Charleston Daily Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

The City of Charleston Recreation Department is excited to announce the launch of its new mobile app, now available for download. The app provides residents and visitors with a convenient way to access recreation services directly from their smartphones. This is part of an ongoing effort by Mayor Cogswell to modernize outdated city practices. 

Users can download the app by searching “City of Charleston Recreation” in their device’s app store or by following this link to open the app in Google Play or the App Store. 

The mobile app allows users to easily manage their recreation activities and accounts with several helpful features, including: 

• Registering for recreation programs, youth and adult athletics, and camps
• Making tee times for a round of golf
• Scanning membership barcodes to access pools and tennis centers
• Reserving facilities and athletic fields
• Managing account information and paying balances
• Receiving time-sensitive notifications, community event updates, and program registration reminders

The new app is designed to make it easier than ever for the community to stay connected with City of Charleston Recreation programs and facilities. 

Residents are encouraged to download the app and explore its features. To learn more, watch a short overview video demonstrating how to use the app.  

Additional resources and how-to videos are also available on the Recreation Mobile App webpage to help users get started.

Source: City of Charleston, SC

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The Citadel Bulldog Challenge may be one of the hardest and most rewarding events you can participate in this spring in Charleston, South Carolina.

What is the Bulldog Challenge and why should you participate?

• 10K (6.2 Miles)
• 10 stations – Obstacle Course, Warpath Mile, Amphibious Landing, Emerald Fire and Maneuver, Operation CASEVAC, Mt. Suribachi Ascent, The Devil Dog Trench, Combat Conditioning Ladder, Steel Reaper, Warrior’s Forge (MCMAP Station) and Kim’s Combat Recall
• Team competition approach
• 17th Annual Event – A true Lowcountry tradition

Event Details

• What: The Citadel Bulldog Challenge
• Where: The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina – 171 Moultrie Street, Charleston, SC 29409
• Where: Saturday, April 25, 2026 – 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Click HERE for tickets
• Official Event Website

On April 25, 2025, the Bulldog Challenge returns to The Citadel — and this isn’t your typical road race. This is 6.2 miles of grit, teamwork, and controlled chaos across campus and through Charleston.

Grab a team of 2 or 4 and move as a unit through ten demanding stations designed to test endurance, strength, and mental toughness. You’ll hit the obstacle course, climb stadium stairs, carry weight, flip tires, execute buddy carries, complete memory challenges under stress, and push through a final assault to the parade deck finish. You start together. You finish together.

No military experience is required. Civilians, service members, ROTC, students, weekend warriors — all are welcome. If you register solo, we’ll place you on a 4-person team. No one gets left behind.

Wear whatever you want — costumes and creative attire are encouraged, and there’s a prize for the most spirited team. Awards will be presented to top Civilian, Military, and ROTC teams in both 2-person and 4-person categories, along with participation prizes for all finishers.

Charleston, SC- March 11, 2026 — Charleston City Council voted Tuesday evening to defer consideration of potential regulations related to electric bicycles, or e-bikes, in order to allow for additional review, public input, and coordination with law enforcement. 

During the discussion, Traffic and Transportation Committee Chair Mike Seekings, who represents District 8, including downtown and Daniel Island, said the City must address e-bikes through its transportation ordinances, but noted that the current draft needs more work and refinement before moving forward. Seekings said the City first needs to clearly define what qualifies as an e-bike, distinguish lower speed pedal assist bicycles from higher powered motorized devices, and ensure any future regulations can be enforced effectively.  

Councilmember Boyd Gregg, who represents District 1, including Daniel Island, also emphasized the urgency of the issue, particularly in areas where e-bike and moped activity has become more visible and raised safety concerns. Gregg called attention to the need for additional enforcement using existing laws, especially where riders may already fall under moped regulations. 

To continue the discussion, City Council will hold a special meeting of the Traffic and Transportation Committee on March 24 focused exclusively on e-bike issues. The meeting will include public comment and participation from Charleston Police Chief Chito Walker and his team. 

