Island Eye News - September 4, 2009

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Isle of Palms

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Sullivan’s Island

September 04, 2009

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Civic

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September 4, 2009

Isle of Palms City Council – August 25, 2009

Citizen’s comments The meeting opened with a presentation by Bill Huggins of the Municipal Association of South Carolina, who presented Council with the Municipal Achievement award for Communications in respect to the City’s monthly electronic newsletter. The award was originally presented to the City during the MASC 69th annual meeting on August 8. The Association applauded the City’s increase in subscribers from 101 to 1,543 in just over a year, as well as the newsletter’s innovation and creativity. “It’s an economic and environmentally friendly approach to sharing information,” said Huggins. photo BY The Municipal Association of SC

Mayor Cronin and City Administrator Linda Lovvorn Tucker accept the Municipal Achievement Award for Communications on August 8.

“This was an inspired initiative,” said Mayor Cronin as he accepted the award. “It was inspired by our citizens and our employees who worked on this and who pushed it forward.” The second speaker, resident Debra Johnson, congratulated the City on their award and asked that the City approve the placement of sand fencing around the Grand Pavilion. “I feel this area is extremely fragile,” said Johnson. “You could tell when [hurricane] Bill passed 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.

by and the tide came up almost to the boardwalk.” Resident Neil Cochran also asked that the sand fencing be approved, but suggested that it be placed further down, near the end of the renourishment area. “Between the Grand Pavilion and Beachwood East, the beach looks like the white sands of New Mexico,” said Cochran. “It’s flat with no fencing to gather the sand and no vegetation.” The fourth speaker, resident Jeff Jacobs, began by stating that, “I’m here to talk about the signage for rentals. The current signage has eight point type and we all agree that it was almost illegible and not conducive to reading.” The overall concept was so that renters and residents could maximize their enjoyment of the island while living in close proximity. He described the two signs, pointing out that one was designed to be posted on the refrigerator, while the other is bright green and designed to be posted on the doors leading out to the home’s porches. “You can see the improved visibility and readability. It was developed cooperatively with rental agents Sandy Stone and Karen McFadden, suggestions from residents, Council members Bergwerf, Bettelli, Loftus, Taylor, Douglas Kerr and Emily Dzuban. They were all encouraged to participate in it’s development.” He pointed out that not everyone was happy with the end result, but, as he has come to learn, you can’t make everyone happy. The font is larger, more readable and can be changed later if needed. He also noted that three of the largest rental agents have agreed to post the sign voluntarily. The signs are available online so they can be accessed 24/7 without cost to the City. The link to the new signs is www.tinyurl.com/ iopsigns. Jacobs also thanked Carol Rice for her suggestion of adding the line, which he admittedly paraphrased, “Wel-

come to the Isle of Palms, we want you to enjoy your stay. Return often.” He would like to add it, he said, but the sign had already been mailed out. He asked that the quantity and content of the signs be made mandatory through an ordinance and standardized across the islands. “I had the great privilege of working with Jeff Jacobs on signage recently,” said resident Sandy Stone when it was his turn to speak before Council. “Our goal was to standardize the signs, standardize a location and to have a clear and concise sign.” However, he felt that the sign was a little wordy and not exactly concise and he suggested that Council not move forward until they have a more concise message on the signs. “We need a clearer message with less words,” he stated. “It needs to focus on noise, parking and occupancy.” Resident Larry Pierson was next to speak, addressing an entirely different topic: the final dissolving of the Isle of Palms Community Association (IOPCA). “I want the Council to know that the IOPCA, which disbanded in 2007, has formally been dissolved with the blessing of the Secretary of the State of South Carolina,” said Pierson. However, Pierson noted that there was a small amount of funds left over once the Association was dissolved. “So it is with a great deal of pleasure,” said Peirson, “that we give the remaining funds to the Isle of Palms Fire Department.” With that, he handed a check for $1500 to Mayor Cronin, who thanked him. Ways and Means Councilman Dee Taylor read through four recommendations by the Ways and Means committee, beginning with a recommendation from the Recreation Committee to spend no more than $1,700 from the Tree Fund to replace a dead live oak tree and to remove and replace a dead palm tree. The motion passed unanimously.

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The second recommendation from the Public Safety Committee was divided into four parts, which Councilman Taylor “lumped together” in order to expedite the readings. The recommendations included a) to accept the donation of one (1) Low Speed Vehicle, b) the consideration of removing surplus rightof-way on Palm Blvd. between the U.S. Post Office and Carolina Blvd., c) the award of contract for a security gate for temporary evidence storage in the Public Safety building in an amount not to exceed $1,800 and d) the approval of a donation of two (2) portable defibrillators to the SC Aquarium and an equipment exchange with Awendaw Fire Department. Councilman Taylor specified that the “surplus” in item b meant that the City is taking the property over from the State. They are not actually removing it; the State would be deeding it to the City. The group of motions was approved unanimously. The third recommendation involved the acceptance of the bid for sale of a pumper fire truck at $17,500 to Company 2. The motion passed unanimously. The last motion was the recommendation from the Real Property Committee to award the contract for management of the Isle of Palms Marina to Marina Joint Ventures. Since 1999, the City has been renewing agreements with the facilities at the Marina and when the City was looking at different options, they had the opportunity to refinance a bond, which allowed them to seek out a tenant to run the Marina. The City received two bids, only one of which was for the leasing of the Marina. The City made a counteroffer and the bidder accepted. The contract is for a $150,000 annual lease, with 15% of the profits in excess of $450,000 going toward the City. The length of the initial contract will be for five years, with two IOP Council contnued on page 22

September 4, 2009

Civic

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Sullivan’s Island Town Council August 18, 2009

The meeting began with the recognition of former Councilman Everett Presson’s extensive work with the Council, as well as the individuals associated with the Police and Fire Departments who dedicated themselves and risked their own lives between July 9 and 13, rescuing twelve individuals from dangerous rip currents and sand bar strandings.

Not worth the time Mayor Smith took a moment to reflect on this year’s Hurricane Expo, an event that is designed to give residents the tools and knowledge needed to prepare for a hurricane. Prior to the expo, he noted that he has noticed the same individuals, mostly islanders who have been here since Hugo, attending last year’s event while relatively new residents are very few and far between. It is the new residents, he says, that need this information more than anyone. He hoped that this year’s event would be more well attended, however, very few people showed up to this year’s Expo, and Mayor Smith questioned whether the Town should continue investing time and money in the event if those who could benefit from the free information are not utilizing it. “Why do it?” he asked out loud. IOP Mayor Dick Cronin concurred with Mayor Smith’s sentiments, stating that the Expo is planned to be held on the Isle of Palms next year. “We will put our heads together and come up with dramatic improvements or we will not keep holding the Expo,” Cronin said. “We will always have a program to help residents prepare. It may not be an Expo, but it is important to empower residents to prepare.”

Isle of Palms 886-6428 www.iop.net

Tuesday, September 8 Trash Collection Changes to Once Per Week Board of Zoning Appeals 5:30pm 1301 Palm Blvd Recreation Committee 5:30pm 24 Twenty-eighth Ave

NIXLE Over the past couple of months, the Town’s Police Department has been tinkering with a public alert system that would allow registered persons to receive alerts and messages from the Town on their cell phones or e-mail. It seems that the Town is ready to take the system to the people. The Sullivan’s Island Public Safety and Emergency Alert System is operated by NIXLE, which provides the same service for many other communities. To register, visit the Town’s website at www.sullivansislandsc.com and click on the large “NIXLE” link on the homepage. Accreting opinions At the time of the Town Council meeting, the Town was still soliciting opinions from residents and digesting the 112 responses it had received regarding the Accreted Land plan. The consultants are still expected to hold another public hearing sometime in the future. On a related note, Councilman Pat O’Neil discussed the progress that had been made on preserving smaller pockets of unbuildable land through a local land trust organization; Mount Pleasant Open Space. The Town has previously received requests from residents who own property that abut the marsh area to buy a smaller section of Town owned land that runs between their property and the marsh. In order to preserve the natural beauty in these places, O’Neil has been instrumental in researching the possibility of putting the smaller parcels in a land trust. Councilman Jerry Kaynard, however, questioned O’Neil’s philosophy and examined a potential hypoc-

Civic Calendar

Monday, September 7 City Offices will be CLOSED for the Labor Day holiday Wednesday, September 9 Recycle Sullivan's Island 883-3198 www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Monday, September 7 RESCHEDULED - Committees of Council to September 8th

Planning Commission 4:30pm 1301 Palm Blvd

Tuesday, September 8 Special Council Meeting 6pm 1610 Middle Street

Public Safety Committee Mtg 5pm 30 J.C.Long Blvd

Committees of Council 6:00pm 1610 Middle Street

risy when it comes to preservation between front beach land management versus the backside of the island. There has been a debate on the value of ocean views for front beach homeowners when it comes to how the accreted land should be managed. Currently, those residents are allowed to trim the area in order to preserve those views. However, that practice has come under fire as it increases fire hazards and pest problems in the name of vistas. Kaynard is among a group of front beach homeowners who engage in accreted land tree trimming. He questioned O’Neil’s desire to preserve views of the marsh on the backside of the island, while not necessarily fighting to preserve views for front beach homeowners who would lose the ocean views they paid for if the land is allowed to mature naturally. O’Neil pointed out that the issues were not SI Council continued on page 8

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

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

Lynn Pierotti Publisher [email protected] Kristin Hackler Editor [email protected] Swan Richards Graphic Designer [email protected] Ali Akhyari Assistant Editor [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Ashleigh McHenry Advertising [email protected] Interns Ben Gilbert Chris Marchewka Paul Robinson Dylan Sharek • Contributors Chamber Music Charleston David Farrow IOP Rec Center Liberty Foundation Poe Library Meredith Nelson, M.Ed Deborah Palmer Sarah Reynolds James T. Sears, Ph.D SC Restaurant Association The Sullivan's Islanders Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Submit your letters to the editor to: [email protected] Future deadlines: September 9 for all submissions.

