profile series

o 44 Downtown rising o 52 the keys o 54 focal point This isn’t your average downtown. This isn’t a block or two of renovated ware- o 56 putting the green in greenville houses, pricey bistros, and contemporary art galleries. What Greenville, o 64 best of , has done to its downtown makes other cities green with envy o 70 history — think inventive restaurants, locally owned boutiques, a stellar arts scene, and a 30-acre park with pedestrian bridge and waterfall. (And that’s barely skimming the surface.) Located just two hours from and Charlotte, this is one cool city, with forward-thinking leaders and a clear-cut plan that has transformed downtown into the destination it is today.

Keys to the city of o o o photo by josh jones downtown sc Greenville

• 42 • • 43 • keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc

Greenville’s skyline You have time to ponder many things while companies doing business in Greenville know that against the Blue Ridge sitting in Atlanta traffi c. Things like, “What I don’t?” To learn what Greenville, South Carolina Mountains; free trolley on Main Street do Michelin North America, Milliken, General can do for the future of your business, visit Downtown Electric, BMW and the other 120 Fortune 500 www.ThriveDowntown.com or call 864.239.3735.

What’s the difference between RisingThe transformation continues Greenville and Atlanta? By lynn seldon We’ll give you a couple of hours

rances Jumansz F rances fish eye studios, to think about it.

xpect world-class cul- Performing Arts brought people ture, superb shopping, farther south. When local res- and a flavorful dining taurateur Carl Sobocinski opened scene on Main Street in Soby’s restaurant on Main in the downtownE Greenville, South Car- late ’90s, and the renovated Westin olina. How happenin’ is it? The Poinsett opened across the street American Planning Association in 2000, downtown Greenville be- named it one of the Top 10 Great came the place to see and be seen. Streets in America last year — a In the past decade, locally owned real coup when you consider that shops, bars, and restaurants have it’s gone from downtrodden to dis- filled in the gaps. Downtown’s tinguished in just 25 years. diminutive size (about 15 blocks) The transformation began with makes it easy to walk to most a strategic plan to create anchors hot spots, or take the free trolley and fill in the spaces between. The running along Main Street. opening of the Hyatt Regency in The Westin’s arrival (see p. 70) 1982 established a northern Main sparked a flurry of development Street anchor, and the 1990 open- in the city’s West End district at ing of The for the the southern end of Main Street.

Read this city profile, along with others, at usairwaysmag.com.

• 44 •

thrive.indd 1 2/2/10 3:46 PM keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc come. stay. shop. eat. play.

Local artists open their studios to the public during the weekend- discover greenville, sc... long Greenville Open Studios (left); outdoor dining on Main Street www.greenvillesc.gov is the cen- Four museums make up the terpiece of development here, with “It never ceases to amaze me campus at Heritage Green, an two amphitheaters featuring plen- arts complex: The Greenville ty of event space (and a full calen- how downtown has become a real County Museum of Art (home to dar) amid some 30 acres flanking the South’s most important col- lection of works by Andrew Wy- the . A curved pedes- destination.” Tyler Florence, Greenville native and Food Network star trian span called Liberty Bridge eth); The Museum and Gallery provides views of the park and wa- at Heritage Green (an outpost of terfalls, and a minor league base- The downtown transformation dent of Downtown Greenville ’s renowned ball team, the Greenville Drive (a continues: Clemson University Development Initiative, an orga- collection of Italian paintings); nod to local automotive companies moved its MBA program down- nization that works to bring busi- f o y s e t r u o c The Upcountry History Mu- like BMW and Michelin), plays at town last January into a building nesses downtown. “When you first seum (check out the impressive Fluor Field at the West End. A few overlooking the Reedy, Michelin set foot in the area, it’s shocking. oral history program); and the M blocks away lies RiverPlace, a clus- has a downtown storefront and a You wonder why you haven’t heard n a t i l o p o r t e recently opened Children’s Mu- ter of sleek condos, trendy shops development office, and BMW is of this amazing place before. So seum of the Upstate, where an (Plaza Suite), hip restaurants (The known for its community partici- cosmopolitan and chic.” innovative multistory climbing A Lazy Goat and High Cotton), art- pation and event sponsorship, such s t r structure draws rave reviews C ists’ galleries and studios, and a as the BMW Charity Pro-Am The Arts , l i c n u o from kids (and parents, too). recently opened Hampton Inn. (May 13–16). The celebrity golf A variety of cultural attractions Greenville is also home to four D “Our secret is attention to the tournament brings big names like add to downtown’s chic vibe. e l l i v n e e r G n w o t n w o of the region’s seven theaters: pedestrian experience — the scale Darius Rucker and Kevin Costner “One of the major factors in the Greenville Little Theatre, Cen- of the buildings, the mix of resi- to town and contributes to Upstate revitalization of downtown Green- tre Stage, the Warehouse The- dential and retail, and surprising charities. It’s this high level of cor- ville is the diversity and depth of atre, and South Carolina Chil- art features,” says Greenville May- porate support that allows down- the city’s outstanding arts com- dren’s Theatre. Big-name acts D or Knox White. “Place a beautiful town Greenville to thrive. munity,” says Alan Ethridge, exec- t n e m p o l e v e like Brad Paisley and Nickelback park with a dramatic waterfall and “My family chose to move to utive director of the Metropolitan fill seats at the Bi-Lo Center on

