If You Go
What: Anderson Block Party
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays starting Sept. 3
Where: Main Street from Earle to Whitner Street in downtown Anderson
Admission: Free
Schedule of Bands
Sept. 3 — Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’Blues
Sept. 10 — Professors of Soul w/ Tomeeka Simmons
Sept. 17 — Chocolate Thunder
Sept. 24 — Peartree Music Co.
Oct. 1 — Gypsy Soul
Oct. 8 — Tony Tidwell & The Beautiful Band
Oct. 15 — Stool Pigeon
Oct. 22 — Eric Scott Band
Oct. 29 — Blue Tuesday
Anyone who went out to Matty’s Downtown Sounds this year and anytime since 2007 can agree on two things: the event is successful and it is definitely hot from the months of May through August.
So, as Downtown Sounds comes to an end tonight at Anderson’s courthouse square, many downtown merchants and organizers wondered why it was that music should leave the streets of Anderson when the weather was just turning so perfect.
Starting Sept. 3, it doesn’t have to.
On Sept. 3, the Anderson Block Party will take up where Downtown Sounds left off — providing live music from local musicians in an outdoor setting that promotes downtown. The only difference is, the Anderson Main Street Program, not Main Street Events out of Greenville, will be organizing the event.
“We decided that it would be better if all the downtown businesses stepped up and became the vendors, instead of having outside vendors, then the businesses can show what they have to offer,” said Jeff Waters, design committee member of the Anderson Main Street Program.
For nine weeks, through the month of October, live music will continue through the streets of downtown Anderson. The only differences that will be seen are the location — now from Earle Street to Whitner Street — and that downtown restaurants can sell their food, beer and wine to those who want to attend the outdoor event.
Main Street from Earle to Whitner Streets will be blocked off and all the businesses therein can sell right from their restaurant. So, a patron can buy a wristband for $1 and have the ability to purchase a beer or wine from a bar or restaurant and enjoy it while listening to the music outside.
“We are hoping that everyone who’s been coming to Downtown Sounds, and then some, will come to this,” said Carey Jones, president of the Anderson Main Street Program. “You can walk to Jax or Matty’s or SummaJoe’s and enjoy anything they have to offer and still listen to the music going on all around you.”
Of course, music was the main component to the endeavor. Mac Arnold and Plate Full O’ Blues will open the event on Sept. 3 and local favorites like Peartree Music Co., Stool Pigeon, The Eric Scott Band and more will play each week for the next two months. And, unlike Downtown Sounds, this event will occur rain or shine.
Music will start at 6 p.m. and will go until 9 p.m. However, the street will remain blocked off until 10 p.m. so that patrons can enjoy the ambiance and not feel forced out at one specific time.
Waters said the beauty of this Block Party is that it is run by a committee that can change things from week to week or hour to hour. If one thing doesn’t work, they will discuss it and fix it as best as they can.
Plus, the local music and local business angles are ideal for the community.
“Just about every downtown business is taking part and we are challenging them to market themselves and get their products out there,” Waters said. “But the local bands are familiar with Anderson and play on a weekly basis so that was a no-brainer.”
Jones said Downtown Sounds has certainly helped the downtown businesses and the Main Street Program wants to continue that. And though the small team consists of himself, Waters, Carol Nixon and the many downtown businesses participating, it has the chance to grow.
“The town has really grown into something like this,” Jones said. “It’s time to keep the momentum going.”
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Comments » 103
Workforit writes:
I'm glad to see this continuing into the cooler season. It also sounds like music is relocating so restaurants will be more accesible.
mrmeaty writes:
I love good music,good fellowship, and fine dining, but is the sale of alcohol really necessary for an event to be successful?
Workforit writes:
Why is that a response to what I said? Alcohol was available at downtown sounds, but food wasn't.
mrmeaty writes:
Since when is a simple question classified as a response? You seem to be familiar with the downtown scene, and I am not, I was just looking for information. Sorry if I offended you, I didn't realize you were so defensive , I'll try to not ask you anything again.
JAFO writes:
Is the sale of alcohol "necessary" for the success of the event? No, but they are necessary for the success of the restaurants that are assisting in the sponsorship of the event. And since the event is being put on to raise awareness of downtown and to bring people downtown, and to have those people patronize the businesses of downtown, they should be allowed to offer their products and services accordingly.
Workforit writes:
MM, then you should have just asked your question and not in direct response to me. Sounds like you are more than a little defensive yourself. Why don't you go downtown on Thursday and see what's going on?
gvhatl#209438 writes:
Why does it bother you mrmeaty if other people want a drink? If I want to have a drink while listening to music I should have every right to.
