Plumbers in Charleston, SC

Longtime IAAM director Grady Crosby will now take the helm as chair.

The Winston-Salem, N.C., native and insurance executive is based in Milwaukee, where he is vice president and chief sustainability and impact officer for Northwestern Mutual. He joined the IAAM board in mid-2018

“Charleston is now home to one of the world’s most significant cultural institutions chronicling the African diaspora, and I look forward to building upon the foundation created by so many in this community who envisioned the success of this project,” Crosby said in a written statement.

Since its opening in June, the $120 million IAAM has welcomed more than 135,000 visitors to the former site of Gadsden’s Wharf off Concord Street along the peninsula's waterfront, according to officials.

Crosby predicted the second year will be an “exciting period of growth and operational maturity for the IAAM.” He added that the board's goal is make it a place where "all can learn, be inspired and build bridges to generations of people who were unable to tell their story."

Former Chair Wilbur Johnson, a Charleston attorney, was a founding IAAM board member and chairman for the past 12 years. During his tenure, organizers raised more than $125 million in public and private funds to bring the long-planned project to life.

Tonya Matthews, the museum's CEO, said Crosby's "wealth of nonprofit board experience and passion for what we do will provide inspiring leadership for the museum and its board as we move forward into this next generation of the IAAM journey."

An F-22 Raptor fighter jet participating in an exercise called "Sentry Savannah" was involved in an "aircraft mishap" at about 11:30 a.m. Monday, according to the Air National Guard 165th Airlift Wing.

The runway was closed temporarily, forcing three flights to be redirected to Charleston International, where officials said the planes taxied until they were cleared to return to the Savannah airport.

None of the aircraft deplaned while at CHS or affected other flights.

The F-22 incident remains under investigation. The pilot was not injured, the Air National Guard said in a statement.

Editor's note: The story has been updated to replace an erroneous photograph.

Kion North America said May 7 that it is partnering with Fox Robotics to make FoxBot-branded autonomous loaders that use onboard cameras and special laser sensors that can measure distances and avoid obstructions to navigate loading docks and warehouses.

The material-handling devices can detect a range of pallet types and move loads up to 3,000 pounds to and from programmed locations.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Our traction in the marketplace is tremendous, and Fox Robotics is at an inflection point in its growth arc,” the Austin, Texas-based company’s CEO said in a written statement. “We are experiencing unprecedented demand and have a massive list of bookings for Fox Robotics products and solutions. The partnership with Kion will most certainly pave the way to capture all this commercial growth.”

Fox Robotics said the FoxBot, introduced commercially in 2019, can improve workplace safety and increase productivity.

Retail giant Walmart said last month that it will try out 19 of the machines at four distribution centers, according to a report by Grocery Dive. The retail giant’s import distribution center in Ridgeville is not among the test sites, which are in Florida, Texas, New York and Alabama.

Walmart, which owns a minority investment stake in Fox Robotics, has said in investors meetings that it intends to increase the use of AI and automation technologies at all of its distribution sites in coming years.

BMW, which builds sport-utility vehicles in Greer, has also invested in the company through its iVentures venture capital firm.

“The logistics space is the single biggest market for automation for the next ten years,” Till Reuter, director of Fox Robotics’ board, said in a written statement. “Converting the shipping and receiving dock, the gateway to the warehouse, from a manual operation to an automated one will drive the greatest growth and change.”

Some of the same people who fear that school libraries contain an arsenal of forbidden narratives also complain that students aren’t reading.

I agree that we need to promote literacy, but why is there so much conflict about what children are reading if they supposedly aren’t reading?

South Carolina is not known for having stellar public education, but I suspect the state’s high poverty rate is more responsible for academic and mental health issues than literary classics and contemporary literature.

I have read some of the books that have been banned in Spartanburg County School District 1, and I am much more disturbed about the conversations I have had with disabled residents, pregnant women and children who are experiencing homelessness.

Some media are baptized with stories about gun violence, but I doubt children are having nightmares because of “Nineteen Minutes,” a novel that follows the unfolding of a school shooting.

Most students have seen videos of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, yet more people fear young minds are being traumatized by “Slaughterhouse-Five,” Kurt Vonnegut’s novel about a character dealing with his post-war psychological trauma.

It would be wonderful if transforming our community could be achieved by casting out stories that are a reflection of a world that children experience.

