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CHARLESTON, SC
PERMIT NO 437
Volume 6 Issue 9 FREE September 3, 2010

Sullivan’s Island • Isle of Palms • Goat Island • Dewees Island

Ben Sawyer Old School retains title as

in need of a Half Rubber champions
little support See story on page 7.

BY BLAKE BUNCH

W
hether the Ben Sawyer
bridge is working
efficiently ultimately
determines one’s route off of
Sullivan’s Island, and even
though the bridge was recently
replaced with a brand new
span and operating system, the
bridge is still experiencing the
occasional maintenance issue.
Most of these issues directly
stem from the traffic/weight
support of the bridge, for which
supplemental support will
ultimately be necessary.
According to Julie Hussey,
communications liaison for the
Ben Sawyer Bridge project, “In
the course of rehabilitating the
bridge, SC DOT (South Carolina
Department of Transportation)
and FHWA (Federal Highway
Administration) engineers
determined it would be best
to upgrade the abutment
foundations and assure
the bridge’s new ability to
withstand the worst case loading
situations.”
To upgrade these foundations,

see Bridge on page 7

Inside Island Eye

Cub Scouts PAGE 9 Holy Yoga PAGE 10 Turtle returns PAGE 27

2 September 3, 2010
Sullivan’s Island Council - August 17, 2010
Comments from the public
Citizen Dennis Wazinki of
Mount Pleasant explained how
he visits Sullivan’s Island to
windsurf and paddleboard, but
understands the need for his
paying of the use of the area.
He suggested an annual fee
that is simple for the visitor. “I
know I don’t have a vote, but I
am here tonight to kick things
back and forth and to come up
with something that is workable
for both sides,” said Wazinki.
Mayor Smith thanked him
and Council member Madeline
McGee agreed to follow up.
Citizen Bobby Cummings of
1450 Thompson Ave. and
President of the Island Club
brought forth the lack of a
wheelchair ramp outside of the
Island Club, which has been
an issue for a few years. He
proposed a building solution
that also incorporated curb
appeal.
After clarifications on the
planning propositions, McGee
suggested that if the town
contributed the materials,
Civic
BY BLAKE BUNCH
could Cummings organize the
labor and he agreed.
Mayor Smith motioned to
approve the minutes for the
Regular Meeting of July 20,
2010, and Special Meetings on
July 27, 2010, and August 2,
2010. Motion approved.
Oath of Office
There was a resolution to
install Reserve Officer David
Burke as a member of the
Police Department. Officer
Burke was sworn in and
Council member Pat O’Neil
thanked him for his volunteer
service.
Reports and Communication
Mayor Smith recognized
David Royall Gregorie for his
accomplishment in becoming
an official Eagle Scout and to
recgonize his acheivement,
the mayor read a resolution
of commendation. “I had the
honor of being able to attend
and speak at David’s court
of honor," said the mayor.
"97% of scouts do not become
www.islandeyenews.com
eagles, but David Royall
Gregorie completed all the
requirements for Eagle Scout
and exemplifies all the qualities
of an Eagle Scout. Mayor Smith
noted that David received the
rank of Eagle Scout at the
Eagle Scout Court of Honor
on Sunday, August 8, 2010.
On reading the resolution
recognizing and commending
David Royall Gregorie for his
outstanding achievement, the
Council passed the resolution
unanimously.
General and New
Correspondence
Council member Andy
Benke read some notes of
appreciation; one from Mrs.
Ramsdale showing thanks for
the actions of two officers and
another thanking Town Hall
for its Census efforts on the
island. “It looks like we went,
as the state as a whole, from
49th place in 2000, to 23rd
this year," specifing that the
ranking was in number of
responses received.
Council member Pat O’Neil also
noted that the Town received
a detailed email from a Mrs.
Freeman of Mount Pleasant in
regards to public parking,
Committee Reports
“I have a request from the East
Cooper Community Outreach,
which will have a fundraising
bike ride that passes through
the town of Sullivan’s Island,"
said Town Administrator Andy
Benke. "It’s a staggered start
like the bridge run, but we’re
waiting on the insurance
information, and approval
from the DOT, to go through.”
The bike ride is scheduled to
occur early on the morning of
September 11. He continued
by noting this year's Labor Day
schedule, pointing out that,
“Town Hall will close Friday,
September 3, at 5 p.m. and will
reopen Tuesday, September
7, at 8 a.m. in observance
of the holiday. All central
departments will be staffed as
see SI Council on page 4
September 3, 2010
IOP Council - August 24, 2010
The appointment and
administration of oath
to new employees
Mayor Dick Cronin led the
following candidates through
their Oath of Office: Mr. Jeff
Anderson, who will serve as
Fire Inspector for the City of
Isle of Palms, Mrs. Marguerite
DeCicco as Secretary of the
Fire Department, Mr. William
McElheney as the Recreation
Supervisor, Mrs. Elizabeth
McCullen as Telecommunicator,
and Mr. Jeff Swain, Patrol
Officer. “We have an outstanding
work force in the city and now
we’re adding to it,” Cronin
smiled.
Mayor Cronin motioned to
approve the minutes for the
last Council meeting on July
27, 2010, and the Jjint meeting
of the City Council and the
Planning Commission of July
20, 2010. Both were approved
unanimously.
Isle of Palms
 Recycle - Wednesday, September 9- Recycle 
886-6428
www.iop.net
Monday, September 6
City Offices CLOSED for Holiday
Tuesday, September 7
Personnel Committee Meeting
5:45pm
1207 Palm Boulevard
Wednesday, September 8 & 15
Municipal Court
10am
1207 Palm Boulevard
Recreation Committee Meeting
4pm
24 28th Avenue
Planning Commission Meeting
4:30pm
1301 Palm Boulevard
Civic
BY BLAKE BUNCH
Citizens’ Comments
Mayor Cronin expressed his
gratitude for the recognition of
the City of Isle of Palms through
the reception of the “Proudly
We Hail” award given by the Isle
of Palms Exchange Club. The
City of Isle of Palms is the first
recipient of this award and it
was given in recognition of flying
the American Flag over City Hall
year round.
Resident Jim Raih of 3904
Cameron Blvd. took the
opportunity to speak during
citizens’ comments, stating that
he has been in the real estate
development industry for nearly
25 years and feels that there is a
serious communication problem
on the island in regards to the
new radio tower that needs to
be addressed. “It’s gone on far
too long,” said Raih. “We’ve
spent countless hours trying
to resolve issues.” One of the
key problems, he said, was to
keep the commercial income-
generating component away from
the public needs communication
from a safety perspective. “It’s
time for the city to take the lead
in solving our problems for the
community.” He offered his help
to the city to help resolve the
communication “challenges” on
the island.
Wellness Fair
Mayor Cronin reminded
Council and residents that the
Isle of Palms will be holding
their annual Wellness Fair on
Thursday, September 16, from 7
a.m. to Noon.
Civic Calendar
Thursday, September 7
Real Property Committee
Meeting
8:30am
1207 Palm Boulevard
Livability Court
5:00pm
1207 Palm Boulevard
Public Safety Committee
5:30pm
30 J.C. Long Boulevard
Tuesday, September 14
Board of Zoning Appeals
5:30pm
1301 Palm Boulevard
Sullivan's Island
883-3198
www.sullivansisland-sc.com
Tuesday, September 7 & 14
Municipal Court
10am
3
Lucky Dog Publishing
o f SC , LL C
Publisher of the Island Eye News, The
Island Connection and The Folly Current.
Lynn Pierotti
publisher
Ways and Means Committee lynn@luckydognews.com
Mayor Cronin ran through
the July report from the City Kristin Hackler
Treasurer, noting that the report managing editor
kristin@luckydognews.com
shows that on a monthly basis
we should be at 8.3% on the Swan Richards
expenses, and our expenditures senior graphic designer
are 7%. All things are trending swan@luckydognews.com
well from an expenditure
standpoint, but we’re in a Ellie Smith
weak period for income. “Our graphic designer
fiscal year in 2010 is about the
same as we were in 2008,” said Lori Dalton
Cronin. “We had a downward sales manager
blip as most of the country had 614-0901
lori@luckydognews.com
in 2009, but now we’re back on
track.” Cronin also noted that Mary Ellen Bennett
tourism income is back and sales
looks a lot more stable. maryellen@luckydognews.com
In terms of special projects such
as beach restoration and City Blake Bunch
Hall renovation, there has not reporter
been much activity, but as for
the 52nd - 57th Ave. drainage Meredith Powell
project, Cronin noted that he reporter
attended a meeting the night
Gabrielle Christensen
before and appealed to County intern
Transportation meeting and by •
the end of the meeting, they had Contributors
$100,000 to move forward with Anne Anderson
the project. “As I told them, we’re SC Aquarium
moving forward with the project, Dr, Lucas Cole
we just don’t know how much CCPRC
we can complete,” Cronin said. Dr. Bill Cromer
“We’ll get as much done as we Sarah Diaz
can with what we have. We’ll IOP Rec. Dept.
Dimi Matouchev
have to do that again next time.”
Steve Suggs
Mayor Cronin also motioned Carlin Timmons
to approve the award of a sole
source contract to T2 Systems Published by
in the amount of $18,180.40 for Lucky Dog Publishing
four (4) Cisco IT-3100 handhelds of South Carolina, LLC
and printers for the Police P.O. Box 837
Department traffic ticketing Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
843-886-NEWS
see IOP Council on page 5
Submit your letters to the editor to:
info@luckydognews.com
Future deadlines:
September 8 for all submissions
1610 Middle Street The Island Eye News, a wholly owned subsid-
iary of Lucky Dog Publishing of SC LLC, is a
Wednesday, September 8 free, independent newspaper published every
two weeks and is for and about the Isle of
Planning Commission
Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Goat Island and De-
6:30pm
wees Island. Copies are mailed free of charge
1610 Middle Street
to every active mailbox in our coverage area
and are also available at area businesses and
Monday, September 13 by subscription to non-islanders. Subscriptions
Special Council Meeting are $39/year for non-residents.. Contributions
6pm of information, pictures and articles are wel-
