FAMILY EDITION 2025 THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES AT WWW.MOUNTPLEASANTPODCAST.COM DENTAL DIRECTORY | VETERINARY DIRECTORY | WEDDING DIRECTORY Legendary Legacies Multi-Generational Family Businesses Simmons Seafood Photo by Mark Staff Photographer. Influential Moms Homemade Content Creators Superdads First Responder Fathers
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7 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com MAY 23 - AUGUST 15 Wander through gardens adorned with striking, larger-than-life sculptures and see a majestic fox in radiant hues, birds frozen mid-flight, and intricate creatures crafted from over 800,000 LEGO® bricks. Perfect for all ages, Sean Kenney’s Nature POP!® is more than an exhibition, it’s an invitation to see the wonders of Magnolia through a lens of color, creativity, and conservation. MOUNT PLEASANT MAGAZINE TUESDAYS Show your Mount Pleasant or Isle of Palms Driver’s license for $5 off adult general admission on Tuesdays at the gate! Exclusively at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens EXPERIENCE MORE THAN 40 STUNNING, LARGER-THAN-LIFE SCULPTURES CRAFTED FROM OVER 800,000 LEGO® BRICKS 9AM - 5PM DAILY Exhibit access is included with General Garden Admission 3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC | (843) 571-1266 | magnoliaplantation.com Online Tickets at magnoliaplantation.com
8 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Staff Box.............................................................11 Publisher's Note...................................................11 From the Editor...................................................13 About the Cover..................................................15 Contributors. ...................................................... 17 Social Buzz.........................................................18 On the Web.........................................................19 contents FAMILY EDITION • VOL. 15, ISSUE 3 Mayor's Message..........................................27 History of Mother's & Father's Day.............28 Influencer Moms..........................................31 Heroic Dads.................................................33 Full House....................................................36 Palmetto Christian Academy........................39 Our Town................................... 25 15 31 Our Sports.................................. Emma Navarro................................................40 Shelby Rogers..................................................43 Special Olympics SC.......................................45 Wild Dunes Golf............................................47 40 43 36 49 Arts & Entertainment.................... Calendar of Events..........................................20 Live Music Schedule........................................22 Magnolia Plantation........................................23 Drayton Hall...................................................25 On the Coast................................. Craven's Grant................................................49 Georgetown Steel Mill.....................................51 Goat Yoga.......................................................53 23
9 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com contents FAMILY EDITION • VOL. 15, ISSUE 3 Simmons Seafood.................................................55 St. Andrew's Church............................................56 Seewee Restaurant................................................57 Hudson’s Import Service.......................................58 Brown Atlantic.....................................................59 Tapio School of Dance & Gymnastics..................62 Saxton & Stump..................................................64 Starling Chevrolet................................................65 Alex Brener..........................................................67 Schirmer Insurance Group...................................69 Family.......................................54 Wedding Venue Directory...............71 Daniel Island Yacht Club................73 Back Barn at Bedaw Farms..............75 Bridal............................ The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene....76 New Fare..........................................79 Behind the Bar.................................81 Catrina’s Tacos and Tequila...............82 Meet the Chef..................................83 Food & Beverage............ 58 62 Dental & Oral Directory..................86 Primary Care....................................87 Compass Vision Care.......................92 Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center....93 Health & Wellness.......84 Megan Molten.................................95 Rudd Pros........................................97 Morales Pavers..................................99 Dwellings......................... Reggie's Report.............................107 Veterinary Directory.....................108 Rescue of the Month.....................109 Four-Legged Family Members.......111 Our Pets......................... East Cooper Neighbors.... 112 TOP TEN HOMES SOLD IN 2025 Old Village..................................101 Daniel Island...............................102 Dunes West.................................103 Park West.....................................104 Sullivan’s Island............................105
