Mr. Flaps robbed at gunpoint

Mr. Flaps robbed at gunpoint Read More

Man shot in the head on Interstate 26, lives

A bullet grazed a man's head as he and two others drove home early this morning, North Charleston police said. The 24-year-old man was transported to Medical University Hospital. Read More

Pioneer Boats nixes move to Ga. to relocate to Walterboro

A Dorchester County recreational boat maker is motoring its manufacturing operations over to Colleton County after nixing a planned relocation to Georgia. Read More

Man killed in club

4th homicide in Hanahan

4th homicide in Hanahan Read More

The year that was 2007

The past 12 months were a turbulent time for the Charleston economy, as its balance sheet was buffeted by both uplifting and treacherous winds of change. Read More

Finding a lesson in local tragedy

Experts hope fire departments around the nation will learn from sofa store deaths

Charleston's deadly Sofa Super Store blaze already is one of the most studied fires in recent history, and experts hope its lessons will help reverse a steady parade of firefighter deaths across the nation.

Despite improvements in training, equipment and tactics, about 100 firefighters die on duty each year in the United States.
Read More

Pushing the limit in '08

Center boosts young athletes' performance

Walk into Velocity Sports Performance as a grown adult and you may think how much the world has changed since you were a kid. Read More

'We do have a strong voice'

Black female officials tackle social issues

The influence of the state's black women in elected office has been called a sleeping giant that will prove to be a powerful force in conquering social ills.

Together the women have put forth a statewide action plan to address health care, economic development and educational issues, and staked out a strategy for leveraging their influence.

Read More

Coming up

This week The Concerned Citizens of the Sea Islands and the Coastal Conservation League will host an open design charrettes this week on the proposed Mark Clark Expressway extension. The groups have partnered with Glatting Jackson Kercher Anglin, an Orlando, Fla.-bas... Read More

New Year's schedule

Soldier recalls best, worst times of past year of deployment

I realize there were far more opportunities for lows than highs this past year. But whether it was sheer luck or the experience gained from previous deployments and our constant training, the worst of the two was prevented from transpiring. Read More

Taking yoga time off is OK

Sometimes, a yogi wakes up, puts her yoga mat by the door, gets dressed, drinks her decaf chai and then realizes she really doesn't feel like going to yoga class. So she stays home that day, maybe goes for a bike ride or a long walk, and the mat stays by the door. Read More

2 men killed as cars crash

Wrecks claim lives in Cross, on Johns Is.

Wrecks claim lives in Cross, on Johns Is. Read More

Faceoff: As a bowl site, Atlanta is...

For Clemson and Auburn football fans there are two big positives to playing in tonight's Chick-fil-A Bowl - it's only a day's drive by pickup truck and the game will be played indoors, complete with plumbing. Read More

Running backs are getting frustrated as Clemson turns to the air inside the 20 more often

Red Zone Shift

The frustration boiled over for Clemson's two most electrifying players on Nov. 24 at South Carolina. Read More

Cold smoking-ban comfort

Potentially fatal long-term medical risks remain smoking's No. 1 drawback. But smokers increasingly encounter the much more immediate challenge of having to do their puffing outside. And while smokers in Lowcountry communities that have prohibited smoking in workplaces, including bars and restaurants, often experience discomfort from the elements, smokers in Anchorage, Alaska, now face a far more chilling fate. Read More

Executive Items

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Giving 3 weeks' notice earned one employee instant job loss

Q: I was a salaried employee for a small company, usually working 24 hours a week. When I found and accepted a better job, I gave three weeks' notice, which I thought was the ethical and responsible thing to do. My employer apparently felt differently, because I was terminated the same day. <... Read More

Exercise helps COPD patients

Therapy can ease symptoms

Q: I was recently diagnosed with emphysema. My inhalers are helping, but I still get winded when I walk. Do you think that a rehab or exercise program would help me? A: Doctors used to think that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the medical name for emphysema and ch... Read More

Reporter turns firefighter

Sancic uses personal experience to tell others how to stay safe

Before Bianca Sancic became a firefighter, she worked as a newspaper reporter. Then her house burned down.

That was August 1999. By New Year's Eve of that year, she was a volunteer firefighter with a purpose: teaching basic but valuable lessons that could save lives.
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Today's Games

Cougars suffocate Dukes

On any given night, any one of seven or eight players are capable of stepping up offensively for the College of Charleston basketball team, but offense wasn't the issue Sunday night at John Kresse Arena.

The Cougars stepped up collectively on defense, and suffocated high-scoring James Madison 76-53 in the championship game of the Jim N' Nick's Holiday Classic.
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Chick-fil-A Bowl: Head-to-Head

Clemson Bowl History

V is now BlueFish

Huckabee calls Romney dishonest 4 days before Iowa caucus

Mike Huckabee called Mitt Romney a dishonest politician who couldn't be trusted with the presidency, turning up the heat Sunday in a close-and-getting-closer Republican race in Iowa. Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Unsung heroes of public health

As the Nobel Peace Prize Committee scans the horizon for its next nominee, it should consider how the extraordinary worldwide effort by scientists and public health workers of many nations to reduce human deaths from the most dangerous infectious diseases is beginning to pay off. Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Good Cheer breaks record, brings in almost $33,000 more than last year

With the close of 2007, the Good Cheer Fund celebrates the most remarkable year of charitable giving in its history. A total of $368,763.87 in contributions was raised in the 2007 campaign, surpassing last year's total by $32,602.58. Read More

Clemson optimistic about next season

ATLANTA — "We're back!" Four years ago, Clemson's players shouted that message after closing the 2003 season with a 27-14 smacking of Tennessee in the Peach Bowl. The Tigers were back, all right — back to mediocrity. This time, ninth-year coach Tommy BowdenRead More

Austin as workout guru like the Energizer Bunny

After more than two decades on TV and with 64 exercise videos and DVDs under her belt, Denise Austin is still cajoling Americans to get fit with the unflagging zeal of an Energizer Bunny — a fact not lost on the folks at Energizer, who were so impressed with the similarity the battery-maker... Read More

Women make up 42 percent of state's prison security

COLUMBIA — South Carolina's prisons are hiring more women every year, and now women account for 42 percent of the state's prison security force. State Corrections Department officials say they can only take so many women because prison rules require officers of the same gender as inm... Read More

Dr. Ann to go live

Washington, Tennessee grab final playoff spots

The Washington Redskins had to play all out in their final game and the New York Giants chose to play that way. Their opponents, Seattle and Tampa Bay, eased their way into the playoffs. So the wild card round in the NFC next week may be a test of whether it's better to have momentum or be... Read More

Finding a lesson in local tragedy

Experts hope fire departments around the nation will learn from sofa store deaths

Charleston's deadly Sofa Super Store blaze already is one of the most studied fires in recent history, and experts hope its lessons will help reverse a steady parade of firefighter deaths across the nation. Despite improvements in training, equipment and tactics, about 100 firefighters die... Read More

Noisette project a top green neighborhood

A local development has won national recognition as an environmentally friendly neighborhood, but don't plan on moving there anytime soon. Officials from the Noisette Co. project, which could turn much of the rundown former Charleston NavalRead More

Is boss skimming cash from bartender?

Q: I am a bartender and have worked in the same place for 20 years. My employer refuses to let me count out my register at the end of my shift. Yet when I come to work the next day, he routinely informs me that my register was short and requires me to pay the difference. I have no way of knowing ... Read More

State home sales take double-digit nosedive

In November, most real estate markets across the state mirrored what happened in Charleston. Two-thirds of the state's multiple listing service areas recorded double-digit sales declines that month, including Charleston's 18 percent fall. Overall, South Carolina home sales fell 14 percent ... Read More

Distinctions

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New Year's resolution solution

Sign up now for area training clinics to ready for Bridge Run, Flowertown

The Cooper River Bridge Run is more than one of the biggest road races in the United States. People from all walks of life can credit it for giving them a goal to exercise and eat right. Some have even gone on to participate in marathons, 100-mile "century" rides and Ironman triathlons. Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Cream of the crop

Prisoners fight addictions in jail

Faith-based programs helping

COLUMBIA — In and out of prison for the past 30 years, Brian Shores had all but given up hope that he'd ever have a life without crime. His temper, coupled with a dependency on alcohol and drugs, landed the Aiken County man in prison time and again, most recently for aggravated assault and ... Read More

Week in Review

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Calendar

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Deaths Summary

Inns, restaurants inspired by homes impress AAA

In the hotel and restaurant business, a diamond often makes all the difference. So when AAA — the travel club formerly known as the American Automobile Association — revised the standards for its coveted diamond awards earlier this month for th... Read More

Stingrays win their 11th straight

It was hard to tell what was more important to the South Carolina Stingrays after their 3-2 victory over Gwinnett - winning for a franchise-record 11th straight time or finally beating the Gladiators for the first time in more than a year. Read More

Recalls this week

Product recalls announced last week. Details are available at www.cpsc.gov and other sites as listed. Read More

Panthers top Bucs to end season on winning note

Panthers 31, Buccaneers 23 TAMPA, Fla. — Jon Gruden bristled at the suggestion that he may have set his Tampa Bay Buccaneers up for failure in the playoffs by taking a cautious approach to the last two weeks of the regular season. The Bucs (9-7) dropped their f... Read More

Deaths and Funerals

'We do have a strong voice'

Black female officials tackle social issues

COLUMBIA — The influence of the state's black women in elected office has been called a sleeping giant that will prove to be a powerful force in conquering social ills. Together, the women have put forth a statewide action plan to address health care, economic development and educati... Read More

Test your knowledge of '07 pop culture

Among the worst, unless you're a captive penguin

Winnie The Pooh wouldn't complain as much about blustery days if he spent a bowl week in Atlanta. It was rainy and dreary Sunday, and that's the good news. Read More

Former Troy coordinator taking the reins of Auburn's offense

Trojan Attack

Tony Franklin enjoys playing the Mystery Man role, coy from game plan to wink. Read More

Invest in Conservation Bank

U.S. Census Bureau statistics released Thursday report that South Carolina ranked No. 10 among all states in population growth from July 1, 2006, to July 1, 2007, increasing by 1.8 percent (more than 77,000 people) and continuing a long-term upward trend. Read More

2007 was eventful year for retailers

From the launch of the Apple iPhone in June to the mall shooting in Omaha, Neb., in December, 2007 was overflowing with retail headlines. Here's a look at the top stories from each month: --Jan. 30: Windows Vista, Microsoft Corp. 's newest ... Read More

Trip to the library better than dial-up for multimedia

Q: I rely on dial-up Internet access because high-speed home Internet service isn't available. I'd like to download audiobooks or podcasts, but how can I do this with a slow dial-up connection? A: You can usually get high-speed Net access at the public library. You can do a Google search fo... Read More

It's time to get smart about credit

Here's a sobering thought for the start of the new year: CardTrak.com says the average household will accrue nearly $1,600 in credit card debt during the holidays. With the spending season about over for another year, it's time to start thinking about how you're going to p... Read More

Travel Q&amp;A

Modie Risher Classic

Fatter grocery bills expected as food prices increase

DALLAS — For cash-strapped consumers already beset by higher gasoline prices and escalating mortgage rates, the hits just keep on coming. This time, it's food. The sharp rise in food prices seen in 2007 is expected to be followed by another higher-than-normal jump next year, the U.S.... Read More

Sharpening garden tools

Winter is the best time for pruning many trees, shrubs and vines. Here are some tips to get the most mileage from your garden tools: --Take apart tools such as pruning shears, hedge shears and loppers to make their blades more accessible for sharpening. Look at any blade and you'll s... Read More

Avoid seven sins of home renovations

Pride, envy, gluttony, lust, anger, greed and sloth: These are the Seven Deadly Sins. The church has its definitions, and we do, too. Sometimes you do a project yourself and other times you hire someone to do it for you. In each of those instances, you may come up against one of the sins o... Read More

Panthers fall to Gonzaga in Roundball Classic final

The effort was valiant. But in the end, Pinewood Prep wasn't victorious. Read More

Politicians need to think like poets when choosing words

'As a poet not as a citizen there is only one political duty, and that is to defend one's language from corruption. When it's corrupted, people lose faith in what they hear, and this leads to violence." Poet W.H. Auden As we head toward January, the presidential candidates are busier than e... Read More

Presidential politics begin dominating before '07 began

The 2008 race for the White House began in South Carolina before 2007 dawned, and the year saw an unprecedented amount of presidential politicking in the Palmetto State. Here are 10 highlights: EARLY BACKERS: As Democratic contenders pursued the black vote, expected to make... Read More

Story of the Year: Sofa Super Store fire

It started as a routine call. But in a blurry instant on June 18, a small trash fire spiraled into an inferno that claimed the lives of nine Charleston firefighters.
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Real estate transactions

Charleston County The transactions listed below include properties sold for $250,000 or more and recorded Nov. 13-16. Charleston John L. Schrum III sold 150 St. Philip St. to James V. Hargroves and Tricia M. Anson for $285,000. Keith Kel... Read More

'60s-style New Year's Eve party always in vogue

A New Year's Eve party is about ushering out the old, then ringing in the new with a bit of bubbly. Of course, a smart host knows there's no reason to discard a good entertaining idea just because it's from a bygone era. How about an ultra-swanky, retro cocktail party, '60s-style? A ... Read More

Triple queens

Sunday Calendar

True leaders don't run 'job scared'

With friends like each other, do Lindsey Graham and John McCain need political enemies in this state? With so many politicians who pander, don't we need more, like Graham and McCain, who don't? Over the last two years, lots of right-leaning South Carolinians have gotten right riled up... Read More

2008 travel

UPS can keep 'smart' system running

Q I recently added "smart house" computer controls to make my house more efficient. During even a brief power outage, settings are lost. Are there backup power supplies that don't waste electricity? Are big ones better? A: "Smart house" controls run by a personal computer are becoming more ... Read More

Pet calendar

What: Kinderpuppy. Who: Isle of Palms Recreation Department. Where: 28th Avenue, Isle of Palms. When: Weekly, starting at 6:30 p.m. Monday. Details: For puppies 8 weeks to 5 months old, this class costs $90 for Isle of Palms residents and $95 for nonresidents. Puppies ... Read More

Want to talk God, or maybe guitar?

