For those that do not know the heart and will of Briana Boehmer, Co-Founder and COO of Goodie Bag, this story will choke you up. If you know her Briana is a rare individual with athleticism, business savviness, a deep connection to a great good and a zest for life. It is this is the passion, determination and love that has helped small businesses in cities throughout the country, including Charleston, SC reduce waste and nurture community relationships. This story goes deeper exposing a truly loving relationship between daughter and father.
Briana’s story of overcoming adversity and the impactful goal to compete and complete the New York City Marathon on 2025
My dad has cancer, and I need your support. That’s the most important thing I’ll say here.
But for those who know me—personally or professionally—you know I’ve built my life and career around helping others live healthier, more intentional lives. Whether through endurance sport, impact-focused startups, or my current work at Goodie Bag, my path has always been rooted in doing work that matters. Right now, one of those things is this.
When I was 19 months old, my mom was killed. I don’t remember her.
All I’ve ever known is my dad.
Last year, I was invited to run in the elite field of the NYC Marathon—something I’d quietly worked toward for decades. But two days before the race, I got sick and had to pull out at mile 4. At the same time, my dad had just been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Since then, I’ve stepped into the role of caregiver. And like many things in life, it has been both heartbreaking and clarifying.
I’m fundraising for The Brave Like Gabe Foundation, a foundation that supports rare cancer research and honors the resilience it takes to keep going—on the track, in the clinic, and in life.
Gabriele Grunewald, a professional runner and rare cancer advocate, founded the Brave Like Gabe Foundation to inspire people to share stories of being brave through their own struggles while also helping to find better and more effective treatments for rare cancer.
My goal is to raise $15,000. I’ve kicked it off with a symbolic gift of $26.20, and for every donation of $50 or more, I’ll be sending a health-focused gift from a woman-led small business I believe in deeply: Raw Bites by Risa.
The truth is: cancer is everywhere right now. Two friends I care about have lost loved ones in just the past two weeks. This disease is not rare in reach—it’s growing, and the need for better research and support is urgent.
CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Interstruct, Inc. CEO Ryan Young, AIA, is pleased to announce the official opening of Interstruct Design + Build’s newest office in Charlotte, North Carolina. This marks the company’s fourth office, joining locations in Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota, Florida, and reflects Interstruct’s ongoing commitment to strategic growth across the Southeast.
“Interstruct expands to Charlotte with Branson Bowen leading Southeast growth.”
“For several years, my business partner, Rich Monroe, and I have considered expanding Interstruct Design + Build to new markets,” said Young. “Identifying cities with similar demographics as Orlando and Tampa is easy. Finding the right person to lead new business is incredibly challenging.”
Effective immediately, Branson Bowen has been named Principal of the Charlotte office. Bowen brings a decade of commercial real estate and construction experience and has a strong track record of community involvement and leadership. Since 2019, his grassroots organization, Contractors, Closers & Connections, has donated $130,000 to Orlando-area nonprofits. In 2024, he was named one of Orlando Business Journal’s “40 Under 40.”
Now residing in Charlotte with his wife, Bowen is set to bring Interstruct’s distinct design + build capabilities to adaptive reuse, healthcare, and hospitality projects throughout the city.
Why Charlotte? Charlotte mirrors key demographic and economic characteristics of Interstruct’s successful Florida markets. From transit expansion plans and rich opportunities for infill development, to its position as the second-largest financial center in the U.S., Charlotte is an ideal environment for Interstruct’s expertise in commercial design + build solutions.
“With Branson Bowen at the helm, who has already proven his ability to grow market share, this is a home-run opportunity for Interstruct,” said Young.
About Interstruct Design + Build Founded in 2001, Interstruct is an architect-led commercial general contractor delivering innovative Class A construction across the Southeast. With an in-house architecture studio, Interstruct supports clients from conceptual design through execution, offering expertise in adaptive reuse, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and corporate interiors.
Contact – Charlotte Office Branson Bowen Interstruct Design + Build 2030 S Tryon St, Suite 3G Charlotte, NC 28203 704.402.2058 bbowen@interstructinc.com
Lowcountry Land Trust Expands Caw Caw Interpretive Center with Protection of 35-Acre Holly Grove Property
Expansion will improve trail connectivity, increase recreational access, and preserve scenic Lowcountry views for future generations.
