The 44th annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) fills downtown Charleston with nature-inspired fun, from world-class art to high-energy dog demos, live raptor shows, and more. General admission grants access to exhibits across five major venues, and special events or VIP packages let you deepen the experience.
Key Highlights to Attend
SEWE General Admission & Exhibits – Enjoy access to all main exhibits across Charleston Place, Brittlebank Park, the Gaillard Center, Marion Square, and the Charleston Marriott — including fine art galleries, wildlife displays, artisan vendors, and conservation showcases. Get tickets: Register here
Birds of Prey Flight Demonstrations – See majestic raptors in action with multiple daily flight demos in Marion Square, beloved by kids and adults alike.
DockDogs® Competitions – One of SEWE’s most exciting live events: watch dogs leap for distance and speed in this high-energy competition.
Culinary & Chef Demos – Sample Lowcountry tastes and live cooking from top local chefs throughout the weekend.
Charleston Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast – Kick off SEWE Friday night with all-you-can-eat oysters, Southern fare, open bar, and fun. Tickets: Register here
VIP SEWE Soirée – Celebrate Saturday evening with music, mingling, and premium access with VIP event passes. Register: Details & tickets
Conservation & Kids Activities – New Turtle Survival Alliance demos and enhanced Kids’ Areas offer family-friendly education and interaction.
After finishing second in the nation in a new format last season, the equestrian team is on track to win its first national championship.
By Christine Mahoney
THIS YEAR COULD MARK THE FIRST TIME THE College of Charleston wins a national championship in something other than sailing (28 and counting) since 1983, when the men’s basketball team won the NAIA title prior to joining the NCAA. The equestrian team is currently ranked second in the nation in the National Collegiate Equestrian Association.
Last season, after 40 years competing in Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) events, head coach Natasha “Tash” Vitkovic decided to add NCEA meets. The key differences between the two: Elite women riders go head-to-head in NCEA under NCAA guidelines, while the IHSA provides more inclusive, tryout-based meets for both men and women of various skill levels.
In its first-ever NCEA meet, the team defeated No. 1-ranked University of Lynchburg in single discipline, ultimately finishing the season as national runners-up in the NCEA Single Discipline Championship.
Assistant coach Hope King emphasized that the team, with 10 of the 32 members competing in NCEA, would not have had such immediate success without having first been a competitive IHSA team.
“We are all one,” she says. “Our motto last year was, ‘Two formats, one team.’”
Team captain Olivia Welsh was on the IHSA roster for three years before moving over to the NCEA format this season.
“I’m hoping we can pull off the win,” says the senior business administration major from outside Chicago, referring to the national title. “That’d be a really cool way to finish out my journey at the College.”
No matter the season’s outcome, the coaches cultivate a culture of positivity.
“We want the girls leaving here every day feeling like they’ve contributed to something worthwhile,” says King, who likes the momentum they have built from last season. “In the spring, we got into our groove. It was a real confidence boost. We can do this.”
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Hydrite Chemical Co. (Hydrite), a chemical solutions manufacturer and distributor, today announced it is expanding its operations in Laurens County. The company’s $63 million investment will create 13 new jobs.
Founded in 1929, Hydrite offers a wide range of sustainable solutions that keep food safe, water clean and plants thriving through its three distinct business units: Food & Beverage Solutions, Manufactured Solutions, and Agriculture & Sulfur Solutions. In addition to the Laurens County plant, the company operates a network of manufacturing facilities, warehouses and laboratories located in California, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin and Texas.
Located in the Hunter Industrial Park in Laurens, the 43-acre greenfield site will serve as the future hub of Hydrite operations in the Southeast region, which includes the recently acquired operations of Enterprise Specialty Products, Inc. At the greenfield site, Hydrite will build a 50,000-square-foot facility with offices, laboratories, warehouses, and operations and logistics spaces to be used for chemical manufacturing and distribution.
Operations are expected to be online in 2028. Individuals interested in joining the Hydrite team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $300,000 Set-Aside grant to Laurens County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.
QUOTES
“Building on our recent acquisition of Enterprise Specialty Products, Inc. in Laurens County, we’re proud to deepen our roots in South Carolina with a new greenfield facility. The state’s exceptional business climate and talented workforce make it the right place to invest, create quality jobs and better serve customers across the Southeast and beyond. We are grateful for the support from South Carolina and look forward to being a long-term partner in the Laurens County community’s growth.” -Hydrite CEO Kevin Honkamp
“Thanks to South Carolina’s strong business environment, companies like Hydrite Chemical Co. continue to find success in our state. We congratulate Hydrite on this expansion and look forward to the new opportunities this investment will create in Laurens County.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Hydrite on expanding operations in Upstate South Carolina. The company’s $63 million investment in Laurens County demonstrates the Palmetto State’s continuing economic growth and development.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Laurens County would like to thank Hydrite for expanding operations in our county. Their investment and job creation will have a tremendous impact on our community. We wish them much success and look forward to a long and prosperous relationship.” -Laurens County Council Chairman Jeff Carroll
FIVE FAST FACTS
Hydrite Chemical Co. (Hydrite) is expanding operations in Laurens County.
