Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A Leon

Charleston’s coastal charm, mild winters and growing healthcare infrastructure have turned the region into a magnet for retirees — and with that shift comes an important, often overlooked consequence: more older drivers on local roads. As Charleston and the larger Lowcountry continue to attract retirees, the rising number of drivers aged 65 and older is reshaping traffic patterns, public safety priorities and community planning across the area.

Nationwide data show older adults are an expanding share of the driving population. In 2023, older drivers made up about 22% of all licensed drivers — a share that has grown steadily over the past decade. Locally, South Carolina is among the states seeing strong retiree in-migration and attention as an appealing retirement destination, which increases the likelihood Charleston’s driver demographics will continue shifting toward older age groups. 

The safety trade-offs are complex. Aging can bring changes in vision, reaction time, hearing and mobility that affect driving performance; nationally, crash and fatality rates per population often rise for the oldest drivers. South Carolina in particular has been flagged in recent reporting and state traffic analyses for elevated rates of older-driver-involved crashes and fatalities, prompting concern among public health and transportation officials. For Charleston, a city with narrow historic streets, tourist traffic and seasonal surges, these risks are magnified when coupled with an aging driver base. 

The impacts are already showing up in several practical ways. Emergency medical services and hospital systems must prepare for a potential rise in crash-related injuries among older adults, who often have greater frailty and medical complexity. Local planners and transit agencies face pressure to expand safe alternatives to driving — more senior-friendly bus routes, on-demand shuttle services, and pedestrian improvements that help people age in place without relying exclusively on cars. Parking design, curb cuts, crosswalk timing and intersection visibility all become public-safety priorities when older residents are a larger share of street users.

Policy responses are emerging but need scaling. Driver re-testing rules, vision screenings, and targeted safety education for older drivers can reduce risk, and community programs that pair driving assessments with mobility counseling help match individuals to safe transportation alternatives. Charleston-area nonprofit and health organizations can also play a role by offering mobility clinics, fall-prevention programs and workshops on vehicle adaptations — from larger mirrors to advanced driver-assistance features that compensate for slower reaction times. 

There’s no single “right” solution: preserving independence is central for many retirees, yet public safety demands adaptation. For Charleston, the most effective approach will be layered — better data and targeted enforcement, investments in transit and walkability, community-based alternatives to solo driving, and technology that supports safer driving for older adults. As the Holy City continues to welcome retirees, planning that recognizes the realities of aging behind the wheel will be essential to keeping streets safe, neighborhoods connected, and older residents mobile and engaged.  

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By Mark A Leon

There’s something deeply comforting about a no-frills diner — the kind with an endless menu, the rich aroma of coffee filling the air, and a warm smile from the staff that feels like home. It’s the perfect place for unfiltered conversation or to recover from a long night. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite spots that capture that classic diner magic.

Here are 5 excellent dining spots in Charleston with the look and feel of a traditional American Diner with a few recommended dishes.

⸻

1. Bear -E- Patch  Cafe

Address: 1980-A Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29407  

Recommended dishes:

• Chicken & Belgian waffles (served with powdered sugar) or Breakfast Quesadilla 

• French toast (especially the raisin bread version)  

• Seafood omelet (shrimp/crab/scallops)  

Note:  They are closed on Sundays

https://bearepatchcafe.com

⸻

2. Early  Bird  Diner

Address: 1644 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407  

Recommended dishes:

• Chicken & waffles: a local standout for sweet + savory brunch.  

• Fried pork chop with pepper-jelly kick (mentioned in coverage)  

• Shrimp & grits or the “Mess” scrambled-egg curry dish (per guest review)  

Open 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Daily

https://www.earlybirddiner.com

⸻

3. Millers  All  Day

Address: 120 King St, Charleston, SC 29401  

Recommended dishes:

• The “Miller Plate”: eggs your way + grits or home fries + biscuit + sausage.  

• Biscuit with fried chicken or ham & fig — a highlight item.  

• Shrimp & grits with roasted tomato, bacon, benne seeds on cheddar grits.  

Two locations:  James Island and downtown Charleston

https://millersallday.com

⸻

4. Sweetwater  Cafe

Address: 137 Market St, Charleston, SC 29401  

Recommended dishes:

• 2-Egg Breakfast with meat (bacon/ham/sausage)  

• Omelets: e.g., Garden Patch (mushrooms/onions/peppers/tomato & cheese) or Spinach/Feta/Tomato.  