Charleston, SC, May 6, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is proud to announce the permanent protection of the 35-acre Holly Grove property—which will serve as an official addition to the Caw Caw Interpretive Center in Ravenel, South Carolina. This strategic acquisition in collaboration with the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) significantly expands public access to nature, enhances water quality protection, and ensures the long-term conservation of vital habitats in one of Charleston County’s most ecologically and recreationally valuable public spaces.
The addition of Holly Grove to the Caw Caw Interpretive Center enhances the park’s highly visible and ecologically rich landscape, boasting approximately 2,300 feet of waterway frontage along Tea Farm Creek and the Wallace River, and about 850 feet of scenic frontage along U.S. Highway 17 South (Savannah Highway). The land is a vital natural buffer, enhancing wildlife habitats, protecting water quality, and preserving stunning views both from the water and the highway. In the future, it could also serve as a place for a paddlecraft launch at all tides, offering a new opportunity for water-based exploration. Bordering the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway route, the Caw Caw addition also opens the door for a future movement of the trail off the highway and onto more protected terrain, improving safety and the visitor experience for cyclists, runners, and walkers alike.
“Caw Caw is one of the Lowcountry’s ecological gems, and we’re thrilled to partner with CCPRC to help expand and protect it,” said David Ray, chief conservation officer at Lowcountry Land Trust. “This addition increases recreational access, enhances habitat protection, and ensures the long-term stewardship of a place that reflects the very best of the Lowcountry’s natural heritage.”
Previously at risk of development, the Caw Caw addition was purchased by Lowcountry Land Trust, then transferred to the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. The Land Trust now holds and will monitor a conservation easement in perpetuity, partnering with CCPRC to safeguard the land’s natural value and public benefit for current and future generations.
“The expansion of Caw Caw through the addition of the Holly Grove property is a great example of what strong partnerships can achieve,” said Kevin Bowie, executive director of CCPRC. “We’re grateful to the Lowcountry Land Trust, Charleston County Council, and the County’s Greenbelt Program. By working together, we’re able to expand public access to this remarkable property. We look forward to creating even more trails, water access points, and recreational opportunities at Caw Caw in the years ahead.”
The $2.2 million project was made possible through generous public funding: $2.09 million from Charleston County’s Greenbelt Program and an additional $110,000 provided by CCPRC. The collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to balancing growth with permanent protection of the region’s most treasured natural areas.
Charleston County is fortunate to have iconic, publicly accessible green spaces, and Caw Caw stands out as one of the finest,” said Joe Boykin, Charleston County Council Member (District 8). “Expanding and protecting places like this through our Greenbelt Program isn’t just smart land use—it’s a lasting investment in quality of life.”
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. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.
The Saint Cecilia is a dynamic rock band from Costa Rica making waves on the international stage with their passionate blend of classic and modern rock influences. The group’s lineup features Stewart Heigold (lead vocals/guitar) and Daniel Solorzano (drums) from Costa Rica, alongside French musicians Romain Garriot (lead guitar) and Guillaume Devigne (bass), creating a unique blend of cultural backgrounds and musical perspectives.
On May 10, 2025 they are making their Charleston, South Carolina debut at LoFi Brewing – Click HERE for Tickets.
After seeing them at Lovin’ Life Music Fest in Charlotte, NC this past weekend, we were blown away by the rhythmic sounds, stage presence, lighting, costumes and overall energy. After speaking to the band for a few minutes, it was clear music was in their blood, but what makes them special is that they know the road ahead is going to be filled with music fans who don’t know their sound, but like Springsteen, they plan to win you over with their high powered live shows.
This coming Saturday, May 10, we have our chance Charleston to see this amazing band who are embarking on the first official U.S. “Tour”. We strongly recommend you come out to dance, rock and become a fan of The Saint Cecilia. Click HERE for tickets.
Let’s learn more about the band…
Musical Style and Influences
The Saint Cecilia’s sound is rooted in the classic rock of the 1960s and 70s-drawing inspiration from legends like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Rush-while also embracing the energy and style of modern rock bands such as Arctic Monkeys and The 1975. Their music is characterized by energetic guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and lyrics that reflect personal experiences, love, and the challenges of pursuing a musical dream. The band members’ diverse backgrounds add further depth, with French discipline and Costa Rican “pura vida” spirit blending in both their sound and work ethic.
Costa Rican Roots and International Ambition
The Saint Cecilia takes pride in representing Costa Rica’s vibrant rock scene, which is notable for its American and British influences and a surprising number of bands per capita in the capital, San José. Their mission goes beyond commercial success-they aim to showcase the quality of Central American rock and inspire other Costa Rican bands to reach international audiences. The band’s name itself is a nod to the patron saint of music, underscoring their dedication to their craft and their desire to guide listeners on a “mystical journey by way of music”.
