Southeastern Wildlife Expo

Twenty-Seventh Annual

February 13-15, 2009

Charleston, South Carolina

An advertising supplement to the post and courier • Wednesday, February 11, 2009

| Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

An advertising supplement to The Post and Courier

An advertising supplement to The Post and Courier

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 |

SEWE

contents

SEWE poster artist Thomas Broo ks

7 9

Map

Shuttle stops, event locations and more

Schedule Read about the events and mark your calendar

11 Charleston Artist Guild Local organization joins SEWE in a natural partnership

12 Featured Artist Thomas Brooks tells today’s stories on canvas

14 DockDogs A fast-growing canine sport makes a big splash

16 Jim and Jamie Dutcher Filmmakers document six years living among wolves

18 Scott Ian Barry Photographer captures the true spirit of the wolf

20 The Sites of SEWE A closer look at the places that welcome SEWE

26 Lowcountry Flavor

Local food vendors present a variety of tastes for the whole family

29 LEEP

Lowcountry Environmental Education Programs encourages outdoor discovery

What: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition When: February 13 – 15, 2009 Where: Downtown in various locations Hours: Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TICKETS: Friday or Saturday: $20/day Sunday: $10/day 3-day pass: $40 Children 10 and under: FREE T ickets available during SEWE show hours at Charleston Place, Gaillard Auditorium, Marion Square, Brittlebank Park, The Mills House Hotel and Charleston Marriott.

Also available in advance and during the expo at all Charleston Area Visitors’ Centers and the Gaillard Auditorium (hours vary by location).

F

or one weekend each year, Charleston roars to life with the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, the nation’s largest wildlife art and nature event. Now in its 27th year, the expo showcases original paintings, carvings and sculpture by some of the most gifted artists in the wildlife art genre, as well as photography, gifts and collectibles, conservation exhibits, family activities and more.

Look inside this guide for a map and schedule information, a profile on the featured artist, and get all the details about exciting events like DockDogs and presentations by Jim and Jamie Dutcher, the couple who spent six years living with wolves in Idaho. Spread out in various venues all over the city, SEWE takes over downtown Charleston this weekend.

Come out and see what all the roaring is about!

Corporate Partners Southeastern Wildlife Exposition depends on the support of our Corporate Partners, and we are especially grateful this year, given the downturn of the economy. We thank each of them, and encourage our attendees to support their businesses as they support us.

SCANA Ch arleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Wachovia Ginn Resorts Piggly Wiggly Carolina Inc. The Post and Courier AAA Rentals and All Occasions

AirTran Airways AT&T Azalea Moving & Storage BP America Baker Motor Co. Inc. Buck Ridge Plantation CHART Group Clear Channel Radio Charleston

Dixon Hughes Garden & Gun The Mills House Hotel National Museum of Wildlife Art Nexsen Pruet LLC Pearlstine Distributors Inc. Yaschik Development Co. Inc.

For more info: (843) 723-1748 or www.sewe.com

2009 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009 An advertising supplement to The Post and Courier

| Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

Cathleen Barrie, niche division editor Melissa Kelley, graphic designer Stephanie Burt, contributing writer, Kim Catanzarite, contributing writer, Mary Clark Coy, contributing writer, Eugenia Payne, contributing writer

An advertising supplement to The Post and Courier

An advertising supplement to The Post and Courier

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 |

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PC-38286 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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2009 Locations & Featured Attractions BRITTLEBANK/ MARRIOTT ROUTE

7

MEETING STREET ROUTE

at-a-glance

S

8

AREA ENLARGED

1

Ch arleston Place 205 Meeting St.

2

Ri viera Theatre King & Market streets

3

The Mills House Hotel 115 Meeting St.

4

Gaillard Auditorium 77 Calhoun St.

5

Marion Square Park Calhoun Street, between Meeting & King streets

6

PARKING SEWE BUS STOP

getting there: BUS SERVICE: During regular show hours, bus service between all SEWE venues is provided at no additional cost for all SEWE ticket and badge holders.

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• Original paintings • Sculpture • Fine jewelry • Book signings • Antique & contemporary nature prints • Skins For Conservation • SEWE Headquarters • VIP Hospitality Suite • SEWE souvenirs • Tickets

• Lectures

• Carvings • VIP Hospitality Suite • Tickets

• Busch Wildlife Sanctuary shows • “Living with Wolves” presentations • Wildlife gifts & collectibles • Knife makers • Jr. Duck Stamps • Taste of the Town (local food vendors) • SEWE posters and souvenirs • Tickets • Retriever demos • Center for Birds of Prey demos • Conservation exhibits • Exotic petting zoo • Edisto Island Serpentarium • Children’s craft making • Pony and camel rides • Kids for Conservation art display • Power Rock climbing and Spider Jump • Live music • SEWE souvenirs • Taste of the Town (local food vendors) • Tickets Embassy Suites 337 Meeting St. • S.C. Migratory Duck Stamp and print display

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Brittlebank Park Lockwood Boulevard

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Charleston Marriott 170 Lockwood Blvd.

A

B C

HANDICAP ACCESS: Handicap accessible transportation is available; please let the Swept Away employee at the stop know and they will radio for a pickup.

PARKING: Additional Brittlebank/Marriott parking is available Feb. 14 and Feb.15 for a flat rate of $5. Follow signage on Lockwood Boulevard past the Charleston Marriott. No parking allowed in grassy areas in front of Brittlebank.

SEWE Venues

D

• DockDogs® competitions • Retriever demos • Sporting Village • Marine Village • Live music • Food vendors • SEWE souvenirs • Tickets • Charleston Artist Guild exhibit • Nature photography • Decoys • Sporting arms • VIP Hospitality Suite • Tickets

Featured Attractions

NOTE: Some locations may require purchase of separate ticket.

Charleston Museum 360 Meeting St.

SEWE ticket/badge holders receive a $1 discount on tickets. Exhibits during SEWE include “From Slave to Sharecropper: African Americans in the Lowcountry after the Civil War” and “Brilliant!: Ancient to Modern Lighting.” Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Charleston Visitor Center/Bus Shed 375 Meeting St. • Visitor Information • SEWE Soiree • Ducks Unlimited oyster roast • Tickets

Gibbes Museum of Art 135 Meeting St.

SEWE ticket/badge holders receive a $2 discount on tickets.

Exhibits during SEWE include “Painters of American Life: The Eight,” “The American Scene on Paper: Prints and Drawings from the Schoen Collection,” and “The Charleston Story.”

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m.

South Carolina Aquarium 100 Aquarium Wharf SEWE ticket holders receive $2 off general admission; VIP badge holders receive half off. www.scaquarium.org or 843-577-FISH (3474).

Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday noon-5 p.m.

Last admission at 4 p.m.

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 |

| Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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Schedule of Events Wednesday, February 11 5:30 p.m.

Featured Artist’s Reception (badge required). Sponsored by The Mills House Hotel. Benefactors admitted at 5:30; Patrons admitted at 7. The Mills House Hotel

Thursday, February 12 1-5 p.m.

7 p.m.

Preview Afternoon (badge required) Charleston Place & The Mills House Hotel Preview Night Gala and Sale (appropriate badge required). Charleston Place

Friday, February 13

10 a.m.-6 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3 p.m.

3 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

4 p.m.

4 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6-8 p.m.

All exhibits open DockDogs registration opens Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Big Air Wave #1 Brittlebank Park Retriever Demonstrations Marion Square “Living with Wolves” Presentation Gaillard Auditorium Lecture: “Introduction to Plein Air Painting” by Heiner Hertling Art Institute of Charleston, 24 N. Market St. Retriever Demonstrations Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Big Air Wave #2 Brittlebank Park Birds of Prey Demonstrations Marion Square Fly-Fishing Demonstrations Brittlebank Park Lecture: “Wolf Empire” by Scott Ian Barry Riviera Theatre Retriever Demonstrations Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Big Air Wave #3 Brittlebank Park Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Animal Show Gaillard Auditorium Quick Draw/Speed Sculpt Charleston Place Retriever Demonstrations Marion Square Cast Net Demonstrations Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Speed Retrieve Heat #1 Brittlebank Park Auction following QuickDraw/Speed Sculpt Charleston Place Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast (separate ticket required) Enjoy great food, beverages, music and a live auction. Advance tickets: (843) 224-5142 or www.scducks.org. Tickets on sale at door if still available. Charleston Visitor Center Bus Shed SEWE King Street Stroll (no ticket required). Nearly 50 merchants will offer light refreshments and feature SEWE artists at work. King Street

Saturday, February 14 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

9-10 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11 a.m.

ALL EXHIBITS OPEN Early Bird Hour (badge required) Charleston Place & The Mills House Hotel DockDogs registration opens Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Big Air Wave #4 Brittlebank Park Retriever Demonstrations Marion Square Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Animal Show Gaillard Auditorium

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11 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

2 p.m.

3 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

4 p.m.

4 p.m.

7 p.m.

Lecture: “Passion for Nature: Scientific Art of Natural History”

by Gilbert Johnston Riviera Theatre Retriever Demonstrations Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Speed Retrieve Heat #2 Brittlebank Park Birds of Prey Demonstrations Marion Square Cast Net Demonstrations Brittlebank Park Lecture: “LEEP Program” by Ian Sanchez Riviera Theatre DockDogs – Big Air Wave #5 Brittlebank Park Retriever Demonstrations Brittlebank Park “Living with Wolves” Presentation Gaillard Auditorium Retriever Demonstrations Marion Square DockDogs – Extreme Vertical Brittlebank Park Fly-Fishing Demonstrations Marion Square SEWE Soiree (separate ticket required; must be 21 or older) Sponsored by Wachovia. Charleston Visitor Center Bus Shed

Sunday, February 15 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

11 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

Noon

Noon

Noon

12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

2 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3 p.m.

3:15 p.m.

ALL EXHIBITS OPEN DockDogs registration opens Brittlebank Park Retriever Demonstrations Marion Square DockDogs – Big Air Wave #6 Brittlebank Park Lecture: “LEEP Program” by Ian Sanchez Riviera Theatre Retriever Demonstrations Brittlebank Park Birds of Prey Demonstrations Marion Square Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Animal Show Gaillard Auditorium DockDogs – Speed Retrieve Heat #3 Brittlebank Park Cast Net Demonstrations Brittlebank Park Lecture: “Wolf Empire” by Scott Ian Barry Riviera Theatre DockDogs – Amateur Finals Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Semi-Pro Finals Brittlebank Park Retriever Demonstrations Brittlebank Park Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Animal Show Gaillard Auditorium DockDogs – Pro Finals Brittlebank Park Retriever Demonstrations Marion Square Fly-Fishing Demonstrations Brittlebank Park DockDogs – Speed Retrieve Finals Brittlebank Park Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 |

10 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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a

Charleston Artist Guild and SEWE:

Natural

Partnership

“French Huguenot Church”

by J. Christian Snedeker

T

“Newport Plantation Alley”

by Russell Buskirk

he partnership was only natural – as predisposed as oils are to canvas or as herons are to the marsh.

For the first time in 27 years, SEWE will include an exhibition featuring the Charleston Artist Guild, a local organization whose mission is to promote the practice, teaching and recognition of fine arts in greater Charleston.

Forty-five of the 800-member nonprofit group will show and sell their works at the Charleston Marriott’s Emerald Ballroom in an exhibition titled “Natural Beauty,” which will present artworks depicting the outdoors.

“You can expect a variety of subject matter, with a focus on outdoor material,” says Russell Buskirk, CAG’s director of exhibitions. “Don’t be surprised to see something architectural, or a still life or floral.”

It was Buskirk who took the first step toward this collaboration. “I asked SEWE if the guild could do something with them and they responded with an enthusiastic ‘Yes!’” He didn’t realize when he made the first move that his timing couldn’t have been better.

“We were looking for a way to involve more local artists,” says Lindy Shealy, SEWE art director. “A lot of the fine artists who show at Charleston Place are from all over the world because it’s a juried show. And unfortunately we don’t have enough space to include any more than that. But we’ve wanted An advertising supplement to The Post and Courier

to include the local artists for years.”

Ashley Slane, SEWE’s marketing director, says expo attendees often ask about the local art scene and want to know how many of the 120 in the Charleston Place exhibit are local. “We’re always looking for that local angle. The partnership with the guild is a way to work with the local artists and show them off in a collaborative effort. It really feels like a good fit.”

In the past, the Charleston Marriott was the venue for print sales, but this year the directors of SEWE thought it time to dedicate that space to a different use. “It worked out well for both of us,” Buskirk says.

“The guild will retain 10 percent of sales and gain exposure to a wide audience.”

The CAG was formed in 1953, making it one of the oldest art guilds in the country. With the goal of making art a part of the lives of children, the elderly and the financially disadvantaged, CAG sponsors community outreach programs as well as workshops and classes for its members, and lectures and demonstrations that are open to the public.

Of the guild’s 800 members, 400 or so are “exhibiting members” (those who have been juried-in by submitting at least three pieces to a panel of judges). A call for entries for the SEWE exhibition was sent

By Kim Catanzarite

“Nesting Egrets”

by Jack Thames

to exhibiting members only. “The first 40 to register were guaranteed space in the exhibition,” Buskirk says. “With a bit of juggling of the screen assignment, we were able to accept five more artists.”

Many of the participating guild members show in local galleries. Throughout the weekend, they will demonstrate painting techniques in all media and various styles.

Information on CAG will be available, and members will be on hand to answer questions.

“We are looking forward to promoting Charleston art and artists,” Shealy says. “We have such a wealth of talented people here, and I want to educate all of our attendees on that as well give as much support as possible to the local arts. I hope to grow this relationship in the future so that we may even be able to partner on an art scholarship program.”

Kim Catanzarite is a freelance writer who has been covering Charleston for 10 years.

What: Where:

When:

Charleston Artist Guild Artwork Exhibition Charleston Marriott Emerald Ballroom, 170 Lockwood Blvd.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 11

“Tallulah Solitude” by Thomas Brooks

Thomas Brooks

Theasartist a

By Mary Clark Coy

Storyteller

2009 SEWE Featured Artist Thomas Brooks works to achieve action and tranquility in his paintings

E

very picture tells a story. That’s why Thomas Brooks, the 2009 SEWE featured artist, paints. In a world of change,

he wants to tell today’s stories on canvas. As in any good story, mood is important, and Brooks uses the lighting in his paintings to create mood.

12 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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He says, “It’s the light hitting the subject and the time of day that make it dramatic. You may go back another day or time, and it may not strike you the same.”

A story must also have action, something Brooks achieves with wildlife. It creates movement and takes the story in another direction – a quiet landscape becomes very different when he adds a bird or a deer.

Brooks also wants the viewer to bring his own experiences to the story. “People say they feel like they can walk into it. It’s the feeling that they’ve been there.” That’s what he’s thinking about, too, as he’s painting.

But that’s not to say he doesn’t embellish the story a bit. He enjoys the artistic license that landscapes readily provide and has been known to combine different compositions to create a unique scene.

“I enjoy the softness of morning light and mist. I can be more spontaneous and connected to it. I’ll snap off a few photos to remember what drew me there so I don’t lose the mood.”

“Something strikes you and you want to add it in.

Sometimes it comes while I’m playing the guitar. Or if someone just says something that reminds me of something else. Even while driving or if I wake up at 3 a.m., I’m always thinking and open to ideas.”

This year’s SEWE poster, “Island Strutters,” is an example. Many artists paint wading birds, like egrets or herons, in a marsh scene. But Brooks chose wild turkeys.

“I wanted to do something fresh. I like landscapes, but turkeys add something different. I know they like to roost near water and marsh. I’ve seen them there. Also their shape and movement interest me, and their colors are amazing.”

After 10 years of exhibiting at SEWE, Brooks was given the honor of becoming this year’s featured artist.

SEWE Art Director Lindy Shealy says, “Thomas has been one of our most popular artists, and we really appreciate his work. He was chosen because we felt that his subjects and artistic style would be of interest to SEWE’s patrons.

Through his artwork, he exemplifies our mission – which is conservation and protecting wildlife.”

Brooks’ paintings have fueled many fundraising

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efforts for charitable and environmental organizations.

His work has also been recognized in nearly a dozen prestigious art competitions.

Recently, an exciting new challenge presented itself when Brooks was asked to paint an ornament for the 2008 White House Christmas tree. The tree’s theme was “Capturing the American Spirit,” and his task was to represent his home state of Florida. Some might visualize oranges when thinking of the Sunshine State, but Brooks painted a cattle drive of “Florida cracker cowboys” with palm trees in the foreground. The image is done in cameo and shrouded with draped citrus leaves.

“I like an occasional challenge because it opens your mind,” Brooks explains.

Since he was a young boy, Brooks has wanted to draw.

And his own experiences growing up in the country near Lakeland, Fla., make him quite at ease with his subject matter. “I spent a lot of time outdoors. You can’t help but think of that when painting – like being on a canoe trip or hunting with my dad.”

These days, Brooks spends a lot of time with his camera in nature. Photography gives him the chance to capture the light before it changes. “I enjoy the softness of morning light and mist. I can be more spontaneous and connected to it. I’ll snap off a few photos to remember what drew me there so I don’t lose the mood.”

In his landscapes, the focus is generally on the big picture. “I prefer not getting caught up in details. I see the subject and not the details, so I paint what I see and not what I don’t see.” Except when it comes to birds. “I love birds,” he says. “I don’t know what it is about them – their feathers maybe.”

The artist describes his paintings as tranquil and calming, but those words could also describe Brooks himself. Shealy mentioned his easy going manner, and his friends describe him as “laid back.” What’s obvious is that his stories are a balm to soothe the weary soul. And that’s good for us all.

Brooks’ “Mountain

Solitude”

Mary Clark Coy is a freelance writer and author of several books of local interest. She is also a former art museum teacher.

What: SEWE Featured Artist

Thomas Brooks Where: Charleston Place Ballroom When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday (reception Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. for benefactor badge holders and at 7 p.m. for patron badge holders at The Mills House Hotel).

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 13

Soaring

a

success

A

huge hit at last year’s event, the DockDogs water jumping competitions will return to Brittlebank Park, bringing more big splash thrills.

From pro circuit vets to first-time beginners, dogs of all kinds will compete in waves throughout the weekend.

One of the great things about the competitions is that any dog may participate – there is no “right” breed, age or size. Nearly 250 dogs competed during last year’s expo. The farthest jump recorded was 23 feet by a 4-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, while the shortest jump was 1 foot, 5 inches by a 6-year-old German Shepherd.

The DockDogs competitions are quite the crowd-pleaser – whether the jump is huge or the valiant canine simply falls off the end of the platform, spectators shout enthusiastically. And the dogs thrive on the applause and cheers.

DockDogs is the independent governing and sanctioning body for regional, national and international dock jumping performance sport for dogs. The sport continues to grow, gaining popularity in new regions across the country. To learn more, or to register your dog, go to www.dockdogs.com. Dogs may also enter at the venue if space remains.

What: DockDogs Where: Brittlebank Park When: Competition Waves held throughout the day Friday, Saturday and Sunday (see schedule for details; times are approximate). Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. (if space available); Finals scheduled for Sunday afternoon starting at 1:30 p.m.

14 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 15

Part of

By Stephanie Burt

the Pack Documentary filmmakers Jim and Jamie Dutcher experience life among the wolves to learn about the animals’ habitat, personalities and social structures

16 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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I

t’s a cold winter’s night in the wilderness of Idaho.

Snow drifts high on the trunks of trees, the temperature dips well below zero, and a wolf ’s single howl can be heard on the edges of the wind. This is a deserted, wild landscape except for one thing – the light shining out of the sides of a Mongolian-style yurt in this middle of nowhere.

And that yurt and its surrounding Wolf Camp is where documentary filmmakers Jim and Jamie Dutcher lived for six years. They knew that only their constant presence near a pack of wolves would provide them the access to film the pack i n its natural habitat and social structures. With no electricity and no running water, the couple lived in the camp for seven to 10 days at a time before leaving for a couple of days to get supplies. The result of this intense commitment is “Living with Wolves” and “Wolves at Our Door,” two documentaries that are slowly changing the way the country views these endangered animals.

“When we would return to the camp, they would give us the greeting of the pack. They would get very excited to see us, and each one in turn would have to greet us by licking on the face. I describe it as a warm, fluffy tornado with fangs.”

-Jamie Dutcher Jim got his start filming underwater animals, which he learned were very secretive and elusive. “From there, my work evolved into other secretive animals: beavers, the mountain lion and then wolves,” he explains.

Wolves, whose habits and tendencies have been tangled in myth and fear for generations, were some of the most secretive of all animals, and Jim’s professional curiosity opened the door for a project that would transform his life.

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Jim and Jamie met on a plane returning from Africa, and their passion for animals sparked romance and adventure.

Jamie’s background at the National Zoo provided a knowledge of animal husbandry, and with Jim’s filmmaking skills, the project of filming the Sawtooth Pack was born.

The couple created a 25-acre enclosure (with their camp in the middle) on the edge of Idaho’s Sawtooth Wilderness and introduced a litter of wolf pups to the environment.

“Even though we bottle-fed and bonded, we never tried to treat them as pets,” Jamie says. “We just wanted them to be comfortable with us, and the wolves always chose to come to us when they wanted. We never approached them.”

What they observed is that the animals have a similar social structure to that of elephants that involves complicated relationships with the group, a system of greeting and a period of mourning when a pack member dies.

“When we would return to the camp, they would give us the greeting of the pack,” Jamie says. “They would get very excited to see us, and each one in turn would have to greet us by licking on the face. I describe it as a warm, fluffy tornado with fangs.”

Although the reputation of wolves might scare many people, the couple was never afraid for their safety, just for the securing of their supplies. “Wolves are very curious and would get into anything,” Jim says, so the couple had to erect a fence around the tent to protect their belongings. And since the wolves only hunted small wild game in the 25-acre enclosure, the couple became the “people to call” when roadkill was spotted in the surrounding areas.

“Unfortunately there is a lot of roadkill in the mountains, and we collected deer, elk, antelope. People came to recognize our van,” Jamie says with a laugh. They stored the meat they collected in a freezer at a fish hatchery nearby and retrieved it as needed. The goal of the project was to document the social behavior of the pack, not so

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 17

much to capture their hunting practices.

Although the Sawtooth pack exists mainly in memory now, the Dutchers have been profoundly touched by their interaction with the animals. Instead of moving on with another documentary project, they have decided that wolves need their preservation efforts.

In the past year, they have given 25 presentations across the country and lobbied government leaders, educating the public about wolves and their vital role in the ecosystem.

Along with the two films, the couple has also written magazine articles as well as companion books and a CD of wolf howls. Jim says, “The wolves gave us so much personally, we felt that we had to give back for them, be their voice.”

Freelance writer Stephanie Burt was fascinated by the Dutchers’ research and their warmth and ease in telling the story of the Sawtooth Pack.

Her writing has appeared in WNC, G Magazine, and Lowcountry Living,and she is currently residing in Greensboro, N.C., far away from any wilderness on a quiet, residential street.

What: Jim and Jamie Dutcher “Living with Wolves” presentation Where: Gaillard Auditorium When: Friday at 11 a.m. and Saturday at 3 p.m.

Portrait of a

species

Scott Ian Barry calls the evening a wolf howled for him in front of a packed audience at Carnegie Hall one of the “most amazing nights of his life.” It was during a collaborative concert of the music of Paul Winter, and the wolf ’s howl plucked a deep spiritual cord for Barry, deepening the love and respect he’s had for the animal since childhood.

“I always wanted to be a wolf as a kid, and my secret admission is that I still do,” Barry says. His volunteer work at a nature preserve in southern New York state helped him hone his knowledge of the oft-misunderstood animal, and these days he considers himself a wolf behaviorist, able to read the animal’s “tells” before he acts on instinct. This keen eye gives him the chance to capture astonishing wolf portraits, many of which were included in his latest book, Wolf Empire.

What Barry’s work reveals is an interaction with the wolf over a lifetime, an exuberance to engage the wolf instead of just shooting

18 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

observations with his lens. For example, he once used his girlfriend’s Chanel No. 5 perfume to attract a wolf to a spot. The resulting photograph is a wolf ’s paws-in-the-air celebration of the power of scent, titled “Ecstasy.”

Barry’s 30 years as a wildlife photographer have made him a sought-after lecturer, and he will bring his narrative of his photographs as well as his unique personal observations about wolf behavior to SEWE for the first time this year.

What: Scott Ian Barry lecture on Wolf Empire Where: Riviera Theatre, 225 King St. When: Friday at 1:30 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m.

In addition, Scott’s photographs will be on display at the Charleston Marriott throughout the expo.

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Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 19

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition mans alike Canines and hu stivities at fe enjoy the Marion Square

Sites

Explore an amazing array of events, vendors and venues that includes something for everyone – from the young to the young at heart.

Marion Square Retriever Demonstrations

Trainers will put highly skilled retrievers from the Palmetto Retriever Club and the Boykin Spaniel Society through their paces. Due to the ongoing popularity of these great demonstrations, demos will also be at Brittlebank Park. Friday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.; Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Center for Birds of Prey Demonstrations Staff members from the CBP educate audiences during incredible demonstrations with majestic raptors in flight. Friday and Saturday at 1 p.m.; Sunday at noon.

Edisto Island Serpentarium Tent Through outreach programs, EIS aims to promote the preservation of reptiles and to educate the public on the benefits of reptiles in our environment.

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SEWE

Sites

Marion Square (continued...)

Conservation Exhibits

The Conservation Tent in Marion Square will house more than 40 conservation groups that will talk with attendees about their areas of expertise. Various wildlife rescue groups, many with live animals and birds to see up close, will exhibit, along with Ducks Unlimited, S.C. Department of Natural Resources and many of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife area refuges.

Children’s Square Marion Square will host many fun, educational activities and programs for children of all ages, including: • Eudora Farms exotic petting zoo • Pony and camel rides • Power Rock climbing wall and Spider Jump (bungee jump/trampoline combo with secure harness) • Kids for Conservation poster artwork display tent, sponsored by SCANA • Craft-making and science stations, coordinated by Charleston Museum Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

You can work up a big appetite at SEWE, but you don’t have to walk around hungry!

Visit “Restaurant Row” to enjoy tempting local specialties prepared by some of Charleston’s favorite restaurants and caterers.

The petting zo o Children’s Squa at re

marion square charleston marriott

Taste of the Town

Live Bluegrass Music Enjoy performances by the Moonshiners.

SEWE Souvenirs Pick up a memento from your Expo visit.

Charleston Marriott Quality Sporting Arms

Dealers of quality sporting arms will be housed in the Charleston Marriott.

Decoys Back by popular demand, SEWE will be hosting some of the most respected dealers of antique vintage and working decoys. Decoy Magazine will also be on hand. Bring in your own decoys for a free appraisal.

Nature Photographers The work of 12 outstanding nature photographers will be on display and available for purchase in the Emerald Ballroom.

Charleston Artist Guild New this year, SEWE is proud to partner with the Charleston Artist Guild to host an exhibit/sale of works by 45 of the Lowcountry’s finest local artists.

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Antique Decoys will be on display at the Charleston Mariott.

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 21

SEWE

Sites brittlebank park 22 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

Brittlebank Park dockdogs

A big hit last year, the DockDogs demonstrations return. Competition waves will take place throughout the weekend, with the finals on Sunday afternoon. Anyone may enter a dog in the competition in advance by visiting www.dockdogs.com or at the event, if space remains.

