South Carolina Aquarium’s Shark Week Begins with Dive Shows and More

The South Carolina Aquarium celebrates Shark Week tomorrow, July 8 through Sunday, July 16. Visitors can experience a JAWesome lineup of shark-themed programs and activities as they learn more about these incredible creatures of the deep. 

                                            Image credit: South Carolina Aquarium

The Aquarium is home to many species of sharks, all of which are native to the waters of South Carolina. During their visit, guests can seek out the largest cartilaginous creatures that reside in the Great Ocean Tank, the deepest tank in North America at 42 feet deep. At its deepest point, large nurse sharks swim in and out of the reef caves before dazzling a few lucky guests by swimming flat against the windows, just inches from the hands of those reaching toward the tank. In the water column above, blacknose sharks and sandbar sharks glide slowly past, showcasing their rigid, triangular dorsal fins characteristic of many species of sharks. In one of several touch tank exhibits, guests can reach into the water to feel the rough scales of chain dogfish, a smaller species with a uniquely patterned body.

Throughout the week, special education programs will feature these cartilaginous creatures front and center. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about shark biology and behavior and even witness shark feedings. There will be plenty of opportunities to get hands-on through a shark scavenger hunt and a crowd favorite: the shark tooth dig, where guests will sift through sandy substrate to discover real shark teeth to take home as keepsakes.

"Sharks are so often misunderstood and have a notorious reputation that deters many from understanding the critical role they play in the health and wellbeing of our oceans," says Drew Heyward, senior visitor engagement manager. "By celebrating Shark Week — and catering our guest programming to share what truly makes sharks so special and influential— we hope to dispel common myths about sharks and create a greater appreciation of their purpose in our worlds oceans."

Shark Week at the Aquarium is the perfect place to escape the summer heat with a myriad of shark-themed experiences, all included with general admission. 

About the South Carolina Aquarium:

The South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston's No.1 family attraction, is home to more than 5,000 animals, from river otters and sharks to sea turtles and shorebirds, and represents the rich biodiversity of our state — from the mountains to the sea. Visitors can also get an inside look at the Sea Turtle Care Center™, a working hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick and injured sea turtles. While fulfilling its mission to promote education, conservation, and an exceptional visitor experience, the Aquarium also presents sweeping views of the Charleston Harbor along with interactive exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages. 

The South Carolina Aquarium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. The Aquarium is open seven days a week with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, December 25 and a half day on December 24 (open 9 a.m.–noon). Annual Aquarium membership with unlimited visits starts at $99. For more information, call (843) 577-FISH (3474) or visit scaquarium.org.

Nostalgic Vibes: Exploring the Hottest Trends of the 80s That Still Reign Today

The 1980s was an era of bold fashion, vibrant music, and technological advancements that left an indelible mark on popular culture. From iconic fashion statements to groundbreaking technological inventions, the '80s continue to influence and inspire modern trends. In this blog post, we'll take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to explore the hottest trends of the 80s and identify which ones have stood the test of time. 

1. Fashion Forward:

The 80s was a decade of flamboyant fashion and distinct styles. Some of the hottest fashion trends that emerged during this era include:

• Neon Colors: The love for neon hues was unparalleled in the 80s. From clothing to accessories, neon shades were everywhere. Today, neon continues to make periodic comebacks, especially during festival seasons and in activewear.
• Shoulder Pads: Power dressing was synonymous with the 80s, and shoulder pads were a crucial element of this trend. While they might not be as extreme as in the past, structured shoulder details can still be seen in contemporary blazers and jackets.
• Denim: The 80s witnessed the rise of denim as a fashion staple. Acid-washed jeans, denim jackets, and denim skirts became iconic choices. Denim remains a timeless fabric, with classic jean styles and denim jackets still being popular today.
• Leggings and Leotards: Inspired by the aerobics craze, leggings and leotards were a prominent fashion trend in the 80s. Today, leggings have become a wardrobe staple, being worn as both athletic wear and everyday fashion. 

