DAUFUSKIE ISLAND, SC
THE FRONT PORCH Neighborly News for Residents and Visitors
www.DaufuskieIslandFrontPorch.com
Issue No. 87 |Spring
In This Issue Thank You!, 3
Doorway to Daufuskie, 5 Daufuskie Dundee, 5 Island Election, 6-7 Wedding Announcement, 7 Marsh Tacky Society, 8 Birds of Daufuskie, 8 Get to Know an Islander, 9 Spring Beach Sweep, 10 Photo Contest Winners, 11 Council News, 12 DI Historical Foundation News, 13 DI Fire District News, 13 DI Conservancy News, 14
Behind the Scenes Interested in submitting photos or articles to the Daufuskie Island Front Porch? For submission information or rate sheet, email us at: info@daufuskieislandfrontporch.com PUBLISHER Paula Nickels info@daufuskieislandfrontporch.com DESIGN Heather Bragg heather@braggmedia.com 77 Fuskie Lane Daufuskie Island, SC 29915 www.daufuskieislandfrontporch.com ©2015 DAUFUSKIE ISLAND FRONT PORCH All rights reserved by copyright. The Daufuskie Front Porch is published quarterly and distributed on Daufuskie Island. While we have made every effort to ensure information contained herein is accurate, no warranty implied or otherwise is made. This newsletter or parts thereof must not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. The publisher does not make any representation to opinions and facts.
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Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
YEAR OF THE OYSTER (YOTO) 2016 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS The schedule below (current as of Feb. 25) reflects a coordinated effort by the DI Conservancy, the DI Historical Foundation, the Haig Point Naturalist Program and the Coastal Discovery Museum in Hilton Head. Please contact Jenny Hersch at 413-717-2167 or herschbiz@aol.com, or check http://daufuskieislandfrontporch.com/, Daufuskie Island NEXTDOOR.com, www.daufuskieislandconservancy.org or http://www.daufuskiemuseum.org/for more information and updates. Ongoing — Oyster shell recycling collection site, Daufuskie Island Rum Company Monday February 29 — YOTO Launch Party Wednesday March 9 — Julie Davis (South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium’s Living Marine Resources Extension Specialist) “Oyster Farms - Handcrafting Oysters in South Carolina: A Partnership with Mother Nature”, 2pm at the Island House at Melrose Resort Wednesday April 6 — DI Conservancy presents: Field trip to Nemours Plantation in Yemassee SC - limited to 14 participants Tuesday April 12 — Larry Lepionka (Archaeological Investigator), “Tabby Construction in the Low Country” Monday April 25 — DI Historical Foundation presents: Field trip to Pin Point Heritage Museum in Savannah Wednesday May 4 — Nancy Hadley (SC DNR), “Oysters” May (date TBD) — Field trip to Lady’s Island Oyster Farm May (date TBD) — DI Conservancy presents: Nicholas Wallover (SC DNR), “Beach Tagging Horseshoe Crabs” Wednesday June 8 — Peter Kingsley-Smith (SC DNR) “Living Shoreline” Tuesday June 14 — Coastal Discovery Museum presents: Field trip to Sea Pines Preserve -Shell Ring Dig Wednesday June 22 — Coastal Discovery Museum presents: Field trip to Sea Pines PreserveShell Ring Dig June (date TBD) — DI Conservancy presents: The Daufuskie Island Turtle Team “Tour of Sea Turtle Nests” Wednesday July 20 — DI Conservancy presents: Bruce Campbell (USGS), “Groundwater” Wednesday August 31 — DI Conservancy presents: David Harter (Hilton Head Reef Foundation), “South Carolina’s Deep Water Artificial Reef System” Sunday September 11 — The Haig Point Naturalist Program presents: Ben Dyar (SC DNR), “Oyster Reef Restoration” September (date TBD) — Joy Davis (The Nature Conservancy), Field trip w/ Coastal Expeditions in Charleston September (date TBD) — DI Conservancy presents: Beaufort County Recycling Coordinator’s “Eco-Cycler’s program” Wednesday October 12 — DI Conservancy presents: Amy Scaroni PhD (Clemson Extension Carolina Clear), “Water Quality - We All Live Downstream!” Thursday November 10 — DI Historical Foundation presents: Field trip to Port Royal Sound Foundation Maritime Center in Okatie Saturday November 12 — Author Rowan Jacobsen, “The Essential Oyster” December — YOTO Grand Finale To receive a weekly email update on Daufuskie events and happenings, sign up for our email list at info@daufuskieislandfrontporch.com Be sure to check out the new service directory page on our website! Go to www.daufuskieislandfrontporch.com
YOTO continued from page 1
Thank You!
