Author: Charleston Daily

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today was joined by North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess, members of the General Assembly, and other local leaders for a ceremonial bill signing of H. 3333, the Tax Increment Financing Act, which allows redevelopment authorities (RDAs) at former federal military installations to use Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds for the development of affordable housing projects. 

“With this signing, our local municipalities will be able to make significant investments in infrastructure, workforce housing, security, and economic development,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “By giving these redevelopment authorities the flexibility to use TIF funds for affordable housing projects, we are helping to strengthen our communities and generate additional investment and opportunity in South Carolina.” 

A TIF is a public financing tool that allows local governments to invest in redevelopment and pay for it over time using the increased property tax revenues generated by the improvements. 

“This law sets the redevelopment of the former Navy Base on a new path, one that strengthens our connection to the military, supports infrastructure, and creates opportunities that will benefit families, businesses, and communities across the state,” said Mayor Reggie Burgess. “It gives cities like North Charleston the ability to plan boldly and invest wisely, ensuring that redevelopment serves not just the land it touches, but the people who call this region home.”

Military redevelopment authorities were created in 1994 to oversee the redevelopment of former military installations and guide public infrastructure improvements. There are currently three military redevelopment authorities in South Carolina – the Charleston Naval Complex Redevelopment Authority, the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority, and the Savannah River Site Redevelopment Authority. 

“I am proud to support an initiative that gives our community a meaningful boost,” said Senator Sean Bennett. “This work will revitalize the area and restore it to the special place it once was. I look forward to continuing our work to improve this great community.”

Affordable housing is defined as residential housing for rent or sale that is appropriately priced for a person or family whose income does not exceed 80 percent of the median income for the local area, according to figures released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

“This new legislation reflects a shared commitment to breathe new life into the former Naval Base and will ultimately generate economic opportunity for North Charleston and the state. It will also preserve history while creating homes and providing public spaces that will enrich the community,” said Jay Weaver, Founder and President at Weaver Capital Partners. “We envision a neighborhood where people from all walks of life will live, work, and thrive, and we look forward to bringing that vision to life in the years ahead.”

The law also extends the deadline for the issuance of debt associated with the eligible redevelopment project from 15 to 35 years. 

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Eating well doesn’t have to eat into your budget. We uncover the top U.S. cities and neighborhoods where dining out and dining affordably go hand in hand.

For many Americans, stretching a food budget can feel like a juggling act — balancing taste, nutrition, and the clock. With rising costs, it’s easy to fall back on drive-thru value menus. 

But eating well doesn’t have to mean eating expensively.

Advance America, a leading loan provider, surveyed 3,024 self-proclaimed ‘foodies’ to uncover the top U.S. cities and neighborhoods where dining well and dining affordably go hand in hand.

“Eating well isn’t just about what’s on the plate — it’s about access, affordability, and real-life schedules,” says Laura McCutcheon, VP of Marketing at Advance America. “These spots show that enjoying good food doesn’t need to be complicated or costly; it just needs to be part of the community fabric.”

From college towns to historic districts, we discovered that eating well isn’t just about location — it’s also about finding places where local food culture thrives.

Here are the top 10 spots proving that you don’t need to be earning a top salary to eat well:

1. Athens, Georgia
2. Riverside, Jacksonville, Florida
3. Downtown Greenville, South Carolina
4. East Nashville, Tennessee
5. North Charleston, South Carolina
6. Downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee
7. East Austin, Texas
8. Old Town Albuquerque, New Mexico
9. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
10. Downtown Asheville, North Carolina

View our complete list of the top 110 cities and neighborhoods where you can eat well for less:

https://www.advanceamerica.net/money-saving-tips/budgeting-tips/best-neighborhoods-to-eat-well-on-budget

Methodology

This study is based on an online panel survey of 3,024 foodies, conducted to find out where people across America feel they can eat well on a budget. Participants were selected to reflect a balanced mix across age, gender, and geography. To ensure statistical reliability, internal data sources were used to establish population benchmarks, and a two-step process was applied: stratified sampling followed by post-stratification weighting. This ensured the survey results accurately aligned with the broader U.S. population. The survey was carried out in September 2025.

