There's No Place Like Home

5.23.10 - PICCOLO SPOLETO / Charleston Jewish Jazz Ensemble / JAZZIN' THE SPIRIT

2010-05-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

PICCOLO SPOLETO AT BSBI SYNAGOGUE:

CHARLESTON JEWISH JAZZ ENSEMBLE

June 1, 2 and 3 at 7:30pm

Brith Sholom Beth Israel Synagogue, 182 Rutledge Ave.

Admission: $26

A concert of Jewish jazz with a repertoire of Klezmer (Jewish soul music), Yiddish swing standards and vocal/instrumental comedic parodies of Mickey Katz. The Klezmer pieces are infused with the exhilarating melodies of Eastern Europe, with considerable gypsy influences. The ensemble includes: Tomas Jakuvek, violin; Charles Messersmith, clarinet; Cameron Harder

Handel, trumpet; Tom Joyce, trombone; Mike Wolk, piano; Roman Pekar, bass; Nikolai Svishev, guitar; Jeff Handel, drums and Ian Kay, director, saxophone/vocals. Needless to say, it will be a rousing night of fun and exceptional musicianship! For more information please call (843) 577-6599, or visit: www.charlestonjewishculture.com.

JAZZIN' THE SPIRIT
Jazz Image

June 3 at 6pm

Robert Mills Manor Courtyard, 20 Franklin St.

Admission: Free

The Housing Authority of the City of Charleston presents a community festival and jazz concert featuring performances from the renowned Oscar Rivers and the talented children of the Jake's Music program.

5.23.10 - PICCOLO SPOLETO / Harbor Cruises contd.

2010-05-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

SEAN DANIELS QUARTET-Enjoy an evening of jazz, featuring Dr. Sean Daniels, vibraphone; Joe Davidian, piano; John Birdsong, string bass and Thomas Spann Jr., drums. The Quartet plays songs by Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and other notable jazz composers. June 3.

JOHN TECKLENBURG & FRIENDS-Join Lonnie Hamilton III, John Tecklenburg, Brian Reed and Chuck Dalton and Gerald "Cameo" Williams as they serve up a night of swinging jazz standards while cruising the Charleston Harbor. June 8.

ROLLING ON THE RIVER REVUE-Delighting Charleston audiences for more than three decades, Rivers and Company is known throughout the state as the premier beach music and Motown band. June 10.

5.23.10 PICCOLO SPOLETO / Harbor Cruise

2010-05-23T14:19:00.002-07:00

PICCOLO SPOLETO HARBOR CRUISES
Harbor Cruises

Spirit of Charleston, 360 Concord St.; Fountain Walk Dock Boarding at 7:30pm; Cruise from 8pm to 10pm

Admission: $16, Food and drink available for purchase

FRANKLIN ASHLEY QUINTET-Join Franklin Ashley, Don Nordquist, Teddy Adams, Brian Reed, Rich Robinson, Tony Burke and Becca Hodges for a swinging evening to tunes from the Great American Songbook. June 1.

5.23.10 JOhn STreet JAzz

2010-05-23T14:19:00.001-07:00

JOHN STREET JAZZ

May 30 and June 6 at 3:30pm and 5:45pm

Gallery Chuma, 43 John St.

Tickets: $21

John Street Jazz
Listen as Charleston's finest vocalist Ann Caldwell and her ensemble "LooseFitt Band" interpret the emotions, rhythms, spirituals and experiences encountered in the Gullah paintings through her musical improvisations. Complimentary drinks and heavy Hors d'oeuvres from Gullah Cuisine Restaurant will be provided for each concert.

5.23.10 - JAC - JAZZ SERIES / Upstairs McCrady's

2010-05-23T14:17:00.000-07:00

JAC JAZZ SERIES

Upstairs at McCrady's Restaurant, 2 Unity Alley

Set I at 7pm and Set II at 10pm, *unless noted.

Tickets: $20 advanced/set; $25/day-of set, *unless noted.

*To purchase tickets by phone for this series, call (843) 641-0011 or online HERE

Station NY CHS

STATION NY/CHS-Lee Barbour and John Ellis join together to open this year's series, a collaborative force shining light on the remarkable connection Charleston and New York maintain. Ellis is on the momentum of his CD release Puppet Mischief with his group Double-Wide, a product of his New Orleans roots. Lee Barbour recently returned to Charleston after a year of being in New York. This show highlights many of Barbour's original compositions and fresh arrangements on standards. Next stop - Station NY/CHS! May 28.

Leah SuarezLEAH SUAREZ & FRIENDS-Vocalist and Charleston native Leah Suárez performs a range of music that includes American jazz standards, Brazilian samba and bossa nova, and world folk music, finding equal passion in creating and sharing her original compositions. Blending traditional jazz with strong Latin influences, Leah's captivating stage presence and sophisticatedly intricate and soulfully sultry sound make for an engaging and dynamic performance. May 30.

KopajaKOPAJA-KOPAJA is a quartet of Charleston's finest contemporary musicians. The group takes its inspiration from modern jazz, indie rock, country, classical and contemporary chamber music, and eastern European folk music to create original compositions in a unique and spellbinding, improvisational way with palpable joy. This eclectic ensemble, featuring the flugelhorn, accordion, guitar, bass and drums, is a delight for any Bohemian heart. May 31.

Holy City HomecomingHOLY CITY HOMECOMIN' FEATURING HYMNS & SPIRITUALS-Uniting the elements of inspiration and improvisation, the Mark Sterbank Jazz Group explores familiar hymns and spirituals with swinging enthusiasm. A favorite of audiences of all ages, Hymns & Spirituals is sure to lift your spirit and set your toes to tapping. The group features the talent of Fred Wesley on trombone, Charlton Singleton, trumpet, Tommy Gill, piano, Herman Burney, Jr., bass, Quentin Baxter, drums and Mark Sterbank, saxophone. June 1. Tickets: $30/show.

Tommy Gill TrioTOMMY GILL TRIO-Led by highly acclaimed pianist Tommy Gill, this trio performs a wide variety of jazz standards and original music, featuring three of the region's finest musicians. Gill will be performing as a piano trio with Ron Wiltrout on drums, and Wayne Mitchum on electric bass. This performance is a special treat by one of Charleston's favorite and legendary performers! June 2.

MorimotoMORIMOTO +1-Morimoto, a local favorite, will present its adventurously contemporary, fresh and nuanced original music and fluid arrangements on jazz standards in a setting atypical of their "jazz rock" style. The core trio features bandleader and guitarist David Linaburg, Gerald Gregory, piano and Nick Jenkins on drums. This performance will also feature the addition of Ben Wells on bass. This rare acoustic performance for Morimoto is one not to be missed. June 3.

TriodelayTRIODELAY-This modern jazz trio combines elements of the classic old with the inventive new to create a refreshing sound, transcending the generational divide. TriOdelay's repertoire ranges from arrangements on classic jazz standards to interpretations of more recent popular songs. Ben Willis and Jeff Loehrke will join guitarist Tyler Ross by way of Chicago, reuniting for a Southeastern tour debuting their first full-length album Departure. June 5.

TumbaoTUMBAO-Tumbao is a culmination of the hottest Latin jazz players in town. The group is led by Fernando Rivas and David Heywood, two of the most formidable musicians in the area, with an extensive background in the many and varied Latin rhythms. These seasoned musicians present a diverse selection of popular Latin repertoire from salsa and bolero to bossa nova and samba, including original music that is sure to bring the heat. June 6.

Charleton SingletonCHARLTON SINGLETON SEXTET-Trumpeter Charlton Singleton has dazzled local audiences with entertaining and inspiring performances in a wide range of genres. This educator, bandleader, composer and arranger's ensemble maintains a rich and diverse repertoire of original music, as well as familiar jazz standards. Singleton's exceptional ensemble is backed this year with the addition of trombonist Mitch Butler, making the sextet's debut for this year's series. Come hear the Charleston Jazz Orchestra's bandleader at work - a "honey dripper", indeed. June 7.

Duda LucenaDUDA LUCENA QUARTET-Brazilian guitarist and vocalist Duda Lucena returns to the series to perform with bandmates Gerald Gregory, piano, Kevin Hamilton, bass, and Quentin Baxter, drums. This quartet fuses rhythms and music centered upon Brazilian bossa nova, baiao, maracatu and samba, with the African roots of jazz to shape a new and modern style of song. A night of Brazilian music from one of Charleston's favorite performers. June 8.

Tenor MadnessTENOR MADNESS-Tenor Madness returns to the series this year after two incredible sold-out performances for its debut last year Upstairs at Mistral. Robert Lewis and Mark Sterbank, two local collegiate jazz educators, team up for a night of swinging fun featuring some classic twotenor repertoire and new original compositions. This featured duo is backed by Charleston's most talented rhythm section, and is sure to be one of this year's most memorable performances. June 9.

Cobblestone QuartetCOBBLESTONE QUARTET-This jazz quartet features local legend George Kenny on saxophone, a retired music educator and performer who has influenced many generations of musicians in the area. The Quartet appeals to a diverse audience, performing compositions from the likes of Ellington, Gershwin, Miles Davis, Jobim and more from the Great American Songbook. June 10.

Charleston All-StarsCHARLESTON ALL-STARS FEATURING RON FREE-Drummer Ron Free leads an all-star rhythm section for an evening full of special guests, featuring the best of the best. Free is a quintessential Charlestonian who can drive a band, color soloists and offer up well-executed, subtle rhythms. He is representative of the archetypal Charleston jazz musician. An unforgettable one time show - a perfect way to close this sizzling jazz series. June 11 at *8pm only. Tickets: $40.

5.23.10 - FUD LIVINGSTON

2010-05-23T14:16:00.000-07:00

JOSEPH "FUD" LIVINGSTON-This cabaret affair celebrates Charleston songwriter/arranger, Fud Livingston and his career as a big band arranger during the swing era. Features Brad Kay, pianist and author of the CD liner notes for Fud Livingston (Jazz Oracle, 2009). Riviera Theater, 225 King St. June 6 at 6pm. Admission: $21.

5.23.10 - Nothin' Could Be Finer: CJI's LEGENDS FESTIVAL GALA

2010-05-23T14:15:00.000-07:00

NOTHIN' COULD BE FINER: CJI'S LEGENDS FESTIVAL GALA-Features Ellis Marsalis, patriarch of New Orleans' jazz family with a Legends Band Concert and live recording; premiere of Slide Hampton's Legend's Festival composition and performance of Jimmy Heath's "Without You, No Me," a tribute to Dizzy Gillespie. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St. Black Tie (optional). June 5 at 7pm. Admission: $51; Students free/reservations required - RSVP to: info@charlestonjazz.net or (843) 953-4843 by June 1.

5.23.10 Perserving SC's Jazz Legacy

2010-05-23T14:14:00.000-07:00

PRESERVING SOUTH CAROLINA'S JAZZ LEGACY-
View photographs, letters, music scores, and other material from CJI's Collection. Features a talk with the legendary Heath Brothers - tenor saxophonist Jimmy Heath and drummer/percussionist Albert "Tootie" Heath and book signing (I Walked With Giants: The Autobiography of Jimmy Heath). Avery Research Center, 125 Bull St. June 4 at 8pm. Admission: Free, limited seating - RSVP to: info@charlestonjazz.net or (843) 953-4843 by June 1.

5.21.10 Jazzed Fest: LEGENDS MASTER CLASS

2010-05-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

JAZZED FEST: LEGENDS MASTER CLASS-Slide Hampton™! and Jimmy Heath, world-class bandleaders and National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters, discuss their careers, and composing and arranging techniques with musicians and the public. Marion and Wayland H. Cato Jr. Center for the Arts (Room 234), 161 Calhoun St. June 4 at 5pm. Admission: Free, limited seating - RSVP to: info@charlestonjazz.net
or (843) 953-4843 by June 1.

5.23.10 - Jazzed Fest: THE CHARLESTON

2010-05-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

JAZZED FEST: THE CHARLESTON-One hundred and 180 fourth graders from Hilton Head Island School for the Creative Arts perform The Charleston, an original musical about Charleston's acclaimed Jenkins Orphanage Bands. The Sottile Theatre, 44 George St. June 4 at 3:30pm. Admission: Free, RSVP to: info@charlestonjazz.net or (843) 953-4843 by June 1.

2010 - SC's Jazz Legend

2010-05-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

CHARLESTON JAZZ INITIATIVE: LEGENDS FESTIVAL
Houston Person

SOUTH CAROLINA'S JAZZ LEGEND: HOUSTON PERSON LIVE!-Hear Florence, S.C. native tenor saxophonist and two-time Grammy finalist Houston Person perform and discuss his career at this jazz luncheon. Stern Center Gardens/College of Charleston, 71 George St. June 4 at
11am. Admission: $36 Adult; $16 Student. Attire: Summer white with a splash of color!

2010 - City of Folly Beach letter to visitors

2010-05-23T12:40:00.000-07:00

CITY OF FOLLY BEACH
IMPORTANT LETTER TO ALL VISITORS TO FOLLY BEACH

The City of Folly Beach welcomes you to our beautiful community. We hope your visit will be fun for you and your family and you will visit again. There is one thing you can do which will help make your visit more enjoyable and prevent you or members of your family from being ticketed by the Department of Public Safety. READ THE FOLLOWING RULES AND REGULATIONS as they are strictly enforced. Thank you.

PARKING REGULATIONS:

# 1. No parking on pavement. All 4 tires must be off the road.
# 2. No parking on sidewalks.
# 3. No parking in front of public or private driveways.
# 4. No parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
# 5. No Parking in a Crosswalk.
# 6. No stopping, standing, or Parking in a roadway.
# 7. No diagonal parking unless posted. All parking is parallel.
# 8. No parking on Dunes or Revetments.
# 9. No parking the wrong way. All vehicles must park with the flow of traffic.
# 10. No parking in Handicapped spaces unless visible handicapped license tag or visible permit on vehicle.

DOGS are not allowed on the beach from 10 am to 6 pm from May 1st to Sept. 30th. At all other times they must be leashed and under control. Pick up your dogs waste and remove from the beach.

NO OPEN CONTAINERS OF ALCOHOL are allowed.

NO GLASS is allowed on the beach.

NO OPEN FIRES or FIREWORKS are allowed at any time.

NO LITTERING. IF YOU ARE GOING TO THE BEACH, PLEASE BRING GARBAGE BAGS AND TAKE TRASH TO CONTAINERS FOUND AT THE EACH BEACH ACCESS. Have BEACH PRIDE and help us keep our beaches clean so you and others can enjoy it now and in years to come.

SURFING without a leash is prohibited. From May 15th to Sept. 15th surfing is prohibited from 10 am to 6 pm from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West, known as the swimming zone. From September 16th to May 14th, surfing is allowed in any area except surfing is always prohibited 200' from the fishing pier.

GOLF CARTS must display a valid Highway Department sticker, be driven by a licensed driver, and have insurance. They cannot be driven on Center Street, only on secondary streets within 2 miles of owner's residence, and only in daylight hours.

PARTY PERMITS are required for all gatherings of 25 persons or more; for gatherings of 75 persons or more require a party permit and city council approval. Permit applications are available at the Public Safety Department in City Hall and on the city's web site, www.cityoffollybeach.com.

SAND DUNES are protected and fragile. Beach Sea Oats and grass help protect the dunes. Stay off the dunes and use public walkovers, located at every block, to access the beach.

PERSONAL ITEMS LEFT ON THE BEACH after sunset, such as tents, canopies, coolers, volley ball nets, and umbrellas, shall be considered abandoned and the City has the right to take possession and dispose of said items. Please make sure you have all your personal property when you leave the beach.

WATERCRAFT can be stowed on the beachfront for 12 hours without a permit. They must not be pulled into the dunes or sand fences. All watercraft must be removed from the beach if high winds or tides are expected. Permits to stow watercraft can be obtained at Public Safety. 588-2433

SEA TURTLES are an endangered species. Do not interfere with them in any way. No lights are allowed that illuminate the front beach after 10 pm May 1st thru Sept. 31st. Hatchling turtles are disorientated by artificial light. Fill holes dug in sand before you leave the beach. If you see any adult sea turtles or hatchings call 588-2433 to report your sighting.

HOUSEHOLD GARBAGE is collected on Monday and Thursday. YARD TRASH on Tuesday and Thursday, and METAL on Friday. For collection of large items or quantities call Public Works at 588-2447.

STRONG RIP CURENTS are common so swim with caution . Charleston County Park provides lifeguards at the West End County Park and from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West beachfront from May through Labor Day.

All City Ordinances can be found on: www.cityoffollybeach.com
City of Folly Beach Ordinances Enforced with Fines not to exceed $500.00

Have fun and let us know if there is anything we can do better and which will make your visit to Folly more enjoyable. We appreciate your input.

Tim Goodwin
Mayor
843-513-1835
tgoodwin@cityoffollybeach.com

Toni Connor-Rooks
City Administrator
843-513-1834
tconnor@cityoffollybeach.com

2010 _ Summertime at Folly

2010-05-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

June 2010
4 Folly Beach Moonlight Mixers Shaggin on the Pier 7p - 11p

5 A Summer Celebration 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

25 Folly Beach Moonlight Mixers Shaggin on the Pier 7p - 11p

July 2010
4 Folly Beach, SC 4th of July Celebration All Day

15 Evening Concert Series Reggae Nights

16 Folly Beach Moonlight Mixers Shaggin on the Pier 7p - 11p

August 2010
7 A Summer Celebration 11 a - 7 p

13 Folly Beach Moonlight Mixers Shaggin on the Pier 7p - 11p

19 Evening Concert Series Reggae Nights

5.23.2010 - 2010 Piccolo Spoleto

2010-05-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

2010 Piccolo Spoleto
Openings for Visual Arts Exhibitions - Part 1

YO ART PROJECT

May 16 to June 16; Open Mon.-Thurs. from 9am-8pm; Fri.-Sat. from 9am-6pm; Sun. from 2-5pm

The exhibition features 25 exciting posters and photos by kids between the ages of 7 to 15 from three Title One Schools in the Tri-County area and from the Meeting Street Manor and Bayside Housing residences. These photos and posters illustrate the children's individual creativity as well as an insight into their community. The Yo Art Project is both an in-school and after-school program mentoring kids, building self to esteem, job skills, with an academic focus and a sense of community through computer art workshops, exhibitions, and public art projects.

Charleston County Main Library, 68 Calhoun St.

Admission: Free
For more information, CLICK HERE

RHYTHMS OF LIFE, AN ISLAND PERSPECTIVE
Rhythms of Life

May 18 to June 29; Open Daily from 10am-6:30pm

Opening Reception: June 3 from 4:30-6:30pm

Evolution of lifestyles, changing marshes, thriving habitats, sunset ocean views, cycles of loggerhead turtles, quaint beach houses all reflect the pulse of a verdant life close to the ocean. Our lifestyle in Charleston, close to the beaches, revolves according to the elements. Much like the shore creatures that embellish our life with riches, we, too, have a rhythm that moves with the winds, tides, sun, and moon. Sometimes the human cycle is influenced by the winds of the hurricane, sometimes the winds of change. Styles employed in the paintings featured in this exhibit vary from an abstract piece finding its way, to impressions, to realistic studies.

Bella Vista Bridal, 211 King St. (behind Saks Fifth Avenue); Admission: Free

CONTEMPORARY CHARLESTON 2010: INFLUENCE

May 20 to July 3; Open Daily from 10am-6pm

Poetry Reading: May 28 at 7pm; Artist Lectures: June 5 at 2pm: Scott Debus and Jocelyn Châteauvert; June 12 at 2pm: Kat Hastie and Lynne Riding

Contemporary CharlestonThe City Gallery at Waterfront Park offers viewers a rich union of two separate and distinct artistic disciplines as 10 local visual artists are influenced by 10 local poets' words to create new works. Visual artists are: Jocelyn Chateâuvert, Julio Cotto, Scott Debus, Kat Hastie, Sarah Haynes, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Hirona Matsuda, Max Miller, Timothy Pakron, and Lynne Riding. Poets are: Paul Allen, Marcus Amaker, Carol Anne Davis, Ellie Davis, Morrow Dowdle, Brian Penberthy, Carol Peters, Jonathan Sanchez, Dennis Ward Stiles and Katherine Williams.

City Gallery at Waterfront Park, 34 Prioleau St.

Admission: Free

SPONSORED BY: Gourmet Bay Catering, Social Wine Bar, Bulldog Banners

ROBERT EPPS INVITATIONAL EXHIBITION: CHARLESTON WIDE

May 22 to June 13; Open Mon.-Fri. from 8:30am-8pm; Sat.-Sun. from 10am-8pmRobert Epps

Despite extensive and apparently endless renovations, this City of Charleston is best characterized as a "ruin graced with an immaculate charm." True, some new is built, but more often patches go over patches in a complex process of wrecking and resurgence, a process which Charleston architect, Robert Epps has been involved in for over 30 years. And now, utilizing a traditional view camera with wide angle lens he offers in this exhibit a summing up, of sorts. Charleston Wide features 12 large scale images bounded by a common vision of loss, of extended spaces, eroded surfaces and curious colors. The Aiken Rhett House, Drayton Hall, Read Brothers Fabric Shop, Big John's Tavern, and long abandoned Kerrison Department Store are the sites of these interiors.

New Perspectives Gallery, 180 Meeting St., 3rd Floor

Admission: Free

SANDY LOGAN INVITATIONAL EXHIBITION: DECOMPOSITION
FunSaver Logo

May 22 to June 13; Open Daily from 10am-5pm;
Opening Reception: May 22 from 6-8pm

Up in the northern boundaries of the city, the sketchier neighborhoods, the burned-out apparatuses of former industry - these are the places he goes. They are in No-Man's-Land, replete with poisoned soil, mute factories, empty storage facilities and the detritus of an era that had a profound disregard for the local environment. Here, in these more remote areas, the subjects hide, and defy the camera to show inherent beauty, apparent only by much closer inspection. These unaltered images, are, for the most part, so isolated by the camera, that they can morph into abstraction, and, as such, become almost painterly in their color and composition. Some are quite bright with color, some are dark and brooding; their common thread the culture of disposability and of neglect - use it until it breaks, then toss it away and buy another one.

