Since May 2005

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CHARLESTON, SC
POSTAL PATRON
PERMIT NO 437
Volume 13 Issue 10 FREE September 1, 2017

Sullivans Island Isle of Palms Goat Island Dewees Island

Sandy Ferencz not

seeking re-election
CONTRIBUTED BY SANDY FERENCZ
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

F
or the first time since 2011, the residents of the Isle
of Palms will go to the polls and have more candidates
than positions from which to fill the available seats.
November 7 is a pivotal opportunity to drastically change the
composition of the Council and the Mayoral position.
To best attain this goal, I will not seek reelection to my seat
in the general election. All my efforts will be spent to assure
that fiscal responsibility, information transparency and new
energy is injected into local government through the election
of at least three NEW Council members and a new Mayor.
The 6-3 voting block which has plagued this Council over the
last four years of my tenure must be rebalanced so decisions
can be made based on facts, not cronyism. New members will
seek information with new eyes, ears, and energy, working to
restore an Island of the residents and for the residents.

Two for the record

Smith continues on page 3

Randy Bell L O C A L FA M I LY B R E A K S R E C O R D S
announces candidacy AT S C G O V E R N O R S C U P

for IOP Council

BY CHRISTINE JEANNE
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

T
OUR ISLAND, OUR FUTURE he local Isle of Palms
boat crew of the Gryphon
has victory under their
CONTRIBUTED BY RANDY BELL belts this summer. The 60-foot
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS Hatteras took home three wins
including Outstanding Billfish
Married to my wife of 41 years Mimi, we are parents to Boat, Outstanding Billfish
identical twin daughters, and now have four grandchildren. We Conservationist, Outstanding
purchased our home on Isle of Palms in 2013 after deciding to Youth Angler, Chandler Griffin,
finally end our 25-year habit of contributing vacation dollars from the thrilling South Carolina
to the local economy. Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, I Governors Cup Billfishing Series.
have lived in New Jersey (Rutgers Graduate), Ohio, Florida, and Owner of the Gryphon, Colby
Texas. With a career spanning over 40 years, I have served as Griffin and his boat crew, began
a corporate officer in multiple publicly traded companies, as the series strong by releasing
well as CEO of a venture funded, successful high technology three blue marlin, to win the
start-up. Prior to retirement in 2014, I most recently served series-opening billfishing event at
the Bohicket Marina Invitational
Billfish Tournament in May.
Williamson continues on page 5
During the series finale, at
the Edisto Invitational Billfish
Tournament, Gryphon had
completed a record-breaking
series at the Governors Cup
championship, a truly amazing
accomplishment for the local Isle
of Palms family. This was the first
major event that Gryphon has ever
won. Two records were broken for
the boat with the highest points
ever, as well as the Jr. Angler
record, said Colby Griffin.
We were excited to have a
prosperous and safe fishing year,
said Griffin. It took effort and
dedication from everyone on our
Gryphon continues on page 5

INSIDE THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

ROADTRIP SOUTH ... Pg 8 ECLIPSE HAPPENS ... Pg 16 TURTLES IN A STORM ... Pg 17

 CIVIC
2 September 1, 2017

Sullivans provides Air Meducare

coverage for all residents
S T Y R O F O A M B A N , F I R E S TAT I O N R E PA I R S D I S C U S S E D AT A U G U S T C O U N C I L M E E T I N G

BY KATY CALLOWAY
THE ISLAND EYE NEWS EDITOR

T
he regularly scheduled
meeting of the Sullivans
Island Town Council was
called to order at 6 p.m. on Aug
15.
Comments from the
community opened the meeting,
with residents expressing
concerns about recent flooding,
particularly at Station 22
between Atlantic and Pettigrew.
Mr. Guckenberger, addressing
Council, thought perhaps
the excessive flooding is an
unforeseen consequence of the
work being done on the sewer
system in the area. Mayor ONeill
responded stating the issue falls
under the purview of the Public
Facilities Committee, which may
provide information during its
report.
Everett Presson was next
to address Council asking if
it would, Begin the process
of banning Styrofoam coolers,
containers and cups on the
beach and at point of sale within
town limits. Presson cited other
coastal communities that have
initiated the ban with success,
including Folly Beach, where
Styrofoam, plastic bags and
balloons have all been banned.
According to Presson, The [Folly]
businesses got on board. There
has been a marked reduction
in both Styrofoam and litter in
general because the community
is becoming more aware of the
problem. Presson asked Council
to either appoint a blue ribbon
committee so that citizens
may look at the problem and
propose suggestions, or have the
appropriate Town committee take
60 days to assess and respond.
Pressons plea was followed by
Kate Jeffries, a 16 year-old Porter
Gaud student who took a break
from completing her summer
school work to address Council
and ask that it also consider a
ban on plastic bags, a campaign
her older sister had begun two
years ago. Jeffries comments
were followed by audience
applause.
Dr. Nicole Elko then presented
the results of the 2017 Beach
Monitoring Survey that her
company, Coastal Consulting,
performed for the Town. This is
the second year for the survey,
performed in June, prior to the
start of hurricane season. Dr.
Elko concluded that Sullivans
Island has, very healthy, wide
beaches with lots of sand on
them. Welcome news to those
who have beachfront property.
The surveys will provide baseline
and ongoing data to measure
changes in the shoreline,
including erosion patterns and
sandbar growth.
The Mayors Report included
the Towns plans for the eclipse
on Aug. 21, outlining safety
measures that were being
implemented to manage the
crowds and traffic.
There were no Boards and
Commissions Reports after
Zoning Administrator, Joe
Henderson revealed it had been
a very quite month.
Moving on to Committee
Reports, Jason Blanton,
Comptroller, reported on behalf
of the Finance Committee that
the new financial software is up
and running. The June financial
statements were reviewed and it
was reported that the 2016 audit
is ongoing and will probably
continue through the end of
August.
Councilmember Mark Howard
reported on a very productive
meeting of the Public Facilities
Committee as was evidenced by
the number of motions he was
about to bring to Council. The
Committee has been looking at
stormwater and will be dealing
Council continues on page 3

