Charleston District, Horry County Host Public Input Meetings for Waccamaw River Flood Risk Management Study

Read More

CHARLESTON, SC — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District and Horry County are hosting three public meetings to solicit public input as they consider flood risk reduction measures for flood impacts along the Waccamaw River and its tributaries. 

The study will evaluate both structural and nonstructural measures to reduce flood risks to structures, transportation routes and life safety. Primary impact areas have been initially identified based on historical flooding information and include Bucksport, Socastee, City of Conway, Red Bluff, and Longs.

The public is invited to these “open house” meetings to learn more about the Waccamaw River FRM Study and interact with subject-matter experts.

For more information, please visit our website at: www.sac.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Waccamaw-River-Flood-Risk-Management-Study.

Meeting information is below:

Tuesday, June 13, 2023,
North Strand Recreation Center
120 Hwy 57S Little River, SC 29566
4:00pm – 6:00pm

Wednesday, June 14, 2023
James Frazier Community Center
1370 Bucksport Rd. Bucksport, SC 29577
4:00pm – 6:00pm

Thursday, June 15, 2023
Horry County Government and Justice Center
1301 Second Ave. Conway, SC 29526
4:00pm – 6:00pm

The $3.9 million study will be cost shared 50-50 with Horry County and it kicked off on Aug. 19, 2022, when the cost share agreement was signed.

Contact

Francisco Hamm
843-329-8174
francisco.g.hamm@usace.army.mil
69A Hagood Ave., Charleston SC 29403

Follow more at Charleston Daily

South Carolina Real Estate Commission to require disclosure of flood history to buyers

Read More

Petition to shield home buyers from unforeseen costs and damages

CHARLESTON, S.C. — This month, a new disclosure form published by the South Carolina Real Estate Commission goes into effect that will ensure better information about flood history and erosion risk is shared between home sellers and buyers across the state. This improved transparency will help home buyers better prepare for future floods and take precautions such as purchasing flood insurance. Previous requirements did not give home buyers enough information about flood history or insurance claims, leaving buyers to discover flood risks after a storm brought property damage and high costs. 

Surprisingly, there is no nationwide requirement that flood history be shared between seller and buyer during a home sale. This breakdown in risk communication makes it harder for state agencies to prepare for the accelerating impacts of climate change, and it unfairly leaves buyers in the dark. Thanks to proactive leadership from the state Real Estate Commission, South Carolinians will benefit from more comprehensive flooding disclosures for every home that goes on the market starting this summer. These changes empower homebuyers with more information and promote better decision-making and storm preparedness. 

“The revised Residential Property Disclosure Statement strikes a great balance between increasing consumer awareness while also protecting existing homeowner rights,” said Nick Kremydas, Chief Executive Officer of South Carolina REALTORS®. “These changes would not have been possible without the forward thinking of the Real Estate Commission and the leadership of their Chairman Andy Lee nor the efforts of the Southern Environmental Law Center and Coastal Conservation League. It was pleasure to work with these groups for changes that will protect lives, properties, and dreams.” 

Not limited to coastal areas, South Carolina is vulnerable to multiple flooding hazards from severe thunderstorms to hurricanes, and flooding is often exacerbated by development patterns. Nearly 210,000 South Carolinians are living in 900 square miles of flood-prone areas, and those affected by flooding before are likely to get hit again. While buyers could previously guess a home’s flood history using FEMA flood maps where they are accessible, all too often these maps do not accurately depict flood risk.  

“People buying homes in high-hazard areas have to be informed before they can be prepared,” said Emily Cedzo, Director of Conservation Programs & Policy at the Coastal Conservation League. “Thanks to the leadership of the Real Estate Commission and partners at South Carolina REALTORS®, there will now be greater transparency in real estate transactions in our state.”  

In addition to adding much-needed detail about the condition of a property, including flooding and coastal processes, enacting these disclosures could help reduce flood insurance rates across the state by earning points for all communities using the Community Ratings System. 

“We applaud the South Carolina Real Estate Commission for empowering new homeowners with better information on flooding and erosion risks,” said Jenny Brennan, SELC Science and Policy Analyst. “This commonsense measure helps make the state more resilient to the next storm.” 

The decision will allow South Carolina to catch up to states like Louisiana and Texas that already ensure buyers have information about a property’s flood and coastal hazard history. A similar change is coming to North Carolina after the state’s real estate commission passed a flood disclosure petition in March. With North Carolina and South Carolina now requiring improved disclosure of flood history, SELC will continue to work with our partners to advocate for these policies across the South.

