The Tri-County’s Premier Publication for the Young and Active After 50
Serving Berkeley, Dorchester
and Charleston Counties
Volume 9, No 4
Ship Shapes
of Charleston
William Thomas-Moore
and Diane Scher
By Don Gordon
They came to Charleston from widely
separated places for totally different rea-
sons and met at the local census offices,
where they both worked in 2000. The re-
sult was not only a life partnership but one
in which their talents and interests comple-
mented each other to a remarkable degree.
William Thomas-Moore is a master
craftsman and model shipwright, who also
does some acting. His wife, Diane Scher,
is a writer and a public relations executive
with significant performing arts education
and background.
So it was entirely reasonable that one
of the first things the two did after they
connected was to produce a play, one in
which they would comprise the entire cast
The story was about the Confederate sub-
marine H.L. Hunley, a subject on which
Thomas-Moore is an authority. “I went
to one of his lectures on the Hunley at the
INSIDE
Lowcountry Sun
Page 4
April Alamanac
Page 9
Changes to 2009 Taxes
Page 15
Quick Look at the
Health Care Bill
Page 27
Ode to the Front Porch
www.lowcountrysun.sc
A completed model rests proudly on
display.
Citadel,” Ms. Scher recalled. She offered
some of her own input on the subject, and
things progressed from there.
The couple performed the one-act play
called, “Romancing the Hunley,“ at vari-
ous venues in the South for several years
and now are reviving the performance for
three months at the Powder Magazine in
Charleston. The first showing is scheduled
for April 4 and will be repeated each Sun-
Battle of the Ages: Boomers vs. the Young
We’ve just seen the first pitched battle
in the next war -- The War Between the
Generations. It will be a war that divides
America in a way we haven’t seen since
the Civil War. Unlike the recent political
battles between red states and blue, or the
liberals vs. the conservatives, this battle
will not be a matter of choice. It will draw
its lines of distinction based on age -- and
wallets.
I first wrote about this topic exactly
six years ago in a column titled “Medicare
Drain Heralds Generation Warfare.” In it,
I pointed out the growing conflict between
Visit us online at www.lowcountrysun.sc
Master craftsman and model shipwright Bill Thomas-Moore works on a commis-
sioned restoration on his back porch-turned model shipyard on James Island.
day afternoon through June.
Ms. Scher’s role portrays a modern-day
reporter going back in time to interview the
fictional ship’s doctor, “Dr. Moore,” in his
Tradd street office. The time is February
1864, three days after the disappearance of
the vessel. For the play, Ms. Scher adopts
the style of Hollywood columnist Hedda
Hopper, complete with the large hat.
“I wear many hats,“ she commented,
meaning that both literally and figurative-
ly. She also fulfills many roles in life, such
as artist, freelance journalist, copywriter,
public relations marketing consultant and
arts promoter. More than that, both she and
Thomas-Moore work as docents at historic
the generations -- the huge number of baby
boomers who have been promised benefits
in their retirement years -- and the smaller,
but equally vocal generation that will be
taxed to pay for those promises.
Until now, the focus has been on the
federal government, but now the battle has
moved to the state, city and local level. Un-
like the federal government, states cannot
simply “print” or create the money, or run
budget deficits. So they’re forced to raise
taxes or make spending cuts -- or both. The
pain is starting to be felt.
APRIL, 2010
home tours in Charleston.
As for Thomas-Moore, he has been a
professional ship model builder for 50 of
his 69 years to the point that his eminence
in the craft is widespread. But that wasn’t
his full-time line in the beginning. “I
couldn’t make a living at it until I achieved
an international reputation,” he explained.
He remembers the first model he sold.
It was 1960, and his father had brought
home a piece of mahogany from an old
ship that had sunk in Boston Harbor. From
half of that piece, young Thomas-Moore
constructed a ship model.
Ship Shapes continued on page 2
The first pitched battle was staged last
week -- at college campuses across the
country. The younger generation -- college
students, high school students and some in
grade school -- joined to protest the rising
cost of college tuition, along with cuts in
resources at all levels of public schools.
In Chicago, the public school district
is cutting back some spring non-varsity
sports and eliminating lacrosse and water
polo, and facing other funding decisions
because of its budget crisis.
Battle continued on page 2
Ship Shapes continued from page 1
“It was on the mantle of our
home. An executive for Goodyear
saw it and asked me how much
I wanted for it,“ Thomas-Moore
said. Young Bill thought he had
named a ridiculously high price
but got a surprise. “He said ‘fine,
I’ll take it,‘ “ Thomas-Moore re-
called.
The early stage of Thomas-
Moore’s working life was as an
administrator at Kent State Uni-
versity in Ohio and as an execu-
tive at Goodyear Tire and Rubber
Co. in his native Akron. Thomas-
Moore was at the university dur-
ing the Vietnam anti-war protests
that led to the fatal shootings in
May 1970. Of his experience
there, Thomas-Moore said, “I
was a conservative in a very lib-
eral environment, which wasn’t
very comfortable.”
Thomas-Moore arrived in
Charleston in 1989 by way of
Atlanta because his wife at that
time had been transferred here.
In the meantime Diane Scher was
facing life issues of her own. A
native of Detroit, Mich., she had
been schooled in performing arts
and journalism, had performed
and done public relations work in
New York and eventually settled
in San Jose, Calif.
“My mother had died, and
my daughter was married,” Ms.
Scher recalled, indicating she
was ready for a change in scen-
ery. The seacoast, one or the work ranging in size from six fact, formed the basis of the full- Acting provides him a break
other, was her preferred location inches to eight feet. Authenticity size replica of the submarine that from model-building. Thomas-
and when a friend suggested she down to the smallest detail is key, was later constructed. His model Moore has considerable experi-
come to Myrtle Beach, she made which necessitates extensive re- of Blackbeard”s “Queen Anne’s ence acting in period costumes
the move, later migrating south to search. “About one quarter of my Revenge” is on display at a res- and has appeared as an extra
Charleston. taurant of that name on in several movies filmed in the
“I’m in love with Daniel Island. Charleston area.
Charleston,” she ex- Restoration is also a Even though “Romancing
claimed. “We would never major part of Thomas- the Hunley” has been and will
move.” Of her life with Moore’s work, including be performed repeatedly, it does
Thomas-Moore, she said, those of models dating as not grow stale for the perform-
“We have done more in 10 far back at the 18th and ers. That’s because, as Ms. Scher
years together than most 19th centuries. He referred explained, the actors improvise
people do in a lifetime.” to two so-called bone with new dialogue at times while
The lives of the cou- models, one vintage 1770 remaining within the basic story
ple relate largely in one and the other from the line.
way or another to Thom- early 1800s. They were In short, the two do not fol-
as-Moore’s virtuosity with built by French officers low a rigid script in the play, nor,
ship models, from the held captive by the British one suspects, in life itself. That
play to her promotion of using cooking bones from may explain Diane Scher’s state-
his work to their teaming the kitchen and human ment of enthusiasm for what the
to teach what they called hair for the rigging. Those couple has experienced together
Modeling 101, by which were details that Thomas- over the past 10 years.
the master builder seeks to Moore managed to dupli-
share his talent with oth- cate. The models are worth “Romancing The Hunley”
ers. They no longer hold as much as $100,000, and Sundays
classes at schools but he for restoring them, Thom- April 4th - June 27th, 3:30 PM
tutors students privately.
Bill and Diane rehearse their roles for “Romanc-
as-Moore earned substan- Tickets: $15
“It was the love of
ing the Hunley”, the stage play they not only enjoy
tial fees. Powder Magazine
the sea,” Thomas-Moore
together as actors, but producers.
Obviously, his work 79 Cumberland Street
commented, that motivat- does not come cheap. For Downtown Charleston
ed him to build his models. In his work is in doing the research,” new models, custom-ordered, his
For information and tickets:
youth, his family spent summers he said. Thomas-Moore’s studio beginning price range is $6,000 to 843-722-9350.
at the coast in Massachusetts. is his back porch at the couple’s $10,000. But building a model is
www.powdermag.org.
Moreover, Thomas-Moore is an James Island home. no rapid process. He estimates the
avid sailboat sailor in his own Thomas-Moore’s credits in- time frame to be anywhere from For more information about
right. clude some impressive items, six months to two years, though “Ship Shapes of Charleston”
His models have been of his- starting with the original Hunley he never has just one project go- E-mail: shipsgallery@aol.com,
toric sailing vessels, all of which model for which he was commis- ing at any given time. “The work website: www.shipshapesof-
he builds to various scales, his sioned. His five-foot model, in is too tedious for that.” charleston.blogspot.com.

Battle continued from page 1 Students typically don’t have of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to the rebuild devastated 40l(k) plans get boomers’ jobs? A crunch is
a voice that can compete with the University of Texas in Austin, to and hope that they’ll be able developing, a logjam at the top
Across the nation, from New Medicare lobby. But in the last Auburn in Alabama. The younger to sell their homes at a reason- of the pyramid as boomers stub-
Jersey to California, after-school week, as part of the “March 4th generation has found its voice. able price, when they’re ready to bornly refuse to give up their
activities are being cut for lack Day of Action to Defend Pub- Gone are plans for “early downsize into retirement commu- jobs.
of funding. That hits working lic Education,” demonstrations retirement” -- a concept that has nities. It’s not surprising that one
parents hard and creates a new raged on campuses and in front of been replaced by “hanging on as But will younger workers reason the health care debate
generation of latchkey kids and statehouses from Berkeley, Calif., long as I can.” Working longer have the income to purchase is stalled revolves around the
at-risk children. to Tennessee to the University gives boomers an opportunity to boomers’ homes -- if they can’t critical issue of “saving money
through cuts in Medicare reim-
bursements.” The huge -- and ac-
The Tri-County’s Premier Publication for the Young and Active After 50 tive-voting -- boomer generation
is about to demand that the con-
tributions they’ve made into the
system now be used to take care
of them in their senior years, even
though the cost will be greater
than their payments.
Over 200 Distribution Points and 45,000 Readers Boomers grew up expect-
in the Greater Charleston Area ing the best of everything -- and
getting it. Now they will turn vi-
The Lowcountry Sun is a monthly newspaper dedicated to informing, ciously on anyone who suggests
serving and entertaining active senior adults in the Greater Charleston
any form of rationing of health
area.
care -- whether by price, avail-
Subscriptions are available, prepaid with order, at $31 for one year. ability or cost. If the government
Send subscription orders to: cuts back on Medicare reimburse-
Lowcountry Sun, 1961 Treebark Drive, Charleston, SC 29414 ment to physicians, who in turn
Orders received by the 15th of the month will start with the next issue. decide not to take on new Medi-
Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily consti- care patients, the impact will be
tute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers and not felt at the polls.
necessarily the opinion of the publisher, advertisers or their agencies. The cost of caring for the ag-
Copyright 2008 - Neighborhood Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved.
ing population of our country will
Publisher Contributing Writers Mark Gallagher pit seniors against the next gen-
Torrey Monroe Liz Sharp Business Development eration of workers who will be
843-345-1314 John Parker Print & Online Advertising taxed to pay for the benefits that
Cappy Hall Rearick Call 843-762-0030
Graphics/Layout
John Schumacher
boomers have been promised.
lowcountrysun@gmail.com
Jill Lancaster
Belinda Roberts Pitting Grandma and Grandpa
Dr. Eric Stem against their children and grand-
children is a cruel war.
Let us mail the Lowcountry Sun to your home. There is only one way out:
Only $31 for one year.
economic growth. Only if we
Name have a growing economy do we
Address stand a chance of making good on
City/State/Zip all our promises. That’s the chal-
lenge we face -- not tomorrow,
Phone Email
but now.
Mail coupon to
1961 Treebark Drive, Charleston, SC 29414 Courtesy Terry Savage
843-345-1314 • Fax 843-278-9321

2 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc

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 April Forecast:
Rain. Expect to see a very wet spring in
the greater Charleston region Distribution Locations
Kiawah/Seabrook -Island Oaks -God’s Green Acre
-Indigo Books -Carousel Boutique
N. Charleston
-Kiawah Real Estate -Breck’s
April Temperature Top Ten Rainiest Cities in April -Vincent’s Drugs
-BC Liquors
-Lowcountry Adult
Services -O’lacy’s Pub
-Gerald’s Tires -Flowertowne
-Newton Farms -El Rosarito
-Marie’s Diner
Normal High 76 F 1. Hilo, Hi - 12.54 inches Downtown Charleston -Chas. Denture Center -Dorchester Senior
-Hardee’s -Jones Ford Center
Normal Avg. 64 F -VA Hospital -La Hacienda -Paul Lawton Construc
2. Yakutat, AK - 10.80 inches -MUSC
-Roper
-Rogers Tax Advisors
-Starbucks
tion
-Cardiology Consultants
-Norm’s Pizza -Hudson Nissan -Village at Summerville
Ocean Temperature 3. Mt. Washington, NH - -Kim’s Express -Perkins -Trident Cardiology
-LaHacienda -Jiffy Lube
-Summerville Library
8.43 inches -Diana’s -Chik-fil-A
-Beaner’s Coffee
April 1-15 64 F -Joseph’s
-Canterbury House
-Utopia Homecare
-Odyssey Healthcare -Pivotal Fitness
April 16-30 68 F 4. Quillayute, WA - 7.44 inches -Chas. Crab House -Dr. Hugh Robinson -Chas. Brace
-ProMed
-AW Shuck’s -Castle Keepers
-Blossom’s -True Value Hardware -Advanced Centers for
-Khouri Chiropractic -Planter’s Crossing Internal Medicine
5. Annette, AK - 7.37 inches -Tommy Condon’s Apartments -China Wok
April Sky -T-Bonz -Dr. Gail Rearden -Tricounty Radiology
-Chas. Bone & Joint -Northtowne Restaurant -Hibachi Fusion
6. Jackson, MS - 5.98 inches -Delta Pharmacy -Otranto Library -Anytime Fitness
Normal High 76 F -Chas. Library -North Rivers Dental -China City
-Chas. Visitor’s Center
Normal Avg. 64 F 7. Memphis, TN - 5.79 inches -Radcliffe Manor
-Palmetto Family Care
-Vitamin Shoppe
-Philly’s
-Southern Palms
-Arby’s -Hardee’s
Goose Creek
Sunrise: 8. Meridan, MS - 5.62 inches West Ashley
-Pearl Vision
-Dr. Thaddeus Bell
-Center Pointe Bar &
-Alex’s
-Dunkin Donuts
April 1 7:08a -Jiffy Lube Grill
-Chas. Active Day
April 15 6:50a 9. Baton Rouge, LA - 5.56 inches -Groucho’s Deli
-Doctors Care
-Quizno’s
-Hardee’s
Center
-SAS Shoes -Hardee’s
-Lowcountry Cardiology
April 30 6:34a 10. Kodiak, AK- 5.48 inches -Appel Vision
-Nelda’s Barbershop
-Aunt Bea’s Restaurant Mount Pleasant/Isle of
-The Bridge Assisted Palms
-Palmetto Hearing
Sunset: -Heartland of West Living
-Life Care Center of
-MUSC Pathology
-Labcorp
Ashley
April 1 7:40p -Sunfire Grill Chas. -East Cooper Womens
-Senior Tequila -Amedisys Ctr.
April 15 7:50p -Arby’s -Dunkin’ Donuts -Chas. Cornea
April 30 8:01p April Fishing -St. Andrew’s Library
-Kassis Bros. Shoes
-Nason Medical
-SC Sports Medicine
-MUSC Heart &Vas
cular
-Precision Tune -Ladson Seafood -Mt. Pleasant Dermatol
Full Moon -Palmetto Orthopedics
-Lowcountry Medical
-Lowcountry Lung
-Pain Specialists of
ogy
-MUSC Medicine
April 28 Best 12 days Assoc.
-Dr.’s Cain & Lackey
Chas. -Lowcountry Gastroen
-Lowcountry Rheuma terology
-Cardiology Assoc.
Meteor to fish in April -Total Wine
-Easterby’s
tology
-Lowcountry Ortho-
-Chas. Pulmonary
-East Cooper Rehab
Showers In the Morning: -Hardee’s pedics
-Palmetto Urology
-Lowcountry Obstetrics
-Tidewater Neurology
-Lowcountry Tobacco
April 21-22 -Edenbrook -Chas. Cancer Center -Hollings Cancer Ctr.
April 9,10,11,12,13, 25 -MUSC Family Care -Tricounty Radiology -East Cooper Hospital
(swift streaks -MUSC Bone & Joint -Trident Senior Center -Lowcountry Hemato-
-Trident Surgery
overhead In the Evening: -Palmetto Digestive
Disease -Trident Diagnostics
logy
-Mt. Pleasant Family
between April 1, 2, 3, 20, 21, 30 -Jewish Community
Center
-Trident Breast Care
-Palmetto Primary Care
Practice
-The Palms of Mt.
2a to 4a) -Trinity Mission
-Ashley Park
-Lowcountry Hematol- -Pleasant
ogy & Oncology -Palmetto Medical
-Roper St. Francis -Dr. Marzluff Research
Hospital
-Northwoods Family -Mt. Pleasant Visitors
-Tidewater Internal