Breakthroughs and U.S. Tour
The Saint Cecilia’s rise has been marked by significant milestones, including opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers at Costa Rica’s National Stadium-a performance in front of 50,000 people that cemented their status at home. Their international breakthrough came with performances at major U.S. festivals, such as Austin City Limits (ACL) in Texas and BottleRock in California, marking their first major shows in the United States. These appearances have been deeply meaningful for the band, who self-financed their journey to the U.S. and see each show as a chance to represent Costa Rica on a global stage.
Their U.S. tour has included both large festival stages and more intimate club shows, allowing them to connect with new audiences and industry figures. Notably, they have performed at iconic venues and studios, sharing stages where rock legends have played and recorded. The band’s Instagram and festival spotlights highlight their growing popularity and the pride they bring to Costa Rican fans watching their success abroad.
The Saint Cecilia at Lovin’ Life Music Fest in Charlotte, NC
Looking Ahead
With only a few singles released including The Pretender which is gathering airplay in various regions, The Saint Cecilia’s catalog is still growing, but their live performances and authentic approach have already earned them a devoted following. As they continue their U.S. tour and announce new festival dates, Saint Cecilia stands as a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration and the enduring appeal of rock and roll-Costa Rican style.
Stay connected with The Saint Cecilia on Instagram.
The Katie Blessing Center is poised to transform pediatric behavioral health care in Charlotte and across North Carolina, addressing a critical gap in services for children and adolescents facing mental health challenges.
A New Standard in Pediatric Behavioral Health
Set to open its first phase in 2026, the Katie Blessing Center will be the largest and most advanced pediatric behavioral health facility in North Carolina, located at 5516 Central Avenue in east Charlotte. The center is designed to serve children and teens ages 5 to 18, offering a continuum of care that includes behavioral health urgent care, acute inpatient treatment, residential care, and outpatient services-all on a single campus. This integrated approach is unique in the state, ensuring continuity and comprehensive support for young people in crisis and their families.
Facilities and Programs
The center will be constructed in phases. Phase 1 will feature a renovated building with a 6-10 chair behavioral health urgent care unit, 48 acute inpatient beds, telehealth services, and both indoor and outdoor recreational spaces. Phase 2, opening in 2027, will add up to 24 more beds, an expansive gymnasium, and additional therapy spaces. Ultimately, the facility will offer up to 72 beds, addressing the dire shortage of pediatric behavioral health resources in the region.
Programming at the Katie Blessing Center is diverse and evidence-based, including:
• Art, music, horticulture, animal, and recreational therapies
• Nutritional wellness and exercise therapy
• Education, tutoring, and peer/family support programs
• Yoga, mindfulness, and martial arts
The center’s environment is intentionally designed to be bright, modern, and welcoming, helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health treatment.
Impact on the Charlotte Community
Charlotte and North Carolina have long struggled with limited access to youth mental health care-North Carolina ranks 42nd in the nation for prevalence of youth mental health issues and lack of access to care. More than 50 children each week have been reported sleeping in emergency departments due to a lack of appropriate behavioral health resources. The Katie Blessing Center aims to change this by providing local, high-quality, and accessible treatment options.
By offering urgent care, short- and long-term residential treatment, and outpatient support, the center will alleviate pressure on emergency departments and provide families with a clear path to healing. The center is also expected to create over 200 jobs, contributing to the economic vitality of east Charlotte.
Community and Financial Support
The project is a collaborative effort, led by the Katie Blessing Foundation and supported by local government, health systems, and private donors. Over $30 million has been raised so far, with significant contributions from the State of North Carolina, the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and partners like Novant Health. The total project cost is estimated at $62–$63 million, with ongoing fundraising to ensure completion and sustainability.
A Vision for the Future
The Katie Blessing Center is more than a facility-it represents a movement to redefine youth mental health care in Charlotte. By prioritizing family-centered, holistic care and innovative therapies, the center seeks to give every child the chance for a healthy, hopeful future. As COO Tracey Hummell noted, “By bringing this facility to the east side, we’re going to improve the community, we’re going to strengthen the community, beyond just jobs. Directing people away from emergency departments again, and giving them a space where they can receive healing for their mental health issues”.
With construction underway and community momentum building, the Katie Blessing Center stands as a beacon of hope for Charlotte’s youth and families, setting a new standard for pediatric behavioral health in the region and beyond.
