Skirt magazine October 2018 Issue

FREE OCTOBER | 2018

GET INTO THE

Spirit 10

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR Shelley Hill Young shelley@skirt.com ART DIRECTOR Laura Staiano laura@skirt.com INTEGRATED ACCOUNT MANAGER Susan Norfleet susan@skirt.com PHOTOGRAPHY Aneris Photography, Callie Cranford, Samantha Fuentes, Keely Laughlin, Pale Girl Photography CONTRIBUTORS Misty Antonacci, Gervais Hagerty Del Porto, Holly Fisher, Patricia Williams Lessane, Helen Mitternight, Jackie Morfesis, Allyson Sutton EDITORIAL INTERN Raija Haughn Raija@skirt.com ADVERTISING sales: 843.958.0028 sales@skirt.com BUSINESS MANAGER Cassaundra Tebben cass@skirt.com DISTRIBUTION C&R Marketing Tina Tartaglia EDITORIAL AND SALES OFFICES P.O. Box 579, Charleston, South Carolina 29402 843.958.0028 sales@skirt.com skirt.com PRESIDENT, PUBLISHER Thomas J. Giovanniello, Jr. thomas@holycitypublishing.com

Skirt is published monthly and distributed free throughout the greater Charleston area. Subscriptions are available through www.skirt.com. Subscription rates are $19.95 for 12 issues. Back issues may be obtained by contacting the Skirt offices.

Back issues are $5.99. All contents of this magazine, including without limitation the design, advertisements, art, photos and editorial content as well as the selection, coordination and arrangement thereof, is Copyright© Holy City Publishing, LLC. All rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Postage paid at Charleston, S.C., and additional mailing offices. Skirt is a registered trademark of Holy City Publishing, LLC. Skirt and skirt.com are licensed under the authority of Morris Media Network. Printed in the United States.

Vol. 3 Issue 3 ISSN 2637-3815 (Print) ISSN 2637-3831(Online)

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skirt . | october 2018 3

OCTOBER | 2018

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contents IN EVERY ISSUE

F E AT U R E S Profile: Catherine LaCour

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She’s My Hero

10

Lessons from “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Patricia Williams Lessane

12

Raise Your Spirits with Fall Cocktails

17

Style Revival

20

You Got the Look

23

Enough Yoga

26

Call of the Mermaid by Jackie Morfesis

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Your Spirit Animal Needs you to Roar for Her

by Gervais Hagerty Del Porto

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Forward! Closing the STEM Gender Gap by Misty Antonacci

14

Men in Skirts

30

Skirt Table

32

Skirt Community

34

Skirt Wellness

36

Skirt Calendar

40

Don’t Skirt the Issue

44

on the cover

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PALE GIRL PHOTOGRAPHY On Alexandria Jones The Unordinary Vintage gold dress, etsy.com/shop/TheUnordinaryVintage,$395; One-of-a-Kind Vintage necklace (as headpiece), Candy Shop Vintage, $145; One-of-a-Kind Vintage gold choker, Candy Shop Vintage, $175; One-of-a-Kind Vintage earrings, Candy Shop Vintage, $95; Large Bug Hinged Cuff, Croghan’s Jewel Box, $255; Aqua Scarab ring, Croghan’s Jewel Box, $4,200; Antique Carnelian Cleopatra ring, Croghan’s Jewel Box, $4,200

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skirt . | october 2018 5

editor’s letter Dear readers, When you Google the word “spirit” you’ll find this definition: “Full of energy, enthusiasm and determination” as used in this phrase: “a spirited campaigner for women’s rights.” That’s really the phrase Google uses as a example, and it’s perfect because the theme for our October issue is “Get Into the Spirit.” And because our mission at Skirt is about celebrating and empowering women, which includes championing rights and opportunities for all women. And because from Skirt’s very first issue 24 years ago, we declared: “Skirt is an attitude—SPIRITED, independent, outspoken, playful and irreverent, sometimes controversial and always passionate.”

In this issue and every issue, we celebrate women who have a strong spirit. That’s what it takes to lean in, speak out and stand up, to be a leader. That’s what it takes to make our voices heard and to bring about change, even in the face of adversity.

In this issue, we also celebrate the arrival of the fall season. We feature cocktails mixed by bold female mixologists who shine in a male-dominated field, Halloween makeup inspired by female icons whose influence is felt centuries later, and a yoga class organized by women who want to ensure that spirituality remains the focus of yoga.

Please join us this month as we sponsor two special events to raise money for causes that help support women. On Oct. 4, we’re sponsoring the Pink Promenade Sip & Shop fundraiser to benefit the Roper St. Francis Breast Cancer Program at Mount Pleasant Towne Center. Ticket holders will receive two glasses of wine or champagne as well as special promotions at many stores.

On Oct. 10, we’re proud to support the She’s My Hero calendar launch party. The inspiring calendar, shot by our friends at MellBella Photography, features women dressed as their female heros. Proceeds from the sale of the calendar go to the Center for Women.

I must also note that it’s the second year in a row that I’ve worked on our October issue while evacuated from a hurricane that forecasters predicted would threaten our city. And, once again, the spirit of the people in the city was on display—friends and neighbors reaching out to help and make sure everyone weathered the storm safely.

This month, we hope you feel the spirit and let it move you!

Executive Editor shelley@skirt.com

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skirt . | october 2018

. t r i k s INE AGAZ INE N’S M AGAZ W O M EE N ’ S M FIRST WOM ON’S FIRST LL EE SS T R TON’S A H C R CHA

FREE

social

BER | 2018

SEPTEM

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simplesurroundingconsulting Beautiful confident women! beckiburke Love this cover! thefashionabletraveler Yaaassss @naturallymrsd do that! Can’t wait to pick up a copy! kelseyhov This photo is EVERYTHING ellentirpak Skirt was unique and wonderful. Now it looks like all the other city women’s magazines.

Is the theme for this month “Somber Housewives of Charleston”? nmicklephotography It was such a wonderful experience working with such powerful, hardworking and beautiful (inside and out) women. I’m still on a girl power high… barracudamoonjewelry Love every single photo, can’t wait to pick up my copy!!!! honey_ulrich love the real women & diversity #yougetit

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WHAT READERS SAID ABOUT OUR SEPTEMBER “OWN YOUR OWN STYLE” ISSUE:

“...I know it must be challenging to change things, but please, keep the identity of the skirt mag!”

— ludivine renaud, a longtime skirt fan

WHAT READERS SAID ABOUT OUR AUGUST “AGE IS JUST A NUMBER” ISSUE:

“Even though my article is now ‘old hat’...and even though I’m not...

I keep getting comments and compliments from strangers who recognize me because of it.

It is wonderful knowing Skirt! continues to have a strong following, and we’re both still on their radar!”

—archie burkel, charleston hat ladies

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COURTES Y OF COU RTENAY

Skirtcharleston Our September theme is Own Your Own Style, so whatever you wear this weekend…rock it, girl!

“The more people we have fighting for women and diversity, the better. Skirt is increasingly a strong voice for women and I love it. I have really enjoyed this year’s editions especially, and the last two issues have hit it out of the park.”

CALLIE CRANFORD

SOCIAL REACTION TO OUR SEPTEMBER COVER:

facebook.com/skirtCharleston Instagram.com/skirtCharleston Twitter.com/skirtCharleston Or submissions @skirt.com

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| august 2018 21

skirt . | october 2018 7

Leadership starts when no one is watching,’ Catherine says.

“It’s about your core values. What inspires you?

What brings you joy?’

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skirt . | october 2018

What Does it Mean to be a Woman?

That’s the question Catherine LaCour— chief marketing officer of Blackbaud, the world’s largest cloud software provider for the social good community— recently fielded during a presentation to students at R.B. Stall High School in North Charleston.

It might be one of the toughest questions she’s had to answer in a while.

Catherine applauded the young woman for not being intimidated, for asking an insightful question. It’s the type of assertiveness she looks for on her team.

Then, she says, she told the student that being a woman is a responsibility to other women.

Catherine champions authentic leadership and plans to focus on the idea that leadership isn’t a title, it’s an attitude.

“Leadership starts when no one is watching,” Catherine says. “It’s about your core values. What inspires you?

What brings you joy?”

She often reflects and asks herself: Am I curious? Am I passionate? Am I challenged? If she answers “yes” most of the time, she says she knows she’s in the right place.

“That will show up in the way I lead,” she says. Catherine says it’s important for women to be really intentional about what their goals are and to go after them. She encourages women to “identify what’s holding them back, acknowledge the fear and still move forward.”

While Catherine took on the title of CMO for Blackbaud in January, she’s also taken on a role of championing and empowering the women at Blackbaud and in the larger community. She has a leadership team of six women in the marketing department and helped

the president of her sorority gave her one of her first opportunities to lead a group of women. She’s now on the College of Charleston graduate school’s advisory board.

After receiving a master’s in business administration from the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State, Catherine worked in San Francisco during the height of the tech boom. She says she was always the only female and the youngest person at the table. She often wore glasses so people would take her seriously. While in San Francisco, she took acting classes and recalls that during her first class, the teacher asked students to stand in a position of power. She learned to stand

‘I’M A WOMAN LEADER’

KEELY LAUGHLIN

Blackbaud CMO Catherine LaCour champions authentic leadership

“I take as much delight in your success as my own,” she says. “This really is about supporting each other. For me, personally, that doesn’t have borders.”

In her office in Blackbaud’s new headquarters on Daniel Island, Catherine says helping other women and making the world a better place can be as small a gesture as wiping off the countertop in a public restroom so that it’s clean for the next person and perhaps makes a cleaning person’s job a little easier.

Or it could be leading the marketing efforts of the company whose software powers Ashley Hall and the ALS ice bucket challenge fundraising campaign that went viral in 2014, along with other organizations whose mission is to improve society and do good.

In November, Catherine will speak to hundreds of professional women at the Center for Women’s annual conference on the topic of what it means to be a woman leader.

“I’m a woman. I’m a leader. I’m a woman leader,” she says. “The idea is we can’t separate the two.”

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create a global management team of women at the company along with chief technology officer Mary Beth Westmoreland. The management team is having its third summit in November.

“It’s really empowering,” Catherine says. “I have an amazing job.”

The culture at Blackbaud is known to be supportive of women. In July, it was recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers for Women. The company boasts that 50 percent of its employees are women.

Catherine exudes a genuine and approachable confident authority. She warmly greets workers in the hallway, and everyone seems to respond to her positive energy.