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11 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com With May featuring Mother’s Day and June including Father’s Day, we’ve always called our May/June issue the Family Edition. I believe that one of the essential pillars for a healthy community like Mount Pleasant is having strong family values. Over the years I’ve seen examples of how our town’s family values help enrich our community. One is our local school system. Mount Pleasant’s parents’ involvement with their children’s education is one of the reasons the East Cooper school district is celebrated as one of the best. Additionally, when you consider our coastal location, the way our town is managed and the quality of our political leadership, these are all factors that propel our growth. There’s a lot that makes our town desirable, but the roots of our growth started decades ago. I believe there is no reason we can’t keep our town as desirable tomorrow as it is today, no matter how much it grows. Tomorrow will never be the same as today, but the foundation of any town starts with its people and their families. Our town has many generational families whose roots run deep throughout East Cooper. The stories told by their brothers, sisters, uncles, grandfathers and grandmothers provide a glimpse of yesterday. Most importantly, since they were born in Mount Pleasant, they have immense pride and a desire to retain the value and culture of the town they’ve called home all their lives. They reinforce yesterday’s Mount Pleasant and help extend that culture to tomorrow and beyond. With their deep Mount Pleasant roots they strive to help make Mount Pleasant the best community possible. We’ve highlighted some of these generational families in our family edition. When someone is considering the desirability of a place, one of the indicators should be the number of lifelong residents living in the town. I can tell you that Mount Pleasant has many generational families who call it home. For example, the Simmons family who owns Simmons Seafood; the Schirmer family who operates Schirmer Insurance Group and the Breland family who runs Tapio School of Dance & Gymnastics. We may not be able to stop Mount Pleasant’s growth. But we can keep our sense of community as it was yesterday because it’s not about the additional infrastructure or population. Isn’t it really about the people who call Mount Pleasant home? Whether you’re from Mount Pleasant or another state, it’s about helping make the community we live in the best it can be. Thanks for picking up Mount Pleasant Magazine. I hope you enjoy our magazine as much as we enjoy publishing it for you. View it digitally at www. readMPM.com. Positively yours, Bill Macchio Publisher • Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com publisher’s note Family Edition • VOL. 15, ISSUE 3 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM MANAGING EDITOR ZACH GIROUX EDITOR@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ART DIRECTOR DANA COLEMAN PRODUCTION MANAGER BETHANY LONG BRAND AMBASSADOR STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM DIGITAL MANAGER ALLYAH HARRAR ALLYAH@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM DIGITAL/WEB EDITOR GEORGE CONKLIN WEB CONTENT INTEGRATOR ANTHONY MACCHIO COPY EDITOR COLIN MCCANDLESS SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER ALYSSA FRANCO THEDIGITALTOUCHCHS@GMAIL.COM AD DESIGNERS BETHANY LONG KIM HALL WRITERS MARY COY • KATIE FINCH • MAURICE FRAZIER ALLYAH HARRAR • WILL HAYNIE • CARI LAWSON CLARK LEACH • COLIN MCCANDLESS • SARAH ROSE BROOKE WATSON PHOTOGRAPHER MARK STAFF MARK@MARKSTAFFPHOTO.COM INDEPENDENT MEDIA CONSULTANTS STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM SARAH ROSE SARAH@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM PAUL SMITH PAUL@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM COLLEEN KASSNER COLLEEN@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM SHERI ROSE SHERI@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPING GINGER SOTTILE 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 six times per year by Media Services, Inc. 1013 Chuck Dawley Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Copyright © Media Services 2025. 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 Our niche is Community
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13 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Mom. My most frequently uttered three-letter word growing up and the same still applies today. As a young boy, I never realized how often my vocabulary relied on that noun. As commonly as I used it, Mom will always be a proper noun to me, for a myriad of reasons of which I will now unpack. Her name is Debbie, but not to me. She goes by numerous other synonyms such as: Mama, Mama Bear, Little Debbie, Deb, Debby G and Dirty Deb. They’re all interchangeable depending on her mood, the occasion and how long it’s been since I visited home or simply picked up the phone. In my mind, you’ll always be the superwoman who gave birth to a 10-pound gourd of a baby. As time would have it, our relationship matured from my adolescence into manhood. Early on, I depended on you for everything. I’ll spare myself from childhood humility, but I needed you like a newborn needs a pacifier. I was undoubtedly a mama’s boy. As time wore on, so did my pride and pursuit for independence. I was a teenage boy with nothing to lose, yet everything to prove. Let’s fast forward to the present. I’m now a young married man with a wonderful wife and home of our own. I no longer live under the same roof as you and Dad, let alone in the same state, but we make the best of our long-distance relationship. In today’s world of technology, there are no excuses for a lack of communication, only regrets. However, God knows we don’t always see eye to eye. Sometimes I’m stubborn as a mule and you hold grudges like a microphone, but at the end of the day a mother and son’s love can conquer all. We’ve been through good times, bad times, sad times and trying times. But I can’t recall a time when I didn’t lean on you for advice or moral support or confide in you without telling Dad. That being said, I wouldn’t change a thing. In retrospect, I wouldn’t trade the highs and lows of our relationship for a calm and steady upbringing because weathering storms makes us appreciate sunny days. My glass will forever be half full because of you. Thanks for being my mentor, but most importantly, thanks for being my Mom. Love your only son, Zach Giroux Managing Editor from the editor A Mother’s Day Tribute SCAN • CLICK SUBSCRIBE YOUR COMMUNITY, YOUR MAGAZINE FAMILY EDITION 2025 DENTAL DIRECTORY | VETERINARY DIRECTORY | WEDDING DIRECTORY Legendary Multi-Generational Family Businesses Simmons Seafood Influential Moms Homemade Content Creators Superdads First Responder Fathers FAMILY EDITION 2025 DENTAL DIRECTORY | VETERINARY DIRECTORY | WEDDING DIRECTORY gendary Multi-Generational Family Businesses Simmons Seafood Influential Moms Homemade Content Creators Superdads First Responder Fathers
