Chas Coker at Wando In a significant education development for the local school community, Chas Coker has been named the next principal of Wando High School. The announcement, made by the school district in early May, marks a new era for Wando. Coker, a highly respected and experienced leader, brings with him extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of education, … [Read more...]
Served & Protected Beloved: Longtime Mount Pleasant P.D. Officer Retires
At the age of 12, Mount Pleasant Police Department Captain Chip Googe already knew exactly what career he wanted to pursue when he grew up. Googe’s father worked for the Charleston County Police Department, eventually moving to the Charleston County Sheriff’s Department. His uncle worked in law enforcement as well. Growing up around a family with law enforcement ties made an … [Read more...]
Power (Up) Lifting with Carl Ritchie
Charleston native Carl Ritchie has always lived a life of service. From the military to law enforcement to Mount Pleasant Town Council, everywhere he goes he tries to leave things better than he found them. Presently his focus is on the South Carolina Special Olympics Powerlifting team, where he’s using physical fitness and strength training to empower young athletes to succeed … [Read more...]
Autism and Man’s Best Friend: Our world is Coming Up Daisies
Autism. The word may invoke some preconceived notions and conjure up movie scenes ..from Tom Cruise’s “Rain Main.” But as ..a mother of a young adult on the spectrum, I’ll be the first to tell you, just like neurotypical kids are all different, so are neurodivergent ones. Sometimes my son Luke (19) — a brilliant classical guitarist, musician and techie — just like all of us, … [Read more...]
The Start of the Mount Pleasant Boom: Bayview Acres
Bayview Acres. The name itself is charming, and it was meant to be. In the early 20th century, Bayview Acres was created to lure city folks to the burgeoning suburban community of Mount Pleasant, an early piece of the puzzle that would grow into the modern metropolis we know and love today. In 1937, the town of Mount Pleasant launched a campaign to draw downtown Charleston … [Read more...]
A Blast from Our Past: Mount Pleasant Families Recite Memories of Growing Up in Town
Many families are drawn to Mount Pleasant because of its great schools, variety of sports activities, the wonderful neighborhoods, its lovely parks — the list goes on and on. But some families have known the charm of Mount Pleasant for generations, long before it grew into a bustling suburb approaching 100,000 residents. Anne DuPre Royall’s family is one. Her branch of … [Read more...]
A Lowcountry In Bloom: The Gardens Are Open, So Come On In
Spring has arrived again, and throughout the Lowcountry the landscape is transforming all around us. Dedicated gardeners have returned to their modest flower beds while full-time horticulturists prepare their tools to create magnificent floral and arboreal masterpieces for all to see. Many of the area’s prominent plantations and historic sites boast some of the most amazing … [Read more...]
Sommbá Cocina: The Dance Between Wine and Food
On Jan. 31 the front doors opened to Sommbá Cocina restaurant, and the shape of dining in Mount Pleasant would never be the same. From the high-octane team that brought you SAVI Cucina and Wine Bar, Sommbá promises small plates with big flavor — and an even bigger wine cellar—to keep guests coming back for more. When they set out to open their new restaurant, business … [Read more...]
Laurel & Lawton: Gifts For Any Occasion
Laurel & Lawton has only been open for seven months but it is already becoming a household name. The brainchild of retired teacher Ashley Davis, this boutique store full of unique and thoughtful gifts has found a niche in the Queensborough Shopping Center. “I went through a period where I wasn’t working during the pandemic and I thought to myself, ‘What’s my skill set, … [Read more...]
Strong in Faith: Christ Our King-Stella Maris
Certifications, accreditations and awards — Christ Our King-Stella Maris has earned numerous accolades. An exceptional school, COKSM uses the successful president/principal administration model that ensures a cohesive relationship between academics and operations. The elementary and middle school has thrived under the leadership of president John Byrnes and principal Susan … [Read more...]