Charleston Daily

Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.

I Thank The Lord – Original Poem

November 14, 2017

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

By Mark A. Leon

I thank the Lord for the moments I have had
From birth to death, I have been rewarded with the greatness of existence

A fortitude of love disguised as moments of simplicity

I heard the music awaken my senses as a newborn without logic; without reason; without understanding
I found a home in the arms of a stranger, soon to become mom

I thanked the Lord who opened my eyes to awareness and took my hand in a gesture of acceptance
I met wonderful things along the way

Pierced to accept my own mortality
Gifted by these words funneled from my soul to this paper
From the ruins to the skyscrapers, my awe is in the rising sun

A daily message of the charitable contribution of existence
Turn around

Thank those before; be humbled by those that follow

I want to sing a song to this beating heart; loud and spirited
Alone I rejoice
Never to be isolated

Racing to the bottom of a valley of broken dreams, I stop
This is only a beginning
Each awakening, my eyes see once again and feel the energy of a rebirth plunge through the porous skin and impregnate my conscience with vitality and fervor

I thank the Lord
It is in this ritual of salvation I find nirvana
Deep breath and exhale

What is your Charleston Story? We want to hear your stories of inspiration, courage and celebration

November 14, 2017

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Do you have a great Charleston story? There are so many inspiring stories in the Holy City. So many simple acts of kindness and extraordinary acts of courage and often unrecognized. Part of our mission at Charleston Daily is to recognize those that contribute to the story. We all have chapters in our life worth a voice. It is time you shared your story.

Have any of these happened to you that you want to scream it from a rooftop to celebrate and inspire?

A loved one returned home after being away
A surgery saved a life
A selfless act of generosity
A soldier returned home safely
A great academic achievement
A skill that should be shared
An incredible business story
An act of incredible courage
A love story for the ages
A family member that inspires you…….

Email us at mark@charlestondaily.com and tell us a little about your story. We want to do our best to help others hear it.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Residential Real Estate Sales and Prices Continue Level Pace in Charleston Region

November 14, 2017

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

CHARLESTON, SC—(November 13, 2017) According to preliminary data released today by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors® (CTAR) 1,316 homes sold in October in the region at a median price of $250,080, reflective of a 2% boost in sales and 4% growth in median sales price as compared to last October, when 1,287 homes sold at a median price of $240,000.

The year-to-date pace of growth in sales and median price tightened slightly again but still show healthy levels of increases over last year. 15,465 homes have sold in the region at a median price of $250,000 thus far in 2017. Sales volume has increased about 3% compared to 2016, with homes selling for about 4% more than they did at this point last year.

“As we reported last month, the pace of sales has slowed, but our market is still healthy and active—well-priced homes are moving off-market and there’s still considerable interest in our region. We have yet to realize the real estate impacts of huge economic investments like the Volvo plant” said 2017 CTAR President Dave Sansom. “Inventory has been a challenge in Charleston for awhile, and after years of significant price growth we’re seeing affordability issues really take hold. It is making it more difficult for some people to find a home that they can afford and that serves their needs” said Sansom. “We believe that sales would be even stronger if there were more inventory available in key price ranges and locations where there is little to nothing available currently. We’re continuing our work with local municipalities and legislators to help them understand the importance of smart growth and development that will best serve our local communities and residents alike” he concluded.

5,320 homes were listed as “active” for sale in the Charleston Trident Multiple Listing Service (CTMLS) at the end of the month, slightly higher than last month but about 11% fewer homes available than in 2016.

September Adjustment

Preliminary data showed 1,422 homes sold in September in the region at a median price of $256,335. Adjusted numbers now show 1,424 sales at a median price $256,000.

Berkeley County

365 properties sold at a median price of $225,000 in Berkeley County in October. Year-to-date, single-family home sales have increased about 5% in the County, with buyers paying about 4.5% more than they did a year ago. Condo and townhome sales have increased 27% with a 12% increase in price.

There are currently 1,080 residential properties for sale in Berkeley County—935 single-family homes and 145 condos/townhomes.

Find Berkeley County area reports here.

