Chris Shinn’s spring tour feels less like a career push and more like a reunion: seasoned players, shared stories, and nights that prioritize feel over flash. “This run was selfish in the best way. I wanted to know if I still wanted to do it,” Shinn said, summing up why he pulled the band back onto the road after years away from full-time touring.
ShinN is named for him—an umbrella for varied projects and sounds. Shinn describes a songwriting method that has evolved: “What I’ve learned in the last handful of years is my newfound way of writing music is starting from the drums or a groove.” He programs odd patterns, learns them on kit, and lets the groove dictate the arrangement. The result is music that often reads cinematic and textural, songs that “should, without vocals, be just as interesting,” he explains. That cinematic ambition sits alongside lean pop moments and the occasional jagged industrial edge, reflecting the band’s diverse lineage without letting pedigree define their direction.
Life on the road, Shinn admits, is a steady mix of labor and reward. Technical hiccups and long days are part of the deal—“you just learn to grin and bear it and push through”—but so are the reunions that make touring worthwhile. Playing New Orleans recently, he says, felt like “a reunion from, you know, 20 years ago,” when old friends packed a room and the show became a shared memory rather than a mere performance.
Fans matter more than metrics. Shinn has shifted to releasing singles, so each song gets its own moment; “if 20 people hear it, that’s fine,” he says, preferring to build a catalog true to his impulses rather than chase trends. For the Charleston Pour House date on Monday, February 16, 2026, expect that mix: older favorites, fresh singles and the warm camaraderie of a band that’s chosen to play for the joy of it. As Shinn put it, touring now is about being on the same team—“we’re older now…we’re not here to fight; we’re here to play.”
ShinN is performing this Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Charleston Pour House – Click HERE for tickets.
A Resilient Luxury Market Driven by Limited Inventory and Buyer Demand
JOHNS ISLAND, S.C., Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate reports that Johns Island, South Carolina continues to stand out as one of the Charleston region’s most resilient luxury real estate markets, supported by limited inventory, protected land, and sustained buyer demand. The firm’s Johns Island Specialist, Cortney Franklin, notes that as the 2026 market unfolds,indicators suggest continued stability and opportunity, particularly within the island’s high-end residential sector.
High-End Properties Remain in Demand:
Luxury properties on Johns Island — including waterfront estates, gated golf communities, and private acreage — remain highly sought after despite broader national market fluctuations. Buyers are increasingly drawn to the island’sblend of privacy, natural beauty, and proximity to historic Charleston and the beaches. Strict zoning regulations and limited new development reinforce long-term value, positioning Johns Island as a mature and enduring luxury market.View current luxury listings for sale.
2026 Market Outlook: Stability and Selective Appreciation:
Forecasts for 2026 indicate that while appreciation may moderate, demand for well-located, high-quality luxury homes remains strong. According to Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate:
Luxury home sales on Johns Island priced above $2 million increased 18% year-over year
The average luxury sales price increased by 11% during the same period
The data underscores sustained buyer confidence in the island’s high-end segment despite broader national market fluctuations.
Buyer preferences continue to emphasize turnkey residences, modern coastal design, and communities that offer both exclusivity and lifestyle amenities. Homes that demonstrate thoughtful architecture, quality construction, and long-term livability are projected to outperform the broader market.
Recent activity within Briars Creek, one of Johns Island’s most exclusive gated communities, reflects these trends. Pam Harrington’s successful sale of 4265 Wild Turkey Way, a luxury residence within this coastal enclave, underscores continued demand for refined homes in established luxury settings. Briars Creek is known for its championship golf course, expansive conservation lands, and low-density development, making it a premier destination for discerning buyers. 4121 Golf Cottage Lane is currently the best buy in the neighborhood, listed at $2,999,999.
As Buyer Expectations Rise and Appreciation Moderates, Expert Guidance Becomes Essential:
Navigating this competitive landscape is Cortney Franklin, who has been named the Pam Harrington Exclusives Johns Island Specialist. Franklin brings focused local expertise, strategic pricing insight, and access to Pam Harrington Exclusives elevated luxury marketing, delivering tailored representation for both buyers and sellers.
“Johns Island has developed into a highly sophisticated luxury market,” said Franklin. “Today’s buyers are informed and intentional, prioritizing privacy, quality, and long-term value. Strategic representation is critical to achieving successful outcomes. As the spouse of a Lowcountry custom home builder, I offer a distinct advantage to buyer and seller clients. My close connection to the building side provides valuable insight into construction quality, design decisions, and sustained market appeal.”