14 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com V I S I T BEWELLATHOME.ORG TO LEARN MORE Got Protection? ARE YOU PREPARED FOR RETIREMENT? Just like a day at the beach, retirement requires the right equipment to ensure you’re protected and prepared. Be Well at Home offers comprehensive asset protection and financial security to give you peace of mind in your golden years. Our wellness coordination ensures your long-term healthcare needs are met, so you can focus on enjoying life in your home. Think of us as your retirement sunscreen, shielding you from the unexpected and keeping you safe. It’s also the best gift you can give your family, knowing you are well taken care of. Call us today at 843-375-5035 to learn more about how we can help you achieve a well-prepared and protected retirement. ASSET PROTECTION LONG-TERM CARE WELLNESS COORDINATION GIFT FOR FAMILY
15 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com about the cover About the Cover BY SARAH ROSE Until the early 1980s, the property where Simmons Point stands today was privately owned by the Simmons family. A dock halfway down the lot was accessible only by a small dirt road. That was where Simmons Seafood began its operations, according to owner Bubba Simmons. His father, Billy Simmons, recalled that during the winter when the shrimping season closed, the boats stopped moving the water around which kept the marsh flushed out. After six months, silt and mud filled in the dormant waters and by the time the warmer weather arrived, shrimpers couldn’t navigate through the muck. Because dredging that area wasn’t possible then, the only way to keep small cracks open, Billy said, was to use dynamite. “It was a common process back then,” Billy explained. “But when we were told the dynamite was stunting the fish and even killing them, we had to stop the operations and look for another solution.” The path forward became clear when the Simmons family sold part of that land to developer William Daly from Florence and bought the property on Shem Creek where Red’s Ice House is today. “There were plenty of boats back then, three wide out, tied alongside each other,” Billy remembered. “Back in the day it was quite a sight to see 80 or 90 of them coming and going through the creek. I wondered how they did not collide.” As the fishing industry boomed in Mount Pleasant, commerce demanded more storage for the shrimp boats. To moor them between trips, the Simmons purchased additional land on Shem Creek where Vickery’s Bar & Grill and Tavern & Table reside today. To honor the legacy of the Simmons family and their contributions to our community, we thought it fitting to feature them on the cover of our Family Edition. To capture the best vantage point for a photo of the Simmons family, our production crew and Shem Creek, our fearless editor, Zach Giroux, climbed a ladder and scaled the roof of the Pleasant Lady shrimping vessel. Standing (left to right) are: media consultant Allyah Harrar; brand ambassador Stacey McLoughlin; publisher Bill Macchio; son Will Simmons; mom Elaine Simmons; dad Bubba Simmons; photographer Mark Staff and media consultant Colleen Kassner. Seated (left to right) are: grandpa Bill Simmons; daughter Kate Simmons and grandma Dee Dee Simmons.
16 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com HAPPY CLIENTS 698 55 SYCAMORE AVE. WEDNESDAYS 3-7 PM WEST ASHLEY NORTH CHARLESTON 4800 PARK CIRCLE THURSDAYS 3-7 PM MARION SQUARE SATURDAYS 8-2 PM SUMMERVILLE DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON 218 S MAIN STREET SATURDAYS 8-1 PM farmers markets MOUNT PLEASANT 645 COLEMAN BLVD. TUESDAYS 3:30-7 PM Save the Date with Katherine Cox + Co @katherinecox.co @katherinecoxco KatherineCoxHomes.com Contact us at MP@katherinecoxhomes.com JAMES ISLAND 1977 MAYBANK HWY SUNDAYS 11-3 PM
17 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com contributors Katie Finch joined the Charleston Women family as a media consultant in 2022. An Alabama native (War Eagle, anyone?) and a former small business owner, Katie loves connecting with local Lowcountry business owners while putting her marketing degree to good use. Mary Coy is a fifth-generation Charlestonian and expert on Charleston history. She has written for Mount Pleasant Magazine for over a decade. Mary can be found giving tours of the Holy City in her free time. 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. 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 from Ursinus College and has been trying to convince her dog Russ to become her data analyst sidekick. Maurice J. Frazier is a freelance writer living on Daniel Island. Born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in the North Charleston and Summerville area, he has been working in the TV and film industry for the last eight years. Clark Leach is a business and health writer with more than 20 years of experience. He has written for several publications. His work has appeared in Greenville Business, Charleston Business, Charleston Women, HealthLinks and The Tennessean. 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! 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. 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. 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.
