Lifestyle

By Mark A Leon

Nestled at 91 Church Street in the heart of historic Charleston, SC, Carolina Antique Maps & Prints is one of the city’s most beloved destinations for collectors and enthusiasts of rare antiquarian maps and prints. The shop features a rich trove of original works—each over a century old—spanning subjects from natural history (think Audubon and Catesby) to iconic maps charting Charleston’s coastline and the world beyond.

Ownership & Expertise

The gallery is owned and operated by Laura N. Vardell, Charleston’s premier authority on antique maps and prints. Laura has been intimately involved with Carolina Prints since 1985, fostering a passion for the art and science of cartography, as well as natural history illustration. Under Laura’s stewardship, the gallery is recognized as the oldest such business in Charleston specializing in genuine antiquarian prints and maps, with her expertise celebrated by both locals and international visitors.

History of the Shop

The shop traces its roots to the early 1960s, when it began dealing in antique paintings and prints. In 2001, Carolina Antique Maps & Prints, as it is known today, found its permanent home on historic Church Street, moving into the Catfish Row building (formerly Cabbage Row). This district is renowned for its cultural and artistic legacy, making it a fitting location for such a specialized gallery.

Laura’s tenure since the mid-1980s has made her a fixture in the city’s art and history scene, and she is known for her warm hospitality and willingness to share her encyclopedic knowledge. Visitors find not just rare items, but stories—about Charleston, about the artists, and about the evolution of printmaking and cartography through the centuries.

Offerings

• Antique maps from around the world, with a special emphasis on Charleston, the Carolinas, and the Southeast.

• Natural history prints, including birds, botanicals, marine life, and fauna.

• Original engravings by masters such as John James Audubon, Mark Catesby, and John Gould.

• Architectural and decorative prints.

Hours of Operation

• Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00AM – 4:00PM

• Sunday & Monday: Closed

Hours may occasionally vary, so it’s recommended to call ahead or check for the latest updates if planning a visit.

Carolina Antique Maps & Prints isn’t just a gallery—it’s a living chronicle of Charleston’s ties to art and discovery, and a testament to the enduring allure of vintage cartography and illustration. Whether you’re seeking a rare map, a beautifully preserved botanical, or simply a conversation with one of Charleston’s most knowledgeable art historians, this unique shop on Church Street awaits.

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By Mark A Leon

When Charleston’s thermometer spikes, staying cool indoors is the best way to enjoy the city. Here’s a roundup of top indoor destinations—covering ice skating, trampoline parks, arcades, museums, and the acclaimed South Carolina Aquarium—to keep the whole family entertained and chilled out.

1. Glide Across the Carolina Ice Palace

Home to two full-size NHL ice rinks, the Carolina Ice Palace is Charleston’s premier venue for public ice skating year-round. All ages and abilities are welcome, with skate rentals and “skate assist” gear available for beginners. The venue also features a pro shop and snack concessions. Skating sessions offer a refreshing escape from the muggy Lowcountry air—no prior experience needed.

2. Bounce at Trampoline Adventure Parks

Charleston boasts multiple indoor trampoline arenas where you can jump, flip, and soar:

• Flight Adventure Park offers 40,000sqft with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, and special “kids flight” hours. It’s a lively option for families and thrill-seekers.

• Sky Zone and Summit Adventure Park also provide large jump zones and obstacle courses, ideal for everything from playdates to parties and rainy day fun.

3. Play Big at Local Arcades

Arcade lovers can flock to Charleston Fun Park, where there’s a huge indoor selection of more than 50 games—all ticketless for convenience. Try your luck on everything from Connect 4 Hoops to retro classics, plus there’s often a prize redemption counter for big winners.

Other arcades—like MIX and Garage 75—add variety with pinball, duckpin bowling, and classic amusements, catering to both kids and adults.

4. Explore Charleston’s Museums

Charleston’s cultural scene shines indoors, with several air-conditioned museums appealing to a variety of interests:

• The Charleston Museum (America’s oldest – Founded in 1773) dives deep into Lowcountry history, natural science, and hands-on exhibits.

• Gibbes Museum of Art captivates with rotating and permanent collections of Southern art, photography, and sculpture.

• Families will enjoy the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, filled with interactive, educational fun for little ones.

• International African American Museum offers immersive exhibits tracing historic and cultural journeys that shaped the region.

Bonus: Mace Brown Museum of National History, located at 202 Calhoun Street is a free experience provided by the College of Charleston that lets you travel back billions of years to explore our planets origins.

