Month: March 2025

By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, is renowned for its historic charm and Southern hospitality, but its urban entertainment scene is equally vibrant, offering a diverse mix of nightlife, arts, and cultural experiences. From lively bars and clubs to underground venues and creative hubs, Charleston delivers something for everyone seeking excitement after dark.

Nightlife Hotspots

Charleston’s nightlife has evolved into a dynamic mix of trendy clubs, live music venues, and cozy bars:

• Trio Nightclub: Known as the city’s electronic music hub, Trio hosts renowned DJs and offers a Miami-style atmosphere with cutting-edge sound and lighting systems.

• Republic Garden & Lounge: Featured on Bravo’s Southern Hospitality, Republic combines an upscale vibe with local DJ performances and outdoor spaces perfect for socializing.

• The Commodore: A vintage jazz club with live music six nights a week. Caribbean Tiki Tuesdays are a standout for reggae lovers.

For those seeking dive bars or unique atmospheres:

• Burns Alley: Hidden near King Street, this college bar boasts cheap drinks and a relaxed vibe.

• Faculty Lounge: A quirky spot where bikers, students, and locals mingle over drinks and dancing.

Live Music Venues

Charleston’s live music scene thrives in intimate settings:

• The Royal American: Famous for hosting local bands on its small stage and serving hearty food like loaded baked potatoes.

• Music Farm: A larger venue that attracts national acts while supporting local talent.

• Purple Buffalo: A creative haven for artists with excellent sound quality and inclusive vibes.

Outdoor concerts at Firefly Distillery combine live performances with food trucks and craft cocktails under the stars.

Arts and Culture

Charleston’s arts scene enriches its urban entertainment offerings. Though Gibbes Museum of Art and The International African American Museum are daytime exhibits/venues, they extend the awareness and celebratory nature of Charleston and the Lowcountry’s rich culture and heritage.

• Dock Street Theatre: America’s first theater hosts professional plays and musicals year-round.

• Gibbes Museum of Art: Home to over 10,000 works celebrating Charleston’s cultural heritage through visual art.

• International African American Museum: An essential stop to explore African American history and its impact on Charleston.

For those who enjoy improv comedy, Theatre 99 provides hilarious performances rooted in local culture every week.

Hidden Gems

Charleston’s underground entertainment scene offers unique experiences:

• Chico Feo: A Folly Beach haven where live bands perform in a laid-back beach-house setting.

• Elliotborough Mini Bar: A cozy neighborhood spot hosting events like poetry readings and vegan tastings.

• Revelry Brewing: Beyond its craft beer reputation, Revelry organizes pop-up events like ramen nights and fundraisers.

Historic Nostalgia

Charleston’s entertainment history adds depth to its modern scene. Venues like Cumberland’s once hosted legendary blues acts, while The Map Room brought rock and jazz to West Ashley before closing in 2008. These memories remind locals to cherish the city’s evolving landscape.

Conclusion – Get your Charleston nightlife on

Charleston’s urban entertainment scene seamlessly blends history with modernity. Whether you’re dancing at Trio Nightclub, enjoying live music at The Royal American, or exploring art at Gibbes Museum, the city offers endless opportunities for fun. Its welcoming atmosphere ensures that locals and visitors alike can find their niche in this vibrant Southern gem.

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, SC, boasts a thriving community theater scene that provides actors from diverse backgrounds with opportunities to express themselves and connect with audiences. 

Anchored by companies like PURE Theatre and the Footlight Players at Queen Street Playhouse, Charleston’s theater landscape has evolved into a dynamic hub for creativity, inclusivity, and artistic excellence.

PURE Theatre: Risk-Taking and Provocative Storytelling

Founded in 2003 by Rodney Lee Rogers and Sharon Graci, PURE Theatre is celebrated for its bold approach to contemporary theater. Located in the Cannon Street Arts Center, this intimate venue fosters a close connection between performers and audiences. PURE specializes in world and regional premieres that explore complex human psychology and behavior. 