18 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com social buzz In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful platform for expressing emotions, opinions and support. Mount Pleasant is no exception, with countless individuals sharing their love and appreciation through posts and comments. Residents and local businesses are increasingly using our platforms to celebrate the bonds they share and the positive impact the community has had on their lives. Mount Pleasant Magazine is a vital tool for building your brand and growing your audience. From showcasing our editorial features to supporting local businesses, our online presence encourages engagement and strengthens community connections. If you’re interested in expanding your audience or partnering with Mount Pleasant Magazine, email Publisher@MountPleasantMagazine.com or call (843) 530-0403. 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 Dawley Blvd. Sunoco Rifle Range Rd. TWO LOCATIONS! With this MPM Coupon. This coupon is not valid with any other coupon offers. Exp. 6/30/25. $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 2025 ®
19 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com on the web The Town of Mount Pleasant’s YouTube channel offers a front row seat to everything happening in the community. Stay up to date on major projects, traffic updates, public meetings and the latest town initiatives. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the talented staff bringing projects to life and working to make Mount Pleasant a great place to live, work and play. From quick updates to in-depth recaps, the town’s YouTube is the place for longer, more detailed videos covering key issues, project highlights and town meetings. Whether catching up on important decisions or learning more about community efforts, residents can take a deeper dive into the topics that matter most to them. Subscribe to @TOMPSC on YouTube today. Stay Plugged Into Your Town For even more updates, follow @mountpleasantgov on Instagram and Town of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina on Facebook. Additional ways to stay informed, including Notify Me alerts and the town administrator’s E-brief newsletter, are available at tompsc.com. Have feedback or suggestions? Reach out to communications@tompsc.com. Stay connected — Mount Pleasant is just a click away! From Los Altos of Jalisco Mexico to Daniel Island. Family owned taco kitchen + tequilera.Craft, handmade margaritas made with 100% blue agave tequila. Over 100 tequilas, mezcals, and sotol. VIVATacosTequila.com | 864 Island Park Drive, DanieI Island 2024 ® May 17- Doug Walters indoor stage 6-9pm & HALF PRICE BURGERS May 20- Music Bingo hosted by DJ BHustle 6-8pm May 21- Doug Walters indoor stage 6-9pm & HALF PRICE BURGERS May 27- Music Bingo hosted by Brooke Ryan from 2 Girls & a Guy 6-9pm May 28- Doug Walters indoor stage 6-9pm & HALF PRICE BURGERS May 30- Hanz Wenzel Bier Garden 7-10pm May 31- Savannah Grace indoor stage 7-10pm MAY EVENTS Bohemian Bull Mount Pleasant 2668 N. Hwy 17 | 843-654-9141
20 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com ONGOING Charleston Farmers Market When: Saturdays, April-November 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Marion Square Weekly farmers market with produce, prepared foods and other goods from local vendors, arts and crafts and live performances. --------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. Live music, free admission. Plenty of parking available. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Isle of Palms Farmers Market When: Every third Thursday, June-October from 4-7 p.m. Where: IOP Rec Center 24 28th Ave. The market will feature fresh produce, food vendors, live music and more! Parking is available on site. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Party at the Point When: Every Friday at 5 p.m. until 7/18 Where: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina This family-friendly event hosted on the beachfront of Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina features live music and food and drinks. Gates open at 5 p.m., with music starting at 6 p.m. each week. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Live Under The Oaks Concert Series When: Every Thursday at 6 p.m., starting May 1 Where: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre Snack on light bites from local food trucks and sip beer and wine from Burtons Grill & Bar while you enjoy live music from a different local musician or band each week under the oaks. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Charleston Greek Festival When: 5/9-5/11 Where: Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity Come enjoy a celebration of fun and Greek culture at the oldest festival in the Charleston area, dating back to 1970. Attendees can enjoy Greek food, wine, live music and dancing. --------------------------------------------------------------------- LENS Foundation Neighborhood Block Party When: 5/12 at 5 p.m. Where: Islander 71 This family-friendly event honoring IOP first responders will include live music, food and kids’ entertainment. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Dancing on the Cooper Where: Mount Pleasant Pier at Memorial Waterfront Park Where: 5/16 from 7-10 p.m. Tommy & The Chucktown Players plays an eclectic fusion of soul, rock and funk. The band covers songs dating as far back as the Motown movement of the ‘60s and the classic rock era of the ‘80s as well as today’s greatest hits. Calendar of Events MAY
21 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com --------------------------------------------------------------------- Cast Off Fishing Tournament When: 5/17, 6/14 from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Mount Pleasant Pier Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest Youth Catch (12 & under) and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Run Charlie Run 5K When: 5/18 at 3 p.m. Where: Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park The annual 5K race at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park, the home of the Charleston Riverdogs. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Spoleto Festival USA When: 5/23-6/8 Where: Venues throughout the Charleston area The nation’s preeminent performing arts festival with performances by renowned artists as well as emerging performers in opera; theater; dance; and chamber, orchestral, choral, jazz and contemporary music. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Piccolo Spoleto When: 5/23-6/8 Where: Various locations throughout Charleston Traditional program offerings include visual arts exhibits, classical music, jazz, dance, theater, poetry readings, children’s activities, choral music, ethnic cultural presentations, crafts and film. --------------------------------------------------------------------- 4th Annual Park Circle Pride When: 6/3-6/8 Where: Various venues in Park Circle An inclusive event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, the festival will include a week of events at different locations around the Park Circle area including bars, restaurants, breweries and more. --------------------------------------------------------------------- D-Day 81st Anniversary Memorial When: 6/6 Where: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum To honor the 81st anniversary of the Invasion of Normandy, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum invites visitors to explore the museum and step aboard the USS Laffey (DD-724) to learn about the pivotal role this historic destroyer played in the monumental event. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Women’s Adventure Film Tour When: 6/12 at 7:30 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall The film festival is a celebration of the inspiring women around us who are doing extraordinary things in the name of adventure. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Charleston Carifest When: 6/13-6/16 Where: Various locations throughout Charleston Charleston Carifest is a four-day celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month, filled with vibrant music, food, dance and colorful costumes. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Charleston Sprint Triathlon When: 6/15 from 7:15-11:15 a.m. Where: James Island County Park The triathlon offers an exhilarating challenge featuring a series of events with a 600-yard swim, 12-mile bike ride and 5K run at James Island County Park. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Carolina Billfish Classic When: 6/18-6/21 Where: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina Come fish South Carolina's premier billfishing tournament! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Carolina Day When: 6/28 from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Where: Fort Moultrie Carolina Day is the annual commemoration of the Battle of Sullivan's Island that occurred on June 28, 1776. During this weekend, the park hosts living historians, historic weapons demonstrations, ranger programs and other activities. arts & entertainment JUNE
22 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Live Music May/June MAY- --------------------- LIVE UNDER THE OAKS CONCERT SERIES When: Every Thursday at 6 p.m., starting May 1 Where: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre Snack on light bites from local food trucks and sip beer and wine from Burtons Grill & Bar while you enjoy live music from a different local musician or band each week under the oaks. --------------------------------------------------------------------- STURGILL SIMPSON When: 5/23 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium Sturgill Simpson is known for his traditional country sound and introspective lyrics. --------------------------------------------------------------------- SHAMARR ALLEN When: 5/28 at 10 p.m. Where: The Pour House Hailing from the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans, Allen has influences in jazz, hip hop, rock, funk, funk blues and country. --------------------------------------------------------------------- REGGAE NIGHTS SUMMER CONCERTS When: 5/30 at 8 p.m. Where: James Island County Park The concert series features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude in a beautiful outdoor setting. Bring your chairs or blanket. --------------------------------------------------------------------- BAND OF HORSES When: 5/31 at 9 p.m. Where: College of Charleston Cistern Yard Blending elements of indie rock, folk and country, Band of Horses creates a sound that is both familiar and uniquely their own. --------------------------------------------------------------------- JUNE--------------------- REVEREND HORTON HEAT When: 6/3 at 8:30 p.m. Where: The Pour House The Reverend Horton Heat is the stage name of American musician James C. Heath as well as the name of his psychobilly trio from Dallas. --------------------------------------------------------------------- ETIENNE CHARLES GULLAH ROOTS WITH SPECIAL GUEST QUENTIN BAXTER When: 6/4 at 9 p.m. Where: College of Charleston Cistern Yard Trinidad-born trumpeter, composer and storyteller Etienne Charles embarks on a captivating musical journey that explores the rich history and culture of the Gullah Geechee people, drawing parallels to his Caribbean heritage. --------------------------------------------------------------------- BARENAKED LADIES When: 6/6 at 7 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center Barenaked Ladies are a Canadian rock band formed in 1988 that melds humorous lyrics with pop-rock melodies. --------------------------------------------------------------------- DANGERMUFFIN When: 6/7 at 9 p.m. Where: The Pour House Dangermuffin blends mindful lyrics with contemplative sounds, creating songs aimed at reinvigorating the soul. --------------------------------------------------------------------- PARTY AT THE POINT: MOTOWN THROWDOWN When: 6/13 at 6 p.m. Where: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina This family-friendly event hosted on the beachfront of Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina features live music and food and drinks. Gates open at 5 p.m., music starts at 6 p.m. --------------------------------------------------------------------- GLASS ANIMALS When: 6/14 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium Glass Animals are an English indie rock band formed in Oxford in 2010. --------------------------------------------------------------------- DAVE MATTHEWS BAND When: 6/20, 6/21 at 7 p.m. Where: Credit One Stadium Dave Matthews Band is an American rock band from Charlottesville, Virginia. --------------------------------------------------------------------- HEART When: 6/22 at 7 p.m. Where: North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center Heart is an American rock band formed in 1974 and led by sisters Ann Wilson and Nancy Wilson. --------------------------------------------------------------------- CLUTCH When: 6/24 at 8 p.m. Where: Charleston Music Hall Clutch crafts hyper-literate and libertine jams informed by hardcore fury and fuzzy, athletic, stoner rock.
