Author: Charleston Daily

STARLING CHEVROLET SURPASSES $80,000 RAISED FOR CAMP RISE ABOVE

Charleston, S.C. – Starling Chevrolet has proudly surpassed a significant fundraising milestone, raising over $80,000 for its philanthropic partner, Camp Rise Above, since their partnership began in 2022.

Starling Chevrolet General Manager Joe Sarro presented a check representing the cumulative total of the dealership’s contributions through its All Stars Initiative, community events and customer-driven fundraising efforts.

“Camp Rise Above has a mission that hits home for me. It’s about giving kids the chance to be kids, no matter the challenges they face,” said Sarro. “We’re proud to help water the flowers in our own backyard, and this partnership is one of the most rewarding ways we can give back to the Lowcountry.”

Founded in 2008 by Barbara Van Thullenar Denton, Camp Rise Above provides life-changing camp experiences for children with serious illnesses, disabilities, and life challenges. The organization serves hundreds of children each year through high-quality, medically supportive programs and has the long-term vision of building a permanent, fully accessible camp facility in the Charleston area.

“Joe and the Starling Chevrolet team have become part of the Camp Rise Above family,” said Erin Ulmer, Executive Director at Camp Rise Above. “Their generosity has fueled opportunities for our campers that simply wouldn’t have been possible otherwise — and the joy on the camper’s faces is proof of the impact they’re making.”

Starling Chevrolet’s dedication to the community extends well beyond Camp Rise Above, supporting local programs such as Toys for Tots, Mount Pleasant Recreation Department, Oceanside Academy and the Wando High School Band.

Starling Chevrolet is part of the Starling Automotive Group and is open Monday–Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. To learn more about the dealership, visit www.southcarolinachevy.com, follow on Facebook @StarlingChevyMP, and Instagram @StarlingChevroletMP. To learn more about Camp Rise above, visit www.campriseabove.org, follow on Facebook @CampRiseAbove, and Instagram @CampRiseAbove.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Since 1897, Florence Crittenton Programs of SC has been serving young pregnant women, moms and children by providing safety, stability and the foundational skills to build a bright future. After 125 years of service, Florence Crittenton has stepped into a new era and rebranded as Young Moms Together – a name that honors the young mothers at the heart of their mission and reflects a belief that life’s challenges are best faced together.

While their mission to support and empower young moms remains the same, the name Young Moms Together better reflects the evolution of their service model and amplifies the voices and experiences of the young women they serve. 

“After years of research, planning and careful consideration, we’re excited and prepared to take this next step as Young Moms Together,” shares Cheryl O’Donnell, executive director of Young Moms Together. “We’re building a stronger, more responsive and more community-rooted system that opens doors for young moms and allows us to collaborate with partners, supporters and like-minded forces.” 

For decades, Young Moms Together provided housing for young moms in their residential home on St. Margaret Street in addition to offering rental assistance and support services for young moms facing homelessness and housing instability. Building on that foundation and responding to challenges young moms currently face, Young Moms Together is shifting towards a more inclusive, community-based service model rooted in real-world settings and long-term stability. 

Through a collection of synergetic services grounded in evidence-based Parents as Teachers curriculum and delivered through a holistic ‘Success Coach’ model, Young Moms Together will now serve every young mom under one unified program. This holistic approach utilizes techniques such as:

• Dedicated Case Managers: One case manager will stay with each mom throughout her journey–coordinating all services, building trust and ensuring continuity of care– equipping her with tools, resources and education to thrive independently and with the goal of breaking the cycles of poverty and trauma. 
• Holistic, Family-Centered Care and Training: Support will not only focus on the moms’ immediate needs, but also those of their family and caregivers. Foster parents, kinship care providers and caregivers will also receive specialized training to better understand the needs of young moms, creating an environment that fosters stability and connection.
• Highly Accessible Services: Moms will no longer need to reside in the residential home to receive services. Instead, Young Moms Together will meet moms where they are, connecting them with local programs and housing support to ensure they stay integrated with their support systems. 

For more information, please visit the Young Moms Together website.

Photo credit: Young Moms Together

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Without much fanfare or media, Stars Restaurant and Satellite Bar (Rooftop) have closed their doors after almost 13 years at 495 King Street in downtown Charleston, South Carolina to unveil a brand new concept: Events at 495.

Events at 495 will be offering multiple spaces and full catering menus to suit anyone’s taste and party style from bridal showers to business meetings; bachelor parties to corporate celebrations.