Topics expected to be discussed include: 

• Establishing a clear definition of what constitutes an e-bike under city regulations 
• Distinguishing lower speed pedal assist bicycles from higher powered motorized devices such as mopeds 
• Determining where different types of e-bikes may operate, including multi-use paths and other shared pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure 
• Developing enforcement protocols and potential penalties 
• Exploring education efforts in coordination with law enforcement and local schools 

Council members noted that the issue has become particularly visible on Daniel Island, where the rapid growth of e-bike use among young riders has raised concerns about safety on both roadways and multi-use paths. 

Council also discussed the challenges created by Charleston’s varied infrastructure. Multi-use paths across the city differ significantly in width and design, and officials said those differences will need to be considered as the City evaluates where and how e-bikes can safely operate. 

Following the March 24 committee meeting, council members expect to bring back a revised proposal for consideration by the full City Council. 

For more information about upcoming meetings, visit charleston-sc.gov. 

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$42.5 million investment will create 85 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Cheney Brothers, a leading broadline food distributor, today announced it is expanding its Florence County operations with an additional $42.5 million investment that will create 85 new jobs.

Headquartered in Florida, Cheney Brothers processes and distributes a variety of food products across the United States, including meat and seafood, dairy, frozen food, and other dry groceries. The company also supplies food service equipment and offers kitchen and bar design services to its customers.

Cheney Brothers will expand its South Carolina distribution facility, located at 2491 Florence Harllee Blvd. in Florence, which first broke ground in 2023.

Operations are already online. Individuals interested in joining the Cheney Brothers team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Florence County to assist with the costs of site preparation and building construction.

QUOTES

“We have been greatly impressed by the business-friendly attitude of the state of South Carolina. We look forward to a long and very bright future, distributing product across the state.”  -Cheney Brothers CEO Byron Russell

“By adding 85 new jobs in Florence County, Cheney Brothers is deepening its investment in South Carolina and strengthening the local economy. This expansion will create new opportunities for hardworking South Carolinians and further reinforce our reputation as a place where businesses can succeed.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“With its investment of $42.5 million, Cheney Brothers’ expansion reflects the business-friendly environment here in the Palmetto State. Industrial growth in our key sectors supports South Carolina’s continued economic success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“When a company like Cheney Brothers doubles down on Florence, it’s a win for everyone. Cheney Brothers’ decision to grow here brings stable, high-quality career opportunities that will benefit Florence County residents for generations to come.” -Florence County Council Chairman Jerry Yarborough

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Cheney Brothers is expanding its operations in Florence County.
• The company’s $42.5 million expansion will create 85 additional new jobs.
• Cheney Brothers is a broadline food distributor.
• The company is located at 2491 Florence Harllee Blvd. in Florence, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Cheney Brothers team should visit the company’s careers page.

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Johns Island continues to be one of the fastest growing areas in the Charleston region. Buyers are drawn to its sprawling oak trees, expansive marsh views, and the relaxing pace of coastal living. While many shoppers focus on well known master planned communities, there are smaller pockets across the island that offer better value, more privacy, and a stronger connection to the natural Lowcountry landscape. A knowledgeable Real Estate Agent in Johns Island SC, like Heather Gregory, can help buyers discover these quiet gems that rarely show up on typical search results.

Below is a complete guide to the hidden neighborhoods that deserve more attention during your home search.

Cedar Springs: Lowcountry Character With Room To Breathe

Cedar Springs is a favorite for buyers who want a peaceful, established neighborhood with larger lots and natural buffers. The community is lined with mature oak trees and feels tucked away even though it is only minutes from Maybank Highway. Homes vary in style, giving the area a custom, timeless feel rather than a cookie cutter look.

Why buyers love Cedar Springs:

• Spacious lots with privacy
• Mature landscaping and tree canopy
• Easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, and local markets
• Strong long term property value due to limited inventory

Cedar Springs offers the classic Johns Island lifestyle that many newcomers imagine. It is ideal for buyers who want space, quiet, and a neighborhood that feels connected to nature.