pedestrian suspension bridge in Greenville two years ago, and Arts Council, which estimates that I the northern edge of downtown. e v i t a i t i n the middle of it all and you have an the clincher was downtown,” says the arts have an annual economic Perhaps the No. 1 arts venue, urban space like none other.” Kym Petrie, executive vice presi- impact of nearly $200 million. the Peace Center hosts first-run

• 46 • • 47 • GE Energy

GE is planning for tomorrow. Where will you be?

When it comes to providing the The Peace Center for the Performing Arts essentials for change, you can count on GE Energy to be a part Broadway shows (Wicked just left The South Carolina Governor’s town, and Spring Awakening plays School for the Arts and Humani- of it. We’re helping to develop the this month), top musicians (Chris ties. This public residential high infrastructure of countries everywhere Botti, John Legend, and Yo-Yo Ma school overlooks Falls Park, and have performed here), and other attracts artists from across the by providing the essentials for energy, groups including the South Caro- state to study in one of five disci- oil and gas and water and process lina Children’s Theatre, two bal- plines (including creative writing let companies, and the Greenville and vis­ual arts). technologies. For 130 years, we’ve been at Symphony Orchestra, whose con- the forefront of innovation, but finding ductor and music director Edvard The Scene Tchivzhel first came to Greenville An increase in downtown liv- solutions to the world’s biggest problems has from Russia in 1991. “This com- ing in the late ’90s meant an never been more important than it is right now. Join us munity enthusiastically embraces increase in foot traffic — gone the arts,” Tchivzhel says. “There are the days when Main Street today and become an essential part of the solution. are so many creative people here.” turned into a ghost town after Emerging artists find a home at 5 p.m. Taryn Scher, a local public- Shopping Spree Stick close to Main Street to find down - town’s coolest shops. For baubles and beads, make your own necklaces at The Beaded Frog (beadedfrog.com); check out llyn strong for one-of-a-kind jewelry (llynstrong.com). Mast Gen- eral Store, an old-fashioned empo- rium, stocks everything from cast iron pans to camping gear (mastgeneral

store.com). Across the street, The owen riley, courtesy of the b The Barkery Bistro Barkery Bistro welcomes four-legged GE Energy Engineering Division, headquartered in Greenville, SC, is seeking experienced shoppers with tail-wagging treats toys (thelollipopshop.net). Need engineers for their wind and gas turbine product lines with the following expertise: (thebarkerybistro.com). Purchase new jeans? At Plaza Suite, check original artwork in the studios at Art out locally designed Beija Flor jeans, • Thermal Engineering • Mechanical Design • Aeromechanics Crossing at RiverPlace, where you can made with curve-friendly Brazilian • Controls and Simulation • Combustion • Materials also chat with the artists (artcrossing stretch denim (shopplazasuite.com). arkery b istro .org). For the kid in you — and the ones: Then drop those bags at Luna Rosa • Power Electronics • Heat Transfer • Advanced Manufacturing with you — The Lollipop Shop satisfies and refuel with a cone of homemade • Performance • Aerodynamics Engineers Getsweet in touch desires with with BV retro Krishnamurthy candy and or clickhazelnut to the gelato. on usairwaysmag — M. Linda .comLee For more information visit www.ge.com/careers. GE is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V.

