2023 ® L O V E A N D B R I D A L - M E E T S O M E O F T H E B E S T Chosen by Readers, Won by Leaders! JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 DANIEL ISLAND | ISLE OF PALMS | SULLIVAN’S ISLAND
The Best Businesses,
Services and Personalities Resolutions That Stick Setting Goals in 2023 Everything But The Groom Stress-free Wedding Planning Mount Pleasant’s Black History Churches and Parks
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8 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com contents JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • VOL. 13, ISSUE 1 Publisher’s Note...................................................................11 Editor’s Note. ......................................................................13 Our Contributors. ...............................................................14 On the Web.........................................................................15 Coleman Blvd. Assoc............................................................16 Social Buzz.........................................................................17 About the Cover. .................................................................18 Calendar of Events...............................................................20 SEWE Festival.......................................................26 Agape Energy Work. .............................................30 Resolutions that Stick............................................31 Mount Pleasant’s First African American Church. .. 51 New Park Honors Black History...........................53 Martine Miller Retires...........................................55 Tax Tricks and Tips. ........................................... 170 CPA Directory. .................................................. 173 Features Love and Bridal Mount Pleasant Meet Cutes.............. 34 Together Forever at Carolina Park..... 39 Everything but the Groom................ 40 Goldbug Events................................ 43 Aleece Sophia Photography............... 45 Southern Bear Catering. ................... 46 Saying Yes to the Right Dress............ 47 51 47 20 Coastal Dwellings Meet the Broker.................................. 160 Voice for Real Estate........................... 161 Top Ten Homes Sold.......................... 162 Stock Market Vs. Real Estate.............. 168 Wines Celebrating the Coast......................... 174 Books Romance your way through Winter...... 175 East Cooper Neighbors Meet your Neighbors.......................... 176 26
9 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com contents JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 • VOL. 13, ISSUE 1 Best Of Mount Pleasant 2023 CATEGORIES Best Of 2023................................. 60 Food & Drink.......................................61 Shopping & Goods...............................73 Personalities & Services........................79 Health &Wellness. ...............................95 Entertainment & Leisure....................105 Pets......................................................109 MORE ON WINNERS AND FINALISTS DIG Hospitality. ................................... 64 Locals. ................................................... 66 Mex 1 .................................................. 68 LoLA’s.................................................... 70 Polly’s Fine Jewelry................................. 78 Amazing Nails. ...................................... 82 Buxton & Collie.................................... 84 Zip’s Kar Kare........................................ 86 Trey Harrell Law Office. ........................ 90 Vanity Salon. ......................................... 92 Metabolic. ........................................... 102 Charleston Allergy and Asthma............ 104 Tapio Dance........................................ 106 Michael’s Barkery................................. 112 Park West Vet. ..................................... 113 Advanced Animal Care........................ 115 Pitt Street Pharmacy. ........................... 119 Holy City Hearing............................... 120 Haven’s Furniture. ............................... 121 Lowcountry Yoga................................. 123 Lowcountry Hurricane Shutters........... 124 Viva Tacos............................................ 125 SC Credit Union. ................................ 126 Mount Pleasant Gardens...................... 127 Savi Cucina + Wine Bar....................... 129 Baby Bloomers..................................... 131 Palmetto Christian Academy................ 133 Comfort Keepers. ................................ 134 Robyn Jones Hall................................. 134 Loy Harn Jewelers................................ 135 Franke at Seaside.................................. 137 Grandscapes......................................... 139 Happy Hearts Therapy......................... 140 Children’s Discovery Center................. 142 Charleston Men’s Clinic....................... 143 Carolina Foot & Ankle........................ 144 AR Workshop...................................... 144 Southern Belles.................................... 145 Lib’s Diner........................................... 146 Rad Rydz............................................. 147 Stephanie Selby.................................... 149 Riviera at Seaside................................. 150 Haven’s Accessories.............................. 151 SouthState Bank. ................................. 153 Ragamuffin’s. ....................................... 154 Annie’s Hot Donuts............................. 155 Joe Hudson Collision........................... 155 Veris CPA............................................ 156 WakeUp Carolina................................ 160 2023 WWW.BESTOFMP.COM
