Issuu

Mt. Pleasant

APRIL 2017

MtPleasantLifestylePubs.com

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Lifestyle Letter

Glorious Spring

APRIL 2017

hat is it about spring that makes us feel happier, lighter and more youthful? William Shakespeare wrote, “April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.” He was right about that—April is usually when we begin to recognize the first buds of the season; feel that lightness of spirit. Though the New Year brings a sense of new beginnings, we have to muddle through winter—the uncertainty of the weather, the quirky slant of the sun, the short hours of daylight and by the time spring arrives, we are ready for it. We live in an area of temperate climate and despite the fact we can get out and enjoy the many activities our community has to offer nearly year-round; no season brings us out in droves more than spring time. It is a respite from the short days of winter and the pause before the humid heat settles in to stay for the summer. We dust off the patio furniture, pull out our gardening accoutrement and get our hands in the dirt; garden, plant and trim. Spring lushness surrounds us—the bright greens of our lawns and parks, the colorful flowers that seemingly overnight, shoot up out of the ground or the pots we’ve planted them in. The air brings in breezes of serenity. Our spiritual warrior awakens and there’s a sense of rebirth. Nature and its inhabitants are noisy and glad about it. We get out and do—walk, run, exercise, take on a new challenge and clear out the clutter—literally and metaphorically—and we feel inspired and renewed. In this issue, you’ll read about the people who founded a Mount Pleasant tradition, “The Blessing of the Fleet,” and how this month marks its 30th anniversary—bigger, better and more beautiful than ever. A local golf pro gives tips about how to improve your game, just in time for one of golf ’s busiest seasons. Master gardeners highlight what to plant to make your garden gorgeous, or what to choose if your green space is limited. A professional organizer gives tips on how to decide what to keep, toss or donate, and how the act of opening up space in your closet can open up your life. Our pages give you glimpses of our wonderful community and the people in it. I hope you’ll get out and say hello to each other. Breathe in the season, get a spring in your step. Happy Spring!

PUBLISHER

Bill Northrop | Bill.Northrop@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Brigitte Surette | Brigitte.Surette@LifestylePubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kathryn Martin | Kathryn.Martin@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Deborah Sledziona, Sydney Herwig, Linda Page CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jess Wood

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS MANAGER

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Janeane Thompson

CREATIVE MANAGER

| Nicole Sylvester

EDITORIAL MANAGER

| Nicolette Martin

EDITORIAL

| Victoria Perry, Lindsey Howard

AD MANAGER

| Chad Jensen

SENIOR AD DESIGNER AD COORDINATORS

| Megan Seymour

| Cyndi Harrington, Andrea Thomas Alicia Huff

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

| Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

| Melanie Carlisle

EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

| Randa Makeen

| Michael O’Connell

| Hanna Park, Scott Lavigne

Brigitte Surette, Editor Brigitte.Surette@LifestylePubs.com

MtPleasantLifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER The Blessing of the Fleet 2016 PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY NICOLE HARVEY, SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER, THE TOWN OF MOUNT PLEASANT 4

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

JOIN US

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Mt. Pleasant’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Publisher’s Letter

Pub Talk

f I lived in Des Moines would anyone ever visit? There is a lot to love about the Lowcountry - the weather, our welcoming Charleston culture, food!, the ocean, Southern hospitality and the list goes on. There's a reason Charleston is consistently ranked as a top tourist destination. What this means to us...is visitors... or as I say, the "Florida effect." When we lived in Florida years ago, I found it amazing how many old Northern friends and distant relatives suddenly wanting to re-connect, particularly during the winter months. I never knew I meant so much to them. And I welcomed each and every one of them. You simply cannot have too many friends or too good of relations with extended family. So visitors visited and we did the whole Florida thing - over and over and over again. Yet even realizing I was often a friend or family member of convenience, there was never one time it failed being a rich time talking about old times and catching up with each other's lives. Now we live in Mt Pleasant and it is Destination Charleston for friends and family. I still love every visit regardless of how remote the connection. I love exploring the city and the surrounding area. It

does not grow old to me. I am proud of Charleston, its rich history and the way so much has been preserved. It is not Florida with its theme parks and acres of asphalt. Thank God. It is Charleston with its abiding Southern hospitality, sweetwater baskets and exquisite cuisine. Recently I welcomed six female high school classmates - all at once. They choose Charleston this year for their annual girl's weekend and I was touched they reached out wanting to re-connect. My wife and I met them downtown at the Charleston Grill on King St. (where else?) and enjoyed a delightful evening talking about old times, old friends, friends no longer with us, kids and grandkids. High school was many years ago but it did not seem like it, the years evaporating before us. So welcome your friends, walk King St. for the umpteenth time and bring them to the USS Yorktown to spend some tourist dollars in Mt Pleasant. And be melancholy when they depart. Time is fleeting, relationships are precious and you could live in Des Moines.

