Island Eye News - September 26, 2014

S u l l i v a n ’ s I s l a n d • I s l e o f P a l m s • G o a t I s l a n d • D e w e e s I s l a n d

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September 26, 2014Volume 10 Issue 11 FREE

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INSIDE THE ISLAND EYE NEWSWHAT'S UP WITH THE FORESTPG 2

NO PICNIC FOR TURTLESPG 22

The Dinghy continues on page 7

Town Hall continues on page 6

The Dinghy washes up on Front Beach

Sullivan’s unveils design of Town Hall$3.5 MILLION BUILDING WILL HOUSE TOWN STAFF, POLICE, COMMUNITY ROOM AND PUBLIC RESTROOMS

BY JENNIFER TUOHYISLAND EYE NEWS EDITOR

B U R G I S A N D J O N E S O P E N TA P R O O M O N I O PBY KATHRYN CASEY

ISLAND EYE NEWS STAFF WRITER

By simply walking into The Dinghy, one can immediately tell that this new taproom and kitchen on the Isle of Palms is little bit different. Set across from the street

from the bars on Front Beach, The Dinghy is metaphorically and literally an outlier. The atmosphere can best be summed up in three words by one of its owners, Bret Jones, “chill, casual, hangout.”

Owned by Bret Jones and Malcolm Burgis, The Dinghy has been open since July 2. The design for the bar has been in the works since last October. Despite only being open for two months, there is already a “great local crowd,” say the owners.

“No one is a stranger here,” notes the general manager,

As one major town building project concludes, another one ramps up. The Sullivan’s Island Elementary School dedication ceremony took place Monday, Sept. 22, a week after the town of Sullivan’s

Island unveiled the final designs for the new Town Hall/Police Station.

“It’s very nice,” was the response of the majority of the public assembled at a special Sullivan’s Island Council meeting on Sept. 8, 2014 to get the first glimpse of the new building.

And indeed it is, in fact it is quite possibly the most attractive Town Hall to be built this century. In an age when civic buildings are built purely from practical standpoints and less for aesthetic reasons, the new Sullivan’s Island’s Town Hall stands out from the crowd, looking more like a Southern plantation house than a place for police and council business.

PHOTOS BY STEVE ROSAMILIA

The design of the new Sullivan’s Island Town Hall is intended to be in keeping with the character of the island.

2 September 26, 2014

Lawsuit continues on page 4

www.islandeyenews.com

A common plea at Sullivan’s Island Town Council meetings over the past year

has been to the public to get more involved in the Town. “We welcome and encourage the input of our citizens,” is a phrase often repeated by Mayor Mike Perkis.

The Town certainly got what it asked for when it comes to the issue of the accreted land along the southern and eastern portions of the island. Two council meetings this month were standing room only due to the volume of concerned citizens anxious to express their opinion over what will be done to manage the flourishing maritime forest that has sprouted since Hurricane Hugo re-shaped the geography of the island 25 years ago this month.

By an informal estimate, 90 percent of the comments coming from the assembled citizens were against the idea of aggressively managing the accreted land through cutting or pruning the growth there. However, Council has remained largely silent

on the issue. At none of these meetings was any comment made or any indication given as to what Council is considering doing with the land. Why? Because the Town is in the middle of court-ordered mediation courtesy of a lawsuit over the management of the land, the contents of which must remain behind closed doors until it is resolved or goes back in front of a judge.

This forced silence has infuriated many island residents, and raised the question of whether the townspeople will have any say in what happens to the accreted land, which was bought and paid for with $17,000 raised by island residents.

“I would like to see the mediation stopped. Take it to trial,” Larry Middaugh, a Sullivan’s Island resident, said at a special Town Council meeting on Sept. 16.

The lawsuit was brought by island residents Nathan and Ettaleah Bluestein and Theodore and Karen Albenesius, who live on the front beach and want to be able to cut the vegetation in front

of their homes down to 3 feet, as was allowed by Town ordinance in 1991. Current ordinances restrict cutting of vegetation to 5 feet and restrict what type of vegetation may be cut.

“There were sea oats and wild flowers which provide a beautiful vista for all to enjoy,” states the lawsuit. Now “unchecked overgrowth has completely obstructed or imminently will obstruct all views of the Atlantic Ocean and beach...”

Because of this the plaintiffs claim their properties have been reduced in value by at least $1,000,000 to $1,500,000 and that because the town will not let them cut down the vegetation the mosquito, bug, raccoon, snake, rat, spider, coyote and varmint populations have been allowed to flourish. They are also concerned that the “forest” which has grown up in front of their homes is

providing "cover for criminals and dangerous animals/varmints.”

Recently the Council has been working to develop new

ordinances for management of the accreted land, including bringing in experts to help it understand the ecology of a maritime forest and how best to responsibly manage the land. Many citizens had been involved in this process, but progress was abruptly halted this month and Council stated no further progress will be made until after the lawsuit has concluded.

However, due to citizens’ frustrations at the lack of action and information, Council

CIVICCouncil silenced by lawsuit

S U L L I V A N ’ S I S L A N D T O W N C O U N C I L H A S M A D E N O P R O G R E S S O N M A R I T I M E F O R E S T I S S U E D U E T O R E S T R I C T I O N S O F L A W S U I T B R O U G H T B Y C I T I Z E N S


“WE BELIEVE THE TOWN HAS UNLIMITED AUTHORITY TO TRIM, PRUNE AND CONTROL AND PASS

ORDINANCES TO REGULATE THE ACCRETED LAND, AFTER ALL THE TOWN OWNS IT.” ~ Brady Hair

September 26, 2014 3

Isle of Palms886.6428www.iop.net

Tuesday, September 30City Council Meeting NEW DATE and TIME6 p.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Thursday, October 2Public Hearing on Parking6 p.m.24 Twenty-eighth Avenue

Tuesday, October 7Board of Zoning Appeals5:30 p.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Recreation Committee9 a.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Wednesday, October 8Personnel Committee10 a.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Accommodations Tax

Advisory Committee12 p.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Public Works Committee5:30 p.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Thursday, October 9Public Safety Committee10 a.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Real Property Committee5:30 p.m.1207 Palm Boulevard

Sullivan's Island883.3198www.sullivansisland-sc.com

Saturday, September 27SIES Community Open House10 a.m.2015 I'on Ave

September 29-October 1Jury TrialsIsland Club House 1453 Hennessy St

Wednesday, October 1Coffee with the Chief!Stop by for a chat about SI with Police Chief Howard at Cafe Medley.8:30 a.m. 2213 Middle Street

Monday, October 6Council Workshop 6 p.m.2050 Middle Street

Tuesday, October 7Municipal Court* 5:30 p.m.2050 Middle Street

Wednesday, October 8Coffee with the Chief!See Wednesday, October 1.

Planning Commission 6:30 p.m.2050 Middle Street

Thursday, October 9Board of Zoning Appeals 6 p.m.2050 Middle Street

CIVIC

* Bench Trials will be at a temporary Town Hall facility located behind the Fire Station, next to the Stith Park (2050 Middle Street). Contact SI Clerk of Court directly at 883-5734 (Maria LoRusso) for payments or questions.

Lynn Pierottipublisher

[email protected]

Jennifer Tuohymanaging editor

[email protected]

Swan Richardsgraphic designer

Lori McGee 614.0901advertising executive

Sandy Englandad sales

[email protected]

Christian LeBlancsocial media

[email protected]

Steve Rosamiliaphotographer

Kathryn Casey Marci Shorestaff writer

•Contributors:Natalie HauffMary PringleChief Stith

Meredith NelsonJeanne Kay Juhos

Bob HooperDimi MatouchevCarol Antman

Chuck BensonhaverMarilyn MarkelConnie Darling

•Published by:

Lucky Dog Publishingof South Carolina, LLC

P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

843-886-NEWSSubmit your letters to the editor to:

[email protected] Future deadline: October 1 for

our October 10 issue

Lucky Dog PubLishing of sc, LLc

Publisher of the Island Eye Newsand the Island Connection

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,

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 avail-

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Civic CalendarRecycle - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1 - Recycle

Following months of intensive deliberation and study the City of Isle of

Palms is seeking public input on its current proposal to implement a beach parking permit program for the 2015 beach season. (For details on the program see the article in Sept. 12 issue of Island Eye News.) A public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. at the Isle of Palms

Recreation Center. The idea of holding a public

hearing arose during the first vote on the program at the August City Council meeting. Some members of Council were reticent to move forward with the recommendations of consultant firm Stantec without further public input on the issue, so the motion to accept the consultant’s recommendation was made contingent on a public hearing.

During the August 26 meeting some members of Council expressed concern over the financial viability of the plan and lack of time to explore other alternatives.

“There are so many questions,” councilmember Sandy Ferencz said. “I don’t think we’ve answered enough to go forward.”

The issue of the right of way encroachment repeatedly arose as being one with no clear solution in this current plan.

“What’s to stop the other 49 percent of us from going out and landscaping in their right

of way?” councilmember Jimmy Carrol asked.

But Council was in agreement that something must be done, and decided moving forward with Stantec’s recommendations was a step in the right direction, even if the final details of the plan are yet to be decided upon.

