SUMMER EDITION 2026 THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES ON WWW.MOUNTPLEASANTPODCAST.COM EVENTS ACROSS THE CAROLINA COASTS | POOL DIRECTORY Plunge Into PARADISE Life in the splash lane Peace, Love and Music Woodstock remembered National Honors, Local Pride A Hall of Fame Community
1 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com CHARLESTON’S ULTIMATE SAILING EXPERIENCE 843-338-2930 PALMETTOBREEZE.COM 1 Shrimp Boat Lane Mt Pleasant, SC DAILY PUBLIC CHARTERS SUNSET | HARBOR | DOLPHIN | HISTORIC PRIVATE CHARTERS CORPORATE • TEAM BUILDING | EVENTS • WEDDINGS BACHELORETTE/BACHELOR PRIVATE | SEMI PRIVATE | SHARED SCAN TO BOOK, TODAY! SUNDAY BRUNCH SUNSET SAIL
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5 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com 600 Long Point Rd, Mt. Pleasant, SC Belle Hall Shopping Center I-5126 at Long Point Road Exit Mon-Sat 9AM - 6PM, Sun 12PM - 5PM 843.800.4015 Goose Creek 217 Goose Creek Blvd. 3 Miles North of Northwoods Mall Rivers Ave. Turns into Goose Creek Blvd. 843.553.4663 Coastal Carolina’s Leading Furniture and Design Center for Over 26 Years. Labor Day Sale Furniture & Mattress Sale Save 30 - 60% Storewide We Will Pay Your Sales Tax + 0% Interest Up To 5 Years Free 5 Night Cruise or Free 2 Nights In Las Vegas or Orlando With Airfare* With Qualifying Purchase Custom Orders Produced in 30 Days SALE STARTS JULY 30.
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7 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com contents SUMMER EDITION • VOL. 16, ISSUE 4 Publisher’s Note.............................................................11 Mount Pleasant: All-American City................................13 About the Cover............................................................15 Our Contributors..........................................................16 Social Buzz...................................................................17 On the Web...................................................................19 Calendar of Events.........................................................20 Live Music Schedule......................................................22 24 28 20 Charleston Jazz Academy........................................24 Winyah Making Waves...........................................25 Peace, Music and Indelible Memories.....................26 Christy Kindard: Focused Persistence......................28 Salt & Shell............................................................29 Arts and Entertainment.............. Mayor's Message....................................... 31 Pool Directory.......................................... 33 Bringing Resort-Style Living Home........... 35 Picturesque Pools & Landscapes: How to Make a Splash at Home..................37 Local Graduates Ready to Change the World....39 Staying Safe in the Sun............................. 43 The Tapio Timeline................................... 46 Cruising the Local Way: Mount Pleasant Jeep..... 48 Skip the Walk and Rent: Rad Rydz............ 49 A Walk Worth Remembering: Palmetto Christian Academy..................... 51 The Best Seat in Charleston: Palmetto Breeze....52 Kenny Mile Trail...................................... 53 Thrill of the Hunt: Uptown Cheapskate.... 55 Cleaning Up Charleston: Tripp’s Fine Cleaners...57 Rebecca Imholz’s Impact on Mount Pleasant..58 Our Town.................................... 35 60 39
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9 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com contents SUMMER EDITION • VOL. 16, ISSUE 4 East Cooper Neighbors...................................... 96 Day in the Life of a Lifeguard...................................60 Isle of Palms Beach Clean-up Crew...........................63 Fun Under the Sun: Wild Dunes..............................65 IOP Teen Repurposes Beach Trash............................67 The Battle of Sullivan’s Island...................................68 Islands......................................... Panthers Draft OCA Alum into the NFL........................77 Sports.......................................... 67 77 80 82 Top 10 Homes Sullivan’s Island .........................87 South Mount Pleasant................88 North Mount Pleasant................89 Snee Farm. ................................. 90 McClellenville............................91 Dwellings......................... Reggie's Report...............................92 Paws Over the Rainbow Bridge.......93 Rescue of the Month.......................94 Dogs in Distress.............................95 Pets. .............................. A New Home for Women’s Care...............................70 Navigating a Crisis with Senior Resource Specialists...73 Rediscover Balance and Restore Hope.......................75 Health and Beauty....................... Pelican’s SnoBalls Serving Joy & Sweet Memories.....79 Recipes..................................................................... 80 Food & Beverage .......................... Festivities on the Coast.......................................82 Redeveloping the Port of Georgetown.................84 National Sculpture Awards..................................86 On the Coast..................................
