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.

Mount Pleasant, SC

Mount Pleasant Author Inspires Young Readers with New Hybrid Graphic Young Adult Novel

September 2, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

“My alarm clock wailed like an electronic banshee, foretelling not my death, but the next worst fate: My first day of high school. I hit “snooze” and snoozed. Every year, my parents and teachers promised a better year than the last, but it never came. When would things change? Senior year? College? First job? Marriage? Retirement? Nursing home?” Opening dialogue of new hybrid graphic young adult novel Me, Myself, and I’m Lost by Marc Kruza

When Marc Kruza, author, musician and computer geek set out to write a 347-page work, he had no idea how far the creative process would take him. From concept of characters to story line; conflict to relationships; emotions to creative imagination, Marc took his story to a realm outside of our core imagination.

This Mount Pleasant based resident stretched his creative limits to script a generational story of the struggles of youth, the captivating magic of imagination and the suspense of life’s roadblocks.

Collaborating with illustrator Kenneth Leinaar, Marc took the character of Matt, a geeky young adult about to embark on the biggest challenge of his life, high school, and created a world where reality and fantasy become one. From the front door of the high school to the space prison fighting pit, the reader is taken to a world of adventure while still tackling the same issues that face youth today.

Marc taps into the mind of a new generation provides a very entertaining piece of literature that many can and will relate to.

We took a candid opportunity to ask Marc a few questions about his first novel, tap into the mind of the author and learn about this new creative force in the Charleston community.

Author Marc Kruza Interview

CD: Describe yourself in five words.

MK: Author, musician, computers, fitness geek.

CD: How does your personal and professional life play into the inspiration of your characters and stories?

MK: Matt Kretzer, my novel’s main character, is largely drawn from my own teenage tribulations. The real drawing part, though, is a talent I can’t claim on my résumé. Matt’s has high school highs and lows, and he learns to illustrate graphic novels, surf, handle stress and deal with social change better (and faster) than I did.

CD: Who is your primary audience and why?

MK: Young adult and middle grade readers are my primary audience. They will understand, relate and connect with the characters and plot of this novel. The personality attributes of each generation changes, but the challenges faced remain.

CD: Why is writing an important part of your life?

MK: Writing lets me both entertain and enlighten my readers on the coming of age, as well as the coming and going of childhood friendships.

CD: Who do you model your characters from?

MK: My characters are modeled from family and friends throughout my life. Who we are is shaped by those around us. We are sponges that absorb and are influenced by those that come in and out of our lives. That was important in the character development part of the process.

CD: What do you want your readers to take away from your novel?

MK: Adolescence is only a temporary condition. Asking for help in times of severe psychological stress is a sign of strength, not weakness.

CD: What future storylines should we expect from you?

MK: Matt has three years of high school left, which means at least three more novels!

After completing the first installment, we are looking forward to seeing how the next three years of Matt’s life plays out.

To learn more about Marc and to purchase his graphic novel, please go to:

Purchase: Me, Myself and I’m Lost

Marc Kruza Bio

Lowcountry

Porter-Gaud School Class of 1969 – Looking Back at Our Past

August 29, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

You find the most unexpected treasures when you aren’t even looking.

My first indication, when I found The Polygon 1969 Porter-Guad School Yearbook was, why would anyone throw this away? Had someone passed away? Did they not want to think back on the past? So many questions, ran through my mind. In the end, I saw a 100 plus page look at Charleston’s history.

We imagine many of these faces still reside and have been contributing members of the community and for that we thank you. As we thumbed through the pages, we were astonished at the level of education of the faculty, the reminders of youth and the trends of almost 50 years ago, that we look back upon now fondly.

Take a seat and let us walk you through a moment 47 year ago, when a ground of young adults had their whole lives to look forward to. From the hair, to the sense of camaraderie, Porter-Gaud reminds us that school is a valued part of our lives.

Maybe you might see a familiar face or two along the way.

The Polygon 1969 – Porter-Gaud School Yearbook – Charleston, South Carolina

We always remember the dedication - The one that inspired so many — We always remember the dedication – The one that inspired so many

Back then we put home addresses on the senior profiles

Religious Life was a part of the daily routine

Miss Polygon and Miss Runner Up - Rumor is: Miss Polygon resides on Sullivan's Island — Miss Polygon and Miss Runner Up – Rumor is: Miss Polygon resides on Sullivan’s Island

This is the way a football coach should look

Look at the extra-curricular activities. If he doesn't manage a hedge fund now... — Look at the extra-curricular activities. If he doesn’t manage a hedge fund now…

We had to include "Lumberjack" Jackson — We had to include “Lumberjack” Jackson

Of course we have "Hebrew" — Of course we have “Hebrew”

We hope you enjoyed this look back. Now it is time to enter the time machine and return to present time.

