Ien Flipbook

Since May 2005

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON, SC PERMIT NO 437

Volume 4 Issue 23 Sullivan’s Island

Shade and a hedgefern: two bits

O

•

March 20, 2009

FREE

Isle of Palms

•

Goat Island • Dewees Island

St Patrick's on Sullivan's

Provided by Susan Wallace

n Saturday, March 28 from 8am-11am, join the Isle of Palms Garden Club for one of the most anticipated “garage” sales of the year. Along with indoor and outdoor furniture, small appliances, books, equipment, decorations and decorative pillows, the Garden Club will also be selling a wide variety of plants that are well-adapted to our sandy southern environment. Garden Club members will bring some of their favorites grown right in their own backyard, including Confederate Rose, Mint and other herbs, Ginger Lily (Hedychium coronarium: a very fragrant flower that can grow to more than three feet tall and enjoy sun to light shade), Mexican Petunia, Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana: a beautiful, hardy plant with bright pink flowers that enjoys full sun or part shade), Crocosmia (iridaceae: a plant with orange/red flowers that enjoys well-drained soil and sun to part sun. Pest free, multiplies rapidly), Shasta Daisy, Salt Marsh Marigold (an Isle of Palms native), Althea (rose of Sharon), Florida Hibiscus, and much more. Prices start at 50 cents, so if you are looking to plant out that dreary front yard bed or just love a good deal, drop by 2870 I’on Ave., Sullivan’s Island for the Isle of Palms Garden Club Local Plant/Garage Sale. The IOP Garden Club uses the funds from this plant/garage sale to support its civic projects to keep Isle of Palms beautiful including: painting the palm trees on the Isle of Palms beach trash barrels; working with Sandpiper Convalescent Center to provide Garden Therapy; maintaining the Isle of Palms Blue Star Memorial and other beautification projects. The IOP Garden Club also contributes to Camp Wildwood; the Lowcountry Land Trust; Memorial Gardens in Columbia; Teaching KATE; and the Coastal Conservation League. see Plant Sale on page 8

Inside Island Eye

Budiroes page 8

Barbeque page 17

Speed limit page 23

2

Civic

March 20, 2009

Sullivan’s Committees of Council – March 2, 2009 Getting the word out, quietly The Commercial District was under attack once again during the Town’s meeting of the Committees of Council. Noise was the number one culprit, but public intoxication and littering were also mentioned. It was pointed out that the use of a street legal golf cart would enable officers to leave their vehicles in order to be in closer proximity to the action, allowing them to “prevent more obscenities” than if they simply cruised in their vehicles. The Council stated that a resident may donate a golf cart for that purpose. Furthermore, members of the business district pay to privately hire an officer to patrol the area at night. Council member Pat O’Neil suggested that the Town take over the responsibility as it is the Town’s duty. These steps, the Council agreed, should help with some of the issues. However, no one could ignore the big white elephant in the room which was wearing a huge collar that read ‘noise’. With Home Team BBQ on the way, Councilman Everett Presson spoke with a renewed sense of urgency, arguing that the night life in the Commercial District

is ruining the character of Sullivan’s Island. “I think the impact the new bar is going to be a bigger impact than anyone thinks,” Presson warned as he reminded the Island’s late-night restaurants that they are surrounded by a residential district. “We’ve got to remember who we’re working for,” Presson said, pointing out that it was not the restaurant owners he is worried about. Councilman Buddy Howle also argued the Commercial District was ruining the feel of Sullivan’s Island and Mayor Carl Smith went one step further, laying the blame on a single doorstep. “It all comes down to Off the Hook,” Smith said before agreeing with Presson that Home Team BBQ would add to the problem. Presson, who has previously said that he didn’t care if another person set foot on Sullivan’s Island, regretted giving Home Team BBQ the impression that it was okay to play music until 2am. And in fact, the Council admitted in a past meeting that there were no regulations that prevented music throughout the night. Music curfews have

been suggested by the Council for 11pm and 12am. Business owners have argued that cutting music off that early would effect their business and some might have to shut down as times are already tight. However, Presson said that it was “too bad” if a business failed as a result of having to comply with the peaceful character of Sullivan’s Island, adding that they could go somewhere else. In conclusion, he asked what benefit Sullivan’s Island residents get from 200 people leaving the bars at 2am. Those who would oppose regulations might point out that part of the benefit comes from the extra money the Town receives from off-islanders who spend money in their businesses until 2am. That benefit was recently multiplied when the Council voted to increase license fees for the restaurants by 50 percent, which was five times higher than the increase to which every other type of business on the island was subjected. In addition, some might blame the Council for its inefficiency. The Town had recently created a temporary “Noise Committee”, made up of Presson, Pat O’Neil, and Mayor Smith, to deal with

www.islandeyenews.com

the problems in the Commercial District and bring their findings to the rest of Council. After several meetings, O’Neil told Council that the Town needed to address parking according to the consultants suggestions, assess their Police plan for the area, and ask the Town attorney for recommendations about decibel ordinances, cabaret licenses, and other options. Additionally, O’Neil introduced a younger member of the community who would be working on a Facebook page to let the younger, non-resident visitors to the area know what sort of conduct is appropriate and expected. He also noted that proper Police patrolling could alleviate some of the issues. However, Council member Mike Perkis was disappointed that the Committee had spent so much time on the subject without any specific ideas that would have allowed the Council to take some action. “I’m very underwhelmed by what the Noise Committee has produced,” Perkis admitted. Everett Presson stated the Committee came up with the “bones” and the Council just needs to see Council on page 3

March 20, 2009 Council from page 2 put the meat on them. Perkis also wondered if the Committee could have come to some sort of consensus with business owners on the matter. Although the City of Folly Beach recently developed a noise ordinance in conjunction with members of the business district over the course of a couple of months, Presson found the idea laughable. “How do you expect Rusty Bennett, representing the Commercial District, to agree with me?” Presson contended. No doubt, the issue will continue to draw discussion and debate. The Council seems ready to pursue their own path on the matter and with some speed. “We’re going to try some things,” Presson assured the Town. “I want to try them quickly.”

Water pressure Sullivan’s Island residents could be paying more for water in the future if the Town Council decides to raise rates. They recently hired the Raftelis Financial Consulting Firm to evaluate the Town’s water rates and make recommendations for change. Frank Davis of Raftelis gave a presentation that suggested the Town increase rates by 10% in 2010 and subsequently increase rates

3

Civic by three percent and two percent every year for the following six to seven years. Rate increases for wastewater are different, with a suggested nine percent increase in 2010, a seven percent increase in each of the following seven years and a two percent increase in the three years that follow that. However, the increase is not as simple as one might think and has been formulated to impact the average resident in a minimal way. According to Davis, the average, year-round Sullivan’s Island resident uses about 6,000 gallons of water per month. The rate increases, which apply to everyone, are heaped more heavily on the residences that tend to use a lot more water such as rental properties during the summer months. The plan would divide customers into three categories instead of seven, which more accurately represents the types of customers on Sullivan’s Island. The typical resident would see a much smaller deviation from their normal bil, while rental properties and second homes would probably see a larger change in their bills. The plan is designed to recover revenues, not increase them. Improvement projects are partially responsible for depressed revenue streams as the Town has about $3.9 million worth of Water and Sewer projects on the table. However, water conservation was another problem. Conservation of water became an issue late last year when the main water supply line to Sullivan’s was being repaired and became unusable. While Davis pointed out that people did not have to be punished for conserving water, he suggested the Town institute a special “drought

Isle of Palms 886-6428 www.iop.net

period” rate that would increase rates by 50% for people who use more than 4,000 gallons during those periods, effectively encouraging conservation while establishing a way to collect more money. “It’s more equitable to your customer base and there’s more rationale for it,” Davis said of the plan. The Town now has the responsibility of deciding what to do with the recommendations.

Bringing a cemetery to life Although the cannons and gunshots ceased about 144 years ago, echos and veterans of the Civil War are still being remembered thanks toThe Sullivan's Island Historic Cemetery Association, who are working to preserve a War-era cemetery located at Station 22. Their plan is piecemeal and one step at a time. With the help of the National Park Service (NPS) and Garret Acedemy students, the group will be installing heavy posts which will run the perimeter of the cemetery and will work to keep people from parking on the property. Randy Prioleau, an employee with the NPS, is donating his time to work on the project. “I’m deeply touched by history,” Prioleau says. “If you don’t know your history you don’t know where you’re going for the future.” Prioleau has helped to identify the proper style for the posts which will be of a “tabby” character, made up of crushed oyster shells and other ingredients that are representative of the time period. The high school students, as part of a project, will help to actually manufacture the posts see Council on page 5

Civic Calendar

Tuesday, March 24 City Council Meeting, 7pm City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd. Wednesday, March 25 Recycle Municipal Court, 10am City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd.

Wednesday, April 1 Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee-11am City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd. Recreation Committee Meeting5pm Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave

Public Works Bldg., 1303 Palm Blvd. Public Safety Committee Meeting5pm City Hall, 1207 Palm Blvd. Sullivan's Island 883-3198 www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Monday, March 23 Special Council Mtg/Accreted Land Mgmt Selection Cte-5pm Town Hall, 1610 Middle Street Tuesday, March 24 Beach Erosion Advisory Committee Meeting-6pm Town Hall, 1610 Middle Street Wednesday, March 25 Recycle

Tree Committee Meeting-7pm Thursday, April 2 1610 Middle Street Public Works Committee Meeting4pm 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] Heather Boggs Holbrook Contributing Editor [email protected] Brittany Urbach Reporter [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Interns Jennifer Millar Bridget Hinkebein Bri Horahan Ashley Anderson • Contributors Carolina Lowcountry Red Cross Bobby Cummings David Farrow Mary Gatch Sarah Dargan Harper Norman Khoury Dimi Matouchev Jane McMackin National Park Service Susan Wallace 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: March 25 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”.

March 20, 2009

4

What’s the I.D.eal?

