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

By Mark A Leon

For more than six decades, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom has inspired generations to look beyond their backyards and into the remarkable world of wildlife. This week, the iconic series once again proved why its mission remains as relevant as ever—not simply celebrating nature’s beauty, but championing the science, partnerships, and everyday actions needed to protect it.

During an engaging conversation with co-hosts Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, conservation took center stage. Their stories from the field, reflections on the challenges facing wildlife, and unwavering optimism for the future underscored a simple but powerful truth: protecting endangered species requires both scientific expertise and public participation.

That message carried even greater significance as the hosts travel to South Carolina’s Turtle Survival Alliance Turtle Survival Center in Cross, SC, where Wild Kingdom films on Wednesday. The visit places one of the nation’s most important conservation facilities in the national spotlight, highlighting the extraordinary work being done in the Palmetto State to save some of the world’s most endangered turtle and tortoise species from extinction.

Peter Gros, who joined the original Wild Kingdom team alongside legendary naturalist Jim Fowler in 1985, has spent decades educating audiences about wildlife conservation, rehabilitation, and environmental stewardship. Joining him is Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant, a wildlife ecologist whose groundbreaking research on bears, lions, and human-wildlife coexistence has helped shape modern conservation science. Since becoming co-host in 2023, she has brought a fresh scientific perspective to the beloved series while continuing its longstanding tradition of making wildlife accessible to audiences of all ages.

Throughout the discussion, both hosts emphasized that firsthand experiences with wildlife often become lifelong catalysts for conservation. Dr. Wynn-Grant recalled observing female polar bears and their cubs in Churchill, Manitoba—a moment she described as unforgettable.

“We were watching female polar bears with cubs, you know, in their natural habitat. It was absolutely unforgettable,” she said.

Experiences like that, she explained, transform conservation from an abstract concept into a deeply personal responsibility.

Yet some of the greatest hope for wildlife, according to Gros, comes not from the animals themselves but from the next generation of conservationists.

After visiting a program for high school students interested in environmental careers, Gros spoke passionately about the remarkable diversity and enthusiasm he witnessed.

“There’s something special about this community here that I’ve never witnessed in all my travels,” he said, noting the broad range of racial, cultural, gender, and international backgrounds represented among students pursuing conservation.

For both hosts, inspiring young people has always been one of Wild Kingdom’s greatest strengths. The series continues to bridge generations by encouraging curiosity, fostering respect for wildlife, and demonstrating that everyone can play a role in protecting the planet.

The conversation also addressed one of conservation’s growing challenges: misinformation. Both Gros and Dr. Wynn-Grant expressed concern over the rapid spread of inaccurate information online, particularly regarding wildlife and environmental science.

“We have a commitment to factual scientific information,” Dr. Wynn-Grant said, explaining that the integrity of Wild Kingdom depends on presenting evidence-based conservation stories rooted in research rather than sensationalism.

They acknowledged that misinformation can discourage public trust and create confusion around critical environmental issues, making credible science communication more important than ever.

Equally important was their emphasis on practical conservation. Protecting wildlife is not limited to scientists working in remote field sites—it begins with everyday choices made by millions of people.

The hosts encouraged viewers to protect habitats, reduce pollution, support conservation organizations, participate in community cleanups, and oppose the illegal wildlife trade. Gros pointed to plastic pollution as one of the simplest yet most devastating examples of human impact.

“Plastics—ocean plastics really—kills them dead almost immediately,” he said, reminding audiences that small changes in daily habits can collectively save countless animals.

Those principles are put into practice every day at the Turtle Survival Alliance Turtle Survival Center in Clover. The internationally recognized facility serves as a global conservation hub, breeding and safeguarding some of the rarest turtle species on Earth while supporting research, education, and species recovery efforts around the world. By choosing to film there, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom showcased not only an extraordinary South Carolina institution but also the collaborative work of scientists, veterinarians, conservationists, and volunteers dedicated to preventing extinction.

