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Volume 15 Issue 13 FREE October 11, 2019

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

Q&A with
candidates for
IOP Council
BY LAURA FOGARTY
ISLAND EYE NEWS MANAGING EDITOR

T
hanks to a wonderful response from our
readers, we are happy to be able to present
the questions we asked the five candidates
vying for seats on the Isle of Palms City Council.
Below are the second three in a series of six
questions (compiled to represent the most citizens’
input as possible). The candidates’ answers are
reprinted unedited and in their entirety. To see the
first three questions visit islandeyenews.com.
1. Are you in favor or opposed to the
following ordinances: a) New Standards
for Dilapidated Structures and b) Ban on
Smoking at the Beach? 
2. Are you in favor of the parallel parking
only rule on Palm Blvd. between 22nd and
40th Ave or would like to see the return
of perpendicular parking only on the
non-beach side between 22nd and 40th
Avenues?
3. How is the City doing financially? How
would you propose to amend the budget to
make the City more fiscally responsible, if
necessary?

Jimmy Ward
1. a. I am for working on a reasonable approach
to new standards for dilapidated structures on
the island, the key phrase being “a reasonable
approach”. It is important to protect neighbors’
H OT TOPICS
at the Farmers’ Market
properties from nuisance properties. The ordinance
must be crafted very carefully. However, I am
strongly against any ordinance that is remotely
similar to a HOA. I do not want a HOA.
b. This is a very divisive issue. I would prefer STAFF REPORT
city council work on projects that bring us FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS
together such as drainage, the marina restaurant

and addressing other infrastructure issues rather
than issues that tear us apart. I am not in favor
of another ban that is unenforceable. We already
have a law against littering.
2. The current parking plan along Palm Blvd
seems to be working fairly well so I would like to
keep in place for at least another beach season.
However, I am always open to looking at changes
to our parking plan that is in the best interests of
our residents.
T
he Isle of Palms Fire Department stopped by the Rec Center
during a recent Farmers’ Market to show off their fire trucks
and talk about fire safety. Residents were able to ask questions,
tour trucks and spend time with our local fire fighters. Battalion
Chief Smith welcomes questions and encourages Island residents
to be safe.
The Fire Chief can be reached at 843.901.9089

