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Charleston, South Carolina Based Blaze Capital Partners Acquires 203-Unit Apartment Community in Orlando, FL

September 10, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Charleston-based rental housing investment firm grows its Orlando footprint with second acquisition in the market this year

CHARLESTON, S.C./PRNewswire/ — Blaze Capital Partners (“Blaze”) today announced the acquisition of Integra Lakes, a 203-unit value-add apartment community in Casselberry, Florida, located fifteen minutes northeast of downtown Orlando. Following the acquisition, Blaze plans to invest additional capital as part of its strategic renovation plan aimed at improving the community’s interior units and common areas.

“In the midst of a challenging transaction environment, Blaze has managed to stay active and find attractive opportunities that align with our long-term goals of making calculated housing bets that we believe offer superior risk-adjusted returns,” said Chris Riley, co-founder and managing partner of Blaze. “The acquisition of Integra Lakes is a prime example of our team being dynamic and adapting to this difficult capital markets environment.”

Blaze Capital Partners Acquires 203-Unit Apartment Community in Orlando, FLTweet this

Integra Lakes consists of four, 3- and 4-story buildings surrounding a series of ponds and walking trails. The community features studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 532 square feet to 1,298 square feet. The 2017-built community features various amenities for residents such as a saltwater swimming pool, outdoor cabana area with a fire pit, poolside gas grilling stations and TVs. The units themselves include stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, full sized washers and dryers, and vinyl plank flooring in select areas.

Casselberry is a high-growth suburb of Orlando attracting both young professionals and growing families due to its proximity to major employment hubs, access to strong schools, and its relative affordability. Integra Lakes is located just off Highway 17 providing transportation ease to various major employers such as Advent Health and Orlando International Airport in addition to the office markets in Maitland, Winter Park, and downtown Orlando. The community is located within the sought-after Seminole County School District and offers residents a variety of high-end restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and daily amenities.

“We continue to see outsized rental demand for quality apartment communities throughout the Orlando market, and Casselberry has emerged as a thriving submarket having drafted off of the growth in Maitland and other adjacent pockets,” said Eddy O’Brien, co-founder and managing partner of Blaze. “We look forward to executing on our improvement plan and delivering an exceptional housing experience to our residents.”

Blaze has continued to opportunistically grow its Sunbelt rental housing portfolio throughout 2023 with a selective, long-term approach amidst the backdrop of a challenging capital market landscape. This transaction marks Blaze’s second acquisition in Orlando this year having recently closed on The Pointe at Siena Ridge, an active adult community in the Davenport submarket of Metro Orlando. Blaze will continue to selectively deploy capital throughout the balance of the year across its various rental housing segments.

About Blaze Capital Partners

Blaze Capital Partners is a rental housing investment and development firm driven by a simple but unusual mission: Creating homes for how people live and how they want to live. With a human-first approach fueled by demographic and psychographic research, Blaze owns and operates exceptional communities in high-growth markets throughout the Sun Belt. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Blaze offers a full suite of investment services, ranging from research and acquisitions to development and asset management. With a current portfolio across the Southeast, Blaze has transacted on over $2 billion in gross asset value since 2016, with an active investment pipeline of acquisition and development opportunities across the rental housing spectrum. To learn more about Blaze, visit www.blazecapitalpartners.com.

Lowcountry

Ltd. Champions Ridge, Charleston, SC based Greystar’s Latest Ltd. Branded Community, Brings Revolutionary New Essential Housing to Orlando

September 10, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

DAVENPORT, Florida/PRNewswire/ — Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC (“Greystar”), “), a global leader in the investment, development, and management of real estate, including rental housing, logistics, and life sciences, is pleased to announce its second Ltd.-branded apartment community, Ltd. Champions Ridge, in Davenport, Florida, is now welcoming move-ins. The Ltd. brand exclusively focuses on Greystar’s essential housing product, delivering more attainable housing opportunities for key populations affected by the lack of rental options in the Orlando metro area and across the country as more Ltd. communities come online.

Ltd. Champions Ridge is Greystar’s second Ltd.-branded community. Ltd. by Greystar is Greystar’s dedicated brand focused on essential housing that offers cost certainty for residents. Ltd.-branded communities will limit future rent increases, not raising rents by more than the greater of the CPI or 3%. An Ltd. community combines the opportunity to live in a high-quality, professionally managed Greystar apartment with the comfort of cost certainty, emphasizing value for our residents.

