Lifestyle

Lowcountry

Charleston Wine + Food Announces New Mission

March 5, 2024 by 0 Comments
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CHSWF expands commitment to culinary community with new mission, programs, and announcement of Culinary + Hospitality Fund

CHARLESTON, SC — [Tuesday, March 5, 2024] Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, Charleston Wine + Food (CHSWF), the esteemed non-profit organization renowned for producing premier culinary events celebrating the rich and diverse food culture of the Lowcountry, is sharing a fresh perspective and renewed commitment for the future of Charleston. Embracing a new mission, the organization aims to not only showcase the local culinary industry but also to actively contribute to its growth and sustainability.

In alignment with its new mission, the organization is expanding its education and workforce programs, and is introducing a new investment fund dedicated to enhanced financial and educational support of the local food and beverage community. Having contributed $170.5 million in economic impact since its inception nearly 20 years ago, CHSWF is creating a new vehicle to provide direct, immediate and positive impact for individuals and businesses in the culinary industry.

“We are thrilled to introduce the CHSWF Culinary + Hospitality Investment Fund as a dynamic extension of our commitment to the culinary community,” said Alyssa Maute Smith, Executive Director of Charleston Wine + Food. “This initiative aligns with our mission to celebrate and elevate the vibrant food and beverage scene in Charleston. By providing financial support, mentorship, and a platform for visibility, we aim to address the sustainability of the local culinary + hospitality community and contribute to the long-term success of local entrepreneurs.”

This strategic initiative reflects the organization’s commitment to becoming a driving force in the industry, nurturing talent, and creating a more inclusive and dynamic food landscape.

Said Smith, “we envision this as a community-wide embrace of our food and beverage peers. Our role is to spin-off revenue from ticket sales to support the people who feed and host us. And others are invited to dig in, and help strengthen the fund with their own heartfelt investments.”

Key Features of the CHSWF Culinary + Hospitality Investment Fund:

Financial Support: The fund will offer grants and financial assistance to food and beverage employees and businesses, helping them navigate challenges and pursue innovative projects.

Mentorship Programs: Recognizing the value of mentorship, the fund will establish programs connecting industry veterans with aspiring entrepreneurs to foster knowledge exchange and skill development. This is an extension of the existing programs for industry professionals and ongoing externships organized for high school and college students.

New Events: CHSWF will bring back year-round programming, as it prepares to launch a yearlong celebration in honor of the festival’s 20th anniversary, providing sustained opportunities to promote and support local talent 365-days of the year.

Support for the fund is just beginning with seed investments from Mickey Bakst of Feed the Need, and Steve Palmer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group. Together the two founded Ben’s Friends, a nonprofit that supports food and beverage industry professionals who are struggling with addiction and substance abuse.

“I am thrilled to announce Feed the Need’s investment in the Charleston Wine + Food Fund, an initiative that aligns seamlessly with our mission to support culinary excellence and community enrichment,” said Mickey Baskt, Founder of Feed the Need. “The values of CHSWF resonate deeply with Feed the Need, and we believe that by investing in this fund, we can play a pivotal role in furthering its impactful initiatives.”

“Charleston Wine + Food has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting culinary innovation, fostering local talent, and cultivating a vibrant food culture in the Charleston community,” said Steve Palmer of Indigo Road. “Our collaboration with Charleston Wine + Food reflects our dedication to nurturing the culinary arts, supporting aspiring chefs, and enhancing our community.

Bakst’s and Palmer’s pledges play a pivotal role in supporting food + beverage professionals, culinary entrepreneurs, and food-related initiatives in the Charleston area. Their unwavering dedication to the culinary arts and community development sets a commendable example, inspiring others to actively contribute to the enrichment of their communities through similar initiatives.

“Leadership has long been focused on the topic of economic sustainability for our culinary community,” said Mamie Bush, Charleston Wine + Food Board Chair. “Shining our spotlight on the issues that challenge our colleagues – from workforce development to financial support in times of crisis – is a natural way for us to lean in. We’re excited to see the entire community pick up this challenge and show their appreciation for the people who feed and care for us all.”

