Charleston Daily Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

By Mark A Leon

The Charleston Promise Neighborhood (CPN) stands as one of the Lowcountry’s most ambitious efforts to break cycles of poverty through education, health, and community investment. Rooted in collaboration and long-term vision, the organization has spent more than a decade working to reshape opportunity for children and families in some of the Charleston area’s most under-resourced neighborhoods.

Founded in 2010, Charleston Promise Neighborhood was inspired by the Harlem Children’s Zone, a nationally recognized initiative that emphasizes comprehensive, “cradle-to-career” support systems. From its inception, CPN was designed as a public-private partnership, bringing together the City of Charleston, the City of North Charleston, Charleston County, the Charleston County School District, and private philanthropic partners.  

The organization focuses on a 5.6-square-mile corridor known as “The Neck,” an area historically affected by limited access to quality education, healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities.   Its founding goal is both bold and measurable: to “transform the neighborhood within a generation” by ensuring that every child has a pathway to graduate high school and succeed in college, the workforce, or the military.  

At the heart of Charleston Promise Neighborhood is its mission to provide “comprehensive programs and services that support children, strengthen families, and mobilize residents to action.”   Rather than addressing challenges in isolation, CPN operates on the belief that a child’s success is shaped by interconnected factors—education, health, family stability, and community environment. This holistic approach drives everything from early childhood readiness initiatives to workforce development and leadership programs.

CPN’s work in the community is wide-ranging and deeply embedded. In schools, the organization supports academic achievement through expanded learning programs, including afterschool and summer enrichment that combine tutoring with creative and physical activities.   Beyond academics, health and wellness programs like KidsWell bring medical and behavioral care directly into schools, reducing barriers for families and helping students stay focused on learning.  

Equally important is family and community engagement. Workshops, advocacy training, and neighborhood partnerships empower parents and residents to take an active role in shaping their environment. CPN also connects students to future opportunities through career exposure, mentorship, and leadership development—efforts designed to align education with real-world pathways.  

More than a service provider, Charleston Promise Neighborhood functions as a connector—linking schools, healthcare providers, nonprofits, and families into a unified support system. Its long-term vision is to create a thriving, self-sustaining community where educational attainment rises, health outcomes improve, and generational poverty is no longer the norm.

For those interested in learning more or getting involved, visit the official website: Charleston Promise Neighborhood. Volunteer opportunities and community engagement details can be found here: Get Involved / Volunteer.

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston has never struggled to make a first impression. The skyline of church steeples, the rhythm of carriage wheels, the soft palette of Rainbow Row—it’s all part of a well-earned reputation. But the version of Charleston that stays with you long after you leave isn’t always the one on display. It’s the one you discover slowly, almost accidentally. The one that asks you to look a little closer.

Sometimes, that means quite literally looking up.

At Look Up Charleston Gift Emporium & Art Gallery, located at 128 Meeting Street, the city reveals itself through the hands of its artists. It’s not a place built for foot traffic—you have to choose to go there. And once you do, you’ll find a collection of 37 unique local artists and artisans whose work feels deeply personal: bold prints, handcrafted goods, and pieces that reflect Charleston not as a postcard, but as a lived experience. It’s the kind of place that quietly redefines what a souvenir can be.

That same sense of discovery carries through at 54 Broad Street, where The Commons opens into a courtyard that feels worlds away from downtown. Sunlight filters in, landing softly on ceramics, textiles, and carefully chosen objects. There’s no rush here. It’s a space designed for lingering, for reconsidering what beauty looks like in the everyday.

Art, in Charleston, isn’t confined to walls—it’s part of the conversation. At Robert Lange Studios, that conversation is happening in real time. Artists paint just feet away from visitors, blurring the line between observer and participant. A few blocks away, Lowcountry Artists Gallery offers something equally rare: a direct connection to the creators themselves. Here, the person who made the piece is often the one handing it to you, sharing the story behind every brushstroke.

Of course, Charleston’s soul isn’t just found in galleries—it’s tasted, too.

There’s nothing polished about Bertha’s Kitchen (2332 Meeting Street Road, North Charleston), and that’s precisely the point. A James Beard–recognized institution, it serves food that feels rooted in memory—fried chicken, lima beans, cornbread—each dish carrying the weight of tradition and community. It’s not designed for trend cycles or social media moments. It’s built on something far more lasting.

Not far away, a different kind of discovery awaits inside Exchange Factor. Here, style isn’t curated—it’s uncovered. Racks of vintage clothing stretch across decades, inviting you to dig, to search, to find something that feels entirely your own. It’s less about shopping and more about the thrill of the unexpected.

