Lowcountry

The Huntington National Bank Announces Banking Partnership with Charleston Southern University

Collaboration underscores shared commitment to education and community impact

CHARLESTON, SC – Today, The Huntington National Bank announced a new partnership with Charleston Southern University to provide strategic financing, institutional banking services and access to student banking solutions. Through this collaboration, Huntington Bank will also enhance veteran programming, provide needs-based scholarship funding, and a range of initiatives designed to enrich both the campus and the surrounding community. 

“We’re proud to partner with Charleston Southern University, an institution that shares our commitment to service, integrity and community,” said Trent Holland, senior managing director. “This collaboration goes beyond traditional banking. It’s about creating real impact – supporting students and veterans, expanding financial access, and strengthening the greater Charleston community together.”

Huntington Bank provides personal, wealth, business and commercial banking products and services to customers throughout the Carolinas. Huntington will provide more retail banking services to customers by adding 55 branches and hiring more than 350 colleagues across North and South Carolina over the next three years. 

“At Huntington, we believe strong communities are built through meaningful relationships and long-term investment,” said Heath Campbell, executive managing director. “Our partnership with Charleston Southern University demonstrates our commitment to the Lowcountry and developing future leaders.”

Charleston Southern University President B. Keith Faulkner believes this new partnership takes the university to the next level of excellence. 

“As the only Christian university in the South Carolina Lowcountry, it is our goal to foster continued growth—both in population and in reputation—through the intentional stewardship of our human capital and financial resources. We recognize that developing servant leaders who love God and love others requires strategic partnerships rooted in shared values. Huntington is a vital part of this voyage, and we are grateful for their support and commitment as we solidify and advance the university’s future,” Faulkner said. 

Huntington continues to expand its reach throughout South Carolina, building partnerships that are aligned with its purpose to make people’s lives better, help businesses thrive and strengthen the communities it serves.  

Explore Huntington’s banking services at Huntington.com.

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About Huntington

Huntington Bancshares Incorporated (Nasdaq: HBAN) is a $208 billion asset regional bank holding company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.  Founded in 1866, The Huntington National Bank and its affiliates provide consumers, small and middle‐market businesses, corporations, municipalities, and other organizations with a comprehensive suite of banking, payments, wealth management, and risk management products and services. Huntington operates 971 branches in 13 states, with certain businesses operating in extended geographies. Visit Huntington.com for more information.

About Charleston Southern University

Founded in 1964 in the heart of the Charleston metro area, Charleston Southern University is a private, Christian liberal arts university. With an enrollment approaching 4,000 students, CSU offers more than 80 academically rigorous and faith-integrated undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Charleston Southern has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report nationally for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs and Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans. Students can learn online or in a traditional classroom setting, all while discovering their pathway to purpose. 

Photo Credit: Charleston Southern University

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MT. PLEASANT, S.C. —The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, a dynamic organization inspiring leadership and character development through the Medal of Honor’s core principles, is pleased to announce Pepe Carreras as its new president and CEO. In this role, Carreras will develop and recommend plans, policies and strategies to advance the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership’s vision of cultivating leaders who embody the highest ideals of character and civic virtue.

“We are thrilled to welcome Pepe as the new president and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership,” says Harvey Schiller, chairman of the Board of Directors for the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership. “His history of strong leadership, meaningful collaboration and passion for making a positive impact on everything he touches makes him the ideal person to lead us into the next chapter of our organization.”

As president and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, Carreras will oversee the organization’s strategic plan, education platform, operations, development, human resources, marketing and fundraising.

“I’m honored to join the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership as president and CEO,” says Pepe Carreras. “I’m incredibly excited to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team. This organization has a strong foundation and a clear purpose, and I look forward to building on that success to drive meaningful impact and lasting value for our community, our partners and the people we serve.” 

Carreras is a proven leader with more than two decades of experience at the intersection of business strategy, education and civic engagement. He most recently served as president and CEO of Graduate School USA, where he led educational innovation, data optimization and strategic initiatives across private, nonprofit and government sectors.

Additionally, he served as a firefighter for a decade. Carreras credits that chapter of his life with instilling the core values he carries forward today: courage under pressure, selfless service and integrity in action. His frontline service combined with his years of executive experience position him uniquely to lead the Center in amplifying the values of the Medal of Honor across the country.

“I’m eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work,” says Carreras. “There’s a tremendous amount of momentum here, and I’m committed to listening, learning and collaborating with everyone from day one. Together, we’ll build on what’s already been achieved and set course for an even brighter future.”

