FBI: Egyptian students were carrying fireworks, not bombs

The FBI said two Egyptian college students arrested near a South Carolina Navy weapons station last year were carrying low-grade fireworks as they claimed, and not dangerous explosives as charged by federal prosecutors. Read More

Baptists called to action

Thirty-one organizations, including the four main black Baptist conventions, are participating in the three-day convocation, organized by former President Jimmy Carter, Mercer University President William D. Underwood and others. The event was conceived to engender unity among a diverse body of Baptists and to offer a counterweight to the Southern Baptist Convention, the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S. with more than 16 million members, whose conservative political agenda has alienated many believers. Read More

Shorter menu could be big for Mt. Pleasant pizza eatery

Is the southern end of Coleman Boulevard becoming Mount Pleasant's Little Italy? Read More

School of the Arts

The College of Charleston School of the Arts has scheduled programs. January Historic Preservation & Community Planning Lecture: Sustainable Development. Donovan Rypkema. 7 p.m. today in room 309, Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Free. Call 953-3888... Read More

Wachovia CEO rules out new acquisitions

CHARLOTTE — Wachovia Corp.'s chief executive said Wednesday that he isn't interested in growing Wachovia through a major acquisition in 2008. Instead, Ken Thompson said the focus is on integrating the Charlotte bank's two most recent purchases, retail brokerage firm AG Edwards Inc. a... Read More

Clubs

Bonds-Wilson alumni The Bonds-Wilson Alumni Association will have a breakfast meeting at 9:30 a.m. Feb. 9 at Ryan's Family Steakhouse, 829 St. Andrews Blvd. The meeting will include planning activities for the year. Call C. Donna Harris at 207-1063 or Judy Miller at ... Read More

Business Briefs

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Five Points development a good plan for James Island

Some who live on streets off Maybank Highway near the Five Points intersection chose to live there because it's within walking distance of businesses, such as the Terrace Theatre and Athens Greek Restaurant. There aren't many James Island neighborhoods where residents can walk to a shoppin... Read More

Starting Friday

AARP names locations for Tax-Aide program

Following are AARP Tax-Aide sites for 2007 tax returns: --Summerville Senior Center: 312 N. Laurel St., Summerville. 1-4 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays; 1-7 p.m. Fridays; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, through April 14. Appointments only. Call 871-5053. --Dorchester County Library: 76 Old Tro... Read More

Woman tormented by killings

First her son, then a nephew die in cases that remain unsolved

The street lights blinked on and off in the wee hours of the morning as deputies processed the crime scene. At times, they were in complete darkness as the young man's body lay in the road with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Read More

Center for Creative Retirement

The College of Charleston Center for Creative Retirement has scheduled spring classes on Tuesdays during the academic year at St. Joseph's Family Life Center, 1695 Raoul Wallenberg Blvd., West Ashley. Dues are $25. Contact Claire Robinson at 953-5488 or robinsonc@cofc.edu. Feb. 5Read More

When it comes to oysters, Bryce is chicken

When shucking an oyster, carefully place your knife about an inch away from the hinge, and then, using your other hand, throw the thing as far as you can. Seriously. Chuck it and run. Oysters taste terrible. And anybody who tells you otherwise is lying through their teeth or a rock crab. Read More

Clubs

Bonds-Wilson alumni The Bonds-Wilson Alumni Association will have a breakfast meeting 9:30 a.m. Feb. 9 at Ryan's Family Steakhouse, 829 St. Andrews Blvd. Call C. Donna Harris at 207-1063 or Judy Miller at 747-6819. Fleet Reserve 269 The Fleet R... Read More

Mark your calendar

Get Out events and things to do. Read more ... Read More

Leaving debate with more questions than answers

A week ago last Monday, I had the pleasure of being invited to Myrtle Beach to attend the Democratic Presidential Primary debate, sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and televised by CNN. It was the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday and the weather was cold by South Carolina... Read More

Poetry Society

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

Murray-LaSaine students collect items for pets

Dogs and cats awaiting adoption at the Pet Helpers Rescue and Animal Shelter on Folly Road now have 238 more items to enjoy, including toys, leashes, blankets and food, thanks to donations from Murray-LaSaine Elementary School. Students in Elizabeth Woods' third-grade class came up with th... Read More

Triathlon: Burn calories, not fossil fuel

Off-road means different things to different people. On Saturday morning, it will be a little trail mud, some chilly water and a little sweat to probably 100 or so people participating in the third annual Winter Challenge Off-Road Triathlon at 10 a.m. Saturday at Dome Farms, Springfield (near Orangeburg). ... Read More

Happenings

Squadron to take part in flea market The Charleston Unit of the United States Sail and Power Squadron will participate in West Marine's annual flea market with marine items at bargain prices and vessel safety checks 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 9 at the West Marine store parking lot,... Read More

High School Jazz Band will jam for the adults

Young people sometimes know what older ones want. Under the direction of their leader and other adults, the 26 students in the SOA High School Jazz Band thinks they have something for grown-ups who like to dance and have a good time. Read More

Kentucky tennis player wins Family Circle Cup contest

Joanna Hall of Lexington, Ky., won the fifth annual Family Circle Cup official T-shirt design contest. Hall, 26, an avid tennis player who participates in United States Tennis Association league play throughout the year, plans to attend the tournament with all of her teammates. The ... Read More

Latest Democratic debate left more questions than answers

A week ago last Monday, I had the pleasure of being invited to Myrtle Beach to attend the Democratic Presidential Primary debate, sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and televised by CNN. It was the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday and the weather was cold by South Carolina... Read More

Clubs

Poetry Society The Poetry Society of South Carolina will present Alice Friman at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting St., downtown Charleston. The program is free and open to the public. A reception and book signing will follow the rea... Read More

Happenings

Bible study series planned by church Holmes Avenue Baptist Church, 4602 Durant Ave., North Charleston, will hold a Bible study that begins Sunday and runs for 10 weeks. The study, to be held 4-6 p.m., will be taught by Dr. Ann Bell. The cost is $15, which includes an... Read More

Redux classes

Redux Contemporary Art Center, 136 St. Philip St., has scheduled the following classes. Intro to Printmaking: Feb. 3-17, Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Instructor: Julie Henson. $150 nonmembers/$125 members. Beginner's class to expose the student to the print studio. Group will begin with basic monopri... Read More

Briefly

Happenings

Winter Westwalk scheduled in I'On A Winter Westwalk in the I'On Community in Mount Pleasant will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 9. The guided walk will cover the Westwalk I'On, a 3.8-mile walking trail covering the western half of the neotraditional neighborhood's trail and ... Read More

CLUBS

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. Celebrate Library Lovers' Month: Feb. 1-29. Help the librarian find her way through the maze to the book... Read More

Dealing with 'home-grown' terrorists

Parviz Khan, a British citizen and charity worker, knew exactly what he wanted to do. As the prosecutor of one of the most gruesome terrorist plots on record told a London court this week, Khan was "so enraged by the idea that there were Muslim soldiers in the British Army" that he planned to murder one of them "by having his head cut off like a pig." ... Read More

Isle of Palms rec

The Isle of Palms Recreation Department offers the following activities. Registration required for most events. Call 886-8294 or visit www.iop.net. FRIDAY NIGHT HOOPS: Girls and boys, ages 9-12. 6-8:45 p.m. Session 2: Feb. 15. Register by Feb. 13. $30 per athlete. Conducte... Read More

Happenings

Bible study series planned by church Holmes Avenue Baptist Church, 4602 Durant Ave., North Charleston, will hold a Bible study that begins Sunday and runs for 10 weeks. The study, to be held 4-6 p.m., will be taught by Dr. Ann Bell. The cost is $15, which includes an... Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Hamfest calls radio operators to Ladson

OK, don't start drooling. Hamfest has nothing to do with pork, but rather amateur radio operators, aka "ham radio" operators. The Charleston Amateur Radio Society will hold its 35th annual Hamfest 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at the Exchange Park Fairgrounds in Ladson. ... Read More

Health care breakthrough

Small businesses struggling with the high cost of health insurance for their employees have received a needed boost from the Legislature with passage of a bill allowing them to form cooperatives for coverage to reduce their costs. The bill would allow businesses of 50 or fewer employees to contract for health care insurance as a single entity to reduce expenses and administrative costs. ... Read More

Polling places

Below are the polling sites for the Feb. 5 Republican Primary for S.C. House District Seat 92. --Carnes Crossroads 2: Pineridge Fire Department, 565 Myers Road, Goose Creek. --Devon Forest: Devon Forest Elementary School, 1127 Dorothy St., Goose Creek. --Sangaree 1 and 2: San... Read More

3 candidates vie in race for S.C. House

GOP primary winner will be unopposed

Three candidates will face off Tuesday in the Republican primary for the state House District 92 seat. Goose Creek Mayor Pro Tem Joe Daning, Berkeley County School Board member Jimmy Hinson and registered nurse Ellen Cook are vying for the seat vacated by Shirley Hinson. ... Read More

Chew on This

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DO YOU KNOW: Jessica Tyndall

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3 charged at Clemson fraternity

WALHALLA — Three fraternity members at Clemson University were charged with alcohol-related misdemeanors after a freshman died of alcohol poisoning during an off-campus party, a prosecutor said Wednesday. The students' activities did not directly lead to the death of 18-year-old Benj... Read More

DO YOU KNOW: Patrick Graves

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Tisdale gets Koon Award

Neighbors call her 'Mrs. Northbridge'

Sara-Gantt Tisdale moved from Broad Street to Northbridge Terrace nearly 50 years ago. She raised her three children there and watched the neighborhood grow, too — from four homes to nearly 400. Tisdale cares about the area, and she isn't about to sit idly by and watch it fall apart. ... Read More

Deaths Summary

Carolopolis awards to be announced

The Preservation Society of Charleston will hold its annual meeting tonight, when it also will announce the winners of this year's Carolopolis awards, which are presented for excellence in restoration and new construction. The meeting, which is free and open to the public, begins at 7 p.m.... Read More

Restaurant's Obama sign criticized

COLUMBIA — An NAACP leader on Wednesday blasted a South Carolina restaurant owner for a sign that mentioned Democratic presidential candidate Illinois Sen. Barack Obama on the same line as a dark and white meat chicken dinner special. "Either it's the most insidious form of racism im... Read More

About Your Lowcountry

Have an item about an upcoming event, a club meeting or an announcement of community interest to publicize? The Post and Courier has made it easier than ever to get your local news in the paper. Send us your information, along with your name and phone number. E-mail sent to Read More

Man killed by train believed to have been walking along tracks

ST. STEPHEN — A 49-year-old man was struck and killed by a train Tuesday night while apparently walking home from a convenience store, authorities said. It is the third fatal incident involving a train in Berkeley County in the past 15 days, officials said. Berkeley County Cor... Read More

2nd trial nets 50 years for gunman in 2006 slaying

A Charleston man was sentenced to 50 years behind bars for murder Wednesday, closing a case that became entangled in a controversial deadlocked jury last year. After deliberating for less than two hours, the jury in Ashante Ishmael Wright's retrial found him guilty of the June 2006 shootin... Read More

Event gives teens' self-confidence a boost

A 1981 hit by ELO, now heard in a car commercial, urges: "Hold on tight to your dreams." That's exactly what Summerville High School's Brittany Hopkins expects to do, thanks to a little added inspiration from the first Disney Dreamers Academy. ... Read More

By George, UNC Asheville's big man worth a trip

Ranking the top five freshmen in the Big South Conference: Read More

Man who was pulled from water dies

MOUNT PLEASANT — A man was found unconscious and floating in Charleston Harbor near Patriots Point on Wednesday afternoon, and he later was pronounced dead. Firefighters were called to the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina on Patriots Point Road about 4 p.m. for a report of a man ... Read More

Eastern Star praised for Relay for Life work

The members of the 15th District Order of the Eastern Star recently were presented with a plaque memorializing an "All Star Team" for the 2007 Charleston County Relay for Life by raising more than $1,100 for the cause. Kristen Tufts, community manager for the American Cancer Society, South... Read More

Seasonal gas ingredient likely to fuel sky-high prices at pump

Get ready for another surge in gasoline prices.
Experts are predicting pump prices, which jumped by almost a dollar a gallon in each of the past two springs in many parts of the United States, will spike again this year as refiners and gas stations switch from winter- to summer-blended fuels. Read More

Passionate 'El Cid' gets deluxe DVD

Rodrigo DÃ-az de Vivar (1044-1099) is among the most heroic figures of Spanish history. Read More

Folly looks at 'safe swimming zone'

Folly Beach City Council has postponed voting on an ordinance to declare a "safe swimming zone" from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West that would prohibit surfboards, skim boards and motorized watercraft from being used in the area. ... Read More

Hot Tickets

Best bets for the coming week Read More

Consultant, PSD discuss employee interviews

James Island Public Service District employees soon will be asked several questions about the workplace environment by management consultant Joan K. Ustin. One specific question, at the request of PSD commissioners, will be: Have you ever experienced racial discrimination at work? ... Read More

School of the Arts

The College of Charleston School of the Arts has scheduled the following programs. January Historic Preservation & Community Planning Lecture: Sustainable Development. Donovan Rypkema. Today, 7 p.m. Room 309, Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Free. S... Read More

Library programs

This President might change the world

Jermel President sees the world as it really is and wants to make it better.
He knows how to do that because he came from the world as it really is. And with the help of others, he found a way to make himself better. Read More

Gamecocks finally hold onto a late lead, reach .500

Dave Odom walked into South Carolina's locker room late Wednesday night expecting smiles. He found sighs instead.

