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These blazing markets blend big-city amenities with lower housing costs than megacities along the West and East coasts.
Four South Carolina markets were among the Top 15 in this latest report from U.S. News and World Report: Charleston-North Charleston, SC #4, Columbia, SC #7, Greenville/Anderson/Mauldin, SC #8 and Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, NC/SC #12
Key Takeaways
The top-ranked MSAs are located in a variety of locations including Nebraska, Texas, South Carolina and Colorado.
Markets to watch that improved the most between June and January include Orlando, Florida; St. Louis; Greeley, Colorado; Richmond, Virginia; and Southern California’s Inland Empire counties, which include Riverside and San Bernardino.
The most resilient markets that improved year-over-year through January were led by Columbia, South Carolina; Kansas City, Missouri; Los Angeles; San Jose, California; and Boise City, Idaho.
With inflation through February slowly heading in the right direction and 30-year fixed mortgage rates recently settling in at about 6.7%, hopeful homebuyers are slowly edging back into the housing market. But is it enough to unlock a semifrozen housing market?
The good news is that according to Freddie Mac, applications for mortgage purchase loans were up 5% year-over-year through mid-March. At the same time, with stock markets in flux and consumer sentiment dipping sharply in recent weeks, if concerns about rebounding inflation and job security continue to build, that could prompt some buyers to wait for more certainty.
Still, even if consumers hold back on high-ticket items such as new cars, trips and electronics, the stability of owning one’s own home is a powerful motivator to take the plunge into the housing market – especially if it’s relatively affordable, such as in the hottest housing market for January.
Since the metrics for local housing markets will not be equal for each region, state or city, it’s important for buyers and sellers to do their research,orank their must-haves and find the best agents for their situations.
Our analysis of the hottest housing markets pulls from the U.S. News Housing Market Index,which incorporates a wide array of data points and provides a simple yet comprehensive way to rank the covered metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) from frigid to balmy on a scale of 1-100. This particular ranking is based on data from January 2025.
Hottest Markets Overall
Although the hottest MSA scores ranged up to 76.2, there were lower-scoring MSAs under 50, including Boston, Sacramento and two markets in Florida. At the top of the spectrum, the following MSAs are the hottest housing markets ranked from first to fifth:
Omaha, Nebraska – 76.2
Austin, Texas – 72.3
Houston – 72.1
Charleston, South Carolina – 71.6
Denver – 71.5
Given a tightening job market with employers regaining the balance of power, working remotelyfull time is much less of a consideration for today’s homebuyers. As a result, the metrics that define a relatively hot housing market are returning to the traditional basics of local demand, supply and financial considerations. Whether in Nebraska or South Carolina, what these hottest markets seem to share are big-city amenities without the high housing costs of MSAs closer to the megacities along the West and East coasts.
Combination creates global platform within the growing sports retail industry, positioned to serve evolving needs of a broader range of consumers
Poised to drive long-term success through innovative store concepts and digital experiences
Foot Locker shareholders can elect to receive either $24.00 in cash or 0.1168 shares of DICK’S Sporting Goods common stock for each share of Foot Locker common stock
Transaction expected to be accretive to DICK’S Sporting Goods EPS in the first full fiscal year post-close(excludes one-time costs)
PITTSBURGH and NEW YORK/PRNewswire/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. (“DICK’S”) (NYSE: DKS), a leading U.S. based full-line omni-channel sporting goods retailer, and Foot Locker, Inc. (“Foot Locker”) (NYSE: FL), a leading footwear and apparel retailer, today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which DICK’S will acquire Foot Locker. This transaction implies an equity value of approximately $2.4 billion and an enterprise value of approximately $2.5 billion.
Foot Locker has a strong history of sneaker expertise that sparks discovery and ignites the power of sneaker culture through its portfolio of brands, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS, and atmos. It encompasses approximately 2,400 retail stores across 20 countries in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, and a licensed store presence in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. In 2024, Foot Locker achieved net worldwide sales of $8 billion. DICK’S expects to operate Foot Locker as a standalone business unit within its portfolio and maintain the Foot Locker brands.
