lakeside February March 2014

LAKESIDE THE GOOD LIFE ON LAKES MARION, MOULTRIE AND WATEREE

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014

Palmetto darling Boykin Spaniels still favorite among hunters

Muddy Mayhem

Pastime still alive and well around lakes

1 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

fyi CLARENDON COUNTY

411 Sunset Drive, Manning * www.clarendoncountygov.org POPULATION: Est. 34,400 * AREA: 696 square miles COUNTY SEAT: Manning PLACES: Alcolu, Jordan, Manning, New Zion, Paxville, Rimini, Silver, Summerton, Turbeville, Wilson.

ELECTED OFFICIALS: State Sen. Kevin L. Johnson Jr.; state Reps. Dr. Robert Ridgeway and Ronnie Sabb; Clarendon County Council Chairman Dwight Stewart Jr.; councilmen Billy Richardson, W.J. Frierson, A.C. English and Benton Blakely; Sheriff Randy Garrett Jr.; Coroner Hayes F. Samuels NOTABLES: Black tennis great Althea Gibson; Miss America 1957 Marian McKnight; Amelia Bedelia author Peggy Parrish; retired State Sen. John C. Land III, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Glenn Murray; Panama Canal engineer David Gaillard.

KERSHAW COUNTY

515 Walnut St., Camden *www.kershaw.sc.gov POPULATION: Est. 61,697 * AREA: 740 square miles COUNTY SEAT: Camden PLACES: Antioch, Bethune, Boykin, Camden, Cassatt, Elgin, Liberty Hill, Lugoff, Westville.

ELECTED OFFICIALS: State Sens. Joel Lourie, Vincent Sheheen and Thomas McElveen; state Reps. Grady Brown, Laurie Slade Funderburk, James H. “Jay” Lucas and Jimmy Bales; County Council Chairman Gene Wise; councilmen Willie L. Mickle, Sammie Tucker Jr., C.R. Miles Jr., Jimmy Jones, Stephen R. Smoak and Tom Gardner; Coroner John B. Fellers III; and Sheriff Jim Matthews.

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NOTABLES: The American League’s first black player, Larry Doby; columnist and Pulitzer Prize winner Kathleen Parker; Broadway performer Samuel E. Wright; singer and songwriter Brook Benton; and professional wrestler “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan.

ORANGEBURG COUNTY

1437 Amelia St., Orangeburg * www.orangeburgcounty.org POPULATION: Est. 92,243 * AREA: 1,128 square miles COUNTY SEAT: Orangeburg PLACES: Bowman, Elloree, Eutawville, Holly Hill, Rowesville, Santee, Springfield, Vance, Woodford.

ELECTED OFFICIALS: State Sen. C. Bradley Hutto; state Reps.

Gilda Cobb-Hunter, Russell Ott and Jerry Govan Jr.; County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright Sr.; Councilwoman Janie Cooper-Smith; councilmen Clyde B. Livingston, Heyward Livingston, Willie B. Owens, Johnny Ravenell and Harry F. Wimberly; Coroner Samuetta B. Marshall; Sheriff Leroy Ravenell.

NOTABLES: St. Louis Rams player Alex Barron; Washington Post columnist Eugene Robinson; Indianapolis Colts player Tim Jennings; Tennessee Sen. Bob Rocker; World Series champion Herm Winningham; Hollywood actress Shawnee Smith; author Stephen Euin Cobb.

SUMTER COUNTY

13 E. Canal St., Sumter, third floor * sumtercountysc.org POPULATION: Est. 105,517 * AREA: 682 square miles COUNTY SEAT: Sumter PLACES: Horatio, Mayesville, Pinewood, Rembert, Shiloh, South Sumter, Stateburg, Wedgefield, Dalzell.

ELECTED OFFICIALS: U.S. Reps. James Clyburn and Mick Mulvaney; state Sens. Thomas McElveen, and Kevin L. Johnson Jr.; state Reps. Grady Brown, Phillip Lowe, Joe Neal, J. David Weeks and Murrell Smith; Council Chairman Larry Blanding; Council Vice-chairman Eugene Baten; Councilwomen Vivian Fleming-McGhaney and Naomi D. Sanders; Councilmen Artie Baker, James R. Byrd Jr. and Charles T. Edens; Coroner Harvin Bullock; Sheriff Anthony Dennis.

NOTABLES: Original Drifters member Bill Pinkney; educator and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune; U.S. First Lady (1839-41) Angelica Singleton Van Buren; Gov. Richard Irvine Manning III (1914-18); and Miss USA and Miss Universe 1980 Shawn Weatherly; former New York Yankees second baseman Bobby Richardson; former Superbowl winner Freddie Solomon.

Contents

16

20 28 10

LANDMARKS & LANDSCAPES MUD SLINGERS

Mudding still a cherished pastime around lakes

4 10

in Camden

14

HOUND OF THE HUNTSMAN 16 Boykin spaniels remain choice waterfowling dog

LANDMARK LANDING only part of Senator’s legacy

CONTRIBUTERS Jade Reynolds jade@theitem.com Raytevia Evans revans@theitem.com

22

DAYVENTURE:

28

ON THE LAKE

36

WHAT IS AN INVASIVE

38

WEDDED BLISS

42

LETTER TO THE BRIDE

44

for Pork Fest

Indian Mound

GETTIN’ MULTI-CULTURAL

EDITOR Rob Cottingham rcottingham@theitem.com

TAKE A TRIP TO ELLOREE

20

Wildflower? and Nature

COLUMNISTS Deanna Anderson Earle Woodward Jolie Brown Judge Tindal Marie Mulholland PUBLICATION DESIGNERS Cary Johnson Howard cjohnson@theitem.com

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Gail Mathis Waverly Williams Mark Pekuri Paige Macloskie Karen Cave

LAKESIDE THE GOOD LIFE ON LAKES

MARION, MOULTRIE AND

Manon Zamora Barwick mbarwick@theitem.com PHOTOGRAPHY Matt Walsh matt@theitem.com

Palmetto darling Boykin Spaniels still favorite among hunters

For article ideas contact Rob Cottingham at 803-774-1225

WATEREE

FEBRUARY - MARCH

Bristow Marchant bmarchant@theitem.com

To advertise in LAKESIDE contact Gail Mathis at 803-464-1157 or contact your sales representative

2014

ON THE COVER Photo by Matt Walsh

A Kim Parkman-trained awardwinning Boykin Spaniel, Nama Karo.

from the lake Good to see you again, readers.

It seems winter has decided to stick around for now, and as temperatures linger in the more frigid digits, the LakeSide family has put together yet another interesting collection of pieces for you to enjoy while you wait on things to heat up.

In addition to the names and faces you’ve come to recognize, such as Jade Anderson (now Reynolds), Earle Woodward, Deanna Anderson and Jolie Brown, you’ll see we’ve added a few writers for this edition, including staff writers Bristow Marchant and Raytevia Evans. And don’t forget photographer Matt Walsh, who continues to capture the breathtaking imagery the lakes and surrounding forests have to offer. And if any credit for the beauty of this publication is due, graphic designers – and often unsung heroes – Cary J. Howard and Manon Zamora-Barwick deserve more than their share of applause.

Our cover story takes a look at our state’s most beloved canine, the Boykin spaniel (page 16). Jade talks to breeders about how this gorgeous breed became a staple for the outdoor sportsman and continues to win the hearts of all who come to know them.

There’s also a feature on one of the South’s favorite pastimes: Mudding (page 10). Three local teenagers take us out to the thick swamps and muddy fields that comprise their outdoor playground and share their opinions as to why mudding remains such a popular activity.

A feature returning to LakeSide is the Dayventure (page 28), which is a quick look into the many great destinations of our sixcounty coverage area that can provide for an amazing one-day trip. For this edition, Raytevia took a trip out to the scenic Indian Mound reserve in Clarendon County.

In a tribute to a local icon, Bristow puts the spotlight on John C. Land III Landing (page 20) and the man for whom it was named.

Several local figures also chime in to express their gratitude for and the magnitude of the hard work done by one of the state’s greatest senators.

As you can see, this issue is packed to the gills, filled to the brim with outdoor awesomeness, and we have much, much more in store. We hope to make each issue better than the last and will strive to achieve that goal.

ROB COTTINGHAM

EDITOR OF LAKESIDE MAGAZINE

2010 & 2011 2012 Best Award Speciality Winning Publication Magazine

Muddy Mayhem Pastime still alive and well around lakes

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2014 | LAKESIDE

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Landmarks & Landscapes BERKELEY • CLARENDON KERSHAW ORANGEBURG AND SUMTER

Swan Lake-Iris Gardens

Sumter County Museum

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The Santee Cooper lakes and their counties provide numerous recreational opportunities for those who love the outdoors in small or large doses. In Williamsburg and Clarendon counties, the Black and Santee rivers offer similar outdoor adventures. For those people looking to pursue more in these areas than government meetings and cotillions each individual town cherishes, this compiled list should help explorers see what else is going on.

The 30th Annual Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic will be held March 28-30 at the State Fairgrounds, 1200 Rosewood Drive, Columbia. Hours are March 28, noon to 8 p.m.; March 29, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and March 30, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Three hundred exhibitors stocked with the latest hunting, fishing and outdoor sports equipment will be on hand.

Troy Landry from “Swamp People” will sign autographs in the Nutt Cattle Arena on March 29, 1 to 5 p.m., and March 30, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Some of the highlights of the Classic are: Lake Marion Archery Club 3D archery shoot in the Hampton building; the American Fly Fishing Schools instruction and seminars for fresh and saltwater casting and fishing; Kids Fly Casting Competition; Archery in the Schools Program 2014 State Tournament; a 5,500-gallon aquarium stocked with largemouth and striped bass with fishing seminars and casting demonstrations

by Keith Johnson; Bwana Jim sharing his knowledge of reptiles, armadillos, wallabies, exotic birds and more; Daisy Outdoor Products’ inflatable BB Gun Range; National Wild Turkey Federation instructors teaching gun-safety rules and marksmanship skills to youth; Joey Mines from “Outdoor With Joey Mines;” and Retriever’s World’s seminars on basic obedience, teaching hand signals and training a top-notch hunting dog as well as actual Hunting Retriever Champions and expert Roy Coffey.

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources will team up with a host of partners to put on the S.C. Youth Bass Fishing Championship for anglers from The Bass Federation Junior

and Student Angler Federation Clubs as well as the B.A.S.S. Junior Bassmasters Clubs with a tournament on Lake Murray on March 29.

