A Mother’s Day Letter to the Mothers of Charleston

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By Mark A. Leon

Dear Mothers of Charleston,

On this special Mother’s Day, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for all that you do. Motherhood is one of life’s most precious gifts, and the love, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication you pour into raising your children is truly inspiring.

To the mothers who wake up before the sun rises, preparing lunches and getting everyone ready for the day ahead, we see you. Your selflessness and tireless efforts to ensure your family’s well-being do not go unnoticed. You are the backbone of your households, and your strength is admirable.

To the working mothers who juggle careers and family responsibilities with grace, we applaud you. Balancing the demands of the workplace and the needs of your children is no easy feat, yet you manage to do it with poise and determination. Your resilience is a testament to the power of a mother’s love.

To the single mothers who wear multiple hats, acting as both nurturing caregivers and providers, we stand in awe of you. Your ability to shoulder the weight of parenthood alone is a true display of courage and resilience. You are the embodiment of strength and perseverance.

To the mothers who have faced challenges, whether it be illness, loss, or adversity, we offer our heartfelt support. Your unwavering love for your children, even in the face of hardship, is a shining example of the depth of a mother’s love. Your resilience is an inspiration to us all.

To the mothers who have opened their hearts and homes to children in need, through adoption or foster care, we honor you. Your compassion and willingness to provide a loving environment for those who need it most is a beautiful reflection of the selfless nature of motherhood.

And to all the mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, and mother figures in Charleston, we extend our warmest wishes and deepest appreciation. Your love, guidance, and nurturing presence have shaped the lives of countless individuals, creating a ripple effect that will be felt for generations to come.

On this Mother’s Day, we celebrate you, the pillars of our community. Your sacrifices, your strength, and your unconditional love have made Charleston a better place. We are forever grateful for the countless ways you enrich our lives and those of your children.

With love and admiration,
Charleston Daily

Meals on Wheels of Summerville Raises $28,000 in Inaugural Dink and Deliver Classic Pickleball Tournament

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SUMMERVILLE, SC – Meals on Wheels of Summerville is pleased to announce that the inaugural Dink and Deliver Classic pickleball tournament, held on April 13 and 14 at The Pickle Bar, raised $28,000 which will provide more than 8,000 nourishing meals for isolated individuals in the Summerville area. The event brought together pickleball enthusiasts and community supporters for a weekend of competition and fundraising.

The proceeds will directly support Meals on Wheels of Summerville’s core mission to address hunger and isolation among homebound individuals in the Summerville community. As an organization operating without government funding, the donations received play a crucial role in sustaining its services. With a dedicated force of over 250 volunteers, the organization delivers to 23 routes three times weekly, ensuring the provision of over 1,300 meals to those living without daily nutrition due to medical limitations.

Since its establishment in 1982, Meals on Wheels of Summerville has been committed to providing nourishing meals and companionship to individuals facing challenges such as limited mobility or isolation. In addition to meal delivery, the organization runs specialized programs, including AniMeals, which provides pet food for clients’ pets.

The success of the Dink and Deliver Classic would not have been possible without the support of sponsors and volunteers. Meals on Wheels extends appreciation to all sponsors, including Court Sponsors: Baldoni Aesthetic, CMS Roofing, Home Telecom SC, Lowcountry Orthopedic, Republic Finance LLC, Taylor Charpia Real Estate, The Richards Family, The Spa at Nexton, Yellowstone Landscape, and Your Health Organization. Dink Sponsors: Electric Supply Company, First Citizens Bank – Summerville, First National Bank – Summerville, Lowcountry Dentistry, Lowcountry Home Sales-Carolina Jordan, Modern Woodmen of America, Morningstar Storage, Ridge Lake Farm & Pottery, LLC, Senior Care Living Services, LLC, and State Farm – Tony Pope. Vendor Sponsors: AllCare Living Services, home Mobile Veterinary Service, Stretch LAB, Stretch Zone, Sunset Slush, and Summerville Shag Club. Swag bag sponsor: Ella Lily. Refreshment sponsors: East Bay Deli, Food Lion, and Piggly Wiggly.

Meals on Wheels of Summerville invites businesses and individuals to continue supporting its mission through sponsorship opportunities and volunteering efforts. To learn more about future opportunities, visit: mowsummerville.org.

ABOUT MEALS ON WHEELS OF SUMMERVILLE

Founded in 1982, Meals on Wheels of Summerville stands as a beacon of support for the Summerville community, addressing issues of hunger and isolation. The organization’s mission is to provide nourishing meals and compassionate companionship to individuals facing challenges such as limited mobility or isolation. Operating in the Summerville area and receiving no government funding, Meals on Wheels of Summerville is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Beyond meal delivery, the organization runs specialized programs, such as AniMeals, ensuring that both the nutritional needs of individuals and their beloved pets are met. For more information, visit mowsummerville.org or call 843.873.8224.