Under Carreras’s leadership, the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership will continue to expand its curriculum and outreach to students, educators, corporate teams and public servants nationwide. From immersive experiences to digital learning tools, the Center’s programming equips individuals with the mindset, skills and moral compass to lead with character and purpose.

To learn more about Pepe Carreras, visit https://mohcenterforleadership.org/bio/pepe-carreras/. To learn more about the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, visit https://mohcenterforleadership.org/. 

About the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership

The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership’s mission is to inspire, develop, empower and challenge leaders through the values embodied by our country’s Medal of Honor Recipients. With leadership education opportunities that include fellowship programs and onsite trainings, as well as a nationwide digital educational platform and audience-curated visitor experiences, Americans of all ages, backgrounds and locations will learn leadership values of courage, sacrifice, citizenship, integrity, commitment and patriotism to inspire them to transform lives, shape the future, and carry forward the best traditions of what it means to be an American. For more information, visit www.mohcenterforleadership.org.

Local and international partnerships drive the renowned quality steak and seafood that makes Burwell’s a best-in-class dining option in Charleston

By Mark A. Leon

Step off Market Street and into Burwell’s Stoneware Grill, and the first thing that hits you is the irresistible aroma of steak. Just past the corridor to the host stand, the open fire kitchen fills the air with the scent of freshly aged and wagyu steaks—an instant hook for any carnivore.

Before you’re even greeted, the décor draws you in with a sense of comfort and space. To the right, a long bar evokes the warmth of a small-town watering hole—perfect for a glass of wine and a friendly chat with the bartender. To the left, the open dining area features rustic wooden art and a front-row view of the kitchen’s culinary performance. Beyond the bar, a stairwell leads to two spacious seating areas ideal for groups and private events.

The interior design is essential to the Burwell’s experience. By blending historic roots with thoughtful spacing, guests are transported to a Charleston of yesteryear, yet can still enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

A Dining Experience Built on Relationships

To truly appreciate Burwell’s, it helps to understand the relationships and local partnerships that shape its unique formula:

• Seafood is sourced from CudaCo, a partnership locals consider the gold standard.
• Pastry Chef Mark “Swanky” Heywood-Washington and Executive Chef Jonathan Kaldes have an 18-year friendship dating back to culinary school—Jonathan is even godparent to Mark’s children.
• General Manager Don and Bar Manager Tim have been best friends since seventh grade.
• White Sturgeon Caviar comes from a secret spot in Parma, Italy, with the location kept confidential to prevent poaching.
• Menu covers are crafted locally by Boysterous Couture on Broad Street, underscoring Burwell’s commitment to supporting small businesses.
• Burwell’s is a family-owned Charleston institution that’s thrived for 13 years.
• Unlike most steakhouses, Burwell’s offers both à la carte and composed entrée presentations, including sides.
  

“When guests come to Burwell’s, they expect a comfortable, welcoming experience that’s increasingly rare these days. Our space is approachable for a steakhouse, yet our execution is firmly fine dining. The creativity and quality of our dishes are elevated by our knowledgeable, attentive staff. We’ve cultivated a family-like culture here, and guests truly feel like they’re being welcomed into our home—with warm smiles and a genuine effort to connect, all aimed at creating memories that last,” explained Don Goodemote, General Manager.

He went on to highlight the role of staff loyalty in Burwell’s continued success: “We rarely experience turnover, and many of our team members have been with us for three years or more. Jonathan, our Executive Chef, has been here four years; Tim, our Bartender and Bar Manager, for six; I’ve been here for seven years myself, and Swanky, our Pastry Chef, has been with us since day one—thirteen years. The longevity of our team is a true testament to the strong, positive culture we’ve created.”

Unforgettable Flavors and Service

We began with the Charred Octopus, described as “vibrant” by both our server and the executive chef. Prepared with lemon oil, pomegranate molasses, arugula, and beet ricotta, each bite was a palate-awakening experience—one of the most memorable starters on the peninsula.

Next came the White Sturgeon Caviar, served with crème fraiche, chives, and tomato. You can savor the caviar solo or balance its briny punch with the accompaniments. As a rare treat, only the General Manager or Executive Chef delivers the caviar tableside, making the moment feel special.

Steak is the star here, offered in three categories: Wet-Aged, Dry-Aged, and Wagyu. We shared the 14 oz Black Opal Wagyu Strip from Australia (medium rare)—a perfect portion for two. To elevate our meal, Tim, the head bartender, personally assisted with our wine selection, exemplifying the attentive, approachable service.
Craving seafood but not a full entrée, we added lump crab Oscar and broccolini to our steak. Both were exceptional and highly recommended as accompaniments.