1610 Middle Street comed and are used according to space limita-
tions and news value and cannot be returned
Commitees of Council except by special request. Op-ed articles and
6:15pm letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect
1610 Middle Street the opinion of Lucky Dog News, or its writers.
Wednesday, September 15 All advertising rates are listed at:
DRB Meeting www.islandeyenews.com
6pm under “advertising”.
1610 Middle Street
Thursday, September 16
BZA Meeting
7pm
1610 Middle Street
4 September 3, 2010
SI Council from page 2
always, and Chief Howard has
talked to the Sherriff’s office for
more help. On the 13, we have
a special meeting of Council to
go over applications for various
boards and commissions.” He
also said that the town had
received their last letter from
the Island Turtle Team, who
reported 25 nests between Isle
of Palms and Sullivan's Island
with only about four of those
on Sullivan’s Island. There
was further discussion about
the changing hours of the Post
Office to which the committee
agreed with Mayor Smith
that it is a large part of the
community.
McGee suggested that the Post
Office sell their back parking
lot to the Town to use for new
parking and O’Neil agreed,
asking Benke to look further
into this matter.
Ways and Means Committee
Council member Mike Perkis
reported that it was agreed that
the town could be stewards
for the Thomson Memorial
Fund. In other news, Perkis
noted that the town's water
bill was higher in July by about
$20,000. Also of note was that
business licenses and building
permits were up for the past
month, and that police officers
are still on the lookout for the
stolen beach sign, which will
cost approximately $5000 to
replace.
Council member Buddy Howle
asked how the town was doing
in terms of setting up their
new insurance program, and
Council member McGee replied
that it would transfer on
October 1. Mayor Smith added
that they had no issues with
deductibles.
Perkis continued his report,
stating that, “We decided
to invest in a 6 month CD,
because, to go any higher it
was 1.4% a year. Interest rates
can’t go much lower. It looks
like things are picking up.”
Building and Construction
Committee
“Our revenue is up from
licensing and permit fees," said
Council member Buddy Howle,
"and the note in the report says
that the reason for this is that
people are typically spending
more than they projected."
Real Estate Committee
The Real Estate Committee
reported that they had meetings
about Phase 1 of paid parking,
and hope to bring in at least
50 new spaces at a much lower
cost than originally anticipated.
They also reported that they
have been trying to get quotes
from engineering firms for the
project.
Police Committee
Police Chief Danny Howard
stated that their department
has been working with
the Mount Pleasant Police
Department and the new
Sullivan's Island Elementary
School to help make the
transition to the old Whitesides
Elementary building as smooth
www.islandeyenews.com
as possible."We just want to
make sure we don’t have tons
of traffic stuck on the island,"
said Howard. "We plan to 'up'
the personnel for Labor Day,
and we have a request into
the County to get personnel
out here.” He continued by
discussing the service provided
by the Police Department to a
woman’s paralyzed dog, whom
they helped to take off the
beach and bring back home.
Streets and Maintenance
Council member McGee
reminded everyone that the
next Streets and Maintenance
Committee meeting will be
held on September 9 at 6:30
p.m. She reported that there
were about 60 people present
at the public hearing for the
paid parking issue and that the
question and answer segment
was very effective. McGee
encouraged other citizens
Island Information
Sullivan’s Island
Town Hall
843-883-3198
1610 Middle St.
Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon-Fri
www.sullivansisland-sc.com
Police: 883-3931
(non-emergency: 883-9636)
Fire: 883-9944
Dog Laws
May 1 – September 30:
5 a.m. – 10 a.m. off leash
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. no dogs
6 p.m. – 5 a.m. on leash
October 1 – April 30:
5 a.m. – noon, off leash;
noon – 5 p.m. on leash
Beach Laws
Permits needed for bonfires,
parties and boats on beach.
No alcohol, fireworks, glass
containers, golf carts or
vehicles allowed on beach.
Litter fines up to $500.
to offer their input and also
discussed decreasing speed
limits on either side of the
Louis Stith bridge, but it was
determined that those decisions
would ultimately have to be
made with DOT and the Town
of Mount Pleasant.
Ordinances:
1. Ratification, Ordinance
No. 2010-08, An Ordinance
to Amend Section 14-8 of the
Ordinances for the Town of
Sullivan’s Island, regarding
disorderly conduct. Ordinance
Carries.
2. Second Reading, Ordinance
No. 2010-08, An Ordinance to
Amend the Sullivan’s Island
Code of Ordinances by adding
Chapter 27 - Franchise Fees -
granting Consent to Application
for Franchise Fee for Cable
Service and Setting Franchise
Fee. Ordinance carries.
Isle of Palms
Town Hall
843-886-6428
1207 Palm Boulevard
Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon-Fri
www.iop.net
Police: 886-6522
Fire: 886-4410
Livability Officer: 886-8282
Dog Laws
April 1 – September 14:
5 a.m. – 8 a.m.
September 15 – March 31:
4 p.m. – 10 a.m.
Dog owners must have leash
in hand, have their dog under
voice command and must
clean up excrement.  At all
other times, dogs must be
on leash and under complete
control, even in the water.
Beach laws
No professional photography,
fireworks, vehicles, bonfires,
glass, or alcohol.
September 3, 2010
IOP Council from page 3
(included in FY 11 Sate ATAX
budget). Motion carried
The next Ways and Means
Committee meeting is Sept. 21 at
5:45 p.m.
Public Safety Committee
Chairman Martin Bettelli
reported that the Public Safety
Committee met on Tuesday,
August 10, and heard an update
on the radio tower. The chief
has been meeting with other
fire, police, and county officials
to discuss a 180 ft. tower over
the proposed 230 ft. tower.
“Part of the problem we’re
having is interference off of the
ocean,” said Bettellli, noting
that the County is waiting on
an independent report from a
company, Kimball, which is
reviewing the Motorola design.
In other news, the public safety
building is having some trouble
with HVAC. “We considered a
Signal 30 Award, and we are
awaiting input from the staff on
this and will probably bring it up
next month,” said Bettelli.
Highlights from the departmental
reports include the Fire
Department report, with 183
jellyfish stings and 12 stings
from sting rays last month. The
new Fire Inspector performed 66
inspections during the month,
and Bettelli congratulated the
chief on 25 years of service to
the island. The Fire Department
also will be having an ISO study,
and this could result in a change
to the City’s fire insurance rates.
During the month of July, 5034
calls were dispatched, and 1548
parking tickets were issued.
There were 30 instances of noise
violations and five citations
written, and of 14 fireworks
violations, two citations were
written. There will also be a
bicycle ride (ECCO Ride) on
September 11 early in the
morning and since there’s no
City involvement, the police will
not be involved.
The next meeting of Public Safety
is Thursday, September 9, at
5:30 p.m.
Public Works Committee
Councilman Brian Duffy
reported that garbage is still
being picked up, and "we’re at
our lowest level in five years,”
said Duffy. “Not sure why it’s
down, but who knows.” Duffy
stated that there was a review
of the drainage project and
thanked the Mayor for allocating
the $100,000. The department
hopes to get a good bid and
expects approvals to come in by
mid-October and bid packages
will go out shortly thereafter.
Duffy also stated that they are
trying a new project for Public
Works by using one of the City’s
ATVs, allowing them to move
crews around more quickly to
help with cleaning up various
right of way issues.
www.islandeyenews.com
Recreation Committee
Councilmember Ryan
Buckhannon reported for the
Recreation Committee, stating
that the island theater group,
Crabpot Players, will be holding
auditions for the December
performance, “Miracle on
34th Street” at 6:30 p.m. on
Wednesday, October 18, at the
Rec. Center. He also noted that
the Rec. Center’s School’s Out
activities were very successful,
and this year’s theatre camp
also went very well. The annual
Half-Rubber Tournament, held
on Saturday, August 21, boasted
28 participating teams. The
IOP beach run, held on July
18, had 233 runners involved.
There were over 400 campers
participating in the Wee Camp
and Summershine programs
this year, and the Lacrosse
camp attracted 74 youths. “It
was great to see the number of
camps and new programs that
we have were very successful
this year, so kudos to the Rec.
Department staff for that,” said
Buckhannon. The first middle
school dance of the year will be
held on Friday, September 10, at
7 p.m. with an 80s Extravaganza
theme. The Halloween Carnival
is set up for October 30. The
next meeting is scheduled for
September 8 at 4 p.m.
Personnel Committee
Councilmember Ralph Piening
announced the June Safety
Sweepstakes winners. Emily
5
Dziuban won for General
Government, Joseph Washington
won for Public Works, Jason
Smith won for the Fire
Department and Dianne Tarr
won for the Police Department.
The next Personnel Committee
meeting will be held on
September 7 at 5:45 p.m.
Mack truck lease approval
The Second Reading of
Ordinance 2010-011, an
ordinance authorizing the
leasing of one Mack garbage
truck GU713, passed second
reading with Councilmember
Buckhannon voting against,
stating that, “We should try
to get away from these lease/
purchase program and just
purchase what we need.”
First reading of ordinance
to allow photography on the
beach
First Reading, by title only
of Ordinance 2010-12, An
Ordinance Amending Title
7, Licensing and Regulation,
Chapter 3, Beach and Marine
Recreation Regulations, Article
A, General Provisions, Section
7-3-20, Commercial Activities
Restricted, of the City of Isle of
Palms Code of Ordinances to
Allow Commercial Photographers
to take Photographs on the
Beach under Certain Conditions.
“For those who aren’t aware, this
see IOP Council on page 6
6 September 3, 2010
Letters to the editor...
 Dear Editor,
 
