This past weekend marked the Grand Opening of Clean Your Dirty Face, located at 1421 Shucker Circle
Suite 1117, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464.
This new business offers patrons a variety of facial options as well as subscription plans.
On December 20, 1860, by unanimous vote of 169-0, South Carolina became the first Southern state to secede from the Union. Abraham Lincoln’s presidential election in November 1860 set the wheels of secession in motion. Many Southerners were convinced that the new president and his Republican Party would take federal action against slavery.
Below is the official transcript from the Charleston Mercury on the day following the vote (December 21, 1860).
Transcript from the Charleston Mercury – December 21, 1860
The 20th Day of December, in the Year of Our Lord, 1860
Inscribed among the calends of the world - memorable in time to come -- the 20th day of December, in the year of our Lord 1860, has become an epoch in the history of the human race. A great Confederated Republic, overwrought with arrogant and tyrannous oppressions, has fallen from its high estate amongst the nations of the earth. Conservative liberty has been vindicated. Mobocratic license has been stricken down. Order has conquered, yet liberty has survived. Right has raised his banner aloft, and bidden defiance to Might. The problem of self-government under the check- balance of slavery, has secured itself from threatened destruction.
South Carolina has resumed her entire sovereign powers, and, unshackled, has become one of the nations of the earth.
On yesterday, the 20th of December, 1860, just before one o'clock, p.m., the Ordinance of secession was presented by the Committee on "the Ordinance," to the Convention of the people of South Carolina. Precisely at seven minutes after one o'clock, the vote was taken upon the Ordinance -- each man's name being called in order. As name by name fell upon the ear of the silent assembly, the brief sound was echoed back, without one solitary exception in that whole grave body -- Aye!
At 1:15 o'clock, p.m. - the last name was called, the Ordinance of Secession was announced to have been passed, and the last fetter had fallen from the limbs of a brave, but too long oppressed people.
The Convention sat with closed doors. But upon the announcement outside, and upon the MERCURY bulletin board, that South Carolina was no longer a member of the Federal Union, loud shouts of joy rent the air. The enthusiasm was unsurpassed. Old men went shouting down the streets. Cannon were fired, and bright triumph was depicted on every countenance.
But before the Great Seal of the State was affixed to the Ordinance of Secession, and the names of the Delegates to the Convention were signed, it was proposed that this ceremony should be postponed until 7 o'clock that evening; when the Convention should reassemble and move in procession from the St. Andrew's Hall, where they then sat, to the great Secession Hall; and that there, before the assembled citizens of the State, the Great Seal of the State should be set, and each signature made. The proposition was favorably received.
At 6 1/2 o'clock p.m., the Convention reassembled at St. Andrew's Hall. At 6 3/4 o'clock p.m., they formed in procession and moved forward in silence to Secession Hall.
The building was filled to overflowing, and they were received by some three thousand people in the Hall.
The Convention was called to order. The scene was one profoundly grand and impressive. There were a people assembled through their highest representatives -- men most of them upon whose heads the snows of sixty winters had been shed -- patriarchs in age -- the dignitaries of the land -- the High Priests of the Church of Christ -- reverend statesmen -- and the wise judges of the law. In the midst of deep silence, an old man, with bowed form, and hair as white as snow, the Rev. Dr. BACHMAN, advanced forward, with upraised hands, in prayer to Almighty God, for His blessing and favor in this great act of his people, about to be consummated. The who assembly at once rose to its feet, and with hats off, listened to the touching and eloquent appeal to the All Wise Dispenser of events. At the close of the prayer the President advanced with the consecrated parchment upon which was inscribed the decision of the State, with the Great Seal attached. Slowly and solemnly it was read unto the last word -- "dissolved" -- when men could contain themselves no longer, and a shout that shook the very building, reverberating, long-continued, rose to Heaven, and ceased only with the loss of breath. In proud, grave silence, the Convention itself waited the end with beating hearts.