Tickets for the Classic are: $8 adults; $7 seniors 62 and over; and 10 years old and under free. Parking is free. For additional information, call SCDNR at (803) 734-4008 or visit www.psclassic.com to download a brochure.

SUMTER COUNTY The Sumter County Museum and Historical and Genealogical Research Center and Backcountry Homestead, located at 122 N. Washington St., sits in a southern mansion built in 1916. The museum is popular for its living history demonstrations and its Backcountry festivals, which appear each fall and spring. For more information, call (803) 775-0908 or visit www.sumtercountymuseum. org.

Swan Lake-Iris Gardens, one of the premier swan observatories in the world, is located on West Liberty Street in Sumter. Its renown is due in part to its status as the only public park in the United States serving as home to all eight species of swans, including black necks, royal white mutes, coscorobas, whoopers, black Australians, whistlers, bewicks and trumpeters. The park began in 1927 as a private fishing lake for wealthy businessman Hamilton Carr Bland, who began landscaping his garden with Japanese Iris flowers. The park has an open-air Garden Street picnic shelter, the covered Heath Pavilion that seats 200 comfortably and the enclosed Visitor’s Center with conference/ reception space for 125 people. Tables are located throughout the grounds, and a large playground features an antique fire engine perfect for climbing. The Bland Gardens feature a boardwalk, on which visitors may meander through a cypress swamp, and a gazebo popular for spring weddings. Call (803) 778-5434 for more information about reservations for any of the park’s facilities or email tourism@sumter-sc.com.

Sumter Little Theatre will present “The Old Settler” Feb. 6-9 at SLT, 14 Mood Ave. “The Old Settler, set in Harlem in the 1930s, is a story of sisters whose lives are changed by the arrival of a new man. The idea of being an “old settler” is intolerable to Elizabeth, for good reason . . . and she has to find out if this is really her last chance. For more information, visit www.sumterlittletheatre.org.

Comedian James Gregory will perform Friday, Feb. 14, from 8 to 10 p.m., at Sumter Opera House, 21 N. Main St. For information and tickets, call (803) 436-2500 or visit www. funniestman.com.

The Bellamy Brothers, with guest RoadTripp, will perform Saturday, Feb. 15, at Sumter Opera House, 21 N. Main St. General admission tickets are $20, and VIP seats are $100. Tickets are on sale at the Opera House Box Office, at www.roadtripp.com/tix or by calling Carl McIntosh at (803) 468-6177.

Enjoy SumterFest, an arts and crafts festival at Dillon Park, from 5 to 10 p.m. March 14. Featured will be artists and craftsmen, business vendors, music, contests, karaoke, rides, dance exhibitions, “Sumter Idol,” games and food. For more information, visit SumterFest.com or call (803) 795-9755.

Sumter-Shaw Community Concert Association will present Hal Linden in concert from 7 to 9 p.m. April 11 at Patriot Hall. Backed by a seven-piece band, Linden will perform some of America’s greatest songs and Broadway hits. Linden is best known for his hit TV series “Barney Miller” and has appeared in many Broadway and Off Broadway productions. In 1971, he won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his role in “The Rothschilds.” Tickets are $25.

Contact Sumter-Shaw Community Concert Association, 32 E. Calhoun St., or call (803) 499-4032. For additional information, visit www.sscca.info.

The Sumter Enduro Riders Motorcycle Association will hold its 45th Annual Sumter Enduro Feb. 1-2 at the SERMA Grounds.

Riders will meet at 8:15 a.m. with key time at 9 a.m. AMA membership is required for all participants including Junior riders (available at registration). Entry fee is $60. No refunds.

Sign up online at www.sermaclub.com or at the event. AMA membership is required for all participants, including Junior riders (available at registration).

Do you make a mean chili? Enter the 5th Annual YPS Chili Cook Off & Beer Tasting on Feb. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. in downtown Sumter.

Enjoy some great chili and sample a wide variety of microbrew beers at the same time.

For more information on tickets or how to enter your dish visit the Young Professionals of Sumter Facebook Event Page at on.fb. me/1dfhlrw or email suziekearney@yahoo. com.

CLARENDON COUNTY The Manning Commercial Historic District, which features more than 40 businesses within a nine-block radius in downtown Manning, was put on the National Register of Historic Places in May 2010. The district features gift shops, a museum, the Clarendon County Courthouse and Manning City Hall, photography studios, the Clarendon County Archives and Historical Center and several department stores.

Santee National Wildlife Refuge, located in North Santee and Summerton, was first opened in 1941. Of its 13,000 acres, only 4,400 are owned by the refuge, with the remaining acreage managed through a lease agreement with the South Carolina Public Service Authority, also known as Santee Cooper. The refuge manages 10 conservation easements on private lands, totaling 458 acres in Bamberg, Barnwell, Clarendon and Orangeburg counties. The refuge serves as a major wintering area for ducks and geese and a stopover area for neo-tropical migratory birds, raptors, shore birds and wading birds.

Endangered and threatened species at the refuge include the American alligator and the wood stork. The public may use the Visitor’s Center, which features exhibits, walking trails, an auto-tour route, wildlife observation and hunting and fishing opportunities. The Visitor’s Center is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. The refuge trails and grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through March 31; and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., April 1 to Aug. 31. For more information, call (803) 478-2217, or email santee@fws.gov.

The Bellamy Brothers

Santee National Wildlife Refuge

The Clarendon County Museum and History Center, operated at 102 S. Brooks St. by the county’s historical society, is open 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, excluding holidays. The museum features permanent exhibits dedicated to war memorabilia and the county’s agricultural history as well as an early 20th century kitchen furnished with an antique wood

Taw Caw Park 2014 | LAKESIDE FEBRUARY - MARCH

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stove, cast-iron water pots and old-fashioned china and cutlery.

Taw Caw Park, located off Wash Davis Road in Summerton, has an extensive set of boardwalks around Taw Caw Creek, which empties into Lake Marion. A popular spot for fishing, the area has a playground, picnic shelters, volleyball courts and is free and open to the public during daylight hours. A $5 rental fee is required for the picnic shelter.

For more information, call (803) 473-3543.

The Plantation Singers will perform at Weldon Auditorium on Feb. 8. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Weldon Auditorium at (803) 433-7469.

Dennis Swanberg and The Kingdom Heirs will perform on Feb. 15 at Weldon Auditorium.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Weldon Auditorium at (803) 4337469.

The Francis Marion Living History Lantern Walk will be held at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 21, at Camp Bob Cooper, as part of Francis Marion Living History Days.

The Clarendon Christian Music Festival will be held Saturday, March 15, at Weldon Auditorium. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Weldon Auditorium at (803) 433-7469.

The Puddin’ Swamp Singers will perform at 7:30 p.m. March 29, at Weldon Auditorium.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Weldon Auditorium at (803) 4337469.

BERKELEY COUNTY The legendary Johnny Mathis will share his hits on Jan. 25 at North Charleston Coliseum Performing Arts Center. His hits include “Chances Are,” “Wonderful, Wonderful,” “The Twelfth of Never,” “It’s Not for Me to Say,” “Misty” and many others.

Arlo Guthrie comes to North Charleston Coliseum Performing Arts Center on Feb. 14.

Guthrie was born with a guitar in one hand and a harmonica in the other. He is the eldest son of America’s most beloved singer/writer/ philosopher Woody Guthrie and Marjorie Mazia Guthrie, a professional dancer. Arlo is joined by his son, Abe Guthrie (keyboards and vocals), Krishna Guthrie (Abe’s son on guitar and vocals) and old friend Terry A La Berry (drums and vocals).

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Tickets for events at the North Charleston Coliseum & Performing Arts Center can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000.

The Berkeley County Blueways consist of 175 miles of waterway comprising of 23 paddling trails in Lake Moultrie, lower Lake Marion, the Santee River and Francis Marion National Forest. Operated primarily by the Berkeley Soil and Water Conservation District, with funds from Berkeley County government and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the blueways are always viewed as an open invitation for recreational paddlers to experience and enjoy this region’s beautiful lakes, rivers, streams and wildlife. For more information, visit www.berkeleyblueways. com, email berkconsdist@homexpressway. net, or call (843) 719-4146.

Francis Marion National Forest was practically destroyed in 1989 by Hurricane Hugo, but the young growth that survived on its 252,368 acres situated in Charleston and Berkeley counties has emerged to make it a popular tourist attraction. The forest itself contains the towns of Awendaw, Huger, Jamestown and McClellanville, and its headquarters are in Columbia, as are those of Sumter National Forest. Recreational opportunities include campsites, rifle ranges, boat ramps, hiking and biking trails and the famous Palmetto Trail.

The Cypress Gardens, located on S.C. 52, eight miles east of Moncks Corner, provides a 250-acre park that features a 24,000-gallon freshwater aquarium and flat-bottom boats, which hold up to six people, that meander through a designated path in the swamp. As long as they have at least one adult present, groups can take the tours to see alligators and other wildlife.

The Winter Fossil Show, one of Cypress Gardens’ most popular events, will be held Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Cypress Gardens, 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner. Bring your fossils with you for help in identification. Door prizes will be awarded hourly beginning at 10 a.m., and there will be a fossil dig for kids. The Friends of Cypress Gardens will be selling food. Admission to the show is free with regular paid admission to the Gardens. For information, call (843) 553-0515.

Mepkin Abbey, a community of Roman

Catholic monks, was built in 1959 on the Cooper River, S.C. 402, north of Charleston, where historic Mepkin Plantation once stood.

Guided tours of the church are provided at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday through Saturday; and 3 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. The abbey is closed to visitors on Mondays. Groups of 10 or more visitors are asked to make reservations by calling (843) 761-8509.

Fruitmania Garden School, an all-day fruit growers school for home gardeners, will be held Feb. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Cypress Gardens, 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner. Registration is 8 to 9 a.m. There will be lectures from fruit experts, vendors selling plants, answers to your questions and much more. Topics of the lectures include: Growing Citrus in the Lowcountry; Peaches, Blueberries and Brambles; Annual Fruits; Honey Bees and their Role in Fruit; and Oddball Fruits. There will be a People’s Choice Fruit Jam/Jelly Contest. Cost is $25. All lectures included.

For information, call (843) 553-0515.

The Shuckin’ in the Park oyster roast takes place from 1 to 6 p.m. on March 8 at Old Santee Canal Park in Moncks Corner.

While sampling the roasted shellfish, enjoy live entertainment from Custom 4+2, whose blend of beach music, oldies and popular music has made them a local favorite. The oyster roast will also feature activities for children, including a jump castle. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Old Santee Canal Park nestled within the backwaters of Biggin Creek. Food tickets can be purchased inside the gate.