www.islandeyenews.com
7September 1, 2017
Council continues from page 2
with it as a separate issue at its
next meeting. Councilmember
Smith added that the committee
is monitoring 17 different sites
for stormwater management
and various grants are being
considered to address certain
areas, as well as a grant
to conduct an island wide
engineering study to evaluate the
interconnectedness of basins.
Howard followed with a motion
to prepare a Request for Proposals
for a suitable storage structure
for department equipment, and
site recommendations to address
department needs. The motion
passed unanimously.
Howards second motion
was to prepare an RFP for fire
station maintenance repairs.
Councilmember Smith clarified
that maintenance included
critical needs and that a wholesale
renovation would be considered
at a time when Council was
in a better financial position.
A number of concerns were
discussed, including the cost of
materials, need for sprayfoam
insulation and window upgrades.
Councilmember Clark remarked,
Ferencz continues from cover
I want to thank each of you
who emailed, called, stopped
me on the street to express your
concerns, or came to Council
Chambers and expressed your
love for our island. I ask that
those of you who have supported
me these four years please listen
with open minds to this new
group of candidates. They are
our pathway to returning the
emphasis of Council back to
the residents needs rather than
tourists wants.
Respectfully,
SANDY FERENCZ
4 SEAHORSE COURT
ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. 29451
Recycle - WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 - Recycle
Monday September 4
Labor Day
City Offices CLOSED
Isle of Palms
843.886.6428
www.iop.net
Tuesday, September 5
Board of Zoning Appeals
5:30 p.m.
1207 Palm Boulevard
Wednesday, September 6
Public Works Committee
11 a.m.
1207 Palm Boulevard
Personnel Committee
3 p.m.
1207 Palm Boulevard
We have not maintained this
building like it should have been
maintained. The motion passed
unanimously.
A third motion was presented
to accept the old bridge pier study
by Kimley-Horn & Associates,
Inc. The study examined the
old bridge landing at Station
9, which Howard would like
to see preserved from erosion
and stabilized for safety and
walkability. Councilmember
Smith clarified that the purpose
of the Kimley-Horn study was to
determine if the old bridge was
safe. He continued, I am not
willing to accept it is inherently
unsafe as it exists today. I am
not willing to accept that there is
a severe erosion issue. Howard
tabled the motion, for the time
being.
Howards fourth and final
motion was to enter into
negotiations for a lease for
the old town hall with the
American Military Museum.
Councilmember Clark provided
background on the Museum,
which is currently located inside
the Citadel Mall in West Ashley.
Numerous concerns were raised
by nearly all councilmembers
including: the need for rezoning,
the forfeited potential for
revenue, (the Museum lease
would be $1 annually), the
displaying of military artifacts
amid a national concern over
Confederate relics, and legal
ramifications of potentially
inadequate mold mitigation.
Mayor ONeil requested a more
complete proposal. The motion
was tabled.
Councilmember Langley
reported that the Land Use and
Natural Resources Committee will
be having an open house on Oct.
18 for the Town Commons plan.
She added that the committee
will be discussing polystyrene
(Styrofoam) at their next meeting.
Councilmember Smith stated
the next meeting of the Water
and Sewer Committee will be
CIVIC CALENDAR
Monday, September 11
Real Property Committee
9:30 a.m.
1207 Palm Boulevard
Public Safety Committee
2 p.m.
1207 Palm Boulevard
Wednesday, September 13
Planning Commission
4:30 a.m.
1207 Palm Boulevard
Sullivan's Island
843.883.3198
www.sullivansisland-sc.com
Tuesday, September 5
Municipal Court
3 p.m.
2056 Middle Street
dedicated to the presentation of
the feasibility studies between
the 100 and 500 year plan for
the new sewer plant. It will give
us definite directions as to where
were going and when we are
going to start work on the plant,
he said. Smith then reported
that Charleston Water & Sewer
needs to move water to Mount
Pleasant via a subsurface water
line using Sullivans Island land
to supply that capacity. This is
not a contractual matter right
now, this is simply a matter of
allowing them to come out with
a smaller truck to take some
core samples with a small bucket
loader and dig a couple of areas,
Smith said. The samples will be
taken from an area behind Stith
Park and another at the old dump
site. The sampling would take
one day at each site. A motion for
geotechnical sampling to assess
viability of two possible routes
for a subsurface waterline was
approved unanimously.
On behalf of the Public
Safety Committee, Andy Benke
informed Council that the Town
is now providing Air Meducare
membership coverage for all
island residents to receive
benefits. If an islander has a life
threatening or limb-threatening
incident, residents may be
transported by air to the hospital.
Residents will be receiving letters
by mail from Air Meducare
outlining coverage and upgrade
options. Kiawah, Seabrook and
Isle of Palms currently offer this
service to residents.
The last report was from the
Recreation Committee. Given by
Councilmember Sarah Church
it ended the meeting with a
highlight. Both parks are now
receiving routine maintenance,
and Poe Park is awaiting all new
playground equipment, which
should be delivered any day.
With no further business, the
meeting was adjourned. The next
meeting is scheduled for Tuesday,
Sept. 19 at 6 p.m.
Monday, September 11
Municipal Court
6 p.m.
2056 Middle Street
Tuesday, September 12
Municipal Court
3 p.m.
2056 Middle Street
Wednesday, September 13
Comprehensive Plan Public
Workshop
5 p.m.
2056 Middle Street
Planning Commission
6:30 p.m.
2056 Middle Street
Thursday, September 14
Board of Zoning Appeals
6 p.m.
2056 Middle Street
3
Lucky Dog Publishing
o f SC, LL C
Publisher of the
The Island Eye News
and The Island Connection
Lynn Pierotti
lynn@luckydognews.com
publisher
Katy Calloway
katy@luckydognews.com
managing editor
Jennifer Tuohy
jennifer@luckydognews.com
contributing editor
Swan Richards
senior graphic designer
Alejandro Ferreyros
graphic designer
Lori McGee 843-614-0901
advertising executive
Christian LeBlanc
christian@luckydognews.com
social media
Steve Rosamilia
photographer
Meredith Poston
Mimi Wood
staff writers
CONTRIBUTORS
Sandy Ferencz
Randy Bell
Christine Jeanne
Senator Chip Campsen
Barbara Zia
Carol Antman
Dawn Davis
Christine Messick
Mary Pringle
Fanio King
Susan Middaugh
Dimi Matouchev
Cover photo of turtle
by Barb Bergwerf
PUBLISHED BY
Lucky Dog Publishing
of South Carolina, LLC
P.O. Box 837
Sullivans Island, SC 29482
843.886.NEWS
Submit your letters to the editor to:
info@luckydognews.com
DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 6
for our SEPTEMBER 15 issue
The Island Eye News, a wholly owned
subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of SC
LLC, is a free, independent newspaper
published every two weeks and is for and
about the Isle of Palms, Sullivans 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. Contribu-
tions of information, pictures and articles
are welcomed and are used according to
space limitations and news value and can-
not be returned except by special request.
Op-ed articles and letters to the editor do
not necessarily reflect the opinion of
Lucky Dog News, or its writers.
All advertising rates are listed at:
www.islandeyenews.com under advertising
September 1, 2017
Bell continues from cover
as served as a Vice President,
Information Management at
Hewlett-Packard. Currently, I
am now entering my fourth year
as a volunteer Executive Mentor
to our returning U.S. military
veterans.
Our Beach is a precious asset
and deserves full attention as the
centerpiece of campaign issues.
Our City Council operates today
without a responsible emergency
plan. The protection of our
beach is reliant on presumed
outside funding in the event of a
catastrophic event. I was not here
for Hurricane Hugo, but have
spent a considerable portion of
my life living in hurricane zones.
Recovery is never easy, and as
we look at City finances one
should ask, How important are
our beaches to both our quality
of life and the financial existence
of the Isle of Palms? Todays
2017/2018 beach restoration
budget requires Wild Dunes
homeowner contributions, local
and state taxes, plus federal
funding, yet still requires loan
financing by the city. This is not a
sustainable plan for emergencies.
We can do better.
Balancing tourism and
visitation with appropriate
consideration of residential
quality of life is a challenge.
While we need tourism to
sustain our economy, our ability
to absorb its impact is finite.
Surrounding communities are
growing at a furious pace, yet
our limited geography remains
static. Visitation demand
will grow proportionate to the
surrounding population growth.
How do we achieve the correct
balance while supporting our
local businesses? We desperately
need to address with citizen
and business engagement more
effective planning considering
our islands finite geography and
peak visitation capacity.
Public Safety has direct linkage
to the exploding demands of
visitation. Traffic, parking, and
crime all have root cause in
visitation that will not change
near-term. While we debate these
issues of safety daily during