5. Immerse Yourself at the South Carolina Aquarium

Set on Charleston’s waterfront, the South Carolina Aquarium is a must for animal lovers and marine explorers. Nearly all of its exhibits are climate-controlled indoors, featuring:

• A two-level Great Ocean Tank with sharks, rays, and hundreds of fish.

• The hands-on Boneyard Beach Touch Tank, where guests of all abilities can pet sea stars, sea urchins, hermit crabs, and even sharks.

• The Sea Turtle Care Center, where you can observe real-time rehabilitation of rescued turtles—a unique highlight that inspires conservation.

With daily animal encounters, virtual reality experiences, and new interactive displays, the aquarium keeps visitors of all ages engaged and cool.

Pro Tips

• Book ahead or check online hours during summer—these spots are popular for locals and tourists seeking a respite from the heat.

• Many venues offer group discounts or birthday packages, making them great for celebrations.

• Don’t forget museum memberships for regular local families—it’s a cost-effective way to explore again and again!

Whether you’re a local or visiting Charleston during peak summer, these indoor experiences offer the perfect way to stay comfortable, learn something new, and have a blast while the temperature soars outside.

USAA plans to add 300 workers at its Charlotte site to boost support for military families across the Carolinas. Their West Boulevard building, spanning 153,000 square feet, currently houses 700

USAA plans to add 300 workers at its Charlotte site to boost support for military families across the Carolinas. Their West Boulevard building, spanning 153,000 square feet, currently houses 700 staff members.

“We’re by no means as big as the banks up the road, but we’re pretty different, and that’s something we pride ourselves on,” said Ameesh Vakharia, chief strategy officer, according to The Charlotte Observer.

The firm picked Charlotte in 2022, drawn by the strong military presence in the Carolinas: a top-10 region for both active service members and veterans. They now serve over a million clients in these states.

Starting small in 2022 with just 100 staff on six floors, operations now fill the entire 10-story building. The start date for the next round of hiring remains unannounced.

The company’s financial health shows strength. Net income jumped to $3.9 billion last year from $1.2 billion in 2023, while assets grew 4% to $221 billion.

Staff at the Charlotte site enjoy perks like an on-site coffee shop, round-the-clock market, dining hall, gym, and outdoor areas. “If you take care of the employee, the employee will take care of the member,” Vakharia said.

What started as 25 Army officers banding together to insure their vehicles in 1922 has grown into a major financial institution. Now serving 14 million customers with banking, insurance, and retirement services, USAA maintains strong military ties: one-quarter of its 38,000 workforce consists of veterans or military spouses.

Since opening in Charlotte, USAA has put $1.6 million into local causes. This includes support for Veterans Bridge Home’s civilian transition programs and partnering with the Carolina Panthers for NFL Salute to Service.

The Charlotte branch stands out for community involvement. “Our teammates aren’t just excited about coming to work here. They’re excited about opportunities to get involved in the community,” Vakharia said.

In a recent initiative, the company gathered 20 officers from nearby bases for its “Reverse Military Acumen” discussions on leadership skills and civilian career paths.

Source link: V101.9

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The City of Charleston is proud to announce that its Forest Acres Phase 2 Drainage Improvement Project has been named South Carolina Project of the Year in the Environment category by the American Public Works Association (APWA).

This prestigious recognition highlights the city’s continued commitment to sustainable infrastructure, neighborhood resilience, and environmental stewardship—especially in the flood-prone communities of West Ashley.

Completed earlier this year, Phase 2 of the Forest Acres project has already begun to significantly reduce flooding and protect homes in the St. Andrews Garden Apartments, West Oak Forest, Washington Park, and North Forest Acres neighborhoods. The improvements were carefully designed to operate without pumps, relying instead on a smart, sustainable gravity-based system.

Project Highlights:

• Reconstructed and upgraded open drainage channels.
• Installation of large box culverts (rectangular pipes).
• New piped drainage systems along Playground Road and Brookwood Circle.
• Improved stormwater conveyance from the Palmilla Apartments and Highway 61 down to the West Ashley Bikeway Improvements from Phase 1 of the Forest Acres Project.
• Flood mitigation for both Forest Acres and the adjacent 5th Avenue drainage basins.

The area had long been impacted by recurring flooding, particularly during heavy or repeated moderate rain events. Prior to the upgrade, the basin was served by an outdated and undersized pump station. Today, with these critical improvements, the system offers greater reliability, reduced risk to property and safety, and long-term environmental resilience.

“This project is a great example of what happens when smart design, strong partnerships, and community support come together,” said Mayor William Cogswell, “We’re proud of the work done in West Ashley—and even more proud that it’s already making a real difference for our residents.”

