Author: Charleston Daily

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing South Carolina’s expansion project in Charleston County has been awarded to the joint venture team of BE&K | HITT. HITT Contracting, a top national commercial construction firm with offices in 14 U.S. markets, including Charleston, and BE&K Building Group, a leading national design-build and construction management firm specializing in aviation and aerospace construction, are partnering to deliver the infrastructure upgrade that is part of Boeing’s recently announced $1 billion expansion investment at its North Charleston campuses.

“HITT is proud to partner with BE&K and Boeing on this transformative expansion in Charleston,” said HITT Co-President Evan Antonides. “This investment reinforces Boeing’s commitment to growth in South Carolina, and we’re honored to help bring their vision to life. Our Charleston team looks forward to delivering a project that will drive economic impact and job creation in the region.”

“We are honored that Boeing has once again entrusted BE&K to continue supporting their vision and goals through this significant expansion at their North Charleston campus,” said Frank Holley, CEO of BE&K. “We look forward to a successful collaboration with HITT and Boeing and the positive impacts this project will bring to the surrounding community and Boeing’s customers around the world.”

BE&K | HITT will serve as the construction manager for the project, with BRPH as the architect of record. Construction is slated to begin later this year, with completion expected in 2027.

ABOUT HITT CONTRACTING
HITT Contracting provides a wide range of commercial construction services across the nation, including complex core and shell buildings, renovations, interior fit-outs, and routine service work. No matter the project size or type, HITT delivers a premium construction experience. With 2024 projected revenues of $8.4 billion and nearly 1,900 team members across 14 office locations and jobsites nationwide, HITT is ranked among the top 20 largest general contractors in the U.S. For more than 85 years, the Washington, D.C.-area headquartered firm has been driven by a spark of curiosity to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in construction. Through innovation, sustainability, and partnership, HITT is igniting progress and tackling the industry’s greatest challenges while consistently delivering exceptional building experiences. Learn more about HITT’s general contracting capabilities at hitt.com.

ABOUT BE&K BUILDING GROUP
BE&K Building Group is an integrated construction services company serving aviation + aerospace, industrial + manufacturing, life sciences, healthcare, and additional select commercial markets for over 55 years. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including preconstruction, design-build, construction management, and program management, with offices in the Carolinas, Texas, and Illinois. To learn more, visit bekbg.com, Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

Source link: HITT

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CHARLESTON, S.C. — Three brothers have been sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and wire fraud. Two brothers, William Chan, 40, and Siu Chan, 32, both of Georgia, pleaded guilty to a wire fraud conspiracy. The third brother, Ka Ho Chan, 33, who also resides in Georgia, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud. The brothers, along with other family members, operate a string of restaurants in the Charleston area.

Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that beginning in March 2020, the Chan brothers applied for Paycheck Protect Program (PPP) and Emergency Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) funds using false representations and fraudulent documentation. 

The evidence presented for William and Siu Chan revealed that at least 22 PPP and EIDL loans were applied for and received totaling more than $2.5 million. The investigation further revealed that a handful of the loans applied for by William and Siu were legitimate applications but the funds we not used for legitimate business purposes once funded. For example, the Government uncovered evidence that the brothers used PPP and EIDL loan funds to make personal car purchases and pay personal credit card expenses.

Ka Ha Chan pleaded to a separate information charging him with wire fraud for an EIDL loan and grant he received. Moreover, in Ka Ha Chan’s plea agreement, he agreed to a restitution figure between $300,000 to $350,000 based on his receipt of fraudulent loan proceeds applied for by his brothers during their conspiracy. The evidence revealed that all the funds received by Ka Ho, though his own wire fraud scheme, and the funds he received from his brothers were not used for legitimate business purposes and were used for personal expenses, such as vehicle purchases and personal credit cards.

“These defendants exploited a program intended to help struggling businesses during a critical time. Their greed led them to defraud the government and taxpayers, diverting millions of dollars intended for legitimate economic relief,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews for the District of South Carolina. “This sentencing sends a clear message: those who attempt to profit from pandemic aid through fraud will be held accountable.”

“We will not tolerate those who exploit programs designed to support small businesses, and these defendants are now facing the consequences for their actions,” said Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia field office.  “The FBI remains committed to identifying, investigating, and holding accountable those who attempt undermine our financial institutions for personal gain.”

