Future USS Ralph Johnson to be Commissioned in Charleston, S.C.

January 11, 2017 by 0 Comments

From Secretary of Navy Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus today announced that the city of Charleston, South Carolina, will serve as the commissioning site for the future USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114).

The ship is named for Marine Pfc. Ralph Henry Johnson, a native of Charleston, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. Johnson used his body to shield two fellow Marines from a grenade, absorbing the blast and dying instantly in March 1968.

No date has been set for the commissioning ceremony, but the ship was launched at the Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Dec. 12, 2015.

Ralph Johnson is the 64th Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, and the 30th DDG 51 class destroyer built by the Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) shipyard.

DDG 51 class ships are integral players in global maritime security, engaging in air, undersea, surface, strike and ballistic missile defense. Ralph Johnson, a Flight IIA destroyer, will be equipped with Aegis Baseline 9 which incorporates Integrated Air and Missile Defense and enhanced Ballistic Missile Defense capabilities.

For more information on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, visit:

Full Press Release

Fostering Mental Health and Well-Being: Healthy Habits for Older Adults

January 11, 2017 by 0 Comments

By Jason Lewis

Older adults are increasingly aware of the importance of staying physically healthy as they age, but too many neglect their mental well-being. Seniors are at an increased risk of social isolation, which can lead to depression and other mental health consequences. Here are a few healthy habits for older adults that will help you maintain sound mental health throughout your golden years.

Stay Physically Active

Most often, we think of exercise as a way to maintain physical health, but fitness is an important aspect of emotional well-being, too. Exercise can be a coping strategy for managing stress, and it can also improve your mood. Staying physically active helps you maintain balance and strength, which can reduce the odds of developing mobility issues, making it easier for you to remain socially active as you grow older.

Adopt a Furry Friend

Caring for a pet provides a sense of purpose, giving seniors someone to take care of who, in return, provides companionship, a reason to get out of bed in the morning, motivation to take walks and stay active, and much more. Dogs have even been shown to help alleviate the symptoms of depression. When you’re feeling lonely or down, a dog or cat will always be willing to snuggle up beside you and comfort you.

Stay Connected to Friends and Family

Socialization is crucial for the well-being of older adults, yet far too many seniors end up spending most of their time alone, isolated from the outside world. Technology makes it easy to stay in touch with friends and family near and far, but it’s not a substitute for face-to-face interaction with others. Visit a local senior center to learn about the activities offered and find something that interests you, or join a senior fitness group or walking club to meet new people and develop friendships with like-minded older adults.

Say No to Activities That Don’t Bring You Joy

As an older adult, you may be increasingly aware that there’s only so much time in each day. Learn to say no to activities that don’t bring you joy, and find ways to offload mundane tasks that cause stress or frustration. You can hire a housekeeper to clean your home, for instance, if it takes too much of your valuable time to keep up with it or it’s becoming too difficult for you to do physically. If the thought of mowing the lawn makes you cringe, hire a local lawn maintenance company or an independent contractor to do it for you.

Find a Hobby

After carving out time by eliminating the tasks that you don’t enjoy, you’ll have more time to pursue things you’re passionate about. It’s never too late to take up a new hobby or pursue an interest, whether that means going back to school, starting a business, or maintaining a robust garden in your backyard. The sky’s the limit, and there’s no reason to hold yourself back from learning new things or finally using your time to do the things that fuel your soul.

Staying mentally healthy as you age is all about prioritizing your life, making time for the things that matter, and learning to let go of the things that take up your valuable time but offer little reward in return. It’s your life, and you should never feel guilty about prioritizing your mental health and building a life that you enjoy.

Image via Pixabay by emailme3

Asheville Based Indie/Folk-Rock Artist Matt Townsend Coming to Charleston this Week

January 10, 2017 by 0 Comments

January 11, 2017 (Wednesday) – Awendaw Green Barn Jam (6:00 PM)

