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📷️ This week’s photo submitted by Jacob Cox! Congrats to Jacob who won a $10 gift card to Liberty Beans Coffee.

Please submit your local photos here for a chance to be featured in next week’s newsletter and a $10 Liberty Beans Coffee gift card.

 📰 Top Local Headlines

📌 Local Spotlight

Shrimpgate in the Lowcountry: Are we really eating local shrimp?

A recent genetic audit, conducted May 19–22 by SEAD Consulting and commissioned by the Southern Shrimp Alliance, tested shrimp from 44 Charleston-area restaurants. Results revealed that only 4 establishments served authentic SC wild‑caught shrimp, while the other 40 were misleading diners—25 of them outright fraudulently claiming to be local. Here is an article on Shrimpgate 2025.

However, the local shrimp scene is not as fishy (see what we did there) as it seems. Several local shrimp businesses came out with a list of local eateries shelling (Oh stop it) out cash for the local real deal.

Action for diners: Ask where your shrimp comes from. Look for “wild‑caught U.S.” labels—or better yet, stick with shrimpers you know and trust.

💡 Gator Fact

Why “merroir” matters—Charleston shrimp’s unique flavor comes from our coastal marsh environment, much like wine terroir. Chefs like Jason London (Chubby Fish) partner directly with shrimpers who wild-catch and stay preservative-free .

🌞 This Week’s Picks

• Carolina Billfish Tournament– June 18-21

• North Charleston Pops In The Park- Tuesday, June 17 features ABDIEL IRIARTE at Riverfront Park 6-8

• Brewery Blast Laser Tag at Holy City Brewery– June 20, 5-9. Click the link for tickets.

• This Week at Credit One Stadium – Wednesday - Avril Lavigne, Fri & Sat - Dave Mathew’s Band

☕️ Liberty Beans Coffee Co brewing up success!

Founders Jim & Diane are keeping our community caffeinated with their bold…never bitter coffee blends and single origins.

This award winning coffee roastery sources beans from around the world. According to Jim, founder and head roaster…”we have several importers which allows us to select the best organic and fair trade beans from around the world.”

Jim spilled the beans (see what we did there ) on the green coffee bean industry. Says Jim…”we only purchase the best arabica beans that allow us to produce incredible tasting coffee without bitterness. Our coffee is known for its low acid content as well”.

Diane also heads up Liberty Beans fundraising programs. “We work with schools, teams, organizations and charities to help them reach and exceed their fundraising goals. For schools and teams, we realized that whatever kids are selling…adults are buying. We work with them to create a custom label for the coffee bags to highlight their organization. It has been tremendously successful!”

To order or find out more about Liberty Beans Coffee, click here.

🍴 Five Local Bites To Try

1. Ellis Creek Fish Camp — A local’s favorite! Casual setting with indoor bar and outside seating overlooking the marsh at Ellis Creek. James Island

2. Wild Olive — Bringing a hint of rustic Italy to John’s Island. They source as much local product as possible .

3. High Thyme — High Thyme offers an eclectic mix of American Fare in a coastal cozy bistro vibe. Sullivan’s Island

4. Sermet’s Coutyard — Sermet’s offers a delicious Mediterranean cuisine with an extensive wine list. The courtyard is a romantic vibe.

5. Little Jack’s Tavern — Old School neighborhood American tavern.

🧑‍🌾 Farmer’s Markets Around Town

Support fresh, locally grown produce at these vibrant Charleston-area farmers markets:

🛒 Why make a trip?

• Fresh & local: Seasonal produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, honey, and more straight from Lowcountry farms.

• Vibe & community: Live music, artisan crafts, and a chance to chat with growers.

• Family-friendly: Bring the whole crew—many markets welcome pets, kids, and strollers.

💡 Insider Tip of the Week…SHHH

Enjoy the beach and waves at IOP, but not the crowds…head north on the island for free parking and a little peace. We like 34th street to 50th.

🌟 Hidden Gem

Iron Rose Bar and Restaurant (Downtown) — In that famous pink hotel…

🌟 Please support our local sponsors! Thank you! We appreciate you!

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Stay Salty my friends…

Your Local Gator Staff