James & John's Islands, SC

Is James Island Becoming the New West Ashley?

January 2, 2017

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

It is often said that a dog owner over time begins to take on the attributes and look of its furry companion. This analogy may hold true for James Island, SC. Once the gateway to the natural wonders of Johns Island and Folly Beach, is now taking on a facelift right before our eyes.

Just a bridge away from downtown Charleston, beautiful Windermere area of West Ashley and Johns Island, James Island is a hub for the beauty of the coast. While it has struggled to find its own identity, James Island is still a resourceful community based town that took pride in family and local commerce, tradition, sports and education.

Like most of Charleston county, times are evolving and changes are happening that some see as progress while others see as a loss of identity.

One very distinct commonality between West Ashley and James Island remains: Struggle to differentiate from Charleston and find its own sense of identity.

Black Diamond Group Development of new structure for Walgreens relocation

Signs of the changing landscape of James Island:

O2 Fitness will be joining the Folly Road retail strip along with Gold’s Gym – Two known chain fitness corporations.
PetSmart will be opening in the BiLo plaza in 2017.
There are now 3 Harris Teeters within seven miles on the same road.
Camp and Folly Road Improvement Project
Rite-Aid, CVS and Walgreens are within 3 miles of each other
Folly Road offers a bike lane, but it is still in a high risk, high traffic area
Traffic issues on Folly Road have gotten worse pouring overflow into HarborView, Riverland and Maybank
Within 3 miles are three fast food chain pizza companies: Marcos, Dominos and Little Caesar’s
The Roller Risk on Folly Road that created so many childhood memories is now gone.
There are 7 automotive parts and/or repair shops with a 4-mile radius.
Chik-fil-a, Publix, Sonic, Huddle House, IHOP, Lowe’s, Wal-Mart, Arby’s, TCBY, Dollar Tree, Wendy’s, McDonald’s and Tuesday Morning contribute to the corporate logos high above the roadways.
Badd Kitty was welcomed in 2016 to James Island
New housing developments in the works or completed on Fort Johnson, Folly Road and Maybank Highway.
Farmer’s Market moved from a neighborhood park to the back lot of The Pour House

These are a few of the changes happening on James Island right before our eyes. Soon, this small town, with its own unique identity only a stone throw away from Charleston, Folly and Johns Island, will become a corporate suburb.

Do not be surprised if the rise of hotels soon becomes the new skyline of James Island and tourists adopt this area as their vacation starting point.

James & John's Islands, SC - Lowcountry

The Folly Road Conundrum

November 9, 2016

by Charleston Daily 6 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

For those on the path of Folly Road (You know who you are fellow James Islanders, Folly Beach residents, West Ashley and peninsula dwellers), the idea of Folly Road during beach season is a thought we try very hard to avoid. At times, the road more closely resembles a parking lot than a roadway. Yet, in the last three years a transition has occurred and one that has shaken up the locals.

With the increased housing development of James Island and John’s Island, traffic has gone from seasonal to all year long. Here is what has been happening because of the increased traffic pressure:

The light at the corner of the James Island Connector and Folly Road can back cars up as much as seven plus lights on the connector during peak beach season and daily rush hour. This is causing some drivers to make a right onto Folly and doing an illegal U-Turn in the middle of the road.
The light at Folly Road and Ellis is causing a three or four light backup to turn left due to Lowe’s, IHOP, Wells Fargo and the Peninsula Condominiums. Some are turning right into Harris Teeter and then pulling an illegal U-Turn to take the light across Folly Road.
The construction on the approval circle at the intersection of Camp and Folly is causing nightly delays.
The increased traffic is hurting the roadway infrastructure resulting in more untreated potholes.
Traffic on parallel road, Riverland Avenue is seeing increased pressure and volume.
Businesses are suffering due to the increased challenges of making turns on Folly Road.
Within 3 miles, there are 10 bars and 6 restaurants with full liquor licenses. This easy accessibility to alcohol coupled with careless driving to avoid parking lot type conditions has increased the number of Folly Road related accidents. Without the budget to increase the police presence, this trend may continue.

Now, we need to look at future state. We estimate that there will be 4.5 to 4.9 million tourists in Charleston in 2016. Hotel development is at an unstoppable period of expansion. That is a fact.