Mount Pleasant, SC

Mount Pleasant Middle School Teacher Receives Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

August 28, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Media Release

Thomas C. Cario Middle School Teacher Receives Presidential Award

Charleston, SC — This week, President Obama named 213 mathematics and science teachers as recipients of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. One of CCSD’s own, Rebecca Strong, a sixth grade science teacher at Cario Middle, was among those to earn this distinction.

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) is given to outstanding K-12 science and mathematics teachers from across the country and is among one of the highest forms of recognition a K-12 math or science teacher can earn. Winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process at the state level.

Each nomination year of the award alternates between teachers in kindergarten through 6^thgrade (2014), and those teaching 7^ththrough 12^thgrades (2015). Strong was one of only two educators selected as a recipient for 2014 in the state of South Carolina.

Strong is in her 28^th year of teaching, having first taught at Laing Middle for ten years, followed by Cario Middle since it opened in 1999. Strong has taught both sixth and seventh grade science, and is now teaching the children of her former students as a result of her long time service in education.

Throughout the course of her career, Strong has led students in various science clubs and has served as science department chairperson for over 14 years. She has also served on school leadership and steering committees, and was involved in the planning of the South Carolina Waterfowl Association’s Camp Leopold. Strong was named the Cario Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2002.

Strong graduated from Kent State University with a B.S. in Biology and a M.A.T. in Secondary Science. She is National Board Certified in Early Adolescence Science and is a member of several organizations including the National Science Teachers Association, the South Carolina Science Council, and the Charleston Reading Council.

“What a tremendous honor it is to have this award bestowed upon one of our educators,” said CCSD Superintendent Gerrita Postlewait.“We are very proud of Rebecca and her exemplary leadership and practices in the classroom.”

Winners of the PAEMST receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation to be used at their discretion. Strong and other awardees are invited to Washington, D.C., on September 8 for an awards ceremony, as well as educational and celebratory events, and visits with members of the Administration.

Rebecca Strong Bio

Thomas C. Cario Middle School Website

Contact: Andy Pruitt 843-937-6583

Welcome to the Fantasy World of Charleston’s Nathan Durfee – Artist and Dreamer

August 27, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

In 2009, Sarah Harbin was enjoying an Art Walk with friends and like many, a Charleston Art Walk is not complete without a stop down the historic corridor to East Bay Street to Robert Lange Studios. Known for its uncompromising excellence in identifying talent that is without limit and exploding in creative flow, Robert Lange Studios has become the model for art, not just in Charleston, but throughout the country. Their culture of acceptance in the art community has brought in admirers from all walks of life including Kevin Costner. As Sarah soaked in the diverse range of exhibits, she was taken by one particular piece that was hanging in the single use restroom. Robert Lange Studios has a practice of highlighting an artist in the restroom area. As she absorbed the detail, she knew the artwork was already “mine in my heart.” She purchased it and today it is still a very meaningful part of her home.

That artist was Nathan Durfee. Today, Sarah’s painting has very defined meaning and that young artist, whose work she purchased, was awarded the Best Visual Artist Award four consecutive years from 2010 through 2013 by Charleston City Paper. This has been a long journey for the creative mind of Nathan Durfee. This isn’t a rags to riches story. This is a creative talent in the art community that has a wonderful story to share. Through his images and colors, Nathan creates a visual world that has taken flight and mesmerized children and adults throughout the Charleston community.

When I met Nathan at Kudu Coffee downtown, he was working diligently on a new piece for his father. one that would compliment a birthday gift of a new bike. I wanted to break the ice quickly and dig into the personality of this artist.

“What inspires you Nathan?”

He replied, “eavesdropping, other artists and brilliant people talking.”

Quite a profound list uttered without hesitation. This opened the door to a very candid few hours with this middle child who studied illustration in Savannah, GA. His playful, giddy laugh showed his childish innocence and proves very important in his works which combine adult subject matter and elegant landscapes. This careful tapestry of beautiful tragedy incorporates the bittersweet imperfections of life with elegance and sensitivity.

