On July 31, 2024, the City of Charleston’s Office of Minority Business Enterprise hosted a ribbon-cutting for the new Entrepreneur Resource Center located at the James Lewis Apartment Complex at 91 Hanover Street, Charleston, S.C. 29403.
The Entrepreneur Resource Center (ERC) is a business incubator for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs, including startups and freelancers. It will provide co-working spaces, private and semi-private offices, a conference room, a computer lab, future retail space, business resources and other amenities with a particular focus under-represented, disadvantaged, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses.
Ruth Jordan, Minority & Women-owned Business Enterprise Manager for the City of Charleston, said, “This center will be a catalyst for closing the economic inequality gap for women and minority-owned businesses by providing resources and quality workspace at an affordable rate.”
The rates vary from daily drop-ins at $25 to monthly desk and office rentals at $430.
“The ERC represents a significant step forward in our commitment to affordability in Charleston,” said Mayor William Cogswell. “This space will provide great opportunities for individuals to start or expand their businesses, making what once seemed unattainable now within reach.”
The historic boutique hotel celebrates its official summer debut after its top-to-bottom reinvention
CHARLESTON, S.C., (July 30, 2024) – Following an extensive, multimillion-dollar reinvention, The Ansonborough Charleston—sourced, co-developed, capitalized and managed byWright Investments, Inc. and developed byContinental Hospitality Group—will celebrate its official grand opening on September 3, 2024. Formerly known as The Ansonborough Inn, this intimate luxury inn, conveniently located in the heart of the city’s historic downtown district, will debut as a homebase for travelers seeking to discover genuine Charleston hospitality and an authentic neighborhood experience. Striking a balance between honoring history and embracing modern charm, The Ansonborough proudly embodies the vibrant spirit of Charleston’s oldest neighborhood established in the 1700s by Lord Anson, a British Royal Navy Officer who won the neighborhood in a game of cards according to lore.
“This is a momentous occasion as we officially open our doors and introduce dynamic new energy into the property,” said Larry Wright Jr., president and CEO of Wright Investments, Inc. “This building has stood as a cornerstone of the neighborhood for over a century, and we humbly embraced the responsibility of preserving its rich legacy throughout this renovation.”
Generous Guest Rooms, Neighborhood Bar and Private Rooftop Scene A uniquely Charleston guest experience begins upon arrival into a newly transformed, intimate lobby and communal area. Thoughtfully crafted with ample open seating, it fosters interaction and is a hub for social gatherings. The hotel’s 45 guest rooms are among the most spacious in the city, with 20 percent exceeding 600 square feet and an average size of 475 square feet. A desirable mix of accommodations ranges from inviting, standard luxury guest rooms to a wide variety of large suite configurations. Each room has a distinct personality and charm, many with 16- to 20-foot-high ceilings and exposed brick and timbers, adding warmth and richness to each stay. The hotel boasts the newly added Scarborough & Squirrel Bar, which offers elevated light fare and artisanal cocktails, beers, and wines, along with a poker room paying homage to Captain Anson’s legacy that’s tucked away behind a discreet bookcase enclave. The new Rooftop Garden is an exclusive-to-guest outdoor oasis offering comfortable seating areas, fire pits and surround sound—all enveloped in a lush landscape and with views of Charleston’s ubiquitous church steeples and the Cooper River Bridge. For guests that desire more space, the 871-square-foot Admiral Suite offers apartment-style accommodations complete with a walk-in shower, Peloton Bike, dining table and gas fireplace, perfect for special occasions or entertaining.
Distinct, Historical Design The Ansonborough Charleston was originally built as a three-story stationer’s warehouse circa 1901 and has been thoughtfully restored by award-winning designer, Studio 11 Design. The Ansonborough’s new personality has been brought to life through an entirely new visual landscape that’s rooted in its history. Guest room highlights include antique subway tile mirror backsplashes, brushed gold fixtures, mosaic tile flooring and Skara Brae quartz countertops. Adorned with palmettos, crepe myrtles and local flora, and featuring exposed heart pine beams, local fire red brick, historic antiques and a vast collection of original artwork, the hotel’s storied past echoes throughout the renovation.