World leaders weigh profound topics, some less so at Renaissance

Some people run into cold water to ring in the New Year, and others dive into five days of panel discussions and workshops on topics including foreign policy, economics, religion and guitar picking. At Charleston Place, the 27th annual Renaissance Weekend is under way. This invitation-only... Read More

Look, learn, prepare to be amazed

AMAZING RARE THINGS: The Art of Natural History in the Age of Discovery. By David Attenborough, Susan Owens, Martin Clayton and Rea Alexandratos. Yale University Press. 224 pages. $37.50. Amazing is right. At first, second and third look, sheer fascination w... Read More

Virginia bursting with wineries

Nestled in rolling, verdant country just east of the Shenandoah Valley, Barboursville Vineyards owns a picturesque setting that the increasingly congested Napa Valley might envy. Read More

Clemson defense offers sneak preview for 2008

ATLANTA — Monday's Chick-fil-A Bowl against Auburn is being billed as a preview of 2008 for Clemson's defense. Everyone who takes the field — that's first string, second string and third string — will have eligibility remaining. Given that this year's group finished sixth... Read More

PBS celebrating TV pioneers

All the conventions we take for granted on television today — from the formalized game show to the monologue on the talk show — were begun by a group of innovators who had no idea they were setting precedents. People such as Dick Cavett, Jackie Gleason, Phyllis Diller, Johnny C... Read More

Tigers turn back Samford

No. 21 Clemson 78, Samford 45 CLEMSON — K.C. Rivers took his grandmother's words to heart — and Samford paid the price. Rivers scored 16 points to lead No. 21 Clemson to a 78-45 rout of Samford on Saturday. The Tigers' perfect start ended last week... Read More

Cheese biscuits are Folly flashback

The mail brought a surprise recently, like receiving a long-lost letter. Read More

Miller gets first win since split with U.S.

At A Glance BORMIO, Italy — Bode Miller has had a rough time since splitting from the U.S. Ski Team. His breakthrough came Saturday — his first victory of the season and on one of the toughest World Cup downhill courses. He put down a nearly perfect run a... Read More

Goose Creek captures Modie Risher Classic title

Goose Creek 47, Burke 32 The Goose Creek Gators committed 25 turnovers. They lost two of their best rebounders to foul trouble early in the first half. And, their opponents, with a home crowd backing them, took an early 8-2 lead and were threatening to run the Gators off th... Read More

Sweet 16: Patriots go undefeated

Patriots 38, Giants 35 EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — With one mighty heave, Tom Brady and Randy Moss took care of the record books. Now it's down to business for the unbeaten New England Patriots: stamping themselves as the greatest team in NFL history. The Patriots... Read More

Americans may stay near home

Travel in 2007 was marked by high gas prices, new passport rules, record lows for the dollar and record-high air travel. Read More

Delicate grays, 'green' recycling among the trends for 2008

It's time to peek into the looking glass and see what's hot for the coming year. Global decorating is indeed with us, which allows for a tremendous variety of styles and accessories. You will notice a shift in attention from black to gray, both on its own and also as a balancing color. Read More

Pet Briefs

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'I just pray that he'll come back'

Dozens of airmen and their families crowded a stuffy passenger terminal Saturday at Charleston Air Force Base, savoring every moment they could before the 17th Airlift Squadron was deployed overseas. Read More

Best New Year's can be found on DVD

Spend New Year's Eve this year by watching movies of other people celebrating New Year's Eve. Here are a few suggestions: --"The Godfather, Part II" (1974): Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) is watching a nightclub floor show on New Year's Eve when he realizes that it was his ow... Read More

Remembering Lt. Gen. Henry Doctor Jr.

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Retired minister goes out of his way to help other seniors

No one would fault the Rev. Dick Giffen for slowing down as he closes in on 80. Instead, he volunteers to help other seniors who don't have as much mobility as he does. Read More

Plan a perfect garden path with some handy guidelines

WASHINGTON — Designing the right path on your property can enhance your experience in the garden and even help plants flourish. The design of a path influences the efficiency with which people can circulate. Install serpentine or meandering paths in areas where you want to adm... Read More

Sampson and Smokey dress up for the holidays

Sampson and Smokey enjoyed getting into the holiday spirit. Read More

Garden calendar

Clear the air on S.C. State

Outgoing S.C. State University President Andrew Hugine has some friends in high political places who make no bones about trying to use their muscle to save his job. But the decision on whether the head of a state educational institution stays or goes belongs with the board of trustees. It's the d... Read More

2 a.m. law: Now they mean it

Starting Wednesday, North. Charleston police to begin enforcing new closing hours at bars

Bars in North Charleston can enjoy one final day of holiday revelry Monday night without being fined for being open past 2 a.m. Read More

2007 was quite a year for golf in the Lowcountry

The past year is one Lowcountry golf fans won't soon forget, one filled with memorable stories on all levels. Here's a quick look back at golf in 2007. --Six years after being a member of the Hooters Tour, 31-year-old Zach Johnson pulled one of the biggest shockers around when he won the M... Read More

Hammond's 21-point second half lifts Cougars over Mercer

'He put on a show'

In the wake of the College of Charleston's basketball youth movement, junior guard Marcus Hammond served notice Saturday night that the Cougars have some veterans they can rely on as well.

Hammond scored a career-high 23 points - 21 in the second half - to lead Charleston past Mercer 84-74 in the first round of the Jim N' Nick's Cougar Classic at John Kresse Arena.
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Mirror images and vice versa

ATLANTA — The last time Clemson and Auburn met in the Georgia Dome, Bowden won and Tommy lost. Clemson football fans hope the same thing happens in the Chick-fil-A Bowl on New Year's Eve. In other words, the exact opposite of what took place in the Peach Bowl on Jan. 2, 1998, when Te... Read More

Taking a break from politics

S.C. gets breather as campaigns focus on Iowa

When former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee's plane ran late during an early December campaign stop in North Charleston, the Holiday Inn staff had to scramble through a crowd of his lingering supporters to remake the conference room for an office Christmas party set to start just a few minutes later. Read More

Festival will stage 45 productions, 140 performances

Launching its 32nd season with the celebration of a $6 million renovation of Memminger Auditorium, the 2008 Spoleto Festival USA will stage the largest number of productions since its founding in 1977. Read More

The sports hero you never knew

CLEMSON — He was bald, bearded and bespectacled, the most unlikely sports hero you never heard of. But that's exactly how Harold Vigodsky will be remembered by folks here in the Clemson athletic department. His rise to unsung stardom started some 30 years ago when he quietly, politel... Read More

Deaths and Funerals

January Arts Calendar

Book points to paralyzing partisanship

THE SECOND CIVIL WAR: How Extreme Partisanship has Paralyzed Washington and Polarized America. By Ronald Brownstein. The Penguin Press. 485 pages. $27.95. Ever wonder why so many politicians are running against Washington these days, even the ones who have served ... Read More

Benoit incident marred pro wrestling in '07

The pro wrestling industry will not soon forget 2007. Never before in the history of the business has one story garnered such mainstream attention as the Chris Benoit double murder-suicide in late June. It was a gruesome, grisly tragedy that far transcended professional wrestling, yet its ... Read More

Gardner-Webb cruises past Bucs

Gardner-Webb 105, Charleston Southern 77 Boiling Springs, N.C. — Exactly two weeks after suffering an 80-69 loss to Charleston Southern, Gardner-Webb exacted some revenge Saturday night. Gardner-Webb broke open a close game with a 25-7 first-half run and cruise... Read More

Tennis successes plentiful in 2007

A bunch of national championships and a few world titles. Charleston tennis has never been more successful than in 2007. The year's success stories once again were led by world champions Diane Fishburne and Brenda Carter, but league tennis and high schools fared well, too. And don't... Read More

Homophones make writers go 'a rye'

Every language has its pitfalls, but often it seems that English has more than its share. So many of our words sound alike! So many opportunities arise for phonic error! Let us turn to the homophone file, and together let us weep. Thus we roll back the clock to Super Bowl XXXII and a sport... Read More

A look back: The top stories of 2007

It was a year full of issues, controversies, successes, arguments, politics and celebrations.

A lot happened. And the year gave us much to think about: The growing numbers of Protestant Latinos, the nature of Christian schism, what it means to be a person of faith and gay, how we should interpret the First Amendment's Establishment Clause, what the faith community can do about the corrosive effects of poverty, the significance of our historic churches, and the meaning of tradition and change.
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Uranium exploration under way in Africa

LUSAKA, Zambia — Resurgent global interest in nuclear power has made Zambia, a southern African nation better known for its vast copper reserves, into a hotbed of uranium exploration. The activity is part of a larger wave of uranium exploration and mining across the mineral-rich reg... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Win a house, or two

Home & Garden Television is well-known for its Dream Home Giveaway, and in 2008 the network also is planning its first Green Home Giveaway — and that home is in Hilton Head. From March 21 to May 9, viewers can enter to win the Green Home, located in Trad... Read More

Spence will remain at Clemson

ATLANTA — For more than a week, Rob Spence kept almost everyone in the dark concerning his flirtation with Tennessee. Spence didn't offer his fellow assistant coaches any details before or after he interviewed with Volunteers coach Phillip Fulmer. He didn't apprise quarterback Culle... Read More

Give president more budget power

The recent omnibus and defense appropriations bills passed by Congress clearly demonstrate the need for presidential line-item veto authority. So does the president's pocket veto of the defense authorization bill. The president said he vetoed that bill Friday because one provision would da... Read More

Early strikes power Rays to 10th straight

Stingrays 5, Checkers 2 CHARLOTTE — Trent Campbell scored two goals and assisted on another to power the South Carolina Stingrays to their franchise-tying 10th straight ECHL win Saturday night, a 5-2 triumph over the Charlotte Checkers. Campbell scored four min... Read More

Copper shows its mettle in new home accents

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Copper Age is upon us. This rustic metal is warming up more and more homes, outshining stainless steel and brushed nickel. It's everywhere — and we're not just talking bright copper kettles. "Copper has always been a traditional accent in ki... Read More

Saving mystery relics helps keep past alive

Sometimes furniture from another era is a mystery. Would you know how to use a 4-foot-high rectangular wooden box with inlay and carvings and a door in the front that flips down? Not unless you are still using a coal stove for heat and keep the extra coal in the box. Would you reali... Read More

There were memorable moments on tube

Marie Osmond hit the deck. Isaiah Washington mouthed off. Ellen DeGeneres cried. And Sanjaya Malakar wowed us with his hair (but not his singing). It was another bizarre year in TV. Here, we relive some of 2007's memorable moments: --Classiest Departure: Jorga Fox's Sara Si... Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Almost New Year's Why do we celebrate the beginning of a new year? You'd think that humans, fearing death, would shrink from the future and its tendency to age us. But we don't. We like beginnings, we like facing forward. Living on islands and peninsu... Read More

Remodeling kitchens popular after holidays

Think about how much time you've spent in your kitchen in the past weeks. What other time of year does the kitchen get as much use as most of us give it during the period from Thanksgiving through New Year's? It's probably no coincidence that most kitchen remodels begin as soon as the holid... Read More

Bitterweed stands up to drought

I've always been a pushover for daisies. So when I discovered a patch of bitterweed (Helenium amarum) growing near U.S. Highway 17 and Oak Forest Drive and Farmfield Avenue in West Ashley about a month ago, I had to take a closer look. Read More

Ancient Rome, Israel clash in well-written history

ROME AND JERUSALEM: The Clash of Ancient Civilizations. By Martin Goodman. Knopf. 598 pages. $35. In July of the year 70, at the climax of the Roman army's campaign to crush a four-year rebellion and reoccupy Jerusalem, the great temple of Jahweh caught fire and b... Read More

Twining vine known to put on show

The word "pod" is an old term that has a rather obscure origin, generally referring to something that contains something else. It's commonly used to describe anything in the plant kingdom that contains seeds. In general, "pod" seems to be most commonly used for a fruit that is dry at matur... Read More

Trotter adapts to role as backup

TAMPA, Fla. — Jeremiah Trotter sounded like a rookie relishing a rare opportunity to get onto the field rather than a four-time Pro Bowl selection who was once one of the top linebackers in the NFL. The 10th-year pro figures to get plenty of playing time today when the Tampa Bay Bucc... Read More

'Crazy Horse' grant

Deaths Summary

Fed interest cuts don't mean lower mortgage rates

During his 19 years as a real estate agent, Fudgy Brabham, owner and broker-in-charge of Harbourtowne Real Estate in Mount Pleasant, has seen market trends come and go.

But one constant during that time has been a common misconception among some homebuyers that when "the Fed" tinkers with the interest rate, as it has done three times this year, mortgage rates will follow suit.
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Gadgets lift Ford Focus beyond its means

While improved, American version unoriginal

Whether you've been bad or good, I can tell you what you didn't get this Christmas: a new Focus from Ford's European workshop. Read More

Sales soaring despite turbulence for stocks

Art is hot. Despite turmoil in the financial markets, there are no signs that the art market is softening.

