Charleston Events for August

<alt="ocean scene"/>Happy August! Looking for something to do this month? Want to have some fun before the kids head back to school? Here are some great events everyone will enjoy this month—and they’re happening in our backyard:

August 2, 16, 23, 30: Charleston Summer Concert Series

This family friendly evening of music is held on Saturdays on the Grand Lawn of The Sanctuary. These concerts will feature local and regional bands. Admission is free and this event is sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. Guests are welcome to bring beach chairs or blankets.

August 2 – Quiana Parlor & The Shiny Disco Ball Band

August 16 – Common Ground

August 23 – The Travis Allison Band

August 30 – Palmetto Soul

For additional information, call the Lobby Bar at 843-768-6301.

 August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29: Firefly Friday: Charleston Harbor Dolphin Sunset Sail

Set sail for a dolphin sunset sail with the Palmetto Breeze. Proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen fight against breast cancer. You’ll set sail from Shem Creek, next to Red’s Ice House on the Charleston Harbor. Admission is $35 for adults, $20 for children 12 and under. Adults will receive a free Firefly Vodka cocktail. Complimentary water and sodas are on board, and a cash bar will serve beer, wine, and margaritas.

For more information or to purchase tickets, check out the website. 

 August 8: Love Painting at The Wells Gallery

The Wells Gallery is the premier gallery of The Sanctuary Resort. Join them for their live painting event, featuring at least one of their 20 nationally renowned artists. Rick McClure and Junko Ono Rothwell will be painting in the gallery on August 8 from 1-6 pm.

For additional information, please visit the website, or call 843-576-1290. 

August 10: Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series

Celebrating its 24th year, the 5-race Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series features a .3-mile swim, 12-mile bike ride, and 5K run. This event has featured over 30,000 athletes over the years, and it has been named as one of the Top 10 Charleston Signature Sport Events.

Single Race Entry Feeds: $60/$50 Charleston County Residents

Entire Race Series: $245/$204 Charleston County Residents

For all racing information, please visit the website

August 12: Crosby Stills & Nash in Concert

Crosby Stills & Nash will be performing live at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center on August 12. Celebrating more than 4 decades since the group formed, its members continue to create music that crosses generations and endures in the music world. Its members have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

For more information and tickets, please visit the website

August 22: Loretta Lynn in Concert

Loretta Lynn has been the “rule breakin’ record setting queen of country music” for over 50 years. She continues to entertain audiences with her distinctive, ground-breaking style. Loretta Lynn will be performing her greatest hits in concert at Boone Hall Plantation. Gates open at 5 pm. Beer, wine, and food are available for purchase.

For more information regarding the series, please visit the website

August 24: 4th Annual Steel Pony Ride and Car Show

Enjoy a great car and truck show to help the Charleston Tea Plantation in its mission to provide counseling and support for our Lowcountry firefighters and their families. This event will have food, music by Eddie Bush, games for the whole family, and cars, trucks, and motorcycles on display. The event will also host a display of antique and modern fire apparatus.

For additional information, please visit the website

August 30: Shrimp and Grits Cook-Off

Finish the summer with the #1 shrimp and grits cookoff where you can eat, drink, and be a food judge! Enjoy the best of local Charleston, and taste our chefs’ interpretations of a Lowcountry classic. Fifteen renowned Charleston chefs will compete to support the Charleston Animal Society, while locals can enjoy food, drinks, and music. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door, $12 for children 12 and under. The $30 ticket price includes shrimp and grits, alcohol, live music, book signings, and more. Event runs from 7 pm to 10 pm.

To get tickets, please visit the website.

 If you know of any Charleston events happening this month, please let us know below!

 Photo Credit: Ron Cogswell

 

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!

Pooch-Friendly Places in Charleston

Dogs in Charleston Now that spring is in full bloom, why not make your days out in the Charleston sunshine even brighter by bringing along your four-legged friend?

From Bark Parks to one of Charleston’s most charming bakeries, you and you pup are in for a treat! Just take a look at this short guide to plan a day-trip on the town for you and your pup:

Isle of Palms Bark Park: Let you pooch off the leash to socialize with other happy mutts at the Isle of Palms Bark Park. The Bark Park is a safe, open place where you can meet and mingle with other dog owners while your pup parties. Remember that dog parks require current vaccinations and that you keep an eye on your friend throughout your stay!

Hampton Park: Hampton Park is one of Charleston’s largest parks and boasts a beautiful old rose collection—just the key to invigorating your senses. Take your pup for a scenic stroll along its peaceful fitness trail where you’ll see a variety of Lowcountry trees. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing day out with your fluffy companion.

