Worship in Pink – October 25 – 27, 2013!

Also known as Pink Sunday, Worship in Pink is a free education and outreach program for faith-based communities nationwide. Pink Sunday is the time to celebrate those who have survived and those who are battling breast cancer.

Registration for Pink Sunday has closed, but we found some ideas to celebrate on the Lowcountry Komen site at http://www.komenlowcountry.org/about-us/news/. You can also download breast exam cards and educational information.

    •  Ask everyone to wear “pink.”
  • Create a Wall of Hope with the names of survivors and those who have lost their battle with breast cancer.
  • Encourage women to take the COMMITMENT CHALLENGE!
  • Ask a survivor to share her/his story during the service so others may benefit from her/his experience.
  • Have the health minister present the facts about breast cancer in the community.
  • Celebrate survivors in your congregation with pink flowers or pink ribbons.
  • Celebrate the survivors and co-survivors in your congregation with a candle lighting ceremony. Start with breast cancer survivors, and then include all cancer survivors.
  • Honor those who have lost their battle with breast cancer with a moment of silence.
  • Rejoice and praise with your congregation in the advances that have been made to fight breast cancer and save lives.
  • Conduct a candlelight prayer service.
  • Host a Pink Party (reception).
  • Have a contest for the most “Pinked” person.
  • Have a special collection for the Lowcountry Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Funds are used for our mission, grants, and outreach work.
  • Consider donations to the Lowcountry Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® in lieu of flowers for celebrations or bereavement requests. Donations may be made online at: http://www.komenlowcountry.org/
  • Make your own or order pink pins or other merchandise from our website (http://www.shopkomen.com) to provide to survivors or your congregation.

What other ideas can you come up with for your group or congregation?

 

Race for the Cure®!

It’s that time of year again–where we stand up and run for the cure!

That’s right–it’s time for the 20th Annual Susan G. Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure®!

When:  Saturday, October 19, 2013

Where: Family Circle Cup, Daniel Island, South Carolina

Who: YOU!

How much: Visit http://www.komenlowcountry.org/komen-race-for-the-cure for more details on dates and fees.

Important Dates:

Wednesday, October 16th – Online registration ends @ noon

Thursday, October 17th – Sponsor booth setup noon–7 p.m.

Friday, October 18th – In-person registration / pickup, expo open from 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

 

Race Day!

7:00 a.m. Expo, Sponsor Village, and Survivor Tent Open

8:00 a.m. Survivor Celebration

8:30 a.m. Fun Run/Walk

9:15 a.m. 5k Run Timed

10:00 a.m. Awards Ceremony

(No rollerblades or pets, please. Strollers, please line up at the back.)

According to the Komen website, 75% of what you pay or raise stays in the Lowcountry service area to provide “breast health education, screening and diagnostics, and survivor support services.” The remaining 25% supports Komen’s national programs.

In 2012, the Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure® raised over $800,000. This year, the goal is a million dollars, and they need your help. (While your registration fee is not tax deductible, anything additional you donate is.)

If you’d rather Sleep In for the Cure, visit this link to register:

http://www.komenlowcountry.org/komen-race-for-the-cure/sleep-in-for-the-cure/

A brief history of the Race for the Cure® from the Lowcountry website:

“Susan G. Komen fought breast cancer with her heart, body, and soul. Throughout her diagnosis, treatments, and endless days in the hospital, she spent her time thinking of ways to make life better for other women battling breast cancer instead of worrying about her own situation. Moved by Susan’s compassion for others and commitment to making a difference, Nancy G. Brinker promised her sister that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer.

Though Susan lost her battle with the disease, her legacy lives on through the work of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, the organization Nancy started in her honor.

The Lowcountry Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure—along with those who generously support us with their talent, time, and resources—is working to better the lives of those facing breast cancer in our community. We join more than 100,000 breast cancer survivors and activists around the globe as part of the world’s largest and most progressive grassroots network fighting breast cancer. Through events like the Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure®, we have invested more than $5.5 million in local breast health and breast cancer awareness projects in 17 counties.”