The Core Ensemble, comprising 20 professional actors, drives the company’s mission to deliver thought-provoking stories that ignite conversation.

PURE Theatre’s commitment to artistic risk-taking has earned it a loyal following. Its audience embraces challenging material, often returning for more even after grappling with difficult themes. The company ensures diversity in casting and programming, addressing the universal challenges of being human while maintaining a sophisticated standard of excellence.

Queen Street Playhouse and the Footlight Players

The Queen Street Playhouse, located at 20 Queen Street in Charleston’s historic district, is home to the Footlight Players, Charleston’s oldest community theater company. Established in 1931, the Footlight Players have been a cornerstone of 

Charleston’s theatrical scene for over 90 years. The Queen Street Playhouse itself was originally a cotton warehouse built in the mid-19th century and was transformed into a theater in the late 1930s. Today, it offers a charming setting with rustic charm and warm acoustics, making it an ideal venue for a variety of performances. The Footlight Players continue to thrive, producing six regular seasonal shows annually and providing opportunities for volunteers and budding actors to develop their skills through the Footlight Dramatic Academy. 

The company is renowned for its commitment to quality community theater that reflects the city’s cultural heritage and mores.

Other Local Theater Companies

Charleston’s vibrant theater community extends beyond PURE Theatre and Queen Street Playhouse. The Charleston Stage Company at Dock Street Theatre is South Carolina’s largest professional theater company, producing full-scale plays and musicals with dazzling visuals. Meanwhile, Theatre 99 offers improv comedy shows that rely on audience participation, fostering spontaneity and humor.

Additionally, venues like Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre provide interactive experiences where audience members can join performances. These companies collectively contribute to Charleston’s reputation as an arts destination while offering actors from all walks of life an outlet for creative expression.

A Platform for Expression Across All Walks of Life

Community theater in Charleston is more than entertainment—it’s a platform for self-expression. Actors from various backgrounds find opportunities to share their voices and stories through these companies. Whether seasoned professionals or emerging talents, performers contribute to productions that reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

These theaters also serve as gathering spaces where audiences engage with thought-provoking narratives. 

From PURE Theatre’s psychological explorations to the Footlight Players’ dedication to community-driven productions, Charleston’s community theaters foster dialogue and understanding through storytelling.

Exemplification of Art and Storytelling

Charleston’s community theater scene exemplifies how art can unite people from all walks of life. Companies like PURE Theatre and Queen Street Playhouse lead the charge in creating spaces for actors to express themselves while challenging audiences with bold narratives. As Charleston continues to grow as an arts hub, its theaters remain vital outlets for creativity, connection, and cultural enrichment.

When you attend your next live production in Charleston, South Carolina, remember that these actors that are dedicating hundreds of hours in rehearsal, preparation and studying are doctors, realtors, singer/songwriters, hospitality workers, mothers, fathers, civil servants and other members of your community that are exercising their talents to bring joy to us.

When you put that in perspective, it makes Charleston theater even more important to our landscape, because we are connecting at a deeper level with one another, one production at a time.

By Mark A Leon

Johns Island, South Carolina, has long been a serene retreat, known for its ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss and its rural charm. However, in recent years, this quiet island has blossomed into a thriving culinary destination. Its food scene now reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, offering everything from upscale dining to cozy cafes. As the population grows and the community diversifies, so does the island’s cultural and culinary identity.

A Foundation of Culinary Excellence

The culinary transformation of Johns Island began with establishments like Wild Olive, which opened on Maybank Highway and quickly became a local favorite. Known for its house-made pasta and commitment to sustainability, Wild Olive set a high standard for farm-to-table dining. Similarly, Hege’s Restaurant in Freshfields Village brought French bistro classics like steak frites and crab cakes to the island, offering an upscale yet approachable dining experience.

These early pioneers laid the groundwork for the vibrant food culture that now defines Johns Island. Their success inspired others to bring their culinary visions to life, creating a diverse array of dining options that cater to both locals and visitors.

