Vacation Rick

It Was A Third Thursday With The King Of Rock'n Roll And The James F. Dean Theatre

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:35:00 +0000

The rain and clouds had cleared out. The 6 o'clock skies were beginning to darken. The day was bidding a final farewell to the setting sun and embracing the arriving night. The air was comfortably warm for a February Thursday. "It's Now or Never." The downtown festivities were underway and no one would be asking "Are You Lonesome Tonight." Starry-eyed amatuer astronomers were setting up their telescopes on the corner of Old Central and W. Richardson Ave with hopes of catching a glimpse of a distant neighbor in the Milky way.

Happy patrons were already filling the restaurants and shops "You Can't Help Falling in Love" with along South Main Street. Sounds of "don't you step on my blue suede shoes" and "a hunk, a hunk of burning love" filled the courtyard near O'Lacy's Pub. A black modified zamboni operated by a man dressed in a star-studded white jump suit and cape with long sideburns, a funky black wig, and sunglasses breezed on by belting out tracks of "Fools Rush In" and "Love Me Tender." My "Suspicious Mind" arrived at the obvious conclusion it was Elvis Presley Night in Summerville. It was another edition of Third Thursday.

Third Thursday is an signature event sponsored by Summerville D.R.E.A.M. and celebrated each month throughout the year. The goal is to foster community spirit and ensure Summerville's economic vitality by promoting its businesses. Residents and visitors from throughout the Lowcountry and from around the nation come to experience its famed historic downtown district which offers live music and entertainment, fine arts and crafts and more. It begins at 5:00 pm and runs till 8:00 pm.

My focus this past Third Thursday was the historic James F. Dean Theatre near the corner of South Main Street and W. Richardson Ave. This old theater was built in 1935. It flourished as Summerville's movie house until the mid 1960's, then also known as "The Show." In 1976 the Flowertown Players bought and renovated the theater installing state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment with an emphasis on highlighting local talent. The theater group offers some unique opportunities for those interested in the acting arts and the processes involved in live stage productions. You can volunteer to help design the costumes, the building of the sets, or be an usher with the benefit of seeing the show for free. You can also audition for one of the acting parts.

I was taking pictures and making an attempt at politely soliciting some inside information on the upcoming production "Wait Until Dark," a play that was made famous by the movie bearing the same name released in 1967 just a few years after the Summerville theater closed as a movie house. So, it is likely the movie starring Audrey Hepburn was never shown at the downtown theater.

"Wait Until Dark" highlights one of the scariest movie moments in film history. When I heard the play was appearing at the James F. Dean Theater, my curiosity was peaked. During my visit, I got a preview glimpse of the set, which was receiving the final touches for opening night. Now, I am keenly interested in seeing how the play will duplicate the famous scary scene. The theater staff graciously offered me two complimentary tickets to the first showing. It opens March 2nd at 8:00 pm. It was a successful Third Thursday.

The next Third Thursday will be March 15th. Come and join the party. At some point in the night you will find me at Aura Lee's Jewelry, Handbags & Accessories making southern small talk and drinking northern beer, which is made available for free courtesy of Aura Lee's. Stop by and say hello. I would very much like to meet you.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition February 17-19-A Wild Great Time

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Often, with our busy day to day lives manufactured to ensure our own survival, we are regrettably distracted from giving due gratitude to the seemingly lesser things of this often very cold, cruel world, and if I may add without hesitation, it would be a colder, crueler world if these lesser things didn't exist at all. They have no clue as to why they do what they do, they just do. Only we, who are the crowning achievement of a master plan, have been endowed with the capacity to comprehend and understand their impact on our world. Only we have been gifted with the aptitude to appreciate the awe and spendor they unknowingly grace our lives with. They sustain us. They entertain us. They enrich us. They inspire us.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is one of those rare occassions afforded to us where we can pay tribute to the wildlife we coexist with on this beautiful blue jem in space we call Earth. Our natural environment has been under merciless siege for many years and wildlife habitats have been shrinking at alarming rates. One of the Expostions lofty goals is to increase our awareness of the natural gifts which are increasingly taken for granted with hopes of resulting in a new environmental morality. It focuses attention on local, regional and global issues presented in a forum which brings these issues "home" and personalizes them, with the hope that one day attention to conservation and environmental issues will be common place. Its other mission is to have a positive impact on the local and statewide economies through increased tourism. This is all achieved through art, exhibits, lectures, school programs, and financial giving.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, now in its 30th year, will host over 100 of the worlds finest wildlife artists, and that includes 23 local artists. There will be nearly 300 exhibitors. Marion Square Park will present a Birds of Prey Flight Demo each day. The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Show will be featured at the Gaillard Auditorium offering audiences the chance to see some amazing creatures and learn about their habits. There will be an Auction following Quick Draw and Speed Sculp at Charleston Place February 17, 5:00 PM. Complete list of events here.

Jack Hanna will be in attendance for a special treat. Jack Hanna has been educating people across the nation about animals for years. He has been a regular on the David Letterman Show and Larry King Live. Other shows include The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Hollywood Squares, The Maury Show, Entertainment Tonight, FOX News and CNN programs, and various other news programs (as a wildlife correspondent). The Columbus Zoo in Ohio is his home base. He has transformed the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium into a state-of-the-art park with the additions of Zoombezi Bay (waterpark), Jungle Jack’s Landing, and the Safari Golf Club. The zoo's newest expansion is the Polar Frontier region featuring brown bears, arctic fox and twin polar bears. Two shows at the Gaillard Auditorium February 17, 11:00 AM and February 18, 1:00 PM.

Charleston's Theaters Offer High Class Entertainment And Opportunity For The Talented

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +0000

Dock Street Theater stage

I recently did something I don't normally do. I watched the SAG Awards. I don't know what came over me. The beginning of the program captured my attention and from there I just lingered. At the opening credits different actors and actresses who were nominated for awards recounted how they got into acting.

Listening to the nominees speak of their first experience with acting took me back many years ago. Back to my first part on a stage in a live performance. I was eleven years old. It was a school play. I played the lead role as Robinson Crusoe in an adaptation of the novel written by Daniel DeFoe called "Robinson Crusoe." I also played a minor role as a pirate in the play. In my role as a pirate I wore the typical pirate eye patch. There was this one scene where I got the two characters crossed. I stepped out onto the stage as Crusoe wearing the eye patch. I forgot to remove it after the conclusion of a previous scene as the pirate. I didn't realize my wardrobe mistake until I looked out at the audience, and there was no turning back. Somewhat embarrassed, mostly self inflicted, I muddled through the scene. My error went unoticed, not a word was said about it. The play was a success.

Dock Street Theater mezzanine seating

If you enjoy acting and would like to participate in a live stage performance, Charleston theaters offer opportunities for individuals to audition for parts in upcoming plays. I have personally given consideration to auditioning. I think it would be an enjoyable experience. I am just waiting for a good pirate role to come available. On a recent outing into Charleston I walked through two of its theaters, talked to some of the staff, and took pictures. It was richly informative and no, I didn't see or hear any ghosts.

Charleston Stage is the resident acting company performing at the Dock Street Theater. The Dock Street Theater was the first building in America built exclusively to be used for theatrical performances. The original building burned in the Great Fire of 1740, which destroyed many of the buildings in Charleston's French Quarter. In 1809 the Planters Hotel was built at the location. The Hotel ultimately fell into disrepair and slated for demolition. It was saved and efforts began to turn it into a theater once again. It reopened in 1937 as the Dock Street Theater. In 2007 it closed again and after a three year, 19 million dollar renovation, the theater opened its doors again in 2010.

Dock Street Theater bar

The Dock Street, located at 135 Church Street, is a beautiful proscenium space theater with seating for 430 people. Proscenium space refers to the front stage between the curtain and orchestra. The ornate wood interior gives it a warm, rich feeling. It has mezzanine seating with an excellent view of the stage and is outfitted with state-of-the-art lighting and sound. The theater hires actors from the Unified Professional Theatre Auditions for their Resident Acting Intern Program, which is held in February of every year. If interested contact Charleston Stage auditions. You can also volunteer to work backstage or on costumes and scenery. If interested contact Charleston Stage volunteer opportunities.

Footlight Theater stage

The Footlight Players are associated with the Footlight Theater located at 20 Queen Street. The building was originally an old cotton warehouse built in 1850. At first it was only used for storage and scenery construction. After a dramatic renovation in 1986 the Footlight Players moved into the building for good. During my walk through I noticed all the seats had a small metal plate mounted on the backs with names of people engraved on it, some stating "In memory of" and others "In honor of." They are individuals who made donations to the theater, some still living, some not. When those still living buy tickets for plays they can request their permanently reserved seat, if they choose to do so.

Painting on a wall in Footlight Theater

The Footlight Players are very similar to the Flowertown Players when it comes to auditions. It is open to the public. They are presently taking auditions for "The Bible: The Complete Word of God (Abridged)" scheduled for opening March 29 and will run to April 7. March 4 and 5 auditions will be held for "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum." Six men and seven woman will be needed to fill the roles. March 18 and 19 auditions will be held for "Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)." Two men and two woman will be needed for that play.

The Flowertown Players, James F. Dean Theatre in Summerville, held open auditions on January 10th and 11th for the 1966 stage play written by Frederick Knott called "Wait Until Dark", which will be presented beginning March 2nd. The film adaptation released in 1967 starring Audrey Hepburn thrilled audiences and was ranked tenth on Bravo's 100 Scariest Movie Moments for its climactic scene. Perhaps, you remember the climactic scene when the theater dimmed its lights, then turned them off after each light on-screen was shattered one by one by Susy Hendrix(Audrey Hepburn), resulting in the theater being plunged into complete darkness. Seconds ticked off in that heightened state of suspense. Then surprisingly, the killer leaped from the shadows. My friends literally jumped out of their seats. It will be interesting to see how the Flowertown Players will duplicate that infamous scary scene.

