City of North Charleston

What is your vision for Charleston County Schools?

2012-02-01T14:31:00.000-05:00

Charleston County School District wants your feedback on proposed goals and strategies for its five-year strategic plan Charleston Achieving Excellence: Vision 2016.

Give feedback at R.B. Stall High School on February 13, 2012 at 6:00 pm.

Charleston County School District's (CCSD’s) current strategic plan Charleston Achieving Excellence centers on four priorities: Literacy Improvement, Effective Teaching and Leadership, World-Class Schools & Systems, and Strategic Partnerships. CCSD has three goals: 1) Close the achievement gap; 2) Elevate achievement overall; and 3) Raise the graduation rate.

In the 2011-2012 school year, CCSD is launching community engagement to prepare for the next stage of the plan—Charleston Achieving Excellence: Vision 2016. This next phase will strengthen the district’s emphasis on literacy improvement and teacher effectiveness and create bold annual performance targets for all students.

Graphs of Vision 2016 Goals: Third Grade English/Language Arts (ELA), Third Grade Math,Eighth Grade English/Language Arts (ELA), Eighth Grade Math, Graduation Rate

See what has been said so far...

In fall 2011, the CCSD Board of Trustees met with various stakeholder groups. In January and February 2012, the district held community meetings deisgned to garner feedback from the public. The League of Women Voters has compiled notes from the meetings.

Notes: Principal Advisory Group on 11/1/11

Parent & Employee Survey Results: The district is taking steps to better support students and implement a more comprehensive performance-based accountability system across the district. The Studer Education Group is helping the district set and achieve Vision 2016 goals, improve supports for staff and parents, and identify opportunities for improvement. In December 2011, parents and employees were asked to complete engagement surveys. These are "baseline" surveys, giving the district a starting point for discussion. The Board of Trustees received copies of the survey results, and department heads and principals are being trained on the roll-out of survey results and next steps.

Works from The Goose Creek Artists Guild at City Gallery in February

2012-02-01T13:57:00.000-05:00

Rocks Meet the Sea by Karen Gaag

Works by members of the Goose Creek Artists Guild will be on exhibit at the North Charleston City Gallery from February 1-29, 2012.

A free reception will be held at the gallery on Thursday, February 2, from 5-7pm. Many of the exhibiting artists will be present and refreshments will be served. The public is invited to attend.

Poppies by Trish Emery

The Goose Creek Artists Guild, founded in 1982, will present its Annual Judged Show featuring two-dimensional works in a variety of subjects and mediums including oil, watercolor, acrylic, drawing, pastel, and mixed media. Ribbons for Best of Show as well as first, second, and third place will be awarded by guest juror, Chris Groves. Guild president, Karol Skelly, will present the President’s Choice award to the winning artist at the reception. In addition, visitors to the exhibit will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite piece in the show, which will be awarded the People’s Choice ribbon at the conclusion of the exhibition. For more information about the Goose Creek Artists Guild, find them on Facebook.

The North Charleston City Gallery is located in the Charleston Area Convention Center with free parking and admission during regular Convention Center operating hours 9:00am-5:00pm, daily. The Gallery is staffed on Friday, Saturday, and Monday only. Inquiries regarding artists or purchase information may be directed to the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at (843) 740-5854. For information on additional exhibits, programs, and events, visit the Cultural Arts section of the City’s website at www.northcharleston.org.

Shipwatch Square: its history and current redevelopment updates

2012-01-25T08:26:00.000-05:00

Update #3 January 12, 2012
Building 2, which was parallel to Meeting Street Road (former home to Woolworth's and Belks) has been demolished, as has the bank at the intersection of McMillan and Rivers Avenue.

Update #2 November 21, 2011

Demolition continues.

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Update #1 November 8, 2011
The demolition of the old Shipwatch Square is ongoing. The building that formerly housed a Chinese restaurant and the Howard Johnson restaurant has been demolished, as well as the shopping center building parallel to McMillan Avenue. The contractors are currently demolishing the bank building (former home to Wachovia, and before that South Carolina National Bank) at the corner of McMillan and Rivers Avenues.

The removal of asbestos containing materials from the remaining two shopping center buildings is proceeding. Afterwards, the final two buildings will be demolished.

Please note that Shipwatch’s last remaining tenant, “Citi Trends,” has relocated to the shopping center on Rivers Avenue at Aviation Avenue. Auto Sound Specialist (747-0047) remains in business at its current location, as does “Lord of the Harvest” in the former movie theater at the corner of McMillan Avenue and Meeting Street Road.

___________________

November 7, 2011

History of Shipwatch Square

In 1895, long before Pinehaven Shopping Center, the City of Charleston established 600-acre Chicora Park north of the its boundaries along the Inland Trail. The Trail itself was a vital route of commerce, carrying goods between the sea coast and the Midlands of South Carolina. Over the next decade, the United States Navy took possession of 1,575 acres along the west bank of the Cooper River, consuming the Park through its expansion. Eventually, a 20-acre site was developed just outside of the Naval Base gates for the Pinehaven Sanatorium, a health care facility for tuberculosis patients.

In 1958, the Pinehaven Shopping Center was built on the site of the former sanatorium and consisted of 200,000 square feet of retail business. Pinehaven’s landmark structure was a central circle tower that bore the its name and held all of the lighting for the parking lot hidden within the top circle of the tower.
The shopping center opened for business September 17, 1959. Two grocery stores, a national retail clothier, one national five and dime store, one large local retailer, one bank and numerous small businesses made up the complex. In future years a cinema was added. The shopping center was very successful for decades and the occupancy of tenants remained high. As the area continued to develop from the presence of the Naval Base, the center was renamed Shipwatch Square.