Art Institute of Charleston, 24 North Market St.

Admission: Free

TATE NATION INVITATIONAL EXHIBITION: COMPOSITION
Tate Nation

May 22 to June 13; Open Daily from 10am-5pm;
Opening Reception: May 22 from 6-8pm

While recognized primarily for his festive abstractions of streetscapes and the Lowcountry's coastal environment, and for his vibrant, stylized depictions of Caribbean tropical and aquatic scenes, artist Tate Nation has also, for more than three decades, passionately painted abstract interpretations of the places, objects and experiences that nurture his creative spirit. Although he sometimes includes a sampling of abstract paintings in his exhibits of semi to representational works, this exhibit marks his first all-abstract exhibition.

Art Institute of Charleston, 24 North Market St.

Admission: Free

MCLEAN SHEPERD INVITATIONAL EXHIBITION: PETAL TO THE METAL
McLean Sheperd

May 22 to June 13; Open Mon.-Fri., 8:30am-8pm; Sat.-Sun., 10am-8pm

A bloom has been likened to an enlightened plant: the highest form, or awakened form of the plant kingdom. In the contemplation of a blossom, or the painting depicting the blossom, we honor the plant and thus begin the awakening process in ourselves. These paintings are infused with the artist's intention to see deeply into the essence of the flower and to capture the energy of the blossom; to paint not just the sunflower's color and shape, but the very warmth of the petals and their delight in being alive. Dr. Sheperd's use of metallic leaf, glitter and other shiny surfaces emerged out of meditations and dreams about flowers which revealed that these blossoms permeate the air with delicious, etheric, sparkling essences.

New Perspectives Gallery, 180 Meeting St., 2nd Floor

Admission: Free

VETERANS PORTRAIT PROJECT: THE SOUTH CAROLINA EDITION
American Flag

May 24 to June 11; Open Mon.-Fri. from 10am-5pm; Opening Reception: May 22 from 5-7pm

The Veterans Portrait Project is a culmination of three years of portraiture by 12-year combat veteran, Stacy Pearsall. To date, Pearsall has photographed over 300 military veterans in South Carolina. Of the hundreds of images, 80 portraits have been selected to be on permanent display at the Ralph H. Johnson Medical Center in Charleston, S.C. As you walk down the main hall, these gripping black and white portraits will tell the stories of our nation's heroes. The many faces of these men and women from WWII to present day will remind you of the sacrifices of America's fighting forces.

Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, 109 Bee St.

Admission: Free

MUSIC

2010-04-25T14:18:00.001-07:00

Apr. 26: College of Charleston Department of Music presents its Monday Night Concert Series: Charleston Pro Musica and Madrigal Singers. Recital Hall, Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Apr. 26 at 8 p.m. Admission is $10/at the door; Free/CofC Students with valid ID. For more info, call (843) 953-5927, and visit www.cofc.edu.

Apr. 27: College of Charleston Department of Music presents its International Piano Series: Bach Extravaganza. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St. Apr. 27 at 8 p.m. Admission is $20/at the door; Free/CofC Students with valid ID. For more info, call (843) 953-6575, and visit www.cofc.edu.

Apr. 28: Family Circle Magazine Stadium presents My Morning Jacket in concert. My Morning Jacket is ready to bring their electrifying live show back on the road. MMJ is also excited to both try something new with their choice for an opening act, and bring some of the spirit of NOLA to Charleston. Special guests: Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Family Circle Magazine Stadium, Daniel Island 8p.m. Admission is $30-$40. For more info, call (800) 745-3000.

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art / Book Drive

2010-04-25T14:16:00.000-07:00

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art presents Book Drive for Better World Books. Better World Books collects and sells books online to fund literacy initiatives worldwide. They support book drives and collect used books and textbooks through a network of over 1,800 college campuses and partnerships with over 2,000 libraries nationwide. So far, the company has converted more than 25 million donated books into $7.3 million in funding for literacy and education. In the process, we've also diverted more than 13,000 tons of books from landfills. There are four drop-off locations: The Halsey Institute, The Addlestone Library on Calhoun St., The Education Center, and The Bellsouth Building, both on St. Philip Street. Just look for the green box! They believe that every book has lasting value and the potential to help change the world. They see their job as helping to find new homes for unwanted books. So far, they've donated 1.5 million books to partner programs around the world. Their five primary literacy partners are Books for Africa, Room to Read, Worldfund, The National Center for Family Literacy, and Invisible Children. Every new book purchased from Better World Books online and every used book donated contributes to individual literacy throughout the world and the promise of a better life. 161 Calhoun Street, Gallery hours during exhibition: 11-4p.m., Mon.-Sat. and by appointment. For more info, call (843)953-5680, email silbermanr@cofc.edu or LizzBiswellmail@cofc.edu, and visit halsey.cofc.edu.

Kiawah:: 2nd Annual Gourmet & Grapes Weekend at The Sanctuary

2010-04-25T14:14:00.000-07:00

Apr. 30 - May 2: 2nd Annual Gourmet & Grapes Weekend at The Sanctuary. A dazzling weekend that combines the culinary talents of the country's leading chefs with an assortment of wines from some of the most respected winemakers in the world. The Second Annual Gourmet & Grapes event features a black-tie dinner, an interactive wine symposium, a cooking demonstration luncheon, and grand wine odyssey. The Grand finale features live entertainment plus live and silent auctions. This five-star event benefits the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. The goal of the event is to raise funds and awareness that will benefit the Medical University of South Carolina, (MUSC), Hollings Cancer Center. The mission is to create an unparalleled event by combining local and national culinary talent coupled with award winning wineries. The staff of local volunteers, MUSC Hollings Cancer Center & The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort will provide an unforgettable experience through genuine southern hospitality in a unique and natural setting. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Sanctuary Beach Dr., events at various times throughout the weekend. For more info, call (843) 792-7994, and visit www.gourmetandgrapes.com.

April ART events

2010-04-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

Apr. 29: The Gibbes Museum of Art presents Take it to the Street Party. The Gibbes will take art to the streets of Charleston with this party celebrating the preview opening of Modern Masters from the Ferguson Collection. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, an open bar, and creative "street food" crafted by Charleston's most celebrated chefs. Meeting St. in front of the Gibbes, 135 Meeting St. 7:30-10:30p.m. Admission is $75 for museum members and $100 for non-members. For more info, call (843) 722-2706 x21, and visit www.gibbesmuseum.org.

Apr. 30 – May 8: City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department presents 2010 North Charleston Arts Festival. The fabulous nine-day celebration of the arts is one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the Lowcountry, providing over 30,000 residents & visitors with a fabulous array of performances, exhibitions, and activities. The Main Event, held May 1 & 2 at the Charleston Area Convention Center Complex, offers free admission and parking to over 40 performances on four stages featuring national, regional, and local professional performers, ethnic & cultural groups, and community groups. Other Main Event activities include judged art, photography, youth art, and fine craft exhibitions, a gem & mineral show, children's activities, Art & Craft booths, and an Outdoor Food Court. The Arts Festival continues with over 50 free or moderately priced ticketed events throughout the week at various locations around North Charleston. Festival Week offerings include concerts, theater and dance performances, children's programs, literary events,block parties, an Art Walk, and much more. The festivities conclude on Saturday, May 8, with the Grand Finale at Riverfront Park, featuring a variety of concerts and activities, as well as a fantastic fireworks display over the Cooper River. There's truly something for everyone, so be sure to take advantage of the arts and cultural opportunities available at the 2010 North Charleston Arts Festival! For more info, call (843) 554-5700, and visit www.Northcharleston.org.

Lowcountry LOCAL Farmers Markets

2010-04-25T14:04:00.000-07:00

Apr. 3-Dec. 19: City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs presents the 2010 Charleston Farmers Market. Each weekend, market goers can discover an abundance of the Lowcountry's finest locally grown produce, plants, herbs and seedlings for sale in Marion Square in the Historic District of Downtown Charleston. Take home fresh baked bread and pastries or enjoy a variety of foods and beverages at the sidewalk café. The Charleston Farmers Market also offers an amazing assortment of juried arts and crafts, providing the best selections from talented local artisans. Each week the Charleston Farmers Market provides family entertainment from local musicians. Marion Square, King & Calhoun Sts. Apr. 3-Dec. 19: Sat. from 8a.m.-2p.m. Admission is Free. For more info, call (843) 724-7305, email farmersmarket@ci.charleston.sc.us, and visit www.charlestonarts.sc.

Apr. 13-Oct. 19: Town of Mount Pleasant presents the 2010 Mount Pleasant Farmers Market. The Mount Pleasant Farmers Market offers vegetables, fruits, seafood, flowers, plants, baked goods, canned goods, fresh cooked meals and snacks. Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market Pavilion, Coleman Blvd. (Moultrie Middle School grounds) Apr. 13-Oct. 19: Tues. from 3p.m. to dusk. Admission is Free; Parking is Free. For more info, call (843) 884-8517 ext. 3497.

Apr. 22- Oct. 28: City of North Charleston presents North Charleston Farmers Market. The market offers an abundance of fresh, locally grown produce, and features art & craft booths, food vendors, and entertainment. Grounds of the Felix C. Davis Community Center at Park Circle, 4800 Park Circle., Thur. Apr. 22-Oct. 28 from 12-7p.m. Admission is Free. For more info, call (843) 745-1028, email culturalarts@northcharleston.org, and visit www.northcharleston.org.

May 6-Sep. 30: Family Circle Tennis Center and the Daniel Island Business Association present The Daniel Island Farmers Market. The Daniel Island Farmers Market was created with a goal of encouraging a sense of community, sharing and fun, while supporting Lowcountry farmers, growers and artists. Growers from throughout the region will offer an abundance of fresh local produce, herbs and cut flowers. Local artisans will display their crafts, and hometown talent will perform on stage. While enjoying the Farmers Market, shoppers will also find delicious snacks and beverages available for purchase. Family Circle Tennis Center, 161 Seven Farms Dr., Thur. May 6-Sep. 30 from 3-7 p.m. Admission is Free. For more info, visit www.myislandtown.com, or www.danielisland.com.

3.4.10 St Patty's Day

2010-03-04T11:16:00.000-08:00

St. Patrick's Day celebration in N. Charleston set
Staff report
Thursday, March 4, 2010

North Charleston's 7th Annual St. Patrick's Day Block Party and Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 13 from 12:30-8 p.m. on East Montague Avenue in the Olde Village near Park Circle.

The parade grand marshal will again Mayor Keith Summey.

East Montague Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic from Virginia Avenue to O'Hear Avenue for the festivities. The celebration includes live bands, Irish dancing, bagpipe music, a jump castle, face painting, a mechanical bull, food vendors, corned beef and cabbage, a DJ, Irish trivia and prizes.

The parade will begin at Park Place East at 12:30 p.m. The parade route will go down East Montague Avenue to the block party location near Virginia Avenue.

The party, parade and parking are free to the public. St. Patrick's Day is March 17.

3.4.10 Charleston Wine & Food Festival

2010-03-04T11:12:00.000-08:00

BB&T's Charleston Wine + Food Festival

March 4-7, 2010

Guests have the opportunity to indulge in the unique flavors of the Lowcountry while tasting the Epicurean delights of the country's best chefs, authors and wine professionals. Learn about and get a taste of Southern cuisine and the Lowcountry's unique food styles, heritage, and recipes at various events and venues throughout the weekend. Tickets go fast - so get them while they're hot! The mission of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to enhance Charleston's culinary reputation and support important charitable endeavors by focusing national attention on the entertainment, education, and gastronomical gratification opportunities presented by world class culinary professionals and wine experts.

Various high-quality restaurants throughout Charleston.

Mar. 4 from 11a.m.-10p.m.; Mar. 5 from 11a.m.-6:30p.m.; Mar. 6 from 9a.m.-12a.m.; Mar. 7 from 11a.m.-8p.m.

Individual event ticket prices vary; $695/Grand Weekend Pass Option 1; $420/Grand Weekend Pass Option 2.
For more info, visit www.charlestonwineandfood.com.

10.20.09 Antique Shop

2009-10-20T07:35:00.001-07:00

Transplant finds excitement in busy world of antiques sales

Anything but dull

By Edward Fennell

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Justin Jureka, general manager of Southern Estate Antiques, walks among some of the James Island store's treasures.

Any perception that antiques dealers live dull days in dank, dimly lit shops is all wrong.

Just ask Justin Jureka, general manager of Southern Estate Antiques at 1739 Maybank Highway in the Piggly Wiggly shopping center.

"It's a very exciting business," the 28-year-old Jureka insists. "A lot of people think there's not much to do, that it means long days in a dark, crowded, dusty shop." But, he said, the antiques field demands constant self-education about history, products, trends and prices, and Jureka's weekends often are spent traveling to estate sales in the Carolinas and Georgia.

"It's a blessing to go out there and get in the heat of the action, bidding against other people who want it," he said.

"I enjoy the shopping end of it and passing the savings on to our customers."

Jureka has been with the shop about a year, and since his arrival the shop has undergone a name change and a complete remake.

The site formerly was named Captains Clutter, a moniker Jureka concedes was all-too accurate for the old shop and a descriptive term "not very conducive to selling. Some people thought it was catchy having 'clutter' in the name, but you can't have clutter in the name of your store," he said with a smile.

The makeover meant cutting many prices to clear out merchandise that had not been moving, and rearranging displays into a bright, colorful and attractive site. "We kind of started from scratch. The business was not what it should be," he noted.

The remake and the special services the shop offers have perked up the business, he said. "We do personal shopping for clients looking for specific items," he said. He said many clients are interior decorators and the shop "saves them the time of going out and looking for things."

The shop also distributes a newsletter, sells online, is creating a Web site and offers layaway and delivery services, Jureka said.

Keeping up with what's trendy is part of the antiques business, and he said items that seem "hot" right now include buffets and side boards -- tables to serve dining rooms -- plus dining room sets and wardrobes.

"Art deco is coming back," he added.

One of the store's gems is a "secretary" style hand-made desk, created in about 1750, probably in Asia. In addition to a lot of fine and vintage furniture, desks, lamps and all kinds of decorative items, paintings, prints, books and vases, the

store currently is showing signed memorabilia by Bob Dylan and George Harrison, a stuffed bobcat, a Western saddle, a wheat harvesting hand tool and other "rustic farm equipment," Jureka said.

The shop has a set of snowshoes on hand. There were two sets, but one was sold to a Michigan man, Jureka said.

Jureka grew up in St. Louis and earned a degree in management and marketing at the University of Tulsa. He moved to Hilton Head 13 years ago to be with family there, and took jobs working front desks at resorts while slowly working his way into a business that sold fine wine, cigars, antiques and signed memorabilia.

He moved to Charleston to be with his girlfriend, Chelsye Harp, and landed the job with the shop that later became known as Southern Estate.

"I love Charleston, but having been here about a year, (I) haven't even scratched the surface of what's downtown. And I love living on James Island. It's 10 minutes to town or 10 minutes to the beach," he added.

Ten years from now, Jureka says he would like to own his own shop, doing what he does now. "It's an ongoing process. I want to grow and learn and get involved in the industry. You never know enough about this industry."

A lover of fine cigars, Jureka added he wants to also branch out into the cigar aficionado market.

Reach Edward C. Fennell at 937-5560 or efennell@postandcourier.com.

Gmail - Vacation Traveler Services - Questionnaire - vacationtravelerservices@gmail.com

2009-10-20T07:31:00.000-07:00

Gmail - Vacation Traveler Services - Questionnaire - vacationtravelerservices@gmail.com

9.27.09 Folly Beach Fishing Pier

2009-09-27T05:50:00.001-07:00

Dropping a line

Sunday, September 27, 2009

By Alan Hawes

The Post and Courier

Fishermen line the Folly Beach Fishing Pier on Saturday during the last of the park district's summer fishing tournaments. Top prizes were won for a 3-pound, 3-ounce red drum in the Big Fish category and a 10-ounce bluefish in the King Mackerel category.

9.25.09 5 day Folly Forecast

2009-09-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	81° \| 74° Detail Almanac	83° \| 72° Detail Almanac	85° \| 68° Detail Almanac	79° \| 65° Detail Almanac
Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday	Tuesday

Partly Cloudy	Chance of Rain	Chance of T-storms	Clear	Clear

9.25.09 MOJA Arts Festival

2009-09-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

The 2009 MOJA Arts Festival presents:

A Classical Encounter

Duo recital by cellist KENNETH LAW

and pianist STEPHEN BUCK

Performing works by Faure, Piazzolla, and Rubinstein

Sunday, September 27th, 2009

2:00pm-3:00pm

Admission $10.00

The City Gallery at Waterfront Park

34 Prioleau Street

Charleston, SC

Also, please visit us for

Jonathan Green and Proteges

now through

October 4, 2009!

Jonathan Green returns to exhibit his paintings at the 2009 MOJA Arts Festival, twenty years after his first MOJA Arts Festival exhibition was interrupted by Hurricane Hugo in 1989.
Included in the exhibition are paintings by three artists mentored by Jonathan Green. The artists, Jean Dornevil, Reynier Llanes, and Juan Diaz each have paintings in the exhibition in addition to several stoneware pieces by Willie Leftwich. Green believes in the importance of giving back to the community and helping other artists improve their careers.

Gallery Hours:

Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m.-6p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: 12-5p.m.

Closed Mondays

9.18.09 5 day Folly forecast

2009-09-18T05:24:00.001-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

81° \| 76° Detail Almanac	83° \| 74° Detail Almanac	79° \| 74° Detail Almanac	81° \| 74° Detail Almanac	81° \| 74° Detail Almanac
Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday	Tuesday

Chance of Rain	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms

9.18.09 Queen Quet

2009-09-18T05:19:00.000-07:00

Back to Moxie Main Page

We Asked . . . Queen Quet

About the biggest threat to Gullah/Geechee culture and how others respond to her

Friday, September 18, 2009

Photo by Kristen Hankla

The Post and Courier

Queen Quet stands with a stamping stick, which is used during The Shout and other spiritual rituals of the Gullah / Geechee culture.

Meet Queen Quet

Title: Chieftess and head-of-state for the Gullah/Geechee Nation

Residence: St. Helena Island (and Charleston on many work days.)

Hobbies: Reading, writing, dancing and enjoying the beauty of the Gullah/Geechee Nation's people and lands.

Age: Ageless.

Family: All mi Gullah/Geechee peepol.

Q: You became the first chief-tess of the Gullah/Geechee Nation nine years ago. Why did the Gullah/Geechee people need a queen?

A: The Gullah/Geechee people needed a leader and someone that would be an official spokesperson and leader in order to ensure that their needs were discussed. Many people were focusing on civil rights and local laws, but not on human rights and making sure that the language, culture and land were retained so that the culture would be continued from Jacksonville, N.C., to Jacksonville, Fla. People would generally look at an issue where they were when it suddenly came up, but did not try to unify all of our people so that we can work together and sustain ourselves from our own resources. That is actually our tradition. As a result, many families had been and were being displaced by laws that were leading to the displacement of Gullah/Geechees.

Q: How have people, both Gullah and Geechee people and outsiders, responded to you?

A: I have had mixed responses, most of them due to people not being educated on international law or history. Many people do not realize that the right to self-determination is a human right. Nor did they know that there were international laws that are meant to protect linguistic and ethnic minorities. So academics have attempted to incorrectly define the practice of self-determination that Gullah/Geechees took and have written inaccurate analyses of my official position because they are focused on things that they are "used to" and not that which is a precedent.

I also have encountered people that still did not want to accept that their own people could designate and elect their own leader. Most Gullah/Geechees that still practice our traditions have been very happy to know that we have gotten this far and applaud me. There are those that would prefer for our people to be tools of tourism and entertainment only, and they tend to have negative statements to make or inaccurate conclusions that they draw. However, I am thankful that God has had me among many forward-thinking people that are Gullah/Geechee and non-Gullah/Geechee that realize that my focus is for the uplifting of ALL Gullah/Geechee people and the realization of the protection of human rights for ALL people. So if there are those that work against that by not responding well to me, I simply continue to do what God has called me to do, and I pray for those folks.

Q: What would you like people to know about the Gullah/Geechee culture?

A: That Gullah/Geechee culture is a living culture that one has to live to fully understand. We descend from people of intellect and strength that continued to maintain their culture through determined hearts and faith in God. It is those of us that continue to work TOGETHER in that same spirit that are able to keep our global Gullah/Geechee family alive and the culture continuing within the Gullah/Geechee Nation.

Q: What is the biggest threat to the Gullah/Geechee culture?

A: The biggest threat to the culture is miseducation. Those that are incorrectly informed about what the culture is and what is best for the culture are often those put in positions to pass laws that will deeply affect the lands, waterways and traditions of the Gullah/Geechee Nation. These include those in political positions and those in academic positions. Many of them look only to the same incomplete information that has been published on Gullah/Geechees and then relegate Gullah/Geechees to the position of entities for the sake of tourism dollars without focusing on direct methods of assisting the Gullah/Geechees to empower themselves.

Q: Before you were Queen Quet, you were Marquetta Goodwine. How would your life be different if you had never been crowned?

A: My life would only be different in the sense that I may not have as many people inviting me to different countries with official bodyguards and protection and red carpets being laid out literally for me when I arrive and such. However, I still would have been working on behalf of my people to make sure that my traditions continued and to call together others around the world that want to assist with that process. I was doing that before my enstoolment and I do believe that I am purposed to continue. If I were not the Queen Mother and head of state, I might actually have had this thing that people tell me about, too: vacations.

