CHARLESTON
2025 NORTH AMERICAN REUNION
ORGANIZERS:
Trevor Kaye, Walter and Leonie (Gordon) Leventhal
WHEN:
April 20 is Easter Sunday and the last day of Passover in 2025,
so we have chosen
Tuesday 22 April, 2025 - Friday 25 April, 2025
HOW TO GET THERE:
What airlines fly in and out of Charleston, SC [CHS]?
The following airlines currently serve passenger flights at the Charleston International Airport:
Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, Delta Connection, JetBlue, American Eagle, United, United Express, Southwest and Spirit
Aim to stay 3 full days and nights so we can take full advantage of our stay in this great part of the country.
Tues, Wed, Thurs probably best as there will be less tourists during the week and bookings may be easier. Flights are also supposed to be cheaper on a Tuesday!. For economy tickets, Tuesdays are about 24% lower than peak prices.
The best prices tend to drop off once the flight is less than three weeks away. If it's 21 days before you plan to travel and you haven't seen a flight deal to your destination, you'll want to stop waiting and book the airfare available.
CHS Airport is about a 20-minute drive in ideal road and traffic conditions from downtown Charleston, which is located 12 miles (19 KM) from the airport.
Trevor Kaye, Walter and Leonie (Gordon) Leventhal
WHEN:
April 20 is Easter Sunday and the last day of Passover in 2025,
so we have chosen
Tuesday 22 April, 2025 - Friday 25 April, 2025
HOW TO GET THERE:
What airlines fly in and out of Charleston, SC [CHS]?
The following airlines currently serve passenger flights at the Charleston International Airport:
Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, Delta Connection, JetBlue, American Eagle, United, United Express, Southwest and Spirit
Aim to stay 3 full days and nights so we can take full advantage of our stay in this great part of the country.
Tues, Wed, Thurs probably best as there will be less tourists during the week and bookings may be easier. Flights are also supposed to be cheaper on a Tuesday!. For economy tickets, Tuesdays are about 24% lower than peak prices.
The best prices tend to drop off once the flight is less than three weeks away. If it's 21 days before you plan to travel and you haven't seen a flight deal to your destination, you'll want to stop waiting and book the airfare available.
CHS Airport is about a 20-minute drive in ideal road and traffic conditions from downtown Charleston, which is located 12 miles (19 KM) from the airport.
Dear Class of 1973,
Can you believe it has been over 50 years since we graduated from medical school. It feels like just yesterday we were sitting together in lecture halls, dissecting cadavers and dreaming of the doctors we would become. After our enjoyable and wildly successful 50th reunion in Cape Town in February 2023, we are excited to invite you to another special reunion, this time in the beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina. From April 22 to April 25, 2025, we have planned three full days of reminiscing, catching up, and creating new memories together.
Our reunion will be organized by Trevor Kaye and Walter and Leonie Leventhal. We have chosen Charleston as our destination for its charm, history, and Southern hospitality.
While this reunion is primarily geared towards our classmates from North America, ALL are welcome to join us. We know that over the years, many of us have scattered around the globe, but we truly hope that distance won't deter you from attending this special gathering. After all, the friendships we forged during our medical school years know no borders.
The schedule for our reunion promises to be diverse and engaging. From walks along the cobblestone streets of Charleston's historic district to a Lowcountry boil, we have planned activities that will cater to everyone's interests. The city's rich cultural heritage, delectable Lowcountry cuisine, and vibrant arts scene will surely provide ample opportunities for us to reconnect and celebrate our shared journey in medicine and life.
Furthermore, Charleston offers an array of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget, so finding a place to stay should be a breeze. We encourage you to start planning your trip early to ensure the best arrangements possible.
We cannot stress enough how much we are looking forward to reconnecting with each of you.
Please mark your calendars for April 22 to April 25, 2025 and RSVP to let us know if you'll be joining us. If you have any questions or need assistance with planning your trip, feel free to reach out to any of us.
Let's come together again, laughter and memories intertwining like the stethoscopes we used to wear around our necks. We cannot wait to see all of your familiar faces in Charleston.
Please check out the North American reunion link on our class of 1973 website.
www.uctmed1973.com
Warm regards,
Trevor, Walter and Leonie
Can you believe it has been over 50 years since we graduated from medical school. It feels like just yesterday we were sitting together in lecture halls, dissecting cadavers and dreaming of the doctors we would become. After our enjoyable and wildly successful 50th reunion in Cape Town in February 2023, we are excited to invite you to another special reunion, this time in the beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina. From April 22 to April 25, 2025, we have planned three full days of reminiscing, catching up, and creating new memories together.
Our reunion will be organized by Trevor Kaye and Walter and Leonie Leventhal. We have chosen Charleston as our destination for its charm, history, and Southern hospitality.