“We have long admired the cultural significance and brand equity that Foot Locker and its dedicated Stripers have built within the communities they serve,” said Ed Stack, Executive Chairman of DICK’S. “We believe there is meaningful opportunity for growth ahead. By applying our operational expertise to this iconic business, we see a clear path to further unlocking growth and enhancing Foot Locker’s position in the industry. Together, we will leverage the complementary strengths of both organizations to better serve the broad and evolving needs of global sports retail consumers.”
“We look forward to welcoming Foot Locker’s talented team and building upon their expertise and passion for their business, which we intend to honor and amplify together,” said Lauren Hobart, President and CEO of DICK’S. “Sports and sports culture continue to be incredibly powerful, and with this acquisition, we’ll create a new global platform that serves those ever evolving needs through iconic concepts consumers know and love, enhanced store designs and omnichannel experiences, as well as a product mix that appeals to our different customer bases.”
“Today’s announcement marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Foot Locker and is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to our mission,” said Mary Dillon, CEO of Foot Locker. “By joining forces with DICK’S, Foot Locker will be even better positioned to expand sneaker culture, elevate the omnichannel experience for our customers and brand partners, and enhance our position in the industry. We are pleased to provide shareholders with a transaction structure that offers the choice of significant and immediate cash value or the opportunity to invest in the combined company and benefit from the substantial upside potential. I am proud of all that our teams around the world, including our Stripers, have accomplished to reach this milestone moment, and am confident this transaction represents the best path for our shareholders and other stakeholders.”
The proposed acquisition represents an important strategic milestone for DICK’S whereby the combined company offers significant strategic and financial benefits:
Create a global platform within the growing sports retail industry. The transaction will better position the combined company to serve consumers worldwide and expands DICK’S addressable market opportunity. By combining with Foot Locker, DICK’S will be poised to serve consumers not only in new locations in the U.S. through Foot Locker’s complementary real estate portfolio, but also internationally for the first time. With strong long-term industry tailwinds, the combined company is well positioned for long-term growth.
Serve a broader set of consumers across differentiated concepts. Iconic concepts will cater to a broad spectrum of consumers, from performance-focused athletes to sneakerheads. Building upon the groundbreaking learnings from DICK’S House of Sport and Foot Locker’s Reimagined Concept stores, the combined company will provide an unmatched immersive and innovative retail experience for consumers.
Strengthen relationships with brand partners through global reach. Together, DICK’S and Foot Locker will serve as a stronger partner for key brands, offering multiple platforms for both established and emerging partners to showcase their assortments, connect with athletes and increase visibility on a global level.
Invest in future growth through an industry-leading omnichannel experience. DICK’S has a history of strong growth and aims to invest in and grow the Foot Locker brand and position the combined company for long-term success. The combination will drive growth through differentiated store concepts and robust digital experiences to enable sustainable long-term profitable growth.
Unlock operational efficiencies that create shareholder value. DICK’S expects the transaction to be accretive to EPS in the first full fiscal year post-close (excludes transaction and other one-time costs to achieve synergies) and to deliver between $100 to $125 million in cost synergies in the medium-term achieved through procurement and direct sourcing efficiencies.
Additional Transaction Details
Under the terms of the merger agreement, which has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of DICK’S and Foot Locker, Foot Locker shareholders will elect to receive either (i) $24.00 in cash or (ii) 0.1168 shares of DICK’S common stock for each share of Foot Locker common stock. The election is not subject to a minimum or maximum amount of cash or stock consideration.
Based on the closing price of Foot Locker common stock on 5/14/2025, the $24.00 per-share consideration represents a premium of approximately 66% to Foot Locker’s 60-trading day volume weighted average price. The total consideration represents an acquisition multiple of approximately 6.1x fiscal 2024 adjusted EBITDA.
DICK’S intends to finance the acquisition through a combination of cash-on-hand and new debt.
The transaction is subject to Foot Locker shareholder approval and other customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in the second half of 2025.
Goldman Sachs is serving as financial advisor to DICK’S and provided fully committed bridge financing. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz is serving as DICK’S legal advisor. Evercore is serving as financial advisor to Foot Locker, and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is serving as Foot Locker’s legal advisor.