Catherine recalls pretending as if she ran a modeling agency with her best friend when they were 12. She laughs and says, “I was always running a business.” She says her younger siblings (she’s the oldest) always joke that she used her management skills to keep them in line when they were young.

The Charleston native attended College of Charleston, where being

By Shelley Hill Young

with her feet apart, to take up space, to own that space. Catherine is still exercising her power and taking up space, and she’s doing it her way.

Catherine says a female mentor who worked for Apple taught her that being a leader is not about being the most aggressive person in the room. “I’m kind of silly, I’m fun,” she says. She’s not one to yell. But, she says, “If you want someone who is going to win the war, you want me. I will get it done.”

It’s that authenticity and the ability to create a safe space where people feel comfortable being vulnerable that helps build trust, Catherine says. “That’s when the magic happens.”

Last year, she joined the board of directors of the Women’s Refugee Commission, a nonprofit that advocates for policies and programs to improve the lives and protect the rights of refugee women and children.

It’s another way Catherine is working to make the world a better place for women. “It’s part of the gift I’ve been given in this role,” Catherine says. “It’s part of my responsibility in this role.”

skirt . | october 2018 9

SHE’S MY

HERO

XXX

Women Embody Their Heroes in New 2019 Calendar

AMANDA GORZSAS AS LUCILLE BALL

Compiled by Raija Haughn

Mell Bell and Wanda Cavazos of mellBella Photography have always been committed to empowering women through photography. The duo specializes in boudoir and pinup portraits and their motto is “beauty at every age and every stage of life.” Earlier this year, the two decided they wanted to do something special to help women grow and gain self-confidence and to give back to the community. During a coffee-fueled brainstorming session, they developed the idea for the She’s My Hero calendar. The calendar features local women photographed embodying the spirit of their heroes.

“We loved the idea of having women tell us about who inspires them, about who their heroes are,” Wanda says. “What better way to put it all together than a calendar, I mean, it fits in with everything we do, as photographers who specialize in women’s portraiture.”

THE WOMAN: AMANDA GORZSAS Amanda is a freelance communications consultant and the mother of a 1-year old.

HER HERO: LUCILLE BALL “Besides being the very definition of a television icon, National Women’s Hall of Famer Lucille Ball was smart, witty, savvy and funny,” Amanda writes in her submission. “Lucille was a go-getter, problem-solver, tour de force—writing her own success story, punctuated with punchlines, and she’s my hero not just for the records she set, but for why and how she set them.” Lucille Ball was the first woman to run a major production company, the first pregnant woman to be depicted as pregnant on-screen, a pioneer of the three-camera film style, first to include an interracial couple on television and the first millionaire TV star.

THE INSPIRATION “She used business and trade acumen to succeed in a male-dominated industry. She divorced before it was socially acceptable. And above all, she brought joy to countless lives through laughter.

Finally, Lucille Ball found most of her success after her 40th birthday, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your passion, start a family, or just live your best damn life.”

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THE WOMAN: SHERRY MCINTIRE Sherry is a 37-year-old mother of four. She is a fulltime bookkeeper and human resources representative as well as a part-time student.

HER HERO: HER GRANDMOTHER CATALINA WILSON “She’s a survivor like no one else I know,” Sherry writes. “She was born on the island of Guam in 1933. She was only a child during the Japanese invasion and occupation of the island, becoming a prisoner of war from 1941 until 1944. She lived and witnessed horrors most of us will never know. She overcame her nightmares and grew to be a loving, caring, hardworking woman.”

Catalina raised seven children, as well as her granddaughter Sherry. She held down multiple jobs while taking care of her home and family. Sherry says her grandmother has the work ethic of a true survivor and an abundance of joy and love. Her legacy is one of perseverance and laughter through life’s many challenges. Even now as she fights Alzheimer’s disease, “she still manages to make us laugh and smile from time to time,” Sherry says.

THE INSPIRATION Sherry’s grandmother’s drive and unfailing positivity have inspired her life in every possible way.

THE WOMAN: ERIN BOOTLE Erin is a female engineer working in the IT field, as well as being an officer in the Navy reserves.

HER HERO: ADMIRAL GRACE HOPPER “My hero is Admiral Grace Hopper, a pioneer in computer programming and a Reserve Navy officer,” Erin writes. “During World War II, Grace joined the Navy Reserve only one month after women were allowed to be commissioned and served for over 40 years. She interwove her dedicaSHERRY MCINTIRE AS HER GRANDMOTHER, CATALINA WILSON

PATRICIA WHITE AS KAY HYMAN

tion to the Navy and her dedication to advancing the computer industry throughout her life. She has always been a pioneer. She chose to serve her country during a time when the idea of women serving in the military was not widely accepted

or supported. She chose to push the boundaries of the computer industry and pull others up behind her.”

THE INSPIRATION Erin says the courage and dedication of her hero, Grace Hopper, have helped her pave the way to follow her own passions fearlessly.

THE WOMAN: PATRICIA WHITE Patricia is a 31-year-old South Carolina native who works as a caregiver for medical research animals at MUSC.

ERIN BOOTLE AS ADMIRAL GRACE HOPPER

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HER HERO: KAY HYMAN “Kay is an amazing lady and she really cares for what she does. She is one of the biggest voices for Charleston Animal Society,” Patricia says. “She speaks out for all the hurt and abused animals in the Lowcountry and even in other parts of the state. She is a kind and gentle soul and you could see that when animals would come in.”Hyman’s overwhelming passion for animals has led her to take an active role advocating for laws pertaining to animal abuse. Her work in fundraising and raising awareness of animal rights has been crucial to the Charleston Animal Society, Patricia says.

THE INSPIRATION An avid animal rights activist, Kay Hyman’s work has inspired Patricia to pursue her dreams with the same passion and compassion as her female hero, who she worked with at the Charleston Animal Society in 2007.

Join Skirt at the launch party 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Cotton Dock at Boone Hall Plantation when mellBella unveils the She’s My Hero calendar.

Proceeds from the calendar go to the Center for Women, which works to help women achieve economic success and leadership.

skirt . | october 2018 11

islation in place to protect women in the workplace and ensure equal pay for equal work, continued attacks on Roe v. Wade along with the pending confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh to the high court—are proof of real life imitating art.

The truth is that times are challenging for women—especially black, brown, poor, queer, trans and disabled women. More than 50 percent of white women voted for the president in 2016, seemingly voting against their self interests when it comes to equal pay, quality health care, and proposed changes to rules that would redefine what constitutes “sexual assault” and extend protection to not only the victims, but also the accused. Have some white women like Atwood’s character Serena Joy forsaken other women with the hope that in the final analysis, they will be seated alongside white men at the table? But, if the national women’s marches that sprung up after the election, the uptick in women running for elected office and grassroots advocacy around women’s issues are any indication, many women have had an awakening and are planning to march to the polls during the upcoming midterm elections and cast votes with all women’s interests in mind, not just their own.

The truth of the matter is that we are not characters in a dystopian novel.

American women from all corners of the nation have a great stake in the upcoming elections and looking ahead to 2020. Black women especially have a lot riding on the upcoming elections. At a time when women con-

Lessons from ‘A Handmaid’s Tale’

By PatricaWilliams Lessane

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skirt . | october 2018

tinue to be paid far less than our male counterparts, black women earn just 63 percent of what white males make for doing the same job. Federal and state attacks on Title X policies that include much needed funding for free and affordable health care screenings and services provided by Planned Parenthood and continued attempts to cut and gut the Affordable Healthcare Act disproportionately impact poor women, especially black women and those living in rural areas.

‘ American women from all corners of the nation have a great stake in the upcoming elections and looking ahead to 2020.’

These are scary times, but I come from a line of women who believed in “making a way out of no way.” They believed even when equipped with very little, you used all that you had, did all that you could to change your circumstances. After talking to my son about the parallels between Atwood’s novel and our current political landscape, I had to remind myself that this is not the time to get mired down in fear about what could happen, but rather it is time to get energized by that reality.

Dr. Williams Lessane is the executive director of College of Charleston’s Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture where she is a tenured faculty member in the library. She has a BA in English from Fisk University, a MALS from Dartmouth College and a doctorate in anthropology from University of Illinois at Chicago. She often writes opinion pieces about the intersection of race, gender and class in black life in the U.S. She is the mother of two amazing teenagers and a boxer/hound named Sadie Mae.

ANNE RHETT PHOTOGRAPHY

T

his summer, my 17-year-old son had to read Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” as part of his reading assignment at Porter-Gaud School. Listening to my son’s interrogation of the novel’s themes of slavery, individualism, misogyny, religious fundamentalism, violent and oppressive patriarchy, and women’s struggles for agency and liberation was heartening and encouraging. I envy his courage and ability to complete the novel. I tried to watch the award-winning Hulu series of the same title, but could not get past the halfway point of the first season.

Like most who praise the heart-wrenching performances of the show’s actresses, I found myself too emotionally invested in the characters’ plights. Not only was I racked with fear for the protagonists whose cruel circumstances were reminiscent of the tribulations of enslaved African women documented in the classic slave narratives by writers such as Harriet Jacobs and Frederick Douglass, but I was struck to my core by the familiarity of the characters’ collective hubris and fatal folly of disbelief in the erosion of their collective rights happening right before their eyes.

The series’ graphic violence is recounted by handmaid Offred’s secret self-reflection and probing analysis of her world’s undoing and the unfolding of a brazen and barbaric new and scary one before her eyes—one where women’s rights slowly become undone until fertile women become the slaves of a male-dominated elite class.

By episode five, the similarities between the series and this moment – in the wake of the #MeToo movement, when issues like abortion and equal pay for women lay in the judicial balance—were too much for me and I chickened out on watching the rest.

My son, however, did finish the novel, and our conversations about it forced me to acknowledge what “The Handmaid’s Tale” had brought up for me: a deeply rooted fear. But not some fleeting, here-today-gone-tomorrow fear of the unknown. Watching the series in tandem with the nightly news and updates on social media about issues of the day—the inhumane separation of women and children at our borders, the increasing erosion of leg-

VOTE

get out the

✪

VOTE N OV

★★★

★★★

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★★ E M BER ★★★ ★

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We’ve got spirit, yes we do! The best way to show your civic spirit is to make your voice heard and vote.

On Nov. 6, South Carolina voters will choose members of the U.S. Congress, governor and executive offices, as well as members of the State House of Representatives. Numerous offices in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties also will be decided, including county councils, municipal councils and school boards.

