Nine Popular And Familiar January Events In Charleston To Start The New Year Of 2017

It is winter in Charleston. December 2016 is quickly coming to an end. There have already been cold days and there have been really warm days during this final month of the year. Are you ready to send 2016 on its way and plunge into January 2017? There will undoubtedly be more cold days in the coming first month of the year and it will have its share of warm days. That is the nature of a Charleston January. Despite its changeable weather, one unchangeable certitude is the party that is Charleston starts all over again with some popular and familiar festivals joined by some new experiences. I have picked nine events for your consideration.in January.

New Year's Day Polar Plunge at Folly Beach--Would you be willing to jump into the 57.2 degree ocean waters off Folly Beach to greet 2017 or would you prefer being simply a spectator? The answer to those two questions is up to you. Either way, you will have a fantastic time, I guarantee it. Dress as your favorite Bill Murray character and Freeze Your Bills Off with several hundred others as you take a plunge into the not so waters of the Atlantic Ocean on the Edge of America. Awards will be given for best guy, best girl, best team, and best overall Bill Murray character. Registration – 11am, Bill Murray Look-a-Like Contest – 12pm, and Polar Plunge – 1pm. Article--A Chilling Beginning To The New Year On The "Edge of America"--Bill Murray Style.


Charleston Restaurant Week--Many restaurants are participating in the popular Charleston Restaurant Week from January 4 - 22, 2017. Charleston Restaurant Week is the ideal opportunity to sample the culinary creations of the finest chefs in the Holy City at a reasonable cost and the perfect occasion to critique a new restaurant. The City's downtown streets and alleys will be saturated with a bouquet of captivating aromas and ravenous restaurant patrons. The Greater Charleston Restaurant Association is continually updating their free app to include details from all the participating restaurants--Complete list of restaurants here. Article--19 Restaurant Facts For Charleston Restaurant Week Beginning September 9-20, 2015--Bon Appetit

Charleston Marathon--Hit the ground of 2017 running in the 7th Annual Charleston Marathon on January 14 starting at 8:00 am. The good news for runners is that the course is flat and features scenic water views, the Battery, and historic King Street. It's also an official qualifier for the Boston Marathon. And, a festival with live entertainment at the finish line. There is also a Shrimp and Grits 5k run through historic Park Circle in North Charleston also take place on Saturday, January 14 at 8 am and bike races are on Sunday, Jan. 15 starting at 8:30 am. You can register here and view race course maps here.

Taste of Folly--Come and celebrate Folly Beach's biggest food festival with its wonderful restaurants and bars. Taste of Folly 2017 is Jan. 20-21 on Folly Beach. Restaurant Competition, Bartender Challenge, Chili Cook-Off, Hotdog Eating Contest, Date Auction, Server Olympics, Art Vendors, Kids Activities, Live Music, Silent Auction and more.


James and the Giant Peach at the Dock Street Theater--It's the delightful, wild and crazy tale of poor James Henry Trotter, whose parents are eaten by a rhinoceros and to make matters worse, he’s sent off to live with his horrid hysterical aunts. Just as he is about to fall into despair, James discovers a magical peach that soon grows to an enormous size, finds a new family in six funny and fractious insects and begins a surreal journey from England all the way across the Atlantic to New York where James, his giant peach and his new friends find themselves landing atop the Empire State Building. Jan. 21 and 22, 2017 at 3:00 pm. Purchase tickets here.

Charleston Boat Show-- Bigger and better year after year, the indoor/outdoor Charleston Boat Show at the Charleston Area Convention Center is a coastal lifestyle event. For 37 years, it has attracted hundreds of vendors and thousands of visitors annually to browse everything boating and to attend expert talks and demos. Tickets are on sale for the expo being held on Jan. 27-29, 2017. Purchase tickets here.

The Beach Boys North Charleston Performing Arts Center --The Beach Boys are an American rock band formed in Hawthorne, California in 1961. The group's original lineup consisted of brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and their friend Al Jardine. They emerged at the vanguard of the "California Sound", initially performing original surf songs that gained international popularity for their distinct vocal harmonies and lyrics reflecting a southern California youth culture of surfing, cars, and romance. Friday, January 27, 2017 at 7:00 pm. Purchase tickets here.

