Nucor Steel Berkeley (Berkeley County) breaks ground on $425 million expansion project

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Nucor Steel Berkeley broke ground on the construction of a new galvanizing line on Thursday, May 2.

The $425 million investment will create more than 50 new full-time jobs, according to a news release. The new galvanizing line is expected to start up in mid-2025.

Adding a new galvanizing line at the South Carolina sheet steel mill supports Nucor’s strategy to expand the company’s capabilities and grow its participation in the automotive and consumer durables markets, the release stated. The mill in Berkeley County produces flat-rolled steel which has hundreds of everyday uses, including parts for cars, water heaters, lawnmowers, appliances and more.

Nucor Steel Berkeley also produces steel beams that are used as support structures in bridges and buildings.

“This capability broadens the mix of higher margin value-added products that Nucor can provide to our customers,” Rex Query, Nucor’s executive vice president of sheet products, said during a groundbreaking ceremony. “It also allows us to take advantage of the need our customers have for sustainable steel — sustainable steel being something that Nucor excels at producing.”

With its recycling-based steelmaking process, Nucor makes steel with much lower carbon emissions than traditional blast furnace steelmakers, the release stated.

At the event, Thompson Construction Group — a South Carolina-based company working on the project — signed a safety partnership with South Carolina OSHA that establishes safety goals and strategies to help protect the health and safety of workers constructing the new galvanizing line, the release stated.

The Nucor Steel Berkeley mill employs nearly 1,000 people and utilizes the services of up to 350 additional contractors working on-site on any given day, the release stated. Nucor Corp. has invested more than $1 billion in the Berkeley mill since it began production in 1996, generating approximately $2 billion in revenue annually.

Nucor is North America’s largest steel producer and recycler, recycling approximately 20 million tons of scrap metal annually to make new steel products, according to the release. The company got its start in the steel industry in the 1960s when it bought a steel joist facility in Florence, and later built its first steel mill in Darlington. Today, Nucor employs 2,500 people across South Carolina.

Source link: Charleston Regional Business Journal

5 Restaurants in Charleston, SC with great Shrimp and Grits that will hit the spot!

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  • Fleet Landing Restaurant (186 Concord St, Charleston, SC) is renowned for its Charleston “Charleston Shrimp and Grits,” featuring fresh coastal seafood and a fusion of classic and contemporary Southern flavors.  Their shrimp and grits dish is a specialty.
  • Magnolias (185 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC) ignited Charleston’s culinary renaissance in 1990 and remains a forerunner in upscale Lowcountry cuisine. Their “Shellfish Over Grits” is a classic dish (sautéed shrimp, sea scallops, creamy white grits, lobster butter sauce, fried spinach).
  • Poogan’s Porch (72 Queen Street, Charleston, SC) offers a unique take on Lowcountry cuisine and is widely known for their delicious shrimp and grits (Cooper River Farms andouille sausage, onions, peppers, Tasso ham gravy), among other Southern staples like biscuits and she-crab soup.
  • The Glass Onion (1219 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407) is one of Charleston’s original farm-to-table restaurants, showcasing Southern comfort food like shrimp and grits made with locally-sourced ingredients (Carolina Shrimp, Andouille Sausage, Creole Tomatoes, Marsh Hen Mills Grits).
  • While not a dedicated Southern restaurant, Slightly North of Broad (S.N.O.B)(192 E Bay St, Charleston, SC) is an acclaimed Lowcountry bistro that offers an excellent version of classic shrimp and grits (shrimp, house sausage, country ham, tomatoes, green onions, garlic, marsh hen mill grits).

Charleston, SC Ranked #2 in the Nation for Best Summer Part-Time Jobs

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According to the latest study by CoWorkingCafe, Charleston, South Carolina is the 2nd best U.S. city for summer part-time jobs due to its large number of part-time job openings, high health insurance coverage, and dynamic work environment.

For this particular study, CoworkingCafe compared 331 U.S. cities with at least 100,000 residents that had data for all metrics analyzed. The metrics used for this study were: youth part-time job availability (number of unqualified part-time job openings per 100,000 residents aged 16-24), youth idle rate (share of young population who did not participate in the labor force in the past 12 months), youth part-time work prevalence (difference between the number of young residents working full-time and those working less than full-time), share of part-time employees with health insurance coverage, and share of commuters riding public transportation (excluding taxicabs).

