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NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — Two South Carolinians who documented and participated in the civil rights movement alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be honored this weekend as living legends.

Cecil J. Williams, who photographed Dr. King and the March on Washington for Jet Magazine, as well as John Reynolds, who marched with Dr. King in Selma, will receive awards at a concert Saturday titled “We’re Still Fighting.”

Williams founded the Cecil J. Williams South Carolina Civil Rights Museum and captured pivotal moments of the movement through his camera lens.

“I believe that it was a destiny that someone needed to capture these great things and these great moments in time that were happening here in South Carolina,” Williams said. “A lot of times, South Carolina has been left out of the history that is told about the civil rights movement.”

Museum expanding to new location

Williams’ museum started in his home and is expanding to a new space in Orangeburg this year. He said the museum serves as a place for people to understand the sacrifices made during the civil rights era.

“We are the storytellers,” Williams said. “I think it’s important because it’s a part of our cultural development to bring about again a place where people can go and see what sacrifices were made for the privileges and the things that they can enjoy today.”

Reynolds, an Alabama native who grew up on a plantation, worked with Dr. King at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference before making Kiawah Island home. He documented his experiences in his memoir, “The Fight for Freedom: A Memoir of My Years in the Civil Rights Movement.”

“It’s about giving,” Reynolds said. “It’s nice to receive, but it’s more about giving. And I think when I look at myself, I think that’s what I pride myself on that I was willing to give and put my life on the line.

Reynolds is grateful for the honor of the living tribute award. While he was not able to fully understand the power of those historical moments in the past, it’s special to him they are continuing to build a legacy now.

Concert emphasizes ongoing struggle

Lowcountry Voices will host the concert honoring both men. Sandra Barnhart, the director’s assistant of Lowcountry Voices, said the event’s message is particularly relevant today.

“We need to honor and give our appreciation to people who are out there fighting for us,” Barnhart said. “In this climate that we’re in right now where things that we’ve held on to for so long are trying to be taken away, obviously the fight isn’t over.”

The choir chooses music to represent not only Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, but music that represents the power of the Civil Rights era.

The concert will take place Saturday at 5 p.m. at St. Matthews Baptist Church, located at 2005 Reynolds Avenue. Choir leaders encourage residents to arrive at 4 p.m. for a seat.

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Joao Paulo Fernandes claimed his fourth event victory and first of the season on the Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour after going three-for-three to win GOVX PBR North Charleston by a qualified ride.

Fernandes picked up his first ride of the event Friday night aboard Erner Permer, scoring 85.35 points to sit in third after round one. He once again finished with the third-best score in Round two with 85.15 points on Pinecone to advance to the Championship Round. Once there, he rode Evil Eyes for 64.30 points and elected not to take the re-ride, a gamble that paid off when no other rider was able to register a third score.

Manoelito de Souza Junior finished runner-up in North Charleston with 174.80 points after riding Delta Line for 86.05 points Friday night and Whiskey Business for 88.75 points on Saturday. He was unable to convert against American Made in the Championship Round, leading to the silver finish.

Souza’s finish elevated him to second in the PWVT standings with 338.00 points, just a half-point shy of sitting tied for first. Kase Hitt remains the tour leader with 338.50 points.

Ezekiel Mitchell finished in the Top 3 for the second week in a row with an aggregate score of 173.10 points over three rounds. After bucking off Friday night, Mitchell scored 86.75 points on Red Bull to qualify for the Championship Round. He rode Fringe Minority for 80.35 points but took a re-ride option on Gunsmoke to increase his score to 86.35 points.

Miguel de Jesus finished fourth with 172.20 points, riding Martini Houdini during the second round for 84.90 points followed with an 87.30-point ride aboard Spectacular.

Rounding out the Top 5 was Zane Cook with 171.15 points. Cook bested Big Lunch on Friday for 88.35 points before bucking off Rodeo Vegas in Round 2. In the Championship Round, he rode Good for 82.80 points.

PBR’s Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour brings fans three events across the country over the next week with Denver PBR Chute Out at the National Western Stock Show Jan. 12-13. On the weekend, PBR will once again be on two coasts with Kubota PBR Charleston and PBR Ontario taking place on Jan. 16-17.

Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour replays are available on RidePass and on the PBR app.

Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour – GOVX PBR North Charleston

North Charleston Coliseum – North Charleston, South Carolina

Event Leaders (Round 1-Round 2-Round 3-Event Aggregate-Event Points)

1. João Paulo Fernandes, 85.35-85.15-64.3-234.80-120 Points.

2. Manoelito de Souza Junior, 86.05-88.75-0-174.80-96 Points.

3. Ezekiel Mitchell, 0-86.75-86.35-173.10-72 Points.

4. Miguel de Jesus, 0-84.9-87.3-172.20-64 Points.

5. Zane Cook, 88.35-0-82.8-171.15-60 Points.

6. Brody Robinson, 0-84.7-85.35-170.05-43 Points.

7. Braidy Randolph, 0-82.45-85.05-167.50-35 Points.

8. Grayson Cole, 0-85-0-85.00-21 Points.

9. Douglas Franco, 82.45-0-0-82.45-20 Points.

10. Carlos Garcia, 0-82.25-0-82.25-14 Points.

11. Vinicius Rodrigues Pereira, 0-80.85-0-80.85-12 Points.

12. Daniel Burke, 80.6-0-0-80.60-7 Points.

Elijah Jennings, 0-0-0-0.00

Ayslan Jeferson, 0-0-0-0.00

Dione de Souza Ribeiro, 0-0-0-0.00

Dustin Herman, 0-0-0-0.00

Romario Leite, 0-0-0-0.00

Michael Lane, 0-0-0-0.00

Brandon Chambers, 0-0-0-0.00

Gavin Creviston, 0-0-0-0.00

Chase Hamlin, 0-0-0-0.00

Tanner Dale, 0-0-0-0.00

Justice Forsythe, 0-0-0-0.00

Dylan Smith, 0-0-0-0.00

Luiz Americo P. Silva, 0-0-0-0.00

Cole Trivette, 0-0-0-0.00

Marco Eguchi, 0-0-0-0.00

Bennie Shetler, 0-0-0-0.00

Gabriel Thiago Da Silva, 0-0-0-0.00

Alex Jenks, 0-0-0-0.00

Alison dos Santos, 0-0-0-0.00

Nick Garramone, 0-0-0-0.00

Jonathan Souza, 0-0-0-0.00

Gabriel Honorato, 0-0-0-0.00

Edenilso Aparecido Moura, 0-0-0-0.00

Jose Natanael Marcodes da Silva, 0-0-0-0.00

Lane Edwards, 0-0-0-0.00

Huyan Matos, 0-0-0-0.00

Mat Tolson, 0-0-0-0.00

Levi Banks, 0-0-0-0.00

PENDLETON WHISKY VELOCITY TOUR STANDINGS

1. Kase Hitt, 6, 2, 3, 338.50, $20,973.64

2. Manoelito de Souza Junior, 15, 0, 6, 338.00, $16,442.63

3. Nick Tetz, 5, 2, 4, 328.00, $16,765.80

4. Jared Parsonage, 3, 2, 2, 323.00, $116,566.29

5. Wyatt Rogers, 11, 1, 3, 238.50, $17,157.95

6. Romario Leite, 8, 1, 3, 226.00, $12,194.21

7. Afonso Quintino, 3, 1, 2, 220.00, $10,638.73

8. Daniel Keeping, 2, 1, 1, 214.00, $40,474.63

9. Grayson Cole, 8, 0, 2, 206.00, $9,948.75

10. Vinicius Rodrigues Pereira, 4, 1, 3, 202.00, $11,246.10

11. Ezekiel Mitchell, 4, 0, 3, 191.00, $9,040.00

12. Trace Redd, 5, 1, 1, 189.00, $12,350.41

13. Dakota Buttar, 6, 0, 2, 188.00, $18,304.51

13. Macaulie Leather, 4, 0, 3, 188.00, $19,861.03

15. Lane Vaughan, 2, 1, 2, 184.50, $8,066.67

16. Kurt Shephard, 3, 1, 2, 182.50, $73,649.48

17. Jordan Hansen, 2, 0, 2, 178.50, $18,610.04

18. Jaxton Mortensen, 6, 1, 1, 169.00, $8,500.00

19. Mason Taylor, 6, 1, 2, 160.00, $7,534.38

20. Rogario Venancio, 1, 1, 1, 159.50, $7,476.30

21. Warley Oliveira da Silva, 2, 0, 1, 153.00, $3,519.17

22. Joao Paulo Fernandes, 3, 1, 1, 148.00, $6,540.00

23. Kade Madsen, 4, 1, 1, 147.00, $6,466.67

24. Cleber Henrique Marques, 5, 1, 2, 133.00, $5,568.30

25. Thiago Salgado, 1, 1, 1, 132.00, $114,529.92

26. Miguel de Jesus, 4, 0, 2, 131.00, $3,800.00

27. Dione de Souza Ribeiro, 13, 0, 4, 125.50, $6,057.19

28. Jean Carlos Teodoro, 7, 2, 3, 121.50, $7,520.81

29. Jake Gardner, 5, 0, 2, 116.00, $34,851.96

30. Brody Robinson, 12, 0, 2, 115.00, $4,960.56

31. Luan Crystian Camara, 2, 0, 1, 112.50, $26,248.69

32. Adilson Junior, 4, 1, 2, 111.00, $8,811.95

33. Charlie Bailey, 5, 0, 1, 109.50, $3,943.60

34. Lucas Divino, 5, 0, 1, 109.00, $4,962.17

35. Alex Cerqueira, 7, 1, 3, 105.50, $5,730.38

36. Gabriel Morais, 2, 0, 1, 103.00, $2,399.86

37. Cauy Schmidt, 4, 0, 1, 102.00, $3,247.87

38. Francisco Costa, 1, 0, 1, 101.50, $19,449.54

39. Everton dos Santos, 2, 0, 2, 98.00, $1,441.99

40. Zane Cook, 6, 0, 1, 95.00, $2,960.00

40. Elijah Jennings, 5, 0, 1, 95.00, $4,766.67

42. Chanse Switzer, 4, 0, 1, 94.50, $3,239.57

43. Zack Morrison, 6, 0, 1, 93.00, $10,085.11

44. Cash Keeling, 1, 0, 1, 91.00, $5,250.00

