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.
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.
USAA SafePilot® Score
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.
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.
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 atwww.blackbaud.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 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
New Partnership Adds Award-winning Clinical Research Leader, Dr. Donald Hurley, to Wake Research’s National Network
CHARLESTON, S.C. /PRNewswire/ — M3 Wake Research, a leading fully integrated network of clinical research sites and one of North America’s largest providers of Phase I-IV clinical trials, is expanding operations into Charleston, SC with the opening of a clinical research practice. Operating as Charleston Clinical Trials, LLC, the new center is led by Donald Hurley, DO, and located at 2270 Ashley Crossing Drive in Charleston.
Dr. Hurley will serve as Principal Investigator. He brings more than 35 years of clinical experience to Charleston Clinical Trials, including 18 years in clinical research as a principal and sub-investigator in more than 40 therapeutic areas, with Medical Research South, LLC.
“I am excited to join the M3 Wake Research network and anticipate the continued growth of our Phase 2-4 trial base here in Charleston,” said Dr. Hurley. “This is a diverse, active market in a growing area, and we look forward to providing access to more investigative therapies to the community here.”
Dr. Hurley has practiced in South Carolina for most of his career after some stints working in Georgia, Virginia, and overseas deployments in the US Navy. He has obtained numerous professional awards including six years of recognition among “America’s Top Family Doctors,” between 2002-2021, two Navy Commendation Medals, two Navy Achievement medals, and a commendation letter for his work with the White House Medical Unit, among many other achievements throughout his career.
Dr. Hurley is supported by an experienced clinical research team including a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator who is managing the site operations of Charleston Clinical Trials.
The Charleston team will provide clinical research services in a variety of therapeutic areas including vaccines, gastroenterology, cardiovascular disease (hypertension, etc), diabetes, urology (UTIs, etc), and more.
For more information about conducting clinical trials in South Carolina, please contact: 843-994-6574
About M3 Inc.:
M3 Inc. operates in the US, Asia, and Europe with over 5.8 million physician members globally via its physician websites such as mdlinx.com, m3.com, research.m3.com, doctors.net.uk, medigate.net and medlive.cn. M3 Inc. is a publicly traded company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TYO:2413) with subsidiaries in major markets including USA, UK, Japan, S. Korea, and China. M3 Inc. provides services to healthcare and the life science industry. In addition to clinical research, these services include medical education, ethical drug promotion, market research, job recruitment, and clinic appointment services. M3 has offices in Tokyo, Fort Washington, PA, Raleigh, NC, Oxford, London, Paris, Beijing, and Seoul.
About M3-Wake Research, Inc.:
M3-Wake Research is an organization of integrated investigational sites, committed to excellence, working closely with and meeting the needs of the biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and pharmaceutical industries. M3-Wake Research’s 23 sites are fully equipped to meet the needs of sponsors and CROs in the conduct of Phase I-IV clinical trials in a large variety of indications.
M3-Wake Research is known for effectively combining strategic volunteer recruitment, rapid trial start-up and subject enrollment/retention with high quality clinical trial conduct, using standardized operating procedures and centralized marketing and advertising to ensure rapid subject enrollment. M3-Wake Research sites have conducted more than 9,100 research studies for hundreds of pharmaceutical and biotech sponsors and CROs. Wake Research’s mission is to bring novel medications, biologics, and devices through clinical research to as many people as possible while providing unparalleled service and exceptional value to clinical trial partners and stakeholders. For more information, visit www.wakeresearch.com.
Contractors and businesses can see the industry-leading walls in person at a luncheon event hosted by the new owner
CHARLESTON, S.C. /PRNewswire/ — Temporary Wall Systems (TWS), the first and leading full-service, temporary containment wall provider in the United States, will host a grand opening luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 13 at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites at 3025 W. Montague Avenue. The newest location, owned by military veteran and restoration and air quality expert Mario Colangelo, will be the first in South Carolina.
Temporary Wall Systems Charleston and owner Mario Colangelo (pictured) are opening a new location with a luncheon event on Thursday, July 13 at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Charleston.
Construction professionals and facility managers will be able to see a TWS wall installation set up in the hotel’s meeting space. Attendees can examine the high-quality walls, explore customization capabilities and ask questions while enjoying lunch catered by local favorite, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q.
“We welcome contractors, restoration experts and remodeling professionals looking for faster, easier temporary containment solutions,” Colangelo said. “Come by, have some lunch and see what a difference TWS can make for your business. When you see how much time you can save and the waste you can eliminate, you’ll want to use our full-service wall systems for every job.”
He said that Temporary Wall Systems provides the ideal solution for clean, fast, sustainable temporary containment barriers for Charleston businesses as they renovate the city’s older buildings.
“Temporary Wall Systems is the missing piece of the puzzle in the construction and renovation industry,” Colangelo said. “The ability to separate the operational part of businesses from the construction and renovation of the business is a game-changer. We eliminate the need for contractors to use traditional building materials like drywall or plastic sheeting. This will reduce much of the waste associated with temporary containment barriers used for construction.”
Colangelo was born and raised in Rochester, New York, but moved to Charleston after joining the U.S. Air Force in 1985. After his military service, he remained in the historic southern city with his wife, Jennifer. He has operated a restoration and indoor air quality business for more than 11 years and brings a wealth of expertise to his new business.