About DICK’S Sporting Goods
DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) creates confidence and excitement by inspiring, supporting and personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, the leading omnichannel retailer serves athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in more than 850 DICK’S Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, Public Lands and Going Going Gone! stores, online, and through the DICK’S mobile app. DICK’S also owns and operates DICK’S House of Sport and Golf Galaxy Performance Center, as well as GameChanger, a youth sports mobile platform for live streaming, scheduling, communications and scorekeeping.
Driven by its belief that sports have the power to change lives, DICK’S has been a longtime champion for youth sports and, together with its Foundation, has donated millions of dollars to support under-resourced teams and athletes through the Sports Matter program and other community-based initiatives. Additional information about DICK’S business, corporate giving and employment opportunities can be found on dicks.com, investors.dicks.com, sportsmatter.org, dickssportinggoods.jobs and onInstagram, TikTok, Facebook and X.
About Foot Locker
Foot Locker, Inc. is a leading footwear and apparel retailer that unlocks the “inner sneakerhead” in all of us. With approximately 2,400 retail stores in 20 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and a licensed store presence in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, Foot Locker has a strong history of sneaker authority that sparks discovery and ignites the power of sneaker culture through its portfolio of brands, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS, and atmos.
– Ceremonial signing witnessed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar
– Agreement for 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777X airplanes sets a record as the largest widebody order for Boeing, the largest order for 787 Dreamliners and Qatar Airways’ largest-ever order
– Order will support nearly 400,000 jobs in the U.S.
DOHA, Qatar/PRNewswire/ — Qatar Airways and Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced the carrier will purchase up to 210 widebody jets, which sets new records as the largest widebody order for Boeing, including the largest order for 787 Dreamliners and Qatar Airways largest-ever order. This purchase, which also includes additional orders for Boeing’s new 777-9, will support approximately 400,000 jobs in the U.S. and position the award-winning Middle Eastern airline for further international expansion.
The order includes:
130 787 Dreamliners, the long-range, ultra-efficient widebody airplane family that has delivered a 25% fuel-use improvement compared to airplanes it replaces and superior comfort for passengers. Ten orders were previously booked as unidentified.
30 777-9s, the world’s largest twin-engine airplane that is designed to set new standards in efficiency by reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, while elevating the passenger flight experience.
Options for an additional 50 787 and 777X airplanes.
U.S. President Donald J. Trump and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatarjoined Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Popeand Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer to witness the order signing.
“We are happy to announce our agreement with Boeing and our partnership in the largest aircraft order in our history. A critical next step for Qatar Airways on our path as we invest in the cleanest, youngest and most efficient fleet in global aviation. This so we can meet the strong demand in the airline as we seamlessly connect passengers to the world better than anyone,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. “After two consecutive years of record-breaking commercial performance and with this historic Boeing aircraft order we’re not simply chasing scale, we’re building strength that will allow us to continue to deliver our unmatched products and customer experiences. We thank our Boeing partners for answering the call and look forward to a future of continued smart growth together.”
“We are deeply honored that Qatar Airways has placed this record-breaking order with Boeing, one that solidifies their future fleet with our market-leading widebody airplane family at its center,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Our team is looking forward to building 787s and 777s for Qatar Airways into the next decade as they connect more people and businesses around the world with unmatched efficiency and comfort.”
Qatar Airways currently operates more than 150 Boeing airplanes, including 777 and 787 passenger jets and 777 Freighters. With this purchase, Qatar Airways will become the largest 787 Dreamliner operator in the Middle East.
About Qatar Airways A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for the unprecedented eighth time at the 2024 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organization, Skytrax. Qatar Airways has been the World’s Best Airline in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024. The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, also taking home, ‘World’s Best Business Class’, ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’. As leaders in industry innovation and digital adoption, Qatar Airways was also recently voted the ‘World’s Best Airline Website’ by World Travel Tech Awards.
Qatar Airways was the first Airline in the Middle East to be certified to the highest level of IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) program, based on recognized environmental management system principles (such as ISO 14001). As an inaugural signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration in March 2016, Qatar Airways became the first airline globally to be certified to the industry standard for the prevention of illegal wildlife trafficking in aviation.
Qatar Airways currently flies to over 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, the ‘World’s Best Airport’, as voted by Skytrax in 2021, 2022, and 2024. In 2024, Hamad International Airport also received the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade for 10 consecutive years, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’ for the second year in a row.