Click here to join us on the 19th!

 

Join Us for Beauty & the Beast at SOA!

We’re one of the sponsors of the Charleston County School of the Arts (SOA) Vocal Department presentation of Beauty & the Beast, which runs October 24 through Nov 2 at the Rose Maree Myers Theatre at SOA. Each night, the show runs from 7p.m. to 9 p.m. We hope you’ll be able to join us and support SOA!

SOA was founded in 1995 by Rose Maree Myers, who also founded the Ashley River Creative Arts Elementary School. It’s located in North Charleston, and it was named the #2 Best High School in South Carolina by U.S. News and World Report. When it was founded, there were only two grades, sixth and seventh. Eventually more grades were added, and today SOA is a grades 6–12 school.

SOA’s curriculum focuses on problem solving skills and creativity, which gives their students an opportunity to grow and learn in their own ways. They learn to develop high levels of creativity, perseverance, intellect, and cooperation with others—skills that not all middle school and high school students learn.

This is a truly special school!

For tickets to Beauty and the Beast, please visit the SOA website.

From the principal, Shannon Cook:

“Charleston County School of the Arts (SOA) offers students rich and intensive instruction in eight art majors in a unique sixth through twelfth grade setting. Students may apply and audition for two areas, and once accepted into a major, spend one-fourth of their day with dynamic teachers in that art area. Art majors include instrumental band, creative writing, dance, piano, string orchestra, theater, visual arts, and vocal music. SOA’s students excel at the local, state and national level, earning awards, scholarships, and the respect of audience members, peers, and patrons of the arts.

Students also participate in an appropriately challenging academic curriculum that includes college preparatory, honors, and Advanced Placement courses. Clubs, community service, and unique school events tailored to meet the interests of young artists, provide additional opportunities for expression and involvement. We want our students to maximize their potential and then find out how their art can impact the world around them. At SOA we believe art makes a difference!”

For more info on SOA, visit their website at http://soa.ccsdschools.com/.


Join Us for the 2013 Scottish Highland Games

The 42nd Anniversary of the Charleston Scottish Highland Games will be Saturday, September 21, 2013 at Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant.

The Honored Clan is MacKenzie, and the Honored Guest is the 5th Earl of Cromartie.

Sponsored by the Scottish Society of Charleston, the field opens to clans, participants, and visitors at 7 a.m. All events are held regardless of weather. Tickets are $4 for children aged 6–12 and $17 for adults. Parking is $5. A scotch tasting will be held on Thursday, September 19, and costs $35. On Friday, September 20, the Tartan Ball will be held, which requires a Copper Sponsorship package for one. The fee is $50.

Over 50 clans will be in attendance, including Clan MacFie, Clan Ramsay, Clan MacDougall, and Clan Ogilvie. Games include 28 lb. and 56 lb. Clachneart, 56 lb. Weight Throw, 56 lb. Weight Toss for Height, 22 lb. Hammer Throw, Sheaf Toss, and Caber Toss.

Typically, over 20 bands attend the Games and play traditional Scottish music such as the 2/4 March. The Scottish Country Dancing competition is a popular part of the Games, and it dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Entertainment includes Smithfield Fair, Colin Grant-Adams, and Rathkeltair.

Other events include a Border Collie demonstration, Irish Hurling exhibition, face painting, Highland wrestling, Scottish crafts, and Build-A-Kilt.

For more information on the Games, visit http://charlestonscots.org/index.html.

Nature Walks in the Charleston Area

Charleston Area WalksThe beautiful Charleston area is home to a variety of natural settings and habitats. Explore the wonder of Charleston with two of our favorite nature walks and tours. And often the walking tours involve a boat ride too!

Morris Island Tours

If you enjoy hunting shells and exploring islands, this is the tour for you. Morris Island may look like a neglected shell of an island, but you’ll be fascinated by its rich history (including Blackbeard the Pirate and Civil War blockades).