Bill Northrop Bill.Northrop@LifestylePubs.com

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SOUTHERN BACKYARD DINING April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

April 2017

Departments

12 Energize Your Home & Life

Publisherâ€™s Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Locally Owned

Healthy Lifestyle

Renovate & Refine

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

A Professional Organizer Tells You How to De-Clutter

16 The Blessing of The Fleet

A Mount Pleasant Tradition Celebrates 30 Years

20 Game On

A Local Golf Pro Gives Tips to Get You Ready for the Season

26 Full Bloom in the Lowcountry

A Master Gardener Reveals How to Make Your Garden Grow

Vail Travel “I have used Vail Travel for my domestic and international travel needs for over 12 years because they know nuances of the transportation, lodging and touring providers that the internet does not AND I have an advocate if anything changes!”

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April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Good Times

Wando High School Presents "Aida"

Under the direction of Christine Cleary, Wando High School recently performed "Aida" to multiple sold-out performances. Hundreds of students participated including stand-outs Charlotte Marchell in the lead role of Aida and Will Basco as Adames.

Alex Hodges as Amneris

Will Basco as Radames and male ensemble

Will Basco as Radames

Will Basco as Radames and Charlotte Marchell as Aida

Alex Hodges as Amneris with female ensemble

Some of the cast and crew of Aida 8

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

Traezon Wright as Mereb and Charlotte Marchell as Aida

Zach Green as Zoser

Charlotte Marchell as Aida

L to R, Alex Hodges, Hayden Bogan, Will Basco, Zach Green

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

is extremely important to us, so we are proud to celebrate Charleston seafood suppliers, while also supporting this fun, family event.” For more information visit ExperienceMountPleasant.com.

HY | LO FITNESS, LLC -- NOW OPEN IN MOUNT PLEASANT AT 880 ALLBRITTION BLVD. Bringing 20 years of combined fitness experience under one roof, a new fitness facility experience is now in Mount Pleasant. The HYLO concept features 2 designated spaces; one for high intensity training (HY), and one for low impact/low intensity - (LO). HYLO brings group fitness needs under one roof, for one price. Get balanced total fitness at HYLO. Visit HYLOfitness.com or call for a free session - 843.732.0131.

30TH ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE FLEET & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL NAMED STS TOP 20 EVENT

SHAGGIN’ ON THE COOPER SERIES KICKS OFF APRIL 29 The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC)

The Southeastern Tourism Society (STS) has named the Blessing of

invites people of the Lowcountry to put on their dancing shoes and

the Fleet & Seafood Festival one of the STS Top 20 Events for April 2017.

get ready for a summer of shagging on the pier! The popular Shaggin’

A Top 20 Award brings publicity and recognition to the best events in the

on the Cooper series kicks off the season on Saturday, April 29 at the

Southeast and travel industry experts select 20 events per month, publiciz-

Mount Pleasant Pier with live music by The Sugarbees.

ing them throughout the U.S. East Cooper Medical Center and Harris Teeter

Bands from Charleston and throughout the state will perform at

both return as Co-Presenting Sponsors for the 30th annual celebration on

the end of the 1250 foot-long pier next to Memorial Waterfront Park,

Sunday, April 30, from 11:00 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Memorial Waterfront Park.

the perfect spot to catch cool breezes, beautiful scenery, and views

SCHEDULE:

of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. Beverages are avail-

11:00a – Opening Band

able for purchase on site, and food is available for sale at the Mount

12:30p – National Anthem sung on main stage with Honor Guard

Pleasant Pier’s River Watch Café. For more information, call 843-795-

12:35p – Mayor welcome speech, Presenting Sponsors and

4386 or visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.

Procession announcement 12:45p – Procession begins at Pier Entrance Gate with Honor Guard, ministers, Mayor, dignitaries

ECCO BOARD ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

1:00p – Blessing at end of Pier and Boat Parade in Charleston

East Cooper Community Outreach (ECCO) is pleased to

Harbor. Blessing to be broadcast live into the Park and out to the

announce and welcome Stephanie McNulty Kelley as the orga-

public via 94.3 WSC

nization’s next Executive Director. A long-time ECCO volunteer

2:00p – East Coast Party Band

and former Board member, Kelley has more than twenty years of

3:30p – Shrimp-Eating Contest presented by Gilligan’s

experience working in higher education, demonstrated success in

4:00p – Shag Contest with East Coast Party Band presented by

organizational leadership, a strong portfolio of consulting projects,

Harris Teeter

and a lifelong dedication to community service.

5:00p – Festival Ends

ECCO was founded in 1989 as an emergency relief effort after Hurricane Hugo. The organization strives to eliminate poverty in the

“East Cooper Medical Center is proud that this will be our tenth

East Cooper Region by offering a number of programs. More than

year as a sponsor for the Blessing of the Fleet. The fact that last year

4,500 families a year receive emergency assistance. Their services

our hospital celebrated 30 years of providing quality medical care to

are enhanced through personal interaction with staff who provide

our community makes the 30th anniversary of the Blessing of the

individualized support for each client.

Fleet even more special,” said CEO Jason Alexander.