The President then requested the Delegates (by previous decision) to step forward as they were called in the alphabetical order of the Districts which they represented, and sign the Ordinance. Two hours were occupied in this solemn ceremony - the crowd waiting patiently the end. As the delegation from St. Phillip's and St. Michael's came forward, again, the hall was filled with applause. And as the Hon. R.B. RHETT advanced to the parchment, the shouts became deafening, long-continued, until he had seated himself, signed and retired. It was a proud and worthy tribute, gracefully paid, and appreciated. The same special compliment was paid to our Ex-Governor GIST, who recommended in his message to the extra session, the immediate secession of South Carolina from the Union.
At the close of the signatures the President, advancing to the front of the platform, announced that the Seal of the State had been set, the signatures of the Convention put to the Ordinance, and he thereby proclaimed the State of South Carolina a separate, independent nationality.
To describe the enthusiasm with which this announcement was greeted, is beyond the power of the pen. The high, burning, bursting heart alone can realize it. A mighty voice of great thoughts and great emotions spoke from the mighty throat of one people as a unit.
The State of South Carolina has recorded herself before the universe. In reverence before God, fearless of man, unawed by power, unterrified by clamor, she has cut the Gordian knot of colonial dependence upon the North - cast her fortune upon her right, and her own right arm, and stands ready to uphold alike her independence and her dignity before the world. Prescribing to none, she will be dictated to by none willing for peace, she is ready for war. Deprecating blood, she is willing to shed it. Valuing her liberties, she will maintain them. Neither swerved by frowns of foes, nor swayed by timorous solicitations of friends, she will pursue her direct path, and establish for herself and for her posterity, her rights, her liberties and her institutions. Though friends may fail her in her need, though the cannon of her enemies may belch destruction among her people, South Carolina, unawed, unconquerable, will still hold aloft her flag, "ANIMIS OPIBUSQUE PARATI." ["READY IN SPIRIT AND DEEDS"]
ATLANTA, Dec. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) has distributed nearly $5 million in local grants to 330 organizations across its 22-state network as part of its Safety First and Thriving Communities grant programs.
Launched in September, the two grant programs are designed to support organizations that promote safe and sustainable operations, develop local workforces, and build strong, resilient communities across the company’s network.
“The Safety First and Thriving Communities grant programs underscore Norfolk Southern’s longstanding commitment to supporting our communities,” said Kristin Wong, Director Corporate Giving at Norfolk Southern. “We take pride in our ability to empower first responders, nonprofit organizations, and other community groups. Together, we can promote safe, sustainable growth in the towns where we live and work.”
Organizations received grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Specifically, approximately $2.4 million in Safety First grants were awarded to 178 first responder departments and organizations across 18 states to support local and safety-focused initiatives, equipment, and services. Safety First recipient organizations include 104 fire departments and 37 police departments. Approximately $2.5 million in Thriving Communities grants were awarded to 152 organizations across 18 states.
Examples of initiatives that Safety First grant funding will support include:
Examples of initiatives that Thriving Communities grant funding will support include:
The application process for 2024 will open in April and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To learn more about Norfolk Southern’s corporate giving initiatives or apply for a grant, visit here.
About Norfolk Southern
Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a customer-centric and operations-driven freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid approximately 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver more than 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods, and is the largest rail shipper of auto products and metals in North America. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S., serving a majority of the country’s population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com.
SOURCE Norfolk Southern Corporation
CONTACT: Media Relations, media.relations@nscorp.com
Although Andrew Jackson was a firm believer in states’ rights, the beginning of his time in office was marked by a series of battles to preserve federal authority over the states. Many conflicts took place under the shadow of slavery and because the southern states were intensely concerned that the federal government would take action against that institution of slavery. The Tariff of 1828 was just such an issue. Called the “tariff of abominations” in South Carolina, it offered some protection to domestic manufacturers and raised the price of wool and iron in the South. In this essay, Vice President John C. Calhoun objected to the tariffs imposed by the federal government and in broad constitutional terms laid out his state’s justification for resisting the law. The controversy over states’ rights would deepen in subsequent years as proponents on both sides of the debate sharpened their arguments.