At a previous meeting of the City Council, it was mentioned that the City would need to start reclaiming the public rightof-ways in order to enforce the law and appease a State agency which is responsible for gifting money for beach nourishment projects. Already, high tide is back to the dunes despite the $10 million dollar project, the completion of which is still in its infancy. Parking has become a volatile issue during the summer, especially on Arctic and Ashley Avenues, where cars struggle to find places to park. To keep cars out of their yards, many homeowners install posts, hedges, and even buildings. They’ve done it for at least 30 years with little to no consequence. However, it’s illegal and the City may start enforcing it. It’s unfortunate that residents have been led to believe that it is inconsequential to take their yards to the street because of a lack of enforcement from the City and State. However, there is no time like the present to set things right. It will be a hard road to haul (pun intended), but the ditches should have been dug at the first signs of encroachment. The City should effectively and efficiently reclaim public property from private hands. State funding could be on the line. But more importantly, the logic that allows our government to choose what laws to enforce is the same logic that gives people the right to choose which ones to obey. Anarchy only looks good on t-shirts.

Why is this so tough? Whose rights are being trampled? Give us one legitimate reason why one should not have to show a picture ID when one votes. By “legitimate reason” I mean one not colored by emotion, one persuaded by common sense. Doesn’t one have to present a picture ID to buy beer or cigarettes? When you cash a check, don’t you have to present two forms of identification, one of them state issued? Okay fine. What is so terribly egregious about presenting a picture ID when voting? “Oh, it harkens back to Jim Crow!” It does not. To my knowledge, the bill currently before the S.C. state legislature requires everyone - white, black, brown and red - to fork out a picture identification that proves you are who you say you are. What bothers us is the assumption that poor people do not have the life skills to function on such a level. We think it is breathtakingly patronizing. We thought perhaps with all the hope and change bubbling up from the floorboards, we could put aside the thought that poor people were numb as a pounded thumb. Nope. Now, poor people are victims and there is a mighty roar for retribution, a way to attack those wrongdoers – not for the sake of righting wrongs, but to make people pay for the misfortunes, real and perceived. Are we the only one who thinks this is just nuts? Let us know.

Island Editorials

A long road to haul

Kiawah and Seabrook: a spit in the wind

When it comes to barrier islands, there’s a basic understanding between developers and landowners that the islands themselves are impermanent structures. Some, such as the established towns of Kiawah Island, Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, are more secure in their knowledge that, although their land is fleeting in the long range, it’s sure to be a fairly permanent structure for at least the next hundred or so years. Other strips of sand, such as Captain Sam’s Spit,

are far more fleeting; barely rising above the surface before sinking back into the ocean several decades later. It would be silly to think that the owners of Captain Sam’s Spit didn’t understand this. Since the land belongs to them and is zoned for development, there is really nothing stopping them from building out the island. Sure, the homeowners would have to pay out the rear for wind and hail and flood insurance, but it’s a risk they would have to be willing to take;

and if the developers can find enough people to take that risk, then they have no reason not to build on the Spit. The same, however, goes the other way. Who really would be willing to pay upwards of $40,000 a year just in insurance to live on a piece of land that was not even there less than 60 years ago? The decision is in the developers hand and hopefully, common sense will prevail.

Letters to the Editor:

learned well enough how to tame the arrogance, born of greed, which seemed to have more influence over the Town fathers than did the common sense of people who constituted the Town. Sadly, the fruit has fallen from the trees upon us, and not just on our Town, but on innocent people around the world. May recovery occur soon, and not cost too much. So few gathered up so much of the coin of the realm while destroying life many knew and loved. Thank you for honoring the efforts of my wife, Nancy, who loved life as it was, so genuinely. May the IOPNA continue its good work and the Mayor and Council think more circumspectly in the future, displaying reverence for what exists and what the people who live their lives on the island wish to preserve. Treasures and treasure lost are so hard to recover.

Community Action Group I didn’t sign that mailer either, but the Awendaw residents wanted to hear that collective voice expressed and it has served their struggle well. If I alarmed any one by not signing, I apologize. If I stirred anyone up to come voice their democratic right to speak, then good for you. We’ve all seen huge changes since my childhood of riding ponies on the beach and watching horned toads scamper through the dunes, but I never imagined that I would feel safer in New York City on a Saturday night than here. Whether you or I live near the bar district or far way, the problem of late night partying will not just go away. My personal concern is that, particularly with the non-resident owned bars, it will escalate to such a pace that something tragic will occur as a result of so many party-ers that wound up that late at night. I pray that I’m wrong, but every offensive incident written about in the first mailer actually happened to me, or to a neighbor, or perhaps even to you, in the last year late on a weekend night. With more bars opening or expanding, the odds do not look good. My personal hope is that we finally get to a “no music and no outside partying” ordinance after midnight, as that seems to be the cut off point that may keep things sane. Bar owners stiffly oppose this because they feel that it will not only hurt their midnight to 2am business, but that it will discourage the late night

Dear editor, Thank you for publishing recent articles regarding the activities of the Isle of Palms Neighborhood Association. In particular, thank you for noting the presentation of the first Annual Nancy Stogner Award to Diane Oltorik. She is performing a most useful service to the people of the Isle of Palms who are interested in preserving a way of life on the island. Nancy was rather occupied with her effort to preserve and enhance the slice of paradise, as she called the Isle of Palms, when she retired in 1997. Her time was brief, but she became fully involved with many aspects of the fabric of human relationships and the beautiful setting of the island and the surrounding area. She would be so pleased to see how enthusiastically others are doing likewise. Little did any of us realize, at the time, that the out-of-control development on the Isle of Palms, that was upsetting the single family neighborhood island community, was rampant countrywide and so deeply involved in the fundamentals of the whole free enterprise system, that it would be shaken to the core. Looking back, I remember how dismissive the attitude of leaders of the City were when many of us asked that they slow down and listen to the will of the people who signed petitions asking that their homes be permitted to remain pretty much as they were. None of us

Sincerely yours, P. Coker Stogner

Dear fellow islanders, My name is Henry Hagerty, and I wrote the “Are you Quiet Island?” mailer. I did not sign it because, quite frankly, I am just another knucklehead coming home to live on the island, and not an elected official who can actually do anything, without a lot of you, about the problems facing the island. I listened to many of you before writing it, and those were all of our words. When I helped form the Awendaw www.islandeyenews.com

see editorials on page 7

5

March 20, 2009

Bulkhead Progress at the IOP Marina

Going once, going twice…

By Bri Horahan

T

he construction of the new bulkhead at the IOP Marina is still under progress. It is scheduled to be finished by the end of the month if they “don’t run into any snags”, said Dockmaster Chase Fields. The new bulkhead is made of steel, replacing the old and out-dated wooden one. Fields said that the “new, durable material will last longer and increase the life of the marina”. Misener Construction Company is doing the work. They have done a great job, according to Fields, and have worked with the Marina, allowing them to keep the ramp open throughout the work. Council from page 3 which will be transported to Sullivan’s Island for installation. The Town Council agreed to pursue funding for the project, which was estimated to cost about $16,000, but will only cost about $7,000 with the donated work. The group has $2500 to go toward this aspect of the project. Although the Town has recently increased business license fees,

Council member Mike Perkis assured the group they would find the money somewhere. “I think you’re doing a good thing,” Mayor Carl Smith said. The group has worked to manicure the cemetery which has been left more or less alone for decades. They’ve also identified at least 14 gravesites with sonar and estimate there to be at least 45. There are plans for gravestones as well in the future.

2504 Palm Boulevard, one of the most expensive homes built on the Isle of Palms with an estimated value of $6,995,000, will go up for auction on March 21 at 11am with an undisclosed reserve value. Due to the current market conditions, the decision was made to offer this extraordinary oceanfront home at auction. Absentee participation is allowed. All of the auction protocol and details can be reviewed by registering for the auction package which can be downloaded on line at www.luxurylandandhomes.com/Oceanfront-Auction2504PalmBoulevard.htm. The last preview of this property will be at 10am, the day of the auction. All bidders must be pre-registered by visiting the above website or calling Eve Olasov at 345-8267. The property’s MLS # is 2905412. House details • 6,750 heated square feet • Lot Size  -  1.50 Acre - 100 feet Atlantic Ocean frontage • New construction by award winning builder, Thomas M. Evans Construction • 3+ car garage below home • Russound wired for audio system • Elevator - poolside outdoor kitchen • Granite and stone detailing • Exotic hardwood flooring with custom mahogany inlay • 20 minutes from historic downtown Charleston • over 2,000 square feet porches and Ipe decking • Heated Infinity pool with waterfall • Cat 5 Lutron Homeworks wiring, security system • Solid mahagony eight foot doors • Ipe decking with full walkway to the oceanfront • Seven bedrooms plus optional eigth or media room • Seven full baths plus two half baths

Send your letters to the editor, concerns, discussions and stories to:

[email protected]

www.islandeyenews.com

6

Daily

Anhinga

Round robin auction

By Sarah Dargan Harper

Y

March 20, 2009

ou can spot an parts are black. Adult Anhinga in the males develop a Lowcountry bright blue eye only in the ring during summer months. breeding season I photographed (like the male this adult male in my photo). on James Strangely Island at Dill enough, Plantation. Anhinga His nest of feathers young chicks are not was a few waterproof feet away. so the birds Anhingas must sun winter in themselves Florida and periodically. Central and They stand South America. motionless with They are aquatic wings extended birds which spear and wait until fish with their long they are thoroughly pointed beaks. They dry. Cormorants, are expert swimmers, due which are close relatives PHOTO BY to their webbed feet and of Anhingas, sun Sarah Dargan Harper streamlined bodies. When themselves in the swimming, only the head and same way. Cormorants have the long thin neck are exposed, shorter tails than Anhingas, as which is why the Anhinga has well as shorter, hooked beaks. been nicknamed the “snake bird”. Cormorants are considerably Females and juveniles under smaller and lack the white three years have a brown head markings which are so prominent and neck. In adult males, these on Anhingas.