• 48 •

ge.indd 1 1/25/10 5:08 PM

Crescent USAir Ad_outlines.indd 1 2/2/10 11:42 AM keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc

relations expert, moved to Green- light Movie series. If you love to rants landed on the downtown “The culinary history of the ville from New York three years eat — and who doesn’t? — there’s menu. Notable eateries include area is invariably rich, and a few ago. “This city has all the won- an extra helping of food and wine Larkin’s on the River (steak and pioneering restaurateurs have derful offerings of a major met- events, such as January’s fine- seafood); Devereaux’s (contempo- turned Greenville into a true culi- ropolitan region and none of the wine auction An Affair with Flair; rary American cuisine); American nary destination,” says Food Net- downsides that usually come with Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Grocery Restaurant (using local work star and Greenville native a major city,” Scher says. Nation (May 2); food/wine/music and organic ingredients); and Lib- Tyler Florence. “It never ceases to These offerings include a hip fest Euphoria (Sept. 24–26); and erty Tap Room and Grill (adjacent amaze me how downtown has be- live-music scene. Head to the St. Francis Fall for Greenville — to the baseball stadium). come a real destination.” Brown Street Club for live jazz A Taste of Our Town (Oct. 8–10). and blues nearly every night of The dining scene is more the week. At The Handlebar, than just impressive foodie fests. a variety of musicians take the Downtown’s culinary options have AS IF GREENVILLE WAS BUILT AROUND US. stage from Grammy winners to boomed in recent years, a complete local favorites. Enjoy dinner and shift from fast-food fixes to a large Hyatt Regency Greenville is ideally located in the heart of downtown, where a show at Smiley’s Acoustic Cafe, number of diverse restaurants and you’re seconds away from over 100 restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and entertainment venues. As Greenville’s largest hotel, we boast 328 guest rooms which hosts live music every chefs that rival those in major cit- and over 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. And, with wireless high- night except Sunday. ies. This tasty transformation can Airport travel made simple. speed Internet access in all areas of the hotel, Hyatt Regency Greenville is the Downtown is also the setting be traced to the 1997 opening of ideal choice for the business traveler and meetings of all sizes. For more for about 150 events every year, Soby’s, housed in a century-old information call 864.235.1234 or visit greenville.hyatt.com. including the Downtown Alive building on Main Street. Follow-

220 NORTH MAIN STREET, GREENVILLE, SC concert series and the Moon- ing Soby’s success, other restau-

Hyatt name, design, and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2010 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

REALTORS® Realtors

Your bridge to the Upstate

The USA Cycling Professional Championships return to Biker Town Greenville this September. he League of American Bicy- of the upcoming , clists awarded Greenville its a 13-mile bike trail that follows along Search available Upstate properties at Tprestigious Bicycle Friendly the Reedy River. Community award last fall, and A manufacturer of performance

www.MarchantCo.com C the city will hosts the annual USA asey Gi b son/ T cyclist clothing, Hincapie Sportswear Contact: Karen Mascaro Cycling Professional Champion- actively supports the cycling commun­ Relocation & Business ships (Sept. 18–19). ity. The company chose Greenville for

Development Director amarac P u b lications 864.527.4504 Greenville Hospital System its headquarters, and Hincapie Sports [email protected] counts itself among the “bicycle LLC manages cycling races throughout Welcome to a convenient, friendly, stress-free airport. Perfect for business friendly.” The healthcare system is the Southeast, including the Green- From downtown living to or leisure travelers. Greenville-Spartanburg International offering lake & mountain property the title sponsor for the champion- ville Downtown Cycling Classic and shorter lines, fewer delays and less hassle. ships and backed the development the Greenville Spring Training Series. gspAirport.com www.uscupstate.edu Search and Compare Fares. Book Flights, Hotel Rooms and Rental Cars. • 50 • • 51 • Azalea Hill Suites at Verdae Bonaventure Office Park at Verdae The Cascades at Verdae (864) 675-5797 ballardcompanies.com Leasing: (864) 627-8383 verdaeproperties.com Resort style retirement living: (864) 528-5501 thecascadesverdae.com

Theto the city of downtown keys greenville, sc “It is such fun to see the joy of visitors coming downtown for the first time, as well as the residents that regularly come to the heart of the city.” James Bourey, Greenville city manager

“Greenville boasts the “For our best of European master international planning in mixing urban uses of office, residential, customers, cultural, and fine-dining colleagues, [space].” and the almost Chris Stone, president, Greenville Convention and Visitors Bureau 8,000 Michelin “Downtown employees in Greenville the state, down- went from “There’s a synergy with town Greenville photo court the business owners that is a favored e good to great just works … it’s the execution sy o f e of a dream.” destination.” uphoria with Falls Dick Wilkerson, chairman and Edwin McCain, singer/songwriter president, Michelin North America Park.” and Greenville native, on the success of food, wine, and music fest, Euphoria Knox White, mayor Embassy Suites Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center (864) 676-9090 “Music, visual arts, theater … are an integral Live. Work. Play... redefined. Verdae offers modern living for all ages and stages of life. This 1,100-acre master planned development, situated in the heart of Greenville, is a village-style part of the downtown experience.” community where traditional neighborhoods, specialty shops, cafes, businesses, Hollingsworth Park at Verdae Alan Ethridge, executive director, Metropolitan Arts Council Classically styled homes from the $300s and outdoor recreation are entwined. The development’s plan respectfully (864) 329-8383 verdae.com integrates neighborhoods of varying housing types with specialty retail, hospitality, office/medical and an abundance of recreational features, including a golf resort and a 20-acre community park. Heading to Greenville? Visit peacecenter.org to see who’s performing while you’re in town. Sharing synergy and proximity to Greenville’s lively downtown, Verdae is the best place to live, work, play and retire. verdae.com • 52 •

