North Charleston)– Charleston International Airport (CHS) proudly announces the groundbreaking of a new six-level parking garage, designed to enhance the airport experience for travelers and accommodate the growing demand for parking. This ambitious project, totaling 2.4 million square feet and costing $348 million, is set to transform the airport’s parking facilities with modern amenities and increased capacity.
The new parking garage will feature a total of 5,164 spaces for private vehicles and 2,036 spaces designated for rental cars. The addition of a Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC) will streamline the rental process, allowing travelers to conveniently pick up and drop off rental vehicles all in one location.
“This new parking garage is a significant investment in the future of Charleston International Airport and our commitment to providing exceptional service to our travelers,” said Elliott Summey, executive director and CEO of Charleston International Airport. “As air travel continues to grow in our region, this facility will not only meet current demand but also prepare us for the future, ensuring that our airport remains a vital hub for both business and leisure travelers.”
The project is part of a broader strategy to enhance the overall passenger experience at CHS. With modern design elements and sustainability features, the garage will provide a safe, efficient, and user-friendly environment for all airport visitors.
Construction of the parking garage is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities in the area, contributing to the local economy while providing essential infrastructure to support the airport’s continued growth.
Charleston International Airport invites the community to join in celebrating this milestone. The new parking garage is expected to open in fall of 2027, further solidifying CHS as a leading travel destination in the Southeast.
National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership Announces Plans to Build New $75 Million Leadership and Training Facility
New state-of-the-art 50,000-square-foot facility coming to Patriot’s Point in Mt. Pleasant, S.C.
MT. PLEASANT, S.C. (Friday, Oct. 18, 2024) —The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, an organization dedicated to cultivating leadership through the core values of Medal of Honor recipients, announces its plans to build a $75 million 50,000-square-foottraining center and immersive visitor experience at Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. Plans were unveiled at the Center’s Leadership and Valor Dinner, which was held on Oct. 17 at the USS Yorktown, an event to help raise awareness and final funds necessary to bring the Center for Leadership’s vision to life.
“This is more than just a building; it’s the beginning of a movement,” says Dr. Harvey Schiller, Chairman of the Board of the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership. “The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership is poised to be the premier destination for leadership training in the United States. It will be a place of profound impact — preparing citizens with leadership knowledge, skills and the inspiring examples set by our Medal of Honor recipients.”
New $75 Million State-of-The-Art-Facility Coming to Mt. Pleasant
The facility will feature cutting-edge multimedia exhibits, interactive galleries and experiential installations designed to bring the stories of Medal of Honor recipients to life. Through powerful storytelling and immersive experiences, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and decisions faced by ordinary individuals in extraordinary moments.
Key components of the Center for Leadership’s guest experience include:
Hearing Inspiring Stories: Visitors will be captivated by the personal accounts of Medal of Honor recipients, learning how their values shaped decisions in moments of great challenge.
Exploring Leadership and Ethics: Through immersive exhibits, guests will explore the concepts of citizenship, ethical decision-making, and how to apply Medal of Honor values in their own lives.
Honoring Heroes: The Center will provide a space to reflect on the sacrifices and acts of valor that Medal of Honor recipients have made, encouraging visitors to consider how these stories can inform their own leadership journey.
“We are honored that Mount Pleasant is the home of this nationally important center,” says Mayor Will Haynie, Town of Mt. Pleasant and National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership Board Member. “The Center for Leadership will not only have a profound impact on our local community, but it will also serve as a national driver of leadership and character development. The Center will bring visitors from across the country, enriching our town both culturally and economically, while reinforcing the values that unite us as Americans.”
Construction of the Center for Leadership is set to begin in 2025, with the grand opening anticipated in 2027. The project is being designed by Glick Boehm and constructed by Choate Construction. The development of the Center has been made possible through a combination of public and private support, demonstrating the widespread commitment to fostering leadership values grounded in the legacy of Medal of Honor recipients.
World-Class Leadership Programming Developed by Veterans to Launch Soon
“We are dedicated to teaching the principles of valor, selflessness and integrity to future leaders through our onsite and virtual curriculum,” says Tom Mundell, President & CEO of the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership. “We have dual initiatives—constructing a world-class facility at Patriots Point and launching educational programs that will have an impact on local, state and national communities.”