The Rise of Community-Centered Dining

Johns Island’s food scene is as much about community as it is about cuisine. Restaurants like The Royal Tern, opened by brothers John and Ben Williams in 2019, embody this ethos. Located on Maybank Highway, The Royal Tern offers globally inspired seafood dishes such as blackened swordfish and whole grilled fish. The restaurant was designed to be a welcoming space where locals could feel at home—a goal it has achieved with resounding success.

Another standout is The HeyDay, which opened in Hayes Park in 2024 under the leadership of “Top Chef” alum Emily Hahn. The HeyDay emphasizes fresh seafood and locally sourced produce, offering dishes that celebrate the Lowcountry’s natural abundance. Its inventive cocktails and barista bar have made it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

There are the traditionalist spots that have built the roots of community and retain the authenticity of Johns Island: Blackbird Market and Stono Market & The Tomato Shed offering traditional Southern homestyle charm and some of the best tomato pie you’ll ever find.

Casual Comfort: KISS Cafe

For those seeking a more relaxed dining experience, KISS Cafe has become a beloved spot on Johns Island. Known for its chef-inspired breakfast and lunch dishes, KISS Cafe serves hearty meals like homemade corned beef hash and specialty ramen bowls. The cafe’s emphasis on fresh ingredients and local sourcing reflects its commitment to supporting the community.

KISS Cafe isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot where locals connect over good food and conversation. Its cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff make it a cornerstone of Johns Island’s casual dining scene.

For the morning lovers, let us not forget Bagels by KISS right next door.

Gold Star Coffee: A Story of Resilience

One of the most unique additions to Johns Island’s culinary landscape is Gold Star Coffee, located on Maybank Highway. Opened by Rachel Horne in honor of her late husband Terrell, a Coast Guard veteran who lost his life during a drug interdiction mission, Gold Star Coffee is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a tribute to resilience and community.

The shop offers exceptional coffee alongside freshly baked pastries, all served in a warm, inviting atmosphere. With its thoughtful decor and friendly staff, Gold Star Coffee has quickly become a favorite among locals seeking a quiet respite or a place to work. Beyond its excellent coffee, the shop serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military families and the strength they embody.

High Steaks Butcher Shop: Elevating Local Ingredients

Another notable addition is High Steaks Butcher Shop, which has redefined how locals approach cooking at home. Offering high-quality cuts of meat alongside expert advice on preparation techniques, High Steaks caters to both seasoned chefs and home cooks looking to elevate their meals. Its dedication to quality aligns perfectly with Johns Island’s broader emphasis on farm-to-table dining.

Somm Wine Bar: A Sophisticated Escape

For wine lovers, Somm Wine Bar provides an elegant yet unpretentious space to explore curated selections from around the world. The bar pairs its wines with small plates that highlight seasonal ingredients, creating an experience that feels both indulgent and approachable. Somm Wine Bar has become a go-to destination for date nights and gatherings with friends.

Cultural Growth Through Food

The evolution of Johns Island’s food scene mirrors its cultural growth. Restaurants have become more than just places to eat—they are spaces where people gather to celebrate milestones, forge connections, and share stories. The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients reflects a deep respect for the land and its resources, while the diversity of offerings showcases the island’s openness to new ideas.

This cultural dialogue extends beyond the plate. 

Establishments like Gold Star Coffee remind patrons of the importance of community support and resilience, while restaurants like The Royal Tern emphasize inclusivity through their welcoming atmospheres.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Johns Island continues to grow, its culinary landscape shows no signs of slowing down. New restaurants are likely to build on the foundation laid by pioneers like Wild Olive and Hege’s while embracing modern trends such as sustainability and global fusion cuisine. The island’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative preparation ensures that it will remain a destination for food lovers from across Charleston and beyond.