10 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Call us Today! 843-654-4122 Water Heaters, Plumbing, A/C, Heating & Drains @CCMyersHeatingAndAC CCMyersService.com I was very impressed with the thorough A/C inspection and repair. Robbie W took very detailed notes and measurements. He took the time to explain everything even down to checking the amperage draw of the motors and capacitance of the capacitor. Assuming the entire staff is as knowledgeable as Robbie, I will be using C&C Myers exclusively going forward. -Mike R. Steven Ross was our service provider and could not have been more professional, friendly and knowledgeable. He explained exactly what was happening and what he recommended and resolved our problem working with the city Public Works department. We would welcome Steven back anytime. Great employee and excellent representative of C&C Myers! -Amy B. ® ® ® WWW. BESTOFMP.COM ®
11 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com This year, when Mount Pleasant Magazine readers cast their 47,000 votes, our excitement grew. We knew that put us very close to 500,000 votes about local business over the past decade. Supporting local businesses while publishing positive content about the town we call home are our primary missions. Best of Mount Pleasant leads the charge in helping local businesses grow. When the votes come in, everyone here is over the moon. We know in our hearts that through our print and digital pages, social media reach and amazing events, that we are a powerful local platform. Together with our community, businesses are endorsed, and goals are reached. The results of our 2023 Best Of poll start on page 60 with The Best Of Food & Drink. Shopping & Goods appears on page 73, followed by Personality & Services on page 79. Health & Wellness begins on page 95, succeeded by Entertainment & Leisure on page 105. Best Of Mount Pleasant Pets wraps things up on page 106. If you are interested in accessing the Best Of Mount Pleasant from the past 10 years, visit BestOfMP.com. Or to take a trip 30 years back in time, you can explore Charleston’s very first Best Of issue in East Cooper Magazine — the predecessor of Mount Pleasant Magazine. Read the results from the Best of Charleston 1990 at BestofMP.com/BestOfCharleston1990. On this page, you will find a photo of our publishing family taken at a recent Christmas get together. We love serving the community we call home, and you, the readers. Enjoy the Best Of issue, and the best new year! Until next time, Bill Macchio Publisher • Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com publisher’s note Vol. 13, Issue 1 • January/February 2023 PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM MANAGING EDITOR LORNA HOLLIFIELD EDITOR@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM COPY EDITOR COLIN MCCANDLESS ART DIRECTOR DANA COLEMAN PRODUCTION MANAGER BETHANY LONG AD DESIGNERS KIM HALL REBECCA SOTTILE BETHANY LONG TECHNOLOGY GEORGE CONKLIN BRIAN SMITH GENE PHAN SOCIAL MEDIA CHESLEY LANDFORD • ANTHONY MACCHIO KAREN LISZEWSKI WRITERS HEATHER ARTUSHIN • MADISON BROACH L.C. LEACH III • BARBARA SKIDMORE LEAH RHYNE • SHERRY WHITING MARY COY • MAURICE FRAZIER DENISE K. JAMES • SARAH MAKUTA PHOTOGRAPHER MARK STAFF • BETHANY LONG BRAND AMBASSADOR STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM INDEPENDENT MEDIA CONSULTANTS KATIE FINCH KATIE@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM KIM MARTIER KIM@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ANDY BIMONTE ANDY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPING GINGER SOTTILE SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS CHESLEY LANFORD ANTHONY MACCHIO DISTRIBUTION U.S. POST OFFICE • HARRIS TEETER • PUBLIX • CVS Mount Pleasant Magazine is published locally by a team of independent contractors. Mount Pleasant Magazine is published six times per year by Media Services, Inc. 1013 Chuck Dawley Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Copyright © Media Services 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction electronically or in print format without the expressed written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited and a violation of U.S. copyright laws. Inquiries to: Mount Pleasant Magazine P.O. Box 22617, Charleston, SC 29413 843-881-1481 Info@MountPleasantMagazine.com The Mount Pleasant Magazine team. Front row, left to right: Ginger Sotti le, Bi l l Macchio, Dana Coleman, Lorna Hol l ifield. Back row, left to right: Mark Staff, Andy Bimonte, Chesley Lanford, Katie Finch, Wayne Petzold, Kim Mar tier, Stacey McLoughl in, Anthony Macchio, Bethany Long.
12 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Locally owned and serving the Lowcountry since 1992. (843) 410-2680 • CarpetBaggersCarpetOne.com Let us Help you Make your Dream Home a Reality! Call or visit us today for a free consultation!