The partnership’s investment will ensure the preservation of affordability of all 104 units across the two South Carolina properties
Charleston, SC, (May 1, 2025) — Tesatura Capital, LLC, Ellavoz Impact Capital, LLC, the Ellavoz Neighborhood Homes Fund, and The Community Preservation Corporation (CPC), announced the acquisition of two affordable housing properties, Canopy at the Element and Canopy on Ashley in North Charleston, South Carolina with the goal of preserving workforce and affordable housing in a rapidly appreciating region of the state. The properties, which are located just one mile apart, have a combined 104 two- and three-bedroom townhomes that serve the housing needs of the local community. The transaction ensures that these properties will remain attainable for existing and future residents.
In addition to preserving the properties as affordable housing, the partnership plans to make meaningful capital improvements to the properties to increase energy efficiency, add physical amenities, and promote community building among the residents.
Allie Zamfir, Managing Principal, Tesatura Capital stated, “This investment showcases our ability to execute on our vision to preserve and enhance much-needed workforce and affordable housing in South Carolina. We look forward to implementing programming and providing resources to strengthen these communities and ensure the residents are proud to call these places home.” Jeffrey Crum, Chief Operating Officer, Ellavoz added that “these acquisitions build on our firm’s commitment to making meaningful impact investments that support the preservation and creation of workforce and affordable housing units”.
“At a time when cities of all sizes are struggling with a crisis of supply and affordability, CPC is focused on investing in the long-term stability and preservation of housing that serves the needs of our communities,” said Tell Metzger, Senior Vice President, Equity Investments, CPC. “We are proud to be supporting the work and growth of two mission-aligned partners and helping to preserve the affordability of 104 units of housing that will serve the North Charleston community for years to come.”
Canopy at the Element, located at 8101 Honeysuckle Lake Drive, is a 90,000-square-foot, 72-unit apartment complex spanning 90,000 square feet. The community consists of two- and three- bedroom townhomes with modern interior finishes and is situated within close proximity to major thoroughfares. Residents benefit from a range of amenities, such as laundry facilities and storage spaces, in addition to access to quality schools, shopping, and dining.
Canopy on Ashley, located at 3360 Ashley Phosphate Road, is a 35,200-square-foot, 32-unit apartment complex. Each two-bedroom apartment is designed with updated finishes, spacious layouts and abundant light. In addition to the living spaces, the property is conveniently located near shopping, dining and entertainment options.
Tesatura and Ellavoz formed a joint venture in 2024 with the goal of creating and preserving affordable housing throughout the Carolinas while the population of the region continues to grow. This was the joint venture’s first acquisition. The partners plan to continue their acquisitions in the Charleston MSA and in other key markets of South Carolina in 2025 and beyond.
CPC provided a $5 million equity investment to aid in the acquisition and preservation of the two properties. CPC’s Equity Investment platform seeks to address the growing national housing crisis through investments in the preservation and creation of high-quality housing at affordable and workforce rents. The company works carefully to deploy its capital to help grow the capacity of the affordable housing industry by supporting emerging sponsors, with a focus on long-term ownership of multifamily buildings to ensure that the properties remain financially strong and physically sound.
To further support its mission, the Partnership was awarded a grant through Charleston County’s Affordable Housing Land Acquisition Grant program. These funds are a critical part of the capital stack used to support the noted capital improvements associated with the investment’s business plan.
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About Tesatura Capital LLC
Founded in 2023, Tesatura Capital is an emerging investment management firm focused on creating and preserving high-quality workforce and affordable housing in the Carolinas. Tesatura executes on this mission by directly investing in and operating multifamily properties via partnerships with mission-aligned investors and non-profits. We believe that by focusing on community needs, both at the property and neighborhood level, we can help families and individuals live vibrant lives.
Firm Managing Principal Allie Zamfir brings deep institutional investment and asset management experience both in impact investing and managing a large portfolio of multifamily assets throughout the region.
To learn more about Tesatura Capital, visit tesaturacap.com.
About Ellavoz Impact Capital and Ellavoz Neighborhood Homes Fund (ENHF)
Ellavoz is a social impact investor, advisor, asset manager, and real estate developer focused on creating and preserving workforce and affordable housing assets and other community-oriented real estate properties. Ellavoz’s strategy concentrates investments in price-attainable housing and economic development projects by working with socially aligned operators, local nonprofits, and governmental agencies to deliver positive community outcomes and double bottom line returns. Based in Belmar, New Jersey, Ellavoz currently has total managed and controlled assets with a value approaching $300 million. Ellavoz’s principals have decades of experience leading large community development financial institutions and nonprofit organizations. Collectively, the management team has led transactions with a total capitalization value of nearly $3 billion.