Seafood lovers will find three standout entrées, each generous enough to share:

• Market Fish, currently paired with Jimmy Red Corn heirloom grits, broccolini, and vincotto
• Lump Crab & Shrimp Pasta with Mancini bucatini, red onion, and sherry cream sauce
• Seared Sea Scallops with farro, roasted rainbow carrots, and parsnip purée
  

A Sweet Finale

Dessert was Swanky’s “Gentleman Pirate’s Banana Pudding,” paired with a fruit-forward Chenin Blanc. Layers of fresh bananas, vanilla crème diplomat, and Biscoff cookies atop Mille Crepe, finished with cinnamon buttercream, rum-cane syrup, cookie crumbles, white chocolate pearls, and caramelized bananas—an unforgettable ending to a remarkable meal.

Burwell’s Stonefire Grill isn’t just a steakhouse. It’s a testament to the power of family, partnership, and local pride—a place where every detail and relationship enhances the experience.

There is something special here

For the last 13 years Burwell’s has created a luxury dining experience with an approachable comfort, attentive service and a warmth that can’t quite be explained in words but felt deeply.  If you are fortunate to have a 5-star meal, meet the owner, executive chef, assistant manager and bar manager in one night, that is not only a complete dining experience but a complete day.  That is why we still have been thinking about our meal at Burwell’s.

What was so striking is that Burwell’s one of the few restaurants we have dined with on the peninsula and in the tri-county that have not only grown but truly elevated the dining experience—without relying on traditional advertising or many strategic partnerships. It’s all been driven by word of mouth, exceptional food, and consistently memorable service.

Beloved Charleston landmark and its surrounding landscape recognized for their ecological and cultural significance

Charleston, SC, July 22, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, announced today that the future Angel Oak Preserve has been officially designated a Community Forest by the Old-Growth Forest Network. This national honor places the preserve among a select group of publicly accessible places with ecological and cultural significance. The designation affirms that the Angel Oak and its surrounding forest are local treasures and landscapes of national importance, worthy of permanent protection, reverence, and celebration of their ability to nurture the relationship between people and place. 

The future Angel Oak Preserve is the first to receive the Community Forest designation in South Carolina. Two other South Carolina sites, St. Phillips Island and Congaree National Park, are areas recognized by the Old-Growth Forest network under its flagship designation for protected, publicly accessible old-growth forests. The future Angel Oak Preserve will encompass not only the iconic, centuries-old Angel Oak tree but also the surrounding maritime forest, which provides habitat for diverse wildlife and serves as a natural buffer in a rapidly developing region. The 44-acre site, which is anticipated to begin creation in 2026,  is the result of a decade-long collaborative effort between Lowcountry Land Trust, the City of Charleston, and many community members and partners to ensure this landscape remains protected forever.

“This recognition affirms what so many in Charleston have long known: the Angel Oak is more than just a protected landscape; it is a promise to future generations,” said Samantha Siegel, Angel Oak Preserve director at Lowcountry Land Trust. “Being recognized by the Old-Growth Forest Network affirms our commitment to letting this forest thrive, protected forever, as a place of natural wonder, community connection, and historical remembrance.

The Old-Growth Forest Network works to connect people with forests across the U.S. that will be protected from logging and preserved in their natural condition. By designating the future Angel Oak Preserve as a Community Forest, the organization highlights the site’s vital role as both an ecological sanctuary and a living archive of cultural memory.

“The plans for the Angel Oak Preserve perfectly embody what the Old-Growth Forest Network recognizes and honors through our Community Forest designation: a place that is protected, cared for, and shared through the investment of its community, offering an opportunity for people to be immersed in a beautiful forest whether they come from near or far,” said Dr. Sarah Adloo, executive director at Old-Growth Forest Network. “Without this kind of dedicated effort, forests like those surrounding the Angel Oak are far too easily lost when they are thought of as blank space on a map rather than part of the ecological and cultural fabric of the surrounding communities.”

While not yet considered an old-growth forest, the Preserve holds the potential to regenerate into one over time and become an enduring model of conservation, stewardship, and community care. Once completed, the Angel Oak Preserve will feature walking trails, immersive experiences, and a more meaningful connection to the ecologically and historically significant site. 

Click here for more information about the Angel Oak Preserve, donate, or to receive updates.