Stonoview: Waterfront Living at an Attainable Price

Stonoview sits directly along the Stono River and offers a highly desirable waterfront lifestyle without the premium prices of Kiawah or Seabrook. The community feels active and outdoorsy, making it a great match for buyers who want access to the water, scenic trails, and a social neighborhood environment.

• Notable features in Stonoview:
• Deep water community dock
• Kayak and paddle board storage
• Walking and biking trails
• Riverside sunset views
• Resort style pool and pavilion

Homes in Stonoview hold their value well because neighborhoods with deep water access and riverfront amenities are limited on Johns Island. A local expert like Heather Gregory can point out which homes have the strongest long term position within the neighborhood.

Rushland Landing: Private, Upscale, and Immersed in Nature

Rushland Landing is one of the most visually stunning pockets on Johns Island. Surrounded by preserved wetlands and wildlife habitats, the neighborhood was designed to create harmony with the natural landscape. Homes tend to be elevated, custom built, and thoughtfully planned to take advantage of marsh and river views.

What makes Rushland Landing special:

• Protected natural surroundings and scenic marsh vistas
• Custom architecture rather than mass produced layouts
• Quiet streets and a private, upscale feel
• Close to James Island and downtown Charleston while still feeling secluded

Rushland Landing is a strong match for buyers relocating from out of state who want a luxury coastal lifestyle without entering a large or crowded subdivision.

Gift Plantation: A Historic Setting With Modern Appeal

Gift Plantation sits along the Intracoastal Waterway and blends historic Lowcountry charm with modern homes. It features larger properties, stately oak trees, and amenities that appeal to long term residents.

Appealing features include:

• • A community dock on the intracoastal
• Tennis courts and a neighborhood pool
• Larger homes with generous acreage
• Peaceful setting with easy access to Charleston and the beaches

This community is ideal for buyers who want a more traditional, upscale atmosphere with space and privacy.

Swygert’s Landing: A Coastal Village Feel

Swygert’s Landing is a well kept secret for buyers who want curb appeal, community amenities, and a neighbor friendly atmosphere without entering a massive master planned development. It offers charming coastal architectural styles, front porches, and a walkable layout.

Why it is overlooked but valuable:

• Attractive price points for the island
• Charming coastal design with strong visual appeal
• Community pool and playground
• Quick access to restaurants on Maybank Highway

Swygert’s Landing works well for first time buyers and families who want a beautiful home in a community with personality.

Why These Hidden Neighborhoods Matter

While Johns Island continues to grow, the most desirable pockets are the ones that offer privacy, charm, and natural beauty. Larger planned communities attract most of the attention, but buyers often find their perfect match in these quieter, lesser known areas. Many of these neighborhoods have stronger resale value because they are limited in size, offer unique features, or sit in scenic locations that cannot be replicated.

A trusted Real Estate Agent in Johns Island SC like Heather Gregory can help buyers understand the pros and cons of each pocket, review flood zones, evaluate long term value, and locate homes that align with lifestyle and budget goals.

Start Your Johns Island Home Search With Local Insight

Whether you are relocating from out of state or moving within the Charleston area, working with an agent who knows the island on a deeper level ensures you do not miss the neighborhoods that offer the best opportunities. Heather Gregory brings local knowledge, negotiation experience, and a strong understanding of the island’s hidden gems.

Source: Heather Gregory Realtor

Prophet Coffee, located at 194 Jackson Street on the Eastside has announced their location closing in April, 2026.

In an Instagram message written out of love, the team shared:

“Small business is crazy. One day you’re celebrating your third anniversary, and then next you’re announcing bad news. Some projects just don’t pan out the way you’d hoped.

Can’t thank our staff enough. To our amazing customers, regulars, dogs, and that one burglar. We will miss you everyday. 

Can’t be too sad. Things happen for a reason. We have a lot of really great things going for us, and we’re very excited to focus on those. 