The City of Charleston extends thanks to its Stormwater Management Department, Thomas & Hutton, Gulf Stream Construction, and the Forest Acres community for their dedication and partnership on this award-winning effort.

Source: City of Charleston, South Carolina

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ATLANTA, Ga. – College of Charleston pitcher Daniel Brooks has signed as an undrafted free agent with the Atlanta Braves.
 
Brooks had a career season at The College, posting a 6-4 record with a 4.44 ERA across 17 appearances and 14 starts. The righty fanned 74 batters in 75.0 frames, holding opponents to a .235 batting average. 
 
The Mt Pleasant, S.C., native struck out five-plus batters in nine outings in 2025, including nine May 10 at North Carolina A&T.
 
In three seasons with the Cougars, Brooks made 39 appearances, going 10-6 with a 4.84 ERA and 149 punchouts in 139.1 innings.
 
For complete coverage of Charleston baseball, follow us on Facebook (/CollegeofCharlestonBaseball), X (@CofCBaseball) and Instagram (@CofC_Baseball).

Source link: College of Charleston

Photo credit: College of Charleston

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By Mark A Leon

Charlie’s Place, a legendary nightclub in Myrtle Beach, was more than a venue—it was a sanctuary where music broke boundaries and secrets flourished in the shadows of segregation. 

Owned by the mysterious and resourceful Charlie Fitzgerald and his wife, Sarah, the club’s true magic lay just beneath the surface, hidden from all but those who knew where to look.

On Carver Street, at the edge of the Booker T. Washington neighborhood known as “The Hill,” Charlie’s Place was alive every night with the sounds of jazz and rhythm & blues. Iconic performers like Ray Charles, Little Richard, Billie Holiday, and Otis Redding played to packed rooms, the air thick with anticipation and cigarette smoke. 

Amid the laughter and dancing, Black and white patrons mingled, an extraordinary act defying the era’s strict segregation laws.

But the real secret was behind a locked door camouflaged as part of a mahogany-paneled wall. Rumor had it, this was Charlie’s integrated bar—a place even more progressive and discreet than the main club. 

Only those trusted by Charlie or initiated by Sarah found their way in. Here, both Black and white city notables, musicians, and locals would sip whiskey, share stories, and plot the future of music far from prying eyes.

Charlie’s integrated bar remained an open secret, protected by the respect Charlie commanded in the community. He was known to lend money to white business owners and was rumored to dine in white-only establishments—his quiet power making him untouchable for a time. The joy and risk of this hidden alliance only added to the club’s mystique.

That delicate peace shattered one notorious night in 1950 when the Ku Klux Klan attacked Charlie’s Place, firing hundreds of rounds into the building. Despite the violence—and Charlie himself being beaten—he never revealed the true nature of the secret bar or those who crossed its threshold.

Even after Charlie’s tragic passing and the decline of the original club, whispers of the hidden bar lingered, its legend growing as a symbol of unity and quiet resistance. Today, Charlie’s Place is honored as a monument to courage, music, and the secret ways people defied hate to build something beautiful together.

The story of Charlie’s Place and its secret integrated bar stands as a reminder: sometimes, the most profound revolutions happen behind closed doors, under the cover of music and friendship.

Related: Remembering Charlie’s Place – South Carolina Living

Related: Charlie’s Place – PBS (Video)

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By Mark A Leon

The 843 Run Club is a thriving community hub for runners in Charleston, SC, offering an inclusive and social atmosphere for athletes of all backgrounds. 

Founded with the goal of connecting locals through fitness, the club meets every Saturday at 8 AM at The Battery, one of Charleston’s most iconic locations. Runners can choose between 3-mile or 5-mile group routes, accommodating everyone from casual joggers to seasoned distance enthusiasts.

What sets the 843 Run Club apart is its welcoming spirit. Each gathering is more than just a run; it’s an opportunity to forge friendships, enjoy post-run coffee, and experience Charleston’s historic scenery together. The club’s laid-back format encourages newcomers and experienced runners alike. 

Social events are often integrated into meetups, strengthening community ties beyond the pavement.

843 Run Club’s popularity has grown rapidly, attracting over a thousand followers on social media, reflecting Charleston’s wider running boom. The city hosts a variety of run clubs, yet 843 Run Club distinguishes itself with a focus on inclusivity, consistency, and a picturesque setting. There are no membership fees or requirements—just show up and join in.

Expansion has also occurred into the wider Lowcountry, with additional meetups in nearby areas like Summerville, making the club accessible to more Charleston residents. Its integration into local races and charity events, such as the Floppin’ Flounder 5K, further demonstrates its community impact.