Many find that moment when inspiration hits and they can pinpoint that exact time when they just knew. For Nathan, he never had that moment. He summarized his career as “scattering a bread crumb trail” until he found his destiny. Now featured in Charleston, Savannah and New Orleans, Nathan’s work has found a niche in the Southeast. His style and approach is one of spontaneity. Many approach art with the idea of meticulously preparation, thinking though each brush stroke mentally for hours paint is lain on canvas. Not Nathan. He takes an idea and begins. It is refreshing to see him go from mind to creation so quickly and grow the idea with each minute and hour of passing time.

Like many creative types, ego does play into the personality type and is critical to pushing oneself to seek out their inner greatness. Nathan felt this early in this career, even when he was struggling to find an audience, Over time, he has developed a resistance because having too much of an ego could not help him become a better artist. Nathan also, on occasion will listen to patrons talk about his work and gain insight into how others perceive his style, characters and image depictions. It is part of his continuous learning curve.

Nathan, who shows tremendous maturity at this early stage in his career has been greatly influenced by Joe Sorren, Illustrator Phil Hale and Illustrator Dave Mckean . If you look closely and compare the colors and styles, you can see how the influence has rubbed off on Nathan.

Over the course of our discussion, we talked about memorable commissioned works, great customer experiences and future plans. On December 5, 2014, Nathan and Robert Lange Studios will be unveiling an eagerly awaited new collection.

“Nathan, if you are in front of a young student, whose life ambition is to become an artist, what advice would you give?”

Don’t get discouraged
Don’t get cocky
Stay in between

This is exemplary advice from an artist whose style is already influencing other. For now, we see many years of amazing work ahead that will gain further exposure and further accolades for this Charleston talent.

Nathan Durfee Official Website

Charleston, SC Media Release: City Launches Boards, Committees and Commissions Online Platform

August 23, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Media Release:
City of Charleston, South Carolina
50 Broad Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Telephone (843) 724-3746

FAX (843) 724-3734
John J. Tecklenburg – Mayor
Office of Communications

City Launches Boards, Committees and Commissions Online Platform

Charleston, S.C. – With more than 40 boards and commissions, the city of Charleston has long encouraged independent citizen oversight and participation in local government—at least in theory. But with today’s debut of Boards+, a new city website that allows citizens to view the members, duties and actions of city boards, committees and commissions and to apply for open positions as they become available, that theory is now becoming a reality for residents throughout the Charleston area.
―This new system is a huge step forward for transparency, accountability and citizen action here in the city of Charleston,‖ said Mayor John Tecklenburg, who’s expected to formally unveil the platform at tonight’s meeting of City Council. ―By reinventing and demystifying the boards and commissions process, it opens up a whole area of city government that’s been locked away in musty folders and file cabinets for too long, and ensures that more of our citizens will be able to have a real say in their own future, and in the future life of our city.

Boards+ can be accessed on the City website homepage under the ―Government‖ tab or at www.charleston-sc.gov/boards. Residents who do not have access to the internet can call 843-724-3739 for assistance.

The cloud-based tools will improve the city’s efficiency by simplifying the process of managing appointments, advertising opportunities to serve and the application process for boards, committees and commissions.

The platform will remain in beta for the first several months, as improvements continue to be made. The public is encouraged to make recommendations and suggest improvements to the platform.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jack O’Toole, Director of Communications
Media Relations/Public Information
(843) 518-3228
otoolej@charleston-sc.gov

Lowcountry

Top Reasons You Shouldn’t Move to Charleston

August 21, 2016

by Charleston Daily 93 Comments

by Mark A Leon

I have your attention. If nothing else, some pleasant reading for a Sunday. There are statistics for everything. Some based on research, some speculation and often times both. We have heard that 40, 45, 55 and up to 70 people a day are moving to the Charleston area. Bazinga!!! That is an influx. Especially considering most of historic Charleston is below sea level. There has been high praise for this little piece of paradise, but this is an article to open your eyes and offer the counter point: Why you shouldn’t move to Charleston.

Top Reasons You Shouldn’t Move to Charleston

Taxation – Taxation in Charleston County can put quite a burden on your pocketbook or wallet. Restaurant food tax stands at 10.5%, restaurant alcohol tax is 15% and taxation on necessities such as clothes will run you 8.5%. If you have the kids or want a nice romantic evening out, you will be paying quite a bit extra to enjoy those luxuries or the basic life necessities.

Racial inequality – You will get many opinions on this one and many may not even acknowledge it as an issue. Some may be so frustrated that they won’t read this section of the article. The bottom line is that there is a racial separation point in Charleston. Whether it is location, economics, crime or lifestyle, it exists. Next time there is a major crime in Charleston, listen in on the debate. I am certain, one of the first statements will be whether it was a black on white or black on black crime.