While this reunion is primarily geared towards our classmates from North America, ALL are welcome to join us. We know that over the years, many of us have scattered around the globe, but we truly hope that distance won't deter you from attending this special gathering. After all, the friendships we forged during our medical school years know no borders.
The schedule for our reunion promises to be diverse and engaging. From walks along the cobblestone streets of Charleston's historic district to a Lowcountry boil, we have planned activities that will cater to everyone's interests. The city's rich cultural heritage, delectable Lowcountry cuisine, and vibrant arts scene will surely provide ample opportunities for us to reconnect and celebrate our shared journey in medicine and life.
Furthermore, Charleston offers an array of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget, so finding a place to stay should be a breeze. We encourage you to start planning your trip early to ensure the best arrangements possible.
We cannot stress enough how much we are looking forward to reconnecting with each of you.
Please mark your calendars for April 22 to April 25, 2025 and RSVP to let us know if you'll be joining us. If you have any questions or need assistance with planning your trip, feel free to reach out to any of us.
Let's come together again, laughter and memories intertwining like the stethoscopes we used to wear around our necks. We cannot wait to see all of your familiar faces in Charleston.
Please check out the North American reunion link on our class of 1973 website.
www.uctmed1973.com
Warm regards,
Trevor, Walter and Leonie
THE WEATHER IN CHARLESTON IN APRIL:
Daytime high temperatures tend to be around 70-72 F (21-22 C) early in the month, warming to 75-77 F (24-25 C) near the end of the month. A few of the warmer afternoons, especially near the end of the month, can reach up near 84 F (29 C). The record high temperature in Charleston during April is 95 F (35 C).
Rain is relatively common in spring, but it's arguably one of the best times of the year in Charleston, with temperatures varying from 60 to 80 degrees and Southern blooms like wisteria, jasmine, and azaleas coming out in full force. The peak of wisteria season ("wisteria hysteria") falls in mid-March, Charleston Jazz Festival happens in April.
Charleston, South Carolina has been voted the top city in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure readers in the World's Best Awards for more than a decade. Its walkability, culinary landscape, cultural offerings, and beauty, both natural and human-made, come together to create a destination that appeals to all kinds of travelers. It also manages to balance a dedication to preserving history while embracing creativity, ambition, and newness throughout its various neighborhoods.
Alongside abiding favorites and famous views — shopping on King Street, wandering down Rainbow Row, snagging a table at Fig or The Ordinary, venturing out to one of the nearby beaches — the city continuously boasts a variety of exciting openings and relative newcomers that quickly ingrain themselves in Charleston culture. Stop by Babas on Cannon for European-inspired dishes, an espresso, and maybe an aperitif or two. Classic southern Italian meets Lowcountry at Sorelle, an all-day restaurant, bar, and market spanning two stories of 88 Broad Street.
Food tends to be a popular topic of conversation in Charleston, as the F&B scene is paramount for most visitors, but there’s plenty to do in between meals. When you’ve reached the point where you can't fathom eating another bite, venture to neighboring Mount Pleasant, where you’ll find a curation of local art at Charleston Artist Collective and a stellar sunset overlooking Charleston Harbor from Pitt Street Bridge.
You can spend your mornings walking along the beautiful Battery promenade, which overlooks Charleston Harbor, and then explore the elegant French Quarter, with its boutique shops and cobblestone streets.
Charleston is a fantastic option for a three-day reunion. The diverse city has something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of history, southern food or amazing architecture.
With markets, museums, parks and restaurants creating a vibrant downtown area, you could spend all three days walking the beautiful streets. But with the harbor, islands and plantations waiting to be explored, balancing the two will help you make the most of your short, but sweet three days in Charleston.
When it comes to nightlife, Charleston has something for everyone. Breweries, wine bars, fine dining, rooftop bars, and local restaurants line the downtown streets. After grabbing dinner and a drink, residents have lots of options for entertainment. Try a show at one of the area’s theaters, including Pure Theatre, Charleston Stage Company, or The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre, or listen to live music at Credit One Stadium, Charleston Jazz Festival, or the Charleston Symphony Orchestra.
It would be great to stay at one centrally located hotel (Embassy Suites Hotel) so that that group events are easy to organize and that we have lots of opportunities to spend time together. The dress code is smart casual. No jackets or ties required. Shorts are fine for day activities. Long pants for evening.
For those wishing to extend their stay, Charleston is a great fit for golfing families, couples and buddies. Perhaps we can organize a round for those interested. If golf is not your thing then an alternative “event” can be organized.
Alongside abiding favorites and famous views — shopping on King Street, wandering down Rainbow Row, snagging a table at Fig or The Ordinary, venturing out to one of the nearby beaches — the city continuously boasts a variety of exciting openings and relative newcomers that quickly ingrain themselves in Charleston culture. Stop by Babas on Cannon for European-inspired dishes, an espresso, and maybe an aperitif or two. Classic southern Italian meets Lowcountry at Sorelle, an all-day restaurant, bar, and market spanning two stories of 88 Broad Street.
