Cleaning from the Heart: Meet Local business owner Kaydean, Founder of Charleston-based 7Doves Cleaning, LLC

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Starting a business takes courage, determination, inspiration, and purpose. For Kaydean, her business was a calling, mixed in with a passion and wrapped in a bit of spiritual awakening. Learn more about this amazingly talented small business owner of 7Doves Cleaning, LLC and find inspiration in your own life.

Meet Kaydean German and her inspirational story behind founding and operating 7Doves Cleaning, LLC

My journey to starting my own cleaning business began around the time I had my very first spiritual awakening. I’m not going to get deep into that whole experience, but it definitely set the tone for the way my current life is unfolding as well as what my future holds. I was one of those people who didn’t truly know their abilities in this world.

Once upon a time, I was unaware of the fact that speaking positive words into our dreams plays a huge role in the process and outcome of what we wish to create. I will admit that I didn’t believe in myself when I came to a lot of things, so of course, becoming a business owner never even crossed my mind  – then that all changed.

“I began to see myself as the creator of my own life as well as someone who could make other people’s lives easier with the cleaning experience I have to offer. I look at my love for cleanliness as a gift (rather than pure OCD) and a skill I can use to be a helping hand to those in need. By putting my heart into my business as well as embracing that this is my positive way of serving my community, I’ve grown to accept that this is definitely one of my purposes in this world.”

Coming to this realization and actually experiencing the fruits of my labor has been such a fulfilling feeling! Over the years I was ashamed of my occupation. I noticed how a lot of individuals in my generation looked down on janitors, housekeepers, etc. But I’m thankful that I never fully let the opinions of others affect the decisions I made in my life. Though I’ve succeeded in numerous jobs in different fields, I’d always find myself coming back to cleaning positions.

To be completely honest, at first, it was because cleaning jobs were so easy to find! Then it became something I didn’t want to stop doing. Even when I had other types of occupations, I’d always keep a side hustle cleaning, so it was always apart of me somehow. 

The reason I hold my business so close to my heart is because this was the first experience where I stepped out on faith, completely blind to the direction it could all take. Though I’d have negative thoughts at the beginning about the “what ifs”, I still trusted that all things would fall into place… and they did just that! I never would’ve imagined that by me simply surrendering all control of what the outcome of my business could be, that all of my dreams so far would come true. 

I wish to be someone who inspires others to have confidence in their visions as well as a positive attitude when it comes to going after the things we desire. It’s been proven many times throughout my journey of building my business that nothing prospers unless we believe in ourselves first. 

My aim is to leave every individual I encounter with a refreshing type of comfort in this environment; like a breath of fresh air. For me, knowing that things are clean provides peace of mind and I know there are many other people who would agree.

I am blessed to have met and built beautiful relationships with those I’ve provided services for and I’m absolutely looking forward to meeting and helping more people in my community! 

Reviews:

“Kaydean’s housekeeping skills are systematic, thorough and outstanding. She’s personable, competent, willing to please.”Rochelle, Summerville SC

“I would highly recommend Kaydean German’s services-  to anyone who is in need of a cleaning service. She is very focused on each task put before her and doesn’t seem to mind cleaning anything that is asked of her. She is very pleasant and personable. I decided to print up a list by room of everything I wanted to be cleaned in my house. Not only did she not mind me giving it to her, but she said she loves lists too and feels a list helps keep her on task.  My husband and I hope to have Kaydean in our employ for a very long time!”Audrey, Mount Pleasant SC

“Kaydean is a good worker and has cleaned my house thoroughly since I hired her several months ago. She is pleasant in my home and always has a smile on her face.” Mary, Charleston SC

Contact information:

7Doves Cleaning, LLC – Kaydean German

Can the Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester flooding, traffic, and overall livability issues be resolved? Here are a few suggestions our elected official should take seriously

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The Tri-county is growing. If you blink, you miss a new subdivision, apartment complex, office building, brewery or self contained living community. We have become the final destination of choice on the East Coast for starter families, veterans and retirees and there is still no sign of slowing down. That is where the pain points become elevated.