The South Carolina Exposition and Protest, also known as Calhoun’s Exposition – December 19, 1828
The Senate and House of Representatives of South Carolina, now met and sitting in General Assembly-through the Honorable William Smith, and the Honorable Robert Y. Hayne, their representatives in the Senate of the United States, do, in the name and on behalf of the good people of the said Commonwealth, solemnly protest against the system of protecting duties lately adopted by the Federal Government, for the following reasons:
1. Because the good people of this Commonwealth believe that the powers of Congress were delegated to it in trust for the accomplishment of certain specified objects which limit and control them, and that every exercise of them for any other purposes is a violation of the Constitution as unwarrantable as the undisguised assumption of substantive independent powers not granted or expressly withheld.
2. Because the power to lay duties on imports is, and in its very nature can be, only a means of effecting objects specified by the Constitution; since no free government, and least of all a government of enumerated powers, can of right impose any tax (any more than a penalty,) which is not at once justified by public necessity, and clearly within the scope and purview of the social compact, and since the right of confining appropriations of the public money to such legitimate and constitutional objects, is as essential to the liberties of the people, as their unquestionable privilege to be taxed only by their own consent.
3. Because they believe that the Tariff Law, passed by Congress at its last session, and all other acts of which the principal object is the protection of manufactures, or any other branch of domestic industry-if they be considered as the exercise of a supposed power in Congress, to tax the people at its own good will and pleasure, and to apply the money raised to objects not specified in the Constitution-is a violation of these fundamental principles, a breach of a well defined trust and a perversion of the high powers vested in the Federal Government for Federal purposes only.
4. Because such acts considered in the light of a regulation of commerce are equally liable to objection-since although the power to regulate commerce, may like other powers, be exercised so as to protect domestic manufactures, yet it is clearly distinguishable from a power to do so eo nomine , both in the nature of the thing and in the common acceptation of the terms; and because the confounding of them would lead to the most extravagant results, since the encouragement of domestic industry implies an absolute control over all the interests, resources and pursuits of a people, and is inconsistent with the idea of any other than a simple consolidated government.
5. Because from the contemporaneous exposition of the Constitution, in the numbers of the Federalist, (which is cited only because the Supreme Court has recognized its authority,) it is clear that the power to regulate commerce was considered by the convention as only incidentally connected with the encouragement of agriculture and manufactures; and because the power of laying imposts and duties on imports, was not understood to justify in any case a prohibition of foreign commodities, except as a means of extending commerce by coercing foreign nations to a fair reciprocity in their intercourse with us, or for some other bona fide commercial purpose.
6. Because that whilst the power to protect manufactures is no where expressly granted to Congress, nor can be considered as necessary and proper to carry into effect any specified power, it seems to be expressly reserved to the States by the tenth section of the first article of the Constitution.
7. Because even admitting Congress to have a constitutional right to protect manufactures by the imposition of the duties or by regulations of commerce, designed principally for that purpose, yet a Tariff of which the operation is grossly unequal and oppressive, is such an abuse of power, as is incompatible with the principles of a free government and the great ends of civil society, justice and equality of rights and protection.
8. Finally, because South Carolina, from her climate, situation, and peculiar institutions, is, and must ever continue to be, wholly dependant upon agriculture and commerce, not only for her prosperity, but for her very existence as a state-because the valuable products of her soil-the blessings by which Divine Providence seems to have designed to compensate for the great disadvantages under which she suffers in other respects-are among the very few that can be cultivated with any profit by slave labor-and if by the loss of her foreign commerce, these products should be confined to an inadequate market, the fate of this fertile State would be poverty and utter desolation -her citizens in despair would emigrate to more fortunate regions, and the whole frame and constitution of her civil polity be impaired and deranged, if not dissolved entirely.
Deeply impressed with these considerations, the Representatives of the good people of this Commonwealth, anxiously desiring to live in peace with their fellow citizens, and to do all that in them lies to preserve and perpetuate the union of the States and the liberties of which it is the surest pledge-but feeling it to be their bounden duty to expose and to resist all encroachments upon the true spirit of the Constitution, lest an apparent acquiescence in the system of protecting duties should be drawn into precedent, do, in the name of the Commonwealth of South Carolina, claim to enter upon the Journals of the [U.S.] Senate, their protest against it as unconstitutional, oppressive, and unjust.