So, join in the fun of acting, if you dare. If not, buy a ticket and enjoy the show. You can not beat the feel of a live performance. Maybe, you will see some crazy guy up on the stage wearing an eye patch, wielding a sword, and inviting you to "Drink up me hearties. Drink up."

The Broadway Musical That Is "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious"-Now In Charleston

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:27:00 +0000

"Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Even though the sound of it is something quite atrosicous! If you say it loud enough, you'll always sound precocious." Who could forget a word like that? For as long as it is, it is a simple word to repeat. Then there was "A spoon full of sugar makes the medicine go down."

Everyone remembers "Mary Poppins." She was the "Harry Potter" of the 1960's. Although, she did'nt fly around on broomsticks at the speed of sound waving a wand with magical powers. She floated around on a magical umbrella helping children everywhere when they were most in need and singing happy songs. Because Mary was "Practically perfect in every way."

"Mary Poppins" was a 1964 musical film starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, produced by Walt Disney. It won the Academy Award for Best Actress and the film also won Oscars for Best Film Editing, Original Music Score, Best Song, Best Visual Effects, and received a total of 13 nominations. The movie was based on the Mary Poppins books series by P. L. Travers with illustrations by Mary Shepard.

As with all movies, the storyline sometimes goes alittle different than the book. In the movie, Mary was not only firm, but kind and gentle as well. In the book the character was strict and pompous. Not quite the kind of lead character you would see in a Disney movie unless you were casting for a cruel step mother or an evil queen with a magical mirror. And definately wouldn't be singing and dancing to "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious". Also, Mary Poppins was George Banks(the children's father) own nanny when he was a child, but was left out of the movie, except for few hints, you would miss it if you aren't paying close attention.

Mary Poppins is now one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge from London and New York in recent years. It is now appearing at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center for a four-day engagement, February 1 to 4. The New York Post gives it a 4 out of 4 star rating. Variety raved about it saying, "This is the rare touring production that over-delivers on every level." So, gather up the kids and join in the fun. They will forget about Harry Potter, at least for a short time, and will be singing "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." Tickets and times.

Disney World Is Never Too Far From My Thoughts-Always Entertaining And Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:53:00 +0000

It is amazing how certain smells and sounds can evoke memories. It is a sense similar to deja vu, but not as haunting. Deja vu is a sensation that a present experience you are undergoing has genuinely happened in the past, but the exact circumstances of the prior encounter are uncertain and were perhaps an illusion. It's the "I've been here before" syndrome. I have personally experienced such feelings, but I assure you it had nothing to do with having seen the future. Some things appear familiar because they remind us of a similar event or happening that resides deep in our memories and overtime became vague, but not forgotten.

There was a film, perhaps you have seen it, bearing the title "Deja Vu" that featured Denzel Washington in the lead role. In the movie he worked as an ATF agent, Doug Carlin, who was investingating a horrific bombing of a ferry in New Orleans. While investigating, a woman's body was found near the site of the bombing and he makes a connection between that and the ferry incident, even though the timming of the two incidents didn't corralate. Soon after, he is approached by a man, played by Val Kilmer, who was involved in a secret government project and asked if he would be interested in assisting the group in their investigation. The project experimented with folding time over itself through the use of worm holes, so they could view the past, and by such a method, solve the crime.

At first, Carlin thought he was just watching videos from cameras and satelites. He suggested they follow the woman's everyday past activities. He had a hunch it would lead them to the bomber. Then, he realized it wasn't just video tapes he was watching, but was the actual past. To make the long story short, he gets sent back in time, prevents the bombing, saves the girl, but he himself gets blown up in the process, that is, his future self. Then, his past self is called to the bombing scene and meets for the first time the woman his future self just saved, in the past. He experiences a moment of deja vu and ends the movie with the word, "Naw."

Well, that's deja vu. The feeling I am refering to is more likely a deja entendu. A response to a scent or sound that triggers a memory of a real past experience or place. You may wonder where am I going with this, and rightly so.

I get this overwhelming urge to travel, and more recently, I have been contemplating on taking a trip that is long over due. So, I have been preoccupied with thoughts of places I have been and those I would like to return to. Today, I had one of those captivating moments. I was at Starbucks and just put in an order for my usual green tea frappuccino. While I waited at the end of the counter for it to be blended, the store atmosphere and chatter of the patrons evoked a memory. For a brief interim of time I was transported to the dining facilities in the French Quarter of Port Orleans, Disney World Orlando. I think it was the sweet smell of the pastries more than anything else that summoned the recollection.

Then there was the other day, I was watching "Braveheart." The clansmen were playing the outlawed bagpipes in a tribute to William Wallace's father who was murdered by the henchmen of Longshanks. Suddenly, I found my myself, not literally but figuratively mind you, whisked away to Disney Worlds Epcot World Showcase area. I was sitting in the cantina by the water in Mexico, sipping on a margarita, listening to the legato sounds of Scottish bagpipes drifting over the water from across the way in Canada. The Celtic band, Off Kilter, were performing one of their nightly sets.

Disney World is never too far from my thoughts. I have traveled there often through the years and have built up quite a repertoire of fond memories with the family. The most memorable being the year I was in the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney Hollywood Studios and also chosen to participate in the Studio Backlot Tour. Time marches on and all things change, even Disney.

All my kids are on their own now. That is good thing. As a parent, it is what you sacrifice for, to finally see them make their way in the world and succeed at it. I am now an empty nester and a senior citizen. It is strange to say that because I am truly a kid at heart and always will be. I am anxiously waiting for my grandchildren to become of age, so I can take them to "The Happiest Place on Earth."

Disney has long positioned itself as "The Happiest Place on Earth", and it goes to great lengths to maintain that illusion. I have watched and experienced its growth through the years with great enthusiasm. As the technologies advance, Disney embraces them with a ummatched passion dedicated to the idea, "If you can imagine it, you can do it." And 2012 is no exception.

Magic Kingdom's Fantasyland is undergoing a transformation and guests may get their first glimpse of the changes by summer. Star Tours re-opened May 20 to rave reviews. Its experience has been enhanced and now provides over 50 ride combinations, so riders will likely see something new every time they ride. Rapunzel, along with Flynn Rider from the Walt Disney Pictures animated feature "Tangled," are now greeting guests of all ages in a new interactive "play and greet." Two new eateries opened this past fall in Epcot's World Showcase Italy and Mexico pavilions. For the runners, there is Disney's Princess Half-Marathon Weekend-February 24-26, 2012.

Enough talk, enough dreaming, I'm ready to go. I just need someone to go with. Say the magic word and we are off. And when you do finally see me there, be sure to say hello.
Disney's Port Orleans Resort French Quarter
All Disney World accommodations

Take A Trip To Where "The Birds" Ruled The Skies

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:04:00 +0000

"It's the end of the world," said the man sitting at the end of the bar with a capricious smile and a drink in his hand. The place was Tides Wharf Restaurant located in Bodega Bay, CA. It was a scene from the Alfred Hitchcock classic thriller "The Birds." Bodega Bay was the place where Melanie Daniels(Tippi Hedron) was unexplainably attacked by a lone seagull while heading towards a dock in an outboard motor boat where her love interest, Mitch Brenner(Rod Taylor), awaited her arrival. The Tides Wharf Restaurant was where Mitch took Melanie to care for her bleeding head. Later, at the same restaurant, a debate ensued between some of the patrons as to the strange behavior of the birds. "Not likely," said a bird lover and amateur ornithologist concerning the likelihood of a bird exhibiting violent tendencies towards humans.

Birds have been known to swoop down on cats, and even people, if they consider them a threat to their nests. I have been a witness to such curious behavior. There have been times when I have observed a little bird menacing another bigger bird for some reason unknown to me, but to attack a human without provocation, that would be out of character in the world of birds. On one occasion, I was dive bombed by some seagulls while eating at Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando, but the birds were more interested in the food I was holding than taking out some anonymous vendetta against me. The family owned parakeets when I was just a toddler. I don't particularly recall any malevolent behavior on their part. Although, when it sat on my shoulder, it would peck my ear. It was somewhat bossy at times. Always told me to take out the garbage. Should I have been concerned?

The schoolhouse today

As the movie progressed the attacks from our fine feathered friends become more frequent and vicious. If you dare to watch the movie at some point in time you may want to close your eyes when Mitch's mother visits a neighbor friend. It isn't a pretty sight. Then there was the scene after the crows attacked the children as they left the schoolhouse. Mitch finds the school teacher(played by Suzanne Pleshette) laying on the ground outside her home. Let's just say the birds have a thing about eyes.

They seemed to defy the idea that birds of a feather flock together only. These were no mere random acts or isolated incidents. Their manuevers gave the appearance of being coordinated with one prime objective, punish man. The movie doesn't come right out and say that, Hitchcock leaves that up to us to figure out. At the climax of the movie, when Mitch and his family along with Melanie are forced to leave their battered home, one of the birds takes a parting shot with a peck to Mitch's hand as if to say, "It isn't over. It's only the beginning."

Scene from movie inside Tides Wharf Restaurant

Thus was the premace of Hitchcock's first horror/fantasy film that scared audiences back in the early sixties. Bodega Bay was the setting he chose. It is a real place just north of San Francisco in the Sonoma Coast region. Hitchcock chose it because of its foggy weather and skyline, which at that time was subdued and open. It has been about fifty years since the movies release and the Visitor Center in Bodega Bay receives thousands of Hitchcock fans every year.