Lowcountry Oyster Festival--The Lowcountry Oyster Festival is the world's largest oyster festival offering up 80,000 pounds of the mighty mollusk. It has been named one of the "top 20 events in the southeast" by Southeastern Tourism Society and takes place Sunday January 29, 2017 - 10:00 am-5 pm. Highlights include the legendary "Oyster Shucking" and "Oyster Eating". Contests, live music on the main stage, wine, a selection of domestic and imported beers, a Children's Area and a "Food Court" showcasing a variety of local favorite restaurants to satisfy everyone's taste. The place is the beautiful Boone Hall Plantation on 1235 Longpoint Road in Mt. Pleasant, SC--Purchase tickets here.

Food and Wine pairing with Anson Restaurant, Charleston--Wine Spectator Magazine - "The most romantic restaurant in Charleston ..." Anson Restaurant ... a favorite Charleston, SC restaurant with Southern architecture, elegant interior decor and gracious hospitality... Anson's cuisine and ambiance reflect worldly sophistication and Lowcountry lifestyle. Featuring - 3 dishes and 3 wines...$15/person. Accent on Wine located at 132 S Main St, Summerville, South Carolina. Join the decadence on Tuesday, January 31, 2017 at 5 pm - 7 pm.

Eating At Eva's On Main In Summerville Is Like Coming Home

There is no flashy, neon sign marking its location at the one window, one door, discreet red brick building that sits unpretentiously across from historic Hutchinson Square two doors north of the iconic James F. Dean Theatre. Upon entrance, you are greeted with much the same.

The interior is mother's dining room simple with Charleston blue walls covered half way up with white panels topped off with chair rail molding. A window bar spans the front with a view of the Square. On the walls, groupings of decorative plates fondly recall a cherished practice of yesteryear.

When you have a loyal following that spans a lifetime, simple is all you need. Longtime locals come for the down home fixings. It's beloved owner called the fare "southern cuisine."

The celebrated history of Eva's Restaurant has been well documented. An article from the Journal Scene hangs near the entrance. Established in 1944, it has been at 129 South Main Street since 1952. Like the theatre, it's been an anchor of constancy among the grouping of buildings east of the Square that otherwise have weathered many changes over the years. Sadly, Eva Hinson passed away in 2011 at the age of 96.

Not long after, ownership changed hands. Now called Eva's on Main, the new owners made a few changes to the interior and decor, but dedicated to integrating its storied past with the present, Eva's imprint and legacy remains in tact, and that is the way her longtime customers like it.

Like the theater, Eva and her restaurant have been designated a Summerville icon. Some of her patrons and closest friends dedicated a portrait to her in 2011. It presently hangs on the wall near the kitchen entrance surrounded by a grouping of her esteemed plates. It bears the inscription: "Mrs. Eva brought residents of Summerville together to share good food and happenings in their lives for over half a century."

One of those friends and former mayor of Summerville, Berlin G. Meyers, knew Eva since grammar school. Meyers, a constant regular since the early days, can be seen every morning around 7:00 am sitting at the same table, in the same chair, savoring his prepared-on-schedule white grits, one egg scrambled, bacon, white toast, and coffee.

Other longtime customers, Michael Murray and his mother, Margaret, consider Eva's to be their extended family. "I love coming to Eva's," 88 year old Margaret said with a smile. "The nicest part is you get to see friends." Margaret plays the organ at a local church. She will tell you stories about her first piano and her years living in Turkey, but longs for Vienna, Austria. Michael, also a seasoned world travel, says he looks forward to eating at Eva's when he returns home. "You get a good tasting, well rounded meal." He also believes people who eat at Eva's live a long time. How's that for a plug.

Reggie

Keri Whitaker-Journal Scene

Eva's family is growing. Reggie became a loyal customer six months ago. He said of his regular server, "Robin called me by name from day one. The hospitality I am shown makes me feel like one of the family. The staff is always introducing me to new acquaintances. Everybody knows everybody." Then he added, "The food is always served hot."

Eva's on Main is like no other restaurant when it comes to the customer-business relationship. As an expression of appreciation, on their travels, customers would collect decorative plates and give them to Eva, who then would hang the plates on the walls of the restaurant. Since the change, many of them have been stored away, but small groupings remain as a reminder. Patrons drink from coffee cups commemorating 60 years of business given to Eva by a local group.