The Daufuskie Island Front Porch would like to thank our generous sponsors and all who participated in our 2015 Trot & Gobble and Taste of Daufuskie! GOLD SPONSORSHIP Bloody Point POA Melrose POA
SILVER SPONSORSHIP Len & Eileen Pojednic Menzies - Creative Catering Ursula Rigg Bruce & Desi Jamrozy Jim & Kate Woodward Palmetto Propane Billy & Cathy O’Keefe Daufuskie Island Rum Co John & Paulette Hinchey
BRONZE SPONSORSHIP Chuck & Gwyn Henry Bob Greene Fred & Nancy Ludtke Carlyle & Sally Roberts Jim & Barb Camino Larry & Valerie Post Dick & Sharyn Arnold Jeff & Susan Busch Jack & Madge Ziegler Rich & Gayle Silver Gary & Kathryn Steward Reagan & Debbie Hull Joh & Becky Flask Crane’s Tavern Charlie & Arden Small Delura Knight Dave & Linda Carlson Robert & Karen Catlin Red Gate Construction/Steve Casey Joe & Jill Tanner Klaus & Bayne Birckenstaedt Mike & Cathy Andrews
Daufuskie Wine & Woodworks George & Karen Rafferty Vic & Ann Speck Chuck & Mary Fowler Wally & Tana Hoffman Chris & Lisa Butler Frank & Suzy Wylie John & Martha Tarrant
DONORS Art & Joanne Helmus Gary & Judy Vaccaro Harvey & Ginny Teerlink Doug Noonan Jack & Jo Hill Jim & Gerri Howe Nino DiLullo Dave & Debbie McKeeman Sea Island Trails The Frosty Frog Silver Dew Pottery Freeport General Store Bloody Point Golf Club Haig Point Equestrian Center Melrose Laura Duggan
TASTE OF DAUFUSKIE
Special thanks to our Taste of Daufuskie Participants and Judges: Old Daufuskie Crab Company Marshside Mama’s Haig Point Melrose on the Beach The Eagles Nest Java Burrito The Frosty Frog The Lucky Rooster DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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Old Daufuskie Crab Company 843-785-6652
Spring here at the Crab Company means live music and longer hours! We will be open from 11am-9pm everyday beginning in March! We will also have live music Saturdays and Sundays! Check our website or Facebook for the Band Schedule! Trivia Tuesdays! Every Tuesday we will be having Trivia starting at 6pm. Join in on the fun and test your wits against other Islanders!
Freeport Marina 843-785-8242
The Freeport General Store is open from 8am-5pm. It is your one-stop spot for groceries, gas, cigarettes, souvenirs and more! Don't forget about our 1/2 price Spartina! Come check out our new Spartina inventory for Spring! We also have dry storage for boats at the marina.
Cabin Rentals
Make sure you book early! Our cabins are already filling up for weekends and holidays! Visit our website to view pictures and prices. You can make a reservation by calling the General Store!
ABC Store:
Our ABC Store has all your liquor needs! Stop by Monday-Satuday from 10am-5pm. We even sell Daufuskie Island Rum!
Bloody Point Lighthouse
We are so excited about all the work being done at the Bloody Point Lighthouse and Silver Dew Winery! We have recently planted Scuppernong Grapes for the Winery! We are also looking to plant Sea Island Cotton, Indigo, and Carolina Gold Rice.