Register The deadline to register to vote in person at your county registration office is Oct. 5, but you can still register to vote by mail through Oct. 9 or online by Oct. 7. Learn more at scvotes.org.

Educate Yourself

Watch and Attend a series of candidate forums hosted by the League of Women Voters. The U.S. House District 1 debate will be televised on WCSC Live 5 News at 7 p.m. Oct. 9. The League

also is sponsoring other forums for Charleston County school board, South Carolina House Districts and Charleston County Council District 9. Visit lwvcharleston.org for dates and times of all the forums.

Get Out the Vote League of Women Voters services director Joan Zaleski encourages voters to take four steps to help get out the vote: 1. Use VOTE411.org to learn

about who is on your ballot.

2. Reach out to two friends or family members every day, either through email, phone call, mail, Twitter, Facebook, or just talking, the week before the election to remind them to vote.

3. Make a plan to vote yourself and take a friend or family member with you to the polls.

4. Use an absentee ballot for yourself or a family member, if necessary. Vote411.org offers instructions for how to get one.

ANNE RHETT PHOTOGRAPHY

Visit Vote411.org to read the League of Women Voters voter guide. The League gathers responses to policy questions from all candidates. You’ll also find

information about offices on the ballot, candidates’ biographical information and ballot questions.

Voters can compare candidates’ positions and develop their individual sample ballots.

“In 2014, the last midterm election, a dismal 34.8 percent of eligible South Carolina voters cast ballots,” according to Barbara Zia, League of Women Voters of the Charleston Area’s citizen education director. “We are committed to turning on and turning out large numbers of informed voters in 2018.”

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skirt . | october 2018 13

forward!

Closing the

STEM

Gender Gap HOW THE ‘X-FILES’ AND ‘GREY’S ANATOMY’ INSPIRE WOMEN TO PURSUE STEM FIELDS

By Misty Antonacci

T

‘While women make up about half of the workforce in this country, they hold only 24 percent of jobs in STEM fields.’

We should foster interest in STEM starting from a young age and encourage girls to get involved. Role models—both in real life and in movies and television—have been shown to inspire more women to enter STEM fields.

Here are the five women in STEM represented in pop culture who inspired me: Uhura on ‘Star Trek’ While women may not have made great strides in space exploration until the 1980s, Lt. Uhura was serving as the chief communications officer aboard the USS Enterprise beginning in 1966. Not only was she a great representation of

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a woman in a STEM field, but she was also one of the first major depictions of a black woman on television in a non-service role. Martin Luther King Jr. was a big fan, having stated that “Star Trek” was the only show he allowed his children to watch because of her inspiring role. Nichelle Nichols, who played Uhura, went on to work on a campaign with NASA, helping to recruit the astronaut class that included, Sally Ride, the first American woman in space; Guion Bluford, the first African-American in space; and Kathryn Sullivan, who became the first woman to perform a spacewalk 34 years ago this month.

Dana Scully on ‘The X-Files’ In the first “X-Files” episode, we learn that special agent Dana Scully played by Gillian Anderson earned a bachelor’s degree in physics (Her undergraduate thesis was reinterpreting Einstein!) and went to medical school before joining the FBI, showing the diversity of fields that cross over into STEM. Her intelligence and scientific knowledge made for a great partnership with Fox Mulder as they investigated the FBI’s unexplained X-Files. If that weren’t enough, her portrayal on the show encouraged a generation of young women to pursue science, a noticeable phenomenon known as “The Scully Effect.”

TOP: CHRISTINE RAGUSA; SHUTTERSTOCK

his month we will commemorate the first time an American woman walked in space. On Oct. 11, 1984, Dr. Kathryn Sullivan became the first to do this, nearly two decades after a man did the same. Of the 536 people who have gone to space, only about 11 percent have been female.

This gender gap is evident across all areas of science, technology, engineering and math. While women make up about half of the workforce in this country, they hold only 24 percent of jobs in STEM fields. As a woman earning a degree in math, I notice this disparity every day in my classmates and professors.

forward!

The Women of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ There have been so many awesome women throughout the 14 seasons of “Grey’s Anatomy” that it’s hard to pick just one. Shonda Rhimes (the creator, head writer and executive producer of the show) has created a diverse cast of women working in a STEM field and made it a cultural sensation. Even when their storylines are a bit over the top, there is no doubt that these characters have served as role models and fostered an interest in STEM for countless people.

Sandy Cheeks on ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ Despite being a cartoon character, Sandy Cheeks is still a great depiction of a woman in STEM. A scientist and inventor, Sandy is one of

Women’s Clothing

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the most intelligent characters on the show. Additionally, she has a variety of other interests and skills outside of science, such as karate and playing guitar, showing that women can be successful in many different male-dominated fields. She may be from a children’s show, but Sandy is probably one of the first examples of a female scientist a young girl could see in media.

Felicity Smoak on ‘Arrow’ Felicity Smoak, a computer scientist with a degree from MIT, is introduced on the show as an IT worker who helps Team Arrow with their vigilante justice. She serves a major role on the team, often using her hacking skills to provide technical support. As the series goes on, she works her way up to become the CEO of her own tech

company. Felicity, played by Emily Bett Rickards, often proves herself to be highly intelligent and capable, as well as incredibly brave in the face of danger. Her confidence in her skills and abilities makes her a great role model for women in STEM. When women and girls see other women succeeding in STEM fields, even in movies and on television, they have more opportunity to believe in their own abilities. If we’re able to increase STEM representation in the media, then perhaps one day women will have a more equal footing in the field.

Misty Antonacci is a senior at the College of Charleston studying math with a minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. She is the founder and president of the Women in STEM club on her campus, which works to support women in STEM majors and increase recruitment and retention. Misty is the recipient of the 2018-2019 Skirt magazine scholarship.

Shoes

trés Carmen Boutique trés Carmen Boutique 1175 Folly Road, Suite B Charleston, SC 29412 843.974.4383 trés Carmen Mount Pleasant 320 West Coleman Blvd, Suite N Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 843.388.5686 trés Carmen Kiawah 615 Freshfields Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 854.444.3035

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skirt . | october 2018 15

Get I

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t Into the Spirit Get ready for the fall season and Halloween with spirited cocktails, vintage fall styles and dramatic makeup looks.

RAISE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

CALLIE CRANFORD

WE ASKED THREE ROCKSTAR FEMALE MIXOLOGISTS TO CREATE A FALL-INSPIRED COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR SERVING AT HALLOWEEN PARTIES OR WHENEVER YOU NEED A LIFT.

Megan Deschaine

is the vice president of the Charleston chapter of the United States Bartenders Guild and bar manager at The Macintosh.

She won the Iron Mixologist competition at the Charleston Wine + Food festival in 2015.

Megan, a fan of true crime TV shows, says she wanted to create a “fall sour that looked like it may have been left on a cocktail table at a slasher a la ‘Carrie’” complete with a “blood” garnish of a simple spiced reduction of dry red wine, cherry cordial and cloves.

THE DARKEST SOUR

1.5 oz London Dry Gin 1 oz Lemon Juice .75 oz Domaine de Canton .5 oz Pear Brandy .5 oz Simple Syrup 1 egg white Garnish: Cherry Cordial Wine Reduction Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice, then reshake without ice.

Strain into chilled cocktail glass.

Aggressively, garnish the cocktail with dasher of wine reduction.

Caroline Woodruff

is a bartender at Proof and Low Life on Folly Beach.

She is the winner of the 2018 Iron Mixologist contest at the Charleston Wine + Food festival.

Caroline describes her cocktail as a “savory and spiced sipper.” She says she added nutmeg, black peppercorn and chile to her homemade stone fruit honey syrup “to bring in those autumnal flavors we’ve all been waiting for.” “This is inspired by the first-ofthe- season oyster roasts,” she says.

ROAST WITH A VIEW 1 oz Lustau Olorosso Sherry .75 oz Bacardi Green Reserva 10 year .75 oz Homemade Spiced Stone Fruit syrup .25 oz Hoodoo Chicory Liqeuer 1 dash Cardamom bitters Stir. Serve over ice with a orange twist

RochelleJones MERMAIDS & DREAMS 1 oz Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka 3 oz Prosecco 1 oz Southern Twist Lemongrass & Basil Craft Cocktail Infusion .5 oz Southern Twist Mermaid Tears Shimmer Drops (for the aqua color) .5 oz Lemon juice Directions: Shake all ingredients except prosecco and strain into champagne flute. Add prosecco.

Finish with lemon twist.

is a bartender at Stars Rooftop & Grill Room.

She owns her own cocktail company, Southern Twist Cocktail Co., which produces a line of all-natural cocktail syrups in flavors such as lavender and vanilla and ginger and jalapeno.

Rochelle’s cocktail combines her love of “all things that sparkle, mermaids and Halloween.” It’s a spin on the classic French 75 cocktail. The cocktail features her newest product, sparkly and colorful cocktail drops to add shimmer to cocktails and sparkling wine.

StyleRevival

When you find a vintage piece that’s calling your name, you get that on-top-of-the-world feeling because you know you’ve found a head-turner. And when people ask where you bought it, you can smile and reveal your secret: “It’s vintage.”

Jacket, The Unordinary Vintage, etsy.com/ shop/TheUnordinaryVintage; Necklace, Candy Shop Vintage

Scarf, brooch and purse, The Unordinary Vintage, etsy.com/ shop/TheUnordinaryVintage; Skirt, Third Eye Vintage, @thirdeyevintage on Instagram

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STYLED BY

Andrea Serrano

PHOTOGRAPHY

Aneris Photography

Vest, Runaround Sue Vintage, etsy.com/shop/ runaroundsuevintage, Earrings and Clutch, The Unordinary Vintage, etsy.com/shop/ TheUnordinaryVintage

Top and skirt, Third Eye Vintage, @thirdeyevintage on Instagram

Dress, Jess James + Co., Candy Shop Vintage; Shoes, Third Eye Vintage, @thirdeyevintage on Instagram

StyleRevival

Dress, The Unordianry Vintage; etsy.com/shop/ TheUnordinaryVintage; Necklace, Candy Shop Vintage; Purse, Third Eye Vintage, @thirdeyevintage on Instagram Dress, Jess James + Co., Candy Shop Vintage; Shoes, The Unordinary Vintage, etsy.com/shop/ TheUnordinaryVintage

Where toShop OCT. 7 HOLY CITY VINTAGE MARKET Brunch and then browse vintage clothing and accessory vendors as well as art, record and book sellers.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Holy City Vintage Market at Park Cafe, 730 Rutledge Ave.