Candidates continues on page 4 PHOTOS BY CHRIS PUCKHABER

3 DIFFERENT TURTLE HAPPY

VISIONS SEASON ENDS 100
page 13 page 14 page 19
www.islandeyenews.com
2 October 11, 2019
CIVIC
Sullivan’s Island Mayor’s Message
Dear Island Neighbors,
First, a few quick items, and then a recap of Hurricane Dorian.
MUST-SEE TV
Or maybe not. But you no longer have an excuse for not observing
the meetings of Town Council and our Committees. With our new
website (https://sullivansisland.sc.gov)  we now can live-stream
them and archive them for later down-loading.   on Middle Street and others surviving near-hits, asks me to ask you
Please go to the Town’s website page for meetings bit.ly/2OlFAlQ,or
from the home page dropdown, choose Government > Meetings and
Agendas) to look for your meeting of interest; if there is a camera
icon, click on that and go to the video feed. You might have to click on
the feed twice to get it to run for you. After it’s going, you can use the
full-screen double-arrow icon to open the video window further, and
then do what your computer requires to zoom in more on the video
itself. We apologize for the current audio quality and are working to
improve that.
TREE TRIMMING BY DOMINATION…UHH…DOMINION ENERGY
As have residents of most of our neighboring cities, we have seen
quite a bit of tree-cutting by Lewis Tree Service, the contractors of
Dominion Energy. This is a long and complicated story, but suffice it
to say that the company and its contractors are supposed to follow
two sets of standards, one designed to protect the power lines and
the other to protect the trees. The result has been hard for a number
of us to accept quietly. Be assured that the Town leadership (elected
and staff) did meet several times with representatives of Dominion
and Lewis, as did leaders of our neighboring communities, to try to
ensure that the cutting respected our environment. However, when
it comes to trees rooted or growing in the state-owned rights of way
in which our electricity comes to us, local government has little say.
It’s an area of law largely governed by the South Carolina Public
Utility Commission. Here's a link to their complaint page: http://bit.
ly/2VanCEo.
“Why not go underground?” asks almost everyone. Town Council
will have a representative of Dominion Energy meet with us to discuss
the pros, cons and costs of underground wiring. And the costs of
www.islandeyenews.com
finding out what the costs are.  They will join us at our Regular Town
Council meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 19. This is an open meeting that
starts at 6 p.m. at Town Hall. Stay tuned via the Twitter and email
routes noted below for a reminder.
PLEASE KEEP YOUR DOGS OUT OF THE STREET
A long-time resident who has recently seen one dog hit by a vehicle
to do this:
Please keep your dog on leash to prevent him/her from dashing
into harm’s way in chasing the latest tempting squirrel. These pet vs.
vehicle events can cause a lot of grief for pets and people. If you own
a dog, you can help prevent them, by keeping Fido under control.
FIRE CHIEF ANTHONY STITH REMINDS US…
…that this is Fire Prevention Week. Here is important information
to help you and yours stay safe: nfpa.org/fpw.
HURRICANE FOLLOW-UP
Hurricane Dorian seems longer ago than the calendar indicates…
except for the overturned oaks in my backyard waiting to be lifted
back into place. Again. (See: Hurricane Matthew) Maybe I should get
some big hinges for them.
But on a serious note… You will never know what a smart, dedicated
and well-trained Town staff we have until you spend a hurricane with
them (including runup, event and aftermath). Which I was privileged
to do for Dorian last month. 
You may recall Dorian’s slow and uncertain approach. Someone
likened it to “being stalked by a turtle.” All told, Dorian required about
10 days of preparation, stand-by and clean-up by staff, with daily
conference calls with the Tri-County Emergency Operations team.
During that time, staff members were often away from their families
and home for days at a time, or on station to protect and serve the
Island for 12 to 18 consecutive hours. Not that this restores those
hours to our employees and their families, but you should know that
staff keeps scrupulous time records so we can get reimbursed by
FEMA for these and other storm-related expenses. Final numbers are
not in but they will be well north of $60,000. 
This is the fifth year that it has been necessary to go through the
weather emergency drill. Our great Town employees and volunteers
in all departments know their responsibilities and perform them well
during these times.  
It was reassuring to hear from other governmental officials who
contacted us to ascertain our needs. Thanks to Governor Henry
McMaster, Congressman Joe Cunningham, State Senator Chip
Campsen, State Representative Mike Sottile, and Charleston County
Council Chair Elliot Summey. (In fact, County Council Chair Summey
made a midnight visit to Town Hall during the storm.) 
Our storm-related debris was very expeditiously picked up by
contractors working for Charleston County.  While the Island, as
a whole, was fortunate to experience very limited damage, FEMA
estimates that approximately 14,500 cubic yards of organic material
were collected here (Enough to fill 4 and a half Olympic swimming
pools). The contractor accomplished the work in just about 2 weeks.
As with every hurricane, we should note the lessons it taught, and
at the same time avoid thinking that the next hurricane situation
will bear any resemblance to the last one. Please review with your
family what y’all did that was right, and what could have been done
differently, so you can update your hurricane plans. 
Here are a few suggestions that I have seen validated in all of our
recent hurricane situations:
As above, you and your family should review and update your
hurricane plan. And if you don’t have a plan, please make one, now.
Please do not dismiss emergency officials’ warnings based on what
happened during the last storm.
Please rely on valid sources of information related to the storm
when making decisions. Governmental offerings such as the NOAA
National Weather Service National Hurricane Center should be your
primary source for information about the current and predicted
characteristics and threat of a storm. Responsible cable channels
such as the Weather Channel are right up there as well, as are our
local TV and radio stations. 
Choose your social media carefully for hurricane info. During
Dorian, Town Administrator Andy Benke sent out Town-related info
on a daily or even twice-daily schedule…including one post at around
1 a.m. in the midst of the storm. Those updates and other info were
also posted on the Town’s Twitter account (@TownofSI). Please follow
the Town on Twitter, or even its mayor (@oneilpm1). You can get
Andy’s Town emails throughout the year by asking to be added to
the list; just email Andy with your preferred email address, home
address and cell number at abenke@sullivansisland-sc.gov. 
See you around the Island!
Pat O’Neil, Mayor
843.670.9266 | oneilp@sullivansisland-sc.com | @oneilpm1
9October 11, 2019
IOP City Council discusses
upcoming census
I
sle of Palms Council started its
regularly scheduled meeting
at exactly 6 p.m. on Sept. 24.
Hurricane Dorian loomed large in
the proceedings as mayor Jimmy
Carroll expressed particular
thanks to the city’s public works
department for getting the island
back in shape so quickly after the
storm. Parliamentary procedures
were quickly dispatched, giving
way to a virtual procession of
“swearing in” ceremonies.  only one refused to answer all the
Eric Bolen, Nick Russo, and
Lawrence Daugherty were sworn
in as the newest members of the
IOP fire department. The IOP
Police Department added Ian
Mobley, and Bobby Hunter to
its ranks. The festivities ended
with Chris Bako’s addition to the
recreation department.  the real reason for his attendance.
The first presentation of the
evening was an overview of the
national census coming up next
year, courtesy of Ms. Vermelle
P. Simmons. She provided a
shipload of statistics on which
states have the highest and lowest
populations, the distribution of
South Carolina’s population,
and which states are projected to
lose, gain, or retain congressional
seats. North Carolina is projected
to add a seat to its congressional
delegation, for example, while
South Carolina is expected to
remain the same. The census
bureau doesn’t really go door-
to-door the way they used to,
“let alone on horseback,” she
said, eliciting more than a
few chuckles. Packets will be
mailed to most U.S. citizens
and Simmons emphasized the
importance of completing census
documents and answering all
questions. The data derived
guides a number of additional
federal policies when aggregated
including: Apportionment
(drawing congressional districts).
Drawing state voting districts.
Enforcing voting and civil
rights legislation. Distributing
federal dollars. Informing new
businesses on where to locate.
Detailed information on
the presentation, as well as
information on jobs with the
CIVIC CALENDAR
RECYCLE - WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23 - RECYCLE
Isle of Palms City Hall
843.886.6428
iop.net
1207 Palm Boulevard
(all meetings are held at City Hall
unless otherwise indicated)
Tuesday, Oct. 15
Ways and Means Committee
5 p.m.
CIVIC
BY GREGG BRAGG
FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS
census bureau is available by
visiting www.census.gov.  find out why these chairs are
IOP resident John McMaster
was the first and only contributor
to citizens’ comments. He began
by saying, “This doesn’t count
against my three minutes,” as
he recounted his own experience
working for the census bureau.
McMaster said he may have
interviewed as many as 500
people and out of that number,
questions. “I had no problem with
him. He was interesting to talk to;
he just didn’t want to answer the
questions. I had no problem with
him other than that… but it’s an
easy job,” he added, baiting the
hook for working at the census
bureau. McMaster then turned to
“Okay, what I came here for!
I didn’t bring my notes, you will
be happy to know,” he began
framing his comments with the
laughs of attendees and council
members alike. “Most of you
know I write letters to the editor,
I attend council meetings, and
send emails back and forth to
try to get some points across
about IOP spinning their wheels
or wasting their time. One of
my pet peeves… is trash on the
beach,” he said. McMaster said
that’s getting better, but one of
the problems that hasn’t been
rectified is chairs that are left on
the beach.  from SUVs to pickups. Police
“There are broken chairs left
on the beach, dragged to the
trash bins, by ME, and there
are citations left on them... Now,
these chairs are not accountable.
I have not talked to one of them yet
[the chuckles start], that has ever
apologized for getting broken and
left on the beach [full on bursts
of laughter from the gallery],”
he said. “But there are chairs
that can be held accountable,
and these are the blue chairs.
He went on the say that the blue
chairs and umbrellas include
a company name and phone
number, but he’s never found a
blue chair with a citation on it.
They’re left for weeks at a time
and it’s been going on for years,
Tuesday, Oct. 22
City Council
6 p.m.
Sullivan’s Island Town Hall
843.883.3198
sullivansisland.sc.gov
2056 Middle Street
(all meetings are held at Town Hall
unless otherwise indicated)
he claimed. “It’s about time we
not held accountable, and that’s
all I have to say. Thank you,”
concluded McMaster.   “Where to” Map
Ways & Means committee
chair Jimmy Ward said the
city’s finances are at about 11%
of projections, about where
they needed to be at this point
in fiscal year (which started in
July). Actions items that fell out
of Ward’s W&M report included:
Refurbishment of tower 1002
in the amount of $600,000. 
The mayor chimed in to say
this was a 95 foot ladder truck
the city would have needed to
replace at twice the cost. He
said $300,000 of the budgeted
expense would come from capital
projects, $150,000 from county
ATAX monies, and the remaining
$150,000 from the municipal
ATAX fund. The motion passed
unanimously.
Replacement of four police
vehicles in the amount of
$220,000.
The first $44,000 will be drawn
against capital projects with the
remainder split evenly between
municipal and state ATAX
funds. Council member Carol Rice
announced she would be voting
“Nay” on the motion. She was
perfectly on-board with replacing
the vehicles, but not the change
Chief Kevin Cornett pitched the
change on the grounds of cost
savings and broader utility. The
motion passed by majority vote.
S&ME, Inc. asked council
for $32,925 to conduct a
geotechnical investigation as part
of the Isle of Palms marina dock
replacement project. The motion
passed unanimously.
Approval of fiscal year 2020
millage rate.
Council member Jimmy Ward
was quick to point out approval
meant no tax increase for IOP
residents. The motion passed
unanimously.
IOP Council continues on page 7
Monday, Oct. 14
Planning Commission
6 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 15
Town Council Meeting
6 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 16
Design Review Board Meeting
6 p.m.
3
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4 October 11, 2019
Candidates continues from cover
3. The City is doing well financially. We recently approved the
budget with no millage increase (no property tax increase) for this
year. The fiscal year ending June 30, 2019 audit will be starting soon.
I will not be sure of the exact numbers until the audit is complete
(audit report is usually issued in late fall) but it appears the City will
enjoy a material surplus (revenues were greater than expenses) in the
general fund. Some reasons for this prediction are a) on the expense
side, the City was understaffed for most of the year, some capital
projects were deferred into later years b) on the revenue side, the City
increased rental license, building permit fees. Municipal parking lot
fees were also raised. Tourism fund revenues (municipal and state A
taxes, hospitality taxes and beach restoration revenues all increased.
In the future city council must continue to diligently work on the
budget, particularly watching expenses, to ensure taxpayers are
provided with great city services at the best possible price. Until
last year the city did not have a line item in the budget for deferred
maintenance on city owned fixed assets. Now we set aside 1% of the
insured value of those assets each year for deferred maintenance.
This past year the City’s ways and means committee set aside about
$153,000, next year this number will be significantly higher since the
Public Safety Building on JC Long Blvd. will be undergoing extensive
renovations this year, therefore that asset is not included in the
calculation but will be next year. I would like to see the City continue
to contribute more money to the disaster recovery fund. I served
on city council from 1988-’91 (Hurricane Hugo). I believe in saving
for future disaster recovery efforts we hope will never come. I am a
Certified Public Accountant licensed in South Carolina (SC Board of
Accountancy certificate number 2800, issued March 19, 1987) and
currently serve as chairman of the City’s ways and means committee.
Rusty Streetman
1. a. Over the past year, I have attended many Committee meetings
and Council meetings. I never came away with the idea that our
current Council wants to impose stringent guidelines that infringe
on property owner rights. That being stated, we don’t want, or need
a Homeowners Association in place on the Isle of Palms, but I do
think homeowners should be expected to keep their homes and yards
in a safe condition. Before I would vote in support of any ordinance
regarding “Dilapidated Structures,” I would like to review the issue(s)
with our Building and Planning Director, and speak with citizens
www.islandeyenews.com
concerned with this issue. I would also like to study any proposals
and recommendations made by the Real Property Committee. 
b. First, I would state let’s enforce our current litter laws on the
beach. One way to do that is to allow the Beach Service Officers to
write tickets for any infraction. It’s also very difficult to enforce littering
offenses unless the officer sees the infraction firsthand. In regards to
smoking, the only beach in S.C. that has banned smoking is Surfside
Beach where there is a civil penalty with warnings to offenders, or
nominal fines of $10-25 per offense.  Sullivan’s Island is currently
discussing a ban on smoking in public places, and the beach, in
an attempt to curb littering and pollution. On this particular issue
for the Isle,I would like to see the recommendations coming out of
Committee as to what this entails for the Isle of Palms , and how it
would be enforced. All of us certainly want cleaner air, water, and a
cleaner beach . 
Our goal as residents of this beautiful “Paradise” is to expect our
visitors and citizens to leave nothing but footprints on the beach as
they leave.
2. Yes, I think this has been a real positive overall for Palm
Blvd. There is less traffic, resulting in less litter, and I have witnessed
firsthand that it has created a significantly safer environment for our
beach visitors and residents. We provide plenty of parking for visitors
on the Isle when you consider Palm Blvd., the Public Parking Lots,
the County Park , and the Breach Inlet lot., and as a result, I don’t
think it is necessary, or safe to return to perpendicular parking on
Palm between 22nd Ave and 40th Ave. 
I would also like to see us more effectively address the parallel
parking near driveways on Palm. It’s often very difficult for occupants
of those homes, and their guests, to exit a driveway safely during the
high tourist season. I would be interested in considering a plan to
have no parking on both sides of Palm a reasonable distance from
driveway entrances similar to the distances which must be provided
at street entrances. 
3. I think the current council and city administration is on the
right track to have more accountability and responsibility to sound,
fiscally responsible budgeting, as evidenced by the work they put in
for the 2019 budget, and the framework they’ve put in place for future
budgeting. 
It’s a good first step, and the focus must stay on improving the
process with future Council. 
To that extent, I also believe we need to amend our spending
practices to have more budget accountability with each specific
October 11, 2019
department head, and also find more ways to generate more General
Fund Revenue sources which we can spend on our high priority
capital projects.  sides of Palm from 22th to 40th. This helps limit parking opportunities
We can’t afford to depend on ATAX dollars to fund our coffers
since we’re limited as to how we can utilize those funds. If we have
a devastating storm or other catastrophic event, like Hurricane
Hugo, those dollars go away until we rebuild our infrastructure and
amenities.  of Way on the non- beach side of Palm and for our parking officers to
Lastly, but most importantly, the Council & City Administration,
along  with citizen input and feedback, need to collaborate and develop
a long term “Strategic Plan” to deal with our high priority items, and
any other major issues that may arise in the future.  budget and corporate goals were the number one priority, I feel it’s
Kevin Popson
1. a. I would support an ordinance for dilapidated structures
including fences, pools and yards, however the devil will be in the
details. The ordinance will have to have clear cut standards that would
define and establish violations. It would need to define enforcement,
processes, fines and remedies. How do we monitor? Do we hire a
enforcement officer/person? The proposed ordinance suggested that
our city inspector handle these duties. While a option, we need to
remember he is quite busy with building inspections and plan reviews.
Also the current proposed ordinance requires the owner 24 hours to
remedy, depending upon the issue, is this may not be enough time?
I worry about the town’s liability upon entering someone’s property
to remedy the issue if the owner won’t. How does the town recoup
the expense of the repair? Filing a lien on the property could sit on
