Author: Charleston Daily

CHARLESTON, S.C., June 12, 2025 – Following the success of its 41st annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival on February 2, the Charleston Restaurant Foundation (CRF) has donated $125,000 to support local charities and education partners. A check presentation ceremony honoring this year’s beneficiaries was held today at Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens. Recipients include Ronald McDonald House, MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, Coastal Conservation Association, Shriners Hospitals for Children, College of Charleston, Academic Magnet High School, Charleston County School of the Arts and the Culinary Institute of Charleston’s Kathy Britzius Memorial Scholarship.

“For more than 40 years, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival has brought together thousands from across the country to celebrate a distinctive part of Charleston’s rich culinary heritage,” said Charleston Restaurant Foundation President, Jonathan Kish. “But at its heart, the festival is a commitment to giving back – supporting the very community that makes the event possible and ensuring its impact extends far beyond one day each year.”

In addition to the check presentation, festival organizers joined representatives from Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, Lowcountry Land Trust, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Coastal Conservation Association of Charleston and Mount Pleasant Waterworks to expand the commemorative oyster reef behind Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens. Originally established in 2024 on Horlbeck Creek, the reef honors the partnership between the late Willie McRae, longtime owner of Boone Hall, and the late Kathy Britzius, former executive director of the Charleston Restaurant Association, who together helped launch the world-renowned festival more than four decades ago. The reef is part of a broader sustainability initiative to recycle oyster shells in local coastal waters, where they support reef restoration, bolster fisheries, prevent shoreline erosion and help mitigate flooding.

The 42nd annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival is currently scheduled for Feb. 1, 2026. Guests of the world’s largest oyster festival will enjoy over 40,000 pounds of steamed oysters for purchase at market price as well as live music, oyster shucking and eating contests, wine, a selection of domestic and imported beers, specialty cocktails, a children’s area and a food court showcasing a variety of local restaurants. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning in fall 2025.

For more information about the 2026 festival, please visit https://bit.ly/3YlZrTT. 

Charleston Restaurant Foundation 

The Charleston Restaurant Foundation (CRF) mission is to support the charitable deeds of the Lowcountry Hospitality Association, which serves the geographical area of Charleston, South Carolina. Its focus is to advocate for its member restaurants by providing them the resources they need so that their guests can savor and celebrate Lowcountry cuisine. Annual fundraising events enable the CRF to give back to the community that has so generously supported its members. To date, those fundraising efforts have enabled the CRF to donate over one million ($1,000,000) dollars to local charities. 

Photo Credit: Charleston Restaurant Foundation

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Warning Period Begins September 1, 2025

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today was joined by members of the General Assembly and state agency leaders for a ceremonial bill signing of H. 3276, the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act. The new law prohibits holding or supporting mobile devices with any part of the body while operating a vehicle.

“Distracted driving has claimed far too many lives and caused countless collisions across our state,” said Governor McMaster. “By signing this bill, we will significantly reduce the number of preventable accidents caused by distracted driving, ensuring more South Carolinians make it home safely to their loved ones.”

South Carolina’s previous texting-and-driving law prohibited composing, sending, or reading text-based communications while driving. The new hands-free law strengthens restrictions by prohibiting a driver from reading, composing, or transmitting any text, email, app interaction, or website interaction on a mobile electronic device. It also prohibits viewing movies, video games, or participating in video calls while driving. 

A “mobile electronic device” includes a cellular telephone, portable computer, GPS receiver, electronic game, or any similar stand-alone electronic device that is used to communicate, display, or record digital content.

“There are life-and-death reasons to hang up the phone. Just a few seconds can lead to tragedy,” said Representative Bill Taylor. “Over the years, education and advocacy have made driving under the influence a cultural taboo, and my hope is that distracted driving will soon be viewed the same way – reckless, dangerous, and utterly socially unacceptable.”

Violations carry a fine of $100 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses within a three-year period will result in a $200 fine and the addition of two points to the driver’s record. 

“We see more injuries and lives lost from distracted driving than from DUIs,” said Representative Tommy Pope. “We must break the habit, because it is taking lives and harming our citizens. If we can deter people from driving while distracted, we can prevent tragedy.”