You can visit the Tides Wharf Restaurant, it is a real place also, although it has been remodeled several times since and has expanded into a complex including an inn. The ranch and the dock where Mitch lived all burned down in the late 60's. The old Potter schoolhouse is the only original building used in the movie that stands to this day and you won't find it in Bodega Bay. It is located some six miles inland in the town of Bodega. The schoolhouse was an abandoned building when it was first discovered by Hitchcock and rebuilt for the movie. Years later, it became a bed and breakfast, but now is a private residence. You can take pictures of it, but no longer able to tour it. You could politely ask the present owner, but the response may not be as polite. I read that in a review. The school teacher's house next to the schoolhouse was only a facade built for the movie.

Some suspicous looking gulls in Charleston, SC

I was just a young man entering my teens in 1963 when "The Birds" made its debut. The movie has since been a favorite. My mother owned a copy on VHS, along with other Hitchcock classics, which were part of a collection. It came up missing quite frequently, but everyone in the house knew where it likely disappeared to. Hitchcock's spellbinding masterpiece has had an effect on my psyche. Whenever I see birds massing together I wonder, "Could this be it." There is a passage from the book of Revelation in the Bible that speaks of the birds being called to a great evening meal of God where they will eat the flesh of men. I wonder if Alfred had this text in mind when he was first inspired to write the script and storyboards?

One last parting thought. The ending we have become accustomed to seeing in the movie was not part the original script. The ending that was supposed to be was scraped due to costs. Picture in your mind the great Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco covered with birds. "It's the end of the world."

Restaurant Week In Charleston-Make a Date With The Cities Top Chefs And Restaurants

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 04:48:00 +0000

It is that time of the year again food lovers in Charleston. It is Restaurant Week, and not just in Chartleston, but all over South Carolina. So, if you are feeling adventurous or romantic and want to spend a night away from homebase, let's say in Myrtle Beach, you have a whole list of participating establishments to choose from for your stay. But for this article I am going to focus on the capital of what has become known as Lowcountry Cuisine, Charleston.

Lowcountry Cuisine is closely associated with the cuisine of another popular southern city, New Orleans. The cultural influences found in New Orleans are very much similar to those of Charleston, which include the English, French, Spanish, Irish, Italians, Africans, and Caribbean Islanders who settled here over three centuries ago. They all brought with them the tastes from their native lands and over these passing centuries have blended their distinctive recipes together using Charleston's geography as the food palate because its geography is a critical factor in distinguishing the region's culinary identity.

Charleston's rich estuary system provides an abundance of shrimp, fish, crabs, and oysters captured daily aong with locally grown squash, green beans, broccoli, spinach, okra, collards, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, a number of different lettuces and a variety of herbs that are the prime ingredients used to capture this flavor of Charleston. Some Lowcountry signature dishes are she-crab soup, Huguenot torte, benne wafers, fried green tomatoes, sweet potato pone, crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and frogmore stew.

Today, it is much more than just the Lowcountry Cuisine. American, French, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Cajun, Creole, and about anything else food experts crave can be found in the Holy City. Charleston is home to many internationally known chefs. Some of the better known are Chef Jason Houser of the Muse, Chef Jon Cropf of Blu Restaurant and Bar, Chef John O'Brien of Bocci's Italian Restaurant, Chef Jude Wagner of The Library at Vendue Inn, Chef Steven J. Lusby of 82 Queen, Chef Marc Collins of Circa 1886, and Chef Sean Brock of McCrady's to name a few. Charleston has more fine dining establishments per capita than any other city in the South.

My first dining experience in Charleston, some eight years ago, was at Hymans Seafood. It became a favorite during those early years of vacationing here before deciding to make Charleston my home. On those occasions I looked forward to seeing what celebrity previously sat at the very same table I was now seated. The restaurant had a custom of putting the names of notable people that visited their establishment on the tables. An unfortunate circumstance, my camera was stolen by one of its employees, changed all that, and I never returned.

My most notable dining experience was at the Woodlands Inn in Summerville. The staff treated us like royalty. They were hospitable, gracious, and attentive from beginning to end. The setting of the table, the care taken in clearing it for each course of the meal, and the presentation of each dish was professional. What I really appreciated was the opportunity they gave us to sample various dishes that were not a part of our selection. It most likely was a plus that a nephew of mine worked in the kitchen.

So, go ahead, pick one from the long list of participating restaurants. Now is the opportunity to check out the one restaurant you have been wanting to experience. May I suggest Bocci's, one of my favorite. High Cotton, whether it be breakfast or dinner is always an excellent choice. Make it a family affair or a romantic evening out. All are ready to cater to your taste buds with their own personal blend of herbs and spices perfectly matched to the offering sprinkled with a pleasing ambience and southern hospitality.

Some available hotel romance packages. Woodlands Inn specials and packages.

Charleston Parrotheads-The Jimmy Buffet Party Is Coming To Town

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:01:00 +0000

It is somewhere between the Port of Indecision and southwest of Disorder, but no parallels of latitude and longitude mark the spot exactly. You don't have to be a navigator to get there. Palm trees provide the camouflage. Ocean breezes bring the seaplanes and sailboats, tourists, and travelers. Passports are not required. This is where it is, but what is it? It is Margaritaville, and the exact physical location can be anywhere you want it to be, for the reason that Margaritaville is purely a state of mind.

This coming February 2nd, a Thursday, that state of mind will be transformed into the North Charleston Coliseum. The Kahoona of the Parrotheads, Jimmy Buffet and the Coral Reefer Band, will breeze into town for a one night party starting at 8 PM. Passports are not required, but a ticket will be essential.

You know when Buffet is around it's going to be a party. His music is catchy and lyrics easy to remember. His songs portray a laid-back, easy going lifestyle with a humorous, carefree outlook towards setbacks and problems. Nothing some booze from a blender, likely a frozen concoction made from tequila, couldn't solve. An "island escapism" kind of state of mind outfitted with flip-flops, shorts, and tank tops. Margaritaville is his signature song and a crowd favorite. Why, you may even see me singing it while on a cruise in the Caribbean. Other crowd pleasers are Cheeseburger in Paradise, Bama Breeze, Fins, Come Monday, A Pirate Looks at Forty, and Volcano.

If you want to get the true feel of Margaritaville, book a stay at Margaritaville Beach Hotel in Pensacola Beach, Florida. The hotel sits on over 800 feet of gulf-front property. An additional 800 feet overlooks the bay. The new beachfront hotel features 'barefoot elegance' with 162 newly appointed guest rooms. It has a poolside tiki bar, LandShark Landing with live entertainment, snacks, beverages and an array of activities including beach ping pong, volleyball, hammocks under the palm trees, and Frank and Lola Love Pensacola Cafe named after "Frank and Lola," a 1982 Jimmy Buffett song. Room prices range from $129-$199. Check out the special packages.

If you are in or plan to visit Myrtle Beach, put Margaritaville Cafe located in Broadway at the Beach on your restaurants to visit list. Great seafood or just try their famous Cheeseburger in Paradise along with the concoction most likely to be offered while your are in Margaritaville. The last time I was there the Stiltwalkers were out entertaining the young ones with their tricks and balloon figure-making skills. Click here for the complete schedule of the Stiltwalkers. After dinner, the restaurant transitions into a swinging nightclub where dancing is a must and live bands perform every night of the week.

There are no hotels or cafes in Charleston, but there is a Margaritaville Store for all the Parrotheads to buy the latest goods. It's located at 282 King Street. To access a complete list of Margaritaville's click destinations.

Where does tequila come from? It is made from the Blue Agave plant. It takes 8-12 years for the plant to reach maturity and ready for harvesting. Tequila is a small town in the valley of Jalisco, Mexico. Who is the largest consumer of tequila? The United States consumes more than Mexico.

NASA says, "Don't Worry"-So Charleston Be Happy And Let's Golf

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:45:00 +0000

The fireworks have been exploded, the bottles of bubbly have been popped, and the resolutions have been made. Out with the old and in with the new, 2011 has run its course and it is now 2012 according to our Gregorian calendar. A leap year, an election year, a year of unknowns yet to be written, and the end of the Mayan Long Count calendar. We all know what a leap year is and we are mercilessly reminded of the coming election daily, but what is the Mayan Long Count calendar? For those who don't know, it consists of a 144,000 day cycle of which there have been a total of 12 thus far and the 13th will end this year, totaling almost 5,200 years in the Mayan cycle of creation. Still don't understand it, don't fret, it's of little consequence.

Much has been said about the Mayan calendar and much speculation as to what it means ranging from the preposterous to the ridiculous. Some fear and believe since the calendar is ending, the world will end with it. So, if the doomsdayers are to have their way you will need to keep your eyes on the skies. There is one belief a planet called Nibiru is going to collide with earth. Other scenarios include cosmic alignments, solar storms, a flip-flopping Earth, and other cosmic impacts the likes of which was depicted in the movie "Armageddon."

The last real world catastrophe recorded for posterity, according to Biblical chronology in 2370 B.C.E., was the Deluge, but the rainbow's appearance from time to time is God's assurance to all living things a world flood would never happen again. Why should the animals suffer because of man's failures. Besides, there is always the rapture, but I am not going there. People already had a field day on that one in the spring of this past year, which then became October, and nobody flew the coop.

