Azalea Magazine Summer 2012

SALTWATER FISHING WITH RALPH PHILLIPS

FLAVOR FANATICS / FOOD WITH SOUL / INTRODUCING:“SOUTHERN GRACES” ADOPTABLE ART / MARY ALICE MONROE’S “TURTLE SUMMER” / LIFE IS A MARATHON

FREE ~ SUMMER 2012

THE BEST SUMMER LOOKS FOR THE NEXT GREAT GENERATION OF SOUTHERNERS

THE MUSIC MAKER

A young artisan practices a centuries-old craft

FIELD TRIP

O l d S o ut h ~ S umme r vil le’s Magazi ne

NEW YORK CITY LIVING

How one Summerville boy took his dream all the way to the movies

THE MAKING of a SOUTHERN WEDDING A three day celebration of love, life and Lowcountry culture

A father & daughter’s first bird hunt

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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LET’S “TURN” THINGS AROUND I am a life-long resident of Dorchester County and feel our citizens throughout Dorchester County deserve a highly principled Sheriff who will continuously put Dorchester families first. I am a graduate of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA), FBI National Academy and have more than 20 years of proven, professional law enforcement experience within Dorchester County. In addition to my previously mentioned experience, I am a graduate of the Citadel; having earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, supported with a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). Currently, I serve as Security Coordinator for Dorchester District Two Schools.

As Sheriff of Dorchester County, I pledge to put Dorchester families first. In order to protect Dorchester families and put all citizens first, I will be committed to fighting crime.

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FEATURES AZALEA Magazine / Summer 2012

62

MUSIC MAKER

Amid the rich, history-steeped forests of the South, a young artisan practices a centuries-old craft by Jana Riley

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FIELD TRIP

A father and daughter’s first bird hunt by Will Rizzo

68

THE YOUNG SOUTH

The best summer looks for the next great generation of Southerners by Margie Sutton

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NEW YORK CITY LIVING

How one Summerville boy took his dream all the way to the movies

by Katie DePoppe

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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CONTENTS

/ AZALEA Magazine / Summer 2012

18 50 LIFE & FAITH Life Is A Marathon

by Will Browning

SOUTHERN STYLE

57 Making Of A Southern Wedding

18

A three day celebration of love, life and Lowcountry culture

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15 06 Editor’s Letter 10 Contributors 12 Letters

SOUTHERN LIFE

15 Southern Spotlight - Sport 18 Southern Spotlight - Food 20 Southern Spotlight - Art COLUMNS 23 On The Road Again

by Jana Riley 29 Patchwork Of The South

by Michelle Lewis 33 The Literary Note

by Mary Alice Monroe

39 Mind Your Manners

by Elizabeth Donehue 43 TASTE

Soul Food Three truly Southern recipes that are good for the soul

57 90 Seasonal Calendar 94-95 For the Cause

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JSL “Boots, Boogie & BBQ” Gala Southern Flame Festival

96 Last Call

ON THE COVER: Bishop Colucci at Middleton Plantation. Sundress courtesy of GingerSnaps / Photograph by Virgil Bunao

Making generation after generation after generation SMILE!

-Patsy Banks, Sarah Banks Tapp, Betsy Banks Tapp

Visit our website at www.lowcountrysmiles.com to view our before and after photos, as well as a complete list of our services Advanced Dental Center of Summerville 89 Old Trolley Road Summerville, SC 29485 Phone: (843) 873-1261

Dr. James Muscott Dr. Will Rahn Dr. Randy Jones AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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/ EDITOR’S LETTER

Memories Of Summer Growing up here, summer was always my favorite season. While it first had more to do with a break from school, as I got older, it was about the memories I made when I wasn't caught up in due dates, exams and schedules.

To this day, the smell of sunscreen and Beach Boys music transports me to sweaty bicycle rides delivering our neighborhood newspaper (one of my and a lifelong friend's schemes the summer before 5th grade), seemingly endless, balmy days spent watching movies with my mom, countless hours in the Corey Woods pool and the feeling of a Dodge Neon filled with my high school pals on our way to Folly.

I know I'm not alone. Our town gets its name honestly. Yes, it's beautiful in the fall, winter and spring, but there's something about Summerville in the summer.

As always, we are honored to bring you this edition of Azalea. There's a little bit of everything as we enter into these hottest of months. Collect some salt water fishing tips (and some life lessons) from master angler, Ralph Phillips (pg. 15). Gather ideas for your next celebration from a remarkable southern soirĂŠe complete with Lowcountry cuisine and cowboy boots (pg. 53). Cook up some of Meme's "soul food" recipes for your next backyard gathering (pg. 43). Or take a vacation to NYC to visit one former Summervillian (remember those high school pals I mentioned?) who has followed his artistic dream to the Big Apple (pg. 84). There's something for everyone in this summer issue. Regardless, I hope you enjoy these next few months and revel in the memories of sunscreen and beach music.

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

Katie DePoppe Editor at Large

summerville medical center

is MY hospital.

Garry has spent most of his life serving others. At Summerville Medical Center, he uses his skills as a certified surgical tech to assist with caesarean section births.

His patients immediately notice Garry’s warmth and the care he takes in making sure patients and families are involved in their healthcare decisions. Garry knows bringing new life into the world is a gift. It’s his way of giving back to his community and it makes Summerville Medical Center his hospital.

“ I love bringing new life into the world. These babies are full of promise and new beginnings.”

Garry Turner, CST Patient Care Tech

T R I D E N T H E A LT H www.tridenthealthsystem.com AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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ENJOY HOME-COOKED FLAVOR TO GO Choose Carrabba’s Carside Carry-Out for delicious hand-prepared dishes the whole family will love. Call or order online ahead of time and let us know when you’d like to pick it up, and your dinner will be ready when you are. It’s never been easier for you and your family to enjoy a home-cooked Italian meal any night of the week.

Will Rizzo Co-Publisher and Editor in Chief will@azaleamag.com Dottie Langley Rizzo Co-Publisher and Managing Editor dottie@azaleamag.com Katie DePoppe Editor at Large katie@azaleamag.com Margie Sutton Style Editor

North Charleston • 2150 Northwoods Blvd. • 843-824-0404 Mt. Pleasant • 2668 U.S. Highway 17 • 843-849-9126

Will Browning Faith Editor Jacqueline Castimore Design Intern Advertising Jenefer Hinson (Print) jenefer@azaleamag.com 843.729.9669 Jana Riley (Web) jana@azaleamag.com 843.860.6049

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

Azalea Magazine 114B E. Richardson Avenue Summerville, SC 29483 info@azaleamag.com www.azaleamag.com

Grab A Copy We can be found at many locations throughout the area.

Visit www.azaleamag.com for a complete list.

Subscribe *Available for $13.99 a year (4 Issues). Visit azaleamag.com for details.

/ CONTRIBUTORS

VIRGIL BUNAO Photographer

JANA RILEY / Writer and Copy Editor

MARY ALICE MONROE Author

Virgil is an award-winning photographer who lives in Summerville with his beautiful wife, Courtney and two children, Jacob and Claire.

Jana is a writer and editor living in Summerville with her husband, Dan. Jana enjoys adventures with her two favorite kids, Noah and Jude, and their dog, Alfie. jana@azaleamag.com

Mary Alice Monroe is an award-winning and NT Times bestselling author known for writing novels that explore compelling parallels between nature and human nature.

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

MICHELLE LEWIS Writer

ELIZABETH DONEHUE Writer

MARGIE SUTTON Stylist

Michelle is a mother of two.

Currently pursuing a career in children’s literature, she has learned that being called childish may not be such a bad thing after all.

Elizabeth is a fundraiser, event planner, and etiquette hardliner. Growing up in Summerville, she has a great love for the “Flowertown in the Pines.

Margie is the mother of four and grandmother of two.

A thirty year veteran of the beauty and fashion industry, She manages the Summerville Stella Nova location.

elizabethdonehue@gmail.com

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/ LETTERS

INTO THE WILD: WITH JIMMY AND BETH HUGGINS OF S.E.W.E.

Also Featuring: LOCAL BOOK OVERVIEW / PRIZE WINNING AUTHOR: TIM OWENS JASON KNIGHT: MASTER BLADESMITH / STONE GROUND GRITS

AZALEA WOOD&WATER

FREE ~ SPRING 2012

Mode r n L ivin g in the O l d Sou th ~ Su m m e r vil l e’s Magazine

AMIDST THE EBB AND FLOW OF JOHN MARTIN’S LIFE, BOAT BUILDING ALWAYS CALMED THE WATERS

pg. 34

EVEN ENJOY THE ADVERTISING

What a great magazine! The articles are always well–written and interesting. The photography is superb.

I even enjoy the advertising. I read it cover to cover and I don’t even live anywhere around Summerville.

Thanks for a great publication.

Charlie R. Florida

ASKING MY CUSTOMERS I originally found you by asking my customers what local media they would choose to advertise in. Azalea Magazine won the competition for the Summerville area. I think my customers have very good taste!

Suzy Anderson Walterboro

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: We welcome your letters and comments. Email letters to info@azaleamag.com. Emails should include full contact info.

We reserve the right to edit letters for legibility and length.

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

/ LETTERS THANKS

Another great issue! Thanks!

Ryan McElheny Summerville

BEAUTIFUL

Beautiful magazine!

Beth Campbell Stoney Summerville

AMAZING

Amazing Magazine!

Taylor Charpia Summerville

LOVE EVERY ISSUE

I love every issue that I have read!

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PASSED AROUND

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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LIFE S

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T

H

E

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All of the things we love to enjoy at a Southern pace

Casting Lines

On land and at sea, Ralph Phillips shares the bounty of his fishing experience with the people of the Lowcountry / by Jana Riley

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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Had Ralph Phillips paid these people off ?

I began to wonder this as I had lunch with Mr. Phillips and his business partner, David Fladd, at Oscar’s Restaurant in Summerville on a recent spring afternoon. After all, in the span of ten minutes, no fewer than five people stopped by the table to praise the fisherman’s advice and friendship.

“I’ve always been told he’s the best fisherman in Charleston,” a suited man remarked. “I think it’s true–we always catch fish when we go out with Ralph.”