For updates on the 2009 turtle nesting season, visit www.bergwerfgraphics.com

Wednesday, September 9 Planning Commission 6:30pm 1610 Middle Street Thursday, September 10 Board of Zoning Appeals 7pm 1610 Middle Street Tuesday, September 15 Regular Council Meeting 6pm 1610 Middle Street Wednesday, September 16 DRB MEETING 6pm 1610 Middle Street SI Municiple court is being held on September 8, 16, 17, 18 at 10am, 1610 Middle St

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”.

Op-Ed

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September 4, 2009

Common sense on common grounds by The Sullivan’s Islanders

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n August 4, consultants hired by the Sullivan’s Island Town Council presented management options for the 90 plus acres of accreted land in the RC-1 Recreation and Conservation Area District.  This RC-1land was placed in trust in 1991 with deed restrictions and Town ordinances indicating that the property should  “remain in its natural state”. While given latitude to manage the accreted land, Council is also required to determine whether the benefits of any proposed changes “outweigh the damage done to the aesthetic, ecological, scientific, or educational value of the Property in its natural state” and to consider alternative methods “which do not impact adversely on the natural state of the Property”.  The Town’s management plan established in 1995 provided for (1) beach paths for public and emergency access, (2) no cutting or pruning of hardwood trees and (3) limited pruning of Wax myrtles, Popcorn trees and Baccharis to seven feet to achieve an ocean view corridor.  In 2003, the minimum pruning height was lowered to five feet for ease of pruning which led to an unintended consequence: unsightly flat-topping of acres of myrtles with corresponding degradation of our natural barrier island habitats. Based on Town Council’s RFQ, consultants were charged with developing an improved conservation management plan that is scientifically based, including recommendations concerning the current trimming practices for an “ocean view corridor”, and “best protects the accreted land”.    Given the deed restrictions and the Town Council’s charge to consultants, it was disappointing that so little of the August 4 meeting dealt with crafting a plan that combines conservation of our natural barrier island habitats with lower-impact options for maintaining ocean views. Both goals are achievable and should be the focus of our creative efforts.  Instead, discussions have focused on property values - with mosquitoes, rats, snakes, fire and crime introduced - primarily to support a “need” to remove most of the current myrtles and trees and replace them with innocuous grasslands. On Property Values: It is being argued that preserving an expansive ocean view is critical to maintaining property value, both for weekly rental and for resale.  It is further suggested that adopting policies to maximize the property values of the 84 front beach properties

bordering the accreted land (Station 16 to Station 28 ½) is in the best interest of all Sullivan’s Island citizens because this will keep our taxes low. We respectfully disagree with this position for the following reasons:   First, it is doubtful that the assessed value of these 84 properties - only 8% of the 1026 or so tax-paying properties on Sullivan’s Island – contribute to a disproportionate share of the Town’s tax base. Second, and more to the point, Sullivan’s Island residents have always chosen to pursue policies that maximize the quality of life rather than the tax base.  Over the years, represented by our Mayor and Town Council, we have rejected the following: hotels, bed and breakfasts, condominiums, docks to every trickle of water in our marsh, subdivision of residential lots, mini-hotels for weekly rental and recently, development of the old dump site, all of which would have increased the tax base.  It is equally probable that property values, island-wide, are greater today because we have chosen quality of life over short-term financial gain.  Today, many Islanders value the natural beauty afforded by our rich and varied barrier island ecosystems: the marshes, dune grasses, swale ponds, myrtle scrub forest and developing maritime forest. Third, while we all recognize the concerns of our front beach neighbors, surely they understand that the impact of a maritime forest that may, or may not, develop on the accreted land (depending on the vagaries of nature) is far less than the impact of rows of houses built between their homes and the beach that are prevented by the RC-1 trust. The history of Sullivan’s Island is one of growth toward the ocean, with new streets platted and new homes built on accreted land. The Officers Quarters built on the beach are now several streets away.  Owners of beach front homes on Ion became secondrow home owners when accreted land was sold for today’s houses on Atlantic Avenue, and owners of beach front homes on Atlantic Avenue became second-row home owners when houses on Bayonne were built on accreted land.  Our current front beach neighbors need to appreciate that it is the protected RC-1 area, placed in trust to prevent development, which has preserved their firstrow status.  Furthermore, every property owner on Sullivan’s Island has sacrificed the increase in the town’s tax base – and consequently lower property taxes – that would have resulted from additional houses being built on

of a rating form. The August 4 presentation skimmed through Option 1: leaving the land largely in a natural state. It pointed out problems with Option 2: continuing present practices. It completely skipped Option 3: expanded  vegetation On Mosquitoes, rats, snakes, management. The focus of the presentation was almost entirely fires and crime: Additional, ancillary issues are on Option 4: expanded vegetation raised that supposedly bolster management and topographic This option the need for extensive removal manipulation. of vegetation in the accreted requires the construction of a land.  All of these ancillary issues berm (termed a “storm dune”) have relatively simple and less approximately 6 ft high,75 ft wide at the base and tapering expensive alternative solutions.  Mosquitoes and Rats:  The to 25 ft at the top, which would hedging of the myrtles has led run the length of the accreted to dense growth that can trap land (Station 12 to Station 28 moisture, increase mosquitoes, ½). This berm is to replace the and shield rats from predators.  natural storm protection that is According to the consultants, one provided by the myrtles and trees, solution is to stop hedging the which would be largely removed myrtles.  However, it is not clear and replaced by grasslands.  that these pests are any greater This option also includes some problem near the accreted land drainage of wetlands to form duck than elsewhere on the island.  All ponds and footpaths through a Islanders use the beach paths reconstructed park-like area. The through the accreted land and consultants avoided a question about cost and countered that few have complained. Fires: Although some have grants could be sought to fund expressed a fear of fire in the this option.                                We favor a thoughtful myrtles, fires in accreted land have been rare in the past 30 combination of options 1, 2 and years.  Most front-row homes 3, with a different management are a considerable distance strategy for different areas. We from RC-1 myrtles, and closer are strongly opposed to Option 4.  to pines in their own yards than The RC-1 land was placed in trust to pines in the protected area.  to preserve in its natural state for The one recent fire was far from the benefit and enjoyment of all the adjacent home and was the citizens of Sullivan’s Island.  quickly extinguished by our fire It is a beautiful and varied department.  If fire is a problem, habitat, with great ecological and we should consider options such educational value.  It makes no as selective thinning or removal sense to essentially reconfigure of invasive species immediately this natural area into a park, at major expense and considerable adjacent to homes.  Personal safety:  The 2007 attack ecological damage, when all of at Station 16 was despicable, the goals can be obtained with but is this a sufficient reason for far less drastic, and far less dismantling the maritime forest as expensive, measures.  It will be a some have suggested? Thousand net loss if we replace our swale upon thousands of visitors have ponds with duck ponds. Our accessed our beach with very few natural vegetation – plus the problems.  In 30 years we have elevation and construction of confirmed only two additional our homes – provide substantial incidents near the beach.  One storm protection.  It is neither occurred in the dunes, yet the cost-effective nor ecologically Town did not consider flattening sound to remove considerable the dunes.  The other occurred amounts of our natural barrier on a beach path, but the attacker island vegetation - which nature hid behind vegetation on private provides for free - and replace property and the young lady it with a costly berm, for a escaped by running into the relatively minor net gain in storm myrtles in the accreted land area. protection.  And, after the next The scope of these problems hurricane, nature will replace the needs to be established to develop vegetation for free. We hope everyone will continue appropriate and proportionate solutions.  These ancillary issues to stay informed, and participate, this important debate should not serve as a pretext for as wholesale removal of myrtles and continues. Town Council and the Planning Commission will trees in the accreted land. discuss the issues, hold public hearings, and make decisions.  On The Management Options:  The consultants outlined Please express your opinions to four land management options Town Council and be a part of and solicited feedback by way this process. this accreted land. All residents of Sullivan’s Island have made this sacrifice, and all residents are paying higher taxes, in order to preserve our accreted land as a treasure for all to enjoy in many different ways.

