Azalea Magazine Summer 2018 by AZALEA Magazine

THE PRESERVATION OF BERKELEY COUNTY'S STORIED OAKLAND CLUB

KEEPER OF THE WILD / BRINGING NEW LIFE TO A HOUSE IN HISTORIC PARK CIRCLE THE CREATIVE COUPLE BEHIND DOS BANDIDOS / Q&A WILL RIZZO /STONE SOUP COLLECTIVE SEVERN MADE SUPPLY CO. / RESTORING DOWNTOWN SUMMERVILLE / A DIXIE COCKTAIL

Summer 2018 ~ FREE

Modern Living in the Old South

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

EDISTO ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA Summerville’s Most Affordable Family Beach!

Edisto Island is the Lowcountry’s best kept, most affordable secret. Discover an unspoiled,

family oriented beach without traffic lights or hotels just 45 minutes from Summerville. Enjoy 8

miles of pristine shell strewn beach, Marina, galleries, & local seafood. Encounter historic churches & plantations nestled among signature Live Oaks. Our birdwatching and fishing are some of the best on the coast. Enjoy a nature tour or sunset cruise and watch dolphins & sea turtles at play. Crab or shrimp off the dock at Bay Creek Park. Choose kayaking, paddleboarding, golf, or biking our extensive trails. You will see why we love to call Edisto home. All your friends in Summerville & Charleston are buying! Don’t be the last one! Call Marie today for the best values on the coast!

Marie C. Bost Edisto’s Real Estate Specialist® selling edisto sinCe 1982

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Marie C. Bost Edisto’s Real Estate Specialist® selling edisto sinCe 1982

EDISTO@MARIEBOST.COM|MARIEBOST.COM 843-830-8669 | 143 JUNGLE RD, EDISTO BEACH, SC

FURNITURE

RUGS

ACCESSORIES

LIGHTING

FABRICS

BEDDING

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

A Z A L E A

M A G A Z I N E

F E AT U R E S 68

Summer 2018

W I L D AT H E A RT

Keeper of the Wild is setting the course for those born to be wild

WELCOME T O T H E C LU B

Berkeley Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oakland Club places thousands of acres in conservation trusts

Ripe for the Picking Picking strawberries at Kings Market on Edisto Island

SUMMER LOVIN'

Thirteen local adventures that will inspire a perfect Carolina summer

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

CONT ENT S

/ Summer 2018

25 08 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter 12 Contributors FIELD GUIDE A Brief Look Into Our Local Culture 15 The Sunglasses 16 Q&A Will Rizzo SOUTHERN LIFE 21 Southern Spotlight - Art 25 Southern Spotlight - Craft 29 Southern Spotlight - Community 33 Southern Spotlight - Community

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

51 COLUMNS 39 Natural Woman by Susan Frampton

43 Kids These Days by Tara Bailey 47 Life & Faith by Lili Hiser

51 Open House - Circle of Success Bringing new life to a house in a North Charleston neighborhood, Melanie and Kevin Kiernicki create a new ring in an ever-widening circle 80 THE VILLAGE POET - Back Road

DARE to COMPARE. Better Value, Lifestyle and Amenities. When shopping for a new home, we invite you to compare the lifestyle, value and wide variety of homesite options The Ponds offers: • Best Schools – Dorchester District 2 • On-site YMCA • Ponds & Lake for Kayaks, Canoes and Fishing • 1,000+ Acres of Preserves • 20 Floorplans to Choose From • 2- to 5-Bedroom Homes from the $240s

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Summerville, SC

EDITOR’S LETTER

The Call of Nature When I was growing up, we spent a lot of time outdoors. My family camped year-round in a pop-up trailer that froze us in the winter and simmered us in the summer. We fished secluded ponds teeming with bass, canoed endless rivers, and walked miles of fields and riverbanks in search of arrowheads or shark teeth. The outdoors was our game board, and wildlife the monopoly pieces that earned us points. We were nature nerds, and my brother’s recent call to report a Sand Hill Crane sighting and one-up me with a Grosbeak on his birdfeeder proves that we still are. Nature still plays a significant role in my life, and thirty-odd years of marriage into a family of avid sportsmen and conservationists has given me a great appreciation for those who respect wildlife and natural resources and work to preserve the way of life both represent. It was a privilege to shine a light on Pineville’s Oakland Club, to see first-hand the results of a commitment to conservation that has traveled full circle—tracking a small game bird’s plight through the history and heritage of its habitat. A rainy morning spent with hunting guide Roger Ravenel and General Manager Ryan Bowles gave me insight into the club’s centuries-old connection to the land and its traditions. Development nipping at the heels of the significant tract of land makes Oakland’s placement of over ten thousand acres into a conservation trust a gift of incredible generosity, and one of vital importance to the preservation of the area’s historical, cultural, and environmental integrity. It was hard to hang on to my heart at Keeper of the Wild’s wildlife rehabilitation center just outside of Walterboro, where founder Janet Kinser and other selfless volunteers open their arms to the most innocent of God’s wild creatures. Though it was tempting to smuggle a baby raccoon home in my pocket, knowing he would be growing toward release in his natural habitat made it a little easier to part with him. Take a minute to visit keeperofthewild.org for ways that you can donate your time, talent, or items on the organization’s wish list. I know a little raccoon that will appreciate your generosity. I had no idea that North Charleston’s Park Circle began on paper as an idealized garden city, but visiting the blossoming revitalized community for our home feature had me seeing green all over. Coincidence? I think not. Mother Nature seems determined to insert herself into my life, and I’m happy to walk beside her every chance I get. The older I get, the more I realize that if you’re lucky, life is a never-ending series of connections to the things that mean the most to you. It’s summertime—get out there and answer the call of nature!

Susan Frampton Senior Editor

“We love living here because of the community feel. We know our neighbors. Everyone’s super friendly. There’s definitely a southern charm to it.” Sacha W., current resident

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July 6 & 7 @ 8pm July 7 & 8 @ 3pm

Will Rizzo Co-Publisher and Editor in Chief will@azaleamag.com Dottie Rizzo Co-Publisher and Managing Editor dottie@azaleamag.com Susan Frampton Senior Editor Jana Riley Senior Editor & Copy Editor Lewis Frampton Distribution Manager Contributors Tara Bailey Virgil Bunao Elizabeth Donehue Susan Frampton Lili Hiser Ellen Hyatt Jana Riley Amanda Seifert Jason Wagener Photography Intern Patrick Baird Advertising Susie Wimberly susie@azaleamag.com 843.568.7830 Subscribe *Available for $16.99 a year (4 Issues). Visit azaleamag.com for details. Azalea Magazine is published by

114B E. Richardson Ave. Summerville, SC 29483 info@azaleamag.com www.azaleamag.com 843.478.7717

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

Stretch. Giggle. Live.

Great mom and baby care starts with caring. We have the technology and team to make your birthing experience a memorable one. Go to CharlestonHealthy.com/Maternity to find a doctor or register for a class.

Live your healthy

CONTRIBUTORS

JANA RILEY Writer /Editor

Lili Hiser Writer

JASON WAGENER llustrator

VIRGIL BUNAO Photographer

TARA BAILEY Writer

Jana Riley alternates her working time between interviewing people about their passions, writing inspiring stories as quickly as her fingers can type, and editing some of the most interesting magazines she has ever read. The rest of the time, you can find her immersed in love for her family while exploring places near and far.

Lili Gresham Hiser was born in Charleston, SC and raised in both the Lowcountry and Central Florida. She invested more than ten years of service in the non-profit/higher education sector. She and her husband enjoy re-experiencing life in the South through the eyes of their young children.

Jason started his illustrious art career when he won a coloring contest in third grade, subsequently entitling him the proud owner of a Mickey Mouse dry erase board. He moved to the Lowcountry in 1990, before attending The Savannah College of Art and Design.

Virgilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s images have graced the pages of Brides Magazine, Southern Living Weddings, Charleston Wedding Magazine, The Knot Magazine, and Southern Weddings Magazine. Virgil lives in Charleston with his beautiful wife, Courtney and two children, Jacob and Claire.

Tara Bailey lives in Summerville with her husband and three daughters, assuming the one in college comes home to visit. She has worked as a naturalist, a teacher, a writer, and an editor, balancing her love of the outdoors with her compulsion to alter sentences. She enjoys natural history, horror movies, and reads anything in print. She can usually be found on her bike or behind a coffee mug.

Leviner Law Firm provides thoughtful consideration and a personalized approach in matters of family law, small estate planning, and probate. 207 West Ric hardson Ave. / Sum m e rville (843) 5 01-0 602 / info@ levine rlawfirm .com

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

Koger-Murray-Carroll House

Indian Fields Methodist Campground

Bryant Courtyard

Appleby Church

Experience

THE RUSH OF BEING IN NO RUSH AT ALL Just outside of the hustle & bustle of Charleston is the quaint village of Saint George, where our historic sites, farmers market, and natural landscapes allow you to enjoy authentic rural South Carolina Lowcountry on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Southern

Time.â&#x20AC;?

www.villageofsaintgeorge.com

A B R I E F L O O K AT L O C A L C U LT UR E

Sunglasses Summer in the South means lots of sun, and a good pair of shades are a must for enjoying the season. Here are a few fun facts about this essential summer staple.

In 1936, Edwin H. Land combined his lens-making skills with his patented Polaroid filter, creating the first polarized sunglasses.

Ray-Ban's bestknown model, the Wayfarer, has been available since 1953 and is reported to be the best-selling style in history.

With the impending World War II in 1936, Ray-Ban designed anti-glare aviator style sunglasses for pilots.

The most expensive pair of sunglasses on eBay was the pair Elvis Presley famously wore at Madison Square Gardens concerts. They sold for $250,000.

Featuring: Sunglasses pg. 15 / Q&A with Will Rizzo pg. 16 / The Orange Bullet Cocktail pg. 18

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

For me, the music makes the film. I can't watch movies over and over, but I can listen to the music forever. Is there a motto that you live by? "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12 Who or what are you a fan of? My family. Between my wife and kids, there's enough there to keep me cheering. Coffee or tea? Unsweet tea and decaf coffee. It's weird, I know.

Q& A

Will Rizzo E d i to r : A z a l e a a n d Pa l m e t to Magazines

What is your favorite thing about living in the Lowcountry? The Lowcountry is full of natural beauty, great food, and unique traditions, but for me, it's the memories I've made: playing in the waves for hours with my kids at Edisto, the smell of perfume counters while Christmas shopping with my mom and grandmother, taking a detour to see the spot where my wife and I got engaged every time we go downtown. The Lowcountry is home and that's the best thing. What is your dream job? If we're talking about a dream job, then I'm going to dream. I have always wanted to be a composer of movie soundtracks. For me, the music makes the film. I can't watch movies over and over, but I can listen to the music forever. I want to be John Williams.