Although the shopping center began to decline with the establishment of area indoor shopping malls, a major blow came when the US Navy announced the closing of the Naval Base and Shipyard in North Charleston, displacing 12,000 civilian and 8,000 military employees. This was a large economic setback to the immediate area as many of the workers would use the retail outside of the base to shop and dine. Winn Dixie was the last major tenant, vacating the center in 2005 as part of the chain’s closure of all its grocery stores in South Carolina. The rest of the center maintained a few lower tier establishments, but was generally unoccupied.

In 2002, the City created a new vision for the 3,000 acres south of I-526 and east of I-26 from Cosgrove Avenue to the Cooper River known as the Noisette Community Master Plan. Real estate ventures began to rise as investors bought into the City’s new vision. Shipwatch Square was purchased by new stakeholders who had an ambitious development plan. However, the US economy began to slip in 2008 and the new development did not progress. The City was patient in encouraging private enterprises, but in the end, redevelopment was not initiated.

Redevelopment begins

The City of North Charleston purchased 16.4 acres of the center in 2010, leaving the corner property for the former developer to negotiate a sale with a drug store. After the developer’s negotiations fell through, the City acquired the final parcel on the corner of McMillan and Rivers Avenues in 2011.

North Charleston has created a number of conceptual plans for the property and is working with the surrounding businesses and an adjacent church to find the appropriate mix of tenants and financing to make the redevelopment successful. The City intends to create a complete master plan and secure development partners for its implementation.

The City approved a lease with Walgreens and a local developer to become the first tenant in the new center. The drug store chain will lease the property for 3 years and thereafter have the option to purchase the parcel located at the corner of McMillan and Rivers Avenues. The City is also in negotiations with a bank to locate on site.

The City feels that housing should be major component of the development to attract residents into the immediate area. The North Charleston Housing Authority is investigating building its new offices at Shipwatch Square. In addition, the city has received interest in relocating to the site from Charleston County Library, Clemson University Extension Service, Fetter Health Care Clinics, Charleston County Health Services, the Pinehaven Post Office, and the Small Business Administration.

According to the US Department of Agriculture, the area around Shipwatch Square has been classified as a food desert. The Mayor and City Council are committed to attracting a full-service grocery as the anchor tenant of the location’s redevelopment. This effort may also include community or urban gardens, farmers markets and educational activities for the community. The City is currently in discussion with several grocery store chains.

The City of North Charleston remains very optimistic about the success of the redevelopment. This is a wonderful opportunity to create a new community in the south end of the city and provide the residents a deserving quality place to work, live, play, and shop.

Mayor Summey to deliver State of the City address

2012-01-23T07:33:00.000-05:00

Photo by Chrys Rynearson

Mayor R. Keith Summey will present the 2012 State of the City address for the City of North Charleston on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 7:00 pm in Council Chambers at the North Charleston City Hall.

The State of the City will also be streamed online at http://www.northcharleston.org and will be redisplayed on the City’s website following the initial presentation at City Council.

Charleston County Reminds Citizens of Election Dates and Deadlines

2012-01-13T11:03:00.000-05:00

Republican Presidential Preference Primary Election 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2011

The Charleston County Board of Elections and Voter Registration office reminds the public of the following important dates related to the upcoming Republican Presidential Preference Primary election on Saturday, Jan. 21:

Friday, Jan. 20

Deadline for in-person absentee voting is 5 p.m.
For more information on absentee voting, visit: http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/BEVR/absentee.htm

Saturday, Jan. 21

Election Day polls are open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
7 p.m. is the deadline for absentee ballots to be returned.
For more information on voting on Election Day, visit: http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/BEVR/voting.htm.

Thursday, Jan. 26:

Challenge/provisional ballot hearing and certification at 10 a.m. at the Elections Office located at 4367 Headquarters Road in North Charleston.

For any election related questions, contact the Charleston County Board of Elections and Voter Registration as follows:

Online at http://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/BEVR/index.htm.
By email at bevr@charlestoncounty.org
By phone at (843) 744-VOTE (8683)

Watch the January 12, 2012 City Council Meeting

2012-01-12T16:29:00.000-05:00

The commercials displayed in the UStream player above are not
endorsed or sponsored by the City of North Charleston.

Download the Agenda

Input Sought for Arts in Education Initiative, North Charleston to host Engaging Creative Minds Public Forum

2012-01-09T07:50:00.000-05:00

The Charleston County School District, the Cities of Charleston and North Charleston, and the College of Charleston have convened a community planning process, titled Engaging Creative Minds, to determine how the cities, schools and arts & cultural resources can collectively serve area youth more equitably and with higher impact in the classroom.

The community will have an opportunity to learn more about this initiative and offer input at a public forum at North Charleston City Hall on Thursday, January 12, from 6:45-8:00pm.

Dallas-based non-profit, Big Thought, has been asked to facilitate this six-month process, in coordination with a community task force made up of local stakeholders. Big Thought made its first site visit to Charleston on November 9 and 10 in order to begin a planning timeline that will ultimately result in a set of recommended outcomes, program design, and a governance structure for the initiative.

In an effort to garner community input and support for this project, there will be two public forums held, the first of which will take place in North Charleston. Educators, artists, arts organizations, and the general public are invited to participate in these forums. For more information, contact the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at 843-740-5854 or visit www.bigthought.org.

What: Engaging Creative Minds Public Forum
Who: Charleston County School District, the Cities of Charleston and North Charleston, the College of Charleston, and Dallas-based non-profit, Big Thought
Where: Montague Conference Room, 2nd Floor, North Charleston City Hall, 2500 City Hall Lane North Charleston, SC 29406
When: Thursday, January 12, 2012, 6:45-8:00pm

Green Grove Community Center ribbon cutting

2012-01-06T15:17:00.000-05:00

North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey and City Council Members cut the ribbon to the newly completed Green Grove Community Center, located at 2634 Bennett Yard Road.

