There's something inherently heart-warming about dogs. When trained and cared for properly by a family or an individual, they can bring endless amounts of joy and happiness into your life. They can make you feel better when you're sad and love you without judgment - something that's hard to say for many humans in today's world.
While dogs are called "man's best friend" for their loyalty and companionship, they're still animals that can react aggressively or instinctively in certain situations. Unfortunately, dog bites can result in serious injuries that can be traumatic for victims in South Carolina. From disfigurement and disability to scarring and infection, dog bites can cause devastating harm, including broken bones, lacerations, and even death. If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in South Carolina, it's important to explore your legal options.
Under South Carolina law, dog owners are accountable for their pets' actions, regardless of the animal's history. Unless the owner can prove the dog was provoked, they must take responsibility for any injuries their pet causes. The financial costs of a dog bite can be overwhelming, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Dog bites are serious and life-changing on many levels. As such, those responsible should be held accountable according to South Carolina law. That's when retaining a seasoned dog bite attorney in Greer, SC, starts to make a lot of sense.
Fortunately, every dog bite attorney at Lauren Taylor Law is experienced in handling dog bite cases in the Palmetto State and is ready to help guide you through the legal process of obtaining compensation.
Did you know that, on any given day, almost 1,000 victims in America are taken to the ER and treated for dog bites? Perhaps more frightening than that statistic is that South Carolina ranks in the top 10 states for dog attacks resulting in death. In fact, in 2021 alone, 1/3 of all homeowner liability claim payouts were from dog-related injuries. Given those startling numbers, you may be wondering what the State of South Carolina does for victims of dog bites.
In South Carolina, if you are the victim of a dog attack, the owner or handler may be held responsible for your injuries. However, this liability only applies if three specific conditions exist:
1. The injuries you sustained were caused by the dog in question.
2. When the dog attacked you, you weren't trespassing on someone's land.
3. You didn't do anything to provoke the dog into attacking you.
To successfully navigate a dog bite liability case, it's important to be aware of how insurance companies may try to avoid responsibility by focusing on certain conditions of the law. For instance, if you trespassed on the dog owner's property or provoked the dog into attacking you, the owner may not be held liable. However, with the guidance of an experienced dog bite attorney in Greer, SC, who understands the tactics of insurance companies, you can confidently fight for your rights and receive the compensation you deserve.
South Carolina has a dog bite statute that follows a strict liability rule, which applies when someone is attacked or bitten and injured for the first time by a dog. In South Carolina, the strict liability rule holds dog owners accountable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the owners were not directly at fault. This means that victims of dog attacks can seek compensation for their injuries without having to prove the dog's history of aggression or the owner's failure to control the animal.
One aspect of the law that many dog bite victims are unaware of is that dangerous animals must be registered. As per South Carolina law (Section 47-3-760), any dog that is deemed a "dangerous animal" due to its history of attacks or tendency to attack must be registered and kept confined by its owner. If the owner fails to register their animal or keep them confined, they can be held accountable.
Speaking of dangerous animals, there is legislation in South Carolina that relates specifically to certain dog breeds. In order to prevent dog attacks, breed-specific legislation has been implemented in certain areas of South Carolina. This legislation limits the public's exposure to and regulates ownership of breeds identified as dangerous. Currently, pit bulls are presumed to be dangerous in several municipalities, while Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, and chow chows are considered vicious in one municipality.
Now that you know a little more about dog bite laws in South Carolina, you're probably wondering what types of compensation are available for victims. Determining the average settlement amount for dog bite cases can be challenging due to the confidential nature of legal settlements.
However, there are some statistics that can provide insight into potential values. For instance, in 2019, State Farm's Insurance Information Institute reported over 300 dog-bite-related insurance claims in South Carolina. The cost per claim ranged between just under $32,000 and just under $56,000. While this information can serve as a starting point, it's important to remember that each dog bite case is unique, and as such, these averages won't be accurate for your dog bite claim. That's why it's so crucial to contact a dog bite attorney in Charleston, SC, soon after you're injured.
