Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston.
As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is.
Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.
COLUMBIA, S.C. –Smithey Ironware Company (Smithey), a cookware designer and manufacturer, today announced the expansion of its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $3.1 million investment will create 16 new jobs.
Founded in Charleston in 2015, Smithey designs, markets, and manufactures premium cast iron and carbon steel cookware. The company offers a full range of industry-leading, American-made skillets, roasters, Dutch ovens and more.
Smithey recently expanded into a new headquarters, located at 1061 Everglades Ave. in North Charleston, which houses administration teams and includes a public showroom. The company also opened a new distribution warehouse, located at 2060 North Hobson Ave. in North Charleston, to support expanded fulfillment operations and higher production volumes. The new distribution facility will be home to Smithey’s expanded custom engraving operations, allowing customers to add personalized messages to their cast iron and carbon steel cookware.
Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Smithey team should visit the company’s careers page.
QUOTES
“Smithey is excited to expand our operations and elevate our brand presence via our new public showroom in Charleston County as we continue to build the next great American cookware brand.” -Smithey Ironware Company Founder and President Isaac Morton
“With our state’s ideal location and talented workforce, companies like Smithey Ironware Company are finding lasting success. We are grateful for the company’s continued investment in Charleston County and congratulate Smithey on this latest milestone.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to the Smithey Ironware Company team on this expansion which will help meet growing demand for its premium products. We are proud to support Smithey as it strengthens its commitment to Charleston County and South Carolina.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“As a homegrown company in Charleston County, Smithey’s growth is shaping our community into a manufacturing powerhouse. We look forward to seeing Smithey continue to thrive and mold our region into a vibrant economic hub.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III
FIVE FAST FACTS
Smithey Ironware Company (Smithey) is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
The company’s $3.1 million investment will create 16 new jobs.
Smithey is a cookware designer and manufacturer.
The company’s new, expanded facilities are located at 1061 Everglades Ave. and 2060 North Hobson Ave. in North Charleston, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Smithey team should visit the company’s careers page.
How often have you had a need for legal counseling or advice and felt you just couldn’t afford it? This is where Charleston Legal Access steps in. As the first and only nonprofit in the state of South Carolina to offer fee based services based on your income level, all residents now have access to legal assistance.
We are so proud to share this wonderful resource and help provide more insight on a compassionate local nonprofit.
Services
Advice and counsel sessions over the phone for free
1-2 hours of in-depth, in-person consultations for a flat fee
Full legal representation on a sliding scale
Areas of focus: Elder, Family, Housing, Property and Victims’ Rights
Our sliding scale model provides legal assistance at low, accessible rates of $50 – $100 per hour which is determined by income and family size. Learn more about qualifying for our legal services.
About Charleston Legal Access
As a non-profit law firm founded in 2016, our mission is to expand access to justice in South Carolina by providing high-quality legal representation to moderate- to low-income individuals and families.
Attorney access, even very limited representation, changes outcomes for families. It can often preserve homes, income streams, and other assets that maintain financial stability and well-being in communities. However, when faced with a legal emergency, many individuals who do not qualify for free legal representation take the risk of going without an attorney, only to find themselves in worse financial and legal trouble and at risk of losing everything.
Charleston Legal Access’ vision is a South Carolina with access to high-quality legal representation for everyone contributing to a more fair and equitable justice system.
How to Contact
Location: 1816 Success Street, Building A, Unit 102, North Charleston, SC 29405
Want to get more involved? Click HERE to learn how.
Click HERE to donate. Donations will go to further services and provide more state coverage.
A few key FAQS
You are eligible for Charleston Legal Access’ services if your income is between: $18,825 – $60,240 for an individual / $25,550 – $81,760 for a family of two / $32,275 – $103,280 for a family of three / $39,000 – $124,800 for a family of four.
Cost: We charge rates between $50 and $100 per hour, and initial retainer fees are between $500 and $1000 per case. Contact us for a free quote based on your verified gross annual income.
There is no charge for the screening and consultation calls, and you do not have to make a decision about hiring us the day you come in for an in-person consultation.
Every influential movement needs a home, and we proudly establish ours in a place dedicated to patriotism. It’s not just any place; it’s one of the world’s most renowned travel destinations.
We are building a $75 million, 50,000 square-foot conference center and immersive guest experience taking root at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, SC. It’s not merely a fun experience; it’s an awe-inspiring transformation that transcends the very essence of the Medal of Honor.