Charleston Real Estate: Record Set in the Crescent with the Sale of 15 Broughton Road for $9.25 Million

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CHARLESTON, SC (May 9, 2024) –The Cassina Group, Charleston’s leading boutique real estate firm, announces the record-breaking sale of 15 Broughton Road in The Crescent. The waterfront property sold for $9,250,000, making it the highest-priced home ever sold in the coveted neighborhood. The property was co-listed by Robertson Allen of The Cassina Group, with Caroline Perkins Mollica, also of The Cassina Group, securing the buyer in a private sale.

Nestled along the water, 15 Broughton Road is a captivating residence boasting unobstructed views, moss-draped live oaks, and easy access to the water. With a private deepwater dock, pool, and expansive living spaces across three levels, this 8,481 square foot home is the epitome of Lowcountry living. The home includes a stunning circular staircase, formal dining room, office, light-filled living room and an Italian countryside-inspired kitchen, oriented to take advantage of the marsh and water views.

“The sale of 15 Broughton Road underscores the desirability and allure of waterfront living in Charleston,” said Robertson Allen, founding partner and broker in charge of The Cassina Group. “I am proud to have quickly and successfully procured a contract for my seller on this truly remarkable property.”

The Cassina Group, which consistently ranks as the #1 boutique firm in Charleston, has a vast network of clients, which allowed them to secure the buyer in a private sale.  

“The Crescent is a special neighborhood,” said REALTOR Caroline Perkins Mollica of The Cassina Group, who represented the buyers. “The beautiful views, large living spaces, and serene outdoor areas at 15 Broughton Road were the perfect fit for my clients, and I am thrilled to have been involved in this transaction.”

With commitments to high-touch client service and leading-edge technology, The Cassina Group remains Charleston’s top boutique real estate firm with over $302 million in closed and pending sales so far in 2024.  For more information about The Cassina Group, please visit TheCassinaGroup.com.

About The Cassina Group: 

The Cassina Group is a boutique real estate brokerage with offices in Mount Pleasant, SC and Charleston, SC. The firm is managed by founding partners and brokers-in-charge, Jimmy Dye and Robertson Allen, and Owen Tyler, partner and managing broker. Recent awards include top honors from Charleston Magazine, Inc. 5000, T3 Sixty, and SC Biz News. For more information, visit TheCassinaGroup.com or call 843-628-0008.

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After 29 Years, South Carolina’s Carolina Cotton Works in Gaffney, SC is closing impacting 120 workers

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GAFFNEY, S.C. — A Cherokee County, South Carolina, business that has been around for 29 years is set to close its operations in July, 2024. 

Carolina Cotton Works in Gaffney will close permanently on July 2, according to the WARN notice.

The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act offers protection to workers, their families and communities by requiring employers to provide notice 60 days prior to covered closings and covered mass layoffs. This notice must be provided to either the affected workers or their representatives (e.g., a labor union); to the State Rapid Reemployment team; and to the appropriate unit of local government.

The WARN notice was posted on May 3 and will affect 120 workers. 

The company website says it competes with expertise in dyeing cotton, filament and spun polyester, and an assortment of specialty fibers for flame retardant applications.

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Local Charleston Author Angie Mizzell publishes ‘Girl in the Spotlight’ – Learn more about this “heartfelt and hopeful story”

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By age 25, Angie Mizzell was a morning news anchor at a top-rated television station. She had married her college sweetheart, and scenes from their wedding day ran on the evening news. She’d achieved everything her mom had wanted for her and what she thought she wanted for herself. But after signing with an agent who promised to take her career to the next level, Angie began to realize that a future in the spotlight would not dim a past filled with childhood trauma and loss. As a television journalist, she’d made a living by exploring and reporting other people’s stories; it was time to examine her own.

In her coming-of-age memoir, “Girl in the Spotlight,” Angie shares a heartfelt and hopeful story of arriving at a crossroads, getting lost in the darkness, learning to let go, and finding her way back home.

  • Click HERE to purchase hardcover
  • Click HERE to purchase paperback

Praise: 

For anyone who dreams big and has the talent it takes to go great places but must dig deep and break the cycles of the past in order to achieve true happiness.”

-Meredith Land, news anchor and reporter, NBC TV, Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

“‘Girl in the Spotlight’ is nothing less than a how-to on saving your life.”

-Nikki Hardin, founder and former publisher, Skirt! magazine

“‘Girl in the Spotlight’ is about one woman learning to let go of expectations and process childhood loss so she can finally begin building a life that is both authentic and fulfilling.”

-Kate Hopper, author of “Ready for Air” and “Use Your Words”

“Angie Mizzell’s vulnerable and direct writing style captures the growing tension between the desires of the heart and soul versus the demands of our best-laid plans.”

