Author: Charleston Daily

Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.

Lowcountry - Summerville & Goose Creek, SC

Mainstream Pine Products to Build New Crude Tall Oil (CTO) Biorefinery in South Carolina (Goose Creek)

February 1, 2021 by 0 Comments
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10-acre facility in Charleston International Manufacturing Center will be capable of processing 110,000 tons of CTO from wood pulp used in paper manufacturing
(GOOSE CREEK, S.C.) – Mainstream Pine Products, LLC, today announc ed plans for an estimated $90 million crude tall oil (CTO) biorefinery at the Charleston International Manufacturing Center (CIMC) in Berkeley County. The biorefinery will be a highly advanced recycling facility with capacity to process 110,000 tons of CTO for use in a wide range of industrial applications.This facility will serve as the centerpiece of Mainstream’s strategy to become the highest quality, lowest cost producer of CTO derivatives in North America. The company anticipates breaking ground and starting construction later this year with operations commencing in 2023.

CTO is a renewable, non-food resource and a byproduct of pine trees used in paper manufacturing. It is a vital component of many chemicals including renewable diesel processing products, lubricants, adhesives, inks, paints, coatings, and tire and rubber additives.“We conducted deep-dive market studies and reviewed pine chemical industry cycles,” said Rob Helwick, president and CEO of Mainstream Pine Products. “The increasing demand for renewable, non-food source materials led us to a nationwide search for the best location in which to expand our operations.

“The Goose Creek site was unsurpassed among many we considered,” Helwick continued. “It affords us an ideal manufacturing location in an integrated industrial park with reliable infrastructure and intermodal access for efficient delivery of source materials and shipping of refined products.”With access to interstate highways, deep water shipping and rail facilities, Mainstream’s 10-acre facility will feature industry leading NEXPINUS™ technology provided by Neste Engineering Solutions Oy. The associated project management and engineering will be provided by PegasusTSI, Inc. and supported by Neste Engineering Solutions.

Mainstream has also established a long-term raw material supply chain and has engaged Citigroup Global Markets Inc. to serve as the underwriter for its tax-exempt project financing.

“It is important for us to develop our line of renewable products in a plant that meets the most rigorous environmental standards,” explained Helwick. “All things being equal, we believe the general population prefers renewable products, and the biorefinery acknowledges the world’s increasing demand for more sustainable goods.” Mainstream will be located in the 1,750-acre advanced manufacturing park at Charleston Industrial Manufacturing Center (CIMC) owned and operated by Cooper River Partners (CRP). The Center offers rail and deep-water access via barge. CRP provides utility services to tenants, such as steam, compressed air, process water and more. “We are excited to welcome Mainstream to the growing list of companies that call Charleston International Manufacturing Center home,” said Kent Fonvielle, president of Cooper River Partners. “Through providing reliable and cost-effective industrial services, CRP looks forward to supporting Mainstream’s successful growth.” 

About Mainstream Pine Products

Mainstream Pine Products, LLC, was founded in 2019 by a group of investors dedicated to using specialty chemicals from pine trees in a variety of downstream products for complex industries. Central to the company’s value proposition is the construction and operation of a new crude tall oil biorefinery along coastal South Carolina to open in 2023. Learn more about Mainstream at mainstreampineproducts.com.
Lowcountry

The Charleston Woodworking School is now accepting applications

February 1, 2021 by 0 Comments
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The Charleston Woodworking School is now accepting applications for the 2021-2022 calendar year.

The Charleston Woodworking School is South Carolina’s only professional woodworking school, licensed by the SC Commission on Higher Education and approved by the Veterans Administration.

They accept VA benefits!

Beginning our eighth year, graduates have become professional woodworkers and started successful businesses in fine furniture design and development.

Check out our website at: www.CharlestonWoodworkingSchool.com

Lowcountry

9 clever coronavirus parody Videos to help lighten the stress levels

January 31, 2021 by 0 Comments

The pandemic has made us all a little more creative. Some good and some bad, but we found 9 videos that should the fun and hopeful side of the pandemic. If we can’t make fun of a serious situation, when can we?

Enjoy.