“Ltd. Champions Ridge addresses the incredible need for attainable housing both in the Orlando area and throughout the United States,” Parker LeCorgne, Director of Development at Greystar, said. “We are excited to bring the Ltd. brand and the new rental experience here to Davenport by providing much-needed housing supply that offers an attainable, high-quality experience for renters. We are proud to be able to do this for the benefit of our community, including essential workers such as teachers, nurses, and first responders. So far, the response has been tremendous. Ltd. Champions Ridge was 60 percent pre-leased before final walkthroughs and all available apartments have been rented.”

The apartment community has one-, two- and three-bedroom floorplans that range from 798 sq. ft. to 1,245 sq. ft. While the rents will be lower than typical multifamily housing in the area as a result of efficiencies in construction, technology, and the operating model, Ltd. Champions Ridge boasts similar quality construction, amenities, and experience of a traditional Greystar community.

Ltd. Champions Ridge, like all Ltd.-branded communities, will have standard amenities appropriate for their location, including community pools and gyms, among other options. Additionally, cutting-edge technology packages in multi-family will be included in each Ltd. community and apartment, with property-wide high-speed internet, smart locks, and resident apps that streamline everything from maintenance requests to guest access. This package of amenities and innovative technology helps to set Ltd. communities apart from most of the existing attainable supply in the United States.

“Our Ltd. brand is Greystar’s solution to the lack of housing supply for the middle of the market,” said Scott Berka, Senior Managing Director, Brand and Customer Experience at Greystar. “Champions Ridge is just the latest example of our commitment to delivering rental housing that combines the opportunity to live in a professionally managed Greystar community with the promise of limited future rent increases while living in an Ltd.-branded property.”

For more information on Ltd. Champions Ridge, please visit www.ltdchampionsridge.com

About Ltd. by Greystar
Ltd. by Greystar is Greystar’s dedicated brand focused on essential housing that offers cost certainty for residents. Ltd.-branded communities will limit future rent increases, not raising rents by more than the greater of the CPI or 3%. An Ltd. community combines the opportunity to live in a high-quality, professionally managed Greystar apartment with the comfort of cost certainty, emphasizing value for our residents. To learn more, visit ltd.greystar.com

About Greystar
Greystar is a leading, fully integrated global real estate company offering expertise in property management, investment management, development, and construction services in institutional-quality rental housing, logistics, and life sciences sectors. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Greystar manages and operates more than $275 billion of real estate in 238 markets globally with offices throughout North America, Europe, South America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Greystar is the largest operator of apartments in the United States, manages more than 803,000 units/beds globally, and has a robust institutional investment management platform comprised of more than $74 billion of assets under management, including nearly $32 billion of development assets. Greystar was founded by Bob Faith in 1993 to become a provider of world-class service in the rental residential real estate business. To learn more, visit www.greystar.com.

SOURCE Greystar

Lowcountry

LashKind Launches Innovative Franchise Opportunity in the U.S., Celebrates First Signed Agreement in Mount Pleasant, SC

September 9, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Emerging Beauty Franchise Fills Niche in $571B Industry with Unveiling of an Aggressive Franchise Development Strategy

TORONTO , June 22, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — LashKind, an innovative brow and lash franchise concept, announces the launch of its franchise opportunity in markets across the country. The emerging franchise is grounded in the success of Canadian-based MYNC Beauty Inc., which was acquired by the original blow dry bar franchise Blo Blow Dry Bar in October 2022. Now, the category disrupter is bringing LashKind to the masses.

Primed to become a leader in its space and within franchising, LashKind is designed to stand out in an industry that is experiencing rapid growth. Tapping into the proven business model of Blo Blow Dry Bar that spans more than 100 locations with 40 more in various stages of development, the model for LashKind has been engineered to set franchisees up for success with a suite of turnkey support.

“We’re excited to offer experienced and aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to join our family to bring the LashKind experience to beauty and lash lovers everywhere,” said Vanessa Yakobson, CEO of Blo Blow Dry Bar and LashKind. “With Blo’s success in the beauty and wellness space, our experienced leadership team, and a proven franchise system, LashKind is ready to roll out with strength across the U.S. We’ve already seen vast interest from our existing Blo franchisees which serves as a testament to their confidence in LashKind.”

