The Black Door Cafe, located inside the Historic Mills House Hotel (115 Meeting Street) is celebrating its 3rd birthday with a bang: An All-Day Party.
Come by on Friday, June 27, 2025 from 6:30 AM (it is a coffee shop) to 8:00 PM for so much caffinated fun!!! ☕️🤪🎉🎂🥳🎊
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By Mark A Leon
We are so excited to announce the grand opening of Let’s Mochi Donuts in Mount Pleasant, SC that we can hardly contain our sweet tooth. This new vibrant dessert shop will be located at 644 Long Point Road inside the Bell Hall Shopping Center with hours seven days a week.
Come by and enjoy chewy, colorful mochi donuts, refreshing boba tea and so much more.
New Dessert Shop Details
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Following the acclaim of The Pinch and Lowland, Method Co. debuts their second hotel concept for the city designed in collaboration with Morris Adjmi Architects, blending historic charm with modern details
Charleston, South Carolina (June 11, 2025) – The acclaimed hospitality company Method Co. announces the official opening of their latest project, The Nickel Hotel. Situated on Charleston’s historic King Street in partnership with renowned New York-based architecture and interior design studio, Morris Adjmi Architects, and national real estate firm Capital Square, the 50-room hotel introduces a guest experience that’s both refined and refreshing to the city, featuring elegantly-designed rooms and suites, and lively communal spaces including a lush interior courtyard, a library, private event space and listening room, guest-only cocktail bar, and soon-to-open rooftop lounge which will be open to the public.
Following the success of its sister property, The Pinch, The Nickel Hotel is a new modern boutique in Charleston’s Cannonborough neighborhood. Designed by celebrated Morris Adjmi Architects in collaboration with Method Co.’s in-house design team, Method Studios, The Nickel Hotel melds Charleston’s design traditions with contemporary influences, taking cues from the city’s historic architecture and ornate ironwork. The Nickel also refers to the property’s location on the 500 block of King Street and ultimately celebrates the idea of time well spent.
“The Nickel Hotel is located in the Cannonborough neighborhood, which is filled with great restaurants, cool coffee shops and independent stores,” says Randall Cook, CEO of Method Co. “It’s exciting to be in the center of this area with so many creatives and young people – both locals and visitors alike.”
The lobby, situated directly on King Street, is a layered, contemporary interpretation of a Southern townhome’s interiors, featuring a hand-clipped European marble mosaic entry sign, honed gray and white checkerboard honed marble floor, and hand painted porcelain plaster – found in many of Charleston’s historic buildings – on the walls and ceiling, while a large antique French tapestry hangs in the lobby.
At the heart of the hotel lies the courtyard, serving as the property’s lush living room for guests to congregate. Drawing from the European influence embedded in Charleston’s architectural DNA, the courtyard features three stories of ornate wrought iron balconies, a palette of earthy terra cottas, a prominent wood-burning fireplace and a two-tiered fountain at its center, all draped in lush greenery and bathed in soft lighting from surrounding gas copper lanterns, creating a serene sanctuary off the bustling King Street. Overlooking the courtyard on the third floor is The Parlour, a private event space and listening room complete with a selection of vinyl. The intimate space boasts a club-like atmosphere, featuring oak herringbone flooring and leather and oak shelving with a large private balcony for either informal gatherings or work meetings.
The Nickel also features multiple distinct food and beverage venues, including Bar Daniel, a private guest lounge on the second floor, named after Daniel Cannon, a carpenter who founded the Cannonborough neighborhood. Serving guests throughout the day, the lounge transitions from a quiet place for espresso to a buzzy space for late-night cocktails. Meanwhile, the top floor will be home to Rosemary Rose, a rooftop lounge and bar with 360 views of Charleston, which will be open to the public later this summer. Inspired by the sun-filled ease of the French Riviera lifestyle, Rosemary Rose will offer light bites and a curated selection of cocktails in an outdoor space furnished with hacienda-style wrought iron lounge furniture and zellige tile tables made by Moroccan artisans, while an arched bar anchors the interior, complemented by intimate dining and lounge seating with custom-designed banquettes and expansive windows.