“We’re at the point now where we’ve got to do something,” councilmember Martin Bettelli said. “If we don’t we’re letting down the residents of the island. We need to take the next step and move forward. Yes there are a lot of questions, but we can’t just sit here and say we need more information. We need to move forward.”

To help citizens get a handle on all of the issues surrounding the parking permit program and its implementation prior to the public hearing, Island Eye News asked councilmembers to answer the following questions.

IOP holds public forum on paid parking plan

C O U N C I L M E M B E R S O F F E R T H O U G H T S T O R E S I D E N T S A H E A D O F C O M M U N I T Y M E E T I N G


Parking continues on page 10

convened a special meeting on Sept. 16. At that meeting the lawyer defending the town, Brady Hair, laid out the progress of the lawsuit.

“The suit is currently with Master in Equity for Charleston County,” Hair said. “There are no facts in dispute in this case. The plaintiffs are challenging the adoption of ordinances that regulate accreted land on various grounds.

“Their argument is does the Town of Sullivan’s Island have the right to regulate what happens on the accreted land, with regard to the vegetation, through their zoning ordinances, or are they restricted by the covenants in the contract between Sullivan’s Island and the Lowcountry Open Land Trust? If so, what do those mean? The plaintiffs believe passing a zoning ordinance that prohibited them from cutting was a breach of contract.”

“We believe the Town has unlimited authority to trim, prune and control and pass ordinances to regulars accreted land, after all the town owns it,” Hair continued.

“The front beach property owners in the suit believe the deed restrictions gave them the right to a view and ocean breezes.

Sullivan’s deeded the land to the LOLT and then the LOLT deeded it back with these restrictions and covenants. Every year they come out and check to make sure Sullivan’s is in compliance with those deed restrictions as they interpret them. And we have been every year.

“We argued the motions in front of the judge and, not unusually, the judge didn’t want to decide. Instead he ordered an attempt at mediation. The rules of mediation prohibit me from talking about what happens in the mediation,” Hair concluded.

However, once the mediation is completed, successful or not, an ordinance will have to be passed to determine what happens to the land and that will have to be done in public, through the usual channels. So citizens will have another chance to have their voices heard on this highly charged issue.

Look for an article on the benefits and concerns surrounding the maritime forest that has grown up on the accreted land in the next edition of Island Eye News. If you would like to submit your comments on the issue for inclusion in the article email [email protected] by Wed. Oct. 1.

Lawsuit continues from page 2

CORRECTIONIn the September 12, 2014 edition of the Island Eye News, an ar-ticle titled Beach Preservation Referendum misattributed the name of the homeowners association that is responsible for managing the sandbags in front of Ocean Club Condos in Wild Dunes. It is the Ocean Club HOA that is responsible for those sandbags.The Island Eye News regrets the error



“We were trying to make it fit the character of the town,” explained David Creech, of Creech and Associates Architectural Design, at the special presentation. “We determined that porches are nice.”

The design picks up on public comments from the two previous public meetings held to discuss the design of the building, including bringing the building closer to the street,

moving the footprint out of the adjoining Stith Park completely, and including those quaint wraparound porches to bring the character more in line with the rest of the island.

According to the presentation by David Creech the building will be situated about 25 feet from the back of the curb, between the park and the fire station, just in front of the entrance to the mound—leaving full access to the mound. The structure is about 75 feet wide, 48 feet high and its total square footage is 9,500. While it is a few feet higher than

the fire station, the ground under the fire station was brought up, so both buildings will appear to be of similar height.

The first floor will consist of Town Administrative staff offices, a customer service area with access to the Water and Sewer department, Municipal Court, Town Clerk and Building Permits. A community room / council chambers occupies a large portion of the floor, and has been designated as an emergency operations hub when necessary.

The second floor is occupied by the police department, although about a third of the floor space is being left unfinished for future expansion.

The ground floor holds public restrooms for the park and storage facilities. It also includes ground floor access to an elevator. To see the floor plans visit www.sullivansisland-sc.com.

The consideration for a new town hall/police station has been part of the Town’s strategic plan for over 15 years. In 2011 health and environmental concerns at the previous building,

1610 Middle Street, prompted council to move staff into temporary trailers. The trailers cost the town $4,000 a month in rent. The estimated cost of the new building is $3.5 million.

The first community meeting regarding the design was held in Sept. 2013, a second in November and, following design reviews incorporating comments from those meetings, the third public meeting, held on Sept. 8, revealed the final design.

Comments from the crowd at the meeting included “I really like what you’ve done; it’s very nice,” and “I think the design you’re showing here is much more harmonious with the island architecture, I really like it.”

“Getting from where we started to today—making the changes we have made following your input—is a huge difference,” Hartley Cooper, chair of the Public Facilities Committee, said.

The only major concern brought up during the meeting was about the amount of parking. There are 28 spaces designated for parking behind the building, access to which will be off Station 20 1/2. Staff and police cars will occupy 20 spaces, leaving eight for the public, however there will be some limited on street parking available.

Following the largely positive reception council voted unanimously to move forward and voted to allow the architect to complete the Design Documents phase of the project. This is estimated to take four to six weeks and will be followed by drawing up the Construction Documents, a process that will take two months. This puts the project on track to break ground in January or early February of 2015

Town Hall continues from cover

This graphic illustrates where the new building will be situated in relation to the fire station and Stith Park.



Johnny Yaquinto, who calls this bar a “fun, beachy home.”

Burgis, the owner of the nearby Windjammer, met Jones there when he was working as the night manager. When The Dinghy’s property became available the two considered opening a bar there.

“We wanted to make a bar that we wanted to go to,” he said.

The name of The Dinghy is inspired by the fact that it is the little taproom across the street from the larger Windjammer. Although the two are not affiliated, they compliment one another. The Dinghy has a diverse past, having previously been a post office, an antique store, and a surf shop before being converted to the taproom and kitchen it is now. Remnants of its previous businesses are still visible.

The Dinghy sets itself apart from the rest of the bars on the island by having its own parking lot. Patrons can park in the spacious lot for free. In addition to having its own parking, The Dinghy has a unique menu with items such as alligator bites, New England style clam strips, conch fries, coconut shrimp, and their signature “dirty Elvis fries.”

Jones and his wife came up with the ideas for the menu, and then chef Matt made the recipes. All menu options are under $12 and are the perfect size to accompany a glass of beer. Patrons can order any one of the twelve different brews on tap to go with their bar style food.

Customers at The Dinghy are provided with many amenities. As any casual bar should, The Dinghy offers multiple games

including a video game screen with card games and many more on the bar. They also offer corn hole, giant Jenga, giant connect four, and many more. The playful atmosphere includes a gigantic gong and a life size recreation of Han Solo frozen in carbonite. The Dinghy does not affiliate itself with any team in particular but has college game day and the NFL package. All fans are welcome. During the summer months The Dinghy had live music play every night during happy hour.

“The bands are what really brought the local people in,” says Bret. “People would hear the music and come to check it out.”

The bar still has bands play on Fridays and Saturdays during the off months, outside on the patio under an actual dinghy. Every day patrons are welcome to select their favorite music from the juke box and taste the $2 Dinghy Draft. The Dinghy also offers complementary phone chargers, unlike the average bar, instead of charging your phone behind the bar and having to ask the bar tender so you can check your messages, The Dinghy has individual lock boxes for your phone charging convince. Simply trade your ID for a key to a lock box with a charger for every type of phone. You can even lock your phone away at The Dinghy while you enjoy the beach for the day.

The best way to get a feel for the Dinghy is to go experience it yourself. Ask for Malcolm, Bret or Johnny.

“No one’s a stranger here.”

The Dinghy continues from cover

Johnny Yaquinto, general manager and bartender at the Mug Shot Board.



The Charleston County Assessor’s Office wants the public to be aware of a recently amended South Carolina law that affects the tax rate of homeowners with rental properties. The law

governs the four percent Legal Residence Exemption regarding owner occupied property that is rented for part of the year.

The change is effective starting the tax year 2014 and allows taxpayers to rent their properties for up to 72 days during the year and still qualify for the four percent Legal Residence Exemption. Prior to this change, the property could only be rented for 14 days during the year to qualify for the exemption. Prior years are not affected because the change is not retroactive.

Homeowners renting the property for all or part of the year must

promptly inform the Assessor’s Office in writing. Failure to notify the Assessor’s Office of the rental will result in a six percent tax rate billing and substantial penalties for each year of violation.

Homeowners who rent out their properties in 2014 must send a letter to the Assessor’s Office or they can fill out a special form. Using the form will prevent delays in processing. However, citizens are not required to use the form. Do not fax or email the letter or form. If the homeowner writes a letter, it must include the following information:

• Owner’s name• Owner’s original signature• Street address of the property• Parcel ID of the property• Daytime phone number Per South Carolina law, homeowners who rent their properties

for 72 days or less must also provide the following documentation annually beginning this year in order to qualify for the exemption:

• Copies of the first two pages of most recently filed Federal 1040• Copy of Schedule E from the owner’s most current federal tax

return• Copies of the first three pages of the homeowner’s most recently

filed South Carolina or other state’s income tax returnCitizens with questions should contact the Assessor’s office at

843.958.4100 and select Option #1.