With the beauty industry valued at more than $571B and the lash industry projected to double its $1.36B value over the next decade, it is an opportune time to join LashKind. An added asset for franchisees, LashKind will have multiple revenue streams with a number of services including: lash extensions, lash lifts; lash tints; brow and full-face waxing; brow and full-face threading; brow lamination; and brow tints. There will also be retail products to help extend the life of each service, a robust membership program to drive predictable, recurring revenue, and gift cards.

The emerging brand has already signed its first franchise agreement, putting it on a positive trajectory to make its mark in the U.S. Making history is Lynn Maggio-Fleer, a serial entrepreneur, who will bring the nation’s first LashKind location to Mount Pleasant, SC. With a background in marketing and entrepreneurship, Maggio-Fleer is also an existing franchisee with Blo Blow Dry Bar, owning one location in Mount Pleasant. Maggio-Fleer’s LashKind will be in Patriots Plaza at 889 Houston Northcutt Blvd., just a few doors down from her Blo Blow Dry Bar.

Maggio-Fleer boasts more than 20 years of experience as a business owner, and several specifically within the beauty industry. She previously owned a blow dry bar in Alabama before joining the Blo system as well as various startups, ranging from a cosmetic line to local art studios. While Maggio-Fleer’s experience will be an asset to her location, LashKind provides the resources and support for all franchisees to fuel their own path to success.

“It’s an honor to be the first LashKind franchisee and I’m proud the leadership team trusts me to open the first location,” added Maggio-Fleer. “Having such a raw passion for the beauty industry, I couldn’t be more excited to grow our portfolio. There is an immense synergy between Blo and LashKind – from the clientele to staff to overall services. I have been so happy with the support system and business model of Blo, and we’re confident they have given us the blueprint to have repeated success with LashKind.”

LashKind is a collective of beauty lovers – who also know that beauty means business. Its mission is to make guests look and feel beautiful by providing fun and fabulous bar environments, expertly delivered services and high-quality products, while helping ensure their natural lashes and brows remain healthy.

LashKind is currently seeking aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs to stake their claim in this exploding sector. For more information about the franchise opportunity, visit lashkindfranchise.com/contact-us.

About LashKind

LashKind is an innovative brow and lash franchise concept, grounded in the success of Canadian-based MYNC Beauty Inc. (founded in 2011) and brought to you by the team behind the category disruptor, Blo Blow Dry Bar. With a proven business model in a booming industry, LashKind is designed to stand out and set franchisees up for success. As a collective of beauty lovers, LashKind’s mission is to make guests look and feel beautiful by providing fun and fabulous bar environments, expertly-delivered services and high-quality products, while helping ensure guests’ natural lashes and brows remain healthy. To learn more, visit lashkindfranchise.com.

About Blo Blow Dry Bar

Blo Blow Dry Bar is North America’s original blow dry bar and the world’s largest blow dry bar franchise. The company transformed beauty norms and reinvented the salon industry when it launched the “no cuts, no color” concept: only blow outs. Since opening its first location in Canada in 2007, Blo has grown to over 140 locations across the U.S. and Canada and continues to expand rapidly. The brand has also evolved over time, adding makeup services, a membership program, and quality retail products to its bars. With a mission to enhance the lives of those in the community through the power of flawless blow outs and beauty services, Blo Blow Dry Bar offers perfectly styled hair and exceptional customer experiences seven days a week. For more information visit www.blomedry.com.

Lowcountry

Congressional Medal of Honor Society Welcomes Newest Member – Congratulations Captain Larry L. Taylor

September 9, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C., Sept. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — We, the 65 living Medal of Honor recipients, proudly welcome U.S. Army Captain Larry Taylor as the newest member of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

The awarding of the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary valor during the Vietnam War is a testament to Captain Taylor risking his own life as a Cobra helicopter pilot and rescuing a patrol team while under heavy enemy fire. His actions represent the highest ideals of our nation.

His actions represent the highest ideals of our nation.Tweet this

Medal of Honor Recipient Larry Taylor’s unwavering courage, selflessness, and dedication to duty serve as an inspiration to all Americans. This recognition strengthens our collective commitment to upholding the values of our nation that we promote as a Society and ensure that the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women are never forgotten. We extend our deepest gratitude to him for his exceptional service and look forward to his joining our ranks.