The Gamecocks had finally held onto a second-half lead. But it wasn't easy. Especially without their leader doing his thing. Read More

Briefly

Good Morning Lowcountry

Bold energy alternatives

The recent drop in U.S. gas prices leads too many gullible Americans to believe that the era of cheap oil might not be over after all. But few Europeans seem to buy that optimistic notion. Acting on the grimly justifiable assumption that fossil-fuel costs will continue to soar over the long term, they're even coming up with a dazzling array of creative — even bizarre — initiatives to produce alternative forms of energy. ... Read More

Chorus to deliver 'Singing Valentines'

Quartets from the Charleston Barbershop Chorus again will deliver "Singing Valentines" from Feb. 14 to 16 throughout the tri-county area. Wearing black pants, red-and-white-striped vests and black bowties, the a cappella quartets will visit restaurants, schools, offices or homes to sing tw... Read More

Planning Commission OKs 2 zoning requests

The James Island Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of two rezoning requests for developers JL Woode to build a bank and nearby shopping center at Maybank Highway and Woodland Shores Road. The rezoning requests will be sent to Town Council for approval. ... Read More

Berkeley hires firm to direct 3 school projects

District wants to build 1 facility, add on to 2 others

The Berkeley County school board has selected a construction management firm to oversee the building of three school projects. Read More

Hikers crave Half Dome's fame

One of most popular day treks in the nation takes careful planning to scale Yosemite peak

YOSEMITE VALLEY, Calif. — The legend says the name of the native American woman was Tesaiyac. She fled from an angry husband long ago through the High Sierra in what is now central California. Her footsteps became the Merced River in what is now Yosemite National Park. ... Read More

Opacic lifts Furman over Citadel

Alex Opacic was the oldest and biggest kid on the playground Wednesday night. And like the biggest kid usually does, the 6-10 junior from Australia had his way with The Citadel's kiddie corps. Read More

Bella Pizza

Bella Pizza builds its menu around Mediterranean and Italian fare on President Street, near Hammond Field and Burke High School. Read More

High School Results

Suspect waits for bond to be set on 3 of 4 charges

An 18-year-old accused of raping a clerk at the Queen Street Grocery on Saturday morning and robbing the store will not be able to post bail right away on three of four charges against him. Ronald Mark Simmons of North Charleston appeared in Charleston County Bond Court on Wednesday aftern... Read More

Illegal immigrants bill advances

Legislation backer says it's what voters want; foe sees thin veil for racism

A statewide onslaught against illegal immigrants passed the first of three major hurdles Wednesday, but critics argued that it's nothing more than "feel-good" legislation that panders to South Carolinians frustrated by Congress' failure to act.

Meanwhile, some immigration advocates find the state legislation a thin veil for racism.

"Anytime you pass a bill that the public is very vocal about wanting, someone is going to say legislators are pandering," said House Speaker Bobby Harrell, R-Charleston, who is lead sponsor of the bill. "The reality is, we're just responding to what our constituents have said they want to see done. Read More

City rec update

The Charleston Department of Recreation has scheduled the following events. Call 724-7327 or e-mail recreation@ci.charleston.sc.us for a brochure with a listing of all events and services. For information on events or programs offered by specific department locations, call the numbers listed or ... Read More

Gang study recommendations already in use in Lowcountry

Findings released Wednesday by a gang prevention committee will help agencies across the state launch a coordinated attack against gang activity, but many of the suggestions already are being put to use in the Lowcountry, local officials said. ... Read More

Top Montessori researcher to lecture, sign books today

Angeline Lillard, Ph.D., the leading Montessori researcher and author of the best-selling book, "Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius," is making a one-time appearance in Charleston. The lecture and book-signing event will be held 7-9 p.m. today at the Charleston Marriott Hotel, 170 L... Read More

Sheriff hopeful, Nash longtime pals

Retiring sheriff explains endorsement

So what is the connection between Dorchester County Sheriff Ray Nash, who announced his retirement plans Tuesday, and Folly Beach Public Safety Director Terry Boatwright, the man Nash endorsed as his successor? 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 are $2... Read More

SPA to examine Veterans port

Consultant to determine best ways to modernize site for future business

The State Ports Authority plans to hire a consultant next month to examine how best to modernize its Veterans Terminal, a move that could create new jobs at the waterfront. Read More

Organizations offer tax assistance

Charleston County residents can get free tax preparation assistance at nine Charleston County Public Library locations from AARP and the Volunteer Income Assistance Program. The volunteers have set hours to help residents with 2008 returns. VITA's Tax Service is targeted to low-to-m... Read More

College of Charleston students party at Kresse Arena for Children's Hospital

The music was loud and the venue was filled with College of Charleston students partying to their hearts' content. A typical Friday night for many students, but with a difference. It was in the John Kresse Arena, a campus facility, and was certainly more well-lit than the places people often go on a Friday night. ... Read More

Southerners are not adept when it comes to being brief

When it comes to saying a few words, Southerners are not very good at it. We find it difficult to limit our comments to several utterances. You say, "Good morning," and we don't seem to be able to say simply, "Yes, isn't it?" More times than not, we will add additional comments, such... Read More

'Pigs on the Patio' book signing Feb. 9-10

Liz Tucker, a longtime Lowcountry resident, will sign her new memoir, "Pigs on the Patio," at two area locations Feb. 9-10. Tucker will sign her book 2-4 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Barnes & Noble store in West Ashley. She'll be at the Berkeley Museum, 950 Stony Landing Road, Moncks Corner, 2-4... Read More

School of the Arts

The College of Charleston School of the Arts has scheduled the following programs. January Historic Preservation & Community Planning Lecture: Sustainable Development. Donovan Rypkema. Today at 7 p.m. Room 309, Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Free.... Read More

Charleston County parks

For some Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission activities, a chaperon is required for participants 15 and younger. Registration is required for all programs and some special events. Call 795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com to register. Programs Early Morning B... Read More

Film Year 2008: Reunion Central

Reunited, and it feels so good. Reunited, and it's understood. Why Hollywood does it, that is. Big buzz, and even bigger bucks. Read More

Folly River Park work continues

Work is continuing on upgrades at Folly River Park. Folly Beach received more than $400,000 in grant money and donations for improvements to Folly River Park, said Folly Beach City Administrator Toni Connor-Rooks, and the tabby walkway being built will cost about $43,000. In additio... Read More

Quartets to 'deliver' valentines

Quartets from the Charleston Barbershop Chorus again will deliver "Singing Valentines" from Feb. 14-16 throughout the tri-county area. Wearing black pants, red-and-white-striped vests and black bow ties, the a cappella quartets will visit restaurants, schools, offices or homes to sing two ... Read More

Poetry society

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

Area tax assistance locations listed

Charleston County residents can get free tax preparation assistance at nine Charleston County Public Library locations from AARP and the Volunteer Income Assistance Program. The volunteers have set hours to help residents with 2008 returns. VITA's Tax Service is targeted to low-to-m... Read More

Blessing festival seeks more sponsors

People who've wanted to support a centuries-old tradition of blessing the fleet but haven't wanted to plunk down a lot of cash for the town festival will have an alternative this year. Mount Pleasant has created a new $50 sponsorship level for its 21st annual Ttown of Mount Pleasant Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival. ... Read More

Observatory open house to have eye on sky

In the winter, Orion the Hunter stretches across the sky with club and shield raised as he takes on Taurus the bull. Orion's faithful hunting dogs are his eternal companions in this constant battle. You can witness this encounter for yourself Friday night at the College of Charleston's observatory, which will be open to the public. ... Read More

Clubs

Folly Beach run to help Save the Light

After a year hiatus, the Save the Light Half Marathon and 5K returns to Folly Beach at 8:30 a.m. Saturday to support preservation of the Morris Island lighthouse. ... Read More

Ask Elsa

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Letters to the Editor

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Coastal Exploration starts Feb. 14

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources again is hosting the Coastal Exploration Series this winter and spring in the Lowcountry. The series, which is free, kicks off Valentine's Day. ... Read More

DO YOU KNOW: Tina Hammond

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Neighbors aid robbery victim

Park Circle residents raised more than $3,500 during a community fundraiser Saturday to help uninsured shopkeeper Mike Torres with his medical expenses after he was shot during an armed robbery before Thanksgiving. Torres' medical expenses exceeded $18,000 after he was shot Nov. 17 as he ... Read More

Dr. Martin Perlmutter gets service to humanity award

Brith Sholom Beth Israel Congregation recently recognized Dr. Martin Perlmutter with the Aaron Solomon Memorial Award for Service to Humanity. Perlmutter, who serves as the director of the Jewish Studies Program at the College of Charleston, was recognized for his numerous contributions to... Read More

Nightlife

James Island --Necter: 951 Folly Road. 762-9333. Friday, Medicine Hat, 9:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dave Berry, 9:30 p.m. --Buffalo South: 1409 Folly Road. 406-0888. Tuesdays and Thursdays trivia at 8 p.m. --Frankie Biggs: 1175 Folly Road. 225-4030. Thursday, trivia; ... Read More

Jacobs trying to point something out

For a while, the Patriots were calling nose tackle Vince Wilfork "Fingers" after his actions in the team's regular-season finale against the Giants. That's when he poked Giants running back Brandon Jacobs in the eye, a move that cost him $15,000 in fine money. Read More

Three vying for S.C. House Dist. 92 in Tuesday's Republican primary

Three candidates will face off Tuesday in the Republican primary for the state House District 92 seat. Goose Creek Mayor Pro Tem Joe Daning, Berkeley County School Board member Jimmy Hinson and registered nurse Ellen Cook are vying for the seat vacated by Shirley Hinson. ... Read More

Grier will show latest works at Carolina Galleries

Grier studied at the Savannah Branch of the School of Visual Arts. In 1998 he went to New York City to earn his bachelor degree, and had the opportunity to study with Steven Asseal and Anthony Palliser, while also doing quite a few commission paintings. Grier's first commission was actually a portrait for Sean "P-Diddy" Combs. He also worked for over a year as an art assistant in the studio of pop artist Jeff Koons. Read More

Efforts shifting as field narrows

Some in S.C. still hope to sway race

The decisions by former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani to bow out of the presidential race Wednesday rippled through South Carolina in subtle but significant ways. Read More

Councilman says vagrants a problem

Folly Beach Councilman Eddie Ellis said that the city has experienced an increase in vagrants and other homeless people living under houses, breaking into homes and bothering residents. Public Safety Director Terry Boatwright said that aside from a few isolated incidents, he has no knowledge of a vagrant problem on the beach. ... Read More

DO YOU KNOW: Kristen McMullen

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Local soldier killed in bomb attack in Iraq

A Hollywood man on his second tour of duty with the U.S. Army in Iraq was one of five soldiers killed in a roadside bomb attack Monday, the military said Wednesday.

Sgt. James Edward Craig, 26, and the four other men died from wounds suffered when their convoy struck an improvised explosive device in Mosul, Iraq.

One report described the attack as a bomb-and-bullets attack.

The men were assigned to 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colo.

