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Lowcountry

5 things you may not have known about the Gullah Geechee community in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina and Georgia

May 28, 2024

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

Here are 5 things you may not have known about the Gullah Geechee community in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina and Georgia:

1. The Gullah language is a creole language combining English with various West African languages. It has unique grammar, intonation, and vocabulary influenced by the enslaved Africans’ mother tongues.

2. Gullah cuisine evolved from enslaved African women blending ingredients and techniques from their homelands with local foods like rice, seafood, and vegetables. Iconic dishes like gumbo, shrimp and grits, and red rice originated from their ingenuity.

3. Sweetgrass basket weaving is an important Gullah craft with roots in African basket-making traditions. The intricate sewn patterns and utilitarian baskets were passed down through generations. Please follow Charleston’s Corey Alston, whose exquisite basket weaving skills date back generations.

4. The bright “haint blue” color seen on porch ceilings is a Gullah tradition believed to ward off evil spirits. This practice originated in West African spiritual beliefs.

5. Isolated on the Sea Islands for generations allowed the Gullah Geechee people to retain more African cultural influences compared to other African American communities. Their language, foodways, crafts, and folk traditions have strong African retentions.

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Lowcountry

Charleston Local Spotlight: Non-Profit Warrior Surf Foundation

May 28, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

“There is something about the ocean. You feel cleansed.” – Andrew Manzi, Founder, Warrior Surf

Challenges Veterans Face

Veterans transitioning back to civilian life often face emotional, physical and psychological challenges assimilating back into a life they once knew, but has forever changed due to the experiences and challenges they faced in uniform.

Mission and Value of Warrior Surf

Finding an outlet, a clan, a place where they are understood with patience, compassion and acceptance is a gift upon itself.

That is the true mission of Folly Beach’s Non-Profit Warrior Surf.

The vision statement says it all: “We establish hope in the lives of veterans and their families – One wave at a time.”

Warrior Surf has grown from a passion project made up on a canopy at Folly Beach and a few inspired individuals, led by Andrew Manzi, with a vision to a community of veterans, educators, ambassadors and healers.

We are honored to have this organization as part of the Lowcountry community. Their dedication and commitment to the tireless kindness they have given to all those that have and continue to go through their programs and remain as part of the Warrior Surf family is an inspiration.

Catch the wave and learn more about Warrior Surf Today!

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Photo Credit: Warrior Surf

Lowcountry

Sea Tow® Shares Seven Tips to Prepare for a Day on the Water this Boating Season

May 26, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Southold, NY – May 26, 2024 – As boating season goes to full throttle, Sea Tow®, recognized throughout the marine industry as Your Road Service at Sea®, predicts a busy season out on the water. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s (NMMA) 2023 Economic Impact Study on Recreational Boating, there are an estimated 85 million Americans who go boating each year.

Summer is the perfect time to embark on a boating adventure and enjoy the beauty of the water. Whether it’s a seasoned boater or someone new to the experience, proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable day on the boat. Sea Tow is sharing a step-by-step guide for boaters to prepare for a day out on the water.

Check the Weather Forecast – Before heading out, always check the weather forecast for the day. Summer weather can be unpredictable, so boaters should ensure they’re prepared for any changes in conditions. Avoid going out during storms or high winds, and plan accordingly based on the forecast.
Prepare The Boat – Inspect the boat thoroughly before departure. Check the engine, fuel levels and overall condition of the vessel. Ensure all safety equipment such as life jackets, fire extinguishers and navigation lights are in good working order and readily accessible.
Pack Essential Supplies – Gather essential supplies for a comfortable day on the water. This includes sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, towels, snacks and plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated under the sun. Bring appropriate clothing layers in case of temperature changes or unexpected weather.
Plan The Itinerary – Decide on the route and destinations for the day. Whether boaters are fishing, cruising, or engaging in water sports, having a plan ensures they make the most of their time on the water. Boaters should familiarize themself with the area’s navigational markers and potential hazards.
Review Safety Procedures – Ensure everyone on board understands basic safety procedures and knows the location of safety equipment. Teach passengers how to wear and use life jackets properly. Assign designated roles such as a lookout or spotter if engaging in water activities. Designate a Sober Skipper for the day.
Follow Local Regulations – Captains shouldfamiliarize themself with local boating regulations, including speed limits, no-wake zones and anchoring restrictions. Adhering to these rules ensures everyone’s safety on board. Check out U.S. Coast Guard Boating to stay up to date on the boating regulations in the area.
Consider On-Water Assistance Services – Have a backup plan and consider becoming a member of an on-water assistance provider, such as Sea Tow. These services provide assistance in case of dead batteries, mechanical breakdowns, fuel issues or other unexpected mishaps on the water.