Q: What do you do for fun?

A: For fun, I dance! I dance with friends and family, and everyone loves to dance with me until they have to sit down. I then dance with a whole new set of people. It would be wonderful if others could be part of the circle and feel the energy that I do in the dance.

Q: What are you passionate about?

A: I am going to answer this the easiest way that the answer is coming:

When asked about my passion, Gullah/Geechee da de fuss ting wha cum ta mi!

Then when given stipulations on the answer, I have to think, "Hummm, let's see ..."

When I dance, I believe that all see the passion that flows

And they connect to the Godly Spirit that flows.

Seeking God is the greatest passion that I have each day.

That is why I do what I do and why I do them this way.

Ultimately all that I do is to uplift my people and make the world better than it was when I arrived.

I am passionate about making the Universal Declaration of Human Rights a living thing for which we all strive.

Most of all, when folks see the passion coming from me,

It stems from daily knowing I am Gullah/Geechee and blessed to be FREE!

- Kristen Hankla

9.18.09 Here comes Carnival . . . .

2009-09-18T05:18:00.001-07:00

Charleston to be a Carnival home port

Cruise ship to embark weekly from passenger terminal for Bahamas, Key West trips

By Allyson Bird

The Post and Courier

Friday, September 18, 2009

For the first time in Charleston port history, a cruise ship will set sail once a week, every week, from the passenger terminal -- and sometimes more often than that.

Carnival Cruise Lines

The Carnival cruise ship Fantasy will begin weekly service from Charleston in May.

The 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy will embark from the end of Market Street for five-, six- and seven-day voyages to the Bahamas and Key West, Fla., beginning in May. As many as 70 calls per year will more than double the current number of cruises and, by some estimates, inject millions of dollars in direct local economic impact with each of them.

Top port and political leaders excitedly shared the news Thursday from a Waterfront Park pier while curious tourists observed from the nearby oversize swings. Onlookers gazed into Charleston Harbor and over at the freshly painted cruise terminal being prepared for a major overhaul.

Sen. Larry Grooms, R-Bonneau, said Carnival Cruise Line's decision to make Charleston a home port "is like a down payment" on a growing industry.

"It is a wonderful day in South Carolina. It is a wonderful day in the Lowcountry," said Grooms, chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee. "It's like a fantasy has come true."

Rep. Chip Limehouse, R-Charleston, took it one step further: "With that, I'm going to declare the recession over in Charleston, South Carolina."

Hicks' column

Let's get busy on that terminal, a column by The Post and Courier's Brian Hicks, published 9/18/09

A city-organized task force in 2004 found that a ship stopping in Charleston spends $1.7 million in supplies from local vendors and State Ports Authority fees, while a ship originating in Charleston spends $2.5 million.

Cruise ships historically account for less than 1 percent of port business and carry onboard only about 1 percent of Charleston's annual visitors. But it's an important 1 percent, as Charleston Mayor Joe Riley pointed out Thursday.

"People come here to take a cruise, and they haven't been to Charleston before, they say one thing: We're coming back," Riley said.

Carnival Fantasy

FIRST CRUISE: 1990
BUILT: Helsinki, Finland
COST: $225 million
LENGTH: 855 feet
PASSENGER DECKS: 10
NORMAL PASSENGER CAPACITY: 2,056
CREW SIZE: 920
MORE INFO: About the Fantasy and Carinval Cruise Lines, Carnival web site.

Rep. Leon Stavrinakis, D-Charleston, said the new cruise program also presents an opportunity for local families to sail to tropical climes without driving to another state first.

Carnival's president and chief executive issued a statement for the occasion, saying Charleston's central position along the East Coast factored into the company's decision.

The Port of Charleston anticipates 33 total cruise calls this year, including four Carnival calls. The port received 49 ships last year and 44 in 2007.

Its only customer with a contract, Norwegian Cruise Lines, announced last year that its ship regularly calling on Charleston had been sold to a foreign company. The Norwegian Majesty made its final call this spring.

When John Hassell became the port's interim chief executive in January, he listed a revitalized cruise industry as a priority.

SPA chooses design firm, published 09/16/09

That meant dusting off a 13-year-old plan to revamp the passenger terminal and to transform the prime waterfront acreage surrounding it into a two-story system of shops, lodging and dining.

The 30-year-old passenger facility recently received a fresh coat of paint to cover the rust but remains dramatically outdated and fails to meet post-9/11 security regulations. The Carnival announcement came two days after port staff shared with board members that they had selected urban design firm Cooper, Robertson & Partners to revisit and redevelop the master plan.

Former shipping executive Jim Newsome officially took over as Hassell's permanent replacement Sept. 1. Given Tuesday's step toward a better terminal, he said Thursday, "This couldn't happen at a better time."

Reach Allyson Bird at 937-5594 or abird@postandcourier.com.

9.18.09 MOJA atrs festival calendar

2009-09-18T05:17:00.000-07:00

Having trouble viewing this email? CLICK HERE

QUICK LINKS

www.mojafestival.com

2009 MOJA Arts Festival Program Guide

TicketMaster.com

Join our Email List!

www.RideCarta.com

RECEPTION THIS WEEKEND!!!

Juried Art Exhibition
Opening Reception: September 20, 2009 from 5:30-7p.m.

Open to the public, this event showcases works in all media by South Carolina and regional artists. Three cash awards will be given for first, second and third place.

Artists selected to participate in this year's exhibition are Edward Jobst Andrews, Denise Athanas, Bill Blizard, Audrey Layne Combs, Johnnie H. Cowan, Lucy Elliott, Lynda English, Latasha R. Hollins, Lori Starnes Isom, Pat Keown, Kim Lucia, Dorothy Montgomery, Hampton R. Olfus, Jr., Lucretia Pope, Edward Shmunes, Charles Staats, James E. St. Clair, Nancy Van Buren, and Jaclyn Wukela. Cash awards will be given for first, second, third place, and three ribbons for honorable mentions.

Opening Reception: Sunday, September 20, 2009 from 5:30-7p.m.
McKinley Washington Auditorium

Exhibit: Open daily 10a.m.-5p.m., September 20 - October 30, 2009
Avery Research Center, 125 Bull St.
Admission: FREE

SPONSORED BY: Berkeley Electric Cooperative
Visit www.becsc.com.

MOJA Arts Festival Opening Reception
September 24, 2009 from 6-8p.m.

Meet the 2009 MOJA Poster Artist, Doyle Cloyd at the Opening Reception for the 26th festival and enjoy sumptuous Caribbean cuisine catered by Joe's Catering.

Thursday, September 24, 2009 from 6-8p.m. Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting Street
Admission: FREE

Out of Africa
Opening Reception: October 2, 5-8p.m.

The Lowcountry Artists, Ltd. is proud to announce this new exhibition featuring work by Rick Dean, Lynda English, and Jackie Wukela. Safari in Swahili means journey, and the journey Rick Dean took to Africa in the summer of 2008 where he and family and friends spent the first part of the trip by giving back-five days helping families and children at Living Water Children's Centre, a home for orphaned children. Many of his images are from this orphanage. It took an entire year to organize the thousands of shots taken during this wondrous adventure. "Who would ever think we would get to use these wonderful photographs? I want to paint them again and again," says Jackie Wukela. And she does, more than once and in different media. Wukela's work in watercolor, colored pencil and oil are all centered around the Maasai.

October 1 -October 31, 2009 from 10:30am-5:30pm, Monday-Saturday & 1-5pm, Sunday
Opening Reception, Friday, October 2, 2009 from 5-8pm Lowcountry Artists, Ltd., 148 East Bay Street
Admission: Free

I, Too, America
Opening Reception: October 2, 5:30-7p.m.

This year's visual arts invitational exhibit is a group show featuring five dynamic women who offer their inspired visual interpretations of Langston Hughes' 1925 poem entitled "I, Too." The opening line of the poem is "I, too, sing America." It speaks to our shared yet diverse heritages and is an unabashed call to the patriotism and the promise of inclusion that the American dream symbolizes. The artists are: Marty Biernbaum, KTC/Karole Turner Campbell,
Arianne King Comer, Andrea Hazel Jacqueline Johnson.

September 25 - October 30, 2009 from 10am-5pm, Monday-Friday Reception: Friday, October 2, 2009 from 5:30-7pm

2nd Floor Lobby, Gaillard Auditorium, 77 Calhoun Street
Admission: Free

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

9.15.09 Chas Co Parks

2009-09-15T03:06:00.001-07:00

Charleston County Parks

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Special Events

Moonlight Mixer: Dance the night away under the stars at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier with the popular Moonlight Mixers. From 7-11 p.m. Sept. 4 and 25, local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around. Advance tickets are $10 and $8 for Charleston County residents. If available, tickets purchased on-site are $10. Only 600 tickets will be sold for this event. No refunds or exchanges. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

Concert on the Cooper: From 7:30-11 p.m. Sept. 12, come out to the new Mount Pleasant Pier for the new Concerts on the Cooper series featuring Super Deluxe. Only 800 tickets will be sold for this event. Tickets are $8 and will be available beginning at 3 p.m. the day of the event in the pier gift shop. No refunds or exchanges. Ages 3 and up. Call 795-4FUN (4386).

Dog Day Afternoon: Your dog is invited to enjoy Whirlin' Waters on Sept. 13 from noon-6 p.m.. Large dogs can enjoy the wave pool and smaller dogs can take a dip in Otter Bay to cool down from the summer heat. The two swimming areas will be open only for dogs; owners will not be allowed in the water. Bring proof of your dog's current vaccinations for entry. Tickets are $10 and $8 for Charleston County residents. Tickets are limited, so advance purchase is recommended. Admission ticket (not receipt) is required for event entry. No refunds or exchanges. Call 795-4FUN (4386).

Shagging on the Cooper: Dance the night away under the stars Sept. 19 from 7:30-11 p.m. at the Mount Pleasant Pier while enjoying live classic oldies and beach music. The seven-piece Ocean Drive Party Band will perform soul, funk, Carolina beach and shag, classic rock, country and more. Only 800 tickets will be sold for this event. Tickets are $8 and will be available beginning at 3 p.m. the day of the event in the pier gift shop. No refunds or exchanges. Ages 3 and up. Call 795-4FUN (4386).

Reggae Concert Series: Enjoy the best live Reggae music around this summer at your Charleston County Parks. On Sept. 19, Wannamaker County Park hosts reggae band Ever-G. Bring a chair or blanket and groove to the island tunes. Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited. No advance tickets will be sold. Gates open at 7:30 p.m., music begins at 8:30 p.m. Admission is $8 and free for children 12 and under and Gold Pass Holders. For more information, call 795-4FUN (4386) or visit the Web site at www.ccprc.com.

September Programs

Early Morning Bird Walks at Caw Caw: The walk through distinct habitats allows participants to discuss birds, butterflies and other organisms. Preregistration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Meets at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. $5/free for Gold Pass members. 8:30 a.m.-noon Sept. 5, 9, 12.

Local Hikes: Palmetto Trail Night Hike. Pack a flashlight, drink and your sense of adventure as group hikes a beautiful section of the S.C. Palmetto Trail under a moonlit sky. All trails are appropriate for beginners. Pre-registration required. 5:30-10 p.m. Sept. 4. Meets at: CCPRC Headquarters. Age: 16 & up. Fee: $15/$12 CCR Discount.

Moonlight Wall Climb: Full Moon Climb. Climb during the full moon. Climbing at night adds a whole new dimension to the climbing experience. Participants must have previous climbing/belaying experience. Equipment not included in climbing fee; bring your headlamp/flashlight. Pre-registration not required. A chaperon is required for participants ages 15 and under. Arrive before 5 p.m. and pay at The Climbing Wall. 7-10 p.m. Sept. 4. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 4 & up. Fee: $12/$10 CCR Discount.

Parent & Child Samplers: Canoe and Kayak Sampler: This hands-on class introduces basic strokes and equipment before giving families a chance to paddle a variety of kayaks and canoes. This program is for children ages 8-16 and their parents. A registered and paid chaperon is required for participants ages 16 and under. Preregistration required. 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 5. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 8 & up. Fee: $12/$10 CCR Discount.

Sea Kayak Instructional Classes: ACA Coastal Kayak Basic Strokes and Rescues. This class will spend the day refining some basic strokes, introducing the support strokes and, most importantly, practicing self- and assisted-rescue skills. Add in a little information on navigation, wind and weather, and safety equipment, and you'll be better prepared for your next adventure. Preregistration required. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 5. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 16 & up. Fee: $54/$45 CCR Discount.

Caw Caw Self-Guided Canoe Tour: Relax and enjoy a day paddling historic rice fields. A chaperon is required for participants ages 15 & under. Registration on-site only. For more information, call 889-8898. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 5, 6, 12, 20, 27. Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Fee: $10 fee per canoe.

Colonial Rice Plantation: Daily life and practices on a South Carolina rice plantation in the colonial era. A registered and paid chaperon required for ages 15 and under. Preregistration required. 10 a.m.-noon Sept. 5. Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Age: 9 & up. Fee: $9/$7 CCR Discount.

Introduction to Climbing: Introduction to Belaying. This three-hour class will teach the fundamentals of belaying. Participants will be prepared to take a belay test upon their next visit to the Climbing Wall. Pre-registration required. 1-4 p.m. Sept. 5. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 14 & up. Fee: $24/$20 CCR Discount.

After-School Adventures: After School Paddle. Group will review and learn basic canoe and kayak strokes, play paddling games. Preregistration required. 3:30-6 p.m. Sept. 9. Meets at: Palmetto Islands County Park; 3:30-6 p.m. Sept. 10. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 6-12. Fee: $12/$10 CCR Discount.

Folly Beach Bird Walks: Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve Bird Walk. Birding experts from CCPRC and the S.C. Audubon Society explore Folly Beach. Preregistration required. 8:30-10:30 a.m. Sept. 11. Meets at: Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. Age: 16 & up. Fee: Free, preregistration is required.

9.15.09 Lighthouse Inlet

2009-09-15T03:05:00.001-07:00

Astounding views, seclusion make Lighthouse Inlet appealing new park

By Edward Fennell

The Journal

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Michael Morton of James Island glances back while fishing at the northeast end of Folly Beach, a scenic, semi-secluded spot formerly known as the Old Coast Guard Base and on track to become a county park called Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve.

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Betty Tarnowski of Folly Beach, who for five years has made regular 'turtle patrols' on the island's northeast end, checks a loggerhead turtle nest that she previously marked. Turtle nests are common at this portion of the island, making protection of the endangered wildlife necessary, Tarnowski said.

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Jim Roberts (left) snaps pictures of his fiancee, Katie Piontek, while on revetment rocks at the east end of Folly Beach. The Charlotte couple were visiting Folly for the first time. They were impressed by the beauty and atmosphere they found, especially at the island's less busy northeast end.

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Toting a water bottle on a very hot August day, Folly Beach turtle patroller Betty Tarnowski approaches Lighthouse Inlet, which separates Folly and Morris islands. Folly Beach's best view of the Morris Island Lighthouse can be found here.

Gazing at astounding views while absorbing the sounds of crashing waves and calling seabirds, it's hard to believe this serene spot at the northeastern end of Folly Island is so well-connected to war and bloodshed.

People have been coming to this site for decades to relax, fish, crab or just walk the shore in solitude. And now the 80-plus acres across a narrow waterway from the Morris Island lighthouse is getting official recognition: It is being transformed to a park by the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission and is now named Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve.

The commission has owned the site, formerly known as the Old Coast Guard Base, since 1989 and plans to maintain it as a passive sanctuary.

It's not yet known when construction will begin, but plans include boardwalk trails, a parking area and open shelters from which nature and the sight of the Morris Island Lighthouse can be appreciated. A large bird feeding area from which ornithological studies can be conducted is planned as is signage to direct visitors to the best fishing areas and to the park's greatest assets: the sites with the most impressive views.

Much of the current park site is marked by signs as off-limits, but a mostly paved trail from the road to the beach accommodates visitors who want to enjoy the beach. The site is somewhat beyond the hustle and bustle of the island's popular beaches and commercial district. Folly Beach Mayor Carl Beckmann said it's one of his favorite escapes.

Julie Hensley, director of the commission's Planning Division, said that while it's hoped the park will continue to serve those seeking some peace and quiet, the park is also envisioned as a centerpiece in a master plan for historic battlefield parks on Folly Island and Morris Island.

A master plan dating to 2007 calls for passive parks at the northeastern end of Folly Island and at Cummings Point on Morris Island.

"Both properties are geographically and historically related to one another," necessitating simultaneous master planning for them," Hensley said.

The Folly park also fits well with commission's role in preserving the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse, she said.

Hensley said planned signage will illuminate the park's rich history, which dates to the Colonial era as well as pivotal roles in the Civil War. The site remained militarily significant until after World War II.

According to www.follysurfcam.com/follybeach/history, on Sept. 9, 1696, Folly Island was given as a royal grant to William Rivers. The land changed hands multiple times, and before the Civil War was secluded from the civilization and control of Charleston government and known as Coffin Land. The island earned a reputation as a hideout for pirates, with minimal interference from Charleston, and the few adventurous people of the island basically governed themselves.

In the Civil War, Folly, which was then described as "a fascinating, strange and uninhabitable jungle-like place," became a campground from which Union forces eventually launched the siege of Charleston, the Web site indicates.

Folly Beach City Council last month unanimously enacted ordinances, recommended by wildlife experts, intended to better protect the park site's birds and loggerhead turtles, which have been making homes or nests, or both, at the park site long before any people were around.

The new law bans dogs from the park. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service endangered species biologist Melissa Bimbi, in a recent presentation to council, said that even if they are only behaving playfully, dogs harm nesting and migrating birds when they chase or otherwise frighten them.

Beckmann said the city intends to enforce its new and older laws. The park has long attracted youths and others who party there after dark, build fires and camp out, and Beckmann said the city hopes to put a stop to that.

"We are going back and forth on patrols there, and (the S.C. Department of Natural Resources) is starting patrols there," Beckmann said. He predicted that a few arrests made for fires and for camping will have a dampening effect on those activities.

Several rather large concrete foundations remain from former Coast Guard buildings no longer standing at the site.

The foundations are proving to be attractions to graffiti artists. Beckmann said the foundations probably will be removed eventually.

Beckmann said he's eager to see the park developed, and hopes the commission can keep its long-range plans to launch boat tours from the Folly River side of Folly Island. Beckmann said Folly and the commission both had wanted to include Long Island, an undisturbed marsh island targeted for preservation that is adjacent to Folly, in park plans.

But Long Island is privately held and officials were unable to arrange its purchase, Beckmann said.

Reach Edward C. Fennell at efennell@postandcourier.com or 937-5560.

9.15.09 Lowcountry theaters

2009-09-15T03:03:00.000-07:00

Flair for film-going

Bringing special enthusiasm to theaters in the Lowcountry

By Denise K. James

Special to The Post and Courier

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Denise K. James

Michael Furlinger, owner of the Terrace Theatre on James Island and the new Hippodrome Theatre downtown, sits at his desk at the Terrace.

Michael Furlinger, owner of the Terrace Theatre on James Island and the new Hippodrome Theatre downtown, is a real fan of going to the movies.

Originally from Long Island, N.Y., Furlinger has lived in Charleston for more than two years. He bought the Terrace in 2007.

Furlinger discovered his passion for movie-going in high school.

"I had an after-school job at age 15 as an usher," he said, laughing. "I just worked my way up after that. I love the point of the movie theater -- the whole experience of being in the building. When I bought the Terrace in 2007, I renovated the whole thing: new seats, new sound and projection. We even put up the old curtain. Now it's the only theater in Charleston with a curtain, and I think that's what the Terrace offers: the old showmanship."

The Terrace Hippodrome opened in May in the former IMAX Theatre space near the S.C. Aquarium.

"We gear it towards really big pictures since it seats 450 people," Furlinger said. "The seats are the same leather used in BMWs and the screen is 75 feet."

Furlinger takes special care to pick out films that he thinks his audiences will enjoy. "I love it when I feel the success of picking the right film," he said. "It still gives me a rush when the theater is sold out and everyone loves the film. My job is really about picking what you want to see."

The process of selecting, and obtaining, films can be complex.

"You can choose your own, but it's hard to get what you want, especially when you're competing with bigger chains," he said. "I have a film buyer in New York, and that's how I get my hands on the artsy stuff that comes to the Terrace. I also go to conventions twice a year. The next one is in Florida. I'll be watching movies all week and deciding what I want for the Christmas lineup."

A typical day for Furlinger is extremely busy.

"I've gotten good at marketing the brand, and I probably work around 16 hours a day," he said. "We're the only locally owned theater, so part of what I do is making sure that we're on people's radar: MySpace, Twitter, Facebook and news outlets. I also have to make sure that our movies get reviewed."

Furlinger isn't afraid to do a little grunt work.

"I'm very hands-on," he said. "I'm always at one theater or the other, whichever is busiest. There's always plenty of paperwork to do, but I'm known for being in the lobby, always meeting and greeting customers. I sell tickets and concessions alongside my employees, and if I have to clean the theaters, I will."