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S.C. Senate aims to spur Congress to act on immigration

As part of a multifaceted approach to illegal immigration, the state Senate on Wednesday issued a call for a national constitutional convention in a strategy aimed at forcing Congress to act. Read More

Now's the time for Super sales of HDTV sets

Men would rather watch the Super Bowl on a great home theater than enjoy the game in the company of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, according to a poll by Best Buy. Read More

Myths behind mulch amounts, proximity to trees

Q We need an expert opinion on this one. Our homeowners' association sent out letters to many homeowners over Christmas week requesting they add more mulch to their beds. They want pine straw or mulch in all beds on everyone's property. The majority of people in our neighborhood use pine straw bu... Read More

Snipping away at colon cancer

Black salons, barbershops to educate clients about life-saving tests

A woman shares more with her hairstylist than the natural color of her hair. Health and family are frequent topics of conversation in salons. Read More

Defending state champs advance to third round

Patriots cruise past Warrriors in AAAA playoffs

The Fort Dorchester Patriots used the strength of their lineup to plow through the Wando Warriors, 55-21, and advance to the third round of the AAAA wrestling playoffs with an eye toward defending their state championship. Read More

Decade's worth of great Stingrays

The ECHL is celebrating its 20th anniversary and the South Carolina Stingrays are commemorating their 15th season in the league. Read More

Workshops for parents are planned

Charleston County School District is holding a series of parent workshops. Register for these free workshops by calling Kay Ciganovic at 937-6483 or e-mail kay_ciganovic@charleston.k12.sc.us. --Jan. 31: Preschool Talk Series: Social Interactions by Keri Bowers and ... Read More

Leaving debate with more questions than answers

A week ago last Monday, I had the pleasure of being invited to Myrtle Beach to attend the Democratic Presidential Primary debate, sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus Institute and televised by CNN. It was the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday and the weather was cold by South Carolina... Read More

This Week

There's a sweet tenderness found in the vocal weavings of Adam and Shannon Wright. The duo's voices intertwine so naturally it sounds like fate. Read More

Sangaree teacher killed in wreck

Woman was not wearing seat belt during collision

A wreck Wednesday killed a veteran teacher on her morning commute to school. Rebecca "Becky" Newman, 58, of North Charleston, was an eighth-grade science teacher at Sangaree Middle School and had spent 37 years as an educator. Read More

School of the Arts

The College of Charleston School of the Arts has scheduled the following programs. January Historic Preservation & Community Planning Lecture: Sustainable Development. Donovan Rypkema. Today at 7 p.m. Room 309, Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Free.... Read More

'Pigs on the Patio' author plans 2 book signings

Liz Tucker, a longtime Lowcountry resident, will be signing her new memoir, "Pigs on the Patio," at two area locations Feb. 9 and 10. Tucker will sign her book 2-4 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Barnes & Noble store in West Ashley. She'll be at the Berkeley Museum, 950 Stony Landing Road, Moncks C... 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. Membership dues for January-May are $25. Contact Claire Robinson ... Read More

10 CSU teacher candidates honored for test scores

The School of Education at Charleston Southern University announced 10 teacher candidates who earned the distinction of ETS Recognition of Excellence because of their high scores on the Praxis II: Performance of Learning and Teaching assessment. One student, Michael Lane, earned his distin... Read More

Fulghum Lecture Series

Modern Southern politics and the civil rights movement take center stage at The Citadel this spring during the Fulghum Lecture Series. The Fulghum Lecture Series was created by the Southern Studies Program within The Citadel Department of History to promote a better understanding of the Am... Read More

A new face on Shem Creek bar scene

Creekside Bar & Grill is one of the newest bar/restaurants on Shem Creek, and might be considered one of the most unique in the area. Read More

Charleston Music Fest off to exciting opening

The Charleston Music Fest's exciting opening of its three-day chamber music celebration "Extravaganza!" began Wednesday night in Randolph Hall at the College of Charleston. A creation of two School of the Arts music professors, Lee-Chin and Natalia Khoma, this is the fest's second year, fe... Read More

Head2Head Trivia

Is there anyone out there NOT excited about the Super Bowl this year? Read More

Events

Deaths and Funerals

Reminders that drivers can be intolerant of cyclists

When I heard the report on CNN a week ago, my worst fear about bicycling on roads was confirmed: The anger of some motorists toward cyclists goes beyond the inconvenience of sharing pavement. In Arizona, a judge sentenced 27-year-old Melissa Arrington to more than 10 years, ... for negligent homicide and two counts of aggravated DUI for running into and killing cyclist Paul L'Ecuyer on Dec. 1, 2006. ... Read More

Flashback

Entertainment highlights during the week of Feb. 3-9. Read More

As romantic comedies go, 'Dead Body' somewhat stiff

That narrow window in which TV stars have to pick a plum film project to shoot around their ongoing "day jobs" provides a ready excuse for "Over Her Dead Body," a wan, sad-eyed romantic comedy that has Eva Longoria Parker playing a ghost who tries to keep a psychic from unscrupulously taking up with her fiance. Read More

Get out and volunteer to clean up forest

The Francis Marion National Forest and Palmetto Pride are looking for volunteers, groups and individuals to help with Forest Cleanup Day 8 a.m.-noon Saturday. The effort includes removing litter and cleaning up illegal dump sites throughout the forest. ... Read More

Go bananas during the Bridge Run

The Cooper River Bridge Run is just a little more than two months away, but efforts to raise money for a good cause are already under way. The third annual "Banana Bridge Run" will take place during the 31st Cooper River Bridge Run and Walk on April 5. ... Read More

College of Charleston students party at Kresse Arena for Children's Hospital

The music was loud and the venue was filled with College of Charleston students partying to their hearts' content. A typical Friday night for many students, but with a difference. It was in the John Kresse Arena, a campus facility, and was certainly more well-lit than the places people often go on a Friday night. ... Read More

Closing may be on horizon for business tenants

If a redevelopment plan being discussed becomes a reality, Budiroes' "open" sign might have to be replaced with "Going out of business." Ronnie Johnson, who opened Budiroes Music Bar & Grill two years ago on the Isle of Palms, said he couldn't afford to close even temporarily if the strip eventually is torn down to make way for an updated building. ... Read More

Always humble, songwriter enjoys growing success

Maybe it's Corey Smith's Southern Georgia upbringing that keeps him so humble and down to Earth. Or maybe it's his innate ability to write and sing about subjects that are so close to home. But whatever the reason is, it's working. Read More

Local soldier killed in Iraq

A Hollywood man on his second tour of duty with the U.S. Army in Iraq was one of five soldiers killed in a roadside bomb attack Monday, the military said Wednesday. ... Read More

Victim of fatal morning wreck spent 37 years teaching children

A wreck today killed a veteran teacher on her morning commute to school. Read More

Gov. Sanford Issues Statement on Passage of Immigration Reform

John Edwards drops out in New Orleans

John Edwards dropped out of the race in New Orleans, the town where he began his presidential campaign.

Edwards said Clinton and Obama had both pledged that "they will make ending poverty central to their campaign for the presidency."

North Charleston Police investigate two separate auto fatalities

Police are investigating two auto fatalities. Read More

State cracks down on illegal immigrants in bill passed by S.C. House

Illegal workers' bill is passed by the state House with 15 amendments. It is called a "feel-good" bill by detractors. Read More

Giuliani to exit presidential race today

Following his third place finish in Florida, former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani is expected to drop out of the presidential race today and endorse Sen. John McCain. Last night, Giuliani stopped short of announcing he was stepping down, but delivered a valedictory speech that was more farewell than fight-on. Read More

SC legislator: Underage military should be able to drink alcohol

A South Carolina lawmaker says underage military servicemen and women should be allowed to drink alcohol. Read More

John Edwards to quit presidential race

Democrat John Edwards is exiting the presidential race Wednesday, ending a scrappy underdog bid in which he steered his rivals toward progressive ideals while grappling with family hardship that roused voters' sympathies, The Associated Press has learned. Read More

A lesson in turtles

Students donate funds for rescue efforts

First-grader Nicole Salomon crouched down on her knees and peered into a glass window. Within moments she was face to face with a 305-pound loggerhead turtle recovering from a shell wound at the South Carolina Aquarium's Sea Turtle Rescue Program hospital.

"It snorted at my face," Nicole said, as the loggerhead named DeBordieu brought its head to the surface of its tank. ... Read More

3rd-grader shares her hair with kids who need it

SUMMERVILLE — Third-grader Cami Emory could not even imagine letting someone cut her long and beautiful hair, not without a really good reason, anyway. She found that reason a few weeks ago — and donated lengthy locks of her hair to children who have lost theirs while undergoing chemotherapy. ... Read More

Passenger dies after walking from wreck; driver arrested

MOUNT PLEASANT — A 59-year-old passenger walked away from a single-car wreck on a residential street Monday night only to die several hours later at a hospital, authorities said.

Mount Pleasant police arrested another man on a charge of felony driving under the influence.

"They were acquaintances, both were transported to the hospital," police Sgt. Steve Meadows said.

Briefly in West Ashley

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Super subs for the Super Bowl

Between the New England Patriots and the New York Giants, one thing is certain: A team from the Northeast will be the next Super Bowl champion. That shared turf allows fans of both teams to savor the day as they gather to eat, drink and, oh, yeah, watch football. Let the submarine sandwich surface. ... Read More

Web sites of the week

The Charleston County Public Library's Web sites of the week for the week of Jan. 28 focus on blogs. Read More

Small school has long shadow

Conference will focus on child development

Mount Pleasant — One small private school here is having a big impact on the Charleston community and beyond. Owners of the Little Learner's Lodge and Montessori of Mt. Pleasant initiated an effort that has resulted in a regional conference in Charleston starting Thursday. ... Read More

Sewee Center starts February with 'Forest in Winter'

The Sewee Visitor and Envrionmental Education Center has a range of activities planned this month starting with a walk in the woods, "The Forest in Winter." At 10 a.m. Feb. 9, The Lowcountry Chapter of the South Carolina Native Plant Society is leading a wildflower walk as it does each month. ... Read More

Sublime moving to one site

Sublime Pies & Cakes is moving its retail location from West Ashley to North Charleston. The award-winning bakery will close its store at 829-A Savannah Highway on Feb. 23. The new location, 5805 Campbell St. in North Charleston, will open March 3 and service both retail and wholesale customers. ... Read More

Girl shares her hair

Waist-length tresses cut to help other kids

SUMMERVILLE — Third-grader Cami Emory could not even imagine letting someone cut her long and beautiful hair, not without a really good reason, anyway. She found that reason a few weeks ago — and donated lengthy locks of her hair to children who have lost theirs while undergoing chemotherapy. ... Read More

Business Briefs

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S.C. Lottery

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Fatigue playing key factor in South Carolina's losses

COLUMBIA — South Carolina's basketball team sounds like one that's tired of losing games. And it's especially tired of losing because of, well, being tired. In an effort to curb the Gamecocks' stumbling late in games, coach Dave Odom said he'll more closely monitor his players' level of fatigue. ... Read More

S.C. lawmakers near sprinkler compromise

Aim to save lives in wake of tragedies

One plan was too weak, the other too strong, but state lawmakers say they are close to crafting a combination of incentives and regulations aimed at putting more sprinkler systems in buildings throughout South Carolina. There have been years of off-and-on wrangling over the state's appropriate role in encouraging, or requiring, more buildings to have sprinklers. ... Read More

Bush's final challenges

For his last State of the Union address, President Bush pointedly reminded federal legislators of their joint responsibility with the executive branch to tend to the nation's "unfinished business." In an atmosphere that was markedly free of the partisan rancor that dominates public discourse in an election year he got a respectful hearing from Democrats as well as his fellow Republicans. ... Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

We know we shouldn't postpone joy, but should we sustain it? Researchers from the University of Virginia, the University of Illinois and Michigan State University suggest that moderate happiness might be better for you than all-out elation. ... Read More

Simple potpie dish goes upscale for dinner party

At your next dinner party, try giving comfort food an upscale makeover. One easy way to do this is to prepare and serve items such as macaroni and cheese or chicken potpie in ramekins, tiny ceramic baking pots that go from oven to table. ... Read More

Deaths Summary

Minor differences mark Dist. 2 contest

Berkeley board candidates debate

The two candidates running for a vacant seat on the Berkeley County school board were well-versed on an array of education issues ranging from school funding to classroom discipline to the No Child Left Behind law in a debate Tuesday night. Sponsored by the Berkeley County Teachers' Forum,... Read More

Politics part of Baptist conference

A large Baptist conference scheduled for this week has taken on a particularly political flavor as it comes during a heated presidential primary season. The New Baptist Covenant Celebration, organized by former President Jimmy Carter, is meant to showcase "an unprecedented demonstration of... Read More

Ford rips on Taurus by likening it to Simpson

DETROIT — "D'oh!" What was Ford thinking? Belittling your product probably isn't a great marketing tool, but two top Ford Motor Co. executives recently criticized the looks of the new Taurus sedan, with one comparing it to doofus cartoon character Homer Simpson. While speaking ... Read More

Port's volume falls sharply

SPA officials say delays in building new terminal having negative effect

The Port of Charleston reported a double-digit drop in container volume in 2007, but it will likely hang on to its position as the fourth-busiest East Coast port. The port handled the equivalent of 1.75 million 20-foot-long containers in the last calendar year, down 11 percent from 2006, according to the State Ports Authority. ... Read More

Think you can bust a move? Find out at tryout

So you think you can dance? No, really. Think you can? If so, head to the Charleston Music Hall at 37 John St. in downtown Charleston on Thursday to audition for Fox's reality TV show "So You Think You Can Dance." Anyone auditioning should be there, lined up and ready to boogie, by 8 ... Read More

Berkeley supervisor's proposal could lead to tax boost

MONCKS CORNER — Berkeley County residents would see their property tax bills increase next year under a proposal by Supervisor Dan Davis. Davis plans to ask the County Council to repeal an 11-year-old council resolution that pledged that 100 percent of the revenue from a 1-cent loc... Read More

Assemble-yourself dishes with taste key to great grub on game day

If you spend the day of the big game in the kitchen, you're missing the point of a Super Bowl party. Which doesn't mean you can't have great grub for the game. But getting the goods onto the coffee table shouldn't detract from your time on the couch in front of the screen. ... Read More

Adopting 'no parole' requires paying for its consequences

Our state is tough on crime. We incarcerate a higher percentage of our population than 43 other states, yet we rank at the bottom in funding corrections. A new proposal would get even tougher, eliminating parole and requiring virtually all inmates to serve 85 percent of their sentences. It's called Truth in Sentencing/no parole (TIS/no parole). ... Read More

Comfort dish with eggplant goes light

Oven frying, other modifications cut fat, but not flavor

A healthier eggplant parmesan really is possible. It may seem dubious. After all, this Sicilian comfort dish traditionally is made with breaded eggplant that's fried in a lot of oil, then smothered in a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and tomato sauce. ... Read More