Need Help? Medicine

Practice Center
-Chas. Hematology -Lowcountry Family -Hardees
-Lowcountry Cardiology Podiatry -Whole Foods
-Ashley Oaks OBGYN -Chas. Neurology -Smoothie King
Personal Assistance -Carolina Lung -Chas. Radiology -Carpentiers Wine &
that Promotes -Dematology & Laser
Ctr. of Chas.
-Alex’s
-Gerald’s Tires
Deli
-Bacco’s
Independence -Endocrine Center -East Bay Deli -Locklears
-Parson Jack’s -Premier Medical Center -Boulevard Diner
-Doctors Care -Dunkin Donuts -Pitt St. Pharmacy
-Star Motors -State Farm Insurance -Alex’s
-Ye Old Fashioned Ice -Tire Kingdom -Abes Oyster House
Cream -Eastern Buffet -Mozzo Deli
-Sojourn Coffee
-Coosaw Creek Crab -Dunkin Donuts
James & Johns Island Shack -SouthEastern Spine
• Care for seniors, new mothers, disabled -EarthFare -Advanced Dentistry -Coastal Carolina
individuals, and others. -Osaka -Medcare Express Research
• Assistance with dressing, bathing, -La Carreta -Ladies Choice Fitness -Sandpiper
shopping, etc. -Arbys -Rolly Pollie’s -MUSC Storm Eye
• No hourly minimum requirement. -Roper -Senior Tequila Institute
• Free, comprehensive, in-home evaluation. -Doctors’ Care
-Wescott Liquors -Franke Home
• Thoroughly screened and credentialed -Sweetwater Café
-Mother Nature -A Dough Re Mi
caregivers. -Kronic Coffee
-Mom & Pop’s Pizza -Lifetrust Financial -China Dragon
• Acceptance of long-term and private -Betty’s Hair
-Foresberg Wine
insurances. Summerville -Goin’ Postal
-Great Wall
• Quick turnaround for care - often within -Platts HVAC -Banana Cabana
-Gold’s Gym
24 hours. -BC Liquors -Doctors’ Care -Morgan Creek Grill
Contact Us Today! -Pan Garden -Wendy’s -Pelican Cleaners
-American Legion Post -Bill’s Liquors -Bagel Nation
(877) 629-4680 -James Island County
Library
-Ye Old Fashioned Ice
Cream
-Boone Hall Farms
-Jack’s Cosmic Dogs
-Ravenous Reader -Allcare -Just Fresh
www.maximhomecare.com -Dunkin Donuts -Hardee’s -KHM Gas Station
-Plantation Pharmacy -Old South Diner -The Denture Center
-Palmetto Vision Care
-Starbucks -Cutchin Law
-Lowcountry Hearing
-Chas. Crabhouse
-Massage Envy -Geralds Tires
www. -Chas. Muni Golf -Tire Kingdom -Chas. Bone & Joint
-Lowcountry Senior -Anytime Fitness -Boulevard Diner
lowcountry Center -Eclectic Chef
-Ruth’s Hallmark
sun. -Sea Island Habitat for
Humanity -Simply Delicious
sc
4 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc
 from

Visit or call for a tour,

Sandpiper Village, Independent Living
1224 Village Creek Lane
843.884.5735
Sandpiper Courtyard, Assisted Living
1047 Anna Knapp Blvd
843.884.7977
Sandpiper Rehab and Nursing Center
1049 Anna Knapp Blvd
843.881.3210

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 5

 Good Credit Score of Past Not So Good Now
With historically low rates, many homeowners are watching closely for the right time to refinance their mortgages. Those with good
credit may well recall being showered with praise by a mortgage broker during the initial purchase for that solid credit score.
That was then. This is now.
A few years ago, a credit
score of 620 or higher was good
enough. That increased to 680 in
early 2008. Then it jumped to 720
in April last year and 740 in Au-
gust, says Rodney Anderson, se-
nior managing partner of Plano,
Texas-based Rodney Anderson
Lending Services. ers with FICO scores below 720,
In the past, any score of 700
or higher would get a double
thumbs-up from credit experts.
Now, rate adjustments begin kick-
ing in at 740, with every 20-point
drop adding another adjustment.
In other words, many people
who were taking pride in their
credit habits either must pay sig-
nificantly higher or try to make
quick changes to nudge their
scores upward.
“I have clients all the time
who literally wind up with a
score of 739, 719, 699, 679... and
it costs them money to either fix it
or pay for it,” Huettner says.
One of Huettner’s clients,
who always had a score of about
740, went to do a refinance and
found her current score at 719.
“The reason was, she put a new
washer and dryer on a store credit
card,” he says. Many store cards
are actually revolving credit,
which means your limit is essen-
tially your starting balance. So
that purchase maxed out her card
and caused about a 20-point score
drop.
Another wrinkle in today’s
market: Even those with FICO
scores of 740 or higher are penal-
ized for buying in a geographic
market on the downswing. “This
adjustment affects all borrowers,
regardless of score, if in a de-
clining market,” says mortgage
broker Jim Heidelberg, president
of Heidelberg Capital Corp. in
Tampa, Fla.
In many cases, the added
costs of rate adjustments are
“enough to make a refinance
that would otherwise make sense
have no benefit to the borrower,”
Huettner says.
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6 APRIL, 2010 •
The road to new scoring
How did we get to this new
reality?
The nation’s two largest
mortgage lenders, Fannie Mae
and Freddie Mac, suffered major
losses in the market last year and
then redefined risk, announcing
price adjustments for borrow-
says Sean Cragg, vice president
of sales for Ann Arbor, Mich.-
based Gold Star Mortgage Finan-
cial Group.
And, in case you were won-
dering, “these fees have noth-
ing to do with your mortgage
company or its various products
and cannot be negotiated away,”
Cragg says.
All mortgage bankers, bro-
kers and credit unions must com-
ply with the higher interest rates
and delivery changes in all tra-
ditional mortgages, says Heidel-
berg. Only entities intending to
hold the mortgages in their own
portfolios can follow their own
guidelines.
Surprise, surprise
Joe and Jane Homeowner
have likely heard of the new cred-
it restrictions. But the actual cost
to them is often a surprise when
they sit down with a broker.
“Often, lenders will quote
rates that include the adjustments,
without calling attention to them,
in order to avoid a negative reac-
tion from their customer,” says
James Guthrie, a partner in New
Home Finance in Suwanee, Ga.
Less surprising are other fac-
tors that go into securing financ-
ing for a new or existing mort-
gage. Paola Kielblock, national
products manager for Sun Prairie,
Wis.-based Fairway Independent
Mortgage Corp., clarifies today’s
requirements:
• Good credit.
• Stable job, with a minimum of
two years of employment.
• Reserves after closing, includ-
ing a minimum of two to six
months of mortgage principal, in-
Bonded and Insured, Est. 1983
Family-Owned and Operated
terest, taxes and insurance.
• Down payment from the bor-
rower’s own funds.
• Low debt-to-income ratio. The
required ratio varies between
banks but is generally less than
40 percent, according to many in
the industry.
Make sure you check your credit often. Know your score and be
aware of how scoring works.
• Good loan-to-value percentage.
It also varies, but it’s often cited
as less than 80 percent.
• Having equity in your home is a
major factor in getting approved
for a refinance and in finding the
best rate. The more equity in the
home, the less risk there is to the
lender if the home is repossessed.
Taking action on your score
What can a homeowner who
wants to refinance do with a
good FICO score that’s not good
enough? Here’s what to do.
Are you over 65?
Do you have a
TERM
Life Insurance policy that
will expire soon?
We might be able to
buy it from you for
CASH.
Call Wayne
843.693.9925
to see if you qualify.
1. Check your credit free at www.
annualcreditreport.com. Find out
what might have gone wrong.
Applicants should know their
credit score, understand what it
means to their loan rates and ask
their loan officers to use credit
analysis on their behalf, says
Chung. Credit analysis tools are a
simple way to identify key score
influencers by scrutinizing the in-
formation contained in each of an
individual’s three credit reports
to look for inconsistencies, errors
and omissions that may artificial-
ly depress the score.
2. Correct any inaccuracies. Al-
though consumers can improve
scores on their own, Kielblock
notes that credit agencies offer
services to mortgage brokers to
help consumers raise their credit
1 - Ford Tough
#
In spite of a struggling
economy and an attitudinal
shift toward living a more en-
vironmentally friendly lifestyle,
the top-selling vehicle of 2009
was the Ford F-Series pickup
truck. According to Cars.com,
a leading online resource ca-
tering to online car shoppers,
Ford sold more than 413,000
F-series trucks, easily distanc-
ing itself from the runner-up.
That distinction belonged to
the Toyota Camry, as Toyota
sold more than 356,000 Cam-
rys in 2009.
Often considered to be in
competition with the Honda
Accord, the Camry outsold
its supposed counterpart by
nearly 70,000 units, as Honda
sold a little more than 290,000
Accords in 2009. That was
good for fifth place on the best
www.lowcountrysun.sc
scores if something is reported in-
accurately and there is proof of a
discrepancy.
3. Decrease the percentage of
available credit used. This can
be done by paying down bal-
ances or increasing credit limits,
says Guthrie. Ideally, this means
keeping balances as close to zero
as possible, and definitely below
30 percent of the available credit
limit, experts say.
“We’ve seen people increase
their scores by as much as 90
points or more, simply by pay-
ing off the right cards,” Anderson
says.
4. Move things around. If one
income can be used to qualify
for the loan, transfer accounts to
“park” the debt in the other par-
ty’s name, Guthrie says.
5. Get a rapid rescore. It’s the
only way to find out fast if an
attempt to improve a score was
successful. It’s done through your
lender and a rescoring company.
Aside from working toward
a better score, there are two ad-
ditional options. One is paying
points to buy down the interest
rate. “This is only a good idea
if the borrower will then live in
the house beyond the break-even
point, meaning the time where
the money they’ve paid in points
is made up for by way of less ex-
pensive monthly payments,” says
Findlay.
The other option: shopping
around. Some lenders, such as
Palo Alto, Calif.-based Addison
Avenue Federal Credit Union,
have loans, known as “portfolio”
loans, that aren’t subject to blan-
ket rules on credit scores because
the lender intends to keep them
rather than sell the loans in the
secondary market.
In a perfect world, anyone
contemplating a refinance or a
new mortgage anytime within the
next year or so would start work-
ing on getting the ideal credit
score now.
seller list, trailing the Chevrolet
Silverado and Toyota Corolla,
which were third and fourth,
respectively. The rest of the
top largely reflects a consumer
mindset that sought fuel-effi-
cient vehicles, as only one of
the remaining 10 best-sellers
was a larger vehicle:
6. Honda Civic: 259,722
7. Nissan Altima: 203,568
8. Honda CR-V: 191, 214
9. Ford Fusion: 180,671
10. Dodge Ram: 177,268
 Final Expense
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www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 7

 Boomers Abroad! - Can You Retire Overseas?
There are many reasons to
move away from the U.S. during
your retirement years. One of the
most important is that your mon-
ey will buy you more. Another
big reason is inexpensive health
care and affordable prescription
drugs.
The laws of various countries
should influence those planning
on living there as some penal-
ize the wealthy and others make
it difficult for those that are not
wealthy.
Other important factors to
consider are the crime rate, the
distance from your home in the
U.S. if you plan to return often
to visit friends and family and, of
course, the lifestyle you are seek-
ing.
List what is important to you
as this should influence your de-
cision:
Climate: Hot, cold, temperate; do
you want a beach or mountains or
both?
The arts: Museums, opera, sym-
phony, ballet, theater.
Sports: Do you wish to play golf,
tennis, ski, run, bike and do you
wish to be able to watch profes-
sional or amateur sporting events?
Healthcare: Do you have medical
problems that require you be near
a hospital that can provide quality
care? Do you need prescription
drugs regularly?
8 APRIL, 2010 •
Cost of living: What can you af-
ford to pay for your monthly
comfort? What kind of lifestyle
do you plan? Luxurious, Simple,
Moderate?
Language: Are you comfortable
in a country where English is not
the native language and perhaps
is not spoken or understood by
many of the natives?
We cover some of the pos-
sible destinations that meet some
or several of these criteria, but
we urge you to do substantial re-
search as well as spend time in
the location you think you wish
to retire to prior to your actual
move. Every country has its plus-
es as well as its minuses.
Many U.S. Citizens are retir-
ing to Central and South America.
Housing as well as the cost of liv-
ing is usually substantially less
than in the states. Costa Rica is
one of the countries that has a
large contingent of retirees. Costa
Rica allows U.S. citizens regis-
tered under its pension system
to pay into the country’s social-
security system. Less than $40 a
month qualifies you for full hos-
pitalization and pharmacy cover-
age.
Many retirees in Costa Rica
use the local public-health admin-
istration as a backup for emer-
gency care and rely on private
clinics for most of their care. The
immigration office is difficult,
and many have reported it is next
to impossible to get a landline
phone in a reasonable time. Costa
Rica, however has its share of
violent crime and, as Forbes re-
ported (Oct. 22, 2008), it also has
it share of land title scams.
Land scams are prevalent in
many countries where Americans
plan their retirement. In Mexico’s
One of the attractions of living overseas is living in a place with a lower cost of
living and the opportunity for new experiences.
Baja peninsula a few years ago,
many U.S. retirees learned that
deeds on their beachfront prop-
erty were not valid as they did
not meet certain provisions of a
national-security statute that per-
mits only citizens to own land on
Mexico’s coasts
Millions of Americans have
retired to Mexico but depending
on where you live the crime rate
has risen to dangerous levels and
some retirees have been forced to
hire bodyguards for protection.
Belize, Panama, Honduras
and Nicaragua also have a good
sized population of U.S. retirees
and they actively court American
retirees by offering tax-free status
to anyone willing to buy or build
a house there. Moving to Brazil is
great choice as it is relatively in-
expensive and has much to offer
with regard to climate and ame-
nities but Brazil’s murder rate is
four times that of the U.S.
Excellent and inexpensive
health care is available in France.
Insurance companies there are
prohibited by law from drop-
www.lowcountrysun.sc
ping you or raising your premi-
ums.
Thailand also has good qual-
ity and affordable hospitals and
Thailand’s “O” visa is available
to any American retiree with at
least $24,000 in the bank and a
minimum of $1,935 in monthly
income.
Australia is a particularly
good choice for many Americans
as it is relatively inexpensive,
English is the native language and
it offers most of the amenities re-
tirees are seeking; however Aus-
tralia’s “investment retirement
visa” requires that an immigrant
have at least $56,000 in annual
income ($43,000 if you settle in
a rural area) and you must be
prepared to invest a minimum of
$650,000 locally ($430,000 in a
rural location).
www.boomersabroad.com
Is overseas retirement a
good option, is it safe to live over-
seas, where does one move to
and what is in various locations
that may be of interest to those
wishing to retire overseas? How
can this library answer those
questions? These issues are ad-
dressed in the introduction to the
Overseas Retirement Library.
http://www.escapeartist.com/
Overseas_Retirement/Refer-
ence_Library/
 Temporary Employment Set to Increase
As the economy’s recovery
continues, the number of tem-
porary jobs could triple in 2010,
clearing the way for thousands of
seniors, boomers and retirees to
return to the workforce in execu-
tive, managerial and professional
positions.
Estimates suggest that tem-
porary employment could in-
crease its penetration from the
current 13 percent of employees
to 39 percent. 73% of employers
are planning to increase their use
of contingent labor.
The country’s economic re-
covery could be particularly ben-
eficial for boomers and seniors
looking for jobs after retirement,
as estimates suggest that contin-
gent labor could increase its pen-
etration from the current 13 per-
cent of employees to 39 percent
in 2010.
“This is good news for boom-
ers, seniors and retirees, as this
demographic is often more likely
to be hired on a part-time, tempo-
rary or project assignment basis,”
said Art Koff, founder of www.
With full time jobs hard to find, many
job hunters are discovering part time
or temp jobs are just as fulfilling as a
full time position.
RetiredBrains.com, a job and in-
formation service for Americans
50 and older.
“Many older workers do
not require the company benefits
of full-time employment,” said
Koff. “They are often in a better
position than their younger coun-
terparts who must receive com-
pany benefits for themselves and
their families.”
Depending on the hours
worked, the length of the assign-
ment and other factors, employ-
ers can save on contingency labor
by avoiding expensive company
benefits. It is also a great deal easi-
er to off-board contingency work-
ers than full-time employees. And
employers with a departmental or
companywide hiring freeze can
hire temporary employees from
a different budget, thereby avoid-
ing hiring freeze limitations alto-
gether.
The number of Americans
working part-time or temporary
jobs for economic reasons (most-
ly because they are unable to find
full-time jobs) has doubled since
the recession began, to 9.2 mil-
lion workers. It’s a trend that sees
America catching up to Europe,
where employers use a much
higher percentage of temporary
and part-time workers than their
U.S. counterparts.
According to a Workforce
Management article by Irwin
Speizer quoting a recent study,
“73% of responding employers
are planning to increase their use
of contingent labor.”
And while jobs are still tough
to find, there are ways for boom-
ers and retirees to maximize the
opportunity. The key is knowing
where to look and what to do to
improve your chances of being
hired once an opening is located.
“Temp employment and freelanc-
ing are two of the few sectors of
the labor market that are growing
rapidly and should be explored
by all job seekers, regardless of
age or the type of position that’s
sought,” Koff said.
“Don’t assume because you
are an executive, a professional
or in management that temporary
jobs or project assignments are
not for you,” Koff pointed out.
In 2009, firms like Kelly Ser-
vices, Aerotek, Adecco and Man-
power placed many thousands
– including company presidents,
lawyers, controllers, sales manag-
ers and senior level managers – in
assignments that paid anywhere
from $80,000 to several hundred
thousand dollars a year. Retirees
and Boomers who have the skills
and experience can often find
many project assignments and
earn more than if they worked
for a single company. These types
of jobs usually provide no health
insurance, sick days, vacation, re-
tirement benefits, severance, ac-
cess to unemployment insurance
or stock options for top-level
executives, all of which makes
them a particularly good fit for
many older workers who can ac-
cept temporary or retirement jobs
without benefits.
The web site Koff founded in
2003, www.RetiredBrains.com,
offers links to hundreds of thou-
sands of employment opportuni-
ties and retirement jobs for boom-
ers, seniors and retirees. Jobs can
be searched by areas of experi-
ence, geographic preference, full-
time or part-time opportunities,
and temporary and project as-
signments. The site links to sea-
sonal jobs and jobs with organi-
zations like the census bureau or
the Peace Corps.

