Charleston Daily Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

By Mark A. Leon

There are many things and places to find joy in Charleston, but maybe none more visible than the visionary signs created by the wife and husband team of Kelsy and Jason behind K&J Lit Rentals. Known for their glowing marquee letters and statement-making event accents, K&J Lit Rentals has quickly become a go-to name for transforming gatherings into unforgettable experiences throughout the Lowcountry.

What sets K&J Lit Rentals apart is their commitment to bringing creativity, personality, and flair to any occasion. From weddings and milestone birthdays to corporate events and community celebrations, their large-scale illuminated letters and numbers create more than just a photo-worthy backdrop—they build a sense of excitement and elevate the entire atmosphere. Whether it’s a romantic “LOVE” glowing warmly at a waterfront wedding or a bold company name shining at a product launch, each installation reflects both meticulous craftsmanship and a keen understanding of how lighting can shape emotion.

Charleston, a city already brimming with charm, has found in K&J Lit Rentals an added spark that blends seamlessly with its tradition of hospitality. Kelsy, the hands-on operator and creative lead, ensures that every detail aligns with a client’s vision, while Jason brings the technical expertise and logistical muscle that makes each installation look effortless. Together, they strike a balance of artistry and precision, which clients have come to deeply value.

But K&J Lit Rentals isn’t only about marquee letters. Their offerings include custom signage, themed accents, and creative décor options designed to complement any type of event. Each piece is carefully maintained and styled, ensuring that no two celebrations feel the same. This ability to personalize and adapt has fueled their growth and made them a trusted partner for event planners and venues across the Charleston area.

Beyond the glow of the lights, K&J Lit Rentals is about people. Kelsy and Jason’s story is one of entrepreneurship rooted in community—they are a family business that thrives on relationships, not just rentals. Their clients often remark on the team’s warmth and dedication, praising them for being more than just vendors. For many, working with K&J Lit Rentals feels like inviting friends to help craft a memory, and that human touch is what truly sets them apart.

In a city where every detail counts and celebrations carry deep meaning, K&J Lit Rentals shines as a company that elevates joy, light, and connection. Whether it’s a grand wedding at one of Charleston’s historic venues or a backyard party made special with a glowing marquee, Kelsy and Jason’s vision ensures the celebration will be remembered long after the lights dim.

K&J Lit Rentals isn’t just lighting up Charleston’s events—they’re helping write stories in neon and glow, one celebration at a time.

Follow the illumination on Instagram.

Photo Credit: K&J Lit Rentals

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Mount Pleasant, SC — September 4, 2025 – Construction Resources (CR), the Southeast’s leading multi-category design destination, is proud to announce its newest CR Design Center in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, slated to open Spring 2026. Partnering with local Charleston developer The Beach Company, Atlanta-based design firms ASD | SKY and The Collab, as well as Winter Construction, Construction Resources’ new outpost marks continued expansion of the CR multi-product model in the Southeast.

At more than 45,000 square feet, the Charleston CR Design Center will bring together ten product categories under one roof—from appliances, cabinets, countertops, and decorative plumbing, to fireplaces, lighting, garage doors, outdoor living, shower doors & mirrors, and tile & flooring. In addition, the CR Design Center will launch a store-in-store concept integrating the Opustone Stone & Tile Concepts brand across 12,000 square feet of the 45,000–square–foot space. CR acquired Opustone, a leading distributor of luxury natural stone and tile with locations across South Florida, in April of 2025. This multi-product approach provides designers, builders, remodelers, and homeowners with a seamless one-stop destination for every stage of their project and an unparalleled selection of premium brands.

Located in The Shoppes Seaside Farms, a vibrant mixed-use community home to more than 40 boutique retailers, restaurants, multi-family residences, the Charleston CR Design Center will serve as both a shopping destination and an inspiration hub for Charleston’s growing design and custom builder community. Positioned between Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, the new location is ideally located to serve the booming residential real estate market in the Charleston area.

“Charleston is a natural choice for our next CR Design Center. The region’s design influence is nationally recognized, and Seaside Farms offers an ideal setting to become part of a vibrant community where people live, shop, and create,” said Mitch Hires, CEO of Construction Resources. “Our mission has always been to simplify the design and building process while elevating the customer experience. We are excited to support Charleston’s designers, builders, remodelers, and homeowners as a trusted partner in bringing their creative concepts to life.”

