Vehicle Decals - Hilton Head Plantation
Transcription
Vehicle Decals - Hilton Head Plantation
Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Inside Plantation Living: POA Board Report President’s Report……..…… General Manager’s Report.. POA Information ARB Reminder……………..… HH PSD Report…..………….. Building a Boardwalk-Part I Nature Notes…………………. Plantation Golfing……..….… Security Report………………. Hilton Head Plantation Clubs Artists Association….………. Big Wheels…….………………. Bridge Winners………………. Cheers by the Sound………. Craft Workshop…..…………. Curtain Calls……....…………. Farmers Club…………...…… Fishing Club……………...…… Happy Times Society………. HHP Women’s Club..………. Rubber Stamping Club……. Tennis Social Club.…………. Woodcarvers….……...……… Yacht Club……………….……. Yoga with Ruth………….….. Recreation Activities 2005 KIDS KAMP……....…… Arts Center Tickets…………. Assisted vs. Independent… Evening Cardio Splash……. Health & Fitness Programs. Music & Sunset Concert.…. Teen/Pre-Teen Club Night. Water Aerobics………....…… Feature Article…………………. Volume 19/Issue 7 – July15, 2005 Vehicle Decals 2 3 7 10 8 5 9 6 22 12 12 14 14 14 12 13 12 13 14 13 12 14 12 21 21 21 20 20 19 21 20 22 Your Hurricane Evacuation Guide is available on pp 15-18. Tear it out and take it with you. As I am sure you know, all vehicles within our Plantation are required to have either a current decal or a visitor’s pass. At the beginning of each month, HHP Security Officers are trained to watch for vehicles with expired decals. Officers explain to the vehicle operators that they will need to obtain a visitor’s pass until they can stop by the POA Service Center to renew their decal. A few residents have questioned why we do this rather than sending out reminder letters when decals are close to expiring. The answer is cost. With thousands of vehicles having some type of HHP Decal, the staff time, postage, and stationary to perform this function would ultimately be passed along as an assessment increase. Instead, vehicle owners are responsible for keeping their vehicles decals current. If you have an expired decal, the gate officer will stop your vehicle, black out the expired year on the decal, and instruct you to drive around to the visitors’ gate to obtain a pass until you have updated your decal at the POA Service Center. Why can’t the officers at the Resident Gate issue the visitors pass? They will issue passes during slow periods or when the visitors’ gate is closed. However, due to the high volume of traffic that uses the resident’s entrance at the Main Gate, individuals who need a pass are instructed to use the visitors’ gate. The best way to avoid being stopped for an expired decal is to check your vehicle decals periodically. The number on the passenger side of the decal is the month and he number on the driver’s side is the year. Remember, when applying for or renewing a decal, you must have three items: CURRENT: • Vehicle Registration • Proof of Insurance • Driver’s License If you sell your vehicle, please remember to scrape the decal off the windshield before you turn the vehicle over to the new owner. This is an often-overlooked task. Visit Hilton Head Plantation’s website at www.hiltonheadplantation.com Page 2 – July 2005 POA Board Report Hilton Head Plantation Property Owners’ Association 7 Surrey Lane – PO Box 21940 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 Board of Directors President Merry Harlacher Vice President Charles Cherrix Secretary/Treasurer Tom Hoppin Members Guy Bettarelli Jim Collett Paul Kopelcheck Tom Kuczkowski Dick Sell Mary Ann Strayer Bill Trecartin POA Staff General Manager Activities Administration Communications Community Relations Maintenance Security Tennis Pro Peter Kristian Arlene Reisner Todd Lindstrom Linda Helgerson Dick Wirth John Ehlers Art Benoit Keith Ferda Important Phone Numbers POA Service Center 843/681-8800 Accounting Ext. 235 Activities Ext. 226 Architectural Review Bd Ext. 231 Bd of Directors Hotline Ext. 8 Covenant Enforcement Ext. 242 General Manager Ext. 233 Maintenance Ext. 241 Tennis Hotline Ext. 300 Vehicle Decals Ext. 223 Communications 816-5955 Dispatch 681-2459 Dolphin Head Building 681-8019 Pass Line 342-9980 Plantation House Schedule 681-8090 Security Office 681-3053 Spring Lake Pavilion 681-3707 Spring Lake Pool Information 689-6473 Spring Lake Tennis 681-3626 Emergencies Fire & Ambulance Main Gate Security Dial 911 681-2477 President’s Report______________ I hope that you and your guests had a fun and safe 4th of July. he fireworks were great again this year. Be sure to thank the sponsors and the Town Fathers when you have a chance. They need positive feedback to retain the Skull Creek Display. Repairs to the Whooping Crane Conservancy Boardwalk have begun. The Hilton Head Plantation Conservancy Foundation and the Hilton Head Land Trust are funding this project, thanks to your generosity. Your continued support of the Foundation is essential to the timely completion of