On the day of my visit, I witnessed an extraordinary display of appreciation. After something spilled, an older gentleman and frequent customer got down on the floor and helped clean it up. I was told this same man clears his own table and takes the dishes to the kitchen to be cleaned.

The food has always been prepared Eva's way. "It must look good and taste good." Three of the kitchen staff have a combined total of ninety years of service. Truly southern ladies, Beanie, Patricia, and Sarah knew Eva personally. When I asked about Eva, they chuckled and respectfully exclaimed, "She was a pistol," and then added, "She was very caring and helped everybody. She didn't want anybody to leave hungry."

Sarah, Patricia, and Beanie

The day I visited, a Friday, the specials were Old Fashioned Meatloaf (prepared Eva's way), Fillet of Whiting, and Fried Pork Tenderloin with rice. Buttered Corn, Black-Eyed Peas, and Collard Greens were the vegetables. Deserts included Banana Pudding, Chocolate Silk Pie, and German Chocolate Cake. Everyday is different. A chalk board on one wall and on the front of the hostess desk lists each days specials.

The generous serving of Old Fashioned Meatloaf smothered in a mild tomato sauce was succulent and tasty--the sauce great for corn bread dipping. The Fried Pork Tenderloin prepared in thin strips was savory. I generally do not eat Black-Eyed Peas or Collard Greens, but enjoyed them none-the-less; the Collard Greens were of a pleasant flavor and consistency. The Banana Pudding was delicious.

Simone

The staff from hostess to cook are friendly and hospitable. Restaurant manager, Judy Spencer, orchestrates an efficient house with a personable touch making herself available to satisfy whatever need that may arise. She knows her customers by name.

The presence of Eva still can be felt at the restaurant she made famous, not in a ghostly way, but by the spirit with which she did things--simple, southern, and Summerville. Eva's on Main is easy going and the prices are easy on the pocket book. A wooden plaque hanging over the window bar says it all, "Family and friends gather here." It's like coming home.

Perfect for people watchers

For menu and times of operation go to Eva's on Facebook.

Upcoming events: Food and Wine Tasting with Eva’s Restaurant, Summerville at Accent on Wine-Tuesday, January 27th at 5pm to 7pm.

An Entertaining Night Of Picture Taking In Historic Summerville-Celebrating New Friends

It was Friday. The sun had slipped beyond the horizon hours ago. A quick glance to my watch revealed it to be about the hour of 10 o'clock. The task of illumination was now the responsibility of the assorted street lights and sidewalk lamps. The live oaks on Hutchinson Square were tipping their branches ever so slightly to the gentle nighttime breeze. A gesture denoting mutual respect, perhaps. Under the gnarled branches of the old tree's protective canopy, in among their ghostly shadows, smiling scarecrows waved at the few passing cars.

Most of the businesses were locked and silent, except for the usual late night gathering spots. I was out this late hour taking pictures of the marquis and signs of the various establishments in and around the historic, old Square, the quiet sentinels that never sleep.

Accent on Wine was one of those nighttime spots still serving up the aromatic drink and loquacious fun to the few gathered around its tables and bar. I entered its doors to take some discreetly chosen photos of its interior. I was standing in front of the bar readying my camera to take a picture of the glass etching mounted among the shelves when I heard someone ask me if I would like to be in the photo, a considerate offer from a pretty young woman sitting on the right side of the bar. She had shoulder length, blond hair and was dressed very smartly. A young gentleman was with her. She was drinking wine, he a beer.

The question was the opening sentence to an enjoyable interchange. I introduced myself, told her I was a blogger. She asked the usual question, "What do you blog about?" I handed her my card and gave a quick summary. She informed me of her being new to the Summerville area and asked where in town she could find the best places to eat. She made it very clear, "I am not interested in chain restaurants. I want to experience something different."