NASA has assured us that nothing out of the ordinary is going to happen December 21, 2012 other than the winter soltice. Now, does that give you a warm fuzzy feeling and calm your fears? With the countries budget crisis moving into 2012, can NASA even assure us they will still be around after all is said and done? My theory on the whole matter of the Mayan calendar is the Mayan's never got a chance to carve out the next calendar because their civilization went extinct. So, there you have it.

Today, January 2, 2012, the sun is shining upon Charleston in more ways than one. "If you build it they will come." Charleston has built a superior reputation for being the most hospitable and appealing city in the country, at least with the folks at Conde Nast Traveler. It was voted the number place of choice to visit going into 2012. The top events are already set in place on the calendar.

This August 9-12 the strongest field in major championship golf will descend upon the Charleston area for the 94th PGA Championship. The Kiawah Island Golf Resort will host the championship with its famed Ocean Course center stage. The 2012 Championship has seen the most successful presale in PGA history, which is both a testament to the popularity of golf in South Carolina and the level of excitement people have throughout the state. It is estimated the 2012 PGA Championship will bring more than 50,000 visitors to South Carolina with an economic impact of more than $92 million.

If you would like to purchase grounds tickets there are some available for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, so purchase them now here. If you would like to volunteer there are a limited amount of positions left, 75 per cent have already been filled, volunteer here.

I am going to make a prediction. When December of this year finally does arrive, that is if the world doesn't end before then, there will more than likely be a slew of Mayan calendar doomsday parties. After all, it tis the season to be jolly. Wow, just imagine, if the Earth should flip-flop that means the North Pole will become the South Pole and vica versa. We would then be in the Southern Hemisphere. Well, it's all relative anyway.

A Piece of Charleston History Pulled From The Ocean Dating Back To The Civil War

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:06:00 +0000

The Hunley preserved in the tank

Many years ago in my mischievous youth, we would impale these onto our bicycle spokes with a clothes pin. The idea behind this peculiar behavior was to make our bikes sound like they were motorized. The louder, the better, so more than one was often employed to achieve the desired effect. The bubble gum that accompanied these, shaped into sugar coated thin squares, was the first thing pulled from the wrapping and while chewing it to a consistency necessary to blow into balloon shapes, we would quickly shuffle through the rest of the contents with hopes of acquiring the one cherished piece that would make you the envy of your peers. Doubles were inevitable and often became the fodder for the aforementioned practice.

It appears the practice has become extinct. I haven't observed any kids riding around the neighborhood these days with this item flapping on their spokes. Children today are too technically sophisticated for such simple minded inventions and collecting apps is the more desired preoccupation of the young. Come to think of it, clothes pins are a rather rare commodity themseves. As for the item, I don't even know if they sell them anymore. Enthusiasts of this forgotten custom of a bygone era who have them in their possession today, whether by accident or design, benifit greatly. Quite simply put, I speak of baseball cards.

Baseball card collecting was popular in those early years, but something else became available in the form of collectable cards during the 1960's. Collectable cards portraying the American Civil War were printed and sold. Each card depicted a notable battle or person that was involved in this conflict that split the United States in two. Some of the more significant events I remember from those cards was the shelling of Fort Sumter, the Battle of Bull Run, the encounter between the Monitor and the Merrimack, Stonewall Jackson being shot by his own troops, the Battle of Gettysburg, and Robert E. Lee surrendering at Appomattox, to name a few. Since I also liked to draw, I often carefully recopied battle scenes on paper with pencil and crayon. Those cards were the spark that lit the fire of my interest in wanting to learn more about that part of history.

I am from Northeastern Ohio, and in that part of the U.S. you are far removed from the many notable places and events of the Civil War, but here in the South, in Charleston, you are in the heart of it all. It is tightly weaved into the very fabric of Charleston's identity and for visitors it is inescapable, both by land and water. The Spiritline Cruises in Charleston Harbor shuttles people back and forth on a daily basis to the place where it all started, Fort Sumter. The guides on one of the numerous historic carriage rides seen criss-crossing the historic district are dressed in Confederate uniforms. You can get up close and personal by physically touching the iron mortars and cannon at Fort Moultrie or White Point Gardens that were used to bombard Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861.

A replica of the interior

One notable event I do not recall seeing on those cards was the infamous sinking of the USS Housatonic just outside of Charleston Harbor by the Hunley in 1864. In fact, my first exposure to the story of the Hunley was by way of a movie and then in more detail, when I moved to Charleston. Most likely, there are alot of people in this country who don't know the Hunley exists or its story. For those who don't, the Hunley was the first successful combat submarine. Successful, meaning the Confederate submarine accomplished its one and only mission. It didn't successfully return to port. The Hunley disappeared under the waters off of Sullivan's Island and for 136 years its fate remained a mystery.

Its final resting place was discovered and in 2000 the Hunley was carefully and meticulously raised, still in tack, from the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. There are theories as to what happened to the Hunley, but no one really knows for sure what caused its demise. Scientists have been puzzling over the remains of the Hunley since its recovery, searching for clues that will assist them with providing a feasable hypothesis.

You can view the Hunley and the artifacts uncovered with it at its own museum where it is displayed in a 90,000 gallon conservation tank. Museum location is the Warren Lasch Conservation Center, 1250 Supply Street (on the old Charleston Navy Base), North Charleston, South Carolina. A startling discovery was made in 2002 while researching the interior of the sub that confirmed a long held legend. For the complete story of this find and tour information go to Friends of the Hunley.

An Isolated Island Bed And Breakfast In The Heart Of The San Francisco Bay Area

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:06:00 +0000

A gracious relic of the past, it is an island unto itself. It is unique among its kind. Originally there were six like it, but only three are sill standing. At one point in time its future had become uncertain. It survived because it is historically intrinsic and loved by many. Now 133 years old, it is a matchless Califronia destination with a spectacular view. It is the East Brother Lighthouse.

The East Brother Lighthouse quite literally sits on top of an island in the strait that separates San Francisco and San Pablo Bays. The lighthouse began operation in 1874. The original lens was illuminated by a wick filled with whale oil. Later the means of illumination was replaced by a fifth-order Fresnel lens, powered by a 500-watt bulb. The San Francisco Bay area is one of the foggiest places on the coast, so the island lighthouse was also outfitted with a fog horn. The keepers lived on the island with their families and cared for its operation until it became automated in 1969.

The lighthouse is of a unique design. The tower is attached to a two story Victorian style house. There were five other lighthouses built in this design located at various places on the United States coastline, but aside from East Brother only two are still standing. Not far down the coastline from San Francisco near Los Angeles in the San Pedro Bay is one of them, the Point Fermin Lighthouse. The other is on the east coastline in New Jersey called Hereford Light.

The future of the East Brother Lighthouse became uncertain. A fire incident destroyed the island's wharf and boathouse. After it was automated, the keepers were no longer needed. The Victorian style house sat neglected and void of life. The government wanted to tear it down. Thanks to local residents who saw value in the past and the necessity to preserve its heritage, an outcry arose protesting its demolition. The Victorian house and other buildings were saved and steps were taken to restore it, not just to its former glory, but into a place where all who want to experience the wonder of a lighthouse with a beautiful vista for a magnifacent backdrop can do so.

Two Sisters Room

The East Brother Lighthouse is now an island bed and breakfast. There are five available rooms. Four of the rooms are in the lighthouse itself and the fifth is in the original Fog signal Building. The rooms are beautifully appointed and each has its own stunning view of the Bay area and surrounding landscape or seascape, whichever you prefer. Your stay includes champagne and hors d’oeuvres upon arrival, a multi-course dinner with wine and a full gourmet breakfast the next morning. If you would like the warmth and romantic atmosphere a fireplace provides, the Two sisters Room would be your likely choice, if you seek more privacy, the Walter's Quarters in the Fog Signal Building 100 feet from the lighthouse, closest to the water. Prices are $355 to $415 per night.

The island is a ten minute boat ride from the mainland. It is 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco. Once on the island, you will be treated to spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline, Mount Tamalpais, and the Marin coastline. Your senses will be immersed and soothed by the smell of the bay, the sound of the lapping water on the rocky outcrops, and your imagination can take flight or stay put, its all the same either way, nostalgic and reinvigorating. You will find out why San Francisco has been the top rated destination for many years among travelers. That is, until Charleston recently took the top spot. East Brother Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast reviews. Reservations 510-233-2385.

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Charleston And The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island-Somewhere In Time

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:32:00 +0000

In 1980 (Wow, time really does fly by quickly), Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour starred in the romantic science fiction film "Somewhere in Time." To make a long story shorter, Reeves portrayed a playwright who receives a watch from a mysterious woman many years his age accompanied with the plea, "Come back to me." Eight years later, he becomes obsessed with her after finding out who she was in earlier times while staying at the famous Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan. An obsession that would take him on a journey back in time.

No machine, like the kind you would see in other movies of this genre and subject matter, was employed to carry him back. All he needed to do was dress himself in clothing of the era, close his eyes, and with complete concentration immerse his thoughts and psyche into the time and place he desired to be at, which was 1912, where Jane Seymour awaited his coming. The story has both a tragic and happy ending, if you believe in such things as life after death.

I have always been fascinated with the theory of time travel, though I do not believe it to be attainable and theoretically is impossible for us mortals. It still boggles my mind that when you look at a mirror you are looking into your past because it took time for the light to move from the mirror back to your eyes, no matter how minute that movement is perceived to be. It all has something to do with gravity and the speed of light spattered with quantum physics. Perception plays a key role both in the movie and this article.