Small coolers are allowed, but no pets or golf carts. Tickets are not redeemable for food.

Old Santee Canal Park is located at 900 Stony Landing Drive, Moncks Corner. Tickets are $3 in advance and $5 on the day of the event.

Buckets of oysters will be on sale for $7. For more information, call (843) 899-5200 or visit www.oldsanteecanalpark.org.

WILLIAMSBURG COUNTY The Kingstree Historic District contains 48 different buildings on Main, Academy and Hampton streets that make up Kingstree’s downtown commercial area. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in June 1982, the district features the Williamsburg County Courthouse, a library, a railroad station and numerous businesses.

The Salters Plantation House was built

by William Salters before he died in 1833 and has had many renovations since. An

important example of 19th-century domestic architecture, which combined national and local trends, the building was primarily influenced by the Greek Revival, while its front porch is relatively common among similar porches across the Pee Dee during the time period. The plantation, home of Capt.

John Alexander Salters, eventually served as the land for Salters Depot, upon which the town of Salters was built. The site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in June 2000.

The Williamsburg County Historical Museum, 135 Hampton Ave., Kingstree, is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and features a room depicting a turn-of-the-century drug store. For more information, call (843) 355-3306 or email history1@ftc-i.net.

KERSHAW COUNTY Jackie Robinson: A Game Apart shows a glimpse of Jackie Robinson’s life during an era of separate and unequal locker rooms, whites-only hotels and restaurants with only a back door for “colored” athletes to enter.

Witness the humiliation of a baseball star who was showered with adulation on the field and treated as a second-class citizen off the diamond. The play will be presented Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. at Wood Auditorium, 810 Lyttleton St., Camden. For information, call (803) 425-7676. Tickets are $10 adults; $5 students.

The Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County is bringing back The Pitchforks of Duke University, a nationally acclaimed collegiate a cappella group on Feb. 7 at 8 p.m. at Wood Auditorium, 810 Lyttleton St., Camden.

The Pitchforks have sung for the Queen of Jordan; the U.S. Olympic Committee; Bill and Melinda Gates; a number of U.S. Cabinet officers; for the trustees and presidents of Duke University, Yale, Stanford and the Universities of Chicago, Michigan and North Carolina. They have also performed the “Star-Spangled Banner” for the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. For information, call (803) 425-7676. Tickets are $10 adults; $5 students.

With March comes Lewis Carroll’s unflappable young heroine “Alice in Wonderland.” See Columbia Children’s Theatre’s presentation of the play at Wood Auditorium, 810 Lyttleton St., Camden. This version, which is fun for the entire family, will be held at 7 nightly March 13, 14 and 15, with

a 3 p.m. matinee on Sunday, March 16. For information, call (803) 425-7676. Tickets are $10 adults; $8 students/seniors/military.

Learn or hone your skills while you enjoy the sport of shooting at Hermitage Farm Shooting Sports. Enjoy a sporting clays course, a skeet shooting area, a wobble trap and five stands that provide a wide range of shooting activities. Lessons are available by appointment, as well as gun and clubhouse rentals. On Wednesday nights, join Heritage Farm for Shoot & Dine. Hermitage Farm Shooting Sports is located at 2362 Tickle Hill Road in Camden. For more information call (803) 432-0210.

PowderKegg Wildlife Preserve is an evolving vision of Andrew W. Sabbagha, who started in January 1986 when he purchased the first tract of raw land on which only trees, vegetation and some animal life existed.

During the last 20 years, he has built three ponds tailored to provide the best habitat for increasing the number and size of fish. The preserve features dams, a residence lodge, fishing camp, out buildings, deer stands, condo deer stands, an eight-stall stable, jumping arena, dressage arena and road systems throughout the 1,000 acres. The preserve also hosts fencing and features a gazebo and an arched bridge. Enjoy one of the state’s only high-fence preserves, home to a plethora of mature trophy whitetail deer and an abundance of wildlife. Overnight resort lodging is always available, so you, too, can escape to nature and enjoy the serenity of a wildlife preserve at the main resort lodge or at Pond 3 Waterfront Lodging. Both have waterfront views. For more information, call (803) 432-1386 or visit www.powderkegg.org.

ORANGEBURG COUNTY The Edisto Memorial Gardens and Home Wetlands Park, off Seaboard Street in Orangeburg, is host to the Memorial Gardens, where fewer than 600 Confederate soldiers gathered to defend Edisto River Bridge. A marker honors this site, which they eventually abandoned for Columbia. The gardens were first developed in the 1920s with azaleas planted on five acres of land. A greenhouse was added in 1947, followed by a rose garden in 1951. The gardens display past and current award-winning roses from the All-American Rose Selections, with more than 4,000 plants representing at least 75 labeled varieties on display. The annual Festival of Roses, held in late April each year, is a popular gardens attraction.

The town of Elloree will host its annual Trash to Treasure event on March 8. Described as a town-wide yard sale, the event starts at 8 a.m. and features numerous vendors who will set up their displays on Cleveland Street in the downtown area. Others will set up yard sales in their own homes across town, as well. Vendors interested in being a part of the downtown portion of the event must pay a $10 fee. For more information, call Elloree Town Hall at (803) 897-2821. Admission is free to the public.

The Elloree Heritage and Cultural Museum is located on Historic Cleveland Street in downtown Elloree, about seven miles from Santee off Exit 98 at Interstate 95. Started in 1998 as part of the downtown area’s revitalization efforts, the museum boasts a rotating series of exhibits in its 10,000-squarefoot facility and specifically focuses on rural life of the past. The museum opened Oct. 5, 2002, with its Farm Wing being the first part open to the public. For more information, call (803) 897-2225 or visit elloreemuseum. org.

Edisto Memorial Gardens

Elloree Heritage & Cultural FEBRUARYMuseum - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

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Shad: They’re not just bait fish

by EARLE WOODWARD earlew@theitem.com

L

ike most outdoorsmen, I find February to be one of the toughest months to endure.

Deer and duck season have passed, and turkey season, shellcrackers and stripers have yet to really get started. I can busy myself cleaning shotguns and rifles to be stored and fishing reels to be used, but how many times can you do that before they drive you to the “funny farm?”

It’s either too cold – or too hot – during February and early March. The thermometer has a really hard time figuring out whether it wants to go up or down.

So, what’s a guy to do?

There is an event that kicks off during the middle of February and winds down during the end of March that has been going on for countless millennia and will probably continue long after mankind has perished from the earth: the annual shad run.

What? You’ve never heard of it? How can that be?

Well, to be perfectly honest, until about 10 years ago, I had never heard of it either, at least not around here. I had heard of it taking place in the rivers of Virginia and northward from there, but I’d never heard of it in South Carolina.

My running buddy, A.D. Allbritton, is coowner of a piece of property that borders on the Lower Santee River in Berkeley County.

It has a handful of wild turkeys that travel through every so often, and the season opens up on March 15 down there, so it just seemed like the thing to do to go to Berkeley County, camp out for a few days and hunt turkeys.

Suffice it to say that the turkeys were not doing all that much, and we spent a lot of time sitting in easy chairs on the banks of the river.

A.D. had gone somewhere to chase a turkey, and I was sitting there watching

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an older gentleman and what appeared to be his two grandchildren catching one fish after the other, almost as fast as they could cast the lure.

Curiosity finally got the best of me, and I walked down the bank to an area close enough to talk to him in his boat and asked him what he was catching and how to do it.

They were catching shad, and they were real easy to catch.

He was throwing a green curly-tailed jig on a hot pink jig head weighing about 1/81/16 oz. into the current. Above the jig was a buckshot-sized splitshot crimped on the line about a foot up. He and his grandchildren were reeling just fast enough to keep the jig off the bottom and were just hammering them.

You can pretty much figure out that A.D. and I were back the next weekend equipped with ultra light rods, light lines and a pocket full of jigs and jig heads.

It took us just a little while to be able to detect the bite, but once we figured it out, oh boy, it was on!

In all of my days of fishing, I do not think I have found a fish that is pound for pound a stronger, better fighter than a shad. Blazing drag peeling, dashes, high, tumbling leaps and deep dives – they don’t call them the “poor man’s tarpon” for nothing.

It soon became evident that the key to landing the fish was a very light drag setting. You have to play these fellows because their mouths are just too tender to be manhandled, and you need a landing net for the same reason. If you try to lift one out of the water by the line, you’ll just rip his mouth open.

Since that day, we make it a plan to spend at least a few days every spring on the river catching shad. A.D. and I have had days where we just could not keep them off the lines ... and we’ve had days when five to

six fish in a four-hour day was all we could manage.

My pal, Coffee Pot, has learned about shad fishing, now, and he is a fanatic about it.

It’s just as fun to sit back and watch him catch ’em.

This is one fishing activity that is suitable for any member of the family. Accurate casting is not a must; just get it into the water.

We’ve spent all our time fishing the Lower Santee River and Re-Diversion Canal around the Hwy 52 bridge between Greeleyville and St. Stephens, but I understand that they also run in the Pee Dee. You can stand on the banks of the ReDiversion Canal and cast far enough into the current to catch them.

We use NASCAR’s “Speed Week” as the unofficial start of shad season, usually around Feb. 15-20 – although I have caught the occasional fish before that – and the season will run on into early April, although the peak is usually in early to mid-March.

The shad can run in size from a pound or two up to 5 to 6 pounds, and let me tell you something, a 5-pound acrobat, on light tackle and line, fighting a river’s current will provide all the entertainment you can stand for one afternoon.

As great as they are on the line, I find them woefully lacking on the table. I do know some folks that love ’em, but I’m not counted in that number. The eggs of the females are considered a delicacy, and I do like them, but I just can’t kill a fish for the eggs alone.

It’s time. By the time this issue hits the stands, the run will be just around the corner. I’d like to suggest that you grab the kids, a handful of green jigs and have at it.

The kids will have a blast, and so will you.

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1/22/14 11:49 AM

Mud

Slingers Mudding still a cherished pastime around lakes

10 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

by ROB COTTINGHAM rcottingham@theitem.com

Will Watson, William Creech and Brad Goodson explore the Clarendon county countryside on four-wheelers.

Mud-covered trucks

We’ve all seen them rolling down highways and busy streets, alike, and many might look on wondering how they got so dirty and why someone hasn’t washed them.

The rest of us know exactly how they got that way – and why they haven’t been washed.