23 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, one of Charleston’s most treasured historic sites, is bringing a bold new experience to the Lowcountry this summer with Nature POP!, an awe-inspiring exhibition by acclaimed artist Sean Kenney. Opening May 23 through Aug. 15, this highly anticipated exhibit will feature more than 40 larger-than-life sculptures made entirely of LEGO bricks, celebrating the beauty of nature through an exciting pop-art lens. Produced by Imagine, Nature POP! brings together art, science and innovation in a fun yet thought-provoking way, offering a playful spin on traditional sculptural art. Constructed from over 800,000 LEGO pieces, these gravity-defying sculptures will be strategically placed throughout Magnolia, where their highly stylized and colorful designs will create a striking contrast to the garden’s historic beauty. “We are thrilled to bring artist Sean Kenney’s Nature POP!: Made with LEGO Bricks to Magnolia,” said Susan Shallo, CEO of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. “Just as our historic gardens offer something for everyone, this exhibition merges art, innovation and nature to create a truly dynamic and immersive experience. Whether you're a family discovering the wonders of nature, an art enthusiast drawn to creative expression or simply seeking a scenic escape, this newest addition to the gardens offers a fresh and exciting way to experience the wonders of Magnolia in an entirely new light.” From a majestic fox standing tall in bright hues to vibrant birds frozen in midflight, the exhibit invites guests of all ages to explore the interconnectedness of nature — just as LEGO bricks fit together to create something greater. Each display highlights relationships within the natural world, from the delicate balance between predators and prey to the nurturing bonds between species and humankind’s impact on the environment. Interactive content enhances the experience with scientific facts, deepening visitors' understanding of these natural connections. "I’m super excited to bring Nature POP! to Magnolia Plantations & Gardens,” said Kenney. “Magnolia’s beautiful landscapes are the perfect backdrop for my sculptures, which use the bold color of LEGO bricks to show the amazing world of nature. Together, they will let you experience the outdoors in a fun and new way!" Located at 3550 Ashley River Road, guests can explore the art installation at Magnolia daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting May 23 through Aug. 15. Exhibit access is included with general garden admission. General admission tickets are adults $35; seniors (62+), military and teachers (with ID) $32; youth (12-17) $21; children (5-11) $17; ages 4 and under free (ticket required). Nature POP! Magnolia Plantation and the LEGO Brick Road Tickets are available for purchase at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens and online at magnoliaplantation.com/ magnolia-events. arts & entertainment
24 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com FEATURES FOR THEM, LUXURY FOR YOU CONFIDENCE FOR ALL
25 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com The earliest and finest example of Palladian architecture in the United States, Drayton Hall has housed seven generations within its walls throughout the centuries. Situated along the banks of the Ashley River, the tract of land was purchased in 1738 by John Drayton, the son of a leading colonial family who created generational wealth by facilitating slavery. Documents from the 18th century indicate that Drayton controlled more than 100 commercial plantations spanning 76,000 acres of land. Historians estimate he also owned thousands of slaves. In 1784, Drayton’s second son Charles took up residence at Drayton Hall with his wife, Hester Middleton. Charles’s diary references several skilled artisans by name, possibly reflecting that a stratified enslaved society was in operation on the plantation. Toby and Quash, he wrote, were carpenters, Dumplin was the cook and George, the butler. Although the Civil War ended the slave trade and thus the harvesting of the wealth-producing rice crop, many of the freed African American families remained on the Drayton Hall property. Over the decades they kept Drayton Hall alive by raising children, maintaining their houses and the landscape, cooking, farming and gardening. Unlike many other plantations that fell into disrepair in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Drayton Hall was never abandoned, nor did it sit idle. Some descendants lived on the estate until as late as 1960. As a result, it was never necessary to restore the mansion. Consequently, historians have had the rare opportunity to study materials and designs from every period of the house’s history, even dating back to the time of construction. A collection of archaeological finds, archives and decorative arts tells the story of the estate’s curation, a life of privilege, the harsh realities of plantation life and an encroaching war. By investigating the main house and its surrounding areas including the African American cemetery, the late 18th-century privy building, the 20th-century