13 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com editor’s note It’s been almost a year since I first sat in the editor’s chair here at Mount Pleasant Magazine. It has been a whirlwind. Curating and compiling this issue over the holidays were no small feat. I won’t lie; there were times of stress, there were times of frustration and there were times of confusion. Afterall, the Best Of issue is the largest of the year. However, in all the madness that was woven in with Christmas parties, parades, motherhood and social commitments, there was pure joy. I love what we do. I love the team. I love the content. While getting mountains of articles in order, I got to meet some of the best businesses in town. At the photo shoots, I met the faces behind them (the ones I didn’t already know). That’s from where the joy came. The things we do at this magazine are expressions of celebration. By singing the praises of the people in our town, we are writing the ballads of the blood, sweat and tears that made Mount Pleasant what it is. We are celebrating having won the war of achieving the American dream. We celebrate business, people, family, prosperity and life. We inspire the people still fighting the good fight to see that battle to victory. Mount Pleasant is about more than palm trees, sunny days, luxury homes and salty breezes. Those are the spoils of a hard-fought war. Mount Pleasant is about grit. I saw that in this issue more than ever before. I saw not just the fruit, but the process of growing a tree from seeds and dirt. What I should say is, thank you, Mount Pleasant, for making my hard work matter. I do this because of what you did first. Our Best Of section begins on page 60. I encourage you to look at every single winner. Not only will you be introduced to great businesses, you’ll read about new neighbors and inspiring innovators. There’s no better way to scare up some motivation for your resolutions this year. Learn from the example of your community. -Lorna Hollifield Managing Editor SCAN • CLICK SUBSCRIBE YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR MAGAZINE 2023 ® L O V E A N D B R I D A L - M E E T S O M E O F T H E B E S T JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 DANIEL ISLAND | ISLE OF PALMS | SULLIVAN’S ISLAND
14 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com Leah Rhyne is a professional writer with a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Montclair State University. She spent four years as the festival director of the Charleston to Charleston Literary Festival and specializes in event management, marketing and public relations. Heather Artushin is a clinical social worker, parent supporter, writer and homeschooling mama. Originally from Detroit, Heather and family have loved living in the Lowcountry for the past four years. With a background as a child and family therapist, motherhood sparked a passion for empowering the world’s children by inspiring their parents. Artushin is the founder of Southern Parent, where she offers parenting classes and individual support to equip parents to do their job with passion and insight. Join her at SouthernParent.com. Born and raised in Mount Pleasant, Madison Broach has always had a passion for writing and reporting. She is midway through her sophomore year at the university of Florida, where she is studying journalism. She hopes to one day have a career in magazine or television broadcasting. She spent last summer interning at Mount Pleasant Magazine and Charleston Women. From here, her future looks as bright as her writing skills. British-born professional photographer and director/producer Mark Staff moved to Charleston in 2018. His work mainly consists of lifestyle and portrait photography and video. Mark Staff enjoys mountain climbing, riding motorcycles and hanging out with his wife and two dogs. His work has taken him to many interesting places across America and abroad. Check out his website MarkStaffPhoto. com, and give him a follow on Instagram to join the journey. Mary Coy is an expert on Charleston history. Not only has she published several books on the subject, she can also be found giving tours of the Holy City in her free time. She has written for Mount Pleasant Magazine for over a decade. Barbara Skidmore is a Charleston-area blogger, content creator and columnist. She has written for a host of publications, including Condé Nast Traveler. She is a graduate of the University of Arizona. Follow her on Instagram under @blushingalpacas. contributors Interested in contributing to Mount Pleasant Magazine? Email your contact information (name, phone, mailing address) and one sample of work you have created (or a link to your work online) with the subject “Aspiring MPM Contributor” to Editor@MountPleasantMagazine.com.
15 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com atch Mount Pleasant Magazine online at MountPleasantMagazine.com, and flip through the digital magazine at ReadMPM.com. For up-to-date, relevant content for all of Mount Pleasant and East Cooper, follow us on Instagram @MountPleasantMagazine, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/ MountPleasantMagazine. Don’t forget to comment on our posts with your thoughts on the events, businesses or personalities featured. We want to connect with you. Your voice could become featured in our “Social Buzz” section. We have so much to offer the community beyond these pages. We invite all of our readers to enjoy our podcasts, in addition to our online publications. Both MountPleasantPodcast.com and BestOfMPpodcast.com offer amazing insights into our community through the first-person stories of our leaders, business owners and beloved residents. This is a chance to watch, listen and learn from your neighbors. Want to get involved with the content chosen for Mount Pleasant Magazine? Give us your ideas for a feature story. Email Editor@MountPleasantMagazine.com with your ideas, supporting photos and contact information. We’d love to hear from you! C on the web IVVitamin Therapy in a Day Spa Enviroment. Better health begins with HEALTHY CELLS Feed your Cells. Fuel your Life. Same day appts. Walk ins welcome! • Vitamin Drips • IM Shots • Immunity • Aesthetics • Recovery • Concierge Service • NAD Infusions Scan QR code or Call 854-800-2377 for more information! 50% must present coupon*