With guest rooms designed to evoke the comforts of home, each spacious room and suite features a full-size kitchen with built-in Bosch appliances, decorative aged bronze cabinet hardware, and honed marble countertops, in addition to a dining space, lounge area, and LG washer and dryer. Method Studios custom-designed furniture for the rooms, including the beds, sofas, media credenzas, armoires, and nightstands, while additional design features such as Gubi coffee tables, herringbone oak flooring, House of Hackney wallpaper, and Nordic Knot Scandinavian rugs, complete the look. Bathrooms feature a pop of color through tonal green wall tile and hand-glazed porcelain floor tiles in an encaustic clover pattern. Guests can choose their preferred view, either of the lush courtyard or vibrant King Street, with many rooms featuring private balconies.
Right in the heart of Charleston, the Nickel is sure to become a beloved destination for locals and visitors within the vibrant neighborhood of Cannonborough, known for its innovative restaurants, cafes, and independent boutiques.
Starting rates from $460/night
SNAPSHOT
Method Co. is a Philadelphia-based hospitality and development firm with an in-house design and branding firm, Method Studios, founded on the joining of historically compatible disciplines under one roof; the firm bridges the worlds of interior design and real estate development, while embracing the custom design of products, furniture, identities and experiences. Built from a team of individuals with extensive experience in the fields of finance, interior design, branding, architecture, urban planning and fine arts, Method company’s diverse skill set forms the foundation of the firm’s interdisciplinary practice. The team has been responsible for the design, staging and development of hotel, restaurant, and real estate projects, such as the ROOST Apartment Hotel brand with locations throughout the US including Philadelphia, Cleveland, Tampa, Baltimore, and Detroit; Whyle in Washington D.C.; Wm. Mulherin’s Sons Restaurant & Hotel, and HIROKI restaurant in Philadelphia; luxury boutique property in Charleston, The Pinch and restaurant Lowland; The Quoin hotel, restaurant, rooftop bar & lounge, and Simmer Down in Wilmington, Delaware; along with a variety of dining concepts, including Le Suprême, Kamper’s, Sakazuki, Bar Rotunda, The Aladdin Sane, and Hiroki-San, at Detroit’s Book Tower; FORTH Atlanta, which houses a boutique hotel, social club, and four food & beverage concepts – Il Premio, Bar Premio, Elektra, and Moonlight; and most recently, The Nickel Hotel a second luxury concept in Charleston opening in late Spring 2025, with additional expansion plans across concepts in other major markets. www.methodco.com @method.co_
ABOUT CAPITAL SQUARE
Capital Square is a vertically integrated, national real estate firm specializing in tax-advantaged real estate investments, including Delaware statutory trusts for Section 1031 exchanges, qualified opportunity zone funds for tax deferral and exclusion and a real estate investment trust (REIT). The company is also an active developer and manager of multifamily communities. Since 2012, Capital Square has completed more than $7.9 billion in transaction volume. Capital Square’s mixed-used development projects total over 2,000 apartment units with a total development value in excess of $800 million, and Capital Square Living, the firm’s property management division, now manages over 11,500 apartments across multiple states. Capital Square’s related entities provide a range of services – including due diligence, acquisition, loan sourcing, property/asset management and disposition – for a growing number of high-net-worth investors, private equity firms, family offices and institutional investors. The company has been recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in the nation for eight consecutive years. Learn more at CapitalSq.com.