It is almost on a daily basis that you see in the media reference a new land acquisition or commercial real estate purchase. Yet, in the same pages in black and white, we are seeing foundation businessess that have thrived for generations fold to the hands of new investors or bankruptcy.

Rent prices are on the rise. Taxation is at a record high. Meters prices increased in price and operating hours and hundreds of thousands cannot live with the current cost of living.

How do we reverse the trend that is destroying the simple traditional way of life that has remained for over 300 years? Or is it too late?

Here are a few suggestions to help curb the flooding, traffic, cost of living and growing pains and hopefully begin to slow or reverse the trajectory.

  • Create a Tri-County Advisory Board – We must work together to pool ideas, resources, and work as one.
  • Put a 5-year restriction on new residential housing development – Until the 526 Corridor, road infrastructure, and flooding issues are resolved, we need to curtain population growth.
  • Add a Tri-County additional gas tax – Drive revenue growth from tourists and reduce unnecessary driving by changing behavior with increased gas prices. Also, South Carolina is one of the top 5 lowest gas price states in the nation. This is a revenue stream that the area can truly benefit from.
  • Our current administration speaks about “liveability” but actions dictate tourism is the top priority. Work to fix that. Add additional taxes to airlines and rental cars and put that funding toward subsidies for parking for downtown workers and small businesses.
  • Identify tiered priorities of the locations with the most systemic flooding issues – Tier 1: Highest Priority, Tier 2: Mid-Level Priority and Tier 3: Low priority with potential for more severe issues in the future. Begin to build a plan to address Tier 1 and work toward creating short to long term solutions for our most difficult locations of flooding. Then tackle the next two tiers.
  • Add a non-resident toll for beach entrance for Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach. This can be as low as $2.00 – $5.00 per car and put this funding toward additional resources in education, roadway repair, flooding solutions and subsidies for small business in times of crisis.

If we look at some of these alternative solutions, we may find our way back to the place we love to call home.

Charleston Based Springbok Coffee Releases 2020 Holiday Blend

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When making your list (and checking it twice) this season, Springbok Coffee Roasters‘s 2020 Holiday Blend should be at the top! A delightful combination of Springbok’s crowd-pleasing Ixlama coffee with its natural-processed Finca Medina, this brand new blend features bold notes of sweet strawberry, chocolate and subtle baking spices- perfect for everyone under the tree. 

Whether using for your daily morning brew or combining with a spirit to create the perfect buzzworthy holiday cocktail, Springbok’s Holiday Blend won’t disappoint. You can order for $18.50, along with Springbook’s other coffees and cool mugs, at springbokcoffee.com, with free shipping on all orders over $25.

Madison Capital Group Acquires 275 Units in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 3, 2020,/PRNewswire/ — Madison Capital Group, LLC is pleased to announce the acquisition of Foundry Point Apartments, a 275-unit multifamily community located in Downtown Charleston, SC.

Foundry Point is a premier mid-rise community located on the upper peninsula section of Downtown Charleston. Foundry is located blocks away from several restaurants and breweries and a short distance to Historic Downtown Charleston.

(PRNewsfoto/Madison Capital Group)

“Foundry Point is an asset that we plan to hold long term as we believe in the long-term growth of Charleston, particularly on the Peninsula. The nearby corridor is continuing to transform, and we are excited to see how the area looks in 10 – 15 years”, said Ryan Hanks Founder of MCG.

Madison Capital Group has been very active over the last 10 years in the Charleston region and has a large office in Downtown Charleston. Madison has been involved in the acquisition and development of 13 other communities in the Charleston MSA since 2009 and has two more communities planned in Downtown and West Ashley.

Madison Capital Group, LLC is a multifamily investment firm based in Charlotte, NC, and focuses on the development and acquisitions of Class A multi-family projects throughout the Southeast.

