Island Connection - September 4, 2009

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON SC PERMIT NO 437

Volume 3 Issue 10

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September 4, 2009

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Immortalizing the dying south

eabrooker Mary Whyte didn’t know what she was getting into during a recent visit to Greenville, South Carolina. While working on the portrait of a local bank president, she heard that a nearby textile mill was shutting down. The person who told her the news sadly shrugged their shoulders and said, “It was going to happen anyway. That profession will be gone in ten years.” That one comment caused the wheels in Mary’s head to begin turning furiously and within a short period of time, she was whisking across the South, gathering the men and women of America’s dying professions and capturing them in watercolor. Her portfolio for the series, aptly entitled “Working South”, is haunting. The full sized paintings are set to be on display in the Greenville Museum in 2011, but the eight by eleven images of her major works tell stories that no writer could put in words. There’s the bent old woman, her wiry white hair knotted in a tight bun, holding the corner of a king sized quilt hanging from the wall behind her. Her hands are starkly detailed, the blue and purple veins crisscrossing the bones under a paper thin layer of mottled skin. Her late husband’s wedding ring was sown into that blanket, said Mary, as she looked at the portrait. Another shows a jovial round woman with a colorful sweatshirt Seabrook Island resident and internationally acclaimed artist Mary Whyte sits in front of a watercolor from her recent series “Working South”. standing behind the counter of one of the last herring smokehouses in the country. Mary Whyte is an artist, author and The show actually follows Whyte as Mary pointed at the tip jar sitting slightly crumbling graveyard underneath the bent, she works on the New Orleans funeral moss-covered limbs of a giant Banyan tree. teacher. She is nationally recognized for her askew on top of the freezer display case. “I painting for the Working South series. The painting, said Mary, is of one of the figurative watercolor paintings of the rural loved the character of that jar,” she smiled, Other subjects portrayed in Whyte’s series last funeral bands in New Orleans. “They people of South Carolina. Whyte’s paintings pointing at the tears and smudges on the include cotton pickers, boat builders, marched two by two into the cemetery have been exhibited in the nation’s most “tips” label which she’d incorporated into the painting. A detailed dollar bill lay in playing gospel music,” she said. And in textile mill workers, crabbers, the shoe prestigious shows, and her work hangs in order to capture the moment just right, shine man, and shrimpers. Traveling the numerous private and museum collections. solidarity in the bottom of the jar. On this day, however, Mary Whyte she had them circle her time and again as South for three and a half years, Whyte Mary has been recently featured in the has taken the unseen and given them a magazines International Artist, American was preparing to ship a painting to the she painted furiously on her canvas. Mary Whyte, known for her mastery face we cannot easily forget. The specific Artist, and at the Portrait Society of Greenville Museum for the “Working South” series. It’s a large piece, with a of the painting medium watercolor, is to date of the episode will be posted at www. American conference in Washington, DC. faded quality reminiscent of heat and be the subject of CBS television’s “Sunday colemanfineart.com as soon as it is made This September she will be featured in the late summer/early fall in the South. In Morning” in early September. “Sunday available. For more information, please premier European watercolor magazine Art it, a troop of elderly African-American Morning” is a news magazine program, contact Coleman Fine Art 853-7000. de L’Aquarelle. musicians are working their way through a airing from 9am–10:30am EST on Sunday mornings on the local CBS affiliate.

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page 4 Grape Stomp

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Con nection. . .

page 10 The nude

page 14 Belted Kingfishers

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Seabrook Town Council – August 25, 2009

Financials “There’s not an awful lot to talk about,” said Mayor McNulty as he read through this month’s financial report. Revenues for this year-to-date are $587,470.46, which is $118,892.97, or 17%, less than this same time last year. However, it’s better by $54,509.38 than budgeted. “Business licenses, local option and investments are all down,” said the

The Island Connection Lynn Pierotti Publisher [email protected] Kristin Hackler Managing Editor [email protected] Swan Richards Graphic Designer [email protected] Ali Akhyari Assistant Editor [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Ashleigh McHenry Advertising [email protected] Interns Dylan Sharek Paul Robinson Ben Gilbert Contributors Jennifer Barbour Chris Brooks Chamber Music Charleston Cindy Covert Paul Covert Dwight Ives Sam Reed Rosebank Farms James T. Sears, Ph.D Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Future deadlines: September 9 for submissions.

Op-Ed articles do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Lucky Dog News or its writers.

Mayor, but it’s about what they expected. As for expenses, this year-to-date came to $277,374.36, which is $47,930.01 better than what was budgeted. “We still have several items that need to go through, like the audit bill and some legal bills, but we’re on budget and doing better than last year,” the Mayor reported. Revenues over expenditures for this year-to-date are $310,096.10 as opposed to last year’s $399,515.40. Recoding the Municipal Code Faye Creel of the Municipal Code Corporation (MCC) presented her company’s process of recodification to the Council, explaining how their employees go through all of the Ordinances passed by the Town and check them against the County and State laws for inconsistencies, and then check them against other Town Ordinances for the same. A proof of the corrected Town Code would then be sent to the Council before the final electronic code and hard copy were compiled. Creel pointed out that the entire code would also be made available on the MCC website, along with the codes of 3,500 other municipalities, for immediate online referencing. The online service also comes with a N.O.W. (New Ordinances on the Web) service, wherein newly passed Ordinances are posted under “electronic updates” on the Town’s code website. The online code is included the first year, but would cost $400/ year after that.

well as satellite communications and generators of any size, when needed. “We’re endorsed by Ready.gov and FEMA,” said Gagnon. “We’ll have you back up and running in 48 hours.” For more information, visit www. agilityrecovery.com. Mayor McNulty thanked Gagnon, noting that the Town is working with Scott Cave at the moment, but stated that their services sounded like something they should consider. Fixin’ up the office Under capital expenditures, Mayor McNulty remarked that there were a handful of items that needed to be taken care of around Town Hall, including a replacement computer server, the recodification of the Ordinances, the completion of the men’s room (“We finished the ladies room first, so now we need to take care of the men’s room,” the Mayor smiled), retiling the foyer, new carpet, and a new color copier. The total of the expenditures comes to approximately $56,000. “However, we just found out that our current generator provides enough power to keep our lights going, but not enough power to keep the computers going,” said the Mayor. “We have an

A tree grows in Johns Island “Last week, the South Carolina

Correction: In the August 21, 2009, edition, the Green Canitizer story listed an incorrect web address. The web page for Green Canitizer is: www.greencanitizer.com. Kiawah Island Town Hall 21 Beachwalker Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Phone: 768-9166 Fax: 768-4764 Email: [email protected] Seabrook Island Town Hall 2001 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, SC 29455 Phone: 768-9121 Fax: 768-9830 Email: [email protected] Johns Island Council Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Hwy, John’s Island. Chairman Chris Cannon: 343-5113 Charleston County Council 4045 Bridge View Drive, North Charleston (843) 958-4700

Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC Publishers of Island Eye News, The Island Connection and The Folly Current.