Mudding is a longtime favorite activity of Southerners. Even if you’ve only casually dabbled in the pastime or merely watched from the sidelines, once you’ve seen it happening, you understand why someone might like it.

The thrill

Brothers Jay and Brad Goodson, 17 and 13 years old, respectively, have enjoyed mudding since their early childhood.

“I went to a truck pull with a few friends in Manning,” Jay said.

“Dad took us, and it was a laid-back time.”

Despite how mild the occasion seemed, it definitely got Jay’s attention, as he eventually introduced his brother to the fun.

“I remember going when I was really young,” Brad said. “Jay took me to Darlington with him and we had a whole lot of fun with friends and family up there.”

William Creech, 18, a close friend of the Goodsons, can also recall his first mudding adventure – as well as how things can go wrong.

“I went mudding for the first time when I was 7,” Creech said. “I went out with my cousins in a golf cart. We ended up sinking it in the river, though.”

It wasn’t done on purpose, Creech explained.

“The cart had big tires on it, so we thought it would float,” he said.

“It did not.”

As far as choosing a vehicle, there are many choices available, according to the three avid mudders.

“I take trucks, ATVs and dirt bikes out,” Jay said. “Depends on where I’m going and what kind of mood I’m in.”

While Creech is inclined to agree with Jay’s options, Brad said he prefers to take four-wheelers and Rhinos out in the mud.

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 11

Comin’ back

When they’re out and about playing in clay, dirt, mud, sand or whatever else they can spin their tires through, it’s all about the fun.

What makes it fun, however, depends on the person.

“I mainly go to spend time with family and friends,” Jay said. “It’s always a good time.”

“I just like having fun,” Brad said excitedly, “and wasting gas doing it.”

As with most things that involve motors, there’s a certain thrill about all things fueled with gasoline, and Creech said that’s the selling point for him.

“I love getting down in a mud hole and trying to drive through it. It’s such a rush,” he said. “I can feel the adrenaline.”

While his older brother might occasionally enjoy pulling a kneeboard behind one of the fourwheelers, Brad said his passion lies in the core of the sport: Getting stuck.

“I really like getting stuck and trying to get out,” Brad said. “That’s the most fun thing for me.”

Dusty and busted

Going out and slingin’ some mud around is definitely fun to those who go mudding, but sometimes things can get out of hand.

All that stress on the vehicles – and the bodies riding in and on them – can make for some serious wear and tear. The boys said they’ve had some wild things happen while out having fun.

“I once got caught in a pretty severe thunderstorm,” Jay said.

“It was pretty dangerous, looking back on it. I haven’t been injured, but I have damaged some truck frames before.”

Brad said he narrowly avoided a serious injury when he flipped his four-wheeler in a mudhole. Luckily, he came out fine. Creech, on the other hand, said he’s had some absolutely disastrous things happen.

“Well, I’d definitely say I’ve damaged vehicles before,” he said. “I’ve broken frames and left some pretty serious water damage.”

Sinking a golf cart definitely counts as water damage.

Dudley Osteen, service adviser manager at Fulton Automotive, said people need to keep an eye on a few things about their vehicles if they’re going to go mudding.

12 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

“For one, they need to make sure they have the proper skid plates,” he said.

Skid plates are solid plates of steel that are fastened to the undercarriage of vehicles to prevent dirt, mud and other, sometimes larger-debris from getting into the engine. Most off-road-ready vehicles come with skid plates installed.

“Lots of people take them off to do work on their trucks and SUVs,” Osteen said. “Then they forget to put them back on.”

A replacement set of skid plates generally runs in the $150 range, he said.

The nine-year professional has seen quite a few repairs involving these plates at his shop, located at 801 E. Liberty St. in Sumter.

“They also need to regularly check their wheel seals and bearings,” Osteen added. “If they have a bad wheel seal, water and grime get inside the axle and can really do some damage. The seal is the lifeline for conventional wheel bearing systems.”

In the many setups, replacing the seals runs about $200. For the more updated setups, which involve an entire assembly, you’re looking at about $600 for a typical domestic wheel hub assembly, Osteen said. But even many of the newer trucks have the old ball bearing setup in the rear, which might cost as much as $300 to fix.

While a decent set of mud tires would seem to be a given, Osteen suggests being realistic about your setup.

“Some people will pay thousands of dollars for a set of four really good mud tires,” he said, “but if anything punches through that sidewall, you’ll just have a really expensive piece of rubber.”

Osteen explained that many punctures are fixable with a plug, but that’s only because the outside edge of the tire that touches the road is much thicker and more reinforced than the sidewall.

“You can’t patch up a sidewall, at all,” he said. “As soon as you drive it, the pressure will cause it to come off.”

If you get fairly deep in the mud, Osteen said it’s ideal to remind yourself to wash the radiator afterward.

“Using a simple garden hose to wash it off will work,” he said. “If you leave that mud caked on there, the fins of the radiator won’t work

like they’re supposed to, which keeps the radiator from cooling the fluid like it’s supposed to.”

ATVs, on the other hand, don’t necessarily require as much maintenance, Osteen said, as they’re designed for all-terrain travel.

He does have two bits of advice, though.

“Be sure to keep chain lubricant on hand if you have a chain-driven ATV,” he said. “And keep an eye on the rubber boot that protects the wheel assembly.”

A muddy badge of honor

As folks continue to tear up the wild outdoors during their fourby-four off-road rampages, they’ll also leave the mud right where it is. For some, it’s a matter of looks. “To me, it just makes a truck look good,” Jay said. “It’s more than just pride.” Others might say it’s about showing your expertise in the sport. “It’s definitely about pride,” Brad said. “It shows you know what you’re doing.” Fewer might even have it summed up more bluntly. “It just looks sexy to a country boy,” Creech said.

Clair Holland, back, and Christian Hodge decide where to take their four-wheeler at a wooded piece of land turned to streets of mud in Clarendon County.

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 13

Gettin’ multicultural in Camden Check out this year’s edition of Gospel Fest & Heritage Tea

by ROB COTTINGHAM rcottingham@theitem.com

14 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

E

very hometown has its particular festivals that celebrate elements of its character and the diversity of the cultures of its residents, and Camden is surely a town marked for its personality.

“It’s always a good time,” said event coordinator Dionne Hough. “If the weather cooperates, it’s a sold-out event.”

Gospel Fest, organized by Multi-Cultural Committee of the Fine Arts Center, will take place from 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, to Sunday, Feb. 23, at the Wood Auditorium in Camden. Tickets for the event are $8 for all ages.

This year, several local gospel choirs will celebrate community unity at the festival through their singing, which will comprise various genres of gospel music that incorporate many styles, headed by Billy Shephard as master of ceremonies.

Performances include acts by Christian Musicians Guild, Gospel Cavaliers, Camden First United Methodist Church and Canty Hill Baptist Church and Abundant Life Fellowship Choral.

“We’ll also have some newcomers this year, as well,” Hough said. “New Life Trio from Lugoff will be one of them.”

At the end of the evening, the audience will be encouraged to participate in a group singing with the choirs.

“Everyone joins in,” Hough said. “It’s really special.”

As the festival places a spotlight on Black History Month, there will also be art on display at the arts center during Gospel Fest that focuses on cultural icons.

The pieces for the exhibits are composed by 3rd- through 8th-grade students from around Kershaw County and will be chosen by each school for the display in the historic DouglasReed House at the Fine Arts Center.

“You won’t be disappointed,” Hough said. “It’s a great family event.”

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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 15

16 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

Hound of the

Huntsman Boykin spaniels remain choice waterfowling dog

by JADE REYNOLDS jade@theitem.com

Boykin Spaniel puppy Moxie frolics at Kim Parkman’s training grounds.

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 17

Nama Karo heels with trainer Kim Parkman

K

nown as “the little brown dog,” the Boykin spaniel has become popular beyond just its namesake town or even the state where it has served as the official dog since 1985.

“We’re seeing more and more going for pets,” said Rusty Wilson, owner of Scape ‘Ore Kennel and Hunting, who said he has worked with the breed since the ’70s. “I’ve shipped them all over the United States as well as overseas. They are one of God’s greatest gifts to mankind besides his own son. I’ll die with a Boykin in my lap.”

Originally bred for hunting ducks and wild turkeys in the Wateree River Swamp, the breed was developed in the early 1900s by L.W. “Whit” Boykin and his relatives, according to the Boykin Spaniel Society.

“It does not rock the boat,” Wilson said. “It’s small in nature, so you can reach over, pick it up and put it in the boat. You can’t do that with a lab or a golden retriever. They are real heavy.

“Boykins are outstanding retrievers and super flushing dogs. I’ve used them on quail hunting, too, but most of them today are used for dove and duck. They are pretty well-tempered and easy to train. They are extremely smart.”

Kim Parkman, owner of Pocotaligo Kennel LLC, has trained many

18 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

different dog breeds since opening her business in 1984 but said her “heart is with field dogs that hunt or compete.”

“I try very hard to place (Boykin) puppies in hunting homes,” Parkman said. “They are high-energy sporting dogs. That energy needs to be channeled in a positive way, or it will be channeled in another, and it may be in a destructive way such as digging up the azaleas or tearing clothes off the lines. Work it or hunt it. Then they will be happy to lie at your feet.

“We have one with us; he’s a master hunter and national champion,” she continued. “He’s happy to chill out in my lap, but he’d rather be out working.”

She mostly uses her Boykin spaniels for dove hunting now, but said they are not limited to hunting one type of game.

“Quite frankly, you can hunt anything with them,” Parkman said.

“Some take to the water more so than others. If you breed consistently for certain traits, you hope that over time that will be what you get – healthy dogs with strong hunting instincts and good temperaments to be good family dogs. Those are the qualities I hold dear. I don’t get mixed up in the tall or short, straight or curly hair. Those things are way down the line for me.”

Namo Karo shaking off some water after jumping in the pond.

The standards, according to the Society, include: • 14 to 18 inches in height and weighing between 25 and 40 pounds; • A flat to moderately curly coat with medium length, fine hair with a light feathering on the legs, feet, ears, chest and belly. A short straight coat without feathering is also acceptable; and • A rich liver or reddish brown color or dark chocolate allowing for a small, white spot on the chest.

“In the early days, I saw them as large as a lab and as small as a poodle,” Wilson said. “The way I look at it now, we’ve come to just a mixed breed liver dog with a little white on its chest.”

The breed’s heritage is reported to include Chesapeake Bay retriever, springer spaniel, cocker spaniel and the American water spaniel, according to the society.

The main health concern that has cropped up in the breed is hip dysplasia, the abnormal formation of the hip socket that can lead to crippling arthritis.

