Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A. Leon

ABC Education Group is partnering with the Tri-County (Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester) to support our area schools and communities. They are seeking families to help support our local schools and community!

About the Tri-County Host Family Program

Our students through ABC Education Group are between 15-17 years of age and attend local high schools for one academic year. They reside in the community with a Host family for their experience.

Students have a full comprehensive health insurance policy provided to them for their stay, pay for their own personal expenditures such as computer, cell phone, clothing, school sports or activities, a prom dress or yearbook, etc. They have access to monthly spending money for meals or recreation with their friends.

Host families provide the student accommodation, private or shared room, and meals in home. They love living with an American family and are excited to share their culture and customs. They all have a high proficiency level of English and a solid academic grade history in order to be able to attend an American high school and take classes all day in English.

Our students are from a diverse group of countries for next year—Italy, Spain, Germany, Turkey, Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico, Brazil, South Korea, etc. You as the Host can select the gender, country and any particular interests that a student has. For example—a family that is involved in soccer may wish to host a student from Spain or Brazil who plays, a family that is involved in music or arts can select a student who has these interests. Many of our students excel at horsemanship and love to ride! 

We ensure that families who have pets in the home or special dietary restrictions have the option to select a student who would meet those requirements. The students are unable to work part time in the community but can do tasks to earn extra money such as babysitting, dog walking, helping with yardwork. Take them with you—to Costco, the mall, visiting family and friends, a day trip—they are so excited to learn more about American culture and the lifestyle.

Click HERE to learn more today and make an impactful difference in the Lowcountry.

If you have any questions, please email Elysa.

By Mark A Leon

Charleston Prestige Cleaners has been a trusted family-owned dry cleaning service in Charleston, SC, since 1967, proudly serving the Low Country community for over five decades. Originally known as Yeaman’s Hall Dry Cleaners, the business was purchased by Brian Meden in 2000, who, alongside his wife Jeanne since 2014, has continued to uphold the tradition of expert garment care while expanding services with modern cleaning technologies.

The company specializes in a wide range of services including certified dry cleaning for designer and delicate garments, home and commercial laundry, and bridal gown cleaning, restoration, and preservation-highlighting their commitment to preserving cherished memories through expert care of wedding attire. 

Their use of dermatologically tested and biodegradable cleaning agents ensures both quality results and environmental responsibility.

Charleston Prestige Cleaners emphasizes customer convenience with online booking, laundry pick-up, and delivery services, making garment care hassle-free for busy Charleston residents. The staff’s passion for laundry care transforms what many see as a chore into a professional service marked by integrity, respect, and conscientiousness.

The business and family enjoys a loyal customer base and positive reviews for professionalism and attention to detail and remains actively involved in daily operations, striving to maintain high cleaning standards and customer satisfaction.

With locations downtown and in West Ashley, Charleston Prestige Cleaners continues to be a cornerstone in Charleston’s garment care industry, blending family values with expert service to meet the evolving needs of their community. 

Their dedication to quality and personalized service has made them a go-to dry cleaner for locals seeking reliable and thorough cleaning for everything from everyday wear to treasured formalwear.

Charleston Prestige Cleaners truly stands out as a longstanding family business in Charleston, SC, offering expert dry cleaning and laundry services since 1967, with a strong focus on quality, customer care, and preserving special garments for generations to come.

Follow Charleston Prestige Cleaners on Instagram.

Summerville, S.C. – The ATI Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Advanced Technology International (ATI), is proud to announce its investment in the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce’s People First initiative,designed to eliminate opportunity gaps and build a more skilled regional workforce.

This effort will focus on creating a more coordinated, inclusive and data-driven workforce system acrossthe Charleston region. The initiative will serve as a strategic framework to align workforce skills and career preparation with the region’s most critical industry needs, ensuring businesses have the qualified workforce they require to succeed.

“The ATI Foundation exists to uplift the communities where our employees live and work,” said Dolly Pelto,executive director of the ATI Foundation. “By supporting People First, we’re investing in a brighter future — one where all students have access to opportunity and the resources needed to thrive.”

The ATI Foundation’s mission is to provide targeted support to communities through education, youth programs and workforce initiatives. The investment in People First represents a shared commitment tocommunity growth and long-term economic strength.