The fall auction season in New York saw robust prices across most categories, with postwar and contemporary works especially going through the roof. It seemed like a record was being shattered every time an art auction was held.
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Truly terrible TV makes the list

The holidays, the end of the year, the eggnog and all those general nice feelings in the air, they call for one of the grand traditions of American culture: Top 10 lists. Read More

Celebrating Bernstein

More grunt work, less intrigue

CREATION IN DEATH. By J.D. Robb. Putnam. 337 pages. $25.95. Nine years ago, they didn't catch the bad guy. Now, in the spring of 2060, The Groom is back in New York, documenting the length of time each young brunette holds up to torture before he slits her wrists, ... Read More

Restoring artifacts from the H.L. Hunley is a slow, exacting process

Making progress

Leave something buried in muddy silt and saltwater for a century or so and it's bound to take the shine off of it. Read More

Author 'pushes the boundaries'

In writing as in filmmaking, novelist Nick Smith wants "to push the way words work," to wring from them all their possibilities and permutations. "It pushes me as a writer when I try to challenge the reader a bit, because I'm also challenging myself to try different things," says the Charl... Read More

This week's meetings

BRIEFLY2

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News flash

A princess ponders her place — and a presidential presentation ... Read More

Safety tips for New Year's Eve

Happy New Year! To help you as motorists, the following survival hints are offered. These tips have been acquired over the years from experience and from the printed word of experts in the field. Keep in mind, driving is a full-time job. --The most dangerous times on the road ... Read More

McElveen adds Hyundai

From displaying an "Autograph Mobile" to cooking hamburgers on the grill, the McElveen Hyundai staff came out Dec. 22 to show there's an upbeat atmosphere at the West Ashley dealership, which has undergone two ownership changes since 2005. Read More

Speed and need

The Carolina Open Classic marked one of the busiest car cruising years in the Charleston area

Once upon a time, the Charleston area tourism business was seasonal. Gradually, the visitor trade added events and the city became popular enough for vacationers most any time of year. Read More

Give Berkeley strong tree protections

Grand trees are being lost to clear-cutting developers in Berkeley County, diminishing the county's character and residents' quality of life. County Council should be applauded for taking the first steps toward broad protections for trees and encouraged to make the ordinance as strong as possible. ... Read More

Jeremy Sisto, Alicia Witt to step into new 'L&amp;O' roles

LOS ANGELES — No franchise has seen as much change in cast as the "Law & Order" programs. That starts with the original "Law & Order" and continues through "Law & Order: SVU" and "Law & Order: Criminal Intent." And the changes continue. Fans of "SVU" were greeted to the addition of Adam Beach when new episodes launched in September. ... Read More

Spence likely to stay at Clemson

Atlanta — Monday's Chick-fil-A Bowl probably won't be Rob Spence's last game with Clemson. As of Friday afternoon, Spence had given Tommy Bowden the impression that he intended to remove his name from consideration at Tennessee. Spence, in his third ... Read More

Asbestos slows demolition of Sofa Super Store

The demolition of the Sofa Super Store, a site that will forever mark the tragedy that shook Charleston in 2007, will not be complete until next year. Read More

MRAP supplier under review

Protected Vehicles Inc. failed to fill Pentagon contract

Protected Vehicles Inc. did not meet its contractual obligations for a multimillion-dollar order to supply armored vehicles to the U.S. military and is the subject of a legal review, the Pentagon said Friday.

Meanwhile, after sending letters last week to its employees stating they no longer had jobs, the company said it plans to make an announcement about its future within the next three days.
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Pinewood Prep bounces Fort, advances to final

Pinewood Prep became the first team from the Lowcountry to reach the Piggly Wiggly Roundball Classic championship game since 1997 with a 70-64 victory over Fort Dorchester on Friday night at West Ashley High School. Read More

Asian flew

White is the color

Protester presses legal fight

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BRIEFCASE

Stocks mixed on report of falling housing sales NEW YORK — Stocks finished an erratic week narrowly mixed Friday after a government report of a steep decline in new home sales stirred concerns that weakness in housing will continue to dog the economy. The Com... Read More

Cody triumphs again at Pinehurst

PINEHURST, N.C. — Austin Cody of North Charleston won the 15-17 age division title in the Donald Ross Junior golf championships at the Pinehurst Resort. The 15-year-old Cody, who won the championship in the 12-14 age division last year, triumphed over 119 other competitors on the Cen... Read More

Big lessons from Big Dig

The first official cost projection for "The Big Dig," a complex highway/tunnel project designed to streamline Interstate 93 motor-vehicle traffic in Boston, was $2.6 billion. That was in 1982. A quarter century later, the actual price tag is $14.8 billion, with about half of that coming from federal taxpayers. ... Read More

Older drivers should look for safety, comfort

Q: I will be 77 years old soon and would like your opinion as to which of the following automobiles you would recommend for someone like me. I love driving, and I drive a stick shift to this very day. For the past eight years, I have driven a Honda Accord coupe. The practical side of me tells me to get a new Honda Civic, while the less-practical side argues for a Mini Cooper, a car that has great appeal to me aesthetically. Incidentally, before I bought the Honda, I drove a Toyota Celica, which I loved. Your input will be much appreciated. Are there cars you would especially recommend for older drivers? Read More

Marshview to harbor Hunley Waters community

Another former trailer park in North Charleston is being transformed into high-dollar homes. The 17-acre site of the old Marshview Trailer Park at O'Hear Avenue and Noisette Creek will soon be home to 36 houses, priced from $350,000 to $420,000 in the first phase of development. Cal... Read More

BRIEFLY

Pizza delivery driver says he heard shots A pizza delivery driver reported fleeing from an abandoned house in the Midland Park Road area to the sound of gunshots after delivering an order there Thursday, North Charleston police said. The Pizza Hut driver arrived at 7... Read More

Ask Elsa

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Sweetgrass treasures gone

House fire claims basket maker's supplies, damages heirloom baskets

Fire, even a small one, can send years of family history up in smoke.

Willie Mae Jackson, a sweetgrass basket maker, learned that Christmas Eve, when a smoke alarm awoke Jackson's 18-year-old son, Justin, shortly after she left her Lucy's Lane home for work.
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Airlift Wing serves vital role in wars

Paramedic David Peacock leapt from the Pave Hawk helicopter into pitch black and groped his way to the patient. The firefight had just ended, the smell of it still in the air. An explosive had torn apart the man's face, his chest, his legs.

"The doctor was saying, 'He's got to have surgery or he's not going to make it.' They handed him to me and said, 'Good luck,' " Peacock said.
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Ford might not press for audit

Seeks answers in firing of S.C. State president

State Sen. Robert Ford is backing off, at least for now, from a threat to call for a financial audit of South Carolina State University's board of trustees if its members don't reinstate ousted President Andrew Hugine. The senator said he issued the ultimatum earlier this month in response... Read More

Assistants' loyalty to Bowden paying off

As Clemson seeks its first 10-win season in 17 years Monday against No. 22 Auburn in the Chick-fil-A Bowl (7:30 p.m., ESPN), the Tigers assistant coaches feel a mix of validation and relief. Read More

Del Webb's first community in the Charleston area caters to mature buyers at Cane Bay

Webb site

Looking to gauge interest in Del Webb Charleston at Cane Bay?

For one thing, many of the first group of buyers agreed to purchase homes after a summer tour on a rainy, muddy day, hardly the most attractive circumstances. In addition, buyers, which must include at least one resident age 55 or older, started holding get-togethers such as barbecues even before they moved in.
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Gamecocks survive Anteaters

South Carolina basketball team avoids upset by visiting UC-Irvine. Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Huckabee backers on roll

After slow start, front-runner status being enjoyed

Ten months ago it didn't seem like Mike Huckabee's true believers in South Carolina could fill a room. And for those like Adam Piper, life wasn't easy. Read More

Driver: Wind caused accident

18-wheelers tie up traffic in two incidents

Police have heard almost every excuse a driver could possibly dream up, but "the wind did it" might be a new one.

That's more or less what a trucker told State Transport Police after a dump trailer he was hauling with his 1995 Mack truck clipped the College Park Road overpass on eastbound Interstate 26 on Friday morning.
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Housing market had lousy year, but '08 promising

Queen Elizabeth II once famously referred to her "annus horribilis" — a horrible year during which almost everything went badly, from royal family scandals to a raging fire that destroyed parts of Windsor Castle. The American housing market experienced its own form of annus horribili... Read More

Home prices fall, but would-be buyers are holding back

A silver lining?

The upside to a housing slump is cheaper homes. But many prospective buyers don't see bargains yet, especially as stricter lending standards qualify only the cream of the credit crop. Read More

Stingrays scramble after goalie Parley called up

With four days off for the Christmas holidays and riding a nine-game winning streak, the South Carolina Stingrays return to the ice with a big weekend facing three Southeast Division opponents beginning tonight in Charlotte. Read More

At airport, early bird gets the wait

During holidays, up to 14 flights jam into same 95-minute takeoff window

Shortly before sunup Friday morning, Chris Watson turned the corner inside the Charleston airport's "A" Concourse and stopped with a stunned look on his face. Read More

'Rocky's Paulie tries a different canvas

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. — Of all the movie stars who populate the landmark buildings on Port Washington's Main Street — perhaps there's more than one; we don't know — Burt Young has to be the friendliest. ... Read More

Goose Creek, Burke set the stage for showdown

Goose Creek coach Brad Dobbels wanted more rebounding. Senior forward Joffery Ward decided it was time to show more leadership. Both got what they wanted. Read More

Bowl picks are a real crapshoot

You know, it's hard enough trying to figure out how college football teams are going to play when you've been watching them week after week. But it's almost impossible to predict how they're going to perform after being off for a month. Read More

Blaze leaves 6 families homeless

Miguel Gomez of Somerset Apartment Homes had just stepped outside to take a cigarette break when he saw what seemed like "a small, itty, bitty fire" on a roof several buildings away. Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Clyburn critiques first year

As Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., finishes up his first year as Majority Whip, Post and Courier reporter Robert Behre talked with him about his accomplishments, frustrations and what lies in store for next year. Read More

Car shows

Letters to the Editor

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Growth funds withstand market volatility, outpace value funds in 2007

Modest 4th-quarter gains extend lead

Funds dedicated to growth companies had surprisingly solid gains for 2007, withstanding market turbulence that usually pummels that volatile category of funds. Read More

Former drug addict finds season for second chance

The wind is not easy on this day.

Its chill reaches through the thickest of sweaters. But there she stands, her hand clasping a single gold bell. The sun shines on her as she gives the bell a good shake.
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Cardellini stepping from 'ER' to prequel

PASADENA, Calif. — Actress Linda Cardellini thrives on chaos. It seems the perfect condition for someone who wants to be an actor. The woman who plays Nurse Taggert on "ER" says, "You don't get into this business to know your future, and there's part of you that loves the roller-coaster ride of the unknown. ... Read More

Renaissance Weekend to tackle contemporary issues

Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners and other innovative leaders are pouring into the city to attend the 27th year of Renaissance Weekend, a nonpartisan family retreat that began Friday at Charleston Place. Philip Lader, who founded the weekends in 1981 along with his wife, Linda LeSou... Read More

Democracy must triumph

Credible evidence indicating that al-Qaida and the Taliban were behind the assassination of Benazir Bhutto provides Washington an opportunity to fine tune its policy toward Pakistan and the government of President Pervez Musharraf. President Bush has responded correctly in urging the Pakistani people "to honor Benazir Bhutto's memory by continuing with the democratic process for which she so bravely gave her life." ... Read More

Deaths Summary

Suspect denies Mount Pleasant killing; police calm residents

As Judy Farley snuggled up on the couch reading an Ann Rule murder book, a shocking, real-life homicide case was unfolding right next door. Read More

Deaths and Funerals

Town councilwoman arrested

Atlantic Beach mayor-elect: I had to go to the bathroom

COLUMBIA — A town councilwoman on Friday accused a police officer who arrested her of using excessive force, and said she desperately needed a bathroom when she was instead charged with resisting arrest during a traffic stop. Retha Pierce Sturdivant, 58, was pulled over Christmas nig... Read More

High Profile: BEN GRAMLING III

Tapping the brakes of his GMC Yukon on Cane Bay's main drag, Ben Gramling III sought to negotiate a U-turn from the right lane of the two-lane inbound causeway. He prepared to whip the wheel, then caught sight in the rearview mirror of a car coming up from the left. He quickly hit the brake pedal and let the vehicle pass. "I forget this is not my road anymore," says Gramling, 45. ... Read More

Gas hits $3 mark; oil prices decline

Record high prices for retail gasoline expected for spring

Gas prices rose back to $3 a gallon at the pump Friday, following rising futures prices on concerns about tight inventories and potential supply disruptions. Read More

Clemson offensive coordinator staying with Tigers

Rob Spence was being pursued by Tennessee

Clemson offensive coordinator Rob Spence is expected to remain with the Tigers. Read More

Today's Game

UC Irvine at South Carolina When: 7:35 p.m.; Where: Colonial Center (18,000), Columbia; Radio: WTMA 1250 AM; LINE: South Carolina by 10 1/2 South Carolina (6-5) Head coa... Read More

Deaths Summary

Martyr for democracy

Benazir Bhutto knowingly risked her life in the belief that she could save her nation from chaos. Only a matter of hours before she died a martyr's death, as Reuters news agency reported, she told her followers at the fatal rally in Rawalpindi, "I put my life in danger and came here because I fe... Read More

Sewee events kick off 2008

Walks, talks, oyster benefit

Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center, a joint venture of the Francis Marion National Forest and Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge will offer a variety of activities the first month of the new year. Read More

Roadwatch

Ongoing closings BERKELEY COUNTY --S.C. Highway 6: Lane closures between S.C. Highway 45 and S.C. Highway 311, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. CHARLESTON COUNTY --Hunley Avenue: Closed at Ellis Creek bridge on Folly Road. --U.S. Highway 78: One eastbound lane closed... Read More