By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, boaters will be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable day on the water. Whether boaters are cruising along the coastline or exploring their local lake, proper preparation ensures a fun-filled boating experience.

“We want boaters to enjoy their time on the water and that starts with being prepared and knowledgeable of best practices,” said Sea Tow President Kristen Frohnhoefer. “Sea Tow Captains are a boater’s resource on and off their boat, and on and off the water. We’re confident that these tips from Sea Tow captains will ensure a fun day on the water for all this summer.”

At the forefront of on-water assistance since 1983, Sea Tow marked its 40^th anniversary in business in 2023. In 500+ ports nationwide including the continental U.S., Alaska and Puerto Rico, Sea Tow is a member-driven, franchise-based business and technological innovation has been a large driver of its evolution and expansion. Having broken barriers in the industry, it is the premier provider of non-emergency on-water assistance, and also handles salvage and recovery services, response to catastrophic events and marine spill response. Sea Tow is Your Road Service at Sea®.

With a Sea Tow membership, boaters pay one annual rate of $249/year for Gold Card membership and $169/year for Lake Card membership and receive the most comprehensive on-water assistance services available. Sea Tow offers its members free boat towing in their home area, tow coverage to repair facilities on all covered vessels, alternatives to towing such as battery jumps, fuel delivery, covered ungroundings disentanglements and more, along with additional paid on-water services such as boat salvage and recovery, vessel for hire and environmental response.

About Sea Tow Services International, Inc. 

Sea Tow Services International Inc., better known as Sea Tow®, has been the innovative and premier leader of on-water assistance for 40+ years. Servicing the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, members are provided with a 24/7 connection to Coast Guard-Licensed Captains. The pioneering concept, founded by Captain Joseph Frohnhoefer, was established in Southold, NY when the United States Coast Guard ceased response to non-emergency assistance calls. In addition to on-water assistance, the franchise network handles salvage and recovery operations, and responds to natural disasters, environmental hazards and oil spill cleanups. Visit seatow.com to learn more or follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

Lowcountry

Group Workshops Now Available at Charleston’s Newest Jewelry Store, Little Bird

May 24, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Little Bird, Charleston’s newest coastal-inspired jewelry store, is now offering workshops ideal for bachelorette parties and friend groups to design one-of-a-kind pieces of art that don’t tarnish when worn at the gym or in the pool/shower/ocean!

Attendees can make a gold or silver necklace ($65/person) or pair of earrings ($59/person) using a variety of rare stones like quartz, turquoise, black pearl and ruby. Workshops are BYOB so groups can sip while they design, and all attendees receive 15% off all Little Bird pieces for the day. Workshops last 90 minutes and have a four-person minimum and a 17-person maximum.

Workshops can be booked on the events page of littlebirdchs.com.

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Lowcountry

5 rewarding volunteer opportunities in Charleston, SC where you can give back to the community

May 24, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

1. Volunteer at the South Carolina Aquarium through their Anchor Volunteer Program. You can engage with guests in education, work behind the scenes in animal care, or assist with conservation efforts. Benefits include an Aquarium membership, field trips, and recognition events. The four categories of volunteer support include: Conservation, Education, Animal Care and Partner Volunteers.

2. Volunteer with the Historic Charleston Foundation for their annual Festival of Houses and Gardens or at their house museums. Volunteers receive benefits like museum tickets, tour admission, and lectures based on hours served.

3. Participate in The Great Charleston Cleanup organized by Keep Charleston Beautiful. You can coordinate a litter sweep with a group, adopt a block to clean, or request a DIY litter cleanup kit as an individual.

4. Volunteer with Charleston Dorchester Mental Health Center to advocate for mental illness and health awareness. Opportunities may include peer support, outreach events, and educational programs.