“Ralph, I saw the video of you at that charity event recently,” a woman in tennis gear shared. “Y’all were phenomenal!”

Others came over to simply shake his hand, with a nod of respect and a genuine greeting: “It’s good to see you, Ralph.”

As I was interviewing Phillips for a story, all this gushing seemed a little suspicious–that is, until I spent a little more time with him. Between the lunch and a later fishing trip with the Azalea Magazine team, it became clear that these little interruptions are just business as usual for Phillips.

“There are days - especially on weekends - that my phone doesn’t stop ringing,” he laughed. “It is usually a friend out on a boat, asking where they should be casting their lines, looking for directions to a prime spot, wondering what type of bait to use to catch certain fish...things like that.

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I hooked the fish just an hour after Ralph shared the first of many fishing tips with our crew

They say, ‘Ralph, I’m at this river. Where do I go? What do I do?’”

David Fladd smiled knowingly. “It’s true.

Ralph never fails to offer advice to his friends–and he has a LOT of friends.”

A sun-weathered man in his sixties whose eyes bear a perpetual mischievous gleam, Phillips does seem to have a lot of friends. Hailing from Myrtle Beach, he came to the area over 30 years ago while working in the textile industry. He held a job with Levi Strauss for a number of years but left the company when he was asked to transfer out of state.

“I came to Charleston for the fishing. I stayed in Charleston for the fishing,” he explained. “I wouldn’t dream of leaving this area.”

It’s not a stretch to say that hundreds of people–now his friends–have benefited from Phillip’s choice to stay, including members of the Summerville Saltwater Angler’s Club, a family-oriented fishing club he started last March.

“The initial idea for the club was to provide a place where families

can come together, sharing and learning about fishing our waterways in a fun, lighthearted environment,” Phillips explained.

With a little initiative, his idea came to fruition - and then some. Now, the club boasts over 100 members, and regularly has to implement a waiting list to accommodate its growth. Its dedicated board of directors is a dozen strong, including a 12year-old girl who serves as a representative for the younger anglers. Six times a year, the group holds catch–and–release fishing tournaments, and smaller tournaments occur regularly.

The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month, often taking part in familyfriendly seminars. Topics run the gamut; from lessons on boating safety and how to care for outboard motors, to basic first aid–including what to do if a fellow boater has a heart attack, and how to detach yourself from a renegade fishing hook.

“I just want to take care of this community,” Phillips said with passion. “That includes bringing these families together, teaching people the things they need or want to know, and sharing a strong conservation message in the process.”

As the Summerville Saltwater Angler’s club grew, Phillips and David Fladd began to hear the call for a second fishing-related project, and soon, Ralph Phillips Inshore Productions was born.

“Ralph has over 40 years of fishing experience,” David Fladd began. “With his training, an amateur can become well informed in a much shorter time than if they were learning on their own.”

With this in mind, the pair set out making inshore fishing instruction videos: Fladd behind the camera; Phillips stealing the show.

“Ralph’s personality really shines in these videos,” David laughed.

“They aren’t dry instructional technique videos - they are actually fun to watch while you are learning. Ralph involves his audience - he even jokes with them through the camera.”

Currently in production, the series of downloadable, online how-to videos is aimed at people who are interested in fishing but don’t know where to start. A few tutorials are already available on the company’s website for a small fee, along with rods, bait and gear.

For Phillips, the goal of this project is to help people become confident in their fishing abilities.

“I want to share the ‘know-how’ –not just the type of fish we have locally, but where to find them and what to look for,” he explained. “I’m taking everything I know about fishing, applying all the feedback I have recieved from 30 years of taking people fishing, adding the knowledge I have of the local fish populations and waterways, and bringing it to our viewers with the hope that they will become capable and confident in their fishing skills.”

“I can have you fishing in one afternoon,” he added, assuredly.

I wasn’t as confident as Phillips about the prospect of me catching a fish. Many hours have passed with a fishing rod in my hands, bait in the water and absolutely no activity, so I was fairly convinced that all fish generally had an innate aversion to me.

Sensing this, he invited me to go fishing with David and himself, urging me to “bring whoever,” as if we were old friends.

The following week, while standing in Phillip’s boat, I reeled in a trout–the first I’ve ever caught. I realized his confident pitch–that he could have me

CASTING LINES Continued

fishing in one afternoon–was somehow underselling himself; I hooked the fish just an hour after he shared the first of many fishing tips with our crew. As he whooped and smiled and clapped me on the back, I began to see one of the many reasons why Phillips has such a multitude of friends; he delights in other’s accomplishments. While he still enjoys casting and reeling in the aquatic whoppers of our waters, he seems to take even more pleasure in helping and watching others succeed, especially when it comes to fishing.

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For more on Summerville Saltwater Anglers, visit summervillesaltwateranglers.com For more on Ralph Phillips Inshore Productions, visit ralphphillipsinshore.com www.fnbsc.com

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

As a man who knows the inlets and waterways of Charleston like no other, as well as the behavior patterns of our local species, if there were ever an ambassador for Lowcountry fishing, it would be Ralph Phillips. Fortunately for all local anglers, Phillips’ passion for people and fishing has evolved into a passion for teaching other people to fish, sharing his wisdom and experience with the spirited devotion only a Carolina fisherman could possess. AM

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This Page: Mick, Matt and Brandon. Opposite: One of CBC’s many fresh flavors

SOUTHERNSPOTLIGHT

their friends and family...it’s like you always have a fan in Summerville.”

Flavor Fanatics

Mick agrees. “Brandon and I went to Summerville High School together. The school has so many students that you really want to stand out in some way, which encouraged us, I think.

The town itself was the perfect size to foster our creativity and ideas; it’s just small enough and just big enough.”

Cannonborough (Drinks)

Local boys brew up delightful concoctions in the form of handcrafted sodas / by Jana Riley There’s just something about Summerville.

That’s the consensus among the three young minds behind the Cannonborough Beverage Company, a new handcrafted soda venture based in Charleston.

After high school, the guys moved to downtown Charleston, attending school and working various restaurant gigs. Brandon and Mick scored positions at the famed Gin Joint, an old-school bar catering to “refined and casual” Charleston proper and serving expertly crafted cocktails with mixologist moxie.

“We learned how to compose drinks in the same manner you’d compose food.”

Comprised of local boys and longtime friends Matt Fendley, Mick Matricciano and Brandon Wogamon, the group attributes much of their entrepreneurial ways to growing up in Summerville.

“We learned how to compose drinks in the same manner you’d compose food,” Brandon explains. “After a short time, we began to notice that there wasn’t really a representation in the same manner for non-alcoholic beverages.”

“Summerville is a very supportive town,” Brandon offers, and Matt nods emphatically. “The people really get behind the projects of

Mick eventually moved on to bartend at The Belmont, a cushy lounge on upper King, and FIG, a neighborhood restaurant with

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emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients. Brandon headed over to work at Social Restaurant and Wine Bar. As their careers progressed, they kept coming back to the idea of a well-composed, non-alcoholic drink, and started discussing how they could create a market for the product in the Charleston area. Their good friend Matt Fendley’s accounting knowledge rounded out the trio’s areas of expertise, and the plan really began to take shape.

“One day,” Mick relates, “Brandon said, ‘Let’s do it.’ And we did.”

feedback from the community, and the community is our target audience–it’s important that they love our sodas!”

The positive response from taste testers was encouraging, and the team pressed on. Past and possibly recurring flavors have included Lemon Mint, Strawberry Jalapeno, Cucumber Orange Zest and Cherry Vanilla.

The sodas, which are often described as “tasty carbonated fruit juice without pulp” have no artificial flavors or preservatives, and very little sweetener. For example, 72 ounces of the Strawberry Jalapeno soda contains less than a cup of sugar.

While flavors were being perfected, Mick took part in the Charleston Wine + Food Festival mixologist competition–and won.

His “Flowerhorn Sour” won the title of “Official Cocktail” for the festival, and over 1,000 guests enjoyed the beverage at the opening night party. Around the same time, the guys set out to grab a coveted spot in the 2012 Charleston Farmer’s Market. After a lengthy process, they were approved, and finally began selling their product to the local masses on April 7. Currently, three flavors are available each week for $3.00 a glass, straight from the tap. The soda is never more than a week old, as ingredients are sourced at the farmer’s market the week before. The trio plans to sell growlers in the future, which they say will be perfect for bringing home, pairing with alcohol, and creating specialty cocktails.

For months, the team spent countless hours sourcing products, trying different techniques, and perfecting recipes. Using local, farm fresh products, the guys would create flavors based on what was available from nearby farms each week, choosing organic produce whenever possible. After handjuicing their picks, they’d brew up small test batches using a forced carbonation process and sample the drinks at Social Wine Bar. “The team at Social and its patrons have really been nurturing to our process,” Brandon says. “We were able to get a lot of great

Cannonborough Beverage Company claims that they are “very local,” and for good reason. Utilizing fresh products grown in Lowcountry soil, these hometown boys are using expertise garnered from gigs at local establishments. Their ability to build a balanced drink while incorporating unique flavor combinations serves them well in their quest to serve the people of the South.

Brandon admits that he and the guys have a definite affinity for beverages as a whole.

“We love the history of drink: where it came from and where it’s going. With Cannonborough Beverage Company, we can be a part of the latter.” AM

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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...a once lookedover shelter dog becomes somewhat of a local celebrity.

Maute made a few calls, and got in touch with staff members at the Charleston Animal Society.

The newfound team tossed some ideas around and began planning the first collaborative class, which took place in December 2011.

The process is simple; each month, a “My Best Friend” class is scheduled, and up to 50 participants (adults only) are allowed to sign up in advance–online or in the studio. For every person that signs up for the class and pays the $55 fee, five dollars is set aside for the Animal Society. At the end of the year, Bottles ‘n Brushes will present the shelter with a check in the amount of the total collected donations.

As the class nears each month, a team member at the Animal Society selects a loveable dog from the shelter’s current residents, usually one who has been on the adoption floor for some time or is in need of a little extra attention. She sends a photo of the pup to Bottles ‘n Brushes in Summerville, along with a short biography detailing the dog’s background and temperament. The shelter posts about the upcoming class on their Facebook page, drawing interest from their animal-loving fanbase.