tourist season, we can do a better
job listening and addressing
resident concerns.
Foremost in many of our
minds is the IOP Marina and
the significant vote that will
take place this voting cycle.
Myself, like most residents
value our City owned marina. I
have been a vocal critic of this
majority Councils decision to
cede control of the Marina to its
operator with a no bid, thirty (30)
year lease that expires in 2045.
I stand by my public statements
that this was irresponsible.
Without the transference of S.C.
Accommodations and Hospitality
Taxes, IOP Marina would be
unsustainable. In the current
fiscal year, IOP will take in
$406,000 in lease revenue, yet
move $ 803,000 from tourism
taxes to offset marina expense.
Council needs to recognize in the
5
(Chucky) Moore, mate Bryce Bell,
Gryphon continues from cover
mate Mark McDevitt, Ted McNair,
Brian OQuin, Jeffrey Mitchell,
team to win the series. Looking
Ross Miller, Brad Kicklighter and
back through the records
Michael Krivohlavek.
available in the SC Governors
The Gryphon offers year round
cup website, the win for an Isle
offshore and near shore charters,
of Palms team has not presented
and additional information can
itself for at least 17 years, and we
be found on their website at
are proud of that accomplishment
GryphonSportFishing.com.
as well.
The South Carolina Governors
The Gryphon victories are
Cup has many important benefits
a family affair. Son, Chandler
for South Carolina Fishing. The
Griffin assisted with the record
Series places emphasis on a tag
breaking 7,475 points, achieved
and release fishing model, which
by releasing eight blue marlin and
has increased South Carolinas
thirteen sailfish during the five
billfish statistics from 90
series tournaments. Chandler
percent mortality to 90 percent
caught 5 blue marlin and 12
released. Recreational anglers are
sailfish to contribute to the
Randy Bell. recruited to voluntarily tag their
teams total billfish releases. His
PHOTO PROVIDED catch for scientific study. Another
personal contribution accounted
context of fiscal responsibility important accomplishment of the
for 5400 of the 7,475 points
that the Marina was purchased SC fishing series was supporting
that the team accumulated.
to allow IOP residents access the passage of a law banning the
The previous record for a youth
to the water. Any investment sale of billfish in South Carolina.
during a Governors Cup series
beyond general maintenance was 1400 points. With Chandler
should have strong resident celebrating his fifteenth birthday
consideration. Transparent and during the series, he has several
full disclosure of all relevant IOP angler achievements already.
Marina facts, both good and The awards continued with
bad, in advance of this election Chandler winning first-place as
to allow residents the information the Outstanding Youth Angler
to make an informed decision is in the Governors Cup series
essential. this year after a second place
On fiscal responsibility, finish in 2016. Chandler was
operating within a balanced the top Youth Angler in three of
budget and not borrowing the five tournaments in 2017.
against our future must be At Chandlers young age, we can
a guiding principle. Fiscal expect big things from this local
Conservatism does not mean boy and family.
that the City should not provide Additional Gryphon crew
Chandler Griffin with his 2017 SC
for its citizens needs; however, members are Captain Charles Governors Cup awards.
it does require a complete and
transparent understanding of
the citys ability to pay our debts.
Events beyond our control will
ultimately cripple our financial
health without responsible fiscal
policy. Going forward, we must
be a Council that prioritizes
needs versus desires, and
builds financial contingencies
for unforeseen emergencies,
catastrophic weather events, and
economic downturns. Balancing
our budget must be the highest
of priorities.
Government transparency &
citizen engagement: We need
to increase citizen engagement
while presenting all relevant facts
of key issues, and stop acting as
if Council Knows Best. The lack
of transparency today is a central
tenant in my candidacy.
Those that attend IOP City
Council meetings know that
I have advocated vocally on
issues affecting our island. On
Public Safety, Fiscal/Budget
responsibility, the IOP Marina,
and resident quality of life as
priorities, I remain a vocal citizen
advocate with the IOP Council.
As you all hopefully get to know
me through this campaign, you
will find that I am very open
and direct, but I also know how
to compromise and act in the
best interest of all. I will not be
perfect; however, you have my
commitment to listen, engage,
and advocate while keeping in
mind it is Our Island and Our
Future that is being entrusted
to this next elected Isle of Palms
City Council.
www.islandeyenews.com
6
Why I voted against the Base Load Review Act
As a freshman senator I voted
against the now infamous Base
Load Review Act (BLRA) and urged
my colleagues to do likewise.
Unfortunately it wasnt so infamous
back then. I lost by a vote of 21
to 1 in the April 3, 2007, Senate
Judiciary Committee meeting. I
lost by an even larger margin via
voice vote on the Senate floor. My
disapprobation was so vehement
a former colleague recently
recounted it, now ten years later.
The BLRA has been instrumental
to the VC Summer Nuclear Plant
project undertaken by SCE&G
and Santee Cooper. It authorized
SCE&Gs nine rate increases
totaling almost 20% to fund plant
construction. Ten years and $9
billion later they recently pulled
the power plants proverbial plug.
The cost of completion has become
uneconomic.
SCE&G now seeks Public Service
Commission authorization under
the BLRA to abandon completion
of the plant and recoup $5 billion
from customers over 60 years.
Santee Cooper recently retracted
its most recent proposed rate
increase for now.
Shockingly, the utilities seem
to have just recently discovered
no critical construction path for
the plant was in place. So much
OPINION-EDITORIAL
for project management and
oversight. It is an unmitigated
disaster, enabled by the BLRA.
So how did the BLRA enable it all?
Before the BLRA utilities recouped
plant construction costs only after
plants were online. Customers paid
for plants they actually used. The
BLRA authorized utilities to charge
fees for construction costs during
construction. Customers pay for
plants they dont actually use, or
need. The need arises from people
migrating here in the future.
If all goes well the BLRAs
charge-as-you-go policy means
utilities pay less interest, earn
greater returns, and have less debt
on their balance sheet. Its a good
deal for utilities.
But its not a good deal for utility
customers. Ever-increasing BLRA
fees inflate monthly power bills. And
these fees dont build generating
capacity for the customers paying
them. Current customers already
fund generating capacity they use
through regular monthly power
bills. The BLRA fees are used to
build new generating capacity for
future customers for people who
dont live here yet.
So current customers pay twice.
Once through their regular rates
for generating capacity serving
them. And a second time through
BLRA fees for new capacity to
serve future customers. The first
BY SENATOR CHIP CAMPSEN
payment is reasonable. The second
is unconscionable.
How did BLRA lobbyists
respond to this argument? I
remember vividly because I found
it so offensive. They argued
utility interest expenses would be
lower if existing customers pay
construction costs for new capacity
to serve people who move here in
the future.
I responded, they were correct.
It is also correct that requiring
my neighbor to pay my home
construction costs would lower
my mortgage interest payments.
But that doesnt make it right.
And its not right to make South
Carolinians underwrite new power
generating capacity so that utilities
will pay less interest, and future
immigrants to the state will have
lower power bills.
The BLRA also shifts risk from
utility shareholders and creditors,
to customers. Compliance risk is
the risk regulatory enforcement
will materially impair a projects
economic viability. Performance
risk is the risk a project will
not be completed on time or on
budget due to mismanagement or
external factors. All projects have
compliance and performance risk,
especially nuclear power plants.
When I raised risk issues utility
lobbyists countered there was
little. The reactors were virtual
September 1, 2017
off-the-shelf, cookie-cutter
reactors entitled with substantial
regulatory approval. Now six years
behind schedule and billions over
budget, it appears that was not the
case.
I suggested a performance
bond to mitigate performance
risk. They countered it wasnt
necessary. They had a guarantee
from Westinghouse. We know how
that turned out. Westinghouse
is now bankrupt, taken down by
compliance and performance risk
associated with VC Summer and a
similar plant in Georgia.
This shifting of risk to customers,
when coupled with guaranteed
returns up to 11% on construction
costs, created a perverse incentive
to spend big dollars building risky
plants. The more utilities spend,
the more money they make.
Customers underwrite it all, even
if a project fails.
How did such a bill ever pass the
General Assembly? The principle of
concentrated benefits and diffuse
or abstruse costs. When the
benefits of a bill are significant and
concentrated in a few, beneficiaries
lobby the General Assembly
assiduously for its passage. When