Homeowners tax rates to change

STATE EXTENDS NUMBER OF DAYS HOMES CAN BE RENTED AND STILL QUALIFY FOR 4 PERCENT RATE

BY NATALIE HAUFFFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

"THE CHANGE IS EFFECTIVE STARTING THE TAX YEAR 2014 AND ALLOWS TAXPAYERS TO RENT THEIR PROPERTIES FOR UP TO 72 DAYS."



With special privilege, comes special responsibility, says Holly

Blair, Coastal Ecology Program Manager at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School. A magnet school, SIES is uniquely located beachfront, and appropriately has the county’s only Coastal Ecology Systems class as part of the curriculum, right alongside Physical Education and Art.

Blair teaches six to seven classes each day (Kindergarten through fifth grade), and students are encouraged to make scientific observations in the lab. Activities are tied in with common core standards.

“It’s important to teach the importance of the delicate barrier islands, how to live here and leave a smaller footprint, enhance rather than take away from it,” said Blair, who has a Bachelors in Education, a Masters in Marine Science, and 20 years’ experience in educating the public, including her work at the South Carolina Aquarium in 1998.

The school’s Coastal Ecology Lab Room features four ‘touch tanks,’ three of which are 50 gallon tanks that can be

relocated throughout the school for education purposes. The touch tanks will bring various marine species inside the classroom. There is a freshwater tank, a marsh estuary tank, and saltwater tank.

Little hands will not be going into the tanks, but rather “the kids will interact with the critters being brought out of the tanks,” explained Blair. The 100 gallon

tank is located in the ecology lab and will serve as a holding tank.

Right now, the tanks hold a few species commonly found close to shore, like the hermit crabs and mullet Blair collected. When the nature trail behind the school is “reclaimed,” said Blair, she will lead students into the surf and shore to collect more species themselves.

Blair wants to pass on her

passion and love for marine science to her students, in the hopes they will pass it along to their parents, cousins and friends.

“I want them to learn things like, don’t pick up a jellyfish on the beach and throw it at their friend. That jellyfish is a food for birds,’ she said. “Don’t collect all the shells on the beach to be put away in a garage somewhere. Those shells eventually crumble down and become sand. Don’t collect live sand dollars and bleach them for Christmas ornaments.”

The food and creatures sustain the beautiful island, she added, and that “if we lose one of them, we could lose them all.”

“A lot of people know the tropical rainforest holds more species than any other place on the planet. Most people don’t know that the salt marsh estuary is second only to the rainforest in biomass and number of species.”

Blair wants students to put down their electronics and slow down, and when they ride across the causeway, she wants them to see more than just mud and oysters.

Keeping students in touch with a delicate ecosystemH O L L Y B L A I R P I O N E E R S C O A S T A L E C O L O G Y E D U C A T I O N A T S I E S

BY MARCI SHOREISLAND EYE NEWS STAFF WRITER

PHOTO BY MARCI SHORE

Holly Blair and some of her students in front of a bulletin board they surprised her with.The Board reads: "We love science and Miss Blair."



DICK CRONIN, MAYOR1. Do you think IOP should implement a paid parking plan on the island?

While the population continues to grow in the Lowcountry, our beaches cannot grow. The proposed Parking Plan is a mechanism to establish a control on the volume of visitors who can safely enjoy our Island. Setting a specific number of passes for yearly, weekly and daily parking in the public rights-of-way will be a giant step. When all the passes are sold for a day, visitors will need to park in the lots or come another day. Significant details have yet to be worked out, we are driving to have the plan implemented for 2015. 2. How did the results of Stantec’s traffic flow and parking study impact your opinion on the plan for paid parking?

Stantec's work captured the ebb and flow of traffic during our summer months. On Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, the island absorbed 8,566 vehicles. That is to say at 1:45 p.m., 8,566 more vehicles had come onto the Island than had left on that day. Of that number 7,522 were absorbed into the parking lots or onto private property. The remaining 1,044 represent the peak of On-Street Parking. With these numbers the proposed parking plan seems quite viable. 3. What do you believe is the best long-term solution to the issue of parking on the island? What is the main issue you see parking addressing?

Our goal now and for the future is to make sure everyone on the Island is safe and secure and respectful of the beautiful island that we call home. While we will implement the proposed plan it will not be perfect from the start. The City will be refining it in the years to come as we learn. 4. What alternatives do you see for addressing this issue if you do not proceed with a paid parking plan?

Council has unanimously decided that doing nothing is not a viable option. In the past, the tools we plan to use to implement the sale and administration of passes was not available. Using an Internet based system, while new to our area, has been effective in other locals. Once we obtain SCDOT approval for this approach, the greatest obstacle will be communicating with all who enjoy our Island. 5. What do you believe should be done about the obstructions that are currently blocking 60% of the state right of way?

I don't believe there has been a material change in the number of obstructions in the rights of way over the past decade. While the City works to keep new obstructions from being put in place, the State DOT has the responsibility to enforce any action. To date their efforts have been ineffective. As a principal, this Council and prior Councils have felt everyone should be treated the same; how to make this happen has been the issue. We have chosen to deal with the Parking Plan and its implementation before working with the State on this issue. 6. Do you have any other comments about the public parking issue you would like to share?

I would like to thank our Planning Commission, a dedicated group of Island residents, who studied Traffic Congestion and Parking on the Island for a number of years. This plan implements the heart of their recommendations. I am also pleased that we are keeping Sullivan's Island in the loop as we progress. Both islands face the same issues when it comes to parking and traffic.

PATRICK HARRINGTON, IOP CITY COUNCILMEMBER1. Do you think IOP should implement a paid parking plan on the island?

I do. The visitors to the beach need to share in the cost of maintaining the beach, trash collection, and security.2. How did the results of Stantec’s Traffic flow and parking study impact your opinion on the plan for paid parking?

I am pleased with the pragmatic and professional study done by Stantec. We now have data to support a plan that would limit the number of vehicles on the Island. Our experience with vehicle gridlock on some weekends and holidays has demonstrated a need to control these unsafe situations. A paid parking system can help achieve this goal. 3. What do you believe is the best long-term solution to the issue of parking on the island?

As suggested above, I equate the parking issue (limitation) as being analogous to a sporting arena. If a stadium can fit 75K people, that’s the number of tickets allowed for sale. For the Island, I believe our study will eventually allow the city to determine the number of visitors we can accommodate safely. As presented by Stantec, the “paid pass program,” allows for the ability for us to adjust the program as we gather data. Again, the goal is to provide a wholesome and safe experience for both visitors and residents.4. What is the main issue you see parking addressing? What alternatives do you see for addressing this issue if you do not proceed with a paid parking plan?

As stated in #1, I strongly believe that visitors need to share in the expenses. Therefore, I will support a paid and limited parking proposal. 5. What do you believe should be done about the obstructions that are currently blocking 60% of the state right of way?

This is a contentious issue for sure. The “right of ways” are enforced by the SCDOT, not the City. SCDOT has demonstrated a reluctance to uniformly enforce right of ways. However, as we progress in the plan to reduce parking in certain areas and streets to achieve a balance to assure a safe environment for all, I believe all residents should be held to the same requirement. 6. Do you have any other comments about the public parking issue you would like to share?

It is incumbent that the City put in place a plan to limit parking a.s.a.p. This has been an issue that has received considerable attention and study for several years. We now have a blueprint to refine and then enact with citizen input.

SANDY FERENCZ, IOP CITY COUNCILMEMBER 1. Do you think IOP should implement a paid parking plan on the island?

On any given holiday or weekend, one need not look very far for safety violations regarding parking on the Isle of Palms. Even though there are two public parking lots, one City and one County, the historical truth is that parking occurs on the side streets and boulevards of our entire Island, with the exception of the Wild Dunes gated community. Excited children jumping out of their cars onto the street, is a fatality waiting to happen. Our issue on IOP is not just one of parking, but one of safety. To date, no one has presented me an optimum solution.2. How did the results of Stantec’s Traffic flow and parking study impact your opinion on the plan for paid parking?

The Stantec data presented what we already knew, but offered no creative solution other than limiting parking through the distribution of a finite number of paid passes. Admittedly no matter what parking plan is adopted, traffic flow and congestion will remain an issue when our island of 4,000 plus residents must absorb 8,000 plus cars. The critical flaw for me regarding the paid parking pass option is the fact that we, the tax-paying, full-time residents, will be penalized in order to allow day visitors to have a place to park. Why should we have to pay for guests to park on our street for a party? It has nothing to do with beach access!3. What do you believe is the best long-term solution to the issue of parking on the island?

I believe we should fill up both public lots before on street parking is allowed with strict enforcement. Create overlay residential areas

Parking continues from page 3



where no on-street parking is allowed. Develop one side parking only, to guarantee our emergency vehicles have clear access to all roadways. Beach access is a right and we gladly provide that for the majority of the visitors who seek a day at the beach. However, parking is a privilege and may not continue exactly as it has been in the past. Shuttles from the parking lots to other beach access paths may be an alternative to roadside parking.4. What is the main issue you see parking addressing? What alternatives do you see for addressing this issue if you do not proceed with a paid parking plan?