ABOUT MORRIS ADJMI ARCHITECTS
Morris Adjmi Architects (MA) is a multidisciplinary planning and design practice that provides a comprehensive approach to architecture, interior design, and art services—driven by the firm’s collective passion for placemaking. Known for creating iconic buildings inspired by art, history, and context, MA’s rigorous, research-based design approach has helped establish the firm as a leader in the revitalization of post-industrial neighborhoods and historic districts with projects that are imbued with a distinct sense of place and purpose. Headquartered in New York City and New Orleans, the award-winning firm has designed over 27 million square feet of built space in more than 25 cities throughout the United States and abroad. www.ma.com
Photo Credit: Matthew Williams
Dress up in colonial attire and join us at The Joe for a Carolina Day Post-Game Drone Light Show:
Carolina Day is an annual celebration of the American victory over the British Royal Navy in 1776 Battle of Sullivan’s Island during the Revolutionary War.
We’ll spend Carolina Day in the battle of our own with Lynchburg Hillcats kicking off the yearlong celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Following the game, the RiverDogs will host Charleston’s first-ever large-scale Drone Light Show, featuring 250 custom-choreographed LED drones performing above the ballpark.
Photo Credit: Charleston RiverDogs
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Carolina Day is the annual commemoration of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island that occurred on June 28, 1776. Fort Moultrie hosts Carolina Day events annually on the Saturday closest to June 28. During this weekend, the park hosts living historians, historic weapons demonstrations, ranger programs, and other activities.
Below is a listing of Carolina Day activities:
Join a ranger and living historians to help raise the Moultrie Flag. Learn about the importance of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, what the battle between the fort and the navy looked like and the history behind the flag itself.
10:30 a.m.: Learn more about the forming of the patriot force that defended Fort Moultrie, the 2nd South Carolina Regiment.
12:00 p.m.: Join a representative of the Catawba Nation and learn the history from first contact through present day.
1:00 p.m.: Join our living historians for a history talk about the South Carolina State Navy!
1:30 p.m.: Discover more about the British history here at Sullivan’s Island with the 33rd Regiment of Foot.
Join living historians to learn about muskets, cannons and mortars. Experience what it would have been like when they were fired!
11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.: Musket Demonstrations
11:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.: Artillery Demonstrations
Join rangers and living historians for a program showcasing Sergeant Jasper and his heroic actions as he rescues the Moultrie flag under gunshots and cannon fire!
Join a ranger and living historians to help fold the Moultrie Flag. Learn about the importance of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, and how the fight for freedom continues to echo through time.
Join us as we host historian and local author Norm Rickeman for a deep dive into the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, and why he considers it “…the biggest upset victory in America’s military history.”
Ranger stations provide interactive activities for visitors of all ages, including:
Meet local author Norm Rickeman, who wrote THE book on Colonel Moultrie and the victory at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. Books will be available for purchase.
Join a historian to learn (and play!) the most popular game in colonial America.
Join a Park Ranger to experience the magical look of indigo dyeing, and learn about the enslaved labor used to get the dye from the plant. Did you know this is the same dye that we use in blue jeans today?
Join the Royal Navy Bully Boys for an interactive demonstration on how sailors would have tied knots.
Related: Remembering the Battle of Sullivan’s Island – June 28, 1776
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Community members have the opportunity to shape the future of the beloved landmark.
Charleston, SC, June 10, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is thrilled to invite the community to help name the new entryway road leading into the future Angel Oak Preserve.
As part of a major effort to protect the land surrounding the tree and enhance the visitor experience at the Angel Oak, this new pervious entryway road will pass through the Preserve’s parking lot and more safely connect Bohicket and Angel Oak roads. It will lift the weight of parked vehicles off the tree’s delicate root system and create a safer, more enjoyable arrival experience. Visitors of the free Preserve will be immersed in nature from the moment they step out of their cars and during the five-minute trail walk before reaching the tree, offering a quieter, more meaningful connection to this ecologically and historically significant site. This thoughtfully designed arrival and parking experience will fade into the distance as one approaches the majestic tree and explores the 44-acre Preserve.
Lowcountry Land Trust encourages community members to submit name suggestions through an Online Form by Wednesday, June 25.