Back downtown, the day softens into evening, and Charleston reveals yet another layer. At The Archer, the lighting is low, the cocktails are precise, and the mood is quietly confident. It’s the kind of place locals slip into when they want something elevated without the spectacle. Nearby, tucked inside Hotel Emeline, Frannie & The Fox hums with a different energy—warm, lively, and just a little transportive. Beneath string lights and open sky, it feels less like a restaurant and more like a gathering.

Even in the more familiar parts of the city, there are layers waiting to be noticed. Croghan’s Jewel Box has been part of King Street for generations, but step inside and it becomes something more than a storefront. It’s a place where history is worn, gifted, and passed down—where craftsmanship carries the weight of time.

And then there are the spaces that ask nothing of you at all.

Philadelphia Alley is easy to overlook, shaded and quiet, its cobblestones holding centuries of stories. There are no displays, no menus, no invitations to buy or browse. Just a moment of stillness in a city that knows how to move—and how to pause.

This is the Charleston you almost miss. Not because it’s hidden, exactly, but because it doesn’t insist on being seen. It exists in second-floor galleries, behind unmarked doors, and in the spaces between destinations.

And more often than not, it’s where the city feels most like itself.

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Boeing and Biman Bangladesh Airlines announce the national carrier has placed its largest-ever order, selecting 14 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX airplanes to expand and modernize its fleet.

• Bangladeshi flag carrier to fly the entire 787 family with first 787-10 purchase
• 737 operator places first 737 MAX order to modernize its single-aisle fleet

DHAKA, Bangladesh, April 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Biman Bangladesh Airlines announced today the national carrier has placed its largest-ever order, selecting 14 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX airplanes to expand and modernize its fleet.

The new order includes:

• Eight 787-10s, Biman’s first order of the largest 787 variant, to serve high-demand flights to the Middle East
• Two 787-9s to support long-haul service to Europe and North America
• Four 737-8s, the airline’s first 737 MAX order, to efficiently connect Bangladesh with destinations across the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia

“The new fuel-efficient, technologically advanced aircraft will modernize Biman’s fleet, sharpen operational performance, and extend its international route network — strengthening Bangladesh’s position in the global aviation market,” said Kaizer Sohel Ahmed, Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

Biman currently operates a fleet of 14 Boeing airplanes – 787-9s, 787-8s, 777s and Next-Generation 737s – on its long-haul and short-haul international networks. The airline will boost passenger and cargo capacity while improving fuel efficiency with the 787-10, which offers the lowest cost per seat of any widebody airplane.

The 737-8 will support Biman’s single-aisle fleet renewal and help the carrier meet growing regional demand. The 737 MAX and 787 families deliver 20-25% fuel-use improvement compared to the airplanes they replace.

“We are proud to build on our partnership with Biman with this order and support their strategy to modernize their fleet, expand their network and enhance the passenger experience,” said Paul Righi, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Eurasia, India and South Asia. “The 787-10 delivers unmatched efficiency and seamless commonality with Biman’s existing 787s, while the 737-8 is the ideal bridge from their 737 fleet with its versatility, fuel savings and crew commonality.”

The 787-10, like the 787-9 and 787-8, offers passengers a comfortable cabin experience with the largest windows of any widebody jet, air that is less dry and pressurized at a lower cabin altitude, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.

Biman currently flies from Dhaka, Bangladesh, to 22 international destinations, including major hubs in the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and Europe. The airline’s longest route is the service to Toronto via Istanbul on a 787-9.

Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook projects South Asia’s widebody fleet will more than triple over 20 years as the region’s carriers connect millions of travelers to international destinations across the Middle East, Europe and North America. With the region poised for significant air travel demand over the next two decades, Bangladesh will continue to contribute to this growth.  

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.  