In the coming months, the Center for Leadership will begin to roll out a comprehensive series of seminars, both virtual and in-person, to teach leadership skills and create a space for dialogue among Medal of Honor recipients. The Center’s leadership program will offer a broad range of courses, materials and experiences to adult learners at different stages of their leadership journey—whether in a boardroom, a classroom or their personal lives. Learn more about upcoming events here: https://mohcenterforleadership.org/events/.
About the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership
The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership’s mission is to inspire, develop, empower and challenge leaders through the values embodied by our country’s Medal of Honor Recipients. With a nationwide digital educational platform and audience-curated visitor experiences, Americans of all ages, backgrounds and locations will learn leadership values of courage, sacrifice, citizenship, integrity, commitment and patriotism to inspire them to transform lives, shape the future, and carry forward the best traditions of what it means to be an American. For more information, visit www.mohcenterforleadership.org.
Acclaimed songwriter Patrick Davis proudly announces the release of his latest single and title track off his forthcoming album, due out this December, “Carolina When I Die.” This heartfelt tribute to South Carolina captures the beauty of home, reflecting Davis’ personal journey and the universal connection we all share with our special places. Joined by friends and fellow South Carolinians Darius Rucker and Edwin McCain, the song resonates with their shared love for the region.
“Carolina When I Die” means more to Davis than any song he has ever written. “Every time I sing it live, I see how it resonates with the audience, transporting them to their own versions of home,” he explains. “It’s a beautiful reminder that music is magic and that everyone has a special place they can connect to.”He adds, “Having Darius and Edwin sing on this song is not just special because of their incredible voices and talents, but also because the three of us are ole’ South Carolina buddies singing about a place we love like no other place on Earth.
“When I sing ‘Carolina When I Die,’ I see the audience connect with their own memories and special places,” Davis shares. “It’s a universal experience that reminds us all of the importance of home and belonging.”
“Carolina When I Die” is available now on all streaming platforms.
Patrick Davis has devoted over two decades to leaving his mark onstage, in recording studios, and as the driving force behind music and lifestyle events like Songwriters in Paradise. Celebrated as a critically acclaimed solo artist, he has also gained renown as a prolific songwriter, contributing not only to his own albums but also to the catalogs of icons such as Guy Clark and Jimmy Buffett. His fifth full-length album Carolina When I Die, due out late 2024, marks a transformative moment as Davis reintroduces himself as a Southern storyteller, a master craftsman, and a versatile musician.
“Early on I made my living by playing songs in the corner of bars & restaurants in South Carolina,” Davis recalls. “Now, with Carolina When I Die, I’m reclaiming my dream. This isn’t about someone else; this is about who I am.”
Open: The pumpkin patch will be open seven days a week until Halloween, from 10- a.m. to 7 p.m. during the week. On the weekends, those hours extend until 9 p.m.
COLUMBIA, S.C. –Smithey Ironware Company (Smithey), a cookware designer and manufacturer, today announced the expansion of its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $3.1 million investment will create 16 new jobs.
Founded in Charleston in 2015, Smithey designs, markets, and manufactures premium cast iron and carbon steel cookware. The company offers a full range of industry-leading, American-made skillets, roasters, Dutch ovens and more.
Smithey recently expanded into a new headquarters, located at 1061 Everglades Ave. in North Charleston, which houses administration teams and includes a public showroom. The company also opened a new distribution warehouse, located at 2060 North Hobson Ave. in North Charleston, to support expanded fulfillment operations and higher production volumes. The new distribution facility will be home to Smithey’s expanded custom engraving operations, allowing customers to add personalized messages to their cast iron and carbon steel cookware.
Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Smithey team should visit the company’s careers page.
QUOTES
“Smithey is excited to expand our operations and elevate our brand presence via our new public showroom in Charleston County as we continue to build the next great American cookware brand.” -Smithey Ironware Company Founder and President Isaac Morton
“With our state’s ideal location and talented workforce, companies like Smithey Ironware Company are finding lasting success. We are grateful for the company’s continued investment in Charleston County and congratulate Smithey on this latest milestone.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to the Smithey Ironware Company team on this expansion which will help meet growing demand for its premium products. We are proud to support Smithey as it strengthens its commitment to Charleston County and South Carolina.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“As a homegrown company in Charleston County, Smithey’s growth is shaping our community into a manufacturing powerhouse. We look forward to seeing Smithey continue to thrive and mold our region into a vibrant economic hub.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III
FIVE FAST FACTS
Smithey Ironware Company (Smithey) is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
The company’s $3.1 million investment will create 16 new jobs.