Kelley joined the staff in March 2017 and was honored by ECCO

“Harris Teeter is proud to be a co-presenting sponsor of the Blessing

in the fall of 2016 as Volunteer of the Year. She remains dedicated to

of the Fleet for the fourth year in a row,” said Danna Robinson, com-

giving back and strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives

munication manager for Harris Teeter. “Harris Teeter’s commitment to

of others. For a full biography and list of Kelley’s honors and achieve-

the Lowcountry runs deep and sourcing high-quality, local products

ments, visit ECCOcharleston.org. April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

The

King of Spring

hat started out as a three acre strawberry patch over twenty years ago has now grown into one of largest crops of the delicious berries in the Lowcountry. Boone Hallâ€™s strawberries are legendary and are the backbone of the spring crops grown on some of the richest farmland in the Lowcountry. This yearâ€™s crop arrived early in mid February due to the milder winter temperatures and with the

unpredictable weather patterns it is difficult to know how long the season will last. But make no mistake about it. While they are available, the farm staff insists this is one of the best crops of strawberries that have ever been grown at Boone Hall Farms. The centerpiece of this spring rite of passage at Boone Hall is The Lowcountry Strawberry Festival. This popular spring event continues to strive to strike

a balance of providing fun exciting attractions and activities with wholesome fun on the farm. As this event has continued to grow, different kinds of entertainment of all shapes and sizes has been incorporated into the festival. But it is important to note that at the center of it all has been and will always be strawberries.

LOWCOUNTRY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL APRIL 20-21-22-23

SEE COMPLETE EVENT DETAILS AND BUY ADVANCE TICKETS ONLINE AT:

B O O N E H A L L P L A N TAT I O N . CO M

Locally Owned

Energizing Your Home for Spring FIVE STEPS TO CLEAR OUT THE CLUTTER

ARTICLE DEBORAH SLEDZIONA

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

“Letting go of those pressures and negative things in your space really puts a positive aspect on your life.”

Before: A cluttered closet can overwhelm each time you step into the space.

After: Putting things in place puts everything into perspective!

he thought of decluttering for spring can be daunting, but it doesn’t

example, if organizing a closet, focus on one aspect at a time (think

have to be. We reached out to professional organizer and Mt. Pleasant

categories: blouses, shoes, etc.). Set aside fifteen minutes each day to

resident, Jen Van Buskirk of Home Organizing by Jen, to discover her

work on your project until it is complete. Watch your space gradually

secrets to professionally organizing and energizing a space. Follow these

transform with each passing day.

five decluttering steps to make any space positively radiant this spring: FOCUS ON ONE AREA

LET IT GO

Letting go can be tough, but it is a necessary step in creating a

When setting goals, it is helpful to break them into smaller goals. “It

more organized and positive space. To truly gain a sense of what

is a very dangerous approach to focus on the whole home at once,”

belongs in a home, items must be addressed individually. “You can

Buskirk cautions. Focus on which spaces are going to give you the

look at your scarfs and think, ‘I love them all,’ but then, you aren’t

most satisfaction. Is it that disheveled closet? Is it a disorganized

addressing each individual piece,” Buskirk says.

home office? Start with whichever space intuitively comes to you first.

Pick one item at a time and ask yourself: “Do I love it?” “Does it make me happy?” “Do I actually wear it?” If you can’t answer yes, it’s time to let

SET MINI-GOALS

For those who may be intimidated by larger projects, once you have chosen a space, start by breaking it into micro-projects. For

go. You may be holding onto an item because somebody special gave it to you, but these items can build up quickly. If you are holding onto old gifts out of guilt or negative feelings, it’s time to let it go.

CONTINUED >

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

“If it doesn’t make you happy and if it isn’t serving you, then it has no purpose in your space.” CATEGORIZE LOGICALLY

A key component to organization is categorizing. When addressing each item individually, ask yourself, “What other items do I think of with this piece?” If you want to find batteries, do you think of light bulbs? Tools? You probably don’t think of cleaning supplies. Organization by category will vary from one person to the next, but it is vital that it makes sense and flows with an individual’s lifestyle. “It’s important to question how you’ve always done it,” she advises, “I come into spaces where people will put something in a place because that’s where it has always been, but it might make sense to put it somewhere else.” PRACTICE MINDFULNESS After: Categorizing and organizing-vital to a positive flow!

Once you have completed your project, it’s important to keep it that way. The #1 culprit of disorganization is not being in the present moment.

Before: Disorganized shelves can feel chaotic.

Buskirk comments, “Often, we are so busy and preoccupied that we don’t pay attention to what we are doing.” Suddenly, a once organized space is chaotic. When we practice mindfulness by taking the time to put items back in their proper homes, these tiny choices can make a great impact. When you look around your home, ask yourself how your space makes you feel. Are you anxious? Or are you at peace? “Letting go of those pressures and negative things in your space really puts a positive aspect on your life,” she says. Decluttering can be a positive experience and one that leads to energizing not just your home, but you. Just in time for spring. For more spring cleaning tips , check out organizecharleston.com.