ENHF is the Ellavoz managed impact fund focused on creating and preserving affordable and workforce housing in the Carolinas. ENHF provides co-general partner investment capital to emerging managers and nonprofits who need additional sponsor equity and balance sheet support to fully capitalize impactful housing transactions.
To Learn more about the Ellavoz family of funds, visit Ellavoz.com.
About The Community Preservation Corporation (CPC)
CPC is a nonprofit, multifamily finance company that was founded in 1974 to provide financial and technical resources to stabilize and revitalize communities. Today, CPC uses its unique expertise in housing finance and public policy to expand access to affordable and workforce housing, advance diversity and equity within the development industry, and expand investment in the green economy and lessen the impact of climate change. Since its founding, CPC has invested over $15 billion to finance the creation and preservation of more than 230,000 units of housing. The company provides a suite of construction and permanent lending products and is an Equity Investor with approximately 4,500 affordable units under ownership. CPC is a carbon-neutral company and maintains AA- S&P rating. Visit CPC atcommunityp.com, and onFacebook,Twitter andLinkedIn.
National co-warehousing operator expands to Charlotte with 80,120 SF property set to open in early 2026
CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — WareSpace, a national provider of small warehouse spaces, has completed the off-market acquisition of an 80,120 square-foot property in Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood—marking the company’s first entry into the North Carolina market.
Located at 322 W 32nd Street, just five minutes from Uptown Charlotte and 15 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the property is strategically located within one of the city’s most vibrant and fast-growing commercial districts, NoDa. The building is slated to open for leasing in early 2026.
“This is a major milestone for our Southeast expansion,” said Levi Cohen, CEO at WareSpace. “Charlotte has one of the strongest entrepreneurial communities in the country, and this NoDa location will deliver the warehouses that small and growing businesses need.”
“This property checked all the boxes: an infill industrial asset in a supply-constrained submarket, surrounded by a growing, dynamic neighborhood in NoDa. WareSpace immediately saw the value and moved with conviction. From start to finish, selling to WareSpace was a smooth and efficient process,” said David Morris, Director, Trinity Partners who facilitated this off-market transaction.
Once operational, the Charlotte property will offer private warehouse units ranging from 200 to 2,000 square feet, each with included mission-critical industrial infrastructure and modern business amenities such as racking, WiFi, climate control, secure 24/7 access, loading docks, kitchen, and conference space. All units will be leased under simple terms with flat monthly pricing—no long-term commitments, surprise fees, or complex lease structures.
The new Charlotte location adds to WareSpace’s growing national portfolio, which now includes more than 1.5 million square feet of co-warehousing & small-bay industrial space across major U.S. markets. WareSpace continues to identify and reimagine underutilized properties, transforming them into dynamic & energized hubs that support the local small businesses community, including eCommerce operators, contractors, and light manufacturers.
About WareSpace WareSpace is a national real estate firm, specializing in the development of co-warehousing and small-bay industrial spaces between 200 – 2000 SF. WareSpace creatively adapts and reconfigures dated industrial and challenged properties into thriving hubs that support the surrounding small business community. Operating with a vertically integrated structure, WareSpace is able to ensure a high level of quality by offering all major service lines in-house, including acquisitions, development, construction, finance, operations, marketing, and sales. Learn more atwarespace.com.
CHARLESTON, S.C. – ESPN Events has officially announced the field and format for the 2025 Shriners Children’s Charleston Classic, set to return for its 17th year at TD Arena in Charleston, S.C.. This year’s tournament will be held on November 21 and 23 and will feature two independent brackets.
Matchups, tip-off times, and ESPN network designations for all games will be announced in the coming months.
Field 1 Highlights
Clemson (ACC) had a historic run to the Elite Eight in 2023-24 season. They continued their strong performance this past season, winning a school record 27 games and securing a No. 5 seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.
Georgia (SEC) was a nine-seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. The Bulldogs also secured their third consecutive top-15 national recruiting class.
Xavier (Big East) finished with a 22-12 record and earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament as a No. 11 seed. They secured a victory over Texas in the First Four, winning 86–80.
West Virginia (Big 12) will be led by their new coach, Ross Hodge. Coach Hodge led North Texas to the NIT semifinals last year.
