Update: SOLD: 5 East Battery is on the market in downtown Charleston for $22.25M (Yes the giant Pink House)

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Update: The property sold this week for $18,250,000

Pink on the Coast: Now you can own this newly renovated 8 bedroom, 10 baths, 9,407 Square Feet dream house at 5 E Battery in historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Even Barbie is a little envious.

All yours for $22,250,000.

Click HERE for complete listing.

About the Home

Located on High Battery, with sweeping and uninterrupted views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter, sits one of the grandest homes in the city, the John Ravenel House. This historic residence, circa 1848, is one of Charleston’s most recognized homes and was recently reimagined during a multi-year renovation. Rebuilt after the 1886 earthquake, the stuccoed brick home showcases stunning Italianate entablature and lintels, creating an instantly recognizable facade. Inside, the spacious, three-story home retains beautifully preserved details including period fixtures, original mantles, hardwood floors, restored moldings and door surrounds, and ceiling medallions that are historically inspired re-creations.Large formal rooms and generous bedroom suites create an inviting layout for everyday living and unparalleled entertaining.

The private walled grounds are equally spectacular, featuring formal gardens designed by Perry Guillot who revamped the Rose Garden at the White House, a private pool and spa, and lush landscaping that creates an oasis of beauty and privacy. A detached three-bedroom carriage house complements the mother-in-law/staff/guest wing in the main home, affording ample room for family and friends. The meticulous multi-year renovation was led by renowned industry professionals, including Richard “Moby” Marks (builder), Glenn Keyes (architect), Richard Keith Langham (decorator), and Perry Guillot (landscape architect).

This conglomeration of talent resulted in the extraordinary in-town compound. The meticulousness is matched only by the artistry that went into the re-creation. The foyer features an intricate custom patterned floor designed by local artist and decorative painter Karl Beckwith Smith, who also hand painted wallpaper in the second floor powder room and crafted exquisite gilded valence holders in the parlor. The first floor includes an office, a sleek cinema room, and a kitchen with high-end appliances and a soapstone center island. But perhaps the most unique room on this floor is the grand sunroom. The home’s original porch was enclosed with glass created by an artisan from Northern Italy to capture the same effect as Villa d’Este on Lake Como. Natural light bathes this room throughout the day which contains not only charming seating areas but also plentiful dining spaces.

Of additional note on this floor is a vast pantry and laundry space. On the second floor, you will find a library with custom bookcases by Richard Marks Studio, a living room spanning the width of the house with glistening views of the Charleston harbor, and a formal dining room outfitted with exquisite custom wallpaper. An upstairs serving kitchen with warming trays, built-in China cabinets and a bar make for seamless entertaining. Expansive piazzas seamlessly offer outdoor living and dining spaces and stunning views of the water, with easy access from multiple rooms on this floor. Tucked in the rear of the home is the mother-in-law wing, a separate space which includes a bedroom with an en suite bath, kitchenette, and an additional room (currently configured as an exercise room). This space could also be utilized as two bedrooms with a shared full bath.

The uppermost floor of the home features the primary suite, which opens to a private piazza overlooking the harbor, and includes multiple closets and an updated en suite bath with custom dual marble vanities, a fireplace, shower, and a cast iron tub. Two additional bedroom suites and a family room with built-in bookshelves complete the floor. A striking feature of a home of this grandeur is the fact that the family spaces are as warm and inviting as the entertaining spaces are grand, a true testament to the dream team who reimagined it. The home also offers an elevator, a state of the art sound system, four full bars, ample wine storage, a two car garage, stand-up air conditioned attic space, as well as a generator. In addition to the home’s double covered piazzas, there is also a breathtaking rooftop deck, which offers a panoramic view of the water and picturesque sunrises and sunsets over Charleston Harbor.

The property’s formal gardens were reconstructed during the renovation and are complete with a pristine pool area, enclosed by privacy hedges. In this rear area of the property you will find not only a separate pool house but also a detached guest house with a living room, kitchenette, and three lovely bedroom suites. Situated within walking distance to Charleston’s finest parks, shops, restaurants, and galleries, this iconic home presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Charleston’s storied past.