“We are delighted to welcome Construction Resources to The Shoppes at Seaside Farms,” says Dan Doyle, President and COO of The Beach Company. “This addition will enhance the offerings of our retail collection and provide an exciting home design hub for area residents and businesses.”

Earlier this summer, Construction Resources invited seven leading Charleston-based designers to join a special roundtable event in Atlanta, giving them the opportunity to help shape the new CR Design Center and ensure it will reflect the unique needs, style, and spirit of the Charleston market.

The Charleston CR Design Center is part of Construction Resources’ ongoing growth across the Southeast and beyond. With the recent debut of its Atlanta Flagship, the expansive 50,000-square-foot CR Design Center at Westside Paper, and CR Buckhead Design Studio for a boutique, luxury design experience, Construction Resources is continuing to redefine the standard for multi-product design destinations.
About Construction Resources
Construction Resources is a leading distributor of design-oriented surfaces, appliances, and specialty products for professional contractors & designers focused on renovation, remodeling, and residential home building.

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Oh my, September is in full gear in Charleston, South Carolina.

This week marks three significant events here in the Lowcountry:

• Fleet Landing celebrates its 20th anniversary with the release of their inaugural cookbook, ‘The Fleet Landing Cookbook: Recipes for Fresh Seafood and Lowcountry Fare from Charleston’s Iconic Restaurant‘
• The premier holiday event ‘Aquarium Aglow’ tickets are now on sale
• The second annual Indigo Road Charleston Restaurant Week has launched – September 4 – 14, 2025

Event Details

Fleet Landing 20th Anniversary Cookbook ‘The Fleet Landing Cookbook: Recipes for Fresh Seafood and Lowcountry Fare from Charleston’s Iconic Restaurant‘ is now available!

Take the flavors of Charleston’s waterfront home with the brand-new Fleet Landing Cookbook. Featuring 68 carefully-crafted recipes, this collection showcases the Lowcountry cuisine that has made Fleet Landing a Charleston favorite for two decades. With 48 stunning full-color photographs from Charlestonian Peter Frank Edwards, along with stories about our historic building and the journey of our restaurant, this cookbook is more than just recipes – it’s a slice of Charleston history. Perfect for seasoned home chefs, seafood lovers, and fans of Fleet Landing alike.

Click HERE to purchase.

Aquarium Aglow at The South Carolina Aquarium

Enjoy the South Carolina Aquarium after dark, transformed by dazzling displays of light and color! Explore our galleries filled with festive fun, including immersive photo stations set to capture the perfect holiday card, delicious refreshments available for purchase and — of course — Scuba Claus!

Enter an enchanting world of holiday lights at Aquarium Aglow, opening November 21!
15% off early bird pricing is available through October 31. Click HERE for tickets.

Indigo Road Charleston Restaurant Week – September 4 – 14, 2025

The Indigo Road Hospitality Group is thrilled to host its second annual Indigo Road Restaurant Week, a culinary celebration marking the end of summer in Charleston. From September 4 to 14, 2025, join us at some of Charleston’s most beloved dining destinations for a special three-course menu crafted to delight both new and returning guests.

• Brasserie la Banque (1 Broad St.) – $55 per person menu, linked here
• Edmund’s Original Formerly Edmund’s Oast (1081 Morrison Dr.) – $55 per person menu, linked here
• Indaco (526 King St.) – $55 per person menu, linked here
• Oak Steakhouse (17 Broad St.) – $60 per person menu, linked here
• O-Ku (463 King St.) – $55 per person menu, linked here
• Post House (101 Pitt St. Mt. Pleasant) – $35 per person menu (lunch only), linked here
• The Kingstide (32 River Landing Dr., Daniel Island) – $55 per person menu, linked here
• Two Bit Club (93 Society St) – $50 per person 4-course menu, linked here

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By Mark A. Leon

Charleston’s art scene is entering a transformative new chapter with the opening of Drummond Studio Gallery on the Eastside on the historically rich area of Charleston, a space rooted in passion, purpose, and cultural preservation. More than just an art venue, the gallery represents a pivotal moment in Drummond’s journey as both an artist and storyteller—one that seeks to amplify voices, foster dialogue, and redefine what a gallery can be.