About Advance America

Founded in 1997, Advance America is a leading online state-licensed consumer lender in the US. It operates over 800 storefronts in communities across 22 states, along with online lending operations, and has approximately 2,500 employees. Advance America seeks to help each customer achieve their version of financial stability in the moment and in the future through a variety of personal credit options. Please visit AdvanceAmerica.net for more information.

SOURCE Advance America

Embrace the holidays and enjoy favorite traditions with a Thanksgiving farmers market, outdoor movies, letters to Santa and more

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. (October 29, 2025) –  Freshfields Village, the premier shopping and dining destination 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, announces a festive lineup of holiday activities that the whole family can enjoy this season. From charming décor throughout the Village to classic holiday movies under the Lowcountry sky, the destination will bustle with holiday activity. Beginning Thanksgiving week and continuing through December, visitors and locals alike are invited to enjoy a variety of free events at Freshfields, the perfect backdrop for celebrating the season and creating lasting memories with family and friends. While taking in the festivities, guests are encouraged to explore the Village’s distinctive mix of local boutiques and national retailers to discover thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on their holiday list.

“From our shops to The Village Green, Freshfields comes alive in a way that’s truly unique during the holidays,” said Herbert Ames, EDENS managing director. “This is a time when families, neighbors and the entire community come together to celebrate and support the shops and owners who make our Village so vibrant. The holidays at Freshfields aren’t just festive; they strengthen the connections that bring our community to life.”

2025 Freshfields Village holiday events include: 

Thanksgiving Farmers Market
Monday, November 24, 1–5 pm
The Thanksgiving Farmers Market at Freshfields marks the start of the holiday season in the Lowcountry. Guests can wander through the market and explore offerings from local farmers and artisans, from fresh, seasonal produce to thoughtfully crafted gifts. Grab homemade sourdough bread from Moonrise Loaf, hand-painted pottery from Rainbow Row Fun! Designs, or fresh vegetables from Joseph Field Farms. Individuals can cross items off their Thanksgiving feast list or get an early start on holiday gifting.

Post-Thanksgiving Holiday Entertainment
Friday, November 28 – Sunday, November 30, times vary
From Friday through Sunday, The Village will come alive with holiday magic, transforming into a winter wonderland for families and visitors to enjoy following Thanksgiving. The Village Green will be filled with the sights and sounds of the season, featuring live music, photos with Santa, and a cheerful craft station offering creative fun for all ages. A lively holiday market will showcase local makers with distinctive gifts and handmade treasures. Throughout the weekend, guests can take part in a variety of activities and experiences, including:

Friday, November 28

• Santa Photos: 10 am – 5 pm
• Live Music by Island Duo: 10 am – 1:30 pm
• Live Music by Dave Landeo: 1:45 – 5 pm

Saturday, November 29

• Santa Photos: 10 am – 5 pm
• Tunes by DJ Ben Felton: 10 am – 5 pm
• Holiday Market: 10 am – 5 pm
• St Johns Fire trucks 10 am – 5 pm

Sunday, November 30

• Santa Photos: 11 am – 3 pm

Letters to Santa
Friday, November 28 – Friday, December 19
Freshfields Village invites families to continue a beloved holiday tradition! Children can drop their letters to Santa in a special red mailbox located near the Christmas trees on The Village Green. Santa’s elves will collect every letter and deliver it directly to the North Pole. Individuals are encouraged to leave a return address; Santa loves writing back!

Holiday Movies on The Green
Saturday, December 6 & Saturday, December 13, starting at 6 pm
Movies on The Green is back for two festive weekends this December! Gather the family and enjoy classic holiday favorites under the stars. On December 6, we’ll screen Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, followed by A Christmas Story on December 13. Both events are free and open to all. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and a picnic to make it a cozy, relaxed evening outdoors with family and friends.

For more information about these events and other happenings at Freshfields, visit https://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, 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.

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Photo Credit: Ruta Smith Photography

CARA FISCHER | TINY ZOO – November 20-January 10

Opening Reception: November 20, 5:30-8:30pm Gallery Hours: Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm

The Tiny Zoo is an immersive installation created by Cara Fischer. The exhibition will open the night of November 20th at Public Works Art Center, during downtown Summerville’s Third Thursday art night.