this project. At our June 28th Meeting, your Board gave the go-ahead to replacing the POA’s radio system with one that will improve coverage throughout the Plantation. The proposed system has been tested and it effectively covers areas where our current system is inadequate. We also reviewed the Strategic Plans status of Communications and Security. We asked the Communications Committee to hold off publishing a new Directory until a survey is completed addressing its usefulness. We encouraged the Security Committee to pursue video cameras in the patrol cars and at the gates. These cameras will enhance our security enforcement efforts. As we continue to set the stage for the 2006 Budget, we approved Capital and Repair & Replacement items for inclusion. Our financial performance thus far this year continues on budget. You will no doubt continue to read about Hargray’s efforts to get into the video delivery business and Adelphia’s efforts to block them. Both companies already have facilities throughout the Plantation and can use them for a variety of purposes. We have no control over the “content” that passes through their systems. The issues between them are generic among telephone and cable systems around the country and are being addressed by several states as well as the Federal Government. We can only wait to see how it all ultimately shakes out at those levels. Hopefully, the final decisions will result in improved services to HHP residents. Mayor Tom Peoples has accepted our invitation to join the Board for coffee and discussion before our next meeting. This is your Board’s second meeting with community leaders, focused on exploring current and future issues important to all of us. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Merry Harlacher POA Board Report General Manager’s Report_________ Coffee with Peter Please mark your calendars for our Saturday, July 30, 10:00 AM Coffee at the Plantation House. Our agenda will feature many questions asked by residents, such as What is the status of our new cellular antenna system? Is my cellular provider on the system? Nat Bargmann of the Crown Castle Solutions will update us on his company’s marketing efforts. We will also have Dave Morse from the HHP Fishing Club give us a brief presentation on a natural resource and capital investment that is often overlooked – the fish in our lakes and lagoons. As always this will be an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with all the activities of the POA. We will provide an ample opportunity for questions from residents. I look forward to seeing you on July 30. Hurricanes Please review the Hurricane Evacuation Information on pages 15-18 in this issue. This section is intended to be a tear-out for you to retain as a reference. Please note that the evacuation route has been modified from last year. Extensive and updated information regarding hurricane preparedness and recovery can be found on HHP’s website hiltonheadplantation.com. Hover on the Security button on the left side of the screen and then click on Hurricane Preparedness. We strongly suggest that you print out this important information, read it, use the information to assemble your Hurricane Evacuation Kit, and take the information with you in the event of an evacuation. If you do not have a computer or Internet access, you can pick up the document at the POA Service Center. The Plantation’s Hurricane Re-Entry Hot Line is 1-(877) 264-5267. Please jot this number down and keep it with your evacuation kit. Now is the time to organize your belongings and get prepared for the possibility of evacuation. Our guide will be very helpful in preparing your evacuation kit. In the unlikely event of an evacuation, remember that upon your return, services may be questionable. You need to make every effort to keep yourself and your family self-sufficient for as long as possible. This means stocking up on non-perishable foods and stockpiling a supply of bottled water. If you have mapped out a different evacuation route for you and your family, you must leave before the Governor calls a mandatory evacuation. Otherwise, you will be forced to use the designated routes. Hurricane Shutters For those of you who have ARB-approved hurricane shutters, shutters may be installed when a Hurricane Watch is issued for our area by local government. Latitude will be granted on a storm-by-storm basis in administering the hurricane shutter provisions. Hurricane shutters may not be installed and left on the structure for the entire hurricane season. Remove hurricane shutters as soon as possible after a storm has passed and re-entry into the Plantation is permitted. Re-entry We have been advised that only residents/property owners will be allowed to re-enter the area after it has been deemed safe by Emergency Management officials. To that end, you will need a valid driver’s license indicating your HHP address or your HHP photo ID card indicating you are a property owner. July 2005 – Page 3 COFFEE WITH PETER Date: Time: Place: Guest: Sat, July 30th 10:00 AM Plantation House Crown Castle Validate Your Photo ID & House Guest Cards for 2005 at the POA Service Center. You MUST see the exquisite HHP photographs The photographs submitted for the 2005 Photography Contest are on display at the Plantation House. Go see what life in our Plantation looks like through the lens of many talented photographers. Notice When speaking to a member of the Security Department, your conversation may be recorded for quality assurance. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Page 4 – July 2005 Headliners Concert This is a great event! Mark your calendars for Wednesday evening, July 28 for this outstanding evening of entertainment. The Headliners, who are known throughout the Island for their exceptional music, will be performing at the Plantation House. The concert begins at 7:00 PM and ends at 9:00 PM. The parking lot of the Plantation House will be turned into both a dance floor and an outdoor theater. A limited number of chairs will be available so please plan on bringing your own chairs. Picnicking is encouraged. Parking will be available in the field adjacent to the tennis courts. Red Bay Trees The Board recently authorized additional funds for the removal of dead Red Bay Trees on POA common property. These additional funds will be used to remove these trees on a priority basis, safety being the first criteria and proximity to main thoroughfares the second. Remember the POA Board has waived the $25.00 tree removal permit fee for Red Bay trees on private property through December 31, 2005. You will still need to secure a permit for the removal of Red Bay trees; however, the $25.00 fee will be waived. The fee is still in place for all other species of trees. If you remove a dead Red Bay tree or any tree for that matter, please dispose of the debris properly. Residents can bring the brush to the POA’s maintenance yard for disposal. POA Board Report Technology and the POA The POA continues to make strides to integrate new and more efficient technology into our operations. If you have visited the Plantation House, you may have noticed that the large screen TV has been replaced with a projector that will display TV programs, DVD, VHS tapes as well as software presentations. The Security Department now has special software that permits it to write State reports on a dedicated computer station and email the finished report directly to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. I am writing this column in North Carolina on a laptop computer purchased last year. The column was emailed to the POA Service Center via a special email link that allows authorized employees to access their POA email and work on files directly from the Internet. Our website hiltonheadplantation.com is chock full of additional useful information such as several years worth of Plantation Living newsletters, the POA’s governing documents, Hurricane Preparedness information, minutes of Board and Committee meetings and tons of other valuable information. We have investigated and approved a new radio system for the Security Department that will provide a greater margin of reliability. Also under consideration for the future is the installation of cameras in our patrol vehicles to assist with DUI, moving violation convictions, and also provide another measure of quality control. We are not buying or using technology for technology’s sake but rather looking at how technology will save money, make us more efficient and improve our customer service. Stay tune on this issue. There will be more to come. Projects Spring Lake Aerator - A new aerator has been installed in Spring Lake to help oxygenate the water to help avoid fish kills. The Aerator is on a timer and is set to run between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM daily. RV/Boat Storage Expansion - Staff continues to work with the Town of Hilton Head to obtain the necessary permits to enable us to begin construction on this project. Paving - Due to our unusually wet weather, our paving project has suffered some delays. If your street is on this year’s paving list, please be on the look out for door hangers indicating that paving will be occurring in your area. Please observe the directions of the flagman that will be controlling traffic during paving operations. Bocce/Shuffle Board - The Board has tabled consideration of the construction of three shuffleboard and two bocce ball courts adjacent to the Spring Lake Tennis Complex. This item was sent back to the Recreation Committee for further evaluation in light of all the competing capital Recreational projects that deserve consideration. New Radio System - After extensive exploration and testing of both cellular and radio products the HHP Board authorized the purchase of a new Motorola Radio system for the POA. The new radios and related