Luckhaus & Brubaker Sweets & Treats: Bringing Elegance and Fun to Charleston Sweets

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 By Mark A. Leon

Several years ago, I stopped into Luckhaus & Brubaker for a thank you gift.  After spending a quick moment browsing the inventory and taking in the indulgent smells of chocolate, coconut and peanut butter, I ordered a coconut macaroon with chocolate ganache, Key Lime truffle and Baileys truffle.  They were beautifully wrapped in a clear plastic bag with a red ribbon and a brown logo sticker.  A simple and elegant thank you gift for a generous favor.

Our love for Luckhaus & Brubaker goes back even further when I was spending a Friday morning and afternoon celebrating the birthday of my dear friend Shannon.  Typically, birthdays are days of festivities and celebration, but for Shannon, this day also holds a bittersweet memory.  Per her request, the morning and afternoon would be just her and I.  Naturally, you need cake, so we bought a bottle of champagne and orange juice, went to Luckhaus & Brubaker and ordered the Coconut Vanilla Cake.  As we sat outside at 11 AM on a Friday morning drinking mimosas and enjoying each savory bite of this cake, we knew we found something special.  That is just one moment that of many that defines a small business that cares.

Why should you go to Luckhaus & Brubaker?

Picture a mini Willy Wonka factory, where visions of chocolate lollipops, croissants, truffles, pies, and tarts dance in your head.  All around, life size animals built from the sweetest things on Earth, welcome you with a smile.  This is that little end of the puzzle piece of heaven called Luckhaus and Brubaker.

Each visit, you are greeted with a smile and laid back, enjoy your experience welcome.  No pressure here.  Take in the smells, look all around and ask us if you need assistance.  Each visit is a one of a kind.  One day may be the fruit tart or the Grand Marnier truffle.  Maybe a fruit filled croissant or Tiramisu.  Sometimes you go in for a cupcake or cinnamon roll and walk out with a homemade dog treat for your puppy and a chocolate covered pretzel for the little one.  Make sure you sneak a chocolate bar in for later.

As a self proclaimed anti-sweets person, I am taken back by the precision detail and explosiveness of the products.  A single 3 inch truffle can last five or more bites because you are offered a wealth of decadent flavor with each and every bite.

One of the more remarkable parts of my visits is the selfless feeling of guilt and generosity all wrapped up in one.  With treats for children, adults or elegant affairs as well as baked goods and coffee, you can treat yourself, buy a few gifts or make the children smile all in one visit.

We cannot say enough about the incredible prices.  With options to meet all budgets, the fine staff of L&B want you to savor your experience without emptying your wallet.

Their shop extends to your home with an amazing menu of cakes, tarts, pies, cupcakes, cookies and homemade ice cream to meet all your catering needs.

Come in for the smells, walk around and enjoy the museum of chocolate statues and leave with a feeling of satisfaction and warmth.  Luckhaus & Brubaker is located at 1939 Maybank Highway, James Island, SC and note, they are closed on Mondays.

 

8 Desirable Places around Charleston, South Carolina to Escape Life

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By Minta Pavliscsak

Ever have one of “those” days? Sure you have; we all have. The type of day where you just want to be alone and escape life for a bit. Between work, school, family, friends, and the constant connection with technology, places where you can just be alone are difficult to come by.

However, as long as you do not check in on Facebook or Yelp when you get there, you can seclude yourself and escape life if you wish to do so. Turn off your phone, bring a book, magazine, your puppy, a notebook, or simply your own thoughts, take a few deep breaths and enjoy your solitude.

Here are a few of the best hidden places in Charleston to escape life, if only for a few minutes.

Folly Beach: You have a few options here. The best places to go to be alone with your thoughts are as far east as you can go on the island, and as far west as you can go. On the east end you will enjoy a scenic view of Morris Island Lighthouse. The far west end is a bit further of a walk, but totally worth it. The walk there is part of the destination itself.

Charleston Waterfront Park swings at night: There’s not a sound much more soothing than the sound of water, and when accompanied by the feeling of gently swinging back and forth under the moonlight, worries seem to melt away. Bring a comfy sweatshirt, even in summertime as it tends to get a little chilly.

