GROUNDWORK GOODWILL Benefitfocus supporting wellness in the workplace PAY IT FORWARD CATALYST Advocacy efforts for Charleston Moves are paving the way for area cyclists and alternative transit options Everyone scores a home run with the Charleston Miracle League From beaches to the bridge, top choices for inexpensive outdoor activities V O L U M E 2 N U M B E R 2 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC. Please recycle this publication
PAY IT FORWARD Everyone scores a home run with the Charleston Miracle League GOODWILL Benefitfocus supporting wellness in the workplace CATALYST Advocacy efforts for Charleston Moves are paving the way for area cyclists and alternative transit options VOLUME 2 NUMBER 2 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC. GOING THE EXTRA MILE WITH MEREDITH NELSON GROUNDWORK From beaches to the bridge, top choices for inexpensive outdoor activities Please recycle this publication PAGE 16
Transcript
PAY IT FORWARDEveryone scores a homerun with the CharlestonMiracle League
GOODWILLBenefitfocus supportingwellness in theworkplace
CATALYSTAdvocacy efforts for CharlestonMoves are paving the way forarea cyclists and alternativetransit options
V O L U M E 2 N U M B E R 2
THE
OFFI
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PUB
LICA
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OF
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LEAG
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, IN
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GOING THE EXTRA MILEWITH MEREDITH NELSON
GROUNDWORKFrom beaches to the bridge,top choices for inexpensiveoutdoor activities
Please recycle this publication
PAGE16
Tempt Your Taste Buds...
and Feed the Hungry!
To order, call or click today! 843-763-5284 or www.jlcharleston.org.Also available in various retail locations throughout the area.
When you purchase cookbooks from the Junior League of Charleston, Inc., you not onlyreceive award-winning tried and true recipes, but you support your community.
Proceeds from the sale directly benefit the following Junior League of Charleston community service programs:
Lowcountry Food Bank • Gibbes Museum of Art • Trident Literacy AssociationRonald McDonald House • MUSC's Lean Team • Louis's KidsChildren's Museum of the Lowcountry
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"With Charleston Receipts...I'veturned out comfort dishes thathave never failed."
- Michelle Green, Food & Wine magazine
843.402.4775PORTERGAUD.edu
With ever-expanding community projects, 60 clubs to join and daily classroom discussions, your child is sure to grow. And with $1,089,000 in financial aid, we can help you make it a reality. Apply today. INVEST IN THEIR LIFETIME.
{A FUTURE NO DOORFRAME CAN MEASURE.}
CAUSE
CAUSEV O L U M E 2 N U M B E R 2
2 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
FROM
THE P
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Dear Friends,Spring is my favorite time of year in Charleston. The gardens come into
their glory, the market area hums with activity as tourists and residentsenjoy dinner al fresco, the scent of Carolina Jasmine perfumes the air andpeople appear energized and renewed.
The warmer weather attracts more bikers and walkers to the RavenelBridge, the beaches and area parks. Garden tours delight participants.Yet despite the fact that we live in an area that caters to an active lifestyle,so many of our residents, children in particular, are facing serious healthissues due to lack of exercise, improper nutrition and a lack of educationregarding healthy lifestyle choices.
In this issue of CAUSE, we profile the work of area organizationsdedicated to ensuring a healthier lifestyle for our residents. From theadvocacy and planning work of Charleston Moves to treatment programssuch as the Junior League’s current work mentoring obese children,there are a number of local service providers working to address allfacets of the issue.
Also featured is Meredith Nelson, owner of PrimeTime Fitness, whoraises money for area non-profits through innovative exercise challenges;Benefitfocus, a company motivating its employees to lead more active,healthier lifestyles; and the inspiring work of the Gavalas-KolankoFoundation raising money through the James Island Connector Run toprovide higher education scholarships for children with disabilities.
I hope you enjoy this latest issue of CAUSE, and I hope it inspires youto lend your time, talents and support in creating a healthier you and ahealthier community for all of us.
Warmly,
Holland WilliamsPresidentJunior League of Charleston, Inc.
Letters to thepresident about this issue of CAUSE areboth accepted andencouraged. If you
would like to write thepresident about this
publication or its contents, feel free tosubmit letters, Attn:CAUSE Letter to the
President, by email tocauseeditor@jlcharleston.
org, or by mail to 51 Folly Road,
Charleston, SC 29407.
Junior League of Charleston, Inc.51 Folly Road,
Charleston, SC 29407
Holland Williams, JLC President
Shelley Julian, JLC President Elect
CAUSE EDITORS:
Mary C. Mitchell, Editor
Liane Kerr, Editor
Selena Kaufman, Assistant Editor
CAUSE COMMITTEE:
Clay Gilbert, Amy Hill, Elizabeth Kelly,
Lisa Marie Womble Rehm, Pendleton Shiflett,
Meredith Siemens, Catherine Williams
CAUSE EDITORIAL BOARD:
Emily Abedon, Charleston Magazine, Contributor
Tracy Blanchard, Former President, JLC
Dorothy Thaxton, JLC Director of Marketing
Richard Hendry, Coastal Community Foundation,
Vice President of Programs
Chris Kerrigan, Trident United Way, President
Allison Leggett, Former President, JLC
Amy Riley, JLC Community Project Development
Kitty Robinson, Former President, JLC and
Historic Charleston Foundation, Executive Director
Colleen Troy, Touchpoint Communications
PUBLISHING & DESIGN BY:
Parkshore Centre1 Poston Road, Suite 190,
Charleston, SC 29407843-747-0025
Richard Barry, President
Warren Darby, VP of Operations
Ashley E. Arnsdorff, Publication Services Director
Bob Durand, Senior Art Director
Ali Lorenzana, Editorial Services
For information on advertising opportunities please call Richard Barry at 843-746-2246
Copyright 2009 by the Junior League of Charleston, Inc.All rights reserved. No part of this publication may bereproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means,electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,recording, or by any information storage and retrievesystem, without the express written permission ofthe Junior League of Charleston, Inc.
Editorial Mission:In carrying out its mission to promote voluntarism and to serve as a
catalyst for positive change, the Junior League of Charleston, Inc. is pleasedto offer this comprehensive view of our community’s needs, organizationsworking to meet those needs, businesses and individuals supportingcharitable endeavors and opportunities for area residents to get involved andto maximize their volunteer experience.
Premier Partners• Seven Farms Road, LLC
Community Partners• Dixon Hughes, PLLC • Jim ‘n Nick’s • United Smith Dray Line
• Uricchio, Howe, Krell, Jacobson, Toporek, Theos & Keith
Patron• Charleston County Recycling Center
• Holland and Rhys Williams • UNITS Mobile Storage
Thank you to our 2008 Sponsors
Proceeds from the Whale of a Sale support the Junior League’s current community projects: Boys and Girls Club Reading Soul Mates Program, Children’s Museum ofthe Lowcountry Free Friday Family Fests, Gibbes Museum of Art Community Days, Louie’s Kids, Lowcountry Food Bank and Ronald McDonald House.
CAUSE
D E P A R T M E N T S
4 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
V O L U M E 2 N U M B E R 2TH
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The Childhood Obesity BattleB Y B E L L A W I L L I A M S
The Junior League partners with Louie’s Kids to battlethe Lowcountry's rising childhood obesity rate.
