Lowcountry

Sustainability Meets Opportunity: CLIMB Fund Pioneers Green Lending to Transform South Carolina’s Business Landscape

January 10, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

In an era where sustainability is more than a buzzword, small businesses across South Carolina are seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. With the GreenPath SC program, CLIMB Fund is stepping up to meet this need with robust and innovative green lending opportunities, designed to support businesses in their sustainability efforts, driving both economic development and environmental stewardship. 

GreenPath SC supports small businesses, agricultural operations, and clean energy enterprises across South Carolina by providing financing to lower costs, enhance competitiveness, and reduce environmental impact. This program is particularly vital in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities disproportionately affected by rising sea levels and flooding, including BIPOC populations (36% of the state), rural residents (33%), and low-income disadvantaged communities (LIDAC) (59%). Agricultural producers receive support for improving soil health, conserving water, and adopting renewable energy, while clean energy businesses gain working capital to manage upfront costs and seasonal challenges. Businesses transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) can access funding for vehicles, charging stations, and other clean transportation solutions.  

The program offers green loans for energy-efficient upgrades, including solar panels, LED lighting, insulation, ENERGY STAR-certified equipment, heat pumps, and sustainable farming practices. “As the Sustainability Coordinator at CLIMB Fund, I am thrilled to see this initiative empowering small businesses and agricultural operations across South Carolina,” said Emily Fender. “By providing accessible financing for sustainable solutions, we’re helping businesses thrive while building a more resilient and sustainable future for our communities.” These efforts help businesses and agricultural producers adopt innovative, environmentally friendly solutions that build resilience and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  

CLIMB Fund’s vision goes beyond providing financial support; it is about actively contributing to a sustainable future for South Carolina. By empowering businesses to invest in more diverse energy sources, CLIMB Fund is not only promoting environmental responsibility but also driving economic growth. This approach ensures that the Palmetto State remains a leader in environmental innovation. 

About CLIMB Fund: CLIMB Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and federally certified Community Development Financial Institution dedicated to leveraging capital in support of social and economic justice. With a focus on providing access to capital for BIPOC, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses and as South Carolina’s leading SBA microlender, CLIMB Fund remains committed to creating access, jobs, and opportunities where they are most needed.  

For more information about CLIMB Fund’s green lending opportunities and how your business can benefit, visit, www.climbfund.org or email green@climbfund.org.  

Source: Climb Fund

Lowcountry

Major Hilton Head, SC $16.5M renourishment beach project to begin in 2025. Here’s when and where

January 10, 2025 by 1 Comment
Read More

By Anna Claire Miller

If you see big machines on Hilton Head beaches this summer, don’t be alarmed. It’s all a part of the 2025 beach restoration project. Hilton Head’s 2025 beach renourishment is the fourth major project Hilton Head has undergone since its initial restoration 34 years ago. The project is sponsored and funded by the Town of Hilton Head Island and will be engineered by Olsen Associates, which has served as the town’s coastal engineering consultant and executed the first restoration of the island’s beaches in 1990.

The upcoming beach renourishment project has an estimated price of $16.5 million. Here is what you should know about this upcoming project. Where is this happening? The locations of these sand placement projects are: 

1. South Beach & South Island: 750,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along the southern Atlantic Ocean shoreline. 

2. Central Island: 700,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along 28,860 feet of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. 

3. The Heel: 500,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along the northeast point of the island at the intersecting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Port Royal.

4. Fish Haul Creek: 50,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along the Port Royal Sound shoreline.

5. Pine Island: 180,000 cubic yards of beach-compatible sand will be added and construction of six rock breakwaters on the Port Royal Sound shoreline of Hilton Head Plantation between Dolphin Head and Pine Island will be installed.

When is this project supposed to start? The project report states that this will begin in the summer of 2025 and is broken up into three phases.

Here is a timeline outlined by the Town of Hilton Head:

Phase 1: June 2025 to October 2025: Includes The Heel, Fish Haul Creek, Port Royal Plantation and Pine Island.

Phase 2: September 2025 to May 2026: Includes Central Island, South Island and South Beach.

Phase 3: Timing not yet determined: This phase of the project includes the Pine Island structures.