The Grand Hotel was the perfect setting for this film because it possesses a mystique that has the ability to capture your imagination and for the brief moments you are there transplant you into its charming and elegant past. The Grand Hotel was built in 1887 and has accommodated presidents, foreign dignitaries, and famous inventors and writers. It is visually stunning. The hotel boasts having one of the longest porches in the world at 660 ft. At its opening, nightly rates ranged from $3 to $5. No two of the 385 guest rooms are designed alike. Rates today range from $433 for a guest room to 798 for a named room, which include a full breakfast, Grand Luncheon Buffet, and five-course dinner daily.

The Hotel possesses a long list of honorable mentions from Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure including the designation as a four-diamond resort and one of the top 10 U.S. historic hotels. If the credentials don't peak your interest, every October the hotel hosts an annual convention for fans of the cult-classic "Somewhere in Time."

Charleston, like the Grand Hotel, possesses that mystique. Position yourself at any entranceway or street corner in the historic district and merge your senses into the surroundings. If you concentrate hard enough you will be able to hear the commotion and sounds of its storied past and for that brief interim of time, maybe have an experience like the one in the movie. Close your eyes, can you feel it, can you hear it.

Families chattering about the days activities while sipping afternoon tea and basking in the coastal breeze on their porches along the waterfront of the Battery. Breathe in the nostalgic smells of the produce and goods while strolling through the Old Market area. Looking out over the harbor and seeing the tall masts and sails of the ships entering and leaving the busy port. The spectacle of cannon and motar fire bursting over Fort Sumter that early April morning. The snapping of the rope on which Stede Bonnet, the Gentleman Pirate, was hung in 1718 at White Point. Lavinia Fisher crying out before her hanging at the Old City Jail, "If anyone has a message for hell, give it to me-I'll deliver it," so the story goes. We will need verification of this one, so if you actually do travel back in time, send me an email.

The history of Charleston was not always charming and glamorous. There was a time when Charleston had fallen into near decay. A time when many of the restaurants, hotels, taverns, and buildings we enjoy today were empty and disintegrating structures foreboding doom, until a rebirth to preserve the past for posterity became the prime objective of city planning and historic Charleston was rescued.

Now, Charleston is the top destination in the nation among this countries many cities. No, Charleston doesn't have a hotel with a 660 ft porch like the Grand Hotel, but the Market Pavilion Hotel and Venue Inns both have roof top bars and enough hospitality to go around.

You don't actually have to close your eyes to experience the past, in Charleston you are surrounded by it. The clip-clop of horses hooves and the rattling of carriages from the numerous tours are everywhere. Women in hooped skirts greet you with a southern smile at the many historic plantations, dastardly pirates with their tall tales will amuse you, the Antebellum history will inform you, and its residents will invite you into their homes and gardens for a glimpse of its style and grace.

Charleston also has a savy nightlife with its many theaters and nightspots for drinks, music and dancing. While you are here, make sure you say hello to Alabaster, he resides at the South Carolina Aquarium.

Charleston Reigns Supreme As Top Destination Beating Out San Francisco

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:06:00 +0000

Dock Street Theater

We're number one, we're number one, and I ain't just blowing smoke up your Rhett Butler. Sorry Rhett, but "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn." Well, at least number one with over 27,000 readers of Conde Nast Travelers. Charleston for 14 years was in the top five cities, during which San Francisco reigned supreme for most of those years. Stephen Colbert of The Colbert Report, a native son who grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, on James Island, presented the award and said, "I've been all over the world, and Charleston is the most beautiful city I've ever seen." How's that San Fran.

What was it about San Francisco that made it a favorite destination for years by so many people? I have not been to San Francisco personally, so anything I know about the city is either by word of mouth or what I have read and pictures I have seen.

San Fran and Charleston are in some ways similar, but also quite different. You can't swim in the Pacific Ocean around San Fran without a wet suit because the temperature of the water rarely rises above 60 degrees. San Francisco is shrouded by fog throughout the year making it damp and cool. It has skyscrapers and big city traffic. On top of it, San Francisco has the locally famous naked guys walking around like they were in the Garden of Eden.

Charleston's water temperatures reach into the 80's during the summer months making it excellent for taking a dip in just a bathing suit or a bikini. It is one of the sunniest locations in the nation. My six years of observation and experience with Charleston's weather has taught me that during the fall and winter seasons it rarely rains, and fog is only a once in a while nuisance. There are no skyscapers in Charleston. In fact, there is the story that, either by law or out of respect, nothing can be built taller than the St. Matthew’s steeple within the Holy City. At least, that is what the tours tell us. The steeple rises 255 feet, 7 and 5/8 inches above sea level. And as far as the naked thing goes, that would not go over very well here in the Bible Belt. Thank God for that. You would not want to be following the bouncing balls of that song and dance.

San Francisco and Charleston both have beautiful beaches. They both have famous bridges. Both cities are centrally located near other popular destinations.

A two to three hour drive south from San Fran is one of the most stunningly beautiful places in the country, Pebble Beach's oceanside golf courses, Carmel by the Sea, the Big Sur, 17-Mile Drive, and Monterey, home of the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Go to the northeast some three hours and the roads will take you to sunny Lake Tahoe. The famous Napa Valley wine country is a short hop and a skip.

Two and a half hours to the north of Charleston is the ever popular Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. One and a half hours to the south is Charleston's sister city of the South, Savannah. Two cities that have so much in common historically and ghostly, but structurally layed out in their own unique ways. One hour outside of Charleston are Kiawah Island and the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, host of the 2012 PGA Championship.

One final similarity, and this is a unique feature I would take notice of. Both cities are some six hours from one of my all-time favorite destinations, Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida.

Well, that's the long and the short of it, more short than long. A tale of two cities sharing the same land mass called North America, one on the west coast, the other on the east coast, yet worlds apart.

So, celebrate Charleston and enjoy the honorary distinction of being number one. Our growing crop of award-winning restaurants and hotels has put the city over the top. Our hospitality and friendliness are scoring big too. Charleston was also awarded the honor of being Friendliest City in America from Travel + Leisure.

If you want to learn more about San Francisco from a southeners point of view checkout James A. Martin-A Southerner in San Francisco. Most of my information comes from a first hand observer. My son lived there for a few years and he loved it. He is a well known skateboarder who surfed and took frequent trips to Lake Tahoe for snowboarding. He once cycled from San Francisco to Cleveland, Ohio where he now lives.

Other rankings:
French Quarter Inn (No. 15-Top U.S. Hotels)
Charleston Place (No. 30-Top U.S. Hotels)
Planters Inn (No. 52-Top U.S. Hotels)
Market Pavilion (No. 62-Top U.S. Hotels)
John Rutledge House Inn (No. 16-Top U.S. Small Hotels)
Wentworth Mansion (No. 17-Top U.S. Small Hotels)
Wild Dunes Resort (No. 121-Top Mainland U.S. Resorts)

If you want more information on these and other attractions and landmarks go to the top of my blog and type what you are looking for in the search.

Where Have The Alligators Gone And Alabaster-The Rarest Of Gators

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Look closely for the alligator

With the end of summer and the advent of fall, we no longer see the alligators that once inhabited our ponds here in White Gables. Have you ever wondered where they go? Do they migrate to a warmer place? The answer to the second question is no. The answer to the first question is as follows. Just because you don't see them doesn't mean they are not there. That being said, alligators can travel over land or through rivers for several miles, so it is possible the alligators of White Gables could have moved to a more accommodating place to hunker down for the winter.

Alligators are just as much a part of Charleston culture as sweet tea. They fascinate us. We take are kids down to the ponds to watch them. We grab our cameras to photograph them. So, since they are fellow residents and neighbors, we need to know something about them.

Alligators can and do eat just about anything. Sticks, stones, bricks, and even aluminum cans have been found in the stomachs of mature alligators. Their stomachs are the most acidic of any vertebrate. I guess you could call them liter-debuggers. Still, that is not their preferred cuisine. They are carnivores, meat eaters that feed at night. If you think you are safe in a tree, think again. Alligators can leap 5 feet or more out of the water if they see something to their liking. They can even snatch a bird out of the air.

An alligator is not considered sexually active until it reaches 6 feet. In cooler regions of their habitat, such as North Carolina, that could take 16-20 years, and in warmer climates, 8-9 years. When they do reach maturity, alligators restrict their breeding and nesting activities to the warm summer months. Temperature is very important for the first half of incubation of the 40-60 eggs the female lays in built up mounds. Temperatures in the nest less than 86 degrees produce only females, temperatures above 90 degrees produce only males.

American alligators are cold-blooded animals, generally are active year round in South Carolina. They do not hibernate in the true sense, they do undergo periods of dormancy in cold weather months, November to March. They excavate a cave in the bank of a waterway and enlarge the inner chamber so a portion of it is above the water level, allowing them to surface occasionally to breathe. On exceptionally warm days they may pop theirs heads up to see what is going on.

Alligators can hold their breath up to an hour. So, if you see one and it dips below the water, getting its picture may involve a long wait. We should keep in mind that an alligator should NEVER, NEVER, NEVER be fed! The alligators get accustomed to people and, instead of fearing humans, they begin to expect people to feed them. This can lead to alligators being aggressive and a “nuisance species." Bad for them, bad for us. The American alligators habitat ranges from coastal North Carolina to the Everglades in Florida.

Visit the South Carolina Aquarium for a rare treat, an albino alligator. Its name is Alabaster. Alabaster is very rare because in the wild, albino alligators only have about a 24-hour survival rate. Alabaster is the newest addition to the Blackwater Swamp Exhibit. Visit the Aquarium and learn about this rare creature. See you there. Ticket prices for the Aquarium and 4-D theater.