The Festival will announce in coming months the process by which organizations and individuals can apply for grant funds. To learn more about the Fund or to contribute, visit chswf.com.

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About Charleston Wine and Food: A 501c3 with a mission to support the culinary, beverage and hospitality community in the greater Charleston region. By focusing on local sustainability – economic, cultural and environmental – the Festival seeks to make positive, year-round impacts. Anchored by a five-day festival, the organization also programs educational programs, immersive events and engagement opportunities designed to enrich the understanding of local culture and foodways. In 2023, the Festival contributed more than $32 million to the greater Charleston economy. Visit charlestonwineandfood.com for more information.

Related: Everything you need to know about Charleston Wine + Food 2024

Lowcountry

Asheville, NC based Wicked Weed Brewing Earns Zero Waste Certification

March 5, 2024 by 0 Comments
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Brewing facility is one of only three breweries in the United States to receive designation

ASHEVILLE, N.C., March 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Wicked Weed Brewing today announced that its main production brewery located in Candler, North Carolina, has been award GOLD certification under the TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) rating system. Administered by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), TRUE helps facilities measure, improve and recognize zero waste performance by encouraging the adoption of sustainable waste management and reduction practices, which contribute to positive environmental, health and economic outcomes.

Wicked Weed Brewing is one of only three breweries in the United States to receive zero waste certification. To reach this milestone, Wicked Weed diverted its waste to 99.3%, sending less than 0.7% of over 18 million pounds of materials to landfills in 2023.
Wicked Weed Brewing is one of only three breweries in the United States to receive zero waste certification. To reach this milestone, Wicked Weed diverted its waste to 99.3%, sending less than 0.7% of over 18 million pounds of materials to landfills in 2023.

“Since Wicked Weed was founded in 2012, sustainability has been a cornerstone of our ethos and we’re honored that this certification recognizes our commitment to brewing our beer and operating our company with zero waste,” said Andrew Dagnan, Director of Safety & Sustainability at Wicked Weed. “We remain more dedicated than ever to having a net positive impact on our people, communities and the environment.”

To reach this milestone, Wicked Weed diverted its waste to 99.3%, sending less than 0.7% of over 18 million lbs. of materials to landfills in 2023.

  • Sent over 100 tons of material for recycle and over 11,000 lbs. of materials to compost in 2023.
  • Sent over 6,000 tons of spent grain as cattle feed in 2023. 
  • Switched to using reusable straps for shipping kegs locally to Wicked Weed locations, eliminating the use of plastic shrink wrap for securing local shipments.
  • Changed to 100% recyclable packaging for shipping merchandise from the brewery’s online shop.
  • Switched from using sample collection cups covered with aluminum foil to collection cups with resuable lids, eliminating 2,825 square feet of aluminum foil waste per year.
  • Implemented online systems accessible via QR codes to replace paper forms and inspection sheets.
  • Completed four successful zero-waste audits in 2023.
  • Audited and implemented improvements to recycle, waste, and compost collection areas with help from the “Green Freaks,” the brewery’s internal sustainability team and Waste Reduction Partners (WRP).
  • Wicked Weed is working toward a goal to have standardized How2Recycle labeling on all of our consumer-facing products by 2025. This includes aluminum cans, glass bottles, and can cardboard wraps. 
  • Wicked Weed is proud to be the first craft brewery to add standardized recycling labels to our products through the How2Recycle platform.
  • Wicked Weed partnered with CIRT to help consumers understand how and where to recycle our products in their area. It’s super easy – Click on this link, enter your location, and select the product to learn how to recycle it.

In addition, Wicked Weed created a community recycling area to collect items that are traditionally difficult to recycle—such as Styrofoam™, natural corks, plastic bags, and PakTech can carriers—from both the public and employees. The company worked locally with Feed Me Foam, to host “Foam Fridays” and collected approximately 28 cubic yards of foam from the public to recycle and ensured that its packaged products were diverted from the landfill to better use by promote recycling of its products through partnerships with both How2Recycle and CIRT to ensure the recyclability of its products.