freedmen’s village and the former garden house and colonnades, staff archaeologists are continually discovering new information about the residents of Drayton Hall. Excavations have yielded artifacts that provide invaluable insight into the undocumented lives of the Native Americans and Africans who lived on the land during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. A visit to Drayton Hall requires more than a tour of the home. Take time to explore the display of internationally significant furniture, artwork, manuscripts and archaeological finds in the Steven and Laura Gates Exhibit Gallery. Then stroll through the Lenhardt Courtyard Garden, surrounded by historically accurate botanicals. Peruse the gift shop’s curated selection of high-end art reproductions, an extensive collection of porcelain, books, jewelry, local food favorites and more. Marketing director Patty Sailer explained what to expect from the overall experience. “Drayton Hall Preservation Trust fosters a deeper understanding of colonial America and the evolution of life in the South by discovering, researching, conserving and interpreting the history, context and culture of Drayton Hall,” she said. Preserved with Purpose Drayton Hall BY SARAH ROSE For more information, visit draytonhall.org. arts & entertainment
26 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com Fall Concert Series October 3 - 18 WWW.PAWLEYSMUSIC.COM for tickets Pawleys Island Festival of Music & Art Big Swing & the Ballroom Blasters The Hit Men Ultimate Classic Rock Mandy Barnett New York Bee Gees Arrival from Sweden: The World’s Greatest ABBA Tribute Show September in the Park Earth Wind & Fire, Chicago Tribute Band How Sweet It Is: Steve Leslie Sings James Taylor 2025 ® DRESSING THEM IN THE BEST FROM TINY TO TEEN FOR 70 YEARS! MOTHER’S DAY • MEMORIAL DAY • 4TH OF JULY • COMMUNION • BIRTHDAY Summer is here! Are you ready? Their Very Own Shop! For Girls & Boys 7-16 All the Top Brands in Shoes! Full Service Shoe & Dance Shop Children’s Boutique Newborn to size 7
27 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com our town Remaining a familyoriented town while in the midst of decades of growth has not been easy for Mount Pleasant. But everything in life that isn’t easy becomes possible through commitment. Though I wasn’t born here, my family moved to Mount Pleasant in 1966 when the population was only 6,000. There were only a couple of suburban neighborhoods at that time and the city limits were small. Commercial activity centered around Coleman Boulevard with small shops on Pitt Street in the Old Village, where I went to kindergarten. Shem Creek at the time had countless shrimp boats but only one or two restaurants. Our family moved here from a small mill town in Upstate South Carolina in which my father, grandfather and great-grandfather had all been family doctors. The town was half the size of Mount Pleasant and very much like Andy Griffith’s Mayberry in every way. Leaving everything we knew behind, plus grandparents and cousins, felt traumatic to my sister and me. I remember my mother telling me to give Mount Pleasant a chance, that there were friendly people here who would welcome a new 5-year-old boy and make us feel welcome. After the move, my mother – as only mothers can do – went to great lengths to help me develop friendships, get to know the town and feel at home. My parents bought me my first fishing pole, a Zebco rod and reel from the local drug store, and with my dad, I caught my first flounder fishing from the old Pitt Street Bridge on a day that lives fresh in my memory more than half a century later. Fast forward to September 2020. After moving away from Mount Pleasant twice, I relocated here for the third time, became mayor and there were then about 92,000 residents. I saw a mother’s post on Facebook about having moved here from out of state, and with no friends or family here, she was looking for suggestions for her son Connor’s 5th birthday on Oct. 3. That hit me right in the heart. So I reached out to Connor’s mom and next thing we knew, the Town of Mount Pleasant police, fire and public services teams had planned the coolest “Welcome to Mount Pleasant” birthday event for Connor that any 5-year-old could have. His mom, Danielle, brought him to town hall where the parking lot was full of police cars and fire trucks with lights flashing and sirens wailing and dump trucks honking their horns. Even our police dogs joined in welcoming Connor to his new town. Connor came up to the mayor’s office where he was declared “Mayor for a Day,” and sat at my desk signing commemorative documents. Mount Pleasant today with 97,000 residents can be as welcoming to families as it was when it only had 6,000 residents if we are determined to keep it that way. I know two 5-year-old boys, albeit half a century apart, who can vouch for that. BY WILL HAYNIE MAYOR OF MOUNT PLEASANT Mayor’s Message Family Matters