###

The Southern Environmental Law Center is one of the nation’s most powerful defenders of the environment, rooted in the South. With a long track record, SELC takes on the toughest environmental challenges in court, in government, and in our communities to protect our region’s air, water, climate, wildlife, lands, and people. Nonprofit and nonpartisan, the organization has a staff of 200, including more than 100 attorneys, and is headquartered in Charlottesville, Va., with offices in Asheville, Atlanta, Birmingham, Chapel Hill, Charleston, Nashville, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. southernenvironment.org

Source link

5 Local Charleston, SC Organizations focused on Conservation Efforts – We hold you close to our hearts

Read More

Here are some conservation organizations headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina:

  1. Coastal Conservation League: (131 Spring Street, Charleston, SC) – The Coastal Conservation League is a nonprofit organization that focuses on protecting and preserving the natural landscapes, wildlife habitats, and quality of life in the South Carolina coastal region. They work on issues like land conservation, water quality, sustainable development, and climate change.
  2. South Carolina Aquarium Conservation Programs: (100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC) – The South Carolina Aquarium, located in Charleston, is dedicated to promoting education and conservation of the region’s aquatic ecosystems. Their conservation programs focus on sea turtle rehabilitation, marine animal rescue, oyster reef restoration, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
  3. Audubon South Carolina: (125 Wappoo Creek Dr Building G, Suite 214, Charleston, SC 29412) – Audubon South Carolina is a state office of the National Audubon Society. They work to protect birds and their habitats through advocacy, education, and conservation initiatives. Their efforts include the protection of Important Bird Areas, promoting bird-friendly communities, and engaging citizens in citizen science projects.
  4. Lowcountry Land Trust: (635 Rutledge Ave #107, Charleston, SC 29403) – The Lowcountry Land Trust is a nonprofit organization that focuses on preserving and protecting natural lands and scenic areas in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. They work to conserve land through conservation easements, acquisitions, and partnerships with landowners and communities.
  5. The Nature Conservancy South Carolina: (1417 Stuart Engals Blvd #100, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464) The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization that has a presence in South Carolina. Their South Carolina chapter works to protect and restore the state’s natural landscapes, rivers, and coastal habitats through science-based conservation strategies.

These organizations are actively engaged in various conservation efforts in and around Charleston, striving to preserve the region’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and environmental well-being.

Follow and subscribe to Charleston Daily

Lowcountry Land Trust

Last week marked the official groundbreaking for Atelier Nexton, a new modern work environment

Read More

Last week marked the official groundbreaking ceremony for the anticipated newest edition to the Nexton community, Atelier Nexton. This modern work environment will be a beautiful edition to the Nexton vision.

About Atelier Nexton

WELCOME, ATELIER DOWNTOWN NEXTON

Is your business or workplace located within Nexton? It might be soon.

More and more, businesses are catching on to the benefits of locating in Nexton. Whether you’re shipping product, trying to catch a flight or just looking for a great lunch spot, a location in Nexton makes your employees’ days a lot more efficient. Which makes them a lot more happy. And happier employees = better business.

So, what exactly makes a day better? For starters, a superb location just off I-26 equidistant to downtown Charleston and I-95. Lots of green space for important brain-boosting breaks within nature. Trails for a quick cardio workout or even a walking meeting. Proximity to great restaurants and time-saving services. Access to lightning fast internet speeds. 

If the stars align, they might just find they can walk to work, too. From apartments and townhomes to spacious single-family homes and semi-custom executive homes, Nexton has a diversity of home types to suit all family makeups. And have we mentioned Nexton was named 2022 Mixed-Use Community of the Year by the National Association of Homebuilders? 

Introducing Atelier Downtown Nexton

Meet the new guy in town. A fellow innovator, Atelier (pronounced A-tel-yay) Downtown Nexton is an office environment inspired by modern think tank spaces. Perched on 7.5 acres in the middle of Nexton, the campus-like setting will include multiple two-story buildings up to 18,000 square feet. 

What kind of business can we expect? Small entrepreneurs to larger commercial, medical and service organizations are going to find Atelier Downtown Nexton ideal. Common green spaces, trails within and linking to the rest of Nexton, and a thoughtful, modern design will appeal to business of all sizes. The campus will also feature ample parking for quick and convenient access.

Breaking ground later this year and opening in 2024, Atelier may just be your future workplace. 