Melton Peter Demetre Park (formally Sunrise Park): If you want a unique view of Charleston and the surrounding areas, here is your spot. Nestled deep within James Island, this is the perfect place to start your day or spend the afternoon in peacefulness.  In the distance you can view the Cooper River Bridge or the church steeples of the peninsula.

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Allan Park

Fishing and Crabbing Dock at James Island County Park: Even if there is someone fishing, they usually just nod to say hi and focus on catching a big one. The dock is large enough for you to have your own spot to yourself. Bring your fishing pole, crab net, or just sit and enjoy the view.

Allan Park: Located just off of Ashley Avenue near Hampton Park, Allan Park is a splendid half acre of tranquility. There is a large fountain in the center and plenty of grass for picnics. There are also benches around the fountain if a blanket is not your thing.

Caw Caw Interpretive Center: Located about sixteen miles from downtown Charleston, Caw Caw Interpretive Center has remained virtually untouched over the years. Once several rice plantations, it is now home to a multitude of wildlife which you can enjoy along over six miles of trails winding throughout swamplands, cypress trees and boardwalks.

Magnolia Cemetery: Not many people think “relaxing” when it comes to cemeteries, but trust us on this one. Magnolia Cemetery is located on the banks of the Cooper River and in our opinion has to be one of the most beautiful places one could spend their resting days. Taking a stroll through this 92 acre stretch of land can give a whole new meaning to “escaping life”.

MUSC Urban Farm:  Right in the heart of the medical district off of Bee Street between Ashley and Courtenay is a safe haven.  In the heart of this square escape is an educational community garden where you will find everything from lemons, to rosemary to sunflowers with free gardening and nature lessons weekly.  Just outside the garden are open grassy areas and benches to relax, have a meal or just daydream.  Also, enclosed in this area are stretching equipment to keep your body physically fit.  This is a true mental and physical realm of health and solitude in the heart of the Charleston peninsula.

We know there are more, but we do not want to give away all of the secrets! If you have a favorite spot that you like to go to escape life and would like to share, please comment below.

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Middleburg Communities to Develop 211-Unit Single Family Rental Community in Johns Island, South Carolina

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Hamlet Maybank to be built on Johns Island, one of the fastest-growing submarkets in the MSA

VIENNA, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Middleburg Communities (“Middleburg”) today announced it has closed and plans to commence construction on a 211-unit single family housing community on an approximately 46-acre land parcel in Johns Island, South Carolina, one of the fastest-growing submarkets in the Charleston Metropolitan Statistical Area. Middleburg plans to leverage its in-house construction capabilities to transform the land into a vibrant neighborhood community that will offer individuals and families the opportunity to partake in the benefits of single-family living without the hassle of property maintenance and upkeep. The community, to be known as Hamlet Maybank, is a joint venture between Middleburg and Parse Capital (a subsidiary of The Wolff Company).

“Hamlet Maybank promises to deliver an exceptional single-family living experience in the heart of one of America’s most active submarkets”

Hamlet Maybank will be a low-density multifamily development that will feature a mix of detached cottages, duplexes and townhomes with floorplans designed to cater to today’s active lifestyles. Middleburg plans to commence construction in early-2023, with units coming online beginning mid-2024. All homes in the community will feature best-in-class amenities with environmentally friendly designs and private backyards that will allow residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors – a luxury that is unavailable in most traditional multifamily developments.

“Hamlet Maybank promises to deliver an exceptional single-family living experience in the heart of one of America’s most active submarkets,” said Selim Tay-Agbozo, President of Middleburg Development. “The value proposition our Hamlet brand offers is unmatched – all of the comforts of home ownership with the ease and flexibility of renting and no down payment required – and that is why we are experiencing overwhelmingly strong demand in the other high-growth Southeastern markets where we are developing this prototype. We have no doubt we will experience similar interest at Hamlet Maybank, especially as more and more individuals choose to relocate to hotspots like Charleston and seek out traditional neighborhood environments to raise families.”

In addition to several high-quality interior features that Hamlet Maybank will offer, including spacious kitchens with islands, granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances, Bluetooth keyless entry, Nest thermostats and large walk-in closets, the community will also offer its residents a number of resort-style amenities, such as a freestanding clubhouse and pool, walking paths, tree-lined streets and professional landscaping. Floorplans will range in size from 785 to 1,694 square feet, with monthly rents starting at $1,930.