“All breeds have problems associated with the breed,” Parkman said. “Have the hips checked. If it comes back moderate or severe hip dysplasia, you’ve got to think, ‘as much as I love this dog, it shouldn’t breed.’ You’ll never get rid of it, but if you keep a check and do your

due diligence, it will minimize that effect.”

This doesn’t mean the dog is put down. It is simply not used as breeding stock.

According to the society, other health problems to watch for include: • Juvenile cataracts, which can lead to glaucoma and blindness; • Pulmonic stenosis, narrowing and obstruction of the heart’s pulmonary valve that can lead to a murmur, arrhythmia and/or congestive heart failure; • Exercise Induced Collapse, characterized by muscle weakness, incoordination and life-threatening collapse when participating in strenuous exercise or activity; • Luxating Patella or floating knee cap; and • Collie Eye Anomaly, another eye disease that can lead to blindness The cost of a Boykin Spaniel puppy can range from $600 to $2,000.

“If their parents passed health tests, it adds value to the puppies,” Parkman said. “It can also go up depending on blood lines, field accomplishments, etc.”

For more information on Boykin Spaniels, visit boykinspaniel.org.

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 19

Landmark landing only part of

Senator’s Legacy

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hen searching for the boat ramp on Lake Marion named after one of the area’s longest-serving state legislators, it’s easy to get turned around. A boater or fisherman looking for the larger, multi-ramp facility at the end of Greenall Road beside the Santee National Wildlife Refuge could easily get redirected to another “John Land landing” some 15 miles away.

“There’s another one on (S.C.) 260 behind the Lake Marion dam,” said Land, who represented Clarendon County in the S.C. Senate for almost four decades, and in the process got more than his share of named sites on the county’s lake front. “(That one’s) called the Borrow Pit because they borrowed the sand for it from the dam. They named it after me because I got the funding for the ramps,” Land said.

But if you’re looking for the one with 170 paved parking spaces for vehicles and trailers, six launch lanes and four courtesy docks, you’re looking for what’s formally called the John C. Land III Boating and Sportsfishing Facility.

“It’s been a wonderful asset,” Land said of the popular spot for fishing events, which opened under his name in 1994, when he was already a 20-year legislative veteran. “Fishermen from all over the country come there for the bass-fishing tournament. It’s a showcase for the county.”

Land credits the landing, open for free year-round by the Department of Natural Resources and Santee Cooper, with being a boon to the local economy. Fishing tournaments on the lake have even been featured on national television.

“I’ve had people call me from California who saw the facility’s name flash across their TV screen, and they wondered if that was me,” Land said.

The ramp isn’t the only recognition the former senator has received from his home community.

Robert M. Fleming, president of the Manning NAACP, is a longtime friend who remembers his father, Billy Fleming, Land and Land’s father working together in the early days of the Civil Rights movement.

“He’s given himself to the betterment of Clarendon County,” Fleming said. “I’ve had the pleasure to watch Clarendon County change and evolve because of his hard work and sacrifice. The decisions he made sometimes were not popular, but they were the right thing to do.”

James Dingle, who was appointed to the state magistrate’s bench

by Land, has seen the effect he’s had on the area firsthand.

“He was instrumental in opening the new Manning High School” after a failed referendum to build the new school in 1979, Dingle said. “He spearheaded the effort the next time. (The old school was) too congested. We needed bigger grounds, more classrooms, and he saw the need for that.”

Fleming recalls the reactions he saw as a young teenager in supporters after the first school vote failed.

“Many people were sad, some folks were crying,” he said. “Then I went home, and my father and John Land were already planning the next referendum.”

Reflecting on Land’s career, the judge said it was Land’s impartiality and open mind that made him such a wonderful leader.

“He really was a true politician for all the people,” Dingle said. “What made him unique is he was color-blind. He would help anybody, white or black, it didn’t matter.”

Part of that legacy is a boating and fishing site that Land credits with bringing tourists to the lake, drawing customers to Clarendon County businesses and improving recreational opportunities and quality of life for his former constituents.

“The fact that it’s named after me is the least important part of it,” he said.

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Take a trip to Elloree for

by ROB COTTINGHAM rcottingham@theitem.com

A

Pork Fest

s the cold weather subsides and the critters get back to scurrying about, folks tend to go out and do more, themselves.

Luckily, as temperatures rise, there’s more to do, and if you like a party and don’t mind driving to Elloree, you’ve got something to look forward to in April.

Pork Fest, an annual celebration held in warm, small Orangeburg County town, takes place April 11-12 at Joe Miller Park. Elloree Town Hall Clerk Danielle Sanders said the occasion has plenty to offer.

“It’s just good family fun,” said Elloree Town Hall Clerk Danielle Sanders. “Anyone who comes won’t be disappointed.”

The event starts with an “anything but pork” night on April 11 in which visitors purchase a ticket and sample numerous treats.

“They’ll have lots of side items, soups and desserts,” SandersWinningham said. “After they’re done sampling, visitors can then vote on their favorites.”

Sanders said there are two votes, one by visitors and another by judges.

On Saturday, it’s all about pig. Much like the Friday format, visitors pay $7 for a ticket to sample all the offerings. For the primary competition, the town of Elloree provides Boston butts for contestants.

The pig-pickin’ pleasure-fest starts at 11 a.m. and runs into the early afternoon or until samples run out, Sanders said, expects a big turnout for the event.

“We’ve come to expect 300 to 400 people to show up,” she said. “It gets bigger every year.”

The event also features a silent auction in which bidders battle for cement pigs painted by

22 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

local civic groups and businesses. The Elloree Historical Museum will also have a bake sale under the Gasque Shelter in the park on Saturday morning.

If you’re bringing along the little ones, the park features playgrounds and covered picnic areas. And while visitors munch on succulent swine samples, there will also be live music to enjoy.

“The Sugarloaf Mountain Boys will be playing all day,” Sanders said.

“They’ve played for us before, and they always put on a good show.”

Advance tickets are $5 for adults and $2.50 for children 10 and under. Tickets purchased on the days of the event are $6 for adults and $3 for children 10 and under. All children 6 and under are free.

Those interested in competing or taking part in the event may call Elloree Town Hall for more information at (803) 897-2821.

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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 27

DayVenture: Indian Mound

by RAYTEVIA EVANS revans@theitem.com

A number of waterfowl visit the Santee National Wildlife Refuge on Lake Marion to go through their natural life cycles without disturbance. Birdwatchers, researchers and those interested in nature often visit the wildlife refuge to observe and study the animals in their natural habitats.

A

nyone who knows me would tell you that the last place I would want to spend my free time is outdoors. My idea of a fun day is usually filled with food, drinks (preferably alcoholic), great conversation and/or an amazing movie or marathon of Law & Order: SVU. But on a rainy day in December, I received the opportunity to explore the Santee National Wildlife Refuge in Summerton. To my chagrin, my interest in history slowly surfaced during an informative tour led by Refuge Manager Marc Epstein. The local refuge is not only a great (and free) day trip in the area, but it’s also an educational experience with lots to explore.

Throughout the year, Epstein said many visitors stop by the wildlife refuge for several reasons, including conducting wildlife studies, bird watching, photographing nature, walking or biking the trails, hunting and fishing.

During my tour, Epstein explained that the refuge was established to create a place where waterfowl and other wildlife can “go through their natural life cycles without being disturbed.”

As Epstein described it, these animals need a place to just be and live their lives without the fear of being hunted or disturbed in any way. The refuge also gives people the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat as opposed to seeing animals at the zoo, Epstein said.

In the winter, a number of birds fly to the refuge, it being one of the last stops during migrations. More than 300 different species of birds have been seen at the refuge, including Canada geese, mallards, blue-winged teal and pied-billed grebe.

To better appreciate the history that’s right here in your backyard, visit the Santee Indian Mound and Fort Watson, located in the Bluff Unit at the wildlife refuge. History shows that the Santee Indians 28 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

were part of the Mississippian culture and lived along the Santee River for thousands of years.

According to DiscoverSouthCarolina.com, the mound is estimated to be about 1,000 years old. Epstein explained that the mound served as a ceremonial site and is where the chief and other tribe members were buried. Historians have different estimates for the number of tribe members that were located at the Indian Mound, ranging from 1,500 to 3,000.

By 1715, the tribe was reduced to about 500 people after many died from diseases brought by the early settlers. Within 150 years of first European contact, the tribe had been extirpated, and the mound was repurposed at the end of the 18th century when British troops used it as an outpost they named Fort Watson. Epstein said General Thomas Sumter made multiple unsuccessful attempts to take the fort.

Throughout the year, the Santee National Wildlife Refuge hosts a number of events, including photography workshops and birding hikes. In April, the refuge hosts the very popular Santee Birding and Nature Festival, which consists of natural history walks, canoe and kayak trips and a boat trip on Lake Marion.

Personally, I couldn’t deny it was an interesting day trip. If you’re looking to get more involved with outdoor activities at the refuge, there’s plenty of opportunity to do so. Located right off Lake Marion, the wildlife refuge is a great place for fishing, hiking and exploring.

With 13,000 acres of land, marsh, pond, field and open waters, there’s plenty to do. And if you want to make it an overnight experience, make your way across the lake to Santee National Park.

For more information about the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, visit http://www.fws.gov/santee/.

ABOVE: During a rainy day in December, the Indian Mound and the rest of the Santee National Wildlife Refuge in Summerton still had a number of visitors. The refuge usually sees thousands of South Carolina and out-of-state visitors throughout the year.

LEFT: An alligator stalks a Little Blue Heron at the Santee National Wildlife Refuge in Summerton. This is one of many birds that can be spotted at the refuge during spring. (photo by Susan Heisey)

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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 29

Catfishing good in cold, murky water

by JADE REYNOLDS jade@theitem.com

WATEREE — February on Lake Wateree can be a real hit or miss, said Andy Owens, avid fisher and owner of Vengence Tackle in Camden.

“But there is hope,” he said. “When the water temperatures are cold and the water is muddy, it can be really tough to catch much of anything except the big blue catfish, which normally bite best in conditions like this.

The water temperatures should hover around 44 to 50 degrees depending on rainfall, temperatures and wind.”

While any day is good to go fishing, the best bet for actually catching fish is to go after two or three days of warm, sunny weather.

“If you should happen to catch one of these warming trends followed by a cloudy day, you might be in for a real treat,” Owens said. “The fish will hang out around main lake rocky points and docks, as these will be the warmest parts of the lake.”

