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Health and Wellness

MUSC Chosen for Phase III of Vaccine Trials

As the race to find a cure for Coronavirus continues, MUSC Health joins researches through a vaccine trial. Because one of MUSC’s potential vaccines has shown promising signs fighting the virus, they were selected as part of a Phase III trial. 

In order for a vaccine to become safe and ready for mass manufacturing, it must first go through the three phases. Beginning with one, this phase is administered on small groups and geared toward the safety of the patients. They then collect data on the response to the vaccine. Phase two is typically administered on hundreds of people while fine-tuning the specific amount of regimen necessary. Phase three involves thousands of people while focusing on how it reacts to an entire population. Once all three have been successfully completed, the vaccine is on its way to becoming FDA approved. 

At MUSC, emergency medicine physician Gary Headden, M.D., states that “the science behind [the vaccine] looks good, so I’d say I’m optimistic.”

In order to attract interested participants, MUSC is planning a webpage launch that will officially open the trial to new applicants. They’re seeking several hundred. Some patients within the trial will receive a placebo while others will receive the vaccine. Patients will remain overseen for a grand total of two years. 

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Featured

Poll Shows That Informed Voters Want Santee Cooper Sold

Last week the South Carolina Senate decided to not move forward with the consultant responsible for the vetting and research for the possible sale of Santee Cooper, a move that could leave the 2 million direct-serve and co-op customers of Santee Cooper responsible for the $8 billion debt they owe.

Despite this decision, S.C. Club For Growth, a group of South Carolinians whose mission is to promote economic growth in the state, recently released a poll that showed overwhelming support for the sale of Santee Cooper among informed voters.

Nearly three-quarters of the state was more likely to support the Santee Cooper sale if a private company agreed to pay down the $8 billion debt and prevent customers from carrying the weight of paying down the debt.

However, the poll also found that a large amount of the state is still unaware of the V.C. Summer Project that caused a majority of the debt owed by Santee Cooper.

The poll showed that only 48.3% of the state is even aware of the debacle. And, when you look at just Santee Cooper and co-op customers, that number is even lower.

With news of the South Carolina Senate not wanting to move forward with ICF Consulting, the future of Santee Cooper continues to be unclear. And, as more South Carolinians become aware of the billion dollar problem and the effect it may have on them, frustrations will continue to grow and support for the sale will increase.

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Eat & Drink

Get Your Tickets-Wine Under the Oaks is Back at Boone Hall Plantation This Sunday.

Featured Image Credit: boonehallplantation.com

With the holiday season well under way, one of Charleston’s most popular seasonal events is right around the corner. This Sunday, December 2nd, everyone’s favorite antebellum-era plantation is serving up all the wine in the most stunning outdoor setting and we “decant” wait.

From 1pm to 5pm, on the back lawn of Boone Hall Plantation, you’ll find wine samples as well as complimentary bubbles, desserts and oysters at this year’s Wine Under the Oaks event. Boone Hall Farms has even put together a variety of food and wine pairings to be enjoyed throughout the day.

In addition to all the sips and bites, some of Charleston’s finest chefs will be performing wine and cooking demonstrations. Local artists and writers will be represented with artwork displays and local writers will showcase published works at the Authors Village. All the while, you’ll be grooving to live music from local jazz saxophonist Michael Quinn!

Be sure to get a photo in front of the plantation home, as it will be beautifully decorated for the holidays. VIP tables are sold out, but general admission is still available for $55 and includes all of the above festivities.

If the complimentary food and wine isn’t enough, area restaurants will be serving up gourmet selections at reduced prices. Attendees will get access to special pricing on featured wines at the World of Wines retail tent.

It’s the perfect spot to grab that host gift for all of the holiday parties you’ve got coming up. But, if you keep those bottles for yourself, there are plenty of unique gift options from the other specialty vendors.

Keep in mind that this event is limited to guests aged 21 and over. For those of you who are able to attend, this is the perfect kick-off to the holiday season and you’ll likely experience some serious FOMO (fear of missing out) if you are not there!

Tickets are final sale and can be purchased online in advance here or at the gate until they are sold out!

Also, be sure to double check that your tickets are for this event, not regular tours of the plantation! Rain or shine, this is one of the best events in the Lowcountry and the perfect way to kick off the holidays!