“Waste impacts every part of our communities and effective waste management strategies are critical to ensuring both public and environmental health,” said Peter Templeton, president and CEO, GBCI. “By pursuing TRUE certification, Wicked Weed demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and actions to reduce waste and resources throughout their system lifecycle.”

About Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI)

GBCI is the world’s leading sustainability and health certification and credentialing body. Established in 2008, GBCI exclusively administers project certifications and professional credentials and certificates within the framework of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building rating systems, as well as the PEER standard for power systems, the WELL Building Standard, the Sustainable SITES Initiative (SITES), EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies), TRUE certification for zero waste and Investor Confidence Project (ICP) for energy efficiency retrofits. Visit gbci.org.

About Wicked Weed Brewing

Wicked Weed Brewing is an award-winning brewery based in Asheville, North Carolina. Founded in December 2012, Wicked Weed Brewing currently operates a 50-barrel production brewery, a sour beer production facility and four retail locations, including the original Brewpub in the heart of downtown Asheville, the southeast’s first mixed-culture dedicated taproom, the Funkatorium, and the Wicked Weed West taproom. In 2019, Wicked Weed Brewing opened Cultura, a fine dining restaurant that was a 2020 semifinalist nominee for the James Beard Foundation Best New Restaurant award. Learn more at: WickedWeedBrewing.com 

Lowcountry

Charleston Breeze – Original Lyrics

March 4, 2024 by 0 Comments
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Charleston Breeze – Original Song 

(Verse 1) Well, I’m sittin’ on the porch, sweet tea in my hand, Watchin’ Spanish moss sway in the warm sea breeze. Charleston, my darlin’, you’re a Southern dream, Where the river meets the ocean, and time stands still, it seems.

(Chorus) Oh, Charleston breeze, carry me away, To cobblestone streets and magnolia-scented days. With your antebellum mansions and secrets in the pines, I’m dancin’ to the rhythm of your low-country rhymes.

(Verse 2) Down by the Battery, where the waves kiss the shore, I hear the ghosts of pirates and old plantation lore. The sun sinks low, paintin’ the sky in hues of gold, And the shrimp boats come home, their tales left untold.

(Chorus) Oh, Charleston breeze, carry me away, To cobblestone streets and magnolia-scented days. With your antebellum mansions and secrets in the pines, I’m dancin’ to the rhythm of your low-country rhymes.

(Bridge) Moonlight on the marsh, fireflies in flight, Sweetgrass baskets weavin’ stories through the night. Church bells chime, callin’ souls to find their peace, In this old Holy City, where grace and grit never cease.

(Chorus) Oh, Charleston breeze, carry me away, To cobblestone streets and magnolia-scented days. With your antebellum mansions and secrets in the pines, I’m dancin’ to the rhythm of your low-country rhymes.

(Outro) So raise a glass of bourbon, let the fiddles play, In Charleston’s warm embrace, I’ll forever sway. For this ain’t just a city; it’s a soulful melody, And I’ll keep singin’ ’bout Charleston, till eternity.

Lowcountry

Report Finds That 73% of Pet Parents Have Made Connections Despite Differences Because of Their Pets

March 4, 2024 by 0 Comments
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Global pet care leader Mars releases “Pets Connect Us” report unveiling new research on the power pet ownership has to connect people and communities

FRANKLIN, Tenn., Feb. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Mars launched its “Pets Connect Us” Report, which leverages new consumer insights to shed light on the future of pet parenthood in the U.S. and Canada. At a time when 24% of people ages 15 and older report feeling very or fairly lonely1, pets not only offer companionship, but also bring us together. Mars’ report explores the positive impact of pets on people and communities, and the unique bonds formed through our mutual affection for our pets. Despite the multitude of benefits to pet parenthood, new global data from the State of Pet Homelessness Project, an initiative by Mars and leading welfare animal welfare experts, estimates that 20% of dogs and cats in the U.S. and Canada are living outdoors as strays or waiting in shelters to be adopted.

