Lowcountry

Lowcountry

Quarry company to invest $450M in six South Carolina counties creating 70 new jobs

January 8, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

Chester County will get a piece of a new $450 million investment from Luck Companies, as the Virginia business grows in South Carolina. The company announced its new quarry plans on Tuesday. They’ll create 70 jobs across six counties. New sites in Chester, Edgefield, Saluda and Spartanburg counties will join expanded ones in Fairfield and Kershaw counties. Luck Companies will invest $93 million in a new Chester County site, adding 25 jobs. It’ll have a quarry and space for agricultural education. Part of the site will be available for economic development. The company announcement didn’t list an address for the Chester County property.

County land records show Luck Stone Corp. owns four properties at nearly 370 acres just north of Lancaster Highway. The site is about halfway between Interstate-77 and downtown Chester. About 90 acres of the project is on a site purchased by Luck Companies to create an agricultural buffer, Chester County Administrator Brian Hester said in a news release from Chester County Economic Development. “This project is expected to lower both aggregate material and construction costs in our community,” Hester said.

The $93 million investment for Chester County is up from nearly $58 million in the original company plans, said county Economic Development Director Robert Long. There will be a 75-acre business park developed, Long said, plus 15 more acres for future economic development. “This will support the development of small- and mid-size industrial and commercial buildings that are greatly needed in our growing community,” Long said. By spanning six counties, the move will be important for an entire region that needs construction materials. “The corridor between Columbia to Charlotte will be well-positioned for aggregate material for decades to come,” said Chris Finn, interim president and CEO of the I-77 Alliance economic development group.

About Luck Companies

A Virginia company founded more than a century ago, Luck Companies produces stone aggregates for construction, engineering and environmental industries. It’s a combination of Luck Stone, Luck Ecosystems and Luck Real Estate Ventures. Luck Companies has more than 500 employees, according to its LinkedIn page. The company has about 30 workers at its South Carolina facilities prior to the new jobs announced Tuesday.

Source: The Herald (Rock Hill)

Lowcountry

The Radical Hotel in Asheville’s River Arts District Reopens Following Hurricane Helene

January 7, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

The Hotel is Now Welcoming Guests For Stays

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Asheville hotel The Radical, located in the city’s River Arts District, is now welcoming guests following recovery from the effects of Hurricane Helene. Housed in a once-abandoned 1920s warehouse that was formerly a cereal factory, The Radical is a boutique hotel and living art installation that debuted in October 2023. The destination for travelers and locals alike has 70 unmistakable guest rooms and suites. Inspired by the River Arts District’s RAD moniker, The Radical brings together a collective of buzzing energy, creative characters and shared experiences designed to inspire all guests to be fearlessly radical. Last week, it was named USA TODAY 10Best’s number two 2025 Readers’ Choice Award for Best New Hotel.

“We are so excited to be reopening our doors and coming back stronger than ever as the hotel restores its vibrant spirit,” says Amy Michaelson Kelly, Principal of the firm Hatteras Sky, who developed The Radical. “This has been an extremely challenging time for the Asheville community and beyond, and we are looking forward to welcoming back familiar faces for a bright year ahead.”

Building community is at the core of The Radical’s mission, and during the storm recovery, the hotel’s team immediately moved to transform the property into a home for first responders and a distribution center for much-needed supplies for the community. The Radical also teamed up with River Arts District Artists (RADA) Foundation, Explore Asheville and Ponce City Market to host a “Love Asheville from Afar” pop-up art gallery at Ponce City Market in Atlanta, Georgia, featuring works from RAD artists impacted by Helene.

The hotel’s flagship wood-fire restaurant Golden Hour, its rooftop bar The Roof and its cafe and bar after/glow will reopen in the coming months (stay tuned on Instagram). Each is from local Asheville resident and two-time James Beard nominated restaurateur Jacob Sessoms. During the recovery, the restaurant teams cooked and served food for the neighborhood, and Sessoms was one of several North Carolina chefs who participated in Cooks for Carolina – a New Orleans dinner series that supported Asheville’s independent restaurants.