OCT. 14 BASIC FLEA Shop the curated vendor market of local craftsmen, artists, vintage pickers and more. 9 a.m., Basic Kitchen, 82 Wentworth St.

THRIFTERS AND DRIFTERS Visit thriftersanddrifters.com for dates and locations for their next market, which features vintage clothing as well as art and jewelry.

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You got theLook Halloween always puts us in the mood to dress up, to experiment. Whether you’re going all out for a costume party or just seeking inspiration, look to these female icons, who are known for their power and influence just as much as the styles they’ve inspired for generations.

Makeup artist Elina Mille, owner of Bellelina Skincare and Makeup Studio, shares tips for how to achieve these iconic looks.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY

Pale Girl Photography MAKEUP BY Elina Mille of Bellelina Skincare

Mac McBee of Coven Haircraft HAIR BY

STYLED BY

Andrea Serrano

Twiggy Twiggy became one of the first international supermodels, and her unique look has come to symbolize swinging ‘60s style. To re-create her famous makeup look, remember:

1.

It’s all about the eyes! To create a doll-like effect, use a matte white shadow all over the lid, then line your lash line with a black gel eyeliner. Using a small defining brush and a matte eyeshadow in either black or dark gray, trace a fake crease in an oval shape.

2.

Eyelashes should be very thick, dark and long, so falsies are necessary. Draw fake lower lashes with black liquid or gel eyeliner and a stiff angled brush.

3.

Finish the look with a peachy blush or bronzer and some neutral warm toned lipstick.

ON SALLY MAHON One-of-a-Kind Black Flowers earrings, Candy Shop Vintage, $60; Third Eye Vintage dress, $63; Flower bracelet, Candy Shop Vintage, $68

Marie Antoinette This last queen of France before the French Revolution is remembered in part for her 18th century style and excess, and her iconic look still reigns. For a modern spin on a queen’s look, follow these tips:

1.

For that famous alabaster complexion, use a creamy full coverage foundation several shades lighter than your skin tone.

Set with a powder in the same pale shade.

This step is essential to the overall look.

2.

Pale pastel color eyeshadows will give a fresh twist to the queen’s inspired makeup.

3.

Another eponymous trademark of this look—bright blush. The key is to keep a color fairly concentrated, central and doll-like. Shades of pink, fuchsia or red will work perfectly.

4.

For the lips, apply a matte pink, red or orange lipstick with a finger, trying to keep the shape rosebud like.

5.

Don’t forget the famous beauty mark!

Make a small dot with a soft black pencil anywhere on the cheeks.

ON KRISTEN COOK Cameo earrings, Croghan’s Jewel Box, $315; Pearl choker, The Unordinary Vintage, etsy.com/shop/TheUnordinaryVintage, $48 Krista Larson vintage slip dress, Havens, $442; Krista Larson wavey slip dress, Havens, $360; Cameo ring, Croghan’s Jewel Box, $225

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Cleopatra Cleopatra reigned as queen of ancient Egypt and was seen as just as powerful as her male contemporaries. She is often depicted with colorful and dramatic eye makeup and has been painted as a temptress, though her real strength more likely came from her intelligence.

1.

Channel her iconic look by opting for graphic geometric lines and vivid colors. Have fun with this makeup!

2.

Use jewel tones, sparkles and lots of metallic gold on eyes, lips and cheeks.

ON ALEXANDRIA JONES The Unordinary Vintage gold dress, etsy.com/shop/ TheUnordinaryVintage, $395; One-of-a-Kind Vintage necklace (as headpiece), Candy Shop Vintage, $145; One-of-a-Kind Vintage gold choker, Candy Shop Vintage, $175; One-of-a-Kind Vintage earrings, Candy Shop Vintage, $95 25 

skirt . | october 2018

ENOUGH

YOGA A YOGA CLASS PUSHES FOR CHANGE Shelley Hill Young

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‘ A lot of people leave it trapped on the mat,’ Kennae Miller says. ‘Compassion on the yoga mat should translate out in the world.’ including self-care and wellness classes.

“Enough Yoga is not asking anymore,” Tamika says. “It’s demanding that change. We’re excited about doing it again. We’re excited to see how far it can go.”

Tamika says the women work unapologetically.

“It’s important to create spaces where people don’t have to compromise,” she says.

For Kennae, yoga is activism and it is spiritual work.

“A lot of people leave it trapped on the mat,” she says. “Compassion on the yoga mat should translate out in the world.”

Kennae founded Transformation Yoga after years of attending events and noticing the absence of racial diversity as well as bigger and older bod-

ies. Today she teaches yoga classes on the joint Navy and Air Force base and at a Del Webb retirement community.

She says she is not interested in creating an image or a pretty package with her yoga practice.

Instead, she wants to focus on creating a space where people feel safe enough to be vulnerable.

“I’m going to say things that you’re going to cry,” Kennae says. “You’re going to dig deep.”

For example, she says, when you find the point of resistance in a pose, she might ask why you are resisting change. It starts in the pose and then you dig deeper, she says. The disconnect is when people just feel it in their body. She wants to encourage people to feel it in their soul.

“That’s what bridges the spirituality,” Kennae says.

PROVIDED BY ENOUGH YOGA

E

nough already. Enough spiritual bypassing. Enough lack of diversity.

That’s the idea that Kate Reutter Counts of Evolve Yoga, Kennae Miller of Transformation Yoga and Tamika Gadsden of the Charleston Activist Network had as they discussed plans for a yoga class in which they would reach out to a diverse audience, embrace all body types and encourage participants to register to vote.

The mission of the first Enough Yoga class was to show that self-care and wellness is for everyone and it has a voice. Some proceeds from the first class went to support the Charleston Activist Network’s get-out-the-vote efforts.

Kate, who teaches yoga at Gaea Yoga Center and Yoloha Yoga Factory, says she and Kennae want to use their yoga practices to encourage people to have “uncomfortable conversations about race and privilege” and to use their privilege for social change.

“When that begins to happen, we are actually able to ignite the journey toward what the word ‘yoga’ actually means, ‘to yolk,’ ‘to unite,’ she says.

“We cannot say we are all one, when others are treated as different.”

More than 130 people packed the deck of the Charleston Pour House for the first class held in August, and there was such a positive response that they are planning to hold another class Oct. 27 and are looking for a larger location.

“It was such a beautiful experience,” says Tamika, who calls herself a novice yoga practitioner.

“We got shoulder to shoulder, sweating and crying. That’s what I’ve been craving. We have to get real.”

Tamika worked to organize the Women’s March held in January in Charleston and in July announced the formation of the Charleston Activist Network to help connect local activists and causes in an effort to promote community, activism and equality. She also hosts the “Mic’d Up” podcast. Tamika believes in democratizing spaces,

PROVIDED BY ENOUGH YOGA

essay

Call of the Mermaid How she inspires a fierce creative spirit

C

By Jackie Morfesis • Illustration by Danielle Fabrega of The Town Serif

harleston is many things to many people. For me, Charleston is the city of my maternal lineage. My grandmother was born here, my mother, then me. And Charleston, like the women in my family, has always been both a mystery and a dynamic presence—a beautiful paradox, if you will.

Though born here, I spent most of my life in the Northeast, returning in the summers to be with my mother’s family. My grandparents had a home on Folly Beach. Through the lens of a child, it was otherworldly and magical, a portal.

Love poured through the open screen doors as generously as the breeze from the ocean. Our home was always filled with relatives and friends and neighbors as close as family. Horses were allowed in those days, and if anyone knows a little girl’s heart, it was going riding on the beach. In fact, Nosy, the horse that was stabled in our backyard, was one of my first true loves. His big brown eyes and gentle strength melted me. More so than the blue-eyed boy.

The sounds still echo in my ears: the gates clanging between homes on weather-worn pathways, my grandfather and uncles staying up all night playing poker on the porch, my grandmother singing melancholy songs throughout the day and lulling me to sleep at night with stories from her childhood where she grew up near Bethany cemetery. The chorus of frogs after a big storm beneath our home.

The innocence that inhabited my life was a precious gift that I will always treasure.

It was then that I knew I was a mermaid—not the typical mermaid of pop culture or fantasy— but a real mermaid, one with grit, tenacious and free. An archetype of fierce, creative spirit. One who is true to herself and lives her life with passion. And I knew all this at the tender age of 5. I remember sitting on the old wooden groins and looking out into the ocean and wanting more than

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anything to swim into her awesomeness, to be enveloped by her power without fear. Physically I was imagining what psychologically and emotionally we do as mermaids – we go into uncharted territory, explore, renew and heal.

A wildness exists when we align ourselves with the forces of nature. This whole region is

graced with the energy of nature, not only in picturesque landscapes but in the layers upon layers of how nature impacts our lives. The joy of being at the beaches, the tranquility of the lakes, floating down the Edisto River. Even the ominous and unpredictable threat during the hurricane season.

And yes, I see nature as very much a feminine energy. “Mother” earth is a concept that crosses

all cultures throughout time. Inasmuch as I identify as mermaid, I am also at home with my feet planted on terra firma with roots reaching deep down into her fiery core. I also find resonance with the true sisters that I have met in Charleston—women, who also embrace life at its fullest, transforming their challenges into strength and moving in rhythm with the cycles of life, very much like the tides that surround us. Women who support each other.

My great-grandmother came to Charleston from the island of Ithaka, Greece. My grandmother, Virginia Manos, and her husband owned George’s grocery store at Morris and St. Philip streets, later named Pete’s Grocery when my father took over. My mother, Lucia, graduated from Ashley Hall Preparatory School and the College of Charleston. And though they have all passed on, I remember, I feel them, their presence, their influence on my life and most importantly their spirit. They are here. Their voices, their love and wisdom.

This is what makes Charleston, Charleston. She is what has been created and cherished in the past few decades. She is also what reverberates in the ethers from everyone who lives here and who has ever lived here. All the light and shadow.

I am mermaid. And I am one whose legs stand firmly on the ground and whose roots connect to the very center of the earth. A paradox. A mystery. An enigma. Just like my birthplace.

Jackie Morfesis is a writer, artist and advocate.

