Charleston News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Charlestons historic preservation debates come to a head as the BAR saves a Philip Simmons-linked property, setting a precedent for other rundown homes. However, a safety hazard on Upper King Street is demolished, highlighting the ongoing challenges in historic preservation.

Former Mayor Joseph P. Riley Juniors memoir, Windows on Washington Square, set to release in January 2026, offers a unique glimpse into his life and work. The hardcover book will be launched at the historic Dock Street Theatre, with Trinity Simons Wagner praising Rileys influence on urban design across America. The memoir delves into Rileys leadership, focusing on equity, conviction, and his role in shaping Charlestons historic core, public spaces, and civic leadership.

In response to a tight labor market due to baby boomer retirements, Renewable Water Resources (ReWa) in Greenville, South Carolina, is innovating its recruitment and retention strategies. Jay Blankenship, ReWas director of workforce engagement, shares insights into their new initiatives, including enhanced training programs, local educational partnerships, and a focus on employee development. These efforts highlight the importance of proactive measures for organizations facing workforce challenges in todays evolving job market.

Last chance for timely holiday mail: USPS deadlines and preparations for the busiest week of the year. Deadlines vary by service and location, with Priority Mail Express cutting it close on December twentieth. Postal Service invests in new technology, vehicles, and facilities to manage the holiday rush, including hiring seasonal staff. Post Offices closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Measles cases surge in South Carolinas Upstate region, prompting CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic to offer MMR vaccine. Health officials warn of the diseases high contagion rate, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. CVS and MinuteClinic teams provide guidance on recognizing symptoms, vaccine protection, and holiday travel precautions. Stay informed and vaccinated to protect communities.

Orangeburg County authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run involving a bicyclist on U.S. Highway twenty-one. The suspects vehicle, a white or light-colored Kia Forte from 2016-2018, is missing its passenger side mirror. The public is urged to provide any information about the vehicle or the incident.

Charleston Mans Inspiring Run: Breaking Ribbons for Cancer Families Ryan Cass, a Citadel alumnus, recently completed a 200-mile run across South Carolina to support families battling cancer. His nonprofit, Breaking Ribbons, aims to raise funds and awareness for the financial burden of cancer treatment. Despite harsh conditions, Casss journey has raised over $30,000 in two years, with emotional moments when meeting the families he supports. He plans to expand his route and fundraising efforts in the future.

Man Charged in Fatal Shooting Back in Jail After Bond Revocation Kristofer McDonald, a 21-year-old charged with involuntary manslaughter and assault in a shooting that killed a woman and injured her husband, is back in jail after his bond was revoked. McDonald was originally charged after a shooting in October 2024, during which he was hunting at night with a shotgun near a neighborhood trail in Summerville, South Carolina. Lori Wind, 54, died, and her husband was wounded while they were walking their dog. McDonald had been under house arrest since December 2024 but was arrested for failure to stop for blue lights and driving an uninsured vehicle. The new charges led to his bond revocation, and he will remain in custody until his next court appearance.

21-year-old Thomas Brienza, who falsely claimed to have a bomb and gun at Charleston International Airport, was sentenced to probation and community service instead of prison. He was encouraged to perform outrageous acts for social media by an older man. Brienzas actions, deemed dumbest by his attorney, were captured on a glasses-mounted recording device for social media content.