With the facility's opening, it will became the City's 19th community center to come online. The City's 20th community center is currently under construction on Dorchester Road and is scheduled to open later in the spring.

Green Grove Community Center will be utilized for neighborhood association meetings, afterschool programming, senior activities, and will serve as a summer camp site.

MLK Jr. Celebration Concert - Free Tickets Available

2012-01-05T08:29:00.000-05:00

The City of North Charleston's Cultural Arts Department is proud to sponsor a commemorative concert honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at 7:00 pm on Saturday, January 14, 2012, at Royal Missionary Baptist Church (4761 Luella Avenue, North Charleston).

The Charleston Symphony Orchestra Gospel Choir, under the direction of Sandra S. Barnhardt, and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra Spiritual Ensemble, under the direction of Nathan L. Nelson, will perform an inspirational concert, titled His Light Still Shines, as a tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The concert is FREE, but advance tickets are required. For tickets (limit 4), pick up in person at the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department office on the 2nd floor of North Charleston City Hall. Tickets are also available for pick up at Royal Missionary Baptist Church.

Bill Stanfield named North Charleston Citizen of the Year

2012-01-04T15:47:00.000-05:00

After numerous nominations received, the North Charleston Citizen Advisory Council has selected Bill Stanfield as the 2011 North Charleston Citizen of the Year. Each year, North Charleston residents are nominated to identify, honor, and reinforce the activities of exceptional citizens whose service or performance positively contributes to the quality of life in North Charleston.

It is necessary for Citizen of the Year recipients to possess and demonstrate a generous community spirit, prove their commitment, and display a consistent effort of positively impacting the community, thereby raising the standards of social responsibility.

Bill Stanfield resides in the Chicora-Cherokee community with his wife Evelyn and two sons. He is an associate minister at St. Matthew Baptist Church and the cofounder of the Metanoia Community Development Corporation.

Mr. Stanfield’s work with Metanoia has been instrumental in implementing many programs leading to direct advancements of our communities, including student leadership programs, housing development for depressed neighborhoods, minority contractor training, and a production kitchen for culinary arts job training. In addition, Metanoia is currently renovating two buildings on Reynolds Avenue in an effort to spark commercial revitalization.

North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey stated, “I met Bill years ago through his work in the community, where he remains a source of encouragement for the Chicora-Cherokee area.” He continued, “It is wonderful to have leaders, like Bill, working in concert to improve the quality of life in the southern end of the City. I cannot think of a more deserving individual to receive this honor.”

Loris Starnes Isom at City Gallery in January

2011-12-29T10:28:00.000-05:00

Little Miss Sunshine II by Lori Starnes Isom

Works by the City’s current Artist-in-Residence, Lori Starnes Isom, will be on exhibit at the North Charleston City Gallery from January 3-31, 2012.

The artist will host a free reception at the gallery on Thursday, January 5, from 5pm-7pm. The public is invited to attend.

In Possessions: Portraits of Me, My Family and My Dog, Isom presents a diverse collection of portraits, including studies, practice sketches, and pieces never before exhibited. The works in this exhibit provide a window to the artist’s life and reveal her growth as a painter. “I try to instill in the kids I teach that art is not about perfection. It’s about being true to who you are and honest in expressing what’s important to you,” she explains. “So, the pieces that make up this exhibit are some of my personal favorites. Many were just fun to do, a few challenged me greatly, and others were very cathartic.”

After majoring in Fashion Illustration at Parsons School of Design in New York, Isom furthered her adventures in the arts by working for several years as a dancer and actress in New York and Los Angeles. However, her passion for drawing and painting brought her back to the world of visual arts. As a figurative and portrait artist, she has been commissioned to do hundreds of individual and family portraits, many of which include military personnel and heads of companies. She has also shared her love and knowledge of art by instructing budding young artists in both public and private art sessions. Lori’s work has been featured in the pages of American Art Collector. She has participated in numerous juried exhibitions and has been awarded several fine art awards.

The North Charleston City Gallery is located in the Charleston Area Convention Center with free parking and admission during regular Convention Center operating hours 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, daily. The Gallery is staffed on Friday, Saturday, and Monday only. Inquiries regarding artists or purchase information may be directed to the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at (843) 740-5854. For information on the Artist-in-Residence program, additional exhibits, and events, visit the Cultural Arts section of the City’s website.

North Charleston to swear in Mayor and new City Council

2011-12-28T15:08:00.000-05:00

North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey and City Council will be sworn in on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 6:00 pm in Council Chambers at North Charleston City Hall. The swearing in ceremony follows the November 8 municipal elections for Mayor and all ten City Council seats.

Mayor Summey was re-elected to his 5th full term in office. Re-elected Council Members include: Ed Astle (District 1), Rhonda Jerome (District 2), Bobby Jameson (District 3), Dorothy Williams (District 6), Sam Hart (District 7), Bob King (District 8), and Michael Brown (District 10). Newly elected Council Members include: Ron Brinson (District 4), Todd Olds (District 5), and Dwight Stigler (District 9).

Visual & Performing Artists Sought for 2012 North Charleston Arts Festival

2011-12-27T14:37:00.000-05:00

The City of North Charleston's Cultural Arts Department is now accepting applications from artists in music, theatre, dance, visual art, crafts, photography, media arts, and literary arts to participate in the 2012 North Charleston Arts Festival to be held May 4-12.