Starting next week, downtown will begin limited hours as some of our staff transition onto new things.

*Wed-Sun 8-1pm*

We’ll be closing up shop mid-late April, and obviously throwing a party. Date TBD!

Looking forward to seeing all of you over the next few weeks to celebrate such a beautiful space we’ve gotten to call home over the last 6 months.

With that being said, 194 Jackson St. Is available for lease. Shoot an email to Bryson@prophet-coffee.com and let’s talk. 

Downtown, this isn’t goodbye, but see you later 😉

STAY BLESSED
PROPHET
XOXO”

We love y’all and know you aren’t going away.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. –Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. and Northwood Investors LLC and its affiliates are excited to announce plans for a new Wegmans location on the Ballantyne® campus. Known for its unmatched customer service, restaurant foods, one-stop shopping and consistent low prices, the popular grocer will be situated at North Community House Road on the east side of Ballantyne. Wegmans is targeting opening by the third quarter of 2026.

“Four years after opening our first store in North Carolina, we’re excited to announce that Wegmans is coming to Charlotte,” said Dan Aken, vice president of real estate and store planning. “We’ve received hundreds of requests from locals asking for a store in their area, and we’ve spent years looking for exactly the right location. We’re thrilled to bring the Wegmans experience to this community.”

At approximately 110,000 square feet, Wegmans’ Ballantyne location will feature all the traditional departments Wegmans customers have come to know and love, including an abundant produce department, a wide variety of seafood, meat, bakery, deli, and cheese options, and a large selection of wine and beer. In addition, the store will have a market café with indoor and outdoor seating for customers to enjoy Wegmans delicious restaurant foods.

“As we’ve continued to enhance the offerings all across Ballantyne, we’ve seen the need for a more experiential grocer in the community,” said Clifton Coble, senior vice president of development for Northwood Office. “Wegmans, of course, was top of mind. We recognize how beloved it is throughout the East Coast and North Carolina and are ecstatic for it to join our tenant mix.”

A premier family-owned supermarket, Wegmans boasts choice, quality and value in every aisle. Its chefs make fresh, delicious meals throughout the day and shoppers are invited to engage with the team’s culinary experts to discuss the preparation of meals, pairings and ingredients. The grocer also provides an unmatched variety of different fruits and vegetables on any given day, including many organic choices. Each location builds strong partnerships with nearby growers and, in season, offers locally grown produce picked daily and delivered directly to the store.

Wegmans is also known for its high-quality seafood and sushi, meats, baked goods, deli, beer, and foods from around the world. Additional offerings include Meals2Go and catering, online shopping capabilities, a floral shop, coffee, home and entertaining options, and family packs.

From its position on North Community House Road, Wegmans will be less than a half mile from Ballantyne’s highly anticipated mixed-use development, The Bowl at Ballantyne™, where tenants including Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, North Italia, Flower Child, Harriet’s Hamburgers, Roosters and more are set to open this year.

To learn more about how Ballantyne continues to evolve, visit goballantyne.com or follow its Facebook and Instagram or contact Kelly Walsh, 585-765-5162, kelly@evolveprandmarketing.com.

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Recognized internationally as one of the most successfully designed and executed mixed-use communities, the Ballantyne® campus is a 2,000-acre community in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Ballantyne® area features thousands of apartments, over 1,000 single-family homes, the highest-rated public schools, nearly 600 hotel rooms, 20+ miles of walking paths and bike lanes plus a greenway extension, over 100 acres of parks and green space, as well as dozens of restaurants, medical and retail amenities. With a laser-sharp focus on providing the nation’s most desirable work-life balance community, Northwood Office owns and manages 4.5 million square feet of Class A office space at Ballantyne® with additional entitlements in place on the 535-acre property. Efforts to create a more urban, walkable environment include The Bowl at Ballantyne™, home to a well-curated lineup of restaurants, shops and services opening in 2024. Visit goballantyne.com for the latest community happenings, project updates and leasing availabilities.