verdae.indd 1 2/2/10 9:14 AM keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc focal point by martha-page althaus When Falls Park opened in 2004, most Greenville residents didn’t know there was a natural waterfall in the middle of downtown. “A concrete bridge was built on top of the falls,” says Greenville Mayor Knox White. “People who lived here all their lives had no idea we had this in the center of town.” Developing the park took about two years and included removing fisheye studios the concrete bridge and building the 355-foot-long, pedestrian-only Liberty Bridge. “The bridge ebbs like the Reedy River, and it doesn’t crowd the falls,” White says. “You always see people down here now. They love it.”

• 55 • keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc The Children’s Museum of the Upstate is a place of possibility where children and their grown-ups can explore, discover, Fluor (engineering, procurement imagine, pretend and and construction). Add a bustling downtown and major universities BE ANYTHING! ensuring a well-educated work- force, and you’ve got a solid busi- ness community that’s adapting to the new economic landscape. “We are doing as well, or bet- ter, than 90 percent of the cities I CAN BE around the country,” declares city manager James Bourey. He points to corporations such as Fluor ANYTHING! and GE that have held steady de- spite the downturn. (GE Energy’s Engineering Division world head- quarters is here, and the Green- ville plant is the world’s largest gas turbine manufacturing plant.) The support of local govern- ment, public/private partnerships, and a community-wide effort to advance education are behind the business community’s success, according to Ben Haskew, president and CEO of the Greater Greenville Chamber of Commerce. “I believe Putting the this community has a can-do spirit that can tackle any challenge or High-tech startups grow at opportunity,” Haskew says. the NEXT Innovation Center. Forbes recently named Green- ville one of the top five cities to reating a vibrant busi- weather the economic downturn, ness community, espe- and for good reason. According to cially during challeng- the South Carolina Department of ing economic times, Commerce, the entire Upstate has takesC more than just hard work — more foreign investment per capita it takes international flair. As the than any other region in the coun- Green center of economic development try, and more than 200 interna- in the South Carolina Upstate tional companies from 20 different region, Greenville once relied countries have operations or head- heavily on textiles. But now the quarters here, including BMW in Greenville eric peckman city is home to major corporate and its suppliers. Stroll down Main The Textile Capital of the World finds an international edge. denizens Michelin, BMW, GE, Street and you’ll find 20 restau- By Lydia Dishman Mitsubishi Polyester Film, and rants serving international cuisine, Downtown Greenville, SC 300 College Street (864) 223-7755 • 56 • • 57 • www.TCMGreenvilleSC.org keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc

Designed his own major in ecology and sustainable ded veelopment

Founder annd first executive director of the Indian Yoouth Climate NeN twork

Member of Enviroronnmental Actionn Group

Morris K. Udall Scchholarshih p award winner

Attended U.N. Climate Change Conffere ence in Copenhagen inn 2009

Pursuing a master’’s degreee in environmentaal managementn at thhe Schoolo of FoF reestryy and Environmn ental Studiees at Yale Greenville’s white-hot international action ’s LEED-certified Cliffs Cottage, attracts small-business home to the school’s Center for Sustainability (left); Clemson University’s International Center entrepreneurs. for Automotive Research and it’s not uncommon to hear After a single visit, he was sold, people. It’s the right place in the multiple languages, though Ger- and set up business in downtown’s country for growth.” man is prevalent thanks to BMW. historic Liberty Building. “My no- Bob Hughes, developer of the Sarafina Robinson ’10 Ashley Brown ’10 Corey Gheesling ’10 Being globally connected is tion that Greenville was a simple NEXT Innovation Center, is fu- Communication Studies major Biology major Sociology and history double major a must in today’s economy, and little Southern city was quickly eling that growth. “It’s all about Member of Heller Service Corps Greenville Memorial Hospital emergency room Southeastern Lacrosse Conference Rookie of the city’s white-hot international quashed by all the Europeans min- re-making Greenville,” Hughes volunteer the Year Director of Ladies of Distinction (Mentor program action attracts small-business gling downtown,” Wagner says. says. “We want to be the place for at-risk female high school students) President of Furman University Medical Mission C. Wright Mills Society member entrepreneurs. Take Steven Wag- “There was an air of momentum where everyone else wants to be.” From le f t: courtesy o f urman university, clemson university Organization (FUMMO) Bridges to a Brighter Future Summer Counselor Student teacher at Greenville High School ner, one of the newbies. Based in and progress.” It’s also the place to find tal- Organizer of FUMMO medical relief trip to Costa Seattle, the former Ford marketing ent. Local businesses engage the Communication Studies student department Rica and Nicaragua (May 2010) Resident assistant for freshman Engaged Living assistant residence hall manager was responsible for the Spirit and Talent county school district and higher Member of Alpha Epsilon Delta and Phi Beta Kappa Will study away in South Africa, Spring 2010 Greenville High JV Lacrosse coach Pa­cific Northwest. When he began What impressed Wagner most was education to glean a well-educated Will attend the University of Alabama School his own Internet software company, the collaborative spirit. Citing the workforce. Universities such as of Medicine Member of champion Daniel McBrayer United Intramural team Dealer Ignition, the Chicago na- support of the NEXT Innovation Furman, Clemson, Bob Jones, and tive chose to relocate to Greenville Center (a cutting-edge building University of South Carolina Up- — not Silicon Valley. A competi- that’s home to small, high-tech state offer quality higher educa- tive cyclist, Wagner was encour- businesses) and the Greenville tion. “I have been able to recruit aged by his teammates to explore Spartanburg Anderson (GSA) some great young minds from Greenville. “They all talked about Technology Council, Wagner Furman and Bob Jones Univer- the great downtown and mountains adds, “Here you have the oppor- sity,” Wagner says. nearby,” Wagner says. tunity to get in front of so many While Greenville is histori-

Furman University Admission Office 3300 Poinsett Highway | Greenville, SC 29613-5245 864.294.2034 | [email protected] Best in Biz: Check out Greenville’s rankings at thrivedowntown.com.

Furman is a highly selective liberal arts college in Greenville, South Carolina, that’s home to 2,600 students from 47 states and 47 countries • 58 • who are engaged in learning through research, internships, service and study away (and in classes with thought-provoking professors).

furman.indd 1 2/2/10 10:31 AM keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc

cally the “Textile Capital of the Knecht is continuing his course- students who find inspiration from deciding factor to move here,” says World,” today there’s a shift from work to earn a certificate in indus- the city’s cultural offerings, some Megan Riegel, Peace Center presi- manufacturing to automotive and trial electronics. of which are within walking dis- dent, citing its annual economic The recently renovated industrial engineering, according Clemson’s International Center tance, such as The Peace Center impact at $18.7 million. The cen- Carolina First Conven- to John Warner, founder of Inno- for Automotive Research brings ed- for the Performing Arts. ter is one of the most successful in tion Center Meeting Hub Venture, a Greenville conference ucation and economic development “People often say we are the the country because of its quality connecting global thought leaders, together through global corporate and variety of programming, from usiness travelers come in “For a destination of our size, our entrepreneurs, and major corpora- partnerships. Greenville’s interna- ballet theater to rock concerts. droves for meetings and events convention center offers an abnor- tions and universities. “We need to tional diversity and entrepreneurial Top Jobs Craig Brown, president and in Greenville. The city is strate- mal amount of convention and meet- B stop saying our labor is cheap and spirit inspire companies to locate principal owner of the Greenville gically located on the ing space,” says Todd Bertka, vice The 10 largest employers in start understanding that there are here, according to the center’s Drive minor-league baseball team, corridor known as “Charlanta,” half- president of sales for the Greenville Greenville: areas where we are among the best executive director Bob Geolas. compliments the city for having way between Charlotte and Atlanta, Convention and Visitors Bureau. 1. Greenville County Schools in the world,” Warner says. courtesy o f Greenville C “That is necessary to be globally the vision to develop the down- and it has its own airport, Greenville- Another boost for the city’s meet- 2. Greenville Hospital System Laid-off textile workers can competitive,” Geolas says. town’s West End for more than Spartanburg International Airport. ings industry: This spring, a new 3. Michelin North America Inc. find a bridge to a brighter future just the ballpark. “It’s become a The city is well-equipped to host Courtyard by Marriott opens down- 4. General Electric Co. at Greenville Technical College. Going Downtown place to live, work, and play,” says meetings and conventions for major town at the corner of Main and Broad 5. Fluor Corporation When Aaron Knecht lost his tex- Claude Lilly, dean of Clemson’s Brown, who lives in one of the companies. Its 400,000-square-foot streets, next to The Peace Center for 6. S.C. State Government tile job in 2004, he enrolled in College of Business and Behavior- 40 condominiums in the adjacent Carolina First Convention Center the Performing Arts. The hotel com- onvention & V isitors Bureau 7. Bon Secours St. Francis Tech’s HVAC program. “It was al Science, agrees. The university Field House, a mixed-use develop- (one of the largest in the U.S.) recent- plex will feature a high-end seafood Health System a great stepping stone; the teach- moved its MBA program down- ment. The city spent more than ly underwent a $22 million renova- grill by local restaurateur Rick Erwin. 8. Bob Jones University ers really challenged me,” Knecht town to a spacious building in Falls $6 million on new streetscaping tion, and most of the city’s 8,000-plus Just one more of the myriad reasons 9. Greenville County Government says. Now a refrigeration and Park last January. The new loca- and infrastructure adjacent to the hotel rooms are within a 15-minute for corporate planners to choose 10. Greenville Technical College air-conditioning technician at tion, Clemson at the Falls, has an stadium. Since opening in 2006, drive of the center. Greenville. Source: Greenville Area Development Corporation Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, enrollment of more than 200 MBA almost 50 new businesses have