Charleston County

622 properties sold at a median price of $316,119 in Charleston County in October. Year-to-date, single-family home sales volume is flat in the County, with buyers paying about 6% more than they did a year ago. Condo and townhome sales and prices have both increased by about 5%.

There are currently 2,839 residential properties for sale in Charleston County—2,201 single-family homes and 638 condos/townhomes.

Find Charleston County area reports here.

Dorchester County

274 properties sold at a median price of $218,000 in Dorchester County in October. Year-to-date, single-family home sales have increased less than 0.5% in the County, with buyers paying about 6% more than they did a year ago. Condo and townhome sales have increased 4% with a 3% increase in price.

There are currently 786 residential properties for sale in Dorchester County—729 single-family homes and 57 condos/townhomes.

Find Dorchester County area reports here.

Media Contact:
Meghan Byrnes Weinreich | 843.793.5208
Marketing and Communications Director
Charleston Trident Association of REALTORS

What Are You Thankful For Charleston?

November 11, 2017

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

We have hit that magical time of year where we begin to reflect on the things that are truly important in life. A time for thanks, giving, sharing, family and friends. It is a time when smiles overshadow frowns, goodness conquers bad and we count our blessings for the little things that make it all worthwhile.

With Thanksgiving less than two weeks away, we wanted to look at some of the things we are thankful for in the Lowcountry. We would love to hear your comments about the things, people and places that you are thankful for.

Why Am I Thankful for Charleston?

A cold pint of beer on Shem Creek
Surfing at the Washout
The open arms and faith of the Charleston churches
The majestic sunrises of the Lowcountry
The Rooftop at Vendue just as the sun sets over the St. Philips Church
A glass of French red wine and a baguette sandwich at Fast and French
Remarkable live theatre from Threshold, Midtown and Woolfe Street
The Charleston Performing Arts Center’s commitment to theatre and education with the James Island Youth Theatre Program
Our food trucks and the commitment and hard work to making us smile on so many street corners and festivals
The unconditional love for our dogs and cats
The warm sand and ocean water of our beaches in the Spring and Summer
Commitment to providing food and shelter to those less fortunate
The preservation of history
The Cooper River Bridge Run and the Turkey Day Gobble Wobble
The dedicated medical professionals at MUSC, Roper St. Francis and Trident Medical Centers
Sailing in the Harbor
The peaceful escape of the South Carolina Aquarium
College of Charleston, The Citadel and Charleston Southern for training some of the finest young minds here in the Lowcountry
The Charleston County Park system for bringing nature to us
The Festival of Lights – Keeping tradition alive
The Charleston RiverDogs for continuing to harness great baseball talent and giving us a reason to go to the park
Patriots Point for reminding us of the importance and horrors of the Vietnam War
Deep Water Vineyards and Firefly – Where else can you get wine, spirits, a goat, a pig, a swinging tire and great Southern live music?
Yoga!! – Yoga and beach; yoga and beer; yoga and sunsets; yoga and baseball; Bikram yoga
Movies on the beach on Folly and Movies at Waterfront Park
Shagging at the pier
Boba Tea at Tapio
Late night chicken and waffles at Early Bird Diner
Seared Scallops and a Washington State Pinot Noir while watching the sunset at Morgan Creek Grill
Happy Hour seven days a week at Barsa and still free parking at a restaurant downtown
Sandwiches done right and with love at Persimmon Café
Falafel at Charlie’s Grocery
MUSC Urban Farm where rosemary, lemons, sunflowers and horticultural education come together
Sun-dried tomato and goat cheese turnover at Wild Flour on Spring Street
Feeding the ducks and birds at Hampton Park
Charleston Food and Wine Festival – That needs no explaining
Charleston Music Hall, Charleston Music Farm, Charleston Pour House and all the other great venues that continue to raise the bar of great music in the Lowcountry
Cup Coffee – Some of the best coffee I have ever had and they are local
Palmetto Brewery for staying downtown
Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge for continuing to be a sight for sore eyes
Farmer’s Markets for homemade pasta and soap
Marina view and breakfast burrito at the Marina Variety Shop Restaurant
Wine and sunset at Dock Street Park
Laying out at White Point Garden and people watching
Rainbow of acceptance and community in Park Circle, North Charleston
Oak Trees of Charleston and Angel Oak
Concerts at Riverfront Park and the new High Water Festival Tradition
Patriotism
Sea Turtles
Sunset at Bowen’s Island Restaurant over steamed oysters
Oyster Roasts with chili and S’mores
Bert’s Market open 24 hours 365 days a year
Gamecock and Tiger Football