As wildlife populations continue to face mounting pressures from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and illegal trafficking, the enduring mission of Wild Kingdom remains clear: inspire wonder, educate with integrity, and empower action.

For more than 60 years, the program has connected audiences with the natural world. Its visit to the Turtle Survival Alliance reminds viewers that some of the world’s most important conservation stories are unfolding not in distant wilderness alone, but right here in South Carolina—where dedicated professionals are working every day to ensure that endangered species have a future.

In shining a national spotlight on the Turtle Survival Alliance, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom celebrated more than remarkable animals. It celebrated the people whose passion, science, and perseverance are giving those species a second chance at survival—and reminded us all that conservation succeeds when knowledge is transformed into action.

Where can I watch Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom: Protecting the Wild?

• NBC – Airs on weekend mornings during the “The More You Know” programming block (check your local listings). 
• Peacock – New episodes are typically available about 24 hours after they air on NBC. 
• NBC.com – Episodes are available to stream for free after broadcast. 

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CHARLESTON, S.C. — From waterfront fireworks over Charleston Harbor to family festivals in the Lowcountry’s surrounding communities, the Charleston region is preparing for another Independence Day filled with patriotic celebrations, live entertainment, and spectacular fireworks displays.

Whether you’re planning to spend the holiday along the coast, in one of the area’s scenic parks, or atop a rooftop overlooking the harbor, there will be no shortage of opportunities to celebrate America’s birthday.

One of the region’s signature events is the Patriots Point Fireworks Spectacular, taking place from 7 to 10 p.m. aboard the historic grounds of Patriots Point. The annual celebration features live music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and one of the largest fireworks displays in the Charleston area.

Beachgoers can enjoy traditional fireworks shows at both Isle of Palms Front Beach and Folly Beach, with fireworks scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. at each location. Both destinations remain among the most popular Independence Day gatherings in the Lowcountry and are expected to draw large crowds.

Along the Cooper River, North Charleston’s Independence Day Celebration at Riverfront Park runs from 4 to 10 p.m., offering live performances, children’s activities, local food vendors, and a fireworks finale over the river.

Residents looking for a more community-centered celebration can head to Sullivan’s Island, where festivities are scheduled from 6 to 10 p.m., while Summerville’s Fireworks & Freedom Festival at Gahagan Park will take place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., combining live entertainment, family activities, and fireworks.

In Goose Creek, the annual Fabulous Fourth in the Creek celebration returns to the Municipal Center from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., featuring live music, food, and one of Berkeley County’s most anticipated fireworks shows.

For those seeking a unique vantage point, The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits in downtown Charleston will once again host a rooftop Independence Day celebration from 7 to 11 p.m., pairing panoramic harbor views with barbecue, cocktails, and front-row seats to the evening fireworks.

Officials encourage attendees to arrive early, as parking will be limited and heavy traffic is expected before and after the fireworks. Visitors are also encouraged to stay hydrated, prepare for summer heat, and review each venue’s policies regarding coolers, chairs, and outside food before heading out.

With celebrations stretching from Charleston Harbor to the beaches and throughout the Lowcountry, residents and visitors alike will have countless ways to commemorate the Fourth of July while enjoying one of the region’s most cherished summer traditions.

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As part of a longstanding community partnership, BofA’s Charleston team put boots on the ground at Habitat Boulevard.

KEY POINTS

• 19 Bank of America volunteers worked on roofing and weatherproofing at Habitat Boulevard jobsite, advancing the home toward completion this summer.
• BofA and Sea Island Habitat share a longstanding partnership committed to affordable homeownership and economic opportunity as the Lowcountry continues to grow.

CHARLESTON, SC – This month, the Bank of America volunteer team joined Sea Island Habitat for Humanity once again for a full day of construction work on the Habitat Boulevard home build. 19 volunteers across two shifts worked on roofing and weatherproofing the home.

Construction Progress at Habitat Blvd.

At Habitat Boulevard, construction is moving full speed ahead. Trusses and windows are installed, bringing shape to the structure and transforming it into something that already resembles a future home. 