Source: Boeing

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Photo Caption: Boeing and Biman Bangladesh Airlines announce the national carrier has placed its largest-ever order, selecting 14 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX airplanes to expand and modernize its fleet. Pictured and seated left to right: Kaizer Sohel Ahmed, Managing Director & CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines; and Paul Righi, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Eurasia, India and South Asia. Standing left to right are: Fahmida Akhter, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism; Md. Abdur Rahman Khan, Chairman, National Board of Revenue; Md. Mostakur Rahman, Governor of Bangladesh Bank; Rumee A Hossain, Chairman, Biman Bangladesh Airlines; M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh; Dr. Khalilur Rahman, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh; Afroza Khanam Rita, Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh; Humayun Kabir, Advisor to the Prime Minister; Brent T. Christensen, U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh; Kaanthi Bhuvanagiri, Commercial Sales Director, India and South Asia; and Asad Alam Siam, Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

(CHARLESTON COUNTY) – The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) will open its three waterparks – Splash Island in Mount Pleasant, Splash Zone on James Island, and Whirlin’ Waters in North Charleston – as well as the pool at the West County Aquatic Center in Hollywood, for weekends only starting May 16. Daily operations will begin on May 30. The parks’ hours will vary this year; see schedule below and visit CharlestonCountyParks.com for details.  

A schedule for each park’s operations is as follows*:

Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark:

· Open weekends only from May 16 through Memorial Day; Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

·  Open daily from May 30 – Aug. 9; weekends from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and weekdays (Monday – Friday) from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

·  Open weekends only from Aug. 15 through Labor Day, Sept. 7, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

·   Closed for the season after Sept. 7

Splash Island Waterpark and Splash Zone Waterpark:

·  Open weekends only from May 16 through Memorial Day; Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1-6 p.m.

·  Open daily starting May 30; Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m.; weekdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

·  Splash Island Closed for the season after Aug. 2

·  Splash Zone Closed for the season after Aug. 9

West County Aquatic Center:

·  Open weekends only starting May 16 through Memorial Day; Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m.

·  Open daily May 30 – Aug. 9; Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday 1 – 6 p.m.; weekday hours vary each week and will be posted on our website

·   Open weekends only from Aug. 15 – Labor Day, Sept. 7, Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1-6 p.m.

·   Closed for the season after Sept. 7

*Please visit CharlestonCountyParks.com for a full daily schedule and hours of operation for each park before planning your visit. Schedules are subject to change. 

Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark at North Charleston Wannamaker County Park is the largest of CCPRC’s waterparks. It features unique attractions for all ages including a 60-foot-tall multi-person slide The Washout, the Big Splash Tree House, an 870-foot-long lazy river, the Big Kahuna wave pool, Tubular Twister slides, Rip Tide Run mat racer slide and Otter Bay kiddie area.

Splash Zone Waterpark is located within James Island County Park. It offers two 200-foot-long slides, a large leisure pool, a 500-foot-long lazy river, and a family play complex called The Rainforest that features slides, buckets and sprays. 

Splash Island Waterpark, located within Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park, provides hours of fun for toddlers to pre-teenagers. Attractions include a 200-foot-long body flume, activity pool, a 16-foot-long otter slide, sprays, geysers, waterfalls and more. 

Each waterpark offers a full range of amenities including concessions, lockers, lounge chairs, showers and restrooms, and is staffed with certified lifeguards. Birthday party packages are available. Admission fees vary, and Splash Passes for all-season waterpark access are available for sale now at CharlestonCountyParks.com.

The West County Aquatic Center features a 6,000-square-foot seasonal outdoor pool for beginner and seasoned swimmers, and also offers swimming lessons and a competitive swim team.

For more information on the waterparks or West County Aquatic Center, and a daily schedule of operations, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.

Some job openings are still available for lifeguards and other park positions. Charleston County Parks’ jobs offer competitive pay and great benefits. For a list of open positions and to apply, visit: ccprc.com/jobs

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The South Carolina Hurricane Guide is updated annually by SCEMD in collaboration with local and state partners of the South Carolina Emergency Response Team. All information contained in the Guide is valid at the time of publication each year, but is subject to change based on actual storm conditions.
Printed copies of the Guide are available at all South Carolina Welcome Centers, at Walgreens stores statewide and at the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) offices in Bamberg, Beaufort, Bluffton, Charleston, Conway, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Kingstree, Ladson, Lake City, Little River, Mullins, Moncks Corner, Mount Pleasant, Myrtle Beach, North Charleston, Saint George and Varnville.

South Carolina has an online hub for hurricane preparedness. Visit hurricane.sc to find your hurricane evacuation zone and to get started on your hurricane safety plan. You can also access the official South Carolina Hurricane Guide and other helpful resources anytime you need to prepare for a storm in the Palmetto State.

Click HERE to download the 2026 South Carolina Hurricane Guide in English

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By Collyn Taylor, collyntaylor@sc.edu

Five University of South Carolina students have been awarded the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship, marking the 34th consecutive year the university has at least one Goldwater Scholar.

