Junk Removal in Kiawah Island, SC

Aaron Davis, former member of the 1994 National Championship Nebraska Football team and current business owner, consultant, peak performance coach and speaker, set the incredibly positive tone for the Refrigerated Foods Association’s Annual Conference & Exhibition this week. Davis brought tremendous energy and optimism, starting the event off with a powerful message focused on the importance of having a Champion Attitude no matter what your role or title is. He emphasized the importance of challenging the status quo and “protecting our peace” to make time for our families and loved ones. Davis shared that “pressure is a privilege,” and encouraged and inspired the audience to maintain a positive attitude for success and happiness.

Other presenters and topics included Jorge Hernandez, VP of Quality Assurance at The Wendy’s Company, who discussed Sustainability; the annual Technical Update by Doug Marshall, Chief Scientific Officer at Eurofins Microbiology Laboratories; Brian Antkowiak of Intralox North America who addressed the impact of conveyance on packaging line efficiency; Lynn Gravley, President and CEO of NT Logistics, who shared insights on transportation in the coming year; and Adam Brock of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin and Ranjeeta Wadhwani of Ornua Ingredients who discussed Cheese 101, providing a great overview of the product and how to select the right cheese for certain applications.

The Conference was held at the Sanctuary Resort in Kiawah Island, SC on February 26-March 1, 2023. In addition to the timely presentations, the Conference also included outstanding networking opportunities and social events, including a service project that provided toiletry kits for clients at Our Lady of Mercy. The annual Golf Tournament allowed avid players a chance to enjoy networking and beautiful weather at the resort’s premier course. Suppliers displayed their wares and presented money and time saving opportunities at the Exhibit Reception and during the One-on-One CEO Sessions. The closing banquet was particularly special, including awards and a live auction.

Scott Moffitt of Hans Kissle was elected as a new Board member, and Mark Rosenfield of Reser’s Fine Foods, William Bigelow of Blount Fine Foods, Janet Rowat Kraiss of The Suter Company, George Bradford of Mrs. Stratton’s Salads, and Lili Lawry of PSSI were re-elected to serve 3-year terms. RFA’s Executive Committee consists of President, Lauren Edmonds of St. Clair Foods; Vice President, Mark Rosenfield of Reser’s Fine Foods; Treasurer Tom Davis of Lakeview Farms; and Secretary William Bigelow of Blount Fine Foods.

Awards were announced at the Closing Banquet. Josh Knott, President of Knott’s Foods in Paris, TN, was given the Don Sircy Membership Award. This award, named after the founding member of the RFA, is granted annually to one member who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to expanding, promoting and supporting the Association and the industry. Knott’s Foods has been a member of the RFA since 2008, and Josh has served on the RFA Board of Directors since 2011. The Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Bill Schwartz, who has been involved in RFA since 2007 and has served as the group’s Technical Committee Chair for many years. Bill has served as a valuable food safety and regulatory resource for the membership for many years, and is highly respected in the industry and the Association.

For more information on the Refrigerated Foods Association visit the website at www.refrigeratedfoods.org or call the Association Headquarters at 678-426-8175.

While the real estate boom of 2021 and 2022 may be calming down, the effects of the pandemic-fueled buying frenzy have proven long-lasting in many parts of the country—in particular for second home and vacation markets that emerged as buyers sought more inventory and more reasonable pricing.

Once eclipsed by hot spots like Aspen, Colorado; Scottsdale, Arizona, or New York City, these rising markets have now grown to top a list of last year’s most popular vacation home destinations in the United States, according to data analyzed by consortium representative Pacaso.

Read on to find out what parts of the country made the cut.

Indian River County, Florida

It’s no surprise to find a coastal Florida region on the list. The area has long been one of the largest second-home markets in the country and continues to attract vacation home buyers who stay for the warm weather and breathtaking beaches. What is perhaps a bit more of a surprise is that Indian River County, along Florida’s Treasure Coast, outperformed more well-known communities, such as West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. However, with the area’s wealth of scenic natural beauty, it’s no mystery. A varying topography that includes ocean shoreline, lagoons, rivers and lakes means an abundance of waterfront properties.

