Since May 2005

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POSTAL PATRON
PERMIT NO 437
Volume 15 Issue 3 FREE May 24, 2019

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

Hail to the
Chief
K I M B E R LY U S R Y R E T I R E S
AFTER 25 YEARS OF
SERVICE

BY MIMI WOOD
THE ISLAND EYE NEWS STAFF WRITER

IOP City Council, past and present, turned out in force for
Chief Usry’s farewell luncheon. PHOTO BY MIMI WOOD

A
fter 25 years in public service, most
spent in service to the Isle of Palms
Police Department, Interim Police Chief
Kimberly Usry bid adieu to a lively crowd of
well-wishers gathered in her honor on May 13,
at the IOP City Hall.
Having grown up on Hartnett Blvd., Chief
Congressman Joe Cunningham and IOP Mayor Jimmy Carroll opposing offshore drilling and seismic air gun
Usry began her career as a dispatcher with blasting at the May 18 rally. PHOTOS BY KATY CALLOWAY
the Town of Mount Pleasant, transferring to

Hands Across The Sand

John’s Island as a Communication Supervisor
with the St. John’s Fire Department after two
years.

unites local leaders

“Chief Buckhannon hired me as a dispatcher
for the IOPPD in 1997,” stated Usry, where
she rose steadily through the ranks, after
graduating from the Police Academy in 1999.
In addition to “successfully keeping
the department accredited with CALEA,” BY KATY CALLOWAY
a prestigious, national law enforcement THE ISLAND EYE NEWS MANAGING EDITOR
credentialing authority “from 2006-2017,”

O
Chief Usry is proud to have revamped the n Saturday, May 18, 17 locations
IOPPD’s procedures for departmental hiring across South Carolina advocated
and promotions. She was responsible for the by joining hands in protest against
installation of mobile data terminals in the offshore drilling. Local politicians,
patrol cars, and she implemented computer community leaders and activists gathered
software that linked officer-generated incident at the Folly Beach Pier for this 10th
reports to the community crime map, accessible annual event, hosted by Oceana South
to the general public. Carolina, Don’t Drill Lowcountry and the
Coastal Conservation League.
Chief continues on page 4 The morning started with a beach sweep
organized by the Surfrider Foundation
Charleston Chapter, which was followed
by a press conference that brought SC
politicians from as far as Columbia and
Washington DC.
Alan Hancock, Energy and Climate
Advocacy Director for the Coastal
Conservation League welcomed
Conservation continues on page 5

TURTLE DOTTIE FRANK SI BIRD

TEAM QUEEN BEE WALK
page 8 page 13 page 19
www.islandeyenews.com
2 May 24, 2019
Isle of Palms Mayor’s Message
A
nother summer is upon us
and the city is going full
force in every direction.
This past month, we hired Kevin
Cornett as our new police chief.
City Council will swear him in at
our May 28 council meeting, and
his first day on the job will be
June 3. Please come to our city
council meeting to meet Chief
Cornett and say hello. We are
happy to welcome Chief Cornett
to our City family and excited to
see him build strong community
relations and implement his
community-oriented policing
approach within the agency.
Chief Cornett started his law
enforcement career in the City
of Columbia as a police officer
in 2005, and rose through the
ranks prior to becoming the chief
of police in Springdale in 2012.
The City is faced with several
large dollar projects which we are
diligently working on through our
Ways and Means Committee. My
top priority remains improving
drainage infrastructure on the
island, however, we have other
projects that are now sharing the
top “must do” list.
Starting with the first one,
drainage, we have Thomas and
Hutton designing three drainage
outfalls, one at 41st Ave., one at
CIVIC
Jimmy Carroll.
36th Ave. and one at 31st Ave.
The estimated cost is $3.9 million.
The City remains committed at
addressing our growing drainage
related needs in phases.
The Planning Commission is
looking at strategies to make our
island more resilient. It is time
www.islandeyenews.com
for us to start using pervious
sidewalks, driveways and pool
surrounds. Doing so would
drastically help the City manage
stormwater.
Last year, we increased
expenses associated with our
drainage maintenance contract
to maintain and clean our ditches
more frequently throughout the
year. Also, SCDOT performed
significant improvements earlier
this year to assist in stormwater
management within the SCDOT
right-of-way infrastructure and
they committed to return to the
island every quarter to continue
working on these priorities.
The Public Safety Building,
built in 2009, has serious
construction deficiencies that
need to be addressed now.
Trident Construction, who built
Fire Station 1, is doing the
investigative work and testing to
identify all of the repairs needed.
The actual work will likely not
start until January 2020 and
won’t be completed until the
next fiscal year, so we are trying
to pay for the repairs without
borrowing. But, we need to be
prepared to borrow if need be.
Another “must do” project is
the marina docks, that the City is
contractually obligated to replace.
The City is pursuing the permits
now, which may take around 52
weeks for a project this large.
This is yet another project that
will cost millions. In the future,
any leases the City considers
should be triple net leases, with
the tenant being responsible
for taxes, insurance and both
ordinary and extraordinary
maintenance.
This is the first summer
with the new beach parking
regulations that requires parallel
parking on both sides of Palm
Blvd. between 21st and 40th
Aves. I recently visited other local
beaches and saw how great our
plan is working as compared to
where we were several years ago.
We still have some tweaking to
do, but beach parking is much
better organized and we have
successfully reduced the impact
on our residential areas.
Please keep up with the City’s
calendar and social media for all
of the upcoming special events
and meetings!
Jimmy Carroll, Mayor
jcarroll@iop.net
843.452.1200
9 May 24, 2019 3
CIVIC Lucky Dog Publishing
o f SC, LL C

Election results saw close count Publisher of the

The Island Eye News
N E W C O M E R S S M I T H A N D H A M M O N D S E C U R E S E AT S and The Island Connection

BY KATY CALLOWAY
THE ISLAND EYE NEWS MANAGING EDITOR

S
ullivan’s Island welcomed
two new councilmembers
on May 7 and saw one hold
on to his seat.
In what turned out to be an
uncomfortably close election,
decided by only 38% of the 1,686
registered voters on the island,
Kaye Smith topped the ballot
count at the polls by a total of
349 votes. In contrast, newcomer
Greg Hammond was trailing after
the polls closed, one vote ahead
municipal election. Out of a total
of 51 absentee ballots cast, Kaye
Smith again garnered the most
support, with 32 votes, while
Hammond secured his position
over Howard with 30 absentee
votes to Howard’s 23.
In total, the results were
as follows: Kaye Smith, 382;
Bachman Smith, 362; Greg
Hammond, 358; Rita Langley,
357 and Mark Howard, 349.
With two new councilmembers,
as we begin to see the summer
crowds trickle in. Stormwater
management will continue to be
Lynn Pierotti
a concern for the barrier island,
lynn@luckydognews.com
as is sea level rise.
publisher
Second term councilmember
Bachman Smith hopes to Katy Calloway
engage elected officials at the katy@luckydognews.com
state and federal level to help managing editor
address Sullivan’s stormwater
management issues, as well Jennifer Tuohy
as other coastal municipalities jennifer@luckydognews.com
suggesting, “If we treat stormwater contributing editor

of Mark Howard, who finished
last with 325 votes.
It was the absentee ballot
count that turned the tide for the
Sullivan’s Island may have a
fresh perspective on unresolved
issues. Parking and traffic will
be at the forefront of the agenda,
as more than a Sullivan’s Island
Swan Richards
specific issue and engage staff senior graphic designer
and elected officials from other
coastal municipalities in a Alejandro Ferreyros
cooperative manner, we can get graphic designer

the ear of the folks who make Lori McGee 843-614-0901

the regulations that are tying our
ALL CITY OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED, hands.”
advertising executive

M O N D A Y, M A Y 2 7 , M E M O R I A L D A Y The two new councilmembers Christian LeBlanc

will be sworn in at the June 18 christian@luckydognews.com
Reminder Garbage pickup schedule will be as follows: council meeting. social media
Council convenes Tuesday,
Tuesday, May 28 – Breach Inlet through 30th Ave. May 21 for its regular meeting. Gregg Bragg
Wednesday, May 29 – 30th Ave. through Wild Dunes On the agenda is the second Mimi Wood
readings of the FY 19-20 General staff writers
Attention: There will be no debris/miscellaneous pick up Fund Budget and Water and
during the week. Sewer Budget proposals. •

Remember that roll-out carts cannot be placed at the curb before CONTRIBUTORS
5 p.m. the night before collection and must be rolled back to the
CAREY SULLIVAN
house or enclosure by 9 a.m. the morning following collection.
MARY PRINGLE
ANNE HARRIS
JENNY HIRSCH
COLIN MCCANDLESS
ROB BYKO

•
PUBLISHED BY
Lucky Dog Publishing
of South Carolina, LLC
P.O. Box 837
Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
843.886.NEWS

Submit your letters to the editor to:

katy@luckydognews.com

DEADLINE:
CIVIC CALENDAR MAY 29 for our JUN. 7 issue

RECYCLE - WEDNESDAY, JUN. 5 - RECYCLE

Tuesday, Jun. 4 Sullivan’s Island
Monday, May 27 843.883.3198
Personnel Committee
Memorial Day 8:30 a.m. www.sullivansisland-sc.com The Island Eye News, a wholly owned
subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of SC
CITY OFFICES CLOSED 1207 Palm Boulevard LLC, is a free, independent newspaper
Tuesday, May 28
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4 May 24, 2019
During her tenure with the
Chief continues from cover
IOPPD, Usry introduced the
use of electronic citations to
the department, and worked
to interface those citations into
the report management system,
reducing paperwork.
“I am happy to have served all
these years,” reflected Chief Usry,
“but it’s time to put family first.”
She intends to “lend a hand to
my mother, who recently lost my
father, her husband of 55 years.”
Included on her mother’s self-
proclaimed agenda are “Arts and
crafts, day trips and…computer
coding?” Chief Usry enumerates,
a bit perplexed by the last item.
Herself a newlywed, the Chief
Newlywed Julie Morton (left) is looking forward to a nightly dinner prepared by wife Kim is facing a new domestic agenda
Usry, upon Chief Usry’s retirement. PHOTO BY LINDA LOVVORN TUCKER of her own. “I’m expecting dinner
new 1/8
on the table every evening,”
quips Julie Morton, her longtime
partner, now wife. “And footrubs,
lots of footrubs,” Morton, an
oncology nurse manager at
MUSC, grins.
“Hats off to you,” proclaimed
IOP Mayor Jimmy Carroll, as he
called Chief Usry to the front of
the crowded Council Chamber.
“City Hall loves you to infinity
and beyond!” Mayor Carroll
presented Chief Usry with a
Galaxy watch, along with a
sincere “Thank You” for her 20
plus years of service to the Isle
of Palms.
“Chief Usry is the kindest,
gentlest, most law-enforcing
policewoman I know,” noted
former IOP Mayor Dick Cronin,
earnestly, continuing, “She is a
credit to the island. She is tough
but fair.”
“She spring-boarded my
career with the IOPPD,” recalls
Captain Jeffrey Swain, returning
to his native lowcountry in
2010. While serving as an officer
in the New York City Police
Department, Captain Swain
bumped into Chief Usry at his
uncle’s funeral in Charleston.
“She was in uniform; I casually
asked her if there were any
openings in the department on
the island. She’s the reason I’m
here; she helped me through the
process,” of transferring to the
IOPPD and moving back home.
Admittedly bittersweet, Chief
Usry stated, “I never imagined
being here this long. No two days
were ever the same. I couldn’t
have asked for a better place to
call home…everyone here is a
memory.”
Of her replacement, Chief
Kevin Cornett, she stated, “His
enthusiasm and energy will be a
positive thing for the department.
I’m looking forward to watching
you grow,” speaking to the
numerous officers present. “If I
had it to do over,” she concluded,
“I wouldn’t change a thing.”
May 24, 2019 5
Conservation continues from cover

the boisterous crowd and introduced

councilmembers from the City of Folly Beach
and the City of Charleston.
State Senator Chip Campsen, District
43, reminded the crowd about his recent
introduction of a budget proviso, that prohibits
the permitting of land based infrastructure
needed to support offshore drilling off the
coast of SC. Campsen championed the
proviso, which won by a landslide 40-4,
a victory that he stated, “shows not just
bipartisan support, but nearly unanimous
support.”
While budget provisos only last for one
year, Campsen assured the crowd of his
intention to seek a permanent future bill to
prevent industrialization of SC’s coast from
offshore oil.
State Senator Joe Cunningham followed
up with a rallying cry that we will fight this at
the state level, the federal level and the court
system, “to make sure there is never any oil
on our beaches here in South Carolina.”
Thanks went to Peter McCoy, Chip
Campsen, Mark Sanford, Jimmy Carroll
and Charlotte Goodwin, who sat in for her
husband Tim Goodwin, Mayor of Folly Beach.
Cunningham reiterated his campaign
promise of protecting the oceans, the beaches
for our children to enjoy. He reminded fans Activist’s messages were clear, “No oil drilling.”
of his first effort, initiated during his first
week in office, a moratorium against offshore blasting, that is detrimental to the survival postponing its plans to drill off of our coast of
drilling. In March, Cunningham introduced of marine mammals. Cunningham’s passion South Carolina. That’s a good start.”
the Coastal and Marine Economies Protection for coastal conservation was apparent in his All of the municipalities represented have
Act that calls for a permanent and complete enthusiasm, reminding the crowd how far we been outspoken against offshore drilling and
ban on offshore drilling and seismic testing have come in the last 10 years, because of seismic testing and have passed resolutions
on both the Atlantic and Pacific US coasts. this effort, which received applause from the in opposition, including Folly Beach, City of
He happily reported that it has since received crowd. Charleston, James Island, Mount Pleasant,
Republican and Democratic support. “Our efforts are being heard,” stated Kiawah Island, Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s
His efforts to protect the coast extend Cunningham, “because recently, the Island.
beyond drilling to include seismic air gun administration said it is indefinitely
6 May 24, 2019 7