“Our work at ATI is about solving complex national problems,” said Mica Dolan, president and COO of ATI andchair of the ATI Foundation. “The Foundation allows us to bring that same problem-solving spirit to local challenges — and People First is exactly the kind of forward-thinking initiative we’re proud to back.”

Learn more about the ATI Foundation and its community-focused initiatives, visit ati-foundation.org.

About ATI Foundation:

Founded in 2024, the ATI Foundation strengthens communities by funding workforce initiatives, connecting talent to career opportunities and supporting volunteer-driven change. Its mission is to eliminate barriers to success and empower individuals to thrive in meaningful work. ATI Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable extension of Advanced Technology International, which manages collaborative R&D initiatives for U.S. government agencies, especially the Department of Defense. It brings together industry, academia and government partners to accelerate the development of advanced technologies and prototypes.

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• Average of 650 People Die Annually in U.S. Boating Accidents;
• 23 South Carolina Fatalites in 2023
• Most Recreational Boating Accidents are Preventable Through Education, Awareness, Preparation and Responsible Boating

Local Auxiliary Offers Free Vessel Safety Exams

CHARLESTON, S.C. — May 13, 2025 — In the spirit of the upcoming NaHonal Safe BoaHng Week (May 17-23), members of the Charleston-area U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary remind all recreaHonal boaters that safe boaHng is no accident. Whether you’re heading out for a day of fishing, water sports, or cruising with the family, preparation and awareness can save lives.

“South Carolina’s abundant waterways offer endless recreational opportunities. However, they also come with risks. In 2023, the state reported 156 recreational boating accidents, resulting in 23 fatalities and 65 injuries. These sobering statistics underscore the importance of adhering to safe boating practices,” said John Swink, Commander of Coast Guard Auxiliary District 7, Division 12.

“The Charleston-area Coast Guard Auxiliary offers multiple boating safety courses and free vessel safety inspections. We encourage all recreational boat operators and their families and friends who ride along to follow these critical boating safety tips: Stay safe. Stay prepared. Enjoy the water responsibly.”

Top Safe Boating Tips from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary:

Wear Your Life Jacket

U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities in 2023, and that 87 percent of those who drowned were not wearing a life jacket. BoaHng accidents ocen happen too fast to grab a stowed life jacket. That’s why boating safety advocates recommend that all boaters and passengers wear their life jackets at all times while on the water. Each life jacket should include a whistle to help rescuers locate you. Make sure each life jacket fits properly—especially for children—and follow your state’s age and use requirements. Remember, the best life jacket is the one you wear!

File a Float Plan

Let someone on shore know your plans. A proper float plan includes your boat description (with a photo), departure location, route, names and ages of passengers, and expected return home. Share this informaHon via text or email with a reliable friend or family member who can raise the alarm if you’re overdue. Make sure the float plan includes the telephone number of the nearest Coast Guard facility. To report an emergency to Coast Guard Sector Charleston contact 843-740-7050.

Stay Connected

Many boaters rely on cell phones for emergencies, but without waterproof protection, those phones could become useless – use a waterproof pouch. Consider carrying a satellite-linked Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon (EPIRB) in areas with limited cell coverage. If you have a marine radio, always monitor channel 16 for emergency broadcasts.

Know Your Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers must be marine-grade, Coast Guard-approved and functional. Disposable units are good for 12 years from the manufacture date, while rechargeable types require annual inspections by a National Fire Prevention Association technician. Check your vessel’s hull length for the required number and type of extinguishers.

Plan Ahead for Emergencies

Have a recovery plan in case someone falls overboard—especially if you’re boating solo. Always wear your Engine Cut-off Switch and consider having a second one onboard, have damage control and first aid kits on board, and make a plan in case the operator is incapacitated.

Pack a Ditch Kit

Always be prepared to abandon ship. Even kayakers should carry a basic emergency kit with survival, safety, and signaling gear in case of a capsize or stranding.

Check Your Visual Distress Signals

Visual distress signals are a key component of your boat’s safety equipment. Ensure flares, SOS lights, orange flag, and other visual signals are up to date and functional. Only use them when someone can see or hear your distress signal—good judgment is key.

Sound Off Safely

Verify your horn, whistle, or bell is in working condition before leaving the dock. Vessel hull length determines what kind of device is required.