What are you thankful and grateful for in Charleston? Comment below

Threshold Repertory’s “The Elephant Man” Brings Humanity to the Stage

November 7, 2017

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

The latest production from Threshold Repertory Theatre exposes the deepest roots of humanity and self-realization in a poignantly emotional retelling of the story of John Merrick, whom history deemed the Elephant Man. A being so grotesque to other’s that his life was showcased as a freak show act until an unlikely relationship with Doctor Frederick Treves was forged.

This show was visualized with courage by Director Jay Danner. Theatre is a personal extension of oneself. It is the crafting of imagination and vision to create a reality that tells a story and derives personal connection from the audience. Few directors in Charleston push boundaries to tackle highly emotional and liberal subject matter with confidence and brilliance like Jay. He is a gift to the Charleston Theatre community and though he may risk alienating a conservative body of patrons, his work is nothing short of memorable.

From my initial entrance into his world with the 2016 production of “Bent” to this latest production, Jay Danner’s work needs to be seen and experienced. He is a patriarch to the arts and his interpretation of “The Elephant Man” is a testament to his fine body of work.

Two facets of the show that left a mark were the character of John Merrick (The Elephant Man) void of make-up showing his clusters of mushy skin protruding from his body and the Shakespearean silent film approach to introduce each scene of this one hour and fifty- minute single act play.

Patrick Arnheim, as the lead character of John Merrick, continues to be one of the best local acting talents in the Lowcountry. His vulnerability and innocence is so penetrating as he scales back the layers of his hideous form to uncover the man inside. With the same desires and passions, he begins to transform those around him by opening their eyes to an inner beauty that most of us never see in others. Even without make-up, his body movements and posture, allow the audience to suspend reality and see him as he was.

Though tragic in nature, this play takes on an aura of love and companionship as the relationships develop on stage. In a way, there is a theme that so many are lost and truly only want to be loved, even if it is by only one or two others. That was a message I took away long after the final line was recited.

Center stage back wall launched each scene with a brief interlude of words reminding us of the days of Chaplin and Keaton in the silent film era. As the stage lights dimmed and the white cloudy words appeared, it seemed like a human cinema reel on stage.

Kelley Swindall played the role of the actress Mrs. Kendal. As the first woman to find comfort in John and become the token of his affections, Kelley demonstrated an eclectic range of sassiness, humor and empathy. She and Frederick showed the greatest personal transformations through their very personal connection to John. It was a strong performance and a wonderfully powerful female presence to this show.

David Wohl, Brent Fox, Addison Dent, Sarah Smith and Sienna Goering all played multiple roles with poise and range. From a Duchess to a Congo Pinhead to a circus manager, each showed tremendous talent on stage supporting the ensemble cast.

History and science have ways of shocking us. John Merrick was a medical oddity, rejected by society and left for nothing more than a circus freak show act. Humanity finally stepped in and allowed him to live out the last few years of his life with dignity and for a few brief moments, love.

Threshold Repertory Theatre has brought to the stage an inspired play and one local theatre goers should take advantage of and see.

Ticket Information – The Elephant Man – Playing through November 19th

Pregnant Striped Tiger Shark Tagged Off South Carolina Coast – Follow its Travels and Progress

November 6, 2017

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Harry-Etta is the fifteenth tiger shark to be tagged by SCDNR biologists in South Carolina waters.

The distinctly striped tiger shark is one of the largest predators in coastal South Carolina waters – and now you can follow the movements of one through her pregnancy.

This week, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) biologists working in St. Helena Sound caught and satellite tagged “Harry-Etta,” a female tiger shark clocking in at 12″2′ long and 820 pounds. By providing real-time data as she cruises Southeastern waters, Harry-Etta could help researchers answer important questions about how long sharks of this little-studied species live, how often they reproduce, and where and when they migrate.