A variety of individuals and groups are being sought to represent national, regional, and local arts professionals, cultural organizations, community programs, and schools. Artists may apply for inclusion in the Main Event Weekend, held May 5 and 6 at the Charleston Area Convention Center Complex, as well as for Individual Events, which take place at various locations throughout North Charleston during the festival week.

Visual artists should note that this particular application should be used to apply for events and presentations such as installations, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, film screenings, lectures, etc., and not for participation in the Festival’s Juried Art Competitions. Applications are available on the web at www.northcharleston.org under Cultural Arts. The deadline for Artist Applications is Wednesday, January 4, 2012.

The North Charleston Arts Festival is one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the Lowcountry, providing thousands of residents & visitors with a fabulous array of performances, exhibitions, and activities. The Main Event, held the first weekend in May, offers free admission and parking to over 40 performances on four themed stage stages; General Audience, Cultural Heritage, Youth Entertainment, and Bands. Other Main Event activities include judged art, photography, youth art, and fine craft exhibitions, a gem & mineral show, an antique show, children's activities, art & craft booths, and an outdoor food courtyard. The Arts Festival continues with numerous free or moderately priced ticketed events throughout the week at various locations around North Charleston and concludes with fireworks over the Cooper River at the Grand Finale at North Charleston Riverfront Park.

For information, visit the North Charleston Arts Festival page or download an application. Call the Cultural Arts Department office at (843) 740-5854 for additional information.

A bid farewell to 3 outgoing Council Members

2011-12-21T09:54:00.000-05:00

North Charleston City Council and Mayor Keith Summey bid a farewell to three long-serving Council Members during their final council meeting on Thursday, December 21, 2011.

Outgoing members include:
Ms. Phoebe Miller, serving since 2003
Mr. Steve Ayer, serving since 1997
Mr. Kurt Taylor, serving since 1997

Mayor Summey and the 3 outgoing Council Members offer remarks about their time served and future endeavors in the video below.

TWL Precision Announces Expansion in North Charleston

2011-12-21T07:36:00.000-05:00

TWL Precision, a worldwide supplier of precision automotive components, announced plans to expand its current operations in Charleston County. The $5 million investment is expected to generate 35 new jobs.

“We are pleased to move forward with plans to expand our operations here,” said Jeff Teague, general manager for TWL Precision. “This expansion will really help our company expand its footprint in the U.S. and help us better serve our customers in the area. Charleston County has provided a great home for our operations.

TWL Precision will expand its current facility in the Palmetto Commerce Park. The expansion will double the company’s current manufacturing space and is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2012.

The company first started operations in the area in November 2007. The expansion will bring the number of employees at the company’s plant to 90.

“The expansion of TWL Precision gives us confidence that the City of North Charleston and the greater Charleston region remains a ripe environment for businesses to flourish,” said North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey. “We applaud TWL Precision’s success and are thankful for the capital investment and job creation that our community will receive.”

“Manufacturing is continuing its upswing in South Carolina, especially in the automotive-related sector. TWL Precision’s expansion is another sign our state’s business-friendly climate is helping companies prosper,” said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

Since the beginning of the year, South Carolina has recruited more than $3.9 billion in investment and more than 12,000 new jobs in the manufacturing sector.

“Congratulations are in order for TWL Precision Inc. as they announce this great expansion project,” said Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor. “TWL Precision Inc. is an international automotive leader and represents the cream of the crop in highly skilled manufacturing in Charleston County. As the company writes this new chapter of its success story in North Charleston, we at Charleston County are glad to be their partners. We will remain fully engaged to assist the company well into the future, and also to safeguard and further improve the area business climate we believe will be instrumental to continued success.”

The company will begin hiring for the new positions in the second half of 2012. TWL Precision Inc. contracts with local staffing agencies that will recruit using local advertising and media outlets.

About TWL Precision
TWL Precision is a VTL Group Company. VTL Group is a progressive international company specializing in the development and manufacture of complex precision parts and assemblies for automotive powertrain applications. The Group is present in Europe, North America, India and Japan employing over 450 people with combined revenues totaling $110 million. For more information, please visit www.vtl-group.com.

North Charleston chosen as award finalist by the International Award for Livable Communities

2011-12-20T14:43:00.000-05:00

The City of North Charleston was named a finalist in two categories for the International LivCom awards, which were selected based on applications submitted to the Board of the International Awards for Livable Communities, based in Berkshire, UK earlier this year.

The LivCom awards are a United Nations Environment Program-backed competition designed to recognize civic environmental achievement. Since the awards competition was held in Songpa, South Korea this year, it was decided to defer any presentations until the competition is held in North America.

“No question, it is an honor to be selected as a leading city for sustainability in the world,” says North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey. “We hope to participate in future LivCom competitions. Nonetheless, this announcement is on a par with the National League of Cities and Home Depot Foundation awards of the past two years.”

Only two other American cities were finalists in the global awards program, Carmel, Indiana, and, Albuquerque, New Mexico. No American cities won awards in their respective categories at the competition in South Korea. Overall, the competition involved three days of intensive evaluation for 77 finalist cities from 26 countries. This was the largest awards event yet for LivCom.

North Charleston was a finalist for Category C (cities with populations from 75,001 to 150,000) in the Whole City awards, for its efforts at sustainable revitalization and urban planning of the East Montague Corridor and Park Circle. The City’s Oak Terrace Preserve residential project was a finalist for the Project Award, for its role as a prototype for sustainable, urban infill development.

Watch the December 20, 2011 City Council Meeting

2011-12-20T13:32:00.000-05:00

Download the Agenda

A Christmas message from Mayor Keith Summey

2011-12-14T13:48:00.000-05:00

On behalf of the City of North Charleston, Mayor Keith Summey wishes all a very Merry Christmas!