HOME ORGANIZING BY JEN

Email: Info@OrganizeCharleston.com Phone: 843-695-9947 14

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

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Blessing MOUNT PLEASANT'S

OF THE FLEET

FESTIVAL CELEBRATES YEARS A LOOK BACK AT ITS BEGINNINGS

ARTICLE SYDNEY HERWIG

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

he Blessing of the Fleet is a centuries-old tradition, which began in Mediterranean fishing communities to serve as

a benediction for shrimpers in hopes of a prosperous and safe shrimping season. Today, these blessings take place as far away as Australia and now, as close as Mount Pleasant. But that wasn’t always the case. Up until 1988, local shrimpers had to travel annually to

For the first two years, revenue was mainly driven by

blessings in Georgia and Florida. Then, most of the blue-col-

T-shirt sales. As the festival’s popularity grew each year,

lar community either shrimped or worked in the naval ship-

the families knew they needed help, and town officials

yard and everyone couldn’t leave town for a formal blessing.

stepped in, offering to set aside money for promoting

Ann Magwood, one of the original founders of Mount

tourism. The Town of Mount Pleasant (TOMP) continues

Pleasant’s Blessing of the Fleet, along with her then-hus-

to help each year with funding and equipment.

band, a shrimper, decided it was time the town had their

Nicole Harvey, Special Events Manager of the TOMP,

own festival. They joined forces with five other shrimping

serves as the liaison between the planning committee

families, and the rest is history.

and the town, and the Magwood family continues to play

Magwood couldn’t have imagined how successful it would become.

a vital role in coordinating the festival. In the beginning, the festival was held in the Old Village’s

“I remember those first few years waiting for drinks to go

Alhambra Hall Park. Over time, it outgrew this space, and

on sale at the store and I’d pile them up in my living room to

in 2010, the festival moved to Mount Pleasant’s Memorial

get ready for the festival,” Magwood says, laughing.

Waterfront Park, where it’s become bigger and better than ever.

According to newspaper reports, 20 boats were

“We started this as something small that we all would

blessed and over a thousand people were present for the

enjoy, “Magwood says. “It’s truly turned into something

very first festival; and all of it, orchestrated by five families.

the town is proud of and we are, too.”

CONTINUED >

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

BLESSING OF THE FLEET FESTIVAL (CON TI N U ED)

From L to R: Jennifer Magwood Ray, Wayne Magwood, Ann Magwood, and Mayor Linda Page.

Area vendors vie for a spot at the festival, where throughout the course of the day, 20,000 people will visit. Annual revenue generated from the festival goes to one or two beneficiaries. This year, 2017, those beneficiaries include two non-profits organizations; Charleston Port & Seafarers’ Society and East Cooper Meals on Wheels. “We try to choose non-profits that serve the Mount Pleasant Community. Sometimes we have one, and other years we have two,” Harvey says. During the festival there's seafood galore, a shrimp-eating contest, shag contest, live music, and countless crafts. A procession onto the pier followed by a boat parade, leads up to the main event: the blessing ceremony. Port Chaplain Father Len Williams, who has led the ceremonial blessing for over a decade, blesses the boats as they come right up to the edge of the pier while 50 or so private boats look on from the harbor. “It never hurts to have a blessing from God when you’re out at sea,” Magwood says. This year, approximately 10 boats will be blessed, which is perhaps the only thing that has shrank in size since its beginning. Although there isn't as many local commercial shrimpers in the area as there once was, it hasn’t slowed down the festival. Mount Pleasant residents are prouder than ever to be a part of something that defines the town's roots. “It’s a lot of work for all of us, but when you get there and see how much it means to the captains and the town, it’s just great,” Harvey says.

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

The 30th Annual Blessing of the Fleet will be April 30, 2017, from 11 AMÂ to 5 PM, at Mt. Pleasantâ€™s Memorial Waterfront Park. Admission is free.

Ann Magwood (R) and daughter Jennifer Magwood Ray bow for blessing prayer during the festival.

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

Get Your Game On Five pro tips you need this golf season

pring is here, and itâ€™s time to knock off the cobwebs. In preparation for golf

ARTICLE DEBORAH SLEDZIONA PHOTOGRAPHY JESS WOOD

season 2017, we reached out to Golf Professional and PGA Apprentice, Billy Ross, of Rivertowne Country Club in Mt. Pleasant to get the lowdown on how to start your season off right.

CONTINUED >

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

GET YOUR GAME ON

(CON TI N U ED)

GET BACK INTO THE SWING OF THINGS WITH THESE FIVE PRO TIPS: GET MOVING:

Although golf isn’t high intensity, once you step onto the course, you begin using muscles in ways that you normally wouldn’t. “Golf takes a toll on the back, shoulders, and legs,” Ross explains, “And the first time that you come out, you’ll be more sore and tired than you expect.” To combat this, begin a workout regime. Walking and stretching are the key components to having the flexibility and movement that you’ll need to make this season great. WARM UP:

Instead of suffering through the first game, take some time to practice before your first round this spring. “I wouldn’t go straight to the golf course,” Ross cautions, “I recommend going the day before to hit a bucket of balls.” Warming up is the key to regaining your timing and knocking off the winter rust. PRACTICE YOUR SHORT GAME:

Short game can be more difficult to master, but Ross reveals that it is the key component to scoring well and seeing improvement in your game. You can practice in several ways: tripping and putting around the green, bunker play, and hitting 100 yards in. He suggests that if you don’t have time to hit a bucket, visit the putting green instead. FOCUS ON YOUR SWING:

Timing is a key component to the swing, and swinging too fast or out of rhythm can make your game ugly. “Focus in your head that you want to swing smooth and slow,” Ross says, “Hit with 75% of your power, rather than 100%.” A ball hit with 75% power and better contact will surpass a ball hit with full power and less precision. SEEK OUT A LOCAL PROFESSIONAL:

Whether you need to set goals, build a solid foundation, or get your game back, a local golf professional can help. “Seek out one of your local professionals and inquire about lessons,” Ross suggests. Lessons are highly individualized and can take as little as thirty minutes. Not sure where to start? Rivertowne Country Club is home to numerous pros who are willing and available to help get you moving along this season. With outstanding weather and courses to be envied, Mt. Pleasant is truly a golfer’s paradise. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, this town offers something to every level of golfer. 22

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

THE "BUCKET" LIST

OF MT. PLEASANT

GOLF COURSES

Rivertowne

Country

Club:

Recognized by the South Carolina Golf Panel as “Best You Can Play” on multiple occasions and named best course in the Charleston area in 2015. This semi-private, Arnold Palmer Signature course offers marsh views and a challenging experience. 843.216.3777 Patriot’s Pointe: Rated “South Carolina Course of the Year for 2001” by the National Golf Course Owners Association. Players of all skill levels will enjoy this course. Located on the edge of the Charleston Harbor. 843.884.2727 Dunes West: Nationally acclaimed by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as a “Top 10 Resort Course”. Situated along Wagner Creek and the Wando River. Call ahead for tee times at 843.856.9000 Snee Farm: Home to a George Cobb designed championship golf course and host of the prestigious Rice Planters Amateur Golf Tournament. The 6,834 yard, 18 hole, par 72 course boasts picturesque marsh views. Call 843.884.8571 for more information. Charleston National: Rated by Golf Digest as the best non-resort golf course in the Charleston area. Offering marsh and water views, this Rees Jones designed championship course is open to the public year-round. 843.884.4653

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

nce

r p o se

k he

, Th

e B a rre C o d e ow

Healthy Lifestyle

C o u r tn

Vo ra

Raise the "Barre"

The Barre Code ladies take the street in wide second pose

t et

ev un

LOCAL FITNESS EXPERTS TELL YOU HOW

ARTICLE SYDNEY HERWIG

a n t , B a rre S o u

ON YOUR FITNESS PROGRAM

arre is rapidly becoming a favorite among fitness fanatics.

Barre South studio in action

Though it’s been around for years,

its popularity has grown significantly Barre Evolution

and its roots, ballet-based, focuses on low-impact, isometric move-

tion. We talked to the experts to get the lowdown on Barre and its benefits.

and Mount Pleasant is no excep-

Nancy Meye

Studios are popping up nationwide

allen le W

s ne r

cific targets: Thighs, seat and abs.

i on

and classes usually work three spe-

l ut

and exercise balls may be used

co Ni

Barre Evo

Light weights, resistance bands

ments to choreographed routines.

Pure Barre studio in action working the inner thighs

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

BARRE CODE

Barre Code is the newest studio in town. Find them on Facebook, barrecode.com or visit their studio on 1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd or call 843.7321805 for updates and info about on their grand opening party and other total body conditioning services they offer. “Modifications are given in every class format, making classes achievable for all levels at all times,” owner Courtney Vorachek says.

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• 24/7 Concierge Service • Relocation Assistance • Carolina One Mortgage • Vacation Rentals

BARRE SOUTH

Barre South soon celebrates a one-year anniversary and offers yoga-barre classes as well. Regulars and new clients can expect special offers including Happy Hour Class Fridays at 5:30 PM. For more info

Steve Troyano

visit barresouth.com, call 843.606.0462 or stop by their studio on 735 Coleman Blvd. Owner Brett Dunevant recommends, "Begin with at least three times a week and you'll start seeing results more quickly.”

(843) 647-0007

charlestonvipservices.com | steve.troyano@carolinaone.com 1471 Longspur Dr Mt Pleasant, South Carolina 29466

BARRE EVOLUTION

Barre Evolution offers various types of barre-based classes at their two local studios including yoga-infused and pre/post-natal classes. Check out their Facebook page for info on workshops. Visit barreevolution.com or call 843.654.9045 for locations and info. "Wear fitted athletic clothing--no shorts--and sticky socks to prevent slipping," says owners Nancy Meyer and Nicole Wallen

PURE BARRE

Pure Barre, with three local studios, offers classic barre classes and a cardio-focus class, Pure Barre Platform. The first week is free for new local clients. For locations and more info visit purebarre.com or call 843.606.0559. Owner Jen Leitch recommends five

CLEAN WATER

CHANGES

ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING. When a community gets access to clean water, it can change just about everything. It can improve health, increase access to food, grow local economies, and help kids spend more time in school.

to ten classes to get into the flow. “The technique never plateaus and gets more addictive over time. Be patient with yourself and trust the journey!”

W W W. C H A R I T Y WAT E R . O R G April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Renovate & Refine

Master Gardeners from L to R: Jennifer Lyman, Sandra Staffon and K.C. Welch

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

Full Bloom

in the Lowcountry SPRUCE UP YOUR SPRING GARDEN

ARTICLE SYDNEY HERWIG PHOTOGRAPHY JESS WOOD

e waste no time when spring arrives. Almost overnight, shorts and sandals

make their appearance, our harbor fills with more boats and the gardening gloves come off the shelf, ready for a new season of planting. For many, gardening is an activity to look forward to year after year. For others, it’s a challenge. We recruited Sandra Staffon, manager and horticulturist at Sweetgrass Ace Hardware, to offer advice to gardeners of all stages on how to partake in the planting adventure. On any given day, you’ll find the regulars stocking up on supplies and chatting with Staffon about the status of their gardens, as well as novice gardeners asking questions about soil, pots, seeds—you name it—she has the expertise when it comes to gardening. New to gardening? Staffon recommends bringing in a picture of the space or pot you’re going to use and know the following going in: How is the sun—morning versus afternoon? What are some of your favorite colors? How big is the space? Once your gardening strategy is in place, she recommends some prep work: 1) Get the soil ready. Pick up a home soil testing kit to test for NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium) and pH levels – a measure of

