Island Eye News - December 11, 2009

Since May 2005

Sullivan’s Island

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Isle of Palms

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Goat Island • Dewees Island

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December 11, 2009

FREE

Volume 5 Issue 16

Interpreting Lundeen's work

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By Lori Dalton

harleston has so much to offer that I am constantly amazed with the diversity of opportunities. On Friday, November 20, I attended the Dewees Island Arts Council’s private showing of works by artist John Lundeen. Finnish-American artist John Lundeen works from his studio on the shores of Lake Superior and brought a few of his beautiful pieces to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Huyler, residents of Dewees Island.  Images of the lake act as a backdrop for Lundeen’s metaphorical paintings where boats, fruit, and mathematical formulas all float above the surface of the water in a playful expression of the wonders of nature and the human experience. The image

Tis the Season (above and below) Sullivan's Island Tree Lighting, December 4, 2009.

see Art show on page 4

IOP Tree Lighting, December 3, 2009.

Inside Island Eye

Surf Expo page 4

Recycling contest page 10

Sustainable islands page 15

December 11, 2009

"A People of the Land: Lowcountry Portraits" photography exhibit

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cKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina’s newest traveling exhibition, “A People of the Land: Lowcountry Portraits”, features the work of photodocumentarian and Lowcountry native Vennie Deas Moore . This exhibition has been traveling throughout South Carolina since December 2008 and will be appearing at the Sewee Visitor & Environmental Education Center this December. Moore has devoted much of her career to the exploration of vanishing traditions along the South Carolina coast. Her recent photo-essay of black-and-white photographs documents the fishing, timbering and farming industries of the Lowcountry through the portraiture of those who inhabit the waterways. As a native of McClellanville, Moore presents an “insider’s” unromantic view of places and people seldom seen. Moore’s photographs present the interconnectedness of culture, the value of work, and the symbiotic relationship between the black and white communities. “A People of the Land” has

Bridge Closing party delayed until January Due to the Ben Sawyer Bridge closing being delayed until January, the Bridge Closing Party at Stith Park on Sullivan’s Island hosted by Creative Spark has been postponed until the official closing in January. The Party will be held on the first Sunday of the bridge closing. Look for updates and the rescheduled date for both the party and the official bridge closing in upcoming editions of the Island Eye, as well as online at www.islandeyenews.com.

traveled to other South Carolina libraries and galleries throughout 2009, including the Chapin Memorial Library in Myrtle Beach, the Georgetown County Library and the Charleston County Library. The exhibit is scheduled to be displayed at the

Sewee Visitor & Environmental Education Center from December 2009- February 2010. Plan a visit to Sewee Visitor Center to enjoy this wonderful display. For more Information, please call 928-3368, Tuesday through Saturday, 9am - 5pm.

Tuesday, December 15 Regular Council Meeting 6pm

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]

Lori Dalton Advertising [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Ellie Smith Graphic Intern • Contributors Emily Abedon Anne Anderson Jules Anderson David Farrow Dimi Matouchev National Park Service Diane Oltorik Seewee Visitors Center Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS

Letter to the Editor... Dear Editor, I just read in The Island Eye that Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ will soon be hosting the first annual Bert’s Bar Reunion at its newly-remodeled site in the old Bert’s Bar building. No doubt the owners mean well, but I do not think they realize how sad, sensitive, and controversial the closing of Bert’s was. Many of us who frequented Berts miss those good ol’ days. Bert’s Bar is a special, unforgettable memory that should rest in peace. The Dodgers don’t play in Brooklyn anymore.   Hal Coste Sullivan’s Island

Recycle - Wednesday, December 16 - Recycle

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

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

Ali Akhyari Assistant Editor [email protected]

Civic Calendar

Isle of Palms 886-6428 www.iop.net ______________________

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1610 Middle Street

Wednesday, December 16 DRB MEETING 6pm 1610 Middle Street Thursday, December 10 Board of Zoning Appeals 7pm 1610 Middle Street

City offices for both islands will be CLOSED for the Holidays December 24 & 25 & January 1

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Submit your letters to the editor to: [email protected] Future deadlines: December 2 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. Op-ed articles do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Lucky Dog News, or its writers. All advertising rates are listed at: www.islandeyenews.com under “advertising”.