Keep the lures small and the presentations slow, he said. If you are specifically aiming to catch largemouth bass, Owens recommends a No. 5 or No. 7 Shad rap in a natural shad or crawdad color. Another good presentation is a jig in a black and blue, black and red or a brownish color, but again, he said keep the presentation slow.

If you are targeting crappie, try live minnows and crappie jigs in a variety of colors to find what is working best.

“Brush piles and bridge pilings are a good bet,” Owens said.

The white perch and stripers should still be out on deeper humps in the 20 to 25-foot range, too. “ Vertical jigging a slab spoon in the ½-ounce to ¾-ounce range will work great,” Owens said. “Give it your best shot, and hang in there.

Warmer weather is just around the corner.”

30 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

Fishing Report with

Don Drose

by ROB COTTINGHAM rcottingham@theitem.com

LAKE MARION — While some might assume fishing during colder weather is difficult, veteran angler Don Drose Sr. said it’s all about knowing what you’re fishing for and monitoring water temperatures.

“Stripers are still doing pretty well, despite the weather,” Drose said. “So long as the water temperature stays above 45 degrees, the shad keep moving, and the stripers stay hungry.”

According to the expert, at 45 degrees, shad, herring and other small bait fish begin to die or move so slowly that the stripers eat as much as they want and lose interest in an angler’s bait.

Drose said he’s heard numerous reports of catches in the 20-pound range, and the best fishing has been within three miles of the north side of Lake Marion. Other anglers have had success trolling with artificial bait in the diversion canal between the two lakes, especially near rock piles.

“I’d recommend using shiners, shad or small herring if you’re going to use live bait, though,” Drose said.

Catfish, on the other hand, do quite well during the colder months. When a cold front moves through, Drose explained, it cools the surface water to temperatures lower than those at deeper depths, forcing smaller fish to “school up” in tighter formations and move to the warmer waters below. He said this provides a great opportunity.

“Catfish tend to gather around schools of fish to feed,” Drose said.

“Dropping a hook with dead shad at a depth of 20 to 30 feet has worked pretty well. Some have reported much success fishing just five to six feet below the surface at night, as well.”

While catfish and stripers are still doing well, Drose said you may as well forget about fishing for crappie.

“It’s just too cold for them,” Drose said. “They’ll return once temperatures return to the high 50s to low 60s range. It’s the same with bream, but there are a few folks that have said fishing 12 to 18 feet beneath a drop off or other structure does pretty well.”

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 31

Upcoming

Tournaments

Feb. 14-15 Bass Pro Shop’s Crappie Masters Tour Registration will be held from 5-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, at Manning High School, 2155 Paxville Fishable waters: From U.S. 601 bridge to Lake Marion Dam. Lake Moultrie is off limits.

Feb. 14 Big Fish Competition Highway in Manning, followed by a seminar at 6:30 p.m.

Cost: $100 per person (late fee applies after Feb. 1) Boating limits: Up to 3 people per boat Payout: 80 percent payback; top 3 big fish in each division win prize Divisions: Crappie and Bass Fishing hours: 7 to 10 a.m., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.

Awards ceremony: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14 at John C. Land III Landing facilities Weigh-in sites: John C. Land III Landing, 4404 Greenall Road, Summerton, SC Carolina King Retreat Boat Ramp, 2498 Belser Road, Summerton, SC

Feb. 15 National qualifier Cost: Entry Fee - $200; Big Fish - $10; Late Fee - $25 (applied after Feb. 1) Fishing hours: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Weigh in: Participants must be in weigh-in line by 4:30 p.m.

Weigh-in sites: John C. Land III Landing, 4404 Greenall Road, Summerton, SC

Feb. 21-22 Cabela’s King Kat Tournament 2014 at Lake Marion Payout: $10,000 plus prizes There will be a tournament seminar at Manning High School, 2155 Paxville Highway in Manning, at 7 p.m. Friday evening preceded by late sign-ins from 5-7 p.m. The seminar is open to the public.

Tournament runs from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22.

Weigh in: 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 – Anyone not in line by this time will be disqualified. Participants are not allowed to fish between midnight and 6:30 a.m. on the day of the tournament.

Weigh-in sites: John C. Land III Landing, 4404 Greenall Road, Summerton, SC

Legal waters: Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie The kids rodeo will be held at John C. Land III Landing on the day of the tournament.

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“If you kiss your

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by JUDGE LEE TINDAL “If you kiss your elbow you will turn into a boy.”

These were the words that my oldest brother, Larry, said to me when I asked why I couldn’t shoot a gun. I was probably 11 or 12 at the time.

My brothers would allow me to hunt with them, but my “hunting” consisted of pulling vines to scare the squirrels from their nests and then climbing the tree to retrieve it if it didn’t fall to the ground after being shot.

They even “let” me clean the squirrels when we got back home.

Thus began my love of the outdoors, and although I know that, as a female, I’m in the minority when it comes to hunting, I am seeing an increase in the number of women who want to learn why someone will get up at 4:30 in the morning and sit in 30-degree weather for hours.

I love to hunt deer and hogs. I’m in a deer stand as often as time will allow during the season. My favorite time to hunt is in the morning, not so much that you’ll usually see bucks when you hunt early, but because there is something so special about walking into the woods in the dark,

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climbing a deer stand and waiting for the rest of the world to come to life.

After hunting regularly, you know the first sounds you’ll hear when the sun begins to rise. Other than the distant sound of an automobile, you sit in silence and know that you are blessed to be able to be a spectator in this world.

I have two eight-points and a nine-point mounted, and until this past year, I’ve left harvesting does to anyone else that wanted meat for the freezer.

My deer tale of the year My goal is to kill a buck that has a spread outside of his ears and has at least eight points. After being patient and passing up smaller bucks, I saw a huge buck working his scrape line, but it was too dark for me to make a good shot (legal hunting time but too dark and no moon). I eased down from the stand, knowing that I would be waiting for him at first light.

The next morning, I walked the dirt road and found the path to cut through. It was so dark I couldn’t see my hand in front of my face, but I crept most of the way and realized I was not sure where I was. I bent down and turned on the flashlight, and once I had my bearings, I took a step.

That’s when a vine caught my gun and caused it to tumble to the ground.

I climbed the stand and proceeded to load my rifle. All I felt was grit in the chamber.

At sunrise, the biggest deer I ever saw – other than on television – appeared before me. I aimed, released the safety, pulled the trigger and nothing happened. He walked off, and the next time I saw him, he was on the ground. It just wasn’t my time.

But come Aug. 15, 2014, I will have my crossbow sighted in and will hunt with it until rifle season begins on Sept. 1.

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On Lake the

PHOTO PROVIDED/ASHLEY STEPPE On the way ice fishing one morning up north and I spotted this fawn in the woods.

One of the first pics taken with my new camera I got for Christmas this year.

PHOTO PROVIDED MARK PEKURI 21.5� 7lb. large mouth bass caught at John C. Land Landing.

PHOTO PROVIDED ASHLEY STEPPE This was taken on my farm one afternoon while walking to my deer stand looking out over the cotton field.

PHOTO PROVIDED DEBRA GLEATON First light on Lake Marion

Please submit photos to rcottingham@theitem.com or cjohnson@theitem.com Deadline for submissions for the next edition is March 10, 2014.

36 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

PHOTO PROVIDED ASHLEY STEPPE Cash loves the camera and his hunting blind.

PHOTO PROVIDED ASHLEY STEPPE I shot this deer the last week of sept of this past hunting season. I had been watching him every night for almost two weeks and actually said a little prayer that afternoon that if this was the one I was suppose to take to let him walk close and stand perfect and he did just that. He was 200 lbs 8 points.

PHOTO PROVIDED HUGH MCLAURIN Hugh McLaurin and his group oh hunters show off the dozen fowl they harvested recently.

PHOTO PROVIDED MARK PEKURI Bee enjoying a beautiful marigold at a friend’s house on Eagle rd in Sumter.

PHOTO PROVIDED/ASHLEY STEPPE I took this a couple weeks ago one afternoon in my back yard. This is looking into the branches on my farm. The sky was so beautiful that afternoon.

PHOTO PROVIDED JEFF BYER Poinsett State Park on a very cold morning right before the sun came up.

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 37

What is an invasive

wildflower?

by DEANNA ANDERSON seakla@yahoo.com

W

ildflowers are everywhere, and while there are thousands of species, they can be broken down into three categories: native, naturalized and non-native species.

Native species are, of course, ones that are indigenous to an area and have grown naturally; they exist in a region without human intervention.

Naturalized species are plants that were introduced to an area, but have acclimated well, are not detrimental to a region and are basically accepted by the general populace as a native plant (many of our cash crops are naturalized species).

Then there are the plants that make horticulturalists, gardeners, botanists and naturalists shudder: invasive species. Also known as noxious weeds, a species becomes invasive when it meets two criteria: 1) it is not native to the ecosystem, and 2) it is likely to be or already has been detrimental to the environment, the economy or human health.

Invasive species are harmful to the environment when they choke out our native plants with their densely grown root systems or by competing with (and winning against) our native species for soil, sun and water. Some flora also produce chemicals that inhibit the growth of nearby plants.

Many pollinators rely on certain plant species, and if it dies out because of an invasive species, we often end up seeing that pollinator on the threatened or endangered list. Invasive plants also threaten the environment by decreasing plant diversity and degrading wildlife habitats.

Our economy is affected when invasive species destroy cash crops or cost individuals and businesses thousands of dollars to eradicate.

They also bring about blights, parasites and diseases, and we spend precious money and resources to keep these pesty plants from affecting cash crops or native vegetation. Invasive species can also decrease the quality of agricultural lands.

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These plants also affect our health by introducing allergens we are not acclimated to, degrading water quality, increasing soil erosion and decreasing recreational opportunities. It’s hard to swim, boat or fish in weed-infested waterways.

Unfortunately, we cannot always predict whether a plant will become invasive, and sometimes it exists for years before it becomes problematic.

By the time we discover its invasive effects, the damage is usually already done.

In its native region, there are checks and balances that prevent it from being a problem, such as animals, other plants, climate or terrain. However, these checks and balances don’t typically accompany these plants when they’re introduced to a new area, giving the plant free reign to do as it pleases.

Invasive plants often thrive in their new homes because they may produce mass quantities of seed, can grow in disturbed soil or less-thanfavorable conditions and often have aggressive root systems (the Chinese Lantern, Physalis alkekendi, can propagate even when its roots have been cut to ¼ inch).

