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Since May 2005

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON, SC PERMIT NO 437

Volume 4 Issue 24 Sullivan’s Island



April 3, 2009

FREE

Isle of Palms



Goat Island • Dewees Island

D

espite the blustery March weather, the Isle of Palms Garden Club yard sale held its ground on March 28 at Janice Ashley’s house on I’on Avenue, Sullivan’s Island. Damp and a little windblown, the Garden Club ladies were undeterred, happily selling through tables of merchandise; from fish tanks to board games to coffee pots. The native plants for sale were almost gone by 9am and they were obviously a steal: a hearty white jasmine vine in a five gallon pot sold for just $5, and a few full spiderworts were available for $1 each. “When the rain showers kicked up, we just moved everything inside,” smiled Garden Club member Laura McMaster. “When it lets up, we’ll move it all back outside, but we’ve sold a lot today.” Janice Ashley, the homeowner, said that some of the best deals were grabbed up almost immediately. “We had bolts of ribbon and decorative pillows for just $2 each,” she said, and a nice television donated to the Garden Club sale by a couple moving off the island sold almost immediately. Despite the weather, the Isle of Palms Garden Club yard and plant sale was a great success.

A plant sale by any other name (above) Isle of Palms Garden Club members (l to r) Betty Mathis, Janice Ashley, Nancy Perkins, Seiko Smith and Laura McMaster helped out during the Club’s annual plant and yard sale. (left) Some of the items from the sale.

Inside Island Eye

Splash Bash page 7

Respite care page 9

SI Lighthouse page 19

2

Civic

April 3, 2009

Sullivan’s Town Council – March 17, 2009 our publication deadline. Council member Presson, however, was able to reveal his reason for supporting the ordinance. He pointed out that it was precisely because of the upcoming Commercial District and accreted land plans that he wanted to add two more people to the Planning Commission. “I think the business district is underrepresented on the Planning Commission,” he said. Presson has recently been the champion of those who want more regulation in the business district because of excessive noise and non-residents who don’t respect the island. “I’ve been as hard on the business district as anybody,” he admited. However, as the Town approaches decisions on the Commercial District and accreted land master plans, Presson believes the business district deserves more of a voice in the Planning Commission, where they will be making many decisions that will affect the Commercial District in the next two to three months. In response to Currey’s suggestion of replacing people to achieve their end, Presson said it would be a shame to lose good people in exchange for an underrepresented group when you could have both. “It’s hard to put people off that have been serving for so many years and doing a good job,” he said.

Strong finances The Town Council received some good news in these troubling economic times from the firm of Greene, Finney, and Horton who were hired to conduct a municipal audit. They reported that the general fund balance is very healthy and that expenses were actually down from the year be-

fore. However, the audit was for fiscal year 2008, which preceded the current economic crisis. The company did make some suggestions for improvement such as installing safeguards over cash deposits, proper recording of expenses, and improvements in fraud risk management as well as other things. It was admitted, though, that the new computer system being installed at Town Hall is taking care of many of their suggestions.

A praise for Prause Zoning Administrator Kent Prause was honored by Town Council with a resolution recognizing his service to the Town. Prause has recently accepted a position as Division Chief with the Mount Pleasant Department of Planning and Development. Prause, described as a “great servant to the Town”, has been with Sullivan’s Island since June of 1990. “You’re going to be hard to replace,” the Council said.

Photo provided by Town of Sullivan’s Island

Kaynard loses Planning Commission push In a dramatic turn of events, Council member Buddy Howle changed his vote on a controversial ordinance to add two more members to the seven person Planning Commission, causing the ordinance to fail for a second time. “It was a surprise,” Council member Everett Presson said. Howle had been voting with the ordinance’s creator, Jerry Kaynard, as well as Council members Everett Presson and Mary Jane Watson since December. The ordinance originally failed when Howle was absent from a December meeting causing a 3-3 tie vote. Howle would only comment to say that this was just another vote. Kaynard introduced the ordinance late last year and stated that he wanted to accommodate the abundance of residents who wanted to participate in government. However, some argued that the timing was suspect as the Planning Commission will be dealing with the Commercial District and accreted land master plans this year. Planning Commission Chairman Hal Currey stated that if the true intention was for more participation and diversity, then they should be adding members to every Committee and Board as well as the Town Council. “People tell me we’ve [the Planning Commission] done a great job,” Currey said, and suggested that an attempt to add more people to the Planning Commission is more of an attempt to dictate how the Planning Commission acts and votes. The Island Eye News was unable to get a comment from Kaynard on the turn of events by

Zoning Administrator Kent Prause has accepted a position with the Mount Pleasant Department of Planning and Development.

And the band played on The Town has reviewed the bids

www.islandeyenews.com

from contractors interested in repairing the bandstand. Dawson Incorporated, the same company that built the fire station, came in with the lowest bid out of eight applicants. The project is expected to last between six and eight weeks and will cost approximately $25,000. Mayor Carl Smith was involved in the original acquisition of the bandstand, which was bought from a private entity for $2500. Fire Department gets graded The Insurance Services Office (ISO) will conduct an audit of the Sullivan’s Island Fire Department beginning on April 12. They will examine several critical areas of the department’s capabilities such as fire suppression, communication/dispatch and water supply. The results will determine the Town’s ISO rating which is currently at ‘4’ on a 10-point scale with lower numbers being better. The Town hopes to improve their score, which could lower insurance rates for homeowners.

April 3, 2009

3

Civic

What’s the plan for the sandy land?

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n Monday, March 23, the Town of Sullivan’s Island held a public meeting to discuss the issue of accreted land. Over the years, Sullivan’s Island has accreted over 90 acres of land through natural processes on the barrier island. Sand bypassing is bringing sand from the Isle of Palms and depositing it on the coast of Sullivan’s. Town Council has teamed up with the Selection Committee and Coastal Science and Engineering to draft a plan for the new land and they have found that there are infinite constraints concerning jurisdiction and vegetation. Building homes or commercial buildings on the new land puts a lot of money at risk by way of flood damage. Since the shoreline is ever changing and sea level has proven to be rising, investing in new buildings is a risk. Additionally, building on the land would damage the new ecosystems that are in

By Ashley Anderson

development. As time goes by, the land will develop from grasslands to shrubs and eventually to a maritime forest. The land is also being considered as a protection device for homes near the shore. Since Sullivan’s has a highly active shoreline, natural sand dunes that require a stagnant environment cannot accumulate. If large sand dunes are built, storm surge could be significantly reduced as they would help to protect vulnerable properties. The options that have been laid out are as follows: The first is to do nothing and let the land naturally grow into a maritime forest. This would create a whole new ecosystem and would contribute to the wildlife on Sullivan’s Island. However, it would limit public access, safety and the value of a beach view for properties. Another option is to create a dune system with a few larger dunes intermixed

with ponds, which would create protection from storm surge and a variety of habitats. Another choice is to import sand to build giant dunes that would decrease storm surge by three feet and protect properties as sea level continues to rise. The last choice would be to build on the land and gamble with the risks that come with it. The community must decide what their priorities are as far as preserving their own ideals of Sullivan’s Island and how far ahead they want to plan for future environments. There will be a free tour of the accreted land on Saturday, April 4. Citizens will get a chance to walk on the new land guided by botanist Dr. Richard Porter. The two tour times are at 10a.m. and 2p.m. For more information about the accreted land tour, please contact Larry Middaugh at 883-3034.

State takes bold step in abortion issue

S

outh Carolina could make a formal statement about abortion if a joint resolution to allow a monument to be built on public property is passed. H. 3527 would create the South Carolina Unborn Children’s Monument Commission if passed. The goal of the commission would be to build a monument recognizing children who have died before birth on the State House grounds with private funds. Already, it has a lot of support among House Representatives with 36 co-sponsors including local

By Ali Akhyari representative Mike Sottile. Sottile, South Carolina State House Representative for the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island district, is co-sponsoring the resolution that would allow the use of private funding to build the monument on the grounds of the Capitol in recognition of all the children who have died before being born. Resolution H. 3527, as it’s called, does not actually mention the word “abortion”, but the allusion is undeniable as Sottile brought the meaning that was hiding between the lines out

for all to see. “I just think a monument for SC children who have been aborted is a good statement,” Sottile says. Obviously, this is an issue that has divided Americans for a long time and the passing of 3527 would certainly be a statement on how South Carolina views the act. However, it may not be as simple as making a ‘good statement’. Some people are asking what a monument would accomplish and are wondering if our State’s see Abortion on page 5

Civic Calendar Isle of Palms 886-6428 www.iop.net

Tuesday, April 7 Personnel Committee Meeting at 5:30pm City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd Wednesday, April 8 Recycle Municipal Court at 10:00AM City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd Planning Commission Meeting at 4:30PM Building Dept, 1301 Palm Blvd Thursday, April 9 Real Property Committee Meeting at 8:30AM City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd

Livability Court at 5:00PM City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd Tuesday, April 14 Board of Zoning Appeals at 5:30pm Building Dept, 1301 Palm Blvd

Tuesday, April 7 Municipal Court at 10am 1610 Middle Street Planning Commission at 6:30pm 1610 Middle Street

Wednesday, April 15 Municipal Court at 10:00am City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd

Wednesday, April 8 Recycle Day

Ways & Means Committee Meeting-NEW DATE at 5:45pm City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd

Thursday, April 9 NO BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS MEETING

Sullivan's Island 883-3198 www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Tuesday, April 14 Municipal Court at 10am City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd

Mon, April 6 Committees of Council at 6pm 1610 Middle Street

Wednesday, April 15 DRB Mtg at 6pm 1610 Middle Street

www.islandeyenews.com

L u cky D og Pu bl i sh i n g of S C , L L C

Publisher of the Island Eye News, The Island Connection and The Folly Current.