Now let us think like a tourist. When we look for hotels, we look at mile proximity to our destination. Folly Road on James Island sits at 3 – 10 miles from downtown Charleston and 0 – 10 miles from Folly Beach.

When does the hotel development begin? It is a realistic future state that we cannot ignore. Is the new Camp and Folly round about (circle) a way to alleviate the traffic issues, or a preliminary requirement to pave the way for hotel development? We are not here to speculate or assume anything. This is a trend that has been developing for several years and thus we cannot ignore a probability of future hospitality on Folly Road.

How do we work to rectify this Folly Road conundrum?

Improve the timing of the lights to provide more time for turn lanes.
Improve the bike lane situation to give more safe options for alternative transportation.
Ensure hotel development is held back.
Minimize new housing development moving forward
Closer monitoring of key spots on Folly Road to deter illegal driving behavior.

Will this solve everything? Most likely not, but these few necessary steps can ensure the safety of our citizens and provide a better quality of life on Folly Road and surrounding areas.

James & John's Islands, SC - Photography

Images of the Lowcountry – Charleston Tour in Pictures

October 10, 2016

by Charleston Daily 8 Comments

St. Michael's Church — St. Michael’s Church

By Mark A. Leon

Are you ready to be in awe over the simplistic elegant beauty of the Lowcountry? A place so rich in tradition, history and natural wonder that people keep coming back to take in this breathless tranquility. For many it is home; for others a wonderful escape, but whatever your reason, it is a place of solace.

This utopia captures magic in every still with timeless color and symmetry. Each picture tells a story; each step an adventure, each gaze a feeling of security.

Charleston is a special place that has captured the love of millions and continues to inspire.

Take a journey with us through the Lowcountry and experience the sparkle that is Charleston.

US Custom House - Evening — US Custom House – Evening

John's Island Sunset — John’s Island Sunset

Cistern Yard - College of Charleston — Cistern Yard – College of Charleston

The Battery - Sunrise — The Battery – Sunrise

I don’t know about you, but that just put me in a better place.

Food & Bev - James & John's Islands, SC - Lifestyle - Mount Pleasant, SC

Charleston, SC vs. New York, NY – Are We Really That Different?

September 24, 2016

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

I spent most of my youth and young adult life just outside of New York City or “The City” as we knew it. I worked there and gathered a number of memorable stories over the years. Now I call Charleston home for a good part of the last eight years. To most, the differences between Charleston and New York are very simple. New York bore itself into an industrial haven of opportunity, prosperity, diversity and financial strength. From intellectuals to capitalists, NY has defined itself in fashion, finance, architecture, arts and small business opportunity. It is the land of opportunity with the Statue of Liberty as the cornerstone of entrance.

Charleston took a different path. Its foundations were laid on the principles of farming, historic preservation, hospitality and small intimate community with generations of wealthy land owners donning the streets and buildings of this quiet city of cobblestone roads and church steeples.

Times are now changing. New York continues to reinvent itself in a slow mature sustainable manner. Charleston, on the other hand, is converting to what some are calling the East Coast Silicon Valley, homes and hotels are the forefront of development, the culinary arts have taken on a life of their own and growth has hit record numbers.

Two weeks ago, Bill Murray was a guest bartender in Brooklyn, NY. For those that remember, Bill Murray made his start on the humble streets of New York along with Belushi, Curtain, Aykroyd, Murphy, Sandler and more. After each live performance the cast would go to a small club in the West Village. The club is still there with Christmas lights around the entrance situated on an unassuming street block. That club still stands as well as the reminder that New York and Charleston both stand for acceptance and love, but show it in different ways.

Now that these two cities are moving in different directions, are they all that different? Let’s take a look

Hospitality – Charleston is known for friendliness and hospitality. Saying hello to strangers and neighbors is a way of life. Servers not only take your order, but converse and get to know you. It is a happy and humble culture. In New York, pedestrians are glued to their headsets, eye contact is few and far between, cashiers rush you through the line and horns honk like a symphony. Maybe we have to look deeper to understand. I was in a small stationary store purchasing postcards. When I walked to the counter, the shop owner stopped what he was doing and took my money. He was quiet, but polite and very courteous. He didn’t smile or try to get to know me, but he showed all the respect I needed with excellent customer service. Sometimes a perception and a reality are very different.