A salute to departing USC president, Dr. Andrew Sorensen

The recent announcement by my colleague, Dr. Andrew Sorensen, that he will be stepping down from the presidency of the University of South Carolina has given me pause to reflect upon what has transpired since he came to the Palmetto State five years ago. I was excited about his arrival because he... Read More

Fourth All-State for Green

Three Lowcountry stars join Summerville receiver on AP team

A.J. Green couldn't have imagined the stellar career he would have when he first came out for the Summerville High School varsity football team. Four years later, Green is ready for even greater things in the game he loves. Read More

Five big (little) stories of 2007

There are plenty of 'top' lists in newspapers this time of year: the top stories, deaths, celebrities, scandals, etc., of 2007. The items in this list aren't likely to appear on many of those, but we selected them because we suspect future historians may view these 'little' developments a little differently. Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Adwatch: Clinton plays to health care strength, military support in SC ad

Still photos of Hillary Rodham Clinton from the campaign trail, including a classic stump shot of her holding a small child. There's also a close-up of a young black girl with text that reads, "health care for six million kids, 68,000 in South Carolina," in addition to images of Clinton speaking with senior citizens, hugging a military veteran and a shot of a man on crutches in what appears to be a hospital hallway. ... Read More

Briefcase

Economy, Bhutto's death weigh on stock markets NEW YORK — Stocks fell sharply Thursday on worries about political unrest after the assassination of Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto. The Commerce Department's weaker-than-expected durable goods orders report f... Read More

New Clinton TV spot has S.C. connection

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Hillary Clinton is airing a 60-second television ad in South Carolina that talks about how she has fought for universal health care, the National Guard and Reserve and against President Bush's plan to privatize Social Security. The ad is slightly tail... Read More

Iraq duty leaves dog behind

Volunteer to care for pet for a year

When Rick Olejarz leaves for Iraq tomorrow, he'll have one less thing to worry about. Read More

Troubles causing Sallie Mae shares to sink

WASHINGTON — Sallie Mae's planned $2.5 billion stock sale doesn't answer all of Wall Street's questions about the struggling student lender's future. While some analysts see the company's financing woes as a short-term problem, others highlight serious concerns about the Reston, Va. ... Read More

USC self-reports 10 secondary violations

COLUMBIA — South Carolina reported 10 secondary rules violations from the final half of 2007, the school said Thursday through a release. Additionally, USC said eight of its athletes tested positive for having marijuana in their systems. That was out of 438 tests. Among the ru... Read More

Deputies: Woman killed boyfriend on Christmas

LYNCHBURG — A woman shot her boyfriend three times in the head early Christmas morning after the two had spent most of the night arguing, authorities said. Tippy Retana, 37, was charged with murder Thursday afternoon after she failed a lie-detector test and admitted to killing 30-yea... Read More

Court rules illegal workers eligible for workers' comp

COLUMBIA — Illegal immigrants who are injured on the job are entitled to workers' compensation, the South Carolina Supreme Court has ruled. The court issued the opinion after an employer claimed a Mexican citizen who injured his right eye on a demolition job in Charleston should not ... Read More

The Fun Five

Things to do and where to do them

Things to do and where to do them Read More

BOA chief sees no deal in near future

CEO's acquisition history leads some analysts to expect big bid at anytime

When asked recently whether he saw any opportunities to make yet another deal to expand his financial services empire, Bank of America Corp.'s Ken Lewis casually answered, "Nothing that comes to mind." Read More

West Ashley teacher accused of rape dies in crash

A West Ashley High School teacher charged last week with raping a woman drove his vehicle into a tree and died Thursday morning in rural Florence County, authorities said.

A suicide note was reportedly found in Scott Knight's Jeep Cherokee, but its contents have not been released, said Charleston County sheriff's Maj. John Clark.
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Fashion Q&amp;A

Q: My husband's mother soon will be moving into an assisted-living facility. She has been staying with us since selling her home eight months ago. Read More

T's fuel Goose Creek in tournament opener

A pair of technical fouls against their opponents gave the Goose Creek Gators enough of a boost to pull away to a 10-point lead en route to a 67-54 victory over the Ridgeland Jaguars on Thursday night in the first round of the Modie Risher Classic at Burke High School.

Junior guard Philip Jenkins scored 24 points, and teammate Joffery Ward scored 11 while leading the team with 10 rebounds to help Goose Creek improve to 6-3. Despite the victory, Gators coach Brad Dobbels was frustrated by the way his team played.
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Iman's accent on busy woman

Want something done? Give it to a busy woman. Give it to Iman.

She's the CEO of her own cosmetics company, a sought-after supermodel, a wife to a superstar and a mother.
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Briefly: Cross woman dies after car flips over

Cross woman dies after car flips over A 24-year-old woman died after her car overturned on County Line Road near Cross on Thursday morning, authorities said. Carlethia Bookhart of Cross had been driving north in a 1994 Cadillac when she lost control shortly after 10... Read More

New Year 5

County community education top-rated

National review scores program

Charleston County's Community Education program received the highest possible rating in a recent review by the National Community Education Association. The county's Community Education program scored exemplary overall and in four of five areas. The only area to not receive the best rating... Read More

Mount Pleasant might suspend home-building permit limit

A record surplus of more than 400 single-family homebuilding permits has prompted the town to take a first step toward suspending a controversial seven-year-old program that limited new home construction. Read More

New bowl, new attitude

When they say they're happy to be here, by gosh they mean it.

No, Atlanta in December doesn't rank high on many folks' lists of glitzy holiday getaways. And Clemson's football team would no doubt prefer to be somewhere like Miami or New Orleans getting ready to carve out a slice of the BCS pie.
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Man charged in Mt. Pleasant killing

Police arrested a Charleston man late Thursday on a charge of murdering Anthony Chiaramonte, the 73-year-old found beaten to death inside his Mount Pleasant home on Christmas Day. Detectives caught up with Lawrence H. Pinckney, 38, in downtown Charleston and took him into custody around 9 ... Read More

New word 5

Romney camp fights 'push-polls'

Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney's presidential campaign is asking South Carolina supporters to report instances of "push-polling," a tactic used to smear candidates by making statements while pretending to take a poll. Read More

Goodwill distributes gifts, prizes

Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina wrapped up its ninth annual Golden Angel Tree Program at the Charleston Area Senior Citizens Services on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston. Read More

Center starts library with donations

Clients can read while they wait

It may be a small room, but it holds promise for those who use it. Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Delays pain air travelers

Some of the ticketing and security screening lines at the Charleston International Airport are experiencing delays - especially in the morning - as the country approaches the busiest single air travel day of the season.
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Renewed hope for Morris Island

The preservation of Morris Island has been a long, drawn-out campaign, but those who are dedicated to the task thankfully have been willing to persevere. The extension of an agreement for the island's sale and of a grant that will help make it possible reflect the commitment of all involved. ... Read More

Deaths & Funerals

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Hinson supporting ex-husband's run

Jimmy Hinson bids for ex-wife's seat

MONCKS CORNER — Seven years after a nasty election and runoff for the House District 92 seat, Rep. Shirley Hinson is supporting her ex-husband's bid for the seat that she gave up. "We have put that phase of our life behind us," said Hinson, R-Goose Creek, of the acrimony in the 2000 ... Read More

Uterine fibroid treatment gets payment boost from Medicaid

More than five years ago, Maxine Green learned she had uterine fibroids. As many as three out of four women develop the benign growths in their wombs during childbearing years. Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Holiday leftovers GMLc cleans up the kitchen with a small serving of news bites from the state, the nation and the world. Bhutto. CNN posted a page of back stories and video interviews, along with the history of the leadership and return to Pakistan ... Read More

Dreamliner continues to soar

Boeing's new aircraft hasn't flown, but carriers have ordered 790 of them

Boeing Co. said Thursday it finalized a deal with British Airways, raising total orders for its long-awaited 787 Dreamliner to 790 over the last three years.

British Airways' order for 24 Dreamliners gives the plane one of the industry's most successful launches ever, even though the airliner has yet to take flight.
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Departure of Spence would influence Harper

ATLANTA — If Rob Spence leaves for Tennessee, could Cullen Harper be off to the NFL? Harper, a redshirt junior, would not rule out the notion Thursday after No. 15 Clemson completed practice at the Georgia Dome. "I'd definitely have to sit down and t... Read More

Audi strong with A6 Avant Quattro wagon

The Audi wagon had us at "Hello."

We were smitten by its black and brick-red leather interior accented with birch wood veneer. It was elegant, exquisite, one of the most inviting interiors we've seen in any car. I wanted to drive it. My wife, Mary Anne, wanted the wheel. Ria Manglapus, my partner in vehicle evaluations, wanted in.
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Citadel Square Baptist pastor Arnold dies at 87

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Dorchester now the road less taken, thanks to link

There's a new road to happiness in North Charleston. With the recent opening of a 1.2-mile stretch of Patriot Boulevard between Wescott Boulevard and Palmetto Commerce Parkway, the suburban road now runs all the way from Dorchester Road to the parkway, providing a much-needed alternative r... Read More

Strathairn strayed far from circus

Elegantly serious, actor David Strathairn wasn't always so composed. To watch his cool command of roles such as CIA Deputy Director Noah Vosen in "The Bourne Ultimatum" or Edward R. Murrow in his Oscar-nominated performance in "Good Night, and Good Luck," it's hard to imagine he began as a clown.... Read More

S.C. State lends hand to Zanzibar

Project creates books for schools in need in sub-Saharan Africa

High school biology students on the East African island of Zanzibar no longer will have to share textbooks after South Carolina State University officials deliver 165,000 of them early next month. Read More

Uncertainty over Pakistan

Bhutto assassination likely to make business climate a bit more cloudy

The assassination of Benazir Bhutto is likely to further complicate business relations between the U.S. and Pakistan, which is already a major manufacturer of clothing and has been pushing for deeper private-sector ties. Read More

Marker gets official nod, now needs funds

Judi Meyer of Johns Island has permission from the town of Sullivan's Island to recognize men like her late father who worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps, but she needs help finding the funds to pay for a plaque. Read More

Berkeley Briefs

Drainage work near U.S. 52 connector Drainage improvements for Crossroads Drive residents near the U.S. Highway 52 connector in North Charleston will begin in the first part of the new year. North Charleston City Council recently awarded a bid of $174,000 to Rock Gra... Read More

Harry Connick Jr. sings not a peep in 'P.S. I Love You'

LOS ANGELES — Casting Harry Connick Jr. in a movie and not having him sing is like hiring Jackie Chan and not have him do any martial arts stunts. But that's what happened in "P.S. Love You." No, not the Chan thing. Connick is the only major cast member in the romantic comedy ... Read More

Voter rolls rise as primaries near

27,654 registered in past 4 weeks

COLUMBIA — Nearly 28,000 South Carolina residents have registered to vote in recent weeks, a sign that many people are preparing to cast a ballot in one of the nation's key presidential primaries here next month. In the past four weeks, voter rolls swelled by 27,654 people, 31 percen... Read More

Ana Ortiz has no fears of being a diva

Actress Ana Ortiz, who plays Betty's older sister, Hilda Suarez, on TV's "Ugly Betty," married musician Noah Lebenzon in Puerto Rico over the summer. Ortiz, 36, talks about her Latin heritage, getting ugly and staying grounded. Q: So, you're a TV junkie. A: Ah, yes.... Read More

Pastor's long walk takes him the way he is led

Minister makes 4th trip up, down peninsula

Pastor Vanderbilt Evans trekked along King Street on Thursday. A slender white cross balanced on his shoulder, trailing behind him on a caster. "I'm getting everybody to remember the cross," Evans said. "Remember what Jesus did for them." Evans began his 16-mile walk at Resurrected L... Read More

Berkeley Alternative to get makeover

Students will move to Weapons Station facility

Berkeley Alternative School students shouldn't get too comfortable when they return to class after winter break. A yearlong renovation project at the school in Moncks Corner will begin soon after the start of the new year, and the construction will displace the school's faculty and student... Read More

Parks chairman focus of inquiry

Ethics agency examines credit card incident

Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission Chairman Kevin Hollinshead is being investigated by the State Ethics Commission after using a county credit card to buy $213 worth of tickets to an Indianapolis Colts game, an upgrade to first class and about $300 in other personal charges during a September trip to Indiana. Read More

Police make arrest in Mount Pleasant murder case

Presidential primaries Q&A

With the state's primaries less than a month away, click for a primer on what they're all about and who can participate. Read More

Travelers encounter early morning headaches at Charleston International Airport

Lines at the Charleston International Airport remain long -- especially in the morning -- as the country faces some of the busiest travel days of the year. Read More

Teacher charged with rape found dead after car crash in Florence County

A suicide note was reportedly found in Scott Larue Knight's car, but emergency workers were still clearing the scene and further details were unavailable, said Charleston County Sheriff's Maj. John Clark. Read More

Pakistani opposition leader Bhutto killed in suicide attack on campaign rally

The death of the 54-year-old charismatic former prime minister threw the campaign for the Jan. 8 parliamentary elections into chaos and created fears of mass protests and violence across the nuclear-armed nation, an important U.S. ally in the war on terrorism. Read More

Development of Grimball Farms OK'd

James Island tract to feature 227 homes

The city of Charleston Planning Commission unanimously approved plans for 227 houses, a golf course, equestrian area, tennis courts, marsh trails and an archaeological site on 341 acres of Grimball Farms, a 932-acre tract between Folly Road and the Stono River near James Island Elementary School. The Dec. 19 vote to approve the project comes after the board rejected two other plans in the past seven years. ... Read More

International Piano Series

The School of the Arts at the College of Charleston is featuring the 18th season of the International Piano Series. Individual tickets are $20. Credit-card reservations and more information can be obtained by calling 953-6575. College of Charleston students and those under 18 years old are... Read More