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Featured

Peak Your Interest With These 12 Hiking Spots in SC

Image Source: Unsplash.com

Saturday is National Take a Hike Day, so it’s time to get outdoors for some fresh air, scenery, and exercise. There are miles and miles of trails to choose from throughout South Carolina. Whether you’re looking for forests, beaches or mountains, our lovely state offers a little bit of everything. Here are just a few spots to get up and out, away from the mainstream.

1. Chatooga River Trail, Sumter
Chattooga River Trail is a hiking trail in Oconee County, South Carolina within Sumter National Forest and Ellicott Rock Wilderness. The entire trail is 6.4 miles with a total elevation gain of 814 feet.

Wander around casually or plan a two day backpack trip among the rushing river and waterfalls, endless coves and ravines and banks covered in wildflowers. The mountains and cliffs on the Georgia side of the river form a scenic backdrop.

2. Congaree National Park, Hopkins
The only National Park in South Carolina, Congaree National Park is home to the oldest bottomland hardwood forest in the U.S., with over 25 miles of hiking trails If you need a little extra help, there are ranger guided tours on Saturdays all year round. All trails start at the visitors center and are well-marked. Follow along the valley and mountain stream and you’ll find a 100-ft. waterfall.

3. Audubon’s Francis Biedler Forest, Harleyville
This 18,000-acre forested wetland is perfect if you’re seeking a change of scenery from mountains to a bird and wildlife sanctuary. In addition to thousand-year-old trees, a range of wildlife, and the quiet flow of blackwater, Beidler is the world’s largest virgin cypress-tupelo swamp forest. Whether you’re experienced or new to hiking, there are miles and miles to check out or you can stick close to the boardwalk. All facilities here are wheelchair accessible.

4. Bull Island, Awendaw
Only accessible by boat, this one may take a little planning. The island trail is a little different with maritime forests, vistas os salt marsh along Awendaw Creek, and a scenic overlook and boardwalk at Walnut Grove.

Bull Island is permanently sheltered from development after getting hit by the storm surge from Hurricane Hugo and recovering at its own pace. Bull Island is a major component of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge that is home to alligators, birds and a 1.5 mile Boneyard Beach where Red Cedars and Live Oaks have become skeletons of their former selves. Take a day’s hike through forest and wetlands and along beaches on a barrier island.

5. Foothills Trail/Lower Whitewater Falls, Oconee County
This is a 75-mile trail that travels across the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Be on the lookout for wildlife such as black bears, white-tailed deer, bobcats and bald eagles as well as some rare wildflowers! Great for a day hike or overnight trips, there are several beautiful waterfalls, a labyrinth of old timber roads and a lushly forested terrain!

The trail takes you to the summit of South Carolina’s highest mountain and down into the Laurel Valley and Jocassee Gorges area, with a section of the trail following the S.C./N.C. state line. You may also stumble upon the largest Fraser magnolia in the state. It stands at 86 feet tall, 6 feet around with giant tulip poplars, hemlocks, and chestnut oaks surrounding.

6. Jones Gap State Park/Pinnacle Pass/Gap Loop/Rainbow Falls, Marietta
Pro Tip: this one is extremely popular, but well worth it, so get there early! The trails here cover over 11,000 acres. With more than 30 miles of trails at Jones Gap State Park, there are a lot of choices for whatever adventure you are looking for– long, short, amarteur, or challenging.

This hike covers a pleasant, moderately strenuous trail that traverses boulders, passes several streams, and follows alongside the Saluda River. There is also an interactive ecology center!

7. Lee Falls, Walhalla
It will only take you half a day to hike one of South Carolina’s more beautiful and seldom-visited waterfalls, which fall 50 feet from a mighty granite cliff! Tamassee Creek drops 100 feet in four tiers to form Lee Falls. The mountain cove into which the falls are tucked and lack of sunlight seeping through only add to the ambiance!

Paris Mountain Sulpher Springs Trail, Greenville
A rugged mountain hike, this trail will take you up and down rocky slopes, through forests, and back again for a 3.5 mile loop.