Exceptions to this hands-free law include drivers who are lawfully parked or stopped, using a device in voice-activated or hands-free mode, using a mobile device for audio content like navigation, music, or podcasts without holding it, or reporting traffic accidents, hazardous conditions, or medical emergencies to a public safety official. 

The bill goes into effect on September 1, 2025, with a 180-day warning period to allow drivers time to adjust before full enforcement begins on February 28, 2026. 

“It is important to know the troopers and officers of the Department of Public Safety, working with our local law enforcement partners, will strictly enforce this law,” said S.C. Department of Public Safety Director Robert Woods. “By requiring people to put their phones down and to keep their eyes on the road, we are confident this law will prevent collisions and save lives.”

For additional information on the law, visit scdps.sc.gov/handsfree. 

Source: South Carolina Office of the Governor

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) unveiled designs for the state’s new driver’s licenses and identification cards.

The updated cards, which will begin rolling out this fall, showcase the Statehouse, the Palmetto Tree and Crescent from the state flag, the state flower – Yellow Jessamine, state bird – Carolina Wren, and state reptile – Loggerhead Sea Turtle.

The new design features more than 40 advanced security features and a new production process that incorporates laser engraving technology. These updates enhance durability and provide greater protection against counterfeiting and identity theft.

Because of the significant enhancements reflected in the new card, the SCDMV is transitioning to a centralized card issuance process using facilities certified for secure credential production — a method already used by 45 other states, the District of Columbia, and several federal agencies. 

While customers will still visit SCDMV branches in person to apply, test, and provide documentation, they will now receive a temporary certificate on-site, instead of receiving their license or ID card at the branch office. Customers will subsequently receive their license or identification card in the mail in seven to fifteen business days.

Temporary certificates are valid for up to 30 days and can be used for driving, voting, and identification where accepted. Expiring cards will be returned with a hole punch and can still be used as photo ID, where accepted, until the new card arrives. A QR code on the temporary certificate allows customers to track the status of their new card through production and mailing. 

The SCDMV will begin piloting the new cards and issuance process in late August at two Midlands locations: Columbia (Shop Road) and Lexington. A full statewide rollout is expected later in the fall.

The agency wants to stress the following points with customers:

• No action required for current cardholders — all currently issued South Carolina licenses and ID cards remain valid until their listed expiration dates.
• Applies to all SC license types – the new card design applies to all current types and classes of South Carolina licenses and ID cards which will still be offered as both REAL ID compliant cards and Not For Federal Use (non-REAL ID compliant) cards.
• Don’t wait until the last minute to get your new license — allow time for mail delivery when renewing. SCDMV sends customers renewal notices by mail 90 days prior to the expiration of their current card to help with timely renewal and customers can continue to renew their license or identification card online if eligible. 
• No price change — the cost of new licenses and ID cards remains the same and is among the lowest in the Southeastern U.S.

For more information and to view a list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding the new card design and process, visit the SCDMV webpage at https://scdmvonline.com.

Charleston, South Carolina is one of five cities where Netflix’s hit reality show “Love is Blind” is currently casting singles. Other cities in the search mix include Philadelphia, PA, Austin, TX, St. Louis, MO and New Orleans, LA.

Kinetic Content Casting announced announced earlier this week where they are seeking willing participants for the massively popular love experiment. 

“Attention all singles!! The Love is Blind casting team is actively accepting applications in five new cities! Tell your friends, family and loved ones who are ready to take the ultimate leap of faith to apply at the link in our bio!” the Instagram post reads.

Click HERE to complete an application of interest.

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When Libby inherits a wrecked 1961 Rolls Royce, she sets off on a journey to reassemble the car and pieces of the past her father left behind. In honor of her Alabama roots, she names the car after Zelda Fitzgerald. A little broken herself, Libby finds herself with a new understanding of marriage and family. Based on the real-life experiences of Elyzabeth Gregory Wilder, Zelda in the Backyard is a story of love and loss, and all the roads in between.

Zelda in the Backyard is powerful tour de force that will take you on a spectrum of emotion and enjoyment as you follow Libby through her Southern roots with a little help from a 1961 Rolls Royce named Zelda.