Food tends to be a popular topic of conversation in Charleston, as the F&B scene is paramount for most visitors, but there’s plenty to do in between meals. When you’ve reached the point where you can't fathom eating another bite, venture to neighboring Mount Pleasant, where you’ll find a curation of local art at Charleston Artist Collective and a stellar sunset overlooking Charleston Harbor from Pitt Street Bridge.
You can spend your mornings walking along the beautiful Battery promenade, which overlooks Charleston Harbor, and then explore the elegant French Quarter, with its boutique shops and cobblestone streets.
Charleston is a fantastic option for a three-day reunion. The diverse city has something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of history, southern food or amazing architecture.
With markets, museums, parks and restaurants creating a vibrant downtown area, you could spend all three days walking the beautiful streets. But with the harbor, islands and plantations waiting to be explored, balancing the two will help you make the most of your short, but sweet three days in Charleston.
When it comes to nightlife, Charleston has something for everyone. Breweries, wine bars, fine dining, rooftop bars, and local restaurants line the downtown streets. After grabbing dinner and a drink, residents have lots of options for entertainment. Try a show at one of the area’s theaters, including Pure Theatre, Charleston Stage Company, or The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre, or listen to live music at Credit One Stadium, Charleston Jazz Festival, or the Charleston Symphony Orchestra.
It would be great to stay at one centrally located hotel (Embassy Suites Hotel) so that that group events are easy to organize and that we have lots of opportunities to spend time together. The dress code is smart casual. No jackets or ties required. Shorts are fine for day activities. Long pants for evening.
For those wishing to extend their stay, Charleston is a great fit for golfing families, couples and buddies. Perhaps we can organize a round for those interested. If golf is not your thing then an alternative “event” can be organized.
Your organizing committee! Photo taken Saturday, January 13, 2024 in Charleston, SC
Your organizing committee meeting again on Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire : Saturday, June 8, 2024
WE HAVE 29 CONFIRMED IN TOTAL
$$ = now paid in full
- $$ Trevor Kaye and Abbie (hotel booked)
- $$ Leonie Gordon (local)
- $$ Walter Leventhal (local)
- $$ Tony Bass and Wilma
- $$ John Odell (hotel booked)
- $$ Lorraine (Fig) Shapiro (staying with Leventhals)
- $$ Norman Gilinsky and Stephanie (hotel booked)
- $$ Anthony Maister and Liz (hotel booked)
- $$ Raymond Tobias and Cynthia (hotel booked)
- $$ Adrian "Bosie" Bosenberg (hotel booked)
- $$ Louise (Berkowicz) Irving and Gordon (independent hotel booked)
- $$ Selig Leyser and Maureen
- $$ Jeffrey Wollach (hotel booked)
- $$ Margie Anderson (UK) (independent hotel booked)
- $$ Angus MacLennan and Susan (AUS)
- $$ Martin Graham and Jeanine (hotel booked)
- $$ Charlie Croft and Jennifer (hotel booked)
- $$ Michael Nochomovitz and Beth
Hotels to consider:
Please book/reserve NOW as this is a very popular time of year..
We had on hold 20 rooms at a reduced rate at the Embassy Suites Hotel in the historic district. There are one or two left at this time. The link for a booking is:
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/uctmedicalclassof1973/
It will be for 3 nights (April 22, 23 and 24, 2025 with departure on Friday April 25). Of course you are always welcome to extend your stay!
It is a 5 - 6 minute walk (0.2 miles) to the Visitors Center where some of our tours will leave from. So, very convenient!
Please book/reserve NOW as this is a very popular time of year..
We had on hold 20 rooms at a reduced rate at the Embassy Suites Hotel in the historic district. There are one or two left at this time. The link for a booking is:
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/uctmedicalclassof1973/
It will be for 3 nights (April 22, 23 and 24, 2025 with departure on Friday April 25). Of course you are always welcome to extend your stay!
It is a 5 - 6 minute walk (0.2 miles) to the Visitors Center where some of our tours will leave from. So, very convenient!
Top Attractions in Charleston:
01 Fort Sumter National Monument
02 City Market, Charleston
03 Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
04 Charleston Harbor
05 St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Charleston
06 The Battery, Charleston
07 Waterfront Park
08 St. Philip's Church, Charleston
09 Powder Magazine, Charleston
10 White Point Garden
11 Heyward-Washington House
12 Four Corners of Law, Charleston
13 Old Slave Mart Museum, Charleston
14 Joseph Manigault House
15 Circular Congregational Church
16 Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at the College of Charleston
17 Nathaniel Russell House, Charleston
18 Philip Simmons House
19 Old Charleston Jail
20 Magnolia Plantation
EXAMPLE OF A POSSIBLE ITINERARY:
Day 1: Tuesday April 22
- Arrive in Charleston, SC and check into your hotel or accommodation.