All submissions are welcome, whether they reflect a historic event, natural elements, local culture, or are simply creative. The selected name will be submitted as part of the final road plans to Charleston County, the City of Charleston’s Technical Review Committee, and SCDOT in July for approval. The chosen road name will be announced via the Land Trust’s newsletter and social media platforms at a later date, and construction of the Angel Oak Preserve is anticipated for 2026.
“The Angel Oak is a place for communities to gather, so we’re excited to invite the community to be part of this next chapter,” said Samantha Siegel, Angel Oak Preserve director at Lowcountry Land Trust. “This has always been a community project, and it’s important to us that the community continues to have a voice in how this ecological treasure evolves.”
Click here for more information about the Angel Oak Preserve, donate, or to receive updates.
Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTrust on social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.
ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST
Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s coastal ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres of land since its founding in 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful local land trusts in the United States. Its work includes the stewardship of iconic public places, such as the Angel Oak Preserve, and privately owned land throughout the Lowcountry. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.
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Luxury townhomes and flats overlooking Ashley River and Safe Harbor City Marina nearing completion.
The Beach Company, an industry leader in residential and commercial real estate brokerage, development and property management, announced today that The Charles, a luxury waterfront residential community overlooking the Ashley River at the western gateway to Charleston’s historic district, is now available for leasing.
Situated in the iconic Harleston Village neighborhood at the corner of Broad and Barre streets, The Charles offers 15 three-story townhomes and eight residential flats with unmatched waterfront views. Offering a mix of two- and three-bedroom floor plans, residences feature premium amenities and finishes, all within walking distance of Charleston’s famed culinary, cultural and natural offerings.
Private street-level entrances, handcrafted wrought iron gates, brick verandas, mahogany doors and copper lanterns create a stately arrival point reflecting the city’s timeless Southern elegance. Inside, homes are outfitted with modern luxuries such as quartz and tile backsplashes, Viking and Bosch appliances, dedicated chef’s faucets, Kallista water fixtures, panelized refrigerators and dishwashers, custom soft-close cabinetry and ceilings ranging from 10 to 12 feet. Bathrooms evoke the tranquility of a high-end spa with oversized showers with benches and deep soaking tubs. Townhomes feature grand staircases, stately wooden doors, elegant crown molding and private two-car garages.
Residents of The Charles will have exclusive access to the deluxe facilities next door at The Jasper, including a rooftop pool, commercial fitness center with free-weight circuit facility, yoga and outdoor fitness areas on the Star Deck, locker rooms with showers and saunas, private wine lockers and a demonstration kitchen with catering prep space for private events. At the street level of The Jasper, neighbors will enjoy Costa*, a coastal Italian-inspired restaurant; Alcove Market for breakfast, lunch and curated grab-and-go fare; and an array of boutique services including Spa Azure, Baseline Fitness, Form Charleston, Drift and Ashley Artisan Suites, a curated collective of local artists, stylists and wellness professionals.
“The Charles represents an opportunity to live in one of Charleston’s most sought-after waterfront locations, blending timeless architecture with elevated modern living,” said Dan Doyle, president of The Beach Company. “With thoughtfully designed residences, upscale amenities and an unbeatable location in historic Harleston Village, The Charles offers the pinnacle of luxury living in downtown Charleston and we look forward to welcoming our first residents later this year.”
Designed by Antunovich Associates, renowned for their expertise in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, The Charles’ architecture will beautifully complement the city’s rich history while incorporating contemporary elements. The Charles features stately brick facades, lushly landscaped gardens and a London-style mews, seamlessly honoring the city’s legacy of fine architecture and craftsmanship. Architect Joe Antunovich, a recipient of the Legendary Landmark honor for his significant contributions to Chicago’s civic and cultural legacy, also designed the neighboring Jasper community.
The Charles is set for completion in summer 2025.
For more information at The Charles leasing, contact Ashley Cantey at 843.513.1000 or acantey@charlesonbroad.com
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By Mark A Leon
In the world of interior design, few names evoke the blend of tradition and fresh perspective quite like Katie Lindquist. As the founder of Katie Lindquist Interiors, she has established herself as a leader in creating spaces that are both timeless and contemporary, with a particular affinity for the Southern aesthetic. Her journey from art history and finance student to celebrated designer is as layered and thoughtful as the interiors she creates.