Guests can now book reservations to stay at The Radical Hotel here.

Throughout January, guests can enjoy complimentary drip coffee in the lobby from 8am-10am.

The Radical – Located in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina’s River Arts District, The Radical is a boutique hotel and living art installation that debuted in October 2023 owned by commercial real estate development firm Hatteras Sky and capital partner Somera Capital East and operated by Driftwood Hospitality Management. Housed in a once-abandoned 1920s warehouse that was formerly a cereal factory, the hotel is Asheville’s newest destination for travelers and locals alike, with 70 unmistakable guest rooms and suites, a flagship wood-fire restaurant named Golden Hour, a rooftop bar and a cafe and bar called after/glow – all from local Asheville resident and two-time James Beard nominated restaurateur Jacob Sessoms. Inspired by the River Arts District’s RAD moniker, The Radicalbrings together a collective of buzzing energy, creative talents and shared experiences designed to inspire all guests to be fearlessly radical. 

Related: The Radical in Asheville, NC: The newest, hippest, urban boutique hotel, restaurant and rooftop bar experience

(Top) Photo by Matt Kisiday | (Bottom) Photo Courtesy of The Radical

Lowcountry

U-Haul Growth States of 2024: South Carolina Tops List for First Time

January 7, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

States are ranked by their net gain or loss of one-way movers last year

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Jan. 2, 2025) — The trend of southern states netting larger numbers of one-way U-Haul® customers continued during 2024, with South Carolina topping the U-Haul Growth Index for the first time.

Texas, North Carolina, Florida and Tennessee round out the five leading growth states.

California experienced the greatest net loss of do-it-yourself movers in U-Haul equipment and ranks 50th for the fifth consecutive year.

Growth rankings are configured by each state’s net gain (or loss) of customers utilizing one-way U-Haul equipment in a calendar year. The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from well over 2.5 million one-way U-Haul truck, trailer and U-Box® moving container transactions that occur annually.

“State-to-state transactions from the past year reaffirm customer tendencies that have been pronounced for some time,” stated John “J.T.” Taylor, U-Haul International president. “Migration to the Southeast and Southwest continues as families gauge their cost of living, job opportunities, quality of life and other factors that go into relocating to a new state. Out-migration remains prevalent for a number of markets across the Northeast, Midwest and West Coast — and particularly California.

“U-Haul continues to expand its network, rental fleet and self-storage footprint so that wherever people move in 2025, we will be there to meet their needs.”

South Carolina climbed three spots in the rankings to unseat Texas, which was the No. 1 growth state for the previous three years (2021-23). Of all the U-Haul movers coming and going from the Palmetto State in 2024, more than 51.7% were arrivals.

Texas has ranked first or second among U-Haul Growth States each year since 2016. Florida has been fourth or higher every year since 2015.

New York, at No. 47 on the list, has its lowest growth ranking in a decade.

Oklahoma (+30), Indiana (+19) and Maine (+18) are the biggest risers year-over-year on the U-Haul Growth Index. Colorado (-31), Nevada (-24), Wyoming (-22) and New Mexico (-21) saw the biggest slides in 2024.

Find past growth rankings and reports at uhaul.com/about/migration.