Private Parties
Looking for a unique place to host a private party? Try one of our wonderful venues like the Delta Lady, Bloody Point Lighthouse, or Old Daufuskie Crab Company to host your next special event! Call the office for more information 843-342-8687.
www.EnjoyDaufuskie.com 4
Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
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Doorway to Daufuskie
he Daufuskie Island Council is working with members of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program to promote Daufuskie and assist visitors on the island to learn more of the local history and understand key places to visit. The Chamber of Commerce Leadership Team understands the importance of maintaining the character and charm of Daufuskie. They’re focusing their efforts to provide a platform for wayfinding information and education for visitors and guests that have already found their way to our island. Daufuskie Island Council members Bill Nickels and John Schartner and a special committee are working closely with the team from the Leadership Program. They’ve determined a way forward that includes placing two information kiosks at key island entry ports. The architectural design of the kiosks will consist of 2 sides, the front for the location of historic sites on Daufuskie and the obverse for the sponsors and Leadership
8’-10”
8’-5” 6’-0”
mission statement. The historic sites noted will be those listed on the popular Rob Kennedy Trail. The kiosks will be placed at the two major
entrances to Daufuskie: 1) Freeport Marina where the public ferry enters and 2) the county public landing (near Marshside Mama’s) on the south end of the island.
Olive Crazy
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know of no other fruit that has spurred so much attention, fame and glory as the olive. From Biblical times to present it still crashes along gaining momentum and fame along the way. Right now Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is in the news as both a health food and a not-so-healthy food, depending on the origin and how it’s processed from tree to plate. Even the name can be confusing and misleading at times. But the real shocker to me was that we, here on Daufuskie, live within the “Olive Belt.” (see note below) That strip of land that runs around the world on which olive trees thrive. And do they ever! They have actually carbon dated olive trees up to and perhaps passing five thousand years
by Daufuskie Dundee old!! Now that’s OLD! I planted a few olive trees several years ago and have actually harvested and salt brined two quarts of Daufuskie Olives. They were very palatable. I have visions of pressing some oil next year. They are beautiful evergreen trees and thrive here in the low country. (Not surprising the dried leaves also brew a very healthy tea.) Now I have 32 trees of 6 varieties. Thomas Jefferson imported olive trees to Savannah, Georgia. Those trees ended up on St. Simons Island and Cumberland Island. The latter still has a grove of those, now huge, olive trees. Space does not permit me to ramble on about this fascinating tree, but go to www.olivecrazy.com to learn a lot more. Also, there are now two
olive farms in Georgia that are growing and selling fresh pressed olive oil. Go to www.terradolcefarms.com This one is in Lyons, Georgia, and they have a neat video of their operation — most impressive. The next is georgiaolivefarms.com down in Lakeland, Ga. Both oils can be bought from the following web site: www.strippaggioevoo.com in Atlanta. And here’s the shocker: From: Handbook of S.C. (Resources and industries) 1908, Second Edition Chapter 2-page 349 “Tropical and sub-tropical fruits: On the Sea Islands and the coast of S.C. grow well.” See DUNDEE on page 15 DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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Island Election
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n Saturday, February 13th, Daufuskie Islanders elected Deborah Smith and Dave Hutton to fill its open Council seats and re-elected current Council Chairperson Charlie Small for a second term. Each will hold office for a three-year term. They gave us their thoughts regarding what they hope to accomplish in that time. CHARLIE SMALL Returning Council member Charlie Small believes a very good working relationship was forged between the Daufuskie and Beaufort County Councils during his last term and he would like to build on that foundation. “We’ve truly become the voice of the island now. We have established very good, ongoing
communication with the Beaufort County Council and have received great support from our Councilman Tabor Vaux.” Like most islanders, Small views transportation issue as the biggest challenge facing the island. In addition to working toward a solution in that area, elimination of the CBRA zone, the one island solution waste plan, roads and increasing Daufuskie’s tax revenue are his priorities for the next term. When asked how he feels about the Council’s progress during his first term he states, “I’ve been thrilled with the growing participation of island residents, particularly residents from the Historic District. We have many people representing all areas of the island attending meetings on a regular basis now. When I began on the Council, most often you could count the number of attendees on one hand. Now the meeting room is nearly always filled.”