16 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com B E ACH H OU S E L I V I N G - A L L Y E AR - R OU N D All homes feature 9-foot ceilings and custom designed features including quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliance packages, expansive closet spaces, and wi-fi. In addition to the marsh-front nature trail and live oak park, the property includes a pool with wet bar and private cabanas, outdoor grills and entertainment center, bike parking, a dog park and dog spa, and business centers. Clubhouse featuring 24-hour amenities and lounge spaces with beverage stations offering selfservice cold brew coffee sourced locally from Riptide. Y OU R G E T AWAY , E V E R Y DAY . Picture your new life here. Salty-aired bike rides to the beach. Water and marsh views in any direction. Charming and storied neighborhoods lined with shops and restaurants inviting you to explore. And now—an upscale apartment community that offers unmatched access to all of it and more. You’ve been thinking of wading into the life you’ve always dreamed of. Come on in – the water’s just about perfect. Say hello to Atlantic Beach House. A T L AN T I C B E ACH H OU S E L I V I N G AWA I T S If you’ve ever dreamed of living among the scent of salt air and pristine beaches, surrounded by natural beauty and historic enclaves, then we invite you to come home to Atlantic Beach House. 1 0 0 1 B O O P A L A N E M O U N T P L E A S A N T , S C 2 9 4 6 4 @ A T L A N T I C B E A C H H O U S E A P T S B E A C H H O U S E M T P . C O M 8 3 3 . 6 2 4 . 0 6 4 2
17 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com social buzz Why are so many Americans moving to The South? This is exactly what publisher Bill Macchio discussed with the senior vice president of SouthState Bank Jules Deas III on a recent podcast. The podcast, which aired on VOICE for Real Estate, created quite the stir on Facebook. Here are what our readers think about the exodus from other regions to our beloved Lowcountry. What do you think? Feel free to drop us a line. on Facebook/ MountPleasantMagazine.com to let us know. Also, follow @MountPleasantMagazine on Instagram for more exciting conversations. To see what the industry professional weighed in, visit VOICEforRealEstate.com to check out the podcast that had all of Mount Pleasant and beyond offering their thoughts on the matter. Anthony Pavich credits the fact that “homes are cheaper.” Karen Fogarty commented, “More freedom, and it is easier to grow your own food.” Mike Atkinson says, “Warmer weather!” Joe Lovett thinks it’s the “morals and work ethic.” Katrina Rainwater thinks it’s the “friendlier people,” and “it’s not as expensive.” Sandra Powell thinks it is “people looking for greener grasses…”
18 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com For the Love of Mount Pleasant On Site for the 2023 Best Of Photo Shoot I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words” or “it takes a village.” Both of these popular expressions apply to the journey I recently embarked on, which culminated on Tuesday, Dec. 13, in front of the iconic “Welcome to Mount Pleasant” sign at the Long Point Road exit. The journey began with a lot of questions, concerns and just plain what-ifs. Would town officials or the police department even allow us access to the sign? With the thousands of vehicles speeding past this area every hour of every day, would we be safe? Because Mount Pleasant Magazine had interviewed Chief Mark Arnold on our community podcast, MountPleasantPodcast.com, I knew Donald Calabrese, the public information officer (PIO) would help me coordinate this. Don was easy to work with, and we had built a mutual trust. When I reached out to him, he told me he was no longer in that position, but to call Senior Police Officer WilliamMartin. Officer Martin was very accommodating. I’m sure it’s not every day someone inquires about taking a photo using the famed sign as a backdrop. During one of our numerous communications, he referred me to Sergeant Ashley Croy, Mount Pleasant Police’s new PIO officer. She was a joy to work with, and I felt she understood what Mount Pleasant Magazine was striving to accomplish. Her number one priority was to assist in putting the right people in place for safety. Traffic officers Mathis and Culnon were commissioned to help facilitate the dream. By the end of the shoot, they were like part of our publishing team. We had the greenlight, but still needed to prepare for Left to right on top of sign: JD Cooper of Lowcountry Hurricane Protection and Shutters, Erica Zepp of Southern Bell Living, Brittany Gifford of Locals, Brice West of Veris CPA Left to right in front of sign: Katherine Cox of Katherine Cox & Co, PamWhite of Nellie & Lo, Jeff Filosa of LoLa, Dr. Megan Hardy of Advanced Animal Care,Taylor Socci of Nellie & Lo, Penny Vaigneur of Copper Penny, Dr. Margarita Murphy of Colon Surgeons of Charleston, Brandi Sherbert of Pitt Street Pharmacy, Andrea Leary of Rad Rydz, Charlie Wuff of Palmetto Christian Academy, Susie Molony of Southern Belles, Kim Coleman of Vanity Salon, Jeremy Blackstock of Lowcountry Contractors
19 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com perfection. After visiting the location with photographer Mark Staff, Haven’s Furniture owner Angie Balderson, Haven’s designer Vilmarie Bennett and managing editor Lorna Hollifield, I couldn’t help noticing how untidy the sign looked when viewed up close. I felt awkward asking our mayor to pressure wash the sign, but I texted Will Haynie anyway. I wanted to get the best photo possible. So, I asked, “Could you get town maintenance to clean the sign, please? We are shooting the Best Of 2023 cover and it would be the best reflection of our town.” A couple of days after my text, I ran into Mayor Haynie at the Mount Pleasant Chamber Christmas party. I told him how awkward I felt asking him to get the sign pressure washed. Seamlessly he said, “Bill, your magazine is about Mount Pleasant. Don’t feel awkward asking me to do something that would help our town look better.” The next day Town Administrator Eric DeMoura emailed me to inform me that the sign would be washed, and the landscape would be worked on for the Best Of 2023 cover shoot. I’m sure after viewing the 2023 Best Of photo, knowing what went into capturing this image, the popular expressions first mentioned ring true. It does take a village to make something happen, and a picture is worth a thousand words. Thank you to everyone who helped bring this to fruition. I feel so blessed to publish this magazine about the town that so many people love to call home.