Lynn Pierotti Publisher [email protected] Kristin Hackler Editor [email protected] Swan Richards Graphic Designer [email protected] Ali Akhyari Assistant Editor [email protected] Brittany Urbach Reporter [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Interns Jennifer Millar Bridget Hinkebein Bri Horahan Ashley Anderson • Contributors Andy Benke Mia Burneister-Laws Bobby Cummings David Farrow Mary Gatch Sarah Dargan Harper Richard Hricik IOPCA Carol Killough John Nelson Meredith Nelson Andy PIckett Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Submit your letters to the editor to: [email protected] Future deadlines: April 8 for all submissions. The Island Eye News, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina LLC, is a free, independent newspaper published every two weeks and is for and about the Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Goat Island and Dewees Island. Copies are mailed free of charge to every active mailbox in our coverage area and are also available at area businesses and by subscription to non-islanders. Subscriptions are $30 per year for non-residents and are available by sending a check to Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC, P.O. Box 837, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482. Contributions of information, pictures and articles are welcomed and are used according to space limitations and news value and cannot be returned except by special request. Our editorial content is primarily dedicated to the area of distribution; ad space is open to all businesses who want to reach the Island Eye News market. Complete ad creation is $50, however, changes of up to 30% of the original ad are included at no extra cost. All advertising rates are listed at www.islandeyenews.sc under “advertising”.

April 3, 2009

4

No one’s a stranger on our islands

Island Editorials

There’s no such thing as “too far to walk” on an island that only has 2.4 square miles of land, but when its raining, any distance seems like a bit of a haul. It so happened we had just finished covering the Garden Club yard sale at Station 28 on Sullivan's Island and were on our way back to our office above Station 22 restaurant when the rain started to come down in heavy spring drops. With several pieces of camera equipment and a newly purchased white jasmine bush between the two

of us, we were considering making a run for the next six blocks when a golf cart pulled to the stop sign ahead of us. “Do ya’ll need a ride?” the woman asked as her traveling companion, a sweet, older yellow lab, happily thumped her tail and grinned at us. “Please!” We said, and jumped aboard. She smiled and introduced herself as Connie Leppard and the dog as Sandie. They live on Sullivan’s Island part time and spend the rest of the year in Columbia. Having never met us before, she offered to drive

us all the way back to Station 22, happily chatting with us and sharing family recipes along the way. There’s been plenty of discussion over the past several years about newcomers moving on to the island and bringing their impersonal isolationist ways with them, but there has also been an influx of people looking to continue and strengthen our fading island spirit. There are plenty of new and part time residents like Connie who are just brimming with the general

to visit the island to walk or run their animal on Sullivan’s beaches each week? All of them. How many Dear editor: I understand Bill Dunleavy’s artists, photographers, concerns [about the proposed fishermen, and brides Sullivan’s as noise ordinance on Sullivan’s list their most favorite Island] and no one would want to do anything to hurt place? All of them. his business.  However, I The perch from Fort overlooking suspect  that if people are Moultrie Fort Sumter and already there at 11 or 12 at Charleston Harbor is night, it is unlikely that they one of the most historical will leave just because the music has stopped. Usually by points on any national then they are involved with just map. What percentage having fun with their friends.  of War Between The enthusiasts If they are not already there by States yearn to stand there and 11 or midnight, they probably reflect? One hundred should not be driving onto the Island looking for a good percent of them. Point time in a questionable state being, the diverse magic of sobriety. Dunleavy’s is the of Sullivan’s Island "Gee, you think that stimulus money rare exception on the Island has a built-in demand that has late night amplified for so many people temporary bridge..." music but has not caused a that is inarguable and inextinguishable. They will have, for example, what problem.  always come. Sadly, some SI most of Hilton Head Island locals and elected officials has; a controlled design, Grace Reed and proactive dream of tarring and feathering awareness, education of exactly what the those people for stepping foot upon and loving all that rules and ordinances are – Sullivan’s Island is – “unless of impressed upon visitors before Dear editor: and as they enter the island. I read with mixed analysis course they buy a house from This is because access to SI does and viewpoints Lynn Perotti’s them” as Judge Steinert keenly not require a pass, reservation, article reporting from the quipped. On the other hand, late night or gated security check. I’m “Silent Island” town meeting, not suggesting this, but the as noise ordinance and late alcohol, noise pollution, and finest islands, resorts, and night antics spark continued other abuses are legitimate beach communities discreetly debate on Sullivan’s Island. complaints. Those residents saturate visitors upfront with On one hand, Sullivan’s Island paying the exorbitant taxes behavioral expectations, rules, is perhaps the most magical and construction surcharges guidelines, and even curfews. gem of Charleston-area living, to live on the island have a In my view, the honorable visitation, and beach-going. legitimate argument against Sullivan’s Island leadership Passion for Sullivan’s Island those who visit Sullivan’s has not figured out a proactive abounds on so many levels with Island and do not know “the communication strategy yet. so many people. Dining tables rules of engagement”. Some Their refusal to change, paint, outside on a sunny Sullivan’s visitors deserve to be tarred redesign, or modernize anything Island day are perhaps the and feathered for their late is, shall we say, vehement. closet thing to heaven one can night antics. My friends, There is not one sign, notice, family, guests and I are find. But there is more. or mention in discreet Some SI locals and officials usually home before dark. opportunities such as a However, because I’ve walked fail to consider what their dinner check, the mens’ or public zip code and the the entire Louis Stith Parkway ladies’ rooms, or the gas natural landscape around by day picking up hundreds of pump regarding late night Sullivan’s means to the grand pounds of trash, the evidence ordinances. Police citations scheme of Charleston-area of late night BYOB to and from are reactive after the fact, lifestyles and economics. the island is staggering. For penalizing random people How many generations of SC the record, not one ounce of for not knowing the rules, women motivate their young the garbage collected was from having too much to drink, or husbands to work hard and Poe’s, Dunleavy’s, Atlanticville, being loud after hours. There one day afford a dream home etc. The problem is that are only a small handful of here? Answer: All of them. establishments serving alcohol How many pet owners yearn Sullivan’s Island does not

kindness and friendly attitude of a long-time islander and through her thoughtful act, she was sharing the “we’re all neighbors” attitude that brought most of us here to begin with. When we talk about all the new people moving on to the island, remember Connie and remember that by sharing the spirit of the island, we are encouraging others to carry on the community-as-a-family attitude that makes Sullivan’s Island such a wonderful place to live.

Letters to the Editor:

www.islandeyenews.com

could have built us a better late at night. Even during festive weekends and holidays, I have never seen nor heard one bartender or server or sign explain to locals or guests to obey late night rules or to keep their noise down. I fully agree with the proposed noise ordinances and times. But I would encourage some sort of proactive communication strategy directly outside the establishment of alcohol service or loud music amplification, well before the midnight hours. Perhaps island police or a community group could educate or remind visitors of the rules with a flyer or business card as they depart the business district from 10pm onward, to diffuse the situation upfront. What’s more, proactive explanations of Sullivan’s Island rules printed in all Charleston news publications will better educate generations of responsible SI guests from near and far to share the somewhat strict late night rules of ideal Sullivan’s Island behavior to others, before they enter the island. Baron C. Hanson Charleston & Mount Pleasant

5

April 3, 2009

The Bert’s coverup

Ben Sawyer Bridge on the web

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Provided by Andy Benke

lease note that The South Carolina Department of Transportation and the rest of the Ben Sawyer Bridge Rehabilitation team have announced that the project website, www.BenSawyerBridge. org, is now fully functional with project history, environmental considerations, bridge design, and construction plans.  We hope you will check it out for the latest project information and refer to it for the latest news on the bridge project.  Over the next year, the SCDOT and rehabilitation team will be updating the site with project information, progress photos, and traffic information as it arises.

We knew it was coming, but it still brought a tear to many residents’ eyes as the old Bert’s Bar sign was covered up with tar paper and corrugated steel siding on Friday, March 27, in anticipation of the new Home Team Barbeque opening. Home Team plans to open their doors in early to mid-April.

Abortion from page 13 representatives are representing everyone. Some consider the concept of a monument a slap in the face. For some who have been forced to make the hard decision about abortion themselves, it is something they live with on a daily basis. “There’s not a day that goes by when I don’t think about what my child would look like or how old it would be,” Sally (not her real name) says. A monument is nothing short of spitting in her face and making her struggle even more difficult, she says. Time might be better spent on educating people before the fact, Sally adds. That may be something to consider as there are at least three other pieces of legislation that work to extend the waiting period for an abortion from one hour to 24 and that

require doctors to give specific information about the child under specific circumstances. The legislation does not speak against abortion, but hardens guidelines. The statement that Sottile and other legislators would like to make with a monument could create hardships for their very own legislation that is designed to reduce abortions while simultaneously attacking some South Carolina women emotionally. “I don’t know how far this legislation will go,” Sottile says. “I support the legislation because I believe life begins at conception.” The details of the bill can be viewed by visiting www. scstatehouse.gov and doing a search of legislation using ‘H. 3527’. You can also contact your representative to let them know how you feel about it through the website.

www.islandeyenews.com

April 3, 2009

6

Mystery plant: small is beautiful By John Nelson

blooming early in the spring that are not particularly showy or conspicuous. Like this one. You’ll find this little spring-time friend growing in rich forests. It is a humble little herb, blooming like crazy far, far below the giant oaks, hickories, basswoods and elms and well before any of those have sprouted any leaves. Sure enough, its little stems will peek out from under the old, dead leaves of the season gone by. The whole plant is a few inches tall, sporting a succession of eggshaped or triangular leaves. The leaves are sort of delicate and soft, and often have a gray-green look; a bit like lead. The flowers exhibit a white, tubular corolla, and there will be a number of flowers clustered successively toward the top of the stem. Even in full bloom, though, the foliage tends to blend in with the surrounding forest floor, and additionally, because the flowers are inconspicuous, the plants are often hard to see and are commonly overlooked. This species is known from southern New York into the upper midwest, and south to eastern Texas and north Florida. That is a very broad range, and still this little wildflower

is not very well known. It is probably more common than we think, it’s just blending in so well with its surroundings that we tend to see the bigger, brighter things around it. In a way, it’s a little bit sad to think of this tiny beauty as so often overlooked, but maybe that’s one of the advantages it enjoys. After all, it’s the flamboyant showstoppers that are most likely to be eaten by a browsing critter, or picked by a wandering human. (Seriously, though, on this last score: please make it a point never to pick or disturb blooming wildflowers in their native habitats. Although many species are apparently secure, population disruptions may have serious consequences for regular reseeding and natural propagation. Take all the pictures you want, though!)

www.islandeyenews.sc

Photo by Linda Lee

John Nelson is the curator of the Herbarium in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of South Carolina. As a public service, the Herbarium offers free plant identifications. For more information, visit www. herbarium.org or call 803-7778196.