This year’s winners are Khufu Holly Jr., Hannah Keen, Ria Kothari, Ansley Martin and Reagan Stanton. The five Goldwater Scholars this year set a university record. USC previously had four Goldwater Scholars in 2004 and 2023.

“These Goldwater Scholars have done amazing things,” says Melissa Moss, who serves as the chair for USC’s Goldwater committee. “It was a pleasure to work with each of them during the application process, and now I am excited to see where they take their future research careers.”

Four students are South Carolina Honors College students; one is a Capstone Scholar. Since the award was established in 1986 to honor U.S. Sen. Barry Goldwater, the University of South Carolina has had 77 total scholars.

More than 400 higher education institutions nominate students each academic year for the $7,500 awards, which encourage undergraduate students to pursue research careers in natural sciences, engineering and mathematics. A total of 452 scholarships were awarded this year from the 1,485 nominees by 482 institutions.

Khufu Holly Jr.

Junior from Florence, South Carolina, majoring in biomedical engineering with a minor in medical humanities and culture.

Holly is a biomedical engineering major in the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing with a minor in medical humanities and culture. The Honors College student worked in a Cleveland Clinic lab in summer 2025 and currently works in the Webb lab at USC studying blood vessel injuries resulting from hypertension.

They serve as the founder and editor-in-chief of the Caroliniana Undergraduate Research Journal.

“I learned how to reflect on my research experiences and leverage my experience outside the classroom to talk about my story and how these have influenced my career trajectory,” Holly says about the application process.

Holly plans to pursue a career as a physician-scientist specializing in pediatric infectious diseases while researching treatments for bacterial pathogens and how they interact with human immune systems.

Hannah Keen

Junior from Spartanburg, South Carolina, majoring in chemistry with an environmental and sustainable engineering minor.

A chemistry major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences with a minor in environmental and sustainable engineering, Keen currently works in Susan Richardson’s lab looking at emerging contaminants in water.

She also researches toxicology to examine disinfection by products and is a student in the Honors College.

“Winning Goldwater will give me a community of scholars whom I can connect with and learn about their experiences with graduate school, research, becoming a professor and more,” says Keen, who is also a Stamps Scholar.

She plans to earn a doctorate in environmental chemistry and lead a research group studying harmful toxins in the environment with a focus on identification, toxicity and mitigation.

Ria Kothari

Junior from Kingsport, Tennessee, majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology with a psychology minor.

Kothari is a biochemistry and molecular biology major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences with a psychology minor. She’s also an Honors College student and McNair Scholar.

She is currently working with Chuanbing Tang’s lab researching antimicrobial peptide polymers. She completed a summer internship with the National Institutes of Health studying small-molecule therapeutics for kidney disease.

Kothari looks forward to how the Goldwater Scholarship will help her pursue a research career in STEM and connect with scientists throughout the country. 

“I learned more about what my career goals are and the kind of research I am interested in pursuing,” she says. “If applicants want to expand their abilities as a researcher, they need to create opportunities for them to do so instead of waiting for them to come.”

Ansley Martin

Junior from Greenville, South Carolina, majoring in neuroscience with a medical humanities and culture minor.

A neuroscience major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences and a medical humanities and culture minor, Martin began conducting neuroimaging research the summer after graduating high school.

That led to her current research with Souvik Sen and the Aging Brain Cohort. Martin also helped create the USC Brain Health’s Vibrant Minds program, an expressive arts initiative providing support to older adults with neurological conditions.

“This award will allow me to gain invaluable experience performing research methods that are at the forefront of their field,” says Martin, who serves as the president of the Phi Delta Epsilon medical fraternity. “It will give me the opportunity to conduct truly innovative, multi-modal, translation research.” 

Also a Capstone Scholar, Martin wants to pursue a doctorate in neurology to advance biological understanding and translate her research to personalized treatments.

Reagan Stanton

Junior from Minneola, Florida, majoring in physics with an astronomy minor.

Stanton is a physics major with an astronomy minor in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. A student in the South Carolina Honors College, she is currently involved in two research projects: studying magnetic fields of dwarf galaxies and designing an instrument to measure circular polarization of the cosmos.

Stanton, who is also treasurer of the Society of Physics Students Club, notes that the scholarship will provide her with a network of connections for her future career.

Her research has been supported by both Magellan and South Carolina Honors College research grants. She’s also presented her research at a meeting of the South Carolina Astronomers. She plans to become a research astrophysicist studying extragalactic magnetism. 