United States District Richard M. Gergel sentenced William Chan to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. Siu Chan was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. Ka Ho Chan was sentenced to 12 months and one day imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. 

There is no parole in the federal system. The total amount of fraudulent loans and misuse of EIDL and PPP loan funds presented to the court during sentencing exceeded $2.8 million. In advance of sentencing, efforts had been made by the brothers to pay restitution. As a result, the outstanding restitution owed in the amount of $1,268,386.50 was ordered. 

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office and Small Business Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower is prosecuting the case.

Source: United States Attorney’s Office – District of South Carolina

By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city where history lives and breathes through its architecture, culture, and local businesses. Here are some unique businesses that reflect Charleston’s storied past:

1. Charleston City Market (188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401)

• About: Established in the 1790s, the Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. It served as a hub for farmers and plantations to sell goods and remains a vibrant marketplace today.

• Why It Reflects History: The market spans four city blocks and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Vendors sell handmade sweetgrass baskets, a craft rooted in African traditions brought to Charleston by enslaved people.

2. Croghan’s Jewel Box (Formally 308 King St, Charleston, SC 29401 – Now 155 King Street)

• About: Founded in 1907, Croghan’s Jewel Box is Charleston’s oldest family-owned jewelry store. Located on King Street, it offers antique and estate jewelry alongside modern pieces.

• Why It Reflects History: Its collection includes heirloom-quality items that echo Charleston’s elegant past. The store itself is housed in a historic building, adding to its charm.

3. C.T. Lowndes & Company (Multiple Locations)

Celebrating 175 Years in the Lowcountry

• About: Established in 1850, this insurance agency has been serving Charleston for 175 years.

• Why It Reflects History: As one of the oldest businesses in the city, it has witnessed Charleston’s transformation through wars, natural disasters, and economic changes while maintaining its commitment to the community.

4. Preservation Society of Charleston Shop (147 King St, Charleston, SC 29401)

Founded in 1920: Celebrating 105 Years in Charleston, South Carolina

• About: This shop supports the Preservation Society of Charleston and offers locally crafted items such as books, art, and gifts.

• Why It Reflects History: The Preservation Society is dedicated to protecting Charleston’s historic architecture and culture, making this shop a perfect representation of the city’s commitment to preservation.

5. Jantzen Lock and Safe Co. (276 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401)

• About: Founded in 1864, this locksmith business has been operating for over 150 years.

• Why It Reflects History: Its longevity and dedication to craftsmanship showcase the enduring nature of Charleston’s small businesses and their role in supporting the community through generations.

These businesses not only offer unique products and services but also serve as living reminders of Charleston’s rich history and cultural legacy.

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Sweet and Savory: North Charleston, South Carolina recently added two new businesses to meet your appetite, Cakette Bakeshop (4546 Durant Ave North Charleston) and Palomar Fish Tacos (5117 Dorchester Rd Unit G, North Charleston, SC)

Let’s learn a little bit more about these two new businesses furthering the growth of North Charleston.

Cakette Bakeshop (4546 Durant Avenue) – This bakery dreamed up by Courtney Colangelo who collaborates with renowned bakers such as Cheryl Day is a quick-service to-go business with most of its interior dedicated to the baking kitchen. Guests can order from an indoor to-go counter and there is outdoor seating along with a simple menu of daily pastries including Colangelo’s vegan salted caramel apple galettes and peach pecan scones. The shop opened in December, 2024.

Palomar Fish Tacos (5117 Dorchester Rd Unit G) – A fresh wave of flavor brings the coast to your plate. Discover the perfect fusion of sun-kissed ingredients and authentic Baja California cuisine. Palomar Fish Tacos has a menu bursting with mount watering Baja-style Mexican dishes and is the perfect place to savor the flavors of the West Coast. Stay connected with Palomar on Instagram.

Source: Explore Charleston

Photo Credit: Cakette Bakeshop and Palomar Fish Tacos

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Automotive continues to be dominant industry for the state’s exports

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster, the South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce) and South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) today announced that the state’s 2024 export sales totaled $38 billion, the highest volume since 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The automotive industry led South Carolina’s exported goods, with sales more than double that of the next largest industry type (aircraft and aerospace components). The state is the nation’s top exporter of both completed passenger vehicles and tires, and is also number two in the export of ball/roller bearings.