The proposed site of Hamlet Maybank, located at 2029 Harlow Way in Charleston, sits just 20 minutes from Downtown, more than 68,000 jobs and a number of the area’s main attractions, including beaches, golf courses, restaurants and nightlife. What’s more, given its natural beauty, welcoming lifestyle and economic development, Johns Island has experienced a 50 percent increase in population growth over the past 12 years and is projected to continue being a preferred destination for people of all ages.

Financing for Hamlet Maybank was provided by First National Bank.

About Middleburg Communities 
Middleburg is a leading investment firm maximizing value through a fully integrated approach to the acquisition, development, construction and operations of high-quality attainable rental housing. Since 2004, Middleburg has acquired and developed more than 22,000 apartment units, executing over $3 billion in transactions. The Middleburg team shares a vision for greater value creation through community impact. The firm’s success is rooted in a genuine desire to serve its local communities in thoughtful and holistic ways. Middleburg embraces people, property, and partnerships to enhance the lives of others, contribute positively to its neighborhoods and maximize real returns for partners. For more information, please visit www.middleburgcommunities.com.

About Parse Capital 
Parse Capital, a subsidiary of The Wolff Company, is a provider of joint-venture and preferred equity alongside sponsors for the development, recapitalization, and acquisition of residential communities within the United States. Since 2013, Parse has made over 75 investments for a total of $1.2 billion in equity deployed. The Wolff Company is a fully-integrated real estate firm that traces its legacy back to 1949. Wolff focuses its investment activity within the residential sector and has acquired or developed over 50,000 residential units since inception. For more information, please visit Parse at www.parsecap.com and The Wolff Company at www.awolff.com.

Charleston Based UNITS Moving and Portal Storage Donates $10,000 to Operation BBQ Relief to Assist Hurricane Ian Relief Efforts

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Operation BBQ Relief Serves Hot Meals to Families, First Responders in Southwest Florida

CHARLESTON, SC / UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage is pleased to contribute to Hurricane Ian relief efforts by donating $10,000 to Operation BBQ Relief, an organization on the ground in Florida, providing hot meals to families and first responders.

UNITS, Thursday, October 20, 2022, Press release picture
UNITS, Thursday, October 20, 2022, Press release picture

Armed with a caravan of cooks, mobile pits, kitchens, and volunteers, Operation BBQ Relief delivers the healing power of BBQ in times of need by feeding first responders and communities affected by natural disasters. So far, the organization has served more than 500,000 meals to those in Southwest Florida in the wake of Hurricane Ian.- ADVERTISEMENT –

UNITS’ $10,000 donation will help further the mission of Operation BBQ Relief to serve communities in need, like those in southwest Florida, and allow the volunteer teams to focus on providing hot meals, hope, friendship, and compassion.

UNITS has always been a proud supporter of this country’s first responders, which made partnering with Operation BBQ Relief a perfect way to support those who are dealing with the devastation of Hurricane Ian.

“It is extremely important to us that the brave men and women who get called on during natural disasters know that they have the support of organizations from around the United States,” said UNITS Moving and Portable Storage CEO Michael McAlhany. “These individuals put themselves in harm’s way, and by partnering with Operation BBQ Relief, UNITS can help provide a warm meal to these remarkable first responders who are working day and night to help those in need. We consider it a privilege to support their efforts.”

Similarly, Operation BBQ Relief relies on donors like UNITS to help mobilize their 14,000 volunteers, including world champion pitmasters and culinary teams, to cook up over 60,000 delicious meals each day.

“Operation BBQ Relief is honored to team up with UNITS to serve communities impacted by Hurricane Ian,” added Operation BBQ Relief CEO and co-founder Stan Hays. “We are grateful for the support from UNITS as we serve over 500,000 hot meals to first responders and families in southwest Florida.”

ABOUT UNITS Moving and Portable Storage

Established in 2004, UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage was founded by Michael McAlhany during the emergence of the moving and portable storage industry. The company’s mission was to provide personal customer service and supply the most innovative and highest-quality equipment. Nationwide UNITS Moving and Portable Storage are locally owned and operated and familiar with the communities they serve. UNITS Moving and Portable Storage offers high-quality constructed containers featuring barn-style doors and all-steel construction.