Bank of America crews completed seismic earthquake blocking between the trusses to strengthen the structure, installed sub-fascia and roof decking, and prepared the home for siding and trim installation. Their hard work and enthusiasm made tremendous gains in construction progress and brought the home one step closer to welcoming a deserving family.

Looking ahead, siding and roof decking are next steps toward completing the Habitat Boulevard project. Every day brings visible progress, and it’s exciting to watch this home rise from the ground up. The home is expected to be completed later this summer.

“Sea Island Habitat’s work providing affordable housing is critical to the Lowcountry’s economic viability as the region continues to rapidly grow,” said Mark Munn, President, Bank of America Charleston. “Bank of America and Habitat for Humanity share a belief that access to quality, affordable homes creates pathways to economic opportunities, healthier communities, and a sustainable workforce for the Lowcountry.”

Addressing the Lowcountry’s Housing Challenge

The region faces acute housing affordability challenges related to its coastal land mass, rapidly growing population, and lower wage jobs opportunities. That is a key reason why Bank of America has a longstanding partnership with local Habitat for Humanity Chapters centered around investing in underserved communities and partnering to support organizations focused on economic opportunity.

“Sea Island Habitat for Humanity is incredibly grateful for our longstanding partnership with the local Bank of America team here in Charleston,” said, Emily Speck, Director of Development, Sea Island Habitat for Humanity. “Through generous financial support and hands-on volunteer service, Bank of America has been one of our most dedicated community partners for many years.”

Each nail hammered, inspection passed, and wall raised is made possible through the support of a community of people and organizations like Bank of America that donate, volunteer and advocate to help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.

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Recognition Highlights Blackbaud’s Measurable Efforts to Reduce Environmental Impact and Advance Sustainability

CHARLESTON, S.C., June 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB), the world’s leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact, announced today that it has been named one of the World’s Greenest Companies 2026 by Newsweek and Plant A Insights Group.

The ranking recognizes the top 850 publicly listed companies across 28 countries for their environmental sustainability performance. GIST Impact and Plant-A Insights Group developed the ranking through a comprehensive analysis of self-disclosed data, evaluating over 8,000 organizations to determine the final selection.

“Blackbaud exists to power social impact, and that responsibility doesn’t stop at the products we build,” said Margaret “Maggie” Driscoll, chief people and culture officer, Blackbaud. “As we deliver cutting edge technology that helps nonprofits and social impact organizations further their missions, we’re taking a responsible, people-first approach to building AI that’s intentional about where and how this technology is used as part of our wider commitment to sustainability and stewardship. Being named one of the World’s Greenest Companies two years running is proof that our values aren’t just words. They show up in our culture, our decisions, and our commitment to the customers we serve. This recognition belongs to every person at Blackbaud who has made sustainability a priority.”

Companies were evaluated and scored on more than 25 parameters across four categories: Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Water Usage, Waste Generation, and Sustainability Data Disclosure and Commitments.

“Our planet’s future demands collective, immediate action from every sector,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Newsweek’s editor-in-chief. “By spotlighting the World’s Greenest Companies, we celebrate the corporate leaders proving that environmental responsibility is not just a moral obligation, but a cornerstone of sustainable, forward-thinking business in today’s changing global economy.”

Blackbaud’s commitment to environmental sustainability centers on responsible operations and measurable progress toward decarbonization. In 2025, Blackbaud achieved carbon neutrality across its business operations for the fifth consecutive year and continued to reduce the environmental footprint of its operations through remote‑flexible work, energy efficient facilities, and ongoing investments in energy and water conservation.

Learn more about how Blackbaud is leading the way to a more responsible future in the company’s 2025 Impact Report, and learn more about Blackbaud’s approach to Responsible AI here.