The following dates are available. Click HERE for tickets. For one night, Saturday, August 9 you can purchase a streaming ticket for $18.00 and watch from the comfort of your home. Click HERE to purchase a streaming ticket to the August 9th performance.

• Thursday, July 31 at 7:30pm 
• Friday, August 1 at 7:30pm 
• Saturday, August 2 at 7:30pm 
• Thursday, August 7 at 7:30pm 
• Friday, August 8 at 7:30pm 
• Saturday, August 9 at 3pm 
• Saturday, August 9 at 7:30pm 
• Thursday, August 14 at 7:30pm 
• Friday, August 15 at 7:30pm 
• Saturday, August 16 at 3pm 
• Saturday, August 16 at 7:30pm

Reminder: Pure Theatre provides FREE off-street parking in downtown Charleston, SC

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Road name honors the promise to safeguard the Angel Oak and its surrounding acres in perpetuity

Charleston, SC, July 31, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is thrilled to announce that, after receiving over 350 thoughtful submissions from the local community and approval from Charleston County, the new entryway road leading into the future Angel Oak Preserve will be named Protected Path.

Earlier this summer, the Land Trust invited the public to help shape the future of the Preserve by suggesting names for the entrance road that will guide visitors toward the beloved Angel Oak. Suggestions ranged from references to the Angel Oak’s biodiversity to nods honoring community and conservation leaders, as well as names acknowledging the Indigenous and enslaved peoples historically tied to the site. Several suggestions even highlighted the iconic white squirrels that call the 44 acres home.

“We were blown away by the care, creativity, and meaning woven into every suggestion,” said Samantha Siegel, Angel Oak Preserve director at Lowcountry Land Trust. “This has always been a community-driven project, and Protected Path reflects not only the Angel Oak’s ecological and cultural significance, but also the collective promise to safeguard this landscape for generations to come.”

Protected Path symbolizes the many storied life paths that lead to this sacred place and serves as a reminder that the Angel Oak and its surrounding acres are now protected in perpetuity.

The thoughtfully designed entryway road will pass through the future Preserve’s parking lot, providing a safer connection between Bohicket and Angel Oak roads. The pervious path will help create a more serene experience for visitors, lifting the weight of parked vehicles from the tree’s delicate root system and nurturing the relationship between people and place. Work on the Angel Oak Preserve is anticipated to begin in 2026.

Click here for more information about the Angel Oak Preserve, donate, or to receive updates.

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 coastal ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres of land since its founding in 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful local land trusts in the United States. Its work includes the stewardship of iconic public places, such as the Angel Oak Preserve, and privately owned land throughout the Lowcountry. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.

HARDEEVILLE, S.C., July 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LRT Company, a sponsor of alternative real estate investments and 1031 exchange offerings, announced it has fully subscribed its $17 million Delaware statutory trust (DST) offering, LRT Hardeeville Senior Living DST.

The all-cash DST will support the development of a 154-unit assisted living and memory care community, which will be built on 8.17 acres at 20 Island Gate Way in Hardeeville, South Carolina. The project has a long-term, 50-year, triple-net ground lease and is part of Island Gateway, a larger 82.6-acre master-planned development underway by LRT Development that is expected to include 600 multifamily residences, a care-continuum senior living campus, and 100,000 square feet of retail and self-storage space.

“This successful equity raise underscores advisors’ and investors’ confidence in our approach to ground-up development in growing markets,” said Lawrence LaBonte, founder and CEO of LRT Company. “With Hardeeville’s population rising by more than 72% since the 2020 Census, the need for modern senior housing solutions is clear, and our development is positioned to meet that demand.”

Located near Hilton Head Island, one of the Southeast’s most popular destinations, the 20 Island Gate Way project draws on strong demographic trends, regional tourism, and a surge of relocating retirees seeking quality senior living options. Hilton Head Island is located in Beaufort County, South Carolina, approximately 20 miles northeast of Savannah, Georgia, and 95 miles southwest of Charleston. The city’s population grows during the summer vacation season, with approximately 2.5 million visitors throughout each year, according to HiltonHead.com. It is within the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal, SC Metropolitan Statistical Area, with a population of approximately 232,000.