Invasive species are not introduced out of malice but usually with the best of intentions or by accidental means. Many of our current invasive species were imported by early explorers and pioneers for aesthetic value, forestry, food sources, erosion control or as stock feed. Today, they are introduced to areas through non-native cultivars purchased in garden centers or when people dig up wildflowers to transplant in their yards. Even the seemingly harmless act of picking a flower and bringing it home can transport the seeds and introduce an invasive species to an area. In protected areas, picking

flowers and digging up plants is considered wildflower poaching and is a serious crime.

Invasive species also spread unintentionally through seeds collected in our camping gear, shoes and tire treads or through seed dispersion from birds, animals, pollinators or the wind. Seeds have also been known to be distributed in the feed of pack animals either while it eats or in their waste.

There isn’t much we can do about natural factors such as wind and pollinators, but we can reduce the spread of invasive species by purchasing certified weed-free animal feed; by camping, hiking or driving on approved trails, roads or campgrounds; and by using only native cultivars in our gardening and landscaping. With just a little forethought and careful consideration, we can reduce the spread of invasive species and preserve our native wildflowers.

For more information about native plants and cultivars, visit the Home and Garden Information Center at www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic and the South Carolina Native Plant Society (SCNPS) at www.scnps.com.

For more information about invasive species visit Celebrate Wildflowers at www.fed.us/wildflowers.

Anderson, along with her husband and daughters, has made Sumter her home for 12 years. In addition to being a wife and mother, she is a published author and in her spare time enjoys hiking and exploring South Carolina’s natural resources.

She is the creator of the Facebook group “Carolina Wildflowers” which you can join for free by visiting www. facebook.com/groups/ scwildflowers.

You can also view her author page at andersondeanna.weebly.com.

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Buck Travis (Owner), Scott Clark (B.I.C.) Eletha Travis (Office Coordinator) FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 39

Soil

fertility

by JOLIE ELIZABETH BROWN jolie2@clemson.edu

H

ave you ever considered the fact that every drop of water you drink and every morsel of food you enjoy has been touched at one time or another by soil? Everyone knows soil is a fancy word for dirt, right?

Wrong!

Soil is the medium in which we grow the plants that we and our livestock eat. It is a living, breathing thing that supports our crops and it is chock full of tiny, microscopic organisms we rely on to break down organic matter to enrich our soil.

Soil isn’t the only medium that all plants (except those grown hydroponically) grow in, but it contains the nutrients those same plants need to survive, grow and be healthy.

A few of the main nutrients plants need are nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur. There are also micronutrients, such as zinc and manganese, that are no less important to healthy plants; they are just needed in much smaller quantities. pH level is also a major factor to consider before planting your garden or flowers. pH is the measure of how acidic or alkaline your soil is, and it directly affects nutrient availability. Some plants thrive in acidic soils. A few examples are azaleas, rhododendrons and blueberries. Other plants like more basic soils. A few examples of alkaline loving plants are forsythia, hydrangea, asparagus and butterfly bush.

Knowing your soils is important when planning what to plant. You always want to use the right plant in the right place.

Soil fertility is a hot topic, and for good reason. People think

40 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

fertilizer is the answer, but it’s only part of the answer. You can fertilize until the cows come home, but if it isn’t the right fertilizer, or does not provide the nutrients that your soil and plants need, it will do you no good.

To find out what nutrients your soils are deficient in, you must test the soil. Clemson Extension can help you with this. Each county has a Clemson Extension office that accepts soil samples. The samples are sent to Clemson University’s Agricultural Services Lab in Clemson for analysis. You will receive easy-to-read information about your soil’s pH, nutrient deficiencies and liming needs. It is important to test your soil in time to get your results and incorporate the recommended lime before planting.

Most South Carolina soils are acidic and will require lime from time to time. Lime takes time to do its job of making the soil more basic.

The winter is a great time to test your soil. Clemson recommends that you test your soil every year. Think about the nutrients that your flowers or vegetables take out of the soil every time they bloom or fruit. These nutrients need to be replaced.

The best way to sample your soil is to take about 12 samples from the area in which you will plant. Combine these samples in a clean bucket and mix to get a composite sample. Make sure your trowel or shovel is clean. Any residue from pesticides or fertilizers will create misleading results.

After you have combined your samples, put at least two cups of the composite sample into a bag to bring to your local Clemson Extension office. Agents at the office will help you fill in the information the lab needs, such as what crops you want to grow and what is currently in

your soil. The tests are $6 each. You will receive your results in 10 to 14 days. A copy of your results can be mailed or emailed to you.

Testing your soil is not only important to ensure your plants have what they need to grow, but it is also important to your wallet and environment. Fertilizers are not cheap and should not be wasted.

Plants can only use so many nutrients, and once they’ve met their quota, they will not absorb any more.

The other problem with excess fertilizer involves water quality.

When you apply excess fertilizer to your plants, the leftover fertilizer will either be leached into the soil and out of reach of plant roots or will wash away with the next rain storm. Fertilizer that washes away from your yard is often carried to a storm drain or drainage ditch. This excess fertilizer causes algal blooms which are unpleasing to the eye but also harmful to marine life. Algal blooms take the oxygen out of the water and lead to fish kills. So, make sure you test your soil before

applying fertilizer to protect your wallet and the environment.

Next time you see soil and think that four-letter word, dirt, remember that every drink of water you have had that day and every bite of food has been touched at one time or another by soil. Plants require nutrients to grow and produce. A lot of emphasis is put on nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, but these are not the only nutrients plants need. A soil test will help improve your garden by determining the soil pH, levels of nutrients, and it will recommend amounts of fertilizer and lime needed to maximize your production.

Remember: Don’t guess, soil test.

Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.

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Wedded bliss

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had practiced for weeks, trying to do justice to Reba’s ballad of undying love, “I’ll Be,” as my brother and his first wife had asked me to sing it at their wedding.

Like many young couples, they had decided on an outdoor wedding on the beach, a small affair of mainly family and a few friends. Naturally, I was nervous; I so much wanted to please the happy couple.

My family rented a house near Surfside for our annual summer vacation, with the culminating event at the end of the week being the wedding. The first thing that happened is that I came down with something a lot like the flu. However, I wouldn’t let being sick keep me from my duty. I would practice for a half an hour on the front deck of the beach house using a small karaoke machine – then I’d have to lie down to recover.

All around me, my family busied themselves with wedding preparations — assembling the garden arch, buying fresh flowers, finishing the refreshments, and such. Finally the long-awaited day arrived. It was to be an afternoon affair.

The tide was cooperative, offering up a wide stretch of beach for our little gathering of witnesses. The arch was positioned at a safe distance from the surf, facing the residences and hotels along the dunes. My father officiated the wedding in his formal black robes. He stood at the center of the arch, facing away from the waves. I stood off a little to the side on his left with my handy karaoke machine nestled safely in the sand in front of me. My baby brother stood between us.

Now, before I describe the bride’s march towards us, I need you to picture the beach in late June at 5 in the afternoon. It was hot, and it was windy. We didn’t let the weather steer us from our course, though.

As my future sister-in-law made her way toward us through the broken shells and such, left by the receding tide, tears welled in her eyes, partly from emotion, but mostly from salt and sand.

But I couldn’t really tell because the wind was blowing so fiercely by this time, my hair was whipping around my face furiously, making it difficult for me to see her. She took her place by my brother’s side, and my father’s lips began to move. I could see that he was speaking, but I couldn’t hear a word.

When it was my time to sing, my father gave a nod in my direction, and I began to sing. At least I think I sang; I couldn’t hear a lick. I finished. My brother and his wife declared their vows. My father pronounced them. And the crowd of onlookers — invited guests and hotel balcony onlookers, alike — hooted, hollered and clapped. Since the wind had carried all of the sound to them, they had been able to hear it all. Ironically, those of us who were actually a part of the ceremony had heard nearly nothing.

Unfortunately, the bride and groom saw only a few years of wedded

FREEDOM CELEBRATION

bliss. The good thing that came out of their marriage and divorce was that my brother learned from his mistakes and figured out how to really do a beach wedding. With wife No. 2, they moved the wedding date to May (cooler), kept the time of day (late afternoon), but instead of being on the beach (wind and sand), they used a gallerytype area of a local hotel in Myrtle Beach for which the Atlantic was the backdrop. This time, weather was not an issue. I didn’t get sick and I didn’t have to sing. There were no problems at all, and they got hitched – without a hitch.

When planning an outdoor wedding, weather is obviously the biggest factor to keep in mind. However, there are other things to consider, too. For one thing, give your guests a place to sit. High heels and grass do not go together. Few things are more irksome than trying to take a step forward and stepping out of your shoe because its heel is stuck in the ground, or worse, lurching forward and falling because your foot stays in the shoe. So give your guests chairs or artificial turf or both. Also, always have a plan B — alternate locales, tents or coordinating umbrellas for your guests as wedding favors.

I wouldn’t say that I’m against outdoor weddings, for they can be wonderful occasions. As a little girl, I used to daydream about getting married someday in my Granny’s backyard under her massive live oaks. I suppose I wasn’t as brave as my brother because I relied on the indoor safety of the church. Of course, even then, there are things you can’t control. In 2004, my husband and I opted for a September wedding. My father officiated my wedding, too. My family, especially my mom, did everything. Well, almost everything. We had forgotten to pour the grape juice (good Baptists) into the Communion cups ahead of time. My husband and I realized this and simply pretended to drink and struggled not to laugh when the time came.

We also had an uninvited guest: Hurricane Ivan.

His family was driving from Illinois to our wedding in South Carolina using Interstate 40, crossing “The Gorge” at the time when Ivan swung through the Southeast. I was unaware just what they had been through until after the wedding and reception were over.

They described to us seeing the side of the interstate simply slide off into the river below. Our honeymoon was in Gatlinburg, so we got to see the damage on our drive up. We were so thankful that his family arrived safely.

As the weather warms up, wedding season will move into high gear. Whether you are planning a small church wedding or a massive garden affair, bear in mind to take it all in stride. Do plan. Plan not just from your own perspective, but imagine yourself as your own guest. I have found that being gracious and compassionate go a long way. Above all, realize that it’s best to take it all — whatever happens — with a grain of salt (or sand) and a smile.

The American Pontoon Company

at the Sumter, SC Farmers Home Furniture

PRESENT YOUR MILITARY ID AND RECEIVE

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ANY FURNITURE OR BEDDING PURCHASE

Farmers Home Furniture salutes our Armed Forces.

To show our appreciation, we are giving you 15% Off any furniture or bedding purchase with your Military Identification!

VALID THROUGH MAR. 31, 2014

WE SALUTE YOU!