20 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com JANUARY SC Stingrays When: 01/01/2023 - 4/15/23 Check for times. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Enjoy a night of flying pucks and fast skating from a great community member, the SC Stingrays! This team supports too many local charities to list while always providing family entertainment. --------------------------------------------------------------------- College of Charleston Men’s Basketball When: 01/01/2023 - 2/25/23 Check for times. Where: TD Arena (Home games) Support the dominating College of Charleston Cougars, NCAA Division I men’s basketball team. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The Citadel Men’s Basketball When: 01/01/2023 - 2/25/23 Check for times. Where: McAlister Field House Cheer on the Citadel Bulldogs, a team that dates back to the 1900-1901 season. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Awendaw Green When: Every Wednesday at 5 p.m. Where: Awendaw Green A converted old barn is the centerpiece of an outdoor live music space that features food and a bonfire. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Roald Dahl’s Matilda JR. When: 1/7/2023 and 1/8/2023 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre Charleston Academy of Musical Theatre presents “Matilda.” Matilda, a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers lives with cruel parents who find her to be a nuisance. When Matilda enters her first term at school, she captures the attention of a kind teacher. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Painting Feathered Friends When: 1/9/2023 at 10:30 a.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens Take part in a fun workshop, and learn the technique of painting a bird on canvas with artist Roni Navroski. You will have your own work of art to take home. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Fela! The Concert When: 1/12/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium Fela! The Concert radiates joy and will leave you on your feet wanting more. The eclectic sounds and powerful lyrics of Fela Kuti are set against a soaring canvas of projected images and electrifying rhythms of a live Afrobeat band. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Taylor Tomlinson When: 1/13/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: North Charleston PAC Taylor Tomlinson’s Have It All tour is expected to be “undeniably hilarious” per Newsweek. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom Mackell When: 1/14/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Music Farm Charleston-based singer-songwriter Tom Mackell brings with him a warm, easygoing presence everywhere he goes, and that same presence is reflected in his music. He has made a name for himself in the Southeast with his open, honest songwriting that incorporates tasteful bits of pop, rock and Americana. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Schubert Adagio and Rondo and Dvorak Piano Quintet No. 2 When: 1/15/2023 at 3 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre Chamber Music Charleston presents Ovation Concert. Calendar of Events
21 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com calendar of events --------------------------------------------------------------------- Ricefields, Fish and a Woman Naturalist: Two Centuries of Ichthyology on the Waccamaw Neck When: 1/18/2023 at 10:30 a.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens In the early 19th century, Charleston was widely recognized as a center of science and natural history due largely to the efforts of John Bachman and its Charleston Circle of Naturalists. Less well known has been the impact of the Waccamaw Neck on the study of natural history during the past 200 years. Come explore the history, the people and aquatic life of this unique environment. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Cemeteries of the Waccamaw Neck When: 1/23/2023 at 10:30 a.m. Where: Brookgreen Gardens Learn the history of various Waccamaw Neck cemeteries from Brookgreen to Hobcaw. From churchyards to plantations, burial places help us understand various cultures and eras, art and health. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Marauda When: 1/26/2023 at 9 p.m. Where: Trio Club Marauda is bringing the Rage Room Tour to Trio! Australian-based producer Hamish Prasad aka Marauda has risen through the ranks to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with amongst the elite of the bass music world. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Jim Gaffigan When: 1/26/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Jim Gaffigan is a six-time Grammy-nominated comedian, actor, writer, producer, author, Emmy-winning performer and multi-platinum-selling recording artist. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Complexions Contemporary Ballet When: 1/27/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium Complexions Contemporary Ballet is a contemporary ballet company founded in 1994 by Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Charleston Youth Company When: 1/27/2023 and 1/28/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre CYC has produced thousands of rising stars since its inception in 1978. Don‘t miss this year’s winter spectacular. --------------------------------------------------------------------- North Charleston POPS! Dance Party concert When: 1/28/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: North Charleston PAC Have you ever danced in your seat because the music moved you so much you just couldn’t help it? Get ready to feel that joy again at the North Charleston POPS! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Destination Charleston When: 1/29/2023 at noon - 4 p.m. Where: Omar Shrine Auditorium This is your special invitation to the most unique bridal show of the year! Visit the Charleston Bridal Show for an insider’s perspective in planning your Charleston wedding. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Secrets of the Whales When: 1/31/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium National Geographic underwater photographer Brian Skerry shares his journey under the seas. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Steinway Artist John Milbauer When: 1/31/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre CofC’s International Piano Series showcases Steinway Artist John Milbauer.