There’s a reason This is whaT we call UPwaRD MOBiliTY. PEOPLE in GREENVILLE enjoy more than great weather and Southern hospitality.

Propel your career with the clemson MBa. Our downtown They also enjoy world-class entertainment from the best of Broadway to B.B. King. For 20 years, Greenville, S.C., location offers the expertise of one of the nation’s top the Peace Center for the Performing Arts has been the cultural heart of Greenville, SC, offering universities alongside some of the world’s most respected corporations. UNIVERSITY Or, soar to new heights through our Professional advancement and not just incredible performances, but a rich addition to our community’s quality of life. continuing education programs. Earn professional credits to advance www.clemson.edu/mba your career and take you where you want to go. www.clemson.edu/pace peacecenter.org keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc Building Bridges sprung up around the stadium, generating over $12.5 million in From Burbs to Links sales last year. hat if you could live Launched in 2008, Downtown where you play? Three Greenville Development Initia- One Neıghbor residential areas in tive (DGDI) attracts businesses to W Clubhouse at The Cliffs Greenville offer just that. dow ntow n’s of fice spaces. DGDI is a About 1,000 people call down- Gary Player course at The Cliffs at public/private partnership between town Greenville home, says Brad Hal- Mountain Park. Off the greens, hike the city, chamber, and Downtown ter, president of real-estate firm Cold- the communities’ private trails or take at a Time Owners’ Group (a group of office well Banker Caine. The area’s first a quick drive into town — both are property owners) to support the residential units came in 2002 with within 30 minutes of Greenville. economy in the urban core. It’s one 100 E. Court. Proof of downtown’s Play close to home in Verdae, a of the only economic development broad appeal: A new elementary planned community with a green twist. efforts of its kind in the U.S. school is set to open there this fall. Only five minutes from downtown, As executive vice president of If you want to live on the links, this development offers single-family Hosting student enrichment DGDI, Kym Petrie is no stranger check out The Cliffs. Ranked among homes and a retirement village built and business education programs to the effects of these visionary the ’ top 10 golf commu- around a town center that includes with local universities developments. Bringing in a steady nities by Travel and Leisure, this col- shops, restaurants, and medical and stream of executives to recruit new

lection of developments throughout office space. The highlight: 20-acre courtesy o f the cli ff s businesses, Petrie concludes, “They the Blue Ridge Mountains features Legacy Park, with trails, green spaces, come here and see good planning, championship-level courses. Take and plans for a dog park and shaded green building, a thriving economy, on Ben Wright’s only U.S. course amphitheater. and great quality of life. I almost at The Cliffs Valley or experience a ­—Marian Cowhig don’t have to sell it.”

May 13-16, 2010

presented by SYNNEX CORPORATION

Supporting numerous charities, including Hands on Greenville

A global leader in IT distribution and business process services, SYNNEX Corporation’s US Distribution Headquarters calls Greenville, SC “home.” From community involvement, to charitable activities, to local business and educational partnerships, SYNNEX is committed to making a difference where we live and work. We do business across the nation and around the world, but our heart never strays far from Greenville – our neighbors… our community… our hometown. The international award-winning Liberty Bridge in downtown Greenville–designed by architect, Miguel Rosales. Copyright 2010 SYNNEX Corporation. All rights reserved. www.synnex.com

synnex.indd 1 2/2/10 11:03 AM keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc Outstandingly best of greenville Christian Education By M. Linda Lee and Martha Williamson