• French toast & crispy bacon – mentioned as a guest favorite.  

https://www.instagram.com/sweetwatercafesc

⸻

5. Handy  &  Hot by Vivian Howard

Address: 68 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401  

Recommended dishes:

• Bacon + Egg + Cheese biscuit sandwich — popular.  

• Veggies & Goat Cheese biscuit (savory vegetarian option)  

• Hand pies (sweet & savory) and pimento-cheese grit bowls.  

https://www.handyandhot.com

Giving and volunteering remain steady despite ongoing economic pressures

CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Blackbaud Giving Fund®, a donor-advised fund that brings supporters and nonprofits together to advance the state of giving, is proud to announce the disbursement of more than $558.7 million in charitable giving from generous donors across the world in 2024, bringing its lifetime disbursements to $2.75 billion.

Through workplace giving programs and peer-to-peer fundraising, The Blackbaud Giving Fund securely disbursed funds from individuals and corporations to more than 123,000 nonprofits worldwide in 2024. Corporate donation matches accounted for just over half of all donations disbursed through The Fund, which doubled the impact of individual gifts and maximized nonprofit support for critical causes around the globe.

“Despite the economic pressures of the past year, donors continued to give with remarkable intentionality and generosity,” said Matt Nash, executive director of The Blackbaud Giving Fund. “Their steady commitment shows that philanthropy is driven not just by financial capacity, but by values, compassion, and a shared belief in making a lasting difference.”

Backed by industry-leading security, The Blackbaud Giving Fund facilitates efficient transfers from donors to nonprofits. The Fund offers valuable resources to nonprofits, including ACH payments, receipting, and reporting through the free Blackbaud Verified Network platform, which helps nonprofits increase awareness and build relationships with the more than 8 million potential donors who use the platform.

The Blackbaud Giving Fund remains committed to supporting donors and nonprofits by simplifying the charitable giving experience through corporate giving models and peer-to-peer fundraising efforts. The Fund will continue to support important causes through efficient and secure donation delivery so nonprofits can continue working toward their mission.

For nonprofit resources and tips, visit The Blackbaud Giving Fund’s blog.

For more information about The Blackbaud Giving Fund, visit blackbaudgivingfund.org or follow the organization on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for updates, news, and more.

About The Blackbaud Giving Fund 
Facilitating $2.75 billion in charitable contributions to more than 286,000 nonprofits worldwide since 2020, The Blackbaud Giving Fund brings supporters and nonprofits together to advance the state of giving. The fund simplifies the giving experience by offering companies and individuals a secure and efficient way to give to vetted nonprofits and delivers contributions directly to them. Beyond disbursing all funds quickly to nonprofits, the fund offers resources to organizations, including receipting, a donor communication platform, statistics, reports, ACH payments, and more.

The Blackbaud Giving Fund is an independent 501(c)(3) public charity and donor-advised fund sponsor that was organized and operates exclusively for charitable purposes. It is not controlled by and is not a program or activity of Blackbaud, Inc. The Blackbaud Giving Fund’s mission is to unleash generosity by connecting people to causes they care about around the world.

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Local Real Estate Entrepreneur Brings Fast-Growing Cheeseburger Concept to the Lowcountry

WHAT: North Charleston is about to be painted Smorange™ as Smalls Sliders sets a date for its celebratory Can Drop.

This is the first Smalls Sliders Can to drop in the area, and this event marks another milestone for the rapidly growing cheeseburger slider brand as it expands its footprint across South Carolina with its second restaurant in development.

The North Charleston community will soon experience the taste of Smalls Sliders. The fast-growing, industry-disrupting QSR brand serves cheeseburger sliders, seasoned waffle fries, and milkshakes. The North Charleston Can will feature the brand’s Smorange™-colored shipping container hoisted above its innovative building, along with a relaxing turfed patio.

This location will be owned and operated by Elliott Strott through Sandlot Ventures LLC, a North Charleston-based franchise group. A longtime real estate professional, Strott discovered Smalls Sliders while in New Orleans and was instantly intrigued by its stand-alone, modular design and streamlined operations model.