As Charleston continues to attract lifestyle-driven buyers, Johns Island is expected to remain a cornerstone of the region’s luxury real estate performance throughout 2026.
About Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate
Pam Harrington Exclusives is a local luxury real estate firm specializing in distinctive properties throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry, recognized for its market leadership and high-touch client service.
Hey there Goose Creek what it’s like performing in our City? You’ll have a chance to find out because the Plain White T’s are coming to the Joseph S. Daning Amphitheater in April (with support from Babe Club)!
📅 Saturday, April 25, 2026 ⏰ Doors open at 5PM, show starts at 6PM 🆓 FREE to attend, but you MUST have a ticket for entry 🎫 Tickets are live on Friday, Feb. 13 at noon (12pm EST)! Tickets are only available on Eventbrite. Create an account prior to tickets going live to secure yours!
We are so proud to announce the grand opening of River Street Sweets in downtown Charleston, South Carolina on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
This is the 15th location in the nation for River Street Sweets, and third in the Charleston area. The newest location on the Charleston peninsula at 351 King Street.
Details of the new location:
Location: 351 King Street
Hours: Monday – Thursday – 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM / Friday – Saturday – 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM / Sunday – 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Features: Famous Southern pralines, chocolate treats, and an ice cream/gelato bar
Come on by and get your sweet on just in time for Valentine’s Day Weekend.
Approximately $40 million investment will create 50 new jobs
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Georg Utz, Inc., a plastic container manufacturer, today announced it selects Sumter County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The approximately $40 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
Founded in 2003, Georg Utz, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Switzerland-based Utz Group, a family-owned company with over 75 years of experience in the manufacturing of returnable plastic containers, pallets, component holders and custom solutions. Georg Utz, Inc. currently operates a manufacturing facility in Indiana.
The company will construct a 90,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, located at Race Track Road and U.S. Highway 521 in Sumter, which will produce rigid returnable packaging.
Operations are expected to be online in 2028. Individuals interested in joining the Georg Utz, Inc. team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $750,000 Closing Fund grant to Sumter County to assist with the costs of site preparation, water and sewer improvements, and rail improvements.
QUOTES
“We are pleased to announce our new location in Sumter, South Carolina, which signifies a significant advancement in our company’s continued growth, enabling us to improve service delivery, broaden our operational capabilities and reinforce our position within the market.” -Georg Utz, Inc. President Pat Huesing
“Georg Utz, Inc. selecting Sumter County and South Carolina for its newest operation showcases the strength of our manufacturing industry. We celebrate the 50 new jobs this investment will bring and look forward to seeing the company’s success in our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“We are delighted to welcome Georg Utz, Inc. to the Palmetto State. This approximately $40 million investment is poised to have a long-lasting impact in the Sumter County community as it brings new job opportunities for our people.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“This investment reflects the results of South Carolina’s commitment to smart, pro-business policies that encourage companies to expand and create jobs in our communities. I’m proud to see Sumter County chosen for Georg Utz, Inc.’s first operation in our state, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this facility will have on our local workforce and regional economy.” -Speaker of the S.C. House of Representatives Murrell Smith Jr.
“We are excited to welcome Georg Utz, Inc. to Sumter, South Carolina. This mutually beneficial partnership will no doubt flourish and as they grow, we will also and are therefore committed to their continued support and success.” -Sumter County Council Chairman James McCain
“Georg Utz Inc. opening its doors in Sumter County is an exciting one. The investment and jobs created will continue to cement this area as a dedicated space for business success.” -TheLINK Alliance Chairman Gordon Eckley
FIVE FAST FACTS
Georg Utz, Inc. selects Sumter County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation.
The company’s approximately $40 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
Georg Utz, Inc. is a plastic container manufacturer.
The company will be located at Race Track Road and U.S. Highway 521 in Sumter, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Georg Utz, Inc. team should visit the company’s careers page.
CREDIT ONE CHARLESTON OPEN COMMITS TO EQUAL PRIZE MONEY; RECORD $2.5 MILLION AWARDED TO PLAYERS IN HISTORIC MILESTONE Charleston will offer an unprecedented $2.5 million player compensation package for a WTA 500 tournament as part of its commitment to equal pay in tennis; $2.3 million in prize money and $200,000 in player benefits
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Credit One Charleston Open, a WTA 500 tournament and North America’s largest women’s-only professional tennis event, will commit $2.5 million to its players in 2026, including a record $2.3 million in on-site prize money and $200,000 towards player benefits programs. This total investment doubles the amount offered in 2025 and marks a landmark moment in the sport, making Charleston the first standalone WTA 500 event to proactively raise prize money.