From upscale dining at The Royal Tern to comforting meals at KISS Cafe and heartfelt stories at Gold Star Coffee, Johns Island offers something for everyone. Its culinary evolution is not just about food—it’s about community, culture, and connection. In every bite and every sip lies a story of resilience, creativity, and celebration.

Johns Island may have started as Charleston’s quiet neighbor, but today it stands as one of South Carolina’s most vibrant culinary destinations—an island where tradition meets innovation in every dish served.

Related: High Steaks Butcher Shop – This latest Johns Island small business “meats” all your needs

Related: Meet Rachel Carpenter Horne, Owner of Gold Star Coffee on Johns Island – Where passion, coffee and community gather

Related: Welcome to The HeyDay: Johns Island’s Farm-to-Table Restaurant and Market Experience

Related: Grand Opening: Lost Isle, a new fire-to-table eatery on Johns Island from the team behind Lowlife Bar

By Mark A Leon

Shoeless Joe Jackson remains one of South Carolina’s most iconic sports figures, celebrated for his extraordinary talent and remembered for his humble beginnings in the state’s textile mills. 

Born on July 16, 1887, in Pickens County, South Carolina, Jackson grew up in poverty as the eldest of eight children. His family moved frequently within the state, eventually settling in the Brandon Mill village near Greenville, where young Joe began working in the mill at just six years old.

Early Life and Mills League Beginnings

Life in the textile mills was grueling. Workers endured long hours, harsh conditions, and little pay. For Jackson, this meant sacrificing formal education to help support his family. Despite these challenges, mill life introduced him to baseball—a sport that would change his life forever. 

At age 13, Jackson joined the Brandon Mill’s baseball team, earning $2.50 per game (equivalent to about $94 today). Initially a pitcher, he transitioned to the outfield after accidentally injuring a teammate with a fastball.

Jackson’s natural talent quickly became evident. His powerful hitting and strong arm earned him recognition throughout South Carolina’s competitive Mills League, where mill-sponsored teams played against one another. These games were more than recreation—they were a source of pride for mill communities and a proving ground for aspiring athletes. 

By his late teens, Jackson had become a local celebrity, drawing crowds eager to see his “Saturday Specials,” as home runs were known in the league.

The Nickname

 “Shoeless Joe” Jackson’s famous nickname originated during a Mills League game when new cleats caused painful blisters on his feet. He chose to play barefoot instead, prompting a fan to shout “Shoeless Joe!” The moniker stuck and followed him throughout his career.

Rise to Professional Baseball

Jackson’s dominance in the Mills League caught the attention of professional scouts. 

By 1908, he signed with the Philadelphia Athletics and began his journey through Major League Baseball (MLB). However, even as his career soared—culminating in a .356 lifetime batting average, one of the highest in MLB history—he never forgot his roots in South Carolina.

Legacy in South Carolina

Despite being banned from baseball due to the infamous 1919 Black Sox Scandal, Jackson returned to Greenville and remained deeply connected to his community. He opened businesses, including a barbeque restaurant and liquor store near Brandon Mill. His contributions to Greenville extended beyond commerce; he became a symbol of resilience and talent emerging from humble beginnings.

Today, Shoeless Joe Jackson’s legacy is preserved through landmarks such as the Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park and Museum in Greenville. The museum is housed in his restored childhood home and serves as a testament to both his baseball prowess and his South Carolina heritage.

Photo Credit: Shoeless Joe Jackson Virtual Hall of Fame

Introducing new health food restaurant Harvest, and refreshed shops including LoveShackFancy, Café Eugenia and more

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. (March 28, 2025) –  Freshfields Village, the premier open-air shopping and dining destination just 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, is welcoming two new retailers this spring and unveiling three refreshed and expanded spaces for beloved shops and eateries. These additions continue to elevate The Village’s diverse mix of shopping, dining and wellness offerings for both the local community and Lowcountry visitors.

“We are proud to see Freshfields Village continue to grow as a dynamic destination, where new concepts and refreshed spaces reflect the evolving needs of our community,” says Catherine Bickford, director of leasing at EDENS. “These additions are a testament to the momentum and vitality of The Village, as we remain dedicated to offering a thoughtfully curated mix of retail, dining and wellness experiences that enrich the lives of both locals and visitors.”