Although I now live in Mt.
Pleasant, my family ties to
Sullivan’s Island date back over
100 years with several relatives
buried in the Myrtle Ave.
Cemetery. I felt I must respond
to Mr. Waring’s comments made
at the town meeting held on July
20 and printed in the Island Eye
News of August 6.
 The ground dove is a delightful
little bird which makes its home
along the coastal regions. Their
nesting season can be between
February and October, however,
along our coast it is mainly
between August and October.
These birds are not territorial
and will nest in any overgrown
or tall grassy area. Billy Dukes,
wildlife biologist and small bird
expert with the SC Department
of Natural Resources, states
these birds are not endangered
nor threatened here in South
Carolina. Mowing the grass at
roadside keeps the birds away
from roadways and therefore
prevents their demise. There
is no conceivable reason not
to maintain the Myrtle Ave.
Cemetery. By doing so the birds,
will make their nests in a safer
area. The maintenance of the IOP Council from page 5
asked about the line “under
certain conditions” in the
cemetery, as such, and not is an amendment which will add motion and Cronin pointed out
allowing development of this the following paragraph to City that this wasn’t a part of the
property as has slowly occurred Code. ‘… Nothing in this section change and was part of the
over time actually protects shall be deemed to prohibit a existing code. Filming will still
wildlife habitat. commercial photographer who need to be approved through
In the past, the cemetery was is not soliciting on the beach, Council. There being no further
beach accesses, beach parking concerns, the first reading
used as an area for parking,
lot or Breach Inlet Bridge, from passed unanimously.
skateboarding, trash dumping
implementing a prior contract
and, as evidenced by many to take still photographs on The next Isle of Palms Council
liquor bottles in the back of the beach for a fee. The use of meeting will be held on Tuesday,
the cemetery, a straw bed for the beach to take photographs September 28, at 7 p.m. in
vagrants. Surely by fencing the on the beach for a fee shall be Council chambers, located at
area to prevent parking on the limited to no more than one 1207 Palm Boulevard. For more
graves and as a way of preventing hour per day for a fee,” read info, call 886-6428 or visit www.
dumping, cemetery maintenance Mayor Cronin. iop.net.
is in the best interest of the Council member Bergwerf
town and residents alike. Mr.
Dukes suggested beginning a
regular maintenance program of
mowing and weeding in March
which will encourage these
birds to nest in a safer area and
will not negatively affect their
numbers and may well improve
their breeding process. I find it
fascinating that the question of
wildlife preservation becomes
an issue only after destruction
of the cemetery was halted and
historic preservation has begun.
 
Sincerely,
Doris Legare Dayhoff
Mt. Pleasant, S. C.
www.islandeyenews.sc
September 3, 2010 7
working platform to work on the project. Half Rubber from cover
Bridge from cover
Once all the heavy equipment is moved in
crews plan to drive in support pilings Old School, winners of the 2009 Half
they can bring in the paver and complete
adjacent to the existing pilings on both Rubber Championships at Isle of Palms
the enhancement.”
Recreation Center, retained their title this
sides of the bridge where it abuts with the Work to make the support pile upgrades is year in a closely fought battle at the Isle of
causeway. Hussey also noted that the finish expected to begin by the end of the summer. Palms Recreation Department on Saturday,
surface of the asphalt pavement on the
For further information, contact Julie August 21, in a game that didn’t finish until
bridge will be completed after the abutments
Hussey at jchussey@civiccommunications. 1 a.m. Hot, sweaty and smiling, team Old
are sufficiently reinforced.
com, or Kim Partenheimer with the SCDOT School was defeated by runners-up Below
In terms of the time it will take to complete Average, but following the rules of double
Ben Sawyer Bridge Project Field Office at
this enforcement process, Kim Partenheimer, elimination, Old School was able to pull ahead
972-1770 or by email at partenheimer@
on-site RCEI Project Manager for the bridge in the second round against Below Average
pbworld.com.
rehabilitation noted that, while the project and brought home the gold. Congratulations
is ready to go, to team Old School members David Smith,
it is still going Eddie Cornwell, Lee Martin and Jimmy
through some Mazyck on their hard-fought victory, as well
last minute as second place runners-up Below Average,
approvals. captained by Lance Cochran, and third place
“Once SC runners-up Bohannon & Co. team members
DOT and the Brett Bohannon, Brian Redmond and Morris
contractor agree, Redmond.
I don’t think The Isle of Palms Recreation Department
that it will take would also like to thank this year’s sponsors:
too long for the www.halfrubber.com, Atlanta Bread
contractor to Company, Banana Cabana, Charleston
start work,” said Crab House, Charleston Limo, East Cooper
Partenheimer. Sporting Goods, Hucks Lowcountry Table,
“The contractor Isle Of Palms Marina, My Favorite Things,
built out each Wild Dunes Resort, Windjammer, South
quadrant of the End Brewery, Home Team BBQ, Chic-Fil-A,
bridge, so he Vintage Chariots, Neil Jordans, Iacafano’s,
has installed Jack’s Cosmic Dogs, Bambu, Noisy Oyster,
temporary Capriccio and Vitamin Water.
lagging walls at For more info on the 2010 Isle of Palms Half
all four locations, Rubber Tournament, visit www.iop.net.
and he has a Ben Sawyer bridge.

www.islandeyenews.com
8 September 3, 2010
Book Review
Feeling Free as a Fish
BY KRISTIN HACKLER

E
llison Smith IV, a (based on the real
Sullivan’s Island resident
who describes himself as
“a lawyer by profession and a
fisherman by trade,” is a true-
blooded Charlestonian who grew
up with one foot in the marsh and
the other on a boat. A graduate of
the University of South Carolina
with a major in English, Ellison
went into law mainly so that he
would be able to do two of his life’s
passions: fishing and writing.
“I have a room upstairs where
time flies, and I write,” Ellison
smiled. Although he was a prolific
writer in his younger days,
Ellison’s job slowly began to
take him away from writing as a
hobby and it wasn’t until he was
thinking about a present for his
granddaughter that he realized
he hadn’t really written anything
outside of a few short stories in
almost 40 years.
“I promised myself that I would
publish a novel before I turned
sixty,” said Ellison, and he was
true to his word. His first work, a
children’s book entitled The Day
the Pelican Spoke, was written for
his granddaughter and illustrated
by an artist from Arizona. Four
years later, his first novel went to
print though a division of Book
Surge called Create Space, and
it is an eloquent rarity of coastal
storytelling.
His book Free as a Fish follows
life of the sea. whispered in her languid, salty
Alex’s Marina at “I actually breath. The reader can feel the
Murrell’s Inlet) to found the first throbbing heat of the August
becoming a mate paragraph of the sun on their back and the dark,
for the charter book in a stack brackish waters swirling through
boat Renegade, of old papers,” their toes. With Jessie, they
Jessie learns said Ellison. “I watch the sun dissolve into strips
every aspect of had written it of deep orange and heavy red as
the charter boat when I was twenty it slips behind the marshgrass,
business, from or twenty-one.” and wake up to the dull gray of
rigging bait to The discovery a new day already damp with
deboning mullet, of that literary humidity, yet soothed by a cool
wrestling twenty- memorabilia northeastern breeze.
pound king led Ellison to Free as a Fish is a must-read
mackerel into remember other for anyone who has spent time
fish boxes and vignettes of life along the Lowcountry coast. For
cutting tangled along the coast those who are just getting to
fishing lines from propellers in which he had written throughout know her wayward charms, this
high seas. He also learns about the years. With these scraps of book teaches them that there is
the rhythm of life along the script firmly in his mind, Ellison a rhythm to coastal life and a
coast: the random patterns of took off for Murrell’s Inlet on his reason for living separate from
creek beds, the fickle patterns fifty-ninth birthday and spent the bustle of modern-day cities.
of fish, the art of castnetting for two days remembering childhood For those who have grown up in
shrimp and swinging a flat iron to summers spent on its vagrant her rivers, marshes and ocean,
collect oysters, and the deep long dirt roads and winding, sun-lit this book is a celebration of the
breaths of the tide as it changes creeks. It was there that he wrote beauty and power of living in
from season to season and moon the end of the book. the Lowcountry, and a nostalgic
to moon. “I had a beginning, parts of glimpse into a time when all a
While much of the story is the middle and the end,” smiled person really needed in life was
drawn from Ellison’s own life, Ellison, and it took less than six a castnet, a boat motor and an
other sections, he said, were months for him to finish weaving open mind.
stories he’s collected over the it all together. The end result is Free as a Fish is available at
years from a variety of individuals, a love story written in the pluff- www.amazon.com and will soon
most of whom are blood-kin to mud blood of the marsh, woven be available in local stores.
the Lowcountry coast and live the together with her rushes and
Jessie’s Wahoo Steak with Local Tomato and Onion
excerpt from Free as a Fish, page 262-3

the life of young Jessie McLeod,
who has just left the house
he grew up in after a series of
tragedies and scandals have
torn his family apart. The year is
1963, and with only a duffel bag
of clothes, an old Evinrude boat
motor and the vague knowledge
of a burgeoning love for fishing
and the open sea, Jessie finds
himself driving to a place of fond
childhood memories; Murrell’s
Inlet, South Carolina.
It’s here that Jessie finds himself
and embraces his true passion
for the open water. Moving from
deck hand at Archie’s Marina
I
t was still light out and the sea breeze was
cooling things down. He laid a charcoal fire in
the old grill in the front yard, lit it, and went
inside. He took out one of the wahoo steaks and
cut it in half and quickly marinated it in a mixture
of Italian dressing, lemon juice and ground pepper.
As the coals got ready he took a quick shower,
shaved and changed into blue jeans and a clean
t-shirt. He put some new potatoes on to boil and
took the fish steak and a cold can of beer outside.
He put the grill over the white hot coals and when
it was good and hot, plopped the fish on top and
seared it on both sides. He took a stick and pushed
the coals to one side, put the fish opposite them
and went back into the kitchen for a piece of tin
foil. On a whim he cut a couple of slices of tomato
and a big slice of onion and took them outside
with a fresh beer. He flipped the fish over again
and put the slice of onion on it and topped that
with the tomatoes and made a tin foil tent to cover
it all. Then he sat on the front steps and drank his
beer and smoked a cigarette as he watched the
first starts begin to appear in the southeast. When
he lifted the tin foil, the onion and tomatoes had
melded into each other and he could flake the fish
with his finger. He went inside and got a plate, put
some new potatoes drizzled in butter on it, opened
another can of beer, picked up a fork and a paper
napkin and put the fish on his plate and ate at the
picnic table overlooking the marsh in the light of
the rising moon. It was, Jessie decided as he ate
the last forkful, a hell of a good meal.