Are you a business owner ready to make moves? For more information on available spaces, contact Peter Fennelly, Bridge Commercial at 843-425-0186.

See you on the trails. 

Follow more at Charleston Daily

Source link

Roper St. Francis Healthcare now offering fast-acting, clot-busting drug to improve outcomes for stroke patients

Read More

Stroke patients who come to Roper St. Francis Healthcare will have a lower risk of brain damage in part because of a clot-busting drug, Tenecteplase (TNK).  

TNK will replace another clot-busting drug that takes up to an hour to fully administer, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Now, stroke patients will receive the medication, TNK, administered through an IV push in just five seconds.  

“It’s imperative that we treat our stroke patients as quickly as possible,” said Stroke Program Coordinator Lori Schrecker. “It can be the difference between life and death. It can also be the difference between whether the patient will be able to walk, talk and see again.”  

TNK is a thrombolytic, meaning it dissolves the clots that deplete the brain of blood and oxygen, causing a stroke. It has been implemented across all four of the healthcare system’s hospitals and two 24-hour ERs as the system’s new standard treatment for stroke patients. 

Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke, and it is a leading cause of serious long-term disability, reducing mobility in more than half of stroke survivors aged 65 and older, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.  

Evidence based on clinical trials has demonstrated that TNK administered for stroke improves the rate at which blood flow is restored to the brain and decreases the chance for intracranial hemorrhage. The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association guidelines now advise that TNK should be considered best practice, as clinical trials have demonstrated better patient outcomes, Schrecker said. 

For RSFH to make the transition, clinical teammates across the system underwent extensive training to learn how to administer TNK, what side effects to look out for and how to teach patients. For successful stroke treatment, it’s not only important to offer the right drug, but it’s also imperative to have a whole team and procedure that can act fast and is dedicated to caring for patients, Schrecker said. 

“This is a monumental milestone for the system and for our patients,” Schrecker said. “It has been a huge undertaking and I’m incredibly proud of our stroke team – Dr. Alison Smock, Carla Kessinger and Cynthia Reck – for pushing this transition.”  

Follow more at Charleston Daily

Source link

Why do we cry?  The Ted Lasso Affect

Read More

By Mark A. Leon

We cry for three primary reasons:

  1. Loss
  2. Yearning
  3. Happiness and joy

In times of loss, yearning for something missing within our own lives and joy, our body produces tears.  It is these salty droplets that bring us to a point of aching that make us human.  Empathy, vulnerability, and the pure uncontrollable urge to let others penetrate your outer core to touch your soul are unconditionally the most special feelings one can ever achieve.

Ted Lasso reminded us it’s okay to cry and be vulnerable.

Cheers to Ted Lasso

If we are fortunate, each generation may find one or two shows that define “perfection”.  These shows stay true to their vision, connect with the audience in an immersive way and develop an emotional connection as they are guided through the journey of the narrative.

I’m so proud to say Ted Lasso has made it to the top of my list.  For that, I will always believe!

Believe

Ted Lasso captured the world in a way, so few shows have ever done before.

In message of positivity, Ted and the Richmond Greyhounds taught us to believe!

  • Believe in love
  • Believe in friendship
  • Believe in second chances
  • Believe in trust
  • Believe in inner strength
  • Believe in support
  • Believe in teamwork
  • Believe in kindness
  • Believe we are all in this together

In one of the most profound moments in the final montage, Mae straightened a picture of Geronimo in the bar.  This was a homage to Nick “Coach” Colasanto from Cheers in a replication of the final scene of the iconic show’s finale when Sam made the same gesture.

That episode of Cheers aired May 20, 1993, almost 30 years ago to the day we said farewell to Ted.  Truly an honored and respectful moment connecting two of the most iconic shows in television and streaming history.

Like Sam, Mae opened up her bar and created a new bloodline with Richmond, its common lineage, where her patrons could come together and find a safe harbor.

Goodbye and Farewell

Ted went home a better person; a better father; a better human being.  Through the support of a group of strangers that emulated to his energy, her found another family that understood and accepted his struggles.  In a way, the final episode was not a finale, but a new beginning.

When you say goodbye, you immediately think about all the things you wish you had done but didn’t.  Ted Lasso left nothing on the table.  He walked into a situation designed for failure and walked out a winner in life.  He was able to deal with his struggles of anxiety and mental health by seeking help, uncovering years of held back emotions and find comfort in the most unexpected of places; his Richmond family.

