GOOD NEWS: Charleston caregiver honored with big award

When Charleston resident Demonica Frazier reported to work September 28 at the Ashley Park retirement community in West Ashley, she got a big surprise. She was awarded BrightStar Care’s Caregiver of the Year for the care she provides to 90-year-old couple, Barb and Joe Miller.

Frazier, third from left, is flanked by clients Barb Miller and Joe Miller. Daughter Deborah Miller is at the far left. Photo provided.

Each year, thousands of families around the country have the opportunity to nominate their caregiver for the Caregiver of the Year award by providing a heartfelt testimonial about the outstanding and devoted services delivered to their loved one. According to a press release, Deborah Miller, wrote “Demonica always has a smile on her face when greeting clients and has a playful spirit, all while being mature beyond her years. She has lifted the spirits of my parents many days during some very challenging times and I rest easier each night knowing that she is there.”

Working with the nominating family, Demonica’s employer, franchisee BrightStar Care of Charleston, arranged for a surprise “reveal event” at Ashley Park, complete with a trophy, sash, cake and a heartwarming speech from colleagues and family members. Nationally, BrightStar care offers home care and medical staffing at more than 250 locations in 36 states.

Also in good news:

Bar-B-Qued Bluegrass Series. Home Team BBQ’s West Ashley location, 1205 Ashley River Road, will host this fall bluegrass series with three free concerts that will start at 9 p.m. On tap Oct. 13 is a bluegrass quartet from Johnson City, Tenn., the Honey Chasers. Also ahead: Clyde’s on Fire from Asheville, N.C., on Oct. 20; and Charleston’s Bluestone Ramblers on Oct. 27. More.

Buses now have WiFi. Free WiFi Internet service now is offered on CARTA’s main line and Express buses, according to an Oct. 1 announcement. Express Routes 1 through 4 will have unlimited WiFi, while up to 12 users can connect through hotspots on local routes (also known as MiFi).

The service, announced as a partnership with Verizon Wireless, gives bus riders an technological advantage over those driving their own vehicles, said Charleston City Council member Mike Seekings, CARTA’s chair. “It’s a first for our system. It’s a first for our region. And we envision this service as being the sort of tool that will delight our current customers and also get people on the bus for the first time. That change, in turn, decreases traffic and reduces wear on infrastructure, which benefits everyone.”