Department of Transportation gave a presentation to the Johns Island Council,” said the Mayor. The presentation, which gave an overview of several trees which either need to be removed or significantly trimmed along the narrow Johns Island roads, was given by arborist and Charleston County Planning Commission representative Joel Evans, who was present at today’s Council meeting to give a similar presentation. Evans briefly walked the Council through the criteria for tree removal and trimming, noting that the original number of trees which the DOT recommended for removal was 33. “After examining the trees,” said Evans, “we found that only five trees need to be removed completely, and six need to be trimmed.” Councilman Holtz asked Evans about the possibility of hiring an arborist to come out and evaluate all of the trees lining Johns Island’s major roads. “It’s something that has to be done and we can’t wait for the bureaucracy; no offense,” he said, apologizing to Evans. “I would support it 100%,” said Evans. Mayor McNulty stated that he would call Kiawah Island Mayor William Wert and discuss the idea. “We’ll see if we can come up with a plan,” said McNulty.

September 4, 2009

City of Charleston 75 Calhoun St. (843) 724-3745

Trees up for removal on Johns Island.

Disaster continuity Brian Gagnon of Agility Recovery Solutions was the final speaker at the Council meeting, and his presentation addressed disaster recovery solutions for businesses and municipalities. “We’re like AAA for businesses,” he said. “We take care of power, space and connectivity.” According to Gagnon, Agility is used across the nation and is currently in discussions with the American Red Cross and the federal government for the use of their services. Agility provides either mobile office space or class A office space for their clients in case of disaster, as

estimate for no more than $40,000 on a new generator, but that would bring the total on capital expenditures to $100,000.” After approving the loan to the Utility Commission (see next section), the available general fund balance is approximately $876,300. After the expenditures, but with the inclusion of the emergency fund balance, the Mayor stated that there would still be approximately $1,101,300.00 available for the Town’s protection. The Council approved $100,000 for capital expenditures unanimously. SI Council continued on page 3

Civic Calendar

Monday, September 7

Labor Day Kiawah and Seabrook offices will be closed

Wednesday, September 9

3327 Maybank Highway, Johns Island Kiawah Island Environmental Committee 3pm - 5pm Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room

Seabrook Island Planning Commission All Planning Commission meetings will be held at 2:30pm at the Town Hall unless noted otherwise on the Town bulletin board.

Monday, September 21

Monday, September 14

Tuesday, September 22

St. Johns Fire District Commission 7pm St. Johns Commission Building

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Kiawah Island Board of Zoning Appeals 4pm - 5pm Town Hall Council Chambers

Seabrook Island Town Council All Town Council meetings will be held at 2:30pm at the Town Hall unless noted otherwise on the Town bulletin board.

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September 4, 2009 SI Council continued from page 2 Loan to the Utility Commission Mayor McNulty reported that he had met with a financial representative and stated that he is comfortable with placing the $425,000 needed by the Utility Commission to serve as temporary insurance for their bondholders in two year CDs. He stated that he spoke with the Town attorney about the situation and the attorney suggested that the Town loan that amount to the Utility Commission with the expectation of having the loan amount plus interest returned to the Town. “About seven things still need to be done, but it will be handled and insured,” said the Mayor. The $425,000 is protected up to $250,000 by the FDIC, and the bank has

agreed to pledge government securities for the remaining amount. Also, since the Town has historically given $200,000 each year to the Utility Commission to distribute back to its customers, the Mayor felt that the Town needed to continue with that practice. “We know we’re down from last year, but we’re on safe ground as to where we’ll be at the end of the year,” said the Mayor before suggesting the Town give $400,000 to the Utility Commission $200,000 for last year, which the Town missed, and $200,000 for this year. “We’re still discussing how we’ll do this, but we’ll figure it out,” said McNulty. The motion to give $400,000 to the Utility Commission to be given back to its clients was approved unanimously.

A roads rebuttal

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By Sam Reed

t is not my nature to respond publicly to citizens who have taken positions with which I disagree. However, in reading the August 21, 2009, issue of The Island Connection, there were some writings which caught my attention. This is probably because I (along with many others) have expended so much time and effort in pointing out the dangers of the existing Bohicket and River Roads on Johns Island. Thousands of Charleston County drivers regularly traverse these roads, putting their lives and property in danger. Please check these out-dated roads for yourself if you have not already done so. It is amazing that a writer characterized official statistics secured from the South Carolina Department of Safety as provided by police officers on the scenes as “not objectively based on available statistics”. I agree that better driving habits would help, but human nature being what it is, we need to ask our leaders to provide safe driving facilities when possible. It is true that money is required, but prioritization of what is best for the most people should help with funding. The writer further charges “irresponsible confabulation” against statements attributing traffic deaths to “narrow lanes, sharp curves, lack of shoulders … and nearby live oaks”. It is my opinion that it is truly irresponsible to ignore these deficiencies. In talking about “congestion”, it is argued that the conclusions reached are “disingenuous and specious”. All one needs to do is to drive these roads on a regular basis at various times of day. A properly designed greenway need not be exceedingly expensive, and certainly need not be disruptive to the beauty and natural environment of Johns Island. It should enhance the ambiance and attractiveness of this wholesome area. Those supporting this needed safety improvement do not plead guilty to “obfuscation”, nor do we feel that we “look foolish” to realistic users of Johns Island roads. Most of the alternative proposals to deal with this well-documented safety issue are likely to be more costly than a new greenway. Too much time, dedication, and efforts have been invested in this issue to let counter-positions go unchallenged.