SWEETGRASS ACE HARDWARE

3008 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant, SC 843.884.0064

acidity of alkalinity. 2) Sketch out your garden plan—you’ll save time if you know what you need from the get-go. 3) Choose the right plants to suit your space and conditions. Shade impatiens, coleus or ferns and ivy thrive in shady spots. Dianthus, Million Bells or petunias love full sun.

CONTINUED >

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Renovate & Refine

(CON TI N U ED)

No yard? No problem. “Many opt for patio or container gardens in these instances. We have planting bags and earth boxes, which you can grow vegetables in without being directly in the ground,” Staffon says. Nemesia, Diascias and Vincas, perfect for beginners because of their ease of care, work well in containers and window boxes. At Sweetgrass, flowers, plants and succulents are abundant and the choices are limitless. If herbs, are more your style, try basil, thyme, oregano and rosemary. Citrus and/or olive trees could be the perfect focal point for your patio or backyard garden. Foodies love fresh garden vegetables and Staffon’s vast selection includes tomatoes, squash, okra and sweet potatoes. Easy Care Air Plant inside a terrarium

Annuals and perennials are budget-friendly

and great for novice gardeners—lots of color, easy to care for and the perfect option to test your gardening skills before committing to a large garden space. Smaller space dwellers can enjoy their own kind of garden inside with air plants, which require no soil and grow inside a terrarium. Zamioculacas zamifolia or ZZ plants are nearly indestructible and the perfect solution to bring garden green inside. “No matter where you plant your garden, or what plants you use, having the right soil is the most important thing you can do,” Staffon says. You'll find Staffon and her staff most any day of the week at Sweetgrass Ace Hardware, ready to help you make your garden grow. For more info call 843.884.0064 Happy gardening! Sweetgrass Garden on a sunny day

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

I LOVE God I LOVE My Country I LOVE My Family and I LOVE Dentistry ~Steve Crossland

CROSSLAND

D E N TA L A S S O C I AT I E S 929 Bowman Road, Mt Pleasant, South Carolina 29464

(843) 971-0661

Mother’s Day Photography Mini Sessions

crosslanddentalassociates.com

• Come out to join Jess Wood Photography Saturday, May 6th for Mother’s Day Photography Mini Session. • A 20 Minute session located downtown with grandmother, mother, and daughter for a truly generational Mother’s Day gift. • Up to 18 images delivered for you to view before Mother’s Day, and 6 images are included in your package to keep. • This will be truly a beautiful moment to capture for years to come.

Contact Jess Wood Photography today to set up a session time.

jesswoodphotography@gmail.com 843-269-4799 visit my website to see more of my work jesswoodphotography.com April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

April

APRIL 4 AN INTRODUCTION TO YOGA & MEDITATION WITH HEALING TREE HOLISTIC HEALTH AND YOGA MOUNT PLEASANT LIBRARY From 6:30 to 8 PM. One-hour all-levels mindful Vinyasa yoga class to increase flexibility, improve balance and promote health, followed by a 30-minute guided meditation for blissful relaxation and serenity. Participants are encouraged to bring water and their own mat. For adults and teens. For more info call 843-849-6161.

APRIL 13 CHARLESTON MUSIC FEST - CHAMBER MUSIC BY WORLD CLASS ARTISTS RECITAL HALL, SIMONS CENTER FOR THE ARTS, DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON CONCERT BEGINS AT 7:30 PM. The Charleston Music Fest is a year-round presenter of chamber music of the highest possible artistic standard and adds to

APRIL 1

the colorful cultural life of Charleston. Classical and contemporary chamber music performed by world-class artists. Ilya Kaler,

COOPER RIVER BRIDGE RUN

violin; Yuriy Bekker, violin; Natalia Khoma, cello; Volodymyr Vyn-

MOUNT PLEASANT

nytsky, piano. For more information and to purchase tickets visit

RACE BEGINS AT 8 AM.

Music.cofc.edu/concerts/Charleston-Music-Fest/.

Not just an event--an experience! The 10K race begins at 8 a.m. on Coleman Blvd. in Mt. Pleasant and ends downtown. Be a part of a 40-

APRIL 15

year tradition! For more information call 843-856-1949.

THIRD SATURDAY CRAFT SHOW

MOUNT PLEASANT

APRIL 1-9, VARIOUS TIMES

Local artisans and vendors will be displaying items for sale at the

VOLVO CAR OPEN

BiLo Palmetto Pavilion on Shelmore Blvd in Mount Pleasant near the

FAMILY CIRCLE TENNIS CENTER, DANIEL ISLAND

I'On subdivision. Various talents to include photography, jewelry, re-

The Volvo Car Open is a tournament rich in tradition. Watch world-

cycled crafting, shea butter lotions and candles plus much more. For

class tennis competitions in a beautiful stadium on Daniel Island. Fam-

more information call 843-884-0163. tcnmtp.com

ily friendly events and live music throughout the week. Various times and ticket packages. For more information visit VolvoCarOpen.com.