Two years ago, the same SCDNR team affixed a satellite to Harry-Etta’s predecessor – another female tiger shark, dubbed “Harry-Ette,” whose satellite tag was also sponsored by the Harry Hampton Wildlife Fund. In South Carolina, adult tiger sharks typically range between 10 to 13 feet in length, with females reaching larger sizes than males.

For several years, SCDNR biologists have worked to better understand these large predators through collaborative work with the shark-tagging nonprofit OCEARCH, charter captain Chip Michalove, and College of Charleston researchers. The work has shed light on the importance of South Carolina’s southern sounds (particularly St. Helena and Port Royal Sounds) as foraging and potentially nursing grounds for tiger sharks.

“This is actually the third time we’ve encountered Harry-Etta,” said SCDNR biologist Bryan Frazier, who leads the agency’s shark-tagging efforts. “She was tagged with a conventional tag in 2013 by charter captain Chip Michalove and again by SCDNR in 2015 in Port Royal Sound. This time, we were able to apply a SPOT tag, allowing us to follow her movements over the next year.”

SPOT (Smart Position or Temperature) tags are small devices secured to a shark’s dorsal fin that track movement by sending signals to a satellite, or “pings,” each time they’re above water for more than 90 seconds. Like humans, each shark is unique in their habits of movement – so some animals ping frequently, while others surface only rarely.

There was something else noteworthy about Harry-Etta this time around, Frazier said: “We also confirmed she was pregnant by ultrasound, so we can gain insight into what habitats she uses during gestation.”

SCDNR biologist Bryan Frazier affixes the satellite tag to Harry-Etta’s dorsal fin as College of Charleston’s Gorka Sancho keeps the shark secured. (Photo: Taylor Main/SCDNR)

Harry-Etta is the fifteenth tiger shark Frazier’s team has fitted with a satellite transmitter in South Carolina – but the first one known to be pregnant. In recent years, fresh mating wounds found on other tagged tiger sharks have led the team to believe that South Carolina’s southern sounds and nearshore waters could be important locations for tiger shark reproduction.

About Harry-Etta’s name: The Hampton Wildlife Fund was established in 1981 and named for South Carolina conservationist Harry R.E. Hampton. Dedicated to the conservation and protection of the state’s natural resources, the Fund has now sponsored two satellite tags for tracking tiger sharks, both of which have been named in Harry Hampton’s honor.

“I’m happy our board, led by Chair Deidre Menefee, unanimously voted to fund a second tag,” said Hampton Wildlife Fund executive director Jim Goller. “We’re proud to support SCDNR in their efforts to study these magnificent creatures that frequent South Carolina waters. I fish St. Helena Sound where Harry-Etta was tagged, making this tiger very special to me. We are all super excited and can’t wait to follow her on the OCEARCH website.” Learn more about the Fund online.

You can follow Harry-Etta’s travels in real time on the OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker, available online and for download on Apple and Android platforms.

(Photo: Taylor Main/SCDNR)

Photography

Charleston Day Trip: Escape to Autumn in Columbia, SC by the Congaree River

November 6, 2017

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

Just about two hours from Charleston between West Columbia and Columbia, South Carolina is the Congaree River and the Congaree River Bridge System. On both sides of the river are scenic walking paths that combine beauty, history, fitness and the illuminating views of Autumn and the changing of the colors of the leaves.

These remarkable paths are a haven for runners, walkers, lovers and artists. Or if you are more the adventurer type, you can find yourself kayaking on the river.

Start your day at Cafe Strudel and try their famous “Hangover Hashbrowns” featured in Southern Living Magazine and then walk down the steps of the amphitheater on the river and begin your journey. For locals, the amphitheater offers free concerts on Friday nights in the Spring and Summer.

While you are out, here are a few I Spy items:

Frog Garbage Can
HIstoric Round Brick Houses
Kayakers
Weeping Willow Trees
Autumn Colors
Herons
Bridge Art

Wear some comfortable shoes and enjoy this beautiful fall getaway.