Funding the General Fund Mayor McNulty applauded Town Administrator Randy Pierce for renegotiating the cost of the Comprehensive Plan rewrite from $10,000 down to $4,530, and requested approval for returning the remaining $5,470 to the General Fund. The motion was approved unanimously. In the same vein, McNulty noted that the $20,500 in the Court Bank Account did not see much use except in paying judges and the occasional class for Council and Town staff. The Mayor suggested moving all but $5,000 in that account back into the General Fund. The motion was also approved unanimously. Approval of the Charleston Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan The Town has traditionally accepted the Charleston Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan every year and Town Administrator Peirce pointed out that not much had changed in this year’s plan. By accepting the Hazard Mitigation Plan, said Pierce, the Town receives credit toward their flood insurance coverage. “My flood insurance keeps going up, but I’m sure you’re doing a good job,” Councilman Holtz joked. To read the full document, visit www. charlestoncounty.org, The Council approved the acceptance of the Plan unanimously.

First reading of Ordinance 2009-05: Jenkins Point property rezoning “This went through the Planning Commission and has been posted for two months,” said Pierce. “The Planning Commission recommends approval.” The Ordinance is to rezone .25 acres that is being subdivided from Parcel 149-0000-059 (residual acreage of Jenkins Point Plantation) from Agricultural General to Agricultural Single Family. A parcel will be then subdivided from 149-00-00-005 and combined with the .25 acres to create Lot #62 to make a 1.01 acre lot. Council approved the Ordinance unanimously. Charleston Visitors Bureau Katie Chapman of the Charleston Visitors Bureau was happy to report that their press coverage book for Charleston is getting bigger and bigger each year. She gave a copy of the book to the Council, as well as a copy of their newly released wedding book. Chapman also noted that they have received 22 mentions in national publications as a result of the Travel Writers Association visit in June. The next Seabrook Island Town Council meeting will be held at 2:30pm in Council Chambers on September 22, with a Public Hearing on Ordinance 2009-05 taking place at 2:20pm.

Sip and stroll through a southern afternoon

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here is a peace about Middleton Place that is hard to match. Just after crossing the border between Charleston and Summerville, the right side of old highway 61 opens up to manicured pastures, massive live oaks and long lines of elegantly simple fencing. It doesn’t take much to encourage anyone who has been to Middleton Place once to make the short trip back, but if you’ve never visited this partially working plantation, the staff at Middleton Place is offering an excellent reason to drop by. Every Wednesday from 5:30pm – 7pm from now until the end of November, Middleton Place is holding wine tastings under the oaks. For only $10, oenophiles, history buffs and those that just enjoy catching sunsets across the marsh grasses and the glassy surface of the Ashley River can enjoy a selection of eight to ten wines in the formal front lawn of Middleton Place. After sipping through the samples, attendees are invited to walk the gardens at no cost. Wine Stroll participants are urged to extend their evening with dinner at the Middleton Place Restaurant, which features a nice selection of entrees and appetizers prepared with local produce, and a significant wine collection of their own. For more information about Middleton’s wine strolls, visit www.middletonplace.org or call 556-6020. For dinner reservations, call 266-7477.

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Grape Stomp ‘09

Irvin House vineyards, Wadmalaw Island August 29, 2009

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September 4, 2009

September 4, 2009

Mozart in the South

Making a difference in difficult times

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Provided by Chamber Music Charleston

By Chris Brooks

he recession has produced many difficult challenges for the Rural Mission during 2009, but He continues to provide, and this gives us faith. The low income rural families, the elderly, migrant families and the at-risk children and youth we serve are suffering greatly in hardships and poverty.  The people with the least are bearing the greatest burdens of this recession, but one family at a time, we are continuing to bring them uplifting hope and assistance. The Mission has been tremendously blessed and is thankful for the outpouring of volunteers seeking to give of themselves this past year.  They may not be able to give financially,  but they have dedicated themselves to discipleship. Many have renewed their relationship with the Rural Mission from past years and many have come for the first time. All denominations are represented.   Not since the outpouring of love in the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo have they come in such numbers to the rural Sea Islands.  Our volunteers know that people are suffering and they want to help.  One wonderful example of such caring and commitment has been the large numbers of volunteers who have worked since the groundbreaking in June on a new, safe and adequate home for Mrs. Shirley Smiley and her family near

The old beside the new – the blessing of hope!

Hollywood. Their very old and dilapidated trailer home has not only been falling apart; it was also making them sick .  This picture was taken on August 18, and it shows how far we have come.   Shirley and her family have been there side by side each day with our volunteers.   These memories and bonds of love, friendship and respect will stay with everyone for a lifetime.   Volunteers have returned home with the joy and blessings of giving and with Shirley’s endearing smile and her sincere expressions of gratitude.  She has been ever present, with bottles of water and Gatorade and popsicles to make these hot days a little easier. Help us to repeat this wonderful story for the many still waiting to be helped.  The Rural Mission provides a convenient and secure means to donate to our outreach ministry online by going to www.ruralmission.org.  The donate now link is right on the homepage.  Do this in memory or in honor of someone special in your life!  Please help us to continue providing hope to these desperate families.  Please support our many volunteers who continue to come. Their growth through discipleship depends upon the contributions and gifts of many.  Donations can also be mailed to PO Box 235, Johns Island, SC  29457, or by calling 768-1720.

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hamber Music Charleston is pleased to announce their inaugural music festival Mozart in the South, which will take place September 10-13, 2009. “This festival celebrates classical music in Charleston, [and it will be an opportunity] to share with both visitors and residents the musical opportunities which exist in this cultural and historic City, and the phenomenal talent of the professional musicians who call Charleston home,” says Sandra Nikolajevs, Director of Chamber Music Charleston and producer of the festival. The four-day festival will consist of a variety of performances and educational events. Highlighting the festival will be chamber music and orchestral concerts performed by musicians of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music Charleston. World renowned pianist Andrew Armstrong will join the orchestra for Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, K. 288. Praised by critics for his passionate expression and dazzling technique, Armstrong has delighted audiences around the world. He has performed solo recitals and appeared with orchestras in Asia, Europe, Latin America and the United States, including performances at Alice Tully Hall, Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy

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Center, the Grand Hall of the Moscow Conservatory and Warsaw’s National Philharmonic. While the evening and afternoon performances will target classical music enthusiasts, families will be encouraged to explore the magic of music at the outdoor “Little Mozart Circus” on Saturday, September 12. This daylong celebration will create a wonderful environment for all things related to music education – from performances by Chamber Music Charleston ensembles and school groups to interactive musical experiences led by professional musicians. Various arts organizations will be on hand with information and demonstrations. The most intimate experience of the festival will be Chamber Music Charleston’s annual “Chamber Music Soiree” on September 12 at the Calhoun Mansion, 16 Meeting Street. The evening begins with a delightful garden reception followed by a performance in the mansion’s music room, an exquisite space boasting priceless artwork, elaborate chandeliers and a 45 foot covered glass skylight. A post-concert champagne and dessert reception brings the evening to a festive conclusion. For more information, please visit www. MozartInTheSouth.org or call 763-4941.