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2009 Joe Hiller Longboard Classic and Fall Surf Expo

n Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, the Isle of Palms was host to a tidal wave of longboard and stand up paddle (SUP) surfers competing in the popular Joe Hiller Longboard Classic and Fall Surf Expo. Named for Joseph Hiller, former owner of Liquid Motion in the Mount Pleasant Towne Center, the tournament began as a fundraiser by the Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) to help pay for Hiller’s medical expenses as he fought bravely against a brain tumor. After his passing in 2006, the competition continued as a celebration in his memory. Proceeds from the competition have traditionally gone to local charity organizations, and this year was no different, with proceeds benefiting Surfer’s Healing, a program which helps children with autism by exposing them to the unique experience of surfing. Participants attended a party at the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms the night before the competition, enjoying

complimentary Kona beer and a preview of the Surfer Poll Movie of the Year, Still Filthy. Winners of this year’s competition included 2009 ESA East Coast Masters Longboarding Champion Kai Dilling, who won the Masters Longboard Division, Legends SUP and the SUP  race, while local legend Glenn Tanner took both the Open and Vintage

Longboard Divisions. Pete Kohn, longtime friend of Joe Hiller’s, edged out Tanner in the Legends Longboard Divisions.  Rick Anson scored the framed and autographed Endless Summer poster donated by Robert August and the Folly Beach Red Dot Store, but in a gesture of good will, Anson donated the poster back to the ESA with the promise that it will

Art show from cover of water and sky provide a base from which one can depart into a visual world where anything is possible. ”It is my hope that each viewer will construct their own vision and interpretation of my work rather than rely on my explanation,” says Lundeen. Lundeen’s work is a perfect tie-in to life on Dewees Island. Tucked away at the ocean’s edge just north of Charleston, Dewees Island is a residential community designed to live in harmony with its natural surroundings. Life on Dewees heightens your appreciation

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December 11, 2009

be displayed in their future Folly Beach Surfing headquarters.   Dave Mello won the flex deck skateboard donated by Parrot Surf Shop, which certainly took the sting out of Dave’s stand up paddleboard getting impaled on the Isle of Palms Pier during the SUP race.   A memorable incident during this year’s surf competition was a rough wipeout by surfer Katherine Lundy, who suffered from a compressed vertebra, torn rotator cuff and two missing teeth. However, Katherine came straight from the emergency room to the after party at Seel’s Fish Camp on Sullivan’s Island wearing a neck brace and a toothless smile. Thanks from the ESA go to Robert August for the wine tasting at Seel’s, Kona Brewery for their awesome support, and Charleston Watersport Outfitters surf shop in Mount Pleasant for their sponsorship of this year’s competition, providing both long sleeved t-shirts for all competitors and hundreds of dollars in gift cards for the winners. for the beauty and value of the natural environment. The only transportation is by golf cart and I had the pleasure of riding alongside Jim Anderson, longtime resident, as he transported me to the Huyler’s home and told stories of life on Dewees. Relaxed. Beautiful. Natural. Inspiring. Lundeen’s work was an inspiration to all that attended, and the entire evening was a wonderful experience I will not soon forget. For more information on the Dewees Island Art Council, or artist John Lundeen, visit www. deweesisland.com.

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Cabinets & countertops for new construction and renovations

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December 11, 2009

Reflecting on the year as it comes to an end

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ratitude and celebration” is always a perfect pairing, and one which, I have noticed, is a shared theme among islanders as we look back on this year. Although every family’s Reasonsfor-Thanks list has unique items, it is noteworthy how much we have in common. Back to the Basics “How are you?” I asked a neighbor last week as I pulled up outside of Cafe Medley. An earnest, wide grin preceded his answer:  “I woke up another day - right here.” As simple as his words were, the tone suggested more than a noting of the recent stretch of lovely weather or the unique, natural paradise by which we are blessed to be surrounded. Rather, his response made an understated reference to the losses which so many of us have endured over the past few years, and to the kindnesses within our barrier-island community that serve as salve to our wounds.  I parked my bike beneath the cloudless sky and scrambled up the Charleston-green steps towards my favorite Medley chai tea in those mega-big mugs. Inside, a group of guys was boisterously lauding the joys of real butter.  I was so happy that the comfy

by Emily Perlman Abedon

corner seat was free and when the crowd at the counter cleared, the discussion of decadently delicious foods continued as cafe proprietors, Michelle and Drew, schooled me in the stellar delight of Chocolate Beer Ice Cream Floats.  It took a minute for my brain to get around this concept. I set the words out one by one in my mind like this: Chocolate.  Beer.  Ice Cream.  Float.  And I floated away on that for a cafe minute.  After Michelle blessed me with the news that they are selling take-andbake pasta dinners at Medley now  (which I served to a bevy of house guests over Thanksgiving weekend after dolloping it into a pretty bowl so it looked like I made it myself (don’t tell!)), we continued to chat about things that are good.  Eventually we made it past the topic of edible items, and sailed into the heart of the matter.  Superstars surround us  “The people here are amazing,”