22 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com
23 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com calendar of events Carolopolis Awards When: 2/2/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre In it’s 69th year, the Preservation Society of Charleston’s Carolopolis Awards recognize outstanding achievements in exterior and interior preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, resilience and new construction. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Cowboy Mouth When: 2/3/2023 at 9 p.m. Where: The Windjammer For over two decades, Cowboy Mouth has dished up its unique style of rock & roll gumbo, mixing a rowdy spirit reflective of the band’s hometown — New Orleans — with the fierce firepower of a group that lives on the road. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CSO Masterworks When: 2/3/2023 and 2/4/2023 at 8 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium Daphnis and Chloe is a choreographic symphony for orchestra and wordless chorus by Maurice Ravel. --------------------------------------------------------------------- PBR: Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour When: 2/3/2023 and 2/4/2023 at 8 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Come for the Collision at the Coliseum! The PBR’s Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour (PWVT) began in 2014 as the sport’s premier expansion series, featuring young, emerging bull-riding talent. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Kevin James When: 2/4/2023 at 8 p.m. Where: North Charleston PAC The Irregardless Tour comes to North Charleston! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Save the Light Half Marathon & 5K Run/Walk When: 2/4/2023 at 8 a.m. Where: Folly Beach Pier This event is a half-marathon and 5K to support the preservation of the Morris Island Lighthouse by Save The Light, a grassroots nonprofit organization that formed in 2000 to save the Morris Island Lighthouse. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Disney’s Winnie the Pooh When: 2/5/2023 at 2 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium Bring the family for the new musical stage adaptation by Jonathan Rockefeller. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Charleston Music Fest When: 2/6/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre The Charleston Music Fest is a year-round presenter of chamber music of the highest possible artistic standard. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Branden & James: From Bach to Bieber When: 2/8/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Pawley’s Island Festival of Music and Art James on his cello, combined with Branden’s emotional and powerful vocals, creates a sound that leaves audiences moved and inspired. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Acoustic Rooster’s Barnyard Boogie: Starring Indigo Blume When: 2/12/2023 at 1 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium Best-selling author Kwame Alexander brings two of his beloved children’s books to the stage. FEBRUARY
24 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com --------------------------------------------------------------------- Diego Figueiredo: Brazilian Jazz Guitarist with special guest vocalist Chiara Izzi When: 2/15/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Pawley’s Island Festival of Music and Art Grammy- nominated guitarist Diego Figueiredo is a virtuoso with an infectious, joyful feeling that will leave you amazed and happy. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Beethoven and Mozart When: 2/19/2023 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre Franciso Fullana performs string quartets with members of CMC. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Alladin When: 2/22/2023, 2/23/2023 and 2/24/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Disney’s hit Broadway musical is an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Halie Loren Quartet: Jazz Singer/Songwriter When: 2/22/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: Pawley’s Island Festival of Music and Art Halie Loren is an international, award-winning jazz singer/ songwriter. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Jeff Dunham When: 2/23/2023 at 7 p.m. Where: North Charleston PAC Still Not Canceled Tour is coming to North Charleston! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Bonnie X Clyde When: 2/24/2023 at 9 p.m. Where: Trio Club Bonnie X Clyde is an American electronic dance duo formed in 2015 by Daniel Litman and Paige Lopynski. The group fuses electropop, synthpop, house and trap music in their sound. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The Tales of Hoffmann When: 2/24/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre Offenbach’s fantastical opera is based on the thrilling short stories from the mind of the poet E.T.A. Hoffmann. calendar of events CHARLESTONMUSEUM.ORG 843-722-2996 360 MEETING STREET
25 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com ---------------------------------------------- Alladin When: 2/25/2023 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Hailed by USA Today as “Pure GenieUs,” Aladdin features all your favorite songs from the film. ---------------------------------------------- The Tales of Hoffmann When: 2/26/2023 at 2 p.m. Where: Sottile Theatre CofC Opera will be sung in French with English supertitles and is presented alongside musicians from partnering Charleston Symphony Orchestra. ---------------------------------------------- Alladin When: 2/26/2023 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Directed and choreographed by Tony Award-winner Casey Nicholaw, this “fabulous” and “extravagant” (The New York Times) new musical boasts an incomparable design team. ---------------------------------------------- The Tales of Hoffmann When: 2/27/2023 at 10 a.m. Where: Sottile Theatre Follow Hoffmann on a surreal journey as he searches for