Strott is eager to connect with the community, and Communities in School has been selected as North Charleston’s Small Town Hero. The statewide nonprofit surrounds students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and succeed in life. Through school-based coordinators and community partnerships, the organization helps address both academic and non-academic barriers to student success. Representatives from Communities in Schools will attend the grand opening celebration later this year, where they’ll be recognized for their ongoing impact in local schools.

This will be the first Can the group opens, and plans are already underway for a second location in North Charleston.

WHERE: 2280 Ashley Phosphate Rd, North Charleston, SC 29406

About Smalls Sliders

Smalls Sliders is one of the fastest-growing brands in the restaurant industry, specializing exclusively in fresh, cooked-to-order cheeseburger sliders that are small in size but big in taste.  Smalls Sliders is the brainchild of restaurateur visionary Brandon Landry, led by CEO Charles Watson, and is backed by 10 Point Capital and former NFL star Drew Brees, as investors. For more information on how Smalls Sliders is the biggest thing to happen to burgers since buns, visit www.smallssliders.com.

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By Mark A Leon

In the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, a powerful documentary has emerged to shed light on the struggles of residents in Gadsden Green, an 82-year-old affordable housing community that has long been overlooked and underserved. Filmmaker Travis Pearson‘s “Back Da Green” , released in 2024, is more than just a documentary – it’s a raw, unflinching examination of systemic challenges facing low-income communities.

Pearson was initially drawn to the project after being approached by State Representative Wendell Gilliard to document a community meeting. What he discovered was a shocking reality that demanded broader attention. “Every day, residents were dealing with 24 to 25 rats,” Pearson recalls. “I was like, ‘There’s no way people are living like this.'”

The documentary meticulously unpacks the multifaceted challenges facing Gadsden Green residents. Flooding is a persistent nightmare, with water regularly infiltrating homes and creating uninhabitable conditions. Rat infestations have become so severe that residents report seeing multiple rodents daily, posing significant health risks. Bed bugs compound the misery, turning what should be a safe living space into a constant battle for basic human dignity.

Affordability issues sit at the core of the documentary’s narrative. Residents not only endure substandard living conditions but are often required to pay out of pocket for repairs in properties they can barely afford to live in. This creates a cycle of economic oppression that traps families in seemingly insurmountable circumstances.

“My only aim was to try to get people to care,” Pearson explains. “Not just to care, but to actually want to do something about it – at least have a conversation about what’s happening.”

The documentary goes beyond simply highlighting problems. It delves into the rich historical context of the community, exploring the demographic shifts and systemic challenges that have shaped Gadsden Green over decades. Pearson meticulously researched the area’s history, uncovering how African American communities have been systematically marginalized in housing development.

The redevelopment project currently underway presents both hope and uncertainty. The Integral Group from Atlanta plans a phased approach, building a high-rise and potentially offering residents the option to return to renovated units. However, Pearson remains cautiously optimistic, understanding the complex dynamics of urban renewal.

“Back Da Green” is particularly powerful in its humanistic approach. Rather than presenting residents as victims, Pearson portrays them as resilient individuals fighting against systemic challenges. The documentary gives voice to those who have been historically silenced, bringing their experiences to the forefront of public consciousness.

The film’s impact extends beyond mere documentation. It serves as a call to action, challenging viewers to recognize the human cost of neglected affordable housing. By highlighting the daily struggles of Gadsden Green residents, Pearson forces Charleston – and by extension, broader society – to confront uncomfortable truths about inequality and urban development.

Challenges in Production

Technical challenges in producing the documentary were significant. Pearson faced resistance from potential subjects who feared potential repercussions, including possible eviction. Many residents were hesitant to appear on camera, reflecting the vulnerability of their position.

“Social media does not make people social anymore,” Pearson observes. “It makes people introverts, and it’s hard to get people’s attention and make them care anymore.”

A future of uncertainty and hope

The documentary represents more than just a film – it’s a critical piece of social documentation. It captures a moment in Charleston’s ongoing transformation, serving as both a historical record and a contemporary critique of housing inequity.

As Charleston continues to evolve, “Back Da Green” stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of communities often overlooked. Travis Pearson has created more than a documentary; he’s crafted a mirror reflecting the city’s most pressing social challenges.

The film challenges viewers to look beyond surface-level narratives and recognize the complex human stories underlying urban development. It’s a call for empathy, understanding, and meaningful action.