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Students applying for national fellowships and scholarships work closely with top research faculty members. This year’s Goldwater faculty committee was chaired by Melissa Moss (engineering and computing). Committee members were Dave Barbeau (earth, ocean and environment) Mark Uline, (engineering and computing), Yanwen Wu (physics and astronomy) Joshua Cooper (mathematics) Fabienne Poulain (biological sciences) and Aaron Vannucci (chemistry and biochemistry).

Students interested in applying for the Goldwater or other national fellowships should contact National Fellowships and Scholar Programs.

Source: University of South Carolina

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By Delaney Freistuhler, freistud@mailbox.sc.edu

FirstGen Forward has named the University of South Carolina one of its newest FirstGen Forward Network Champions, an exclusive group of institutions recognized as national leaders in advancing first-generation student success. 

The network includes 470 colleges and universities across 47 states and the District of Columbia. There are three designations an institution can achieve — member, leader and champion — with only 32 institutions recognized at the champion level.  

USC is one of just three SEC schools to earn the champion designation, joining Mississippi State and Kentucky. Only two other schools in the state, Presbyterian and Furman, have the champion designation as well.  

“We are honored to be recognized as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion,” said Mary Anne Fitzpatrick, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “This distinction reflects our strong commitment to supporting first-generation students and building pathways that help them succeed from enrollment through graduation.” 

Through initiatives led by the First-Generation Center and campus partners, USC provides programs and resources that help foster academic achievement, personal growth and a sense of belonging.   

The university is dedicated to ensuring first-generation students at USC, which make up over 20 percent of the student population, have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.  

USC opened its first generation center last year and provides resources for first-generation students to match with mentors at the university. There are also resources for faculty and staff to access to help them support first-generation students in Columbia.  

To learn more about first-generation efforts at the University of South Carolina, visit the Graduation and Retention Network website.

Source: University of South Carolina

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CHARLESTON, SC – Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF) is proud to announce the 2026 Charter Day award winners, recognizing outstanding achievements in the protection, restoration, and interpretation of Charleston’s historic built environment. This year’s honorees represent a diverse range of projects, from meticulous residential rehabilitations and institutional restorations to cultural landscape preservation and innovative public advocacy. Historic Charleston Foundation recognizes their excellence in preservation, offering not just technical expertise in maintaining historic sites and cultural landscapes, but also their dedication, resources, and a strong commitment to the city’s lasting legacy. 

On Thursday, April 30th, we will celebrate winners of the following awards at the annual Charter Day awards ceremony and reception: The Whitelaw Founders Award, the Joseph H. Peter McGee Advocacy Award, and the Stoney Craftsmanship Awards. The event is held at the historic First Baptist Church at 61 Church Street at 6 pm, immediately followed by a reception at the Nathaniel Russell House Museum, 51 Meeting Street. This program is free and open to the public; space is limited and registration is required on HCF’s website, HistoricCharleston.org. 

The Whitelaw Founders Award recognizes individuals, groups, or government entities that actively engage in the long-term preservation of important buildings and places. 

The Bennett Rice Mill, SC Ports Authority (Landmark Preservation; GEL Engineering) | The Bennett Rice Mill at Union Pier is being honored for its remarkable stabilization and restoration of a fragile yet powerful remnant of Charleston’s industrial past. Dating to the mid-19th century, the surviving masonry wall stands as a rare physical link to the city’s once-dominant rice economy. Through a $1.6 million investment, the South Carolina Ports Authority partnered with Landmark Preservation and GEL Engineering to carefully assess, stabilize, and restore the deteriorating structure. Over more than a year of work, the team employed highly specialized preservation techniques to ensure the wall’s structural integrity while maintaining its historic character. As redevelopment of Union Pier continues, this project ensures that Charleston’s layered history remains visible—bridging past and future through thoughtful, place-sensitive preservation. 

89 Smith Street (Mark Maresca, Owner) | The rehabilitation of 89 Smith Street reflects a deep respect for architectural history and craftsmanship. Purchased in 2022 by architect Mark Maresca, the c.1840 Bennett-Jones House underwent a careful two-year restoration that prioritized original materials and design intent. Built in the Greek Revival style by Jefferson Bennett and later owned by renowned architect Edward C. Jones, the home features a striking Doric portico and distinctive polygonal bay windows blending Gothic, Roman, and Egyptian influences. Maresca’s work focused on restoring historic finishes while removing non-historic alterations, allowing the house’s architectural narrative to reemerge. The result is a thoughtful and academically grounded rehabilitation that honors both the building’s origins and its evolution, ensuring its preservation as a significant example of Charleston’s antebellum residential design. 