“Our latest ‘Pets Connect Us’ report shows a very clear picture: the power of pets in bringing people together is stronger than ever,” says Lisa Campbell, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Mars Pet Nutrition North America. “With new consumer insights on the increasingly important role pets play in our lives, along with the latest data on the state of pet homelessness across North America, we are better prepared to build on our Purpose of creating a Better World For Pets.”

The “Pets Connect Us” Report’s key findings, based on a survey of pet parents in the U.S. and Canada2 and a survey of the general population in both countries3, include:

Pets Combat Loneliness:

  • Eighty-three percent of adults have communicated or interacted with people they otherwise would have not connected with because of their pet.
  • Seventy-three percent of pet parents have connected with someone from a different generation, culture or racial/ethnic background through mutual affection for their pets.
  • About 80% of pet parents meet neighbors through their pets.
  • More than seven in 10 have formed unexpected friendships as a result.

Pets Enable Connection:

  • About nine in 10 adults say that pets act as conversation starters or ice breakers.
  • Eighty-seven percent of pet parents have an easier time connecting with someone else if they have a pet.
  • Seventy-nine percent of adults say pet parents are kinder and 76% say they are more trustworthy.
  • Eighty-eight percent of pet parents are more likely to “swipe right” on a dating app if a pet is featured in the profile picture.
  • Nearly six in 10 pet parents who are employed talk about their pets often with coworkers.

Pets Build Community:

  • Nine in 10 pet parents agree that pets contribute to a stronger sense of community.
  • Eighty-three percent of pet parents enjoy proactive community support for their pets, including offers from neighbors to help with feeding or walking.
  • Eighty-eight percent of pet parents want more community spaces that facilitate connections between pet lovers.

The power of pets to connect us and build community is undeniable, and yet, there are still nearly 50 million homeless pets in US and Canada. That’s why Mars takes seriously its responsibility to care for 450 million pets and pet parents around the world. A global leader in pet care – spanning comprehensive veterinary care, nutrition, breakthrough programs in diagnostics, wearable health monitoring, DNA testing and pet parent platforms – Mars’ brands are leading on issues that matter to pet parents, like creating more pet-friendly offices through the CESAR® brand’s Workplace Grants and hosting the largest-ever Pet Adoption Weekend. Through its BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ program, Mars is helping cities be pet-friendly so more people can enjoy the benefits of a life and community with pets. While positive strides have been made, there is still work to be done.

Mars and its family of brands will continue to introduce research and programs designed to further its purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. Visit BetterCitiesForPets.com/2023report to read the “Pets Connect Us” Report and visit BetterCitiesforPets.com to get involved.

About Mars, Incorporated   
Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a global, family-owned business, Mars is transforming, innovating, and evolving to make a positive impact on the world.  Across our diverse and expanding portfolio of quality snacking, food, and pet care products and services, we employ 140,000+ dedicated Associates. With more than $47 billion in annual sales, we produce some of the world’s best-loved brands including Ben’s Original™, CESAR®, Cocoavia®, DOVE®, EXTRA®, KIND®, M&M’S®, SNICKERS®, PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, and WHISKAS®. We are creating A Better World for Pets through our global network of pet hospitals and diagnostic services – including AniCura, BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, Linnaeus and VCA™ – using cutting edge technology to develop breakthrough programs in genetic health screening and DNA testing.    

__________________________________
1 https://news.gallup.com/opinion/gallup/512618/almost-quarter-world-feels-lonely.aspx
2 KRC Research conducted online surveys of 1,000 pet parents each from the U.S. and Canada from October 30 – November 6, 2023.
3 KRC Research conducted online surveys of 1,000 adults each from the U.S. and Canada. The study was fielded from December 15 – 17, 2023, in the U.S. and December 15 – 21, 2023, in Canada.

