Boeing to layoff 17,000 workers worldwide (10% of workforce) – 220 impacted in South Carolina

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By Jessica Holdman

About 220 South Carolina Boeing workers will be out of work after the new year.

The financially struggling aerospace company announced the layoffs, expected to begin Jan. 17.

All but eight of the employees losing their jobs work in North Charleston, where the 787 Dreamliner is assembled. Also being let go is one person each working from Beaufort, Columbia, and Moncks Corner, as well as five employees in Charleston, according to a federally required notice filed with the state employment agency.

“The Boeing Company has made the difficult decision to reduce its workforce,” Elizabeth French, part of Boeing’s exit management team, said in the letter filed Nov. 18 with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce.

Boeing reported a financial loss of more than $8 billion so far this year, with $6 billion of that coming between July and September. In response, CEO Kelly Ortberg announced in October the company would cut 10% of its workforce, or about 17,000 employees nationwide.

About 2,200 Boeing employees in Washington state and Oregon also received notices this week that they would be laid of Dec. 20, five days before Christmas.

The layoffs follow a seven-week strike by 33,000 unionized machinists on the West Coast — mostly in Washington but also Oregon and California — as the company and union negotiated a new contract.

Those union members ratified the new deal the first week of November. Ortberg has said the cuts were caused by overstaffing, not the work stoppage.

The strike did not include non-unionized workers in South Carolina.

The Palmetto State job cuts amount to 2.8% of Boeing’s reported 7,864 employees statewide.

The layoffs include business and training staff, engineers, information technology workers, analysts, quality control, and supply chain staff, according to the notice.

Eligible employees will receive severance pay and subsidized health care benefits for up to three months after leaving the company, according to a statement from the company.

Meanwhile, the state’s unemployment rate rose again for the eighth straight month to 4.7% in October, according to the latest numbers from the state Department of Employment and Workforce. The national rate stayed steady at 4.1%.

Source link: South Carolina Daily Gazette

Johns Island’s Blu Oyster Sushi and Seafood has closed its doors just shy of their 3rd anniversary

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On the cusp of the 3rd anniversary for Blu Oyster Sushi and Seafood on Johns Island, the team has announced the will be closing operations. The restaurant officially closed on November 18, 2024.

In a powerful and personal message to the customers and community, The Blu Oyster Team announced:

As we approach our 3rd Anniversary, we have decided to make the very tough decision to close our doors. We only get one chance at this short life, and right now, prioritizing health and family has become our focus. 
We first would like to thank our amazing and loyal staff, some who have been with us since the very beginning. Second, we would like to thank our local vendors, distributors, farmers and fishermen for providing the freshest and quality items for us to pass to our guests. 
Third, to our customers near and far, thank you for giving us a reason to create delicious food and drinks, and allowing us to serve you! Finally, we are very proud of these past few years on Johns Island. We have poured our hearts and souls into Blu Oyster, and we stand behind all the hard work that was put into these four walls. 

Please come in and join us this week, our final week of service. We will be open from 4pm-9pm daily until Monday, November 18. We will have a limited menu, but still offering our 1/2 price sushi and Happy Hour specials all week. We will be working with a limited staff, so please be kind and patient! Monday, November 18th will be our last service. 

So much gratitude to all, and cheers to the next chapter!

The Blu Oyster Team 💙

Our sincerest thoughts go out to the entire Blu Oyster family and best wishes for journeys ahead.

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From Halls Chophouse Rockstar to Hurricane Helene Hero: Meet Stefan Stanton, Owner and Operator of Surf N Turf Landscaping in Charleston, South Carolina

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By Mark A. Leon

It takes an army to move a mountain, but it only takes one individual to inspire a passion. Stefan Stanton, owner of Surf N Turf Landscaping has gone through a remarkable transformation from high end exclusive customer service liaison at one of the finest steakhouses in the nation to beautifying Charleston, one square foot at a time.

It takes a special type of person to take on a whole new purpose full of meaning, artistry and visionary insight.

Yet above all of this, Stefan was one of the selfless members of the Charleston community to go to Western Carolina and help those impacted from the devastation of Hurricane Helene.

We took a few minutes to learn more about Stefan and his incredible journey to help others.

