Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A Leon

Dress for Success Charleston County is a transformative nonprofit dedicated to helping unemployed and underemployed women achieve economic independence. 

Founded in 2003 as the first affiliate of Dress for Success in South Carolina, the organization provides free professional attire, career development resources, and a robust network of support to help women thrive both in work and in life.

Mission and Programs

The core mission of Dress for Success Charleston is to empower women to reach self-sufficiency and success. This is accomplished through several key initiatives:

• Suiting Services: Women referred by partner agencies receive professional outfits tailored for job interviews and the early weeks of employment. The goal is not just to provide one suit, but a small wardrobe to help women feel confident as they transition into the workforce.

• Career Development: Beyond clothing, Dress for Success offers workshops, one-on-one coaching, mentoring, and networking events. These programs focus on building confidence, workplace skills, and financial literacy, ensuring women are prepared for long-term career growth.

• Ongoing Support: The organization fosters a supportive community where women can encourage each other, share experiences, and stay motivated during their job search and career advancement.

Community Impact

Since its inception, Dress for Success Charleston County has served over 5,000 women across Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties. The organization’s impact extends beyond individuals, benefiting families and the broader community by breaking cycles of poverty and promoting economic empowerment.

Events, Donations and Partnerships

Dress for Success Charleston hosts events like the annual “Little Black Dress and Tie” fundraiser, which brings together community members to celebrate women’s achievements and raise funds for ongoing programs

The organization relies heavily on donations of gently used professional clothing and financial contributions from local supporters and businesses.

Click HERE to learn about volunteer opportunities

Click HERE to learn about donating..

Looking Ahead

Founder Margaret Jefferson and her team continue to expand offerings, including new courses on self-care, career development, and financial literacy, ensuring that women in Charleston have the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams.

Short Bio: Margaret Jefferson

Margaret Jefferson is the founder and director of Dress for Success Charleston County, a role she has held since establishing the organization in 2003. A native Charlestonian, Jefferson attended Charleston County Public Schools before earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from Winthrop University. She also holds a technical project management certification from The Citadel.

Jefferson’s career spans both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, where she has served in various leadership roles. Driven by a lifelong commitment to service, she created Dress for Success Charleston to empower women through professional development and support. Under her leadership, the organization has helped thousands of women gain confidence, secure employment, and achieve economic independence.

Jefferson is recognized for her dedication to uplifting others and her belief in the power of community collaboration to create lasting change in Charleston and beyond.

By Mark A Leon 

Tucked away behind a modest white house at 3338 Maybank Highway, Lost Isle has quickly become one of Johns Island’s most distinctive dining experiences, earning national attention and a loyal local following for its unique outdoor vibe and innovative fire-to-table menu.

A Backyard Oasis with a Laid-Back Vibe

Lost Isle is all about atmosphere. There’s no indoor dining—everything happens outside, beneath a canopy of sailcloth and the sprawling branches of a majestic pecan tree. Guests enter through a lush walkway, emerging into a backyard oasis adorned with string lights, chandeliers hanging from live oaks, and the flicker of open fire pits. The setting is cozy and intimate, perfect for date nights, girls’ nights out, or simply unwinding with friends. Even in cooler months, fire pits and blankets keep the vibe warm and inviting.

The service model is casual and approachable: guests order at the bar or grill, then choose their own seating. This setup fosters a relaxed, communal energy, where the focus is on enjoying good food, good company, and the open air.

A Menu Where Fire Meets Feast

Lost Isle’s menu is a celebration of live-fire cooking, blending Southern classics with global flavors. Chef Josh Taylor, who grew up in his mother’s North Georgia restaurant and honed his craft in kitchens across the Southeast, leads the kitchen with a passion for wood-fired cuisine.