North Charleston officials earn professional achievements

2011-12-12T15:24:00.001-05:00

David Dixon, MIS Director
David successfully graduated from the 2011 Certified Government Chief Information Officers Program™ at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Government, offered in conjunction with the Municipal Association of South Carolina.

The CGCIO™ program is the first local government specific program for CIOs in the nation and began in 2005. The program is designed for local government Chief Information Officers and Information Technology Directors whose challenging responsibilities require a broad understanding of management, leadership, legal, regulatory, and enterprise topics.

David Dixon is one of the nine public sector leaders in South Carolina who successfully completed the course this year.

Darbis Briggman, Chief Building Official
Darbis was named "Member of the Year" by the Coastal Code Enforcement Association. Darbis was nominated for this award by the building group responsible for the construction of the Boeing 787 Final Assembly Facility in North Charleston, SC.

The nomination cites the project being completed ahead of schedule leading to multiple industry awards. It continues stating, "these achievements would not have been possible without the cooperation, professionalism, and dedication extended to us by Darbis, and his team at the North Charleston Building Department."

Garrett Academy builds themed playhouses, all to be auctioned for local charities

2011-12-08T14:49:00.001-05:00

Garrett Academy of Technology students built four themed playhouses to be auctioned off to benefit three local charities (MUSC Children’s Hospital, Lowcountry Food Bank and The Ronald McDonald House of Charleston). The playhouses will be on display at the Felix C. Davis Community Center in Park Circle.

Dean Wilson is accepting offers for the auction until December 23, 2011. To bid, call Dean at 345-2458.

Local business partners have donated the materials to the Construction Program at Garrett Academy of Technology for a real life work experience.

The materials, valued in excess of $6,000, were donated by:
CarolinaOne Real Estate - Dean Wilson and Mark Kerse
Harbor Homes
Capitol City Homes
Rex Thompson Homes
CCSD - Garrett Academy of Technology

Watch the December 8, 2011 City Council Meeting

2011-12-08T09:28:00.001-05:00

Download the Agenda

Village Antiques & Collectibles HOLIDAY Show

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

We invite you to the City of North Charleston’s Village Antiques & Collectibles HOLIDAY Show in Park Circle at the Felix C. Davis Community Center on December 10 & 11 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm each day.

Special Friday night preview December 9 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The Show will feature home decor, fine antiques, furniture, collectibles, antique guns, art, jewelry, rugs, crafts, vintage toys & games, silver, pottery, china, silver, salvage items, outdoor decor, vintage instruments, and more.

Admission is $2.00, all of which will be benefits The Spay Not Slay Endowment.

Park at no cost.

A food court to dine.

For more information, contact Lisa Reynolds at (843) 740-2531 or via email at lreynolds@northcharleston.org.

Boeing opens Interiors Fabrication Facility in North Charleston

2011-12-06T07:09:00.001-05:00

Interiors Facility under construction, taken in March 2011

Facility will supply Boeing South Carolina with 787 interior components.

Last week, Boeing celebrated the opening of its new Interiors Fabrication facility in North Charleston.

The Interiors Responsibility Center South Carolina team will manufacture 787 interior parts including stowbins, closets, partitions, class dividers, floor-mounted stowbins used by flight attendants, overhead rests for flight-crews and flight attendants, video control stations and attendant modules for Boeing South Carolina.

Elected officials and representatives from community and business groups and local construction companies joined hundreds of Boeing employees to commemorate the opening.

"As part of today's celebration we acknowledge and thank you all for welcoming us into the community, and showing us your support as we bring our facility on line," said Lane Ballard, Boeing Interiors Responsibility Center South Carolina director. "We look forward to delivering our first set of interior components to Boeing South Carolina in 2012."

Boeing's Site Services Group, BRPH and Pattillo Construction were recognized at the ceremony for completing the facility on schedule. Pattillo's crew worked more than 500,000 labor-hours without a lost-time accident.

The 300,000 square foot (27,871 square meters) facility includes state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, and employees will use the latest Lean processes and tools to efficiently produce interior components to match 787 production rates at Boeing South Carolina.

North Charleston High School students tour Boeing facility

2011-12-02T07:37:00.001-05:00

On Friday, November 11, 2011 North Charleston High School Logistics Students earned the privilege of being the FIRST school group to tour the new Boeing facility.

Boeing has partnered with the Charleston County School District to create a new major in Logistics. North Charleston High School has one of only two Logistics programs in the state of South Carolina. After an introduction to the company and a welcome from Boeing Senior Managers, students were taken on a tour of the campus. They were able to view the production line and see first-hand the logistics involved in building an entire airplane.

The highlight of the tour took them through the 787 Final Assembly building, which is the size of 12 football fields. Inside, the first 787 is to be entirely assembled in the North Charleston facility was being finished. The tour ended at the new visitor’s center where the students were given Boeing 787 t-shirts for participating in the Logistics program at NCHS.

Logistics is a class that will prepare students for a successful career in Materials Handling. Other local businesses such as Piggly Wiggly, CGI, Pearlstine, and Trident Technical Institute have partnered with this program to ensure its success. All of these businesses hire high school graduates in this area and are committed to hiring NCHS students that successfully complete the Logistics Major.

The Logistics Class is designed to provide students with the fundamentals of Warehousing and Distribution. It is an introductory course in Material Handling within a warehouse environment. Students will learn the concepts of warehousing and material logistics, as well as, how materials are handled, moved, stored, controlled and protected within a warehouse.

Christmas Events and Parade (Updated with photos)

2011-11-29T11:02:00.000-05:00

Update: Parade photos added

___________________________________________

To celebrate the upcoming holiday season, the City of North Charleston will host the following public Christmas events.