Stefan Stanton – Owner and Operator of Surf N Turf Landscaping Q&A

CD: Following passion over wealth is a challenging decision for many and one often to pursued.  You took that step leaving Halls Chophouse as General Manager after 10 years to building a business focused on sustaining the beautiful landscapes of the Lowcountry.  What were the catalysts and drivers behind this decision?

SS:  I thoroughly enjoyed my time as General Manager of Halls Chophouse and it will always hold a special place in my heart.  The Hall family are still dear friends of mine and I will always value that relationship and the relationships made with the incredible guests I have met throughout the years.  The experiences and my personal development that I obtained from Halls will stay with me forever and I will apply the standards and hospitality I developed in that restaurant in any career or whatever path I may pursue.  That being said the decision to take a completely different path from the industry I have spent a majority of my life in, did not come easy.   I came to realize that the work to life ratio was off and my passion of the industry was fading.   Running the top restaurant in the nation is very time consuming and to put it simple, life is short so you better enjoy it.    

CD: As the architect of your business, you are the artist and your clients’ homes are your canvas.  How much of your work is client vision and how much is your inspiration and input?  

SS: Throughout my life I have always enjoyed landscaping and it was my way to unwind after a long week in the restaurant business.  I inherited my passion for gardening from my Mother and was lucky enough to get her green thumb.  My neighbor was the one who actually suggested that I should pursue landscaping as a full time career since he has always seen me working in my garden and no matter how hot or dirty I was, I was always smiling.  I decided to take the big leap so I retired the suit and bought a 1989 Ford F150 and a wheelbarrow.  The incredible family over at All Seasons Mulch on Johns Island were a huge support for my development in the industry and the growth of my business.  It would have been hard to do without them.  That was the start of Surf N Turf Landscaping and 3 and half years later, Im still smiling! 

CD: What do you want your clients to walk away with after you complete a landscaping job?

SS: When meeting a client for the first time, I like to get to know them and get a good feel for their expectations and what vision they may have for their property.  Everyone has different styes and tastes and some like to bring some designs or plants from wherever they have moved from so its my job to adapt to their likes then suggest plants or designs that will work in their area.  A majority of our business is SOD installation, so with that the design is already there we just need to figure out what grass will do the best in their location.

CD: What skills and stylistic approaches did you learn from your time as GM of one of the top food & hospitality establishments in Charleston that you have carried over with you owning Surf N Turf Landscaping?

SS: My favorite part of my job is when we get to reveal the completed project and get to see the look of excitement on the homeowners face.  A majority of our work will be the first thing the homeowner sees when they pull into their property, so its incredibly important exceed their expectations and have a finished canvas that they will be proud of for years to come.  It’s an amazing feeling when you can transform someone’s home and see the look of pride in their face.

CD: A big challenge of being a small business owner is to harness and nurture your relationships.  You are very well respected by those that come into your life with much of your work coming from referrals.  What are your personal convictions and approach that go into developing new relationships?

SS: Developing a new relationship with new clients is incredibly important and a huge part of what we do.  I bring my experience in the restaurant industry to provide hospitality in an industry that you generally don’t find that.  I would be unable to turn that off and even if I could that is not a part of my personality.  I take pride in communicating with the homeowners on what they can expect once the work starts and I like to make myself available to answer any questions they may have during or after.  Most importantly is to always be honest with your clients.  I don’t want to say its easy to create great relationships with your clients, but it’s a lot easier when you love what you do.  The homeowners can tell when you are passionate at what you do and the work shows it.

I like to bring the same level of hospitality and customer service we brought to so many guests throughout the years at Halls.   It is a huge contrast in styles of industries, but I feel there is no need to change my style of customer service and I believe my business benefits from it.  I want customers to feel confident in trusting us to transform their property and I want our passion to be obvious.

CD: So many of us have given time, donations, and even those seeking ways they can help to victims of Hurricane Helene.  You just decided to fill your truck and head West?  Why did you feel the need to help? 