Preparation for this project begins this spring and all timelines are subject to change as the project progresses. The beaches along both the central and southern shoreline are to remain unaffected until the fall of 2025. The Town of Hilton Head says that only 1,000 feet of beach access will be restricted each day throughout the duration of the project, meaning that only 2% of beaches will be unavailable every day. The project is designed to beIf you see big machines on Hilton Head beaches this summer, don’t be alarmed. It’s all a part of the 2025 beach restoration project. Hilton Head’s 2025 beach renourishment is the fourth major project Hilton Head has undergone since its initial restoration 34 years ago.

The project is sponsored and funded by the Town of Hilton Head Island and will be engineered by Olsen Associates, which has served as the town’s coastal engineering consultant and executed the first restoration of the island’s beaches in 1990.

The upcoming beach renourishment project has an estimated price of $16.5 million. Here is what you should know about this upcoming project. Where is this happening? The locations of these sand placement projects are: 

1. South Beach & South Island: 750,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along the southern Atlantic Ocean shoreline. 

2. Central Island: 700,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along 28,860 feet of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. 

3. The Heel: 500,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along the northeast point of the island at the intersecting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Port Royal.

4. Fish Haul Creek: 50,000 cubic yards of sand will be added along the Port Royal Sound shoreline. 5. Pine Island: 180,000 cubic yards of beach-compatible sand will be added and construction of six rock breakwaters on the Port Royal Sound shoreline of Hilton Head Plantation between Dolphin Head and Pine Island will be installed. When is this project supposed to start? The project report states that this will begin in the summer of 2025 and is broken up into three phases. Here is a timeline outlined by the Town of Hilton Head: Phase 1: June 2025 to October 2025: Includes The Heel, Fish Haul Creek, Port Royal Plantation and Pine Island.

Phase 2: September 2025 to May 2026: Includes Central Island, South Island and South Beach. Phase 3: Timing not yet determined: This phase of the project includes the Pine Island structures. Preparation for this project begins this spring and all timelines are subject to change as the project progresses. The beaches along both the central and southern shoreline are to remain unaffected until the fall of 2025. The Town of Hilton Head says that only 1,000 feet of beach access will be restricted each day throughout the duration of the project, meaning that only 2% of beaches will be unavailable every day.

Source: The Island Packet

Lowcountry

People First Fund for Southern California Wildfires Launches to Provide Direct Financial Assistance

January 9, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As fast-moving fires engulf the Greater Los Angeles Area, Emergency Assistance Foundation (EAF) – a non-profit administrator of disaster and hardship relief funds – has launched the People First Fund for Southern California Wildfires to provide direct financial assistance to the people and families impacted. Awarded grants will cover urgent needs, from temporary shelter to food and clothing, in the immediate aftermath of the wildfires’ devastation.

The People First Fund for Southern California Wildfires also enables caring donors to maximize their impact by taking advantage of EAF’s industry-low administrative cost. Donations to the fund can be made at donorbox.org/people-first-fund-for-southern-california-wildfires.

“We know that the best way to provide support in the aftermath of disasters is to put money directly into the hands of the people impacted as quickly as possible, filling a void in traditional disaster response,” says Doug Stockham, President of Emergency Assistance Foundation. “With the help of our donors, we’re giving people what they need most right now and supporting them on the path to recovery.”

Since its inception, EAF has awarded over $329 million in financial assistance to more than 411,000 people and families impacted by unforeseen disasters and personal hardships. Much of EAF’s work is done through the ongoing administration of its 350+ employee relief funds, each sponsored by a company – ALDI, American Airlines, Experian, Mattress Firm Inc., Synchrony, Travel + Leisure Co., and Quest Diagnostics® among them – to support its team members who are impacted by unforeseen disasters and personal hardships. To expand its reach, EAF also often activates its People First Fund when large-scale disasters strike. EAF launched a People First Fund for Hurricanes Helene & Milton in late 2024 and, in total across all its funds, has provided over $20 million in the aftermath of those storms.