LaFrance backer still optimistic

Bankruptcy called part of plan for future

The chief executive officer of American LaFrance's lead investor spoke out Tuesday for the first time about the vehicle manufacturer's financial woes, saying that Monday's bankruptcy filing was part of a fast-track plan to secure the future of the 176-year-old company. Lynn Tilton, CEO of ... Read More

Briefly in East Cooper

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Briefly in West Ashley II

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News flash

Whole Foods bags the bag; mixing the un-mixable; don't call them diet sodas. Read more ... Read More

Front Burner

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Higher prices, tightening supplies tax organic food producers, buyers

NEW YORK — True lovers of organic food have always been willing to pay more for it: They spend $3.99 on a half gallon of organic milk when a whole gallon of conventional milk costs $1 less. But that devotion may soon be tested. The forces that have driven grocery prices up sha... Read More

Gator-hunting bill crawls past panel

COLUMBIA — Gator hunting might begin this fall, if state lawmakers swallow legislation allowing some alligators to be shot without being tied off first. A House bill on Tuesday cleared the committee where it stalled in the last session, a delay that angered some lawmakers. ... Read More

Deaths and Funerals

Berkeley Rec Report

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Duke coal plant gets final OK

Environmentalists: Fight not over

CHARLOTTE — With Santee Cooper and conservation groups locked in a heated debate over a coal-fired power generator in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina, Duke Energy Corp. received a final OK Tuesday from North Carolina environmental regulators to build a generator west of Charlotte. ... Read More

The Wine List

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Donovan working his magic with team of unknowns

COLUMBIA — Want an early frontrunner for SEC coach of the year? Hint: He won hardware last year, but his team was purely too good, too talented for him to be honored as the league's best coach. Well, after losing all five starters from a team that won consecutive national title... Read More

Tae Bo's Blanks brings brawn to schoolkids

Billy Blanks and his biceps paid a visit to Fraser Elementary School Monday morning, causing a stir among students and teachers alike. The creator of Tae Bo, who lives in Los Angeles, made the decision to visit Charleston after he received a stack of drawings and letters from the students asking him to come. ... Read More

High Schools Results

Girls' Basketball BERKELEY 44, JAMES ISLAND 33 James Island (33):Watson 5, Lakezza Moultrie 11, Wigfall 4, Grooms 7, Johnson 6. Berkeley (44): Morrison 5, Kaufman 7, White 6, Teka Thompson 10, LaKendra Rivers 1... Read More

Surplus to make up loss of sprinkler fees

Utility was worried about rate increase

When the Charleston Water System eliminated sprinkler fees worth at least $3 million a year, utility officials worried a rate increase might be needed to make up the lost revenue, but the utility has ended 2007 with $9 million more in income than expected. While the budget surplus won't mean a rate decrease, it has settled the financial question caused by eliminating sprinkler fees. ... Read More

Web database created for state schools

COLUMBIA — A state education panel has created a database on the Internet it hopes will allow people to better evaluate South Carolina's public schools. The Education Oversight Committee's new online database allows viewers to search for schools based on several criteria, including p... Read More

Small-business health insurance gets boost

COLUMBIA — Small businesses and their employees received a boost Tuesday when legislators gave key approval to a bill aimed at lowering health care costs. The bill would let a group of at least 10 businesses join together to negotiate cheaper insurance rates than an individual busine... Read More

End of dreaded PACT?

Proposal would overhaul state's student assessment

COLUMBIA — If teachers, and surely students, had their way, the state would make this the last year for the nearly universally despised standardized achievement tests. But legislators believe it will take the state until 2010 to overhaul its student assessment and school accountability standards. ... Read More

Road plan pleases residents

Project will relieve Dorchester Road

Pepperhill residents told road planners Tuesday they are pleased with the realignment of the proposed $25 million extension of Palmetto Commerce Parkway a few hundred feet farther away from their homes, but they are still concerned about the road's impact on seasonal flooding in the area. ... Read More

Cooking classes

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A place for everything ...

Some folks repeatedly misplace their keys, glasses, wallets, purses and other items that should not be so elusive. Such insufficient attention to detail isn't just inconvenient. It's needless and potentially hazardous. But the perils of losing track of your stuff are far more harrowing when the missing items are nuclear weapons. ... Read More

XLII and still no S.C. QBs

The great state of South Carolina is good at producing chefs and pluff mud. Not Super Bowl quarterbacks. I mean, what are the odds? In a football-zany state, we have more presidential candidates who were born here (Edwards) or raised here (Colbert) than South Carolina-born guys who have taken a Super Bowl snap. ... Read More

Sex attack arrest made

Man held in robbery of grocery

Charleston police have arrested an 18-year-old man accused of robbing the Queen Street Grocery and sexually assaulting a clerk. Ronald Mark Simmons, 18, faces charges of armed robbery, first-degree criminal sexual conduct, kidnapping and use of a weapon during a violent crime, said Charles Francis, police public information officer. ... Read More

McCain takes Florida

GOP senator's victory sets stage for 21 more state battles

MIAMI - Sen. John McCain of Arizona won a breakthrough triumph in the Florida Republican primary Tuesday night, edging past former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and seizing precious campaign momentum for next week's string of contests across 21 states. ... Read More

Freshmen studies: Nine rookies to start

Citadel, Furman lineups skew on the younger side

If there is one coach in Division I basketball who can relate to what The Citadel's Ed Conroy is going through, it is Furman's Jeff Jackson. When The Citadel and Furman meet tonight in Greenville, there will be nine freshmen in the starting lineup — five knobs for the Bulldogs and four rookies for the Paladins. ... Read More

Goose Creek officer wounds robbery suspect

Woman in car also facing charges

GOOSE CREEK — A Goose Creek police officer shot and wounded a robbery suspect after a short car chase early Tuesday. Robert Batchelor, 44, of Moncks Corner was still at Medical University Hospital following the shooting in a Goose Creek neighborhood Tuesday afternoon. His condition w... Read More

Positive charter rent news

There's positive news on two fronts involving charter schools and their rent-free use of public facilities. Last week, Rep. Chip Limehouse, R-Charleston, introduced a bill aimed at ensuring that charter schools around the state can use available school district-owned buildings without facing a rent bill. ... Read More

Schools get town's computers

Donation will help track kids' progress

The staff at John and Mattie Washington Preschool try to teach their charges academic and social skills that will ready them for school. And now they will be able to track each child's progress more easily, courtesy of the town of Kiawah Island. ... Read More

Green, Bowers named Parade All-Americans

Summerville wide receiver A.J. Green and Bamberg-Ehrhardt defensive end DaQuan Bowers are the only players from South Carolina who were selected to 45th annual Parade All-American High School Football Team. Green was one of six receivers who made the 58-man team, which includes players fro... Read More

Nash planning to retire

Dorchester sheriff says ongoing audit played role in decision

SUMMERVILLE — Dorchester County Sheriff Ray Nash said Tuesday that an ongoing audit that disclosed missing jail funds factored into his plans to retire rather than seek re-election. Nash, who has been in office since 1997, confirmed speculation that he will retire when his term ends next January. ... Read More

Fruit salad never lets food go to waste

Toss in whatever is in the refrigerator, then top it off with yogurt dressing

Fresh fruit is almost never cheap, so we get really tired of tossing out the last few grapes, stray strawberries and the apple half that our kids don't eat. Our frustration led to fruit salad, and this one recipe has cut the weekly fruit waste to almost zero. ... Read More

Briefly

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Couple charged in birth hoax

COLUMBIA — A South Carolina woman who claimed she was expecting quintuplets was arrested when police discovered she lied about the pregnancy to get cash and gifts from well-wishers, authorities said Tuesday. Nancy Cantu, 37, and boyfriend Juan Salvador Solis, 22, were charged with ob... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Police arrest suspect in sexual assault and robbery at Queen St. grocery

Charleston police have arrested an 18-year-old man accused of robbing the Queen Street Grocery and sexually assaulting a clerk. ... Read More

SC education panel releases Web site to evaluate schools

Dorchester Sheriff Ray Nash announces he will retire; past year has seen controversy

Dorchester County Sheriff Ray Nash announced today that he will be retiring at the end of his term in January 2009. Nash, who has held the post for 11 years, said a number of factors influenced his decision. Read More

Goose Creek police shoot suspected robber following chase

A Goose Creek police officer shot and wounded a man suspected of robbing a convenience store after a short car chase early Tuesday morning, police said. Read More

Extend tax cuts, stand firm in Iraq, Bush says

With schoolwork, extra activities, teens don't have much free time

How often have teenagers today turned down a social opportunity with "I can't, I have rehearsal" or "I have practice"? Many high school students, already bogged down with multiple Advanced Placement courses, find commitment to extracurricular activities irresistible. Some consider extracurriculars an essential part of a college application; others simply participate because they are attached to and can't give up an activity. ... Read More

Never too early to teach child a foreign language

FORT WORTH, Texas — I remember watching "Sesame Street" as a child and feeling mighty proud because I could say "agua" and count to 10 in Spanish. These days, that barely cuts it. Just about everywhere you turn, some new product promises to teach young kids a foreign language. ... Read More

Kennedys line up behind Obama bid

WASHINGTON — At 46 years old, Barack Obama is too young to remember John F. Kennedy. But he heard himself compared to the late president so often on Monday that he must feel like an honorary member of the family. Sen. Edward Kennedy, summoning memories of his brother, led two generations of the first family in Democratic politics in endorsing Obama for the White House, declaring, "I feel change is in the air." ... Read More

5 big stars for the Sanctuary

Kiawah hotel earns Mobil Travel Guide's highest honors

The swanky Sanctuary hotel at Kiawah Island Golf Resort was crowned with five stars Monday by Mobil Travel Guide, becoming one of only 41 U.S. lodgings to receive the coveted accolade. Kiawah was also one of three properties in the country to win five stars for its spa. "We're all v... Read More

Sanford takes bid to get tougher on DUI to Internet

YouTube video says state's laws favorable to offenders

AIKEN — South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford is taking his fight for tougher drunken driving laws to the Internet. The Republican governor on Monday released a video on YouTube that features a woman talking about her 5-year-old son, who was killed by a drunken driver while he was riding his bicycle in 2005. ... Read More

Ask Elsa

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Wave wrestlers overwhelm Blazers

Summerville 84, Ridge View 0 SUMMERVILLE — Fourteen matches. Fourteen pins. The Summerville Green Wave opened the Class AAAA wrestling playoffs with a thoroughly dominating 84-0 victory over Ridge View on Monday. At no time did a Summerville wrestler tr... Read More

Sanford pushes 3 key reforms at North Charleston business

Standing in the middle of a glass fabrication company in North Charleston, Gov. Mark Sanford on Monday called on the Legislature to pass three key reforms by mid-February on immigration, DUI and small-business health insurance. Sanford used Coastal Glass Distributors as a backdrop for refo... Read More

SoundJunction tackles building blocks of musical composition

Whether we're listening to the radio, watching a movie or even waiting to see the doctor, music surrounds us wherever we go. Yet, despite its ubiquity, how many people understand how music is composed or why it evokes emotional reactions in listeners? ... Read More

Five-day layoff aids Clemson's Booker

CLEMSON — Five days off comes at a good time for Clemson's basketball team. The Tigers don't play again until Saturday at home against Boston College, and that will allow starting center Trevor Booker time to mend a high ankle sprain he suffered in Sunday's 75-72 loss at Miami. ... Read More

Take second look at research

Genealogists often talk about plans to return to the information they noted or collected, then filed and forgot. It was one of those things I resolved to do in a recent column and would like to encourage others to do. It's probably necessary to commit to doing it. ... Read More

Driver was going at least 60 mph when he hit tree

SUMMERVILLE — The car that struck a large cypress tree Sunday, killing the driver and critically injuring the passenger, was traveling at more than 15 mph over the speed limit, police said Monday. The wreck happened three hours after the driver had been ticketed for traveling 34 mph ... Read More

Police seek help in solving sex assault

Man attacked worker during robbery in Queen Street Grocery

An unidentified man who sexually attacked a female employee at the Queen Street Grocery on Saturday asked for some Newport cigarettes, then put a box cutter to her neck while she had her back turned, police said. ... Read More

Cougars come up short at Wofford

Wofford 67, Charleston 66 SPARTANBURG — It was the College of Charleston's game to lose. Unfortunately for the Cougars, that's exactly what happened. Charleston missed the front end of a one-and-one with 11.6 seconds to play ... Read More

On the go

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Knoblauch agrees to talk to House committee

At A Glance WASHINGTON — Chuck Knoblauch is heading to Capitol Hill. Knoblauch, a four-time All-Star who played with Roger Clemens on the New York Yankees, agreed Monday to speak to a House committee investigating drug use in baseball after initially failing to... Read More

Entries sought for annual list of summer camps

We may have just turned our calendars to 2008, but it's already time to start thinking about summer camps. We are collecting information for our annual listing, which will be published in The Post and Courier in early March. ... Read More