In April 2025, Credit One Bank extended its title partnership of the Credit One Charleston Open through 2031 and, as part of that extension and commitment to the sport, announced the tournament would offer equal prize money beginning in 2026. The decision reflects the bank’s belief in investing in women athletes at the highest level and further reinforces Charleston’s position as a leader on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz.
“Women’s tennis is delivering at a very high level right now, from the quality of competition to the engagement from fans, and this investment reflects that,” said Ben Navarro, Tournament Owner of the Credit One Charleston Open. “Offering equal prize money is about respecting the players and the work they put in, and aligning the tournament with the value of the game.”
The 2026 WTA Tour-wide minimum purse for a WTA 500 event is $1,206,446. With Charleston’s total player compensation reaching $2.5 million ($1,293,554 more than required), the tournament will reward players $2.3 million in on-court earnings plus a $200,000 contribution to the Women’s Tennis Benefits Association (WTBA), which offers key services for players including a pension plan, health insurance and healthcare benefits, and subsidized college tuition and online degrees through the University of Florida and Indiana University East, along with additional benefit initiatives.
“We’re proud to support the Credit One Charleston Open, the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America, as it becomes the first standalone WTA 500-level event to take meaningful action toward closing the gender pay gap that prevails in tennis,” says Amber Greenwalt, SVP, Brand and Advertising, Credit One Bank. “As champions of fostering forward financial momentum and opportunity for all, our commitment to equal prize money for women marks an important milestone and sets the stage for what’s ahead in women’s tennis.”
The Charleston Open has a long legacy of breaking new ground in tennis, having been the first women’s tennis event to offer $100,000 in prize money in 1973 and the first to be broadcast live on network television. The inaugural champion, Rosie Casals, received a check for $30,000, which was the largest prize money payout awarded to a woman that year. The tournament was also recently named the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year, for the fourth consecutive year, voted on by the players, and was the first WTA Tour clay tennis tournament to introduce Electronic Line Calling Live in 2025.
“The Credit One Charleston Open offering equal prize money is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Madison Keys, 2019 Charleston Champion and WTA Players’ Council representative. “It represents real progress for women’s tennis and shows how far the sport continues to grow. As players, we’re very fortunate to have a tournament and title sponsor who genuinely sees the value in women’s sports and are willing to lead by example”
As part of the WTA’s pathway towards equal prize money, all 500-level standalone tournaments are projected to offer equal prize money by 2033.
The Credit One Charleston Open will return to the Credit One Stadium, March 28 – April 5, 2026. Current player commitments include top-ranked Americans Amanda Anisimova, Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys and Emma Navarro, as well as Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic. The nine-day Credit One Charleston Open showcases a singles draw of 48 players, a qualifying draw of 24 players, and a doubles draw of 16 players. The event traditionally hosts more than 90,000 attendees on Daniel Island.
Tickets are currently on sale at creditonecharlestonopen.com or by calling (843) 856-7900. For additional information, please email info@creditonestadium.com or visit creditonecharlestonopen.com. When purchasing tickets for the 2026 Credit One Charleston Open, patrons have the option to choose from single session tickets and a limited number of ticket packages. Special discounts are available for juniors, seniors, USTA members and military members. Juniors aged 16 and under receive complimentary general admission with the purchase of an adult ticket, courtesy of Credit One Bank.
What They’re Saying:
Portia Archer, WTA CEO: “Charleston’s 2026 financial commitment is an empowering statement about where our sport is headed. It represents a smart, strategic investment in the economic strength and future of the sport and highlights that investment in women’s tennis drives growth, opportunity, and value. We’re proud to see a tournament with such history take this important step forward.”
Bob Moran, Credit One Charleston Open Tournament Director and member of the WTA Board and WTA Foundation Board: “Charleston’s investment represents more than a single tournament milestone. It reflects where the WTA Tour is headed. When we invest in players at this level, we’re investing in the collective future of the Tour, in opportunity, growth and the next generation of athletes who will shape the game. The changes happening today are creating a stronger foundation for what’s next, and the Credit One Charleston Open is proud to be part of that momentum.”