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Civic

September 4, 2009

Rules and reminders in IOP rentals

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t’s an issue that has been bubbling to the political surface of the Isle of Palms for years: how to inform IOP guests of the local laws and do it in a way that still demonstrates the southern hospitality for which South Carolina is known. At the recent Isle of Palms Council meeting on August 25, Council members and committee volunteers discussed the verbiage for new rental signage to be placed throughout the Isle of Palms rental units. The signage would do the same as the signs which are currently in place – address laws pertaining to courtesy and limitations on occupancy – however, the new format foregoes the former signs’ eight point font and attempts to generalize so that the font is large enough and the message short enough so that it will actually be read by renters. The signs would hopefully make the renters feel welcomed on the island, while at the same time reminding them to respect their neighbors and abide by island laws. Two island residents, Jeff Jacobs and Sandy Stone, recently cooperated with the guidance of

By Paul Robinson

the IOP Council to achieve these goals. Currently, the City of the Isle of Palms mandates that the sign be placed in rental properties, although they have yet to decide on a standard location. However, the finalization and standardization of the new sign is pending approval by the City Council. The current sign design under discussion is available on the web site www.tinyurl.com/ iopsigns. A frustrated fifty year resident of the Isle of Palms, Jimmy Carroll points out that short-term renters and guests will visually see the rental agreement/signage three times before they step foot inside his rental property. “How many times do we have to tell them?” asks Carroll. “The City of Isle of Palms is number one in the tourism industry in South Carolina. We want to welcome short-term renters and vacationers in a fashion that is balanced between the excitement for coming to South Carolina’s premier coast line and abiding by the local rules and regulations.” However, Carroll

feels that the rules are enforced a little too harshly on the island; an approach which, to him, is deterring guests rather than inviting them to stay. “Recent guests of my rental property were awakened at 1:15am by the local sheriff’s office and were written a ticket for having too many vehicles on the premises,” says Carroll. “Where do we draw the line of encouraging tourism and harassing our guests? Would it not serve the local sheriff’s department to have more meaningful tickets written such as for speeding and littering?” When visiting the Isle of Palms, vacationers are surrounded by year-round residents who do not want to hear raging parties at one o’clock in morning, but would still like to keep the popularity of the island and its reputation for hospitality at a maximum. According to local business owner Sandy Stone of Island Reality, “We have close to 100,000 guests visit the IOP every year and, if you look at local police reports, roughly less than 1% of them cause the problems. It is the residents that cause most of the problems. Noise

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is an issue and we want guests to feel welcome and to be mindful of others around them. We ask that guests keep it at a dull roar and to be respectful of the surrounding community, but to also feel that visiting IOP was time well spent and to come back and visit our breathtaking coastline.” When the new signage was brought up during the Council meeting, the Council voted to go into an executive meeting to discuss the wording of a potential resolution. After a twenty five minute discussion, the Council motioned that the “yellow” rental notice sign (the new signs which Jeff Jacobs brought to the Council for review) be placed in a conspicuous location within 15 feet of the rental structure. The resolution was turned down 4 to 5, with Council members Carol Rice, Dee Taylor, Ryan Buckhannon and Martin Bettelli voting against it. The signs will be discussed again during the Short Term Rental meeting, which will take place on September 16 at 5:30pm in Council Chambers.

September 4, 2009

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17th Annual Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk set for October 3

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he annual Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child began 17 years ago with the opening of the Isle of Palms Connector, and continues today with the goal of supporting the prevention of child abuse and other childrelated programs.  Net proceeds from the event go to support this cause.  Last year’s event hosted over 1200 participants and raised over $50,000 for child-related charities located right here in the Lowcountry, including the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children’s Center, Darkness to Light, MUSC Children’s Hospital, Windwood Farm Home for Children and others.   Offering views of the Atlantic Ocean, local creeks, marshes and the Intracoastal Waterway, the 10K and 5K races begin at 8am the foot of the IOP Connector on the Isle of Palms. 10K runners and 5K runners and walkers will cross the connector toward Mount Pleasant, then return to the Isle of Palms, with the race finishing at

by the mount pleasant recreation department

the front beach area.  Following its finish, participants will enjoy a post-race festival featuring food and family fun.   The course for the 2009 race has been slightly modified to simplify the 10K run.  The starting line will remain the same as previous years’ races; however, the 10K turnaround point as well as the race’s finish line will be moved, with the turnaround taking place on the Connector just before Rifle Range Road, and the finish line being moved to JC Long Boulevard, close to the corner of Palm Boulevard. Racers may pick up their race packets or participate in late registration on Thursday, October 1 from 3 - 7pm at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, located at 201 Palm Boulevard, and on Friday, October 2, from 11am – 7pm.  Packet pickup and late registration will also be available the morning of the event, from 6:30 – 7:30am at the Isle of Palms Public Safety Building.  Following the race, awards for

the 10K and 5K runs will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers, the top male and female masters and grand masters finishers and the top three male and female finishers in 15 age categories. Fees for the 10K or 5K run are $30 if received by Friday, September 25, and $35 thereafter.  5K walker fees are $25 if received by September 25, and $30 thereafter.  For those interested in helping the cause but do not wish to participate in the race, there is also a $10 “sleep in” option in which one may receive an official race t-shirt without race participation.  Participants who register online have the

option of receiving official finisher certificates as well as Time Tracker messaging to obtain live race results. The Isle of Palms Connector will be closed to vehicles beginning at 7am the morning of the race.  The event is presented by Bi-Lo. The Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child is organized by the Exchange Clubs of Mount Pleasant and the Isle of Palms, the City of Isle of Palms and the Town of Mount Pleasant.           For further details or to download a registration form for mail-in, visit www.IOPConnectorRun.com or register call the run’s info line at 886-8294.

(left and above) Runners and walkers make their way across the Isle of Palms Connector during the 2008 Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child.  This year’s event is set for October 3, 2009. PHOTOS BY Sarah Reynolds

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8 SI Council from page 3 identical and that he is concerned with protecting land from development and not so much with protecting personal vistas. The possibility of preserving smaller parcels of land through Mount Pleasant Open Space is expected to be discussed further at the Real Estate Committee’s September meeting. Sabbath Tax Councilman Mike Perkis, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, announced the result of an investigation dealing with local restaurants/bars which may have been selling alcohol on Sundays without a permit. According to South Carolina State law, restaurants and bars have to buy a separate annual license in order to sell alcohol on Sundays. That license costs $3000. After looking through the Town budget, Council member Madeleine McGee noticed that up to four local businesses had not bought the license, but were selling alcohol on Sundays. Perkis stated that the Town would follow up on the discovery and would make sure that every restaurant selling alcohol on Sundays is operating legally. The reason for the inconsistency might be simple confusion. While the liquor license which is purchased from the State is good for two years, the separate license

for Sunday alcohol sales is only good for one. It is possible that the owners assumed both are good for two years. Commercial families Hal Currey, Chairman of the Town’s Planning Commission, reported on the Commission’s responsibility to examine residential construction in the Commercial District. The discussion was somewhat confusing as to what is currently allowed. However, the Council’s desire to allow single-family residences in the Commercial District while prohibiting duplexes was crystal clear. The issue came up when a property owner asked the Council if he could build a single-family residence on the commercial side of his split-zoned property at a previous meeting. It was clear that the Council seemed willing to allow it, but became bogged down in legalities. They also had a negative opinion of duplexes, which are currently allowed in that zone. Council member Jerry Kaynard suggested a forum with property owners to discuss the issue. Currey stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing to which only 3-4 people showed up to speak. However, another public hearing is expected on the matter. Contact Town Hall to find out if that hearing has been scheduled.

September 4, 2009

Allstate welcomes North Light

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.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

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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 Insurance continued on page 9

September 4, 2009

Do You Know Your Charleston

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A blast from the past

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any thanks and a tip o’ the “Do you know your Charleston?” hat to John Quincy (www.wtmamemories. com). From the days of yore: Mike Young of James Island brings up an interesting take on the radio business. While my friends and I listened to radio, we were entertained by its content. Young was entertained by his own agenda. He writes: “I have reason to believe that I was a participant in the first 'chat room'. I didn’t get my first computer until the late eighties and didn’t go online until the early nineties, yet I was communicating electronically with several people simultaneously as early as 1959. It just recently dawned on me that I had ventured into cyberspace over 40 years ago as a teenager in sleepy little Charleston, South Carolina. No, I didn’t invent a revolutionary communication device from spare electronics parts. Our family’s electronic equipment inventory consisted of an AM radio, a black and white 17″ TV, and a hi-fi record player that played only 45 rpm records. It would have taken MacGyver