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

What's one thing you've bought in the last five years that you couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live without? Probably my iPhone. And that makes me want to toss it in a lake. I have a love-hate relationship with that thing. What's one thing you've bought in the last five years that you could go the rest of your life without? My wife would say the beach cruiser I bought a few years back. I don't ride it that often and it takes up precious space in the garage, but it's not going anywhere. I love that bike. What is your favorite music? I love music. There's only a couple of genres that I just can't stomach. I'm sure that I will leave out a bunch, but here are some of my favorites: R.E.M, Needtobreathe, Itzhak Perlman, 80s pop, 90s country, The Cure, Otis Redding, Weezer, modern orchestral music, Son Volt, U2, Violent Femmes, Indigo Girls, Chris Knight, George Strait... What is your dream vacation? I have two. Probably due to my obsession with the movie Harry and the Hendersons, but I've always wanted to go hiking through the mountains of the Pacific Northwest. Finding bigfoot would be an added bonus. I also want to take a train through Europe. I'm more interested in the small villages than the big cities. However, a week at Edisto works too. AM

ARTISAN CRAFTED JEWELRY

DOTTIE LANGLEY

T H E C O O P E R - h a n d c r a f t e d , s o l i d b r o n z e o y s t e r n e c k l a c e . d o t t i e l a n g l e y. c o m

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Orange Bullet 20 AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

Fill glass with ice, combine: 2 oz. Dixie Citrus Vodka 2 oz. orange juice 4 oz. ginger beer Juice of 1/4 lime Stir; garnish with orange slice

Think Norman Rockwell with a splash of Mark Twain. Shop, dine, and play in downtown Summerville, where charm and Southern hospitality blend gracefully with a modern, forward-thinking sensibility. Summerville's lovingly preserved downtown, lush public parks, friendly town square, and historic homes and gardens reflect its reputation as the Flowertown in the Pines.

Downton Summerville, SC Historically Modern

For info about Historic Downtown Summerville, visit summervilledream.org

Art for the People

With a soulful connection to each other and their beloved city, the creative power couple behind Dos Bandidos is painting Charleston in a whole new light by Jana Riley

Art Co-op

Candace Patterson and William Kiser of Dos Bandidos

Featuring: Art for the People pg. 21 / Severn Made Man pg. 25 / Bowls of Change pg. 29 / Return on Investment pg. 33 / Columns Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

Art For The People

Friends encouraged the couple to continue making art, and that enthusiasm—along with their shared enjoyment of the process— propelled them to pursue the venture more intensely. Now, seven years later, Candace Patterson and William Kiser are still making art, and their work hangs in countless homes and businesses around the world. Patterson still works at City Lights Coffee, while Kiser is employed by Boeing. At home, the two meet up in their backyard studio to create, sourcing inspiration from their travels, popular culture, and, of course, Charleston. Central to the artists’ focus is the world immediately around them, especially the oft-ignored or overlooked elements of the city. At one point, they did a series of screen prints depicting local people, mostly homeless, who spend their days walking or biking the streets of Charleston, as much of a part of the scene as any tourist attraction. Patterson had connected with many of these sorts of individuals, who she calls “Charleston Icons,” while working at the coffee shop downtown, and their stories and spirits touched her heart. Each of the prints tells a story, and portions of the proceeds go right back to the subjects themselves. The amount of Charleston-focused prints became even stronger after a recent trip to New Orleans, where Patterson and Kiser sought authentic pieces of art representing the city in place of traditional souvenirs. Upon return to the Lowcountry, the two upped their game creating Charleston-themed items worthy of serving as a lifetime reminder of a place held dear, whether to locals or out-of-town visitors.

andace Patterson and William Kiser are the type of couple you could picture having any sort of adventure, any place in the world, and fitting right in; their spirits seem to embody the traveler’s soul. Setting their sights on places near and far, the couple finds something to fall in love with everywhere they go, but nowhere on Earth is more treasured to them than their hometown of Charleston, South Carolina. Putting their talents to work alongside their effortless connection to one another, Patterson and Kiser are on a mission to share their devotion and passion for their city, one screenprint at a time. Patterson and Kiser met as neighbors 8 years ago, and it didn’t take them long to realize that their relationship was more than just geographical. They fell in love, and began building their life with one another, connecting over their shared love for art and adventure. On one of their first trips together, the pair went to Mexico, traveling by bus around less tourist-heavy places and absorbing the rich culture at every turn. They left the country feeling inspired, and upon return, they began making art together. In their past lives, Kiser went to school for fine art and printmaking, and Patterson had a wealth of experience screenprinting for a friend’s record label company, so they began gathering the tools needed to create prints of their own. They sourced inexpensive materials, improvised with items they already owned, and invested their hearts into the project. Months later, they showcased their Mexico-inspired prints at City Lights Coffee on Market Street, where Patterson worked, and the event was a success. 24

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

Recently, the Dos Bandidos turned their attention to a matter close to their own hearts: the steady flow of development across the Charleston peninsula and beyond. Taking their cameras to the streets, the pair photographs crumbling buildings and doomed facades before the inevitable bulldozers come, determined to capture the less glamorous side of the city that they have come to love. From there, they create: pulling screen prints across shirts and prints depicting scenes of what they call “old Charleston.” The project, which they have dubbed “The Chucktown Chronicles,” will be featured in their popular yearly calendar for 2019, and will be the focus of their annual May/June show at City Lights Coffee, just in time for the Spoleto Festival. “We want to capture that mystique we fell in love with here: the run down buildings, the chipping paint, the rouge elements, and the quirkiness of different parts of Charleston.” explains Kiser. “By capturing it, we can share it with people who love it as much as we do, as well as people who may not have seen it otherwise.” In addition to their annual show and pop-up exhibitions around town, Patterson and Kiser are regulars at artisan markets, including the Folly Beach Farmer’s Market, Thrifters and Drifters Market, the Charleston Night Bazaar, and the Charleston Night Market. Hauling vintage suitcases full of prints, hats, bandanas, shirts, and more, the two are always a popular stop for shoppers around town looking for artistic interpretations of their beloved city. For Patterson, there is great joy in what the pair does. “We love screen printing because it is accessible, affordable art,” she says. “You can still get handmade, limited edition prints, but we can charge much less than artists using other mediums. Because of this, we are able to stick to the mission we have always sought to uphold: to create art for the people. That’s why we do what we do.” AM

Fine Print

This page: A sample of screen prints from Dos Bandidos. Opposite: Inside their Charleston-based studio

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

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SOUTHERNSPOTLIGHT Severn Made Supply Co.

Tough As Leather A few items from Severn's product line; Jeremy Severn in his studio

by Tara Bailey

Charleston Southern University. Today, he works full-time as a bartender while spending three or four hours a day making original leather goods by hand. While most people would take advantage of the occasional day off to rest, Severn instead heads to his workshop—a converted guest room inside the Goose Creek home he shares with his wife, Megan—and creates wallets, handbags, totes, clutches, mason jar holders, hat patches, and just about anything useful or decorative that comes to mind. His tirelessness is evident in the quality of his work, which appears crafted by an old master rather than a millennial who can’t sit still.

Jeremy Severn, founder of Severn Made Supply Company, has a lot of energy. At just thirty years old, he has spent his adult life working on cell towers, serving in the Air Force, completing an associate’s degree in aviation maintenance, fighting for six years as MMA competitor ‘Lil Beast’, and earning a degree in business and marketing from

A self-taught craftsman who learned by trial-and-error, Severn patiently hand cuts and stitches every piece until it meets his standards. He then presses a stamp of his logo —another one of his creations thanks to his minor in graphic design—onto the finished product. The stamp pulls up the oils of the leather to create a natural contrast to the surrounding color, leaving behind his maker’s

Severn Made Man Leather craftsman Jeremy Severn counts on his values to create a life of experiences and successes.

mark. Once his inventory is in ample supply, he and Megan hit the area markets to sell his wares to locals looking for affordable, quality leather products. To look at the bags hanging in his workshop, one would assume Severn had grown up learning how to make them from a seasoned mentor. It is therefore surprising to learn that he embarked on this venture only three years ago, teaching himself the art of crafting leather goods. It all began when he was tasked with making a journal for a college design class. Though the assignment was simple, he wasn’t satisfied with creating only a visual element; he wanted something with texture as well. Each time he tried to come up with a design, he kept saying to himself, “I want to make it in leather, I want to make it in leather…” The only catch was he didn’t know how. So he researched leather work and found himself with a leather-bound journal of his own making when the project was all said and done. He still has that first journal, bound in a crude, thin piece of leather with rudimentary Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

Severn Made Man

Made To Last

A custom leather handbag; a durable drink holder

stitching. It’s a far cry from the wallets and messenger bags he currently makes, but a worthy first effort and enough to inspire him to try working with leather again. Though he laughs at the journal today, he credits it with leading him to his current endeavor. As Severn branched out into making different leather products, his friends took notice and began requesting pieces for themselves or to give as gifts. Eventually, he honed his skills to the point where he felt comfortable asking people to part with their money in exchange for his creations. He decided to test the waters and entered a local show where he could sell his goods. The experience was a success, and during his spare time he continued producing and selling at Charleston markets, including the Holy City Christmas Market, Thrifters and Drifters at the Royal American, and the Pacific Box and Crate Market in the booming Upper King Street area. It was around this time when Severn began feeling ready to transition out of his MMA career. He fought eight times as an amateur and seven as a pro, training all day while juggling college classes, nurturing a young marriage, and teaching himself leather work. Disappointed after two back-to-back losses, he noticed that things were falling into place in other areas of his life. Severn decided to leave fighting to focus on school, Megan, and making leather goods. Though he loved fighting, he welcomed the contrast in lifestyle. “I always laugh that I went from kicking and getting kicked to making women’s purses. But I take that hunger to train and apply it here. I apply the same work ethic.” While he stays in shape and occasionally teaches kickboxing, he has spent the past three years concentrating on growing his leather business. The market scene also affords him more time with Megan, who works in development for the ARK of Summerville Alzheimer’s Family Support Services. She accompanies her husband to markets and shows, assisting in sales, keeping the books, meeting other local artists and craftsmen, and forming a supportive niche of friends. The

workshop in the Severns’ home is adorned from top to bottom in local art bought at the various shows they attend alongside stickers advertising local businesses. Severn points out his favorites and says, “Every time I go to an event I try to get something from a local artist. It’s inspiring.” Ironically, Severn never saw himself as an artist other than when fighting. He views mixed martial arts as its name describes, an art, and says he approached each competition as “creating my masterpiece of a fight.” So when he chose graphic design as a minor, it was simply to complement his marketing major, not because he had any experience or knowledge in art and design. In fact he says, “I’m not an artist by any means. I never could draw or anything like that, but I saw ‘graphic design’ and thought I would see where it goes.” Goals for the future of Severn Made Supply Company include branching out to offer more products, developing into a lifestyle brand for loyal and future fans of his work, and acquiring a brick-and-mortar store and studio. He recently launched his website, severnmade.com; it should come as no surprise that he developed the site himself. When he talks about eventually operating Severn Made Supply Company full-time, he doesn’t hesitate to say, “When, not if.” He prides himself not just in the caliber of his work but also the accessibility of it. “I’m still working on getting the right price point, but I never want anything to be too expensive. So many people want good, quality leather that they can afford. I want to make a profit but still provide that.” The man whose former career includes strength, agility, balance, and quick reflexes has transferred those qualities into his current business. While striking a balance between his professional life and his personal life, Severn continues learning new skills while also creating inventory. His agility is apparent in his stitching and precise use of a skiver to peel away leather until it reaches the necessary dimension. He relies on his strength to keep him moving throughout each long day and his reflexes to make business decisions that will lead to his goals. He is at once a fighter, businessman, and artist. At the moment, Severn is most excited about his new website, as he has been fulfilling requests from beyond the South Carolina Lowcountry for a while now. He

recently finished a custom piece for a woman who sent him her grandfather’s 1950s leather mailbag to be transformed into a purse. Severn figured out how to work the old leather and piece it together into what she wanted while using a limited amount of irreplaceable material. Needless to say, the result exceeded her desires. She is not alone in seeking out Severn’s work; he has sent his products to people across the country and looks forward to seeing how far his efforts will ultimately go. If local demand is any indication, Severn will be sleeping even less than he does now. For now, though, he will continue to be a presence at markets and art shows, building business, friendships, and a name for himself in the world of respected artisans. AM

People, Places, and Quilts Rock, Paper, Scissors / Scissors, Fabric, Machine! Prices Vary. Unique whimsical fabrics, kits, sewing and quilting supplies. ppquilts.com

East Winds Charleston bracelets by Alex and Ani $34 134 S. Main St.

