Good Road

Charleston, South Carolina: Rising Tides

Precariously positioned between major waterways, rivers and the Atlantic Ocean, Charleston, South Carolina is susceptible to flooding from major storms and even the daily shifting of the tides. This reality complicates everything for businesses and the city's residents, especially those living in poor, historically black neighborhoods. Earl Bridges and Craig Martin have in-depth conversations with people addressing climate change and sustainability, such as Mayor John Tecklenburg. They also venture out on the rich oyster beds with Terrell Brown and his dad, owners of Brown's Oyster Supply. Terrell talks about sustainability and the impact that climate change has had on this generational industry of oyster harvesting. Later, Craig and Earl visit with Latonya Gamble at Eastside Community Development, where Latonya talks about the impact that flooding has had on this struggling community. A visit to Joe Watson and his family-owned Mary's Sweet Shop restores faith in the power of family and community in the face of intense societal and meteorological pressures. Joe shows Earl and Craig the sticky notes and registers of names of many of the poorest of the poor who receive basic needed food and milk for free with a promissory note to pay Joe back when they can.