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Allstate welcomes North Light

.M. Best Co. has assigned a financial strength rating of A (Excellent) and an issuer credit rating of “a” to North Light Specialty Insurance Company. The outlook assigned to both ratings is stable. North Light is a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate Insurance Company, with both companies having as their ultimate parent, the Allstate Corporation. All companies are domiciled in Northbrook, IL, unless otherwise specified. The ratings are based on North Light’s solid risk-adjusted capitalization and operating support provided by the affiliates of Allstate Insurance Group. This operating support is demonstrated by a 100% quota share reinsurance contract with Allstate Insurance Company for countrywide business (excluding Florida and New Jersey). In the event North Light commences writing business in Florida and/or New Jersey, a similar 100% quota share reinsurance contract will be implemented with an Allstate subsidiary. It is anticipated that the Florida business will be reinsured with Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and the New Jersey business will be reinsured with Allstate New Jersey Insurance Company prior to North Light beginning to write business in those states. Operating support is provided by the same underwriting,

pricing and claims infrastructure that is used by Allstate Insurance Group. North Light offers personal lines property coverage on a non-admitted basis for unique, underserved customer segments or those residing in high risk markets such as hurricane, wildfire or earthquake-prone regions. Therefore, the positive rating attributes are partially offset by North Light’s significant gross catastrophe leverage and the execution risk associated with underwriting, pricing and handling claims on this highly catastrophe exposed business. However, the gross catastrophe exposure is reduced to a nominal level on a net basis through quota share reinsurance currently provided by Allstate Insurance Company. For Best’s Credit Ratings, an overview of the ratings process and rating methodologies, please visit www.ambest.com/ratings. The principal methodologies used in determining these ratings, including any additional methodologies and factors, which may have been considered, can be found at www. ambest.com/ratings/methodology. Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a global full-service credit rating organization dedicated to serving the financial and health care service industries, including insurance companies, banks, hospitals and health care system providers. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

September 4, 2009

The cost of a good student

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couple weeks before school went back into session, Hebron Zion Presbyterian Church was overflowing with school supplies. Shirts, pants, socks, pens, pencils, notebooks, erasers, backpacks and everything a student could need were carefully laid out in the Fellowship Hall. The items were collected throughout the year by church members, as well as through a statewide program known as the “Hands On Program”. As the students arrived, volunteers from the church walked them through the room, helping the “shoppers” pick out school supplies and offering their support in whatever way they could. “We just love up on them,” said James Parlor, a senior vestry member and a member of the Hebron Zion John and Mattie Washington Preschool advisory board. “We just want them to know that there are people who love them and care about them. It means more to them than you would think.” It’s this philosophy that has made the John and Mattie Washington Preschool at Hebron Zion such a success with their students. Although it’s a small program, able to host a maximum of 35 children under the age of four at any given time, the preschool has made significant impacts in the lives of both island children and their parents. “We’ll never turn a child away because

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their parents can’t pay,” said Parlor. “Some of these folks come to us with tears in their eyes, telling us that they’re working as hard as they can, but it’s a scuffle.” So even though it costs the church money, $125 per child/per week in fact, they welcome them with open arms. Although Hebron Zion does what it can to keep up with the demand, they are in desperate need of funding. “It doesn’t have to be big; $20, $25 … every little bit helps,” said Parlor. The school does what it can as a non-profit, and works with the Social Service’s ABC program for partial funding, but as with any government agency, funds are always slow to arrive and never make it before the bills are due. The school’s enrollment is increasing, and the volunteers and staff at Hebron Zion are excited about working with this year’s students, but they are looking for whatever help anyone can offer. “We have our boots on,” said Parlor, “we’re just trying to get the straps up.” For more information, you can reach Hebron Zion Presbyterian at 559-0865. Their physical address is 2915 Bohicket Rd, Johns Island and their mailing address is P.O. Box 1143, Johns Island, SC 29457. Hebron Zion will be holding a food giveaway for needy families this September. Check the Island Connection calendar in upcoming issues for the exact date.

September 4, 2009

Pocket markets for high end home sales

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By James T. Sears, PhD

here has been good news on existing home sales in recent weeks. Nationally, sales of previously owned homes have improved and locally pending home sales have increased as first time buyers take advantage of the federal tax credit. However, a Wall Street Journal article, after previously reporting other improvements in the U.S. housing market, published a caveat: home sales are improving nationally at the “low and moderately priced” range but on the “upper end” ($750k+), “Sales remain mired in a deep slump and price declines are expected to accelerate.” Many of the home sales (especially single family homes) in island communities within the Charleston area fall into the upper range. For some—notably Isle of Palms, Kiawah, and Sullivan’s Island—even the median listing price is well above the $750k price point. And, as I have reported elsewhere (see www.searspartners.com), about a third of Seabrook Island listings are in this high-end range (another 41% also require “jumbo” loans being at or above $471k). Just as home sales vary across the country, so do they across various Lowcountry communities and neighborhoods. Table 1 compares all houses (single family and attached homes) listed and sold on the Charleston-Trident Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for the first half of 2009 compared to the same period a year ago. This allows comparison across island communities and across time. For purposes of this comparison, it should be noted that only a minority of Kiawah homes are listed/sold through the MLS. Although some generalized and common sense patterns were found (generally new listings were down, median sales prices lower, days on the market higher), differences were found on every dimension among these communities. Table 1: Comparison of All Home Sold through MLS, Jan-Jun 2008 vs. Jan-Jun 2009 for Selected Island Communities:

As shown in Table 1, there were more listings on the MLS during the first six months of 2009 than in 2008 for Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island and Kiawah. Further, the latter two recorded an increase in the median price of new listings. Sullivan’s Island—unlike the others—also recorded more residential properties sold between this year and last. The greatest percentage of decrease in the number of homes sold was found on the Isle of Palms, which as one would expect also evidenced the greatest percentage increase of days on the market (DOM) before a property was sold (from 76 to 258). In contrast, Sullivan’s Island saw DOM slashed by one-third (from 257 to 168). There were also island differences in the median price for which a home sold from 2008 to the same period this year. The sales price was up on Daniel Island, level on Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, and down on Seabrook, Isle of Palms, and Kiawah. Further evidence of the relative strength of the housing market on Daniel Island is apparent when comparing the difference between final list price and sales price. The average home sold on the MLS was 93% of the listed price. The LP/SP ratio also remained constant (but lower, 91%) on Folly Beach. The greatest absolute drop between 2008 and 2009 was on Seabrook (from 94% to 87%) and the greatest percentage decline was the Isle of Palms. The relative changes in each community from the first half of 2008 to the same period this year for each of these dimensions is shown in Table 2. Table 2: Percentage Change of All Homes Sold Thru MLS, Jan-Jun 08 vs. Jan-Jun 09:

table 2 table 1

So, what do the data show regarding the upper-end of the real estate market? Comparing the first half of 2008 to 2009 across these island communities, a small increase in share in Sullivan’s Island and Daniel Island was found for residential sales at $750k or above. The former increased 5 percentage points (from 86% to 91%) and the latter by 3 (16% to 19%). All of the other communities found market sales at the higher-end shrinking in comparison to those in the lower ranges. The most dramatic changes were on Folly Beach with 2009 sales at 43% of the 2008 level and Seabrook at just at half of the percentage sold in 2008.

From these data, the Wall Street Journal’s conclusion that the market for high-end homes is “mired in a deep slump” is only partially true. Even within the limited Charleston metro area, there are pockets of improving high-end sales. Further, one can reasonably anticipate improvements in our regional real estate market to be differentiated among the island communities even as national economic conditions improve. James T. Sears, PhD, is a Realtor and Real Estate Analyst. As an Accredited Buyer Representative, he specializes in residential real estate on the islands and investment properties in Charleston. More data are available at www.searspartners.com and he can be reached at [email protected]

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September 4, 2009

Friday, September 4 Last day for Seabrook Island candidacy filing Interested parties may obtain further information and the necessary forms from the Municipal Clerk by phoning 7685320 weekdays or by contacting one of the members of the Election Commission and arranging an appointment convenient to both parties.

Saturday, September 5 Flights on the Liberty Belle Flights on the most recently restored World War II Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Liberty Belle” will be offered at the Charleston

The Tryal of Major Stede Bonnet alias the Gentleman Pirate The performance takes place both inside and outside of Charleston’s Historic Powder Magazine. The Powder Magazine, 79 Cumberland St. Starting at 4:30pm. Admission is $8-$12. For more info, call 534-6169, email Rodneyleerogers@gmail. com, and visit www.puretheatre.org.

Ta k e a p a g e Johns Island Regional Library 3531 Maybank Highway 559-1945 Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10 – 8 Friday & Saturday: 10 – 6 Sunday: 2 – 5 Wee Reads (under 24 months with adult) Mondays, September 14, 21, and 28 at 10:30am Time for Twos (2–3 years old with adult) Tuesdays, September 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 10:30am Preschool Storytime (3–6 years) Wednesdays, September 9, 16, 23, and 30 at 10:30am Saturday Family Storytime (all ages) Saturdays, September 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 11am Excel Basics (adults/young adults) Tuesday, September 8 from 10am – 12 Computer Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, September 14 from 6 – 8pm Mail Merge Magic (adults/young adults) Tuesday, September 15 from 10am – 12 Noon Keyboard Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, September 21 from 6 – 8pm PowerPoint Basics (adults/young adults) Tuesday, September 22 from 10am – 12 Noon Internet Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, September 28 from 6 – 8pm Publisher: Create a Calendar for the School Year (adults/young adults) Tuesday, September 29 from 10am – 12 Noon *All computer classes are free. For more information please call 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session. Wired (grades 6-12) Wednesdays, September 9 and 23 from 3:30–4:30pm Toddler Time (1 to 3 years) Thursday, September 10, 17, and 24 at 4pm.

Island Connec

Executive Airport on Johns Island on Saturday and Sunday from 10am - 5pm. Flights are 45 minutes. For more info, contact contact Scott Maher at (918) 3400243.

 Saturday Movie: Bedtime Stories (all ages) Saturday September 12 at 3pm Rated; PG; 99 minutes. Learn more about the actors and check out books to take home from our book display. Sponsor: The UPS Store, 3575 Maybank Highway, John’s Island. Sea Islands Book Club (adults) Tuesday, September 15 at 2pm We’ll be discussing Who Do You Think You Are?: a Memoir by Alyse Myers. TLT: Teen Lab Time (grades 6-12) Wednesdays, September 16 and 30 from 4 - 6pm Big Trucks and More! (all ages) Saturday, September 19 at 2pm Free Legal Clinic: Wills, Estates & Probate (adults) Thursday, September 24 at 6pm Local attorney, Charles S. Goldberg, Esq., will provide a 30-45 minute lecture on wills, estates and probate issues followed by an open question and answer session. For more information, call the SC Bar Pro Bono Program, 1-800-395-3425, ext. 158, or log on to www.scbar.org/clinics. MOJA Festival (all ages) Thursday, September 24 to Sunday, October 4. Visit the Children’s Desk to learn more about the MOJA Festival.  We will also have a series of word search activities focused on African American and Caribbean Arts.

August 21 - S Sunday, September 6 Lowcountry Wine and Beer Festival Door prizes, wine and beer from around the world, a live and silent auction, and jazz music performed by the Cobblestone Trio. Tickets are $25 (advance) or $30 at the gate. Purchase locations: First Federal on Folly Road, the Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic, Schoen Ace Hardware, Rosebank Farms Café, Resort Quest, Indigo Books, Guest Services at Freshfields Village, Seabrook Island Real Estate, the Town of Kiawah office, and Kiawah Island Real Estate. For more info, call Eugenia Beach at 266-9800.

Monday, September 7

Highway, Johns Island.  For more info, contact Martha Harris at 559-6955.

Thursday, September 10 Mozart in the South opening day Opening day kicks off with a chamber music performances at 7pm at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 405 King Street.  The concert includes musicians of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music Charleston performing Mozart’s Flute Quartet in A Major, K. 298, Haydn’s String Quartet in g minor, Op. 74 No. 3 and Mozart’s Serenade No. 11 in E flat, K. 375.  Tickets may be purchased at www.MozartInTheSouth.org or by calling 763-4941. 

