Lowcountry

Signature Foods USA selects Anderson County for first South Carolina operation

April 13, 2026 by 0 Comments

$11.5 million investment will create 202 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Signature Foods USA, a specialty food products manufacturer, today announced it selects Anderson County for its first South Carolina operation. The company’s $11.5 million investment will create 202 new jobs. 

A division of the Netherlands-based company Signature Foods, Signature Foods USA produces premium refrigerated prepared foods for the American market including prepared meats and cheeses, dips, spreads, wraps, and rolls. Signature Foods USA is headquartered in New York City, and the Anderson County plant is the company’s first manufacturing operation in the U.S.

Signature Foods USA’s new manufacturing facility, located at 211 Pine Road in Easley, will produce high-quality dips and spreads to be sold in the deli section of retail grocery stores. 

Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Signature Foods USA team should contact the company’s Human Resources Manager Corderiette Calhoun (corderiette.calhoun@signaturefoods.com).

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $400,000 Set-Aside grant to Anderson County to assist with the costs of building improvements and wastewater pre-system upgrades.



QUOTES

“After a long selection process, Anderson County in South Carolina was our number one choice for starting the first U.S. operation for our Dutch Group, Signature Foods NL. We believe that this location in Easley will be the foundation for the long-term growth of our business in the U.S. We would like to thank all people, companies and government officials involved in this project for their support.” -Signature Foods USA CEO Peter Dornbos

“South Carolina’s strong business-friendly reputation makes it the ideal location for Signature Foods USA’s new operation. The addition of 202 new jobs will have a great impact on Anderson County, and we look forward to the company’s success in our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“Congratulations to Signature Foods USA on establishing operations here in the Palmetto State. With an investment of $11.5 million, the company will further South Carolina’s economic development in the Upstate.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“I’m glad to welcome Signature Foods USA to South Carolina. This manufacturing facility will not only expand South Carolina’s agribusiness industry, but will also provide opportunities to add value to foods grown by South Carolina farmers.” -Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers

“Signature Foods USA’s decision to establish operations in Anderson County reflects the strength of our business climate and the quality of our workforce. We are honored by their investment, and we are especially encouraged by the addition of good‑paying jobs that will directly benefit families in Northern Anderson County. This project represents meaningful, long‑term opportunity for our community.” -Anderson County Councilman Jimmy Davis

“By selecting Upstate SC to prepare its premium food products, Signature Foods USA is validating that our region has the right ingredients for global food and beverage companies to succeed. We look forward to seeing them grow in the Upstate.”  -Upstate SC Alliance President and CEO John Lummus

FIVE FAST FACTS

  • Signature Foods USA selects Anderson County for its first South Carolina operation.
  • The company’s $11.5 million investment will create 202 new jobs.
  • Signature Foods USA is a specialty food products manufacturer.
  • The company will be located at 211 Pine Road in Easley, S.C.
  • Individuals interested in joining the Signature Foods USA team should contact the company’s Human Resources Manager Corderiette Calhoun (corderiette.calhoun@signaturefoods.com).
Lowcountry

Sugar & Spice in the Holy City: A Guide to Charleston’s Most Irresistible Desserts

April 13, 2026 by 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

Jay’s Delight

Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its rich history, coastal elegance, and celebrated culinary scene. Yet beyond its acclaimed restaurants lies a world of decadent delights crafted by masterful pastry chefs and visionary bakers. From delicate French pastries to nostalgic Southern confections, these six dessert destinations offer a taste of the city’s sweetest artistry. Here’s your guide to the finest indulgences in the Holy City.

Weltons Tiny Bakeshop

Location: 682 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

Website: https://www.weltontinybakeshop.com

Refined, intimate, and utterly enchanting, Weltons Tiny Bakeshop is a jewel of Upper King Street. Helmed by James Beard Award–winning pastry chef Rebecca Wilcomb, the shop blends classical French technique with Southern warmth. Named after her son, Welton’s offers exquisitely crafted croissants, éclairs, seasonal tarts, and whimsical sweets that reflect both artistry and heart. Each bite is a testament to Wilcomb’s celebrated career and Charleston’s evolving culinary sophistication.