Woodlands Inn And Resort of Summerville-Come For The Party On The Lawn

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 21:04:00 +0000

Today, November 8, 2011, it is 74 degrees and sunshine, sunshine, sunshine in Summerville, SC. Could it get any better? Maybe, alittle wine with the sunshine, and how about some song. Reminds me of a famous quote, "Who loves not wine, women and song, remains a fool his whole life long.” Let's take it a step further. Another quote, “I cook with wine, sometimes I even add it to the food.” Now you have all the ingredients for a goodtime: food, wine, and music.

Sunday, Nov 13, 2011, The Woodlands Resort Inn of Summerville, SC will be bringing all of these amenities together for their second annual Wine and Art Under the Pines. Regardless of the weather, you are invited to gather with other guests on the Woodlands Inn lawn for wine and food tastings, art displays and sales, a silent auction and musical entertainment.

The musical entertainment will be provided by former Summerville local singer/songwriter, Eddie Bush of One Flew South. That in itself is worth spending money on a ticket. Tickets are $35 per person until November 7th and are $50 thereafter. Time is 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Location is 125 Parsons Road Summerville, SC, 800-774-9999.

Eddie Bush is a standout favorite to all those familiar with the local music scene. For over two decades he had been a regular in local clubs as a solo performer and as the lead singer of the Eddie Bush Group. A self taught guitarist, his guitar skills earned him several first place honors in local battle of the bands contests in the 1990's.

Several years ago a solo release caught the attention of Nashville producer/songwriter Marcus Hummon. Eddie Bush was paired with Royal Reed and Chris Roberts. The result was the formation of pop country band, One Flew South, formed in the tradition of the Eagles, Poco, and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, with a little Alabama and the Beach Boys thrown in for good measure. What is there not to like about that.

The Woodlands Inn and Resort of Summerville is a restored 1906 Charleston estate. It has been restored to become a Five Star, Five Diamond Inn that rests on 42 private acres amidst a grove of palmettos, moss-draped oak, and towering magnolias. One of only four lodging properties in the United States to receive the Five Star and Five Diamond hotel awards for both lodging and dining.

It offers a dining experience that is world renowned, not to leave out, a local favorite. Its New American cuisine incorporates the freshest, most exclusive ingredients gathered by private gardeners, day-boat fisherman and farmers. The service by the dining staff is superlative, and I can personally vouch for that. The resort also has a two-bedroom, 1,300 square foot Country Cottage.

Morris Island Lighthouse-Once A Beacon Of Light, Now A Symbol Of Survival

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:07:00 +0000

The phrase, shifting sands of time, is an old saying usually associated with an hour glass. Its meaning forbodes a change in circumstances. A famous lighthouse outside of Charleston Harbor, once a proud guardian of the coastline, now a vanquished sentinel, was victimized by the shifting sands of time, literally. The lighthouse residents and visitors see today was constructed beginning in 1873 and completed 1876. It was named the Morris Island Lighthouse because that is where it once upon a time stood. Sounds like the beginning of a fairy tale, but this is no fairy tale.

The Morris Island Lighthouse no longer stands on Morris Island. The sands upon which it was built are no longer there and this is where our story has a twist. Once upon a time Morris Island was actually three islands that stretched from Folly Beach to Sullivan's Island and the lighthouse you see today was not the first Charleston lighthouse. The three islands were named Middle Bay Island, Morrison Island, and Cummings Point.

The first lighthouse tower built in 1767, stood 102 ft and had a revolving lamp with a range of 12 miles. In time, changing tidal currents altered the channel leading into Charleston and the three islands slowly merged into one and became just Morrison Island, later shortened to Morris. Then came the Civil War and the lighthouse suffered an explosive ending. Fleeing Confederate troops blew up the lighthouse so Union troops couldn't benefit from it.

The lighthouse we see today was the replacement for the first lighthouse. It stands at a height of 161 ft. This is where the story takes a twist. The channel shifted once again. This time threatening the Charleston Harbor, which could not be allowed to happen. Jetties were built, saving the harbor, but the result caused severe erosion on Morris Island. The island shrunk, many of the buildings, which included the keeper's house and a school house, were destroyed by other powerful natural forces or moved. Slowly, the shifting sands retreated from around the lighthouse. The light was automated in 1938 and the Fresnal lens was removed. It continued to operate until it was eventually decommissioned in 1962.

The lighthouse address is now several hundred feet in the ocean. Yes, literally surrounded by the deep blue sea. The Coast Guard planned on destroying it, but local residents came to the rescue. It is now privately owned and efforts are underway to preserve it.

The Morris Island Lighthouse is just one of many in a system of lighthouses built up and down the East Coast, standing as protectors and guides. Some of them are still active, some of them are not. Some of them are open to the public, some are not. They are great subjects for photographs and their history is fascinating. To see what life was like for the caretakers and keepers of the lighthouses, visit one and take on the experience of climbing the hundreds of stairs to the top. The view is spectacular.

The Morris Island Lighthouse, for obvious reasons, is not open to the public. You can view it from the shores of Folly Beach. Another historical site affected by the erosion was Fort Wagner, the famous Confederate fort featured in the movie "Glory" with Matthew Broderick as Colonel Robert Gould Shaw. Although the jetties caused the erosion of Morris Island, it saved Charleston Harbor, and is a great place to fish.

A Fresnel lens is a multi-part lens developed by French physicist and engineer Augustin-Jean Fresnel. When compared to a conventional lens it is much thinner, larger, and flatter, and captures more oblique light from a light source, thus allowing lighthouses to be visible over much greater distances. The lens installed at Morris Island was a first-order Fresnel lens, the largest, most powerful and expensive lens, with an illuminating apparatus fueled by mineral oil.
I recently went on a trip to Corolla, Outer Banks and toured the Currituck Lighthouse, which heightened my interest to check out Charleston's lighthouses.

A Great Time In Corolla At The Outer Banks, NC-Fishing, Golfing, Wild Horses, And A Lighthouse

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 15:17:00 +0000

Never turn your back on a seagull. You may say that is a strange way to start a travel article, but in this incident it is quite fitting, as you will see. So, I will continue with my analogy. Seagulls are bold, opportunistic thieves. Their boldness goes way beyond rudeness. I was surf fishing in Corolla at the Outer Banks. As I tended my line in the water, trying to anticipate the slightess nibble, which takes complete concentration, the notorious bandits made their move on my unattended bucket and bait behind me. The incursions forced me to divide my attention between my submerged hook and the gulls. It was a frustrating cycle. Despite the unwelcomed distraction, it was an excellent fall day on the nearly empty beaches of the Outer Banks.

The temperatures have cooled, the crowds departed, many of the shops closed, and the numerous transplanters from Europe have left, but the Outer Banks is still a good choice if you like the beach, fishing, sightseeing, and just plain old relaxation. I stayed at one of the numerous houses available for rent in Corolla, which is on the north end. I stayed for free by invitation from a friend. It is here the main road, Ocean Trail or 12, comes to an end. You can drive out onto the beach and continue north for a distance of 10 miles until you can go no further, if that is what you want to do. Signs are posted warning you not to park your vehicles on the side of the road and also one that tells you not to feed the wild horses. Yes, wild horses, the very same horses that were featured in the movie "Nights in Rodanthe." The movie gave the impression the Spanish Mustangs were in Rodanthe, but that was incorrect. The mustangs are at the north end near Corolla in the National Estuarine Research Reserve. The majestic breed is teetering on the brink of extinction, so if you would like to see them running free, do it immediately if not sooner.

I spent a few hours at one of the main tourist attractions, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. The Lighthouse is still in service and totally automated with a beacon that flashes in 20 second intervals, 3 seconds on, 17 seconds off. Open to the public, I traversed the 214 steps up to the tower walk at 158 feet, a task the keeper did every 2 1/2 hours to pull the weighted chains before it was automated. My companions, Gary, Marcus, and Addison, along with several other tourists made the climb up to the top where an iron platform and rail encircled the top, some of them hugging the outside lighthouse wall, fearful of looking down to the ground far below. While at the top I met Michelle, a photographer from Virginia, who I conversed with for a short time. She had visited many of the lighthouses up and down the East Coast, including one near Charleston, SC on Morris Island. This was her fifth visit to the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Her photographs of the Outer Banks are beautiful.

The panarama on top was awesome. You could see across Currituck Sound to the Mainland and out over the Atlantic Ocean some 18 miles. The Currituck Beach Lighthouse Station, which includes numerous other restored buildings, is located in a park with a excellent view of the Currituck Sound. The Center for Wildlife Education and the historic Whalehead Club are also here. The Sound is the largest body of brackish water in the area with an average depth of 5 feet, pretty shallow. If you are a person who fishes, there are some species of salt water as well as fresh in the Sound. At one time it had a huge population of large mouth bass. In the park there are placards placed in strategic locations that tell the whole history and facts of interest, including why the lunker bass have disappeared. Be sure to visit the park at sunset for some pretty panaramas.

I could write alot more about my 9 day visit to Corolla and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but you just have to check it out for yourself. It is worth a visit, and bring the family along too. If you are a golfer looking for incredible golf, take on the Currituck Club challenge, I did and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a breezy day to say the least, with 35-40 mph wind gusts. If you would like to learn more about what happened to the Rodanthe house read this article. If you would like to learn more about Corolla and attractions, check out the Corolla Guide. Hotels in Corolla, Hampton Inn. Vacation home rentals information, click vacation rentals.