Emma Navarro, World No. 18 and Charleston local: “Growing up in Charleston, this tournament has always meant so much to me. Seeing the Credit One Charleston Open take a historic step forward by offering equal prize money is a meaningful moment for our sport. It shows real leadership and a commitment to moving women’s tennis forward. I’m incredibly proud that my hometown tournament is setting the standard.”
Jessica Pegula, a member of the WTA Players’ Council and the 2025 Charleston champion: “Seeing a tournament like Charleston commit to equal prize money matters. It shows that the work we put in and the level we compete at are being recognized. When tournaments continue to invest equally, it sends a clear message to current players and the next generation about where the sport is headed.”
Venus Williams, Former World No. 1 and 2004 Charleston champion: “This is a huge moment for the legacy of our sport which sends a powerful message to the players, fans and the future of tennis. It shows real progress and a belief in the value of women’s sport.”
About the Credit One Charleston Open: The Credit One Charleston Open is North America’s largest women-only tennis tournament. In 2026, the tournament will become the first standalone WTA 500 event to offer equal prize money. Formerly known as the Family Circle Cup and Volvo Car Open, the event was founded in 1973 and relocated to Charleston, S.C., in 2001 from Hilton Head Island, S.C. The tournament has a history of breaking new ground in women’s tennis, including becoming the first women’s event to offer $100,000 in prize money in 1973 and the first to be broadcast live on network television. Recognized as the WTA 500 Event of the Year in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, the tournament traditionally attracts more than 90,000 spectators. It features a singles draw of 48 players, a qualifying draw of 24 players, and a doubles draw of 16 players.In partnership with Tennis Channel and WTA Media, the Credit One Charleston Open is broadcast from the first ball struck in main draw competition to the last ball played in the finals, reaching audiences across the U.S. and through 174 international partners. The tournament receives more than 100 hours of live tennis coverage, engaging millions of fans worldwide.
The Credit One Charleston Open is owned and operated by Charleston Tennis, LLC. For more information on the Credit One Charleston Open, visit creditonecharlestonopen.com, call (843) 856-7900, email info@charlestontennisllc.com, Facebook (Credit One Charleston Open), Twitter (@CharlestonOpen) or Instagram (@CreditOneCharlestonOpen).
About Credit One Bank:
Credit One Bank is one of the fastest-growing credit card issuers in the U.S. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Las Vegas, Credit One Bank offers a full spectrum of credit card products including cash back and points-based cards as well as high-yield certificate of deposit and savings accounts. Credit One Bank is also an official partner of the Las Vegas Raiders and the Official Credit Card of NASCAR, the Vegas Golden Knights, and Best Friends Animal Society. Learn more at CreditOneBank.com, in our Newsroom, or on social media (@CreditOneBank) on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.
The Charleston Airshow is looking for one inspirational community leader to take a passenger seat in a Blue Angels aircraft.
We’re looking for a true role model, someone who encourages local youth to dream big and work hard. The goal is simple: to share an incredible experience with a person who embodies excellence, and in turn, inspires our community.
After the flight, they’ll have an amazing story to tell. We will work in concert with our media partners to help share the journey, giving the entire community a unique glimpse into the thrilling world of naval aviation and motivating others to reach for the sky in their own lives.
Think you know someone deserving of the opportunity?
The 44th annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) fills downtown Charleston with nature-inspired fun, from world-class art to high-energy dog demos, live raptor shows, and more. General admission grants access to exhibits across five major venues, and special events or VIP packages let you deepen the experience.
Key Highlights to Attend
SEWE General Admission & Exhibits – Enjoy access to all main exhibits across Charleston Place, Brittlebank Park, the Gaillard Center, Marion Square, and the Charleston Marriott — including fine art galleries, wildlife displays, artisan vendors, and conservation showcases. Get tickets: Register here
Birds of Prey Flight Demonstrations – See majestic raptors in action with multiple daily flight demos in Marion Square, beloved by kids and adults alike.
DockDogs® Competitions – One of SEWE’s most exciting live events: watch dogs leap for distance and speed in this high-energy competition.
Culinary & Chef Demos – Sample Lowcountry tastes and live cooking from top local chefs throughout the weekend.
Charleston Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast – Kick off SEWE Friday night with all-you-can-eat oysters, Southern fare, open bar, and fun. Tickets: Register here
VIP SEWE Soirée – Celebrate Saturday evening with music, mingling, and premium access with VIP event passes. Register: Details & tickets
Conservation & Kids Activities – New Turtle Survival Alliance demos and enhanced Kids’ Areas offer family-friendly education and interaction.