I rattled off some of my favorite Summerville dining establishments such as Sweetwater Cafe, Perfectly Frank's, Matt's Burgers, Oscars, and a few others. At this point, I couldn't leave out mentioning the best place to get coffee, Coastal Coffee Roasters. Lizzy  said she was looking for a good coffee place. But I couldn't leave it simply with coffee because CCR is much more. It has become one of my favorite places for experiencing hometown talent and entertainment with its Thursday mike night and Acoustic Series. Craft beers, wine, and if you are hungry, there are plenty of delicacies offered to satisfy your craving.

Charleston soon entered the conversation, rooftop bars to be exact. It was then I learned they were new to Summerville, but not new to Charleston. The two of them previously lived on John's Island. Justin recently changed work locations and Summerville was the compromise between his drive to Orangeburg and hers to Trident Tech. I asked if she had ever been to the new restaurant on King Street called Stars, since rooftop bars was the topic. Stars Restaurant has a rooftop bar with a 360 degree view of Charleston.

I then said, "By the way, most people simply know me as Vacation Rick." It was then they revealed their names to me, Lizzy and Justin. Sports became the subject. They were a house divided. Lizzy was a Gamecock fan and Justin was a Tigers fan. I on the other hand was neither, since I was an Ohio transplant and a follower of professional football more so than college. Now, all hell broke loose and we ran the gamut of subjects from snow to cream of wheat.

Then, the conversation took a southern turn, transitioning from cream of wheat to grits, two very sticky substances. Justin asked me if I had ever been to the World Grits Festival in St. George. "No, haven't had the pleasure," I said. Lizzy casually captured the topic to describe in detail the rolling-in-the-grits contest and I have to say, it sounds like a funny event. They both agreed, "The best place to get grits is at the Hominy Grill in Charleston. But when you do go, take someone with you who is experienced at eating grits because you will need to know how much salt and sugar to add or you will ruin your whole experience." I must keep that in mind.

"This is what Accent on Wine is all about," I inserted. "A place to relax, sip on a glass of wine, and make new acquaintances." We shook hands and parted ways, for now. I left and resumed taking pictures along S. Main. Lizzy reminded me of someone I had seen before and it finally occurred to me who that was. It was the actress Ali Larter. I hope to see Lizzy and Justin again, maybe at the next Third Thursday on November 15th, a once a month Summerville event the two of them have not yet participated in. I hope to see you there also. I hear there is going to be a party over at Art and Soul starting 8:00 pm. Mr. Fezziwig is the host, and he knows how to have a good time.

Molly Durnin will perform at Coastal Coffee Roasters Friday, November 9th at 7-9 pm. Molly is from New York. She is an indie musician. Singer/songwriter with a rhythmic guitar groove and tuneful melodic sense that draws from the heart of Americana, folk and blues traditions.

For more information on what's happening in Summerville go to Summerville DREAM, a member of South Carolina Main Street and the National Main Street programs.

A Great Third Thursday in Summerville October 18, 2012-Summerville Shines

Summerville parties hearty once a month, every Third Thursday to be exact. And last night's Third Thursday was phenomenal. So outstanding, the merrymaking wasn't even dampened by the presence of the "squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner," Ebeneezer Scrooge, who was compelled to be there to see his equally stingy business partner, Jacob Marley, doubtfully put to rest at crowded Hutchinson Square near the hour of 6:30 pm.

The whole downtown district was filled with the sounds of laughter and music. Short Central was dancing and singing to the vibes of the Vistas as they axed out golden oldies of the past. The outdoor seating venues of the local eateries were filled. The opened doors of the local businesses seductively welcomed Summerville's loyal residents and curious visitors with the traditional wine and cheese snacks.

    
I began my night with a quick bite to eat at Ladles, soup and a sandwich. Six o'clock was rapidly approaching, the time set for the beginning of the burial procession to start at O'Lacy's Pub. Short Central was already quite busy and the band called the Vistas were setting up in the small courtyard in the middle. But first, I headed over to Art and Soul where the costumed performers were making the necessary preparations. The acting group, consisting mainly of Summerville's talented younger ones, were getting their final instructions from Pamela Ward and tweaking their attire. Tim Lowry, a popular storyteller and leader of this procession, was milling around talking to the young actors. They posed for some quick pictures. They all looked like the poor children from the middle decades of 19th century London they were costumed to portray, Dickens style.