28 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com BY MARY COY Praise for Parents History of Mother’s & Father’s Day THE MAKEUP OF MOTHER’S DAY A day known as Mothering Sunday actually began hundreds of years ago in medieval England. It was a homecoming of sorts, when extended families attended church services with their mothers on Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent. Many Brits still celebrate that day, but it has largely been replaced with the worldwide observation of Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May. The American version of Mother’s Day began in the early 20th century. In 1907, a woman in Grafton, West Virginia, planned an event to publicly recognize the efforts of her own mother who strove to promote the health and well-being of women in her community. The tradition of paying tribute to all mothers soon spread throughout the country. A national holiday was officially established in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson, who proclaimed it to be a day to honor that “tender, gentle army — the mothers of America.” And so began the custom of wearing a carnation to honor mothers — a pink or red flower signified a mother who was alive while a white carnation would remember a mother who was deceased. Honoring mothers has had a place throughout history. Ancient civilizations held festivals to revere the mother of their gods and goddesses. Even today, one of the most important holidays in Hindu tradition honors the goddess Durga, the mother of all that is good. A May Crowning has long been a tradition in Catholic churches in which a young child places a wreath of flowers atop a statue of the
29 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com our town Virgin Mary, considered the mother of the church. Many organizations and societies hold receptions in honor of mothers, and some houses of worship ask mothers to stand and be recognized during their services. In Charleston, the Greek Festival is celebrated each Mother’s Day weekend and is geared toward family fun. The Second Sunday on King Street coincides with Mother’s Day and offers another enjoyable option. And the College of Charleston traditionally holds its commencement ceremonies on Mother’s Day weekend. After all, what better way to celebrate mothers than an opportunity for her to preen over her child’s educational accomplishment? THE FOUNDATION OF FATHER’S DAY Fathers aren’t left out of the equation, but their special day was a long time in coming. A year after the Grafton Mother’s Day was first observed, a day of remembrance was held in another West Virginia town after a mining accident left many fathers dead. The following year, a woman in Spokane, Washington, wanted to honor her father, a Civil War veteran who had raised his six children alone after their mother died. Local churches aided her efforts, and the tradition garnered nationwide support. But it didn’t officially become a national holiday until Congress passed a resolution just 50 years ago. Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June. In keeping with tradition, a red rose is worn to acknowledge a father who is living, while a white one is worn to pay tribute to one who is deceased. So what do local dads like to do on Father’s Day? Many want to head out on the water. Typically, the beaches and boat landings are packed on Dad’s day. Maybe a kayak rental at Shem Creek or a charter sunset harbor cruise with the family appeals to some. Or Dad might prefer some time on the golf course, maybe with his adult children. And a cookout at home with the fam is always a winner. But truth be told, a little “me” time may just be what some dads want. One Mount Pleasant father of three preschoolers admitted, “A perfect Father’s Day starts with sleeping in and breakfast with the family. Grab a workout and go meet my fellow dads at Leon’s Oyster Shop or maybe Lewis Barbecue. Or maybe both! Then pick up a new video game and enjoy it in solitude before outside play time with the kids and grilling afterward.” Undoubtedly, some mothers may agree that a few hours of quiet time or pampering at a salon would enhance their special day. In the 1930s, there was an attempt to do away with the separate holidays of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day and to replace them with Parents’ Day. It fell flat. So we still have these two special days to honor the people who have helped guide us to where we are now. And after all, don’t they deserve it? 3501 Lively Lane | Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 marshcarolinapark.com | /marshcarolinapark.com What could be better than rejuvenating your life with a beautiful, new apartment or suite in The Marsh at Carolina Park! We o er stunning architecture, a fabulous medical sta , state-of-the-art programs, and a kind and loving sta . Join our sta and residents and enjoy life! Contact Lisa, our Marketing Director, to arrange a tour and to learn more about our exquisite community. We look forward to meeting you soon! LISA SCOTT | 330.488.5822 | lisa.scott@ssmgrp.com ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE INDEPENDENT COTTAGES Several suites feature a private covered balcony or patio overlooking the courtyard! The Good Ol’ Summertime Never Seemed So Good! Experience living your best life! The Good Times Wil Experience liv ASK ABOUT PROMOTIONAL PRICING!!
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