Art Central Gallery â&#x20AC;&#x153;Linwoodâ&#x20AC;? watercolor print by Mary Ann Bridgeman $45 artcgalleryltd.com

Piazza Home This Bosom Buddy bag adorned with a ribbon and shell is perfect for summer. More styles available. $155 127 Central Ave.

d Hanebrink Jewelers Thorsten bands are made from gold or contemporary metals. They feature various unique inlays such as wood, meteorite, lava, and dinosaur bone! Starting at $80 Visit our Website. 112 S. Main St.

Antiques and Artisans Lotions and teas by Charleston Tea Plantation Prices Vary 140 W. Richardson Ave.

Every Thing Chic~ETC Flamingo fadora and earrings. Hat $15 Earrings $12 126 S. Main St.

Millie Lewis Models & Talent Modeling, acting, and etiquette workshops, pageant training, and auditions for local, regional, and national exposure/representation runway, print, TV, and film. Prices Vary millielewischarleston.com

30 AZALEAMAG.COM ALL Summer SH2018 O PS A R E W IT H IN WA L K ING D I STAN C E I N H I STO RI C D OW N TOW N S U M M E RVI L L E

Super Bowl

A hearty bowl of peanut sweet potato soup; Renée Orth

SOUTHERNSPOTLIGHT Stone Soup Collective

Bowls of Change

Armed with basketfuls of produce and an open heart toward her community, Renée Orth facilitates positive—and delicious—change. by Jana Riley

Renée Orth stirs the long-handled spoon around in the stock pot, blending the flavors of a long-simmering soup together. Today, she is making peanut sweet potato soup, created from the excess produce of a local farm. She dips a spoon into the pot and brings it to her lips, tasting it, then smiles. “They’re going to love it,” she says confidently. A small team, armed with handfuls of disposable spoons, bowls, and napkins, gathers behind her as she ladles the soup into a smaller pot. Once everything is ready, they head outside, eager to serve hungry senior citizens what may be their only warm

meal of the day, free of charge. Orth greets each one of the visitors by name, exchanging pleasantries and hugs while checking in with them about their lives. She is beaming, sharing a contagious smile that brings a burst of sunshine into this space. That smile—and these bowls of soup—are just a small part of the myriad ways Renée Orth gives back to her community, and with her indomitable spirit, the sky's the limit for how impactful her journey is here in the Lowcountry.

having been born and raised in Los Angeles, California. As a child, she was idealistic, daydreaming about making the world a better place through any number of career paths and lifestyles. She settled on studying to be a lawyer at the University of California at Berkeley, imagining all of the people she could help by representing them in the court of law. After graduation, she worked with clients in general civil litigation cases, but couldn’t shake the feeling that she wasn’t where she needed to be.

Orth is a fairly recent transplant to the area,

“While I enjoy being a lawyer, practicing law Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

Bowls of Change

feels far removed from directly addressing the greatest needs of our communities,” Orth explains. “I was and am much more interested in being the ‘boots on the ground.’” Looking for a way to bring healthy food to her city while giving back to her neighbors in need, Orth started a company making and selling organic salads, distributing the leftovers to the homeless on Venice Beach. Orth, a vegetarian since age 13 and vegan for 5 ½ years, never received any formal culinary training, but her passion for creating delicious meals out of nutritionally dense ingredients made up for any lack of education. The experience of making healthy meals for those who need it most was impactful, and when Orth moved to Charleston with her partner a couple of years ago, she brought with her inspiration from her days feeding the hungry. Not long after she landed in Charleston, Orth began a venture called the Stone Soup Collective, a nonprofit with a mission to “bring people together through soup.” Orth sources produce from Growfood Carolina and Jacob Fields Farm, and twice weekly spends the day chopping, stirring, blending, and pouring the soup into jars alongside a revolving crew of volunteers. On Fridays, they produce around 140 bowls of soup, which is destined for hungry senior citizens. The comforting and nutritious soup is ladled into bowls at the Charleston Area Senior Center downtown and brought to communities in need by Pastor Ramsey of Heavenly Angels Worship and Praise Ministry. Pastor Ramsey began working with Orth shortly after she opened up shop, and says the two are a good match. “When I started my ministry, I was surprised by how many elderly people are not able to leave their communities for many reasons,” he says. “So, I come to them. I bring them what they need, and the soup is a big part of that.” For Orth, nourishing her community while fostering relationships is crucial to her mission for the Stone Soup Collective. “We have commodified food to such a degree that we often aren’t connected to it in any way,” she says. “Food plays such an important role in community building; it brings people together. 100 years ago, people tilled the earth together, canned together, cooked together, and ate together. Now, the separation is just increasing

AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

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at an unbelievable rate. This is us recognizing the glue that food can be, and working with that to become healthier and more connected.” In order to fund the whole operation, Orth and her team of volunteers also sell the soup. On Mondays, they use local produce to make soups that will be funneled into labeled jars and distributed at dedicated pickup points around the Lowcountry. With the help of the Stone Soup Collective app, demand is at an all-time high, and return customers can bring their jars back to get $1 off their next soup order, which typically run $7 for a 16-ounce jar. Currently, for every jar purchased, one bowl of soup is donated to a local senior citizen, and the humanitarian aspect is one that Orth sees scores of people wanting to support. Many show their support through purchases of the soup, but others donate time by helping cook, jar, and distribute it, furthering the dream Orth has to bring people together from the first harvest of the produce to the last spoonful of soup consumed. As Orth navigated the world of nonprofits and food distribution around her new state of South Carolina, she began looking around for an organization that connected excess food with those who need it: farms, businesses, and institutions to churches, nonprofits, and food distributors. Finding none, she helped create it: The Tri-county Food Alliance, where she now serves as “conductor.” As the grassroots organization grows, Orth sees limitless potential in what it could do for individuals, businesses, and organizations in the state and in Charleston, as well as the impact it could have on the cycle of food waste.

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Having been active for less than a year, the Stone Soup Collective is still in its infancy, and Orth is focused on sustainable growth. Soon, she hopes to bring in a more permanent employee to help run the organization and manage volunteers and distribution. More than anything, she sets her heart on the ability to feed as many hungry people as possible with the best ingredients she can source. “There are too many people who have food insecurity,” she says. “They don’t know where their next meal is coming from or where their children’s next meals are coming from. I want to see what can happen when we come together to feed and nourish each other. I think we can create real change, one bowl at a time.” AM

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

SUMMERVILLE Azalea Magazine 2017 7.4874x4.8898.indd 1

1/30/17 10:53 AM

Before

Fresh Start The building on Main Street in Summerville got a new lease on life

SOUTHERNSPOTLIGHT

Summer ville DREAM Building Improvement Grant Program

Return on Investment

Quietly toiling away at her downtown Summerville shop for decades, Anna Malloy finally receives the attention she deserves by Jana Riley

Anna Malloy is invested: in her family, in her work, and in her community. Working tirelessly to provide for her clients and evergrowing family of loved ones, Malloy spent decades giving back to the people around her. Finally, thanks to the assistance of new friends and a helpful grant program, Malloy is on the receiving end of thoughtful attention and investment. Born and raised just outside of Summerville, Malloy moved to New York as a young woman, met her husband, Hubert, and brought him right back to where her roots ran deep: South Carolina. She started working in a beauty shop, and soon moved her operation into her garage so that she could keep an eye on her young daughter as she worked. As her child grew into a toddler, things began to get hectic. One day in the early 1980s, an acquaintance called her, offering prime real estate downtown Summerville where Malloy could set up her beauty shop—she just needed $19,000 for the annual rent. Malloy jumped at the chance, and together with her husband, scraped together their savings to afford the place. She began working out of the Main Street location, enjoying the sense of place and the clientele that came in to see her each day. All seemed well until one day, a realtor came in to show the building, and it became clear that the acquaintance who rented the shop to Malloy was renting the place herself, subleasing to Malloy under false pretenses. The building owner was ready to sell, and the future looked bleak for

Malloy and her dream of owning her own beauty shop downtown Summerville. Not one to accept defeat, Malloy asked the realtor if the building owner would finance the building for her, and when he accepted, she sold a treasured piece of property to afford the down payment. Finally, the shop at 111 South Main Street was hers. When it comes to providing for her family and community, Anna Malloy does not take any half measures. She is a notorious hard worker,and her work at D-Ann’s Beauty Salon was unmatched in the Summerville area as she styled client after client. For years, she also opened her home and heart by becoming a foster mother to a young,

pregnant woman in need, and later took custody of one of the girl’s children in an effort to keep him out of the foster care system, raising him from infancy to nearly four years old. She even helped the boy’s mother secure child support payments from the father, stepping up to help when no one else would. At every opportunity, she offered assistance to anyone she saw in need, all while working diligently to provide for her family—both blood related and those who her soul connected with. Then, in 2004, tragedy struck. Her mother was diagnosed with cancer, and not long after, her husband died suddenly of a heart attack. He was just 57 years old. Malloy was devastated, and quickly realized the difficult path that lay ahead of her as a single Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