SS: I was watching the news as many of you were and I was heartbroken by the devastation that the people of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida had just gone through.   I was tired of hearing about it and I couldn’t not do anything anymore.  There had to be something I could do.  So through the years, I was blessed to have obtained a dump truck as part of my fleet.  We didn’t have any work that required a dump truck for 2 days, so that’s when it hit me! I can do something!  I saw that Millers All Day was doing runs up to Asheville to drop off supplies, but they were using their smaller food truck and were limited on space.  So I reached out to Nate, at Millers All Day and teamed up with them and Halls Chophouse to offer my dump truck to fill it with supplies.   With their help we were able to fill my truck to the max with donations.  The next day I drove my dump truck with a max speed of 60MPH to Asheville to drop off some much needed supplies.  It was amazing to see all the small business owners bringing up materials.  Where we dropped off supplies, there was another Landscaper, a tree trimmer and a general contractor all with trailers loaded with supplies.  It was incredible to see people from all over the East coast helping out.  

CD: Since your return, how have your feelings changed witnesses the true devastation of those lands?

SS: I have an appreciation for how a community can pull together in a time of need.  The devastation up there is terrible, but the ray of sunshine coming through in the form of volunteers was incredible and humbling.

CD: In a sentence or two, what has living in Charleston meant to you?

SS: Through my years of living in Charleston, I have come to love the beauty of our natural landscapes from the beautiful beaches to the massive live oaks on Johns Island.  Charleston is incredibly visually stimulating and to top it off, there are some of the best restaurants in America here.  Truly a beautiful place and I’m proud to call it home.

If you want to learn more about Stefan or inquire about his services, you can contact him at his work line: 843-300-9805.

HabitNu Expands Diabetes Prevention Program Network in Charleston, SC, as Part of Multi-Year CDC Agreement

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CHARLESTON, S.C., Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — HabitNu, a leader in preventive health, has expanded its Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) network in Charleston, SC, as part of a $12.5 million, five-year cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Awarded in June 2023, this agreement supports HabitNu’s mission to create a nationwide, inclusive diabetes prevention network, bridging healthcare providers, community organizations, and Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) services to advance health equity.

Recognized by the CDC to Prevent or Delay Type 2 Diabetes
Recognized by the CDC to Prevent or Delay Type 2 Diabetes

HabitNu’s expansion in Charleston marks a major milestone toward the company’s goal of building a connected ecosystem for individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes. Since the start of the above initiative, HabitNu has launched collaborative networks in nine states and plans to reach 20 by the end of the award period. Charleston’s DPP network includes local providers such as Healthy Plate Living, the Medical University of South Carolina, Summerville YMCA, Phit4Lyfe Integrative Health, Círculos de Bienestar, Wellness Five, and Lowcountry Street Grocery, with additional partnerships on the horizon.

As a CDC-recognized Umbrella Hub, HabitNu equips DPP providers with essential resources, including best practice guidance for participant recruitment, program delivery, billing, and a comprehensive suite of digital tools. These tools encompass referral management, coach support, participant engagement, data reporting, and a billing module that streamlines claims for Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial health plans.

“We’re thrilled to work with Charleston’s DPP providers to combat type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Sindhu Rajan, CEO of HabitNu. “Our Umbrella Hub empowers local providers to deliver high-quality, evidence-based diabetes prevention services and supports sustainable, long-term outcomes for the community.”

“We are excited to partner with HabitNu in this innovative initiative,” said Margaret Peck, founder of Healthy Plate Living. “Being part of the HabitNu Umbrella Hub enables us to serve our community better, expand our reach, and improve patient outcomes. HabitNu’s team approach helps us build a sustainable network that can continue providing essential diabetes prevention services.”

“Partnering with HabitNu has been transformative for our diabetes prevention program and our mission to build healthier, stronger communities,” said Stacy Varvel, Executive Director of the Summerville YMCA. “While we’ve provided the DPP for several years, the HabitNu platform has enabled us to expand our reach, simplify our processes, and stay connected with participants in ways we’ve never imagined. With the support of HabitNu’s dedicated team, we can continue to deliver high-quality, consistent care that motivates participants and strengthens their commitment to long-term health. Together, we are creating a more resilient, healthier community, one individual at a time.”

About HabitNu
HabitNu delivers scalable, evidence-based programs to prevent and manage chronic conditions like prediabetes and diabetes. HabitNu’s platform enables flexible DPP delivery (online, in-person, or through distance learning) and integrates SDOH services, supporting referrals to connect participants with essential resources. As a CDC-recognized Umbrella Hub, HabitNu partners with healthcare systems, employers, payers, and community-based organizations to improve health outcomes and advance health equity.