For more information about Network Forests, visit the Old-Growth Forest Network. 

Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTrust on social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.

ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST

Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s coastal ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres of land since its founding in 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful local land trusts in the United States. Its work includes the stewardship of iconic public places, such as the Angel Oak Preserve, and privately owned land throughout the Lowcountry. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.

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CASTING CALL🎥
Role of Captain Jones 🎬

Production Title: The Black Angels
Production Type: Independent Series
Genre: Crime Drama / Urban Thriller
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
Union Status: Non-Union
Compensation: non paid IMdb credits only

⸻

ROLE: CAPTAIN JONES (Male, Age 40-55, Any Ethnicity)

Captain Jones is a seasoned, hard-nosed police officer with decades of experience under his belt. He’s sharp, methodical, and haunted by the corruption he’s witnessed both inside and outside the force. Now, he’s determined to build a case against The Black Angels—a once-revolutionary community group that has devolved into a ruthless drug syndicate.

Jones is not just a cop—he’s a man fighting against the erosion of justice. His approach is quiet but deadly, always calculating. He believes in law and order, but the deeper he digs, the more his own values are tested.

Character Traits:
• Stoic, intense, and principled
• Veteran of the police force with strong moral convictions
• Emotionally restrained but internally conflicted
• Voice of reason in a corrupt system
• May carry a dark past or personal vendetta

Looking For:
• Strong dramatic acting chops
• Ability to portray complex emotion with subtlety
• Commanding screen presence
• Previous experience in law enforcement or military roles is a plus (but not required)

⸻

🎥 Audition Details:

📨 To Submit:
Send headshot, & resume to:
📧 dariusjackson354@gmail.com
Sovablackmusic@gmail.com
Subject Line: Captain Jones Submission

$23.2 million investment will create 24 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Brawo USA, Inc. (Brawo USA), part of Brawo Group and the Holding Umberto Gnutti (HUG) Group, global leaders in the brass and non-ferrous metals industry, today announced a $23.2 million expansion of its Laurens County operations. The investment will create 24 new jobs.

Brawo USA specializes in the forging and precision machining of brass and other non-ferrous metals, supplying key components for valves and fittings in the plumbing, gas and industrial sectors.

Located at 499 Hunter Industrial Park Road in Laurens, the company will add 30,000 square feet to its existing facility and invest in updated machinery and advanced manufacturing equipment. This expansion will increase production capacity, enhance technological capabilities and strengthen Brawo Group’s footprint in the North American market.

Operations are expected to be online in 2026. Individuals interested in joining the Brawo USA team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $250,000 Rural Infrastructure Fund grant to Laurens County to assist with the costs of building improvements.

QUOTES

“This expansion is a testament to our long-term commitment to Laurens County and to strengthening the U.S. manufacturing footprint of Brawo Group. We are investing not only in equipment, but in people, skills and the future of our industry.” -Brawo USA General Manager Silvio Fappani

“Brawo USA’s expansion announcement is a clear indication of the company’s confidence in Laurens County and South Carolina. This $23.2 million investment will add to the strength of our state’s thriving manufacturing industry and have a significant impact in the Laurens County community.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina has the robust economy to support the continued growth and success of manufacturing companies like Brawo USA. We are proud to see the company reaffirming its commitment to Laurens County with this expansion and celebrate Brawo USA’s legacy in our state.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Laurens County continues to be a place where business not only locates but thrives for years to come, as evidenced by Brawo USA’s new expansion. Brawo USA has been a longtime partner in our community, and we are excited about their new chapter. We wish them much success as they continue to grow.” -Laurens County Council Chairman Jeff Carroll

Source: Office of the Governor – South Carolina

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$75 million investment will create 60 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Rolls-Royce Solutions America Inc. (Rolls-Royce), a provider of off-highway engines and complete power generation systems, today announced it is expanding its mtu engine manufacturing operations in Aiken County. The company’s $75 million investment will create 60 new jobs. 

With more than 110 years of experience, Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division manufactures and services propulsion engines and energy systems under the mtu brand. The company’s products include high-speed combustion engines and emergency power systems used in data centers, hospitals, universities and municipalities.

Located at 660 Bettis Academy Road in Graniteville, the two-phase facility expansion will accommodate increased production volume for Rolls-Royce’s mtu Series 4000 engines to meet growing demand for backup power in the data center industry.

Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of 2026, with expanded operations expected to be online in July 2027. Individuals interested in joining the Rolls-Royce team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES

“Today’s announcement underscores Rolls-Royce’s commitment to the U.S. market and demonstrates our robust manufacturing capabilities. We are proud to support America’s growing demand for reliable, domestically made energy systems that strengthen our nation’s energy independence and security. With more than half the world’s hyperscale data centers located here in the U.S., this will continue to be a key growth market for many years to come.” –Rolls-Royce North America CEO Adam Riddle

“Rolls-Royce Solutions America Inc.’s expansion in Aiken County further positions South Carolina as a leader in advanced manufacturing. This investment and the 60 jobs it will bring represent a big win for the community, and we are proud of the success Rolls-Royce has found in our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“Today’s announcement reinforces Rolls-Royce Solutions America Inc.’s commitment to doing business in South Carolina and contributing to our world-class manufacturing base. We are excited to celebrate Rolls-Royce’s ongoing growth and $75 million expansion in Aiken County.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“I’m pleased that Rolls-Royce is announcing this critical expansion at its Sage Mill Industrial Park location. The investment of $75 million and 60 new jobs is a welcome addition to Aiken County’s industrial base. Rolls-Royce is an outstanding corporate citizen, and the Aiken County Council is glad that we’re maintaining our healthy manufacturing environment.” -Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker

“We congratulate Rolls-Royce on this exciting $75 million expansion of their Aiken County facilities. For 15 years, they’ve been a vital part of our region’s growth, and this new investment — bringing 60 high-quality jobs — underscores their continued leadership in supporting the rapidly growing demand for backup power in the global data center industry.” -Western SC Economic Development Partnership Board Chairman Gary Stooksbury

Source: Office of the Governor – South Carolina

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We are thrilled to announce the newest member of the celebrated King Street shopping experience, Mugsy. This boutique retail store officially opened its doors on Friday, July 18, 2025.

Charleston marks the sixth U.S. location.

Here is what you need to know:

• What: Mugsy – Men’s clothing and accessories boutique shop
• Where: 342 King Street – Charleston, South Carolina
• Grand Opening: Friday, July 18, 2025
• Follow on Instagram
• Official Website
• Hours: Monday – Sunday 10 AM – 7 PM

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Outer Banks Season 5
KIAWAH ISLAND, SC
TUESDAY, JULY 22

-Call time WILL be early morning – most likely around 5-5:30 AM
-ALWAYS plan on a 12 hour day when filming

KOOK GOLF SPECTATOR
All genders, All races, Ages 21 & up

Background Actor Pay Rate – $132/12

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Submit via email stewartcastingbg@gmail
.com
Subject line of email should be SPECTATOR 7/22

If you have submitted within the past 2 weeks you do not need to send photos & info again, unless something has changed, Just send us an email stating: SPECTATOR 7/22 in Kiawah Island I AM ON FILE

-Please do not submit unless you are fully available to work with no prior engagements on Tuesday, July 22 in Kiawah Island, SC.

-You must included 2 CURRENT photos of yourself in your submission:
1 headshot framed shoulders up & 1 full body shot
NO professional headshots.
Photos MUST be taken within the last 2 weeks & accurately represent your current look.

NO FILTERS!! NO MIRROR SELFIES, NO CAR SELFIES
NO SUNGLASSES, NO HATS & NO OTHER PEOPLE IN THE PHOTO WITH YOU UNLESS YOU ARE SUBMITTING WITH ANOTHER TO WORK TOGETHER.

PLEASE only send 2 photos unless otherwise specified!

ALL OF THE FOLLOWING MUST BE INCLUDED IN YOUR SUBMISSION ALONG WITH PHOTOS OR YOU WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED:

-NAME-
-PHONE NUMBER-
-AGE-
-HEIGHT-
-WEIGHT-
-SHIRT SIZE-
-PANT SIZE-
-SHOE SIZE-
-COLOR, YEAR, MAKE & MODEL OF VEHICLE-
-CITY, STATE YOU LIVE-
Travel & lodging is NOT paid for by production!

IF NOT LOCAL TO CHARLESTON, SC, PLEASE CONFIRM YOU UNDERSTAND YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAVEL COST

More than 90 organizations and Petco locations participated in the 8th annual statewide adoption event!

SOUTH CAROLINA – Over the course of just 10 days, an incredible 2,416 dogs and cats found loving homes during this year’s Petco Love Pick Me! SC statewide adoption event — bringing the total number of lives saved through the initiative and adoptions to more than 15,000 over the past eight years.

“This event continues to be a statewide movement,” said Abigail Appleton, PMP, CAWA, No Kill South Carolina Project Officer with Charleston Animal Society. “To know that 15,452 pets are now in loving homes thanks to this project is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we work together.”