Sugar Bakeshop: Sugar Bakeshop is located on Cannon Street in downtown Charleston, just off the beaten path. If you haven’t discovered this new sweet spot, it’s time to check it out! Owners Bill Bowick and David Bouffard have transplanted themselves to Charleston from New York City. And better yet, they came bearing treats to share for all. Renowned for its Lady Baltimore cupcakes and Huguenot tortes, this bite-sized bakery even has gourmet dog treats for your pampered pooch! Enjoy your dessert in the beautiful walled garden with your four-legged friend!

Holy City Brewing: Holy City Brewing is one of Charleston’s favorite breweries—and your dog will love it, too.Take a tour of the brewery, and enjoy a hoppy German pilsner in the Holy City Brewing’s tasting room with Fido at your side!

Inn at Middleton Place: Visiting a quaint South Carolina bed and breakfast can be even more fun if your best friend can join, too!Luckily, the Inn at Middleton Place isn’t only a favorite local Bed & Breakfast—it’s also pet-friendly for companions under 50 pounds. Located on a scenic plantation with beautiful landscaping and views, the Inn will steal your heart with its endless hospitality. The breakfast buffet is one of renown, and you can enjoy long walks around the historic grounds with your pooch.

 

For a complete list of public venues where you can bring your pooch along, click here.

Exploring Charleston’s Gardens

 

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

photo courtesy of Magnolia Plantation and Gardens website.

Charleston’s trademarks are its Antebellum history and Lowcountry beauty. And when you experience its many plantations and gardens, you get the best of both worlds!

Spring is the perfect time to take in Charleston’s flourishing natural world, starting with these historic and breathtaking gardens. Pack a lunch, and bring the family along!

Boone Hall Gardens: Boone Hall is one of the most stunning sites Charleston has to offer. Between its sprawling mansion, live oak trees, and Spanish moss draped paths, the entrance to this charming plantation alone is worth the trip! Take a self-guided garden tour, and see the many various plants, flowers, and trees that are currently growing in the beautiful gardens on the front lawn. Be sure to stop and smell the gorgeous antique roses that are over 100 years old.

Cypress Gardens: Travel to Berkeley County’s Cypress Gardens for the utmost adventure and wildlife in one outing! Visitors from all over the country come to experience Cypress Gardens’ magical grounds, gardens, greenhouse, and swamparium. Enjoy picturesque views along 3.5 miles of walking and hiking trails, which loop through the swamp and gardens. The peak azaleas bloom by the month’s end, and while you take in the beautiful wildflowers, you can also spot yellow-throated warblers, red-shouldered hawks, and Carolina chickadees.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation has the oldest public gardens in America, opening its doors to visitors in 1870. The gardens at Magnolia Plantation are of such beauty and variety that they have brought tourists from around the world to view them. Today there are thousands of flowers to take in—from camellias, daffodils, and azaleas to countless other species in bloom year round.

Hampton Plantation State Park: Tucked away among live oaks and magnolias, Hampton Plantation State Historic Siteis home to the remains of a colonial-era rice plantation. Take in the splendor and history of this scenic site during an easy hike along the nature trail loop. You’ll take in several ecosystems and discover how the landscape and wildlife changed over the 250 years this land has been known as Hampton Plantation.

Which of Charleston’s unforgettable gardens is your favorite to visit?

Local Breweries in Charleston

With St. Patty’s Day just around the corner, there’s no time like the present to experience the hops, malts, and flavors of Charleston’s signature brews.

  • Holy City Brewing: Holy City Brewing is one of Charleston’s favorite venues. Located on 4155 C Dorchester Road, their year-rounds are true classics, a hoppy German pilsner and a porter that are refreshing in any season. Specialty beers run the gamut from IPA, to stout, to Belgian Strong Pale Ale, to bacon porter. Holy City Brewing’s tasting room is a seamless part of the brewery, where you’re welcome to relax, taste what’s new, or take a tour. Best of all, their tasting room is pet-friendly, so bring your pooch along for the fun!

 

  • Palmetto Brewery: Owner and head brewer Ed Falkenstein has been cranking out a colorful variety of pale and dark ales at the Palmetto Brewing Co. since 1994. The company was the first microbrewery to open in Charleston since Prohibition. Falkenstein and his small team of brewers use fresh barley malts and hops in every brew. Next time you’re out on the town, keep an eye peeled for Palmetto’s Espresso Porter. The robust, full-bodied flavor comes from the dark roasted malts and is accented with a coffee espresso roast by Charleston Coffee Roasters.

 

  • Southend Brewery: Southend Brewery and Smokehouse, located in the historic Wagener Building on East Bay Street, has a haunted past that only adds to the incredible flavor of your visit. The gorgeous building has a three-story atrium housing large copper and stainless steel brew tanks in which they brew six craft beers. Try the Love Me Two Times Blonde, their signature ale with a subtle hop finish, which pairs perfectly with Southend’s Lowcountry cuisine.