2024 U-Haul Growth States

1.SOUTH CAROLINA (4)
2.TEXAS (1)
3.NORTH CAROLINA (3)
4.FLORIDA (2)
5.TENNESSEE (5)
6.ARIZONA (8)
7.WASHINGTON (7)
8.INDIANA (27)
9.UTAH (13)
10.IDAHO (6)
11. OKLAHOMA (41)
12. ARKANSAS (17)
13.MAINE (31)
14. OHIO (23)
15. GEORGIA (18)
16. ALABAMA (22)
17. VIRGINIA (10)
18. MINNESOTA (20)
19. SOUTH DAKOTA (19)
20. VERMONT (12)
21. DELAWARE (15)
22.WISCONSIN (26)
23.IOWA (24)
24.MONTANA (21)
25.KENTUCKY (29)
26.HAWAII (25)
27.ALASKA (34)
28.MISSOURI (28)
29.NEBRASKA (35)
30.WEST VIRGINIA (30)
31.NORTH DAKOTA (32)
32.KANSAS (33)
33.NEW HAMPSHIRE (40)
34.OREGON (37)
35.NEVADA (11)
36.WYOMING (14)
37. NEW MEXICO (16)
38. RHODE ISLAND (36)
39.MISSISSIPPI (39)
40. COLORADO (9)
41. CONNECTICUT (42)
42. MARYLAND (44)
43. MICHIGAN (46)
44. LOUISIANA (45)
45. ILLINOIS (48)
46. PENNSYLVANIA (38)
47. NEW YORK (43)
48.NEW JERSEY (47)
49.MASSACHUSETTS (49)
50.CALIFORNIA (50)

2023 growth rankings in parentheses

While U-Haul rankings may not correlate directly to population or economic growth, the U-Haul Growth Index is an effective gauge of how well states and cities are attracting and maintaining residents.

U-Haul is the authority on migration trends thanks to its expansive network that blankets all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The geographical coverage from 23,000-plus U-Haul rental locations provides a broad overview of where people are moving like no one else in the industry.

U-Haul continues to benefit the environment through its shared-use business model. Truck and trailer sharing empowers communities to share moving equipment so that families and individuals don’t need to own large-capacity vehicles to transfer belongings. Sustainability initiatives like U-Haul Adaptive Reuse (the preserving and repurposing of existing buildings for new stores), truck modifications to improve fuel economy, and plastic Ready-To-Go Boxes® that are shared hundreds of times before being recycled are among the ways U-Haul promotes green business. U-Box Load Share, the Company’s latest sustainability program, continues to earn awards for providing ecofriendly solutions to today’s gig economy.

About U-HAUL

Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the No. 1 choice of do-it-yourself movers with more than 23,000 rental locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The U-Haul app makes it easy for customers to use U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 to access trucks anytime through the self-dispatch and -return options on their smartphones with our patented Live Verify technology. Our customers’ patronage has enabled the U-Haul fleet to grow to 192,000 trucks, 138,700 trailers and 39,500 towing devices. U-Haul is the third largest self-storage operator in North America with 1,024,000 rentable units and 88.5 million square feet of self-storage space at Company-owned and -managed facilities. U-Haul is the top retailer of propane in the U.S. and the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. Get the U-Haul app from the App Store or Google Play.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Source link: U-Haul

Lowcountry

Flight Adventure Park Charleston Hosts Once in a Lifetime Grand Relaunch With Reimagined Space and Aviation Themed Attractions

January 7, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

The Premier Flight and Aviation-Themed Trampoline Park Will Be Debuting Its Intergalactic Makeover on January 10 With a Weekend Long Celebration Featuring a Retired NASA Astronaut

CHARLESTON, S.C., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Flight Adventure Park is the family fun center known for bringing to life imaginative spaces designed to encourage active play, celebration, interactive learning, and the freedom to fly. The relaunch of the newly space-themed Charleston park marks the first of four Flight Adventure Park locations to undergo renovations in 2025, with its Irmo location planned to reopen later this month. To highlight the renovation, grand reopening festivities including arts and food truck vendors, face painting, and DJs, will kick off on Friday, January 10th, and continue throughout Saturday, January 11th, for a fun weekend for families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike.

The weekend-long celebrations will be joined by both CEO Steven L. Yeffaand Captain Robert “Hoot” Gibson, former NASA astronaut and Flight Adventure Park Advisory Council Member. 

Guests can enjoy a refreshed, immersive space and aviation-themed interior, including the park’s new 2,800 sq. ft. Lunar Park, where guests can hop from planet to planet, and test their stamina and endurance on the Turbulence ride, a rocket-themed mechanical bull. The park will also debut its new Lunar Court, where guests can jump, slam dunk and play dodgeball. Three new private party rooms have also been developed with themes of space and aviation, boasting walls of educational, fun facts for kids to explore and a space to host parties and events.