By Bri Horahan

O

n Saturday, March 21, from 10am to 5pm, a round robin auction will be held at 300 Ocean Blvd. on the Isle of Palms. It is the largest home on the island, called the “Grand Dame of Millionaire’s Row”. Rusty Denham, a local real estate agent, will be presiding over the bidding process, which consists of closed bid submissions. It is a two day event, beginning with an open house for perusal and inspections on Friday, March 20. After the bids have been placed, they will be arranged in numerical order from the highest to the lowest. Denham will then call each bidder beginning with the highest, giving them the opportunity to either raise their bid or drop out. The process continues until only one bidder remains. The next day, the final bidder will sign a contract with Mel Miles, the property’s owner. Denham called the round robin process “fun, fair and a fast way to sell a property”. He

said that most people come into the auction feeling wary and unsure of the process, but that in the end, everyone ends up having a great time. Bidders do not have to be pre-qualified. It is open to everyone and everyone is encouraged to attend. As a whole, the process is a great way to meet people and bring a crowd to a property that might otherwise go unnoticed along with the dozens of other houses for sale throughout the islands. “Somebody’s going to get a great deal,” said Miles. The house was previously under contract for $7.4 million. Now, the offer is nearly half of the original asking price at $4.48 million. The 7,000 square foot house has seven bedrooms and eight and a half bathrooms, complete with an infinity pool, hot tub and custom wine room. So, come out Saturday and place a bid, because you never know. For more information, visit www.IOPmansion.com or call 578-9863.

Island Eye noise poll Although we received over 70 votes on our poll, we only recorded one vote per computer IP address, so that the results wouldn’t be skewed if someone voted more than once. The results were: Should Sullivan’s Island consider stopping amplified music at 11pm on weekdays and midnight on the weekends? Yes: 7 No: 20 Their reasons? No: The island is not for just residents to enjoy. The beach is a natural place that everyone should enjoy. Businesses and individuals want to come here for what it has to offer and one segment of this is the night life on the island. The businesses are not causing the problems which people complain about; it is individuals causing these problems and the masses and business owners should not www.islandeyenews.sc

be punished for this. No: Is there soon going to be anyplace that does not have laws against people trying to have a good time and unwind? It is the beach for Pete’s sake. The people that are complaining knew where they were purchasing and now they are trying to ruin it for everyone else. Shame on them. No: Call off the war on our commercial district! Yes: The late night music encourages drinking and these people stay until the bars closed. The noise is horrible in the surrounding neighborhoods. Yes: The Town of Sullivan’s Island should stop music and dancing altogether. These sorts of activities can lead to fornication. Yes: There is no reason for amplified noise to be allowed any later than 11 on weekdays and midnight on weekends on our, hopefully, sleepy little island. We’re not Chicago or NYC.

March 20, 2009

7

Daily

The “shear” enjoyment of good company

N

photo by Jane McMackin

eed a good haircut, manicure or waxing? You need go no further than 1400 Palm Boulevard, where you’ll find Salon and Company. This full-service salon has held on since 1994 through rent increases and winter doldrums, proudly retaining their staff through thick and thin. The six hairdressers there include partners Victoria Friedrichs and Scott Whitmer. The partners and staff share over 100 years of experience in the hairdressing craft. In 1994, Mrs. Friedrichs was working at the salon across the street and Mr. Whitmer was helping his wife run the Pier Ice Cream Shop when they decided to go into business together. They took on the challenge and have worked as business partners and friends ever since. High rent and the seasonal nature of the Isle of Palms population have been their biggest challenges. They estimate that tourists represent 15 – 20% of their business. Another 50% comes from Mount Pleasant or off

By Jane McMackin

(l to r) Elizabeth Carota, Paula Elliott, Susie Baughn, Victoria Friedrichs, Scott Whitmer, Leslie Dabrasky, Renae Sayers.

the island. Their clientele is loyal. Some have been coming to their shop since it opened. One of their clients that they remember fondly was Helen Clarkin. A longtime island resident, she had many stories to tell. Some of her stories were interpreted and retold by Dorothea Benton Frank in her novel Isle of Palms. Ms. Frank used the salon as a focal point of her book, calling it Anna’s

Cabana. The main character of the book, Anna Lutz Abbot, said of the salon, “My crazy little salon is a gold mine in human behavior studies.” Asked if this was true of Salon and Company, Mrs. Friedrichs replied “it certainly is!” Besides being very good at what they do, the partners are also proud of the many ways that they and their staff have made

contributions to our way of life. Renae Sayers’ husband, Ken, is currently in Afghanistan and Elizabeth Carota’s fiancee, Rich, has just returned home from two tours in Iraq. The staff of the salon participates with Friends of Santa, cutting hair for children with cancer. The partners make donations each year to the Breast Cancer Foundation, Winwood Farms and Operation Home. In 2003, the business was awarded the Big Apple Award for Community Excellence by WCSC TV. Asked about hairdos over the years, Mrs. Friedrichs said that they have gone round and round with styles. The two most interesting requests were to style someone’s hair like a cartoon character’s (they brought in the cartoon), and another request for a “tossed salad” do. You may not want something as whimsical as that, but bring your style request to Salon and Company, and you’re sure to have a good chat, get a great cut and leave smiling.

editorials from page 4

Choose from our Special Date Night selections

party-ers from coming out earlier. But a lot of bad stuff has already happened with loud music, lots of young non-residents, and lots of alcohol right up to 2am. I mention the non-residents only because the residents, and the resident-owned bars, seem to be pretty good neighbors for a reason. If you’re drunk that late at night and you live here, you’re a lot more likely to care about disturbing your neighbors or destroying their property than if you don’t live here, don’t care about who does live here, and you’re all wound up and looking for the after party. And if they’re leaving on motorcycles, good luck sleeping through that. My hat goes off to our elected officials. They are trying their best to address the common good even though few of us show up at public meetings. If you do not show up and speak up, then the most persistent voices will prevail. There have been very negative and very positive reactions to that mailer, but it seems to have gotten a lot of you talking and thinking and questioning things, and that was its only intent. Please take that agitation and talk to our representatives, in public meetings or in private, and tell them what you think, because that is the only way for them to gauge the wishes of the majority. You can also e-mail or write me, www.islandeyenews.com

but that’s only if you are willing to sign a petition for a referendum to force this to a vote, and, for that to happen, more than 20 percent of you would have to respond. Otherwise, speaking to me doesn’t matter and it does not help Town Council find a solution. God bless their patient souls. They have already heard over the last year what I, some other Quiet Islanders, and the bar owners think. They need to hear from a lot of the rest of y’all to determine the greater good. Enjoy your sticker, and think of it as symbolizing cooing doves, washing surf, swooshing blows of porpoises as they slide back into the sea, and the silent spirit of a magic place that once was safe and serene and may become that yet again. But only if you speak. May God bless our Sullivan’s Island.

8

March 20, 2009

B

Budiroes

udiroes has closed it doors on the Isle of Palms citing a "tough economy, rent issues, and an overzealous police department". Ronnie and his wife Kim ended the run on the Isle of Palms with a huge final show with over 300 regulars and friends in attendance. Look for a new version of Buddy Rows soon right off Sulivan's Island. The new bar will have the same great live shag and beach music and will feature a variety of local shrimp dishes.

(right) Images from the last New Year's party at Budiroes by Don Lewis. We look forward to Buddy Rows!

Plant Sale from front page

About the Isle of Palms Garden Club

Salt Marsh Marigolds

Organized in 1948, the Isle of Palms Garden Club is a Federated Garden Club whose purpose is to continue the development of flower design knowledge and good gardening skills through monthly programs, special workshops and flower show participation; to increase member awareness and involvement in conservation and environmental programs; to work with the community in beautifying public areas; and work with area youth and provide programs in garden therapy for our senior citizens. Everyone is invited to join the IOP Garden Club and you don’t have to live on Isle of Palms to join. Monthly meetings have speakers on topics such as “Shade Gardening with Deer Resistant Plants” and “Attracting Butterflies to Your Garden”. Members enjoy sharing their knowledge. Our last meeting until September 2009 will be Thursday, April 16. Contact Susan Wallace 442-6450 or [email protected].

Exchange Club Youth of the month

The Isle of Palms Exchange Club recognized Jordan Leigh, Taylor Emry, and Matthew Ramsey with the “Youth of the Month” award during the Club’s dinner meeting on February 26, 2009.  Each student was required to submit their resume and write an essay entitled “America’s Youth - Stepping Forward to Change the Beat of America”.  Youth of the Month recognition is also determined by the student’s academic success, involvement in their school, and volunteer service to their community. The students received a certificate and a $100 award. Congratulations to these Wando High School seniors who are outstanding members of their community! PHOTO BY Pamela Marsh

(left to right) Stacey Johnson (President Elect of the IOP Exchange Club), Jordan Leigh, Taylor Emry, Matthew Ramsey and Elizabeth Grantham (“Youth of the Month” committee chairperson)

African Passages opens at Ft Moultrie

J

Provided by the National Park Service

oin the National Park Service as we dedicate African Passages, a newly installed museum exhibit at the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center on Sunday afternoon, March 22. The event takes place at 3pm on the grounds of the park at 1214 Middle Street on Sullivan’s Island. The new exhibit examines the role of Sullivan’s Island as a quarantine station during the international slave trade, when Charleston was the main port of entry for captive Africans in North America. Historians estimate that slave ships brought 200,000 to 360,000 men, women and children into Charleston’s harbor. Between 1707 and 1799, when arriving ships carried infectious diseases, their free or enslaved passengers were quarantined either aboard ship or in island “pest houses”. This painful history makes Sullivan’s Island a gateway through which many African Americans can trace their entry into America. The exhibit includes the haunting Middle Passage charcoal works of Thomas Feelings and the exuberant Gullah art of Jonathan Green. West African objects, leg shackles and an 1803 slave identification badge are among

www.islandeyenews.com

the artifacts on display, on loan from the collection of the Avery Research Center for African American Culture at the College of Charleston. The story of Priscilla and her 7th generation granddaughter’s return to Sierra Leone provides a modern day link from Charleston across the Atlantic and three centuries. “The scholarship of historians Edward Ball and Joseph Opala uncovered this amazing connection from Sierra Leone to Sullivan’s Island. The story of Priscilla puts a face on those oppressed by slavery,” said Krista KovachHindsley, NPS exhibit planner. With text written by journalist Herb Frazier, the exhibits were fabricated and installed by Studio Displays of Charlotte, NC. Seed money for the project was donated in 2004 by the Committee of Descendants, a foundation established by Ed Ball and his extended family. The Remembrance Committee of Charleston has also been instrumental in seeing the project completed. The 3pm program will include music, drumming and a libation. In case of inclement weather, the program will be moved into the auditorium. For more information, call the park at 883-3123.