Return On Investment

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Dream Team Peter Tetrev, Karen Tetrev, Anna Malloy, and Sherri Seymour

parent and business owner. Without warning, Malloy was responsible for everything: raising the children, paying taxes, managing insurance policies, maintaining the beauty shop building, caring for her sick mother, and so much more. It was overwhelming, especially in her grief, but Malloy managed to shoulder the burden. She started working two jobs to make ends meet, teasing tresses at the beauty shop from mid morning until the evening, coming home to take care of the kids, and working as a certified nurse’s assistant overnight, only resting at sporadic intervals. For ten years, she kept up this rigorous schedule while maintaining the beauty shop building and caring for her other loved ones, until finally, exhausted by the physical and financial burdens, she decided it was time to begin a new chapter of her life. She reached out to a friend for help finding a realtor, and was soon sitting down with Sherri Seymour of The Boulevard Company, talking about selling the property at 111 South Main Street. Seymour took one look at the building and knew that the facade was detrimental to the prospect of a sale. With crumbling, faded paint, an exposed external air conditioning unit, broken windowpanes, and more, the exterior of the building was in rough shape. Thinking on her feet, Seymour did some research about local business grants, hoping to find some assistance with upgrading the building. Before long, she stumbled upon the perfect match for Anna Malloy’s needs: the Summerville DREAM Building Improvement Grant Program. At Summerville DREAM, the mostly volunteer-based organization focused on promoting and improving Downtown Summerville for residents and visitors alike, the team is always looking for new ways to engage with those who live and work in the historic district while beautifying the town. While brainstorming ways to get more involved with individual property owners, Executive Director Michael Lisle and the team behind the organization’s Economic Vitality Committee became inspired by building improvement grants that other South Carolina cities offered within their town limits. Seeing the opportunity to connect with those they most wanted to reach while improving the overall sense of place of Downtown Summerville, the Economic Vitality Committee opted to create a similar program locally, working closely with an organization called Main Street South Carolina to customize the program based on the needs of the town. The result was the Building Improvement Grant program, which they called the “B.I.G. Idea.” Immediately, the

team began to source funding for the impending grants, led by Sarah Wiggins, volunteer and head of the Economic Vitality Committee. It did not take long before Wiggins had secured financial support from Miler Properties, Con Chellis Allstate, and the Greater Summerville/ Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce. To celebrate the exciting development, State Farm insurance agent Tony Pope sponsored the kickoff party in October of 2017. When a property owner submits an application to be considered for a DREAM Building Improvement Grant, they first assess what needs to be done to the front of their building. The grant will cover awnings, paint, and signage with a maximum budget of $5000. Then, they submit a request for approval from the Town of Summerville and the Board of Architectural Review along with paint color samples, photo examples of new amenities to be added, sign renderings, and anything else that can be used to illustrate the desired final product. Once approved, they submit their application to Summerville DREAM, who reviews the request and makes a final decision. If the property owner makes the stated improvements on their building within 90 days of funding being granted, Summerville DREAM will reimburse them 50% of the project costs, up to $2,500. Shortly after its inception, the DREAM Building Improvement Grant enabled three separate business owners to update the facades of their buildings, but it wasn’t until Anna Malloy applied that the DREAM team realized the true impact the program could have on their community and its members. After Anna Malloy’s realtor, Sherri Seymour, discovered the grant opportunity, she quickly got in touch with her client, who was thrilled at the prospect of assistance. Though Malloy was always adept at keeping things afloat and making ends meet, no matter the circumstances, times had gotten hard; she needed help to get the building to a sellable point so that she could finally ease into

Return On Investment

some semblance of a retirement. Understanding this, Seymour contacted Peter and Karen Tetrev, whose companies, Cornerstone Construction and Pearl Home Solutions, work in tandem on home repairs, remodeling, and design. With the team in place, Seymour helped Malloy submit an application to the town of Summerville and the DREAM board, and once approved, they got to work. Karen Tetrev consulted on color scheme and design, while Peter Tetrev (and their three sons) did trim repairs, removed the old air conditioning unit, painted, and installed awnings. They enlisted the help of a local painting company, 1st Class Painting and Restoration, who sent over a representative from the local nonprofit, FreshStart Visions, to perform the work. A quick explanation of the neighbor in need resulted in Sherwin-Williams on Main Street donating paint and supplies for the project, and others contributed help and financial support behind the scenes. The team completed the project in five weeks, transforming the exterior of 111 South Main Street from dilapidated to distinguished. When it comes to dreaming about the future--a future where her building is sold and her retirement beginsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Anna Malloyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans are selfless, just like the woman herself. After paying off her mortgage and debts, Malloy wants to donate to a number of chosen people and organizations, the first of whom would be the Tetrev family, in an effort to pay their kindness forward. Then, she plans to help her two children and grandchildren, further investing in their lives as she has done for decades. Finally, Malloy wants to settle in to a life of service, helping senior citizens, young women in group homes, and women in domestic abuse situations. Never one to put herself first, Malloy hopes to spend her days brightening the world around her and giving to those who may be overlooked. After learning about the needs of Anna Malloy and seeing the way the community gathered around her in assistance, the DREAM team is more inspired than ever to continue their Building Improvement Grant Program. As they move into the next round of funding, they hope to find more sponsors who would be willing to support the financial requirements of the program. Additionally, they hope to encounter more people like Anna Malloy: impeccable stewards of the community who could use a little attention from those around them. As it bridges people together in support of a common mission to serve, the Summerville DREAM Building Improvement Grant program is beautifying more than the facades of commercial buildings, it is inspiring a culture of kindness. AM

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

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N AT U R A L WOMAN

The Hunger Games No matter your nutritional preference, it is comforting to know that you are not on the menu by Susan Frampton

ur relationship with food is complicated. There are those who live to eat, and those who eat to live. To me, the latter is an idea as crazy as naked bungee jumping. Food may be the fuel that runs our bodies, but for some of us, it’s the unending quest to keep it healthy and exciting that runs our lives.

Archaeologists once divided us into hunters and gatherers. If art imitates life, cave paintings show us that food kept CroMagnon man quite literally running for his life, dodging giant raptors to bring home the brontosaurus. Back at the cave, Mrs. Cro-Magnon spent long days gathering nut and berry side dishes for the clan while keeping the broth boiling on the recently-discovered fire. Food was hard earned, but there

were still advantages to the Paleolithic era. Never, ever did the caveman inquire, “What’s for dinner?” There were no temper tantrums by troglodyte tykes whining for McMastadon nuggets, and those daring to roll their eyes at the same supper sixteen nights in a row dismissed as Neanderthals. Feeding the family has come a long way since our entrees were as likely to consume us as they were to be consumed, though grocery stores on double coupon days are like a chapter straight out of The Clan of the Cave Bear. What’s for dinner may no longer involve prehistoric beasts, but whether one is an omnivore, carnivore, pescetarian, vegetarian, or vegan, it takes no small amount of effort and imagination to put together three squares a day. We think about it a lot, and I know that I don’t stand alone in the pantry searching for inspiration, or wandering the gro-

ILLUSTRAT ION BY JASON WA G E N E R Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

N AT U R A L WOMAN

cery aisles wishing that someone would invent new food. Recently, I discovered there actually is a world of food out there that I never knew existed. We met up with a vegan friend of ours at a downtown restaurant that featured an eclectic menu and many vegan options. Her dietary choices have rewarded her with glossy hair and skin as fresh as a summer berry, so I was interested to see what her dinner choices might be. Maybe this was a path I could take toward expanding my grocery cart’s repertoire.

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My husband is a notoriously picky eater. Over the top of the restaurant’s menu, I saw panic in his eyes. “I don’t even know what some of this stuff is!” he whispered. My husband is a notoriously picky eater. Over the top of the restaurant’s menu, I saw panic in his eyes. “I don’t even know what some of this stuff is!” he whispered. Like an interpreter at the United Nations, our friend patiently explained each item as we went down the list of appetizers and entrees. She described freekeh

as a whole-grain wheat cereal, roasted and rubbed to create a unique, nutty flavor. It sounded delicious to me, but I remembered the uphill battle I’d fought just to introduce brown rice at our house, and that quinoa was still a dirty word. “Not eating cereal,” my husband said, taking the freekeh-dusted kabob option off the table. The squid ink tagliatelle was a nonstarter—its accompanying pilpelchuma, which she described as a potent, chili-and-garlic paste, further confirmed its elimination. We were all flummoxed by the Israeli salad. I’m cautiously adventurous about food that doesn’t look or taste like fish, but I take few chances. On one audacious culinary outing, I tried a bite of a dinner companion’s seaweed salad. I don’t know what I expected, but I do remember imagining a dirty sponge and a goldfish in a blender. Generally speaking, my husband shares my fish-phobia, so when he announced, “I’ll have the fish,” I feared it would not end well. At a party, I once watched across the room in horror as he ate a cracker loaded with caviar. It was one of those moments reminiscent of a dream where you’re running through mud in slow motion, yelling “Nooooo!” in a voice that sounds like Darth Vader gargling marbles. “They should put signs on stuff like that,” he wailed hours later on the drive home, making spitting sounds and scrubbing at his tongue with a Kleenex. “I thought it was blackberry jam. It was fish eggs!” Despite the uncertain start of

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our meal at the restaurant, our dinner out was outstanding. I went carnivore with steak, although I branched out with the accompanying muhammara, a delicious relish/sauce concoction of walnuts and pomegranates. Surprisingly, my husband’s only grumble was that he wished for a more substantial serving. I came home and Googled muhammara—first because it was pretty tasty, and second because it might make my hair glossy. I quickly realized I didn’t have a clue as to where one might find the requisite pomegranate molasses to make it. Ditto, freekeh. I also recognized that it might be a bit late in the game to attempt to reprogram my family’s pedestrian palate and that I don’t want to have to wander even farther afield to gather for my clan. I went to bed last night thinking about what I would have for breakfast this morning and had lunch on my mind before I finished my toast and coffee. Headed out to the grocery store to participate in the weekly hunger games, I mused that the most danger I might face would be risking a limb to grab the last buy-one-getone-free jar of peanut butter from the shelf. I stopped for a moment to silently salute the cave dwellers; those who walked almost-upright into history never knowing. We will be a long time studying the writing on cave walls chronicling early man’s complicated relationship with food. What we know makes me a little embarrassed to whine about the variety and the convenience we enjoy by comparison. If it ever comes down to it, I’ll try to keep an open mind about squid ink tagliatelle and be grateful that I’m not on the menu. AM

K ID S THESE D AY S

Just Being There by Tara Bailey

he women were gathered around a table of hors d’oeuvres early on a Friday evening, wine glasses filled to capacity to soften the mood and facilitate conversation without too much struggle. Hugs were shared, small talk was exchanged, and laughter came more easily than was expected. The laughing may even have felt a tad miraculous, though it shouldn’t have. Laughter in the midst of shared sorrow is one of life’s gifts, or maybe it’s simply a survival mechanism adapted to relieve the body of its intractable hold of stress. Either way, the women took it, and gladly. The women were there to support one of their own who had recently entered the incomprehensible world of child loss. Abrupt, unrelenting grief consumed this group, brought together through that ancient tribe formed of common customs and beliefs known as the church. They knew that their fellow mother could not suffer

alone, nor should the thought of doing so ever enter her mind. It had been two weeks since she had formally memorialized her son at their sacred gathering place, their church grounds, and the women could not pretend that the time following such an event was suddenly normal. So they assembled with the aforementioned nourishing elements and talked about life—and death—with their fellow mother. Her teenaged son had died unexpectedly one night after playing driveway basketball with neighborhood friends. She panicked when he initially fell to the ground with chest pain, as the boy’s father had died of an aortic dissection years earlier. Shockingly and unfairly, another aortic dissection led the boy to join his father later that night. A mother’s panic is supposed to be irrational, not vindicated. The following morning, as the tragic news was relayed to others,

ILLUS TRAT ION BY JASON WA G E N E R Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