Changes to watch for on

the 2009 tax return
More people are looking forward to
tax time this year. More than 25 tax cuts
for 2009 federal returns have been passed
to help those struggling in the downturned
economy. Many states are also offering tax
breaks this year.
“Virtually everyone is eligible for new
tax credits, deductions and other changes
on their federal tax returns,” says Jessi Dol-
mage, spokeswoman for 2nd Story Soft-
ware, Inc., makers of TaxACT. Dolmage
summarizes seven changes that could im-
pact your bottom line.
The Making Work Pay credit replaced
the 2008 federal stimulus checks for 2009
and 2010. The refundable credit is worth
6.2 percent of your earned income, up to
$400 for individuals and $800 for married
couples filing jointly. The credit phases
out for married couples filing jointly with
a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI)
between $150,000 and $190,000, and for
single taxpayers whose MAGI is between
$75,000 and $95,000.
Most taxpayers already received the
credit for 2009 through reduced federal
withholding starting in April 2009, result-
ing in an increase of $10 to $13 per pay-
check. Even if you received the credit in
your paychecks, you generally still need
to claim the credit on your federal return
to make up for the reduced withholding
throughout the year. If you don’t withhold
federal taxes, you must file a return to re-
ceive the credit.
If you received the one-time economic
recovery payment or qualify for the Gov-
ernment Retiree Credit, the amount must
be subtracted from any Making Work Pay
credit amount. TaxACT’s Making Work
Pay Calculator (www.taxact.com/recov-
ery-act) can estimate your credit amount.
For the 2009 tax year, your standard
deduction may also include state or local
real estate taxes of up to $500 ($1,000 for
married filing jointly) and net disaster loss-
es that occurred before Jan. 1, 2010.
The first $2,400 of unemployment
compensation is exempt from 2009 federal
taxes. Any amount over $2,400, as well as
severance pay, is taxable income.
If you purchased a home in 2009, you
may qualify for the first-time homebuyer
credit. Keep in mind the name of the credit
is deceiving, as current and past homeown-
ers may also qualify. The credit is equal
to 10 percent of the purchase price, up
to either $6,500 or $8,000, depending on
the purchase date, price, whether you’ve
owned a primary residence and when you
last owned a primary residence. Income
level and filing status also affect eligibility.
Those claiming the credit must mail their
federal returns along with certain docu-
mentation for the home.
Energy efficient improvements made
in 2009 and 2010 may give homeowners
up to $1,500 through the Nonbusiness En-
ergy Property Credit. Up to 30 percent of
the costs for qualifying improvements to a
primary residence can be claimed.
The modified HOPE credit, the Amer-
ican Opportunity Credit, is equal to 100
percent of the first $2,000 and 25 percent
of the next $2,000 (totaling up to $2,500
per student) for tuition, related fees and
required course materials. It applies to the
first four years of post-secondary education
in 2009 and 2010. The refundable credit
phases out at MAGIs of $80,000 for indi-
viduals and $160,000 for joint filers.
Finally, if you made a cash contribu-
tion towards earthquake relief efforts in
Haiti after Jan. 11, 2010, and before March
1, 2010, you can deduct it on your 2009 or
2010 return (but not both).
To ensure you get all the tax breaks
you qualify for, Dolmage recommends a
do-it-yourself tax solution like TaxACT
that includes a maximum refund pledge.
The program will break down all the tax
law changes in an easy-to-understand and
easy-to-follow format and point out poten-
tial deductions and credits you may over-
look on your own. TaxACT users can e-file
their federal return free, so they can have
their refund in as few as 8 days with direct
deposit.
For information about all 2009 tax
law changes, visit www.IRS.gov and www.
TaxACT.com.

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 9

 residential, commercial

move in, move out

post-construction
initial cleaning for
insured & bonded new customers only

843-225-7366
www.springcleaningservices.net

10 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc

  Capt. Gary Powers U-2 Spy Plane Shot Down
Over Russia. 
 Israelis Kidnap Adolf Eichman from
Argentina to Jerusalem. 
 Khrushchev at U.N . Pounds Shoe In Anger. 
 John F. Kennedy Wins Democratic Nomination,
Nixon wins GOP. 
 Kennedy Wins Presidency, Democrats Sweep
Congress. 
 Two White Public Schools in New Orleans
Are The First To Integrate. 
 House Committee Looks Into “Payola” American
Bandstand DJ Dick Clark Involved. 
 Alan Freedman Eight Arrested In Taking Radio Payola. 
 Soldiers stop riots at Newport Jazz Festival. 
 Enovil 10, first contraceptive pill sold
for .50 cents each. 
 Two airliners collide over Staten Island, 134 die. 
 Howdy Doody show ends after 13 years. 
African -American Sit-ins Integrate Lunch Counter
In Greensboro. North Carolina. 
 Floyd Patterson is first fighter to regain title
by beating Ingemar Johanson. 
 Castro Nationalizes all American property. 
Black runner Wilma Rudolph wins 3
Olympic gold medals. 
 Kennedy and Nixon meet in first televised
Presidential debate. 
 Emily Post, Queen of etiquette dies.

Answer to Who Am I?
Page 31
James Dean
(February 8, 1931- September 30, 1955)
Best known for his role in the
1955 movie
Rebel Without a Cause
playing James “Jim” Stark

Crossword Solution
from page 30

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 11

 20 Tips to Help You Prepare for Surgery
Are you facing surgery? You are not alone. Every year, more than 15 million Americans have surgery. Most
operations are not emergencies and are considered elective surgery. This means that you have time to
learn about your operation to be sure it is the best treatment for you. You also have time to work with your
surgeon to make the surgery as safe as possible. Be active in your health care to have quality care.

After the decision is made
to have joint replacement sur-
gery, typically arthritis patients
go through an intense phase of
becoming both physically and
psychologically ready for the pro-
cedure. If the patient can go into
the operation with a sense of pre-
paredness and peace of mind, the
chance of a successful outcome
increases. Here are 20 tips to help
you get ready:
1 - Find the right Doctor 7 - Gain perspective
Find an experienced surgeon with
whom you feel comfortable. It is
imperative that you feel you can
develop a longterm relationship
with the surgeon. The surgeon
will become an important person
in your life.
2 - Educate yourself
Make sure you ask your
doctor all pertinent details about
your surgical procedure. Educate
yourself about the surgery. Learn
as much as possible ahead of time
about post-op care, precautions,
and possible complications.
3 - Possibly seek a second opinion
If you have any doubts, seek
a second opinion from another
well-respected surgeon.
4 - Plan ahead
Schedule the surgery at a
time when you can afford time
off from work and when it will be
least disruptive to your family.
5 - Reconcile risks and benefits
Weigh the risks versus the
benefits and reconcile that in
your mind. Don’t go into surgery
dwelling on risks or potential
complications.
6 - Have a positive approach
Feel encouraged and have
a positive attitude. Focus on the
high rate of success of joint re-
placement surgery.
Talk with others who have
had the same procedure done.
Talk with some of your surgeon’s
other patients in order to gain
perspective. Other success stories
can remarkably ease your mind.
8 - Visualize life after surgery
Recognize that the pain and
deterioration of your joint has di-
minished your quality of life. Vi-
sualize yourself getting your life
back after surgery.
9 - Acknowledge anxiety
Realize that you may feel in-
creasingly tense or anxious as the
surgery date approaches. Don’t
fight it - it’s normal!
10 - Commit to the process
Make a commitment to do
your part to ensure a positive out-
come. Actively participate in the
process and assume responsibili-
ty for your own care (for example
- follow precautions, do exercises
daily).
Knowing what to expect with surgery before you get to the hospital can make
you less anxious about your surgical experience - and less stress helps a
person recover faster.
11 - Practice using crutches
If you have spent time on
crutches before, reacquaint your-
self with them. Practice on your
crutches, so the awkwardness is
not overwhelming just after sur-
gery.
12 - Invest in your rehabilitation
Don’t view the recovery
period as time lost, but rather as
time to rest and recuperate. Real-
ize that the time you will invest in
the rehabilitation process is nec-
essary for better health.
13 - Prepare for physical therapy
Realize that physical therapy
is critical for a successful out-
come. Envision each exercise as
a stepping stone toward improved
strength, range-of-motion, and
function.
14 - Keep organized
Remember that you will be
laid up for several weeks. Orga-
nize your life! Schedule appoint-
ments and take care of business
as much as possible in the weeks
prior to surgery.
15 - Follow proper nutrition
Take multi-vitamins and eat
well-balanced meals in the weeks
or months prior to surgery, so that
the healing of surgical wounds
will be promoted.
16 - Watch for signs of infection
before surgery
Infection can be a devastat-
ing complication of joint surgery.
If any sign of infection exists any-
where in the body, surgery must
be postponed.
17 - Sign up for autologous blood
donation
In the weeks prior to surgery,
donate autologous units of blood
to be held for your operation.
18 - Do you need to stop any med-
ications?
Ask your doctor if you need
to stop any of your medications
prior to surgery.
19 - Seek assistive devices and
adaptive equipment
Make your environment
ready for your homecoming be-
fore you go into the hospital.
Have assistive devices and
other adaptive equipment avail-
able, such as: raised toilet seats,
reacher aids, shower benches
20 - Arrange for help
Arrange for someone to be
with you, especially the first week
or two after you go home from
the hospital. If no one is avail-
able, make arrangements to enter
a post-op inpatient rehabilitation
facility until you become inde-
pendent and are able to care for
yourself at home.
Your Goals
Never lose sight of your
goals. The surgeon and surgical
team do their work in the operat-
ing room - the rest is up to you.
Be inspired and work hard during
the rehabilitation phase of your
recovery.

SANDRA SUMNER-WRIGHT, PA Getting the Nutrition Your Body Needs

ATTORNEY AT LAW As you get older, good nutrition plays an
increasingly important role in how well you
age. Eating a low-salt, low-fat diet with plenty
Probate • Wills of fruits, vegetables, and fiber can actually re-
Powers of Attorney • Real Estate duce your age-related risks of heart disease,
Crowfield Executive Park diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis, and other
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Goose Creek, SC 29445 843.572.2021 foods, you can pretty easily get what your body
needs, including:
Thirty Years of General Practice
Protein, which is needed to maintain and re-
build muscles. You can get low-fat, quality pro-
tein from poultry, fish, eggs or egg substitutes, limited fat intake from the polyunsaturated fats
soy, and limited amounts of nuts and low-fat (as in liquid corn oil or soybean oil) and mono-
meat and dairy. unsaturated fats (in olive oil, avocados, and
Carbohydrate, which is the body’s preferred nuts). Limit saturated fats (beef, pork, veal, but-
source of energy. There are two main sources ter, shortening, and cheese). You can do this
of dietary carbohydrates: simple sugars, such by eating these foods less often, having small-
as sucrose (the refined white sugar added to er servings, choosing less fatty cuts of meat,
Eggs, pancakes, sandwiches, soups, sweets and desserts), fructose (the sugar con- and by using stronger tasting cheeses so you
desserts and the largest selection of tained in fruit), and lactose (milk sugar); and can use just a little and still get the cheese fla-
vegetables of anyone in town! complex carbohydrates, which come from vor. Try to avoid the trans fats (hydrogenated
More food for your dollar! vegetables and grains. Unlike refined sugars, fats) found in stick margarine and in many pro-
fruits contain vitamins and fiber, dairy prod- cessed foods such as crackers and cookies.
Breakfast, lunch or dinner ucts contain nutrients such as calcium and vi- Trans fats are now shown on the nutrition facts
served anytime. tamin D, and complex carbohydrates contain labels found on most packaged foods.
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12 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc

 Hip and Knee News
Hip Replacement Surgery
By Dr. Eric Stem
The initial management of
hip arthritis can include activity
modification, weight loss, use of a
cane, medications, and injections.
When the pain from hip arthritis
progresses to the point that it is no
longer controlled by medical and
non-operative treatments, surgery
may be considered.
Total hip replacement is the
final treatment option for hip ar-
thritis. In this surgery all of the
remaining cartilage is removed
from the hip by replacing the ball
and resurfacing the socket. Once
the remaining cartilage has been
removed, the arthritis is gone and
cannot return.
The hip is a ball and socket
joint that is composed of the junc-
tion between the acetabulum (the
socket portion of the pelvis) and
the femur (thigh bone). In hip re-
placement surgery, or total hip re-
placement (THR), the native ball
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The patient’s is replaced with the ball of this ball-and-socket joint replaced
by a metal head that is set in the thighbone or femur and the socket replaced
by a white plastic cup. Hip replacement is currently the most successful and
reliable orthopaedic operation[citation needed] with 97% of patients reporting
improved outcome.
and socket are replaced with a
mechanical ball and socket joint.
A small number of muscles are
cut during the surgery, which are
typically repaired at the end of
the procedure. After the hip joint
is opened, only a small amount of
bone is removed during the sur-
gery. All of the soft tissues, which
include all of the ligaments, ten-
dons, and muscles, remain in place
around the hip.
During the procedure, all of
the damaged cartilage is removed
from the socket and the socket is
reshaped with a round shaver. A
metal shell is then impacted into
the newly reshaped socket. The
socket is tightly placed, so it will
not move. Screws can also be
used for additional fixation to the
bone. Over time, bone grows into
the coating on the shell, which
provides long term stability to the
socket. After the socket is fixed in
place, an insert is placed inside the
shell, which serves as the bearing
surface. This insert can be metal,
ceramic, or high density polyeth-
ylene (a high tech plastic). Occa-
sionally, the socket is cemented
in place, due to poor bone quality
or anatomical considerations. The
worn out ball is then cut off of the
end of the femur. This is replaced
by a new prosthetic ball, which is
attached to a stem that fits inside
the femur (thigh bone).
Two types of stems can be
used, either cemented or unce-
mented. With the uncemented
stem, the bone grows to the coat-
ing on the stem. The femur (thigh
bone) is prepared to accept the
stem by removing a small amount
of the soft bone from inside it. The
stem is then either cemented or
impacted tightly into the femur de-
pending on the type of stem being
used. After the stem is firmly fixed
in the femur, a new prosthetic ball
is placed on the top of the stem.
This ball can be either metal (co-
balt-chrome) or ceramic. The ball
is carefully placed into the socket
and the soft tissues around the hip
are repaired. There is no linkage
between the ball and socket. Con-
necting the ball and socket creates
high stresses on the implants and
this leads to early failure of the
prosthesis. The prosthetic joint is
held together by the natural mus-
cles, ligaments, and tendons.
After the surgery you can be
partially or fully weight bearing
on the operative leg, depending on
your surgeon’s recommendation.
Getting started in therapy as soon
as possible after surgery is impor-
tant, because it starts the muscles
on the road to recovery and de-
creases your risk of developing a
blood clot. The risk of develop-
ing a blood clot after hip surgery
is high. This risk can be decreased
by wearing compressive stockings,
taking a blood thinner, and moving
the muscles in the legs.
Since the ball and socket are
held together by the tension of the
soft tissues around them, it is pos-
sible to dislocate the hip, or pop
the ball out of the socket. A hip
dislocation is more common in the
first six to eight weeks after hip re-
placement, but it can occur at any
time. Dislocations typically occur
when the hip is put in certain po-
sitions, either a highly flexed or
highly rotated position. Discuss
the risky positions with your sur-
geon and therapist so you will have
a good understanding of which po-
sitions are safe. Hip dislocations
can typically be treated without
surgery. If the hip dislocation re-
curs multiple times, revision sur-
gery may be indicated. Prevention
of the first dislocation is better than
treating a dislocated hip.
Hip replacements can last
many years, fifteen to twenty years
on average, but they can wear out
or loosen over time. Joint replace-
ments wear out faster in younger
patients due to increase activ-
ity levels and increased demands
Hip & Knee News
By Dr. Eric Stem
placed on the implants. Conse-
quently, it is important to have
regular periodic check-ups with
an orthopaedic surgeon in order to
check an x-ray to insure that the
hip implant is holding up.
Most problems are easier to
correct if they are identified early.
Unfortunately, a failed implant
usually does not cause symptoms
until a significant amount of dam-
age has occurred.
Hip replacement surgery is
a safe and extremely successful
surgery with 90 to 95 percent of
patients having good to excellent
relief of their pain after surgery.
There are a small number of risks
involved in the surgery, which in-
cludes the risk of anaesthesia, frac-
ture, dislocation, infection, blood
clots, leg length inequality and
implant failure. Only you know if
your hip pain is limiting enough to
make the benefits of surgery out-
weigh the risks.
For additional information
regarding hip replacement or any
other orthopaedic problem, point
your internet browser to the Amer-
ican Academy of Orthopaedic Sur-
geons web site, www.orthoinfo.
org.
Dr. Eric Stem is an Ortho-
paedic Surgeon with sub-
specialty training in joint
replacement and recon-
struction.
Eric S. Stem, M.D.
Hip and Knee Center
Lowcountry Orthopaedics
North Charleston, S.C.,
29406
(843)797-5050
This article is for provided
for general information only
and is not a substitute for
seeking appropriate medi-
cal care.
• APRIL, 2010 13
 April is Alcohol Awareness Month
Staying healthy means
using our own awareness
and careful understanding Mature Adults and Alcohol
of our own health. To be
Surveys indicate that six to eleven percent of el-
healthy is to be aware of
what diseases or disorders derly patients admitted to hospitals exhibit symp-
are out there, what may af- toms of alcoholism, as do 20 percent of elderly
fect you and what you can patients in psychiatric wards and 14 percent of
do to prevent it or treat it. elderly patients in emergency rooms.
The prevalence of problem drinking in nursing
homes is as high as 49 percent in some studies.
It’s About Your Health Late onset alcohol problems also occur in some
retirement communities, where drinking at social
The consumption of alcohol slows down brain activity. For a ma- gatherings is of-
ture adult who may already have issues with senility, excessive ten the norm.
drinking can be fatal. There is the risk of falls or accidents. As we For American
age our body’s ability to absorb and dispose of alcohol changes. women age 60
Over time, heavy drinking permanently damages the central ner- and over, sub-
vous system, the brain, liver, kidneys, stomach and heart. The stance abuse
anesthetic effects of alcohol can dull the warning signs that could and addiction to
signal a heart attack. The effects of alcohol can also make medi- cigarettes, alco-
cal problems hard to diagnose. Alcohol changes the heart and hol, and psycho-
active prescrip-
blood vessels. For older Americans with Alzheimer’s, the risk is
tion drugs are at
ten fold, for alcohol increases the problem of forgetfulness and epidemic levels.
confusion. Alcohol is a drug and is often harmful when mixed with One report found
prescription or over-the-counter medications, which the majority that women over 59 are susceptible to abuse and
of older adults take. Even just mixing alcohol with aspirin can addiction to these substances because they get
cause a much higher risk of bleeding in the stomach and intes- addicted faster when using smaller amounts than
tines. None of this has even really touched on the social stigma any other group.
that is attached to being a drinker of a certain age. 1.8 million older women are addicted to or abuse
alcohol; 2.8 million abuse or are addicted to
If you are a older adult and suspect that you may have a drinking psychoactive prescription drugs; and 4.4 million
problem, you can be comforted with the knowledge that there is smoke cigarettes.
plenty of help out there. You could start by contacting your clergy
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
or your local social services agency. Or there is AA. In every town
Administration (SAMHSA) Center for Substance
across the nation just pick up a phone book and you will find an Abuse Treatment estimates that up to 17 per-
Alcoholic Anonymous chapter near you. Most people know what cent of adults over the age of 60 (approximately
AA is but if you don’t, it is a voluntary fellowship of alcoholics who 8 million people) abuse substances – primarily
help themselves and each other get and stay sober. The National alcohol, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter
Institute on Aging also offers resources on health and aging and medication.
will help you get the help you need. For help in understanding and finding help for a
Courtesy www.associatedcontent.com senior alcohol or drug abuse problem, visit:
http://www.drug-rehab.com.