More on the new openings, refreshes, and expansions below:

• Harvest, a new concept from Java Java founder, Jaki DiGeronimo, is celebrating its grand opening at Freshfields Village on March 29, 2025. The restaurant will offer a health-forward menu featuring grain bowls, salads, smoothies and cold-pressed juices, with a focus on nourishing, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Harvest will be open Monday through Sunday from 8am to 4pm. 
• StretchLab will officially join Freshfields Village later this spring, offering personalized, one-on-one assisted stretch sessions to help improve mobility, reduce tension and enhance overall well-being. Certified Flexologists® will deliver customized programs for guests of all fitness levels, making StretchLab a valuable addition to The Village’s growing wellness community.
• Café Eugenia, a favorite local eatery, is expanding its footprint at Freshfields and also opening later this spring. The expanded space, adjacent to the current storefront, will allow Café Eugenia to introduce new offerings, including a wider selection of takeaway and prepackaged dinner options, while also providing space for private events and community gatherings. 

In addition to these exciting additions, two national retailers are unveiling refreshed spaces at Freshfields Village this season:

• Lululemon is currently updating its space with a refreshed interior and an expanded selection of premium activewear. Guests will soon be able to enjoy an elevated shopping experience and explore collections designed for yoga, running training, and everyday movement. The new space will also feature a dedicated workout area to host complimentary community classes.
• LoveShackFancy is refreshing its boutique, unveiling a newly reimagined space where visitors can discover the brand’s signature whimsical, vintage-inspired fashion and accessories. What began as a pop-up in April 2024 is now becoming a permanent part of The Village.

Freshfields Village, located at 165 Village Green Lane, is a lively destination where guests can shop, dine and relax, with new experiences and refreshed spaces adding to its charm. The Village is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., though hours may vary for certain retailers.

For more information about Freshfields and The Village happenings, visit www.freshfieldsvillage.com/events.

ABOUT FRESHFIELDS VILLAGE

Freshfields Village is an open-air shopping and dining destination, ideally located at the crossroads of Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns Islands, just 30 minutes from historic downtown Charleston. From casual and fine dining to salons and services, Freshfields has much to offer those visiting and those who call Charleston “home.” The sidewalks are lined with both local shops, high-end boutiques and regional and national retailers featuring over 30 unique shops and 11 dining experiences. The Village is bookended by luxury hotel, Andell Inn, and the beautiful Kiawah Island Lowcountry landscape. Follow Freshfields Village on social media (Facebook: @FreshfieldsVillage; Instagram @FreshfieldsVillage) for upcoming events, itineraries, and more. 

ABOUT EDENS

EDENS’ purpose is to enrich community through human engagement. The company owns, develops and stewards a leading real estate portfolio of more than 100 open-air retail and mixed-use places in high-growth markets coast to coast. Through intentional design, thoughtful curation and meaningful engagement, EDENS’ places reach an estimated 15 million people daily. EDENS has offices in key markets including Washington, D.C., Boston, Dallas, Columbia, SC, Atlanta, Miami, Charlotte, Houston, Denver and San Francisco. For additional information about the company, visit www.edens.com.

Photo Credit: Freshfields Village and Ellis Creek Photography

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Grace-Miller Moody has made it through the Battle Rounds to emerge as a contender to win the hit singing competition.

Grace-Miller Moody almost deleted the email that has changed her life.

“I honestly thought it was a scam,” she says when producers of The Voice, the hit NBC singing competition, asked her to come to Los Angeles after viewing her pre-audition video.

But it was for real, and she had her dad to thank after he convinced her to send in the audition tape.

“My dad was like, ‘You need to do this,’” she recalls “’This is your God-given gift, and you need to pursue it.’”