“After a major renovation and repositioning, the Ansonborough is now a special place to be discovered. We are excited to add to Charleston’s incredible and evolving legacy, a truly unique luxury hotel to be discovered and enjoyed for many years to come,” said Adam Valente, president of Continental Hospitality Group.
“Throughout the renovation process, our goal was to unearth the property’s rich history and distinctive character that resides within its wall. The property now balances historic and timeless charm with elegance and modern comfort,” said General Manager Carrie Huston. “It’s truly gratifying to see this final vision take shape, and we eagerly look forward to extending a warm welcome to guests from around the world.”
To make a reservation or for more information, please visit www.theansonborough.com or call 843.723.1655.
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About Wright Investments, Inc. Wright Investments, Inc. is a privately-held hospitality development and management company located in Memphis, TN. The company’s expertise lies in three distinct, but integrated verticals: hotel investment, hotel management and capital projects. Wright Investments teams with best-in-class brands, but also works with independent, lifestyle hotels. Markets range from top U.S. metropolitan areas to resort locations.www.wrightinvestments.com.
About Continental Hospitality Group
Continental Hospitality Group is a Columbus, Ohio-based hotel company which invests in premium quality hotels in strong markets nationwide. CHG currently has 16 high-quality branded and independently-affiliated hotels in 7 states.www.continental-hospitality.com.
About Studio 11 Design Founded in 2011, Studio 11 Design is an award-winning Dallas-based, full-service interior design firm, led by principal and owner Kellie Sirna. With decades of combined experience in hotel, restaurant, nightclub, casino, resort and spa designs around the world, the team provides innovative and inspiring modern design solutions in international hospitality and leisure markets. From property touchups to full scale renovations and new construction design, the in-house teams bring a client’s vision to life – complete with additional support available from the branding (Brand Bottega) and art design (Lou Verne by Studio 11 Design) extensions of the firm. For more information on Studio 11 Design, visit www.studio11design.com.
We are so proud to announce that two of our very own restaurants have been named by Yelp as one of the best new restaurants in the South for 2024.
Congratulations to Costa and Xo Brasserie for being recognized for excellence in quality, customer service, unique culinary precision and overall excellence by diners like you!
Xo Brasserie came in at #14 and Costa ranked #17 on the list. Restaurants represented in this 2024 list come from Nashville, Louisville, Orlando, Austin, New Orleans, Miami, Pembroke Pines, FL, Dallas, The Woodlands, TX, Jackson, MS, Tampa, Atlanta, Edmond, OK, Hot Springs, AR, Houston, Raleigh, Birmingham.
Charleston, Dallas, Miami, Austin, New Orleans and Nashville each had 2 restaurants in the Top 25.
What are people saying about our selections in Charleston?
Xo Brasserie – 1090 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
Praise is piling up for the Cantonese and Sichuan dishes at this NoMo newcomer. Executive Chef Michael Chanthavong oversees the menu, which features classics like Crab Fried Rice and Steak Chow Fun, while owner Herman Ng keeps things running seamlessly. The decor runs to shades of jade and warm wood accents, while potted palms line the windows and a mural of origami cranes flies along the walls. After dark, dramatic lighting creates an air of romance.
Yelpers say: “Go soon while rezzies may still be had. The food is flavorful and sublime. The dumpling wrappers are like silk, the fillings superb. The Crab Rangoon was filled with a creamy, craveable, cheesy crab. The Xinjiang Lamb Lollipops with curry sauce were fantastic. The Mapo Tofu was perfectly seasoned and addictive. Super staff. Beautiful decor. Can’t wait to go back.” —Lawrence L.