-Ann Imig, founder of the “Listen to Your Mother” nationwide storytelling series

“One of those books you read and immediately hand off to a friend because you know they need to read it too.”

-Kelly Love Johnson, author of “Skirt! Rules for the Workplace”

“‘Girl in the Spotlight’ leaves you looking in the mirror asking the most important question of all: What’s in your heart and what’s really most important in that life you live every day?”

-Bill Walsh, chief meteorologist, Live 5 News, CBS TV, Charleston, North Carolina

“An overdue permission slip to release the things that no longer serve you and rediscover who you are without the burden of an outdated dream.”

-Shauna VanBogart, transformation expert and performance coach

“A poignant story about discovering what home really is.”

-Angela May, New York Times bestselling co-author of “The Islanders” series

What makes Charleston, South Carolina a special place to live

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By Mark A. Leon

Charleston, South Carolina is a truly special place to live, offering a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and Southern charm. Here are some of the key factors that make this city so remarkable:

Rich History and Architecture

Charleston’s history dates back to 1670, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States. The city’s well-preserved historic district is a living museum, with cobblestone streets lined with antebellum homes, churches, and buildings that transport you back in time. Iconic sites like Rainbow Row, with its pastel-colored Georgian houses, and the Battery, a landmark defensive seawall and promenade, are visual treats. Charleston’s architectural heritage is unparalleled, showcasing styles from Colonial to Greek Revival to Victorian.

Coastal Charm and Natural Beauty

Situated on a peninsula between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, Charleston offers stunning coastal scenery. The city’s beaches, marshlands, and waterways provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation like boating, fishing, and beachcombing. The nearby barrier islands, such as Isle of Palms and Folly Beach, are havens for relaxation and water sports.  Charleston’s subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers, allows residents to enjoy the outdoors year-round.

 Vibrant Culture and Arts Scene

Charleston is a cultural hub, with a thriving arts scene, world-class restaurants, and a calendar filled with festivals and events. The city is home to the Spoleto Festival USA, one of America’s premier arts festivals, showcasing opera, theater, dance, and music.  The culinary scene is exceptional, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a fusion of Southern, Lowcountry, and international flavors. Art galleries, museums, and historic sites cater to a wide range of interests.

Southern Hospitality and Lifestyle

One of Charleston’s most endearing qualities is its Southern hospitality and laidback lifestyle. Charlestonians are known for their warmth, friendliness, and welcoming nature, often striking up conversations with strangers. The city’s pace is relaxed, encouraging residents to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life, like sipping sweet tea on a porch or strolling through historic neighborhoods.

Economic Opportunities

Despite its small-town charm, Charleston is a thriving economic hub. The city’s port, aerospace, automotive, and technology industries provide ample job opportunities. Charleston is also home to several colleges and universities, fostering innovation and research. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other major cities, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals.

While Charleston is not without its challenges, such as traffic congestion and the threat of hurricanes, the city’s unique blend of history, natural beauty, culture, and Southern hospitality make it a truly special place to live. Whether you’re drawn to its architectural marvels, coastal landscapes, vibrant arts scene, or laid-back lifestyle, Charleston offers a rich tapestry of experiences that captivate residents and visitors alike.

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Update: R.I.P.: UFO Visitor Center (Bowman, South Carolina)

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Update: We just learned that the UFO Visitor Center in Bowman, SC was destroyed in a fire – Click HERE for story. We will always have our memories of this odd but memorable state attraction.

Every state has odd or off-the-wall attractions and South Carolina is no exception. If you are a fan of the weird, odd, or slightly off the beaten path attractions, the UFO Visitor Center in Bowman, South Carolina is perfect for you and only just over an hour outside of Charleston.

Believe us, it is worth the trip. It may wow you, scare you, or even have you rolling your eyes. No matter what you feel, you won’t be disappointed.

Before you pack the car with kids and snacks there are a few things you need to know:

  • There are no signs leading you to this attraction. Put the address in your GPS, Waze, or Google Maps – 4004 Homestead Rd, Bowman, SC 29018
  • This is a small sleepy town that time has forgotten, but so rich in tradition, history, and community
  • Don’t walk around barefoot. You will know what I mean
  • If you decide to make a day out of it in Bowman, don’t bother. Aside from a Chinese restaurant that may or may not be open and a Dollar General, you will not find any dining options.
  • Enjoy the rustic sound of the rooster touting just a few blocks away
  • Note: This attraction has not been maintained well, so it may remind you of Sanford & Son with a giant UFO on top of the garage.