Weltons Tiny Bakeshop


WildFlour Pastry

Location: 1750 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407

Website: https://www.wildflourpastrycharleston.com

A beloved West Ashley treasure, WildFlour Pastry is known for its comforting charm and irresistible creations. Founded by acclaimed pastry chef Lauren Mitterer, the bakery specializes in handcrafted delights such as gooey sticky buns, decadent brownies, and inventive seasonal treats. The cozy courtyard and welcoming ambiance make it a favorite retreat for locals seeking both indulgence and inspiration.

Bakehouse Charleston

Location: 160 East Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

Website: https://www.bakehousecharleston.com

Situated near the historic Charleston City Market, Bakehouse Charleston evokes the romance of a European café. Known for its scratch-made cakes, cookies, and tarts, this charming destination is perfect for a leisurely dessert paired with coffee. Its dedication to quality ingredients and timeless techniques makes it a staple in the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.

Bakehouse Charleston


Dolce Bakery

Location: Charleston, SC

Website: https://dolcebakerycharleston.com

Elegant and celebratory, Dolce Bakery is synonymous with artistry and sophistication. Specializing in custom cakes, French-inspired pastries, and delicate confections, the bakery is known for its impeccable attention to detail. Each dessert is thoughtfully designed, making Dolce a go-to for weddings, special events, and unforgettable sweet moments.

Bakies at I’On

Location: 264 N Shelmore Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Website: https://bakiessc.com

Just across the Cooper River, Bakies at I’On offers a warm and inviting neighborhood experience. Founded by baker Gail Holdcraft, the bakery is beloved for its handcrafted cupcakes, cookies, and custom cakes. With over two decades of experience, Holdcraft brings passion and precision to every dessert, creating treats that feel both nostalgic and celebratory.

Bakies at I’on

Jay’s Delight

Location: Charleston, SC

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaysdelightllc

Jay’s Delight adds soulful sweetness to Charleston’s dessert scene. Known for homemade pound cakes, banana pudding, and custom cupcakes, this boutique bakery embraces traditional Southern flavors with a modern flair. Each confection is crafted with care, offering a heartfelt taste of Lowcountry hospitality.

The Sweet Finale

Charleston’s dessert destinations reflect the same elegance and creativity that define the city itself. Whether savoring a perfectly laminated croissant at Welton’s, indulging in a sticky bun from WildFlour, or delighting in a classic Southern pound cake, these bakeries capture the essence of Charleston—warm, artful, and unforgettable.

Editorial Note: For the ultimate experience, plan a self-guided dessert tour through the peninsula and beyond. After all, in Charleston, life is always a little sweeter. 

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Lowcountry

Sip Happens: Five Charleston Brews Making Waves in the Lowcountry

April 10, 2026 by 0 Comments

By Mark A Leon

Charleston’s thriving craft beer industry continues to gain national recognition, blending European tradition with innovative American brewing techniques. From hazy IPAs to crisp coastal lagers, the Lowcountry offers a diverse selection that reflects both its culture and climate. Here are five standout local beers that define Charleston’s dynamic brewing scene.

Sungazer IPA — Charles Towne Fermentory

A flagship of Charleston’s modern craft movement, Sungazer IPA is a hazy New England–style brew celebrated for its juicy character. Notes of mango, pineapple, and citrus create a fruit-forward profile, while its soft mouthfeel and low bitterness make it exceptionally approachable. It remains one of the region’s most sought-after IPAs.

Westbrook Gose — Westbrook Brewing Co.

This award-winning beer helped revive the ancient German gose style in the United States. Light and refreshing, it features a distinctive balance of tart citrus acidity, coriander spice, and a subtle hint of sea salt. Its crisp finish makes it especially suited to Charleston’s warm, coastal climate.

Brugge City Brune — Munkle Brewing Co.

Inspired by traditional Belgian brewing methods, Brugge City Brune delivers a rich and complex experience. Layers of caramel, toasted malt, and dark fruit are complemented by the nuanced character of Belgian yeast. The result is a smooth, balanced ale that pays homage to Old World craftsmanship.


Never Sunny IPA — Revelry Brewing Co.

A staple of Charleston’s craft beer scene, Never Sunny IPA offers bold aromas of grapefruit, pine, and tropical citrus. Its balanced bitterness and clean finish make it a reliable favorite among locals and visitors alike, embodying the city’s laid-back yet adventurous spirit.

Island Coastal Lager — Low Tide Brewing

This easy-drinking lager captures the essence of the Lowcountry. Light-bodied and refreshing, it features subtle malt sweetness and a crisp, clean finish. Designed for warm Southern days, it has become a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and approachable brew.


