Charleston Daily - Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

Hard Rain – Original Poem Inspired by Charleston Flooding Tragedy

October 5, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Winds from the East; rain up above
The mighty gates of heaven woke up to a thunder roll

A peninsula drowning in tears

It was a moment of faith
Tested far beyond our reach
We braced in the temples and prayed for relief

It was a mighty hard rain falling on our home
Covering our memories
Drowning our hopes

Washing away the lives we had built; homes we had made
Generations watching from rescue boats as they said goodbye

A hard rain fell on a land still filled with scars
The sounds of tragedy still linger behind

In the darkness, we found heroes
Rising from this drenched hell
Helping neighbors
Providing shelter
Opening their doors to strangers

Soon the sun will rise high above the crystal clear blue skies

A smile from the angels
Opening their hearts for the anticipation of new tomorrow

A light will dry our land; warm our shivering bodies
Once again to be reminded of a special place filled with promise; aligned with strength

It is a place so few will understand
A place where history and the future collide
Where family is a fort never to be broken

A hard rain fell and today we sing and rejoice

Food & Bev - James & John's Islands, SC

Thai Elephants Restaurant Spices Up James Island

October 5, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Thai and sushi are becoming a very common part of the Charleston food portfolio. It is now beginning to be easier to differentiate the quality of the cuisine. Thai Elephants Restaurant is nicely hidden just off of Folly Road between Walgreens and Sonic. What a combination.

The first impressive thing as you enter the restaurant are the tables. Wooden hand carved sculptures under the glass table provide an authentic and unique setting. It is a truly masterful site with tremendous attention and detail placed into each tabletop.

It is a small place so if busy, don’t be afraid to sit by the sushi bar. The sushi bar is a comfortable “L” shaped seating area with an intimate view of the sushi chef. It is very comfortable and easy to have a conversation. We thoroughly enjoyed it. Plus we got the first hand smells from the kitchen and sushi preparation station. For some that is a big deciding factor.

The spring rolls were very light and mouthwatering. You get two cut in half so it very sharable and a good way to start the evening.

The sushi is excellent. Very tight rolls with a rich fresh ingredients. There are a number of traditional and specialty combinations of sushi, nagiri and sashimi.

I had the coconut basil soup. It was not what I had expected. There was more of a lemongrass taste so the sweetness of coconut was minimized. Yet, I still thoroughly enjoyed the taste which blended sweet, tangy and a tiny bit of spice. If you are expecting the same sweet taste as the coconut soup as Basils, don’t get this, but if you want a good strong soup, this is well prepared.

The staff is very very friendly and constantly smiling. It was almost infectious how genuinely happy each member of the staff was and how much they went out of their way to assist. During our entire dining experience, they let us set the paced. If you want a casual night out with good long conversation, this is a great place where you will not feel rushed.

This is one of the better thai and sushi choices in Charleston and we strongly recommend.

Red Letter Days with Sirsy at Barn Jam in Awendaw

October 1, 2015

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

Sirsy, the husband and wife duo from Saratoga, New York took the stage at Awendaw Green for Barn Jam last evening under the pretense of rain and potential thunder, lightning and area flooding. That did not steer away the crowd from an evening of gifted music. Led by Melanie’s vocals and Richard’s guitar, they warded off the bad weather to plant the roots for a great evening of live music.

From the rolling hills of Upstate New York to the Lowcountry of South Carolina, Sirsy brought a unique blend of rock, funk, instrumental and sing along passion to their set.

Recently, married this summer, Sirsy at first glance provides a unique approach to the traditional anatomy of a band; only two members. Melanie is versed in drums, flute and vocals, while Rich takes his tight guitar riffs to new levels.

After anointing the audience with a rich opening of songs that combined elements of early 70’s rock, funk, jam and ZZ Ward / Katy Perry strong female vocal anthems, Melanie took a step back and introduced their mantra song, Revolution. As she explained it, the song represents inner passion and leading a life of desire, unexpected journeys and complete fulfillment. It is about “doing your own thing like forming a two person rock band and driving around the country in a creeper van”.

Sirsy then got the audience going again with Cannonball or the “hey, hey song”. With her wit, strong connection to the audience and infectious smile, Melanie drew the audience into her world one song at a time. Here cannibalistic beating of the drums along with Rich’s inspired guitar play welcomed new fans onto their journey.

Awendaw is one stop along a tour that is carrying them along the coast. At the end of the set, Rich and Melanie combined for a powerful drum duet while Rich still carried his guitar piece. It was the marriage of Metallica and John Stewart. With power and accuracy, they beat the drums while they playfully laughed acknowledging the true bond they share with one another and their fans.

The final drum power bash could be seen as a symbol of their commitment to take the country by storm. Ironic twist as Hurricane Joaquin is lingering just off the coast.