Deep Roots of Acceptance – The country and world stood proud as Charleston retaliated from the devastating events at Mother Emmanuel with a show of solidarity and non-violent measures. Even today, in the wake of Charlotte, NC, comparisons are being made to Charleston’s peaceful approach. As I walked through the campus of NYU and sat on the grass in Washington Square Park, I was surrounded by diversity and individualism. Homeless playing chess with students, acrobatics and yoga, musicians playing Jazz, diverse couples laying on the grass and an overall feeling of unification. New York is a melting pot and one that has found a place of balance and unity. Later that afternoon, I stumbled on a pick-up basketball game. As the players cursed over fouls, businessmen looked on and enjoyed the free entertainment. No matter what the score was at the end, all the players exchanged hugs and handshakes.

Festivals – Charleston is a festival haven. We thrive, unite and rejoice in our festivals. New York does as well. The difference is that New York is so expansive, it is difficult to find them as easily as our small community. The 92^nd Street Festival extends 16 blocks on Lexington Avenue on the Upper East Side, while at the same time the famed San Gennaro Italian Festival is filled with song, dance and food on Mulberry Street in Little Italy over four miles away. Though the set up and themes may differ, the common front of community and celebration remains.

Natural esthetics – We are not here to compare acres or quality of natural land between Charleston and New York. The land allocation will not allow for apples to apples comparison. New York and Charleston both embrace the need to recharge and public parks both are a vital part of the make-up of each region. Whether it is Marion Square or Central Park, the need to grass and flowers in the center of concrete jungles is critical to life balance.

Bridges – We are both proud to say we have some of the most iconic bridges in the United States. Between the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge and George Washington, these two port cities have something very special to be proud of.

Staying Connected – Offering WIFI in the public spaces is one area that Charleston has taken the lead. Offering free WIFI in the county parks is an innovative way to get the community to be outdoors and give back. New York offers patches of free WIFI including Washington Square Park, but they are not quite there for the entire parks system.

Embracing History – Both New York and Charleston offer rich experiences including carriage rides and historic tours. This country would not exist today if not for the brave settlers that took a tremendous risk for an unknown. Through their courage, we have established a foundation of freedom. Both the North and South along the Eastern seaboard played and continue to play a critical role in maintaining these freedoms and remembering how we got here.

Food – This debate can go on for hours and hours. Who has more Michelin restaurants, who has more quality chefs, how has more eclectic food offerings? Who offers the most unique dining experience? There is no reason to dive into this black hole, because there is no winner. We retract. The true winners are the guests who have embraced both cities for its culinary achievements.

Mass Transit – The edge must go to our friends in the North. New York, though there is no time of day where there isn’t traffic, has created an above and below ground mass transit system that others around the world have emulated. We can get there Charleston and we need to.

Affordability of Entrance – We are fortunate in Charleston to have no tolls. Very fortunate. Whether you travel between New Jersey and New York, Staten Island and New York, Long Island to New York through the Midtown tunnel, you will be paying between $8.00 – $16.00 to enter and in some cases leave Manhattan. It is costly and we should be thankful we are not at that point.

Theater – Charleston has created a proud family of live performance art from Threshold to Charleston Stage, Footlight to Woolfe Street. I have witnessed some of the most amazing theater I have ever seen. The quality of acting in this area is overwhelming. That message needs to get out more. Patrons and community members need to know the quality of the arts here in Charleston. The redesign of the Gaillard is a strong stepping stone in the right direction. New York is Broadway and Broadway is world class live performance art. We have potential to achieve.

Family – Believe it or not, I think this may be one of the strongest connections these two areas have. New York and Charleston embrace family. We have beautiful suburban communities in Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, Summerville, James Island, Daniel Island and John’s Island. New York has Long Island and Staten Island. Charleston peninsula is growing into a metro haven with a focus on safety. Whether parents and children play in the park or run on the concrete streets, family is still a foundation of values and comfort. This is one thing we should both be very proud of.

Beaches – Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, Folly Beach – Our three coastal salvations. Long Island Sound and Rockaway Beach. Are ours easier to get to? Yes (though some may argue Folly Road and IOP Connector can be nightmares). Do we offer more beachfront? Yes. Still, beaches are a big part of the culture of both. Plus, New Yorkers can go to the Jersey shore and gamble in Atlantic City.