She holds a bachelor’s in fine arts from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, teacher certification and master’s in liberal studies from Rutgers University and was a Rotary Scholar to Greece. Her first poetry book, “Persephone Rising,” was published by Gorgias Press and her second poetry book, “Mermaid Crossing,” is forthcoming. She serves in prison ministry and re-entry in the Charleston area.

skirt . | october 2018 27

essay

The Spirit Animal Needs You to

ROAR FOR HER

By Gervais Hagerty Del Porto

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skirt . | october 2018

This narrative trickles down to everyday symbolism. Open your MacBook. See that guest user image? It is not a gender-neutral silhouette, it’s the outline of a man. Go to any public place and get in line. The symbols meant to represent all of us—think of that classic stiff figure with the circular head—have blocky shoulders, not child-bearing hips. Then you have to pee, so you look for a bathroom. You pass the men’s room, which looks exactly like the symbol that was supposed to represent everyone and head for the door with the skirt.

Grammar is another symbol that can marginalize or even erase the thought of a woman.

Check out our state laws. According to Chapter 8 on offenses promoting civil disorder, “civil disorder” means a public disturbance involving acts of violence … to another person or his property.”

Chapter 17 covers offenses against public policy.

“It is unlawful for a person to misrepresent his identification to a law enforcement officer … .”

Am I encouraging you to damage property, masquerading as someone else? Depends ... but my main purpose is to get you thinking about how insidious and omnipresent this male-dominated narrative is. Pretty dispiriting.

So how did it get this way, where we’re all sort of typecast into this male role? It starts early.

As a mother of two little kids, I read a lot of children’s books, and nearly every book is about some animal, usually male, doing something. Take a peek in your kid’s room. Open the pages and count the number for male versus female characters.

Sure, there are some great books out there with female leads like “Olivia,” “Screamy Mimi” and “Madeline,” but when you look at all the books, you’ll find that by far the majority of characters are male.

Look at Dr. Seuss’ last book, published in 1990, which sold more than 10 million copies.

In the book, “Oh, The Places You’ll Go,” the lead is a dude. It’s a he; it’s a beau.

Yet you received this book on your graduation with absolutely no trepidation.

You identify with male characters, because it’s always been that way But it’s high time for our guys to switch roles, I say!

Certainly, now, it wouldn’t hurt for a man to experience a story in a “Skirt.”

You’d think we’ve moved on, but one recent study on best-selling kids’ books from 2017 found that male characters were twice as likely as female characters to have lead roles. Another study found that nearly 100 percent of “bad” characters were male. More than 70 percent of the non-human characters were male.

What can we do? Create a literary world that represents females equally. You can start by simply switching the pronouns as you read the book.

Thing One and Thing Two could be sisters. What would the Cat in the Hat think about that? Next, curate your little one’s library. Intentionally add books with female leads and a healthy crop of female backups. While you’re at it, mix in minority figures as well. (Your Little Ms. won’t find her company on the Fortune 500 list unless she’s got a diverse boardroom, amirite?) Once your little one’s library is good to go, the next step is to tackle the inequalities outside your home.

So, what, you ask, “do we rewrite those state laws?” Yes! “With what? That awfuly cumbersome ‘he and she’ pairing?”Sure. But if you do, consider switching the order of the pronouns half the time. Ladies first.

“What about ‘they’?” If you’re a verbivore, using “they” as a singular pronoun can be as per-

ANDREA SERRANO

L

et’s talk about grammar. Before you flip the page thinking, “What’s spirited about grammar?” allow me to set the stage.

You’re outside with a neighborhood kid and you see an adorable labradoodle.

You say, “Oh, isn’t he cute?”

A gnat buzzes in your ear, then lands on your thigh. Whack. There’s a smear of blood, but the itching is gone. “I got him!”

Unless proven—for example, the labradoodle’s pink pedicure looks better than yours—the animal is male. Always male.

When we assign a gender to that animal, we compose a little story with the male as the lead. The seeds of these tiny stories, scattered throughout history and our daily lives, grow into a monstrously lopsided view of the world, where males do all the doing. Since we don’t even bat an eyelash when most stories are male-driven, we accept this as the norm.

essay

What can we do?

Create a literary world that represents females equally. You can start by simply switching the pronouns as you read the book. Thing One and Thing Two could be sisters.

What would the Cat in the Hat think about that?

plexing as the stubbornness of the gender pay gap. But like equal pay, there’s a simple solution.

If we generally accept that “they” works as a gender-neutral catch-all term, then poof!, it’s official.

In fact, The Associated Press recently added “they” as a singular, gender-neutral pronoun.

If “they” is not for you, there are still ways to infuse a female-driven narrative into our everyday lives. Do you work in marketing? Choose symbols and pictures where women do the action at least 50 percent of the time. Do you write a mommy blog? Refer to that adorable poop-machine as a “she” just as often. In conversation, put the female pronoun in front of the male one: “she and he,” “hers and his” “her and him.” Because if we don’t put women first, who will?

Then go outside. When you see a bird, call it a “she.” When a dolphin chuffs, blue fin slicing through the harbor, say, “Look at her. Isn’t she beautiful?” You don’t have to say “she” for every animal, but aim for 50 percent. And that gnat you swatted? Biting mosquitoes are always female.

Represent!

This isn’t a new concept, but we are in a new era. If we begin writing our own narrative with the proper pronouns, perhaps we really can rewrite hisherstory.

Gervais Hagerty Del Porto is a professor at The Citadel. She teaches leadership communications and is the director of The Patricia McArver Public Speaking Lab. Prior to working at The Citadel, Gervais wrote, reported and produced radio and television newscasts in the Carolinas.

She holds a B.A. in psychology from Vanderbilt University and a master’s of business administration from The Citadel. She lives in Charleston with her husband and two daughters.

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skirt . | october 2018

men

TAKE IT EASY

By Allyson Sutton

Scott Hansen of Island Coastal Lager Fights Against Convention

SAMANTHA FUENTES

S

cott Hansen walked into Home Team BBQ about 12 hours after returning from a whirlwind three-day trip around Miami.

Over a salad and cold beer, he shared stories of surfing, fishing, taking a six-pack to a bodega owner in Little Havana, and traversing a tropical storm to meet with execs from a major cruise line.

It’s that mix of adventure and grit that’s helped Scott and his business partner, Brandon Perry, grow Island Coastal Lager across five states one year after launching.

“It’s been a lot of hustle and hard work,” Scott says. “When you have passion for something, you wake up in the morning and go to sleep at night and it’s all you think about.”

A native of New Jersey, Scott first fell in love with Charleston while attending The Citadel in the early ‘90s. He returned North to start his career, but after 12 years living and working in Manhattan, the coastal lifestyle pulled him back.

“September 11 was a turning point for me. I lost friends and colleagues and realized that life is short,” Scott shares. “Our kids were 3, 4 and 6 years old at the time, so it really struck a chord with me.”

Soon after, he and his wife moved to Sullivan’s Island, where they became fast friends with Brandon and his family.

In 2016, Scott – an avid surfer, sailor and thrill-seeker – was racing in the Conch Republic Regatta, a 90-mile openocean sailing race from Key West to Cuba. He decided to turn the trip into a vacation, bringing his wife and kids and inviting Brandon and his family along for the fun. Little did they know, those 10 days in Cuba would chart the course for Island Coastal Lager.

“The Cuban people told us, ‘don’t drink the water, drink the beer,’” Scott recalls.

Taking heed, he and Brandon tried the local brews: a light beer and dark beer created by Anheuser-Busch in collaboration with the country’s government.

Both, according to Scott, “were horrible.”

“We started thinking they should have better beer,” Scott says. “At first, we had this idea to import craft beer to Cuba,

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but we ultimately realized that the same problem exists in the United States. Major beer brands are using corner-cutting fillers, acids and preservatives, but consumers don’t know that because beer ingredients aren’t labeled.”

With a new mission in mind – to create the craft alternative to mass-market brews – Scott and Brandon hit the ground running. They worked for two years developing the recipe with their brewing partner, fine-tuning the branding and securing regional distribution deals. Every little detail was painstakingly considered.

Take the logo design, for example, crafted to mimic a cigar label as a subtle homage to Cuba. Even the blue hue on their cans was meticulously developed to match the water in Varadero, Cuba (they spent an entire day at the Ball Manufacturing lab, mixing and heating pastes until the iridescent shade was just right).

Says Scott: “We both felt that the opportunity to create this brand should not be squandered. Every bit of what we do should have a lot of care and love put into it.”

What resulted was Island Coastal Lager, an “easy-drinking beer” made with pure ingredients.

“Beyond the branding, it’s really the juice that matters – the ingredients, what you put into your body,” Scott says. “We are on a mission to educate consumers that there’s a better beer.”

Island Coastal Lager is the first single-product American beer brand in over 100 years. In what Scott calls a “true David and Goliath story,” this new Southern beverage brand is going up against Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors and Constellation Brands, the three big players that account for most of U.S. beer purchases.

And they’re doing it without a background in beer, a factor Scott argues has actually aided in their success.

“We don’t have preconceived notions of things ‘you can’t do,’” he says. “We’re fighting against convention and just doing what we think works from a smart business growth strategy.”

Their approach seems to be working.

This fall, Island Coastal Lager will open

Island Tap Room on Shem Creek, a space Scott says will give folks a chance to “experience the brand, the island vibe and other high-quality, regional beers that we’re super stoked about.” They’re also eyeing a potential tap room location in Florida, finalizing distribution plans in Tennessee and Virginia, and inking a deal to offer Island Coastal Lager on a major cruise line.

As the business grows, Scott and Brandon try to keep the Island Coastal tagline, “Take it Easy,” at the forefront of every decision.

‘It’s been a lot of hustle and hard work,” Scott says.

“When you have passion for something, you wake up in the morning and go to sleep at night and it’s all you think about.’

“We try to create a sense of balance.

You can start feeling pressure or wanting to keep score, but we try not to let that expand inside of what we’re doing,” he explains. “Part of our success has been that we maintain a laid-back approach to what we do. I think you can lean forward and work hard and still maintain that vibe.”

For Scott, taking it easy means spending time with his family (his kids are now 15, 16 and 18) and cracking open an Island Coastal Lager with friends.

“It doesn’t matter if I’m at home or out on the water, as long as I’m having a good time with good people.”

We’ll cheers to that.

skirt . | october 2018 31

table

Stir Things Up

BY HELEN MITTERNIGHT

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‘It’s not about eliminating straws, it’s about making them optional and not putting them out automatically.’ tending right out of college at Rye in Baltimore. She moved back in 2013 to take guardianship of her little sister, who was 16 at the time, and has been a force in the local bartending world ever since. You may have seen her champagne tower on Charleston Wine + Food posters a couple of years ago, her smile as effervescent as the liquid she’s pouring.

Megan loves bartending and she’s learned a few things behind the bar, including how to deal with customers who have been over-served.