Firetruck maker bankrupt

American LaFrance owes its creditors more than $200M

American LaFrance's bankruptcy filing Monday was set in motion last summer, when the ailing manufacturer of firetrucks and other emergency vehicles officially severed ties with former owner Freightliner. It was in June that Freightliner, under a 2005 agreement, stopped tracking inventory, accounting, payroll and the manufacturing process for its former subsidiary. ... Read More

Officers arrest man in police-like car

Ex-Weapons Station guard out on bond

GOOSE CREEK — A former private security guard at the Charleston Naval Weapons Station was arrested this weekend after police say they caught him driving through the city in a car equipped with blue lights, a siren and police-like decals. Goose Creek police say Jon Christopher Esco had four guns in a holster and in his clothes, and that they found more ammunition inside his white Ford Crown Victoria. ... Read More

Make intentions clear to avoid jealousy

I was married for 38 years. During that time, I became friends with my sister-in-law. My wife has now been deceased for six years. I dated for a few years, and then I finally decided to date one person only. I have made it clear to this woman that I do not want to marry, and I think that she is settled and comfortable with that. ... Read More

Grizzlies waive point guard Stoudamire

NBA Notes MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Grizzlies waived veteran point guard Damon Stoudamire on Monday and plan to release him if he clears waivers. The move had been expected for weeks. Stoudamire, a former first-round pick in his 13th season out of Arizona, h... Read More

Whooping cranes land in Florida

A flock of 17 young whooping cranes landed Monday at their Florida winter refuge behind a "surrogate parent" ultralight plane, as the accompanying humans breathed a little sigh of relief. The trip, a first-time migration for this flock, took more than a month longer than usual amid nasty w... Read More

Monday's High School Results

Wrestling Class AAAA Playoffs GOOSE CREEK 60, HARTSVILLE 24 103—Crawford (GC) wbf; 112—Gernigan (GC) p. Johnson; 119—McCoy (GC) p. Newsome; 125Read More

Fire museum is expected to stay open

The North Charleston fire museum that bears the American LaFrance name and exhibits an array of one-of-a-kind antique firetrucks is expected to remain open despite the emergency vehicle maker's bankruptcy filing. The Summerville-based company filed for bankruptcy protection Monday and said... Read More

Prospects pitching in for youth baseball

SUMMERVILLE — Sometime in the near future, any of a few dozen young baseball players might read a baseball boxscore and see the name of a guy who helped them learn to pitch. Several major league pitching prospects have discovered that Summerville offers the perfect off-season training while they keep busy teaching youth baseball players proper pitching mechanics. ... Read More

Celebs choose names

Linda Rosenkrantz and Pamela Redmond Satran, best-selling authors of "The Baby Name Bible" (St. Martin's Press), recently released their list of the most inspiring baby names chosen by celebrities in 2007. ... Read More

Veteran local educator to lead charter school

The Charleston Charter School for Math & Science has hired a longtime Charleston County educator with a strong background in math and science as its first principal. Peter Smyth is in his second year of teaching Advanced Placement statistics, calculus and geometry at Porter-Gaud, but h... Read More

Kids help mom grieve after death of her older brother

My oldest brother, Dan, died last week. He had been fighting cancer for about 10 years, so it wasn't a complete surprise. This is the first time that we've had to deal with a death in our family. When we flew out to California last summer for our family reunion, Dan didn't look so well, and it was during that visit that I really felt that he wasn't going to be with us much longer. ... Read More

Drug Law Reform to disband

Not enough money, interest to continue, S.C. group says

A pro-legalization-of-drugs lobbying group that gained notoriety after Charleston County Council allocated it $500 several years ago has been snuffed out. South Carolinians for Drug Law Reform is disbanding, its president said Monday. The group made what it considers some gains in r... Read More

Learning lessons

Angeline Lillard, Ph.D., a leader in Montessori research and author of the book "Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius," will talk about the latest scientific research on the way young children learn best at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Charleston Marriott Hotel, 170 Lockwood Drive. ... Read More

Winthrop too strong for Bucs

A 15-3 run midway through the second half proved to be the difference for the Winthrop Eagles as the perennial Big South Conference power cruised past Charleston Southern, 81-64, at the CSU Fieldhouse on Monday night. The Eagles won their fifth consecutive conference game and improved to 14-7 overall and 5-1 in league play while the Buccaneers dropped to 7-14 and 1-5. ... Read More

Trot for Cure event continues success

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Business Briefs

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'06 champ Petrova joins field for Cup

With four former champions and five of the world's top 10 women's tennis players already in the fold, the Family Circle Cup's 35th anniversary tournament on April 12-20 is well on its way to having one of the event's better fields. Nadia Petrova of Russia, the 2006 champion, officially ent... Read More

Briefly

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Good Morning Lowcountry

GMLc has nothing more to fear on this lovely Lowcountry morning than the large U.S. spy satellite that is hurtling out of control from outer space toward the Earth. It weighs 20,000 pounds and is the size of a small bus. And we thought the Age of Fear was over. ... Read More

Teen Calendar

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Officer's killer should get a new trial, justices rule

COLUMBIA — The South Carolina Supreme Court ruled Monday that a man who gunned down a Myrtle Beach police officer in 2002 should get a new trial because a jury was not allowed to consider a lesser charge. Jurors who convicted Luzenski Allen Cottrell should have been able to consider ... Read More

News flash

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Welcome senior tax program

A program that enables retirees to work on public service jobs in return for property tax abatement is getting a welcome look in Charleston County. In Aiken County, the idea has proven to be a winner for all involved. There, seniors 60 and older are employed at the local museum, library, voter registration office and in other county departments. ... Read More

Indoor play areas keep kids active in cold weather

Even though the days are cold, and sometimes wet, that doesn't mean your little one has to be cooped up inside, deprived of the opportunity to use up some of that endless energy. There are plenty of indoor locations where you can take your tots to bounce, run, climb or slide these days. ... Read More

Economy, expansion take toll on Tidelands

Mount Pleasant-based bank reports earnings for year tumbled 72 percent to $413,304

The last of the region's locally based banks to report 2007 earnings said Monday that its financial performance last year was hampered by the national economic slowdown and expansion costs. Mount Pleasant-based Tidelands Bancshares Inc., holding company for Tidelands Bank, said earnings fo... Read More

Chavez's dangerous war talk

When Juan Carlos of Spain lost patience with Hugo Chavez and said, "Why don't you just shut up?" the king was giving the loquacious Venezuelan president some good advice. But Mr. Chavez, it seems, just cannot shut up. His rhetoric has always been outlandish and outrageous, but of late he has aroused fears that he could talk himself into war with neighboring Colombia. ... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Victory for Obama, competition

Barack Obama wasn't the only big winner in Saturday's South Carolina Democratic presidential primary. Party officials also had ample reason to celebrate after more than 530,000 voters cast ballots — nearly double the turnout for the 2004 S.C. Democratic presidential primary. ... Read More

How students perform key to chief's rating

School board selects form for McGinley's evaluation

The Charleston County School Board will base 80 percent of Superintendent Nancy McGinley's evaluation on objective criteria, the majority of which will be the district's academic performance. The school board agreed in a 6-2 vote Monday night on the criteria it will use to grade the superi... Read More

Naptime moms wake up to social activism

WASHINGTON — Amy Tiemann was a neuroscientist, then a high school teacher, next a mother. The constraints of that third job inspired the Chapel Hill, N.C., woman to carve out time to reconnect with her own passions and put them into action. ... Read More

Panel OKs land buy near McClellanville

More than 700 acres of pine forest near McClellanville would become a future Charleston County park, if a $3 million land deal approved by the county Park and Recreation Commission Monday night is completed as planned. The property, known as Two Pines, sits along both sides of Two Pines Road, on the east side of U.S. Highway 17. ... Read More

District 2 board gives approval to calendar

SUMMERVILLE — The 2008-09 school year in Dorchester District 2 will begin on a Thursday, with officials hoping the midweek start will lead to a smoother end of the first semester. School board members approved the calendar for the upcoming academic year at a meeting Monday night, de... Read More

Attorneys general oppose coal plant

8 top prosecutors want Santee Cooper to be denied permit

Eight attorneys general want South Carolina to nix Santee Cooper's plan for a new coal-fired power generator in the Pee Dee, saying the plant would pump millions of tons of carbon dioxide into the air and undermine their efforts to reduce greenhouse gases. Opposition from these top government prosecutors shows how the high-stakes debate over Santee Cooper's Pee Dee project has landed firmly on the national stage. ... Read More

Deaths and Funerals

Family displaced by kitchen fire

Blaze started after father, a sous chef at Sandpiper Village, fried fish

A family of five in North Charleston was left homeless Monday night after fire ripped through a rental home near Azalea Drive. Gregory Jenkins, 41, a sous chef at the Sandpiper Village retirement community in Mount Pleasant, was frying fish about 7:45 p.m. at his home on Aintree Avenue. He... Read More

High court cuts fees for lawyers

COLUMBIA — The $8.7 million awarded in fees to attorneys who sued a state retirement incentive program on behalf of thousands of retirees was "entirely unreasonable," the South Carolina Supreme Court ruled Monday. The state's highest court, which earlier ruled taxpayers would foot th... Read More

S.C. Lottery

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Deaths Summary

Parity reigns thus far in Atlantic Coast Conference

CLEMSON — Before the season, most Atlantic Coast Conference observers had no clue how to predict the conference race beyond North Carolina and Duke. It's safe to say the indecision was legit. With all 12 teams having played five or more conference games thus far, it's hard to tell much difference between third place (3-2 Boston College) and last place (1-4 Virginia). ... Read More

Georgetown girl to be on Banks' TV show

A Lowcountry teenager who dreamed of meeting supermodel Tyra Banks was told her wish was a little lofty. Representatives from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which attempts to meet requests for children with life-threatening illnesses, told Courtney Wright, who received treatment for ovarian c... Read More

Timberland promotes safe driving

So you just got your license and you're ready to take dad's car for a spin. You've cranked the engine and your foot's hovering over the gas, but you can't go anywhere without tunes, right? The radio's blasting "2 Step" by UNK. ... Read More

Evaluation overdue for leader of Dorchester District 2

Dorchester District 2 Superintendent Joe Pye has not received an evaluation from the district's school board in more than 15 months, even though the board's own policy mandates an annual review for the schools chief. Pye's last evaluation occurred in October 2006, only weeks before a Novem... Read More

Tiger eager for Torrey return

SAN DIEGO — Tiger Woods began his 2008 season with a 67 on the South Course at Torrey Pines that featured only one bogey, one birdie on the par 5s and seemingly very little effort. Standing behind the 18th green, one caddie made a quiet observation that surely was shared by others. ... Read More

Dredging referendum on way

Wild Dunes property owners will decide on special fee

ISLE OF PALMS — Wild Dunes property owners will receive a ballot this week asking if the homeowners association should impose a special assessment to pay a portion of an offshore dredging project to renourish their eroding beach. Wild Dunes Community Association members met in the Sw... Read More

Pats' Bruschi savors biggest victory

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — There was a time when Tedy Bruschi was unsure he'd be able to go to a football game again, let alone play in one. Yet here he is nearly three years later, fully recovered from a stroke and back at the Super Bowl as one of the unbeaten New England Patriots' defensive leaders. ... Read More

Two siblings 'transition' at Stratford

I took a deep breath as I walked into the Stratford High School cafeteria. Finally, I'm a junior. Which meant not only that I didn't sound stupid yelling " '09" at pep rallies, but that I got to sit at the "upperclassmen" lunch table, which at our school is prime real estate. ... Read More

Democratic response to State of the Union

Prepared text of the Democratic response to the State of the Union address delivered Monday by Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, as provided by her office. ... Read More

Text of the State of the Union

Prepared text of President Bush's final State of the Union address Monday, as provided by the White House. ... Read More

Bush speech to focus on sagging economy

In his final State of the Union address, President Bush drafted an urgent call for Congress to approve a $150-billion anti-recession plan and resist temptations to enlarge it. Gnawing economic worries overshadowed the long and costly Iraq war in his speech as Bush struggled to be heard above the din of the presidential race. Read More

SC Supreme Court grants new trial to cop killer on death row

The South Carolina Supreme Court on Monday ruled that a man who gunned down a Myrtle Beach police officer in 2002 should get a new trial because a jury was not allowed to consider a lesser charge. Read More

Petrova enters Family Circle Cup

The Family Circle Cup added another former champion to its elite field today when 2006 champion Nadia Petrova of Russia officially entered the April 12-20 Daniel Island event. Read More

Ex-weapons station security guard accused of impersonating police officer

Goose Creek police say they caught a former Charleston Naval Weapons Station security guard driving through the city in a car that was equipped with blue lights, a siren and police-like markings. Read More

American LaFrance files for bankruptcy protection

Move follows 100 temporary layoffs Read More

Coming up

Dancing queen

GM films TV spot on Ravenel Bridge

Traffic was slowed or stalled on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for repeated 5-minute intervals Sunday during the filming of a national television commercial for General Motors. Read More

Land Trust hits conservation record

Lowcountry organization helps save more than 10,000 acres of private land

The niche guys in local conservation had another banner year. Read More

Barbs turned many black voters in Obama's favor

For some, final days of campaign recalled racial divides

As a black woman, Jeanettea Bryan had been waiting eight years to cast a presidential vote for Hillary Clinton, until the rhetoric in the Democratic primary got rough and racial. Read More

Hurricanes' long-range gunner downs Tigers

Jack McClinton shook off his shooting woes and helped Miami snap a losing streak.