Let us take a visual look at this well known South Carolina oddity:

3 Excellent Biking Trails in the Charleston, SC area

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Looking for a great scenic bike trail in the Charleston, SC area? We got you covered with these 3 awesome options:

The West Ashley Greenway is a 10.5-mile paved trail that stretches from Folly Road to Johns Island, providing scenic marsh views and a peaceful ride away from traffic.[9][10] The Hampton Park loop is a popular option within the city, with a paved path circling the historic park that is closed to vehicles on certain afternoons.

For mountain biking, the Wannamaker North Trail in Wannamaker County Park offers an 8-mile trail with elevation changes and tight curves suitable for all skill levels.[10] The Sawmill Branch Trail in Summerville is another great option, with a 6-mile loop through wetlands and pine forests.

The Marrington Plantation Trail on Joint Base Charleston-Weapons Station is known for its abundance of natural beauty, ponds where patrons can enjoy a relaxing day fishing. Marrington Plantation encompasses more than 1,600 acres of pristine woodlands that now serves as one of the premier military recreational facilities in the world for people of all ages to enjoy outdoor recreational activities.

Through the Love of RMHC Charleston and MUSC Kids, Eleanor is a shining 5 year old with a future as bright as the sun – Learn about Eleanor’s remarkable story

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Meet Eleanor! She is a happy and healthy 5-year-old, but when she was 3 weeks old, she was transported to two different hospitals before arriving at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital (MUSC Kids) showing signs of Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT).

Her family came to the House without any of their belongings except a few changes of clothes. Because of the generosity of our community, RMHC Charleston could provide them with food, toiletries, and a place to rest their heads for 6 weeks while Eleanor recovered from heart and lung failure. 

“We can never repay our gratitude for RMHC Charleston as it far exceeded our expectations, but we are committed to giving back in a way we see possible.”Marissa, Eleanor’s Mother ❤️

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Charlotte’s Lovin’ Life Music Fest defined itself as music festival elite in its inaugural year

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By Mark A. Leon

There are artists that have the potential to define a generation and moments that provide the backdrop.  This past weekend, Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina became a vessel for a musical event that may have cemented itself on the permanent landscape of the American musical festival scene.  

The Lovin’ Life Music Fest, behind the vision of Bob Durkin and his phenomenal support team, lifted the spirits of a city, who days before had been struck by tragedy.   In the cloud of 4 officers slain earlier in the week, Charlotte needed a voice to rise from the ashes and remind us of the resilience of this city.  That voice came at the hands of 30+ artists given their time and energy to powering the inaugural Lovin’ Life Music Fest.

Through careful tapestry and an idea that took nearly 3 years to become a reality, the Lovin’ Life Music Fest brought an atmosphere of love, harmony, hope and celebration.

On three evenings in early May, the City of Charlotte exploded in dance and song led by the fierce musical power of Post Malone, legendary icon Stevie Nicks and the soulful folk alt rock sound of Noah Kahan.  

That musical acts were only the tip of the of magic that ensued beyond the entranceway off of 7th and College.

So many individual stories defined the collective  

When you uncovered the layers of the thousands of fans, national musical acts, food and beverage, vendors, DJs, Instagram moments and smartphone video capture, you found the moments that mattered; the memories lived.

During our three days, here are some personal experiences we will never forget:

  • Stevie Nicks completing an emotional set capped by Free Fallin’ and Landslide as the night sky delivered a downpouring of rain.
  • As an ode to Zepplin, Stevie Nicks opened her set with “Rock and Roll”.  Iconic!
  • Post Malone shared a personal story of his two-year-old child and his passion to want to live for that little life as he sang “Too Young”, a song about dying young he wrote 10 years earlier at age 18.
  • A soft kiss in the rain shared by two lovers.
  • Fans from 12 – 75 gathering together in a celebration of music and community.
  • New friendships discovered.
  • A drone laser light show capped with “We Love You” over the Charlotte night sky.
  • A celebration of individualism and inclusion in a way that has to be experienced first-hand.
  • A moment of silence on day one to the 4 fallen local officers just days before.  In those brief few seconds, you could hear a pin drop in the middle of a metro surrounded by 20K+.
  • With an infectious smile and voice of an angel, Maggie Rogers planted the seeds of an entire new fan base.

In the end, Lovin’ Life Music Fest stayed pure to its name.  It gave us an invitation into a world of iconic musical legends and legends still undefined.  It reminded us that love is truly blind, without prejudice or judgement.  It helped shared the foundation of co-existence where acceptance is the heart and soul of happiness and joy.  

Charlotte is a city wrought with life from its banking mecca to its urban artistic vision.  It breathes through its skyscrapers and sports, rejoices in faith and celebrates its athletics.  It is one of the crown jewels of the South.  Yet, for one weekend, the center of this city was transformed to a playground for music fans where lyrics echoes off the walls of the cityscape and love was the fuel that grabbed us all night long.