“We began these renovations back in August 2022 with the goal of providing imagination, connection, learning, and adventure to families,” said Steven L. Yeffa, CEO of Flight Adventure Park. “Welcoming our guests to our Charleston location and seeing them experience this retrofit firsthand reinforces our excitement as we’ve swiftly brought these redesigns to all our parks in our network over the past couple of years, and our final park in the first quarter of 2025.”

About Flight Adventure Park

Flight Adventure Park is America’s only space and aviation-themed indoor adventure park and entertainment venue. Guests can unleash their imaginations, explore their physicality, and connect with others through diverse activities and games. Featuring trampolines, lunar courses, dodgeball, climbing structures, and more, Flight Adventure Park has the most comprehensive entertainment venues that cater to all types of audiences. Flight Adventure Park strives to make every visit a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining adventure, fitness, fun, and interactive learning to nurture an environment where guests can explore new heights. Flight Adventure Parkhas eight FLIGHT locations across the United States, providing year-round entertainment for parties, events, and everyday play. The company also owns and operates five FLIGHT locations in Canada, branded as iSaute. For more information, visit flightadventurepark.com.

Lowcountry

Charleston Local Spotlight: Glass Half-Full Mocktails – Redefining how we drink in the Lowcountry (One purposeful class at a time)

January 6, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

When we think about mocktails, we often think about a substitute for the real thing. Let’s take this a step further and give a conscious health and wellness driven angle to the design and consumption of mocktails. Now we have the passion and purpose behind Glass Half-Full Mocktails, a local Charleston based women owned solution offering classes throughout the Lowcountry with meaningful and fun results.

Let’s learn more about Glass Half-Full Mocktails and the energetic visionaries that are educating, entertaining and looking out for our health and well-being one class at a time.

What to expect from a Glass Half-Full Mocktails class?

Functionality & Education: Think: If a cocktail-making class & holistic nutrition consultation had a baby….

We are not reinventing the wheel, but we are certainly giving it an upgrade for a smoother & more purposeful ride on this journey that we call life. In 2024, the mocktail craze has taken the spotlight, & it’s not just a fleeting trend but a lifestyle that extends far beyond the confines of “dry January.”

Why functional mocktail classes, you ask? At Glass Half-Full, we believe in the power of intentionality in nourishing our beautiful bodies. While every day may not be picture-perfect, we want to equip YOU with the skills to craft elixirs tailored to offer targeted health benefits. Whether it’s combating a cold, promoting healthier skin, managing stress, fighting insomnia, alleviating seasonal allergies, or needing a natural pre-workout boost – there’s a mocktail for every wellness need!

But this isn’t your average health class; it’s a holistic experience. We infuse this educational journey with the art of classic cocktail making, adding a twist to your learning adventure. Impress your friends at the next gathering not only with your ability to craft beautiful & delicious drinks but also with the knowledge of how each sip holds a purpose beyond the glass. Because at Glass Half-Full, we believe in raising the bar – both in taste & well-being.

Sustainability

At Glass Half-Full, our dedication lies in fostering a symbiotic relationship with our magnificent Earth. By tapping into the medicinal richness of her flora, we acknowledge that we have been provided with a home that consistently supports our well-being. In return, we are committed to making choices that prioritize & safeguard her best interests. Our efforts extend beyond appreciation to proactive measures, striving to align with & protect the Earth that so generously provides for us. Together, let’s continue this journey of mutual support & sustainable harmony!At Glass Half-Full, our dedication lies in fostering a symbiotic relationship with our magnificent Earth. By tapping into the medicinal richness of her flora, we acknowledge that we have been provided with a home that consistently supports our well-being. In return, we are committed to making choices that prioritize & safeguard her best interests. Our efforts extend beyond appreciation to proactive measures, striving to align with & protect the Earth that so generously provides for us. Together, let’s continue this journey of mutual support & sustainable harmony!