There will be 3 indoor room areas and the rooftop available for your special event.

Click link to learn more: Official Website

Photo Credit: Events at 495

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Manufacturing facility will operate with nearly 70 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – ATI Inc. (ATI), a global aerospace and defense leader, today celebrated its growth in South Carolina with a new operation in Chesterfield County. At full production capacity, the facility will operate with a workforce of nearly 70 newly created jobs.

ATI’s new facility, located at 340 Industrial Park Lane in Pageland, produces titanium alloy sheet. Technically challenging to produce, this material is critical to airframe manufacturers, bringing strength and durability to aerostructure components and assemblies. The company recently announced long-term agreements with Airbus and Boeing for materials produced at this facility.

Headquartered in Texas, ATI produces materials and solutions for the aerospace and defense markets, as well as applications used in the electronics, medical and energy industries. The company’s existing presence in South Carolina includes a specialty materials production facility in Richburg.

Operations at the Pageland facility are already online. Individuals interested in joining the ATI team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $550,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Chesterfield County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

QUOTES

“With our Pageland facility fully online and in production, ATI now offers a full complement of titanium materials, producing quality titanium sheets wider and longer than anyone in the industry. We appreciate South Carolina’s support for our expansion and look forward to partnering with them for decades to come. This new offering further extends both ATI’s and South Carolina’s position as an aerospace leader, giving customers extraordinary manufacturing capability and flexibility.” -ATI President and CEO Kimberly A. Fields

“ATI’s latest investment in our state and our people is a testament to South Carolina’s capabilities in the manufacturing industry. We applaud the company on creating nearly 70 new job opportunities in one of our state’s rural communities and congratulate ATI and Chesterfield County on this announcement.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina continues to prove itself as a state that provides businesses with the support needed to grow and succeed, from launch to legacy. We are proud to see ATI establishing another manufacturing facility in our state and look forward to continuing our partnership with the company as it invests in Chesterfield County.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Chesterfield County celebrates ATI’s global specialty materials business located in Lynches River Industrial Park in Pageland. This facility underscores our county’s strengths in workforce readiness, infrastructure and business climate. ATI’s transformative investment here reflects confidence in our ability to support advanced manufacturing for the critical sectors of aerospace and defense.” -Chesterfield County Council Chairwoman Mary Anderson

FIVE FAST FACTS

• ATI Inc. (ATI) is growing its South Carolina footprint with a new operation in Chesterfield County.
• ATI is a global aerospace and defense company.
• The company’s manufacturing facility will employ nearly 70 people when at full production.
• The new operation, producing titanium alloy sheet, is located at 340 Industrial Park Lane in Pageland, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the ATI team should visit the company’s careers page.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Deadline Tonight at Midnight – Lock in the Lowest Price of the Year Before Headliners Are Revealed

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AUGUST 13, 2025) — Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF) The East Coast’s largest outdoor country music fest is officially kicking off its journey to 2026. Today marks the final day to sign up for Early Access to Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF) tickets, with the deadline set for midnight tonight.

Past ticket holders are automatically included, while new fans can secure their spot by registering before the deadline. Both groups will get the exclusive advantage when Early Access opens tomorrow, Thursday, August 14, at 10 a.m. This coveted window offers the lowest ticket prices of the year and first choice of ticket types — from General Admission to the exclusive Super VIP experience — before tiers start selling out. Tickets will go on sale to the public on Friday, August 15.

Set for June 4-7, 2026 in Myrtle Beach, S.C., CCMF will once again transform the iconic coastal destination into a four-day country music takeover, featuring more than 40 of today’s hottest artists and rising stars performing across multiple stages just steps from the ocean.

Since its debut in 2015, CCMF has grown into a nationally recognized destination fest, drawing fans from all over the world. Known for its unique beachfront setting, star-powered lineups, and immersive fan experience, the event has been recognized by USA Today, Billboard, Rolling Stone and Country Living as one of the premier country music events in the nation — and has sold out four years in a row.

Why Early Access:

● Best Price of the Year: Secure tickets before headliners are announced and save big.

● First Pick of Ticket Types: Beat the rush and claim your preferred experience.

● Tiered Pricing Advantage: Once tiers sell out, prices go up — even during Early Access.

● High Demand: With four consecutive sellouts, Early Access is the safest bet to guarantee your spot.