SOURCE Mars, Incorporated

Lowcountry

Doyle Receives Charleston, South Carolina Preservation Award

March 4, 2024 by 0 Comments
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Doyle’s Renovation of its Historic King Street Gallery Received the Preservation Society of Charleston’s Carolopolis Award

Headquartered in New York, Doyle Auctioneers & Appraisers Opened its Renovated Charleston Gallery in Fall 2023

CHARLESTON, S.C., March 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Doyle Auctioneers & Appraisers was honored to receive the distinguished Carolopolis Award of the Preservation Society of Charleston at the 70th Carolopolis Awards ceremony on February 29, 2024. The award recognized Doyle’s 2023 renovation of the historic 1888 building at 123 King Street housing its Charleston gallery. Stated the Society of the renovation,”123 King Street once again proudly contributes to this prominent corridor and serves as a shining example of the traditional craftsmanship and architectural character so integral to Charleston’s historic streetscape.”

Doyle's newly renovated gallery at 123 King Street in Charleston. Photo: The Preservation Society of Charleston
Doyle’s newly renovated gallery at 123 King Street in Charleston. Photo: The Preservation Society of Charleston

Doyle partnered with Julia F. Martin Architects of Charleston on the project that included reconstruction of the storefront, renovation of the first floor for a new gallery, improvements to the second floor residences, and restoration of the historic piazzas. Archer Construction sensitively executed the build out, and landscape architect Glen Gardner created the new walled courtyard and garden.

Accepting the Carolopolis Award on behalf of Doyle were CEO Laura Doyle and Charleston Regional Advisor Emily Grimball Longley, in addition to Julia F. Martin and Erin Lanier of Julia F. Martin Architects and Travis Fitts of Archer Construction.

“Carolopolis projects are rarely about any one individual, but how groups of those devoted to stewardship can collectively work together to tackle challenges that can appear insurmountable,” said Brian Turner, President & CEO of the Preservation Society.

Doyle’s Charleston-based Regional Advisors regularly host events within the newly renovated King Street gallery. These include consignment days featuring Doyle’s team of Specialists, connoisseurship talks on a range of collecting topics, and preview exhibitions of property to be auctioned in New York and online to collectors around the globe. For information, call 843-501-2450 or email Charleston@Doyle.com.

The Carolopolis Award
The Carolopolis Award was created in 1953 to recognize outstanding achievement in historic preservation. The presentation of a Carolopolis Award honors extraordinary private and public efforts to maintain the historic character and authenticity of Charleston and the Lowcountry.

The Preservation Society of Charleston 
Founded in 1920, the Preservation Society of Charleston (PSC) is the oldest grassroots preservation organization in the nation. The PSC is more resilient than ever as it enters its second century of recognizing, protecting, and advocating for the Lowcountry’s historic places, while serving as a strong advocacy leader for citizens concerned about preserving Charleston’s distinctive character, quality of life, and diverse neighborhoods. For information, visit preservationsociety.org. 

About Doyle Auctioneers & Appraisers
Founded in 1962, Doyle is one of the world’s foremost auctioneers and appraisers of jewelry, art, furniture, decorations, Asian works of art, coins, stamps, rare books and other categories. Headquartered in New York City, Doyle offers auctions throughout the year that attract a broad base of buyers and consignors from around the world. Doyle operates a network of regional offices and advisors across the nation, including Palm Beach, Beverly Hills, Charleston, Boston, Washington DC, Chicago, Connecticut, Long Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and North Carolina. For information, visit Doyle.com.

SOURCE Doyle New York

Lowcountry

5 Significant Transformations to Charleston, South Carolina in the last decade – Commentary

March 4, 2024 by 0 Comments
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Over the past decade, Charleston, South Carolina has undergone significant transformations. Let’s delve into some of the notable changes:

Folly Beach Modernization and Monetization:

  • Folly Beach, a beloved area beach, has evolved. Here are some key shifts:
    • Entrance Fees: Street festivals, including events like Folly Gras, now charge entrance fees.
    • Paid Parking: Arctic has introduced paid parking on the streets.
    • Digital Payment: The beach entrance parking lots no longer accept cash; instead, you must use a phone app for payment.
    • Construction Boom: New construction is on the rise around the Center Street area.