Media Contact:
Vernon Mathias
(312) 566-7871
386336@email4pr.com

SOURCE HabitNu

The Shop Around the Corner: 5 Of the Most Enchanting Florists in Charleston County

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By Mark A. Leon

Florals have such a positive impact on our health and wellbeing. They provide fragrance, color, calmness and beauty. Used for special occasions, symbols of love and respect or just a way to bring a smile. We have a deep appreciation for our Charleston County florists.

Here are 5 exception local businesses that brighten our daily lives:

  1. Tiger Lily Florist
    • 2 Area Locations: 131 Spring St, Charleston, SC 29403 and 1614 Camp Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
    • Services: Delivery, curbside pickup, same-day delivery.
    • Official Website
    • Instagram
  2. The Flower Cottage
    • Location: 31 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC 29403
    • Services: Delivery, in-store pickup, same-day delivery.
    • Official Website
    • Instagram
  3. The Greenery Florist
    • Location: 240 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401
    • Services: Delivery, curbside pickup, same-day delivery.
    • Official Website
    • Instagram
  4. La Belle Fleur
    • Location: 734 Sinlea Ave, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
    • Services: Delivery, curbside pickup, same-day delivery.
    • Official Website
    • Instagram
  5. Roadside Blooms
    • Location: 4491 Durant Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
    • Known for unique arrangements and exceptional customer service.
    • Official Website
    • Instagram

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The Greenery Florist

The Flower Cottage

Javalicious: 5 Standout Coffee Shops in North Charleston, South Carolina

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By Mark A. Leon

A great coffee shop goes far deeper than just the caffeinated libations that get us through the day. A neighborhood coffee shop is about community, warmth, hospitality, energy, a sense of belonging and a nurturing place to be open creatively whether it be the arts or meaningful conversation.

Here are 5 coffee shops in North Charleston that embody all the wonderful qualities of an inviting culture, great coffee and treats to warm the soul:

  • Orange Spot Coffee: Known for its cozy atmosphere and great coffee, this shop serves breakfast and lunch options. Located at 1011 E Montague Ave, this popular spot is right in the heart of amazing Park Circle neighborhood. Follow them on Instagram

  • Odd Duck Market: This highly-rated spot combines coffee with a breakfast and lunch menu along with a grocer and artisan marketplace. Located at 1082 E Montague Ave in Park Circle, Odd Duck has indoor and outdoor seating, pet friendly and vegan options. Follow on Instagram

  • The Coffee House: Located at 3620 Ashley Phosphate Rd Ste 2, North Charleston, SC 29420 is known for incredible hospitality, mouth-watering made to order breakfast sandwiches, and cozy super friendly atmosphere.

  • Prophet Coffee: Praised for its cozy vibe and vegan options, you will find this gem at 4411 Spruill Avenue. Savanna & Bryson Purcell started this business in March of 2023. After a major career shift, they decided to try their luck at a mobile coffee van. It grew pretty fast, and they haven’t looked back since. Good things come to those who grind. Follow on Instagram

  • Lodi Coffee: Drive-Thru Specialty Coffee that offers Matcha, Frapps & Bites 🥐 on the go
    and has been Voted Top 20 Coffee Shops in North America is a fan favorite in North Charleston. Located at 2210 Ashley Phosphate Rd, North Charleston, SC 29406, this is a perfect spot to grab coffee and treats right as you head to Highway 26. Follow on Instagram

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Odd Duck Market

Savanna & Bryson Purcell – Owners Prophet Coffee

6 Great Ethnic Restaurants in North Charleston, South Carolina that will leave you wanting more

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North Charleston is a melting pot of diversity and a spectrum of cultural and ethnic diversity. Here are 6 great ethnic restaurants that will satisfy your hunger in North Charleston, South Carolina

  • Istanbul Shish Kabob (4940 Centre Pointe Dr suite c, North Charleston, SC 29418): A casual Middle Eastern spot offering authentic dishes like kebabs and salads. It provides a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating. Follow on Instagram

  • Baba Kabob Market and Deli (4952 Centre Pointe Dr suite 110, North Charleston, SC 29418): This Middle Eastern cafe combines grocery items with prepared foods like falafel and shawarma. Follow on Instagram

  • Caribbean Delight (3309 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405): Known for its Jamaican cuisine, this restaurant features a tropical vibe with dishes like meat curries and fish stews.