Mired in a 2-for-14 funk, McClinton hit three consecutive 3-pointers over a 1:21 span late in the game as Miami rallied and defeated Clemson, 75-72, on Sunday afternoon.
Read More

Clemson, USC recruiting entering the homestretch

The days are dwindling on this recruiting campaign and so is the number of available prospects on Clemson's and South Carolina's boards. Read More

Calendar

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Hillary Clinton loses state despite husband's efforts

For all the sharp-elbowed campaigning he did for his wife in South Carolina, Bill Clinton couldn't keep voters from abandoning her in the state's Democratic presidential primary, according to exit polls. Read More

Record year for Land Trust

As the need for growth restraints has become increasingly evident in coastal South Carolina, there's great satisfaction in the Lowcountry Open Land Trust's report that it has helped preserve more than 10,000 acres in the last year alone. It was the 22-year-old Land Trust's best year ever. Read More

Keith Nichols dies at 57

Keith Nichols, the last original staff member of Channel 5 WCSC-TV's morning news show, died early Sunday after a three-year battle with lymphoma, the station said Sunday. He was 57. Read More

State

Advice you should know at tax time

At this time of year, i.e., tax season, information, tips and advice for taxpayers arrives in my inbox in a seemingly never- ending stream. As we move toward tax filing deadline day, April 15, I'll share what I think are some of the more interesting or useful ones. Read More

Djokovic proves he belongs in upper echelon of men's game

Novak Djokovic's victory over Roger Federer and Australian Open title really count in the big picture of men's tennis, unlike Marat Safin's upset of Federer three years ago Down Under. Read More

Vandals strike south of Broad Street

Tires slashed, vehicles keyed a day after nearby grocery store attacked

Frances Montanye sat on the curb of New Street on Sunday and watched as her boyfriend replaced a slashed tire.

"Good thing for boyfriends who know how to change tires," Montanye said.

Djokovic's game is way up Down Under

MELBOURNE, Australia — Novak Djokovic started making peace with the crowd as soon as he lifted the trophy. After beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-6 (2) on Sunday night to win the Australian Open for his first Grand Slam title, Djokovic knew a little public relations was in... Read More

Tiger opens '08 with statement

Golf SAN DIEGO — Tiger Woods joined the King, and left everyone else at the Buick Invitational feeling like paupers. In his most dominant start to a season, Woods built an 11-shot lead Sunday until his game and the fickle weather turned cold on the back nine. A... Read More

Battery applauds expanded, more balanced schedule

Charleston Battery coach Mike Anhaueser said the 2008 USL First Division's schedule will be more balanced this year than in seasons past. Read More

S.C. Marine invited to State of Union

SPARTANBURG — A year ago, Andrew Kinard was just getting back to speaking and eating solid foods. On Monday, the Marine first lieutenant will be in the Capitol listening to President Bush give his last State of the Union address. "What a difference a year makes," said Kinard's father... Read More

Executive Items

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Deaths Summary

Workers should redo resumes

If you're worried about losing your job as the U.S. economy weakens, update your resume in case you need to hunt for new employment. Your goal should be making your resume stand out from the hundreds of others that employers receive. Read More

Best for babies

Inoperable cancer goes under the CyberKnife

Noninvasive radiosurgery system sets up shop at Roper

Perry Mappus, 75, wore a black leotard with white stripes as Roper Hospital staff helped her slide into a body-hugging frame beneath the CyberKnife. Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Man killed in car crash

Driver, 20, had been ticketed hours earlier

A 20-year-old Charleston man died and a woman was seriously hurt Sunday morning after authorities say he drove a car into a large cypress tree just hours after he was caught going 34 mph over the speed limit on that same road. Read More

PCOS more than just fertility risk

Q: I've been having trouble getting pregnant. One reason why, my doctor said, is that I could have polycystic ovary syndrome. I've never heard of this disease. Why would it make me infertile? Read More

Partner Yoga enhances poses for deep stretch

Most of us, when we think of yoga, imagine just Me and My Mat. And that is often the way it is. It is one of the things I like most about the practice: You don't need anyone else to do it. You are in your own body, in your own head and not thinking about anyone or anything else. Read More

FCC gives the all clear to Clear Channel sale

The proposed buyout of Clear Channel Communications Inc. , the current market-share leader in the Charleston radio business, got the all-clear from the nation's airwave overseers last week. Read More

Pryor following path of Unitas, Marino, Montana

Dan Marino, Joe Montana, Johnny Unitas, Joe Namath, George Blanda and Jim Kelly earned Pittsburgh and its environs the nickname of the Cradle of Quarterbacks. Read More

Deal with bubbles only when they burst

Looked at from a certain angle, the Fed's dramatic (though not unexpected) rate cut last week is a bit nutty. Read More

Local industry still does little to recall the stains of slavery

Charleston has an elephantine memory, and it leans on that nostalgia to drive tourism, its largest industry. Read More

Requests for Roth IRA forms go unanswered

Boutiques that feature chic clothing and hip eyewear come to King Street

Come early February, King Street can add yet another boutique to its repertoire of hotspots for fashion-forward women to shop. Read More

8 RULES FOR A HEALTHY 2008

You can't control genetics or the guy on the bus who sneezes on you, but many factors that affect your health are well within your control. Here are eight simple and surprising ways to improve your family's health in 2008. Read More

Ways to transfer e-mail to another computer

Using universal characters when typing fractions

Clemson student grateful for help, but still struggles

When classes are out at Clemson University and the other students go home to be with their families, Anna Garcia has no place of her own to go. Read More

Market dip creates options for those mulling retirement

Amid the turbulence of the plunging stock market, there's a great opportunity for small-business owners: If they set up retirement plans now, they'll position themselves and their employees for big gains when Wall Street finally recovers. It's still possible to set up a plan and get a break on 2007 taxes. Read More

Soldier part of 'tough fight' to bring order to rural Iraq area

Dropping bombs, capturing insurgents and countering propaganda are part of a new stepped-up, military offensive called Operation Phantom Phoenix to defeat extremism throughout Iraq. Read More

Retailers willing to help recycle old electronics

Distinctions

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Some tears in workplace can be excused by boss

Don't have meltdowns or cry foul over mistakes

Week in Review

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At 15, Coliseum still a solid performer

Most people don't think of music icon Elton John as a catalyst for economic development.

But last year, that's exactly what the piano-playing performer helped do when he put on a one-night show in November in front of a sellout crowd at the North Charleston Coliseum.
Read More

Teen shot in neck in Sangaree

A Charleston teenager was shot in the neck in a Sangaree home early Sunday. Read More

'Prehabbing' makes sense but isn't for everyone

Say the word "rehab," and what comes to mind?

OK, forget about Lindsay Lohan or Britney Spears. Not that kind of rehab, but rather the guided physical rehabilitation to rebuild strength in a body part after surgery.
Read More

Renew surveillance bill

If Congress does not act by Feb. 1, a law authorizing the nation's intelligence community to intercept certain terrorist communications will expire, giving a boost to terrorism and dealing a blow to national security. It would be highly irresponsible for Congress to fail to pass a timely renewal.... Read More

Welcome home, S.C. heroes

Citizen-soldiers have played a vital role in helping the U.S. military carry out its ongoing missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. That includes the approximately 170 members of the S.C. National Guard's 1st Battalion, 263rd Armor Regiment who came home to the United States last week, landing in Fort... Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

'Sammies' lower-calorie fast food

Some fast-food restaurants are responding to the public call for healthier alternatives. Read More

Blazing Buc: Carter making instant impact at CSU

One of four signees in Barclay Radebaugh's recruiting class last spring, Omar Carter came to Charleston Southern as the least heralded. Read More

Homeowner's dream comes to life

Despite credit crisis, stock market throes, woman's perseverance lands perfect house

During this time of credit woes and stock market roller coaster rides, one proud new homeowner has a message of hope for anyone caught in the melee.

Susan Brooks, 48, a single mother of three who works two jobs to help keep the dream alive, sat in her attorney's office Jan. 18 and completed a journey she thought would never end.
Read More

Refund makes man feel cheated

Hold on to gift receipt and take time to check return policy

Two weeks ago, Adam Orentlicher of Cary, N.C., did what many consumers do after the holidays: He returned a gift. Read More

Deaths and Funerals

RECALLS

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

Imitators apparently try to lift some Skirt!

Skirt!, a Charleston-born monthly magazine, has tied up legal loose ends with an alleged knockoff. Read More

Stuck in 3-game skid, Cougs take on Terriers

The College of Charleston handled Wofford with relative ease when the Cougars beat the Terriers, 70-60, on Jan. 17 at John Kresse Arena, but tonight's rematch at Wofford may pair basketball teams headed in opposite directions. Read More

C of C pushes merit-based teacher raises

Faculty would get higher pay for results, not cost of living

Pay increases for College of Charleston faculty will be based on how well they do their jobs, not on a rising cost of living, under a new plan led by the school's president. Read More

C of C names head of real estate school

The College of Charleston has picked a professor to shape its newly formed real estate school. Read More

Traffic slowed on Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for truck commercial

Traffic was slowed or stalled on the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for repeated 5-minute intervals Sunday during the filming of a national television commercial for General Motors. Read More

Police say 23 vehicles vandalized on peninsula; tires slashed and cars keyed

Frances Montanye sat on the curb of New Street Sunday and watched as her boyfriend replaced a slashed tire with a new one. Read More

Former WCSC-TV weather man dies after battle with lymphoma

Keith Nichols, Channel 5 WCSC-TV's last original staff member, died early Sunday morning after a three-year battle with lymphoma, the station said. Read More

Twenty-year-old crashes car, dies after police catch him going 34 mph over speed limit

A 20-year-old Charleston man died and a woman was seriously hurt Sunday morning after authorities say he drove a car into a large Cypress tree just hours after he was caught going 34 mph over the speed limit on that same road. Read More

Notable Quotables

On New York Sen. Hillary Clinton: 'If Hillary doesn't pull this out, we're all in trouble. I've got grandchildren to worry about." Read More

Spurring vote easy, leaders say

Criticism of Obama a call to arms among blacks, Scott contends

Getting out the vote was a little bit easier on Saturday compared with past elections, according to some community leaders. Read More

USC repeats losing pattern; Wildcats scratch out victory

Billy Gillispie was seeing South Carolina in person for the first time. But he was able to astutely sum up the Gamecocks' season to date after just one viewing. Read More

Tips can save time, money at grocery

Most people pay for their groceries with three currencies: money, time and angst. Read More

Balanced Asheville tops CSU

In front of one of the largest crowds in CSU Fieldhouse history, the Big South Conference-leading UNC Asheville Bulldogs managed to focus on the task at hand. Read More

Love your houseplant

Seasoned Lowcountry gardeners wince every time someone announces that we can grow positively anything here, but our mild winter climate does let us cultivate a host of tropical plants outdoors. Read More

This week's meetings

Sound mixer has record 20th Oscar nod, no wins

Kevin O'Connell's previous 19 Oscar nominations were nothing like this. Read More

Donohue ahead in tight Rolex 24

An intense battle went into the 10th hour Saturday in the Rolex 24-Hour at Daytona International Speedway, with David Donohue, son of the late Indianapolis 500 winner Mark Donohue, holding a narrow lead over a large group of Daytona Prototypes. Read More

Raptors, West Ashley soccer teams excelling in classroom

If you want to see some true student-athletes, check out the boys' and girls' soccer teams at Academic Magnet and the girls' squad at West Ashley. The three teams recently received the National Soccer Coaches Association of America ( NSCAA) Team Academic Award for exemplary performance in the classroom as a team during the 2006-07 academic year. Read More

Queen Street store robbed

A man wielding a box cutter entered Queen Street Grocery on Saturday morning, grabbed a clerk and dragged her to the back of the store before taking money from the register, police investigator Shylah Murray said. Read More

Real estate transactions

Edwards vows to continue

3rd-place finish doesn't stop him

Placing third in Saturday's primary was a deflating finish for South Carolina native John Edwards, but the self-described country boy has vowed to keep fishing for votes in other states. Read More

Towel tips get buyers in the fold

SEATTLE - Those who have wrapped themselves in a lush, thick towel after a shower know that fluffy towels are worth it. But finding a towel with the perfect amount of fluff that maintains its loft over time takes a little know-how. Read More

Longline program riles sport anglers

Research fishing set for Charleston Bump

A research program that will allow commercial longline boats to fish the Charleston Bump, potentially putting more than 100,000 hooks in the water, angers offshore fishermen who fear the move is a prelude to reopening protected areas. Read More

Charleston Stage to set up 'Bad Dates'

You may want to take a dip in the shallow end of the dating pool with Theresa Rebeck's comedy "Bad Dates," opening Wednesday and produced by Charleston Stage at the American Theater. Read More