“It’s tough. Unless they’re being disrespectful or disruptive, you want to maintain rapport. I don’t want to shame people, especially if it’s my hand that has served you too much,” Megan says. “You want to be kind, tell them they’ve had enough for now, give them water. But it’s tough to know right away.”

Megan may not be a bartender forever, and her time off to nurse her injury has her looking at what she would do if she can’t get back to crafting cocktails.

“I would love to own a bar or bars,” she muses. “I’ve always said I want to open a bar in Summerville, where I grew up.

It’s definitely a little bit more blue collar than downtown and maybe 10 years ago, a cocktail bar wouldn’t have made sense.

But I think they’re ready now. I love the idea of a neighborhood bar that serves good cocktails. And if I ever open downtown, I would love to open a performance space that has comedy and burlesque. I think there should be more venues for the arts, so I’d provide a little hole in the wall for the artist community.”

FERRIS KAPLAN

M

egan Deschaine, bar manager at The Macintosh, dreams big. Not even a work-related broken foot can stop her.

Megan hops up on a stool at The Macintosh to chat about life behind the bar and #StrawlessSummer—the campaign she coordinates to reduce the use of straws which often end up in the ocean. She’s gotten pretty adept at getting around, despite the cumbersome boot still swaddling her leg.

“Still another three to four weeks,” she says, gesturing impatiently at the boot.

Megan has been out of work since the accident May 7, but that doesn’t mean she’s been inactive.

An educational workshop at Portland Cocktail Week in Oregon a few years ago sparked a desire to change some of the worst of the environmental practices for restaurants and bars.

Megan—a self-described “hippy person”—brought that desire back to Charleston last year and worked to educate her fellow food and beverage workers about the need to produce less waste.

Working with the local chapter of SurfRider Foundation, the United States Bartenders Guild and others, she introduced #StrawlessSummer, although the movement extends to all seasons.

“The straw is something in the diviest of bars and fanciest of restaurants, and it’s something that people interact with on an everyday basis,” Megan says.

“It’s also one of the top five pollutants on beach sweeps.”

We’ve all seen the photos of the turtles ensnared by plastic—and if you haven’t, you should. #StrawlessSummer calls for reducing the number of plastic straws used and replacing them with washable straws or no straws at all.

“It’s not about eliminating straws, it’s about making them optional and not putting them out automatically,” Megan says.

For those don’t want to give up their straws, the campaign has partnered with Charleston-based Healthy Human to offer discount codes on straws that can be washed and reused as well as wholesale straws for businesses.

The campaign has taken off and, this summer, more than 1,000 restaurants and bars on the East Coast pledged to join.

The campaign is not without detractors. Some straw die-hards have taken to food and beverage Facebook groups to object to the campaign as useless and unnecessary fuss.

“It’s a pain point that some people micro-focus and talk about how straws are not the only pollutant, but the whole point of the campaign is to facilitate a conversation, which even these people are doing.

So thank you,” she says.

Megan wants to keep the conversation going about more than straws. Her position as vice president of the Charleston chapter of the bartenders guild helps.

Megan also hopes the conversations push Charleston bartenders into even more creativity.

Although she’s a Charleston native, Megan started her career in cocktail bar-

table

NEWS you covered. The sushi restaurant already has locations in Mount Pleasant, North Charleston and Kiawah, and they’re rolling onto upper King Street at 585 King St. If you like the Zach Brown Band, you might want to check out what their chef is bringing our way.

Rusty Hamlin brings tacos and beach fare to Papi’s Taqueria, 1012 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms.

Chef Brannon Florie has opened Pier 22 on Sullivan’s Island to bring casual seafood to the isle.

2213 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island.

Why would anyone want to Duck Donuts?

Seems you’d want to catch every one from the Duck, N.C.-based franchise that makes its circular goodness to order. They serve coffee, too, if you can pause long enough in your donut eating. 1812 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, West Ashley.

OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS

The Getaway on upper King has tossed out Chef Emily Hahn’s delicious ropa vieja in favor of a sportier motif and will become Bootleg Tavern instead.

Pancito & Lefty, the casual and cool upper King Street home of tequila and fresh-pounded guac, has shut down.

Whether your roll is California or spring, Fuji has

EVENTS

Tickets are still available for the Family Farm Fest on Oct. 7. The event is hosted by the Charleston chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier, an international group of women in the food, beverage and hospitality industries. The fest will be at the Johns Island farm of Joseph Fields, and the event will benefit Earth Heart Growers (see August’s Skirt). It will feature music, children’s entertainment including a jump castle, face painting, and Earth Heart Growers activities, a

Want to see what a single vineyard can do?

Edmund’s Oast is hosting a wine dinner featuring northern California wines from Ceritas. You’ll get an education as well as wines selected to perfectly complement the four-course dinner. The dinner will be held in “The Library,” the new private dining room at Edmund’s Oast. Tickets are $99, all inclusive.

Seating is extremely limited. Visit edmundsoast.com for tickets.

wild mushrooms with truffle aioli on the high end, to the more casual pork rind nachos.

Proof cocktail bar on upper King Street is adding a permanent residency to its menu.

Pop-up ramen masters 2 Nixons will be at Proof on Friday and Saturday nights.

Chef Blair Machado will be doing pop-ups at The Daily on King Street on Mondays and Thursdays. Machado says the menu will consist of a heavy raw seafood side and lots of meats from locals Thaddeus Farms and Keegan-Filion Farm. All the vegetables will be local as well, from Ambrose Farms, Rooting Down Farms and Spade & Clover Gardens.

CHEF MOVES Chef Nate Whiting, whose crispy pizzas and delicate pastas have broken more than one diet, has announced that he’s leaving Juliet on upper King.

Blair Machado has left Poogan’s Porch as executive chef.

MENU CHANGES

The Wild Dunes Resort has unveiled fall menus at its three restaurants, Coastal Provisions, Salty Goat Bar and Huey’s Southern Eats. The restaurants range from upscale to link-side on the golf course, and the new menus take advantage of local, seasonal ingredients. Highlights include a salad of warm

HUEY’S SOUTHERN EATS

FERRIS KAPLAN

PROVIDED BY WILD DUNES

Bar Normandy, the rollicking evening persona of Normandy Bakery on Broad Street was forced to close down, but the bakery lives on in the space.

The King Street restaurant with the cool metal gate, 492, has closed.

silent auction and, of course, food. Filled picnic baskets are available for purchase, as is festival food such as hot dogs and hamburgers. There will be adult beverages for the adults. Get tickets at ldeicharleston.org.

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

skirt . | october 2018 33

community

ght

Helping Domestic Violence Survivors Thrive “Why doesn’t she leave him?” It’s a common question about a woman staying in an abusive relationship.

who are survivors of domestic violence. They can stay for up to a year,” she says.

Thrive offered more traditional sheltering in Summerville when it began in June 2016, but Mackie says the goal has always been to offer longer-term housing and services. In the first year, she says, Thrive helped 105 women.

Now, the group is in a bit of a relaunch, hoping to reopen next year with tiny shipping container houses clustered into a community that will offer survivors of domestic violence their own space to live and to heal.

Mackie says the privacy is pivotal to her vision.

‘If you can get a little privacy with just your little family, then the healing begins so much more quickly and goes more in depth.’ lot of women and children wind up homeless, in the streets, living in their cars or under a bridge. It gets to the point that they get so worn down that they return to the abuser because it’s better than life on the street.”

Mackie says Thrive hopes to remove some of those barriers.

“Our mission is to provide transition housing and holistic services and resources to women and children

“When you come from a domestic violence situation, most times you are being watched, controlled by the abuser, and you’re not able to make choices,” she says. “There is so much tension in the house that you can’t communicate with your children properly.

After investigating what really works, it’s important for these women to have autonomy and to be able to communicate with their children without being

5th

S.C. ranks 5th nationally in rate of women murdered by men *

interrupted. If you can get a little privacy with just your little family, then the healing begins so much more quickly and goes more in depth.”

Often, that family includes pets, and leaving the abuser means leaving the pet.

“A lot of times, women and children won’t leave because there’s nowhere to put the family pets,” Mackie says. “Dogs and cats are family members and they are such a comfort. To have to leave them is just trauma upon trauma.”

Some of the Thrive shipping container homes will have fenced backyards so that the residents can bring their pets, and Thrive has a facility that accepts animals. *Violence policy center

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SHUTTERSTOCK

W

hat many people don’t understand are the barriers to leaving: the “battered woman” shelters that offer little privacy, rules that can be triggering to someone whose life has been ruthlessly controlled, and no place to bring the family pet, often the first victim in domestic violence. And for those who do escape, the shelters often offer respite for only 60 days.

“After 60 days, you kind of sink or swim,” says Mackie Krawcheck Moore, founder of Thrive Saves Lives, which will offer transitional housing to domestic violence survivors. “A

community

95%

Beyond the immediate emergency, Mackie says Thrive will offer job training so that the residents can build independent lives.

Mackie says one balancing act will be to provide an open community while still offering security against violent abusers.

“We grapple with security a lot because some won’t advertise the address of a shelter, but these women are going into hiding and it’s like they’re the ones being punished and they’re the ones who did something wrong, and that message is really lousy,” Mackie says. “I’ve talked with some psychologists at the Veterans Administration, and they thought it would be a great fit to have veterans help with security around the property, for the ones who can handle it. It’s exciting because it’s employing veterans who are capable and are just really looking to give back themselves and maybe make a little money.”

Mackie says the area desperately needs Thrive.

“Charleston, in particular, needed this. There was no transitional housing or resources available for any survivor of domestic violence after they left the shelter,” she says. “For the tri-county area, we have 36 emergency beds at My Sister’s House, and that’s been it for about 750,000 residents. And Charleston and the surrounding areas are growing exponentially by the day. This affects everyone, from every economic level.” * Mackie says she hopes to grow Thrive to include a gardening program and to offer branded products that will help teach the residents about business.

“It is the perfect time to do this with #metoo.

South Carolina’s a tough state, it’s still a good-oldboy state, and it changes very slowly. Nonetheless, we have to make a change.”

Go to thrivesaveslives.org, to: • Donate to the capital campaign.

• Sign up for victim advocacy training, when available.

That includes answering crisis calls and accompanying women to court.

• Volunteer to provide transportation to domestic abuse survivors.

SHUTTERSTOCK

of gender based murders involved an argument between the victim and the offender

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Want more? Visit us at skirt.com

skirt . | october 2018 35

wellness

Body Positivity

By Holly Fisher

Y

ou can’t always spot someone with an eating disorder. In fact, in 80 percent of people, it’s not even visible. It certainly wasn’t for Jayne Mattingly, who developed her eating disorder at age 9. As a dancer, it wasn’t unusual for her to exercise a lot.