Christmas Festival and Parade

Saturday, December 3 from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm around Park Circle with the Christmas Parade beginning at 6:00 pm. The Christmas Festival includes a Holiday Market with children activities, craft vendors, food vendors, and live musical performances on three stages. The Christmas Parade begins at the corner of Montague and Mixson Avenues, proceeds down Montague, around Park Circle, and concludes at Armory Park.

Immediately following the Christmas Parade, Mayor R. Keith Summey and Santa Claus light the City’s Christmas tree located outside the front entrance of the Felix C. Davis Community Center.

A map displaying each event and the parade route.

Winter Wonderland

Thursday, December 1 and Friday, December 2 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon at Armory Park. This free pre-school event provides young children an opportunity to visit Santa, participate in hands-on activities, including holiday arts & crafts, and take part in live performances and music.

Live Performances on Thursday & Friday by Becky Becker of Becky’s Box of Puppets, helping children discover the joy of reading and weaving magical tales that come to life before your eyes are two of Becky's trademarks.

For required pre-registration, contact the North Charleston Parks & Recreation Department at (843) 745-1028.

Children’s Theatre

Friday, December 2 at 10:00 am at Sterett Hall Auditorium, Atlantic Coast Theatre presents a Beatrix Potter Holiday. Famous children's author, Beatrix Potter, arrives to entertain the guests at her annual holiday party. Stories such as "The Tailor of Gloucester" and "The Rabbit's Christmas Party" come to life on stage with the help of the audience. Her most famous character, Peter Rabbit, may even surprise the guests.

This performance is full but a waiting list is available in case of cancellation. Call 740-5854 for more information.

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 3 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am at Felix C. Davis Community Center. Breakfast with Santa gives area children the opportunity to visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. A hearty meal is provided. Tickets can be purchased Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at the Felix C. Davis Community Center for $4.00 per person.

To purchase tickets, contact the North Charleston Parks & Recreation Department at (843) 745-1028 or visit the Felix C. Davis Community Center.

$5 to $50 Gift Market

Saturday, December 3 & Sunday, December 4; 11:00 am-3:00 pm at The Meeting Place. Presented by the North Charleston Artist Guild.

The $5 to $50 Gift Market is the perfect place to purchase original art, jewelry, and fine crafts by local artists as gifts for family and friends this holiday season. Admission is free and, as the name suggests, everything will be priced at or below $50. More information at northcharlestonartistguild.org

Christmas lights and displays will shine at Park Circle and on the eight exterior islands nightly from December 3 until New Year’s Day.

PHOTOS: Christmas Festival and Parade

For general inquiries, the public should visit www.northcharleston.org or contact Sheri Pearson at (843) 740-2538.

Wescott Golf Club open house with local vendors, prizes, and giveaways

2011-11-28T11:39:00.000-05:00

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation staff and the City of North Charleston invite you to our Open House Event.

Don’t miss out on a day full of fun that will include a kid’s zone, live music, food & specialty drinks, desserts, golf contests, games, over 30 local vendors with prizes and giveaways and much more! The combined value for the door prizes, raffles, and giveaways will be in the thousands so come by for a chance to win many great prizes, gift cards, and products from local businesses.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation

5000 Wescott Club Drive

North Charleston, SC 29485

IT'S FREE

Lunch, Activities, and Giveaways

11:00 am – 3:00 pm

RSVP for Lunch & Activities

(First 500 to register online and check-in at event will automatically be
entered in a raffle for a 3-month golf pass valued at $400)

Golf Tee Times

8:00 am – 4:00 pm

(Sign up early for preferred times. For just $10 enjoy 9 holes of
championship golf which includes green/cart fees and bottled water)

RSVP for Golf - Enter code: 5000Must RSVP

Golf registration will be limited to the first 200 players that sign up for the event!

Must RSVP by Thursday, December 1, 2011

Watch the November 22, 2011 City Council Meeting

2011-11-22T13:00:00.000-05:00

Download the Agenda

A.C. Corcoran commemoration of our Veterans

2011-11-22T11:30:00.000-05:00

On Friday, November 11, 2011 A.C. Corcoran Elementary welcomed service men and women who served valiantly for our country.

Corcoran Elem. celebrated Veteran’s Day with a school-wide assembly program. The Student Council led the program with the Military Magnet color guard leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The guest speaker was retired Lt. Colonel Charles Johnson, who is also CCSD District 4 Board Member for the Innovation Zone Learning Community (IZlC). Lt. Colonel Charles Johnson was escorted by the entire first grade outside to lead a march with song. Corcoran also recognized our staff, parents, friends, and community members who are Veterans.

Melissa Walker & John Humphries at City Gallery in December

2011-11-22T07:46:00.001-05:00

Holes Drilled in Poseidon by John Humphries

Concurrent solo exhibitions by Melissa Walker and John Humphries will be on exhibit at the North Charleston City Gallery from December 1-30, 2011. Both artists will host a free opening reception at the gallery on Thursday, December 1, 2011, from 5pm-7pm. The public is invited to attend.

Evening in New Begun Creek by Melissa Walker

Course Corrections, new work by Melissa Walker will feature the artist’s most recent series of acrylic and collage paintings. Melissa’s work is influenced by abstract expressionism and incorporates many mixed media elements, such as nautical charts and silhouettes. Her pieces illustrate the essence of the ocean and the areas around it by depicting atmospheric conditions and times of day without creating a realistic view. The viewer is brought into the work with titles that repeat locations on the charts in many of the paintings. Each piece lends itself to the individual viewer’s interpretation. “Some will see the image as a bird’s eye view, much as you would view a map or look at the earth from an airplane,” she explains. “Others will see the same painting as a landscape, with the traditional sky, horizon line and water. It is up to you to choose how you view each work of art.”