But this is more than just a building; it’s part of an effort to revitalize America through a nationwide leadership development program based on Medal of Honor values. We aim to be the go-to source for values-based leadership education and a driving force behind a national conversation on this topic.
This ambitious project is led by a dedicated team of veterans and citizens who are passionate about paving the way for future leaders. They believe in preserving the stories of our country’s greatest heroes and passing on their legacy.
Meet Your Moment Experience
The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership will be a curated visitor experience designed with immersive, multimedia exhibits to emphasize what unites us as Americans; to promote Medal of Honor values; to provide context to understand the recipient’s stories; and to inspire visitors to positively shape their futures.
With artifacts, galleries, immersive demonstrations, and experiential exhibits, guests will embark on an exhilarating journey that compels them to become leaders in their own lives by:
Hearing the inspiring stories of regular people facing extraordinary moments and understanding why their values made a difference.
Gaining a deeper understanding of citizenship, overcoming challenges, and making crucial decisions when it matters most. Exploring ethical decision-making and applying Medal of Honor values in various aspects of life.
Honoring Medal of Honor heroes who displayed extraordinary valor in military action, offering insights into your own leadership values
This conference center will be a portal for character development, leadership symposiums, certification programs, retreats, and immersive multimedia exhibits.
Location
Located in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, adjacent to the historic Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum and other military attractions, the Charleston Harbor’s serene waterfront with marsh grass, dolphins. and manatees—along with the famous Ravenel Bridge—will serve as the backdrop of the new National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership.
The experience center embedded in the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership facility is designed to help citizens understand how to incorporate the Medal of Honor values in their everyday lives, providing curated exhibit space and interactive guest experiences.
Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina was designated the national site of the Congressional Medal of Honor Museum enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in the 106th Congress session on September 24, 1999. This museum is the only Medal of Honor museum recognized by the United States Congress and is managed by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
Autumn in the Lowcountry is a delightful blend of cooler temperatures, family gatherings, romantic moments, and vibrant sunshine. This season also brings an array of festivals and holidays that celebrate the region’s rich culture. To help you embrace the spirit of fall in Charleston, here’s a curated bucket list to guide your seasonal adventures.
If you attended the Inaugural Charleston Food + Wine Festival last month, you might have encountered Dee M. Robinson and sampled her smooth and delightful Good Trouble Kentucky Bourbon. This beautiful Kentucky bourbon boasts a deep amber color, with notes of spice, dried fruit, maple fudge, and light leather on the nose. The palate reveals flavors of dried cherry, hazelnut, and vanilla, leading to a comforting finish with hints of spiced nuts and chocolate mint5.
What sets this bourbon apart is the passionate and committed woman behind the brand, Dee M. Robinson. During a brief conversation, we gained insight into Dee’s journey in creating and bringing this exceptional product to market.
Despite her impressive academic and professional background, Dee M. Robinson exudes a humble and warm demeanor. However, beneath her approachable exterior lies a fierce determination that drives her advocacy work and pride in her heritage.
Dee M. Robinson’s creation stands as a testament to her dedication and vision, offering bourbon enthusiasts a product that is both rich in flavor and steeped in a compelling narrative.
We are so grateful to learn more about Dee and Good Trouble.
Q&A with Dee M. Robinson – Founder and CEO, GT Spirits Company Good Trouble Bourbon
Given your esteemed background including an advanced education with shades of Ivy at U of Penn, Northwestern and Dartmouth, serving on numerous boards, accolades including Top 100 under 50 Executive Leaders and Black MBA Magazine Entrepreneur of the Year and now owner of a nationally recognized Bourbon, how would you define your legacy today?
Dee: I would define my legacy as one of impact, resilience, and advocacy. Whether through Robinson Hill or Good Trouble Bourbon, I’ve always aimed to drive innovation while giving voice to underserved communities. My legacy, I hope, will be marked by a blend of entrepreneurial success and social responsibility. More than the accolades or achievements, it’s about opening doors for the next generation of leaders, creators, and disruptors.
In the food and beverage product industry, a common rule of thumb is making a profit by year five and building toward expansion, deeper partnerships and growth. Now embarking on year seven of Good Trouble, what is the strategy for the next five years?
Dee: The next five years for Good Trouble are focused on strategic partnerships, scaling, and embedding even deeper into the fabric of culture. We’re looking at expanding distribution channels and building on our current momentum to take the brand to more retailers and markets. We will diversity our offering’s, launch limited edition releases and continue to drive social impact through our message. Growth will come from nurturing both the brand’s economic and social purpose, ensuring we stay true to our roots while growing.