Answer: “Virginia pennywort,” Obolaria virginica

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pring: it’s coming. Slowly, gradually, one little step at a time, each day getting a few minutes longer than the previous one. People often associate spring with a sudden outburst of brightly flowering plants, both in town and in the woods. Where I’m from, it’s the yellow jessamine and brilliant white dogwoods that make most of the first initial splash, followed by our cultivated, gaudy azaleas, and then the crushingly fragrant wisterias (and, of course, clouds of pine pollen). In the forests, too: fabulous trilliums, from white to deep brick-red, with snow-white bloodroot, are among the most conspicuous spring wildflowers. Other showy ones, depending on where you live, will include a number of violets, bellworts, trout lilies, golden Alexander, wild geraniums, foam-flower and golden-seal. The list goes on and on. The spring season really does represent a kind of color “revolution” when it comes to plants, and the key word for all of these treasured eye-catchers is “conspicuous”. But there are others. Let’s not forget that there are several wildflowers of the southeast

April 3, 2009

Daily

7

Celebrating excellent island education

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he second annual “Make a Splash Bash,” a benefit presented by SCBT for Sullivan’s Island Elementary School (SIES), was a huge success this year, raising more than $40,000. The event, held at the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms, featured fabulous food by the Sea Biscuit Restaurant and Island Thyme Catering, beverages from Pearlstine Distributors, live and silent auctions, and entertainment by local band The Island Trio. “The support from the community for this event is humbling and very much appreciated as it will directly impact the programs and quality of education that students receive,” said Sullivan’s Island faculty member and SIC Chair, Ashley Meek. Funds raised from this event will support instructional salaries for Sullivan’s Island Elementary not covered by school district funding. SIES is an “Excellent/Excellent” rated school per the 2008-2009 State of South Carolina school report card, receiving the highest rating possible. Children from Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island and Mount Pleasant attend the school, with others transfered in from areas as far away as Awendaw, McClellanville and Johns Island. Despite academic successes, an oceanfront environment and strong parental involvement, the school has annual funding needs beyond those allocations provided by the Charleston County School District. The Friends of Sullivan’s Island Elementary and PTA board members have been working together throughout the year to fund smart

By Carol Killough

working together to make this school excel in offering the highest quality of education to our students. Even in these difficult economic times, everyone rallied and worked together to support our efforts, for which we are grateful,” said school Principal, Susan King. “It was a fun-filled event and, as both a sponsor and a parent, I hope that the ‘Splash Bash’ continues to be a tremendous success for many years to come,” said Bill Medich, Senior Vice President at SCBT. (above) Shirley Ross, Other event Marjorie Bailey, Susan sponsors Smith and Denise included Cohen had a blast at avVenta, Bi-Lo, the bash! (right) Julie ProLegal Copies, Mathias, SIES music Auctioneer and art instructor; Danny Ashley Meek, 5th Petterson, The grade teacher; and Abedon Family, Pearlstine Distributors, Megan Johnson, Kindergarten and numerous generous auction donors. teacher, enjoy the SCBT Make a Splash Bash for Sullivan’s Island Friends of Sullivan’s Island School Elementary School. (left) There (FOSIS) is a South Carolina non-profit was more than enough great food corporation whose funds are held and to go around thanks to the Sea managed by the Coastal Community Biscuit restaurant and Island Thyme Foundation of South Carolina. Donations to the fund are accepted throughout the boards for every Catering. year and are tax-deductible. Checks may classroom and upgrade the school library. It is estimated be written to Coastal Community Foundation, that $90,000 will be needed for the 2009-2010 and mailed to 90 Mary Street, Charleston, SC school year to supplement teacher salaries. 29403, please indicate “FOSIS” in a note with “We are fortunate to have involved parents, the check. To give online with a credit card, a supportive community and dedicated or for more information, visit: http://www. faculty and staff, all friendsofsies.org

Choose from our Special Date Night selections

www.islandeyenews.com

8

April 3, 2009

It’s time for the Amazing Race!

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ide the bike trails of Daniel Island solving cryptic clues and completing crazy tasks to win the Amazing Race. Teams of four bicycle riders may consist of either four adults or mixed teams of at least one adult and children. Teams with children have beaten teams with adults every year so far! The race requires more ingenuity than athleticism. Quick thinking is more important than quick riding. The race begins and ends at Pierce Park Pavilion on Daniel Island where all the racers will enjoy a party sponsored by Moe’s Southwest Grill and Red Bull. Two teams will

win grand prize ribbons and awards from the sponsors and there are better prizes than ever this year! The Amazing Race will be held on April 25 from 3 to 6pm with the party to follow. Team entry fees are $90 for a team of four participants. Registration is available on line at www.active.com or by calling Creative Spark at 881-3780. On site registration will begin at 2:30pm at Pierce Park. Sponsored by the Daniel Island News, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Red Bull, Daniel Island Realty, Japan Karate Institute and benefiting Creative Spark Center for the Arts.

Fishing report

Patriots Point Bring on the spring recognized at SC Capitol

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s I come out of my winter slumber, I am happy to see azaleas blooming and lawns beginning to turn green. Offshore anglers in Charleston know that it is time to get out on the big blue ocean. By the time you read this, the offshore fishing will be heating up. Some boats have already made a few trips with mixed success, and some blackfin tuna, dolphin, and wahoo are being caught trolling. The catches of these species will become much more consistent as we head into April and hopefully we will see some yellowfin tuna in the mix along with a billfish or two. The bottom fishing is a little slow in the waters inside the ledge, but should be picking us as well. Inshore, the fishing is already picking up with some nice catches of trout and redfish being taken on a variety of artificial baits. Try a slow retrieve until water temperatures begin to come up. The sheepshead

fishing around the artificial reefs is really good and will begin to pick up inshore in mid to late April. For those of you who like to fish in the freshwater, come and check out our new site: www. SouthCarolinaontheLakes.com. We hope everyone has a safe and productive month of fishing. Tight Lines, Andy Pickett Andy Pickett, along with his brothers Tim and Vasco, run the Charlestonfishing.com website. Trusted as the best resource in the Lowcountry for fishing tips, fishing resources, fish identification, nautical maps, booking charters, and lively discussions on fishing in general. Andy has worked with Luden’s Marine Supply and also managed the fishing department for Charleston Sports for a number of years. For freshwater fishing, check out their new site www. southcarolinaonthelakes.com.

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n Wednesday, March 4, 2009, nineteen Patriots Point employees were recognized by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina for performing the essential and often dangerous repair work to save the USS Laffey. In a concurrent resolution, the employees and many volunteers were “Recognized and commended for their extraordinary efforts and working tirelessly around the clock to preserve the historic and gallant USS Laffey (DD-724) for her surviving veterans and countless admirers.”

www.islandeyenews.com

April 3, 2009

9

Financial

Booming Dubai looked like a good bet

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n the 1989 movie Field of Dreams, Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) hears a voice in his cornfield telling him “If you build it, they will come”. For investors looking for international opportunities, the country of Dubai looked like a dream field. As if taking a page out of the movie, Dubai went on a building spree that seemed quite audacious relative to the size of their country. Would this massive building spree be successful or was it just a folly in the desert? Would Dubai end up with a satisfying ending just like the movie or fall victim to unsupportable excess? As recently as July 2008, Dubai was successfully avoiding the financial crisis enveloping financial institutions around the world. It was bucking the trend and offering investors more than a glimmer of hope – despite the global economic meltdown. Dubai’s economy is built on exceptional growth. For example, the value of exports and re-exports of commodities increased 72.9 billion (in United Arab Emirates dirhams) to 109.6 billion dirhams during the first six months of 2007, and total exports in the first quarter of 2008 were 36% higher than the 36 billion dirhams recorded during the same quarter in 2007. In 2009, things are less certain, and Dubai has unquestionably succumbed to the crisis, but not

The respite of nature

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here is something so soothing about gardening. Being up to your elbows in dark earth with the limelight of the afternoon sun glinting through softly waving stems … there is nothing in the world in those moments except the heady scent of warm flowers and the weight of a gardening spade in your hand. Now imagine that you can’t remember anything but that moment while you are living it, that your past is a confusing jumble that rarely becomes clear and in the meantime, you are left only with the precious experience of the present. Respite Care, a program for older adults with memory loss, operates out of All Saints Lutheran Church in Mount Pleasant on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:30 – 1:30pm. The staff and volunteers offer many activities for the attendees, all geared toward stimulating minds and encouraging conversation. Of the many projects the staff offers, though, the patients’ favorite by far is gardening. Not only does it stimulate the body through exercise, it works all five senses

by Bobby Cummings, CFP, CFBS, CLTC

for lack of vision. The modestlysized emirate has been anything but modest: Every day seemed to witness the unveiling of another, even grander construction project that flew in the face of the global financial crisis: manmade islands created to replicate the globe, the world’s tallest skyscraper designed to push architectural knowledge to its limit, and opulent hotels. Today, however, the vision seems to be turning into an expensive mirage as the heat is turned up and Dubai struggles to meet the cost of it all. According to the Architect’s Journal article published on November 20, 2008, “architects and developers in Dubai are freezing recruitment and making redundancies [employee dismissals] as the emirate’s real estate market begins to crumble.” Workers are being laid off in significant numbers; the rollout has slowed to an almost complete standstill; and even the most publicized and anticipated projects such as Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest structure, are being impacted. Construction was recently halted on this skyscraper, which was designed to stand roughly twice the height of the Empire State Building in New York City, NY. The shockwaves are seismic, and, despite the calm facade, panic is bubbling. Christopher Davidson, fellow of the Institute for Middle Eastern

and Islamic Studies at Durham University, has gone on record saying that, “Dubai is more precarious than it has ever been; if the property industry collapses in Dubai, it will be finished. Dubai’s relative autonomy will come to an abrupt end. The emirate’s push into luxury property developments and tourist attractions was diversification on ‘paper sand’.” The statement is shocking, and bad news for foreign investors and construction specialists already struggling with shrinking returns and indefinite “holds” placed on projects. But, is the crisis facing Dubai really worse than that facing London or New York, or is it just different? To make matters worse, the once-booming Dubai Financial Market, one of the first in the Persian Gulf to allow foreigners access, collapsed, dropping more than 70% last year. It fell from a high of 6,315 in the first half of 2008 to a low of just 2,012 in the second half. The facts are that, until very recently, Dubai’s “build it and they will come” philosophy did work, and it did help establish the tiny emirate as a big player in record time. Nothing is certain, and no absolutes can be claimed, but for many investors, Dubai remains an attractive opportunity precisely because the scale of its vision cannot be significantly altered or undone.