10 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com RESULTS DRIVEN. CLIENT FOCUSED. LOCAL EXPERTISE. CHARLESTON’S GO-TO real esate team for results you can trust. MP@katherinecoxhomes.com REAL RELATIONSHIPS. STRATEGIC ADVICE. EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS. KNOWN FOR FINDING HOMES BEFORE THEY HIT THE MARKET OFF-MARKET OPPORTUNITIES. PRIVATE INVENTORY ACCESS. STRATEGIC BUYING ADVANTAGE. KatherineCoxHomes.com @katherinecox.co @katherinecoxco ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY RIVERDOGS BASEBALL GAME PARTY AT THE POINT SHARKS TOOTH EXCURSION WITH COASTAL EXPEDITIONS DOLPHIN ECO TOUR A SUNSET SAIL IN CHARLESTON HARBOR WITH SCHOONER PRIDE VISIT THE SOUTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM GARDEN TOUR AT MIDDLETON PLACE DANIEL ISLAND FERRY RIDE A CHARLESTON SUMMER
11 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Everyone who lives in Mount Pleasant should feel proud and thankful. There are countless reasons to feel this way, but as with most places we live and work, it's the people who establish the lifestyle and atmosphere of a town. When a community develops its own personality and residents can feel the heartbeat associated with that personality, the town flourishes. It's always about the people. When residents believe their town is important enough to become involved in civic life, both the community and its citizens benefit. I believe the people who live in Mount Pleasant love their town immensely and are proud to call Mount Pleasant home. They can feel the heartbeat of their community, they care and they enjoy telling others where they live. That pride is reflected throughout our town. You see it in our schools, where involved parents help create an environment where students are more engaged in both academics and extracurricular activities. It's reflected in our strong SAT scores and in the everyday appearance of our community. Take a drive down Coleman Boulevard, Johnnie Dodds Boulevard or Park West Boulevard, and you'll notice the extra touches that remind us that the people who live here genuinely care about Mount Pleasant. As they say, it all starts at the top. You've heard that before, and in many ways it's true. The heartbeat of every community is its people, but creating more opportunities for civic involvement often begins with leadership. Mount Pleasant residents naturally enjoy getting involved, which certainly helps, but someone must provide the roadmap. The National Civic League has furnished that roadmap. Their model for civic engagement has been embraced by our town leadership and communications department, helping guide Mount Pleasant's commitment to including residents in shaping their community. That commitment has contributed to Mount Pleasant earning three All-America City Awards – in 2010, 2018 and 2023. Most recently, our town was inducted into the National Civic League's Hall of Fame in recognition of those achievements. Only 22 communities have earned the distinction of winning three All-America City Awards, and only one other three-time winner has been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Recognition like this may begin in Town Hall, but it ends with boots on the ground worn by engaged residents who are proud to call Mount Pleasant home. To learn more about Mount Pleasant's Hall of Fame induction, see the story on Page 13. And if you're in the mood for a little more hometown pride, I encourage you to listen to Assistant Town Administrator Christiane Farrell's acceptance speech as Mount Pleasant was inducted into the National Civic League Hall of Fame. Thank you for reading Mount Pleasant Magazine. And if you're one of the many residents who calls Mount Pleasant home, thank you for helping make this community one of the best through your civic involvement. Positively yours, Bill Macchio Publisher • Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com from the publisher VOL. 16, ISSUE 4 • Summer Edition 2026 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER JAZZY JORDAN ASSISTANT@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ART DIRECTOR DANA COLEMAN COPY EDITOR COLIN MCCANDLESS LAURA FOGARTY PRODUCTION MANAGER BETHANY LONG BRAND AMBASSADOR STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER ELLEN KERR ELLEN@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM DIGITAL MANAGER ALLYAH HARRAR ALLYAH@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM DIGITAL/WEB EDITOR GEORGE CONKLIN AD DESIGNERS BETHANY LONG KIM HALL WRITERS ELLA DUANE • ALLYAH HARRAR • BELLA HARRAR WILL HAYNIE • ELLEN KERR • CARI LAWSON COLIN MCCANDLESS • SARAH ROSE BROOKE WATSON PHOTOGRAPHER MARK STAFF INDEPENDENT MEDIA CONSULTANTS ELLEN KERR ELLEN@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM MARNIE BONN MARNIE @MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM BRAND ASSISTANTS CHLOE HILFIGER REAGAN BRAWLEY ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPING GINGER SOTTILE ALISON REED BOSS DOG REGGIE DISTRIBUTION/DIRECT MAIL U.S. POST OFFICE • HARRIS TEETER • CVS Mount Pleasant Magazine is published locally by a team of independent contractors. Mount Pleasant Magazine is published locally six times per year by Media Services, Inc. 1013 Chuck Dawley Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Copyright © Media Services 2026. 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 Proud to Call It Home Engaged citizens create award-winning town
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13 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com In celebration of the ongoing work of past National Civic League’s All-America Cities, an honor that Mount Pleasant earned in 2010, 2018 and 2023, the organization introduced its All-America City Hall of Fame Award in 2019. On June 27, Mount Pleasant became just its ninth inductee in recognition of the town’s inclusive community-engaging Public Input Matters program. Submissions were evaluated based on a Civic Index, an infrastructure measurement tool that requires applicants to demonstrate a shared vision, civic engagement, inclusiveness and equity, collaboration, innovation and impact. At a ceremony in Denver, Colorado, Assistant Town Administrator Christiane Farrell accepted the award on behalf of Mount Pleasant, along with her colleagues, Planning Director Michelle Reed and Planning Division Chief Liz Boyles. In her speech, Farrell explained that the Public Input Matters initiative originated as a way to meaningfully engage with residents, soliciting their feedback about how to overcome the challenges that inevitably arise in a fast-growing, rapidly-changing community. During the seven-month program, she said, the Town of Mount Pleasant held seven in-person district meetings, each tailored to the unique character and priorities of the town’s various sections. To optimize attendance, the gatherings were held after work hours in accessible locations such as the library, Mount Pleasant Waterworks and other town facilities. “Rather than relying on traditional town hall meetings where staff speak to citizens from podiums, use AI or take surveys, our cross-departmental teams created an interactive experience that encouraged conversations about important concerns,” Farrell said. “Through district-based discussions and other avenues, residents helped shape the priorities that directly inform the town’s future planning efforts.” As a result of the community’s input, a collective voice formed across all seven districts, expressing concern over issues such as transportation safety. To overcome this challenge, the town created a Safe Streets & Roads for All program that will expand Mount Pleasant Way with a town-wide multimodal path. In 2023, the town secured a A Hall of Fame Community National recognition for exceptional civic leadership BY SARAH ROSE all american city