Postscript
After Calhoun resigned as vice president, he was free to devote his time to the pursuit of tariff nullification. But just before his resignation, President Andrew Jackson signed into law another tariff, the Tariff of 1832. This compromise tariff received the support of most northerners and half of the southerners in Congress. The reductions were too little for South Carolina, however.
A state convention was held in November, 1832, at which time it passed The Ordinance of Nullification, declaring the Tariff of 1828 and 1832 null and void within the state borders of South Carolina, beginning on February 1, 1833. Thus began the “Nullification Crisis,” leading to a proclamation by President Andrew Jackson on December 10, 1832, which threatened to send government ground troops to enforce the tariffs. In the face of the military threat, and following a Congressional revision of the law which lowered the tariff, South Carolina repealed the ordinance on March 15, 1833.
RALEIGH, N.C., Dec. 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Capital Square, one of the nation’s leading sponsors of tax-advantaged real estate investments and an active developer and manager of housing communities, announced today the topping out of a 20-story Class A multifamily tower at 320 W. South Street in the Warehouse District of Raleigh, North Carolina within a qualified opportunity zone.
“This 20-story, trophy multifamily tower is Capital Square’s crowning achievement in Raleigh,” said Louis Rogers, founder and co-chief executive officer of Capital Square. “Capital Square is pleased to be a part of something bigger than ourselves – the transformation of downtown Raleigh.”
Located at the intersection of the Boylan Heights neighborhood, Dorothea Dix Park and downtown Raleigh, 320 W. South Street will be one of only a select few luxury rental housing communities in the downtown submarket. The project includes 297 apartment homes, consisting of studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom units, along with 10,500+ square feet of ground-floor retail space and an adjacent, standalone parking structure with over 400 spaces. Onsite amenities will include a resort-style swimming pool, rooftop lounge, coworking space and state-of-the-art fitness center.
The apartment community is within easy walking distance of multiple downtown entertainment, bars and restaurant options, as well as the Red Hat Amphitheater and Raleigh Convention Center. Meanwhile, the property’s location, adjacent to U.S. 70, offers outstanding access to the Research Triangle and North Carolina’s well-known educational institutions.
“Capital Square is proud to mark this important milestone in the development of 320 West South Street, where residents of this elegant property will enjoy the finest amenities and spectacular views of the downtown Raleigh skyline and Red Hat Amphitheater,” said Whit Huffman, co-chief executive officer. “Perhaps more importantly, this is an important step in the continuing transformation of the Raleigh Warehouse District into a vital and thriving 24-hour neighborhood, which will be accelerated by the arrival of hundreds of families who will make 320 West South Street and the surrounding neighborhood their home.”
Capital Square has partnered with JDAVIS Architects as building architect, W. M. Jordan Company as general contractor and York Properties as the retail leasing agent for the property. The design team also includes Architecture Firm as interiors designer and EDSA as landscape designer.
Development of 320 West South Street has been funded by Capital Square’s sixth qualified opportunity zone fund, CSRA Opportunity Zone Fund VI, LLC. More recently, Capital Square launched CSRA Opportunity Zone Fund VII, LLC to fund the development of a luxury multifamily development in the Scott’s Addition neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia, and CSRA Opportunity Zone Fund VIII, LLC to help finance the construction of a Class A apartment community adjacent to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.
Capital Square’s opportunity zone funds have initiated in excess of $590 million in development value to-date.
Opportunity zones were created to stimulate long-term private investments in low-income urban and rural communities nationwide. Conceived as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, opportunity zone funds are intended to help foster economic growth by providing tax benefits to incentivize private investments in designated opportunity zones.
Since its formation in 2012, Capital Square has raised more than $3 billion in equity from investors for its tax-advantaged real estate investment offerings. The company has consistently ranked as one of the leading sponsors of Delaware statutory trust (DST) investment programs for investors seeking the advantages of Internal Revenue Code Section 1031 exchanges and is also an active sponsor of qualified opportunity zone funds, development LLC’s and Capital Square Apartment REIT, a real estate investment trust that invests in multifamily communities throughout the Southeast.