DAVE HUTTON Islander Dave Hutton brings a unique perspective to the Council as the only member and one of few current residents who grew up on Daufuskie. He decided to run for the Council hoping to help steer changes on the island and give something back. Remembering the island as a child, Hutton says, “Change can be hard. It was a big deal when Haig Point Road was paved. There weren’t any paved roads outside the gated communities. Some islanders were opposed to the paving but most people recognized it as a necessity and improvement for the future.” See ELECTION on page 7
Just Daufuskie Your Local “On the Island” Real Estate Experts Featured Listings! 17 Turtle Pace; .80 Acres Historic District; Close Proximity to Freeport
$25,000
23 Masters Drive; .35 Acres Melrose; Close to all Amenities
$23,700
14 Turtle Pace; .70 Acres Historic District; Close Proximity to Freeport
$19,900
40 Masters Drive; .56 Acres Melrose; Wooded Lake Lot Close to Amenities
$17,000
278 Haig Point Rd; .69 Acres By Community Farm; Paved Rd!
$26,900
104 Primrose; .35 Acres Melrose; Lake Lot
$29,900
282 Haig Point Rd; .69 Acres By Community Farm, Paved Rd!
$26,900
75 Osprey Links; .70 Acres Haig Point Lagoon Lot
$75,000
338 School Rd; 2 Acres; Historic District; Wooded; Close to Beach
$59,900
14 Governors Pt; .41 Acres Wooded Governors Pt Lot
$29,900
292 Oakridge Ln; .56 Acres 3 Rows from Beach; Oakridge Community
$39,900
156 Prospect Rd; .56 Acres DOCK! Wooded @ Pappy’s Landing & Prospect
$129,900
298 Oakridge Ln; .61 Acres 3 Rows from Beach; Oakridge Community
$43,900
75 Prospect Rd; 1 Acre Wooded; Southern End
$14,900
Just Daufuskie.com
Dawn Hall Rodgers, Owner/BIC • 704.770.6825 • dawnhrodgers@gmail.com Trey Rodgers • 803.804.0985 • treyrodgers3@hotmail.com PO Box 39, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915
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Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
ELECTION
continued from page 6 While he believes the Daufuskie Island Council has become much more effective in dealing with Beaufort County, he hopes to help improve communication between the Council and island residents. States Hutton, “Transparency is key to gaining people’s trust and keeping islanders well informed as to the intentions and goals of the Council.” Regarding challenges that face the island Hutton says, “Obviously the lack of better ferry service is always the problem that is talked about first. It is our biggest problem and will continue to take time.” In the short term he would like to work toward a one island solution for waste removal. DEBORAH SMITH After a 30 year career in government relations, new Council member Deborah Smith moved to Daufuskie four years ago, living in a Melrose cottage she owned until the completion of her log cabin on School Road. Asked what she sees as the biggest challenges facing the island, Smith says,” I believe Daufuskie’s single greatest asset is its people. Although we have an incredibly diverse population, we are united by a deep love for this special island. Unfortunately, misunderstandings between communities and their residents can potentially keep us from moving forward as a united island but I firmly believe that together we can accomplish anything. The Council is the voice of the island, but that will only be a slogan unless residents from ALL communities on the island become participants in the process.” As a primary goal for her term Smith says, “I am especially interested in initiatives focused on implementing the Daufuskie Island Plan. It sets forth a cohesive plan designed to protect and enhance our island’s environmental, historical, and cultural assets.”
Wedding Bells
Old time islander Edgar Douglas and long time Hilton Head sweetheart Elizabeth Castles were joined in marriage on Saturday, January 2nd. The ceremony was held at the beautiful new gazebo overlooking the ocean on a picture perfect day at Melrose on the Beach. The bride was presented by Bill Boyd, and her daughter, Lucy Dyer, served as maid of honor. Mike Hartle was the best man, while islander Susan Jones presided over the joyous occasion. “It was to have been a quiet elopement but there are not many secrets on Daufuskie” Edgar laughed. The couple are living in Bluffton, but plan to return to Daufuskie full time when Lucy graduates from college in two years. Edgar and Beth send their thanks and love to all their friends and neighbors on Daufuskie and hope to see them soon!
DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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Daufuskie Marsh Tacky Society By Erica Veit, Executive Director, Daufuskie Marsh Tacky Society
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015 was the year that the Daufuskie Marsh Tacky Society materialized from a dream into reality. Aside from my lifetime passion for horses, I became enchanted with the Marsh Tacky after discovering them years ago through Hilton Head’s earliest beach races. Subsequently I’ve researched the breed, its history, heritage and everything else I could get my hands on until in 2012 I summarized what I learned into a series of oil paintings on the subject. About that same time I became a full time resident of Daufuskie Island, and I’ve never looked back. That fall, I participated in the Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival, so I showed these paintings and to my surprise I completely sold out. It was amazing to me that this seemingly obscure little horse fostered such a magnetic, common bond among certain people. I purposely saved a portion of the proceeds from my artwork to start “the fund to bring the Marsh Tacky back to Daufuskie.” Who knew how the next few years would unfold. See MARSH TACKY on page 15
Reina, who is currently 18 months old, has all the “typical” characteristics of the breed. She is dun in color, with prominent dorsal and zebra striping, a double mane and no white markings. She is calm in temperament, sweet in nature and coming along in her training very nicely. She will continue her training to become a riding horse and then around 4 years of age she will transition into a brood mare. Lucero, who is currently 9 months old, displays a unique silvery red-roan color, a slight dorsal stripe, plus four white socks and a star on his forehead. He has become quite the inquisitive character, and he is learning his halter, lead rope, grooming and feet handling lessons very quickly. He will grow up to become a riding horse and stand at stud for future Marsh Tacky generations.
Birds of Daufuskie Spring is here! The male birds are singing and looking great to attract the females. The guy with brightest colors and most beautiful song gets the girl! This is a pair of American Oystercatchers. “Spring, spring, the bird is on the wing… Absurd, absurd, the wing is on the bird” 8
Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
Get to Know an Islander Lancy Burn
The man, the myth, the legend Which talent would you most like to have? Saying the right thing at the right time, the first time.
What is your idea of perfect happiness? Sitting on a log with Emily on the beach, a cool, on-shore breeze blowing to keep the bugs off, watching the sun come up and our dog B-Bop close by keeping the pack safe.
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be? B-bop
What is your greatest fear? The breeze will stop. Which historical figure do you identify with most? Ben Franklin Which living person do you most admire? My wonderful wife Emily. She is one of the bravest people I’ve ever known. She has gone on wild adventures with me and sailed with me for thousands of miles, including twice across the Atlantic in a 28 foot sailboat named Blue Gipsy (which is behind the Silver Dew Pottery as we speak). During events that have gone awry or severe storms at sea I have told her to do some very difficult and dangerous things and even though she knew it was dangerous, she just calmly did it. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Laziness. Putting things off and then going into warp-drive to get it done. Like this questionnaire. What is the trait you most deplore in others? I can’t-do-it-ness. My mother would get really mad if I said, “I can’t do that.” She would make me look her in the eye and she would say precisely and firmly say, “Tell me you don’t want to do this, tell me you don’t know how to do this, but do NOT tell me you CAN’T do this. You can do anything, ANYTHING, you want to do.” Folks, it’s like learning to ride a bike. You can read about it. You can talk about it, but you have to get on the bike, and when you fall down, get up and get back on that bike. If you know how to ride a bike, the world is wide open to you. Get on that bike and ride!
Daufuskie Island artist and Silver Dew Pottery owner Lancy Burn and his wife, Emily What is your favorite journey? Sailing Blue Gipsy from Copenhagen, Denmark to Daufuskie Island, accomplishing the dream both my grandfather and my father talked about: “One of these days I’m going to sail a little sloop, about 30 feet long and sail across that ocean.” I was ten years old when I decided that I was the one who would do that thing. And I did. What is your greatest extravagance? Buying Blue Gipsy. It took me ten years of my adult life to buy that boat in Copenhagen, Denmark and sail her home. What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Tolerance On what occasion do you lie? When the truth just won’t fit. Which living person do you most dislike? Oh… well, I’m not going political on this. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Oh sssnot oh dear! What is your greatest regret? Not getting a ride on the space shuttle. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Emily, the only love of my life. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being alive.