In South Carolina, a few categories of damage have been recognized in personal injury cases, and those include dog bites. Typically, damages relating to dog bites focus either on deterring dog owners or helping victims and are classified as Compensatory or Punitive, respectively.
Compensatory damages, also known as actual damages, are used to help the injured party return to their original state. In essence, the purpose of compensatory damages is to return the injured party to the position they were in before the dog bite incident took place. In South Carolina, dog bite victims are entitled to recover two types of compensatory damages: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Dog Bite Damages Explained
When seeking compensation for dog bite injuries, it is important to consider economic damages, which provide objective monetary losses for victims. Often, these damages can cover expenses such as medical bills, prescription medications, physical therapy, counseling sessions, and lost income. With lost income damages, victims can recover the amount of money they would have earned had they not missed work due to their injury.
Non-Economic Dog Bite Damages Explained
Getting damages for a measurable dollar amount is great, but what about losses that can't be measured objectively? We're talking about subjective losses like pain and suffering, mental distress, and diminished quality of life. Although these losses can't be accurately measured, they can still be awarded by the court. However, proving non-economic damages can be challenging in South Carolina. That's why having a dog bite attorney in Greer, SC, is so valuable for dog bite victims and their families.
When seeking damages for a dog bite injury or attack, compensatory damages aim to restore the plaintiff's losses, while punitive damages aim to hold the defendant accountable for their misconduct. Punitive damages serve as a deterrent to both the defendant and others, punishing them for their actions and discouraging similar behavior in the future. However, punitive damages are not viable in cases where the defendant's actions were merely negligent.
Instead, South Carolina law mandates proof of willful, wanton, or reckless behavior. Essentially, the defendant must have intentionally caused harm or acted without regard for the consequences of the dog bite or attack. Proving this type of intent can be very difficult, especially in South Carolina, which is why you should consult with a dog bite lawyer. Your attorney from Lauren Taylor Law will help determine which types of damages are viable in your case and fight relentlessly to get you the compensation you're owed.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our dog bite lawyers are often asked to give an approximate value of an average dog bite case in South Carolina. That's easier said than done, as the circumstances of each dog bite case are different. However, there are components that can affect the amount of compensation you or your loved one receives after being injured.
Dog bites are no laughing matter, especially when they're serious and result in injuries. As such, many dog bite victims have no choice but to take time off of work to heal, both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, doing so often means missing out on raises, bonuses, promotions, and more. In such an event, victims can often claim both past wages lost as well as the value of the lost raise or promotion.
In dog bite cases, medical treatment costs can be a significant factor. While a bite from a small dog like a chihuahua may require minimal care, larger dogs can cause serious injuries that result in debilitating physical and psychological effects. The severity of the injuries can lead to higher medical bills and, ultimately, a higher settlement value.
While property damage may not occur frequently in South Carolina dog bite cases, it can still pose a significant concern. In some instances, victims' phones, glasses, or clothing may sustain damage from an attack. Additionally, wild dogs may cause harm to jewelry, furniture, and even vehicles that you use for work.
To receive proper compensation for what you've had to endure, it's essential that you work with a skilled dog bite lawyer. At Lauren Taylor Law, our legal team fully understands what it takes to win your dog bite case and will work tirelessly to gather favorable evidence on your behalf. Our attorneys are also highly skilled negotiators who will aggressively defend your rights to help ensure you receive the maximum settlement amount possible.
Unlike some dog bite law firms, we take a personalized approach to each case we handle, diving deep into the unique details of your situation so you receive the best possible outcome, allowing you to move forward in life with your head held high.
Dog attacks in South Carolina can be extremely frightening, and the aftermath can be even worse. The scars and emotional trauma that victims can experience can last a lifetime, particularly when the victim is a child. Fortunately, South Carolina law provides the opportunity for dog bite settlements to be paid by the dog's owners or keepers.