GalaxyCon Raleigh Generates $9.75 Million in Economic Impact to Raleigh, North Carolina

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Successful 2024 Comes on the Heels of Raleigh Commitments for the Convention Through 2031, City/Convention Prepare for Animate! Return in January 2025

RALEIGH, N.C. and FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — GalaxyCon, the largest independently owned consumer fan engagement company, is proud to announce a staggering $9.75 million direct economic impact generated by its July convention in Raleigh. This record-setting event brought together thousands of fans, exhibitors, and celebrities from across the country, creating a significant boost to Raleigh’s economy and underscoring GalaxyCon’s role as a major force in the convention and entertainment industry.

“We’re thrilled to report the incredible economic impact GalaxyCon has had on Raleigh this year,” said Mike Broder, founder and president of GalaxyCon. “Our fans are the heart and soul of our conventions, and seeing the positive impact we have on the local community is immensely rewarding. The city of Raleigh has proven to be a great destination for fans from all over the country to travel to each year to celebrate fandom with us.”

GalaxyCon Raleigh Generates $9.75 Million in Economic Impact

Denny Edwards, President and CEO of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (GRCVB), echoed Broder’s enthusiasm, noting, “GalaxyCon continues to be a major driver for tourism and economic growth in our city. The $9.75 million direct economic impact is a testament to the value of events like this, bringing visitors from near and far and contributing significantly to our local businesses.”

GalaxyCon will return to the Raleigh Convention Center January 3-5 2025 with their second annual Animate! Convention focused on the biggest names in anime, animation, comics, and voice talent. That convention alone has an anticipated economic impact of $4 million.

GalaxyCon has been holding events annually in Raleigh since 2017 and has grown into one of the premier pop culture events in the Southeast, offering attendees the chance to meet their favorite celebrities, shop from hundreds of vendors, and participate in one-of-a-kind experiences. This year’s success further solidifies its position as a cornerstone event for the city and beyond.

For more information about GalaxyCon and its upcoming events, please visit www.galaxycon.com.

ABOUT GALAXYCON LLC:
GalaxyCon LLC, is the largest independently owned consumer and fan engagement company. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and founded by Mike Broder in 2006, GalaxyCon is made for fans, by fans. The company organizes pop culture, anime, and horror-themed events across the United States. Celebrities and fans are united at the festival of fandom in often overlooked locations. Events in Oklahoma City, Raleigh, Columbus, Richmond, and San José attract between 20,000 and 50,000 fans for each show. Additionally, GalaxyCon presents Animate! and Nightmare Weekend throughout the year, reaching more consumers and fans.

GalaxyCon is more than a comic con, it is a celebration of fandom.

SOURCE GalaxyCon LLC

After 12 Years, Rutledge Cab Company is closing its doors in downtown Charleston, SC

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In a tearful post on Instagram today, the team at Rutledge Cab Company announced that today will be their last day of service in downtown Charleston, South Carolina.

Here’s one last toast to y’all. You will be greatly missed for your casual warmth and inviting neighborhood hang out.

Related: Bar Rollins is closing in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, but they will be back

Charleston, South Carolina ranked as the city with the 6th most Haunted Hotels in the U.S.

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For some thrill-seekers, there’s something frighteningly fun about the thought of spending the night in one of the world’s most haunted hotels. But just where are these ghostly getaways? 

Using data from Vio.com and TripAdvisor, Vio.com uncovered where ghostly encounters are more likely and which hotels are buzzing with eerie activity. 

  • Charleston, South Carolina, has the 6th most haunted hotels in the U.S.
    • Myrtle Beach (18th) and Columbia (34th) also have among the most haunted hotels 
  • For every 1,000 guests staying in Charleston, 2.23 mentioned haunted activity, and 2.46 mentioned paranormal activity 
  • For every 1,000 guests staying in Myrtle Beach, 1.55 mentioned haunted activity, and 0.26 mentioned paranormal activity 
  • For every 1,000 guests staying in Columbia, 1.39 mentioned haunted activity, and 0.3 mentioned paranormal activity 
  • 9.6% of hotels in Charleston are considered haunted or paranormal, followed by Myrtle Beach (6.8%) and Columbia (4.2) 

Click HERE for Full Results.