About the Congressional Medal of Honor Society

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor and its Recipients, inspiring Americans, and supporting the Recipients as they connect with communities across the country.

Chartered by Congress in 1958, its membership consists exclusively of those individuals who have received the Medal of Honor. There are 66 living Recipients.

Learn more about the Medal of Honor and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s initiatives at cmohs.org.

CONTACT:
Kathleen Blomquist
kblomquist@cmohs.org

SOURCE Congressional Medal of Honor Society

Lowcountry

USAA Unveils Top 10 States with Most & Least Distracted Drivers – Where did South Carolina rank?

September 9, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

With more drivers on the road, distracted driving remains a leading cause of accidents and fatalities for Americans.

SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — USAA has released data on distracted driving trends in the United States during the first half of 2023. The data, compiled from USAA’s SafePilot^® telematics app, offers valuable insights into the states where drivers are most and least prone to distractions behind the wheel. The data comes at a time when more drivers have returned to the roads as more Americans are working from offices.

Through the first half of the year, USAA has seen an 18% increase in miles driven over the same period in 2022, along with a 10% increase in distracted driving behaviors, providing an opportunity to raise awareness on the importance of avoiding distractions on the roads as it remains a leading cause of accidents and fatalities for Americans. According to the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021, which is a 13% increase over pre-pandemic figures from 2019. Distracted driving is particularly dangerous because it diverts a driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Common distractions include texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems.

“At USAA, we are committed to helping create safer roads for everyone,” says Randy Termeer, USAA President of Property & Casualty. “By staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions, we can protect lives, reduce accidents, and make our communities safer for all.”

USAA has compiled data highlighting the top 10 states with the most and least distracted drivers based on their smartphone distraction rates (percentage of driving time that was distracted).

Top 10 States with the Most Distracted Drivers (Jan. – June 2023)
These states exhibited the highest levels of distracted driving incidents, including texting, phone calls, and other smartphone distractions that divert drivers’ attention from the road.

State	Distraction Rate
1.	Mississippi	17.8 %
2.	Louisiana	16.8 %
3.	South Carolina	16.5 %
4.	Alabama	16.2 %
5.	North Carolina	15.8 %
6.	Georgia	15.5 %
	*District of Columbia	14.9 %
7.	Arkansas	14.7 %
8.	Tennessee	14.5 %
9.	Texas	14.0 %
10.	Kentucky	13.8 %

Top 10 States with the Least Distracted Drivers (Jan. – June 2023)
These states demonstrated a commitment to safe driving practices, with fewer incidents of smartphone distractions compared to the national average of 12.1%.

State	Distraction Rate
1.	Vermont	6.8 %
2.	Oregon	8.0 %
3.	Minnesota	9.1 %
4.	New Hampshire	9.5 %
5.	Maine	9.6 %
6.	Washington	10.1 %
7.	Montana	10.2 %
8.	Colorado	10.3 %
9.	Nevada	10.3 %
10.	Wyoming	10.3 %

USAA encourages all drivers, regardless of their state’s ranking, to prioritize safety behind the wheel. By taking simple precautions, we can collectively make the roads safer for everyone.

Here are 6 tips to help avoid distracted driving:

Put Your Phone Away: Silence or switch your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode and store it out of reach, such as in the glove compartment or the back seat.
Plan Ahead: Set your GPS, adjust your music, and settle any potential distractions before you start driving.
Avoid Multitasking: Focus solely on driving. Avoid eating, grooming, or any other activities that take your attention away from the road.
Pull Over if Necessary: If you must address something urgent, like a text message or an important call, find a safe place to pull over before doing so.
Inform Passengers: Ask passengers to help with navigation or other tasks that may distract you while driving.
Use Telematics Apps: There are several apps available that give feedback on driving habits such as speeding, harsh braking and hand-held phone use. Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who use telematics apps.

USAA remains dedicated to promoting safe driving habits and will continue to raise awareness about the importance of distraction-free driving.

