Lifestyle

Business - Lifestyle

Broadstreet, Inc. makes private equity investment in Crystal Lagoons® amenities in South Carolina

August 22, 2022 by 0 Comments
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Greenville, S.C – August 22, 2022 – Broadstreet, Inc. has continued its strong growth in the Carolinas by providing private equity backing to the first state of the art Crystal Lagoons®  amenity in South Carolina through Broadstreet’s exclusive funding relationship with Blue Lagoon Development LLC, whose principals are Ford Elliott and Josh Howard. The first project is expected to be in Columbia, South Carolina and more will follow across the state. 

“We continue to work exclusively with Broadstreet as our valued private equity institution which has allowed us to continue to undertake exciting development projects and continue our massive footprint of projects in the Carolinas,” commented Ford Elliot, Chief Executive Officer of Contender Development and Blue Lagoon Development, LLC.

Through a unique and patented concept and technology that allows developers to build and maintain crystalline lagoons of unlimited size at very low cost, Crystal Lagoons® technology has the ability to create an idyllic beach lifestyle anywhere in the world. The technology has been implemented in more countries around the world and cities in the United States than any other lagoon developer. As one of the top five fastest-growing state populations between 2020-2021, South Carolina is well positioned for its first of these exceptional properties.

“Imagine living near a beautiful, crystal-clear water lagoon surrounded by white sandy beaches without actually having to travel to the beach,” said David Feingold, Chief Executive Officer of Broadstreet, Inc. “We are excited to bring this innovative amenity to South Carolina.”

Broadstreet and its development partners plan to locate the first lagoon in Columbia, South Carolina near a residential housing development. Many of the other similar projects around the United States offer more than just sunbathing and swimming, with the opportunity for shopping, entertainment, restaurants and hotels around the lagoon. The team has the option to develop three of these lagoon projects within the state.

“The options are endless to make this a destination everyone can enjoy,” said Joseph Baldassarra, President of Broadstreet, Inc. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to be a part of something very special.”

“I am thrilled with this unique project. I’m not aware of any other private equity firm doing similar deals like this. This is an incredible opportunity to help create a distinctive destination for residents and tourists to enjoy,” added Akhil Morada, Senior Managing Director of Broadstreet, Inc.

Crystal Lagoons ® amenities are sustainable and eco-friendly using a minimum number of additives and energy.  They use up to 100 times fewer chemicals and only consume 2% of the energy needed by a conventional swimming pool. Additionally, the lagoons can use any type of water and are only filled once, and they operate in a closed circuit. By bringing beach life, water sports and entertainment close to home, Crystal Lagoons® amenities also lower the human impact on biodiversity and reduce CO2 emissions associated with car and plane travel to natural beach destinations. It is a U.S. based company with locations around the world and was recognized as the Champion of Champions in the 2022 Green World Awards for winning the carbon reduction category, beating 200 winners across all other categories including climate change, water and energy efficiency and innovation.

ABOUT BROADSTREET

Broadstreet, Inc. is a private equity firm based in Greenville, S.C. with an impressive track record of identifying promising growth sectors for capital investments. The company has achieved approximately $3 billion in transactions and more than 600 people are employed in the businesses in which Broadstreet is the lead equity provider. Broadstreet is also the equity provider for the largest land infrastructure developer in the Carolinas with more than 40 projects that cover approximately 30,000 home sites. The firm’s significant development business has allowed expansion to ancillary real-estate based opportunities that include home development, land banking, and hotel lodging. For more information, visit broadstreetprivateequity.com.

Lifestyle - Real Estate - Summerville & Goose Creek, SC

A Look Inside: Del Webb Nexton – Active Adult Lifestyle Community (New Video)

August 19, 2022 by 0 Comments
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Within the gates of Active Adult Community Del Webb Charleston at Nexton, residents have so many resort like amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, pickleball and tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, plus clubs and hobby groups. Nexton in Summerville, SC, recently was awarded the ‘Best in American Living’ award by the National Association of Home Builders.