At 6:30pm, Tim Lowry entered the pub to announce the demise of Marley and procure sympathy for the poor children looking in the windows, the very children who were neglected and forgotten by the likes of Jacob Marley and Ebeneezer Scrooge, men only interested in turning a crown at the expense of the needy. After exiting the pub, the group proceeded up Short Central to Hutchinson Square, weaving through the Third Thursday crowd. A few words were spoken amongst the boos and hisses from the crowd, displeased at the presence of Scrooge. I approached the cold, uncaring, insensitive Mr Scrooge to ask him if he would be so kind as to donate money to a most worthy cause benefiting the unemployed and he sarcastically questioned, "Are there no Prisons? And the union workhouses-are they still in operation?"

Eddie Bush was rockin' the Montreux. Chelsea Summers was across the street at Aura Lees performing tunes from her new CD while the shoppers snacked on cheese and kielbasa from Sticky Fingers. By this time, the sun had long disappeared beyond the trees. We sat outside of Accent on Wine courting a drink while basking under the brightly lit trees of Hutchinson Square. We finished the night beneath the orange lights of Montreux's back patio recounting funny stories from our past. My friend competed in a cornhole challenge and won a cooler pack. Another successful Third Thursday for Summerville DREAM and our businesses. Man, I love this town. Enjoy the pictures and video.
Here are some of the upcoming events scheduled in Summerville and surrounding areas:

The 2012 Coastal Carolina Fair
October 25-November 4, 2012
Exchange Park

Flowertown Players presents The Hobbit
October 25, 26, 27...7:00pm
October 27 and 28...3:00pm
James F Dean Theatre
133 South Main Street, Summerville, SC
 
Tim Lowry at Art and Soul for an Amazing Halloween Spooky Tales CD release Party.
Friday, October 26, 2012...7:00pm
113 W 2nd South St, Summerville, SC

11th Annual Run with the Dolphins-5k race/walk and mile fun run
Race runs entirely through the Newington Plantation Neighborhood in Summerville.
Saturday, October 27, 2012...8am: 5k, 9:10 mile fun run

Molly Durnin will perform at Coastal Coffee Roasters
November 9, 2012...7:00-9:00pm

Another Successful Third Thursday In Summerville-Drumming Up Some Business For The Local Economy

Drum circle in Hutchinson Square

There was the sound of off-kiltered drumming in the shade of the big oak trees of Summerville's Hutchinson Square. The famed square in the center of town, which hosts various exhibits throughout the year, was the fitting location for the scheduled drum circle of this weeks Third Thursday. A drum circle is described as any group of people who informally gather together to beat on drums. The main objective is to share rhythm and get in tune with each other and themselves. Easier said than done when the circle consists of people from the community with no percussion training of any sort, but that is what makes it fun. And that is what Third Thursday is all about, community.

There was a variety of live music throughout the downtown area from Hutchinson Square to Short Central, a quaint pedestrian-only side street where art and craft displays are set up in front of the various eclectic shops and galleries lining it on both sides. An older gentleman was serenading the ladies passing by with songs from the distant past. He was very good. Chelsea Summers was at her usual place outside of her mother's store on W Richardson singing with her guitar in hand and signing copies of her recently released CD. I was introduced to a young boy by the name of Tristan LaMunion. Tristan is an aspiring axe man and plays in a local grocery store.

My first stop of the night was Hutchinson Square where I took some video of the drum circle. I was tempted to join in, but the group I was with wasn't the least bit interested in pounding on a bunch of drums. Food was more of a priority. The Montreax was the next stop where I forked down a Caesar Salad and sucked up some coke, the drink. The crowd was on the light side as it was still early. A young man had gotten up to perform and sang songs like "Cause I'm a picker, I'm a grinner, I'm a lover and I'm a sinner." Impossible to say those words without adding the melody. From there, strolled over to Short Central. Sam Singleton, an extraordinary balladeer, was enchanting the shopping crowd with his soulful style of singing. All the shops were open for business, each with a spread of choice wines, beer, and cheeses for their patrons to sample, a tradition of Third Thursday.

Third Thursday is all about promoting Summerville businesses, an event sponsored by Summerville D.R.E.A.M. to assist store owners in gaining exposure and much needed profit for maintaining a thriving downtown district. Downtown Crossing and Art and Soul were two businesses on my list to visit this night.