said Drew, eliciting hearty nods of agreement from Michelle and I. We shared our notes, for a few a minutes, on locals who deserve blue ribbons for benevolence; then it was time for me to head on home. It made my heart soar to know that within the beam of our storied and quirkycool lighthouse - from the perspective of a couple who hear the talking points which percolate over coffee and wine sit downs – that the current state of the human spirit flows like liquid gold.  Pedalling away, I reflected on the many moments over 2009 in which I have been fortunate to witness or hear about acts of kindness, thoughtful caring, and unacclaimed heroism that are breathtaking to me.  First to mind came the warm night when many of us gathered in our friend’s front yard and received the gift of hearing him speak about his extraordinary daughter, who had touched so many lives and passed away too young. There, beneath the spread of a live oak’s branches, all differences disappeared for a moment. Our

crowd became family, connected by a form of love that had been condensed, purified, and parceled out - selflessly and in droves.  Sympathy and empathy become one at a time like that because the fact is, over a lifetime few of us escape the inevitability of unimaginable hardships or unspeakable losses. The experience, to me, feels tied to another that occurred on the island last year: the afternoon of Carl “Tucker” Dodson’s funeral, with full military honors, which was deeply moving, inspiring, and meaningful. That winter day, though as sad as can be, also contained the dual gift of celebration and gratitude, enabling those of us who knew, respected, and loved the man and his family to share in an occasion of profound appreciation for the meaning of sacrifice, bravery, liberty, and legacy.    I would like to wish "Happy Holidays" and offer an expression of sincerest thanks to all of our neighbors who are veterans of tough wars or tough times, and particularly to our armedservices men and women and their families, for all that they do to ensure that we may all have the freedom to gather with our loved ones, safely, and simply rejoice, with gratitude.

Victories great and small Brian Duffy, IOP Councilman, is pictured above on his way to completing his 10th Marine Corps Marathon on October 25, 2009, in Washington DC. While completing a marathon is an accomplishment in itself, Duffy was truly happy to finish this, his first marathon since sustaining a back injury three years ago.

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Fort Moultrie bicentennial birthday

n Saturday, December 19, Fort Moultrie will present Sol­diers through Time, a living history event from 10am to 4pm. Park rangers and re-en­actors will portray soldiers of the major time periods of Fort Moultrie’s history from the Revolution­ary War through World War II. Visitors will be able to see the changes that took place in the uni­forms, weapons, and related items carried and used by

December 11, 2009

Provided by the National Park Service

soldiers from 1776 to 1945, with formal presentations at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. At the 1pm program, Lieutenant Colonel Jason A. Kirk, Commander of the Charleston District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will make a brief historical presentation. All activities and programs will take place inside Fort Moultrie and are free. December 19, 2009, marks the official bicentennial of the Fort Moultrie one sees today. On that

day in 1809, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed the fort’s construction and two companies of the Third U.S. Infantry Regiment served as its first garrison. There have been three forts on this site since 1776. The first Fort Moultrie, built of palmetto logs and sand, is the location of the first major Patriot victory of the American Revolution on June 28, 1776. Abandoned after the war, this fort was replaced by a second

Fort Moultrie in 1798, but was destroyed by an 1804 hurricane. The current Fort Moultrie was completed in 1809 and was not closed by the US Army until 1947. Fort Moultrie is a unit of Fort Sumter National Monument and is located at 1214 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. For more info call 883-3123 or visit www.nps. gov/fosu.

Gilford gets recycling

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Re-enactors dress in uniforms of the major time periods of Fort Moultrie's history. The Soldiers Through Time event will be held at Fort Moultrie on December 19.

harleston County’s Environmental Management Department recently held the 2009 Creative Recycling Art Contest to celebrate America Recycles Day 2009. The contest was a success for Charleston County. A total of 68 adults and students entered the contest, which required artwork to be made using only recyclables and discarded material. Gayle Gilford, a resident of the Isle of Palms, placed first in the adult category for her “Clock” sculpture, which was made from computer parts, CDs, toys, lipstick, pens, markers, light bulbs, keys, wires, turkey timer, broken jewelry, pop tops and discarded party decorations. Gilford won a $150 gift certificate from Lowe’s and a $150 gift certificate from Artist & Craftsman Supply. Second place winner was Austin Abt of Charleston for her “Avian Construct”, and Sandra Dumas of Summerville placed third with her “Recycled Weaving” piece.  The contest showed that one person’s trash can be another person’s art,  with entries demonstrating how  cardboard, ink cartridges, bottle caps, plastic bottles, newsprint  and other “trash” can be made into one-ofa-kind, creative art pieces. America Recycles Day is celebrated year-round and culminates every Nov. 15 to remind citizens that recycling is working, and the important part each of us plays in its ongoing success. The nationwide celebration is designed to encourage people to recycle and buy products made from recycled materials.  For more information on America Recycles Day, visit www.americarecyclesday.org.

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First place in the adult category.