I so sick of people in SC being such anti everything!
mrmeaty writes:
I don't drink, and try not to go where alcohol is present. I have nothing agains't people enjoying alcohol, if they choose to, but as for myself, I have had some very unpleasant experiences because of it in my lifetime.
mrmeaty writes:
You, or the alcohol doesn't bother me, and you have every right to drink, while listening to your music. But I also have the right to express the opinion that not everyone drinks, or needs to in order to enjoy music, or anything else. If you choose to think that is Anti-anything then that is your right. I think I also have the right to believe that alcohol is a crutch for you, the weak, and socially crippled.
gvhatl#209438 writes:
Mrmeaty I agree that not everyone needs a drink to have fun, I don't either but thats Not the point. These events should include having alcohol drinks available to adults who want them in moderation. You sound sort of resonable but but too many people around the upstate think that "I don't like people having a drink so Events should not offer alcohol." I'm glad things are SLOWLY changing around here, as 20 years ago NO events ever had alcohol avaivable and you could not have a drink with a meal on Sunday. I don't have one on Sunday very often but I am glad I can now order one if I want to.
pirate writes:
I feel the Block Party will be a great success whether folks imbibe adult beverages or not. I just hope that there will not be any opposition to discourage those that do. Come out and support local businesses and talent, and fellowship, whether you drink or not. That's what this article is about anyway, right?
ARRRGH!
mrmeaty writes:
I will state this, and for those who disagree, ask any Law Enforcement Officer. Where there is alcohol there will also be drugs, sooner or later. Where there is alcohol there will be excessive abuse, sooner or later. Where there is alcohol there will be violence, sooner or later. Where there is alcohol there will be a cutting, or shooting, sooner or later. Where there are all these things there will be a death, sooner or later. It might just be you, but it will not be me, because I consider myself smart enough to enjoy life, without alcohol.
Workforit writes:
Well, MM downtown sounds has had alcohol since it started. Food is what has been lacking. The little children have such a good time dancing. Amazing isn't it.. Alcohol isn't the problem, but drunks can be. Meat, you already said you haven't been there and have no idea what you are talking about.
mrmeaty writes:
My not knowing what I'm talking about is your opinion, and you are entitled to it. But I have dealt with alcohol, all my life, and know very well what it leads to in any situation. I also have an opinion of you, but I will leave that for another post, lets just say DW, is on the mark in his recent accessment of you.
pirate writes:
How old are you folks? How can this article be misconstrued into a battle of words about the service of alcohol? The restaurants that were mentioned already serve food and drink just like any other day, it's just we have live music, added to dinner. Read the article, don't rewrite it in your head.
Arrrgh!
Workforit writes:
MM, I can understand why anyone around you would have a drinking problem. Stay at home and be miserable, sounds like what you do best.
mrmeaty writes:
I do a lot of things best, and from what I am hearing you do some things very well yourself. I am never miserable, and I can afford to go anytime I please. But I would rather rattle the cages of you, and your deadbeat friends.
mrmeaty writes:
I have no problem with alcohol in the restaurants, but when they bring it out into the streets that makes it another matter. We had laws agains't that until recently, didn't we?
Workforit writes:
MM,you tend to talk a lot about what you hear. I prefer to make my own decisions, you might try it sometime. As far as alcohol on streets, it's been around awhile which you would know if you crawled out of your cave.
pirate writes:
There WAS a law. We live in America, there was a vote, the outcome of that vote was in favor of selling alcohol on Sunday and during events. If you have an issue, please, write your Congressman.
See you (who want to come) tonight!
ARRGH!
mrmeaty writes:
No thanks, I might have to associate with "HAPPY" people like you, and your "FUNNY" friends. And you know how much of a grouch I can be. I'll just stay here in my little cave, and continue working on my new invention,the wheel. It only travels in one direction at a time though.
Workforit writes:
MM, I knew there was a reason why I prefer places that serve alcohol.
mrmeaty writes:
A good place for a former soldier to pick up FAT CHICKS?
pirate writes:
Now children, am I going to have to place you in time out, or would you prefer a paddling? It makes no difference to me.
ARRGH!
mrmeaty writes:
I have heard that workforit, prefers paddlings, but I will take the time-out. I need all the rest,I can get.
Workforit writes:
MM, you are picking up fat chicks? I get that a fat man gets fat chicks. I like my husband, so chicks of any kind don't do it for me.
pirate writes:
the plank be for ye!
Arrgh!
mrmeaty writes:
Maybe not now, but I hear different stories from the past.
Workforit writes:
Are there any adults posting here?
mrmeaty writes:
Why, are you looking for an X-rated topic to post on?
trashrat76 writes:
I think everyone needs to grow up and quit acting like a bunch of idiots . GET A LIFE
mrmeaty writes:
Sounds to me like someone else looking for adult entertainment. Sorry, this is for kids only, no adults allowed. LOL
pirate writes:
Hope to see you all there again this week! The opener was fantastic!
