“I am here to announce a total project investment of $7.3 million from the Capital Project Funds grant project, $2.5 million investment from Home Telecom and $4.8 million from the ORS that will help connect 1,258 homes and 101 businesses in North Berkeley County by 2025,” said South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff Director Jim Stritzinger. “From my vantage point in the crow’s nest, I can see the end of the digital divide in South Carolina and it’s not five years out – it’s probably less than two – and we will have everyone in South Carolina connected,” he said to heavy audience applause.
Home Telecom Hosts Rural Broadband Celebration at Tri-Community Center in Cross
Member News • April 3, 2024
Home Telecom kicks off next $14.7 million rural broadband expansion project.
MONCKS CORNER, SC April 2, 2024 — On March 26 th , Home Telecom welcomed residents and leaders from the
tri-county region to their Rural Broadband Celebration. The event served as a milestone to reflect on the Fiber
expansions that have positively impacted the Lowcountry to date and also to kick-off Home Telecom’s next
$14.7 million rural broadband expansion project, beginning this week in north Berkeley County.
The celebration took place at the Tri-Community Center in Cross, SC, and opened with a heartfelt invocation
by Sr. Pastor Devita Brown of Poplar Hill Christian Church.
The event featured several prominent area leaders. In addition to Stritzinger, Awendaw Town Councilman
Frank Frazier, Assistant Deputy Administrator Shawn Arner with the USDA Rural Utility Service, and Berkeley
County School Board Member Yvonne Bradley representing the school board and Representative Joe
Jefferson, all shared the benefits of Home Telecom’s broadband expansion into the rural Lowcountry so far.
Berkeley County Councilman Caldwell Pinckney, Jr. said he has watched Home Telecom technology move from
party lines to broadband.
He brought chuckles from the audience when he compared the excitement of fiber broadband to how he felt
when Home Telecom first replaced his party line.
“It’s been a long time coming (broadband) … and it shows how a company and government can learn to work
together for the good of the people,” Pinckney said. “Good things happen to rural communities and that’s a
continuum we need to stay on. That’s going to be a blessing for a lot of folks.”
After a warm welcome from Home Telecom Vice President of Marketing, Gina Shuler, Home
Telecom President and CEO, William Helmly then led off the program by explaining how Home
Telecom’s journey to laying a fiber network to underserved customers in towns like Awendaw and
Harleyville is like a long, determined walk on a beach.
“Way out on the horizon, you see a long fishing pier extending out into the ocean,” he said. “It is so
far off you can barely see it, but that is your destination.
“And then when eventually you arrive at the pier, you look back from where you came and recognize for the
first time what tremendous progress you have made.
“That is where Home Telecom finds ourselves today – with 330 miles of fiber laid this year and at least the
same in 2025. But while we were working to get there, we realized we hadn’t told anybody what was going
on.”
Helmly continued, “Before we put our heads down again and focus on a new distant destination in Cross and
other communities in North Berkeley County, we are taking the time to celebrate those accomplishments.
That’s what today is all about.”
Between the broadband expansion projects completed and contractual commitments for the future, Home
Telecom has more than $60 million worth of projects on the books in Berkeley, Dorchester, and Charleston
counties.
“By the end of 2026, so much of the Tri-county area will be served with the most advanced technology
available anywhere in the country,” Helmly concluded.
Keynote speaker, U.S. Air Force Bronze Star Medal recipient Stacy Pearsall, executive producer and host of the
PBS television show After Action, took the stage to tell her story. She was accompanied by her service animal,
America’s Vet Dogs Charlie, formerly Today Show’s “Puppy with a Purpose”.
Seriously wounded at just 27 years old, Pearsall spoke about how “disconnected” she felt from everyone and
everything while recovering in a Veteran’s Administration hospital.
“Of course, I stood out like a sore thumb at the VA and a World War II veteran inspired me to reconnect with
my photography, which led to my starting After Action, showcasing every aspect of the military life after
returning home from deployment.”