Here are a few key metrics for Charleston:

  • Charleston boasted the 2nd highest availability of youth-focused part-time jobs, with more than 5,700 openings per 100k residents aged 16-24;
  • The city ranked 7th among our top 15 when it came to health coverage, with 70% of part-time workers having health insurance as an employee benefit;
  • Charleston had 25% more part-time workers than full-time employees, coupled with a 35% idle population rate — the latter suggesting a relatively low competition for youth-focused jobs;
  • Nationally, the Northeast stood out with four high-scoring cities at the very top of the list, with Rochester, NY, snatching 1st place.

Click Link for full study results: https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/best-cities-for-summer-part-time-jobs/

Portrait of young cafe waitress wearing apron taking order from client using digital tablet, copy space

Charleston County Waterparks to open for weekends starting May 18, 2024

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(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, for weekends only starting May 18. Daily operations will begin in June and hours will vary this year.

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

– Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark:

  • Open weekends only starting May 18, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays
  • Open daily from June 1 – August 11, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. weekends and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays (Monday – Friday)
  • Open weekends only starting August 17 and closing on September 2, 2024

– Splash Island Waterpark:

  • Open weekends only starting May 18, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 – 6 p.m. on Sundays
  • Open daily from June 8 – August 4, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturdays; 1 – 6 p.m. Sundays; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays. Closes on August 4

– Splash Zone Waterpark:

  • Open weekends only starting May 18, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 – 6 p.m. on Sundays
  • Open daily from June 8 – August 4, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturdays; 1 – 6 p.m. Sundays; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays. Closes on August 4

– West County Aquatic Center:

  • Open weekends only starting May 18, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 – 6 p.m. on Sundays
  • Open daily from June 8 – Aug. 11, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturdays and weekdays, and 1 – 6 p.m. Sundays
  • Open weekends only starting Aug. 17 and closing on Sept. 2

*Holidays may have different hours; please visit CharlestonCountyParks.com (direct link) 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 three waterparks. Whirlin’ Waters features unique activities for all ages with attractions including a 60-foot-tall multi-person slide The Washout, plus the Big Splash Tree House, Rollin’ River lazy river, 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 with sprays and waterfalls, 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-teenage children. Attractions include a 200-foot-long body flume, activity pool, a 16-foot-long otter slide, The Cyclone swirling water ride, and sprays, geysers, raindrop waterfalls and more.

The waterparks also offer a full range of amenities including concessions, lockers, lounge chairs, showers and restrooms. Each waterpark is staffed with certified lifeguards. Birthday party packages are also 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 offers a 6,000-square-foot seasonal outdoor pool for beginner and seasoned swimmers. It also offers programming including swimming lessons, fitness programs and a competitive swim team.

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

Charleston County Parks is hiring seasonal lifeguard and waterpark staff now, offering competitive pay and great benefits. For details and to apply, visit ccprc.com/jobs.

Fodor’s Travel names its 15 Best Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina. See who made the list

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Fodor’s Travel, one of the most respected and prominent travel guides has released its list of the 15 Best Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina.

This years list includes a diversified mix of African, Asian, Italian and Pakistani influences. Without further ado, here are the Top 15:

  1. Chez Nous
  2. Basic Kitchen
  3. Lowland
  4. Vern’s
  5. Sorelle
  6. The Restaurant at Zero George
  7. Ma’am Saab
  8. Leon’s Oyster Shop
  9. Honeysuckle Rose
  10. Chubby Fish
  11. Xiao Bao Biscuit
  12. Fig
  13. Fannie & The Fox
  14. Bintü Atelier
  15. The Charleston Grill

Click HERE for full article.

Banner image – Ma’am Saab

Sorelle

Vern’s

Charleston Marine Manufacturing Corp. Navy Yard complex generates nearly $1B in economic impact in Charleston County

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By Jason Thomas

An inaugural report has revealed for the first time the massive economic and jobs impact of the Charleston Marine Manufacturing Corp. Navy Yard Industrial Campus.

CMMC unveiled its first comprehensive economic impact study, revealing a contribution of approximately $960.1 million annually to the Charleston County economy, according to a news release. Providing data on employment, growth trends, and heightened demand across industries served by CMMC tenants, this analysis illustrates a broad assessment of CMMC’s total economic influence on Charleston County, the tri-county region and the state of South Carolina.

Established in 1993 in the aftermath of the Naval Base closure, CMMC has played an important role in fostering a multifaceted business community by attracting, retaining and growing its tenant base within the marine, manufacturing, creative and logistics industries, the release stated.