About Blackbaud
Blackbaud (NASDAQ: BLKB) is the world’s leading provider of AI-powered solutions for social impact. Serving nonprofits, educational institutions, companies committed to corporate social responsibility, and individual change makers, Blackbaud propels impact at scale with the sector’s most intelligent solutions for fundraising and engagement, education solutions, financial management and CSR and grantmaking. With the deepest expertise powered by the world’s largest philanthropic data set, the most connected workflows, and the most powerful impact network, Blackbaud’s solutions are building a future where resources are unleashed at the speed of need. Blackbaud has been recognized by Fast Company, Newsweek, Quartz, Forbes and more for AI innovation, responsible leadership and workplace excellence. Blackbaud has operations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, India and the United Kingdom, supporting users in 100+ countries. Learn more at www.blackbaud.com or follow us on X/Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

by Natalie DeMore

“Stand. Serve. Salute.”

Sometimes, all it takes is one leap of faith.

For Leah Marly Scarmeas, that leap came in the form of a last-minute decision to enter the Miss South Carolina Teen USA pageant. Bright, gracious, and remarkably humble, Leah entered with few expectations—simply grateful for the opportunity. By the end of that Saturday evening, however, her life had changed forever. She was crowned Miss South Carolina Teen USA 2025, earning not only a coveted title, but also a powerful platform to inspire others and champion the causes closest to her heart.

For Leah, “Stand. Serve. Salute.” is far more than a motto—it is a way of life.

Over the past year, those three words have come to define a reign marked by resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to service. Whether encouraging young girls to pursue their dreams or representing the unique experiences of military children across South Carolina, Leah has worn her crown with humility, purpose, and grace, proving that true leadership is measured not by a title, but by the lives you touch.

At just 18 years old, a graduate of Cane Bay High school in Summerville South Carolina, Leah is far from ordinary. As she prepares to pass her crown to the next titleholder, she reflects on a transformative year that blended personal growth with a mission close to her heart: supporting military children and families.

Raised in a family dedicated to service- her father serving in the United States Air Force- Leah understands firsthand the sacrifices military life demands. Leah was born originally in Wilmington North Carolina, and through that she herself had attended nine schools growing up, eventually graduating here in Summerville, she understands firsthand the frequent relocations, long separations, and the emotional challenges of having a parent deployed; these are the realities she has personally lived. Rather than shy away from these experiences, Leah turned them into purpose.

Her personal nonprofit platform, “Rooted in Service” was created and designed by Leah to give military children a voice, as a way to connect with others going through the same things she went through growing up. As well, she visits many schools to talk to children about pageantry as well as helping them learn to love themselves, yet to stay humble. Leah connected directly with students navigating similar struggles- encouraging them to share their stories and emotions.

“Sometimes it’s easier for a child to open up to someone closer to their age,” she explains. “I wanted them to know they’re not alone-that their feelings matter.”

To further her impact, Leah authored Brave Like Chewie: An Interactive Coloring Book for Strong, Brave Military Kids. Part coloring book, part diary, and more- it allows kids to express their emotions, document their journeys, and map out the many places they have called home. The book is now available on Amazon, with proceeds supporting military families. Completely nonprofit, these proceeds are donated to military bases and children’s programs. One example being obtaining the assets for the ability to have children attend summer programs and camps throughout the states.

As her reign comes to a close, Leah reflects with gratitude.

“I feel so thankful for everything I’ve been able to do this year—the people I’ve met, the lives I’ve touched, and the opportunity to compete on the Miss Teen USA stage,” she says. “None of it would have been possible without my parents and the sacrifices they’ve made for me.”

Though she is stepping away from competition for now, Leah’s passion for pageantry and service remains. She plans to continue mentoring young women, helping them build confidence, prepare for interviews, and present themselves authentically in pageantry.

“It’s such a rewarding feeling to coach other girls—to watch them grow and believe in themselves,” she says. “Pageantry will always be part of my life.”

Looking ahead, Leah will begin college with plans to study political science and broadcast journalism. Her interest in leadership is already beginning, one day hoping to write speeches for political figures. Through her demonstration and leadership, she obtained a scholarship to Mississippi State University, which has in turn fueled her love for public speaking and advocacy.