Meanwhile, the attendees send in photos of their own pets, which can also include fish, reptiles, farm animals and cats. A day or so before the session, the staff crops, edits and prints a light version onto a special paper, which then gets adhered onto a canvas.

An example of a finished piece

SOUTHERNSPOTLIGHT Bottles ‘n Brushes (Art)

Adoptable Art

Two local organizations team up to combine fine art for a fine cause / by Jana Riley Bottles ‘n Brushes, Summerville’s wine-and-design artistic mecca, has made quite a colorful splash since opening its doors at 120 North Main Street two years ago. Offering nightly painting sessions, with BYOB and on-site drink options, artists of any skill level can try their hand at being a momentary Michelangelo. Recently, the shop has had an even greater impact, thanks to a creative collaboration with the Charleston Animal Society.

Alyssa Maute, Director of Communications and Operations at Bottles ‘n Brushes, is the brains behind the unique partnership.

“We have a class called ‘My Best Friend,’ she explains. “People come in and paint pictures of their pets–we provide the paint, canvas, and teach them the techniques. It’s a popular class, comprised of animal lovers, so it made perfect sense to work with the Charleston Animal Society.”

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Upon arriving to the “My Best Friend” class, the students find their canvases waiting for them, prepared with their pet’s image and a tray of customized colored paint corresponding with the original photo. The class begins with a brief introduction from the instructor, who then shares the story of the adoptable dog she is painting that night. All of the lessons taught that evening are shown on the instructor’s canvas, bringing attention to the home-seeking canine.

“It’s exciting to share the stories and background of these dogs with the attendees,” Alyssa shares. We’re talking to a room of people who love animals, what better audience is there for that? We’ve found that they are more likely to share it with their friends as well.”

Within the three-hour time frame, the painters learn highlighting and lowlighting techniques, choose their background colors, and stencil a word, name or phrase on the canvas. The finished products can be taken home that night, ready to be hung in the pet lover’s home.

Afterward, Bottles ‘n Brushes posts a photo of the instructor’s completed work on their Facebook page, sharing the dog and its story with their followers. The painting then makes its way over to the Animal Society at 2455 Remount Road in North Charleston, where it draws more attention to the adoptable dog. With just a few brush strokes and a little extra attention, a once looked-over shelter dog becomes somewhat of a local celebrity. As it turns out, being a local celebrity works out quite well for these pups. Usually, they get adopted within the weekend by a family who has taken notice of the efforts of the two organizations. The new family takes home the painting free of charge.

“The coolest part of all of this is getting that painting back and hanging it on the dog’s cage,” relates Kay Hyman, Director of Community Engagement at the Animal Society. “It shows potential new owners that we all went the extra mile for the little guy, and people are immediately drawn to the cage with the painting.”

So far, every dog featured in the program has been adopted. Every story is unique and heartwarming in its own way, but a few of the tales still stick with some of the Bottles ‘n Brushes team. Perhaps the most memorable story for the staff was Ralph, a stray found in Mount Pleasant with a brown leather collar, trailing a heavy chain and padlock behind him.

The Animal Society staff fell in love with the two-year-old playful dog, entertaining him daily with his favorite games of chase and keep-away.

But even after being brought to the shelter in December, the lab mix was still waiting for a family to fall in love with him in late February.

“After we featured him at our “My Best Friend” night, he was adopted very quickly,” Alyssa smiles. “From what I hear, he just loves his new family,” The Charleston Animal Society seems to be the perfect fit for this sort of caring, forward-thinking approach to the needs of the animals of the Lowcountry. The shelter offers fee-waived adoptions for cats over one year old, and just finished a “Petunia Program” promotion, where they facilitated pit bull adoptions for just $5. They offer free spay and neutering services for the pets of North Charleston residents, and at an extremely low cost for everyone else. The shelter has also created a pet food bank for needy families and instituted a “lost and found” program, where they help reunite pets with their owners using their website and social media.

“We saved over 6500 animals last year,” Kay Hyman says with pride.

“That’s more than all of the other local shelters and rescues combined.

We have assembled a team of staff, volunteers and board members dedicated to the mission of saving lives. We have to get creative if we want to find homes for each adoptable pet.”

Hyman is ecstatic about the work Bottles ‘n Brushes is doing to help the adoptable pets.

“Businesses do work with non-profits because they care–which is fantastic. But when you work together and cross-promote like we do on our social media sites and here in the shelter, it is mutually beneficial.

The more we can share what Bottles ‘n Brushes is doing to help the animals get adopted, the more interest in their classes grows, which in turn generates more interest in the adoptable pets. It’s really a great way to work together.”

Both Alyssa Maute and Bottles ‘n Brushes owner Julia Allen agreed that their collaboration with the shelter has exceeded their expectations.

“The whole partnership has been really amazing,” says Allen. “We’re really happy we can do our part to help these dogs get adopted.”

Paint and puppies do not seem like they would mesh well, but thanks to the creative minds at Bottles ‘n Brushes and the Charleston Animal Society, the fusion works–and to the benefit of everyone and every pup involved. AM If you are interested in attending a “My Best Friend” class, visit the studio in person at 120 North Main Street in Summerville, or online at www.bottlesnbrushes.com.

Consider fostering or adopting a pet from the Charleston Animal Society, which is located at 2455 Remount Road in North Charleston. Adoptable pets can be viewed online at www.charlestonanimalsociety.org.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Road Trip: Blackville, SC A “Drive Through” Town Becomes A Destination

“This is THE best bread I have ever tasted,” my husband declared.

I smiled in agreement, slicing off a second piece from the soft, homemade loaf. The butternut bread, topped with a sweet, sticky glaze, was just one treasure I brought back from my father-daughter day trip to Blackville, South Carolina that Friday.

“How can bread taste this good?” he wondered aloud as he devoured the next piece. “What is their secret?”

Whatever it is, the secret ingredients of the phenomenal bread are just a few of many mysteries that the town of Blackville holds. Just an hour and a half drive west from Summerville, the hamlet of 2,406 residents doesn’t seem like much while passing through, but quick jaunts off the main drag offer more than enough to satisfy a curious soul.

Most notable of the attractions is an artesian well, dubbed “God’s Acre Healing Springs,” located in a dewey grove that seems to be

/ by Jana Riley

miles from any sort of civilization. The springs garnered their reputation during the Revolutionary War, after four wounded Tories and two comrades were sent inland by General Banastre Tarleton, who expected them to perish within days. They happened upon Native Americans, who took them to their sacred springs and encouraged the dying soldiers to drink. Six months later, the men reappeared in Charleston, in perfect health, to the astonishment of all who had seen their injuries. Native Indian tribes claimed ownership of the springs until they were sold to Nathaniel Walker for a cache of corn.

After many years, the site was purchased by L. P. “Lute” Boylston, who deeded the land to his lord when he died in 1944, in an effort to ensure that the water from the spring would always be free for anyone to drink.

On a warm day in April, we saw just two other visitors, filling a dozen or so gallon jugs with the crystal clear water that steadily flowed from small pipes. Focused, the couple seemed to be going through familiar motions, and had a solemn air about them when entering the space.

Flanking the moss-covered covert were a few signs that detailed the

P HOTOS BY ROBERT DEVE R E A U X AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN

history of the springs, sharing the curious fact that the current legal owner of the land is “God Almighty,” in a nod to L.P. Boylston’s last wishes. Today, visitors flock to the lush hideaway, enticed by the free, exceptionally clean water. Many come in search of healing for any number of ailments, and proponents swear by the water’s medicinal properties.

Many come in search of healing for any number of ailments, and proponents swear by the water’s medicinal properties.

The springs trickled down from the pipes and into the forest, and for a moment, whispers of wonder could scarcely be heard in the rustling leaves. After carefully filling up a bottle of the pure spring water for myself, my father and I made a stop at a small country store nearby. Lightly creaking floorboards told tales of days past, and the shelves were filled with the sort of bric-a-brac one can only find in the country. Homespun crafts nestled closely with natural remedies and jarred jams, and we were encouraged

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to sample some of the homemade offerings.

After trying the crispy, snack-style dried okra, I swiftly grabbed three bags, along with a few inexpensively-priced children’s books for my young nieces. A bag of large, dried leaves caught my eye, and when I inquired, the shopkeeper informed me of its medicinal usage as an effective burn treatment. At 45 cents, my curiosity was piqued, and asked him to throw them in with the rest of my loot. As he rang up my purchases, he explained to me that an Amish man initially discovered the remedy, and shared that the town of Blackville is home to a small population of Mennonites, who are similar to the Amish in many ways. As we followed signs to a pick-your-own strawberry field, we noticed a few of the congregation members, most recognizable by their simplified dress. Later, I would learn that many other locals consider the Mennonites a presence to be quite proud

The essence of southern food wafted from the front door as we walked in, and though we arrived minutes before they opened for lunch at eleven, there were already a number of people in line ahead of us. Fried chicken, greens, potatoes, cornbread, casseroles, and a host of other options beckoned from the cafeteriastyle line, while signs advertising various fresh pies and baked goods hung behind the register. After we devoured BLACKVILLE the flavorful meal, we Opposite: Tapped spring walked over to the atwater This Page: Local signs ad cultural color tached antiques store, to the community a hodgepodge sort of place selling everything from furniture, vintage tools, and artwork to books, sewing machines, and toys–and everything in between.

A display case held the freshest of the bakery’s offerings, and I had to remind myself to only

buy as much as we could eat–a difficult task given the delectable inventory.

As we exited the eatery, I paused to take one last look at Blackville. As my eyes passed over residents walking, I caught their smiles and brief waves, a “down south” friendliness familiar as a southern evening but never ceasing to bring joy to my heart. I waved back, and my dad and I began the drive home. A beautiful old hotel, intriguingly overgrown with ivy, wished us farewell, and as a train rumbled by, I knew that my path would cross over Blackville again. AM

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of in their town, and many regaled me with tales of their impeccable craftsmanship and culinary skills. More than once, it was suggested that we make a stop by Mennoniteowned Miller’s Bread Basket and Bakery for a delicious lunch. After filling up a gallon bucket of fresh strawberries for seven dollars at a Blackville strawberry patch, we obliged, and headed over to the restaurant.