Thrifting

By embracing the art of thrift, we’ve curated a collection of glassware that not only adds a touch of unique charm to our classes but also supports a more sustainable lifestyle.

We go out on the hunt to source our glassware, rescuing beautiful pieces that deserve a second chance. By repurposing & upcycling pre-loved glassware, we reduce waste & minimize our environmental footprint. Each piece in our collection tells a story, embodying the timeless elegance of yesteryear while contributing to a greener, more eco-conscious future.

We believe that small actions make a big impact!

Working Alongside the Seasons & Locals

We take pride in curating our mocktails with as many in-season fruits & locally sourced botanicals as possible. This deliberate choice not only ensures a symphony of flavors but also maximizes the nutritional benefits inherent in each ingredient. From the crisp freshness of summer berries to the robust warmth of fall spices, our concoctions are as dynamic as the changing seasons.

Choosing local & in-season ingredients isn’t just about delivering nutrient-dense options – it’s a conscious decision with far-reaching positive impacts. By supporting local farmers & utilizing produce at its peak, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also contribute to sustainable agriculture. The result? A guilt-free indulgence that not only nourishes your body but also nurtures the environment.

Embark on a journey of wellness where the fusion of in-season & local ingredients transforms mocktails into a holistic experience. Elevate your senses, embrace the seasons, & revel in the joy of mindful sipping with Glass Half-Full. Because, the purpose beyond the glass, lies the essence of well-being. Cheers to a healthier, happier, hour!

Classes are structured around 4 principles

How to learn more and book your class today!

Meet Jenna and Audrey – Founders and Educators

Cheers!

Lowcountry

Grand Opening of ‘Daniela’s Downtown Market and Deli’ on Spring Street in Charleston, SC – Tuesday, January 7, 2025

January 6, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

By Mark A. Leon

Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 7:00 AM, Daniela’s Downtown Market and Deli opens its doors at 132 Spring Street (Corner of Ashley and Spring). Along with a passionate team and products made with love, opening day is served with purpose.

“Join us for a heartwarming celebration at Daniela’s Downtown Market and Deli grand opening on Tuesday, January 7th at 7 AM! In honor of Daniela and all those bravely battling scleroderma, we’re donating 10% of our opening day proceeds to the National Scleroderma Foundation. Let’s come together for a great cause and a delicious start to the new year! See you there!”

Let’s come out and support to team at Daniela’s with a delicious breakfast or lunch sandwich, fresh coffee drinks and locally sourced menu items to meet all your needs.

Don’t forget to say hi to Natasha and ask her about her late mother Daniela (namesake). She will have wonderful stories to share.

Follow Daniela’s on Instagram.

Photos courtesy of Daniela’s

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Lowcountry

Captain Hugh Reavis Nelson, ’59, becomes first Citadel graduate to receive Medal of Honor

January 4, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

On Friday, January 3, 2025, the United States honored Capt. Hugh Reavis Nelson Jr., Citadel Class of 1959, with the nation’s highest military decoration — the Medal of Honor — for his extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War.

Nelson, who accepted a commission into the Army just before graduating from The Citadel, was killed in combat on June 5, 1966, while protecting the lives of his fellow soldiers.

The Medal of Honor is awarded to any service member who “distinguishes himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.”

“Captain Hugh Nelson: Citadel graduate, helicopter pilot and a proud young father. He was just 28 years old when he and his crew were shot down in Vietnam,” President Biden said during the presentation ceremony. “Hugh freed his men who were trapped in the wreckage and, as the enemy began to attack, he used his body as a shield to protect them. It cost him dearly — it cost him his life. His commanding officer called it the ultimate act of self-sacrifice, which it was.”

Nelson was commanding a Cobra aircraft, an attack helicopter, when it was struck by hostile gun fire and downed, with all weapons destroyed in the crash. After regaining consciousness, Nelson ignored his injuries and began evacuating his fellow soldiers from the helicopter while under enemy fire, using his own body as a human shield to save the life a crew member. His efforts allowed the surviving crew members to be evacuated.