After finishing second in the nation in a new format last season, the equestrian team is on track to win its first national championship.
By Christine Mahoney
THIS YEAR COULD MARK THE FIRST TIME THE College of Charleston wins a national championship in something other than sailing (28 and counting) since 1983, when the men’s basketball team won the NAIA title prior to joining the NCAA. The equestrian team is currently ranked second in the nation in the National Collegiate Equestrian Association.
Last season, after 40 years competing in Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) events, head coach Natasha “Tash” Vitkovic decided to add NCEA meets. The key differences between the two: Elite women riders go head-to-head in NCEA under NCAA guidelines, while the IHSA provides more inclusive, tryout-based meets for both men and women of various skill levels.
In its first-ever NCEA meet, the team defeated No. 1-ranked University of Lynchburg in single discipline, ultimately finishing the season as national runners-up in the NCEA Single Discipline Championship.
Assistant coach Hope King emphasized that the team, with 10 of the 32 members competing in NCEA, would not have had such immediate success without having first been a competitive IHSA team.
“We are all one,” she says. “Our motto last year was, ‘Two formats, one team.’”
Team captain Olivia Welsh was on the IHSA roster for three years before moving over to the NCEA format this season.
“I’m hoping we can pull off the win,” says the senior business administration major from outside Chicago, referring to the national title. “That’d be a really cool way to finish out my journey at the College.”
No matter the season’s outcome, the coaches cultivate a culture of positivity.
“We want the girls leaving here every day feeling like they’ve contributed to something worthwhile,” says King, who likes the momentum they have built from last season. “In the spring, we got into our groove. It was a real confidence boost. We can do this.”
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Hydrite Chemical Co. (Hydrite), a chemical solutions manufacturer and distributor, today announced it is expanding its operations in Laurens County. The company’s $63 million investment will create 13 new jobs.
Founded in 1929, Hydrite offers a wide range of sustainable solutions that keep food safe, water clean and plants thriving through its three distinct business units: Food & Beverage Solutions, Manufactured Solutions, and Agriculture & Sulfur Solutions. In addition to the Laurens County plant, the company operates a network of manufacturing facilities, warehouses and laboratories located in California, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin and Texas.
Located in the Hunter Industrial Park in Laurens, the 43-acre greenfield site will serve as the future hub of Hydrite operations in the Southeast region, which includes the recently acquired operations of Enterprise Specialty Products, Inc. At the greenfield site, Hydrite will build a 50,000-square-foot facility with offices, laboratories, warehouses, and operations and logistics spaces to be used for chemical manufacturing and distribution.
Operations are expected to be online in 2028. Individuals interested in joining the Hydrite team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $300,000 Set-Aside grant to Laurens County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.
QUOTES
“Building on our recent acquisition of Enterprise Specialty Products, Inc. in Laurens County, we’re proud to deepen our roots in South Carolina with a new greenfield facility. The state’s exceptional business climate and talented workforce make it the right place to invest, create quality jobs and better serve customers across the Southeast and beyond. We are grateful for the support from South Carolina and look forward to being a long-term partner in the Laurens County community’s growth.” -Hydrite CEO Kevin Honkamp
“Thanks to South Carolina’s strong business environment, companies like Hydrite Chemical Co. continue to find success in our state. We congratulate Hydrite on this expansion and look forward to the new opportunities this investment will create in Laurens County.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Hydrite on expanding operations in Upstate South Carolina. The company’s $63 million investment in Laurens County demonstrates the Palmetto State’s continuing economic growth and development.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“Laurens County would like to thank Hydrite for expanding operations in our county. Their investment and job creation will have a tremendous impact on our community. We wish them much success and look forward to a long and prosperous relationship.” -Laurens County Council Chairman Jeff Carroll
FIVE FAST FACTS
Hydrite Chemical Co. (Hydrite) is expanding operations in Laurens County.
The company’s $63 million investment will create 13 new jobs.
Hydrite is a chemical solutions manufacturer and distributor offering a wide range of solutions through its three distinct business units: Food & Beverage Solutions, Manufactured Solutions, and Agriculture & Sulfur Solutions.
The company’s new facility will be located in the Hunter Industrial Park in Laurens, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Hydrite team should visit the company’s careers page.
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