Signature small plates include:

• Whipped Ricotta with charred tomato, herb oil, chili honey, and focaccia

• Fire Roasted Olives with grilled bread

• Smoked Fish Dip and Charred Eggplant Dip

• Sweet Potato Hummus with miso, tahini, and pumpkin seed macha

Shareable sides like curry-braised collards, crispy grit cakes, and smoked Brussels sprouts are local favorites, while mains showcase the grill’s versatility:

• Smoked Tomahawk Pork Chop with ancho-cherry glaze and smoked apple salsa

• Charcoal Grilled Chicken with tamarind-chili glaze and Thai basil salsa verde

• Grilled Australian Ribeye with guajillo pepper cream sauce

• Harissa Cauliflower Steak for vegetarians

• Fire Roasted Sapelo Island Clams with chili-chorizo butter

The bar program, curated by co-owner T.J. Lynch, features housemade cocktails, a curated wine list, and local beers. Standout drinks include the Sheeny Neeny and the inventive Miso Juice, blending mezcal, tequila, blood orange, miso, and honey.

Meet the Owners: T.J. Lynch and Josh Taylor

Lost Isle is the brainchild of restaurateur T.J. Lynch and chef Josh Taylor. Lynch, known for opening New York City’s acclaimed Mother’s Ruin and local favorite Lowlife on Folly Beach, brings a wealth of hospitality experience and a knack for creating laidback, welcoming spaces. 

His vision for Lost Isle was to offer Johns Island a casual, high-quality spot where guests could enjoy the outdoors and the primal appeal of live-fire cooking.

Chef Josh Taylor’s culinary journey began in his mother’s restaurant and led him through corporate kitchens and chef roles across the Southeast. His leadership style—relaxed yet efficient—shines in Lost Isle’s bustling, open-air kitchen, where he and his team craft a menu that’s both approachable and adventurous.

A Nationally Recognized Destination

Lost Isle’s commitment to quality and originality hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, it was the only Charleston-area restaurant named to the New York Times Top 50 Restaurants in the U.S., a testament to its fresh approach and local support.

The Lost Isle Experience

Dining at Lost Isle feels like joining a friend’s backyard bonfire—if your friend happened to be a top chef. With its blend of fire-driven cuisine, inventive drinks, and a magical outdoor setting, Lost Isle has redefined what it means to dine out on Johns Island, making it a must-visit for locals and visitorsp alike.

Follow Lost Isle Johns Island’s journey on Instagram.

Photo Credit: Lost Isle and Charleston Daily

COLUMBIA, S.C. – NorthMark Strategies (NorthMark), a multi-strategy investment firm, today announced it selects Spartanburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $2.8 billion investment will create at least 27 new jobs and is expected to utilize regional businesses and suppliers for regular maintenance and operations support.

NorthMark provides strategic advice, asset management and value-added services to privately owned companies around the world. The Spartanburg facility will be the company’s fifth U.S. operation.

NorthMark’s new operation, located at 4000 South Pine Street in Spartanburg, will serve as a state-of-the-art, high-performance computing center designed to support a portfolio of businesses in the engineering and technology sectors. Once operational, the facility will generate its own power on-site, ensuring minimal impact on the power grid.

Initial operations are expected to be online in the third quarter of 2026 with further development phases to follow. Individuals interested in joining the NorthMark team should visit the company’s careers page.

QUOTES

“Of the more than 100 locations across the country we considered, Spartanburg stood out for its strong community, skilled workforce, dynamic economy and strategic advantages. Our investment in this high-performance computing center solidifies our commitment to building for future growth and being prepared to meet the growing demand for HPC capabilities among our current and future investment partners head-on.” -NorthMark Strategies President Jen Byrne

“NorthMark Strategies’ $2.8 billion investment is a milestone moment for Spartanburg County, and a clear reflection of the confidence companies have in our state. This project further positions South Carolina as a national leader in technology and innovation. We proudly welcome NorthMark to South Carolina and look forward to the impact they’ll have for years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“With NorthMark Strategies establishing operations in Spartanburg County, South Carolina continues to add to its already impressive technology industry. We celebrate this remarkable investment in the Upstate and all it will mean for our state and our people. Congratulations to NorthMark and Spartanburg County on this announcement and the opportunities it will bring.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are thrilled to welcome NorthMark Strategies to Spartanburg and look forward to the opportunities this project will bring to our community. Spartanburg will greatly benefit from this highly unique and dynamic investment for years to come. What makes this project even more exciting is that it comes at zero cost to taxpayers and places little to no demand on our existing infrastructure.” -Spartanburg County Council Vice Chairman and Economic Development Committee Chairman David Britt

FIVE FAST FACTS

• NorthMark Strategies (NorthMark) selects Spartanburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation.
• The company’s $2.8 billion investment will create at least 27 new jobs.
• NorthMark is a multi-strategy investment firm.
• The company will be located at 4000 South Pine Street in Spartanburg, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the NorthMark team should visit the company’s careers page.