January 12, 2017 (Thursday) –  Cory’s Grilled Cheese (James Island) (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Matt Townsend is touring the southeast in support of his newly released EP, The Drifter and the Dream (part 1). Part one of a two part series, the EP is both a politically charged and introspective affair, showcasing a “breadth of creative impulses…[with lyrics] in line with the pointed fury of Bob Dylan” says the Huffington Post. He will be performing and leading a workshop at the South Florida Folk Festival (Jan 28/29) along with a dozen other tour stops. On The Drifter and the Dream, which was recorded at the world class Echo Mountain Recording Studios in Asheville, NC, “Townsend explores the modern world and all of its rough edges with this exceptional collection of songs….Like Bruce Springsteen and Woody Guthrie before him, Townsend channels in elements of folk, rock, and roots to create a great sound that doubles as a magnifying glass on his country’s pulse.” The album feature’s a host of Asheville’s surplus of musical talent (including Bill Berg, the drummer on Bob Dylan’s Blood on the Tracks). Townsend is also a featured artist on The Asheville Symphony Sessions, an album consisting of a collaboration between the Asheville Symphony Orchestra and Asheville-based recording artists. His Song “For Now We Are” was arranged by Michael Bearden (Neil Young, Michael Jackson) and is featured alongside fellow regional artists, Rising Appalachia, Steep Canyon Rangers and more. Tour dates and more information at www.matttownsendmusic.com.

Want to do something special: Volunteer with Ronald McDonald House of Charleston

January 9, 2017 by 0 Comments

VOLUNTEER

Use your time, talents, and heart to make our House A Home Away From Home

Ronald McDonald House Charleston volunteers help provide comfort and care to our families, as well as maintain our House. We have several volunteer opportunities. Learn more about the different opportunities below.

Individual Volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House
Volunteers play an important role in the day-to-day operations of the Ronald McDonald House. They provide administrative support, help keep our House clean and tidy, offer family support, serve as a welcoming face, and provide information to our visitors.

Age: Must be 18 years or older
Location: The Ronald McDonald House –81 Gadsden Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Commitment: Weekly two hour shift for a minimum of 6 months
Shifts: Shifts are offered daily from 9 AM to 9 PM

Duties Include:

  • Receptionist
  • House Assistant
  • Family Room Assistant
  • Card Writers
  • Kitchen/Pantry Organizer
  • Salad Bar Helper
  • Dinner Helper
  • Maintenance
  • Puppy Sitter

Group Volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House

When a group of volunteers come together to help at RMHC Charleston, they make a big impact. Whether it’s deep cleaning our House or helping out with a specific task, their efforts, small and large, support every family that relies on our Home Away From Home. Here are a few ways you and your friends, coworkers, or family can help.

Deep Cleaning Volunteer Group
Deep Cleaning Volunteers help us keep the Ronald McDonald House tidy and healthy for our families. We provide all of the cleaning supplies. To become a deep cleaning volunteer group, volunteers must follow these guidelines:

  • All volunteer groups must be adults or heavily supervised children 15 and older
  • Cleaning must be done Monday – Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Groups should be no more than 15 people

 

Special Task Volunteer Group
RMHC Charleston has special tasks that require the support of group volunteers. This can include building shelves, organizing storage rooms and landscaping clean up. Task volunteers must follow these guidelines:

  • All volunteer groups must be adults
  • Tasks must be pre-approved by the House
  • Groups should be no more than 12 people

Event Volunteers for the Ronald McDonald House Part of the success of our fundraisers we host every year is the network of volunteers that work tirelessly to make them spectacular. Our volunteers take on varying tasks from securing auction items to greeting guests to stuffing envelopes. And, everything they do to help makes a big difference in making the event fantastic and, most importantly, supporting our families.

Event volunteers must follow these guidelines:

  • Age restrictions are event specific
  • All volunteers must sign up to participate through the Director of Volunteers
  • Event volunteers can be individual or groups

Click to Donate

Click to Volunteer

Ronald McDonald House Charleston Instagram

Television Rewind: Bill Murray Appears on Very First Airing of Late Night with David Letterman (February 1, 1982)

January 5, 2017 by 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

Most big fans know, but many do not, when David Letterman aired his first episode of the Late Show, he had a guest that is quite familiar to all of us:  Bill Murray.  We wanted to share this important television moment and have found an archive of the entire 43 minute episode (minus commercials).

Place careful attention to the 9:50 mark of the episode when David introduces his first ever guest, Bill Murray and ushers in a new era of Late Night that has changed the landscape forever.  It is fitting that a pioneer such as Bill Murray would have the honor of sharing the stage with David Letterman during this premiere event on February 1, 1982.