the books for years. We need to careful, since creating an ordinance
like this, could start the town down a slippery slope. I will oppose
and would vote against any idea of trying to establish an HOA (Home
Owners Association) on the island.
b. I have never smoked; I deal with allergies that are sensitive to
smoke, even on clothes and cars that smell like smoke, however at
this point I could not support a ban. If elected, I would recommend
that Council continue the discussion, since I’m sure this will be an
explosive and divisive issue. I would recommend that Council take its
time to engage our residents for their input and perhaps hold focus
groups or establish an ad hoc committee to bring a recommendation
to planning commission and Council. How would this ban affect our
businesses on the beach? The current proposed ordinance states “on
all city owned property” which would include the marina. Is this a
smoke issue or a litter issue? If a litter issue, we have laws so let’s try
www.islandeyenews.com
5
to find a way to enforce. 
2. I support and would vote to continue parallel parking on both
along Palm. It also decreases the amount of cars that our residents on
Palm have to deal with.  I also feel that the parallel parking helps with
parked visitors accessing back onto Palm, which would help with less
traffic interruptions. In addition, this allows more room in the Right
safely do their job. I have also noticed that families are letting their
children out and gathering their things on that side as well.
3. I’m a fiscal conservative and for all my years in business, the
even more important now since we are spending our residents’ tax
dollars. We must create, manage and beat our budget each and every
year. By accumulating surpluses it allows us to build reserves to help
fund current and future capital improvements, repairs, maintenance,
etc. I will be the first to admit that it will take some time to do a deep
dive and become familiar with all the moving parts within our city’s
budget. With an accounting degree and years of business practice,
I’m confident I can provide input quickly. After reviewing the budget,
I believe our current council is doing a great job watching our money.
It appears that if the FY 19 forecast holds, we will have a surplus
of $800,000+. Tourist related funds have been trending up, which
means more revenue and with the current market conditions, I believe
this trend will continue. While visitors may be a double edged sword,
they are our weekly renters- Accommodations Tax money and go to
restaurants-Hospitality Tax money; we even pocket some monies
from people parking illegally!  Also important is that these visitors
spend money at many of our island businesses. I promise that the
budget will be a priority, with constant monitoring. We must always
look at ways to cut expenses as long as it doesn’t affect the efficiency
of our departments.  
Phillip Pounds
1. a. I am opposed to the current proposed version of new standards
for dilapidated structures. I am, however, in favor of ordinances that
allow all homeowners the right and privilege to own and maintain
their property in a manner that is safe, hazard free and in habitable
condition and creates an environment where their neighbor does the
same.
Candidates continues on page 6
6 October 11, 2019
Candidates continues from page 5
b. I am opposed to a ban on smoking on the beach. I
would prefer to see us more diligently enforce our litter laws
to address what I believe to be at the heart of the issue. I’m
not a smoker and prefer not to be around 2nd hand smoke
but the enforcement of this ordinance would seem to be
very difficult and intrusive.
2. Yes, I am in favor of parallel parking on this section of
Palm. Anything we can do to better reduce the density on
our island is better for our residents. Reducing congestion
of island visitors has been working: parallel parking on Palm
is a positive step. Also, I would be opposed to any zoning
changes, such as the boutique hotel being considered on
Palm Blvd., that would increase traffic congestion and do
nothing to maintain the island’s residential focus which
has been an overriding goal of our City.
3. At the highest level, the city is in decent shape financially
as it relates to day to day activities. However, once you
spend time reviewing our finances in more detail, you notice
a large dependence on accommodation tax revenue and an
expense growth that is not sustainable at current levels of
revenue. Also, there are many large expenditure projects the
City is not able to initiate due to the sources and amount
of our revenue (e.g. accommodation tax revenue can only
be used for tourism related expense items). The City can be
more fiscally responsible by reviewing all areas of revenue to
ensure we are receiving all we are due and perform a fresh
review of all spending and staffing levels to ensure we are
meeting the needs of our residents and visitors. Emphasis
should be placed on obtaining additional revenue through
both public and private grants to cover a portion of the costs
for our infrastructure needs such as drainage.
Katrina Limbach
1. a. Before I get into how I feel about both of these issues,
there is something bigger at stake that I am passionate
about changing: transparency. As a small city government,
we have the duty to utilize modern technology to duly notify
the public when important issues are being discussed. I have
noticed that many of our residents are feeling blind sided
www.islandeyenews.com
when important, relevant issues like these go into second
reading and pass as law before they even knew it was being
considered. It is so important to get this information out to
our residents quickly so that they have an opportunity to
give Council their opinions and feelings.
I believe that we need to preserve the character of the
island and allow as much freedom for personal property as
possible. This is not a big neighborhood developed by some
large investment firm; this island is organic and, as much
as I don’t love seeing the few eyesores, I am not in favor of
the blight ordinance, as written.
b. I have many feelings about the smoking on the beach
ban. Though I value our personal freedoms and deregulation,
I believe that the ban is the necessary step in keeping our
beaches clean, our air pure for our children and our image
beautified. As the co-founder of the IOP Cleanup Crew, I
truly had no idea the extent of which cigarette butts are
littered on our beautiful coastline until we began tracking
the litter we found on the beach- cigarettes are the number
one littered item on earth. Also, we absolutely need to
instate an island-wide anti-litter campaign with creative
signage and enforcement and lead our coastal neighbors to
a cleaner ocean.
2. I do not support perpendicular parking on either side
of Palm Blvd. for safety reasons first. It simply is not safe
during the busy summer months to have people backing in
and out on a busy street with people walking and crossing
everywhere, especially children. Also, I think that we need
to pass on small impact fees to non-residents parking on
the island, whether that’s an inexpensive seasonal pass or
another non-metered innovation. It would give beach-goers
invested interest in caring for our beach and also give us
additional revenue to better protect our most treasured
resource.
3. I believe that the island, with all of its assets and
resources, should never have an excuse to not be financially
healthy. We need to utilize our assets by writing leases that
are profitable, utilize franchise fees when appropriate, and
rethink the way we jump to hire expensive consulting firms.
I think that we could use our A-tax more efficiently and
tangibility than we currently are.
LUNR committee meets
to address Accreted Land
Management plan
BY ROB BYKO
FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS
Town Council discusses Land Management Plan.
A
t 8:30 a.m., Chauncey Clark
gaveled in the Land Use and Natural
Resource (LUNR) meeting in the
SI Town Council Chambers, welcoming
fellow committee members Kaye Smith
and Mayor Pat O’Neil and an eager crowd
in attendance to hear discussions of the
“team selection for review of the accreted
Land Management Plan for consideration
at the Oct. 7, 2019 Council workshop.”
Clark then opened the floor for public
comments which brought the morning’s
pleasantries among neighbors to an
abrupt end.
Council member Bachman Smith
opened public remarks, saying he didn’t
LUNR continues on page 8
www.islandeyenews.com
IOP Council continues from page 2
Recommendation from the
Accommodations Tax Advisory
Committee for the city to sponsor Pure
Theater in the amount of $8,000.
Council member Susan Hill Smith
highlighted the fact this wasn’t for
general support of Pure Theatre, so much
as for a specific play they would perform.
The rules of order were temporarily
suspended for an impromptu description
of the play by Pure Theatre artistic
director, Sharon Graci. “Osceola’s Muse
is a unique intersection of Pure Theater,
Jonathan Green, Native American and
Gullah cultures,” said Graci. The play
will take place on Sullivan’s Island on
Oct. 12, 18 and 19. The measure passed
unanimously
The LOWVELO bike ride to benefit
cancer research is back. Council voted
unanimously to approve supporting the
event to the tune of $5,000, but not before
council member Kinghorn suggested
that all council members participate in
the race while wearing spandex – (The
amendment was NOT approved. It wasn’t
even voted on, but did get some laughs).  There being no further business, the
Council member Ryan Buckhannon
recommended and won unanimous
approval of a mutual aid agreement with
the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office on
behalf of the public safety committee.
Council member John Moye reported
his personnel committee was very close
to selecting and hiring an assistant city
administrator. He also won approval
of the employment agreement for city
administrator Desiree Fragoso. 
Council then turned to the legislative
7
part of the meeting Ordinance 2019-17
passed its second reading by majority
vote (Kinghorn and Rice voting “Nay”).
The measure highlights amendments and
provides clarity to the rules of procedure
during public meetings. Council members
reiterated that council would continue to
be flexible depending on circumstance.
That said, the general rules are: Sign up
in advance of the meeting, if you intend
to make a public comment. No more than
30 minutes total will be invested in public
comments. Individual contributions
should be limited to three minutes per
person. Comments are to be addressed
to council. Council will respond as
appropriate, but generally doesn’t
entertain questions in this setting.
There was only a single item of
miscellaneous business. Council
approved a small fireworks display on
Nov. 2 as part of an event sponsored by
Johnson & Johnson. 
The electronic version of the meeting
agenda includes committee meeting
minutes and is available at iop.net/
Data/Sites/1/media/city-council-2019/
cc-packet-9.24.2019rev.pdf. 
meeting was adjourned.
Reminder: The City of Isle of Palms
Farmers' Market is open every Wednesday
until Oct. 30, from 3 – 7 p.m. The market
is located at the Isle of Palms Recreation
Center on 27th Avenue, adjacent to the
baseball fields. Parking is available free
of charge. 
8 October 11, 2019
LUNR continues from page 6
understand “what the urgency
is, when we know we’re in some
litigation over the very words that
were used by Council member
Clark to explain why he wanted
to do this.” Smith then recalled
Clark’s statement at the Sept. 17
full Council Meeting describing
the objectives for hiring a panel
of experts. “The last two words he
(Clark) used when describing the
study were ‘views and breezes.’
” Smith also recalled Council
member Tim Reese stating in
response to Council member
Sara Church’s questions about
why the experts were being hired,
“Reese replied ‘flat out, yes, this
is about the trees.’ ”  members today when we have
Bachman Smith also said
that the idea of dunes formation
needs to be addressed now. “We
know we face a weather event
annually, if not bi-annually or
more, (which) can inundate this
island with flooding and storm
water. When the sea levels do
rise, it’s going to come from the
back side of the island. Three-
foot of rise has water coming
across Middle Street.”
Smith concluded, "(What)
I want to know is why all the
urgency and who all have we
been vetting before we go down
this process?" Smith’s comments
were met with applause. Clark
quieted the crowd with a strike
from his gavel.
Anne Marie Brown then spoke.
“When I think of storm surge and statement by Council member
hurricanes I feel a little bit like Greg Hammond. “The accreted
a sitting duck.” She liked the land is a highly divisive
idea of an island-wide plan. “I topic on this island, this is
don’t know how anyone can find clear.” Hammond’s statement
fault with this (plan), or with the acknowledged the people who
council, in trying to bolster our came to the meeting to express
resiliency.” their “deep and personal belief
Council member Sara Church and opinions on this issue.” He
then took to the speaker’s thanked them for being part of
podium. “This is the second study the conversation. “It is our job
we have not budgeted for that has as elected officials in this town
been approved in the last month. to hear all sides of an issue
We are very early in the fiscal and take measured action that
year, a time when the public has incorporates concerns from and
the opportunity to weigh in on addresses the desires of all our
the agenda that we’ve set for the island residents. We must not
year. At this rate, we’re not doing simply ignore a group of citizens
well.” She said, “The process is because our opinions and beliefs
backwards. We’re looking at team may be at odds, we also must
not cater to a group of citizens
not discussed what we’re going simply because they are louder
to address (in) the management and more vocal.”
plan. Council has not discussed Keil Schmid, a new homeowner
and approved this would be the on the island, told the Committee
method.”  “I’m a coastal geologist. One of the
Susan Middaugh observed reasons why I chose my house
that the work already underway was because of the protective
in the Transition Zone provides forest that was there.” He said,
the opportunity to evaluate the “I’d map the area, look at things,
effects of removal of foliage. so there is also an economical
“This is kind of a testing area tax base foundation for having
which we see already with some (the forest) there. That is one of
of the heavy equipment that it is the reasons why I chose to live on
turning the soil to sand. It would Sullivan’s Island.”  to make recommendations to
be premature to decide that we Joe Church, a SC-licensed
would want to take that up for the civil engineer (spouse of
rest of the 190 acres. What kind Council member Sara Church),
of damage vegetation removal is questioned the Committee’s
doing.”  adherence to the state’s and
Other concerned residents the town’s procurement rules,
spoke, and then Clark read a encouraging them to slow down
and become more transparent
so that the citizens can see
exactly what is before them. “It’s
important that you lay out all
the procedures and all the pieces
so that the taxpayers can see
when you’re spending thousands
of dollars on the fly, like what
(Council) did for the park to look
at turning it into a parking lot.” 
Chairman Clark closed the
public’s comments with “We
are all talking about things that
concern us, we all love our island,
we all have feelings about our
island and how we should carry
it forward.”
Clark then read his own
prepared statement into the
record. Saying in part, “Climate
change poses a risk for Sullivan’s
Island through the intensity
and frequency of storm events,
rising sea water and rising
ground water levels. Sullivan’s
Island is fortunate to have
town-owned accreted land that,
managed properly, can enhance
the resiliency of the island and
improve the quality of life for
our citizens. The intent of this
team to look at the key elements
of resiliency, storm protection,
mosquito control and others
become a menu for us to follow
and modify or reject. This is just
a menu of items that we want to
put forth from a new set of eyes
based upon what we’ve been
doing for the last 8 years.” 
Speaking expeditiously, Clark
October 11, 2019 9
then read the full motion into the record, quickly seconded by Council can do to become more resilient and safe.” To that, several residents
member Kaye Smith. Those in the audience objected, calling out, “We asked for the committee to define the word “resiliency.” The committee
can’t hear you.” With that, Clark re-read his motion a second time provided no comment.
more deliberately so the audience could hear. Smith again seconded In a final comment, Mayor O’Neil stated, “I think that it’s very, very
the motion. The motion appeared to substantially expand the scope premature to be selecting people when we don’t have a very clear idea
of work the team would be hired to perform, as discussed at the Sept. of what we want them to do.” His comment was rewarded by applause
17 Town Council meeting, and as put forth on the LUNR meeting from the gallery.
agenda. The motion then was open to discussion by the committee. Despite objection, Clark closed the meeting with a vote, saying, “I
Mayor O’Neil stated, “That’s a lengthy motion. I didn’t get the copy suggest that we carry forward with the motion and then carry forward
that you all have in the motion so it was difficult for me to follow.” with (Mayor O’Neil’s) comments about scope of work.” In essence, hire
The Mayor indicated that he had some prior discussions with Clark the team then figure out what to do. The vote was called, Clark and
“at some length.” O’Neil said, “I do agree this is a little bit backwards. Kaye Smith voted to approve; O’Neil opposed. The motion passed. 
It’s kind of like we’re having a pro-sports draft, but we don’t know Clark stated “We’re going to have a team of experts in a room.
what sport we are going to play. Until we actually have some good They’re going to have a wide variety of knowledge. This is just a
idea on what the scope of the project is and should be, I think it’s beginning. You can’t possibly imagine all this coming together in a
very premature to even consider individuals, however well-qualified two-day meeting.” He summarized, “This is a kickoff meeting that
they might be. My question is which fields do we need? Which fields says “We reviewed your island, we reviewed your plan, and these are
of expertise do we need? And we don’t know that until we know what the elements that I think you are strong on, these are the elements
we’re trying to do.” you are weak on. We carry forward from this meeting a list of things
He continued, “Since transparency has been mentioned, is the to go for. That is what this is about.”
agenda item… Accreted Land Management Plan, rather than what
(the committee is now) describing which is a much broader, and
perhaps commendably so, a much broader scope of work, that I don’t
think we’ve properly advertised.”
Council member Kaye Smith offered, “I think we’re going back to the
intent of the (Accreted Land) Management Plan to begin with, which
states ‘Therefore, it is expected that the town engage appropriately
trained professionals to translate the Management Plan objectives
and approaches into a detailed plan which will be acceptable to all
town citizens. These detailed plans will be the blueprint that the town
will cause to be executed under appropriate direction.’” 
“Now, what we put in the scope of work, or what Council member
Clark put in the scope of work, would include review of the entire
island, ‘boundary including foreshore, backshore, and inlet harbor
elements, which takes in resiliency for the entire island’.” She
concluded, “I think resiliency is of the utmost importance and that
is what we’re including in this and that is the impetus for this plan.” 
She then read an overview of the qualifications for each proposed
team member and followed up with, “We are all concerned about
resiliency and flooding. Climate resilient planning should be our
number one goal. This is about hiring a team of professionals to give
scientific, safe recommendations on how we can manage what we