As you watched Ted impart lessons of soccer and life on his son, you knew he was home.  You also knew, he never left.

Perhaps the most important recurring lesson in this shows run is that we are not perfect.  As Higgins stated so eloquently, “Human beings are never going to be perfect, Roy.  The best. We can do is keep asking for help and accepting it when you can.  And if you keep on doing that, you’ll always be moving towards better.”

Lessons in life

The profoundness of Ted Lasso will continue to have an impact on the lives of millions.  This show will continue to be watched and new lessons will come with each viewing.  To create a show that makes us want to be better people in unprecedented. 

It’s okay to not be okay

We struggle every day.  We make mistakes.  We have regrets.  We take risks.  We even avoid risks.  But, knowing there are others that going through some of our own pains and are willing to listen and help is so comforting.

In the end, Henry took his dad’s advice to heart; “be a goldfish”

I think we can all use that advice sometimes….

Thank you, Ted.

3 Charleston, SC organizations that advocate inclusion and support in the LGBTQ+ community

Read More

Charleston, SC is home to several LGBTQ+ organizations and Pride events that support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Here are a few notable pride organizations in Charleston:

  1. Charleston Pride: Charleston Pride is an organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ visibility, equality, and acceptance in the Charleston area. They organize the annual Charleston Pride Week, a series of events that includes a parade, festival, and various community activities.
  2. Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA): AFFA is a nonprofit organization that works towards achieving equal rights and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community in Charleston and beyond. They advocate for policies and legislation that protect LGBTQ+ rights and provide resources and support to individuals and families.
  3. We Are Family: We Are Family is a local organization that focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ youth in the Charleston area. They provide a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ young people, offer counseling and support groups, and organize educational programs and events.

These organizations contribute to fostering a supportive and inclusive community for the LGBTQ+ population in Charleston. They provide resources, advocacy, and events that promote awareness, acceptance, and equality. It’s always a good idea to reach out to these organizations directly or visit their websites for more information on their programs, services, and upcoming events.

Bonus:

Did you know…Charleston Police Department has the only gender identity and sexual orientation training for law enforcement in the state of South Carolina. All new CPD recruits receive the training. 

Delicious Charleston Food Tour: The Best Food + Drink in Charleston, SC – New video by Away Together with Nik and Allie

Read More

Charleston, South Carolina is an incredible U.S. city with amazing food. Charleston’s Food Scene is a culinary powerhouse and the city is consistently rated one of the top places to eat in the USA.

In this video, I break down 12 of the best places to eat and drink in Charleston, including breakfast/brunch, drinks, and dinner! Be sure to watch til the end where I give my top recommendations for each category.

Ranger Design establishing first South Carolina operations in Charleston County – 50 new jobs

Read More

Congratulations to Ranger Design on establishing its first South Carolina operations in Charleston County! The company’s 1.5 million investment will create approximately 50 new jobs.

$1.5 million investment will create approximately 50 new jobs

Ranger Design, a manufacturer and provider of innovative fleet upfit solutions, today announced plans to establish its first South Carolina operations in Charleston County. The company’s $1.5 million investment will create approximately 50 new jobs.

Established in 1988, Ranger Design is an industry leader in fleet upfit solutions, offering innovative products such as shelving, racks and accessories for commercial vehicles. Ranger Design’s rapid design prototyping and state-of-the-art manufacturing process supports the trades workforce by developing tough, innovative products to make work more efficient and safer. 

The new-commercial vehicle upfitting center, located at 9035-K Sightline Drive in North Charleston, will enable Ranger Design to better serve its current customers with extra warehousing capacity. This facility will also allow the company to expand its footprint for fleet upfit solutions in commercial electric and gas-powered vehicles.

Operations are expected to be online by the summer of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the Ranger Design team should visit the company’s careers page.

QUOTES

“We are thrilled to establish our new upfitting center in North Charleston, South Carolina. This expansion of our fleet upfit solutions capabilities is a significant part of our overall growth plan. It positions us for new opportunities and enables us to better serve our current customers.”
-Ranger Design President and Chief Executive Officer Ron Cowie