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Outer Banks star and Goose Creek, South Carolina is joining Jennfer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. in the 2025 release “I Know What You Did Last Summer”. Here is a first look official trailer.

The film is scheduled for a July 18, 2025 release.

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KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C., April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pam Harrington Exclusives, a leading boutique brokerage specializing in Kiawah and Seabrook Island Real Estate, is proud to announce the listing of a one-of-a-kind riverfront estate at 108 Salthouse Lane, now offered at $12 million.

Nestled on approximately 1.5 acres of pristine landscape within The Settlement, a prestigious enclave of the Kiawah Island Club, this exceptional property enjoys unparalleled privacy behind three security gates, 240-degree river and marsh views, and effortless access to the private River Course and Clubhouse, with championship golf, tennis, and five-star dining.

Designed by Charleston architect Zach Carney and brought to life by renowned Buffington Homes, this iconic Lowcountry retreat reflects a commitment to timeless design, enduring materials, and a seamless connection to the natural environment.

“108 Salthouse Lane is the kind of property that rarely comes to market,” said Pam Harrington, Broker-in-Charge of Pam Harrington Exclusives. “It’s a remarkable legacy home — thoughtfully designed, beautifully maintained, and sited on one of the most serene riverfront lots on the island. It’s unique in its ability to offer both intimacy for everyday residential living and ample space to host family and friends in an unforgettable setting”.

The one-owner residence showcases meticulous craftsmanship with its durable slate roof and timeless cedar shake siding, seamlessly integrating into the natural beauty of Kiawah Island. A thoughtfully designed layout maximizes stunning, unobstructed vistas, including a picturesque glimpse of The River Course’s 17th green, visible from the expansive deck featuring frameless glass railings.

Designed for intimate everyday living and grand entertaining, 108 Salthouse Lane boasts a unique compound feel with a substantial primary residence complemented by attached and detached guest houses, providing ample private spaces for family and friends.

Step inside to an elevated, open floor plan illuminated by a gas log fireplace, oversized transom windows, and French doors overlooking the river. The open-concept floor plan, featuring a main-level primary suite, seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living, creating an inviting flow and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Outdoor living is elevated with a private deep-water dock, shared with just one neighbor, offering direct access to the Kiawah River for boating and watersports. An oversized infinity-edge pool with a summer kitchen and convenient pool bathroom creates an idyllic outdoor oasis for carefree days and vibrant gatherings.

On the west side of the home, French doors open to a substantial screened porch with a cozy fireplace, stone spa, recessed lighting, and ceiling fans – truly an extension of the interior, perfect for year-round al fresco dining or simply relaxing and enjoying the views. Additional outdoor highlights include multiple open decks, covered porches, and a walkway encompassing the entire property, leading to the deep-water dock.

Located within the highly sought-after Settlement on Kiawah Island, a Kiawah Island Club Sports Membership is a condition of purchase, granting exclusive access to some of the island’s most coveted amenities, including championship golf and tennis, a luxurious spa, an oceanfront beach club, fine dining venues, and an engaging calendar of private social events.

Kiawah Island is a pristine stretch of coastline known for its wide, flat shores, gentle waves, and untouched natural beauty. Framed by protected rolling dunes and maritime forests, it’s the perfect place to unwind, spot dolphins, or enjoy a peaceful sunrise. Whether you’re walking barefoot along the surf or exploring the island via 30 miles of paved trails, Kiawah offers a tranquil escape just 30 minutes from bustling downtown Charleston.

“108 Salthouse embodies the vision of Kiawah’s sustainable and responsible development cultivated over the past 50 years, seamlessly blending modern luxury with timeless design,” says listing agent Pam Harrington. “It offers exceptional value in today’s luxury market, and we’re excited for discerning buyers in this price range to experience everything this fabulous property has to offer.”