Berkeley school district wants lawsuit dismissed

MONCKS CORNER — The Berkeley County School District wants a judge to dismiss a Post and Courier lawsuit seeking the release of Superintendent Chester Floyd's performance evaluations. The district wrote Friday in its response to the lawsuit that the information is not under the distri... Read More

2007 Year in Review: Summerville

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Wild Wing a Mount Pleasant staple for more than a decade

The Wild Wing Cafe in Mount Pleasant long has been not only a favorite place to grab a bite to eat, but also to belly up to the bar, see a live band or enjoy a cocktail on the side patio. Read More

Library programs

The Charleston County Public Library will offer the following free programs: East of the Cooper --Mount Pleasant Regional, 1133 Mathis Ferry Road: 849-6161 Family Game Day (ages 5 and up): Jan. 2 from 2-4 p.m. Play some of your favorite family games. Make... Read More

Mantra propels you through marathon

DALLAS — At the start of a race, you're caught up in the energy and electricity. The enthusiasm carries you as surely as your shoes; the encouragement of the spectators chimes like church bells. After the first mile, the second for sure, you're no longer elbow-to-elbow with fellow runners. ... Read More

Authorities calling Mount Pleasant death a homicide

As Los Angeles residents, Judy and Bill Farley became used to hearing news about homicides. But in the two years since they moved to the Charleston National subdivision in Mount Pleasant, they had not once heard the words homicide and the name of their new town mentioned in the same sentence. Read More

Height disparity no problem for unbeaten Burke

Lacking size, the Burke Bulldogs are going to find out if their five-guard lineup can hold up to the rigors of a three-day tournament. Seven boys basketball teams will visit Burke High School beginning today for the Modie Risher Classic, and the host Bulldogs will have to test whether sma... Read More

Center for Creative Retirement

The College of Charleston Center for Creative Retirement has scheduled spring classes. Creative Retirement classes meet Tuesdays during the academic year at St. Joseph's Family Life Center, 1695 Raoul Wallenberg Blvd., West Ashley. The phone number is 953-5488. Membership dues for Jan.-May... Read More

Only a junior, Jennings wise beyond his years

Every now and then you see a kid on the basketball court who turns your head. Sure, he's tall, but there's always something else, something smooth, something calm, something special. Read More

Summer in the City auditions set

The South of Broadway Theatre Co., 1080 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston, will hold auditions for its 2008 Summer in the City program. Summer in the City is an annual, month-long residency in New York City where arts students reside at the famous Juilliard School. Individual courses of i... Read More

BRIEFLY

Attorney suspended from practicing law A North Charleston attorney arrested on a cocaine possession charge this month has been temporarily suspended from the practice of law by the state Supreme Court. John L. Drennan was arrested on Dec. 8 by Mount Pleasant police, ... Read More

Ask Elsa

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Top of the Second Power Poll

Oldest person in state dies

Woman was 113, 4th oldest in U.S.

COLUMBIA — Leila Bertha Backman Shull, the oldest South Carolina resident and one of the oldest people in the world, has died. She was 113. Shull died Saturday at her home, Todd Caughman, manager of Caughman-Harmon Funeral Homes, said Wednesday. Shull, of Lexington County, was... Read More

Ambler carves out nice niche in these woods

Woodcut artist Kent Ambler has recently joined Tammy Papa, Billie Sumner, Tate Nation and Will Hegler at the Shem Creek Art Gallery as an exhibitor. Read More

Wal-Mart bucks trend, pours money into D.C.

WASHINGTON — Wal-Mart's message to America is "Save money. Live better." Its motto in Washington might best be summed up another way: Spend more. Lobby harder. While overall spending on lobbying appears to be slowing a bit, some industries, including private equity firms and companie... Read More

Train for 2008

January Jan. 1: United Way TeenLine Resolution Run and Walk. 5K. 10 a.m. Riley Park, Charleston. Sonya McGough, 740-9000, ext. 245. www.tuw.org. Jan. 19: 12th Laura Griffin Memorial Run and Walk. 5K. 8 a.m. College of Charleston. Deb Miller, 953-8248 or millerd@cofc.... Read More

Deaths & Funerals

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DOT candidates to undergo screening

COLUMBIA — Eleven candidates intend to apply for a seat on the state's Transportation Commission, but they'll have to agree to submit to a lengthy screening process. As part of the Legislature's Transportation Department reform this year, a panel will evaluate the candidates based on... Read More

Best Christmas lesson I ever had was from a 9-year-old

It was a Christmas season long ago; my wife and I had recently celebrated our second wedding anniversary. Our own children were yet to be when one 9-year-old stranger taught us the dramatic lesson of Christmas love in one short encounter. Every Christmas, the Jaycees in the town where we w... Read More

Hot Tickets

Best bets fot the coming week Read More

2007 Year in Review: Charleston

Future of bond insurers comes into question

NEW YORK — The biggest casualty of the crisis surrounding bond insurers might well be the insurers themselves. Issuers and bond buyers alike might find it easier now to dispense with insurance, experts say, given that the finances of industry players such as ACA Capital and MBIA Inc.... Read More

Historic NFL game available to all of America, after all

NEW YORK — After weeks of insisting they wouldn't cave in, NFL officials did just that Wednesday. Now all of America can see the Patriots' shot at history. Saturday night's game between New England and the New York Giants on the NFL Network, which is available in fewer than 40 percen... Read More

Eco-friendly coffins make funerals green

PORTLAND, Ore. — Cynthia Beal wants to be an Oregon cherry tree after she dies. She has everything to make it happen: a body, a burial site and a biodegradable coffin. "It is composting at its best," said Beal, owner of the Natural Burial Co., which will sell a variety of eco-friendl... Read More

Bruce, Dixon power West Ashley in opening round

Wildcats whip Cougs

West Ashley basketball coach Ronnie DuPre has a theory why star player Kevin Bruce's name isn't on the Wildcats' roster listed in the Piggly Wiggly Roundball Classic program.

"He was the last name on our roster and I guess it got cut off," said DuPre after his boys basketball team topped North Charleston, 64-51, on Wednesday night in the first round of the 15th annual Roundball Classic, which is being contested at West Ashley High School. "He's about our best player. He's been our second leading scorer and leading rebounder all year."
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Holiday season was very good to online retailers

Old Saint Nick isn't the go-to guy for gifts that he used to be. Rivaling the jolly man in the big red suit is quite possibly the hottest retail trend to hit the holiday season since, well, Santa Claus: online shopping. Read More

Double Zero

Brothers David and Christopher Mock, both in their early 20s, have one rule with regard to their carry-out buffet restaurant. Read More

Will Hoge prepares for New Year's gig at Music Farm

Known for playing in excess of 250 shows a year Will Hoge, for all intents and purposes, had sworn off New Year's Eve gigs. Read More

YouthBuild still without school site

Officials negotiating over three properties

Sea Islands YouthBuild Charter School students still don't have a permanent place to call home. The school's at-risk students will go to a two-week leadership day camp at the Boy Scouts facility on Wadmalaw Island when they return from winter break. The charter school opened in Augu... Read More

Events

Parks duo posts best Parent-Child score

State Report Austin and Kip Parks, competing in the sons 16-19 age group, had the lowest round in Wednesday's City of Charleston Parent-Child Golf Championship, firing a 5-under-par 67 at the Municipal Golf Course. Warren Peper, competing with his son Mark in the son... Read More

Family Circle Tennis Center

The Family Circle Tennis Center, 161 Seven Farms Drive, Daniel Island, has scheduled the following classes and programs. To register, call 849-5300 or visit www.familycirclecup.com. Junior tennis programs Micro Cup Tennis/36'-60' (age 3-5 years): This program uses th... Read More

Search halted; no body found

Mount Pleasant — Authorities patrolled the Wando River for nearly three hours Wednesday before calling off the search for the night. There had been a report of a man who had possibly jumped into the river from an Interstate 526 bridge. The Coast Guard dispatched a helicopter and a bo... Read More

Townsend recognized for school board service

Frances Townsend, a member of the Dorchester School District 2 Board of Trustees, has been recognized by the South Carolina School Board Association for 10 years of school board service. The district board recognized Townsend's years of service to the school system and the community during... Read More

For some funny reason, Bryce thinks he's hilarious

First things first, let's make one thing clear: This week's column is not to be confused with the "Best of Bryce" installment we've all come to love; the occasion we mark on our calendars in permanent ink so that at 5 in the morning, when the newspaper delivery man finally comes by the house, we can steal his car filled with Preview sections and then wallpaper the living room with Bryce's beautiful face. No, that comes next week. This particular space filler so I can go on vacation is more of an appetizer for the main course. Something to whet your Brycetite, if you will. Read More

Alliance against terror

Yesterday's meeting in Islamabad between Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf and Afghan President Hamid Karzai has been hailed as "unusually friendly" by The Associated Press. You don't have to look far for the reason that the two leaders have stopped sniping at each other and are now talking of the need for close cooperation, particularly in sharing intelligence to counter Islamist terrorists. ... Read More

Reclaim your figure after holiday revelry

Three fitness trips help rescue waistline

Go ahead and grab another helping of plum pudding or a third glass of eggnog. It's the holidays, for Santa's sake. However, once the bubbly has gone flat, it's time to get back into shape. But this time, skip the gym and instead take your body on vacation. We picked three levels of fitness trips: ... Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

GMLc revealed GMLc, which stands for Good Morning Lowcountry, began in 2000 as a shared project among a bunch of metro desk editors. We all took turns writing it, each adding more and more peculiar stuff. Just kidding. GMLc Proper began writing it full-time in 2004 and writes it 7 days a week ... unless we're on vacation, sick or had to leave suddenly to drive to Salkehatchie Swamp. ... Read More

This Week

It almost seems a tragedy that Charleston band The Explorers Club is one of the area's most original music acts, yet is also one of the area's most neglected. Read More

Bernal busy on both sides of camera

Gael Garcia Bernal, 29, was the toast of the town during the recent, 31st annual Sao Paulo International Film Festival. He was starring in Hector ("Kiss of the Spider Woman") Babenco's darkly unsettling relationship drama "The Past," presenting another film, the rural Mexican fable "Cochochi," through the Mexico City production company (Canana Films) he founded last year with his "Y Tu Mama Tambien" co-star Diego Luna, and unveiling his directorial debut, "Deficit." Read More

Head2Head Trivia

Ring in the New year with some tricky trivia Read More

Home prices fall in October

Decline of 6.7% in key index biggest since early 1991

U.S. home prices fell in October for the 10th consecutive month, posting their largest drop since early 1991, according to a key index released Wednesday.

The record 6.7 percent slide in the Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller home price index also marked the 23rd consecutive month that prices either fell or grew more slowly than the month before. The previous record decline was 6.3 percent in April 1991.
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Poetry Society

The Poetry Society of South Carolina has scheduled the following programs for 2007-08. All regular monthly programs, except as noted, are held at Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting St., at 7 p.m. They are free to the public. A book signing and reception follow the program. For ... Read More

'Debaters' vividly portrays racial divide

Forgive yourself for thinking you've seen "The Great Debaters," oh, about three dozen times before. Read More

Ring it in: Where to spend New Year's Eve in the Lowcountry

New Year's Eve is the greatest holiday of the entire year. And by that I mean, the greatest holiday to stay up late and pretend you're half-your-age. But that minor detail aside, it's pretty awesome. Every year all the best clubs go all out for people willing to shell out a few bucks. Some parties are swank and expensive, while others are simple and cheap. Read More

Charter middle school wins state approval

Charleston County parents will have another option when deciding where to send their children to school next year. Horizon Middle Academy has cleared two of the biggest hurdles to opening as a charter school next fall and serving 350 sixth- through eighth-grade students. The charter... Read More

Happenings

Aquarium to hold New Year's Eve ball The New Year's Eve Grand Ball will be held 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Dec. 31 at the S.C. Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, downtown Charleston. Guests can celebrate New Year's Eve amid exotic fish and help raise money for the aquarium's education... Read More

2007 Year in Review: Berkeley

Clubs

Duplicate Bridge The Greater Charleston Duplicate Bridge Club will be holding "Bridge Basic Plus" lessons for beginners and those new to bridge. The lessons will be held 10 a.m.-noon Mondays for eight weeks beginning Jan. 7 at the Church of the Holy Cross on Sulliva... Read More

Dare to go (Polar) Bear

Take the plunge for charity at Sullivan's Island or Folly Beach on New Year's Day

There are lots of words people use to describe Polar Bear swimmers who plunge into the frigid Atlantic every New Year's Day: Wild. Crazy. Foolhardy. This year, though, consider suspending the stereotypes and instead think about the event and the swimmers in positive terms that also happen to be true: Fun-loving. Brave. Charitable. ... Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Deaths Summary

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Center for Creative Retirement

The College of Charleston Center for Creative Retirement has scheduled spring classes. Creative Retirement classes meet Tuesdays during the academic year at St. Joseph's Family Life Center, 1695 Raoul Wallenberg Blvd., West Ashley. The phone number is 953-5488. Membership dues for J... Read More

Panthers end Peppers' season by placing him on IR

NFL Notes CHARLOTTE — Julius Peppers' disappointing season is over. The Carolina Panthers placed the defensive end on injured reserve Wednesday with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee. The injury forced Peppers to miss Saturday's loss to Da... Read More

Happenings

Boat show set for North Charleston The Charleston Boat Show, presented by Mercury Marine, will be held at the Charleston Area Convention Center and North Charleston Coliseum on Jan. 25-27 with more than 90 boat lines on display. The largest boat show in the Lowcountry marks... Read More