The Social Distance – Parody of “Sounds of Silence”

(Covid-19 Wasn’t) Born In The U.S.A. (Coronavirus Parody Song) – Bruce Springsteen Cover

Hello (from the Inside) An Adele Parody by Chris Mann

Coronavirus Rhapsody (based on Bohemian Rhapsody) – Covid19

OUTKAST PARODY Hey-Ya “Ro-Na” (Coronavirus Edition)

Come On Vaccine – “Come On Eileen” Parody

Do Re Mi – Covid-19 version

Covid No. 19 (The Quarantine Song) – ‘Mambo No. 5’ Parody

Bonus: Mash and the Coronavirus

Lowcountry

Charleston- Area Nonprofits Receive Record Donations

January 30, 2021 by 0 Comments
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CHARLESTON, S.C. – Charitable giving grew by nearly 8% during the third quarter of 2020 over 2019 according to the Fundraising Effectiveness Project’s 2020 Third Quarter Report, which is administered by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). The amount raised on Giving Tuesday (December 1, 2020) was 25% higher than it was in 2019. The Winkler Group, a nonprofit consulting firm based in Charleston, South Carolina, predicts these trends will continue in 2021 based on their work with both local and national nonprofit clients.

Factors that are motivating major donors: the stimulus bill recently passed by Congress and the desire to move forward post-pandemic. With the stimulus bill, donors can elect to deduct up to 100% of their adjusted gross income (AGI) limit for cash contributions—this was increased from 60%. This applies to contributions made in 2020, but the Winkler Group expects to see similar incentives in 2021.

Over the past year, record stock market gains have inflated the value of many potential donors’ stock portfolios. These donors are motivated to avoid paying taxes by giving appreciated stock to charities instead.

“From the beginning, we predicted that donors would be generous in response to the crisis, but we were not prepared for the levels of generosity we have witnessed,” said Tim Winkler, founder and CEO of the Winkler Group. “We fully expect to see the trend of transformational gifts continue well into  2021.”

HALOS, a nonprofit organization based in Charleston that serves family members and friends raising children in an effort to keep them out of foster care, received nearly $130,000 from one donor in the last few months of 2020. “We received multiple smaller gifts then one large gift from a donor who doesn’t want recognition. This donor was simply compelled by our communication and wanted to help,” said Jennifer Richard, director of philanthropy, HALOS. “We were able to give specific examples of how donations were making an impact, and then we received a transformational six-figure gift. Our clients are disproportionately impacted by the pandemic—they are facing eviction and food insecurity– and by sharing stories of how their lives were changed through generosity, this donor stepped up in an extremely impactful way.”

Winkler Group research has found that large gifts have crossed sectors, from higher education to community service organizations, not only to front-line organizations fighting the impacts of COVID-19. Donors are giving because they are exhausted by the pandemic, a term called pandemic fatigue. Donors are looking toward the future and donating to ensure the causes they care deeply about thrive post-pandemic. 

For Dorchester Paws, the largest animal shelter in Dorchester County, a donor recently stepped forward with a $500,000 gift to help build a new shelter. “It was such a significant gift,” said Maddie Moore, director of the shelter. “Our staff veterinarian cried when she heard about it. This gift will have a profound impact on the sustainability of our shelter.”

These gifts were made to organizations and institutions that kept fundraising throughout the pandemic. Winkler Group studies revealed that these gifts underscore the importance of regular donor communication and more cultivation than solicitation.

Read more research from Winkler Group and download free fundraising resources, such as “Four Benchmarks that Will Predict Your Campaign’s Success in 2021.”

About Winkler Group

Founded in 2004, the Winkler Group is national nonprofit consulting firm headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, with offices in North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. The firm specializes in working with nonprofits to develop the strategies to raise more money with capital campaigns and strategic planning. With a hands-on, servant leadership model, Winkler Group works to strengthen the philanthropic health of organizations so they can spend time focusing on their mission. Visit winklergroup.com or call (843) 849-6256 for more information.

Both HALOS and Dorchester Paws are clients of Winkler Group.