About Boeing A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.
It’s our birthday month! We’re celebrating with $25 off any level membership (including renewals or gifts) through TOMORROW, May 22, using code HBDMEM25 at checkout!
By renewing early, no time will be lost! Your membership renewal begins when your current one ends, and we’ll even add an extra month beyond that! By renewing as a member, you will continue to help us care for sick and injured sea turtles, provide education programming for students and continue our critical conservation work both within our walls and beyond.
Click HERE to get your discounted membership or remewal.
A Channel for Hope Through Faith, Rock, and Resilience
CHARLESTON, S.C., May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Christian Rock artist and songwriter Matthew Hartley has released his latest single, “Heaven’s Calling,” accompanied by a powerful music video that premiered on May 18 on YouTube. Both the song and video serve as a compelling call to hope, inviting listeners to find light in life’s darkest valleys—and to hear that still, small voice reminding them they’re not alone.
“Do not let your circumstances dictate your journey.”
A deeply personal anthem, “Heaven’s Calling” draws from Hartley’s own experiences with loss, healing, and renewed faith. Written during a season of heartbreak following a painful divorce, the song’s lyrics surfaced in a moment of total emotional exhaustion:
“When your heart is bawling, you know that Heaven’s calling … out your name.”
Hartley has been writing songs since the age of 8, growing up immersed in the raw energy of rock icons like Poison, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake and Van Halen. That rock foundation—combined with a rediscovered Christian faith—now fuels his bold and heartfelt musical mission.
“Heaven’s Calling” is both a spiritual awakening and a creative milestone.
The music video, which debuted Sunday (The Sabbath), is visually anchored in themes of resilience and compassion. It features real-world disaster footage—highlighting the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024—alongside scenes of heroic rescue efforts and community support. Filmed across rooftops and iconic locations in Charleston, the video juxtaposes human vulnerability with divine strength, placing Hartley in front of landmarks including St. Michael’s Church, Cannon Park, and the Charleston City Market.
“Love is powerful; the best of people through devastation is remarkable,” Hartley reflects. “And for those, Heaven’s calling too.”
To bring the video to life, Hartley and his team built a storyboard, secured multiple film permits, and coordinated all production logistics—all within just 30 days. The speed and synchronicity of the process felt extraordinary.
“It was ordained how it all came together,” says Hartley. “To do this is such a blessing. It’s a process of creation, and you have to be flexible and fluid and enjoy the ride. It’s not about the money or the outcome — it’s about the journey.”
Produced by music industry legend, David Kershenbaum, acclaimed for his work with Tracy Chapman and Duran Duran, “Heaven’s Calling” also marks the first single from Hartley’s forthcoming EP. The project is being developed under his own independent label and creative company, Imagine Peak Studios.
Through Imagine Peak, Hartley hopes to support other independent musicians by offering guidance, resources, and a model of perseverance and purpose-driven artistry.
“Do not let your circumstances dictate your journey. Age or time is irrelevant, and if you have a passion for something just do it. Praise God. Love your family and neighbors. And, live your life.”
“Heaven’s Calling” is now streaming on all major platforms.
Visionary flrm celebrates four decades of investing in people, place, and purpose across the Carolinas
Charleston, S.C. (May 15, 2025) – SeamonWhiteside (SW+), a full-service site design firm with offces throughout the Carolinas, is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2025. What began in 1985 as a bold idea to bring landscapearchitects and civil engineers under one roof has evolved into a firm of more than 200 professionals with six offces across North and South Carolina. This milestone commemorates four decades of dedication to people, place, and purpose.
Founded by Stuart Whiteside and Kenny Seamon in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, SW+ was the first firm in the Lowcountry to offer both civil engineering and landscape architecture services. This pioneering model not only increased effciency but also provided a higher level of service for their clients. Their visionary collaboration set a new standard in land design while maintaining focus on their key values: passion, collaboration, quality, and care.
“What Stuart and Kenny built in 1985 was more than a business model; it was a culture of care that still defines ustoday,” said Russ Seamon, president of SW+. “Forty years later, that same belief guides everything we do. As we continue to grow and innovate, our foundation in investing in our people, partnering with our clients, designing withintegrity, and creating places that make a positive, lasting impact on the communities we serve will remain the same.”
many others. SW+ continues to expand its strategic growth to include surveying, waterresources, and construction administration services, with offces now in Greenville, Summerville, Spartanburg, Charlotte, and Raleigh.