equipment will cost approximately $65,000 and will be used by the Security and Maintenance Departments. The radio system was extensively tested throughout the Plantation with excellent results, which were superior to our present thirteen plus years old system. As with any radio system, the manufacturer will only guarantee 95% reliability. This is the same standard used by Beaufort County and other surrounding communities. The system will take up to six months to become operational due to licensing requirements, securing equipment and installation. We will expedite this process as much as practicable. Stay Safe Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Peter Kristian POA Information July 2005 – Page 5 Nature Notes: Palms & Palmettos_____________________ CABBAGE PALMS Sabal Palm, Cabbage Palm, Carolina Palm, and Swamp Cabbage are all names for the state tree of South Carolina and Florida. It is the only true palm tree that is native to our state. The name comes from the Spanish word “palmito” which means small palm. Cabbage Palms grow in a wide variety of habitats near the coast from Florida to North Carolina, and can reach 60 feet and live 75 years. The leaves, or fronds, are 4-7 feet long and consist of many long narrow segments that have thread-like fibers hanging between the segments. The 5-8 foot petiole, or stem, is rigid and extends as a pointed wedge well into the frond. As new fronds are formed in the crown, older fronds die and eventually are broken off by the weight of animals or high winds. The terminal bud or center of growth is what we eat as “hearts of palm”. The tender “heart” tastes like cabbage and was enjoyed by Native Americans. The cabbage flavor gave the plant its commonly used name, Cabbage Palm. When the “heart” is cut out it kills the tree, but the product you buy as Hearts of Palm is now taken from cultivated trees. In early summer the clusters of fragrant creamy flowers on a separate stalk attract bees, and in winter, wild life eat the mature black berries. Until modern times Cabbage Palms were cut and the trunks used for docks and as pilings because sea worms don’t destroy them. The graybrown trunk is well adapted for hurricane force winds because its soft wood bends, preventing the tree from being uprooted or snapped off. The soft wood core is composed of long moist fibers that decompose when the tree dies, leaving the shell of the outer covering. The fronds have been used to make brooms and baskets. The coils of Gullah sweet grass baskets are bound together with split fronds of Cabbage Palms. The original flag of South Carolina, designed during the Revolutionary War, featured a background of blue like the soldier’s uniforms and three silver crescent moons similar to their cap insignia. The present flag was adopted by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1861 when South Carolina seceded from the Union. The blue background and one crescent moon were kept, and a Palmetto was added to honor the tree used to build the Revolutionary War fort at Ft. Moultrie in Charleston harbor. Hardwood trees were usually used to build forts, but when hit by a cannonball hardwood trees exploded into a mass of splinters, like modern shrapnel, that caused major disabling wounds. The soft wood of the Palmetto absorbed the blow of the cannonball, and the defenders received no wounds from splintered wood. SAW PALMETTO The Saw Palmetto is not a true palm but is considered a shrub. It forms a thicket of fronds that are 6-7 feet tall, and it is often used as a boundary plant. The stem or trunk runs underground like a rhizome and the green fronds extend from this recumbent trunk. Having the trunk underground makes the plant very fire resistant. The fronds are 2-3 feet across and extend from a flat junction with the stem. The plant gets its name from the sharp spines that run on each side of the stem that are sharp enough to cause serious cuts if you walk through them. This makes the thickets safe homes for rats, snakes, and birds. The plant is well known for its medicinal uses. Native Indians made a drink from leaves and roots to treat dysentery and to relieve stomach pains. They also made a poultice from the inner bark and applied it to snakebites and insect bites. The fruit was used to treat respiratory infections and as a sedative. Today the fruit, which contains a special fat, is widely used in nonprescription drugs for prostate problems. -- Mary Bess Mulhollan Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Page 6 – July 2005 Distributed Cellular System in Operation The distributed cellular antenna system for Hilton Head Plantation has been operational since early January 2005. The system is owned and operated by Crown Castle International. They market and lease it to the various cellular carriers. The individual carriers decide whether or not they need to use the system to improve the service they provide within HHP. The current status of carrier