Beaufort, SC, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort, South Carolina, recently hosted a live broadcast from Blackstone’s Café, capturing community spirit and national attention. The event featured Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy, who interviewed local residents and business owners. Highlighting community traditions, the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance by a 101-year-old WWII veteran added an emotional touch. However, the event also saw protests from those voicing concerns about media bias, illustrating the divided opinions within the community. This moment reflected Beaufort’s rich history and commitment to showcasing both its unity and diversity in opinions.
Beaufort Celebrates Community Spirit with Live Broadcast
Beaufort, South Carolina, became a focal point for community spirit and national attention on August 19, as Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy broadcasted live from Blackstone’s Café. This event was part of the show’s “Main Street USA Tour,” aimed at highlighting small-town America.
Blackstone’s Café, which has been an integral part of the Lowcountry community since its establishment in 1991, welcomed hundreds of attendees eager to witness the live show. Despite the café reaching capacity, many supporters waited outside to participate in the event that aired nationally from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. Doocy took the opportunity to interview local business owners and residents, sharing insights into Beaufort’s history and its close-knit community.
The Tradition of the Pledge
A significant highlight of the morning was the café’s long-standing tradition of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance daily at 8 a.m. This practice has been ongoing for over 30 years, inspired by a similar ceremony at Chick & Ruth’s Deli in Maryland. During the pledge, a ship’s bell donated by Dr. Lanny Krauss is rung, further enhancing the ceremony’s significance.
Café owner Jake Higgins expressed his pride in showcasing Beaufort and its people, emphasizing the importance of community representation on such a prominent platform. An emotional moment of the broadcast featured 101-year-old WWII veteran Ray Stocks standing next to Higgins, both reciting the pledge live on air, showcasing the café’s dedication to honoring American values.
Mixed Reactions: Support and Dissent
While many residents celebrated the event, a group of protesters assembled outside the café to voice their concerns about perceived biases in Fox News reporting. The protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the network and its coverage, carrying signs critical of President Donald Trump and his administration. Some claimed that their comments on social media regarding the event faced censorship, which sparked a discussion on the management of online discourse. Higgins clarified that inappropriate comments were hidden to maintain the decorum expected of a business page.
The contrasting scenes of community support inside the café and political dissent outside highlighted the divided sentiment towards Fox News and the current political climate in Beaufort. It encapsulated a moment where an everyday café became a stage for national discussion on issues concerning journalism, community values, and patriotism.
Beaufort: A Snapshot
Beaufort is known for its rich history and vibrant community spirit. The coastal city, filled with charming architecture and a strong sense of local identity, is home to events that reflect both its traditions and contemporary issues. Organizations like Blackstone’s Café play a crucial role in fostering community bonding, making it a noteworthy stop for visitors and locals alike.
FAQ Section
What was the purpose of the live broadcast from Blackstone’s Café?
The live broadcast was part of the “Main Street USA Tour,” aimed at highlighting the spirit of small towns across America.
What community tradition is associated with Blackstone’s Café?
Blackstone’s Café has a tradition of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance every morning at 8 a.m., a practice that has been ongoing for over 30 years.
Were there any protests during the event?
Yes, protesters gathered outside the café to express their dissatisfaction with Fox News, criticizing perceived biased journalism and political issues.
What significant moment occurred during the broadcast?
During the broadcast, café owner Jake Higgins and 101-year-old WWII veteran Ray Stocks recited the Pledge of Allegiance live on air, creating an emotional highlight for the event.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Blackstone’s Café, Beaufort, SC |
| Broadcast Date | August 19 |
| Broadcast Duration | 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. |
| Attendee Count | Hundreds attended, with many waiting outside |
| Community Tradition | Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance at 8 a.m. |
| Protest Presence | Protesters expressed concerns about Fox News coverage |
| Emotional Moment | WWII veteran Ray Stocks reciting the Pledge with owner Jake Higgins |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Fox News: Live Broadcast from Blackstone’s Café
- Post and Courier: Steve Doocy Visits Blackstone’s Café
- Island News: Fox & Friends Co-Host Visits Beaufort
- Island Packet: Community Spirit in Beaufort
- Island Packet: Protests During Fox News Broadcast
- Fox Weather: Hurricane Erin Impacts
- Wikipedia: General Information
- Encyclopedia Britannica: General Knowledge
- Google: General Search
- Google News: Current Events
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