A special thank you goes to Darryl Ray Griffin and Neal Brothers, whose generous funding significantly contributed to this documentary becoming a reality.

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Photo credit: Travis Pearson and Charleston Daily

Funding Supports the Construction of New Homes for Purchase by Qualified Buyers Earning Less than the Area Median Income 

Charleston, SC – Community First Land Trust (CFLT) has received $300,000 from JPMorganChase to support the creation of affordable homes in North Charleston. The funds will help CFLT build and sell affordable homes to qualified buyers in North Charleston, supporting economic mobility and wealth-building opportunities for local residents. This grant represents JPMorganChase’s first significant philanthropic investment in the Charleston area. 

The Charleston area is facing a critical shortage of affordable housing, with rising property values making homeownership unattainable for many families. With the support of JPMorganChase, CFLT aims to help bridge the homeownership gap for families earning between 60% and 80% of the area median income by constructing and rehabilitating homes and offering them at accessible prices to buyers in these income groups. This effort will help more families achieve first-time homeownership and maintain the community’s historic character. 

“With JPMorganChase’s support, we are addressing a pressing need for affordable housing in our community,” said Henrietta Woodward, Executive Director of Community First Land Trust. “By facilitating homeownership, we are not only preserving the character of our North Charleston neighborhoods, but also laying the groundwork for future generations to thrive financially.”  

In the near term, this funding has enabled CFLT to begin construction on nine homes to be built by the end of 2026 in several communities in North Charleston, with two buyers already in process. As these homes are sold at affordable prices, the proceeds will replenish the fund, allowing CFLT to continuously develop more properties. This revolving fund supports CFLT’s core mission of creating permanent affordable housing. Additionally, the grant will help CFLT grow by hiring a Homeownership Coordinator to grow community programs and assist more potential homeowners. 

“Addressing the need for affordable housing in the greater Charleston area is essential for creating pathways to economic opportunity,” said Suganthi Simon, head of Global Philanthropy for the Mid-South Region at JPMorganChase. “This investment reflects not only our commitment to growing in and serving South Carolina’s Lowcountry, but also our broader commitment to expanding opportunities for wealth building through homeownership throughout the South.” 

JPMorganChase is actively expanding its footprint in South Carolina. Since 2020, it has opened nine branches in the Charleston area, with more planned for the future. The firm employs more than 350 people throughout the state.  

About JPMorganChase 

JPMorganChase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading financial services firm based in the United States of America (“U.S.”), with operations worldwide. JPMorganChase had $4.6 trillion in assets and $357 billion in stockholders’ equity as of June 30, 2025. The Firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing and asset management. Under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands, the Firm serves millions of customers in the U.S., and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients globally. Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com. 

About Community First Land Trust 

Community First Land Trust (CFLT) is dedicated to developing and preserving affordable housing in seven environmental justice communities in North Charleston. Founded in 2017 as a key initiative of the Lowcountry Alliance for Model Communities, CFLT addresses the disproportionate environmental burdens these neighborhoods face. Our mission is to prevent gentrification and ensure sustainable revitalization without displacement. Through land acquisition, neighborhood improvements, financial literacy education, and economic opportunities, CFLT strives to create lasting positive change. Learn more at cflandtrust.org.  

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Built in 1880 with beautiful coastal waterfront views, the house that became a fixture in our lives once a week on the WB is now officially on the market for $3.25M.

Now you can relive your favorite Dawson’s Creek memories from Dawson Leery’s bedroom or back porch. Here is what you need to know:

$3,250,000

• 4 bed
• 3.5 bath
• 2,465 square feet
• 1.7 acre lot
• Realtor.com Official Listing

Property Details

A true Wilmington landmark – timeless, historic, and recognized worldwide as the real ”Dawson’s Creek House.” This waterfront home on Hewlett’s Creek represents a rare combination of architectural history, coastal lifestyle, and cultural legacy. The home rests on 1.7 private acres framed by ancient live oaks, magnolias, and pines.

The residence features four bedrooms, three & half baths, a large eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, and a spacious living room. French doors open to an expansive screened front porch that overlooks the water, an ideal setting for quiet mornings, family dinners, and views of the tide moving in and out. Outside, the property offers 134 feet of direct water frontage with a private pier and floating dock, providing easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Wrightsville Beach by boat.