“Early Access is our way of saying thank you to the incredible fans who make CCMF possible,” said Bob Durkin, co-founder of Southern Entertainment. “It’s your chance to lock in the best deal and be part of an unforgettable weekend.”

Fans can also follow along as #CCMFHints continue rolling out on social media this week, offering cryptic clues about the four superstar headliners set to be revealed in the coming weeks.

To sign up for Early Access before tonight’s midnight deadline, explore ticket options, and join the tradition, visitCarolinaCountryMusicFest.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok. 

About CCMF: 

Carolina Country Music Fest™, (CCMF), the East Coast’s largest outdoor country music fest, is located in Myrtle Beach, SC, at the Boardwalk within the Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place. CCMF is host to the industry’s biggest stars with 40+ artists at the beach, June 4th-7th, 2026. CCMF hosts a unique blend of today’s country headliners, regional stars, up-and-comers and locals favorites on multiple stages. With the combination of country music and the scenic beach backdrop, this family-friendly, four-day fest is a summer vacation destination.

About Southern Entertainment: 

Southern Entertainment is a full-service event and production company with an unwavering commitment to excellence that has produced more than 500 events across the United States. For more information, visit www.southernentertainment.com

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

By Mark A. Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city where history doesn’t just live in museums—it lingers in the cobblestone streets, whispers through the live oaks, and resonates from its centuries-old architecture. Founded in 1670, Charleston has been a crossroads of commerce, culture, and politics, playing a vital role in shaping the American story. From its colonial prominence to its pivotal moments in the Revolution and Civil War, Charleston has not only witnessed history—it has made it. In fact, the Holy City boasts an extraordinary list of “firsts” that set it apart as one of the most historically significant cities in the United States.

1. First Public College, Museum, and Playhouse

Charleston was home to the first public college in America—the College of Charleston—chartered in 1770 and operational by 1785. It also claimed the nation’s first museum, the Charleston Museum, founded in 1773. Just a year later, in 1736, the Dock Street Theatre opened as the first building in the U.S. constructed exclusively for theatrical performances.

2. First Golf Club in America

Golf arrived on American shores in Charleston. In 1786, the South Carolina Golf Club was established, predating other clubs by decades and marking the sport’s introduction to the colonies.

3. First Passenger Rail Service

In 1830, Charleston became the starting point for America’s first regularly scheduled passenger rail service. The Charleston & Hamburg Railroad connected the city to inland South Carolina and helped revolutionize U.S. transportation.

4. First Shot of the American Civil War

On April 12, 1861, Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor became the flashpoint for the Civil War when Confederate forces fired the war’s opening shots—a moment that altered the course of American history.

5. First Fire Insurance Company

Charleston also pioneered organized risk management, establishing the first fire insurance company in America in 1735, protecting the city’s vital commercial hub from devastating losses.

6. First American Ballet Company

In 1791, Charleston formed what is considered America’s first professional ballet company, bringing European art forms to the colonial South.

7. First and Oldest Liquor Store

The oldest liquor store in America is The Tavern at Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina. It has been selling alcohol since 1686.

8. First Municipal College Integrated into a City Government

The College of Charleston became the first municipal college in the nation in 1837, intertwining higher education with civic governance.

Charleston’s long list of firsts reflects its role as a leader in innovation, art, commerce, and politics. More than a city of beautiful scenery, it is a living monument to the spirit of progress—always ready to try something new, and often, to do it first.

Related: MRI Wellness in North Charleston – The only full-service preventative MRI Center in the state of South Carolina

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

R2P Also Claims #1 Spot in U.S. Manufacturing, #1 in South Carolina and #1 in Charleston Metro Area

CHARLESTON, SC – R2P Innovations, the Charleston-based manufacturer of the world’s most advanced bulletproof doors has been ranked #5 on the 2025 Inc. 5000list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. In addition to its national top five ranking, R2P also earned the #1 spot for manufacturing in the U.S., as well as the #1 spots overall in South Carolina and the Charleston metro area.

R2P Innovations is the only company in the world producing office and classroom doors capable of stopping over 100 rounds of assault-rifle fire in a design aesthetic that matches classroom and office settings while being light enough for children to operate.  R2P doors are also fire-rated and ADA-compliant.

The annual Inc. 5000 list recognizes the most dynamic and successful privately held companies in the country. R2P’s three-year revenue growth reflects the growing demand for its life-saving technology and the strength of its mission-driven business model.