By David Farrow

with an assist from Houdini to announce that the next song come up with a new messaging would be a ‘name-it-and-claimmachine using those old vacuum it’, which would prompt every kid tube powered dinosaurs. Oh yes, (most TMA listeners were 12 to we also had a black rotary dial 18 years of age) in the Charleston telephone. Only one phone, and area to call the radio station. The it was on a “party line” with two first person to get through with other families. the correct name of the Eavesdropping song would win a gift on someone else’s certificate good for one conversation free 45 rpm record. For was fun and those of you under the informative, but age of fifty, the 45 was that wasn’t the the small record with chat room I alluded the large hole. Some of to. you may have witnessed A sense of déjà your tipsy uncle vu kicked in when slipping one over each I recently logged David Farrow, Charlestonian. ear and announcing on to a computer chat room for ‘Look I’m Mickey Mouse!’ The gift the first time. I felt instantly that certificates could be redeemed I had done this many, many years at the Fox, McClain, or Seigling ago. My stream of consciousness music stores. My friends and I went something like this: name- won a lot of records, but the real it-and-claim-it … pick up phone fun was the phenomenon we … dial WTMA … get a busy signal experienced when the line was … EUREKA! busy. ‘Name-it-and-claim-it’ was a What happened was this: wildly popular game/contest that because of the large number of was played nightly by the WTMA calls to the same number at the radio station audience of the same time, those receiving a busy nineteen fifties and sixties. Several signal were somehow connected times each evening the DJ would and could talk through the ‘bomp-bomp-bomp’. Some voices sounded like they were very far away, while others were as clear as if they were on a direct line. Like today’s chat rooms, people played Insurance continued from page 8

G ina Rowe

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games and told fibs about their appearance and age (older not younger), but unlike today, they usually got busted by someone they knew who was also ‘on-theline’. Because of the small size of the city, when you met someone on-the-line, you would often find that you had friends in common or in some cases actually knew one another. It was also a much more innocent time, so the threat of sex offenders and the like lurking about was unheard of, and their adult voices would probably have raised suspicion anyway. Something that I just recently realized is that the folks at WTMA probably had no idea that they were hosting a big party every time they announced a name-itand-claim-it game. Neither did our parents.” So you tell me. Was I in the first chat room? Were you there? Was this happening all over America? Would it work today? Hey, let’s check it out. At eight PM tomorrow let’s all call WTMA and see what happens. What do you mean we’re too old? We could just lie about our ages again! To be honest, Mike, at my age, I try to lie about my age every chance I get. Read more from David Farrow at davidfarrow.wordpress.com. 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.

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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

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

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.

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

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]

www.islandeyenews.com

September 4, 2009

11

A tennis-volleyball love affair By Dylan Sharek

Students from the Isle of Palms summer Theater Camp held their final performance on August 14 at the Recreation Center to the delight of parents, staff and members of the Isle of Palms City Council.

PHOTOS BY Isle of Palms Recreation Center

ot many sports have grown in popularly as quickly as beach tennis. Once a secluded, intermittent pickup game played only overseas, beach tennis debuted in 2005 at the Charleston Maritime Festival to puzzled looks. Since then, however, Charleston has become known as beach tennis’ official birthplace and as the hub for Beach Tennis USA, the game’s tournament organizer. This past Saturday and Sunday, beach tennis returned to the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms for the Charleston Open. Charleston natives Phil Whitesell and Chris Henderson, The 2005 and 2006 Beach Tennis USA National Champions, once again triumphed over the rest of the professional field, beating Timo Seibert and Matt Hane 8-2 in the final. The tournament attracted a wide variety of newcomers for its amateur segment, including Mount Pleasant residents Alex Scott, 14, and Eric Donald, 13. Both competitors take traditional tennis lessons from Whitesell and at his urging, they recently took up beach tennis. “They like it. It’s a nice little diversion for them. It certainly keeps them away from the Xbox,” said Eric Donald’s mother, Heidi Schless. The Charleston Open was their first sanctioned competition.

The girls take their bow after an excellent performance. 

Catch of the day

PHOTO BY: Kristin Cummings

N

The whole island’s a stage

Scott and Donald served their way to victory, winning their first game 8-6. In the end, however, Mount Pleasant residents Nate Spears and John Bumgarner took the amateur title en route to participating in their first professional tourney. For more information on beach tennis, visit www.beachtennisusa. net

Keenan (3) and Tanner (6) Cummings caught this 13 pound red fish fishing with their dad, Bobby, on August 16.  Keenan fought it as long as she could and then big brother Tanner brought it to the boat.  The fish was caught near Sullivan’s Island on a live finger Mullet and was released to fight another day.

Beach access at Station 25

Randy Robinson checks out the progress on a new beach access on Station 25.

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Friday, September 4

Isle of Palms Connector Run/ Walk signup begins Runners and walkers of all experience levels are invited to register now. This year’s run and walk across the connector will take place Saturday, October 3, at 8am. Registration is now open online.  Interested participants may register now through September 28 at www.IOPConnectorRun.com. Carolina Coast Surf Club reunion Members and non-members alike are invided to join the Carolina Coast Surf Club for their annual reunion on the Isle of Palms beach

September 4, 2009

in front of the VFW from September 4 - 7. For more info, call Tom at 883-3100. Non member tickets to the dinner events are $20 adults and $10, 15 years old & younger.

Saturday, September 5

International Vulture Awareness Day At the Center for Birds of Prey in Awendaw from 10am to 5pm. The Center educators will provide a variety of vulture-centric programs and activities. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for youth (ages 6-18) and free for children under six accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Tryal of Major Stede Bonnet: alias the Gentleman Pirate A one of a kind interactive theatrical event which brings to life the trials and glories of the Gentleman Pirate Stede Bonnet. Performance takes place both inside and outside Charleston’s Historic Powder Magazine. 40 minutes. The Powder Magazine, 79 Cumberland St. Starting at 4:30pm. Admission is $8-$12. For more info, call 5346169, email Rodneyleerogers@ gmail.com, and visit www.puretheatre.org.

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. For more info, call Eugenia Beach at 266-9800.

Wednesday, September 9

After School Adventures: After School Paddle Come paddle with us after school!  We’ll spend some time reviewing and learning basic canoe and kayak strokes; then we’ll play some fun paddling games. 3:30-6pm at Palmetto Islands County Park. Preregistration required. Ages 6 – 12. Fee: $12. For more info, call 7954386.

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

Is l a nd E y e

September 4 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. 

Friday, September 11 Patriot’s Day

National Day of Caring Mozart in the South Starting at 7pm at the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul (126 Coming Street, 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 (843)763-4941.  Surf seining Gain a new perspective on creatures of the surf zone.  Anchovy, pompano, kingfish, stingray, crabs, and even a squid have shown up in our net.  Come out and meet some of your wave-bound neighbors. Pre-registration required. Isle of Palms County Park. 4 – 5pm. Age: 6 & up. Fee: $8/$6 CCR Discount. For more info, call 7954386 / www.ccprc.com.

Saturday, September 12

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: i.e. in March we will plant vegetables and

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883-5030

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

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September 4, 2009

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- September 17 in November we will pick dried corn to feed the cows. 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. ECCO’s Neighbor Run: Step for Step, Neighbors for Neighbors 5k run/walk at Palmetto Islands County Park to benefit the Santa’s Closet Christmas Program. Cost is $25 before September 7 and $35 until race day. For more info or to register, please visit www.eccocharleston.org or call 849-9220. 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. Concert on the Cooper Come out to the new Mount Pleasant Pier for the new Concerts on the Cooper series featuring Super Deluxe whose members have shared the stage with famous names like Kool & The Gang, Hootie & The Blowfish, Marshall Tucker Band, Edwin McCain, Black Crowes and The Drifters. Gates open at 7:30pm and music starts at 8:30pm. Tickets are $8 and will only be available for purchase at the event.  No refunds or exchanges.  For ages 3 and up. Call 795-4FUN (4386) for more info. The Tryal of Major Stede Bonnet alias the Gentleman Pirate See Saturday, September 5.

Sunday, September 13 Grandparent’s Day

13 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. 

Wednesday, September 16 Shellfish season begins

the event.  OB/GYN, Call-8294 for more information. Constitution Week at Charles Pinckney National Historic site Celebrate Constitution Week by attending one of the free special events scheduled September 1723, 2009, at Charles Pinckney National Historic Site at 1254 Long Point Road in Mount Pleasant. A naturalization ceremony will be held on Thursday at 10:30am, watch period craftsmen spin wool, dye indigo and demonstrate brick masonry. Music and a game of cricket will also take place. For more info, visit www.nps.gov/chpi or call 881-5516.

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 to the luncheon are $60.  For more info, please call 559-6040, email [email protected] or visit www. catrfarms.org. Café Medley “over the hump” wine tasting  Call ahead for this week’s theme and specials. From 7pm to 10pm. Purchase your own Cafe Medley wine glass for $10 and your first tasting is free! Bring your wine glass, and all future tastings are only $5. A selection of 3 cheeses is $10 while 5 cheeses is $15. For more information, call Café Medley at 793-4055. Located at 2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island.