A Journey Rooted in Art and Finance
Katie Lindquist’s path to interior design was anything but conventional. She began her academic career at Lehigh University, where she pursued dual degrees in Art History and Finance. This unique combination gave her a rare perspective—the ability to appreciate the beauty and history of art and architecture, while also understanding the practical and financial considerations that underpin successful design projects.
Her passion for design was further kindled by experiences abroad. Studying in Italy and Prague, Lindquist immersed herself in the rich traditions of European art and architecture. She explored museums, historic homes, and antique markets, absorbing the details and craftsmanship that would later influence her signature style. These experiences instilled in her a deep appreciation for the stories that objects and spaces can tell.
Upon returning to the United States, Lindquist continued her education at the New York School of Interior Design, where she refined her technical skills and developed a keen eye for composition and detail. It was here that she began to see interior design not just as a creative pursuit, but as a means of enhancing the way people live and interact with their surroundings.
Shaping the Southern Aesthetic
Today, Katie Lindquist Interiors is based in both Summit, New Jersey, and Charleston, South Carolina. This dual presence allows Lindquist to draw inspiration from the cosmopolitan energy of the Northeast and the distinctive charm of the Lowcountry. Her work in Charleston, in particular, has made her a standout in the world of Southern design.
The Southern aesthetic is rooted in history, hospitality, and a connection to nature. Lindquist’s approach to this style is both respectful and innovative. She honors the region’s architectural heritage—think wide porches, high ceilings, and intricate millwork—while infusing each project with a modern sensibility. Her interiors are layered with textures, patterns, and colors that reflect the warmth and personality of the South, yet feel fresh and relevant to contemporary life.
One of the hallmarks of Lindquist’s work is her use of locally sourced antiques and custom furnishings. She has a knack for finding unique pieces that tell a story, whether it’s a vintage sideboard with a rich patina or a handcrafted table made by a local artisan. These elements add depth and authenticity to her projects, creating spaces that feel both lived-in and luxurious.
Lindquist also embraces the natural beauty of the South, often incorporating organic materials like wood, stone, and linen into her designs. She uses large windows and thoughtful lighting to bring the outdoors in, blurring the line between interior and exterior spaces. This connection to nature is a defining feature of Southern design, and Lindquist’s work exemplifies it beautifully.
Signature Style: Playful Sophistication
Katie Lindquist’s signature style can best be described as “playful sophistication.” Her interiors are rich in detail and texture, yet always maintain a sense of lightness and joy. She is known for her ability to make neutral palettes feel dynamic and exciting, often using pattern and subtle contrasts to create visual interest.
One of the keys to Lindquist’s success is her ability to tailor each project to the individual client. She begins every design process by listening to her clients’ needs, preferences, and stories. Whether working on a historic Charleston home or a modern lakeside retreat, she draws inspiration from the architecture, the landscape, and the client’s own narrative. This personalized approach ensures that each space is as unique as the people who inhabit it.
Lindquist’s background in art history gives her a keen eye for composition and detail. She is skilled at layering different elements—art, textiles, furniture—to create a cohesive and harmonious whole. Her training in finance, meanwhile, allows her to manage projects efficiently and stay within budget, ensuring that her clients’ visions are realized without unnecessary stress or expense.
Her interiors are designed for real life, balancing beauty with practicality. She understands that a home should be both beautiful and functional, and she pays careful attention to the flow and usability of each space. This is especially important in Southern design, where hospitality and comfort are paramount.
Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future
Katie Lindquist’s work stands out for its ability to celebrate the past while embracing the future. She honors the traditions of Southern design—its warmth, its hospitality, its connection to nature—while infusing each project with a modern twist. Her interiors are timeless, yet always feel fresh and relevant.