135 Central Ave

Downtown Crossing is a quaint space of neatly organized hand-made products. "We make all the items in the store, there are no consignments," Sarah informed me. Sarah is one of two owners. She is partners with a college friend, Jewel, who happens to be her sister-in-law. They attended Charleston Southern. So, the store is family owned and family run. Sarah graciously pointed out the different hand-made accessories and home goods avaiable and informed me of its maker. There is a loft above the sales floor utilized as a work space for creating their complete line of goods. Jewel is also a writer. She just released her own book called "Road Trip To Love" based on her own experiences. You can aquire a copy on Amazon or if you visit her store at 135 Central Ave, she would more than likely be happy to provide you with a copy. To view their line of product click on Downtown Crossing. "Family owned, family made" is the store's motto.

Sarah, one of the partners

Jewel's book

113 West 2nd South Street

My next appointed stop was Art And Soul, a business where a lot is going on. You can't miss it, a brand new sign larger-than-life marks its location. The inside is equally large and spacious, enough room to host "Dancing with the Stars." I introduced myself to Pamela Ward, the owner, who was quite busy, but took the time to explain what Art and Soul is about. There were french mimes present, live entertainment, french food, face painting, and a free photo booth for families. I saw several familiar faces while I was there. The center serves as a venue for children's parties, adult gatherings, meetings, classes, seminar space, and weekend venues for musicians. It is also a tourism and travel company that arranges unique retreats, trips and tours for locals and tourists with costumed, historic tour guides. Artful Dodgers Actors  there and will be offering theater for children and adults. Every year they have a "Fezziwig Party", a character from the beloved, famous holiday story written by Charles Dickens. Fezziwig knew how to throw a party and so does Art and Soul. Check them out at their Facebook page or call 843- 224-4133.

Leslie Vicary and Pamela Ward

Lesley Vicary will be featured in the "Last Flapper", a one-woman play based on the life and writings of Zelda Fitzgerald. The play will be at the South of Broadway Theatre Company starting September 7th. Call 843-745-0317 for reservations or click on dates and tickets.

We ended the night drinking the traditional Yuengling while listening to Chelsea sing at Aura Lee's and then last-but-not-least, Accent on Wine to indulge in a glass of grapy goodness and a platter called the "Drunken Goat", a cheese which has been “made drunk” by submerging it in a wine (Mourvèdre grapes) for 72 hours. The process gives the rind a vivid purple hue. The cheese has a mild, sweet, and fruity taste. Doesn't that description make your mouth water.

Chelsea and Tristan

It was another successful Third Thursday in historic Summerville despite the fact it was competing with "meet the teacher night" at the local schools. See you at the next installment in September when summer will be nearing its end.

Third Thurday in Summerville: "The Wizard of Oz" Delights and Lots Of Fun For Summervillians

With all the thunderstorms lately, it's surprising nobodies house has gotten sucked up by a twister. July's edition of Third Thursday was to be no exception. Around 4pm the skies over Summerville were looking darkly ominous. But thunderstorms are pretty much routine in the Lowcountry this time of year, when the temperatures soar and the humidity spikes. Experienced residents take them in stride and know they come and go as quickly as you can say "Somewhere over the Rainbow". In fact, the James F. Dean Theater has issued a tornado warning for August 2nd and continuing to the 12th. "The Wizard of Oz" is expected to blow into town and when that happens, things will get wicked in more ways than the weather. There is a 100 per cent chance of a twister and somebodies house is going to get sucked up.

The Flowertown Players have been working hard to present what promises to be a delightfully entertaining show. The large cast, including a large group of local kids, have spent many hours learning their lines and choreography. The logistics involved in this musical production are challenging for the set designers, but they are proving themselves up to the task, and the rewards will be great for the audience. The numerous stage settings will whisk away to the Land of Oz and Munskinville putting you on the journey down the yellow brick road to the gates of the Emerald City. The cast made a preview appearance in full costume in Town Square and mingled among the Third Thursday crowd.