You’ll be surprised by how few people wander around the island, so you’ll feel like you have it all to yourself. Expect to find sand dollars and conch shells, and if you’re lucky, you might find a piece of Morris Island history. Wildlife abounds, and you’ll feel as if you’ve gone back in time.

Bulls Island Ferry and Eco Tour

Join Captain William Christianson on board one of three ferries to Bulls Island. The Captain is a marine biologist, so during the half-hour trip to the island, you’ll discover the beauty of turtles, a variety of sea birds, and dolphins, among other species. You’ll gather round the touch table and hear about the artifacts, which typically include skulls and bones of the native animals.

When you arrive at Bulls Island, you’ll be greeted by miles of beach and trails, just waiting for you to explore. Take your time and enjoy the walk, or bike along the paths. Turkey Walk Trail is a particular favorite of guests. Don’t forget to check out the observatories throughout the island.

Have you been on either of these tours, and what did you enjoy most?

 

Charleston’s Five Beach Towns

Whether you’re taking the kids out for sandcastles and swimming lessons, or your friends need a day suntanning with gossip and a good book, Charleston beaches have something for everyone. We’re known for gentle waves, fun beachside events and friendly neighborhoods, but how do you choose which one to visit?

Check out our short guide to plan a day-trip on the coast:

Kiawah Island: Known as one of the most popular southeast wedding destinations, Kiawah Island is all about Southern comfort and luxury. Not only can you enjoy ten miles of untouched beaches, the family can explore forests, sand dunes and enjoy wildlife. The Island is mainly known for its impressive golf course and resort, so if you get sick of the surf, you can trade it for turf. Coastal Living Magazine recently voted Kiawah the “Happiest Seaside Town.”

Isle of Palms: Six of the seven miles that make up Isle of Palms are accessible beaches, which are used by a number of year-round residents as well as thousands of visitors and guests. Many of the beach houses on the island are available for rent. It’s quiet and perfect for families who want a subdued getaway. Rent or bring some bikes and explore the island through its many bike paths!

Folly Beach: Folly Beach is where the action is! Catch some waves at the most popular surfing spot in the area. But note: From May 15th to Sept. 15th surfing is prohibited from 10 am to 6 pm from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West, known as the swimming zone. From September 16th to May 14th, surfing is allowed in any area except surfing is always prohibited 200′ from the fishing pier. Build sandcastles and enjoy the sun on these wide beaches. If you want to escape the coastline for lunch, break with a picnic and check out the pier or gaze at the Morris Island Lighthouse in the late afternoon.

Seabrook Island: Exclusive and serene, Seabrook is a privately-owned island for members and their guests to enjoy. That’s right, you have to join the Seabrook Island Club to gain access to its amenities, but it’s worth it. Miles of pristine beaches, gorgeous dunes, old live oaks and more await. You can enjoy ultimate comfort, plus switch between playing in the waves and playing in the pool.

Sullivan’s Island: Sullivan’s Island is a truly day-trip spot, with hardly any vacation rentals and no hotels available. A serene and casual neighborhood, it offers the best in family-oriented activities. Bring your buckets, bikes and blankets for an all-day sun fest! Be sure to pack a cooler, too. This island is so quiet, it only offers a handful of restaurants. You’ll feel like you live there!

Remember to check beach guidelines and rules before you travel!

The Sound of Charleston

From the end of August through the end of the year, The Sound of Charleston takes place at the Circular Congregational Church at 150 Meeting Street. Charleston has a unique musical heritage, and you’ll hear all the music that is Charleston, from Civil War tunes to gospel, jazz, and Gershwin.

The performers include jazz and blues singer Ann Caldwell, conductor of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra Charlton Singleton, pianists Micah McLaurin and Irwin Jiang, and soprano D’Jaris Whipper-Lewis. Other artists include American folk musician Bart Saylor, keyboardist Ghadi Shayban, singer and actress Anna Booman, pianist John Tecklenburg, and saxophonist Lonnie Hamilton, III.