12Education Within Reach B Y C L AY G I L B E R T
Since 1999, the Gavalas-Kolanko Foundation hasbeen helping students with disabilities to reachtheir secondary education goals throughfundraisers such as the annual James IslandConnector Run.
20
Letter from the Junior League President
CAUSE for Celebration
Catalyst - Charleston Moves
Goodwill - BenefitFocus Weighs In On Corporate Wellness
Motivated -Trophy Life
Pay It Forward - Everyone Deserves A Chance To Play Ball!
Groundwork - Get Moving!
Engage - Calendar of Events
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C O V E R P H O T O B Y PA U L A I L L I N G W O R T H
A B O U T T H E C O V E R :
W h a t , m e g l o a t ? M e r e d i t h N e l s o n
s a y s s h e b e a t h e rb r a w n y c o l l e a g u e
( a m o n g o t h e r s ) , K e nB r o w n - a n A i r F o r c er e t i r e e , b y u s i n g t h er i g h t s t r a t e g y : E v e r y
f i v e p u s h u p s s h e t o o ka b r e a k , w h i l e h e rc o m p e t i t i o n n e v e r
s t o p p e d t i l l t h e yd r o p p e d .
Southeastern Facial Plastic /Cosmetic Surgery Center, P.A.
2 4 7 C a l h o u n S t r e e t , C h a r l e s t o n , S o u t h C a r o l i n a
Southeastern Facial Plastic/Cosmetic Surgery Center, P.A. is dedicated to the belief that doctors do bestwhat they do most. We are committed to the pursuit of excellence through anatomic specialization. Dr.Louis Costa specializes in facial plastic and cosmetic surgery, while Dr. Dana Heikes specializes in body
contouring. Together, they bring to their patients more than forty years of experience in the art of cosmetic sur-gery. They have helped thousands of patients enhance their lives by achieving their aesthetic goals.
Our experienced staff, combined with our Joint Commission certified surgical suites, allows SoutheasternFacial Plastic/Cosmetic Surgery Center, P.A. to offer you a complete range of cosmetic services. From advancedskin care programs to the latest surgical techniques, we offer a luxurious state-of-the-art facility where attentionto detail is assured.
We hope you will choose Southeastern Facial Plastic/Cosmetic Surgery Center, P.A. when you decide to pursue cosmetic surgery. For a personal consultation call today.
Dana L. Heikes M.D., F.A.C.S.
Board CertifiedPlastic Surgeon
Louis E. Costa, II D.M.D., M.D.
Director,Board Certified
CAUSE6 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
1. Enjoying a dance at the Rein &Shine Annual Barn Raiser.
2. The team from Ted's Butcher Blockcaptures the victory in the 2008Bocce Bash.
3. The Cinco de Mayo celebrationheats up the night.
4. A salsa dance for Cinco de Mayo.
5. The dragon boats rest before thefury takes to the water.
6. A group of friends enjoy a day ofworld-class women's tennis at theFamily Circle Cup.
7. In full stride during the DragonBoat Festival.
8. A perfect day for a snack andsome autograph collecting at theFamily Circle Cup.
9. Striking a pose duringCharleston Fashion Week.
10. A beautiful day for the FirstFlush Festival at the CharlestonTea Plantation.
11. Lynn Cobb and Carol Kemble,Director of Individual Philanthropyfor Half the Sky Foundation, at afundraiser at the Daniel Island Club.
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12. Kristen Odell, Erin O, and DebbieBrooks at the Half the SkyFoundation fundraiser.
13. Keeping an eye on the fabulousauction items at the Heart Ball.
14. Junior League of Charlestonmembers enjoy volunteering atthe American Heart Association'sHeart Ball.
15. Jennifer Roberts, BrandonBreaux and Andy Breaux at theHalf the Sky fundraiser.
16. Dressed to impress at theAmerican Heart Association'sHeart Ball.
17. KISS at the Rock Star HolyCity Fundraiser.
18. Dress to rock the night away andraise money for The Parker MiracleHouse at Rock Star Holy City.
19. Junior League of Charlestonmembers volunteer to serve TuesdaySupper at MUSC Children’s Hospital.
20. Mayor Hallman with the ladies ofMUSC Alzheimer's Research &Clinical Programs.
21. A group enjoys the Sol LegareRenovation Fundraiser.
22. Kyle and Anna Branham andCameron and Matt Renwick at theMemory Walk.
23. Wendy Weisner with Toby andSullivan at the 2008 Memory Walk.
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CAUSE8 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
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Charleston MovesB Y J A N E R O C K I N G H A M
re you one of the tens ofthousands of area resi-dents who enjoy walking,running or biking the
Ravenel Bridge? If so, you haveCharleston Moves to thank for thepedestrian-friendly lane namedWonder’s Way in memory of GarrettWonder, a leading area cyclist who losthis life in a tragic bicycling accident.
Charleston Moves is a local non-profit organization whose mission isto make Charleston healthier andmore livable by creating a communitythat values pedestrian, bicyclist andtransit options. Founded in 1996,Charleston Moves began as theCharleston Bicycle Advocacy Group.Founder Don Sparks formed the groupafter experiencing hostility on a South
Carolina road following his returnfrom a cross-country bicycle trek toCalifornia. “Katherine Saenger and Iwere nearly run off the road by atrucker who cursed at us and thensquirted water at us from his win-dow,” Sparks said. “I couldn’t believehow hostile the environment was tobicyclists in the state. At the time,nothing was being done about it, so Idecided to form an advocacy group.”
As the grassroots movement tookhold, Sparks and other founding mem-bers found themselves serving on var-ious local transportation committeesmaking decisions affecting area bicy-clists and pedestrians. Some of theiraccomplishments include the installa-tion of bike racks on CARTA busesand the addition of bike lanes on FollyRoad, Coleman Boulevard and BreachInlet. Perhaps the group’s biggest suc-cess is in spearheading the successfuleffort to ensure a bike and pedestrianlane on the “new” bridge.
“Incorporating a bike and pedes-trian lane in the Cooper River Bridgedesign appeared to be an uphill bat-tle,” according to Sparks. Originallythe South Carolina Department ofTransportation was opposed to theidea citing safety and financialconcerns. Nevertheless, advocacyefforts continued. Soon the CoastalConservation League, the localSierra Club chapter, Earth Forceand Community Health Partnersunited with Charleston Moves underthe banner “Can’t Wait to Bike theNew Bridge.”
A“Society today is
craving theopportunity to
experience a betterquality of life and
cycling is the perfectanswer to meet thisneed. That is why I
want to be a bicyclerider. There is one
thing that is holdingme back – I don’t
want to die. In SouthCarolina that has been
a very real concern,and SCDOT is tacklingit with determination.”
Elizabeth Mabry,Executive Director
SCDOT
(From left) CathyNixon Heibel of
Charleston Moves,Lesa Johnson, the
winner of Earth Fare'sTour de Tomato Trek
bicycle grand prizegiveaway, and Anna
Ritchardson ofLowcountryEarth Force
CAUSE 9V O L U M E 2 N U M B E R 2Please recycle this publication
“...just as we don’task ‘Would you likedrainage with thishighway?’ We shouldnot ask ‘would youlike bike lanes.’Both are integralparts of any highwayimporovementproject.”