www.islandeyenews.sc
September 3, 2010 9

Cub Scouts look back on a great summer

and forward to a great year
BY STEVE SUGGS

T
he Pack 59 Cub Scouts packed
in the summer fun with monthly
outings including a trip to Bee City
in Cottageville, an interactive surf seining
experience on Sullivan’s Island and a fun
free swim on Sullivan’s Island, as well as the
Cub Scouts day camp offered by the Coastal
Carolina Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
At Bee City, scouts learned the environmental

PHOTOS BY STEVE SUGGS

importance of honeybees and actively helped
in the processing of hive products by making
beeswax candles and bottling honey. The
boys also got to visit the adjacent petting zoo
which included monkeys, lemurs, wallabies,
alpacas and llamas, and the nature center
which featured snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs
and alligators.
The Surf Seining and Science program
was an interactive hands-on event led by
Jim Koenig of King Fish Environmental. The
Cub Scouts helped Jim pull a 35-foot seine
net in the ocean surf zone and in the process,
captured a variety of sea creatures. The boys
then learned to identify the wide variety of
marine life caught in the net including many
varieties of fish, crabs, sting rays and jelly
fish before releasing the creatures back to the
ocean. This interactive outdoor experience
captured the imagination of the boys and
intrigued the parents, all while educating
Pack 59 Cub Scouts sift through the Marine Life captured
without the aid of textbooks or homework.
in the seine net during the Pack 59 outing with Jim Koenig
and King Fish Environmental.
Pack 59 Cub Scouts visit Bee City, USA in Cottageville,
accompanied by the Etiwan District mascot, “Cubby”.
Thunderstorms put a damper on the
swimming outing, but a number of scouts
dedicated to fun banded together for a short
swim before the rains began to fall.
Pack 59 is chartered by Stella Maris Catholic
Church and serves Sullivan’s Island, Isle of
Palms and parts of Mount Pleasant. The Pack
is part of the Etiwan District of the Coastal
Carolina Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
For more information about Pack 59, email Pack
Committee Chair Ken Huggins at cubscout59@
gmail.com For more information about Cub
Scouts and the Boy Scouts of America, contact
District Executive William Etheridge at 763-
0305, or visit www.coastalcarolinabsa.org.

www.islandeyenews.sc
10
I
t’s just before 9:30 on a Wednesday
morning, and several cars are parked in
front of Sunrise Presbyterian Church on
Sullivan’s Island. A couple of kids mill around
as their moms grab a bottle of water and a
colorful rolled-up mat out of the trunk and
head into church. No church clothes today;
instead they’re wearing comfortable exercise
pants and t-shirts, and each of them wave
excitedly as they see a sprightly young blonde
standing at the door, ushering them in to the
community hall.
Since June, Ellen Shaw Wilson has been
hosting an hour-long yoga class once a week
in the spacious community room of Sunrise
Presbyterian, and for many it’s one of the most
deeply spiritual experiences they have had all
week, because instead of listening to Eastern
chants or instrumental meditation music,
they listen to contemporary Christian praise
music, and instead of humming Sanskrit
mantras, they listen as Ellen reads chapters
of strength, encouragement and insight from
her well-worn Bible.
“I used to go to a lot of traditional yoga,”
said Ellen, “but there was a lot of emphasis
on Eastern teaching and thought patterns. I
had a good physical workout, but it brought
me out of my zone of peace.”
Wouldn’t it be cool, she thought, if she
could have the same workout experience, but
have it more in line with her beliefs and the
traditions in which she was brought up?
That thought led her to research other
forms of yoga online and within minutes,
she was reading about a program started ten
years ago by expert yoga practitioner Brooke
Boon called Holy Yoga.
“I thought I was the first one to think of
it!” laughed Ellen. The program intrigued
her and she was surprised to find that there
were already more than 200 certified Holy
Yoga leaders around the country, with one
already working in the Charleston area.
Further research led her to find that Holy
Yoga offered a fully-accredited school of yoga
and to become a teacher, she would have to
complete 200 hours of training with the final
training sessions held in Arizona.
“I contacted them and prayed about it, and
I felt it was what I was supposed to do,” said
Ellen. Already working as a therapist at MUSC
September 3, 2010
Holy Yoga
BY KRISTIN HACKLER
and with a husband and two-year-old child students from floor poses to standing poses
at home, however, Ellen wasn’t sure how she such as Warrior One, they take a moment to
would be able to not only get accredited, but read a line or two of inspirational scripture.
also find a place to practice and students to In Ellen’s case, she began her class with a
fill the class. reading from Philippians 4:4 -10.
“Our first lesson in Holy Yoga was the Holy Yoga is open to all and you do not have
story of Moses,” Ellen smiled. “Moses was to be a member of the church to attend. The
afraid that he couldn’t speak well in public, class is a $5 donation, and childcare for ages
so God said, ‘Leave the details to me.’” And 0 – 6 is an additional $5 donation. Classes are
before Ellen’s plane even touched ground on currently held at Sunrise Presbyterian, located
her return from training in Arizona, a location at 3222 Middle Street, on Wednesdays at 9:30
had already been approved for her class and a.m. Classes usually run between one hour
students were already waiting for her to lead and one hour and fifteen minutes. For more
them through their first class at Sunrise information, visit www.HolyYoga.net.
Presbyterian.
The unexpected help had come from the
only other Holy Yoga instructor in Charleston,
Rachel Glowacki. While Rachel teaches classes
in Charleston, several of her students had
requested that classes be held a little closer
to their homes on the islands. Rachel knew
that another student was soon returning to
the Charleston area as a Holy Yoga instructor
and with the help of Reverend Vance Polley of
Sunrise Presbyterian, a location for class was
established and the students were ready with
open arms.
Today, Ellen is hoping to expand the class
to twice-a-week and possibly even include
an evening class. Her regular Wednesday Holy Yoga leader Ellen Wilson reads from Philippians.
sessions host anywhere between 10 and
20 students and is designed to stretch and
strengthen almost
every level of yogi.
More complicated
moves are given
simpler modifications,
and time is taken to
regroup and meditate
on scripture.
A typical Holy
Yoga class begins
with meditation in a
completely relaxed
“corpse pose”, or
Savasana. Calm
spiritual music plays
while the instructor
leads the students into
a place of calm and
focused meditation. As
the teacher leads the
CHANGE
September 3, 2010
INJURY ICING TIPS JUST IN TIME FOR FOOTBALL SEASON
O
ne of the most
misunderstood modalities
commonly used for injuries
is ice. It’s important to use ice
correctly because if you don’t, it
will only cause more pain.
Ice is used when you first
injure something and it is painful.
Typically you think of a sprained
ankle, twisted knee or a blown
shoulder. I think about a bad
back or a cricked neck.
To understand how and why
to use ice, you must understand
how and why the body reacts
to new injuries. Inflammation
– otherwise known as swelling,
edema and puffiness - is the
body’s primary response to
almost any injury. Ice is not
used on an infected wound. Even
though this sort of injury will also
cause swelling, do not put ice on
an infected cut/lesion.
Inflammation is 90 percent
of an injury’s pain. When pain
is more intense, there’s usually
more inflammation. Why? When
there is an injury, muscles,
tendons and/or ligaments are
damaged and cells die. When a
cell dies, it pops like a bubble and
now all of the things that were
Ice, ice, baby
BY DR. BILL CROMER
inside the cell are outside and
many of those things are toxic.
When one cell dies, not a lot of
toxins are released, but when 10
million cells die, a lot of toxins
are released. In turn, these toxins
irritate the pain receptors on
specialized nerves that transmit
pain signals to the brain.
All of the tools necessary to help
heal an injury are in the blood.
Innately, the body’s response to
the injury is to get more blood to
the injured area, and the blood
vessels near the damaged area
expand to accommodate the
increase of fluid. This expansion
can lead to tissues stretching and
stretching tissue adds to the pain.
Meanwhile, the released toxins
are damaging or killing other
cells, increasing the blood flow to
the injured area and increasing
the number of dead and damaged
cells. This also increases the pain.
So what do you do? Slap some
ice on it! Why? Because that’s
what coach or mom did, but the
key is the length of time for which
you ice. Instead of leaving the
ice pack on until the area goes
numb, vary your icing time to
twenty minutes intervals. After
www.islandeyenews.com
11
more than twenty minutes of is, “Use ice 20 minutes once an
being cold, the body goes into hour.” Every hour on the hour?
“frostbite prevention reflex” and That’s up to you. The more you
will try to warm the cold area ice correctly, the sooner you will
up by sending MORE blood to it. feel better.
Now if you iced until you went Dr. Bill Cromer is a chiropractor
numb, you have more stretch, based out of Mount Pleasant. He
more toxins and more pain in the offers both in-office and at-home
injured area once it comes back adjustment sessions. For more
to room temperature. information, call 971-1000 or his
To properly ice an acute injury, cell at 437-1619.
only allow the ice to stay in
place for a maximum of twenty
minutes. Set a timer! Ice makes
the inflamed tissue tighten up,
squeezing the stretched tissue
back down and dissipating the
toxins from the area, thereby
reducing the pain. When you take
the ice off, let the skin return to
normal temperature on its own.
This takes 30 to 40 minutes.
After it’s warmed back up, you
can reapply the ice.
Another good point to
remember when icing an injury
is to ice it for seven days. The
inflammatory process in the body
takes seven days, so use ice for
all of them. After the second or
third day you might not hurt, but
the inflammation is still there.
The easy way to remember it
Double-crested Cormorant
BY SARAH DARGAN DIAZ

T
he Double-crested Cormorant is a large aquatic bird found
in coastal areas, inlets, rivers, and lakes, though this species
summers as far north as Alaska and central Canada and its
wintering range extends into southern Mexico. This species can be
found in the Lowcountry year-round, but numbers swell during the
winter as more migrating populations arrive. Cormorants are diving
birds which feed mostly on fish, but will also occasionally feed on
amphibians and water snakes. They forage by floating about in the
water and diving intermittently, using their webbed feet to propel
them. Cormorants grab fish with their hooked beaks unlike their close
relatives, the Anhingas, which use their pointed beaks to spear their
prey. Cormorants and Anhingas do not have water-proof feathers.
After foraging, the birds must spread their wings and wait for their
feathers to air dry.
The two individuals in my photo, taken on Sullivan’s Island, are
juveniles. Adults are a solid black and breeding adults grow tuft-like
plumes, one on each side of their head. This species can be somewhat
easily confused with the Great Cormorant, which is noticeably larger
and weighs almost twice as much as the Double-crested.
During the 1970s, Double-crested populations fell sharply due to
the use of DDT, but the species
has since recovered. This species PHOTO BY SARAH DARGAN DIAZ
is considered a pest by some
fisheries, and the government has
taken measures to reduce certain
populations, although the public
is forbidden to hunt the birds.
Sarah Dargan Diaz is a local
bird enthusiast on Sullivan’s
Island. If you have a question
about bird identification or would
like to learn more about a certain
type of bird, you may contact her at
dargan3484@gmail.com.