Field 2 Highlights
Boston College (ACC) is led by North Charleston native Earl Grant, the Eagles have succeeded in early-season tournaments, winning the Cayman Islands Classic last year.
Davidson (Atlantic 10) will be making its fifth appearance in the Charleston Classic, which will tie Clemson for the most appearances by any school.
Tulane (AAC) concluded the 2024-25 regular season with a 19-15 overall record and 12-6 in the American, marking the third time in the last four seasons that the Green Wave has finished top five in the conference standings.
Utah State (Mountain West) finished the season with a 26-8 record and earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament as a No. 10 seed in head coach Jerrod Calhoun’s first season in Logan.
Owned and operated by ESPN Events, the Shriners Children’s Charleston Classic is in its 17th year. Past Classic champions include Drake (2024), Houston (2023), College of Charleston (2022), St. Bonaventure (2021), and Florida (2020).
The family-friendly event offers teams a week of practice, play, and experiences in and around historic Charleston. The Charleston Classic website offers information on travel packages, tickets, and more. Tickets will be available for purchase after the complete tournament schedule is announced later this summer.
Pre-Sale Signup
For first access to premium seats and the lowest prices, sign up today:
About Shriners Children’s Shriners Children’s improves the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, conducting innovative research, and offering outstanding education programs for medical professionals. Children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate are eligible for care, regardless of the families’ ability to pay, and receive all care and services in a compassionate, family-centered environment. For more information, please visit shrinerschildrens.org.
ESPN Events
ESPN Events, a division of ESPN, owns and operates a portfolio of collegiate sporting events nationwide. In the 2024-25 academic year, the 34-event schedule includes four early-season college football kickoff games, 17 college bowl games, 10 college basketball events, the premiere regular season college softball and gymnastics events, as well as the Band of the Year National Championship. Collectively, these events account for over 400 hours of live programming on ESPN platforms, reaching 60 million viewers and attracting more than 650,000 annual attendees. Each year, the portfolio of events features more than 20 Division I conferences and hosts over 4,000 participating student-athletes. With satellite offices in more than 10 cities across the country, ESPN Events builds relationships with conferences, schools and local communities, as well as providing unique experiences for teams and fans.
Charleston, South Carolina, is home to Stareworthy Books, a rising star in the world of customized children’s books, with a special focus on creating unforgettable Mother’s Day gifts. Founded by Anna Stare, a local photographer turned entrepreneur, Stareworthy has quickly become a beloved option for families seeking meaningful, personalized presents that celebrate the unique bonds between mothers and their children.
A Charleston Story Rooted in Family
Stareworthy began as a passion project during the pandemic, when Anna Stare transformed keepsake family photos into a storybook for her niece. The overwhelmingly positive response from her family inspired her to launch the business, which now offers a range of customizable books designed to preserve cherished memories for families across Charleston and beyond.
How Stareworthy Books Work
Stareworthy’s books stand out for their high level of personalization. Customers can upload their own family photos, which are then woven into rhyming stories crafted by Stare herself. Each book provides prompts for photo placement, ensuring the narrative flows seamlessly with the images. This approach creates a deeply personal keepsake that’s both visually engaging and emotionally resonant.
Mother’s Day: A Focus on Custom Gifts
For Mother’s Day, Stareworthy offers several book templates specifically designed for moms and grandmothers. Titles like “Grand” celebrate the special bond between generations, while others are tailored for new or expectant mothers. Each book can be customized with family photos and personal messages, making it a one-of-a-kind gift that’s guaranteed to touch the heart.
Quality and Durability for Young Readers
Understanding that these books are often enjoyed by babies and toddlers, Stareworthy ensures each page is thick and fingerprint-resistant, with a sturdy cover that lays flat for easy reading. This thoughtful design makes the books durable keepsakes that can withstand years of love and handling from little hands.
Why Charleston Families Love Stareworthy
• Locally Inspired: Stareworthy’s founder and creative team have deep roots in Charleston, drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant family life and sense of community.
Easy Customization: The process is user-friendly, with guided prompts to help families select the perfect photos for each part of the story.
Emotional Impact: Customers consistently share stories of mothers and grandmothers moved to tears by these unique, heartfelt gifts.
Lasting Keepsakes: The books are designed to be treasured for years, capturing moments that might otherwise fade with time.
Consider Stareworthy Books flor Mother’s Day or any custom gift needs.
Follow on Instagram or explore your next customized book HERE.