For these investors, things have gone too far and too much already rests on its success. Time will tell if the script plays out and Dubai proves to be a “Field of Dreams”. Bobby Cummings is the owner of Lighthouse Financial of Charleston. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER TM PROFESSIONAL and Certified Family Business Specialist and has been in business since 1990. Bobby’s focus is providing comprehensive financial planning and investment advice to business owners, professionals, retirees, and people planning for  retirement. He lives on Sullivan’s Island with his wife Kristin, son Tanner (5), daughter Keenan (3), and recently born son, Banks. If you wish to learn more about the ideas and strategies in this article, or if you have any questions about your financial or estate plan, you are invited to reach Bobby via email at rcummings@finsvcs. com or by contacting his office at (843)884-9898. To find out a little more about Lighthouse Financial please visit the following web address: www.lighthousefin.net Bobby Cummings is a registered representative of and offers securities, investment advisory, and financial planning services through MML Investors Services, Inc. member SIPC (741 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464).

at once: the touch of the plants, walls and gardening words and the smell of the earth, the drawings of gardening tools fill in sounds of digging and the gentle the extra spaces. They can’t wait instructions of the volunteers, the until the weather is warm enough sight of so many vibrant colors to start digging and planting. and finally, the taste of their final If there’s a plant you’re product. thinking about removing from Last year, the Respite Care your yard, take a moment to pot group grew what they could it and drop it by the Lutheran in garden boxes built during Church. They are located less the Trident United Way Day of than a minute north of the Isle Caring. Patients planted several of Palms connector on Highway types of flowers as well as 17, right past the Crab Shack. If carrots, cucumbers, eggplants, you are going out to grab a palate strawberries and tomatoes. of flowers for your landscaping, When the plants produced fruit, snap off two or three and take the group would harvest it and the staff would show them how to prepare the different vegetables in the kitchen. It was a rich and rewarding experience which the staff hopes to repeat this year: and they need your help. No donation would be too small. Right now, a single peanut plant grows proudly in a hand decorated pot next to the patients while they do their morning exercises. When a staff member picked it up to point out the patients’ passion for gardening, a program participant suddenly looked up with a great smile and said, “That’s a peanut plant!” He reached a hand forward, as though afraid something would happen to it, and sighed as it was placed carefully back on the table. All around the room, pictures of blossoming flowers grace the www.islandeyenews.com

them by – even a packet of seeds would be gratefully accepted. If you have some old gardening tools taking up space, they could use even the oldest pair of gardening gloves or the ugliest unused trowel. A single flowering stem or lima bean seedling will make all the difference to these people who need to make the most out of every moment. For more information on Respite Care or to learn more about their gardening program, please call Ginger Deignan at 810-5576 or visit www.connectinghands.org.

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April 3, 2009

Ten ways to make a greener office

Spring cleaning? Try green cleaning By Mary Gatch

Provided by the Isle of Palms Community Association

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ith the growing concerns over the environment, we all need to do our part to go green. This can be accomplished by reducing carbon emissions, recycling waste and using recycled products. Making a greener office can be as simple as turning off lights and computers to setting up a full recycling center. Below are 10 easy ways to make a more green office environment: 1. Use recycled paper. 2. Purchase other recycled and environmentally friendly supplies. 3. Turn off electronic devices when not in use. 4. Switch to energy-saving power strips. 5. Recycle your ink and toner cartridges. 6. Recycle your old electronic devices. 7. Use recycle bins for cans, paper, plastic etc. 8. Use eco-friendly cleaning products. 9. Use bio-degradable plates, cups and utensils. 10. Switch off electronics when not in use and lights when possible and buy energy saving light bulbs. In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, the Charleston Metro Chamber’s North Area Business Council will host a workshop on sustainable/green business practices and how going green can impact your bottom line. Also on Earth Day, the Charleston Young Professionals will host the “Get on the Bus Tour and Green Expo”, which includes a tour of the Navy Yard at Noisette and surrounding eco-friendly businesses and neighborhoods in North Charleston aboard the LEEP Biodiesel Bus. Following the bus tour, there will be an eco-friendly art show presented by Charleston Art Magazine and a Green Expo at 10 Storehouse Row with sustainability tips from companies, non-profits and developers who know the most about going green. For more information visit www. charlestonchamber.net.

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s a society, we often resort to extreme measures attempting to live up to the “cleanliness is next to godliness” mantra. There are countless specialized cleaners to disinfect, to shine, and to freshen every conceivable surface, nook, and cranny in our household. But it’s not only the number of household cleaners stocked on store shelves that leaves consumers feeling dizzy. While conventional cleaners whiten our whites and sparkle our tiles, they can also irritate our eyes, skin, sinuses, and lungs. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that the air inside our homes can be two to five times more polluted than air outdoors, largely because of household cleaners. Many cleaning products contain cancer-causing agents and are harmful to the environment. The US Department of Health and Human Services maintains an informative (and alarming) listing of cleaning products by brand name, along with their potential health effects. But as your grandmother intuitively knew, there are ways to effectively clean your home without leaving a trail of hazardous waste behind. Only about 20% of the chemicals found in conventional cleaners have even been tested for adverse health affects, and statistics give cause for concern. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that each year, around 150,000 Americans are treated in emergency rooms for injuries associated with household chemicals, and young kids are the primary victims. In addition to the health impact

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in our homes, chemicals in many soaps and cleaners are polluting our waterways and disrupting our aquatic ecosystem. There are two main routes you can take in order to ditch hazardous cleaning products: Natural Cleaning Products: there are several lines of allnatural, non-toxic cleaning products that are available at stores such as DwellSmart, Whole Foods, and Earthfare. Many of these ‘green cleaning’ products are available in concentrated formulas (shipping water is a waste of plastic and fuel) so you can add water at home and often save a lot of money. “Brew Your Own” Cleaning Products: you can do almost all of your cleaning with a few basic essentials (including baking soda, white vinegar, olive oil, essential oils for fragrance, and plain old H2O) and some recipes. DwellSmart has do-ityourself cleaning kits, as well as several books with recipes to help you make your own cleaning products. Get rid of those toxic household cleaners. You can save money by making your own or using concentrated products, and your family will breathe easier! Mary Gatch is an owner of DwellSmart, a one-stop shop for healthy and environmentallyfriendly products. Mary lives on Sullivan’s Island with her husband James, daughter Julian, and son Adam. You can contact her by e-mail at marygatch@dwellsmart. com or by visiting the store at 615 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant (between Eco Fitness and Twin Rivers Bowling).

April 3, 2009

Fitness

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Got spring fever? Treat it wisely By Meredith Nelson, M.Ed

If the President of the United States can find thirty minutes a day to exercise, why can't you?! he days are getting longer; the while getting back into your sport. Frequency, temperature is on the rise. Finally, intensity, and duration are all ways to you want to get outdoors and get some increase your effort level in one particular exercise! Suddenly, weekend warriors are activity. I’ll use running as an example . . . setting out to conquer the world – and their instead of adding one more run each week, recently acquired winter weight – on a daily increasing the length of your run on that basis, approaching their exercise goals extra day, and trying to make that run faster, with a newfound vim and vigor. The April choose only one of these modalities. On your 4 Cooper River Bridge Run has crept up extra day, run the same distance or less than on many runners-in-training, and they are usual at your normal pace, or forgo the extra frantically trying to put in the miles they feel day altogether and incorporate a day of speed are necessary to “get over it”. work; maybe make one of your current runs Unfortunately, such enthusiasm to get longer than normal. In other words, choose in shape and lose weight can be the cause to increase the duration or the intensity, or of many injuries. Doing too much too soon increase the frequency with an extra day. can result in aches and pains. Some are reflects the change in seasons. Warmer Frequency, Intensity, and Time . . . the “FIT” diagnosed and treated, but some are left to weather warrants clothing that breathes principle can be applied to most sports. resolve (hopefully) on their own. Either way, easily and wicks moisture away. Don’t forget Should you have any questions about such injuries can be a large setback in one’s to inspect your shoes for wear and tear – the easing into your spring training, you may fitness routine or training. same running shoes that took you to the gym want to invest in the services of a qualified To avoid the injuries that may sideline you during the winter may not carry you into professional to get you going again. Case in during this glorious time to be outdoors, there spring, or make it over the bridge without the point – PrimeTime Fitness will be offering our are a few things to keep in mind. Remember potential for shin splints, plantar fasciitis, annual Boot Camp in May – a month-long to start out slow and gradually increase knee pain, or other various maladies. program designed to get you beach ready by your efforts, and you’ll be proud of the goals You may not be used to working up a sweat, June 1. But before Boot Camp there is Spring you can achieve: instead of cheering others but with the warmer temperatures you will Training: a less intense program offered in on as they cross the finish line or shed the be losing more water than you are used to. April that will help you ease back into Boot pounds. Be prepared to drink enough water to replace Camp effectively and injury-free. (By the Before you even set out on your springtime what you lose. The best way to be sure you way, if you want to get a jump-start on your fitness routine, make sure that your clothing are properly hydrated? Make sure your urine spring fitness program, and are dreading the imminent thought of shedding your coveris a pale yellow. If you have been up on the beach this summer, you may be performing one interested in our Spring Training or Boot particular activity Camp programs. Contact me at 883-0101.) As you can see, “spring fever” can be treated indoors all winter – maybe yoga, spinning, effectively with a little common sense. So or kickboxing – spring get out there and feed your fever with a little is a great time to exercise! challenge your body Meredith Nelson, M.Ed, is the owner of and try something PrimeTime Fitness, Inc, on Sullivan’s Island. new. After becoming Offering group fitness classes, PrimeTime accustomed to Spin, private yoga, personal training, and certain moves, similar monthly gym membership, Meredith divides activities, and repeated her time between the gym on Sullivan’s Island intensities, your body and limited in-home training on Daniel Island, may better respond where she resides along with her husband to a change in your Mark. Meredith can be reached with your workouts. fitness questions at 883-0101, or Meredith@ Even if you are a primetimefit.net. trained athlete, you should take it easy

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Friday, April 3 CSO Backstage Pass: Yuriy Bekker  The show starts at 7pm at Memminger Auditorium 56 Beaufain Street, Downtown. Tickets are $25 (general admission); $5 students (with ID) and can be purchased through Ticketmaster at 554-6060, at all Ticketmaster Outlets and at www. charlestonsymphony.com.