And she was eating—just not very much.

Eventually, she started abusing laxatives and her disorder developed into atypical anorexia with purging. It wasn’t until Jayne was in her early 20s that her boyfriend urged her to get help.

Jayne never saw her behavior as abnormal. As she continued to pursue dancing as a teenager, she was surrounded by girls who ended up hospitalized for eating disorders. Because she wasn’t that bad off, Jayne recalls thinking she was fine.

Her childhood growing up in Chicago was happy and her family was supportive. Her mom never talked about calories or spoke negatively about her own body, Jayne says. Research has found eating disorders can run in families, and

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Jayne later discovered other family members had a disorder but never spoke about it.

“My eating disorder was about my body, but it also was a way to cope,” she says. “I didn’t realize what I was doing.”

Today Jayne identifies as fully recovered from her eating disorder, and she’s devoted her career to helping others along a path of healing and recovery. With a master’s degree in mental health counseling, Jayne started Recovery Love and Care, initially a blog and means of awareness and advocacy that has morphed into individualized, virtual coaching for those with an eating disorder as well as those struggling with their body image.

Jayne also partners with the Riley Wellness Group, which has offices in Charleston and Greenville plus a network of virtual recovery coaches around the country, helping women find balance, wellness and self-compassion.

Jayne says eating disorders are the No. 1 killer of adolescent females as they suffer organ failure or commit suicide. People tend to think of eating

disorders as impacting young white girls, but Jayne says it’s a global issue, and she’s trying to debunk the myths and stereotypes.

“Some people have an eating disorder until the day they die. That is not a way to live,” she says. “I read that the average age when a woman accepts her body is 72. I was like, ‘Hell no, that is not OK with me.’ I want to bring women back to the days of playing with our belly rolls in the bathtub. Accepting your body for what it is. Smiling in the mirror. I truly think that’s possible.”

Jayne’s work with her mostly female clients is in helping them develop healthy relationships with food and exercise while learning to value their bodies as a vessel that allows them to live a beautiful life.

Balance is the key, she says. It’s about exercising safely and being able to eat both the doughnut and the kale salad.

Recovered for six years, Jayne has found that balance in her own life. She focuses on her work and her relationship with her boyfriend. She takes yoga and barre classes.

ANERIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Jayne Mattingly helps women with eating disorders choose recovery

“ I read that the average age when a woman accepts her body is 72. I was like, ‘Hell no, that is not OK with me.’ ” Learn more about Jayne Mattingly and Recovery Love and Care at recoveryloveandcare.com.

Learn more about the Riley Wellness Group at rileywellnessgroup.com.

ANERIS PHOTOGRAPHY

“It doesn’t mean I wake up every day and look in the mirror and say, ‘Damn, you look good.’ But I don’t overcompensate for anything. My hunger cues and fullness cues are all honest now. If I’m hungry, I eat. If I’m full, I stop. I laugh when I’m happy, and I cry when I’m sad.

I don’t force anything.”

Her body has found its comfort zone, and she wants others to find that same peaceful, balanced place that leads to recovery.

“If people come away with just one thing it’s that you do not choose your eating disorder, but you do choose recovery,” Jayne says. “You don’t choose your eating disorder, it eventually turns into something you just can’t control.

If you could control it, it wouldn’t be a problem. You can, though, choose recovery.”

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skirt . | october 2018 37

wellness

Let the Spirit MOVE YOU! TUESDAYS

Lorraine Pursell hosts empowerment workshops at Bliss Spiritual Co-op. This month’s topics include raising selfworth, not getting lost in relationships, managing fear, cleaning your chaos and work, life family balance.

7 to 8:30 pm, Bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks Drive blissspiritualco-op.org.

YOGA IN THE ROTUNDA

down, a stand-up paddleboard race open to all levels.

Tickets are $90 for the 9-mile race and $70 for the 4-mile race. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Brittlebank Park, 181 Lockwood Blvd. paddleguru.com.

OCT. 13

Guest Teacher Series Join guest teacher Meg Gray, owner of Urban yoga, as she leads a 45-minute flow focused on the theme of what meditation means to her and how it impacts her yoga practice. Refreshments to follow. 6 p.m. Still Soul Studio, 570 King St. stillsoulstudio.com.

Walk A Mile In Her Shoes Raising awareness for domestic violence and abuse, My Sister’s House’s annual “Walk a Mile” event calls on men, women and children to walk in high heels in support of survivors. Proceeds help My Sister’s House provide resources for women and children at their shelter. Tickets are $20 and children under 5 are free.

9 to 11 a.m., Park Circle, 4800 Park Circle, North Charleston. mysistershouse.org/walk-a-mile.

OCT. 6

OCT. 13-14

The Isle of Palms Connector Run/Walk for the Child Hosted by the Isle of Palms Exchange Club and presented

by MAHLE, this run supports the prevention of child abuse. Registration is $30 until Oct. 5 and $40 on race day. With Oktoberfest as this year’s theme, the 5K and 10K races will be followed by a party with live music, a beer garden and fresh food. 8 a.m., Public Safety Building, 30 J.C. Long Blvd. ioprun.com.

Yoga Stability with Meredith Cameron Mission Yoga is hosting this event intended to cultivate awareness around personal habits and teach people how to implement stability tactics for bone structure. Tickets are $40 per day or $70 for both days. 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. both days, Mission Yoga, 125 Spring St. wearemissionyoga.com.

OCT. 5

ChuckTown Showdown Feel the ocean breeze with the annual Chucktown ShowWALK A MILE IN HER SHOES

OCT. 14 Out of the Darkness Walk Walk around Hampton Park to help raise awareness and funds that help the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to invest in research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy and support survivors of suicide loss. Registration begins at 1 p.m., Hampton Park, 30 Mary Murray Dr. afsp.donordrive.com.

Yoga in the Rotunda Join local instructor Katie Borges for an all-levels yoga flow in the Campbell Rotunda and sculpture hall. Bring your own mat and water. Tickets are $10. 8 a.m., Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. gibbesmuseum.org

OCT. 20 Charleston Cycle Chicks Mimosa Ride Meet at 8 a.m. at Ride Bikes at 1055 St. Andrews Blvd. for a 20-mile ride. Afterward, enjoy mingling and cold beverages in the shop’s parking lot. Visit the Charleston Cycle Chick’s Facebook page.

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OCT. 27 James Island Connector Run Run, walk or ride your bike across the scenic James Island Connector. You can choose 5K or 10K routes. A post-race festival is hold at Cannon Park and includes music, a beer garden and children’s activities. The run benefits the Gavalas Kolanko Foundation, which awards annual scholarships to students with physical disabilities in the Lowcountry.

8:30 a.m. Cannon Park, 129 Rutledge Ave. jicrun.com/registration.

Yoga for Everybody with Jessamyn Stanley Jessamyn uses high energy vinyasa flow as a way to move past mental and emotional barriers. Her classes provide a body positive approach to yoga. All bodies, all abilities, all levels welcome for this hip-opener workshop. Bring water and your mat. No prior yoga experience necessary. $40 for the two-hour workshop. 10 a.m. Yoga Den and Core Studio, 8600 Dorchester Road. yogadencharleston.biz.

OCT. 28 Sunday Sweat This new series from Shiny. Happy. Human. coach Gervase Kolmos begins with a self-care sweatfest and closes with a panel interview of local moms who are juggling careers and motherhood. Tickets are $55. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Soul Yoga, 1836 Ashley River Road. shinyhappyhuman.com.

OCT. 29 Stopping the Diet Obsession Join exercise physiologist and lifestyle fitness blogger Adrienne Herrenbruck for a discussion on tools and tips to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Space is limited. 4:30 p.m., The Beach Club Charleston, 28 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant. Email theestuaryspa@charlestonharborresort.com to reserve a spot or for more information.

OCT. 29- NOV. 2 Be Well Week With a variety of events including beach flow yoga, a Ravenel Bridge Run and an Athleta pop up shop, the Beach Club’s annual wellness week is sure to pack a punch!

The Beach Club Charleston, 28 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant. Email theestuaryspa@charleston. harborresort.com for more information.

COURTESY OF MY SISTERS HOUSE AND GIBBES MUSEUM OF ART

This month, take a little time before the holiday busy season to slow down and reconnect with your inner spirit. Practice self-care, whether that takes the form of yoga, cycling or running to raise money for a cause that means something to you. Whatever you do, let the spirit move you!

COURTESY OF MY SISTERS HOUSE AND GIBBES MUSEUM OF ART

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skirt . | october 2018  39

calendar

events O C TO B E R

Shop to help raise funds for breast cancer research, take the family to the farm, marvel at hot air balloons, go Southbound at the Halsey and get caffeinated at the Charleston Coffee Cup.

10.04 - 10.28

My Sister’s House Domestic Violence Luncheon

The Fall Tours of Homes

Celebrate survivors and bring awareness to an issue that affects women across South Carolina and beyond. Lunch will be provided and participants will learn more about My Sister’s House, in addition to hearing firsthand tales of survival.

Tickets are $75. 12:30 p.m. Alhambra Hall, 131 Middle St., Mount Pleasant. mysistershouse.org.

10.04 Pink Promenade Sip and Shop

Join Skirt magazine, Roper St. Francis Healthcare and Mount Pleasant Towne Centre in supporting Breast Cancer Awareness month. Participants will receive two glasses of champagne or wine as well as appetizers from Burtons Grill and desserts from local businesses. You’ll also receive a Pink Pass, which provides specials, promotions and discounts at select Towne Centre stores. There will be live music and a silent auction. Tickets are $25 with proceeds benefiting the Roper St. Francis Breast Cancer program. 6 to 8 p.m., Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, 1218 Belk Drive.mtpleasanttownecentre.com.

KRISTIN CHENOWETH

Experience historic houses and gardens with the Preservation Society of Charleston’s Fall Tours. This event includes house and garden tours, curated tours, garden walks and talks, a photography walkabout and workshop, guided walking tours, as well as an abbreviated “Four for $40” tour. Ticket prices and times vary.

Purchase tickets from the Preservation Society of Charleston offices at 147 King St. preservationsociety.org.