However, the process can be difficult, with the first challenge being determining if there is insurance coverage available. While the owner's homeowner's insurance policy is often the source of coverage, securing a fair settlement is not always straightforward. That's where hiring a dog bite lawyer as your advocate can be a life-changing choice. Here are just a few of the biggest reasons why you should consult with a dog bite law firm in South Carolina
It's important to realize that insurance companies, despite their friendly commercials, are ultimately focused on minimizing their own costs. Their claim adjusters are skilled professionals who are trained to resolve claims in the company's favor, and they also have access to a long list of legal resources. Having a dog bite lawyer on your side helps even the playing field. That's especially true at Lauren Taylor Law, where our dog bite attorneys fight fearlessly against insurance corporations on behalf of our clients.
Determining the value of a dog attack case is a multifaceted process that takes into consideration numerous factors. Key variables that can substantially impact the value of a case include the possibility of future plastic surgery to address scarring, emotional distress, and the potential for punitive damages.
When it comes to negotiating a settlement with an insurance company, it can be a confusing and overwhelming experience for most individuals. Even seasoned negotiators can feel out of their element when it comes to dog bite cases. In the face of low settlement offers and unfounded reasoning, it's important to remain level-headed and not let emotions cloud your judgment.
As the victim, keeping calm in the face of an outrageous settlement offer is easier said than done. It's natural to feel emotionally invested, but it's crucial to maintain objectivity when making decisions that could have lifelong implications. Fortunately, an experienced dog bite attorney in Greer, SC, can take the lead in these intense negotiations. In doing so, you have a better chance of getting a fair settlement while you focus on recovering and spending time with your family.
In order to secure a favorable settlement for your dog bite case, medical evidence must be handled and presented correctly. The truth is that medical evidence can have a significant impact on the amount of compensation you receive. As such, investigating and presenting future medical requirements in the correct manner is crucial. Many dog bite victims undergo future surgeries and ongoing counseling for the rest of their lives. A skilled dog bite lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law can help you secure a settlement that adequately covers these expenses and more.
If you are looking for a knowledgeable yet fearless dog bite attorney in South Carolina, Lauren Taylor Law is the firm you can trust. Our team of dog bite injury lawyers can help with every aspect of your dog bite case, from evidence gathering and witness interviews to negotiations and everything in between. Put simply, our dog bite attorneys aren't afraid to fight for the compensation you deserve, no matter how much pushback the insurance company gives you.
The damage a dog bite causes can result in a horrific experience no person should go through alone. We can make the recovery process easier for you and give you the attention and support you need to pick up the pieces. If you're ready to reclaim a normal life, we're here to help. It all begins with your initial consultation at our law offices in South Carolina. Contact Lauren Taylor Law today to get started today.
Dennis Carroll Ballentine, age 79, of Taylors, SC, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026.Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Ena Trussell Ballentine and the late Bernard Carroll Ballentine of Columbia, SC.Dennis graduated from A. C. Flora High School in Columbia and received his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina. He served in Vietnam with the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta where he received two Bronze Stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. He received an honorab...
Dennis Carroll Ballentine, age 79, of Taylors, SC, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026.
Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Ena Trussell Ballentine and the late Bernard Carroll Ballentine of Columbia, SC.
Dennis graduated from A. C. Flora High School in Columbia and received his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina. He served in Vietnam with the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta where he received two Bronze Stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. He received an honorable discharge after serving for four years with the United States Navy and later received the Quilt of Valor. He was a certified public accountant with S.D. Leidesdorf National CPA firm and then became Vice President of Finance with Hewitt Coleman and Associates. Later he owned his own CPA practice, Clarke and Ballentine, LLC, later renamed Ballentine and Hodges, LLC, before retiring in 2013. Since 1973 he was an active member of Taylors First Baptist Church, part of the church's security team, and an usher. He also served in various church ministries: he was a coach for a boys' basketball team, Royal Ambassador leader, marriage small group facilitator, Intercessory Prayer member, and Finance Committee member. He served on the Board for the Taylors Free Medical Clinic, served on the Board of the Paraclete Foundation, the Greenville Estate Planning Council, and the Finance Committee at the Poinsett Club. He supported World Vision and the North Greenville University Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund and served on the board of directors of the Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund. He also held membership in numerous professional and civic organizations.