Best Stroll Glowing handrails and footlights make Liberty Bridge ethereal Best Fest Artisphere showcases by moonlight — and lush gardens and rushing waterfalls make it refreshing local and national artists in a

by day. Spanning the Reedy River, Liberty Bridge gives visitors a bird’s- pho series of juried exhibitions for t eye view of the nearly 30-acre Falls Park on the Reedy. fallspark.com os (Clo c a variety of media, such as pho- tography, glass, metalworks, and kw i s e f r painting. Concerts, film screen-

i l dre n’s M u s eum of t h e Ups o m l e f t ): Josh j on s, Th Ch ings, and art-related activi- ties for children round out this top-ranked fest, held May 7–9. artisphere.us

Best Kids The Children’s Mu- seum of the Upstate fuses learn- ing and play in the middle of downtown Greenville. Kids can simulate flight into space, design their own Formula 1 racecar, or go exploring in the Kaleido- t

a scope Climber. This multistory te , gree nv i ll e c v b structure is the only one of its kind that makes climbers look as if they’re suspended in midair. tcmgreenvillesc.org

Best Hidden Gem It’s well Bob Jones University . . . worth seeking out the Bob Inspiring regenerated students to know, love and serve Jesus Christ Jones University Museum › Diverse academic programs › Highly qualified, caring faculty centered on a liberal arts core and Gallery tucked away › Fine arts tradition that stands out › Reputation for academic among Christian colleges on campus. Displayed in 27 excellence rooted in biblical truth › Emphasis on reaching others with galleries, the collection of sa- › Bible-based chapel programs the Gospel and opportunities for spiritual cred European art spotlights growth, character development › Online courses available at BJUOnline.com Italian masters from the 14th and service › Nearly 40 percent of student body to the 19th centuries, includ- with homeschool background ing Rubens and Tintoretto. bjumg.org Stands unequivocally on the absolute authority of the Bible. 800-BJ-AND-ME • www.bju.edu • Greenville SC 29614

BJU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, national origin, protected disability or veteran status. ©2010 Bob Jones University. All Rights Reserved. (7217) 01/10 keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc

Best Family Take the gang out to Fluor Field at the West End, home to the Greenville Best Hometown Hero Want Drive. The Class A affiliate of the more baseball? Near Fluor Field, Red Sox runs the bases on a mini replica of the Shoeless Joe Jackson Mu- Boston’s Fenway Park, complete with its own seum and Baseball Library pays 30-foot-high Green Monster in left field. homage to Greenville native greenvilledrive.com pho and baseball star Joe Jackson. t os ( c lo c The brick home where Jackson lived showcases memorabilia kw i s e f r from his career and America’s

o m t favorite pastime. shoelessjoe

op): c jackson.org o urte sy of gree nv i ll e dri v , cr Best Mice As a high-school senior, Greenville resident Jim Ryan set out to create a scaven- ger hunt for children downtown. Using Margaret Wise Brown’s book Goodnight Moon as inspira-

ossw i n d s g olf c tion, Ryan teamed up with local artist Zan Wells to sculpt Mice on Main. Nine tiny bronze mice make their homes on a nine-block o ur s e , i stretch of Main Street. The hunt begins with father mouse Mar- t o c

k pho vin perched on the outdoor foun-

t tain of the Hyatt Regency hotel. o (2) miceonmain.com

Best Brewery Boasting seasonal brews along with eight year- round favorites (try the flagship River Falls Red Ale), the Thom- as Creek Brewery furnishes frothy libations to local restau- rants and pubs like Barley’s Tap- room and the Blockhouse. The Best Golf A different famous architect (such as brewery is open for private tours Tom Fazio, Pete Dye, Rees Jones, and Arnold by appointment. Bottoms up! Palmer) designed each of the 18 holes at Cross- thomascreekbeer.com Winds Golf Club, making it one of the world’s most intriguing links. The par-3 course can be played in just two hours. crosswinds-golf.com

• 66 • keys to the city of downtown greenville, sc

We can’t pick just one! Here toes tossed in a citrus dressing. Feeling Euphoric are a few of our favorite places pomegranateonmain.com best bites to eat and drink downtown. oing into its fifth year this Sep- tember, Euphoria brings top Best Breakfast Start the day chefs (think Thomas Keller Best Fine Dining Downtown’s right at Mary Beth’s; try fluffy G and Guy Savoy), winemakers, and dining scene went upscale with lemon ricotta pancakes or lump- nationally known musicians to down- the addition of High Cotton, a crab eggs Benedict with a side of town Greenville. This three-day celebra- chic Charleston transplant that crisp applewood-smoked bacon. tion of food, wine, and music started impresses with Lowcountry cui- marybethsatmcbee.com after local restaurateur Carl Sobocinski sine and views of the Reedy River and Greenville-born singer/songwriter (mavericksouthernkitchens Best Coffee Shop Coffee Under- Edwin McCain hatched the idea to com- .com). Also along the river at The ground echoes the Beat Genera- pho bine the three disciplines in one event.