14 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com federal grant for $15,790,000 to fund the project’s corridor improvements, intersection upgrades and non-motorized enhancements. Upon learning that another near-universal priority for residents was preserving tree canopy, the town launched a Tree Task Force and the Take Root program, which distributes free trees at community events. Building on these and other successes, the town launched Planning Pop-Ups as informal, flexible meetups at convenient venues where residents already gather, such as the Senior Center and the local farmers market, ensuring that community-driven dialogue remains an ongoing part of life in Mount Pleasant. As the legacy of Public Input Matters continues to grow in Mount Pleasant, the town’s All- America City Hall of Fame Award is significant on several levels. First, it celebrates the community for implementing public engagement initiatives that inform priorities, guide planning efforts, strengthen decision making and help shape lasting investments that continue improving quality of life. Additionally, that the honors were given on the eve of the country’s 250th anniversary, as well as Carolina Day, was not lost on Farrell, a native of the Palmetto State. In her acceptance speech, she shared with the audience why this timing is so meaningful for the Town of Mount Pleasant: On June 28, 1776, a small group of patriots held off British soldiers in an attack at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, marking one of the first major victories in the Revolutionary War. “And here we are 250 years later celebrating that civility, democracy and Public Input Matters because of people who fought for a government that is by the people, for the people and of the people,” she said. “We no longer defend these principles from forts built of palmetto trees, but instead we strengthen them by creating and protecting the ability to come together as a community to build trust and guide change where Public Input Matters.” Farrell thanked the National Civic League for this honor and extended special recognition to the residents of Mount Pleasant, Mayor Will Haynie and town council and the Town of Mount Pleasant staff for their commitment in making this initiative a success. all american city For more information about the award and past winners, visit nationalcivicleague.org/america-city-award/hall-offame/. Information about current and upcoming Town of Mount Pleasant projects can be found at tompsc.com. SUMMER EDITION 2026 THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES ON WWW.MOUNTPLEASANTPODCAST.COM EVENTS ACROSS THE CAROLINA COASTS | POOL DIRECTORY Plunge Into PARADISE Life in the splash lane Elevate your Outdoor Space Pools, Patios and More National Honors, Local Pride A Hall of Fame Community SUMMER EDITION 2026 THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES ON WWW.MOUNTPLEASANTPODCAST.COM EVENTS ACROSS THE CAROLINA COASTS | POOL DIRECTORY Plunge Into PARADISE Life in the splash lane Elevate your Outdoor Space Pools, Patios and More National Honors, Local Pride A Hall of Fame Community Your Community, Your Magazine SCAN • CLICK • SUBSCRIBE
15 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com about the cover The most memorable homes are defined not by a single feature, but by how every space works together. At this Isle of Palms home pictured on the July/August issue’s cover, Blue Haven Pools designed more than a pool. They created a natural extension of the home, supporting everything from quiet mornings outdoors to afternoons with family and evenings spent entertaining. Built in collaboration with King & Society, the pool was thoughtfully integrated alongside the home's architecture to create a cohesive outdoor living experience from day one. Every element was intentionally selected to balance form and function, resulting in a space that feels effortless, inviting and timeless. The geometric pool, with a maximum depth of 6 feet, is anchored by a dramatic vanishing edge that enhances the home's coastal setting, while a spacious tanning ledge provides versatility for relaxation and recreation. During the design process, the homeowners' vision evolved, transforming an originally planned swim-up bar into a sunken spa that serves as a gathering place for conversation and connection. Premium finishes further elevate the experience. Travertine decking offers elegance and comfort underfoot, while enhanced lighting extends enjoyment into the evening, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a private resort. The adjoining cabana completes the experience, seamlessly connecting dining, entertaining and lounging so the outdoor spaces function as naturally as the home's interior. The result is a thoughtfully crafted retreat where architecture, landscape and lifestyle come together effortlessly. Every detail supports outdoor living that feels as functional as it is beautiful. About the Cover SUMMER EDITION 2026 THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES ON WWW.MOUNTPLEASANTPODCAST.COM EVENTS ACROSS THE CAROLINA COASTS | POOL DIRECTORY Plunge Into PARADISE Life in the splash lane Elevate your Outdoor Space Pools, Patios and More The Sounds of Summer Woodstock to Windjammer COLEMAN BOULEVARD IS HOME TO BUSINESSES VOTED BEST OF 2026 BY MOUNT PLEASANT RESIDENTS AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE BABY BLOOMERS BOTTLES COLEMAN COLLECTION COLEMAN PUBLIC HOUSE ELDER’S ACE HARDWARE HADDRELL’S POINT TACKLE NELLIE & LO PAGE’S OKRA GRILL RAGAMUFFIN CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE RED DRUM SENIOR RESOURCES SPECIALIST SOUTHERN BELLES THE VILLAGE BOOKSELLER VICIOUS BISCUIT WAKEUP CAROLINA To learn more about Coleman Boulevard's history and businesses, visit www.ColemanBoulevard.com