The main issue is safety! The safety of our residents, vacationers, and day visitors is paramount! In my opinion we should take over our roads from SCDOT, and create a plan designed to protect the safety of our residents, welcome responsible day visitors, and not be held to SCDOT approvals and restrictions for the plan we design. Other seaside communities have successfully done so, and we can lead the pack in innovation.5. What do you believe should be done about the obstructions that are currently blocking 60% of the state right of way?

The obstruction problem is one we inherited because SCDOT did not enforce its own regulations. Council has agreed that we will address this issue once a parking plan is determined. For some, the law is clear, and it should be enforced. A possible solution is to grandfather current obstructions but disallow future permits for obstructions, pursuant to our owning our roads.6. Do you have any other comments about the public parking issue you would like to share?

To be sure, we must address parking and traffic flow now. For too long it has been the "elephant in the room." No matter how unpopular the outcome might be, as elected members of Council we must step forward. I sincerely believe that we must expand our thinking to include the Isle of Palms Marina, 41st Avenue and Waterway Boulevard. It is not a matter of beach access but certainly one of safety. Trailer traffic on Waterway Boulevard any given weekend boggles the mind. The question being, where in the world will they all park? As a City owned property, the Marina property is not only an eyesore, but a "hodge-podge" of vehicle, boat, trailer and pedestrian traffic, screaming, accident. In the coming off-season months, I intend to consider the data, think creatively, act decisively and support a parking plan for IOP which will encompass our needs for the next 10-20 years and not simply be a Band-Aid for now. As we discuss and debate the options, our residents deserve nothing less than a well thought out, well executable, safety first plan.

JIMMY WARD, IOP COUNCILMEMBERI am withholding comments on the proposed parking plan until

after I have heard Isle of Palms residents' views at the Public Forum on October 2. It is very important to me how they feel about it.

MICHAEL LOFTUS, IOP CITY COUNCILMEMBER1. Do you think IOP should implement a paid parking plan on the island?

Parking has been a major concern for residents for some time and the situation is getting worse as the Tri-County population has increased. I feel that we should implement a paid parking plan that will allow the island to better manage parking while providing a safer environment. An additional benefit is that it would encourage carpooling, which would reduce traffic.2. How did the results of Stantec’s Traffic flow and parking study impact your opinion on the plan for paid parking?

I have been a supporter of a paid parking plan for some time. The Santec study validated the need to manage parking and traffic3. What do you believe is the best long-term solution to the issue of parking on the island?

I would like to see IOP have an ordinance to create a traffic overlay district that would have the bulk of paid parking on Palm Boulevard (19th Ave to 40th Ave). We need to have a small amount of additional paid spots north of 41st Ave and on Ocean Boulevard to keep IOP in compliance with the Beach Management Act. It is important to understand that this plan will limit parking and once the designated parking spaces are full, there will be no additional parking besides the City and County lots.4. What is the main issue you see parking addressing? What alternatives do you see for addressing this issue if you do not proceed with a paid parking plan?

IOP is a small barrier island and can only safely accommodate a certain amount of people, cars and traffic. Safety of residents and visitors are the main concern, as is the overall quality of life of islanders. The recent and projected growth in Charleston has created a critical breaking point for the island. Neighborhoods have been overrun with people parking in resident’s yards, sometimes leaving trash and behaving poorly. Understand that a vast of majority of visitors are respectful but the sheer volume has created a challenging situation that needs to be addressed. Having the visitors in a parking district will allow the City to manage the situation and limit confusion that visitors have about not knowing where and how to park.

5. What do you believe should be done about the obstructions that are currently blocking 60% of the state right of way?

By creating the Parking Overlay district on Palm Boulevard (Ocean), I would grandfather any current obstruction and prohibit new obstructions on Palm. 6. Do you have any other comments about the public parking issue you would like to share?

I feel parking is the most pressing issue we face on the island.

BARBARA BERGWERF, IOP CITY COUNCILMEMBER 1. Do you think IOP should implement a paid parking plan on the island?

People have had many ideas on how to control parking; No parking for day-trippers; Make them all park in city lots: Build a parking garage... But in realistic terms none of these things are possible. After studying this issue in planning commission and with City Council, the one real way to control the problem is to limit the number of cars coming on the island, and the way to do that is a pay to park system. Day-trippers to the island clog our roads, park without regard to driveways and leave their litter not only on the beach but on our lawns and streets. With the increased population in the Charleston area, the Island must come up with a systematic way to control the influx of traffic. Paying to park encourages day-trippers to use our City and County lots and controls the number of vehicles parking. If we had over 8,000 day trippers coming on the island on one Saturday in May, what will that number be 3, 5, 10 years from now? There are too many cars right now, so now is the time to put a system in place to cap the number of cars. We don't own the beach and we have a responsibility to welcome guests to the beach, but our ultimate responsibility is to our residents and that responsibility demands we face this problem now and set a standard that can be improved as time goes on. When is the island "full?" If people know they have to buy a permit to park they will plan ahead and get to the parking lots early or perhaps not come on the weekends. Establishing a program now is crucial to the future. 2. How did the results of Stantec’s Traffic flow and parking study impact your opinion on the plan for paid parking?

I was for a pay to park program before the study and the study just reinforced that belief. Parking and traffic are terrible now and will only get worse over the coming years. If we don't put a plan in place now it will be out of control in the future. We are a premier island and a wonderful place to live. Will that remain true if we are buried in traffic five months of the year? 3. What do you believe the best long-term solution to the issue of parking on the island?

See Number 1.4. What is the main issue you see parking addressing? What alternatives do you see for addressing this issue if you do not proceed with a paid parking plan?

Now is time for our elected officials to step up to the job at hand. Past Mayors and Council have kicked the can down the road. We have a chance to make a difference. No plan will be perfect and I'm sure it will have to be adjusted as we learn more, but to do nothing is unconscionable and in my mind will be a disaster for the quality of life our citizens want and deserve. To put it in the simplest terms, there are too many cars on the island and a paid parking plan can and will limit the number of vehicles. 5. What do you believe should be done about the obstructions that are currently blocking 60% of the state right of way?

Right now we have a finite number of spaces. If we implement a

Parking continues on page 12



pay to park program we can reduce the number of cars parking on the rights of way as they exist now. That will be an improvement. These are SCDOT rights of way and they have the power to clear them. They have ignored that problem. I am not going to vote to have my neighbors remove obstructions in order to create more parking for day-trippers. The first step is to limit the number of cars parking on the island where we go from there is open for discussion. 6. Do you have any other comments about the public parking issue you would like to share?

No plan is perfect and there will be many details to figure out. We can't be held hostage to these details. Some worry of the cost of implementing a parking plan. I would ask what is the cost to our Island if we do nothing?

RYAN BUCKHANNON, IOP COUNCILMEMBERThis Council has been working together to solve our parking

problems for the past few years. I have been on this City Council long enough to experience my share of indifference, vitriol, spitefulness and malevolence.

This year, for the first time in many years, the City unanimously passed its annual budget. Working together with the city's administration and team of department heads, we were able to work through problems, develop solutions and act as unified governing body. In that same light, we all realize that we need to work to develop a parking management plan, and we are so close to finalizing a finished product. We have accomplished this by working together, working through problems and our differences and after thoughtful candid discussions, we have voted unanimously to move forward on a number of resolutions that will help us ultimately put together a plan by the next beach season. I feel, and I may be the only one, but this questionnaire was more of a candidate's forum with the intention of trying to divide a Council that is already steadfast in solving this problem.

Yes, we, as a Council still have things to work out, and we may not always agree with each other, but recently we have shown that our resolve to alleviating the parking problem for our residents is paramount. To continue this work and deliver a sustainable parking program, we will need to work together and not have the progress that we have made be erased by creating a divisive Council.

Yes, we, as a Council still have things to work out and we may

not always agree with each other, but recently we have shown that our resolve to alleviating the parking problem for our residents is paramount and us to continue and deliver a sustainable parking program, we will need to continue to work together and not have all the progress that has been made be erased by a divisive questionnaire.

JIMMY CARROLL, IOP CITY COUNCILMEMBER1. Do you think IOP should implement a paid parking plan on the island?

I was elected by the residents of the Isle of Palms to help solve the ever-increasing traffic and parking problems our island is facing. As Charleston and the surrounding counties continue to grow, the burdens associated with the increased traffic and parking are negatively impacting the quality of life for our residents. We all believe our beaches are there for everyone, but as our Island’s vision statement says, “Measures that will enhance the existing character of the island as a quality place to live, and to protect the environment both on and around the island, must me taken to guide development and preserve the quality of life for generations to come.”2. How did the results of Stantec’s Traffic flow and parking study impact your opinion on the plan for paid parking?

I was actually surprised that there were not more cars coming. However, they are the professional traffic engineers we hired, they were hired to help us review the years of public meetings with comments and suggestions, to review the planning committee and Council discussions to help come up with a plan. I’m sure that there will be a learning curve on whatever we do. It will be revised as we go along, but we have to keep our Island’s residents involved and informed with what we do. Is this the perfect solution? I wish I could tell you. In fact, I just got back from a vacation to an island the size of Manhattan outside Portland, Oregon, it has about 1,200 residents, but in the summer, they are overrun with “townies,” our version of day visitors and they too had to do something because of traffic, pollution, and safety. They instituted a parking pass system. 3. What do you believe is the best long-term solution to the issue of parking on the island?