subscription is shown below. If your cell phone service does not meet your expectations, contact your carrier (preferably the local office) or switch to another carrier. Those carriers that use the distributed system in HHP will generally provide good service throughout the Plantation. Distributed Cellular System Status System online – 1/05 Carriers on the System 7/05 ALLTEL Yes AT&T/Suncom No Cingular Yes Hargray No Nextel No Sprint No T Mobile No Triton/Suncom Yes Verizon No POA Information Community Policing______________ We have been asked how our large community is able to keep the crime rate in check when compared to the greater Hilton Head Island community. The answer is simple; we employ the community policing philosophy throughout the Security Department. We are here not only to enforce the laws and keep the peace but also to help HHP residents. Community policing has been defined as a collaborative effort between Law Enforcement and the community that identifies problems of crime and enhances the quality of life in the community. Many policing concepts in recent years have tended to isolate officers from the community they serve, which can hamper crime control efforts. A good community-policing agency is charged with the responsibility of crime prevention. Most traditional law enforcement agencies are charged with ‘solving’ the crime problem, the drug problem, the DUI problem, the domestic violence problem and so on. Those efforts are predominately REACTIVE. Community policing allows a Security Department to get back to the principles upon which policing was founded – to integrate itself into the fabric of the community so the people come to Security for counsel and help before a serious problem arises. This allows the officers to provide PROACTIVE solutions. For any community-policing program to be beneficial, there must be a long-term commitment from everyone involved. Our goal has always been to form lasting partnerships with our community. By providing non-law enforcement services to our residents, it opens lines of communications and enhances our crime prevention efforts in a big way. Each and every call for service, whether it is in response to a medical emergency or a call for a jumpstart, gets our officers out into the community so they can establish a rapport and a level of trust with residents. Such services enhance the flow of information from Plantation residents. Crime seems to be on the increase outside our gates, and Hilton Head Plantation is by no means crime fee. However, our community policing philosophy decreases the likelihood of criminal activity gaining a foothold on the Plantation. We encourage the community to express their concerns over crime related or quality of life issues. We will continue to work with the community to provide problemsolving activities. Please join us in our efforts to keep Hilton Head Plantation a safe and enjoyable community. If you see something that doesn’t look right, report it. If you have a crime or safety concern call me – or better yet – stop by the Security Office and we’ll discuss it over coffee. -- Art Benoit, Director of Security Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation POA Information July 2005 – Page 7 Mosquitoes: A Correction__________ In the June 2005 Plantation Living, the article “Our Paradise Is Not Without Its Pests” described Beaufort County’s program using New Jersey Light traps to collect mosquitoes to determine the kind and quantity of mosquitoes in various locations throughout the County. The article suggested that HHP residents call Beaufort County and volunteer by having a trap installed on their property. And, that is exactly what many of you did, only to find that the County has a sufficient number of traps already in place, including inside of Hilton Head Plantation. Although we apologize for any inconvenience, we are most impressed that so many of you were willing to cooperate with the County’s program. The Propane Club: An Update______ The HHP Propane Club is still accepting new members. Propane is available at $1.20 per gallon. No membership, fees, or dues are required although to be eligible for the Propane Club’s price per gallon, you must buy or lease your tank from Sunset Propane, Inc. Call 757-4545 and ask for the Propane Club price. Workout the Westin Way! Join The Westin Resort Health Club during the month of June, July or August 2005 and receive a special summer rate! $65 for an individual, or $110 for a Husband/Wife, monthly membership The Westin Resort Health Club is a fully equipped, state–of–the-art Health Club with a spectacular view of ocean, the grand courtyard and indoor pool. A knowledgeable staff provides individualized instruction, massage therapy, and a variety of classes. Your monthly membership includes an orientation with a certified trainer, use of the strength training and cardiovascular equipment, all fitness classes, use of all three