Wayne Newton Sighting in Charleston, South Carolina

After Church yesterday, my husband surprised me with a suggestion to eat brunch at the historic Mills House restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina. One of my favorite spots, the Mills House's famous Barbados Room is warm and tropically decorated. The dining room is named with a nod towards the trading between Charleston and the West Indies in the 18th century. It's lovely and the brunch buffet is fabulous. A real sensory treat.

As we were being seated I looked up and stood face to face with Wayne Newton. No kidding. Mr. Las Vegas was in my favorite restaurant. There was an electric buzz in the room but all of the well-heeled patrons were respectfully honoring his privacy. What struck me was how friendly and happy Wayne Newton appeared.

I am not of the Wayne Newton, 'Daddy Don't You Walk So Fast' era. One of my guilty pleasures, however, is watching 'Dancing with the Stars'. So while I knew who Wayne Newton was, it wasn't until he partnered up with Cheryl Burke several years ago that I really formed an opinion of him. Even though he was the third contestant eliminated from the competition, he seemed genuine. Of course, you can't form a real opinion of someone based on a reality television gig but still, I liked him.

I liked him even more when I saw him in person yesterday. We found out later that Wayne Newton was in Charleston for a benefit for the Medical University of South Carolina Children's Hospital. But there he was, eating in the Mills House restaurant surrounded by a fun-loving group of all ages. We could only speculate that Wayne Newton was there for brunch with his extended family. The young children were climbing all over him, feeding him off their plates and holding his hand. Everybody was laughing and having a good time. It was delightful. And we could see it all - they were sitting at the table right next to us!

The Mills House has a piano player that's been there over 30 years; a kind grizzled old gentleman with a musical gift. When he noticed Wayne Newton in the restaurant he began playing 'Danke Schoen' to which Wayne Newton threw back his head and laughed out loud. Wayne Newton is one classy guy.

When Wayne Newton and his group got up to leave, he individually thanked all of his servers. He shook hands with the bartender and with the piano player. He quickly surveyed the small Barbados Room. I know all this because I was watching him while trying to look like I wasn't watching him. Well, he caught me of course. I quickly jerked my gaze away - trying to be cool. But he just chuckled. I guess if you're Wayne Newton you are used to people checking you out.

Granted, this is one brief observation. I've never seen him perform live and honestly, his music isn't my personal style. But the next time I'm in Las Vegas, Wayne Newton's act is on my 'MUST SEE' list.