EYE ON DEWEES
Making memories; building community
BY CAREY SULLIVAN
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

(left) The Dewees Island
Memory Garden established
in 2016.
(below) Dock jumping on
Dewees.
(right) Docktails prepared to
accompany an evening sunset.
M
aking memories is what life
is all about. Dewees Island
was thoughtfully designed,
by both the developer and Mother
Nature, to be a place where people
made memories. Around the island
are intentionally placed wooden
swings, encouraging “chance”
encounters with neighbors and
nature. The many docks invite
you to sit and observe or perhaps
be a more active participant and
gather with friends to enjoy a
dock jump, catch your dinner of
fish, crab, or shrimp, or enjoy an
evening cocktail while you watch
the sunset.
The memories made on Dewees
can seem like ‘once in a lifetime’ for
many people but for Deweesians,
we know these to be part of the
everyday magic of our home. From
sunrise to sunset, across the
seasons and through the years,
the memories that can be made on
Dewees will last forever. Coming
across fresh tracks from a mother
loggerhead turtle nesting, the
amazing experience of a turtle nest
hatching, catching a shark from
the ocean, watching dolphins race
the ferry or seeing an eagle soar
overhead are all memories that are
easily made on Dewees.
One of the most recent building
projects on Dewees speaks to
the importance of memory and
the richness of our community.
In 2016, after many years of
conceptualizing, planning,
and finally constructing, the
Dewees Island Memory Garden
was dedicated as a community
gathering spot to honor the
memories of Deweesians who have
passed, record the memories of
the present, and provide a spot for
many future memories to come.
This architecturally simple but
stunning structure, with hand built
oyster tabby walls, is a testament to
the true meaning of community. At
the dedication, architect Stephen
Anderson stated, “The root word
of community is ‘mun,’ meaning
‘gift,’ and by building this [Memory
Garden] we have given a gift to
those who come after us and those
who came before us.”
You don’t have to be on Dewees
to create memories or community,
but those of us who call Dewees
home have found the best of both
on our little island paradise.
Eaglet enjoying the community swing. PHOTOS BY JUDY DREW FAIRCHILD
8 May 24, 2019
First three loggerhead nests
found by new volunteers
BY MARY PRINGLE
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
I
t’s an exciting time when our
nesting sea turtles return to
nest in the dunes on the Isle
of Palms and Sullivan’s Island.
When the first two nests were laid
on Kiawah Island and Hilton Head
the last week of April, we knew
we would soon get our first one.
On the morning of May 7 there
were tracks two feet wide leading
up to a spot in between two dune
walkovers not far from the 6th
Ave. access path.
Frannie Bryan was out for
her very first turtle patrol as a
new member of the Island Turtle
Team. Along with her were Ellen
Gower and Jackie Taylor, veteran
members of the team who have
found many nests in the past.
Once we located the eggs by
probing the sand, we decided to
leave the nest where it was laid. It
was marked with the orange sign
provided by SC Department of
Natural Resources, which notifies
the public of the protection that
the eggs, hatchlings and adult
loggerheads receive by law since
they are an endangered species.
After six more nights two more
nesting loggerheads visited the
Isle of Palms in the wee hours of
the morning on May 13 laying
Nests #2 and #3. One of these was
TURTLE TEAM
again up against two of the many
sets of wooden stairs crossing the
dunes in the 600 block of Ocean
Blvd. Nest #2 was found by Elaine
PHOTO BY BARBARA BERGWERF
Schupp and Jane Solomon. Jane
was on her first day of turtle patrol.
Nest #3 found the same
morning was on the northern edge
of our patrol area in Dewees Inlet
beyond the 17th tee of the Links
Golf Course in Wild Dunes. Mary Turtle team volunteers Tee Johannes and
Michels was taking her first walk Mary Pringle inspect the first loggerhead
looking for nests just as Jane and nest on Isle of Palms at 6th Ave.
Frannie were. She was partnered
with Kristen Ayers and Christel
Cothran who have found many SEA TURTLE NESTING SEASON REMINDERS
from DNR Marine Turtle Program
nests.
None of these first three nests • Report all sick/injured/dead sea turtles and nest disturbances
was relocated and coincidentally to the SCDNR at 1.800.922.5431 so that staff/volunteers can
respond as soon as possible.
all were found by newbies on their • Respect boating laws and boat cautiously, especially in small tidal
first walk. Beginner’s luck must creeks where sea turtles like to feed. Boat strikes have emerged as
be a real thing. We are hoping to the leading cause of death for sea turtles in South Carolina.
be able to find and protect many • Keep artificial lights off the beach at night during nesting season
more nests between now at the – this includes beachfront property lights and flash photography,
end of the season in the fall. which can disorient nesting mothers and hatchlings.
• Always respect sea turtles by observing them from a distance
Mary Pringle has been the on the beach. Individuals that violate federal law by harming or
Project Leader for the Isle of Palms/ interfering with sea turtles or their nests can be subject to civil
Sullivan’s Island Turtle Team since penalties of up to $25,000 and up to a year’s imprisonment.
2000. It is one of about thirty nest • Keep our beaches and ocean clean by avoiding single-use
protection projects under the South plastics. Plastic bags and balloons are among the most common
Carolina Department of Natural trash items found on South Carolina beaches and can cause
Resources. She is also on the Sea injury or death when sea turtles mistake them for food.
• Promote and support our program for continued conservation of
Turtle Stranding and Salvage sea turtles in South Carolina.
Network.
Construction company
expands offerings
RENAISSANCE SOUTH REMODELS
K I T C H E N S A N D B AT H S
BY ANNE HARRIS
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
R
enaissance South
Construction Company
today announced they
are expanding their offerings
to include kitchen and bath
remodels in homes East of
the Cooper and downtown
Charleston.
“Many homes East of the
Cooper are at an age where their
kitchens and bathrooms are in
need of an update,” says Rob
Crawford, Renaissance South’s
president. “Although it can be
a big undertaking, a renovation
allows people to stay in a home or
a neighborhood that they love.”
Renaissance’s re-entry into
the kitchen & bath remodeling
market means homeowners
downtown and East of the Cooper
now have access to one-stop
quality design and construction
resources, without having to
build a new home, endure
prolonged architectural review
board processes or months-long
waiting lists.
“Kitchens are the heart
of family life, and a master
bathroom should be a sanctuary
where you can start your day
with energy and end with renewal
and relaxation,” Crawford says.
“These tenets are the foundation
of the culture and purpose of our
company and have always been
a focal point in our custom home
projects. Our new Kitchen and
Bath division gives homeowners
access to a custom home level
of craftsmanship for single room
renovations,” Crawford says.
Renaissance South
Construction Company, founded
in 2008 by Robert C. Crawford
III, specializes in custom home
building and transforming existing
homes into their highest, most
elegant and functional form. By
combining expert craftsmanship
with technology, comfort and
energy efficiency, the firm focuses
on building high-quality custom
homes and making thoughtful
improvements to aging buildings.
For more information visit
RenaissanceSouth.com or call
843.388.5550.
May 24, 2019
USL students excel at SCISA
Chess Tournament
L U C A S H E L F E R I C H W I N S E L E M E N TA R Y S C H O O L S TAT E C H E S S R U N N E R - U P
U
niversity School of the
Lowcountry (USL) emphasizes
“learning by doing” in its
approach to education every day for
students in third through 12th grade.
When the world is your classroom, you
go forth every week from campus to
see things for yourself.
Students from the University School
of the Lowcountry competed in the
SCISA Elementary and Middle School
State Tournament in April in Sumter
South Carolina, and the US National
Elementary Chess Championships.
Congratulations to the students who
competed in the SCISA Elementary
and Middle School State Tournament:
Marcello Crowley, Ben Flessas,
Frank Gibbes, Oakley Halpern,
Lucas Helferich, Ada Kennelly, Foster
Kennelly, and Major Manchester.
It was the third year of participation
for USL. The students had fun
and were terrific. Kudos to Lucas
Helferich of Summerville. Helferich
was the Elementary School State
Chess Runner-Up. Helferich was
undefeated, but this tournament
included a strength of opponent
factor that distinguished him from the
11
BY JENNY HIRSCH
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
Champion. Helferich also competed
in the US National Elementary Chess
Championships where he finished with
five wins & two losses, which earned
him 27th place out of 347.
USL is grateful to chess coach Stuart
Chagrin and faculty sponsor Nikki
Brockman, for creating a program that
the students enjoy while improving
their chess skills. The school also
wishes to thank to teacher Alauria
Corbin for leading the group to the
tournament with parent Joe Helferich.
University School of the Lowcountry
(USL) is a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) tax-
exempt independent school serving
students from third through 12 th
grade. USL is a non-sectarian school
for high-achieving, nice, curious
students emphasizing individualized
academics, experiential learning, and
a strong sense of community. USL
is accredited by the South Carolina
Independent School Association and
is celebrating its 12th year of serving
children and families throughout the
greater Charleston area. For more
information visit USLowcountry.org or
call 843.884.0902. Sullivan’s Island resident and USL student Ada Kennelly at the SCISA
Chess Tournament in April. PHOTO COURTESY OF USL
www.islandeyenews.com
May 24, 2019 13

150 LADIES DESCEND ON CHARLESTON FOR SECOND EVER

D O R O T H E A B E N TO N F R A N K FA N F E S T

BY JENNIFER TUOHY
THE ISLAND EYE NEWS CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

n anticipation of the release of her 20th

novel, Queen Bee, this month, Sullivan’s
Islander and New York Times bestselling
author Dorothea Benton Frank invited a
hundred or so of her biggest fans to explore
her hometown. The influx was part of the
Dorothea Benton Frank Fan Fest, an intimate
festival for a limited number of fans to get to
know their favorite author, her favorite
haunts, and the inspirations behind many of
her novels.
Events part of the multi-day festival
included a cocktail reception with Dottie at
The Mills House, a Tommy Dew’s Walking
History Tour of Charleston, a Carolina Queen
Jazz Cruise, a Savannah Bee Company Honey
Tasting & Bee Hive exhibit, and a Sunday
morning Bloodies & Biscuits Brunch, hosted
by downtown jeweler Croghan’s Jewel Box.
The biggest highlight for attendees however,
was the backyard lunch hosted by Dottie
in her historic Sullivan’s Island home. The

Pat and Marty Viser, from Charlotte NC, hold up a giant cover of Dorothea Benton Frank’s newest novel Queen Bee.
The trip to Fan Fest was a Mother’s Day present.
PHOTOS BY JENNIFER TUOHY

lunch was a true family-affair, catered by her
son-in-law, Carmine Paluso, a chef at Wild
Olive, and featuring special appearances by
her daughter, Victoria, husband, Peter, and
baby grandson, Teddy.
The Island Eye News was invited along to this
exclusive soiree on a sumptuous Lowcountry
Sunday. Guests arriving bedecked in Queen
Bee paraphernalia (necklaces, sunglasses,
and even one set of bee-themed toenails) were
greeted with Queen Bee cocktails, whipped
up by the author herself as she welcomed
fans into her Sullivan’s Island beach home.
“She just makes us feel like family,” said
Fan Fest attendee Deborah Oertell, who had
travelled here with her husband and her
daughter, Whitney, for their second Dottie
Fan Fest. “He was the one who wanted to
Firing a cannon on Fort Sumter was part of festivities
come back,” Deborah said of her husband’s
during lunch at Frank’s Sullivan’s Island home.
presence. “He said it was the best thing ever.”
As he approaches, serving us cocktails
in his Masters’ golf hat, he stands out
as one of maybe four men in the crowd of
over 150 women. Women are traditionally
Dottie’s audience, and generally those over a
certain age. “I just love how she writes older
women,” says Diane Ramey, a librarian from
Sandwich, MA. “Well I am one!” she says,
succinctly explaining Dottie’s appeal to her
core group of fans.
Frank's novels expertly capture the highs
and lows, joys and despairs of the lives of
regular women. She takes what may seem
mundane and everyday and turns it into a
bitting, witty take on human nature and the
Frank continues on page 15
14 May 24, 2019