Day Trips – In this case, Charleston is a victim of land distribution. We have opportunities to go to Beaufort, Santee, Columbia, Savannah and Myrtle Beach, but the proximity of available day trips is limited in comparison to New York. The tight land formations of the New England and Mid-Atlantic states allow for daytrips to Boston, Providence, Mystic, CT, Hamptons, Jersey Shore, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Kilington, VT and so much more.

There are fourteen comparisons between New York and Charleston; two cities built around different cultures and early country development moral and political values. Today, those separation points are a little more blurred and it turns out we have more in common than we thought.

NY2

James & John's Islands, SC - Mount Pleasant, SC

Tale of Two Cities: Mount Pleasant vs. James Island, SC

September 4, 2016

by Charleston Daily 9 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

Between historic Charleston lies two very distinct communities, each defined by its own unique culture, attitude and neighborhood aesthetics. How can two towns just miles apart have such a distinct difference in personality? Let us dissect the differences and similarities and thus allow you to draw your own conclusions.

This piece was inspired by two recent social outings, one on Thursday evening in Mount Pleasant at Basil and Sol and the second on John’s Island at JB’s Smokeshack. While enjoying a quiet lunch and writing a letter at JB’s, I met Chuck, a lifelong resident of this area who grew up hunting on the farms that are now defined by the intersection of Highway 17 and 526. It was this conversation and my food and beverage interaction in Mount Pleasant that drove the need to write this article.

Let us dig right in and look at the true differences between Mount Pleasant and James Island

Dining Prices – There is a definable difference between dining in Mount Pleasant and dining on James Island. At Sol, two tacos and a 16-ounce craft beer will run you $18.00, with $2.21 in tax and $4.00+ in tip = $24.21. On Wednesday at Lowdown Kitchen, a 10-inch specialty pizza and glass of house red wine will run you $9.00, with $1.15 in tax and $3.00 in tip = $13.15. At Paisano’s on Tuesday, you can get a calzone with two meats and two veggies for $6.00 plus tax. At White Duck Taco, a taco will run between $3.50 and $4.50 and for Happy Hour, a Tecate is $1.00. A bowl of she-crab soup at Roadside Seafood is $.6.00. We aren’t going to go through all menus at all dining establishments, but on average, there is a dining disparity.

Original Music – On any given night in Mount Pleasant from Shem Creek to Arts to Wild Wings, live music is abundant and so is the chance of hearing Wagon Wheel. The music is heavily dominant on cover songs. That is what the customers want to hear. There is no doubting the musical eye of the Charleston Pour House on James Island and their ability to find the most amazing original music acts in the Southeast and around the country so we give this category to James Island.

Brand Awareness – James Island is defined by a unique culture of small and family owned business. As you drive through you, will see a Sonic, Walmart, AutoZone and Waffle House. Not much else in terms of chain retail and dining. Mount Pleasant is a whole other story. TJ Maxx, Lane Bryant, Kohl’s, Michael’s, Nordstrom’s Rack, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Bed Bath and Beyond, Gap, Old Navy and the list goes on. Very brand focused.

Coffee Houses – This one is very close. Mount Pleasant has Collective Coffee and Metto, two incredible coffee shops. James Island has Muddy Waters
Old Pitt Street Bridge

and How Art Thou. We are going to give this one a tie.

Beaches – Another close one. Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island vs. Folly Beach. This debate can go on and on. In terms of accessibility, great dining, fun playful environment, we will also give this a tie.

Trivia – Once again we are at a stalemate. Locals and Wild Wings are among the local establishments with live trivia in Mount Pleasant. The Break and O’Brion’s are popular sites on James Island. Tie.

Dog Friendly – The Barrel, James Island County Park, Sip, How Art Thou, James Island Sunday Brunch, The Charleston Pour House, Bohemian Bull; all speak volumes on how dog friendly James Island is. Dogs are considered residents in these parts. We know The Shelter does a lot with Pet Helpers and we admire that. Overall, Mount Pleasant is a little behind on the support of pups and dining.

Attitude – This one may come under some scrutiny, but we stand behind it. James Island is the Jimmy Buffett of the Charleston area communities. No matter where you go, we greet you with a smile. If you are drinking or dining alone, don’t expect to be too long. There is a genuine friendliness that is infectious on the Island. Mount Pleasant is a bit more stand-offish and not as inviting of strangers.