Lowcountry

The Conversation – Original Poem

January 29, 2021 by 0 Comments
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By Mark A. Leon

Like the beating of my heart, the words have flowed

A lifetime of conversation we have shared

Often sad

Sometimes blessed with love

Days of melancholy; nights of bliss

In the late night talks

And the heartfelt letters

In the calling to the road and the homecoming of warm tears

 

Been down on my knees and touched the angels in the clouds

I’ve let it all out to you

Never held back the words as I continue to whisper to you

 

Seen the world and shared every moment with you

In the cabins, cities, mountains and oceans

Under a bright orange sky and cleaned by the powdering of the rain

 

I’ve shared it all with you

 

Together we stand

Fewer than better

A little older, little wiser

More profound this mystery

Awakened in meditation as the answers unravel

Each memory a new clue to a puzzle in flux

 

Let’s have another drink and keep this conversation going

In the songs, the poems, the confessions, we have witnessed it all

These words have lit the darkness

A profoundness of strength these vocal weapons have gifted

 

I love the conversation

The conversation with you

Lowcountry - Mount Pleasant, SC

Mount Pleasant Farmers Market Applications Available

January 28, 2021 by 0 Comments
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MOUNT PLEASANT, SC – The Town of Mount Pleasant is now accepting applications for the 2021 Farmers Market season, which will run every Tuesday from 3:30 to 7:00 p.m. from April through September at the market pavilion on Coleman Boulevard. 

Interested farmers and prepared food vendors are encouraged to submit applications before the Feb. 6 deadline.  Applications can be found online at experiencemountpleasant.com.  

All applicants are required to read the market rules and regulations before submitting their application.  The definition of farmer applicants and food vendors are explained in detail in these rules. Food trucks or trailers are not allowed at the market due to space limitations.    

“The success of our market relies heavily on the professionalism of our farmers and vendors who are dedicated to bringing a wholesome, healthy, affordable, and fun market experience for our patrons,” said Farmers Market Manager Tracy Richter. “I urge all local farmers and food vendors to apply for the market and help us make our 24thyear the best one yet!” 

The market manager and the Farmers Market Advisory Board review all applications and select all vendors. While exclusivity is not offered to vendors, organizers strive to deliver a diverse and balanced market. All vendors are required to practice environmentally acceptable packaging as specified in Town of Mount Pleasant ordinance 18024. Details and FAQs for this ordinance are listed on tompsc.com.

For more information about the 2021 Farmers Market season, or to download an application, visit experiencemountpleasant.com  or email Tracy Richter at farmersmarket@tompsc.com. 

Lowcountry

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Issues a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin

January 28, 2021 by 0 Comments
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WASHINGTON – The Acting Secretary of Homeland Security has issued a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin today after consultation with the intelligence community and law enforcement partners. There is currently a heightened threat environment across the United States that is likely to persist over the coming weeks. DHS does not have any information to indicate a specific, credible plot; however, violent riots have continued in recent days and we remain concerned that individuals frustrated with the exercise of governmental authority and the presidential transition, as well as other perceived grievances and ideological causes fueled by false narratives, could continue to mobilize a broad range of ideologically-motivated actors to incite or commit violence.

Summary

The Acting Secretary of Homeland Security has issued a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin due to a heightened threat environment across the United States, which DHS believes will persist in the weeks following the successful Presidential Inauguration.  Information suggests that some ideologically-motivated violent extremists with objections to the exercise of governmental authority and the presidential transition, as well as other perceived grievances fueled by false narratives, could continue to mobilize to incite or commit violence.

Duration

Issued:  January 27, 2021 11:00 am
Expires:  April 30, 2021 01:00 pm 

Details

  • Throughout 2020, Domestic Violent Extremists (DVEs) targeted individuals with opposing views engaged in First Amendment-protected, non-violent protest activity.  DVEs motivated by a range of issues, including anger over COVID-19 restrictions, the 2020 election results, and police use of force have plotted and on occasion carried out attacks against government facilities. 
  • Long-standing racial and ethnic tension—including opposition to immigration—has driven DVE attacks, including a 2019 shooting in El Paso, Texas that killed 23 people.
  • DHS is concerned these same drivers to violence will remain through early 2021 and some DVEs may be emboldened by the January 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. to target elected officials and government facilities.
  • DHS remains concerned that Homegrown Violent Extremists (HVEs) inspired by foreign terrorist groups, who committed three attacks targeting government officials in 2020, remain a threat.
  • Threats of violence against critical infrastructure, including the electric, telecommunications and healthcare sectors, increased in 2020 with violent extremists citing misinformation and conspiracy theories about COVID-19 for their actions.  
  • DHS, as well as other Federal agencies and law enforcement partners will continue to take precautions to protect people and infrastructure across the United States.
  • DHS remains committed to preventing violence and threats meant to intimidate or coerce specific populations on the basis of their religion, race, ethnicity, identity or political views.
  • DHS encourages state, local, tribal, and territorial homeland security partners to continue prioritizing physical security measures, particularly around government facilities, to protect people and critical infrastructure.