In the 8’x10’ “Vault Gallery” space, Cara will bring her Tiny Zoo to life! This will be her first solo exhibition. Shehas received grant funding for this project from the South Carolina Arts Commission. Using paper maché to create these animals, Cara wanted to build a zoo because, for her, it is a place of conflicting emotions. Happy, core childhood memories of zoo visits are in contrast to the empathy she feels now for the captive animals. With this exhibition she is not demonizing zoos, but rather opening a dialogue about wildness versus captivity. She is very excited to share her new creatures with the public in order to inspire imagination, playfulness, and self- inquiry for each visitor.

Come join us on opening night to hold and take pictures with our eleven-foot snake, Lucky, make your ownTiny Zoo membership card, and learn about the history of our animals from the Zookeepers.

Cara Fischer is a Charleston-based artist. Her work explores the emotional presence of the human figure and the interplay between observation and imagination. A former preschool teacher, she returned to artwith a focus on bold, graphic forms, drawing daily from life and memory. She has participated inRedux’s Lightning Residency and has shown work locally at

Redux, the Grand Bohemian Gallery, and Kulture Klash. She has painted several murals around Charleston including places like the Pour House and Bar Rollins. She even painted one in Australia!

Follow Cara and The Tiny Zoo on Instagram.

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Photo Credit: Ashley Stanol

Fairfax, SC — As the federal government shutdown continues to hurt working families across the country, U.S. Senate candidate Brandon Brown and Fairfax Town Councilwoman Phyllis Smart led a team of local volunteers this morning todistribute food to more than 250 families in Fairfax, one of the poorest communities in South Carolina and among the hardest hit by the economic fallout of the shutdown.

Located in Allendale County, Fairfax is home to resilient, hard-working people who have long endured high poverty rates and limited access to essential services. With federal assistance programs like SNAP and WIC facing disruption due tothe shutdown, the community has once again come together to ensure that no family goes hungry.

“This is what leadership looks like,” said Brandon Brown, who organized the event as part of his campaign’s ongoing “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” initiative. “When Washington fails to act, when political games in D.C. cause realsuffering here at home, we don’t wait for someone else to fix it — we take care of each other. That’s what South Carolina values are all about.”

Councilwoman Phyllis Smart, who joined Brown in coordinating the event and local volunteers, emphasized the importance of community unity in difficult times.

“Fairfax knows struggle, but we also know strength,” Smart said. “Our people may not have much, but when one of us is in need, we all show up. Today we proved again that compassion is our greatest resource.”

Volunteers worked throughout the morning unloading trucks, sorting fresh produce, and handing out boxes of groceries to families lined up outside the Fairfax Community Center. Residents started lining up at 7:00am for the distribution which started at 10:00am. Many spoke about the pride they felt in serving their neighbors during such a challenging moment.

“I’ve lived here my whole life,” said Mary Jenkins, a local volunteer. “We don’t always get noticed down here, but Brandon Brown and Ms. Smart reminded us that we matter — that we’re seen, and that help is still possible even when things feel uncertain.”

Brown said that this initiative is part of a broader effort to meet the immediate needs of working families while also advocating for long-term policy solutions to tackle poverty, food insecurity, and economic inequality in South Carolina.

“Fairfax shouldn’t be forgotten,” Brown added. “Every child deserves a meal, every worker deserves a paycheck, and every family deserves a government that works for them, and not against them. I’m running for Senate because this fight is personal. We can build a South Carolina where no one is left behind.”

###

About Brandon Brown:

Brandon Brown is a lifelong South Carolinian, higher education leader, and candidate for the United States Senate. Hiscampaign is focused on restoring dignity, fairness, and opportunity for working families across the state.For more information, visit www.BrandonBrownforSC.com

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Underground Chuck’s Brings Bold Flavors, Welcoming Bar Environment and Laid-Back Vibes to Charleston

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA (October 30, 2025) — Underground Chuck’s is proud to be the newest restaurant in the Charleston area and will officially open its doors at 4 pm on November 4! Located at 2126 Henry Tecklenburg Drive and available for delivery, Underground Chuck’s pairs flavor-packed, craveable food with a bar-friendly environment, featuring prime TV-viewing spots, a wide selection of local craft beers, and signature cocktails.

Underground Chuck’s menu offers a dining experience designed for food lovers and casual diners alike, built around Chuck’s delicious handhelds, handcrafted 100% American Angus burgers, flatbreads and more. With a relaxing vibe, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with friends, bring the family or catch the big game.