Local Charleston, SC area author John Brian Eleazer has spent years focused on research and understanding of a period in time and group of brave individuals whose story has not yet been told. With limited narrative carried down from generations, John dove deep into his research identifying individuals, documents, literature and artifacts to piece together a very important story about the South Carolina Militia. His new book “The South Carolina Militia in the Revolutionary War: Captain Henry Felder & The Backcountry Defense” will be available May 13, 2025. It is now available for pre-order on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
If you are a fan of American and/or South Carolina history, this is a must read. Here is more information about the book, author and where to purchase.
When I was a boy my mother told me about my ancestor, a Revolutionary War patriot killed as he escaped his burning cabin wearing a lady’s dress. Such a story, I would never forget, and I was intrigued that there must be more to this story. As a carnivore of early American history and well-rooted South Carolinian, the contributions of my ancestor and the South Carolina militia’s accomplishments are rare footnotes in historical writings. In books and journal articles, the subject on the American militias is either dismissively described as undependable, inept in battle, or the subject is ignored altogether. On rare occasions, a historian may briefly entertain the South Carolina militia as a ‘garnish’ of small strokes with little benefit to the Great Cause or the ‘militia did not thirst for liberty enough’ or more condemning that the militia were ‘not worth the bread they eat’ as Nathanael Greene and George Washington had stated. The South Carolina Militia in the Revolutionary War challenged these statements directly, and especially in citing the accomplishments and operations in South Carolina.
While militias across the other twelve colonies may have a dubious record in isolated events, South Carolina’s militia was indeed different – mostly because of this colony’s uniqueness from the interior colony growth, the rise of the colony government and militia, and importantly their early leaders. Using the early South Carolina challenges and growth, and the involvement or response of my ancestor, Henry Felder; The South Carolina Militia in the Revolutionary War explore the colony’s events and unique and exceptional destiny. In many ways, the beginnings of the colony set up a collision course between the mostly aristocracy of Charlestown intersection with their inland and growing backcountry neighbors.
In contrast to other colonies, South Carolina interior beyond Charlestown was largely planned-settlements communities populated by emigrants with affluent and engaging leaders. These backcountry leaders succeeded in mutually resolving differences with the Charlestown representatives during the colony’s early growing pains. Although delicate, their mutual resolve helped secure the settlements while establishing the colony self-government, an early interior judiciary and militias. Intangibles of independence, a certain level of trust, and tenacity grew between the coastal settlement and inland neighbors in these early years; however, stability required constant nurturing and backcountry leaders such as William Thomson, Richard Richardson, Henry Felder and many others. Henry Felder’s achievements and influence parallel each critical moment in the South Carolina journey towards independence; initially as a merchant farmer in the midland district of Orangeburgh (present day Orangeburg); and after the Regulator movement, a Justice of Peace. And after the Continental Congress’ Continental Association boycott, he served as enforcer and subsequently as an elected district representative and active member to the Second Provincial South Carolina Congress. In Congress and as foreman of the Grand Jury prior to the Declaration of Independence, Henry and fellow jurist delivered the Declaration endorsement of South Carolina’s first constitution and openly avowed, “Whilst engaged in an arduous but glorious Struggle for the preservation of those invaluable Rights and Liberties, which, by the Laws of Reason, and of Nature, all men have a right to possess”.
In readiness and service during the seven-year Revolutionary War, the early District militias progressed under one of the three primary South Carolina militias (Sumter, Marion and Pickens brigades) after the fall of Charlestown in May 1780.
As author and South Carolina Revolutionary War historian, Michael Scoggins’ Epilogue in The Day it Rained Militia: Huck’s Defeat, Scoggins observed history’s downplaying of the Revolutionary militia. He pointed out that the many battles won by the Carolina Backcountry were ‘extraordinary’ and in contrary to many historians that ‘downplayed and even maligned’ performance or usefulness of the militia. This generality and too easy criticism are challenged and easily debated by the militia’s successes, and especially notable as the Continental Congress and Continental Army were largely absent during the most brutal times in South Carolina.