The first season was taped from her farm in Harleyville, SC where they struggled with spotty cell phone service
and no fiber network.
“But just as we were starting Season two, Home Telecom brought fiber to Harleyville and you should have
seen my husband do a happy dance!”
She said Home Telecom is a huge part of the success of the show and attributed to a much more efficient
production of the next season of After Action.
“If we can touch and reconnect with one vet who needs it, whose life we can change before it is too late, then
we accomplish so much,” she said. “We need connectivity to be able to reach out and talk to each other, to
counsel veterans when they need it.”
Following the program, guests were treated to lunch and dessert provided by Awendaw-based Middleton's
Village BBQ.
For media use only: For more information regarding the Rural Broadband Celebration, contact
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — Local business leaders, elected officials, and community members gathered for the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Luncheon on Thursday, October 22. The event featured expert political insights from a Citadel professor and a panel of state representatives who shared recent legislative wins and priorities for the Lowcountry. Mark Owens, an associate professor of political science at The Citadel, served as the keynote speaker. Drawing on data from The Citadel Poll , Owens highlighted shifting voter trends and high civic engagement across the region. According to the survey data, 72 percent of Lowcountry voters are paying close attention to political issues, reflecting a well-informed electorate focused heavily on policy and trust. Owens also discussed the impact of the region's rapid growth, noting that nearly half of the area's residents moved from out of state more than a decade ago, establishing deep roots and a strong stake in South Carolina's economic and political future. Following the keynote, a panel of local lawmakers provided updates on key legislative achievements from Columbia: Rep. Gil Gatch (District 94): Highlighted the Republican delegation's success in securing $4 million in state funding for the town of Summerville to support public safety improvements, alongside the passage of the Energy Security Act to modernize power infrastructure. Rep. Harriet Holman (District 102): Pointed to major tax relief measures, including lowering the state income tax from 6% to 5.2% and raising homestead tax exemptions to $75,000, while emphasizing her ongoing commitment to bolstering training and support for first responders. Rep. Robby Robbins (District 97): Discussed the passage of the state Department of Transportation modernization bill aimed at saving time and money on infrastructure projects, as well as the revival of Canady’s Station in Colleton County into a major energy facility. Rep. Greg Ford (District 98): Shared his perspective as a new legislator dedicated to protecting small businesses from excessive regulation, particularly regarding hemp growers and CBD product sales. About the Greater Summerville Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce: The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce is a five-star accredited chamber dedicated to advancing economic prosperity through business advocacy, leadership development, workforce initiatives, and meaningful member engagement. Serving businesses of every size and industry, the Chamber works to create a stronger community throughout Summerville and Dorchester County.
As Phase 1 nears completion, the $47 million development brings thoughtful infill development, entrepreneurial opportunities, and a walkable experience to the heart of Summerville.