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Friday, December 11

advance reservations by calling 849-2061. Tickets:  $2/person. Isle of Palms Light It Up Contest   Contact Tina Carter at 849-2061 Nominate houses and or visit www.townofmountpleasant. businesses that “light up” the Isle com. of Palms with holiday spirit by calling the Recreation Center at 886-8294.  Judging will take place at 5:30pm on Thursday, December First Day of Hanukkah 17.  Winners will receive awards.    Pat Conroy book signing 1pm to 3:30pm at Blue Bicycle “Santa’s Christmas Party” Books. The famed Southern author Presented by the Columbia will be signing copies of his latest Marionette Theatre 10am at the novel, South of Broad. There is no G.M. Darby Building, Mount charge to attend. For info, go to Pleasant.  Come enjoy the fun in www.bluebicyclebooks.com or call this brand new show with Santa, 722-2666. Jack Frost, an ice skater and

Saturday, December 12

Frosty the Snowman.  Please make

Christmas at the Sottile The Charleston Men’s Chorus will present Christmas at the Sottile, a concert filled with joyful and sacred holiday music as only the Charleston Men’s Chorus can sing it. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St. at 3pm. Admission is $15/adults; $10/ seniors; Free/children under 6. Tickets at Monster Music & Movies (West Ashley) and Royall Hardware (Mt. Pleasant). For more info, call 720-8505 or visit www.cmchorus. com.   Page’s Thieves Crafters Market Every Saturday at Page’s Thieves from 9am – 2pm. Items for sale include locally made art, photography, floral, scents, jewelry and more. For more info, call 884-9672 or visit www. pagesthievesmarket.net. 1460 Ben Sawyer Blvd. Mount Pleasant. A trail in the forest Meet at Sewee Visitor Center at 9am for a guided walk along a trail in the Francis Marion National Forest. Plan for about an hour walk on a maintained Forest trail. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, bring drinking water and insect repellant. call to register: 928-3368. Barrier island adventure with Coastal Expeditions Join Coastal Expeditions from 10am – 3pm for a guided walk on Bull Island, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. The walk begins on Bull Island, where we begin to discover the maritime forest.  For more info and to register, Call Coastal at 884-7684 or visit www. coastalexpeditions.

December 11, 2009

I s l a nd E y December 11 Shake off a Blue, Blue Christmas Michael Viljac and the Elvis Tribute Band will perform your favorite holiday songs as performed by the King of Rock and Roll himself at the Glenn L. Jeffers VFW, located at 1411 Stuart Engals Blvd. in Mount Pleasant. If you haven’t seen Michael Viljac performing as Elvis the King, you are missing a fantastic performance. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased by calling 3459084. Great Outdoor Gear Sale Come out to James Island County Park 9am to 12pm for your chance to get great deals on great gear.  We’re selling some of the tents, kayaks, mountain bikes, camping accessories, and more that we’ve used.  For more info, call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com Charleston Ballet presents: The Nutcracker December 12 & 13 Gaillard Auditorium, and December 19 at the N. Chas. Performing Arts Center. Set in the streets of downtown Charleston circa 1865, the ballet has teamed with the dance programs and children of the Dorchester 2 school district for this massive holiday production. This treasured classic is the perfect remedy for the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Tickets may be at 7237334 or at the CBT Box Office at 477 King Street.

Try our new 7 days a www.islandeyenews.com

December 11, 2009

y e Cale ndar - December 18 Sunday, December 13 Gemenids meteor shower One of the most visible meteor showers of the year, the meteors should become visible between 9 and 10pm, peaking at 2am on December 14 with as many as 50 meteors per hour. Charlton Singleton Trio presents Christmas Jazz Vespers Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St. at 6pm. For more info, call 577-6400, email [email protected].  Mount Pleasant Holiday Parade 5:45pm – 7:15pm from the corner of Coleman and Pelzer Drive to the Sea Island Shopping Center. Support the Scouts Food Float Support local Cub Scouts Packs 470, 519 and 59 by donating your canned goods to fill the Scouts Food Float during the Mount Pleasant Holiday Parade. The parade will begin at 5:45pm at the intersection of Coleman and Pelzer Drive. It will continue past Shem Creek to conclude at the Sea Island Shopping Center around 7:15pm. Blue Christmas Service – IOP Methodist Church At 4pm in support for those who have experienced a loss during the past year. Special music, words of comfort, and memorial candles will be lit in memory of each individual. The First United Methodist Church is located at 21st Avenue at Palm Blvd, for more info, call 886-6610 or check our website at www. iopmethodist.com. The 14th Annual Town of Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade At 5:45pm, Join Town dignitaries for an exciting fireworks display sure to rocket viewers into the holiday spirit.  Following the fireworks will be the 14th Annual Christmas Light Parade.  This lighted

nighttime parade will begin at Shem Creek and end at Sea Island Shopping Center on Coleman Boulevard.  Free event. Contact Su McManus-Frost at 884-8517 or visit www. townofmountpleasant.com.