 

  • Mooka Brewery: Located on 389 Huger Street, Mooka Brewery creates a variety of brews that utilize local ingredients, unique styles, and seasonal flavors. Sample their Sour D Belgian Ale for a unique flavor experience. This beer is tart, crisp, ultra smooth, and available year-round.

Have you sampled any of these Charleston favorites?

 

Does Fat Necrosis Make It More Difficult To Detect Cancerous Tumors?

Will a fatty necrosis make it more difficult to detect any new formations of cancer?

 The following question is answered by  Richard Kline of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.

Q: I am a  7-year Stage I breast cancer survivor.   I’ve had lumpectomy and radiation, with no chemotherapy.

Three years ago, had a bilateral breast reduction. Six months later, developed nipple retraction and a mass. General surgeon (who follows me for BC) was concerned at first and biopsied it twice. The results were negative.  Mammograms have been reported as within normal limits.  

My plastic surgeon (who did the reduction) would like to have yearly MRI’s because he said eventually, this mass will start to calcify, most likely keeping me flagged for biopsies. The general surgeon disagrees and feels it’s been biopsied twice and he would not do any more unless my mammogram changed.

My concern is that this fatty necrosis will hide any new cancer that may form. It’s pretty big area approx. 7.5cmx5cm.  My new internist is not happy with this area and wants me to see another surgeon. So my question is: will this make seeing any new cancer form harder? Is my risk for more necrosis higher if I have it removed since this was the radiated breast and that is what caused the necrosis in the first place? My original surgeon suggested a mastectomy to be 100% sure that nothing would ever get missed. I will be seeing new surgeon next week and would like to have some ideas before I go. I have no problem with another lumpectomy or even a mastectomy if needed.

 

A:  I’m sorry to hear you’re having so much trouble.

It’s outside of my area of expertise to advise you whether calcifications from fat necrosis can mask a tumor recurrence, but I just called our breast imaging radiologist and asked. She said fat necrosis definitely makes imaging “more challenging,” and you may require ultrasound and/or MRI in addition to mammography in the future, should you choose to leave the mass in place.

I CAN advise you that the risk for wound healing problems (including more fat necrosis) is certainly higher in a radiated breast, so the answer to the second part of your question is yes, you could end up with additional fat necrosis after surgery.

Even a mastectomy will not reduce your risk of another cancer to zero, as some breast cells are frequently left behind, but it will reduce your risk significantly. We would be happy to put you in touch with one of our surgical oncologists who specializes in breast disease, if you would like to get more specific information about risk reduction.

Hope this helps, and feel free to call or email with any more questions.

 

Richard M. Kline, Jr., MD

Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

 Have a question about breast reconstruction you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask us!

Charleston Fashion Week

Charleston Fashion Week

Photo by Juan Fonseca.

From March 19–23, 2013, under the tents in Marion Square, experience world-class fashion that only Charleston could present.

Charleston Fashion Week is a five-night celebration featuring more than 35 runway shows, the Emerging Designer Competition: East, the Spring Bridal Show, and the Rock the Runway Model Competition. The fashion extravaganza showcases emerging designer and model talent, making this show a true “pathway to New York.”

This annual fashion event intertwines with the rich culture of downtown Charleston, creating the perfect atmosphere for inspiration, artistry, and awe. Accredited with launching the careers of numerous up-and-coming fashion designers and models, this multimedia event showcases high-end runway shows, an interactive entertainment, chic after-parties, and press events.

Since its founding in 2007, Charleston Fashion Week has added new flare to the fashion scene in the Lowcountry each year. Today, CFW is one of the premier fashion weeks in North America. Last year, Charleston Fashion Week hosted approximately 7,500 event attendees and attracted over 49 million media impressions. Thanks to the popularity of the event and the people it drew from all over the world, Charleston’s economy enjoyed a$2.4 million boost last year. As a result, Charleston’s fashion, design, and retail communities continue to grow and thrive.

Also, in the past, CFW partnered with charities such as the Center for Women, Lowcountry AIDS Services and MUSC Children’s Hospital.

Check out the not-to-miss events below:

2013 Charleston Fashion Week® Events:
• March 19-23, 2013: Runway Shows
• March 22, 2013: Rock The Runway Model Competition
• March 23, 2013: Charleston Weddings magazine’s Spring Bridal Show
• March 23, 2013: Emerging Designer Finals

Ready to get your catwalk on? Purchase your tickets to one of Charleston’s most famous events here

Can I Have Reconstruction Surgery Even If My Radiation Treatments Damaged My Chest Area?

Are there natural methods of breast reconstruction surgery?
The following question is answered by Dr. Richard Kline of  The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.

In 2001, I had to have my implant removed because I had to a recurrence of breast cancer. After chemo, my 36 treatments of radiation did considerable damage to my chest area. I did have a latissimus flap and it was a total failure! I look like a road map to California. I had both of my implants removed in 2007 because of infection that went into my right implant.

