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Lowcountry

New Economic Impact Report Shows International Automakers Boosting Manufacturing Jobs and Investments Across South Carolina

June 28, 2023 by 0 Comments
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Autos Drive America and the American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) today released their 2023 Economic Impact Report, highlighting the continued commitment and contributions international automakers and nameplate dealers are making across South Carolina. Investments from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, and Volvo Cars have cultivated economic growth and job creation for communities throughout the state. 

Key findings from the 2023 EIR include:   

  • International automakers, dealers, and suppliers have generated 76,641 jobs in South Carolina, paying $5.5 billion in total employee compensation. 
  • International automakers invested $15.3 billion in South Carolina’s auto industry, up from $13.8 billion in 2021.   
  • International automakers in South Carolina produced 485,291 vehicles, accounting for 100% of production in the state. 
  • International automakers are committed to electrification with BMW announcing a $1.3 billion investment to produce electric vehicles in South Carolina. 

South Carolina’s full report can be found here.  

“As our Economic Impact Report shows, international automakers have proven their commitment to fostering economic growth in communities across the U.S., especially in South Carolina,” said Jennifer Safavian, President and CEO of Autos Drive America. “The investments our members are making are helping to resurge U.S. manufacturing while meeting evolving consumer demands. At the same time, South Carolina’s communities are feeling the benefits of international automakers through family-sustaining career opportunities and competitive wages and benefits.”  

According to the 2023 Economic Impact Report, international automakers and dealerships contributed $11 billion to the state’s GSP. Between South Carolina’s five manufacturing facilities, one research and development center, and 151 international nameplate dealers, $1 billion was contributed to state and local revenues.   

The report also demonstrates how international automakers are setting the pace in green vehicle manufacturing, R&D, and sales in South Carolina. In 2022, Auto Drive America’s member organizations sold 11,441 of green vehicles, representing 69% of South Carolina’s market share. 

“The data is clear—international automakers are driving South Carolina’s manufacturing sector and economy forward,” Safavian continued. “Autos Drive America is confident that international automakers will continue this surge of investments in the U.S., and we think the best is yet to come.”  

The annual Economic Impact Report aims to educate policymakers and the public on today’s U.S. auto industry and international automakers and dealers’ growing economic footprint in South Carolina and across the U.S. The automobile manufacturers participating in the 2023 Autos Drive America and AIADA Economic Impact Survey were BMW Group, Honda, Hyundai, KIA, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen Group of America, and Volvo Cars. Sales data represents new vehicle registrations in the United States in 2022 for Acura, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Ferrari, Fiat, Honda, Hyundai, Genesis, Infiniti, Jaguar, KIA, Karma, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Lexus, Lotus, Maserati, Mazda, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo Cars. 

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About Autos Drive America

Autos Drive America represents the U.S. operations of international motor vehicle manufacturers integral to America’s workforce, communities, and economy. As the voice of international automakers in the United States, Autos Drive America works closely with policymakers at all levels of government to advance policies that promote jobs, trade, and growth in the U.S. automotive industry. Learn more at www.autosdriveamerica.org. 

About AIADA

The American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) serves as an advocate for international nameplate new automobile dealership franchises before Congress, the White House, and federal agencies. Visit AIADA online at www.aiada.org.

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Lowcountry

Payfluence Announces New Office Location and SC Coast Expansion into Daniel Island, SC

June 28, 2023 by 0 Comments
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Payfluence HCM has announced a South Carolina Coast expansion, to include a new office location on Daniel Island. Headquartered in Greenville, SC, this new location enhances their ability to serve clients and business partners in the Lowcountry, meeting client demand and filling a market need. 

a group of people standing around a table with a white tablecloth

Penn Gaines, CEO commented “As a South Carolina headquartered company, opening an office down on the Coast allows us to strategically expand our mark across the state and to build relationships with current and future customers in the region. Payfluence’s promise is to empower our teammates and customers with an exceptional employee experience by combining our unmatched service with leading edge technology.” 