By starting with this plan, let’s give it a chance and see how it goes. I consider baby steps better than big bold moves that could back fire. 4. What is the main issue you see parking addressing? What alternatives do you see for addressing this issue if you do not proceed with a paid parking plan?

We also discussed taking over the roads and maintenance from the SCDOT, but if we did that, taxes would go up, and we would assume all liabilities associated with this. It was estimated that our annual cost to do this was just under 1 million a year or about a 4 mill increase. It’s not to say we won’t in the future, but we have to start somewhere. 5. What do you believe should be done about the obstructions that are currently blocking 60% of the state right of way?

Residents put in these obstructions because people were parking up in their yards, they were leaving trash and were going to the bathroom under their homes and in their yards. No, they should not have done this, but I understand why they did this. 6. Do you have any other comments about the public parking issue you would like to share?

I can hear some saying we are a bunch of elitist trying to keep people off our island. This is far from the case. There are three public beach communities, Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and the Isle of Palms. The rest of the beach communities are private. Of the three public communities, the Isle of Palms has spent millions buying large tracts of land for public parking; we have 56 beach accesses between Breach Inlet and 57th Ave. We have public restrooms located at the Front Beach commercial district where we have places to dine and shop. The Isle of Palms has done an incredible job providing beach access, however, because of the growth of the surrounding communities, our taxes are increasing every year because of the burdens put on our police, fire and public works departments by day visitors. Our residents and vacationers all have places to park and who pay taxes to help cover these cost, however, our day visitors pay a very minute fraction of these cost. This is not just an Isle of Palms problem, but one that should be shared by all the surrounding counties. Maybe it is time to think outside the box and think about mass transit to help get day visitors to the beaches. Thank you for reporting this, please follow my website www.ioptoday.com or the city’s website www.iop.net. Thank you for allowing me to serve the residents of the Isle of Palms.

MARTIN BETTELLI, IOP CITY COUNCILMEMBERNo response was received.

Parking continues from page 11



(above) Captain Kim Usry meets with a shopper at Harris Teeter. (top right) A visitor meets with IOP Police Officers at Harris Teeter. (right) IOP Police Chief Buckhannon meets with residents at Harris Teeter.

Coffee with Cops comes to Harris Teeter

PHOTOS BY STEVE ROSAMILIA

October 23Is land Eye CalendarSetpember 26ONGOING EVENTS TuesdaysMount Pleasant Farmers Market3:30-7 p.m. Corner of Coleman and Simmons Street

WednesdaysCafe Medley Wine Tasting Every Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., $5, $13 with cheese plate. 2213 Middle St. Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island. Call 843.793.4055.

Barn Jam6 – 10 p.m. The Awendaw Green Barn every Wednesday, 6-10 p.m. $5 at the door, all ages welcome. Enjoy a night of diverse music from around the globe on the uniquely bohemian ground of the Sewee Outpost. Wood fired pizza and fresh grilled oysters (while in season) will be available as well as libations. www.facebook.com/awendawgreen.

ThursdaysMah Jongg Nights (adults)Poe’s Library hosts Mah Jongg Thursdays at 6 p.m. Learn to play American Mah Jongg. No experi-ence necessary. 1921 I’on Avenue, 883.3914.

Nature Movie at SeeWee Visitor Center2 p.m. Call 843-928-3368 for more information.

SaturdaysPaddle Boarding SocialAll are welcome to join Sealand Ad-venture Sport's SUP-social, every other Saturday, starting this week-end, Sat. 27. 10 a.m. at Breach Inlet, call 843.330.8156 for exact time. Free if you BYOB, or $15 to rent a board.

Tae Kwon Do for SeniorsMust be 50 or older. 9-10 a.m. at the Isle of Palms Recreational Center. $35 resident fee and $40 non-resident fee. There is a drop in fee of $10 per class. For more information call 843.886.8294

Charleston Farmers Market8 a.m. to 2 p.m. rain or shine in Marion Square, 329 Meeting Street. A variety of local produce, plants, herbs and cut flowers as well as breakfast and lunch ven-dors, live entertainment and an as-sortment of juried arts and crafts from local artisans for visitors to experience.

ONGOINGLive Music at SoutherlyEvery night 6 to 9 p.m. Southerly Restaurant and Patio at Southern Season offers Live Music on the patio every evening from (11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays). Make the most of happy hour with appetiz-ers and craft beers and cocktails from our Patio Bar and unwind to the tune of local bands from the Lowcountry. Southern Season, 730 Coleman Blvd, 843.416.3965.

Friday, September 26Friday Night Firepits 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on the Village Plaza of Wild Dunes with a din-ner buffet and cash bar. Dining package cost is $40 for adults and $15 for children ages 5-12. . Call 843.886.2307 for reservations.

Saturday, September 27Pet Adoption Event at Morgan Creek Grill12- 4 p.m. Come meet your new best friend! Bring a donation of pet food, bedding, or toys for $1 off a

signature cocktail. Help us reach our $500 goal for the celebrity chili cook off on November 22. For more information email [email protected].

Tailgate Party on the Village Plaza 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Get the best seat in the house to watch the prime-time game on the large outdoor inflatable TV screen at Wild Dunes. Fill up on all your favorite tailgate foods at our casual, catered buf-fet. Dinner package cost is $35 for adults and $15 for kids. Compli-mentary for children 4 and under. Call 843.886.2307 for reservations.

East Cooper Habitat for Humanity new home dedication1 p.m. East Cooper Habitat for Humanity dedicates a completed home for new homeowner Barbara Rivers just off Rifle Range Road in Mt. Pleasant.

Sunday, September 28Endangered Species!11 a.m. Learn about local and international endangered species

like the red wolf, elephant, and turtles. See illegal wildlife products and learn the difference between illegal and legal wildlife items. Call the Sewee Visitor Center to register 843.928.3368.

monday, September 29Charleston Academy of Music Concert7:30 p.m. The Charleston Music Club will present faculty of the Charleston Academy of Music in a free concert in the chapel at Fran-ke at Seaside, 1885 Rifle Range Rd. followed by refreshments. Mu-sic will include a trio by Brahms. Call 442-4835 for more informa-tion.

Saturday, october 4IOP Connector Run and Walk for the ChildSee story page 23.

Mount Pleasant Pier Fishing Tournament: Cooper River Challenge6 a.m. – 2 p.m. Enjoy fantastic fishing at the foot of the Ravenel Bridge. Pre-registration ends Oct. 2. On-site registration begins at 6 a.m. Tournaments held rain or shine. For additional informa-tion, call (843) 762-9946. An adult chaperone is required for partici-pants ages 15 and under. Fees: $13/$10 CCR Discount; $8 for seniors or youth ages 3-12. $5 for Fishing Pass Holders.

monday, october 6Mount Pleasant Art Guild MeetingSee story page 24.

WedneSday, october 8Walk-To-School DaySee story page 17.

Friday, october 10That Big Book Sale Oct. 10 through 12, Friday, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.The Charleston Friends of the Library are proud to present That BIG Book Sale at the Omar Shrine Auditorium. Over 60,000 books, DVDs, CDs, books on CDs, sheet music and maps will be on sale to the public with prices starting at just $.50.

Saturday, october 11Afternoon Oyster Roast at Southerly Restaurant and Patio3 – 6 p.m. Nothing says fall in the Lowcountry like an oyster roast! Join us on the final day of our an-niversary celebration to enjoy the whole shebang – steamed oysters, saltines, pickled vegetables and plenty of hot sauce! $29. South-erly Restaurant, in Southern Seasons, Coleman Blvd, Mount Pleasant.

PLAY: STAR Therapy Dogs 10:30 a.m. Share books with a furry friend at the Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library on Sullivan’s Island.

Sunday, october 12Whole Foods Market Presents the WHOLE WEDDING SHOW1 – 4 p.m. Whole Foods Market Mt Pleasant invites the public to taste their way to the perfect wedding during their Whole Wedding Show that will take place at the Holiday Inn in Mt Pleasant located at 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd across the street from the grocer. Limited to the first 100 people. Admission is $10 at the door. To reserve your space email: [email protected].

Belk Preview Party5 – 8 p.m. Belk is ushering in a new era of shopping at its renovat-ed flagship store in Mount Pleas-ant with a preview party benefit-ing Lowcountry AIDS Services. Celebrate the arrival of high-end designers, an upgraded cosmetics bar and an expanded housewares selection at a sneak peek event at Belk in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre. A $20 donation gets spe-cial savings throughout the store, including a unique raffle table ben-efiting Lowcountry AIDS Services.

Saturday, october 18Book Club: The Invention of Wings Sue Monk Kidd’s book will be discussed at the Edgar Allen Poe Library Book Club. The club will convene at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to the discussion. There will be treats, coffee, conversation and of course book discussion. Contact Connie Darling at [email protected] or telephone 843.883.3914.

Sunday, october 19Tale of the Fish Culinary Event4 – 7 p.m. Hoist the anchor and begin your voyage to the Italian coast and discover the rich culi-

nary history of the Mediterranean and Adriatic coasts. Wild Dunes Resort is thrilled to host the first-ever “Tale of the Fish” culinary event, offering an unmatched “foodie” experience.