Costa – 320 Broad St Suite 160, Charleston, SC 29401
Taste the best of coastal Italy, from Liguria to Amalfi and all the way to Sicily, at this popular Charleston newcomer. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Ashley River, while sunny yellow and deep blue banquettes reinforce the waterside vibe. An open kitchen with a counter spanning most of the dining room invites guests to watch Executive Chef Vinson Petrillo (also of local hotspot Zero George) and team whip up standout dishes featuring fresh seafood (scallops, shrimp, oysters, tuna, and more). Yelpers are especially fond of the Burrata Caprese with confit tomatoes and katsuobushi (smoked, fermented skipjack tuna) on sourdough. Caviar is optional.
Yelpers say: “Our experience at Costa was a culinary delight. Standouts [included] flawlessly crafted Scallop Crudo, indulgent oysters, and luscious Burrata. The stars of the evening were the perfectly cooked Cherry Point Swordfish and Beef Cheek Tortelli. We ended the night with Almond Polenta Cake with olive oil drizzles. Very yummy. With its delightful Italian cuisine and outstanding service, Costa deserves our wholehearted recommendation.” —Yelp Elite Shamila P.
COLUMBIA, S.C. –Portside Technology, an information technology (IT) services company, today announced it is expanding its Charleston County operations. The company’s continued local investments, partnered with its historical and continued merger and acquisitions strategy, will create 89 new jobs.
Founded in Charleston in 2020, Portside Technology provides professional IT services and technology infrastructure to small and midsize businesses in the Charleston area and beyond. The company offers a holistic approach to technology solutions with services ranging from design and procurement to installation and ongoing support.
Portside Technology recently expanded into two large office spaces across the second and fifth floors in the Charleston Tech Center located at 997 Morrison Drive, Charleston.
Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Portside Technology team should emailhr@portsidetechnology.com.
QUOTES
“We are thrilled to continue our rapid growth in Charleston County; while it’s a beautiful place to live and work, it’s also a business-friendly environment for us to attract and retain top technology talent. With exciting opportunities and more growth ahead, we’re proud to call Charleston our home.” -Portside Technology CEO Zach McNamara
“Today’s announcement by Portside Technology is another win for Charleston County’s thriving technology industry. We applaud the company’s decision to invest and create 89 new jobs in South Carolina and wish them continued success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Congratulations to Portside Technology on this expansion. We are always proud when an existing company finds success in our state and look forward to watching Portside Technology continue to grow in Charleston County.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“The dedication to supporting small and midsize businesses with IT needs makes Portside Technology a valuable asset to the county. It’s fantastic to see a homegrown tech company like Portside thrive and contribute to our community’s economic engine.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III
FIVE FAST FACTS
Portside Technology is expanding its Charleston County operations.
The company’s continuedinvestment will create 89 new jobs.
Portside Technology is an information technology services company.
The company is located at 997 Morrison Drive in Charleston, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the Portside Technology team should email hr@portsidetechnology.com.
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, and U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn announced today the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has been awarded $175 million by the Federal Highway Administration to replace four bridges on I-95 over Lake Marion. This award is one of the largest federal discretionary grant awards ever received by SCDOT.
Senator Graham and Congressman Clyburn led the South Carolina Congressional Delegation in securing funding for the project. In November, Governor McMaster sent a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg supporting the delegation’s efforts.
The grant will allow the four bridges, originally constructed in 1968, with narrow shoulders and roadway approaches, to be rebuilt into one bridge with two 12-foot travel lanes in both the southbound and northbound direction. The project would provide a barrier-separated bicycle and pedestrian path.
The project will also provide space for a potential future additional travel lane in each direction with a 10-foot minimum inside shoulder and a 12-foot outside shoulder in each direction. You can read more on the project here.
Governor Henry McMaster:
“The I-95 bridge project has long been a top priority in South Carolina, and once complete, it will reduce highway congestion, improve safety and enhance coastal evacuation capabilities during major hurricanes,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “This could not have been accomplished without the work of Team South Carolina, and especially the work of Congressman Clyburn and Senator Graham, who worked tirelessly to secure this funding.”