Driving data from SafePilot^®, USAA’s behavior-based insurance app, leverages telematics technology to provide feedback on driving behaviors. SafePilot rewards safe driving with premium discounts; members who enroll receive up to a 10% discount for signing-up and continued policy discounts up to 30% for exhibiting safe driving behaviors. By incentivizing safe driving practices, SafePilot aims to reduce accidents, improve road safety and reward participants with discounts on their insurance.

“SafePilot goes beyond traditional insurance offerings by empowering individuals to take control of their insurance costs while promoting a culture of safe driving,” adds Termeer. “The program encourages members to be more mindful of their driving habits and make positive changes. Ultimately, it’s part of USAA’s broader commitment to fostering responsible driving behaviors and creating safer roadways.”

SafePilot is currently available in 47 states plus Washington D.C. For more information, visit usaa.com/SafePilot.

About USAA

Founded in 1922 by a group of military officers, USAA is among the leading providers of insurance, banking, and investment and retirement solutions to more than 13 million members of the U.S. military, veterans who have honorably served and their families. Headquartered in San Antonio, USAA has offices in eight U.S. cities and three overseas locations and employs more than 37,000 people worldwide. Each year, the company contributes to national and local nonprofits in support of military families and communities where employees live and work. For more information about USAA, follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@USAA), or visit usaa.com.

Contact: USAA Media Relations
External_communications@usaa.com
210-498-0940

SOURCE USAA

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Lowcountry

Pick Up Your Parks” Initiative Combats Litter in Lowcountry Local Parks and Greenspaces with Free Clean up Kits

September 9, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

CHARLESTON, SC – The Charleston Parks Conservancy, alongside South Carolina Aquarium and Keep Charleston Beautiful, introduces a proactive initiative to combat litter in local parks and green spaces. The “Pick Up Your Parks” Clean up Kits campaign, powered by a PalmettoPride grant, offers households up to two complimentary kits featuring essential tools for cleaning up litter. Residents can use these kits individually to clean City of Charleston parks or join organized efforts, like the September 24 “Pick Up Your Parks” litter sweep of the West Ashley Bikeway led by the Parks Conservancy and Keep Charleston Beautiful. The Parks Conservancy will partner with Lowcountry Land Trust for a litter sweep at Angel Oak Park on October 2. Register for a free kit and to participate in a litter sweep at charlestonparksconservancy.org/pickupyourparks.

“This campaign marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to fostering a healthier environment, safeguarding habitats, and preserving wildlife,” said Devon Andrews, Director of Partnerships and Engagement at Charleston Parks Conservancy. “The fight against litter underscores the shared responsibility each resident, business owner, and visitor bears in nurturing our community’s parks and green spaces. It symbolizes the collective pride we hold for our community and the legacy we endeavor to pass on to future generations.”

The Charleston Parks Conservancy, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing and preserving 25 of Charleston’s parks and green spaces, has been proactively addressing the litter challenge. Collaborating with the S.C. Aquarium, Keep Charleston Beautiful, and other organizations in 2022, the Conservancy engaged 490 dedicated volunteers in a series of litter sweeps, resulting in the removal of over 1,800 lbs. of debris from parks, greenspaces, and marsh areas.

“While litter prevention is PalmettoPride’s primary objective, litter pickups are still vital to keeping South Carolina beautiful. Volunteers are crucial to our mission of achieving a litter-free South Carolina,” said Sarah Lyles, Executive Director at PalmettoPride. “Our grant programs help our mission reach every corner of the state by providing financial and logistical support to local stakeholders and volunteers.”

Residents are encouraged to utilize the clean up kits which include a reusable tote, litter grabber, trash bags, safety vest, gloves, and user-friendly reporting instructions, to embark on individual or organized clean up missions within the City of Charleston parks. The Charleston Parks Conservancy, in conjunction with its partners, invites the community to join its “Pick Up Your Parks” events at West Ashley Bikeway on September 24 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and on October 2 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Angel Oak Park on Johns Island.

To amplify the impact of this initiative, the Conservancy will collate litter reports from participants and document the data in the South Carolina Aquarium’s Litter Journal—a vital resource for developing innovative solutions to mitigate litter. Additional “Pick Up Your Parks” litter sweeps are planned in the coming months. Learn more and register for a complimentary “Pick Up Your Parks” clean up kit and litter sweeps.