“Bringing Underground Chuck’s to Charleston represents the next chapter in our journey in creating a new concept that everyone can enjoy,” said Lee Rathbun, President and Chief Administrative Officer.“Guests are going to experience a whole new look in the restaurant with unique and craveable menu offerings along with great local beers and craft cocktails. Our team put a ton of hard work and effort went into bringing this vision to life, and we cannot wait to open the doors to join one of the most vibrant dining scenes in the country and serve the incredible people in the Charleston area.”

Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday in the bar area. Online ordering and delivery are also available.

Underground Chuck’s handhelds include:

• Bodacious Bourbon Burger — Sweet with a little heat! Melted gouda cheese and bourbon bacon sauce. $14.99
• Pimento Patty Melt — Two crispy edged smash patties layered with pimento cheese and caramelized onions on buttery Texas toast with a side of mayo. $15.99
• Chili Crisp Chicken BLT — Packed with flavor! Choice of grilled or crispy fried chicken, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, & chili crisp mayo. $13.99
• Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich — Sweet, spicy, crunchy, and saucy. Crispy fried chicken, kimchi slaw, pickled red onions, & mayo. $14.99
• Wild Caught Grouper Sandwich — Cornmeal breaded and seasoned with OLD BAY® Seasoning. Served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, & OLD BAY® Seasoning aioli. $15.99

For those looking for main events, Underground Chuck’s has you covered. Entrée options include:

• Chuck’s Signature Wings — 6-pack of wings tossed in one of six Sweet Baby Ray’s ® sauces and served with celery and your choice of ranch or bleu cheese. $11.99 (Bone-In) | $8.99 (Boneless)
• Brussels Sprout Chicken Salad — Shaved brussels sprouts & cabbage tossed with pickled red onion, edamame, candied pecans, & bleu cheese crumbles in a balsamic vinaigrette. $13.99
• Wild Caught Grouper — Two grouper filets crispy fried with cornmeal breading and seasoned with OLD BAY® Seasoning. Served with two sides. $24.99
• Swordfish — Pan roasted either Blackened-Style or Topped with Lemon Caper Sauce. Served with two sides. $24.99

Finally, finish the meal with irresistible desserts:

• Butter Cake — Moist cake drizzled with white chocolate sauce & your choice of toppings, including mint and berries or Butterfinger crumbles and milk chocolate sauce. $10.99
• Mango Layer Cake — Tropical mango mousse with a kiss of passion fruit layered between soft vanilla sponge cake, topped with a mango glaze. Served a la mode. $11.99

Ready for a beer? Underground Chuck’s has local Charleston brews on draft including Edmunds Oast, Frothy Beard, Holy City Brewing, Munkle Brewing Co., and Snafu Brewing Co. among many other options.

Whether you’re hunting for your new favorite burger, grabbing a drink with friends or just looking for somewhere that feels like a home away from home, Underground Chuck’s is ready to welcome you.

For more information, visit www.undergroundchucks.com. Underground Chuck’s is also on Facebook and Instagram.

Related: What’s New in Charleston this Fall (2025) – Insider Guide

Related: Holidays in Charleston – Insider guide to events, pop ups and more.

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CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA – Democratic state legislators are coordinating efforts with local faith organizations, civic groups, and nonprofit food banks to assist residents impacted by the uncertainty surrounding SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

More than 550,000 South Carolinians rely on SNAP to afford groceries, including more than 60,000 people in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties, according to the Department of Social Services. The looming expiration of SNAP benefits threatens to increase hunger at a time when grocery prices have already risen nearly 25% since 2020.

“No family in South Carolina should be wondering how they’re going to put food on the table,” Representative Courtney Waters (D-North Charleston) said. “If Congress and the White House won’t step up, then people here in the Lowcountry will. Now is the time for us to come together and help our neighbors, while continuing to call for federal leaders to extend SNAP benefits and protect our families from going hungry.”

Charleston’s Democratic lawmakers are working to assist local organizations such as Lowcountry Food Bank by coordinating food and monetary donations and working to establish additional food distribution sites.