Two juvenile Double-crested Cormorants

take a break on Sullivan’s Island.
September 3, 2010
We’d like to thank you, Carolina Girl
C A R O L I N A G I R L YA C H T H O S T S C H I L D R E N F R O M E P W O R T H C H I L D R E N ’ S H O M E
O
n Sunday, August 8, 2010,
the Carolina Girl luxury
yacht hosted an afternoon
cruise in Charleston Harbor for
more than 80 children from the
Epworth Children’s Home, located
in Columbia, South Carolina.
For the second year in a row,
Captain Bob Murray invited kids
from the Home to board his 100-
foot yacht to enjoy Charleston
from a unique perspective.  The
children experienced firsthand
the responsibilities of a captain
(above and right) Students from the Epworth Children's Home set sail on the Carolina
Girl.
including navigating with a GPS,
keeping an eye on the weather
with radar and overseeing his
mates on board.
“Captain Bob let us drive the
boat and we saw dolphins, birds
and other people sailing,” said
Brett, a current resident at the
Epworth Children’s Home.  “It
was fun to act like we were on the
Titanic because the boat was so
large and beautiful.”
The children traveled from
Columbia that morning to attend
www.islandeyenews.com
13
a local church service
followed by lunch
provided by members
of the congregation. 
They then boarded
the Carolina Girl for
an afternoon on the
water.
Reflecting on the
children’s experience
on the yacht, Rev. John
Holler, President of the
Epworth Children’s
Home, said,“The trip 75 staff members and great care
broadened their horizons. It is taken in providing the children
was a definite ‘wow’ experience with comprehensive services
because it was a first for so many that meet their emotional,
of them.  They literally jumped up physical and spiritual needs.
and down with squeals of delight.  For more information on the
I give thanks to Captain Bob and Epworth Children’s Home, call
his crew for their gift to children 803-256-7394 or visit www.
who call Epworth home.”  epworthchildrenshome.org.
Since 1896, the Epworth The Carolina Girl is a luxury
Children’s Home has provided a yacht and event venue which
safe residence for children from sails out of Ripley Point in West
broken homes. Situated on 35 Ashley. Comfortably seating 150
acres in the heart of the state, the guests, the Carolina Girl provides
Home, which currently provides a posh setting and unparalleled
for more than 150 children and views of Charleston Harbor. For
young adults, was originally more info, contact Camille Keil at
established by the South Carolina camille@carolinagirlevents.com or
Annual Conference, now known call 818-2495.
as the United Methodist Church.
The home employees more than
14 September 3, 2010
Friday, September 3
2nd Annual Lowcountry
Jazz Festival
September 3-5 at the North
Charleston Performing Arts
Center. Performers include Spyro
Gyra; saxophone journeyman
Euge Groove, formerly of Tower
of Power; Paul “Shilts” Weimar,
former bandleader of Down To
The Bone; and noted Charleston
jazz musician Charlton Singleton.
For more info, visit www.
lowcountryjazz.com or call (704)
534-4228.
Sunday, September 5
4th Annual Lowcountry Wine
and Beer Festival
The Annual Lowcountry Wine
and Beer Festival, sponsored
by Barrier Islands Free Medical
Clinic, will offer an array of
fabulous wines from around
the world, lowcountry cuisine,
fine craft beers, and jazz by the
Cobblestone Quartet. Freshfields
Village from 4:00 – 7:30 PM.
Tickets are $30 in advance, $35
day of and may be purchased
at Freshfields Guest Services.
www.islandeyenews.com
Monday, September 6
Labor Day
Tuesday, September 7
The AARP East Cooper
Chapter
The Chapter will meet at 5:30 at
the East Cooper Senior Center
(Card Room) on Van Kolnitz Road
in Mt. Pleasant. This month our
service project is Meals on Wheels,
so please bring some canned
goods to the meeting. For more
information, call Debra Whitfield,
president, at 849-9548
Wednesday, September 8
After School Adventure Paddle
Come paddle with us after school
at Palmetto Islands County Park!
Advance registration required.
3:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Course # 23609.
Age: 6-12. Fee: $12. For more info,
call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.
Charleston Restaurant Week
September 8 - September 19. A
three-course meal will be $30 at
fine dining restaurants and $20
at casual dining restaurants.
More than 50 restaurants are
expected to participate. For more
information, please visit www.
restaurantweekcharleston.com.
Thursday, September 9
Jewish Rosh Hashanah/Feast of
Trumpets
Saturday, September 11
Patriot’s Day
Nutcracker Auditions
Auditions for the Nutcracker NPAC
performance will be held at 11 a.m.
at Fort Dorchester High School,
8500 Lincoln Blvd. N Charleston.
There is a $10 Audition fee. Ages
6 - 17 are welcome. For more info,
visit www.charlestonballet.org.
I s l a nd E y e C a l e nd a r
September 3 - September 17
A Day in the Forest with
Smokey Bear
This video is designed for students
in K – second grade and teaches
them how they can help prevent
wildfires from happening. The
video is 3D, 8 min. in length, and
is both fun and educational. Free.
Sewee Center, 5821 Highway
17 North, Awendaw. For more
info, call 928-3368 or visit www.
seweecenter.fws.gov
Berkeley Blueways Paddlefest!
Nature Adventures Outfitters will
offer a paddle of Wadboo Creek
and Swamp in the Francis Marion
National Forest from 10 a.m.
to 4 p.m. Try paddleboarding,
kayaking, canoeing or just come
and enjoy the food and music! Free
event. For more info, visit www.
PaddleSouthCarolina.org or call
568-3222.
Francis Marion Dirt Dash, Half
Marathon and 5k Run Walk                 in Mount Pleasant. Menu dinner
Run the Francis Marion National
Forest in Awendaw.  For more info,
contact Chad Haffa at 478-1779,
email fmdirtdash@gmail.com or
visit www.fmdirtdash.com.
Shagging on the Cooper
Dance the night away under the
stars at the new Mount Pleasant
Pier while enjoying live classic
oldies and beach music performed
by Local Motion from 7 - 11 p.m.  Visit the Cape Romain
Beverages will be available for
purchase on-site. Tickets are
$10 and advance purchase is
recommended. For more info, call
795-4386.
IOPNA Adopt a Highway
Cleanup is scheduled for 8 a.m.
Volunteers should meet at the
Red and White Shopping Center
to get clean-up equipment. Coffee
and donuts will be provided. Bring
the kids, grandkids, friends and
neighbors. It only takes about an
hour and is a pleasant way to join
with your neighbors to keep our
island clean and beautiful.
Sunday, September 12
Grandparent’s Day
11th annual Gene Johnson
Memorial Golf Tournament
At Wild Dunes Harbor Course
starting at 1 p.m. The Captain's
Choice tournament is $75 per
player, which includes food and
drinks during the tournament,
resort golf, a beach front BBQ
dinner after the tournament and
prizes!  You can sign up at VFW
Post 3137 next to the Windjammer
on the Isle of Palms.  Hole
sponsorships start at $100.  For
more info, contact Darrin Voke at
dvoke.post3137@yahoo.com.
Dog Day Afternoon
All dogs are invited to a pool
party at North Charleston’s
Wannamaker County Park! Large
dogs are invited to enjoy the
wave pool and smaller dogs can
take a dip in Otter Bay. Tickets:
$10 and advance purchase is
recommended. Noon – 5 p.m. Call
795-4386 for more info.
Lighthouses
Meet at Sewee Center at 9 a.m. for
a presentation on the history of the
lights, then leave McClellanville
aboard the Island Cat for a boat
ride through the Refuge waters,
ending with a walk to the lights on
Lighthouse Island. Call 928-3368
for more info or visit
www.seweecenter.fws.gov
September 3, 2010 15
Constitution/Citizenship Day lustrations, historical documents,
Tuesday, September 14 Up to 150 candidates will be sworn dramatic reenactments and studio
Day of Caring in as America’s newest citizens at interviews to tell the story of a true
Visit Trident United Way’s Charles Pinckney National Historic
Site, located at 1254 Long Point
public servant, the premiere of
this SCETV-produced film will be
website for more info at
www.tuw.org. Road in Mount Pleasant. The pub- shown at Charles Pinckney Na-
lic and school groups are invited to tional Historic Site, located at 1254
attend and are encouraged to bring Long Point Road in Mount Pleasant
Wednesday, September 15 chairs and blankets as seating will starting at 8 p.m. For more info,
be limited. For more info, call 881- call 881-5516 or visit www.nps.
Mindful Manners dog classes at
5516 or visit www.nps.gov/chpi gov/chpi
Sullivan’s Island Club
Cindy Carter, owner of Mindful
Manners Dog Training, will be Premiere of Forgotten Founder:
offering two dog obedience classes The Story of Charles Pinckney
at the Island Club. The puppy Using original art work, period il-
manners class begins at 6:30
p.m. and the basic manners class
begins at 7:30 p.m. For more
info, visit www.mindfulmanners.
net or call 906-9997. The Island
Club is located at Station 14 ½ on
Sullivan's Island, next to the Fish
Fry Shack.
Thursday, September 16
Sons of Confederate Veterans
meeting
Moultrie Camp #27 SCV meets ev-
ery third Thursday of the month at
The Point Grill, Patriots Point Blvd.
starts at 6 p.m. followed by speak-
er and business meeting. For more
info, called Richard Steadman at
442-8670.
IOP Community Wellness Fair
The IOP Rec. Dept will host their
Annual Community Wellness Fair
from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants
are invited to speak with local
healthcare professionals and spe-
cialists. Services will include blood
work, flu shots, free screenings/in-
formation and more. 24 28th Ave.
For more info, call Will McElheny
at 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net.
Friday, September 17
Constitution Day
www.islandeyenews.com
16
An intriguing island internship
BY ANNE ANDERSON
T
his past summer brought gentle adventure, from transporting a large Yellow
breezes, warm sunshine, bare feet on Bellied Slider with a puncture wound on
the beach and three young women his back to the wildlife vet, to seining with
with adventurous spirits, high tolerances families, welcoming folks to the Nature
for risk-taking and infectious smiles.  Center and planning programs for all ages,
Courtney Douds, Jessica Tipton and Lisa all with enthusiasm.  Courtney shares her
Scarano are three exceptional young women talents freely, and occasionally after she gets
who have added much to our summer days off of work you might be treated to a virtuoso