Elizabeth Mabry,Executive DirectorSCDOT
TOP: The West AshleyGreenway createsendless opportunitiesfor local residentsto enjoy outdoorfamily time.
LEFT: (from left)Tom Bradford,Tracy Mckee andCathy Nixon-Heibelspread the wordabout CharlestonMoves at theCharleston Green Fair.
Local politicians gave their supportto the cause as did local media out-lets, and the public at large rallied inan astounding manner. In fact,Charleston Moves reports that localmayors received over 30,000 post-cards supporting the pedestrian andbike lane. Former director of theNational Center for Walking andBicycling, Bill Wilkinson, called thecampaign the most effective advoca-cy effort he had witnessed in his morethan 20 years of bicycle work.
The scope of the organization hasbroadened over the past few years toinclude not only cyclists but pedestri-ans and users of public transportation.With its focus now on transportationchoices and active living by design,the organization changed its name toCharleston Moves.
Currently, advocacy efforts aredirected toward ensuring that localroad construction incorporates a“complete street” approach. A com-plete street takes into account the
needs of all users including bicy-clists, pedestrians, the disabled,transit, transit users and cars. “Fordecades our approach to road con-struction has been to build roads forcars, not for moving people,” Sparkssaid. “We need to fundamentallyshift our philosophy as the currentapproach leaves an estimated one-third of the American populationwho don’t drive for various reasonswithout transit options.”
Also, efforts are underway to quali-fy Charleston by the League ofAmerican Bicyclists' Bicycle FriendlyCommunities by ensuring thatCharleston has taken “forthrightsteps” to include cyclists on as manyroads as possible, with bike lanes,separate bike paths, signage and sig-nals as necessary.
Charleston Moves is assistingthe City of Charleston in completingthe “West Ashley Greenway,” whichwill provide an alternative trans-portation route in the SavannahHighway area. The West AshleyGreenway and the bike and pedestri-an lane on the Cooper River Bridgeare designated legs of the 2,600-mile-long Maine to Key West EastCoast Greenway, and CharlestonMoves is actively working with theEast Coast Greenway Alliance toextend the East Coast Greenwaythrough South Carolina.
To learn more about Charleston Moves or to get involved with the cause to makeCharleston a greener, more active pedestrian and bicycling community, please visit
www.charlestonmoves.org.
CAUSE10 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
GOOD
WILL
Benefitfocus Weighs InOn Corporate Wellness
B Y C AT H E R I N E W I L L I A M S
orkplace wellness pro-grams are becomingthe new buzz as stud-ies show the multiple
benefits to both employers andemployees alike during the busy 9 to5 work schedule.
According to a survey conductedby Cornell University, employers canexpect to save between $300 and$450 annually per employee pereach $100 to $150 investment.Bigger benefits often include anincrease in job satisfaction; reducedabsenteeism and stress levels; andincreased productivity.
Charleston-based Benefitfocushas been taking notice of thistrend of encouraging wellness inthe workplace.
Recognized as the largest health-care software provider in the UnitedStates, the company is in thebusiness of watching and reactingto these health trends for the benefitof its customers and associates. Withits headquarters in Charleston, thecompany began providing wellnessincentives to its associates in 2001with discounted gym memberships,health risk assessments and biomet-ric screenings.
“At Benefitfocus, our associatesare the most important part of thecompany,” said Andy Howell, SVP &general counsel. “Our associates’hard work allows us to provideanticipatory service to our customerpartners. To give something back tothem while improving their lives isincredibly important.”
The core values of the company, infact, are written on the back of everyassociate’s badge: Provide anticipato-ry service; Respect the individual; andCelebrate! And at Benefitfocus, thesearen’t just words – they are put intoaction every day.
To focus on respecting the indi-vidual, Benefitfocus began its mostintensive and rewarding wellness
program in 2007 – the BenefitfocusWheel. The Wheel encompasses thecompany's corporate culture andconsists of four key characteristics ofa well-balanced life: Learning, Living,Community and Spirit. A council ofassociates was formed to carry outthe vision of each key area, focusingon the betterment of each associateas a whole.
W
RIGHT: Benefitfocusbegan providing
bicycles to itsassociates in 2006
after moving thecompany to its new
headquarters onDaniel Island.
The bicycles arepart of the employee
wellness initiativeand allow for both
exercise and ascenic view of
the area.
CAUSE 11V O L U M E 2 N U M B E R 2
LIVINGPrograms within the Living
portion include iGetFit/iWin andGoTheXtraMile. In the iGetFit/iWinprogram, associates are provided aguide with point values attached toeach wellness initiative. Points areearned for exercise, weight loss,smoking cessation and completion ofbiometric screenings and/or theHealth Risk Assessment, etc. In theGoTheXtraMile program, associatesare treated to a free, healthy lunchonce a month after completing a one-mile walk during their lunch break.
LEARNINGThe purpose of the Learning
portion of The Wheel is to provideprofessional and personal develop-ment through programs, such aspresentations, Lunch & Learnsessions and the Corporate Library.
COMMUNITYBenefitfocus encourages its associ-
ates to give back to the communityand works closely with the TridentUnited Way, the Lowcountry FoodBank and the American Red Cross toprovide community service projectson a regular basis. Associates arealso encouraged to pursue individualcommunity service and fundraisingprojects for which they are passionate.
SPIRITThe purpose of the Spirit Council is
to reward and motivate associates bycelebrating their accomplishments. Insupport of the strenuous annual OpenEnrollment season, non-work relatedactivities are planned for associates toexperience. Some of the fun happen-ings include comedy lunch hours,on-site Tae-Bo and Yoga classes,massages each Thursday, smoothiebreaks and complimentary mealsthroughout the OE season.
While Benefitfocus is able toprovide a wealth of wellness opportu-nities for its associates, instituting awellness program within your owncompany can be as simple as settingup group walks during lunch breaksto as complex as working with yourcompany’s insurance providershealthcare programs. Regardless ofthe task, the welfare of employeeshas a direct, positive impact on thesuccess of the company.
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TOP: Benefitfocusprovides a multitudeof on-site classes toits associates eachyear including yogaand Tae-bo. Thecompany beganoffering discountedgym memberships in2001 to encouragephysical fitness and,as of this spring, bootcamp classes arebeing offered beforeand after work.
BOTTOM: Smoothiebreaks are offeredto Benefitfocusassociates as atreat during its hecticopen enrollmentperiod. The companyalso provides freelunches every Fridayduring this busytime of year.
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besityChildhood
BATTLE
the
B Y B E L L A W I L L I A M S
Peer-to-peersupport helps FitClub students stayon track towardsmeeting theirweigh-loss goals.
CAUSE14 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
In Charleston County, 40%of boys and 36% of girls are obese.
49% of the obese childrenin Charleston County attend
Title One schools.
Obesity rates among all SouthCarolina residents have more
than doubled since 1990.
Obesity-attributed medicalexpenses in South Carolina
topped one billion dollarsin 2003.
Statistics provided by Louie’s Kids
C hildhood obesity is an insidi-ous health risk that manyexperts agree has reached
epidemic proportions. South Carolinahas the seventh worst obesity rate inthe nation. It is estimated that amongchildren ages two to five, one out offour is either overweight or obese.