“I am very familiar with the commercial building space, including renovation and demolition,” Colangelo said. “This enables me to see the difficulties businesses experience when they start a renovation process. Charleston is now one of the most attractive relocation destinations in the country. This migration from other states means the city’s commercial building inventory is at a premium. TWS allows businesses to remain open during renovation while keeping customers, staff, and crew safe.”
TWS Charleston will serve the Lowcountry, which includes Charleston, North Charleston, Hanahan, Goose Creek, Ladson, Mount Pleasant, Sullivans Island and Summerville, South Carolina.
Temporary Wall Systems’ full-service model includes rental, delivery, installation, and removal of these versatile, time-saving wall systems. It provides containment solutions for hospitals, labs, airports, restaurants, retailers, hotels, data centers and more. The superior containment and customization are especially beneficial for renovation in occupied spaces like hospitals and restaurants.
TWS is part of HomeFront Brands, a family of emerging, franchised residential and commercial property service brands that offers integrated technology, data support, lead generation, business intelligence systems and training to its partners.
Founded in 2017 and franchised since 2022, Temporary Wall Systems (TWS) is the first and leading full-service, rentable containment wall provider in the United States. TWS offers commercial contractors and facilities managers a turnkey alternative to labor-intensive interim containment methods like drywall. Construction professionals and business owners benefit from clean, safe and quiet business continuity during construction, renovation, or maintenance projects. Applications include healthcare, hospitality, public transportation, education, retail, and office facilities. TWS is part of HomeFront Brands, a platform company of emerging property service franchises. Explore the versatility of Temporary Wall Systems at https://tempwallsystems.com/.
About HomeFront Brands:
HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands — Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, BiltRite Home Inspections, Top Rail Fence and Mozzie Dome – to transform lives through franchise ownership.
For more information about HomeFront Brands’ current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit https://homefrontbrands.com/.
International Food and Beverage Industry Veterans Open Multi-Story Venue Complete with a Restaurant, Lounge, Speakeasy, and Rooftop
CHARLESTON, S.C. /PRNewswire/ — One of the Holy City’s largest dining and entertainment experiences, The Habit, opens its doors tonight in Historic Downtown Charleston. Located at 213 East Bay Street in the French Quarter neighborhood, The Habit is the first space of its kind to offer up several distinct experiences within the building’s 13,000 square feet, three floors, and rooftop lounge overlooking the Charleston Harbor.
The Habit offers a unique hybrid of dining and entertainment for locals and tourists alike with a mix of live music, dance parties, theme nights, burlesque performances, and comedy acts. The venue’s second floor VIP lounge, V’s, and the rooftop space are both available for private events and exclusive performances. The Habit will also host weekly theme nights to the tune of jazz, 80s, yacht rock, R&B, and other genres for every musical taste out there.
“Charleston is known around the world for its hospitality and as a mecca for food lovers everywhere,” said Michelle Van Jura, owner and partner, The Habit. “The one thing we really wanted to bring to our beloved city was a greater variety of entertainment and unique experiences, so we found the perfect location, curated fantastic art, glamorous decor, and hired some of the best talent to bring it all to life.”
The Habit brings 1920’s Art Deco charm and elegance to one of the country’s most-celebrated culinary destinations with a curated menu of local and regional ingredients prepared by Chef Matthew Greene. Each dish boasts inspiration from around the world to make it uniquely American with an international twist—from caviar on hashbrown bites and red curry wings, to lamb lollipops and a special selection of seasonal salads. The menu also leans heavily on small plates and shareable dishes so patrons can sample a spectrum of flavors as part of the overall experience.
“Coupled with a decadent atmosphere of warm lighting, rich leather, sumptuous velvet, and objects d’art, the space is an exquisite blend of Americana, European, and Asian aesthetics,” Van Jura continued. “The space is designed not only to provide a warm welcome for our guests but we also wanted everyone to step into an experience that combines sophistication, confidence, and comfort whether you’re there for a romantic dinner or weekend brunch with your friends—it’s something truly unique that can’t be found anywhere else in Charleston.”
Open seven days a week, The Habit will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day with brunch service on Saturday as well as Sunday. A late night menu will also be available on Friday and Saturday. V’s will have special shows and events every Friday and Saturday with tickets available on OpenTable, along with VIP options. For more information, upcoming events, and daily menus, please visit https://thehabitchs.com/.
About The Habit The concept for The Habit started over a decade ago when owner and partner Michelle Van Jura fell in love with Charleston, SC and eventually left New York City to make the Lowcountry her home. After spending 30+ years in public relations and running her own successful agency, she eventually met and began working with fellow partners Zach Dennis and Chef Matt Greene. The three realized they had a shared vision and within a couple of years, The Habit became a reality. With more than 50 years of combined hospitality experience, Zach Dennis and Matt Greene are widely regarded as some of the best talent in the business, having spent years honing and refining their craft in major cities like Toronto, Chicago, DC, and NYC. Prior to The Habit, Dennis and Greene worked for the Hall Management Group as well as some other fine dining establishments in Charleston. Follow The Habit on Instagram (@thehabitchs) for the latest updates, event info, and more.
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