The company’s $63 million investment will create 13 new jobs.
Hydrite is a chemical solutions manufacturer and distributor offering a wide range of solutions through its three distinct business units: Food & Beverage Solutions, Manufactured Solutions, and Agriculture & Sulfur Solutions.
The company’s new facility will be located in the Hunter Industrial Park in Laurens, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Hydrite team should visit the company’s careers page.
The 2026 tournament will feature exciting new spaces, enhanced food and beverage experiences, special events, theme nights, interactive fan activations, paddle sports programming and more
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Credit One Charleston Open, the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America, returns March 28 – April 5, 2026 to Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island in Charleston, South Carolina, with a world-class player field and new on-site experiences and programming. The tournament launched today its Fan Hub, one central destination for all on-site activities and experiences.
As one of the premier stops on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz, the Credit One Charleston Open continues to deliver an award-winning event for players and fans alike, and has been recognized as the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year for four consecutive years. The 2026 tournament will once again showcase a world-class player field, led by defending champion and World No. 6 Jessica Pegula, alongside fellow Americans World No. 4 Amanda Anisimova, World No. 15 Madison Keys and Charleston local and World No. 17 Emma Navarro. They are joined by 2025 WTA Comeback Player of the Year and World No. 9 Belinda Bencic, with additional players to be announced in the lead-up to the tournament.
Beyond the action on court, attendees can enjoy a dynamic lineup of off-court experiences throughout the nine-day event. Highlights include elevated lounges, new local vendors, theme nights and special events, along with returning favorites including pickleball and padel activities, classic Lowcountry food and beverage offerings, live music from local performers, engaging talk shows and more. The Credit One Charleston Open’s Fan Hub will serve as the go-to resource for all on-site happenings.
“At the Credit One Charleston Open, we are committed to building an environment year after year where fans of all backgrounds, whether longtime tennis enthusiasts or new to the game, can truly enjoy and connect with the sport,” said Bob Moran, President of Beemok Sports & Entertainment.”In 2026, we look forward to building on that commitment and introducing new experiences, theme nights and gathering spaces that create more memorable moments both on and off the court.”
The tournament has continued to enhance its on-site experience in recent years, with easy viewing access to practice courts, expanded racket sports programming, opportunities to meet WTA players and a robust Credit One Stadium app to keep attendees informed throughout the event. Building on these fan-focused upgrades, the tournament’s ambassador program will once again bring special appearances, exclusive events and interactive programming to fans all week long.
Entering its third year, the Credit One Charleston Open Tournament Ambassador program will return with fan-favorites Grand Slam champion Tracy Austin and three-time WTA champion Alison Riske-Amritraj. Former American ATP stars John Isner, Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson, hosts of the Nothing Major Podcast, will also be on-site during the tournament.
New in 2026:
The Kitchen: Tournament guests can enjoy The Kitchen, a brand-new dining concept located next to the pickleball courts. Designed to capture the laid-back spirit of Charleston, The Kitchen offers an inviting outdoor experience showcasing authentic Lowcountry flavor, fresh local ingredients and regional purveyors. It is the perfect spot for attendees to relax and enjoy the tastes of the South between matches.
Theme Nights: The Credit One Charleston Open will introduce a new lineup of Theme Nights in 2026, giving fans more ways to experience the tournament beyond the court. These special evenings will feature unique programming, enhanced entertainment and community celebrations throughout the week, creating even more memorable moments for attendees.
Ladies Night: Monday, March 30 – An unforgettable evening featuring a live mixology demonstration with special guests from The Nothing Major Podcast including John Isner, Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson, along with themed cocktails, a photo booth and a curated shopping experience, with programming designed for a night out with the girls.
Educators Night: Tuesday, March 31 – A night dedicated to celebrating and recognizing Charleston’s incredible teachers and school communities. The Credit One Charleston Open will provide 500 free tickets to both Berkeley County and Charleston County School Districts for direct distribution to Charleston-area educators.