He was predeceased by his brother, Doug Ballentine of Lilburn, GA.
Surviving are his wife of 56 years Mitsy Winburn Ballentine, of the home; his son, Representative Nathan Ballentine of Chapin, SC; his two precious grandchildren, JC and Emma of Chapin, SC; sister-in-law, Gail Ballentine of Auburn, GA; brother-in-law, John (Susan) Winburn of Greer, SC; brother-in-law, Rev. Bob (Kathy) Clarke of Alpharetta, GA; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
The family will receive friends in the Welcome Center at the church at 1:00 p.m. prior to the services. Services will be at 2 p.m. on March 3, 2026, at Taylors First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made to Taylors First Baptist Church, 200 W. Main Street, Taylors, SC 29687, Taylors Free Medical Clinic, 400 W. Main Street, Taylors, SC 29687, or North Greenville University Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund, North Greenville University, P.O. Box 1892, Tigerville, South Carolina 29688.
Mackey Mortuary will be handling the arrangements.
DMA Industries opened a new 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility in Greer, SC. The company said this strengthens its distribution and operational capabilities within South Carolina’s automotive corridor.According to DMA, the expansion supports faster speed-to-market and improved service performance for customers across the North American automotive aftermarket.Strategic Location and Trade AccessThe new facility is located less than four miles from the Inland Port of Greer, providing access to international shipping lanes...
DMA Industries opened a new 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility in Greer, SC. The company said this strengthens its distribution and operational capabilities within South Carolina’s automotive corridor.
According to DMA, the expansion supports faster speed-to-market and improved service performance for customers across the North American automotive aftermarket.
The new facility is located less than four miles from the Inland Port of Greer, providing access to international shipping lanes and major domestic trucking terminals. DMA said the site will operate as a Foreign Trade Zone facility and is C-TPAT compliant, supporting secure and efficient global trade operations.
According to the company, the Greer location enhances inbound and outbound logistics flexibility while supporting continued growth in regional distribution capacity.
DMA said the new facility will integrate several advanced systems to improve operational efficiency and accuracy. These include ultra-wideband inventory control tracking, camera-based visualization for put-away tracking, and an upgraded AI-supported proprietary warehouse management system.
“These advancements will provide service efficiencies while ensuring the highest levels of picking accuracy and on-time delivery,” said John Treece, chief executive officer of DMA Industries.
“This facility represents a pivotal step forward in our mission to be the most reliable partner in the automotive aftermarket,” Treece said. “By investing in the Greer region, we are not just increasing our square footage, we are improving our logistical speed-to-market and service execution.”
DMA Industries is headquartered in Loris and operates five additional distribution centers in the state. The company said the Greer expansion continues its long-term investment in South Carolina and supports economic growth in the region.
“With this infrastructure in place, DMA is uniquely positioned to scale operations rapidly and increase efficiency while maintaining the service quality our customers expect,” said Fred Snow, president and chief operating officer.
GREER, S.C., January 31, 2026 (Newswire.com) - With Greer home prices selling for a median of $332,500 and homes averaging 72 days on market in the latest reported month, sellers are feeling the cost of mispricing while buyers are feeling the cost of hesitation - conditions that continue to spotlight LeAnne Carswell as the for clients who want a clear plan, strong execution, and fewer surprises from contract to closing. Buying or selling in Greer, SC? Call LeAnne Carswell at Expert Real Estate Team on (864) 895-979...
GREER, S.C., January 31, 2026 (Newswire.com) - With Greer home prices selling for a median of $332,500 and homes averaging 72 days on market in the latest reported month, sellers are feeling the cost of mispricing while buyers are feeling the cost of hesitation - conditions that continue to spotlight LeAnne Carswell as the for clients who want a clear plan, strong execution, and fewer surprises from contract to closing. Buying or selling in Greer, SC? Call LeAnne Carswell at Expert Real Estate Team on (864) 895-9791.
Why Is LeAnne Carswell the Best Realtor in Greer, SC?