The home’s enduring appeal reaches beyond its architectural character. It served as Dawson Leery’s home in all six seasons of the hit television series Dawson’s Creek. Its white facade, wide porch, and familiar dock became central to the show’s story, an instantly recognizable symbol of coastal life and coming-of-age nostalgia. Beyond its Hollywood legacy, this home has always been a gathering place for family and friends.

Evenings on the porch, fireworks reflected in the creek, and moonrises over the water are memories that have defined life here for generations. The Wilmington Plain architectural style is evident in the home’s balanced proportions, tall ceilings, and light-filled rooms designed to capture coastal breezes. Though being sold as-is, the home remains strong in character and structure, offering the next owner the opportunity to preserve and personalize a truly historic property.

Located at the end of a quiet lane just minutes from Wrightsville Beach. this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own one of Wilmington’s most beloved waterfront homes, where history, heritage, and cinematic legacy come together.

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Photo Credit: MLS and Realtor.com

The Sand Dollar Bar, located at 7 Center Street is on the market. This week, the iconic Folly Beach establishment put the building for sale which includes a residential bungalow. The price ticket for this bar just one block from the ocean is $3,000,000.

Here are the details:

• Location: 7 Center Street, Folly Beach, South Carolina
• 1 Bed, 3 Baths, 3022 sq ft
• Physical location was built in 1981
• Cost: $3,000,000
• Click HERE for full Zillow Listing

The Sand Dollar Club #7 Center Street is an excellent opportunity to own a significant piece of Folly Beach History in the heart of downtown Folly Beach only 20 minutes from Historic Charleston South Carolina. The Sand Dollar Club building is 2322 Square Feet and the bungalow behind it is 700 Square feet. There are several options for development with this property.

The new owner can leave it as it currently is with Commercial fronting Center Street and a residential building on the back of the lot. 7 Center can be a single family or multifamily residential property. The property can also be developed as fully commercial, or commercial on the first floor and residential on the 2nd floor. 7 Center Street is only 100 yards from the beach and is one of the most desirable locations on Folly.

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By Mark A Leon

Boone Hall Fright Nights returns to Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, as the state’s largest haunted event. Each fall, the historic Boone Hall Plantation transforms into a chilling playground of fog, darkness, and fear.

Event Overview

Located at 2434 N. Hwy 17, Mt. Pleasant, Boone Hall Fright Nights offers three immersive haunted attractions packed with live actors and cinematic sets. The event runs for select nights in October 2025, including October 17–19, 24–26, 31, and November 1, with gates opening at 6:30 PM and attractions running until 11 PM on weekends and 9:30 PM on Sundays.

Tickets & Pricing

• ScreamPass (General Admission): $39 — entry to all three haunted attractions
• VIP “Faster to the Fear” Pass: $75 — includes all attractions with expedited access
  All tickets are sold online only and often sell out early.

Attractions & Experience

Each attraction offers a distinct theme and scare style — past favorites include The Lodge at Willow Ridge, Freaks: World of Oddities, and the Sinister Cinema Haunted Hayride. Guests can expect a mile-long journey through outdoor trails, enclosed spaces, and interactive horror scenes featuring over 100 live performers.

Important Notes

• Not recommended for children under 12; no admission under 6
• Closed-toed shoes required
• No refunds; event held rain or shine
• Separate entrance from regular Boone Hall tours

Why Go

Known for its production value and spine-tingling creativity, Boone Hall Fright Nights has become a Lowcountry Halloween tradition. With cinematic design, professional scares, and the eerie beauty of Boone Hall’s historic grounds, it’s an unforgettable fall experience.

Tickets and full schedule available at boonehallfrightnights.com.

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Thousands of South Carolinians cross poor condition bridges every day without realizing it. A new study by Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian reveals how South Carolina stacks up to the rest of the nation when it comes to bridge conditions .  

Key Findings: 

• South Carolina is the only state in the nation with more than 1 in 4 bridges in poor condition.
• Of 9,481 bridges, 2,642 of them received a rating of 4 or lower by the Federal Highway Administration.
• The national average of bridges rated in poor condition is only 10.8% versus South Carolina’s 27.9%.

I work with Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian who published a nationwide study on the condition of bridges across the US.

Click HERE for the complete study results.

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