costs are diffuse, abstruse, or
both, no one is motivated to lobby
against it. Members sense a lot of
support and no opposition. The
bill typically passes.
In this case utility lobbyists
descended upon the General
Assembly like the plague of locusts
in Exodus 10. And what of the
opposition? Instead of locusts, it
was crickets chirping. Opposition
was essentially nonexistent.
What should a lawmaker do
when the principle of concentrated
benefits and diffuse or abstruse
costs is in play? What he should
always do. Receive information
from lobbyists with a grain of
salt, realizing they are advocates.
Analyze the impact upon others,
even if you never hear from them
due to lack of awareness. Exercise
independent judgment as to is
what is fair, just and reasonable.
Then vote your conscience with
conviction.
Ten years ago I applied that
analytical paradigm and found
the BLRA woefully lacking. As
I made my case against the
BLRA in Judiciary Committee
I encountered opposition
approaching indignation. How
dare this freshman think he is
right, and everyone else is wrong!
Well, look whos indignant now candidates and issues (bit.ly/2vplj5A).
the citizens whose interests we are
elected to protect.
Senator Chip Campsen (R)
represents Charleston, Beaufort
and Colleton Counties in the South
Carolina Senate.
League of Women Voters
provides info on local
candidates
BY BARBARA ZIA
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
V
oting is the most powerful way to have
citizens voices heard, and it is the core of our
democracy. Votings a chance to stand up for
what matters most to citizens and have an impact
on the issues that affect them, their communities
and their futures.Informed voters are the key to
our democracy. Nationwide, the League of Women
Voters works year-round to register, inform and
mobilize voters. Our work especially seeks to
aid those from traditionally underrepresented
or underserved communities, including first-
time voters, non-college youth, new citizens,
minorities,and low-income Americans. The League
serves millions of voters throughVote411.org, our
one-stop election information hub.
The need to engage citizens in our democracy is
great. Voter registration rates are very high in our
area; yet only 67% of registered South Carolina
voters cast ballots in last Novembers election, and
turnout in local elections is often in single digits.
A recent Pew Charitable Trust report is pertinent:
one of the top reasons reported by registered
voters for not voting is lack of information about
Though 2017 is an off election year in South
Carolina, important local elections are set for
some Charleston area municipalities on November
7. And theres a special election to fill the S.C.
House District 113 seat (North Charleston and
Dorchester County).
LWV of the Charleston Area is proud to
7
provide reliable, nonpartisan, voter-friendly
information throughVote411.orgto prepare
Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester County
voters to participate in 2017 elections and
beyond.ThroughVote411.orgwe equip voters with
essential information about the election process
in South Carolina, including polling place hours
and locations, ballot information, absentee voting
rules, voter registration deadlines, ID requirements
and more.This year, LWVCA is launching a
new Vote411 feature: an online voter guide to
candidates. Candidates in the S.C. House District
113 race, (3 Democratic and 2 Republican), were
invited to respond to questions of importance to
district voters in advance of the Sept. 5primary.
Candidates running in local elections on Nov. 7
will also be invited to participate in the voter guide
atVote411.org.
LWVCA will be hosting candidate forums in
communities with elections on Nov. 7. These
forums are an opportunity for voters to meet
candidates and get straightforward answers to
their questions.
This is only a snapshot of strategies that LWVCA
is undertaking to empower all eligible citizens to
participate in our political system. Delivery of these
resources to a broad audience relies on community
collaboration. To learn more, please contact LWVCA
at 843.766.5416 orvote@lwvcharleston.org.
8
ROADTRIPS CHARLESTON
World-wide free tours
BY CAROL ANTMAN
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
I
really should have known about this
already. On the last day of my month-
long trip to Ecuador, I had one day to
explore Quito. The sprawling UNESCO World
Heritage city confused me. Where to begin?
Googling among the many tours and options
I stumbled upon Free Walking Tours. Free?
Whats the catch? I wondered. But reviewers
wrote about the guides passion, authenticity
and knowledge as they explored some great
placesthat we wouldn't have otherwise
come across. I figured I had nothing to lose.
I could just split off if it was a waste of time.
Apparently I was late to the game here
because at the appointed hour I was one of
42 travelers who assembled in the lobby of
a lively youth hostel. Two young local guys
welcomed us in excellent English. Half of us
went with Betto, a ponytailed Ecuadorian of
contagious energy. I was the only traveler from
the US although everyone spoke English. The
first thing he showed us was how to safely
cross a street. I wish I had learned it when
Id arrived: you look the driver in the eye and
give them a forceful thumbs-up. Magically,
the cars part like the Red Sea.
First stop was the citys central market.
Surrounded by towering mounds of tropical
produce, street food, heaps of roses and hooks
of fresh meat, Betto plucked out unfamiliar
fruits. He introduced us to babacoa which
resembles a papaya, a tomate de arbol also
called tamarillo and a naranilla that looked
like an orange until he cut it open to reveal its
green, bitter fruit. Suddenly more informed,
we ordered blended juices and took a few
photos. I was amused by some of the menu
translations that hung above the stalls:
Potatoes with booklet, Rice with leather example. Would you say that Ecuador
For three hours we walked through the
historic district as he told stories. Bettos
pride in his city was evident. Ecuador was
the first South American country to declare
independence from Spain. Theyve welcomed
400,000 Venezuelan refugees. Their instant
citizenship for immigrants includes free health
care and has made it the #1 place in the world
for US ex-pats according to International
Living Magazine. He spoke candidly about
the countrys political upheavals. Some of
IF YOU GO:
freetour.com
freewalkingtour.com
freetoursbyfoot.com
September 1, 2017
Mostly English speaking travelers gathered for the Free
walking tour of Quito.
its 44 presidents served only a few days or
months. One was air lifted out of the country
as thousands of demonstrators stormed the
palace. I was fascinated to learn the history
of the dollarization of the economy. Since
2000, US currency is the only legal tender
in the country, a controversial situation that
our country had a strong hand in creating.
After a coffee break, we sat on the steps of
a cathedral that was once an Incan temple.
For Incas, Quito was like Mecca, like
Jerusalem, Betto said. Because the city is
View of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Ecuador.
10,000 feet in altitude and at the widest point
on the planet, the solstice is particularly free walking tours in hundreds of cities all
evident here. There are no obstructions to the over the world. Even in Charleston. In Prague
suns rays and no shadows. Natives still blow they mix fantasy fairy-tale settings and
conch shells to commemorate it. All around modernity; in Poznan, Poland you can meet
us brightly clothed, indigenous Ecuadorians the citys fearless pranger and Bamber
mingled with tourists and businessmen as Lady; in New York you can choose from 30
past and present melded. free tours that cover everything from Harlem
I had the impression from my trip that to Ground Zero. There are pub crawls, bike
Ecuador was experiencing a surge of grass- tours, ghost stories, history and art tours
roots entrepreneurism and Betto was an all free. The mission is to make real local
culture and authentic, quality experiences
is prospering now? I asked him. A new easily accessible for more travelers, Freetour.
president had just been elected and people com says. A travelers review puts it this way:
were hopeful. Have you seen anybody Since I discovered the free tours, I do it every
sleeping in the streets while youve been time I travel and its always really interesting.
here? I hadnt. How many do you see in Now that I know, I will too.
your big cities? he responded. Point taken.
Free really means pay what you will. At Roadtrips Charleston highlights interesting
the end of the tour, Betto gently suggested destinations within a few hours drive of
that the usual tip was $10 to $20. The website Charleston, S.C. as well as more far flung
explained, the power is yours. You decide locales. Carol Antmans wanderlust is driven
what the tour was worth or what you can by a passion for outdoor adventure, artistic
afford, if anything. Almost everyone slipped experiences, cultural insights and challenging
a bill or two into his bag. With over 20 people
travel. For hot links, photographs and previous
on my tour and two tours a day, he probably
does well. I hope so. He certainly earned it. columns or to make comments please see
I was amazed to discover that there are www.peaksandpotholes.blogspot.com
PHOTOS BY CAROL ANTMAN
www.islandeyenews.com
7