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Nevada County, California

Traditionally a quieter resort region, a recent surge of new residents has transformed Nevada County in the Sierra Mountain Range into one of the world’s premier luxury ski destinations. Truckee, the county’s most populous town, which sits some 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe, has seen a rapid increase in full-time and part-time residents. In an effort to expand supply, the city has approved a number of new developments, including a complete renovation plan for the Truckee Railyard. The project will expand the historic downtown area with an additional 75 acres of restaurants, community spaces and housing. Wintertime in this corner of the state is a sportsman paradise with ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Warm summers make for perfect conditions for golfing, mountain biking and hiking.

Kaua’i County, Hawaii

No other state is perhaps more often associated with its vacation market than Hawaii. The collection of tropical islands, separated from the rest of the country by about 2,500 miles of ocean, make for a one-of-a-kind American destination. While the whole state offers a bounty of vacation properties, the island of Kaua’i came out on top as the most popular of the Hawaiian islands for second-home buyers. Once almost entirely rural, Kaua’i, for better or worse, has now caught the attention of mainland and foreign buyers who find the island’s raw, pastoral beauty and lack of commercial clutter a huge draw. Low inventory and high demand have kept prices in the area at record highs, with the top end of new luxury homes reaching into the tens of millions.

Cape May County, New Jersey

Thanks to its 30 miles of Atlantic beaches and relative proximity to major metropolises, Cape May County has long been one of the Northeast’s most visited locations. Tourism in the county accounts for some $6.6 billion in revenue, making it Cape May’s single largest industry. As such, the area also has a thriving second home market. In the summer, populations throughout the various towns, cities and boroughs that make up Cape May County grow dramatically, in some cases as high as 10 times the permanent population. Lovers of Victorian and Cape Cod architecture will find themselves right at home with luxury inventory largely consisting of stately seaside houses. Views of the ocean are a relatively common amenity at the higher end of the market.

Santa Fe County, New Mexico

As one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Santa Fe has attracted visitors from across the globe seeking a historical experience set against the backdrop of a scenic desert landscape. Those who fall in love with the New Mexico capital will find themselves in an increasingly competitive market. In the past five years, Santa Fe has seen its real estate market explode, with prices almost doubling and inventory plummeting. The city is often associated with its Pueblo Revival architecture, featuring adobe walls, flat roofs and stepped massing. Many new construction homes seek to maintain the traditional style while adding modern comforts and amenities. Apart from aesthetically pleasing homes and rich history, Santa Fe is also known as one of the world’s great art cities, with a concentration of galleries, installations and public art.

Charleston County, South Carolina

Charleston’s low-country allure has continued to place it at the top of many lists of best cities in the country. The South Carolina gem appeals to a wide variety of visitors—from history buffs to foodies to outdoor enthusiasts. Being carved out of rivers and sea means Charleston is rich in beach and riverfront properties, some of which are found on one of the city’s numerous islands. While Hilton Head Island, which lies just to the south, is often thought of as the premier South Carolina island destination, Charleston islands—such as Isle of Palms, Kiawah Island and Daniel Island—are starting to give it a run for its money. With this rise in popularity, Charleston’s islands are seeing a wave of new construction, including turnkey residential developments designed with second homeowners in mind.

Outer Banks is a Netflix series about teenagers and modern day treasure hunting on the coast of North Carolina, known as the Outer Banks or OBX. In the show, teens hunt for buried treasure that is believed to be linked to John B's father disappearing. The island is essentially split into two parts, Figure 8 and The Cut. John B and his friends are part of the group known as the Pogues who hail from The Cut, or the lower class on the islands. The Kooks are the wealthy upper class from the Figure 8 part of the island, and they are also in search of the treasure, which causes the two groups to clash in a very modern day West Side Story fashion.

Season 3 of Outer Banks just released in early January of this year and there is a fourth season confirmed for this favorite teen mystery series. Although the series in set in North Carolina, most, if not all, of the series was filmed in South Carolina. If you can't get enough of Outer Banks and want to immerse yourself fully into the show, take a look at some of the real life filming locations below.