Decline of Local First Businesses in Downtown Charleston:

  • Iconic local businesses like Bluestein’s Clothing, Morris Sokol Furniture, Bob Ellis Shoes, King Street Grille, Piggly Wiggly, and Hughes Lumber have been closing their doors.
    • The surge in tourism has led to overcrowding, pushing out local patrons.


Corporate Influence and Billboards:

  • Corporate giants have made their mark:
    • Starbucks and Whole Foods (West Ashley)
    • Starbucks, Chik-fil-a, Zaxy’s, Wendy’s, McDonalds (James Island)
    • Walgreens (Corner of King and Calhoun)
    • 5 Guys Burgers, and multiple Starbucks on King Street
    • West Elm, Williams-Sonoma, Louis Vuitton, Publix, Vans, Gucci, Target, H&M, Apple, and more downtown.
    • These corporate billboards are reshaping the cityscape.
    • Large hospitality groups led by Uptown Hospitality expanding its footprint on the peninsula.

Changing Skyline and Church Steeples:

  • Cranes and construction have dominated Charleston’s skyline for years.
    • Massive projects in the medical district, Crosstown, Lockwood, Joe Riley area, Upper King Street, and Upper Meeting Street are altering the city forever.

Breweries vs. Churches:

  • Charleston’s reputation is shifting from its historic churches to its burgeoning brewery scene.
    • With over 30 breweries in the Lowcountry, beer culture is thriving.

In summary, Charleston has become more modern, corporate, and bustling with tourists. While economic growth is evident, some long for the old-world charm that once defined this enchanting city.  We can all agree, progress does take sacrifice. It’s still our beautiful Charleston home.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Lowcountry

Meals on Wheels of Summerville Announces Inaugural Dink and Deliver Classic Pickleball Tournament

March 1, 2024 by 0 Comments
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SUMMERVILLE, SC – Meals on Wheels of Summerville announces the launch of the inaugural Dink and Deliver Classic, a pickleball tournament set to take place on April 13 and 14 at The Pickle Bar, 162 Cherry Street, Summerville, 29486. The event promises to be a lively fundraiser, with Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles categories ensuring something for everyone. Event proceeds directly support the Meals on Wheels of Summerville mission, addressing hunger and isolation by providing meals, companionship, and specialized programs without government funding, making a tangible impact on clients’ well-being.

Register now through April 7 at mowsummerville.org/pickleball. Players must register as a team for $60 per individual and $120 for a pair, which includes all events: Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles, as well as a commemorative t-shirt and swag bag.

“At Meals on Wheels of Summerville, we believe in being more than a meal – we are a beacon of hope for individuals facing food insecurities and isolation,” said Crystal Bovell, CEO and Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Summerville. “Funds raised from our Dink and Deliver Classic will go beyond providing a meal; they are a lifeline for those who are homebound, offering companionship, support, and a connection to the outside world.”

Each team registration provides 60 meals for individuals facing food insecurities and isolation. Since 1982, operating without government funding, Meals on Wheels of Summerville has relied on the support of the local community to make a difference. In 2023, the organization achieved the following milestones:

·         64,833 meals delivered through 23 routes.

·         40,736 miles driven by dedicated volunteers.

·         5,817 volunteer hours served.

·         3,408 pounds of pet food provided for those in need.

Meals on Wheels invites businesses and individuals to join as sponsors or secure vendor booths for the Dink and Deliver Classic. Thank you to Court Sponsors, Your Health Organization, Baldoni Aesthetic, and Republic Finance LLC; Dink Sponsors, Electric Supply Company, Lowcountry Home Sales-Carolina Jordan, First National Bank-Summerville, home Mobile Veterinary Service, Senior Care Insurance Services LLC, Modern Woodmen of America, Lowcountry Dentistry, Ridge Lake Farm & Pottery, and State Farm-Tony Pope.