www.
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14 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc

 Understanding the Health Care Bill
President Obama and Demo-
crats in Congress have come to
the end of a 14-month health care
odyssey. The result is a historic
new health law that will make
sweeping changes in our health
system over the next few years.
They include new consumer pro-
tections, coverage of millions of
uninsured people, penalties for
individuals and businesses who
don’t buy insurance, attempts to
control rising costs, and Medicare
savings and new taxes to pay for
it all. Here is a year-by-year look
at what’s in store:
2010
Adults who can’t get cov-
erage because of a pre-existing
medical condition can join a high-
risk insurance pool (this is an in-
terim step pending the launch in
2014 of competitive health insur-
ance marketplaces and premium
subsidies).
Insurance companies will
have to issue policies for chil-
dren with pre-existing conditions.
They will not be allowed to re-
voke existing policies if people
get sick. Lifetime limits on cover-
age will be banned in new cover-
age and annual limits will be re-
stricted. Preventive services will
be fully covered, with no co-pays
or deductibles. Coverage will be
available for dependent children
until they turn 26.
People in the Medicare pre-
scription drug program will re-
ceive a $250 rebate as the first
step in closing the coverage gap,
or “doughnut hole,” that requires
them to pay full freight after they
have spent $2,700 on drugs. The
gap would be phased out entirely
by 2020.
Certain small businesses will
start getting tax credits to offset
up to 35 percent of the cost of in-
suring their employees. That will
rise to 50 percent in 2014.
Plans must have “an effec-
tive apeals process” for decisions
and claims. States will get grants
to set up programs that help con-
sumers with complaints or ques-
tions about health insurance. The
federal government will set up a
website to help people in different
states figure out their insurance
options.
The first tax increase kicks in: A
10 percent tax on indoor tanning
services.
2011
Medicare changes will in-
clude free annual wellness visits;
little to no cost-sharing for pre-
ventive care, like immunizations
and cancer screenings; bonuses to
primary care doctors and general
surgeons; a new Center for Medi-
care and Medicaid Innovation to
test ways to provide better, more
efficient care; and, the start of a
phase-out of overpayments to
private Medicare Advantage in-
surers. People in the prescription
“doughnut hole” will receive dis-
counts on prescriptions.
2012
There will be new money for
primary care services and new
incentives to encourage doctors
to join together in “accountable
care organizations.” The govern-
ment will track re-admission rates
at hospitals and impose penalty
fees on hospitals with the highest
rates.
2013
This is when higher taxes will
begin for households with income
above $250,000 and individuals
above $200,000. The Medicare
payroll tax on earnings above
those amounts will rise from 1.45
percent to 2.35 percent. Unearned
income above those amounts,
such as dividends, will now be
subject to a 3.8 percent tax.
In addition, maximum contri-
butions to pre-tax Flexible Sav-
ings Account contributions will
be limited to $2,500 a year (down
from the current $3,050 for indi-
viduals).
There will be a new 2.9 per-
cent excise tax on medical devic-
es.
Medicare will sponsor a na-
tional pilot program on “payment
bundling” -- paying hospitals,
doctors and other providers based
on patient outcome, not services
provided.
2014
More consumer protections
begin. Insurance companies will
not be able to deny policies to
anyone based on their health
status or to refuse coverage of a
treatment based on pre-existing
health conditions. Their ability
to charge higher rates to people
based on age, geography, family
size or tobacco use will be lim-
ited. Annual limits on coverage
will be abolished.
Each state will open a health
insurance exchange, or market-
place, for individuals and small
businesses without coverage.
People will be able to compari-
son shop for standardized health
packages. There will be a multi-
state private plan available na-
tionwide, supervised by the U.S.
Office of Personnel Management.
Tax credits will be available to
make insurance and care afford-
able for people who make too
much to qualify for Medicaid, but
have incomes below 400 percent
of poverty.
Most people will be required
to buy insurance coverage or pay
penalties that start at $95 in 2014
and rise to $695 or 2.5 percent of
income in 2016. Employers with
50 or more workers who do not
offer coverage will have to pay
annual fees.
Medicaid eligibility will in-
crease to 133 percent of the pov-
erty level ($14,404 for individu-
als) for everyone under 65 (when
they qualify for Medicare).
2015
A new Independent Payment
Advisory Board will be formed
to come up with ways to lower
Medicare costs and promote bet-
ter care. The recommendations
will go to Congress and private
insurers.
2018
This is when the most con-
troversial new tax begins, a 40
percent excise tax on insurance
companies and plan administra-
tors for any family plan that costs
more than $27,500. The tax ap-
plies to the cost above that thresh-
old. There are higher thresholds
for retirees over 55 and plans that
cover workers in high-risk jobs.
2019
The new system will have
reduced the number of uninsured
people by 32 million, according
to the nonpartisan Congressional
Budget Office. That will leave
an estimated 23 million unin-
sured, one-third of them illegal
immigrants. Coverage of legal
residents too young for Medicare
(under age 65) will be 94 percent,
up from 83 percent now.
Sources: House Energy and
Commerce Committee, Speaker’s
Office, WhiteHouse.gov, Kai-
ser Health News, Congressional
Budget Office.

Spotlight on Caregivers
“There are only four kinds of people in the world — those who have been care-
givers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers and
those who need caregivers” - Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter

Caregivers not only have Caregiver Health Tips: Featured Caregiver

to deal with a loved one’s health
issues, they also have to stay
fit themselves. As life expec-
tancy increases, (it is currently
81 years for men, and 84 years
for women) the likelihood of a
caregiver having to deal with
their own health issues as well
also increases. Caregiving for
a loved one can be one of the
most stressful events you ever
experience. In fact, the 25 mil-
lion Americans currently act-
ing as caregivers for their loved
ones are often referred to as
‘hidden patients’ because their
own health is often neglected.
Find your sense of humor.
Laughter releases positive emo-
tions that can get you through al-
most anything in life. Exercise is
important. But exercise doesn’t
necessarily mean having to be-
long to a gym to ‘work out’. Go
for abrisk walk on the beach or at
your favorite park. This will help
‘work out’ those stressful things
that ail you on a daily basis.
Keep a journal of your caregiving
regimen. This will inject perspec-
tive into the bigger picture.
The Lowcountry Sun will
feature Charleston resident,
Emory’s School of Nursing
Dewey Teske, in the May edition.
Dewey is a baby boomer with a
Receives Large Gift
distinguished naval career. He
is also an unpaid caregiver de- Emory’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in
voted to the well being of a loved Atlanta received $8.16 million from the Bill & Melinda
one’s life. The Lowcountry Sun
web site ---www.lowcountrysun.
Gates Foundation for a project designed to improve ma-
sc--- will also host your care- ternal and newborn survival rates in rural Ethiopia. This
giver stories come May, as we is the largest gift in the school’s history. The Gates Foun-
dedicate a forum and build a
caregiver blog for those wanting dation continues to be the most generous philanthropic
to share their own hardships, tri- vehicle in the world donating an average of $800M per
umphs, advice and overall expe-
rience of having two lives. year amounting to billions of dollars for various charities
Thanks to Lowcountry Yan- since its inception.
kees fan, Tom Sweeney, for his
power of suggestion.

We specialize in 2880 Tricom Street

the treatment of North Charleston, SC 29406
843.797.5050
hip and knee pain www.lowcountryortho.com

• One-stop shopping for hip and knee problems

• The only fellowship-trained joint replacement
Dr. Richard Zimlich, M.D. Dr. Eric Stem, M.D.
surgeons in the North area

Comprehensive Joint Care

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 15

Preserve Your Independence
Stay in the home you love with confidence
and help 24/7 with the push of a button.
The Charleston Referral Exchange Town Center at 4776 Hwy 165

Call 720-8440 Meets every Thursday morning from 8 Meggett, SC

a.m. – 9:15 a.m. in the Rooftop Restau- The festival features Lowcountry Artists

Roper St. Francis Lifeline

1 Start Smart PLAYTIME
Award Winning Fitness Programs For Adults Age 50+
865 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC 29412
(843)762-9555
3 HAT DIVAS SOCIETY INC.
6 The Heart of the Caregiver
6 AARP Mount Pleasant
7 Computer Classes
and Crafters, St Paul’s Garden Club Flow
rant at the Holiday Inn Riverview; 301 er Show will be on display, Educational
Savannah Highway (known as the Displays, Food Vendors, Antique Trac-
Round Holiday Inn just over the bridge tor Display, Silent Auction, Raffles and
from Charleston on Highway 17.) Please much more.
come as our guest. For more information, 843-889-3622
townofmeggett@comcast.net
please call Nancy Green at 843-364-8465.
10 First Annual Captain’s Choice Golf
Tournament
Hazel Parker Playground, 70 East Bay St. Tee-Off 1:30pm -Shotgun Start
Downtown Charleston Shadowmoss Golf Club
6 sessions beginning April 1st Snacks * Cookout * Prizes
10am -10:45am Age: 2 ½ to 3 years old
20 Dunvegan Drive, Charleston, SC
shinnm@bellsouth.net or
Cost: $20 843-574-6655
Children will burn off some energy in this Sponsored by: Chapter 266 -
mini sports program. Game stations are Mended Hearts Inc.
set up so that children can try differ 10-18 Family Circle Cup
ent activities at their own pace. Their Family Circle Tennis Center,
will be bowling stations, target throwing Daniel Island
stations, basketball shooting stations, World No. 1 Tennis Champ Serena Wil-
liams faces Caroline Wozniacki, Victoria
golf stations, soccer kicking stations and Azarenka, Jelena Jankovic, Samantha Sto
much more. *Each child must be accom- sur and many more-world cass tennis play
panied by an adult. for mor info, www. ers.
charlestoncity.info/dept/?nid=22 10 7TH ANNUAL PARK CIRCLE PLANT SWAP
10am set-up and browse....11am swap...
immediately afterwards...LUNCH!
12 Noon Park Circle, North Charleston, by the Gaze
Annual Easter Luncheon bo. “What kind of plants should I bring?”
High Cotton Restaurant The motto is: If it grows, It goes!! Shrubs,
199 East Bay St. Charleston Houseplants, Annuals, Perennials, Yard
For info and membership: call Belinda Art, Tools, Seeds, Pots, if it is garden relat
ed... BRING IT!! Bring a Pot Luck dish. Email
843-330-1395
for more info and directions, Cactusmusic@
netzero.com
Bible Study
11 Estate Planning Seminar
9 AM - 10:30 AM, Seacoast Church
Kuhn and Kuhn
Longpoint Road, Mt. Pleasant
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
developed for women who are car-
Hampton Inn, Mt. Pleasant
ing for someone in their family who
1104 Isle of Palms Connector
is chronically ill or disabled. The
essence of this study is that caregivers 12 Estate Planning Seminar
will come to see themselves, their situa Kuhn & Kuhn
tion, and the person they are caring for in 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
a whole new way – through the light of and 6:00 PM - 08:00 PM
God’s amazing love. Small fee for work Town & Country Inn, West Ashley
book. 2008 Savannah Hwy.
Contact the.caregiver@comcast.net 12 Citizens of the World presented by
for more information and to sign up PrudentiaL
or contact Abbie Kowalke @ 486-0193 4:30pm - 7:00pm
ext. 1601 Celebration of diversity inspired by tennis
legend Arthur Ashe.
East Cooper Chapter Family Circle Tennis Center
5:30 p.m. Dunlop Sport / Playmate Ball Machine
Mt. Pleasant Senior Center (Card Room) tennis games, Lowcountry Tennis
Von Kolnitz Road. For more information, Association tennis clinics, City of
contact Debra Whitfield, president Charleston Touch-a-Truck program,
at 856-8800 live music, face-painting, Coast
Guard / Navy / Air Force F-16/ C-17
displays, a flight simulator, Armed
9:30-10:30am
Forces football toss challenge, a military
WWW What? An Introduction
Battle of the Branches contest, Navy
to the Internet

SENIOR SERVICES
PRIDE band, College of Charleston
Dorchester County Library
Men’s Basketball team, South Carolina
Summerville Branch
Stingrays, Charleston Battery, Charles-
Services for shut-ins and disabled gentlemen
Sign up at the library.
ton County School District Quickstart
Contact Kathy Marrah at 871-5075
Spirit Award competition, mascot appear
8 Computer Classes ances from local sports teams, and a

843.303.3168
9:30-10:30am meet and greet with cast members of the
Email Basics hit Lifetime show Army Wives.
Dorchester County Library FREE
Summerville Branch
Sitting • Shopping Sign up at the library.
13 Living Well:
East Cooper Community Outreach
Doctor Appointments Contact Kathy Marrah at 871-5075
Tuesdays, April 13-May 18, 12:30-3pm.
Errands • Personal assistant 10 Estate Planning Seminar Join this innovative workshop designed
Kuhn & Kuhn specifically for people with diabetes,
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM arthritis, asthma, heart, back or other
Let us take care of your needs
eeds

and 6:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Town & Country Inn, West Ashley


ongoing health conditions. Learn new
ways to take charge. This six-week work
2008 Savannah Hwy. shop is free for members and nonmem
10 April in Meggett Arts and bers. A $15 donation is appreciated to
Crafts Festival cover the cost of the book you keep.
10am - 3pm

seniorservice2@aol.com

16 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc



13 Estate Planning Seminar chusetts; and the American Library Associa- Island. Thirty local crafters will be there with
Kuhn and Kuhn tion, Chicago, Illinois, through funding pro a variety of handmade items for sale. Lunch
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM vided by the National Aeronautics and Space will be available.
Country Inn & Suites, Summerville Administration. Ramona Small, Chairman Ad Committee/Island
220 Holiday Dr. (Exit 199-A) Visit www.dcl.lib.sc.us for specific days Crafters Guild, calicocc@bellsouth.net.
14 Cost-Effective Divorce Solutions and times and registration information 26-30 St. Philip’s Tea Room
10am-11pm for these events. Individuals may also Parish Hall, at the corner of Church and
Free Seminar, Klok Law Firm, LLC, 1002 call the library for further information at Cumberland Streets.
Anna Knapp Blvd., Suite 103, Mount 871-5075(Summerville) or 563-9189(St. 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pleasant, SC 29464, please contact George). “Charleston Receipts” okra soup, classic
Suzanne Klok at 216-8860 to register or 22 Health & Wellness chicken salad and shrimp salad. Desserts,
to schedule a free initial consultation. 2:30-1:30pm made by parishioners, include Hummingbird
14 Computer Classes Lowcountry Senior Center, 865 Riverland Cake, Coconut Cake, Huguenot Torte and a
9:30-10:30am Drive, Charleston wide variety of others.
Word Basics Alzheimer’s vs. Forgetfulness: Tyler Love, 843-471-2508
Dorchester County Library John Kleckley, MD of Lowcountry tylerandstevelove@gmail.com
Summerville Branch Geriartrics is the speaker. Caroline Burns, 843-345-4851
Sign up at the library. Free formembers, $5 for nonmembers. clineburns@aol.com
Contact Kathy Marrah at 871-5075 843.762.9555. Lavonda Doyle, 843-847-1796
23 - 24 OLGC MEMORIAL GARDEN YARD SALE mileyconsulting@aol.com
15 Computer Classes
9:30-10:30am 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM each day. 28 Cost-Effective Divorce Solutions
Resume Writing Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish Memorial 10am-11pm
Dorchester County Library Garden Committee Proceeds will be used Free Seminar, Klok Law Firm, LLC, 1002
Summerville Branch for the Parish Memorial Garden next to the Anna Knapp Blvd., Suite 103, Mount
Sign up at the library. church on Center Street. Appliances, gift Pleasant, SC 29464, please contact
Contact Kathy Marrah at 871-5075 ware, household goods, kitchen items, Suzanne Klok at 216-8860 to register or
knickknacks, ladies’ & men’s accessories, to schedule a free initial consultation.
15 Know Your Community linens, and outdoor furniture. Donations are
10am - 11am 28 “ROMANCING THE HUNLEY, circa 1864”
being accepted. Powder Magazine, 79 Cumberland Street,
Lowcountry Senior Center, 865 Riverland Father Kelly Hall at 105 West Hudson Ave.
Drive, Charleston 3:30 PM
Folly Beach. Nancy Biddlecom at 795-0002 The story of the Confederate Submarine
Trident Area Agency on Aging: Our local or Tom Bahringer at 406-0004.
community has many resources to of Tickets are $15.
fer its citizens. Come find out more about 23 2010 North Charleston This “charming, tragic, but entertain
the Trident Area Agency on Aging and Arts Festival Gala ing, drama is short and sweet. It is based
what services and information they can 6:30-11:00PM on an intimate dialogue between Wil-
offer older adults. Free for members and Charleston Area Convention liam Thomas-Moore, who portrays the
nonmembers. 843.762.9555. Center Ballroom fictional character, “Dr. Moore,” the
Heavy hors d’oeuvres, Leonard School physician to the crew and residents of
16 - 18 The Civil War Battle of Charleston . of Music Jazz Combo, the Fabulous Chi- Charleston, and Diane, a modern day
Legare Farms, Johns Island. Living History nese Acrobats, gymnastics, balancing, news reporter. Call 843. 722-9350.
School Day, Infantry, Calvary, Artillary, Field juggling, dance, comedy, and magic. For online ticket sales: www.powdermag.
Hospital, Civilian Refugees, Suttlers & More! Desserts and dancing to Heart & Soul. org. There is limited seating.
Call 843-559-0788 for info. Tickets: $75 each – Group discounts 30 – May 8, 2010 North Charleston
available. Ticket packages include park
17 HAT DIVAS SOCIETY, INC. Arts Festival
ing, pre-performance reception & enter One of the most comprehensive arts fes
2:30 - 4:30 P.M. tainment, performance, and post-perfor-
“TEA” with HABITAT for HUMAN- tivals in the Lowcountry, The Main Event,
mance party w/ dessert and entertain- held May 1 & 2 at the North Charleston
ITY, to benefit the “Women Build” ment. Performing Arts Center & Charleston Area
Sea Island, Tickets: $75 each Convention Center Complex. Free admis
The Charleston Tea Plantation, Pam Smith at 843-740-5854 sion and parking. Judged art, photography,
Wadmalaw Island. 24 Sell for a cure-Yard Sale! and fine craft exhibitions, a gem & min
Wonderful food, music, silent auction, and Rain or shine, 8-5 eral show, children’s activities, Art & Craft
Goose Creek Wal-Mart booths, and an Outdoor Food Court. Fire
beautifully decorated tables. Public is in 605 St. James Ave. works over the Cooper River at the Grand
vited, 30.00 Per person, for ticket info: Fundraiser! Breast Cancer Awareness Finale at Riverfront Park on Saturday, May
Molly Coffey 843-768-0998 Limited tables, Please RSVP. Call for more 8. Info: www.northcharleston.org.
17 Indoor Juried Art Exhibition Piccolo information. Contact: 843-740-5854
Spoleto Evelyn 843-901-0976 Michelle Whitbeck, 843-720-8505
Deadline for Entries: 5pm Dutch 843-906-6900 mwhitbeck@mac.com
The City of Charleston Office of Cultural 24-25 The Island Crafters Guild Spring Show For information about the Charleston
Affairs and the Charleston Artist Guild are 9 to 5, Saturday -1 to 5, Sunday Men’s Chorus, call 843-720-8505 or
collaborating to produce the 2010 Juried Masonic Lodge,Ft. Johnson Road, James www.cmchorus.com.
Art Exhibition at Piccolo Spoleto this
May-June in Charleston, SC. Margaret
Hoybach and Jack Alterman will jury the
exhibition. Artists from across South
Carolina are encouraged to submit their
works for consideration of being included
in this exhibition.
Please send your Name and Email
Address to Cultural_Affairs@ci.charleston.
sc.us to be added to the Application
Email List.
21 Cost-Effective Divorce Solutions
10am-11pm
Free Seminar, Klok Law Firm, LLC, 1002
Anna Knapp Blvd., Suite 103, Mount
Pleasant, SC 29464, please contact
Suzanne Klok at 216-8860 to register or
to schedule a free initial consultation.
21 Visions of the Universe
Dorchester County Library
Traveling photographic exhibit covering 400
years of space exploration and is presented
by the Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, Maryland; the Smithsonian Astro
physical Observatory, Cambridge, Massa

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 17

Be Counted... BUT Watch for Census Scams
The U.S. Census -- which
comes around every 10 years -- is
harmless, right? Actually, no. It
could be very bad for you if you
get caught in one of the census
scams floating around.
The 2010 U.S. Census sur-
vey has been mailed to all U.S.
residents, opening the door to con
artists who will use the program
as an opportunity to swindle peo-
ple out of their money and their
identity.
The Census questionnaire
asks 10 questions, none involving
personal financial information
such as bank account or credit
card numbers or your Social Se-
curity number.
Already, there have been re-
ports of people identifying them-
selves as Census takers, contact-
ing senior citizens in Chicago and
trying to extract their financial ID
numbers, says William Kresse,
associate professor and director
of the Center for the Study of
Fraud and Corruption at St. Xavi-
er University in Chicago.
“In the past, the fraud has
been related to identify theft,
gaining access to victims’ bank
accounts and credit card ac-
counts,” says Kresse.
Seniors are most at risk,
says Kresse. “Seniors tend to be
lonely and more willing to talk
with strangers on the phone than
any other group,” says Kresse.
“Many also have access to money
they’ve accumulated for retire-
ment or other assets.”
Here are some ways that
scammers may try to deceive you
and what you should do:
Phishing fraud: A phishing scam
typically uses a phony e-mail to
collect your personal or financial
information under false pretenses.
Fake Census survey: You receive
a fake 2010 Census questionnaire
in the mail, requesting your per-
sonal financial information.
The phony Census call: If some-
one calls you claiming to be
from the Census and asks you to
divulge personal financial infor-
mation, it’s a scam. Only in rare
instances, a Census worker may
call to clarify information you’ve
submitted, according to the Cen-
sus Web site.
A Census visit in person:
In this type of scam, some-
one knocks on your door, states
he is a Census worker and asks
you for money to pay for the 2010
Census, says Kresse.
Make sure you’re talking to a
Census worker, ask to see his of-
ficial government badge with his Did you know?
name and a Department of Com-
merce watermark. If you’re still Census Facts
not sure, there are numbers on the
Census Web site to call to confirm • Required by Article 1, Section
that the visit is legitimate. 2 of the U.S. Constitution.
Kim says the best way to • The first census was in 1790
avoid problems is to educate
yourself about the process by more than a year after the
checking out the Census Bureau nauguration of then President
Web site and to mail back your George Washington. Then,
10-question survey as soon as the U.S. population totaled 3.9
possible.
“Our site has the actual form million and the largest cities
and the questions we are asking, were New York, Philadelphia,
plus a link to questions you may and Boston.
have,” Kim says.
• Ex-slaves were named in the
Courtesy Bankrate.com
1870 census for the first time.

U.S. Passport Rules Revamped

If you will be traveling from
the United States to an interna-
tional port of call via the sea in the
upcoming months, passport regu-
lations updated as of June 2009
may cause some confusion.
Individuals taking a cruise
from a U.S. port who will be re-
turning to the same U.S. port
upon completion of the trip do not
need a passport. This is called a
closed-loop cruise. Passengers
will be able to enter the states
with a birth certificate (with raised
seal) and government-issued
photo ID. However, keep in mind
that regulations for entering ports
of call on the cruise vacation
(such as if the cruise ship makes
international stops in the Carib-
bean), may require a passport for
you to enter different countries. a more affordable option than a
Check with your cruise line to
ensure you have the appropriate
documents. Travelers flying to an
international location to connect
with a cruise WILL need to pres-
ent a passport. Air travel is still
governed under passport regula-
tions.
Passports and birth certifi-
cates aren’t the only acceptable
means of identification for sea
travel. Travelers may also want to
investigate other options.
According to the U.S. Depart-
ment of State, the relatively new
wallet-size U.S. Passport Card
is a travel document that may be
regular passport. It can be used to
enter the United States from Can-
ada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and
Bermuda at land border crossings
or sea ports-of-entry. It cannot be
used for international air travel.
The passport card, which is $45
for a first-time adult applicant and
$35 for children, is more conve-
nient and less expensive than a
passport book, which is roughly
$100. it, www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/
U.S. Customs and Border
Protection also informs travel-
ers that there are other means of
documentation.
Several states and Canadian
provinces/territories are issuing
an Enhanced Drivers License or
identification document that de-
notes identity and citizenship. It
is specifically designed for cross-
border travel into the United
States. NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST
enrollment cards are part of the
Trusted Traveler Program. They
are issued only to pre-approved,
low-risk travelers. The cards are
valid for use at land or sea. Vis-
trusted_traveler/ to learn more.
Before then, they were simply
recorded numerically by age.
• The 1900 census included
Hawaii for the first time.
• The 1940 census collected
information about the popula-
tion and its housing.
• Census 2000 incorporated a
$167 million advertising cam-
paign to reach every person
living in the United States.
Population Clock
308,949,322
as of March 27, 2010

18 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc


By Cappy Hall Rearick who were raised right, feel a
certain kind of reverence to this
“Sitting by the roadside almost holy way of cooking the
on a summer day, lowly goober. Yankees may think
Chatting with my messmates, we’re nuts, but that just puts into
passing time away, question how they were raised.
Lying in the shadow My Pennsylvania born husband
underneath the trees, Babe, for instance, eats anything
Goodness how delicious, not Super Glued to the floor so he
eating goober peas! may be an exception. He consid-
Peas! Peas! Peas! Peas! ers boiled peanuts a gourmet deli-
Eating goober peas! cacy, but then I
Goodness how delicious, work overtime
eating goober peas!” trying to purge
~ him of his Yan-
“Goober Peas,” written in 1866 by keeness.
A. Pindar and P. Nutt The large
quantity of All-
Although I am aware you are Yo u - C a n - E a t
reading this in April, March was Buffet restau-
named National Peanut Month, so rants found up
without further adieu, I implore and down the
all Georgia peanut growers to East Coast is
move over and make room for the clear evidence
South Carolina Peanut Gallery, that Southern-
Me. ers enjoy having an enduring
When it’s summertime in my taste for good food. We are proud
home state, it is also time for of our ability to pick something
frosty cold beer and munchies from the garden, like the pea-
around four o’clock in the after- nut, boil it to death in salt water
noon. Dry roasted peanuts just and then dance it around in our
don’t cut it as a doable munchie. mouths. Give me a cold beer and
Even Cape Cod Potato Chips, as a bowl of fresh goobers and I’ll
much as I adore them, don’t do shag to that tune any old day.
the trick. In my opinion, nothing I have tried explaining to our
can compete with a fresh batch of unenlightened northern friends
hot boiled peanuts, regular or Ca- that a boiled peanut is consid-
jun style. ered a viable food source in Di-
Southerners, at least the ones xie, but they simply frown and
shudder. Imagine that! Instead of
embracing the subtle salty flavor
and the delicately firm pip of the
South’s unofficial favorite food,
they dare to turn up their noses
without even a taste. I will never
understand how we lost the war to
those people.
When I pop a warm boiled pea-
nut in my mouth any time from
June through October, it is like
going back
to the womb.
Well, almost.
I never swal-
low that first
goober with-
out thinking
of the twenty-
five cent bags
that were
always avail-
able on the
street corners
in the small
South Carolina town where I
grew up.
When, several years ago Geor-
gia’s good neighbors to the north
were polled by Charleston’s Post
and Courier Food Editor in or-
der to ascertain South Carolina’s
most popular food, the ugly, no-
color, lowly, salty, boiled peanut
came out on top. Who’d have
thunk it? I was born and raised
in South Carolina, but nobody
polled me. If they had, I’d have
jumped up and down cheering for
Puttin’ On The Gritz
By Cappy Hall Rearick
the bald peanut, as we from the
Palmetto State like to say.
After reading about the food
poll, I began to ponder why it is
that the boiled peanut is so be-
loved in the South. Why, I asked
myself, do we put it up there on a
pedestal next to Robert E. Lee?
The quintessential Southerner,
like the boiled peanut is unpreten-
tious, albeit a bit salty. We South-
erners love tradition and a boiled
peanut is tradition; eating one is
not unlike a right of passage for
those lucky enough to be raised
below the Mason-Dixon Line. It
was a recognized Southern title-
holder long before Jimmy Carter
made it a household word all over
the world.
Like a religious experience, a
boiled peanut can change your
life.
When my brother’s wife, Eve,
moved to our small South Caro-
lina town from Wilmington, she
spied a boiled peanut stand on
the corner by Wood’s Five &
The Life and Times of
Cappy Hall Rearick
Humor writer, Cappy Hall
Rearick has won numerous
short story awards through-
out California, Pennsylvania,
Minnesota, New York, South
Carolina, Florida and Georgia.
In 2003, she was nominated
for the prestigious Georgia Au-
thor of the Year Award. She is a
member of the National Soci-
ety of Newspaper Columnists,
South Carolina Writers, Geor-
gia Writers Association and
Florida Writers Association.
Cappy and her Yankee hus-
band “Babe” live on St. Si-
mons Island. She is the mother
of two sons and six grandchil-
dren who all live in the South
Carolina lowcountry.
Cappy’s website: www.sim-
plysoutherncappy.com.
Dime for twenty-five cents a bag.
“I felt like crossing myself,” she
says. “A town with a local boiled
peanut stand is, in my opinion, a
town that has good taste.”
Which is to say, in my opin-
ion, that eating a boiled peanut is
about as close to a religious expe-
rience that I can think of. I might
not cross myself or genuflect in
front of a peanut stand, but I will
say this: if there are no boiled
peanuts in heaven, then I don’t
want to go there!

Mom and Pops

Blaine Moose
843.323.2240
8
Abi Moose
A
8
843.323.2239
Rest: 843.406.6666
momandpopscharleston.com
1291 Folly Road, James Island, South Carolina

Chiropractic is a Natural Health

Solution for Your Pain
◆ Low Back Pain
◆ Headaches
◆ Neck Pain
◆ Post Spinal Surgery
◆ Massage Therapy for
Pain Associated
with Osteoarthritis

Dr. Khouri and his staff

Dr. Khouri can develop and carry out a comprehensive

treatment and management plan that can include spinal
adjustments, soft tissue therapy, prescription of exercises,
and health and lifestyle counseling.

Khouri Chiropractic For an appointment call

119 East Bay Street, Suite 100
Charleston, SC 29401 843.853.BACK

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 19

 With mother nature allow-
ing spring to finally break we
will start seeing changes in our
lowcountry landscaping. First of
all, we have had a brutal winter
for our area compared to prior
years. back as the warmer temperatures
We should expect that some
plants that would normally make
it through the winter will not have
survived the cold and prolonged
temperatures we have seen. A lot
of southern grasses will have a
condition called winter kill. This
could be a situation where either
brown patch has over wintered
(see previous articles on brown
patch at w w w. p l e a s a n t l a n d -
scapes.com) or that the freezing
temperatures have actually killed
the southern grasses. The grasses
that often die first are ones that
are stressed out due to things like:
shade, foot traffic, or boggy con-
ditions.
The lowcountry is right on
the tip between a tropical envi-
ronment and a cold hardy envi-
ronment. We often see tropical
plants arrive in our garden centers
or big box stores. Sometimes cold
winters like we have had will put
a hurting on our more tropical
species of plants that many of us
enjoy in our landscaping. Peren-
nial flowers, shrubs and trees may
appear dead, but could actually
20 APRIL, 2010 •
still come back. If it is a woody
shrub then you can try scratching
the bark off to see if there is a soft
green wood underneath the bark.
If so, you have a good chance
this plant will be fine and come
resume. Some perennials will not
show any soft green texture and
will actually come back from the
roots as it warms up. If you have Out in the Yard
By James Parker
a plant in question, we advise cut-
ting it back to the ground, marking
man’s grass which means it re-
the area where it is at (so it won’t
quires very little fertilization and
be mistaken for a weed) and then
overall care. In today’s society we
seeing what happens over the
always want the bright green golf Spring is the time to pamper your lawn and plants to ensure a healthy and
next month or two. These plants
course looking grass, but Centi- green summer yard.
will often emerge thru fresh pine
pede should be the color of a lima concrete driveways and homes.
straw or mulch finding their way
bean. If you are going to use an iron Don’t forget your
to the warmth of the sun.
Our other southern turf grass- supplement to green up your lawn Lawn Mower Tune-Up
I would like to reiterate the
es can often take more nitrogen and shrubs keep if off of any new
idea that if you are not familiar Chances are your mower
which is the first of three numbers concrete, stucco or painted areas
with where this plant is located has been sitting dormant in a
on a fertilizer bag. The higher the of your property as it will oxidize
please be sure and mark it as it garage for three, four, maybe
first number is the more nitrogen in the air and cause an orange even five months. It’s time to
may look like a weed in the be-
contained in that bag of fertilizer. stain. get that thing out and show
ginning. Once it gets bigger it will
An easy way to get a nice green As always, if you have any
it some love. There are a
begin to bloom and resemble the few things you’ll need to do.
up on all plants and grass is thru questions about your lawn or gar-
original plant. Spring is often a First, change the oil, air filter
the use of iron. Iron promotes den you can reach me at:
time to add a well balanced fer- and spark plug. This is basic
a dark green color in plants and www.pleasantlandscapes.com yearly maintainence that will
tilizer to your lawn and shrubs. It
shrubs without the use of fertil- or at the following contact keep your machine running
will promote a spring flush of the
izers. Iron will give you the nice numbers:
smoothly for years longer
plants and a greening up of the than it would if you neglected
green color without causing the
lawn. More is not always better Summerville (843)851-8008 it. If you don’t care to attempt
grass and shrubs to grow rapidly.
when it comes to fertilizing lawn John’s Island (843)768-6808 these upgrades yourself, a
Care should be used with iron
and shrubs. This is especially true East Cooper (843)886-9314
mower repair shop or sales
supplements as iron is the same facility will take care of it for
for Centipede grass. Murrell’s Inlet: (843)928-4159
by-product that comes out of peo- you in exchange for a bit of
Centipede grass is a poor Daniel Island (843)216-4796
ple’s well water that stains their money.
www.lowcountrysun.sc
www.lowcountrysun.sc
 Thank you everyone for the nature of pornographic material, 3. Clarify your own value/reli- to the easy access to on-line por-
great response to my last two arti- the “pleasure high” it can create gious position about having any nography. It is one of the lead-
cles! Send me an email! Write to: and the resulting need for more of that material in your home re- ing causes of family breakdown
asksharpliz@gmail.com. and more graphic material for the gardless. Discuss this with your today. A silent tragedy is the un-
I am in the process of doing same result or high creates a trap husband, again with the help of known numbers of pornography
some personal responses as this that most people cannot escape a professional, or clergy, so that addicts who have progressed to
issue goes to publication. Keep from without specific help. There the issue does not erode the rest acting out their sexual addictions,
the questions and comments is research that indicates that of your marriage. I am concerned including on children.
coming! sexual addictions create a certain that your husband became defen- I recommend that all readers
A lot of questions have been chemical reaction in the brain. A sive when questioned--which can become “Stewards of Children”
coming up lately about a very few suggestions: be a sign of trouble. through “From Darkness to
serious subject--pornography ad- 1. Obtain a filter for your comput- 4. It takes a lot of love, for- Light” (From Darkness to Light.
diction. er that will keep imposing and in- giveness, clarity and excellent org) to learn how to protect chil-
appropriate materials from reach- boundary setting on the part of dren.
Dear Liz, ing your grandchildren. Seeing the spouse of the addict. If your There are countless pro-
My husband and I have had explicit material has been proven spouse will not seek help, please grams to help with pornography
a fairly good, frequent sex life in to be harmful to children--and in do for yourself. addiction, once a person recog-
our marriage. But, I’ve noticed teens can become the basis of a It is important to note that is- nizes they may have a problem.
that lately, he has been spending sexual addiction later on. sues around pornography are sta- Please write to me for infor-
an increasing amount of time “be- tistically impacting relationships mation about programs in your
hind closed doors” with his com- 2. Calmly discuss your con-
Dear Perplexed, cerns for the children with your in a negative manner in alarming area. My email is: asksharpliz@
puter. I did snoop, and discovered numbers. No less than 20-million gmail.com
Your letter echoed an in- husband, and if needed, seek the
in the history that he has been go- Americans are sexually addicted,
creasing number of similar ques- help of a professional to explain
ing to sites that I consider porno- (and that’s reported cases) -- with
tions. There are multiple issues the critical importance of taking
graphic. When I asked him about the numbers growing daily due
here, including the importance of steps to protect them.
it, he got very angry and told me
protecting young eyes from ex-
it was none of my business. Then
posure that can be harmful and
bills having to do with pornog-

LOOSE DENTURES?
confusing, and dealing with one
raphy showed up on our phone
of the most difficult addictions to
bill. We are in our mid 50’s. I
treat and overcome. It is impor-
am very uncomfortable with this,
tant to note that someone becom-
especially since our young grand-
ing involved with pornography
children sometimes use our com-
does not necessarily have any-
puter. Help!
thing to do with access to a will-
Perplexed, Charleston SC
ing marital partner. The graphic

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925-A Wappoo Rd. Charleston, SC 29407 1051 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite A
843.571.4301
Securities & investment advisory services offered through Transamerica Financial Advisors,
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
Inc. (TFA), a registered broker/dealer & investment advisor, member FINRA & SIP.
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www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 21
 Since every dollar counts
these days, homeowners need
sensible home improvement
products that can help increase
the value of their homes with-
out breaking the bank. Synthetic
millwork products are a fast, easy
way to reach this goal.
Easy-to-install urethane and
PVC products can enhance the
interior and exterior of any home
without busting a budget. For a
minimal product investment and
even less ‘sweat equity,’ hom-
eowners can gain maximum re-
sults.
Adding a urethane crosshead over an outside window takes just a few
minutes and adds instant curb appeal to a home.
Top twenty, 20-minute home
improvement projects include:
u Place a crosshead over an out-
side window with a keystone to
add curb appeal to the exterior of
the home.
u Wrap unsightly metal supports
in a finished basement with PVC
Column Wraps to add style to the
room.
u Use Victorian-style nips and
spires to accent exterior areas,
fencing and gated areas.
u Upgrade the look of a boring
kitchen island by adding decora-
tive brackets or corbels as accent
pieces.
u Add a urethane pineapple, the
international sign of hospitality,
above the front entry door.
u Dress up a porch area by add-
ing brackets to porch posts.
u Cover up unsightly wooden
porch posts with a semi-assem-
bled, two-piece classic style PVC
Column Wrap.
u Install carved leaf or grapevine
brackets under kitchen counter-
tops and shelves to add dimension
and visual appeal to the room.
u Add a two-piece urethane ceil-
ing medallion around a ceiling fan
or lighting fixture to “pop” some
visual friendliness to the ceiling.
u Add moisture-resistant corbels
to the top of cabinets to present
a more finished look in the bath-
room or laundry room.
u Create a unique window treat-
ment by hanging a pair of brack-
ets on either side of a window.
Insert a dowel rod through the
brackets and drape with fabric for
a fast and easy decorative win-
dow treatment.
u Accent interior doorways with
a keystone.
u Install a set of moisture-resis-
tant urethane pilasters on both
sides of a shower stall and a door
crosshead overhead to upgrade
the look of the bathroom.
u Create customized shelves to
house knick knacks using mould-
ing or PVC boards. Faux finish
the pieces to make a collection
stand out.
u Add a one-piece fireplace man-
tel surround to an existing fire-
place or create a faux fireplace
area using these durable accent
pieces.
u Create a welcoming look over
a garage or gable area by install-
ing a urethane wreath and bow.
The three-piece accent is 86” long
and 38” high and makes a stun-
ning accent on the home.
u Flank the window opening be-
tween two rooms (like a kitchen
and family room) with a pair
of urethane shutters. The light-
weight shutters can be stained or
painted to accent the walls.
u Top off a standard bookshelf
with an impressive combination
acorn pediment to add style in
any room.
u Add a scalloped moulding bor-
der to a child’s room to launch
into a princess or medieval theme
for the room.
u Install a set of pilasters on ei-
ther side of the garage door and a
long door crosshead over the top.
“Each of these projects can easily
be completed in just 20 minutes,”
says Mealer. “These are simple
do-it-yourself projects that quick-
ly and effectively upgrade your
home and bring years of lasting
satisfaction.”
Looking for an accent wall
that really “pops” in the home?
Eager to highlight a dormer
window with brick but lacking
the structural support to hold
up the weighty blocks? Light-
weight brick panels are the an-
swer.
“The restrictions and prob-
lems of installing heavy bricks
vanish when using panelized
products,” says Scott Jeffreys,
president of Performance
Brick. “Made of recycled gyp-
sum and reinforced with high-
density polymer materials, the
Lightweight brick panels accent
environmentally friendly pan-
the interior of your home in a
els can easily be added to any
very unique way.
area of the home.”
The overlapping and inter-
locking panels of Performance Brick attach easily and quickly to
wall substrates using the Fast-Track system. This system elimi-
nates the weight concerns associated with real brick and allows
for placement in tight-fitting locations. Along with installing brick
panels as exterior siding on the home, Jeffreys recommends
using the panels in unique applications, including:
1 To create an interior fireplace surround stretching up to
the ceiling.
2 To feature dormers on a home’s exterior.
3 To highlight areas above large windows and patio doors.
4 To create an accent wall under a kitchen counter area.
5 To enclose a screened-in porch or sunroom.
6 To transform an outdoor shed or workshop.
7 To skirt a front porch area.
8 To focus attention on a front porch or entryway.
9 To showcase the garage surround of the home.
10 To add dimension to a kitchen wall, pizza oven or country
kitchen fireplace.
The brick panels are made to replicate the Old World look of
handmade architectural brick. A “no repeat pattern” assures that
each project completed with Performance Brick is unique with
a one-of-a-kind appeal. Standard color options in the product
line include Cabernet Red, Darlington Rose, Manchester Brown
and Pearl Grey. For more information, visit www.performance-
buildingproducts.net.

“I believe that you control your destiny, that you can be what you want to be. You
can also stop and say, ‘No, I won’t do it, I won’t behave his way anymore. I’m lonely
and I need people around me, maybe I have to change my methods of behaving,’ and
then you do it.” - Leo F. Buscaglia
“Our thinking and our behaviour are always in anticipation of a response. It is there-
fore fear-based.” - Deepak Chopra
“Behavior is what a man does, not what he thinks, feels, or believes”
- anonymous

22 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc

 Improve fuel economy without changing your lifestyle
Few topics of discussion have
evoked as emotional a response
as gas prices over the last couple
of years. Depending on who you
watch on television or which
newspaper you read, the rising
costs of fuel either dictated our
lifestyle or barely changed it at
all.
As 2008 drew to a close,
however, fuel costs took a back-
seat to more pressing issues, such
as the failing economy and rising
unemployment rates. In addition,
for the first time in a long while,
the cost of fuel finally began to
dip, falling from more than $3 per
gallon to less than $2 per gallon,
and understandably making the
cost of fuel a much less pressing
concern.
However, while the cost of
fuel at the onset of 2009 was once
again back to normal, financial
prognosticators do not expect that
to last. In fact, many predict fuel
costs will rise again by the fall,
and continue to do so well into
2010. Motorists would be wise
to consider ways to improve their
vehicle’s fuel economy.
One way to do so without
making drastic changes to your
lifestyle is to use synthetic motor
oils instead of traditional petro-
leum motor oils. The benefits of
synthetic motor oils are many. Su-
perior wear protection, increased
horsepower, cooler running en-
gines, reduced deposits, reduced
oil consumption, resistance to
oxidation and breakdown, easier
winter starts. They all add up to a
better running, longer lasting ve-
hicle.
But with higher gas prices
on the horizon once again, the
fuel economy synthetic oils of-
fer is what’s most appealing to
motorists. By reducing friction,
synthetic motor oils greatly im-
prove a vehicle’s fuel efficiency,
enabling the engine to run more
smoothly and not forcing it to
work as hard as engines running
on traditional petroleum motor
oils. For more information on
synthetic oils, visit www.amsoil.com.

The 5 Most Expensive Restore cloudy headlight covers to

Vehicles to Insure crystal clear performance
The nation’s drivers often groan about the cost of automo- Cloudy headlights affect hundreds of thousands of vehicles in virtually every make
bile insurance. That reality has led to the proliferation of auto of car and truck. Clean the headlight lens with headlight cleaner kits or with items
insurance provider commercials on radio and television, each sometimes found at your local auto parts store. Save money over expensive
advertising more affordable rates. replacements, restore them yourself, it’s quick and easy.
While the company you choose can influence how much If your car is more than nearing nine years, the safety $30. And, the entire process
you’ll be paying to insure your next vehicle, a host of other fac- three or four years old and problem is growing, particu- takes approximately 30 min-
tors can also make a difference in your bottom line. Those fac- has plastic headlight lenses, larly in hot, sunny climates. utes, depending on the extent
tors include personal driving history, the neighborhood in which chances are you are among 3M, a trusted leader in au- of the damage.
you live and even how much you drive on a daily basis. the 15 million car owners bat- tomotive products, has a new The system includes all of
Another factor that can influence what you pay to insure your tling cloudy, dull headlights solution in its 3M Car Care the products needed to do the
auto is the auto itself. Oftentimes, the type of vehicle you’re driv- that decrease nighttime visibil- line that allows car owners to job, from sanding discs to pol-
ing goes a long way to determining your insurance premium. In- ity and can contribute to un- quickly and cost-effectively ishing pads to 3M polish. The
sure.com, an online resource providing information to shoppers safe driving conditions on the eliminate this problem. The only tool a consumer needs is
looking for auto, life, home, and health insurance, notes that the road. new 3M(TM) Headlight Lens an electric or cordless drill with
following vehicles proved the most expensive to insure in 2009. In fact, the Motor Vehicle
1. Nissan GT-R: With a sticker price of nearly $80,000, it’s no Lighting Council cites poor
surprise this flashy coup cost more than $2,500 to insure on visibility as a factor in an es-
average. Its top speed of 193 miles per hour (MPH) no doubt timated 2.8 million accidents,
made prospective insurers tremble. 23,000 fatal crashes and
2,300 pedestrian deaths every
2. Dodge Viper SRT-10: Another vehicle with a reputation for
year in the United States.
speed, the Viper SRT-10 cost drivers an average of just under
While plastic headlights
$2,500 to insure. Something to think about when cruising at 200
help reduce vehicle weight
MPH, the vehicle’s top speed.
and withstand impact, oxi-
3. BMW M6: Those considering an M6 probably don’t care about dation and sunlight can dull
the insurance, as the vehicle itself costs more than $100,000 to the surface, turn it yellow or Jeep Cherokee Headlight Before Jeep Cherokee Headlight After
take home. leave it cloudy and scratched.
4. Ford Shelby GT500: Its sticker price of approximately This means the light from the Restoration System includes 1,000 to 3,000 RPMs.
$43,000 makes it more realistic for many of the nation’s driv- headlights is diffused and not everything the consumer The 3M Car Care product
ers, who can expect to pay nearly $2,200 per year to insure this focused correctly on the road- needs to remove the oxidation line and 3M Headlight Lens
muscle car. way, which limits visibility in and restore the headlight lens Restoration System can be
dark and rainy conditions. Not to its clear condition. It is also found at leading automotive
5. Mercedes G-Class: Its curb weight of more than 5,500 lbs. only can the driver of the ve- cost-effective. Compared to aftermarket retailers and on-
might keep you safe in case of collision, but its average insur- hicle not see the roadway, the having the lens commercially line through select distribu-
ance cost of more than $2,000 won’t keep your wallet safe when vehicle also is less visible to repaired for approximately $75 tors.
it comes time to ante up. other cars. or replaced for up to $1,500, For more information on
To learn more about automobile insurance, With the average age of the 3M Headlight Lens Resto- 3M Car Care products, visit
visit www.insure.com. vehicles on U.S. streets today ration System costs less than www.3Mcarcare.com.

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 23


Maybe you already add Ome-
ga-3s and probiotics to your diet,
but what about the food you feed
your four-legged friend?
If you are like a growing
number of pet owners, your dog
or cat consumes many of the
same nutrients you do. You might
even make an occasional trip
to the yoga studio for a “doga”
(that’s dog yoga) session. It’s all
part of what veterinarian Dr. Al
Townshend calls a revolution in
holistic pet health.
“Americans are applying ho-
listic health techniques for mind
and body to their pets,” he says.
“They appreciate that connecting
Total Health—Holistic pet food has become a popular way to help pets
boost energy levels, improve coats and more.
with their pets meaningfully and
thoughtfully each day can easily
be achieved through a holistic
diet. And by following a holistic
feeding philosophy, pet owners
are unlocking a higher level of
health for their dogs and cats.”
The Diet Link
Say your dog is acting a bit
sluggish, for instance, or the fam-
ily cat’s coat has lost its sheen.
Dr. Townshend says you should
carefully consider what is in their
food bowl.
“I can look at a dog that
comes into my office and tell
what he’s been eating by the con-
dition of his skin and coat, energy
level and weight,” he says. “If an
animal transitions to an optimal,
holistic diet, like Holistic Se-
lect®, and comes back to see me
in a few months, he’s like a new
dog.”
So how can you go holistic?
Visit a local pet specialty store or
the Web to find Holistic Select.
It’s geared toward providing ani-
mals with a more complete sys-
tem of health. Holistic Select is
filled with a unique set of what’s
called “Select Actives™,” the
same functional ingredients that
many pet owners seek to add to
their own diets. They include pro-
biotics, natural enzymes, botani-
cals and Omega-3s and -6s.
“These ingredients have the
power to positively impact a
dog’s or cat’s health not just to-
day but for the long term,” notes
Dr. Townshend. “They work to-
gether to help with digestion and
nutrient absorption, while also
fighting disease and stress—and
even improving the look and feel
of a pet’s coat.”
To learn more about holistic
pet food and health, visit www.
holisticselect.com or call (800)
225-0904.

Man’s Best Friend and Heartworms to go outside at some point either

By Dr. Kendra Findley
This particular parasite is prob-
ably the least understood among
pet owners and the most impor-
tant in my professional opinion.
Heartworms are literally worms
that live in the heart of both dogs
and cats when left untreated. Pet
owners want to know if continuous
prevention is necessary because in
some cases it can be cost prohibi-
tive. The answer is ABSOLUTE-
LY. Dogs should be on heartworm
prevention year round particularly
in the Lowcountry due to our mild
winters and the increased inci-
dence of heartworm disease in this
area. The American Heartworm
Society has done a study showing
the 100+ cases of heart-
worm disease occur per
clinic in the Lowcountry.
This disease causes seri-
ous and often times irre-
versible damage to a dog’s
heart and the treatment can
be both expensive (averag-
ing around $1000) and life
threatening.
Heartworms are spread
from one infected dog to
another via a mosquito bite
and we have no shortage of mos-
quitoes in the Lowcountry. Now
you’re probably asking yourself
this question….”if my pet is in-
doors do I need to keep them on
heartworm prevention?” Again my
answer is ABSOLUTELY. Indoor
pets are just as at risk because they
are never 100% indoor, they have
to potty, take a walk or spend the
afternoon at one of our gorgeous
dog parks. Even if your pet only
goes out into your fenced yard you
have to consider that the neighbors
dog may be infected and
the mosquito who bit him
doesn’t respect the pres-
ence of your fence. So
what are your options?
Advantage Multi: Ad-
vantage Multi: Doesn’t
kill ticks but works on
fleas as well as heart-
worms. By paying a little
more for Advantage Multi
you can protect your pet
from fleas AND heart-
worms with a single product ap-
plied topically once a month to the
back of the neck.
Revolution: This product kills
fleas, heartworms, treats scabies (a
type of mange) and prevents ear
mites. This is my favorite product
for use on cats because of the add-
ed benefit of preventing ear mites.
Heartgard/Sentinel/Intercep-
tor/Triheart/Iverhart: Each of
these products is a heartworm and
intestinal parasite preventive ad-
ministered orally once a month.
Sentinel contains Lufeneron, a flea
sterilizing agent, and kills whip-
worms. Interceptor also adds whip-
worms to its killing repertoire.
Triheart and Iverhart are recently
introduced generics that are just as
effective as the Heartgard but can
cost significantly less.