Lifestyle - Real Estate

Top 15 Questions People Ask When Moving to South Carolina – New Video by John R. White, Realtor

August 19, 2022 by 0 Comments
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When moving to any new place, you are going to have questions, and here are the top 15 questions people ask when moving to South Carolina.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMeRyWZ91S0
  • What about Alligators?
  • What’s the Weather Like?
  • What’s that Store with the Red Dots?
  • What’s up with the BBQ? 0
  • What are Grits?
  • What’s Pluff Mud
  • Wait, you put SHRIMP IN YOUR GRITS?!?!
  • Just how Sweet is Sweet Tea?
  • How Many Frogs Go into Frogmore Stew?
  • You BOIL Your Peanuts? SERIOUSLY?!?!?!
  • A Co-worker Invited Me to Shag…Should I Call HR?
  • Why Does Everyone Call Me Sir/Ma’am?
  • Why Do You Put Hot Sauce on EVERYTHING?
  • What Do You Do in SC When it Snows?
  • Someone said “Bless your heart” to me…that’s really nice, right?
Lifestyle

Lowcountry Rapid Transit Receives Key Federal Approval

August 18, 2022 by 0 Comments
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Project approved for entry into Engineering phase by Federal Transit Administration

North Charleston, SC (Aug. 17, 2022) –Lowcountry Rapid Transit (LCRT), a 21.3-mile bus rapid transit system and South Carolina’s first mass transit infrastructure project, has received approval from the Federal Transit Administration to enter into the New Starts Engineering phase of the FTA Capital Investment Grants Program (CIG).

This much-anticipated approval is a requirement of Federal transit law and moves the project one step closer to full funding and completion. 

LCRT is governed by a four-party intergovernmental agreement that includes the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG), Charleston County, SC Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA). The maximum Federal contribution to the project is now set at $375,060,506, or 60% of the current project cost. The local project funding match is committed from the Charleston County half-cent sales tax. 

With this Engineering approval, BCDCOG has automatic pre-award authority to incur various reimbursable project-related costs, including Engineering activities and vehicle purchases.

​The immediate next step is to procure an Engineering design firm. That process will be undertaken via the SCDOT procurement process, with design work projected to begin in early 2023. At the end of this phase, which includes further public participation, the project will be 100% designed.

The Engineering phase is anticipated to last about two years. After that, the project will be reviewed for execution of the Full Funding Grant Agreement (FFGA) and authorization to enter the Construction phase, with an opening date of 2028. 

What Leaders Are Saying …

Ron Mitchum, Executive Director, BCDCOG
The FTA is required to evaluate proposed projects against a number of criteria and ensure that prospective grant recipients demonstrate the technical, legal, and financial capability to implement the project. BCDCOG has met those thresholds, and we are pleased to make this announcement today.

Christie Hall, Secretary, SCDOT
Our beautiful state is the 10th fastest growing state in the nation with the Charleston metropolitan area being among the fastest-growing parts of South Carolina. The innovative Lowcountry Bus Rapid Transit project has the potential to improve the quality of life and reduce congestion for Charleston and North Charleston. SCDOT is proud to be a partner in this effort to make this line a reality.

Teddie Pryor, Chairman, Charleston County Council
Entry into Engineering is an exciting development that has been made possible by the hard work of many throughout the region — but there is still more to achieve. We thank the community for its support and partnership in helping to make LCRT a reality.

Mike Seekings, Chairman, CARTA
Lowcountry Rapid Transit is history in the making, which is saying something for our region. LCRT is truly new ground – both here and throughout all of South Carolina. This is the state’s first mass transit infrastructure project, and it is now one important step closer to reality.

Steve Dudash, Chairman, LCRT Strategic Leaders Partnership Committee
Private-sector leaders across the region have long recognized the importance of Lowcountry Rapid Transit and its transformative potential. We applaud the project partners for bringing LCRT to this point, and we stand united in continued support.

About Lowcountry Rapid Transit
Lowcountry Rapid Transit is a bus rapid transit system that will travel the spine of the Lowcountry, along US 78 and US 52 (Rivers Avenue). A comprehensive study conducted by the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments identified bus rapid transit as the best transit solution to combat increased congestion in our region. 

LCRT will transform the infrastructure in our region, improving transportation for public transit riders, commuters, and pedestrians. This modern transportation system will be a catalyst for economic growth and upward mobility throughout the area. For more information, visit the project website atLowcountryRapidTransit.com.

Business - Lifestyle - Mount Pleasant, SC

SkinCeuticals SkinLab in Charleston, SC is your local partner for brighter and healthier skin

August 18, 2022 by 0 Comments
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The beauty of the Lowcountry is visible in our beaches, landscapes, historic architecture, lifestyle spots, attractions, dining and in the Southern beauty we possess inside and out.