A Toast to the Lowcountry

Charleston’s breweries continue to elevate the region’s reputation as a premier craft beer destination. Whether rooted in European tradition or inspired by coastal living, these five selections showcase the creativity, quality, and character that define the Holy City’s vibrant beer culture.

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Lowcountry

Conversations of Freedom: The American Revolution at Middleton Place opens April 11, 2026 – A remarkable insight into our nations beginnings

April 10, 2026 by 0 Comments
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Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution at a Home of a Signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Middleton Place is one of only eleven remaining sites in the United States where visitors can experience the birthplace, home, and landscape associated with a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

In 1776, at just 34 years old, Arthur Middleton signed the Declaration, risking his fortune, his family’s security, and his life in pursuit of independence from Great Britain. The following year, he left the Continental Congress to serve South Carolina more directly. When Charleston fell to British forces in 1780, Middleton was arrested and imprisoned in St. Augustine, Florida. After his release in a prisoner exchange, he returned to Congress in Philadelphia, determined to see the war end in American victory.


Arthur Middleton died at Middleton Place on January 1, 1787 at age 45, only three years after the British formally surrendered. He left behind his wife, Mary Izard Middleton, and their eight children, along with a legacy deeply entwined with both the founding ideals of the nation and the realities of enslavement that shaped life at Middleton Place.

As a National Historic Landmark with profound Revolutionary-era connections, Middleton Place offers a rare Lowcountry setting to explore the layered meanings of liberty and independence. The 250th anniversary of the American Revolution presents an unprecedented opportunity, and responsibility, to examine this history with greater clarity, context, and moral rigor.

As we mark this milestone, we invite you to visit Middleton Place and engage with one of the core stories of our nation: freedom. Throughout the year, visitors can participate in public programs including lectures, guided tours, special events, and hands-on activities for all ages.


A Human-Centered Interpretation of the Revolution

Central to this commemoration is a new exhibition, Conversations of Freedom: The American Revolution at Middleton Place, funded in part by the SC 250th Commission. Presented in the South Flanker House Museum, the exhibition features remarkable 18th-century textiles worn by Henry and Arthur Middleton, alongside a rare silk edition of the Declaration of Independence.

Rather than focusing solely on political milestones, Conversations of Freedom centers the human experience of the Revolutionary period (1770–1783). Visitors will encounter the lives of Arthur Middleton and his family alongside the experiences of the many people they enslaved, revealing how revolutionary ideals were debated, lived, and constrained in practice. Through immersive period rooms and personal narratives, the exhibition examines themes of war, displacement, resistance, and survival, asking visitors to consider who freedom served, who it excluded, and how its meaning has evolved.

Conversations of Freedom: The American Revolution at Middleton Place opens to the public in April and is included with general admission.  Get ticket here

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Lowcountry

Adidas adding 300 jobs to Spartanburg, South Carolina Distribution Center

April 9, 2026 by 0 Comments
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Adidas is adding 300 full-time positions to its Spartanburg, South Carolina distribution center. The Portland, Ore.-based company is hiring Warehouse Operations Associates and Forklift Operators across all shifts with most openings for night shift.  

Shifts include: Day (Monday – Thursday from 7am-5:30pm), Night (Monday – Thursday from 6pm-4:30am), and Weekend (Friday- Sunday from 7am-7:30pm). 

The company is offering competitive pay starting at $19.75/per hour for Warehouse Operations Associates,$22/per hour for Forklift Operators and $27.50/per hour for Sr. Forklift Operators, plus benefits including health, vision and dental insurance, up to four weeks of flexible time off, 401k matching, tuition reimbursement, performance program and adidas discounts. 

“Our distribution centers are the backbone of our operations,” said James Furlong, SVP Supply Chain Management, adidas North America. “Adding 300 new positions strengthens our network and enhances our ability to meet increased consumer demand with the speed and quality our customers expect, especially during moments of global excitement like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics.” 

Job seekers can learn more and apply for the open roles online at adidas.com/careers. adidas is also hosting in-person hiring events at SCC (Tyger River Campus) – Spark Center now through May.  

Source: One Spartanburg Inc.

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Lowcountry

City of Charleston, SC Cuts Permit Backlog, Improves Efficiency and Customer Service

April 8, 2026 by 0 Comments
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Since taking office, Mayor Cogswell has prioritized improving the City of Charleston’s Permit Center to make the process more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly for both residents and staff. Those efforts are already delivering measurable results.