ABOUT MEALS ON WHEELS OF SUMMERVILLE

Founded in 1982, Meals on Wheels of Summerville stands as a beacon of support for the Summerville community, addressing issues of hunger and isolation. The organization’s mission is to provide nourishing meals and compassionate companionship to individuals facing challenges such as limited mobility or isolation. Operating in the Summerville area and receiving no government funding, Meals on Wheels of Summerville is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Beyond meal delivery, the organization runs specialized programs, such as AniMeals, ensuring that both the nutritional needs of individuals and their beloved pets are met. For more information, visit mowsummerville.org or call 843.873.8224.

Lowcountry

Celebrating Herd Provisions Executive Chef Jeanne Oleksiak and Events Director Kellie Holmes – Learn more about these influential women leaders in the Charleston culinary scene

March 1, 2024 by 0 Comments
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As a celebration of Women’s History Month, we wanted to share background on some of the powerful women behind Herd Provisions, Charleston’s whole-animal butcher shop, restaurant and boutique grocery destination. 

  • Executive Chef Jeanne Oleksiak helms the kitchen as she oversees the restaurant’s culinary operations and collaborates with the staff to create innovative farm-to-table dishes. Formerly of Poogan’s Porch, Lana Restaurant, Pages Okra Grill and Park & Grove, Oleksiak serves as a leader, teacher and motivator for the culinary team at Herd Provisions. During the pandemic, she connected with Herd Provisions’ owner Alec Bradford and joined him at the restaurant. Oleksiak has since maintained the title of executive chef, while also working as a butcher and pastry chef throughout the years. Chef Oleksiak’s culinary philosophy for Herd Provisions prioritizes supporting local purveyors and ensuring their products are sustainably raised, grown and produced. Please see HERE for Jeanne’s full bio.

  • As Herd Provisions’ Wine & Events Director, Kellie Holmes runs the wine program for the dining room and retail shop, along with facilitating events and acting as an advisor and operations support, bringing into play her years of experience as a general manager. She focuses on sustainability and small production and minimal intervention wines that pair well across the menu. Please see HERE for Kellie’s full bio.
Lowcountry

Cat Nearly Crushed at Junkyard Reunited with Owner Thanks to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

February 29, 2024 by 0 Comments
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 Early last week, an employee at Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, located at 31 Glendale Ave, Asheville, NC, received an alarming message from her partner. While at the junkyard where he works, Sarah Batten’s boyfriend encountered a young cat who leaped into his arms just moments before the car it was using as shelter was scheduled to be crushed!

After completing the rest of his shift with the small cat tucked away in his jacket, Batten’s partner drove to Brother Wolf in the hopes of helping his new feline friend, Lilly, receive any care she needed and to check for a microchip. Staff at Brother Wolf treated Lilly immediately for dehydration before working to ensure she was medically sound overall.

During Lilly’s medical exam, Batten’s boyfriend received a call from his co-workers at the junkyard who had made contact with a man who was frantically searching for his lost cat. It just so happened that this man’s missing cat loved sneaking into cars and had previously made a habit of quietly leaving the house for spontaneous adventures. 

After getting the owner’s contact information, the medical team at Brother Wolf reached out to ask if he would be agreeable to Brother Wolf microchipping, vaccinating, and spaying Lilly. Not only was he grateful to hear that Lilly was okay, but he eagerly and happily agreed to receive the additional medical help at no cost. 

After her spay surgery, Batten and her partner drove Lilly back to her home. “Lilly took a nap the whole way there, and she woke up to the sound of her dad talking to her. You could see the look of relief and happiness on her face when she realized she was home,” Batten said. “Her dad scooped her up, and she nestled right into him.”

Lilly’s owner expressed immense gratitude that Brother Wolf Animal Rescue had stepped up and provided his cat with a safe place to stay as well as the medical attention she needed. He is especially thrilled that Lilly is now microchipped and spayed, though he is hopeful that her wild journey has taught her a valuable lesson about running away from home!