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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PATCH WORK OF THE SOUTH

Seated In High Places Stolen Moments In The Arms Of A Live Oak / by Michelle Lewis Stretching from tiptoes to fingertips, I reach up for the stick. Filigreed sunspots adorn the forest Rotten, it breaks off in my hand the instant I put weight on it. skin and the perfume of honeysuckle Now, the only option left is the bouncy vine. I don’t fully trust permeates the salubrious atmosphere. it, but I give it a shot anyway.

Mother Nature is very much a woman Holding my breath, I pull, hand over hand, until I have lifted indeed. myself from the ground. When I reach my perch, I drape my form lengthwise against the tree branch, a leg hanging from I note the thread of sugar ants marching each side to give me a touch of balance. next to me. I take great care not to harm a single one of the tiny creatures.

It wasn’t nearly as grueling as I anticipated. What made me think I convince myself that I succeed in the I was too old to climb a tree? Are we ever too old for anything? endeavor.

Mother Nature is very much a woman indeed.

From my new vantage point, I look down on the woods. I hope it’s the truth.

ILLUS TR AT ION BY KEVIN M O R R I S S E Y AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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PATCH WORK OF THE SOUTH

I spy a frayed spiderweb. Did I do that?!

Frightened, I shake out my hair, hoping to dislodge any hitchhikers I may have inadvertently picked up. Then, content that I’m safe from spider fangs, I settle back, allowing the bough to cradle me. I’m surprised to discover the juxtaposition of excitement and peace still lie in the top of a tree. Even after all these years.

A bit of color peeks through the shadows.

My house. But I refuse to think of the children just yet...

The jewel tones lend credence to the notion that simplicity and splendor can co-exist.

The breeze sings to me a lullaby, replete with a sparrow’s solo. And I feel, for just a moment, that I have somehow managed to hide from the overbearing hands of time.

Logic evaporates and I am left with abundant space for ridiculous dreams. I imagine myself replacing the lawn with the lush

velvet moss I see tucked in a damp crevice below. The jewel tones lend credence to the notion that simplicity and splendor can co-exist.

In the distance, a foreboding whine seeks a target. Mosquitoes soon enjoy my company.

They seem to think me a gracious host. I tough it out, for I find it a small price to pay. But then, more insidious than thirsty insects, is the vision of my children with hands in the food canister, their cheeks giving new meaning to the term ‘sugarplums.’

I swing my feet over, dangle...and drop. When I reach the edge of the yard I turn back, seeking my tree. Goodbye friend.

Maybe tomorrow I’ll climb two. AM

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The true work of art is but a shadow of the divine perfection .

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This world is but a canvas to our imagination .

- Henry David Thoreau

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THE LITERARY NOTE

Turtle Summer

Author recounts life lessons learned as a local “turtle lady” / by Mary Alice Monroe Every spring the sea turtles begin their long journey home to begin a new nesting season along the southeastern coast of the United States.

Florida attracts by far the greatest number of sea turtles, estimated at 50,000 a season, primarily the loggerheads and leatherbacks. In South Carolina, there are approximately 300 kilometers of ocean facing sandy beaches and this is home to caretta caretta, the loggerhead, named for the large size of its head relative to other turtles. However, green, leatherback, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtle nests have also been recorded on our beaches.

In April, migrating loggerheads gather in the swells off our coastline to breed and forage. Mating is a tempestuous affair during which the male fertilizes all the eggs–some seven hundred–which the female will lay in the upcoming season. After mating, the male swims off and the female remains offshore while her eggs develop. Only the solitary female will venture again onto the beach of her birth.

My turtle summer begins sometime in mid-May. This is when the first nests appear on South Carolina beaches. Every morning I gaze out at the sea with anticipation. My back pack is filled with supplies, my probe stick is ready, and I’ve gathered my team T-shirts and cap.

My fellow turtle team friends and I like to bet when we’ll get our first turtle nest on Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island. I remember the year I discovered our first nest on May 25–my birthday! I found fifty-one eggs in the nest–my age! This year the ocean waters are warmer than usual so the odds are in favor of an early May nest.

In the sea, buoyant loggerheads are excellent and graceful swimmers.

When she crawls ashore, however, she faces the burden of gravity on her 350 plus pound shell. She is slow and cumbersome, thus vulnerable. Under the cloak of darkness, the loggerhead pauses at the shoreline to scan the beach. This is an important point of de-

ILLUSTR AT ION BY KEVIN M O R R I S S E Y AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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THE Y R LITERTAE NO

cision for the defenseless turtle. If she sees a bright light or strange movement, she will turn back into the safety of the ocean. She might try again at another location or wait until another night.

Once the loggerhead makes the decision to come ashore, she plows in the sand in a tank-like crawl to a spot high on the dunes, stopping to rest several times along the way.

Whenever I’ve witnessed her struggle I’m impressed with the commitment and determination of the sea turtle to face all the dangers of a relatively unknown world to claw her way to a safe spot to deliver her eggs. I also appreciate the power of 180 million years of instinct at work.

When the turtle chooses a location, she begins the long ritual of nesting. First she digs. Using her rear flippers, she laboriously scoops out cupfuls of sand until she reaches a depth of approximately twenty inches. After a short pause, she lays her eggs. We used to believe the female went into a trance at this point. Though not true, once she begins laying she is unlikely to stop. One after another, the loggerhead drops some 60 to 150 soft eggs into the nest. Yes, they really do look just like ping pong balls. Thick tears flow from her eyes while she labors. Science has revealed that this is a salt water cleansing of the eye. When I see it, however, I can’t help but feel akin to a fellow feminine creature fulfilling her destiny to give life.

After the turtle lays her last egg, she uses her rear flippers again to top off the nest with sand. Next she’ll tamp down the sand with her shell, then using her front flippers, will spray sand in all directions in an effort to camouflage her treasures against predators. When she is satisfied, the loggerhead must begin the long crawl back to the sea, never to return to the nest. She will wait several weeks before coming ashore to nest again. One loggerhead will lay three to five clutches a season, then not nest again for two or three years.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has been monitoring the state’s nests since the late 1970’s. I’ve been a member of the Isle of Palms Turtle Team since 1999. My experiences inspired my novel, The Beach House, in 2002. The foundation of the sea turtle hospital at the SC Aquarium inspired the sequel, Swimming Lessons. And now, ten years later, my novel, Beach House Memories, the prequel of the series, returns to the early 1970s when the islands were wild and only a few dedicated women fought to protect the sea turtles.

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I wanted to share with my readers the inspiration I’ve felt from being a “turtle lady” all these years, and the life lessons the sea turtles have taught me. I’ve formed friendships with my colleagues that will last a lifetime. In fact, whenever I meet a fellow sea turtle volunteer anywhere along the southeastern coast, we immediately feel a strong camaraderie.

The sea turtle volunteers begin patrolling the beaches in mid-May when the first nests are laid. Each morning we walk the assigned section of beach on the TURTLE SUMMER lookout for any loggerTurtle eggs, newly hatched head tracks that scar the turtles make their way to the shore Images by smooth sand from the Barbara Bergwerf sea up to the low rise of dunes. Volunteers report turtle tracks to the team leader before seven am so that the team members licensed by SCDNR can locate the nest before foot traffic obscures all signs or the sun gets too hot to move the eggs. To the inexperienced eye, turtle tracks look suspiciously like tractor tire tracks!

When tracks are reported by volunteers, the team dashes to the site, excitement thrumming in our veins. If the nest is located in a safe spot above the spring tide line, we simply mark it with the orange sign that indicates the nest is protected by federal law. Loggerheads are a threatened species and any tampering with nests eggs, or turtles carries a significant penalty and fine. If the nest lays where the eggs might be crushed by foot, bicycle traffic, or dogs, or if it is below the tide line where it can be washed over repeatedly by the ocean, the Turtle Team will relocate the nest to a suitable spot high on the dunes.

“...the Turtle Team will relocate the nest to a suitable spot high on the dunes...”

There are seven of us on our core team and we take turns probing the nest to find the eggs. The probe is a narrow metal stick that we carefully, methodically, pry into the sand. We take the job seriously.

First we discuss the field signs, such as broken vegetation, thrown sand, and the incoming path of the turtle, to surmise the most likely location of the eggs. This method is so efficient we often locate the eggs in a few probes. The key is to bend at the knees, rather like a plié in ballet, to keep the weight balanced. The sand has a firm base.

When we find the nest, however, the sand is soft and gives way in a sudden drop. It’s unmistakable! Once we feel a drop or change

” e l l i v r e m m u S “ d e l l a c t o n It’s in “The Ville.” re e h l ia c e sp is r e m Sum

. for nothing

Gahagan Park. Then on with music, food and fireworks at 4th y Jul y hda birt on’s nati s of Summer villians In July we will celebrate our ille Night at The Joe” and thousand erv mm Su “ have will we pen re-o ols five local leagues.

August 18 before scho Augusta. Ticket sales will benefit es and to see the RiverDogs play iviti fest e gam prefor er gath will Community spirit is alive and well

in Summer ville!

er Events during the Summ

of 2012:

17 ays, through November Farmer’s Market – Saturd Hutchinson Square een – July 1 from 5-8 on Gr the on e Blu and e, Red, W hit 4 s at Gahagan Park – July Music, Food, and Firework The Joe” – August 18th Summerville Night at “

THE Y R LITERTAE NO

Discount

in the sand, we abandon the probe and dig with our hands to locate the eggs. It’s an efficient system. In eleven years probing for thousands of eggs, I’ve never broken a single egg. The call “I found eggs!" is always met with cheers.

Without Discount

The eggs incubate in the sand for 42-75 days.

Sea turtles are reptiles and while incubating in the sand, the sex of the turtle is determined. Warmer sand produces females and cooler sands males. Or as we like to say, “Hot chicks and cool dudes.”