March 20, 2009

9

Financial

Investing lessons from the vineyards

A

By Dimi Matouchev

s an investor, you can get plenty of advice from financial experts on the evening news or cable financial shows. But you may actually be able to learn some deeper truths about investing by observing other professionals – such as winemakers. At first glance, you might not see what these “guardians of the grape” can teach you about building an investment portfolio. After all, they’re shaping Sangiovese while you’re seeking stocks, they’re bottling Burgundy while you’re buying bonds, and they’re mastering Malbec while you’re monitoring mutual funds. What’s the connection? Start by considering the life cycle of wine and the concept of “vintage”. For example, a particular wine is labeled a 2005 vintage if it is made from grapes that were predominantly grown and harvested in 2005. Yet given the requirements of wine production, this 2005 vintage may not actually hit the markets until 2008 – and some aficionados may think the wine won’t taste its best until 2018. If you translated this type of scenario to the financial world, you could say that the 2008 investment “vintage” was not promising, given that the value of almost all investments – even the quality ones – fell last year. But if you were to hold these quality investments for the long term – as you should, because investing is a long-term activity – you might find that the 2008 vintage investments may eventually become productive vehicles that can help you achieve your financial goals. So, what lessons can you learn from winemakers? Here are a few suggestions: Be patient. Winemakers put a lot of time, effort and money into planting today’s grapes – for which they will not see one penny of profit for many years. Yet they have the discipline to wait patiently until the products of their labors come to fruition. Are all their wine’s successful? No – and all your investments may not be, either. But given enough time, quality investments can usually help you work toward your financial goals. Have faith in your strategy. Wine drinkers’ tastes vary from

year to year. Yet winemakers don’t rip out their vineyards and replant them with today’s “hot” varietal. Instead, they cultivate the grapes they’ve planted, make the best wine they can and maintain their belief that their products will find a market. As an investor, you can’t allow yourself to be swayed by today’s hot tips and trends. Instead, build a portfolio of quality investments that can stand the test of time. Adapt your goals to your situation. One of the most famous winemaking regions of the world, Napa Valley, contains a number of microclimates that vary temperature, rainfall and soil. Napa Valley winemakers know which grapes will do best in which microclimate, and they concentrate their efforts accordingly. And you, as an individual investor, should base your investment decisions on your own “microclimate” – your risk tolerance, family situation, time horizon and other factors. In other words, you should choose those investments that are best suited for you and that have the best chance to help you meet your goals. Investing, like winemaking, is filled with challenges. But by observing how winemakers work, you may learn some things that can eventually help you raise a glass to your own success. This article was written by Edward Jones, located at 1505 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC 29451. For more information, please call the Edward Jones offices at (843) 886-9229 or visit their website at www.edwardjones.com.

www.islandeyenews.com

10

Financial

March 20, 2009

Will $825 billion improve your bottom line?

W

ith the subprime crisis mushrooming into a global recession, all eyes are on Washington, DC, in anticipation of the federal government’s unprecedented $825 billion fiscal recovery plan designed to keep the nation from falling into another Great Depression. How will the $825 billion jumpstart for the economy impact you? The largest single measure of the recovery plan is $145 billion in tax cuts for working individuals. That amounts to a tax cut of $500 per person ($1,000 for couples) that phases out for people making over $75,000 a year ($150,000 for couples). You’ll receive the money either by claiming it on your tax return, or through a reduction in the taxes that are taken out of your weekly paycheck. Notably, for the unemployed, the recovery plan provides an additional $43 billion for increased unemployment benefits, $39 billion for expanded healthcare benefits, and $20 billion to increase food stamp benefits. In the area of education, the plan provides $41 billion for school improvements; increases to the annual unsubsidized Stafford Loan limits; and offers $14 billion for improvements to buildings, computer upgrades, and teacher training. There is an additional $15 billion to increase the maximum Pell Grant by $500 for the 2009-2010 academic year and $14 billion for tax credits of up to $2,500 a year for college

by Bobby Cummings, CFP, CFBS, CLTC

students with an annual income below $80,000. Also, by providing an additional $79 billion directly to the states to offset education costs, the package indirectly ensures that vital local community services won’t have to be cut or taxes won’t have to be raised. While the economic impact of the stimulus plan remains to be seen, Washington already has enacted the Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 (WRERA) that contains provisions to alleviate some of the stress caused by the downturn in financial markets. Signed into law on December 23, 2008, by President Bush, WRERA suspends Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) for the 2009 calendar year. This applies to all IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans, including qualified pension plans, qualified stock bonus plans, qualified profit-sharing plans, 401(k) plans, 457(b) plans, and 403(b) plans. The relief does not apply to distributions from defined benefit plans. Note, too, that the legislation suspends RMDs for IRA owners and plan participants, as well as beneficiaries and trust beneficiaries. How does the suspension work? If you reached age 70½ prior to 2009, you would have been required to take your 2009 RMD no later than December 31, 2009. Now, that RMD will not have to be made in 2009. If you will reach age 70½ during 2009, you would have been required to take your first

RMD on or before April 1, 2010. Because this legislation suspends required distributions for 2009, there is no requirement that a distribution be made by April 1, 2010. However, in both cases, you would still be responsible for taking your RMD for the 2010 calendar year on or by December 31, 2010. Also, if you turned 70½ in 2008 and chose to wait until April 1, 2009, to get your first required minimum distribution, you still have to take that one in 2009. Although intended to ensure that retirees do not have to make withdrawals from their retirement accounts at a time when those accounts have suffered significant losses, your retirement plan account or IRA need not have losses in order to qualify for the 2009 RMD suspension. In fact, the suspension applies equally to IRAs invested in FDIC-insured bank CDs, as well as to IRAs invested in stocks or mutual funds that are depressed in value. Planning opportunities abound with this suspension. For example, if you invest in rental properties, you know that your active participation in a rental real estate activity generally means you may deduct up to $25,000 in rental losses. However, the rental loss deduction phases out if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) exceeds $100,000. If, however, you have relatively large RMDs, foregoing your scheduled distribution in 2009 may allow you to remain under the $100,000 limit and deduct some or all of your rental real estate losses. Similarly, if you are collecting Social Security benefits and choose not to take your RMDs in 2009, you may be able to reduce or eliminate income tax on your 2009 Social Security benefits. Note that when RMDs resume in 2010, there will be no change to the previous distribution schedule. That is, the required beginning date for distributions will be April 1 of the year after you reach age 70½, or, for some employer plans, April 1 of the

www.islandeyenews.com

year after retirement. Finally, The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 created a tax rebate last year for many people whose 2007 income qualified for it. However, that rebate can be based on income from either 2007 or 2008. This has implications if you have stock compensation. For example, if exercising options or stock vesting in 2007 caused a spike in your income that pushed you out of range for all or part of the rebate, you may still be able to claim it on your tax return for 2008 (filed in 2009) if your 2008 income fell within the rebate limits. Similarly, if you did not qualify for the rebate for 2007, but lost your job in 2008 causing your 2008 income to fall into the rebate range, you may be eligible. As always, I am available to answer your questions and determine how we can best take advantage of opportunities presented by these economic stimulus acts and recovery plans. For general informational purpose. Please seek the advice of your financial or tax advisor. The information provided herein is not written or intended as tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for purposes of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Entities or persons distributing this information are not authorized to give tax or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to seek specific advice from their personal tax or legal counsel. Bobby Cummings is the owner of Lighthouse Financial of Charleston. He is a Certified Financial PlannerTM 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 (6), daughter Keenan (3), and recently born son, Banks. see Financial on page 15

March 20, 2009

11

Daily

Recognizing Red Cross Month

Dr. Seuss Day at the Poe PHOTO BY Linda Rumph

Provided by the Carolina Lowcountry Red Cross

M

arch has officially been declared Red Cross Month by order of a Presidential Proclamation signed by President Barack Obama, marking the 66th time the month of March has been celebrated in honor of the organization. March was first declared Red Cross Month in 1943 by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in thanks for the Red Cross’ efforts in raising funds for World War II services. On March 5, newly elected Mayor Cronin of the Isle of Palms officially signed a proclamation declaring March as Red Cross Month on the island. For more than 100 years, Lowcountry residents have relied on the Red Cross to provide disaster relief, water safety and

Poe Library held their celebration of Dr. Seuss in conjunction with 'Read Across America 2009' on March 3.  Rick Pelletier, dressed as the ‘Cat in the Hat’ and read a variety of Seuss selections to children from Miss Aimee’s Pre-school and Sullivan’s Island Elementary School.

www.islandeyenews.com

first aid/CPR/AED training. Over the past year, 12,616 people have enrolled in American Red Cross of Health and Safety Courses in the Lowcountry. The Carolina Lowcountry Chapter has assisted in 2,192 military cases and has assisted 1,071 victims of home fires and other local disasters. Our local Red Cross Chapter is celebrating the month by offering special pricing on CPR, First Aid and Babysitter’s Training for workplaces. Prices are available for businesses and organizations scheduling classes for groups of eight or more participants, as well as for participants who register individually for classes held at the Red Cross. Visit www. lowcountryredcross.org or call 764-2323 x 356 for details.

12

March 20, 2009

Friday, March 20

Saturday March 21

First day of Spring!

Red Cross Blood Drive See Friday, March 20.

Red Cross Blood Drive From 7am – 1:30pm at the Red Cross Blood Center. 920 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite A-10, Harrell Square Shopping Center, Mt. Pleasant. For more info, call 8522910 OR 1-800-GIVE LIFE. 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.