Interested in a career at this location? Click HERE.

Photo Source: Wegmans

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TOP SOUTHERN CITIES, BEACH GETAWAYS, BARBECUE JOINTS, GOLF DESTINATIONS, AND MORE REVEALED AS SOUTHERN LIVING CELEBRATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA MARKS A DECADE AT NO. 1 AS SOUTH’S BEST CITY

NEW YORK and BIRMINGHAM, Ala., March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Southern Living announces the winners of its tenth annual South’s Best Awards. In its 60th anniversary year, Southern Living once again turned to its trusted readers to name the South’s very best destinations, accommodations, and culinary experiences. Full coverage of the South’s Best Award winners will appear in the April issue of Southern Living, on sale March 20 and online now.

This year’s survey reveals the South’s Best Cities, Top Beach Getaways, Top Classic Restaurants, Top New Hotels, Top Inns, Top Legendary Restaurants, Top Barbecue Joints in Each State, and more. For the first time, the awards also recognize Top Golf Destinations, expanding to highlight cities and towns with bucket list-worthy courses.

Golden Isles, Georgia takes the winning spot in the Top Beach Getaway category, while Charleston, South Carolina remains the South’s Best City, marking a decade at the top of the South’s Best rankings thanks to its rich culture, celebrated culinary scene, and historic charm.

“If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the past 60 years, it’s that we can trust our readers to know the South better than anyone,” said Sid Evans, Editor-in-Chief of Southern Living. “For our 10th annual South’s Best Awards, we turned to them once again to highlight the destinations and experiences that make the South so special.”

The April issue also debuts a reimagined Southern Living — a fitting way to kick off the magazine’s 60th anniversary year. The new look reflects the energy, charm, and sophistication of the modern South while honoring the storytelling and traditions readers have loved for six decades.

Highlights of Southern Living’s 2026 South’s Best Awards survey results are as follows:

South’s Best Cities – Top 10

1. Charleston, SC
2. Savannah, GA
3. Asheville, NC
4. Nashville, TN
5. New Orleans, LA
6. Lexington, KY
7. Wilmington, NC
8. Chattanooga, TN
9. Greenville, SC
10. St. Petersburg, FL

Top Golf Destinations

1. Pinehurst, NC
2. Hilton Head Island, SC
3. Sea Island, GA
4. Kiawah Island, SC
5. Myrtle Beach, SC

Top New Hotels

1. The Flat Iron Hotel – Asheville, NC
2. The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort – Longboat Key, FL
3. The Gilmore – Nashville, TN
4. Embers Hotel – Blowing Rock, NC
5. Hotel Richemont – Charleston, SC

South’s Best Barbecue Joints – Winner in Each State
Alabama: Dreamland Bar-B-Que (Tuscaloosa)
Arkansas: Wright’s Barbeque (Johnson)
Florida: Big John’s Alabama BBQ (Tampa)
Georgia: Southern Soul Barbeque (St. Simons Island)
Kentucky: Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn (Owensboro)
Louisiana: The Joint (New Orleans)
Maryland: Blue Pit BBQ & Whiskey Bar (Baltimore)
Mississippi: The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint (Ocean Springs)
Missouri: Jack Stack Barbecue (Kansas City)
North Carolina: Lexington Barbecue (Lexington)
Oklahoma: Swadley’s Bar-B-Q (Bethany)
South Carolina: Lewis Barbecue (Charleston)
Tennessee: Peg Leg Porker (Nashville)
Texas: Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
Virginia: Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que (Williamsburg)
West Virginia: Rollin’ Smoke BBQ (Charleston)

For the full results and methodology from Southern Living’s 2026 South’s Best survey, including the lists of winners in every category, visit SouthernLiving.com.

SOURCE People Inc.

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$39.6 million investment will create 57 new jobs

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Shamrock Technologies, Inc. (Shamrock), a global leader in specialty additives, today announced it is relocating its corporate headquarters as part of the company’s expansion in Laurens County. The company’s $39.6 million investment will create 57 new jobs.