16 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com contributors Colin McCandless is a Charlestonbased freelance writer and copy editor who enjoys writing about nature and wildlife, travel, history and outdoor recreation. He has more than 15 years of writing experience working for magazines and newspapers and developing blog and website content. Cari Lawson is a school counselor by day and writer by night. Writing provides an outlet to connect further to the community. She loves to spend time with her husband, toddler and puppy at Disney World! Brooke Watson is a College of Charleston student born and raised in Mount Pleasant, where she studies both creative writing and classics. When not writing or studying, she does her best to collect an assortment of hobbies like watchmaking or resin crafting to fuel that spark of creativity. Sarah Rose brings a local and global perspective to her freelance writing, editing and independent research. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism, a decades-long career in interior design and has traveled and lived all over the world. Bella Harrar is a creativity-driven content publisher. She loves piggybacking ideas and thinking outside the box. When she isn’t out shooting or behind her computer editing, she is watching any sports game on. She is a die-hard Phillies fan and will talk about them to anyone willing to listen. She is a music and movie connoisseur and often tries to sneak in references to all her favorites. Allyah Harrar is an SEO specialist and certified data nerd. Raised in the Outer Banks, she moved to Charleston in early 2024. She got her bachelor's degree in math and statistics from Ursinus College and has been trying to convince her dog Russ to become her data analyst sidekick. FREE Tire Repair FREE Testing of Battery, Alternator & Starter Reg. Price $37.50 Ben Sawyer Blvd. Harris Teeter Automotive Excellence Mt. Pleasant Animal Hospital Regions Bank Wendy’s Chuck DawleyBlvd. Sunoco Rifle Range Rd. TWO LOCATIONS! With this MPM Coupon. This coupon is not valid with any other coupon offers. Exp. 08/31/26. $10off Any Service $100 or More FREE Tire Rotation & Brake Inspection With Purchase of Any Other Service $500 OVER COST (Per Tire) Mounting & Tire Aalance Fees Apply Any Brand Tire Coolant Extra Coolant Flush $5775
17 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com social buzz 843-564-7777 anchorheatingandair.com Residential HVAC Maintenance Service installation #stilllocal #stilllocal Locally owned, family operated Locally owned, family operated There’s Comfort in Being Anchored
18 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com A go-to favorite for sunny beach days and poolside fun! 642 Coleman Boulevard Mount Pleasant,SC 843.856.9277 | BabyBloomersHome.com 2026 ®
19 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com on the web Anja Stief | 843-971-6701 office www.dishanddesign.com Voted By People Who Appreciate Great Service & Food 2026 ® Dish & Design has proudly been named among the best caterers year after year.
20 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com ONGOING MOUNT PLEASANT FARMERS MARKET When: Tuesdays April-September from 3:30-7 p.m. Where: 645 Coleman Blvd. Features vendors selling local farm-fresh produce, meats, sauces, baked goods and other specialty foods in a festival atmosphere. CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET When: Saturdays April through November from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Marion Square Weekly farmers market in Marion Square with produce, prepared foods and other goods from local vendors, as well as arts and crafts and live performances. ISLE OF PALMS FARMERS MARKET When: Every third Thursday June-October from 4-7 p.m. Where: Isle of Palms Recreation Department The market will feature fresh produce, food vendors, live music and more! JULY REGGAE NIGHTS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES When: 7/17 from 7:30-11 p.m. Where: James Island County Park Reggae Nights features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude in a beautiful outdoor setting. Bring your chairs or blanket. It’s Irie. DANCING ON THE COOPER When: 7/24 from 7-10 p.m. Where: Mount Pleasant Pier Featured musical act Tommy & the Chucktown Players blend an eclectic fusion of soul, rock and funk that’s sure to get you moving. NATURE EXPLORERS DAY When: 7/25 Where: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Explore the incredible plants and animals that make the Lowcountry thrive, from busy pollinators to ancient reptiles. Through hands-on STEM activities and interactive nature stations, kids will discover how the natural world works together to keep our ecosystems healthy. SWEETGRASS FESTIVAL When: 7/25 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Memorial Waterfront Park Founded in 2004, the Sweetgrass Festival is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that honors the rich heritage of the Gullah Geechee people and the centuries-old art of sweetgrass basket weaving, an art form born in Mount Pleasant and still seen today. IOP BEACH RUN When: 7/26 at 8 a.m. Where: Front Beach, The Windjammer Runners and walkers can take advantage of this opportunity to experience a 5K/10K held entirely on the beach at Isle of Palms. 5K and 10K runs start at 8 a.m. and Youth Fun Runs begin at 8:30 a.m. Calendar of Events
21 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com AUGUST FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK When: 8/7 from 5-8 p.m. Where: Various art galleries throughout downtown Charleston Start wherever you’d like and stroll through downtown Charleston enjoying the charms of the city alongside incredible artwork. Maps can be found at participating galleries as well as charlestongalleryassociation.com/artwalk. 2ND SUNDAY ON KING STREET When: 8/9 from noon-5 p.m. Where: King Street, downtown Charleston Every month on the second Sunday, the City of Charleston shuts down King Street from Queen to Calhoun, roughly half a mile, to through traffic and without parked cars. Stores roll out past the sidewalk to invite shoppers in; carefully curated artists show their work on the street; and unique food vendors tempt guests with their fare. DOG DAY AFTERNOON When: 8/15; Two sessions, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. Where: Splash Island Waterpark, Palmetto Islands County Park Celebrate the dog days of summer with your four-legged best friend at the waterpark after the regular season ends. Dogs will have exclusive access to the kiddie pool and leisure pool for an afternoon of splashing and play. SOUTHEAST CRAB FEAST When: 8/22; Two ticketed sessions, 1 or 4 p.m. Where: Wannamaker County Park This family-friendly gathering highlights Lowcountry seafood traditions with all-you-can-eat blue crabs, fish and chips, live music and outdoor cooking demonstrations throughout the park. THE WIZARD OF OZ When: 8/26-9/27 Where: Dock Street Theater Filled with memorable songs like “Over the Rainbow,” iconic characters and timeless themes of friendship and bravery, this beloved musical is a heartwarming adventure for audiences of all ages. SEASHORE EXPLORATION When: 8/28 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Where: Isle of Palms County Park Summer is a great time to explore the beach, and a trained naturalist will help familiarize you with several species. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. PINWHEEL GALA When: 8/29 from 6-11 p.m. Where: Lowcountry Conference Center, Summerville Presented by Kay Phillips Child Advocacy Center, the Pinwheel Gala helps raise approximately 10% of the CAC’s annual budget to provide services for abused and neglected children. The evening features dinner, awards, live entertainment, an open bar and a charity silent auction. calendar of events