Unlike traditional galleries open daily with static exhibitions, Drummond’s space is modeled after the event-based style of contemporary venues like Hed Hi Studio. It will host curated shows, pop-ups, and community gatherings designed to create meaningful connections rather than transactional encounters. For Drummond, this approach is essential: the gallery is not simply about selling art but about cultivating community, sharing narratives, and ensuring cultural continuity.

A Mission Rooted in Storytelling

Drummond has always seen art as a vessel for storytelling, and his new gallery takes that even further. “If I didn’t use this platform for storytelling—to educate, uplift, and make sure our story is told fully and in the right way—then what am I really doing?” he said.

This sense of responsibility is not abstract—it’s deeply personal. Drummond’s evolution as an artist has been guided by a desire to preserve memory and heritage. His shift from purely abstract paintings to representational work was sparked by stories his father shared, inspiring him to use his art as a way of capturing cultural experiences before they are lost. That same ethos carries into the gallery, where storytelling will remain at the heart of its mission.

The Right Moment to Expand

After five years of self-employment, steady recognition, and the inclusion of his work in two major Charleston museums (Gibbes Museum and International African American Museum), Drummond felt the timing was right to open this space. His established art practice provides financial stability, allowing him to pursue this venture without the pressure of daily foot traffic or sales quotas.

That freedom makes the gallery rare: it isn’t driven by commercial urgency but shaped by cultural necessity. “I wanted to find studio space for myself, and also space to exhibit the work of other artists and creatives,” Drummond said.

In practice, that means the gallery will serve as his own working studio, a platform for rotating exhibitions, and a collaborative hub where other artists can access space and visibility.

Creating a Seat at the Table

Drummond sees his gallery as part of a larger movement to challenge exclusionary models in the art world. By giving underrepresented voices a platform, he hopes to ensure that Charleston’s cultural history is told with integrity and depth.

In a world where artistic voices are often marginalized, Arun Drummond’s gallery represents a powerful commitment to amplifying emerging artists and their stories.  By creating a space that prioritizes community over commerce, Drummond understands that giving artists a seat at the table isn’t just about displaying artwork—it’s about providing a platform for authentic expression, cultural preservation, and meaningful dialogue.

That vision is already visible in his programming. Alongside his own ongoing projects, such as the “Erasure Series”—a body of abstract work that wrestles with themes of cultural disappearance—Drummond plans to collaborate with artists like Demetrius Bing and Corey Alston. By weaving multiple narratives together, the gallery aims to become not just a showcase of art, but a living archive of stories and voices.

Full-Circle Journey

The gallery also marks a return to Drummond’s roots. Before establishing his independent career, he worked at the Chuma Gallery, where his role was to support other artists and help them tell their stories. Now, years later, he sees this new space as an opportunity to carry that mission forward on his own terms. “Now it’s time for me to shift and go back to my roots, of what I did at the Chuma Gallery, which was help others tell their stories… through my own gallery.”

That return is both personal and symbolic: Drummond’s gallery is a continuation of Charleston’s long tradition of cultural spaces serving as protectors of heritage, even as gentrification and development threaten their survival. His work ensures that art is not separated from the community but deeply embedded within it.

A Gallery as Movement

At its core, the gallery is about more than exhibitions or events—it is about creating an ecosystem of belonging. For Charleston’s art community, the space promises to be dynamic, challenging, and deeply intentional.

By combining his own evolving practice with a commitment to collaboration, Drummond is carving out a new model of cultural stewardship. It is one that prioritizes storytelling over sales, representation over recognition, and community over commerce.

For Drummond, the opening is both a culmination and a beginning—a full-circle moment in a career defined by resilience, vision, and passion. But it is also an invitation. This is not just his gallery; it is a space for artists, audiences, and communities to gather, share, and write the next chapter of Charleston’s cultural story together.

In a city known for its layered history and vibrant creativity, Arun Drummond’s gallery is a new canvas—one that reflects not only his journey but the collective spirit of the community it serves.