KIDS THESE D AY S disbelief was both palpable and audible throughout the community; the schools were filled with distraught children who should never know such pain, tearful phone calls and anguished text messages were flying through the cell towers, and many adults couldn’t even make it to work. This beloved member of the community, her other children, and her own mother were suffering loss once again. And nothing and no one could stop grief ’s tireless march through their souls. How does one go on? No one knows the answer, so everyone acts in a mad rush to figure it out. When people went to see the mother on that sad morning after, there was no place to park within view of her house. Heartache pulsated from the front porch as visitors clutched each other’s heads in rough hugs, leaving food on the counter and tear streaks on each other’s clothes. The mother was made physically small by this cruel turn, accepting comfort where it was offered and answering that all she wanted was her son to that sincere yet meaningless question, “Is there anything we can do?” The pastor, an eloquent man who usually condenses life’s mysteries into sensible analogies, stood among those standing in her living room and conceded, “There’s nothing we can say. Nothing we say will make her feel better. We can only be there.” So there we were. We were there that day. We were there later that week. We were there in the following days bearing food, drinks, flowers, sympathy, distraction, and memories. We were there for the memorial service that a just world would never have warranted. We were there following that service so the day wouldn’t feel so long—or maybe so it wouldn’t end so soon. We could say nothing that would bring comfort, but we could be there, so we were. Yet as grief trudged slowly on, so did time. The next week found some 46 AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

families leaving town for spring break while others were mired in work, placating bored children instead. High school seniors were crazed with college acceptances while juniors were distracted with their first prom. People eventually became less preoccupied with the tragedy that taught so many unsuspecting kids a cruel lesson on how arbitrary fate can be. But for the mother and her family, the pain was just as raw as it had been on that first merciless night. While no one had forgotten her suffering, the women needed to show her that they remembered it. So the women were there that Friday night. It was early spring, just beyond Easter, a time tradition considers one of renewal and lightheartedness. The women tried to lighten their hearts to match the season and restore a bit of their friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own broken heart. She was glad to see them, or seemed to be, smiling and accepting pours of chilled wine like women are supposed to do on warm April evenings. No one else there could know the pain that throbbed beneath her smile, but they wanted to do their best to relieve it. So they told stories about her son, letting her know that they would never forget him nor stop talking about him. They talked about his smile and how so many of his female peers were charmed by it. They told her about the many times he spent at a friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house, engaging in benign mischief. The time he retrieved another familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cat out of a tree. The time he stopped to help younger kids to their feet on a church ski trip. The times he led his Boy Scout troop with humor and direction that came to him naturally. The stories poured with the same ease as the wine, and the women knew it was necessary to let this mother know that they would confront pain and death in order to remind her that her son was important, and so was she. And that she was not alone and never would be. AM Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

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Beautiful Blemish by Lili Hiser

recently came across a nearly fourteen-yearold photo of my husband at an auto dealership grinning next to his shiny new car. That cobaltblue four-door sedan was his first big purchase. In typical Greg-style, over the years he has attempted to keep it in immaculate condition with regular waxes and interior detailing. Today it still runs well, but the outer appearance has taken some hits— literally. A few years ago, a hail storm showered the car in dings. On the side, there’s a scratch or two I may have contributed. The bumper is cracked from a deer collision on one memorable early morning commute. The most notable cosmetic complication, ironically, is

the peeling of the clear UV paint seal, meant to protect the paint from fading. In short, it looks like a college student who forgot to use sunblock over Spring Break. Blotchy and discolored, the car sports some rust and dents and is far from the gleaming chariot in the old photo. On occasion, we make light-hearted comments about the car’s appearance, but recently on a date night I could tell that Greg’s tone was more serious. As we left the movie theater, we walked hand-in-hand toward the passenger side door. Greg said, “I feel embarrassed having such a pretty lady get into such a rough-looking car.” His words pierced my heart. I gathered my thoughts and, as he put the keys into the ignition, I grabbed his hand before he could turn them. I took this moment to

ILLUSTR AT ION BY JASON WA G E N E R Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

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LIFE & FA I T H

explain how proud I am to be seen with him and the car. It is paid off and runs great, which makes any vehicle beautiful in my eyes! We could pour money into a new paint job and body work, or even buy another one, but as a family with three young children, our budget would be stretched thin. Our ability to go on family outings and dates, pay off the college loan faster, and give more charitably would suffer. I summarized my thoughts with this: the faded spots and rusty scratches are not blemishes, but reminders of our financial freedoms. The world pressures us to believe that imperfections and flaws are negative. But I believe a “blemish” is defined by perspective. The sixinch scar on my lower abdomen is a daily reflection that my childbirth complication would have been deadly in another era. Yet the scar means life to me. In our living room sits a brown leather recliner with the faint remains of dried pink paint on the seat. A reminder that we cannot turn our heads and leave the kids unsupervised—but more importantly, God blessed us with children. The paint stain means family to me.

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The lesson I am learning, as a girl who still admires pretty and shiny new things, is that we should not gather our happiness from material items or outer beauty. It will all fade, like the car paint. The book of Ecclesiastes reminds us that seeking joy in worldly things is as fruitful as chasing the wind. When you recognize true value, the world around you alters in appearance. In what was once an obvious imperfection a deeper meaning may lie secluded, and in the most unexpected of places beauty can be found—even in an old, beat-up blue sedan. AM Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

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Mix and Match An antique five-drawer dresser with modern accents complements the couple's signature look

Circle of Success

Bringing new life to a house in a North Charleston neighborhood, Melanie and Kevin Kiernicki create a new ring in an ever- widening circle by Susan Framlton

photos by Amanda Seifert

t is a warm, late spring day in North Charleston, and the residents of Park Circle are taking advantage of the mild weather, strolling along sidewalks, dining at outdoor cafes, and soaking in the sunshine. The neighborhood, tucked just off the well-beaten corridor between I-26 and the Cooper River, is one of North Charlestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-kept secrets, but if the busy street scene is any indication, word of the urban oasis is spreading fast. The peaceful walkability of Park Circle that drew Melanie and Kevin Kiernicki from apartment living in downtown Charleston to the comfortable pace of the neighborhood in North Charleston they now call home is on full display in tree-lined streets and gardens that were once part of a grand, planned community. Their decision a year ago to take on the

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brick 1930s Colonial fixer-upper made for an exciting project, and their ideas for transforming the traditional home to the minimalist style they favored had them redesigning the space almost as soon as the ink dried on the closing papers. Transformation is not a new notion for the city and neighborhood that have known so many highs and lows. But from the boom of its early days as a cutting-edge conceptual community to the dark days following the closure of the shipyard and Navy base, North Charleston has continued to reinvent itself. As the Kiernickis discovered when they began searching for a location with the convenience of an urban setting, and a family atmosphere for raising their young daughters; modern-day North Charleston strikes that perfect balance. Inside, against a canvas of white walls, the

Vintage Revival Clockwise from top left: A sleek yet rustic living room; patterned flooring adds a pop of color to the clean, white kitchen; a vintage record player cabinet

couple’s home draws the eye to the warm, mellow colors of natural woods and organic textures that bring the outside into the room. Light pours in from every direction, adding to the serenity of the living room, a place where Toby the cat regularly curls up on the sofa for his morning nap. Outside the French doors, Charlie the dog barks for equal time. The clean lines and uncluttered space reflect the minimalistic style that Melanie adopted by necessity when the couple made an earlier move from a large house to an apartment of less than 1000 square feet.

Natural Light With thoughtful arrangement, a small space can be a comfortable retreat; a mix of vintage and modern neutral pieces creates a cozy dining space for friends and family

“We had a big house in the suburbs, and when we decided to move downtown, we had to downsize considerably. It was hard, but it helped us realize the things that worked in our home and the things we had no use for. We've carried that over to this house.”

Melanie’s clever garage-sale finds stand amidst console and side tables from local interior stores as though they were always meant to mingle. The brick chimney the couple uncovered when they opened up the wall to the kitchen lends a rustic authenticity to the room, as does the oldstyle, manual typewriter atop a thick slab of wood Kevin finished as a sofa table. As Melanie moves from room to room, generously sharing her family’s connection to each space, soft music from the dining room creates a welcoming ambiance for the dining room’s eclectic mix of modern and time-honored elements. A 60s-inspired media console holds their turntable and vinyl collection. “We always have music playing, and we always eat at the dining table,” she says. “The girls love to choose from their very own music collection.”

The starburst-patterned tilework chosen for the kitchen floor is a colorful foundation for the bright space where everything is beautifully organized to be just within reach. The butcher block topping the surrounding counters and the cut-through from the dining room begs for little chefs to perch on stools to help mom in the kitchen. Upstairs, three-year-old Lucy is having a nap, but a knock on Penelope’s door reveals the light lavender hue she chose herself for her bedroom walls. When her mother calls for the four-year-old to show us her room, a tiny voice from the closet announces that Penny “is disappeared.” She is shy today, but it is clear that she shares her mother’s sense of style, for her books, neatly arrayed on low shelves, and bins of toys are well-organized for the next play date. Sunlight illuminates the hallway leading to the sea of tranquility that is Melanie and Kevin’s bedroom. Here, another of Melanie’s discoveries, a chest inlaid with copper detailing that is rich with the greenish patina of age, is a work of art in itself. Anchoring the room, the ironwork bed with fresh white linens completes the simple elegance of the relaxing retreat. “We looked at about five different houses in the area. Even though it needed a lot of work, when we saw this one, we just fell in love.” It took a lot of hard work, and for weeks before they moved in, Kevin came straight to the house from work every afternoon. He did most of the work on the house himself. “We hardly saw him for the first three weeks!” The hard work and eye for design have paid off for the family, and they love the lifestyle that the Park Circle neighborhood affords them. “There are still so many projects left to do,” she says, “but even as it stands, we have so much more space for the girls. And we’re within about 15 minutes of anywhere we want to go. It's where we were supposed to be. We absolutely love it here.” With their energy, imagination and hard work, Melanie and Kevin Kiernicki have brought new life to the house they now call home. As Park Circle continues to reinvent itself, they can look proudly at the contribution they have made to the neighborhood's transformation, knowing that they are one of the vital rings in a beautiful and ever-widening circle of success. AM

Kitchen Aid The galley kitchen is a great example of form and function

SUMMER LOVIN' p g. 5 8

W I L D AT H E A RT p g. 6 8

All Smiles Fresh strawberries at Kings Market on Edisto Island

WELCOME TO T H E C LU B p g. 7 4

SUMMER LOVIN' THE P E R F EC T A C A R O L IN R E M M SU

JANA RILEY

Model photos by DOTTIE RIZZO Aerial photos by VIRGIL BUNAO Model shoot produced by MARGIE SUTTON

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Sun Day Ready to hit the water at Edisto River Adventures in Ridgeville, SC

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CATCH AN OUTDOOR MUSIC SHOW

he Lowcountry is a magical place, one which tourists the world over flock to for its incredible food, breathtaking scenery, and activities galore. Time and time again across various forms of media, the Charleston area is billed as one of the top vacation destinations in the world, and for good reason. Locally, as we go through the motions of every day living, we can, for a moment, lose sight of how privileged we are to live in such a wonderful place, but a jog over the Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge at sunset, a drive down a winding country road, a moment spent basking in the wonders of Angel Oak, a good time had at a suburban cookout, or an evening spent at any number of the excellent culinary institutions in this city quickly puts things back into perspective. As if we weren’t blessed enough here in the Lowcountry, many of the offerings of the entire state of South Carolina are within a half day’s drive or less, bringing a limitless number of activities, adventures, and attractions within easy reach. Here, we share a few of our favorite ways to spend a summer day, but by no means is this a comprehensive list of all the state has to offer. We encourage you to get inspired by our suggestions, try a few new experiences, and discover (or rediscover) your own favorite way to enjoy the idyllic days of a Carolina summer. Happy adventuring!