Photo credit: Justin Falk Photography

About the Charleston Parks Conservancy
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and create stunning public places and a strong community. For more than 13 years, the Conservancy — through public-private partnerships — has had a hand in renovating and beautifying more than 20 parks in the City of Charleston. In 2020, renovations were completed at Moultrie Playground and St. Julian Devine Community Center & Park. Other notable projects include the complete renovation of Colonial Lake, the renovation of the Rose Pavilion at Hampton Park, Magnolia Park and Community Garden, and Medway Park and Community Garden. For more information, visit www.charlestonparksconservancy.org, Instagram: @charlestonparks, and Facebook / YouTube: @CharlestonParksConservancy.

About Keep Charleston Beautiful
Since 1977, Keep Charleston Beautiful has been dedicated to preserving the area’s beauty and enhancing public cleanliness. Through initiatives centered around litter clean up, beautification, and education, they foster a sense of community pride reflected in the cleanliness of Charleston. By uniting residents, businesses, and government, they’ve formed effective outreach programs addressing litter, sustainability, and beautification. Their school-based efforts instill litter-free habits, environmental consciousness, and youth volunteerism. From combatting pet waste and cigarette litter to promoting recycling and zero-waste events, Keep Charleston Beautiful strives for a cleaner, greener future. Their year-round collaboration with volunteers of all sizes revitalizes local spaces, safeguarding property values, aesthetics, and the well-being of children and wildlife.

About Lowcountry Land Trust
Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s coastal ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 150,000 acres of land since its founding in 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the leading local land trusts in the United States. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.

About South Carolina Aquarium
The South Carolina Aquarium is committed to conserving water, wildlife, and wild places through education, research, and community engagement. The Aquarium fosters positive change for the natural world through its conservation efforts.

About Palmetto Pride
PalmettoPride is working towards a litter-free South Carolina. Created as a legislative initiative to fight litter and help beautify South Carolina by engaging citizens to take action in their communities through education, enforcement, awareness, and pickup.

Lowcountry

America Ferrera Will Join the Mainstage at Blackbaud’s bbcon 2023 Tech Conference

September 9, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

In a Keynote Conversation, the Award-Winning Actress, Activist and Author Will Share Perspectives on Belonging, Expectations and Going After Big Goals

CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 7, 2023/PRNewswire/ — Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB), the leading provider of software for powering social impact, today announced that America Ferrera will join the mainstage for a keynote conversation at bbcon 2023, Blackbaud’s annual tech conference. bbcon will be back live this year, October 22-24 in Denver, Colorado.

America Ferrera will join the mainstage at bbcon, Blackbaud’s annual tech conference.

“We’re thrilled to be hosting bbcon in person for the first time in three years, and for our customers to have the chance to hear from America Ferrera, live on the mainstage,” said Catherine LaCour, chief marketing officer, Blackbaud. “America’s impressive career as an actress and producer has been amplified by her important work advocating for social justice and equality. We know her insights will inspire our audience as they spend three days focused on fueling their own social impact.”

From her standout turn in this summer’s “Barbie” movie, back to her breakthrough role in “Ugly Betty,” Ferrera’s voice resonates. She has been recognized with a Screen Actors Guild Award®, an Emmy® and a Golden Globe®, and has a strong track record of using her platform to stand up to pressing issues in society. Through her work with her foundation, HARNESS, and nonprofit, Poderistas, which she co-founded alongside nine other activists and leaders, Ferrera has worked to address inequality and inspire action.

America Ferrera will join the mainstage at bbcon, Blackbaud’s annual tech conference.

bbcon 2023 will welcome thousands of Blackbaud users and those interested in learning more about how to use Blackbaud’s software to fuel their social impact. The agenda offers three days of unmatched networking, the latest in innovation and industry trends, and inspiring keynotes. Attendees will have the opportunity to grow their skills, make connections across Blackbaud’s customer community, and hear from Blackbaud leaders on what’s ahead in innovation and AI. The conference will offer over 150 breakout sessions as well as preconference workshops for product training and for developers of all levels.

In addition to Ferrera, Chaunté Lowe, U.S. Olympian, author and survivor, will also be joining the mainstage to share her insights on perseverance and balance.

Get more information about bbcon 2023 and register here.