Alarmed at the growing increasein obesity rates and subsequentobesity-related illness among children,the Association of Junior LeaguesInternational, Inc. (AJLI) developed anational program in 2005 to raiseawareness of the issue. AJLI alsoencourages the almost 300 Leaguesthroughout the world to address theissue in their own communitiesthrough local programming. As part ofthis initiative, the Junior League ofCharleston recently partnered with alocal organization to develop a mentor-ing program for obese elementaryschool-aged children.
“These children, they just touchyour heart,” said Jessica Levkoff, aLeague member participating in FitClub, a partnership between theLeague, Mitchell Elementary Schooland Louie’s Kids, a local organizationon a mission to end childhood obesity.
Students identified as clinicallyobese are eligible to participate in thefour-month Fit Club program. “Wedeveloped the program based on bestpractices from our summer fitnesscamp programs and custom-tailoredthese principles into a community-based after-school program,” saidLouis Yuhasz, founder of Louie’s Kids.“I have been blown away by thesuccess of these kids.”
“NOT ONLY DO THESE VOLUNTEERSHAVE A DIRECT POSITIVE IMPACTON A CHILD’S LIFE, BUT THEY HAVELEARNED HOW VOLUNTEERINGOFTEN INVOLVES UNANTICIPATEDCHALLENGES, MAKING SUCCESSTHAT MUCH MORE MEANINGFUL.”
– Lauren Hennet, Fit Club Coordinator
Under the supervision of a nutritionist, students learnabout healthy eating choices, proper serving portionsand how to read the nutritional information on foodpackaging.
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Fit Club incorporates severalcomponents to optimize success:
• Nutritional education helpsstudents understand how food choic-es contribute to the problem. Programparticipants learn strategies such ashealthy snack alternatives, the valueof fresh produce, limiting caloricintake and preparing food in a nutri-tious manner.
• Participants are encouraged toengage in daily physical activity,and regular participation reapsrewards in addition to the obvioushealth benefits. For example, with reg-ular participation in Saturday morningexercise outings, students earn a newpair of brand-name athletic shoes.
• Daily journaling has proven tobe beneficial to participants as a way ofexpressing feelings of accomplishmentor defeat. Journaling seems to be amotivator as participants can refer toperiods of success and recall how posi-tive success made them feel.
• Family engagement is manda-tory for Fit Club students. Without thestrong support and reinforcement offamily, participants’ rate of successdecreases dramatically.
• Weekly conference calls with aclinician keep participants on track interms of realistic and attainableweight-loss goals. The clinician canhelp ensure the weight loss program isimplemented at a healthy and safepace as well as provide suggestions onhow participants can modify theirbehavior to overcome challenges.
• Outside encouragement andsupport has proven to be a strongmotivator for Fit Club students.Children in particular respond posi-tively to praise and to encouragement,so the mentoring role from someoneoutside the family helps validateparticipants’ efforts.
This year, the Junior League’sProvisional, or new member, class isvolunteering with the Fit Club programand serving as mentors for the 22participants currently enrolled. Threetimes a week, Fit Club students meetafter school for exercise, lessons innutrition education and meetingswith the clinician.
“It’s been a very rewarding experi-ence,” said Katie Minchlink. “I thinkthe League members get more excit-ed about the participants’ successesthan they do. When one of ourmentees makes his or her weeklygoals, we jump up and down and getteary-eyed because we know thedifficult road that lies ahead for thesechildren if they do not take steps nowto live a healthier life.”
As mentors, League memberscontact participants three times aweek. The contact is made via email,telephone, in-person or through hand-written notes. Generally, mentors serveas cheerleaders and keep participantsmotivated through praise and encour-agement. Every Saturday morning,League members attend Fit Clubexercise outings such as walks in thepark or playing physically active games.
“This has been a valuable volunteerexperience on many levels,” said LaurenHennet who coordinates the programon behalf of the League. "Not only dothese volunteers have a direct positiveimpact on a child’s life, they havelearned how volunteering often involvesunanticipated challenges, makingsuccess that much more meaningful.”
Hennet added that for a lot of theprogram participants, making regularcontact is not easy. “At times we can’tget in touch with our mentees eitherbecause the phone has been discon-nected or messages left at home do notget relayed,” she said. “We’ve had toget creative about making contact insome instances, such as hand-deliver-ing notes of encouragement.”
“Just because we encounter bumpsalong the way doesn’t mean we canturn our backs in frustration,” Hennetsaid. “The League helps train us to becommitted volunteers, and that meanssometimes having to change coursemid-stream to work through issues orgetting creative and approaching thesituation in a new manner.”
Overall, the program has beenextremely successful. In just fourmonths, the 22 participants havecollectively lost 118 pounds.
ABOVE: Regular exerciseis a vital component of theFit Club program.
CAUSE16 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
MOTI
VATE
D
Trophy Life
B Y E M I LY P E R L M A N A B E D O N
n a community filled withcaring people, MeredithNelson has muscled herway to the front of the
pack in physical fitness philanthropy.She not only “goes the extra mile;”she hightails it at a record pace.
The owner and top-dog trainer atPrimeTime Fitness on Sullivan’sIsland, Nelson is an award-winning,high-speed runner, renowned by herclients; for her butt-kicking workoutsand for the extraordinary amount oftime and energy she expends as avolunteer – promoting wellness –particularly among populationswhere health and fitness needs aresorely neglected.
Trained as a rehabilitation coun-selor, Nelson has worked for morethan 15 years with individuals whohave specific exercise requirementsdue to illness and disability; but toMeredith, everybody has a “specialneed” when it comes to working out.“Whether you are fighting to recoverfollowing a stroke, trying to break badhabits of longtime lethargy orattempting to reach a personal goal ina race, it’s all about breaking throughphysical and psychological obsta-cles,” she explained.
Nelson, who used to have 30 extrapounds on her 5-feet-2-inch frame,has personally broken through a fewof those barriers, having completedsix marathons and taken a top spot incountless 5 and 10K races. However,she is particularly proud of a high-pro-file win that raised critical dollars forthe Boys and Girls Club. A push-upcontest fundraiser sponsored by her
IRIGHT: Win-Win:
Shown here in anearly-morning, indoorgroup cycling class at
her Sullivan's Islandgym, PrimeTime
Fitness, MeredithNelson motivates her
clients to help keepthe community in
top shape while theywork on their own
fitness goals.
Photos by Paula Illingworth
Meredith Nelson saysshe beat her brawny
colleague, Ken Brown– an Air Force retiree
who serves on theBoys and Girls ClubBoard – by using a
well thought-outstrategy: Every five
pushups, she took arest, while her
competitors neverstopped, ‘til they
dropped.
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gym, pitted Nelson against the otherPrimeTime trainers – two men – withdonors placing pledge money onwhich of the three athletes theythought could do the most push-upsin 45 minutes.
Nelson secured her reputation asthe Lowcountry’s sovereign, petitepowerhouse when, in the ultimateTortoise-versus-Hare finish, she beather musclebound opponents. Later,describing the win in a fitness columnshe pens regularly for local newspa-pers, Nelson wrote, “Total amount ofmoney raised for the Boys and GirlsClubs – over $7,000. Lee’s totalnumber of push-ups – 601. Ken’s totalpush-ups – 610. Meredith’s totalpush-ups – 673. Bragging rights for ayear – PRICELESS!”