The Coastal Carolina Fair Is Near-Family Fun Time

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:51:00 +0000

Time sure passes by quickly, especially when you are having fun, as the saying goes. And it's already that time of the season for the 55th edition of the Coastal Carolina Fair at the Exchange Park in Ladson, October 27th thru November 5th to be exact. There is plenty for everybody to do to pass the time quickly at this years fair, if you are a fair goer because not everyone is. Plenty of the three reasons why people go to the fair- food, rides, and entertainment. Sorry beer lovers, one thing there won't be plenty of is beer. It is a nonalcoholic fair, but you don't need beer to have fun. This is a family-oriented event.

Personally, the best time to attend is at night, after the sun sets. The lights are brighter, the sounds are louder, the smells more intense. The thick smoke and various aromas from the line of vendors encircling the inner perimeters like a wagon train under attack, hangs in the air as an advertisement of their offerings. The choreographed flashing lights of the numerous carnival rides hynotize are young ones, drawing them into its control. The music and song from the scheduled entertainment more easily drifts through cooler night air. In turn, all of this aforementioned activity causes those in attendance to happily empty their pockets of their hard earned money. And not to be forgotten, an explosive mixture of nightly fireworks displays are scheduled.

When it comes to the food there will be everything from peanut butter and jelly to oriental and Italian food. Ah, the simple pleasure of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, a brown bag favorite and now at the fair. Gyros, the "g" is silent, is what alot of people go to the fair to consume along with elephant ears, corn dogs, and cheese and nauchos.

The ferris wheel is a landmark of the fair and stands out prominantly as you approach the fairgrounds. Aside from the ferris wheel, this year's fair will have 64 ride attractions. Some new ones like the Spin Out along with popular favorites like The Fire Ball and Mega Drop. There will also by nearly 30 kids rides. Carnival Ride Tickets (20 Coupon Book) $17.00 up to October 26 and $20.00 October 27 at the gate-11.25 up to October 26 and 13.25 books October 27-at Piggly Wiggly only. Handstamp Ticket (Ride all day) 17.00 up to october 26 and $20.00 october 27 at the gate-11.25 up to October 26 and 13.25 October 27 at Piggly Wiggly only.

The 2011 Coast Carolina fair will feature a variety of musical entertainment including American Idol runner-up Crystal Bowersox, country singer Easton Corbon and The Guess Who. Other entertainment will include impressionist Rich Little, and show featuring live brown bears. For a complete list and times click scheduled entertainment. For ticket information click admission tickets.

Daniel Island Welcomes The Zac Brown Band For Three Days Of Festivities

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 01:50:00 +0000

Daniel Island, a 4,000 acre island, is located within 15 miles of Downtown Charleston between the Cooper and Wando Rivers. The recently developed island, starting in the 1990's, was once used for farming, cattle ranching, and a private hunting retreat. The developement of I-526 changed all that. Daniel Island now offers residents access to hundreds of acres of parks, 23 miles of rivers and creeks and more than 12 miles of leisure trails.

It has been called a “pedestrian-friendly island town located within historic Charleston,” recognized as One of America’s 100 Best Master-Planned Communities by Where to Retire, and a recipient of the Urban Land Institute’s prestigious “Awards for Excellence”. There are two professional sports facilities, the Family Circle Tennis Center and Blackbaud Stadium, located on the island, along with a private country club, the Daniel Island Club, with golf courses by Tom Fazio and Rees Jones. The island’s downtown is a popular address for a growing array of schools, churches, shops, restaurants, medical offices and other conveniences, as well as a destination for area festivals and special events.

The Southern Ground Music and Food Festival is one of those events hosted at Blackbaud Stadium you will want to seriously consider attending. The three-day event will feature several well-known artists from different genres, including country star Eric Church, rock/pop band Train, and rock group My Morning Jacket, among others. The main attraction all three days, October 21-23, will be the Zac Brown Band.

Along with the music you will be able to sample some local cuisine. The festival will provide high quality concessions with a variety of different local Charleston Vendors. Zac Brown Band Executive Chef Rusty Hamlin will also be serving up items featuring Zac and Rusty’s signature recipes. Click here for ticket information. Click here for travel packages. Click here to preview the lineup for all three days.

So, the temperatures have cooled and the humidity has faded, but the action is just beginning and there is plenty to do in Charleston in the weeks to come. Let's do it.

Charleston's Fall Events And Activities-Ramping Up

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 04:14:00 +0000

It's fall in Charleston, although it doesn't feel like it when you factor in the high humidity we have been experiencing these past few days, but it is what it is and it is Charleston weather. Despite summer 2011 having wound itself down and bid us farewell, the activities in Charleston are just beginning to ramp up. Of course, it is still warm enough to catch a few more rays and a few more waves on the beaches, if that is what you want to do, but there are plenty of events scheduled September thru December to keep you and your family happily occupied.

The Fall Tours of Home and Gardens is already underway. It started September 21 and will last to October 22. This is a Top 20 Event as selected by the Southeast Tourism Society. Tours are scheduled Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday only. This is where owners open up their homes and private gardens to the public for them to enjoy the rich history of Charleston and experience the distinctive architecture built into their historic residences from the Georgian period to the 21st century.

The Moja Festival will take place September 29 to October 9. This is another Top 20 Event. The festival is a celebration of African-American and Caribbean arts. MOJA is a Swahili word meaning "One" and is representative of the Lowcountry where these cultures have been fused into the Charleston culture. Nearly half of MOJA's events are admission-free and the remainder are offered at very modest ticket prices, ranging from $5 - $20. The wide range of events include visual arts, classical music, dance, gospel concert, jazz concert, poetry, R&B concert, storytelling, theatre, children's activities, traditional crafts, ethnic food, and much, much more. One notable event is the Reggae Block Dance. Friday, September 30, 2011 from 6:30-11:00pm at Brittlebank Park, Lockwood Blvd. & Fishburne St. Admission free.

"Ghosts and Pirates OH MY!" is an obvious choice if you are looking for fun and excitement for you or the whole family. It is hosted by Thriller Charleston, a bright yellow power catamaran. You will be introduced to the spooky side of Charleston from the historic front door of the Holy City-beautiful Charleston Harbor. Classic tales of haunted places and infamous battles and the notorious people who were a part of it. This event is scheduled throughout October only, 3pm, Thursdays and Saturdays only and tickets are $35/adult, $25/children 3 – 12, children 1 – 2 are free.

Taste of Charleston will take place October 8, 9 at Boone Hall Plantation, Mt. Pleasant, SC. This celebration of Lowcountry cuisine will feature more than 40 of Charleston’s top casual and fine dining restaurants serving sample size portions of their signature dishes plus beer and wine. There will be live entertainment from Homemade Wine, the legendary Waiters’ Race, Children’s Area and Beer Garden featuring 40 or more craft and specialty beers. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the gate and are good for admission only. Children 10 and under are free.

This just a sampling. There is much more to come. Get out and enjoy your Charleston.

Charleston Restaurant Week-Celebrate Eating

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 04:26:00 +0000

I was checking out what is considered the top ten activities people love to do and the results totally surprised me. There was one activity missing I thought should have easily been included hands down and considered number one. This was the list: Sleeping, listening to music, reading, watching a movie, playing, gossiping, arranging their home, visiting old friends, shopping, and idling. At this point, it must be acknowledged this list is subjective and depends on who you talk to, but these were the most common responses.

This huge faux pas is just eating me up. As you scan that list, do you see what's missing? It is an activity most likely incorporated in some way, shape, or form either before, during, or after stated activities. In fact, you may be engaging in that activity presently, at this very moment, while you are on the computer, and I must point out, I am doing it as I write this article. This huge oversight is just all too consuming. Are you now digesting my references as to what I am all stirred up about? Everyone does it and everyone loves it. The overlooked, most popular activity is eating.

Which brings me to the subject of this article. Places where people go to enjoy this activity, restaurants. And not just any restaurant, but the top ten in the world according to the Michelin Guide, and that doesn't have anything to do with tires. You may already had the privelege of dining at one of these establishments or maybe you would like to consider it. I am only going to briefly talk about the first four.

Number one is a two Michelin star restaurant in Copenhagen, Denmark called Noma run by Chef René Redzepi. He is noted for his work for the reinvention and refinement of a new Nordic cuisine and food that is characterized by inventiveness and clean flavors, which leads to an emotive, intense, liberating way of eating, unlike any other. Put simply in layman's terms, food visually stunning that makes your mouth water profusely and your taste buds dance. Number two is El Celler De Can Roca in Girona, Catalonia Spain. Founded in 1986 by the three Roca brothers, Joan Roca is the head chef. They have created some dishes and desserts based on famous perfumes. So, no matter how much the temptation may be, try to avoid smearing it on your body.

Number three is Mugaritz in Errenteria, Spain. Chef Andoni Aduriz uses the term "techno-emotional cuisine" or "culinary physics", as some like to refer to it, to describe applying science to his way of cooking. "Culinary physics" is the study of how ingredients are changed by different cooking methods and the unconventional innovation in its preparation and presentation. Now that is a mouth full. Number four is Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy run by Chef Massimo Bottura. His kitchen offers a menu of traditional food alongside more left-field creations inspired by the art world. After leaving his establishment you will see the Mona Lisa in a different way. The rest of top ten are The Fat Duck in UK, Alinea in Chicago, D.O.M. in Brazil, Arzak in Spain, Le Chateaubriand in France, and Per Se in New York.

So, go out and celebrate eating. It is Restaurant Week. Charleston Restaurant Week is an opportunity for diners to take advantage of special discounted menus, a price fixed menu of three items for either $20, $30 or $40, from Charleston area restaurants. All your favorite places to eat in Charleston are participating. Click on restaurant for a complete list. The event runs from September 7 to 18.