Payfluence is a fast-growing, boutique HCM company, which offers an all-in-one, custom implemented and fully integrated Payroll, HR, Benefits Admin, and Time Management software platform. Their core differentiator in the Human Capital Management space is their SC based, dedicated support model. Although they are SC based, Payfluence has clients throughout the country due to their robust multi-state tax administration capabilities. 

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To learn more about Payfluence, please visit www.payfluencehcm.com

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Lowcountry

Charleston History On this Day: Remembering the Battle of Sullivan’s Island – June 28, 1776

June 28, 2023 by 1 Comment
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Battle of Sullivan’s Island
Battle of Sullivan’s Island Definition: The Battle of Sullivan’s Island was a military conflict between the Kingdom of Great Britain and its thirteen colonies in North America during the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). The year and date that the Battle of Sullivan’s Island took place on June 28, 1776. The battlefield in which the British and American Forces fought during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island was located near Charleston, South Carolina. Sullivan’s Island was a large island commanding the entrance to Charleston harbor. British frigates had scouted the area in May and observed the construction of the American fort on Sullivan’s Island. The Battle of Sullivan’s Island ended in victory for the American colonists.

Overview and Summary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island
The Battle of Sullivan’s Island took place on June 28, 1776 near Charleston, South Carolina when the British army and fleet attacked Charleston.  The entrance to Charleston Harbor was protected by sandbanks. A sandbank Is similar to a reef and a navigation, or grounding, hazard.  the channels through these sandbanks lead directly to the end of Sullivan’s Island. where the Americans had built a fort of 16 feet wide palmetto logs filled with sand. General William Moultrie commanded the fort and it was named in his honor, Fort Moultrie. The British fleet sailed into the harbor to attack the fort. The fleet consisted of 9 man-of-war ships carrying 300 heavy cannon. The cannons were fired but the balls from the ships’ guns were stopped by the soft sand-filled palmetto logs. During the conflict a flag commissioned by the colonial government and designed by William Moultrie was shot away and fell down outside the fort. A patriot called Sergeant Jasper rushed out, seized the broken flagstaff, and again set it up on the rampart. General Henry Clinton and his troops landed on an island and was trying to cross to the further end of Sullivan’s Island and were under fire from Americans on the beach. Unexpectedly the water deepened, and the British had to jump aboard their ships to save themselves from drowning. General Henry Clinton ordered a retreat and the fleet also sailed away from Charleston

Battle of Sullivan’s Island – The Liberty Flag aka the Moultrie Flag
The above pictures of the battle show the flag that was designed by Colonel William Moultrie. The flag was commissioned by the colonial government and the design was a blue flag with a white crescent saying LIBERTY on it. The flag became known as the Moultrie flag or the Liberty Flag. Later on during the Revolutionary War in the 1780 siege Charleston was taken by the British and the flag was taken. The ‘Liberty Flag’ was later reclaimed by American forces at the end of the war, the flag was returned to the city of Charleston by General Nathanael Greene.

The Importance and Significance of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island

Significance of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island: The significance of the conflict was that the small force of militia were able to force the retreat of 9 British ships – and the news was spread as propaganda for the Patriot cause.

*Courtesy of Land of the Brave Info

Lowcountry

Do you earn enough to be in the Top 5%; Top 10% of South Carolinians?

June 26, 2023 by 1 Comment
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Who much do you need to earn to be among the Top 10% of South Carolinians?

According to research by GoBankingRates.com you need to earn $207,367 to be in the top 10%. This would put you 256% above the median income.

  • Median income: $58,234
  • Top 10% income: $207,367

What if I want to be in the Top 5% of earners in the state of South Carolina?