“Capt. Hugh Reavis Nelson Jr. exemplified the highest values of courage, selflessness and leadership that we instill in every Citadel cadet. Nelson’s service to his comrades and country remains an enduring inspiration for us all. We will continue to honor his legacy with deep gratitude and unwavering pride and are proud to acknowledge him, not only as a Citadel graduate, but now also as a Medal of Honor recipient,” said The Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79.

Nelson’s example of sacrifice is particularly meaningful for The Citadel, as his co-pilot, Capt. Warren Bailey Jones, Citadel Class of 1964, survived the crash thanks to Nelson’s actions.

“The sacrifice of Capt. Hugh Nelson is a powerful reminder of the values we uphold at The Citadel — honor, duty and respect,” said Cadet Thomas Fitzpatrick, a senior at The Citadel who attended the ceremony. “As someone who plans to enlist in the U.S. Army after graduation, we all strive to lead with the same bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers that Captain Hugh Reavis Nelson Jr. demonstrated.”

At the same ceremony, President Biden also awarded the Medal of Honor to six other U.S. Army soldiers.

Nelson was previously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions.

The Citadel will work with Nelson’s family to mark this historic award at a future event.

While Nelson is the first graduate of The Citadel to receive the Medal of Honor, he is also the third former cadet to do so. Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, Class of 2008, attended The Citadel before enlisting in the Army. He was killed in Afghanistan in 2018 while evacuating wounded personnel under heavy fire.  Brig. Gen. John Thomas Kennedy Class, 1907, attended The Citadel for a year before graduating from West Point; he was severely wounded in the Philippine-American War leading an assault against enemy combatants in a cave.

Click HERE for Medal of Honor Citation Page.

Source: The Citadel

Photo: Debbie McKnight, Capt Hugh Nelson’s daughter, accepting the Medal of Honor on his behalf

Lowcountry

13 Things You Didn’t Know About Charleston, South Carolina

January 3, 2025 by 1 Comment
Read More

By Mark A. Leon

We live in a world of information overload, where content is being shared faster than we can absorb it.  Throw in the accolades Charleston is receiving and all the buzz is on this humble little city.  We are seeing a lot of recurring themes and information.  We thought we would find a few interesting tid bits of information, both historic and current about Charleston, SC that you may not already know.

Here we go.  Get ready to be Oh, Ah and Hmmmmed..

Some Things You Didn’t Know About Charleston, South Carolina

  • Adult film star Ally Tate calls Charleston home.
  • Horse Racing in Charleston:  There were at least 10 race tracks in the tri-county area including the York course (1735) in North Charleston and New Market (1754), between King and Meeting near present-day Columbus Street. But the most prominent course was the Washington Race Course which is now the mile-long Mary Murray Drive in Hampton Park.  According to the South Carolina Gazette, the first race took place almost 300 years ago on February 1, 1734 here in Charleston near the vicinity of John and Meeting Streets.
  • Edgar Allen Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie between 1827 – 1828.
  • The first game of golf played in the United States took place in Charleston, South Carolina.
  • Founded in 1773, The Charleston Museum is considered the country’s oldest municipal museum.
  • The College of Charleston, the first municipal college in America, and the oldest publicly supported college in the U.S., opened its doors in 1770. The college boasts three signers of the U.S. Constitution and two signers of the Declaration of Independence among its founding fathers.
  • There is a famous “round house” on Sullivan’s Island that a son designed for his parents to be hurricane proof, but if you look at it, you swear it is straight out of Star Wars:  A New Hope.
  • Egg Fertilization – Ernest Just was born in Charleston, SC, in 1883. He was a biologist, academic, and science writer. His most noted research was in the fundamental role of the cell surface in developing organisms such as egg fertilization.
  • Imitation Mineral Water – In 1810, Simons and Rundell of Charleston, SC, received patent to mass manufacture imitation mineral water that was used in soda fountains!
  • Invention of Iced Tea – There is a receipt from 1890 that proves that Summerville, SC, is the birthplace and, therefore, the inventor of iced tea.
  • The first symphony orchestra in America was sponsored by the Saint Cecilia Society of Charleston.  The Saint Cecilia Society was formed in 1766.
Survivor Finalist Chelsea Meissner
Survivor Finalist Chelsea Meissner
  • Lionel The Hedgehog with over 144K followers on Instagram is from Charleston, SC living with her mom Anna.
  • Charleston has a dental museum.  The Macaulay Museum of Dental History is a small, well-curated collection of vintage dental equipment and teeth-based treasures, like an instrument made by Paul Revere himself. You can even see a recreation of an early 1900s dental office, which won’t make you feel so bad about visiting the modern kind.