Saturday, April 4 Folly Beach editor and Lucky Dog News assistant editor Ali Akhyari gets married!

April 3, 2009

Music at Morgan Creek Rene Russell & Gary Hewitt from 6pm to10pm. on the Upper Deck at Morgan creek Grill. 80 41st Ave. Isle of Palms. 886-8980.

VFW Fish Fry From 6 - 9pm at VFW 3137 next to the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms. $7 ticket includes fish, hush puppies, cole slaw baked beans, and red rice. Proceeds go toward Veteran support charities.

Charleston Jazz Orchestra Charleston’s best big band performs selections from Count Basie at Charleston City Music Hall. For more information or to purchase season tickets, call 564-5154 or email [email protected]. For regular tickets, call Charleston Music Hall at 8532252.

Sullivan’s Island with Dr. Porcher The walks will be held at 10am and 2pm and will last approximately 90 minutes. Meet at the Sand Dunes Club, 1735 Atlantic Ave. Call Susan or Larry Middaugh at 883-3034 for reservations or email [email protected].

Sunday, April 5 Mikel Foundation Oyster Roast An Oyster Roast benefiting the Mikel Foundation will be held on April 5 on Goldbug Island. Entertainment will be provided by the Nashville Songwriters Tour and the Blue Dogs. The Roast starts at 3pm and tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. The maximum family fee is $60 in advance and $70 at the door. They can be purchased at www. mikelfoundation.com or by calling 883-8883. Charleston Symphony Orchestra with Barbara Kilduff At 4pm at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Maestro David Stahl presents an operatic afternoon with the CSO and former MET performer coloratura soprano Barbara Kilduff singing favorite arias from Strauss, Mozart, Bizet, Lehar, and Delibes. This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available at Kiawah Town Hall, 843-768-9166.  

Monday, April 6 Setback lines public hearing DHEC-OCRM will be hosting a public hearing to reveal their proposed revisions to the baseline and 40-year setback line for Dewees Island, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Kiawah Island. The proposed new lines are also available for download from their website

Is l a nd E y e

April 3 at: www.scdhec.gov/environment/ ocrm/permit/beachfront.htm. The public hearing will be held at the Charleston Office located at 1362 McMillan Avenue, Suite 400 at 6pm.

Wednesday, April 8 Café Medley “over the hump” wine tasting  From 6pm to 9pm. Purchase your own Cafe Medley wine glass for $10 and your first tasting is free! Bring your wine glass, and all future tastings are only $5. A selection of 3 cheeses is $10 while 5 cheeses is $15. For more information, call Café Medley at 793-4055. Located at 2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island.

Thursday, April 9 First day of Passover

Friday, April 10 Good Friday Painted Blue book signing Join local Isle of Palms author Laura Fogerty for a signing of her book Painted Blue at Island Time, located at JC Long Boulevard on IOP, starting at 6pm.

Saturday, April 11 Civil War concert at Fort Moultrie The 8th Georgia Band will play a free concert featuring Civil War period music at Fort Moultrie from 1pm to 3pm. This event will commemorate the 148th anniversary of the start of the Civil War. Fort Moultrie is located at 1214 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. For more info, call Historian Rick Hatcher at (843) 883-3123 x 22.

brunch

Friday-Sunday 8am - 2pm

883-5030

2213-B Middle Street Sullivan’s Island www.seelsfishcamp.com IE320

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April 3, 2009

13

e C ale n d ar

- April 17

Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting Street. Call (843)579-9922 or visit our website at www.charlestonhorticulturalsociety.org.

Tuesday, April 14

Earth Day Recycling Adventure at Caw Caw Starting at 2pm, make fish crafts out of soda cans and more! Registration required by April 9; call 928-3368. Free. Caw Caw Interpretive Center, 5821 Hwy. 17 N, Awendaw. Isle of Palms Easter Egg Hunt Starting at 10am sharp at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department on 28th Ave. The Easter Egg Hunt is for children 12 years and under. The Hunt will also feature the East bunny, Jump castles and candy. FREE. For more information, call the Recreation Department at 8868294. Sullivan’s Easter Egg Hunt Starting at 12 noon, come by the Poe Library on Sullivan’s Island for an Easter egg hunt on the front lawn. For more info, call the Library at 883-3914. Music at Morgan Creek Rene Russell & Gary Hewitt from 6pm to10pm. on the Upper Deck at Morgan creek Grill. 80 41st Ave. Isle of Palms. 886-8980.

Sunday, April 12 Happy Easter!

Monday, April 13 Living the Lush Life: Exotic Perennials that Beat the Heat Whether grown in the ground or in containers, these attention grabbers will bring beauty and interest to the garden year after year and throughout the seasons. Presented by Andy Cabe, Curator of Horticulture, Riverbanks Botanical Garden. Free to Charleston Horticultural Society members and $15 for non members. 6:30pm at the

Kid’s day at Seel’s Drop by Seel’s Fish Camp for the best kid’s deal in town. Every Tuesday, enjoy 99 cent kid’s meals and children’s movies on the big screen. For more information, please call 883-5030.

Wednesday, April 15

Located at 2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island.

Friday, April 17 5th Battle of Charleston From April 17 – 19. Presented by the 27th SCVI and Legare Farms. Adults $10 and children 5-12, $5. Children under 5 are free. For more information, please visit www.battleofchas.com. Folly Beach Moonlight Mixer Dance the night away under the stars at the Folly Beach

Tax Day Charleston Tea Party As part of a national grassroots effort to protest out-of-control big government spending, the Charleston Tax Day Tea Party will be held at The Windjammer on the Isle of Palms from 5pm – 10pm, with brief remarks and a symbolic “pouring of the tea” to take place at 6pm. All are welcome to this free, non-partisan event.   For more information, please call Julia Winker at 737-1503. East Cooper Caregiver support meeting From 9:30-10:30am, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 2107 Hwy. 17 North.  These support meetings are designed to bring individuals together to share common issues, concerns, problems and solutions that may arise during the course of providing care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or a related memory disorder.  For more information, please call Ginger at 810-5576. Café Medley “over the hump” wine tasting  From 6pm to 9pm. Purchase your own Cafe Medley wine glass for $10 and your first tasting is free! Bring your wine glass, and all future tastings are only $5. A selection of 3 cheeses is $10 while 5 cheeses is $15. For more information, call Café Medley at 793-4055.

Friday Fish Fry Fresh flounder, hushpuppies and coleslaw only

$9.95 During March we will be offering the Friday Night Fish Fry all day long.

Join us for March Madness!

All the Collage games all month long www.islandeyenews.com

Fishing Pier with the return of the popular Moonlight Mixers. From 7pm – 11pm, local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around.  Advance tickets are $10 and $8 for Charleston County residents.  If available, tickets purchased on-site are $10.  Only 600 tickets will be sold for this event.  Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

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April 3, 2009

22nd Annual Blessing of the Fleet

ome celebrate the historic on Tuesday, April 21 from 6:30 – 8:30pm (theme: Lowcountry Shrimp Mount Pleasant shrimping Painting) and Thursday, April 23 industry with the traditional from 6:30 – 8:30pm (theme: Blessing Blessing of the Fleet ceremony and of the Fleet Painting). shrimp boat parade, along with Taste of Shem Creek other fun family activities including Saturday, April 25 face painting, arts and crafts shows, Come to Red’s Ice House on Shem a shrimp eating contest, a shag Creek to enjoy items freshly caught dance contest, nature and marine in the creek and prepared by our exhibits and much more.  Live local shrimp boat captains. Food music will be performed by the East tickets available for purchase. Call Coast Party Band and participating 388-0003. local restaurants will offer seafood Blessing of the Fleet Sunset and and other fare for purchase. Funds Shagging Cruise raised will benefit the SC Shrimpers Saturday, April 25, 7:30 – 9:30pm. Association. Cruise leaves from Patriots Point. This year, for the first time ever, Shrimp boats pass by the shore of Alhambra Hall during the 21st Annual Town of Join the Blessing of the Fleet (BOTF) the week leading up to Sunday’s Mount Pleasant Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival. committee for an evening cruise on Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood the “Spirit of the Lowcountry”. Fine Festival will hold a number of other “fleet” Von Kolnitz Road). Presentations by Tressy tune your shagging moves for the BOTF shag Mellichamp of the local Magwood shrimping related activities. contest on Sunday. Music provided by the family, committee member of the Blessing of Jim Bowers DJ Group. Tickets: $18. Make the Fleet and Seafood Festival and co-author your prepaid reservations with Spiritline Schedule for the 2009 Fleet Week: of East Cooper: A Maritime History, and DaCruises at 722-BOAT (2628) or 800-789Whole Foods Cooking Presentation vid Whitaker, deputy director of DNR. Free 3678. Reserve your space early as this event Wednesday, April 22, 6pm. event. will sell out in advance! Adults only. Enjoy a free cooking presentation at the Create a Masterpiece – The Week of the Mount Pleasant Whole Foods Market locaFor more information on the Blessing of the Fleet tion (923 Houston Northcutt Blvd.). Call Fleet and Seafood Festival or the activities Come to Bottles ‘N Brushes to paint a 971-7240 or visit www.wholefoods.com. Free during “Fleet Week”, please contact the event’s themed painting for the Week of the Fleet: event. coordinator, Community Development Event located within walking distance to Shem Shem Creek – A History of the Creek and Creek at 424 Broadway Street (Orchard Planner Su McManus-Frost at 884-8517. Shrimping Plaza), Mount Pleasant. Reservations sugWednesday, April 22, 10am. gested: 345-7365. Fee: $35. Refreshments Photo by Red Zeppelin Aerial Photography Mount Pleasant Senior Services Center (840 from the cover photo by Sarah Reynolds available. Adults only. Classes will be held