Over your many years in operations and management, what were some the key influences / influencers that helped shape the recipe for Good Trouble Bourbon?
Dee: Good Trouble’s recipe is shaped by a mix of tradition and innovation. My years in operations and management taught me the importance of quality and consistency. The influences range from conversations with master distillers to studying the market’s evolving tastes. But the real heart of Good Trouble is my mother who said the only kind of trouble my twin brother and I could get in was good trouble because my sister got in all of the rest. During the late 60’s, she was teaching us how to show up when the rest of the world might not embrace us. Additionally, John Lewis’ legacy—the courage to disrupt with purpose. That inspired us to create something bold yet nuanced, just like the spirit of social justice. We wanted to craft a bourbon that stood out not just in taste, but in meaning.
You are a strong ambassador for social justice and as outlined in your website bio, one of your goals of Good Trouble is “instigating brave conversations”. Can you tell us a little bit more about how you are using your brand to drive deeper awareness of the importance of the social justice conversation and action.
Dee: Good Trouble Bourbon is more than a drink; it’s a platform for instigating brave conversations. Through partnerships, events, and social campaigns, we’re creating spaces where people can discuss equity, justice, and systemic change over a glass of bourbon. We engage in causes and movements that push for real progress—whether supporting minority- and women-owned businesses, opening doors in nontraditional spaces, or partnering with organizations driving policy change. It’s about encouraging people to take that first sip and then lean into the difficult but necessary conversations that move the needle toward positive social change.
You are a self-proclaimed “troublemaker” and in today’s narrative, some would call a disrupter. What are some of the key moments in your life that helped shape your personality today?
Dee: There have been many moments that shaped me, but a few stand out. First, my decision to found Robinson Hill was a leap of faith, but it taught me resilience. Then, entering the boardrooms of major corporations—where being a woman of color was still rare—pushed me to become an advocate for diversity. And of course, launching Good Trouble was another defining moment; it was about turning my passion for entrepreneurship into a vehicle for social change. Each of these experiences taught me to be fearless in my pursuits, unapologetic in my beliefs, and always willing to make good trouble.
Let’s talk about the tasting notes and the experience for a moment. Inviting spirited conversations sparked by aromas of spice, dried fruit, maple fudge and light leather and tastes of vibrant and complex notes of dried cherry, hazelnut and vanilla sound enchanting. Tell us about one of your most spirited conversations over a glass of Good Trouble and great company?
Dee: One of the most memorable conversations happened in the hotel the day after bottling our first Good Trouble run. I was with a team member, and we noticed two men at the hotel bar drinking bourbon, we struck up a conversation and during that conversation there was interesting conversation; it was clear that one man was closed minded and asked me about my reference to call myself African American and he said I don’t call myself European American, so why. But I didn’t get angry, but saw it as an opportunity to teach, it was a magical moment because he actually softened and understood my explanation and we moved on and continued to have a good conversation over bourbon. The conversation took on the same complex notes as the bourbon—layered with history, spice, and a little sweetness as we explored what it means to challenge societal norms. The bourbon helped break down barriers, allowing everyone to express their ideas freely and authentically. That’s the magic of Good Trouble—it opens up the space for the boldest of dialogues.
Aside from straight and on the rocks, what are some of your most recommended cocktail recipes where Good Trouble would be the perfect base?
Dee: While Good Trouble is beautiful on its own, it also shines in cocktails. One of my favorites is the Good Trouble’s Disagree to Agree, a twist on the classic mint julep, adding mint and a touch of cognac to complement the bourbon’s vanilla and cherry notes.
Finally, what are some of the little and big things we can do, other than drinking this fine Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey to make the world a better place?
Dee: Let’s all be ‘troublemakers’ and create spaces where diverse voices thrive and instigate conversations that challenge the status quo.
Good Trouble Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is crafted using high-quality, locally grown Kentucky corn, winter rye, and malted barley. Distilled, aged, and bottled in the heart of Kentucky, this small-batch bourbon is produced at DSP-KY-10, a historic distillery dating back to 1885.
The inaugural limited edition, bottled at 92 proof, has already garnered several accolades, including a Silver Medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Double Gold at the SIP Awards International Spirits Competition 2023.