Monday, December 14 Bulls Island archery-only deer hunt The harvest of surplus animals is one tool used to manage wildlife populations. Refuge hunting permits are required. For more info, visit www.fws.gov/ caperomain, or call 928-3368. December 14 – 19, 2009.

Tuesday, December 15

Friday, December 18 Friday Night Hoops From 6 – 8pm at the Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 Twentyeighth Avenue. For more info, call 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net. 1st Annual Home Team Christmas Party and Bert’s Bar Reunion  December 18 and 19, enjoy live music, drink and food specials at Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ on Sullivan’s Island. Music begins at 4pm with a surprise artist appearing both nights at 10:30pm. Specials include fried flounder and shrimp, half priced wings, $1.50 Pabst Blue Ribbon, and much

Santa’s Cookie Workshop Santa wants a plate of cookies under the tree!  Decorate them at Santa’s Cookie Workshop from 4-6pm at the Isle of Palms Recreation Center.  All materials are provided for this free event, but space is limited so participants must pre-register by calling 8868294.

Wednesday, December 16 East Cooper Dementia Caregiver Education and Support Group This week, the support group will be a regular session where caregivers gather to give and receive support regarding the challenges they face, as well as the rewards they receive, while providing care for their loved one. From 9:30 - 10:30am at All Saints Lutheran Church, 2107 Hwy. 17 North, Mount Pleasant.  For more information, please contact Ginger at 810-5576.

Thursday, December 17 Open Jam sessions at Seel’s on Sullivan’s Bring your acoustic instruments and your talent for the first open jam session at Seel’s Off the Hook on Sullivan’s Island. Jam sessions will be held weekly. All levels welcome and encouraged! Hosted by The Good Tenants, brother/ sister Jason & Marci Shore, and Captain John Irwin of Fly Right Charters. 7pm – until. For more info, call 883-5030.

Free appetizer with dinner Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer.

w "Island Time" menu week from 3-7pm

883-5030

2213-B Middle St, www.seelsfishcamp.com www.islandeyenews.com

13 more. For more info, visit www. hometeambbq.com or call 883-3131.   Christmas Cocktails: A Musical Revue A holiday musical benefit sponsored by Sprinkles Entertainment, with partial proceeds to benefit the Low Country’s Children With Aids. Dates: December 18 & 19 at 8pm, and Sunday, December 20 at 5pm. Tickets are $20/adults and $15/seniors/children. Broadway Performing Arts Black Box Theatre, located at 607-A Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant.

December 11, 2009

IOPNA thanks 2009 contributors

What sustains an island? By Anne Anderson

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ustainability” was a watchword for Dewees Island long before most developing barrier islands realized the need for sustainable development.  On this quiet island, an innovative lifestyle is being lived out every day: a community built within a nature preserve.  Respect for and enjoyment of all life is the guiding philosophy of Dewees, where the residents strive to live in harmony with nature and with each other. Throughout the years, the Dewees community has consciously worked to create an environmentally responsible habitat.   A holistic approach is evident from the first planning stages of home construction to the most recent island-wide eradication of invasive Chinese Tallow trees, to established policies protecting habitats of all native species of plants and animals. Dewees residents practice a “harvest only what you can eat for one meal” sea food guideline and contribute to the support of a full time naturalist for the island’s on-going education program, as well as housing for turtle interns. On November 6, the Dewees Island community recognized several of the public agencies and non-profit corporations that have been invaluable environmental resources for the island. Organizations included: • South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) • College of Charleston • US Fish and Wildlife (FWS) • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA ) • The Audubon Society

• The Nature Conservancy (TNC) • Representatives from other barrier island communities with whom we share a common coast line and common challenges.   The event began with a 10am Aggie Gray ferry ride to the island.  At the Landings Dock on Dewees, our guests were met by homeowners and Dewees staff, outfitted with golf carts, and directed toward the activity of their choice.  Tours began at the Nature Center for a brief orientation and the chance to enjoy wildlife exhibits and artifacts from the island. Guests were then given the choice between an island eco-tour by the Environmental Programs Board, a history tour with the Archives Committee or an exploration of the island on their own.  We were fortunate with the weather - a beautiful, mild 68 degree day - and the guests were afforded some fantastic bird sightings.  A light lunch and a cup of warm apple cider completed the day as the visitors hurried to catch the return ferry home through the beautiful surrounding marsh. It was our goal to share our belief in the importance of an enviroconscious existence, and to allow our guests to observe the beauty of our natural resources, as well as understand our conservation, preservation, education and restoration efforts.  The exchange of ideas was enlightening, and many of the guests’ suggestions may be very helpful in future planning. Thus we found relationships strengthened and extended our hands to a widening circle of environmental partners.