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Early in July, the first nests begin to hatch along our coast. This means in addition to our early morning track/nest checks, we also begin sitting at the nests at night like midwives. Nights along the ocean can be breathtakingly beautiful. Often, the Carolina moon shines bright among a sky littered with stars. Occasionally, clouds hover along the distant horizon and provide a spectacular lightning show. By the end of summer, however, we usually huddle together swatting mosquitoes and the dreaded noseeums while passing around bottles of repellant and stories. In my novels I often write about the unique friendships forged by women who gather, whether as turtle ladies, quilters, book clubs, etc. Whether it stems from the long ago days of hunters and gatherers when women stayed home to cook and mind the children and aged, or whether we carry this on our X chromosome, this sharing of information and support is critical to our well-being. So each night under a Carolina moon, we gather and talk while waiting for the sand to shift.

Sometimes, no matter how late we wait at the nest, the baby turtles will emerge after everyone has left. The following morning we check the nest early to find dozens of tiny tracks coming from the nest and heading toward the sea. Those wily turtles!

Hatchlings usually emerge from the nest at night when the sand is cool. Sometimes, they emerge in dribs and drabs over a couple of days. But when they tumble out over each

other in a mass exodus, we call it a boil because it resembles a pot boiling over. It’s always a marvelous sight! The minutes spent dashing from the nest to the sea are very dangerous in a turtle’s life. Ghost crabs skitter across the beach to attack the hatchlings.

Gulls gobble them in the morning. Only one in a thousand hatchlings may survive to maturity. When nests hatch, the Turtle Team helps onlookers enjoy the sight while guiding them not to touch the hatchlings, use flashlights or do anything to impede the turtles’ natural progress to the sea.

These tender, three-inch babies are prey to several predators as they make the perilous journey across the beach to their home in the sea. Even more of a worry, however, is the problem of lights shining from houses, restaurants and hotels along the beach. Instinct guides the hatchlings toward the brightest light, which in nature is the natural light of the ocean. The bright, artificial lights from houses, streetlights and flashlights confuse them and lead them in the wrong direction away from the sea. When this occurs, the hatchlings will surely die from being run over by cars, eaten by predators or dehydration.

Remember–lights out for turtles!

A long journey begins!

Once the hatchling reaches the sea, instinct prompts a swimming frenzy. The hatchling will swim non-stop for three days to the Gulf Stream. There, hatchlings hide among the relative safety of enormous floating beds of sargassum weed and flotsam. It takes 25 to 30 years for a loggerhead to mature. By the time an adult loggerhead returns to our beaches, she will have grown from three inches to over three feet and up to 350 pounds! It is suspected loggerheads live to 100 years, but no one knows for certain. Turtles have existed for millions of years. Only time will tell if the efforts of volunteers, professionals and concerned citizens will save the loggerheads from extinction. AM

one night - your masterpiece

GRAND OPENING! We are pleased to announce that Bottles ‘n Brushes is coming to West Ashley! It’s the same great paintings, artists and experience in a new location.

Please visit our website to view our monthly calendar for both locations.

Summerville - 120 North Main Street p. 843.419.6077 West Ashley - 1017 Wappoo Road p. 843.277.2807 www.bottlesnbrushes.com

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

SOCIAL GRACES

Répondez s’il vous plaît (RSVP)

The Lost Art Of Saying Yes Or No / by Elizabeth Donehue

You are surely familiar with the acronym “RSVP.” This collection of letters is typically found at the bottom of a written invitation. It derives from the French “répondez s’il vous plait,” which means, “please reply.” These four letters are the signal that your host wants to know if you will be attending his or her event.

Ask any event planner, fundraiser, bride, or party-thrower and they will tell you how critical it is to know whether or not you are attending. Planning accordingly for all aspects of the party–seating, food and drink, favors when appropriate, the host simply wants everyone to feel at home, and have a good time. All that is required is that you respond as to whether you will be attending or not.

ILLUS TRAT ION BY WIL L RI Z Z O

...you are demanding an action that Americans no longer practice.

SOCIAELS GRAC

These days, the RSVP seems to be a lost, or at least, a dying art. In the past, when invitations were issued for a social event, hosts (and hostesses) received prompt responses from guests as to whether or not they would attend. People have become apathetic when it comes to confirm-

With convenient resources like Facebook, Twitter, and email at our fingertips one would think it easier than ever to effectively communicate a reply. ing or declining invitations. The RSVP seemingly rubs against the grain of contemporary life. By asking someone to commit to a plan in the distant future, you are demanding an action that Americans no longer practice. We like to remain flexible, solidifying plans incrementally as the date approaches; perhaps even holding out for a better offer.

With convenient resources like Facebook, Twitter and email at our fingertips one would think it easier than ever to effectively communicate a reply. This beckons

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AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

the question, what is preventing us from executing this basic social task? Are our lives so busy, so overbooked, and so overwhelmed? As Gertrude Stein said, “everybody gets so much information all day long that they lose their common sense.” Regardless of how inundated we are with information on a daily basis, an RSVP is a simple task that only requires a “yes” or a “no.”

Here are some tips for sending an RSVP in the age of information overload:

WHEN TO RESPOND

Generally it is best to reply as soon as possible. Ideally, one should reply upon receipt of an invitation. Once you check your calendar, respond! This affords the planner ample time to accommodate guests.

HOW TO RESPOND

In responding to invitations, you should reply in the style of the invitation. If you received your invitation by e-mail, then a response by e-mail is acceptable.

If a response card or phone number is included, respond accordingly.

KEEP REPLIES BRIEF

There is no need to go into great detail if you must decline the invitation. Write a simple and polite note of regret.

FOLLOW THROUGH

Once a proper response has been made, follow through as stated. Indicating that you will attend means… you will attend. Last-minute cancellations have become rampant but that does not make them any less rude. If an emergency arises, immediately advise the host of your change of plans and express your regrets.

A party is a gift; an invitation is a gift, and it is polite to respond. Whether the response is sent via phone, e-mail, response card or carrier pigeon, the bottom line is, yes or no just say so! AM

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TASTE Food With Soul

Meme’s Gooey Butter Cake

Three truly Southern recipes that are good for the soul Recipes by Rodessa "Meme" Scoggins

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

45

MeMe’s Gooey Butter Cake CAKE: 1 Box Yellow Cake Mix 1 Egg 1 Stick of softened butter

TOPPING: 8 oz Cream cheese, softened 1 Box powdered sugar 2 Eggs

- Mix cake ingredients and pat into a greased 13 x 9 in pan - Mix topping ingredients and pour over cake - Bake 40 minutes at 350 degrees

Meme’s Broccoli and Cheese

MeMe’s Brunch Eggs

1 box chopped broccoli 1 large onion 14 oz box of minute rice 1 jar of Cheese Whiz

10 slices of bread 2 cups cheddar cheese 10 eggs 3 1/4 cups milk 1 lb of sausage or bacon 1/4 teaspoon salt

1 can of cream of celery soup 1/2 stick of butter 1/2 teaspoon of salt pinch of black pepper

Chop the onion down real fine.

Mix ingredients in a large mixing bowl and pour into a casserole dish.

Bake for 35 minutes uncovered at 350 degrees or until golden brown.

MEET THE CHEF Name: Rodessa "Meme" Scoggins Restaurant: Meme's Soul Food Kitchen On the Menu: Daily selections of Southern soul food (see menu on ) Meme's Soul Food Kitchen 903 Central Ave., Summerville (843) 871-5650

The night before, break up 10 bread slices and cover the bottom of a 9 x 13 casserole dish with the pieces.

Spread grated cheddar cheese over the bread.

Whip the eggs, milk and salt together and pour over bread.

Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, cook either sausage or bacon.

Crumble over top. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 1 hour.

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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LIFE & FAITH

Life Is A Marathon Finding Success In The Race Of Life

Getting old sucks, but it is unavoidable.

Last year, my board of elders required me to get a health physical.

I wasn’t sleeping at night, fat was building around my midsection, and I was becoming increasingly unable to deal with the stress in my life. Following a comprehensive physical, my doctor told me, “Will, you need to start exercising again. I would suggest running 3-4 times a week.” As a former athlete who thrives in competitive situations, the idea of putting one foot in front of another, ILLUS TRAT ION BY KEVIN MO R R I S S E Y 48

AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

/ by Will Browning

mile after mile, did not sound exciting to me. Little did I know, I was about to go through a transformation that packed surprising lessons at every turn.

Needing a goal to keep me motivated, I signed up for a half-marathon–a slightly outlandish goal for a non-runner. The 13.1 miles of a half-marathon stood before me as a considerable physical challenge, but I soon learned what every runner learns: endurance running is much more mental than it is physical. The prepara-

tion that brought me to the starting line taught me at least four life principles that I believe are worth sharing.

IF YOU FAIL TO PLAN, PLAN TO FAIL Most people are stuck in their personal development because they have no semblance of a plan. While a plan is not the golden key to success, it is a good first step. A good plan has incremental goals that move the individual toward the ultimate goal. Success for a novice endurance runner is found in setting a series of challenging, yet attainable goals.

Many people sabotage themselves by setting unattainable goals that produce frustration, which leads to feelings of defeat. The defeated person will soon quit.

Many people sabotage themselves by setting unattainable goals.

PARTNERSHIP + ACCOUNTABILITY = HIGHEST ACHIEVEMENT Part of the preparation for a long-distance run is to get your miles up. To keep my training from interfering with my workweek, I chose to make my long runs on Saturday mornings. When my alarm clock sounded just before dawn and I had to leave my family snuggled up in their beds, I found there was another necessity to success: partnership. Scheduling someone to run with me was the dif-

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Trust prompted my fa mily to make two 8-hour trips from F lorida for Dr. Martin to deliver both of my daughters.

Should we be blessed with another pregnancy, our family will be making plans for another trip to Charleston to see Dr. Martin.

I have complete confidence in him and feel like his work is more than a job; it is a calling.

We absolutely trust him with our lives.

-Clary Vance

843.572.7123 • www.jmartinmd.com 9213-A University Boulevard • North Charleston, SC 29406

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LIFE & FAITH

ference between achievement and failure.

I could not have accomplished my goals without partnership and accountability.

This formula brought an unexpected gift: these partnerships produced enduring friends. Ask a silver-anniversary couple, an athletic coach, or a war veteran, and they will all tell you that shared struggles are fertilizer to enduring friendships.