One way to make our community a better place is to ensure all citizens have the freedom to read.

The ability to share ideas, knowledge and stories is the cornerstone of our republic.

META GRIFFIN

Spartanburg

On the subject of the now-closed Wentworth Street parking garage, I bought my house on Montagu Street in 1971 and lived there happily for 34 years.

Like David and Scottie Hoffman's and Jack Handegan’s families, I count myself proud to have been among the first wave of pioneering settlers to have recognized Harleston Village for the jewel it was and to make it my home.

What is being confronted at this juncture is, at a basic bottom line, a continuation of the massive historic failure of successive municipal and college administrations to acknowledge that the inner peninsula and Harleston Village, in particular, are places to be valued and respected.

The College of Charleston and its thousands of students should never have been shoehorned into such a tight geographic area with finite parking options.

The college should have been required decades ago to locate as many programs as possible off of the peninsula and to develop required satellite parking with a shuttle system for students.

Instead, students assume the right to have their own car and to jam the city’s streets to the detriment of adjacent neighborhoods.

This is a massive failure.

Given the solid degree of proactivity evidenced thus far in dealing with such thorny concerns, I am hopeful that the Cogswell administration will step in to problem-solve around this critical issue where previous administrations have failed to do so.

TERRY C. FOX

Johns Island

What’s on your mind? Join our community conversations and let your voice be heard by writing a letter to the editor. Letters can be a maximum of 250 words and are subject to editing for clarity, tone and libel. They must include the writer’s name and city for publication and a daytime telephone number for verification. Email your submissions to [email protected] or fill out the form on our online portal.

Get a weekly recap of South Carolina opinion and analysis from The Post and Courier in your inbox on Monday evenings.

Some of the same people who fear that school libraries contain an arsenal of forbidden narratives also complain that students aren’t reading.

I agree that we need to promote literacy, but why is there so much conflict about what children are reading if they supposedly aren’t reading?

South Carolina is not known for having stellar public education, but I suspect the state’s high poverty rate is more responsible for academic and mental health issues than literary classics and contemporary literature.

I have read some of the books that have been banned in Spartanburg County School District 1, and I am much more disturbed about the conversations I have had with disabled residents, pregnant women and children who are experiencing homelessness.

Some media are baptized with stories about gun violence, but I doubt children are having nightmares because of “Nineteen Minutes,” a novel that follows the unfolding of a school shooting.

Most students have seen videos of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, yet more people fear young minds are being traumatized by “Slaughterhouse-Five,” Kurt Vonnegut’s novel about a character dealing with his post-war psychological trauma.

It would be wonderful if transforming our community could be achieved by casting out stories that are a reflection of a world that children experience.

One way to make our community a better place is to ensure all citizens have the freedom to read.

The ability to share ideas, knowledge and stories is the cornerstone of our republic.

META GRIFFIN

Spartanburg

On the subject of the now-closed Wentworth Street parking garage, I bought my house on Montagu Street in 1971 and lived there happily for 34 years.

Like David and Scottie Hoffman's and Jack Handegan’s families, I count myself proud to have been among the first wave of pioneering settlers to have recognized Harleston Village for the jewel it was and to make it my home.

What is being confronted at this juncture is, at a basic bottom line, a continuation of the massive historic failure of successive municipal and college administrations to acknowledge that the inner peninsula and Harleston Village, in particular, are places to be valued and respected.

The College of Charleston and its thousands of students should never have been shoehorned into such a tight geographic area with finite parking options.

The college should have been required decades ago to locate as many programs as possible off of the peninsula and to develop required satellite parking with a shuttle system for students.

Instead, students assume the right to have their own car and to jam the city’s streets to the detriment of adjacent neighborhoods.

This is a massive failure.

Given the solid degree of proactivity evidenced thus far in dealing with such thorny concerns, I am hopeful that the Cogswell administration will step in to problem-solve around this critical issue where previous administrations have failed to do so.

TERRY C. FOX

Johns Island

What’s on your mind? Join our community conversations and let your voice be heard by writing a letter to the editor. Letters can be a maximum of 250 words and are subject to editing for clarity, tone and libel. They must include the writer’s name and city for publication and a daytime telephone number for verification. Email your submissions to [email protected] or fill out the form on our online portal.

Get a weekly recap of South Carolina opinion and analysis from The Post and Courier in your inbox on Monday evenings.

