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.

Locally Made Oyster Knife, Steamer Featured on ‘Top Chef’

December 5, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Locally Made Oyster Knife, Steamer Featured on ‘Top Chef’

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – A custom-designed oyster knife created by local
company The Charleston Shucker Co. was used by one of the contestants on
“Top Chef,” which premiered its 14th season on Dec. 1.

The Charleston Shucker, an oyster knife custom designed by Lindsey
Ballenger, founder of The Charleston Shucker Co., was used by Gerald
Sombright, one of the rookie chefs from Marco Island, Florida.

The popular cooking show on Bravo is a showdown between returning chef
contestants and eight new chefs. It was filmed in Charleston earlier
this year and even features local Emily Hahn, chef at Charleston’s
Warehouse Bar + Kitchen.

In the second episode airing on Thursday, Dec. 8, Charleston Shucker’s
own Lowcountry Steamer will be used to cook up some classic Lowcountry
boil. The Lowcountry Steamer is the company’s all-purpose steamer used
to boil, steam or deep fry and is large enough for parties and corporate
events.

The Charleston Shucker Co. was founded in 2007 by South Carolina native
Ballenger and her husband. They were searching for personalized oyster
knives to give as Christmas gifts, but couldn’t find them anywhere. So
they started an online shop offering engraved oyster knives. Eventually
they designed their own oyster knife and began to offer a few
additional, complimentary products.

Ballenger said she wasn’t completely sure her products would end up on
this season’s “Top Chef,” so she was excited to watch the show and
see her own oyster knife on the screen.

“We’ve remained a small, family-owned business offering products we
love to use ourselves,” she said. “To see our labor of love featured
on such a popular television show was so gratifying. We were thrilled to
represent Charleston to the world.”

This isn’t the only press for The Charleston Shucker Co. this fall.
The Palmetto Shucker is featured in the December issue of _Southern
Living_ magazine’s “Gifts Made in the South.”

ABOUT THE CHARLESTON SHUCKER CO.
Oyster lovers know a high-quality oyster shucker is essential for
breaking open an oyster shell with ease, and a personalized oyster knife
is a treasure that will last for years. As the original online source
for custom oyster knives, The Charleston Shucker Co. offers classic
Southern oyster products straight from the owners’ home in Charleston,
South Carolina. For more information, visit www.charlestonshuckerco.com

December 7 – Pearl Harbor Day (75th Anniversary) – We Remember the 177 Charleston County Casualties of World War II

December 5, 2016

by Charleston Daily

To those that lived it, for those that have followed history, studied it and reflected on its importance, World War II will forever be a foundation in this nations history. This global conflict became personal to the United States and was the direct catalyst that led to 16.1 million Americans serving in this war of global freedom on December 7, 1941.

As Franklin Delano Roosevelt stated in his address to the nation on December 8, “Yesterday, December 7, 1941 – a date which will live in infamy – the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.” as he declared a state of war. – Complete Speech

As we look to our young students and the Citadel, many of which will turn to a career in the military, our men and women serving at the Charleston Naval Weapons Station and the historic military significance of Charleston, we take personal pride in the freedoms we were given 240 years ago. To those that have served and sacrificed, those that came home to hold their children once again and those that sleep in tents thousands of miles away from their loved ones to secure our liberties, we are indebted to you.

Each and every man and woman that holds the flag of freedom has chosen to be part of something bigger than themselves and there are not words to describe what they mean to us and how they will remain in our thoughts, prayers and actions.

On this day, let us remember the 171 Charleston County men and women that lost their lives protecting our freedom during World War II. Your names and legacies will never be forgotten.

Full List of Dead and Missing Military from South Carolina from World War II

Photographic Highlights of the 2016 Charleston Holiday Parade

December 5, 2016

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

The forecast was cloudy with a chance of rain in downtown Charleston yesterday, but that did not stop hundreds along the route of Broad Street, King Street and Meeting Street from donning their best holiday attire and enjoying one of the nicest community events of the season. From the Mayor to Santa, the community of Charleston waved and cheered on the floats, bands, cars and decorated parade participants as they journeyed through the streets.

For those that could not attend, we wanted to capture some of the moments from yesterday’s holiday parade.

As you can see, there is a strong sense of love and community that came out to witness yesterday’s event. Even with the chance of rain, it did not stop the dedicated volunteers, officers and patrons from coming together.

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Happy Holidays

Farewell To Those Businesses We Have Lost in Charleston in 2016

November 30, 2016

by Charleston Daily 6 Comments

This year saw a tremendous amount of change on the peninsula. New development was in the forefront of our vision, but on the ground level, we said goodbye to some old friends. Many businesses that have been with us for many generations closed their doors for the final time. We want to take a moment to pay homage to those that we lost in 2016. Thank you for your dedicated support of the community and being there for us for so long. For the next step in your journey, we wish you all the best.

To some of our old friends, we say goodbye – You are missed

Lee Lee’s Hot Kitchen – 218 President Street

Menkoi Ramen House – 41 George Street

Stereo 8 – 951 Folly Road

Joe Pasta – 428 King Street

Nancy’s of Charleston – 342 King Street

Chick’s Fry House – 1011 King Street

Hughes Lumber (Since 1888) – 82 Mary Street

King Street Grille – 304 King Street

The Westendorf – 114 St. Philips Street

Bob Ellis Shoes – 332 King Street

Blind Tiger (Left us, new owners and new restaurant) – 36-38 Broad Street

Morris Sokol Furniture – 510 King Street

Wasabi (Now Sushi Blue) – 61 State Street

BiLo – 445 Meeting Street

Big John’s Pub – 251 East Bay Street

Wet Willie’s – 209 East Bay Street

Bocci’s – 158 Church Street

Molly Darcy’s – 235 East Bay Street

Leaf Charleston – 15 Beaufain Street

Parlor Deluxe – 207A St. Philip Street

Octobochi – 119 Spring Street

Crosby’s Seafood Market – 382 Spring Street, Charleston, SC

Dunkin’ Donuts – 200 Meeting Street

Wild Wing Cafe – 36 North Market Street (Closed after 24 years at this location)

Stono Breeze Cafe – 2408 Maybank Highway, Johns Island

Tony The Peanut Man – Everywhere

Must See Videos from the Charleston, SC Archives

November 29, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Sometimes we are lucky to uncover some rare footage of Charleston yesteryear. We have a few great looks back at the way Charleston used to be.

Sit back in this virtual time machine and enjoy some footage from the treasure chest of the Charleston historic archives.

Budweiser Clydesdales – Charleston, SC 1957

Sara Byrne and Nessa K in Charleston, SC – Sullivan’s Island (Music Video)

Charleston, SC Snow – 1973 (Super 8)

WXTC Charleston, SC (Light Rock) – Donna McCoy (1986)

WXTC Charleston, SC (Light Rock) – Mark Cardnella (1985)

Hurricane Hugo – Wrath to Restoration – Charleston, SC (1989)

Hurricane Hugo – The Morning After News Charleston, SC – 1989

South Carolina 1950’s

Charleston, SC Historic Flooding – October 3, 2015

Charleston, South Carolina 1964

We hope you enjoyed this walk down memory lane.

Iconic Historic Images of Charleston, South Carolina

November 28, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Robert Frank Iconic Image of 1950's Charleston — Robert Frank Iconic Image of 1950’s Charleston

The passion for Charleston history has inspired us to do another installment of historic Charleston, SC images. We have searched far and wide to show the people, architecture and lifestyle of Charleston through the years and your enthusiasm to absorb, remember and share has been overwhelming. Please enjoy these prints that take us through the years. Some memories fond, some heartbreaking, but all memorable.

Charleston, Through the Years – A Visionary Look Back

1915 - Children playing in flooded streets — 1915 – Children playing in flooded streets

Fire scarred Mills House - 1865 — Fire scarred Mills House – 1865

Physicians and Surgeons Hospital 1886 Charleston

Cannon Street YMCA 1955 - Watching a game — Cannon Street YMCA 1955 – Watching a game

Aftermath of 1938 tournedos in Charleston — Aftermath of 1938 tornados in Charleston

Feb 18 1965 - Surrender of Charleston — Feb 18 1865 – Surrender of Charleston

Never forget our past

Real Estate

PWC Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2017 Reports Reveals A Great Deal About Charleston Market

November 28, 2016

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) has released its 2017 Emerging Trends in Real Estate Report for 2017 for the United States/Canada and it reveals a very telling story for Charleston and its housing markets.

PWC Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2017 Full Report

The report defines the future of Charleston, SC real estate, saying:

“Charleston, South Carolina, could be considered an emerging 18-hour city with an economy that is firing on all cylinders going into 2017. Strong demographic growth, the expansion of manufacturing facilities, improved transportation and logistics access, and a growing tech services industry are all driving the Charleston economy. Population and household growth is projected to be strong in 2017. In addition, Charleston is becoming a preferred destination for college graduates between the ages of 25 to 34. The younger well-educated workforce is facilitating the growth of Charleston’s expanding tech base. High-tech employment is projected to expand at a faster pace than the national average in 2017. On the manufacturing front, one automaker is starting a major expansion while another is opening a new production facility. Auto production activity could lead to an influx of new parts suppliers locating in the region. Finally, the Port of Charleston should benefit from the Panama Canal expansion. Planned capital expenditures at the port will improve the competitiveness of the operation and further establish Charleston’s reputation as a logistics hub.”

State of Charleston, SC Real Estate

This report indicates that there is an increased demand for investment in Charleston real estate and the potential for a huge upside in 2017. For overall real estate prospects in 2017, Charleston, SC is ranked #31 in the nation. Charleston is ranked #2 behind Raleigh, NC home building prospects in 2017. Investor demand, which is an indicator of the interest investors have in the future prospects of development in a region has Charleston #14.

Charleston Buy, Sell, Hold Recommendations

The full report contains an in-depth analysis on pricing, population and other key census indicators.

What Charleston is Thankful for in 2016

November 24, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Charleston, we asked and here is what you are thankful for at the start of this holiday season…

-“Family.”

-“Thankful I’m a teacher and can still make a difference in the world of a child.”

-“Family and beauty of Charleston and its people.”

-“Fish fingers and custard.”

-“My work ethic.”

-“My friends and family, opportunity, and beauty.”

-“Generosity of friends and family, and that this baby seems to be developing well.”

-“Time off with family.”

-“Sanity.” Thanksgiving People Table

-“Life. Family. Friendship. Health.”

-“Nap time!”

-“Thankful when nothing is left unsaid.”

-“Family.”

-“Home, health, family, experience.”

-“That I wake up each morning to a new day.”

-“Wine and ice cream.”

-“To have friends and family that I can count on.”

-“Healthy kids, affectionate pets, loyal and loving friends, and the respect of my parents.”

-“Wonderfully, amazing friends who love me for me.”

-“2016 is almost over.”

-“God, my family and friends.”

-“Three children, Alyssa, Kyle, and Blake and for their strength and perseverance. Beyond blessed.”

-“A new start at a new life.”

-“Indoor plumbing…and soft toilet paper.”

-“Family.”

-“Still breathing.”

-“To be able to watch the sunrise.”

-“The relationship with my family.”

-“Family.”

-“Coffee, so I am able to wake up early to catch my flight to visit friends and family for Thanksgiving.”

-“To be alive for the holidays.” #CancerStrong

-“Family, good health and America.”

-“The time that we did have together.”

-“Supportive family and friends, a new career that I love, and health.”

-“The immense amount of love I’m surrounded by with my Charleston family…especially when so far from my actual family.”

-“Selfless friends who spend their time helping me fix my truck.”

-“Family, friends, good health, salt water, diet green tea and that I can smile every day.”

-“Family.”

Princess Diana is given credit for the saying “Family is the most important thing in the world,” however we have known this for centuries. Given how our hearts’ shine, it is no surprise that family appears as a reoccurring value amongst Charlestonians.

Happy Thanksgiving,
from our family to yours

Lowcountry - Photography

Getting to Know Philadelphia Alley

November 17, 2016

by Charleston Daily 4 Comments

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By Minta Pavliscsak

If there is one thing Charleston, South Carolina will never be lacking, it is charm. In historic downtown Charleston, every street, store front, restaurant, park, and even alleyway has a way to make you point and say “awe”. Then, as if an automatic response, your camera is out taking pictures before you even realize it.

This charming alley can be found between Queen Street and Cumberland Street. Often overlooked, Philadelphia Alley is one of the many hidden treasures Charleston offers. Dating back to 1776, Cow’s Alley as it was originally called, was access to rental homes behind Francis Kinloch’s house. He renamed it Kinloch’s Court after he widened it.

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This alley has seen two fires in its lifetime, including the infamous fire of 1796, and another in 1810. Holding true to its name, The City of Brotherly Love stood by Charleston’s side by donating financially to aid in rebuilding this area in 1811.

What a more proper thank you than to forever give this beautiful strip of canopy covered, cobblestone refuge from the heat during the summer months, and the best place to listen to the bells of St. Phillips Church the honor of the name Philadelphia Alley.

Many locals refer to this passageway as Dueler’s Alley. Back when gentleman settled their disputes with pistols twenty-one paces away, this alley was the perfect setting in Charleston to do so. One of the most famous stories is of one man’s love and what he did to prove said love. Dr. Joseph Brown Ladd, known as the whistling doctor would eventually meet his demise as a result of a duel with Ralph Isaacs in 1786.

Many local ghost tour companies will tell the tale of the Whistling Doctor, and some Charlestonians have even said to have heard faint whistling while walking down the alley alone. Today you will find a tranquil, picturesque setting where each person you meet will pass you by with a friendly smile and nod. So as Robert Frost first suggest, take the road less traveled and be sure to explore Charleston’s only Philadelphia Alley.

East Side Charleston: Where the Deep Roots of Community Live

November 16, 2016

by Charleston Daily 3 Comments

“Philip Simmons is a poet of ironwork. His ability to endow raw iron with pure lyricism is known and admired throughout, not only in South Carolina, but as evidenced by his many honors and awards, he is recognized in all of America.”– John Paul Huguley: Founder, School of the Building Arts (now the American College of the Building Arts)

Philip Simmons (1912 – 2009)

Philip Simmons is one of the most celebrated blacksmiths of the 20th century. Born in the Wando area of Daniel Island, his influence on Charleston and the country is a symbol of the structural bond the East Side has. That influence is readily seen in the streets and parks of the East Side.

His legacy is a reminder of the importance the East Side has in the Charleston diverse and evolving cultural ecosystem. As I walked the streets of the East Side, I saw faces on a fences in a photographic expose entitled East Siders Matter: Faces of a Neighborhood in Transition. As I looked deep into the eyes of the portraits I saw pain and hope. I saw a neighborhood rich in history, solidified by a common struggle and strong in faith.

The East Side is a proud neighborhood with a supportive foundation and like the work of a professional blacksmith, is rooted with strength and the commitment that it will remain for a very long time.

As I walked the streets on Sunday morning, watching the churches fill up, the residents sitting on their steps talking, dogs out with their owners and a moment of solace in the air, I saw an area that is overflowing with pride.

Take a walk with me and see the inner beauty of the East Side of Charleston.

Philip Simmons lives on in the street art

The Simmons Park offers a safe haven for children and adults to play.

A community struggling for identity stands strong

The lines of life in their faces show hope, promise and love.

East Siders even find art and beauty in waste.

The legacy of Philip Simmons lives on forever.

Everyone is welcome on the East Side.

Time to relax with a good book on the porch.

Growth local produce in the Community Center Garden.

The garden is supported proudly by the Boys and Girls Club.

Stop on in for a little local soul food.

The children are our future.

If you need your hair done, come to Julia’s.

If you want to witness true humanity, go to the park that bares the statue of Philip Simmons on Sunday at 12:30 and observe the Pot Luck Homeless lunch. In fact, come a little early and donate your time to help become closer to the community.

The East Side is a small and proud neighborhood, where you can go to the Palace Hotel Bar and see Shepard Fairey spin on DJ, have a bite of soul food to eat at Hannibal’s Kitchen, check out a band at The Royal American or attend a service with the locals. It is filled with wonderful and caring people. Take a trip off the beaten path and spend some time on the East Side.