Retriever Demonstrations Always a SEWE crowd favorite, the well-trained dogs from Cooper River Retriever Club and their trainers will show off their skills in twice-daily demonstrations. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Sporting Village Nearly 50 vendors and exhibitors, including hunting, fishing and safari guides, and outdoor outfitters address your sporting interests.

Fishing Seminars & Demonstrations Charleston Angler will show the latest in fishing gear, teach rig & reel building and repair, and help you hone your fly- and knot-tying skills. They will also host a “kids corner� for young anglers and conduct cast net and fly-fishing demonstrations.

DockDogs

Live Bluegrass Music Enjoy performances by the Bluestone Ramblers.

Food and Beverage Vendors Enjoy some local flavor.

SEWE Souvenirs Pick up a memento from your Expo visit.

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SEWE

Original Artwork

Original paintings and sculpture by nearly 100 artists who are juried into the show will be displayed in the Ballroom and Grand Hall during the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. This work is some of the very finest in the wildlife art genre, with various styles, media and subject matter represented.

The artists will also be on hand to share their experiences and the stories behind the pieces.

Antique Nature Prints SEWE will host an exhibition and sale of rare, original antique prints in the Ashley Cooper room (first door on the left in the main hallway on the second floor). Gilbert Johnston’s collection includes original Audubons printed by Havell, as well as early bird, mammal, fish, insect and botanical prints by noted 17th to 19th century artists.

Sporting Classics/Book Signings With well-written stories and columns on sporting arms, travel, wildlife art and craftsmen in the industry, Sporting Classics is one of America’s great magazines for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit its booth just outside the ballroom.

Separately, Ben McC. Moise will have his book, Memoirs of a Game Warden, available in the main hallway on the second floor of Charleston Place.

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Prints

“Mountain Solitude”

by Thomas Brooks

charleston place

Sporting Classics will also host book signings with Lloyd Newberry, author of European Hunter, and Ron Van Gilder, author of Brushes With Nature. The books will be available for purchase and the authors will be available for signings throughout the weekend.

Antique Nature

Sites

Charleston Place

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 23

SEWE

Sites

Charleston Place (continued...)

Giclee Prints

Giclee prints by some of SEWE’s artists will be available in the Drayton Room.

Skins for Conservation African Game Industries will showcase extraordinary items, including skins, rugs, pillows, purses, gun slings, safari tableware and more. AGI strongly supports a policy of conservation through utilization and obtains every one of its skins and hides through government-approved animal reduction programs, which help ensure the survival of African game and wildlife for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

Discovery Editi on Audubon print, s’ “Great Blue He ron”

Audubon Prints Discovery Editions will offer prints from its Audubon collection, “Perfect Recreations,” in the Edmunds Room (on the right in the main hallway on the second floor). Made from exceptionally well-preserved early subscription Havell engravings with rich original hand color, these prints are produced in full and exact scale at the highest resolution ever achieved.

Brookgreen Gardens

Charleston Place The Mills House Hotel

Established in 1931 to preserve the native flora and fauna and display objects of art within that natural setting, Brookgreen Gardens in Litchfield, S.C., is a now a National Historic Landmark.

Its display garden features the most extensive collection of figurative sculpture in an outdoor setting by American artists in the world. Brookgreen Gardens will exhibit works from its collection at the top of the Grand Staircase.

Jewelry Designers The SEWE Boutique, located in the Colleton Room (on the left side of the main hallway on the second floor), will showcase fine jewelry designers.

SEWE Store Located at the top of the grand staircase on the second floor of Charleston Place, the SEWE Store will offer a wide variety of exposition-related items, including apparel, note cards, the SEWE cookbook and more.

The Mills House Hotel Carvers

Returning to The Mills House this year, 17 carvers will participate in this special exhibit.

In addition to finished works for sale, they will also display works in various stages to help attendees better understand and appreciate the carving process.

Several different styles of carvings will be on display at The Mills House Hotel.

24 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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Jamie Dutcher shares a special moment with a wolf

“Living With Wolves” Presentations

Jim and Jamie Dutcher spent six years in a tented camp at the edge of Idaho’s Sawtooth Wilderness, living with a pack of wolves. They will share their intimate story of life with the wolves as well as their dedication to bringing about a better understanding of the true nature of wolves and their importance to a healthy ecosystem. Friday at 11 a.m. and Saturday at 3 p.m.

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Shows Busch Wildlife Sanctuary cares for sick, injured and orphaned wild animals, while promoting wildlife and habitat conservation through a variety of community environmental outreach programs. Friday at 3 p.m., Saturday at 11 a.m. and Sunday at noon and 2:30 p.m.

Wildlife Gifts and Collectibles Wildly varied wares and creations by talented craftspeople will be displayed in more than 60 booths. These items include carvings, woodworkings, pottery, jewelry, apparel, scrimshaw, knives and more.