As she prepares to crown her successor, Leah leaves behind more than a title-she leaves a legacy of empathy, compassion, humility, determination and being a shining beacon to those around her.

In a world that often celebrates surface accomplishments, Leah’s story is a reminder that true impact comes often when we use our voices to uplift others.

And as she passes on her crown, her message remains clear:
Stand strong. Serve others. Salute those who sacrifice.

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The Salute from the Shore is a unique opportunity for individuals, friends, and families to salute our armed forces while celebrating Independence Day on South Carolina beaches. Our role is to organize and promote a military flyover on the 4th of July that will stretch the entire length of South Carolina’s coast. We will capture as much footage of the flyover as possible, from the air and from the ground, for inclusion in a video that will be posted for all to see.

At 1 PM, F-16s from Shaw Air Force Base will make their way down the coastline, beginning at Cherry Grove in North Myrtle Beach and ending in the Beaufort/Bluffton area in the Lowcountry. 

Following the active military aircraft will be an all-volunteer brigade of Warbirds, a civilian-owned and flown vintage plane community that will include T-34s, T-6s, and T-28s.

Stay up to date on the event through the official website.

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The Fifth Annual Taste Of Sweetgrass Culture will be held Friday, July 24, 2026 at Omar Shrine Auditorium in Mount Pleasant SC.

Click HERE for tickets.

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Sale of 2009 Abeking & Rasmussen 60-Meter Superyacht, Last Asking $45,000,000, Marks Company’s Largest-Ever Brokerage Transaction

WILMINGTON, NC / ACCESS Newswire / June 29, 2026 / NextBoat Inc. (NYSE American:NXB) (“NextBoat” or the “Company”), today announced that its Autograph Yacht Group division has completed the sale of a 2009 Abeking & Rasmussen 60-meter superyacht, last asking $45,000,000 – the largest brokerage transaction in the Company’s history. Burgess represented the seller; Gary Hardcastle of Autograph Yacht Group represented the buyer.

With fewer than 20 superyacht sales of this scale occurring worldwide each year, the transaction signals that Autograph Yacht Group has arrived at the very top of the global luxury market – a competitive tier reserved for the world’s most established brokerage houses.

“This milestone reflects the caliber of clients, brokers, and partnerships that continue to drive our business forward,” said Mike Burke, President of Autograph Yacht Group. “This transaction demonstrates that Autograph Yacht Group is building a brokerage platform capable of serving every segment of the market, from premium center consoles to the world’s most exclusive superyachts.”

The transaction also marks a meaningful expansion in the caliber of client NextBoat serves. Superyacht transactions of this scale generate significantly higher commission revenue than the mid-market deals that represent the bulk of the industry’s volume and bring the Company into direct relationships with ultra-high-net-worth buyers and sellers that few platforms can access. Management believes this deal validates a core element of its growth strategy: that by attracting world-class broker talent, NextBoat can drive substantial increases in revenue per transaction while expanding its addressable market upward.

“Transactions like this don’t happen without years of relationships and a platform with the credibility to compete at the highest level,” said Gary Hardcastle of Autograph Yacht Group. “What NextBoat provided was the infrastructure and backing to bring this deal across the finish line, and this transaction marks the beginning of the next chapter of our growth.”

This transaction represents a tangible proof point in NextBoat’s strategy to build a platform capable of serving every tier of the marine market – from entry-level recreational boats to the world’s most exclusive superyachts. As the Company continues to recruit top-producing brokers and deepen its global relationships, management expects transactions of this caliber to become an increasingly consistent part of its revenue mix.

About NextBoat Inc.

Founded in 2012, NextBoat Inc., previously known as Off The Hook YS Inc., is a vertically integrated, AI-powered marine marketplace transforming how boats are bought, sold, financed, and serviced across the United States. Through proprietary technology, transaction data, financing capabilities, and a growing national acquisition network, the Company operates across boat brokerage, wholesale inventory acquisition, auctions, financing, and marine services. NextBoat’s ecosystem includes Off The Hook Yachts, Autograph Yacht Group, Azure Funding, and proprietary lead-generation platforms. Headquartered in Wilmington, North Carolina, NextBoat is rapidly expanding its national footprint and market share within the $57 billion U.S. marine industry.