Obama says politics will be reshaped

Supporters say primary results transcend race, gender, economic status

Illinois Sen. Barack Obama used his victory speech Saturday to underscore how his campaign aims at nothing less than reshaping the nation's politics by building bridges between black and white, rich and poor - even between Democrats and Republicans. Read More

Sealing up attic hatch can save lots of energy, money

Lack of grocery stores hinders North Charleston redevelopment

The absence of grocery stores produces a pattern of effects that almost always compounds the misery of distressed urban center neighborhoods. One of many readily available studies estimates 400,000 citizens are deprived of food choices in Dallas. So the folks in the southern sections of North Charleston are not alone as they struggle without a grocery store and what that means to their admirable neighborhood restoration programs. Their plight deserves more attention than it's getting. This is not just a social marketing problem. It is a regional public policy issue. Read More

Fodor's on the move

Nature tough on island

When Montserrat's soca singer Arrow recorded his worldwide hit song "Hot! Hot! Hot!" in 1982, he couldn't have known how hot it was going to get. Read More

Curious cultivated plant ghostly succulent species

This week we're dealing with a real oddball. The Mystery Plants featured in this column are usually native species here in the Southeast, although every once in a while we've offered a curious cultivated plant, such as this one. Read More

Boykin Missy a constant companion for her owner

Charleston Missy, or Missy for short, is a 7 1/2-year-old Boykin spaniel with mahogany-colored curly hair. Read More

Voting glitches are few locally, across the state

Poll workers and election officials handling Saturday's Democratic primary appeared to have avoided most the problems that disrupted some voting in last week's Republican primary. Read More

Suzuki's compact SX4 spunky and funky

Nice-looking sedan features alluring price

Suzuki is well-known for its motorcycles. When it comes to cars, many consumers just scratch their heads. But Suzuki is an expert at producing diminutive cars with diminutive price tags and a big heart. Read More

Cougars opening women's tennis season today

The College of Charleston women's tennis team opens its season with a doubleheader today against Coastal Carolina at noon and against Presbyterian at 4 p.m. Both matches will be at C of C's tennis center at Patriots Point. ... Read More

Poetry's role can get political

There always will be differing opinions about whether celebrities should get involved with political issues. During any campaign season, we witness high-profile musicians and actors publicly endorsing various presidential candidates. Read More

NHL All-Star vets relish showcase

NHL Notes ATLANTA — Nicklas Lidstrom's 10th All-Star appearance brought out a smile that belied what has become routine for the topflight Detroit defenseman. Joe Thornton is back for his fifth, and seemed miffed that anyone would pass up the chance to show off ... Read More

Happenings

'Lord John' compelling tales

LORD JOHN AND THE HAND OF DEVILS. By Diana Gabaldon. Delacorte. 320 pages. $25. Lord John Grey is back for more intrigue and personal suffering in the third in a series of books, this time a compilation of three novellas. The first and shortest, "Lord John a... Read More

Faith Q&A

Deaths and Funerals

One-on-One with Dustin Fry

Dustin Fry has more than football on his mind these days. The former Summerville and Clemson football standout has been busy preparing for a May 10 wedding to his fiancee, Laura. Fry, who recently completed his rookie season as an offensive lineman with the St. Louis Rams, took a few minutes to go One-on-One with The Post and Courier's Larry Williams: Read More

Confederates held out to bitter end

DIEHARD REBELS: The Confederate Culture of Invincibility. By Jason Phillips. The University of Georgia Press. 257 pages. $34.95. It is generally accepted that the battle of Gettysburg and the fall of Vicksburg in July 1863 marked the beginning of the end for the Con... Read More

Bring on the 'Circus'

Buy the gallon

Tribute celebrates artist Green's work

Lowcountry friends and fans of artist Jonathan Green have organized "Jonathan Green Week," a multimedia tribute to the artist March 1-8. Read More

Testing, testing

Help build home for abused girls

Read More

Old Perry would boost Tigers

Sam Perry is ready to party like it's 2006. Read More

Odd pieces with secret compartments highly collectible

Safes and banks were not easy to find in the 18th and 19th centuries. That's why so many types of secret compartments were made in furniture and decorative items. Eighteenth-century desks often had "deed" boxes disguised as small columns on the inside near the drawers. The columns could be... Read More

Obama wins in nearly all demographics

S.C. Democrats celebrate huge voter interest generated by ticket's diversity

Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama posted such an impressive win in Saturday's primary that his victory party began even before his supporters were allowed into the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Read More

Clarity back in black and white in home style

Designing interiors is anything but black and white, especially with all the choices available today. But a palette that's a trend du jour, one that's a global sensation from fashion runways to tabletops to walls and floors to bedding and furniture, is the all-color/no-color marriage of black and white. Read More

Eli looking like a new Manning lately

The only thing more remarkable than the Giants' unexpected presence in Super Bowl XLII has been the transformation of the quarterback who helped get them there. Read More

Is airline consolidation bad for travelers?

The last time there was consolidation in the airline industry, customers suffered. Read More

Bids for council declared

Dorchester: Many tell of intentions

Dorchester County Council Chairman Larry Hargett announced his bid for re-election while wearing a Mitt Romney campaign button. Read More

Edwards not done running

Third place won't stop S.C. native

COLUMBIA — Placing third in Saturday's primary was a deflating finish for South Carolina native John Edwards, but the self-described country boy has vowed to keep fishing for votes in other states. Edwards, who was born in Seneca, emphasized his humble beginnings as the son of a mill... Read More

Searching the soul

Coetzee novel 'Diary of a Bad Year' uncovers humanity

DIARY OF A BAD YEAR. By J. M. Coetzee. Viking. 227 pages. 24.95. Though he's been an Australian citizen since 2006, J.M. Coetzee, one of literature's living geniuses, will never shake his South African heritage. The model of a closed system, impenetrable from witho... Read More

Excessive talking's painful toll

The remaining presidential candidates continue to compete for the honor of giving voice to their parties' visions for America's future. But how can they fulfill that quest if their own voices give out? Friday's Wall Street Journal reports that just as White House aspirants propose conflicti... Read More

With gold rising, prospectors head to Alaska

The snow is still knee-high along the banks of Crow Creek, where men are crouching up to their chests in near-freezing water, and the air is several degrees colder. Read More

Walled City Task Force hopes to continue excavations

In August 2005, at the request of Historic Charleston Foundation, Mayor Joseph Riley created the Mayor's Walled City Task Force and appointed a group of 15 people representing the Charleston Museum, Charleston City Council, the City Public Service Department, the Charleston County Public Library,... Read More

Welcome addition to Civil War profiles

GEORGE THOMAS: Virginian for the Union. By Christopher J. Einolf. University of Oklahoma Press. 413 pages. $29.95. During the Civil War, about 100,000 white Southern men served in the Union Army. If these men had worn gray instead of blue uniforms, it is quite possible th... Read More

Monterey Jazz Festival brings anniversary celebration to town

For a lot of folks, the Monterey Jazz Festival is the quintessential American jazz celebration. This is its golden anniversary and a band is on tour marking the milestone. Read More

Sunday Calendar

Kitchen counter costs vary widely

Replacing your kitchen counters is a big project - and it can be an expensive one, too. Here's a rundown from Home & Garden Television on 10 fashionable materials for kitchen countertops, plus details on their care, pros and cons, and cost. Read More

Right course for beach funds

So far so good for what state Sen. Chip Campsen describes as a "creative way" to finance beach renourishment at the Isle of Palms as well as four other beaches in the state that are rated as the most endangered. The senator's legislation, which passed its first crucial test last week, doesn't inv... Read More

A tribute to Auschwitz's 'angels of life'

Today marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the largest of some 15,000 concentration, extermination and forced-labor camps established by the Germans during World War II. It is estimated that, at minimum, 1.3 million people were deported to Auschwitz between 1940 and 1945; of which at least 1.1 million were murdered. Read More

Aussie women's matches puzzling, unpredictable

Maria Sharapova alienates the tennis world in a way few players have. Read More

Dominant Davidson denies College of Charleston

During a frenzied 3 1/2-minute stretch of Saturday's game against Davidson, the College of Charleston outscored the Wildcats 16-4, and it could have produced a dramatic finish if the Cougars hadn't been trailing by 19 when it happened. Read More

Lebanon's struggle with terror

Lebanon has suffered another in a string of political assassinations clearly meant to replace the rule of law with a shadowy rule of terror. The perpetrators of these killings remain unknown, but the clear beneficiaries are forces aligned with Syria and Iran against Lebanon's democratic political... Read More

Legislative action for the week of Jan. 20-26

S.C. Episcopalians get bishop

Hundreds gather to see Lawrence become 14th leader of area Diocese

Mark Joseph Lawrence endured two elections in a year's span and waited patiently for confirmation that he would be the 14th bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina. His election was approved in October, and on Saturday, he was consecrated in a liturgical ceremony at the Cathedral Church of St. Luke and St. Paul in downtown Charleston. Read More

Book on Naples' mafia shocking, flawed

GOMORRAH: A Personal Journey into the Violent International Empire of Naples' Organized Crime System. By Roberto Saviano. Farrar, Straus & Giroux. 320 pages. $25. In an alternately fascinating and infuriating account of the powerful Italian organized crime phen... Read More

They're the tops

Readers share their images, stories of backyard beauties

Lots of great photos to share this week! Thanks to everyone for contributing. I've gotten so many in the past few days that I already have a good head start for next Sunday, too - but keep 'em coming. Read More

Letters to the Editor

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Nagasu skates to U.S. women's title

Now this is what figure skating has been looking for. Read More

Sights, sounds join in arts exhibit

What is the relationship between visual and aural art? Or is there one? Read More

1665 Carolina Grant reached far and wide across America

Ranked 40th in size among the states, South Carolina today is relatively small geographically, variously measured at 31,000 to 32,000 square miles. At the time of the original Carolina Grant in 1665, it was vast. Read More

Pet Briefs

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February Arts Calendar

Cougars are Clemson of the SoCon

After decades of dominance in basketball, the College of Charleston is learning what it's like to look up in the standings at its peers. Read More

Educators split on cash for early grads

Governor wants high-schoolers to get jump on college

Educators are sharply divided about a proposal in Gov. Mark Sanford's budget that would use scholarship money to encourage college-bound high school students to graduate early. Read More

Police: Suspect hindered investigation

19-year-old gave false report, according to affidavit

Police say that a high school student who was at the scene when 18-year-old Adolphus Simmons was slain Jan. 21 hindered the investigation by concealing the murder suspect's identity. Read More

Hardy finally gets chance to fulfill lifelong dream

Jeff Hardy has won a slew of titles over the course of his career. One major crown, though, has eluded him. Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Dips score on 2nd biggest eating day of year

Behind Thanksgiving, Super Bowl day is said to be the second biggest eating day of the year and No. 1 in snacks consumption. Read More

Fallen exec portrayed as corporate Casanova

David Colby was one of corporate America's most admired executives before he was abruptly fired last spring for what was vaguely described at the time as misconduct of a "non-business nature." Now details about his personal life are spilling out, and it's clear he was more than just Wall Street's darling. Read More

Rich Robinson goes from policing to preaching

Just 36, Robinson already has traversed the terrain of three very different careers. Different, but all requiring a certain frame of mind, a certain creative impulse, a certain sympathy for the strengths and weaknesses of humankind. Read More

Montserrat attractive because of what it doesn't have

WOODLANDS, Montserrat - "Island getaway" is usually an oxymoron. Read More

Charleston still holding out on dispatch center

City is only one in county that hasn't signed on

Every jurisdiction and municipality in Charleston County officially has signed on to a plan for consolidating police, fire and emergency medical dispatch centers under one roof, except for one: the city of Charleston. Read More

Hines works hard to down Bulldogs

After wreaking havoc on George Street on Thursday night, UNC Greensboro star Kyle Hines had to work hard for his double-double Saturday at McAlister Field House. Read More

Electric warming drawer can save energy

Obama victory not huge surprise, but the margin is

Across-the-board win

Most every pundit predicted that Illinois Sen. Barack Obama would win South Carolina's primary, but no one guessed that he would get twice as many votes as his nearest rival. Obama's crushing and historic victory Saturday now thrusts him into Feb. 5, when more than 20 states will vote, with a gale-force wind at his back. Read More

Well, doggone!

'Antony and Cleopatra' passionate

ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA. By Colleen McCullough. Simon and Schuster. 551 pages. $26.95. The story is well-known and beloved. It has lived on in literature, popular at least since the Elizabethan Age, when William Shakespeare introduced the tale to appreciative a... Read More

Deaths Summary

Clinton looks to Super Tuesday

S.C. faithful undaunted by loss, say campaign built for marathon

Hillary Clinton may have lost the first Southern Democratic primary, but her supporters say that's OK and that she'll show everyone on Super Tuesday when more than 20 states hold their primaries. Read More

Voters vary as widely as options

Lowcountry views reflect diverse slate

What Lowcountry voters had on their minds Saturday was every bit as diverse as the field of Democratic presidential candidates that they had to pick from. Read More

Excerpts of Obama's remarks after SC primary win

Over two weeks ago, we saw the people of Iowa proclaim that our time for change has come. But there were those who doubted this country's desire for something new, who said Iowa was a fluke, not to be repeated again. Read More

Text of Edwards' remarks after SC primary

Thank you all very much.
I want to join Senator Clinton and President Clinton in congratulating Senator Obama. Read More

State eclipses previous voter turnout

The South Carolina Democratic Party broke its own turnout record in Saturday's presidential primary and eclipsed the number of ballots cast by residents in the Republican primary the week before. Read More

Obama says victory in SC proves he has diverse backing

An exultant Barack Obama said his overwhelming win in South Carolina disproved notions that Democratic voters are deeply divided along racial lines.