.
September 1, 2017
900 volunteers
needed
BY CHRISTINE MESSICK
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
R
eading Partners South Carolina is
preparing for the 2017-18 school year
by recruiting community volunteers
to work directly in local schools, with
kindergarten to fifth grade students who
are struggling to read. Reading Partners is
a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides
volunteer-led, one-on-one literacy tutoring to
more than 800 elementary school students
in 17 high poverty schools in Charleston and
Berkeley counties.
Reading Partners program is highly
effective and data-driven, helping at-risk
students master the fundamental reading
skills needed to succeed in the classroom
and beyond. Volunteers commit to spending
45 minutes with one student at least once
a week for an entire school year. This
individualized instruction empowers each
student to increase literacy skills and become
lifelong readers.
The organization is currently recruiting
volunteers to serve during the 2017-18
school year. The lowcountry community is
encouraged to join Reading Partners as a tutor
by registering online at readingpartners.org/
volunteer. To meet volunteer requirements,
you must be fourteen years or older and
commit to at least one hour per week. You do
not need to have prior teaching or tutoring
experience to join Reading Partners. To
learn more about Reading Partners and its
programs, please visit readingpartners.org/
location/south-carolina.
11
Historic site to host
naturalization ceremony
BY DAWN DAVIS
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
C
harles Pinckney National
Historic Site will host
its 20th Naturalization
Ceremony on Friday, Sept.
15, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Every year approximately 100
individuals from countries all
over the world take the Oath of
Citizenship during the event.
This annual event recognizes
national Citizenship Day and
kicks off National Constitution
Week. This event is free and
open to the public. The park Naturalized citizens taking the Oath of Citizenship.
is located at 1254 Long Point PHOTO PROVIDED
Road in Mount Pleasant, South Upon taking the Oath of Citizenship, the
Carolina. final step in a long and challenging process,
The National Park Service and the U.S. these new American citizens will have the
Citizenship and Immigration Services full rights and protections granted by the
continue to work together to enhance U.S. Constitution.
citizenship ceremonies by holding them Several organizations will contribute to
in national parks throughout the country. making the event a unique and unforgettable
Since 1997 these ceremonies have been held experience. The Citadel Color Guard will
annually on the grounds of historic Snee present and retire the colors, Wando High
Farm which was once owned by Charles School mens choir will sing patriotic songs,
Pinckney. and a 5th grade student from Palmetto
Charles Pinckneys role in framing Christian Academy will lead the Pledge
the U.S. Constitution make this site of Allegiance. Also on hand to provide
an appropriate place to welcome new fanfare and support services for Americas
citizens into this country and to reflect newest citizens will be the Daughters of
on the meaning and responsibilities of the American Revolution, Sons of the
citizenship, said acting Superintendent American Revolution, American Red Cross,
Gary Stansberry. We encourage the public Charleston County Board of Elections, and
to come out and watch this moving and life- U.S. Passport Services.
changing ceremony.
September 1, 2017
Its a family affair
C O F F E E S H O P O N I O P H A S I N T E R N AT I O N A L F L A I R
Caf Paname's Founding Family: (l-r) Coffee Guru Paul Walker, Tery Stimis, and BenjaminBoisson,
along with Benjamin's nephew Coventin Floc'h.
BY MIMI WOOD
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
F
rom France to Japan to Australia, how
did tiny Isle of Palms get so lucky to
land Caf Panamea hip, new bistro
specializing in locally roasted coffee?
Tery Stimis, one-third of the team, begins
the saga, I was working as an interior
designer in Atlanta when I met Benjamin,
her husband, an antiques dealer, who arrived
in the US from Paris in 2004.
The two were madly in love by 2007, when
the antiques market was hit hard by the
recession.Benjamin Boisson, a life-long bike
enthusiast, saw a market for vintage and used
bicycles, as Atlanta, despite the economy,
was just developing the BeltLine, a story
unto itself. In a nutshell, the BeltLine is an
ambitious urban renewal project, connecting
neighborhoods, businesses and restaurants
via trails and parks, utilizing former railroad
beds which encircle the city.
Boisson and a partner opened Atlanta
BeltLine Bicycles, a full-service bike shop
selling and repairing bicycles. Itwas one of
the first businesses on the BeltLine, and as
the shops reputation for excellence quickly
grew, so did Boissons persona as the French
guy.
Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the world,
Stimis son Paul Walker was completing his
four-year commitment to the United States
Navy as an air traffic controller, stationed
in Japan. Utilizing his benefits as a veteran,
Walker enrolled in Swinburne University
of Technology in Australia, a country hed
longed to explore. The coffee scene is huge in
Australia, explains Walker, who returned to
his parents home in Atlanta after obtaining
his degree, with a coffee dream in his heart.
It was Paul who put the coffee and bikes
together, elaborates Stimis, as Caf + Velo
(French for bike), evolved out of Boissons
original bike shop, as a casual spot on the
BeltLine for bikers and hikers to relax and
enjoy a cup of joe.
And while the businesses thrived, Stimis,
who was raised on the water in Long Island,
NY, felt landlocked in Atlanta, and was
anxious to return to a life by the sea. Having
vacationed on IOP for the past ten years,
she and Boisson found Charleston to be a
perfect mix of Europe and the USA. Selling
his share of the bike business to his partner,
Boisson, Stimis and Walker relocated to Mt.
Pleasant, opening Caf Paname earlier this
summer.
A recent Saturday morning found the caf
bustling with locals and seasonal visitors
alike. After enjoying breakfast crandwiches,
sandwiches on croissants, North Carolina
native Christopher Couchell popped back
in and ordered lunch to go for his family,
exclaiming, Yes, its that good! See you next
year! reflects the relaxed, easy-going nature of the
Local Ryan Hamilton echoed Couchells
sentiment, remarking although hed driven
by several times, this is my first time in.
Its going to be a regular stop. Devouring a
salmon croissant with pimento cheese, he
pronounced, Its dynamite! Saturday 7 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 7 a.m. to
Stimis, Boisson and Walker are passionate
about local sourcing, from eggs to coffee to
kombucha to ice cream sandwiches. After
searching high and low for the perfect coffee,
Walker found it in Awendaw, from Andy Hay,
13
(above) A fresh local egg and
perfect avocado nestled inside
a just-baked croissant nearly
brought Jamesy Wood to tears.
(left) Mocha Latte as delicious
as it looks.
(l-r) Jacqueline and Christopher Couchell, along with
in-laws Mary, Frank and James Yannucci (and babes in
arms!) enjoyed brunch inside Cafe Paname's vintage,
signature VW bus.
PHOTOS BY MIMI WOOD
Camino Coffee Roasters, who explains, I
roast in small batches, and utilize a process
which replaces a lot of the acidity with a
sweet note.
Currently, the drip coffee beans are from
Guatemala, and the cold brew is a blend
from Columbia, Nicaragua and Ethiopia. The
expresso is a special blend just for us, from
Brazil, Nicaragua, and Ethiopia, expounds
Walker, who shares not only Hays passion
for excellent coffee, but his philosophy of
fairly traded, sustainably produced beans.
The laid-back, local vibe of Caf Paname
familial trio. We want to live by the beach,
become part of the community, and support
local businesses, concludes Stimis.
Caf Paname is located at 1202A Palm Blvd
on Isle of Palms, and is currently open Monday-
3p.m. Anticipating approval of a license to sell
beer and wine, be on the lookout for expanded
hours, and the addition of French wine and
local beer to the menu.
16 September 1, 2017