The UNITS Moving and Portable Storage container is clean, weather-resistant, spacious, and available in 12-ft. and 16-ft. lengths. The UNITS Moving and Portable Storage ROBO Delivery System is the most technologically advanced in the industry, virtually eliminating any shift in contents when lifting containers on and off transport vehicles and placing them in tight areas where competitors cannot. The container may be placed in a UNITS Moving and Portable Storage service center or at the customer’s desired location, always at ground level for easy access. The national network of UNITS Moving and Portable Storage and Service Centers currently services over 3,200 cities in over 32 states throughout North America and continues to grow. To learn more visit www.unitsstorage.com.

About Operation BBQ Relief

Operation BBQ Relief is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports communities following natural disasters with hot barbeque meals to those in need and on the front lines. After the devastating tornado in Joplin, Missouri, in May 2011, competitive pitmasters from eight different states answered the call to feed displaced families and first responders and served over 120,000 meals over 13 days. This experience was the catalyst that started what Operation BBQ Relief is today. With the help of more than 14,000 volunteers, Operation BBQ Relief has provided over 10 million meals throughout the United States. Armed with a caravan of cooks, mobile pits, kitchens, and volunteers, Operation BBQ Relief delivers the healing power of BBQ in times of need, feeding first responders and communities affected by natural disasters, along with year-round efforts to fight hunger through The Always Serving Project® and Camp OBR™ programs. For more information, visit obr.org or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @opbbqrelief.

Media Contact:
Jennifer Williams
919.459.3592
jwilliams@919marketing.com

SOURCE: UNITS

Tattooed Senorita Cantina on Folly Road Temporarily Closed

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Ménage from Rick at Tattooed Senorita via Facebook

We had an unfortunate event happen to our restaurant last night. The flooring in the dining room caught on fire causing extensive damage. We are thankful that no one was injured. However, we will be closed until all repairs are made. We apologize for any inconvenience.

We send our gratitude to the James Island Fire Department who spent several hours taming the fire. You all were amazing! Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

-Rick

Official Website

U.S. News Ranks South Carolina 42nd Best State

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The latest U.S. News state rankings have been released and South Carolina is ranked 42nd in the nation. This is the same ranking as 2021.

Click Here for the full report.

Here are the key metrics you need to know:

Healthcare

Economy

South Carolina is ranked 11th in the nation in growth

Opportunity

Crime

Infrastructure

Source Link

Private Equity Firm Northland acquires 511 Meetings in Charleston, South Carolina

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Northland, a national private equity real estate firm, has purchased 511 Meeting in Charleston. The residence is Northland’s third investment in the Charleston area.

According to a press release, 511 Meeting consists of 221 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, 33 of which are rent-restricted. The mid-rise, podium-style building includes a fully-equipped fitness center with a separate yoga studio, bike storage and repair area, and a second-story pool deck with a fire pit and grilling stations. The modern building also features a guest lounge with a pool table, foosball and bar area, as well as 2,960 square feet of retail space occupied by Blum, a coffee and wine bar.

“Since our entry into the Charleston market in 2019 with The Standard on James Island and Wharf 7 on Daniel Island, we have actively sought additional expansion opportunities on the peninsula,” said Bruno Setteducati, Northlands’ director of investment, in the press release. “Located in the North Meeting Street neighborhood, 511 Meeting offers residents proximity to all that Charleston’s Midtown has to offer. The mixed-use property’s thoughtful integration into the historic streetscape and prime location are some of the many factors that make it a differentiator in this market and an excellent fit for Northland’s portfolio.”

Located on the peninsula in the North Meeting and Upper King neighborhoods, 511 Meeting hosts residents just one block from King Street.

Since 2019, Northland has invested more than $200 million in Charleston to assemble a portfolio of 813 Class A apartment buildings, the press release said. Northland owns and operates a diversified multi-family portfolio that includes more than 26,000 units across the United States. The company has $8 billion in assets under management.

Ross Norton can be reached at 864-720-1222.

The Natural: New sports bar and arcade coming to Johns Island and they are hiring!

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“And then? And then when I walked down the street people would’ve looked and they would’ve said there goes Roy Hobbs, the best there ever was in this game. ” Roy Hobbs

A brand new hang out is coming to Johns Island. For you fans of Roy Hobbs, this is a dream. The Natural is a Sports Bar and Arcade concept opening soon on Johns Island.

They are currently hiring all positions. You can fill out a form here or call 434-327-3907 to learn more.