Over the past year, the City has significantly streamlined permitting operations without compromising its high development standards. In 2025 alone, the City issued more than 16,000 permits.

Key improvements include:

  • Dramatic reduction in backlog: Technical Review Committee (TRC) cases decreased from 67 in early 2024 to just 5 today.
  • Expanded online access: Nearly all trade permits are now available online, with approximately 80% of total workload handled online or by phone, reducing the need for in-person visits.
  • Faster turnaround times: Clearly defined over-the-counter permits can now be approved the same day, a major benefit for smaller residential projects.
  • Improved transparency: Online status updates and enhanced application guides help users better understand the process and requirements.
  • Streamlined processes: Updates to the certificate of occupancy (CO) and project closeout process have addressed long-standing pain points.
  • Better coordination: A centralized Development Services structure ensures departments are aligned and reviews are no longer siloed.
  • Proactive problem-solving: Pre-submittal meetings with builders help identify and resolve issues early, improving outcomes and saving time.
  • Enhanced customer support: A Charleston Fire Department representative is now stationed at the Permit Center to assist with fire-related permitting questions in real time.

The Permit Center team has also expanded, growing from four staff members to a team of coordinators and permit technicians who now handle additional responsibilities, including certificate of occupancy processing and license checks. Walk-in hours have been extended from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. to better serve the public.

“I’ve made modernizing and streamlining city processes a priority since taking office, and improving the Permit Center has been central to that effort,” said Mayor Cogswell. “We want this to be a place people can rely on, where they know they’ll receive accurate, timely service from a team that’s focused on getting the job done right.”

The City is also planning additional enhancements, including a redesigned home permits portal and new public education panels to help residents better understand the permitting process for projects such as single-family construction.

These efforts have already gained recognition beyond Charleston. The Home Builders Association has highlighted the City’s website as a model for other municipalities, and Tyler Technologies has identified Charleston as a showcase for best practices.

City officials emphasized that these improvements were achieved without loosening development regulations. Instead, the focus has been on efficiency, clarity, and service.

Source: City of Charleston, SC

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Lowcountry

Eaton to add 300 jobs in Asheville, NC region

April 8, 2026 by 0 Comments
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Growth at Arden and Avery Creek sites driven by demand for electrical equipment

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Eaton plans to add about 300 jobs in Buncombe County over the next year, expanding operations at its Arden and Avery Creek facilities to meet growing demand for its electrical equipment products.

The company said Tuesday the new positions will support increased production of its Low Voltage Assembly product line, citing rising national demand. The expansion is expected to boost manufacturing capacity in the Asheville area while creating what officials described as high-tech, high-wage jobs.

Eaton, a global power management firm with operations in more than 175 countries and a workforce of roughly 92,000, has maintained a presence in the Asheville area since 1977, when its local facility began as Westinghouse Electric. The company currently employs nearly 1,500 people across its Buncombe County sites.

“We are excited about the growth opportunities here at Eaton in Asheville,” said Susana Guillen, plant manager for the Arden facility. “We have a great product and a great workforce and will need to fill more well-paying positions to satisfy our customers’ needs.”

Local officials welcomed the announcement, pointing to its potential impact on jobs and the regional economy.

Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards said the investment reflects the strength of the area’s workforce and will help expand economic opportunities for residents.

“Economic development begins with strengthening and supporting longtime local employers like Eaton,” Edwards said, adding the expansion would help grow household incomes and the county’s tax base.

Carol Steen, chair of the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County, said the move marks the seventh major manufacturing expansion announced in Buncombe County since Tropical Storm Helene, signaling continued economic recovery in the region.

Company officials said hiring is expected to ramp up over the next 12 months. More information about job opportunities is available on the company’s website and at upcoming regional hiring events, including the WNC Career Expo on April 16.

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Source: 828 News Now

Lowcountry

South Carolina Sees Three James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award Nominations for 2026 (2 from Charleston)

April 7, 2026 by 0 Comments
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By Mark A. Lemon

South Carolina is once again stepping into the national culinary spotlight, earning three prestigious nominations from the James Beard Foundation for its 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards. Often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world,” these honors recognize excellence across the country, and this year the Palmetto State is proudly represented in categories spanning Best Chef: Southeast, Outstanding Bakery, and Best New Restaurant. The nominations highlight not only the state’s growing reputation as a food destination, but also the creativity and craftsmanship emerging from its kitchens and bakeries.