South Carolina’s top five exported commodities in 2024, by percentage share, were:

1. Completed passenger vehicles
2. Aircraft and parts
3. Machinery and parts (turbojets, turbopropellers, gas turbines, ball and roller bearings, appliances for boilers and pumps)
4. Plastics
5. Rubber (tires)

Notable 2024 trade statistics include:

• 2024 export sales totaled $38 billion, the highest volume since 2019. This sales figure represents a 2% increase year-over-year and is in line with overall U.S. exports which also saw 2% growth.
• In 2024, South Carolina was the top U.S. state in export sales of completed passenger vehicles, with $10.9 billion representing 18.4% of total U.S market share.
• For the 10th consecutive year, South Carolina was the national leader in the export of tires, with sales reaching $1.8 billion, representing 36.5% of the total U.S. market share.
• South Carolina exports reached 197 countries and territories in 2024.
• South Carolina is also number two in the country in exports of ball/roller bearings with 11% of U.S. market share.
• Germany solidified its position as the number one export market for South Carolina-made products and services, accounting for nearly $5 billion ($4.98 billion) and representing a 6% increase year-over-year, followed by Canada and Mexico.
• Aircraft exports from South Carolina to South Korea and the United Kingdom registered a big increase, propelling the two countries to the top six export partners.

“South Carolina’s business community and workforce continue to produce top-quality products, and the world has taken notice,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “As the national leader in export sales of passenger vehicles and tires, we are further strengthening our reputation as one of the best states in the country to do business, which will help attract even more capital investment and opportunities for our people.”

“Our state remains committed to expanding our global reach and moving South Carolina-made products across the world, and last year’s impressive export sales total reflects this,” said Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III. “Supporting international trade is a vital part of our dedication to the success of our companies from launch to legacy, and we are pleased to see these efforts paying off for the businesses that call South Carolina home.”

“South Carolina’s advanced manufacturers, automakers, tire producers, agricultural shippers and other businesses depend on South Carolina Ports to efficiently move their goods to global markets,” said SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin. “SC Ports provides reliable, highly productive port service to ensure S.C.-based businesses can successfully run operations and grow their businesses. We are proud to support our state’s thriving economy.”

South Carolina companies looking to expand their global markets can explore S.C. Commerce’s Export Incentives or contact the international trade team.

Source: South Carolina Office of the Governor

Sometimes it is a full-time job keeping up with what is new and trendy in Charleston, South Carolina. We did a little homework on your behalf and have identified 5 new area restaurants that should be on your radar in downtown Charleston, South Carolina.

New Charleston, SC Downtown Eateries

Over the Horizon Brewing (2200 Heriot Street, Charleston, SC) – Over the Horizon Brewing is the latest addition to the Charleston brewery scene. Started by Citadel graduates James Browning, Chris Houston and Scotty Sheriff, who all have experience owning and operating restaurants including Big John’s Tavern, this new space offers a pub-focused brewery experience with a full kitchen. The brewery is also working with the DOD SkillBridge Program, which helps those in the military transition into a trade.

Joyland (145 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC) – James Beard Award-winning Chef Sean Brock makes his return to Charleston with the newest location of his Joyland concept. Joyland draws inspiration from the “fast-food restaurants of yesteryear,” combining comfort and quick service. While the menu may seem simple – biscuits, burgers, fried chicken, shakes – it’s been carefully crafted using advanced techniques and premium ingredients to recreate the charm of fast food’s golden era.

Kilwins (481 King Street, Charleston, SC) – Kilwins is renowned for its hand-crafted chocolates, creamy fudge, caramel apples, brittle and premium ice cream, all made with the finest ingredients. Kilwins has been making people happy since 1947 providing customers with warm, friendly service and a nostalgic confectionery experience.

Legami (492 King Street, Charleston, SC) – Legume is a new contemporary Italian restaurant from Washington Street Hospitality. The menu is driven by Executive Chef Andrea Congiusta, who has worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants throughout Italy and is the group chef of Washington Street Hospitality. It includes sharable dishes and housemade pastas inspired by the team’s collective upbringings in Torino and Rome, alongside a playful cocktail minuend an Italian-leaning wine program. The bi-level space, designed by owner Tyler Ropolo, is inspired by the history and beauty of his family’s hometown of Torino andd the timely charm of Charleston.

Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery (247 Congress Street, Charleston, SC) – For nearly a century, Harold’s Cabin, founded in 1929 by Sam and Mignonette Cohen Jacobs, served as a cherished gathering spot for locals, evolving through the years while honoring its roots. Inspired by the venue’s legacy, proprietor Heather Greene has envisioned a revival blending her expertise in art, culinary and hospitality. She has renamed it Lillian’s in tribute to Harold Jacobs’ wife who co-ran their mid-century Jewish deli and grocery. The space features a coffee and pastry program, a cafe for all-day dining, a curated market of local goods and a cozy upstairs bar and lounge.

Source: Explore Charleston

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OLUMBIA, S.C. – Upon receiving the indictment of North Charleston City Councilman Mike A. Brown, Governor Henry McMaster issued Executive Order 2025-09, suspending Brown from office. 

Brown is suspended until such a time as he is formally acquitted, convicted, or until a successor is elected and qualifies as provided by law, whichever event occurs first. 

For more information, view the Executive Order here.

The two other indicted North Charleston City Councilmen, Jerome Sydney Heyward and Sandino S. Moses, have since resigned from office.

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Old Towne Creek County Park February 27, 2025 Update: 

Great progress has been made at Old Towne Creek County Park. Many of the amenities are starting to take shape including renovations to an existing structure that will become the new Park Center, the building of the Learning Center that includes an outdoor classroom and restrooms and work on the nature-inspired playground. The trails that will circle the park and offer spectacular views of Old Towne Creek are also being developed. The trail system will also include a boardwalk and overlook area. In addition there has been significant underground water, sewer and electrical work done. Finally, we were honored to have partnered with the Clemson School Of Architecture’s CommunityBUILD program to build an onsite shelter. Students put together several miniature model options which were presented to the agency’s Planning & Development division. Once the design of the shelter was settled and plans were created, students worked to prefabricate materials, bring them on-site, and build the shelter together. With construction on track we anticipate opening Old Towne Creek County Park in late 2025/early 2026.

Ongoing updates are posted periodically on the park webpage, https://ccprc.com/1728/Old-Towne-Creek-County-Park, where you can also learn more about the site.

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SUMMERVILLE, S.C., Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Greystar, a global leader in the investment, development and management of real estate, today announced that Marlowe Summerville, the latest Marlowe-branded apartment community, is now pre-leasing and will be welcoming residents in April.

Marlowe by Greystar provides suburban luxury living with quality brand new finishes, spacious and current amenities and modern design with easy access to urban conveniences.     

“Marlowe Summerville is a vibrant community that offers modern living and high-end amenities in a prime location directly between two award-winning master planned communities with a broad array of recreational opportunities,” Tyler Hodgdon, Director, Development, Greystar, said. “Our team put a lot of care into creating a community that enriches the lives of our residents by pairing a fantastic amenity package with thoughtful, in-home designer touches and a site plan meticulously curated to highlight and seamlessly incorporate the area’s natural beauty and native greenery. We are excited to welcome our residents to an elevated living experience that is unrivaled in Charleston.”

“We are excited to make our first investment in the Charleston MSA with Greystar, a long-term and trusted partner,” said Ziv Cohen, Chief Investment Officer of Resmark. “Having worked together for a decade, we recognize that Greystar brings rigorous attention to design, quality and detail that results in great consumer response and community acceptance.”

Marlowe Summerville’s 278 residences are available in one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments as well as two-story townhomes and a one-of-a-kind three-bedroom penthouse. Apartments range from 560 sq. ft. up to 2,118 sq. ft. Each home features granite countertops, a modern basket weave pattern backsplash, custom dual-toned cabinets, stainless steel appliances, wood-inspired flooring throughout the living areas, a full-sized washer and dryer, Carrera-inspired tiled showers and baths, Peerless matte black fixtures and spacious closets. Select residences will have double vanities, spacious fenced-in yards—ranging from 300 to 800 sq. ft.— as well as a balcony or terrace. A number of homes have paved yards around the pool and amenity courtyard.

The community’s impressive semi-Olympic—25 meter—swimming pool with full lap lanes highlights the unique community amenities. Other features include two pickleball courts, two dog parks, dog wash, a central courtyard featuring extensive open greenspace, games and a community garden, nature trails, two outdoor grilling areas, a co-working lounge with personal studies, EV charging and an expansive fitness center with HIIT room.

The development team is preserving approximately seven acres of wetlands, which helps maintain Marlowe Summerville’s suburban feel. Marlowe Summerville is situated near I-26 which provides access to the greater Charleston area as well as employment hubs. The community is just a short drive from two master-planned communities, Carnes Crossroads and Nexton, providing plenty of dining, shopping, entertainment and outdoor recreation options.