About Capital Square
Capital Square is a vertically integrated national real estate firm specializing in tax-advantaged real estate investments, including Delaware statutory trusts for Section 1031 exchanges, qualified opportunity zone funds for tax deferral and exclusion and a real estate investment trust (REIT). In recent years the company has become an active developer of mixed-use multifamily properties in the southeastern U.S., with eight current projects totaling approximately 2,000 apartment units with a total development cost in excess of $590 million. Since 2012, Capital Square has completed more than $7.8 billion in transaction volume. Capital Square’s related entities provide a range of services, including due diligence, acquisition, loan sourcing, property/asset management and disposition, for a growing number of high-net-worth investors, private equity firms, family offices and institutional investors. Since 2017, Capital Square has been recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in the nation for seven consecutive years. In 2017, 2018 and 2020, the company was also ranked on Richmond BizSense’s list of fastest growing companies. Additionally, Capital Square was listed by Virginia Business on their “Best Places to Work in Virginia” report in 2019 and their “Fantastic 50” reports in 2019 and 2020. In 2023, Capital Square was recognized by the Richmond Times-Dispatch as one of the region’s “Top Work Places.” To learn more, visit www.CapitalSq.com.
Disclaimer: Securities offered through WealthForge Securities, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Capital Square and WealthForge Securities, LLC are separate entities. There are material risks associated with investing in DST properties and real estate securities including illiquidity, tenant vacancies, general market conditions and competition, lack of operating history, interest rate risks, the risk of new supply coming to market and softening rental rates, general risks of owning/operating commercial and multifamily properties, short term leases associated with multifamily properties, financing risks, potential adverse tax consequences, general economic risks, development risks, long hold periods, and potential loss of the entire investment principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Potential cash flow, returns and appreciation are not guaranteed. IRC Section 1031 is a complex tax concept; consult your legal or tax professional regarding the specifics of your particular situation. This is not a solicitation or an offer to see any securities. Please read the Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) in its entirety, paying careful attention to the risk section prior to investing. Private placements are speculative. Diversification does not guarantee profits or protect against losses.
SOURCE Capital Square
By Mark A Leon
Let us begin this journey at Honeysuckle Rose, which is located at 237 Fishburne Street, Charleston, SC 29403, not at the beginning, but the conclusion of the evening. Wine curation liaison and sommelier Shane Meszaros is leading the room with a toast, not to the bride and groom, but to the culinary family he has chosen to celebrate life with.
Each night a new set of patrons become the guests of honor to this 3-hour family-themed exploration into the art of food and wine. As culinary, wine and hospitality teams, led by owners Kelleanne and Ryan Jones orchestrate a dance choreographed from the front to the back of the house, guests are educated and served up the finest in local and international cuisine and libations.
From the welcome to the final toast, Honeysuckle Rose offers one of the most unique and fabulous experiences, not just in Charleston, but the world.
Let us be transparent as we paint the canvas of your dining event.
Expect the unexpected
You will first find yourself in an intimate setting of about 30 guests. One seating of the evening, so please do not be late. Within but a few brief moments, the intimacy becomes a family affair. Like a musical act from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, you will be serenaded with a conversational version of “Be Our Guest” until stranger becomes friend; friend becomes family.
My favorite thing to do is host a dinner party, whether it’s a last-minute gathering amongst our closest friends or an elaborate production with 20 or 30 familiar and new faces. I truly feel like I’m hosting a dinner party every single night; how lucky am I? – Kellyanne Jones, Owner and front of the house lead
For this Thursday night, the culinary team led by Executive Chef Ryan Jones, engineered a nine-course meal that included:
Chef Ryan has worked with world renowned chefs and culinary directors throughout the US and when asked about his Charleston team, he said, “We have developed some rising stars that have helped us build a dynamic culinary experience. With such a unique concept it takes effort from the entire team to show our guest what Honeysuckle is.”