Smithey is a cookware designer and manufacturer.
The company’s new, expanded facilities are located at 1061 Everglades Ave. and 2060 North Hobson Ave. in North Charleston, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Smithey team should visit the company’s careers page.
How often have you had a need for legal counseling or advice and felt you just couldn’t afford it? This is where Charleston Legal Access steps in. As the first and only nonprofit in the state of South Carolina to offer fee based services based on your income level, all residents now have access to legal assistance.
We are so proud to share this wonderful resource and help provide more insight on a compassionate local nonprofit.
Services
Advice and counsel sessions over the phone for free
1-2 hours of in-depth, in-person consultations for a flat fee
Full legal representation on a sliding scale
Areas of focus: Elder, Family, Housing, Property and Victims’ Rights
Our sliding scale model provides legal assistance at low, accessible rates of $50 – $100 per hour which is determined by income and family size. Learn more about qualifying for our legal services.
About Charleston Legal Access
As a non-profit law firm founded in 2016, our mission is to expand access to justice in South Carolina by providing high-quality legal representation to moderate- to low-income individuals and families.
Attorney access, even very limited representation, changes outcomes for families. It can often preserve homes, income streams, and other assets that maintain financial stability and well-being in communities. However, when faced with a legal emergency, many individuals who do not qualify for free legal representation take the risk of going without an attorney, only to find themselves in worse financial and legal trouble and at risk of losing everything.
Charleston Legal Access’ vision is a South Carolina with access to high-quality legal representation for everyone contributing to a more fair and equitable justice system.
How to Contact
Location: 1816 Success Street, Building A, Unit 102, North Charleston, SC 29405
Want to get more involved? Click HERE to learn how.
Click HERE to donate. Donations will go to further services and provide more state coverage.
A few key FAQS
You are eligible for Charleston Legal Access’ services if your income is between: $18,825 – $60,240 for an individual / $25,550 – $81,760 for a family of two / $32,275 – $103,280 for a family of three / $39,000 – $124,800 for a family of four.
Cost: We charge rates between $50 and $100 per hour, and initial retainer fees are between $500 and $1000 per case. Contact us for a free quote based on your verified gross annual income.
There is no charge for the screening and consultation calls, and you do not have to make a decision about hiring us the day you come in for an in-person consultation.
Every influential movement needs a home, and we proudly establish ours in a place dedicated to patriotism. It’s not just any place; it’s one of the world’s most renowned travel destinations.
We are building a $75 million, 50,000 square-foot conference center and immersive guest experience taking root at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, SC. It’s not merely a fun experience; it’s an awe-inspiring transformation that transcends the very essence of the Medal of Honor.
But this is more than just a building; it’s part of an effort to revitalize America through a nationwide leadership development program based on Medal of Honor values. We aim to be the go-to source for values-based leadership education and a driving force behind a national conversation on this topic.
This ambitious project is led by a dedicated team of veterans and citizens who are passionate about paving the way for future leaders. They believe in preserving the stories of our country’s greatest heroes and passing on their legacy.
Meet Your Moment Experience
The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership will be a curated visitor experience designed with immersive, multimedia exhibits to emphasize what unites us as Americans; to promote Medal of Honor values; to provide context to understand the recipient’s stories; and to inspire visitors to positively shape their futures.
With artifacts, galleries, immersive demonstrations, and experiential exhibits, guests will embark on an exhilarating journey that compels them to become leaders in their own lives by:
Hearing the inspiring stories of regular people facing extraordinary moments and understanding why their values made a difference.
Gaining a deeper understanding of citizenship, overcoming challenges, and making crucial decisions when it matters most. Exploring ethical decision-making and applying Medal of Honor values in various aspects of life.
Honoring Medal of Honor heroes who displayed extraordinary valor in military action, offering insights into your own leadership values
This conference center will be a portal for character development, leadership symposiums, certification programs, retreats, and immersive multimedia exhibits.