FUELING YOURSELF MATTERS I arrived in my current situation because I did not care what I put in my body. “Sir, do you want to super-size that?” I would always say, “Sure, why not?” There have been few meals that I’ve missed in my lifetime, but if I ever did miss a meal, it was likely breakfast. I would frequently trade a healthy breakfast for the extra nine minutes of rest that the snooze button offered.

The quality of what you put in will dictate the quality of your performance.

Those types of “small” decisions will kill your growth as a runner. Your success in pushing your body to its maximum potential will only come if you fuel it properly. The quality of what you put in will dictate the quality of your performance. The same is true in life. Our decisions are fueling our direction. Our life destination is simply the product

975 Bacons Bridge Road (Summerville Galleria, by BI-LO) / 843-419-6430 50

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of these decisions. What we are being fueled with will dictate our destination.

EVERYTHING WORTH ACCOMPLISHING REQUIRES SACRIFICE “No pain, no gain.” It’s true, and if that scares you, then don’t fool yourself into believing that you will truly accomplish great things in your life. The night before I ran my half-marathon, an experienced runner told me, “Will, this is a dirty sport. Tomorrow you may see some gross things. Men bleeding from their nipples and people vomiting from exhaustion will remind you how hard this goal is to accomplish.” He was right. The pain I felt in my legs as I crossed the finish line was only surpassed by my overwhelming feeling of achievement. All great moments require sacrifice. Raising children, having a great marriage, even having a relationship with God–each requires us to make continual sacrifices.

The writer of Hebrews said, “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1a-2 ESV) I am now training for a full marathon– 26.2 miles! When I told my wife of my new goal she just said, “You’re crazy.”

Some of my friends have asked me, “Why a marathon? Is it for your health?” No, it’s more than that. I’m making this journey because on this long road of perseverance, I find God perfecting me, helping me become the man He intends me to become. AM

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Summerville Art Walk Third Thursdays June-Oct. 5pm - 8pm LOCAL ARTISTS & FINE CRAFTS LIVE ENTERTAINMENT MERCHANTS OPEN LATE

130 Central Ave. 843.871.0297 www.artcgalleryltd.com HOURS Mon. - Sat. 10am - 5pm Open until 8pm on Third Thursdays A gallery of fine art and crafts all made by local artists. Located in Historic Downtown Summerville.

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AUDIE & MARK

The Making Of A Southern Wedding

Audie and Mark met and started dating while working for attorney general Henry McMaster. They fell in love touring the back roads of Columbia in Audie’s white jeep. In May of 2011, while on one of their storied “white jeeping” trips, Mark asked Audie to be his wife. Fast forward one year and a host of guests gathered to celebrate a love story culminated by marriage.

Photos by

Chris Isham, Dottie Langley Rizzo and Taylor Rizzo

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DAY 1 BBQ at the Bar

DAY 2 Bridal Luncheon at the B&B

The festivities began with a casual BBQ at O’Lacy’s Pub which offered guests a relaxed atmosphere to gather with old friends and make new ones. The menu included smoked brisket, plenty of sliced white bread and homemade whoopie pies.

In the garden at Linwood Bed & Breakfast, the bridal luncheon was filled with color and whimsy as attendees ambled through the garden wearing fabulous hats or fascinators. Each bridesmaid was given colorful cowboy boots for their participation in the wedding.

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DAY 3 The Ceremony The traditional ceremony was held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church amidst a host of guests. The couple was wed by Reverend Sam Candler, the bride’s godfather.

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DAY 3 Party Prep The reception celebration was designed by event planner Beth Huggins of Elizabeth Huggins & Co. With the hues of a peacock feather as her inspiration, Huggins set out to create a memorable evening that guests would remember for years to come.

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DAY 3 The Reception The reception had the look and feel of old Hollywood set in the Deep South. Candle lanterns hung from the branches of large oak trees, illuminating the plush lounge areas placed throughout the grounds.

The guests ate, drank and danced into the evening.

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Sonja St. John

Story by

Jana Riley Photos by Dottie Langley Rizzo

IN OUR EVER-CHANGING WORLD, IT OFTEN SEEMS THAT PROGRESS, ADVANCEMENT AND INNOVATION ARE SIMPLY INEVITABLE FACTS OF LIFE. Our fast-moving global economy and digital lifestyle translate to a harriedness that is felt in nearly every industry and city across America. Somehow, Charleston has maintained a sense of oldworld charm, encouraging its residents and visitors to slow down and “sit for a spell.” It seems fitting, then, that Sonja St. John, a 28-year-old, Wisconsin-born artist practicing a centuries-old craft, would find her place here.

I wasn’t sure what to expect the day I was to meet Sonja St. John, violin maker extraordinaire. Even though she is a mere three years older than I, I was beyond intimidated at the prospect of meeting her. I knew virtually nothing about violins; I am quite possibly musically inept, and from what I read on her website, she is light years ahead of me in terms of mid-twenties accomplishments. Still, I gathered my courage and headed to her studio off highway 61, armed with a heavy amount of research and an open mind to the mysterious world of violin making.

Stepping into her airy workshop, I tried to take in this unfamiliar creative form in all of its glory. Hardwood floors laid the groundwork for the impressive wood shop, while above, fifteen violins, in various stages of repair, hung from gold and silver beams. The smells of burning incense and fresh wood shavings mingled together, giving a decidedly earthy aroma to the already nature-inspired workspace. In one corner, stacks of violin cases covered the floor: hard and soft, shiny and tattered. Workbenches lined every wall, and everywhere, there were tools. Carving tools, smoothing tools, painting tools, tuning tools - in bins, drawers, cups and trays.

Sonja smiled when explaining the excess. “I learned how to make violins the world’s longest way–starting with how to use and maintain hand tools. I’ve collected and refurbished quite a few, usually from antique stores and such.”

“I like to expose the violin to all sorts of music,...that way, it won’t turn its nose up to anything in its musical future.”

St. John’s home is nestled in a grove of trees, shading her detached studio and providing an incredibly fitting backdrop for her woodbased craft. As we climbed the stairs to her studio, I was struck by the natural beauty of the place: birds chirped, squirrels skittered, the sun streamed through the forest, and a light breeze rustled the leaves. Sonja met us at the steps of her shop with a warm smile and handshakes for all. Clad in bright green pants, work boots and a button-down, Sonja embodied a confident, laid-back calmness that made me feel at ease almost instantly.

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Listening to Sonja talk about her craft, it became clear that her interest has spanned a number of years–two decades, to be exact. At eight years old, Sonja noticed an antique child’s violin in a friend’s home and instantly fell in love with the instrument. The friend saw practicing violin as her daily chore, and could not understand the fascination Sonja had with the piece, but Sonja was smitten. With no prior experience, young St. John felt an understanding with the instrument as soon as she attempted to play it. “It just made sense

to me,” she reminisced. After a time, the friend teasingly began to question if Sonja was coming by to play with her or her violin–and Sonja promptly asked her mother if she could rent her own. Her mother obliged, and thus began Sonja’s creative and musical journey.

For years, Sonja studied, practiced and played the violin. She performed in orchestras regularly until she realized that she enjoyed being behind a workbench instead of on stage. So, at fifteen, Sonja began working as a technician in the very same shop that supplied her first violin. While many of her peers spent their nights, weekends and summers practicing less laborious tasks, St. John spent nearly all of her free time repairing violins, violas, cellos and bass instruments and honing her skills.

As the years progressed, Sonja apprenticed and observed countless violin masters and luthiers, eventually landing in Chicago, Illinois, where she spent three years at the Chicago School of Violin Making. An extremely focused, labor-intensive curriculum assisted Sonja in perfecting her skills, and she graduated armed with a near encyclopedic knowledge of the history and artistry of violins and their creation.

Sonja’s travels soon took her to Altus, Oklahoma, where she met her husband, Adam, a C-17 loadmaster for the US Air Force. After they married, Sonja set up a violin shop in Altus, building and repairing violins for local

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musicians and schools. A short time later, Adam’s career led the couple to Charleston, where Sonja feels right at home.

“Charleston has an incredible appreciation for the arts,” Sonja explained. “There are tons of programs to support children’s musical interests, and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra is fantastic.”

The location does seem to be a curiously phenomenal fit for Sonja’s artistry. The Lowcountry’s deep historical roots resonate well with such an old-world tradition, and she draws much of her inspiration from her wooded surroundings.

In her Summerville workshop, Sonja does mostly repairs, though she builds custom pieces from time to time as well. Instruments in various stages of distress enter the doors in the hands of their hopeful owners, and with Sonja’s attention, they leave with a bright future ahead of them.

“Sometimes, an instrument is found in an attic somewhere, and it has closed up a bit–it fights being played.

When it gets brought in, I’ll clean, tune and open it up–it’s beautiful to hear the notes emerge from a piece after years of silence.”

The artist is candid about how each piece, especially an instrument she builds from scratch, has a sort of personality to her; based on its lines, curves, weight and sound. As she explained her passion, Sonja detailed the connection she feels with each piece.

“It’s inspiring to think about the journey the instrument will take once it leaves my shop. I’m always happy to see a piece go off into the world with an enthusiastic player, and when it comes back for repairs or a tune-up, it’s like, ‘I remember

you! We stared at each other for quite a while back in the day!' ” A light breeze moved softly through the shop and the hollow recesses of the instruments within, and a quiet melody could be heard as the wind passed through their chambers. As it settled, we heard recorded music humming from a speaker setup.

“I like to expose the violin to all sorts of music,” Sonja said, her blue eyes shining. “That way, it won’t turn its nose up to anything in its musical future.”

When asked what the difference was between a violin and a fiddle, Sonja explained that the terms are essentially synonymous. “It just depends on the sort of music that is being played, but they are the same instrument,” she MAKING MUSIC offered. WhatSt. John at work in her

ever you call it, Summerville Studio the instrument has changed remarkably little since its inception in the early 16th century. One major change was the trade of “gut strings” (made from animal intestines) for nylon, synthetic or steel strings. Additionally, the neck has been lengthened slightly over the years.

“Otherwise,” Sonja mused, “the violin has pretty much stayed the same.”