About Blackbaud
Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB) is the leading software provider exclusively dedicated to powering social impact. Serving the nonprofit and education sectors, companies committed to social responsibility and individual change makers, Blackbaud’s essential software is built to accelerate impact in fundraising, nonprofit financial management, digital giving, grantmaking, corporate social responsibility and education management. With millions of users and over $100 billionraised, granted or managed through Blackbaud platforms every year, Blackbaud’s solutions are unleashing the potential of the people and organizations who change the world. Blackbaud has been named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Most Responsible Companies, Quartz’s list of Best Companies for Remote Workers, and Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers. A remote-first company, Blackbaud has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica and the United Kingdom, supporting users in 100+ countries. Learn more at www.blackbaud.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Lowcountry

Latest Updates September 2023 – Park Circle Reimagined Project

September 9, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Park Circle is soon to be reimagined to fit the community’s modern needs. The entirety of the inner circle will be redeveloped and include the largest inclusive playground in the country, a new community building with classrooms, flexible event space, a history and archives repository, an artist in residence studio and meeting rooms, an inclusive baseball field, a farmers market pavilion, nature garden, open green space, and walking trails.

Click for latest images and videos

Lowcountry

Two Local Mount Pleasant, SC Businesses Celebrate 6 Years of Operation

September 8, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Local jewelry designer,, Haley Holzworth, celebrates the sixth year of her flagship location of Hermosa Jewelry alongside Biz Foxworth, owner of Brown Fox Coffee. Both of these community staples stand side by side on Simmons Street in Mt. Pleasant, SC.

[Charleston, South Carolina, September 9th, 2023] – Hermosa Jewelry and Brown Fox Coffee invite you to come celebrate their 6 years of hard work and dedication at their joint location 307 Simmons St., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464. The festivities will begin on September 9th starting at 8am. Both businesses will be celebrating with Anniversary specials. The first 10 customers of Brown Fox Coffee will receive free drinks. Hermosa is having a storewide 20% off Anniversary Sale but does exclude Permanent Jewelry. There will be live music performed by Midwest Casual from 9am-12pm and gluten free pastries by Pastry Power (8am-11am). The day will also include multiple giveaways for gift cards and coffee.

About Hermosa Jewelry and Brown Fox Coffee

Haley Holzworth (owner of Hermosa Jewelry) and Biz Foxworth (owner of Brown Fox Coffee) both grew up in Charleston and are entrepreneurs in their fully female owned and operated businesses. Hermosa Jewelry specializes in jewelry made by hand using semi precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, crystals, glass, and shells. Hermosa Jewelry also specializes in Permanent Jewelry, being the first Permanent Jewelry company in Charleston, SC.. Brown Fox Coffee is the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day. Brown Fox Coffee serves organic, single-origin beans and all your other favorite flavors. While sharing one building for their flagship locations, both businesses have been able to thrive together in the tight knit Charleston community.

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For more information please contact Hermosa Jewelry’s PR specialist Emily Stankovits.Phone: (843)-619-1067 Email: hello@hermosajewelry.com Social Media: @hermosajewelry

Lowcountry

Fall in Asheville, NC: Color Forecast 2023 – What the warmer weather means for the fall colors

September 8, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

A warmer-than-average September could bring delayed “peak color” and a longer overall leaf season, giving travelers more time to take in the splendor

ASHEVILLE, N.C., Sept. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — While summer gently fades away, Asheville, North Carolina, prepares to unveil its annual masterpiece of nature: the breathtaking fall color leaf change. The biodiversity of tree species in the Blue Ridge Mountains ensures a visual symphony of crimson, gold, and amber hues, while variations in elevation grant leaf-peepers one of the longest fall color seasons in the nation.

Expert Forecasts: Local experts share their fall color predictions and favorite spots to witness nature’s vibrant display.

Mountains are top travel motivators (PRNewsfoto/Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Warm weather could delay peak color this year, extending the overall leaf season.
“NOAA’s long-range forecast predicts slightly warmer weather in the Southeast through November. Warmer temperatures, especially in the latter half of September, could delay peak color,” said Dr. Howie Neufeld, professor of plant eco-physiology at Appalachian State University. “If only a minor warming occurs, colors would be delayed 3-5 days. If more significant, it could be a week or two, depending on the magnitude of the warming.” Neufeld continues, “If it gets warm in the early fall, some trees will delay their color, but those cuing in mainly on day-length will continue to color up on schedule and the color season will become extended.”