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Mills House Hotel

Brooklyn-Italian Restaurant, Pelato Scheduled to Open in Charleston, SC Spring 2025

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BROOKLYN-ITALIAN TAPAS COMING SOON TO CHARLESTON  

Pelato, the acclaimed Brooklyn-Italian restaurant from restaurateur Anthony Scotto Jr., is set to open in Charleston in Spring 2025. A family venture, the Scottos are longtime restaurateurs who opened restaurants, Pelato and Luogo, in Nashville after relocating from New York to pursue new Southern roots. Now, after successfully serving up their favorite Italian fare in the Music City, the Scottos are proud to expand the Pelato brand further South and offer an authentic experience for locals and visitors with the opening of Pelato in Charleston. Led by Theresa and Anthony Scotto Jr., along with their son Anthony Scotto III, Pelato will occupy the former Butcher & Bee space on Morrison Drive.  

The restaurant’s name, Pelato, derives from the Italian term for a “peeled tomato,” and is also slang for a bald head – a playful nod to Anthony Scotto Jr. Paying homage to the Scotto family’s Brooklyn upbringing, guests can expect an approachable, small plate-style dinner service featuring an array of house-made, Brooklyn-Italian dishes and recipes that have been passed down for generations. The menu will mirror that of the Nashville location, including dishes that have been in the Scotto family for decades such as their famed Potato Croquettes, Brooklyn-style Calamari and Chicken Parmigiana, along with fresh house-made pasta like Radiatori Vodka, Bucatini Cacio E Pepe and “Little Ear” Orecchiette & Italian Sausage. Pelato Charleston will also introduce exclusive regional specialties that ties Brooklyn to Charleston’s local produce and seafood. The dining experience will be complemented with classic desserts like three-layer house-made Rainbow Cookies, Peach Melba, and Dark Chocolate Budino along with an impressive drinks program featuring signature cocktails such as the Frozen Espresso Martini, Limoncello Margarita, Sangria and various refreshing spritzes. 

Sundays are especially significant at Pelato, rivaling the bustling atmosphere of a Friday or Saturday night. The Scottos have a longstanding family tradition of preparing “Sunday Sauce,” a heaping portion of assorted meats cooked overnight and served with Fusilli pasta tossed in the meaty tomato sauce. Served exclusively on Sundays, Pelato prepares a limited quantity of Sunday Sauces for dinner service only. Designed to serve two or more people, it is the perfect draw for family gatherings or get-togethers with friends.  

The Scotto family is personally curating every detail of the space, with daughter Gabriella, teaming up with local David Thompson Architect for the overall design and décor. Boasting an inviting elevated design, Pelato will accommodate over 180 patrons between the main dining room, bar seating, private dining room, and an outdoor patio with an expansive four-season pergola for alfresco dining. A standout design element will be a mural wall showcasing the Scotto family’s Brooklyn roots through a series of original photographs (no stock images of Frank Sinatra here!).   

“We’ve been making our way south for years now and are proud to call it our home,” said Theresa Scotto. “The people here feel like family, and we’re excited to bring a real taste of Brooklyn to one of our favorite cities.”  

With a background managing some of New York’s most renowned Italian restaurants, the Scotto family brings extensive hospitality experience to Charleston. Following their successful ventures in Nashville, they are excited to expand in the Southeast with Pelato’s second location coming to the Holy City. Pelato will operate within the Scotto family’s new restaurant group, Avenue T Hospitality. 

The restaurant will offer dinner service seven days a week, with brunch service on the weekends following the initial opening.  

Location and Social

Pelato l Opening Spring 2025 – 1085 Morrison Drive, Charleston, South Carolina 29403 

Website l Instagram  

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Chris Rock Visited the International African American Museum in Charleston, SC this October

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Chris Rock, renowned comedian and cultural icon, recently visited the International African American Museum (IAAM), underscoring its significance as a place for cultural reflection and learning. His visit was evidence of IAAM’s role in preserving, celebrating and teaching African American history, making it a must-visit destination for individuals looking to connect with their heritage and engage with the powerful stories shared within its walls. 

Plan your next visit to IAAM HERE.

Source link: IAAM

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The Mermaids of Hurricane Helene – A Story of Loss and Love

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Beloved Asheville is an organization that has worked tirelessly to provide assistance and support. Most importantly they have brought people together to bring humanity in the eye of tragedy. On their Instagram, they shared a story that brought us to tears and one that truly visualizes the reality and unwavering love of a father to his daughter.

“The Mermaids of Hurricane Helene” – One of the most heartbreaking stories of Hurricane Helene was told by a six-year-old girl. While sharing supplies in her community, she told us how, as floodwaters rose, her mother tried to lift her onto their roof. With her last words, she looked her daughter in the eyes and said, “I love you,” before the river pulled her away.