What is your most treasured possession? My soul. It’s the only thing you can/will take with you when we leave this life. Treat it with love and care. What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery? April 15th… taxes. What is your favorite occupation? Of all the things I do and have done, pottery is the most basic and profound work. Each piece is a unique, special and one of a kind creation. That’s why GOD made man from clay. What is your most marked characteristic? I leave people alone. What is the quality you most like in a man? Leaving me alone. What is the quality you most like in a woman? Acting like a real woman. What do you most value in your friends? Forgiveness Who are your favorite writers? Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jules Verne, Robert Service Who is your favorite fictional hero? Hagar the Horrible Who are your heroes in real life? My father What is it you most dislike? Flat beer What is your motto? Where there’s a will, there’s an heir. DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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Spring Beach Sweep on Daufuskie Saturday, April 23 • 3pm Beach Road Gazebo at Bloody Point & Calibogue Beach Club at Haig Point
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he Daufuskie Island Conservancy is organizing a Spring Beach Sweep for April 23 to celebrate Earth Day this year. Volunteers are asked to gather at one of two locations on Daufuskie: • Beach Road Gazebo at Bloody Point • Calibogue Beach Club at Haig Point Last April, 50 volunteers scoured 5-plus miles of beachfront and, in addition to filling 32 trash bags, more than 200 pieces of wood and construction materials and larger debris (buried tanks, fiberglass boat
decks, and an assortment of fishing gear) were hauled to the county dump. Please plan to join us to clean up the shoreline around Daufuskie. Aquatic debris is a danger to our wildlife, our safety and our economy. Fish, birds, turtles and other animals often mistake trash for food. As a result, animals get entangled in or ingest litter with deadly results. Daufuskie Island is so fortunate to have such a variety of aquatic life in our waters. More information to come as the date approaches.
Just Daufuskie Your Local “On the Island” Real Estate Experts 2015 was a wonderful year for us being our first year as primary residences here on this Beautiful Island.! After being here for year now, we are even more excited to be here doing what we love. SELLING REAL ESTATE. We feel this place is so Magical and look forward to continuing to share this majestic place in 2016. Should you need assistance this year with your real estate needs, please let our love of the Island and our over 20 years experience each assist you in your goals. Respectfully, Dawn and Trey Rodgers
JustDaufuskie.com Dawn Hall Rodgers, Owner/BIC • 704.770.6825 • dawnhrodgers@gmail.com Trey Rodgers • 803.804.0985 • treyrodgers3@hotmail.com PO Box 39, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915 10
Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
Photo Contest Winners Congratulations to our Front Porch Photo Contest Winners!
1st Place — Dolly Blackwood
2nd Place — Allison Wilson 3rd Place — Deborah Smith
Fwd: Help with Editing: Photo 2 - House/Santa version 2 Deborah Smith to you
Today on AOL New Mail Old Mail Drafts
show details
show image slideshow
Paula 474
ok; thanks. I can't find the edition with details about the contest. I'm going to go ahead and send this one in, which I'll call "A Fus Happy holidays to you folks!!
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Deborah
Sent Spam Recently Delet… Contacts Calendar My Folders Saved Mail
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Saved Chats Apple Mail To … Archive Levi420785@… Notes
DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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FROM T HE DAUFUSKIE ISL AND COUNCIL
Council Working on Priority Projects
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he Daufuskie Inland Council is applying for County funding for several Daufuskie Island Plan priority projects. Beaufort County has formed a Capital Sales Tax Commission to develop a list of infrastructure projects to be funded by a county-wide sales tax increase. Daufuskie Island Council-members have made several presentations to County committees outlining several priority projects which, if approved, could improve life on our island. The Council has nominated four projects: • $1 million for a 30-40-passenger ferry that could carry cargo and be incorporat-
ed into a public-private partnership with the county. • $1.5 million to help the county acquire rights of way on several roads necessary to build water and sewer infrastructure and complete other upgrades • $2 million to purchase and develop a single waste disposal site for all island communities, where residential and commercial waste and recyclable material could be collected and disposed of off the island • $4.5 million to help prevent erosion at Driftwood Beach threatening homes and sea turtle habitats
Photographs Wanted
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o you have photographs taken on Daufuskie from the 1880s to the 1980s? If so, please consider submitting them for possible inclusion in a new book about Daufuskie Island that will be published by Arcadia Publishing (Charleston) for their Images of America series — https://www.arcadiapublishing.com Sallie Ann Robinson and Jenny Hersch will compile the images (240 are needed) and with help from island residents and contributors will write captions for each photograph that describe the scene and set the tone. Do you have old maps, diagrams, documents, receipts, labels, architectural renderings or artifacts? We can include those as well! We will schedule several community gatherings over the next six months to review the material to be certain that everyone’s story is told. This will be great for Daufuskie. Please join us! For more information, contact Jenny Hersch at 413-717-2167 or herschbiz@aol.com. 12
Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
On February 15th, Chuck Hunter and several Daufuskie Council Members presented the projects to Beaufort County’s Public Facilities Committee. The Committee understood the need for all the projects and recommended three move on for further review. Concerning beach erosion, they agreed it is a serious concern, however they couldn’t approve the project because the homes are on private property. The package of the three remaining projects were approved to move on to the Capital Project Tax Commission for review and hopefully approval.