WDMGA golf scores another hole-in-one

C H A R I T Y T O U R N A M E N T F U N D S P R O S TAT E C A N C E R R E S E A R C H

BY COLIN MCCANDLESS
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

T
hey are still tallying final numbers for the
6th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation
(PCF) charity golf tournament fundraiser
held May 11 at the Wild Dunes Links Course,
but it appears that it will nearly match if not
eclipse last year’s total of $60,000, to be used
toward funding prostate cancer research and
helping find a cure for this dreaded disease.
The event, coordinated by the Wild
Dunes Men’s Golf Association (WDMGA)
PCF committee, has now raised more than
$200,000 overall for the foundation through
the generous donations of individuals and
businesses in the Lowcountry.
There were 34 foursomes who registered for
the tournament and 220 people who attended
the dinner and live and silent auctions that
followed the golf.
The weather was beautiful and the golf
action was impressive, with the tournament
victors shooting a 49 - an astounding 21
under par - and the runners-up scoring a 57.
First and second place teams were awarded
$400 and $300 respectively, with both groups
generously donating their winnings to PCF.
Special guest Justin Moose, runner-up in
the 2018 World Long Drive Championship, Wild Dunes members Bobby and Beth Bumgardner (left) and Murray and Beth Small (right) posing with Justin Moose,
wowed tournament participants, powering runner up in the 2018 World Long-Drive Championship.
350-yard drives off a 4-foot high pole down
the middle of the fairway, and belting regular
drives of 400 yards.
For an additional donation of $100, golfers
could use Moose’s drive in lieu of their own,
or you could pay $200 to buy your way on to
the putting green.
“He was putting on a show,” remarked
WDMGA President Mike Gollobin of Moose.
“It was very entertaining.” Moose split his
long drive proceeds 50/50 with the PCF,
raising $1,600 for the cause.
Nobody won the $20,000 hole-in-one
contest, but David Jenkins came the closest
to a hole-in-one when he rimmed out a shot Winning foursome at the 6th Annual PCF charity golf tournament are (l-r) Justin Lee, Clay Hopkins, Will Greene and
on hole 8. Chris Worrell. The group generously donated their cash winnings to the fight against Prostate Cancer.
Mulligans and raffle tickets were also sold There were 60 silent auction items ranging Tommy Hartnett, a former three-term U.S.
and contributed to the money raised. from rounds of golf and beach packages to Congressman representing South Carolina’s
The live and silent auction were a smashing restaurant gift certificates, wine tastings and 1st District who also served two terms in the
success, with the most coveted item, a trip to a pub crawl. South Carolina Senate and four terms in the
play golf at Pebble Beach along California’s Featured guests at the dinner and auction South Carolina House of Representatives,
beautiful Monterrey Peninsula, selling for a entailed the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s emceed the event.
whopping $8,200. Other popular live auction Director of Golf, Sports & Special Events The WDMGA’s charity golf event committee
items included a week’s stay in a condo in Chris Conway, who provided the Pebble included Gollobin, Minton, Hartnett, WDMGA
Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, donated by Beach auction package, and MUSC Prostate chairman John Cipkala, PCF event treasurer
a Wild Dunes family, and a five-night, four- Cancer Specialist Dr. Michael B. Lilly, who Mike Driscoll, Mike Muzzy, Phil Riker, Tom
round golf package at the Sunriver Resort in shared updates on the current state of Carrato and Jim Goodwin.
Bend, Ore., supplied by Jeff Minton. prostate cancer research. Gollobin gave a special acknowledgement
to Wild Dunes Director of Golf and PCF
committee member Jeff Minton, who donates
the golf and the room at the Sweetgrass
Pavilion for the fundraiser, along with
providing dinner and lunches at a greatly
reduced cost.
“There’s no way this event could go on
without him,” stated Gollobin.
The charity tournament holds strong
significance for Minton, whose father died
of prostate cancer. His active involvement in
the PCF fundraising cause and invaluable
contributions to the event are a way for him
to honor his father’s memory.
Gollobin said the committee is optimistic
that the 7th Annual tournament will be even
better.
“We have some great ideas looking ahead
to next year to improve it,” Gollobin said.
For more information on PCF, visit PCF.org.

PHOTOS BY MIKE GOLLOBIN

9May 24, 2019 15

Frank continues from page 13

lives we all live. While older women love her novels,

they’re not her only demographic - and with Apple
Books this week lauding Queen Bee as one of its “Best
Books of May” - you’re sure to find many Dottie novels
poolside and beachside this summer.
As the guests lined up for lunch, excited to enjoy
some of the best chicken salad ever made, Dottie
walked around welcoming people and chatting, with
her grandson Teddy on her hip. Then someone let slip
that Dottie is finally coming home to Sullivan's Island
... for good.
Island Eye News went straight to the source, Dottie’s
husband, Peter Frank, for the scoop. He confirmed that
yes, they are finally making a permanent move back to
South Carolina from New Jersey, something Dottie has
been hankering after for many years. One hold-up had
been plans for restoring the beach house, which due
to its historic nature had been somewhat complicated
(“Someone thinks some soldier might have slept here
one night in the civil war and now its ‘historic’,” quips
Dottie). With approval from Town Council firmly in
hand, they will start work in July. “We’re restoring the
home, lifting it up, and moving it back [away from an
encroaching harbor],” Peter Frank said. “We’re also
raising the roof but keeping the main structure intact.”
Just then Dottie’s voice rings out across the ladies
who were lunching. “In about 5 minutes we’re going to
fire on Fort Sumter!” And true to form, a small cannon
was rolled out and shots fired across the harbor.
“We thought you were joking!” said Pat Viser, visiting
with her mother Marty, from Charlotte, N.C. “No one
would ever think this family was boring,” countered
Dottie with a wink.
Kathy Gordon, director of Brand Development at Frank’s fans enjoyed lunch with the author at her home on Sullivan’s Island.
HarperCollins and organizer of both Fan Fests (the
first was held in 2014), says that this really is a unique
event in the publishing industry.
“It’s so wonderful that the author is willing to do
Tom
Stephens
something like this and has the need to be with her
fans,” Gordon says. “Dottie likes to connect to her fans,
and lay eyes on the people who have been her fans for
so long,” she says. “This is a whole other level to a book
signing or an author talk. It’s experiential marketing.
Giving you something that’s much more valuable to
you.”
The first Fan Fest was held five years ago, and this
one launched last December with an eye to being a
great Christmas present or Mother’s Day gift for a huge
Dottie fan. “People want to be together and an event
like this is a natural draw,” says Gordon. “The special
sauce is it takes the right author and a critical mass
of books.”
Fan Fest wrapped up with a visit to Fort Moultrie
and a pool party and BBQ at Wild Dunes Resort. The
only hint of disappointment from the thrilled fans we
met during the event was that they didn’t get to see
the new book. Anticipation is high for the launch of
Dottie’s 20th novel, Queen Bee, which is set entirely on
Sullivan’s Island and publishes May 28.

www.islandeyenews.com
 May 24
ONGOING
WHAT: Black Refractions:
Highlights from The Studio
Museum in Harlem
WHERE: Gibbes Museum of Art
WHEN: May 24-Aug. 18
MORE INFO: Exhibition includes
works by Jacob Lawrence, Romare
Bearden, David Hammons, Fred
Wilson, Kerry James Marshall,
Titus Kaphar, Kehinde Wiley and
Lorna Simpson. Black Refractions
is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
to share these incredible works
of art with the Charleston
community. For information visit
GibbesMuseum.org.
WHAT: Beachfront Lights Out
WHERE: all seaward, beachfront
properties
WHEN: 9 p.m.- 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: US Fish and Wildlife
Service discourages the use of
outdoor lights when not required,
in order to protect nesting sea
turtles. When on the beach at
dark, use red filters on flashlights.
Artificial light such as flashlights
without filters and flashlights
on phones are prohibited on the
beach at night.
WHAT: Live Music at Wild
Dunes
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort
WHEN: 7-10 p.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy live
entertainment daily at Wild
Dunes Resort. Tuesday-Friday,
7-10 p.m. and Saturday &
Sunday, 1-4 p.m. outside at the
beachfront Grand Pavilion area.
Visit DestinationHotels.com/wild-
dunes/events for full schedule.
Sundays in March
WHAT: Women’s History Tour
WHERE: Joseph Manigault
House, 350 Meeting St.
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Celebrating
Women’s History Month, tour
the lives of the women at the
Joseph Manigault House. Images
and stories of the house as a
Red Cross Training Facility,
women’s dormitory, and USO
post during World War II. Free
for Charleston Museum members
and with paid admission. No
registration necessary. Visit
CharlestonMuseum.org for info.
First Monday of the Month
WHAT: Blue Plate Special
Speaker Series
WHERE: Burton’s Grill, Mt.
Pleasant
WHEN: noon
MORE INFO: East Cooper
Democrats and Progressives
regular meetings held the 1st
Monday of every month. $2/
person at the door. Attendees
order their own lunch. Attendance
limited to 40 people- first come
first served- no reservations.
Mondays
WHAT: Memoir Writing Circle  exhibition’s duration. For details
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Come and share
your stories. 843.883.3914.
 
Tuesdays
WHAT: Toddler Storytime
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy picture
books, flannel board fun, sing-a-
longs, poetry and activities that
encourage language skills. (Ages
2-3 with adult) 843.883.3914.
Thursdays
WHAT: Mah Jongg Nights
(adults)
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library, 1921 I’on Avenue.
WHEN: 5:30-8:00 p.m.
MORE INFO: Learn to play the fun
and fast-paced game of American
Mah Jongg.  Beginners welcome.
843.883.3914.
WHAT: Jazz Night
WHERE: The Refuge, IOP
WHEN: 6:30-9:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Todd Beals Trio
I s l a nd E y e C a l e nd a r
hosts jazz every Thursday night.
Traditional swing tunes, ballads
and bossa novas. Singers & horn
players welcome. For info visit
CharlestonJazz.com.
Fridays
WHAT: Board Game Afternoon
(family)
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library
WHEN: 2-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Come play with
our games or bring your own.
843.883.3914.
Third Friday of the Month
WHAT: Homeschool History Days
WHERE: Charleston Museum,
360 Meeting St.
WHEN: 10-11 a.m.
MORE INFO: A special program
for home schooling families.
These programs feature one of
our field trip classes, a chance
to go through the Museum,
and an activity. Free with paid
admission. To register visit
CharlestonMuseum.org.
Friday, May 24-June 9
WHAT: Piccolo Spoleto Outdoor
Art Exhibition
WHERE: Marion Square
WHEN: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-
Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
MORE INFO: Event showcases
the work of more than 80 premier
artists in a free, open-air venue
the entire family can enjoy. Enjoy
daily painting demonstrations
and to personally connect with
the artists who are on site for the
visit PiccoloSpoleto.com.
Saturday, May 25
WHAT: Battery2Beach Ride
WHERE: Sullivan’s Island and IOP
WHEN: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Town of
Sullivan’s Island and City of Isle
of Palms have completely installed
their segments of Charleston
Moves Battery2Beach route! We
will enjoy a slow-paced 7-mile
group ride from PARD Park
on Sullivan’s Island to Isle of
Palms, ending for lunch back on
Sullivan’s Island at Mex 1. The
restaurant is generously offering
happy hour pricing on beverages,
as well as complimentary chips
and salsa. This is a celebration of
Battery2Beach progress.
Thursday, May 30-June 2
WHAT: 2019 US Women’s Open
WHERE: Country Club of
Charleston
WHEN: daily
MORE INFO: 74th U.S. Women's
Open golf championship that will
be played May 30-June 2. Ariya
Jutanugarn will be defending
her 2018 title. For details and
schedule visit USGA.org.
Sunday, June 2
WHAT: Intro to Climbing
WHERE: Climbing Wall at James
Island County Park
WHEN: 2-2:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Expert instruction
on the basics of climbing, the
opportunity to meet and learn
with other new climbers, and
an overview of our facility. This
90-minute class will help kick off
your new adventure with a 1:9
instructor to student ratio and
small group and partner work.
Instruction takes place on both
ropes and boulders, and the class
includes gear rental. $25 for ages
14 and up. Details and register at
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Monday, June 3
WHAT: Little Groms, Beginning
Skateboard
WHERE: Sk8 Charleston
WHEN: 4-5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Little to no
experience necessary. Course
designed for participants ages
5-8 yrs. Students will be taught
the components of a skateboard,
June 4
proper safety equipment, skate begin at 5 p.m. For info visit
park etiquette, determining Charleston-SC.gov.
stance. Helmets required, pads
recommended. Equipment WHAT: Nature Trailers
available for free use during Summer Camp
scheduled lessons. $25 includes WHERE: Charleston Museum’s
park admission the day of the Dill Sanctuary
lesson and 1 pass for a return WHEN: June 3-7, 10-15 and 17-
visit. Details and register at
21, 9 a.m.-noon
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
MORE INFO: During these 5-day
camps, children aged 5-10 will
WHAT: Lunch with Dottie Frank learn about archaeology, animals,
WHERE: Hall’s Chophouse
life in a marsh, Native Americans
WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
and more. $145 for members and
MORE INFO: Enjoy three courses
$180 for non-members. For more
by Hall's executive chef Matthew info and to purchase tickets, visit
Greene, excellent company
Bit.ly/2FhkoHx.
and a copy of Dorothea Benton
Frank's newest book, Queen
Bee. Tickets are $64 and include Tuesday, June 4
lunch, a signed hardcover first
WHAT: Women’s Golf Day
edition of Queen Bee, and a
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort
priceless opportunity to meet and
WHEN: 10 a.m.
chat with Dottie. Tickets online
MORE INFO: Grab your girlfriends
at BrownPaperTickets.com/
and hit the golf course this
event/4092888.
Women’s Golf Day at Wild Dunes
Resort. Women will enjoy $75
WHAT: Mayor’s Night In
rounds on the Links Course
WHERE: Charleston City Hall after 10 a.m. and 20% off all golf
WHEN: 5-6:30 p.m. apparel at the Pro Shop. Make
MORE INFO: Held the first
a day of it and join us at the
Monday of each month, a chance
for citizens to meet with Mayor
Links Clubhouse at 4 p.m. for a
complimentary ladies-only wine
Tecklenburg one-on-one for
and cheese reception.
five minutes about any topic. Visit DestinationHotels.com/wild-
Meetings are held on a first come,
dunes/events for details.
first served basis. Registration
begins at 4:30 p.m. Meetings