“My daddy says Mommy is a mermaid now,” she said. “I know my mommy is a real mermaid.”

In this tragedy, there are heroes—mothers who became mermaids, sacrificing themselves to save their children. They now swim forever in the oceans of our souls. These waters haunt us, but listening to and sharing these stories helps us heal and find strength together.

We are so grateful to Beloved Asheville for continuing to tell the stories and work toward recovery.

If you would like to help, you can Venmo or PayPal Beloved Asheville and know that all your proceeds are going directly to families and towns in need.

Bar Rollins is closing in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, but they will be back

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By Mark A. Leon

On October 27, 2024, Bar Rollins, located at 194 Jackson St, Charleston, SC 29403, will be closing its doors, but fans of this local community wine bar will be happy to know they are seeking a new location.

In this message on Instagram on October 9th, they shared:

Hello friends xoxo Chris Rollins here.

Not something I’m wanting to write or ever thought I’d have to… Bar Rollins at 194 Jackson St has come to an end. Our last night at 194 Jackson St will be Sunday Oct 27th. We look forward to seeing you there.

We are open everyday until then. Come tell stories, drink wines, and make memories. xoxo

It’s a whole mix of things as to why we are ending our time here. We aren’t stoked about closing but we are excited for the future. The reasons are mostly out of our hands and we see this as an opportunity to make something even better. We have grown out of our space and need something bigger. There’s lots to talk about… but for right now just know Bar Rollins loves you xoxo

None of this would be possible without the team at Bar Rollins… past and present. We’ve built what I felt like Charleston was missing. It’s a safe space for so many. We’ve hosted some incredible pop ups, chefs, and winemakers. We’ve poured the best wine and beers. We’ve seen strangers become friends. So many people made memories in this incredibly small room on Jackson street. We’re excited to continue this at the next space we create and know we’re still here to celebrate til the end of the month. 

We are looking for the next space. Let us know if you have/learn about a space for us. We can’t wait to see what goes into 194 Jackson. It’s a truly special room.

We live here. We love it here. We are going to re-open somewhere else so soon. 

That’s how it starts. Bar Rollins 2.0 coming soon.

You all have this weekend to stop by and show your love. To the entire team at Bar Rollins, Good Luck 🍀 🍷

Charleston, SC Based Ignite Digital Services Named to America’s Most Loved Workplaces Presented by Newsweek

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CHARLESTON, S.C. – October 25, 2024 – Ignite Digital Services, a digital transformation company serving the national security sector, joined the annual America’s Most Loved Workplaces list for the first time. Published annually by Newsweek Magazine and developed by Most Loved Workplace®, a division of Best Practice Institute (BPI), America’s Most Loved Workplaces recognizes companies committed to prioritizing employee sentiment and creating workplaces that employees love. Ignite Digital ranked 116 of all U.S. companies included.

“Building a culture that attracts and retains talent is a central part of our strategy, and I’m enormously proud of what we’ve accomplished here over the last three years,” shared Marc Murphy, chief executive officer of Ignite Digital. “To be recognized alongside other leading organizations as a place where people want to be is a true honor.”

Ignite Digital adopts a service-oriented approach organizationally, which underpins its client work and team cultivation. The company fosters a growth mindset for its practitioners through training and professional development programming, thus enabling its team to provide innovative digital and systems integration solutions. Investing in its team strengthens client relationships and creates an atmosphere that retains talented professionals across the company’s core capabilities.

The results of America’s Most Loved Workplaces list are compiled from over 2.6 million employee surveys, with workforces ranging from less than 50 to more than 10,000. The list recognizes companies that put respect, caring, and appreciation for their employees at the center of their business model and, in doing so, have earned the loyalty and respect of the people who work for them. How positive workers feel about their future at the company, career achievement, how much employer values align with employee values, respect at all levels, and the level of collaboration at the firm were the five critical areas measured to gauge employee sentiment. In addition, areas such as inclusion, diversity, equity and belonging, career development, and company leadership were identified and analyzed about the five critical areas measured.

For the full list of the 2024 America’s Top 200 Most Loved Workplaces, visit Newsweek’s website. 

About Ignite Digital Services

Ignite Digital Services deploys data and systems integration solutions to ignite digital transformations for the national security sector. With a focus on purposeful results and innovative technologies, the company offers unparalleled value that supports mission-critical initiatives. Learn more about Ignite Digital Services at ignite-digital.com. 