The event, now an annual fundrais-er, has grown to include trainers fromnearly a dozen other gyms, and has
JOIN THE TEAM : To find out this year's winner of The PrimeTime Fitness Push-Up Contestbenefitting the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Trident Area, please visit www.primetimefit.net.
To donate to the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Trident Area:
Contact Neesha Patel, Director of Development843.937.6523 (office)843.330.0587 (cell)
Or visit www.bgclubta.org
ABOVE LEFT: Workingone-on-one withindividuals is somethingMeredith plans to doforever because, shesays of personal training,"It's so rewarding to seepeople fly past what theyperceive to be their ownpersonal limitations."
ABOVE: The petitepowerhouse also lovescoaching a group."There's an amazingenergy that comes outof a bunch of people whoare working together andsupporting each other tomeet a shared goal," sheexplains. "That's truewhether the focus is ongetting healthy or helpingout a neighbor in need."
raised close to $20,000 for the charity’safter school programs. Nelson saysshe loves that something so much funcan also benefit young people in need.“It brings new meaning to ‘healthycompetition,’” she explained. “Nomatter who ends up the champ, thekids get the prize. That makes everyparticipant a winner.”
Nelson regularly mentors and trainsindividuals for charitable sportingevents such as the Leukemia Team-In-Training and the Multiple SclerosisBike Ride. Having served as avolunteer member of the Sullivan’sIsland Elementary School (SIES)Improvement Committee, she devel-oped and implemented a TeacherFitness Training Program whichincluded a weekly outdoor workout forteachers led by Nelson. She wasinstrumental, as well, in developingthe “Frequent Activities Club” in
which SIES students are encouragedand rewarded for trying newactivities. Last year, Nelson alsovolunteered her time to provide a fit-ness/running program at Santee-St.James Elementary in McClellanville.
“When I think of Meredith, thewords Endless Day, come to mind,”says Lisa Mitchell, a PrimeTime clientand physical therapist, who recentlyworked with Nelson to create aninstructional DVD for neighborshelping rehabilitate a much-loved,wheelchair-bound gym member. “Hertime is not her own; it belongs toeveryone who is fortunate enough tobe associated with her. She neversays no to anyone in need.”
Mitchell praises Nelson’s ability tofind unexpected opportunities fordoing good and inspiring others tojoin in. “The first time I met her, shewas collecting sports equipment tobring to kids in poor villages in CostaRica, where she was vacationing,”Mitchell recalls. “She supports, moti-vates, and enhances so many lives.Meredith encourages us all to do andbe more – helping out in the simplest,most generous manner.”
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P E N D L E T O N S H I F L E T T, M A R Y M I T C H E L L A N D A M Y H I L L
arah Lyles Long wasalways her little brotherStuart’s biggest cheer-leader at his baseball
games. She loved encouraging him ashe circled the bases. At the sametime, she longed to participate in asport herself. Ever since a brain stemstroke following a brain tumor whenshe was five, Sarah Lyles had beenconfined to a wheelchair and left withlimited movement in her extremities.Teachers and friends at school hadtried to include her in their schoolyardgames, but playing areas usuallyweren’t conducive to a wheelchair,causing her to have to watch fromthe sidelines.
That all changed with theCharleston Miracle League. From thevery first ‘Play ball!’ Sarah Lyles wasall smiles as she was finally able toparticipate in a sport where thebarriers were removed and the fanswere cheering her on from thebleachers. For a child who could onlywatch and wish before, this was adream come true.
The Charleston Miracle League(CML), a baseball league for childrenwith physical and mental disabilities,has made it possible for kids likeSarah to achieve the same dream astheir healthy peers - to get togetherand play ball.
The CML is one of 200 MiracleLeague organizations throughout theUnited States. Channing Proctor,founder of the Charleston MiracleLeague, attended an Atlanta MiracleLeague game, his then hometown,and was truly inspired by the event.
“The players had discovered the loveof baseball! They were having agreat time and the smiles on theirfaces were unforgettable,” recalledProctor. Growing up playing LittleLeague and then for the CitadelBulldogs, Proctor, too, knows aboutthe love of baseball. “I wanted every-one to have the opportunity to havefun playing baseball, regardless oftheir ability,” he said. “So when Imoved to Charleston in 2002, I start-ed the Charleston Miracle League.”
With the CML, the players aregiven the chance to experiencethings a child with disabilities wouldtypically not be able to – to participatefirsthand in an organized sports team,to enjoy the thrill of a crowd cheeringthem on and, most importantly, to feellike a regular kid, not one with adisability – making the MiracleLeague field an oasis away from theireveryday battles.
But the players aren’t the only oneswhose lives have been changed by theCML. Parents, volunteers and visitorsare provided with an equally reward-
ing experience. “I am continuallyamazed at the impact the CharlestonMiracle League (CML) makes not onlywith our special needs baseballplayers, but also on their parents, thevolunteers and our community atlarge. The smiles that radiate eachgame from ALL of our participants –players, volunteers and fans – lets meknow we’re making a positive differ-ence in the lives of so many. It's anhonor to be involved with the successof the Charleston Miracle League,”Proctor said. The benefits gained byeveryone involved are tremendous.
The 2009 CML spring seasonkicked off on March 7th. Games takeplace Saturday mornings in the springand fall on a special, custom-designedfield with a cushioned rubberizedsurface to help prevent injuries. Madepossible by private donations forconstruction costs and design andengineering fees and by the City ofCharleston for the donation of land, theCML built this state-of-the-art, handi-cap accessible baseball complex inWest Ashley.
Everybody Deserves AChance To Play Baseball!
S
RIGHT: A MiracleLeague player and her
Buddy approach theplate to hit a home run.(credit Emily McDaniel)
FACING PAGE: SarahLyles Long smiles
proudly for her Fall 2008Astros team picture.
Not only is the Miracle League’sfield a bit different from those ofother baseball leagues, so are therules. All players bat each inning,all base runners are safe, everyplayer scores a home run eachinning and each team alwayswins. Every player is a superstar inthis League.
CML is free to all participants,with each player getting a teamhat and jersey and an end-of-the-season trophy. The teams, allnamed after major league teams, are grouped at random, ratherthan by age, providing the players and volunteers with theopportunity to meet new people and to network with otherspecial needs kids and their families.
To ensure the safety of the players, each is paired with a“buddy” or an able-bodied volunteer who assists them inbatting, catching, throwing and circling the bases or whereverhelp is needed. Jason Scalzo, a buddy and CML board member,has been actively involved with the League since 2005. “It’s sorewarding,” he said, “to come out here each year and see thesame players return year after year. This is as much of a thrilland source of pride to me as it is to them.”
The success of the Charleston Miracle League is largelyattributed to community support as well as dedicated volun-teers and players. Since it’s founding, the CML has successfullycampaigned to raise the funds needed to support its missionand ensure it be offered at no cost to every one involved. TheLeague’s biggest fundraiser, Bridging the Gap Through Baseball(BTGTB), takes place each April during the Cooper River BridgeRun. BTGTB has been a huge success. Approximately $35,000was raised at this year's event with the help of CML families,volunteers, the local community and donors from all over thecountry and beyond. Anyone can participate in the BTGTB byraising money through pledges prior to running (or walking) therace, either as an individual participant or as a CML group.