Nexton (Summerville, SC)
SW+’s commitment to care, a company-wide value rooted in putting people and quality first, has cultivated lasting relationships with clients, employees, and community partners. Today, the firm is home to 207 employees, including 34 “Decade Club” members who have contributed their expertise to the firm for over 10 years, a testament to SW+’sculture of mentorship, advancement opportunities, and work-life balance.
SW+ also leads with heart. Through its philanthropic arm, Green Square, which focuses on wellness, vibrancy, and education, the firm’s values are deeply rooted in giving back through employee-led volunteerism and pro bono design services. Strategic partnerships with organizations such as Camp Happy Days, Miracle League, Windwood Farms,and years of work with Green Heart Project, including the Urban Farm at Enston Homes, exemplify SW+’s community-centered mission and dedication to giving back.
Looking to the future, SW+ is poised to continue its legacy of innovation through sustainable growth strategies, the integration of emerging technologies, and the cultivation of
next-generation leadership. With a dedicated innovation department and multi-tiered mentorship programs, the firmis committed to “elevating the site design experience” for decades to come.
As SW+ celebrates this 40-year milestone, the firm honors its history while looking to the future and will continue prioritizing people, pushing boundaries, and helping communities in the Southeast thrive.
To learn more about SeamonWhiteside, its offces, and projects, visit www.SeamonWhiteside.com.
SeamonWhiteside (SW+) is a full-service site design firm providing master planning, civil engineering, landscape architecture, urban design services, and permit coordination to public and private clients throughout the Carolinas. SW+ elevates the site design experience through a full commitment to people, clients, plans, and communities. Their passion, collaboration, quality, and care results in innovative spaces that enrich lives and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Headquartered in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, SeamonWhiteside also has offces in Summerville, Greenville, Spartanburg, Charlotte, and Raleigh, North Carolina. For more information on SW+, visit www.seamonwhiteside.com.
Laughing Seed Cafe, a popular vegetarian/vegan cafe located at 40 Wall Street in Downtown Asheville, North Carolina is closing after 32 years. In an emotional letter on Facebook, the team showed their love for their loyal customers and the community by saying:
Dear Friends,
For 32 years it has been our honor to serve you the healthy and creative vegetarian & vegan cuisine Laughing Seed has come to be known for. When we look back over the years of dedication and hard work, we’re so proud of it all, but we are now approaching the end of our journey. We have made the difficult and very bittersweet decision to permanently close our beloved Laughing Seed on May 31st. As many of you know we are a family-owned restaurant, and we no longer have the time, energy, or motivation to continue to operate such a demanding business in these challenging times. It’s been a rough 5 years since Covid and they have really taken their toll in terms of costs, staffing, downtown issues, and our drive to keep going. We hoped we could come back from Helene in a positive way, but have decided it’s more than we can manage as summer approaches. Times have changed, we’ve changed, Asheville has changed, and the reality is that we need to bow out and head toward our next adventure.
Our heartfelt thanks to the hundreds of talented staff members who have contributed to our success over the years, and of course to our incredibly devoted customers. It is so hard to know we will not be there for you when you next crave a Harmony Bowl or Hempnut Burger, but we strongly feel that now is the right time for us to move on. We hope you will stop by for a last Laughing Seed fix and to say goodbye. To our current staff, thank you so much for coming back after Helene, in spite of the uncertainty, and making the best of a changed world. We are so sorry to bring things to a close and will do our best to assist and support you during this transition.
Our hope is that another wonderful restaurant will move into the space that we’ve called home for so many years and keep the magic alive at 40 Wall St. For any inquiries please email Joan at laughingseed.joan@gmail.com.
We love you, Asheville. It’s been a great run. Thanks to everyone who has supported us over the years. Peace, love, and harmony bowls to all!