About Emergency Assistance Foundation:

Emergency Assistance Foundation (EAF) is a 501(c)(3) public non-profit that provides financial assistance to eligible individuals in the immediate aftermath of unforeseen disasters and personal hardships occurring around the world. EAF does this through the administration of 350+ employee relief funds – each sponsored by a company to support its team members in need – as well as through its People First Fund, which often activates when large-scale disasters strike to help as many of those impacted as possible. As a financial first responder, EAF acts resourcefully to ensure that financial assistance reaches individuals in need as quickly and efficiently as possible, no matter the unique circumstances. For all its relief funds, EAF objectively manages all activities – including accepting donations, objectively reviewing grant applications, and awarding and distributing grants – while also maintaining legal and regulatory compliance. Since its inception, EAF has helped more than 411,000 individuals and families with assistance totaling over $329 million. EAF has its pulse on disaster events occurring around the world in real time, and its 100-plus team members, located across ten different time zones, are equipped with multilingual response abilities. Learn more at eafrelief.org.

SOURCE Emergency Assistance Foundation, Inc.

Lowcountry

Decades-old Columbia, South Carolina hotel (Embassy Suites near Riverbanks Zoo) to cease operation, future unclear

January 8, 2025 by 1 Comment
Read More

By Hannah Wade (The State)

The Embassy Suites hotel near Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is set to close in early January and potentially lay off 120 workers in the process. The hotel, a 218-room Hilton franchise on Stoneridge Drive, will close Jan. 6 after the international hotel brand decided to terminate the franchise agreement, according to a letter sent to employees by the company December 18, 2024.

“This came unexpectedly. After getting this notice, we attempted to negotiate for more time to continue operations, but Hilton did not allow it,” Larry Cooper, the vice president of operations for Atrium Hospitality, which owns the hotel, said in the letter to employees. Workers at the hotel will be furloughed indefinitely, according to the letter. The company said its hope is for the furlough to last less than six months, but it’s possible the hotel will be closed permanently. On the hotel’s booking website, reservations cannot be made after the night of Jan. 5. A spokesperson for Hilton told The State on Tuesday that the company could not comment on the closure, citing the Embassy Suites’ status as an independently owned and operated hotel. The hotel is listed for sale by real estate investment management company JLL. The investment company’s brokers did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The hotel, which sits right off Interstate 126 near the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, was built in 1988 on a little over six acres of land and sits across from two other hotels.

Source: The State

Lowcountry

Quarry company to invest $450M in six South Carolina counties creating 70 new jobs

January 8, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

Chester County will get a piece of a new $450 million investment from Luck Companies, as the Virginia business grows in South Carolina. The company announced its new quarry plans on Tuesday. They’ll create 70 jobs across six counties. New sites in Chester, Edgefield, Saluda and Spartanburg counties will join expanded ones in Fairfield and Kershaw counties. Luck Companies will invest $93 million in a new Chester County site, adding 25 jobs. It’ll have a quarry and space for agricultural education. Part of the site will be available for economic development. The company announcement didn’t list an address for the Chester County property.

County land records show Luck Stone Corp. owns four properties at nearly 370 acres just north of Lancaster Highway. The site is about halfway between Interstate-77 and downtown Chester. About 90 acres of the project is on a site purchased by Luck Companies to create an agricultural buffer, Chester County Administrator Brian Hester said in a news release from Chester County Economic Development. “This project is expected to lower both aggregate material and construction costs in our community,” Hester said.

The $93 million investment for Chester County is up from nearly $58 million in the original company plans, said county Economic Development Director Robert Long. There will be a 75-acre business park developed, Long said, plus 15 more acres for future economic development. “This will support the development of small- and mid-size industrial and commercial buildings that are greatly needed in our growing community,” Long said. By spanning six counties, the move will be important for an entire region that needs construction materials. “The corridor between Columbia to Charlotte will be well-positioned for aggregate material for decades to come,” said Chris Finn, interim president and CEO of the I-77 Alliance economic development group.

About Luck Companies

A Virginia company founded more than a century ago, Luck Companies produces stone aggregates for construction, engineering and environmental industries. It’s a combination of Luck Stone, Luck Ecosystems and Luck Real Estate Ventures. Luck Companies has more than 500 employees, according to its LinkedIn page. The company has about 30 workers at its South Carolina facilities prior to the new jobs announced Tuesday.