“This incredible recognition is a testament to our team and the vision we’ve built together,” said Tony Deering, CEO of R2P Innovations. “We aren’t just building bulletproof doors—we’re building trust, safety, and peace of mind for every employee, student and teacher. To be named the fastest-growing manufacturer in the country, and one of the top five companies overall, is both humbling and motivating.”

Behind the technology is a team with decades of experience protecting men and women in uniform.  The R2P team is united by a purpose to save lives and a workplace culture that prioritizes the company’s lifesaving mission.

“Working at R2P isn’t just a job—it’s something I’m proud of every day,” said Simon Holmes, a master machinist. “We know our work directly impacts kids’ lives, and the company goes out of its way to support us. It feels like a family with a real mission.”

This year’s Inc. 5000 honorees stood out by growing and innovating in the face of global uncertainty, inflation, and a tight labor market. Among the top 500 firms, the median three-year revenue growth rate is 1,507 percent. These companies have collectively added more than 52,000 jobs to the U.S. economy over the past three years.

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” said Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses didn’t just survive—they grew through adversity, and their stories reflect the power of the entrepreneurial spirit.”

R2P Innovations will be honored at the 2025 Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala, taking place October 22–24 in Phoenix. The top 500 companies will also be profiled in the Fall issue of Inc. magazine. Past honorees include companies such as Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, Timberland, Oracle, and Patagonia.

To view the full list and learn more, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000

METHODOLOGY

Companies on the 2025 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2021. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2024. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2021 is $100,000; the minimum for 2024 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. 

About R2P Innovations:
R2P Innovations is a leading developer and manufacturer of the world’s most advanced bulletproof doors, specifically designed to blend seamlessly into office and school settings. Learn more at r2pdoors.com.

About Inc.:
Inc. is the leading media brand for entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping the future. Through trusted journalism, Inc. informs and elevates the innovators, risk-takers, and visionaries driving America’s most dynamic companies. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, which also publishes Fast Company. Visit www.inc.com for more.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

BOSSCAT Ranks No. 1493 With Revenue Growth of 291 Percent From 2021 to 2024

CHARLESTON, S.C., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BOSSCAT Home Services and Technologies today announced that it has been named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 list for the fourth consecutive year, earning recognition as the 1493rd fastest-growing private company in America. This four-year achievement places BOSSCAT among less than 6% of all companies recognized. The list provides a data-driven snapshot of the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent, entrepreneurial businesses.

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement, recognizing our hard work, innovation and resilience, especially in a challenging time for proptech, real estate and venture-backed companies,” said Min Alexander, CEO and Founder of BOSSCAT. “Our mission has always been to create simplicity, transparency and joy for homeowners throughout their homeownership journey and this recurring achievement confirms we are on the right path.” 

Since its founding, BOSSCAT has transformed the way homeowners and real estate professionals order and manage home services online through personalized insights, recommendations and transparent pricing. BOSSCAT offers home repair, renovation and maintenance services in its operational markets and its proprietary Instant Estimate technology is available to homeowners, investors and real estate professionals across the United States and in Canada through BOSSCAT’s platform, HOMEBASE, now serving nearly 700,000 users.

“Our financing strategy was developed to create new opportunities to expand and improve our products and services, despite economic and real estate sector challenges,” said Mark Kearns, CFO of BOSSCAT.  “Our Series A capital raise in 2022 along with our subsequent financing rounds through 2025 have allowed BOSSCAT to continually invest in technology and product development to support our growth while driving toward profitability.”

This year’s Inc. 5000 honorees have demonstrated exceptional growth while navigating economic uncertainty, inflationary pressure, and a fluctuating labor market. Among the top 500 companies on the list, the median three-year revenue growth rate reached 1,552 percent, and those companies have collectively added more than 48,678 jobs to the U.S. economy over the past three years.

“Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a company’s tenacity and clarity of vision,” says Mike Hofman, editor-in-chief of Inc. “These businesses have thrived amid rising costs, shifting global dynamics, and constant change. They didn’t just weather the storm—they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy.”

For the full list, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Inc. 