Hamby Catering, one of the most respected catering companies in Charleston for 40 years serving the community for weddings, showers, festivals, special events, Thanksgiving and more has a market. Located at 925 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407, The Hamby Market offers a beautifully curated selection of wines, candles, mixers and of course their fresh made salads, prepared meals, pastries, cakes, coffees, beverages and sandwiches.
Here is everything you need to know:
Hours: Open daily from 9AM-5PM Monday through Friday & 9AM-3PM on Saturdays.
The Market menu is specifically designed to answer the call for Hamby Favorites & light bites, and all the way to pre-made family dinners. Need help placing your order? Call at 843.725.4035 to place an order.
Perfect for large group or corporate gatherings, the bulk orders check all the Hamby flavor boxes, and are outfitted with utensils, napkins and disposable trays. Depending on your order size, delivery is available or you can pick up The Market!
Cannon Street and Spring Street situated in the Elliotborough and Cannonborough neighborhoods of the Charleston, South Carolina downtown peninsula is undeniably one of the fastest and most emerging urban communities.
With a diverse offering of dining, shopping, hair care, horticulture, coffee, piercings, jewelry and wellness, Cannon and Spring is becoming a Mecca, yet still unknown to many. We are about to change that.
One of the most immediate cultural observations is the inviting array of foot traffic which is made up of a mix of tourists (Stay Duvet Vacation Rentals), students and residents. This inviting mix coupled with outdoor dining at fabulous places like Pink Cactus, Xiao bao biscuit, Anthony’s insanely delicious Philly inspired sandwiches from The Pass, New York’s beloved bagel sandwiches from Holey City Bagels, unique shopping experiences (The Paper Canopy, The Tiny Tassel, The Mess Hall Hat Shop), boozy ice cream from Buzzed Bull Creamery, and two of the most incredible coffee shop experiences with babas on cannon and Bad Bunnies Coffee Shop make these two streets the next great Charleston evolution. What a buzz in the air with so much energy and life on these streets.
Feeling lucky at The Mess Hall
We must also include a beautiful recognization to Tiger Lily and the newly opened Rooted in Charleston for bringing natural beauty to our community every day with their passionate love of plants and flowers.
If that wasn’t enough, here are 5 incredible reasons to spend as much time as you can on Cannon Street and Spring Street
The Cannonborough and Elliotborough Collective of small business owners. This community is so strong and committed to awareness, growth and success that they have formed a collective to work toward bettering the neighborhood, enhancing awareness and working toward success for all small business owners. Not only do they bring their smiling faces every day, but every Second Thursday many stores offer extended hours from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM for Second Thursdays.
Veggie Bin (96 Spring Street, Charleston, SC) – This wonderful local co-op offers fresh local sourced products to all members of the community. Their commitment to fresh, organic and locally based products is a testament to their dedication to Charleston and preservation of health and wellness.
Sôlt Wellness: Holistic Wellness Spa in Charleston, South Carolina offers a complete natural healing and rejuvenation experience unlike any other in the Lowcountry. Sôlt offers a compete packages of services to meet all you needs including: Float Pod, Infrared Sauna, Massage / Body Work, Accupunture, Salt Room, Red Light Therapy, Meditation Pod, Skin Care, Retail Gift Shop. Owner and operator Fiona Scott is so lovely to speak to.
“Hurricane Helene reminded us of the power of neighbors helping neighbors, and South Carolina is ready to stand with Florida in their time of need,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “The National Guard resources being deployed will not interfere with our own recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene and will still allow for our National Guard to deploy in South Carolina to prepare for potential impacts from Hurricane Milton.”
Approximately 70 Soldiers, 30 high-water vehicles, and two support vehicles from the 1051st Transportation Company in Varnville will be part of South Carolina’s Hurricane Milton support to Florida. Additionally, the S.C. Army National Guard, in conjunction with S.C. State Fire, will deploy a South Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (HART) asset to augment the Florida National Guard in response to Hurricane Milton. South Carolina HART is a specialized Search and Rescue asset consisting of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, UH-72 Lakota helicopters, Army National Guard aircrew members, and rescue technicians from South Carolina Task Force 1.
More than 60 Soldiers assigned to the 678th Air Defense Artillery Brigade Headquarters will deploy, providing command and control for four battalions.
The deployment is part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid agreement among states that allows for the sharing of personnel, equipment, and other resources during declared emergencies. For more information on EMAC, click here.