Now you have some fun facts for the light bar banter during halftime or at the next game night.

 

Sullivan’s Island

Lowcountry

CLIMB Fund – Charleston, SC based non-profit offering lending and client services to small businesses for over 40 years

January 2, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

CLIMB Fund is a not-for-profit Community Development lender whose mission is to ensure access to capital for small businesses and affordable housing developments that cannot secure traditional financing.

Based in Charleston and serving the entire state of South Carolina, CLIMB Fund has more than 40 years of history lending to entrepreneurs who have been turned away by for-profit banks. There are numerous iconic local businesses we’ve helped start and grow, but the most important impacts we have are providing new pathways to success and helping people realize their dreams.

Mission and Values

CLIMB Fund creates access to capital, jobs, and opportunities where they would not otherwise exist.  As a non-profit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), we leverage capital to create local impact, elevate opportunity, and advance social and economic justice.  

Click HERE to learn more about lending and client services.

Lowcountry

Dorchester County, North Charleston receive slice of $34M for infrastructure upgrades

January 2, 2025 by 1 Comment
Read More

By Jason Thomas – Charleston Business

Dorchester County and North Charleston will benefit from a state of South Carolina grant program for infrastructure projects.

For its first round of fiscal year 2025 grants, the S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority has approved grant assistance for 34 projects, totaling more than $34 million to address critical infrastructure needs related to public health and the environment while also developing increased capacity for economic opportunities, according to news release. These projects will benefit more than 91,000 customers in 24 counties across the state.

“As one of the fastest-growing states in the country, strategic investments in South Carolina’s water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure will continue to be critical to ensure the state’s future environmental health and safety, facilitate long-term sustainability of local utilities, and catalyze economic development and growth around the state,” said Executive Director Bonnie Ammons in the release. “With the assistance of RIA state grants, local governments and utilities can better prepare for the future and provide reliable service to both existing and new customers.”

Dorchester County and North Charleston Sewer District will receive $1.5 million each.

The majority of grants will fund capital improvements, including projects that will upgrade aging or undersized water mains, rehabilitate or replace aging sewer lines, improve sewer pump stations and treatment plants, and make communities more resilient to flooding and stormwater, the release stated. Six of the grants will fund projects that will enhance the infrastructure capacity to serve current or planned industrial sites and facilitate job creation for new and existing businesses around the state.

Additionally, grants were awarded to 10 communities for planning activities that will help safeguard their long-term viability, according to the release. These planning grants focus on various local needs, especially rural and small systems, including the mapping and assessment of existing infrastructure, development of capital improvement plans, and evaluations of the effects of stormwater.

RIA continues to work with partners to maximize the impact of state grant dollars. This round, the RIA state grant awards will be combined with more than $50 million in local and other funds to carry out the proposed water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure projects, according to the release.

RIA state grants are generally awarded twice a year through a competitive process that considers the need for improved public health, environmental protection, community sustainability and economic development.

Applications are selected by the RIA board based on criteria including severity of the problem, expected impact and project feasibility. Recipients share in the cost of infrastructure projects by paying for non-construction or other activities and, oftentimes, providing additional funds for construction.

To learn more about RIA or how to apply for grant assistance, click here.

Source: Charleston Business