Dorothy and Tin Man

Cowardly Lion looking brave

Summerville's royalty, Bill Summers, was in court-the courtyard of Aura Lee's Jewelry, Handbags and Accessories to be more exact-handing out handshakes and Yuenglings. By the time my group arrived, all the Yuenglings were gone, supporting evidence Aura Lee's shop is a favorite Third Thursday stop. Bill was joined by Brad Mallett, owner of Coastal Coffee Roasters. Coastal Coffee Roasters has quickly become one of Summerville's busiest hot spots serving up their signature blend of roasted coffee accompanied by weekly scheduled events for your entertainment. If you have some musical talent, contact Brad and he will be happy to give you consideration. Danny Trump's amazing cheesecakes are also featured at Coastal Coffee along with craft beers and wines. Due to the scattered showers lingering around at the start, Chelsea Summers had to cut her usual Third Thursday singing appearance short at Aura Lee's. You can catch Chelsea performing at various venues around Summerville and surrounding areas. For a complete list of her appearances click on Chelsea Summers.

Bill Summers and friends

When we first arrived, our first stop was to be the Eclectic Chef on Short Central, but had to wait for the arrival of the rest of the party. We milled around the shops sipping on wine and eating pretzels provided by the various establishments, a tradition of Third Thursday. There was a man in the courtyard of Short Central, I didn't get his name, singing old tunes like "Garden Party" by Ricky Nelson. When we finally sat down to eat, the raindrops began to fall, but the umbrella on the table protected us-to some degree. My back got a slight soaking, especially when a certain someone would shake the umbrella.

Live entertainment

Kathy, Hanna, and Glen

White Gables well represented

Our planned, final destination for the evening was to be Accent on Wine. We were briefly sidetracked by some old vehicles on display at the end of the Town Square at W. Richardson. The temptation to take pictures of the old cars with someone posing next to them could not be resisted. Some dreams never fade. We pressed on. Accent on Wine was packed-no surprise. Filling an available stool immediately upon vacancy is a must. We chose the bar to sit at, the heart of the shoppe. Stephane filled the place with his usual humble smile, explaining wines and offering tips with a colorful French accent.

My attention was diverted to one of the wine advisers who was pouring a double mixture into a tall, slender glass. I inquired about it. Stephane informed, "If you are looking for something light and refreshing, the Belini is a good choice." The wine adviser, sporting a British accent, poured the mixture and I tried my first $3 Belini. I downed  the bubbly blend of champagne and peach schnapps while pondering this paradox: A Brit and a Frenchman behind the same bar. Miracles never cease to amaze. Time passes by quickly when you are sipping wine and making with the chit-chat, and that is what Accent on Wine is all about. There is no loud music in the background. Just the pleasant sound of laughter and friendly talk.

Keri living a dream

There will be one more last summer evening Third Thursday August 16th before the kids go back to school. Live music will be all over town and the usual Art Walk. The following Saturday, August 18th, Summerville's residents by the thousands will gather for the "Summerville Night at The Joe". There will be pre-game festivities to partake in and then watch the Riverdogs take on Augusta. August 25th will be the 13th annual "Race for the Ark". The 5K race is held in historic Summerville winding through its beautiful streets. It benefits the Ark services.

Accent On Wine In Summerville-Serving Great Wine And Gourmet Items With Light Conversation

It was a typical TGIF night in Summerville. The sun had settled below the tree line. The last of its amber rays were filtering through the motionless trees. There was no breeze to play on the leaves or to evaporate the humidity that clung to my skin. I circled the square to evaluate the parking situation.

The Montreux was jam packed with local patrons on the prowl armed with an arsenal of one-liners looking to down some domestic suds with a side order of "are you from Tennessee". The bartenders masterfully juggled the drink requests while Zero To Never played loudly. If you were looking to have a quiet conversation, your were in the wrong place. The back patio was more conducive to chit-chat, if you didn't mind the smoke.

I was more specifically in town to case out one of Summerville's more popular, cozy establishments where conversation is as light as a Nederburg Lyric. I had to settle for a parking space with a bit of a walk and made the trek toward the W. Richardson end of the store strip right on the town square. The pavement was still warm from the days heat. My sandals were still slightly damp from an earlier swim.