Senator Lindsey Graham:
“This $175 million in funding to replace the I-95 bridges over Lake Marion is great news for the state of South Carolina. I’ve enjoyed working with Congressman Clyburn and Governor McMaster to make the case for the necessity of this grant. I appreciate Secretary Buttigieg and the Department of Transportation for understanding the merits of our grant application. This will be transformative for the region. When people choose to work together, good things happen for South Carolina.”
Congressman James E. Clyburn:
“Today marks another significant milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration’s effort to repair critical infrastructure in rural communities. This long-overdue project will not only benefit the residents of Orangeburg and Clarendon — it will also help ensure safety, support economic growth, and enhance connectivity for South Carolinians across the state for years to come.”
Secretary of Transportation Justin P. Powell:
“Today’s announcement marks the beginning of a long-awaited and nationally important project that will transform this region. SCDOT worked aggressively to make this project shovel ready and I expect construction will be underway next year. This bridge is a critical link in the east coast supply chain and connects the communities here with economic opportunity, education and healthcare. We are making tremendous progress to advance the priorities of South Carolinians and I look forward to delivering a project that will make our state proud.”
SCDOT Commission Chair Pamela Christopher:
“I’m proud of the work the team at SCDOT is doing. Fixing aging infrastructure is a goal of our 10-year plan and this project will improve the flow of people and goods through our state. I want to thank our Governor, our representatives in Washington and our South Carolina General Assembly for their continued support and investment in moving South Carolina forward.”
In August 2024, several new stores are set to open in Charleston, South Carolina, including:
Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles(North Charleston – Gas Lite Square Shopping Center at 5623 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC) – Third location in the state of South Carolina and the first in the Lowcountry. Follow on Instagram.
Mae’s Sweets with Soul (West Ashley – 3919 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC – The official date of the new location is not yet set, but you can still order from Mae’s Tuesday – Saturday, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM – 843-813-8735 / Lillie@MaesSweetsWithSoul.com
The Oyster Tavern (James Island) – Located at 1411 Folly Road, part of the new Riverland Market.
GG’s on Maybank (James Island – 1739 Maybank Highway, Charleston, SC) – James Island’s first home decor & furniture boutique. Three generations locally owned & operated offering indoor/outdoor furniture, rugs, lighting, pillows and custom orders. Follow on Instagram.
Divorce is often portrayed as a contentious, dramatic process filled with conflict and animosity. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right approach and mindset, it’s possible to end your marriage with mutual respect, cooperation, and dignity. Achieving an amicable divorce in Charleston, SC, or anywhere else, is within reach if both parties are willing to prioritize open communication, compromise, and understanding.
Below are five key steps to achieving a peaceful divorce.
Start with Open Communication:
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any amicable divorce. It’s essential to approach discussions with your spouse openly, honestly, and respectfully. Clearly communicate your needs, concerns, and priorities while also actively listening to your spouse’s perspective. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, you can work together to find common ground and reach mutually acceptable agreements.
Focus on the Big Picture:
During a divorce, it’s easy to get caught up in minor details and petty disputes. However, it’s crucial to keep the big picture in mind and focus on the long-term well-being of both parties and any children involved. Ask yourself: What are my ultimate goals for the divorce process? How can we prioritize cooperation and compromise to achieve those goals? By maintaining perspective and focusing on the broader objectives, you can avoid unnecessary conflicts and work towards a more amicable resolution.
Consider Mediation:
Mediation is a highly effective alternative to traditional litigation for couples seeking an amicable divorce. In Charleston, SC, and beyond, divorce mediation offers a collaborative, non-adversarial approach to resolving disputes with the assistance of a neutral mediator. During mediation sessions, couples can work together to address key issues such as asset division, child custody, and spousal support in a cooperative and constructive manner. By empowering couples to make their own decisions and find creative solutions, mediation can help minimize conflict, reduce stress, and streamline the divorce process.