Source: The Herald (Rock Hill)

Lowcountry

The Radical Hotel in Asheville’s River Arts District Reopens Following Hurricane Helene

January 7, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

The Hotel is Now Welcoming Guests For Stays

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Asheville hotel The Radical, located in the city’s River Arts District, is now welcoming guests following recovery from the effects of Hurricane Helene. Housed in a once-abandoned 1920s warehouse that was formerly a cereal factory, The Radical is a boutique hotel and living art installation that debuted in October 2023. The destination for travelers and locals alike has 70 unmistakable guest rooms and suites. Inspired by the River Arts District’s RAD moniker, The Radical brings together a collective of buzzing energy, creative characters and shared experiences designed to inspire all guests to be fearlessly radical. Last week, it was named USA TODAY 10Best’s number two 2025 Readers’ Choice Award for Best New Hotel.

“We are so excited to be reopening our doors and coming back stronger than ever as the hotel restores its vibrant spirit,” says Amy Michaelson Kelly, Principal of the firm Hatteras Sky, who developed The Radical. “This has been an extremely challenging time for the Asheville community and beyond, and we are looking forward to welcoming back familiar faces for a bright year ahead.”

Building community is at the core of The Radical’s mission, and during the storm recovery, the hotel’s team immediately moved to transform the property into a home for first responders and a distribution center for much-needed supplies for the community. The Radical also teamed up with River Arts District Artists (RADA) Foundation, Explore Asheville and Ponce City Market to host a “Love Asheville from Afar” pop-up art gallery at Ponce City Market in Atlanta, Georgia, featuring works from RAD artists impacted by Helene.

The hotel’s flagship wood-fire restaurant Golden Hour, its rooftop bar The Roof and its cafe and bar after/glow will reopen in the coming months (stay tuned on Instagram). Each is from local Asheville resident and two-time James Beard nominated restaurateur Jacob Sessoms. During the recovery, the restaurant teams cooked and served food for the neighborhood, and Sessoms was one of several North Carolina chefs who participated in Cooks for Carolina – a New Orleans dinner series that supported Asheville’s independent restaurants.

Guests can now book reservations to stay at The Radical Hotel here.

Throughout January, guests can enjoy complimentary drip coffee in the lobby from 8am-10am.

The Radical – Located in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina’s River Arts District, The Radical is a boutique hotel and living art installation that debuted in October 2023 owned by commercial real estate development firm Hatteras Sky and capital partner Somera Capital East and operated by Driftwood Hospitality Management. Housed in a once-abandoned 1920s warehouse that was formerly a cereal factory, the hotel is Asheville’s newest destination for travelers and locals alike, with 70 unmistakable guest rooms and suites, a flagship wood-fire restaurant named Golden Hour, a rooftop bar and a cafe and bar called after/glow – all from local Asheville resident and two-time James Beard nominated restaurateur Jacob Sessoms. Inspired by the River Arts District’s RAD moniker, The Radicalbrings together a collective of buzzing energy, creative talents and shared experiences designed to inspire all guests to be fearlessly radical. 

Related: The Radical in Asheville, NC: The newest, hippest, urban boutique hotel, restaurant and rooftop bar experience

(Top) Photo by Matt Kisiday | (Bottom) Photo Courtesy of The Radical

Lowcountry

U-Haul Growth States of 2024: South Carolina Tops List for First Time

January 7, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

States are ranked by their net gain or loss of one-way movers last year

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Jan. 2, 2025) — The trend of southern states netting larger numbers of one-way U-Haul® customers continued during 2024, with South Carolina topping the U-Haul Growth Index for the first time.

Texas, North Carolina, Florida and Tennessee round out the five leading growth states.

California experienced the greatest net loss of do-it-yourself movers in U-Haul equipment and ranks 50th for the fifth consecutive year.

Growth rankings are configured by each state’s net gain (or loss) of customers utilizing one-way U-Haul equipment in a calendar year. The U-Haul Growth Index is compiled from well over 2.5 million one-way U-Haul truck, trailer and U-Box® moving container transactions that occur annually.

“State-to-state transactions from the past year reaffirm customer tendencies that have been pronounced for some time,” stated John “J.T.” Taylor, U-Haul International president. “Migration to the Southeast and Southwest continues as families gauge their cost of living, job opportunities, quality of life and other factors that go into relocating to a new state. Out-migration remains prevalent for a number of markets across the Northeast, Midwest and West Coast — and particularly California.