- The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue Hotel, 19 Vendue Range, Charleston, at 5:00 pm. (https://www.rooftopcharleston.com/)
- Awarded “Best Rooftop Bar” by Charleston City Paper since 2007, offering views for miles. The perfect setting for drinks with a plentiful menu. Approx. cost for food $36 pp (incl. tip)
- Welcoming words and chance for anyone to say a few words about themselves or relate their anecdotes/memories.
- "Medical" trivia quiz (4 teams of 6 participants) lasting one hour.
- Breakfast on your own at the hotel or local café
- Historic City Cruise & Tour Experience Grey Line Tour departing from Visitors CenterExperience the Old Market area and the historic homes and churches where generations of Charlestonians worked, lived, and worshiped. Step out of the air-conditioned minibus onto the famous Battery Seawall.
PLUS enjoy a boat tour of Charleston Harbor narrated by licensed tour guides. See and hear about Fort Sumter, the history of the harbor & the Aircraft Carrier Yorktown at Patriots Point.
Harbor tour lasts 90 min. and may be taken with the city tour. Please note that there is a 30 to 45 minute wait between the bus tour and harbor tour.
Your Ticket Includes: - 90-minute guided tour of historic Charleston
- 90-minute boat tour of Charleston Harbor narrated by licensed tour guides.
- Complimentary transportation to SpiritLine Cruises’ Charleston Harbor Tour departure point (downtown Charleston only).
- Charleston’s Historic Homes
- The Battery Sea Wall
- Historic Churches
- Old Market Area
- The Four Corners of Law
- Rainbow Row
- Fort Sumter
- Aircraft Carrier Yorktown
- America’s longest cable-stayed bridge
- Charleston’s Harbor of History
- Lunch and afternoon are free for shopping, exploring local markets, visiting the beach, golf etc. See suggestions.
- Group dinner at a local restaurant - Poogan's Smokehouse, 188 East Bay Street (https://www.pooganssmokehouse.com/) - Traditional Southern cuisine. Family style menu with choices. No pork products. Private loft. Time: 6:30 - 9:00 pm Approx. cost for food $68 pp (incl. tip)
- "Medical" BINGO: 3 quick fun games while waiting for our food/drinks
- Breakfast on your own at the hotel or local café. FYI: lunch is at 11:30 am!
- Morning visit to a nearby plantation, Middleton Place,(https://www.middletonplace.org/), including a guided tour of the gardens and main house with a catered lunch on the plantation grounds. Transport to and from the plantation provided in a private air-conditioned bus which departs from the Visitors Center at 375 Meeting Street. (Pineapple Tour Group - allow 4.5 hours total) Approx. cost $125 pp (incl. tip) Need to be at the bus no later than 9:35 am. Bus departs promptly at 9:45 am. White bus with Pineapple Tour logo. Each bus holds 14 people. Trip to Middleton Place takes about 20 minutes. Lunch is at 11:30 pm. We will be back at the Visitors Center by 1:45 pm
- Optional afternoon free time for shopping, exploring local markets. See suggestions.
- Farewell group dinner at Hyman's Seafood Restaurant (https://www.hymanseafood.com/) Approx. cost $50 pp (incl. tip). 6:00pm reservation.
- Golf outing at a nearby course
- Harbor tour of Charleston's waterways and historic sites
- Cooking class featuring Southern cuisine
- Ghost tour of historic downtown Charleston
- Visit to Fort Sumter National Monument, site of the first battle of the Civil War.
- No organized group activities. You are on your own!
- Stay and play. This would be the best day to play golf or go to the beach.
- Depart at your convenience.
- We hope you had a fun, short but sweet, memorable reunion.
MORE INFORMATION:
Restaurants:
01. Husk - Southern-inspired cuisine utilizing local ingredients
02. FIG - Seasonal fare with a focus on sustainable seafood
03. Hominy Grill - Classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits
04. The Ordinary - Upscale seafood spot with oyster bar
05. Leon's Oyster Shop - Fried chicken and seafood fare
Activities:
01. Take a guided walking or carriage tour of the historic district
02. Visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, one of the oldest public gardens in the country
03. Browse the boutiques and galleries of the French Quarter
04. Explore the Charleston City Market, with vendors selling everything from sweetgrass baskets to local artisanal products
05. Take a sunset sail on the harbor.
06. Visit Fort Sumter National Monument, where the Civil War began
07. Lowcountry boil/clambake/oyster roast
08. Check out the Charleston Museum or the Gibbes Museum of Art for a dose of history and culture
09. Grab a drink and catch some live music at The Music Farm or The Pour House
10. Go on a food tour to experience the diverse culinary scene in Charleston.