Natural Scenery – Mount Pleasant has Old Pitt Street Bridge, Old Mount Pleasant and Shem Creek. All beautiful open areas of natural wonder. James Island has Riverland Drive, James Island County Park, Dock Street Park, Mcleod Plantation, Harborview Road, Intercoastal Waterway, Sunrise Park, and Scenic Fort Johnson Road. James Island is still untapped with its ample marsh, wooded areas and parks area and thus gets the victory lap in this category.

Traffic – I think we can comfortably call Folly Road and Highway 17 almost a dead heat.

Organic Food – Mount Pleasant wins by one – Whole Foods vs. Earthfare in a tug of war, but with Mount Pleasant having Trader Joe’s on its side, it has more muscle. With both having respective farmer’s markets, we have to give this one to Mount Pleasant.

Hippie Lifestyle – We have to give the edge to James Island. Mount Pleasant is a stone throw from Awendaw Green Barn Jam, but with the Brickhouse Drum Circle, Folly Beach (recently voted the Most Hippie City in South Carolina) and the Charleston Pour House, we have to give the victory to James Island.

There we have it, the differences and similarities between James Island and Mount Pleasant. If we missed any categories, please comment below.

James & John's Islands, SC

Charleston Performing Arts Center to Revive “Dream Girls, The Revue”

July 22, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Charleston Performing Arts Center to Revive “Dream Girls, The Revue”

Charleston’s only cabaret-style theatre located at 873 Folly Road, James Island will revive its sell-out hit “Dream Girls, The Revue.” The original production opened their 2015-2016 season and was so popular it has been brought back to be the season closer.

This original dance musical pays tribute to the girl groups of the 1960s. From Motown to the dowop craze, our Broadway-caliber vocalists will sing hits like “I Met Him on A Sunday,” “Lollipop,” “Please Mr. Postman,” “My Boyfriend’s Back,” and “Leader of the Pack.” You’ll hear the hits from teenage girl group pioneers The Bobettes, The Chantels and The Poquelos. The craze continues with The Marvelettes, Martha and the Vadellas, The Chiffons, and more. The evening culminates with the sound and style maturing into the “dream girls” we all love: The Supremes.

The show stars visiting artists Lisa Lauren Smith, who hails from the city that created the Motown sound, Detroit. Lisa is a performer and solo recording artist who has released her debut album “Rock Steady”. She has graced stages across the nation, including Detroit, Chicago, Cleveland, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas; and is an alumnus of The Lee Strasberg Theater Institute. Career highlights include a featured role as Ella Fitzgerald (alongside Broadway tap dancer Ted Louis Levy) in One More Rhythm; and as Billie Holiday in Queen Of The Blues. TV credits include: Chicago PD; BET Sitcom Lets Stay Together. Film credits: Street Kings 2, Family Weekend, starring Kristen Chenoweth.

Returning to reprise her role that brought audiences to their feet is Broadway veteran, and Gospel recording artist, Deidra Brooks. Most notably, she appeared as Shug Avery (u/s) in the original Broadway production of The Color Purple. Other performances include BJ in Smokey Joes Cafe, Sylvia in All Shook Up and several other musicals, gospel concerts, stage plays and commercials. Her soulful and powerful voice will have audiences back on their feet as she performs such hits as R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Mr. Postman, and our show stopping finale!

“Dream Girls, The Revue” also stars Season Company Performers, including Chanbrielle Beason, Maureen Remerowski, and Tiffany West. Other cast members include Steven Cardinal, as Dick Clark, Heather Corson, Lakeia Hodges, and Giselle Koubenec.

Theatre guests enjoy tableside seating while costumed Table Tootsies serve drinks and desserts before and during the show.

“We are so excited to revive this show! It was such a great hit with our audiences and we had to turn away so many people since it literally sold out almost every performance. We want everyone to see this show, so we decided to close the season with it.” said theatre co-founder, Artistic Director, and Broadway veteran Kirk Sprinkles. “The audience will be transported them back to the day when Motown ruled the airwaves—when the ‘girl group’ as we know it was born. Today’s female stars like Lady Gaga, Adele and Beyoncé all draw reference to the tight harmonies, complex arrangements and glamorous styles that started in the 60s.” “Dream Girls, The Revue” plays Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 8:00pm, and Sundays at 4:00pm, starting July 29 through August 28. Ticket prices range from $18 (child) to $45 (VIP Adult) and may be purchased online or by phone at 843-991-5582.