Media Contact

  • Leah Craig Chumbley – Executive Director
  • Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
  • (828) 620-0041
  • leahcraig@bwar.org 

Lowcountry

Charleston, SC Based Blackbaud Supports Crisis Text Line to Help Fund the Nonprofit’s International Expansion

February 28, 2024 by 0 Comments
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Crisis Text Line Provides Mental Health Support to Those in Emotional Distress

CHARLESTON, S.C., Feb. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB), the leading provider of software for powering social impact, today announced that its 2024 annual major gift will support Crisis Text Line, a nonprofit organization that provides free, 24/7, confidential text-based mental health support. Currently, Crisis Text Line serves anyone in the United States (including Puerto Rico) in both English and Spanish, and works with affiliates in Canada, the UK and Ireland. Blackbaud’s donation will be utilized for the organization’s plans to expand its service into Latin America and Australia with the goal of providing critical mental health support to more people globally.

Since Crisis Text Line’s launch in 2013, the organization has supported more than 12 million conversations globally, connecting more than 65,000 trained volunteer crisis counselors to texters in emotional distress. Only 19% of texters have access to professional mental health support, and 25% say they don’t have anyone else to talk to. Crisis Text Line is a unique platform for teens in particular, as 88% of teens in the U.S. have or have access to mobile phones, and 90% of teens communicate via text messages. Individuals seeking mental health support through Crisis Text Line can text HELLO to 741741 to reach a live volunteer crisis counselor, at any time and for no cost.

“Mental health is one of the most critical and important issues our society faces today,” said Margaret “Maggie” Driscoll, chief people and culture officer, Blackbaud. “By supporting Crisis Text Line, we are prioritizing mental health resources not only for our own employees, but also for the broader communities where they live and work, making quality mental health care more accessible and reducing stigma for those in need.”

Blackbaud places significant importance on providing total wellbeing benefits designed to help employees thrive while they help customers drive impact—this includes supporting the emotional, social, intellectual, physical and financial health of employees and their families. In addition, Blackbaud is educating students on the importance of mental health through the EVERFI® from Blackbaud course “Understanding Mental Wellness,” a free, digital course that introduces students to the topic of mental health and the ways in which they can implement coping strategies.

“Expanding mental health resources internationally will not only help individuals in need but will also foster global resilience, understanding, and empathy,” said Dena Trujillo, CEO at Crisis Text Line. “Thanks to our partnership with Blackbaud, we are building a foundation for a healthier, more compassionate and connected world.”

Blackbaud’s donation will be structured as a multi-year gift to Crisis Text Line to facilitate an ongoing partnership. Blackbaud will engage employees by raising awareness of the resources available to them through Crisis Text Line and by inviting representatives from Crisis Text Line to present to Blackbaud employees as part of team meetings and special events. In addition, Blackbaud will encourage employees to explore the opportunity to volunteer by becoming trained counselors for Crisis Text Line.

This annual gift follows Blackbaud’s donations in previous years to organizations focused on supporting workforce development for underrepresented youth, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Project Drawdown. Learn more about Blackbaud corporate social responsibility at https://csr.blackbaud.com/. 

About Crisis Text Line
Crisis Text Line is a nonprofit organization that provides free, confidential, 24/7, high-quality text-based mental health support in English and Spanish. Since its launch in 2013, Crisis Text Line has engaged in more than 9 million crisis conversations and trained over 65,000 volunteers to support people in their moments of need. Crisis Text Line is committed to creating an empathetic world where nobody feels alone. Individuals seeking confidential support can connect with us via text, web chat and WhatsApp. To be connected to a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor, text HELLO to 741741 or 443-SUPPORT in WhatsApp or text HOLA to 741741 or 442-AYUDAME in WhatsApp for Spanish or connect with us via web chat. Visit Crisis Text Line on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and TikTok.  Additional information, including how to become a volunteer or how to support Crisis Text Line through donations or partnerships, is available at www.crisistextline.org.

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 billion raised, 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 X/Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.