Dr. Beverly Collins, former professor of biology at Western Carolina University, agrees. “If we return to more ‘normal’ cooler temperatures with moderate rainfall, colors should be vibrant, as they were last year. If it stays warm, fall color will be later and more spread out. This will result in a longer leaf season,” she said.
- Learn more about the fascinating science behind fall color.
Current conditions are favorable for fall color.
In addition to day-length and temperature, factors such as precipitation and insects can influence the quality of fall color. In 2023, current conditions have been favorable, noted Neufeld. “We are not in a drought situation which means trees won’t be losing their leaves prematurely.” He added that moderate rain along with the absence of major tree diseases and insect infestations “point to a good fall color season.”
- Fun Fact: While scientists know how trees turn red, the reason why remains a mystery. One theory suggests it’s a protective mechanism shielding leaves from intense light, while another proposes the red color acts as a deterrent to predators.

Follow the progression of color change in the Asheville area with the help of our 2023 Fall Color Hunters.

Venture beyond the popular areas while respecting nature.
Neufeld provides advice for those eager to experience the fall color transformation. He recommends getting outdoors early to avoid crowds and to plan weekday visits for a more serene experience. Exploring less popular areas and taking scenic drives beyond the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway is also advised. He emphasizes being prepared for weather changes and respecting nature while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
- Check out the best scenic drives for early, middle, and late in the fall season.
- Learn about the top eco-friendly ways to experience Fall in Asheville here.

Explore peak color in Asheville – beyond the leaves!
A world of color awaits travelers to Asheville now through fall, In addition to nature’s symphony of hues, this season offers colorful art, lodging, culinary and festival experiences that invite visitors into painted landscapes and imagined worlds (for more information about what’s new in Asheville this fall, check out our latest news release).

An artful feast, for all senses | Krafthouse: Forest of the New Trees is a new immersive art experience at the Center for Craft. The first-of-its-kind installation, created by local multidisciplinary artists, invites visitors into an imaginary realm, inspired by Appalachian craft traditions, indigenous wisdom, and the ancient wildness of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Sound and color take center stage | Amazing works of art come to life in Artrageous at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. This fusion of art, music, puppetry and dance has been described as “Picasso meets Blue Man Group”. Show runs on Sept. 23.
Sweet dreamscapes | Joining the River Arts District this fall is The Radical, a daring new boutique hotel and living art installation that breathes new life into a once abandoned building. The hotel’s richly layered design features original street art, both past and present. Now accepting reservations for stays beginning Oct. 8, 2023.
- On the heels of The Radical, Lark Hotels and Hatteras Sky will also introduce an artful love letter to Asheville with the opening of Zelda Dearest, a 20-room boutique hotel inspired by the intoxicating style of Zelda Fitzgerald.
- Other recent and upcoming luxury boutique openings include The Restoration Asheville, Blind Tiger Guest House, and the Flat Iron Hotel.

A colorful palate | James Beard Award-winning restaurant group Chai Pani has debuted its fast-casual concept Botiwalla in West Asheville. Botiwalla is owner and chef Meherwan Irani’s homage to the colorful cafes and savory kabobs of the late-night Indian food scene.
Asheville’s “Lovely” tapestry | The Lovely Asheville Annual Fall Festival (Oct. 14-15) provides travelers an opportunity to engage with the city’s tapestry of diverse cultures. The theme of this year’s festival centers on the shared love for nature, humanity, and art, promising a vibrant medley of art exhibitions, culinary delights, and live performances that epitomize Asheville’s exuberant spirit of inclusivity.

For more information on Asheville fall travel, including weekly color reports, a fall foliage tracking map, and autumn adventure ideas, visit ExploreAsheville.com.

For a rights-approved Fall Color photo gallery, click here. For more information, spokesperson contacts, photo and video assets, or site visit requests, please contact the PR Team at media@exploreasheville.com.

Want to chat about story ideas or travel support? Give us a call at (828) 257-4959.

About Asheville
Asheville is where unrivaled natural beauty and bold creative expression meet. Tucked away in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina, the city is steps away from some of the world’s most biodiverse forests and the tallest peaks in the East. For generations, Asheville has nurtured and inspired a compassionate community that’s deeply rooted and ever evolving – just like the ancient French Broad River that runs through it.

SOURCE Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau