Grand Opening: Wyrd Sisters Brewery (North Charleston, SC) – Saturday, February 15, 2025

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Join the house party on Saturday, February 15th from 12-11pm. Wyrd Sisters brews will be on tap for the first time featuring:

— First Is the Worst – New Zealand Pale Ale
— Torment of Transformation – Chocolate Orange Black IPA
— Gray Sweatpants – Banana Cream Pie Hefeweizen
— Heathen – Heath bar inspired ESB
— Muertes – Mexican Fruit Cup Sour w/Serrano chilies

These batches are EXTREMELY LIMITED. Get here early, they will sell out!

Food from @keeskitchenchs (12-3) and @banginveganeats (5-8).

REMINDER: The taphouse is 21+. Well behaved kids and dogs (leashed) are welcome under the oaks in the backyard.

Location: 4840 Chateau Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405-4807, United States

Official Website

48 Hours of dining, shopping, spas and more in the Cannonborough/Elliotborough Neighborbood (Charleston, SC)

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By Mark A Leon

The Elliotborough neighborhood in Charleston, South Carolina is a vibrant area perfect for a weekend of shopping and dining. It includes Spring Street, Cannon Street, Upper King Street and a few more smaller hidden areas. It is so full of life and energy!

Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit:

Breakfast Options
Island Provisions (221 St Philip St, Charleston, SC 29403): Enjoy locally sourced breakfast sandwiches like “The Boss” or refreshing smoothies like the Pina Berry.
Holey City Bagels (43 Cannon St, Charleston, SC 29403): A family-owned spot offering New York-style bagels and hearty breakfast sandwiches.
The Daily (652 B King St, Charleston, SC 29403): Known for gourmet sourdough toast, breakfast bowls, and excellent coffee. Bonus: They have an off-street parking lot.

Holey City Bagels

Lunch Spots
Babas on Cannon (11 Cannon St, Charleston, SC 29403): A cozy café with a standout turkey club sandwich and toasted banana bread.
The Pass (207-A St Philip St, Charleston, SC 29403): Famous for its massive gourmet sandwiches and craft beer.
Pink Cactus (100 A Spring St, Charleston, SC 29403): A local favorite offering flavorful Mexican-inspired dishes.
Dinner Highlights
Chubby Fish (252 Coming St, Charleston, SC 29403): A dock-to-table seafood restaurant featuring fresh daily catches. Arrive early as it’s walk-in only. Now a James Beard Semi-Finalist!
Bistronomy by Nico (64 Spring St, Charleston, SC 29403): Upscale French bistro with classic dishes and craft cocktails.
Kultura (73 Spring St Unit A, Charleston, SC 29403): Highly rated Filipino cuisine with standout dishes like Tortang Talong.

The Pass

Bistronomy by Nico



Bars and Nightlife
Tippling House (221 Coming St, Charleston, SC 29403): A cozy wine bar with an extensive selection curated by a sommelier.
Bourbon N’ Bubbles (570 King St, Charleston, SC 29403): Lively atmosphere with craft cocktails and small plates.

Shopping
The Tiny Tassel (46 Spring St Unit B, Charleston, SC 29403): Vibrant handmade jewelry, clothing, and accessories.
The Paper Canopy (93 Spring St C, Charleston, SC 29403): Art supplies, stationery, and creative workshops.
Rooted in Charleston (232 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC 29403): A plant shop offering unique greenery for nature lovers.

The Paper Canopy

Rooted in Charleston



Other Activities
Explore Cannon Street and Spring Street for their eclectic mix of boutiques, coffee shops like Babas on Cannon, and wellness spots like Sôlt Wellness (137 President St Unit A, Charleston, SC 29403) for spa treatments (includes off-street parking).

Sôlt Wellness

Photo Credits: Holey City Bagels, The Pass, Island Provisions, The Paper Canopy, Rooted in Charleston, Sôlt Wellness and Bistronomy by Nico

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The Great Charleston, SC Restaurant Exodus of 2024:  Why so many closures and how restaurants are adjusting

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina, long celebrated as a culinary haven, faced an unprecedented wave of restaurant closures in 2024.  Over 50 small business restaurants in Charleston and its surrounding areas shuttered their doors, leaving the local food scene reeling. This article explores the multifaceted reasons behind this culinary crisis.

Economic Pressures

Rising Costs

One of the primary factors contributing to the restaurant closures was the escalating cost of operations. Restaurant owners faced significant challenges in maintaining profitability due to:

  • High food costs: Fine dining establishments, in particular, struggled with the expenses associated with premium ingredients.
  • Increasing rent: Low inventory in Charleston’s real estate market fueled rising rent prices, putting additional strain on restaurant budgets.
  • Labor expenses: The ongoing shortage of qualified staff led to higher wages and increased operational costs.

Tight Profit Margins

The restaurant industry is notorious for its razor-thin profit margins. In Charleston’s competitive market, many establishments found it increasingly difficult to balance rising costs with customer expectations for reasonable pricing.

Competitive Landscape

Oversaturation

Charleston’s reputation as a food destination led to a surge in new restaurant openings over the years. This oversaturation created intense competition, making it challenging for existing restaurants to maintain their customer base.

Changing Consumer Preferences

The pandemic significantly altered dining habits, with a notable shift towards takeout and delivery options. Restaurants that couldn’t adapt to these changes struggled to survive.

Staffing Challenges

Labor Shortage

The restaurant industry continued to grapple with a severe shortage of qualified staff, both in the front and back of house. This shortage not only increased labor costs but also impacted service quality and operational efficiency.

High Turnover

The demanding nature of restaurant work, coupled with the industry’s reputation for low wages and limited benefits, contributed to high employee turnover rates. This constant cycle of hiring and training new staff placed additional strain on restaurant owners.

Regulatory and Insurance Hurdles

Liquor Liability Insurance

A significant factor in the closures, particularly for bars and restaurants serving alcohol, was the rising cost of liquor liability insurance in South Carolina. This increase in operational expenses made it difficult for many establishments to remain profitable.

Health Inspections

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) faced challenges in keeping up with restaurant inspections due to understaffing. This led to less frequent inspections and potential food safety concerns, which could impact customer confidence and restaurant reputations.

Impact of the Pandemic

Lingering Effects

While 2024 saw a return to normalcy in many aspects, the restaurant industry continued to feel the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many establishments had depleted their financial reserves and taken on additional debt during the lockdowns, leaving them vulnerable to economic pressures.

Changed Consumer Behavior

The pandemic permanently altered some dining habits, with many consumers still preferring takeout or delivery options. Restaurants that couldn’t effectively pivot to these service models struggled to attract customers.

Notable Closures

The wave of closures affected both new and established restaurants across Charleston and its neighboring areas:

  • Longstanding Favorites: Cru Café (23 years), Bearcat Restaurant, The Brew Cellar, Taco Bartina, Bar Rollins, Makan, Rutledge Cab Company, Harold’s Cabin, Bar Copa and Barsa Tapas and Lounge.
  • Short term losses: Colectivo closed just before its first anniversary.
  • Chain Restaurants: Wild Wing Cafe in North Charleston and Outback Steakhouse in Mount Pleasant also succumbed to the challenging market conditions.

Industry Response

Adaptation Strategies

Some restaurants managed to weather the storm by implementing innovative strategies:

  • Menu Optimization: Focusing on high-margin items and streamlining offerings to reduce costs.
  • Technology Integration: Adopting new technologies for ordering and inventory management to improve efficiency.
  • Marketing Efforts: Increasing social media presence and partnering with influencers to attract customers.

Concept Pivots

Several establishments chose to reinvent themselves, changing or adding to their existing concepts to better align with the evolving market demands.

Looking Ahead

Despite the significant number of closures, Charleston’s culinary scene shows signs of resilience. New restaurants continue to open, demonstrating ongoing faith in the city’s reputation as a food destination.

However, the industry faces ongoing challenges:

  • Staffing: The need for qualified staff remains a pressing issue.
  • Cost Management: Balancing rising costs with customer price expectations will continue to be a delicate act.
  • Adaptation: Restaurants must remain agile, ready to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions.

The restaurant closures of 2024 in Charleston serve as a stark reminder of the industry’s volatility. While the city’s culinary reputation remains strong, the events of the past year highlight the need for innovative approaches, sound financial management, and adaptability in the face of changing market dynamics. As Charleston’s food scene evolves, it will be those establishments that can navigate these challenges while maintaining their unique culinary identities that will thrive in the years to come.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) celebrates wildlife, art and outdoor adventure in the heart of Charleston, SC

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By Mark A Leon

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) 2025 is set to transform Charleston, South Carolina, into a vibrant celebration of wildlife, art, and outdoor adventure from February 14-16, 2025. 

This three-day event, now in its 43rd year, promises an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and art lovers alike.

Event Highlights

SEWE 2025 will span five key locations across Charleston: The Charleston Place, Brittlebank Park, Gaillard Center, Charleston Marriott, and Marion Square.  Visitors can expect a diverse array of attractions and activities:

Fine Art Gallery

The SEWE Fine Art Gallery will showcase works from talented wildlife painters and sculptors. Art enthusiasts should keep an eye out for the 2025 Featured Artist, whose central piece will capture the spirit of the event.


Live Demonstrations

  • DockDogs Competition: Watch skilled dogs soar through the air and splash into water in this thrilling event.
  • Birds of Prey Flight Demonstrations: Witness majestic raptors take to the skies in awe-inspiring displays.
  • Sheep and Duck Herding: See the impressive teamwork between herding dogs and their handlers.

Conservation and Education

SEWE 2025 will feature insightful conservation education programs, connecting attendees with experts who share a passion for wildlife.

Sporting Showroom

The Charleston Marriott will host an expanded Sporting Showroom, featuring high-end lifestyle brands and the Ducks Unlimited Auction.


Must-Not-Miss Events

  • 1. Copley Fine Art Decoy Exhibit: A unique display of artisanal decoys.
  • 2. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Live Shows: Get up close with various wildlife species.
  • 3. Chef Demonstrations: Enjoy culinary presentations showcasing local flavors.
  • 4. Kids Zone at Brittlebank Park: Perfect for families, offering camel and pony rides, a petting zoo, and educational programs.
  • 5. Special Events: Consider attending the Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast & Lowcountry Cookout or the Whiskey Tasting Experience for an enhanced SEWE experience.

SEWE 2025 is not just an event; it’s an immersive celebration of the great outdoors. With hundreds of renowned artists, exhibitors, and conservationists, it promises to inspire, educate, and connect people who share a love for wildlife and nature. 

Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, SEWE 2025 offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of the natural world in the heart of Charleston.

Photo Credit: SEWE

Related: What you need to know about SEWE 2025

New Firehouse Subs® Opens in Charleston, SC on Clements Ferry Road

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New Firehouse Subs® Opens in Charleston

Charleston, SC (2/12/2025) – Yesterday, Firehouse Subs® was pleased to announce a new restaurant inCharleston. Located at 838 Clements Ferry Road, the new restaurant is owned and operated by Bryan, Mary, BJ and Kayla Paquin.

“We are thrilled to be a part of the Firehouse Subs family and continue to bring our hearty and flavorful subs to the Charleston community,” said Bryan Paquin. “We can’t wait to meet new guests and support our local first responders through our portion of every purchase program that benefits Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.”

Founded by former firefighter brothers out of Jacksonville, Florida nearly 30 years ago, the foundation ofFirehouse Subs is built upon serving hot, flavorful subs using quality ingredients, offering exceptional guest service, and commitment to public safety. A proprietary steaming process unlocks flavor and maintains moisture in every made-to-order, sliced in-house sub, making signature items like the Hook & Ladder® and Firehouse Meatball fan favorites.

The Clements Ferry restaurant displays décor that reflects the founding family’s decades of fire and police service with gear and photos donated by local fire departments. It also boasts a custom, hand-painted mural by Chief Mural Artist Joe Puskas, that features the local HS’s mascot, Wando river and Wando bridge in the background where BJ loves to fish.

The Paquin’s are dedicated to sharing the brand’s commitment to giving back through Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation®, which has granted more than $89 million to first responders and public safetyorganizations across the U.S. A portion of every purchase at any Firehouse Subs in the U.S. benefits the Foundation, providing lifesaving equipment and resources to first responders and public safety organizations across the country.

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About Firehouse Subs®

Firehouse Subs® is a restaurant chain with a passion for hearty and flavorful food, heartfelt service, and public safety. Founded in Jacksonville, Florida in 1994 by two former firefighting brothers, the brand is built ondecades of hot and hearty subs piled with high quality meats and cheeses and is committed to saving lives through the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, providing lifesaving equipment, and needed resources to first responders and public safety organizations. Firehouse Subs is a subsidiary of Restaurant BrandsInternational Inc. (“RBI”), one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant companies with over $35 billion in annual

system-wide sales and approximately 30,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries. RBI owns four of the world’s most prominent and iconic quick service restaurant brands – Burger King®, Tim Hortons®, Popeyes®, and Firehouse Subs®. To learn more, visit www.firehousesubs.com.

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If you could only have 4 desserts in Charleston, SC, what would you choose? – We have some recommendations

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By Mark A Leon

If you could only have four desserts in Charleston, SC, here are 4 of our top picks and why they stand out:

1. Coconut Cake at Peninsula Grill (112 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401)

This iconic dessert is a must-try in Charleston. Known for its 12 decadent layers of moist cake and creamy coconut frosting, it has gained national acclaim and is considered one of the best desserts in the city. The cake’s rich flavor and perfect balance of sweetness make it an unforgettable treat.

Coconut Cake – Peninsula Grill


2. Mini Cakes at Carmella’s Café and Dessert Bar (198 E Bay St STE 100, Charleston, SC 29401)

Carmella’s offers adorable and delicious mini cakes in rotating flavors like blueberry lemon, Oreo, and cannoli. These cakes are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making them a perfect choice for sharing or indulging solo in a charming downtown setting.

Mini Cakes – Carmella’s


3. Ice Cream Sandwiches at Peace Pie (223 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401)

For a unique twist on dessert, Peace Pie serves ice cream sandwiches layered with pie fillings such as pecan pie or key lime pie. This creative concept combines nostalgic flavors with a modern presentation, offering a fun and satisfying experience.

Ice cream sandwiches – Peace Pie


4. Tres Leches at Charleston Grill (224 King St, Charleston, SC 29401)

This elevated take on tres leches features mango mousse, coconut tuile, cherry coulis, and a tableside pour of coconut crème anglaise. Crafted by renowned pastry chef Fabrice Benezit, this dessert is a masterpiece of flavor, texture, and artistry that reflects Charleston’s fine dining scene.

These four desserts showcase Charleston’s diverse culinary creativity and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Tres Leches – Charleston Grill

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New single-family villas open at Johns Island housing community

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by Jason Thomas

A single-family housing developer has opened up sales for its Johns Island development.

Built by homebuilder New Leaf Builders and marketed by Carolina One New Homes, Atrium Villas at Hayes Park in Johns Island are now selling, according to a news release.

The attached, single-family homes are located in Hayes, Park, Johns Island’s only pedestrian community, the release stated. The community integrates residences and a commercial marketplace, creating a walkable lifestyle designed for connection and convenience, the release stated.

The Atrium Villas feature modern design offering layouts with plans ranging up to 2,431 square feet, two to five-bedroom and 2-and-a-half to 3-and-a-half bath options, the release stated. Situated under a canopy of ancient oaks, the town center features a mix of future boutique shops, dining and services.


New Leaf Builders offers a collection of floor plans to choose from with pricing starting at $524,900.

Across town, Middleborough Condominiums offer a New Leaf Builders’ home packaged in a condominium floor plan, according to the release, Located within one of West Ashley’s most coveted communities Shadowmoss Plantation, the luxury condos border the fifth hole of Shadowmoss Golf Course.

Each condominium features single-floor living and ranges from 1,785 to 1,975 square feet, with integrated garages, future-focused elevator shafts and lock and leave capability.  Phase two is now available for sale with pricing from the mid $400,000s.

Source: Charleston Regional Business

Breeze Airways to launch 3 new non-stop routes from Charleston, South Carolina

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By Jason Thomas 

Come this summer, Lowcountry travelers will have new air travel options for Northeast destinations.

Breeze Airways has announced three new nonstop routes to Albany, N.Y.; Rochester N.Y.; and Burlington, VT.

The airline is also inaugurating its previously announced service to New Haven, Conn., starting today, February 5, 2025

“The expansion of Breeze Airways’ nonstop service to Rochester and Albany will be its 5th and 6th New York State destinations, respectively, offered from Charleston International Airport,” Elliott Summey, CEO and executive director of Charleston County Aviation Authority, said in a news release. “The new routes will be welcomed enthusiastically by area travelers. And with the addition of our region’s first nonstop flight to the state of Vermont, Burlington becomes the 7th New England route offered by Breeze from our airport as well as the 25th nonstop city.

“Our travelers have asked for affordable nonstop flights to more destinations and Breeze continues to deliver.”

Travelers from Charleston can now book nonstop flights on Breeze to:

  • Albany, N.Y. (Mondays and Fridays, starting June 13);
  • Burlington, VT.(summer seasonal, Mondays and Fridays);
  • Rochester, N.Y. (Thursdays and Sundays, starting May 8); and
  • New Haven, CT. (Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays).

“We recognize Breeze carefully evaluates when and where to commit its assets as they expand their network,” said Helen Turner Hill, chair of the Aviation Authority and CEO of Explore Charleston, in the release. “This announcement is another vote of confidence in our existing partnership as well as our region’s travel and hospitality industry. Adding service to three new destinations not only improves access for visitors from the important Northeast markets, it also provides additional connectivity to local residents traveling to upstate New York and Vermont.”

The news comes on the heels of Breeze’s January announcement marking its first full quarter of operating profit in the fourth quarter of 2024, the release stated. The airline announced it achieved an operating margin of more than 4% in the fourth quarter.

“Breeze started flying from Charleston on day one and it has become our biggest base,” said David Neeleman, Breeze Airways’ founder and CEO, in the release. “Now with service to Albany, Burlington and Rochester, we offer more than two dozen nonstop destinations from Charleston International. We couldn’t ask for better partners in Charleston County Aviation Authority and Explore Charleston and look forward to our continued work together.”

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Source: Charleston Regional Business Journal

6 Exceptional Women-Owned Businesses in Charleston, South Carolina You Should Know and the Remarkable Forces Behind Them

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By Mark A Leon

Charleston, SC, is home to a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs excelling in diverse industries. Here are five exceptional women-owned businesses known for their outstanding products and customer service.

Life Raft Treats
• Owner: Cynthia Wong
• Location: 4257 Domino Avenue, North Charleston, SC 29405
• Hours: Varies; check website for details
• Website: liferafttreats.com

Cynthia Wong, a six-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef, founded Life Raft Treats in 2018. Specializing in artisan ice cream novelties, the business celebrates nostalgia with a twist. Using locally sourced ingredients, Wong crafts unique treats that spark joy and surprise. Life Raft Treats has grown significantly, now employing 16 people and distributing products nationwide. The company also supports refugee women through employment partnerships with Global Refugee Services. You can now see Cynthia on Shark Tank.

Beau & Ro
• Owner: Sara Rossi
• Location: 171 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM; Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM

Founded in 2013 by Sara Rossi, Beau & Ro began as a leather bag company and has since expanded into a full apparel brand. Rossi produces her clothing at a fair-trade factory she established in India, ensuring ethical manufacturing practices. Located on King Street, the store offers stylish and sustainable fashion that reflects Charleston’s charm and sophistication.

Official Website of Beau & Ro

ACE: The Anneclaire Experience
• Owner: Anneclaire Nelson
• Location: 695 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC
• Hours: Monday-Friday: Morning & Evening Classes; Saturday: Morning Classes

Anneclaire Nelson opened ACE fitness studio in March 2024 to offer dance-based workouts that strengthen both body and mind. Her high-energy classes have quickly gained popularity among locals looking for fun and effective fitness experiences. As a Greenville native turned Charleston entrepreneur, Nelson’s passion shines through her innovative approach to wellness.
These businesses exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of Charleston’s women leaders while making significant contributions to their community through creativity, quality service, and social impact.

Official Anneclaire Experience Website

The Works
• Owner: Sarah Frick
• Location: 465 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Varies by class schedule

Sarah Frick opened The Works in 2018 as a high-energy fitness studio offering yoga-inspired workouts. Known for its inclusive community and transformative classes, The Works has become a go-to destination for fitness enthusiasts seeking mental and physical wellness.

Official Website of The Works Charleston

Pink Cactus
• Owner: Brooke Warden
• Location: 100 Spring Street, Charleston, SC 29403
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 4 PM – Close

Brooke Warden combines her love for Mexican cuisine with her Charleston roots at Pink Cactus. This vibrant restaurant offers flavorful dishes inspired by her travels and culinary expertise. With its welcoming atmosphere and creative menu, Pink Cactus is a standout in the city’s dining scene.

Official Website of Pink Cactus

Hampden Clothing
• Owner: Stacy Smallwood
• Location: 314 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
• Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM; Sunday: Closed
Stacy Smallwood founded Hampden Clothing to offer curated high-fashion pieces that break traditional molds. Known for its impeccable customer service and unique selections from global designers, Hampden has become a staple for fashion-forward shoppers in Charleston.

    Official Hampden Clothing Website

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    Bill Murray Super Bowl Ad Invites Fans to Email His Yahoo Address — And He’ll Respond With a Story

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    Yes, Yahoo still offers free email addresses — and apparently Bill Murray can be found at his, “Billhimself@yahoo.com.” Murray appeared in a quick 15 second spot for Yahoo on Sunday —

    Yes, Yahoo still offers free email addresses — and apparently Bill Murray can be found at his, “Billhimself@yahoo.com.” Murray appeared in a quick 15 second spot for Yahoo on Sunday — apparently which might be considered the company’s first Super Bowl ad in more than two decades — except that it wasn’t a national ad, but rather one that ran in local markets throughout the evening. 

    In the spot, Murray looks into a mirror — and sees a dog. “Have you ever looked in the mirror and not seen yourself?” he says. “I don’t think I need professional help, but a skilled amateur, maybe? Little help?” He then holds up that email address. 

    “Our TV commercial is the tip of the iceberg,” said Yahoo CCO/interim lead of marketing Sona Iliffe-Moon. “Everyone watches the game with their phone in their hand, so we’re making a big play for the ‘second screen,’ and in this case we’re giving people ways to engage with Yahoo throughout the evening – Yahoo, Yahoo Mail, Yahoo Sports and more. We hope viewers will spend some of their game night discovering Yahoo in a whole new way.”

    Here’s what you get when you “email” Murray:

    “Thanks for emailing.

    “Sure you’re thinking, what’s this Murray doing in the middle of the game? Is he broke now? The usual gambling problems? Ugly divorce? Understandable reaction but this is not purely a big money sell out. There’s also a dog in my mirror! A real dog where my face should be and always has been.

    “So kindly absorb that horror, just walk 1 mile in my paws.

    “Woke up earlier, slept well then sat quietly did some stretching, used the rumble roller and thought, “OK another great day to scrub my teeth.” And, hello! Right in the mirror not the face I know so well, but a mutt. I really don’t care that he’s not a pedigree, but…he is a dog. What did the man say, a dog has taken my place, my face place.

    “This dog right here.

    “And the weird thing, more weird thing, he looks kind of familiar, which is no comfort at all. People ask, are you a cat person or a dog person? Dog person. And, now, literally a dog person. The fear hits but I remember my neighbor, Dr. Gerry, a legendary veterinarian totally qualified to respond to any canine emergency.

    “Where would you imagine a vet named Dr. Gerry, wearing a “Don’t Lick Me I’m Allergic” button pinned to his scrubs, would send me? Just take a guess and you’ll learn that the Darkest Hour is just before the dawn…

    “Seriously, email me back with your best guess. Then I’ll tell you the rest.

    “What else? Oh yeah, no animals were hurt while writing this.

    “Damn, a man in a jam — Bill”


    Email again, and get this:

    “The business card read, Platinum Pet Premonitions. That’s correct. A pet psychic. Don’t judge me. Her website seemed legit, you know, for a pet psychic and appropriate to my desperation level.

    “I’m imagining mysterious yard bags hidden under the front porch. I pull up to the house and she’s already waiting, which scares me because I didn’t call ahead. She immediately asks “Is your dog living or dead?” What would you have said??

    “Sorry for the interference on this video. Maybe caused by paranormal activity? I should ask Danny.

    “What now? Email some advice, a poem, a recipe. Whatever you got. I’ll reply and let you know how it goes.

    “More or less to come. Bill”


    And then one more email:

    “So I turn to family, they already seem beneath the rock named Bill. Brother Brian arrives on a moment’s notice. Or should I say, comes when called? With him as my mirror, he looked back at me and saw what was missing. What I had been missing and couldn’t see.

    “Yes, as a little kid, we had a dog named Peppy, a Border Collie, who was a sister of the Salacki’s dog, Shep. She had one blue eye one brown eye and loved to chase cars.

    “Peppy was certainly peppy. She had a lot of energy, a lot of energy. She could play all day, with all nine of us and still have time to work her herding skills on Fords and Chevys. I’m betting our cozy home was already urchin overrun and our parents were afraid that Peppy might one day teach Nancy or Johnny how to chase cars. So, one day, Peppy was gone. Gone. Now Brian tells me Peppy ended up happy on a friend of my dad‘s farm somewhere in Wisconsin.

    “We were told that she ran away or got sick and had to be put down, hit by a car, or something. Whatever story was told is long-lost to memory. They could have told us the truth. Oh, we would have cried, loud, loud and taking turns, enough to wake up the Wexlers behind us who heard everything.

    “I never got to say goodbye to Peppy. Until today. What the heck, Super Bowl Sunday. It was Peppy I was seeing in the mirror. After all these years, she came back to say goodbye to me…and to let me say goodbye to her. Maybe she liked me the best of all the kids.

    “I suppose we should never be horrified by what we see in the mirror. Or maybe we should never wish to be content with what we see in the mirror.

    “Take care, Bill”

    Source: Variety