your island hair salon
843-883-9101
2205 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen
Specializing in local and sustainable
seafood. All Altantic Ocean sourced
Seafood. $$-$$$
886-FISH (3474)
31 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Beard Cat’s
Gelato made from locally sourced
ingredients, and coffee shop that sits
below Obstinate Daughter. $
416-5020
beardcatsweetshop.com
2063 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Ben & Jerry’s
Enjoy an array of ice cream flavors, from
Chocolate Therapy, to Peach Cobbler on
Isle of Palms’ Front Beach. $
886-6314
benandjerrys.com
1009 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
The Boathouse
Fresh, local seafood, and phenomenal
sunset views from the upper deck on
Breach Inlet. $$-$$$
886.8000
boathouserestaurants.com
101 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Cafe Paname
Family owned and operated coffee shop
serving locally roasted coffee. $$
885-6303
www.facebook.com/cafepanameiop
1202 Palm Blvd., A, Isle of Palms
Chills 360
Dallas based shop serving Thai inspired
rolled ice cream. $
242-8469
www.chills360.com
1515 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Coconut Joe’s &
Island Joe’s Coffee
Spectacular views of the Atlantic on the
rooftop bar and live music every night
during the summer. $-$$. Island Joe’s
next door featuring coffee and ice cream.
$ morgancreekgrill.com
886-0046
coconutjoes.biz
1120 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
The Co-Op
A gourmet deli specializing in breakfast
and lunch sandwiches as well as local
coffee. Enjoy pantry staples including
beer and wine along with locally made
products and house made take and go
Bacco
off-island eats
Regional Italian restaurant featuring
fresh pastas, fior di latte mozzarella and
Neapolitan style pizzas from the wood
burning oven. $$$
843.884.6969
baccocharleston.com
976 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
Bistro Toulouse
Parisian-style nook serving seasonal,
regional French dishes with a modern
twist, plus global wines. $-$$
216-3434
bistrotoulouse.com
1220 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt Pleasant
Bon Banh Mi
Southeast Asian Cuisine, Rice Bowls,
Noodles, Sandwiches, Small Plates,
Vegetarian Options $
388-7080
banhbonmi.com
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt Pleasant
Eggs Up Grill
Relaxed chain serving a menu of
breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a
colorful setting. $-$$
island eats
meals. Open 7 days a week. Delivery
available. $
882-8088
thecoopsi.com
2019 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
The Dinghy
Laid back Key West Vibe, great food
options, unique beers on tap, spacious
side porch, and live music. $-$$
242-8310
dinghyiop.com
8 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Dunleavy’s Pub
Set in a cabin like building, this Irish
bar stages weekly live folk, country &
acoustic music. $-$$
883-9646
dunleavysonsullivans.com
2213 Middle St., Sullivan's Island
High Thyme
A small island bistro, with a wide range
of dishes, from seafood, tapas on Tuesday,
and a Sunday brunch. $$-$$$
883-3536
highthymecuisine.com
2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Home Team BBQ
Not limited to barbeque, this casual eatery
also serves salads, wraps, tacos, and
quesadillas, Sunday Brunch. $$
883-3131
hometeambbq.com
2209 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Mex1
Hip eatery serving Mexican favorites,
including tacos & tortas, with an island
vibe. Live music, outdoor seating. $$
882-8172
mex1coastalcantina.com
2205 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Morgan Creek Grill
Relax with a front row seat on the
Intracoastal Waterway while enjoying
fresh seafood and southern hospitality. $$
886-8980
8040 1st Ave, Isle of Palms
The Obstinate Daughter
Restaurant serving contemporary
Southern cuisine, pizza & pasta in a
rustic, coastal-inspired space.
$$-$$$
416-5020
theobstinatedaughter.com
2063 Middle St,Sullivan’s Island
388-3654
eggsupgrill.com
2664 Highway 17N, Mt. Pleasant
Ghost Monkey Nano Brewery
Features a consistent rotation of locally
brewed beer made in Mount Pleasant.
Taproom, live music, food. $$
843.352.3462
ghostmonkeybrewery.com
522 Wando Ln, Mt Pleasant
H&R Sweet Shop
Famous redfish and rice, fried chicken,
shrimp, bbq ribs. $
843.884.2118
102 Royall Ave, Mt Pleasant
Jack's Cosmic Dogs
Kitschy space-themed spot serving hot
dogs topped with creative condiments,
plus sides & ice cream. $
884-7677
jackscosmicdogs.com
2805 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant
Not Just Franks
Quick and tasty breakfast and lunch stand.
Egg sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, grilled
Pizza 450
Sizable pizza joint serving hefty pies and
housemade ice cream, plus breakfast &
coffee. $$
2213-B Middle St, Sullivan's Island
450pizza.com
843.789.4107
Pizza Hut
Now serving Isle of Palms in the Harris
Teeter shopping center. Deliver right to
your door or get carryout. $
886-5759
order.pizzahut.com
1515 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Poe’s Tavern
Famous for their gourmet burgers and
chicken sandwiches, this Poe-inspired
eatery also features great deals on fresh
fish tacos. $$
883-0083
longislandcafesc.com
2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Republic Ice Cream
Local ice cream shop serving homemade
ice cream and local Charleston coffee. $
republicicecream.com
2120 Middle St., Sullivans Island
Saltworks Dockside Deli
Located inside the Isle of Palms Marina
Market, come enjoy breakfast, smoothies,
and sandwiches. $-$$
883-3355
saltworkscc.com
50 41st Ave, Isle of Palms
Seabiscuit Cafe
A bright, cozy cafe with nautical touches
serving a simple menu of homestyle
breakfast & lunch. $-$$
facebook.com/seabiscuitcafeiop
21 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Sullivan’s
Grab a casual dinner of fried flounder or
crab cakes in a cozy atmosphere as well
as lunch on the weekends. $$
883-3222
saltstation22.com
2019 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Windjammer
Lively spot with a bar menu, a deck
overlooking the water, and beach volleyball
court out back.$-$$
886-8596
the-windjammer.com
1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
and deli sandwiches. $
971-8830
facebook.com/notjustfranksatace
3008 N Highway 17, Mt Pleasant
Rusty Rudder
Easygoing hangout offering American
eats such as BBQ, seafood & steak, plus a
bar & outdoor seats. $$
843.388.3177
rustyruddermtp.com
3563 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant
Sewee Restaurant
Southern-style seafood & other fried fare
in a casual joint with checkered tables &
homey decor. $$
843.928.3609
seeweerestaurantinc.com
4808 N Hwy 17, Awendaw
Stack’s Coastal Kitchen
Join us for lunch, where we offer fresh
soup, salads, and sandwiches. Enjoy
dinner in a casual bistro-style setting, nice
selection and outdoor seating. $$
843.388.6968
stackscoastalkitchen.com
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
May 24, 2019
Sullivan’s Island Bird Walk, May 4
E
arly Saturday morning,
while the island was just
starting to stir, a small
band of birding enthusiasts met
at Fort Moultrie for a weekend
walk about the fields. The event
was billed as the Sullivan’s Island
Bird Walk, led by SI resident and
highly regarded birding expert
Sarah Harper Diaz.
We set out from the parking
lot, some of us toting cameras
and tripods, some carrying
binoculars and note pads, still
others with only sunscreen,
iPhones and a healthy appetite to
discover more about SI's natural
wonders. Across Middle Street
we trudged, passing cars and
those on bikes who stared in
wonder at a conspicuous band
of urban explorers. With floppy
hats and all other manner of sun
protection, we waded across the
blacktop appearing much as we
might have crossing a dry back-
woods creek bed.
Diaz bubbled in anticipation,
“May is a great time to see a
variety of migratory birds that are
breeding on Sullivan’s Island.”
she said.
We pressed on, our purposeful
strides soon led us to the brink
of the high grass and wild
flowers of Ft. Moultrie field. We
continued our advance in search
of migrating hordes. “Summer
is Coming,” I heard one sun-
masked face remark, to nods of
agreement all around. Though,
on this morning a mild breeze
coming in off the ocean kept
things quite comfortable. Still
we persisted, acknowledging
Breac h Inlet Tide Char t
Date High Tide
May 24 12:28am/12:46pm
May 25 1:15am/1:37pm
May 26 2:05am/2:31pm
May 27 2:56am/3:24pm
May 28 3:48am/4:16pm
May 29 4:38am/5:06pm
May 30 5:27am/5:53pm
May 31 6:15am/6:39pm
Jun 1 7:01am/7:23pm
Jun 2 7:46am/8:06pm
Jun 3 8:32am/8:51pm
Jun 4 9:18am/9:37pm
Jun 5 10:07am/10:25pm
Jun 6 10:58am/11:17pm
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
BY ROB BYKO
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
that soon enough the full heat
of summer would make similar
treks slightly less bearable. We
journeyed epically onward, our
little Game of Throngs.
We bantered about each
other’s individual migrations,
which led us to Sullivan’s Island.
Discovering a few common
bonds and shared experiences
between previously anonymous
neighbors that helped to cement
fast friendships. The talk moved
easily from “Where are you from
originally?” and “Wow, you worked
at Stevarino’s Subs in Athens?”
to “How’d you get involved with
birding?” and “What’s an SC
Audubon Ambassador?”
Conversations carried on
between new friends as easily
as the movement of the tide.
A common thread among the
group…the love for nature, an
appreciation for the special
things we have and enjoy - being
Low Tide
6:42am/6:36pm
7:29am/7:28pm
8:17am/8:25pm
9:05am/9:24pm
9:53am/10:22pm
10:40am/11:16pm
11:25am
12:07am/12:10pm
12:55am/12:54pm
1:42am/1:39pm
2:28am/2:24pm
3:15am/3:11pm
4:02am/4:00pm
4:51am/4:51pm
Birding enthusiasts
on the Sullivan’s
Island Bird Walk.
PHOTO BY ROB BYKO
fortunate enough to live on SI.
There was also agreement on
our individual responsibility for
stewardship and a determination
to protect the pristine land for the
enjoyment of future generations…
of all species.
Pressing onward, we furrowed
along the nature trail, eyes
ever skyward scanning the
treetops, then back down to the
hedgerows, to the underbrush of
dense ground foliage searching
for stealthy winged migrators
and the possibility of discovering
a nest hidden in the shadows.
We intended to make our way
toward the beach, then right
along a mowed path of grass that
paralleled the coast, eventually
meandering our way back to
19
civility and “safety” of Fort
Moultrie.
Altogether, we took in an array
of wild flowers and plants of
every color, size and shape, some
edible some not. Our efforts were
also rewarded with the sighting a
variety of birds during the ninety-
minute walk, including Painted
Buntings, Brown Thrashers,
Boat-tailed Grackles, Barn
Swallows and a pair of non-
breeding Bobolinks! Diaz beamed,
“Awesome…The painted buntings
really put on a show!”
Thanks to Sarah Harper Diaz
for leading the tour, the National
Park Service and Ft Moultrie Park
Rangers for hosting the event.
Saturday’s program by NPS and
similar walks are offered up
throughout the year by the SC
Audubon Society and a variety of
local coastal conservation groups
encourage all of us to attain a
better understanding a fragile
coastal ecosystem.
We can all strive to learn more
about our environment. Perhaps
with better understanding,
we can make better ecological
choices that protect what we have
and not kill the migrating birds
that have laid this golden egg in
our laps.
One merry explorer, Sarah
VanBuren Church, summed it up
neatly for all of us, saying simply,
“Love where we live!”
2 May 24, 2019
Isle of Palms Mayor’s Message
A
nother summer is upon us
and the city is going full
force in every direction.
This past month, we hired Kevin
Cornett as our new police chief.
City Council will swear him in at
our May 28 council meeting, and
his first day on the job will be
June 3. Please come to our city
council meeting to meet Chief
Cornett and say hello. We are
happy to welcome Chief Cornett
to our City family and excited to
see him build strong community
relations and implement his
community-oriented policing
approach within the agency.
Chief Cornett started his law
enforcement career in the City
of Columbia as a police officer
in 2005, and rose through the
ranks prior to becoming the chief
of police in Springdale in 2012.
The City is faced with several
large dollar projects which we are
diligently working on through our
Ways and Means Committee. My
top priority remains improving
drainage infrastructure on the
island, however, we have other
projects that are now sharing the
top “must do” list.
Starting with the first one,
drainage, we have Thomas and
Hutton designing three drainage
outfalls, one at 41st Ave., one at
CIVIC
Jimmy Carroll.
36th Ave. and one at 31st Ave.
The estimated cost is $3.9 million.
The City remains committed at
addressing our growing drainage
related needs in phases.
The Planning Commission is
looking at strategies to make our
island more resilient. It is time
www.islandeyenews.com
for us to start using pervious
sidewalks, driveways and pool
surrounds. Doing so would
drastically help the City manage
stormwater.
Last year, we increased
expenses associated with our
drainage maintenance contract
to maintain and clean our ditches
more frequently throughout the
year. Also, SCDOT performed
significant improvements earlier
this year to assist in stormwater
management within the SCDOT
right-of-way infrastructure and
they committed to return to the
island every quarter to continue
working on these priorities.
The Public Safety Building,
built in 2009, has serious
construction deficiencies that
need to be addressed now.
Trident Construction, who built
Fire Station 1, is doing the
investigative work and testing to
identify all of the repairs needed.
The actual work will likely not
start until January 2020 and
won’t be completed until the
next fiscal year, so we are trying
to pay for the repairs without
borrowing. But, we need to be
prepared to borrow if need be.
Another “must do” project is
the marina docks, that the City is
contractually obligated to replace.
The City is pursuing the permits
now, which may take around 52
weeks for a project this large.
This is yet another project that
will cost millions. In the future,
any leases the City considers
should be triple net leases, with
the tenant being responsible
for taxes, insurance and both
ordinary and extraordinary
maintenance.
This is the first summer
with the new beach parking
regulations that requires parallel
parking on both sides of Palm
Blvd. between 21st and 40th
Aves. I recently visited other local
beaches and saw how great our
plan is working as compared to
where we were several years ago.
We still have some tweaking to
do, but beach parking is much
better organized and we have
successfully reduced the impact
on our residential areas.
Please keep up with the City’s
calendar and social media for all
of the upcoming special events
and meetings!
Jimmy Carroll, Mayor
jcarroll@iop.net
843.452.1200
9 May 24, 2019 3
CIVIC Lucky Dog Publishing
o f SC, LL C