Located at 873 Folly Road on James Island, the theatre is just three miles from downtown Charleston and five miles from Folly Beach. The small, intimate theatre is designed to immerse audiences in a true cabaret experience, very similar to the famous cabaret theatres in New York City.

James & John's Islands, SC

McLeod Plantation: Discover history and serenity right on James Island

March 7, 2016

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Built in 1851, the McLeod Plantation, located on James Island played a critical role in some of the most significant periods of United States history providing shelter for soldiers during the Civil War, serving as a headquarters point during the war, raising cotton at the hands of slaves and offering transition homestead for freed slaves. In 1991, the final offspring of the McLeod family legacy passed away and with that the end of an era. He donated his land to historic Charleston who came very close to selling the land to the College of Charleston for a sports complex. Fortunate for the legacy of Charleston and its rich heritage, the Charleston County Park Council purchased the land and has restored this critical piece of Charleston history for all of us to share.

I came into my adventure onto this sacred and historic property with a desire for knowledge acquisition about our land and walked away with a feeling of serenity and peace. Like myself, many will go in looking for a little visual history lesson, but will walk away spending time in a place that has preserved its look and integrity for 160 plus years.

We invite you to step back in time and walk with us as we show you some of the visual spectacle of McLeod Plantation: one of Charleston truest historic and visual gifts. From the Big House to the Wappoo River, you will find yourself lost in yesteryear and get swept away in the romanticism of the land.

View from the front porch of the Big House

Fresh open views all around the property

Plenty of shade on those warm summer days

Transition Row where freed slaves transitioning lived and soldiers during the Civil War

Take a morning or afternoon, pack a picnic and enjoy one of the most beautiful escapes just three miles outside of Charleston proper. You will not be disappointed.

James & John's Islands, SC - Lowcountry

Charleston Performing Arts Center Takes You on a Musical Journey with Dreamgirls

February 20, 2016

by Charleston Daily 4 Comments

I met him at the candy store.
He turned around and smiled at me
You get the picture
“Yes, we see”
That’s when I fell for the leader of the pack” – The Shangri-Las

From Diana Ross to Dionne Warwick, the iconic musical and lyrical contributions of girl bands in the 1950’s and 1960’s have defined music and emotional expressionism that can be heard today in the likes of Destiny’s Child, En Vogue, TLC, The Bangles, Beyonce, Madonna and The Pointer Sisters. Through the energetic narration of American Bandstand host Dick Clark played beautifully by theater company partner Scott Pfeiffer, the audience is magically transplanted into the intimate setting of a cabaret theater in the 1950’s where Judy Garland or Frank Sinatra would have sat.

On the stage, a young girl group named The Shirelles were sitting in the high school cafeteria dreaming of winning the local music contest and becoming big stars. From Mama Said to Lollipop to the final cast encore of Dreamgirls, the audience one by one got absorbed in this musical tribute to the greatest acts of the 1950’s and 1960’s.

The performance cast is filled with incredible local talent whose singing channeled the likes of Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Martha and the Vandellas and Dianna Ross. An ensemble that includes Deidra H. Brooks, Chanbreille Beason, Joy Gregory, Traine N’ Chel, Maureen Remerowski, Sarah M. Taylor, Tiffany West and Lara Wilson.

As they transformed on stage from band to band, elegantly dressed in their most stylish dresses reflecting stardom with each sequent, the audience became part of the journey. Singing and clapping in the background, the members of the audience began to remember the moments that first heard these hits and the important life events that were connected to them.

“Baby, baby I’m aware of where you go
Each time you leave my door
I watch you walk down the street
Knowing your other love you’ll meet
But this time before you run to her
Leaving me alone and hurt
(Think it over) After I’ve been good to you
(Think it over) After I’ve been sweet to you” – The Supremes

As the energy and power of the performances accelerated in strength like the evolution of the tape recorder to a Bose surround sound system, the powerful messages that these hits provided commanded a level of attention. Throughout the years, the music evolved with the cultural struggles for equality and equal rights. When the single declaration of “RESPECT” came center of stage, the feeling of empowerment was at a height for the evening.

A theme of togetherness, harmony, sisterhood, courage and a message of love all wrapped together as the entire cast closed the evening with a collaborative performance of “Dream Girls”

“Dream…
Dreamgirls will help you through the night!
Dream…
Dreamgirls will make you feel alright!
Dreamgirls keep you dreamin’ your whole life through…
Yeah, Dreamgirls can make your dreams come true!”

During and after the performance, we observed our surroundings. The stage was ordained with steps of gold and cabaret style seating created an up close oval putting us inside the performance. The wall decor resembled an early 20th Century New York style skyscraper and the wait staff, in their welcoming poodle skirts and neck scarves filled our pallets with wine and champagne.

After the performance, in a quiet deserted theater, Scott Pfeiffer sat down with us for a few minutes. Scott was across the table with his hair combed to the right, his bright yellow stage jacket and legged crossed. Relaxed, he sat, but there was still a part of him debriefing from the evening’s performance. We discussed his past and his vision for the future. One message rang personally true; a successful live performance draws the audience into to an emotional place where they can connect with material and take them to a place away from their own reality.

Musical theater has the power to engage, reflect and remind us of things and places we may have forgotten in our own lives. We expect a bright future from the Charleston Performing Arts Theater Company.

For some, the girl band movement of the 1950’s and 60’s was a flashback to a time of youth and innocence. For others, it was a period of influence that sculpted the musical movements of today. No matter what connection was made, the contribution these young ladies gave to American music with their courage and blessed voices will never be forgotten. The next time you listen to Adele, Lady Gaga or Whitney Houston, remember the gifts they provide us would not be a reality without the powerful Dreamgirls paving the way.

Dreamgirls, The Revue, located at 873 Folly Road, James Island, SC will be playing at the Charleston Performing Arts everything Thursday, Friday and Saturday through March 26, 2016

Purchase Tickets

James & John's Islands, SC - Mount Pleasant, SC

On Forty-One Takes Mount Pleasant Dining to A Savory Experimental Level

November 19, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

On Forty-One sounds initially like the coordinates on a GPS, but this Mount Pleasant Eatery, now one year into its existence, offers a rustic restoration hardware design, open patio seating atmosphere, traditional menu of local favorites, a twist on some traditional entrees and a range of cocktails and wine to compliment any entree or salad selection. We must include that if you order the s’mores for dessert, you get a personal fire pit at your table.

Welcome to the world of On Forty-One. As you enter, most guests are won over by the enclosed patio area that is in fact more square footage than the interior, but does house the bar as well. Our wonderful experience was solidified by the fine service of Heather, whose candidness, patience and charm represented this restaurant very well.

After mulling over the selection of starters that include BBQ shrimp, hush puppies, green tomatoes, ribs and friend oysters, we let our appetite lean us to the deviled eggs. This appetizer took the classic deviled egg to a new level. Three of the eggs were topped with diced bacon and three with salmon. Touched up with capers and brought to a creamy and sweet perfection, this was an ideal beginning to our meal and complimented our Pinot Noir and Cabernet nicely.

Careful consideration when into the entree selections. Surprisingly, Heather’s top choices were not ours. She recommended the Smoked Pork Chop and Braised Beef Short Rib. Both sounded amazing and will most likely be in our future, but we had a specific mission in mind.

Lobster Shrimp and Grits and Grilled Salmon were our culinary picks for the evening.

The grilled salmon was prepared medium laying on a bed of butternut squash risotto, sauteed spinach, baked pumpkin seeds and a lobster-thyme butter. This is a critical piece of information very relevant to this review. Enjoy each bite with all the ingredients on your fork. Start with a small end of the salmon, put a tiny dab of the butter and then add the spinach and pumpkin seed. This multitude of flavor was so cleverly designed that it will linger and then send a message to your brain for more.

I did not mention adding the risotto to that bite. I want you to just enjoy the top portion of the entree first. After that, then add the risotto to the mix, but also enjoy side bites of it alone. It is presented with a mild sweetness and a creaminess. The portion is healthy and you will enjoy slow bites over great conversation. Mostly likely, this could become a second meal when you take a portion home.