Melissa Walker is a National Board Certified art educator with over 20 years experience teaching elementary, middle, high school and adult students. She received a BA in Art Education from East Carolina University and an MFA in Painting and Printmaking from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. She has continued to study painting with well known artists and instructors Robert Burridge, Bob Rankin, Joe Deguilio, Sterling Edwards, and Jack Shields. Melissa is a member of the Pastel Association of North Carolina and the North Carolina Watercolor Association, and is a long time member of the North Carolina Art Education Association. For more information, visit melissawalkerartist.com.

Drawn From Nothing features speculative design drawings in watercolour by Ohio based artist, John Humphries. Humphries’ drawings bridge the gap between architectural form and painting and combine delicate wooden constructions to maintain a tension between built form, sketches, and landform. Each piece strives to convey the character of the Midwest industrialized agrarian landscape full of built structures and machines overlain with textures maximized for crop growth, infrastructure, and the remnants of glacial and geological forces. According to Humphries, these drawings operate in three very important areas of architectural exploration. First, they address the process of making and discovering new forms and spatial relationships. Secondly, the drawings provide a way of seeing the world, particularly the most minute subject and exploring it. Finally, the physical artifacts demonstrate for the viewer a way of thinking about cities, landscape, design, and architecture in many ways, allowing the viewer to consider space and the role drawings play in capturing spatial ideas. “Concept drawings are essential to the experiences of design as love is essential to humans,” Humphries explains. “Love which, unlike sex, is not essential to propagation--one can live without it, but does not live very much. The hybrid landscapes in the drawings promise everything that is more than that which is necessary—everything that compelled immigrants to transform a wilderness and everything non-utilitarian in culture.”

Having completed degrees in Architecture and Design with a brief foray as a saucier and metal-smith, John Humphries is now a visual artist, gardener, and designer focusing on translating one media form to another. He currently directs graphic media at Miami University within the School of Fine Arts. His work has been exhibited nationwide, most notably at the Core Gallery for Biennale of the Americas (Denver, CO), Warehouse Gallery one (Peoria, IL), Dorothy Reed Gallery and Phyllis Weston Gallery (Cincinnati, OH), Gallery See (Atlanta, GA), Rosewood Gallery (Kettering, OH), and Arlington Museum of Art (Arlington, TX). For more information, visit his website at albatrossjim.com.

The North Charleston City Gallery is located in the Charleston Area Convention Center with free parking and admission during regular Convention Center operating hours 9:00AM – 5:00PM, daily. The Gallery is staffed on Friday, Saturday, and Monday only. Inquiries regarding artists or purchase information may be directed to the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at (843) 740-5854. For information on additional exhibits, programs, and events, visit the Cultural Arts section of the City’s website at www.northcharleston.org.

Streit USA Armoring announces expansion in North Charleston

2011-11-18T07:23:00.000-05:00

Streit USA Armoring, a maker of armored vehicles, today announced plans to expand current operations in North Charleston. The $5.8 million investment is expected to generate more than 50 new jobs over the next three years.

“Demand for our products has grown, so we needed to grow in order to keep up. We are pleased to have the opportunity to grow here. North Charleston and South Carolina have provided an excellent business climate and a great location for our business, and we look forward to expanding here. We’d also like to thank our builder, Frampton and Associates, who has helped us move this project forward,” said Eric Carlson, vice president/partner of Streit USA Armoring.

Streit USA Armoring will establish a new facility to be built by Frampton and Associates in the Palmetto Commerce Park, moving its existing operations from a leased building. The move will allow the company to add four new production lines, greatly increase its output and more than double the manufacturing space to 75,000 square feet.

“We are always excited when one of our existing businesses chooses to increase its footprint in South Carolina. We celebrate Streit USA Armoring’s decision to expand and create more than 50 new well-paying jobs in North Charleston,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.

“Congratulations to Streit USA Armoring on this exciting expansion news,” said Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor. “This dynamic company occupies a very unique security market niche, and we are gratified to have them expand their operations in North Charleston during such trying economic times. I am confident that our skilled workforce, superior logistics and positive business climate will be a recipe for profitability as Streit continues to grow. As they do, they will always have a steadfast partner in Charleston County.”

“The expansion of Streit USA Armoring to Palmetto Commerce Park gives us confidence that North Charleston and the greater Charleston region remain ripe environments for businesses to flourish,” said North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey. “We applaud Streit’s success and are thankful for the capital investment and job creation in our community.”

“It’s wonderful to see the automotive industry strengthening and growing in our community,” said Charleston Regional Development Alliance Chairman R.M. Singletary. “Streit USA Armoring’s expansion is good news for us all, particularly the Port of Charleston, another key driver of our regional economy. This partnership will continue to drive economic prosperity throughout the three-county region for years to come.”

Proximity to the Port of Charleston was an important factor when the company initially decided to locate operations in the area. The company will continue to import parts and export finished products through the port.

“We appreciate Streit USA Armoring’s trust in our port, the region and our state,” said Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority. “The Port of Charleston has the quality facilities, skilled labor and support industry to handle any international shipping need.”

The company will begin hiring for the new positions next summer, and will be using ReadySC to assist with the hiring process.

For more information about the company, please visit www.armored-cars.com/streit/.

Cummins Inc. announces expansion of test facilities

2011-11-16T11:35:00.001-05:00

Flickr user mudmucks

Cummins Inc. announced today an investment of $24 million over three years to expand the research and development capabilities at its technical center in North Charleston, S.C.

The Cummins Technical Center will be capable of running a variety of engines and test a wide range of fuels. Plans call for hiring 31 new engineers, mechanical technicians and electrical technicians immediately with more potential hires in the future.

