A local philanthropist was awarded the state’s highest civilian honor. During a recent visit to the Grand Strand, Governor Henry McMaster recognized Fred Nesta with the Order of the Palmetto. According to the state’s website the Order of the Palmetto is awarded to citizens of South Carolina for extraordinary lifetime service and achievements of national or statewide significance.

Governor McMaster says Nesta received the award for his help in numerous social service projects over the years. Nesta is considered a bulldog of causes, rarely slowing down or stopping for himself. In fact, his wife takes his phone away every night at eight o’clock… but he’s up and ready to get back to work as soon as the clock strikes 6:00 A.M.