Military and First Responders Night: Wednesday, April 1 – An evening honoring the service and sacrifice of those who protect and serve. General Admission tickets for military members will be available through Vet Tix (https://www.vettix.org), while tickets for first responders will be distributed directly through local first responder organizations.
Women and Girls in Sports Night: Thursday, April 2 – A celebration of the power and impact of women in athletics, bringing together teams, coaches and the next generation of competitors for an inspiring night.
Special Event:
Oyster Roast: Fans can kick off qualifying weekend with a signature new experience, the Credit One Charleston Open Oyster Roast, taking place Saturday, March 28. Hosted by OVG Hospitality at The Kitchen, this special event will feature all-you-can-eat oysters, with special guest Chef Jason Stanhope of Sullivan’s Fish Camp on-site shucking oysters. Tickets include general admission access to the grounds and main stadium for the first qualifying session, plus entry to the Oyster Roast from 4 PM to 6 PM. Beverages will be available for purchase.
MUSC Health Family Weekend, Saturday, March 28 – Sunday, March 29 – MUSC Health Family Weekend will feature two full days of world-class tennis and family-friendly fun. Attendees can enjoy kid-focused activities, interactive games, live music, face painting, autograph opportunities and more throughout the grounds. Following a successful debut in 2025, qualifying matches will once again be played inside Credit One Stadium, giving fans the chance to experience tournament action on the main stage. Presented by MUSC Health, admission is free for children 16 and under, with adult tickets starting at $10.
USTA Play Tennis! Provision Fan Zone,Saturday, March 28 – Sunday, April 5 – Fans of all ages are invited to put their tennis skills to the test in the Fan Zone, in partnership with USTA South Carolina, featuring interactive games such as Speed of Serve, Reaction Wall, Ball Crew and Timed Rally Challenges, along with new additions including Sign the Lens and the Umpire Challenge.
The Draw, Saturday, March 28, 3pm – Fans attending this exciting event on the Oaks Deck will be the first to know the first-round matchups and the path to the 2026 Credit One Charleston Open finals. Players competing in the field will be in attendance to share insights and reactions, with a photo opportunity available at the conclusion of the draw.
Live Music, Saturday, March 28 – Sunday, April 5 – Live music programming throughout the week will include acoustic performances at the Ultra Lounge, The Oaks Deck and the tournament’s new dining space, The Kitchen, creating an even more vibrant atmosphere across the grounds. Attendees can enjoy daily sets from local favorites like Lauren Hall, Matt MacKelcan and Grace Miller Moody, a 2025 contestant on The Voice, along with more artists throughout the week while taking in world-class tennis.
Ultra Lounge. Saturday, March 28 – Sunday, April 5 – This gathering space inside the stadium returns in 2026 as a must-visit destination for all attendees. Following the successful debut of Tennis, Tacos & Tunes in 2025, the popular experience will be back once again, featuring smash tacos, refreshing Michelob Ultra Cheladas and Palomas, and live acoustic music throughout the week. Fans can relax, recharge and enjoy the atmosphere between matches.
Credit One Bank Autograph Sessions, Saturday, March 28 – Friday, April 3 – Meet the stars of the WTA with autograph sessions throughout the tournament. Download the Credit One Stadium app to learn schedules and times.
Baseline Banter with Pippa Horn, Monday, March 30 – Friday, April 3 – Join in daily from 5-
6pm for live, on-site interviews at the Oaks’ Feature Stage with the tournament’s top players and coaches. Attendees will get an inside look into the journeys, successes and struggles that have shaped their tennis careers.
Food and Beverage Features:
The Credit One Charleston Open will feature several enhanced dining offerings in 2026, providing fans with a wide range of local flavors and culinary experiences throughout the tournament grounds.
At the popular COCO Row, attendees can enjoy a curated mix of Charleston favorites, including new coastal seafood offerings from Sullivan’s Fish Camp, bold Lowcountry-inspired bites from Daniel Island’s Mpishi, handheld staples from the NYC-inspired hotspot Bodega, fresh and healthy options from Verde, authentic slices from Orlando’s Pizza and Vietnamese-inspired street food from Bon Banh Mi. Refreshing drinks from Lowcountry Lemonade will also be available at a dedicated stand nearby.
New for 2026, The Kitchen, located next to the pickleball courts, will serve up an authentic taste of the Lowcountry through an inviting outdoor dining experience. Showcasing fresh, local ingredients and offerings from regional food purveyors, The Kitchen provides fans with a new place to savor the flavors of the South between matches.
The tournament’s signature cocktail, “The First Serve,” will be available at various locations across the grounds, including the classic recipe as well as mocktail and frozen options for attendees to enjoy.
