30 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com and thankful to have the opportunity to put this festival on for our community.” Charleston has built a reputation as a vibrant culinary scene and a food destination, and Smith maintained that the festival has “catapulted the brand of Charleston to an international stage.” But COVID-19 hit the service industry especially hard, causing many restaurants to close, and the sector is still in recovery mode. As a nonprofit group, CHSWF assists with festival expenses by paying a perhead stipend for each ticketed guest to all local restaurants serving as host venues. They also underwrite the costs of travel and accommodation for the chef talent appearing at festival events. Additionally, CHSWF increased stipend amounts this year in response to increased costs associated with supply chain issues, noted Smith. Appropriately enough, the theme of this year’s CHSWF festival is “togetherness.” “We’ve experienced a lot of disconnect in our culture over the past year,” reflected Smith, referencing the social distancing, quarantining and isolation of COVID-19. “Any chef will tell you they make food in order for people to experience and connect with it. Food’s meant to be shared with others. It’s a way to break down barriers. I think togetherness is fitting for a year of coming back together and reconnecting.” Southern String Supply Professional Musical Instrument Repairs, Rentals and Sales Violin - Guitar - Brasswind - Woodwind - Ukulele - Bass - Mandolin - America /Asian Folk Instrument 502Wando Park Blvd. inMt. Pleasant 843-276-9239 www.southernstringsupply.com Be sure to check out our coffee shop in West Ashley! Br kes Br kes Coffee and Craft Ice Cream Br kes Celebrating over 20 years servicing the educational and professional music communities of the Lowcountry. For more information on scheduling and ticketing for these events, visit sewe.com and charestonwineandfood.com. feature
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