45. Dustin Herman, 5, 0, 1, 90.00, $4,677.70

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Why should homeowners prioritize yearly service for a system that may appear to be working fine?

The feature begins by stressing that fireplaces are not simply decorative but active mechanical systems. Each use places stress on the firebox, chimney, flue, and ventilation. Without regular oversight, the system cannot be relied on to remain structurally sound. According to the HelloNation article, sticking to an annual fireplace inspection provides families with confidence that their heating source is dependable and secure.

A key part of the fireplace maintenance checklist is chimney condition assessment. Creosote from wood-burning fires is highly flammable and adheres to chimney walls over time. Left unaddressed, this buildup can ignite unexpectedly and spark a chimney fire that spreads into the home. By pairing annual inspection with chimney sweeping, homeowners eliminate this risk while also keeping airflow clear for safe operation.

The article also highlights gas fireplace safety. Although gas models generate less residue than wood-burning systems, they are not free from maintenance needs. Internal parts such as the ignition system, pilot assembly, and thermocouple require review to ensure reliability. Ventilation pathways may also corrode or become obstructed by debris and animals. Without inspection, these problems could lead to carbon monoxide fireplace risks. By scheduling a gas fireplace inspection, homeowners safeguard against invisible dangers while confirming that the appliance is venting exhaust properly.

Another point in the article is the importance of exterior chimney condition assessment. Weather, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles gradually weaken masonry, mortar joints, and flashing. When chimney caps are damaged or missing, water intrusion accelerates corrosion and undermines liners. The HelloNation feature explains that chimney cap maintenance and early detection of exterior wear prevent small problems from turning into expensive structural damage.

Safety checks are not limited to the chimney and firebox. The fireplace maintenance checklist also includes smoke detectors, carbon monoxide monitors, spark screens, and glass doors. Each of these accessories supports safe operation by reducing fire spread or alerting families to toxic gases. The article stresses that maintaining clear space around the hearth and reviewing safety rules with children are practical steps that belong to an annual routine.

The HelloNation article emphasizes that many problems are not visible to homeowners. A cracked flue liner, corroded vent, or shifting masonry may not show obvious signs until they become severe. An annual fireplace inspection allows a trained professional to identify these concerns early, when repairs are easier and less costly. This proactive approach ensures that unseen risks do not compromise fireplace safety during peak winter use.

Even when a fireplace appears to operate normally, gradual changes can still occur. Draft patterns may shift, seals may loosen, and masonry can weaken without obvious warning. By scheduling inspection and cleaning once a year, families prevent sudden failures that could occur under heavy demand. The article describes this as a practical safeguard that keeps heating systems reliable across multiple seasons.

The benefits of consistent upkeep also extend to efficiency and cost savings. Properly maintained fireplaces use fuel more effectively, reducing wasted energy while delivering warmth as intended. Regular service reduces the likelihood of major repairs, lowering long-term expenses for homeowners. In this way, annual fireplace inspection combines safety assurance with practical financial benefits.