22 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Live Music JULY- ---------------- STEEL PULSE WITH THE ORIGINAL WAILERS When: 7/25 at 7:30 p.m. Where: The Refinery The legendary roots reggae band plays Charleston as part of their “Reggae Against Racism” Tour. -------------------------------------------------------------- THE BLACK KEYS WITH GUEST EDDIE 9V When: 7/30 at 7 p.m. Where: Firefly Distillery Join us for a can’t-miss show featuring one of the most influential rock bands of the last two decades. -------------------------------------------------------------- BARRY MANILOW When: 7/30 at 7 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum Fans can look forward to an unforgettable evening as Manilow performs his greatest hits. -------------------------------------------------------------- O.A.R. When: 7/31 at 6 p.m. Where: Firefly Distillery Celebrate 30 years of iconic hits spanning their incredible career, with special guests Gavin DeGraw and Lisa Loeb joining the lineup. AUGUST- ------------ THE WALLFLOWERS When: 8/6 at 6 p.m. Where: The Windjammer The Wallflowers are an American rock project of American singer-songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Jakob Dylan, son of Bob Dylan. -------------------------------------------------------------- TOADIES WITH LOCAL H AND OLIVE VOX When: 8/6 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Toadies are an American alt-rock band formed in 1989 in Fort Worth, Texas, best known for their hit song "Possum Kingdom." -------------------------------------------------------------- TIM MCGRAW When: 8/8 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium Tim McGraw is an American singer, actor and songwriter who emerged in the 1990s country music scene. -------------------------------------------------------------- MARIACHAZO When: 8/8 at 8 p.m. Where: North Charleston Performing Arts Center This historic show brings together more than a century of tradition, passion and pride in one night of music, culture and emotion. -------------------------------------------------------------- PORTUGAL. THE MAN When: 8/11 at 7:30 p.m. Where: The Refinery Portugal. The Man is a Grammy-winning alt-rock favorite based in Portland, Oregon. -------------------------------------------------------------- NORTH STATE GRASS When: 8/15 at 6 p.m. Where: Pour House Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, North State Grass is a progressive bluegrass quartet that will move your feet, touch your heart and spin your head. -------------------------------------------------------------- MATISYAHU When: 8/20 at 6 p.m. Where: The Windjammer The Grammy-nominated Brooklyn-based singer, rapper, beatboxer and musician blends reggae, hip hop and rock with Judaism-inspired lyrics. -------------------------------------------------------------- HAPPY LANDING WITH THE BAND SOLSTICE When: 8/21 at 9 p.m. Where: Pour House
23 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Happy Landing pioneers a new wave of folk music, captivating audiences internationally with their energetic live shows and fresh sound, blended from the roots of Southern rock, punk and folk. -------------------------------------------------------------- GOO GOO DOLLS WITH GUEST NEON TREES When: 8/26 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium Goo Goo Dolls is an American alternative rock band based out of Buffalo, New York, known for hit songs such as “Name” and “Iris.” -------------------------------------------------------------- STEEP CANYON RANGERS When: 8/27 at 6 p.m. Where: The Windjammer Formed in North Carolina and shaped equally by the Appalachian Mountains and the Piedmont, bluegrass outfit Steep Canyon Rangers have long occupied a singular space in American roots music. -------------------------------------------------------------- GIN BLOSSOMS When: 8/31 at 7 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Formed in Tempe, Arizona, in 1987, Gin Blossoms helped define alternative radio in the early ‘90s with their breakout major-label debut “New Miserable Experience.” ------------------------------------------------------------------ ZAC BROWN BAND WITH SPECIAL GUEST BROTHERS OSBORNE When: 9/17 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium American singer, songwriter, musician, producer and label head Zac Brown brings his Grammy Award-winning country band to Charleston as part of the “Love & Fear”Tour. ------------------------------------------------------------- PIANO LEGENDS: THE CHARLESTON JAZZ ORCHESTRA When: 9/19 from 5-6:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Piano Legends celebrates jazz's greatest pianists, from ragtime to modern fusion. The Charleston Jazz Orchestra honors icons including Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Thelonious Monk, and Bill Evans, whose artistry transformed the sound and evolution of jazz. ------------------------------------------------------------------ JAMES TAYLOR WITH HIS ALL-STAR BAND When: 9/20 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium Iconic American singer-songwriter and guitarist James Taylor has been making music since the 1960s. A six-time Grammy Award winner, Taylor was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. live music 2027 Best Of Mount Pleasant VOTING OPENS AUG 15TH VoteBestOfMP.com
24 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Whether picking up an instrument for the first time or looking to grow as a musician, the Charleston Jazz Academy offers a welcoming and inspiring place to learn, create and connect through music. As the educational arm of Charleston Jazz, the Academy supports the organization’s mission to cultivate jazz through performance, education and outreach. Recognized as one of the region’s premier music schools – and the only school in Charleston dedicated specifically to jazz education – the Academy provides exceptional instruction for students of all ages and experience levels. Offerings include private lessons, jazz combo classes, camps, scholarships, masterclasses, guest artist residencies and community programs. At the heart of the Academy is the belief that music builds confidence, creativity, discipline and connection. Students learn in a collaborative and supportive environment where they develop technical skills while also exploring improvisation, teamwork and self-expression – essential elements