How You Can Help 

  • We ask the public to report suspicious activity and threats of violence, including online activity,  to local law enforcement, FBI Field Offices, or their local Fusion Center.
  • Your choice can make a difference. Choose non-violent ways to make your voice heard and support friends and family in doing the same.
  • Communities are strongest when they are not divided:  Strengthen your community by standing together against violence.

Be Prepared 

  • Avoiding large crowds, including protests, is safest due to ongoing pandemic conditions. However, if taking part in protests do so peacefully, safely, and wear masks.
  • Be responsible for your personal safety. Make note of your surroundings and security personnel. Carry emergency contact as well as medical and other needs information with you.
  • Connect, Plan, Train, and Report to prepare businesses & employees.

Stay Informed 

  • Local, state and federal agencies will provide specific information about emerging threats as additional information is identified. The public is encouraged to listen to local law enforcement and public safety officials.
  • Last year, DHS released a Homeland Threat Assessment to the public examining the threat environment through 2021.
  • The DHS Lexicon on terrorism includes terminology for DVEs and HVEs.

Types of Advisories 

Bulletin

Describes current developments or general trends regarding threats of terrorism.

Elevated Alert

Warns of a credible terrorism threat against the United States.

Imminent Alert

Warns of a credible, specific and impending terrorism threat against the United States.

Source Link

Lowcountry

Wesley Donehue Expands His Empire With New Brand Management Venture: Company will be headquartered in Charleston, S.C.

January 28, 2021 by 0 Comments
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With cancel culture and political polarization approaching peak intensity across the country, self-described South Carolina “truth bomber” Wesley Donehue is launching a new venture aimed at helping companies navigate the nation’s “current hostile political environment.”

This week, the Palmetto political consultant/ businessman announced the founding of Laurens Group – a Charleston, S.C.-based “strategic communications firm” which aims to offer its clients “integrated public relations and reputation management services.”

According to a news release announcing the firm, Laurens Group intends to “advice, protect and advocate for clients who are vulnerable to attacks from those aggressively pushing unfair, narrow-minded, anti-business agendas.”

The firm is named after Charleston native John Laurens, an advisor to general George Washington and one of the first prominent abolitionists of the American Revolution.

Donehue told us the goal of his new firm is to expand upon the sort of work his other company – Push Digital – did for Orlando, Florida-based SeaWorld in recent years.

In 2013, CNN released a documentary entitled “Blackfish” which chronicled the 2010 death of Dawn Brancheau, a SeaWorld trainer who was killed by a 12,500-pound orca (a.k.a. “killer whale”) named Tilikum. The documentary assailed SeaWorld for its practice of using captive orcas for entertainment -unleashing a cancel culture campaign against the company that damaged its reputation and drove down attendance at its parks.

Donehue and his team at Push developed a multi-pronged response that addressed the film’s inaccuracies while at the same time highlighting SeaWorld’s animal rescue and rehabilitation work.

Now he wants to take the same approach into a much broader battle – helping companies who find themselves targeted by cancel culture goons to “uphold foundational American values and sustain our country’s great, inclusive legacy.”

“We’re getting blown up by corporations who saw our SeaWorld work and who are waking up to the realization that they aren’t in a marketing fight – they are in a political fight,” Donehue told us. “We are launching Laurens Group to focus on that need rather than having Push just do it on the side. We are hiring senior political strategists who know how to go to war.”

According to the release, Push Digital is “pivoting to focus on what they’re best known for,” which is “delivering award-winning creative and launching innovative media and advertising campaigns for their political, advocacy and brand clientsPush Digital and Laurens Group will be headquartered out of a 203-year-old historic home located just south of Calhoun Street in downtown Charleston. The home is currently undergoing renovations but Donehue and his companies are targeting late spring for its grand opening.