Last chance for oysters

Mikel Foundation Oyster Roast An Oyster Roast benefiting the Mikel Foundation will be held on April 5 on Goldbug Island. Entertainment will be provided by the Nashville Songwriters Tour, which features legendary songwriters JP Williams, Sabrina Murdaugh, James Casto and Joe West.  Local favorites the Blue Dogs will also be in the house around 4 pm. The Roast starts at 3pm and tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. The maximum family fee is $60 in advance and $70 at the door. They can be purchased at www. themikelfoundation.com or by calling the foundation at 8838883. The Mikel Foundation is a public charity organization founded in 1997 for the purpose of helping children and families of children with genetic disorders. The Foundation provides money

for the private purchase of wheelchairs, orthotics, gait trainers and various other types of adaptive equipment, as well as for genetic research. Often the purchase of such equipment poses a financial burden to families, since many of these expenditures are not covered under a family’s insurance plan or the remaining co-payment exceeds a family’s budget or abilities. The Foundation was started by Bill Danielson and his wife Carol in honor of their son, Mikel. Mikel was born with a severe genetic disorder and has been in a wheelchair his whole life. Even still, Mikel has been an inspiration to his family and to so many others. And since it’s beginning, The Mikel Foundation has delivered hope to many in need. www.islandeyenews.com

April 3, 2009

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Going green with Daniel Island Mortgage

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aniel Island Mortgage (DIM) is joining in on the national green movement with full force. Since founding Daniel Island Mortgage in 2004, President Gary Harwyn has strived to develop a unique approach to the mortgage business, and about a year ago, he found it. Daniel Island Mortgage is introducing the first Energy Efficient Mortgage product as the nation’s first myEnergyLoan local provider. myEnergyLoan, founded by Jeff Cole, is an association of lenders providing discounted closing costs and lower interest rates when buyers purchase energy efficient homes. Their team of realtors, lenders, and builders strive to find buyers a home that is built smarter, with green building practices. “One of the things that really excited me when I learned about green mortgages was simply that it had to do with the environment, and I understand environmental issues because I have an environmental background,” says Harywn. With a degree in geography and a concentration in urban planning and environmental sciences, Harwyn once worked for an environmental consulting firm for six and a half years as an environmental scientist. He started his career in mortgages in 2001 and began moving away from environmental issues on a

By Brittany Urbach professional level, while moving toward them in the financial sector. “I’ve now gotten to a point where my two professional experiences have begun to cross paths,” says Harwyn. “I really didn’t think I’d be incorporating green financing back into my mortgage office this soon. But once it occurred to me that these two things were congruent with each other, I got really excited. I love working on environmental issues, and I love working to develop a better mortgage product. So, to me, it’s really about combining passions.” “But in essence what the energy efficient mortgage (EEM) is designed to do, is to help people qualify,” says Harwyn. “It allows the savings that would come from energy efficient improvements to be counted toward your income. So, if you’re saving $100 a month on energy upgrades, DIM will count that toward your income. They’ll also allow up to 5% on an FHA loan of energy efficient improvements above the standard purchasing price. So in essence, this product allows you to get a little more money above what you would normally get.” Unfortunately, there’s not a lot happening with the program right now. The problem is that no one really understands the product, says Harwyn.

Harwyn located myEnergyLoan through Eco Brokers, and “saw that Jeff (Cole) really had a product and a program that was authentic, reliable and easy to implement,” says Harywn. “And he was in the process of beginning to roll this out on a national level.” Cole believes in focusing on the triple bottom line: The focus on the investment, the environmental impact your business makes, and the social community impact your company makes. “We want to try to circulate dollars back through local providers and local businesses because it will circulate about six times more than you would if you did business with a large bank or store, because all that money gets exported,” says Harwyn. “So, we want to try and work locally and work with local providers.” On a much larger scale, Cole is looking to use myEnergyLoan as the platform for state energy efficient loans. He is working to bring myEnergyLoan to a national level by introducing it to Fannie Mae, and many other lenders around the country. DIM and myEnergyLoan are working toward separating energy efficient loans from the rest of the mortgage sub pools of prime loans. In addition to separating energy efficient loans from other mortgage loans, myEnergyLoan and DIM want lenders to recognize that this is a lower risk borrower. “People want to stay in their homes longer when they’re healthier and they make an investment toward energy efficiency,” says Harwyn. “There’s more value in these homes, and most importantly, the clients are saving a lot of money on their bills through energy efficiency, so their likelihood of default is much lower. This is really a lower risk pool and we want to prove that and try to develop a track record.” Unlike FHA loans, which are extremely limited in size and who can qualify, myEnergyLoan works with all buyers whose buildings qualify. Whether the buyer has

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a residential or commercial building, as long as that building qualifies, that buyer will qualify for myEnergyLoan and receive a credit. “It’s real simple,” says Harwyn. “If the home meets a HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rating of 80 or less, net zero being the best, it means your home is basically producing as much energy as it is using, and potentially selling back to the grid. If you score at 80 or less, you’re going to start at half a point. As you go up in efficiency levels, you get more rebates back from us in the form of an energy credit.” A typical home in South Carolina is going to score a HERS rating of anywhere between 150 to about 225, says Harwyn. Harwyn encourages homeowners to begin making green upgrades to their homes. Paying in cash, credit card, or receiving an unsecured loan, though, can be extremely expensive. “By bringing the mortgage into the mix, you have the opportunity to kind of kill two birds with one stone,” says Harwyn. “You could lower your existing interest rate, and at the same time look to pull cash out of the home if there’s equity to do these upgrades, which will be tax deductable. It’s a great time to start doing these upgrades with current interest rates.” If you’re interested in how much energy your home is using, hire a HERS rater to find out your rating. They have proprietor software they use to test your home for energy efficiency. They’ll also provide you with a current rating for your home, an a la carte menu of places for improvement, and actions you can take to lower your score. Having your home rated by HERS runs anywhere from about $200 - $500 depending on the square footage. To learn more about Daniel Island Mortgage and their Energy Efficient Mortgage product, visit them on the web at www. danielislandmortgage.com.

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April 3, 2009

War and Wardrobe

Island Easter services Sunrise Presbyterian Maundy Thursday: 7pm Service Good Friday: 7:30 pm “Service of Shadows” Easter Sunday: 6:30am Sunrise Service - this service is held outside so we always tell everyone to dress comfortably/for the weather and bring their own chair! We will have Easter Sunday services at 9am and 11am in our Sanctuary. Sunrise Presbyterian Church is located at 3222 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. For more information, call 883-3888. IOP Methodist Church Good Friday: Noon - Stations of the Cross (weather permitting on the Beach at 21st Avenue) Easter Sunday: 8:15am and 11am Traditional Service Sanctuary, 9:30am Praise/Communion Service – Fellowship Hall. First United Methodist Church located at 21st Avenue at Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms. For additional information call Church Office 886-6610 or www.iopmethodist. com. Isle of Palms Baptist Easter Sunday: 10:30am Worship service Isle of Palms Baptist is located at 14th-24th Avenue, Isle of Palms. For additional information call 886-6762. St. Marks Lutheran Good Friday: 12-3pm Hours of Darkness Vigil - a rotating service that can be joined at any time between 12pm and 3pm. 6:30pm Good Friday Worship Holy Saturday: 6:30pm Vigil Easter Sunday: 9am Pot Luck

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n Saturday, March 28, Fort Moultrie held a special, one-time presentation of clothing from 1860 to 1865 called “War and Wardrobe”. Volunteers were clothed in various dresses, from servants clothing to formal ball gowns. The program was held in recognition of Women’s History Month and was presented by Ms. Mary G. Hatcher and Ms. Jean R. Hutchinson.

Brunch, 10am Easter Egg Hunt. St. Marks Lutheran is located at 300 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms. For more information, call 8868557. Stella Maris Catholic Good Friday: 3pm Liturgy of the Word 7pm Stations of the Cross Holy Saturday: 8pm Easter Vigil Easter Sunday: 8am, 9:30am and 11am Simultaneous Masses in church and hall 5:30pm Latin Mass Stella Maris Catholic is located at 1204 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. For more information, call 883-3108. Church of the Holy Cross Episcopal Maundy Thursday: 7pm in Traditional Building Good Friday: 12pm service in Historic Church Easter Sunday: 8am Rite 1 in Historic Church, 9:15am Children’s Family Service in Traditional Building, 10am Easter Egg Hunt for all children, 11am Rite 1 in Traditional Church. Simultaneously, Rite 2 Contemporary Service in Great Hall. Church of the Holy Cross Episcopal is located at 2520 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. For additional information, call 8833586. Sullivan’s Island Baptist Church Easter Sunday: 10:45am Easter Service. Sullivan’s Island Baptist Church is located at 1753 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. For more information, call 883-3601.

Jones-Tucker engagement announcement

Mr. and Mrs. William Scott Bill Tucker of Macon, Georgia. Jones of Charlotte, North Carolina, His fraternal grandmother is announce the engagement of their Peggie “Honey” Tucker, formerly daughter, Callie Anne Jones, to of Lake Sinclair, Georgia, and Clifford Allen Tucker, Jr., son of currently residing in Mount Al and Linda Tucker of the Isle of Pleasant, South Carolina. Mr. Tucker earned Palms, South a Bachelor of Carolina. Miss Jones is the Science degree in Business granddaughter Administration of Mr. James Benge and the - Management late Jean Benge from the of Houston, University of South Carolina. Texas, and He is a Sales Mrs. Faydelle Jones and Consultant for Berchtold the late Mr. Corporation. Gene Jones of Tyler, Texas. The wedding She earned a is planned for Bachelor of April 25, 2009, at Myers Park Science degree Callie Jones and Clifford Tucker. Presbyterian from Virginia Tech University and is in sales Church in Charlotte, North with Brentwood Homes. Allen Carolina. The couple will reside Tucker is the grandson of the in St. Louis, Missouri, after their late Bruce and Ina Lovvorn of honeymoon in the Dominican LaGrange, Georgia, and the late Republic.

www.islandeyenews.com

April 3, 2009

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Golf

Of hot and cold porridge and caddying

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he history of the golf caddie is imprecise at best. Most point to the 1500’s when Mary, Queen of Scots, played golf at a course supposedly built for her by the King of France. To guard her while she played, the King hired military cadets to watch over her. Mary brought this custom back to Scotland. In French, cadet is pronounced “ca-day”. Cadets soon became “caddies”, simply because of the Scottish pronunciation. There are other theories of the origin of the name, including the Welsh term “cad”, which is a “battle”, “contest”, or “test”. At least we can credit the French for something positive when it comes to golf instead of the single greatest collapse on the final hole of an Open Championship - Jean VanDeVelve anyone? Recently, I had the experience of playing with three very different caddies at some rather nice courses. [Note to readers: I am fully aware that when it comes to golf, I am spoiled. I have very good friends]. Not the forecaddie who rides on the back of your cart routine, but a real caddie, carrying my clubs, part of my