Whether she’s working on a historic renovation or a new build, Lindquist brings a thoughtful, creative approach to every project. She is constantly seeking out new sources of inspiration, from travel and art to fashion and culture. This openness to new ideas keeps her work vibrant and exciting, and ensures that each project is a true reflection of her clients’ personalities and lifestyles.
A Representative of Excellence in Charleston Interior Design
Katie Lindquist Interiors is a testament to the power of thoughtful, personalized design. By blending heritage and innovation, Lindquist creates homes that are both timeless and full of life. Her work in Charleston and beyond reflects a deep appreciation for the region’s culture, while her playful, sophisticated style ensures that each space is as unique as the people who inhabit it.
For those seeking interiors that are elegant yet approachable, layered with meaning yet effortlessly stylish, Katie Lindquist offers a vision that is both rooted in the past and looking confidently toward the future. Her journey—from art history and finance student to celebrated designer—is a reminder that great design is as much about storytelling as it is about aesthetics. And in every space she creates, Katie Lindquist tells a story worth remembering.
Follow Katie’s journey and work on Instagram.
Photo Credit: Katie Lindquist Interiors
Budget Includes 80% of Gov. McMaster’s Proposals
June 4, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today announced line item vetoes for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 state budget. The final budget includes a record 80% of the governor’s executive budget proposals, including an income tax cut, full funding for an armed, certified, full-time school resource officer in every public school, teacher and law enforcement pay raises, a college tuition freeze, and key investments in conservation, infrastructure, and workforce development.
During his tenure, the governor has enjoyed a strong, collaborative, and productive working relationship on the state budget with the General Assembly. This has resulted in most of his annual executive budget priorities being embraced by House and Senate budget writers and usually produces a low number of vetoes, with only 11 being issued this year.
“South Carolina’s booming economy is the envy of the nation. We are cutting taxes, investing in our teachers, making our schools safer, and providing opportunity, access, and choice for parents and their children,” said Gov. McMaster. “Once again, college remains accessible and affordable, government agencies are more accountable, road and bridge construction is accelerating, and we are continuing to protect our communities and culture, our natural resources, and the taxpayers’ hard-earned money.”
The governor also announced plans for an executive order that will ensure public confidence and provide transparency and accountability on how taxpayer dollars are spent. The order requires all cabinet agencies and departments to request detailed information before distributing or administering appropriations if they lack sufficient or specific direction on how to do so in the budget. The Governor’s Office began requesting this type of information from state budget writers three years ago.
“The public has a right to know exactly how their money is being spent and by whom. Without that information, they cannot evaluate an appropriation’s merit for themselves,” said Gov. McMaster. “This extra step will help provide additional accountability and transparency for the public in the operation of state government.”
For a copy of the governor’s veto message, click here.
The governor’s priorities funded in the final budget include the following notable proposals (all statements are attributable to Gov. McMaster):
INCOME TAX CUT:
“Working together, we have provided South Carolina taxpayers with the largest income tax cuts in state history, and we’re not finished. This budget continues those cuts. To date, over $1 billion in income taxes have been eliminated – allowing taxpayers to keep more of their hard-earned money instead of sending it to the government. And we will continue cutting the income tax rate until it is the lowest in the Southeast.”
FULL-DAY 4K:
“This budget continues to build on the remarkable progress we have made in early childhood education, investing in our teachers, making our schools safer and providing opportunity, access and choice for parents and their children.
“Data has shown that a child from a low-income household enrolled in a state-funded, full-day four-year-old kindergarten program is more likely to possess the skills to learn than their peers who do not participate.
“That’s why five years ago, I proposed funding for the statewide expansion of the full-day four-year-old kindergarten program and the General Assembly agreed. This allowed parents from low-income households to enroll their four-year-old child in kindergarten programs run by public schools, private childcare centers or private schools.”
TEACHER PAY:
“Last year, we raised the minimum starting salary in South Carolina to $47,000, which not only exceeded the Southeastern state average but was higher than both Georgia and North Carolina.