The Charleston Miracle League has continued to grow andpositively impact more and more disabled kids and theirfamilies. There are currently eight teams in the League, but theroster expands each season as more teams join the League.CML continues to be a source of happiness and pride for theCharleston community and all involved. Betsy Ellingson, a CMLboard member, believes that, “you could not find a more fittingword than ‘miracle’ to describe what happens on and aroundthis field. You can see on the face of each player, family member,coach, volunteer and spectator how much this League is touch-ing every heart. It is more than a baseball game - its pure joy! Itis a privilege to be part of such a great team.”
Sarah Lyles Long is now 14. When asked why she loves theMiracle League, she simply said, “Because it’s fun.” But really, it’smore than that. Sarah Lyles’ mother, Rebecca Long, added, “theMiracle League has provided for Sarah Lyles a place where shefeels a true sense of participation, as well as feeling encouraged,validated and loved. The brilliant smile she flashes as she crosseshome plate tells it all.”
HOW TO GET INVOLVED: There are several ways to get involved with Charleston Miracle League:
1) Be a Buddy - Buddies pair with players and actually get to play the game with them.
2) Be an Announcer - Help announce the CML games.
3) Concessions - The CML concession stand is run by the Head & Spinal Cord Injury Group. Volunteers (groups or individuals) are needed to help run this area.
4) Bridging the Gap Through Baseball Fundraiser – The biggest fundraiser for CML, where fundraisers participate in the Cooper River Bridge Run as a team or individuals.
Interested in volunteering for the Bridging the Gap fundraiser, please visit www.firstgiving.com/charlestonmiracleleague.
For more information about the CML, please visit www.CharlestonMiracleLeague.org.
Captain Ted Bishop
843-881-0447www.CaptainsOrdersSC.com
Licensed Insured
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EducationWithin Reach
B Y C L AY G I L B E R T
who take their
marks and race for
the fastest time.
But this race is about
more than reaching the
finish line. It’s about
making education
within reach.
On the first
Saturday of
November each year,
the James Island
Connector is closed to
traffic for a few short
hours. Cars are
replaced by runners
Scholarship recipientAlex Jackson at theGavalas-KolankoFoundation's (GKF)October 2008 fundraiser
CAUSE22 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
he Gava las -Ko lankoFoundation (GKF), a 509(a)(2)public charity, holds the annualJames Island Connector Run and
other fundraising events eachyear to help students with disabilitiesreach their secondary educationalgoals. Founded in 1999 by Nicholas B.Gavalas and Dr. Ronald Kolanko, GKFawards scholarship assistance toCollege of Charleston students eachschool year, making “EducationWithin Reach” for South Carolina stu-dents pursuing a college educationdespite physical limitations.
“Mr. Gavalas and Dr. Kolanko cametogether after becoming aware ofthe costly requirements for studentswith disabilities wishing to attendcollege,” explained GKF Director DanaScarborough. “The overall cost ofadvanced education, amongst all ofthe challenges that students withspecial needs face, can be the mostdifficult to endure.”
Since its inception, 31 scholarshipshave been awarded by GKF to studentswith physical disabilities attending theCollege of Charleston. The disabilitiesrange from sight and hearing impair-ment to restricted movement.
Scholarship recipient Alex Jacksonsaid GKF has been very supportivethroughout his college career. “I'mappreciative of the scholarship andenjoy participating in communityevents with the foundation,” he said.
“Gavalas-Kolanko Foundationscholars have proven to be shiningexamples of what young peoplewith disabilities can achieve withsupport,” said Scarborough. “I thinkit’s important to note how involved ourrecipients are in campus life. Theydon’t let their disabilities get in theway,” she said.
GKF scholarship recipients areinvolved in numerous clubs andcommunity activities, includingmembership in the National Society of
Collegiate Honors and in youthministries, volunteering at MUSC,working as a College of Charlestonradio disc jockey and interning inMUSC’s office of public relations.
To raise money and awareness forstudents with disabilities and to helpthose students reach their secondaryeducational goals, GKF gets folks mov-ing each year through its largestfundraiser, the annual James IslandConnector Run. All proceeds from theevent provide scholarships to studentswith disabilities and, over the last fewyears, the foundation has raisedbetween $30,000 and $37,000 annually.
Scarborough explained the impor-tance of holding events that involve thecommunity and said the James IslandConnector is closed only one day eachyear - and that’s for the James IslandConnector Run. “It’s the only opportu-nity for runners and walkers to comeand enjoy the views of Charleston fromthis bridge,” she added.
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It’s also an important day to cele-brate the work GKF does and the stu-dents for whom participants run.Scarborough said that Mayor Joseph P.Riley, Jr. awarded the foundation in thespring of 2003 with a proclamationstating that the first Saturday of eachNovember would be celebrated asStudents with Disabilities Day throughthe Gavalas-Kolanko Foundation andthe James Island Connector Run.
Scarborough said the run has hadjust shy of 1,000 participants the lastfew years, and GKF is hoping to hit the1,000 mark at the 11th Annual JamesIsland Connector Run, which is sched-uled for November 7, 2009.
GKF Co-Founder Nick Gavalasechoed the importance of increasingparticipation. “In these financial timeswhen government funding is being cutand the philanthropic community isdecreasing,” he said, “it’s more importantnow than ever to help these students andincrease community awareness.”
In addition to the annual run, GKFalso holds other events to raise aware-ness and funds.
“The last two years, we’ve held asilent auction and fundraising event atJ. Paul’z in James Island,” Scarboroughsaid. “We’ve had a great crowd bothyears. In fact, we’ve outgrown thevenue!” In addition, scholarship recipi-ent Emily Lyles, a Studio Arts major atthe College of Charleston, had her art-work on display at the event and soldseveral pieces.
“It is so rewarding to see these stu-dents benefiting from the events thatwe plan,” said Scarborough. “They areso deserving of these scholarships andwe enjoy giving them out.”
Scarborough said the annual schol-arship reception, held at RandolphHall at the College of CharlestonCistern, is the culmination of a lot ofhard work. GKF celebrates thestudents and invites their families,faculty, friends and sponsors whosupport them. College of CharlestonPresident George Benson and MayorRiley are present to congratulate thescholarship recipients as well.
James Island Connector RunChairman Joe Riley III, who has servedon the GKF board for the past six years,has presented scholarships to recipi-ents for the past two years. “It is trulythe most humbling experience that I’veever had in my professional life and isthe highest honor that has ever beenbestowed upon me,” Riley said.
For more information about the Gavalas-KolankoFoundation, the 11th Annual James Island Connector Runor other fundraisers, please visit www.gkfoundation.orgor contact Dana Scarborough at 843-856-5518 or bye-mail at [email protected].
LEFT: Runners participate in the10th Annual James IslandConnector Run last November.
ABOVE: Sponsor Angie the Ant
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Get Moving!B Y E L I Z A B E T H K E L LY
harleston provides manyopportunities for its residents to enjoy thesunshine, ocean breezes
and scenic beauty. With so manyoptions, we know it’s hard to choose.Here are our top choices for inexpen-sive and healthy outdoor activitiesyou can experience in theLowcountry.