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 By Diane Oltorik

he Isle of Palms Neighborhood Association (IOPNA) wishes to acknowledge the restaurants and businesses that have contributed throughout 2009  to the Gift Bag Program, a new resident welcoming project begun by the IOPNA more than a year ago to introduce the newest Isle of Palms residents to the many wonderful features, businesses and amenities of the island.  Thanks to all the Isle of Palms businesses that have helped make this program a success. We look forward to continuing this partnership in 2010.  The Gift Bag Program is designed to encourage residents to support our island businesses so they will thrive all year long.  

Following are our contributors for 2009: Restaurants: Huck’s Lowcountry Table (1130 Ocean Blvd, 886-6772) Banana  Cabana (1130 Ocean Blvd, 886-4361) Coconut Joe’s (1120 Ocean Blvd, 886-0046) The Windjammer (1008 Ocean Blvd, 886-8596) Barefoot Bistro (1101 Ocean Blvd, 886-4445) Long Island Café (1515 Palm Blvd. # A, 886-8809) Taste of China (1400 Palm Blvd # B, 886-4363) Morgan Creek Grill (80 41st Ave, 886-8980) Budiroe’s (1528 Ben Sawyer

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Blvd. Mount Pleasant, 388-5270) The Boathouse at Breach Inlet (101 Palm Blvd, 886-8000) Acme Cantina (31 J C Long Blvd, 886-0024) Hudson’s Market in Wild Dunes (5757 Palm Boulevard, 778-1876) The Lettered Olive in Wild Dunes (5802 Palm Boulevard, 886-7306 Retailers:  Red & White Supermarket (1513 Palm Blvd., 886-6250) Pelican Cleaners (1521 Palm Blvd., 886-4200) Sailfish Vacation Supply (1679 Lauda Drive, Mount Pleasant, 743-8901) Salon & Company Hair (1400-F Palm Blvd., 886-3800) Splash Clothing (1012 Ocean Blvd, 886-9253) Primetime Fitness (2120 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, 883-0101) Oli-NahKiteSurfandPaddleboard (1204 Palm Blvd., 886-3337) Island Time Beach Shop (1011 Ocean Blvd, 886-8776) Beach House Spa (1030 Carolina Blvd., 886-8883) Island Roots Landscaping (6095781) ReStore at ECCO (1145 Six Mile Rd., 849-9220) As chairperson for this program, I speak for all those who worked to make this program a success when I wish our contributors Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Financial

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December 11, 2009

Your year-end investment checklist

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e’ve pretty much seen it all this year: a bear market, a long rally and even a period of “neither up nor down”. But even though we have only a few weeks left of 2009, you still have time to make some moves that can pay off for you in 2010 and beyond. Here are a few suggestions to consider: •

“Max out” on your IRA and make regular contributions next year. For the 2009 tax year, you can contribute up to $5,000 to a traditional or Roth IRA, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older. And you have until April 15, 2010, to fully fund your 2009 IRA. Of course, it’s not always easy to come up with a lump sum, but do whatever you can to make up for any shortfalls in your IRA for 2009. In 2010, consider setting up automatic monthly contributions to your IRA — it’s a much more efficient way to maximize a great retirement savings vehicle.

• Increase your 401(k) contributions. If your employer permits it, try to

By Dimi Matouchev

add more money to your 401(k) or other retirement plan before the year ends. By increasing your 401(k) contributions, you can lower your adjusted taxable income while you potentially build more resources for retirement. • Convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Depending on your individual situation, a Roth IRA, which offers the potential for tax-free growth provided you meet certain conditions, may be a better choice for you than a traditional IRA, which offers the potential for growth on a tax-deferred basis. Consequently, if you meet eligibility limits, you may want to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. However, this conversion is likely going to be a “taxable event”, so you’ll need to have money available outside your IRA for the tax bill. You’ll want to discuss this move with your tax advisor.

portfolio balance and long term goals, you may want to sell some investments that have lost value to take the tax losses. If these losses exceed your capital gains from selling appreciated stocks, you can deduct up to $3,000 (or $1,500 for married couples filing separately) against your other income, reducing the amount on which you must pay taxes. And if you lost more than $3,000, you can carry over the excess into subsequent years. Consult with a tax advisor before selling investments to claim a tax loss. • Consolidate your investment accounts. • Instead of having an IRA with one firm, investments with another firm and a cash-value insurance policy with a third, you might want to consolidate your assets with one provider. That

• Sell your “losers”. If it’s appropriate for your

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way, you’ll be better able to align all your assets with a central, unified investment strategy. • Review your insurance coverage. Over the course of a year, you could experience significant changes in your life: marriage or divorce, the birth of a child or the departure of an older child from your home, the start of a new job or retirement, and so on. That’s why you’ll want to make sure you have the right amount and type of insurance to protect your family and your financial future. By making these moves, you can close out 2009 on a positive note while positioning yourself for progress on your longterm goals. This article was provided by Edward Jones, located at 1505 Palm Blvd on the Isle of Palms. You can reach them at 886-9229 or visit www.edwardjones.com.