For Sonja St. John, a deep sense of relevance endures throughout the ever-present landscape of her venerable craft. From the fallen tree to the woodshop, the instrument to the luthier, the horsehair bow to the taut strings, the violinist to the piece, the listener to the symphony, Sonja St. John to Charleston, SC; connection is a note that rings true. AM

For more information about Sonja St. John, visit her website at www.sonjaviolin.com.

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YOUNG SOUTH The

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Above: In the Spring, the Huggins’ yard has a majestic quality.

A mixture of ferns, varieties of azaleas, and wisteria engulf the property.

Opposite: The Huggins love to entertain friends and family. This tremendous circular dining table, in the center of a warm and spacious room, is the perfect environment for hosting a loquacious dinner party.

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A Father and Daughter’s First Bird Hunt

FOR THE BIRDS This Page: Hunters check the sky for fliers Opposite Page: Scenes from the hunt camp

A

few weeks back, a friend invited me to a father-son bird hunt. There was only one problem; he didn’t know my son very well. You see, my seven-year-old is hyper-emotional. He cries every time the SPCA commercial comes on the TV–the one where Sarah McLachlan is narrating over dreary music and sad puppy eyes.

Even though I knew the answer, I asked him anyway. “Do you want to go hunting with daddy?” I inquired in an overly excited tone. The conversation was surprisingly positive until the topic of shooting birds came up. He looked at me with horror on his face, like I deserved to be shot myself. “I am not going to hurt animals,” he said matter-of-factly.

Plan B. My daughter is twelve, and believe me, she is not any less emotional than my son; however, she is old enough to know that I really wanted to go and that I wouldn’t go alone.

“I’ll go with you,” she said, “but I’m not killing anything.”

I didn’t grow up in a family that hunted. My dad was a runner. The only thing that we killed were running shoes. This was not only 82

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my daughter’s first hunt, it was mine as well. This brought about a unique challenge. I wanted to assure her that everything was going to be OK, but I knew that I would have to rely on others when it came to the guns. I had fired a shotgun a few times, but if you were asked me to check if the thing is loaded or not, I would be lost. This was going to be interesting.

The morning of the hunt, we met at a local shopping center parking lot. I saw the group of fathers and sons as soon as we pulled in.

Some of them looked like pros. Head to toe camouflage–why didn’t I think of that? At least I would have looked like I knew what I was doing.

The nerves started to set in. There were going to be lots of guns out there, an environment in which I was not familiar. And I had gotten my daughter involved in this. With my next question, I was about to show my ignorance. “What’s the kill radius of one of these shotguns?” I asked. My friend looked over his shoulder and found a landmark. “See that truck?” he said, pointing to an old pickup not too far away. “Anywhere between you and the tailgate and you’re going to blast ‘em.” OK, now at least I knew how far I needed to keep my daughter from the guns.

GOOD BOY A yellow lab fetching a fallen bird

The caravan of pickups hit the interstate. We drove about half an hour when my daughter felt it was inportant to reiterate she was not going to kill anything. I assured her that I would not press her on the issue. I just wanted her to enjoy the experience.

When we finally arrived at the hunt club, my daughter’s fears finally hit the surface. “I’m scared daddy,” she said with tears in her eyes. “I feel bad for the birds.” I did my best explain the “hunter’s mind-set,” their love for nature and the need for population control.

We gathered with the others that were participating in the hunt, got a quick safety overview and packed up the gear. The short four-wheeler ride to the field helped to calm my daughter’s nerves, but when we came to the clearing, I felt her grip on my shoulders tighten.

We unloaded the guns and were partnered up. I asked the other adult in my group about his hunting experience. He had been hunting many times and knew his way around a gun. This made me feel a little better.

Just as we started looking for the birds, my friend found us. He grabbed my daughter by the arm. “Come on girl,” he said pulling her with him towards the trees, “Let’s shoot a gun.” My daughter looked back at me. “HELP ME,” she mouthed. I walked with them, but I let her go. I wasn’t sure how she would react to her first shot, but I wanted her to do it, and it would be a lot harder for her to tell him no than it would be for her to refuse anything that I suggestred.

When we hit the tree line, he gave her a quick tutorial, handed her the gun and told her to aim for a small tree about twenty yards away. She tucked the butt of the gun tightly into her shoulder, looked down the sight and pulled the trigger. “There you go,” my friend said as he turned and walked back to the field. “Now let’s shoot us a bird.” My daughter looked at me with the gun pointed at the ground like she had been taught to do. A slight grin parted her lips.

Over the course of the day, we got used to gunfire and became more comfortable with the falling birds. My daughter didn't fire at too many of them, but it was a lot more shots than either of us had thought she would have taken.

The hunt was coming to a close. We were at our last blind of the day, and what I heard coming from my daughter’s mouth surprised me. The fearful girl that hours earlier was professing her disdain for shooting any living creature was now griping that she wasn’t seeing any birds. “No birds are coming our way,” she said with frustration in her tone. Just then, a bird flew towards us. I pointed it out and she got her gun ready. As it came into range, she pulled the trigger. The bird floundered and landed at her feet. She looked at me with a huge smile, pride beaming through her body. “You got one,” I said, “Pick it up.” “No,” she said looking at the bird just in front of her. “That’s disgusting.”

Baby steps.

I was proud of her. It’s not that I want my daughter to find joy in killing things or that I care if she becomes an avid hunter or not. She conquered a fear. She tried something new.

As we pulled back on the paved road, to head home, we were quiet. It was a long day and we were both a little tired. “Daddy,” she said staring out the window. “Can we do that again?” AM AZALEAMAG.COM / SUMMER 2012

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NEW YORK CITY LIVING

How one Summerville boy followed his dream all the way to the movies

by Katie Depoppe Photos by Matthew Doble

As a fourth grader at Summerville Catholic, Derek Rozmes was given the assignment to draw flowers from a photograph. “I remember thinking, that turned out pretty well,” he laughs gently. His artistic talent realized, that simple drawing changed the course of his life.

Like most in the millennial generation, Rozmes grew up using computers in school and at home. Coupled with a love of video games and movie special effects like those in the original Jurassic Park that debuted in summer 1993, his interesting pastimes set the stage for his later career as a senior animator for BlueSky Studios—a path that has given him the privilege of creating scenes and characters for Robots,

encouraged him to attend art school.

Ice Age 2: The Meltdown, Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who, Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, Rio and the upcoming Ice Age 4: Continental Drift.

Graphics and Interactive Techniques.) It was there he learned about Ringling College of Art and Design, “the Ivy League of art schools,” according to Barnfield.

A sophomore art class at Summerville High taught Rozmes there was a career possibility in combining all he loved: computer animation.

He took both advanced placement art and portfolio classes as a junior and senior, respectively, from local artist and educator Larry Barnfield.

Along the way, his talent was unmistakable and recognized by teachers and other artists. Seeing his potential, Rozmes’ parents and Barnfield

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“In the summer of 1999, I went to the SIGGRAPH conference for the first time to find out what colleges I needed to apply to and what I needed to study to be in the field,” says Rozmes. (SIGGRAPH is the annual International Conference and Exhibition on Computer

After high school graduation in 2000, following a string of scholarships, academic recognitions and art awards, Rozmes moved to Florida to attend the prestigious institution. “At that time, I didn’t know people specialized in certain areas of animation,” laughs Rozmes. “Lighting, texturing, rigging—all those are specializations.” Rozmes chose to Animation still courtesy of BlueSky Studios, Inc.

BIG SCREEN This Page: Rozmes in his workspace, Opposite: A scene from Ice Age 4: Continental Drift

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focus on the performance of characters in his personal study, culminating in his senior thesis—an original animation of a Shakespearean actor entitled The Burden. “There were lots of all-nighters,” he adds. “I learned the software—the technical stuff—at the same time.”

In 2002, Rozmes attended the SIGGRAPH conference again—this time to find what potential employers were looking for in a new hire.

When impending graduation rolled around in 2004, he began applying to studios. A job offer as a junior animator with Twentieth Century Fox’s BlueSky Studios and a move to the suburbs of New York City later in 2004 set Rozmes on the straight and narrow to making his childhood dream a reality.

In his first project at BlueSky, Rozmes was tasked with animating minor roles and using pre-existing animation to populate shots with background characters. “It’s not a super emotional moment when you watch those scenes,” he adds thoughtfully. As an animator and BIG SCREEN senior animator, one is gradually assigned more Rozmes with a promo prominent or memorable scenes and characters. display for Ice Age 4: Continental Drift “Each movie spends years in pre-production as the stories and character personalities are developed. That’s before they even get to our department, so it’s a tedious process,” says Rozmes.

“Seeing it all come together is neat, though” he adds. To celebrate the occasion, BlueSky rents the Ziegfeld Theatre in Manhattan, one of the last large-scale movie houses in the country (1,131 seats), to watch the premiere.

“It’s different seeing it with the sound mix and the music,” he says. “Usually we show our assigned shots to the director with only our scene and one or two context scenes. With so many shots being worked on throughout the department, it’s easy to overlook some of the animation that’s being done, and it can still come as a surprise during the premiere.”

Prior to the production of Rio, Rozmes was promoted to a senior animator role. What’s next for him? It may be directing. “Being adaptable is the most important thing,” he says. “I’ll be an animator as long as computer animation is around,” he adds smiling.

One thing is for sure, though. Regardless of his title or work load, Rozmes spends more time thoughtfully writing his Mother’s Day and Father’s Day cards these days. “Art school isn’t cheap,” he says. “In addition to being encouraging and supportive of my career goals, I’m thankful that my education was a financial priority for [my parents]. I try to let them know now that I understand what a huge gift that was, and what burden that eliminates as you enter the ‘real world.’ I’m sure they would say it was their responsibility as parents, but that just shows how much they really wanted the best opportunity for me, and I can’t thank them enough!” AM

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Your comprehensive list of

LOCAL NDAR E V E N TS C A LE

what’s happening around town

TED STA Y CON NEC

MONTHLY EVENTS

GUIDED WALKING TOURS OF HISTORIC SUMMERVILLE Walks are daily by appointment.