Election results saw close count Publisher of the

The Island Eye News
N E W C O M E R S S M I T H A N D H A M M O N D S E C U R E S E AT S and The Island Connection

BY KATY CALLOWAY
THE ISLAND EYE NEWS MANAGING EDITOR

S
ullivan’s Island welcomed
two new councilmembers
on May 7 and saw one hold
on to his seat.
In what turned out to be an
uncomfortably close election,
decided by only 38% of the 1,686
registered voters on the island,
Kaye Smith topped the ballot
count at the polls by a total of
349 votes. In contrast, newcomer
Greg Hammond was trailing after
the polls closed, one vote ahead
municipal election. Out of a total
of 51 absentee ballots cast, Kaye
Smith again garnered the most
support, with 32 votes, while
Hammond secured his position
over Howard with 30 absentee
votes to Howard’s 23.
In total, the results were
as follows: Kaye Smith, 382;
Bachman Smith, 362; Greg
Hammond, 358; Rita Langley,
357 and Mark Howard, 349.
With two new councilmembers,
as we begin to see the summer
crowds trickle in. Stormwater
management will continue to be
Lynn Pierotti
a concern for the barrier island,
lynn@luckydognews.com
as is sea level rise.
publisher
Second term councilmember
Bachman Smith hopes to Katy Calloway
engage elected officials at the katy@luckydognews.com
state and federal level to help managing editor
address Sullivan’s stormwater
management issues, as well Jennifer Tuohy
as other coastal municipalities jennifer@luckydognews.com
suggesting, “If we treat stormwater contributing editor

of Mark Howard, who finished
last with 325 votes.
It was the absentee ballot
count that turned the tide for the
Sullivan’s Island may have a
fresh perspective on unresolved
issues. Parking and traffic will
be at the forefront of the agenda,
as more than a Sullivan’s Island
Swan Richards
specific issue and engage staff senior graphic designer
and elected officials from other
coastal municipalities in a Alejandro Ferreyros
cooperative manner, we can get graphic designer

the ear of the folks who make Lori McGee 843-614-0901

the regulations that are tying our
ALL CITY OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED, hands.”
advertising executive

M O N D A Y, M A Y 2 7 , M E M O R I A L D A Y The two new councilmembers Christian LeBlanc

will be sworn in at the June 18 christian@luckydognews.com
Reminder Garbage pickup schedule will be as follows: council meeting. social media
Council convenes Tuesday,
Tuesday, May 28 – Breach Inlet through 30th Ave. May 21 for its regular meeting. Gregg Bragg
Wednesday, May 29 – 30th Ave. through Wild Dunes On the agenda is the second Mimi Wood
readings of the FY 19-20 General staff writers
Attention: There will be no debris/miscellaneous pick up Fund Budget and Water and
during the week. Sewer Budget proposals. •

Remember that roll-out carts cannot be placed at the curb before CONTRIBUTORS
5 p.m. the night before collection and must be rolled back to the
CAREY SULLIVAN
house or enclosure by 9 a.m. the morning following collection.
MARY PRINGLE
ANNE HARRIS
JENNY HIRSCH
COLIN MCCANDLESS
ROB BYKO

•
PUBLISHED BY
Lucky Dog Publishing
of South Carolina, LLC
P.O. Box 837
Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
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DEADLINE:
CIVIC CALENDAR MAY 29 for our JUN. 7 issue

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Tuesday, Jun. 4 Sullivan’s Island
Monday, May 27 843.883.3198
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Memorial Day 8:30 a.m. www.sullivansisland-sc.com The Island Eye News, a wholly owned
subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of SC
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4 May 24, 2019
Chief continues from cover During her tenure with the
IOPPD, Usry introduced the
use of electronic citations to
the department, and worked
to interface those citations into
the report management system,
reducing paperwork.
“I am happy to have served all
these years,” reflected Chief Usry,
“but it’s time to put family first.”
She intends to “lend a hand to
my mother, who recently lost my
father, her husband of 55 years.”
Included on her mother’s self-
proclaimed agenda are “Arts and
crafts, day trips and…computer
coding?” Chief Usry enumerates,
a bit perplexed by the last item.
Newlywed Julie Morton (left) is looking forward to a nightly dinner prepared by wife Kim
Herself a newlywed, the Chief
Usry, upon Chief Usry’s retirement. is facing a new domestic agenda
PHOTO BY LINDA LOVVORN TUCKER
of her own. “I’m expecting dinner
on the table every evening,”
quips Julie Morton, her longtime
partner, now wife. “And footrubs,
lots of footrubs,” Morton, an
oncology nurse manager at
MUSC, grins.
“Hats off to you,” proclaimed
IOP Mayor Jimmy Carroll, as he
called Chief Usry to the front of
the crowded Council Chamber.
“City Hall loves you to infinity
and beyond!” Mayor Carroll
presented Chief Usry with a
Galaxy watch, along with a
sincere “Thank You” for her 20
plus years of service to the Isle
of Palms.
“Chief Usry is the kindest,
gentlest, most law-enforcing
policewoman I know,” noted
former IOP Mayor Dick Cronin,
earnestly, continuing, “She is a
credit to the island. She is tough
but fair.”
“She spring-boarded my
career with the IOPPD,” recalls
Captain Jeffrey Swain, returning
to his native lowcountry in
2010. While serving as an officer
in the New York City Police
Department, Captain Swain
bumped into Chief Usry at his
uncle’s funeral in Charleston.
“She was in uniform; I casually
asked her if there were any
openings in the department on
the island. She’s the reason I’m
here; she helped me through the
process,” of transferring to the
IOPPD and moving back home.
Admittedly bittersweet, Chief
Usry stated, “I never imagined
being here this long. No two days
were ever the same. I couldn’t
have asked for a better place to
call home…everyone here is a
memory.”
Of her replacement, Chief
Kevin Cornett, she stated, “His
enthusiasm and energy will be a
positive thing for the department.
I’m looking forward to watching
you grow,” speaking to the
numerous officers present. “If I
had it to do over,” she concluded,
“I wouldn’t change a thing.”
May 24, 2019 5
Conservation continues from cover

the boisterous crowd and introduced

councilmembers from the City of Folly Beach
and the City of Charleston.
State Senator Chip Campsen, District
43, reminded the crowd about his recent
introduction of a budget proviso, that prohibits
the permitting of land based infrastructure
needed to support offshore drilling off the
coast of SC. Campsen championed the
proviso, which won by a landslide 40-4,
a victory that he stated, “shows not just
bipartisan support, but nearly unanimous
support.”
While budget provisos only last for one
year, Campsen assured the crowd of his
intention to seek a permanent future bill to
prevent industrialization of SC’s coast from
offshore oil.
State Senator Joe Cunningham followed
up with a rallying cry that we will fight this at
the state level, the federal level and the court
system, “to make sure there is never any oil
on our beaches here in South Carolina.”
Thanks went to Peter McCoy, Chip
Campsen, Mark Sanford, Jimmy Carroll
and Charlotte Goodwin, who sat in for her
husband Tim Goodwin, Mayor of Folly Beach.
Cunningham reiterated his campaign
promise of protecting the oceans, the beaches
for our children to enjoy. He reminded fans Activist’s messages were clear, “No oil drilling.”
of his first effort, initiated during his first
week in office, a moratorium against offshore blasting, that is detrimental to the survival postponing its plans to drill off of our coast of
drilling. In March, Cunningham introduced of marine mammals. Cunningham’s passion South Carolina. That’s a good start.”
the Coastal and Marine Economies Protection for coastal conservation was apparent in his All of the municipalities represented have
Act that calls for a permanent and complete enthusiasm, reminding the crowd how far we been outspoken against offshore drilling and
ban on offshore drilling and seismic testing have come in the last 10 years, because of seismic testing and have passed resolutions
on both the Atlantic and Pacific US coasts. this effort, which received applause from the in opposition, including Folly Beach, City of
He happily reported that it has since received crowd. Charleston, James Island, Mount Pleasant,
Republican and Democratic support. “Our efforts are being heard,” stated Kiawah Island, Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s
His efforts to protect the coast extend Cunningham, “because recently, the Island.
beyond drilling to include seismic air gun administration said it is indefinitely
6 May 24, 2019 7

EYE ON DEWEES
Making memories; building community
BY CAREY SULLIVAN
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

