interaction. In our first year, we reserved only 200 cabins, not even the whole boat. It went so well, we chartered the entire ship the next year. For the first few years, I was even writing checks after we docked to cover some of the costs. Our former manager, Andrew Levine spearheaded these cruises and since then, Sixth Man Productions, led by Andrew has coordinated similar cruises for Zach Brown, Kid Rock and Kiss.

Over the years, we have played with Collective Soul, Gavin Rossdale, Tonic and NeedtoBreathe to name just a few. In a way, we pioneered a genre of music and fan appreciation.

CD: I understand you perform barefoot. Is that a lifestyle choice or just a little bit about your attitude about life?

AC:  I think it is both. I grew up in Florida. I was one of many kids that loved walking around barefoot. When Ken and I started out playing together we played beach clubs and patio bars. We would show up in shorts, t-shirts and flip flops. We kicked off our flip flops and played. When the band started to take off with more success, I just kept doing it. It felt good and it was a bit of a superstition.

CD: How was it superstitious?

AC: In 1993 we formed the band, in 1996, we signed with our first major label and then after that, I felt like things couldn’t change.

CD: Hazelnuts: Tell me more about the origins of this following? (For those that do not know, the Hazelnuts are the true, unconditional, devoted fan base of Sister Hazel. Much like the “Parrotheads” and “Deadheads”, these fans are dedicated to the love of the music and the band)

AC: They are self-dubbed fans. Super loyal fans. They have come together for the love of music. They are passionate about the band and all music. For that we are indebted. These fans love music and everything about it.

CD: I have some personal favorites including “Champagne High” and “Right One for Me”. What are Andrew’s top 5 Sister Hazel songs?

AC: Those can vary from night to night depending on the mood, but I will always be thankful for “All for You.” I have nothing but love for the song and all that it has given us over the years. It is still such an important part of who we are and what we have become.

CD: Being born and bred in the area that gave us Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, what has contributed to your longevity and the relationship you have built with your fans?

AC:  I think it is that we are appreciative. We don’t feel entitled. We have been surrounded by good people in our lives that has kept us grounded. We take a lot of pride in the accessibility of our fans being able to connect to us and the music.

CD: Has the induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame crossed your minds now that you are 2 years away from eligibility?

AC:  No, we haven’t thought about it, but that would be the most incredible thing to ever happen to us. That is mind numbing to even think about. I have never considered it as an option for us, but it would be remarkable if it did.

What started as two guys playing guitar and singing a few riffs of The Eagles during a 1991 tailgate party before a Florida Tennessee Football game have become a 26-year journey filled with heart, dedication and musical poetry. Exposing the vulnerability of relationships and love and celebrating life has been the cornerstone of a career that is showing no signs of slowing down.

“And for the million hours that we were
Well I’ll smile and remember it all
Then I’ll turn and go
While your story’s completed mine is a long way from done.”Champagne High

We look forward to the next million hours together.

As you watch Ken, Andrew, Ryan, Jett and Mark perform some of their classic hits and new songs, you will see a level of brotherhood you rarely find in life and that bond has extended to fans around the world.

Welcome back to Charleston.

Sister Hazel – The Windjammer Ticket Information

Photo Courtesy: Kaylor Girl Promotions

Charleston, SC Is Officially The Largest City in South Carolina: 4 of top 7 in Lowcountry

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The new census data reveals that Charleston now has 76 more people than Columbia making them the largest city in South Carolina.  Our area has 4 cities in the top 7:  Charleston #1, North Charleston #3, Mount Pleasant #4 and Summerville #7.

South Carolina’s largest cities

1. Charleston – 134,385

2. Columbia – 134,309

3. North Charleston – 109,298

4. Mount Pleasant – 84,170

5. Rock Hill – 72,937

6. Greenville – 67,453

7. Summerville – 49,323

8. Goose Creek – 42,039

9. Sumter – 40,723

10. Hilton Head – 40,500

Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2016 population estimates

Also, Greenville is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States between 2015 and 2016.

Helping a Hero has Awarded Over 100 Homes in 22 States – Read the Touching Story of MSgt Rhyner from Raleigh, NC

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Helping A Hero Has Awarded Over 100 Homes In 22 States

RALEIGH, N.C. (May 30, 2017) – Helping A Hero, a 501(c)(3) non-profit non-partisan organization, presented a specially adapted home to wounded hero MSgt Zac Rhyner. A decorated veteran, MSgt Rhyner, USAF has been presented: three Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, and the Air Force Cross as only the 192nd airman in the history of America to receive this rare and coveted award. This award is the highest honor the Air Force bestows upon an airman, given to those who show exemplary valor and second only to the Medal of Honor. After receiving this honor, MSgt Rhyner deployed for the sixth time to Afghanistan where he was further wounded and forced to retire due to a severe leg injury. He now only has 5% use of his leg and hip. MSgt Rhyner and his caretaker and wife, Jillian, will enjoy this new home with their two sons.

Having awarded over 100 homes in 22 states for veterans wounded in the war on terror, Helping A Hero designed a beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath home in a Holly Springs subdivision with special adaptations to make MSgt Rhyner’s day to day life easier. The Today Show covered the emotional story and aired it celebration of Memorial Day, Monday, May 29. Watch it here: LINK.

Learn more about the Helping A Hero Wounded Hero Home Program at HelpingAHero.org. To make a difference in lives of heroes like MSgt Zac Rhyner, visit HelpingAHero.org/Donate. Follow us on Twitter @HelpingAHero and “Like” us on Facebook, facebook.com/HelpingAHero. Spread the positive word using the hashtag #EmpowerHeroes.

ABOUT HELPING A HERO:

Founded in 2006, Helping A Hero provides support for military personnel severely injured in the war on terror by providing specially adapted homes for qualifying service members through partnerships made with the builders, developers, communities, and the wounded warriors. Helping A Hero strives to engage the community in providing services and resources for our wounded heroes and their families. Additionally, the nonprofit organization provides additional support programs such as marriage retreats, caregiver retreats, recreational activities, emotional support, and financial support.

Through the generosity of patriots across the nation, Helping A Hero has awarded over 100 homes in 22 states since 2006. These adapted homes promote a successful transition from military to civilian life and allow wounded veterans to regain some of their lost independence. Helping A Hero adapted homes are not free. The homes are typically valued around $250,000 and the veterans have a minimum $50,000 mortgage. In addition, the veteran commits to reside in the home for at least 10 years as his/her primary residence. More information on Helping A Hero can be found at www.helpingahero.org.

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@HelpingaHero awards specially adapted home to wounded hero. Watch @TODAYshow j.mp/HAH_Rhyner