APRIL 2

APRIL 16 ST. ANDREWS EASTER SERVICE BOONE HALL PLANTATION

CHARLESTON HONEY & BEE EXPO

SERVICE BEGINS AT 8:30 AM

CINNEBARRE, MOUNT PLEASANT

Gates open at 7:30am - Service starts at 8:30am

Sixth Annual Charleston Honey & Bee Expo! Free Family-friendly

No admission fee to Boone Hall required to attend this service

event. Buy and taste local honey and honey cotton candy. Educa-

Event is open to the public at no charge.

tional booths, guest speakers, games, live music and food trucks with menus utilizing local honey! Pet friendly!

EVERY TUESDAY BEGINNING APRIL 4 THROUGH SEPTEMBER! 6:30 PM - 8 PM

APRIL 20-23RD, VARIOUS TIMES LOWCOUNTRY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL BOONE HALL PLANTATION

FARMERS MARKET

Festival rides, petting zoo, giant inflatables, interactive games, live

MOUNT PLEASANT

music, contests and more! Strawberry picking open!

The Mount Pleasant Farmers Market is open! Enjoy local produce,

For more information visit BooneHallPlantation.com/lowcountry_

food, live entertainment and more! Opens at 3:30 PM.

strawberry_festival.

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

APRIL 23 LOWCOUNTRY KIDS EXPO & CRAFT FAIR OMAR SHRINE TEMPLE FROM 12 PM-5 PM Lowcountry Kids Expo is a FREE Expo features local area businesses and resources focusing on health & wellness, special needs, education, child care, safety, and other important family-related topics. Also a Craft Fair! Shop with over 40 local artisans offering unique products. Free admission, free parking and free activities! Contact events@sunshinefamilyexpos.com for more information.

APRIL 24 2017 GOLF TEES TO HOUSE KEYS BENEFIT GOLF OUTING SNEE FARMS COUNTRY CLUB REGISTRATION BEGINS AT 8:30 AM; TEE OFF AT 10 A.M The Eighth Annual East Cooper Habitat for Humanity "Golf Tees to House Keys Benefit Golf Outing" at the Snee Farms Country Club. Support Habitat for Humanity by playing in the golf outing. Team prizes for first and second place low gross, longest drive and closest to pin competitions, putting contest and major hole-in-one prize. For

additional

information,

contact

Christine Pinson (843) 881-2600 ext. 201 or christine@eastcooperhabitat.org

APRIL 27 WHY ARE YOU HURTING? MOUNT PLEASANT LIBRARY FROM 6-7:30 PM Glenda Eady, LMT of Back in Touch Massage, LLC will discuss some of your daily activities that may be contributing to your overall body pain. Demonstrations of correct movements to help improve pain and the basics of therapeutic massage. Registration preferred (call 843-849-6161, press 2 for Reference), but walk-ins are welcome. CONTINUED >

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N UED)

BEGINS APRIL 29 THROUGH THE SEASON AND ENDS IN SEPTEMBER

Bishop Gadsden Welcomes

SHAGGIN' ON THE COOPER MOUNT PLEASANT MEMORIAL PARK PIER Get ready for a summer of dancing on the pier! The series kicks off on Saturday, April 29th! Dance the night away to live music. Opens at 7 pm. To purchase advance tickets or for more information on these events, call 843-7954386 or visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.

SAT APRIL 29-30, FROM 7 PM TO 12 AM HOPE JAM IV ISLE OF PALMS, THE WINDJAMMER Party with a purpose at the Windjammer for the 4th Annual Hope Jam. Live music, local celebrities, auction items, raffles and free door prizes. 100% of proceeds go to the families of children fighting big battles. Tickets $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Benefits the Ethen Richardson Foundation. For more information visit ethenrichardson.org.

APRIL 30 BLESSING OF THE FLEET AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL MOUNT PLEASANT MEMORIAL PARK PIER 11 AM - 5 PM The 30th Annual Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival is back! Be a part of a tradition; boat parade and ceremonial blessing of the shrimp/ fishing fleet, local seafood samplings from some of Mount Pleasant's best restaurants, live music,

A Life Plan Community in Charleston, South Carolina 800.373.2384 | bishopgadsden.org

a craft show, art exhibition, Shag and shrimp-eating contests, and family-friendly activities. Admission and activities are free! For more information contact: events@tompsc.com.