Follow the journey on Instagram.

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Photo Credit: Drummond Studio Gallery and Charleston Daily

Here are all the details:

• Location: 289 Huger Street, Charleston, SC
• Square Footage: 13,342 SF of Flex Space Available
• Cost: $40.00 Square Foot / Year – $533,680 Annually / $44,473 Month
• Official Listing
• Listing PDF (Full Details)

Unique opportunity to lease one-of-a-kind building in a one-of-a-kind location on Huger Street. This building has it all: high bay, loading dock, outdoor courtyard, onsite and adjacent parking and located in an emerging area of town adjacent to the forthcoming Lowcountry Lowline.

• Lease rate does not include utilities, property expenses or building services
• Adjacent to Lowcountry Lowline
• Truck High Loading Dock
• On-site parking
• In SC Opportunity Zone

Click HERE for floor plan.

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In the perfect stylistic tone consistent with their vibe, the owners of Cleats Charleston announced on social media the closing of Cleats.

The statement on Instagram read:

“✨ That’s a wrap ✨

After two incredible years, we’ve closed the doors at Cleats! 🍔🌭🍻🍹🍾What began as an exciting opportunity grew into a space full of great food, memories, and community. Over time, our direction has shifted, and it’s time to focus our energy on where the momentum is taking us next. 💛

A heartfelt thank you to our opening team and all the amazing people who worked tirelessly to build this business. Your hard work, passion, and dedication made everything possible. 🙌

Thank you for every visit, every plate shared, and every ounce of support. Cheers to new chapters and future adventures.”

We commend your passion, dedication and commitment to the Lowcountry. We wish y’all all the success in your futures.

Photo Credit: Cleats Charleston

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CHARLESTON, S.C. — Two strong, mission-driven organizations—East Cooper Habitat for Humanity and Charleston Habitat for Humanity—are joining forces to better serve families across the Lowcountry. Effective September 1, 2025, the organizations will merge to become Charleston Habitat for Humanity, creating a unified, strengthened nonprofit with increased capacity, broader geographic reach, and new opportunities for innovation and impact.

“This merger is more than a change in name—it’s a bold step forward,” said Lynn Bowley, incoming CEO of Charleston Habitat for Humanity. “By working together, we will build more homes, complete more critical repairs, and expand our programs to reach more families in need.”

The merger will not disrupt day-to-day operations for families, volunteers, donors, or partners. Instead, it will enable Charleston Habitat for Humanity to:

• Serve more families across Charleston County and beyond
• Increase the number of new home builds and critical repairs throughout the combined service area
• Access new funding opportunities through unified grant applications, partnerships, and donor networks
• Optimize resources by combining administrative, fundraising, family services, and construction teams

The organization’s new headquarters will be located at 731 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC 29403, effective September 1, 2025.

Leadership Announcement

The newly formed Charleston Habitat for Humanity will be led by a team that combines decades of affordable housing expertise:

• CEO: Lynn Bowley, former Executive Director, Charleston Habitat for Humanity
• COO: Kevin Brokes, former Executive Director, East Cooper Habitat for Humanity
• CFO: Christine Pinson, former Assistant Executive Director, East Cooper Habitat for Humanity “Our leadership team shares a united vision and a deep commitment to breaking down barriers to

homeownership,” said Kevin Brokes, COO. “This collaboration is about creating a stronger future for the families we serve.”

Retail Operations to Continue

Both retail stores will remain open and continue to support affordable housing initiatives:

• Charleston Habitat ReStore – 731 Meeting Street, Charleston
• East Cooper Home Store – 469 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant

Charleston Habitat for Humanity extends its deepest gratitude to all donors, volunteers, and partners whose generosity has fueled this mission—and will now help make an even greater impact.

For more information about the merger or to learn how to get involved, contact: Lynn Bowley, ChiefExecutive Officer at Lynn@charlestonhabitat.org or 843-203-4021.

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Following a comprehensive market analysis that found Charleston County’s monthly and transient parking rates to be below prevailing market values, the County will implement rate adjustments at the Cumberland (90 Cumberland Street) and King and Queen (85 Queen Street) garages to bring them more in line with comparable facilities, effective October 1, 2025.