May 19, 2025 (Charleston, SC) — Spoleto Festival USA has unveiled Hadi Falapishi’s evocative artwork, Professional Painter in a Dream, as the official poster for the 2025 Festival. The artwork is from the artist’s Professional Painter series in which Falapishi explores identity by inserting his own likeness into a variety of scenes, often in direct reference to famous paintings or movements (in this case, from Surrealism), or moments in history. The poster, unveiled at The Charleston Place, is now available for purchase ($35) at spoletousa.org, at Spoleto’s ticket kiosk at The Charleston Place, or by calling 843.579.3100. The Charleston Place is part of BHC, Spoleto Festival USA 2025’s Premiere Hospitality Partner.
“This year’s poster, created by a truly exceptional artist, captures the vibrant energy and artistic dynamism that defines our festival,” says Spoleto Festival USA General Director and CEO Mena Mark Hanna. “It beautifully hints at the extraordinary performances and unexpected discoveries that await our audiences this season, offering a visual testament to the diverse tapestry of talent we bring to Charleston. It’s our sincere hope that this striking piece will not only capture your eye but also spark conversation and deepen your appreciation for the power of artistic vision.”
By positioning himself within these notable settings, Falapishi engages in a dialogue with the past, simultaneously reinterpreting their significance and inviting viewers to consider personal identity throughout classical art.
Falapishi (b. 1987) was born in Tehran, Iran and currently lives and works in New York City. Falapishi received his master’s degree from Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York in 2016. Falapishi has had solo exhibitions in the U.S. and internationally, and his work has been included in numerous group exhibitions. His art is held in the permanent collections of institutions such as the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Professional Painter in a Dream, 2025 is courtesy of the artist and Andrew Kreps Gallery, New York. Special thanks to Lara A. Björk, Founder & Principal Advisor at Von Rudebeck Art Advisory, for her skillful guidance and partnership in organizing Spoleto Festival USA’s 2025 poster.
SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA
Spoleto Festival USA was founded in 1977 by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gian Carlo Menotti, who sought to create an American counterpart to the annual Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy, which he had founded in 1958. Now in its 48th year, Spoleto Festival USA is internationally recognized as America’s premier performing arts festival. For 17 days and nights each spring, Spoleto Festival USA fills Charleston’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces with performances in opera; theater; dance; and chamber, symphonic, choral, and jazz music. Spoleto’s mission is to present programs of the highest artistic caliber while maintaining a dedication to young artists, a commitment to all forms of the performing arts, a passion for contemporary innovation, and an enthusiasm for providing unique performance opportunities for established artists. Beyond its role as a launching pad for young talent, Spoleto also serves as a catalyst for cultural change and has aided in Charleston’s flourishing as a top arts and culture destination. With General Director & CEO Mena Mark Hanna at its helm, the 2025 season takes place from May 23 to June 8 in various locations on the downtown peninsula. Spoleto Festival USA is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization.
Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner planned the new project after discovering unmarked graves believed to belong to enslaved African Americans. Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner planned the new project after discovering unmarked graves believed to belong to enslaved African Americans.
Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist monastery in rural South Carolina, has inaugurated a new meditation garden memorializing the enslaved African Americans and Indigenous who once worked the land, part of a larger effort for atonement at the 76-year-old institution.
A blessing ceremony with Bishop Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS of Charleston took place April 26 at the property in Moncks Corner, which functioned as Mepkin Plantation under prominent British colonists beginning in the late 18th century.
“We don’t have to be upset. Truth can always hurt,” said Fabre-Jeune, a Haitian-born prelate who is the first Black Catholic bishop in South Carolina.
“We don’t like when people tell us the truth. We feel uncomfortable. But after that experience, we know that it was good for us.”
Built in the 1760s, the complex served as the home of Henry Laurens, a Founding Father who served as a president of the Second Continental Congress. His wealth came largely from his involvement in Austin and Laurens, the largest trafficking house in North America. He held some 50 African Americans in bondage at Mepkin.
The 7,000+-acre plantation, home to 300 enslaved persons over the years, was sold several times before being acquired by publishing magnate Henry Luce and his wife, the future congresswoman and conservative activist Clare Booth Luce. Clare converted to Catholicism in 1946 and the couple donated much of the land to the Trappists.
Mepkin Abbey emerged shortly thereafter, with monks from the Abbey of Our Lady of Gethsemani in Kentucky, where the Trappists themselves held enslaved people in their early history. In the decades since its founding, the establishment in South Carolina has welcomed pilgrims and tourists for prayer while also running a variety of agricultural enterprises.