Inc. is the leading media brand and playbook for the entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping our future. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate, and elevate the profile of its community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating the future of business. Inc. is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow leading business publication Fast Company. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

About BOSSCAT Home Services and Technologies

BOSSCAT Home Services and Technologies is the real estate platform reshaping homeownership through instant repair estimates and personalized repair, renovation and maintenance recommendations for homeowners.  Through strategic alliances with Pillar To Post, RE/MAX, the National Association of Realtors®, The Home Depot and partners throughout the real estate ecosystem, BOSSCAT has created exclusive offerings to deliver lifecycle services for homeowners, investors and real estate professionals. BOSSCAT’s Instant Estimate technology and HOMEBASE platform are available in all 50 states and Canada. BOSSCAT’s major investors include Sweetwater Private Equity, Morpheus Ventures, Second Century Ventures and The Home Depot. Learn more at www.BosscatHome.com 

Could a rail system fix Charleston’s traffic? Options, costs and what to expect

Charleston’s growth has put real pressure on roads, and planners have spent recent years looking at a range of transit solutions — from modern light rail and heritage-style streetcars to expanded ferries and the bus-rapid-transit project already underway. Below is a concise guide to the realistic options for a “little rail” (or light-rail/streetcar) system in the Lowcountry, how much each might cost in ballpark terms, and the likely advantages and tradeoffs for the region.

The main options

1. Light rail
   A light-rail line uses rail vehicles on fixed guideways with dedicated stations and can move big volumes of people at relatively high frequency. It’s typically considered for corridors with high ridership potential that justify the higher capital cost and permanent infrastructure. The region would need substantial right-of-way or conversion of existing road lanes, and careful integration with historic downtown streets.
2. Streetcar / tram
   Streetcars are lower-speed rail vehicles usually sharing road space (or running in short, dedicated lanes). They can work well for downtown circulation and short-distance connections (e.g., park-and-ride to historic districts) and tend to stimulate local development — but passenger capacity and top speed are lower than light rail.
3. Commuter rail / existing-rail upgrades
   If existing freight corridors or short-distance rail rights-of-way can be used, a commuter or regional rail approach is an option — best for longer-distance commuters (e.g., Summerville–North Charleston–Charleston), but less suitable for frequent one-seat trips inside downtown where stops must be close and frequent.
4. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) — the path already chosen
   Charleston’s region is actively building the Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT), a modern BRT corridor with dedicated lanes, articulated electric buses, off-board fare collection and frequent service. BRT can deliver near-rail service levels at substantially lower cost and with faster delivery. The LCRT is advancing through engineering and federal approvals now.  
5. Ferries, microtransit, and demand management
   Expanded ferry service, microtransit (on-demand shuttles), better bike/ped infrastructure, congestion pricing and parking policy changes are lower-capital or complementary steps that reduce car trips and increase the usefulness of any fixed-guideway system.

Costs — big picture and real examples

Transit capital costs vary enormously depending on whether lines are at-grade, elevated or tunneled, and how much land acquisition and station work are required. Historical U.S. projects in the Federal Transit Administration database demonstrate a huge range — from roughly $10 million per mile for very simple at‑grade projects to hundreds of millions per mile (and in rare cases near $1 billion/mi) for complex tunneled segments. That variability means any Charleston estimate must be corridor‑specific. 

By contrast, the Lowcountry Rapid Transit BRT project — a 21‑mile system with dedicated guideway in many sections, electric buses, stations and a maintenance facility — is being planned at a total regional cost in the hundreds of millions (press reporting and project materials have cited figures in the $600M+ range for major phases). BRT’s per‑mile capital cost is typically much lower than light rail for equivalent service and can be a faster way to get high-quality frequent transit in place. 

Estimates to build new light‑rail in U.S. cities commonly fall into the tens to low‑hundreds of millions of dollars per mile for at‑grade projects, and much higher if significant elevated or tunneled work is required. Operating costs, rolling stock and maintenance facilities are additional and ongoing line-item expenses. 

Advantages (what Charleston would gain)

• Traffic relief and reliability: High‑capacity transit shifts people off single-occupant cars, reduces congestion on key corridors, and provides predictable travel times during peak periods.  
• Economic development: Rail and high‑quality BRT stations often spur transit-oriented development, increase property values and concentrate jobs and housing near frequent service.  
• Environmental and equity benefits: Electric vehicles and modal shifts reduce emissions; transit gives options to residents without cars, improving access to jobs and services.  
• Tourism and downtown circulation: Frequent, legible transit helps move visitors and residents through the dense historic core without adding cars to fragile streets.  