Travel Traditions And Legends Abroad And Here In Charleston

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:07:00 +0000

Would you like to have the ability to deceive without offending? If you do, this ability can be acquired by simply kissing a stone, but not just any stone, a particularly popular stone, and simply is an understatement when it comes to the dangers involved in doing so. If you are a resident of the Lowcountry, you will have to travel over 3700 miles to do this. The place is Cork, Ireland where Blarney Castle is located and the infamous stone is the Blarney Stone. People from all over the world descend upon this castle to kiss the stone built high into its battlements. Of course, all of this supposed ability obtained by caressing a stone with ones lips is in itself nothing but a bunch of blarney, so to speak.

Still, visitors to this castle brave the dangers involved in this practice. To touch the stone with one's lips, you must ascend to the castle's peak, then lean over backwards on the parapet's edge to reach the bluestone. Presently, bars you can grasp have been installed to make it safer, but before safeguards were installed, the kiss was performed with real risk to your life, as participants were held by the ankles and dangled bodily from the height. Another sobering thought is the idea of putting your lips on something millions of other people have planted their lips on. The question to ponder over is did all past participants brush their teeth and goggle with mouthwash before performing the ritual?

This is just one of many practices or traditions travelers engage in for fun. Another famous allegory involves the practice of throwing coins into Trevi Fountain in Rome. The traditional legend says if a person throws a coin into the fountain, they will return to Rome, throw two and you will experience new romance, a third and you will get married. I guess for some, the idea would be knowing when to stop. Charleston has a fountain of its own located in Waterfront Park called Pineapple Fountain, which represents the welcoming hospitality for which Charleston is so well known, but I don't know of any practice of throwing coins into it, and to take it a step further, I don't know of any practice of kissing any stones either. However, I have become aware of one tradition in Charleston, if that is what you want to call it.

The place is the Vendue Inn and the custom is writing a letter and sticking it into one of the bedposts in the room you stayed at. I first heard of this while sitting at the pool in my neighborhood, talking to a lady whose daughter was staying at the Vendue Inn. The Vendue Inn is a downtown Charleston hotel located right in the heart of the French Quarter of the Historic District not far from the Battery and Waterfront Park. The Vendue is a small boutique hotel with wrought iron beds, exposed brick walls, and Egyptian cotton sheets, to name just a few of its unique features. It is host to a popular rooftop bar that overlooks Charleston Harbor, which is a local hot spot in the evenings. There is live music six nights a week with no cover charge. Hotel specials and packages are available including a "Charleston Romance Package" and a "Hysterical History Package".

So, make your mark in history. Stay at the Vendue Inn and write a letter to stick in the bedpost for future occupants to read, but try not to get too personal or descriptive. If you know of any other customs or practices unique to Charleston, I would like to hear about them. Send me an email describing it.

Hurricane Irene Will Be Kicking Up The Surf on The Shores Of Folly Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:08:00 +0000

All eyes are on Hurricane Irene as she makes her slow trek toward the East Coast of the USA. When and where Irene makes her turn is crucial as to where she may be headed. The predictions have been fast and furious and the scenarios changing everyday. The latest prediction, as I write this article, puts landfall in North Carolina near the Outer Banks, taking Charleston out of the dnager zone. This would be good news for the surfing crowd, particularly the most hardy of the group, who are always looking to the next big wave. Hurricane Irene's presence offshore will make Folly Beach their focus of attention.

Folly Beach, referred to by locals as the "Edge of America, is Charleston's premier beach for surfing. The most popular spot on Folly Beach for surfing is an area called the Washout, where the biggest waves are to be found. In fact, experienced East Coast surfers tend to agree that the Washout is one of the top 30 surf spots on the East Coast. Another popular spot is near the Folly Beach Pier.

The beach on Folly is six miles long and easily accessed anywhere on the island. The most beautiful area of "untouched" beach is at the Folly Beach County Park at the west end of Folly. There is plenty of parking, a snack bar, retail area, and all the necessary amenities needed for a day at the beach. From the park, you can walk to the end of the island where the waters rush in and out of the channel with tremendous force at the beginning and end of high tide. Often, you are able to watch dolphins riding the fast moving currents. Center Street Beach is located on both sides of the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. In season, this is always a very busy beach. Here you can rent jet skis and boogie boards, purchase food and beverages from the Holiday Inn's Tiki Bar and restaurant or the Starfish Grille on the Pier, take a walk on the Folly Pier or watch the surfers.

If you looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of beach homes with the best of everything for a comfortable stay and cozy cottages with a more simple touch located up and down the island. Charleston's only full-service oceanfront hotel, Tides of Folly Beach, is a newly renovated hotel located right on the beach. The hotel has 132 ocean front rooms with private balcony overlooking the ocean. It is also host to the BLU restaurant with oceanfront dining. What will it be? The choice is yours to make. There are many other places to dine and some have entertainment scheduled throughout the week.

Just a final side note. Where did Folly get its name? It doesn't have anything to do with an act or instance of foolishness. Folly comes from an old English word meaning clump of trees or thicket.

There Is Still Alot Of Summer To Enjoy In Charleston And Its Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Sun, 21 Aug 2011 02:52:00 +0000

School is in, but the beaches are still hot. I spent Friday afternoon on the Isle of Palms near Coconut Joe's taking pictures. The beach was lined with sunbathers as far as you could see. The beach houses appeared to be occupied. There were some decent waves breaking offshore for the surfers, and tide was up, so skimboarders were taking advantage of the surf along the shoreline, skimming the waves as they rolled on shore.

Although, Folly beach is the better choice when it comes to surfing, the Isle of Palms offers the beachgoer alot of sand and a shoreline for swimming, particularly when the tide is up. This days crowd mainly consisted of older teens and adults soaking in the afternoons hot sun with a few throwing the football around. As I perused the beach for some good photos, I zeroed in on three skimboarders near the pier, Lizzy, Simone, and Matt, who were willing to show me what they could do with their boards. Simone, who appeared to be the more skilled of the three, executed a near perfect 360. Then, upon request from me, the three of them attempted to jump a wave at the same time, of which I was able to get a good shot of the result. Good execution and form by Lizzy and Simone, but it was Matt who stoled the show.

Isle of Palms is a seven mile long island with approximately six miles of beach access for residents and visitors throughout the island. Isle of Palms County Park, located at the center of the island as you get off the connector, offers beautiful ocean frontage with lifeguards on duty seasonally along a beachfront designated swimming area. Parasailing and wave runners are available for the more adventurous beach goers to rent. For those who would like to explore the intercoastal waters, kayaks are just the ticket and available for rent at the marina. The IOP Marina is also where you can charter both offshore and inshore fishing trips as well as eco tours of nearby uninhabited islands.

Isle of Palms is also home to the Wild Dunes Resort that occupies 1,500 acres on the northern end of the island and offers residents and visitors two 18 hole Tom Fazio golf courses, 17 har tru tennis courts, and numerous pools. Wild Dunes has many private residences as well as condominiums often rented on the vacation rental market. Other options available are the many colorful beach houses with waterfront views for friends and family to relax in and enjoy the sand and surf.

For entertainment, the Windjammer is a popular hot spot on the beach offering good food and live music with a view. Three suggestions that top the restaurant list are the Boathouse at Breech Inlet where you can enjoy sunset and a drink on its rooftop bar before seafood dinner, Long Island Cafe on IOP, and Poe's Tavern on Sullivan's Island, famed for its burgers and casual party atmosphere.

What Goes Together?-Hootie and the Blowfish Return To Charleston

noreply@blogger.com (Vacation Rick) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 02:18:00 +0000

"Love and marriage, love and marriage, go together like a horse and carriage." These famous lyrics are from a song written by Sammy Cahn and music by Jimmy Van Heusen. Not many today would remember those names. Later, the song was introduced by Frank Sinatra in the 1955 television production of Thornton Wilder's "Our Town" that aired on Producers' Showcase and recorded by Capital Records. Now, Sinatra is a name many no doubt still remember. The lyrics were also chosen as the theme song for the sitcom "Married with Children". The lyrics play on the idea that some things are just made for each other or to put it another way, go hand-in-hand. Although, the couple in "Married with Children" defied that simple logic.

There is an endless list of things you can think of that go together and they don't have to be just inanimate objects. Peanut butter and jelly, peas and carrots, salt and pepper, rum and coke, Jack and Jill, Rhett and Scarlett, Bogey and Bacall, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, stock market and bankruptcy(thought I would just non-chalantly sneek this one in), and we get the picture. You probably could come up with many, many more of your own than this quick list. This can also apply to places, like New York and Broadway, Seattle and Pike Place Market, Orlando and Disney, LA and Kodak Theatre, San Francisco and Golden Gate, and Rainbow Row and Charleston.

Well, there are many things I can think of that go with Charleston, and one of them is Hootie and the Blowfish with lead singer Darius Rucker. Hootie and the Blowfish formed in 1986 when the quartet met when they were freshmen at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. There origin may not have been Charleston, but Rucker is home grown Charleston talent. They will be in Charleston this weekend for the "Hootie and the Blowfish Homegrown Weekend" event at the Family Circle Stadium.

This will be their ninth anniversary at Family Circle Stadium and come together for a two-night musical engagement kicking off Friday, August 12th. The opening act will be Toad the Wet Sprocket. Don't know who Toad the Wet Sprocket is? They are an American alternative rock band that formed in 1986. Then Saturday, August 13 beginning at 2 PM, Ken Block and Andrew Copeland of Sister Hazel as well as other national and regional acts (TBD) will be featured. Hootie and the Blowfish will wrap up the festival with a performance Saturday night at 7 pm. Ticket information and times.