Mind Your Lights

Recreational vessels must display proper navigation lights, bow to stern, from sunset to sunrise and during limited visibility. Always ensure the lights are working before leaving the dock, even if it’s daylight. Also, reduce onboard lighting at night to protect the operator’s night vision and prevent collisions.

Monitor the Weather

Check the forecast and Hdal charts before you go—and continuously monitor the weather throughout your trip. CondiHons can change quickly on the water, especially in the Lowcountry.

Take a Safe Boating Class

A boating safety course is crucial for anyone planning to operate a boat, as it provides the knowledge and skills necessary to safely navigate and operate a vessel, potenHally saving lives and preventing accidents.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a wide range of boaHng safety courses. Follow this link to find a

1. nearby in-person course: hlps://cgaux.org/boaHnged/class_finder/index.php

The Auxiliary also offers free Vessel Safety Checks for boats or paddle rack and related equipment for compliance with Federal and state safety requirements. Follow this link to schedule a safety check: hlps://wow.uscgaux.info/i_want_a_vsc/index.php

About the Charleston-area Coast Guard Auxiliary

The Charleston-area Auxiliary is comprised of two floHllas: FloHlla 12-6 East Cooper, and FloHlla 12-8 Charleston, with over 100 total members.

While our primary mission is Recreational Boating Safety, Charleston-area Auxiliarists actively serve as a force multiplier for the local Coast Guard community. Every day our local Auxiliarists can be found engaging in a broad range of actives such as: safety and security surface patrols, radio watch standing, air operations, quarterdeck watch, and culinary support.

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – Aerowerks, a manufacturer for the food service industry, today announced it selects Cherokee County to establish the company’s first U.S. operation. The company’s $10 million investment will create 52 new jobs.

With more than 40 years of experience, Aerowerks specializes in the manufacture of custom material handling systems, including return conveyers, tray accumulators and dish machines, for the food service industry. The company currently operates a production facility in Ontario, Canada.

Aerowerks’ new facility, located at 330 Huntington Road in Gaffney, will design, manufacture and assemble the company’s material handling systems.

Operations are expected to be online later this month. Individuals interested in joining the Aerowerks team should contact Ping Chan (plchan@aero-werks.com).

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES

“We are excited to establish our first U.S. operation in Cherokee County, a strategic location that will allow us to serve our customers better and expand our footprint in the food service industry. Our $10 million investment demonstrates our commitment to growth and innovation, and we are proud to contribute to the local economy by creating 52 new jobs. This facility will be integral to our vision of providing high-quality, custom material handling systems, and we look forward to working alongside the community to create a successful and sustainable operation.” -Aerowerks Corporation of America President Balbir Singh

“South Carolina continues to build on its success in the manufacturing industry. Aerowerks’ $10 million investment in the Cherokee County community will greatly benefit the region and create new opportunities for our people, and we congratulate the company on this new operation.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s business-friendly environment and talented workforce continue to attract companies from around the world. We are proud to welcome Aerowerks and the new jobs it will bring to Cherokee County, and we look forward to building a strong partnership with the company.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are thrilled to welcome Aerowerks to Gaffney. This milestone is a testament to the strength of our community and the incredible partnership with Cherokee County. Together, we are paving the way for economic growth and innovation, ensuring a prosperous future for all our residents.” -Gaffney Mayor Lyman Dawkins III

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Aerowerks selects Cherokee County to establish its first U.S. operation.
• The company’s $10 million investment will create 52 new jobs.
• Aerowerks is a manufacturer for the food service industry.
• The company will be located at 330 Huntington Road in Gaffney, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Aerowerks team should contact Ping Chan (plchan@aero-werks.com).

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Alpha Sheet Metal Works, a metal fabricator, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $3.7 million investment will create 14 new jobs.

With more than 80 years of experience, Alpha Sheet Metal Works specializes in steel, stainless steel and aluminum metal products. The company’s products range from individual parts to complete automated assemblies.

Alpha Sheet Metal Works will add 24,000 square feet next to its existing facility, located at 9525 Hamburg Road in Ladson, to increase its Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, assembly and large-format fabrication capabilities.

Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Alpha Sheet Metal Works team should contact office@alphamachine.com.