of jazz. Among the Academy’s most popular programs are Jazz Combo classes. Designed for students in grades seven–12 who can read music, Jazz Combo offers an authentic small-ensemble experience, typically featuring piano, bass, guitar, drums and horn players. Students meet weekly for 90-minute sessions to study jazz repertoire, develop ensemble skills, practice improvisation and build confidence through performance opportunities. Adult Jazz Combo classes are also available. Students also benefit from opportunities to learn from nationally recognized guest artists. This fall, acclaimed New York-based trumpeter Bruce Harris will spend a week in residence at the Charleston Jazz Academy, working directly with combo students and sharing his expertise through performances and educational activities. For students seeking individualized instruction, the Academy offers private lessons tailored to each musician’s goals, interests and skill level. Lessons are available for all ages and help students build strong fundamentals, refine technique, prepare for auditions or performances and cultivate artistic expression. Accessibility is central to the Academy’s mission. Through scholarships awarded based on financial need and/or musical merit, the Academy ensures that talented and motivated students can access high-quality music education regardless of financial circumstances. Families may indicate interest in scholarship support during the enrollment process. Beyond formal instruction, the Academy strengthens Charleston’s musical community through its free monthly Charleston Jazz Jam Session. Open to musicians of all ages and experience levels, the jam provides an inclusive space for students, hobbyists and professionals to perform, collaborate and celebrate jazz. Each session features a professional rhythm section, a published signup list and “Community Tunes” to help musicians prepare in advance. Music lovers are also welcome to attend and enjoy the performances. Jam Sessions take place on the last Sunday of every month at 5 p.m. The Charleston Jazz Academy offers countless ways to experience the joy of making music. More than a music school, it is a vibrant community where students find their voices and discover the transformative power of jazz. arts & entertainment Charleston azz Academy Where music, community and creativity come together
25 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Winyah Bay might ring a familiar tune for some: rivers rushing, vibrant sunsets dipping below the ocean view, teenagers laughing and sea breezes rustling through mossy live oak and cabbage palmetto trees. A new sound has emerged in recent years: Winyah the band, a Lowcountry quintet striving to become something bigger than themselves. Thomas Rowland, Luke Gordon, Stephen (Stevo) Russell, Robert Buffington Jr. (Rob) and Jacob Riley (Jake) embarked on their journey as an indie rock band with the goal of blending their talents with the nostalgia of home, Pawleys Island. “We hope in some of our music it reflects the feelings of where we come from; calm and beautiful, but also chaotic and forever changing,” said lead guitarist Gordon. The band draws on their experiences growing up in the Southeast as inspiration for their unique coastal rock sound. The band’s name, Winyah, is a tribute to their roots. “We all have respect for where we come from and deciding to name the band Winyah felt like we could bring home with us everywhere we go,” explained Gordon. Mount Pleasant and Charleston have been a close second as far as home goes. Lead singer Rowland and Scottie Frier from the iconic Windjammer have a long history that significantly impacted the future of Winyah. In Rowland’s middle school days, he purchased the deal of a lifetime – a guitar, four free lessons and a lifelong friendship with Frier. In 2020, Frier recalled a drive when a random cover of Steve Lacy’s “Dark Red” came on his Spotify, sung by none other than Rowland himself. This moment rekindled Rowland and Frier’s connection and soon Frier became the person Rowland reached out to for business advice regarding Winyah. “Then he [Rowland] hits me up saying, ‘Hey, is there any way to get my band to play out there?’” recounted Frier. With the help of Frier, Winyah began playing late nights at The Windjammer, and at some point, Frier said, “We started noticing, those kids are selling tickets. Like it’s not just people walking up to listen to the band, like there was a line out the door on more than one show.” Frier connected Winyah to producer Matt Zutell at Coast Records in Charleston, where the group continues to record and produce music. Gordon commented, “The music scene in Charleston has been very influential and motivating.” In the past two years, Winyah has grown from an idea into a constantly evolving and beloved band with nearly 150,000 followers on Instagram and more than 715,000 monthly listeners on Spotify. Frier recalled his realization that Winyah was gaining serious traction and attention while performing at The Windjammer, stating, “Okay, these kids are doing this.” Fast forward to 2026, Winyah has traveled the East Coast, selling out shows and making their way home to perform as an opening act at Credit One Stadium, something that once seemed unimaginable. Looking back, Gordon expressed awe at the times he would pass Credit One on the way to the Charleston International Airport. “I never would’ve quite guessed I’d be playing music with some of my best friends in there.” BY ELLA DUANE Winyah Making Waves Emerging indie band grew following at Windjammer arts & entertainment
26 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com BY ELLA DUANE Peace, Music and Indelible Memories Resident featured on Woodstock album cover recalls iconic festival Mount Pleasant resident Fred Miles has a story for the ages. In 1969, Miles and his buddy Jim hit the road in Jim’s father’s car, heading straight for the Woodstock music festival early on Aug. 15. However, driving was not necessarily how Miles got to Woodstock. “We just got to the point everything was backed up. The roads were clogged and nobody could move either way,” recalled Miles. Cars were pulling off to the side of the road and people were walking from the highway, so that’s exactly what Miles and his friend did. “We left his father’s car there.” Miles, now 81, still remembers how the fences surrounding the festival were completely knocked down. Woodstock expected 40,000-50,000 attendees, but attendance grew from 50,000 to 500,000. Vendors were overwhelmed, and resources such as food and restrooms were scarce; nonetheless, the music continued from Aug. 15 into the early morning of Aug. 19. Legendary acts The Who, Janis Joplin, Santana and Jimi Hendrix kept the attraction going. “It was incredible,” Miles said. arts & entertainment Fred Miles, the day before he made his journey to Woodstock, 1969. The 1969 Woodstock album, released a year later in 1970, features Miles and friends.