Folly Forecast 9.15 - 9.19

2009-09-15T03:02:00.000-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

83° \| 74° Detail Almanac	83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	81° \| 74° Detail Almanac	83° \| 72° Detail Almanac	81° \| 72° Detail Almanac
Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday

Partly Cloudy	Chance of Rain	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms

8.17.09 Chas Info -- more than you'll ever read

2009-08-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

Charleston Information

Geography
The City of Charleston is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean at the juncture of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. Occupying 88.14 square miles, Charleston has 7.6 square miles of a vital, bustling downtown which is home to the City's central business district. The Peninsula's dense urban streets set in dramatic contrast to the vast expanses of marsh which lay in buffer around the highlands. Over half of the City's population lives in West Ashley and James Island which lie just to the west of the Peninsula. West Ashley and James Island are a mixture of old and new; older neighborhoods with brick homes and graceful oak trees settle in with newer subdivisions and commercial centers. Johns Island, more rural in character, combines an intricate network of waterways with fertile farmland, residential property and limited commercial development. Daniel Island and the Cainhoy Peninsula, which lie east and north of the Peninsula, are among the most recently annexed areas of the City. The pristine Daniel Island, a full 4,500 acres in size, is just beginning to reflect the thoughtfully planned, environmentally sensitive community mapped out in the Daniel Island Master Plan. It is sure to be the future's complement to Charleston's historic downtown.
See also: Charleston Area Beaches.

Population
Charleston is the second largest city in South Carolina with an estimated 1998 population of 100,122. Between 1980 and 1990 Charleston grew 15 percent while the nation as a whole grew 9.8 percent. The City's growth is due to the annexed lands in West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island and the Cainhoy Peninsula.

The Charleston Metropolitan Statistical Area encompasses three counties: Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester. In 1990, the population of this tri-county region was 506,875. More than 95 percent of the region's growth during the past ten years occurred in the Metro Charleston area. The projected population growth to the year 2015 is an additional 600,000 for the tri-county area.

Climate
Charleston has a warm climate. In January the average temperature is 55 degrees F; in July, the average is 82 degrees. Humidity averages 86 percent; rainfall, 52 inches per year. The first frost typically occurs around December 10; the last usually occurs in mid-February.
See also: Other Weather Information

Recreation
As in other coastal cities, recreation in Charleston centers around water. Tennis and golf are popular, too and the mild climate makes them year-round sports. The City operates a municipal golf course and 40 tennis courts. The City's numerous parks and scenic, tree-lined streets provide ample space and a beautiful backdrop for walking, jogging and cycling. The annual Cooper River Bridge Run, attracting over 25,000 participants, is one of the most popular roadraces in the Southeast. The City's Waterfront Park, deemed "this generation's gift to the future" by Mayor Riley, is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Hosts of private and County facilities round out the City's extensive inventory of recreational facilities.
See also: Charleston Area Beaches and Charleston Area Golfing

Economy
Charleston is the largest business and financial center for the Southeastern section of South Carolina. The economy of the tri-county area has expanded steadily over the past few years. Manufacturing, the military, the State Ports Authority and tourism were the engines behind that expansion. The military alone employed 19 percent of the area's work force and pumped over $4 billion annually into the local economy. For this reason, there was concern in 1992 when the Navy announced it was shutting down its Charleston base and shipyard. Community leaders rallied together with a renewed effort to fill the void that would be left by the exiting Naval presence. By 1995 a record 1.2 billion dollars of capital investment in this area was figured to bring about 8,000 new jobs.

The medical industry accounts for approximately 16,000 jobs in the regional economy. The primary medical complex occupies an eight block area in downtown Charleston. The medical center includes The Medical University of South Carolina, which employs approximately 7,500 people and has a $1 billion annual impact on the regional economy. Roper Hospital employs approximately 2,170. A third hospital, Charleston County Memorial Hospital, is owned by Charleston County and operated by The Medical University of South Carolina. Bon Secours-St. Francis Xavier Hospital and Veterans Administration Medical Center are also a part of the downtown medical complex.

A 1996 Gamble Givens & Moody business survey concluded that Charleston's economy is sound and growing. Economic boom is evident in the vast newly connected lands of Daniel Island and Cainhoy. The Charleston Regional Development Alliance is responsible for securing about 5,000 new positions, including the Nucor steel plant and high quality tabletop product manufacturer Mikasa for the Cainhoy area. Two other recent additions to Cainhoy are a new administrative facility for health insurance provider, Healthsource and the Cainhoy area's first school, Bishop England High School.

More than 8 million tons of cargo pass through the Port of Charleston each year. As the largest containerized cargo port on the Southeast Atlantic and Gulf Coasts and the seventh largest nationwide, the port annually handles over 6.8 million tons of cargo and employs an estimated 17,000 people (directly and indirectly). Confidence in the port's expanding future is evident in BMW Corporation's recent decision to import and export around the world from these docks. The Port of Charleston promises to be a cornerstone of the area's future economic growth.

Revitilization and Development
Completed in 2000, The South Carolina Aquarium, showcases exhibits of South Carolina's waterways from the mountains to the sea and includes thousands of animals and plants. Also completed in 2000, and located adjacent to the South Carolina Aquarium, is the new IMAX Theatre.

The Ashley River Walkway - a combination bikeway and promenade - is in the planning stages and will wrap around the eastern side of the Peninsula. Ultimately, the Walkway would link the new City baseball stadium, just north of Brittlebank Park on the Ashley River, with the South Carolina Aquarium

A major catalyst in the City's revitalization was the completion of Charleston Place in 1986. This luxury hotel/retail complex draws a steady stream of customers to its shops as well as to neighboring stores and restaurants along King, Meeting and Market Streets. With the Hampton Inn redevelopment, the refurbishment of the stately Francis Marion Hotel and the conversion of the old Citadel into Embassy Suites, this area is experiencing a resounding boom. A well-appointed landmark, Marion Square Park is undergoing a redesign and will be entirely surrounded by development successes and two revered churches.

In 1991, Charleston opened the gates to its Visitor Reception and Transportation Center (VRTC) on Meeting Street. The VRTC represents a significant alliance of historic preservation and tourism management. It is housed in an 1856 railroad freight station. In the renovation of the structure, the City has salvaged the rustic feel of the old depot - original beams and pine floors still greet the Charleston visitor.

Several other developments enlivened the City and secured its position as a wonderful place to live. In 1990, the City completed the Waterfront Park - an eight-acre linear park and pier along the Charleston Harbor entry. The park masterfully combines spectacular fountains, spacious lawns, intimate garden "rooms", plenty of walking and jogging paths and a long wharf with picnic tables and wooden swings. Additional waters-edge projects afford greater public access to the water, including the Charleston Maritime Center, which will establish a permanent home for the shrimping industry and include a special events pier with public access to the water.

Another extraordinary economic opportunity avails itself as a nearby sixty - five acres, known as Union Pier, offers prime development sites for hotel, retail, office and residential, deep in the historic district. A full complement of boulevards, parks and vistas are planned to ensure an ambiance befitting the historic district.

Housing
Charleston's signature housing type is the "'single house" - a narrow house with gracious side piazzas. The single house is but one choice in an ample range of housing indigenous to Charleston. From marshfront condominiums to downtown studio and from four-bedroom homes to splendid mansions in the historic district, every domestic setting can be realized. Charleston's single family market is strong; since 1987, single family production has averaged 310 new homes annually, and multi-family construction averages at 30.4 units per year.

For years, Charleston has made national headlines for its innovative approaches to providing affordable housing. In addition to the award winning designs, the achievements include the incredible rebirth of the central city and a strong revitalization movement northward up the Peninsula and into the neck area. Through its Community Development Division, the City has provided over 2,000 housing units since 1990. The Charleston Housing Authority manages 10 public housing areas as well as 113 units which are scattered throughout the City. The task of providing affordable housing does not fall to City agencies alone. A variety of groups like Habitat for Humanity, Charleston Affordable Housing , Humanities Foundation, Charleston Crisis Ministries, many churches and dedicated individuals offer assistance in the quest to provide decent, attractive, affordable housing and to prevent homelessness. This production task force is leading the way by generating creative financing and design solutions.

Culture and the Arts
Throughout its history, Charleston has stood as a cultural capital of the South. The performing arts are well represented here with a symphony orchestra, community theater groups and several local ballet companies performing regularly. The Gibbes Museum of Art and numerous art galleries, along with the abundant examples of architectural excellence and craftsmanship, expose residents and tourists to the visual arts. The Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in North America, offers a captivating collection of artifacts depicting lowcountry life from the time of the first settlers through the twentieth century.

Each spring, Charleston hosts Spoleto Festival U.S.A., the most comprehensive arts festival in the country. For two and one-half weeks, the world's finest dancers, musicians and actors take to the stage in a spirited homage to the arts culminating in a in a splendid finale at Middleton Plantation - complete with symphonic fanfare and fireworks. Simultaneous with Spoleto, the City's Office of Cultural Affairs offers a highly evolved and sophisticated fringe festival, Piccolo Spoleto, which showcases the best of regional talent. Informal, affordable and often a little zany and off-beat, the typical Piccolo program includes sidewalk art shows, jazz, classical music, film, crafts, theater, dance and much more, including a long list of daily arts activities for children. Piccolo's tickets average $5.00 but many events are free.

Other cultural events bringing visitors from afar are the annual Moja African-American Arts Festival, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, Worldfest Charleston International Film Festival, and biannual House and Garden Tours. Other events which attract visitors are the Harvest Festival at the Charleston Farmers Market, the Christmas Parade of Boats in Charleston Harbor and the Christmas in Charleston Celebration on King Street.

Government
Charleston is governed by a full-time mayor and a city council composed of twelve council members who are elected for staggered four-year terms from single-member districts. The Mayor is the presiding officer of City Council. He has no veto power but casts a vote similiar to those cast by each member of Council. Regular meetings open to the public are held twice each month during the year. The Mayor is the chief executive and administrative officer of the City which has no City Manager.
See also: City of Charleston - Website

Media
The primary newspaper, The Post and Courier, delivers news daily to 112,000 people while 126,000 receive the comprehensive Sunday edition. Approximately 20 other local publications also serve the area's diverse interests. The tri-county listens to 28 different radio stations with offerings for every musical taste and talk shows for every point of view. Five local television stations and cable services are available throughout the region. A number of free pocket-size publications serve as "what to see and do" guides for both tourists and residents and are widely available in hotels, restaurants and stores, and the Visitor Reception and Transportation Center.
See also: Charleston Newspaper - Post and Courier

Transportation
Charleston International Airport provides commercial air service to the entire trident region. Delta, Continental, USAir and Midway are the primary carriers. Amtrak provides daily rail service. Two interstate highways (1-26 and I-526), four major U.S. Highways, and seven major state highways serve the area. Interstate 526 (the Mark Clark Expressway) is a new freeway which forms a semi-circle across the region - from US 17S to US 17N.

Charleston has one major bus system. Bus routes serve Mount Pleasant, Sullivan's Island, the Isle of Palms, North Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, Hanahan, and the Peninsula. The Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) which serves downtown workers and visitors has as its focal point, the Visitor Reception and Transportation Center. The buses, modeled to look like trolleys, leave the center regularly and carry the visitors to and from the historic district. The City has developed a number of off street parking facilities within a one block area of DASH routes. Additionally, an expanded rural transit service will be setup by 1997 to operate within the rural areas of the tri-county.

Water transportation is central to the Charleston economy. The City's shipping port system, which offers more than two miles of berthing space, connects Charleston with more than 100 countries all over the globe. Norfolk Southern and the CSX rail system, in addition to 104 motor carriers, allow for the transportation of cargo between the port and the major industrial markets of the U.S.

Utilities
South Carolina Electric and Gas Company, Santee Cooper and Berkeley Electric Cooperative supply Charleston with electricity. SCE&G also supplies natural gas to the area. Water and sewer service is supplied by the Charleston Commissioners of Public Works. Bell South provides telephone service.

Education
Charleston offers a wide range of educational opportunities for both children and adults. Charleston and Berkely Public Schools System consists of 110 schools and approximately 72,000 students. A nationally recognized Business Education Partnership Program links public schools with business leaders who help shape the schools' career education programs. A bevy of private and parochial schools offer additional educational choices. Since the founding of the College of Charleston in 1770, the City has been a site of higher education. Today, the College of Charleston is a state-supported liberal arts college and university with an enrollment of almost 10,000.

The Medical University, founded in 1824, includes the colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, Dentistry, Graduate Studies and Health Related Professions. The Medical University's enrollment is 2,500. The Citadel offers military education to 2,000 cadets and holds evening classes at both undergraduate and graduate level for the general public. Trident Technical College, with an enrollment of approximately 9,000, offers two-year technical and college transfer programs. The internationally recognized Johnson and Wales University grants degrees in the culinary arts. For other educational institutions in the Charleston area see our Charleston Area Schools

Medical Facilities
Charleston's medical facilities are among the finest in the country. Five major hospitals, Charleston Memorial, Roper, Bon Secours-St. Francis Xavier, Veterans Administration Medical Center and Medical University of South Carolina, are concentrated in an eight- block medical district on the Peninsula. The Medical University is a leading biomedical, teaching, patient care and research center. Its specialized treatment programs include the Children's Hospital, the Storm Eye Institute and the Institute of Psychiatry. In addition to the major hospitals, Charleston has a number of nursing homes, hospice care and convalescent centers.

Public Safety
Efficient and well trained, the Charleston Fire Department has a class I ISO rating, the highest for a city its size in the state. This impressive rating was achieved in only three years. The Charleston Fire Department consists of 210 employees assigned to one of 18 companies. The average response time citywide is less than two minutes.

Charleston's Police Department is known nationwide for its innovative law enforcement practices. The department emphasizes crime prevention and police visibility. Under the leadership of Chief Reuben Greenberg, CPD reduced the City's crime rate by 20 percent between 1980 - 90. The force is currently composed of 314 policemen. These officers are split into 6 teams, four of which serve specific geographic regions.

Charleston County's Emergency Medical Service, along with the Medical University's helicopter and ambulance service provide the city with emergency transport.

Information provided by the City of Charleston.

8.14.09 Pesky biters

2009-08-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

How to keep bugs from biting your summer

Bill Lamson-Scribner

Horticulture Hotline

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Q I have a pool, but with all the mosquitoes, no one is enjoying it. The grandkids even refuse to go out there! The kids are driving us crazy inside the house! Can you help us? There is a 20-foot buffer area behind our house that is like a jungle, so I'm sure many of the mosquitoes are coming from there.

A: It is hard to believe that I have been writing this column for almost 20 years. When I first started, I would hand-deliver the column that was handwritten. Fax machines were new and I did not really trust them! Now the column is typed and e-mailed, less personal but gets the job done.

Anyway, back to the mosquitoes.

First, I'm going to give you a shopping list. Pick up these items, then wage war on the mosquitoes and their breeding places in your yard. Liquid Net (the Ultimate Insect Repellent by The Liquid Fence Co.), Cyonara Lawn and Garden, Mosquito Repelling Granules, Mosquito Dunks, and Altosid Pro G are some of the basic weapons that you will need to wage war against these bloodsuckers.

Apply the Liquid Net to yourself. This product is organic and does an unbelievable job against mosquitoes, gnats, no-see-ums, ticks and other biting insects. Liquid Net is nongreasy, DEET-free and safe for the whole family. It also has a 100 percent guarantee from the manufacturer.

Last year, I had one of my customers from Possum's wanting to travel around to the various ball field complexes and sell this stuff because it worked so well, was organic and would not harm her small children. Now you are ready for the yard.

Scout around the yard for anything that holds water. Old tires, saucers under potted plants, bird baths, old flower containers or pots stacked in a corner, dog toys, kids toys, a container by the grill you use to soak wood chips in, a cooler, an old fountain, a hole in a tree and a dog's water bowl all make great places for mosquitoes to breed. Empty the water from these areas (refill the dog bowl and the bird bath daily). Many mosquitoes can breed in just an ounce of water.

If you have bigger areas of water, such as a ditch or a low area of the yard that holds water, apply the Mosquito Dunks or the Altosid Pro G. The Mosquito Dunks are an organic Bt product that kill larvae and the Altosid Pro G is a growth regulator product that contains the same active ingredient that is used in the Precor products for controlling fleas. Although Altosid is not organic, it is considered to be very safe and labeled to be used in very sensitive areas such as marshes. Turn off your irrigation when you can and correct any ongoing drainage problems.

Any pruning you can do to increase air movement and sunlight penetration will also help. Mosquitoes like moist, stagnant areas. If you can find out who has jurisdiction over the buffer area behind your house, you can determine what you can or cannot do back there.

Mosquitoes are a public health issue, so if the buffer area is not being maintained, you might be able to get some help from a government agency. A few empty beer cans can end up being home to thousands of mosquitoes! You also want to find out if you can put control products out in this area to help relieve the insect pressure around your pool.

Next, you want to mow your lawn, then spray the lawn, shrubs, trees, and mulched areas with Cyonara Lawn and Garden. This product not only kills mosquitoes but also kills chiggers, fleas, ants, ticks, spittlebugs and roaches, just to name a few other problem insects out right now.

Twelve hours before the next visit from the grandkids, apply Mosquito Repelling Granules. Check the weather (I know it is hard to do around here) because this product likes to be dry for 48 hours after application. This organic product really does a great job. It is university-tested and has also proven itself in the Lowcountry.

Many of our customers at Possum's have reported control for more than three weeks! We sell it to people putting on large fundraisers, other outdoor festivals, sporting events, as well as to individuals, and we always get positive feedback.

If this sounds like too much work, hire a professional.

Always read and follow product labels.

Bill Lamson-Scribner can be reached during the week at Possum's Landscape and Pest Control Supply, 481 Long Point Road in Mount Pleasant (971-9601), 3325 Business Circle in North Charleston (760-2600), or 606 Dupont Road in Charleston (766-1511). Fax your questions to 406-2700 or e

8.14.09 Folly Road Glass Artist

2009-08-14T13:25:00.001-07:00

Artist etches a niche

Owner of local glass business sharpened her skills in N.M.

By Josh Rosenthal

The Journal

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Photo by Josh Rosenthal

Linda Cassara, owner of Osprey Originals on Folly Road, watches as Carey Garner loads a door etched by Cassara into a pickup truck. Garner was helping a co-worker who had come to pick up the door for his parents' house.

Some of Cassara's smaller etchings, in the window of her Folly Road studio.

Linda Cassara journeyed to the desert to study with the masters.

It was some 10 years ago, she said, when after taking an adult education class in glass etching, Cassara traveled to Santa Fe, N.M., to refine her skills. There, she spent a week with well-known etched-glass artists Norm and Ruth Dobbins. When she returned, she began doing etchings through Osprey Originals, her custom etched- and stained-glass business.

Originally from Lancaster, Pa., Cassara studied social work in college and worked for more than a decade in the pharmaceutical industry, but she had dabbled in painting and needlework. Another adult education class had launched her stained-glass work 30 years ago, so the progression to glass etching was natural.

"(It's) something that really clicked with me," she said.

Today, Cassara does glasswork for homes and businesses. Her designs adorn windows, doors, room dividers, shower doors and fireplace screens, among other things. Some of her work is at Roper Hospital and Tristan restaurant.

Osprey Originals began as a hobby, and Cassara said she sold her first pieces to friends. Soon, she was selling her work part time; eventually, she left the corporate world to work full time in glass design. When

Cassara, 62, and husband Frank moved to Charleston six years ago, she built her Folly Road studio and further devoted herself to her craft.

Cassara's work entails a central irony: She uses implements of extreme power to create pieces of extreme delicacy on an incredibly fragile material. To etch glass, she uses a sandblasting nozzle powered by a 60-gallon compressor, which shoots a silicon-based abrasive at the glass. As she works, Cassara wears something like a space suit with a helmet connected to a fresh-air system.

The process results in elegant designs such as flowers, wildlife -- often birds in marsh scenes -- and geometric patterns. She compares the craft to painting except that painting involves adding to a surface, while etching is a process almost like carving on a miniature scale in that sandblasting wears away the glass ever so slightly.

Because etching is like painting, Cassara said she can etch anything she can draw. As such, her portfolio includes dragons, a yacht, loggerhead turtles and a pregnant yogi. Cassara takes photographs to be models for her sketches, but she often finds pictures on the Web. She recalls researching a specific kind of gorilla for one customer's order.

Though she still does stained-glass pieces, Cassara said most of her work is etching. The art form offers greater freedom and room for highly intricate detail, she said.

"It's a utilitarian kind of art that you can see every day," she said. "I had somebody say to me one time, 'I don't know if I want to spend this much money for a shower door. I'm the only one that's gonna see it.' My answer to her was, 'Well, my shower door is etched, and every morning when I look at that shower door ... it makes me feel good. It's beautiful.' "

The etchings in her pieces alter and control the light that passes through them, creating changing effects that shift along with the movement of the sun (and moon). Sometimes, a window that looks out onto a natural scene creates the illusion that Cassara's etching -- a horse, say, or a heron -- is part of the landscape. Some of the antique-style glass she uses is textured or distorted in some way so that the view is warped into something like a painting by an Impressionist master.

Many of Cassara's pieces serve as the artistic capstone of a new project, a final aesthetic accent. People usually come to her at the end of the construction process, she said.

"Usually my work is the last thing they think of," she said. "It's the icing on the cake."

Reach Josh Rosenthal at jrosenthal@postandcourier.com or 937-5502.

8.14.09 Local Clubs

2009-08-14T13:23:00.001-07:00

Clubs

By None None

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Historical Society

The Charleston Historical Society will co-sponsor its next lecture at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Karpeles Manuscript Museum, 68 Spring St.

The lecture, "Rediscovering Charleston: The Latest Walled-City Task Force Dig," will be presented by Dr. Nicholas Michael Butler. It is free and open to the public.

The presentation will focus on the June excavation of the 18th-century redan at East Bay Street and South Adgers Wharf.

Call Stephen White at 723-3398 or at the Karpeles Museum at 853-4651.

Woodcarvers

The Lowcountry Woodcarvers Club will carve eagle canes for veterans and do other projects.