(left) The Dewees Island
Memory Garden established
in 2016.
(below) Dock jumping on
Dewees.
(right) Docktails prepared to
accompany an evening sunset.
M
aking memories is what life
is all about. Dewees Island
was thoughtfully designed,
by both the developer and Mother
Nature, to be a place where people
made memories. Around the island
are intentionally placed wooden
swings, encouraging “chance”
encounters with neighbors and
nature. The many docks invite
you to sit and observe or perhaps
be a more active participant and
gather with friends to enjoy a
dock jump, catch your dinner of
fish, crab, or shrimp, or enjoy an
evening cocktail while you watch
the sunset.
The memories made on Dewees
can seem like ‘once in a lifetime’ for
many people but for Deweesians,
we know these to be part of the
everyday magic of our home. From
sunrise to sunset, across the
seasons and through the years,
the memories that can be made on
Dewees will last forever. Coming
across fresh tracks from a mother
loggerhead turtle nesting, the
amazing experience of a turtle nest
hatching, catching a shark from
the ocean, watching dolphins race
the ferry or seeing an eagle soar
overhead are all memories that are
easily made on Dewees.
One of the most recent building
projects on Dewees speaks to
the importance of memory and
the richness of our community.
In 2016, after many years of
conceptualizing, planning,
and finally constructing, the
Dewees Island Memory Garden
was dedicated as a community
gathering spot to honor the
memories of Deweesians who have
passed, record the memories of
the present, and provide a spot for
many future memories to come.
This architecturally simple but
stunning structure, with hand built
oyster tabby walls, is a testament to
the true meaning of community. At
the dedication, architect Stephen
Anderson stated, “The root word
of community is ‘mun,’ meaning
‘gift,’ and by building this [Memory
Garden] we have given a gift to
those who come after us and those
who came before us.”
You don’t have to be on Dewees
to create memories or community,
but those of us who call Dewees
home have found the best of both
on our little island paradise.
Eaglet enjoying the community swing. PHOTOS BY JUDY DREW FAIRCHILD
8 May 24, 2019
First three loggerhead nests
found by new volunteers
BY MARY PRINGLE
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
I
t’s an exciting time when our
nesting sea turtles return to
nest in the dunes on the Isle
of Palms and Sullivan’s Island.
When the first two nests were laid
on Kiawah Island and Hilton Head
the last week of April, we knew
we would soon get our first one.
On the morning of May 7 there
were tracks two feet wide leading
up to a spot in between two dune
walkovers not far from the 6th
Ave. access path.
Frannie Bryan was out for
her very first turtle patrol as a
new member of the Island Turtle
Team. Along with her were Ellen
Gower and Jackie Taylor, veteran
members of the team who have
found many nests in the past.
Once we located the eggs by
probing the sand, we decided to
leave the nest where it was laid. It
was marked with the orange sign
provided by SC Department of
Natural Resources, which notifies
the public of the protection that
the eggs, hatchlings and adult
loggerheads receive by law since
they are an endangered species.
After six more nights two more
nesting loggerheads visited the
Isle of Palms in the wee hours of
the morning on May 13 laying
Nests #2 and #3. One of these was
TURTLE TEAM
again up against two of the many
sets of wooden stairs crossing the
dunes in the 600 block of Ocean
Blvd. Nest #2 was found by Elaine
PHOTO BY BARBARA BERGWERF
Schupp and Jane Solomon. Jane
was on her first day of turtle patrol.
Nest #3 found the same
morning was on the northern edge
of our patrol area in Dewees Inlet
beyond the 17th tee of the Links
Golf Course in Wild Dunes. Mary Turtle team volunteers Tee Johannes and
Michels was taking her first walk Mary Pringle inspect the first loggerhead
looking for nests just as Jane and nest on Isle of Palms at 6th Ave.
Frannie were. She was partnered
with Kristen Ayers and Christel
Cothran who have found many SEA TURTLE NESTING SEASON REMINDERS
from DNR Marine Turtle Program
nests.
None of these first three nests • Report all sick/injured/dead sea turtles and nest disturbances
was relocated and coincidentally to the SCDNR at 1.800.922.5431 so that staff/volunteers can
respond as soon as possible.
all were found by newbies on their • Respect boating laws and boat cautiously, especially in small tidal
first walk. Beginner’s luck must creeks where sea turtles like to feed. Boat strikes have emerged as
be a real thing. We are hoping to the leading cause of death for sea turtles in South Carolina.
be able to find and protect many • Keep artificial lights off the beach at night during nesting season
more nests between now at the – this includes beachfront property lights and flash photography,
end of the season in the fall. which can disorient nesting mothers and hatchlings.
• Always respect sea turtles by observing them from a distance
Mary Pringle has been the on the beach. Individuals that violate federal law by harming or
Project Leader for the Isle of Palms/ interfering with sea turtles or their nests can be subject to civil
Sullivan’s Island Turtle Team since penalties of up to $25,000 and up to a year’s imprisonment.
2000. It is one of about thirty nest • Keep our beaches and ocean clean by avoiding single-use
protection projects under the South plastics. Plastic bags and balloons are among the most common
Carolina Department of Natural trash items found on South Carolina beaches and can cause
Resources. She is also on the Sea injury or death when sea turtles mistake them for food.
• Promote and support our program for continued conservation of
Turtle Stranding and Salvage sea turtles in South Carolina.
Network.
Construction company
expands offerings
RENAISSANCE SOUTH REMODELS
K I T C H E N S A N D B AT H S
BY ANNE HARRIS
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
R
enaissance South
Construction Company
today announced they
are expanding their offerings
to include kitchen and bath
remodels in homes East of
the Cooper and downtown
Charleston.
“Many homes East of the
Cooper are at an age where their
kitchens and bathrooms are in
need of an update,” says Rob
Crawford, Renaissance South’s
president. “Although it can be
a big undertaking, a renovation
allows people to stay in a home or
a neighborhood that they love.”
Renaissance’s re-entry into
the kitchen & bath remodeling
market means homeowners
downtown and East of the Cooper
now have access to one-stop
quality design and construction
resources, without having to
build a new home, endure
prolonged architectural review
board processes or months-long
waiting lists.
“Kitchens are the heart
of family life, and a master
bathroom should be a sanctuary
where you can start your day
with energy and end with renewal
and relaxation,” Crawford says.
“These tenets are the foundation
of the culture and purpose of our
company and have always been
a focal point in our custom home
projects. Our new Kitchen and
Bath division gives homeowners
access to a custom home level
of craftsmanship for single room
renovations,” Crawford says.
Renaissance South
Construction Company, founded
in 2008 by Robert C. Crawford
III, specializes in custom home
building and transforming existing
homes into their highest, most
elegant and functional form. By
combining expert craftsmanship
with technology, comfort and
energy efficiency, the firm focuses
on building high-quality custom
homes and making thoughtful
improvements to aging buildings.
For more information visit
RenaissanceSouth.com or call
843.388.5550.
May 24, 2019
USL students excel at SCISA
Chess Tournament
L U C A S H E L F E R I C H W I N S E L E M E N TA R Y S C H O O L S TAT E C H E S S R U N N E R - U P
U
niversity School of the
Lowcountry (USL) emphasizes
“learning by doing” in its
approach to education every day for
students in third through 12th grade.
When the world is your classroom, you
go forth every week from campus to
see things for yourself.
Students from the University School
of the Lowcountry competed in the
SCISA Elementary and Middle School
State Tournament in April in Sumter
South Carolina, and the US National
Elementary Chess Championships.
Congratulations to the students who
competed in the SCISA Elementary
and Middle School State Tournament:
Marcello Crowley, Ben Flessas,
Frank Gibbes, Oakley Halpern,
Lucas Helferich, Ada Kennelly, Foster
Kennelly, and Major Manchester.
It was the third year of participation
for USL. The students had fun
and were terrific. Kudos to Lucas
Helferich of Summerville. Helferich
was the Elementary School State
Chess Runner-Up. Helferich was
undefeated, but this tournament
included a strength of opponent
factor that distinguished him from the
11
BY JENNY HIRSCH
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
Champion. Helferich also competed
in the US National Elementary Chess
Championships where he finished with
five wins & two losses, which earned
him 27th place out of 347.
USL is grateful to chess coach Stuart
Chagrin and faculty sponsor Nikki
Brockman, for creating a program that
the students enjoy while improving
their chess skills. The school also
wishes to thank to teacher Alauria
Corbin for leading the group to the
tournament with parent Joe Helferich.
University School of the Lowcountry
(USL) is a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) tax-
exempt independent school serving
students from third through 12 th
grade. USL is a non-sectarian school
for high-achieving, nice, curious
students emphasizing individualized
academics, experiential learning, and
a strong sense of community. USL
is accredited by the South Carolina
Independent School Association and
is celebrating its 12th year of serving
children and families throughout the
greater Charleston area. For more
information visit USLowcountry.org or
call 843.884.0902. Sullivan’s Island resident and USL student Ada Kennelly at the SCISA
Chess Tournament in April. PHOTO COURTESY OF USL
www.islandeyenews.com
May 24, 2019 13

150 LADIES DESCEND ON CHARLESTON FOR SECOND EVER

D O R O T H E A B E N TO N F R A N K FA N F E S T

BY JENNIFER TUOHY
THE ISLAND EYE NEWS CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

n anticipation of the release of her 20th

novel, Queen Bee, this month, Sullivan’s
Islander and New York Times bestselling
author Dorothea Benton Frank invited a
hundred or so of her biggest fans to explore
her hometown. The influx was part of the
Dorothea Benton Frank Fan Fest, an intimate
festival for a limited number of fans to get to
know their favorite author, her favorite
haunts, and the inspirations behind many of
her novels.
Events part of the multi-day festival
included a cocktail reception with Dottie at
The Mills House, a Tommy Dew’s Walking
History Tour of Charleston, a Carolina Queen
Jazz Cruise, a Savannah Bee Company Honey
Tasting & Bee Hive exhibit, and a Sunday
morning Bloodies & Biscuits Brunch, hosted
by downtown jeweler Croghan’s Jewel Box.
The biggest highlight for attendees however,
was the backyard lunch hosted by Dottie
in her historic Sullivan’s Island home. The

Pat and Marty Viser, from Charlotte NC, hold up a giant cover of Dorothea Benton Frank’s newest novel Queen Bee.
The trip to Fan Fest was a Mother’s Day present.
PHOTOS BY JENNIFER TUOHY

lunch was a true family-affair, catered by her
son-in-law, Carmine Paluso, a chef at Wild
Olive, and featuring special appearances by
her daughter, Victoria, husband, Peter, and
baby grandson, Teddy.
The Island Eye News was invited along to this
exclusive soiree on a sumptuous Lowcountry
Sunday. Guests arriving bedecked in Queen
Bee paraphernalia (necklaces, sunglasses,
and even one set of bee-themed toenails) were
greeted with Queen Bee cocktails, whipped
up by the author herself as she welcomed
fans into her Sullivan’s Island beach home.
“She just makes us feel like family,” said
Fan Fest attendee Deborah Oertell, who had
travelled here with her husband and her
daughter, Whitney, for their second Dottie
Fan Fest. “He was the one who wanted to
Firing a cannon on Fort Sumter was part of festivities
come back,” Deborah said of her husband’s
during lunch at Frank’s Sullivan’s Island home.
presence. “He said it was the best thing ever.”
As he approaches, serving us cocktails
in his Masters’ golf hat, he stands out
as one of maybe four men in the crowd of
over 150 women. Women are traditionally
Dottie’s audience, and generally those over a
certain age. “I just love how she writes older
women,” says Diane Ramey, a librarian from
Sandwich, MA. “Well I am one!” she says,
succinctly explaining Dottie’s appeal to her
core group of fans.
Frank's novels expertly capture the highs
and lows, joys and despairs of the lives of
regular women. She takes what may seem
mundane and everyday and turns it into a
bitting, witty take on human nature and the
Frank continues on page 15
14 May 24, 2019