They were the highlight of a set of singer/songwriters which included Eric Sommer who has traveled the hills of Appalachia to the streets of Nashville; Texas to New York bringing deep rooted blues and poetic storytelling to the stage. Weigh Station wanted you out of Chinatown and Forlorn Strangers introduced a little Tennessee bluegrass to the stage.

After the show, with only the light of the moon to provide us with exposure, I asked Melanie and Rich, what their go to songs were and who they would love to collaborate with. There was a clear British influence in their responses with Bowie and The Beatles leading the charge.

Band of Skulls was a unanimous selection for mates to collaborate with. Maybe one day, we will see two musical forces combine sharing creative energies.

As they departed for the highway in their “creeper” white van, we said our farewells and wished them well. As they drove into the darkness, it was clear; the future looks bright for Sirsy.

Roadside Seafood – A Coastal Dining Gift in Charleston

September 30, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Once you step foot inside this tiny twelve table restaurant situated between the Island Bar and Convenience Store on Folly Road, you are swept away by the smell of traditional Southern fried wonder. After inhaling your first 400 calories, it is hard to step away. Ordained with a rustic coastal decor and lobster table clothes, you will feel right at home. We must be fair, due to the size, there is often a wait for a table depending on the time of day.

Our waitress approached in her Roadside Seafood black tee-shirt and jeans and greeted us with a smile and structured her service to our needs, starting with a drink order all the way through final receipt of bill. She even took the time to compliment my pairings which were taken well to heart.

This evening, we looked at all the elements of the menu and selected a eclectic range of edible treats.

The Southwestern shrimp egg roll is a must. This gently fried roll is cut in half, oozing with cheese, with a mouth watering combination of seasoned sauteed shrimp black beans, corn and onions. It is served with sweet chili sauce and BAM sauce. We recommend you try both and determine your favorite. This is great appetizer to begin your evening to indulge alone or share.

The Lowcountry She-Crab Soup offers a full bodied sweet and tangy flavor on your taste buds. This soup is filled with a healthy offering of thick lumps of crab meat and savored with a touch of sherry. We ordered the bowl and shared and still took some home. It is a full and complete meal as a stand alone item. Perhaps a cup may fill your personal needs. Just a helpful hint.

If you are a fan of tacos and seafood, the BAM Shrimp Taco or Jerk Mahi will not disappoint your cravings.

For the entree, there is an offering of small and large baskets (Difference being one or two sides). I went with the fried catfish with homemade mac and cheese. Let us start with the mac and cheese. It is prepared with large thick Penne style pasta and coated in thick creamy cheese. You can do red rice, BAM cole slaw or sweet potato fries, but the mac and cheese is so delicious that it can be hard to pass up.

The catfish fillet was a large single piece fried and served up in a basket that was barely big enough for the serving size. This dish is prepared with an number of spices to offer a sharp and moderately spicy kick as it goes down your throat.

All in all, a delightful dining experience that kept us full for most of the rest of the evening.

Combining traditional Southern cuisine with fresh seafood is a winning combination for Roadside Seafood located at 807 Folly Road, James Island.

Sunrise on The Battery – Quiet Morning in Charleston

September 29, 2015

by Charleston Daily 2 Comments

There is nothing more spectacular than a Charleston sunrise or sunset. What makes a sunrise so remarkable is the absolute tranquility and silence that compliments a visual show of elegant serenity. So often, we distracted by the tourists, cars, carriages, golf carts, dogs, runners, bikers and cameras that we lose sight of just home important a quiet moment can be to clear our minds and free our souls.

The Battery captures the essence of a true Charleston sunrise. With the sun rising from the Harbor on the East and the colors of Rainbow Row and the flowers that ordain the walkway exploding in a shower of positive energy, it is a treat to see. As you walk or sit, locals with be out for an early morning jog or to walk the dogs. Don’t hesitate to smile and say good morning. You know they will.

This visual point of view should sway your intentions to set your alarm a little bit earlier and experience this for yourself or with someone you love.

Good morning Charleston. A flower to symbolize the start of a beautiful day

There is something magical about that yellow ball rising from the harbor

The smell of the flowers add to the experience

The reflection in the water goes right to your toes

Whether you look to your left or right, the view is perfect

The Palmer House is always a sight to see at 5 East Battery

The very first moments of dawn are a rainbow in the sky

All calm in the Charleston Harbor

Eclectic realm of natural life

All is right when you start your day with a quiet sunrise at The Battery

A Walk Through Old Sheldon Church

September 28, 2015

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

It was threatening rain off and on all day so typical lay on the beach all day plans were out. So we decided on a road trip to finally go check out the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. We picked up a bag of guacamole chips and a ZZ Ward CD, and we were on our way.

If you head south on 17, just before you hit I-95, you will find Old Sheldon Church.