To arrange a private showing or view the full property gallery, visit pamharringtonexclusives.com.

About Pam Harrington Exclusives

Pam Harrington Exclusives has served Kiawah and Seabrook Islands for over four decades, offering unmatched local knowledge and personalized service. The firm is known for its integrity, discretion, and commitment to helping clients find their perfect coastal escape. Charleston’s barrier islands are home to some of the most desirable real estate and luxury waterfront properties on the East Coast. With 47 years of experience, Pam Harrington Exclusives brings expert insight into these niche island markets. Specializing in Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, the firm’s seasoned team offers a deep understanding of the local landscape, delivering trusted guidance and exceptional results for buyers, sellers and investors alike.

SOURCE Pam Harrington Exclusives, Inc.

Photo Credit: Pam Harrington Exclusives

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A bold new musical takes flight in Charleston, South Carolina

By Mark A. Leon

PURE Theatre’s world premiere of “Pleasure Never Lies” is a witty, emotionally resonant and intellectually daring new musical promising a bright future beyond its Charleston debut.

Let’s take a journey together:  Visualize 2 plus hours in an intimate theater where a cast, crew, animators and musicians take you on a journey influenced by the groundbreaking narratives of Grant and Hepburn, The Muppets, Monty Python, Rent and Legally Blonde.  Add in a splash of sexual tension wrapped nicely in the pleasure of intimacy and finally sprinkle memorable musical numbers that will stick with you long after you depart the theater.  

This is “Pleasure Never Lies”, a world premiere musical with book & lyrics by Marshall Hagins, music by Brad Moranz and the inspired direction of Sharon Graci.

How do you make a musical about Ornithology, the study of birds?

It’s often said great entertainment is defined by its ability to continue the conversation.  When a piece of entertainment truly leaves a lasting impact and connects with its audience, it becomes a breathing entity that consumes us and furthers a dialogue.  Whether it was the intended purpose or not, this production did just that. 

Over the next few days, I debated, discussed and theorized evolution, survival of the fittest, love vs pleasure, gender norms and societal impact and the now vs the future.

All these topics blended in homogenous harmony throughout this performance and what a joy it was to see.

Central Antagonism and Attraction

The central conflict lies in the relationship, academic status, believes and secrets of Sam and Charles played beautifully by Kindred Moore and Matt Shingledecker.  Both actors brought skilled musical talents and confidence to every scene.  Their energy played off like the spirits of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy were hovering over the stage.  

If you read up on their careers, it is clear not only are they both driven by a passion for musical theater but have been rewarded with such credits as ‘Into the Woods”, “Wicked”, “Rent”, Les Misérables”, “West Side Story” and “Spring Awakening”.  

Both, natives of Charleston, were thrilled to return home and make their debuts on the Pure stage.

What the audience will see is through strength of character both were able to remain firm to their beliefs, create an authenticity of persona and exude vulnerability without compromising goals.

An Ensemble of Joy

The casting was near flawless with the supporting players adding vocal chops, humor and romance to the story.  

Maddie Casto as Destiny, was comic legend.  She nailed her scenes like a pro and resulted in some of the highest volume of laughter in the audience.  The number “Observable Facts” will play again on Spotify, in other cities and perhaps on Broadway.  It was something that could have been written by The Marx Brothers if they were feminist comics.  

Tiffany Parker as Sheila brought her 23 years of stage experience with a prominent appearance wrought with raw candor, power and wit.  A tour de force indeed!

Teresaa Catherine as Becky was nothing short of whorishly charming in her subtle innocence dabbled in flirtatious charm.  She brought love and comfort to the cast and played it beautifully well.

We adored Shivam V. Patel as the beta with a heart of gold and Noah Anderson as the cautious and slightly worrisome Eddie.  Yet, it was Noah’s leadership and Shivam’s hopeless romanticism as just the right moments that were needed continue the flow of the production.

Birds of Another Feather

We must give a special recognition to Josiah Albright, College of Charleston graduate and puppet designer as well as Anna Rob who assisted as puppeteer.  They effortlessly used suspension of reality to mimic the birds in their natural habitat.  

Conclusion

“Pleasure Never Lies” is a unique musical story that will leave you very satisfied.  We feel this production will have a long future and are so grateful to Pure Theatre and the City of Charleston for serving as the first stop for this new production.