About Newsweek

Newsweek is the modern global digital news organization built around the iconic, over 90-year-old American magazine. Newsweek reaches 100 million people each month with its thought-provoking news, opinion, images, graphics, and video delivered across a dozen print and digital platforms. Headquartered in New York City, Newsweek also publishes international editions in EMEA and Asia.

About Best Practice Institute

Best Practice Institute is an award-winning leadership and organization development center, benchmark research company, think tank, and solutions provider. BPI is the only certifying body for Most Loved Workplace® and conducted the original research to create the model and criteria for becoming a Most Loved Workplace®. BPI’s research proves that Most Loved Workplaces® produce 3-4 times better customer service, employee performance, and retention than companies not loved by their employees.  

For more information on how to apply to become a certified Most Loved Workplace, go to: http://www.mostlovedworkplace.com

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SEWE debuts one-of-a-kind sculpture in Gallery by SEWE; partners with Garden & Gun – Debuted October 10, 2024

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WORLD-RENOWNED SCULPTURE “THE THREE GRACES” DEBUTS AT GALLERY BY SEWE

Iconic Sculpture by Joseph H. Sulkowski and Diana Reuter-Twining Debuted October 10 in downtown Charleston

October 24, 2024 (CHARLESTON, SC) – Gallery by SEWE is proud to announce the debut of The Three Graces, an extraordinary sculpture created by acclaimed sporting artist Joseph H. Sulkowski in collaboration with sculptor Diana Reuter-Twining. This highly anticipated piece is available for viewing and purchase at Gallery by SEWE, located in the Shops at Charleston Place at 205 Meeting Street in historic downtown Charleston, SC.

The Three Graces was designed to accompany Sulkowski’s celebrated mural-sized painting APOKALUPSIS: An Uncovering, the crowning achievement of his career. The sculpture, valued at $750,000, embodies the spirit of Sulkowski’s work and represents the three hounds from his famed painting. In this three-dimensional interpretation, The Three Graces symbolize love, beauty, and joy, capturing their transcendent journey through time and space.

The artistic collaboration between Sulkowski, Reuter-Twining, and 3D imaging expert Harry Abramson utilized state-of-the-art technology, combining stainless steel, nickel, copper, and acrylic. The team used sacred geometry and gesture to craft this transformative work of art, making The Three Graces a masterpiece that blends timeless themes with modern techniques.

The sculpture will remain on display at Gallery by SEWE through February 2025, offering the public an extended opportunity to view this one-of-a-kind sculpture.

John Powell, President and CEO of SEWE, said, “It is an honor to host The Three Graces in Gallery by SEWE now and through the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition in February. Having the sculpture on display for the public supports SEWE’s mission to make wildlife art more accessible and allows access to world-class original work for both the collector and the casual observer. We hope anyone visiting Charleston, especially during SEWE, will join us in celebrating the art and the artists from this remarkable project.”

In addition to The Three Graces, SEWE has announced its new partnership with Garden & Gun. As part of this collaboration, Fieldshop, by Garden & Gun is now shoppable within the Gallery by SEWE, offering visitors a curated selection of one-of-a-kind pieces and exclusive collaborations by Southern artisans, along with seasonal apparel, barware, jewelry and more, all inspired by the pages of the renowned magazine. This partnership aligns with SEWE’s focus on showcasing unique, high-end sporting goods to the Charleston community and beyond.

The exhibit coincides with the 43rd Annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE), scheduled for February 14-16, 2025. SEWE is the premier showcase for wildlife and sporting art, featuring more than 80 acclaimed artists from across the U.S., Canada, and South Africa. Among this year’s lineup of artists are Ray Brown, John Banvich and Thomas Brooks who will have additional works on display during the event.

For more information about The Three Graces, Gallery by SEWE and SEWE 2025, including the full schedule of events, ticket options, and details about special events, as well as to discover SEWE’s mission in wildlife conservation, please visit sewe.com.

About the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition: For more than 40 years, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has proudly presented the finest in wildlife art, conservation and the outdoor lifestyle at its annual event in Charleston, South Carolina. SEWE will host its 43rd event in 2025 at multiple venues throughout downtown Charleston from February 14 – 16, with VIP events beginning on Thursday, February 13. 

For more information on the event, please email sewe@sewe.com, visit sewe.com or call 843.723.1748.

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