Local branches meet in Summerville, Moncks Corner and James Island. The second Thursday of each month local branches get together from 7-9 p.m. at the National Guard Armory at 5000 Lackawanna Blvd. in North Charleston.

Beginners are welcome. Contact Angela Walker at 559-0152 or 559-0111.

Parrotheads

The Lowcountry Parrothead Club will hold its regular monthly business meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 18 at Red's Ice House (on Shem Creek), Mount Pleasant.

Topics of discussion will include upcoming socials and fundraising events. The meeting is open to the public and everyone is welcome.

The club is a nonprofit, social organization formed for anyone in the Lowcountry of South Carolina who is interested in the music of Jimmy Buffett, a variety of social activities, and a chance to volunteer for local community and environmental causes.

Contact club president Ed Gilbert at 991-4719 or visit www.lcparrotheads.org.

Claflin Alumni

The Charleston County Alumni Chapter of Claflin University will meet at 5 p.m. Aug. 15 at 323 Ashley Ave.

Preparations are being made for the annual Tea/Hat & Fashion Show to be held Oct. 4.

Contact C. Donna Harris at 207-1063 or e-mail cdonnaharris1234@yahoo.com.

Sub Vets

U.S. Submarine Veterans, Charleston Base, will meet at 7 p.m. today at Fleet Reserve Association, Wisteria Drive, Goose Creek.

Contact Ken Hutchison at 553-0935 or kennhutch@ymail.com.

Admin. Pros

The International Association of Administrative Professionals Charleston Chapter will meet at 6 p.m. Aug. 17 at North Charleston City Hall.

Dinner, which costs $10, is at 6 p.m. RSVP by Aug. 14 to 720-2401. The program at 6:45 p.m. is free.

Contact Denise at 766-9091.

Spanish meeting

The Lowcountry Spanish Club will meet at 6:45 p.m. today at Colleton Memorial Library, 600 Hampton St., Walterboro.

Anyone who would like to learn Spanish or practice Spanish skills is invited to attend.

E-mail lowcountryclub@gmail.com or contact Melissa at 549-7046.

8.14.09 Night fun on JI / Folly

2009-08-14T13:21:00.000-07:00

Nightlife

By None None

Thursday, August 13, 2009

James Island

Buffalo South: 1409 Folly Road. 406-0888. Thursdays, trivia 8-11 p.m.; Tuesdays, open mike with Everett Bigabee, 9-11 p.m.

Frankie Biggs: 1175 Folly Road. 225-4030. Thursdays, trivia; Friday, live music; Saturday and Sunday, NFL games on TV; Monday, Dave Seitz and the King Street Band; Tuesdays, karaoke at 9 p.m.; Wednesday, live music.

Kickin' Chicken: 1171 Folly Road. 795-7125. Wednesday, live trivia.

Necter Bar and Grille: 951 Folly Road. 762-9333. Thursdays, team trivia, 8-10 p.m., karaoke with Blaze, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.; Friday, Gin House Boys, 6-9 p.m.; karaoke with Blaze, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.; Saturday, Rawberry Jam, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.; Tuesday, team trivia, 8-10 p.m.; Wednesday, open mike with Mike Thompson, 9 p.m.

The Pour House: 1977 Maybank Highway. 571-4343. Tonight, early show: Aslyn & Toby Lightman "Diamonds & Rust tour," 7 p.m. doors open, late show: The Afromotive, 10:30 p.m.; Friday, Very Disco: A Daft Punk Tribute, featuring Immuzikation; Saturday, The Kevn Kinney Band; Sunday, free show: Jesse Pritchard, 5 p.m.; Tuesday, Ten Toes Up; Wednesday, Jupiters Garden.

Folly Beach

Blu Restaurant & Bar, Holiday Inn: 1 Center St. 588-6464. Friday, The Island Duo, 9 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, Soul Fish Duo, 2-5 p.m., Tropicools, 9 p.m.-midnight; Sunday, Larry George, 2-5 p.m., Hugh Price, 8-11 p.m.

The Porch on Folly: Above 11 Center St. 588-2736. Fridays, reggae, 8-11 p.m.; Sundays, reggae with Rasta Dave, 5-8 p.m.; Tuesdays, Matt Wink, 8-11 p.m.

The Crab Shack: 24 Center St. 588-3080. Thursdays, the Island Duo steel drums band, 7-10 p.m.; Friday, Folly Dogs, 9 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, Sarah Smile, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.; Monday, open mike night and live music with Hank Marley; Tuesday, trivia; Wednesday, Dave Grunstra.

Planet Follywood: 32-A Center St. 588-7380. Tonight, Hank Marly, 8 p.m.; Friday, Dan Clamp;, 9 p.m.; Saturday, the Shakin' Martinis, 8 p.m.

Rita's Seaside Grille: 2 Center St. 588-2525. Tonight, Dave Landeo; Friday, Matt Wink; Saturday, Carrie Ann Hearst; Monday, Jeff Houts; Tuesday, Pickled Beets; Wednesday, John Show.

Road House Cafe: 123 Ashley Ave. 588-2365. Tonight, Jamie Twang and the Folly Beach Bluegrass Society bluegrass jam session, 8-11 p.m.

The Sand Dollar: 3 Center St. 588-9498. Friday and Saturday, Fat Alice, 10 p.m.

Surf Bar: 103 W. Cooper Ave. 588-2009. Sundays, Danger Muffin acoustic music.

Woody's Pizza: 39 Center St. 588-0088. Thursdays, trivia at 9 p.m.

8.14.09 Habitat for Humanity has three Restores in the Lowcountry, one is located on Johns Island

2009-08-14T13:19:00.001-07:00

Charleston ReStore hidden gem for bargains

By None None

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Ann Rivers of Summerville browses the furniture section of the Charleston Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 731 Meeting St. Rivers said she often comes to the store because of the bargains. Sales at the store help fund construction of new Habitat homes.

Like the bargains that can be found within, the Charleston Habitat for Humanity ReStore is itself an almost hidden gem.

Located at 731 Meeting St. in a part of Charleston that's not exactly a mecca for shopping, the ReStore still attracts regular shoppers from all three local counties. Income generated by the store helps Habitat build homes. And to make contributing to Habitat more convenient, the ReStore now offers a free pickup service, Kayla Droney, director of development for Charleston Habitat said.

"We'll come out and pick up your donation," Droney said.

She said the pickup service has helped keep the store well-stocked with couches, chairs, kitchen settings, cabinets, tiles and doors, in addition to the many smaller household items to be found. There's everything you'll need for your home, she said.

"If you want to remodel your home, come here. You'll always find something," Droney said.

Ann Rivers of Summerville is one of many ReStore shoppers who make long journeys just to get there. She said she shops other ReStores but likes Charleston's best.

"They have more furniture here and more bargains," Rivers said.

Charleston ReStore Manager John Skelton said a great variety of goods come into the store, and from time to time a sought-after antique is donated. He said the store is always looking for volunteers to help with the store, and volunteers get a 20 percent store discount.

"It's a fun place to work and we have a wide variety of folks who shop with us. The pickup truck brings in a load every day, and every day here is different," he added.

For more information, see www.charlestonhabitat.org. Call 579-0777 for information or to arrange a free pickup.

8.14.09 Phillippe Cousteau promotes dolphin plates

2009-08-14T13:17:00.001-07:00

Cousteau helps promote plates

By None None

Thursday, August 13, 2009

EarthEcho

Philippe Cousteau, founder and chief executive officer of EarthEcho International, displays South Carolina's new dolphin license plate released July 27.

South Carolinians can now purchase a new dolphin license plate at all S.C. DMV offices.

All funds from plate purchases will go to EarthEcho International programs that help protect ocean environments, freshwater systems and wild dolphins.

Philippe Cousteau, grandson of famous oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, founded EarthEcho with his sister and mother.

Cousteau met with key community conservation leaders at the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston last month.

He will be in Columbia and Charleston promoting the license plates at the end of August.

8.14.09 Sweetness in MTP

2009-08-14T13:16:00.001-07:00

Mount Pleasant entrepreneur sweet on candymaking business

By None None

The Post and Courier

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Take a walk into Mandy Von See's candy kitchen and you get a whiff of heaven in the form of Southern pralines.

Her pralines, made with Georgia pecans, are one of the top sellers for Von See's business, the Charleston Candy Co. The shop, at 217 Lucas St. in Mount Pleasant, has been selling its candy in the Charleston area for 30 years.

The fourth-generation Mount Pleasant native went to Wando High School and graduated from Clemson University with a degree in graphic communications in 1999. After graduation, she moved around, living in Dallas, Chicago and Atlanta, and worked for clients such as Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper.

She returned to Mount Pleasant and bought the Charleston Candy Co. from its owners in February 2007.

Von See, 33, said she always has been into cooking and baking, though she never really thought she'd be selling candy as a career.

"I've always had a sweet tooth," Von See said.

After she bought the shop, she decided not only to distribute the candy but also to start making the candy herself. She taught herself through "much trial and error."

She sells high-end candy to about 60 clients in the area and ships to customers across the nation.

For a while, Von See worked out of her home before purchasing her kitchen space in the Common Courtyard.

With her background in graphic design, Von See was able to create the labeling for her candy. Her products come with ribbons and labels, all of which are produced in her kitchen.

When looking for employees, Von See didn't have to search very far. Von See's mother, sister and other members of her family pitch in whenever they can.

"It's our own project," Von See said. "We get to do something that makes people happy."

Some of her other sweet treats include pecan logs, marshmallow pluffs and chocolate pralines.

The store's signature taffy is sold in a souvenir box. As a nod to her fellow Clemson fans, Von See also makes tiger paws. If you're a Gamecock fan, you're out of luck. This candy shop owner promises never to sell Gamecock candy in her store.

Von See creates custom candies for corporate events, baby showers and weddings. She usually has two or three wedding clients per week, she said. She invites bridal parties to her kitchen to taste her candy. After brides select their favorites, Von See customizes the packaging to fit the wedding's theme.

The candy is available by order, but you can catch the Charleston Candy Co. 3 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the farmers market in Mount Pleasant.

Reach Kara Apel at 937-5709 or kapel@postandcourier.com.

8.14.09 Forecast

2009-08-14T13:14:00.001-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

81° \| 76° Detail Almanac	83° \| 77° Detail Almanac	85° \| 79° Detail Almanac	83° \| 77° Detail Almanac	83° \| 76° Detail Almanac
Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday	Tuesday

T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms

8.14.09 Charleston's best kept secret

2009-08-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

Jewel on the harbor

James Island park, owned by Charleston, a place to fish, picnic, relax and take in sweeping views

By Edward Fennell

The Journal

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Matt Compton, deputy director of Charleston parks, takes a walk on the pier added to Demetre Park earlier this year. The pier offers a spectacular view of Charleston and its harbor. Compton also said it is a great spot for fishing.

Photo by Edward Fennell

The Post and Courier

Lance Crowe (left) and Frances Fuller, both of James Island, search one of two small beaches at Demetre Park for shellfish, sharks' teeth and other goodies to take to the hermit crab tank at home. Adding to the view at the park this day was an anchored sailing vessel.

Photo by Edward Fennell

Carol Curtis of James Island relaxes on one of the two small beaches at Demetre Park.

Photo by Edward Fennell

With a view of the Charleston skyline behind them, Sarah Goldman (left) of James Island and Gregg Swanson of Mount Pleasant ride bikes at Demetre Park. The park is a 'great spot' to visit while on lunch break from work, the women said.

Photo by Edward Fennell

Damien Watson of West Ashley enjoys fishing two or three times each week from the new pier extending into Charleston Harbor from Demetre Park, formerly called Sunrise Park. During weekdays, Watson said, the pier is a quiet place to be. 'It can be crowded on the weekends,' he added.

Photo by Edward Fennell

The tooth was among shellfish and shells scattered along one of the two small beaches at the park, formerly called Sunrise Park.

Photo by Edward Fennell

Helen and Eugene McConnell, who live on James Island and just a few miles from Demetre Park, enjoy the park and its small but shady covered picnic area often. 'It's a nice, quiet little place,' Helen said.

A lot of beauty is packed into tiny Milton P. Demetre Park on James Island. The 2.5-acre site, off Wampler Drive and formerly called Sunrise Park, has a fishing pier, two small sandy riverfront beaches, marshes, a covered picnic area, small pond, field of green grass and the beginnings of a hiking trail.

The 190-foot fishing pier extending into the harbor is new, having opened in February and proving to be popular. And the park over the next year or so is slated to get even better with new amenities coming as part of Phase 2 of development.

But it's not what's in Demetre Park that may take your breath away: It's the view from the park.

The small projection of land into Charleston Harbor provides stunning vistas of the city's skyline, Patriots Point and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. The panorama that can be taken in from the park sweeps all the way from West Ashley to Sullivan's Island and includes Fort Sumter, distant lighthouses, the Fort Johnson Marine Research Center and more.

Top it off with colorful sailboats and other pleasure and commercial vessels passing by and that's a park that's hard to top. "You can't beat the view down here. It's gorgeous," Matt Compton, deputy director of parks for the city of Charleston, said while strolling the new pier.

The pier leads to a 20-by-20-foot pier head and 40-foot floating dock. Other lesser projects include steps leading to the beach areas and an automatic gate that opens the parking area 6 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.

"If you get stuck behind the gate, you (will have to) wait until the next day to leave," Compton noted.

Those projects were built with $450,000 approved by Charleston City Council for the only city-owned waterfront park on James Island.

Compton said Phase 2 will include a fishing and crabbing pier into the pond, which rises and falls with the tide, is surrounded by trees and other vegetation and often has a mirrorlike surface reflecting the surroundings.

The pond "has a completely different ecosystem from what you have on the harbor side" of the park, he said.

Also planned for Phase 2 are a small restroom facility; bollards made up of posts and chain or rope to prevent falls at some of the steep declines, where the grassy area gives way to river and marsh; and landscaping that incorporates vegetation natural to the area and will be placed so as not to hinder the views. The city intends to keep the park passive, Compton said.

Charleston City Councilwoman Kathleen Wilson said $200,000 has been appropriated for Phase 2. She said the city and police department are keeping Eastwood neighborhood residents informed of park plans and of efforts to ease concerns about traffic and use of the park by "bad actors."

Compton said he's received a lot of positive feedback about the new pier. "Sometimes it's so popular it's hard to get a spot to fish from," he said.

Damien Watson, a West Ashley resident who said he frequents the pier "two or three times a week," attested to that. He said that on a recent weekday, he was the lone fisherman on the pier, but it's crowded on weekends. Watson says he usually leaves with a bunch of whiting.

What the city has done at the park is getting approval from the man for whom the site is named. Charleston jeweler Milton P. Demetre said recently that he's proud to see the project he initiated decades ago getting the attention it deserves. He originally wanted to convert the tract to a marina. But problems mounted for him, including getting necessary permits.

"I worked on it for 20 years," he said. "It was back-breaking labor, just one man with a truck, a pick and a shovel."

Demetre sold the property to Charleston about 15 years ago for $500,000. The deed transfer included stipulations that the city build a pier, name the park for him and erect a monument explaining how the park got its name.

"Why would you name it after anyone but the guy who deeded the land and who built it?" Demetre said from his King Street shop.

When the stipulations were not done by the contractual deadline, Demetre sued the city in 2000. The lawsuit was settled in 2007 with a consent order for the city to complete the pier and other park amenities by certain deadlines.

Though Demetre thinks the park is what it is only through a long, tough battle, "it ended up really well."

Reach Edwa

7.27.09 Folly Forecast

2009-07-27T07:05:00.001-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

83° \| 77° Detail Almanac	85° \| 76° Detail Almanac	85° \| 76° Detail Almanac	85° \| 76° Detail Almanac	85° \| 77° Detail Almanac
Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday

Partly Cloudy	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms

7.23.09 Get your groove on . . .

2009-07-23T07:39:00.000-07:00

Nightlife

Thursday, July 23, 2009

JAMES ISLAND

Buffalo South: 1409 Folly Road. 406-0888. Thursdays, team trivia, 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, team trivia tournament, 7:15 p.m., open mike with Everette, 9:30 p.m.

Frankie Biggs: 1175 Folly Road. 225-4030. Thursdays, trivia; Friday, live music; Monday, Dave Seitz and King Street Band; Tuesdays, karaoke, 9 p.m.

Kickin' Chicken: 1171 Folly Road. 795-7125. Wednesday, live trivia.

Necter Bar and Grille: 951 Folly Road. 762-9333. Thursdays, team trivia, 8-10 p.m., karaoke, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.; Friday, Pet Helpers fundraiser, 7 p.m.-midnight, live music by Hodson; Saturday, Electric Wildlife, 9 p.m.-midnight; Tuesday, team trivia, 8-10 p.m.; Wednesday, open mike with Mike Thompson, 9 p.m.

The Pour House: 1977 Maybank Highway. 571-4343. Tonight, Trevor Hall with Domino Effect, 8 p.m., Old Union Original Coal Fired Southern Rock and Roll, from Nashville, 11 p.m., free show, 5 p.m.: Steven Sandifer and Friends; Friday, Cary Ann Hearst's Special Favorite Band, with the Inlaws and Ponderosa; Saturday, Emmitt Nershi Band, free show: Molly and Eleanor from the Barrel House Mamas, Moses Atwood, Tennessee Jed, 5 p.m.; Sunday, free show: Weigh Station, acoustic, 5 p.m.; Tuesday, HeadStache with Pericles; Wednesday, Sasquatch Music Presents: Manchild of Mars, Ill., Deepspace 5 of Atlanta, Lyrical BUddah, Metro Mics of Atlanta, Sintax The Terrific, Deepspace 5, Kurfu of Sasquatch, Basik Lee & Zone D, Dope Sandwich of Savannah, U.F.O. vs. Bubblegut Bros.

FOLLY BEACH

Blu Restaurant & Bar: Holiday Inn, 1 Center St. 588-6464. Friday, Larry David Project, 9 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, Calvin Taylor, 2-5 p.m., Emekris Trio, 9 p.m.-midnight; Sunday, Island Duo, 2-5 p.m.; Doug and Rik, 8-11 p.m.

The Porch on Folly: Above 11 Center St. 588-2736. Fridays, reggae, 8-11 p.m.; Sundays, reggae with Rasta Dave, 5-8 p.m.; Tuesdays, Matt Wink, 8-11 p.m.

The Crab Shack: 24 Center St. 588-3080. Thursdays, the Island Duo steel drums band, 7-10 p.m.; Friday, Folly Dogs, 9 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, Sarah Smile, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.; Monday, live local music; Tuesday, trivia.

Planet Follywood: 32-A Center St. 588-7380. Tonight, John Brackett, 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Dan Clamp, 9 p.m.; Sunday, live music.

Road House Cafe: 123 Ashley Ave. 588-2365. Tonight, Jamie Twang and the Folly Beach Bluegrass Society bluegrass jam session, 8-11 p.m.; Friday, Stained Glass Wall, 10 p.m.

The Sand Dollar: 3 Center St. 588-9498. Friday and Saturday, Johnny Mac and the Booty Ranch, 10 p.m.

Surf Bar: 103 West Cooper St. 588-2009. Sundays, Danger Muffin acoustic music.

Woody's Pizza: 39 Center St. 588-0088. Thursdays, trivia, 9 p.m.

7.23.09 Rainy Day Fun

2009-07-23T07:38:00.001-07:00

Library Programs

Thursday, July 23, 2009

The Charleston County Public Library will offer the following free programs.

SYSTEM WIDE

Be Creative: Children's Summer Reading Program (ages 11 and younger): Through July 31. All Charleston County Library branches. Children are awarded prizes for reading or being read to at levels of 5, 15 and 30 hours. Prizes include the SC reading medal, passes to community events, T-shirts and branch grand prizes.

S.C. Teens Read: Teen Summer Reading Program (students entering grades 6-12). Through July 31. All Charleston County Library branches. Read whatever you want and win prizes. The more you read, the more you can win. Weekly prize drawings, Grand Prize drawings and rewards. Fill out an S.C. Teens Speak Out survey and get a treat.

Reading Wave: Adult Summer Reading Program (ages 18 and up). Through July 31. All Charleston County Library branches. Reading Wave rewards adults for reading with weekly prizes and a grand prize package. Read alongside Charleston County's youth and cash in.

CHARLESTON AND THE ISLANDS

--Main Library, 68 Calhoun St., downtown: 805-6930.

Saul Alexander Gallery Art Exhibit: Through July 31. Margaret Wood Atwood, a Charleston photographer, will be exhibiting her black and white photographs in the Saul Alexander Gallery. The exhibit called "The Past is Present," includes images of icons no longer in Charleston, such as The Cavallaro in its original form and the expanse of the old Cooper River bridges, and those that give the impression that they will be here long after we are gone, such as the Sheldon church and the Angel Oak.

7.23.09 Leave no trace - Keep beaches clean

2009-07-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

Area beaches worth keeping clean

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Having once been young myself (and refusing to accept that I'm no longer the same), I can certainly understand the lure of beach parties and know how fun they can be. Read story.

7.23.09 Save the Redbay

2009-07-23T07:36:00.001-07:00

Efforts aim to save redbay population

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Keeping an aging champion healthy is among the goals of an experimental effort under way at the Fort Johnson Marine Research Center on James Island. The champion, at about 200 years old, is South Carolina's oldest redbay laurel tree. Read story.

7.23.09 Forecast

2009-07-23T07:35:00.001-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	88° \| 76° Detail Almanac	86° \| 76° Detail Almanac	86° \| 76° Detail Almanac
Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday

Partly Cloudy	Chance of T-storms	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy	Chance of T-storms

7.21.09 Past given new technology

2009-07-20T06:28:00.001-07:00

Slave quarters given modern touch

By Robert Behre (Contact)

The Post and Courier

Monday, July 20, 2009

The newly renovated upscale home in the former slave quarters behind 8 Vanderhorst St. shows how a modern design approach can nestle well into the old city.