“This budget increases the minimum starting teacher salary to $48,500, keeping us on schedule to meet our $50,000 goal next year, with more to come.”
SCHOOL CELL PHONE BAN:
“We all know that cell phone use is distracting. Five years ago, I began including a proviso in my executive budgets prohibiting the use of cell phones or other personal electronic communication devices by students at school. Last year, the General Assembly included this ban in the state budget, and the ban went into effect in January 2025.
“Teachers and administrators reported that the impact of the cell phone ban was almost immediate. The classroom distraction, anxiety, stress and behavior issues have been dramatically reduced – freeing up teachers to teach and students to learn without the burden of added distraction.”
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS:
“At my request, the General Assembly began funding an SRO grant program administered by the Department of Public Safety. The program provides local law enforcement agencies with funds to hire and equip a full-time SRO and assign them to a public school that does not have one assigned to it.
“The program has been enormously successful. As I speak, there are only 177 out of 1,284 public schools without a full-time SRO.
“However, this year the General Assembly finished the job and provided the funding necessary to assign an SRO at the last 177 schools. So when the next school year begins in the fall, every public school in South Carolina will have funding for an armed, certified full-time school resource officer on campus providing safety for students and teachers and comfort for parents. And these officers are backed by our unique resource officer training program conducted on-site under real life conditions at the old Gilbert Elementary School and run by the State Law Enforcement Division.”
SCHOOL CHOICE:
“This budget once again provides funds for the Education Scholarship Trust Fund. These funds will continue to allow low-income parents to choose the type of education environment and instruction that best suits their child’s unique needs.”
COLLEGE TUITION FREEZE:
“Six years ago, I proposed that we freeze college and university tuition to keep access to a degree affordable for in-state resident students. The General Assembly agreed, and this year’s budget marks the sixth straight year that college tuition remains frozen for in-state students.”
NEEDS-BASED FINANCIAL AID:
“Four years ago, I successfully proposed increasing annual lottery funding, from $20 million to $80 million, for needs-based grants and financial aid for lower-income college students – so they can afford to attend any in-state public college, university, or technical college. In addition, $20 million is available annually for tuition grants, which provides financial assistance for lower-income students enrolled at any of our state’s private, independent, and historically black colleges and universities.”
S.C. WORKFORCE INDUSTRY SCHOLARSHIPS:
“To address the high demand for skills, training and knowledge, this budget once again provides $91.4 million for the valuable South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarships (SC WINS) program at our state’s technical colleges.
“We created this very successful program using federal COVID-19 pandemic funds for scholarships to cover the cost of tuition and fees at any of our technical colleges. The General Assembly began funding this program in the budget four years ago. This has provided over 120,000 South Carolinians with a post-secondary or industry credential in high-demand careers like manufacturing, nursing, computer science, information technology, transportation, logistics, or construction.”
S.C. EDUCATION LOTTERY:
“In January, I asked the General Assembly to consider allowing education lottery tickets to be purchased using – not credit cards – but debit cards, and they agreed. Why? Because many businesses no longer accept cash – and many people don’t carry it.
“The Lottery Commission estimates debit card purchases will generate an additional $15.9 million for additional college scholarships, financial aid and grants at our public and private colleges and universities.”
NEW NEUROLOGICAL HOSPITAL:
“In my recent State of the State address, I announced that we had a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a world-class neurological facility for critical care procedures, rehabilitation services, and leading-edge research in the field of neurology.
“The $150 million provided by the General Assembly will match the Department of Health and Human Services’ commitment of $200 million to pay for the construction of this new neurological hospital, which will house an 80-bed critical care unit and a 32-bed neurological rehabilitation unit, both operated by the University of South Carolina.”
HEALTHCARE AGENCY RESTRUCTURING:
“We embarked on the largest and most successful government restructuring and accountability effort in over thirty years – bringing direct gubernatorial accountability to the actions of our largest state healthcare service delivery agencies.