The Mepkin cemetery houses the remains of the Luces and Henry Laurens, as well as Henry’s son John Laurens, an abolitionist who fought in the Revolution and famously attempted to recruit enslaved men as soldiers in exchange for freedom. (The plan was shot down by the South Carolina legislature and John died in battle in 1782.)
20 unmarked graves, believed to house the remains of workers enslaved by Henry Laurens, were discovered adjacent to the Mepkin cemetery last year, according to Abbot Joseph Tedesco.
He helped spearhead the new Truth and Reconciliation Meditation Garden, inspired by the landmark commission formed in South Africa following Apartheid. The planning committee for the Mepkin project included South Carolina State University professors Alison Mc Letchie and Frank Martin, the Charleston Diocese’s Black Catholic Ministries director Kathleen Merritt, Pastor Eleanor Cooper Brown of the International African-American Museum, and Dcn Larry Deschaine, who leads the diocese’s Native American ministry.
Among the new garden’s features are a seven-station historical installation, a lemniscate infinity path, and Garland Weeks’ life-size brass statue of a Christ figure held up by the hand of God.
“This meditation garden is to honor the enslaved and somehow charge the world by compassion,” Tedesco said at the blessing ceremony, which was attended by several notable figures, including U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn.
“Their souls are calling us to be attentive to who they are and what they lived through and how we could change the future.”
Charleston, South Carolina—a city steeped in history and timeless Southern charm—now welcomes Forever Fine Jewelry, a custom jewelry brand founded by Hollie Harris. This expansion marks a new chapter for Hollie, whose passion for creating meaningful, heirloom-quality pieces is deeply rooted in her belief that jewelry should reflect the eternal beauty of the soul.
The Origin Story of Forever Fine Jewelry
Hollie’s journey began at age five, sketching designs that would later evolve into a thriving career. With over eight years of experience in custom design, diamond sourcing, and client relations, Hollie has cultivated a reputation for excellence and creativity. Her work is inspired by global travels and cultural influences, culminating in her earning the prestigious GIA Diamond Graduate degree in 2025.
Forever Fine Jewelry specializes in crafting custom engagement rings, redesigning heirlooms, and offering ready-made pieces that celebrate life’s most precious milestones. Hollie shares: “Collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life is the most rewarding part of what I do. Each piece tells a story—a reflection of love, commitment, and cherished memories.”
A Passion for Connection and Creativity
Operating by appointment only, Hollie works closely with clients to ensure every piece is uniquely tailored to their vision. Whether it’s designing a custom engagement ring or modernizing an heirloom, Hollie approaches each project with care and purpose. Her dedication to personalized service sets Forever Fine Jewelry apart, allowing her to build deep connections with clients and craft truly meaningful pieces.
Charleston, SC: The Perfect Backdrop for Timeless Beauty
Charleston provides the ideal setting for Forever Fine Jewelry’s expansion. The city’s rich history and enduring charm mirror the essence of Hollie’s work—timeless designs that honor tradition while embracing modern elegance. From its iconic architecture to its vibrant arts scene, Charleston is a place where craftsmanship thrives, and stories are celebrated—a natural home for a brand dedicated to creating meaningful keepsakes.
Celebrating Life’s Most Meaningful Moments
At its core, Forever Fine Jewelry is about celebrating life’s most meaningful moments with elegance and ease. Hollie understands that jewelry is more than just adornment—it’s an expression of love, commitment, and identity. Her creations are designed not only to enhance beauty but also to carry emotional weight—a tangible reminder of memories worth cherishing.
As Forever Fine Jewelry settles into its new home in Charleston, it invites residents of the Lowcountry to embark on journeys of creativity and connection through custom-designed treasures. With Hollie Harris at the helm, this boutique brand promises to bring timeless artistry into your life—one dazzling piece at a time.
Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring that captures your unique love story or seeking a way to preserve family history through heirloom redesigns, Forever Fine Jewelry offers an unparalleled experience rooted in passion, craftsmanship, and care. Welcome to Charleston, Forever Fine Jewelry—where timeless beauty meets heartfelt artistry!
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