Arrgh!
DWade writes:
Meaty, apparently you do have some deep seeded issues with alcohol in your life. A parent or spouse abuse alcohol?
You're taking your personal experience and saying that is what will occur, in every instance, when alcohol is involved?
They serve alcohol at Olive Garden.....think that's a haven for drugs, crime, etc.? No.
Workforit and the others that have pointed out to you that you need to actually attend one of these events, see how they are carried out, etc., and you will see it is not in any way how you are characterizing it.
In Greenville, they have been doing these types of events for years. Only those of age, with a band on can purchase alcohol. Law enforcement is there because of the crowds. I have never seen anyone unruly or drunk out of their mind.
There is nothing wrong with consuming alcohol, in moderation, which is what typically occurs at these events. Further, the surgeon general has been on record in the past that he encouraged adults to consume a glass of wine on a regular basis.
Bless your heart.
trashrat76 writes:
Thats right you are all acting like s bunch of elementary kids going back and forth at each other.PLEASE GROW UP
mrmeaty writes:
DW, I'll make you a deal, I will come to one of the events that serve alcohol if you will volunteer to work with me at the Haven of Rest, on either Thanksgiving, or Christmas Day. That way, we both could better understand the others position. How about it put-up, or shut-up.
AJ_Tazz writes:
WOW....prime example of Andersons finest!!! This is embarassing!
DWade writes:
Well first off, I, and I doubt anyone else in Anderson County could care less if you come to one of the events downtown that serves alcohol, or not. And in particular, the businesses, who are offering food and drinks, and possibly helping pay for the entertainment would probably just as well have you stay home. Your presence is not wanted or needed.
Meaty, if the basis of your position is working the soup kitchen at Haven of Rest on Thanksgiving or Christmas day, I have been there and done that, at Soup Kitchens in Charlotte, Rock Hill, Greenville, and have done so with my two sons, my parents, sister and her family. It's a good cause, but keep in mind this.....those folks don't just need help on Thanksgiving or Christmas.....they struggle to survive every day.
So, you are comparing that experience to serving alcohol, so that responsible Anderson County citizens can choose whether or not they would partake of a drink or two at an enertainment venue in downtown Anderson? The world you live in is very narrow and apparently hollow. You are assuming everyone that takes a drink of alcohol is going to turn into a degenerate and homeless...that is quite a stretch. Down right hypocritical.
Those people you are serving at Haven of Rest on Thanksgiving and Christmas.....many, possible all are where they are at because of a multitude of bad choices they made in their life.
If everyone thought like you do, there would be many, many more people unemployed in this country.
Bless your heart.
mrmeaty writes:
I suggest you take the time to talk with some of those people that you claim you have helped to feed. most will tell you their path to where they now find themselves on was started with something innocent, like a drink, a pill, a smoke, or something similar and they never thought in a million years that it would lead to an addiction. I know it doesn't always happen to everyone, but why take the chance. I would rather put a single bullet in my pistol, and see how many times I could pull the trigger. But I have never been one who needed alcohol to relax, loosen up, be myself, enjoy good company, restore, and or maintain my health, and all the other reasons people like you use it for your crutch. I have also found those who defend it the strongest, are the ones who need it the most, and will deny that need the loudest.
DWade writes:
Meaty, if you decided to put a single bullet in your pistol, pointed it at your head, and started pulling.....well, in that cave you live in, I doubt anyone would know (and maybe not care) if you took matters in your own hands.
I have talked to some of those. Keep in mind, you are talking to people that many times are chronic alcohol and drug abusers, who are quick to blame others for their plight in life. Also, it was more than that first drink or smoke that resulted in them being where they are. Could have been no role models or supportive parents in their life, no structure/guidance, etc.
The fact that you choose to not drink, for any reason, is your personal choice. The fact that others choose to, for whatever reason, is their personal choice.
Me personally, in the course of a year, I can count the number of times I choose to drink on one or both hands, with finger left over, and I suspect many others, that you are accusing of "screaming the loudest" drink socially, in a similar fashion.
To take an extreme situation like your experience dealing with homeless/less fortunate people at Haven of Rest, and applying that to this discussion just shows how irrational your thought process really is. You really aren't much, if any different than your friend, Bubba.....in fact, ya'll are so much alike, I think that's why you enjoy opposing most anything he says. He must be your idol.
Bless your heart.
mrmeaty writes:
Although I have never met Bubba, as you call him, I don't think he, and I are alike at all> And what you think, or say about me doesn't bother me in the least, because you, like most people who depend on a crutch such as alcohol, also tend to be afraid to really confront anyone, or anything except from a very safe place. That is why you refuse to face either me, or your problem with alcohol dependency isn't it? Get you some of that liquid courage, and come on down, and be a real man.