  • How much you need to be in the top 5%: $214,275
  • Average household income for the top 5%: $374,427
  • Median household income for the entire state: $58,234
  • How much more the average 5% makes than the median: 6.4x

Here are how other Southeast states ranking for the Top 5% earners:

  • Georgia – $245,320
  • Mississippi – $179,799
  • Alabama – $202,158
  • Arkansas – $193,240
  • North Carolina – $228,071
  • Tennessee – $215,861
  • Florida – $236,080

Did you make the list?

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Lowcountry

Significance of the Landscaping at the International African American Museum

June 26, 2023 by 0 Comments
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New International African American Museum Extends its Storytelling Through Unique Landscape Design Elements

SeamonWhiteside partnered with nationally-renowned Hood Design Studio to bring this multi-decade project to life

Charleston, S.C. (June 26, 2023) – SeamonWhiteside (SW+), a full-service site firm with offices throughout the Carolinas, recently completed a seven-year site design and landscape architecture project in partnership with Hood Design Studio for the International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston. After more than two decades of planning, fundraising, and construction efforts, the museum will celebrate its grand opening on June 27.

As the Landscape Architect of record, SW+ brought Creative Director Walter Hood and the Hood Design Studio team’s unique and intentional design ideas to life for the museum. From the Tide Tribute to the African Ancestors Memorial Garden, starting from the site itself, the significance of each design decision was carefully curated and installed.

“We are honored to have partnered with the prestigious Hood Design Studio to bring the artistry and storytelling in their designs to life,” says Gary Collins, Vice President at SeamonWhiteside. “Usually you expect the interior of a museum to be breathtaking, and while that’s true with IAAM, the exterior site is just as remarkable.” 

The museum sacredly hovers 13 feet above the historic site of Gadsden’s Wharf, the port of arrival for nearly half of all enslaved Africans brought to North America. The design honors the history, impact, and gravity of the site through specific landscape and artistic selections.

These installments include:

  • African Ancestors Memorial Garden: Adjacent to the elevated museum is a Palm Grove and Sweetgrass Field. As part of the African Ancestor Memorial Garden, there are plants that are representative of Africa and Charleston, as well as stone stilo columns to reflect the deep-rooted history of African American culture in Charleston. Both Hood Design Studio and SW+ wanted to create a garden that was reflective and tied both regions together.
  • Tide Tribute: Built on embedded tiling figures over the Charleston Harbor, the water feature visually honors the enslaved individuals who laid shackled on ships coming to the United States. Twice a day, the tribute fills and empties with water to mimic the tide, revealing the shapes of those enslaved men, women, and children who arrived at that exact Harbor. This slightly sloped installment was in a very technical and precise location that Hood Design Studio and SW+ were pleased to deliver on given the tight and difficult parameters.
  • Tabby-Based Columns: Being in the Lowcountry and wanting to reflect the early indigenous culture, a focus on coastal materials was at the forefront of every design. The columns that support the museum were formed using tabby, concrete made of oyster shells, and are indicative of traditional building methods of the coastal region.
  • Stainless Steel Band: Accurate from geographical maps, a stainless steel band runs the entire angled width of the property to identify the exact parameters of where Gadsden Wharf was once established. The steel band includes engravings of various countries to honor the places that individuals were brought from. 
  • Footprint of Existing Building: On site of the museum is an outline of bricks that depict where a building known as the “Warehouse Wall” once laid on the Wharf years ago.  

Located at 14 Wharfside Street, the IAAM was a huge undertaking that involved many partners to complete the project. While SeamonWhiteside provided landscape architecture services, Hood Design Studio provided full design services. In addition, there were many other collaborators: Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, Moody Nolan, Guy Nordenson and Associates, Arup in the Americas, Aqua Design International, Turner Construction Company, Ralph Appelbaum Associates, and Forsberg Engineering. 

To learn more and plan your visit to this public and always free museum, visit iaamuseum.org. 

To learn more about SeamonWhiteside, visit their website: www.seamonwhiteside.com.