Enjoy this step back in time, 37 years ago, when the comedy forces of Bill and David came together.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPjMCzFb1AY

Seven-Year-Old Charleston YouTube Sensation Gabby is Honored with a Doll

January 4, 2017 by 1 Comment

Media Release:  Family Video Network Partner Seven-Year-Old Gabby Gets A New Year’s Surprise

2017 American Girl of the Year Looks Just Like Gabby and Shares Her Name, Too!

CHARLESTON, S.C., Jan. 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Imagine the excitement a young girl would experience to see and hold a doll that looks just like her and, coincidentally, shared her name. Seven-year-old South Carolina-based Gabby, star of the YouTube channel Gabriella Damaris Show, was thrilled to learn that the American Girl “Girl of the Year” 2017, not only looked just like her with dark skin and curly hair, but the doll also shared her name:  Gabriela.  Family Video Network, her YouTube network, worked with Mattel to get the doll shipped to her ahead of its release to surprise Gabby over the holidays.  Gabby did not know what she would be opening when the camera started rolling. The result is totally priceless.  “She has curly hair just like me! And I just really love her skin tone, which is like the same skin tone as mine. Like this whole doll is perfect.” American Girl and Gabriella Damaris Show fans can check out the surprise in this YouTube clip, which was posted on New Year’s Day.

https://youtu.be/93FlGiYsnms

About Gabriella Damaris Show:

Gabby and Mommy are a friendly, funny, mommy-daughter team who love to open and review cool toys. Gabby enjoys reading aloud from her favorite books, dance, and do gymnastics. The channel started in 2014 and already has over 26,000 subscribers and over 5 million total video views.

About Family Video Network:

Family Video Network is a YouTube network that was launched in 2014 that features a highly curated collection of child-focused and family-friendly channels providing content that is both safe and entertaining for children and their families.  In two and a half years, the network has gone from a mere concept to a full-blown Multi-Channel Network (MCN), boasting 53 channels with a combined 3.1 million subscribers and over 2 billion combined views.  FVN’s founders are dedicated to supporting the network’s channels, helping them grow, and connecting brands with the content creators.  FVN’s roster includes some of the top talent, as well as new creators, in the Toy and Family Vlogging genres, including Mommy And Gracie Show, Naiah and Elli Toys Show, HeyThatsMike, Toy Kingdom, Daisy’s Toy Vlog, and others.

**Gabby and her mom, Damaris, are available for interviews.**

Gabriella Damaris Show Instagram

Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. Frankly and this Station make no warranties or representations in connection therewith.

SOURCE Family Video Network

Why the Dylan Roof Trial is Important to Charleston and America

January 4, 2017 by 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

In June, 2015, Charleston came under international spotlight with one of the most heinous acts ever committed in the United States.  It sent shivers down the spines of citizens around the world and awakened feelings that most have left hidden for years.  Today, after an emotional trial, the sentencing begins and the fate of this murder rests in the hands of twelve citizens.  By the end of today or this week, Dylan Roof will either spend his life in a confined cell or meet his death.

Why has this act and trial been so important to Charleston and America?  We determined some core reasons

  • It brought to the spotlight that racial tensions continue to exist in the United States.  President Obama broke a life changing and eminent barrier becoming the first African American President of the United States.  He has fought for racial equality as have prominent leaders for centuries.  The struggle still exists.  This act was a reminder of the true separation point that still remains between blacks and whites
  • Gun control is a real concern.  Whether you are pro or anti, the argument remains, guns are in the hands of some bad people.  Any sane person, knows, if a criminal or insane individual wants a gun, no amount of legislation will stop them.  The black market is and will continue to exist.  Maybe it is time for lawmakers to stop going after the law-abiding owners and look at ways to infiltrate the underground weapons market.
  • Peace has a place in the wake of tragedy.  Whether it is a murder or losing the World Series, many cities around the country choose, violence, looting, anger and hate to address their feelings.  Charleston demonstrated love, unity and hope as their method of grieving.
  • Prayer and faith are stronger than most can comprehend.  On a quiet Wednesday evening in a house of worship, nine innocent worshippers lost their lives in what most deem the safest place in the world; under the watchful eye of our Lord.  That was not the case for Emanuel AME.  Today, congregants in Charleston and around the country, remain strong to their faith and beliefs.
  • This goes much deeper than black and white.  Some may simplify this event as a hate crime by a white male on the black population.  Since the event, we have learned that this is not a factor simply of black and white.  Education, ignorance, embedded hatred and economics were all contributing factors not just for this event, but similar incidence in the past.
  • We are not driven by fear – The shootings could have had a devastating impact on this community.  We could have been cautious where we prayed, shopped or walked.  We could have ignored other races and creeds passing by, but we didn’t.  Charleston continues to be one of the friendliest cities in the United States and that is something we are proud of.
  • The punishment fits the crime.  How many times do we see criminals released because they could afford the best lawyers or serve limited sentences for good behavior.  No matter what the jury rules, justice will be served.
  • Remembrance is a way to keep legacies alive – Each year we remember the fallen.  A beautiful mural remains at Redux and flowers continue to be left at the entrance way of the church.  Throughout the world, Charleston was showered for months with well wishes.  That is a way to find goodness in evil; to remember.