The Summerville Dorchester Museum offers two guided walking tours of historic Summerville, one of old planter Summerville and one of the West End with its railroad history. Stroll past gracious old homes of the Antebellum and Victorian eras. Hear stories of the people who once lived in them and of the town’s Civil War and railroad experiences. Walks cover a little over a mile and take about an hour. For information, call 875-9666 or www.summervilledorchestermuseum.org SUMMERVILLE FARMER’S MARKET Saturday Mornings, 8am-1pm You will find the freshest local produce, baked goods, jellies and jams, crafts and more. The market is located at First Citizens Bank next to Town Hall.

WINE STROLLS AT MIDDLE-

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TON PLACE Wednesdays through November 14 at Middleton Place, 6:30-8:00pm Sip and stroll in a different garden location each week while sampling old and new world wine vintages. Special themed strolls are scheduled throughout the season. Extend the evening with dinner at the Middleton Place Restaurant. For reservations, call (843) 266-7477. Purchase tickets at www.MiddletonPlace.org THE SUMMER GAMES AT THE TIMROD June 6 at 2pm, July 11 at 7pm, August 1 at 2pm Join us this summer at the Timrod Library for games with friends. While it is hot outside, cool off with a delicious dessert as you play your favorite game. Bring your cards or board games. Tables will be set up.

Space is limited, so make your reservation soon by calling the Timrod at 871-4600.

Cost is $25.00 per person. All proceeds benefit Timrod’s special projects.

JURIED FINE ART QUILT SHOW Through August 24 Fabric artists from Dorchester County, the Town of Summerville, as well as adjoining communities, were invited to enter the second Juried Fine Art Quilt Show sponsored by the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Greater Summerville. Entries required that a quilt be defined as an artwork in which the primary medium is fabric and which may be machine or hand-stitched or a combination of both. All work must have been created by the artist and adaptations/interpretations of other works and patterns were allowed. The CAA has

sponsored revolving juried fine art shows in Town Hall over the past two years and has held shows for painting and photography as well as quilts. The public is invited to view the exhibit during regular business hours Monday through Friday in the Summerville Town Hall Annex. For more information, visit SummervilleSCNow.com/cultural-arts

JUNE AN EVENING AT BUD KNIGHT’S PARTY BARN Saturday, June 2, 6-11pm Enjoy fine cuisine by Cricket and Kyle Catering during an elegant evening of dining, music, and both silent and live auctions. The Palmetto Dance Band will be in full swing. Be sure to bid on an exotic trip to Mexico, Miami, Las Vegas and more! Tickets are $75 per person or $525 to reserve a table of 8. Sponsorships are also available. All proceeds to benefit "Our Women Build." For tickets and information, visit www.dorchesterhabitat.org SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA Now through June 10 For 17 days and nights each spring, Spoleto Festival USA fills Charleston, South Carolina’s historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces with over 120 performances by renowned artists as well as emerging performers in disciplines ranging from opera, theater, music theater and dance to chamber, symphonic, choral and jazz music, as well as the visual arts. www.spoletousa.org

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SPOLETO FINALE Sunday, June 10 at Middleton Place; gate opens at 3:00pm, Beer garden begins at 3:30pm, Concert begins at 8:30pm Finale performance by Cedric Watson and Bijou Creole. Four-time Grammy nominated Cedric Watson combines Zydeco and Cajun musical styles with strong Bluesy vocals for a lively Louisiana-French sound. Arrive early to picnic on the Greensward in the afternoon light and enjoy the new Beer Garden with local beer from Palmetto Brewing, food by Middleton Place Restaurant and three regional bands. The evening will close with a spectacular fireworks display to end the 2012 Spoleto season. Food and beverage vouchers will be available at the event. For tickets, visit www.SpoletoUSA.org or call (843) 579-3100.

“ACTING OUT” SUMMER WORKSHOP June 11-30 The Flowertown Players are gearing up for another fun-filled summer with preparations for 2012’s “Acting Out” Summer Workshop. Registration deadline is Friday, May 25, and class sizes are limited for both full day and 1/2 day options. Sign up today for three full weeks and an amazing theatre experience. For more information, please CALL the office at (843) 875-9251.

JUNE THIRD THURSDAY Thursday, June 21, 5-8pm Join us for the second round of auditions for “Summerville’s Got Talent” on Hutchinson Square in Downtown Summerville. Art Walk and live music will be featured throughout the town. As always,

local businesses offer special deals and special meals! For more information, visit www.summervilledream.org

and scholarships to the summer camp.

Come join for an evening of fun! Contact The Flowertown Players, 843 8759251, www.flowertownplayers.org for more information.

JULY

MEALS ON WHEELS OF SUMMERVILLE 30TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY Thursday, June 28 Come celebrate at Country Club of Summerville (Miler) Candlelite Pavilion where the Palmetto Dance Band will entertain you with dance tunes as you enjoy barbecue plus southern fixins'. Tickets are $25 each with proceeds to Meals On Wheels of Summerville. Call Betsy or Leslie for tickets at (843) 873-8224 or email mealsonwheelsofsummerville@yahoo.com ONCE UPON A GALA ~ AN EVENING IN OZ July 28 7-11:pm Join us for a summer fundraiser traveling down the yellow brick road back to the land of OZ at Pinewood Preparatory School. Tickets are $50 each or $85 per couple. Dress is semi-formal, but not stuffy. Come in your best green & white, put on your sparkly red shoes or incorporate your favorite character, but please no blue jeans. Food, wine, great music, raffle, party games and a silent auction featuring artwork with an OZ-mania theme.

Money raised funds educational classes

RED, WHITE & BLUE ON THE GREEN Sunday, July 1, 5-8pm Summerville DREAM will host the annual Summerville event, 'Red, White and Blue on the Green" in Downtown Summerville. Hutchinson Square will host games, face painting, train rides, jump castles and a watermelon-eating contest.

Food vendors will be on site. There will be a costume contest for the best patriotic garb. Decorated bicycles, wagons, families and pets parade around the park, and the most original and best decorated entrants are awarded prizes. For more information, visit www.summervilledream.org

JULY 4TH CELEBRATION AND FIREWORKS DISPLAY Wednesday, July 4, 7pm Come celebrate our nation’s birthday with music, food and a fireworks display at Gahagan Park beginning at 9pm.

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HISTORIC BEVERAGE/RUM STROLL AT MIDDLETON PLACE July 11 Wine strollers will be able to drink in history when Barbados rum, one of Colonial America’s most popular beverages, will be featured. Middleton Place’s partner for the evening is historic St. Nicholas Abbey, a world-renowned distiller of fine rum with a history dating back 350 years. One of the island’s oldest and most successful sugar plantations, St. Nicholas Abbey (c.

1658) is a popular heritage tourism site focusing on preservation and education in addition to producing fine island rum.

Many of Charleston’s traditional beverage recipes, such as “planter’s punch,” call for good Barbados rum. Come stroll the Gardens and toast the sunset in true historic fashion. Cost is $30 per adult. For more information, visit www.MiddletonPlace.org JULY THIRD THURSDAY Thursday, July 19, 5-8pm Join us for the grand finale of “Summerville’s Got Talent.” Finalists from the previous two Third Thursdays compete to be crowned the Talent of Summerville. Audience participation and voting encouraged!

Art Walk and live music throughout the downtown makes for a lively and fun evening. Bring your lawn chairs and the family and stay for dinner at one of Summerville's great independent restaurants. For more information, check out our website at www.summervilledream.org

AUGUST “THE WIZARD OF OZ” PRESENTED BY THE FLOWERTOWN PLAYERS August 2-12 The musical piece of Americana is brought to life on the Flowertown Stage. Little Dorothy Gale of Kansas dreams of what lies over the rainbow. One day, a twister 94

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hits her farm and carries her to a magical world of witches, wizards and wonder! For tickets and more information, visit www.flowertownplayers.org AUGUST THIRD THURSDAY Thursday, August 16, 5-8pm Before the kids head back to school, come out for one last summer evening in the historic downtown. There will be live music all over town and the Art Walk on Short Central. It’s a great time to take advantage of Back to School specials. Join us in the Historic Downtown for a last great summer’s evening. For more information, visit www.summervilledream.org SUMMERVILLE NIGHT AT THE JOE Saturday, August 18 Before schools re-open, we will have “Summerville Night at The Joe” where thousands of Summervillians will gather for pre-game festivities and to see the RiverDogs play Augusta. Ticket sales will benefit five local leagues.

13TH ANNUAL RACE FOR THE ARK Saturday, August 25, 7:45am Number 13 will be a lucky year for The ARK’s signature event, The Race for The ARK! This first-of-the-season 5K winds through beautiful, historic downtown Summerville. Proceeds from the race support The ARK’s services for families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. To register, visit: http://www. active.com/running/summerville-sc/racefor-the-ark-2012 or call 843-832-2357.

We Speak Foreign Car Foreign cars speak a complex language. Our master technicians will translate the problem and get you back on the road.

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FINDS AT THE SUMMERVILLE VISITOR CENTER 10 Summerville Postcards 9 Free Wifi 8 Foodie Guide 7 Maps 6 Dining Brochures & Menus 5 Hottest Happening Events 4 Glass Of Sweet Tea 3 Home-Grown “Azalea Mag” 2 Relocation Information 1 Southern Hospitality!

Summerville Visitor Center 402 N. Main St. Summerville, SC 29483 Toll Free: 866-875-8535 843-873-8535

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Junior Service League “Boots, Boogie & BBQ” Gala Friday March 23rd The Junior Service League of Summerville, through its individual and collective efforts, strives to foster the spirit of volunteerism and to improve the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. An annual open meeting for ladies in the Summerville area interested in joining the Summerville JSL will be held Monday, June 4 from 6:30-8:00 pm at Pinewood Preparatory School, 1114 Orangeburg Road.

For information, email admissions@summervillejsl.com

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Southern Flame—Southern Food and Music Festival April 21, 2012

This inaugural event included live bluegrass and rock all day, a barbecue competition, People’s Choice Southern Foods Competition, and food and drinks for purchase. Proceeds benefited the Summerville Miracle League.

For information, visit www.summervillemiracleleague.org

JUNE 1 JULY 6 AUGUST 3

Lance Starr Reggae Rockers

EVERY FRI. Live Music

EVERY SAT. Karaoke 9:30-until

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Last Call Oh, The Places We Roam: A field of flowers in Elloree, SC.

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