on Dewees Island, bringing with them fresh piano performance at the Huyler House!
perspectives and very interesting views.  All
three took intern positions on faith without L isa Scarano
ever having visited Dewees, relying on the
description on our website and a talk with
Lori Sheridan Wilson, our Environmental
Program Director, who convinced them that
this was an opportunity not to be missed.
Courtney Douds  respect for her and the other interns as
Our summer
Naturalist,
Courtney, is
responsible
for developing
interpretive
programs, the
maintenance of Lisa is one of our two turtle interns
wildlife exhibits, and hails from Maryville, Tennessee.  She
responding divides her time between Dewees and Cape
to wildlife Romain, spending two days on Dewees and
emergencies, three at the Cape one week, and alternately
and acting as three days on Dewees and two at the Cape
turtle patrol the next.  Her duties while on Dewees are to
backup.  She is help manage the turtle programs, probing
in the Nature and evaluating nests, and being on-call for
Center Monday morning backups for walking.  During the
through Friday day she is at the Nature Center fulfilling
when she is duties as needed.  face.
not out on the Lisa is a rising Senior studying
island with related duties. Environmental Education at Coastal
From Buffalo, New York, Courtney Carolina University in Conway, and is
graduated from Columbia University in majoring in Marine Science and Biology.
May of this year with a degree in Ecology Lisa’s first impressions of the island
Evolution and Environmental Biology. She were an initial shock that parts of South
responded to our job posting for a summer Carolina are as pristine as Dewees
Naturalist on an eco-employment website.  and that there is so much wildlife. She
She arrived on Dewees less than a week knew nothing of the maritime forest, the
after she graduated, ready for the unknown wildness, and that many areas are allowed
and the unexpected. to develop naturally.  Experiencing the
According to Courtney, her first natural habitats that everyone cherishes,
impressions of the island were the absolute she explains, “It makes it hard not to care
beauty of the area, the loveliness of the about the environment!”
isolation, and the pleasure of observing The alligators have also been an
the Osprey. Her biggest surprise was being unexpected surprise, but in all, Lisa has
startled by a large alligator, never having found everyone on the island to be friendly,
been exposed to these “wild animals” with accepting and open.  “It really is a unique
which she is gradually making peace. It’s place,” she smiled.
the people, she said, who make it very
comfortable to be on the island.  J essica T ipton (pictured right)
Every day for Courtney brings a new The second turtle intern, Jessica, calls
September 3, 2010
Newport News, Virginia, her home. A
rising Senior, she is a Biology Major at
the Christopher Newport University.  She
found Dewees while surfing for jobs listings
and came across a job description posted
in 2007 that intrigued her.  She didn’t
have much hope, but she responded to the
POA email and set up a phone interview
with Lori the next day.  In less than one
week she accepted the position, moved
out of her apartment and headed south. 
Her philosophy is that,  “Some of the best
things happen spontaneously.” 
Jessica’s first impressions of the island
are that she loves everything about it,
from the naturalist house, to the variety
of opportunities to learn and Lori’s caring
competent persons.  As part of her work
at the Cape, she and Lisa took motor boat
operation training from the Fish and Wildlife
Service.  “That was a stretch!  It was us and
all those DNR guys,” laughed Jessica, but
pointed out that Lori encouraged them to
keep at it. “I am completely taken aback
by the beach,” said Jessica. “You can be
out there and no one else is there.  No loud
music and everyone is polite!  It’s the little
things, the willingness of strangers to stop
and give a hand.  No one gets mad when
you make a mistake.”
Director Lori Wilson pointed out that,
“These intern positions are jobs for the
more adventurous type,” and while she’s
sad to see them go, these energetic young
women will leave Lori with a smile on her
Anne Anderson is a long-time Dewees
Island homeowner.
 Deceased dolphin found
on Sullivan’s beach
BY MEREDITH POWELL
O
n August 18, a citizen
found the body of a 163
cm (5’ 4”), one-year-old
female bottlenose dolphin. The
dolphin was already in moderate
decomposition, and Wayne McFee
of NOAA’s National Center for
Coastal Ocean Science reported
that they found a post-mortem
shark bite on her side. The wound
had exposed some of the internal
organs, but after performing a
necropsy there was no evidence
found of human contact. Though
authorities still do not know the
real cause of the dolphin’s death,
they will begin the long process of
checking further for viruses.
If you find an animal stranded
(dead or alive) on the beach, do
not touch it or push it back into the
ocean as this can cause further
suffering for the animal. Contact
authorities for help and report it
to SCDNR at 1-800-922-5431. For
more information, contact Wayne
McFee at wayne.mcfee@noaa.gov
or call 762-8592.
18
Improving your Constitution
C O N S T I T U T I O N W E E K R E T U R N S T O C H A R L E S P I N C K N E Y N AT I O N A L H I S T O R I C S I T E
J
oin the National Park
Service in celebration of
Constitution Week by
attending one of several free
special events scheduled for
the week of September 17-
25, 2010, at Charles Pinckney
National Historic Site located at
1254 Long Point Road in Mount
Pleasant. The park preserves the
last 28 acres of Snee Farm, a
plantation that was once owned
by Charles Pinckney who was a
principal framer and signer of
the U.S. Constitution.
On Friday, September 17,
help celebrate Citizenship
Day during the park’s annual
naturalization ceremony at 10:30
a.m. During the ceremony, up
to 150 candidates will be sworn
in as America’s newest citizens.
The public and school groups
are invited to the free program,
and are encouraged to bring
chairs or blankets as seating will
be limited. Later that day at 8
p.m., the public is invited to the
premiere of a new documentary
on Founding Father Charles
Pinckney. Produced by SCETV,
Forgotten Founder: the Story of
Charles Pinckney uses original
art work, period illustrations,
historical documents, dramatic
BY CARLIN TIMMONS
reenactments and studio
interviews to tell the story of a
true public servant. The program
was funded in part by the
Friends of Historic Snee Farm
and the Humanities Council,
SC. Dr. Walter Edgar will
introduce the documentary and
Producer Sanford “Dave” Adams
will answer questions at the
conclusion. The free screening
will be held outdoors under a
large tent. For more information
on Forgotten Founder, please
Recreationists will be participating in Constitution Day on Friday, September 24, and
Saturday, September 25.
visit http://bit.ly/Pinckney.
On Saturday, September 18,
join park staff at 11 a.m. for
the unveiling of an original oil
painting interpreting President
George Washington’s 1791 visit
to Snee Farm. Artist Martin
Pate has created paintings for
the National Park Service for
over fifteen years. Following the
unveiling, Pate and National
Park Service Archeologist John
Jameson will present a program
on Archeology and the Arts.
September 3, 2010
The painting was funded by
the Southeastern Archeological
Center and will be a dramatic
addition to the permanent
exhibits at Pinckney.
Two days of living history
are scheduled on Friday and
Saturday, September 24 and
25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Watch craftsmen in period dress
demonstrate rice-pounding,
indigo-dyeing, iron-smithing,
brick masonry and domestic arts.
Also included are Revolutionary
War soldiers, 18th century
music, sweetgrass basket sewing,
quilting, African drumming and
Gullah story-telling. Visitors
can also participate in a game of
historic cricket.
Throughout the week, visitors
may take part in the “I Signed
the Constitution” program,
signing a scroll that will be sent
to the National Constitution
Center in Philadelphia, the city
where Charles Pinckney and
38 other delegates signed the
world-changing document on
September 17, 1787.
All events are free. For more
information or group reservations,
please call the park at 881-5516
or visit us on the Web at www.
nps.gov/chpi.
September 3, 2010
Who will write your memoirs?
M E M O I R W R I T I N G C L A S S E S N O W O F F E R E D AT I O P R E C . A N D C R E AT I V E S PA R K
D
o you remember your first
car, your first job or your
first love? Would you
like to write down some of these
memories for yourself, your
children or your grandchildren?
Our “Writing Your Memoirs”
class will help you get started.
Each class includes instruction,
examples and writing exercises.
During this eight-week class,
you’ll learn how to uncover your
memories, organize your ideas,
and make your stories interesting
while having a lot of fun in the
process. At the conclusion, your
favorite story will be included in
a class book. Space is limited to
19
PROVIDED BY THE IOP REC. DEPT.
12 students so register today. class and has over 40 articles
Classes are offered at two to her credit. She founded and
locations: published a regional parenting
• Isle of Palms Recreation magazine. In addition to her non-
Department, located at fiction work, she has published
24 28th Ave., on Tuesdays short stories and a young adult
from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for 8 novel.
weeks starting September  Register by call 886-8294 for
7. Cost: $45 the Isle of Palms class or 881-
• Creative Spark Center 3780 for the Creative Spark class.
for the Arts, located at
757 Long Point Road,
Thursdays from 2 to 3:30
p.m. for 8 weeks starting
September 9. Cost: $65
Tonya McGue will be the class
instructor and facilitator. She
has experience teaching this
20 September 3, 2010

Ravenous reader
earns reward
Congratulations to Lauren Medich, winner of the Young Adult
Summer Reading Program at the Poe Library! Lauren, a seventh
grade student at Moultrie Middle School, won a $50 gift card from the
Mount Pleasant Town Center for her summer reading efforts. Keep on
reading, Lauren!
PHOTO BY: LINDA RUMPH

Reader Lauren Medich with head librarian, Jeri England.