Historic aesthetics are dying – Known for its historic church steeples, the Holy City has been a haven for history buffs, romantics and fans of true Southern hospitality. You don’t have to be an urban planner to see the infrastructure of our historic downtown is changing. With the growth of restaurants overpowering the establishment, old fixtures, such as Morris Sokol going to the waste side after 94 years and corporate entities becoming a common place at every turn, Charleston is changing. Within the next few months, there will be seven Starbucks in historic Charleston. At the corner of Calhoun and King Streets, you will find Carolina Ale House, Walgreens, Five Guys Burgers, Chipotle, Starbucks and Moe’s (and one corner is a park). It is one digital billboard from being a mini Times Square.

Heat and Humidity – This year the Farmer’s Almanac predicts that the Southeast will have an unusually warm winter. In seven years, Charleston has seen snow twice. Since April, it feels like we have had 130 plus days of 80 to 100+ degree temperatures. Add on the clingy humidity, obnoxious bugs we call neighbors and high UV sun exposure and for many you have an unbearable Summer season (even part of Spring and Autumn). The heat and humidity is an acquired taste. Learn about it first and really determine if this is what you want year round.

Cost of Living – Housing prices are high. It is a seller’s market. I am not talking foreclosures in less than stellar neighborhoods. The large management groups will take those over once those neighborhoods are cleaned up. I am talking residential home buying. If you have studied housing markets in the past, this is a perfect case study. The speed of growth over the last 7 years has been tremendous. When will the bubble burst? I know a great deal that hope it does not ever. It will. Be patient. Monitor the housing trends, but be aware, your new home may begin to “lose” value in the next few years. Also, look at the cost of goods compared to the average per capita income of the region and state. We are a bit unbalanced. (Cost of Living in Charleston)

Unpredictable weather – To the east, clouds, thunder and lightning; to the west, blue skies. As a convertible owner, weather can be a friend and a brutal enemy. Expect the unexpected. Of course, we are a hurricane spot. Though we have not had a major since 1989, the threat and the affects have been experienced here in Charleston.

Poor Driving – If you like people that don’t use blinkers, drive and text, roll through stop signs, stop and go traffic at any point in the day, hesitant drivers and high risk of road and highway accidents, then yes, Charleston is for you. Spend a few days driving through downtown, West Ashley, James Island, const Folly Beach and Mount Pleasant and really experience the true Charleston driving experience. (Letter to Charleston Drivers)

Construction issues – It is abundant and not going away anytime soon. Go to Spring Street, Lockwood, Cooper River Bridge, Cross town, James Island Connector, Folly Road and a number of other areas in the city limits area and you will see constant construction. Some projects may go on for months or longer.

Jobs and Education – I am happy to report that the growth of the tech sector and the expanding world of Boeing has added a number of key jobs in this community taking us out of the old hospitality and sales culture, but there is still room for growth and still some challenges faced by many to find strong career opportunities. Also, South Carolina traditionally ranks in the bottom 10% – 15% in academics. Research your schools first before making a decision to choose a certain district. (Charleston Education System)

King Street Grille’s Downtown Charleston Location Closing its Doors After 13 Years

August 19, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

King Street Grille’s Downtown Charleston Location Closing its Doors After 13 Years

Lease non-renewal leaves King Street one less locally owned business

Charleston, SC – King Street Grille’s original location (and namesake) will be closing its doors after 13 years in business due to non-renewal of their lease on lower King Street. The locally owned restaurant’s last day in business will be next Sunday, August 28.

King Street Grille which serves casual food and spirits in a sports-oriented setting, has five other South Carolina locations including North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Kiawah, Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach. Owners plan to assist King Street employees with finding jobs at other King Street Grille locations or at other restaurants in the Charleston area.

“We would like to thank all of our customers and employees for the support over the years. We started on King Street and King Street will always be in our name even if we don’t have a King Street restaurant,” says Scott Kier of King Street Grille. Owners say they will be actively searching other options to return to King Street under a situation where the lease agreement is mutually beneficial to all parties.