But architect Robert "Buz" Morris knows the "modern" approach can make some here in Charleston uncomfortable.

"I hate to use the word 'modern' because people don't like that word," he says, "but this is a very simple, straightforward plan."

The two-story brick slave quarters were built around 1855, the same time as the main home on Vanderhorst Street. After a later stint as a bed and breakfast and who knows what else, the building had fallen on hard times.

"When we got it, it was basically a college flop house," Morris says. "The building was in dire need of structural work."

Morris, working with Mitchell Construction of Walterboro, repointed all the brick to shore up the building's 16-inch-thick walls, even recreating the bird's beak pointing — a way the mortar comes to a point between the bricks — found in its best-preserved joints.

Photo Gallery

Former slave quarters

Former slave quarters off Vanderhorst Street have been renovated in a dramatically modern way, but one that lets the building's simple brick structure shine through.

Enlarge photos | View gallery

They also added bracing to the eastern wall and built new three new interior partitions to increase its stability. On both floors, the circulation is a hallway that runs along the western wall, and the new arched openings at the partitions help obscure the wall's noticeable eastward tilt.

"You still see a lot of lean, but it's not as pronounced," Morris says.

Morris emphasized saving all the original fabric, including the bricks, ceiling trusses and heart pine floors, even a handsome marble mantel installed later.

These original parts remain the building's highlight because Morris didn't add much molding or other ornaments inside and because he subtly incorporated the modern necessities.

This minimalist approach helps hide the types of things that never were in the building originally. After all, the slaves here never had bathrooms, closets, cabinets, electrical lighting or a heating and air conditioning system.

"A lot of care has been taken for this building to make it look as simple as it does," Morris says.

The piazza, which was added later, was rebuilt using the same columns. But the pickets are now simple quarter-inch metal, and the rail is topped with teak.

"You can now sit on the porch and see through that little screen to see the garden."

Some might think of modern design as pure white or metal surfaces, but the feel inside this 2,000-square-foot home is dominated by its exposed wood and brick.

"The whole building is warm," Morris says. "When people think of modern, they think of stark white, and it doesn't have to be."

The modern details, such as the half-inch reveals around the windows and around the cloth surface between the ceiling beams, help highlight the old rather than draw attention to the new.

The two upstairs bathrooms are cleverly partitioned off from the neighboring bedrooms by glass sections in the trusses, glass that hardly can be seen but that keeps the bathroom fully separate.

Only one of the new details echoes the city's tradition: The bolt washers on the northern facade, which resemble the circular metal washers placed extensively around the city after the 1886 earthquake, simply are there to anchor a bathroom vanity.

Robert Behre may be reached at 937-5771 or by fax at 937-5579. His e-mail address is rbehre@postandcourier.com, and his mailing address is 134 Columbus St., Charleston, SC 29403.

7.21.09 Forecast

2009-07-20T06:26:00.001-07:00

Current forecast

Issued by the National Weather Service at 8:43 am EDT on July 20, 2009
Through 10 am...scattered showers will move northeast through portions of southeast Georgia and southeast South Carolina. Most of the activity will be along and to the east of Interstate 95. Were rain falls...amounts will be from a trace to a few hundredths of an inch.

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

83° \| 74° Detail Almanac	83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	85° \| 77° Detail Almanac	86° \| 76° Detail Almanac	88° \| 76° Detail Almanac
Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday

T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms

7.16.09 When it rains . . .

2009-07-16T12:06:00.001-07:00

Library Programs

Thursday, July 16, 2009

The Charleston County Public Library will offer the following free programs.

SYSTEMWIDE

Be Creative: Children's Summer Reading Program (ages 11 and younger): Through July 31. All Charleston County Library branches. Children are awarded prizes for reading or being read to at levels of 5, 15 and 30 hours. Prizes include the S.C. reading medal, passes to community events, T-shirts and branch grand prizes.

CHARLESTON AND THE ISLANDS

-- Main Library, 68 Calhoun St., downtown: 805-6930.

Small Business Counseling with SCORE (adults): 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday. Get free, confidential counseling for your start-up idea or existing business from the Charleston Coastal chapter of SCORE.

Preparing Your Nonprofit for a Crisis: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. today. A crisis can happen anytime and impact any organization, even nonprofits. Learn from experts how to prepare your organization for a crisis and the potential of a media and public firestorm.

Networking Night for Entrepreneurs (adults): 6-7 p.m. today. Need to grow your network? Bring your business cards and practice the art of networking at this monthly event.

The Magic of Houdini II: 10 a.m. Tuesday. This crowd favorite returns to entertain.

Lives of Famous Composers in Cinema Series: "The Strauss Family." 1 p.m. Tuesday. The Strauss family is as famous for scandal as it is for music. Their saga spans more than 85 years. This week view Part One: Anna and Part Two: Emilie.

Contemporary Fiction Book Discussion: 7 p.m. Tuesday. "Fieldwork" by Mischa Berlinski.

Creative Cinema: 10 a.m. Wednesday. "Pinocchio" (rated G; 88 minutes).

S.C. Teens Watch & Play: 2-4:30 p.m. Wednesday. Escape the heat and come watch a movie on the big screen. Bring a lunch or snack; free popcorn and soda will be provided. Watch "Knowing" (rated PG-13) then play "Guitar Hero" with friends after the film.

Read-A-Thon: 7-8 p.m. Wednesday. Meet your neighbors and bring the family for the Trident Literacy Association's Read-A-Thon, designed to bring the community together and reinforce the importance of reading. Special guests Chief Chris Seabolt of the James Island Fire Department and Trident Literacy Association Board member Kristal Hudson-Randall will share their love for the written word, and read aloud from their favorite books.

Lives of Famous Composers in Cinema Series: "The Strauss Family." July 28 at 1 p.m. The Strauss family is as famous for scandal as it is for music. Their saga spans more than 85 years. This week view Part Three: Schanni and Part Four: Revolution.

"Guitar Hero" Tournament (ages 10-18 only): July 29 at 3 p.m. Test your skills and rock out on the monster screen. Prizes include a $50 Best Buy gift card for the top player. Player registration starts at 2:30 p.m.; tournament begins at 3 p.m.

-- John L. Dart Branch Library, 1067 King St.: 722-7550

Win, Lose and Draw: Library Style (ages 12-17): 10:30 a.m. today. Can you draw? Well enough that someone can guess the title of popular books? Come to the Dart Library and show off your drawing skills and maybe you can lead your team to victory.

The Magic of Houdini II: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. This crowd favorite returns to entertain.

Early Bird Theatre: "Inkheart" (ages 12-17): July 23 at 10 a.m. Meggie's father, Mo, has the power to bring characters from books to life just by reading those books aloud. When he sets free some nasty characters from a medieval story, it is up to Meggie to join a group of friends to set things right. Rated PG; 106 minutes.

Date Night Cinema: "Nights in Rodanthe" (adults): July 24 at 6 p.m. Adrienne is trying to decide whether to stay in her unhappy marriage. Paul is a doctor who is traveling to reconcile with his estranged son and checks into an inn in a North Carolina beach town, where she is staying. Rated PG-13; 97 minutes.

-- Folly Beach Library, 55 Center St.: 588-2001

Summer Reading Finale: July 31 at 4 p.m. Grand prize drawings, games and pizza. Registration is requested by July 24.

-- James Island Branch Library, 1248 Camp Road: 795-6679

The Magic of Houdini II: Noon Tuesday. This crowd favorite returns to entertain.

-- Johns Island Regional Library, 3531 Maybank Highway: 559-1945

Quilted Wall Hanging Display: Through July 31. A quilted wall hanging titled "Three Generations" was designed and quilted by Master Quilter Nora R. Williams. She used an African-inspired fabric titled "Shield," designed by Kaye England.

Lowcountry Dolls: Through July 31. Sculptured Lowcountry dolls with faces made of pecan shells and other handmade dolls created by Master Quilter Nora R. Williams will be on display.

Photography Exhibit: Through July 31. Kiawah Island Photography Club will display photographs covering a range of subjects.

Wired (rising sixth- through 12th-graders): 2:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday. Teens get wired-up for fun and games at the library. Enjoy board games, card games, video games, movies and more on Wednesdays.

Knitting Group (adults): July 23 from 6-7:30 p.m. Enjoy the company of other adult knitters. Meet to exchange ideas. Bring your projects and knit with friends. Open to knitters of all skill levels.

Club Anime! (ages 12-19): 3-4:30 p.m. Saturday. It's viewers' choice on Saturday. Club members will have a choice of enjoying three episodes of "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya," "Ouran High School Host Club," "Chobits," "Mushi-shi" or "xxxHolic."

The Magic of Houdini II: 2 p.m. Monday. This crowd favorite returns to entertain.

Sea Islands Book Club (adults): 2 p.m. Tuesday. Group will be discussing "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen. Enter the world of 90-something-year-old Jacob Jankowski, who recalls life in the circus as a young man during the Great Depression, his friendship with Marlena, the equestrian act star, and Rosie the elephant, who gave them hope. Copies of the book may be obtained from the reference desk for check out while supplies last.

Read-A-Thon: July 25 at 11 a.m. Meet your neighbors and bring the family for the Trident Literacy Association's Read-a-Thon, designed to bring the community together and reinforce the importance of reading. Special guest Connie Walpole Haynie, author of "Images of America: Johns Island," will read her favorite book for story time for families.

Summer Reading Finale: July 27 at 2 p.m. Say "so long" to Summer Reading with ice cream, games and the unveiling of the new Children's Quilt with squares decorated by patrons and sewn together by Nora Williams.

7.16.09 Angel Oak

2009-07-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

Fighting to save a heritage

Preserving the Gullah culture is challenged by land development throughout the Lowcountry

By Edward C. Fennell (Contact)

The Journal

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

A family holds a picnic at a table in the small Charleston city park that features the Angel Oak. The Coastal Conservation League is hoping planners for the Gullah/Geechee Heritage Corridor will use their influence to keep proposed development from coming any closer to the tree.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

The remains of the Progressive Club, a former school building in which a locally organized adult education program in the 1960s helped rural blacks get voter registration cards, sit beside River Road on Johns Island. The club was mentioned as a site that should be preserved by the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor now being organized.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Protection for heirs' properties was mentioned by several speakers at a Johns Island meeting to gather input on the planned Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. Benjamin Dennis of West Ashley mesmerized the crowd with stories of his ancestors, including how his great-grandfather paid 50 cents an acre for Daniel Island land. Behind Dennis (from left) are attorney Willie Heyward, National Park Service liaison Michael Allen and corridor Commissioner Herman Blake.

Brad Nettles
The Post and Courier

In this 2006 photo, Bill Saunders, Abraham Jenkins and State Rep. Robert Brown look through the ruins of the Progressive Club. Saunders and Jenkins would like to see it preserve and perhaps restore River Road building.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Willie B. Heyward, an attorney for the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Commission, told a July 7 forum that as a younger man he was embarrassed to let outsiders know of his family link to the Gullah culture on Wadmalaw Island. He's proud of the culture today and wants to help preserve it.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

With a map behind her showing the location of the four-state proposed Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, Katie Zimmerman, project manager for the Coastal Conservation League, asks that the planned corridor offer protection for Johns Island's Angel Oak.

As a young man, Willie B. Heyward cringed when his college classmates in California became aware of his ties to the Gullah culture on Wadmalaw Island.

But these days, the 63-year-old attorney in North Charleston is proud of that heritage. Heyward is a legal representative for the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, created by federal law in 2006 with the goal of identifying and preserving tangible and intangible artifacts of the culture that grew from the merging of European and African cultures beginning in Colonial southeastern America.

The corridor stretches along the coast, 10 miles inland, from the Jacksonville area through Georgia and South Carolina and to the Wilmington area in North Carolina. A July 7 forum on Johns Island was one of about 20 held in the corridor but among the last scheduled before officials begin work on a corridor management plan.

A Burke High School grad who went on to earn college and law degrees in California, Heyward was among the speakers, some of whom came from as far away as Edisto, Colleton County and Beaufort, at the Johns Island forum.

Several speakers asked that the corridor provide legal protection to heirs' properties, and also include protection for the Angel Oak and the remains of the Progressive Club on Johns Island and McLeod Plantation on James Island. In the 1960s, locals organized an adult education program at the Progressive Club to help blacks earn voter registration cards, Abraham Jenkins said.

"The roof fell in and there are just brick walls there now," he told the forum.

Heyward said a real philosophical change has come about concerning the Gullah culture, which was once largely looked down upon by outsiders.

"Gullah was not something to be proud of," Heyward said, remembering how he was embarrassed about it as a youth. "But we didn't know what we had," he added, pointing out that the culture has now gained respect and is revered.

He said tourists come to the Lowcountry to soak up the culture and take home arts and crafts and sweetgrass baskets that owe their existence to it. Heyward and others noted that they have been in faraway states when strangers complimented them on their Gullah roots. But Heyward said the culture is in extreme danger.

"We have to preserve our heritage or it's going to get wiped away," he warned. He and others cited pressures from development, convenient forms of travel and proliferation of a national media as among the threats to the culture.

In the time of his youth, Heyward said Gullah "was a rich culture but very insular," and kept that way by a lack of infrastructure, such as roads and water and sewer services.

"Charleston is slowly but surely becoming cosmopolitan. I see young people on the islands with no connection to the culture, which has a very difficult time thriving in places like James Island and Mount Pleasant," he said.

Heyward said Gullah is a land-based culture, and that makes preserving the land where the culture was born, and in places it still thrives, important.

Heirs' properties are lands on which descendants of perhaps the original purchaser are living. Several generations sometimes occupy a large heir's property tracts, with no one having a clear title to the land. Developers sometimes chip away at the tracts, persuading individuals to sell off what they see as their portion.

Benjamin Dennis IV of West Ashley described how, more than 100 year ago, his great-grandfather paid 50 cents per acre for a 22-acre farm on Daniel Island. He said only half an acre is left, "and every other week someone offers $900,000 for it," he said. "I'm proud to be a 'Geechee boy' and told my grandfather I would never sell it," he insisted.

Heyward said the preservation of lands vital to the Sea Island culture often comes down to "heritage vs. money, and guess who is going to win," he added.

Michael Allen, National Park Service Gullah/Geechee coordinator, said coming up with a management plan will be a real challenge for the corridor coordinators. The plan will be tailored to residents' needs, and the amount and quality of input has been tremendous, he said.

Allen said corridor officials already have been contacting local and state officials regarding the many goals set by residents, and issues with heirs' properties certainly will be among matters discussed.

For more information, contact Allen at the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, 881-5516, ext. 12, or visit www.nps.gov/guge.

Reach Edward C. Fennell at efennell@postandcourier.com or 937-5560.

7.16.09 Forecast

2009-07-16T12:03:00.001-07:00

Current forecast

Issued by the National Weather Service at 2:08 PM EDT on July 16, 2009
Showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop over and move into southeast South Carolina and southeast Georgia through 330 PM. The strongest storms through around 245 PM will affect Tattnall...Candler and Evans counties in southeast Georgia...including locations in and near Cobbtown...Collins... reidsvillle...and Claxton. Gusty winds to 40 mph and frequent cloud to ground lightning are expected with the stronger storms.

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

85° \| 79° Detail Almanac	85° \| 79° Detail Almanac	83° \| 72° Detail Almanac	85° \| 70° Detail Almanac	81° \| 72° Detail Almanac
Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday

Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	T-storms	Partly Cloudy	Chance of T-storms

7.16.09 Saving Lives

2009-07-16T12:02:00.001-07:00

Guarding lives

Parks, recreation director wants to put more lifeguards on the job to protect swimmers on county's beaches

By Robert Behre (Contact)

The Post and Courier

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Charleston County may expand dramatically the number of lifeguards stationed on its beaches next summer after a recent rash of drownings and surf rescues.

County Park and Recreation Commission Director Tom O'Rourke said Wednesday he hopes to spend about $300,000 more next summer to increase the number of lifeguards and to patrol areas beyond the county's three beach parks.

Brad Nettles
The Post and Courier

Folly Beach County Park lifeguard Michael Reynolds keeps a close eye on beachgoers as they swim Wednesday. Charleston County parks chief Tom O'Rourke plans to ask the County Council for help in hiring more lifeguards.

O'Rourke said his frustration over these preventable deaths has been building for years, and he plans to appear before Charleston County Council next week to discuss what to do. He wants to expand the lifeguard areas by about 50 percent next year and by similar amounts in the next two years.

"I'm personally tired of sitting here saying, 'At least it didn't happen in our park,' " he said. "It's still a deceased person. It's still our larger responsibility."

O'Rourke said the commission has some money available to begin hiring and training more lifeguards next spring so they can hit the beaches.

He plans to ask County Council if it would consider providing additional support, possibly in the form of a small property tax increase or a chunk of hotel tax revenue.

There is precedent for PRC lifeguards working areas beyond a county park.

Three years ago, O'Rourke and Folly Beach Mayor Carl Beckmann Jr. hatched a plan to station about a half-dozen lifeguards a few blocks on either side of the Folly Beach Fishing Pier.

"As far as the city is concerned, it's a big plus. It's not costing the city a dime," Beckmann said, adding that a growing number of visitors congregate on this stretch of beach because it is guarded.

Veteran has eye for rip currents, published 7/16/2009

"Based on what I've seen and what I've heard," he said, "I know they're doing a lot of good being there."

Currently, central Folly and the three county parks on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms and Kiawah Island are the only areas on the county's coast with regular lifeguards.

But the spate of drownings is not limited to local beaches. Last month, an 18-month-old toddler drowned in a backyard pool in Ladson, a 6-year-old drowned in North Charleston and a 40-year-old Cross man succumbed to the currents of the Ashley River while crabbing beneath the North Bridge.

O'Rourke said he wants the new effort to include swimming lessons and water safety. He said he would like to start using the county's three water parks, Whirlin' Waters, Splash Zone and Splash Island, for swimming classes.

Previous stories

Three teens rescued near Sullivan's Island, published 07/13/09

Beachgoers still on edge, published 07/12/09

Another death, three more rescued, published 07/11/09

"We want to do the work beforehand so we don't have to make that rescue," he said, likening it to firefighters who try to prevent fires instead of simply putting them out.

The beach safety crisis appeared to peak last week, as the body of Tara Lynn McAlister of Goose Creek was found on Folly Beach, Anna Finkelstein of New York disappeared after fighting a powerful current near Breach Inlet on Sullivan's Island, and three other swimmers were rescued from Sullivan's.

O'Rourke said he would be interested in putting lifeguards on Sullivan's as well as expanding their current territory on other islands. He said he would be willing to work with each area on the specifics such as hours, locations and other details.

Ultimately, if the Park and Recreation Commission gets the support it needs, O'Rourke said the expanded patrols and education efforts could cost about $1 million more per year. The exact nature of the program will depend on what kind of support the commission can get.

Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor said council's ultimate decision on whether to help would be made only after all the facts and figures are known. "Anything that's going to improve public safety, we would be glad to take a look at it."

O'Rourke said he would like it if there eventually were lifeguards on every stretch of the county's beaches, "but we have to bite off the amount we can chew and then take the next step and the next step."

"It's our problem," he said, "and we're going to solve it."

Reach Robert Behre at 937-5771 or at rbehre@postandcourier.com.

7.10.09 Pet Waste Law

2009-07-10T06:40:00.001-07:00

Clean up pet waste: It's the law

Dr. Katherine A. Saenger

Ask the vet

Thursday, July 9, 2009

I received an e-mail from a reader who owns the local franchise of DoodyCalls. (Who knew there was a business out there that will come by and pick up your pet's waste? But more on that later.) He suggested that I discuss the topic of pet waste from the perspective of human health and environmental protection.

Then I received a letter from the Keep Charleston Beautiful initiative requesting help from local veterinarians and businesses to help spread the word that picking up your pet's waste is not only the right thing to do, it's the law.

The Charleston Environmental Control Ordinance, Article 2, Sec. 26-2(f) states that it is unlawful for anyone to allow their dog or cat to "discharge its excreta" on the pet owner's property or anywhere else unless that person immediately removes the waste from the public or private property. Violation of this ordinance could carry a fine of up to $1,092.

So now that I have been prompted and am supported by city law, I will get on my soap box about pet waste. I used to live where I shared parking and dog-walking space with my neighbors. It drove me crazy that my neighbors would leave their dog's waste in the parking lot, where inevitably, at least once a week, I would step in it on my way to the car. Grrrrr. Even after I learned that, in some countries, it is considered good luck to step in dog poop, I did not appreciate the experience one iota.

If you aren't at risk of stepping in dog poop, why should you care? Aside from the law, there are both health and environmental reasons to pick up dog or cat waste and place it in a specific type of composting container or a garbage can, where it will be taken away to a dump where runoff is controlled.

Pet waste is carried into the storm drains, which flow, untreated, into our fragile rivers and marshes. The federal Environmental Protection Agency explains that this waste provides nutrients for weeds and algae that limit the amount of light that can penetrate the water's surface and choke off oxygen supplies for fish and other marine life. Consider that dogs and cats in the Charleston area produce more than 10,000 pounds of waste daily.

Pet excreta also can carry bacteria, viruses and parasites that could infect other domestic pets as well as wildlife and humans. Roundworms are deposited in infected animal's feces, where they become infective to children who play in the sand or dirt. If a child ingests an infective egg, the larvae could migrate to their eyes and cause blindness. This is why we deworm puppies and kittens every two to three weeks when they are young, as young animals are the No. 1 carrier of this parasite.

Toxoplasmosis results from a parasite carried in cat waste. If a woman in her first trimester of pregnancy ingests an infective organism, it could cause birth defects in the baby. Most woman are infected from their gardens or from food that has been contaminated on the farm.