WedneSday, october 22Playground screening6 p.m. The Junior League of Charleston is hosting South Caro-linian director Libby Spears and offering a two-night screening and discussion of Playground, her 2009 documentary. The eye opening film focuses on the rampant child sex trade in the United States. Cine-barre 963 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mt Pleasant.

thurSday, october 23Pups, Yups, and Food Trucks5 – 8 p.m., Mount Pleasant Palmet-to Islands County Park. It’s a party in the park with your dog! You and your pup are invited to join us after work for live music performed by Dallas Baker and His Bluegrass Friends, beverages, and food from Charleston Choo! All dogs must remain on leash. No outside alco-hol or coolers permitted. Free event with your regular park gate admis-sion.


island eatsBen & Jerry’sEnjoy an array of ice cream flavors, from Chocolate Therapy to Peach Cobbler on Isle of Palms’ Ocean Boulevard$886-6314 www.benandjerrys.com1009 Ocean Boulevard, Isle of Palms, SC 29451

Café Medley Start your day or end it with a well rounded café, serving breakfast, lunch, and a glass of wine in the evening.$$793-4055 www.cafemedley.com2213 Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

High Thyme Cuisine A small island bistro with a wide range of dishes from seafood, tapas on Tuesdays, and a brunch on Sunday mornings. $$$883-3536 www.highthymecuisine.com2213 Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Home Team BBQNot limited to barbeque, this casual eatery also serves salads, wraps, tacos, and quesadillas, as well as Sunday brunch.$$883-3131 www.hometeambbq.com2209 Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Long Island CafeCome in for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch and enjoy all your favorite seafood plus so much more at this island favorite.$$886-8809www.longislandcafesc.com1515-A Palm BoulevardIsle of Palms, SC 29451

Luke N Ollie's Enjoy speciality pizzas, subs, burgers, wings, salads and a full bar. Delivery daily after 5 to IOP and Sullivan's.$$242-8121www.lukenollies.com1101 Ocean BoulevardIsle of Palms, SC 29451

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 80 41st Avenue Isle of Palms, SC 29451

Poe’s Tavern Famous for their gourmet burgers and chicken sandwiches, this Poe-inspired eatery also features great deals on fresh fish tacos. $$ 883-0083 www.poestavern.com 2210 Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC

SALT at Station 22Enjoy a fun atmosphere with fresh seafood and southern favorites, and a fresh, local raw bar. $$$ 883-3355 www.saltstation22.com 2205 Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

SaltWorks Dockside DeliLocated inside the Isle of Palms Marina Market, come enjoy fresh breakfast, smoothies, & sandwiches. Open from 7AM-3PM daily. $www.saltworkscc.com50 41st Avenue Isle of Palms, SC 29451

Sullivan’sGrab a casual dinner of fried flounder or crab cakes in a cozy atmosphere, as well as lunch on the weekends.$$883-32222019 Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Taco Mamacita Enjoy made-from-scratch “Tex Mex” soups, salads, tacos, and enchiladas, and quench your thirst with one of several specialty margaritas. $$ 789-4107 www.tacomamacita.com 2213-B Middle Street Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Crave Kitchen & CocktailsLocated just over the bridge from IOP, Crave's National Award Winning Chef proudly serves Low Country visitors and residents a unique casual fine dining experience! $$$(843) 884-1177www.cravekitchenandcocktails.com1968 Riviera DriveMt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Gilligan's Seafood RestaurantFor Family Friendly Fun- Gilligan's is the One! Patio and private dining available as well as daily and happy hour specials.$$(843) 849-2344www.gilligans.net1475 Long Grove Dr.Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Southerly Restaurant & PatioOpen for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, boasts a fresh seasonal menu highlighting local ingredients and contemporary cuisine, all with Southern flair. Our scenic outdoor patio is a lovely setting to savor a meal, while our elegant indoor spaces are perfect for receptions,

parties and meetings.$$(843) 416-3965www.southernseason.com730 Coleman Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Sewee RestaurantSee Wee Southern Style local Seafood, local farm to table veggies, sinful homemade desserts.$$(843) 928-3609www.seeweerestaurants.com/4808 N Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429

Stack's Coastal KitchenCome join us for lunch where we offer fresh soup, salads and sandwiches. Enjoy dinner in a casualbistro-style setting with a nice wine selection, full bar, and outdoor dining.$$-$$$(843) 388-6968www.stackscoastalkitchen.com1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd #1107 Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

off-island eats

The Sullivan’s Island Fire and Rescue Department, along with the Isle of Palms Fire and Rescue Department, are planning a Fire Prevention Parade and Display between the two departments.

This year’s event will be held on October 8, 2014. The parade will start at 4:30 p.m. on J.C. Long Blvd. at Isle of Palms Station 1. It will proceed through the two islands and finish at the Sullivan’s Island Station where a display will be set up to begin around 5:30 p.m.

There will be activities for the kids, including a Smoke House, Giant Slide and other entertainment. Refreshments will be served at no cost, so bring the family.

Fire Prevention Parade slated for Oct 8

BY CHIEF STITHFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

PHOTO BY STEVE ROSAMILIA

17September 26, 2014


Sullivan’s Island Elementary School is making the most of their new neighborhood by celebrating National Walk-To-School day on October 8. Students who live close enough are encouraged to walk to school

with their parents, while those who don’t live within walking distance are invited to meet at PrimeTime Fitness, 2120 Middle Street, at 7 a.m. that morning to walk together.

We will be greeted by members of the PrimeTime Fitness staff and Blue Barn juices will be there to get your day started with a healthy and delicious treat.

Parents, please join your children in celebrating National Walk-To-School Day by making the trek to school on foot. For those of you meeting at PrimeTime Fitness, the parking lot of SALT at Station 22 - across from PrimeTime Fitness will be open for you to leave your car for the (approximately) 30 minutes you will be gone.

Some tips for walking safely to school• Cross the street at intersections or crosswalks.• Look left, right, and left again before crossing.• Walk in pairs or groups.• Form a walking school bus/bike train (supervised group of children

walking/biking to school).• Don't talk to or take rides from strangers.• Wearbrightand/orreflectiveclothing,especiallyintheearlymorning

or late afternoon.

KEEP IT UP!Hitafitnessplateau?Gettingboredwithyour workouts?PrimetimeFitnessislaunchingitsFallFitness Frenzy, Monday through Friday, from October 1 - October 31 at 8 a.m. Drop the kids off at SIES and head down Middle Street to experience a new and different workout every day, Call Meredith at 843.883.0101 for details.

SIES celebrates National Walk-to-School Day, October 8

BY MEREDITH NELSONFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS


COMPUTER CORNER

The newest thing is hereBY BOB HOOPER

FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

With the availability of the new iPhone 6 and 6 Plus comes the new iOS 8. As

with any new Operating System make sure all your data is backed up either to the iCloud or through iTunes before you install it. When you install the new iOS things can happen and your pictures, notes, purchases, songs could disappear and we sure don't want that to happen. Previous versions of iPhones, including 4s and up, can upgrade to iOS 8. Having said that if you have a 4s you might consider not upgrading, as 8 has lots of features that use the larger screen and faster processor (the chip that makes the phone work). You also need at least 4 GB of memory available to do the upgrade.

The iPhone 6 made a splash and is all the rage right now, but if you have an Android phone don't worry your S5 is still a great phone and in some ways it seems like Apple is trying to catch up rather than lead. The Galaxy Note 4 is available for pre-order as of Sept. 19, the same day the iPhones went on sale and its screen is a bit bigger than the 6 Plus. It can be bought on Oct. 17

or if you pre-order be delivered on that day. The correct term for the Galaxy Note 4 and iPhone 6 Plus is a Phablet, a phone and tablet combined.

I remember "way back when" that the idea was to have the smallest phone to fit in the tiny purse or in a man's pocket without being noticeable. Now the larger the phone the "better to see you with" is the mantra. I do have a larger phone (S3) and most likely will upgrade to the cheaper iPhone 5 or 5s but I'm not sure I need to have such a large screen. I have heard it said that the older you get the larger you need the screen, so you can have REALLY BIG TEXT!

The iPhone will still be available, Samsung (and other makers) are coming out with the latest and greatest Android phone, and you can take your time to make a decision on what's good for you or even stay with what you have. One thing I can guarantee you is that the next iPhone or Android is just a few months away. The larger phone or phablet will most likely stay around for a bit, but if the smart watch concept catches on we may see a decrease in size

again. The new Apple "watch" is headed that way, but still requires an iPhone to work it, not sure I need another gadget that only works with the help of my phone.

Finally now is the time to consider what type of new laptop, desktop, tablet, etc. you are going to get for your loved one this Christmas. Take some time and check out what their use of the product will be, i.e. just surfing the net and email or business intense work.

If you have questions or want a pro to help with selection, purchase and setup please call or email me, Rent A Bob at 843.822.7794 or email at [email protected]. And yes my name really is Bob!


FINANCIAL FOCUS

Breach Inlet Tide Char tDate High Tide Low Tide

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

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It probably doesn’t happen as much as you’d like, but from time to time, you have some extra disposable income.