The latter chapters discuss the militias and their use of rifles in the several tide-changing battles concluding with the final major battle in South Carolina at Eutaw Springs. The purported narratives to stereotype all American militias based on General George Washington and General Nathaneal Greene opinions are simply contrary to the South Carolina militia and their accomplishments. Without question, General Washington’s personal experience as an early militia leader, himself, and as Continental General, may have provided anecdotal evidence when he claimed the militia was ‘hurtful upon the whole’. Or General Greene’s military studies and philosophy on professional trained soldiers likely condemned militia value with his trivializing opinion on the militia as only ‘Partisan strokes in War are like garnish of a table … and reap little benefit’. The statements are defamatory when used generally and unsupported by facts in the specifics. The South Carolina militia were the lone resistance in South Carolina for long periods of time, continually bedeviling and intercepting the British logistics and shattered the British ‘Southern Strategy’ to defeat the Southern colonies. Consistently over several long years, the militia provided navigation, scouts, supplies, and intelligence to the various continental generals in the southern theater – a unique militia ability. However, when ignored by commanding generals the resulting military disaster soon followed.
Offensively, the militia provided an advantage when used tactically. Comparable to the more known Northern Campaign of Daniel Morgan’s Virginia Riflemen, the Carolina backcountry riflemen provided a deadly edge in several battle engagements, including the Breach at Sullivan’s Island, Blackstock’s Plantation and Cowpens. While a fierce debate may exist on the exact merits of the American Militia or the long-rifles contribution in winning the Revolutionary War; the contributions were nonetheless grand and irrefutable. The number of skirmishes, the battlefield casualties in South Carolina, and the British generals and historians attest to the mettle of South Carolina’s defense. Chronicling the conflict in South Carolina, Britian’s leading philosopher, stateman and historian Sir Edmund Burke reflected in 1783, “Most of these actions would in other wars be considered as skirmishes of little account, and scarcely worthy of the detailed narrative. But these small actions are as capable as any of displaying military conduct…. It is by such skirmishes that the fate of America must be necessarily decided. They are therefore as important as battles in which a hundred thousand are drawn up on each side.” [The Annual Register of History, Politics, and Literature.]
The South Carolina Militia provides an account of the South Carolina militia. This is their story, historically and personally intertwined in sacrifices by many of ancestors, our legacy in gaining our liberty and freedom. As far as winning the war, conclusions are inescapable. Our independence was entirely doubtful without the backcountry long-rifle, the South Carolina militia stand and their lone resistance to the British and Loyalist armies in the south. Persistence and resistance built upon the volunteered Carolina militiamen’s individual convictions and sacrifices, an ignited spirit for over seven years with only the supplies and weapons they brought from their homes – – their magnificent moment. The South Carolina militia rifleman deserve more than footnotes and epilogues, their story must be told. Like many unsung South Carolinian heroes, Henry Felder and his sons did not seek recognition; they had adopted this country much earlier and were more than willing to give their all for it. Many gave their last full measure. And this is their story.
About the Author – Brian Eleazer
Brian Eleazer is a native South Carolinian and a direct descendant of Henry Felder, the protagonist in ‘The South Carolina Militia in the Revolutionary War’. Brian is also the direct descendant to another book-referenced patriot, Johann Stephen Eleazer. Johannes Eleazer was a farmer and Spring Hill tavern keep in South Carolina Deutsch Fork area, above present-day Columbia that supplied the patriots throughout the war. The tavern likely hosted William Henry Drayton in 1775 as Drayton attempted to recruit American patriots near the Congaree and Broad Rivers and the tavern remains a family home, and possibly the oldest functioning structure on the boundary of Lexington and Richland Counties.
From grade school and through encouragement from his mother, a long-time elementary teacher and family researcher, Brian has visited many Civil War and Revolutionary War battlefields across the Southeast and continuously research our early American history. In his travels, Brian has built a network of friends and historian acquaintances including Paul Bartow previously at USC History Department, the late historian and author Michael Scoggins, and Chris Weatherhead-Felder and Clarence Felder, directors of Revolutionary War movies, All for Liberty and John Lauren’s War. Chris Weatherhead and Clarence Felder are co-founders of the Actors Theater of South Carolina (ATSC), a multiple international award-winning movies and films where Brian serves as advisor.
For the past fifteen years, Brian has written and added material to Henry Felder’s story originally for family consumption and expanded to document the seldom chronicled story of the South Carolina militia. Additionally, Brian has written several short stories for his children and grandchildren. He shares historical research pieces in social media and, on occasion, has posted comments and debate on national articles about the Revolutionary militia and South Carolina heroes.
Brian graduated from Clemson University, BS in Ceramic Engineering and Auburn University with a master’s in business administration. Always a student of history, Brian enrolled in most of the American History class offered at Clemson and remains an avid reader. After Clemson, Brian entered the United States Air Force, serving 21 years as officer in joint service assignments and subsequently served in the Defense Department for an additional 23 years; accumulation of 43-year career.
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