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that oozes charm and history, with cobblestone streets lined with pastel Antebellum homes, horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping by, and the scent of magnolia blossoms in the air. Charleston’s rich tapestry of culture and attractions makes it a popular destination year-round, but May is an especially enchanting time to visit. Temperatures are mild, the flowers are in bloom, and the social calendar is filled with exciting events. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here’s our guide to the 9 Best Things to Do in Charleston May 2024.

From exploring historic plantations to savoring delectable cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. May is an ideal time to experience Charleston’s renowned charm, where the warm weather encourages outdoor activities and the city comes alive with festivals and special events. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, indulge in its culinary delights, and create lasting memories in the beautiful setting of Charleston.

Explore Historic Plantations

Charleston is home to a number of historic plantations that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, a 738-acre plantation with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Take a tour of the opulent main house, stroll through the formal gardens, and explore the slave cabins that tell the stories of the enslaved people who worked the plantation. Other notable plantations to consider visiting include Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

Stroll through Charleston City Market

Charleston City Market is a bustling marketplace that has been a fixture in the city since the 1800s. Browse through the stalls of local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. You’ll find sweetgrass baskets, intricate jewelry, and souvenirs that are perfect for taking home as mementos of your trip. Be sure to sample some of the local cuisine, such as shrimp and grits or a benne seed cookie.

Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

One of the best ways to experience Charleston’s historic charm is to take a horse-drawn carriage tour. These tours depart from various points in the city and will take you past some of the most iconic sights, including Rainbow Row, the Battery, and White Point Garden. You’ll learn about the city’s history and architecture from your knowledgeable guide.

Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art

The Gibbes Museum of Art is home to a collection of over 10,000 works of American art. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the colonial era to the present day. You’ll find works by renowned artists such as John Singleton Copley, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper.

Attend the Spoleto Festival USA

The Spoleto Festival USA is a world-renowned performing arts festival held in Charleston each year. The festival features a diverse range of performances, including opera, theater, dance, and classical music. This year’s festival will take place from May 23-June 9.

Take a Day Trip to Sullivan’s Island

Spend the day at Sullivan’s Island, just a short drive from Charleston. This barrier island is home to beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or surfing. You can also visit the historic Fort Moultrie, which played a key role in the American Revolutionary War.

Explore Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a beautiful park located along the Cooper River. Take a walk or bike ride along the waterfront promenade, enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or simply relax and take in the views of the harbor. The park is also home to the USS Yorktown, a historic aircraft carrier that is now a museum ship.

Visit the Old City Market

The Old City Market is a lively indoor market located in the heart of downtown Charleston. The market is home to over 300 vendors, selling everything from produce to seafood to souvenirs. You’ll also find a variety of restaurants and bars in the market.

Enjoy the City’s Culinary Delights

Charleston is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants to choose from. From fine dining to casual seafood shacks, there’s something to satisfy every taste and budget. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and benne seed cookies.

Charleston is a welcoming city with plenty to offer visitors. From the vibrant Spoleto Arts Festival to the fascinating historic plantations and delicious culinary scene, there’s something to capture the interest of every traveler. Experience the Southern charm and rich history of Charleston when you visit in May.

Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels

Charleston is a city with a rich and diverse culture. The city’s history is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Charleston is home to a number of historic churches, museums, and plantations. The city also has a thriving arts scene, with a number of theaters, galleries, and music venues.

Charleston is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild. May is an especially good time to visit, as the city is in bloom and the temperatures are perfect for exploring.

Charleston is easily accessible by air, train, and car. The Charleston International Airport (CHS) is located just 12 miles from the city center. Amtrak’s Silver Star train provides service to Charleston from New York City and Miami. Charleston is also easily accessible by car from other major cities in the Southeast.

Charleston’s culinary scene is one of the best in the United States. The city is home to a number of award-winning restaurants, as well as a number of casual eateries and seafood shacks. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and benne seed cookies.

There are a number of great hotels in Charleston to choose from. Some of the top-rated hotels include:

Conclusion

Charleston is a beautiful and historic city with something to offer everyone. From its cobblestone streets to its world-class restaurants, Charleston is a city that will capture your heart. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, be sure to add Charleston to your travel list. With the “9 Best Things to Do in Charleston May 2024,” it’s the perfect time to experience the charm and hospitality of this vibrant city.