SkinCeuticals SkinLab on King Street is one of our amazing local businesses dedicated to providing the resources and expertise to keep your skin beautiful and healthy.

We are so proud of the team who brings a level of charm and knowledge that makes them a wonderful ambassador to the Charleston Community.

We invite you to experience all the wonderful services they have to offer

Why SkinCeuticals SkinLab™ by Mt. Pleasant Dermatology

At SkinCeuticals SkinLab™ by Mt. Pleasant Dermatology, our mission is to take the guesswork out of finding the best skincare solutions for the expert results you want. Their team of skin experts, led by board certified dermatologist, Dr. Stephanie-Smith-Phillips, aim to give you a multi-faceted approach to great skin with one simple formula: advanced diagnostics, signature aesthetic treatments, and effective skincare.

At SkinCeuticals SkinLab™ by Mt. Pleasant Dermatology, they want to be your go-to destination for brighter, healthier-looking skin.

Learn More

Location: 445 KING STREET, SUITE 101, CHARLESTON, SC 29403

Hours

MONDAY: CLOSED

TUESDAY – FRIDAY: 9 AM – 5:30 PM

SATURDAY: 10 AM – 3 PM

SUNDAY: CLOSED

Lifestyle

Love Turtles, Tortoises, and Conservation? Join The Turtle and Tortoise Society of Charleston Today

August 17, 2022 by 0 Comments
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The Turtle and Tortoise Society of Charleston (TTSC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of proper husbandry and education about all turtles and tortoises.

We encourage the dissemination of information that will aid members in establishing and maintaining habitats that will ensure the health and growth of captive turtle populations. Whether your population consists of many varieties of turtles or a single common turtle, membership will ensure that you will have both written information and a variety of experiences that will help you keep your turtles and tortoises healthy and happy.

The Society also is actively pursuing conservation measures that will help in protecting wild turtle populations. The TTSC sponsors many activities including field trips and workshops on turtle care. Membership in society benefits both the turtle owner and the turtle.

Arts & Entertainment - Lifestyle

Debut Novel SUNSET IN THE LOWCOUNTRY: BOHICKET Navigates Middle Age with Self-Exploration and Humor

August 16, 2022 by 1 Comment
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Palmetto Publishing’s latest novel shows that there is indeed life—abundant life—for women over the age of fifty-five

Charleston, SC, Aug. 16, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For far too long it has been assumed that women over the age of fifty-five just fade away. They buy wine, adopt cats, fight depression, or discreetly buy vibrators. The stars do not align for middle-aged women.

The world largely ignores these accomplished women who have endured five decades of education, work, marriage, divorce, the trials of motherhood, and years of celibacy. But being overlooked is decidedly not in Rosie’s future. After her divorce, Rosie is learning how to navigate middle age alone. She finds excitement on the small barrier island of Seabrook, just south of Charleston, with an attractive sailor whom she meets at Bohicket Marina. Before long, an old Yankee boyfriend reappears. Despite Rosie’s active love life, a gnawing feeling of depression and self-doubt lingers and manifests into a presence she calls The Hag.

The Hag is always belittling Rosie, leaving her feeling insecure. But Rosie has an ally in her pet Chihuahua, Hades, whose unconditional love empowers Rosie to make the most of life. Infused with humor and warmth, Sunset in the Lowcountry: Bohicket illustrates how with a little wit, self-exploration, and perhaps some vodka, women can survive—and even thrive—in middle age.

Sunset in the Lowcountry: Bohicket is available for purchase online at Amazon.com. 

For more information on the book and Margaret Simons, please visit any of her social media platforms.

About the Author:

A retired schoolteacher, Margaret Simons called the South Carolina Lowcountry home for thirty years. She raised her daughters in Mount Pleasant and taught at Charleston County Schools. She lives in Hartsville, South Carolina, with her husband and pet Chihuahua. Sunset in the Lowcountry: Bohicket is her first novel. 

Lifestyle - North Charleston, SC

Lowcountry Food Bank Announces its 2nd Annual Walk to Fight Hunger Let’s Unite to Feed the Lowcountry

August 16, 2022 by 0 Comments
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Charleston, SC — Lowcountry Food Bank announced today its 2nd Annual Walk to Fight Hunger, a family-friendly event that aims to bring awareness to hunger issues in coastal South Carolina and raise funds for Lowcountry Food Bank programs, including Senior Meals, Childhood Hunger programs, and fresh produce options for the community.