www.islandeyenews.com
10
Indigo fun at Poe
STAFF REPORT   secure funding. This money is well spent if action is taken to resolve
FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS
A
ll are invited to the Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library for a
workshop and history lesson on indigo. Local historian Dr.
Nick Butler will be giving a lecture on the history of indigo
following a workshop with Andrea LaFalce. This event is held at the
library and begins at 11 a.m.
For questions please contact Connie Darling at 843.883.3914
www.islandeyenews.com
October 11, 2019
letter to the editor
Dear Editor,
Joe Church wrote a sensationalized version of the truth in your
last edition concerning the work Councilman Reese, as Chairman
of the Public Safety Committee, is doing on traffic and pedestrian
safety in the commercial district.
Anyone that drives through the commercial district knows that
the pedestrian and traffic flow is a problem. It has been that way for
years and is getting worse with no end in sight. So let’s review the
ideas proposed:
• Examine the entrance to the Island on Station 22 ½ and the
Middle Street corridor in the commercial district for improved
traffic flow and safety.
• Possibly utilize permanent traffic medians to control turning vs
stationed sheriff’s officers, cones etc.
• Potentially eliminate perpendicular parking to create a safer and
walk able commercial town center.
• Evaluate private and public parking alternatives to accommodate
employees, visitors and Islanders.
Yes, including if we should consider the old volleyball courts for
parking. Why cannot we just consider that parking does not equal
pavement and parks with parking lots can coexist.
This was all a proposal to request a Traffic Engineering Study
with the intent of collaborating on solving the issue, not creating
roadblocks before alternatives were vetted through public forums.
I suspect the recreation committee members did not say anything
because there is nothing to address so disparaging them or using a
bully pulpit to intimidate or spread falsehoods is unfair at best.
Fact: to make changes to the speed limit, parking in the DOT right
of way and street direction all require an engineering study. So the
map presented simply provided a demonstration of the issues to
the issues with parking and access to the commercial district.
Otherwise we will continue to have an unorganized commercial
district that operates ineffectively while moving commercial parking
deeper into the residential area.
Our elected town officials will continue to earn the support of the
Islanders by balancing all of our interests and ideas. That is what
leadership does. Let them do their jobs and leave your conspiracy
politics to Washington.
Kevin Pennington
Sullivan’s Island
All letters submitted to The Island
Eye News must bear a full name,
address and phone number for
verification. Only the author’s
name and city will be printed.
Submissions are accepted via
email to katy@luckydognews.com
or mail to PO. Box 837, Sullivan’s
Island, SC 29482.
Letters may be edited for length
and readability. The Island
Eye News reserves the right to
reject letters that are libelous,
unseemly, not individually
addressed to The Island Eye News
or that have been previously
published elsewhere.
Ali Akhyari (center) with his wife Austen (right), Island Eye News crew and friends at an
SIFD Oyster Roast.