Rep. Waters is joined in this effort by her fellow Democratic legislators in the Charleston County delegation: Rep. Wendell Gilliard (D-Charleston), Sen. Margie Bright Matthews (D-Walterboro), Rep. JA Moore (D-North Charleston), Sen. Ronnie Sabb (D-Greeleyville), Rep. Tiffany Spann-Wilder (D-North Charleston), Rep. Leon Stavrinakis (D-Charleston), Sen. Ed Sutton (D-Charleston), Sen. Deon Tedder (D-North Charleston), and Rep. Spencer Wetmore (D-Folly Beach).

Local residents who need help accessing food resources – as well as those who wish to donate to support the effort to help our neighbors during this time – are encouraged to contact the Lowcountry Food Bank and their distribution partners.

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Project adds momentum to efforts to link thousands of protected acres across the Lowcountry

Charleston, SC, October 23, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is proud to announce the acquisition of the 266-acre Knight Tract in Dorchester County. This project represents a significant step toward achieving a long-held conservation goal:  connecting the 13,000+ acres of protected land at Brosnan Forest and the more than 12,300 contiguous protected acres within and surrounding Audubon South Carolina’s Beidler Forest.

Located adjacent to Brosnan Forest, also protected by Lowcountry Land Trust and the location of its annual Sporting Clays Shoot, the Knight Tract represents a critical link in an expanding corridor of conserved lands stretching toward Four Hole Swamp. By protecting this land, the project enhances habitat connectivity, safeguards water resources, and helps maintain the natural landscape that defines the Lowcountry. 

The Knight Tract features portions of Walnut and Coldwater Branches, two significant tributaries that ultimately feed into the Edisto River. Protecting and enhancing these waterways, a project the team at Brosnan Forest is dedicated to, helps preserve one of South Carolina’s most important river systems and contributes to regional flood mitigation, wildlife connectivity, and clean water initiatives.

“Brosnan Forest and Lowcountry Land Trust share a deep commitment to protecting the natural systems that make the Lowcountry so special,” said Joel Wells, Brosnan Forest’s Facilities Director. “From our ongoing work to restore Coldwater Branch and surrounding watersheds to supporting the protection  of the Knight Tract, we’re proud to help strengthen the ecological connection that sustains wildlife, water quality, and community resilience across this landscape.”

The tract also offers tremendous potential for public recreation. Lowcountry Land Trust, after placing a conservation easement on the land, will transfer ownership of the property to Dorchester County for its intended use as a passive public park. With additional features including a breached mill pond dam, scenic wetland habitats, and multiple access points, the site is well-suited for community access.

“This project demonstrates how conservation can serve both nature and people,” said Matt Williams, president and CEO of Lowcountry Land Trust. “By protecting the Knight Tract, we’re expanding one of the most important wildlife corridors in the Southeast while creating a new opportunity for residents to connect with the outdoors in northern Dorchester County.”

The acquisition of the Knight Tract was made possible through funding from the South Carolina Conservation Bank and Dorchester County’s Greenbelt Program. Audubon South Carolina and Brosnan Forest also provided funding to support the project.

“This is a rare opportunity to connect South Carolinians with one of the Lowcountry’s most ecologically significant landscapes,” said Raleigh West, Director of the South Carolina Conservation Bank. “By securing a publicly accessible place near the protected lands of Brosnan Forest and Beidler Forest, we’re ensuring future generations can experience the natural beauty of this region while safeguarding its ecological integrity.”

Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTrust on social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.

ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST

Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres since 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful land trusts in the country. Its work includes the stewardship of privately owned land and iconic public places, such as the future Angel Oak Preserve—a 44-acre passive park and living museum in partnership with the City of Charleston. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org. 

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By Mark A Leon

When Is Mercury Retrograde?

In astrology, Mercury Retrograde is when Mercury appears to move backwards in the sky (it’s an optical illusion), and astrologers believe it influences communication, technology, travel, and decision-making. 

In 2025, there are three main Mercury Retrograde periods (plus their surrounding “shadow” periods) including the final period of the year, November 9 through November 29.

Before and after each official retrograde there’s also a “pre-shadow” and “post-shadow” period when things may feel sluggish or subtly off even though Mercury is not officially retrograde. 

What Challenges Could It Pose?

