In loving memory of Dr. Karl Rudert

Nov 16

I can’t believe it, but it’s been 12 years since Village Wine relocated operations to its current facility in the Register Building. From a humble start encompassing two rooms in the building, we have expanded operations and entertainment to all three floors, including event rental space, rooftop entertainment space, on premise services, package retail and live entertainment. We couldn’t be more proud of our clientele and the role we help fulfill for our friends and community.

I do want to go back and remember the rush for the grand opening on Monday before Thanksgiving. We worked round the clock Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Village Wine would have never opened without the friends who volunteered to help us, and that list is long. There is one special couple, however I want to make note of, Dr. Karl and Annie Rudert. Karl and Annie just got back from vacation so they had to play and were playing catch up with their own career and personal responsibilities. Karl and Annie worked every hour we did. They were the most unselfish and giving friends anyone could dream of having. As you all know, we lost Karl a few years ago. He has moved upstairs where we know he is doing even greater things for all of us than when we were all together. Annie is in Florida missing the snow we just had, but her heart and friendship are with all of us, keeping our hearts warm.

As we enter the Holiday season and our birthday, Village Wine would like to remember that friendship and Karl’s spirit of community and giving. Karl and I shared a favorite passion for a wonderful blend of Rum and Coke. The brands of rum changed over time and the coke went from regular to diet, but we always enjoyed our libation(s). Robin and I decided we needed to honor Karl by contributing in some way to the Effingham Hometown Christmas. Starting Monday, November 21st, through Thursday December 1st, Village Wine will set aside and donate to the Downtown Effingham Hometown Christmas $1 for every Rum Drink sold. Come on by, enjoy a rum drink, toast Karl and Annie, and know that you will be contributing to a great downtown event.

Cheers,

Boris, Robin, Katina, and the entire Village Wine Gang!