We’d be hard-pressed to consider a better way to listen to music than alfresco; something about the way the wind picks up the sounds of the instruments, the natural landscape, and the open air makes any concert enjoyed outside feel like a unique performance. Luckily, on any given night in South Carolina, singers and musicians can be found on coffee shop porches and restaurant decks, taking advantage of our state’s mild climate while happily sharing their talents. On a larger scale, there are the music festivals and recurring outdoor concerts. The Carolina Country Music Festival in Myrtle Beach ( June 7-10) is perhaps the grandest production in the state, featuring internationally known

artists such as Luke Bryan, Toby Keith, and the Zac Brown Band. In the Charleston area, music aficionados can enjoy tunes free of charge on the first Thursday evening of each month at North Charleston’s Marsh Jam at The Bend, taking in Ashley River views while listening to homegrown music. Free live shows can be found friday nights at Palmetto Brewery downtown Charleston, where delicious beer is brewed right on site. Wednesday nights, just 15 miles outside of Charleston, the ever-popular Barn Jam at Awendaw Green is a family and dog-friendly event that lasts well into the evening. And in Summerville, the new Knightsville Porch Jam is a free, once-a-month event bringing up to 15 different artists to the stage in a family-friendly atmosphere. No matter where you are located, and no matter what your taste in music, there is an outdoor music event sure to bring you joy.

Art Walk This page: Inside the Gibbes Museum of Art. Opposite: The Zac Brown Band; cliff diving at Lake Jocassee

SWIM IN LAKE JOCASSEE In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains lies an unsung treasure of the Southeast: Lake Jocassee. The 7,500 acre, 300-foot-deep body of water is actually a reservoir created by Duke Power in 1973, fed by the cool rivers of Appalachia. Featuring some of the cleanest and clearest water in the Southeast, the lake is a worthy spot to cool off in the dog days of summer, and there is no better place to do so than Devil’s Fork State Park, the only public access

point for the lake. Visitors often set up on the far side of the lake near the park’s welcome center, picnicking on the shore and swimming in the shallow water at the lake’s edge. Onsite boat rentals offer canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, and stand up paddle boards, while a boat ramp allows visitors to explore the waters to their heart’s content. Around the lake, waterfalls only accessible by boat await intrepid adventurers, and hiking and nature trails abound within the park. Because of the unspoiled nature of the water, Lake Jocassee is a favorite among scuba divers, and scuba diving charters are offered regularly for trained enthusiasts. Make a weekend—or more—

out of a trip to Lake Jocassee by taking advantage of the area’s countless opportunities for overnight camping, including two campgrounds and a villa within the park itself.

VISIT A MUSEUM As one of the most historically rich cities in America, Charleston has a wealth of options for those who want to learn more about the evolution of the area. Many of the historically significant homes and sites around the Lowcountry have small museums of their own containing artifacts, passionate

docents, and in-depth glimpses into the region and the people who once lived here. Additionally, there are a number of larger operations, including the Charleston Museum, often referred to as “America’s First Museum.” Founded in 1773, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the South including natural and ecological history, with significant photographic displays, historical materials, and zoological collections. Nearby, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry allows young ones to exercise their creative minds through learning and fun activities, with an outdoor play garden that is perfect for a breezy summer day. Indoors, the water play room encourages

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private, and group lessons, as well as summer camps and therapeutic work with autistic children, Isla Surf School opens up a whole new world of water-based activity to people of all ages.

DRIVE A BACK ROAD

children to experiment with dams and spillways on a Lowcountry-based water table, connecting them to their region in an exciting way. Also downtown, the Gibbes Museum of Art is an expansive gallery that showcases the largest collection of American art featuring the city of Charleston. Since it opened in 1905, the museum has welcomed countless international artists through its doors, offering a revolving collection of unique creative endeavors that speak to the hearts and souls of its visitors. No matter what your interests may be, there is a museum in the Lowcountry that will educate or inspire your passions; all you have to do is look.

LEARN TO SURF Though most South Carolinians live within an easy day’s drive of a beach, the state is not immediately known for its excellent surfing conditions, but

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to not acknowledge the wealth of opportunity for fabulous surfing experiences along our shores would be a mistake. Indeed, though the waves of the Atlantic are not as intense as the ones crashing along the West Coast of the United States, East Coast waves are perfect for surfers of all abilities; beginners and experts alike can enjoy a day on the water, with everyone riding the board at some point. At Isla Surf School on Folly Beach, owner Peter Melhado is passionate about bringing the sport to locals and visitors alike within the Charleston area. “It’s a great activity for all ages and abilities,” he says. “Because the waves here are smaller than other places, it’s a reasonable goal that in every session, no matter what your ability, you can be riding waves. And because of the mild weather and our wetsuit offerings, you can ride those waves year-round if you’d like.” Melhado and his team pride themselves on being genuine, knowledgeable, and making the surfing experience accessible. With a wide range of options including private, semi-

South Carolina is an environmentally diverse state, and some of the best views can be taken in right from a car window. From the forested foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the dripping Spanish moss of the Lowcountry and everywhere in between, the highways and byways of the state offer a rich experience unlike any other. Stray off the beaten path, take the roads less traveled, and explore to your heart’s content. You may find farm stands bursting with home-grown produce, antique stores full of ancient treasures, kind souls more than willing to share a story or two, picturesque pastures, and so much more. For a truly unexpected experience, you can simply begin heading in an unexplored direction, relying on inspiration and intuition on where to turn. Alternatively, search “SCDOT scenic byways” to find to a list of the scenic byways in South Carolina, including 4 nationally designated and 21 state designated scenic byways, encompassing over 450 miles. The site includes maps, photos, links, and descriptions of each drive, making it easy to plan an adventure near or far. Simply bring a full tank of gas and a spontaneous spirit, and let the road take you to new experiences.

CATCH A MOVIE AT THE DRIVE IN:

In today’s fast-paced world full of technological advances, there is something to be said for slowing down and enjoying an age-old past time. At the drive-in, nostalgia abounds, even among those who have never had the pleasure of enjoying a movie in the open air. Vans and pickup trucks are ideal; with pillows and blankets packed, you can reach a whole new level of cozy, but camp chairs set up outside of a sedan or even kicking back in the front seats of a car work just as well. Most drive-ins offer double features, making the experience worth every penny. Though many of these theaters have shuttered due to the popularity of the multiplex,

a few have stood the test of time in South Carolina. Just a short drive from Charleston, Beaufort’s Highway 21 Movie Theater shows first-run films on two screens and sells classic American roadside favorites at the concession stand. In Monetta, located in Aiken County, “The Big Mo” Drive-In offers three double features each weekend and has a playground for antsy tots between films. At the Auto 25 Drive-In Movie Theatre in Greenwood, customers enjoying the three large movie screens can also choose from delicious dinner specials including homemade pork tenderloin and chili cheese fries. No matter which theater you choose, the experience of watching a movie under the stars is one not soon forgotten.

HOST A COOKOUT Summer days call for bringing friends together, and summer nights keep the party going. As the long days stretch into long evenings, grills across Carolina are fired up, searing all varieties of meats and vegetables. No matter what you serve, you can wow your guests with an easy and refreshing beverage featuring the official fruit of summer: the humble watermelon. Bonus points for serving it out of a scooped-out melon; just slice the bottom to make it flat, cut out a lid, scoop out the innards (reserving them for the drink), and punch a keg tap through the flesh. Tap kits are available online, along with variations of the recipe below. Enjoy! Watermelon Punch

1 seedless watermelon ¾ cup fresh lime juice 1 cup simple syrup 2 cups club soda or one 750ml bottle of gin or vodka

For garnish: Fresh mint leaves Lime slices Slice off the bottom of the watermelon to allow it to stand upright. Cut a “lid” off of the top. Scoop out the brightlycolored flesh, blending it in batches or using an immersion blender. Strain, then combine with the rest of the ingredients. If serving in a punch bowl, add mint leaves and lime slices. If serving in the watermelon or another vessel with a tap, serve garnishes on the side so as not to clog the dispenser. Chill before serving.

CHECK OUT A LOCAL BREWERY In recent years, the amount of breweries dotting the southern landscape has increased drastically, due in part to positive legal changes related to the craft beer industry. As a result, craft beer fans can easily take in many breweries in a day, sampling the brews at each stop. For those without a designated driver, multiple companies, including The Original Pub and Brewery Tours of Charleston, Crafted Travel, and Charleston Brews Cruise, offer tour busses and pre-planned agendas, stopping to sample beverages at microbreweries across the peninsula and beyond. Another option is to pave your own way, opting to take an afternoon to immerse yourself in just one or two breweries. Check out Rusty Bull Brewing Company in North Charleston, a bootstraps venture by two passionate brewmasters, and enjoy live music, ample outdoor seating, and a family-friendly atmosphere. To take in a bigger operation, visit Westbrook Brewing Company, whose distribution now stretches across five states (and can even be found in Europe). Tours of the brewery

are free and offered about once an hour. With nearly two dozen microbreweries in the Charleston area, there is sure to be a place for everyone: you just might have to drink your way through them to find your perfect fit. For a comprehensive list of current and planned breweries in the area, check out charlestonbrewerylist.com.

Making Waves This page: The strawberry fields at Kings Market; Opposite: A surf lesson at Isla Surf School on Folly Beach; Holy City Brewing.

PICK LOCAL PRODUCE A quintessential, almost necessary experience in every person’s life is to eat fruit picked right off the vine or branch, and no place could be finer to experience this pleasure than South Carolina. In the summer, the peaches gleam in the hot sun, ripening to an otherworldly beauty. Blueberries burst into colorful displays, weighing bushes down with their sweet presence. Though most of the “u-pick” farms sell pre-picked produce, there is an element of pride that comes with selecting your idea of a perfectly ripe fruit or vegetable, and children love the opportunity to pick right from the plant. There are a multitude of pick-your-own produce options both near and far; consider adding a stop to an existing road trip itinerary to allow for a beautiful rest stop while gathering healthy car snacks for the drive ahead. In the Charleston area, Boone Hall Farms offers peaches, blueberries, blackberries, and tomatoes in the summer months. In the upstate, Chattooga Belle Farms brings the experience to a whole new level with breathtaking mountain vistas along with the opportunity to pick peaches, nectarines, apricots, figs, muscadines,

grapes, blackberries, and more. Support your treasured local farmer, give back to the environment by helping to cut down on shipment needs, and obtain some of the most delicious produce you’ll ever have, all while having a good time. For a list of pick-yourown farms in South Carolina, visit pickyourown.org and click on South Carolina.