Leading the charge is Joe Cash of Scoundrel in Greenville, who earned a nod for Best Chef: Southeast, a highly competitive category covering six states. Meanwhile, Charleston continues to shine with two standout nominations: Weltons Tiny Bakeshop is recognized in the Outstanding Bakery category, and Merci lands on the coveted Best New Restaurant list. Together, these nominations underscore South Carolina’s dynamic and evolving food scene—one that blends Southern tradition with bold, modern innovation on a national stage.

South Carolina saw nominations in three categories: Best Chef: Southeast; Outstanding Bakery; and Best New Restaurant. The full list of nominees in each category are as follows:

Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)

  • Joe Cash, Scoundrel, Greenville, SC
  • Mary Ellen Diaz, Alma Bea, Shepherdstown, WV
  • J. Trent Harris, Mujō, Atlanta, GA
  • Taylor Montgomery, Montgomery Sky Farm, Leicester, NC
  • David Willocks, The Baker’s Table, Newport, KY

Outstanding Bakery

  • Cultured, Sister Bay, WI
  • Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop, Anchorage, AK
  • Super Secret Ice Cream, Bethlehem, NH
  • Weltons Tiny Bakeshop, Charleston, SC
  • Wild Crumb, Bozeman, MT

Best New Restaurant

  • 1033 Omakase, Milwaukee, WI
  • Agnes and Sherman, Houston, TX
  • Anjin, Kansas City, MO
  • Emmett, Philadelphia, PA
  • Ki, Los Angeles, CA
  • Lei, New York, NY
  • Maison Bar à Vins, Washington, D.C.
  • Merci, Charleston, SC
  • Robin, St. Louis, MO
  • Tamba, Las Vegas, NV

Tickets for the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards in Chicago can be purchased here.

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Lowcountry

Top New Things This Spring (2026) in Charleston, South Carolina

April 7, 2026 by 0 Comments

SONDER

WHAT: WINE BAR + RETAIL SHOP

WHERE:  90 CANNON STREET, CHARLESTON

Guests are invited to experience Sonder, a welcoming wine bar concept founded by Michelle Kauczka and Jillian Schenzel, built on a shared vision of inclusivity and connection. Designed for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers, Sonder offers a relaxed space to explore wine, discover new flavors, and gather over thoughtfully paired food and conversation.

Annie Mae's Bakeshop

ANNIE MAE’S BAKESHOP

WHAT: BAKERY

WHERE:  185 SAINT PHILIP STREET, CHARLESTON

Annie Mae’s Bakeshop, founded by Jason and Annie Vieira, is a Southern-inspired bakery in Charleston, South Carolina. Known for its biscuits, pies, cakes by the slice, pastry-driven coffee, and hand-blended teas, the bakery started as a micro bread operation serving local restaurants and now welcomes guests at its pink-painted location on 185 Saint Philip Street.

Koko’s on the Pier

KOKO’S ON THE PIER

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  101 E. ARCTIC AVENUE, FOLLY BEACH

Koko’s on the Pier Tiki Kitchen & Bar brings laid-back island energy to the “Edge of America” with its Follynesian-inspired concept. Located on the historic Folly Beach Fishing Pier, the restaurant pairs tropical flavors and cold drinks with live music and ocean views for a vibrant, beachside dining experience.

on air

ON AIR STUDIO

WHAT: VENUE

WHERE:  565 KING STREET, CHARLESTON

On Air Studio and On Air Live in Charleston bring music lovers together across two floors. Upstairs, On Air Studio offers an intimate, lounge-style house music experience with world-class sound, VIP service, and curated DJ sets. Downstairs, On Air Live blends rock and country in a warm, rustic honky-tonk setting with nightly live performances, a full bar, and a lively dance floor—celebrating Charleston’s vibrant local music scene.

palmetto row

PALMETTO ROW

WHAT: RETAIL SPACE

WHERE:  395-A KING STREET, CHARLESTON

Palmetto Row Collectives, located on King Street in Charleston, provides local entrepreneurs a shared retail space to showcase their brands. Bringing together independent businesses, creatives, and small shops under one roof, it offers a supportive, collaborative environment that fosters growth, visibility, and a dynamic shopping experience for the community.