During the blind auditions on the season premiere Feb. 3, the psychology major got a rare four-chair turn from all four judges, meaning they all wanted her for their teams. That included Adam Levine, the lead singer of Maroon 5. Moody had chosen “Sunday Morning” because of what it meant to her family. Maroon 5 performed their upbeat song at a concert in Las Vegas that she and her family attended to celebrate her younger brother’s leukemia going into remission.

“The song makes me think of my family in general, like being with them on a Sunday morning or just sharing a really fun time with them,” Moody says. “So that was what I was thinking of when I was performing it.

“It was just an out-of-body experience,” she adds. “I was just trying to make it through the song, and then all of a sudden, all four chairs turned, and I was like, ‘What is happening?’”

It was the first time Levine had ever turned for one of his songs.

“I can definitely help you get to where you need to go because the potential for you is limitless,” he told her. “There was just something about you and what you were doing that was so infectious and so lovable and soulful. You can absolutely go all the way and win this thing.”

No surprise she chose to be on Levine’s team. She recently made it through the Battle Rounds singing “Use Somebody” by Kings of Leon and is now one of 32 contestants left.

As a young girl growing up in Florence, South Carolina, Moody loved to sing, whether it was belting out Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” at home or taking the stage at local karaoke nights singing Abba’s “Dancing Queen.”

“I first got into music when I was able to talk and just start singing,” she recalls. “I’ve always sung around the house, and I’ve always loved singing.”

Despite coming from a family with no other musically inclined members, Moody’s passion for performing only grew stronger as she got older. It wasn’t until her sophomore year at the College that she started “gigging” at karaoke spots. These experiences solidified her desire to pursue music.

Moody has enjoyed her experience on The Voice, pointing out that she has gained newfound confidence in her abilities, and her voice has grown stronger as a result. She has also formed deep connections with fellow contestants, who have become trusted guides in the music industry. She’s even made a best friend on the show.

“I’ve never been in such a creative space or been surrounded by that many people that love the same thing that I do and have the same drive and passion,” Moody says. “This is honestly my favorite part of the entire experience.”

Moody now awaits the next level of competition – the Knockout Rounds, which begin March 31. During this stage, Moody will go up against another member of Levine’s team, competing for Levein’s decision to take them to the live shows.

Moody is ready for this next step in the competition and her career – wherever it ultimately takes her.

“If you dream big and if it’s something that you want, I definitely think you can get it and you can achieve it,’ she says. “Anytime you don’t think it’s worth it, think that it is.”

Moody’s Picks

Favorite place to study
The Rise Coffee Shop and Addlestone Library 

Favorite place to hang out
The Battery

Favorite place to sing
Tommy Condon’s Irish Pub & Restaurant on Monday nights

Favorite class (currently)
Music 292: Repertory Class: Voice with Sandy DeAthos-Meers, associate professor of music

Favorite campus organization
Alpha Delta Pi 

Social media handles 
Instagram – Gracemillermoody
TikTok – gm.moody21

Source: The College of Charleston Today

The Zumper National Rent Report has been released and Charleston, South Carolina stands as having the 18th highest rents in the nation.

Charleston, South Carolina Trends

• Year over year overall rents have grown by 2%
• 1-Bedroom rents have dropped month over month by 1.0% to $1,930
• 2-Bedroom rents have dropped month over month by 1.2% to $2,500

National trends from the recent report:

1. The Zumper National Rent Index reported a 0.1% monthly decline in median one-bedroom rent this March, settling at $1,524, while two-bedroom rent stayed flat at $1,905. On an annual basis, one and two-bedroom rents are up 2.5% and 3.1%, respectively.
2. San Francisco one-bedroom rent reached a nearly 5-year high, hitting $3,200, indicating the city’s ongoing recovery.
3. Other Bay Area cities down the Peninsula and in the South Bay are experiencing double digit annual rent price growth rates up to 32%.
4. Austin’s one-bedroom rent marked the 8th largest annual decline in the nation, driven by supply and shifting population trends.