love, meaning and reality. CSO Masterworks 6 Fri: Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto When: 3/3/2023 and 3/4/2023 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Gaillard Auditorium Tchaikovsky’s sixth symphony has earned its place as one of the greatest Romantic-era compositions. The final symphony, written before his death in 1893, is certainly one of the most moving pieces of all time. ---------------------------------------------- Where the Wild Things Run 5k When: 3/5/2023 at 8:30 a.m. Where: Caw Caw Interpretive Center Walkers, joggers and runners: come explore your wild side on the scenic nature trails at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Caw Caw is actively managed for a variety of wildlife and a favored habitat for rare wildlife. There is also the chance you may see a “wild thing” or two! calendar of events MARCH 280 WEST COLEMAN BLVD., MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 843.936.6997 INTERIORMOTIVESMP@GMAIL.COM LaurelAndLawton.com • @laurelandlawton Surprise Someone with a Surcee! (843) 972-8410 Queensborough Shopping Center 1123 Queensborough Blvd., Ste 100
26 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com BY COL I N MCCANDLESS Welcome to SEWE Where celebrating nature is an art People are drawn to the Lowcountry in large part because of the beaches, the salt marshes, the mossdraped oaks, the cypress swamps — ` the stunning natural landscapes that inspire awe and support an array of recreational activities. East of the Cooper, a boating, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding trip through Shem Creek provides an opportunity to see much of it — dolphins frolicking, “Ac ros s the Mar sh” by Hi l ar i e Lamber t .
27 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com pelicans and egrets roosting on the docks or snatching up a fish. An amble through Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail offers great birding. The charter fishing tours and guided nature adventures that ply our tidal creeks and waterways educate both locals and tourists alike about our diverse flora and fauna. Regional ecological treasures such as the ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge (which has been featured in National Geographic), Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and the Francis Marion National Forest, provide unique hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities in picturesque, protected areas. You might say that tourism is in our nature. That nature is the fuel that keeps our economic engine running. It is to be preserved and promoted at once, a tall order for the Lowcountry. SEWE: Conservation is at the heart of everything they do The fine wildlife art, festivities and conservation events showcased at Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) are a microcosm illustrating this vital link between nature and tourism. SEWE represents a celebration of the great outdoors that also brings attention to the need to protect and steward it for future generations and the sake of the animals that inhabit it. “The conservation message is at the heart of everything we do,” said SEWE President John Powell. Part of SEWE’s mission entails creating awareness of the conservation of wildlife and the environment and positively influencing nature and wildlife education, but it’s also to impact the local and state economies through increased tourism. SEWE, which hosted its inaugural event in 1983, has long been considered the de facto kickoff to Charleston’s tourist season. The exhibition, which runs this year from Feb.1719, attracts more than 40,000 people annually, who will patronize Charleston-area restaurants, shops and hotels. Events are spread throughout the peninsula at five different sites including Charleston Place, Marion Square, Gaillard Center, Brittlebank Park and the Charleston Marriot. Powell said they have seen the event grow each year, adding that the economic piece is significant not just to Charleston, but to the region, generating an estimated $50 million in economic impact. Last year, SEWE returned after a two-year pandemic-related hiatus. “There was an overwhelming response to SEWE being back,” stated Powell. Most of what SEWE does speaks directly to protecting and conserving precious habitat, whether land or water. The weekend’s programming includes National Marine Mammal Foundation film screenings and panel discussions, flight demos from Awendaw-based Center for Birds of Prey and SCDNR educational events. SEWE also enthusiastically promotes South Carolina’s state and county parks. On Feb. 17, conservation nonprofit Ducks Unlimited will host one of its biggest fundraisers in the nation, the Oyster Roast & Lowcountry Cookout. Additionally, they will screen a new film at Gaillard Center that they co-produced called “Wings over Water,” showcasing the importance of the Prairie Pothole region of North America as a habitat for birds. “It’s a time of celebration,” asserted Powell. SEWE showcases more than a hundred artists, from new and emerging talents to 40-year veterans. This year’s featured artist is Ryan Kirby of Boone, N.C., and his original piece, “The Departure,” has been selected as SEWE’s 2023 Featured Painting. Some returning artists include 2008 Featured Artist Peggy Watkins and nationally-acclaimed wildlife artist and 2009 Featured Artist Thomas Brooks. “We want something for everyone,” commented Powell, emphasizing that the hope is to have a positive impact on these artists’ careers while sharing in their successes. Local talent on display at SEWE SEWE also displays work from a handful of local artists. “It’s an important part of what we do,” said Powell. “It’s a great platform.” Classical realist painter and Mount Pleasant resident Mark Kelvin Horton is one of those local artists. His work has been featured at SEWE for seven years. Horton feature