2007 The Year in Review: James Island

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International Piano Series

The School of the Arts at the College of Charleston is featuring the 18th season of the International Piano Series. Tickets are $20. Credit-card reservations and information can be obtained by calling 953-6575. College of Charleston students and those under 18 are admitted free. All concerts will... Read More

Jaguars peaking at right time

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — When the Jacksonville Jaguars last made the playoffs in 2005, they hardly scared anyone. The New England Patriots even treated their season finale like an exhibition game, welcoming a loss and a first-round matchup with Jacksonville. No one seems eager to ... Read More

Happenings

Sunrise Presbyterian plans celebration Sunrise Presbyterian Church on Sullivan's Island will hold a free concert to ring in the new year 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 31. The evening will feature works by composers Leo Brouwer, Chick Corea, Gershwin, Mendelssohn, Schubert, George Winst... Read More

Corporate lobbying throttles back

WASHINGTON — A decade-long boom for corporate lobbyists in Washington is showing signs of quieting down, just as tougher congressional rules threaten to muffle the multibillion-dollar industry even more next year. The new rules mandate more detailed disclosure of lobbying activities,... Read More

Despite trouble with the law, R. Kelly tour rolls on

In an interview earlier this year R. Kelly felt the need to tell "Hip Hop Soul" magazine just what he thinks of himself. Humble, as you can well imagine, was not part of the description. Read More

4 students win artwork contest for Berchtold holiday cards

Every year Berchtold Corp. sends out holiday greetings to customers, suppliers and associates around the world. This year, in celebration of 25 years of business in the United States and 20 years in Charleston, the company decided to share a bit of its community with its customers and it requeste... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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New center aims to build most-functional hospital

With the hospital construction business booming in the Lowcountry, researchers are asking: Are we building hospitals the right way? Read More

Surprising 'Juno' a winner

Going inside Planet Teenager in a way that few films bother (or manage) to do, Jason Reitman's "Juno" is a winning serio-comedy buoyed by a delightful lead performance by Ellen Page. Read More

2007 Year in Review: East Cooper

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Isle of Palms rec

The Isle of Palms Recreation Department is offering the following activities. Registration is required for most of the events listed. Call 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net. YOUTH BASEBALL: Co-Ed. Ages 5-12 (as of April 30, 2008). Registration: IOP residents: Jan. 19-25; nonresidents Jan. 28-F... Read More

Theater group to hold auditions

The South of Broadway Theatre Co., 1080 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston, will hold auditions for its 2008 Summer in the City program. Summer in the City is an annual, month-long residency in New York City where arts students reside at the Juilliard School. Individual courses of i... Read More

Service award nominees accepted

Nominations are being accepted for the South Carolina Commission on National and Community Service and State Farm Service-Learning awards. The awards recognize students and schools that have demonstrated a commitment to community service tied to academics. Winners will be named in t... Read More

Aquatics center needed

Proponents must pool their support

After 2 1/2 years, we all know that the bike-pedestrian lane on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge was a grand slam of a public project. Throughout the seasons, people of all ages and sizes have continued to use it for exercise, transportation and panoramic views of Charleston Harbor. ... Read More

Chew on This

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Clubs

Duplicate Bridge The Greater Charleston Duplicate Bridge Club will hold "Bridge Basic Plus" lessons for beginners and those new to bridge 10 a.m.-noon Mondays for eight weeks beginning Jan. 7 at the Church of the Holy Cross on Sullivan's Island. The fee is $80. The ... Read More

Cindy's a wonderful step back in time

Cindy's Seafood Cafe and market feels like an authentic "cracker barrel." The tchotchkes of a sea-faring life hang like warriors around the barn-like restaurant. Read More

Lieber locked down

Escape attempt cited in keeping inmates in cells

RIDGEVILLE — Lieber Correctional Institution is expected to remain locked down until noon today in response to a weekend escape attempt by two inmates, corrections officials said. A correctional officer spotted the pair trying to cut through an interior fence surrounding their dormit... Read More

Prior joins hometown Padres

At A Glance SAN DIEGO — Mark Prior and his hometown San Diego Padres agreed to a $1 million, one-year contract on Wednesday, making him the second postoperative pitcher to join the team in less than a month. Prior, whose once-promising career has been sidetrack... Read More

Cumberland's closing its doors with musical style

Unless you have been living in a cave for the last couple of months, you are no doubt aware that Cumberland's on King Street is closing for good after its annual New Year's Eve celebration. Read More

Roadwatch

Ongoing closings BERKELEY COUNTY --S.C. Highway 6: Lane closures between S.C. Highway 45 and S.C. Highway 311, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. CHARLESTON COUNTY --Hunley Avenue: Closed at Ellis Creek bridge on Folly Road. --U.S. Highway 78: One eastbound lane closed... Read More

Poetry Society

The Poetry Society of South Carolina has scheduled the following programs for 2008. All regular monthly programs, except as noted, are held at Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting St., at 7 p.m. They are free to the public. A book signing and reception follow the program. For mor... Read More

Happenings

Boat show set for North Charleston The Charleston Boat Show, presented by Mercury Marine, will be held at the Charleston Area Convention Center and North Charleston Coliseum on Jan. 25-27. Hours are noon-8 p.m. Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 26 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 27. Read More

Post-holiday shopping could make retailers' holiday season brighter

Apparently some people missed the news that Tuesday was, in fact, the Big Day.

On Wednesday, it was still looking a lot like Christmas at the stores - and on the roads, and in the mall parking lot. But the day that used to be a time of many happy returns is now just another holiday shopping day.
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Adwatch: McCain focuses on war record in latest South Carolina ad

The ad opens with familiar, black-and-white footage of McCain in a hospital bed. The Vietnam veteran and former prisoner of war grimaces in a close-up and then the ad shifts to color images from the campaign trail as the announcer talks about McCain's opposition to President Bush's Iraq War strategy... Read More

Sending out an SOS

Councilman, others want second post office for busy Mount Pleasant

Amid the day-after-Christmas lull at the post office, some customers said they agreed with Councilman Gary Santos that the town needs another postal facility to serve the rapidly growing northern part of town.

"I can't believe that a place the size geographically of Mount Pleasant doesn't have more than one post office," said Longpoint subdivision resident Robin Quick. She usually drives seven miles to Isle of Palms or 10 miles to Awendaw to avoid visiting the busy post office on Johnnie Dodds Boulevard.
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Sound off

Family Circle Tennis Center

The Family Circle Tennis Center, 161 Seven Farms Drive, Daniel Island, has scheduled the following classes and programs. To register, call 849-5300 or visit www.familycirclecup.com. Junior tennis programs Micro Cup Tennis/36'-60' (age 3-5 years): This program uses th... Read More

Good Cheer prevails again

As of Christmas Eve, the Good Cheer Fund was nearly $92,000 behind last year's record pace. But as of Christmas Day, it had overcome that gap — and then some — thanks in large part to the enduring generosity of three sisters whose estate makes a substantial annual contribution to the fund. ... Read More

A long life lived 'sweet and easy'

Longevity in life, judging from the growing number of people who make it to 100, generally seems to reflect healthy habits — including the practice of getting along well with others. Leila Bertha Backman Shull's remarkably long journey through life, which included all of one century and parts of two others, supports that theory. ... Read More

'Water Horse' touching story of friendship

The fantasy family film "The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep" was directed by Jay Russell, who previously directed "My Dog Skip." And the script was based on the book by Dick King-Smith, who also wrote "Babe: The Gallant Pig." In other words, bring tissues - that means you, moms and dads. Read More

Authorities searching Wando River for possible jumper

Lieber to remain on lockdown through noon Thursday

Elderly man was killed by blow to the head

Mount Pleasant man is homicide victim Read More

NFL going green

The NFL is planting thousands of trees in Arizona forests blackened by wildfires to help offset greenhouse gas emissions from the Super Bowl in February. The league also will power University of Phoenix Stadium and the adjacent NFL theme park with clean energy sources, from New Mexico wi... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Charleston picks neighborhood park over housing development

A 9-acre piece of land on Woodland Road in West Ashley will be the site of a neighborhood park instead of a 29-home development that had received preliminary approval. The city of Charleston will pay $1.275 million in Charleston County greenbelt funds for the land. The county allocated the funds, which come from the half-cent sales tax, last week. ... Read More

Follow up on Berkeley school case

Know your bubbles in time for party

You don't have to be a connoisseur to enjoy a little fizz with your buzz this holiday season. "Tasting wine and champagne is a very simple thing. It's all about pleasure," says Herve Rousseau, owner of New York's Flute champagne bar. If you've already got the pleasure part down, here are a few more hints for celebrating the sparkle. ... Read More

Without a trace: Missing woman's family fears worst

Viridiana Maldonado left two young children with her sister and mother one October night and vanished without taking so much as a toothbrush or suitcase. Her 6-year-old son still cries, wondering where she is. Her mother, older sister and family friends in North Charleston have grown increasingly convinced that something bad has happened. ... Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Annual count of bald eagles drawing near

The midwinter count of South Carolina's bald eagle population starts next week. The annual survey counts the pairs, nests and young of the once-endangered, majestic raptor. More than 220 breeding pairs of the eagle were counted in South Carolina last year, more than 20 along the Cooper River alone. More than 300 chicks hatched during the past two years. ... Read More

Policy shift could end Castro era

At 81, after nearly half a century in power, Cuba's dictator Fidel Castro has indicated for the first time that he is considering stepping down as supreme leader. But there is no cause for celebration. The ailing tyrant intends to hold the Cuban people in his thrall until the day he dies and has also arranged the succession to his rule so smoothly that Castro-Communism will linger for some time after his death. ... Read More

Briefly

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Council at odds over attorney's pay

Charleston County Attorney Joe Dawson's nine bosses have decided to restrain his pay after a heated discussion that was fueled by appeals for fiscal responsibility and accusations of foul play. Dawson's pay had been a sore subject among County Council members for quite awhile; ... Read More

Roundball welcomes back Cougars

There's nothing wrong with being home for the holidays. But sitting around at home when you should be playing in the biggest holiday tournament, well, that's a different story. That was the story for the North Charleston Cougars, who couldn't play in the Piggly Wiggly Roundball Cla... Read More

High schools creating buzz

Ashley Ridge, Cane Bay ramp up for August opening

Lowcountry educators are preparing for a new year that will radically reshape several of the area's flagship high schools.

The August 2008 opening of two new high schools, Berkeley's Cane Bay and Dorchester District 2's Ashley Ridge, will transfer hundreds of students from Stratford, Summerville and Fort Dorchester high schools.
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Bite size

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Fattening the farm bill

Given the option of cutting Depression-era farm programs, the Senate instead voted for business as usual recently, adopting a $286 billion farm bill with subsidy programs intact. It should be an embarrassment to senators of both parties. There was a bipartisan impulse for reform, but it was stymied by congressmen from farm states who want to keep the tap flowing from Washington, particularly with congressional elections coming up next year. ... Read More

A mess o' greens: For money or health they do a body good

For money or health, they do a body good Everywhere we turn these days, things are going "green." If your diet isn't already, it's an opportune time to get on board. While there are green vegetables of all kinds, we're talking specifically about leafy greens such as collards, kale and spinach. ... Read More

Police wield new weapon against crime

Between ads for Trident Technical College and Saturn automobiles, an urgent appeal flashes across an enormous screen: "Have you seen me?" North Charleston police are using a 14-by-48-foot digital billboard to solicit leads on missing people and wanted suspects. Billboard owner Adams Outdoor Advertising started donating space on the sign facing eastbound on Interstate 26 near Ashley Phosphate Road about a month ago. ... Read More

Clementines growing as holiday fruit choice

Kids today aren't likely to be quite as excited by holiday fruit as Pete Napolitano was as a child. Fifty years ago, it was a Napolitano family tradition to stuff Christmas stocking with citrus wrapped in brightly colored foil. "It was Italian tradition," says Napolitano, also known as Produce Pete on his weekly New York area television segment about what to buy at the market. ... Read More

TBonz continues holiday tradition

Mount Pleasant — Jordan Singleton didn't have to travel to Santa's workshop in the North Pole to spend Christmas surrounded by televisions, skateboards, DVD players and remote-controlled cars. Inside the special "toyland" section of TBonz Restaurant, more than 150 children had the chance to select a gift of their choice Tuesday. ... Read More

Roasting alternative for sweet potatoes

Pity the poor sweet potato fry. Too often it's a soggy, limp cousin to its white-potato kin, never reaching the expected crispness we've been conditioned to expect from a fry. In large part, that's because most sweet potato fries commonly available in restaurants are prepared in the same way as regular fries — a brief bath in a deep fryer — which usually dooms them to a short unhappy life, pushed away to the edge of a plate. ... Read More

Gillispie era at UK off to shaky start

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Three pictures on the cover of the Kentucky basketball media guide seem to capture the first 10 games of Billy Gillispie's tenure at one of college basketball's most demanding jobs. In one, Gillispie is clapping his hands, staring intently into the distance. The two ... Read More

Front Burner

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Bryant, Bynum lift Lakers

Lakers 122, Suns 115 LOS ANGELES — Kobe Bryant asked to be traded last spring in part because he wanted to play for a team that could contend for an NBA title. He just might have gotten his wish by staying put. Bryant scored 26 of his 38 points in the se... Read More

Ring in new year with black-eyed peas

I grew up with a traditional New Year's Day lunch held every year at my grandmother's house. It rivaled Christmas dinner and the Thanksgiving feast. Not so in my house. We're simply too tired and too full from all the other celebrations for another big to-do. So our family now opts for a light, snack-type array that allows for grazing throughout the day. ... Read More

Deaths Summary

West Ashley Rec Report

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Skins vs. Cowboys: Big just got bigger

ASHBURN, Va. — For the Washington Redskins and their fans, any game against the Dallas Cowboys is a big one. This one is bigger than usual: It's the regular-season finale, and it's win-and-you're-in for Washington. Improbable as it seemed only a few weeks ago, and despite everything... Read More

