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Lowcountry

BCDCOG Adds Loan Administrator to Staff

September 29, 2020 by 0 Comments
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NEW HIRE WILL ASSIST IN ADMINISTRATION OF CARES ACT FUNDING
NORTH CHARLESTON (Sept. 29, 2020) – The Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG) is pleased to announce Melanie Pasheluk has joined its staff as a loan administrator.

Pasheluk will primarily work to facilitate the loan process and maintain the agency’s Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding, including the recently established

BCDCOG CARES RLF.

“Melanie brings considerable experience to her position as loan administrator,” said BCDCOG Executive Director Ron Mitchum. “She has an excellent track record and we are pleased to have her join our team as we work to assist local business owners in the BCDCOG CARES RLF process.”

Prior to joining the BCDCOG, Pasheluk worked in the banking industry with a focus on loan processing and administration. She graduated from the College of Charleston in 2011 with a degree in psychology and Spanish.

“I am very excited to join an organization that is actively working to support and empower regional businesses,” said Pasheluk. “Knowing that these funds have the potential to offer a lifeline to many businesses affected by COVID-19 makes the work that much more important.”

BCDCOG was recently awarded $560,000 in CARES Act funding by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA). The federal money is being used to capitalize the BCDCOG CARES RLF, aimed at stimulating long-term, private-sector investment and employment in the region.

To learn more about the BCDCOG CARES RLF or to begin the application process, visit bcdcog.com/bcdcogcares. Questions can be directed to Melanie Pasheluk at (843) 529-2573 or melaniep@bcdcog.com.

ABOUT BCDCOG:

The BCDCOG is a voluntary association of, by and for local governments, and was established to assist Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester county leaders in planning for common needs, cooperating for mutual benefit, and coordinating for sound regional development. BCDCOG’s purpose is to strengthen the individual and collective power of local governments and to help them recognize regional opportunities, eliminate unnecessary duplication, and make joint decisions.

For the latest on BCDCOG, visit www.bcdcog.com, like us on Facebook or follow on Twitter at @BDCCoG.

Lowcountry

South Carolina House of Representatives Recognizes Carolina Youth Development Center 230 Year Anniversary

September 28, 2020 by 0 Comments
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COLUMBIA, SC — The South Carolina House of Representatives recognized Carolina Youth Development Center’s (CYDC) 230 year anniversary by approving H. 5563. The resolution, introduced by Representative Marvin Pendarvis (D) and Representative Sylleste Davis (R), commemorates the organization’s anniversary which takes place on October 18, 2020. 

“CYDC has been a strong presence in the Charleston community, serving our state’s most vulnerable children and youth for more than two centuries,” said Representative Pendarvis. “This organization has worked hard to overcome struggles and challenges to ensure voices of the underserved are heard and I am honored to take part in celebrating their success.”

On October 18, 1790, the city of Charleston passed an ordinance that established the Charleston Orphan House for the purpose of supporting and educating the city’s orphaned youth. The non-profit officially changed its name to the Carolina Youth Development Center in 1978 but continued its long-practiced mission of protecting children, empowering families and preparing youth for adulthood. For nearly two and a half centuries, CYDC has served South Carolina children and families.

“Recognizing our community’s history is important and I am excited to celebrate CYDC’s impact in the Berkeley community,” said Representative Davis. “Their dedicated staff and committed volunteers help support our children and deserve recognition for their continued efforts!” 

CYDC’s mission is to protect children, empower families and prepare youth for adulthood by providing a safe environment, educational support, and career readiness in collaboration with families and community partners. The organization provides services to more than 800 children and families and housing for up to 48 residents across two campuses in North Charleston and Berkeley counties.

In celebration of their 230th anniversary, CYDC will hold a virtual Birthday Bash on their Facebook page from October 13th -18th. The celebration will also include a ribbon-cutting at the new Family Support Center, located in the George Williams Building on CYDC’s North Charleston campus. 

The virtual celebrations allow members of the community to celebrate 230 years of CYDC from wherever they are! For more information on CYDC’s history and a detailed list of events, please visit CYDC.org.

About Carolina Youth Development Center:
Founded in 1790 as the Charleston Orphan House, Carolina Youth Development Center’s mission is to empower and equip our community’s children by providing a safe environment, educational support, and career readiness, in collaboration with families and community partners. Our vision is that all children have loving and stable families and a nurturing community that empowers them to lead successful lives. For more information visit CYDC.org.