When this happens, how should you use the funds? Assuming you have adequate emergency savings - typically, three to six months’ worth of living expenses - should you pay off debts, or fund your IRA or another investment account?

There’s no one “correct” answer - and the priority of these options may change, depending on your financial goals. However, your first step may be to consider what type of debt you’re thinking of paying down with your extra money. For example, if you have a consumer loan that charges a high rate of interest - and you can’t deduct the interest payments from your taxes - you might conclude that it’s a good idea to get rid of this loan as quickly as possible.

Still, if the loan is relatively small, and the payments aren’t really impinging on your monthly cash flow that much, you might want to consider putting any extra money you have into an investment that has the potential to offer longer-term benefits. For instance, you might decide to fully fund your IRA for the year before tackling minor debts.

(In 2014, you can contribute up to $5,500 to a traditional or Roth IRA, or $6,500 if you’re

50 or older.) When it comes to making extra mortgage

payments, however, the picture is more complicated. In the first place, mortgage interest is typically tax deductible, which makes your loan less “expensive.” Even beyond the issue of deductibility, you may instinctively feel that it’s best to whittle away your mortgage and build as much equity as possible in your home. But is that always a smart move?

Increasing your home equity is a goal of many homeowners - after all, the more equity you have in your home, the more cash you’ll get when you sell it. Yet, if your home’s value rises - which, admittedly, doesn’t always happen - you will still, in effect, be

building equity without having to

divert funds that could be placed elsewhere, such as in an investment. In this situation, it’s important to weigh your options. Do you want to lower your mortgage debts and possibly save on cumulative interest expenses? Or would you be better served to invest that money for potential growth or interest payments?

Here’s an additional consideration: If you tied up most of your money in home equity, you may well lose some flexibility and liquidity. If you were to fall ill or lose your job, could you get money out of your home if your emergency savings fund fell short? Possibly, in the form of a home equity line of credit or a second mortgage,

but if you were not bringing in any income, a bank might not even approve such a loan - no matter how much equity you have in your house. You may more easily be able to sell stocks, bonds or other investment vehicles to gain access to needed cash.

Getting some extra money once in a while is a nice problem to have. Still, you won’t want to waste the opportunity - so, when choosing to pay down debts or put the money into investments, think carefully.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

What’s smarter-paying off debts or investing? BY DIMI MATOUCHEV

FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

“WHEN IT COMES TO MAKING EXTRA MORTGAGE PAYMENTS, HOWEVER, THE PICTURE IS MORE COMPLICATED."



Flags outside Isle of Palms’ Public Safety Building flew at half mast earlier this month, honoring former IOP Fire Chief Larry Britton, 58, who passed away September 8, 2014 while working for Charleston County as a Technology

Services and Radio Operator. The flags at Sullivan’s Island Fire Department were also lowered in his honor.

Britton worked as fire chief on the island during and after Hurricane Hugo hit, 25 years ago this month. He is survived by his son Larry Jr., two grandchildren and his wife Marsha.

“People like Larry Britton are a shining example of what it means to be a good person and a great employee,” said Charleston County Administrator Kurt Taylor. “He lived his life to service the public in so many different ways and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

IOP Honors Former Fire Chief

PHOTO BY STEVE ROSAMILIA

“The Multiple Crises in the Middle East”

W O R L D A F F A I R S C O U N C I L O F C H A R L E S T O N O P E N S S E A S O N

BY CHUCK BENSONHAVERFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

Dr. Barbara Sude, Senior Political Scientist for the RAND Corporation, will

speak at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8 at The Citadel Alumni Center. Her topic, very relevant to current events will be, The Multiple Crises in the Middle East: Where Are They Headed and What Can Washington Do About Them? She will answer questions at the end.

Dr. Sude has extensive experience working for our federal government where she specialized in the analysis of Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and counterterrorism. She earned her B.S. in Arabic Studies from Georgetown University and graduated from Princeton with a Ph.D. in Near Eastern Studies. Her research has been in Asymmetric Warfare, Counterterrorism and Iraq.

In our world of expanding globalization, understanding and clarification of current trends and events is increasingly important to us all. The World

Affairs Council of Charleston, in association with the national organization the World Affairs Councils of America, capably serves this need. Many barrier island citizens lead and serve as active members.

Our connection with The Citadel strengthens the mission and provides us an outstanding venue for our meetings, typically six per year. The Alumni Center is located at 69 Hagood Avenue, just across from the stadium. Parking is ample, close, and free. Members and guests assemble for the social hour, beginning at 5:15 p.m.

One can attend as a guest once, for $20. Individual membership is $100 and couple membership (any two individuals in a household) is $170.

One can join with a credit card/Pay Pal at our website, waccharleston.org or at the meeting. Come join us on October 8. You will be moved by your enhanced understanding. You will meet interesting people.


August 31 was not only the end of a busy Labor Day weekend, but a hectic

evening for the Sea Turtle Rescue Program at the South Carolina Aquarium’s Turtle Hospital. Three new patients were admitted. Very often holiday weekends are a deadly time for sea turtles because of increased boat traffic and other recreational activity and that Sunday before the holiday was no exception.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is responsible for rescuing live injured turtles along the coast of our state, but sometimes their staff needs extra help. For that reason they have equipped and trained several volunteers along the coast, including three of us on the Island Turtle Team, to help with picking up and transporting these cases to the Hospital.

The first call was for a green sea turtle, later named Bailey, in the Beaufort area. Holly Blair, science teacher at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School was in that area at Fish Creek near Bailey Island collecting sea life for her class to study and noticed a turtle floating in the water. Barb Gobien and Barbara Bergwerf picked up and transported Bailey.

Even though adult green turtles are larger than our 200-300 lb nesting loggerheads, most of the green turtles found in our area are juveniles and have a shell length of about 12-18 inches. This turtle is the largest ever treated at the Hospital at 23 inches and 33 lbs, and had old injuries, which included having the top jaw cut off and old wounds on the head and flippers. But in the case of green turtles, they feed on grasses and algae, and this turtle was surviving and eating and is still alive and under treatment.

The second turtle was a Kemps Ridley, the smallest and rarest of sea turtles in our area. Only loggerheads nest here, but juvenile greens and Kemps Ridleys are often found stranded because they migrate and forage here. Kemps Ridleys are often likened to dinner plates because of the shape of their shells, which are a little wider than they are long. Jenna Cormany of the SCDNR staff brought this one to the hospital. A boat strike had

critically shattered its lower jaw and it also suffered from severe brain trauma. Severe facial wounds such as this can make survival in the wild impossible. Even though everything possible was done to save it, the wounds proved to be fatal and it died

several days later.Finally another Kemps Ridley,

this one only about 11 inches in shell length, was reported at Seabrook Island in the late afternoon. Two members of the Seabrook Island Turtle Team met Mary Pringle and Barbara Bergwerf partway and handed off this small patient. It had bitten on bait from someone fishing in the North Edisto River that afternoon and had a circle hook embedded in the back of its mouth. It was called Seabrook and was relatively healthy with the only injury from the hook, which was successfully removed. Digital x-rays revealed not only the hook, but that it had dined on a large number of periwinkle snails, which looked like a string of pearls in its gut! Seabrook passed the snails out of his GI tract, and they are in a jar in the hospital now. The hook was successfully removed and Seabrook is on a course of antibiotics before release will be authorized.

It is amazing how resilient these sea turtles are, what they can survive, and also what they are able to eat. We are honored to be trusted with the responsibility of helping in the effort to save these lives.

Labor Day Weekend proved dangerous for turtlesBY MARY PRINGLE

FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

Digital x-rays revealed a large number of periwinkle snails in this Kemps Ridley named Seabrook. PHOTOS BY BARBARA BERGWERF


The Isle of Palms Connector Run celebrates its 22nd year on Saturday, October 4, 2014. The race offers a 5k run, 5k walk and a 10k run with one of the most scenic views in the South. All funds raised go

directly to local organizations for the prevention of child abuse right here in Charleston.

Come and support a great cause; then enjoy the entertainment the follows including: live band, children's fun and beer garden. Registration deadlines

•$25 for all 10K Runners, 5K Runners & 5K Walkers who register by 4/25/2014

•$35 for race registrations received 04/26/2014 to 10/2/2014•$40 for all race entries received between 10/3/2014 to 10/4/2014•Online registration closes October 2nd so late entries must be submitted

in-person during packet pick-up times. Register at ioprun.com/register/

Packet Pickup and Late Registrations•Friday, October 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Packet pickup will be held in

Mount Pleasant at East Cooper Medical Center•Race day, October 4 from 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.: Race packets will also be

available for pickup at IOP Public Safety Building, 30 J.C. Long Blvd Isle of Palms, SC 29451

RACE DAY SCHEDULE• 6 to 8 a.m.: Racers, runners, walkers, volun-

teers and fans arrive on the Isle of Palms for the race.

• 6:30 a.m.: Race Day late registration and packet pick up opens at the Public Safety Building – 30 J.C. Long Boulevard, Isle of Palms, SC

• 7 a.m.: The Isle of Palms Connector closes to alltraffic.UsetheSullivan’sIslandandBenSawyer Bridge to access the race.

• 8 a.m.: RACE START is at the intersection of J.C. Long Boulevard and Palm Boulevard.