King Street Grille will be open for normal operating hours next week from 11am-11pm Monday-Thursday, 11am-12am Friday-Saturday and 11am-11pm on Sunday. For more information about King Street Grille and their other locations, please visit TheKingStreetGrille.com or find them on Facebook at King Street Grille DT Charleston

College of Charleston and Charleston Community Loses a Friend in the Passing of Norman J. Arnold

August 16, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Message from Director of Yaschik / Arnold Jewish Studies Program

August 16, 2016

Dear friend,

It is with a heavy heart that I report to you that Norman J. Arnold passed away early this morning. Norman was an anchor of the Jewish Studies Program, and the Program bears his name in virtue of his long-standing and generous support. He was a life-member of the Program’s Advisory Board, and together with Gerry Sue Arnold was its second chair. He received an honorary Doctorate from the College of Charleston in 2012.

Norman was also a dear and reliable friend. It is very sad to see those who created the Jewish Studies Program at the College and who were its most effective and ardent advocates pass from the scene. I will miss him.

A memorial service for Norman will take place at Beth Shalom in Columbia at 10am on Wednesday, August 17th. Burial will be at the Emanu-El Cemetery on Sycamore Street in West Ashley

at 2:30pm The family will receive comforters in Arnold Hall at the College of Charleston, 96 Wentworth Street, immediately after the burial, at about 4pm. There will be a mincha service at 5pm in Arnold Hall.

May Gerry Sue and his family receive comfort among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. His memory is already a blessing.

Marty

Martin Perlmutter

Director, Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program

College of Charleston

Charleston, SC 29424

phone: 843.953.7625

fax: 843.953.7624

email: perlmutterm@cofc.edu

Normal and Gerry Sue Arnold Bio

Mushrooms of the Low country

August 15, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

This is one for all the funky, head over heels nature lovers here in the Low country. We know the beauty of our skies, calmness of the harbor, shelter of our Palmettos and the tranquility of our beaches, but what about our little friends right at our feet, the mushrooms.

They are a unique part of our ecosystem, living by their own rules, popping up wherever they want and taking on amazing shapes and colors. They are the unpredictable element of nature. For that, we love them.

We wanted to share a pictorial of some of the beautiful mushrooms here in the Low country. Picture some at your toes and take a walk we me as we enjoy these unique quiet neighbors just hanging out in the shade.

Mushroom Pictorial

Charleston Tea Plantation By Featured Columnist KitchyLiving

August 15, 2016

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

#1 City in the World and I get the pleasure of living in it! Still have to pinch myself sometimes. When I’m driving around town surrounded by sprawling oak trees and spanish moss canopying the roadways, it’s like something straight from the pages of Gone With the Wind. Oh fiddle dee dee…

This city has a charm unlike any other with a history to match. In light of me leaving for PA school next month, I’ve concocted a #CHSbucketlist of places I have to go to before I head to Tennessee. Recently my dad and I decided to go down and visit the Charleston Tea Plantation not 10 miles from my house. Located on Wadmalaw Island neighboring Kiawah, Seabrook, and Johns Island, the plantation consists of 127 acres of farm land featuring green, black, oolong, and white tea plants.

With a history dating back to 1666, this island is rich with narratives including the story of the Charleston Tea Plantation. Most recently, it was bought by the Bigelow Tea Company in 2003. To date, the Charleston Tea Plantation is the only one of its kind in North America. It’s a rich piece of the Americana story full of struggle, triumph, growth, and vibrance.

If you are thinking about visiting the plantation, a trolley tour is a must! A guide will take you around the grounds explaining the history of the company and plantation as well as the growing, harvesting, and production process of making tea. TIP: If you are planning on visiting in the summer, get there early to avoid the sweltering afternoon heat (note there is no air conditioning on the trolley ride). With 20 different fields throughout the property, the groundskeepers harvest plant growth one field/day with a rotation that ends up being a 20-day cycle. 3-5 inches of growth can occur on the plants within 20 days. This height allows for optimum taste and flavor.

Some of the different tea blends they produce are Original, Charleston Breakfast, Earl Grey, Plantation Peach, Rockville Raspberry, Carolina Mint, Cinnamon Spice, Green, and Green with Mint.

Photo courtesy of Bigelow Tea Company

The grounds also include a tasting room and gift shop. Be sure to try all the different teas before you leave. They even let you try their First Flush blend, made with the first crop of the growing season beginning in April and May. This first growth has a unique flavor to it that is considered to be the cream of the crop.

Photos courtesy of @charlestonteaplantation Instagram

Before visiting this plantation I knew nothing about tea production. Check out some tea fun facts below…

TeaFunFacts

Whether you are a Charleston native or a seasonal tourist, the Charleston Tea Plantation is a must-see attraction for rich history, stunning views, and a cuppa good fun!

Follow more great KitchyLiving Writing

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