10.05 Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center Luncheon

Join the Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center to hear the inspiring story of Michelle Knight, a survivor of captivity and trauma and passionate advocate for victims of abuse. Her experiences of survival and healing hold important lessons for fellow survivors as well as those who work with victims of trauma and abuse. Tickets are $75 per person. 11:30 a.m., Charleston Marriott, 170 Lockwood Drive. deenortoncenter.org.

Portraits of Charleston: The Heartbeat of the Holy City

Oil painter Kyle Stuckey has created 50 portraits of Charleston locals, with a goal of “highlighting the beautiful diversity that makes a vibrant community and showcasing the people that work to make this city the best it can be.” 5 to 9 p.m., Principle Gallery Charleston, 125 Meeting St. principlegallery.com.

10.06 An Intimate Evening with Kristin Chenoweth

Emmy and Tony Award winner Kristin Chenoweth will grace the stage of the Gaillard Center as part of the center’s director and broadway series. From “Wicked” to “Pushing Daisies,” this Hollywood trailblazer is sure to deliver an unforgettable night of Broadway tunes. Ticket prices vary. 7:30 p.m., Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St. gaillardcenter.org.

10.07 Family Farm Fest

The Charleston chapter of Les Dames d’Es-

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FALL TOUR OF HOMES

coffier International, a worldwide philanthropic society of professional women leaders in the fields of food, is hosting this event benefiting Earth Heart Growers and the LDEI Charleston scholarship program. Enjoy delicious cuisine from local vendors, picnic baskets prepared by local chefs ($30 each and purchased in advance), a silent auction, live music and other entertainment. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Children under 3 get in for free. 1 to 6 p.m., Joseph Fields Farm, 3129 River Road, Johns Island. ldeicharleston.org.

10.10 She’s My Hero Calendar Launch Party

Brought to you by mellBella Photography and benefiting the Center for Women, the 2019 She’s My Hero Calendar aims to empower and inspire by featuring local women embodying their female heroes.

To celebrate the launch of the calendar, mellBella is hosting a party that will include a silent auction, small bites, drinks and music. Tickets are free but registration is required and donations encouraged. 7 to 9 p.m., the Cotton Dock at Boone Hall, 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. c4women.org.

10.12 - 10.13 Charleston Hot Air Balloon Festival

Keep your head in the clouds at Charleston’s only hot air balloon festival. Enjoy hot air balloon rides, live music, a wine tasting, polo matches, a battle of the chefs tasting competition and a kids play area. Ticket prices vary.

4 - 8 p.m. Oct. 12 and 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. Oct. 13, Hyde Park Polo Club, 6763 Davis Road, Ravenel. VictoryCup.org/Charleston.

10.13 Charleston Jazz Orchestra with Quiana Parler

Experience “The Great Wide World of Quincy Jones” with guest vocalist Quiana Parler. Delving into this music legend’s

extensive repertoire, the Charleston Jazz Orchestra will deliver a night of R&B magic.

Ticket prices vary. 5 to 8 p.m., Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. charlestonjazz.com.

10.13 - 10.14 Autumn on the Ashley Arts and Craft Fair

Explore your crafty side with this event featuring dozens of Lowcountry artisans selling handcrafted items, as well as an autumn plant sale. Examples of goods sold include paintings, jewelry, textiles, photography, natural skin care, etc. Admission is free to the craft fair, but garden admissions fees of $20 for adults and $10 for children apply. Children 5 and under are free. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, 3550 Ashley River Road. magnoliaplantation.com.

10.14 Latin American Festival

Get your salsa on with Charleston County Parks’ annual celebration of Latin American music, dance, art and food. This event will feature performances by Plena Libre, UltimaNota, Kimberly La Guerrera, Capoeira Charleston, the Buen Aché Dance Group, as well as a salsa dance contest.

Tickets are $10 with a $5 discount for students with valid ID. Children ages 12 and under are free. 12 to 6 p.m., North Charleston Wannamaker County Park, 8888 University Blvd. charlestoncountyparks.com.

10.16 - 10.21 “Les Miserables”

Tony award-winning phenomenon “Les Miserables” hits the stage at the North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center. Immerse yourself in the world of 19th century France with a dazzling reimagining of this classic and enthralling story.

Get lost in beloved hits such as “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More.” Ticket prices vary. 7:30 p.m. nightly, North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Drive. northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: PROVIDED BY THE GALLIARD CENTER; CATHERINE ANN PHOTOGRAPHY

10.03

10.17 Wine Down Wednesday

Enjoy a night of wine, food trucks and live music while exploring West Ashley’s Old Towne Creek County Park. This event will feature artist Chris Boone. Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the gate. 5 to 7 p.m., Old Towne Creek County Park, 1400 Old Towne Road. ccprc.com.

Free Verse Poetry Festival: Stanzas and Synthesizers

Join Charleston’s first poet laureate Marcus Amaker for a night of music and spoken word poetry during this Free Verse Festival event. Enjoy musical performances by Marcus, Kayla Sewell and Andy Natusch and poetry readings from local poets Derek Berry, Matthew Foley and Bria Davis. Free admission. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Redux Contemporary Art Center, 1056 King St. freeversefestival.com.

TOP TO BOTTOM: CCPRC; (L-R) KEVIN KLINE, MIKE SMITH, ANDERSON SCOTT

10.16 - 03.02 Southbound: Photographs of and about the New South

Comprising the work of 56 photographers, this exhibit captures the essence of the South over the first decades of the 21st century. The project’s purpose is to investigate sense of place in the South that congeal, however fleetingly, in the spaces between the photographers’ looking, their images, and our own pre-existing ideas about the region. Free admission. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Saturday, Halsey Institute, 161 Calhoun St. halsey.cofc.edu.

10.20 FollyPalooza

Life’s a beach with Folly’s annual festival featuring family friendly live music, free

games, jump castles, face painting, arts and crafts and food vendors. The event raises funds for Folly Beach locals suffering from cancer and other medical ailments. Tickets are $10 at the door. Children under 12 and Folly Beach residents are free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Center Street, Folly Beach. visitfolly.com.

10.21 Children’s Day Festival

Make it a family affair at the town of Mount Pleasant’s annual Children’s Day Festival. This event includes carnival rides and games, giant inflatable slides, live entertainment and face painting. Free admission. 12 to 5 p.m., Park West Recreation Complex, 1251 Park West Blvd. experiencemountpleasant.com.

10.23 “End Child Trafficking” Movie Premiere

Learn about the realities of child trafficking with the premiere screening of this documentary that “goes deep into the most hellish places on earth to rescue kids from the grip of sex trafficking.” Tickets are free but RSVPs are required. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the screening begins at 7 p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. charlestonmusichall.com.

10.24 “What Would Virginia Woolf Do?”

Join author Nina Collins for a lecture and signing of her book “What Would Virginia Woolf Do: And Other Questions I Ask Myself as I Attempt to Age Without Apology.” Nina’s work grapples with issues surrounding loss, separation, transition, . end of life and how women tell stories

LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL

Tickets are $30 for members of the Center for Women and $40 for non-members. 6 to 7:30 p.m., Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. c4women.org.

OCT. 19-20, 26-27

Family Fright Nights is full of entertainment for all ages. Enjoy games, treats, tons of candy, face painting, balloon twisting, hay maze, photo booth, costume contests, pony rides and a fun house.

Fright Nights will feature a milder version of the spooky train ride from 6 to 7:30 p.m. $10 per person. 6 to 10 p.m. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, 3550 Ashley River Road. magnoliaplantation.com.

OCT. 22 Ellevate’s 4th Anniversary Breakfast

Hear from inspirational trailblazer Debbie Antonelli, a Mount Pleasant resident and national basketball analyst who calls professional and college basketball games for ESPN, Big Ten Network, CBS and FOX and last year was the first woman to commentate men’s college basketball games. $50 Register by Oct. 13. 7 a.m. The Riley Club, 360 Fishburne St. ellevatenetwork.com.

OCT. 26 “Love Yourself” Art Opening

Experience the work of contemporary artist Paul Cristina at this show brought to you by the Charleston Arts Festival. Inspired by the study of books, film, music, people and photographic images, this artist experiments with various media and styles with breathtaking results. Free admission. 5 to 8 p.m., Beresford Studios, 20 Fulton St. charlestonartsfestival.com.

Southern Spirits

Join the South Carolina Aquarium in celebrating Halloween with “spooktacular” drink samples from local distilleries and small plates from Good Catch partners.

Come in costume. Event is 21+. Tickets are $45. 7 to 10 p.m., South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf. scaquarium.org/afterhours

OCT. 28 Charleston Coffee Cup

Perk up for Charleston’s annual coffee culture celebration. From coffee tastings and latte art competitions to live music and vending by local artisans and coffee shops, this is sure to be a morning chockfull of flavor and fun. This year’s event will include a Halloween “Best Caffeinated Costume” contest and trick-or-treating for the kids. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Memminger Auditorium, 56 Beaufain St. charlestoncoffeecup.com.

SOUTHBOUND: PHOTOGRAPHS OF AND ABOUT THE NEW SOUTH

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social Clockwise top left: Kris De Welde, director of the Women’s and Gender Studies program; Sandy Morckel, Shelley Hill Young, Jessica Carmen Boylston; Ashley Lidow, Jennet Robinson Alterman, Megan Plassmeyer

09.07.18 YES, I’M A FEMINIST

HOSTED BY COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON’S WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDIES PROGRAM HEATHER MORAN | COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

Student, faculty, advisers and community members proudly declared, “Yes, I’m a Feminist,” at this year’s event held in The Cistern Yard. The celebration kicked off the Year of Women at College of Charleston, which commemorates 100 years since the admission of white women to the college in 1918. As program director Kris De Welde noted in her remarks, “It’s always the year of women in the department of Women’s and Gender Studies.” The Yes, I’m a Feminist event raises funds to support students through scholarships, travel grants for conferences, and expanded research and study abroad opportunities. The event also is a fundraiser for the Alison Piepmeier Scholarship, which honors the late director of the program and founder of the Yes, I’m a Feminist event.

Left to right: Thetyka Robinson, Callie Shell, Drisana McDaniel, Leah Suárez, Margaret Pilarski, Kris De Welde, Amanda Bunting Come

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don’t

Don’t be afraid to show your spirit.

Be stubborn.

Be bossy.

Be determined.

Be passionate.

Be fierce.

Speak your truth.

Stand up for what you believe in.

Don’t let anyone make you feel like you need to be quiet or little or something different.

Nurture your inner spirit.

Recognize that you have strength and power.

Seek a greater purpose, a higher calling.

Now, feel the spirit.

Let it move you.

– Shelley Hill Young

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the issue

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