History suggests the first April Fool’s Day

dates back to late 16th century France with the
introduction of the Gregorian Calendar. Prior to
1582, the year the Gregorian Calendar was in-
troduced, New Year’s Day was celebrated for a
period of 8 days, beginning on March 25 and culminating on the first day
of April. However, with the introduction of the new calendar, New Year’s
Day was moved to January 1. Back in the 1580’s news traveled slowly,
and many did not receive news of the new calendar for several years, and
then refused to acknowledge the new calendar. They thus became known
as “fools,” and, at least some historians believe, April Fool’s Day was born.

EveryTuesday is
Senior Savings
Day!
• Friendly Atmosphere
• Personalized Service
• Gold Crown
Memberships Available

Convenient
Less stress on you
& your pet

1219 N. Main Street • Summerville, SC

(In the Main Market Center between Lowes and Belk)
Mon-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 12 Noon - 5pm

Dr. Kendra Findley

843-743-9209 (mobile/ofc) • www.docatyourdoorsc.com
851-2378
24 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc
 “BROADWAY LIGHTS” AND AMISH
SIGHTS – APRIL 25 – MAY 2, 2010
– 8 days/7 nights lodging. 12
Meals. Three nights lodging in
New York City, driving tour of
New York City with guide, Spir-
it of New York Dinner Cruise,
visit Statue of Liberty and Ellis
Island, tickets to two Broadway
Shows (TBA), two dinners in New York City, free
time for shopping, tour of West Point US Military
Academy and Museum, two nights in Lancaster,
PA, Amish countryside and farmland driving tour
with guide, tickets to the Dutch Apple Dinner The-
ater, dinner at Good-n-Plenty Restaurant, tickets
to Sight and Sound Theater to see “Joseph”, one
night in Chester, VA with tickets to the Swift Creek
Mill Dinner Theater to see “A Grand Night for
Singing”. $1625.00 PP/MD $1707.00 PP/NMD
TULIP TIME – NIAGARA
FALLS, ONTARIO & OT-
TAWA – MAY 12 – 19,
2010 – 8 days/7 nights.
8 Meals. Visit Morgan-
town, WV; New River
Gorge Visitor Center, 2
nights lodging in Niagara Falls, Ontario, hotel lo-
cated near the Falls, driving tour to include Niag-
ara Botanical Gardens, the Floral Clock, Niagara
on the Lake and a visit to the Farmer’s Market.
Dinner at the Minolta Tower overlooking the Falls.
Two nights lodging in Ottawa, Ontario, riding tour
to include Rideau Canal and the Tulip Gardens,
plus a boat tour of the 1,000 Islands Region.
$985.00 PP/MD $1032.00 PP/NMD CALL NOW TO
SIGN UP – SPACE IS LIMITED!!
BELTERRA CASINO HOTEL
– CINCINNATI – MADISON
– INDIANAPOLIS – ME-
TROPOLIS – CROSSVILLE
– JUNE 5 – 12, 2010
– 8 days/7 nights lodg-
ing – 14 Meals. Three
nights at the Belterra Casino Hotel in Florence,
IN, driving tour of Cincinnati, OH with a step-on
guide, tickets to the “Creation Museum”, driving
tour of Madison, IN with a step-on guide and ad-
mission to two house museums, driving tour of
Indianapolis, IN, tour of the Indy Racetrack and
Museum, admission to the Indiana State Muse-
um, dinner and show at the Boggstown Cabaret,
one night at Harrah’s Metropolis Casino Hotel
with dinner and breakfast, dinner at Cumberland
Mountain State Park Restaurant, tickets to the
Cumberland County Playhouse to see “Tinyard”.
$949.00 PP/MD $994.00 PP/NMD
MYSTERY TRIP # 71 – JUNE 22 – 29,
2010 – 8 days/7 nights lodging. 14
Meals. Can’t tell you where we are
going or what we are going to do –
but you will have lots of fun and see
lots of beautiful scenery!! $1123.00
PP/MD $1181.00 PP/NMD
ATLANTIC PROV-
INCES & QUEBEC
– JULY 11 – 29,
2010 – 19 days/18
nights lodging. 22
Meals. Tours of or
visits to Mystic, CT;
Bangor, ME; St.
John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Peg-
gy’s Cove, NS; Cape Breton Island; St. John’s,
Newfoundland; Gros Morne National Park; Cow-
head, NF; L’Anse aux Meadows, NF; Lance au
Clair & Red Bay, Labrador; Corner Brook, NF;
Prince Edward Island – Charlottetown; Moncton,
New Brunswick; Magnetic Hill; Edmundston, New
Brunswick and Quebec City, Quebec. We will
also take the following ferries: North Sydney, NS
to Argentia, NF; St. Barbe, NF to Blanc-Sablon,
Labrador; Port aux Basques, NF to North Sydney,
NS; and Caribou to Prince Edward Island. This
is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and not to be missed!!
$3041.00 PP/MD $3195.00 PP/NMD
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
AND CANADA’S NATURAL
TREASURES – AUGUST
4 – 24, 2010 – 21
days/20 nights lodging.
16 Meals. Tours of or
visits to Independence, MO; Omaha, NE Boys
Town; Cheyenne, WY Terry Bison Ranch; Billings,
MT; Spokane, WA; Seattle, WA; Vancouver, BC;
Butchart Gardens, Victoria; Stanley park, Vancou-
ver; Queen Elizabeth Park & Gardens; Columbia
Icefields and Columbia Glacier tour by Snow Bus
mobile; Banff National Park; Regina, Sask; The
Mall of the Americas; Minneapolis/St. Paul Tour;
St. Paul Cathedral; Minnehaha Falls; Sculpture
Gardens; Bonanzaville Tour in Fargo, ND, plus
more. $3062.00 PP/MD $3212.00 PP/NMD
MACKINAC ISLAND’S
GRAND HOTEL – AGAWA
CANYON FALL TRAIN
TOUR – PICTURED
ROCKS NATIONAL LAKE-
SHORE & INDIANA’S
AMISH COUNTRY – AU-
GUST 30 – SEPTEMBER 10, 2010 – 12 days/11
nights lodging. 21 Meals. Tours of or visits to
Lexington, KY; Flint, MI – Crossroads Village &
Huckleberry Railroad and sightseeing cruise on
the Genesee Belle; Star-Line Ferry to Mackinac
Island, carriage tour of Mackinac Island, one night
at The Grand Hotel with Grand Luncheon Buf-
fet, dinner and breakfast, evening entertainment;
luncheon cruise on St. Mary’s River through the
famous Soo Locks; free time in Sault Ste Marie,
Ontario; full day Agawa Canyon Fall Colour Train
Tour; visit the Upper Peninsula Area of Michigan
to include Munising, Pictured Rocks National
Lakeshore Boat Tour; S.S. Badger Ferry from
Manitowoc, WI across Lake Michigan to Luding-
ton, MI; admission to Historic White Pine Village
with lunch; visit Nappanee, IN; guided Shingle
Shoppes Backroads Tour of Amish Countryside;
Haystack Lunch in an Amish home; tour of Amish
Acres; Thresher’s Dinner at Amish Acres; tickets
to Broadway Musical at the Round Barn The-
ater, plus overnight at the Cumberland Inn Hotel.
$1852.00 PP/MD $1944.00 PP/NMD
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE:
www.topofthelinetours.com

MAY 22 DIXIE STAMPEDE & MYRTLE BEACH AQUARIUM NOV 30 – DEC 5 CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK CITY
JUNE 19 FT. MILL – NARROWAY – “THE 4TH CROSS” DECEMBER 7 – 9 CALLAWAY GARDENS & LAKE LANIER CHRISTMAS
JULY 6 – 10 NC COASTAL ADVENTURE DECEMBER 12 – 14 CHRISTMAS AT “THE HOMESTEAD”
AUGUST 6 – 8 LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC DECEMBER 13 – 15 CHATTANOOGA CHOO CHOO CHRISTMAS
SEPT 14 – 17 FALL IN THE SMOKIES-MAGGIE VALLEY & PIGEON FORGE DECEMBER 17 CAROLINA OPRY CHRISTMAS SHOW
SEPT 21 – 29 FALL IN THE OZARKS-EUREKA SPRINGS & BRANSON DECEMBER 18 – 19 JACKSONVILLE, FL & SAVANNAH THEATER
OCTOBER 2 – 10 CAPE COD & MARTHA’S VINEYARD DECEMBER 27 – 28 CHRISTMAS @ BILTMORE ESTATES
OCTOBER 15 – 17 CHATTANOOGA RIVER BOAT & TN VALLEY R/R DEC. 30 – JAN. 2, 2011 NEW YEARS @ TBA
OCTOBER 16 – 22 ATLANTIC CITY/CAPE MAY/PHILADELPHIA JAN. 14 – 29, 2011 CELEBRITY CONSTELLATION EXOTIC SOUTHERN
OCTOBER 30 FT. MILL – NARROWAY – “BILLY LOVES BOBBY SUE” CARIB BEAN CRUISE – Aruba & Curacao

NOVEMBER 18 – 22 AN AMISH CHRISTMAS-LANCASTER, PA • CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE: www.topofthelinetours.com

NOVEMBER 27 FT. MILL – NARROWAY – “THE REAL CHRISTMAS STORY”

Call our office for detailed brochures on all of

the above trips or for other available trips.
Save money and join
Top of The Line Tours Travel Club
Give the gift of travel • Gift Certificates
are available! It makes a perfect birthday,
anniversary or holiday gift!

1908-G Savannah Plaza • Charleston, SC • 843-766-0747 • 1-800-845-7659

www.lowcountrysun.sc • APRIL, 2010 25

By Torrey Monroe
For years, Woodlands Inn in
Summerville has been renowned
for its exemplary service, stel-
lar cuisine and exceptional ac-
commodations. With numer-
ous accolades, it has cemented
its reputation worldwide as an
award-winning hotel and as the
highest rated restaurant in the
Carolinas. Now, a new general
manager is reaching out to the
Lowcountry community to expe-
rience this backyard gem through
a new menu and pricing, and a
series of more relaxed special
events.
“We are making Woodlands
more approachable for local resi-
dents,” said General Manager
Casey Lavin. “While we continue
to deliver excellent service and
fantastic food, the environment is
not as formal. We want to engage
our neighbors.”
Lavin has already established
Woodland’s menu reflects a variety
of local farm fresh products.
a Friday Night Jazz program at
Pines Café during April and May.
The Café, located next to the ac-
claimed Dining Room, presents
lighter culinary options and a
more relaxed atmosphere. The
menu in the Dining Room is also
being freshened with more indi-
New Woodlands General Manager has Fresh Outlook
The Woodland’s Inn combines the history, charm and grandeur of a Charleston
Plantation Estate, surrounded by magnolias and moss-draped oak trees, with
every modern amenity and comfort of a world class hotel.
vidual options.
“People in the Lowcountry
are rightly very proud of Wood-
lands and its awards,” explained
Lavin. “However, we have of-
ten been considered as a special
occasion location. We want to
change that perception. As well
as hosting weddings and an-
niversary dinners, we want to
hold companies’ regular business
lunches, serve as the location for
school events or provide a gather-
ing place for friends after work.
We just attended the Flowertown
Festival and the response from
residents to our new ideas was
amazing.”
The 19-room property is lo-
cated on 42 acres less than two
miles from the center of the Sum-
merville. Originally built as a
private residence in 1906, it was
converted into Woodlands Inn in
1995 and quickly became estab-
lished as a Lowcountry jewel.
“We are centrally located
to most places in the tri-county
area,” said Lavin. “Summerville
residents often drive to down-
town Charleston for dinner, and
we think people will come in the
opposite direction. And, should
someone want to stay over after
a wine dinner or special event, we
offer extremely competitive room
rates.”
One of Lavin’s first initia-
tives was to create outdoors
events on Woodlands’ grounds.
The Inn’s new Farm-to-Table
dinner series begins on April 14,
at which chefs will create a meal
using farm-fresh goods from lo-
cal producers. The concept is for
diners to discover the variety of
vegetables, fruits, and meats pro-
cured by local farmers. The first
event is scheduled for April 14,
with two more following on May
12 and June 9.
Woodlands is also offering
a Mother’s Day Brunch on May
9, with moms receiving a 20%
discount. New for Father’s Day guests with a great opportunity to
weekend, the Inn will feature two sample and learn. All events be-
special events: a Saturday eve- gin with a one-hour tasting recep-
ning barbeque on June 18, with tion. Guests are served at pouring
cigars and bourbon. On June 19, stations located on the main floor
dads can enjoy a different type of in the century-old mansion, fol-
Sunday brunch, which includes lowed by a four-course pairing
oyster shucking and pony beers dinner in the Dining Room.
on the patio. Woodlands Inn is owned by
Also new are Memorial Day renowned entrepreneur and phi-
Weekend activities to honor the lanthropist Sheila C. Johnson.
area’s Armed Forces. In addition She operates Woodlands through
to a Sunday buffet brunch with her company, Salamander Hos-
Woodland’s Pine’s Cafe reflects the care taken in creating rooms with a
relaxed and comfortable ambiance.
live music on May 29, active mil- pitality, which also manages In-
itary members will receive a 50% nisbrook Resort near Tampa/St.
discount. On Monday, May 30, Petersburg, FL, and the under-
Woodlands will host a commu- construction Salamander Resort
nity picnic for service members & Spa in Middleburg, VA.
and their families.
Woodlands continues to hold Woodlands Inn
its highly successful Wines of 125 Parsons Rd.
the World dinner series on the Summerville, SC 29483
third Wednesday of every month. www.woodlandsinn.com
Wines from all over the globe are 843-575-2600 or 800-774-9999
served at each tasting, providing

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26 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc

 Come on up and sit a spell, have a lemonade and watch the world go by.
The American front porch
nearly disappeared during the
second half of the 20th Century,
except for a blip on the screen
during the ‘70s and ‘80s when
some builders attached pretend
porches to the facades of faux-
Vicorians.
They looked good on paper,
but, in real life, you couldn’t cram
a rocking chair into them with a
crowbar.
Now, front porches seem to
be enjoying a retro revival, along
with comfort foods and Radio
Flyer wagons.
Not just ornamental, pretend
porches, but deep, roomy porches
that invite passers by to come on
up, put their feet up and have a
glass of lemonade
Front porches and their back-
yard cousins are nothing new, of
course. The word “porch” derives
from the Latin word “porticus.”
Early American homes, includ-
ing George Washington’s Mount
Vernon and Thomas Jefferson’s
Monticello, had porches.
From the start, they were
decorative (dressing up Plain-
Jane homes or embellishing the
already ornate) and/or functional
(adding square footage and offer-
ing free air conditioning).
“The late 1800s to W.W.I
were the heydays of the front
porch and the front stoop,” says
Emily Talen, professor of urban
and regional planning at the Uni-
versity of Illinois. “Then our cul-
ture became a car culture and the
www.lowcountrysun.sc
garage went up front”
Builders trace the current
front-porch craze back to the
mid-1990s, when Walt Disney
Co. built the much-publicized
Celebratiori community outside
Orlando. It was billed as the flag-
ship for the neo-traditional hous-
ing trend, which pushed garages
to the backs of lots, resurrected
alleys and clustered homes closer
together
As backyards shrunk, front
porches became the new gath-
ering spots. According to the
National Association of Home
Builders (NABB), the number of
porches (front and back) on new
homes grew from 42 percent in
1992 (die first year it tallied them)
to 50 percent in 2000.
Front Porch In Maine
by Janet Kruskamp
“Whether you use the front
porch or not, it makes for a bet-
ter streetscape,” says Talen. “The
garage doors out front say, ‘Cars
live here.’ Front porches say,
‘People live here.”’
Builders say the front-porch
passion crosses demographic
lines.
“Front porches are appeal-
ing to all kinds of buyers - young
families and older couples,” re-
ports Naperville-based builder
John Schillerstrom, who has built
dozens of custom and semi-cus-
tom homes with front porches in
the last few years. “The common
thread—they like to socialize
with their neighbors.”
“The front porch was pleas-
ant, not exciting,” recalls William
Geist in his book,’ “Toward a Safe
& Sane Halloween & Other Tales
of Suburbia” (Random House).
“It was a place to sit. To sit
and talk—something called vis-
iting—about anything that came
up.
s“Sometimes nothing was
said for several minutes, just
sharing the silence, the sound of
the crickets, the lawn sprinkler, or
whatever It was okay to be silent
then, not a failure to communi-
cate that you had to seek profes-
sional help for.”
Then came TV, says Geist
in his 1985 book. Then, central
air. By the 1950s, recalls Geist
sarcastically, “A body’d have to
be a fool to sit out on the front
porch talking with his next-door
neighbor when he could be in his
air-conditioned ‘TV room’ being
talked at by the big stars from
Hollywood and New York.”
The trend started before 9-11,
but now people are staying home
even more. The front porch is a
place they can relax.
Front porches are selling at
all price points, too, from modest
subdivision homes to the over-
$350,000 homes Schillerstrom
builds.
Like the houses they adorn,
their prices run the gamut, he
says, “from a $3,500, simple one
with a concrete floor to a $10,000
to $15,000 one with a beadboard
ceiling and canned lights. The
sky’s the limit.”
Municipal land planners like
front porches “because they help
create safe, feel-good neighbor-
hoods,” says Mark Elliott, presi-
dent of the Elliott Group in Mor-
ton Grove, which builds custom
and semi-custom homes in the
$500,000-and-up market.
“But it’s not just the curb ap-
peal they add,” reports Elliott.
“People are really using them.”
“We’re out there spring, sum-
mer and fall, and eat out there in
the summer,” says Stacey Connor,
of the porch that wraps around her
two-story, four-bedroom home in
HomeTown Aurora, built by Pal-
atine-based Bigelow Homes.
“We sit there and watch the
kids play in the tot lot next door.
The neighbors walk by and say
hi. The porches give the neigh-
borhood a Mayberry, small-town
kind of feeling.”
“Surrounded by wooden rail-
ings, the Connors’ porch is deep
enough to accommodate plenty of
patio furniture,” she says.
“When the kids get older, I’ll
put a porch swing out there, too,”
she says.
“Research showed that peo-
ple yearned for more connected,
social neighborhoods, and front
porches are part of this,” says
Bigelow’s vice president of sales
and marketing, Jamie Bigelow.
Please go to www.janetkrus-
kamp.com to see more of Janet’s
wonderful and whimsicle front
porch paintings.
• APRIL, 2010 27