"We have the most votes, the most delegates, and the most diverse coalition of Americans we've seen in a long, long time," the Illinois senator told joyful supporters at a rally.

Obama's win sets up a long hard fight ahead

Democrats head away from South Carolina today torn between two top candidates, and deeply divided along racial lines that could pull at their party throughout a long and bruising campaign.

Illinois Sen. Barack Obama won the state's primary Saturday. But he did it by winning an overwhelming majority of black votes while losing the majority of white votes, and getting a smaller share of the white vote than he had in any other state so far this year. Read More

Obama victory decisive

The unexpectedly dramatic margin of Illinois Sen. Barack Obama's South Carolina win sent ripples of excitement through his supporters Saturday night.

"This is a first-round knockout," said former S.C. Gov. Jim Hodges, "not only the volume but the margin." Read More

SC voters tap Obama with passion, history-making decision in mind

With a "Hillary for President" sign held aloft, 72-year-old Margaret Wright stood outside for more than six hours Saturday, cold and hungry but resolute as cars whizzed by in rural Charleston County. In Greenville, an anxious Stephanie Talley-Priester tossed and turned until 4 a.m. because she was so excited to get to the polls the morning after hearing Barack Obama speak at a campaign rally. Read More

From Sen. Hillary Clinton on her defeat in S.C. primary

Strong black vote helps Obama in SC

Landslide margins among black voters fueled Barack Obama to his win Saturday in South Carolina's Democratic presidential primary, allowing him to overcome the edge that Hillary Rodham Clinton and John Edwards had among whites. Read More

Edwards relaxes while waiting on returns

John Edwards waits for returns at a house of a friend, while the media rustles up dinner at Jillian's on Gervais Street in Columbia. Read More

Highlights of exit polls

Voters commented as they exited the polls Saturday. The Democratic primary in South Carolina may set record turn-out. Read More

Vote on the the way to record turn-out

A few hours before the polls closed, no problems have been noticed with polling machines across the state. The NAACP is watching carefully after there were problems in the Republican primary on Jan. 19. Read More

Voters' thinking as wide-ranging as their options

What Lowcountry voters had on their minds Saturday was every bit as diverse as the field of Democratic presidential candidates that they had to pick from. Some, like Sarah Bates of Mount Pleasant, had made up their minds after seeing their choice up close. She decided on Illinois Sen. Barack Obama after attending a rally of his. Read More

Everything you'll need to know on Election Day

The primary vote: Voters will use electronic ballots with touch screens listing the eight Democratic candidates, although four have withdrawn. Ballots will be the same in all precincts. Who can vote today: Registered voters who will turn 18 before the Nov. 4 general election. ... Read More

Clinton: Give states their delegates

In a bit of political theater, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and the Florida Democratic Party clamored to restore convention delegates that had been stripped by the national party. Read More

Democratic primary in SC marked by discussion of race

Democrats began voting here Saturday in an unusual contest that pitted Barack Obama against two Clintons. Race was a persistent subtext in the first primary to feature a large number of black voters. South Carolina became a "must win" state for Obama, whose victory in the Iowa caucuses Jan. 3 began to fade after he lost contests in Nevada and New Hampshire to Hillary Rodham Clinton. A victory could help reinforce Obama's co-frontrunner status with Clinton, while a loss would severely imperil his candidacy. Read More

SC Democrats expect record turnout for presidential primary

South Carolina election officials reported no problems Saturday morning as residents headed to Democratic primary polls a week after one county's voting machines failed to function properly during the GOP primary. Everything's going smoothly," said state Election Commission spokesman Chris Whitmire. Read More

2 kids left on school buses on same day

Two 4-year-old children were left on school buses Thursday morning in separate incidents in Hollywood and on Johns Island. In one instance, a boy who attends pre-kindergarten at Blaney Elementary School was discovered by another driver after being left alone for about an hour and 20 minute... Read More

N. Chas. police arrest 4 men in 2 drug raids

North Charleston police arrested several men on charges of manufacturing and trafficking crack cocaine this week in separate investigations that netted guns and thousands of dollars in cash. Officers executing a search warrant at 4010 Olivia Drive in the Glyn Terrace area Thursday found 13... Read More

Q&A: MC Hammer busting moves on dance site

Stop! Hammer Time! Again! Read More

Road wear at issue

Council looks at mining trucks

SUMMERVILLE — Dorchester County residents aren't giving up their fight to keep mining trucks from tearing up roads. It's a battle that pits property rights against taxpayer dollars. Council shelved a proposal to limit sand mines to industrial areas earlier this month, after pr... Read More

News flash

Celine Dion in L.A.; Angelica Huston joins "Medium"; John Legend going sky high. Read more ... Read More

On stick shifts and saving tires

Columnist Brendan I. Koerner, writing late last year for the online magazine Slate, considered the question, "Are manual transmissions better for the environment?" Read More

Getting Defensive

College of Charleston women's basketball coach Nancy Wilson doesn't recall mentioning to her team that the Cougars rank second in the nation in field goal percentage defense. "For the most part, we don't talk about statistics," Wilson said. "I think I did mention at the beginning of the ye... Read More

Winter car show warms up to classic autos

Not a month goes by free of auto shows in the Charleston area anymore. Still, one event, the Winter Warm Up Car Show, stands out as an unofficial launch to the new year of cruise-ins, festivals and concours. Read More

Doesn't get any easier for C of C

A temporary case of amnesia may be in the College of Charleston Cougars' best interest. The Cougars got blown out Thursday night at home by UNC Greensboro, 88-71, and on tap at 5 p.m. today in John Kresse Arena is a game against Southern Conference heavyweight Davidson (12-6, 10-0). ... Read More

Plastic bags an environmental threat

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Project builds in flexibility

The renderings show several buildings at the corner of Morrison Drive and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge off-ramp on the Charleston peninsula. But developer William Cogswell still doesn't know what types of occupants will find the now-vacant lot an enticing location for a residence or business. Read More

Briefly

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West Ashley couple unearths '50s-era car

Maybe it was in the back of Vern Lemacks' mind when he started shoveling in a soft depression below concrete and brickbat supporting an old trailer. He thought the space held a septic tank, an expected find in an area of West Ashley that lacked sewer service until the 1980s. Read More

Tigers land commitment from A.C. Flora lineman

State Report A.C. Flora offensive lineman Kenneth Page (6-3, 290) committed Friday to the Clemson football program during a news conference at his school in Columbia. Page said he made his decision late Thursday, picking the Tigers over North Carolina. Tennessee and ... Read More

Ex-Force Protection worker admits kickbacks

A Charleston man admitted Friday that he took illegal kickbacks of more than $100,000 from a company that supplies defense contractor Force Protection Inc. Michael Timothy Carter, 49, pleaded guilty to taking payments in exchange for steering business to Force Protection while working for ... Read More

The unfinished business of Iraq needs airing by candidates

There is an old Thai proverb that says it is worthwhile helping an elephant that is trying to stand up, but useless helping one that is falling down. Retired Army Gen. Barry R. McCaffrey currently is an adjunct professor of international affairs at the U.S. Military Academy (West Point). I... Read More

West Ashley woman being treated against rabies

A West Ashley woman is being inoculated against rabies after she came in contact with a raccoon that tested positive for the disease, health officials said Friday. "The woman might have been exposed to the virus that causes rabies while rescuing her cat after it was attacked by a raccoon i... Read More

Put sensible limits on plastic bags

Three letters from readers published on this page today reflect rising public concern about the consequences of answering that inevitable question at the supermarket checkout: "Paper or plastic?" They coincide with a decision made this week by the 270-store Whole Food supermarket chain to phase o... Read More

The Citadel's Robinson calls it a career

Bulldogs AD ready to 'do other things'

During The Citadel's basketball game with Davidson on Thursday night, Les Robinson's cell phone buzzed with a text message. It was from his 14-year-old granddaughter, who wrote, "You are jealous. I'm going to almost heaven, West Virginia." Starting in June, The Citadel's 65-year-old athletic director will have a lot more time to join his wife, Barbara, and their eight grandchildren on such adventures. ... Read More

Johnson gets to come home again

COLUMBIA — Ellis Johnson is getting to come home after all. Just not the way he'd imagined. Twenty days after being hired at Arkansas, Johnson is now setting things in motion to move here and become South Carolina's new defensive coordinator. "I've always had getting back to t... Read More

Picturesque streetscapes, updated amenities center anchor College Park Rd. neighborhood

They're quaint ranch-style houses that have proven popular with renters for two decades. Located in the Crowfield Village neighborhood in Ladson, the dwellings have been so attractive, in fact, that a Virginia real estate company began converting them to home ownership beginning in 2007. ... Read More

Rollicking 'Crowns' also deeply spiritual

How many hats do you have? No, make that "How many crowns do you have?" According to the hat ladies, you can't have too many. Regina Taylor's "Crowns," which opened Friday night at Footlight Players is a rollicking, lively and at the same time deeply spiritual examination of hats in the li... Read More

Judge rules gun sting not illegal

Dealers argued New York City violated law in attempted 'straw puchases'

NEW YORK — A federal judge on Friday said that Mayor Michael Bloomberg's administration did not commit a crime when it sent undercover investigators into gun shops to attempt illegal weapons purchases. The city said the ruling was good news for its case, but the gun dealers think it ... Read More

Test for Iraq's 'real army'

Not just more good news on Iraq. Amazingly good news from Iraq. The nation's much maligned president, Nouri al-Maliki, is at last standing tall. "Now we have a real army," The Associated Press reported him announcing proudly Friday. "The days when the militants could do anything in front of our ... Read More

Pressure on appraisers brings whistle-blower suit

Veteran real estate appraisers have complained bitterly for years about loan officers' demands that they fudge and inflate numbers to allow mortgage deals to close. Read More

'Twisted Tango' a top-flight show

The red-hot bravura and unyielding focus of the Charleston Ballet Theatre's "Twisted Tango," which opened Friday at the CBT's King Street Studio, brought to mind Al Pacino's tour de force as the blind tango dancer in the film "Scent of a Woman." Friday's sold-out performance of the world pr... Read More

Roadwatch

Sottile CSO series kicks off calmly

With a salute to the romantic composer Franz Schubert's "An die Musik," Conductor Scott Terrell started a Friday night CSO concert with the contemporary composer John Corigliano's "To Music." Music calms the difficulties in one's life, as Terrell emphasized, and the CSO successfully set the mood ... Read More

Classic Keaton winning us over again

Maybe it's because Diane Keaton first became famous for playing Annie Hall, a character that Woody Allen named and modeled after her, that the promise of her playing a true-to-type character is always so appealing. (Keaton's real surname is Hall, and Annie is a nickname.) ... Read More

Felled trees net man 110 tickets

Largest fine for code violation in Berkeley County given to 69-acre owner

MONCKS CORNER — A Berkeley County landowner was fined $119,625 after 110 trees were cut down in the buffer zone of his U.S. Highway 52 property. County Code Enforcement officers wrote 110 misdemeanor tickets charging William J. Hall of North Charleston with violating the county's code regulating trees within 15 to 25 feet of the property line. ... Read More

Good Morning Lowcountry

Evaluators to visit Berkeley schools

Education experts to examine progress with national reform strategy

All 12 middle schools in Berkeley County will receive site visits and detailed evaluations from a team of education experts in the coming months, a process that's similar to the rigorous review given to schools rated unsatisfactory on state report cards. But the Berkeley schools aren't opening their doors to the visitors because their ratings have plunged. ... Read More

Letters to the Editor

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2 more arrests in homicide

Another 15-year-old charged in killing

North Charleston police have charged two more teenagers in Monday's slaying of 18-year-old Adolphus Simmons, and they said there could be additional arrests. On Friday, a 15-year-old boy and Jackuez Witherspoon, 19, were arrested and charged with accessory after the fact of murder, said Sp... Read More

Ask Elsa

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Deaths Summary

S.C. Lottery

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Snail's pace for oyster traffic

Patience urged in driving to Boone Hall for giant roast

MOUNT PLEASANT — A little extra time could be that special ingredient that helps the masses savor Sunday's giant oyster roast at Boone Hall Plantation. With attendance estimated at 8,000 to 10,000, about the same or a little more than last year, roads to the 25th annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival could be congested. ... Read More

Influence of Super Tuesday minimized by close races

Battle for delegates in both parties is so tight that fight for nomination will go past Feb. 5

WASHINGTON — Don't look to crown any presidential nominees on Super Tuesday. The race for delegates is so close in both parties that it is mathematically impossible for any candidate to lock up the nomination Feb. 5, according to an Associated Press analysis of the states in play th... Read More