QUOTES

“As a family-owned business, we’re thrilled to expand our operations in Charleston County. This community has been incredibly supportive, and we’re excited to continue serving the local businesses and industries here. Our expertise in steel, stainless steel and aluminum fabrication, combined with our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, makes us well-suited to meet the region’s diverse needs.” -Alpha Sheet Metal Works President Joseph W. Schady

“Alpha Sheet Metal Works’ decision to expand in Charleston County demonstrates the continued success of its partnership with South Carolina. We are proud to see the company is reaffirming its confidence in our people and our economy by investing $3.7 million and creating 14 new jobs.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“It is always exciting when a company like Alpha Sheet Metal Works that has deep roots in our state decides to further invest in South Carolina. We congratulate Alpha Sheet Metal Works on all the success it has found in Charleston County and look forward to supporting the company’s continued growth.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“The expansion of Alpha Sheet Metal Works not only strengthens our advanced manufacturing sector but also highlights the fertile ground Charleston County provides for the sustained growth and success of existing businesses.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Rev. Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Alpha Sheet Metal Works is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $3.7 million investment will create 14 new jobs.
• Alpha Sheet Metal Works is a metal fabricator.
• The company is located at 9525 Hamburg Road in Ladson, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Alpha Sheet Metal Works team should contact office@alphamachine.com.

CHARLESTON, S.C., May 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Veterans Help Group (VHG), a team of VA Accredited advocates, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the nation’s largest and most established organization of combat veterans, are proud to announce they are teaming up to launch a new Social Security Disability Eligibility Screener. This cutting-edge tool, aims to empower veterans by simplifying the process for determining eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

The Social Security Disability Eligibility Screener is designed to address the unique challenges veterans face when navigating the complex landscape of disability benefits.  By combining VHG’s expertise in Social Security disability with VFW’s extensive network and commitment to supporting its members, this initiative will provide veterans with a user-friendly, accessible resource to assess their eligibility for what can be an overlooked benefit.

“Veterans have earned the right to every benefit available to them, yet many struggle to understand how Social Security disability might couple and supplement their VA disability compensation,” said Joe Waring, CEO of Veterans Help Group.  “We commend VFW leadership for having the foresight to pursue solutions helping veterans bridge that gap.”

The screener will feature an intuitive online interface, guiding users through a series of questions tailored to the Social Security disability process.

“The VFW is committed to standing by our veterans at every stage of their journey,” said Mike Figlioli, director of VFW National Veterans Service.  “By collaborating with Veterans Help Group on this screener, we’re equipping our members, and veterans everywhere with knowledge and resources they need to understand Social Security disability benefits, enhancing their quality of life and financial stability.”

The launch of the Social Security Disability Eligibility Screener builds on both organizations’ long-standing dedication to serving veterans.  The screener became available to VFW members nationwide in late April 2025, with educational workshops planned to help ensure widespread awareness and adoption.  Veterans and their families are encouraged to contact their Veteran Service Officer for more information.

About Veterans Help Group

Veterans Help Group is a team of VA accredited agents and advocates specializing in securing earned disability benefits.  The company covers all 50 States and actively supports and partners with veterans nonprofits. For more information, please visit www.veteranshelpgroup.com

About Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation’s largest and most established major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.4 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans’ service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit our website at vfw.org. 

SOURCE Veterans Help Group

By Mark A Leon

In the warm waters of Charleston Harbor, where the salt marshes meet the sea, lived a curious young dolphin named Daisy. Daisy was one of the many bottlenose dolphins who called Charleston home, playing near the tidal creeks and shimmering estuaries.

Every day, Daisy and her pod would swim through the brackish waters, hunting for tasty fish like mullet and menhaden. But Daisy loved something even more-exploring the marshes and watching the herons and crabs along the shore.

One sunny morning, Daisy noticed something strange. The fish were hiding, and the water seemed quieter than usual. “Where could everyone be?” she wondered.
Just then, her friend Sammy the seahorse swam by. “Daisy, the fishermen’s boats are coming closer, and the noise is scaring the fish away,” he said worriedly.

Daisy wanted to help. She remembered how her dolphin family used a special trick called strand feeding-working together to herd fish onto the muddy banks. Maybe if they all worked together, they could help the fish feel safe again.