Contrary to what you might think, pet feces does not make good fertilizer. It actually burns and discolors your lawn, so don't use that excuse to leave your pet's waste lying around. So what can you do to help?

First, when you are walking your dog, take along a plastic baggie to pick up the feces immediately. Deposit it in a public waste receptacle or in your own garbage can. Second, pick up waste from your yard. This is where DoodyCalls comes in. It supplies technicians who come out to your house to do this for you. If you live in an apartment or condo, talk to your renter's or homeowner's association and have it hire a company such as DoodyCalls that will help keep the grounds free of pet waste.

Check out doodycalls.com for information, but you don't need a professional to do the right thing. Just realize that pet waste is dangerous to you and the environment, and clean it up.

Dr. Katherine A. Saenger owns Bees Ferry Veterinary Hospital and Boarding Kennel and is a former board member of the John Ancrum SPCA. Send questions to her at vetsaenger@bellsouth.net, or visit www.beesferry.com.

7.10.09 Local Shop - reflects rugby + soccer

2009-07-10T06:35:00.001-07:00

Local shop reflects owner's passion for rugby, soccer

By Josh Rosenthal (Contact)

The Post and Courier

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Josh Rosenthal
The Post and Courier

Rob Jones sorts through new rugby jerseys while attaching price tags at Cambria Sports, his recently opened rugby and soccer equipment store.

If you're lucky, you find work that marries your passions and your paycheck.

Rob Jones is one of the lucky ones.

Three months ago, the former police officer and car salesman opened Cambria Sports, a rugby and soccer equipment store on Sam Rittenberg in West Ashley. As someone born outside the United States, Jones can properly be called an authority on both sports.

Jones, 36, is a fan first and a businessman second. Growing up in the small town of Llanelli, Wales, he was a devoted player and fan of rugby and soccer. Too often he couldn't find the equipment he needed, so he puts himself in the fan or player's position when choosing which items to stock.

"It helps (to have) the perspective from the other side of the counter," he said. "Because I play both sports and I follow both sports, I can say, 'OK, would I buy this?' "

He carries a consistent supply of popular team jerseys, but much of his time is spent hunting down unique items. If he can't find what a customer wants, Jones said, he'll find it or wear himself out looking.

Cambria Sports also serves as a sort of United Nations of local sports fans. A fair number of international expatriates walk through the door, including Irish, Scottish, South African and South American fans, Jones said. They may come in to shop, or they'll watch one of the soccer or rugby games that are always playing on the shop's TVs. Jones will even open the store to host parties for important games that fans can't get on their televisions at home.

Jones's work is a lot like diplomacy: He acts as the area's rugby representative. He plays on the Charleston Outlaws men's rugby team and you can often find him in the stands at The Citadel or College of Charleston rugby games.

It's clear that soccer is huge in the area, but Jones is confident that rugby is gaining popularity as well. "It's such a contact sport that Americans, once they see it, love it," he said. For customers who want to learn the game, Jones often has a copy of "Rugby for Dummies" handy and invites them to the Outlaws' practices.

In time, Jones hopes to establish himself as an outfitter of local athletes. He is working with Charleston United, a youth soccer organization, on plans to supply team uniforms. The satisfaction he gets from helping youngsters play the games he loves is obvious.

"I was watching (a West Ashley soccer team) doing their training the other day," he said, "and there was a little girl like this high, and she was wearing a little Welsh soccer jersey I knew she bought from here. It was pretty cool seeing that."

Contact Josh Rosenthal at 937-5502.

7.10.09 Former Chas golf pro Bob Boyd

2009-07-10T06:33:00.000-07:00

Update on former Charleston pro Bob Boyd

Posted 12:57 p.m., July 6, 2009

Skimming through the July 6 issue of GolfWorld Magazine, I came across an article by John Huggan on former Charleston resident and longtime Carolinas PGA pro Bob Boyd – “A North Carolinian in Europe, Boyd enjoys life’s second chance.” Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find a link on the magazine’s website, but to catch you up on Boyd I’ll include some of what I know and some of what’s in the article.
Boyd, 54 and a native of the Wilmington, N.C., area, was the head pro at the Country Club of Charleston, later spent a couple of years on the PGA Tour, worked at Melrose on Daufuskie Island before eventually returning to Wilmington. He's been one of the most successful players in the Carolinas PGA Section.
Boyd won the 2004 European Seniors Tour Qualifying School and went on the win the 2005 Castellon Costa Azahar Spanish Open. But at the end of the 2005 season, Boyd was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. He underwent chemo, lost 60 pounds and in June 2006 received a bone marrow transplant. That December, Boyd won a Carolinas Senior PGA title at Crowfield.
According to the magazine, Boyd played one European Seniors Tour event in 2007, and learned in May of that year that the cancer had returned. He received a new procedure called a Donor Lymphocyte Infusion in which cells were infused into his arm with those cells going out and killing the cancerous cells.He's doing well since the procedure.
Boyd finished 23rd on the 2008 Order of merit with $91,312 European to earn exempt status for 2009 and this year $49,614 European in six events, including a playoff loss to Ian Woosnam in the Irish Open.
The Golf World article concluded with the following quote after Boyd finished T-21 in the DeVere Collection PGA Seniors Championship, one of the biggest events on the European Seniors circuit: "Truly, I am lucky to be alive. I was close to death more than once, and feel humbled to be playing golf at all. I'm still competitive though. But I have changed; in spiritual, physical and emotional ways I am different I appreciate everything so much more. I certainly get over a bad shot or a bad round a whole lot easier. For me, every day is precious."

-- Tommy

7.10.09 MOXIE events

2009-07-10T06:30:00.000-07:00

back to Moxie home

Events for July 10-16

Friday, July 10, 2009

Join Lowcountry Local First and celebrate your independents at the 10 Percent Shift Launch Party. This is a grass-roots movement of residents, businesses, government agencies and nonprofits working to shift 10 percent or more of their annual budgets to locally owned and independent businesses. Food from Taco Boy, Monza, the BBQ Joint and Street Food will be available along with Firefly Vodka, beer and music with Part-Time Heroes. 7-10 p.m. today at 10 Storehouse Row, The Navy Yard at Noisette. Admission is 10 cents. For info: www.lowcountrylocalfirst.org.

Peace Rising!, a free presentation on creating peace and bringing social change with nonviolent communication, will be held 3-5 p.m. Sunday at the Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. Catherine Cadden, a nonviolent communication certified trainer, and Jesse Wiens, the founder of ZENVC, will be sharing stories, video and photos from recent experiences in Afghanistan, Australia, U.S. high schools, and in the Alaskan and Canadian wilderness. The duo also will be offering "An Introduction to Nonviolent Communication: Making Peace With Ourselves and Others" from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the same location. For info: 805-6930.

Cool off at the Baked Ice Cream Social, complete with a make-your-own sundae bar. The event is to launch Baked's new line of ice creams made in Ravenel at Wholly Cow. It takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at 160 East Bay St. Cost is $5 per person, free for children under 18, and includes the sundae bar, brownies a la mode, coffee and other drinks. For more info: 577-2180 or www.bakedcharleston.com.

7.10.09 Please RESPECT Folly Beach!

2009-07-10T06:26:00.001-07:00

Beach cleanup

Volunteers turn out to pick up litter after holiday weekend crowds left behind a mess that shocked residents, officials

By Edward C. Fennell (Contact)

The Post and Courier

Friday, July 10, 2009

FOLLY BEACH — Many of the volunteers who turned out Thursday to help clean up the beach felt a duty to make amends for the way it was treated over the Fourth of July weekend.

"We enjoy the beach all year long, and this is a good way to give something back," Pastor Tom Brown of James Island Baptist Church said as he picked up cigarette butts, cellophane wrappers and other small bits of refuse from the sand.

Wade Spees
The Post and Courier

South Carolina Aquarium staffers Kelly Thorvalson (from front to back), Megan Westmeyer and Emily Preston, pushing 11-month old daughter Maleah, did their monthly cleanup along Folly Beach on Thursday. For the first time, volunteers from the community (background) helped.

Mayor Carl Beckmann Jr. said more than 90 percent of the litter picked up by the city earlier this week was alcohol-related, but he's no longer considering asking City Council to ban alcohol consumption on the beach. He said such a ban wouldn't solve the problem but would hurt the people who live here.

Stricter enforcement of litter and underage drinking laws might be what the city must do, he said.

Folly is the area's only beach that allows alcohol drinking — from cups but not cans or bottles — on the sand. The council meets July 28 but may also hold a council workshop before then to discuss the litter issue, Beckmann said.

Brown was among about 30 people who turned out for the regularly scheduled beach cleanup organized by the South Carolina Aquarium. The aquarium staff mounts a cleanup all year from the 6th Street West beach access. The cleanup was the first in which volunteers from outside the organization were invited to take part, and comes on the heels of an excessive amount of littering on the beach during the holiday weekend.

Chad Kuhar of Folly Beach was among island residents who turned out. "Living here, I want to be part of the solution," he said.

Brown said a church visitor from Indiana, Marsha Kline, inspired him to enlist youths from the church and to come out himself after learning about the litter the city and other volunteers cleaned up early this week.

See the results without voting.

Beckmann said the beach Sunday was awash in beer cans and bottles, cups, beer packaging, whisky bottles, broken coolers, food wrappers and other debris. So much debris was gathered that trash trucks making their regularly scheduled rounds could not handle it, he said.

Beckmann said the city is grateful for the aquarium's cleanups, adding the city is trying to organize a volunteer brigade of its own to clean and "be the eyes and ears of the city" regarding littering and other problems.

Folly weighs ban in wake of beer litter cleanup, published 07/07/09

Among items netted in the cleanup were a discarded skim board, shoes, beer bottles and hundreds of cigarette butts. Aquarium Sustainable Seafood Coordinator Megan Westmeyer said the butts are not biodegradable and can be fatal to fish.

Cleanup organizer Rosanne Runyeon, education programs instructor for the aquarium, said Thursday's turnout "is a dream come true." Keeping the beach clean not only helps people to enjoy the beach but also benefits wildlife, including sea turtles that are nesting this time of year, she said.

Aquarium Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Elizabeth Bender said the cleanup illustrates that the aquarium not only teaches wildlife protection and conservation, but practices it.

Reach Edward C. Fennell at efennell@postandcourier.com or 937-5560.

7.10.09 Five Day Forecast

2009-07-10T06:24:00.001-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

81° \| 74° Detail Almanac	85° \| 74° Detail Almanac	85° \| 77° Detail Almanac	88° \| 76° Detail Almanac	85° \| 77° Detail Almanac
Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday	Tuesday

Chance of T-storms	Clear	Clear	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms

6.23.09 Chas Co Parks Event Calendar

2009-06-23T07:00:00.001-07:00

Charleston County Parks

Thursday, June 18, 2009

For some Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission activities, a chaperon is required for participants 15 and younger. Registration is required for all programs and some special events. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com to register.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Waterparks Open: Visit Whirlin' Waters, Splash Zone and Splash Island. Splash Zone waterpark within James Island County Park, Palmetto Islands' Splash Island waterpark and Wannamaker County Park's Whirlin' Waters Adventure Waterpark are open daily. For rates, visit www.splashparks.com.

Moonlight Mixer: Dance the night away under the stars at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier with the return of the popular Moonlight Mixers. On June 26 from 7-11 p.m., local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around. Advance tickets are $10 and $8 for Charleston County residents. If available, tickets purchased on-site are $10. Only 600 tickets will be sold for this event. No refunds or exchanges.

Pier Fishing Tournaments: Registration for all tournaments begins at 6 a.m. and takes place on-site only. Tournaments end at 4 p.m. and prizes are awarded at 4:15 p.m. For additional information, call the Folly Beach Fishing Pier at 588-3474. Meets at: Folly Beach Fishing Pier. Age: 3 and up. Fee: $12/$9 CCR Discount/$7 ages 3-12 CCR & NCR. $14/$12 CCR Discount (King Mackerel). 6 a.m.-4 p.m. June 27.

JUNE PROGRAMS

Early Morning Bird Walks at Caw Caw: The walk through distinct habitats allows participants to discuss birds, butterflies and other organisms. Preregistration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Meets at Caw Caw Interpretive Center. $5/free for Gold Pass members. 8:30 a.m.-noon June 20, 24, 27.

Parent & Child Trips: Folly River Kayaking. Join group for a paddle along Folly River. A registered and paid chaperon is required for participants ages 16 and under. Preregistration required. Meets at: CCPRC Headquarters. Age: 8 and up. Fee: $34/$28 CCR Discount. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 20.

Triathlon Series: The Charleston Triathlon Club presents the 19th annual Sprint Triathlon Series. This year's series will consist of four triathlons and will include a 0.3-mile swim, a 13-mile bike ride and a 5K run. Events are June 21, July 12, Aug. 2 and Aug. 16. To register, contact Paul King at 881-8872.

Local Sea Kayak Trips: Morris Island Lighthouse Kayak Tour. Come on out and explore your Lowcountry backyard waterways. Paddle from Sunrise Park to Morris Island. Once there, group will highlight the cultural history of this barrier island. Pre-registration required. Meets at: CCPRC Headquarters. Age: 16 and up. Fee: $54/$45 CCR Discount. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 21.

Introduction to Climbing: Climbing Technique 101. Climb smarter not harder, as group covers the basics of climbing technique where small gains in technique lead to big gains in ability. Pre-registration required. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 10 and up. Fee: $30/$25 CCR Discount. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. June 21.

Surf Seining: Gain a new perspective on creatures of the surf zone. A registered and paid chaperon is required for participants ages 15 and under. Pre-registration required. Meets at: Isle of Palms County Park. Age: 6 and up. Fee: $9/$7 CCR Discount. 5-6:30 p.m. June 23.

Summer Entertainment Series: JuggleSTUFF, starring Ben Matthews, will provide an entertaining show that will involve juggling knives, balls and clubs. Seating begins at 9:30 a.m. Advance registration for groups of 15 or more required seven days prior to each show. Only 300 seats will be sold for each show.

-- Meets at: Wannamaker County Park Cypress Hall. Age: Best suited for ages 3-12. Fee: $5/$4 CCR Discount/$5 walk-in/Free: chaperons and children ages 2 and under. 10-11 a.m. June 24.

-- Meets at: James Island County Park Edisto Hall. Age: Best suited for ages 3-12. Fee: $5/$4 CCR Discount/$5 walk-in/Free: chaperons and children ages 2 and under. 10-11 a.m. June 25.

Introduction to Climbing: Rescue for Climbers 101. Learn valuable rescue skills for your next rock climbing trip. Preregistration required. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 16 and up. Fee: $72/$60 CCR Discount. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 27.

Introduction to Climbing: Knots, Knots, Knots. Experienced staff will walk you through some of climbing's basic knots and a few of the more advanced ones as well. Pre-registration required. Meets at: James Island County Park. Age: 14 and up. Fee: $18/$15 CCR Discount. 10 a.m.-noon June 27.

Step & Steep — A Tea Farm Tea Party: Tea, once grown commercially at Caw Caw and now naturalized, thrives under oak and pine trees here. A registered and paid chaperon is required for participants ages 15 and under. Pre-registration required. Meets at: Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Age: 9 and up. Fee: $10/$8 CCR Discount. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. June 27.

6.23.09 Be a volunteer on your vacation

2009-06-23T06:57:00.001-07:00

Gateway to independence

Habitat for Humanity home-repair program helps teen with cerebral palsy achieve self-sufficiency

By Almar Flotildes (Contact)

The Post and Courier

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Almar Flotildes
The Post and Courier

Rick Singletary (left), a volunteer from the James Island Zaxby’s, and Tripp Clayton, a Lowcountry Zaxby’s partner, install a new window for Eula Thompson’s house.

Almar Flotildes
The Post and Courier

Micah Greene, 17, checks his e-mail on his desktop computer. Micah, Eula Thompson's grandson, has cerebral palsy but is able to control the computer using a special device that lets his head movements control the mouse.

Almar Flotildes
The Post and Courier

Laurel Prichard, volunteer coordinator for Habitat for Humanity, talks with Thompson, one of the first recipients of Habitat's new home repair program. New windows and doors will be installed at her West Ashley home. Ramps leading outside will also be built and her back porch will be enclosed with screens.

Almar Flotildes
The Post and Courier

Dani Montgomery (left), a volunteer from the Azalea Square Zaxby's, removes glass from the aluminum siding as Phillip Atkins (center) strips the siding from another window. A team from several Zaxby's locations across the Lowcountry came to help out last week with Charleston Habitat's second home-repair project. Also pictured (from left) are Thompson, Prichard and Clayton.

Almar Flotildes
The Post and Courier

Phillip Atkins, a volunteer from the Sam Rittenberg Zaxby's, works from inside Eula Thompson's bedroom to remove an old window siding.

Micah Greene, a teenager with cerebral palsy, is bound mostly to his wheelchair. Since his hands and arms move uncontrollably, he can't do many things by himself. But just like a lot of teens, his innate desire for independence is there.

About a week into summer break after his first year in high school, his grandmother, Eula Thompson, pushed Micah, 17, to his desk and tried to help him navigate through the icons on his desktop computer, which was donated to him. But he complained to her that he wanted do it himself.

"Just like a teenager," Thompson said lovingly. "Wants to be more independent."

Though it takes him a bit longer than most people, Micah can check his e-mail, advance to new levels on Internet games and do other things on the computer that Thompson, 68, said she can't even figure out.

When Thompson adopted her grandson in 1997 after his mother could no longer take care of him, she was always looking to make her West Ashley home more accessible for Micah. She just didn't have the resources to make it happen.

Thankfully, her prayers were answered by Habitat for Humanity.

Known mainly for constructing new homes for needy families, Charleston Habitat started a new program earlier this year called the Homeowner Home Repair Program where qualified families are able to get their homes repaired to become more livable and before they become too dilapidated.

The program has been a five-year concept geared toward older folks that has now come to fruition, according to Kayla Droney, Charleston Habitat's director of development.

"We saw that there was a huge need for these home repairs," Droney said.

So far, Thompson is the second beneficiary among three families who are scheduled to get the home-repair treatment from the program this year.

Charleston Habitat has almost completed renovating a North Charleston home belonging to a disabled woman. They replaced Andrea Gardner's asbestos siding, installed energy-efficient doors and windows, replaced her roof and made her bathroom handicap-accessible. (To read the story, go to: Self-confidence blooms in service to Habitat families.)

Habitat is doing much of the same to Thompson's home, where she's lived since 1995. By next month, volunteers will finish enclosing Thompson's back porch with screen covers and installing ramps that lead outside along with new doors and storm windows to help with energy costs.

Workers from several Zaxby's restaurants around the Lowcountry helped start the work last week.

Tripp Clayton, a Zaxby's partner, said they do service projects around the community each quarter.

"I think it's real important to support the community where we do business," Clayton said. "Projects like this give us an opportunity to get involved."

When the repairs are done, Micah can go onto the back porch, free of biting gnats, and play music, which Thompson said he loves to do outside. Micah, who plays baseball with the Charleston Miracle League and is in the Navy Junior ROTC at West Ashley High School, said he loves listening to the Jonas Brothers.

"You don't know what a blessing it was," Thompson said about finding out she was on the list to get her home remodeled.

Thompson, who said she lives to serve God and to serve others, retired in 2000 from her patient care assistant job at the Medical University of South Carolina. She's involved in several organizations, including a health ministry and the Advocacy Coalition for People with Disabilities.

She's lived on the biblical philosophy of helping others who can't help themselves, she said. Along with taking care of Micah, Thompson has helped five foster children who have gone on to be adopted by other families.

"I decided that I was not just going to retire," Thompson said. "I wanted to give back and make sure I was not living in vain."

Now that people are giving back to her, Thompson said she's still doing everything for Micah.

"I want to show him that he can get the best help and get the best love I can give him," Thompson said. "And help him become the best that God wants him to be."

For more information about the program, or if you want to help, contact Charleston Habitat for Humanity at 722-7145 or visit www.charlestonhabitat.org.

Reach Almar Flotildes at 937-5659 or aflotildes@postandcourier.com.

6.23.09 5 Day Forecast

2009-06-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

85° \| 77° Detail Almanac	85° \| 76° Detail Almanac	86° \| 76° Detail Almanac	88° \| 76° Detail Almanac	88° \| 79° Detail
Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday

Clear	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy

6.14.09 Charleston Roses

2009-06-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Former nuisance is coming up roses

Sunday, June 14, 2009

What once was a civic nuisance is now Charleston's newest source of civic pride. Several years ago, downtown merchants and residents griped about youths selling roses that they wove from palmetto fronds.
Read More

6.14.09 Goodwill planting

2009-06-14T19:31:00.001-07:00

Planting goodwill on Wadmalaw Island

Garden Club of Charleston landscapes property for Sea Island Habitat for Humanity

By Edward C. Fennell (Contact)

The Journal

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Kennitha LaBoard and her children — Z'aire, 2, (right); Dominic, 5; and Tremayne, 10 months — check out a vegetable garden planted by the Garden Club of Charleston at their Habitat for Humanity home on Wadmalaw Island.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Ripening tomatoes hang from vines planted by the Garden Club of Charleston at the Habitat home of Kennitha LaBoard. She said the family will be grateful for the fresh fruits and vegetables the garden will provide all summer.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Two-year-old Z'aire LaBoard is ready to roll on his toy tractor and to continue the landscaping efforts the Garden Club of Charleston started at his Wadmalaw Island home.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Becky Greene (left) and Sue Lawley, both of the Garden Club of Charleston, show 2-year-old Z'aire LaBoard some of the flowering plants the club put in place beside the LaBoards' home.