COTTAGE FOR SALE Haig Point — 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bath Overlooking the 10th fairway, lagoon and Clubhouse on a cul de sac — 2,520 sq ft MEMBERSHIP OPTIONAL
• Large great room/kitchen with large counter space, many cabinets, and living room, all with oak floors • Large 2 golf cart barn • Wood burning fireplace • Walk-in attic in addition to large roof attic that is expandable Call 843-384-7928 for appointment Ellen Vogel — owner/agent
The Sarah Grant Carriage before (left) and after its restoration. A dedication ceremony will be held April 2nd at the Billie Burn Museum Complex.
FROM THE DAUFUSKIE ISLAND HISTORICAL FOUNDATION
Sarah Grant Midwife Carriage Restoration
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t’s back… and it is gorgeous!!! On Thursday, February 4, Sarah Grant’s carriage returned to the island and to its new enclosure at the Billie Burn Museum Complex. The island midwife’s carriage had spent six months at the Leola Cart Shop in Leola, Pennsylvania, where it was meticulously restored by Amish craftsmen. The carriage was built in the late 1880’s by the Chatham Carriage Company in Savannah and was owned by Daufuskie resident Jim Goodwin before being sold to Sarah Grant. The carriage is described as a light runabout buggy, easily pulled by a single
horse. Sarah Grant would hitch her horse Tillman to the carriage and travel the island to help bring new island residents into the world. Over a 37-year period, she “grannied” 130 babies, retiring in 1969. The Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation declared the restoration of the carriage its 2015 project and, thanks to the generosity of its membership and others, was able to accomplish this goal. To celebrate the return of the carriage, there will be a dedication ceremony on Saturday, April 2, at 4 pm at the Billie Burn Museum Complex. All are welcome to attend to cel-
ebrate the restoration of this important bit of island history and the life of this remarkable woman.
SAVE THE DATE: April 25
The Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation has scheduled a field trip to the Pin Point Heritage Museum just south of Savannah. Attendees will visit its old oyster factory building and be immersed in the Gullah/Geechee history of the site. This event is part of the island-wide celebration of the Year of the Oyster (YOTO). Details to follow.
FROM T HE DAUFUSKIE ISL AND FIRE DISTRICT
Check Those Smoke Detectors
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aylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 13. So when you change your clocks, check your smoke detector batteries. Make sure that all are in proper working order. Smoke detectors can save lives. If you need a residential smoke detector, they are available to island residents at no charge. Stop by the fire station to get one or call the fire station at 843-785-8358 and we will deliver them to your home. The Daufuskie Island Fire District is working — with you — for a fire-safe Daufuskie Island. DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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FROM T HE DAUFUSKIE ISL AND CONSERVANCY
Leadership Changes
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aura Winholt, president of the DI Conservancy for the past eight years, turned the reins over to newly elected president, Mike Loftus. Thanks to Laura for her leadership and accomplishments, and welcome Mike! Paul Wolff, part-time Daufuskie resident, has been elected to serve a two-year term on the Board of Directors. Paul has many accomplishments in recycling and renewable energy, and recently won the 2015 Solar Advocate Award from GA Solar. Chase Allen, full-time Daufuskie resident, has been elected to serve a two-year term on the Board of Directors. Chase designed the Conservancy’s logo and has vast experience in website development and marketing. Karen Opderbeck, full-time Daufuskie resi-
Coastal Properties
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dent, served her last term on the Board of Directors. Karen volunteered many hours of time on the One Island Solution and continues to coordinate the Recycling Center in Haig Point. Many thanks to Karen for her dedication and hard work.