As we see the final chapter of this horrific moment in our history play out, our thoughts continue to remain with the victims, families, congregation, Charleston and the world.

James & John's Islands, SC

Is James Island Becoming the New West Ashley?

January 2, 2017 by 2 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

It is often said that a dog owner over time begins to take on the attributes and look of its furry companion.  This analogy may hold true for James Island, SC.  Once the gateway to the natural wonders of Johns Island and Folly Beach, is now taking on a facelift right before our eyes.

Just a bridge away from downtown Charleston, beautiful Windermere area of West Ashley and Johns Island, James Island is a hub for the beauty of the coast.  While it has struggled to find its own identity, James Island is still a resourceful community based town that took pride in family and local commerce, tradition, sports and education.

Like most of Charleston county, times are evolving and changes are happening that some see as progress while others see as a loss of identity.

One very distinct commonality between West Ashley and James Island remains:  Struggle to differentiate from Charleston and find its own sense of identity.

Black Diamond Group Development of new structure for Walgreens relocation
Black Diamond Group Development of new structure for Walgreens relocation

Signs of the changing landscape of James Island:

  • O2 Fitness will be joining the Folly Road retail strip along with Gold’s Gym – Two known chain fitness corporations.
  • PetSmart will be opening in the BiLo plaza in 2017.
  • There are now 3 Harris Teeters within seven miles on the same road.
  • Camp and Folly Road Improvement Project
  • Rite-Aid, CVS and Walgreens are within 3 miles of each other
  • Folly Road offers a bike lane, but it is still in a high risk, high traffic area
  • Traffic issues on Folly Road have gotten worse pouring overflow into HarborView, Riverland and Maybank
  • Within 3 miles are three fast food chain pizza companies:  Marcos, Dominos and Little Caesar’s
  • The Roller Risk on Folly Road that created so many childhood memories is now gone.
  • There are 7 automotive parts and/or repair shops with a 4-mile radius.
  • Chik-fil-a, Publix, Sonic, Huddle House, IHOP, Lowe’s, Wal-Mart, Arby’s, TCBY, Dollar Tree, Wendy’s, McDonald’s and Tuesday Morning contribute to the corporate logos high above the roadways.
  • Badd Kitty was welcomed in 2016 to James Island
  • New housing developments in the works or completed on Fort Johnson, Folly Road and Maybank Highway.
  • Farmer’s Market moved from a neighborhood park to the back lot of The Pour House

These are a few of the changes happening on James Island right before our eyes.  Soon, this small town, with its own unique identity only a stone throw away from Charleston, Folly and Johns Island, will become a corporate suburb.

Do not be surprised if the rise of hotels soon becomes the new skyline of James Island and tourists adopt this area as their vacation starting point.

In Memoriam – Celebrity Deaths in 2016 (Video)

January 1, 2017 by 0 Comments

You don’t have to be a reporter, journalist or fortune teller to know that 2016 was a difficult year for many saying goodbye to celebrities that we knew and loved at different points in our lives.  Actors, musicians, athletes who were respected icons influencing our upbringing were lost.  We found some of the best video montages to help us remember one last time, those celebrities we said goodbye to in 2016.

 

 

 

Remember them fondly

“There are no happy endings.
Endings are the saddest part,
So just give me a happy middle
And a very happy start.” – Shel Silverstein

 

Feel Charleston – The Best Sunsets in Charleston, SC

December 31, 2016 by 0 Comments

moultrie3 In a town known for romance and beaches, a perfect majestic IMAX in the sky is the perfect expression of love.  With its radiant colors, almost canvas like clouds and backdrops of oceans and church tops, a Charleston sunset is like no other.  It captures the day, bottles it up and leaves you breathless for more.  It is truly one of the many great wonders of this Holy City.  As an ode to the awe inspiring Charleston sunsets, here are some of the best places to see this daily display of magic. Best Locations to watch a Charleston Sunset