Contact: investors@madisoncapgroup.com

SOURCE Madison Capital Group

Lowcountry Christmas Tree Lightings – Dates and Locations

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Here are details for some of the area tree lighting ceremonies:

  • Summerville, SC – Thursday, December 3, 2020 – 5:00 PM – Hutchinson Square
  • North Charleston, SC – Friday, December 4, 2020 – 6:00 PM – Felix C. Davis Community Center
  • James Island – Saturday, December 5, 2020 – 6:30 PM – James Island Town Hall
  • Charleston, SC – Sunday, December 6, 2020 – 5:00 PM – Colonial Lake (Ashley Avenue an Broad Street)
  • Hanahan, SC – Sunday, December 6, 2020 – 6:00 PM – Hanahan Amphitheater
  • Moncks Corner, SC – Sunday, December 6, 2020 – 6:00 PM – 418 E. Main Pavilion

A New Take on Holiday Cocktails with Charleston, SC Based Springbok Coffee

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Here is a treat for all our readers who love cocktails and coffee.

Owner Jason Bell, Springbok Coffee Roasters, is a licensed Arábica Q Grader who roasts small-batch, hyper-local, artisan coffee for some of Charleston’s top coffee shops (Butcher & Bee, The Daily and Mercantile & Mash to name a few) with the mission of producing the highest quality morning brew possible. He has created 3 fun and delicious cocktail recipes to help you through the holiday season and beyond.

The Drunken Snowman

Made with Springbok’s Harleston Village Blend (named after Charleston’s quaint downtown neighborhood), which has hints of chocolate and almond, this frosty drink makes the perfect sweet ending for any holiday celebration.

  • 1 scoop of chocolate ice cream
  • 1 oz. Baileys
  • 2 oz. Springbok’s Harleston Village Blend
  • Peppermint whipped cream, for garnish

Bourbon Butterscotch Latte

Ideal for cozying up by the fire on a blustery winter night, Springbok’s Uraga coffee from Ethiopia has notes of brown sugar and caramel, pairing perfectly 

  • 4 oz. Springbok Uraga
  • 1 oz. bourbon
  • 1 oz. butterscotch sauce

Naughty Breakfast 

Red berry, chocolate and peach notes define Springbok’s Kayon Mountain Farm coffee, which pairs perfectly with Irish Whiskey and maple syrup for a sweet start to a buzzworthy morning.

  • 4 oz. Springbok Kayon Mountain Farm
  • 1 ½ oz. Irish Whiskey 
  • 2 tsp. brown sugar
  • 1 oz. maple syrup 

Photos courtesy of Springbok Coffee Roasters

Lowcountry Land Trust Protects More Land in the ACE Basin

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Magnolia Hall part of a critical mass of protected properties 

CHARLESTON, S.C. — The Lowcountry Land Trust has announced the permanent protection of 14 acres of critical land in the ACE Basin. A conservation easement was donated to the Land Trust by owners Dean and Jean Harrigal.

The property, known as Magnolia Hall, is located in southern Colleton County along the Old Chehaw River. It contains maritime forest, mixed pine-hardwood upland forest, and wetlands. 

“Most of our professional careers have been centered around conservation, and we believe in being good stewards of the land,” the Harrigals said. “We’re grateful we can protect Magnolia Hall forever. It’s a special place to us and we’re excited to officially join the Lowcountry Land Trust family.”  

“Placing Magnolia Hall into a conservation easement is another win for the Lowcountry,” said David Ray, acting CEO & chief conservation officer of Lowcountry Land Trust. “We are thrilled to protect 14 more acres of critical wildlife habitat and over 500 feet of river frontage. This land fills a gap in a very large network of permanently protected lands in the ACE Basin.” 

Magnolia Hall is directly adjacent to other privately protected lands and directly across the Old Chehaw River from the publicly accessible 8,048-acre Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, which is owned and managed by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources. It is part of more than 100,000 acres of contiguous protected lands stretching from US Highway 17 to the mouth of St. Helena Sound, and across three counties—Charleston, Colleton and Beaufort. 

This area is also part of the more than 300,000 acres of protected land in the ACE Basin that preserves a network of wildlife corridors, clean water, and scenic beauty. 

“We are so grateful to the Harrigals for adding their property to the incredible story of landowner-led conservation in the ACE Basin,” Ray said. “Their foresight and generosity will help preserve this critical area of the South Carolina Lowcountry for generations to come.” 