“Ranger Design’s investment in Charleston County will not only add to South Carolina’s impressive automotive industry, but also provide new economic opportunities for our people. We welcome Ranger Design to our state and look forward to the work they will do here.” 
-Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are pleased to welcome Ranger Design to Charleston County. South Carolina is known as an automotive powerhouse, and our suppliers help reinforce that reputation. Ranger Design establishing operations in our state adds a unique addition to South Carolina’s manufacturing landscape.”
-Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Today, we celebrate a momentous occasion as Ranger Design, a trailblazer in fleet upfit solutions, announces plans to establish its first operations in Charleston County. This facility marks a significant milestone in Ranger Design’s growth strategy, propelling the company toward new opportunities and allowing it to serve valued customers better. We extend a warm welcome to Ranger Design and eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will bring to the Charleston community.”
-Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

FIVE FAST FACTS

  • Ranger Design is establishing its first South Carolina operations in Charleston County.
  • The company’s $1.5 million investment will create approximately 50 new jobs.
  • Ranger Design is a provider of fleet upfit solutions and manufacturer of vehicle storage solutions for commercial electric and gas-powered vehicles.
  • Located at 9035-K Sightline Drive in North Charleston, S.C.
  • Individuals interested in joining the Ranger Design team should visit the company’s careers page.

Source link

Official Grand Opening: The Matador in downtown Charleston, South Carolina

Read More

CHEERS TO CHARLESTON: MATADOR OPENS ON MEETING STREET

The Matador, renowned for its exceptional Mexican cuisine and impressive collection of tequila and agave sprits, is thrilled to announce it has opened its doors over the holiday weekend at 235 Meeting Street in Charleston, South Carolina.

With two more East Coast locations planned for Charlotte and Greenville, The Matador owner and North Carolina native Zak Melang is thrilled to be opening the restaurant’s doors in Charleston.

“After growing up in the Carolinas, I’ve always dreamed of coming back home to open a restaurant, and Charleston felt like a natural fit for The Matador,” says The Matador Owner, Zak Melang. “Our team has put in countless hours perfecting our food and drink offerings with the freshest ingredients and flavors, and we can’t wait to share our top-notch program with the people of Charleston and beyond.”

SIGNATURE STYLE & FLAVORS

Matador Charleston blends rustic hacienda-inspired style with modern touches featuring décor such as a custom-built metal fireplace, a vibrant stained-glass window featuring The Matador logo and old-world Mexican-style antiques curated by Melang, who designs and creates much of the décor by hand. Matador Charleston’s dining room, seating over 120 guests inside, complements the upstairs Mezcaleria, a dedicated mezcal bar built from reclaimed wood, along with a spacious outdoor patio. In addition to the Mezcaleria and outdoor patio, a combined 4,500 sq. ft. of upstairs event space is inclusive of two private rooms – coined the Reposado and Añejo Room – and offers a place for those of all ages to gather for private parties and banquets.  

Beloved for its menu of inventive, scratch-made dishes, Matador’s fresh Mexican cuisine is paired with a world-class tequila selection. At the adult-friendly restaurant, which welcomes guests over 21, Matador spotlights the art of agave through the largest selection of tequila and agave spirits in the Carolinas. For those who like it neat, guests can sip their favorites or try something new during Top Shelf Tuesday, which offers half-off any tequila over $16. Cocktail enthusiasts can indulge in a wide variety of margaritas, ranging from the classics to unique flavors like Blackberry-Habanero, Cucumber-Jalapeño, Tamarind-Ginger and Blood Orange.

From 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close, come hungry for a daily happy hour featuring food specials such as crowd-favorite Grande Nachos, Grilled Stuffed Jalapeños and Street Tacos. Appetizer highlights include Queso Con Chorizo with melted three-cheese house blend, creamy habanero sauce, pico de gallo, cilantro and queso fresco; and Ahi Tuna Tostadas with avocado, agave ponzu sauce, chipotle mayo, green onion and finishing salt. During lunch and dinner, guests can choose from standout entrees such as the Braised Carnitas with pork shoulder, Mexican black beans & rice, pico de Gallo, hibiscus pickled onions, guacamole and cilantro-lime sour cream with flour or corn tortillas; and a lineup of delicious Burritos with choice of Poblano CarnitasHabanero SteakVerde Chicken or a vegetarian Beyond Burrito option. Lighter fare includes soups, salads and bowls, while desserts – such as the Matador Choco Tacos – are the perfect ending to any meal.

MEET US ON MEETING

Matador Charleston will be open every day from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. with a daily happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close. To learn more, please visit the restaurant online and follow along @thematadorsouth on Instagram. Guests can download the Thanx app to sign up for The Matador’s loyalty program, sharing exclusive rewards and earning points for every dollar spent across locations.

Photo Credit: Brianna Stello

Follow more at Charleston Daily