ABOUT SEAMONWHITESIDE

SeamonWhiteside (SW+) is a full-service site design firm providing master planning, civil engineering, landscape architecture, urban design services, and permit coordination to public and private clients throughout the Carolinas. SW+ elevates the site design experience through a full commitment to people, clients, plans, and communities. Their passion, collaboration, quality, and care results in innovative spaces that enrich lives and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Headquartered in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, SeamonWhiteside also has offices in Summerville, Greenville, Spartanburg and Charlotte, North Carolina. For more information on SW+, visit www.seamonwhiteside.com. 

Photos Credit: Hood Design Studio

Lowcountry

East West Partners announces sell-out of Phase II at the Waterfront Daniel Island, teases Phase III details

June 26, 2023 by 0 Comments
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The second phase of the 22-acre lifestyle community included 41 luxury condominium residences across three new buildings.

CHARLESTON, S.C. (June 26, 2023) – One of the Lowcountry’s premiere luxury real estate developers, East West Partners, announces today that all residences in Phase II at mixed-use lifestyle community The Waterfront Daniel Island have officially sold, a little over one year since sales for the phase were first released. Phase II comprises 41 one, two, and three-bedroom condominium units across three new buildings.

“We are thrilled to officially close out sales on this second residential phase at The Waterfront,” says Harriette Calder, project manager for The Waterfront Daniel Island. “Demand for this community has remained strong ever since its inception, reflecting a continually growing interest in the elevated, yet relaxed coastal lifestyle and vibrant social environment we’ve been able to cultivate here. Our residents truly make this community a one-of-a-kind destination in the Lowcountry and we can’t wait to welcome our Phase II residents home to The Waterfront soon.”

Phase II, which began construction in April 2022 and is expected to deliver in early 2024, will feature luxury condominium residences spread across the Sabal, Camellia, and Magnolia buildings, most of which offer direct, unobstructed views of the picturesque Wando River. Ranging from approximately 1,220 to 3,400 square feet, floor plans in the second collection feature outdoor terraces, elevated finishes by interior designer Betsy Berry, and river views, with some penthouse units. In addition to the residences, this second collection also features exclusive new homeowner amenities, including a shared, elevated outdoor courtyard for residents of the Sabal and Magnolia buildings and an outdoor terrace and gathering space called The Perch for residents of the Camellia building.

Later this fall, East West Partners expects to announce the release of sales for Phase III of the development, an exciting new collection of 47 total residences including condominiums, townhomes, and a handful of marsh cottages, representing a new product offering for the community. East West Partners will expand upon its collaboration with Berry for the interior design of Phase III products and will partner with two architectural firms, including MacMillan Pazdan Smith and Court Atkins, to bring the residences to life.

All homeowners who purchase at The Waterfront enjoy access to standout amenities, including:

  • Direct access to Daniel Island’s newly redesigned waterfront park, featuring two public docks with paddle launch and dog ramp, an interactive fountain, waterfront swings, and children’s play area.
  • Access to an array of natural and planned amenities, including 25+ miles of trails with views along the marsh and water; The Kingstide, Daniel Island’s only waterfront restaurant with rooftop bar; and The Daniel Island Market and Eatery (The DIME), a gourmet grab-and-go market.
  • Private amenities including a resort-style pool; pool pavilion with fire pit, fireplace, and grilling station; fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment; community outdoor gathering spaces; and post center with onsite property management.

The master plan for the development of The Waterfront on Daniel Island includes a total of six phases. For more information on East West Partners and The Waterfront Daniel Island, please visit www.ewpartners.com and www.thewaterfrontdi.com. 