Now playing through May 3, 2025 – Click HERE for tickets.

Photo Credit: David Mandel

Florence’s Lowcountry Kitchen, located at 1271 Folly Road (James Island) announced today on Instagram they will be closing their doors on April 27, 2025.

A new restaurant will be taking over the space. There are no further details.

if you can, stop by for one more meal or a few drinks. We have certainly loved our time at Florence’s and with the staff all the love.

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Permanent Protection of Ecologically Significant Property Further Preserves the Santee Deltas

Charleston, SC, April 22, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is proud to announce the permanent protection of an additional portion of Fairfield Plantation—an ecologically rich and historically significant property located on the South Santee River at the gateway to Charleston County along both sides of U.S. Highway 17.

This conservation success adds 254 acres to an already impressive network of protected lands in the region. Fairfield Plantation lies within a mosaic of large private conservation easements, reinforcing a nearly contiguous landscape of preserved forest and wetlands that shields the Santee Delta from increasing development pressure encroaching from the south. The conserved property also sits in direct proximity to more than 350,000 acres of publicly protected lands, including Francis Marion National Forest (259,000 acres), Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge (66,306 acres), Santee Coastal Heritage Preserve (24,000 acres), and Hampton Plantation State Historic Site (300 acres). 

In 2013, the landowners placed 480 acres of Fairfield Plantation into a perpetual conservation easement with Lowcountry Land Trust. In 2024, they returned to complete their conservation vision by bargain-selling an easement on an additional 254 acres of the property.

“Thanks to this private family’s excellent stewardship and their generous donation of value in placing a conservation easement on the remainder of Fairfield Plantation, the Santee Delta will continue to thrive in its ecologically rich, relatively natural state,” said Hunter Allen, who managed the project for Lowcountry Land Trust. “We’re proud to help secure the future for this remarkable part of the Lowcountry.”

Fairfield Plantation’s conservation easement expansion now stands as a powerful example of how public-private partnerships, community values, and landowner generosity can unite to preserve the Lowcountry’s natural and cultural heritage. The protection of Fairfield Plantation was made possible in part through funding from the Charleston County Greenbelt Program, underscoring the collaborative nature of conservation in the region.

Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTrust on social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.

ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST

Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s coastal ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres of land since its founding in 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful local land trusts in the United States. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.

Trader Joe’s hass officially published the location of its 5th South Carolina location coming soon. In addition to 2 locations in Mount Pleasant, one in Columbia and one in Greenville, Trader Joe’s will be opening a new location in Myrtle Beach, SC at 115 SayeBrook Pkwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588

There is no indication of a open date but early chatter indicates Fall timeframe, perhaps October 2025.

Click HERE for a listing of all South Carolina locations.

Photo Credit: Trader Joe’s

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By Jane Alford jalford@paxtonmedia.com
 

KERSHAW, S.C. — The ADM soybean processing plant in Kershaw will be closing later this spring.

“It’s a total shock to me and to everyone here,” said Kershaw Mayor Mark Dorman, who was notified of the impending closure in an email Tuesday, April 15, from Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), a multinational food processing corporation based in Decatur, Ill.

“ADM has made the difficult decision to close the soybean processing plant in town,” said Christopher Riley, ADM director of state government relations, in the email. “I know this is not easy news to hear, either for our colleagues or for our partners and the Kershaw community. Kershaw has been a great community for ADM to be a part of for over 50 years.”

“It’s been there for decades. It’s a landmark here — everyone knows where ADM is,” Dorman said of the plant at 413 N. Hampton St., just blocks from Kershaw Town Hall. “This is a major blow to us, and a lot of people here are upset about it.”

ADM has run the facility since 1973, when it bought the former Kershaw Oil Mill from the J.T. Stevens family.

Company officials shared the news with employees at the plant later Tuesday, dismissing the front office staff immediately, according to one employee who had been with the company for 21 years.

“We have about 40 colleagues at the facility,” Riley said. “They’ll be able to stay on until we end production, which we expect to be in late May… Once we reach that date, they’ll receive severance, including outplacement assistance. A small number will stay on a little longer to clean and do maintenance in order to safely shut down the plant.”