The ACE Basin landscape is exceptionally diverse, supporting more than 267 species of terrestrial and aquatic birds, 83 species of reptiles and amphibians, 20 species of mammals, and 130 species of fish and shellfish.

Lowcountry Land Trust has protected over 147,000 acres of land across 14 South Carolina counties. Since 2019, the Land Trust has protected four other properties in the ACE Basin, totaling more than 3,400 acres. 

About Lowcountry Land Trust 
Founded in 1986, the Lowcountry Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the mission to honor the relationship between people and land by protecting irreplaceable Lowcountry lands and treasured places. Lowcountry Land Trust has protected over 147,000 acres across 14 counties in South Carolina. More information about the Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.  

Carver Maritime, LLC expanding operations in Charleston County

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More than $27.8 million investment will create 50 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Carver Maritime, LLC, an industrial port known for its shipping and warehousing storage operations, today announced plans to expand its existing operations in Charleston County. The more than $27.8 million investment will create 50 new jobs.

Founded in 2016, Carver Maritime, LLC has a deep-water pier for loading and offloading ships and barges, along with more than half a million square feet of warehousing space. Additionally, the company accommodates ships carrying cargo such as salt, break bulk, gypsum, and stone aggregates.

Located at 1801 Shipyard Creek Road in North Charleston, Carver Maritime, LLC’s expansion will include the construction of a new 120,000-square-foot building to support its stevedoring, warehousing, and supply chain business.

The expansion is expected to be completed by 2025. Individuals interested in joining the Carver Maritime, LLC team should contact hr@carvercompanies.com

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with costs of site preparation and construction.

QUOTES

“The Covid-19 pandemic has created many challenges for small businesses like ours, but I want to give credit to both the county and state economic development officials for being responsive to these changes. Since expanding our business operations to North Charleston back in 2016, we’ve experienced a friendly pro-business environment that has allowed our business to grow. We could have expanded our operations in New York or our facilities in Florida, but local officials partnered with us which will allow us to create more jobs and help raise the per capita income in the Charleston area.” -Carver Companies President and CEO Carver Laraway

“We are always excited when one of our existing businesses chooses to increase its footprint in South Carolina. We celebrate Carver Maritime, LLC’s decision to expand and create 50 new jobs in Charleston County.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We congratulate Carver Maritime, LLC on this expansion, which adds to the continued success they’ve experienced in South Carolina. This latest investment further proves that our state has the business climate and logistics capabilities companies are seeking.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“The growth of Carver Maritime, LLC in its short tenure in Charleston County has been truly notable. We are thrilled that they continue experiencing so much success, and their decision to invest more than $27.8 million and create 50 new jobs in North Charleston is great news.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“The ability to efficiently import and export goods into our region is an asset to the economy we rely upon, creating jobs and investment in our community. We are happy to see these benefits expanding in the city of North Charleston.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“It’s remarkable to witness a company expanding in back-to-back years. Our Business Concierge team assisted in 2019 and returned in 2020 to facilitate another expansion for Carver Maritime, LLC. We appreciate Carver Maritime’s commitment to Charleston County, and look forward to a long-term relationship.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

  • Carver Maritime, LLC is expanding operations in Charleston County.
  • The more than $27.8 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
  • Carver Maritime, LLC is an industrial port known for its shipping and warehousing storage operations.
  • Located at 1801 Shipyard Creek Road in North Charleston, S.C.
  • Individuals interested in joining the Carver Maritime, LLC team should contact hr@carvercompanies.com.

Bank of America Names North Charleston based Metanoia as Neighborhood Champion in Recognition of Work to Advance Economic Mobility in Charleston

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Program Provides $50,000 in Grant Support and an Opportunity for Virtual Leadership Training
 
Charleston, S.C.— Bank of America today announced Metanoia as a Neighborhood Champion, a recognition that includes both grant funding and leadership training. The Neighborhood Champions program supports the role strong nonprofit leaders play in advancing economic mobility and is an extension of the bank’s signature philanthropic initiative,

Neighborhood Builders®, the largest corporate philanthropic investment in nonprofit leadership in the country. Alongside Charleston, the bank will bring the program to over 40 additional communities across the U.S. this fall as part of its commitment to investing in the long-term health of communities.
 