DWade writes:
Meaty, if I confronted you in person, or in a dark alley, be assured, you'd be less likely to talk smack in person, than you would be on here. You're right, it is easy to hide behind a keyboard, monitor and internet connection.
A person that drinks socially, on occasion does not have a drinking problem, and does not have a "crutch", as you refer to it.
Aside from the apparent psychological help you need, a few drinks and you getting laid might actually help you, if only temporary.
Workforit (make sure you are sitting down when you read this).....I might have to actually agree with you on this......Meaty may actually be a certified whack job.
I have no problem with someone that chooses to not drink, or be around it, and respect them for that choice. One of my best friends is a Baptist minister, and of course does not approve of drinking, and I'm certain his Christian faith is as strong, or stronger than yours. He would be the first to say you don't use something like this to criticize others views....that's the difference between someone with real values and integrity, and someone that thinks they possess those qualities, such as yourself.
mrmeaty writes:
Just name the dark alley, and the time big boy, I will be there, how about you? Now who is going to talk smack from behind their computer, and who will do it in person?
trashrat76 writes:
Now Children Lets be Adults on here
DWade writes:
You're funny. Stoopid, but funny. Natalie (my wife) and I will be at Indigo Joe's on Woodruff Road this evening at 6:45 to watch the Clemson and Steelers game (they have 40+ TVs). We will be driving her 2007 Gold Lexus RX350 SUV with a UNC Tarheels license plate on it (Natalie is a UNC alum, God bless her). If you simply touch the vehicle, the alarm system will let me know you're there.
Natalie said she'd be glad to come out and slap you silly (she's a black belt too,and she actually still works out daily now that she retired early from the state of N.C. shortly after we moved here...we met in a mixed martial arts program in Charlotte).
Natalie told me to tell you stick with playing roulette with that gun and single bullet you mentioned the other day in your post. Anderson County might get lucky and rid itself of a nutcase. As a director for the N.C. ESC, she met whack jobs like you every day.
Otherwise, my next visit to Anderson will be in October, to visit my parents when they return from a few weeks at the beach.
pirate writes:
ooh, ooh, fight! fight!
Here's an outlet....Friday Night Fights @ the Anderson Civic Center, that way, at least a little revenue can be generated to Anderson. I'll buy a ticket!
Arrgh!
mrmeaty writes:
Well let me know at least 24 hours in advance just when you will be in Anderson, and be sure to bring that wife, that protects you so well. I was really impressed with both your, and wifey's resum'e. Although I also think you are probably blowing a lot of smoke there too. I will be sure to have my female friend on hand, and we can discuss whatever pops up. And just for reference are you always in, or around places that serve alcohol? I bet the only time you attend church is when they are serving the wine, and wafers.
pirate writes:
My, how very Christian of you.
if only there were a sarcastic font out there)
Arrgh!
DWade writes:
Meaty, would that be your mom or your sister that you live with, that you would be bring with you? Actually, my wife will be in Anderson County this morning at a fabric sale....Natalie said she would be glad to meet you (and I'm certainly not concerned about that, because I know what she's capable of). All you gotta do is tell me where and when (after lunch) and she said she'll meet you.
Do you even know what Indigo Joe's is? It's a very nice restaurant/sports bar? As does most restaurants, it serves alcohol, but also serves good food, at reasonable prices, and in a great environment to watch multiple games. Natalie and I won't be consuming alcohol (as I said, in the course of a year, you could count on one or two hands the # of times we consume a very moderate portion of alcohol, with fingers left over).
I know a very closed/simple minded person like yourself would have a hard time grasping that a couple could go to a restaurant/venue that serves alcohol, and not consume any, or if they chose to, do so in moderation, and not end up as alcoholics/abusers/degenerates, but trust everyone that has been telling you...it happens every day.
You just need to actually have your momma take you to somewhere besides Bill's Restaurant and Mama Penn's for meat and three (not that there is anything wrong with meat and three, and these two are good local businesses) and actually see it for yourself.....people actually come out of Red Lobster, Olive Garden, O'Charleys, etc......all that serve alcohol, and actually are not alcoholics....it's amazing Meaty.
Bless your closed/simple mind and heart.
mrmeaty writes:
So what you are announcing to all the readers of this blog is that you are going to throw down a challenge, and then send your wife to defend your honor? Is that your idea of what a real man does? And don't worry, about my sister, or momma, you need to go down on the corner and get yours off the street. And for your information, some that come out of the restaurants that you mentioned are alcoholic's, and try to drive while under the influence, and actually kill others.
And bless your little/ alcohol pickled mind, and heart
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