Marlowe Summerville is now leasing for early spring move-ins. To learn about current leasing specials, or to schedule a tour, please visit www.marlowesummerville.com, drop by the leasing center at 1000 Marlowe Vista Place or call 843-376-6000.

About Greystar

Greystar is a leading, fully integrated global real estate company offering expertise in property management, investment management, development, and construction services in institutional-quality rental housing. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Greystar manages and operates nearly $315 billion of real estate in approximately 250 markets globally with offices throughout North America, Europe, South America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Greystar is the largest operator of apartments in the United States, manages over 1,000,000 units/beds globally, and has a robust institutional investment management platform comprised of over $78 billion of assets under management, including approximately $36 billion of development assets. Greystar was founded by Bob Faith in 1993 to become a provider of world-class service in the rental residential real estate business. To learn more, visit our website.

About The Resmark Companies

Founded in 1995, Resmark is a leading residential real estate investment manager that provides capital to premier homebuilders, land developers, and multifamily developers across the United States. As a fiduciary to its investors, Resmark is a best practices aggregator that provides preferred access to America’s best residential developers. The firm has participated in more than 295 investments encompassing over 90,000 single-family and multifamily residential units. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Resmark operates nationally and maintains offices in select target markets. For additional information, please visit www.resmark.com.

SOURCE Greystar

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GREENVILLE, S.C., Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Flournoy Development Group, an industry leader in innovative, best-in-class multifamily developments throughout the sunbelt, proudly announces the groundbreaking of District South, its newest luxury mixed-use community in Greenville, South Carolina. This highly anticipated project underscores the company’s ongoing dedication to expanding its premier multifamily portfolio.

Situated on a sprawling 21-acre site, District South will feature an impressive collection of 365 multifamily units, 90 for-rent townhomes, six carriage homes, and 13 retail spaces meticulously crafted to meet the lifestyle needs of today’s sophisticated residents. The vibrant community is composed of five four-story apartment buildings, 12 townhome buildings, and three carriage home buildings designed to enhance seamless connectivity within the community and surrounding area.

Strategically positioned near major interstates I-85 and I-385, District South offers convenient access to Greenville’s diverse economic hubs, including major employers such as BMW, GE, Michelin, Jacobs, and Fluor. The site is located just off the well-traveled Woodruff Road corridor, providing immediate proximity to a wide range of dining, entertainment, and retail options, including Whole Foods, Fresh Market, Publix, and Sprouts. With Downtown Greenville only a 15-minute drive away, this location is ideal for professionals balancing city and suburban lifestyles.

Residents of this distinguished community will enjoy premium amenities designed to foster wellness, relaxation, and social engagement. These amenities include a convenient grab-and-go market for everyday essentials, a stylish and inviting resident lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center, and a resort-style swimming pool with an expansive pool courtyard. Additional outdoor grilling stations and entertainment areas provide ideal spaces for gathering with friends and neighbors, while pet owners will appreciate the dedicated dog park and an indoor pet spa. The community also features thoughtfully planned sidewalks and vehicular connectivity, which provide easy access and convenient options for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.

Each apartment home will feature spacious one- and two-bedroom layouts with upscale finishes, including quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and full-size washers and dryers, offering both style and functionality for future residents.

“We are thrilled to bring another meticulously designed, high-quality community to the Greenville market,” said Ryan Foster, Senior Vice President of Flournoy Development Group. “With a strong track record in Greenville with successful developments like District West and District Midtown, this project further reflects our commitment to delivering best-in-class communities that combine modern elegance, careful and thorough attention to detail, and a distinct sense of community.”

The project team includes architect Dynamik Design, general contractor McShane Construction, and local civil engineering firm Gray Engineering. The community will be expertly managed by Flournoy Properties Group.

About Flournoy Development Group
Founded in 1967, Flournoy Development Group is a multifamily residential real estate firm headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, focused on developing and managing premier multifamily, active adult, and build-to-rent communities in strategic locations throughout the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southwest. Consisting of Flournoy Development Group (FDG) and Flournoy Properties Group (FPG), the firm has developed and managed over 40,000 residential units throughout the United States. Flournoy is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kajima USA. To learn more about Flournoy, visit www.flournoycompanies.com.

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