Location
Located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, adjacent to the historic Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum and other military attractions, the Charleston Harbor’s serene waterfront with marsh grass, dolphins. and manatees—along with the famous Ravenel Bridge—will serve as the backdrop of the new National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership.
The experience center embedded in the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership facility is designed to help citizens understand how to incorporate the Medal of Honor values in their everyday lives, providing curated exhibit space and interactive guest experiences.
Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina was designated the national site of the Congressional Medal of Honor Museum enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in the 106th Congress session on September 24, 1999. This museum is the only Medal of Honor museum recognized by the United States Congress and is managed by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
Autumn in the Lowcountry is a delightful blend of cooler temperatures, family gatherings, romantic moments, and vibrant sunshine. This season also brings an array of festivals and holidays that celebrate the region’s rich culture. To help you embrace the spirit of fall in Charleston, here’s a curated bucket list to guide your seasonal adventures.
If you attended the Inaugural Charleston Food + Wine Festival last month, you might have encountered Dee M. Robinson and sampled her smooth and delightful Good Trouble Kentucky Bourbon. This beautiful Kentucky bourbon boasts a deep amber color, with notes of spice, dried fruit, maple fudge, and light leather on the nose. The palate reveals flavors of dried cherry, hazelnut, and vanilla, leading to a comforting finish with hints of spiced nuts and chocolate mint5.
What sets this bourbon apart is the passionate and committed woman behind the brand, Dee M. Robinson. During a brief conversation, we gained insight into Dee’s journey in creating and bringing this exceptional product to market.
Despite her impressive academic and professional background, Dee M. Robinson exudes a humble and warm demeanor. However, beneath her approachable exterior lies a fierce determination that drives her advocacy work and pride in her heritage.
Dee M. Robinson’s creation stands as a testament to her dedication and vision, offering bourbon enthusiasts a product that is both rich in flavor and steeped in a compelling narrative.
We are so grateful to learn more about Dee and Good Trouble.
Q&A with Dee M. Robinson – Founder and CEO, GT Spirits Company Good Trouble Bourbon
Given your esteemed background including an advanced education with shades of Ivy at U of Penn, Northwestern and Dartmouth, serving on numerous boards, accolades including Top 100 under 50 Executive Leaders and Black MBA Magazine Entrepreneur of the Year and now owner of a nationally recognized Bourbon, how would you define your legacy today?
Dee: I would define my legacy as one of impact, resilience, and advocacy. Whether through Robinson Hill or Good Trouble Bourbon, I’ve always aimed to drive innovation while giving voice to underserved communities. My legacy, I hope, will be marked by a blend of entrepreneurial success and social responsibility. More than the accolades or achievements, it’s about opening doors for the next generation of leaders, creators, and disruptors.
In the food and beverage product industry, a common rule of thumb is making a profit by year five and building toward expansion, deeper partnerships and growth. Now embarking on year seven of Good Trouble, what is the strategy for the next five years?
Dee: The next five years for Good Trouble are focused on strategic partnerships, scaling, and embedding even deeper into the fabric of culture. We’re looking at expanding distribution channels and building on our current momentum to take the brand to more retailers and markets. We will diversity our offering’s, launch limited edition releases and continue to drive social impact through our message. Growth will come from nurturing both the brand’s economic and social purpose, ensuring we stay true to our roots while growing.
Over your many years in operations and management, what were some the key influences / influencers that helped shape the recipe for Good Trouble Bourbon?
Dee: Good Trouble’s recipe is shaped by a mix of tradition and innovation. My years in operations and management taught me the importance of quality and consistency. The influences range from conversations with master distillers to studying the market’s evolving tastes. But the real heart of Good Trouble is my mother who said the only kind of trouble my twin brother and I could get in was good trouble because my sister got in all of the rest. During the late 60’s, she was teaching us how to show up when the rest of the world might not embrace us. Additionally, John Lewis’ legacy—the courage to disrupt with purpose. That inspired us to create something bold yet nuanced, just like the spirit of social justice. We wanted to craft a bourbon that stood out not just in taste, but in meaning.