Now Accepting Applications & Nominations for 2026 Chamber Awards
Woman-owned business selected from more than 12,000 applicants nationwide for its resilience, innovation and commitment to workforce development SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — A Summerville small business is earning national recognition for its resilience, innovation and commitment to developing the next generation of skilled workers. Sew Fabulous LLC, a woman-owned alterations, bridal and embroidery business, has been named one of America's Top 100 Small Businesses through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's prestigious 2026 CO—100 program. Selected from more than 12,000 applicants nationwide, Sew Fabulous is being recognized as a 2026 Champions of Adaptability honoree , a distinction celebrating businesses that have demonstrated exceptional resilience, determination and innovative problem-solving in overcoming challenges. Founded in 2015 by British-born entrepreneur and military veteran Angela Humphries, Sew Fabulous has grown from a small alterations operation in her home into a thriving business offering everyday tailoring, bridal and formalwear alterations, corporate embroidery, uniform services and custom branding solutions. A defining part of Sew Fabulous's success has been its investment in workforce development and preserving the skilled trade of sewing. Recognizing a growing shortage of experienced sewing professionals, Humphries developed the curricula for two U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, creating structured career pathways for individuals interested in professional sewing and alterations. To date, the company has supported 11 apprentices through its training initiatives, including five who successfully graduated in 2026. The company also established Sew Fabulous Academy, an initiative designed to expand access to sewing education, strengthen technical skills and introduce new generations to career opportunities in the industry. Rather than relying solely on an increasingly limited pool of experienced workers, Humphries has made workforce development a central component of the company's long-term growth strategy. Humphries will travel to Washington, D.C., in October to participate in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's CO—100 celebrations alongside fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the country. About Sew Fabulous LLC Founded in 2015, Sew Fabulous LLC is an award-winning, woman-owned business headquartered in Summerville, South Carolina. The company specializes in everyday alterations, bridal and formalwear alterations, corporate embroidery, uniforms and branded apparel. Through its two U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs and Sew Fabulous Academy, Sew Fabulous is committed to preserving skilled trades, developing talented professionals and creating meaningful career opportunities. The company has earned more than 1,300 five-star Google reviews and numerous business recognitions. About Angela Humphries Beyond her business accomplishments, Humphries has demonstrated an enduring commitment to serving her community. Humphries was also honored with the Community Service Award by Summerville Chief of Police Doug Wright. She was one of the first two civilians to receive the award, recognizing her dedication to serving and strengthening the local community. Her community involvement includes supporting individuals experiencing hardship, contributing to charitable initiatives, and working alongside organizations dedicated to strengthening the local community. For Humphries, business success is measured not only through growth and profitability but also through the opportunities created for others and the positive impact a company can have on its community.
Summerville S.C.- Dorchester Habitat for Humanity is grateful to St. Paul’s Anglican Church for their generous $1,000 donation in support of the organization’s Building the American Dream initiative. This contribution will help Dorchester Habitat continue its mission of building safe, affordable homes for families in Dorchester County. Through the Building the American Dream initiative, the organization is expanding homeownership opportunities and helping local families create a stronger foundation for their futures. “We are incredibly grateful to St. Paul’s for its generosity and commitment to our community,” said Erin Roach, Director of Development and Marketing. “Support from local churches and community partners move our mission forward and bring us one step closer to a future where more families have a safe, affordable place to call home.” Dorchester Habitat partners with qualifying families to achieve homeownership through home construction, financial education, and a 30-year, zero-interest mortgage. Homebuyers also contribute at least 425 hours of sweat-equity, working alongside volunteers and staff to help build homes. The organization’s Building the American Dream initiative reflects its continued commitment to transforming Dorchester County one home at a time. Through the generosity of churches, businesses, individuals, and volunteers, Dorchester Habitat is creating lasting opportunities for families to establish stability, build equity, and pursue brighter futures. Learn more about Dorchester Habitat at www.dorchesterhabitat.org
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — 10/13/2026 — As it enters the final year of its current three-year strategic plan, the Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce is already looking ahead. Chamber leadership, board members, staff, and stakeholders recently convened for a comprehensive planning session to map out the organization's vision and priorities for the next three years. Facilitated by Claire Louder of Louder Nonprofit Strategies, the session was designed to align the Chamber’s future trajectory with the region's explosive growth and evolving community needs. To ensure alignment with the region, the day kicked off with vital insights. Attendees heard directly from representatives of the Town of Summerville, Dorchester County, and Berkeley County regarding their current municipal and county-wide plans, ensuring the Chamber’s roadmap complements ongoing local government initiatives. Discussions were also guided by the goals of Envision 2047, keeping key components at the forefront. The planning conversation heavily emphasized: Thoughtful planning and smart growth Housing accessibility and variety Vibrant gateways and distinctive places Quality economic growth Fostering a robust entrepreneurial culture Top-tier education “We were very intentional about incorporating ENVISION 2047 as a guiding tool for our planning as it strategically parallels with what the business community and our members value and feel is important to achieve long-term success," said Rita Berry, President and CEO of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce. In addition to regional collaboration and big-picture visioning, the session focused inward on member value. Leadership closely analyzed feedback and data from the Chamber’s most recent membership survey, brainstorming innovative ideas and actionable plans to enhance membership benefits and elevate programs for local businesses. More details regarding the official launch and specific pillars of the Summerville Chamber’s next strategic plan will be announced in the coming months. About the Greater Summerville Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce is a five-star accredited chamber dedicated to advancing economic prosperity through business advocacy, leadership development, workforce initiatives, and meaningful member engagement. Serving businesses of every size and industry, the Chamber works to create a stronger community throughout Summerville and Dorchester County. About Envision 2047 ENVISION 2047 is a long-term community vision and strategic action plan developed to guide the future of Summerville and Dorchester County over the next 20 years and beyond. Led by the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber Foundation, in partnership with Dorchester County and the Town of Summerville, along with a steering committee of business and community leaders, the initiative reflects a unified commitment to thoughtful, sustainable growth.