Labor Day

Friday, September 11

Wednesday, September 9

Patriot’s Day

St. Johns Rotary Club The St Johns Rotary Club meets regularly at 7:30am each Wednesday morning in the multipurpose room at Berkeley Electric Cooperative located at 3351 Maybank

National Day of Caring Mozart in the South Starting at 7pm at the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul (126 Coming Street,

Attention: Seabrook Island newcomers

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on’t miss the October cocktail mixer in the Osprey room of the new SIPOA Lake House on October 23, 2009, from 5 to 7:30pm. If you have purchased property in the past year or were unable to attend a previous party, you are welcome to join us. This is a great opportunity to build new friendships, learn about the many special interest groups, volunteer opportunities, and meet first hand with key Seabrook Island leadership individuals. Invitations will be mailed this month, so please RSVP. If you would like to join and have not received an invitation, please call Cindy Willis at 768-8301 or Jan McBride at 768-3696. The Newcomers Committee of the SIPOA and the Seabrook Island Club is eager to welcome you and facilitate a positive transition to our Seabrook community.

Displays: Manga Art Othell Brown’s art focuses on manga he created named Legion. His display will consist of twelve pieces with the main character Tiavia and an assortment of supporting characters. His manga features people of African descent as main characters. Quilt Display Local master quilter Nora Williams will display her mud cloth quilt, “The Family.” Her handcrafted quilt depicts an African father, mother, and child. Wall Hangings Display Nora Williams will exhibit several unique, handmade African-inspired wall hangings of various sizes, themes, and patterns.

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September 4, 2009

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ction Calendar

St. Johns Rotary Club See Wednesday, September 9.

September 4 Downtown Charleston), the Mozart in the South Festival Orchestra will perform Schubert’s Symphony No. 5 in B flat Major, D. 485 and Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, K. 488.   Tickets may be purchased at www.MozartInTheSouth.org or by calling 763-4941. 

Saturday, September 12 Seabrook Adopt-a-Highway Meet at 9am in the SIPOA administrative office parking lot on Landfall Way.  If you are a Seabrooker and are available to help, please contact Linda Sivert at sivert.linda@ comcast.net. Chamber Music Soiree At the Calhoun Mansion (16 Meeting Street) starting at 6pm. Tickets are $75 and proceeds benefit Chamber Music Charleston’s educational programs.  Limited tickets are available and advance purchase is required.  Tickets may be purchased at www.ChambeMusicCharleston.org or by calling 763-4941.  Open Farm Saturdays Legare Farms will be open one Saturday each month to do fun activities (hayrides, animal feeding, etc.) with children and adults depending on the month. Lunch in the picnic area is included. From 9am to 12pm. Reservations required. The cost is $20 for adults and $15 for children, which includes lunch. For more info or to make reservations, call 559-0763 or visit www. legarefarms.com. Little Mozart Circus A one day event celebrating classical music and its role in the lives of children!  Enjoy performances in the “Big Tent” by professional musicians and school ensembles, participate in a beginning instrumental class or join a Musik Garten class. From 10am – 4pm in Marion Square, downtown. For more info, visit www. mozartinthesouth.org.

Saturday, September 19 Sunday, September 13 Grandparent’s Day Mozart it the South closing performance At 4pm at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 405 King Street. Musicians of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music Charleston will perform Mozart’s Symphony no. 29 in A Major, K. 201 and Tschaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70.  Tickets may be purchased at www.MozartInTheSouth.org or by calling 763-4941. 

38th Annual Scottish Highland Games From 9am to 5pm at Boone Hall Plantation. Competitions include heavy Scottish athletics, piping and drumming, Highland dancing, wrestling, Border Collie demonstrations, children’s games, Scottish merchandise, food and more. See charlestonscots.org for details and visit www.boonehallplantation.com to purchase tickets, or call 884-4371.

Tuesday, September 15 Seabrook Island Art Guild (SIAG) meeting Joyce Hall Ahrens will hold a demonstration using oil paints; refreshment will be served. The Seabrook Island Art Guild meets on the third Tuesday of every month at the new Lake House at 7pm. The Guild also meets each Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm. If you would like to join the Guild, membership dues are $20/ year. For more information, please contact Robert McBride at 768-3696 or visit www. seabrookislandartguild.com.

Wednesday, September 16 Shellfish season begins Seabrook Blood Drive From 10:30am to 4pm at the Oyster Catcher Community Center. Third annual CATR Blue Ribbon Event Starting at 12 noon at the Francis Marion Hotel, 387 King Street, Downtown Charleston. Featuring guest speaker Sally Hughes Smith, the Blue Ribbon Event is an annual fundraiser for the Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding Center Scholarship Fund. Tickets are are $60.  For more info, please call 559-6040, email catradmin@ wildblue.net or visit www.catrfarms.org.

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Jane Austen Society meeting The S.C. Region of the Jane Austen Society begins it’s 16th year today  with a roundtable discussion of the novels Jane Austen (and her characters) read. Please join us at 1:30 at the Berkeley Electric Bldg., 3351 Maybank Hwy., Johns Island. For more information, call 768-6453. Kiawah Beach and River Sweep The group will meet at 8:30am at Night Heron Park and will sweep the beach front and river side of Kiawah until 12 noon. Gloves, bags and light refreshments will be provided. To volunteer, email Brad Schmoll at [email protected] or call the Heron Park Nature Center at 768-6001.

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Action and adventure in The Nude

s much as we admonish others and remind ourselves with the oft quoted saying, the majority of us are still inclined to judge a book by its cover. I am ashamed to say that I did just that with a book that was given to me for review. As a lover of political science, historical fiction and any book from which I come away knowing more about the world than I did going in, I am the first to condemn romance novels. Full of over-embellished similes and metaphors and rife with situations that leave me blushing for several hours after completing a chapter, most of the time I would rather read a detailed analysis of the use of the Navier-Stokes equation in practical large scale drainage use than open a Harlequin novel. So it was with heavy judgment and preconceived opinions that I opened the Regency romance novel The Nude by Folly Beach author Dorothy McFalls: and I was pleasantly surprised to find myself completely and utterly wrong. Part of my prejudgment error was in assuming that a Regency romance novel is just another name for a Harlequin romance novel. In fact, if there were a hierarchy of romance novels, Regency would be considered the most elite and least sexual of them all. Typically written with a high degree of intelligent, fast paced dialog, Regency novels are set in the 19th century and are loosely based on the styles of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer. The name “Regency” comes from the British Regency era, when the Prince of Wales (later George IV), ruled at Prince Regent after his father, George III, was deemed unfit for rule. His rule, from approximately 1811 – 1837, was a time of great excess in terms of the arts and culture, as well as flagrant hedonism for the era’s beau monde; the