Top Risers and Drops in Rent Price

Breakdown by city/location

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city rich in history and culture, often celebrated for its many “firsts” in the United States. Here’s a look at some of the groundbreaking events and innovations that originated in Charleston:

Colonial and Early American Firsts

• First Permanent English Settlement in South Carolina: Established at Albemarle Point in 1670, marking the beginning of Charleston’s history as a vital colonial hub.

• First Public Library: Founded in 1698, Charleston established the first lending library in the American colonies.

• First Opera Performance: In 1735, Charleston hosted America’s first opera, Flora: Or Hob in the Well.

• First Theatre Building: The Dock Street Theatre, constructed in 1736, was the first building dedicated solely to theatrical performances.

• First Public Museum: The Charleston Museum, organized in 1773, became the first museum in America.

Cultural and Educational Milestones

• First Municipal College: The College of Charleston, founded in 1770 and opened in 1838, is the oldest municipal college in the U.S..

• First Golf Club: The South Carolina Golf Club, formed in 1786, introduced golf to America.

Architectural Innovations

• First Fireproof Building: Designed by Robert Mills and completed in 1826, Charleston’s Fireproof Building was the first of its kind in the nation.

• Oldest Landscaped Gardens: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens boasts America’s oldest public gardens.

Technological and Military Firsts

• First Steam Locomotive for Regular Service: The “Best Friend of Charleston,” built in 1830, was America’s first steam locomotive used for regular railroad service.

• First Successful Submarine Attack: The Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley achieved this milestone by sinking the USS Housatonic in Charleston Harbor during the Civil War in 1864.

Culinary Contributions

• She-Crab Soup: This iconic dish originated in Charleston and gained fame after being served to President William H. Taft.

Charleston’s legacy as a city of firsts underscores its pivotal role in shaping American history and culture. From arts and education to technology and cuisine, its contributions remain influential to this day.

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In its next phase, the Health and Happiness Study aims to collect wellbeing data from over 10,000 global participants using surveys, Garmin smartwatches, and smartphones  

OLATHE, Kansas/PRNewswire/ — Garmin (NYSE: GRMN), in collaboration with researchers at Harvard University and the University of Oxford, today announced the early results from the first largescale study of its kind in this field, which seeks to identify predictors of happiness and wellbeing using data from smartwatches and smartphones to inform global public policies and product development. As the exclusive smartwatch provider, Garmin plays a critical role by leveraging the high-quality sensor data of its product portfolio.

The pilot study revealed several statistically significant findings. And while initial results need to be corroborated through the larger global study, they illustrated an important relationship between sleep, exercise and happiness.

Key findings included:

• Daily physical activity and adequate sleep, both measured by Garmin devices, were strongly correlated with increased happiness and reduced levels of stress.
• Emotional stability varied by age, with older adults showing more stability and younger adults more variability.
• The study demonstrated high retention rates, suggesting participants found value in self-monitoring emotions during the day.
• Respondents were happiest when involved in cultural and social activities, eating, or spending time with friends and family.

“As a collaborator on more than 1,000 research studies and clinical trials, the Garmin Health team is uniquely positioned to provide smartwatches with excellent battery performance, high-quality sensors and dynamic API or SDK integration for monitoring and reporting. We are honored to work with academic researchers at Harvard University and the University of Oxford on this groundbreaking study to better understand the intersection of happiness and health.”
—Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing  

After receiving approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB), the pilot study was launched by Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health researchers – in collaboration with the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the University of Warwick, the University of Saskatchewan, Avicenna and Garmin – at the Lugano Happiness Forum in Switzerland on June 18, 2024. Now, after successfully completing initial test phases, the Health and Happiness Study is expanding to include more than 10,000 participants from across the globe.

Surveys are sent to respondents’ smartphones three times per day, asking them to identify their current level of happiness and activities directly preceding the survey. Those reports are then cross-referenced with data from Garmin smartwatches and smartphones to provide a nuanced, qualitative and quantitative representation of how happiness is impacted by variables like physical activity, sleep, socialization and stress.