Got
caught
eclipsing

Recording Artist Brendan James with She said yes! A couple got engaged as
his family on Sullivan's Island. the eclipse unfolded.

Sand sculpture under construction at Isle Kids taking their eye protection very
Isle of Palms Mayor Dick Cronin. PHOTO BY MIKE LOFTUS
of Palms Front Beach. seriously. PHOTOS BY STEVEN ROSAMILIA

www.islandeyenews.com

September 1, 2017
Hurricanes and
sea turtles
BY MARY PRINGLE
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
N
ow that we are approaching
the peak of the Atlantic
hurricane season, those of
us who protect loggerhead nests
not only begin to worry about
our houses but also the fate of
nests that are still in the dunes.
The good news is that sea turtles
have survived for over 100 million
years through all kinds of climate
change and even the cataclysmic
event that may have caused the
extinction on dinosaurs. Turtles
can survive easily in the deep
ocean, but it can be another story
for their eggs.
For this reason our nest
protection efforts include a careful
NESTING UPDATE: As of
Aug. 23 when this is being
written, 39 of our 49 nests
have produced turtles.
We have relocated a little
over 50% of the nests to
safer places. The average
incubation time is at 58 days.
Clutch size average is 116
eggs, and hatch success is
83%. These numbers are for
Sullivans Island and Isle of
Palms combined.
TURTLE TEAM
relocating of over half of the nests
laid on the Isle of Palms and
Sullivans Island. Before groups
like ours did this, the hatch rate
was around 10% but our average
this season is now at 83%. When
embryos in eggs or underground
hatchlings are deprived of oxygen
for more than a short time, it
causes their death. Severe storm
surges have even washed away
entire dunes in the past, taking
all of the eggs and the nest sign
with them.
When a storm approaches
we make sure to have accurate
GPS readings on all nests and
even add extra marking sticks
in the sand behind them. Our
Nesting Guidelines from the SC
Department of Natural Resources
prohibit us from doing anymore
than this. No one is to risk his
or her safety during a storm
trying to protect a nest. We are
not allowed to dig into a nest to
encourage hatchlings to come
out early. No nests can be moved
from the beach for protection
against storms. When a storm is
approaching, the nest inventory to
gather data cannot be conducted
A nest on the brink during Hurricane Irene.
on hatched nests less than 3 days
after a natural boil or emergence
of turtles from the nest no
exceptions.
All these rules may seem
harsh. However, consider that
all sea turtles spread their
nesting attempts temporally and
spatially. In other words she
lays her eggs four to six times
throughout the summer at two
week intervals and she also lays
them in different places. So if you
consider that she probably has
already had five successful nests
earlier in the summer, then losing
one in September to a hurricane
is not really such a catastrophe.
She also may lay some eggs high
up on some dunes and some not
so high. In these six nests there
will be over 700 eggs, so losing
about 100 of them does not mean
her efforts were in vain.
17
PHOTO BY BARB BERGWERF.
At the time of Hurricane Hugo in
1989 there was no nest protection
on either of our two islands. So
we have no records of what effect
that storm had. On Aug. 23 of
2011 Hurricane Irene side swiped
our coast without damaging
our houses, but it did destroy
fourteen nests still on the beach.
Even though Hurricane Matthew
did not come until October last
year when all of our hatchlings
were safely gone, it did much
to damage the dunes all along
our beaches greatly affecting the
nesting habitat. We are hoping
that the upcoming renourishment
project in Wild Dunes will restore
the beach and that the dunes that
were bulldozed at the south end
of the Isle of Palms will become
more compacted to make nesting
easier for the turtles and finding
the eggs easier for us.
 September 2
ONGOING
Mondays
WHAT: Memoir Writing Circle
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library, 1921 Ion Avenue
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Come and share
your stories. 843.883.3914.
Tuesdays
WHAT: Toddler Storytime
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library, 1921 Ion Avenue
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Mrs. Marie shared
stories and fun with little ones.
843.883.3914.
Thursdays
WHAT: Mah Jongg Nights
(adults)
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library, 1921 Ion Avenue.
WHEN: 5:30-8:00 p.m.
MORE INFO: Learn to play the
fun and fast-paced game of
American Mah Jongg.Beginners
welcome. 843.883.3914.
Saturday, Sept. 2
WHAT: Charleston Swing Dance
Associations Weekly Dance
WHERE: Knights of Columbus,
143 Calhoun St.
WHEN: 7 11 p.m.
MORE INFO: Beginner Lesson at
7 p.m. , open dance from 8 11
p.m. No partner needed. All ages
welcome.
Lesson and Dance $8 per person.
Wednesday, Sept. 6
WHAT: Charleston Restaurant
Week
WHERE: various locations
throughout Charleston
WHEN: Sept. 6 Sunday, Sept. 17
MORE INFO: Over 140
restaurants offering prix
fixe menus. For a list of
participating restaurants visit
CharlestonRestaurantAssociation.
com.
WHAT: Storage Facility Tour
WHERE: The Gibbes Museum
WHEN: 5:30 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Ever wonder what
happens behind the scenes at
the Gibbes? Now is your chance.
Join Zinnia Willits, Director
of Collections Administration
for a tour of our new storage
facility. Learn how the rest of the
collection lives when its not on
display in the galleries. This tour
is free for Members and included
with Museum admission for
Non-Members. 843.722.2706 for
details.
WHAT: Gibbes Garden Series:
Ben Sollee
WHERE: The Gibbes Museum
WHEN: 7 -8:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Kentucky-born
cellist, songwriter and activist
Ben Sollee will open our Gibbes
Garden Concert series in support
of his upcoming release Ben
Sollee and Kentucky Native.
843.722.2706 for details.
Thursday, Sept. 7
WHAT: Yappy Hour
WHERE: Splash Island Waterpark
WHEN: 4:30 p.m. - sunset
MORE IFNO: Dogs will be
allowed in the water, but owners
will not be permitted to swim.
Concessions will be available for
purchase. No outside alcohol,
food or coolers. All dogs must
be current on all vaccinations
for entry into the event, and
each dog should be registered
to one adult owner/chaperone.
Advance ticket purchase is
recommended. Tickets are $8
per dog in advance, or $10 on
site if available. For details, visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Saturday, Sept. 9
WHAT: STAR Therapy Dogs
(Children)
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library, 1921 Ion Avenue
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Read a book to a
fuzzy friend. 843.883.3914.
Is l a nd E y e C a l e nda r
WHAT: Basic Drawing with
Daryle Halbert
WHERE: The Gibbes Museum
WHEN: 1 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: This class meets
for four sessions on Saturdays
and Sundays, Sept. 9, 10, 16,
and 17Students will learn basic
drawing techniques such as
the different qualities of line for
contour line drawing, light and
shadow, shading, figure drawing,
sill life and most importantly, how
to hold and control the drawing
instruments while understanding
their essential use. Ages 14 and
older. 843.722.2706 to register
and for more details.
WHAT: Shaggin on the Cooper
WHERE: Mount Pleasant Pier
WHEN: Gates at 7 p.m., music at
8 p.m.
MORE INFO: The series finale
will feature live music by The
Coppertones. advance tickets are
$8. Space is limited, so advance
purchase is recommended. If
available, tickets sold at the
event are $10. To purchase
tickets or for more information
call 843.795.4386 or visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
WHAT: Dog Day Afternoon
WHERE: Splash Island Waterpark
WHEN: 10 a.m. 12 p.m. and 1
3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Select pool areas
will be open for dogs only; owners
will not be allowed in the water.
Two, two-hour time sessions will
be offered. Dogs must be current
on all vaccinations for entry.
Tickets are limited; advance
purchase is recommended.
Each dog should be registered
to one adult owner/chaperone
and must be kept in control and
at close hand. Fee: $8 per dog
in advance or $10 at the gate
if available. For details, visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Sunday, Sept. 10
WHAT: Go Wild!
WHERE: The Gibbes Museum
WHEN: 1 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy family-
friendly activities in conjunction
withArtist, Scientist,
Explorer: Mark Catesby in the
CarolinasandOut of the Wild.
Free for Members, included with
Museum admission for Non-
Members. Call 843.722.2706 for
details.
Monday, Sept. 11
WHAT: Mount Pleasant Artists
Guild meeting
WHERE: Mount Pleasant Water
Works, located at 1618 Rifle
Range Road
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: If you have an
interest in art, please join
us.For more information
about the Perspective Gallery
located at 1055 Johnnie Dodds
Blvd. and the MPAG, visit
MtPleasantArtistsGuild.comand
see us on Facebook.
Friday, Sept. 15
WHAT: US Naturalization
Ceremony
WHERE: Charles Pinckney
Historic Site
WHEN: 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Approximately 100
individuals from all over the world
take the Oath of Citizenship. This
will be the 20th ceremony hosted
at the Mount Pleasant site. Public
is welcome to attend.
Saturday, Sept. 16
WHAT: Book Club
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: A lively discussion
of A Farewell to Arms by Earnest
Hemingway. Light refreshments
served. Email darling@ccpl.
com for more information or call
843.883.3914.
WHAT: 5th Annual Chucktown
Showdown
WHERE: Brittlebank Park
WHEN: 7:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: The races are
open to Stand-Up Paddleboards,
Prones, Outrigger Canoes and
Surfskis. The event features 3
races:The Harbor Course (9
Miles), The Battery Course (4
miles) and The Kids SUP Race
(1 mile). Over $3,000 in cash
prizes awarded for the top SUP
finishers of the 9-mile course.
Benefiting Surfers Healing Folly
Beach andSurfrider Foundation
Charleston Chapter. Visit
ChucktownShowdown.org to
register and for details.
Saturday, Sept. 16
WHAT: Beyond the Big House
Tour
WHERE: Tour begins at Nathaniel
Russell House Museum, 51
Meeting Street
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Tickets $35.
Children 6-12 $10. For details
on this unique opportunity
to visit some of Charlestons
lesser known historic sites, visit
HistoricCharleston.org/Beyond.
September 21
Sunday, Sept. 17
WHAT: Chucktown Showdown,
SUP Surf Contest
WHERE: 9th Block, Sullivans
Island
WHEN: 7:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Visit
ChucktownShowdown.org to
register and for details.
Thursday, Sept. 21
WHAT: Sullivans Island During
WWII: an Oral History
WHERE: Ft. Moultrie Visitor
Center Auditorium
WHEN: 6 7:15 p.m.
MORE INFO: Battery Gadsden
Cultural Center presents Roy
Williams, former history teacher
and author of Images of America:
Sullivans Island. Free and
open to the public. For more
information visit BatteryGadsden.
com.
20 September 1, 2017