Why is it closing?

The decision comes as ADM is in the midst of a global restructuring. In February, Reuters reported that ADM planned to cut 700 jobs (1.7% of its global workforce) and cut costs by $500 million to $700 million in the next few years. In late March, Reuters said ADM began cutting jobs in its oilseed division in its European headquarters.

“Many alternative courses of action were considered, but ultimately it was determined that a smaller, older facility like Kershaw is unlikely to be able to compete and serve customer’s needs efficiently,” Riley said.

It is also on the heels of the escalating tariff trade war with China, which is a big importer of U.S. agricultural products, including soybeans and oilseeds. China has recently imposed a 125% tariff on farm products.

ADM spokesperson Dane Lisser said Friday afternoon that the closure is not related to the tariffs, but “to our long-term view of this facility’s ability to compete and serve customer needs efficiently.”

“ADM has an unmatched footprint in North America and around the globe, and we’re continuing to look at opportunities both for strategic simplification and organic growth to ensure we’re operating the right assets to meet the needs of our customers and our company,” Lisser said. 

Other impacts

Dorman said beyond the job losses, the closure will also impact town finances as ADM is one of its three largest water and sewer customers. So will Lancaster County Natural Gas Authority.

“I hated to hear that ADM is closing,” said Rocky A. Hudson, LCNGA general manager. “They are our biggest customer. We will take a big hit with this.”

Dorman also expressed concern about others who will be affected by the closure, including local farmers.

One of those farmers is David Kirk, 54, who’s been farming in the Heath Springs/Rich Hill area all his life, first with his father and now with his son, Brady, on about 2,000 acres. They usually plant about 150-200 acres in soybeans right about now.

He said the only bright spot about this is the timing of the ADM closing announcement, since it came before most farmers have planted their soybeans. At least now, he said, farmers can make some decisions about what to plant, rather than finding out in June or July when the beans are already in the ground.

He said the additional cost of hauling the soybeans to Fayetteville, N.C., which will be the nearest processing plant, will hardly be worth it.

“Soybeans have fell off some from what they were a few years ago. A year or two ago, they were $12-$13 per bushel, now it’s $10,” Kirk said. “Around here, our soils are not so good as soils out west like Iowa and Illinois, where they can make double the bushels per acre. If we make 40-50 bushels here, we’re lucky.”

With that kind of margin, there’s not much extra money or time for hauling the beans further, or waiting in long lines at the plant, like they’ve done at ADM.

“We’re not equipped for long hauls,” Kirk said, noting that they will probably plant more corn to feed their cows, and let some fields lie fallow. His farm also raises turkeys and row crops, so it’s not dependent just on the soybeans, which he said were often planted as a follow-on crop behind corn, wheat or oats.

“It will hurt a lot of farmers,” he said, especially those who grow a lot of soybeans. “It’s like anything else — you have to change with the times and keep going.”

Don Hinson, owner of J&D Inc. in Lancaster, says the closing presents a challenge to his business, which buys soybean meal, hulls and oil from ADM, and also sells them soybeans. His company buys and sells soybean products and trucks them to other farms, usually hauling 10-12 loads a week from the ADM plant.

Some of the products, such as soy hulls, will be harder to get, he said, and soy meal will have to come from the Midwest.

Hinson said it will be, “logistically difficult and will definitely cost us because it will involve more hauling.” But he noted that it will cost farmers more. Where they are used to paying about 25 cents per bushel for hauling, now it will likely be 75 cents, he said.

Hinson said the closing will also impact the local railroad, with fewer cars going to and from Kershaw.

The Kershaw ADM plant’s closing will leave just one soy crushing facility in the Carolinas — the Cargill plant in Fayetteville, two and half hours away, Hinson said. The other closest ones are the Cargill plant in Gainesville and the ADM plant in Valdosta, both in Georgia.

“We hate that it happened,” Dorman said of ADM’s closing. “We pray for the best and hope that some other company will buy it,” noting the plant is next to the vacant property once occupied by the Springs textile mill.

“We feel for the employees and their families, and the farmers, town government, and on and on,” Dorman said of the ripple effect it will have on the community.

Source Link: The Lancaster News

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