Challenges and tradeoffs

• Cost and financing: Rail is expensive and takes time to build; it usually requires a mix of local, state and federal money and political consensus. The historic downtown’s narrow streets make dedicated rail lanes politically and technically tricky.  
• Right‑of‑way and construction impacts: Building fixed rail can require property acquisition or long construction periods that disrupt neighborhoods and businesses.
• Ridership and justification: Any expensive rail program must demonstrate sufficient projected riders to justify capital and operating subsidies. Planners must carefully model demand and land‑use scenarios.  
• Resilience: Charleston faces flooding and sea‑level rise; any fixed infrastructure must be sited and designed with resilience and long‑term maintenance needs in mind.  

A pragmatic path forward

1. Finish LCRT and measure results: The current Lowcountry Rapid Transit BRT is a near-term, federally-supported investment that can deliver many benefits similar to light rail at lower cost and can be built faster. Monitor ridership, traffic impacts, and development effects.  
2. Use BRT as a stepping stone: If demand grows along BRT corridors, corridors can be upgraded incrementally (higher-capacity vehicles, more dedicated guideway, or in the long term conversion to rail where justified).  
3. Invest in downtown circulation and feeder services: Complement trunk corridors with frequent local shuttles, ferries, safe bike lanes and improved pedestrian access so the whole system works together.  
4. Protect funding and design for resilience: Pursue federal capital grants, state and local matches, and make sure projects account for flooding and sea‑level rise in siting and design.  

Charleston has the pieces of the puzzle — an active regional transit authority, a major BRT program underway, and detailed downtown transit study work — which together create an opportunity to build a multimodal network that reduces congestion and supports sustainable growth. Whether the next step is “little rail” (streetcar or light rail) or upgrading BRT to rail over time will depend on corridor‑level studies, funding availability, and whether ridership and development patterns support the higher up‑front cost of track-based systems. 

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

By Mark A Leon

Nestled on Maybank Highway in the heart of James Island, Muddy Waters Coffeeshop (1739 Maybank Hwy) has been a cornerstone of Charleston’s coffee culture since Michele Hoben and her family opened its doors in 2005. Born from the owners’ West Coast backgrounds and their love for the coffee scene in Seattle, Muddy Waters was founded after Michele and George Hoben noticed a lack of locally owned, quality coffee shops in Charleston.

Their vision: create an inviting space for the community to gather, connect, and enjoy exceptional coffee crafted with care.

A Welcoming, Local Experience

Locals and visitors alike praise Muddy Waters for its warm ambiance and friendly atmosphere. The coffee bar caters to early risers, students, busy professionals, and casual coffee lovers with its extensive hours—opening at 6:30am most days and welcoming guests well into the evening. Whether stopping in for a quick caffeine fix or settling in for a relaxed conversation, patrons find comfort in the shop’s unique menu (standouts include the lavender honey latte and Muddy Mocha) and the personal touch provided by the staff.

Reviewers frequently mention the sense of community that radiates from Muddy Waters. The shop is described as more than a business—it’s a local hub where connections form, ideas spark, and neighbors greet one another as friends. The dedication to remaining locally owned ensures that the coffeeshop reflects the spirit and tastes of James Island itself.

Michele Hoben: Heartfelt Commitment to Community

At the center of Muddy Waters’ success is Michele Hoben, owner and operator. Michele’s commitment to community goes beyond serving excellent coffee; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and supporting the vibrancy of James Island. She intentionally sources local goods to feature in the shop, showcases regional artists, and helps create opportunities for small business partnerships.

Michele’s leadership style encourages both her team and customers to value kindness, creativity, and mutual support. Her approach—rooted in years spent among Seattle’s vibrant coffee scene—translates to an ethos where every guest feels appreciated, and the shop actively participates in community betterment. Muddy Waters frequently hosts community events, supports local causes, and remains a welcoming environment for all, underscoring Michele’s lifelong dedication to making a difference at the neighborhood level.

Why Muddy Waters Matters
• Local Ownership: Michele and her family’s stewardship ensures every decision benefits both the shop and the wider James Island community.
• Community Connection: The coffeeshop acts as a hub for local creatives, students, and professionals, reinforcing social ties and supporting local enterprise.
• Longevity and Reliability: Open for over twenty years, Muddy Waters is a trusted mainstay that continues to evolve and serve new generations.

Muddy Waters Coffeeshop isn’t just where Charleston goes for coffee—it’s where James Island goes to find community, comfort, and connection. Thanks to Michele Hoben’s ongoing commitment, the shop stands as a testament to what a passionate, local owner can do for a neighborhood and beyond.

Follow Muddy Waters on Instagram.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Photo Credit: Muddy Waters