Specific areas of focus:

Participating in various anti-stigma community events
Assisting with administrative and scheduling needs
Assisting our I.T. department and more
Working with our Mobile Crisis Unit
Assisting with our Annual Mental Health Conference

5. Volunteer with the Charleston Parks Conservancy by assisting with sustainability efforts like composting and recycling at their events like Brunch in the Park or Picnic in the Park. You can help divert waste from landfills. Volunteer opportunities fall under: Gardening, Programs & Events, Water in the Parks and Corporate & Community Events.

By volunteering with these organizations, you can contribute to environmental conservation, historic preservation, mental health advocacy, and community beautification efforts in Charleston.

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Lowcountry

Medal of Honor Museum at Patriots Point Set to Re-Open on May 25, 2024 After $3.5 Million Renovation

May 23, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Museum expansion on USS Yorktown, funded by the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, focuses on interactive storytelling about nation’s greatest heroes

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – The Congressional Medal of Honor Society debuted the fully renovated Medal of Honor Museum at Patriots Point with a day of ceremonies and events recognizing the transformative $3.5 million renovation project that highlights the legacy, leadership and core values of the nation’s highest award for military valor.

The Museum on the USS Yorktown, which opens to the public on May 25, tells the story of the Medal of Honor and its Recipients through modern immersive exhibits and never-before-seen artifacts meant to inspire personal and collective action by visitors. The experience takes visitors on a journey from the military training that each of the Recipients, along with all Service Members, received, through the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War and the Global War on Terror.

At each stop, visitors will share in the stories of the Recipients and learn about the values behind their acts of heroism. Information about the Museum renovation can be found here and here.

“This is a Museum about extraordinary service and sacrifice,” said Britt Slabinski, a Medal of Honor Recipient and president of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. “But it’s also a Museum that highlights the potential in all of us to do heroic things in our everyday lives. Our hope is that visitors will walk in as one person and walk out a slightly different person.”

The Medal of Honor Museum fits seamlessly into the overall Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, which includes the Yorktown, the USS Laffey destroyer and a Vietnam firebase experience. The Medal of Honor Museum was designated by Congress under the National Medal of Honor Memorial Act in 1999 as a National Medal of Honor Site.

“We are excited and honored to welcome our visitors to the completely reimagined Medal of Honor Museum at Patriots Point,” said Allison Hunt, executive director of the Patriots Point Development Authority. “The stories of extraordinary courage and selfless service told within the museum will be a powerful resource in supporting our important mission to promote American pride and patriotism.”

The renovations of the Museum were funded by the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, which is developing a national leadership program based on the core values of the Medal: courage, sacrifice, integrity, commitment, patriotism and citizenship. Besides a digital-based curriculum, the Center for Leadership plans to build a $75 million conference center and values-based immersive experience on land adjacent to the Yorktown.

“Our Board of Directors agreed to fund the reimagined Medal of Honor Museum because we firmly believe the stories that are told within its walls will provide visitors with a deeper sense of what it means to be an American and provide inspiration for those who visit,” said Thomas Mundell, president and chief executive officer of the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership. “Not everyone is called to the extremes of military service as the Recipients were, but this Museum shows that leadership can be nurtured and that we all have the ability to be heroes in our homes and our communities.”

The museum’s design, by M. Catton & Co. of Le Mars, Iowa, encourages physical interaction and personal introspection, preserving the legacy of the 3,536 awards of the Medal and the 19 dual Recipients.

New artifacts will include:

The New Testament & Psalms and The Gospel of St. John that Medal of Honor Recipient Robert Maxwell carried in World War II.
Vietnam War Recipient James Fleming’s aviator gloves and the navigational analog computer” he used during the war as a helicopter pilot.
World War I Recipient Dwite Schaffner’s Medal of Honor and American Expeditionary ID.

The unveiling of the new Museum was preceded by a panel discussion on leadership and values in the Stover Theater on the Yorktown that featured Recipients Harvey “Barney” Barnum and Ryan Pitts, along with Tonya M. Matthews, Ph.D., CEO and President of the International African American Museum in Charleston. The panel was moderated by Leyla Gulen of Fox24 News.

Recipients also visited Summerville High School, as part of the Society’s Character Development Program, which is a values-based curriculum for grades K-12.

The Museum opens at a time when there is renewed attention to the Medal of Honor. In March, the Society hosted a gathering of nearly 30 organizations around the country with ties to the Medal of Honor in hopes of amplifying the importance of the Medal and its core values. The Society will be the centerpiece of this in terms of coordination and promotion.