Eye Spy

Do you know what this is?

No one guessed last weeks Eye Spy, it was part of the Brooks
Custom Woodwork sign on Sullivan's Island. The first one to
send in the correct answer for the Eye Spy will receive a coupon
for a free ice cream at Café Medley on Sullivan's Island.

Kids, send your guess for this week’s Eye

Spy to: info@luckydognews.com
or call 886-NEWS. Please include your
mailing address with your submission.
September 3, 2010
Shag season wrapping up at
Mount Pleasant Pier
PROVIDED BY CHARLESTON PARKS AND RECREATION
B
each music season is winding
down, but Shaggin’ on the Cooper
continues for two more evenings at
the Mount Pleasant Pier. This is your last
chance to dance the night away to live
music on Saturday, September 11, and
Saturday, October 9, with the final pier
concerts of the season.  Come out and take
advantage of the cooler fall weather with
live music and stunning evening views on
the end of one of the longest piers in the
southeast.   these events so arrive early! Admission is
Coming up on September 11, enjoy
music by Local Motion and on October 9,
celebrate the final Shaggin’ on the Cooper
event of 2010 with music from beach music
favorite, The Coppertones.  Bands will
perform live at the end of Mount Pleasant’s
1,250-foot long pier.  Gates open for each
performance at 7 p.m. and music begins at
8 p.m.   Bring the whole family (ages 3 and
up) or come with that special someone to
unwind after a long week.  Not a dancer?
Enjoy the music on the pier and watch
the sunset over Charleston Harbor while
sipping your favorite beverage, available
for purchase on-site.   and Security+ from CompTia, Bob is building
A limited number of tickets will be sold for
$10 per event or $8 for Charleston County
residents if purchased in advance. For more
information or to purchase tickets, visit
www.ccprc.com or call 795-4386.
21
Computer questions?
Rent-a-Bob!
FREE COMPUTER USE CLASSES
AT S U N R I S E P R E S B Y T E R I A N
I
sle of Palms resident Bob Hooper is a whiz
at computers. Starting with computer
repairs in 1987, Bob has since started his
own computer repair and assistance company
called, appropriately, Rent-a-Bob. “I can ‘speak
the lingo’, but I also work well with older
clients,” says Bob. Certified in A+, Network+,
a strong client base on the islands and east of
the Cooper, and in response to several requests
he’s received from clients, Bob will be offering
a free class on computer and internet use at
Sunrise Presbyterian Church on Sullivan’s
Island immediately following the 11 a.m. service
on September 19. Bob will also host a more
in-depth class on Thursday, September 30 at
6:30 p.m. in the same location and will go over
questions, myths and truths about computers
and the internet.
“This [class] will give you the knowledge to
go buy a computer, set it up and feel confident
about what you are doing,” says Bob, noting that
he will be available to help anyone after both
classes that need a little more help or guidance.
For more information, contact Bob Hooper at
822-7794 or 886-8939, or email him at rentabob@
bellsouth.net
22
CHARLESTON WELCOMES BACK MUSEUM MILE WEEKEND
T
his coming September 25
and 26, 2010, the cultural
sites along Charleston’s
Museum Mile will come together
for the second annual Museum
Mile Weekend.  A single pass
allows admission to thirteen
sites along and around Meeting
Street in historic downtown
Charleston. Around the one-mile
section of Meeting Street, visitors
can discover six museums, five
Walk a mile in culture
nationally important historic
houses, four scenic parks and
a Revolutionary War powder
magazine. Many of the cultural
institutions will also offer special
programs during Museum Mile
Weekend. The Weekend Pass
is only $20 for adults and $10
for children 12 and under. If
purchased separately, adult
admission for the participating
sites would be over $100 for
www.islandeyenews.com
September 3, 2010
adults and $50 for children.
Museum Mile Weekend
passes are available at www.
charlestonsmuseummile.org
and at all Charleston Visitor
Center locations including
the downtown location at 375
Meeting Street and in Mount
Pleasant at 99 Harry Hallman
Blvd.  Online purchasers will
receive their passes in the
mail.
Passholders will show
their passes and participating
venues will be checked off
at admission.  Passholders
who do not see everything
they want to see on Saturday
can return for the rest of the
attractions on Sunday.  For
more information, visit www.
charlestonsmuseummile.org
or call 722-2996 x235.
 IOP Community
Wellness Fair
PROVIDED BY THE IOP RECREATION CENTER

The Isle of Palms Recreation Department will host their Annual

Community Wellness Fair on Thursday, September 16, 2010,
from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants are invited to the Isle of Palms
Recreation Department at 24 28th Avenue to speak with local
healthcare professionals and specialists. Healthcare professionals
will be on-site to provide several beneficial health services,
including blood work, flu shots, free screenings and information,
and much more. For more
information, contact Will
McElheny at 886-8294 or
visit www.iop.net.
24
Tackling Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a
common overuse injury of the elbow. Playing
tennis is one of the obvious causes of tennis
elbow, but many other activities can also
cause the same injury. Activities such as
golfing, fishing, gardening, and even driving
can trigger the inflammation that causes
tennis elbow pain.
The pain from tennis elbow is usually limited
to where the tendons of your forearm muscles
attach to the elbow (Fig. 1). However, pain can
also spread into the forearm, wrist, and hand.
Some other symptoms noticed with tennis
elbow are weakness of the forearm muscles,
a painful grip during certain activities and an
inability to hold certain objects.
Below are some self-care tips
to help control and possibly
eliminate tennis elbow:
• Ice the area of pain for
20 minutes after use.
• Stretch the forearm muscles
before and after use (Fig. 2).
• Massage tension and knots in
the forearm muscles.
• Use a tough chronic conditions.
Figure 1
September 3, 2010
Health
BY DR. LUCAS COLE
tennis elbow support brace if needed.
Many cases of tennis elbow can be
eliminated through the use of the self-care
remedies listed above. If pain persists then
the treatment options listed below may be
required to resolve the condition:
• Class IV Laser Therapy: Laser therapy
is quickly becoming the treatment of
choice for this type of injury. It is safe,
painless, and usually takes less than
five minutes to perform the procedure.
• Manual Therapy: Manual therapies
such as myofascial release are great
for helping to eliminate the tension or Figure 2
knots present in the forearm muscles.
care recommendations. In the past, Tennis
• Exercise: Rehabilitative exercises such
Elbow has been difficult to treat, but using
as assisted stretching can be helpful in
today’s technology and taking a multifaceted
reversing the patterns that lead to the
approach creates a sensible approach that
development of Tennis Elbow.
gets results.
• Medication: If pain is persistent and
Dr. Lucas Cole owns and operates Cole
severe, then drugs may be needed to
Chiropractic Clinic in Mount Pleasant. Along
decrease inflammation. This is not a
with being a chiropractic physician, Dr. Cole
long term option but, when used in
is a Titleist Certified Golf Fitness Instructor,
conjunction with the treatments listed
a Certified Class IV Laser Therapist, and is
above, it is helpful at treating the really
the Official Chiropractor for the PGA Tour’s
Nationwide Tour Championship. He can be
In our clinic we have found that 87%
reached at his office at 416-8593 or by email
of cases can be effectively managed with
at carolinagolfdoctor@gmail.com
Class IV Laser Therapy, myofascial release
techniques, prescribed exercises, and self
www.islandeyenews.com
September 3, 2010 25

"Paws"itive training with Cindy Carter

BY MEREDITH POWELL

C
indy Carter, owner and Stella’s excellent results which is the only recognized you drop,” musical chairs and
head trainer of Mindful encouraged Cindy to pursue certifying body in the nation. She Zen attention. Those with dogs
Manners Dog Training, her passion. Three years ago is also a Canine Good Citizenship that are over 20 weeks may enroll
offers in-home and on-site she began apprenticing with Evaluator for the American in Basic Manners, which is a little
positive, gentle private dog Susan and quickly worked on Kennel Club and a professional different than the puppy class as
training and group classes for her establishing her own company. member of the Association of Pet they will also have an opportunity
clients and their pets. The positive energy she had Dog Trainers. to practice tricks like “shake” and
After working in Atlanta for created in her feng shui designs As Cindy is constantly exposed “roll over” and will include off-
years as a feng shui practioner, has effectively transferred over to to new and different dogs and leash playtime.
Cindy found her real passion her job as a dog trainer and is a scenarios, she continues to “I think we all want a
in dog training after adopting present part of her vegan lifestyle. further customize her methods relationship with our dogs and
a shy shepherd mix whom she Cindy’s credentials include and attends conferences and I want to work to enforce that
named Stella. She looked for being one of the only two Certified seminars across the country. positive relationship,” says
training classes around town, Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Starting in the middle of this Cindy. She does not believe in
but discovered she needed more Assessed (or CPDT-KA) for the month, Cindy will be sharing her shock collars or spike collars and
than that; she needed behavior area from Charleston’s barrier knowledge at the Island Club on while she encourages her clients
modification, and she ultimately islands to Columbia. The Sullivan’s Island where she will to read food labels, she does not
decided to turn to local dog certification is only available be offering two different classes try to tell them which food they
trainer Susan Marett of Purely through the Certification Council one evening a week for seven should buy for their dog. She is
Positive Dog Training. for Professional Dog Trainers, weeks starting September 15. available to help teach dogs and
The first week will be an develop appropriate behaviors
orientation session where Cindy that will last a lifetime.
Breac h Inlet Tide Char t evaluates the dogs and begins
observing their behaviors and
Puppy Manners will be held
on Wednesday nights at the
Date High Tide Low Tide identifying their thresholds. Island Club on Sullivan’s Island
Puppy Manners is the class at 6:30 p.m., and Basic Manners
Sept. 3 3:07am/3:50pm 10:22am/11:16pm designed for puppies of any breed will follow at 7:30 p.m. For more
Sept. 4 4:15am/4:55pm 11:25am under 20 weeks and teaches information or to register for an
basic skills such as “sit”, “down”, upcoming class, contact Cindy
Sept. 5 5:20am/5:55pm 12:12am/12:25pm “stay” and “come.” Puppies Carter at mindfulmanners@
Sept. 6 6:21am/6:51pm 1:04am/1:22pm and owners alike are sure to be me.com, call 906-9997, visit www.
pleased with the intriguing games mindfulmanners.net or follow her
Sept. 7 7:19am/7:44pm 2:07am/2:15pm that help to incorporate these on facebook at Mindful Manners
Sept. 8 8:14am/8:35pm 1:54am/2:17pm basic commands, like “shop ‘til Dog Training.
Sept. 9 9:08am/9:25pm 2:43am/3:11pm
Sept. 10 10:01am/10:15pm 3:31am/4:04pm
Sept. 11 10:54am/11:05pm 4:19am/4:57pm
Sept. 12 11:49am/11:56pm 5:08am/5:52pm
Sept. 13 12:45am 5:50am/6:48pm
Sept. 14 12:51am/1:43pm 6:54am/7:47pm
Sept. 15 1:47am/2:43pm 7:52am/8:47pm
Sept. 16 2:46am/3:42pm 8:53am/9:45pm