WDMGA golf scores another hole-in-one

C H A R I T Y T O U R N A M E N T F U N D S P R O S TAT E C A N C E R R E S E A R C H

BY COLIN MCCANDLESS
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS

T
hey are still tallying final numbers for the
6th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation
(PCF) charity golf tournament fundraiser
held May 11 at the Wild Dunes Links Course,
but it appears that it will nearly match if not
eclipse last year’s total of $60,000, to be used
toward funding prostate cancer research and
helping find a cure for this dreaded disease.
The event, coordinated by the Wild
Dunes Men’s Golf Association (WDMGA)
PCF committee, has now raised more than
$200,000 overall for the foundation through
the generous donations of individuals and
businesses in the Lowcountry.
There were 34 foursomes who registered for
the tournament and 220 people who attended
the dinner and live and silent auctions that
followed the golf.
The weather was beautiful and the golf
action was impressive, with the tournament
victors shooting a 49 - an astounding 21
under par - and the runners-up scoring a 57.
First and second place teams were awarded
$400 and $300 respectively, with both groups
generously donating their winnings to PCF.
Special guest Justin Moose, runner-up in
the 2018 World Long Drive Championship, Wild Dunes members Bobby and Beth Bumgardner (left) and Murray and Beth Small (right) posing with Justin Moose,
wowed tournament participants, powering runner up in the 2018 World Long-Drive Championship.
350-yard drives off a 4-foot high pole down
the middle of the fairway, and belting regular
drives of 400 yards.
For an additional donation of $100, golfers
could use Moose’s drive in lieu of their own,
or you could pay $200 to buy your way on to
the putting green.
“He was putting on a show,” remarked
WDMGA President Mike Gollobin of Moose.
“It was very entertaining.” Moose split his
long drive proceeds 50/50 with the PCF,
raising $1,600 for the cause.
Nobody won the $20,000 hole-in-one
contest, but David Jenkins came the closest
to a hole-in-one when he rimmed out a shot Winning foursome at the 6th Annual PCF charity golf tournament are (l-r) Justin Lee, Clay Hopkins, Will Greene and
on hole 8. Chris Worrell. The group generously donated their cash winnings to the fight against Prostate Cancer.
Mulligans and raffle tickets were also sold There were 60 silent auction items ranging Tommy Hartnett, a former three-term U.S.
and contributed to the money raised. from rounds of golf and beach packages to Congressman representing South Carolina’s
The live and silent auction were a smashing restaurant gift certificates, wine tastings and 1st District who also served two terms in the
success, with the most coveted item, a trip to a pub crawl. South Carolina Senate and four terms in the
play golf at Pebble Beach along California’s Featured guests at the dinner and auction South Carolina House of Representatives,
beautiful Monterrey Peninsula, selling for a entailed the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s emceed the event.
whopping $8,200. Other popular live auction Director of Golf, Sports & Special Events The WDMGA’s charity golf event committee
items included a week’s stay in a condo in Chris Conway, who provided the Pebble included Gollobin, Minton, Hartnett, WDMGA
Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, donated by Beach auction package, and MUSC Prostate chairman John Cipkala, PCF event treasurer
a Wild Dunes family, and a five-night, four- Cancer Specialist Dr. Michael B. Lilly, who Mike Driscoll, Mike Muzzy, Phil Riker, Tom
round golf package at the Sunriver Resort in shared updates on the current state of Carrato and Jim Goodwin.
Bend, Ore., supplied by Jeff Minton. prostate cancer research. Gollobin gave a special acknowledgement
to Wild Dunes Director of Golf and PCF
committee member Jeff Minton, who donates
the golf and the room at the Sweetgrass
Pavilion for the fundraiser, along with
providing dinner and lunches at a greatly
reduced cost.
“There’s no way this event could go on
without him,” stated Gollobin.
The charity tournament holds strong
significance for Minton, whose father died
of prostate cancer. His active involvement in
the PCF fundraising cause and invaluable
contributions to the event are a way for him
to honor his father’s memory.
Gollobin said the committee is optimistic
that the 7th Annual tournament will be even
better.
“We have some great ideas looking ahead
to next year to improve it,” Gollobin said.
For more information on PCF, visit PCF.org.

PHOTOS BY MIKE GOLLOBIN

9May 24, 2019 15

Frank continues from page 13

lives we all live. While older women love her novels,

they’re not her only demographic - and with Apple
Books this week lauding Queen Bee as one of its “Best
Books of May” - you’re sure to find many Dottie novels
poolside and beachside this summer.
As the guests lined up for lunch, excited to enjoy
some of the best chicken salad ever made, Dottie
walked around welcoming people and chatting, with
her grandson Teddy on her hip. Then someone let slip
that Dottie is finally coming home to Sullivan's Island
... for good.
Island Eye News went straight to the source, Dottie’s
husband, Peter Frank, for the scoop. He confirmed that
yes, they are finally making a permanent move back to
South Carolina from New Jersey, something Dottie has
been hankering after for many years. One hold-up had
been plans for restoring the beach house, which due
to its historic nature had been somewhat complicated
(“Someone thinks some soldier might have slept here
one night in the civil war and now its ‘historic’,” quips
Dottie). With approval from Town Council firmly in
hand, they will start work in July. “We’re restoring the
home, lifting it up, and moving it back [away from an
encroaching harbor],” Peter Frank said. “We’re also
raising the roof but keeping the main structure intact.”
Just then Dottie’s voice rings out across the ladies
who were lunching. “In about 5 minutes we’re going to
fire on Fort Sumter!” And true to form, a small cannon
was rolled out and shots fired across the harbor.
“We thought you were joking!” said Pat Viser, visiting
with her mother Marty, from Charlotte, N.C. “No one
would ever think this family was boring,” countered
Dottie with a wink.
Kathy Gordon, director of Brand Development at Frank’s fans enjoyed lunch with the author at her home on Sullivan’s Island.
HarperCollins and organizer of both Fan Fests (the
first was held in 2014), says that this really is a unique
event in the publishing industry.
“It’s so wonderful that the author is willing to do
something like this and has the need to be with her
fans,” Gordon says. “Dottie likes to connect to her fans,
and lay eyes on the people who have been her fans for
so long,” she says. “This is a whole other level to a book
signing or an author talk. It’s experiential marketing.
Giving you something that’s much more valuable to
you.”
The first Fan Fest was held five years ago, and this
one launched last December with an eye to being a
great Christmas present or Mother’s Day gift for a huge
Dottie fan. “People want to be together and an event
like this is a natural draw,” says Gordon. “The special
sauce is it takes the right author and a critical mass
of books.”
Fan Fest wrapped up with a visit to Fort Moultrie
and a pool party and BBQ at Wild Dunes Resort. The
only hint of disappointment from the thrilled fans we
met during the event was that they didn’t get to see
the new book. Anticipation is high for the launch of
Dottie’s 20th novel, Queen Bee, which is set entirely on
Sullivan’s Island and publishes May 28.

www.islandeyenews.com
 May 24
ONGOING
WHAT: Black Refractions:
Highlights from The Studio
Museum in Harlem
WHERE: Gibbes Museum of Art
WHEN: May 24-Aug. 18
MORE INFO: Exhibition includes
works by Jacob Lawrence, Romare
Bearden, David Hammons, Fred
Wilson, Kerry James Marshall,
Titus Kaphar, Kehinde Wiley and
Lorna Simpson. Black Refractions
is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
to share these incredible works
of art with the Charleston
community. For information visit
GibbesMuseum.org.
WHAT: Beachfront Lights Out
WHERE: all seaward, beachfront
properties
WHEN: 9 p.m.- 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: US Fish and Wildlife
Service discourages the use of
outdoor lights when not required,
in order to protect nesting sea
turtles. When on the beach at
dark, use red filters on flashlights.
Artificial light such as flashlights
without filters and flashlights
on phones are prohibited on the
beach at night.
WHAT: Live Music at Wild
Dunes
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort
WHEN: 7-10 p.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy live
entertainment daily at Wild
Dunes Resort. Tuesday-Friday,
7-10 p.m. and Saturday &
Sunday, 1-4 p.m. outside at the
beachfront Grand Pavilion area.
Visit DestinationHotels.com/wild-
dunes/events for full schedule.
Sundays in March
WHAT: Women’s History Tour
WHERE: Joseph Manigault
House, 350 Meeting St.
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Celebrating
Women’s History Month, tour
the lives of the women at the
Joseph Manigault House. Images
and stories of the house as a
Red Cross Training Facility,
women’s dormitory, and USO
post during World War II. Free
for Charleston Museum members
and with paid admission. No
registration necessary. Visit
CharlestonMuseum.org for info.
First Monday of the Month
WHAT: Blue Plate Special
Speaker Series
WHERE: Burton’s Grill, Mt.
Pleasant
WHEN: noon
MORE INFO: East Cooper
Democrats and Progressives
regular meetings held the 1st
Monday of every month. $2/
person at the door. Attendees
order their own lunch. Attendance
limited to 40 people- first come
first served- no reservations.
Mondays
WHAT: Memoir Writing Circle  exhibition’s duration. For details
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Come and share
your stories. 843.883.3914.
 
Tuesdays
WHAT: Toddler Storytime
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy picture
books, flannel board fun, sing-a-
longs, poetry and activities that
encourage language skills. (Ages
2-3 with adult) 843.883.3914.
Thursdays
WHAT: Mah Jongg Nights
(adults)
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library, 1921 I’on Avenue.
WHEN: 5:30-8:00 p.m.
MORE INFO: Learn to play the fun
and fast-paced game of American
Mah Jongg.  Beginners welcome.
843.883.3914.
WHAT: Jazz Night
WHERE: The Refuge, IOP
WHEN: 6:30-9:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Todd Beals Trio
I s l a nd E y e C a l e nd a r
hosts jazz every Thursday night.
Traditional swing tunes, ballads
and bossa novas. Singers & horn
players welcome. For info visit
CharlestonJazz.com.
Fridays
WHAT: Board Game Afternoon
(family)
WHERE: CCPL Poe Branch
Library
WHEN: 2-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Come play with
our games or bring your own.
843.883.3914.
Third Friday of the Month
WHAT: Homeschool History Days
WHERE: Charleston Museum,
360 Meeting St.
WHEN: 10-11 a.m.
MORE INFO: A special program
for home schooling families.
These programs feature one of
our field trip classes, a chance
to go through the Museum,
and an activity. Free with paid
admission. To register visit
CharlestonMuseum.org.
Friday, May 24-June 9
WHAT: Piccolo Spoleto Outdoor
Art Exhibition
WHERE: Marion Square
WHEN: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-
Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sun.
MORE INFO: Event showcases
the work of more than 80 premier
artists in a free, open-air venue
the entire family can enjoy. Enjoy
daily painting demonstrations
and to personally connect with
the artists who are on site for the
visit PiccoloSpoleto.com.
Saturday, May 25
WHAT: Battery2Beach Ride
WHERE: Sullivan’s Island and IOP
WHEN: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Town of
Sullivan’s Island and City of Isle
of Palms have completely installed
their segments of Charleston
Moves Battery2Beach route! We
will enjoy a slow-paced 7-mile
group ride from PARD Park
on Sullivan’s Island to Isle of
Palms, ending for lunch back on
Sullivan’s Island at Mex 1. The
restaurant is generously offering
happy hour pricing on beverages,
as well as complimentary chips
and salsa. This is a celebration of
Battery2Beach progress.
Thursday, May 30-June 2
WHAT: 2019 US Women’s Open
WHERE: Country Club of
Charleston
WHEN: daily
MORE INFO: 74th U.S. Women's
Open golf championship that will
be played May 30-June 2. Ariya
Jutanugarn will be defending
her 2018 title. For details and
schedule visit USGA.org.
Sunday, June 2
WHAT: Intro to Climbing
WHERE: Climbing Wall at James
Island County Park
WHEN: 2-2:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Expert instruction
on the basics of climbing, the
opportunity to meet and learn
with other new climbers, and
an overview of our facility. This
90-minute class will help kick off
your new adventure with a 1:9
instructor to student ratio and
small group and partner work.
Instruction takes place on both
ropes and boulders, and the class
includes gear rental. $25 for ages
14 and up. Details and register at
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Monday, June 3
WHAT: Little Groms, Beginning
Skateboard
WHERE: Sk8 Charleston
WHEN: 4-5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Little to no
experience necessary. Course
designed for participants ages
5-8 yrs. Students will be taught
the components of a skateboard,
June 4
proper safety equipment, skate begin at 5 p.m. For info visit
park etiquette, determining Charleston-SC.gov.
stance. Helmets required, pads
recommended. Equipment WHAT: Nature Trailers
available for free use during Summer Camp
scheduled lessons. $25 includes WHERE: Charleston Museum’s
park admission the day of the Dill Sanctuary
lesson and 1 pass for a return WHEN: June 3-7, 10-15 and 17-
visit. Details and register at
21, 9 a.m.-noon
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
MORE INFO: During these 5-day
camps, children aged 5-10 will
WHAT: Lunch with Dottie Frank learn about archaeology, animals,
WHERE: Hall’s Chophouse
life in a marsh, Native Americans
WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
and more. $145 for members and
MORE INFO: Enjoy three courses
$180 for non-members. For more
by Hall's executive chef Matthew info and to purchase tickets, visit
Greene, excellent company
Bit.ly/2FhkoHx.
and a copy of Dorothea Benton
Frank's newest book, Queen
Bee. Tickets are $64 and include Tuesday, June 4
lunch, a signed hardcover first
WHAT: Women’s Golf Day
edition of Queen Bee, and a
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort
priceless opportunity to meet and
WHEN: 10 a.m.
chat with Dottie. Tickets online
MORE INFO: Grab your girlfriends
at BrownPaperTickets.com/
and hit the golf course this
event/4092888.
Women’s Golf Day at Wild Dunes
Resort. Women will enjoy $75
WHAT: Mayor’s Night In
rounds on the Links Course
WHERE: Charleston City Hall after 10 a.m. and 20% off all golf
WHEN: 5-6:30 p.m. apparel at the Pro Shop. Make
MORE INFO: Held the first
a day of it and join us at the
Monday of each month, a chance
for citizens to meet with Mayor
Links Clubhouse at 4 p.m. for a
complimentary ladies-only wine
Tecklenburg one-on-one for
and cheese reception.
five minutes about any topic. Visit DestinationHotels.com/wild-
Meetings are held on a first come,
dunes/events for details.
first served basis. Registration
begins at 4:30 p.m. Meetings