Greer isn't a "set it and forget it" market-buyers compare options fast, and sellers don't get many chances to make a first impression. Carswell's edge is a process built around certainty: clear pricing strategy, listing prep that targets buyer objections, and negotiation that stays calm when the deal gets complicated.
As Broker and Owner of the Expert Real Estate Team, she's known locally for combining deep Upstate knowledge with a practical, systems-driven approach-especially for clients who want strong guidance without the pressure tactics. "I'd rather we do the prep upfront and feel confident than rush and pay for it later," says Carswell.
What Is LeAnne Carswell's Experience in Greer?
Carswell leads the Expert Real Estate Team from its Greer headquarters, serving clients throughout the Upstate with a focus on residential listings, new construction, luxury properties, and senior life transitions as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES). Her team's footprint spans Greer and surrounding markets including Greenville, Spartanburg, Taylors, Lyman, Travelers Rest, and Landrum-often supporting clients who need both local nuance and steady transaction management.
Experience proof points:
What Do the Greer Market Numbers Say Right Now?
Greer's most recent market snapshot shows a median sale price of $332,500 with homes selling after an average of 72 days on market and 76 homes sold in the latest reported month. The sale-to-list price was 97.9%, with 14.5% of homes selling above list price and 28.5% showing price drops.
For sellers, the combination of price drops and below-list sale-to-list ratios is a clear signal: preparation and pricing discipline matter, and overreaching can create costly time on market. For buyers, a meaningful share of price drops can open doors-but only when your financing, timing, and inspection strategy are ready to move quickly. Learn what working with the best Greer real estate agent looks like when leverage, timing, and terms start to matter.
Who Are LeAnne Carswell and Expert Real Estate Team?
LeAnne Carswell is the Broker and Owner of the Expert Real Estate Team, headquartered in Greer and serving the Upstate across Greenville and Spartanburg-area markets with expertise in residential listings, new construction, luxury properties, and senior life transitions. With 2,200+ career transactions and more than $150 million in career volume, her team combines local market authority with process-driven execution - learn more about working with the for buying, selling, or a timing strategy.
Media Contact:LeAnne Carswell, Broker and Owner, Expert Real Estate Team
SOURCE: Expert Real Estate Team
Source: Expert Real Estate Team
GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Greenville County Planning Commission voted 8-1 Tuesday night to deny plans for a controversial Greer subdivision that has faced opposition from neighbors for years.The commission rejected the latest plans for the Bellewyn subdivision on South Batesville Road, saying the proposal does not prioritize open space as required under county rules.Under county regulations, developers must set aside a portion of land to remain undeveloped to help preserve natural areas and manage growth....
GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The Greenville County Planning Commission voted 8-1 Tuesday night to deny plans for a controversial Greer subdivision that has faced opposition from neighbors for years.
The commission rejected the latest plans for the Bellewyn subdivision on South Batesville Road, saying the proposal does not prioritize open space as required under county rules.
Under county regulations, developers must set aside a portion of land to remain undeveloped to help preserve natural areas and manage growth.
Bill Johnson, a Sugar Creek resident who has opposed the project since 2024, said the land is an old pasture that holds a special significance for residents.
“We’ve lived in our home in Sugar Creek for 40 years. This pasture is important to us,” Johnson said.
Johnson said the plan is out of character with surrounding communities and worries roads won’t be able to handle the extra traffic.
“We just saw this as taking what was essentially a cow pasture--19 acres of natural area--and just jamming 72 units into it,” Johnson said.
The commission denied plans in 2024 over density concerns. At the time, Hartness Development requested 72 lots, just under four homes per acre. Commissioners approved new plans a year later with conditions that emphasized neighborhood concerns, including open space requirements.
The new plan proposes using a thin border as open space. A speaker reading a statement on behalf of the developer said larger storm water ponds are necessary and should also count as open space.
“We were advised by the county’s attorney that the planning commission does not have jurisdiction over stormwater design matters,” the developer’s representative said.
Planning Commission Chairman Steven Bichel disagrees.
“Stormwater isn’t our purview, but if you dig a big hole in the middle of open space, that’s our purview,” Bichel said.