Paris Mountain is an immense rock that endured while the mountains around it weathered away. Two reservoirs add beauty to the park, providing recreation and scenic vistas. This area has been protected since the 1890s and due to the steepness of the terrain, much of the park has never been logged.

8. Poinsett State Park, Wedgefield
Looking for something a little more family and pet friendly? The “Mountains of the Midlands,” are full of fun trails and amazing views. This hike will have you connecting with nature and companions from beginning to end. The best part about all those beautiful sights surrounding you? They’re free!

9. Raven Cliff Falls Trail, Greenville County
This 8.8 mile trail rates a 7 out of 10 on the difficulty scale and is not for the faint of heart, but the sites you will see make it a must!  With a beautiful waterfall and a charming walk over a suspension bridge, you’ll want to take a day for this great quick getaway hike!

You’ll also find the Sassafras Mountain Trail here. If you’re looking for almost 10 miles of amazing vistas, this is the spot for you!

10. Sesquincentennial State Park, Columbia
Another Family-friendly and pet-friendly park with a load of amenities, here you’ll find 1,400 acres of breathtaking nature in the heart of Columbia. There is an admission fee, but this park offers so much and makes for the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life or a quick day trip if you aren’t already in the state capital.

11. Table Rock State Park, Pickens
Depending on your physical ability, this hike is strenuous or moderate. This hike is 6.8 miles and a section cuts through a field of boulders. The view at the top is one amazing, jaw-dropping sight and well worth every step!

This iconic trail is one of the most popular in the state, offering two great overlooks with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The granite dome of Table Rock, the pristine mountain lake, and the surrounding trails —all draw visitors from far and near.

12. Wannamaker North Trail, North Charleston
This 13-mile trail is designed for mountain bicyclists of all experience levels, but also open to hikers, walkers and runners. Trails wind by beautiful live oaks and beech trees, while offering thrilling natural and man-made trail elements. The terrain also contains tight curves and elevation changes.

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Featured

Ready, Set, Go: Upcoming Charleston Races

Featured Image Credit: Daniel Island Happy Hour 5k Facebook Page

Whether you’re an experienced runner or looking to start a new hobby, there’s a finish line for you to cross. These upcoming races around Charleston will help you finish out your year feeling strong and accomplished!

 9/11 Heroes Run 

Where: Daniel Island, South Carolina (Charleston Fire and Police Department)

When: Saturday, September 8th, 2018 – 9 a.m.

The 9/11 Heroes Run is also a 5k and supports a great cause. Before the race starts you’ll get to meet the special guests of honor, Rob Jones, a paralympic wounded warrior, the family of fallen North Charleston Police Officer, Ryan McCluen, and Chris Doty, the York County Sherrif’s Deputy and twin brother of fallen York County Deputy, Mike Doty.

Carolina Children’s Charity Run

Where: Palmetto Islands County Park – Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina

When: Saturday, September 22nd, 2018 – 9 a.m.

Whether you want to participate in the 5k run or the family fun walk which follow immediately after the start of the 5k, this is a cause to run/walk for.

South Carolina Aquarium Turtle Trek 5k

Where: Isle of Palms, South Carolina

When: Saturday, September 29th, 2018 – 5:30 p.m.

All proceeds of the South Carolina Aquarium Turtle Trek 5k will support the Sea Turtle Care Center and the aquarium’s initiatives. Be sure to join the fun at the after-party and award ceremony from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at The Windjammer.

Lowcountry Trail Half Marathon & 5k

Where: Johns Island County Park

When: Saturday, October 13th, 2018 – 8:30 a.m.

The Lowcountry Trail Half Marathon and 5k offers the perfect trail run with beautiful fall foliage, nature, and gorgeous trees.

Race for Freedom 5k Run

Where: Wannamaker Park, North Charleston, South Carolina

When: Saturday, October 27th, 2018 – 9 a.m.

Dress as your favorite superhero and join other superheroes as you run to support local survivors of human trafficking.

Holiday Festival of Lights Run and Walk

Where: James Island County Park, James Island, South Carolina

When: Wednesday, November 7th & Thursday, November 8th, 2018 – 6:30 p.m.

Get a preview of the Holiday Festival of Lights while the park is closed for traffic and enjoy this two-mile non-competitive run and walk.