your island hair salon
843-883-9101
2205 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen
Specializing in local and sustainable
seafood. All Altantic Ocean sourced
Seafood. $$-$$$
886-FISH (3474)
31 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Beard Cat’s
Gelato made from locally sourced
ingredients, and coffee shop that sits
below Obstinate Daughter. $
416-5020
beardcatsweetshop.com
2063 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Ben & Jerry’s
Enjoy an array of ice cream flavors, from
Chocolate Therapy, to Peach Cobbler on
Isle of Palms’ Front Beach. $
886-6314
benandjerrys.com
1009 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
The Boathouse
Fresh, local seafood, and phenomenal
sunset views from the upper deck on
Breach Inlet. $$-$$$
886.8000
boathouserestaurants.com
101 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Cafe Paname
Family owned and operated coffee shop
serving locally roasted coffee. $$
885-6303
www.facebook.com/cafepanameiop
1202 Palm Blvd., A, Isle of Palms
Chills 360
Dallas based shop serving Thai inspired
rolled ice cream. $
242-8469
www.chills360.com
1515 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Coconut Joe’s &
Island Joe’s Coffee
Spectacular views of the Atlantic on the
rooftop bar and live music every night
during the summer. $-$$. Island Joe’s
next door featuring coffee and ice cream.
$ morgancreekgrill.com
886-0046
coconutjoes.biz
1120 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
The Co-Op
A gourmet deli specializing in breakfast
and lunch sandwiches as well as local
coffee. Enjoy pantry staples including
beer and wine along with locally made
products and house made take and go
Bacco
off-island eats
Regional Italian restaurant featuring
fresh pastas, fior di latte mozzarella and
Neapolitan style pizzas from the wood
burning oven. $$$
843.884.6969
baccocharleston.com
976 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
Bistro Toulouse
Parisian-style nook serving seasonal,
regional French dishes with a modern
twist, plus global wines. $-$$
216-3434
bistrotoulouse.com
1220 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt Pleasant
Bon Banh Mi
Southeast Asian Cuisine, Rice Bowls,
Noodles, Sandwiches, Small Plates,
Vegetarian Options $
388-7080
banhbonmi.com
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt Pleasant
Eggs Up Grill
Relaxed chain serving a menu of
breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a
colorful setting. $-$$
island eats
meals. Open 7 days a week. Delivery
available. $
882-8088
thecoopsi.com
2019 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
The Dinghy
Laid back Key West Vibe, great food
options, unique beers on tap, spacious
side porch, and live music. $-$$
242-8310
dinghyiop.com
8 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Dunleavy’s Pub
Set in a cabin like building, this Irish
bar stages weekly live folk, country &
acoustic music. $-$$
883-9646
dunleavysonsullivans.com
2213 Middle St., Sullivan's Island
High Thyme
A small island bistro, with a wide range
of dishes, from seafood, tapas on Tuesday,
and a Sunday brunch. $$-$$$
883-3536
highthymecuisine.com
2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Home Team BBQ
Not limited to barbeque, this casual eatery
also serves salads, wraps, tacos, and
quesadillas, Sunday Brunch. $$
883-3131
hometeambbq.com
2209 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Mex1
Hip eatery serving Mexican favorites,
including tacos & tortas, with an island
vibe. Live music, outdoor seating. $$
882-8172
mex1coastalcantina.com
2205 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Morgan Creek Grill
Relax with a front row seat on the
Intracoastal Waterway while enjoying
fresh seafood and southern hospitality. $$
886-8980
8040 1st Ave, Isle of Palms
The Obstinate Daughter
Restaurant serving contemporary
Southern cuisine, pizza & pasta in a
rustic, coastal-inspired space.
$$-$$$
416-5020
theobstinatedaughter.com
2063 Middle St,Sullivan’s Island
388-3654
eggsupgrill.com
2664 Highway 17N, Mt. Pleasant
Ghost Monkey Nano Brewery
Features a consistent rotation of locally
brewed beer made in Mount Pleasant.
Taproom, live music, food. $$
843.352.3462
ghostmonkeybrewery.com
522 Wando Ln, Mt Pleasant
H&R Sweet Shop
Famous redfish and rice, fried chicken,
shrimp, bbq ribs. $
843.884.2118
102 Royall Ave, Mt Pleasant
Jack's Cosmic Dogs
Kitschy space-themed spot serving hot
dogs topped with creative condiments,
plus sides & ice cream. $
884-7677
jackscosmicdogs.com
2805 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant
Not Just Franks
Quick and tasty breakfast and lunch stand.
Egg sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, grilled
Pizza 450
Sizable pizza joint serving hefty pies and
housemade ice cream, plus breakfast &
coffee. $$
2213-B Middle St, Sullivan's Island
450pizza.com
843.789.4107
Pizza Hut
Now serving Isle of Palms in the Harris
Teeter shopping center. Deliver right to
your door or get carryout. $
886-5759
order.pizzahut.com
1515 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms
Poe’s Tavern
Famous for their gourmet burgers and
chicken sandwiches, this Poe-inspired
eatery also features great deals on fresh
fish tacos. $$
883-0083
longislandcafesc.com
2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Republic Ice Cream
Local ice cream shop serving homemade
ice cream and local Charleston coffee. $
republicicecream.com
2120 Middle St., Sullivans Island
Saltworks Dockside Deli
Located inside the Isle of Palms Marina
Market, come enjoy breakfast, smoothies,
and sandwiches. $-$$
883-3355
saltworkscc.com
50 41st Ave, Isle of Palms
Seabiscuit Cafe
A bright, cozy cafe with nautical touches
serving a simple menu of homestyle
breakfast & lunch. $-$$
facebook.com/seabiscuitcafeiop
21 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
Sullivan’s
Grab a casual dinner of fried flounder or
crab cakes in a cozy atmosphere as well
as lunch on the weekends. $$
883-3222
saltstation22.com
2019 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Windjammer
Lively spot with a bar menu, a deck
overlooking the water, and beach volleyball
court out back.$-$$
886-8596
the-windjammer.com
1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
and deli sandwiches. $
971-8830
facebook.com/notjustfranksatace
3008 N Highway 17, Mt Pleasant
Rusty Rudder
Easygoing hangout offering American
eats such as BBQ, seafood & steak, plus a
bar & outdoor seats. $$
843.388.3177
rustyruddermtp.com
3563 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant
Sewee Restaurant
Southern-style seafood & other fried fare
in a casual joint with checkered tables &
homey decor. $$
843.928.3609
seeweerestaurantinc.com
4808 N Hwy 17, Awendaw
Stack’s Coastal Kitchen
Join us for lunch, where we offer fresh
soup, salads, and sandwiches. Enjoy
dinner in a casual bistro-style setting, nice
selection and outdoor seating. $$
843.388.6968
stackscoastalkitchen.com
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
May 24, 2019
Sullivan’s Island Bird Walk, May 4
E
arly Saturday morning,
while the island was just
starting to stir, a small
band of birding enthusiasts met
at Fort Moultrie for a weekend
walk about the fields. The event
was billed as the Sullivan’s Island
Bird Walk, led by SI resident and
highly regarded birding expert
Sarah Harper Diaz.
We set out from the parking
lot, some of us toting cameras
and tripods, some carrying
binoculars and note pads, still
others with only sunscreen,
iPhones and a healthy appetite to
discover more about SI's natural
wonders. Across Middle Street
we trudged, passing cars and
those on bikes who stared in
wonder at a conspicuous band
of urban explorers. With floppy
hats and all other manner of sun
protection, we waded across the
blacktop appearing much as we
might have crossing a dry back-
woods creek bed.
Diaz bubbled in anticipation,
“May is a great time to see a
variety of migratory birds that are
breeding on Sullivan’s Island.”
she said.
We pressed on, our purposeful
strides soon led us to the brink
of the high grass and wild
flowers of Ft. Moultrie field. We
continued our advance in search
of migrating hordes. “Summer
is Coming,” I heard one sun-
masked face remark, to nods of
agreement all around. Though,
on this morning a mild breeze
coming in off the ocean kept
things quite comfortable. Still
we persisted, acknowledging
Breac h Inlet Tide Char t
Date High Tide
May 24 12:28am/12:46pm
May 25 1:15am/1:37pm
May 26 2:05am/2:31pm
May 27 2:56am/3:24pm
May 28 3:48am/4:16pm
May 29 4:38am/5:06pm
May 30 5:27am/5:53pm
May 31 6:15am/6:39pm
Jun 1 7:01am/7:23pm
Jun 2 7:46am/8:06pm
Jun 3 8:32am/8:51pm
Jun 4 9:18am/9:37pm
Jun 5 10:07am/10:25pm
Jun 6 10:58am/11:17pm
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
BY ROB BYKO
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
that soon enough the full heat
of summer would make similar
treks slightly less bearable. We
journeyed epically onward, our
little Game of Throngs.
We bantered about each
other’s individual migrations,
which led us to Sullivan’s Island.
Discovering a few common
bonds and shared experiences
between previously anonymous
neighbors that helped to cement
fast friendships. The talk moved
easily from “Where are you from
originally?” and “Wow, you worked
at Stevarino’s Subs in Athens?”
to “How’d you get involved with
birding?” and “What’s an SC
Audubon Ambassador?”
Conversations carried on
between new friends as easily
as the movement of the tide.
A common thread among the
group…the love for nature, an
appreciation for the special
things we have and enjoy - being
Low Tide
6:42am/6:36pm
7:29am/7:28pm
8:17am/8:25pm
9:05am/9:24pm
9:53am/10:22pm
10:40am/11:16pm
11:25am
12:07am/12:10pm
12:55am/12:54pm
1:42am/1:39pm
2:28am/2:24pm
3:15am/3:11pm
4:02am/4:00pm
4:51am/4:51pm
Birding enthusiasts
on the Sullivan’s
Island Bird Walk.
PHOTO BY ROB BYKO
fortunate enough to live on SI.
There was also agreement on
our individual responsibility for
stewardship and a determination
to protect the pristine land for the
enjoyment of future generations…
of all species.
Pressing onward, we furrowed
along the nature trail, eyes
ever skyward scanning the
treetops, then back down to the
hedgerows, to the underbrush of
dense ground foliage searching
for stealthy winged migrators
and the possibility of discovering
a nest hidden in the shadows.
We intended to make our way
toward the beach, then right
along a mowed path of grass that
paralleled the coast, eventually
meandering our way back to
19
civility and “safety” of Fort
Moultrie.
Altogether, we took in an array
of wild flowers and plants of
every color, size and shape, some
edible some not. Our efforts were
also rewarded with the sighting a
variety of birds during the ninety-
minute walk, including Painted
Buntings, Brown Thrashers,
Boat-tailed Grackles, Barn
Swallows and a pair of non-
breeding Bobolinks! Diaz beamed,
“Awesome…The painted buntings
really put on a show!”
Thanks to Sarah Harper Diaz
for leading the tour, the National
Park Service and Ft Moultrie Park
Rangers for hosting the event.
Saturday’s program by NPS and
similar walks are offered up
throughout the year by the SC
Audubon Society and a variety of
local coastal conservation groups
encourage all of us to attain a
better understanding a fragile
coastal ecosystem.
We can all strive to learn more
about our environment. Perhaps
with better understanding,
we can make better ecological
choices that protect what we have
and not kill the migrating birds
that have laid this golden egg in
our laps.
One merry explorer, Sarah
VanBuren Church, summed it up
neatly for all of us, saying simply,
“Love where we live!”