26 South Battery (Kevin Story & Stephanie Finch, Owners) | The restoration of 26 South Battery, the Col. John Ashe House, is a masterclass in patient, detail-driven preservation. Acquired in 2021, this c. 1828 Italianate residence underwent a multi-year, full-scale rehabilitation that balanced historical accuracy with the needs of a modern and growing family (two children were born during the course of the project). The undertaking, working with Richard Marks Restorations and Thomas & Denzinger Architects, entailed extensive plaster and stucco repair, piazza restoration, and the installation of a standing seam copper roof. A defining achievement was the painstaking return of the home’s exterior to its original limewash finish, complete with historically accurate color analysis and hand-restored detailing. Inside, original moldings, mantels, and decorative elements were carefully preserved or recreated using traditional techniques. Even landscape features were designed to echo the home’s geometry. The result is a cohesive and deeply respectful restoration that celebrates the building’s craftsmanship while ensuring its continued vitality as a lived-in historic home. 

60 Tradd Street (Dr. John Kerrison, Owner) | The project at 60 Tradd Street represents the power of research-driven restoration and multi-generational stewardship. Built circa 1732 and held within the same family since 1967, the home underwent a transformative effort to reconstruct its long-missing piazza—an architectural feature removed in the mid-20th century. Upon acquiring the property, Dr. John Kerrison, who grew up in the home, collaborated with architect Bill Huey and a team of engineers and builders to investigate the piazza’s original form using historic maps, photographs, and physical evidence embedded within the structure. The reconstruction required both technical precision and historical sensitivity, resulting in a structurally sound and visually authentic addition that reintegrates the house into its historic context. This project reflects a profound commitment not only to architectural integrity, but also to generational stewardship and Charleston’s evolving yet continuous streetscape. 

60 Meeting Street (Jon Mazzoli, Owner) | The rehabilitation of 60 Meeting Street highlights the successful integration of traditional building arts with advanced preservation techniques. Originally constructed in 1771 and later transformed in 1893 into a high-Victorian residence, the building presented a complex restoration challenge. Mazzoli worked with Meadors Inc. on a comprehensive interior and exterior rehabilitation, including the restoration of its distinctive mansard roof and turret using custom-fabricated metal tiles. Additional work included window restoration, stucco repair, and the modernization of building systems, all while correcting prior alterations that had compromised the structure’s integrity. The project stands as a model for how historic properties can be sensitively adapted while preserving the craftsmanship and character that define them. 

Mosquito Beach (Bill “Cubby” Wilder) | The Pine Tree Hotel and Skeeta Lounge at Mosquito Beach represents a vital investment in cultural preservation and storytelling. Supported by a $1.25 million grant from the Mellon Foundation and facilitated by Historic Charleston Foundation, the project seeks to restore these landmark structures to active use while honoring their significance as centers of African American leisure during the Jim Crow era. Extensive rehabilitation work, under the expert leadership of Cubby Wilder, Larry Graves, and Kyle Taylor, is nearing completion, alongside plans to revive the site as a destination that celebrates Gullah Geechee culture, foodways, and history. By pairing physical restoration with interpretive programming and operational support, this effort ensures that Mosquito Beach’s legacy is not only preserved, but also meaningfully shared with future generations. 

St. Philip’s Church | St. Philip’s Church is being recognized for its ambitious and comprehensive “Shine the Light” preservation campaign. Beginning in 2020, the congregation worked with Ryan Magee and Bill Huey + Associates to undertake a wide-ranging initiative to restore the structural and aesthetic integrity of its historic campus, including the Sanctuary, cemetery gates, and primary entrances. As work progressed, the scope expanded to include intricate interior restoration, such as the repair of cast plaster ornamentation and the installation of discreet lighting to highlight architectural details. Entirely funded by the congregation, the campaign reflects a profound commitment to stewardship. The project not only preserves one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks, but also reinforces its role as a living 

institution, welcoming thousands of visitors each year while continuing to serve its active faith community. According to Rector Jeff Miller, the congregation regards “these magnificent buildings as Gospel assets. The iconic steeple is a lighthouse to shine the light of Christ.” 

The Joseph H. (Peter) McGee Advocacy Award recognizes excellence in advocacy, community preservation and planning. 