the drop in

THE DROP IN

WHAT: FITNESS STUDIO

WHERE:  1118 KING STREET, CHARLESTON

The Drop In is a hybrid movement and experience studio redefining boutique fitness in downtown Charleston. Blending rhythm-based cycling, somatic mat movement, and dance, the studio creates an immersive environment that fosters both physical strength and mind-body connection—offering an intentional, community-driven alternative to the traditional gym experience.

bareo

BAREO

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  73 SPRING STREET, CHARLESTON

Bareo is a new neighborhood restaurant inspired by baryo—the Tagalog word for “neighborhood”—and rooted in the spirit of Cannonborough–Elliotborough. Open daily from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Bareo offers a casual yet elevated gathering place where food and friendship take center stage, blending diverse culinary traditions with playful design elements to create a space that feels both familiar and fresh.

Giannone

GIANNONE 

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  219 SIMMONS STREET, MOUNT PLEASANT

Giannone is a welcoming wine shop, mercantile, and focacceria rooted in the Italian tradition of gathering around good food and conversation. Celebrating connection through thoughtfully curated wines, handcrafted sandwiches, and warm hospitality, Giannone offers a space where friends become family and every visit feels like coming home.

Serena & Lily

SERENA & LILY

WHAT: FURNITURE STORE

WHERE:  32 CUMBERLAND STREET, CHARLESTON

Serena & Lily creates homes with character, offering thoughtfully designed furniture and décor that blend beauty, comfort, and functionality. Each piece is crafted to enhance daily life, welcome guests, and celebrate the moments that make a house a home.

OK DONNA

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  1117 KING STREET, CHARLESTON

Ok Donna opens its doors at 1117 King Street, serving pizza, pasta, and Italian-ish favorites in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Not aiming to be a formal Italian restaurant, k Donna is a spot for neighbors and friends to gather, enjoy good food, and hang out any day of the week.

babas on meeting

BABAS ON WENTWORTH

WHAT: CAFE AND BAR

WHERE:  115 WENTWORTH STREET, CHARLESTON

Babas on Wentworth is officially open! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week, the vibrant new spot invites guests to enjoy fresh flavors and a lively atmosphere.

The Peach Cobbler Factory

THE PEACH COBBLER FACTORY

WHAT: DESSERT CAFE

WHERE:  28 WOOLFE STREET, CHARLESTON

Since 2013, the Peach Cobbler Factory has been delighting guests with desserts that capture the warmth of grandma’s kitchen. From classic cobblers and banana puddings to cinnamon rolls, shakes, and cookies, every treat is crafted with care and love, offering a sweet experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

LOOK UP CHARLESTON

WHAT: GIFT EMPORIUM AND ART GALLERY

WHERE:  128 MEETING STREET, CHARLESTON

Look Up Charleston, the city’s newest indoor art, fashion, and gift collective, brings together artwork, jewelry, gifts, clothing, vintage fashion, studio and event space, and even acting classes—all under one creative roof.

Bar Weems

BAR WEEMS

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  1921 REYNOLDS AVENUE, NORTH CHARLESTON

Bar Weems in Charleston serves late-night fare Wednesday through Saturday from 5 PM to 1 AM, offering noodles, cocktails, and more. Guests can enjoy flavorful bites until 12:30 AM in a lively, welcoming setting.

hidden house

THE HIDDEN HOUSE

WHAT: CAFE AND BAR

WHERE:  21 BURNS LANE, CHARLESTON

The Hidden House, created by the team behind 360 King and Love & Bunches, is a thoughtfully designed space inspired by a love of beautiful gatherings and meaningful connection. Blending elevated style with an easy, welcoming ambiance, it offers a serene setting to slow down, share conversation, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures—a true hidden gem.

America's Park

AMERICAN GARDENS

WHAT: PARK

WHERE:  174 KING STREET, CHARLESTON

American Gardens is a nearly one-acre public greenspace in the heart of the city, offering a welcoming place where history, nature, and community come together. Open to all, the gardens honor the enduring ideals of hope and opportunity.

cachitas

CACHITA’S KITCHEN

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  6 N MARKET STREET, CHARLESTON

Cachita’s Kitchen is a local favorite food truck created by best friends Erik Hernandez and Jose Cruz. Known as “Cachita,” Cruz draws on his roots in Mexico to craft fresh, authentic dishes each day, bringing heart and tradition to every meal.

ladybird books

LADYBIRD BOOKS

WHAT: BOOKSTORE

WHERE:  299 KING STREET, CHARLESTON

Ladybird Books, a new independent bookstore founded by Summer Anderson of “Summer Says,” has opened on King Street. Designed as a welcoming community “third place,” the shop features thoughtfully curated selections and unique shelving, including a standout non-fiction section, How to Be a Human.