The church was built between 1745-1755 and was partially burned in 1779 by the British during the Revolutionary War. It was rebuilt in 1826 only to be burned again by General Sherman during his march from in 1865.

Since Sherman’s march, letters have surfaced stating that the church actually did not burn. The letter, written by Miton Leverett in 1866, explained that the inside was merely torn up beyond repair. Supposedly the materials were used to repair other places that were affected by Sherman’s torch.

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Now only the brick infrastructure remains, along with a few columns towering around it, the front four still commanding your initial attention as you walk up to the church site. These columns are said to be America’s first attempt at imitating a Greek temple.

As you walk inside the church, there is an altar type stone and the final resting place of Colonel William Bull. Colonel Bull played an integral part in assisting with the development of Savannah’s grid pattern layout.

Lovingly called “Sheldon” after Lt. Gov. William Bull I’s plantation, the church is officially named Prince William’s Parish Church. Lt. Gov. Bull paid for most of Sheldon Church.

Church services are still held here the second Sunday after Easter.

Stoll’s Alley: Corridor to History in Charleston

September 26, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Today’s hidden Charleston treasure is a narrow corridor situated between East Bay and Church Street. This narrow walkway donned with historic homes, statues, flowers and moss offers a romantic and historic view of Charleston. As you walk through, pay close attention to the walls, entryways and driveways. There are tiny gems throughout this one block walk.

Make sure you add this to your personal walking tour of Charleston.

Walk with me for a few moments as we document this quiet Saturday morning stroll down Stoll’s Alley.

Entrance way right off of East Bay Street

Horse knob by the front entrance of a residence

Lamp post against traditional brick

Old original external decor

Church Street entrance

Colonial designed home

Devil on the violin

That is a nice way to enter your home

The light shines bright

Love in Stoll’s Alley

We hope you can all enjoy your own stroll and make some wonderful memories from Stoll’s Alley.

Hint: It is just before White Point Gardens if you are heading toward The Battery.

Poetry Slams into the Hearts of Charleston at Pure Theater

September 24, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

On Tuesday, September 22, Unspoken Word hosted the Holy City Slam at the Pure Theater. Host and MC Derek Berry opened the evening with comedic banter and an expressive explanation of how poetry knows no judgement or boundaries.

Co-host Matthew Foley subjected himself as the sacrificial lamb doing A Letter to the Poetry Slammers as a test for the judges and the audience. The strength of prose and powerful message of complete emotional release was a driving force to fuel the evening. From dancing on the stage to an explosion of words, Matthew provided a guideline for life.

The evening featured four performing contestants. The rules were simple.

Each poet performs two pieces. Round one and round two.
Each poet has 3 minutes with a 10 second grace period
Five judges rule on a scale of 1 – 10
The top two performers would go on to Round three. Each finalist scores from round one and two are erased and it becomes a one round finale.

The performances were on extreme ends of the life spectrum, ranging from racial relations to relationships to sexting to infant loss. There was nothing held back from this core of contestants than included a performer that had only been on stage for the second time in his life.

As the scores were tallied during a brief intermission, local Charleston performers took the stage in an open mic form. While Marcus Amaker spoke of drowning in a waterfall of love soaked in intimate lust and desirable love, Derek and Matthew cut themselves metaphorically with an ode to a father and a mother. Both poems released truths of emotionally challenging periods of facing failure and death.

From Mickey Mantle to Lupus, I think every one of the 60 plus members of the audience could internalize from these two poignant poems about family.

In the final round Saeed and Liz were left standing. First Saeed and then Liz. The five judges weighed heavily on presentation, content, emotion and impact on the audience. In the end, Liz took the higher score, but all four contestants came out victorious. It was a night of the spoken word. A night where we all sat in a house of worship, with no religion to be found.

From silent concentration to screams from the audience, the extremely active audience participation showed what an important part our lives poetry plays.

For a moment, I closed my eyes and listened to the music play from the stage. Without instruments; just the lyrics of the heart.

As Derek made note early on in the evening, the night was about not holding back. It was about complete and unadulterated freedom

Sometime our greatest fear in life is to hear what we don’t want to know. Expressive emotion is hard; then again so is life.

The Poetry Slam was a night where love and expression came together for all.

Velcro, Molasses, and Cigarette Ashes: Lily Slays the Crowd

September 22, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Jessica Edwards - Photography provided by TK-Productions — By Jessica Edwards – Photography provided by TK-Productions

“I think I add a very outspoken, unafraid female voice, musically and socially. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, so that inherently creates a dialogue,” says Lily Slay, 29, local musician and comic, on what she adds to the Charleston music scene. She is certainly unafraid, and has chosen to match her aesthetic to her actions: donning loud wigs, kick-ass outfits, and expressive makeup.