From June 20–29, every region of South Carolina took part in the lifesaving event, with 91 animal shelters, rescue groups, and Petco locations coming together to create thousands of pet adoption success stories. Families from the Lowcountry to the Upstate opened their hearts and homes, taking advantage of free and low-fee adoptions offered statewide.

“We went into the event with dogs in crates lining our back hallway and so many kittens. We are coming out of it slightly exhausted but with a new sense of hope,” said Allison LaBorde of the SPCA Albrecht Center,

Charleston Animal Society’s No Kill South Carolina initiative, in partnership with Petco Love, powers this annual event to help reduce overcrowding in shelters and shine a spotlight on the thousands of amazing pets waiting to be adopted.

SHELTER SUCCESS STORIES

• Darlington Humane Society saw American Idol Contestant Preston Duffee come in to visit and he left with a new best friend named Ranger. 
• Barnwell County Animal Shelter exceeded their own expectations with 13 cat and 5 dog adoptions. They also microchipped 8 dogs.
• Charleston Animal Society showed a 29% increase in adoptions over the same period last year. 
• At the SPCA Albrecht Center, 3 formerly-malnourished cats rescued from neglect cases, a blind and diabetic cat, and the shelter’s most senior dogs all found homes.
• When Columbia Animal Services received an unexpectedly high number of intakes and several shelter areas closed due to roof repairs, shelter staff feared they would be forced to euthanize pets to make space. But so many adopters stepped up that every pet life was saved.

“This is the kind of impact we strive for – finding loving homes for thousands of adoptable pets,” said Petco Love President, Susanne Kogut. “Every pet adopted is a life saved, and Petco Love Pick Me! SC proves what’s possible when we come together with communities and shelters with one mission: love and lifesaving.”

SPAY NEUTER WEEK RECORD

In addition to adoption specials, the Simon Greer Mobile Spay-Neuter Clinic from Charleston Animal Society traveled the state during the event, providing hundreds of pets with spay/neuter surgeries, microchips, and vaccinations to ensure they were adoption-ready. “This year our team accomplished a record 334 spay-neuter surgeries from shelters in seven different counties,” Appleton said.

Petco locations across South Carolina played a vital role by hosting adoption events and providing new pet families with everything they need—from food and leashes to beds and toys—to get off to a great start.

While the event may be over for this year, the challenge of finding homes for pets this summer continues. “Every shelter in the state continues to operate over-capacity. Summer is always the most challenging time of year, but it truly is the best time of year to adopt, because you and your family will have more time to bond with your new pet,” said Appleton.

About Petco Love
Petco Love is a life-changing nonprofit organization that makes communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier. Since our founding in 1999, we’ve empowered animal welfare organizations by investing nearly $421 million in adoption and other lifesaving efforts. We’ve helped find loving homes for more than 7 million pets in partnership with Petco and organizations nationwide. Our love for pets drives us to lead with innovation, creating tools animal lovers need to reunite lost pets, and lead with passion, inspiring and mobilizing communities and our more than 4,000 animal welfare partners to drive lifesaving change alongside us. Is love calling you? Join us. Visit PetcoLove.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, and LinkedIn to be part of the lifesaving work we lead every day.

About No Kill South Carolina
Led by Charleston Animal Society and powered by Petco Love, No Kill South Carolina has saved over 890,000 animal lives since 2015 by reducing euthanasia rates and promoting adoption and spay-neuter programs. In 2024, South Carolina became a No Kill State, because of the efforts of No Kill South Carolina. Visit NoKillSouthCarolina.org 

About Charleston Animal Society
Since 1874, the mission of Charleston Animal Society has always been the prevention of cruelty to animals.  Recognized as an international model of lifesaving success, the Animal Society focuses on three impacts: ending the unnecessary euthanasia, overpopulation, and cruelty of animals.  Last year, the Animal Society cared for over 35,000 animals, spayed or neutered over 15,000 animals, adopted over 5,000 animals, and taught compassion to over 11,000 children. As South Carolina’s largest lifesaving organization, animal organizations from across the state and beyond seek guidance and support from the Animal Society, whose guiding principle is that it has a disproportionate responsibility to others; if there is an animal in need anywhere that the Animal Society can impact, it will.  With 13 consecutive years of exemplary independent financial audits, the Animal Society remains the top-rated nonprofit organization in South Carolina. For more information, visit CharlestonAnimalSociety.org. 

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