Thursday, September 17

IOP Community Wellness Fair At the Isle of Palms Recreation Center from 8am – 12 noon. Fasting bloodwork will be offered from 7am 11am, including a comprehensive metabolic panel and lipid profile.  Participants interested in bloodwork should call 884-7031 for an appointment and bring $25 cash or check the morning of

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Moultrie Camp No. 27 Sons of Confederate Veterans monthly meeting At The Point Grill, 176 Patriots Point Blvd, Mount Pleasant. Dinner is at 6pm and speaker at 6:30pm.  This month’s speaker is former Division Commander Max Jackson. We invite all SC V members and anyone interested in preserving the true history of the South to attend. Moultrie Camp is the 2009 recipient of the SC Division 1st Place Robert E. Lee Division Outstanding Camp Award and the SC Division 2008 Jefferson Davis Commander Award Camp of the Year.  www.SCV27.org

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Rombauer wine Kids love dinner at Atlanticville Home Team

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provided

tlanticville is pleased to welcome Alan Cannon, National Sales Manger of Rombauer Wines, to host our five-course Rombauer Wine Dinner on Thursday, September 24 at 7pm. Over the past 27 years, Rombauer wines have garnered some of the most prestigious scores, reviews, and awards available in the world of wine.  Last year, Wine and Spirits Magazine listed Rombauer Chardonnay as the second most popular Chardonnay in American Restaurants and Rombauer Vineyards as the ninth most popular Winery Bran d in American Restaurants.   Consistently scoring 90+ points in all major publications, Rombauer’s wines are among the best of the best. Alan Cannon, founder of the PFW (Professional Friends of Wine), started in the wine business in 1971. He taught classes in wine marketing and sensory evaluation for 15 years at CSUF and was a founding partner of Bailey-Cannon Wine Merchants. Alan now lives in

Napa Valley and represents Rombauer Vineyards of St. Helena, CA, in national sales. His favorite wine? “Whatever is in my glass at the time I’m drinking it,” says Cannon. Chef William Condon, General Manager Drew Harris, and Alan Cannon of Rombauer will create a delicious five course menu centered around Rombauer’s Carneros Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet, and Zinfandel.   The fifth course will be paired with Joy, a botrytised Chardonnay which is about 16% residual sugar. Rombauer produced about 300 cases of half bottles of the 2006 vintage and didn't make a 2007 or a 2008. They’ve only made the wine five times since 1997.   The exact menu will be available in the next couple weeks since Chef Condon wants to use the freshest local ingredients possible. Please contact Drew at Atlanticville at 843 883 9452 or at [email protected] to reserve your spot today.   There will be a very limited number of seats available.

September 4, 2009

H

ome Team Barbeque seems to be settling comfortably into its new niche in the former Bert’s Bar location on Sullivan’s Island. Although the night scene is attracting bluegrass and classic rock lovers from across the Lowcountry, the island children as also enjoying the fun atmosphere and creative children’s plates.

Sally Rowson from Downtown Charleston loved her food so much, she decided to eat the bill!

Ryder Bishop from Sullivan’s Island gives Chef Taylor Garrigan a big hug.

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Fitness

September 4, 2009

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The great exercise debate: is all this exercise really making us fat? By Meredith Nelson, M.Ed

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n the August 10 issue of TIME Magazine, columnist John Cloud expanded on his theory that exercise is the culprit making us fat. His “Why Exercise Won’t Make You Thin” article makes the assumption that the belief of “if you exercise, you will lose weight” is erroneous. Not only does he state that exercise serves no purpose in a weight loss regimen, he says that exercise is actually making us fatter! Partly due to the fact that his own personal experiences support this theory (although Cloud exercises at least five days a week in the gym, he still carries more weight than he would like around his gut) and partly because, despite the increased numbers of people who say they exercise regularly, the incidence of obesity has risen dramatically, the author proclaims that the role of exercise in weight loss is “wildly overstated”. He does, however, indicate positive effects of exercise in lowering the risk of many diseases – cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and others. His credibility ended with me when he went on to explain how, in his mind, exercising to lose weight is a worthless effort and waste of time. Cloud states that the reason exercise may actually be making us fat is three-fold:  Exercising stimulates hunger and causes us to overeat.  By using up our allotted amount of selfcontrol to force ourselves to spend hours in the gym, we have no willpower left with which to resist the temptation of tasty treats and snacks.  We compensate for exerting so much physical activity through exercise that we reduce the amount of normal activity we get throughout the day. This article has sparked numerous reactions and rebuttals from the fitness profession. Researchers and academics have responded in several fitness industry journals, group exercise instructors and private trainers are mumbling, and fitness enthusiasts are questioning their efforts. Personally, my own experiences are a testimony to the value of exercise – from physical, mental, health risk-reducing, and weight maintenance standpoints. Let’s take a look at Cloud’s three assumptions introduced above: 1) Exercising stimulates hunger and causes us to overeat. The first part of this is true. Exercise does – and should – stimulate us to eat. Although many people report a temporary suppressed appetite immediately following exercise, there is no way we can burn calories without experiencing hunger. But it’s

WHAT we eat after we exercise, and how much of it, that causes the problem. The problem is that many of us cannot figure out exactly what it is that we need to consume following exercise. For example, many exercisers follow their workout with a bottle of Gatorade, not realizing that many bottles contain more than one serving of the beverage inside, and therefore extra calories may be consumed. So, although Gatorade is effective in replacing lost electrolytes (which shouldn’t even be necessary unless one is exercising in extreme heat, or for over an hour), one would be better off consuming a small amount of complex carbohydrates in combination with a bit of protein and a trace of healthy fats (think a teaspoon of peanut butter on a slice of whole grain bread, perhaps with a banana, for example) to help encourage protein synthesis and reload the muscles with glycogen, to be ready for the next workout. Of course, the fact still remains that if one consumes more calories than one burns, the excess calories will be stored as fat. The above “recovery meal” won’t do any good in helping one lose weight if the overall calories being taken in are more than those being burned. 2) By using up our allotted amount of selfcontrol to force ourselves to spend hours in the gym, we have no self-control left with which to resist the temptation of tasty treats and snacks. This is true to some extent. When we are very strict on ourselves in some areas, it may become more difficult to be regimented and disciplined in another area. That is why I recommend that everything – exercising, eating, and drinking – be done in moderation. For healthy, permanent weight loss, we don’t need to force ourselves to spend hours in the gym. We need to increase the low intensity exercise we do throughout the day. This is what burns fat. High-intensity exercise burns muscle glycogen and is good for improving performance (for those that are interested in performing a particular sport) and burning calories. But low intensity activity – and lots of it – is key in losing fat. So that addresses the issue of self-control needed to spend hours in the gym. But what about the self-control you need to say no to that muffin that would be so delicious with your morning coffee? That candy bar when you’re hungry? Even that tasty chocolate protein drink? In my humble opinion, the ability to resist such temptations is based on an individual’s education of nutrition, understanding of portion control, and the ability to think ahead and plan. By reading labels and having an understanding of calories from carbohydrates, fat, and protein, along with the list of ingredients and what you can actually learn from that list, one can make informed decisions about what they are putting in their mouths. Pre-determining the portion size you will eat – eating half the muffin, or dividing your restaurant dinner into two portions and taking half of it home as opposed to eating everything on the plate - can drastically reduce the number of calories you take in. And by simply putting some thought into your day, scheduling meals, and having something available to eat in those “emergency” situations where you may be stuck in traffic or don’t have time for lunch, can thwart the temptation to head for the drive-through.

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3) We compensate for exerting so much physical activity through exercise that we reduce the amount of normal activity we get throughout the day. Well, once again, my humble opinion is quite different from the author’s. Au contraire, Mr. Cloud. Do you really think that if you gave up your hour at the gym everyday, you would be less inclined to sit watching television in the evening? Or that you would spend less time at the computer compiling your thoughts for next week’s article? Do you honestly believe that as a by-product of spending less time on the treadmill, you may actually ride a bike to the grocery, the neighborhood pool, or even to work? I highly doubt that. Our society has turned into one of convenience when unnecessary. We drive when we can walk to get there faster. We surf channels on television instead of getting outside to walk on the beach. We take the elevators and not the steps. All because it takes less effort and time; not because we’ve exhausted ourselves in the gym. In fact, most people I know who exercise regularly claim it gives them energy to keep up with their kids, require less sleep, and get more done. In closing I would like to point out perhaps the most substantial argument against Cloud’s assertion, and that is the findings of years of research performed by the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR). According to the NWCR website, the study is the “largest prospective investigation of long-term successful weight loss maintenance”. The NWCR was developed in 1994 in an effort to identify the characteristics of individuals who had succeeded in achieving and maintaining a weight-loss of at least 30 pounds. (On a personal note, I myself have been a participant study since the inception of the NWCR. The findings, some of which you will see below, mirror my own strategies and efforts in losing and maintaining my weight.) Annual questionnaires are distributed to participants to help determine the behavioral and psychological characteristics of the subjects, as well as the strategies they use to maintain their weight losses. Over the last fifteen years, 94% of the study participants report that part of their success has been due to an increase in physical activity, with the most frequently reported form of activity being walking (another plug for the above-mentioned low-intensity activity). Additionally, 90% of the participants report exercising for an hour every day. Of course, proper nutrition is crucial as well - 98% of the NWCR participants indicate that they modified their food intake in some way to lose weight. The bottom line is that weight loss and maintenance are a balance of calories in and calories out. Exercise is a necessary part of weight loss, but it doesn’t stop there. Daily activity – whether throughout the day or for an hour in the gym – is important for not only losing weight, but also for overall physical and mental health and wellness. Meredith Nelson, M.Ed, is the owner of PrimeTime Fitness, Inc, on Sullivan’s Island. Offering group fitness classes, PrimeTime Spin, private yoga, personal training, and monthly gym membership, Meredith divides her time between the gym on Sullivan’s Island and limited in-home training on Daniel Island, where she resides along with her husband Mark. Meredith can be reached with your fitness questions at 883-0101, or [email protected].