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Show

Sites

Gaillard Auditorium

SEWE

Duck Stamps SEWE Store Check out all the newest SEWE souvenir and apparel items available in the main hall, as well as some classic and vintage SEWE items at discounted prices.

Taste of the Town Head to “Restaurant Row” to find a variety of Lowcountry tastes to please everyone in the family. From appetizers to entrees, local restaurants and caterers will serve up their best for SEWE attendees.

Embassy Suites

S.C. Migratory Duck Stamp and Print Display

gaillard auditorium embassy suites

Entries in the Junior Duck Stamp competition will be exhibited upstairs.

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources will have the original paintings from all the years of the S.C. Migratory Duck Stamp and Print program on display.

p

tory Duck Stam

1981 S.C. Migra

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Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 25

Taste

Lowcountry of the

local restaurants give sewe visitors a sampling of their scrumptious fare After a great first run last year, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition is pleased to be working with the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association again to serve up delicious Lowcountry specialties to our attendees.

Marion Square 82 Queen A.W. Shucks Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Black Jack BBQ Gilligan’s Management Co. Grills Gone Wild Sticky Fingers Zeus Grill & Seafood

GAiLLARD AUDITORIUM Barbara Jeans Restaurant California Dreaming Charleston’s Land & Sea Market Zeus Grill & Seafood

26 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

Brittlebank Park Charleston’s Land & Sea Market Vickery’s Bar & Grill Wild Wing Café Zeus Grill & Seafood

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Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009 | 27

28 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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leep into the

By Eugenia Payne

outdoors

local nonprofit uses hands-on activities and leader participation in its environmental education programs

“Our main focus is not to have another ‘fear factor,’ but to get kids enjoying nature.”

-Ian Sanchez, director of LEEP

I

n a time when nonprofits wrestle global warming and coal plant spills, the nonprofit group Lowcountry Environmental Education Programs reminds us playful scavenger hunts are still a big deal.

LEEP Director Ian Sanchez’s team of educators and some 55 volunteers use these hands-on activities to help students retain their outdoor discoveries. In turn, they perform better on science tests and are much more likely to become tomorrow’s environmentalists.

“Using LEEP, we get to do three times as many field trips as other science classrooms,” says Celeste Monette, a teacher at James Island Middle School. Now in its 10th year, LEEP has reached more than 20 schools and 3,200 students.

Monette attributes LEEP’s success, in part to Sanchez’s ability to captivate students. “He gets in there and is doing what he’s asking the kids to do.”

One student favorite is a rap Sanchez performs about metamorphic and sedimentary rock. Sanchez’s approach imparts that outdoor fun and outdoor knowledge are one in the same. Often his exercises are as simple (and inexpensive) as identifying the life cycles of students’ own schoolyards – a pine tree’s vascular system or a drop of water’s bacteria.

Sanchez kept students’ imaginations going last spring by using a satellite connection on his sponsored kayaking expeditions called WOW (Web of Water). Traveling the linked waterways between Charleston Harbor and Greenville, S.C., he described the ospreys and fish he saw, while also concentrating on the sociological history of the riverfronts and man-made lakes he paddled. For an additional visual tool, Project Wild Software, similar to a

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3-D coloring book, was tailored to signify landmarks and species like the Congaree or the Shoals Spider Lily.

The WOW expedition has been made into a documentary that will preview at SEWE and air on ETV South Carolina this spring.

Out of the kayak, Sanchez is often found driving students to Folly Beach and Magnolia Gardens in the organization’s sky-blue biodiesel bus. Or he may be collaborating with supervisors at the county’s “environment as an integrated curriculum” office.

Not only is seeing the actual local flora and fauna the best way to remember it for the test, studies have shown that outdoor environmental education raises student performance in all subject areas. Time outdoors is also attributed to decreasing anxiety, as well as improving poor concentration and reducing obesity for all age groups. For these reasons, LEEP supports the No Child Left Inside Act, which would provide funds to facilitate state environmental literacy plans and teacher training programs.

Certainly, members of LEEP are informed about the innumerable threats to South Carolina’s water health and the urgent need for energy conservation, but they also advocate that young people are more willing to become caretakers of places they have experienced. Then, they are ready to face the challenges of nature’s relationships with towns and communities.

“When these students are the ones teaching these classes about our local ecology, then we are really going to start seeing impact,” Sanchez says. “Our key goal is to show everything is connected.”

One of LEEP’s numerous field trips

LEEP’s biodiesel bus

Charleston native Eugenia Payne writes about sustainability and design for local and national publications.

What: LEEP Lectures by Ian Sanchez Where: Riviera Theatre, 225 King St. When: Saturday at 1:30 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m.

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32 | Southeastern Wildlife Exposition 2009

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