Shamrock produces and distributes micronized wax and other specialty additives used in coatings, inks, greases and lubricants. The company established operations in South Carolina in 2022 with the purchase of a manufacturing facility that produces micronized wax, dispersions, emulsions and related products.

Shamrock’s new facility will be located at 101 Connexial Blvd. in Gray Court. Upon completion of offices, research and development labs, a pilot plant, and a fully functioning warehouse and production space, the company will relocate its New Jersey headquarters to the South Carolina site.

Some operations are expected to be online by the end of 2027, with all phases completed by the end of 2030. Individuals interested in joining the Shamrock team should visit the company’s careers page or contact recruiting@shamrocktechnologies.com. 

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES
 

“Shamrock Technologies is proud to continue investing in our South Carolina operations as we build the future home of our company. For 85 years, our growth has been driven by strong partnerships and a commitment to people, and we look forward to deepening those ties as we expand in Gray Court. We appreciate the support of South Carolina and Laurens County leaders, whose commitment to business and community makes this next chapter possible.” -Shamrock Technologies, Inc. CEO Michael Kellen

“Shamrock’s decision to expand in Laurens County is another vote of confidence in South Carolina’s talented workforce and pro-business climate. We are proud to see companies succeed here and look forward to Shamrock’s continued success as they bring 57 new jobs to our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster 

“With an investment of $39.6 million, Shamrock’s expansion in Laurens County demonstrates the advantages that South Carolina offers to growing businesses. The company’s new headquarters, alongside its expanded manufacturing capabilities and production facilities, will support economic development in South Carolina.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Laurens County is pleased to welcome Shamrock Technologies’ headquarters to our community. Their expansion is a testament to our business-friendly environment and our strong workforce. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Shamrock into the future.” -Laurens County Council Chairman Jeff Carroll

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Shamrock Technologies, Inc. (Shamrock) will be relocating its corporate headquarters as part of its Laurens County expansion.
• The company’s $39.6 million investment will create 57 new jobs.
• Shamrock is a global leader in specialty additives.
• The company’s new headquarters will be located at 101 Connexial Blvd. in Gray Court, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Shamrock team should visit the company’s careers page or contact recruiting@shamrocktechnologies.com.

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Much of the focus is on museums and monuments as America approaches its 250th anniversary, but some of the most authentic threads of the American story are being told through music—and Greater Boone, NC, truly has a soundtrack.

Doc Watson went from playing for change on Boone’s streets to becoming a seven‑time Grammy winner, and his influence still hums through town. That story now echoes across the High Country in banjos on porches, Scottish fiddle tunes in mountain valleys and “traditional plus” festival stages where roots, bluegrass, folk, old‑time and Americana all share the bill.

• Traditions that Play On: In Valle Crucis, the Jink & Diddle Fiddle School (the oldest traditional Scottish fiddling school in the U.S.) keeps centuries‑old tunes alive in the same hills where Scots‑Irish sounds helped shape Appalachian music. Paired with events like the Doc & Rosa Lee Watson MusicFest and local museum exhibits, it’s an unusually rich window into how those early influences evolved into what we now group under Americana.
• Today’s Stages + How to Visit: The High Country’s calendar reads like a curated playlist: MerleFest in late April, the High Country Jazz Festival in early summer—followed by the free Boonerang Music & Arts Festival in downtown Boone and Beech Mountain’s Summer Concert Series—and songwriter‑forward events like Antlers & Acorns in September. It’s a rare mix of marquee festivals and intimate, low‑cost community events that give travelers multiple ways to plug into the region’s music throughout the year.
• Crafted by Hand: Even the instruments tell the story. At Capozzoli Guitar Company, luthier Chris Capozzoli builds custom guitars from reclaimed barn wood and cross‑sections of the historic Tweetsie Railroad, turning local history into playable art and tying the region’s maker culture directly to its sound.