12

207 Broad Street • Sumter, South Carolina • 803.773.8214 Call 1-800-456-0424 or Visit Us Online at Mon www.FarmersHomeFurniture.com N ths I nterO for the store nearest you! est!

Hurry! Sale Ends March 31!

*Subject to credit approval and a minimal credit rating score. A minimum down payment equal to sales tax is required. Minimum $699 purchase is required. Finance charges and optional insurance charges will accrue from date of purchase, but finance charges will be rebated if the amount financed and any earned insurance charges are paid in full within 12 months of the purchase date. Buyer will not be eligible for finance charge rebate if any monthly payment is over 30 days late. Finance charges will vary by state. With approved credit. Terms and discounts do not apply to prior purchases and are off Everyday Low prices. Excludes appliances, electronics, lawn equipment and iComfort® Sleep Systems by Serta®. All items in limited quantity and subject to prior sale. Allow up to 8 weeks for special orders. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. See store for full details. Descriptive, typographical or pictorial errors are subject to correction.

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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 43

Letter to

the Bride

by Misty Ureche: Licensed aesthetician, advanced body wrap professional and co-owner of Spa Serenity; and Denise Bethea: Licensed aesthetician, certified professional makeup artist, certified photographer and co-owner of Spa Serenity As we all know, a bride’s wedding day is filled with many different emotions. The excitement, anticipation and stress can be overwhelming.

There are many ways to de-stress that will help you look and feel your best for the big day. One of the best and most popular ways is to have a spa day just before the wedding, possibly as a substitution for your bridal shower.

A day at the spa is more than simply fun; it’s a great way to relax and rejuvenate yourself. We all know: A beautiful, relaxed bride makes a happy bride.

It’s also very important to remember that the months and weeks leading up to the wedding are essential for addressing any skin or

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body concerns. As licensed aestheticians, we can improve or correct any cosmetic issue you might have. We will provide you with resultoriented monthly facials and advanced treatments along with our five-star aesthetics massage for relaxation. We’ll also go over treatment protocols for at-home use with you, as this is a must to keep your skin flawless.

Along with skin concerns come the body concerns, and we provide many body treatments. Our most popular is our detoxifying, slimming and contouring wrap, which involves a series of treatments and at-home protocols. This wrap will definitely help you achieve that perfect wedding gown fit.

Our experienced nail technician knows all too well the importance

of manicures and pedicures and can give your hands that perfect look to complement that beautiful new ring – and sexy-soft feet are always a plus.

Body waxing is an effective way to remove any unwanted hair, and let’s face it: Who wants to worry about shaving on their honeymoon?

A must-have waxing option is our eyebrow wax and sculpting.

When it comes to the face, the eyes are the first thing people notice.

It’s important the eyebrows look as perfect as possible, as they can elegantly accentuate your makeup applications.

Whether you’re the bride, the mother of the bride, a bridesmaid or a guest, it’s imperative you know how to get that perfect wedding day look. Everyone wants a flawless face for their wedding day. Chances are there will be more pictures taken of you on this day than any other day of your life. The key is looking as beautiful as you can – without even trying.

As a seasoned makeup artist, trained and certified by Hollywood makeup artist Dina Ousley, I have extensive knowledge in the realm of cosmetics.

In my earlier years, I owned a glamour photography business for more than 15 years. This amazing experience took me many places, performing makeovers on thousands of women. My interest in photography grew, and after being certified in photography, I began to enjoy wedding photography, but my desire to help women achieve that perfect allure did not end there. I am now a licensed aesthetician, specializing in advanced skin-care techniques and a co-owner of Spa Serenity in Manning.

Keep in mind, ladies, that photography – especially flash photography – tends to flatten features and exaggerate the things you don’t like about your face. It’s wise to find a professional and work with him or her on the look you want.

I would suggest you ask your artist for a trial run. Don’t let the artist apply anything too shiny on your brow bone, as it acts like a mirror

when the flash goes off. Be sure to avoid lip colors that excessively contrast your skin tone. The camera has a hard time adjusting for contrast, and the results can appear muddy.

Depending on the bride’s skin type, you want to aim for a more radiant finish if you have drier skin or a matte finish if your skin tends to be more oily. The most important part of wedding photography is the skin’s finish. Wear a little more blush than you think you should, because that’s usually the first thing to go, other than lip color.

As a photographer, the last thing I want to see on a bride is shine.

When the skin is shiny, you lose the true features of the face. To control this problem, I suggest using Absence Oil Control primer by Jane Iredale. This product will help with the longevity of your makeup and help control oil and shine; it also evens out skin texture and creates a radiant finish.

Speaking of lips, I would suggest you choose a lip liner one shade darker than your natural lip tone, particularly in the beige family.

Filling in the whole lip area before applying color or gloss can extend your coverage. My personal favorite lip color product is Lip Fixation

by Jane Iredale. It’s a lip stain that will last all day, through kisses and conversations, with very little touching up needed. It’s great for photography and can be worn with or without gloss.

The one general rule a bride must remember is that if you’re wearing a white gown, pinks or lilacs in your makeup will look the most flattering. If you’re in an off-white gown, peaches and apricots are the colors for you.

As licensed aestheticians, makeup artists and spa owners, we at Spa Serenity are dedicated to making your special day even better, whether it’s just for the bride or a full wedding party.

We can arrange a spa day that will leave you looking and feeling your very best.

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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 45

Begin the new year

in a new home

After flatlining during the economic downturn that began about 2008, housing markets in many regions of the United States and Canada have shown signs of recovery. Those in the market to buy and sell may find this year presents an ideal opportunity to do just that.

According to the real estate listing Web site Zillow, home values rose 5.1 percent across the United States between February 2012 and February 2013. The latest forecasts from Canada Mortage and Housing Corp. indicate a strong housing demand into 2014, at which time a strengthened economy will energize both resale and new housing markets.

Buyers will need to be prepared to purchase inventory right away, while sellers will need to price their homes right for the best chance of sale. The following are some guidelines.

BUYERS Having a plan is essential when buying a home, as such a purchase is not something buyers should take lightly. Establishing a budget is the first step. This means taking inventory of savings, expenses and borrowing power. It is adviseable to sit down with a lender and do a run-through of what you can afford. By providing key financial information, including earning statements, existing debt and credit history, buyers can quickly learn how much they’re qualified to borrow and how much they are comfortable borrowing. This helps buyers zero in on homes in their price range.

Being preapproved for a mortgage is advantageous when it comes time to make offers on properties. It shows sellers that buyers are serious and that they have been vetted by the bank.

Many buyers conduct a lot of research online prior to stepping into a home. This research lasts an average of six to eight weeks, according to the National Association of Realtors. Homework includes investigating neighborhoods and school systems and comparing the going rates of homes in the area, as well as figuring out which features are desired in a home.

It also is important to hire a buyer’s agent. Such professionals send buyers listings that fit their home-search parameters, which saves buyers a lot of time and effort. Some agents preview homes for their buyers, even going so far as to identify overpriced listings that can be avoided or finding sellers who are willing to negotiate.

A buyer’s agent works for the buyer, meaning there will be no

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SELLERS Sellers competing for business in a thriving housing market also have to do their share of work. It is unlikely sellers will be able to list their homes for sale one day and have dozens of offers the next.

Today’s buyers are much more conservative, and homes will have to be presented in the best light and listed at reasonable prices.

Sellers can start the process of selling their homes by researching recently sold homes in their neighborhoods, paying particular attention to final sales prices. This information may be available through tax records, and some real estate sites publish the data online. Sellers can then compare this information to what they still owe on their mortgages if their homes are not paid off, and this should give sellers an idea of their potential profits.

Sellers also can benefit from working with real estate agents, as it can be quite difficult and stressful for homeowners to sell their homes on their own. Agents have access to multiple listing databases and industry contacts, information that is quite valuable when selling a home. Agents will do their own assessments of a home to help sellers price the home accordingly based on market conditions. In addition, real estate agents can inform sellers about which, if any, repairs or changes may need to be made to make a home more attractive to prospective buyers. Real estate agents also help sellers through the negotiating process, finding a balance between what the buyer wants to pay and how much the seller wants for the home.

Housing markets are once again looking up. As the new year arrives, many people may find now is the time to find their next homes. Understanding the process and getting guidance from real estate professionals makes the process of buying and selling a home that much easier.

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conflict of interest. Agents assist buyers in the negotiating process, using their knowledge of the real estate market to help buyers make realistic offers that are likely to be accepted while providing a wealth of information about housing trends, area services and home improvement vendors.

When sellers accept buyers’ offers, buyers must then arrange home inspections. An inspection is oftentimes included as a contract contingency, and buyers have a right to cancel contracts if inspections find that a home is unsatisfactory structurally.

Jimmy Mathis

803-460-5420 OR 803-478-5957 SALES & SERVICE ON ALL BRANDS 46 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE

www.deelakerentals.com 326 South Mill St. • Manning, SC

803-433-7355

20 Years Property Manager Experience

DEE OSTEEN

life &leisure TO LIST YOUR BUSINESS ON THIS PAGE CALL 803.435.4716 OR 803.464.1157

Equity Homes

SC’s Largest Retailer of Used Mobile Homes

SINGLEWIDES: $10K-$26K DOUBLEWIDES: $16K-$55K www.equityhomes.shutterfly.com Office: 843.821.6441 10097 Hwy. 78 Fax: 843.821.6550 Ladson, SC 29456

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E-Z IN & OUT Care NEW OWNERSHIP C a r Off Exit 108 on Hwy 15/301 Roadside Service • 24-hour Towing • Technician On Duty • Brakes • Mufflers Exhaust • Tune-Ups • Computer Diagnostics • High-Speed Balance • Alignments ATV Repair • RV Tires • 18-Wheeler Tires (New & Used) Used Tires $15 + Mount • Used Batteries $30 • Oil Change $18.95 • Penzoil $36 We Pay Top Dollar for Junk Cars • We Do All Types of Mechanical Work

56 S. Church St. Summerton | 803/485/8118 FEBRUARY - MARCH 2014 | LAKESIDE 47

Sweet Heart

DEALS

Discount Furniture Outlet has all the new looks for 2014.

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2891 Broad Street | Sumter, SC 29150 | 803-469-8733 Open: Mon-Fri: 9:30am-7pm | Sat: 9:30am-5pm | Closed Sunday

48 FEBRUARY - MARCHCREDIT 2014 | LAKESIDE CASH, CHECK, CARDS & FINANCING ARE AVAILABLE. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. -LAYAWAY AVAILABLE-