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city that oozes charm and history, with cobblestone streets lined with pastel Antebellum homes, horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping by, and the scent of magnolia blossoms in the air. Charleston’s rich tapestry of culture and attractions makes it a popular destination year-round, but May is an especially enchanting time to visit. Temperatures are mild, the flowers are in bloom, and the social calendar is filled with exciting events. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here’s our guide to the 9 Best Things to Do in Charleston May 2024.

From exploring historic plantations to savoring delectable cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. May is an ideal time to experience Charleston’s renowned charm, where the warm weather encourages outdoor activities and the city comes alive with festivals and special events. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, indulge in its culinary delights, and create lasting memories in the beautiful setting of Charleston.

Explore Historic Plantations

Charleston is home to a number of historic plantations that offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Visit Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, a 738-acre plantation with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Take a tour of the opulent main house, stroll through the formal gardens, and explore the slave cabins that tell the stories of the enslaved people who worked the plantation. Other notable plantations to consider visiting include Middleton Place, Drayton Hall, and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

Stroll through Charleston City Market

Charleston City Market is a bustling marketplace that has been a fixture in the city since the 1800s. Browse through the stalls of local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. You’ll find sweetgrass baskets, intricate jewelry, and souvenirs that are perfect for taking home as mementos of your trip. Be sure to sample some of the local cuisine, such as shrimp and grits or a benne seed cookie.

Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

One of the best ways to experience Charleston’s historic charm is to take a horse-drawn carriage tour. These tours depart from various points in the city and will take you past some of the most iconic sights, including Rainbow Row, the Battery, and White Point Garden. You’ll learn about the city’s history and architecture from your knowledgeable guide.

Visit the Gibbes Museum of Art

The Gibbes Museum of Art is home to a collection of over 10,000 works of American art. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the colonial era to the present day. You’ll find works by renowned artists such as John Singleton Copley, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper.

Attend the Spoleto Festival USA

The Spoleto Festival USA is a world-renowned performing arts festival held in Charleston each year. The festival features a diverse range of performances, including opera, theater, dance, and classical music. This year’s festival will take place from May 23-June 9.

Take a Day Trip to Sullivan’s Island

Spend the day at Sullivan’s Island, just a short drive from Charleston. This barrier island is home to beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or surfing. You can also visit the historic Fort Moultrie, which played a key role in the American Revolutionary War.

Explore Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a beautiful park located along the Cooper River. Take a walk or bike ride along the waterfront promenade, enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or simply relax and take in the views of the harbor. The park is also home to the USS Yorktown, a historic aircraft carrier that is now a museum ship.

Visit the Old City Market

The Old City Market is a lively indoor market located in the heart of downtown Charleston. The market is home to over 300 vendors, selling everything from produce to seafood to souvenirs. You’ll also find a variety of restaurants and bars in the market.

Enjoy the City’s Culinary Delights

Charleston is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants to choose from. From fine dining to casual seafood shacks, there’s something to satisfy every taste and budget. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and benne seed cookies.

Charleston is a welcoming city with plenty to offer visitors. From the vibrant Spoleto Arts Festival to the fascinating historic plantations and delicious culinary scene, there’s something to capture the interest of every traveler. Experience the Southern charm and rich history of Charleston when you visit in May.

Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels

Charleston is a city with a rich and diverse culture. The city’s history is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Charleston is home to a number of historic churches, museums, and plantations. The city also has a thriving arts scene, with a number of theaters, galleries, and music venues.

Charleston is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild. May is an especially good time to visit, as the city is in bloom and the temperatures are perfect for exploring.

Charleston is easily accessible by air, train, and car. The Charleston International Airport (CHS) is located just 12 miles from the city center. Amtrak’s Silver Star train provides service to Charleston from New York City and Miami. Charleston is also easily accessible by car from other major cities in the Southeast.

Charleston’s culinary scene is one of the best in the United States. The city is home to a number of award-winning restaurants, as well as a number of casual eateries and seafood shacks. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and benne seed cookies.

There are a number of great hotels in Charleston to choose from. Some of the top-rated hotels include:

Conclusion

Charleston is a beautiful and historic city with something to offer everyone. From its cobblestone streets to its world-class restaurants, Charleston is a city that will capture your heart. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, be sure to add Charleston to your travel list. With the “9 Best Things to Do in Charleston May 2024,” it’s the perfect time to experience the charm and hospitality of this vibrant city.