Lowcountry

Exclusive New Listing: Old Mount Pleasant, SC Charming Home: 436 Church Street

September 26, 2020 by 0 Comments
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Beyond spectacular. Circa 1850s, this architectural wonder in the prime location of Mount Pleasant’s Old Village boasts a full renovation, yet maintains sophisticated historic charm. The unparalleled beauty of this 3,305-sq.-ft. home, with five bedrooms and 3.5 baths, now has every modern amenity. Sitting on a property of nearly half an acre, this gem has stood the test of time

At the entrance, the home’s iconic character is breathtaking as your eye takes in a glorious working fireplace and a stylish sea of heart pine floors. Enter the harbor gourmet kitchen, where 10-ft. ceilings allow for streams of natural light. Luxurious Carerra Marble countertops and a grand butler pantry work together for the perfect finish

While you’re minutes away from the Shem Creek waterfront district, where locals love to dine, your own outdoor space provides the perfect entertaining area or place to
unwind. The 760 square feet of double portico porches feature elegant touches such as traditional gas lanterns. Tasteful landscaping can become whatever you imagine. Make this grand backyard your canvas with a luxurious pool, outdoor kitchen or guest house

What about the 1870-sq.ft. basement? Nothing average here. Whether you choose to set up your hobby shop, turn it into the ultimate game room or create a grand party space, your vision is its command. This rare residence is near the beaches of Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms and is walking distance to trendy downtown and Pitt Street Bridge. Your chance to own a gorgeous piece of Charleston history.

Listing Agent: Bradham Wilder with ERA Wilder Realty  –  843-212-2290  bradham@erawilderrealty.com

Full Listing Details

Lowcountry

You are never alone: SC Hopes is a hotline if you need to talk about depression, mental health or addiction support

September 25, 2020 by 0 Comments
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No matter how challenging the times, you are not alone in South Carolina, thanks to SC-HOPES, an anonymous support line connecting you with an experienced team of mental health and addiction counselors.

We are ready to help if you are overwhelmed by COVID-19 challenges, feeling overly stressed or anxious, coping with a natural disaster, struggling with addiction, feeling depressed, and don’t know where to turn.

Call 844 SC HOPES when you need to talk. SC HOPES, mental health, and addiction support for challenging times.

Lowcountry

DHEC, DAODAS Provide Resources for Preventing Opioid Overdoses in South Carolina

September 24, 2020 by 0 Comments
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COLUMBIA, S.C. — A health advisory issued yesterday by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) offers preventive strategies for prescribers and prescription drug dispensers across the state to address increased opioid overdoses since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although suspected overdose numbers have decreased since May, rates remain 50 percent higher than this time last year. The reports from South Carolina reflect national trends of increased opioid overdoses throughout the pandemic. DHEC expects COVID-19 will contribute to an elevated risk of overdoses in the coming months.

“We closely monitor suspected opioid overdose reports in every county across the state and coordinate with prevention partners to support local response efforts,” said Emma Kennedy, director of DHEC’s Division of Injury and Substance Abuse Prevention. “This collaborative effort enables state-level staff to engage county-level counterparts in high-burden areas to encourage targeted response efforts.”

Since March, South Carolina has seen a steady increase in suspected opioid overdoses and first responder Narcan® administrations over last year. In May alone, EMS personnel responded to an estimated 915 suspected opioid overdoses in South Carolina, the highest monthly number in the state’s history, and nearly twice that reported for May 2019. Year-to-date preliminary data suggests an upward trend in overdoses from both prescribed and illicitly manufactured substances and overdoses involving other drugs like benzodiazepines but is not conclusive. 

“Even in these times when we’ve had to hit ‘pause’ on so many parts of everyday life, treatment is still available throughout the state,” said Lee Dutton, Chief of Staff for the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS). “Our local service providers are delivering effective and safe care for patients via telephone and telehealth in areas where on-site services are reduced or eliminated during the COVID-19 crisis.”

Dutton emphasized that treatment services are available in South Carolina through DAODAS’ system of state-licensed and nationally accredited service providers. For information on how to access treatment in our state, call 803-896-5555, or if you are experiencing substance use issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, call the 24/7 support line at 1-844-SC-HOPES.

DHEC, DAODAS, and other organizations have additional resources available to learn more about opioid misuse and overdose prevention:

  • For resources on overdose prevention, finding a recovery provider, pain management, and overdose data, visit www.justplainkillers.com 
     
  • Naloxone, an opioid overdose antidote, is available without a prescription. For patients with insurance or payment concerns, many community distributors offer free doses of Narcan®. For more information visit naloxonesavessc.org
     
  • Medication disposal sites are available for unused prescriptions. For a location near you at justplainkillers.com/drug-safety
     
  • During the upcoming National Prescription Take Back Day on Oct 24, additional locations will be available for the safe, convenient, and responsible disposal of unused or expired prescription drugs. A complete list of locations will be available and posted in the coming weeks at takebackday.dea.gov
     
  • Additional information about DHEC opioid prevention programs for families and community organizations is available at www.scdhec.gov/opioid-epidemic
     
  • Healthcare providers can help identify and intervene with patients at risk for psychosocial or healthcare problems related to substance use using the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model 

“There are many resources available to help prevent, respond, and treat opioid use disorder,” Kennedy said. “We encourage people to use these resources to learn about the risks of opioids, about opioid antidotes and where to get them and learn how to help people struggling with opioid use disorder find the right care and treatment. Everyone has a role to play.”