Shokudô

SHOKUDÔ

WHAT: RESTAURANT

WHERE:  479B KING STREET, CHARLESTON

Shokudō, a modern Japanese izakaya, opens October 30 on King Street. Led by Tokyo-trained Chef Partner Masatomo “Masa” Hamaya, the restaurant offers an authentic yet contemporary experience centered around a traditional robata grill. Guests can also explore the lively Japanese Beer Garden, inspired by Tokyo’s vibrant late-night alleys.

Source: Charming Inns

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Lowcountry

Charleston, SC Father Files Patent for First Contactless Infrared Skin Temperature Baby Wellness Monitor

April 7, 2026 by 0 Comments
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Nonnanest introduces SightAware™, a non-wearable baby monitor that tracks skin temperature from across the crib with no WiFi, no app, and no subscription

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C., April 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nonnanest, Inc., a baby wellness technology company founded in Charleston, SC, today announced that its flagship product, SightAware™ by Nonnanest, has achieved patent-pending status. SightAware is a contactless infrared baby wellness monitor that reads skin temperature from up to four feet away, without requiring a wearable sensor, WiFi connectivity, or a smartphone app.

Founder and CEO Nathan Overbey designed SightAware after a personal experience revealed a gap in the baby monitor market.

The SightAware 5-inch HD parent display shows real-time skin temperature and room temperature contactlessly. No phone, app, or WiFi required.
The SightAware 5-inch HD parent display shows real-time skin temperature and room temperature contactlessly. No phone, app, or WiFi required.

The SightAware nursery camera uses contactless infrared sensing to read skin temperature from up to four feet away, with no wearable required.
The SightAware nursery camera uses contactless infrared sensing to read skin temperature from up to four feet away, with no wearable required.

“When our son was six months old, he woke up in the middle of the night crying, and he was obviously warm,” said Overbey. “I looked back at the monitor we had and all it could tell me was the room temperature. In that moment I thought, how long had his skin temperature been rising? Why isn’t there something that could have told me that? After months of research I realized there was nothing on the market that worked offline, nothing that offered truly secure connectivity, and nothing that didn’t require strapping a sensor to the baby. The market doesn’t need another high-resolution camera. It needs more awareness.”

SightAware uses a proprietary infrared sensor array to read surface skin temperature contactlessly, similar to the technology used in pediatric no-touch thermometers. The video and skin temperature data transmit via FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum), a secure wireless protocol that hops across 80+ frequency channels per second. All data stays local between the nursery camera and a dedicated 5-inch HD parent display. No internet required, no external servers, no accounts to create.

“We made a deliberate decision to keep SightAware offline,” said Overbey. “Parents consistently tell us they’re concerned about connected devices and the security risks that come with them. We didn’t want to bring a product to market that didn’t meet the highest security standards, so we built it on FHSS, a fully encrypted signal that never touches the internet. We also felt strongly that parents shouldn’t be forced to use their phone as the display. A dedicated screen means the monitor works independently. No app, no notifications competing for your attention, no phone battery to worry about at 2 AM.”

Key features of SightAware by Nonnanest include:

  • Contactless infrared skin temperature sensing up to 4 feet
  • FHSS secure wireless transmission, no WiFi or Bluetooth required
  • Dedicated 5-inch HD parent display, no phone or app needed
  • Real-time skin temperature and room temperature awareness
  • Customizable comfort thresholds with gentle audible alerts
  • 355-degree pan, 60-degree tilt, two-way audio, lullabies, and infrared night vision
  • 5-minute setup with crib mount and wall mount included

SightAware is priced at $329 with no subscription fees or recurring costs. The product is expected to be available for purchase in spring 2026 at nonnanest.com.

Overbey brings over 15 years of enterprise technology experience from Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Blackbaud, and holds an MBA from the University of South Carolina.

Nonnanest is a wellness device, not a medical device, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Skin temperature readings are for informational purposes only to help parents be aware of general wellness and comfort. For any health concerns, always consult a pediatrician or qualified healthcare provider.

About Nonnanest Nonnanest, Inc. is a Charleston, SC-based baby wellness technology company founded in 2024 by Nathan Overbey. Learn more at nonnanest.com.

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