By Schu
Too few people understand a really
good sandwich.
- James Beard
Each month when I sit down in
front of the computer I imagine myself
constructing a gastronomic masterpiece,
something cutting edge that when read
will inspire folks to consider thinking or
trying something new. Of course I never
really believe that I accomplish that goal
so let’s just have some fun instead.
Suffice it to say I stopped in my
tracks when I came across this quote
by James Beard. Beard was a culinary
maverick and is rightfully credited for
advancing our country’s culinary educa-
tion. He exposed us to cultures and fla-
vors from around the world so that our
collective palates could grow. His influ-
ence can still be felt through the Beard
Foundation…but the sandwich?!
Certainly the sandwich would not
be the first thing that comes to mind
when counting the many contributions of
James Beard. And that is why I am so in-
clined to write to write about the simple
attributes of the lowly sandwich.
Although it is universally believed
that humans have been putting various
objects between 2 slices of bread since
the Middle Ages, the common theory is
that in 1762 John Montagu, the 4th Earl
of Sandwich, is credited with creating
the sandwich; well at least the name. As
the story goes Montagu was quite fond
of gambling and during a somewhat
long streak at the card table he instructed
someone to bring him something to eat
that would not interfere with his card
playing. The kitchen brought him sliced
meat between two pieces of bread. Low
and behold the sandwich was born, or
named.
The rest they say is history as the
sandwich’s popularity has grown to such
massive proportions that it is on almost
every restaurant menu and consumed on
a daily basis around the world. Accord-
ing to www.chacha.com. It’s estimated
28 APRIL, 2010 •
that 11 billion sandwiches are consumed
in the US each year or 30 million per
day!!!
Truly the reason we Americans love
the sandwich is because it’s portable,
a quick meal that fits with our hectic,
non stop culture and lifestyle. Sure the
sandwich is simple – two pieces of bread
stuffed with luncheon meat, maybe some
cheese and condiments; but it is and can
be so much more.
When you have a minute make a list
of all the sandwiches that you know off
the top of your head. Okay I’ll help:
PB & J • Grilled Cheese • BLT
Dagwood • Grinder • Reuben
The Trinity of salads
(egg salad, chicken salad, and tuna salad)
Italian • Muffuleta
Philly Cheesesteak
Panini • Monte Cristo • Cuban
Club • Corned Beef on Rye
Pastrami on Rye
Po’ Boy • Sloppy Joe • French Dip
Tomato (you thought I forgot)
The Pittsburgh • Wrap • Hoagie
Submarine
We could go on forever but that’s
my point! Like our creativity, it’s end-
less!
Try this on for size. I once read that
any jelly goes with any cheese - blue
cheese and apricot, cheddar and apple,
gruyere and blackberry, swiss and rasp-
berry – it all works!
Don’t believe me. Try it! I’ve been
experimenting for 2 years and I have yet
to find a combo that doesn’t work.
Croque Monsieur Ham and
Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients
2 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp flour
1 1/2 cups milk
A pinch each of salt, freshly ground pep-
per, nutmeg, or more to taste
6 ounces Gruyere cheese, grated
(about 1 1/2 cups grated)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (packed)
8 slices of French or Italian loaf bread
12 ounces ham, sliced
Dijon mustard
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Make the béchamel sauce. Melt butter
The Croque Monsier sandwich combines Gruyère cheese with milk
and seasonings to make the filling melt to an even more creamy
consistency
in a small saucepan on medium/low heat
until it just starts to bubble. Add the flour
and cook, stirring until smooth, about 2
minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisk-
ing continuously, cooking until thick.
Remove from heat. Add the salt, pepper,
and nutmeg. Stir in the Parmesan and 1/4
cup of the grated Gruyere. Set aside.
3. Lay out the bread slices on a baking
sheet and toast them in the oven, a few
minutes each side, until lightly toasted.
For extra flavor you can spread some
butter on the bread slices before you
toast them if you want.
4. Lightly brush half of the toasted slices
with mustard. Add the ham slices and
about 1 cup of the remaining Gruyere
cheese. Top with the other toasted bread
slices.
5. Spoon on the béchamel sauce to the
tops of the sandwiches. Sprinkle with the
remaining Gruyere cheese. Place on a
broiling pan. Bake in the oven for 5 min-
utes, then turn on the broiler and broil
for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, until
the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly
browned.
If you top this sandwich with a fried
egg it becomes a Croque Madame.
www.simplyrecipes.com
Now before you go running off to the
kitchen and experimenting with cheese
and jelly humor me by reading one last
story about the sandwich. Back in the
1950’s my dad was a salesman working
the Midwest before the interstate system
had a stranglehold on us all. He would
crisscross Wisconsin, Minnesota and the
Dakotas selling disposable diapers (he
worked in textiles). Anyway, he told me
a story about his favorite lunch time tra-
dition of pulling into a local Wisconsin
cheese shop, picking up a chunk of sharp
cheddar and then stopping for a fresh
loaf of bread and a jar of deli mustard. washer to general manager, from mom
Once he had all his ingredients he
would drive until he found a secluded
area with a big, shady tree. Once settled
under the tree he would relax, construct
and enjoy a simply cheddar and mustard
sandwich.
Kraft introduced Cracker Barrel
brand natural cheese in 1954
and it has become a sandwich
favorite for its taste and creamy
meltability.
Cracker Barrel Cheddar,
Bacon & Pear Sandwich
Ingredients
8 - slices Bacon
8 - slices French bread
1/8 - cup Grey Poupon Savory Honey
Mustard
www.lowcountrysun.sc
4 - slice (1 - ounce each) Cracker Barrel
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1 - medium pear, thinly sliced
Direction
Heat bacon as directed on package.
Spread bread slices with mustard.
Top 1 of the bread slices with cheese,
pears and bacon.
Cover with remaining bread slice.
Recipe courtesy of
www.alanskitchen.com
A lifelong foodie, Schu has
worked in the food and beverage in-
dustry since the age of 15. From dish-
& pop joints to hotels and national
chains, Schu has also written for vari-
ous publications and hosted a weekly
radio show dedicated to food.
Did you know?
April is National
Grilled Cheese Month
April 2 is
National Peanut Butter
and Jelly Day
The 2nd week of April is
Egg Salad Week
Fresh Florida Tomato Month
National Food Month
National Pecan Month
National Soft Pretzel Month
National Soyfoods Month
www.thenibble.com
April showers bring May
flowers and Mayflowers
bring hungry pilgrims
 Is your Hair, Makeup and Clothing Aging You?
If you have had the same
hairstyle and makeup colors for
over thirty years then do yourself
a favor and make a change!
Hair styles
Getting a great hairstylist to
create an up dated hairstyle for
you can take years off your face
and give you a new fresh look.
Find a hairstyle that is attractive
and highlights your best features.
Most women look younger
when their hair doesn’t look like a
teased, sprayed, shellacked mess.
Keep it simple and chic.
Since most women do prefer to
color their hair, it’s convenient
that dyes are safer and easier to
use than they once were. While
dyeing your hair at home is
cheaper, most women opt to go to
a professional colorist, which is
the best way to go.
Many colorist’s will use more
natural products if you request it.
Once you start dyeing your hair it
is preferable to go a few shades
lighter than your natural color.
This makes roots easier to
deal with and generally will look
softer and more flattering to your
face. You should consider high-
lights as these are much more
youthful looking and stylish.
Some tips on hairstyles
Bobs never go out of style,
long bangs disguise a receding
Mature skin care is impor-
tant and we mustn’t neglect it.
To make the most of the skin
is necessary to take care of it
through the different stages in
our lives. Many people don’t
give their skin the attention
and care it deserves. to be taken for granted, espe-
A great percentage devel-
op dermatological problems
such as itching, infections, ec-
zema and allergic reactions.
These skin conditions oc-
cur because mature skin has
less defences, making it more
vulnerable to external aggres-
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To look your best at any age takes a lifelong commitment to skin
and hair care.
hairline, low-lights give bru-
nettes a boost, shoulder length
hair is versatile, wisp bangs offer
a touch of softness, and can hide
frown lines.
Make the most of thinning
hair, pump up the volume!
Makeup Magic
With heavier makeup, the
older you will look. Beware, too
much powder, heavy eyeliner
and super white skin. Your best
sions such as cold, wind, sun-
light. The skin is thinner and
as collagen and elastin pro-
duction diminish, the skin be-
comes dryer and wrinkles are
more pronounced.
Care for mature skin is not
cially if you belong to this age
group and suffer any kind of
dermatological problem.
Agents that influence ma-
ture skin are: soap, water,
cold, excessive heat, dry air,
wind and friction.
Licensed & Insured
bet: bronzed skin, light eyes, and
sheer lips.
The right hair style, and a
light touch with make up can
make mature women appear age-
less.
The following tricks can be
more becoming for today’s ma-
ture woman. Red lips are time-
less, don’t let them clash with
strong eye makeup. Keep the rest
of your makeup light if you opt
for bright lips, lest you appear to
Skin Care Tips
• Use a mild soap with a neu-
tral PH. Normal soaps and
shower gels will strip the skin
of its natural oils.
• Wash with warm water
• If you are having a bath,
make it short and add bath
oils.
• Dry every part of the body
very well.
• Use an humidifier in the bed-
room especially in winter.
look like a clown.
Be really careful with the shim-
mer makeup, as it can act like air-
port runway lights illuminating
every line, wrinkle and pore.
Go to a place where a makeup
artist can help you learn to make
your best features stand out and
can show you how to minimize
your flaws.
Find a good lipstick or lip
color that works well with your
complexion and coloring. Apply Beauty & Fashion
foundation or powder to your lips By Belinda Roberts
before applying your lipstick, as
it will stay in place and last much
longer.
Keep your eye makeup as sim- A nice white crisp blouse with
ple as possible. If you ever have a ruffled vee collar and placket
the opportunity to have a make brings the lines straight down
over, take advantage of it, learn your center, the blouse should nip
what colors look good on you and a bit in your waist, and a slightly
which ones don’t. boxy sophisticated Chanel like
sweater or jacket creates structure
Dress for Success
and balances out the softness of
More women talk about their
midsection, and hiding a bit of a your body. A dark pair of com-
fortable low heels will elongate
belly. Many women tend to have
your legs.
a waist thickening as they grow
This outfit will be flattering
older.
and you will appear to look slim-
Toppers, jackets and lightweight
mer with a modern classic casual
sweaters will camouflage your
look. Add a great necklace and
tummy.
you will look fabulous!
A nice casual dressy look that
is flattering to many. Start with a
Got a style challenge? Let me
dark mid rise pair of denims,or
help you solve it.
dark slacks with no pleats, as
this will update your casual dress
Belinda Roberts
look, and slims your stomach.
gatorbug54@aol.com
because of the heat from ra- products that contain nutrients
diators. to feed, moisturize and rejuve-
nate the skin.
• Avoid clothes with fabrics
that can irritate the skin such • Avoid smoking and alcohol
as wool and polyester. in excess.
• Use moisturizing products • Drink water, take some kind
every day, specially after the of gentle exercise such as
shower. Don’t forget the neck, walking or swimming and eat
hands and feet. Applying a a healthy diet.
moisturizer will help to smooth It is never too late to take care
over the skin and to reduce of the skin, no matter your age
itching.
group.
• Use anti-aging skin care.
• APRIL, 2010 29
CLUES ACROSS
1. Dried corn kernels
6. Interprets writing
11. Boob tube
14. High energy physics
(abbr.)
15. Baby beds
16. Feline mammal
18. 100 = 1 rupee
21. Actress Greta
23. Polio vaccine developer
25. Seldom
26. Kassite King Atanah-
28. Military gestures
29. Biu-Mandara
31. In bed
32. A male swan
35. Not small
36. Previously possessed
37. Restaurant
38. Show the way
40. 1/100 franc
42. 2nd Islamic month
46. Einstein
47. Traditional Hindu music
49. Earth color
50. Type of compass
52. Corn seed spike
53. Rounded
58. Lake in Oklahoma
59. Waterford glass
64. Summed
65. Of the cod genus
CLUES DOWN
1. Reddish browns
2. Atomic number 13
3. Of I
4. Plastic pipe
5. Title of respect
6. Poke fun at
7. Greek goddess of the
dawn
8. Article
9. Atomic #110
10. In a way, oozed
11. Green and darjeeling
12. Yes in Spanish
13. Held over
14. Horsepower
17. Playthings
19. Helps little firms
20. Direct a weapon
21. Australian cockatoo
22. Island off venezuela
24. Take into custody
25. Egyptian sun god
27. Dark brownish black
28. Adventure stories
30. Secure with rope
32. Capital of Australia
33. Frequently
34. Mozambique seaport
37. Gluten free disease
39. 1776 female descendants
40. Packaging container
41. Metric ton
43. A long way
44. Maturation in years
45. Placed on a stand or
shelves 54. Radioactivity unit 60. 36 inches
48. Quantitative fact 55. Centilitre 61. South Dakota Crossword answers
51. __ shucks on page 11
56. Incredibly edible 62. Bahrain dinar
53. Consumed 57. Arrived extinct 63. Chinese distance measure

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30 APRIL, 2010 • www.lowcountrysun.sc
 At twenty years of age, the will reigns; at thirty the wit; at forty the judgment.
- Benjamin Franklin

Generous Lawyer
A local United Way office realized that the organization had never
received a donation from the town’s most successful lawyer. The
person in charge of contributions called him to persuade him to
contribute.
“Our research shows that out of a yearly income of at least
$500,000, you give not a penny to charity. Wouldn’t you like to
give back to the community in some way?”
The lawyer mulled this over for a moment and replied, “First, did
your research also show that my mother is dying after a long ill-
ness, and has medical bills that are several times her annual in-
come?”
Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbled, “Um ... no.”
The lawyer interrupts, “or that my brother, a disabled veteran, is
blind and confined to a wheelchair?”
The stricken United Way rep began to stammer out an apology,
but was interrupted again.
“or that my sister’s husband died in a traffic accident,” the lawyer’s
voice rising in indignation, “leaving her penniless with three chil-
dren?!”
The humiliated United Way rep, completely beaten, said simply, “I
had no idea...”
On a roll, the lawyer cut him off once again, “So if I don’t give any
money to them, why should I give any to you?”
Herman’s Hermits - Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Walker
The Bee Gees - How Can You Mend a Broken Hip
Bobby Darin - Splish, Splash, I Was Havin’ a Flash
Ringo Starr - I Get By With a Little Help from Depends
Roberta Flack - The First Time Ever I Forgot Your Face
Johnny Nash - I Can’t See Clearly Now
Willie Nelson - On the Throne Again
Procol Harem - A Whiter Shade of Hair
Paul Simon - Fifty Ways to Lose Your Liver
Marvin Gaye - I Heard it Through the GrapeNuts
Leo Sayer - You Make Me Feel Like Napping
The Temptations - Papa’s Got a Kidney Stone
Helen Reddy - I am Woman, Hear me Snore
Commodores - Once, Twice, Three Times to the Bathroom
A manager hosts a dinner party for people from his office and he encourages them all
to bring their children. During the sit-down dinner, the manager’s three-year-old girl just
stares at the man sitting across from her. She can hardly eat her food.
The man checks his tie, feels his face for food, pats his hair in place, but nothing stops her
from staring. He tries his best to just ignore her, but finally, it’s too much for him. “Why are
you staring at me?” he asks.
Everyone at the table has noticed her behavior, and they fall silent to hear her response.
The little girl says, “I just want to see how you drink like a fish!”

A 90-year-old man was having his annual checkups. The doc- A WELL PLANNED LIFE?
tor asked him how he was feeling. “I’ve never been better,” the old
man replied.” I’ve got a twenty-year-old bride who’s pregnant & is Two women met for the first time since grad-
about to deliver a child. What is your opinion about that, Doc?” This 1950’s actor starred
uating from high school. One asked the other,
the old man asked. The doctor thought for a moment, then says, in only 3 films, but will “You were always so organized in school, Did
“Well, let me tell you a story. I know a guy who is a hunter. He never always be remembered as you manage to live a well planned life? “
misses a season for hunting. But, one day he’s in a bit of a hurry “Yes,” said her friend. “My first marriage
a symbol of restless youth.
and he accidentally grabs his umbrella instead of his gun “.
The doctor continued, “ So he’s walking in the woods near a His spirit of rebellion and was to a millionaire; my second marriage was
creek, and suddenly he spots a lion in some brush in front of him. yearning for adventure to an actor; my third marriage was to a preach-
He raises up his umbrella, points it at the lion and squeezes the were reflections of his er; and now I’m married to an undertaker.” Her
handle. BAM! The lion drops dead in front of him . “That’s impos- generation. friend asked, “What do those marriages have
sible!” said the old man in disbelief. “Someone else must have Answer on page 11 to do with a well planned life?” “One for the
shot that lion.” Exactly,” said the Doc.
money, two for the show, three to get ready,
and four to go.

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