About the Congressional Medal of Honor Society

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor and its Recipients, inspiring Americans, and supporting the Recipients as they connect with communities across America. Chartered by Congress in 1958, its membership consists exclusively of those individuals who have received the Medal of Honor. There are 61 living Recipients. Learn more about the Medal of Honor and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s initiatives at www.cmohs.org.

About the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership

The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership’s mission is to inspire, develop empower, and challenge leaders through the values embodied by our country’s Medal of Honor Recipients. With a nationwide digital educational platform and audience-curated visitor experiences, Americans of all ages, backgrounds, and locations will learn leadership values of courage, sacrifice, citizenship, integrity, commitment, and patriotism to inspire them to transform lives, shape the future, and carry forward the best traditions of what it means to be an American. For more information, see www.mohcenterforleadership.org.

About Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, on the Charleston Harbor, is the #1 attraction in Mount Pleasant, S.C., and is home to a fleet of National Historic Landmark ships, and the only Vietnam Support Base Camp in the U.S. Patriots Point is also headquarters to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and the agency’s official Medal of Honor Museum. Visit https://www.patriotspoint.org/ for more details or find us on social media at @patriots_point.

Lowcountry

Joint Base Charleston welcomes home Airmen from first AFFORGEN XAB deployment

May 22, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Airman First Class Carl Good, 628th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. – Joint Base Charleston celebrated the return of its Airmen from the inaugural Air Force Force Generation Expeditionary Air Base deployment, also known as AFFORGEN XAB.

Recently, JB Charleston welcomed back 250 Airmen from Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, who played integral roles in the success of the new Air Force deployment model.

Their contributions were pivotal as they served as the command-and-control and establishment force elements for the XAB.

“This is a historic moment for the Air Force and Joint Base Charleston,” said Col. Adeleke Ekundayo, 628th Mission Support Group commander and XAB commander. “It is the first time we have deployed as a team and returned as a team under the new AFFORGEN model.”

AFFORGEN represents a transformative shift in Air Force readiness and deployment, operating on a 24-month cycle: reset, prepare, certify, deploy. This cycle enhances predictability for commanders and bolsters Airmen’s preparedness for future conflicts. Airmen undergo thorough training in advance, ensuring smooth transitions, skill enhancement, and readiness for action.

At the heart of the deployment, JB Charleston Airmen served as the central hub overseeing and managing the operations of the XAB. Additionally, JB Charleston was instrumental in establishing all essential elements for the base’s functionality, from facilities to personnel, ensuring operational readiness and effectiveness.

In celebrating the return of these dedicated Airmen and their crucial role in advancing the AFFORGEN deployment model, JB Charleston underscores the Air Force’s commitment to readiness and adaptability in an ever-evolving global landscape.

“It has been more than 20 years since the Air Force has changed the way it presents and generates forces,” Ekundayo said. “This first AFFORGEN deployment is a step toward creating a capable and sustainable force for the future warfighting mission.”

Source link: Joint Base Charleston

Lowcountry

8 Charming Charleston, South Carolina Gift Shops that offer inspired and unique products

May 22, 2024

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

By Mark A. Leon

Charleston, South Carolina is renowned for its charming gift shops offering locally-made and inspired products. Some of the top-rated gift shops in the area include:

Indigo, located downtown (4 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC), specializes in handmade items by local artists and carefully curated gifts from across the country. Local Love CHS on James Island (1238 Camp Rd Suite E, Charleston, SC) focuses exclusively on locally and sustainably made products, supporting Charleston artisans.

The Flower Cottage (31 Elizabeth St, Charleston, SC), a long-standing floral and gift shop, arranges beautiful fresh flowers and offers unique gifts for all occasions. Pluff Mud Mercantile in West Ashley (2408 Ashley River Road, Unit R, Charleston, SC) curates a selection of apparel, jewelry, home decor, and locally-made items like candles and soaps.

Well Furnished located at 34 Windermere Blvd, Charleston, SC, provides an intriguing mix of furniture, textiles, art, and jewelry for home decor. The Paper Canopy located at 93 Spring Street, Suite C
Charleston, SC, offers carefully curated gifts, paper goods, card and more for the creative spirit in all of us. They also offer workshops for all ages.