Practice Empathy and Compassion:
Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged experience for all parties involved. It’s essential to approach the process with empathy and compassion, recognizing that both you and your spouse are navigating uncharted territory and experiencing a range of emotions. Be mindful of each other’s feelings, validate each other’s experiences, and strive to treat each other with kindness and understanding. By demonstrating empathy and compassion, you can foster a more positive and cooperative dynamic, making it easier to achieve an amicable divorce.
Prioritize Self-Care:
Divorce can take a significant toll on your emotional and mental well-being. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care throughout the process, taking time to recharge, relax, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, exercising, or spending time with supportive friends and family, investing in self-care can help you navigate the challenges of divorce with resilience and grace.
By following these steps, you can navigate the end of your marriage with dignity and grace.
roposed publicly by former Charleston mayor Joe Riley more than 20 years ago, and championed by Congressman Jim Clyburn, the nation’s second largest African American museum finally opened last summer. To symbolize the sacredness of its location on Gadsden’s Wharf, a place where African captives arrived by the thousands, the International African American Museum (IAAM) is elevated 13 feet above the ground. The experience of visiting kicks off in the African Ancestors Memorial Garden, designed by landscape architect and MacArthur Genius Grant recipient Walter Hood, with installations such as “Tide Tribute,” a fountain of water washing over a replica of the horrifically cruel “Brookes” slave ship diagram, honoring its human cargo. Inside, a glassed entrance opens to 8-foot screens flashing faces of the African Diaspora and pre-colonial landscapes, teasing the expansive interactive journey of tragedy and triumph that unfolds over the museum’s 22,280-plus-square-foot gallery space. Core exhibits include “African Roots/African Routes” which explores pre-enslavement origins in West and West Central Africa, while “Carolina Gold/Memories of the Enslaved” delves into the Lowcountry’s past. All told, the collection features more than 150 artifacts, 30 works of art, and nearly 50 films. Connecting past and future on a more personal level, the IAAM’s Center for Family History also offers genealogy services and records oral histories.
Buy your copy of the World’s Greatest Places issue here
HEART provides visual arts, music, and performing arts mentorships and community engagement for adults with disabilities who want to grow and develop as artists. At HEART, we have created a studio where artists of all abilities work together to create something that enriches and transforms the community.
About Heart SC
HEART was founded in 2014 by Farrah Hoffmire. While teaching yoga to a group of adults with disabilities as a volunteer, she learned about the struggles disabled adults and their families face after graduating from high school.
Farrah wanted to use her time and skills to help fill the void in creative and stimulating services for adults with disabilities that was firmly engaged in its surrounding community.
Her vision for HEART was to build strong community support for adults with disabilities who want to develop and identify as artists, have a strong team of HEART Mentors, a financially sustainable infrastructure, and to produce high quality and inclusive arts events in the community.
We Are Family, the Charleston-based nonprofit offering life-affirming programs to LGBTQ+ youth in the Lowcountry, is thrilled to announce its selection as a 2024 Kindness in Community Fund grant recipient by Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, supporting youth mental health and wellbeing in our community. The Kindness in Community Fund granted We Are Family $50,000 to support its core Mental Health Assistance Program (MHAP). We Are Family’s MHAP provides free mental health services for LGBTQ+ young people and connects them with LGBTQ+-affirming therapists.
The Born This Way Foundation, co-founded by Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, partnered with Australian-born fashion and lifestyle brand Cotton On and its philanthropic arm, the Cotton On Foundation, to support and award $1.5 million to organizations meeting the mental health needs of young adults globally in various countries, including Australia, Brazil, Hong Kong, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Africa, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, at $150K total grants per country.
“I’m delighted and humbled to share that We Are Family has been awarded $50,000 in support of our Mental Health Assistance Program!” shares We Are Family Executive Director Domenico Ruggerio. “We know we do amazing work and that MHAP is a very special life-saving program, and it’s very affirming that others, especially Lady Gaga’s foundation, also recognize this and are helping to fund our work.”
Young people worldwide led the Kindness in Community Fund from nominations to final selections, choosing recipients committed to youth mental wellness, community inclusion, and free, accessible resources.
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