“In the wake of the Naval Base closure, CMMC emerged as a beacon of economic resilience, fostering growth and opportunity within our community,” stated Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes in the release. “The unveiling of this comprehensive economic impact study underscores the pivotal role CMMC plays in fueling Charleston County’s economy. As we celebrate its nearly $1 billion annual contribution, we acknowledge CMMC’s enduring legacy in shaping our economic landscape and propelling our future prosperity. We are proud to have CMMC as an economic development partner.”

The study — conducted by Joseph C. Von Nessen, research economist at the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business — summarizes how the growth of the advanced manufacturing and logistics industry clusters have been among the state’s strongest over the last decade, placing CMMC and its tenants at the center of South Carolina’s economic growth trends, the release stated.

The study’s findings highlight the importance of CMMC and its tenants to the county’s economy and serve as a reminder of the campus’s strong potential for growth. Additional key findings of the study include:

  • For the broader Charleston tri-county region (including Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties) and South Carolina as a whole, CMMC’s economic impact expands to $1 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively;
  • The dynamic business activities at CMMC result in an employment multiplier effect of 2.4; meaning that for every 10 jobs created by CMMC tenants, another 14 jobs are created elsewhere in South Carolina; and
  • 3,694 jobs supported by CMMC and its tenants pay an average annual wage of $74,537, representing an 18% premium over the average annual wage across all jobs in Charleston County.

“This economic impact study not only highlights the significant role CMMC plays in driving the economic growth of Charleston County and South Carolina but also shines a light on the collective strength and potential of our amazing tenants,” CMMC CEO Elias Deeb said in the release. “As we look ahead, CMMC remains committed to fostering innovation, supporting job creation, and contributing to the prosperity of our community.”

Said North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess: “The CMMC Navy Yard Industrial Campus stands as a pillar of economic strength and innovation in North Charleston, contributing nearly a billion dollars annually to the County’s economy. This underscores CMMC’s role as a cornerstone of our community’s growth. As we celebrate these outstanding achievements, we are inspired by CMMC’s unwavering commitment to bolster North Charleston as a leading force in South Carolina’s vibrant economic landscape.”

Source Link: Charleston Regional Business Journal

May is Hurricane Preparedness Month in South Carolina – Here is what you need to know

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Governor Henry McMaster declared the month of May to be South Carolina Hurricane Preparedness Month, marking the second year of the declaration. Hurricane season begins June 1, making May a crucial time for preparations for South Carolina residents.

The state’s theme for the month is “Make the most of your time while you still have it.” The month allows you adequate time to evaluate your current preparedness situation and see what preparations you can make now to ensure you are ready at the start of Hurricane Season.

Hurricanes often have impacts throughout the state of South Carolina. While those living and working in Hurricane Evacuation Zones are at the greatest risk, heavy rain, strong winds and possible tornados can impact those well inland. Regardless of where you live, begin your hurricane preparations now and consider these tips to help keep you and your family safe.

Be Informed

  • Know your hurricane risk. Whether you live on the coast or far inland, be aware of the impacts that rain, wind, water and even tornadoes can have on your location when a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall.
  • Know your evacuation zone if you live on the coast. Hurricane evacuation zones in South Carolina have changed for 2024. Find your zone on SCEMD’s Hurricane Guide.
  • Have several ways to receive alerts:
    • Stay tuned to local TV and radio stations for emergency information and the latest weather reports.
    • Sign up for CU Alerts, which provide emergency notifications to Clemson locations throughout the state.
    • Get real-time alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) for up to five locations nationwide.
    • Sign up for alerts from your local emergency management office and be aware of Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS).
    • Follow trusted and reliable sources on social media, such as your local NWS station, local news outlets and SCEMD.

Make a Plan

  • Learn your nearest evacuation route, practice with your household and pets and identify where you will stay. Rely on the blue hurricane evacuation signs, not GPS.
  • Keep your cell phone charged when a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.
  • Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plans. Include the office, kids’ daycare and anywhere else you frequent in your hurricane plans.
  • Prepare your home for hurricane season:
    • Conduct a safety check to ensure your home can withstand the effects of a hurricane.
    • Get your roof inspected, de-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture and consider hurricane shutters.
    • Confirm that your insurance policies cover the types of damages hurricanes can cause.
    • Make a list and take photos of your belongings as records.

Build a Kit

  • Build a kit with enough supplies for your household for several days, including medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies.
  • Consider the needs of those in your household when building your kit and tailor your kit to what’s best for you and your family.
  • Be sure to include important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container.