RELATED: 'Outer Banks' Season 3 Cast & Characters Guide: Who's Returning And Who's New To The Netflix Hit

Shem Creek, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Majority of the boating and water scenes for Kildare Harbor were filmed in Shem Creek. Shem Creek is a South Carolina local favorite spot for hanging out by the marina, watching the sunset and enjoying different dining locations. Heyward's Seafood, owned by Pope's dad, was filmed inside the real restaurant of Geechie Seafood that sits in Shem Creek. The Wreck, owned by Kiara's family, was also filmed inside a Shem Creek local restaurant known as The Wreck Of Richard and Charlene.

The Kiawah Island Golf Resort

The Kiawah Island Golf Resort is located on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, which is just south of Charleston. The golf resort was used as the location for the Island Club, which is where the Kooks host the Midsummer Night Ball and tends to be the fanciest place to gather together and hang out. If you want to visit this location in real life, you can enjoy an oceanfront restaurant and many beachside activities.

Pitt Street, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Pitt Street, located in Mount Pleasant's Old Village District, is the location for many scenes in Outer Banks. Downtown Kildare uses Pitt Street as its backdrop. The Sheriff's Station is filmed in a local condominium building and the Kildare Island Surfboard Store was filmed inside The Green Shutter antique shop. Visiting Pitt Street means you can visit all the cute and quaint mom-and-pop shops and restaurants.

Lowndes Grove Estate, Charleston, South Carolina

Sarah Cameron's family estate can actually be seen by visiting the low country of Charleston. The Lowndes Grove is used primarily for weddings and events. Its 18th century architecture and art makes it a place of wonderment for anyone who visits and gets to experience the ambiance there for their events.

Creekside Lands Inn, Charleston, South Carolina

If you've wanted to stay in the hotel room that John B and Pope break into at the Summer Winds Motel, you can! Book room 229 at the Creekside Lands Inn in Charleston to see where that episode from Season 1was filmed.

Morris Island, South Carolina

One of the islands just below Charleston, Morris Island, was used to film the marches and shipwreck scenes from Outer Banks. Specifically, the Lighthouse Creek in Morris Island is where those scenes were filmed and the red and white lighthouse can even be spotted in the background of some of those scenes.

Morris Island Lighthouse and Hunting Island Lighthouse, South Carolina

After receiving some clues about the treasure, the Pogues visit the Redfield Lighthouse. The Redfield Lighthouse was filmed at both the Morris Island Lighthouse and the Hunting Island Lighthouse. The Hunting Island Lighthouse near Beaufort, South Carolina, is used as the interior for the Redfield Lighthouse, and the Morris Island Lighthouse is used as the exterior for the Outer Banks location.

Gaillard Center, Charleston, South Carolina

When John B and Sarah visit UNC at Chapel Hill, they are actually visiting the Gaillard Center of Charleston. The Gaillard Center hosts many performers, artists, scholars, and even the Charleston Symphony. While visiting UNC, John B and Sarah also stroll through a picturesque park that can be seen if you visit Washington Square. Washington Square is just a short four-minute ride around the corner from the Gaillard Center.

Bathsheba Beach, Barbados

The iconic and scenic rocky beach from Season 2 when the Pogues plan to rescue Sarah from her family was filmed in Barbados. The teens infiltrate the ship and all eventually jump ship and swim to the nearest island to be free of Sarah's family. Bathsheba Beach is known for its unique rock formations and eventually becomes known as Poguelandia in Season 3.

Welchman Hall Gully, Barbados

In Season 3 when the gang travels to El Dorado and through the South American jungle, the stumble upon the El Dorado cave. While looking like it's filmed in South America, this cave was actually filmed in Barbados. The Welchman Hall Gully is a tropical park that is open to the public and has scenic hiking trails and cave tours.

The teens of Outer Banks are either running from the authorities or frolicking in the sea, so where is the Netflix show actually set? From the beach to the famous lighthouse, HITC identifies the hotspots.

The hit Netflix series follows The Pogues, a group of rebellious teens who are eager to uncover a valuable treasure. Mixed with adventure, romance, and friendship, no wonder Outer Banks is a fan-favorite.

The gang is led by John B (Chase Stokes), who falls in love with Sarah (Madelyn Cline), a Kook. Their other female member is another reckless Kook: Kiara, who is portrayed by Madison Bailey.