A sad farewell
T
he staff of The Island Eye News is devastated to hear of the
passing of our first ever reporter Ali Akhyari, 39. Ali sadly
died in a motorcycle accident on Fri. Sept. 27. He was an
excellent reporter and an even better man. His family was part of
our family; he married our first sales manager, Austen. Our deep
condolences go out to his wife and two small children.
Please consider helping this family that has lost so much by
donating to a memorial fund that has been set up in his name:
gofundme.com/f/ali-akhyari-memorial-fund.
October 11, 2019
IOP COUNCIL SEEKS LOCAL INPUT FOR DECISION ON MARINA
T
he Isle of Palms City Council
is currently considering
three options for the city-
owned Isle of Palms’ Marina, one
of which will have a major impact
on what the IOP Marina looks
like and what it offers to local
residents and visitors by the end
of next year and beyond - well
beyond.
At a special meeting Sept. 26,
an overflow crowd jammed into
Council chambers to get its first,
somewhat brief, look at three
distinct proposals to replace
the lease currently held by Jay
Clarke for the Morgan Creek Grill
property.
The three proposals offer a trio
of vastly different visions for the
Marina. Clarke would like the city
to extend his lease on the property
through 2036, with an option for
another 15 years, at his current
rate of approximately $10,000 a
month. Dave and Chrissy Lorenz
and Jon and Bridget Bushnell
plan to demolish the 31-year-old
restaurant and replace it with
“a laid-back, casual gathering
spot.” Meanwhile, a partnership
consisting of real estate developer
Lowe, Ravenel Commercial
Properties and Marina Joint
Ventures wants to develop the
entire 5.12-acre Marina, possibly
adding residential property,
office space, retail, event space,
additional restaurants and a dry-
stack.
Two of the leases on the property,
for the store and the rest of the
Marina, excluding the restaurant
and property occupied by Tidal
Wave Watersports, are currently
held through 2045 by Marina
Joint Ventures; Brian Berrigan
is its president and operations
manager. MJV subleases to other
tenants, including Barrier Island
Eco Tours, fishing and boat
charters and the small restaurant
inside the store.
The city of Isle of Palms currently
takes in approximately $437,617
a year from the four leases at the
Marina. The numbers change
Three different visions
BY BRIAN SHERMAN
FOR THE ISLAND EYE NEWS
from year to year because some of
the leases can vary based on the
Consumer Price Index and the
gross receipts of the businesses
leasing the property. IOP also
collects property tax, sales tax and
hospitality tax from businesses at
the Marina.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY LORENZ BUSHNELL PROPOSAL
The request for proposal,
developed by commercial real
estate firm Lee and Associates for
the city of Isle of Palms, asked only
for options to replace the lease on
the Morgan Creek Grill property,
which expires in October 2020.
The city’s elected officials are
in no hurry to make a decision,
according to Mayor Jimmy Carroll.
Instead, they’re concentrating
efforts on finding out what IOP
residents want to do with the
property, which was purchased
from the Finch family in 1999 at a
cost of $4.25 million. Carroll said
he would like to have a meet and
greet and possibly a public forum
so those who live on the island
can voice their preferences.
“This decision is too big for
nine Council members to make,”
Carroll said. “We need to have as
much information as we can to do
the right thing. What’s going to be
our legacy is what we do at the
Marina. We want to get it right. We
want to know what our residents’
vision is for the Marina.”
www.islandeyenews.com
While local residents are waiting
for the city to schedule a public
meeting on the Marina proposals,
they can voice their opinion on
the city’s website by clicking the
menu titled “The Island” and
going to “Latest News.” There they
will find the headline “IOP Marina
Lease Proposals.” There’s a place
to leave comments following the
proposals.
“We want as much feedback as
possible,” Carroll explained. “Our
job is to listen to the people.”
City Administrator Desiree
Fragoso pointed out that most
of the comments already posted
on the website oppose the Lowe/
Ravenel/Marina Joint Ventures
proposal. Lowe Senior Vice
President Dan Battista said his
company was waiting for a formal
response from the city of Isle of
Palms before deciding whether to
submit a proposal for the Morgan
Creek Grill property only, rather
than for the entire Marina. He
released the following statement
Oct. 4: “Lowe’s goal is to enhance
the Isle of Palms Marina for all
residents, which is why we are
focused on the bigger picture
and submitted a proposal to
improve the entire property. We
have collaborated with the city
of Isle of Palms over the past 30
13
years and feel this city-owned
property has the potential to be
another positive public-private
partnership. Regardless of the
outcome, we look forward to a
continued relationship with the
city and supporting their efforts to
enhance the Isle of Palms Marina.”
The “laid-back, casual gathering
spot” doesn’t have a name yet,
but, if the city grants the lease to
the Lorenz/Bushnell partnership
beginning next year, it will have
local ownership. Both families live
on the island, and Jon Bushnell
pointed out that they already have
verbal commitments from more
than a dozen potential investors,
all of them local residents. They
are seeking a 49-year lease from
the city.
Chrissy Lorenz explained that
it makes financial sense to raze
the current 8,700-square-foot
Morgan Creek Grill, pointing out
that renovations probably would
cost more than building a new
4,500-square-foot restaurant,
which will also include a rooftop
deck.
“The building would be designed
with a much more modern coastal
format than what is there now,”
Bushnell said, adding that plans
also call for the construction of a
public boardwalk.
He said the golf cart parking
area would be expanded and that
“we’ll look at all available options”
to increase the number of vehicle
parking spaces.
Chrissy Lorenz, whose father
was in the restaurant business,
said the menu would be heavy on
seafood, salads and shareables,
with a bar featuring island drinks,
classic cocktails, craft beer and
wine – and a kids’ menu offering
chicken tenders and grilled
cheese as well. The rooftop bar,
she said, would take advantage
of views of Morgan Creek and the
Intracoastal Waterway, and the
boardwalk would be an important
addition.
Marina continues on page 14
14
End-of-the-season party for the Turtle Team.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND
• 15 Nests – all hatched
• 21 False (non-nesting) Crawls on the Beach
• 8 Nests incubated in situ. 7 Nests Relocated
• Average Incubation Time 51.8 Days
• Average Clutch Count 113 Eggs
• Average Hatch Success 90.3%
• Average Emergence from the Sand 87.9%
• Hatchlings Produced 1,286
ISLE OF PALMS
• 57 Nests – all hatched
• 55 False (non-nesting) Crawls on the Beach
• 18 Nests incubated in situ. 39 Nests Relocated
• Average Incubation Time 54.7 Days
• Average Clutch Count 119.1 Eggs
• Average Hatch Success 87.8%
• Average Emergence from the Sand 84.2%
• Hatchlings Produced 5,788
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA
• 8,800 Nests (not all have hatched)
• 12,617 False (non-nesting) Crawls
• 6,299 Nests incubated in situ. The Rest Relocated
• Average Incubation Time 54.1 Days
• Average Hatch Success 57.5%
• Average Emergence from the Sand 54.9%
• Hatchlings Produced So Far 478,882
TURTLE TEAM
Loggerheads are
finished for the season
A G R E AT N E S T I N G S E A S O N H A S E N D E D
BY MARY PRINGLE
FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS
A
great nesting season has
come to an end. The Island
Turtle Team celebrated with
an end of the season party on Oct.
1, where the season was recapped
with food, drinks, slides and
videos as well as a silent auction
to benefit sea turtle conservation
efforts were enjoyed by many
volunteers.   nests nor Sullivan’s with 15 nests
PHOTO BY BARB BERGWERF The last nest produced
hatchlings on Sept. 26 at 30th
Avenue on the Isle of Palms. The
Island Turtle Team found and
protected more nests this summer
than any other since records have
been kept. We are very indebted
to the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s
Island Police and Fire Departments
as well as John and Lisa Garrels
for valuable assistance from May
through September. Vacation
rental companies also pitched in
by handing out our “Lights Out”
brochures to their front beach
visitors. This helped to keep the
beach dark and safe for nesting
females as well as hatchlings
emerging from the sand. Because
of this it was not only the most
prolific season for nesting, but
also one of the most successful
for getting these tiny turtles safely
into the ocean where there is a
chance they will survive. Even
Hurricane Dorian did not destroy
any nests because it passed us at
low tide.  so many new loggerheads into
Sea turtles nest in the summer
because their eggs are left in the
October 11, 2019
sand and require heat to develop
and hatch. When the ocean begins
to cool, most begin a necessary
southward migration. Because
they are cold-blooded reptiles and
have body warmth the same as
the ambient temperature, they
cannot survive here in the winter.
Neither the Isle of Palms with 57
broke records this season. IOP had
63 nests in 2012 and SI had 15
nests in 2016. But never had they
both had such a high number in
the same year. Like most of the 30
nesting projects under the South
Carolina Department of Natural
Resources, our combined number
of 72 was unprecedented.  Below
are final summaries for our two
islands and for the state of South
Carolina.
Loggerheads lay so many eggs
with each individual nesting as
many as 6 times a season at two
week intervals, that it is normal
to have a certain amount of loss.
Statistically only one in 1,000 will
survive to adulthood which takes
25 to 30 years. As you can see
our numbers were a small part
of the statewide total, but our
mean hatch and emergence rates
were well above the average. Our
Turtle Team members worked
hard and should be very proud of
the part they played in bringing
the population. Many thanks to
them for all the hours they spent
finding and protecting nests on
the beach this summer.
Mary Pringle has been the
project leader for the Isle of Palms/
Sullivan’s Island Turtle Team since
2000. It is one of about thirty nest
protection projects under South
Carolina Department of Natural
Resources. She is also on the Sea
Turtle Stranding and Salvage
Network.
Marina continues from page 13
“Residents would love to be
able to walk on the boardwalk
without having to go through the
restaurant to buy anything,” she
said. “They should have access to
the water and they currently do
not.”
Dave and Chrissy Lorenz
currently own Mex 1 Coastal
Cantina at three locations –
Sullivan’s Island, West Ashley
and Park West in Mount Pleasant
– though Dave Lorenz promised
the standing room only crowd at
the Sept. 26 meeting that “this
isn’t going to be another Mex 1.”
The Island Eye News reached
out to Clarke, who has operated
Morgan Creek Grill for 16 years,
but he declined to be interviewed
for this article.
October 11, 2019 15
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Not too soon for end-of-year financial moves
BY EDWARD JONES  
FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS

W
e’ve still got a couple of months until 2019 draws to a close,
but it’s not too early to make some end-of-the-year financial
moves. In fact, it may be a good idea to take some of these
steps sooner rather than later.
Here are a few suggestions:
Boost your 401(k) contributions. Like many people, you might not
usually contribute the maximum amount to your 401(k), which, in
2019 is $19,000, or $25,000 if you’re 50 or older. Ask your employer
if you can increase your 401(k) contributions in 2019, and if you
receive a bonus before the year ends, you may be able to use that
toward your 401(k), too.
Add to your IRA. You have until April 15, 2020, to contribute to
your IRA for the 2019 tax year, but the more you can put in now and
over the next few months, the less you’ll have to come up with in a
hurry at the filing deadline. For 2019, you can put up to $6,000 in
your IRA, or $7,000 if you’re 50 or older.
Review your portfolio. It’s always a good idea to review your
investment portfolio at least once a year, and now is as good a time
as any. But don’t make any judgments based solely on your results
over the past 10 months. Instead, look carefully at how your portfolio
is constructed. Is it still properly diversified, or has it become
overweighted in some areas? Does it still fit your risk tolerance, or Think about next year’s opportunities. It happens to almost
do you find yourself worrying excessively about short-term price all of us: A year has passed, and we haven’t taken the actions we
swings? These are the types of factors that might lead you to make had planned. So, start thinking now about what you want to do
some changes, possibly with the help of a financial professional. in 2020 from a financial standpoint. Can you afford to ratchet up
Don’t forget about your RMDs. Once you turn 70½, you generally your investments in your retirement plans? If you have children
need to start taking withdrawals – the technical term is “required or grandchildren, have you started saving for college? Have you
minimum distributions,” or RMDs – from your traditional IRA and considered ways to protect your financial independence if you ever
your 401(k) or similar plan. After the first year in which you take need some type of long-term care, such as an extended nursing home
these RMDs, you must take them by the end of each year thereafter. stay? If these or other items are on your financial to-do list, start
If you don’t withdraw at least the minimum amount (calculated planning now to get them done next year.
based on your age, account balance and other factors) you face a Time goes quickly – so don’t get left behind without having taken
penalty of 50% of what you should have taken out – a potential loss the steps to keep moving toward your financial goals.
of thousands of dollars. So, take your RMDs before Dec. 31. The This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local
financial services provider that administers your IRA or 401(k) can Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Dimi Matouchev is a financial advisor
help you determine the amount you must withdraw. located in Isle of Palms.