RIDGEVILLE, S.C. - Knight’s Companies is pleased to announce the rebranding and name change of Murray Mines to Knight’s Materials, effective immediately. The name change reflects the company’s continued growth in the construction materials industry and brings the operation under the Knight’s Companies brand. Knight’s Materials will continue to provide quality sand and other construction material products to customers throughout the region, with the same commitment to service, quality, and reliability that customers have come to expect. “We’re excited to officially bring Knight’s Materials into the Knight’s Companies family,” said Pete Knight, President and CEO of Knight’s Companies. “This is a natural next step as we continue to grow our materials business and expand the products and services we can provide to our customers and partners.” Customers can expect a seamless transition, with existing operations, relationships, and service continuing under the new Knight’s Materials name. Knight’s Materials is part of Knight’s Companies, a South Carolina-based construction materials and services company serving customers throughout the Southeast. Visit knightscompanies.com for more info on other products and services.
Investment in cardiothoracic and vascular surgery strengthens comprehensive cardiovascular care and expands access for Lowcountry patients
SUMMERVILLE, S.C. - Local custom residential builder Ragland Homes has been named a recipient of the 2026 "Builder of Integrity" Award by Quality Builders Warranty (QBW). This marks the second time the Summerville-based home builder has earned the prestigious national honor, reinforcing its reputation for technical excellence, financial stability, and steadfast commitment to client trust across the Lowcountry. The Builder of Integrity Award is an exclusive recognition presented to a selective group of residential builders nationwide. Award recipients undergo a rigorous screening and ongoing performance review process evaluating technical skill, ethical business practice, craftsmanship, and customer service. "Building a custom home is one of the most significant investments a family will make and earning the trust of our clients is at the center of everything we do," said Bryan Ragland. "Receiving the Builder of Integrity Award for a second time validates our team's daily commitment to transparent communication, superior craftsmanship, and doing things right". This national recognition follows a period of strong local support for Ragland Homes, which was also voted Best Home Builder by readers of the Summerville Journal Scene for three years in a row. To learn more about Ragland Homes visit Raglandhomes.com or contact the team at (843) 284.3133. For details regarding the Quality Builders Warranty Builder of Integrity program, visit www.qbwc.com/BOI About Ragland Homes Founded in 2018, Ragland Homes is a premier custom home builder, led by Certified Master Builder Bryan Ragland based in Summerville, South Carolina. Serving clients throughout the Lowcountry, Ragland Homes specializes in custom home construction, build-on-your-lot projects, and personalized design solutions built on a foundation of integrity, quality, and transparency. About Quality Builders Warranty Corporation Quality Builders Warranty Corporation (QBW) is the nation’s premier 10-year new home warranty program. Operating since 1985, QBW screens builders nationwide to ensure members demonstrate superior craftsmanship, technical excellence, and financial integrity, providing structural warranties backed by Liberty Mutual.