2. Music Madness:

The 80s was a musically diverse decade that witnessed the birth of various genres and subcultures. Some of the hottest trends in music during the 80s that continue to resonate today include:

• Pop Music: The 80s saw the rise of pop icons like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Prince, who shaped the sound of the decade. Pop music remains a dominant force in the industry, with artists like Taylor Swift and Bruno Mars carrying on the tradition.
• Electronic Dance Music (EDM): The synth-driven beats and electronic experimentation of the 80s laid the foundation for EDM. Today, EDM has evolved into a global phenomenon, with festivals and DJs drawing huge crowds worldwide.

3. Technological Breakthroughs:

The 80s witnessed remarkable advancements in technology, setting the stage for the digital revolution. Some of the trends from that era that are still prevalent today include:

• Personal Computers: The 80s marked the era of personal computing, with the introduction of the iconic Apple Macintosh and IBM PC. Today, personal computers are an integral part of our lives, albeit significantly more powerful and compact.
• Video Games: The 80s gave birth to the video game industry, with arcade games like Pac-Man and home consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) gaining immense popularity. Video games continue to be a multi-billion-dollar industry, with modern consoles and online gaming platforms captivating audiences worldwide.
• Walkman and Portable Music: The Sony Walkman revolutionized music consumption by allowing people to carry their favorite tunes wherever they went. Today, portable music has evolved into streaming services like Spotify, offering instant access to a vast library of songs.

The 80s was an era of bold fashion choices, musical diversity, and technological breakthroughs. Many trends that emerged during this period have managed to withstand the test of time, leaving an indelible impact on contemporary culture. Whether it's the neon colors that periodically resurface or the enduring influence of 80s pop icons, the hottest trends of the 80s continue to inspire and shape our modern world. From fashion to music and technology, the nostalgia of the 80s still holds a special place in our hearts and continues to be celebrated today.

Did you grow up in the 80s? What are your favorite memories of that time?

The Jonas Brothers + The Children’s Place Launch Best School Day Ever Campaign

In the face of recent budget cuts affecting school districts nationwide, the global music superstars The Jonas Brothers, and the largest pure-play children’s specialty retailer in North America, The Children’s Place, are teaming up to help a school near you. This transformative campaign which starts today and ends July 30th, is not only about monetary support; it’s about igniting change. The Jonas Brothers and The Children’s Place will be hosting their Best School Day Ever campaign, which will gift one lucky school a $100,000 grant to be used for the betterment of their school. Moreover, the chosen school will have the exclusive opportunity to attend a private Jonas Brothers concert at a secret location in August in New Jersey.  

This campaign will not only bring a smile to your face but will make a significant difference to a deserving school. As fathers themselves, The Jonas Brothers are committed to enriching children’s educational journeys and fostering a community spirit. Along with the dedication of the ultimate #gilrdads, The Jonas Brothers and The Children’s Place are also firmly committed to the betterment of children everywhere. This sentiment is echoed by the brand’s initiative last year by opening three research-based learning centers across the country, an incredible stride in tackling the current state of underfunded public schools. 

The deadline to submit applications for this impactful grant ends on July 30. We're calling all parents with children in grades K-8. If your child is enrolled in a non-tuition-based school for the 2023-2024 academic year, we encourage you to nominate their school. To do so, simply visit The Children’s Place mobile app, where official contest rules and the brands’ newest back-to-school product collections, including expressive and empowering t-shirts, fun backpacks, colorful polos, on-trend denim, footwear, and more, can be purchased. 

This campaign features the three brothers giving a first-day-of-school pep talk to Kevin’s oldest daughter, Alena. The video includes the brand’s newest Back-to-School collection and is designed to inspire kids to look and feel their best for their first day of school and beyond. The upbeat video features daydream sequences of Alena’s ‘Best School Day Ever,’ which concludes with a musical performance of the Jonas Brothers’ latest single, “Celebrate!”

“Providing for a better tomorrow for children is what it’s all about. Kids can change the world, and being able to support them and their school communities with this $100,000 prize… we feel a lot of gratitude to join The Children’s Place on their mission to give back and inspire the next generation of learners to chase their dreams,” said Joe Jonas. 

Contest Details:

In addition to the 2023 Best School Day Ever Contest, The Children’s Place will continue to scale its national program of revitalizing public spaces in local communities as Learning Centers by launching three additional learning center locations throughout 2023. Working collaboratively with local libraries and community centers, The Children’s Place Learning Centers will each feature thousands of books, school supplies, and educational toys. Each space will feature comfortable seating arrangements, interactive chalkboard walls, and empowering wall murals and artwork. It will serve as a safe haven where children in each community can access reading materials and learning supplies while allowing themselves to thrive in imagining.