Splash Around Many public pools in the Charleston
area offer aquatic programs to the public for nominal daily feesincluding the Jones Center Pool andthe Park West Pool in Mt. Pleasant,Martin Luther King Jr. Pool on theCharleston peninsula and W.L.Stephens Aquatic Center in WestAshley. Visit www.charlestoncity.comor www.townofmountpleasant.com,click on recreation > aquatics.
Pack a PunchFor a great cardio workout, try a
kickboxing class at a local gym. EastWest Health Arts on James Islandoffers the toughest kickboxing classyou will ever love. Instructors com-bine aerobics, dance, yoga, martialarts, tai chi, weight training, Tae Bo,circuit training, bag workout andself defense - all packed into onehour! Contact 843-762-6580 or visitwww.eastwesthealtharts.com.
C Walk the WalkIf you have lived in Charleston
since 2005, then you’ll recall theexcitement of watching the con-struction of the “new bridge” andwatching the “old bridge” comedown. The 2.5 mile Arthur RavenelJr. Bridge, connecting Charleston toMount Pleasant over the CooperRiver, has become a grand symbol ofour community. Lace up your tennisshoes, grab a friend and hit the pave-ment! Don’t forget your camera forsome of the city’s best views. Need abigger challenge? Bike the bridge!Visit www.bikethebridgerentals.comor call 843-853-BIKE.
Naturally PutGet outside and enjoy the natural
beauty of the Lowcountry!
Rich in History – MagnoliaPlantation, Boone Hall Plantation,Cypress Gardens, Drayton Hall,Middleton Place, Hampton Park,White Point Gardens and more.
Rich in Nature – Sewee Visitorand Environmental EducationCenter (www.fws.gove/seweecenter)in Awendaw, Caw Caw County Park(www.ccprc.com) in Ravenel, andthe Francis Beidler Forest(www.sc.audobon.org) in Harleyville.
A Sandy Situation What Charlestonian doesn’t like to
head to the beach to take in somesalt air? Ride the waves in the ocean,take a walk or jog on the sandyshores...or even both!
Pedal Away Charleston is an incredible city to
experience on two wheels! Bikethrough the historic streets on thepeninsula for a quick tour, or ridearound the West Ashley Greenway, a10-mile trail that is part of the EastCoast Greenway featuring creeks,ponds and wetlands.
Park It Grab your four-legged friend and
head to one of the numerous dogparks in the area. The CharlestonCounty Parks and RecreationCommission has three dog parks:James Island County Park, PalmettoIslands County Park in MountPleasant and Wannamaker CountyPark in North Charleston. Visitwww.ccprc.com.
We consulted Dr. Ann Kulze, CEO and Founder of Dr. Ann & Just Wellness, LLC and author of Dr. Ann's 10-Step Diet,
about the benefits of children spending time outdoors and enjoying allthat Charleston has to offer. As a mother of four, wellness expert, fam-ily physician and Lowcountry native, Dr. Ann has wonderful and easyideas for encouraging wellness in the home:
• Make regular family visits to the farmer’s market. It’s a healthy,wholesome activity that provides an opportunity for physical activity,being outdoors and experiencing “real” foods with all of the senses.Studies show that kids are more apt to eat foods they have experiencedwith all of their senses. Involve children in the selection and placementof produce in bags and let them make their own food selections.
• Visit the growing number of “U-pick” family farms in theCharleston area to pick your own berries and other healthy treats.Visit www.pickyourown.org/SC.htm to find out more about the manyU-Pick farms in the area.
• Wash the family car together - it’s easy on the wallet and funto get soaked on a hot summer day.
• Go for nature walks. Take your child out in your neighborhoodor nearest park and count how many different types of birds yousee or hear.
• Compete as a family in an organized road race such as theFloppin’ Flounder 5K Run and Walk (June 13, 2009), Race for the Cure(Oct. 17, 2009) or the James Island Connector Run (Nov. 7, 2009).Walkers are welcomed, too!
• Visit White Point Gardens (also known as The Battery) to climbon the canons, hunt for sharks’ teeth in the oyster shell pathways orchase the squirrels.
• Plant a simple herb garden and have your child take responsi-bility for watering and harvesting the bounty.
• Explore and learn about the captivating and gorgeous naturetrails by foot or bike (when allowed) in the area. A wide variety ofinteresting nature, environmental, historical and cultural programsand activities are offered through Charleston County Parks andRecreation Commission. Visit www.ccprc.com for more details.
• Get out the sidewalk chalk, draw your own hopscotch grid andgo at it together. Competition typically elevates the level of fun andexertion for everyone!
• Visit Hampton Park and climb the many beautiful oak trees,especially those with low branches for safer climbing. Don’t forget topack some bread to feed the ducks!
• Go kayaking. There are several places that rent and even guide.
• Have a 2-on-2 or 3-on-3 family basketball game in your ownbackyard or at the nearest park.
• Have a “nature hunt” and make a “nature bracelet” with whatyou find. Simply take a piece of Scotch tape and place “bits ofnature”, flower petals, seeds, blades of grass, bugs, leaves, etc. onthe sticky side to decorate your bracelet.
CAUSE26 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLESTON, INC.
ENGA
GECalendar of Events
MAY 2009May 1 Annual Charleston Cinco de Mayo Festival7-11 p.m.
BENEFITS: RYAN WHITE HIV FOUNDATIONThe mission of the Charleston Cinco de Mayo Festival is to encourage togethernessbetween diverse communities in the Charleston area and to come together for anevening of good food, music, dancing and fun.
LOCATION: Visitor's Center Bus Terminal at 375 Meeting St., Downtown Charleston
COST: $10 Adults; $5 Children; Free for children under 12 (Food & Drink Sold Separately)
CONTACT: www.charlestoncdm.com or (843) 225-5288
May 2 Dragon Boat Charleston 2009 Festival 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
BENEFITS: DRAGON BOAT CHARLESTON & ROPER SAINT FRANCIS CANCER CENTER The Dragon Boat Charleston 2009 Festival is a fun day for corporate and communityteams to picnic and paddle together on the Ashley River in 41-foot dragon boats.
LOCATION: Brittlebank Park at 180 Lockwood Blvd., Charleston
COST: All team members are asked to raise $100 per person – Admission free
CONTACT: www.dragonboatcharleston.org
May 2 Dining with Friends Times vary
BENEFITS: LOWCOUNTRY AIDS SERVICES Supporters host parties in their homes, churches or workplaces in a massivefundraising effort for Lowcountry AIDS Services. The type of party and the menu isup to the hosts. Anything goes - from Black Tie to Barbecue!
LOCATION: Local homes
COST: Donation determined by guests
CONTACT: www.aids-services.com
May 2-10 North Charleston Arts Festival Times vary
BENEFITS: NORTH CHARLESTON CULTURAL ARTS DEPARTMENT Exciting entertainment is provided by more than forty national, regional and localprofessional performers, ethnic and cultural groups and community groups.
LOCATION: Performing Arts Center & Charleston Area Convention Center, North Charleston
COST: Prices vary
CONTACT: (843) 745-1087 or www.northcharleston.org
May 2 Rock Star Holy City Boarding at 6:30 p.m., Departure at 7 p.m.
BENEFITS: THE PARKER MIRACLE HOUSEThis theme party is where fun meets fundraising in a karaoke, costume-clad, rockstar of a harbor cruise.