A Dining Transformation
As the night unfolded, strangers become friends as shared experiences flowed beyond the individual tables to the collective narrative of the group. During one of his food education breaks, culinary director Italo “Tito” Marino, who missed a calling in stand-up comedy, offered an open invitation to enjoy the music and dance.
This setting created a safe harbor to be yourself, whether that is refined or free-spirited and at moments, we found ourselves cheering for the staff as we evolved into a sense of belonging. The décor and artwork throughout will support this feeling of a creative marriage of food, music, art and style.
In a world surrounded by the challenges of uncertainty and negative stigmas, Honeysuckle Rose Café surrounds you with compliments, support, and love.
The evening becomes much more than an elegant dining experience; it becomes an adventure into a world of connection.
What separates this experience from any other in the Charleston food community?
It’s more like a ticketed event; dinner and a show.” We love the wow factor; it’s not like most tasting menu restaurants. Fine dining without pretense. – Kellyanne and Ryan Jones
Grooming young talent in culinary arts
Charleston, South Carolina has catapulted itself into the ranks of one of the most sought-after culinary scenes in the world offering a tapestry of international and local flavors carefully curated by the finest chefs in the country.
To a patron, who may only see one layer of the experience, Honeysuckle Rose goes out of their way to remind you of the family that makes every night possible. Like the band introductions at the conclusion of a great concert or the stage bow of a Broadway show, Shane Meszaros took time to recognize all the people in the front and back of the house that worked tirelessly to make our experience a wonderful fantasy.
Still he took this one step further. With a heartfelt message of love, he recognized the young talent (some not even of legal drinking age) and foreshadowed a future of success in the hospitality world as well as a reminder of the expertise and passion of the seasoned leaders. He gave a message of honor and respect; hope and support to these young talents who may be the next generation of great Charleston chefs. Though the words change each night, the authenticity of the comments remains.
As we transitioned toward the latter portion of the evening, Shane inspired the guests with these words, representative of a best man speech that would later be remembered as legendary:
I would like to take this opportunity to give credit where it is more than due. As long as I have worked in this industry, I have seen the staff in the front of the house receive the vast majority of praise first hand and I would like to personally thank all of the individuals who make an experience like this possible.
A common phrase used in fine dining is the French term ‘Mis En Place’. It translates to a place for everything and everything in its place. It is a crucial element of success in every serious restaurant endeavor. In my career I have yet to see someone take as much pride in this responsibility as Abe. (Pronounced Ah-Bee). He came to us without restaurant experience and has taken it upon himself to learn how to set up his coworkers for success. Not only that, he now helps to prepare pastries, savory courses and non-alcoholic beverages. Abe is involved with every part of the production and presentation from this establishment. We are lucky he took a chance on us, and not the other way around.
Luke is another young man who is critical to what we strive to deliver every day. He is a third generation cook in his family who is striving to further his career in the service industry. He spent time in the Air Force before turning to this career path and his service is most evident when there are groups of people focused on the same task. He can lead when it is necessary and will follow clear direction to perfection. His ability to execute precise techniques under strict time constraints is a rare but essential talent in fine dining.
Our other young chef to be is named Sky. She is our youngest member of our team at 20. However I would like to stress that she isn’t talented for a 20-year-old, she is talented for any person that has worked in a kitchen. Every day she is the first to ask how to learn a skill that she has not been exposed to yet. While some people shy away from new challenges she thrives on the opportunity. She takes criticism well and rarely makes the same mistake twice. Her pride in her work is so close to her sense of self I am certain that she will be a chef of her own one day.
Emily, our Guest Relations Manager, is the newest addition to our team. She has known the Jones’ since they lived in Connecticut and she was babysitting the Jones’ three children. Emily has worked at every level of the service industry and knows the business inside and out. This enables her to anticipate guest needs before they arrive. The special feeling guests have is because Emily makes sure each person has a customized experience. Not only is she organized, but when the chaos of restaurant life arises, she is cool, calm and collected. Her unflappable resolve and kind disposition are the gold standard of hospitality. Through her efforts she elevates both guest and staff experiences.