Mount Pleasant Mom to Mom sale The bi-annual Mt Pleasant Mom to Mom sale will go on as planned from 7-11 am at the National Guard Armory, 245 Mathis Ferry Rd. in Mt Pleasant. Tickets: $1. For more information about the sale, please visit www. momsclub.org.

Island Eye Calendar

Tuesday, March 31

March 20 - April 4

Wednesday, April 1

sweetgrass basket demos Listen to spirituals and gospels by The Brotherhood Singers, learn quilting from Dorothy Montgomery and watch sweetgrass basket demonstrations by Elijah Ford. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site:1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. Call 881-5516 or visit www.nps.gov/chpi.

Gullah Heritage presents: Spirituals, quilting and

March 20, 2009

CSO Family Concert: Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry Celebrate the musical talents of Lowcountry youth as the Youth Orchestra of the Lowcountry takes the stage with the CSO. Tickets are $15 adults, $5 students and can be purchased through Ticketmaster at 554-6060, at all Ticketmaster Outlets and at www.charlestonsymphony.com.

Sunday, March 22 Pet Helpers 8th annual Oyster Roast & Silent Auction Join us for a day of fun. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 day of. Kids age 6 – 12 are $10 and kids under 6 get in free. Tickets are available by calling 795-1110. Visit www.pethelpers.org for more info. Noon to 5pm. Bowens Island Restaurant is located at 1870 Bowens Island Rd., Folly Beach.

Tuesday, March 24 3rd Annual Charleston Fashion Week Tuesday, March 24 - Sunday, March 28.  www.charlestonfashionweek.com. Kid’s day at Seel’s 99 cent kid’s meals and children’s movies on the big screen. For more information, please call 883-5030.

Wednesday, March 25 Red Cross Blood Drive From 12 noon – 6:30pm at the Red Cross Blood Center. 920 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite A-10, Harrell Square Shopping Center, Mt. Pleasant. For more info, call 8522910 OR 1-800-GIVE LIFE. East Cooper Democrats Socializing starts at 6:30 pm, followed by the 7pm meeting. This month’s topic is “Environmental Concerns”. Contact Carole at 216-3797 or [email protected].  Location: Olive Branch AME  Church Annex (on rte 17 and old Mathis Ferry Rd intersection). Café Medley “over the hump” wine tasting  From 6pm to 9pm. For more information, call Café Medley at 7934055. Located at 2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island. 8th Annual Plantasia 2009 This ever-popular plant sale spectacular is held on the front lawn of the Gaillard Auditorium in downtown Charleston. Call 579-9922 or visit our website at www.charlestonhorticulturalsociety.org.

Thursday, March 26 Sail aboard the Spirit of South Carolina Tall Ship This Adult Education sail departs from the Charleston Maritime Center. 5:30-8:30pm. $75 per person. To enroll in a program please contact the South Carolina Maritime Foundation at 722-1030 ext 11 or 19, or email marine@scmaritime. org.  

Kid’s day at Seel’s See Tuesday, March 24.

Boys & Girls Club Annual Benefit and Auction From 6 to 10pm at 28 Bridgeside in the old Zinc restaurant building. Tickets are $125 and all proceeds go to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. call Neesha Patel at (843) 937-6523 or visit www.bgclubta. org.

War and Wardrobe at Fort Moultrie The public is invited to a free presentation of War and Wardrobe at the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center (1214 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island) at 2pm. For more info, call the Fort Moultrie Visitors Center at 883-3123 x 22.

Red Cross Blood Drive See Wednesday, March 25.

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.

Friday, March 27 Twisted Tango Twisted Tango will prove why its been called one of Charleston Ballet Theatre’s new masterworks! Tickets on sale now: 734-7334 or Charlestonballet.org. $30 Adults $15 Student w/ i.d. Rally, Roast and Ride Oyster Roast From 7-10pm at Gold Bug Island. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door and can be purchased by visiting the rēhava store, or at www.rehava.com/tickets or by calling 747-4762. Red Cross Blood Drive From 7am – 1:30pm at the Red Cross Blood Center. 920 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite A-10, Harrell Square Shopping Center, Mt. Pleasant. For more info, call 8522910 OR 1-800-GIVE LIFE. The Garden Club of Charleston’s 74th Annual Walking Tour of Private Houses & Gardens Friday, March 27 and Saturday March 28 from 2 - 5pm.  www.thegardenclubofcharleston.com.

Saturday, March 28

Café Medley “over the hump” wine tasting  See Wednesday, March 25.

Friday, April 3 CSO Backstage Pass: Yuriy Bekker  The show starts at 7pm at Memminger Auditorium, 56 Beaufain

Isle of Palms Garden Club Plant/Garage Sale From 8am-11am, the Garden Club will be selling a wide variety of household and decorative items,. The sale will be held this year at 2870 I’on Ave., Sullivan’s Island. For more info, contact Susan Wallace at 442-6450 or swallace@ carolinaone.com. Gullah Heritage presents: Spirituals and sweetgrass basket demos Listen to spirituals by Ann Caldwell & the Magnolia Singers and watch sweetgrass basket demonstrations by William Rouse. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site:1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. Call 881-5516 or visit www.nps.gov/chpi. CSO presents Merrill Lynch Masterworks: Charles Messersmith Show starts at 8pm at the Gaillard Auditorium, 77 Calhoun St, Downtown. Tickets are $20 - $60; $5 students (with ID) and can be purchased through Ticketmaster at 554-6060, at all Ticketmaster Outlets and at www.charlestonsymphony.com.

Friday Fish Fry Fresh flounder, hushpuppies and coleslaw only

brunch

Friday-Sunday 8am - 2pm

883-5030

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

$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

IE320

www.islandeyenews.com

www.islandeyenews.com

13 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!

14

March 20, 2009

Going Green – The Top 10 By Mary Gatch

M

y friend and neighbor asked a good question the other day: "What are the top 10 things we can all do to improve our carbon footprint?" Our carbon footprint is a measure of the amount of greenhouse gas emissions caused directly or indirectly by our lifestyles. There are many websites that allow you to measure your current carbon footprint. You’ll find a good calculator at www.nature.org/initiatives/ climatechange/calculator. My friend suggested that the Top 10 list consist of actions that are relatively easy and economical. Fortunately, I do think that most of the top 10 things we can do are very economical, but they may not all be easy. In determining the Top 10, it’s important to consider the primary sources of greenhouse gas emissions. The chart below was developed by Robert A. Rohde based on information from the Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research. This chart shows the sources of man-made greenhouse gas emissions by contributing sector for the year 2000. The overall chart is further broken down into charts for each of the three primary greenhouse gases using the same colors to represent the eight contributing sectors. Chart

growing rapidly. According to a 2006 report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), meat production generates more greenhouse gas emissions (14-22 percent of global emissions) than either transportation or industry. Most of the emissions stem from beef production with a pound of hamburger resulting in about 32 pounds of CO2 emissions. To tie this back in with the pie chart, here are the primary ways that meat production contributes to greenhouse gases: ‘Land Use and Biomass Burning’ – the primary reason for the destruction of rainforests and other forest land is to clear land for cattle. It requires 20 times as much land to grow food for a meat-eater versus a strict vegetarian. As 10’s of millions of acres are burned or cleared each year, a massive amount of stored carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. Further, we lose the ongoing ability of these forests to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. ‘Agricultural Byproducts’ – in large part, this is a nice way of saying cow burps, flatulence, and poop. As cows digest grass and grains, they produce methane gas as a byproduct. Pound for pound, methane gas is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide at creating a greenhouse affect. The earth’s estimated 1.5 billion cows are believed to be the primary source for the steady and alarming rise in methane in our atmosphere. Another byproduct of cow manure is nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas with 296 times the global warming potential of CO2. ‘Transportation Fuels’ – raising cattle requires a lot of fuel. From the tractors and trucks to grow and transport the grains to feed the cattle to the trucks transporting the steer and packaged meats, there are many moving parts. The fuel used to power the vehicles and produce the styrofoam and plastic packaging is another large contributor to greenhouse gases. According to a Department of Commerce study, one third of all raw materials in the United States are used to produce meat, dairy products, and eggs; the production and transport of these raw materials requires massive amounts of fuel. ‘Power Stations’ – about see Going Green on page 15 half of the world’s fresh water

Below, in order of importance, are 10 things you can do to lower your greenhouse gas emissions. Top 10: ☼☼ Eat less meat ☼☼ Consume less fuel ☼☼ Support or switch to renewable energy sources ☼☼ Lower heating/cooling cost ☼☼ Buy local ☼☼ Use less water ☼☼ Improve lighting and appliance efficiency ☼☼ Reduce waste (e.g., packaging and disposable bags, bottles, and cups) ☼☼ Recycle ☼☼ Compost Some of you may be surprised by the #1 item on the list. The order of items 2 through 10 is somewhat arbitrary and debatable, but there’s only one action that stands out for top billing. For the remainder of this column, I’ll explain why eating less meat has such a dramatic effect on greenhouse gas emissions. In future columns, we’ll dive into items 2-10 in more detail. In 1987, as our global population surpassed 5 billion people, we also reached another milestone. We crossed over the point at which the earth is able to regenerate the amount of global resources consumed within a year. We entered a new era with the ecological equivalent of deficit spending. As our population grows every year and as more people around the world strive to live the ‘American Lifestyle’, our ecological deficit is www.islandeyenews.com

March 20, 2009 Financial from page 10

15 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).