  • Fort Moutrie Beach – Hidden just past a dirt lot between Fort Moutrie and a dead end just at the end of Center Street past Sullivan’s Island.   This is a natural preserve of oceanic life.  With the Ravenel Bridge in the distance, the putter of baby crabs at your feet, a hill top to the left, Palmetto trees at the entrance and a spectrum of colors you will not see anywhere else, this hidden treasure is one of the must sees in Charleston.  Located about 3 miles from Center Street and Coleman Boulevard, it is a well kept secret here in Charleston.  Be warned, once you bring a lawn chair or fishing pole, you may never turn back.
  • Vendue Inn Rooftop Bar – You cannot think of Charleston without thinking of our churches with their historic appeal and empowering peaks reaching for the clouds.  From the top of the Vendue Inn Rooftop Bar, looking into the heart of the city, the sun sets just behind the churches.  At the right moment, you can witness the sun hugging the tip of the church top as it sets in for the evening.  It is a breathtaking moment and one that has been captured on camera by many a local and tourist.
  • Brittlebank Park – Known for laughing children playing on the swings and slides, local shrimpers off the pier, crew and sail boats at peace on the dock and runners passing through, Brittlebank is a park for the community.  Whether you are walking the dog, watching sailboats glide across the water, having a picnic or playing in the sand, Brittlebank is a beautiful place for
    Fort Moultrie / Sullivan’s Island Beach

    families, couples or self reflection.  It also has a scenic sunset.  When the weather is right and you get a cold front or strong breeze, you will see deep reds and oranges like no other place in Charleston.  Right on Lockwood Boulevard next to Joe Riley Stadium, it is in the heart of Charleston and open for all to visit and enjoy.

  • Pitt Street Bridge – Located on the edge of Pitt Street in Mount Pleasant, this is a popular local spot for people watching, have a relaxing picnic or BBQ or watching a free show in the sky.  Each morning and evening, over the calm waters, you will find many a bystander enjoying the slow rise and decline of the sun over the horizon.  Rich in color, this spot is the Mount Pleasant answer to Earth’s theater.
  • Morris Island Lighthouse Beach – Due to the geographic alignment of this beach, the sun sets in the marsh behind the beach similar to Isle of Palms. With the Morris Island Lighthouse, situated in the center of the water, old tree limbs rising out of the sand and a level of seclusion similar to Fort Moutrie Beach, this is a beautiful spot to end your day.  On a good night, the sky will turn a rich shade of blue and linger until the last glimmer of bridges and boats can be seen.  Put on some comfortable shoes because you need to walk a quarter to a half a mile to get to the beach after you park your car.  Just head to Folly Beach, make a left and stay on that road until it ends.  There you will be at the entrance to the beach area.
  • The Battery  – One of the true fixtures of Charleston, The Battery is the end of the peninsula in downtown Charleston.  With its historic reminders, protective trees, subtle breezes from the harbor and an occasional dolphin siting between sail boats passing, The Battery is one of the most popular spots in all of Charleston.  From boat watching to people watching, the battery offers up a constant flow of traffic.  In the evening, the crowds disappear retiring to their hotel rooms or homes and what is left is a long walkway of peace and a beautiful sunset over the Charleston Harbor.
  • Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview Rooftop Bar – 301 Savannah Highway, just on the outskirts of downtown Charleston between the peninsula and West Ashley and overlooking the marina, this rooftop bar, located high above the city of Charleston, has an incredible birds eye view
    Brittlebank Park
    Brittlebank Park

    of the city and the water.  It is not a perfect point of view to see each second of the sun sink to the west, but it is worth the price of admission.  Go up one evening before the sun sets. Enjoy a martini and let it all in.

  • Sunrise Park / Melton Peter Demetre Park – 640 Wampler Dr, Charleston, SC (James Island) – This is considered one of James Island’s hidden secrets.  It is a tiny little beach area but offers a peaceful view of the sunset and has been known to be a spot for one of two intimate weddings.
  • Bowen’s Island Restaurant – 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412 (James Island) – Be warned: The unpaved road to get to the restaurant resting on the marsh is not going to be gentle on your car.  Please drive slowly.  Saturated with oyster shells and marsh life, this is a true natural preserve.  It is not a big spot to watch sunsets, so most nights, you will have privacy to enjoy the show.  This is for your quieter viewers.
Fort Moultrie Beach

There you have it.  A few of the memorable spots to enjoy the wonder of a Charleston sunset.