They are not complete without the brains of the operation, Pope (Jonathan Daviss), and John B’s BFF, JJ (Rudy Pankow).

Fans are captured by their spontaneous and unrealistic antics, but after all, it’s an adventure in the comfort of their home. But if you want to live the Outer Banks life, here’s exactly where to go.

Where is Outer Banks set?

The series is set in North Carolina, but don’t attempt to visit the state for photo opportunities because none of the filming locations are actually there.

Yes, it’s all a lie, but the good news is that Netflix hasn’t moved too far away: the cast film in the neighboring state of South Carolina, specifically, Charleston.

Filming locations of Outer Banks, including the beach and lighthouse

If the Pogues are ever on their dingy boat, chances are they are filming at Mount Pleasant’s Shem Creek. This spot is used as the entrance to Kildare Harbor and it is near the location of Heyward’s Seafood and Kiara’s family restaurant, The Wreck.

Speaking of Kiara’s family business, the real seafood restaurant is similarly called The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene.

Viewers were first introduced to Redfield Lighthouse in season 1 episode 2. The real deal is Hunting Island Lighthouse, so the nearby beach is Hunting Island State Park Beach.

Another lighthouse frequently used is Morris Island Lighthouse, which stands off Morris Island and Folly Beach. Constructed in the 19th century, it is the tallest lighthouse in South Carolina.

In season 1 episode 5, the gang dressed to nines to attend a midsummer’s party, which is the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. The exact address of the five-star hotel is 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive, Kiawah Island. It is the next island from Folly Beach.

Sarah’s elegant family mansion in reality is Lowndes Grove, a wedding venue. Located at 266 Margaret Street, it was built around 1786.

Why isn’t Outer Banks filmed in North Carolina?

The director’s decision to film in South Carolina reportedly boiled down to North Carolina’s anti-LGBTQ House Bill 2, which required transgender people to use public bathrooms for the sex they were assigned at birth.

It was passed in March 2016 by governor Pat McCrory but was partially repealed one year later by his successor, Roy Cooper.

The co-creator Jonas Pate envisioned filming in Wilmington but switched to Charleston after agreeing with Netflix’s inclusivity decisions, reports Star News Online. The city is known for its bustling atmosphere and home to the wealthy – as seen in Southern Charm – but since Outer Banks is a fictional world, directors were able to handpick ideal locations to create their vision.

In other news, Do John B and Sarah break up or stay together in Outer Banks season 3?

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. —

President Joe Biden arrived in South Carolina on Wednesday to begin what is expected to be at least a seven-day vacation with members of his family.

The first couple was planning to be in Kiawah Island, noted for its private beach and golf resort, through Tuesday, according to Federal Aviation Administration advisories.

The White House did not respond to requests to provide details on Biden’s vacation schedule, activities or when he planned to return to Washington. The president will stay at a friend’s home on the island that the family has used for previous visits, according to a White House official.

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden to visit Kiawah Island this week

Biden, accompanied by first lady Jill Biden, departed the White House by motorcade to Joint Base Andrews outside the capital, where Air Force One was on hand to take them to Joint Base Charleston. Biden was dropped off at a private home in a gated community alongside a golf course on the island.

Biden was joined on Air Force One by his son, Hunter Biden, daughter-in-law Melissa Cohen and grandson Beau.

Summer vacations are a presidential tradition. George W. Bush often spent August clearing brush in the 100-degree heat that baked his central Texas ranch. Barack Obama worked on his golf game on the Massachusetts island of Martha’s Vineyard. Donald Trump spent time at his home on his private golf club in central New Jersey.

The White House in the past has emphasized that the president is never truly free from the job’s responsibilities — and that he’ll continue to consult with aides and take his daily national security briefing regardless of his location.

And at times, presidents have had to make legacy-defining decisions while on vacation, including Bush’s response to Hurricane Katrina flooding New Orleans in 2005. Bill Clinton ordered airstrikes against al-Qaida terrorists from Martha’s Vineyard in response to the bombings of U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. And Bush’s father, President George H.W. Bush, planned the U.S. response to Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait in 1990 from his family’s oceanfront compound in Kennebunkport, Maine.