September 4, 2009

By Kristin Hackler nickname for Britain’s most affluent families. McFalls’ novel opens in London, 1814. A desperate artist applies the finely ground, sparkling dust of sapphires and rubies to a painting he has struggled for several sleepless days and nights to complete. With a final stroke, the artist, known only as Dionysus, passes out, exhausted, at the base of his creation. When the painting is finally revealed, however, its subject has no idea that she has been imagined, prostrate and completely naked, on the artist’s canvas. The scandal rocks the town and Elsbeth Mercer, the hapless victim,

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is determined to uncover the artist’s true identity at all costs. In the meantime, Nigel Purbeck, the sixth Marquess of Edgeware, takes pity on Elsbeth and determines to do what he can to return her good name. Generally regarded as a wealthy recluse, Purbeck opens the doors of his country estate to the beau monde for a week-long party and makes it a point that Elsbeth attends; a social invitation that would never been offered to a woman of loose morals. The invitation, coupled with Purbeck’s constant attentions, is slowly bringing Elsbeth’s reputation out of the gutter when disaster strikes. A killer is on the loose and Purbeck is their target. Although the story starts slowly, the twists and turns become rapid-fire once the guests arrive at the Purbeck country estate. McFalls has certainly done her homework as well, as many of the references to era paints, stonework, architecture, customs, language and political activities are accurately peppered throughout the novel’s 350+ pages. Secret chambers, mysterious lockets, illegal smuggling, vicious killers and yes, even a midnight trist, are all excellent reasons to pick up a copy of McFalls’ novel, The Nude. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll probably even learn something by the end. Dorothy McFalls is a Folly Beach native, living with her sculptor husband and two dogs. At 28 years old, this is her sixth book and she looks forward to penning many more. For more information about McFalls or her books, visit www.dorothymcfalls.com. The Nude is available at amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, as well as your local book stores.

September 4, 2009

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Ready to hit the books

An interview with Charleston Collegiate sixth grader, Kyra Westerberg

he change in the length of days is slight, but noticeable. Driving home in the evening, the bright orange glow of the setting sun is starting to hit a little earlier each day and maybe it’s wishful thinking, but the ghost of a cool breeze seems to seep into the dusk, prophesying to the Lowcountry the arrival of autumn and the beginning of

Kyra Westerberg

the school year. For Kyra Westerberg, the summer couldn’t end soon enough. Most school age children spend their summers playing, either with friends or on the computer/game system, but for Kyra, the school-free hours meant more time to work on her novel; and she’s already up to chapter seven in a notebook filled from front to back with text. “It’s called Earmarks,” said Kyra, describing an elaborately detailed plotline that she’s still ardently developing. A student of Charleston Collegiate, her passions revolve around creative writing and the study of Greek mythology. She quickly recounted her reasons for liking her favorite Greek goddess, Artemis, because, “She won’t marry because it slows her down.” She likes Poseidon since he’s the god of water, and recalled in detail the early myth of thunder being related to the battle of the Greek giant gods, the Titans. When asked what she was looking forward to most about the upcoming school year, she grinned and said “Lockers! Awesomeness.” As for classes, though, she can’t wait to take history and creative writing. Although she’s only eleven and just now entering the sixth grade, don’t be surprised if you see a new novel written by one of America’s youngest authors hitting the shelves in the next couple

of years. In the meantime, Kyra will be working hard at school, absorbing all the information she can so she can pour it back into her writing, and occasionally penning a poem or two to keep her creative mind busy. Droplets By Kyra Westerberg I step outside before the breaking of dawn. I awoke because I heard a soft pitter patter. It was rain. I looked up at the clouds,  gray and heavy as the rain was falling out. It looked as if it were crying, not sad, but happy, as if it was relieved of all its troubles. Then I looked up at the droplets like they were jewels falling down  from heaven above or silver droplings melting into the palms of my hands. I smiled because it was a new day and a new beginning.

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The ease of e-mentoring

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Provided by Frances Boyd

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he e-mentoring pilot project which was conducted last spring at Haut Gap Middle School was very successful and will be expanded this year. The students from the pilot will have the same mentors they had during their eighth grade year, so this year, sixteen more mentors will be needed for this year’s seventh graders.  The program, sponsored by Communities in Schools of Charleston and the staff of Haut Gap Middle School, uses adult mentors from Kiawah, Seabrook and John’s Island.  While face to face meetings are held occasionally, the main requirement of the mentor is to e-mail the mentee at least twice a week using a secure Internet based system known as Gaggle.  This program is ideal for people who may not live on the islands full time but want to volunteer with the community’s young people.  Communities in Schools has a history of finding the volunteers here to be generous with both their time and money. The program at Haut Gap is yet another way to be involved with the children of Johns Island.  Providing middle grade students with an ‘extra’ adult in their lives, who cares about their progress in school and extracurricular activities, can often encourage the young person to excel in school and beyond.  If you are interested in volunteering or finding out further information, contact Courtney Winders with Communities in Schools of Charleston (810-6209) or Frances Boyd, a Kiawah resident coordinating the volunteers. ([email protected])

September 4, 2009

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Gators on the island

Best-Ever Pear Cobbler Provided by Rosebank Farms

(From the September 1982 Southern Living magazine)

photo by Cindy Covert

You never know where you might spot a gator on the islands. Seabrook resident Cindy Covert saw this gator hanging out in one of the storm drains at Live Oak Park. She and her husband, Paul, make it a point to remind people to watch their children and dogs whenever they are walking around on the island, because you never know where you’ll spot one of these living fossils.

Pale deer?

Ingredients: 4 medium pears, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 4 cups) 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 1 c. sugar ½ tsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground nutmeg Dash of salt 1 Tbsp. butter or margarine Cheddar Cheese Pastry (see recipe below) Directions: Arrange pear slices evenly in a 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish; sprinkle with lemon juice.  Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; stir well, and sprinkle over pears.  Dot with butter. Roll pastry to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface; cut into 10 x ½-inch strips.  Arrange in lattice fashion and trim edges as needed.  Bake at 350 degrees for one hour.  6-8 servings Cheddar Cheese Pastry Ingredients: 1 c. all-purpose flour ½ tsp. salt 1/3 c. shortening ¼ c. (1 oz) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese 1 to 3 Tbsp. cold water Directions: Combine flour and salt; cut in shortening with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse meal.  Stir in cheese.  Sprinkle cold water evenly over surface, stirring with a fork until all dry ingredients are moistened.  Shape dough into a ball.   Yield:  pastry for one cobbler.

photo by Paul Covert

Seabrook resident Paul Covert caught this young piebald doe on camera a few weeks ago. According to Kiawah Island Naturalist Jennifer Barbour, “piebald” is a genetic condition which affects about 1% of the deer population, and a small portion of that population currently lives on Seabrook Island. Indications of a piebald dear include stunted leg growth, a curving spine, and a slight downward curve of the nose accompanying the white coloration.