LRT recently launched LRT Coventry RI DST, an all-cash DST offering seeking to raise $20.55 million in equity from accredited investors. LRT Coventry RI DST consists of 14 acres of undeveloped land in Coventry, a suburb of Providence, Rhode Island, that is ground leased for 50 years on a triple net basis. As part of the ground lease agreement, Tiffany Laurel Reserve, a senior housing campus with 204 independent living, assisted living and memory care units, will be designed, developed and constructed on the land.

About LRT Company

LRT Company is an opportunistic development company with extensive experience in the ground-up development of multifamily and senior living communities with a focus on the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. The company is also a sponsor of Delaware statutory trust investment opportunities. The firm’s leading principals, Lawrence LaBonte and Charles Anderson, have more than 35 years each of experience in nearly every type of real estate asset, including acquiring, entitling and managing core value-add and ground-up properties as well as asset repositioning. The leadership team has built industry-wide relationships that play a key role in their business strategy for success. To learn more, visit www.lrtcompany.com.

This is not an offer to buy, nor a solicitation to sell securities. Information herein is provided for information purposes only and should not be relied upon to make an investment decision or constitute a recommendation. Offers can be made only by the confidential Private Placement Memorandum (the “PPM”) which is available upon request. This communication does not and cannot replace the PPM and is qualified in its entirety by the PPM. This communication may not be relied upon in making an investment decision related to any investment offering by the issuer, or any affiliate, or partner thereof (“Issuer”). All potential investors must read the PPM and no person may invest without acknowledging receipt and complete review of the PPM. All investing involves the risk of loss of some, or all principal invested. Past performance is not indicative of future results. With respect to any “targeted” goals and performance levels outlined herein, these do not constitute a promise of performance, nor is there any assurance that the investment objectives of any program will be attained. Securities and wholesaling services are offered through Metric Financial, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Metric Financial, LLC is not affiliated with any other entities identified in this communication. Only available in states where Metric Financial is registered. LRT Development Company, LLC (LRT) and Metric Financial are separate entities. There can be no assurance the fund will achieve targeted return or return principle.

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State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Education announced the remaining Title funds under review will be released beginning the week of July 28th.

“With these funds now released, South Carolina school districts can enter the new school year with greater confidence and a laser focus on helping every child reach their full potential. I appreciate the collaboration of Secretary McMahon and our Congressional delegation in advocating for the release of these Congressionally-appropriated funds. I also want to thank our district leaders for their measured planning and steady leadership through this period of brief uncertainty. I’m grateful to begin an opportunity-filled new school year on this strong note of partnership.” — Ellen Weaver, State Superintendent of Education

Click HERE to learn more about Ellen Weaver.

By Mark A Leon

Nestled at 91 Church Street in the heart of historic Charleston, SC, Carolina Antique Maps & Prints is one of the city’s most beloved destinations for collectors and enthusiasts of rare antiquarian maps and prints. The shop features a rich trove of original works—each over a century old—spanning subjects from natural history (think Audubon and Catesby) to iconic maps charting Charleston’s coastline and the world beyond.

Ownership & Expertise

The gallery is owned and operated by Laura N. Vardell, Charleston’s premier authority on antique maps and prints. Laura has been intimately involved with Carolina Prints since 1985, fostering a passion for the art and science of cartography, as well as natural history illustration. Under Laura’s stewardship, the gallery is recognized as the oldest such business in Charleston specializing in genuine antiquarian prints and maps, with her expertise celebrated by both locals and international visitors.

History of the Shop

The shop traces its roots to the early 1960s, when it began dealing in antique paintings and prints. In 2001, Carolina Antique Maps & Prints, as it is known today, found its permanent home on historic Church Street, moving into the Catfish Row building (formerly Cabbage Row). This district is renowned for its cultural and artistic legacy, making it a fitting location for such a specialized gallery.

Laura’s tenure since the mid-1980s has made her a fixture in the city’s art and history scene, and she is known for her warm hospitality and willingness to share her encyclopedic knowledge. Visitors find not just rare items, but stories—about Charleston, about the artists, and about the evolution of printmaking and cartography through the centuries.