You are a strong ambassador for social justice and as outlined in your website bio, one of your goals of Good Trouble is “instigating brave conversations”. Can you tell us a little bit more about how you are using your brand to drive deeper awareness of the importance of the social justice conversation and action.
Dee: Good Trouble Bourbon is more than a drink; it’s a platform for instigating brave conversations. Through partnerships, events, and social campaigns, we’re creating spaces where people can discuss equity, justice, and systemic change over a glass of bourbon. We engage in causes and movements that push for real progress—whether supporting minority- and women-owned businesses, opening doors in nontraditional spaces, or partnering with organizations driving policy change. It’s about encouraging people to take that first sip and then lean into the difficult but necessary conversations that move the needle toward positive social change.
You are a self-proclaimed “troublemaker” and in today’s narrative, some would call a disrupter. What are some of the key moments in your life that helped shape your personality today?
Dee: There have been many moments that shaped me, but a few stand out. First, my decision to found Robinson Hill was a leap of faith, but it taught me resilience. Then, entering the boardrooms of major corporations—where being a woman of color was still rare—pushed me to become an advocate for diversity. And of course, launching Good Trouble was another defining moment; it was about turning my passion for entrepreneurship into a vehicle for social change. Each of these experiences taught me to be fearless in my pursuits, unapologetic in my beliefs, and always willing to make good trouble.
Let’s talk about the tasting notes and the experience for a moment. Inviting spirited conversations sparked by aromas of spice, dried fruit, maple fudge and light leather and tastes of vibrant and complex notes of dried cherry, hazelnut and vanilla sound enchanting. Tell us about one of your most spirited conversations over a glass of Good Trouble and great company?
Dee: One of the most memorable conversations happened in the hotel the day after bottling our first Good Trouble run. I was with a team member, and we noticed two men at the hotel bar drinking bourbon, we struck up a conversation and during that conversation there was interesting conversation; it was clear that one man was closed minded and asked me about my reference to call myself African American and he said I don’t call myself European American, so why. But I didn’t get angry, but saw it as an opportunity to teach, it was a magical moment because he actually softened and understood my explanation and we moved on and continued to have a good conversation over bourbon. The conversation took on the same complex notes as the bourbon—layered with history, spice, and a little sweetness as we explored what it means to challenge societal norms. The bourbon helped break down barriers, allowing everyone to express their ideas freely and authentically. That’s the magic of Good Trouble—it opens up the space for the boldest of dialogues.
Aside from straight and on the rocks, what are some of your most recommended cocktail recipes where Good Trouble would be the perfect base?
Dee: While Good Trouble is beautiful on its own, it also shines in cocktails. One of my favorites is the Good Trouble’s Disagree to Agree, a twist on the classic mint julep, adding mint and a touch of cognac to complement the bourbon’s vanilla and cherry notes.
Finally, what are some of the little and big things we can do, other than drinking this fine Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey to make the world a better place?
Dee: Let’s all be ‘troublemakers’ and create spaces where diverse voices thrive and instigate conversations that challenge the status quo.
Good Trouble Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is crafted using high-quality, locally grown Kentucky corn, winter rye, and malted barley. Distilled, aged, and bottled in the heart of Kentucky, this small-batch bourbon is produced at DSP-KY-10, a historic distillery dating back to 1885.
The inaugural limited edition, bottled at 92 proof, has already garnered several accolades, including a Silver Medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Double Gold at the SIP Awards International Spirits Competition 2023.
Hamby Catering, one of the most respected catering companies in Charleston for 40 years serving the community for weddings, showers, festivals, special events, Thanksgiving and more has a market. Located at 925 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407, The Hamby Market offers a beautifully curated selection of wines, candles, mixers and of course their fresh made salads, prepared meals, pastries, cakes, coffees, beverages and sandwiches.
Here is everything you need to know:
Hours: Open daily from 9AM-5PM Monday through Friday & 9AM-3PM on Saturdays.
The Market menu is specifically designed to answer the call for Hamby Favorites & light bites, and all the way to pre-made family dinners. Need help placing your order? Call at 843.725.4035 to place an order.
Perfect for large group or corporate gatherings, the bulk orders check all the Hamby flavor boxes, and are outfitted with utensils, napkins and disposable trays. Depending on your order size, delivery is available or you can pick up The Market!
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