Lazy Goat, chef Vicky Moore fuses t tion with acoustic concerts and os (f r Euphoria’s music component differen- flavors of the Mediterranean in poetry readings held in its cozy

nson, h ig c nson, ph e n Sti o m l e f t ): Ste tiates it from other food and wine fests. her tapas offerings. (Esquire maga- underground digs on — where “In making food, as in writing songs, zine named Moore one of its four else? — Coffee Street. coffee the creator’s values, emotions, and ex- Breakout Chefs to Watch in 2009.) underground.biz perience become infused in the final thelazygoat.com product — and seemingly impossible profits go to charitable Upstate groups Best Wine Bar Northampton Trout at The Lazy Goat; combinations can turn out to be won- via Sobocinski and McCain’s charity, Best Outdoor Dining Pomegran- Wines and Wine Cafe bustles High Cotton interior (right) derful and compelling,” says McCain, Local Boys Do Good. Past recipients ate on Main boasts prime people- with oenophiles sampling wines who’s best-known for his smash hits “I’ll have included Special Olympics and o

watching on its patio and authen- tt by the glass or bottle from the on, eu pho ri a on, Be,” “I Could Not Ask for More,” and Hospice of the Upstate. September 24– tic Persian fare, including juicy 2,000-plus labels at this popu- “Solitude.” 26, euphoriagreenville.com kabobs and a refreshing Shirazi lar retail shop and wine bar. Best of all, 100 percent of Euphoria’s — M. Linda Lee salad with cucumbers and toma- northamptonwines.com

First opened in 1925, the Westin historically chic Poinsett sits in the heart of downtown Greenville, SC, and offers an experience like nowhere else. Located just steps from the more than 100 shops, restaurants and unique attractions that defi ne Greenville, it’s the city’s only four-diamond hotel and best of all, it’s a Westin. For the meeting that will always be remembered, for the wedding reception you’ve always dreamed of, and for the nights you’ll never forget: We invite you to be our guest. This is how it should feel.® Visit westinpoinsettgreenville.com or call 864.421.9700.

© 2010 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved. Westin is the registered trademark of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affi liates. 2/2/10 1:13 PM table 301.indd 1

courtesy of the westin poinsett hotel

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ant to to ­ant Get swept away by theby elegance of lobby, fullylobby, restored The Westin Poinsett’s to its 1920s grandeur. .com. .com/poinsett Most notably, you’ll experience all this in the - Pau Tim says off,” left we where right up picked “We A concierge since the 2000 reopening, Janice Smith enjoy enjoy a leisurely lunch at Spoonbread Restaurant, and in the evening, the lobby’s Piano Bar and Lounge is a relaxing spot for drinks. Poinsett’s original 1920s setting. Named one America, of HistorictheHotels property of glistens with the crystal chandeliers, intricate mosaic tile and terrazzo floors, marble stairways, and elaborate crown molding. Even the wooden dance floor in the GoldBallroom is just as was it in 1925. lus, sales and marketing director, adding that the hotel hosts more than weddings 70 got a ayear. “Everyone’s attend station gas the from this place, about story suchthe a fabric CEO. It’s our of community.” says even locals stay at the Westin during ends the week of big festivals or events. downtown,” Smith “They says, “in want the middle to of everything.” stay westin •

- - 70 • history By martha-pageBy althaus Read this city profile, along with others, at usairwaysmag keys to the city greenville, of to downtown keys sc he handsome brick building on Main StreetMain on buildingbrick handsome he thanopeningits more is From hotel: justa in and 1925, with its major renovation in 2000, The Westin Poinsett, Greenville, Fabric of the community of Greenville: Poinsett, Fabric The Westin Built in for 1925 a cool $1.5 million, the 100-room After decades of being synonymous with elegance, has played an important downtown. role hotel opened during the heyday of the textile industry. Greenville for statesmanNamed R. Poinsett (who Joel thebrought poinsettia plant to the from U.S. Mexico), the hotel was one of the South’s grandest. Big names checkedin,fromAmelia Earhart Corneliusto Vander

bilt III, and the hotel stayed afloat duringDepression by charging the a day. $3 Great the property underwent a $25 million 2000 makeover and reopened in as a Westin. it’s Today, the only AAA Four Diamond hotel in theinclude Upstate. signature Features Heavenly Beds, rooms, called Rooms, and Workout come with a treadmill some guest and — weights or just to head the fitnessThen center. T