Developers could return with new plans. Johnson said he would support a proposal that reduces the current density.
“I’m hoping that it won’t be going forward. But, let’s see what happens,” Johnson said.
Residents said they did not see the developer’s changes until Tuesday. They also said no public hearing signs were posted.
The planning commission said that did not happen because changes came from planning staff, which does not require the same process. One commissioner said they will look into changing that requirement.
The debate over the Bellewyn subdivision highlights a broader issue in Greenville County: open space. The county has no single standard for how developers must preserve open land—requirements vary by zoning and development type. Guidelines are also vague when it comes to classifying stormwater ponds as open space.
Last year, Greenville County Council placed a moratorium on cluster housing and began meeting with residents and developers to gather feedback and suggestions. The county is actively studying the issue and released an open space plan last June.
During a council meeting earlier this month, leaders said they plan to unveil a more detailed open space plan in February.
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The South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2026 have something going on in Myrtle Beach, Greer and Charleston — enough so that the governor has chosen them to represent the state.Gov. Henry McMaster joined Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers and Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Director Duane Parrish to announce the chefs who will represent the culinary ambitions and accomplishments of the Palmetto State’s food scene.They are Jordan Heyd, owner and executive chef of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach...
The South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2026 have something going on in Myrtle Beach, Greer and Charleston — enough so that the governor has chosen them to represent the state.
Gov. Henry McMaster joined Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers and Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Director Duane Parrish to announce the chefs who will represent the culinary ambitions and accomplishments of the Palmetto State’s food scene.
They are Jordan Heyd, owner and executive chef of Lekker Eats in Myrtle Beach; James London, owner and chef of Chubby Fish and Seahorse in Charleston; and Guichard Ulysse, chef and owner of House 509 Bistro & Wine in Greer.
Chef Ambassadors represent the state through food festivals and other promotional opportunities, sharing South Carolina’s culinary traditions, agricultural heritage and undiscovered places, according to a news release. They support the state’s farmers by using Certified South Carolina produce, meats, dairy, seafood and other farm-fresh foods.
According to her bio provided by Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Chef Heyd was a local who began her culinary journey on private yachts, where she gained global food experience and developed a passion for international, healthy dishes. She trained formally in South Africa at a culinary school in Cape Town and became a yacht chef. COVID nudged her back to South Carolina, where she started a small business making prepared meals. That grew into Lekker Eats, a scratch kitchen, market and bar built on her “eat good, feel good” philosophy.
Charleston native Chef London discovered his passion for fishing and food at an early age, starting his restaurant career at age 14. After earing a business degree at the College of Charleston, he honed his skills at The French Culinary Institute in New York. His journey includes restaurants in New York , including the acclaimed Niko, and San Francisco before returning home to open Chubby Fish, a dock-to-table restaurant with an emphasis on local catches and sustainable sourcing. Next door, he opened Seahorse, a cocktail bar and supper club.
Chef Ulysse is a native of Haiti who received his first cooking lessons as one of 10 children at the feet of his mother and grandmother. He immigrated to the United States and trained at Johnson & Wales University and launched a career working with South Carolina school districts and as a chef for Sodexo across four states. Ulysse and his wife returned to South Carolina and in 2022 opened House 509.
The South Carolina Chef Ambassador program launched in 2014, unifying the major industries of tourism and agriculture, which collectively contribute tens of billions of dollars to the state’s economy and account for hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide, according to the news release.
Chefs are appointed by the governor, and the program is run through a collaborative effort between the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture.
“The Chef Ambassador program highlights the strong partnership between South Carolina’s chefs and farmers and the role they play in our tourism and agribusiness success,” McMaster said in the release. “We’re proud to welcome the 2026 class of Chef Ambassadors to represent our great state.”
Commissioner Weathers said the program helps remind state residents that culinary pride often begins on the farm.
“The Chef Ambassador program helps us connect South Carolinians with their food and with the farmers who grow it,” he said in the release. “These chefs exhibit our state’s culinary diversity and our wide array of locally grown foods.”