"The expansion nearly doubles capacity at this site with state-of-the-art facilities to enable testing on diesel, pipe line natural gas and non standard gas engines and help the Company in its drive to be the innovation leader in the industry," said Jim Trueblood, Vice President -- High Horsepower Engineering. "We are excited to be able to partner with the State of South Carolina and expand our testing facilities right here in North Charleston."

"A package put together by state and local officials, access to a skilled workforce and community amenities capable of drawing skilled workers in the future all played an important role in our decision," said Gary Johnson, Operations Manager, Cummins Technical Center, "Having a company facility that could be renovated was an important factor as well."

Representatives of Charleston County and the City of North Charleston participated in today's announcement. "As one of Charleston County's most long-standing corporate citizens, Cummins has been a major employer in our community for the past 30 years," said Teddie Pryor, Chairman of Charleston County Council.

"This exciting news concerning the growth of the Technical Center in North Charleston is a gratifying testimonial to the company's faith in our workforce," Pryor added.

North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey said: "We thank Cummins Technical Center for their continued commitment to doing business in North Charleston. Cummins' research and development facility is a catalyst to our advancing high tech economy."

The Charleston Regional Development Alliance hosted the event. "Smart companies like Cummins are using innovation as a key driver of economic growth and we're pleased to celebrate their continued investment in our community," said CRDA Chairman R.M. Singletary.

Cummins is proud to be a valued employer and partner in the Charleston area and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the City of North Charleston, Charleston County and the State of South Carolina.

About Cummins

Cummins Inc., a global power leader, is a corporation of complementary business units that design, manufacture, distribute and service engines and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission solutions and electrical power generation systems. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana, (USA) Cummins employs approximately 40,000 people worldwide and serves customers in approximately 190 countries and territories through a network of more than 600 company-owned and independent distributor locations and approximately 6,000 dealer locations. Cummins earned $1.0 billion on sales of $13.2 billion in 2010. Press releases can be found on the Web at http://cummins.com .

Veterans Day in North Charleston

2011-11-15T14:29:00.001-05:00

The City of North Charleston hosted its annual Veterans Day tribute on Friday, November 11, 2011 from at Park Circle with keynote speaker Colonel Frank S. Taylor. Over 500 veterans in attendance were honored.

The Department of Defense and the National Committee for Veterans Day selected North Charleston as a Regional Site for Veterans Day 2011. North Charleston is the only regional site in the State of South Carolina.

Major Joe Lysaght of the 3rd BDE South Carolina State Guard, gives the History of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Ten year old Tre' Williams reads his essay on what it means to be a veteran.

In Photos

CALLING ALL ARTISTS! 2012 North Charleston Arts Festival design competition underway

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

The City of North Charleston is calling all artists to participate in the 2012 North Charleston Arts Festival design competition. The winning piece will become the official design of the 2012 Arts Festival and will be featured on promotion materials and merchandise, including advertisements, brochures, posters, apparel, online, and more. The 2012 North Charleston Arts Festival will be held May 4-12, 2012.

The winning artist will receive $500, have their piece become part of the City’s Public Art Collection, and be given an opportunity to exhibit other works at the North Charleston City Gallery during the Arts Festival.

Applications will be online starting November 15, 2011 with a deadline of Saturday, January 21, 2012 at 12:00 noon. There is NO entry fee to participate. The competition is open to South Carolina residents ages 18 and older. Categories of work accepted are: acrylic, oil, drawing/pastel, watercolor and mixed media.

Applications Here

Call the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department for more information at (843) 740-5854.

The North Charleston Arts Festival is organized and presented by the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department and numerous volunteers. The nine-day celebration of the arts is one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the Lowcountry, providing over 30,000 residents & visitors with an array of performances, exhibitions, and activities. The festival maintains the spirit of a community celebration with the mission of presenting a comprehensive, multi-discipline event schedule that provides an array of performing, visual, media, and literary arts events for people of all ages and backgrounds. The festival is accessible to all with numerous free and moderately priced events.

Post election interview with Mayor Summey

2011-11-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

North Charleston Mayor R. Keith Summey is joined by local TV stations and reporters for an informal Q&A following his victory in the 2011 Mayoral elections.

Election Results

Charleston County School District makes ratings leap

2011-11-10T13:34:00.000-05:00

According to district report cards released by the South Carolina Department of Education today, CCSD’s growth rating jumped from “Below Average” to “Excellent,” and its Absolute rating increased from “Average” to “Good.” The district’s graduation rate rose from 67% last year to 72% this year.

CCSD SCHOOLS 2010	CCSD SCHOOLS 2011
26 Excellent	30 Excellent (+4)
5 Good	6 Good (+1)
27 Average	25 Average (-2)
14 Below Average	12 Below Average (-2)
12 At Risk	12 At Risk

“Our district’s ‘Excellent’ growth rating and ‘Good’ absolute rating show that when we focus on literacy and teacher effectiveness—two hallmarks of Charleston Achieving Excellence—it really pays off for students,” said Dr. McGinley. “This continued progress is a testament to our teachers’ hard work, our principals’ leadership, and our parents and community members’ commitment to public schools and the students they serve.”

CCSD’s jump in its growth rating was attributed specifically to the substantial improvement of historically underachieving groups of students. CCSD schools showed progress across multiple categories, including Gifted and Talented education, Advanced Placement, and the graduation rate. This year, the state’s graduation calculation was changed to better reflect the true four-year graduation rate. “We’re very encouraged by these results, and at the same time, we’re not content so long as there are achievement gaps and our absolute rating is ‘good’,” said Dr. McGinley. “The next phase of our strategic plan—Vision 2016—is all about accelerating our progress, setting bold goals, focusing our resources on proven strategies, and building an accountability system driven by what’s best for students and the entire community.”