Astrologically speaking, Mercury Retrograde is often associated with disruptions and friction in key areas:

1. Communication Mishaps
   Misunderstandings, mis-sent emails or texts, unclear conversations — things that rely on clear messaging may go awry.  
2. Technology Glitches
   Devices might act up: software bugs, crashes, delays in responses, or lost data. It’s the kind of time when you might regret not backing something up.  
3. Travel Delays or Plan Changes
   Tickets, reservations, schedules — travel tends to be more vulnerable. Delays, cancellations, or last-minute changes become more likely.  
4. Contracts / Decisions / Signings
   Because Mercury rules over “messenger” functions, signing agreements or making major decisions during retrograde is often seen as risky. Something might be overlooked or the terms may not be as clear as you think.  
5. Emotional or Mental Frustration
   On a more internal level, people sometimes report feeling more irritable, unfocused, or prone to misunderstandings with others.  

That said, it’s not universally “bad.” Many astrologers see Mercury Retrograde as a time for reflection, review, and revisiting things rather than launching brand-new ones. 

How Can We Prepare?

You can’t avoid Mercury Retrograde — but you can reduce friction and maybe even benefit from it. Here are ways to prepare:

• Back up your data
  Before the retrograde begins, make sure important files, contacts, and documents are saved somewhere safe.
• Double-check communications
  Reread emails, contracts, messages before sending. Slow down when drafting important documents.
• Leave extra margin in travel or scheduling
  Book with some buffer time. Confirm reservations. Be ready for delays or unexpected changes.
• Avoid major launches / signings if possible
  If you can delay a contract signing, a big announcement, or launching a new project until after the retrograde ends, that might reduce risk.
• Use it as a review period
  Instead of pushing forward blindly, consider retrograde time as an opportunity to revisit past projects, review goals, tidy up loose ends, or reconnect with people you haven’t spoken to in a while.
• Practice patience and flexibility
  Accept that not everything will go perfectly. When something doesn’t proceed as planned, treat it as a chance to learn, adjust, and respond rather than get stuck in frustration.
• Reflect inwardly
  Use the energy to journal, meditate, re-examine your routines or communication style. Sometimes the value of Mercury Retrograde is what it teaches you about how you operate when things aren’t seamless.

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston’s food-truck scene is more than a collection of kitchens on wheels — it’s a community of dreamers who pour heart, grit, and family spirit into every meal. Here are four that capture the true flavor of hard work and passion on the move.

The Immortal Lobster

Who knew Maine lobster would find a home in the Lowcountry? The Immortal Lobster has made it a Charleston favorite through relentless dedication and quality-first cooking. Their lobster rolls, grilled cheese melts, and bisques aren’t just indulgent — they’re crafted with pride. The team sources lobster directly from Maine, pairs it with local ingredients, and delivers consistency and freshness that keep fans lining up. It’s a perfect blend of northern flavor and southern hospitality.

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Jack of All Trades BBQ LLC

Few things represent family and hard work better than barbecue done right. Jack of All Trades BBQ started as a backyard dream that turned into a beloved local staple. Their ribs, brisket, wings, and creative twists like BBQ egg rolls showcase a devotion to both tradition and innovation. Every dish reflects time, smoke, and love — a tribute to generations of pitmasters and family gatherings that shaped their flavor.

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Holy Rolly Charleston

Holy Rolly Charleston proves dessert can have soul. Founded by a couple who left corporate jobs to follow their passion, the rolled-ice-cream truck is a story of courage and creativity. They handcraft every serving from scratch — no pre-made bases, no shortcuts. Their “dessert sushi” and colorful rolls are a hit at festivals and family events alike. Beyond the artistry, Holy Rolly embodies resilience, showing that joy and craft can coexist even under Charleston’s summer sun.

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Southern Seafood / S & S

For soulful comfort food with a coastal twist, Southern Seafood / S & S is a true Charleston gem. Known for shrimp platters, fish sandwiches, and Philly-style creations, this family-run truck delivers Southern cooking that tastes like home. Each meal is made with care — from the first fry to the final garnish. Their story is one of perseverance and community, proving that with hard work and pride in your roots, great food will always find its crowd.

Together, these four food trucks show that Charleston’s culinary heart doesn’t just beat in its restaurants — it rolls through its streets, driven by family, flavor, and unshakable passion.

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Photo Credit: Food Trucks featured

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