Amazon Smile Partnership The Daufuskie Island Conservancy is registered with Amazon Smile. By signing up on Amazon Smile, .5% of your purchases will be matched by the Amazon Smile Foundation and will be contributed to the Daufuskie Island Conservancy. The price of your items will be the same as when you shop on Amazon. To sign up for Amazon Smile, go to www.smile. amazon.com.
THE BEAVOR MCCALLION TEAM DAUFUSKIE ISLAND COLLECTION
22 PROSPECT RD $789,000
20 PROSPECT RD $650,000
2 WELCOME BREEZE CT $389,000
2 MASTERS CT $369,000
18 PORT PASSAGE $1,025,000
4 LOCH LOMOND CT $419,000
19 OSPREY LANE $289,000
1 PLANTATION HOMES $149,000
Spring 2016 | DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH
DUNDEE continued from page 5 From a recent issue of Philadelphia Grit the following was taken. “It has been the generally accepted belief that the olives were first grown in America by the Mission Fathers of California, but the first olives in America were planted along the coast of SC long before colonial times. During the American Revolution there was a 10 acre bearing olive grove on the south shore of Port Royal entrance. When the Civil War commenced some of these trees were living. At its close only the stumps remained. It is supposed that the soldiers had encamped and cut the trees down for fire wood. The surrounding woods is said to be full of wild olive trees, the birds having carried the seeds from the ancient trees. The old olive grove was on the “Foot Point” plantation. Olives today are grown in Beaufort.” That’s it mates… Have a warm winter and we’ll see you in the Spring and maybe plant some olive trees. You can get them from www.isons.com. Cheers mates, Daufuskie Dundee
Olive tree
MARSH TACKY continued from page 8 Fast forward to 2013 and the Marsh Tacky Beach Races on Daufuskie Island. With help from a small army of dedicated people, in just 90 (insane, lol) days from development to execution we raised $2,500 for the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association and put on what turned out to be the largest special event in the history of Daufuskie. Working closely with the pillars of the Marsh Tacky community I was able to forge a strong relationship with Mr. DP Lowther, credited as the Grandfather of the Marsh Tacky for his efforts in preserving and growing the breed. It is by his graces and from his farm that the new Daufuskie Marsh Tacky herd is born. In winter of 2014, I began outlining the steps to formalize the Daufuskie Marsh Tacky Society. Throughout the following months I worked with a small team to define our organization’s purpose. Our mission was developed: To promote, protect and establish the endangered Marsh Tacky Horse in the context of its historical roots on Daufuskie Island for preservation, promotional and enrichment purposes. Through comprehensive breeding, training
and sales programming, plus educational and special events, our goals are to ensure the breed’s longevity, to raise public awareness, and to enrich the public tourism experience on the island. I am amazed at the accomplishments made in just the last few months. Very, very, very sincere thanks to all who have given so generously as we could not have done it without you. Per our mission, in November we held our inaugural special event, the Hook n’ Shuck fishing tournament and oyster roast. We are already positioned to double the sponsorships and prizes for 2016 and growing that event into a new, annually recurring tradition on the island. Regarding all of our capital improvements in progress, which I fondly call “Phase 1,” next time you are near Freeport Marina please stop by, I would love to show you around and introduce you to the horses. Most recently, our application for 501c3 non profit status was successfully completed and received by the IRS. The award letter may take another month or so for processing, but meanwhile all donations are fully tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. To see our 2015 Annual Report
and links to us on social media, visit our website: daufuskiemarshtackysociety.org. Looking forward to 2016 we are very humbled, encouraged and excited. We will be bringing on two new Marsh Tackies to the herd around the end of March. We are going to celebrate the past 6 months by throwing an informal “Barn Raising” party shortly thereafter. So mark your calendars, be there or be square, date TBA. We have plans to increase educational outreach by growing our partnerships, website and social media footprint, plus hosting some hands-on opportunities throughout this summer’s tourism season with a focus on natural horsemanship. So far we have another TV episode filming featuring the Marsh Tacky on Daufuskie scheduled for May. As the year progresses, there will be volunteer, internship and sponsorship opportunities that you won’t want to miss. These horses are about so much more that meets the eye — the pride, history, heritage and legacy that they represent for Daufuskie Island, South Carolina belongs to all of us and it should be celebrated by everyone! DAUFUSKIE FRONT PORCH | Spring 2016
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