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29 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com grew up in rural North Carolina, majoring in graphic design and minoring in drawing at East Carolina University School of Art. He moved to New York City where he began his career in advertising and design, eventually founding a design company. Horton always aspired to be a painter, and during his 18 years living in New York City, he spent most of his free time exploring and studying its renowned art museums and galleries. He painted on the side whenever the opportunity arose. Horton moved to Charleston in 2001 with his wife and two young children after deciding to devote himself full-time to painting, revisiting his Southern roots. One thing about the Lowcountry’s natural landscapes that sparks his imagination is that the setting changes every day depending on elements such as the tide, the weather and the light. Horton lives in I’On, which abuts Hobcaw Creek, a place where he can regularly observe and draw inspiration. “I’m really obsessed with the way the light affects the landscape — and the clouds,” commented Horton. While he doesn’t consider himself a wildlife artist, he does occasionally include birds and cows (a product of his pastoral North Carolina upbringing) in his work. Horton said he is honored to be a part of SEWE, which provides an invaluable opportunity for his paintings to be exposed to many people who might not normally get to see them. He added that for returning artists it’s almost like a reunion, describing it as a “supportive community.” James Island resident and painter Hilarie Lambert has been a part of SEWE for seven years as well. The former graphic designer and illustrator moved here from the Finger Lakes region of New York 22 years ago. Lambert, who describes her style as contemporary impressionist, enjoys using bold and vibrant colors. Lambert said the Lowcountry is a wonderful place to paint and make a living. “This community is so responsive to original work,” she remarked. The Lowcountry landscapes that inspire her pieces change and evolve depending on the time of year. “Every season has its beauty,” noted Lambert, from the bright and vibrant greens of spring to the golden colors of the marshes in the fall. She also finds fascination with the birds that inhabit our area, from the egrets to the ibises. Lambert gets reference material from visiting places such as Mount Pleasant, Folly Beach and Edisto Island. Lambert even bought a camper that she drives throughout the state to experience the full range of beauty in our landscapes and wildlife that help kindle her creative vision. She looks forward to SEWE every year. “I’m so, so grateful. It’s a great, great show,” raved Lambert. “There are artists from all over the world. It’s just a collection of really cool work.” Horton said SEWE’s organizers do an incredible job with presentation in terms of booths and exhibit displays, comparing it to an elegant art fair. “The people who run it — they’ve done so much for Charleston.” feature “Summer Twi l i ght ” by Mar k Ke l v i n Hor ton .
30 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com The mind is a wonderful thing to Save Introducing Agape Mindfulness and Energy Work In a world where instant gratification is the norm, and the key to happiness hangs on the hook next to the ones saved for the new house and car, lies a deeper and more meaningful life — a life that isn’t consumed by finding meaning and pleasure in the next big thing, but a life that finds fulfillment in being present and alive. Romain Bester spent years battling a mindset that many of us fall victim to — that other people and material objects are the main producers of happiness. Bester said he “was never satisfied with the version of reality that was proposed” to him. After traveling the world searching for answers, Bester found Reiki and a new outlook on the world he thought he knew. Instead of looking upon others to bring him the joy and love he wanted, he realized it was inside of himself, entirely, the whole time. Reiki therapy is a form of energy healing, originating from the Japanese root words “rei,” which means soul, and “ki,” meaning life force energy. Together, they translate to mean “spiritually-guided life energy.” Bester spent years studying, practicing and perfecting his method of Reiki to better his own mindset on life and to create a more meaningful and fulfilling version of himself…his true self. He uses the methods he’s learned and practiced to help others search within themselves to find a deeper, positive life force through his own healing and Reiki practice, Agape Mindfulness and Energy Work. There are several methods Bester uses to break old habits and to create a mind at ease, fully present in the moment. Guided meditation is used to help create a deeper state of relaxation and to foster a conscious understanding of the energies held deep within. Reiki is used to release stress, tension and formed blockages of the mind and body accumulated over the years, creating balance physically and mentally. Family constellations are used to dissipate any heavy blockages or toxic links within family or other relationships, helping to bring back harmony and freedom to the consciousness. Another method is using access bars, which taps into 32 unique areas around the head that correlate to different aspects of life. According to Bester, this results in a sense of clarity, peace and invitation to create new choices or paths in life. Bester has now made it his goal to help people feel better and empower them through his Reiki practice. “You can have your new car and your house, but what is missing? That is what I help people find,” explained Bester. “We are always waiting for the perfect time, but that’s not how it works. Time is passing by constantly. It’s about starting, no matter when or how, just doing and being. I’m there to help guide.” Roma i n Bes ter of Agape Mi ndfu l nes s and Energy Wor k . BY CHESLEY LANFORD feature
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