Know Your Zone

In South Carolina, state and local officials issue hurricane evacuations based on zones in coastal counties. These zones have changed for 2024. If you live near the coast, be sure that you and your family Know Your Zone. Clemson facilities are located in the following zones for 2024:

Northern Region

Zone A

  • Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science
  • Georgetown Extension Agent Offices

Central Region

Zone B

  • CU Bioengineering Program at MUSC
  • Clemson Design Center Charleston (CDC.C)
  • Charleston Extension Agent Offices

Zone C

  • Clemson University Restoration Institute (CURI)
  • Coastal Research and Education Center

Southern Region

Zone A

  • Beaufort Extension Agent Offices

Zone C

  • Colleton Extension Agent Offices

Source Link: Clemson University

Local Charleston Author and Medical Director of Optimal Bio earns Amazon Best Seller accolades

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Only two months after its release, Optimal Bio Medical Director Dr. Greg Brannon‘s second book Restore” has officially earned several Amazon Best Seller accolades! In addition to treating thousands of patients across the South, including in the Charleston office, Dr. Brannon’s vast knowledge of hormone health is now available to readers everywhere in his newest book. 

“Restore” provides further insights into the correlation between hormonal imbalances and anxiety and depression. Mental Health Awareness Month in May is the perfect time to take full advantage of this highly regarded resource. So far, “Restore” has been awarded:

#1 New Release in Alternative Medicine Healing (Kindle)

#1 New Release in Endocrinology & Metabolism (Books)

#1 New Release in Biochemistry (Books)

#1 New Release in Anatomy (Books)

#1 in Alternative Therapies (Kindle)

Dr. Brannon writes that the third most popular reason patients find themselves in Optimal Bio’s eight offices is because of anxiety and depression. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), which is Optimal Bio’s sole treatment focus, is a welcomed alternative medicine and healing approach to combatting mental health issues that so commonly plague our society. Using all-natural hormones that are identical to those made by your body, BHRT helps ease the degenerative side effects of aging and other medical issues, including anxiety, depression, fatigue, brain fog, diabetes, headaches, osteoporosis and more. 

King Street (Charleston, South Carolina) named the #1 most charming main street in America

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Mixbook conducted a poll of 3,000 travelers to rank “the most charming main [streets] in the country.”

Coming in at #1 is King Street in our own Charleston, South Carolina! Congratulations to all the small business owners, artisans, musicians, city employees, hotels, shops, restaurants and ambassadors of Charleston that make this street so “charming” and “special”.

Top 10 Most Charming Main Streets in the United States

#1 King Street, Charleston, South Carolina 

#2 Main Street, Lake Placid, New York 

#3 Main Street, Beacon, New York 

#4 Main Street, Montpelier, Vermont 

#5 E Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

#6 Broughton Street, Savannah, Georgia

#7 King Street, Alexandria, Virginia

#8 Broadway Street/Biltmore Avenue, Asheville, North Carolina

#9 Washington Avenue, Ocean Springs, Mississippi

#10 Main Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Click HERE for full article.

Prestige Therapeutic Fitness in Mount Pleasant, SC Celebrates Ribbon Cutting with Innovative Approach to Fitness

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MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – Prestige Therapeutic Fitness (PTF), Mount Pleasant’s newest fitness center, is proud to announce its grand opening. Owner Zoher Alimohamed and family celebrated this momentous occasion last week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Town of Mount Pleasant Council Member Daniel Brownstein, Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce President Kathi Herrmann, and esteemed Chamber members.

Located at 629 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 102, in the Aldi shopping center, PTF is more than just a gym – it’s a revolution in fitness efficiency. Using state-of-the-art equipment and specifically designed circuits, they help you achieve a 40-minute workout in just 17 minutes. Their secret weapon is Adaptive Resistance Exercise (ARX) technology.

ARX machines are unlike any others. They automatically adjust resistance throughout your workout, ensuring you’re constantly challenged and maximizing your results. Large built-in monitors provide real-time feedback on your progress, keeping you motivated and informed.

PTF offers a variety of equipment to suit everyone’s needs. They have the AllCore 360 for core strengthening, Carol Bikes for efficient cardio, and Sunlighten Infrared saunas for relaxation and recovery. Zoher guides members every step of the way, helping build strength, improve flexibility, and achieve weight loss goals.

Visit their website at https://www.prestigetherapeuticfitness.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @prestige_chs to learn more. Call (854) 777-1565 to speak with a friendly staff member and get started on your free two week trial.

Watch The Town of Mount Pleasant’s video of the ribbon cutting here.