Beyond the Big House

S E P T. 1 6 T O U R O F P R I V A T E , H I S T O R I C B U I L D I N G S W H E R E
E N S L AV E D P E O P L E L I V E D A N D W O R K E D

BY FANIO KING
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

S
tep inside the kitchens,
carriage houses and former
work lots of Charlestons
private houses during Beyond the
Big House: Tour and Storytelling
on Sept. 16, presented by The
Slave Dwelling Project and
Historic Charleston Foundation.
These buildings have survived to
tell the story of the enslaved in
Charleston, their lives and labor.
When the buildings remain
on the landscape, its hard to
deny the presence of the people
who lived in them, said Joseph
McGill, founder of The Slave
Dwelling Project. From these
buildings, we learn about the
lives of the enslaved people who
inhabited them. This event is part
of a continuing effort to honor the
enslaved ancestors.The history
of the people who occupied these
spaces should be intertwined
with the stories of those who
enslaved them. What started as
an idea of English Purcell now
WHILE ZOOMING ACROSS THE CHARLESTON PENINSULA
ON GOOGLE EARTH, ENGLISH PURCELL NOTED, THE
NUMBER OF SMALLER BUILDINGS BEHIND THE LARGE
DWELLINGS ON THE LOTS WAS ASTOUNDING.
has flourished into the potential
for participants to explore and
learn the history beyond the big
house.
English Purcell, a researcher
and administrator for the popular
Facebook group Charleston
Miles Brewton House Outbuildings.
History before 1945, said the
idea came to her while zooming
across the Charleston peninsula
on Google Earth. The number
of smaller buildings behind the
large dwellings on the lots was
astounding, she said. We are
very grateful to the property
owners who live in these special
spaces and have cared for them
and preserved them. The lives of
the enslaved were so unbelievably
different from those who occupied
the big houses that are visible
from the street. Charleston was
PHOTO BY GABRIELLA ANGELONI
the wealthiest city in colonial
North America, and that wealth
was built literally and figuratively
by the enslaved. We want to
highlight their stories. Focusing
this touron the buildings where
the enslaved worked and lived is
not only interesting historically,
it is critical to the telling of the
complete story of Charleston.
In addition to the tour, 2-5
p.m., of private properties
seldom open to the public, the
Beyond the Big House event will
include professional storytelling
in the back lot of the Aiken-
Rhett House Museum, c.1820,
from 4:30-6 p.m. The property
survives as one of the best-
preserved collections of 19th-
century domestic buildings in
the nation, and the expansive
back lot includes slave quarters,
kitchen and carriage block. In
this setting, storytellers will
further illuminate the lives of the
enslaved in urban Charleston.
Joseph McGill will be on hand
to discuss the mission and
programs of The Slave Dwelling
Project, including his planned
sleepover in the Aiken-Rhett
House slave quarters that evening
to draw attention to the need to
preserve slave dwellings across
the country. He will be joined by
Mayor Stephen K. Benjamin of
Columbia, SC, as well as other
volunteers.
We are honored that Historic
Charleston Foundations
Aiken-Rhett House lot and
outbuildings are included in this
groundbreaking and meaningful
educational program, said
Katharine S. Kitty Robinson,
President and CEO of HCF. Recent
archaeological excavations in
the laundry building yielded
an unprecedented number of
artifacts related to the daily
lives of slaves on the property,
discoveries that will allow
us to continue to expand
our interpretation of African
American history at our house
museums even further.
Beyond the Big House: Tour
and Storytelling tickets are $35
for adults; $10 for children
6-12; free for children under
6. To purchase tickets and
for more information, visit
HistoricCharleston.org/Beyond.
September 1, 2017
Recollections of
Sullivans Island
during World War II
BY SUSAN MIDDAUGH
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
T
he personal and family
stories of long-time residents
are an essential part of the
remarkable history of Sullivans
Island. The Oral History Project
of Battery Gadsden Cultural
Center is designed to capture
these stories as recounted by
Island residents in interviews
that are videotaped and edited
according to the standards of
the Oral History Association.
Mike Walsh, a member of the
BGCC Board, has led this effort
in coordination with the College
of Charleston Addlestone Library
and Lowcountry Digital Library
where these Sullivans Island oral
histories may be archived. to answer questions from the
The first oral history video
from this project is Recollections
of Sullivans Island during World
War II, as told by Roy Williams.
Roy grew up on Sullivans Island,
taught history at Wando High
School, and authored the book
Images of America: Sullivans
Island (Arcadia Publishing,
Charleston, SC, 2004).
An engaging story-teller
21
and historian, Williams vividly
recounts what his life was like
on Sullivans Island during WWII,
when civilian life was intertwined
with Fort Moultrie and the
dramatic events in distant
theatres of war, culminating Roy Williams will answer questions following his taped video presentation.
in the atomic bombs dropped PHOTO BY W. MICHAEL WALSH, MD
on Japan and the end-of-war
celebrations on Sullivans Island.
This oral history presentation
is Sept. 21, from 6 7:15 PM, in
the Fort Moultrie Visitor Center
Auditorium, 1214 Middle St.,
Sullivans Island. Mike Walsh will
provide a brief introduction to the
48-minute oral history video. Roy
Williams will be in attendance
audience following the video
presentation.
This event is free and open to
the public. It is co-sponsored by:
The National Park Service and
Fort Sumter/Fort Moultrie National
Monument & Battery Gadsden
Cultural Center BatteryGadsden.
com.
We now
build
websites!
www.islandeyenews.com