This adjustment will create a consistent pricing structure for transient rates across all downtown garages. Funds will be utilized to perform critical facility maintenance and repairs, as well as to offset costs like credit card fees.

New transient rates for all county garages:

• $1 per 20 minutes
• $24 daily max
• $50 lost ticket fee

New monthly rates (24/7 access):

• King and Queen Garage: $215 per month
• Cumberland Garage: $175 per month

Please note that Charleston County no longer offers a Daytime Parking Access rate. Contracts and billing for those

currently receiving Daytime Access will automatically default to the new 24/7 rate.

For cardholders with an automatic credit or debit card on file, payments will be processed on November 1, 2025 (for the month of October) at the new rate amount.

Those who would like to cancel existing parking contracts prior to the new rate implementation should contact the Main Parking Office by September 30th, 2025, via email at parking@charlestoncounty.org. Please note that refunds will not be issued to cardholders who do not cancel prior to the October 1 rate adjustment.

Those currently parking at the King and Queen Garage who would like to move to the Cumberland Garage should contact the Main Parking Office by September 30th, 2025, via email at parking@charlestoncounty.org.

For additional information, patrons should contact the Parking Office at 843-724-6786.

———–

In keeping with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), those needing assistance should contact Charleston County at (843) 746-4086 during regular business hours.

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster was joined today by Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) officials, members of the General Assembly, and other state and local leaders to announce that final funding has been secured for an armed, certified, full-time school resource officer (SRO) in every South Carolina public school. 

“For years, we have made it our mission to ensure that every student, teacher, and staff member is protected by an armed, certified, full-time school resource officer in every school, in every county, all day, every day – and now we have finished the job,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “This achievement makes South Carolina a national leader in school safety and provides us all peace of mind knowing our schools are protected.” 

In 2018, Governor McMaster made placing a full-time SRO in each of our state’s 1,283 public schools a top priority. At that time, South Carolina had just 406 full-time SROs statewide. Since then, the General Assembly has steadily increased funding and, at the governor’s request, transferred the management of the program from the Department of Education to SCDPS to ensure greater coordination and efficiency. 

At the start of the 2024-2025 school year, 1,106 schools had a full-time SRO, leaving 177 schools without coverage. This year, at the governor’s request, the General Assembly appropriated $29.4 million to fund a full-time SRO in every remaining school. 

Since receiving funding in July, SCDPS immediately awarded funding for 58 new SRO positions. On August 5, SCDPS released an Open Solicitation for the remaining 119 positions, which will be filled as school districts are able to staff them throughout the year. 

“I am proud to help ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to succeed, because in South Carolina, supporting our schools and law enforcement has always been a top priority,” said S.C. Senator Shane Martin. “That’s why, when we saw the need to place a resource officer in every school, every senator supported it unanimously, and the House passed it as well. Now, the funding is there, we just need the right officers to fill the roles.”

“The funding is now in place to put an SRO in every remaining school across the state, and that is exactly what we are going to do,” said DPS Deputy Director Mike Oliver. “Our priority is keeping kids safe, and we are fortunate to have an administration that looks out for our teachers and law enforcement.”

ADDITIONAL SCHOOL SAFETY INITIATIVES SECURED BY GOV. MCMASTER: 

Center for School Safety and Targeted Violence: 

• In 2023, Governor McMaster signed into law H. 3360, which established the Center for School Safety and Targeted Violence within SLED. Located at the old Gilbert Elementary School, the center trains law enforcement, teachers, school personnel, and the public in active shooter response, targeted violence prevention, and other safety measures. 

School Safety Upgrades: 

• For the past three years, the General Assembly has funded $20 million annually for school safety improvements. Distributed as grants through the Department of Education, eligible upgrades for school facilities include enhancing classroom and internal door locks, securing school entry points, window covers, bulletproof glass, and more. 

School Mapping: 

• In FY 2024-2025, the legislature appropriated $5 million to the Department of Education for a statewide school safety mapping program. The system equips 911 operators with real-time digital maps pinpointing exactly where an emergency or incident is happening on a school campus, allowing first responders to get to a threat faster.  

School Officer Resource Program Overview

Source: Office of the Governor of South Carolina

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