Storm over Seabrook

It’s that time of year when storms are constantly passing over our islands. It’s beautiful to watch, but it’s also a good reminder to make sure that you’re prepared for hurricane season, as we are now entering the busiest month for hurricanes in the south.

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September 4, 2009

Daily Discoveries: Belted Kingfishers By Jennifer Barbour

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“The keenness of their eyes gives them vision to spot the tiniest bit of food, and with alacrity and precision of motion they pick it up … Theirs is a world of instant decisions and quick action.” - Gwen Frostic

he summer sun is beginning to give up its fight, giving way to the cooler days of fall. Kids are going back to school, the marsh grass is beginning to bloom, and family vacations at the beach are now sweet memories. For Naturalists on the islands, a sure sign of the coming fall is the arrival of a spunky bird with a loud call. The Belted Kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon) is a stocky mid-sized bird with a large head, thick bill, and shaggy, Mohawk-like crest. They measure between 11-14 inches in length, and have a wingspan between 19-23 inches. Both male and female have a slate blue head, large white collar, a blue band on the breast and white underneath. The back and wings are also slate blue with black feather tips. Females have a rusty band across the upper belly, making it one of the few bird species in which the female is more brightly colored than the male. A distinctive, long clattering rattle usually precedes a sighting of this fish-eating bird found on sheltered waters. Belted Kingfishers search for prey from a lookout perch on trees or wires and can be seen hovering over the water before plunge-diving headfirst to capture small fish. While fish make up the majority of this bird’s diet, they will also consume aquatic invertebrates, insects, and small

vertebrates. They breed along streams, rivers, lakes, and estuaries across most of Canada, Alaska, and the United States. The nest of the Belted Kingfisher is a long tunnel, 1-8 feet long, excavated by both parents in a riverbank or sand bank. A slight uphill slope provides an air pocket of safety for the chicks in the event of rising waters. The female lays 5-8 eggs and both adults incubate the eggs and feed the young. Belted Kingfisher pairs are territorial, especially during breeding season. As waters freeze in their northern ranges, Belted Kingfishers will migrate to the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, the West Indies, and northern South America. So while you’re out enjoying the Lowcountry’s beautiful fall weather, look up when you hear a long clattering sound overhead, or take a closer look with you notice a distinct Mohawk-ed avian silhouette perched on a cedar snag in the marsh. You may have caught a glimpse of the Belted Kingfisher during his autumn visit to the islands. About the Author: Jennifer is a Naturalist with the Kiawah Island Nature Program. To contact her with comments or personal stories, email her at [email protected]. * Information from Sibley’s & Peterson field guides & Cornell’s Ornithology web site PHOTOS BY Jamie Rood

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September 4, 2009

As IVes sees it

So long, old Island House

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Before the court, again

Final finish and punch list work continue in the new Island House, and it’s looking great! Meanwhile, back at the old Island House, a few pictures tell the whole story.

(part two)

Adios (8/25)

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 by Dwight S. Ives MA, MA, LUTCF

s you may remember from last week’s article, I was issued a ticket for a cracked windshield – an issue which was dismissed by a city court judge in Charleston, only to have it not processed properly by the Clerk of Court for the same judge. This mistake eventually ended up costing me over $1200 in Christmas funds.   Now it was time to appear before the court to prove, yet again, that I had solved this problem over six months prior. To do so, I gathered every shred of evidence: over 50 pages, including out-of-pocket expenses. I provided a typed, bound narrative explaining each document. The information was in a logical, linear time sequence with three copies: one for Judge Koontz, one for Officer Christmas, and one for myself. I arrived early on the designated court date. I wanted a good seat to be able to get in and out quickly. As luck would have it, my case was one of the last to be heard.  But this would prove to be a learning experience. Case after case came before a most tolerant and understanding Judge Koontz.  Almost all were guilty.  She gave all of the defendants who were found guilty as many alternatives as possible. Some of those convicted felt threatened and became arrogant; lashing out against the court as though their error in judgment was the court’s fault.  One young man stormed out of the courtroom, only to be quickly recovered and found in contempt.

Sayonara (8/26)

Adieu (8/27)

Then it was my turn. Both the officer and the judge were floored when I presented the bound argument of my innocence. Over the years, I was trained by teams of excellent supervisors to document, document, document! Grad school reinforced this point. The officer said, “We’ve never seen anything like this before! May we keep a copy?” “Sure!” I replied.  That was my purpose in a nutshell.  I was found not guilty, and I got the slam dunk I wanted. With the court now virtually empty, I requested a refund of my money.  The judge and the officer looked at each other and replied, “That is not this court.”  This is when I faced the harsh reality that I probably would not be getting my $1200 back. I titled my case “Two Christmases with no Thanksgiving”: a result of the time of arrest, the last name of the officer, and the fact that I had to pay out so much money with no apologies from anyone. Next time:  Cash in confinement (part three) Dwight graduated from the National College Republican Fieldman School to become a political instructor/consultant.  Returning from Washington, DC, he earned dual Masters in Business Administration and Management.  He has done PR work for Crystal Gayle, Frank Abagenal of the movie “Catch Me If You Can”, and the “Christmas Show” produced by Brad and Jenifer Moranz.  Dwight works Security at Kiawah Island for KICA.

Sell off your summer clutter PHOTOS BY: Warren Kimball

Legare Farms Education Foundation is offering free spaces for a Multi-Family Yard Sale on Saturday October 3, 2009. The Yard Sale will correspond with the opening day of Legare Farms’ Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze. The Yard Sale will open at 8am and run to 12 noon. The pumpkin patch and corn maze will also open at 8am but hayrides will not start until 11am. Come out and sell your extra stuff, make a few dollars and pick a pumpkin. Legare Farms is located on Hanscombe Point Road off River Road on Johns Island. To reserve your space call Legare Farms at 559-0788 or e-mail [email protected].

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