VISIT LAKE MARION Just a short drive from many South Carolina cities is Lake Marion, the largest lake in South

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Happy Camper This page: Camping at Givhans State Park. Opposite:Carowinds is a haven for thrill seekers

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Carolina covering over 110,000 acres. Bordered by Berkeley, Calhoun, Clarendon, Orangeburg, and Sumter Counties, the lake is popular among fishermen due to the amount of submerged trees—the perfect place for fish to gather—and impressive variety of large fish. Featuring 16 boat ramps, 511 miles of shoreline, and mild water temperatures in the summer months, the water is a beacon for outdoor recreation seekers, who come en masse to boat, camp, jet ski, water ski, and swim. Along the shores of Lake Marion, campgrounds and state parks abound. Most popular is Santee Canal State Park, a 2,500 acre area that includes a swimming beach, fishing and boating access, rental cabins, campgrounds, playgrounds, tennis courts, and biking and hiking trails. In Summerton, the 13,000acre Santee National Wildlife refuge offers hunting, fishing, birding, and hiking opportunities along the banks of Lake Marion, with more than a few alligators lounging in the hot summer sun. For golfing with a view, the 18hole Lake Marion Golf Course and the 18-hole Santee Cooper Country Club are open to the public, bringing golfers together on the breezy fairways. Despite all of the activities available around Lake Marion, there may be no better way to enjoy it than to get out on the water, wind in your hair, navigating with intention or spontaneity. Thankfully, there are enough pontoon boat, jon boat, kayak, canoe, stand up paddle board, and fishing boat rental companies to service the entire Lowcountry: simply visit santeecoopercountry.org and navigate to “boat rentals” to find your perfect vessel.

SPEND A DAY AT CAROWINDS Straddling the North and South Carolina line, Carowinds amusement park is a must-visit attraction for all in the Southeast. Built in 1973, the park was the

vision of Charlotte businessman Earl Patterson Hall, who felt a calling to bring the two Carolinas together by way of a theme park after visiting Disneyland in 1956. Today, around two million visitors stream through the gates each year, seeking thrill rides, refreshment, and good, clean, family fun. The park also includes a 27-acre water park called “Carolina Harbor,” access to which is included with park admission. Though Carowinds is a family-friendly affair with more than a few rides for young children, the park also has a strong thrill ride presence, and sports the South’s first stand up roller coaster, the first roller coaster to cross state lines, and the first roller coaster to feature four inversions. Most impressively, the park also hosts the “Fury 325” ride, the second tallest giga coaster and fastest non-launched roller coaster in the world. With speeds up to 95 mph, Fury 325 is the sixth fastest of any coaster in the world, making it a destination for any thrill seeker. In 2013, park owner Cedar Fair Entertainment announced a plan to invest

$50-million in Carowinds, and as a result, every corner of the park has had a major overhaul. Now, everyone from first-time visitors to veteran annual pass holders can experience something new at the most exciting place in the Carolinas.

VOLUNTEER In 1986, the venerable Fred Rogers (of Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood fame) wrote in a syndicated newspaper column about being a child concerned with alarming events in the world. “There was something… my mother did that I’ve always remembered,” he wrote. “‘Look for the helpers,’ she’d tell me. ‘There is always someone who is trying to help.’ I did, and I came to see that the world is full of doctors and nurses, police and firemen, volunteers, neighbors, and friends who are ready to jump in to help when things go wrong.” Mr. Rogers inspired generations of people, and his mother’s words,

passed to millions through her revered son, reads differently as an adult. Instead of being the concerned children we may have been when we first heard Mr. Roger’s comforting voice, we as adults can now become the helpers for those in need. But, why wait for a time of crisis to step in? Across the Charleston area and beyond, there are constant opportunities to volunteer. Find your passion, whether it be for animals, children, the environment, political causes, people with disabilities, senior citizens, or any other area in need, and seek out the countless places that need your help. Many times, volunteer work can be done online or on a flexible schedule. Just type in your interests and location plus the word “volunteer” into your search engine, or visit volunteermatch. org to find opportunities near you. You have the power to make the world a better place; all you have to do is start.

CAMP AT A STATE PARK In South Carolina, there are 30 State Parks, 15 State Historic Sites, one State Resort Park, one State Recreational Area, and one National Park. Comprising over 80,000 acres of protected lands, the parks contain some of the most incredible sights the state has to offer, including waterfalls, mountains, lakes, beaches, rivers, and historic sites. At any given time, scheduled educational programs abound at State Parks across South Carolina, and activity choices seem to be only limited by imagination. With hiking, biking, boating, fishing, swimming, golf, and even scuba opportunities, the ability to be adventurous is ever-present at the parks. Best of all, the South Carolina State Park system contains over 3,000 campsites,

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ensuring that everyone can spend an evening—or more—under a starlit sky. With trailside, equestrian, boat-in, primitive, tent, and RV campsite options, there are enough choices to satisfy any kind of camper. For tips and planning materials, visit southcarolinaparks.com. Don’t forget to pack mosquito repellant!

TUBE THE EDISTO As one of the longest freeflowing blackwater rivers in North America, the Edisto River is a secret treasure tucked away in some of the state’s most rural areas. At over 250 miles long, the Edisto snakes through the landscape, from the red clay-heavy soil of Saluda and Edgefield Counties to the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean near Edisto Beach. Each summer, the waters of this river begin to call to those who are familiar with its charm, welcoming kayakers, swimmers, canoers, and tubers with its gentle current. For Earl Johnson, owner of Edisto River Adventures, warmer weather means helping visitors from near and far make memories on the river, and though he deals in canoes and kayaks, his most popular summer option is, by far, the humble inner tube. Johnson rents them out to bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate outings, and groups of friends large and small, starting them off at his outpost not too far from Givhans Ferry State Park. Tubers bring coolers full of snacks and beverages, waterproof speakers for music, and plenty of sunscreen, and Johnson sends them off, arranging to meet at a pickup spot down the river. The activity is as fun as it is simple, embracing the lazy flow of the Edisto while bringing friends together for a beautiful day on the water. To book your own excursion, visit edistoriveradventures.com. AM

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Lazy River Tubing the Edisto with Edisto River Adventures

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WILD AT

WITH A PASSIONATE BELIEF IN OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR GODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CREATIONS, KEEPER OF THE WILD FOUNDER, JANET KINSER HELPS SET THE COURSE FOR THOSE BORN TO BE WILD

SUSAN FRAMPTON

PHOTOS BY

DOTTIE RIZZO

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hey each weigh less than a pound, but in the blink of an eye, the three bandits in Janet Kinser’s living room can make a grown human weak in the knees. At her feet, swathed in a blanket-filled basket, two tiny raccoon kits chitter softly for attention, each searching for comfort in the touch of the other.

“They wear masks because they steal your heart,” laughs Keeper of the Wild’s founder, crooning softly to a third baby raccoon nestled into the crook of her neck. It is the start of the baby season at the rehabilitation center, and business is already booming. That actually isn’t good news for the non-profit organization Kinser established 35 years ago to care for and rehabilitate sick, injured, orphaned or displaced wildlife for eventual return to the wild. Her crusade began with three frightened baby squirrels made homeless by a tree's removal in the yard of one of her interior design clients. From there, it seemed that injured or abandoned animals increasingly appeared in her path, and it was frustrating that there were no resources to address her questions about how to care for them. At that time, few veterinarians were willing to treat wild animals, and domestic husbandry practices had not proven successful in wild animal rehabilitation. “It felt

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as though God was pointing me to go in this direction,” she says of her decision to become a force of change. In the early years, Kinser gained most of her experience through trial and error. The turning point in her education came about in a most unlikely way. She was helping a friend unpack a shipping box when an article in the newspaper used as packing material caught her eye. That article led her to Lessie Davis, President of the National Wildlife Rehabilitator Association, who became a mentor willing to answer her many questions, and who led her to a national network of wildlife rehabilitators she could phone at any time. Three decades later, as a respected and licensed wildlife rehabilitator in her own right, it is Kinser’s voice on the other end of the line—fielding questions from individuals, organizations and veterinary practices across the country. Her organization now services nine South Carolina counties, and annually takes in over 3,500 animals. She says that over the course of the years, there isn’t much she hasn’t seen. Inside the big barn on Keeper of the Wild’s campus, cages of various sizes and shapes stand ready to receive the influx of

TO THE RESCUE

This page: A young raccoon ready for a bottle. Opposite: Janet Kinser with a newborn fawn; the rescue and rehab center

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baby raccoons, squirrels, and opossums that invariably arrive this season. Baskets and boxes of toys and blankets are washed and waiting to provide the comfort and warmth that hundreds of tiny bodies will need to grow strong and healthy. “This time of year, we hit the ground running every single day,” says Kinser. There are incubators and warming tables in a small “nursery” area, where a dozen baby opossums reside—their disproportionately large ears and crazy bed-head hair-dos resembling a band of furry circus clowns. Across the room in a covered playpen, a week-old fawn stands on wobbly legs to reach the bottle he is hand-fed every three hours. Some of the animals they receive require medical attention and even surgery, which is now possible through coordination with area veterinary centers. While the goal for all is eventual release, some animals, like “Peyton Manning,” a large and incharge red raccoon, have injuries that make them ineligible for emancipation. They become ambassadors for the organization’s outreach programs. From his enclosure, Peyton keeps a watchful eye over two of the center’s most devoted volunteers. The experience and compassion

of retired hospice nurses Pat Eckhoff and Sarah Richardson, who hold bottles and gently cradle small, blanket-wrapped patients, make their contribution invaluable to the round-the-clock care the animals require. Both say that they feel honored to help restore health and dignity to vulnerable creatures that are often overlooked, or viewed as nuisances. Volunteers like Pat and Sarah are the vital facilitators of Keeper of the Wild’s mission, and each volunteer undergoes a training course to provide them with skills they will need for the many different species and circumstances the facility encounters. As each animal’s body and spirit heals and grows, they graduate to increasing levels of independence, and interaction with humans is significantly reduced. Over time, they move to large outdoor enclosures that bring them closer to their natural environments. For a pair of young beavers frolicking in the pool inside their pen, that process will take two years. Passing muster for release will require each to weigh at least 25 lbs. Though she knows it is hard to resist the impulse to bring baby animals home, Kinser is emphatic when she reminds that they should never be considered pets. “We have to remember that it

HEART TO HEART

This page: A few of the dozens of caregivers; a gesture of genuine love. Opposite: A newborn opossum; checking in on the little one

took generations to domesticate dogs and cats, and even after that they can return to a feral state fairly quickly. Trying to make a wild animal into a pet is like trying to make an apple out of an orange. They’re wild at heart, and those instincts are always with them.” With development and deforestation continually encroaching on habitat, and the realization that many are simply not aware of the ways we unintentionally threaten the creatures in our environment, Keeper of the Wild offers education programs for students ages 6 and up, and for adult groups interested in wildlife appreciation and conservation. Among other topics, their programs teach participants how litter affects wildlife, where to find help for an animal in need, and how to care for them while waiting for help to arrive. Kinser is a firm believer in the words of conservationist Baba Dioum, who once said, "In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught." “We have to start by educating the next generation,” she says, echoing the sentiment. “They’re the ones with the greatest

influence on what their parents do today, and what happens tomorrow.” The funding that makes Keeper of the Wild possible comes to the non-profit through tax-deductible donations of money, supplies, food, and proceeds from their annual fund-raiser. All money goes directly to feeding, care, hospitalization and rehabilitation of the animals, and maintenance of the wildlife center. A wish-list on their website provides the many different ways to donate. Time itself is a precious gift, and volunteers are always welcome. Kinser is humble about the critical need Keeper of the Wild fulfills in the future of animals like the masked bandit that she holds close. “We’re a Christian-based organization, and we just feel like we’re taking care of God’s creations, and being good stewards of what he has given us.” She smiles with a tenderness that is bittersweet. “We know the most important thing we can give them is their freedom. Every one of them takes a little piece of you with them when they leave, but if we do our jobs,” she says, stroking a tiny, trusting hand, “by the time they go back into their environment, they are the wild animals they were always meant to be. AM

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

Promised Land Oakland Club hunting cap; protected native pineland

WELCOME TO THE

by Susan Frampton photos by Dottie Rizzo

Placing thousands of acres in conservation trusts, Berkeley Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oakland Club assures that future generations will feel the pride and sense of place the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and traditions inspire.