• 9 a.m.: Post Race Celebration begins! Join us for live music, beer garden, awards ceremo-ny,sponsortentsandkid’sentertainment.

• 11:30 a.m.: Isle of Palms Connector opens to traffic(afterallparticipanthavesafelycom-pleted the race course).

• 12 p.m.: Enjoy the island and the wonderful beach.

22nd Annual Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child

R A C E D A Y I S S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 4STAFF REPORT

FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS



The Mount Pleasant Artists Guild launched their first meeting of the 2014/15 season on September 8 with enthusiasm and a

fine demonstration of pastel painting techniques presented by

Amelia Rose Smith.The MPAG meets the first Monday of each

month September through May. Our next meeting will be held on October 6 at the Mount Pleasant Council Chamber, 100 Ann Edwards Lane, Building C/D. A social begins at 6:30 p.m. in the lobby followed by a meeting at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

The guest artist for the evening is Beth Williams, a very accomplished artist whose medium of choice is pastels. Her paintings show an appreciation of natural beauty with a strong atmospheric feel and a sense of place.

For more information and to see her paintings go to her website at bethwilliamspastels.com. The Guild has several goals for promoting the arts in the community. Members are given many opportunities to learn from other artists and to exhibit their work. There are two art groups that meet on Wednesday and/or Thursday mornings at the Miriam Brown Community Center. Artists of all skill levels and anyone with an interest in art are welcome to join. For more information visit www.mtpleasantartistsguild.com or find the Guild on Facebook.

(top) Members of the Mount Pleasant Artists Guild Board met at the home of Becky Taylor to plan for the 2014-15 season. Left to right; Kathy Bates, Mary Gair, Marilyn taylor, Faye Sullivan, Ginny Paternite, Jeny McCullough, Barbara Smith, Gayle Lauderdale, Barbara Reddy, and Sandra Booker. (above) Amelia Rose Smith, guest speaker at the September meeting of the MPAG, displays her work.

Artist Guild launches 2014/15 seasonBY JEANNE KAY JUHOSFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS


Seasons

Southof the

WINE PAIRING

For the blue cheese biscuits, we’re recommending the El Circulo 2012 Rioja Tempranillo. It’s got bright acidity and young, vivacious cranberry, cherry, and black pepper notes.

In the South, the humble biscuit is relegated to “side” status at many meals and gatherings. It’s time to let your biscuits shine with this twist on a Southern classic! Makes 30 miniature biscuits

Ingredients•3cupssoftwhiteflour(SouthernBiscuitorsimilar)•1 heaping tablespoon baking powder •1/2 teaspoon soda•1 teaspoon salt•1 teaspoon sugar•12 tablespoons cold shortening, cubed•1 1/3 cups cold buttermilk•1/4 pound blue cheese, plus a little extra for putting inside the

biscuit•Softened butter•Fig chutney, for service•Prosciutto-style Johnston county country ham, for servingDirections1. Heat oven to 450°2. Sift dry ingredients3. With a pastry blender, cut in cold shortening until coarse with

afewlumps.Addgratedorfinelycrumbledcheese.4. Stir in buttermilk with a spatula until a loose ball forms.5. Kneadonaflouredsurface4-6timesuntildoughisnolonger

sticky.6. Use a small biscuit cutter and cut out the biscuits, dipping the

cutterinflourfrequently.7. Place biscuits close, but not touching, on a parchment-lined

sheet pan.8. Bakefor15minutes,turninghalfwaythroughbaking.9. Brushwithsoftbutterandserveimmediatelywithfigchutney

and country ham.

Blue Cheese Biscuits with Fig Chutney

BY MARILYN MARKELFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

Note: Not a fan of blue cheese? Not a problem. You can substitute most medium textured cheeses. We made it with Somerdale Red Dragon Mustard Seed and Ale cheese and it was delicious. You may also follow the directions for your favorite biscuit mix and add the blue cheese when rolling the dough, or add mild herbs such as chives, parsley or dill. Let your creativity shine and create your own version.



ROADTRIPS CHARLESTON

My book club, The Venuses of Willendorf, has been together for 20 years.

We’ve read hundreds of books, classics to best sellers. So no judgments please when I tell you that our recent book, Keeper of the House, is about a famous Georgetown brothel The Sunset Lodge. Open from 1930 to 1969, it was described by Post and Courier as “perhaps the most widely known site in South Carolina, with the exception of Fort Sumter.” Sailors would return to the port in Charleston and immediately head up the highway to Sunset Lodge by the busload. After it closed, the property was purchased by a local couple who made it their home. “For years and years, we’d have ten cars a day… asking for Sunset,” they reported.

A lot of visitors are also dropping by another house just up the road. The Beatties are only the fifth family to own and live at Hopsewee Plantation since it was built between 1733 and 1740. Protected from developers and now a National Historic Landmark, the 70 acres sit grandly

on the banks of the North Santee River. Centuries-old oaks drip with Spanish moss. Flourishing camellias and forsythia abound. The plantation house has been preserved throughout its life and is not a restoration although modernizing elements such as plumbing and a practical kitchen have been added. Eighteenth century architectural elements include hand-carved lighted-candle molding and thick random-width heart pine floors. The house’s durability is attributable to its brick and scored tabby foundation and black cypress construction. As the daily tours begin, modern conveniences are carefully tucked behind antique furniture since the home is still occupied.

It was originally built as a country get-away by Thomas Lynch Sr. who owned seven plantations in the area. In the mid 1800’s, Georgetown plantations produced over 36 million pounds of rice a year, second only to India. Hopsewee and its 178 slaves were renowned for Carolina Gold rice. Our tour guide Jean Efird explained, “It

was slave knowledge and slave expertise that got this to be as successful as it was. They knew how to make marshes into rice fields and build trunks to flood the fields.” Descendants of these slave families lived in some of the cabins until the 1940’s, two cabins of which remain today and are on the Gullah Geechee Corridor.

Thomas Lynch Sr. was prominent in the politics of our developing nation and was appointed with Benjamin Franklin to advise General Washington in 1775. Unfortunately, a year later he suffered a paralyzing hemorrhage. Unable to come to Philadelphia, his son Thomas Lynch Jr. was selected to serve the Continental Congress creating the only father/son pair to ever do so. The younger Lynch was only 26 years old when he signed the Declaration of Independence. A replica of the document hangs in the house with a space left for the missing signature of Thomas Lynch Sr.

We also heard romantic stories of less famous inhabitants. Clearly visible in the original window glass is the inscription “MRL 1906”. Charlotte Lucas was

showing off her new

engagement ring from George Lafaye by etching initials and the date into the window. Apparently that was a tradition, especially if you’d received the plantation as a wedding gift as she had.

The story of today’s owners began in 2000 when Frank Beattie heard that the previous owners of Hopsewee were selling it to developers and stopped by. He was told that the owners were reluctant to see the property developed and hoped to find a buyer who would care for the Plantation and its legacy. Raejean Beattie finishes the story: “He came home one day and said ‘We’re buying Hopsewee Plantation.’ I said ‘you’ve obviously gotten far away

The 70 acres are covered with carefully maintained historic buildings and gardens.

High Tea at HopseweeBY CAROL ANTMAN

FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

If You Go:Hopsewee Plantation is just south of Georgetown on Hwy. 17, www.hopsewee.com Keeper of the House by Rebecca Godwin



from the bill paying… .’” But buy it they did. They moved in and started to give tours of the house and its historic property. Then another serendipitous meeting occurred. The Red Hat Ladies wanted to bring a group for the tour but they wanted Raejean to serve tea. It was such a hit that it became another business. Now a new sunny outbuilding does double duty as the cafe and the Beattie’s after-hours den. Raejean supervises the kitchen. On the day my book club visited, several tables of diners were enjoying lunch as we indulged in a beautifully laid high tea complete with little sandwiches, ginger snaps, quiche, salmon mousse, scones and several flavorful teas.

While we sipped, our lively discussion of the book recounted the steamier episodes of Mignon, the painted ladies, their paramours and Georgetown’s citizens. We noticed other diners eavesdropping. One woman asked for the book title so she could join the fun. But we just were enjoying ourselves, learning about the noble and ignoble pasts that weave together into history.

Roadtrips Charleston! is a feature of Lucky Dog Publishing. Each month the

column presents adventurous, interesting destinations within a few hours drive of Charleston. Carol Antman’s passion for outdoor and artistic experiences has led her to exotic and nearby destinations far and wide. For suggestions, comments and to view more images please see www.peaksandpotholes.blogspot.com

T he Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd will

be discussing the next book discussed at the Edgar Allen Poe Library Book Club. The club will convene October 18 at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to the discussion. There will be treats, coffee, conversation and of course book discussion. Hetty "Handful” Grimke, an urban slave in early nineteenth century Charleston, yearns for life beyond the suffocating walls that enclose her within the wealthy Grimke household. The Grimke’s daughter, Sarah, has known from an early age she is meant to do something large in the world, but

she is hemmed in by the limits imposed on women.

For more information contact Connie Darling at [email protected] or call 843.883.3914.

Invention of Wings at Poe Book Club

BY CONNIE DARLINGFOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

Island Eye News - September 26, 2014

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Transcript of Island Eye News - September 26, 2014