DHEC’s efforts to address opioid overdoses in South Carolina also include:

  •  DHEC’s Division of EMS created the Law Enforcement Officer Naloxone (LEON) and Reduction of Opioid Loss of Life (ROLL) programs to train law enforcement and fire department agencies across South Carolina to identify, treat and report drug overdoses attributed to opioids. These response initiatives have made a significant impact across the state. As of July 31, officers and firefighters reported 574 Narcan administrations for suspected overdoses through these programs.
  • The Community Opioid Paramedic Education or COPE program is a post-overdose outreach program in which Narcan-rescued individuals are assessed for wellness, given harm reduction information, offered an HIV and Hepatitis C test, and are provided access to treatment. 
  • Participating in the state’s Opioid Emergency Response Team (OERT) and leads leading prevention and response activities for the team. Since April 2020, a Rapid Response Team has monitored data from the Bureau of EMS and Trauma on suspected opioid overdoses at the state level. This group issues bulletins on behalf of the OERT to key stakeholder groups for situational awareness. The collaborative effort enables state-level staff to engage county-level counterparts in high-burden areas to encourage targeted response efforts.
  • DHEC partners with healthcare systems to provide opioid-related education for doctors and health care providers, including training of more than 700 providers to date.
Lowcountry

Charleston’s Pink Cactus Giving Back for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in a Beautiful Way

September 24, 2020 by 0 Comments
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Pink Cactus, located at 100 Spring Street, Charleston, SC is giving back from October 1-31 for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Pink Cactus will be donating 100% of all proceeds from the Oaxacan Fizz cocktail made with mezcal, Pure Fluff cotton candy, beets, and hibiscus to Pure Fluff Owner Arielle Statton from October 1-31. 

Arielle is currently going through stage 3 Breast Cancer and all proceeds will go towards her chemo treatments and personal healthcare.

Lowcountry

Charleston Commercial Adds Several Key Downtown Properties to Its Listings Portfolio Retail, restaurant, office spaces up for sale, lease

September 23, 2020 by 0 Comments
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CHARLESTON, S.C. — Charleston Commercial, a key player in the downtown Charleston real estate market, has listed several well-established downtown properties for sale or lease. 

The company has created a portfolio of properties, including 153 East Bay St., 155 East Bay St. and 2 Unity Alley. This portfolio of distinct, yet interconnected, buildings are available as an $8 million package or can be purchased individually. Located in the French Quarter district, these properties are high-end and can be used as restaurants or repositioned into a retail, office or residential spaces. 

McCrady’s Tavern at 2 Unity Alley has long been known as one of Charleston’s favorite fine dining establishments with a history dating back to the 1700s. The property — almost 9,000 square feet — spans three floors with a full-service restaurant on the ground level and a second-floor open-air venue. The third floor houses administrative offices and wine storage. 

The property at 153 East Bay St. is more than 5,600 square feet. This three-story mixed-use building is anchored by Pearlz Oyster Bar on the first floor. The second floor has a separate entrance and commercial elevator, which was most recently used by restaurant and bar Minero. This vaulted space with exposed brick and natural light is also suitable for office use. 

The third property in this portfolio is 155 East Bay St. With more than 3,000 square feet, it’s a three-story mixed-use building. The first floor was formerly occupied by McCrady’s Counter, an experiential restaurant catering to small groups. The second floor was most recently used as a commercial kitchen, but can be used for office space and has a separate entrance. The third floor could be used as an office or residential space. 

“We are thrilled to offer these three incredible properties as one listing,” said Joshua Schaap, managing director for Charleston Commercial. “Even though these spaces are distinct, they flow together so well that it made sense to put them together under one umbrella listing. Someone is going to grab three terrific properties in the heart of Charleston’s busy tourist area.” 

Charleston Commercial also has listed for lease the corner retail space at 328 King St. This unique space features wrap-around storefront windows, high ceilings and two mezzanines. It most recently was home to Jos. A. Bank. This property is strategically located at the corner of King and George streets and across from the Roost Boutique Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel currently under construction

Also available for lease is another high-end property at 438 King St. The first -floor retail space has floor-to-ceiling storefront windows, high ceilings and a mezzanine. This space opens into a courtyard for additional retail or event space.