Offerings

• Antique maps from around the world, with a special emphasis on Charleston, the Carolinas, and the Southeast.

• Natural history prints, including birds, botanicals, marine life, and fauna.

• Original engravings by masters such as John James Audubon, Mark Catesby, and John Gould.

• Architectural and decorative prints.

Hours of Operation

• Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00AM – 4:00PM

• Sunday & Monday: Closed

Hours may occasionally vary, so it’s recommended to call ahead or check for the latest updates if planning a visit.

Carolina Antique Maps & Prints isn’t just a gallery—it’s a living chronicle of Charleston’s ties to art and discovery, and a testament to the enduring allure of vintage cartography and illustration. Whether you’re seeking a rare map, a beautifully preserved botanical, or simply a conversation with one of Charleston’s most knowledgeable art historians, this unique shop on Church Street awaits.

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By Mark A Leon

When Charleston’s thermometer spikes, staying cool indoors is the best way to enjoy the city. Here’s a roundup of top indoor destinations—covering ice skating, trampoline parks, arcades, museums, and the acclaimed South Carolina Aquarium—to keep the whole family entertained and chilled out.

1. Glide Across the Carolina Ice Palace

Home to two full-size NHL ice rinks, the Carolina Ice Palace is Charleston’s premier venue for public ice skating year-round. All ages and abilities are welcome, with skate rentals and “skate assist” gear available for beginners. The venue also features a pro shop and snack concessions. Skating sessions offer a refreshing escape from the muggy Lowcountry air—no prior experience needed.

2. Bounce at Trampoline Adventure Parks

Charleston boasts multiple indoor trampoline arenas where you can jump, flip, and soar:

• Flight Adventure Park offers 40,000sqft with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, and special “kids flight” hours. It’s a lively option for families and thrill-seekers.

• Sky Zone and Summit Adventure Park also provide large jump zones and obstacle courses, ideal for everything from playdates to parties and rainy day fun.

3. Play Big at Local Arcades

Arcade lovers can flock to Charleston Fun Park, where there’s a huge indoor selection of more than 50 games—all ticketless for convenience. Try your luck on everything from Connect 4 Hoops to retro classics, plus there’s often a prize redemption counter for big winners.

Other arcades—like MIX and Garage 75—add variety with pinball, duckpin bowling, and classic amusements, catering to both kids and adults.

4. Explore Charleston’s Museums

Charleston’s cultural scene shines indoors, with several air-conditioned museums appealing to a variety of interests:

• The Charleston Museum (America’s oldest – Founded in 1773) dives deep into Lowcountry history, natural science, and hands-on exhibits.

• Gibbes Museum of Art captivates with rotating and permanent collections of Southern art, photography, and sculpture.

• Families will enjoy the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, filled with interactive, educational fun for little ones.

• International African American Museum offers immersive exhibits tracing historic and cultural journeys that shaped the region.

Bonus: Mace Brown Museum of National History, located at 202 Calhoun Street is a free experience provided by the College of Charleston that lets you travel back billions of years to explore our planets origins.

5. Immerse Yourself at the South Carolina Aquarium

Set on Charleston’s waterfront, the South Carolina Aquarium is a must for animal lovers and marine explorers. Nearly all of its exhibits are climate-controlled indoors, featuring:

• A two-level Great Ocean Tank with sharks, rays, and hundreds of fish.

• The hands-on Boneyard Beach Touch Tank, where guests of all abilities can pet sea stars, sea urchins, hermit crabs, and even sharks.

• The Sea Turtle Care Center, where you can observe real-time rehabilitation of rescued turtles—a unique highlight that inspires conservation.

With daily animal encounters, virtual reality experiences, and new interactive displays, the aquarium keeps visitors of all ages engaged and cool.

Pro Tips

• Book ahead or check online hours during summer—these spots are popular for locals and tourists seeking a respite from the heat.

• Many venues offer group discounts or birthday packages, making them great for celebrations.

• Don’t forget museum memberships for regular local families—it’s a cost-effective way to explore again and again!

Whether you’re a local or visiting Charleston during peak summer, these indoor experiences offer the perfect way to stay comfortable, learn something new, and have a blast while the temperature soars outside.