Metanoia (www.pushingforward.org) will receive $50,000 in grant support through the program and an opportunity for engagement in virtual leadership training delivered by experts in the nonprofit sector. Metanoia was selected as the 2020 Neighborhood Champion for their leadership and dedication to investing in assets that strengthen neighborhoods and develop opportunities that harness the capacity of the community’s citizens. This funding will support Metanoia’s efforts and programs within their three core areas of focus: creating a safe and nurturing place for children after school and during the summer; establishing quality, affordable housing; and the economic re-energizing of the Chicora-Cherokee neighborhood. Additionally, the opportunity for leadership training will strengthen Metanoia’s effectiveness in meeting current and future needs in its community.
 
Bank of America has a long-standing relationship with Metanoia. This summer, the bank sponsored the Metanoia Youth Leadership Academy’s (MYLA) “Bridge to the Future” program, which helps create access to first-generation post-secondary education opportunities. The partnership provided college preparedness training to the prospective first-generation college students who attend the MYLA programs to help prepare Metanoia’s young leaders as they embark on the next journey of their education and their lives.
 
“As we consider many of the challenges that our communities are facing – from the impacts of the coronavirus to the need for progress on racial equality and economic opportunity – the Neighborhood Champions program is a relevant and timely initiative to support the communities we serve,” said Mark Munn, Charleston/Hilton Head Market President for Bank of America. “This program enables partners like Metanoia to plan strategically for growth and long-term sustainability, and we look forward to seeing how this investment helps Metanoia make even greater strides in their mission to build leaders, establish quality housing and generate economic development.”
 
The Neighborhood Champions program is invitation-only for nonprofits who are poised to take their work to the next level. Leading members of the community participated in a collaborative selection process to identify this year’s awardee. Examples of the topics for the virtual leadership training awarded include human capital management, increasing financial sustainability, and storytelling.
 
“The Neighborhood Champion Grant could not have come to Metanoia at a better time.  The award is helping us not only survive but thrive in the midst of a challenging season,” said Bill Stanfield, CEO of Metanoia “We are encouraged by the financial support and mentorship that Bank of America is providing our efforts to invest in our neighborhood’s assets to build leaders, establish quality housing and generate economic development.”
 
Since the program’s inception last year, Bank of America has invested $4.2 million in 84 organizations within 42 communities through the Neighborhood Champions program. The Neighborhood Champions program in Charleston will strengthen the bank’s commitment to advancing economic mobility and nonprofit leadership.
 
Bank of America has supported Charleston in 2020 with over $700,000 to assist our community partners in providing services to those in need.

At Bank of America, we’re guided by a common purpose to help make financial lives better, through the power of every connection. We’re delivering on this through responsible growth with a focus on our environmental, social and governance (ESG) leadership. ESG is embedded across our eight lines of business and reflects how we help fuel the global economy, build trust and credibility, and represent a company that people want to work for, invest in and do business with. It’s demonstrated in the inclusive and supportive workplace we create for our employees, the responsible products and services we offer our clients, and the impact we make around the world in helping local economies thrive. An important part of this work is forming strong partnerships with nonprofits and advocacy groups, such as community, consumer and environmental organizations, to bring together our collective networks and expertise to achieve greater impact. Learn more at about.bankofamerica.com, and connect with us on Twitter (@BofA_News).
               
For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for email alerts.
 
www.bankofamerica.com

New York City Trained Personal Chef Offers Charleston Stay-at -Home Amazing Cuisine

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Omis Provisions is a new customized chef personalized service in Charleston, South Carolina. The owner, Mario is a New York-trained chef now calling Charleston home.

Services include:

  • Dinner parties for up to 12 people
  • Personal meals for 2-4
  • Delivery

Preset menus or custom menus available.

Brunch and dinner options

A server on staff as requested.

Ramen
Chicken Cacciatore
Hand-made pasta

Herb Steak, Sweet Potato Puree, Pickled Onions and Peppers, Seared Cherry Tomatoes, Cilantro and Lemon Foam
Cornish Game Hen w/ Salmoriglio
Eggs Pork Belly and Champagne
Tiramisu