The South Carolina National Guard continues responding to requests for assistance within South Carolina supporting local law enforcement with ongoing recovery efforts due to Hurricane Helene.
For any questions related to the South Carolina National Guard’s efforts in Florida, pleasecontact Major Karla Evans.
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Birla Carbon, a leading manufacturer and supplier of carbon solutions, today announced it selects Orangeburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $1 billion investment will create 124 new jobs.
With more than 160 years of experience, Birla Carbon is one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of high-quality carbon additives globally. The company currently operates 17 manufacturing facilities in 14 countries, providing solutions for rubber, plastics, coatings, inks and other niche industries.
Birla Carbon will construct a 435,000-square-foot building at the Tri-County Industrial Site in Orangeburg to serve as a next-generation, synthetic graphite continuous production facility. The new operation will supply anode active materials which is enough to support more than 40-gigawatt hours (GWh) battery plants. The initial phase will produce 25,000 tons of synthetic graphite annually to meet the projected demand for the electric vehicle, energy storage and defense markets.
Operations are expected to be online in 2026. Birla Carbon will be providing education and internship opportunities to build a pipeline of employees, as well as childcare subsidies to help new parents work at the company’s facility. Employment opportunities will be available in 2025.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
QUOTES
“Birla Carbon is excited to join the state of South Carolina in making this significant investment that will contribute to the growth of this critical industry domestically. As a global leader in our industry, we are constantly looking for opportunities to collaborate with like-minded partners that make a real difference. This plant is an investment in the future as the demand for electric vehicles and energy storage markets will only grow. The investment aligns with our purpose to ‘Share the Strength’ as we will create value and drive positive change, supporting our stakeholders, especially our customers and the communities in which we operate.” -Birla Carbon President and Chief Executive Officer John Loudermilk
“South Carolina’s strong economy and pro-business climate continue to attract major investments for our state. Birla Carbon’s substantial $1 billion investment and the 124 new jobs it will create will have a transformative impact in Orangeburg County, and we look forward to the company’s success in our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“When innovative global companies like Birla Carbon choose to invest in our state, it sends a message that South Carolina has the resources and workforce necessary for businesses to thrive. We appreciate Birla Carbon’s significant investment in Orangeburg County and its confidence in South Carolina to be a partner for the future.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Orangeburg County is proud to welcome Birla Carbon to our growing community of innovative industries. With a capital investment of $1 billion and the creation of 124 new jobs, this advanced manufacturing facility, specializing in synthetic graphite, highlights our county’s immense potential and reinforces our commitment to fostering long-term economic growth. We look forward to the opportunities this will bring to our residents and the positive impact it will have on our community. On behalf of the county council and the citizens of Orangeburg County, we extend our gratitude to Birla Carbon for choosing Orangeburg as the home for this groundbreaking facility.” -Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright
“We are thrilled to welcome Birla Carbon to the Cooperative family. This project reflects the strategic investments Tri-County Electric Cooperative has made in infrastructure and site development in Orangeburg County. The job creation and investment in our community will not only boost our local economy but also highlight our commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the region.” -Tri-County Electric Cooperative CEO Chad Lowder
FIVE FAST FACTS
Birla Carbon selects Orangeburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation.
The company’s $1 billion investment will create 124 new jobs.
Birla Carbon is a leading manufacturer and supplier of carbon solutions.
The company will be located at the Tri-County Industrial Site in Orangeburg, S.C.
Employment opportunities will be available in 2025.
On occasion, you meet a small business owner that is doing it for the right reasons. For Stephen Robinson, born and raised James Island, it was through tragedy that he found the passion to open Rype Juice Bar, located at 1291 Folly Road, Apt 120, James Island, SC, and provide the neighborhood with healthy solutions to enhance a better life. This carefully designed concept of health & wellness, shared work space, and nutrition based thinking is a model for a well balanced life style.
Meet Stephen Robinson
It took just one visit to win us over because we witnessed a unique storefront not yet explored. Let me explain a little further.
Sound Proof Work Stations (This was an eye opener)
So many of us work remotely and one of the biggest challenges about working at a restaurant or coffeeshop is the privacy to take a conference call or work on sensitive materials. Let us take it even a step further, so many deal with everyday anxiety and these work stations provide a safe and wellness based solution.
This option really stood out as a testament to Stephen’s commitment to provide James Island and beyond a healthy places to eat, stop in for a juice or smoothie or work.
We highly recommend Rype; an absolute gem of a concept.