Ultimately, the HelloNation article underscores that annual fireplace maintenance is more than a precaution. It is a structured process that improves gas fireplace safety, reduces carbon monoxide fireplace risks, preserves chimney integrity, and strengthens overall home heating system upkeep. By following a complete fireplace maintenance checklist each year, homeowners protect both their property and their families.

The feature, Annual Fireplace Maintenance & Why It Matters, includes insights from Jimmy Smith, Fireplace Expert in North Charleston, South Carolina, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — Early voting began Monday for the North Charleston City Council District 1 seat, left vacant after former councilman Mike A. Brown resigned amid corruption charges.

Six candidates are running for the position: Edward Astle, Adrian DeSaussure, Greg Perry, Dwayne Schalles, Libby Tisdale and Kevin Walker-Porcher.

The District 1 seat has been vacant since Brown resigned on Oct. 16. Brown pleaded guilty to one count of to commit bribery with respect to programs receiving federal funds and honest services wire fraud.

District 1 resident Jared Brown said the corruption case has made voters more cautious about their choice.

“I’d like somebody that’s local and cares about the community and has good integrity,” Brown said. “You don’t have to monitor them because you don’t really want to think about these things all the time. You want to trust that the people in power are taking care of you and putting your best interest first as a community.”

Joshua Dickard, deputy director of election operations for Charleston County Board of Elections, said the special election has drawn more candidates than typical.

“We do have six candidates for this election, which is a little bit more than we typically have for your typical special election,” Dickard said. “I think that’s just partly due to the notoriety of North Charleston. It is a large municipality in South Carolina. It is a heavily contested area.”

Early voting runs through Jan. 9 on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. No voting will occur on New Year’s Day.

Election day is Jan. 13, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Eligible Charleston County residents may vote early at 4340 Corporate Road.

Dickard said only a few people voted Monday, but expects turnout to increase closer to election day.

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — With the holidays wrapping up, Lowcountry doctors say they are expecting a spike in heart failure caused by stress as the year comes to an end.

The last week of December has the highest number of heart disease-related deaths, according to the American Heart Association.

The condition, called “holiday heart syndrome,” can be triggered by stress and overindulgence during the holiday season. New Year’s Day has the third most cardiac deaths in the country, only behind Christmas and the day after Christmas.

What is holiday heart syndrome?

Holiday heart syndrome causes heart palpitations, shortness of breath and chest pressure. The syndrome can last for 24 to 48 hours.

Dr. Iva Smolens, a cardiothoracic surgeon at MUSC, says the heart can jump well beyond the normal number of beats per minute during an episode.

“You could be sitting still and you feel like you’re running a marathon because all of a sudden your heart rate jumps up to about 160 or 180 beats per minute, which is almost twice what normal is,” Smolens says.

The syndrome can have lasting effects beyond the initial episode.

“Holiday heart syndrome by definition is self-limited to 24 or 48 hours, but it can put somebody into more permanent atrial fibrillation and that does have some long-term effects for some people. They might have the sensation of a rapid heart rate or an irregular heart rate, but atrial fibrillation… can actually lead to strokes. People can get clots inside their heart,” Smolens says.

Holiday triggers and prevention

Doctors say many feel extra stress from spending, planning family events and overindulging in food and alcohol. While some attacks are hereditary, many can have abnormal heart rhythms triggered by holiday stress or losing their medication routine.

Chelsey Knight, a nurse practitioner at HCA Healthcare Trident Hospital, says dietary choices during the holidays can worsen heart conditions.

“People end up in congestive heart failure because they’re eating foods that are higher in sodium, eating bigger portions, eating more sweets and it ends up putting them into heart failure where they retain fluid and then they end up having to go in the hospital,” Knight says.

Knight says emotions can heighten stress during the holidays.

“A lot of times the holidays are very emotional for people, for loved ones that have passed away or just, you know, major life events that have happened over the years and you know, maybe you’re alone for the holidays. There’s a lot of cardiac events that happen and I think it’s mainly related to the stress from everything that’s happening all at once,” Knight says.

Health experts warn that it’s important for people to watch what they eat. Doctors recommend five to 10 minutes of breathing exercises and taking time for hydration and self-care to strengthen hearts during stressful periods.

Doctors at both hospitals say to be responsible with alcohol consumption. Binge-drinking in a short time period can cause dehydration. If this occurs, people should drink electrolytes to rehydrate as an extra precaution.

When to seek help

Officials at both Trident Hospital and MUSC say many people avoid the hospital during the holidays, even when they need it most.

Doctors say those who experience symptoms including chest pain, extreme fatigue or a racing heart, don’t wait until after the holidays. Call 911.

After the holidays, doctors recommend scheduling a heart check-up.