By Richard Hricik

team. That’s the ideal - a close confidant on the course who provides assistance and who is working for your success. Part counselor, part swing guru, a caddy is a steady and loyal presence during the maelstrom of 18 holes, and at a minimum has to know and be able to impart local course knowledge. So in reflecting upon these rounds and my respective caddy experiences, I realized it began to take on the form of Goldilocks and the three bears: Caddy #1 we’ll call the Master of the Obvious. Nice guy; knew little or nothing about golf, but at least was pleasant company. Caddy #2 we’ll call AT&T as he was phoning it in from the moment we teed off, but was certainly interested in the payoff. Caddy #3, well, he defined what it meant to be a caddy and never have I had such an enjoyable experience. The introductions went

something like this: C1 - If I do anything that bothers you, please let me know. C2 - You know the tip is not included in the price. C3 - Let’s have us a good round. Interactions during the round went like this: Me - Will that shot be safe there? C1 - I don’t know, depends on how far you hit it. C2 - Who knows, but it really slows down play when you have to look for balls. C3 Has to be, and even if it isn’t you can get it up and down from there. Me - Can you read this putt for me? How much break to the left do you think is there? C1- Well it definitely breaks left. C2- [While polishing his sunglasses] All speed, depends upon how hard you hit it. C3- See that spot, go at that firm and it should find the hole. Me - Driver or fairway wood here? C1 - Well, it depends on how far you want to hit it. C2 - Hit whichever you think you’ll hit best. C3 - Longer doesn’t help

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as much as it might hurt. You’ve been hitting your fairway woods strong, just do it one more time. Me - I can’t seem to find my rhythm today. C1- It happens. C2 - You say something? C3 - You’re trying too hard. Slow it down a little and lighten your grip. Walking up the 18th fairway, they offered their reflections on the round. C1 – Thanks for all the pointers you gave me, I think it’ll help when I caddy the next time. C2 - Did I mention that the tip is not included? C3 - Finish strong. You played well today and I enjoyed being a part of it. Some caddies don’t know enough; some caddies don’t care; but some caddies are just right. And he golfed happily ever after. Until next time, play well. Richard is a golf enthusiast, local lawyer and part-time writer seeking publication of a novel about golf. Contact him at [email protected]. ©2008 Richard Hricik.

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April 3, 2009

Great Blue Heron

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By Sarah Dargan Harper

he Great Blue Heron is found year-round in the Southeastern US in salt and fresh water marshes and around ponds and lakes. They are waders and feed mostly on fish and small invertebrates. Migratory populations spend their summers in Canada and the northern US and winter as far South as Central America. These are our largest herons and can be up to four feet tall (with necks extended) and have a wingspan of six feet. They often nest in large colonies, known as rookeries, alongside egrets, ibises, and anhingas. Islands within small ponds are ideal sites for rookeries, since alligators offer protection from raccoons that prey on the eggs and young. Of course, if the young happen to fall into the ponds, they are fair

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Give a hoot!

game for the alligators! Great Blue Herons are often confused with Little Blue Herons or Tri-colored Herons. Remember that the latter two have a deeper blue color and are noticeably smaller, while Great Blues are quite large and are a dull gray. Great Blue fledglings are completely light brown while juveniles and adults are grey with some brown on the neck. When they reach sexual maturity, they grow plumes on their heads and chests, such as the handsome bird in my picture, which I took at the Pitt Street Bridge. You have probably heard these herons’ loud, hoarse calls, which sound like a mix between a bark and a croak.

photo By Sarah Dargan Harper

Rise above with Surfrider

or the past 20 years, the Surfrider foundation has been dedicated to protecting the oceans and beaches of the world. Doing their part to further the mission, the Charleston Chapter of Surfrider has most recently kicked off an “AntiPlastics Campaign” designed to encourage the use of reusable alternatives instead of plastic bags and water bottles that often end up as trash in our marine environments. As part of the campaign, Charleston Surfrider has starting making reusable bags and water bottles more accessible to the public. These bags and bottles are environmentally friendly alternatives to the “convenient” plastic bags and water bottles we are used to getting at grocery stores and other establishment. Every plastic bag that remains unused is a plastic bag that will not end up in our marshes, beaches or oceans. It is a bag that won’t suffocate a sea turtle or fish. According to the Rise Above Plastics organization, over 500 billion plastic bags are consumed every year with only about

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photo by Barbara Bergwerf

ary Pringle and Barbara Bergwerf of the Island Turtle Team spotted this little guy sitting in one of the nests along the Isle of Palms Connector. Great Horned Owls are common across the US. They have large ear tufts, a reddish, brown or gray face and a white patch on the throat. The iris is yellow, except the amber-eyed South American Great Horned Owl (B. v. nacurutu). Its “horns” are neither ears nor horns, simply tufts of feathers. The underparts are light with brown barring; the upper parts are mottled brown.

three percent being recycled. In addition, the amount of petroleum used to make 13 bags is comparable to the amount used by a car to travel one mile. These bags are usually only used for a few minutes to transport items from the store to a car and then into a home. The environmental cost, however, lasts much longer. Since bottled water has become so popular, plastic bottles have become a huge environmental weight as well. On April 3 and April 17, Charleston’s Surfrider organization will be making it easy for grocery shoppers to start having a positive impact on the environment by reducing the amount of plastic we use as human beings. Representatives will be at our local Harris Teeter on James Island, as well as Mount Pleasant and Downtown Charleston, selling reusable shopping bags and water bottles from 5pm-7pm. By making a point to do your grocery shopping at that time, you can cross some items off your grocery list and help to make our world a better place to live. Join Surfrider in rising above plastic. www.islandeyenews.com

April 3, 2009

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Insuring our history

n February 10, Michael Bedenbaugh, Director of the Palmetto Trust (State Partner to the National Trust for Historic Preservation), visited James Island and Folly Beach. He met with officials for both communities and visited several historic places of interest and several sites; some already on the National Register. Mr. Bedenbaugh spoke to the Folly Beach City Council. The presentation was an in-depth look at Historic Districts. Mayor Carl Beckmann and the Council members are to be commended for giving the community an opportunity to have such an expert available to answer questions. Toni Connor-Rooks, the Administrator for the City of Folly Beach, reports that there are plans to move forward with a Historic District for the City of Folly Beach. While creating historic districts and designating properties as historic goes a long way to protecting and honoring our island histories, insuring a property that has been designated historic can be a bit of burden. Fortunately, there is help. While I can not claim to be an expert in this field, the National Trust for Historic Preservation can help you get your historic property insured through their National

By Mia Burmeister-Laws

Trust Insurance Services (NTIS), which was created to fill a substantial need within the preservation community. Regular home owners insurance may not be enough for the owner of an historic home. According to NTIS, many owners of historic homes have serious gaps in their insurance coverage as a result. NTIS specializes in insurance programs working with individual historic properties, non-profit organizations, and small businesses. They will work with you and insurance companies to make sure you have the proper coverage for your historic property. For more information about the National Trust for Historic Preservation or their National Trust Insurance Services visit:www.preservation.org or www. nationaltrust-insurance.org

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On a fun note, I recently visited Nina Logan at her cottage on Folly Beach. What a treat! She has done a beautiful job on the renovations of the interior. The original character of the bead board throughout the home is painted a perfect “beachy” green and encourages relaxation from the moment you enter. Do you remember the days when you would go to the beach and there were those shower stalls with the concrete floors and louvered doors – such a fifties beach kind of thing. Well, that is what Nina has downstairs; perfectly preserved in her Folly Beach home. What a great and nostalgic way to end a day at the beach.

See you around Charleston! Keller Williams Historic Charleston, 35 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401Mia@ RealEstateMIA.com or call me at 843810-1000. View my websites at www. HistoricAndIslandHomes.com or www. RealEstateMIA.com

Charleston Tax Day Tea Party

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n tax day of this year, the Lowcountry Young Republicans and the Charleston County Republican Party will host the largest anti-tax tea party ever held in the Charleston area. As part of a national grassroots effort to protest out-of-control big  government spending, the Charleston Tax Day Tea Party is expected to attract more than 500 members of the general public. It will be held at The Windjammer on the Isle of Palms on the evening of Apri, 15 from 5 - 10pm, with brief remarks and a symbolic "pouring of the tea" to take place at 6pm.  Several prominent political figures and community leaders are expected to attend, as well as area Republican and non-partisan groups, and members of the general public.   All are welcome to this free, non-partisan event.   The Windjammer is located at 1008 Ocean Boulevard on the Isle of Palms Front Beach. For more information, please call Julia Winker, media coordinator for the Lowcountry Young Republicans, at 7371503.

Lucky Dog Name(s): Olivia and Noble Owner(s): Dave Leibowitz (Olivia) and Nancy Price (Noble) Hometown/birthplace: Jedburg, SC (Olivia) and Spruce Pines,NC (Noble) Age: 9 months (Olivia) and 1 year (Noble) Veterinarian: Animal Medical Center Favorite food/treat: Olivia loves peanut butter and Noble will eat anything, but his favorite food is Dingos. Favorite toy: Olivia loves whatever she can get her teeth in to (and is not supposed to) and Noble loves palm fronds. Why Olivia is lucky … Dave says that he’s the lucky one. She’s a lucky dog because she has so many friends. She loves to go to the IOP dog park which is where she met her true love, Noble.

Sullivan's from the sky

Why Noble is lucky …

This beautiful arial view of Sullivan's Island Elementary and the surrounding neighborhood was taken by Leo Fetter during his first day of training as a lighthouse guide for the Sullivan's lighthouse.

Noble is loved by all and loves everyone! He goes to the doggie park every day and plays will all of his friends, especially his “special” friend, Olivia, a great Pyrenees. Noble lives inside with his family and has two pet kittens, lots of stuffed toys and lots of Olivia and Noble, two lucky dogs. treats!