“The Health and Happiness Study is thrilled to work with Garmin as our exclusive smartwatch collaborator. Garmin’s unique combination of advanced wearable technology, a health-conscious user base, and a strong commitment to improving lives through data makes them the ideal partner for this groundbreaking research. By leveraging Garmin’s capabilities, we aim to overcome the recruitment and retention challenges that have hindered similar studies and uncover new insights into the drivers of mental health and wellbeing.”
—Micah Kaats, Principal Investigator, Harvard University

The Health and Happiness Study is currently accepting applicants.

Garmin Health, a leading provider of digital health solutions that leverage the sensor data and insights of the Garmin product ecosystem, delivers custom results for corporate wellness, population health and patient monitoring programs. By using the Garmin Health API and SDK, third parties can seamlessly integrate real-time and historical smartwatch data into their apps in accordance with their specific privacy policies. As part of a global company that designs, manufactures and ships products worldwide, Garmin Health empowers enterprises to work with a single, trusted provider. For more information, email our media team, connect with us on LinkedIn or visit us online at garmin.com/health.

About Garmin International, Inc. Garmin International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:

This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 28, 2024, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0001-411180). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at http://www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html.

No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Premier Indoor Pickleball Club Enters South Carolina as Part of National Growth Strategy

CHARLESTON, S.C. /PRNewswire/ — PickleRage, a premier indoor pickleball club franchise, is thrilled to announce their newest location, bringing a top-tier pickleball facility to South Carolina. Located at 5101 Ashley Phosphate Rd, North Charleston, SC, the club will deliver the ultimate pickleball experience, offering dedicated indoor courts, community events, and opportunities for players of all levels to engage in America’s fastest-growing sport.

Situated in a prime retail area in North Charleston at the intersection of Ashley Phosphate Rd and Dorchester Rd, the location draws significant attention from both residents and visitors. It offers excellent visibility and accessibility, seeing over 71,000 vehicles a day. PickleRage at Festival Centre is anticipated to open in Q3 of 2025, marking the club’s first location in the state.

“Expanding into South Carolina represents an exciting step for PickleRage as we continue to grow nationally,” commented David Smith, COO at PickleRage. “We’re excited to become part of the community and provide a welcoming space where players can connect, compete, and improve their game.”

The 40,195-square-foot cutting-edge facility will include 13 indoor CushionX courts designed for optimal player performance and comfort. The joint-friendly courts will boast excellent visibility and sightlines in a temperature-controlled environment. Additionally, the club will offer a fully stocked pro shop with high-quality equipment and apparel, along with advanced technology solutions for seamless court bookings and check-ins. A range of programs, lessons, and clinics will be offered that aim to nurture a vibrant community and foster connections among players of all skill levels.

“North Charleston is an ideal market for PickleRage,” said Chris Daiss, VP of Real Estate and Construction at PickleRage. “Festival Centre’s high traffic and central location make it the perfect spot to introduce our state-of-the-art facility. The growing enthusiasm for pickleball in the community aligns perfectly with our mission to provide a world-class playing experience for all skill levels.”

The club will be located at Festival Centre, a nearly 330,000-square-foot shopping center, providing ideal access for the community of North Charleston to visit PickleRage.

For more information about PickleRage at Festival Centre, please visit: https://picklerage.com/locations/north-charleston-sc/.

About PickleRage

Founded in 2023, PickleRage is one of America’s fastest growing indoor pickleball clubs that gives novice & advanced players alike a place to play and connect. PickleRage was founded by a group of pickleball enthusiasts who saw a need for dedicated indoor facilities where players could enjoy the sport year-round. Recognizing the sport’s rapid growth and community spirit, they set out to create the ultimate indoor pickleball experience. PickleRage offers a dynamic environment for both novice and advanced players to play, connect, and enjoy the sport. For more information on franchising with PickleRage, please visit https://picklerage.com

SOURCE PickleRage