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December 11, 2009

A green-eyed monster

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he burrfish, or spiny Boxfish (Chilomycterus schoepfi) ,is a member of the porcupine fish family Diodontidae. Although it is often mistaken for a puffer fish, the burrfish is shorter than an average puffer fish and is rounder in appearance, with immovable spines covering its body. The burrfish can inflate its body by taking in either air or water, but it’s not poisonous, like the puffer fish. Burrfish can be found all along the Atlantic coast, from the West Indies to Cape Cod, and are regularly found in the summer Jacob Cahalan, 2, caught this striped and fall in the vicinity of New burrfish off the Daniel Island pier on a York. foggy day last week. PHOTOS BY Jerry Cahalan

Eye Spy

Do you know what this is?

Kids, send your guess for this week’s Eye Spy to: [email protected] or call 886-NEWS. Please include your mailing address with your submission. The first one to send in the correct answer will receive a coupon for a free ice cream at Café Medley on Sullivan's Island. No one guessed last week's Eye Spy it was the firefighter's training ground on Sullivan's Island . Send your guess for this week's Eye Spy to: [email protected]. www.islandeyenews.com

December 11, 2009

Do You Know Your Charleston

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The next boat to District 45 By David Farrow

For years, I have been ranting about the changes in Charleston. The area has grown like Topsy. The municipalities and county have been trumpeting “green jobs”. What an absolute load of palaver. We are talking about a group of people who closed down the incinerator for the sake of reducing our “carbon footprint”. Okay, fine. So what do we do with the trash? Oh, that’s right. You haven’t a clue. Boeing is coming… Jobs, jobs, jobs. Green jobs? Well, maybe not. A single Boeing 787 generates an annual carbon footprint of 7.6m tons. Well, at least the stimulus is working. Go to Recovery.gov and you find that the 45th congressional district of South Carolina, alone, saved 16 jobs with $1,070,000 in federal stimulus funds. Wow! That’s one of my favorite parts of the state! I savor the memories of lolling in a Pawley’s Island hammock while the tidal creek jumped with shrimp and pelicans wafted above the pristine salt marsh. The district is also known for its high paying jobs. Those sixteen people alone make $66,685 a year. Whew, dodged a bullet there. I was thinking of moving when I realized, “Wait! District 45 doesn’t exist.”

It should not surprise you that I think cap and trade is malarkey as well. That doesn’t mean that I don’t think we shouldn’t be good stewards of the earth. Do you not find it ironic that the very group which pats its head publically about the creation of green jobs is encouraging developers, headed by friends

of the Charleston administration, to build a small city surrounding a 2,000 year old oak tree on Johns Island? Probably the best quote I have heard about the Boeing plant was from my mother, Emily Ravenel Farrow. She is 94 and cogent of her surroundings, but she doesn’t spend a lot of time watching the news. When I told her that Boeing was going to build a plant, her head whipped up. “Where?” she snapped. “North Charleston by the airport.” She was visibly relieved. “Well, as long as they don’t build it in Charleston.” She would be what we call a “been ya”. Although I harp about the changes round these parts, you might be surprised to learn that no one called me to ask if it was all right. No one questioned me on my opinion on any of this… not one bit. Well, I’ll just use the free broadband we were promised five years ago to contact the “powers-that-be”. Darn it, that didn’t happen either. Hmmm… I wonder when the next boat leaves for District 45. Read more by David Farrow at davidfarrow. wordpress.com

David Farrow, Charlestonian.

There are options outside of the Pool

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ith enormous population growth and ever more expensive coastal-area homes, it is simply not possible for a single insurer to collect enough premiums to cover all possible property loss. In 2008, Hurricane Ike cost Texas insurers more than they had collected in premiums in the previous 38 years. To get the highest solvency ratings from agencies like Standard & Poor, companies must be able to cover losses from two once-in-a-hundred-year storms in a row. Sometimes, even with the widest possible pool, insurers can’t do this. They are “overexposed” and have to greatly increase rates or retreat from coastal areas. In 2007, the South Carolina General Assembly passed the Omnibus Coastal Property Insurance Reform Act. As

By Jules Anderson

one part of that act, the state expanded the areas that could be covered by the SC Wind and Hail Underwriting Association. Commonly known as the Wind Pool, this independent association was created by the state in 1971 to serve as the insurer of last resort for homeowners and businesses in a narrow coastal zone. The 2007 expansion also allowed companies to write other types of property and casualty independent of wind coverage in the expanded area. These provisions have proved worthwhile as at least 13 additional insurance companies now cover coastal South Carolina. Recently, I have heard some outrageously misinformed and exaggerated statements about the impact of the Wind Pool, such as: “The Wind Pool area is purely arbitrary and politically inspired.

