Throughout the plantation era, literacy for most Blacks was illegal, and even when education was allowed during Reconstruction, there were no resources for teaching children of the emancipated. It wasn’t until 1904, nearly four decades after the Civil War ended, that the doors opened to Long Point Schoolhouse, the first school for Black students in the Snowden … [Read more...]
Jumping Into Action: Teacher Saves Student from Choking
Every parent remembers the first day that they sent their kid to school. It can be gut-wrenching and anxiety-inducing. When mom Mariesa Eikevik sent her son Mason to school recently, she had no idea the call that she would receive later that day. Mason entered Carolina Park Elementary School like he does every morning and walked into Mrs. Johnnie Williams’ classroom. He … [Read more...]
Longtime Sullivan’s Island Town Administrator Retires
He hasn’t started counting the days yet, but when the first day of summer arrives, Andy Benke will have stepped down from his longtime role as town administrator with Sullivan’s Island. Benke’s last day will be June 18 and even though he has been with the town’s government since June 2003, he has no intention of retiring to another place since Sullivan’s Island has been his … [Read more...]
Sworn to Protect: Former Police Chief Carl Ritchie Runs for Charleston Cty Sheriff
Safer communities, tighter school security and better resistance to cybercrime and child trafficking are four issues that Charleston County sheriff candidate Carl Ritchie intends to achieve if elected. Ritchie, a current member of Mount Pleasant Town Council and a 33-year veteran of law enforcement, is making his first bid for sheriff. He has spent the last three decades of … [Read more...]
Man Of Fortune: Beloved Fisherman to Receive Memorial Statue at Shem Creek
When dawn breaks on Shem Creek, there will soon be a glimmer on the water like never before. Atop the boardwalk that connects both sides of the creek will stand a bronze, life-size statue of a man who is now remembered as a Lowcountry legend. His name is Captain Wayne Magwood and soon his legacy will forever be enshrined as a testament to the role he played in preserving the … [Read more...]
The Breaking Point: The Meteoric Rise of Local Tennis Star Emma Navarro
Emma Navarro has arrived. Not only is she having a breakthrough season, it seems like overnight she has emerged as one of the best women’s tennis players in the world. The 22-year-old Ashley Hall graduate is playing like a seasoned veteran and currently ranked World No. 20. Navarro is one of the top seeds in this year’s Credit One Charleston Open. She’s the 10th best player … [Read more...]
Teacher Evaluation Report Card on CCSD’s New Superintendent
Charleston County School District has suffered a great deal of volatility in leadership, hiring their fourth superintendent in two years. New hire Anita Huggins looks to rewrite that narrative. In January, CCSD’s board offered Huggins, acting superintendent at the time, the position permanently. After a week of consideration, she accepted and signed a three-year contract paying … [Read more...]
Blessing of the Fleet Trawls On: Shrimp, Shrimp, Hooray!
In the heart of our beloved Mount Pleasant, where the salt-kissed breeze mingles with the laughter of locals and visitors alike, lies a tradition steeped in community spirit: the Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival. As the sun dances on the tranquil waters of Shem Creek, we will gather to honor our seafaring heritage and extend our heartfelt gratitude to the fearless … [Read more...]
Charting a New Course: Charleston Race Week Forms New Partnership with Patriots Point
Charleston Race Week returns April 18-21 for the 28th installment of its regatta and this year marks the launch of a new partnership with Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum that will transform the competition into one of the most unique regattas worldwide. On Jan. 11, Charleston Race Week Director Randy Draftz, Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie and Patriots Point … [Read more...]
Serving Up Aces: Credit One Charleston Open Continues to Wow
The award-winning Credit One Charleston Open, the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America, returns to Daniel Island March 30-April 7. The Credit One Charleston Open (COCO), celebrating its 52nd event this year, has become a favorite among tour players, having been named ‘WTA 500 Tournament of the Year’ two years in a row. It annually draws some of the world’s … [Read more...]