Sometimes I think I might be okay without breasts, but not really. I wear prosthetics, but they are uncomfortable. Is there any way to get a successful reconstructive surgery with one of the natural ways of reconstruction?

 

Natural Breast Reconstruction almost certainly represents your best chance for a successful reconstruction, even with your past unfortunate experiences. If you have adequate donor tissue in your abdomen, buttocks, or thighs, there is an excellent chance that it can be used for your reconstruction. Your past surgeries and history of radiation may affect the final appearance of your breasts due to effects on your skin, but they usually have no impact on our ability to successfully transfer your donor tissue using microvascular techniques. Contact us and we can talk more about your specific situation.

 

Richard M. Kline, MD
Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

 

Have a question about breast reconstruction you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask us!

Art Around Charleston

Image Taken From: www.marymartinart.com

It’s no surprise that Charleston, a city brimming with diversity, life, and culture, is home to some of the most revered art galleries in the country. And with gallery hops and art openings, Charleston offers endless opportunities to become involved in the thriving art scene—and get a firsthand look at the latest local and national talent.

If you’re looking for a night fueled by culture and conversation, here are some of our favorite local art galleries to visit:

  • Mary Martin Gallery: Visit Mary Martin Gallery to experience new artwork hand selected for its unique perspective and innovative medias. This eclectic gallery doesn’t limit their exhibits to any one style of work—instead, they feature art for its originality as well as beauty. Located in the heart of Charleston’s historic French quarter, the Mary Martin Gallery has truly become a destination for both local and national art collectors. The offerings range from realistic to abstract, from linear expressionism to intuitive. In addition, they have sculpture of all types, water fountains, glass, wood, and jewelry.
  • Courtyard Art Gallery: Experience the artistic vision of the Courtyard Art Gallery, one of the oldest co-op art galleries in Charleston, South Carolina. Located on East Bay Street in the historic French Quarter district, Courtyard Gallery showcases paintings, photography, paper sculpture, pottery, jewelry, walking sticks, stained glass, and more.
  • The Sylvan Gallery: The Sylvan Gallery is renowned for its distinctive exhibits featuring nationally and internationally recognized painters and sculptors. The gallery focuses on twentieth and twenty-first century representational art. Located at 171 King Street in Charleston, the gallery is in the heart of the antique and art district of our historic city and is a must-see gallery for art-lovers everywhere.
  • Robert Lange Studios: Gallery owners Megan and Robert Lange provide a forum for art based on individual, subjective style and awareness. Throughout the years, their dedication has earned the gallery a reputation for consistently featuring new and interesting artists whose imagination and distinctive personal approach continues to inspire viewers and collectors. Stop by 2 Queen Street now through February 22 to catch Robert Lange Studios’ current exhibit, Karen Ann Myers’ “Mouthful.”

Have you had the chance to visit any of these fine art galleries in Charleston? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

Alfresco Date Spots in Charleston

Marion Square

Valentine’s Day is only a day away—and you didn’t make reservations for you and your honey downtown. No matter—you and your partner prefer to keep things simple.

Yet there’s still time to add a little romantic spontaneity to your Valentine’s Day with an open-air picnic. Throw on a jacket, pack a basket of your favorite treats, pick up a bottle of champagne, and head to any of these beautiful Lowcountry parks for a memorable, low-key celebration:

  • Marion Square: Head to this green space in downtown Charleston, bounded by Calhoun, Meeting, Tobacco, and King Streets. The public square, which hosts the local farmer’s market in summer months, is the perfect place to set up a romantic picnic on the green. Take in the square’s historic monuments while you enjoy some alone time with your sweetheart.
  • Alhambra Hall: On Middle Street, in Mount Pleasant, find your way to Alhambra Hall, a scenic and quiet retreat fully equipped with picnic tables and lots of shade. This is the perfect spot for the couple out with the kids, as there’s a playground with baby swings, a sandbox, and plenty more to keep the occupied while you steal a kiss or two.
  • Angel Oak:Jaunt on over to Angel Oak Road in Johns Island for your romantic outing. Angel Oak, the famous tree for which the park is named, is one of the oldest living things (natural or manmade) east of the Rockies. Throw your blanket down under the historic tree, and enjoy the natural beauty around you. The park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

    Angel Oak, Johns Island

  • Brittlebank Park: For downtown picnickers, look no further than Brittlebank Park on Lockwood Drive.With picnic tables at the ready and an open field to set the adventurous ambiance, you and your main squeeze can take in the sunset by the Ashley River. If you’re lucky, you may even catch the Ashley River bridges opening to let some big boats through!

What are your big plans for Valentine’s Day? Share in the comments section below!