Girl Scouts win 'Most Creative' at Christmas parade

Local officials team up to help plant

SUMMERVILLE — Donations of temporary manufacturing space and surplus sewing equipment are being sought to help the Gransfors Bruks safety apparel firm recover from a devastating fire. The rapidly moving 7 p.m. Dec. 13 fire destroyed the sewing plant and shut down U.S. Highway 78 for several hours. ... Read More

Kids learn to shop themselves

Student Elf Shop provides lessons

Not many 6-year-olds do their own Christmas shopping. But when people open Ford Gasperson's gifts, they'll be getting something he picked out himself. Winford and his classmates at Charles Towne Montessori had the opportunity to pick out and purchase small gifts at the school's annual Elf Shop, held three days this week. ... Read More

Death of man found in yard investigated

LEXINGTON — Lexington County deputies are investigating the death of a man found severely injured on the front lawn of a home on Christmas Day. Sheriff James Metts said the man was still alive when a woman called 911 around 10:30 a.m. to report that she had found him in her yard, but... Read More

Animals get holiday attention

Every year, Wando High School's 3,000 students contribute toys and food items for the needy around Christmas. This year, science teacher DeAna Herring asked if some of her students would like to go beyond giving gifts to individuals and donate items to the Charleston Animal Society, formerly known as the John Ancrum Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. ... Read More

Briefly in East Cooper

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Officers work to make kids' holiday brighter

While some kids were eager to see what joys awaited them on Tuesday morning, others were glad to have a roof over their heads and a place to get a warm meal. But for the past four years, the Charleston chapter of the Palmetto State Law Enforcement Officers' Association has given children who spend the holidays at Crisis Ministries a little more, something they can call Christmas. ... Read More

Dorchester Rec Report

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Good Morning Lowcountry

Boxing Day Today is Boxing Day, a fine old English custom that Americans don't observe, and the English don't either, anymore. Boxing Day was set aside for giving cash or goods to members of the lower classes on the day after Christmas. Britain codified it int... Read More

The Wine List

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Lift-off for New Orleans

NASA contracts to boost area's recovery

NEW ORLEANS The route to the moon and perhaps to Mars now goes through New Orleans, and the detour couldn't come at a better time in the city's struggle to rebuild its shattered economy after Hurricane Katrina. With thousands of houses still in ruins and its population reduced by almost 170,000, a boost is on the way for New Orleans in the form of high-wage jobs and contracts for next-generation space systems at NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility. ... Read More

C of C's Johnson gets points across by working hard around the basket

It wasn't long after he arrived at the College of Charleston that power forward Jermaine Johnson realized he wasn't going to be the main option in the Cougars' offense. So Johnson came up with a plan that would get the basketball in his hands. "I used to hear the guys arguing over who was going to score, and saying, 'I'm going to do this and I'm going to do that,' " Johnson said. ... Read More

Clinton, Obama battle for black vote

ORANGEBURG — Barack Obama would be the first black president, but stroll the campus of South Carolina State University and it won't take long to realize he doesn't have a lock on the black vote. "I like Hillary. I like her a lot," said Shay Mack, a nursing student at the historically black school. "She has the experience. She's been in the White House before; she's in the Senate now. And I like Bill." ... Read More

Charter school in works for N. Charleston

North Charleston could see another charter school open to serve at-risk, low-income children within the next two years. Carolina Preparatory Academy would be a 700-student, kindergarten-through-12th grade college prep school that would target families from neighborhoods near the old Navy base. ... Read More

Wando students turn attention to animal society for holidays

Every year, Wando High School's 3,000 students contribute toys and food items for the needy around Christmas. This year, science teacher DeAna Herring asked if some of her students would like to go beyond giving gifts to individuals and donate items to the Charleston Animal Society, formerly known as the John Ancrum Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. ... Read More

Cooking classes

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Winningest trainer dies in car crash

At A Glance GREENFIELD, Ind. — Dale Baird, the winningest thoroughbred trainer with more than 9,400 victories, died in a crash along an icy highway when he lost control of his pickup truck while hauling a livestock trailer. He was 72. He was killed Sunday in th... Read More

Deaths and Funerals

'Don't tase me bro' a part of 2008 forecast

Let's cut right to the Chase, and other sports predictions for 2008: --Tiger Woods wins three majors. Some guy unselected in fantasy golf drafts will win the other. --Tiger wood bats are too much for the Cubs in the World Series. --Ohio State wins the BCS title game, even afte... Read More

See New Year through rose-hued glasses

SAN FRANCISCO — In the mood for a bit of bubbly this season? You may want to join the blush rush. "Definitely, people are drinking more rose champagne than before," says Herve Rousseau, owner of Flute, a champagne bar with two locations in New York and a third coming in Paris. ... Read More

Roadwatch

Ongoing closings BERKELEY COUNTY --S.C. Highway 6: Lane closures between S.C. Highway 45 and S.C. Highway 311, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. CHARLESTON COUNTY --Hunley Avenue: Closed at Ellis Creek bridge on Folly Road. --U.S. Highway 78: One eastbound lane close... Read More

Airline on verge of stellar growth

As other carriers struggle, Emirates expects $1B profit

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Emirates Airline has ordered a jaw-dropping 245 new widebody planes, but the company's president shuns suggestions that he wants to create the world's biggest airline. "I'm not bothered personally if that makes us the biggest or not," said Emirates Presi... Read More

Woman gets gift of eyesight

SPARTANBURG —Nancy Vanderbrink knows she saw something last week, but isn't sure what it was. She's gotten accustomed to her vision being comparable to looking through a dirty windshield or fog, but things are changing now. She has spent the past few days looking at unfamiliar sights... Read More

Crisis has officials scrambling

Fear of election-year recession growing

WASHINGTON — After a slow and stumbling start, official Washington is scrambling to try to prevent the unfolding mortgage crisis from pushing the country into recession during an election year. There is a strong feeling, though, that the government will need to do more to avert a financial ... Read More

Christmas blaze kills man

MCCLELLANVILLE — A 68-year-old man died inside his single-wide mobile home after it caught fire early Christmas morning, authorities said. William Winbush was home alone at 8572 Old Georgetown Road when the first emergency calls went out at 5:39 a.m., Charleston County Chief Deputy C... Read More

Chamber, local officials team to help Gransfors

SUMMERVILLE — Donations of temporary manufacturing space and surplus sewing equipment are being sought to help the Gransfors Bruks safety apparel firm recover from a devastating fire. The rapidly moving 7 p.m. Dec. 13 fire destroyed the sewing plant and shut down U.S. Highway 78 for several hours. ... Read More

Last-minute shoppers give retailers relief

NEW YORK — Just weeks ago, the holiday shopping season seemed headed for disaster. But in the waning hours before Christmas, the nation's retailers got their wish, a last-minute surge of shopping that was expected to help them meet modest sales goals. And with post-Christmas shopping... Read More

N. Chas. plans changes on towing

If your car has ever been towed, you know it can cost you a lot of time, money and energy to get it back. The city of North Charleston wants to do something about that. City Council recently discussed changing the towing procedures for the city. Deputy City Attorney Rich Lingenfelter said North Charleston is fielding increasing complaints from residents regarding escalating fees to get cars out of impound lots. ... Read More

The kindness of strangers

(From The New Orleans Times-Picayune, Dec. 5, 2007) Sometimes it seems that no outsider can possibly understand what we've been through during the past two years and how badly we want things to be made right. But there are some people who do seem to get it. U.S. Rep. James Clyburn of South Carolina is one. Actor Brad Pitt is another. ... Read More

Christmas 2007

This is the day when Christians around the world celebrate light in darkness, the renewal of hope, the gift of love, the power of reconciliation and the promise of "peace on Earth, good will to men." Nowhere on earth is this celebration more poignant than in what the Rev. Phillips Brooks, in a famous hymn, called the "little town of Bethlehem." ... Read More

In battle gear, amid war-scarred land, a sense of peace was found

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Mother charged after girl takes donation box

IRMO — Authorities say they have charged a Columbia woman with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and petit larceny after her daughter stole a donation box from an Irmo convenience store. Police say they aren't sure if Valerie Murphy told her 7-year-old daughter to steal the ... Read More

Troops' absences tough on holiday traditions

They say it's the most wonderful time of the year, but there are some who might feel otherwise. It's impossible to pick them out of a crowd. They're shopping at the mall, stopping by neighborhood Christmas parties with their kids, decorating their homes in red, white and blue lights. ... Read More

It's frosty, but definitely not a silent night

Carolers, other holiday touches help soldiers in Afghanistan who are longing for home

KABUL, Afghanistan — As the choir of U.S. Army soldiers sang a spirited "Frosty the Snowman" under a light evening snowfall in Afghanistan, Lt. Com. Lynne O'Neil bobbed in time and thought of her daughter, Anna. "I know my 2 1/2-year-old daughter's favorite song this year is 'Frosty,... Read More

Wednesday deadline for Democrats

Voter registrations postmarked by Dec. 26 will be honored

People who still haven't registered to vote and who want to vote in the Jan. 26 Democratic presidential primary still have time — just barely. While county voter registration offices are closed, they will honor voter registration applications that are postmarked by Wednesday. ... Read More

Evolution debate reignited in S.C.

State Board of Education might take up issue over biology book

COLUMBIA — The South Carolina Board of Education could end up debating evolution next month as it considers whether to endorse a high school biology textbook. The board withheld its support of the book at December's meeting, when board member Charles W. McKinney brought up dozens of ... Read More

A year of breaking rules, not records, in sports

2007 was a lousy year in sports unless you were a fan of the pro teams from Boston, the semipro ones from the University of Florida or the real-student athletes from Appalachian State. It wasn't so much about breaking records, even as Barry Bonds took down the most venerated mark of them a... Read More

Berkeley County looks into protecting trees

Council wants ordinance to help conserve 'rural integrity'

MONCKS CORNER — Protecting trees will be one of Berkeley County Council's top priorities next year. County officials say they need an ordinance to prevent developers from clear-cutting trees for subdivisions and replacing them with smaller trees. Officials can point to several instan... Read More

Deaths and Funerals

Michigan State benches 5 players for bowl

ORLANDO, Fla. — Defensive standouts Jonal Saint-Dic and SirDarean Adams are among five Michigan State players who will sit out the Champs Sports Bowl on Friday against No. 14 Boston College because of academic or other violations. The Spartans said Monday that Saint-Dic, a senior def... Read More

Gift from sisters' estate puts Good Cheer Fund past $344,000

The Post and Courier Good Cheer Fund has been blessed once again with a very special gift. A contribution of $74,702.86 has been received from the joint estate of three sisters — Mrs. William Clara Schirmer, Mrs. Matthew Evie Hertz and Miss Maud Seel, the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Louis See... Read More

Steelers place Parker on IR

NFL Notes PITTSBURGH — Willie Parker, the NFL's leading rusher when he broke his right leg Thursday night in St. Louis, was officially lost for the season when the Pittsburgh Steelers placed him on the injured reserve list Monday. Parker underwent surgery on hi... Read More

Little green laptop a hit in Peruvian village

Computer aimed at poor children in poor countries

ARAHUAY, Peru — Doubts about whether poor rural children really can benefit from quirky little computers evaporate as quickly as the morning dew in this hilltop Andean village, where 50 primary school children got machines from the One Laptop Per Child project six months ago. These o... Read More

Briefcase

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South Carolina, Clemson in good shape

The holidays bring some peace and quiet to the recruiting world for a couple of weeks. A "dead period" is in effect until early January and coaches are limited to just one phone call a week to prospects. South Carolina and Clemson are well past the halfway point in building their respecti... Read More

All-Lowcountry Football Team 2007

Summerville wide receiver A.J. Green won't reflect on his brilliant high school football career — just yet. "I haven't thought about it. I'll do that after I play my final game," said Green, who is scheduled to play in the Jan. 5 ESPNU All-American Game in Orlando, Fla. "I just love to compete." ... Read More

Ole Miss, Rhode Island break into men's poll

Last week's three big-time matchups caused plenty of movement in The Associated Press' college basketball poll Monday, except at the top. For the fourth straight week, North Carolina, Memphis and Kansas were the top three teams in the rankings. Then came the changes courtesy of the high-pr... Read More

3 state players on preseason list

Two University of South Carolina players and one from Clemson were named to the Louisville Slugger Preseason All-America team announced by Collegiate Baseball. Stratford High product Justin Smoak, a Gamecocks junior first baseman, and USC junior third baseman James Darnell were named to th... Read More

Charleston going greener

Energy savings among benefits

Charleston has launched a nearly $10 million effort to improve the city government's energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The plan follows recent efforts by Mayor Joe Riley to find ways to address global warming, but Chief Financial Officer Steve Bedard said the energy efficiency measures would make sense on purely economic terms. ... Read More

Deaths Summary

Blood donation still timely gift

Some people will get exactly what they want for Christmas today. Some won't. But many people are in dire need of a life-saving gift that predictably dwindles into short supply during this special time of the year. To replenish the stocks of that indispensable gift, give blood to the South Carolina Region of the American Red Cross. ... Read More

Dessert swap with ex-wife hard to swallow

Q My husband and I have been married two years. I have always heard what a she-devil the ex is. This past weekend their daughter graduated from college, and although I was dreading spending time with the ex-wife, I was determined to be pleasant for the daughter's sake. I told my husband that I thought we should treat her politely — on a business level — and he agreed. ... Read More

Ask Elsa

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Some snapshots of little ones who make this festive season so special

When we asked you to send in Baby's First Holiday photos, we received it all: from babies who are just a few days old to those who will be celebrating their first birthdays soon. There are reindeer, miniature Santas, elves and some in their Sunday best. Some grandparents, aunts and uncles sent in photos of babies who live in other cities but have Charleston connections. ... Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Santa revealed GMLc was wondering who Santa Claus was ... um, is. According to the Lone-Star Christmas connection Web site, Santa Claus is: --A merry old man with red and white clothes, who has ... --8 flying reindeer, later joined by Rudolph, a red-nose... Read More

A few tips to avoid germs this winter

Just in time for holiday traveling, your kids may have already delivered coal: the makings for strep throats, colds and the flu. What's worse: Exhaustion after tests and papers makes it tough for students' immune systems to shift into time-off mode. Industrious kids can succumb to a sickness they've fought off at school. ... Read More

Health worries arise over water bottles

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Catching his breath at a fitness club, Matt McHugh took a gulp of water from his trusty hard-plastic Nalgene bottle and pondered the idea of switching to an alternative made of glass, stainless steel or another kind of plastic. Worries about a hormone-mimicking chem... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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S.C. Lottery

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Foreigners at home in U.S.