She comments “I love when whimsy, absurdity, and brightness in art are used as a veil over darkness and raw, visceral emotion, which is a common theme and a goal for me in my music.” Among her other talents, Ms. Slay is also a cartoonist, sketching a black and white strip called Sad Badger, which is a more contemporary version of Eeyore of Winnie the Pooh fame.

When it comes to working in Charleston, Lily does a little bit of everything—from delivering pizza for D’Allesandro’s to working the desk at Roses and Ruins Tattoo Downtown. Perhaps what she is most well known for is singing for local outfit The Royal Tinfoil. A bluesy/gypsy folk band, Tinfoil’s songs soar along with Slay’s alto in a smooth, but thought provoking progression. To put it simply: once you hear them, you can’t stop listening. Try them out—their entire album is available for purchase or streaming online at royaltinfoil.bandcamp.com

I myself stumbled upon Lily Slay at the Recovery Room on upper King St. She was playing a smaller set, trademark kazoo in hand. Once she finished, I knew I had to find out more about her, so I reached out for an interview. Along with being very talented, Lily is also quite friendly, willing to be frank and open about herself.

On her beginnings, Lily said she was always a musical kid, “but a lot of my flair for performing came from the theater in school. With my alto range and larger frame, however, I never landed big roles. I wasn’t a pretty, petite soprano. I think my longing to create my own character and sing my own music was born of the frustration of not having my vocal ability taken seriously by a lot of the adults in my life.”

As an adult, she has certainly created her own character–a wonderful and whimsical strong woman, unabashed of her own talents, with flawlessly applied eyeliner and a killer wit. On songwriting, she says, “I’m often fairly sarcastic, too, but I love a proverbial wink to the listener that says, ‘you’re in on the joke.”’ When asked to describe her style, she puts it this way: “I always say I’m ‘velcro, molasses, and cigarette ashes.’ It means I’m a little gritty, but still polished; a smidge romantic, but a bit cynical.”

She’s not planning on solely sticking to the same kind of music, either. “It’s important to evolve. I want to keep growing and challenging myself. Currently, I’m working on an electronic dance music project and possibly a du-wop garage rock outfit.” And who doesn’t want to hear what that sounds like?

If you’re interested in seeing Lily Slay, you can catch her at Recovery Room with her drummer, Kain Naylor, October 6th. If you want more consistent Lily, she and Mackie Boles, the original line-up for the Royal Tinfoil, will be doing a residency on the deck at Charleston Pour house on Tuesdays all through November, and she hints at the possibility of some special guests along the way.

Lily Slay – Follow on Twitter

How Charlestonian Are You? Ultimate Charleston Daily Quiz

September 19, 2015

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

How Charlestonian Are You – Ultimate Charleston Daily Quiz

Here is an opportunity to test the strength of your Charleston foundation. Are you truly a member of the finest community in the country or just passing through town? Take this 25 question quiz and see how Charlestonian you really are. Feel free to print the questionnaire and answer sheet and play along with family and friends.
Remember: No Cheating!!!! No internet, library, smartphones, phone a friend or ask a professor.

1. Name two Pat Conroy books, from memory.
2. Name five Charleston County Parks.
3. How many pets have you rescued?
4. What do the following acronyms stand for:

I.O.P. _____________
P.A.C. _____________
CofC _____________
S.N.O.B. ___________

5. Name all three of Charleston’s professional sports teams.
6. What year did Charleston stop using mini bottles?
7. What was the name of the major record store on the corner of King and Calhoun Street prior to it being Walgreens?
8. How many Cooper River Bridge Runs have you participated in?
(Can be run/walk/volunteer)
9. What was the date Hugo hit Charleston?
10. Who is the #1 seller of PBR in the US? Hint: It’s on the Peninsula
11. What current NY Yankees star was a College of Charleston graduate?
12. Where is Barn Jam held?
13. Do tourists bug you?
14. Which state do you hate people from most?

__ Ohio
__ New York
__ Michigan
__ Massachusetts
__ New Jersey
__ All of the Above

15. Clemson, Carolina, or some other team?
16. Do you own a boat, kayak, or jet ski?
17. Do you surf or S.U.P.?
18. Is your air conditioning off between May and October?
19. Do you like shrimp and grits?
20. For a weekend get-a-way, would you rather spend it…
__Walking around the historic streets of Savannah, Ga
__Tanning on the sands of Myrtle Beach
__Hiking in the mountains of Asheville, NC
21. Who is Charleston’s Best Friend?
a. a dog b. a truck
c. a train d. Savannah
22. Are you happy that Boeing came to Charleston?
__ Yes __ No __ Don’t Really Care
23. How many pairs of flip flops do you own?
24. Which Charleston native signed the Declaration of Independence?
25. Did you live in Charleston prior to Joe Riley being mayor?

How Charlestonian Are You? – Printable Quiz

How Charlestonian Are You Answer Sheet