The talents of all of these individuals would not have come together without the leadership of our owners. Kelleanne leads the front of the house team with confidence in a way that makes it look easy. When she walks through the door, she takes inventory of where the restaurant is, brings the team together to accomplish what we need and then sets the standard of attitude for the evening. Quick to make a joke and get people smiling, she knows that our operation works best when we are having fun. Like any great restaurant leader she walks the line between giving us a hard time when we lose focus and getting us to loosen up when we get too down on ourselves. Personally, I am at ease knowing she is there every night. Her ability to share her vision of hospitality is evident across all three of the restaurants in Free Reign. Her heart and her joy of creating memorable experiences is what all restaurateurs should strive to have.
Ryan Jones is our rock in the kitchen. In Connecticut his tasting menu restaurant changed the entire menu offerings every single day. To execute that endeavor is a monumental achievement, but to also have the creative capacity for it every night is unbelievable. Ryan must know how large of a task this is, because his patience while teaching those around him is admirable. He is constantly slowing down, leading by example and then holding his team accountable around him. His leadership is unquestioned, and his expectations increase as that talent around him grows. The communication and teamwork of Kelleanne and Ryan Jones is the glue that holds together a landmark restaurant and an amazing team around them.
When you think about an immersive experience that will challenge you palate, warm your senses and exhilarate your love of food, Honeysuckle Rose, will leave you beyond satisfied.
According to a new Meta-Gallup survey, one out of every four adults has reported feeling very or fairly lonely. With 25 years of combined experience in executive leadership, coaching and development, Charleston trailblazers Gillian Zettler and Chandler Frisbie are on a mission to inject a sense of belonging and connection into their communities through the launch of their brand-new venture, The Drop In.
“The Drop In is a platform for diverse experiences and ideas that encourage human connection,” says Zettler. “We’re purposefully kicking things off with the inauguration of our ‘Happier Hours’ series- joyful in-person events, rooted in movement and music, that offer opportunities for mindfulness and attention in the midst of life’s many obstacles.”
The first of The Drop In’s Happier Hours will take place on Saturday, Jan. 13, from 4:00-7:30 p.m. at Festival Hall. Guests can expect a performance from Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and poet Mary Lambert, along with a 50-minute movement from FORWARD__Space, a dance-based workout founded by renowned choreographer Kristin Sudeikis. Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, aimed at supporting and removing the stigma around youth mental health, will also be collaborating. Tickets will go on sale Tuesday, Dec. 19 ($45 per person).
“It’s no secret that our nation and our world is facing a raging mental health crisis that has left many of us feeling broken and alone,” shares Frisbie. “Through compassion, curiosity and transparency, our hope through The Drop In is to see our community move, both physically and emotionally, into lighter, more purpose-filled places of belonging.”
Community builder, partnership maker, and team leader, Zettler brings nearly two decades of experience in amplifying people and ideas to her role as Co-Founder of The Drop In. She previously served as the Executive Director & CEO of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, where she spent nearly a decade flexing her creative and business acumen, designing more than 200 programs and events annually. Amongst her many leadership roles, Zettler is also a CHIEF member, lululemon ambassador, Co-Founder of Motivated to Move and Founder of G. Zettler Collective. She was recently inducted into the Liberty Fellowship Class of 2025 and was selected from a pool of more than 400 nominations.
Frisbie, a former Division I softball player at the College of Charleston, has been improving her community’s well-being for over a decade through training college athletes in conditioning and breathwork, serving as a lululemon educator, and inspiring students in her spin, yoga and workout classes. She was previously inducted into South Carolina’s Finest, an organization of influential young professionals supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and was named Charleston’s Best Personal Trainer for 2023 by the Charleston City Paper.
Today, the Charleston International Airport announced that Air Canada will begin daily nonstop service to Toronto, Canada in March 2024
In a post on Instagram:
Just in time for #NationalMapleSyrupDay—we’re launching daily nonstop service to Toronto, Canada (@torontopearson), beginning in March 2024 with @AirCanada! Talk about sweet. 🙌🍁
Tickets are now on sale. After your short flight to Canada’s largest city, you’ll be immersed in picturesque views, plenty of sports, and renowned art districts. Who’s ready to have international flights back?!