The First Serve Plaza, located just behind the front gate, will be home to Chick-fil-A, Daddy’s Breakfast + Espresso, along with a full beverage lineup including Natural Blonde Bloody Marys, mimosas, coffee and more, making it an ideal stop for a pick-me-up throughout the week.
The Food Truck Village on-site will feature a lineup of popular local fare and rotating favorites, including sweet treats from Wholly Cow Ice Cream, classic Lowcountry comfort food from Page’s Okra Grill, gourmet popcorn from Mr. Popper’s, tropical favorites from Playa Bowls, refreshing pops from King of Pops and plant-based options from Bangin’ Vegan Eats.
For convenient grab-and-go options, Club Court Market and Seven Farms Market will offer snacks, packaged refreshments, ready-to-drink cocktails and craft beer throughout tournament week.
Inside the stadium concourse, fans can enjoy classic stadium offerings alongside local favorite Home Team BBQ, serving up signature southern flavors and barbecue staples, as well as the Ultra Lounge, featuring smash tacos, refreshing beverages and a relaxed social atmosphere between matches.
In addition to permanent dining locations, several mobile cart vendors will be available throughout the tournament grounds, offering even more convenient options while moving between matches. Fans can cool off with Glacé shaved ice, stop by Matcha Bar CHS for specialty beverages, or enjoy Loleo’s fresh-squeezed juices, mimosas, iced coffee and energy bites.
Partner Programming Features:
The DXC Technology Series brings fans exclusive insights into women’s leadership and the influence of female athletes on and off the court. Hosted daily at 1 PM by tournament host Pippa Horn, this interactive series features in-depth conversations with WTA players, showcasing their resilience, ambition and success. Each session offers an inspiring look into their journeys, celebrating leadership, empowerment and the future of women in sports. Open to all attendees, the DXC Technology Series promises thought-provoking discussions that go beyond the game.
Har-Tru “Play On After Dark” will return on Thursday, April 2. This free high-energy special event features glow-in-the-dark tennis games in a one-of-a-kind experience. Space is limited and registration is required. Registration details coming soon.
Tournament partners Mercedes-Benz, Southern Tide and Thorne will feature on-site experiences for fans to play games, pose for photos, experience new products, shop and meet players.
Tickets are currently on sale at creditonecharlestonopen.com or by calling (843) 856-7900. For additional information, please email info@creditonestadium.com or visit creditonecharlestonopen.com. When purchasing tickets for the 2026 Credit One Charleston Open, patrons have the option to choose fromsingle session tickets and a limited number of ticket packages. Special discounts are available for juniors, seniors, USTA members and military members. Juniors aged 16 and under receive complimentary general admission with the purchase of an adult ticket, courtesy of Credit One Bank.
About the Credit One Charleston Open: The Credit One Charleston Open is North America’s largest women-only tennis tournament. In 2026, the tournament will become the first standalone WTA 500 event to offer equal prize money. Formerly known as the Family Circle Cup and Volvo Car Open, the event was founded in 1973 and relocated to Charleston, S.C., in 2001 from Hilton Head Island, S.C. The tournament has a history of breaking new ground in women’s tennis, including becoming the first women’s event to offer $100,000 in prize money in 1973 and the first to be broadcast live on network television. Recognized as the WTA 500 Event of the Year in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, the tournament traditionally attracts more than 90,000 spectators. It features a singles draw of 48 players, a qualifying draw of 24 players, and a doubles draw of 16 players.In partnership with Tennis Channel and WTA Media, the Credit One Charleston Open is broadcast from the first ball struck in main draw competition to the last ball played in the finals, reaching audiences across the U.S. and through 174 international partners. The tournament receives more than 100 hours of live tennis coverage, engaging millions of fans worldwide.
The Credit One Charleston Open is owned and operated by Charleston Tennis, LLC. For more information on the Credit One Charleston Open, visit creditonecharlestonopen.com, call (843) 856-7900, email info@charlestontennisllc.com, Facebook (Credit One Charleston Open), Twitter (@CharlestonOpen) or Instagram (@CreditOneCharlestonOpen).
About Credit One Bank:
Credit One Bank is one of the fastest-growing credit card issuers in the U.S. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Las Vegas, Credit One Bank offers a full spectrum of credit card products including cash back and points-based cards as well as high-yield certificate of deposit and savings accounts. Credit One Bank is also an official partner of the Las Vegas Raiders and the Official Credit Card of NASCAR, the Vegas Golden Knights, and Best Friends Animal Society. Learn more at CreditOneBank.com, in our Newsroom, or on social media (@CreditOneBank) on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.
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