16

We the People

September 4, 2009

celebrate Constitution Week

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oin the National Park Service in celebration of Constitution Week by attending one of the free special events scheduled September 1723, 2009, at Charles Pinckney National Historic Site at 1254 Long Point Road in Mount Pleasant. The park preserves the last 28 acres of Snee Farm, a plantation that was once owned by Charles Pinckney, a principal framer and signer of the U.S. Constitution. On Constitution/Citizenship Day, Thursday, September 17, at 10:30am, the park’s annual naturalization ceremony will be held when up to 150 candidates will be sworn in as America’s newest citizens. The public and school groups are invited to the free program, and are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets as seating will be limited. Two days of living history are scheduled on Friday and Saturday, September 18 and 19, from 10am

to 2pm. Watch craftsmen in period dress demonstrate ricepounding, indigo-dyeing, ironsmithing, brick masonry and domestic arts. Also included are Revolutionary War soldiers, 18th century music, sweetgrass basket sewing, quilting, African drumming, Gullah story-telling and a visit from Eliza Lucas Pinckney. Visitors can participate in a game of historic cricket. Throughout the week, visitors may take part in the “I Signed the Constitution” program, signing a scroll that will be sent to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the city where Charles Pinckney and 38 other delegates signed the worldchanging document on September 17, 1787. All events are free. For more information or group reservations, please call the park at 881-5516 or visit us on the Web at: www. nps.gov/chpi

Presson recognized for service

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verett Presson was recognized by the Town of Sullivan’s Island for his service as a member of the Town Council. He was present to receive the resolution and, despite a joking warning not to speak from Pat O’Neil, took a moment to thank everyone involved with the Town and to reflect on his life on Sullivan’s Island. Presson, a local real estate agent, recalled making his first sale to the current Mayor Carl Smith, who moved to the island around the same time. That sale, he said, was the start of his career. Among many other moments worthy of a mark on the Everett Presson timeline, he was elected to the Town Council in 2005 and served in that position for four years. “What a pleasure it’s been to serve with this Council,” Presson said. “Thank ya’ll very much.”

www.islandeyenews.com

September 4, 2009

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WWII B-17 Bomber takes flight over Charleston

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f you’ve ever wanted to fly in an authentic World War II B-17 bomber, now’s your chance. The Liberty Foundation’s B-17 “Liberty Belle” is one of only 14 B-17s that still fly today, and the Liberty Foundation will be offering flights to the public on September 5 and 6 from 10am – 5pm. The B-17, dubbed the “Flying Fortress” as a result of her defensive fire power, saw action in every theater of operation during WWII. “Liberty Belle” was built toward the end of the war and never saw any combat. It is painted in the colors and nose art of the original “Liberty Belle” B-17 that flew countless missions with the 390th bomb group of the mighty 8th Airforce. The Liberty Foundation’s B-17G had an interesting post war history. Sold as scrap in 1947 to a mining company, it was sold again to Pratt & Whitney soon after for the sum of $2,700. Pratt & Whitney operated the B-17 until 1967, during which time it was

Provided by the Liberty Foundation

heavily modified to be a test bed for their T-34 and T-64 turbo prop engines, thus making it a five engine B-17. In 1968, the B-17 was then donated to the Connecticut Aeronautical Historic society. Unfortunately, in 1979 the B-17 was heavily damaged in a tornado that threw another airplane onto the B-17’s mid-section, breaking her back. The wreck was stored until 1987 when it was acquired by an aviation enthusiast in Florida with the intent of restoring the aircraft. In 1992, the slow, laborious task of restoration began and at the turn of the century, the B-17 was sold again to Don Brooks of the Liberty Foundation. Brooks, whose father flew B-17s with the 390th bomb group during WWII, founded the Liberty Foundation; a non profit museum dedicated to preserving our aviation heritage, and funded the complete restoration of the B-17 back to her full wartime configuration as she appears today. He chose to paint the B-17 as the “Liberty Belle” in tribute to his father, who was a Tail gunner and flew numerous combat missions in the original “Liberty Belle”. Following a fourteen year restoration, the B-17 took to the skies again on December 8, 2004. The “Liberty Belle” provides visitors with the opportunity to take a step back in time and gain respect for the men and women who gave so much to protect our freedoms. During flight operations, there will be a designated, secure area for

"The Liberty Belle"

those who would like to watch the bomber flight at no charge. For enthusiasts that choose to take a flight experience on this legendary aircraft, these participants receive a pre-flight safety briefing containing the historical significance of the aircraft and a spectacular scenic air tour around the city. During the flight, passengers enjoy the unique opportunity of moving about the aircraft to the different combat crew positions to see the viewpoint that thousands of our heroes saw in combat over 60 years ago. The total flight experience takes 45 minutes with approximately half an hour in flight. Flights experiences are $395 for Liberty Foundation members and $430 for non-members. Passengers can become a Liberty Foundation Member for $40 and receive the member discount for family and

friends. While $430 per person sounds expensive, it must be put into perspective when compared to a B-17’s operating cost. A Flying Fortress cost over $4500 per flight hour and the Liberty Foundation spends over $1,000,000 annually to keep the "Liberty Belle" airworthy and out on tour. The Liberty Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit flying museum and funds generated merely help offset these high cost. Only the public’s interest and other generous donations keep the "Liberty Belle" flying and from being silenced permanently in a museum. This is your invitation to see, tour and fly a mission in the Liberty Foundation’s B-17 flying fortress “ Liberty Belle” and take advantage of this ultimate historical experience, come touch the past and fly through ageless skies.

CAPTIONS: 001 Louise Welch, Regional Executive Director of the Carolina Red

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Those that save lives

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Staff report

he Sullivan’s Island Town Council recognized the Town’s Police Department, Fire Department, Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, and firefighter Amanda Hawver for their parts in preserving life and responding to emergencies between July 9 and July 13. During that short four day stint, Sullivan’s Island’s waters became especially treacherous, sweeping many people out to sea and trapping others on shoals. Hawver and volunteer Lewis White were individually recognized for rescuing three people after they had “entered the area without regard to their own personal safety, and cooperatively worked together, contributing to saving three lives” while they were on marine patrol. The following individuals were also “commended and congratulated for their bravery

and effort”: Police Department: Chief Dan Howard, Lieutenant Chris Griffin, Corporal Chris Wallace, Officers Doug Archer, Darren Botticelli, Anthony Horne, Tim Mast, Josh Poole as well as Tom McLellan. Fire Department: Chief Anthony Stith, Assistant Chief Chris McDaniel, Captain Skipper Weston, Lieutenant Curt Gibbons, Engineer Amanda Hawver, Firefighters Jody Cox, Jamie Howard, and John Gypin. Volunteer Fire and Rescue: Chris Gypin, Anthony Stith Jr., Sam Stith, Kevin Newman, Lewis White, Thomas Smith, Danny Blankenship, Randy Robinson, Huggie Hindman, Vincent Sottile, Kevin Townsend, Jeff Woodard, Kathy Rawers, Ark Chiola, Red Wood, Michael Beard, and Mark Hylton.

Amanda Hawver, an Engineer with the Sullivan’s Island Fire Department, accepts recognition for her part in the rescue of three lives during the July 9 -13 period, when two people died and approximately 12 were rescued. The Town’s Police, Fire, and Volunteer & Rescue Personnel were all rewarded for their roles with separate Town resolutions.

September 4, 2009

Seel’s on Sullivan’s is one Good Neighbor Provided by the SC Restaurant Association

Harry Seel (right) receives the Good Neighbor Award from the SC REstaurant Association

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n August 17, the South Carolina Hospitality Association announced that two Charleston area restaurants were selected as the South Carolina Restaurant Neighbor Award winners.  Both outstanding restaurants are in the running for the national Restaurant Neighbor Award, a program by the National Restaurant Association that recognizes restaurants that exemplify the industry’s philanthropic spirit. The winners are: Seel’s on Sullivan’s and TBonz Restaurant Group. The Restaurant Neighbor Award was designed to raise awareness about the restaurant industry’s contributions in local communities across the country and to inspire other restaurant operators and owners to make even greater contributions in their communities.    Harry Seel's, owner of Seel’s on Sullivan’s, participation in community fund raising events stood out this year because of the extra efforts made  to help their

selected charities in a year of extreme financial need. The Restaurant Neighbor Award honors charitable contributions in four categories (small business, mid-size business, large business/national chain, and Cornerstone Humanitarian).  Seel’s on Sullivan’s will compete in the small business category while TBonz Restaurant Group will compete in the mid-size category.  Each participating state restaurant association selects winners in their respective states that will compete with winners from other states for the national award. The four national winners will each receive a $5,000 award to continue their community programs. They will be presented the awards this September in Washington D.C.  Both national and state winners will be recognized on the National Restaurant Association Web site. For more information on the award program, visit the National Restaurant Association’s Web site, www.restaurant.org/community. 