The decision to go with the lobster shrimp and grits was simple; lobster is a unique ingredient and one not often found in the Lowcountry. My decision was easy. The stone ground grits were thicker and creamier that I am traditionally used to experiencing, but this heartiness structured well with the bacon, sweet onions, peppers, lobster and whole local shrimp. This meal as well, because of the complexity, was one that we recommend enjoying slowly maximizing the ingredients in each fork drop. This is a very savory and filling meal and it opened up Pandoras Box begging the question, why not more lobster based shrimp and grits.

Don’t get me wrong, I do love a three meat shrimp and grits or a simple shrimp and grits. The combination of lobster and shrimp provide two distinct flavors and both swim well in a bed of grits.

On Forty-One is slightly off the beaten path if you dining leads you to downtown Charleston, James Island or West Ashley, but it is worth the 25 minute drive. Hidden nicely in a plaza situated between Highway 17 and 41, this casual, yet intimate restaurant will offer you a complete and fulfilling dining experience.

James & John's Islands, SC

From the Charleston Harbor to the Peace Corps – Inspired Charlestonian gives back

October 28, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Sitting on a screened porch on James Island, I sip my tea and absorb the sound of the rain. Despite flood warnings and jet lag waking me up at four, I am in heaven. I am also, for the first time since moving to Lesotho, Africa sixteen months earlier, incredibly homesick.

I am not a native Charlestonian—I wear my Northern New Englander status with pride—but the five years I called Charleston home were some of the best of my life and the friends I made are truly family. It is that familial bond that induced the forty hour trip from a small, rural village in southern Africa back to the Holy City; one of my family was getting married and I found that despite it costing my annual stipend, I had to come. Everything about being in Charleston feels connected and right.

It was during my life in Charleston that I committed to living and serving abroad for 27 months in the Peace Corps. I loved my job as Program Manager for South Carolina Maritime Foundation and Spirit of South Carolina, however, even before that door closed, I was mentally headed abroad. I was dreaming of the challenges I imagined would come from living in a new culture and language, from saying goodbye to what I know and love, to expanding my worldview.

The shocking part of Peace Corps for me is that it has not been that challenging. My prior jobs seem to have prepared me so well for what is tagged as “the toughest job you’ll ever love,” that while I love it, it is nowhere near the most difficult job I have had.

I have become skilled in the local language, Sesotho. I am friends with many of my villagers and am truly a sister to the four boys in my host family. I can carry water in a bucket on my head and I only miss electricity when it rains enough consecutive days that my small solar panel cannot charge my phone. While I am thrilled when a Peace Corps workshop brings me to a hotel where I can take a traditional bath or shower, I do not miss them while bathing in three cups of water in my hut. Similarly, eating a cheeseburger or finding broccoli at the vegetable store in the district’s main town are exciting, but when I do not have them, I do not miss them.

And maybe that is what makes me so happy in Lesotho and Peace Corps. All those years of working on the ocean taught me to accept the weather we are given and to adapt to and work with it. Now, I embrace what I have and only realize I miss things when I face them again.

So, sitting alone on James Island, listening to the music of the rain, I am ecstatic that I am not also listening for the telltale sound of my thatch roof leaking. I am eager for the moment my friends will awake and we will make breakfast, interacting as if I had never moved half a world away. While I am here, I will soak up the love of wonderful friends and as much Lowcountry seafood as I can manage. I will recharge my stores of support from this incredible family we built.

Then, I will return home to Lesotho, where as soon as I enter the district’s main town, people will start greeting me from afar, yelling, “Ausi Thato!” or Sister Thato—Thato being my Sesotho name, it means God’s Will and was given to me by my host mother as it is God’s Will that I am here now. When I return to my village, the older villagers will greet me happily before accusing me of hiding myself. The children will ask to play ball, read books, or play cards with me. My brothers will visit and ask to see all the photos I took in America. I will unpack, resettle into my hut, and think, “Ahh, it is great to be home, I missed this so much!”

While my love for Charleston and my people there will remain, my homesickness will have disappeared as quickly as it came.

In the days and weeks that follow, I will walk to and from my various work sites, my heart bursting with love for the people and mountain vistas that fill my world. I will continue to be in awe that life brought me here. Because of my absence, villagers will have started to realize that I have less than a year left here. The will fret and claim I must live here forever. I will teach children life skills, weigh infants, work with HIV positive teens, and build the organization capacity of the Community Care Coalition I work with. Everything about being in Lesotho will feel connected and right.