Here are a few images to entice you.

Photography

Charleston Photographer Spotlight: The Mystery of Kevin Holliday Photography

November 5, 2017

by Charleston Daily 3 Comments

“My goal has always been to CREATE rather than CAPTURE. I have always aimed to make a world that simply does not necessarily exist the way we see it when we walk outside.” –

Kevin Holliday Bio:

Kevin Holliday is an internationally recognized, awarded fine art black and white photographer. His focus is primarily on architecture (both buildings and bridges) as well as long-exposure minimalism. Kevin’s photography is noted for its attention to simple small elements, leading lines and negative space, which he attributes to his early roots as a graphic designer. His work features a strong vision within primary imagery and is often best represented within a series rather than the single image. Kevin is also known locally for mentoring up-and-coming photographers where he helps to develop the technical aspects of proper exposure, breaking the typical rules of composition and lighting with a precision versus perfection mentality.

For Kevin, it’s not just the capture of the image that matters; he has always focused on making the final “perfect print” the absolute goal and is hands-on in all regards to this effort… from capture to the final framed image ready to be hung, he has been the only artisan involved. With the “perfect print” philosophy in mind, you can rest assured if you have a limited edition print by Kevin Holliday, it has been handled by only himself from the capture to your possession.

KEVIN HOLLIDAY PHOTOGRAPHY – DANIEL ISLAND, SC

Official Kevin Holliday Website: www.KevinHollidayPhoto.com
Official Kevin Holliday Facebook Page: www.Facebook.com/KevinHollidayPhoto
Kevin Holliday Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinhollidayphoto/

Undiscovered Charleston: Mosquito Beach and Restaurants

November 4, 2017

by Charleston Daily 6 Comments

The Gullah community has a proud heritage and celebrates with pride. Their history of culture, family and food are an integral part of the Charleston area. There are some very celebrated areas of Gullah Food and lifestyle in Charleston, but just off of Folly Road, lies a community whose history dates back a few hundred years. Generations has lived on these streets and homes that for some have been forgotten by time, but still honored in tradition. We want to bring awareness to some of the truly great undiscovered parts of Charleston.

Where Can I Find Mosquito Beach?

Down the ways a bit on Sol Legare, there is a little spot that most do not know about, but truly gives you a feel of the Lowcountry and that is Mosquito Beach.

The directions are simple: If you are heading to Folly Beach, turn right of Folly Road just after the Harris Teeter onto Sol Legare. After about 2 miles you will see Mosquito Beach Road. Make a left and you will enter a small coastal road with gorgeous sunrises, scenic waterways and a few great restaurants including Suga Shack, Island Breeze and D&F.

There, you can enjoy home style cooking with a smile and maybe hear a few stories of the history of this area. As one of the signs says, “Come in Peace, Leave in Peace”. That says it all.

Hint: Follow the wooden signs painted in the vibrant Gullah colors.

Monmouth Real Estate Announces New Acquisition In Charleston, SC

November 3, 2017

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

FREEHOLD, N.J., Nov. 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation (NYSE: MNR) today announced the acquisition of a brand new 121,683 square foot industrial building located at 1892 Anfield Road, N. Charleston, SC at a purchase price of $21,872,170. The property is net-leased for 15 years to Federal Express Corporation. The building is situated on approximately 16.2 acres.

Michael P. Landy, President and CEO, commented, “We are very pleased to announce this acquisition which is ideally located near the Charleston International Airport. Over the past several years we have strategically positioned our portfolio to benefit from the supply chain’s shift toward the eastern seaboard as the result of the recently completed Panama Canal expansion. The Port of Charleston has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of this change and we expect this region’s strong economic growth to continue for many years to come.”

Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation, founded in 1968, is one of the oldest public equity REITs in the U.S. The Company specializes in single tenant, net-leased industrial properties, subject to long-term leases, primarily to investment-grade tenants. Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation is a fully integrated and self-managed real estate company, whose property portfolio consists of 109 properties containing a total of approximately 18.9 million rentable square feet, geographically diversified across 30 states. In addition, the Company owns a portfolio of REIT securities.

SOURCE Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corporation