For anyone seeking camaraderie, motivation, or a fun way to explore Charleston on foot, 843 Run Club offers an ideal entry point and a true sense of belonging within the city’s active culture.

Follow the 843 Run Club on Instagram.

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By Mark A Leon

Gustard’s Custard is a frozen custard shop located at 2200 Heriot Street in Charleston, SC. The shop was founded by Nelson Burch, a Citadel graduate, and it’s named after his dog, Gus. The business quickly became popular for its creamy and dense custard, which is richer than typical ice cream due to the addition of egg yolks.

Gustard’s serves classic vanilla, chocolate, and a rotating menu of seasonal soft serve flavors, with numerous toppings available. Embracing a dog-friendly philosophy, they also offer special “pooch scoops” made with Greek yogurt and blueberries for canine visitors.

Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM / Friday – Sunday – 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

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The shop features outdoor seating and shares a lot with Over The Horizon Brewery, encouraging customers to enjoy their custard with a drink next door. Since opening, Gustard’s has gained attention as one of Charleston’s top new sweets spots, celebrated for both its high-quality frozen custard and welcoming neighborhood vibe.

Gustard’s Custard reflects local flavor, pet-friendly charm, and a growing place in Charleston’s dessert scene.

The City of Charleston has opened the application period for its 2026 State Accommodations Tax (SAT) and Community Assistance Funding grant programs. Non-profit organizations and public agencies are invited to apply for funding to support eligible programs that serve the citizens of Charleston.

Applications are due no later than Friday, August 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered.

The State Accommodations Tax grants are funded through revenues collected from a statewide tax on accommodations, and must, by law, be used for specific tourism-related purposes. These include:

• Promotion of arts and cultural events
• Tourism marketing and promotion
• Operation of facilities for cultural and civic activities

Each year, these grants are awarded by City Council based on recommendations from the Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee, in accordance with state statute.

The Community Assistance Funding program supports nonprofit organizations providing direct community services in areas such as:

• Arts and culture
• Youth and community development
• Education
• Health and human services
• Environmental programming
• Public safety initiatives

To qualify, applicants must either be located within the City of Charleston or demonstrate that their programs directly serve City residents.

Applications and program guides are available online at: www.charleston-sc.gov/123/Community-Assistance-Accommodations-Tax-

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The City of Charleston is excited to announce two major recreation projects launching as part of the city’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan, funded by the $70 million Parks Bond Referendum overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2023. Last week, Charleston City Council approved $3.3 million to begin the design phase for both projects.

These two projects—one in West Ashley and one on Johns Island—represent the first major investments from the bond and signal a significant step forward in expanding access to high-quality recreational amenities across Charleston.

West Ashley: Rebuilding the WL Stephens Recreation Center

The existing WL Stephens Recreation Center in West Ashley will be demolished and replaced with a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility. The new main building will span between 24,000 and 28,000 square feet and include:

• A 25-meter by 25-yard indoor pool
• An adjacent therapy pool for swim lessons, water aerobics, and rehabilitation
• A multi-purpose community room
• Office and support space for staff
• A new, modern playground for families
• New tennis and basketball courts

The existing Miracle League Baseball Field—providing inclusive access to children and adults with disabilities—will remain and continue to serve the community.

“This facility was originally built in the 1970’s so this upgrade will be a game-changer for West Ashley,” said Mayor William Cogswell. “We’re building a modern facility that reflects our commitment to high-quality design and long-term investment in the neighborhoods that make Charleston great.”

Johns Island: First-Ever City Recreation Facility

For the first time, Johns Island residents will have a city-operated recreation facility of their own. Located just off Maybank Highway near the Hayes Park development, the new complex will be approximately 50,000 square feet and include:

• A 25-meter by 25-yard indoor pool and adjacent therapy pool
• An indoor gymnasium with two full basketball courts
• Cardio and group fitness rooms
• A multi-purpose room
• Two classroom spaces
• A catering kitchen
• Outdoor pickleball courts
• Outdoor basketball courts
• An inclusive playground and splash pad

“Johns Island has waited a long time for this kind of investment,” said District 3 Councilmember Jim McBride. “This project will create an anchor for community life, health, and connection on the island.”

Next Steps

Both facilities are being designed by Charleston-based architectural firm LS3P. Charleston City Council is expected to review construction contracts this August. Permitting will take approximately one year, with construction on both sites expected to begin next summer and take 18 months to complete. Community engagement will begin this fall, with the city and LS3P hosting concept presentations and public input sessions to gather feedback and incorporate resident priorities into the final designs.

Source link: City of Charleston, SC