Other notable mentions are Tiger Lily Florist (1614 Camp Road, Charleston, SC) for floral gifts and Southern Christmas Charleston (75 S Market St, Charleston, SC), specializing in festive ornaments and decor year-round. The city’s downtown area also has several specialty shops worth exploring.

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Lowcountry

GovCIO, a $1B government contractor, opens North Charleston office

May 22, 2024

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

GovCIO, a technology company government contractor with more than $1 billion in government contracts, officially opened its first Charleston office and high-tech lab strategically located less than a mile away from Joint Base Charleston and U.S. Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic.

A ribbon cutting and reception was held recently at 1217 Remount Road in North Charleston with members of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, AFCEA Low County Chapter and other stakeholders in attendance.

The location will provide a convenient location for the GovCIO team to host technical demonstrations for its government partners and provide a flexible space to collaborate on existing and future projects, said Emyly Hall, senior communications and marketing specialist with GovCIO.

“The primary drivers behind this office location were proximity to NIWC/Joint Base Charleston and the ability for the building to contain both an office and a lab capable of providing a significant amount of power for our highly-technical development projects,” James Buckingham, vice president, Defense Services Group at GovCIO, said.

The GovCIO office will support up to 14 employees with several more working at lab stations, Hall said. Twelve employees relocated to the Charleston area as new hires and GovCIO anticipates adding several new full-time positions to the Noth Charleston office as the company continues to grow.

“This move signals our enduring commitment to our partners, including the U.S. Naval Information Warfare Center and we are excited about this next chapter and the expanded opportunities this new office brings,” stated John Anderson, GovCIO sector president, National Security Services, in a press release.

Over the past year, GovCIO has grown to over 3,000 employees globally, with annual revenue increasing by 17%. The company has contracts with the Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Postal Service, U.S. Military, IRS, NASA, the National Institute of Health and more.

On May 2, the company announced it was one of five awardees on a five-year $1.5 billion total value contract with the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (AOUSC) Judiciary IT Services (JITS) Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) to provide a full range of IT services, technical and management expertise, information technology solutions and capabilities and nationwide judiciary support.

Source link: Charleston Regional Business Journal

Lowcountry

Herd Provisions is one of the most satisfying dining experiences you will find in Charleston, South Carolina

May 21, 2024

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

By Mark A Leon

Dining at Herd Provisions is a transcendent experience that awakens the senses and leaves you craving more. This Charleston gem offers a masterfully woven tapestry of ambiance, impeccable service, warm hospitality, and exquisite cuisine that elevates it to the upper echelons of the city’s renowned culinary scene.

An Inviting Atmosphere

As you step through the doors, you’re immediately transported by Herd Provisions‘ modern, open design. The deep, rich wood tones, open kitchen and bar, airy two-story space, and elegant outdoor dining area adorned with twinkling lights and lush foliage create an inviting, yet sophisticated ambiance that puts you at ease.

Service That Shines

What sets Herd Provisions apart is its ability to deliver a fine dining experience with a casual, comforting touch. Our server, Clara, exemplified this balance with her charming demeanor, extensive knowledge, and impeccable timing, allowing us to savor each moment without feeling rushed.

A Culinary Masterpiece

The true stars of the show, however, are the meticulously crafted dishes and libations. We began our journey with perfectly crafted cocktails – a bold South African Cabernet for me and a delightfully tart Anansi rum concoction for my companion. The hand-pulled burrata and crispy pork belly appetizers were so sublime that we could have stopped there, savoring each bite for hours.

For our entrées, the pesto radiatore with local shrimp and the wok-fried lentils with wreckfish were explosive stories on a plate, each bite more delectable than the last. Complemented by a French red with hints of Morello cherry and violets, these dishes were true works of art.

**Wok Fried Lentils with Wreckfish –** spring veg, pickled dukkah, puffed rice, spicy tamari

A Sweet Finale

No dining experience is complete without dessert, and Herd Provisions did not disappoint. We shared a decadent brownie with a boozy peanut butter whip and an espresso martini, providing the perfect sweet finale to our culinary journey.

Herd Provisions has crafted a dining experience that lingers long after you leave, a testament to their commitment to quality, service, and hospitality. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly remarkable culinary adventure in Charleston.

Banner image: Crispy Pork Belly (roasted peaches, grilled escarole, red pepper vin, pickled kumquat)