“Two years ago, the Department of Health and Environmental Control was dissolved and was statutorily reconstituted as two new gubernatorial cabinet agencies – the Department of Public Health and the Department of Environmental Services – the directors of which are now both hired and fired by the governor.
“This year, the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs were dissolved and reconstituted as one new gubernatorial cabinet agency – now called the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities – the director of this agency is now hired and fired by the governor.”
INFRASTRUCTURE:
“The Department of Transportation has made tremendous progress in repairing and improving our transportation system. They have delivered a valuable return on our investments – with the strong help of the executive and legislative branches.
“For instance, in 2017, there were just $2.7 billion in road construction projects underway across the state. Last month, the department had over $7 billion in projects happening in all 46 counties, with more to be done.
“The $200 million appropriated in this state budget for bridge repair and replacement, and the hundreds of millions appropriated in previous years’ budgets, will allow the department to continue accelerating road and bridge repair, interstate widening and large interchange construction across the state – to meet our state’s growing population.”
LAW ENFORCEMENT PAY RAISE:
“A few years ago, our Department of Administration conducted a comprehensive analysis of state law enforcement pay to ensure that salaries were competitive to attract and retain top-tier talent. We saw what we had to do.
“As a result, South Carolina’s law enforcement officers have received substantial pay raises – some as high as 52% in the last three years. This year, I proposed, and the General Assembly funded, a continued investment in our public safety by providing an additional $25.4 million for pay raises, overtime and hiring new officers at our state law enforcement and criminal justice agencies.”
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS:
“In addition, this state budget continues investment in the Department of Corrections with significant new funding to expand cell phone and contraband interdiction, hire new correctional officers, increase medical and mental health services, and pay for deferred maintenance at our 21 prisons.”
DISASTER RELIEF:
“This state budget follows my recommendations for Hurricane Helene relief. For example, it provides the Department of Transportation with an additional $35 million to cover costs related to debris removal and repairs to roads and bridges – costs that were not reimbursed by the federal government.
“The Office of Resilience is provided with the recommended $40 million in this budget to replenish the two Disaster Relief and Resilience Reserve funds. Both the grant fund and revolving loan fund were utilized and depleted to provide immediate relief and resources on the ground to people impacted by Helene.
“And the General Assembly also agreed to provide over $201.7 million to create the South Carolina Public Assistance program to be administered by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.”
CONSERVATION:
“This state budget provides a record $60 million for the preservation and conservation of historic, pristine or significant properties and for flood mitigation efforts across the state.”
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By Mark A Leon
Blush & Bone Salon in Charleston stands out as a sanctuary of calm and creativity, nestled in Mount Pleasant but serving the broader Charleston area. As the only Redken Black Level Salon nearby, it attracts both new and veteran stylists who are passionate about ongoing education and mastering their craft—from advanced hair coloring to curly cuts and hair extensions.
The salon’s laid-back, luxurious atmosphere is designed to make every guest feel valued and relaxed.
One of the most unique aspects of Blush & Bone is their commitment to a phone-free experience. While their official policies do not explicitly mention a “no cell phones” rule, the salon’s brand truths—such as “Time is our biggest asset” and the desire to create a “zen den” for clients—align with the spirit of disconnecting and truly enjoying one’s time at the salon.
The lounge is designed for relaxation and productivity, but the emphasis is on unwinding, sipping a complimentary beverage, and letting the outside world fade away.
Clients often comment on the peaceful vibe and the salon’s ability to make them feel at ease—without the distractions of everyday life. This approach allows guests to focus on self-care and connect with their stylists, who are dedicated to mapping out personalized hair journeys and maintaining the health and beauty of every client’s hair.
By prioritizing a tranquil, judgment-free environment and valuing each moment spent in the salon, Blush & Bone creates a space where clients can truly escape, recharge, and leave feeling refreshed—both inside and out. Their commitment to authenticity, kindness, and community further strengthens this ethos, making every visit a memorable retreat from the digital world.
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Photo Credit: Blush & Bone Salon
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