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By Alicia Lutz

The College of Charleston has earned its first STARS Gold rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.

The College of Charleston has earned its first STARS Gold rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). STARS, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System, measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education. 

“Earning our first STARS Gold rating is a significant milestone for the College of Charleston and a testament to the collective efforts of students, faculty, staff and campus partners who have worked to embed sustainability into every aspect of campus life,” says Nicole Killen, director of sustainability. “This recognition reflects years of commitment, collaboration and innovation, while also inspiring us to continue advancing our sustainability goals and preparing students to lead in a rapidly changing world. Sustainability is no longer a standalone initiative at the College of Charleston – it is increasingly woven into how we teach, learn, operate and engage with our community.”

“Sustainability remains a core institutional priority, demonstrated through our progress toward carbon neutrality, zero waste, holistic integrated learning and a vibrant culture of sustainability,” Killen and Brad Weiland, vice president for Facilities Management, wrote in the STARS application letter. “The College of Charleston aspires to be a leader in sustainability education, research and practice. We are proud of the accomplishments highlighted in this report and remain committed to continuous improvement and alignment with the standards set by AASHE and our peers in higher education.”

The College’s STARS report provides a full list of the College’s sustainability efforts and accomplishments.

“The College of Charleston has demonstrated a substantial commitment to sustainability by achieving a STARS Gold Rating and is to be congratulated for their efforts,” says Meghan Fay Zahniser, AASHE executive director. “STARS was developed by the campus sustainability community to provide high standards for recognizing campus sustainability efforts.”

ABOUT AASHE AND THE STARS PROGRAM

With more than 1,200 participants in 52 countries, AASHE’s STARS program is the most widely recognized framework in the world for publicly reporting comprehensive information related to a college or university’s sustainability performance. Participants report achievements in five overall areas: academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration, and innovation and leadership.

Unlike other rating or ranking systems, this program is open to all institutions of higher education, and the criteria that determine a STARS rating are transparent and accessible to anyone. Because STARS is a program based on credits earned, it allows for both internal comparisons as well as comparisons with similar institutions.

AASHE is an association of colleges and universities that are working to create a sustainable future. AASHE’s mission is to empower higher education to lead the sustainability transformation. It provides resources, professional development and a network of support to enable institutions of higher education to model and advance sustainability in everything they do, from governance and operations to education and research. For more information about AASHE, visit www.aashe.org.

Source: The College Today

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What’s it really like to work in social media? A College of Charleston faculty member’s new research examines burnout, expectations and the reality of always-on digital work.

In this episode of the Speaking of … College of Charleston podcast, College of Charleston marketing professor Kelley Cours Anderson discusses her latest research – recently published on The Conversation as “The hidden burnout crisis facing social media marketers” – on burnout among social media managers and the pressures shaping digital marketing careers.

As Anderson and her co-authors write, “For the people who run brand accounts on social media, the workday never really ends.”

Anderson’s research was informed by themes identified in one of her students’ bachelor’s essays on social media wellness and draws on interviews with industry professionals. She explains how constant content demands, real-time engagement and the expectation to monitor trends make it difficult for social media managers to fully disconnect. Many spend significant portions of their day on social platforms, blurring the line between work and personal time.

The conversation also explores the realities behind what is often seen as an entry-level role. Social media managers are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including content creation, brand voice, analytics, customer service and crisis communication, often with limited support.

More than 40% of social media marketers plan to leave their jobs within two years, underscoring the growing pressure in these always-on roles.

Anderson shares what students and aspiring professionals should understand before entering the field, including the importance of setting boundaries, managing expectations and developing both creative and analytical skills.

Beyond the workplace, the episode highlights the often-invisible labor behind social media and encourages listeners to better understand the human impact of managing the digital spaces people use every day.

Click HERE to watch.

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