# # #

ABOUT EAST WEST PARTNERS:

East West Partners is devoted to building, selling, managing, and supporting high-quality real estate and lifestyle experiences with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and community. Since 1986, the firm has developed and sold over $7 billion of residential and commercial real estate across the country. East West Partners is one of a few companies to have received three Urban Land Institute Awards for Excellence for its projects, including Beaver Creek Village in Beaver Creek, Colo. and Union Station Neighborhood and Riverfront Park, both in Denver, Colo.  In Charleston, the team is recognized for developing community projects in the downtown area, including condominiums at One Vendue Range, 76 condominium units in Gadsdenboro Park’s The Gadsden, 58 condominiums and townhomes at The Waterfront on Daniel Island, and Mount Pleasant’s Tides IV. Currently underway are 78 condominiums at The Cape on Kiawah Island and 12 condominiums at 71 Wentworth in downtown Charleston. East West Partners is also credited with managing the recent repositioning and renovation of Charleston’s former 91-room King Charles Inn, now The Ryder hotel on Meeting Street. 

Lowcountry

8 Places to go in Charleston, South Carolina to reduce anxiety and find calmness

June 25, 2023 by 0 Comments
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Charleston, South Carolina offers a variety of serene and calming places where you can find peace and reduce anxiety. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: This historic plantation features stunning gardens, walking trails, and beautiful views of marshlands. It’s a peaceful oasis where you can stroll amidst blooming flowers and ancient oak trees.
  2. Middleton Place: Another plantation with exquisite gardens, Middleton Place is known for its carefully manicured landscapes and reflective ponds. Take a leisurely walk along the paths and enjoy the tranquility of this enchanting place.
  3. The Battery and White Point Garden: Located at the southern tip of the Charleston Peninsula, this waterfront park offers panoramic views of the harbor and Fort Sumter. The peaceful atmosphere, shaded pathways, and historic landmarks make it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
  4. Charleston Waterfront Park: Situated along the Cooper River and Charleston Harbor, Waterfront Park provides a serene setting with fountains, walking paths, and swings overlooking the water. Find a comfortable bench or bring a blanket to sit on the grass and enjoy the calming breeze.
  5. Folly Beach: Just a short drive from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach offers a peaceful coastal retreat. Stroll along the sandy shores, watch the waves, and soak up the sun. The laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty make it an excellent place to unwind.
  6. McLeod Plantation Historic Site: This preserved plantation provides a unique opportunity to explore history while finding tranquility. The scenic grounds and informative exhibits allow for a reflective experience as you learn about the area’s past.
  7. Angel Oak Tree: Located on Johns Island near Charleston, the Angel Oak is a majestic and ancient live oak tree estimated to be over 400 years old. Visit this natural wonder and find solace in the shade of its sprawling branches.
  8. Cypress Gardens: Situated just outside of Charleston in Moncks Corner, Cypress Gardens is a peaceful swamp and garden area known for its beautiful water lilies and serene boat rides through the blackwater swamp. It’s an ideal spot to connect with nature and enjoy a sense of calm.

Remember that finding peace and reducing anxiety is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Take the time to explore these places at your own pace and find the one that resonates with you the most.

Lowcountry

Photo Gallery: Picturesque Sunrise from Charleston Waterfront Park

June 25, 2023 by 0 Comments
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To experience a Charleston sunrise is a gift filled with the merits of nature’s wondrous amusement. It is calm and peaceful; spiritual and meditative; soothing and rich in life.

On this Sunday morning, the skies opened to a canvas of color and light. Enjoy this gallery from the dawn of a new day in Charleston, South Carolina.

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Lowcountry

Who is behind the design and construction of the new International African American Museum in Charleston, SC?

June 25, 2023 by 1 Comment
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There is tremendous buzz around one of the most important new museum openings in the nation, the International African American Museum (14 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC). Curating some of the most important pieces of African American history, this museum, led by CEO Tonya Matthew, will bring an emotional narrative to life right in the heart of Historic Charleston, SC.

As important as the content within the windows and walls is the infrastructure that took thoughtful planning and design to become the landmark that sits today on the Charleston Harbor.

We’d like to take a moment to recognition the creative forces behind the design and construction of this beautiful piece of architecture.

To all those incredible women and men that made this upcoming opening possible, Thank you!