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

business directory BANKING

South Carolina Federal Credit Union (843) 797-8300 scfederal.org

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

Crossland Dental Associaties (843) 971-0661 crosslanddentalassociates.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Boone Hall Plantation (843) 884-4371 boonehallplantation.com Rivertowne & Snee Farm Country Clubs (843) 849-2400 rivertownecountryclub.com South of Broadway Theatre Company (843) 745-0317 southofbroadway.com Town of Mt Pleasant (843) 884-8517 tompsc.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Geiger Investments (843) 375-8700 geigerinvestments.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS HYLO Fitness, LLC (843) 732-0131 hylofitness.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Budget Blinds - Mt Pleasant (843) 856-9498 budgetblinds.com

INSURANCE

Jokoda Group (843) 270-7923 State Farm - Jack Tankersley (843) 881-8888 jacktankersley.com

MISC MEDICAL

Advanced Hearing Care (843) 352-4730 advhearing.com

JOIN US AT OUR NEW LOCATION

835 Coleman Boulevard

Mon - Sat Dinner at 5 Sunday Brunch 11-2

843.216.3832

OPENING MID-JANUARY 2017

thegranarycharleston.com #TheGranarySC

OTHER

Charleston VIP Services (843) 647-0007 charlestonvipservices.com

PET CARE

Animal Medical Center of Mt Pleasant (843) 881-5858 amcmp.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jess Wood Photography (843) 269-4799 jesswoodphotography.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE On Forty-One (843) 352-9235 onfortyone.com Pier 41 (843) 388-4433 pier41mtp.com The Americano (843) 352-2641 theamericanomp.com The Granary (843) 216-3832 thegranarycharleston.com

DINNER

Sunday - Thursday 3pm - 10pm Friday & Saturday 3pm - 11pm

LUNCH

Monday - Friday 11am - 3pm

BRUNCH

Saturday & Sunday 11am - 3pm

HAPPY HOUR

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

Monday - Friday 4pm - 7pm

Bishop Gadsden (800) 373-2384 bishopgadsden.org Right At Home-Charleston (843) 580-5120 rahcharleston.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE Vail Travel (843) 277-0400 vailtravel.cruiseholidays.com

819 COLEM AN BLVD ✺ M OUNT P LEAS A NT THEAM ERICANOM P.COM 843.352.2641

#theamericanomp

April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

THE LOVELY

Lull of Spring WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE?

ARTICLE MAYOR LINDA PAGE

ho doesn't love Spring? It

Then there's that yellow green-

starts quietly as daylight lin-

ish bane of anyone who suffers

gers a few more moments each late

from allergies: pollen dust to

afternoon. Birds start singing a little

coat our cars, patios, ponds

louder and the air is scented with the subtle aromas of blooming flowers. We find ourselves longing to open windows, have

and our lives. Spring won't last long. It will fade into even warmer days and the laziness

lunch outside, take trips to the garden shop, and buy new flip flops.

of summer. We will lose the desire to plant

Nature's paintbrush promises art; worthy displays of azalea, wiste-

flowers and instead, just sit on the patio. Fans

ria, tea olive and all varieties of southern shrubs. Neighborhoods are

are replaced with air conditioning, and the brown marsh grass

filled with sounds of children playing outside a little longer each day,

will ever so slowly become vibrant green. So, let us enjoy the

and they don't quiet until the streetlights start to glow. We hear their

meditation of Spring, the uncluttered life that it promises with

laughter through our open screened windows.

the brighter daylight that we are brought, and the blessed sense

Spring is my favorite time of year.

of renewal here on the pleasant side of the river. Bask in the

Winter has tied me down with gray days, heavier clothing and

sunlight, but don't forget to enjoy the rain. Welcome the gentle

equally heavy food, but Spring brings the Farmers Market with

showers needed for Earth's awakening from her winter slumber.

juicy plump strawberries that stain your hands, arriving first from

Please throw some caution to the wind this season. Try some

Florida, then from our Boone Hall Farms. There's asparagus and

special spring rituals: go for a bike ride; fly a kite; lie in the grass

tender mustard greens, and the last of winter's collard greens

to hunt for four leaf clovers; climb a tree; put your blanket under

begin to taste bitter as days warm up.

the stars and pretend you remember the constellations. Go to

Local playground fields crowd with young baseball players,

the pond to feed the ducks, and while you're there, try and skip

while their parents slather themselves with Skin So Soft to

a stone. Eat some jellybeans, or better yet, eat some Peeps. Go

combat the dreaded no-see-ums. My yard becomes green, not

buy a really great umbrella and then plan on getting caught in

from the sod we laid last fall, but with every type of weed you

a spring shower.

can imagine. It's the one time of year my lawn appears lush.

Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle | April 2017

And, remember don't just live. . . create a life.

IN-HOME CARE FOR A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE

843.580.5120 www.rahcharleston.com License IHCP-0106

online!

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April 2017 | Mt. Pleasant Lifestyle

MAKE EVERY MONTH COUNT! Heartworm disease is serious, don’t let your dog become infected with this fatal but 100% preventable disease. April is Heartworm Disease Awareness Month so schedule your appointment now to discuss protection!

Facts to know: 1. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes 2. Adult heartworms can cause serious harm to a dog’s heart, lungs, and certain internal organs 3. Treatment for HW disease is traumatic, risky and expensive, costing up to $1000 or more 4. Contact us immediately if you notice signs of coughing, difficulty breathing, sluggishness and less energy

Mention this ad from April 1st - April 30th and receive 3 free months of your choice of heartworm protection when you buy 9 months

Dedicated to giving your pet their best life for as long as possible

wellness care • internal medicine • dental care • emergency + critical care advanced surgery + technology • radiology • ultrasound

(843) 881-5858 | amcmp.com 958 Houston Northcutt Blvd. Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

Voted The Best of the Best

by the Moultrie News Readers Choice as Best Veterinarian Practice in East Cooper in 2016.