41st Annual Turkey Day Run 

Where: Historic Charleston and Battery, South Carolina

When: Thursday, November 22nd, 2018 – 9 a.m.

Starting and ending at Marion Square, the Turkey Day Run is the largest 5k in Charleston and has one of the best post-race parties around.

28th Annual Reindeer Run 

Where: Corner of East Bay and Queen Streets, Charleston, South Carolina

When: Saturday, December 8th, 2018 – 9 a.m.

Come dressed and ready to run in your most festive outfit and you might win best costume at the Beer Graden after-party.

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Featured

Get Outdoors with These Four Activities in CHS

Featured Image Credit: http://dhmrealestate.com/folly-beach/

As the summer days roll by it’s easy to feel like you’re running out of things to do, luckily there is never any shortage of outdoor adventures in Charleston! If you like walking through beautiful scenery, kayaking, paddleboarding, or doing really anything outside, than we have you covered!

Explore Shem Creek Park

Shem Creek Park is great for a leisurely afternoon stroll. It’s conveniently located right next to Shem Creek, so if all that walking makes you hungry there are lots of restaurants just around the corner. But before you let the restaurants draw you in, be sure to explore all the wooden boardwalks the cross over the marshland. Bring your fishing rod along or just sit and enjoy the view. If you’re looking to spend a day in the serenity of nature, Shem Creek Park is the place to go.

Take a stroll in Hampton Park

Hampton Park is one of Charleston’s largest parks and is located in downtown Charleston. It’s a free public park that is perfect for anyone who wants to walk, bike or run through nature without having to drive far to get there. It features a paved trail that winds through the park and is lined by incredible moss-covered oaks. With the trees leaning over the trails and repelling the summer sun, you’ll be stay cool while enjoying whatever activity you choose. And don’t forget to snap a few pictures of the many unusual oak trees before you leave. They look like something out of a movie.

Get on the water with Sunset Paddleboarding

Sunset paddle boarding, hosted by Coastal Expeditions, is an awesome way to not only see the natural environment of Charleston, but also learn some of the history behind it while getting a workout in. The paddleboard tours are offered in Shem Creek and Folly Creek. They last about 2 hours and paddle boarders often see Bottlenose Dolphins and other wildlife. Sunset tours are also offered! If you want to experience Charleston by water, learn about the ecosystems surrounding Folly and Shem Creek and catch a glimpse of some wildlife. Tickets are $52 per person.

Spend a day on Folly Beach

Don’t let the name fool you, Folly Beach is much more than a beach. The area is overflowing with restaurants, parks, playgrounds, and even a dog park for your furry friend.

If you want to have a relaxing day at the beach, take a stroll along Folly’s 1,045-foot pier and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be standing on the 2nd longest pier on the east coast! Or, sign up for one of the many boat excursions offered at https://visitfolly.com/

For a more active beach day, rent a bike and cruise through the parks and nature trails all along the beach. Or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try out surfing, kayaking or paddleboarding. The beach is open year-round to the public and access if free. If you want to visit Folly Beach County Park, however, it costs $20 to park in the lot near the beach.

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Eat & Drink

Where to Dine for Charleston Restaurant Week

Featured Image Credit: Thrillist

There is no doubt that the culinary scene in Charleston is extraordinary. With such a wide variety of restaurants packed into such a small city-scape it can be hard to try every dish on your wishlist. Luckily, Charleston Restaurant Week is coming up on Sept. 5th through the 16th and is a chance for visitors and locals alike to engage in a true journey for the taste buds. With a week dedicated solely to expanding your palate and sampling some of the most exquisite dishes and lowcountry fare the city has to offer, here’s a preview of just a few of the amazing deals coming up.  

Lowcountry Bistro

Although Lowcountry Bistro is relatively affordable throughout the rest of the year, Charleston Restaurant Week gives you the opportunity to try something new without being scared of the price. You can get two courses for the same price as one entree on a normal night.

 

2 courses for $20

The Watch: Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits

Located at the top of The Restoration Hotel, this farm to table restaurant uses local ingredients and provides incredible views of downtown. This is one of Charleston Restaurant Week’s best deals since one large plate almost equals the price of three Restaurant Week courses.