Click HERE to Book your flight today!
WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and member of the Committee on Foreign Relations, issued the following statement after final adoption of the Conference Report to accompany the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024:
“Whether it’s the border crisis here at home or our adversaries flagrantly attacking our troops and allies around the globe, we’ve witnessed first-hand the dangerous repercussions of President Biden’s weak leadership on the world stage. This year’s NDAA takes critical steps to restore American leadership, bolster our southern border, curb the influence of foreign adversaries like China and Russia and support our brave men and women in uniform and their families.
“South Carolina serves as a vital training ground for and home to so many of the selfless Americans who serve this nation. From the Low Country to the Upstate, this bill invests in South Carolina’s military facilities and supports our critical defense industry, ensuring our state continues to serve an important role in our national security at home and abroad.”
Provisions in the FY2024 NDAA championed by Senator Scott include:
South Carolina specific provisions included in the FY2024 NDAA include:
Ansonborough Inn Will be Reimagined as The Ansonborough Charleston to Bring Old World Charm and Modern Comfort to Charleston’s Historic District
CHARLESTON, S.C. (December 13, 2023) – Ansonborough Inn, a AAA Four Diamond hotel tucked away in the heart of Charleston’s historic downtown district, today announced that it is undergoing an extensive renovation and repositioning set to relaunch as The Ansonborough Charleston in spring 2024. Drawing from the hotel’s natural exuberance and wonders of what was once Charles Town, The Ansonborough Charleston will stand as an homage to the city’s rich history, proudly embodying the vibrant spirit of Charleston’s oldest neighborhood.
Developed by Continental Hospitality Group and managed by Wright Investments, Inc., the boutique 45-room property will feature revitalized indoor and outdoor spaces, including an expanded neighborhood bar and lounge offering artisanal cocktails, beers, wines and light bites and a new beautiful rooftop garden with generous open seating areas appointed with local plant life and fireplaces perfect for guests and small social gatherings. Moreover, the property will boast a “Poker Room” discreetly nestled beyond a secret bookcase enclave – paying homage to the lore that Lord Anson became the rightful owner of the Ansonborough neighborhood after winning a high-profile poker game.
“We love the Ansonborough neighborhood and community and are honored to have the opportunity to augment downtown Charleston’s rich tapestry of culture, history and experiential elements. It was imperative that we pay homage to the hotel’s historic roots infusing a sense of continuity that transcends eras and trends,” said Larry Wright Jr., president and CEO of Wright Investments, Inc. “The re-imagination will strike a balance between historical reverence and contemporary allure, and the captivating heritage of the Ansonborough district.”
Complete with a genuine invitation to explore and experience the heart of Charleston, the new Ansonborough Charleston will foster a sense of belonging from the moment guests arrive. Built as a three-story stationer’s warehouse circa 1901, guest rooms are vast and spacious offering 450 to 750 square feet of comfort. Lined with palmettos, crepe myrtles and local flora and outfitted with exposed heart pine beams, local fire red brick, historic antiques and a vast collection of original artwork, the hotel’s storied past will echo throughout the renovation, balancing historic and timeless charm with its updated elegance and modern comfort.
According to Adam Valente, president of Continental Hospitality Group, “the relaunched Ansonborough brings a unique experience to the discerning Charleston traveler, especially those seeking to discover the most valuable of Charleston’s historical, art, culinary, and cultural treasures. Our guest promise is to provide a first-class luxury inn and an authentically Charleston cultural experience throughout their stay.”
“We’ve brought together an inimitable cast of collaborators to create a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience where the building’s historic characteristics will be preserved while simultaneously providing fresh aesthetics and enhanced amenities and experiences,” said General Manager Carrie Huston. “With a fusion of refined sophistication and approachable warmth, this reimagination has been designed to resonate with younger generations seeking an authentic, immersive Charleston experience.”
The hotel will remain open throughout the renovation and debut to guests as The Ansonborough Charleston in spring 2024. For more information and for reservations, please visit www.ansonboroughinn.com.
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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.
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