The Wind Pool has caused rate hikes in surrounding areas. I have to use the Wind Pool coverage because my insurance company won’t cover me anymore.” None of the above is true. Here’s what’s true: you have options. Don’t get me wrong. If, for some reason, you really do have to avail yourself of Wind Pool coverage, South Carolina has the best managed Wind Pool in the United States, but there are numerous insurers who are not

over-extended in coastal areas that can provide the total property insurance package for you. So, shop around. You don’t have to call me. There are lots of good insurance agents to help you with your homework. Just don’t sit in the Pool complaining. Do something! Jules Anderson is president of Anderson Insurance Associates and chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of South Carolina (IIABSC).

Jules Anderson, president of Anderson Insurance Associates.

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December 11, 2009

Police Blotter The following police reports were provided by the Sullivan’s Island Police Department for the month of October: October 2, 2009: A moped was observed disregarding a stop sign. The officer attempted to stop the moped and the driver began to try to evade the officer. The driver proceeded into Mount Pleasant and then dropped the moped and fled on foot. The subject was arrested and lodged in Charleston County jail for multiple traffic offences and drug offences. October 2, 2009: A complainant came into the police station and reported that someone had damaged a water connection to a well on a vacant lot her family owns. October 3, 2009: A vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. While conducting the stop, the officer smelled burnt marijuana. When the subject was questioned about the marijuana, the subject handed the officer a marijuana pipe with marijuana, still warm to the touch. The subject was arrested and lodged in the Charleston County jail. October 11, 2009: A subject went into the Kangaroo Station

cursing and yelling at the clerk. The subject had parked his vehicle in a way which blocked the previous on-duty clerk and left the area. The vehicle was towed and when he returned he became irate. The subject had left when officers arrived. October 12, 2009: A complainant reported that someone had pried a door leading into the residence. Nothing was reported stolen. October 12, 2009: A complainant reported that she was missing jewelry. The jewelry was last seen in July. October 12, 2009: Officers responded to a residence to assist with a medical situation in which the person was transported to the hospital. October 15, 2009: An officer checked an illegally parked vehicle, and the vehicle registration revealed that the vehicle had been stolen from the Isle of Palms. October 16, 2009: Officers assisted the Fire Department with a house fire and stayed on scene until the cause was determined.

October 17, 2009: While in the business district, an officer observed a disturbance at Off the Hook. A subject had assaulted a female and thrown her to the ground. The officer responded and learned that the two had a disagreement, which resulted in the physical altercation. October 23, 2009: An Isle of Palms officer conducted a traffic stop. In the stop, he learned that the driver had been assaulted at a residence on Sullivan’s Island by her boyfriend. Sullivan’s Island officers conducted an investigation into the incident and advised the female of her legal rights in the incident. She wishes to think about her options. October 24, 2009: A patron and a staff member of Off the Hook were involved in a physical altercation. An officer approached and attempted to separate the two and, in doing so, the officer was thrown to the ground, injuring his arms. October 24, 2009: A motorcycle was stopped for a traffic violation, and while conducting the stop it was learned that there were several violations including registration and permit restriction violations. The motorcycle was towed and the

driver was cited and released. October 25, 2009: Officers responded to a domestic dispute. On arrival they found the female trying to leave in her vehicle. The female was intoxicated and uncooperative. The officers also learned that the female had broken out a window and cut herself. She was offered medical treatment, which she refused. Because of her intoxication, she was arrested and lodged in the Charleston County jail. October 26, 2009: Officers received a report of a subject passed out in a vehicle in the parking lot of the Kangaroo. In checking the subject, it was learned that the subject had an outstanding warrant through the Charleston County Sheriff Office. A deputy responded to the location and arrested the subject. October 26, 2009: A vehicle was stopped and cited for traveling 30mph above the speed limit on Jasper Blvd. October 28, 2009: A complainant reported that someone removed her medication from her purse while she was working at Sullivan’s Restaurant. October 28, 2009: A complainant reported that, while she was parked at the elementary school, someone entered her unlocked vehicle and removed several items. October 30, 2009: A vehicle was stopped for speeding and in conducting the stop it was learned that the driver’s license was suspended. The driver was cited and the vehicle was released to a legal driver. October 31, 2009: While on patrol, an officer located a juvenile on the ground with some blood on his face. In checking, it was learned that the subject had been in an altercation with his juvenile brother. The juvenile was given medical attention.

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