 

3 courses for $30

Swamp Fox Restaurant

Named after General Francis Marion, the Swamp Fox has been serving its southern cuisine since 1924. Situated in the Francis Marion Hotel, the Swamp Fox Restaurant has award-winning Shrimp and Grits and live piano music Thursday through Saturday. Serenade yourself with some music, take in magnificent views of Marion Square Park and enjoy a top-notch meal without breaking the bank.

 

3 courses for $30

The Macintosh

The Macintosh is located on Charleston’s bustling upper King Street just beneath its upstairs sister lounge, The Cocktail Club. The Macintosh is known for changing it’s menu daily and it’s delicious selection of seafood. With prices ranging from $5-$55, Charleston Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to any and all of their great selections.

3 courses for $40

5Church

What better restaurant to be number five on our list than 5Church? The interior design and ambiance of 5Church alone is enough to make you want to visit this Market Street restaurant, but the food will keep you coming back. With its diverse and ever-changing menu, it’s easy to want to try a bit of everything, and with this deal you won’t have to choose just one course!

 

3 courses for $40

Halls Chophouse

No restaurant list is ever complete without Halls Chophouse on it. This family owned restaurant offers mouthwatering dishes and impeccable service. One 8-oz filet is normally $44 alone, but during Restaurant Week you can treat yourself to that steak you’ve been dreaming of  and get a side, soup, plus dessert for about the same price.

 

3 courses for $50

Bohemian Bull

Just outside of Downtown Charleston, Bohemian Bull is a tavern + beer garden located on James Island. This eccentric spot is best known for its burgers, craft cocktails, draft beer and bustling brunch scene. Grab your best-friend, significant other, or anyone you know really because this 2 for $25 deal is one you’ll want to get in on.

2 people for $25

Spirit Line Dinner Cruise

Feeling extra adventurous? Then head out on a dinner cruise for Charleston Restaurant Week. With live entertainment, true waterfront dining and five entrees to choose from including poultry, fish and produce, it’s hard to beat this culinary experience.

 

4 courses for $45 weekdays / 4 courses for $50 weekends

Swig & Swine

In the mood for Barbeque? Swig & Swine has some of the best in town and they’re offering an awesome lunch deal for Restaurant Week. Located in West Ashley, they’re just a quick drive from downtown.

 

2 courses for $20

82 Queen

Located in Charleston’s historic french quarter, you’ll want to dine in 82 Queen’s breath-taking courtyard. Try their fresh, local cuisine and enjoy the staff’s superior southern hospitality with their exclusive Restaurant Week lunch special Monday through Friday.

 

2 courses for $15

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Featured

Dog Appreciation Day in CHS

Featured Image Credit: Unsplash

Dog Appreciation Day is August 26th and what better way to celebrate than taking your furry friend on a date to one of Charleston’s pet-friendly attractions! There’s no shortage of dog-friendly activities in the area so we’ve narrowed down the selection to a few local favorites:

Hampton Dog Park

This park boasts a large off-leash area where your pup can run free with his or her pals. There’s plenty of room for their favorite games, like catch, shade for when the sun is too bright and water for the thirsty pups. Hampton Dog Park also offers benches so you can relax while your pup makes friends.

James Island County Park

James Island County Park offers two different dog parks, one for small dogs and another for large dogs, but has one big lake for your best pal to enjoy a nice swim. To dry off they can run free in the off-leash areas and enjoy spending time on the beach with their other furry pals.

Wag-n-Splash

Wag-n-Splash is a fun, casual environment for the water loving dog. The facility has a heated salt water pool and trainers so all dogs with any level of swimming experience are welcome. Not only will your dog wag with joy, they’ll benefit from such a great workout and build muscles while reducing stress on their bones and joints.

Isle of Palms or Sullivans Island

The beach is the perfect spot for you and your pup to both enjoy the ocean breeze. No tanning for your furry friend though, leashed dogs are only allowed after 6 PM. So take them on an evening stroll before heading home to cuddle up.

Woof Gang Bakery

Just a fifteen minute drive from the beach,Woof Gang Bakery is located in Downtown, Charleston on King Street. Here you can treat your furry friend with a present and sweet treat after your evening stroll. They’ll be drooling with joy!

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