Daisy called her pod. They swam in circles, singing their clicks and whistles, guiding the fish away from the noisy boats and into the quiet marshes. The fish soon felt safe and began to swim freely again.

As the sun set over Charleston’s skyline, Daisy leapt high into the air, splashing down with joy. She had helped her friends and kept the harbor safe.

That night, under the twinkling stars, Daisy snuggled close to her family, dreaming of new adventures in the magical waters of Charleston.

This story is inspired by the real dolphins of Charleston Harbor, known for their playful nature and unique hunting methods like strand feeding in the Lowcountry marshes.

By Mark A Leon

The Boon Project is a nonprofit organization based in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, dedicated to supporting young adults diagnosed with cancer. 

Founded in 2017, its mission is to combat the increased rates of isolation and depression experienced by young adult cancer fighters and survivors, while equipping them with resources to help increase survival rates.

Mission and Vision

The Boon Project’s mission is to address the unique challenges faced by young adults with cancer-challenges that often include social isolation, mental health struggles, and a lack of age-appropriate resources. The organization aims to stand in the gap for these individuals by providing supportive programs, community-building events, and practical cancer-fighting resources. Their vision is to ease the burden for this demographic and, ultimately, improve survival rates.

Key Programs and Services

• Courage Club: This is a free, private online support group and monthly meet-up for young adult cancer fighters and survivors in the Charleston area. The club focuses on combating loneliness and fostering a supportive community. It also includes the “Metathriver” subgroup for those with stage 4 or chronic cancer, meeting quarterly in addition to regular events.

• Patient Support: The Boon Project provides financial assistance grants to help ease the financial burden of cancer treatment. The number of requests for these grants nearly doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the organization was able to fulfill every request, often at an increased level of $500 per grant.

Boon Bags: These are care packages filled with cancer-fighting resources, organizational tools, and information about other helpful organizations. Over 110 Boon Bags have been distributed in the Charleston area.

• Fitness Force: Physical and mental health are addressed through exercise classes and wellness activities, which moved online during the pandemic to maintain engagement and support.

Community and Events

The Boon Project emphasizes the healing power of community. Their motto, “Community is Healing,” is reflected in their regular events, such as the annual Boon Gala, which raises significant funds and awareness for their mission. Other events include family days, dinners, and social meet-ups, all designed to foster connections among young adult cancer fighters and their families.

Impact and Funding

Since its founding, the Boon Project has grown in both reach and impact. It relies on donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events, with the annual gala being a major source of income. The organization has been able to meet every financial assistance request thanks to strong community support. Its programs are tailored to address the socioeconomic side effects of a young adult cancer diagnosis, such as loneliness, financial strain, and the need for age-appropriate resources.

Thank you for all your positive efforts in the Lowcountry.

By Mark A Leon

To the incredible moms across the Lowcountry of Charleston, South Carolina,
On this Mother’s Day, I want to honor and celebrate the strength, love, and grace you bring to your families and communities. The Lowcountry, with its sprawling oaks draped in Spanish moss, shimmering waterways, and rich coastal heritage, is a place of beauty and resilience-just like you, the heart of every home here.

You are the quiet heroes who rise early and stay up late, nurturing your children with boundless patience and fierce devotion. Whether you are walking the sandy shores, cooking fresh seafood from our bountiful waters, or sharing stories steeped in Lowcountry tradition, you embody the spirit of this unique region. Your love is as constant as the tides that shape our coast, steady and life-giving.

In a place where history and nature intertwine, your role is a living legacy. You teach kindness, courage, and the value of community-passing down not only family recipes but also the deep-rooted culture that makes the Lowcountry so special. Your sacrifices, often unseen, build the foundation for future generations to thrive.

Motherhood here is a tapestry woven with moments of joy and challenge, from the laughter echoing through Charleston’s historic streets to the quiet strength found in the marshlands. You are the nurturers of dreams and the keepers of traditions, the ones who make this place feel like home.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication, for the love that flows as freely as the rivers around us, and for the warmth you bring to every corner of the Lowcountry. Today, we celebrate you-not just as mothers, but as the soul of this beautiful region.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms of Charleston’s Lowcountry. Your love shapes our world.

With deepest gratitude and admiration.