CLUB

he sun has not yet risen in Pineville when Roger Ravenel turns off the highway to pass through the brick gates of Berkeley County’s historic Oakland Club. Like his father and his father before him, Ravenel makes his way down the dirt road lined with tall pines, past fields where dew hangs heavy on the grass, and wild turkeys scatter like leaves blown before the wind. For sixty-one years, the hunting guide’s mornings have started on this road. Off to the left, from beyond the unique gatehouse fashioned from a massive, hollow tree, Ravenel hears the music of dogs clamoring for his attention. Down the road, the hunters he will soon lead begin their day with a full breakfast offering the usual Southern breakfast fixings, plus pork prepared six different ways: ham, link sausages, sausage patties, smoked sausages, pork chops, and bacon. Well-fortified for the morning’s activities, the hunters head out to the rigs that will take them to the field. When Ravenel began guiding at Oakland Club, they would have traveled by mule-drawn wagons, but today the saddlebags, guns, and lunch supplies have been loaded into trucks behind which trailers haul the actual horsepower that is at the heart of the Oakland experience. At the next stop, Ravenel will load up the most important participants—the team of slender, speckled, fourlegged quail specialists of the canine variety, whose keen noses twitch with anticipation for the day ahead. Reaching the staging area in the field, the hunters mount up. As they walk, Ravenel works the dogs to find coveys of wild quail that might be sheltering under a patch of grass or in a jumble of fallen pine limbs. Hunters dismount when the dogs freeze with tails in the air, noses pointing to the spot they have sensed the birds. For even the most seasoned hunter, the moment quail flush from their 78 AZALEAMAG.COM Summer 2018

hiding place is unequaled for its abruptness and ability to set the pulse racing. In an explosion of reddish brown and white feathers, the birds burst skyward, darting and dancing in an impossible aerial ballet that rockets them out of sight in mere seconds. Success depends on the hunter's ability to anticipate the birds' many twists and turns. Ravenel and the dogs have seen it all—from skilled wingshooter to first-time “street boy.” He gives gentle encouragement to those who need it and says the dogs get frustrated when they don’t get to retrieve downed birds. As they move through the landscape, Oakland’s sure-footed horses know every step on the paths, and the part they play in the tradition of the hunt. Ravenel laughs as he says that he believes the horses can also tell time. “The horses know when lunchtime rolls around. They just stop. Ain’t nobody got to tell ’em what time it is or where to go.” Lunch is cooked every day in the field over a propane stove, offering the guests’ pre-selected options, and afterward, sleeping bags spread across the ground provide comfortable resting places for those interested in a short nap before the hunt continues. Some hunters will be successful, and others will end the day confounded by the elusive bobwhite. No one is guaranteed to achieve their 12-bird daily bag limit, but all will climb down from their horses enriched by the experience and the time spent on the historically significant property. The birds that Ravenel and the hunters have sought after have long given special meaning to the land of the Santee River Basin. Settled by French Huguenots in the late 1600s, the tract of land began as Bluford, a large cotton, indigo, and tobacco plantation. South Carolina’s “Swamp Fox,” General Francis Marion, is thought to have been born nearby, and to have had an encampment in the area’s historic wetlands during the Revolutionary War. Marked by a blue granite tomb, the war hero’s resting place is open to the public in Belle Isle Plantation Cemetery.

A Storied Tradition Clockwise from top left: The stables; hunting guide Roger Ravenel; Francis Marion's gravesite is on the property and open to the public; General Manager Ryan Bowles sees the hunters off. Opposite: The avenue of oaks; gathering for the morning hunt

Summer 2018 AZALEAMAG.COM

Field of Dreams Clockwise from top left: Loading the dogs for one of the four hunt groups of the day; guides lead the hunters through the field on horseback; a bobwhite quail; dogs on point

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In the late 1890s following the Civil War, Northern industrialists became interested in the game-rich land as a hunting preserve, chartering 58,000 acres for a private hunting club. It took three years to survey the vast pine forests, bottomland, and swamps. Though over twenty thousand acres were lost to construction of the Santee Canal and Lake Marion in the 1950s, the pursuit of the bonny brown birds changed little from the turn of the 20th century. But by the 1980s, dwindling wild numbers statewide put the distinctively-marked birds at great risk. Pesticides decimated generations whose habitat was already diminished by development and mechanized farming. Even Mother Nature seemed to conspire against the small game birds. Hurricane Hugo destroyed thousands of acres of pine forests, creating a loss that would take years to overcome. The area’s thousand-year flood left fields and grasslands water-logged and unsuitable for nesting, and devastating cold and ice took a toll on vulnerable young birds. Oakland Club membership had long included many hailed as captains of industry, but few who truly understood the necessity of implementing long-term practices to help restore the wild quail population. When banker and businessman, William “Hootie” Johnson took over the club’s leadership reins in 1990, he engaged new members who recognized the importance of good land and wildlife management. Since that time, there have been changes to the membership, but never has there been a group of participants more committed to the future of the land’s resources, and the preservation of the traditions of the sport of quail hunting than Oakland Club’s current membership. General Manager Ryan Bowles came on board in 2007 to oversee the club’s wildlife and land management, planning, and day-to-day operation, and was also charged with putting into action the conservation philosophy of the membership. Having grown up in nearby Bonneau, SC, and starting his career with SC Department of Natural Resources, Bowles’ innate understanding of the area made him well-suited to oversee the thousands of acres of pineland, and mature bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands. One of the many methods Bowles employs to achieve specific forest and land management objectives is prescribed burning, the skilled application of fire under planned weather and fuel conditions. Often misunderstood by those unfamiliar with the role a controlled fire plays in natural resource stewardship, he and his employees regularly find themselves explaining the concept to those who don’t understand its importance to conservation. Though the practice may seem counterintuitive, according to Darryl Jones, SC Forest Commission Forest Protection Chief, it is recognized by land managers today as “the safest and most efficient means of ensuring the ecological integrity of woodlands, grasslands, agricultural areas and wildlife habitats.” But for all the good management practices Bowles follows on the property, encroachment by industrial development remains one of the greatest risks to the land and lifestyle. Contacted by Raleigh West, Executive Director of Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust, Bowles recognized that the goals of the organization perfectly aligned with the Oakland's commitment to preserving the ecological and cultural significance of its location on the high bluff of the Santee River Swamp. Founded in 1992, Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust (LBCT) has permanently protected nearly 25,000 acres of family farms and forests, rivers and streams, and historic sites. “We believe that stewardship is homegrown,” explains West. “A love for the land is a seed planted in the

hearts of those who own and work the land; and those who appreciate rivers and streams, farms and forests, and historic places. Those who share our passion sustain the work we do.” The membership agreed, and their passion prompted Oakland Club to place 9,500 acres of native pineland, including those that surround the burial site of “Swamp Fox” Francis Marion, into a conservation easement. The nonprofit club's owners donated 70 percent of the easement value, with LBCT and the South Carolina Conservation Bank also contributing funding for the $3.6 million deal. Plans are also underway for funding for an additional 1,800 acres. What does the placement of this privately-owned land into a conservation easement mean to the public? For starters, the Oakland Club easement limits an area the size of Charleston’s peninsula, Daniel Island and Mt. Pleasant combined, to no more than five residences. As a conservation trust, the land is protected in perpetuity from residential, commercial or industrial development. West goes on to explain the impact the easement has on the area’s quality of life. “It protects the pride and sense of place that has identified generations of Berkeley County residents, while preserving valuable water sources, agricultural lands, and wildlife habitat. Visitors to the area will forever be able to enjoy the natural vistas of pine forest and native grasses along the Palmetto Trail and ten miles of public highways.” Oakland Club’s conservation easement also prohibits mining and recreational facilities such as golf courses from being developed on the property, and the landowners donated outright a tract of timberland that will be used to educate local landowners on sustainable forestry practices. It ensures that the unique character of this part of the historic Santee River Basin will remain unchanged, including borders shared with Francis Marion National Forest and Santee National Wildlife Refuge. U. S. Fish and Wildlife sources report that Oakland Club’s voluntary conservation easement provides a vital link in the chain of protected properties that form a corridor of protected wildlife habitat up and down the Santee River floodplain, conserving in perpetuity the lifeblood of the ecosystem of the land surrounding the waterways. The easement also helps to protect several species, including redcockaded woodpeckers, swallow-tailed kites, and the species that built centuries of tradition at Oakland Club—the bobwhite quail. This act of conservation brings renewed hope for the return of a healthy wild quail population, one that will draw the hunting club full circle, back to the healthy, thriving land that once provided the perfect habitat for the small game bird to flourish, and the traditions that celebrate a way of life. As the day draws to an end, Roger Ravenel will return the dogs to the kennels, the horses to the stables, and the hunters to a well-earned seat at the dinner table. He will sit down with Bowles to go over tomorrow’s burn plan, and the two will plan for next weekend’s hunters, which may include heads of state, captains of industry, or perhaps even a knight of the realm. The faces of those who watch the sun rise over longleaf pines and listen for bobwhites whistling in the thickets will change with time. But thanks to the generosity and forethought of those who have placed it in trust, future generations will have a sense of the place it holds in our past and our future —while the land and the bobwhite quail live on. AM

VILLAGE P OET

Back Road by Ellen E. Hyatt

Flanked by blossomed air—a mix of jasmine and Madam Alfred roses—the back road didn't need a name. We knew it led to a river offering fish from its waters, a swimming hole under the waterfall, and—on its ditch bank— rope swings, pendulums from past to future. The summer we were on the brink (of rising to high school in the fall) we tried to smoke. We drank a sweet tea from Janey's Aunt Francie without knowing about its kick. But mostly, we took our childselves and sense of place to the river on the back road. We'd packed into Cash's Chevy, whose front end was misaligned by his daddy's temper. Cash, a year older than us and with a license, felt entitled to chew. His tobaccoed spittin' flew back, as did wind, heat, and humidity making us feel like a wet possum hit us in the face. Cash's girl Belle promised him a kiss if he'd toss the tobacco wad. He did. And nearly drove into the cows crossing to the day pasture. Belle, the kissing expert due to her Grandmama's collecting old classic movies, said kissing was an art, a process to be studied. She showed Cash how to bring his arms 'round her back like Holden did to Novak's in Picnic. We glared and giggled. But each of us would for certain practice later: our arms wrapped around ourselves. Longing to be transfigured to Holden or Novak, we'd press our lips to our bedroom mirror.

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