Breach Inlet
Tide Char t
Date High Tide Low Tide
Oct 11 6:50am/7:19pm 12:39am/12:56pm
Oct 12 7:31am/7:58pm 1:17am/1:37pm
Oct 13 8:10am/8:35pm 1:53am/2:16pm
Oct 14 8:46am/9:10pm 2:29am/2:55pm
Oct 15 9:21am/9:43pm 3:03am/3:33pm
Oct 16 9:55am/10:17pm 3:39am/4:12pm
Oct 17 10:31am/10:53pm 4:16am/4:53pm
Oct 18 11:12am/11:36pm 4:57am/5:39pm
Oct 19 12:01pm 5:44am/6:32pm
Oct 20 12:28am/12:58pm 6:37am/7:31pm
Oct 21 1:31am/2:03pm 7:38am/8:34pm
Oct 22 2:40am/3:12pm 8:46am/9:38pm
Oct 23 3:49am/4:17pm 9:54am/10:39pm
Oct 24 4:55am/5:19pm 10:59am/11:36pm

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
 October 12
ONGOING
WHAT: Shorebird Scavenger Hunt
Where: Poe Branch Library
When: anytime we are open
MORE INFO: There are 16 signs
designed by students at Sullivan’s
island elementary to mark paths
and nesting areas for Wilson’s
plover shorebirds on the south
end of the island. The first person
to locate each sign gets a prize.
Gotta find ‘em all.
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 are prohibited on
the beach at night. This includes
flashlights on phones as well.
WHAT: Harbor Friends Golf
Program
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort
Harbor Course
WHEN: After 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: The Harbor Friends
golf program is the ultimate
annual VIP pass to one of the
most beautiful courses in the
Lowcountry. Enroll for just
$49 to enjoy year-round perks
including $44 rounds on the
Harbor Course, exclusive monthly
offers, reward punch card for free
rounds, and 10% off restaurant &
Pro Shop purchases.
Mondays
WHAT: Memoir Writing Circle
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.
Wednesdays
WHAT: Toddler Days
WHERE: Charleston Museum,
360 Meeting St.
WHEN: 10-11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Toddler Day classes
are designed for toddlers (18
months – 3 years) and a parent,
grandparent, or friend to play
and explore in The Charleston
Museum. With a focus on
developing fine motor skills,
each program includes four craft
projects as well as finger paints,
a puppet stage, a sandbox,
and more. $6 Members/$9
Non-Members. To register visit
CharlestonMuseum.org.
WHAT: Farmers’ Market
WHERE: Isle of Palms Rec Center,
27th Avenue
WHEN: 3-7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Market is adjacent
to the rec baseball fields. Parking
is available free of charge.
Thursdays
WHAT: Mah Jongg Nights
(adults)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 5:30-8 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
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
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 2-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Come play with
Is l a nd E y e C a l e nda r
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.
Saturday, Oct. 12
WHAT: Tiki Time Cocktail Class
WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort,
Coastal Provisions
WHEN: 2-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy an interactive
tiki time cocktail class in the
Coastal Provisions dining room.
$35/person. Call 843.886.2200.
Monday, Oct. 14
WHAT: Isle of Palms Cleanup
Crew Sweep
WHERE: Front Beach
WHEN: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Meet on the beach
side of the walkover by the city
restrooms and showers in the
1100 block of Ocean Boulevard.
Reusable bags and gloves provided.
Volunteers are asked to clean up
for 30 minutes, and can gather
at an island restaurant afterward
and enjoy special deals. The crew
collects trash the second Monday of
each month in the off-season.
Tuesday, Oct. 15
WHAT: Fashion Show
WHERE: IOP Exchange Club
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Fashion show
and silent auction by Chico’s.
Hors D'oeuvres and beverages.
Proceeds to benefit homeless
veterans, VA Hospital, and
Charleston Fisher House.Tickets
are $25. For more information
please call 843.872.7875.
Thursday, Oct. 17
WHAT: Garden Club Field Trip
WHERE: Cypress Gardens
WHEN: 9:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Isle of Palms
Garden Club will meet at the
IOP Exchange Club. Tickets are
$10 ($6.50 for 65+) Open to the
public. RSVP 843.991.8983.
Friday, Oct. 18
WHAT: Ghostly Tide Tales
WHERE: 25th Avenue Beach
Access, Isle of Palms
WHEN: 6 - 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Grab your beach
chairs,blankets, and flashlights
for a night of spooky fun on the
beach. This is a free event, open
to all ages.
Saturday, Oct. 19
WHAT: Beach Lovers Book Club
(Adults)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Join us to discuss
“Killers of the Flower Moon” by
David Graham.
Sunday, Oct. 20
WHAT: Fall Festival
WHERE: First United Methodist
Church, Isle of Palms
WHEN: 3 - 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Fun and festivities
include a jump castle, games,
trunk or treat, food and lots more.
770.317.4399.
Monday, Oct. 21
WHAT: Hour of Art (Teens)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Create a work of
art in response to this month’s
TeenTober prompt: I am fearless.
Tuesday, Oct. 22
WHAT:Toddler Storytime and
Kidstruction Zone (ages 2-3
with an adult)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN:10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy picture books
and sing-a-longs then have fun
building on a grand scale with
Megablox and giant Lincoln Logs.
WHAT: POE-try Writers Group
(Adults)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Gather with fellow
poets to share and improve your
work.
Friday, Oct. 25
WHAT: School’s Out STEM:
Botley Robot Play (Everyone)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: You don’t have to be
little to enjoy programming Botley
Robots.
WHAT: Pumpkin Painting
WHERE: IOP Rec
WHEN: 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: Come paint
a pumpkin at the rec. All
materials supplied. Cost is $5,
and advanced registration is
recommended. 843.886.8294.
October 26
Saturday, Oct. 26
WHAT: Indigo Dye Workshop
(Adults and Teens)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Participate in a
hands-on indigo dye class to learn
the plant-to-pigment dye process.
Call 843-883-3914 to reserve your
spot.
WHAT: Indigo in the Fabric
of Early South Carolina
Discussion (Adults)
WHERE: Poe Branch Library
WHEN: 12 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join CCPL’s
historian, Dr. Nic Butler, for
an illustrated overview of the
historical context of indigo’s rise
and fall in early South Carolina.
WHAT: Fall Festival
WHERE: Towne Centre, Mt. Pleasant
WHEN: 12 - 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Trick or treating, pet
costume contest, arts and crafts,
kids’ activities. Emceed by 102.5’s
Brian Cleary. 843.216.9900.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY ‘WHERE TO’ MAP ADVERTISERS
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. $$
885-6303
www.facebook.com/cafepanameiop
1202 Palm Blvd., A, Isle of Palms
Coconut Joe’s &
Island Joe’s Coffee
Spectacular views of the Atlantic on the
rooftop bar and live music every night
during the summer. $-$$.
Island Joe’s next door featuring coffee and
ice cream. $
886-0046
coconutjoes.biz
1120 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
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
FOOD GUIDE
GO
EAT
island eats
High Thyme www.papisiop.com
A small island bistro, with a wide range 843.926.PAPI (7274)
of dishes, from seafood, tapas on Tuesday,
and a Sunday brunch. $$-$$$ Poe’s Tavern
843.883.3536 Famous for their gourmet burgers and
highthymecuisine.com chicken sandwiches, this Poe-inspired
2213 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island eatery also features great deals on fresh
fish tacos. $$
Home Team BBQ 883-0083
Not limited to barbeque, this casual eatery longislandcafesc.com
also serves salads, wraps, tacos, and 2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
quesadillas, Sunday Brunch. $$
843.883.3131 Refuge
hometeambbq.com Enjoy morning coffee with fresh bagels
2209 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island and pastries from the coffee bar and
dinner or lunch at the restaurant along
Luke N Ollie with signature cocktails.
Easygoing storefront pizza shop with www.therefugeiop.com
outdoor seating serving an array of Italian 1517 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms
mainstays.
843-242-8121 Saltworks Dockside Deli
lukenollies.com Located inside the Isle of Palms Marina
1101-C, Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms Market, come enjoy breakfast, smoothies,
and sandwiches. $-$$
Mex1 883-3355
Hip eatery serving Mexican favorites, saltworkscc.com
including tacos & tortas, with an island 50 41st Ave, Isle of Palms
vibe. Live music, outdoor seating. $$
882-8172 Seabiscuit Cafe
mex1coastalcantina.com A bright, cozy cafe with nautical touches
2205 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island serving a simple menu of homestyle
breakfast & lunch. $-$$
Middle St Market facebook.com/seabiscuitcafeiop
Deli sandwiches, fresh salads, gourmet 21 JC Long Blvd, Isle of Palms
groceries, and locally-sourced products
and gifts from the team behind Home Sullivan’s
Team BBQ. $ Grab a casual dinner of fried flounder or
843.516.4660 crab cakes in a cozy atmosphere as well as
middlestreetmarket.com lunch on the weekends. $$
2213 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island 883-3222
saltstation22.com
Morgan Creek Grill 2019 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island
Relax with a front row seat on the
Intracoastal Waterway while enjoying Windjammer
fresh seafood and southern hospitality. $$ Lively spot with a bar menu, a deck
886-8980 overlooking the water, and beach volleyball
morgancreekgrill.com court out back.$-$$
8040 1st Ave, Isle of Palms 886-8596
the-windjammer.com
The Obstinate Daughter 1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms
Restaurant serving contemporary
Southern cuisine, pizza & pasta in a rustic,
coastal-inspired space.
$$-$$$
416-5020
theobstinatedaughter.com
2063 Middle St,Sullivan’s Island
Papi’s Taqueria
Best tacos on in IOP locally sourced and
crafted.
Located on the beautiful shores of the
Atlantic Ocean.$-$$
1012 Ocean Blvd
October 11, 2019 19