27 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Looking back, Miles vividly recollected the assault on the olfactory senses. The torrential downpours and the lack of accessible restrooms left a lingering memory of the scent even 57 years later. “The smell. I can remember the smell, and it was just overwhelming.” Despite it all, he said, “It was an experience. It was something I will never, never ever forget.” A year after Woodstock, an album was released of all the incredible songs performed. Miles bought it immediately to reminisce on the exhilarating festival. Then the craziest thing happened. While examining the album cover, Miles noticed a familiar face. First, he saw his friend Jim on the right side of the cover. “And then I looked down, I said, ‘holy shit, there I am.’” Miles was now not only able to say he attended Woodstock, but also that he was part of the album cover. Woodstock ’69 might have only lasted a few days, but the impact it had on the people who went lasted much longer. It has become a symbol of the 1960s counterculture movement, a time when live music brought people together, even when it meant chaos. The performing acts electrified the crowds and defined their careers forever. Woodstock in 1969 was never about money, but about performance, community and music. “It was a pretty friendly group. I mean, most everybody was stoned. You know there were no fights. Everybody was just there.” In 1994, the Woodstock festival held a second edition to mark the 25th anniversary of the 1969 festival. Miles was not in attendance but noted that its essence was nothing compared to the original. “It was all corporate.” To him, what made the original Woodstock so special was the genuine discovery of iconic artists. “Considering the people and the acts that I saw, it just blows my mind,” shared Miles, while adding that most of these beloved artists have passed away now. Miles acknowledged, “It’ll never, it can never happen again on that scale.” Woodstock holds a special place in his heart and memories as something truly unbelievable and irreplicable. Although there were concerns with the throngs of people, the weather, the food and restroom availability, if given the chance to do it all over again, Miles admitted he could not resist. “I’d leave tomorrow … I’d leave today.” arts & entertainment Bethel, New York, hosted the 1969 Woodstock festival. The official logo of the Woodstock Music Festival features a white dove on a guitar neck. This logo is from the original site marker sculpted by Wayne Saward in 1984. (Sept. 27, 2015). Offering dance classes, private lessons, workshops, wedding choreography, and social events for dancers of all levels. Our state-of-the-art studio is now open in Mount Pleasant—join us today! CalienteBallroom.com WHERE PASSION MEETS PRECISION 940 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. | Suite 100 | Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 843.606.2397 | buxtonandcollie.com FOR ALL OF LIFE’S TRANSACTIONS. BUSINESS LAW | REAL ESTATE ® VOTED BEST FIRM FOR REAL ESTATE & BUSINESS LAW 6 YEARS IN A ROW!
28 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Focused Persistence Perseverance pays for local artist Christy Kinard carry meaning. I put details into my paintings that tie a place together, fragments that hold memory and connect the work to something real. Found materials bring their own story, and the work is richer because of what they have already lived through.” Studying the works of renowned artists is another constant source of inspiration for Kinard. “Georgia O’Keeffe proved a flower could be monumental. That fearlessness with scale stayed with me, but where her work is precise, mine is raw. Rauschenberg taught me anything can belong on a canvas. Basquiat showed me freedom on the surface. De Kooning gave me permission to be aggressive. Peter Max lives in my subconscious every time I paint a floral. All of those voices are in the work, but the final voice is mine.” For Kinard, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is when someone stands in front of her work and she can see the subject reach them. “Not just visually. Emotionally. That is why I do this.” The accomplishment Kinard is most proud of is "Focused Precision," a permanent installation at the new Hilton Head Island Airport. Incorporating 16 glass panels that are 16-by-28 feet, “Focused Precision” depicts a great blue heron in flight toward the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Over the 30-year span of Kinard’s career, her work has been featured in Southwest Art, Fine Art Connoisseur, The Post and Courier and Mount Pleasant Magazine. Her pieces hang in homes, hospitals and corporate headquarters, as well as in the aforementioned airport terminal. “But none of that is why I paint,” she said. “I paint because every piece is a conversation between me and a place I love. If it reaches someone else, that is the gift.” She concluded, “I built this career from nothing on a shoestring and endured years of hearing no before hearing yes. I kept painting anyway.” BY SARAH ROSE You can view her work at christykinard.com or follow @ christykinard on Instagram. After graduating from Savannah College of Art and Design and the Atlanta College of Art, Christy Kinard did something that scared her: she moved to London where she could visualize fine traditional and contemporary art hanging in the halls of institutions such as the Tate Modern and the Saatchi Gallery. Having studied those masterful works firsthand, she returned to her home state of Georgia, where she lived in Atlanta for the next 23 years before relocating to the Old Village in Mount Pleasant. Kinard said her work is inspired by the tension found between places, such as the golden hour of the marshes across the Lowcountry that she loved visiting as a child, the mountains in Cashiers, North Carolina, or a grey London sky over the Thames River. “Nature is my constant. The herons, the live oaks, the way light moves across water. I have been watching landscapes my whole life and they never stop revealing something.” She added, “Materials inspire me, too. Handmade paper with beautiful weight. Vintage fabric. Objects that