Buyers from other countries flock to American real estate markets

NEW YORK — Panden Rota, a Nepalese producer of fine rugs, is about to become a Manhattanite, the owner of a sumptuous apartment in the luxurious downtown neighborhood of Battery Park City. His primary residence will remain Katmandu, but his new home will allow him to spend more time ... Read More

Hiker-biker trails on way to Dorchester Road

Jim Tuten says the newly completed section of Patriot Boulevard near Fort Dorchester High has greatly reduced the amount of early morning traffic spilling onto Dorchester Road from subdivisions such as Wescott and Coosaw Creek. Soon, North Charleston will begin construction on the first le... Read More

Training debate goes deepFederal regulations require 40 hours for underground miners

GALATIA, Ill. — After 17 years of fixing cars, Greg Rothchild found the money from carving coal out of the earth's innards simply too hard to pass up. The married 43-year-old father of two breezed through the 40 hours of training the federal government requires of new below-ground mi... Read More

Tigers' Oglesby nets ACC honor

College Basketball Notes GREENSBORO, N.C. — Clemson's Terrence Oglesby was selected as Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Week on Monday. Oglesby averaged 17.7 points and 2.7 assists per game in leading the Tigers to wins over Puerto Rico-Mayaguez and DePa... Read More

W. Ashley teacher charged with rape

Previously accused of harassing girls

A West Ashley High School teacher accused last month of making sexually suggestive comments to female students has been charged with raping a woman, the Charleston County Sheriff's Office said. Deputies arrested Scott Larue Knight, 39, Friday on charges of third-degree criminal sexual cond... Read More

USC attracts, exports more foreign students

COLUMBIA — More international students are enrolling at the University of South Carolina, and at the same time more Gamecocks are studying abroad, officials say. USC students studying outside the United States increased 151 percent to 734 last school year. The college has a goal of ... Read More

Protected Vehicles is closing for good

Rival says company plans to file for reorganization in Delaware

Just in time for Christmas, Protected Vehicles Inc. told its employees that its closing is permanent and it is "unable to continue production operations." Meanwhile, a rival maker of armored military vehicles claimed in a court filing that Protected Vehicles plans to file for reorganization under the federal bankruptcy code in Delaware rather than here. ... Read More

Holiday closings

CHARLESTON City offices will be closed today. There will be no garbage collection today, and collection will be pushed back a day the rest of the week. On Daniel Island and the Cainhoy peninsula, Thursday routes will be collected Friday, and Friday routes on Saturday. NORTH CHARLESTO... Read More

Furman to award more scholarships

University to increase number of Hollingsworth recipients to 25 a year

Furman University is expanding a scholarship program that officials say has attracted some of the state's best students to the Upstate school. The university has awarded 20 Hollingsworth Scholarships each year for the past two years. The scholarships give high-achieving students $25,000 each year at the university, where tuition, fees, and room and board cost about $40,000. ... Read More

Briefly

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Protected Vehicles layoffs to be permanent

Protected Vehicles Inc. has told its employees that its closing is permanent and it is "unable to continue production operations." Read More

Deaths and Funerals

Sobs, gasps, hugs and happiness

Few birthday gifts or Christmas presents are powerful enough to bring more than 100 people to tears. But there were sobs, gasps and hugs outside the North Charleston Holiday Inn on Sunday night as Stratford High School senior Brittany Riffe received the surprise of the holiday season. ... Read More

Panthers refuse to confirm report coach, GM will return

CHARLOTTE— John Fox's future in Carolina remained clouded Sunday, even after Panthers owner Jerry Richardson apparently gave his coach and general manager a vote of confidence. The NFL Network reported during Carolina's 20-13 loss to Dallas on Saturday that Richardson said in an off-... Read More

Drought turns Waccamaw's black water clear

MYRTLE BEACH — The black waters of the Grand Strand's Waccamaw River now run much clearer, thanks to a drought gripping much of the Southeast. The river usually gets its water from the Green Swamp in Brunswick County, N.C., and flows dark through Horry and Georgetown counties because... Read More

Rackers' kicks deal Atlanta tough loss

Cardinals 30, Falcons 27 (OT) TEMPE, Ariz. — Neil Rackers gained a measure of redemption and sent the Atlanta Falcons to another loss in their demoralizing season. Rackers kicked a 29-yard field goal as the fourth quarter ended to force overtime, then booted on... Read More

Gifts that keep on giving

Housing, economy, environment on leaders' minds this holiday season

Going into 2008, the outlook for the business climate in the nation and the Lowcountry is unusually cloudy. Rather than try to predict next year's economy, The Post and Courier asked local business leaders what they'd like to see Santa leave under their Christmas trees. These folks are all nice, not naughty, so we're sure Santa will be receptive to their wishes. Read More

In January, you can do a lot for $20

Be A Tourist in Your Own Town a cure for winter blues

Confession: I've never been to Fort Sumter. Read More

Benefit programs' urgent woes

Social Security is demonstrably in serious trouble over the long haul, as contributors to the fund decline in comparison to its recipients. So are Medicare and smaller entitlement programs. As Comptroller General David Walker said recently: "Our government has made a whole lot of promises ... Read More

Deaths Summary

Rhetoric met reality at Bali

Nobel Peace Prize winner and former Vice President Al Gore appeared at the world climate conference in Bali, Indonesia, recently and declared, "My own country, the United States, is principally responsible for obstructing progress here in Bali. We all know that." The comment drew applause, but in... Read More

Sobs, gasps, hugs and happiness

Few birthday gifts or Christmas presents are powerful enough to bring more than 100 people to tears.

But there were sobs, gasps and hugs outside the North Charleston Holiday Inn on Sunday night as Stratford High School senior Brittany Riffe received the surprise of the holiday season.
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Pirates upend Boise State

East Carolina 41, No. 24 Boise State 38 HONOLULU — Ben Hartman kicked a 34-yard field goal as time expired to give East Carolina a 41-38 win over No. 24 Boise State in the Hawaii Bowl on Sunday night. Chris Johnson set an NCAA bowl record with 408 all-purpose ... Read More

Key S.C. insurance figures to remain mystery for a while

It's a shame the powers that be can't pull these numbers together faster, because I think many people are interested in them. The most recent figures from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners show South Carolina ranked 16th in the nation on the list of the m... Read More

Pentagon budget dilemma

Defense Secretary Robert Gates is right to declare that Congress has made it very hard to manage his department efficiently by doling out money with short-term strings. Budget uncertainty is bad for any organization in the best of the times; for the Defense Department during a war, it is downrigh... Read More

Distinctions

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Variety of tuners can bring TV programs to your laptop

Q: How can I watch TV on my laptop, supposing I have cable or satellite? Read More

Executive Items

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Dogs sign 6 for 2009 baseball season

Stratford High School's Damon Ardis and Wando's Jim Johnson are among six players who signed national letters of intent to join The Citadel baseball program for the 2009 season. Ardis is a 6-2, 209-pound infielder who helped the Knights win the 2005 Class AAAA state championship. Johnson i... Read More

Port workers help out key customer

The fog that rolled into the Lowcountry for a couple of mornings earlier this month nearly threw a wet blanket on the holiday season for one of the state's most important private-sector businesses. It turns out the misty stuff caused a delay of "several days" for a Maersk ... Read More

Pair has comfort sewn up

Couple creates lovable collectibles

MYRTLE BEACH — You don't need lots of green to live a plush lifestyle. What you must have plenty of, however, is talent, time and a touch of who you were as a child. Jaci Hurst has all three sewn up in stitches. How else can she make stuffed animals adorable enough to m... Read More

Blackbaud employees contribute $25,000 to 2007 Good Cheer Fund

The largest gift to the Good Cheer Fund so far this Christmas season has been given by the employees of Blackbaud. Their contribution of $25,000 represents donations from individual employees and a company match. Read More

Schools expand comics art studies

CINCINNATI — As a fine arts graduate student in the early 1980s, Carol Tyler felt she had to hide her interest in cartoon drawing from teachers. An art form associated with comic books and comic strips wasn't considered college material. Now a professional cartoonist and graphic nove... Read More

A right whale of a sighting

Many more spotted this year

As soon as the plane took off, the survey team spotted two 40-ton mammoths slipping through the ocean just offshore of Isle of Palms.

Ten minutes later, three more right whales were spotted, then another one, then another. The three whales were playing, kicking up plumes off the bottom with their tails, chinning up on each other's backs. Ahead of them, dolphins spun and jumped in the water.
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Resolutions may be problem behind holiday bingeing

It's Christmas Eve and you may think the damage of holiday eating is done. Read More

United Wii stand in line

There are two groups of shoppers this Christmas Eve, relieved Santa helpers who successfully snagged a Nintendo Wii and those desperate souls still standing in line outside a store and inside the two-minute warning. Read More

Jaguars hammer Raiders, secure No. 5 seed for AFC playoffs

Jaguars 49, Raiders 11 JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville's locker room lacked its typical postgame victory celebration. The music, usually blaring, was merely background noise. The hootin' and hollerin', which often borders on obnoxious, was left on the field.... Read More

Cochlear implants used in extreme hearing loss

Q: My grandson was born with a severe hearing impairment, and he likely will receive a cochlear implant. How does a cochlear implant work? Could I get an implant to help with my age-related hearing loss? A: While a cochlear implant may make sense for your grandson, it's not an alternative t... Read More

It's the shoes, silly

A study by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society found that 88 percent of women in the United States wear shoes that are too small and 55 percent have bunions. Bunions are nine times more common in women than men. The most common cause of bun... Read More

Cancer survival, insurance linked

Uninsured cancer patients are nearly twice as likely to die within five years as those with private coverage, according to the first national study of its kind and one that sheds light on troubling health care obstacles. Read More

West Ashley Earth Fare still healthy

Rumors, dispel! The Earth Fare grocery store in West Ashley is not in danger of closing, company officials said last week. Read More

Clemson's line looking to make a name for itself

A starter of 44 consecutive games, Barry Richardson has grown to take some ownership of his offensive line.

He pays attention to what is said and written about the guys up front. And this season, he hasn't heard or read many glowing reviews.
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Studio taking indoor cycling to new level

With another New Year's resolutions cycle just eight days away, more people are understanding that the simple formula of exercising at least three times a week, 30 minutes at a time, just won't get you in shape for the long haul.

Few things in life are that much of a no-brainer. After all, each individual reacts differently to how much and how hard he exercises because of the variations in age, gender, eating habits, mental outlook, and medical, exercise and family histories. The fact of the matter is that exercise for the mainstream is getting more sophisticated as innovators in the industry find solutions for people to work out more efficiently.
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It's easy to extend your frequent-flier programs

Q: My frequent-flier accounts have been inactive for too long, and my miles are going to go down the drain. What's an inexpensive last-minute save? A: Inactivity periods can creep up on frequent-flier members, especially since some major airlines have been reducing the amount of time fliers... Read More

Patriots top Dolphins, one win from regular season perfection

Records aren't important to the Patriots, not yet anyway.

Not finishing the season at 16-0. Not becoming the highest scoring team in NFL history. And not Tom Brady and Randy Moss setting individual marks.
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Hollywood man struck by car dies

A Hollywood man died early Sunday morning after he was struck by a car while crossing Savannah Highway. Curtis Sanders, 44, died on the scene from a head injury, Charleston County Deputy Coroner Bobbi Jo O'Neal said. The incident occurred at 1:30 a.m. in front of 2957 Savannah High... Read More

Week in Review

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Hill guides Niners past Bucs

49ers 21, Buccaneers 19 SAN FRANCISCO — When the playoff-bound Tampa Bay Buccaneers decided to get some rest, Shaun Hill and the San Francisco 49ers kept working for another late-season win. Hill passed for 123 yards and three touchdowns to remain unbeaten as a... Read More

Recalls this week

The following product recalls were announced last week; details are available at www.cpsc.gov: Read More

Has time taken toll on Folly edifice?

Those unfamiliar with the history of this island might view the abandoned wooden building at Folly and Sol Legare roads as something that probably should be torn down before it falls down.

But others see it as an important relic, a bit of Folly's soul that dates to its earliest days, before it was divided into lots, before the waves of tourists, before all the condos.
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Letters to the Editor

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Salvation Army thrift store to close

3 women will lose jobs when Summerville site shuts down at end of January

Glenda Atkinson is a 56-year-old widow with multiple sclerosis, and she is about to lose her job. Read More

Riley to take over as president of Realtors' board

The first day of 2008 marks a fresh beginning and a change in leadership for those who serve on the board of the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors. Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Are you ready for the noise, South Carolina? Read More

At noon, try dinner at Virginia's on King; have supper later

There isn't much else more Southern than calling lunch "dinner" and dinner "supper," but that's the order of things at Virginia's on King, the latest culinary brainchi