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April 3, 2009

The Decorated Easter Egg The egg is nature’s perfect package. It has, during the span of history, represented mystery, magic, medicine, food and omen. It is the universal symbol of Easter celebrations throughout the world and has been dyed, painted, adorned and embellished in the celebration of its special symbolism. Before the egg became closely entwined with the Christian Easter, it was honored during many rite-of-Spring festivals. The Romans, Gauls, Chinese, Egyptians and Persians all cherished the egg as a symbol of the universe. From ancient times eggs were dyed, exchanged and shown reverence. In Pagan times the egg represented the rebirth of the earth. The long, hard winter was over; the earth burst forth and was reborn just as the egg miraculously burst forth with life. The egg, therefore, was believed to have special powers. It was buried under the foundations of buildings to ward off evil; pregnant young Roman women carried an egg on their persons to foretell the sex of their unborn children; French brides stepped upon an egg before crossing the threshold of their new homes. With the advent of Chrisianity, the symbolism of the egg changed to represent, not nature’s rebirth, but the rebirth of man. Christians embraced the egg symbol and likened it to the tomb from which Christ rose.

Decorating and coloring eggs for Easter was the custom in England during the middle ages. The household accounts of Edward I, for the year 1290, recorded an expenditure of eighteen pence for four hundred and fifty eggs to be gold-leafed and colored for Easter gifts. Ornamental egg designers believe in the symbolism of the egg and celebrate the egg by decorating it with superb artistry. Some use flowers and leaves from greeting cards, tiny cherubs, jewels and elegant fabrics, braids and trims, to adorn the eggs. They are separated, delicately hinged and glued with epoxy and transparent cement. When completed, they are covered with a glossy resin finish. Although the omens and the mystery of the egg have disappeared today, the symbolism remains, and artists continue in the old world tradition of adorning eggs.

Eye Spy Do you know what this is?

Kids, please send your guess for this week’s Eye Spy to info@ luckydognews.com. Please include your mailing address with your submission. The winner will receive a coupon for a free ice cream at Café Medley on Sullivan's Island.

Price Nimmich guessed that the last Eye Spy was an IOP trash can and won a free ice cream cone from Cafe Medley!

www.islandeyenews.com

April 3, 2009

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www.iop.net 843-886-8294

Isle of Palms Rec Center

Tae Kwon Do (12Yrs. +) Lower belt: Mon, 6:30-7:30pm and Wed, 7-7:45pm Brown/Black belt: Wed, 7:459:15pm, Sat 10am-12pm $35 resident/$40 non-resident/ per month Canasta 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month 11:30am-2:30pm. Free

Total Body Challenge Tues thru Fri, 8-9am Everyday a different challenge $7 per class or purchase # of classes Easter Egg Hunt Sat, April 11 , 10am SHARP 12 Yrs. & under East bunny, Jump castles, candy. FREE

Mat & Floor Wed, 1:45-2:45pm 50+ Yrs. Focusing on Pilates, floor exercises, $10 per class/or pay for the session. Mommy & Me Wednesdays, (except the 1st Wednesday of the month) Toddlers, 3Yrs. & under accompanied by an adult-play and socialize. 9:30am -11:30am FREE Camp Summershine IOP Registration begins March 30. Non-resident registration begins April 13. Weekly program outlines on www.iop.net under “Recreation” Ping Pong Tournament Saturday, March 21 at 1pm Registration March 2`-`18 Ages 9 to 15 Yrs. $5 each Yoga (16 Yrs. +) 12:30pm to 2pm Tuesdays & Thursdays $80 resident/$85 non-resident/ session $10 per class Sports Conditioning Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:15pm to 6:15pm class $40 resident/$45 non-resident $7 per class Evening Yoga (12 Yrs. +) 5:30pm to 6:30pm Mondays & Wednesdays $60 residents/ $65 non-residents/6 weeks $7 per class

$30 resident/$35 non per session $7 per class drop-in Kinderpuppy New session begins April 27 6:30pm-7:30pm $90 residents/$95 non Must pre-register for class Canine Good Citizenship New session begins April 27 Monday 7:30pm-8:30pm $90 residents/$95 non Must pre-register for class Boater Education Course Saturday, April 25 9am-5pm Must pre-register with SCDNR

Community Yard Sale Saturday, April 18 8am Spaces $5 each Must register by Tues, April 14 AJ Basketball Camp June 22-26 IOP register March 30-April 10 Non-resident register April 13 till full, $180 camp fee $100 ½ day for 5 & 6 Yrs. Ages 5-15 Yrs. Girls Volleyball Camp July 6-10 IOP register March 30-April 10 Non-resident register April 13 till full, $125 camp fee Ages 10-15 Yrs., 9am-12pm

Senior Sports Classic Basketball Shoot April 14th, 10am-12 noon Free. Must pre-register by April 3 Living Well Six week workshop for those with chronic health conditions Thur, 10am-12:30pm New session April 23-May 28 Friday Night Hoops April 17, 6-8pm Ages 7-12 Yrs., $10 per person Open auditions: The Wizard of Oz April 20 & 21, 6:30-9pm Youth and Adults No experience needed

Spring Break activities Monday, April 6 Dodgeball FREE Ages 8-12 Yrs., 10:30am-12 noon Ages 13-16 Yrs., 1:30pm-3pm Pre-register by Friday, April 3 Tuesday, April 7 Frisbee Golf Tournament/ Grand Opening FREE Ages 7-18 Yrs. Check-In 10am Play begins 10:30am Pre-register by April 3 Wednesday, April 8 Kickball Day FREE Ages 8-12 Yrs., 10:30am-12 noon Ages 13-16 Yrs., 1:30pm-3pm Pre-register by April 6 Thursday, April 19 Science Day Ages 6-10 Yrs. 9am-3pm $50 resident/$55 non-resident MUST pre-register by April 6 Minimum of six participants Friday, April 10 Open Gym Day FREE All ages 1pm-3pm Hopscotch, Shuffleboard, Four Square, Basketball, Ping Pong & More Show up and play!

Salsa April 2 –New Session $35 resident/$40 non-resident Call to pre-register Soccer Camp August 3-7 Half day: 5-8 Yrs. Full day: 9-13 Yrs. $125 Half day (9am-12 noon) $200 Full day (9am-3pm) IOP register: March 30-April 10 Non-resident: April 13 –until full Saturday Yoga (12 Yrs. +) Begins April 25 10am-11am

 Co-Ed Volleyball League Champions The Bumpers.

Poe Library events 1921 Ion Ave Sullivan’s Island 883-3914 Hours: Mon & Fri: 2 - 6 Tues, Thur & Sat: 10 - 2 

 

Do it Yourself Easter Crafts April 4, 10:30am-12:30pm Easter Egg Hunt April 11, 12pm

Ping Pong Champions Vivek Pandey, 9-11 Age Division Champion; Gareth Scarpa, 1213 Age Division Champion; and Anderson Scarpa, 14-15 Age Division Champion.

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Do you know your charleston

April 3, 2009

The Bill Moore legacy

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By David Farrow

n another venue, I have commented on the fact that The Post and Courier is treading water while cutting off many of its lifelines. The paper does do death notices well. One thing about living longer than you thought you would is that you pick up page 1-B, and there is another friend gone off to cross the River Jordan. Thus it was on Thursday, March 26, 2009, I saw Robert Behre’s piece on the demise of my friend, Bill Moore. In my long and varied college experience, I ended up at the College of Charleston where I got my degree. My degree is actually kinda useless: political philosophy. As I matriculated at the corner of College and Green streets, I ran across two professors who have influenced me to this very day: Sam Hines and Bill Moore. Dr. Hines is now Provost at the Citadel. Part of my curriculum included Dr. Moore’s Southern Politics class. It was one of the first classes I took after a two-year hiatus. I did well in it simply because I had no choice. When I took the essay midterm, I knew very little, but I could write. I was able to spin what I did know into a tale of comprehension while wandering from the original

question. Eventually I came into a conclusion that seemed to tie it all together. I did this six times on the exam. Much to my surprise, I got an A-. I also got a note, “I let you get away with it, once. You are a diamond in the rough. Don’t you ever try this again!” I took that warning to heart. That was indicative of Bill Moore. He had a keen mind and a sense of fairness, which was in short supply in 1978 Charleston. Probably the coolest thing Bill ever did was infiltrate the Klan to study them. Most of you won’t remember the time before the Goose Creek exit was a main thoroughfare. In the early 70s, Ashley Phosphate Road was not developed, and that exit is how you got to Monck’s Corner. As you turned to get on Highway 52, there was a ratty clapboard house with a large Confederate flag posted on the side of the building. That was Klan headquarters. It is my understanding that Dr. Moore spent the summer with these guys. He came away with the impression that they are dangerous idiots. I don’t know. I think most of us would argue that that they were dangerous simply because they were cretins. Either way, it was a heck of a way to write “How I spent my summer

vacation”. These were different times, paradigms were shifting. Pug Ravenel had already come down from New York to show us “the way” three years earlier. That didn’t work out as well as he had hoped. Bill and I disagreed about Pug’s potential for sainthood. Mr. Ravenel had come down from New York a couple of months before his run for the ’74 S.C. governor’s race. Although he won the Democratic primary, Marion Gressette, one of the old Senate bulls, challenged the residency requirement in the S.C. Supreme Court. If I recall, the law was that a candidate had to live in the state for six months; Pug hadn’t – it was really that simple. Still, there was a brouhaha as well as weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth. One would have thought that Pug had been assassinated – “Oh, Pug, we hardly knew ye.” True, Pug was charismatic, Pug was dynamic – he just didn’t fulfill the residency requirements. Of course, the disenfranchised Democrats stayed home during the general election and Mount Pleasant oral surgeon, Jim Edwards, was elected the first Republican governor since Reconstruction in South

Green Heron gets a makeover

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he Green Heron on Sullivan’s is getting a facelift as new owners Heather and Tim Holbrook repair, replace and remodel the old building from floor to ceiling. New shelves have gone in and one of the most significant changes, a bricked in beer cave, is almost complete. The Holbrooks hope to have the new store open by early May. www.islandeyenews.com

Carolina. Bill would just look at me sadly and shake his head. Well, he was right. Pug kinda screwed the pooch for the Democratic Party for the rest of the decade. Democrats wandered in the wilderness for a few years. That was fine with me. Bill didn’t see it that way. Still, we never let politics get in the way of our friendship. As a matter of fact, around 10 years ago, Dr. Moore asked me to substitute for him on a panel. High praise indeed! Bill Moore was the kind of educator that we both need and lack in our culture. Well-read, well-researched and kind, he touched a generation and was well into his second when he died at age 64. The College of Charleston will be a bit quieter without the sound of his laughter; it will be a tad darker without his light.

David Farrow, Charlestonian.

April 3, 2009

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