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September 4, 2009

Mozart in the South Provided by Chamber Music Charleston

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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 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 postconcert champagne and dessert reception brings the evening to a festive conclusion.

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Lucky Dog Name: Paddy Perkis (aka Paddy from the Pound, the Paddister) Owner(s): Linda and Mike Perkis Birthplace/hometown: Born in Charlotte, NC, but live on Sullivan's Island. Age: 16 ¾ (give or take) Veterinarian: Dr. Jay Goldsmith. He says I'm currently his oldest canine patient. Favorite food: I'm a very picky eater, always have been. Favorite treat: I love to go for rides in the golf cart. Favorite toy: I'm so beyond toys at my age. All I require is some food and a comfy bed. Why Paddy is a Lucky Dog: I am such a Lucky Dog! I’m at the beach every morning at sunrise. I get to see and visit with all of my dog friends, especially Waldo and Chester (you know who you are!). I am extremely well taken care of and pampered. I was adopted from the animal shelter in Charlotte, NC, 15 ½ years ago and now I reside full time on the beach. Life is good!

For more information, please visit www.MozartInTheSouth.org or call 763-4941.

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September 4, 2009

Congrats Poe Library Summer Reading winners! 

(top left) Young Adult winner Katie Woodberry, a 10th grader at Wando High School. (above) Community of Readers Winner Ailsa McNaught, a 7 year old second grader at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School (shown with brother, Euan). (left) Summer Reading Branch winner Samantha Smith, an 8 year old third grader at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School (shown here on the left with her family).

Eye Spy Do you know what this is? Kids, send your guess for this week’s Eye Spy to info@ luckydognews.com 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.

Congratulations to Jackson McQueeney for guessing the IOP Connector in the August 21 issue! Send your guess for this week's Eye Spy to: [email protected]

New SIES library is Exemplary By Deborah Palmer

PHOTOS BY: Deborah Palmer

PHOTOS BY: Poe Library

As part of Charleston County School District’s library modernization project, Sullivan’s Island Elementary received $5,000 worth of new library books to support the school’s science and social studies curriculum.   These books replaced old and dated titles, which helped to bring the library’s collection up to the highest rating of Exemplary. www.islandeyenews.com

September 4, 2009

These reports were provided by the Sullivan’s Island Police Department for the month of July: July 4, 2009: While on patrol, an officer found a beach bag with personal belongings in it. The bag was placed in Lost and Found. July 5, 2009: A vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. While conducting the stop, it was learned that the driver’s license was suspended because of insurance cancellation. The driver verified this, was written a citation and the vehicle was towed. July 5, 2009: A complainant reported that someone entered his vehicle while he was visiting the beach and removed items, including credit cards. The cards had been used at different stores.

Police Blotter they had found a set of car keys that had been sitting on a bench for some time and no one had been around the chair. Officers began searching for the owner of the keys and the vehicle to which they belonged. The next morning, a body (later identified as the owner of the vehicle) was located on Folly Beach. The cause of death was determined by the medical examiner as drowning.

July 10, 2009: A complainant reported that they had put a friend, who very intoxicated, to bed and when they returned to check on him he was gone. A search by the police and fire departments were unsuccessful. A call to the complainant later on revealed that the missing person had been found; he had gotten up and walked to a friend’s house.

July 7, 2009: A complainant reported that someone entered her unlocked vehicle while it was parked in her yard. The subject removed a briefcase.

July 10, 2009: Officers observed a vehicle backing up at a high rate of speed and then striking the stop sign at Station 18. As the officer approached, the driver got out of the vehicle and started yelling at him. The officer tried to calm her down, which she did, but she continued to yell and scream at the officers and her story kept changing. The driver was arrested and lodged into the Charleston County jail.

July 9, 2009: Officers received reports of a missing person. Witness reported that she and a friend were swimming and were pulled out by the currents. The witness was rescued and search efforts were conducted for the victim.

July 10, 2009: A complainant reported that his credit card was being used in New Jersey. A report was taken and forwarded to the jurisdiction in New Jersey. The complainant was also advised to contact the card company.

July 9, 2009: A complainant reported that

July 10, 2009: A complainant reported that he observed a subject on his back porch. The complainant confronted the subject and the subject ran off and officers were unable to locate him. The complainant reported that his screen and window had been damaged in the incident.

July 6, 2009: A complainant reported that she was missing her diamond wedding ring from her residence.

July 11, 2009: A complainant reported that a subject had keyed his fender and wrote over the entire body of his vehicle with soap. July 11, 2009: While on patrol on the beach, an officer observed a subject with a beer. The officer stopped and, in speaking with the subject and the three other subjects who were with the first subject, learned that all were under age, in possession of fake IDs and in possession of marijuana. The subjects were arrested and lodged in the Charleston County jail. July 12, 2009: While checking the school, an officer found that someone had broken a window. July 15, 2009: While checking on a report of an intoxicated person, an officer found a female slumped over in a vehicle. While checking the female, it was learned that she had been drinking and was intoxicated. She also had blood around her knee area. First responders were summoned to the scene and the female was checked out. She was arrested www.islandeyenews.com

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and lodged in Charleston County jail. July 15, 2009: An officer assisted Mount Pleasant Police with serving a Trespass Notice on a subject at a residence. July 18, 2009: Officers were dispatched to an intoxicated driver leaving a restaurant. The vehicle was located and the person’s driving was observed. The driver was arrested, processed, and lodged into the Charleston County jail. July 18. 2009: Officers were investigating a fireworks call on the beach which had resulted in a fire. While they were assisting the fire department, a subject at a nearby residence was yelling from a porch. After the fire was out, the officer went to the house and spoke to the subject. The subject was uncooperative, so he was arrested and lodged into the Charleston County jail. July 19, 2009: Officers were dispatched to an accident. While investigating the accident it was learned that one of the drivers was intoxicated. The driver was arrested, processed, and lodged into the Charleston County jail. July 19, 2009: An Officer received a report of an intoxicated man getting into a vehicle and attempting to drive off. As the officer arrived in the area, he observed the vehicle. The officer followed the vehicle to establish a history and then stopped the vehicle. The driver was arrested, processed, and lodged into the Charleston County jail. July 21, 2009: A complainant reported that she was watching a neighbor’s house and had seen a vehicle at the residence that she did not recognize. After investigation, it was learned that a cousin of the homeowner drove the vehicle and it was ok for him to be there. July 22, 2009: Officers responded to a report of a domestic dispute. On arrival, the officer learned that the husband and wife were arguing and the husband had grabbed the wife and pushed her. The husband was arrested and lodged into the Charleston County jail. July 26, 2009: While working the business district, an officer observed a physical disturbance. After breaking up the fight it was learned that one of the persons involved was an employee who was trying to eject the two subjects for fighting. One of the subjects struck the employee and they began to fight. The subjects were arrested and lodged into the Charleston County jail. July 26, 2009: A vehicle was observed with a vehicle registration violation. The vehicle stopped on the side of the road and as the officer approached, he observed one subject lighting something like a cigarette and when he saw the officer, he threw it in the back of the vehicle. The officer could smell burnt marijuana. The driver consented to a search of the vehicle and the officer found marijuana. The subjects were cited and released. July 28, 2009: A complainant reported that the tires of his construction trailer had been vandalized. The complainant believed that an employee who he had terminated might have vandalized the tires.

22 IOP Council from page 2 consecutive renewals, and each year will run from October 1 – September 30. Councilman Duffy expressed concern over the length of the contract, asking if the City had an “out” written into it if the new leasee did not work out. City Administrator Linda Lovvorn Tucker stated that, though it would be possible to include a City side “out” in the agreement, they would have to start over with the negotiations, so she was advised against it. However, Tucker cited a previous instance where the City and a leasee were able to come to a reasonable agreement in negotiating out of a lease, “So we do have a good track record,” said Tucker. Councilman Duffy reiterated that it would give him serious heartburn to agree to a 15 year lease and stated that he would “just like it to be balanced”. “I can’t support this,” he said. The motion passed 8 to 1. Public Safety report Councilman Buckhannon recounted the basic minutes of the last Public Safety meeting, noting that Jeff Jacobs and Sandy Stone’s discussed the “rules” signage in rentals, and that EcoThon organizer Brett Carlson attended the meeting in order to publicly thank the City for their participation in this year’s EcoThon. The committee also discussed a request to require sprinklers in new buildings, but found that, since the State does not have such a law in place, the motion could not be adopted. Buckhannon thanked Palmetto Custom Carts for their donation of the new Low Speed Vehicle to the Police Department, stating that the “green” vehicle will “be used throughout the island”. In further police news, Buckhannon noted that the City has been asked to participate in Charleston County’s Metro Marine Patrol Unit. Participation would be of no expense to the City and would allow City police personnel to further assist the County in marine situations. Subject to the City attorney’s approval, the