The Walk to Fight Hunger, presented by Charles River, will take place on Sunday, September 18 at Wannamaker Park in North Charleston. Individuals, companies, civic groups, schools, and churches are encouraged to put together fundraising walk teams and celebrate with the community at the event.

A variety of corporate sponsorship levels and volunteer opportunities are available through August 22, including Silver, Bronze, and Signage sponsorships. Sponsors to date are: Presenting Sponsor Charles River Labs, Apollon Wealth Management, Aramark, Benefitfocus, Berkeley Electric, Canebrake Construction, Crews Subaru, Google, Greystar, Humana Marketpoint, Jear Logistics, Motley Rice, Publix, MUSC, Nucor, Raymond James, Ruby Sunshine, Samet Corporation, SC Stingrays Hockey, Sea Island Builders, Stanley Martin Homes, and Sun Solutions. Live 5 News and WEZL Kindness Crews-Aide are the event Media Sponsors. Event sponsors are Brilliant Faces, Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Charleston Southern University, Fleet Feet, Food Lion, Humana Healthy Horizons, Other Brother Entertainment, Panera Bread, and TURN90.

Community Partners are Charleston Animal Society, Charleston County Public Library, Charleston Moves, Green Heart Project, and Viva Chicken.

“The food insecurity rate remains high at more than 11% in the 10 coastal counties of South Carolina we serve. This is equivalent to 161,430 of our neighbors, of whom 45,540 are children,” said Nick Osborne, Lowcountry Food Bank President & CEO. “Our work to ensure that every neighbor who experiences food insecurity has equitable access to healthy food remains focused and strategic while we navigate economic inflationary issues, higher food and transportation costs, and food procurement challenges,” he said. “The need is still great to ensure our neighbors who face hunger can live a healthy life. We encourage our community to participate in the Walk this fall and learn a little more about hunger issues at the event.”

“For nearly 35 years, Charles River has operated in Charleston County. We are committed to ensuring our Lowcountry communities are healthy and thriving,” said Greg Marshall, CVP and General Manager, Charles River. “We are proud to sponsor the Walk to Fight Hunger again this year to continue to support the Lowcountry Food Bank in its mission to alleviate hunger in Coastal South Carolina.”

For more information about the Walk, please contact Lowcountry Food Bank Development Officer, Alexis Barbalace, at abarbalace@lcfbank.org or 843-747-8146, ext. 105.

To learn more about Lowcountry Food Bank, visit our website at lowcountryfoodbank.org.The Lowcountry Food Bank serves the 10 coastal counties of South Carolina and distributed more than 40 million pounds of food in 2021. The Lowcountry Food Bank helps fight hunger by distributing food to more than 250 partner agencies including on-site meal programs, homeless shelters and emergency food pantries.

The Lowcountry Food Bank advocates on behalf of those who experience hunger and helps empower people to make healthy and nutritious food choices. For more information, visit the Lowcountry Food Bank website.

Charles River provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and leading academic institutions around the globe accelerate their research and drug development efforts. Our dedicated employees are focused on providing clients with exactly what they need to improve and expedite the discovery, early-stage development and safe manufacture of new therapies for the patients who need them.

To learn more about our unique portfolio and breadth of services, visit www.criver.com.

Food & Bev - Lifestyle

Charleston Daily Food Deals for Kids

August 15, 2022 by 0 Comments
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Our friends at Charleston with Kids have compiled a list of great Daily Deals where Kids Eat Cheap or Free!

Thank you for this wonderful list:

Monday:

  • 1/2 Off Chicken Hibachi at Charleston Distilling on Johns Island (3548 Meek’s Farm Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455)

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

  • Kids Eat Free on Wednesday at East Bay Deli
  • 1/2 Priced Burgers at Bohemian Bull on James Island (1531 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412)
  • Kids Eat Free after 4:00 PM with the purchase of an adult meal at Ms. Roses Fine Food in West Ashley (1090 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407)

Thursday:

  • Kids Eat Free at Jalisco on James Island on Thursdays (1271 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412)
  • $4.00 Burgers on Thursdays at The Alley – Downtown Charleston (131 Columbus St, Charleston, SC 29403)
  • Kids Eat Free on Thursday at the West Ashley East Bay Deli (858 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407)