The second- and third-floor office space at 438 King St. features hardwood floors, high ceilings, wrap-around porches and windows with views of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. This historically restored property is one block from Marion Square and Hotel Bennett. A parking lot is available on-site. 

Charleston Commercial has brokered several high-profile and complex commercial real estate deals across the Lowcountry. Over the summer, Charleston Commercial brokered the sale of iconic Shem Creek eatery R.B.’s Seafood Restaurant for $7 million.

Over the last three years, Charleston Commercial has brokered or participated in 19 property acquisitions in downtown Charleston, totaling more than $74 million. The company was part of one of the largest deals of the last decade, consisting of eight properties from six property owners in a landmark deal bordered by King, Society and George streets. 

“Our experience with iconic properties and historic buildings has allowed us to positively shape the face of Charleston,” said C. Kendrick. “Our work on complex zoning issues, utilities and historic properties gives us an edge when it comes to facilitating commercial real estate sales, acquisitions and developments in the Lowcountry’s most historic areas.” 

About Charleston Commercial
Charleston Commercial is a fully integrated commercial real estate group located in Charleston, S.C., specializing in commercial brokerage and asset management for a wide range of property types, including retail, medical office, office, multi-family, hospitality, urban infill, and industrial properties. The firm offers a broad range of incorporated services to see assignments through from start to finish. Services range from market prospecting, acquisition, value creation (including entitlements, zoning, approvals, and development oversight), leasing, asset management, and disposition. Reach Charleston Commercial at 843-670-5727. 

Lowcountry

The Vendue Offering a Nevermore Limited Edition Package themed for Edgar Allan Poe this October

September 23, 2020 by 0 Comments
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THE VENDUE UNVEILS NEW HALLOWEEN THEMED OCTOBER PACKAGE

The new Nevermore Package will immerse guests in the works of Edgar Allan Poe – During the entire month of October, The Vendue is offering a nightly one-of-a-kind experience surrounding one of Charleston’s most mysterious dwellers, Edgar Allan Poe, with their Nevermore Package.

This exclusive package is only available in one guest room of the hotel. The room has been outfitted with period décor and curiosities from several of Poe’s short stories and poems.

Details of the Package

Spend a night like one of Charleston’s most mysterious dwellers, Edgar Allan Poe. The Nevermore package includes an imaginative escape for two themed around the dark works of Poe. Package Highlights:

  • Special Accommodations with In-room Fireplace
  • Complimentary Valet Parking
  • In-room Cognac & Welcome Amenity
  • $100 Revival Dining Credit
  • Memorable Turndown Offering

Click Here to Book a Reservation

Don’t be afraid of this eerie experience. Remember, “all that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream.”

Edgar Allan Poe’s connection to the Charleston area dates back to 1827 when he was stationed at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island. Little is known about Poe’s thirteen-month stint at Fort Moultrie, but his time on Sullivan’s Island inspired the setting of one of his most well-known short stories “The Gold Bug.”

“With so much turmoil transpiring throughout everyone’s lives over the past seven months, we wanted to inject a little fun and wonderment for our guests and staff to experience,” said Kris Altman, the hotel’s marketing representative. “What better way than to embrace some of Charleston’s mysterious history during the spooky month of October and create a package full of sensory surprises to bring some excitement back in our lives –even if it’s just for a night.

”The Nevermore Package includes an imaginative escape for two themed around the dark works of Poe. Package highlights include complimentary valet parking, in-room cognac & special welcome amenity, $100 dining credit to the hotel’s restaurant, Revival, and a memorable turndown offering.

Of course, there will be plenty of surprises along the way. Though, there is no need to be afraid of this eerie experience. Remember, as Poe so eloquently stated, “all that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream.”

The Venue is located at 19 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC. For more details about the Nevermore Package, visit thevendue.com/nevermore

Lowcountry

Charleston Non-Profit Spotlight: Homeless Period Project: Lowcountry

September 22, 2020 by 0 Comments
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he Homeless Period Project is a 501(c)(3) organization – HPP donates to over 100 facilities in South Carolina monthly –

Homeless Period Projects provides feminine menstrual hygiene products to homeless women, shelters, resettled refugees, schools, free medical clinics, food banks, Red Cross, and other organizations

Homeless Period Project also has chapters in North Carolina, Georgia, and Connecticut

If you would like to learn more, join or donate, please check out their Homeless Period Project Lowcountry Facebook Page

They also partner with the Lowcountry Blessing Box Project who has an Amazon Donation Page if you would like to provide products for distribution

Click Here for Amazon Collaboration Page