Island resident Fall brings cooler

celebrates 100 years temps, better fishing
BY GEOFF BENNETT
FOR ISLAND EYE NEWS 

F
all has arrived with cooler
weather and shorter days.
But don't put your boat
away just yet because we're
about to have the best fishing of
the year. Fishermen can continue
to find success with live bait but
artificial lures should become
increasingly effective. Take time
to get out on the water; you won't
regret it.
Redfish have been eagerly
eating live and cut bait fished on
the bottom. Mullet are pervasive
in our waters and can be easily
netted while frozen bait can be
used as a second choice. We'll rig
the bait on a size 3/0 circle hook
paired with a Carolina rig. You
can use this setup under docks
as well as on the flats. Just put
the rod in the holder and wait for
the reel to start screaming as the
fish hook themselves.
Artificial lures have begun
to really work for trout and the
traditional paddle tail design
has been great. I'll use a 1/4oz.
Kathryn Marley Magruder, centenarian. jighead and tie a loop knot to
give the lure even more action.
Vary your rate of retrieve as you
BY LAURA FOGARTY
search for fish. To make your lure
MANAGING EDITOR ISLAND EYE NEWS  even more seductive, try putting
shrimp have been working well
when suspended about two feet
below the cork. Redfish and trout
alike will eat these baits as they
pass by suspended in the water
column. Corks have been most
effective when fished along grassy
banks at mid and high tide.
With the lower temperatures,
redfish are beginning to form
bigger schools. These large
schools make for excellent sight
fishing and happy fly fishermen.
On clear days, you can see these
packs of redfish swimming in
circles with their golden backs
flashing in the sun. Take your
time when approaching the
schools and when you make your
first shot make sure to cast to
the edges so as not to spook the
school. 
See you on the water!
For over a decade, Capt. Geoff
Bennett has operated Charleston
Charter Fishing providing light
tackle charters. Clients choose
from a full menu of artificial and
live bait fishing options with
charters tailored to their desires.
USCG licensed and insured,

B
a piece of shrimp on the hook. Capt. Bennett is committed to
orn in Siler City North Carolina on Sept. 26, 1919, IOP You can use pieces of frozen or providing a safe and enjoyable
resident Kathryn Marley Magruder celebrates 100 years live shrimp and it will put a scent charter to anglers of all skill
of living young and offers some advice to the rest of us trail on your lure that is hard to levels and ages. For more
on how to do the same. Kathryn says, “Minimize stress. Live resist. information, call Capt. Bennett at
in moderation. Listen to what others say. Have at least one Even as artificial lures become
glass of chardonnay a day, and just do your best. The angels 843.324.3332, visit his website
more effective, don’t stop tossing at www.charlestoncharterfishing.
in heaven can’t do more than that!” those popping corks. Mud com or email him at captain@
Happy Birthday, Ms. Kathryn, cheers to 100 more! minnows, live shrimp and artificial charlestoncharterfishing.com.

off-island eats
Bacco
Regional Italian restaurant featuring
fresh pastas, fior di latte mozzarella and
Neapolitan style pizzas from the wood
burning oven. $$$
843.884.6969
baccocharleston.com
976 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
Bistro Toulouse
Parisian-style nook serving seasonal,
regional French dishes with a modern
twist, plus global wines. $-$$
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
Coorg
Indian cafe and coffee shop dedicated to
their native region “Coorg” also known as
“Kodagu” district.$-$$
Breakfast/Lunch 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dinner 4:30 p.m. -9 p.m.
www.coorgindiancafe.com
Fish Restaurant
Stylish area-sourced seafood spot
in Charleston Harbor Resort &
Marina, deck & rooftop bar. $$-$$$
charlestonharborfishhouse.com
843.284.7070
32 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant
Flying Biscuit
Breakfast/lunch 7 am to 3 pm. Featuring
delicious smothered biscuits. $-$$
www.flyingbiscuit.com
(843) 352-9400
794 Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant
Ghost Monkey Nano Brewery
Features a consistent rotation of locally
brewed beer made in Mount Pleasant.
Taproom, live music, food. $$
843.352.3462
ghostmonkeybrewery.com
522 Wando Ln, Mt Pleasant
H&R Sweet Shop
Famous redfish and rice, fried chicken,
shrimp, bbq ribs. $
843.884.2118
102 Royall Ave, Mt Pleasant
Jack's Cosmic Dogs
Kitschy space-themed spot serving hot
dogs topped with creative condiments, plus
Kid Cashew
A place to have fun while enjoying food
you crave and drinks that work. Our menu
is inspired by the Mediterranean and the
beauty of Charleston.$-$$
www.kidcashewcharleston.com
(843) 352-7585
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt Pleasant
Rusty Rudder
Easygoing hangout offering American eats
such as BBQ, seafood & steak, plus a bar
& outdoor seats. $$
843.388.3177
rustyruddermtp.com
3563 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant
Sewee Restaurant
Southern-style seafood & other fried fare
in a casual joint with checkered tables &
homey decor. $$ your island hair salon
843.928.3609
seeweerestaurantinc.com 843-883-9101
4808 N Hwy 17, Awendaw
2205 Middle St, Sullivan's Island
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 TO ADVERTISE IN THE
selection and outdoor seating. $$
843.388.6968 DINING GUIDE CALL

886 6397
(843) 936-3176 sides & ice cream. $ stackscoastalkitchen.com
1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt Pleasant 884-7677 1440 Ben Sawyer Blvd, Mt. Pleasant
jackscosmicdogs.com
2805 N Hwy 17, Mt Pleasant
www.islandeyenews.com