Hurricanes, storms etc., are NOT included in the

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

Source: www.saltwatertides.com
One of Cindy's classes downtown at the Battery.
26
It’s Labor Day! Are your investments
working as hard as you are?
O
n Labor Day, we celebrate
the achievements of
the American worker.
As someone who works hard
yourself, you can appreciate this
holiday and, of course, you hope
your efforts will eventually result
in achieving your important
goals, such as college for your
children or a comfortable
retirement. But, if you’re going to
turn these objectives into reality,
your money needs to work as
hard as you do.
What steps can you take to
help make sure your money
is working hard for you? For
starters, consider keeping the
money you may need in the
near future in investments that
pay minimal rates of return.
These investments can offer
you liquidity — in other words,
it’s no problem to get at your
money when you need it. But
you can find some investments
Financial
BY DIMI MATOUCHEV
that offer liquidity and can pay
a more attractive rate of return:
investments that may work
harder for you.
Another reason you may keep
money in a low-rate investment
is that such investments
typically offer greater protection
of principal than an investment
such as a stock; and this is
certainly true as stock prices
will always fluctuate and the
return of your principal is not
guaranteed. Nonetheless, stocks
have historically offered returns
that have been higher than the
inflation rate, although as you’ve
no doubt heard, past performance
is not a guarantee of future
results and if your investments
do not keep up with inflation, you
could lose significant purchasing
power over time.
Clearly, then, your goal should
be to make sure your savings
and investments are working
www.islandeyenews.com
hard for you without taking on
more risk than you would like,
and one of the greatest risks
occurs when you have all your
money tied up in just one type
of investment. When a market
downturn strikes a particular
group of investments and you
have no other investments to help
cushion the blow, your portfolio
could take a sizable hit. One way
to help lower your risk level is to
spread, or diversify, your money
among a range of investments
such as stocks, bonds and
government securities. While
diversification can’t guarantee a
profit or protect against loss, it
can help you reduce the effects
of volatility.
Another way to make sure your
investments are working hard for
you is to have them “multi-task.”
Consider your 401(k) or other
employer-sponsored retirement
plan. Not only does your money
September 3, 2010
have the opportunity to grow
on a tax-deferred basis, which
means it can accumulate faster
than if it were placed in an
investment on which you paid
taxes every year, but also your
contributions are generally made
with pre-tax dollars, so the more
you contribute, the lower your
taxable income. Such “double
duty” is a great way to keep your
money working hard for you, and
the same principle may apply to
your traditional IRA, assuming
your income level qualifies you to
make deductible contributions.
Labor Day comes and goes
quickly, but by making the right
moves, you can help ensure your
money is working hard for you
365 days a year.
This article was provided by
Edward Jones, located at 1505
Palm Blvd on the Isle of Palms.
You can reach them at 886-9229
or visit www.edwardjones.com.
September 3, 2010
Turtle Team gets “Stinky”
S C A Q U A R I U M ’ S F I R S T R E H A B I L I TAT E D T U R T L E F O U N D D U R I N G S U R V E Y
O
n July 5, 2010, the
first Loggerhead turtle
rehabilitated at the
South Carolina Aquarium was
recaptured nearly 10 years
after it was released from the
now fully-fledged Sea Turtle
Hospital. Dubbed “Stinky” by the
Aquarium’s animal care staff,
the Loggerhead was recently
recaptured a few miles off central
Georgia by the R/V Georgia
Bulldog during a regional turtle
trawl survey managed by the
South Carolina Department of
Natural Resources (SC DNR).  Loggerhead. Dr. Owens was able
Between release and recapture,
Stinky’s weight increased from
103 to 176 pounds and his length
grew by five inches, a normal rate
of growth for a juvenile loggerhead
of his size.
According to an article in
Loggerhead Lines, Stinky was
found floating in Port Royal Sound
in Beaufort County on August
22, 2000, and was picked up by
SC DNR Law Enforcement. The
turtle had a heavy barnacle load
but no external wounds. After
being examined by Sea Islands
Vet Clinic on James Island, SC
DNR transported the turtle to
the South Carolina Aquarium for
rehabilitation. Upon arrival, Stinky
was determined to be positively
buoyant and was classified as a
“floater.”   Initial supportive care
(administered with the guidance of
Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue
and Rehabilitation Center and
the N.C. State University College
of Veterinary Medicine) included
antibiotic and vitamin injections,
HELP US HELP SEA TURTLES IN SOUTH CAROLINA
Lighting and habitat
disturbance are detrimental
to sea turtle nesting and
hatchling emergence. Because
of this, we recommend the
following steps to minimize any
negative impact on sea turtles
on the beach:
• Obey local and county
ordinances regarding
lighting, flashlights,
fireworks and bonfires.
• Do not disturb (touch,
flash photography or light
shining) a nesting sea turtle
and please observe her
from a distance.
• Turn off lights and close
blinds and drapes on
windows visible from the
beach, dusk to dawn, May
through October.
• Encourage your local and
27
PROVIDED BY THE SC AQUARIUM
PHOTO BY BARBARA BERGWERF
fluid therapy, and radiographs
which confirmed internal gas
pockets in the animal’s body
cavity. After a short period, Stinky
began to eat squid, a few crabs
and a lot of mackerel. Following
two months of treatment his
overall health had improved, but
his floating disorder persisted.
On October 11, 2000, a team was
assembled from the Aquarium and
SC DNR led by Dr. David Owens,
a renowned endocrinologist with
the College of Charleston, to
perform a laparoscopy on the ill
to treat the animal’s internal
infection and displace the air
that was causing the turtle to
float. A second laparoscopy was
performed on November 15, 2000, of 51 sea turtles to be recaptured sized turtles may help refine
and revealed great improvement following successful rehabilitation the estimates of the amount of
of the internal condition and and release by the Aquarium, time that must elapse before
soon after, Stinky was cleared for and both were recaptured in the loggerheads fully mature.
release. On January 11, 2001, regional in-water trawl survey.  In addition to highlighting the
Stinky was transported to the Furthermore, because this turtle strong partnership between the
warm waters off Florida by SC is a male that would not come Aquarium and SCDNR that now
DNR and released at the Archie ashore unless he stranded again, benefits many species statewide,
Carr National Wildlife Refuge in the odds were stacked even more this sea turtle’s story also
Melbourne.  For the next nine and against ever receiving a report beautifully illustrates why patience
a half years, his whereabouts and on his whereabouts after he was is so crucial among those working
status remained unknown. released.  So when Julia Byrd, SC to conserve and recover our
This story is a remarkable DNR Biologist and Chief Scientist state reptile, the Loggerhead Sea
example of the success of for the July 5-9 cruise, reported Turtle.   In the three decades that
rehabilitation, for which little that he “looked fat and healthy have passed since Loggerheads
data is available.  While satellite- and was very energetic when he were added to the Endangered
telemetry (which has been used was brought onboard,” Sea Turtle Species List in 1978, nesting in the
by the South Carolina Aquarium) Hospital staff were elated. southeast has declined while in-
provides a means to gauge the “Recapturing this turtle is an water catch rates have increased. 
initial success of rehabilitation amazing and unprecedented Because 90% of in-water collected
and release, documenting long- opportunity to study a sea turtle, Loggerheads are healthy juveniles
term survivorship requires in this part of the world, that is that are predominantly females
recapturing turtles which is not transitioning through puberty, a (determined from testosterone
common.  Stinky is only the second critical life stage for the recovery levels) originating from our region,
of sea turtles that has never been these individuals, if they survive to
properly studied,” said Dr. Owens.  maturity, may lead to an increase
county administrations SCDNR is hopeful that the steroid in the number of adult nesting
to enforce their lighting hormone samples collected for Dr. females in the future.
ordinances. Owens and other collaborators
• Fill in your holes on the from Stinky and other similar-
beach at the end of the day
(adults and hatchlings can
become trapped in holes
dug in the sand).
• Remove tents, chairs,
etc. from the beach and
dunes each day that
could obstruct a sea turtle
nesting at night.
• Remove trash (especially
plastic bags and balloons)
from the beach that could
be mistaken for food by sea
turtles if it blows into the
ocean.
• If you spot an injured sea
turtle on the water (or on
the beach or in the marsh),
call 1-800-922-5431 to
report it.
www.islandeyenews.com