your island hair salon
843-883-9101
2205 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen
Specializing in local and
sustainable seafood. All Altantic
Ocean sourced Seafood. $$-$$$
886-FISH (3474)
31 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Banana Cabana
A casual menu suits its
beachfront setting. Nibbles like
peel and eat shrimp and nachos
alongside heartier platters of
seafood. $-$$
886-4361
www.thebananacabana.com
1130 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
Beard Cats
Gelato made from locally sourced
ingredients, and coffee shop that
sits below Obstinate Daughter. $
416-5020
www.beardcatsweetshop.com
2063 Middle St, Sullivans Island
Ben & Jerrys
Enjoy an array of ice cream
flavors, from Chocolate Therapy,
to Peach Cobbler on Isle of Palms
Front Beach. $
886-6314
www.benandjerrys.com
1009 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
The Boathouse
Fresh, local seafood, and
phenomenal sunset views from
the upper deck on Breach Inlet.
$$-$$$
886.8000
www.boathouserestaurants.com
101 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Coconut Joes &
Island Joes Coffee
Spectacular views of the Atlantic
on the rooftop bar and live music
every night during the summer.
$-$$. Island Joes next door
featuring coffee and ice cream. $
886-0046
www.coconutjoes.biz
1120 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
The Co-Op
A gourmet deli specializing in
breakfast and lunch sandwiches
as well as local coffee. Enjoy
pantry staples including beer
and wine along with locally made
products and house made take
and go meals. Open 7 days a
week. Delivery available. $
882-8088
www.thecoopsi.com
2019 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
off-island eats
Bacco
Regional Italian restaurant
featuring fresh pastas, fior di latte
mozzarella and Neapolitan style
pizzas from the wood burning oven.
$$$
843.884.6969
www.baccocharleston.com
976 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Mt.
Pleasant
Bistro Toulouse
Classic French cuisine, fine wines
and creative cocktails. Menu
highlights include Crepes, Mussels,
Cassoulet, Bouillabaisse, Cheese
& Charcuterie and house made
Desserts. $$$
843.216.3434
www.bistrotoulouse.com
1220 Ben Sawyer Blvd,
Mt. Pleasant
island eats
The Dinghy
Laid back Key West Vibe, great
food options, unique beers on
tap, spacious side porch, and live
music. $-$$
242-8310
www.dinghyiop.com
8 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Dunleavys Irish Pub
The islands only Irish Pub.
Famous burgers, Irish fare,
favorite locals hangout for over
20 years. $$
883-9646
www.dunleavysonsullivans.com
2213 Middle St, Sullivans Island
High Thyme
A small island bistro, with a wide
range of dishes, from seafood,
tapas on Tuesday, and a Sunday
brunch. $$-$$$
883-3536
www.highthymecuisine.com
2213 Middle St, Sullivans Island
Home Team BBQ
Not limited to barbeque, this
casual eatery also serves salads,
wraps, tacos, and quesadillas,
Sunday Brunch. $$
883-3131
www.teamteambbq.com
2209 Middle St, Sullivans Island
Island Ice Frozen Yogurt
All organic frozen yogurt, with
gluten free and vegan options.
Toppings are all natural or
organic. Local coffee and teas. $
885-7079
www.islandiceyogurt.com
1515 C Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Long Island Caf
Come in for lunch, dinner,
or Sunday brunch and enjoy
all your favorite seafood, plus
so much more at this island
favorite. $$-$$$
886-8809
www.longislandcafesc.com
1515-A Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Morgan Creek Grill
Relax with a front row seat on
the Intracoastal Waterway while
enjoying fresh seafood and
southern hospitality. $$
886-8980
www.morgancreekgrill.com
8040 1st Ave, Isle of Palms
Eggs Up Grill
Relaxed chain serving a menu of
breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in
a colorful setting. $-$$
388-3654
www.eggsupgrill.com
2664 Highway 17 North,
Mt. Pleasant
Sawyers
True to the low country, Sawyer's
On The Boulevard is surrounded
by beautiful Oak trees and done in
reclaimed wood on the inside with
copper tiles topping the bar area.
Local fresh shrimp and fish tacos
are a favorite here as well as some
of Charleston's best music 5 nights
a week. $$
843.388.5270
www.sawyersotb.com
1528 Ben Sawyer Blvd,
Mt. Pleasant
www.islandeyenews.com
The Obstinate Daughter
Restaurant serving contemporary
Southern cuisine, pizza & pasta
in a rustic, coastal-inspired
space.
$$-$$$
416-5020
www.theobstinatedaughter.com
2063 Middle St,Sullivans Island
Pizza Hut
Now serving Isle of Palms in the
Harris Teeter shopping center.
Deliver right to your door or get
carryout. $
886-5759
www.order.pizzahut.com
1515 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Poes Tavern
Famous for their gourmet
burgers and chicken sandwiches,
this Poe-inspired eatery also
features great deals on fresh fish
tacos. $$
883-0083
www.longislandcafesc.com
2210 Middle St, Sullivans Island
Refuge
Enjoy morning coffee with fresh
bagels and pastries from the
coffee bar and dinner or lunch
at the restaurant along with
signature cocktails.
www.therefugeiop.com
1517 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms
Saltworks Dockside Deli
Located inside the Isle of Palms
Marina Market, come enjoy
breakfast, smoothies, and
sandwiches. $-$$
883-3355
www.saltworkscc.com
50 41st Ave, Isle of Palms
Sullivans
Grab a casual dinner of fried
flounder or crab cakes in a cozy
atmosphere as well as lunch on
the weekends. $$
883-3222
www.saltstation22.com
2019 Middle St, Sullivans Island
Windjammer
Lively spot with a bar menu,
a deck overlooking the water,
and beach volleyball court out
back.$-$$
886-8596
www.the-windjammer.com
1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
Stacks Coastal Kitchen
Join us for lunch, where we
offer fresh soup, salads, and
sandwiches. Enjoy dinner in a
casual bistro-style setting, nice
selection and outdoor seating. $$
388-6968
www.stackscoastalkitchen.com
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd,
Mt. Pleasant
The Wine Bar
Wine, unique variety of 40 +
cheeses and charcuterie meats
from around the world., chocolate,
bon-bons. $$
849-5185
www.thewinebarmtp.com
664 Long Point Rd, Mt. Pleasant
 FINANCIAL FOCUS
September 1, 2017 23

Are you a hardworking investor?

BY DIMI MATOUCHEV
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

N
ext week, we observe Labor investing in and why. Even if you
Day, a celebration of the work with a financial professional,
American worker. You work you need to inform yourself about
hard your whole life with the hope every aspect of your investment
that your efforts will ultimately allow portfolio. After all, its your money
you to achieve your financial goals, and your future.
such as a comfortable retirement. Be farsighted. Good
But for that to happen, you may workers not only know what
need to apply some of the lessons theyre doing, they also can
of the workplace to your efforts as visualize the desired outcome of
an investor. each task. And, of course, people
So, what are these lessons? Here who are in charge of a particular
are a few to consider: endeavor, or who are responsible
Be consistent. The most for the fortunes of a business,
successful workers are the ones have a clear view of what they
who show up, day after day, want to accomplish, even if
and strive to overcome the in- the achievement of that goal is
evitable obstacles that crop up. many years in the future. When
As an investor, you, too, need you invest, you also need to see
to be consistent in your habits where you want to go. If you can
which means you should keep constantly keep in mind your
investing in all types of markets. long-term goals, such as the type
If you take a time out every time of retirement lifestyle you desire,
the market drops, you might you will likely find it easier to
end up missing opportunities stick with an investment strategy
when the next rally begins. thats appropriate for your needs
Be flexible. When good and risk tolerance. Conversely, if
workers see that something is not going well, they change what you lose sight of your destination, you might be more prone to
theyre doing. And when you invest, you also may need to make taking short-term detours, which could work against you.
adjustments. If an investment has consistently under-performed, Labor Day reminds us to appreciate the skills and dedication of
or if you have too many others very similar to it, or if it just doesnt all workers and as an investor, you can put these same attributes to
meet your needs anymore, you may be better off by selling it and good use.
using the proceeds to invest elsewhere. This doesnt mean you Dimi Matouchev is a financial advisor with Edward Jones, located
should constantly be buying and selling. In fact, youll likely be
at 1505 Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms. For more information, call
better off by purchasing quality investments and holding them
for the long term. But you need to be flexible enough to make the 843.886.9229 or visit edwardjones.com.
appropriate moves at the appropriate times.
Be informed. The best workers are those who regularly update
their skills and acquire knowledge that helps them do their jobs
better. As an investor, you should also keep learning, about the
investment world in general and about new opportunities for
you to explore. And you should always understand what you are

Breac h Inlet Tide Char t

Date High Tide Low Tide
Sep 1 4:30am/5:20pm 10:34am/11:25pm
Sep 2 5:23am/6:08pm 11:25am
Sep 3 6:12am/6:53pm 12:12am/12:13pm
Sep 4 6:59am/7:36pm 12:56am/12:59pm
Sep 5 7:43am/8:17pm 1:38am/1:44pm
Sep 6 8:25am/8:56pm 2:19am/2:29pm
Sep 7 9:07am/9:36pm 2:59am/3:14pm
Sep 8 9:50am/10:17pm 3:41am/4:00pm
Sep 9 10:35am/11:01pm 4:24am/4:49pm
Sep 10 11:24am/11:50pm 5:10am/5:41pm
Sep 11 12:18pm 5:59am/6:38pm
Sep 12 12:45am/1:18pm 6:53am/7:40pm
Sep 13 1:47am/2:24pm 7:53am/8:46pm
Sep 14 2:53am/3:31pm 8:57am/9:52pm

Hurricanes, storms etc., are NOT included in the

predictions. Tidal current direction changes and tide time
predictions can be very different. Tide predictions are
PREDICTIONS; they can be wrong so use common sense.

Source: www.saltwatertides.com