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June Issue 2005
City of North Charleston, SC, Opens New Riverfront Park with Artists' Demos
The City of North Charleston, SC, proudly announces the Opening Celebration of the new Riverfront Park on the banks of the beautiful Cooper River, located on the former Charleston Naval Base property.
Established near the historic homes once occupied by the Naval Base Admiral and officers, the site is surrounded by graceful old oak trees and peaceful river vistas. The event marks the first time in nearly one hundred years that residents and visitors will have public access to this portion of the Cooper River. The City of North Charleston has made this dream possible and the public is cordially invited to attend the Opening Celebration, Take Me to the River, on July 4, 2005 from 1-10pm.
Events will begin with a ribbon cutting at 1pm by Mayor R. Keith Summey and area dignitaries. A Dedication Ceremony will take place signifying the importance of this event and emphasizing the progress made through cooperation and vision for the future. The contemporary design of the performance Pavilion is set against the backdrop of the Cooper River. The artistic structural shape was selected to withstand the elements and serves to compliment the new infusion of developments planned for the city, such as the Noisette project and others in the future. Displays will commemorate the history of the Charleston Naval Base and the role it played in the security of our nation. Exhibits will be on site to educate and enlighten guests about environmental issues and the necessity to reclaim and preserve our valuable natural resources. Beautiful Noisette Creek and surrounding marshlands bound the park area to the north. Riverfront Park is the future location of the Greater Charleston Naval Base Memorial, which will stand as a solemn reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made by thousands of military and civilian personnel.
Representative artists and fine craft artisans from within the Noisette footprint of North Charleston will be on hand to share their talents with the public. Wrought iron work, metal sculpture, quilting, sweetgrass basketry, textiles/fabric, and other art forms will be on display in one of the historic "Panama" houses. Information will be available for artists looking for studio, workshop, or retail space in the North Area.
Enjoy the patriotic celebration with children's fun activities, old-fashioned games, free gift items and American flags for everyone. Families are invited to bring their picnic baskets, lawn chairs, and blankets for an old-fashioned Fourth of July. Food vendors will be on hand to serve those who prefer to buy their lunch. The Riverfront Park is a City owned property and therefore no alcoholic beverages will be allowed on the premises.
Musical entertainment will be provided under the newly constructed Pavilion canopy and will include the Jazz sounds of popular local artist Abe White, boot-stomping country with Soul Fish, Reggae music by the Ras Bonghi Allstars, and hot Salsa music by Latin Impact from Florida. The entertainment will conclude with a magnificent evening concert finale by the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, accompanied by a grand fireworks display over the Cooper River.
Limited parking is available on the Naval Base next to the Riverfront Park, ample vehicle parking is available in parking lots near McMillan Ave. and shuttle buses will be running to transport visitors to the park. Bus tours of the base will be available during the day or guests may enjoy walking tours of the historic area.
For further information call the North Charleston Cultural Arts Department at 843/745-1087 or visit the City's website at (www.northcharleston.org).
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