“U-Haul continues to expand its network, rental fleet and self-storage footprint so that wherever people move in 2025, we will be there to meet their needs.”

South Carolina climbed three spots in the rankings to unseat Texas, which was the No. 1 growth state for the previous three years (2021-23). Of all the U-Haul movers coming and going from the Palmetto State in 2024, more than 51.7% were arrivals.

Texas has ranked first or second among U-Haul Growth States each year since 2016. Florida has been fourth or higher every year since 2015.

New York, at No. 47 on the list, has its lowest growth ranking in a decade.

Oklahoma (+30), Indiana (+19) and Maine (+18) are the biggest risers year-over-year on the U-Haul Growth Index. Colorado (-31), Nevada (-24), Wyoming (-22) and New Mexico (-21) saw the biggest slides in 2024.

Find past growth rankings and reports at uhaul.com/about/migration.

2024 U-Haul Growth States

1.SOUTH CAROLINA (4)
2.TEXAS (1)
3.NORTH CAROLINA (3)
4.FLORIDA (2)
5.TENNESSEE (5)
6.ARIZONA (8)
7.WASHINGTON (7)
8.INDIANA (27)
9.UTAH (13)
10.IDAHO (6)
11. OKLAHOMA (41)
12. ARKANSAS (17)
13.MAINE (31)
14. OHIO (23)
15. GEORGIA (18)
16. ALABAMA (22)
17. VIRGINIA (10)
18. MINNESOTA (20)
19. SOUTH DAKOTA (19)
20. VERMONT (12)
21. DELAWARE (15)
22.WISCONSIN (26)
23.IOWA (24)
24.MONTANA (21)
25.KENTUCKY (29)
26.HAWAII (25)
27.ALASKA (34)
28.MISSOURI (28)
29.NEBRASKA (35)
30.WEST VIRGINIA (30)
31.NORTH DAKOTA (32)
32.KANSAS (33)
33.NEW HAMPSHIRE (40)
34.OREGON (37)
35.NEVADA (11)
36.WYOMING (14)
37. NEW MEXICO (16)
38. RHODE ISLAND (36)
39.MISSISSIPPI (39)
40. COLORADO (9)
41. CONNECTICUT (42)
42. MARYLAND (44)
43. MICHIGAN (46)
44. LOUISIANA (45)
45. ILLINOIS (48)
46. PENNSYLVANIA (38)
47. NEW YORK (43)
48.NEW JERSEY (47)
49.MASSACHUSETTS (49)
50.CALIFORNIA (50)

2023 growth rankings in parentheses

While U-Haul rankings may not correlate directly to population or economic growth, the U-Haul Growth Index is an effective gauge of how well states and cities are attracting and maintaining residents.

U-Haul is the authority on migration trends thanks to its expansive network that blankets all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The geographical coverage from 23,000-plus U-Haul rental locations provides a broad overview of where people are moving like no one else in the industry.

U-Haul continues to benefit the environment through its shared-use business model. Truck and trailer sharing empowers communities to share moving equipment so that families and individuals don’t need to own large-capacity vehicles to transfer belongings. Sustainability initiatives like U-Haul Adaptive Reuse (the preserving and repurposing of existing buildings for new stores), truck modifications to improve fuel economy, and plastic Ready-To-Go Boxes® that are shared hundreds of times before being recycled are among the ways U-Haul promotes green business. U-Box Load Share, the Company’s latest sustainability program, continues to earn awards for providing ecofriendly solutions to today’s gig economy.