Edward Fennell
The Post and Courier

Kennitha LaBoard (right) and her family — Tremayne (in stroller), Z'aire (next to LaBoard) and Dominic — on the steps of their Habitat for Humanity Home on Wadmalaw Island. Their acre of property was landscaped as part of a Garden Club of Charleston annual project.

Z'aire LaBoard is just 2, but after watching the Garden Club of Charleston put flowers, trees, bushes and fruit- and vegetable-bearing plants around his Wadmalaw Island home, the little lad was ready to do some more landscaping on his toy tractor.

The boy and his toy will have to wait a little longer for the chance. The garden club did a thorough job this spring landscaping the Sea Island Habitat for Humanity property.

The club considered some sites close by but settled on the LaBoard property for its annual spring landscaping project.

The site is 30 miles from Charleston, but in taking on the project, the club extended its outreach while fulfilling a commitment to the National Garden Club's Open Your Hearts and Hands Project, said outgoing Charleston club President Becky Greene.

"We are a working garden club," added club member Sue Lawley, who headed up the landscaping project. "This is one small project. We maintain five gardens in town."

Lawley got several businesses on James and Johns islands involved and organized the volunteer labor force.

For Kennitha LaBoard, who owns the three-bedroom home that was landscaped, the club planted more than just attractive and functional vegetation all around the property. The club planted a lot of goodwill, she said.

LaBoard is the mother of Z'aire, 5-year-old Dominic and 10-month-old Tremayne. Mom said she's grateful for the entire project.

The decorative plants will improve the exterior views, and the tomatoes, peppers, watermelons and other fruits and vegetables the family will harvest will make delicious salads and side dishes. The crops also will help keep down the family's grocery bill, she predicted.

"Tremayne and I eat a lot of spinach and a lot of tomatoes," LaBoard said.

A lifelong Wadmalaw Island resident, LaBoard works at Sea Island Habitat's ReStore. When she heard that the garden club had chosen a Sea Island home for a landscaping project, she at first was unaware that the site was her home.

Lawley said the club in the past has chosen Habitat of Charleston sites for its landscaping projects. "But they didn't have a home available for us to landscape in this time period," she said.

LaBoard, who moved with her children into the Richard McCloud Lane Habitat home this year, was at work at the ReStore when she learned in a discussion with Greene that her home was the one the club chose for its 2009 project.

Greene also didn't know at first that she was talking to the occupant of the home that was going to be landscaped. Greene recalled the conversation after telling LaBoard the project was for a Sea Island home.

"Is it on Wadmalaw?" LaBoard asked. "Is it at McCloud Lane?"

Yes and yes.

They put two and two together.

Greene and Lawley said the home sites for most of the previous landscaping projects usually were small. After choosing the Wadmalaw site, the club realized the lots there are much bigger than what they usually work on in Charleston.

Zoning at the Wadmalaw site requires that new single-family homes occupy a lot size of at least 1 acre, the women said. So the club faced a daunting task with a much larger project than usual, involving not only much more ground to work with but also a larger budget and more labor, they said.

"We had in the budget a tiny little yard, and we ended up with an acre," Greene said.

The club put in $1,500 for the Wadmalaw project, "And we spent it all," Greene noted.

Donors helped, including the Hyams Garden and Accent Store on Folly Road, which provided 26 plants valued at more than $500, and Sodbusters, which installed four pallets of St. Augustine grass.

All Seasons Mulch delivered 75 bales of pine straw to the site, and Lowe's on James Island and in West Ashley and Home Depot in West Ashley all provided discounted plants.

The actual planting took place in mid-April over a span of a little more than two days. But a lot more time than that went into planning, purchasing and transporting supplies and tools and organizing the volunteer labor force, the club members said.

"It was a gargantuan effort on everyone's part, and you came away feeling really good about doing something nice for someone else," said Barbara Heddinger, who handles public relations for the club.

For more about the garden club, see http://ocw.esiteasp.com/ gardenclubofcharleston/home.nxg. For more about Sea Island Habitat, see www.seaisland habitat.org/index.htm.

Reach Edward C. Fennell at efennell@postandcourier.com or 937-5560.

6.14.09 Folly Forecast

2009-06-14T19:29:00.001-07:00

Full image | Loop

Current Conditions - Folly Beach, SC

	75° Clear
Wind:	Calm
Dew Point:	73°F
Pressure:	29.95 in
Humidity:	94%
Visibility:	10.0 miles
Updated: 10:15 PM EDT on June 14, 2009 at Charleston, South Carolina(KJZI)

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	81° \| 74° Detail Almanac	81° \| 74° Detail Almanac	83° \| 76° Detail Almanac	85° \| 76° Detail Almanac
Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday

Partly Cloudy	Chance of T-storms	Chance of T-storms	Partly Cloudy	Partly Cloudy

6.14.09 City Gallery

2009-06-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

CONTEMPORARY CHARLESTON 2009: REVELATION OF PROCESS

The City Gallery at Waterfront Park Presents:

Graffiti: Past, Present, and Future
A Lecture with Ishmael

Upcoming Lectures:

Ben Timpson: June 20

Karin Olah:

June 27

Dorothy Netherland:

July 11

Jonathan Brilliant: July 18

Ishmael was born in Madrid, Spain to Cuban parents and raised in Florida. Influenced by his family of artists and the metro bus routes through South West Miami, he taught himself to paint with spray paint secretly after receiving a tongue lashing by his aunt for his interest in graffiti.

In the year 1999 he chose the name Ishmael for his art. His focus was to bring attention to a book called Ishmael by Daniel Quinn. Quinn questions the human condition and talks about spiritual adventure, tackling the status quo, and reinventing yourself.

Ishmael's new work unifies his rebellious history with a journey into fine art. The work combines graphic forms with feminine organic shapes and bold masculine hard lines using fire, spray enamel, latex and ink. He splits his time between Charleston and Asheville, North Carolina. Using a word of mouth, street approach to networking--stickers, live painting collaborations with musicians, shows--Ishmael enjoys an international reputation as a skilled, provocative artist.

Graffiti: Past, Present, and Future

A Lecture with Ishmael !

When: June 13, 2009
12:00 pm

Where: City Gallery

At Waterfront Park

34 Prioleau St. Charleston,

SC 29401

* Free and Open to the public!

City Gallery at Waterfront Park

34 Prioleau Street

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 958-6484

citygallery@ci.charleston.sc.us

Office of Cultural Affairs

180 Meeting Street, Suite 200

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 724-7305

culturalaffairs@ci.charleston.sc.us

6.01.09 June Event Calendar

2009-06-01T08:31:00.001-07:00

June 2009

Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival
06/05/2009 - 06/06/2009
The highly anticipated Sweetgrass Festival will celebrate the rich Gullah Geechee cultural heritage and provides the most extensive showcase of sweetgrass baskets in the Lowcountry area.

Spoleto Finale at Middleton Place
06/07/2009
Bring a blanket and picnic supper to enjoy under the live oaks on the Middleton Place Greensward.

14th Annual Sea Island Habitat for Humanity Golf Benefit
06/07/2009
Let’s play…let’s build! Build a house with a golf club? That’s right, we are going to tee-up to help reach our goal to fund at least one house.

Blues & BBQ Harbor Cruises
06/11/2009, 06/25/2009
Cruise Charleston harbor, enjoy a Home Team BBQ Buffet and hot Live BLUES from Shrimp City Slim.

The Rice Planters Amateur Golf Tournament
06/23/2009 - 06/27/2009
Welcome to the Annual Rice Planters Amateur Golf Tournament, an elite amateur event that brings together national and international amateur golfers.

Charleston Harbor Fest
06/26/2009 - 06/28/2009
Come visit Charleston's celebration of the sea which spans over both sides of the harbor with Tall Ships from all over the world, family boat building, art and marine exhibits, children's villages and zones, and much more!

From Slave to Sharecropper: Exhibit to Highlight African American Experiences in the Lowcountry after the Civil War
06/12/2008 - 08/31/2009
The Charleston Museum will present an original exhibition to commemorate the bicentennial of the abolition of the international slave trade in the United States and the British Empire...

Charleston Farmers Market
04/11/2009 - 12/19/2009
offer Charleston residents and visitors fresh locally grown produce and locally processed food products as well as distinctive hand wrought arts and crafts and will continue every Saturday until Dec. 19.

6.01.09 LIVE - Surf Web Cam

2009-06-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Enjoy live feeds from our webcam that is placed at "The Washout", a popular surf spot on the Folly Beach coastline.

6.01.09 Surfs Up!

2009-06-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

Folly Beach Surfing

Folly Beach is one the top spots for surfing on the east coast. Folly also hosts a number of surfing contests every year including the Wahine Contest in May. While the "Washout" is considered the best waves on Folly, there are several other spots popular among surfers. When is the best surfing on Folly? When a storm is coming or passing nearby.

The links below will help you find the top surfing spots, learn where to get surf lessions, find monthly Folly Beach tide charts, surf shops and surf photos. If you have surf photos you would like to share, please send them to me at Jeanne@follybeach.com.

Keep an eye on this spot....we have new surf cams coming soon!!!

Top Spots for Surfing on Folly
Tide Chart
Surfing Lessons on Folly
Surfing Links
Surf Shops on Folly Beach
Folly Beach Surf Cams
Local Surf Photos
SurfRider Foundation

6.01.09 Morris Island Lighthouse

2009-06-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

Morris Island Lighthouse

Morris Island lighthouse stands all alone about 300 yards off shore from the island of Folly Beach. It can be viewed from the northeast end of Folly Island and from the bridge coming on to Folly Beach.

The Morris Island lighthouse is now completely surrounded by water but was once sitting on a good sized island with numerous buildings around it. The lighthouse was completed in 1876 and was the second lighthouse to be built on the island.

In the 1700s there were three islands that stretched for four miles between Folly Island and Sullivan’s Island. They were named Middle Bay Island, Morrison Island, and Cummings Point. The first Charleston lighthouse was built on Middle Bay Island in 1767. The lighthouse was designed by Samuel Cardy and built by Adam Miller and Thomas Young. The tower was cylindrical and stood 102 feet tall. The lantern room had a revolving lamp that had a range of about 12 miles. In 1858 a Fresnel lens was installed.

In the early 1800s the channel leading to Charleston began to shift causing a change in the tidal currents. Sand began to build up between the islands and this resulted in the three islands merging into a single island. Since Morrison Island was the central of the three earlier islands, the now single island was called Morrison Island. Later the name was shortened to Morris Island.

The first Charleston lighthouse continued to provide service up to the Civil War. In 1861 the fleeing Confederate soldiers blew up the lighthouse so northern troops could not use it.

Following the civil war, in 1873, Congress appropriated money for the rebuilding of the Morris Island Lighthouse (then referred to as the Charleston Main Light). The lighthouse was completed in 1876 approximately 400 yards from the earlier tower. It stood 161 feet tall and was patterned after the Bodie Light of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. It even used the same paint scheme as a day mark – black and white horizontal stripes. There were a total of 15 buildings on the island besides the lighthouse tower. Included in these were the keeper’s quarters, various outbuildings, and a one-room schoolhouse (the school teacher came over from the mainland on Monday, taught the children during the week and returned to the mainland on Friday).

Toward the end of the 1800s the channel had again shifted, but this time the change threatened the Charleston Harbor. In order to keep the channel open several jetties had to be built. These were completed in 1889. Although the channel into Charleston was saved, the changing tidal currents resulting from the jetties caused severe erosion on Morris Island. The island began to shrink. By 1938 many of the buildings were destroyed and others moved. The light was automated in 1938 and the Fresnel lens was removed.

Since 1938 over 1600 feet of land surrounding the tower has been lost. Today it stands alone, completely surrounded by water. In 1962 the Sullivan’s Island lighthouse was built to replace the Morris Island Light, which was decommissioned. The U.S. Coast Guard had plans to demolish the tower but petitions from local residents saved the structure. The Coast Guard built an underground steel wall around the tower to protect it from further erosion damage. The lighthouse is now privately owned and efforts are underway to preserve the Morris Island Light.

The Morris Island Coalition - www.morrisisland.org - is working hard to protect Morris Island. The Morris Island Lighthouse Project - www.savethelight.org - is working to preserve and restore the lighthouse. Please visit their sites and learn much more about the rich history of Morris Island.

Directions: The Morris Island Lighthouse can best be seen from the northeast end of Folly Beach. Take East Ashley Street until it ends. There is a parking lot there and then it is about a 1/4 mile walk to the beach.

6.01.09 Folly History

2009-06-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Our Evolution

The History of Folly Beach – A Timeline

The word "Folly" is an Old English word meaning an area of dense foliage

1600’s Early settlers found an Indian tribe, the Bohickets, inhabiting the island

1696 Folly Island was deeded to William Rivers.

1744 Folly was passed down through a generation and sold to Henry Samsways whose deed referred to the Island as "Coffin Land" and a map from 1780 depicts Folly as such. However, a map dated 1800 shows Coffin Land as the western end of Folly Island where the State Park is now. The name Coffin Land came from the fact that it was customary for ships with plague or cholera victims to the leave the ill travelers on barrier islands before they entered the Charleston port. On their way back out to sea, they would pick up the survivors and bury the dead.

1832 The ship Amelia wrecked on Folly Island while sailing from New York to New Orleans. Twenty of 120 passengers died of cholera while marooned on Folly Island and Charleston cut off communications and supplies to the Island, fearing it would spread into Charleston and become an epidemic.

1838 Thomas Gillespie, a Scottish captain, died on Folly. His marker still stands at the southeastern end of the Island.

1860’s The first shots of the Civil War were fired by Citadel Cadets on Morris Island. Three months later Beauregard’s men fired on Ft. Sumter. The Union army took Folly Island and Morris Island on their way to Charleston

1920’s Rumors of bootlegging on the Island. The original Pavilion was built.

1930’s The new Atlantic Pavilion, Boardwalk, Pier and Oceanfront Hotel were built where the Holiday Inn now stands.

1932 Nine families lived on the Island year-round

1934 Gershwin stayed at 708 West Artic and wrote Porgy & Bess. He also judged a local beauty contest.

1937 Over 15,000 people were at the Pier for the 4^th of July celebration

1940’s Many homes were built, improvements made to roads & utilities

1955 Elmer "Trigger" Burke (the man who killed Joseph "Specs" O’Keefe of the $1.2 million Brinks robbery) rented a cottage on Folly and was arrested by the FBI on the corner of Erie & Center Street.

1956 The wooden Folly River bridge was replaced with a concrete bridge

1957 The Oceanfront Hotel and Pavilion and Joe’s Restaurant burned

1960’s Ocean Plaza was opened with 1700 feet of boardwalk, pier, amusement rides, shops, roller skating and concessions. This was the Golden Era of Folly Beach. The first surfboard on the Island was introduced by Pat Thomas.

1964 Palm reading was banned on Folly

1967 Horseback riding was banned on the Island

1977 The Pier burned again, suspected arson

1985 Holiday Inn was built

1989 Hurricane Hugo destroyed many homes and devastated the beaches

1995 The current Pier, restaurant and tackle shop was built

Resource: Time and Tide on Folly Beach South Carolina, Gretchen Stringer-Robinson (1998)

6.01.09 Tis the season . . . .

2009-06-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

Folly’s Turtles

Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) crawl onto the beach at Folly between May and September to lay eggs. Females nest between 2 and 5 times in one season and do not return for two to three years to repeat the nesting cycle. It is believed that they nest on the beach where they were hatched decades earlier. Therefore, the sustainability of nesting at Folly is dependent upon proper management of these nesting sites.

Because Folly Beach is prone to severe erosion and the dune system is unstable, the nesting sites are precarious and require daily monitoring. Mother turtles come ashore at night to lay approximately 100 eggs. The eggs incubate for 45 to 60 days. Hatchlings emerge, usually at night when sand temperatures cool and the chance of predation is lessened. Before their protein-packed burst of energy is depleated, they must swim to the shelter of Gulf Stream sargassam floats thirty miles away.

In recent years, loggerhead sea turtles nesting at Folly Beach have produced

3200 hatchlings from 38 nests (1998)
4084 hatchlings from 45 nests (1999)
3094 hatchlings from 41 nests (2000)

Even with the best of nest conservation efforts, it is estimated that only about 1 of 1000 hatchlings will live to adult reproductive age.

Frequently Asked Questions about Folly Turtles

Q: What kind of turtles?
A: Mostly loggerheads (Caretta caretta); “northern sub-species” that nests in Georgia, SC, NC; genetically distinct from “southern” (Florida) species; population #s much smaller than southern. In 2003, Folly had one leatherback nest that produced 67 leatherback hatchlings. It was only the 3d leatherback nest ever recorded in SC.

Q: When do they nest?
A: About mid-May (sometimes earlier) until about mid-August (sometimes later)

Q: How big are they?
A: About 3’ long and almost as wide; 250-300 pounds

Q: How do they make the nest?
A: They dig with their back flippers

Q: How long does it take?
A: About 30-45 minutes just to dig; another 30-45 minutes to emerge from ocean, find suitable nest site, and return to ocean.

Q: How deep are the eggs?
A: Bottom of the nest is typically about 18” — as deep as the turtle’s back flipper can reach — but topmost eggs can be only 8-10” from surface.

Q: How many eggs per nest?
A: Multi-year average for northern sub-species is 126.

Q: How long until hatching?
A: 45 - 65 days; Folly’s average last year = 56 days

Q: The mother doesn’t come back?!
A: That’s right.

Q: Why are you moving the eggs?
A: To protect them from water (tide inundation/ erosion)

Q: What can harm the eggs?
A: Too much heat, too much water, bacteria & nest diggers (roots, ants, sand crabs, racoons, dogs, people)

Q: What can harm the hatchlings?
A: Too much heat, too much water before leaving the nest, artificial lighting, ants, ghost crabs, dogs, birds, fish, people

Q: What can harm the adult turtles?
A: Sharks, boats/ships, fishing nets & lines, trash & pollutants, diseases, obstructions on beach, people

Q: Does the use of TEDs reduce turtle deaths?
A: YES!

Q: When can I see a turtle nesting or a nest hatching?
A: Very rarely. Both usually take place at night and according to turtle time. To feel safe, the nesting turtles need a NATURAL habitat (dark, quiet, motionless). To have the best chance, the hatchlings need NATURAL lighting & no obstructions between the nest and the ocean.

Q: How can I find out more?
A: For more information about turtle nesting on Folly, e-mail your questions to the crew. For more information about loggerheads and other sea turtles, visit Links.

There's No Place Like Home

5.23.10 - PICCOLO SPOLETO / Charleston Jewish Jazz Ensemble / JAZZIN' THE SPIRIT

5.23.10 - PICCOLO SPOLETO / Harbor Cruises contd.

5.23.10 PICCOLO SPOLETO / Harbor Cruise

5.23.10 JOhn STreet JAzz

5.23.10 - JAC - JAZZ SERIES / Upstairs McCrady's

5.23.10 - FUD LIVINGSTON

5.23.10 - Nothin' Could Be Finer: CJI's LEGENDS FESTIVAL GALA

5.23.10 Perserving SC's Jazz Legacy

5.21.10 Jazzed Fest: LEGENDS MASTER CLASS

5.23.10 - Jazzed Fest: THE CHARLESTON

2010 - SC's Jazz Legend

2010 - City of Folly Beach letter to visitors

2010 _ Summertime at Folly

5.23.2010 - 2010 Piccolo Spoleto

MUSIC

Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art / Book Drive

Kiawah:: 2nd Annual Gourmet & Grapes Weekend at The Sanctuary

April ART events

Lowcountry LOCAL Farmers Markets

3.4.10 St Patty's Day

3.4.10 Charleston Wine & Food Festival

10.20.09 Antique Shop

Transplant finds excitement in busy world of antiques sales

Anything but dull

Gmail - Vacation Traveler Services - Questionnaire - vacationtravelerservices@gmail.com

9.27.09 Folly Beach Fishing Pier

Dropping a line

9.25.09 5 day Folly Forecast

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

9.25.09 MOJA Arts Festival

9.18.09 5 day Folly forecast

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

9.18.09 Queen Quet

We Asked . . . Queen Quet

About the biggest threat to Gullah/Geechee culture and how others respond to her

Meet Queen Quet

9.18.09 Here comes Carnival . . . .

Charleston to be a Carnival home port

Cruise ship to embark weekly from passenger terminal for Bahamas, Key West trips

Hicks' column

Carnival Fantasy

Previous story

9.18.09 MOJA atrs festival calendar

9.15.09 Chas Co Parks

Charleston County Parks

9.15.09 Lighthouse Inlet

Astounding views, seclusion make Lighthouse Inlet appealing new park

9.15.09 Lowcountry theaters

Flair for film-going

Bringing special enthusiasm to theaters in the Lowcountry

Folly Forecast 9.15 - 9.19

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

8.17.09 Chas Info -- more than you'll ever read

8.14.09 Pesky biters

How to keep bugs from biting your summer

8.14.09 Folly Road Glass Artist

Artist etches a niche

Owner of local glass business sharpened her skills in N.M.

8.14.09 Local Clubs

Clubs

8.14.09 Night fun on JI / Folly

Nightlife

8.14.09 Habitat for Humanity has three Restores in the Lowcountry, one is located on Johns Island

Charleston ReStore hidden gem for bargains

8.14.09 Phillippe Cousteau promotes dolphin plates

Cousteau helps promote plates

8.14.09 Sweetness in MTP

Mount Pleasant entrepreneur sweet on candymaking business

8.14.09 Forecast

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

8.14.09 Charleston's best kept secret

Jewel on the harbor

James Island park, owned by Charleston, a place to fish, picnic, relax and take in sweeping views

7.27.09 Folly Forecast

5 Day Forecast for ZIP Code 29439

7.23.09 Get your groove on . . .

Nightlife

7.23.09 Rainy Day Fun

Library Programs