When I entered through the store's door there was no mistaking the main attraction that draws the residents and visitors of Summerville to this quaint shop. Accent is on wine. The interior space was unobstructed, and even though the space was not large, the illusion of being larger than it actually was prevailed upon my senses. The walls on both sides were lined with shelves of bottled wine from all over the world. Seating was to the left and right by the front windows. A large bar was straight ahead from the entrance with wooden stools around its perimeter. The bar area was the obvious center of attention.

Shelves of wines

Some of the seating area

I took a seat at the bar. I was immediately greeted by the bartender. I am not a wine freak. I know wine basically as red and white, sweet and not so sweet. Beyond that, wine names are as illusive to me as the ghosts of Charleston. When I do drink wine, I usually choose red simply because I had read that red wine is better for you. Something to do with antioxidants. So, I was in serious need of assistance on what wine to select. A close friend sitting next to me already knew what she wanted and suggested I try her choice. The bartender quickly produced a glass and offered me a sample, which I appreciated. It was a Pinot Grigio produced by Cornaro from the region of Veneto, Italy. This selection was entered on the bill and attached to a small wind up toy with an identical one set on the bar in front of us. This was their unique way of keeping track of each customer's order.

While sitting at the bar, the conversations came as easy as swinging on the wooden swings in Waterfront Park on a Sunday morning. Within the few brief moments of introductions, I learned the couple to my left were regular visitors. They offered their experience and shared their life stories. Before my brief visit to Accent on Wine came to an end, I knew them intimately. It brought to mind a French proverb, "In water one sees one's own face, but in wine one beholds the heart of another." Sip on wine and suddenly you are a philosopher, eat chocolate and you are suddenly a lover. I apologetically hesitate calling the servers bartenders because they are much more. The two on duty that night fielded questions and orders proficiently. They are wine advisors. After leaving, I decided to return another day to get a more detailed summary of the story and the staff that make Accent on Wine a success.

Two days later I returned. I introduced myself to the wine advisor on duty, Joshua Walker, who was accompanied by Vinny Wedderspoon. He informed me the owner, Stephane Peltier, was not present. He was in France, which also is his place of birth. So, I didn't get to meet him in person. Joshua shared with me some background information on Stephane. First, he emphasized that Stephane is a humble man who doesn't like to elaborate about himself or his accomplishments, but wants all attention focused on the store and what it brings to historic Summerville. He was a sommelier for fourteen years at the prestigious Woodlands Inn with a resume that includes serving the Queen of England.

Vinny Wedderspoon and Joshua Walker

There were only two other patrons in the store besides myself. So, Joshua was able to take some time to enlighten me on what they offered. The store has a selection of wines you can purchase by the bottle, which includes 40 wines under $10 and 150 over $10. At the bar, 30 different wines are available for you to sample provided for the sole purpose of teasing your wine buds in the right direction. Aside from the wines, 50 specialty beers from around the world are offered. If you want something without the kick, there is a large selection of non-alcoholic beverages as well.

A great wine store for sure, but Accent on Wine is also a gourmet shop. It offers numerous cheese platters accompanied with bread and apple at $5 a serving. Charcuterie, seafood, pate', mousse, and terrine platters are offered at $5 a serving. But the highlight of my visit was being treated to Accent on Wine's offering called Lunch Bites. It is a three inch nosh served with apple slices, raisins, and nuts on a wooden platter. You can purchase one for $1.90, but bet you can't eat just one. I was served "The Vinny". C'est magnifique. There is a long list of "Lunch Bites" choose from. Menu selection.

The Vinny

Chocolat de Fumee

Accent on Wine is open 11am to 9 pm Monday to Wednesday, 10 pm Thursday to Saturday, closed Sunday. Tuesday is wine tasting day. July 24th is "Great Discovery Wines" event from 5pm to 7pm for $10 a person. Wednesday is "Teacher Appreciation Day" all day. Thursday is "Bellini Special Night" at only $3 a glass. July 31st is "Food and Wine Tasting with Paul from Sellsfish Premium Seafood" starting at 5 pm and ending 7 pm for $10. Location is 132 S. Main Street. Phone: 843-832-1212. Calendar of events.

The ladies should like this famous wine quote. "Men are like a fine wine. They all start out like grapes, and it's our job to stomp on them and keep them in the dark until they mature into something you'd like to have dinner with."