About U-HAUL

Founded in 1945, U-Haul is the No. 1 choice of do-it-yourself movers with more than 23,000 rental locations across all 50 states and 10 Canadian provinces. The U-Haul app makes it easy for customers to use U-Haul Truck Share 24/7 to access trucks anytime through the self-dispatch and -return options on their smartphones with our patented Live Verify technology. Our customers’ patronage has enabled the U-Haul fleet to grow to 192,000 trucks, 138,700 trailers and 39,500 towing devices. U-Haul is the third largest self-storage operator in North America with 1,024,000 rentable units and 88.5 million square feet of self-storage space at Company-owned and -managed facilities. U-Haul is the top retailer of propane in the U.S. and the largest installer of permanent trailer hitches in the automotive aftermarket industry. Get the U-Haul app from the App Store or Google Play.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Source link: U-Haul

Lowcountry

Flight Adventure Park Charleston Hosts Once in a Lifetime Grand Relaunch With Reimagined Space and Aviation Themed Attractions

January 7, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

The Premier Flight and Aviation-Themed Trampoline Park Will Be Debuting Its Intergalactic Makeover on January 10 With a Weekend Long Celebration Featuring a Retired NASA Astronaut

CHARLESTON, S.C., Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Flight Adventure Park is the family fun center known for bringing to life imaginative spaces designed to encourage active play, celebration, interactive learning, and the freedom to fly. The relaunch of the newly space-themed Charleston park marks the first of four Flight Adventure Park locations to undergo renovations in 2025, with its Irmo location planned to reopen later this month. To highlight the renovation, grand reopening festivities including arts and food truck vendors, face painting, and DJs, will kick off on Friday, January 10th, and continue throughout Saturday, January 11th, for a fun weekend for families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike.

The weekend-long celebrations will be joined by both CEO Steven L. Yeffaand Captain Robert “Hoot” Gibson, former NASA astronaut and Flight Adventure Park Advisory Council Member. 

Guests can enjoy a refreshed, immersive space and aviation-themed interior, including the park’s new 2,800 sq. ft. Lunar Park, where guests can hop from planet to planet, and test their stamina and endurance on the Turbulence ride, a rocket-themed mechanical bull. The park will also debut its new Lunar Court, where guests can jump, slam dunk and play dodgeball. Three new private party rooms have also been developed with themes of space and aviation, boasting walls of educational, fun facts for kids to explore and a space to host parties and events.

“We began these renovations back in August 2022 with the goal of providing imagination, connection, learning, and adventure to families,” said Steven L. Yeffa, CEO of Flight Adventure Park. “Welcoming our guests to our Charleston location and seeing them experience this retrofit firsthand reinforces our excitement as we’ve swiftly brought these redesigns to all our parks in our network over the past couple of years, and our final park in the first quarter of 2025.”

About Flight Adventure Park

Flight Adventure Park is America’s only space and aviation-themed indoor adventure park and entertainment venue. Guests can unleash their imaginations, explore their physicality, and connect with others through diverse activities and games. Featuring trampolines, lunar courses, dodgeball, climbing structures, and more, Flight Adventure Park has the most comprehensive entertainment venues that cater to all types of audiences. Flight Adventure Park strives to make every visit a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining adventure, fitness, fun, and interactive learning to nurture an environment where guests can explore new heights. Flight Adventure Parkhas eight FLIGHT locations across the United States, providing year-round entertainment for parties, events, and everyday play. The company also owns and operates five FLIGHT locations in Canada, branded as iSaute. For more information, visit flightadventurepark.com.

Lowcountry

Charleston Local Spotlight: Glass Half-Full Mocktails – Redefining how we drink in the Lowcountry (One purposeful class at a time)

January 6, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

When we think about mocktails, we often think about a substitute for the real thing. Let’s take this a step further and give a conscious health and wellness driven angle to the design and consumption of mocktails. Now we have the passion and purpose behind Glass Half-Full Mocktails, a local Charleston based women owned solution offering classes throughout the Lowcountry with meaningful and fun results.

Let’s learn more about Glass Half-Full Mocktails and the energetic visionaries that are educating, entertaining and looking out for our health and well-being one class at a time.

What to expect from a Glass Half-Full Mocktails class?

Functionality & Education: Think: If a cocktail-making class & holistic nutrition consultation had a baby….

We are not reinventing the wheel, but we are certainly giving it an upgrade for a smoother & more purposeful ride on this journey that we call life. In 2024, the mocktail craze has taken the spotlight, & it’s not just a fleeting trend but a lifestyle that extends far beyond the confines of “dry January.”