29 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com arts & entertainment I've always had an entrepreneurial spirit, even as a kid, and I’ve experimented with many art forms over the years, dreaming of turning that passion into something I could share with others. This year, my dream came true. I found endless inspiration along the Lowcountry shorelines. There is a quiet kind of beauty here that never feels the same twice. Walking along the beach looking at the shells, sea glass and sand dollars, I admired the way the tide reshapes everything overnight and I wanted to bring that same feeling to my creations. That's how Salt & Shell Studio began. Sitting down with a collection of shells and seeing an idea slowly come to life never gets old. Some creations become paint palettes for fellow artists. Others become decorative trays, jewelry dishes or pieces of home décor. Every shell is different, which means every design tells its own story. I'm so blessed to live in a place like Mount Pleasant where people genuinely believe in supporting local businesses. Our community celebrates artists, makers and dreamers, and that encouragement was exactly what I needed to turn a lifelong passion into something tangible and real. If you've been holding onto an idea, I hope you'll give it a chance. You don't have to have everything figured out. Sometimes all it takes is believing in what you love enough to begin. You never know where it might lead or who it might inspire along the way, and our community is the perfect place to give your dreams a shot. Salt & Shell Studio Where Creativity Meets the Coast BY ALLYAH HARRAR Coastal Pieces, Made with Love Mermaid Seashell Paint Palette FEATURED Inspired by the coast, each palette is handscrafted with real shells, mosaic details and ocean treasures. SaltandShellStudio.com Handmade | Inspired By The Sea | Timeless Design SHOP THE COLLECTION Discover soulful, handcrafted art that transforms your space into a haven of gentle coastal wonder. CHARLESTON, SC
30 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Shoe Store Expert Fitters Dance & Gymnastics Favorite Brands Girls 7-16 & Jr’s Boys 8-20 Tween & Teen Newborn to size 7 Children’s Boutique Gifts & Accessories Loyalty Program The Common • 210 Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant • 843-884-4814 www.ragamuffinchildrensboutique.com Whether you’re a trendsetter, preppy, traditional, or loving the European flare, we have the perfect outfits for your children. @RagamuffinChildrensBoutique @Strideritemountpleasant @Radical RagsTweenShop Dressing Children in the Best from Head to Toe, Tiny to Teen for 71 years in the Lowcountry! SCHOOL AND GAMEDAY • ONE STOP SHOPPING • TINY TO TEEN • SUMMER SALE • DANCE APPAREL 2026 ® Summer to Fall, We have it all
31 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com our town In a perfect world, two barrier islands sitting just off the coast would be connected to the mainland by government as well as causeways. But this is the real world, and it’s not perfect. So it’s up to us to do the work to create our more perfect unions. For the last few years, this is exactly what neighbors in Mount Pleasant, the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island have been doing. I feel that the relationship between the three municipalities is as good as it has ever been. Everyone knows that building good relationships takes work. They don’t just happen. Three elements are key: communication, shared priorities and trust. How did we get here? The Town of Sullivan’s Island as we know it today wasn't incorporated until 1975, however municipal government existed there prior to both Mount Pleasant and the Isle of Palms. Originally incorporated as the Town of Moultrieville in 1817, it somehow lost its charter in the early 1900s and went without one until the 1975 re-incorporation. You have to wonder if during that three-quarters of a century interim there were any annexation discussions between the island and Mount Pleasant, especially during the days when they were so closely connected by the trolley that traveled over the Pitt Street Bridge, with the ascending station numbers of its stops beginning in Mount Pleasant and continuing across the island. Isle of Palms citizens met at the Exchange Club in 1953 and voted 121 to 68 to incorporate. The Town of Mount Pleasant resulted from a half-dozen small townships coming together to incorporate in 1837. Today, mayors Phillip Pounds, Pat O'Neil and I work together effectively by keeping our communication open, honest and frequent. Our three municipalities all by law have the council form of government, wherein mayors have no executive authority to direct staff, so we must be the conduits of information to our respective councils when policy decisions are necessary. Our first priority is always safety, and in this realm all three communities are better together than we are separate. For fire protection, we have what's called automatic aid, whereby calls are responded to by all our fire departments without need of a call for assistance. This force multiplier is crucial in providing response personnel and also equipment now that new fire trucks cost several million dollars and take years for delivery. Likewise, the value of our aid agreements for law enforcement have never been more highly visible than during the massive, coordinated response to the homeschool group vehicle attack on Sullivan’s Island in May 2025. Finally, there is beach traffic management. Traffic congestion during the summer beach season can be overwhelming for all three communities. Several years ago, we started having yearly traffic management coordination meetings to which we invite every applicable agency and department from Charleston County all the way up to the state of South Carolina. We address traffic choke points on the islands and the mainland, public safety, evacuation plans and parking availability. We partner with local TV station WCIV, which offers a live Beach Traffic Tracker - Know B4 You Go with current drive times, which has reached over 15 million hits since its inception. We mayors filmed a promotional spot for it this year that involves tossing a beach ball between us. So when you see that, it represents more than a TV gimmick; there are years of communication and coordination that went into getting us here. BY WILL HAYNIE MAYOR OF MOUNT PLEASANT Mayor’s Message Staying connected
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