  • Dashi (1262 Remount Rd, North Charleston, SC 29406): A trendy spot serving Mexican dishes with a fusion twist. We had to add that their brunch breakfast burrito is heavenly. Follow on Instagram

  • Platia Greek Goodness (5060 Dorchester Rd suite 230, North Charleston, SC): This Greek restaurant offers a range of Mediterranean dishes. Follow on Instagram

Related: 6 Great Latin American Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina

Related: My 3 Sons Soul Food – North Charleston, South Carolina

Caribbean Delight

Dashi

Platia Greek

Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse

Charleston’s Hotel Bennett to Transform to a Holiday Winter Wonderland

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Tis the season at Hotel Bennett, where Charleston’s luxury hotel transforms into an enchanting destination filled with love, sweetness, and cherished memories. The holidays start early with a calendar full of festive activities the whole family can enjoy.

On November 23, the hotel unveils its iconic life-size gingerbread house by renowned French pastry chef Rémy Fünfrock and Chef Renee Fonseca, and Camellias’ signature Tea with Santalaunches on November 29 featuring seasonal delights.

On December 5, the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place on Gabrielle Plaza.  

Get crafty! On December 10, local wreath artist Lucie Kulze leads a holiday wreathmaking workshop. On December 14, join local artisan Amy Brekke as she leads an ornament painting workshop. On December 15, local artisan Andrea Davis of Motherland Essentials leads a festive candle-making class.

Feel the holiday spirit with special performances by The Charleston Caroling Company on December 12 and Ashley Hall’s elementary school choirs on December 19. 

Warm hearts on December 15, Charleston Animal Society is hosting a special Deck the Paws Dog Adoption Event on Gabrielle Plaza. 

Get festive and fun at Fiat Lux’s Ugly Christmas Sweater Party on December 18, when the best (or worst!) holiday sweater wins prizes, a live DJ spins holiday beats, and a joyful celebration takes place under the stars. 

On December 23, indulge in a buffet of sweet and savory breakfast favorites with Breakfast with Santa and finish the evening with carols, classic tales, and a mug of hot cocoa on The Night Before Christmas Eve.

The fun continues with dinner at Gabrielle. Offered on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, guests will have an extraordinary culinary experience featuring an exclusive Christmas Dinner prix fixe menu, meticulously curated for the most magical time of the year.

The festive season wraps up on New Year’s Eve with a multi-course prix fixe dinner at Gabrielle.

And for out-of-town guests, Hotel Bennett offers a Home Sweet Hotel Bennett package, bringing the magic to each room with a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights and festive ornaments. And to make their stay even sweeter, enjoy complimentary valet parking and a special Hotel Bennett keepsake ornament to commemorate the holiday getaway.

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Former Summerville, South Carolina Mayor Wiley Johnson has passed away

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It is with sadness that we report that Former Summerville, South Carolina Mayor Wiley Johnson has passed away.

The Town of Summerville announced on their Instagram:

Former Mayor Wiley Johnson, who served the Town of Summerville from 2016 to 2019, passed away on November 14. 

At last night’s council meeting, Mayor Touchberry and the Town Council observed a moment of silence in his honor. 

In tribute to his contributions to the community, flags at all town buildings will be flown at half-staff until the conclusion of Mayor Johnson’s funeral.

Our thoughts, prayers and love go out to the community of Summerville and the family of Wiley Johnson.

Introducing Direct Flights to Bermuda from Charleston, SC starting April, 2025

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Charleston International Airport is thrilled to welcome Bermuda Air as our newest airline, launching nonstop flights from CHS to Bermuda (BDA) starting April 2025! This is the second international route this year for CHS.

This new route is your passport to pink sands, turquoise waves, and endless adventure.

Other direct flights to Bermuda being introduced are from Raleigh-Durham, NC (RDU) and Hartford, CT (BDL)

Click HERE to book your next trip to Bermuda Today!

Related: Direct flights to Los Angeles (LAX) on Breeze

Related: United Adding New Flights from CHS to Houston, TX

Related: Direct flights service from CHS to Cleveland, OH

Related: Nonstop flights from Charleston, SC to Toronto, CA