Why functional mocktail classes, you ask? At Glass Half-Full, we believe in the power of intentionality in nourishing our beautiful bodies. While every day may not be picture-perfect, we want to equip YOU with the skills to craft elixirs tailored to offer targeted health benefits. Whether it’s combating a cold, promoting healthier skin, managing stress, fighting insomnia, alleviating seasonal allergies, or needing a natural pre-workout boost – there’s a mocktail for every wellness need!

But this isn’t your average health class; it’s a holistic experience. We infuse this educational journey with the art of classic cocktail making, adding a twist to your learning adventure. Impress your friends at the next gathering not only with your ability to craft beautiful & delicious drinks but also with the knowledge of how each sip holds a purpose beyond the glass. Because at Glass Half-Full, we believe in raising the bar – both in taste & well-being.

Sustainability

At Glass Half-Full, our dedication lies in fostering a symbiotic relationship with our magnificent Earth. By tapping into the medicinal richness of her flora, we acknowledge that we have been provided with a home that consistently supports our well-being. In return, we are committed to making choices that prioritize & safeguard her best interests. Our efforts extend beyond appreciation to proactive measures, striving to align with & protect the Earth that so generously provides for us. Together, let’s continue this journey of mutual support & sustainable harmony!At Glass Half-Full, our dedication lies in fostering a symbiotic relationship with our magnificent Earth. By tapping into the medicinal richness of her flora, we acknowledge that we have been provided with a home that consistently supports our well-being. In return, we are committed to making choices that prioritize & safeguard her best interests. Our efforts extend beyond appreciation to proactive measures, striving to align with & protect the Earth that so generously provides for us. Together, let’s continue this journey of mutual support & sustainable harmony!

Thrifting

By embracing the art of thrift, we’ve curated a collection of glassware that not only adds a touch of unique charm to our classes but also supports a more sustainable lifestyle.

We go out on the hunt to source our glassware, rescuing beautiful pieces that deserve a second chance. By repurposing & upcycling pre-loved glassware, we reduce waste & minimize our environmental footprint. Each piece in our collection tells a story, embodying the timeless elegance of yesteryear while contributing to a greener, more eco-conscious future.

We believe that small actions make a big impact!

Working Alongside the Seasons & Locals

We take pride in curating our mocktails with as many in-season fruits & locally sourced botanicals as possible. This deliberate choice not only ensures a symphony of flavors but also maximizes the nutritional benefits inherent in each ingredient. From the crisp freshness of summer berries to the robust warmth of fall spices, our concoctions are as dynamic as the changing seasons.

Choosing local & in-season ingredients isn’t just about delivering nutrient-dense options – it’s a conscious decision with far-reaching positive impacts. By supporting local farmers & utilizing produce at its peak, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also contribute to sustainable agriculture. The result? A guilt-free indulgence that not only nourishes your body but also nurtures the environment.

Embark on a journey of wellness where the fusion of in-season & local ingredients transforms mocktails into a holistic experience. Elevate your senses, embrace the seasons, & revel in the joy of mindful sipping with Glass Half-Full. Because, the purpose beyond the glass, lies the essence of well-being. Cheers to a healthier, happier, hour!

Classes are structured around 4 principles

How to learn more and book your class today!

Meet Jenna and Audrey – Founders and Educators

Cheers!

Lowcountry

Grand Opening of ‘Daniela’s Downtown Market and Deli’ on Spring Street in Charleston, SC – Tuesday, January 7, 2025

January 6, 2025 by 0 Comments
Read More

By Mark A. Leon

Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 7:00 AM, Daniela’s Downtown Market and Deli opens its doors at 132 Spring Street (Corner of Ashley and Spring). Along with a passionate team and products made with love, opening day is served with purpose.

“Join us for a heartwarming celebration at Daniela’s Downtown Market and Deli grand opening on Tuesday, January 7th at 7 AM! In honor of Daniela and all those bravely battling scleroderma, we’re donating 10% of our opening day proceeds to the National Scleroderma Foundation. Let’s come together for a great cause and a delicious start to the new year! See you there!”

Let’s come out and support to team at Daniela’s with a delicious breakfast or lunch sandwich, fresh coffee drinks and locally sourced menu items to meet all your needs.

Don’t forget to say hi to Natasha and ask her about her late mother Daniela (namesake). She will have wonderful stories to share.

Follow Daniela’s on Instagram.

Photos courtesy of Daniela’s

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.