September 4, 2009 Council unanimously approved the City’s participation in the program. The final two items addressed the City’s regular re-adoption of it’s Public Safety policy, which was approved unanimously, and the reduction of the speed limit on Palm Blvd. between Breach Inlet and the Connector to 35 mph. The speed limit reduction was briefly discussed and Police Chief Buckhannon pointed out that, even though the reduced speed limit was acceptable for Low Speed Vehicles, the LSVs would not be allowed to travel Palm Blvd. as it is designated a “primary road”. The speed reduction resolution was passed unanimously. Upcoming events for the Public Safety Department include the official ribbon cutting for the new Public Safety building on J. C. Long Blvd, which will take place at 5:30pm on September 25. Rules for rentals placards Although Councilman Buckhannon suggested that the discussion over whether or not to accept the most recent redesign of the rental rules signage be postponed until the special Short Term Rentals meeting on September 16, Council members Barbara Bergwerf, Michael Loftus and Brian Duffy asked that they hold the discussion that night. As Loftus pointed out, “We’ll be discussing a whole umbrella of issues at the Short Term Rentals meeting, Sandy [Stone] was very enthusiastic [about the signs] at the last meeting … now he’s saying they won’t work. Jeff Jacobs did a great job and that’s why I thought we should go through with it.” Councilman Taylor remarked that waiting three weeks wouldn’t be that big of a deal, stating that if the signs were to “have teeth”, they should be done right and “not rushed through like they’re doing in Washington.” The Council voted to go into an executive meeting and, after a twenty five minute discussion, motioned that the “yellow” rental notice sign be placed in

a conspicuous location within 15 feet of the rental structure. The resolution was turned down 4 to 5, with Council members Carol Rice, Dee Taylor, Ryan Buckhannon and Martin Bettelli voted against. The signs will be discussed during the Short Term Rental meeting, which will take place on September 16 at 5:30pm in Council Chambers. Public Works Councilman Bettelli read through the Public Works minutes from last meeting, noting that the department report for July recorded the highest debris collection number they’d ever seen. Edy’s Construction is entering its fifth year of the five year drainage plan, and they have completed 25th Avenue between 26th and 27th Avenue. He noted that they cleaned out a considerable amount of firework debris during July. Bids on the drainage project between 54th and 57th avenue have been received. Bettelli also noted that a resident had called in last month and reported that they had seen a contractor dumping their construction debris on a vacant lot. “If anyone sees this kind of activity, please report it to the Police Department immediately,” Bettelli urged. During the County Transportation Committee meeting, the City received $100,000 toward the drainage project. Of interest, he noted, was that the City partially received the funds because they had been actively working on the project. Finally, Bettelli noted that Cameron Blvd. is being resurfaced in several sections, which has caused noticeable black tire marks along the road leading to the Connector. “We’re not drag racing,” he smiled. “They’ve promised to come back and clean it up.” Recreation Council member Carol Rice reported that the Recreation Department has been very busy all summer with Piccolo Spoleto, Camp Summershine, Wee Camp, A.J. Basketball Camp and several other day camps and activities. She noted that soccer registration is starting soon and that the Beach Run in early August was a huge success, welcoming 285 participants to the event. She also noted that the Recreation Department and City Hall had both suffered from lightning strikes this past month, but the damage has been repaired. The next big event for the Recreation Department is Wellness Day, which will be held on Thursday, September 17. “There will be lots of good information,” she said. “It should be a really fabulous event.” Blood work will be offered for $25 during the event. Personnel Committee Councilman Ralph Piening noted that there are several openings

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on City boards and commissions which have been advertised extensively. Peining encouraged residents to submit their application for consideration. He also stated that he was happy to announce that the evaluations for City Administrator Linda Lovvorn Tucker had been received from Council and they all stated that she was doing an excellent job. Safety Sweepstakes winners for this past month are Rhonda Gibbons from the Building Department, Russell Roper from Public Works, Eric Bolen from the Fire Department and Fran Overdorf from the Police Department. Real Property Committee Mayor Cronin reported that July was great for the Marina and even though August was a little slower, the Marina was doing well. Also at the Marina, the Morgan Creek Grille restaurant is now offering valet service, which the Mayor stated is doing very well. As for beach restoration and sand fencing, he noted that they are currently discussing the placement of the fencing with Coastal Science and Engineering and found that it will cost less than the City expected: $5,900 instead of the projected $10,000. Mayor Cronin asked that the Council approve the expenditure of $6,000 for sand fencing and vegetation, noting that the sand fencing would be set in place in the fall, but the vegetation would not be planted until the spring. Council approved the expenditure unanimously. Second reading of Ordinance 2009-12: Leasing of one Pumper Fire Truck The ordinance was passed unanimously. First reading of Ordinance 2009-13: Amending the Comprehensive Plan for the City of the Isle of Palms Since this was the first reading of Ordinance 2009-13, any changes by Council members to the current Comprehensive Plan were asked to be submitted to Douglas Kerr before second reading. The Ordinance must be passed before the end of 2009 to stay in keeping with State requirements. Miscellaneous upcoming events Plant-a-Palm: Will be held on the anniversary of Hugo, September 21, at 9am on 21 Avenue. Meet the Candidates: Open forum discussion with Isle of Palms Council candidates at the Recreation Center on October 28 at 7pm.

September 4, 2009

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Old School brings home the gold By Dylan Sharek

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n first glance, the Crosby Family team appeared out of place at the 11th Annual Isle of Palms Half Rubber Tournament this past Saturday, August 22. In a field dominated by college students and thirtysomethings, the team’s median age was 58 years old. Larry Crosby, 68, is the second oldest member of the team behind his brother Ken, 69. Larry has broad shoulders, a wiry, strong frame, and a jock’s smile. It was easy to imagine him when he was young, most likely resembling a cross between a tall wide receiver and a hard-nosed, old school baseball player. And watching him on the field against people half his age, it was apparent that the ingrained, un-teachable muscle memory of sport still lingered in Crosby’s limbs. “We all played half rubber as teenagers … and now we’ll play once in a while on holidays. We really just don’t want to be a doormat,” Crosby said. And while the Crosby’s weren’t topping the scores during the 24-team tournament, they held their own, winning their first game 7-3 before losing their second. The Crosby’s moderate success, however, is a testament to the spirit and concept of half rubber.

Competitors at the 2009 Isle of Palms Half Rubber Tournament

It’s puzzling that the sport hasn’t become more prevalent outside of the Lowcountry. “There’s nothing like this in Columbia. We just heard about it last night,” said Tony Hanks, a first-time spectator. Mr. Hanks and his wife, Donna, traveled to the Isle of Palms Recreation Center to watch their son, Tony Hanks, Jr., participate in his first-ever half rubber game with the Vanilla Gorillas team. While Hanks, Jr. seemed to grasp

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the game from the outset (six hits, four home runs, and one grand slam in two games), it admittedly took his parents a little more time. “I don’t quite understand it all yet,” smiled Mrs. Hanks. Mr. Hanks added, “They described it to us back home, but you really have to see it to understand it.” And as the heavy sun continued to beat down on the 12 fields housing the tournament, the Hanks began to commiserate

with the 75 or so other spectators huddled under a row of pop-up tents set up under the Center’s tree line. “I really like it, but it gets long,” said Mrs. Hanks. As the day wore on and the field thinned, the odd sound of rubber bluntly popping against skin became less frequent. Foul balls and ankle-to-head-tobackstop pitches fell innocently to the ground as the families of eliminated teams dispersed, leaving empty the vast areas of the once fan-packed field. The exhausted competitors, burnt and sapped of energy, plugged away despite their growing weariness. In the double elimination tournament, the Crosby Family team and the Vanilla Gorillas were eliminated in the third round, and in the final, team Old School (comprised of David Smith, Eddie Cornwell, Lee Martin and Jimmy Mazyck) ousted 3 Dawgs And a Tiger, effectively beginning their reign as Isle of Palms half rubber champions. Congratulations to team Old School, the 2009 Half Rubber champs!

Register for Mt Pleasant Half Rubber World Series

he Mount Pleasant Recreation Department is pleased to announce open registration for its annual Half Rubber World Series. The 5th annual event will be held at the Park West Recreation Complex in Mount Pleasant on Saturday, September 19. Teams of all experience levels and from all areas of the country are encouraged to sign up for the World Series tournament. Spectators are also encouraged to come out, watch the fun and learn about this unique, traditionally Southern sport. A captains’ meeting will take

place at 8:30am, with games commencing at 9am. Cash prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place teams. Teams must consist of three to four players and players are required to be at least 16 years of age. Registration is required by September 14 and fees are $20 per individual, which includes a tournament t-shirt and lunch during the event. Half rubber balls will be provided for tournament play. Interested participants are invited to register for the world series at any Mount Pleasant

Recreation Department facility or download an entry form from the recreation department page at www.townofmountpleasant. com (direct link is www. mtpleasantrec.com/ downloads/hr09.pdf). The Park West Recreation Complex is located at 1251 Park West Boulevard, off Highway 17 North in Mount Pleasant. For more information on the tournament, contact Scott Koth at 884-2528 or email skoth@townofmountpleasant. com. Also visit www. townofmountpleasant.com. PHOTO BY Sarah Reynolds

Dylan Cook with The Punishers team throws a fierce pitch to a batter from the 3 Dawgs and a Tiger team during the 2007 Mount Pleasant Half Rubber World Series. The 2009 event is set for September 19.

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