Good morning, Mount Pleasant.

Mount Pleasant officials cut the ribbon yesterday on the long-awaited Park West Recreation pool — which now has a new HVAC system that fixes a 20-year air conditioning gap — as part of a voter-approved project from a 2022 referendum that lets families swim together.

A single-vehicle crash on Johns Island around 1 a.m. struck a power pole, knocking out power and closing Edenvale Road for hours—St. Johns Fire District said the critically injured driver was taken to a hospital—and Berkeley Electric Cooperative restored power by 7:40 a.m.

The Charleston County School District named Andrea Gadsden as the new principal of Simmons-Pinckney Middle School and she will start her role on July 1.

Gadsden brings over a decade of leadership at Jerry Zucker Middle School and nearly 20 years of experience in education.

At the May 19 board meeting, the School District Board of Trustees recognized achievements from students and staff—Buist Academy fourth grader Ansley Gratzmiller won a statewide children’s book challenge, high school lacrosse teams from Lucy Beckham and Wando won state titles, and scholarship recipients along with key occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and the district’s audiologist were honored. The awards highlighted the board’s support for educational excellence across the district.

One year after the Supreme Court dismissed claims of racial gerrymandering in SC's First District, local residents say the redrawn map silenced minority voices and shifted political power.

The ACLU and League of Women Voters filed a lawsuit in July and experts warn that the legal challenge may affect the 2026 elections—fair representation remains at risk.

National Boat Safety Week ran May 17 to 23 and reminded boaters to follow safety rules while state DNR inspectors will offer free boat inspections at public boat launches during Memorial Day weekend—guidance meant to help avoid common mistakes and reduce risks—as the holiday approaches.

Starting next month, the South Carolina Department of Transportation will inspect Ravenel Bridge from June 2 through June 13 and again from July 8 through July 18 at 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Officials expect the work to have only a minor impact on traffic—as crews inspect the bridge's towers and cables.

Isle of Palms Police Department reminded beachgoers to follow safety rules for Memorial Day Weekend including no alcohol, glass, smoking, and leashed dogs — additional officers will manage traffic and crowds as residents are urged to use designated parking and allow extra travel time. This advisory ensures everyone can enjoy the beaches safely during the holiday.

After a previous year's cancellation due to drought, the Steeplechase of Charleston will return November 9 at Stono Ferry Racetrack with improved safety measures — including updated turf management and real-time track monitoring — to protect both horses and jockeys.

Tickets are on sale now with a 25% early bird discount available until June 3.

Shark Teeth & Fossils Exploration

4 hours — Folly River Boat Ramp — Pricing varies — Discover shark teeth and fossils on a scenic boat tour of Charleston's dredge islands.

Camp Invention: Discover at James B. Edwards Elementary

9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. — James B Edwards Elementary — $215 — An exciting STEM summer program fostering confidence and problem-solving skills for young innovators.

Hands-on Potato Gnocchi Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Two Blokes Brewing — Cost included — Learn to make light Italian potato gnocchi from scratch, topped with gourmet sauces and served with a full meal.

On-Site Medical Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — The Palms of Mt. Pleasant — Free entry — Discover the personalized care and exceptional services offered at this senior living community.