Bill Olson | Bill Olson, a.k.a. “Charleston’s Civic Storyteller” wins this year’s Joseph McGee Advocacy Award for his community outreach, generating broad interest and engagement for preservation advocacy through digital storytelling. A local real estate professional and busy dad, Olson has built a substantial following by translating complex development, zoning, and preservation issues into accessible, fact-based video content. Via his Instagram presence @The.Bill.Olson and via YouTube, he creates relatable, sharable content, prioritizing clarity over commentary and empowering residents to engage thoughtfully with issues shaping their city. With tens of thousands of followers and over a thousand videos produced, his work has amplified public awareness around key preservation topics, from rezoning debates to demolition concerns. By encouraging informed participation and highlighting the importance of civic engagement, Olson has expanded the reach of preservation advocacy beyond traditional audiences, demonstrating the vital role of communication in shaping Charleston’s future. 

The Stoney Craftsmanship Award recognizes craftspeople who have kept alive Charleston’s tradition of excellence in the building trades. 

Jeff Emig | Jeff Emig is recognized for his exceptional craftsmanship in masonry, stucco, plaster, and tile, skills essential to the preservation of Charleston’s historic fabric. Having honed his expertise through years of work on significant projects, including the restoration of the Sottile Theatre, Emig has built a reputation for precision and dedication to traditional methods. His work is widely respected by peers and collaborators, who value his ability to execute complex restoration tasks with both technical skill and artistic sensitivity. By maintaining and advancing these specialized trades, Emig plays a critical role in ensuring that historic buildings are not only preserved but authentically restored using the materials and techniques that define their character. 

Picquet Roofing | Picquet Roofing will receive the Stoney Award for their long-standing commitment to excellence in traditional roofing systems. Established in 1929, this third-generation, family-owned company is the oldest roofing firm in Charleston, carrying on a legacy rooted in craftsmanship and reliability. Specializing in materials such as copper, slate, tile, and metal, Piquet Roofing has contributed to the preservation of countless historic structures across the region. Their work reflects a deep understanding of both historic techniques and modern performance standards. By sustaining and elevating a highly specialized trade, the company continues to play an indispensable role in protecting Charleston’s architectural heritage. 

About Historic Charleston Foundation: Established in 1947, Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF) is a preservation advocacy organization whose mission is to advocate for a future for Charleston that honors and protects its people, places, culture, and community. In its 79th year, the Foundation is known for its preservation advocacy programs including protective covenants and easements; education and outreach; and it is the first organization in the country to establish a revolving fund to acquire and preserve historic buildings, a model now replicated in historic communities across the nation. HCF is also the proud steward of two historic house museums: the Nathaniel Russell House, c. 1808 and the Aiken-Rhett House, c. 1820., both open to the public for tours daily. HistoricCharleston.org 

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Woman owner leads team providing end-to-end sign and branding solutions for businesses 

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (Apr. 27, 2026) —Signarama® , the world’s largest sign and graphics franchise, has opened a new location at 7448 Stafford Road, Suite 604 in Northwoods Business Park.The shop is locally owned byentrepreneur Lisa Wright, who looks forward to helping local businesses stand out with attention-getting marketing materials. 

As part of the global Signarama network, the North Charleston location provides a full range of custom sign and graphics services for businesses, organizations, and commercial clients. Other offerings include illuminated signs, window decals, banners, murals, real estate signs, and visual branding solutions designed to help companies increase visibility and strengthen brand recognition. 

“I’m excited about meeting people in the community and helping local businesses get to the next level,” said Wright, a former dental management consultant. “At Signarama, we are more than just sign makers. When we work with our clients, we consider ourselves a team who takes the time to learn their business goals and how we can help to achieve them.” 

Wright worked in the dental field for 23 years, working her way up the ranks from an assistant, office manager and most recently as a management consultant. A native of Port Robinson, Ontario, and the past four years living in Mexico, Wright now resides with her husband and two children in the Historical District of Summerville. In her spare time, Wright enjoys cooking and traveling and is a passionate practitioner of mixed martial arts.   

The 2,500-square-foot North Charleston facility is equipped with modern sign-making technology and offers personalized, one-on-one consultations to ensure each project aligns with the client’s business goals, location requirements, and target audience.  

Signarama in North Charleston is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 843-604-0220, visit the showroom, or go to Signarama. 

About Signarama

Signarama®, the world’s leading sign franchise, offers branding and messaging solutions in addition to comprehensive sign and graphic services to consumers and commercial customers – from business signs, vehicle wraps, and digital signs, to advertising and marketing services. Signarama is a member of the United Franchise Group™ family of affiliated brands and consultants. As part of a $49-billion-plus worldwide sign market, Signarama has been at the forefront of the sign industry for four decades. For more information, visit www.signarama.com. For more information on the Signarama franchise opportunity, visit www.signaramafranchise.com.  