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 Sources: http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2009/news/0901/gallery. stimulus/index.html, http://www.irahelp.com/IRAUpdates/jan09/, http://www.gosselinlaw.com/law101/estate_planning/New_ Opportunities_Under_the_Worker_Retiree_and_Employer_Recovery_ Act_of_2008.html, http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article. cfm?articleid=2147http://www.economist.com/finance/displaystory. cfm?story_id=12852043Economics focus consumption is used for livestock production. When water is siphoned upstream of hydroelectric plants, it often results in a shift of power generation to more carbon-intensive methods such as coal-fired power plants. In many places, the inadequate supply of fresh water requires energy-intensive desalination of sea water. And, a significant amount of electricity can be saved by reducing irrigation water and the associated energy required to treat and distribute the water. If you’d like to learn more and to gather more incentive to cut meat consumption, I highly recommend John Robbins’ landmark book – Diet for a New America. It will change your perspective. The first item in the Top 10 is perhaps the easiest and most effective in so many ways. By reducing our meat consumption (especially beef), we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. And, in addition to improving the health of the planet, you can improve the health of your family. Mary Gatch is an owner of DwellSmart, a one-stop shop for healthy and environmentally-friendly products. Mary lives on Sullivan’s Island with her husband James, daughter Julian, and son Adam. You can contact her by e-mail at [email protected] or by visiting the store at 615 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Mount Pleasant (between Eco Fitness and Twin Rivers Bowling). Going Green from page 14

Botany walks with the Sullivan's islanders

P

Provided by Norman Khoury

lease join us for an educational and fun walk through the accreted area of Sullivan’s Island. Dr. Richard Porcher, renown botanist, professor and author, will lead us on a tour of discovery through a portion of the beautiful front beach green space of our island. Sullivan’s Island is blessed with 90 acres of protected front beach land – protected from development by the Lowcountry Land Trust. This land has built up (accreted) over the years. Dr. Porcher will show us the great diversity of the forested areas. He will identify beneficial native and harmful invasive species. Other topics will include: how the grasses, shrubs and trees are able to grow within a harsh coastal environment; how a maritime forest is formed; how this protected land can help protect the United States from hurricane damage and how we can be responsible stewards of this fragile and ever changing barrier island. If you have never looked closely at these natural spaces, this is your chance to see them through

the eyes of a master botanist and recipient of the 2007 S.C. Environmental Awareness Award. Sponsored by The Sullivan’s Islanders, there is no cost for this trip. Each walk will be limited to 30 folks to assure no harm comes to the areas we are trying to protect. The date is Saturday, April 4, and the two available walks will be held at 10am and 2pm. Each walk will last approximately 90 minutes. We will meet at the Sand Dunes Club, 1735 Atlantic Ave. Be sure to wear long pants, socks and walking shoes/boots. Older children are welcome (please limit 2 per family). Call Susan or Larry Middaugh at 883-3034 for reservations or email larry. [email protected].

Drawing of Dr. Porcher provided by Norman Khoury.

About Dr. Richard Porcher An authority on the flora of the state of South Carolina, Dr. Porcher is the author of Wildflowers of the Carolina Lowcountry and Lower Peedee, A Guide to the Wildflowers of South Carolina, and coauthor of Lowcountry: The Natural Landscape. His most recent book is The Story of Sea Island Cotton. His conservation work includes the restoration of Carolina Bay in Clarendon County. He serves on the SC Heritage Trust Advisory Board and the Scientific Advisory Board of The Nature Conservancy. He is active in the SC Native Plant Society and is a sought after speaker and field guide. His current projects include a book on the rice culture in SC, a topic in which he is known as an expert, and he is pursuing a Master’s Degree in history at the College of Charleston. He is a member of both The Huguenot Society of SC and the St. John’s Hunt Club. Dr. Porcher was the recipient of the 2007 SC Environmental Awareness Award.

www.islandeyenews.com

16

March 20, 2009

Island I

B

everage napkins have it emblazoned upon them. Board members have it ready on the tongue and it’s fully recognizable on the faces of young people all across Charleston, Berkley and Dorchester counties. It’s the mission statement of The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Trident Area. It proudly proclaims its mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. And in light of the greater community’s recent rallying around the Club after reports of its dwindling funding, along with strong mayoral support for its survival, there is too much at stake to let an historic organization such as this just fade away. On March 26 you are invited to The Boys & Girls Clubs Annual Benefit and Auction from 6 to 10pm at 28 Bridgeside (where the old Zinc wine bar used to be). A benefit that will truly benefit so many local children of all ages, tickets are $125 and well worth the price of admission for the cuisine and music alone. Granville

By Heather Holbrook Catering promises excellent cuisine, trays of Firefly sweet tea will make the rounds and The Dave Landeo Band will lure you to shake it up on the dance floor. A refreshing departure from the standard tuxedo and fancy dress ball, this promises to live up to its name of backyard Lowcountry casual crossed with an undertone of relaxed luxury. I’m going and most everyone I know is going, too; instead of hitting six or seven charity events a year, neighbors have told me recently that they plan to pare down their social obligations in 2009, but not this one. It promises to be way more fun than the last benefit you attended, and the best part is that the more fun you have, the better the kids at the Boys & Girls Club of the Trident Area will do. Surprisingly not federally funded, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America rely solely upon private donations to run their lineup of tested and proven nationally

recognized programs that address today’s most pressing youth issues. But it’s not the programs alone that positively influence kids ranging from ages 4-18 at all six local units; it is the cadres of dedicated staff and volunteers who shepherd boys and girls though core program areas such as Character and Leadership Development, Education and Career Development, Health and Life Skills, The Arts and Sports and Fitness. Oh, I know you don’t need me to tell you how important that last one is. One of the most hoppin’ places at downtown’s Robert Gould Shaw Unit on Mary Street is that indoor basketball court. And they have the trophy wall to prove it. Recently at the Shaw Unit, I met a little girl with neat braids and butterfly barrettes who gently scuffed her patent leather shoe and nodded shyly when introduced to me. She’s all of four years old and has been coming to the Club for a month now. Upstairs in the youth lounge, six foot tall teenage boys, all of whom were exceedingly polite, stood up and looked me in the eye when they shook my hand. I was impressed. I got the distinct impression that the Clubs promote these kids’ development by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness and maybe most importantly, belonging. In many cases, the Clubs are the only safe places some kids have to learn and

B

grow. In every community there is a population of boys and girls left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult supervision. The Club is a place where young people know that someone cares about them, a place to get homework done and a supper served every school night. Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 when several women, believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, organized the first Club. A cause was born. Fast forward to 1956 when Boys Clubs of America celebrated its 50th anniversary and President Eisenhower gave the national organization a Congressional Charter – a rare honor bestowed on only a few non-profit organizations in our country’s history. In response to a growing need, the Boys Clubs also began to serve girls and in 1990, it officially changed its name to Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Today there are over 4000 Clubs in the US serving over 4,000,000 members. For more about your local Boys & Girls Club of the Trident Area, please visit www.bgclubta.org. Tickets to the Annual Benefit are going fast; to get yours please click on Benefit on the website or call Neesha Patel at 937-6523 to place your order over the phone. You may also mail a check to Boys & Girls Club of the Trident Area, Attention Neesha Patel, PO Box 20879, Charleston, SC 29413. See you March 26!

Sea turtle stimulus plan

arb Gobien at the Sand Dollar Gift Gallery in Mount Pleasant is concerned about the lack of funding for the SC Aquarium Sea Turtle Hospital. Recently, she discovered that the aquarium is not eligible for any stimulus money and due to a decline in tickets sales because of the poor economy, their regular funding is also down. “Most of the turtles at the aquarium are there because of injuries caused by humans,” said Gobien, “usually from boat strikes, fishing lines and shrimp nets.” So she decided to do something to help. Thanks to a donation from Smish Studios in Florida, the Sand Dollar Gift Gallery is auctioning off four fusion glass sea turtles which normally retail for between $75 and $160. Tickets are $5 a piece and all of the money raised will be given to the SC Aquarium Sea Turtle Hospital. The drawing will be held on May 1. For more information, please call the Sand Dollar Gift Gallery at 881-1775. Sand Dollar Gift Gallery is located at 1309 Theater Drive in Mount Pleasant Town Centre.

www.islandeyenews.com

March 20, 2009

17

Barbeque arrives on Sullivan’s

Pet Helpers Eighth Annual All-You-Can-Eat Oyster Roast, Lowcountry Boil and Silent Auction On March 22, Rosebank Farms Café, Fatboy’s Lowcountry Cooking and Bowens Island Restaurant will host an all-you-can-eat oyster roast and lowcountry boil to benefit Pet Helpers from Noon to 5 pm. If you love food and music, this is the event you don’t want to miss! When: Sunday, March 22, 2009 from Noon – 5:00 p.m. Where: Bowens Island Restaurant, 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Folly Beach, SC 29439 Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of the event. Children ages 6 to 12 pay just $10; children under 6 get in free. Tickets are available at the shelter at 1447 Folly Road or by phone, 843-795-1110.

provided

F

iery Ron’s Home Team BBQ is proud to announce the opening of its second location in early Spring at 2209 Middle Street in the former Bert’s location on Sullivan’s Island. While Home Team BBQ’s menu accommodates every appetite with traditional authentic BBQ along with signature and versatile dishes, the new restaurant will feature a larger menu of tempting choices of ribs, chicken, pulled pork, BBQ quesadillas and tacos, appetizers and all the regular fixins that Home Team patrons have come to know and love. Keeping with the rustic, Southern charm of the Home Team BBQ brand, the new location will have the same down home atmosphere as West Ashley, yet offer table service inside and on the patio instead of walk up service. “When the Bert’s space became available, we knew it was a perfect place to expand our concept,” said Home Team executive chef and owner Aaron Siegel. “We’re renovating a building with great history and our goal is to carry on

the spirit of Bert’s with emphasis on the community while providing a fun and lively place which locals can call their own.” Founded in 2006 by Siegel and co-owner, Randy Abraham, Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ has won many awards including the Best BBQ, Best Ribs, Best Jazz and Blues Club, Coldest Beer and Best Bar Staff in Charleston. In addition to award-winning menu selections, Home Team offers large party takeout orders, full service catering and delivery. With nightly entertainment including live music and plenty of TVs for sports viewing, the bar also provides a fun nightlife scene. Home Team is the spot for a work lunch, casual family dinner or a great night out on the town with friends. Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ is open daily from 11am-2:00am and Sundays from 11:30am-2am with full menu served until 9pm. com. For more information about Home Team BBQ, visit www. hometeambbq.com.

Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ 2209 Middle Street (843) 225-RIBS (843) 225-BBQU www.hometeambbq.com Rustic, laid back feel with tin paneling, gas lanterns, nostalgic memorabilia, banquettes, bar tops, booths and picnic tables. Menu favorites include: pulled pork sandwich, BBQ wrap, BBQ taco with innovative house made salsas, fresh salads, rib platters, smoked turkey wrap, macaroni and cheese, creamy grits, Brunswick Stew and collards. Seating availability: Indoor - 65, Outdoor - 25; Standing – 125.

www.islandeyenews.com

March 20, 2009

No cause for alarm

Firefighters from the Mount Pleasant Fire Department training at the Sullivan’s Island training facility this past Wednesday, March 11.

19

War and Wardrobe

T

Saving the best for last When The Island Eye News posted the winners for the Isle of Palms Doggie Day, we accidently left out one of the cutest prize winners! Bonner Jordan’s dog Boone, a mixed breed with a touch of beagle, won first place for the Best Rescue. Duane Wayman and his dog Tess, another mixed breed, won second place and Jennifer Prestridge’s golden retriever came in third. Congratulations!

he public is invited to a free presentation of "War and Wardrobe" at the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center at 2pm on Saturday, March 28. War and Wardrobe is a unique program incorporating photographs and illustrations of women and the clothing they wore during the Civil War, as well as excerpts from diaries and letters written by Southern women. Visitors will learn about the lives of women during the volatile period of secession, the monumental firing on Fort Sumter, the Siege of Charleston and other events that affected those who lived in the city between 1860 and1865. Developed and presented by Ms. Mary G. Hatcher and Ms. Jean R. Hutchinson, War and Wardrobe

has been presented to numerous groups and organizations including the 2003 national convention of the Costume Society of America. Ms. Hatcher, Ms. Hutchinson and several models will be wearing reproduction Civil War dresses and they will provide information on their clothing and fashions of the era. This Women’s History Month program is free of charge and will be held in the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center Auditorium. The Visitor Center is located at 1214 Middle Street on Sullivan’s Island. Fort Moultrie is a unit of Fort Sumter National Monument, administered by the National Park Service. For more information call Historian Rick Hatcher at 883-3123 ext 22.

Historic Old Village

Home, Garden and Art Tour

Mount Pleasant, Sunday, April 19 from 1 - 5pm

Boone, winner for the Best Rescue, truly is a Lucky Dog!

Featured artists include Sally Cade, Nancy Hoerter, Hilarie Lambert, Ben Nita McAdam, Beth McLean, Ann Lee Merrill, Laurie Meyer, Elizabeth Middour, Ann Patterson, Leslie PrattThomas, Sheryl Stalnaker, Carole Tinkey, Janie Trouche, Shannon Brown Wood. Tickets are $45 and group tickets of 10 or more are $35. Purchase tickets in advance by calling 764-2323 x 355, or by visiting www.lowcountryredcross.org or any GDC Home or Abide-A-While Garden Center location or at Caviar and Bananas.

20

March 20, 2009

Definition of spring According to the astronomical definition, spring begins on the Vernal Equinox (usually March 21 in the Northern Hemisphere), and lasts until the summer solstice (usually June 22 in the Northern Hemisphere). According to this definition, therefore, the day called Midsummer's Day in some traditions is the first day of summer. Meteorologists generally define the beginning of spring as March 1 in the Northern Hemisphere. According to the Celtic tradition ,which is based solely on daylight and the strength of the noon sun, spring begins in early February and continues until early May. Unlike the other three seasons, people in relatively cool climates are likely to use the astronomical definition for the beginning of spring in popular jargon, but retain the meteorological definition for the other three seasonal turning points.

Jokes Q. Why did the birdie go to the hospital? A. To get a tweetment. Q. What bow can't be tied? A. A rainbow! Q. What do you call a cow eating grass in a paddock? A. A lawn mooer Q. Why did the sheep say "moo"? A. It was learning a new language!

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.

Answers for the unscramble: ladys slipper, daffodils, spring, crocus, bluebells. Answer to the secret message: April showers bring May flowers.

Spring is the season of growth. Plant some bulbs, or make a paper flower garden. Look for bird’s nests, but don’t touch the baby birds! And don’t forget to help mom and dad with Spring Cleaning!

No one guessed last weeks Eye Spy. It was a dragon's nose from the IOP Playground. There is a scoop of ice cream waiting for someone! Don't miss your chance this issue.

www.islandeyenews.com

March 20, 2009

IOP Recreation Center www.iop.net 843-886-8294

21

Isle of Palms Rec Center

Tae Kwon Do (12Yrs. +) Lower belt: Monday, 6:30pm7:30pm and Wednesday, 7pm7:45pm. Brown/Black belt: Wednesday, 7:45pm-9:15pm Saturday 10am-12 noon $35 resident, $40 non-resident/mo

Co-Ed Dodgeball Registration March 2 - 27 Fee: $60 per team 18 Yrs. +. Game days: Tuesdays 7pm and 8pm Captain’s meeting April 2 at 6pm Co-Ed Kickball Registration March 2 - 27 Fee: $200 per team 18 Yrs. +. Game days: Sundays Captain’s meeting April 1 at 6pm Canasta 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month 11:30am-2:30pm. Free Mat & Floor Wednesdays, 1:45pm-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. 9:30-11:30am. 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. +) Tuesdays & Thursdays, 12:302pm $80 resident/$85 non-resident/ session. $10 per class

Sports Conditioning Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:156:15pm class $40 resident/$45 non-resident $7 per class Evening Yoga (12 Yrs. +) Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:306:30pm $60 residents/ $65 non-residents/6 weeks. $7 per class

Total Body Challenge Tuesday thru Friday, 8-9am Everyday a different challenge $7 per class or purchase # of classes Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 11 10am SHARP. 12 Yrs. & under East bunny, Jump castles, candy. Free Community Yard Sale Saturday, April 18 8am. Spaces $5 each. Must register by Tuesday, April 14

Poe Library events Poe Library events 1921 Ion Ave Sullivan’s Island 883-3914 Hours: Mon & Fri: 2 - 6 Tues, Thur & Sat: 10 - 2    Story time for the Tuesday morning toddlers and preschooler Tuesdays, April 7, 14, 21, & 28 at 10:30am.

 Story time for Thursday morning pre-schoolers Thursday, April 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 at 10:15-11am.   Do-it-yourself crafts with Grace Dunbar Saturday, April 4, 10am – 12 noon.

Middle School Dance Friday, March 27, 7pm-10pm $5 at the door

Youth Tennis Tuesdays & Thursdays New session begins March 31 6-8 yrs, 4-5pm, 9-12 Yrs, 5-6pm $80 resdient/$85 non-resident Women’s Tennis Tuesdays & Thursdays New session begins March 31 Beginners: 10am-11am Intermediate: 9am-10am $85 resident/$90 non-resident 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 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

Spring Break activities Monday, April 6 Dodgeball . Free Ages 8-12 Yrs, 10:30am-12 noon Ages 13-16 Yrs, 1:30-3pm 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, 10:30am12 noon. Ages 13-16 Yrs, 1:303pm. 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, 1-3pm Hopscotch, Shuffleboard, Four Square, Ping Pong & more Tae Kwon Do Tournament Saturday, March 28, 10am Non-contacting sparring and belt test. Spectators welcome to watch. Adult participants can join anytime. Youth participants can join in June. Youth Drawing April 1 – New session Must pre-register. Minimum four participants to hold class. $50 resident/$55 non-resident

In case of rain, check www.rainedout.com for new dates.

Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 11 at 12 noon.

The Isle of Palms All Start Basketball Team played James Island on Friday, February 27 at Northwoods Gym in North Charleston as part of the South Carolina Southern District (SCAP) Basketball Tournament. The IOP Team played hard and showed great sportsmanship during the tournament. The All Start Team was coached by Phil Charles and assisted by Dave Bailey. Team members included: Dawson Bailey, Owen Bailey, Dylan  Benke, Jordan Capasso, Hartley DePass, Alex Dodenhoff, Adrian Evangelista, Maxim Fisher, Price Nimmich and Vivek Pandey.

www.islandeyenews.com

22

March 20, 2009

Isle of Palms Police Reports The following is a synopsis of some of the activities of the Isle of Palms Police Department during the month of February 2009. Patrol February 1: Just after 1am, an officer responded to Summer House on Palmetto Blvd. in Wild Dunes where someone had reported an intoxicated subject lying on the ground. The subject was awakened and was unable to respond to questions regarding where he was staying. He was also found to be in possession of an open bottle of whiskey. Due to the subject’s condition and inability to care for himself, he was taken into custody and charged with Public Intoxication. February 1: A guest at Summer House reported that someone, described as the intoxicated subject just arrested [in the above report] had kicked their door attempting to make entry, causing several hundred dollars worth of damage to the door frame. Officers were able to determine that the subject that had been arrested was a Citadel cadet, who had been staying with a group on the second floor. Officers were then able to retrieve personal information for the person they had previously arrested. February 1: An officer responded to a reported accident between a truck and a parked car on Ocean Blvd. The officer located the truck, which was parked against a car with the motor running and windshield wipers activated. The driver of the truck was still inside and appeared to be passed out. The officer awakened the subject, who was asked to stay in the vehicle due to his apparent intoxicated condition. When the subject did exit the vehicle he was unable to stand or balance without assistance, so he was taken into custody and charged with Public Intoxication. February 2: Just before 3am, an officer on patrol of the Connector observed a vehicle cross over the white lane markings several times, then use the wrong lane to turn onto Palm Blvd. from the Connector. Once stopped, the female driver submitted to several Field Sobriety Tests, which she failed. A male passenger was found to be in possession of a glass of alcoholic beverage. He was charged with Open Container and allowed to get someone to pick him up and drive him home. While being transported to the Detention Center, the subject being transported yelled profanities at the officer, and once at the Detention Center, the subject refused to exit the vehicle. After being removed from the vehicle and while walking into the Detention Center, the subject kicked the officer in his shin. Once inside of the Datamaster room, while

being monitored by videotape, the subject began twisting the handcuffs around her wrists in order to make marks that she claimed the arresting officer and detention officers inflicted upon her. When the officer moved the handcuff to the front to administer the Datamaster Test, she jerked her wrist and began screaming that she wanted the entire incident on film. During the twenty minute waiting period for the test to be administered, she made several attempts to get up and walk around the room. When the time came to take the test, she refused to participate and was charged with DUI and Assaulting a Police Officer. A Detention Officer provided videotape of the assault from outside surveillance cameras. February 5: An officer observed a vehicle that failed to stop at a stop sign entering Palm Blvd. When the vehicle was stopped, the officer made the determination that the driver did not have a valid driver’s license. The subject was charged with DUS and NRVC. February 5: A resident reported that someone had made numerous unauthorized charges on her bank credit card. Her bank notified her that unusual expenditures were being made. The victim last used her card at a location in Mount Pleasant. The case has been assigned to an Investigator for follow-up. February 6: Officers responded to several 911 calls at a residence on 21st Avenue where a domestic dispute had been reported. Upon arrival, the officers made the determination that an intoxicated female present had made several calls to 911, giving her first name. The female complainant, with the same first name, denied making any calls and was taken into custody, charged with 911 Misuse. A male subject present interfered with the arrest and was also taken into custody, and charged with Hindering. February 8: An officer on patrol on the Connector observed a speeding vehicle and stopped it on Ocean Boulevard near 14th Avenue. While speaking to the driver, the officer immediately detected a strong odor of alcohol, which resulted in a series of Field Sobriety Tests being administered to the driver. After failing those tests, the driver was transported to the Detention Center for a Datamaster Test, where he registered a .13% level of alcohol. He was lodged and charged with DUI.