LOCATION: Aboard the Spirit of the Lowcountry
COST: $65 per person (all inclusive) with only 325 tickets available
CONTACT: www.rockstarholycity.com
May 5 Wine Festival 6-9 p.m.
BENEFITS: MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH CAROLINA Enjoy an evening sampling more than 85 select wines from around the globe, biddingon the silent auction and dancing the night away.
LOCATION: Freshfields Village, Kiawah Island
COST: $35 per person
CONTACT: (843) 853-7880 or www.scwish.org
May 8-10 2009 Charleston Greek Festival12 p.m.
BENEFITS: GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH AND ITS CHARITIESCelebrated each year at the Charleston Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, theCharleston Greek Festival is full of authentic Greek food and celebration.
LOCATION: Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity at 30 Race St., Charleston
COST: $3 per person; $1 for students; free for mothers on Mothers Day
CONTACT: (843) 577-2063
May 13 An Elegant Evening...A Meal to Remember 6 p.m.
BENEFITS: EAST COOPER MEALS ON WHEELS This lively evening featuring fine cuisine and live and silent auctions is certainly anevening not to be missed.
LOCATION: Omar Shrine Temple at 176 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant
COST: $100 per person
CONTACT: (843) 881-9350 or www.ecmow.org
To see more images of the Lowcountry community celebrating a cause, check
out the CAUSE for Celebration section on pages 6-7. If you would like to
submit a photograph to CAUSE, please e-mail your high-resolution image
May 15 4th Annual Charleston Forget-Me-Not Ball6:30-9:30 p.m.
BENEFITS: ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION - SOUTH CAROLINA CHAPTERThis event will be an evening featuring fine food, live entertainment and silent andlive auctions.
LOCATION: Francis Marion Hotel, 387 King St., Downtown Charleston
COST: $100 per person
CONTACT: Cameron Renwick at (843) 571-2641 www.charlestonfmnball09.kintera.org
May 19 Big Brothers Big Sisters Golf Tournament 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
BENEFITS: THE CAROLINA YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTER This tournament, supporting a program matching caring adults with children in need,provides lunch, dinner and a full day of golf.
LOCATION: Daniel Island Club at 600 Island Park Dr., Daniel Island
COST: $250 per person
CONTACT: (843) 266-5218 or www.cydc.org
May 22-June 7 Piccolo Spoleto FestivalTimes vary
BENEFITS: CITY OF CHARLESTON OFFICE OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS Showcasing artists principally from the Southeast region, Piccolo Spoleto, producedby the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs, maintains high standards of artis-tic excellence while also continuing to provide the community with affordable andoften free concerts and presentations, including many community outreach programs.
LOCATION: Venues throughout Downtown Charleston
COST: Varies by event
CONTACT: www.piccolospoleto.com
May 22-June 7 Spoleto Festival USA Times vary
BENEFITS: SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA For 17 days and nights each spring, Spoleto Festival USA fills Charleston’s historictheaters, churches and outdoor spaces with more than 120 performances byrenowned artists as well as emerging performers in disciplines ranging from opera,theater, music theater; dance; chamber, symphonic, choral and jazz music; and visual arts..
LOCATION: Venues throughout Downtown Charleston
COST: Varies by event
CONTACT: www.spoletousa.org
JUNE 2009June 5-6 Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival3-8 p.m. Friday, 12-8 p.m. Saturday
BENEFITS: SWEETGRASS BASKET MAKERS ASSOCIATIONThe highly anticipated Sweetgrass Festival celebrates the rich Gullah Geechee cul-tural heritage and provides the most extensive showcase of sweetgrass baskets inthe Lowcountry area.
LOCATION: Laing Middle School at 2213 Highway 17 North, Mt. Pleasant
COST: Free admission and free parking
CONTACT: (843) 856.9732 or www.sweetgrassfestival.org
BENEFITS: SOUTH CAROLINA MARITIME FOUNDATION Downtown Charleston attractions will feature tours of tall ships, an authentic piratecamp, wooden boats, a children’s village, family boat building, an education village,food, music and more.
LOCATION: Maritime Center, Ansonborough Field, Liberty Square and Patriots Point
COST: $15 in advance, $20 day of; Ages 6-17 $5 in advance, $10 day of; Some events offer free admission.
CONTACT: www.charlestonharborfest.org
June 27 “A Night in the Valley” Vintners Dinner & Auction 6:30 p.m.
BENEFITS: TRIDENT TECHNICAL COLLEGE FOUNDATION Enjoy the finest wines and culinary options while advancing careers for students.
LOCATION: The College Center, Trident Technical College at 7000 Rivers Ave., North Charleston
COST: $225
CONTACT: (843) 574-6600 or www.tridenttech.edu/wine.html
Calendar of Events (continued)
JULY 2009July 4 Festival in the ParkNoon-Dusk
BENEFITS: OLD SANTEE CANAL PARKJoin the Town of Moncks Corner as they celebrate the 4th of July. There will bevendors, music and entertainment, classic car and truck show, and pet shows. TheBerkeley Artist’s Guild’s annual members show will be in the Berkeley Museum from9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fireworks will go off at dusk.
LOCATION: 900 Stony Landing Road, Moncks Corner (Stony Landing Road inter-sects U.S. Hwy 52 Bypass/Rembert C. Dennis Blvd. at the traffic light)
COST: Free
CONTACT: (843) 899-5200 or www.oldsanteecanalpark.org
July 11 Folly Beach Moonlight Mixers 7-11 p.m.
BENEFITS: CHARLESTON COUNTY PARKSDance the night away under the stars at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. DJ Rob Durenwill spin the hottest oldies and beach music around. Food and beverages will avail-able on-site for purchase.
LOCATION: Folly Beach Fishing Pier
COST: $10 per person
CONTACT: (843) 795-4386 or www.ccprc.com
July 19 Bethany Fish Fry 4-6 p.m.
BENEFITS: BETHANY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH World-famous fish dinners prepared by the Men's Club of the Bethany United Methodist Church.
LOCATION: 1853 Maybank Hwy, James Island
COST: $6 per person
CONTACT: (843) 795-3527
July 13 – July 24 “Colonial Carolina” Summer Camp at Drayton Hall9 a.m.
BENEFITS: DRAYTON HALL A new Drayton Hall Summer Camp introduces children to the life of Carolinacolonists on the grounds of its centuries-old historic site. Recommended for childrenages 5 through 12 years old, the new camp takes place Monday through Friday, 9a.m. to noon. Session A takes place July 13th through the 17th; Session B is July20th through the 24th.
LOCATION: 3380 Ashley River Rd.
COST: $135 per child per week for non-members; $115 for Friends of Drayton Hall.Includes healthy snacks plus all supplies to participate in crafts and other activities.
CONTACT: Rikki Davenport at (843) 769-2607 or [email protected] www.draytonhall.org
Middle-market and large-scale clients move to Dixon Hughes, a Top 20 US accounting firm, for its deep resources, clear judgment and business insights.
They are progressive and forward-thinking on issues that affect our operations, so we get much more than just a certified audit.
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CPAs and Advisors throughout the Southern United States
independence + fresh ideas—Allan Cady, CFO, Van Tuyl Automotive Group