About United Franchise Group  

Led by Chairman and CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group™ (UFG) is a globally recognized leader in franchising, home to an award-winning family of brands and franchise consulting services. With over 1,600 franchises across more than 60 countries, UFG empowers entrepreneurs through proven franchise systems, multi-unit growth opportunities, and industry-leading support. Its portfolio includes iconic brands like Signarama®, Fully Promoted®, Black Optix Tint®, Transworld Business Advisors®, Exit Factor®, Accurate Franchising™, Franchise Real Estate™, and thriving food concepts under Big Flavor Brands™, such as The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill® and Graze Craze®. With 40 years of franchising experience, UFG and its expert consultants have helped develop over 350 successful franchise brands, supporting thousands of franchisees worldwide. From B2B services to fast-casual dining, UFG offers scalable, high-demand business opportunities backed by comprehensive training, marketing, and operations support. Entrepreneurs choose UFG to lead in their local markets and grow with a trusted network that’s driving the future of franchising. With a commitment to rapid growth, UFG continues to expand its global footprint, helping franchise owners thrive in local markets worldwide.  

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US sugar candy category leader to invest $675 million, projected to create 1,000 new jobs over 10 years

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Ferrara Candy Company (Ferrara), a leading sugar confectioner in the United States, Brazil and Europe, today announced plans to establish its first South Carolina operation in Orangeburg County. The company’s $675 million investment is projected to create 1,000 manufacturing and corporate jobs over the next 10 years. 

Headquartered in Chicago for 118 years, Ferrara operates a network of more than 30 facilities worldwide and employs more than 9,400 people. Its products are sold in over 60 countries and span a portfolio of more than 40 iconic brands including NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, Trolli®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly® in the U.S., Terry’s and Carambar in Europe, and Dori in Brazil. Ferrara is a privately held Ferrero-affiliated company.

Ferrara’s new operation will be located at Highway 21 and Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, where the company plans to construct a 750,000-square-foot manufacturing facility including processing and packaging, a warehouse for raw and pack materials, and an administrative office. The investment will support Ferrara’s high level of consumer demand and strengthen its position as a leader in sugar confections.

The first production lines in the new facility are expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2029. Individuals interested in joining the Ferrara team should visit readySC’s recruitment website, https://ferrara.readyscjobs.com/. Companies interested in becoming a supplier or vendor for Ferrara should complete the online interest form.

After the Joint Bond Review Committee recommended approval, the State Fiscal Accountability Authority authorized the issuance of General Obligation State Economic Development Bonds in a principal amount not exceeding $85 million to offset the cost of acquiring the site, site improvements and related infrastructure.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development also approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES

“Our new Orangeburg facility represents a major step forward in transforming Ferrara’s manufacturing scale and capability, positioning the company for long-term global leadership. We are excited about the opportunity to inspire sweetness in the Palmetto State, and we are grateful to the leadership of Governor McMaster, Secretary Lightsey and their teams, and the Orangeburg County officials, in their partnership and effort to bring us to South Carolina.” -Ferrara Chief Executive Officer Marco Capurso

“Today marks a transformative moment for Orangeburg County and all of South Carolina. Ferrara Candy Company’s $675 million investment in the Midlands is a powerful vote of confidence in our state that will bring many new opportunities for our people. We are proud Ferrara has chosen South Carolina as a place to build their future and look forward to the company’s continued success here.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are excited to welcome Ferrara Candy Company to the Palmetto State. This milestone investment in Orangeburg County, as well as the addition of 1,000 new quality jobs in South Carolina, is set to transform the community, strengthen the workforce and fuel economic prosperity for generations to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Orangeburg County is excited to add Ferrara Candy Company to a growing list of international companies that have discovered the advantages we offer business and industry. We look forward to partnering with them as we strive together to make our community a better place to live and work.” -Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Ferrara Candy Company (Ferrara) selects Orangeburg County for its first South Carolina operation.
• The company’s $675 million investment is projected to create 1,000 new jobs over 10 years.
• Ferrara is a leading global manufacturer of sugar confections, under well-known brands such as NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, Trolli®, Brach’s® and Jelly Belly® in the U.S., Terry’s and Carambar in Europe, and Dori in Brazil.
• The company will be located at Highway 21 and Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Ferrara team should visit readySC’s recruitment website.

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