the premises, but officers were able to obtain a good physical description from witnesses. The subject was located in front of a nearby business and when approached became hostile, loud and boisterous in front of persons walking by. When asked to refrain from using profanities, the subject got louder and more disorderly. He was taken into custody and charged with Disorderly Conduct.

cers located the subject, who insisted that his parents owned the unit he was attempting to enter. Due to the subject’s intoxicated state, he was taken into custody, but refused to get into the back seat of a police vehicle. After numerous commands and warnings to comply, the subject was pepper sprayed, which resulted in compliance. The subject was charged with Public Intoxication and Resisting Arrest.

February 11: Just after midnight, an officer on patrol stopped to assist a male subject who appeared to be changing a tire on 10th Avenue near Palm Boulevard. The officer observed the subject to be unsteady on his feet with a strong odor of alcohol emitting from his person. The officer determined that he was intoxicated, and placed him into custody charged with Public Intoxication.

February 17: Just after midnight, an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle for a moving violation. While speaking to the driver, the officer realized that he had charged the driver in November of 2008 with DUI, which resulted in his license being suspended. The driver presented an altered license to the officer, which resulted in his arrest. He was charged with Failure to Stop before Entering Roadway, DUS for DUI, Obtaining False/Fictitious DL by Fraud, and Possession of Fictitious DL.

February 11: Just before 4am, an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle on Palm Boulevard for having an expired license plate. As the officer approached the vehicle, the driver threw a lit cigarette out of the driver’s window. The officer then observed an open container of brown liquid in the center console that was found to be liquor. The driver was taken into custody charged with Illegal Consumption of Liquor, Littering and Expired Registration. February 13: A vehicle reported stolen from a residence on Carolina Blvd. on January 23, was stopped in Los Angeles, California, by a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy. At the time, four subjects were in the vehicle and one was from Mount Pleasant. Arrests were made in Los Angeles for possession of the stolen vehicle. That same subject was also responsible for at least two Burglaries and Thefts on the Isle of Palms. Arrest Warrants were issued for the suspect. February 13: Arrangements were made for a female subject wanted by the Isle of Palms Police Department to turn herself in due to three outstanding Arrest Warrants for several incidents that occurred while she was employed by a local convenience store in 2007. The charges were Financial Transaction Card Theft, Financial Transaction Card Fraud, and Breach of Trust. An additional outstanding Arrest Warrant issued by the North Charleston Police Department was located. The subject was lodged in the Detention Center.

February 14: Just after midnight, officers responded to a Palmetto February 8: A front beach resDr. condominium unit where it taurant reported a belligerent was reported that a male subject male subject threatening emwas attempting to make entry ployees. Upon the officer’s arinto the complainant’s unit. Offirival the subject had already left www.islandeyenews.com

February 17: An officer on patrol observed a vehicle operated in Wild Dunes by a person that he knew had failed to appear in Municipal Court for recent traffic charges. The vehicle was stopped on Twin Oaks Lane and a computer check of the driver indicated that his license was suspended for failure to pay a ticket. He was charged with DUS 2nd offense and NRVC. February 18: A resident of Lagoon Villas in Wild Dunes reported that he loaned his 2001 Ford Mustang to a female acquaintance and the vehicle has not yet been returned. Contact by the police department had been made with the subject via cell phone, where she was advised to return the vehicle immediately to avoid more serious criminal charges. Several days later, the vehicle was located abandoned by police in the Charlotte area. The owner refused to press charges against the female subject responsible. February 21: A Dorchester County Sheriff’s Investigator conducting a rape investigation needed the assistance of a Spanish- speaking officer. Since the only officer available at the time was an Isle of Palms officer, he responded to a North Charleston location to read a Miranda Warning to the suspect and to assist in the service of a Search Warrant. For the full police reports, please visit www. islandeyenews.sc

March 20, 2009

Do you know your charleston

23

How many Charlestonians does it take to change a lightbulb?

W

e’ll go straight to the mail this trip. Jill Stevenson of Folly Beach writes, “The old customs and mores mentioned in your article are not indigenous to Charleston - they are the manners of the South, sadly lost to another generation. All over the South we sat on our front porches and waved to our neighbors. We still lift a hand in greeting when driving down a country road or passing a car in our neighborhoods. Seldom do we receive a return courtesy wave and certainly not a smile. We are cocooned in our own environment of technological ease, imagining that we do not need the human companionship of the past. How wrong we are!” Jill, there’s an old joke that Yankees wouldn’t be here were it not for bug spray and airconditioning. There’s a lot of truth to that. I would add that the media and the popular culture are just as responsible. We no longer sit on the front porch during the late evening. We no longer see friends and neighbors as we rock; the summer breeze wafting the smells of charcoal and the laughter of children over us as we discover more about one another. We don’t care to listen to Uncle Harry go on about his life lessons. We have traded that for the antiseptic desperate glow of the television screen, the sound of clicks on a computer. Instead of hearing the tinkle of ice and chuckles in the dusk, we hear a muffled laugh track through the din of the air conditioning compressors. We don’t know our neighbors. The majority couldn’t care less about their families lounging in Rochester or Modesto.

By David Farrow Mary Rhett implores, “Do keep up the efforts to maintain a quasi - status quo to transplants. As a ‘airplant’ - person raised outside of Charleston but has long roots in the community - I think the days of walking into anyone’s home on Christmas Eve is gone. I, too, am saddened to think that the current tourist considers the East Side park as part of old City. The East Side park only makes a very expensive water barrier.” Actually, MR, I think if you just walked into someone’s house unannounced these days, you would be shot. This goes back to knowing your neighbor. Before Hugo, we knew very few people around us. A year later, hardened by disaster, anyone who went through it was joined at the hip with the rest of the community. Things went down not long after, though, when “I Survived Hurricane Hugo” shirts showed up in the Market. I have never had the urge to engage in fisticuffs more than when I saw two overweight people from Dubuque wearing those shirts. I wonder if there were any “I Survived Katrina” shirts? For those that don’t know, the “East Side park” that the lass is referring to is the area where the projects were to the east of East Bay. The city of Charleston bulldozed them after the hurricane (for the resident’s sake). Now there is going to be a slavery museum and (surprise!) condos. I should note that it still floods. A more positive thrust was given by Ben Moise who pens, “I enjoyed your perspectives on the changing times. There are still some enclaves of civility to be found around our old burg. I try to enjoy it where I find it and ignore

the rest. I am reminded of the story of how many Charlestonians it takes to change a light bulb. Five: two to hold the ladder, one to mix the Martinis, one to summon the servant to climb the ladder and one to discourse on how light bulbs ain’t what they used to be. Oh, fiddle-dee-dee!” Yes, Ben, and if you tell anyone where those enclaves are, expect a bushel of okra at your door. I’ve been to many lightbulb changings (remember, this was a small town. We had to have something to do). People have accused me of making martinis. That only happened once 35 years ago on Wentworth Street. As this is a family paper, we’ll leave it there. Dana Iselin informs us, “When I came here in 1969 as an Air Force Brat I thought Charleston to be so very rude. If I was out to eat, and there were few places but they were great places - the entire room looked to see who was coming in the door! I soon realized it was locals making sure one did not miss a chance to say hello to a friend. Everyone was family, I never felt so at home in my life.” Dana, I wonder how much of this is age and how much is the change. I remember sitting in the Holly House on Savannah

Ease off on that gas pedal

A

lthough its been up for almost a month, police on both sides of the Ben Sawyer Bridge have been snagging motorists in record numbers as they whip past the new “40 MPH” speed limit signs on both sides of the bridge. The speed limit signs will be up until bridge repair and construction is complete in order to insure the safety of the workers, who have to work within close proximity of the road. So until that new span is in place, keep your gas pedal on island time and take it easy across the Ben Sawyer. www.islandeyenews.com

Highway with the jukeboxes in every booth. Those places had a different smell. I don’t know what it was (anyone?). Indeed were one in the Piccadilly Cafe, every head would shoot up as though we were dogs hearing a whistle. I’m sure there are dozens of places in the City where elite meet to greet. We are just more settled in our ways. Finally a cheery note from David Grant, a fine lad transplanted from California. Says he, “Change is with us; inevitable, unconcerned, unfeeling. Nothing is exempt. Get over it.” As is history, David. I can’t argue that you’re wrong. I can point out that change seems to be overwhelming us at a rate we can’t comprehend. I contend that by getting over it, we accept the current status quo. I reject the concept that we are powerless in the face of change. Part of that is bemoaning the aforementioned lightbulb. That’s my job. Where are those martinis? David Farrow is a local author of ancient, royal Charlestonian blood. His writings and observations can be found at http://davidfarrow. wordpress.com. Drop by and leave a comment!