The Sound of Charleston is the 4th ranked Charleston attraction on TripAdvisor.com. Concerts take place weekly at 7 p.m., but the day of the week varies, so be sure to check the website for dates and times. Tickets are available online, at Bulldog Tours, at any Charleston Visitor Center, at many local hotels, and at the door. Ticket prices are adults, $28; seniors and military, $26; students $16; and children 12 and under, free.

For more information, visit the Charleston Convention & Visitors site.

The Charleston Farmers Market

Every Saturday through December 21, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., venture to King and Calhoun Streets to the Charleston Farmers Market. Local vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables, breakfast and lunch foods, and arts and crafts.

Perfect for the entire family, entertainment abounds, and you’ll have your choice of over 100 different vendors. Fresh produce ranges from raspberries to lima beans and sweet corn to mulberries. Other foods, such as shrimp, eggs, and milk are available. Because the Market runs through the end of the year, plan to stop in once or twice a month so you don’t have to buy extra produce. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to buy as you need it.

The artisans who frequent the Market are a plethora of amazingly talented people. Thomas Bennett will do your caricature, or Ciana Pullen will do a portrait as you stand or from a photograph.

You can find sweetgrass basketry, handmade soaps and candles, handcrafted furniture, garden art, and jewelry of all types. You’ll also enjoy seeing metal sculpture, clay designs, pet treats, clothing, purses and accessories, and wooden bowls.

The entertainment at the Market is not to be missed. Scheduled entertainment includes:

  • August 17 – Volcanoes in the Kitchen
  • August 24 – David Higgins
  • August 31 – Les Amis
  • September 7 – Dance FX
  • September 14 – Fiddlin’ Marci & Roger Bellow
  • September 21 – Volcanoes in the Kitchen
  • September 28 – MOJA Heritage Day Entertainment

To get the most from the Market, take your time and be open to looking at as many booths as possible. You never know what might catch your eye. Be sure to stay hydrated and fed, and enjoy!

For more information, visit the Charleston Visitors Bureau site, or the Charleston Farmer’s Market site.

Summer Concert Series at the Sanctuary and More

Summer wouldn’t be complete without the concert series on the Grand Lawn of the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Every Saturday evening, beginning at 5 p.m. a well-known regional performer takes the stage to entertain all ages. The concerts are complimentary and sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island.

If you go to a concert, BYOC (bring your own chair). No outside coolers or alcoholic beverages are allowed, as drink service is available.

The dates for the rest of the summer include:

Saturday, July 13

Palmetto Soul, a band that plays a variety of tunes from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and today.

Saturday, July 20

Coastal Breeze Band, an eclectic group that plays retro, soul, pop, and Motown songs from the 70’s through the 90’s.

Saturday, July 27

17 South Band, which plays swing, jazz, rhythm and blues, Motown, and beach music from the last 50 years.

Saturday, August 3

Palmetto Soul

Saturday, August 10

The Sneakers, who play funk and jazz as well as beach and blues.

Saturday, August 17

Common Ground, a folk and bluegrass band sure to please everyone.

Other summer concerts include Music on the Green Summer Concert Series at Freshfields Village, Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruises, and The Sound of Charleston.

Blues and BBQ Harbor Cruises

A two-hour cruise from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Thursday night from April through October, the Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruise series features live music from blues bands and a Home Team BBQ buffet.

The dates in July are the 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th.

The cost is $39.95 per person, tax included.

Sponsored by Charleston Harbor Tours and The Bridge 105.5, the cruises take place aboard the Carolina Belle. As you would expect from Charleston’s finest BBQ restaurant, the food is delicious: smoked chicken, pulled pork, baked beans, coleslaw, and macaroni and cheese.

Local favorite Shrimp City Slim (Gary Erwin) plays while you take in the sights of Charleston, including Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown, the revered St. Michael’s Episcopal Church,the Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, and Forts Johnson and Moultrie.

You’ll meet at the Charleston Maritime Center near Concord and Calhoun before boarding the Carolina Belle. Find out more about the Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruises by calling 843-722-1112 or 888-224-5037, or visit the Charleston Harbor Tours site here.