Certified Barbeque Judging Class Coming to Greenville

The South Carolina Barbeque Association (SCBA) will hold a one-day seminar in Greenville to train new barbeque judges. The seminar is July 15, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Project Host, located at 525 Academy St. 

Registration for the seminar is open to SCBA members and costs $50 per person, which includes a catered barbeque lunch. Non-members must join SCBA prior to or while registering for the seminar to be eligible to attend. SCBA annual membership dues are $45 for an individual or $60 for a family. 

The seminar is the first step in becoming a SCBA-certified barbeque judge. After completing the class, potential judges will continue their training with hands-on experience as novice judges at four SCBA-sanctioned barbeque competitions. Competitions are held around the state at festivals and fairs, as well as other community events or stand-alone BBQ contests. 

Those interested in becoming SCBA-certified judges and attending the July 15th seminar should visit www.scbarbeque.com to register for the seminar and/or join the SCBA. 

4 Practical Tips For Reducing Stress During The Holidays

The holidays are the time of year when families and friends are supposed to come together and rejoice in the season. It’s a time when lights are glittering, and carolers bring joy through song. However, for many the holidays are a source of stress. Trying to juggle responsibilities like work and relationships while also trying to do last minute shopping, attend parties, and decorate can put people into overload and cause a lot of stress. 

It is important to take the holidays back by finding ways to not stress about them so you can actually enjoy what they are all about. To get it right takes planning, prioritizing, maintaining personal wellness, and embracing the core essence of the holiday season. In this article, we will go over several practical tips to help you enjoy the holidays like you did when you were a kid. 

1 - Start by outsourcing

The first step in being able to enjoy the holidays is to admit to yourself that one person cannot do everything alone. It takes a team to be able to get through the obligations that come with the season. 

This is where the concept of hiring help for the holiday season comes into play.

Delegating tasks can be a game changer. Instead of juggling multiple responsibilities, you can hire professionals to take care of tasks such as shopping, gift wrapping, cleaning, cooking, and even paying for professional Christmas light installation. 

When you have people doing these tasks for you, it frees up your time to handle your social obligations and spend time doing the things you enjoy. This is what the season is about, after all.

2 - Prioritize and plan

Holiday stress often comes from feeling overwhelmed with the number of tasks to complete and the lack of time to get them done. If you prioritize these tasks and plan them out, then this can make it feel a lot less stressful. 

The first step is to list down everything that you need to do during the holiday season. This includes shopping for gifts, preparing meals, decorating the house, sending cards, and attending events.

Once you have a list you need to prioritize the order that the items should be done. Create categories for each task and then label them according to their urgency. 

Once you've prioritized your tasks, it's time to slot them into your schedule. Break down larger tasks into manageable chunks and distribute them across your available time. Do not anything until the last minute, which can cause panic and stress.

3 - Focus on what matters

The holiday season is about more than just the perfect meal or the most beautiful decorations. It's about spending quality time with loved ones, creating warm memories, and celebrating the year that's passed. 

When you start to feel burned out from standing in long lines at the mall, or attending a work holiday party after a long day, then it is time to take a step back. Make it a point to do something with your family or friends that brings joy like having a meal together, or even just going for a sled ride through the snow. 

Taking this step back will give you some breathing room and remind you that the season is not about stress but about the joy that comes from making time for your loved ones. 

Rather than spending your time in lines, go work at a soup kitchen for a day to give back to those in need. This will help you put everything into perspective and recharge your batteries by helping you feel thankful for what you have. 

4 - Take care of yourself

Balancing personal wellness with festive obligations might seem challenging, but it's key to enjoying the holiday season to the fullest. The holiday season can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Recognize and acknowledge your feelings. It's okay not to feel joyful all the time. 

When you start feeling like you are going through the motions, it’s time to schedule some time to do something for yourself. It sounds more difficult than it really is. For instance, if you are buying some skin care products as a gift, get them at a day spa and treat yourself to a 30 minute massage while there. 

It's okay to prioritize your wellness over trying to meet everyone else's holiday expectations. Remember, it's the experiences and memories that matter, not making sure to get the perfect gift for everybody on your list.