pools, Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, shower facilities, and miles of beaches. (843) 681-4000 * Port Royal Plantation * Hilton Head, SC ARB Reminder___ Recently there have been several incidents where property owners have constructed additions to their homes without prior approval and permitting from the Plantation or the Town. Some constructions were minor, such as adding windows; others were as large as adding a porch, a gazebo, or a fire pit. In some cases the property owners were not aware of the rules and regulations; in other cases the property owner left the whole project for the contractor to accomplish. Please do not let this happen with your property. Please, please, call the ARB office 6818800, ext. 231 and ask what the Plantation requirements are. The cost of removal and fines levied are far higher than just asking a few questions and following the ARB Guidelines. We are here to help you. We will enjoy meeting with you to discuss your plans for enhancing your property. For additional information, the following documents are readily available on HHP’s website in the Documents, Forms & Minutes section: • HHPPOA Rules & Regulations • ARB Guidelines 2005 • ARB Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) There’s loads of information on www.hiltonheadplantation.com. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Page 8 – July 2005 WHAT WAS THAT? Did I see a Turn Signal Flashing? Probably not… There’s a joke about driving in South Carolina that goes like this… When you order a new car in SC, you have a choice of getting windshield wipers or turn signals. Almost everyone opts for the wipers. On most driving days, we would probably all agree. If the lack of turn signal use were the only driving problem, we’d be in tall clover. On our Plantation roads, too many drivers mimic what one sees on Route 278 everyday, all day long. In the Plantation, we need to do a better job at exercising and promoting safe driving. Here are some common driving practices seen daily on Plantation roads that could lead to injury or worse – • Excessive speed • Driving too close behind another vehicle • Using a cell phone while driving, particularly when turning onto a right-of-way • Failing to signal • Not stopping at a stop sign (Rolling stops don’t count!) or yielding at yield signs We’re all in the driving survival game – adhering to common-sense rules of the road will definitely prolong that game for all of us. POA Information WC Boardwalk is Under Construction_ by Larry Waterhouse * The Conservancy Will Be Closed During Construction * As you read this, replacement of the Whooping Crane Conservancy Boardwalk has commenced. The HHP Conservancy Foundation selected the DeSimone Construction Company to replace the boardwalk with work beginning on or about July 1st. Replacing the boardwalk will take three to four months, during which time the entire Conservancy will be closed. Approved by the IRS in November 2003 as a not-for-profit foundation, the HHP Conservancy Foundation has received more than $90,000 in contributions from HHP residents, Lowcountry businesses, and the Hilton Head Island Land Trust, making replacement of the boardwalk possible. The original 1,500-foot boardwalk was designed by Todd Ballantine in 1975 and built by volunteers and HHP employees. Beany Newhall, who was instrumental in convincing Charles Fraser in 1972 to set aside 90 acres within HHP for a conservancy, provided the financial support for the boardwalk, and this boardwalk was dedicated to Beany in 1985 for her tireless efforts in having land preserved for all to enjoy. The 50acre Audubon Newhall Preserve, located on Palmetto Bay Road, is another conservancy that Beany obtained from Charles Fraser during the development of Sea Pines Plantation. In 1997, when the Whooping Crane Conservancy was deeded to HHPPOA, the acreage was increased to 137 acres. Highlights of all phases of the boardwalk construction will be featured in Plantation Living over the next several months, thanks to the expert photography of Larry Coffin, and we also plan to intrigue you with some early history of Whooping Crane Pond Conservancy in upcoming articles in this newsletter. The HHP Conservancy Foundation is most grateful to those who have donated the necessary funds for this project, assuring that this important amenity within our Plantation will be available for all residents, their friends and guests, to enjoy. Donations to the HHP Conservancy Foundation are always welcomed, and solicitations are continuing. We encourage your generosity. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation POA Information July 2005 – Page 9 Plantation Golfing________________________________ by Gary Hooper Dolphin Head Golf Club Dolphin Head recently conducted their Annual Lady Patriot Games Tournament. This was a two-day competition, with the competitors divided into three teams of eleven members (Red, White, and Blue). The sum of each team’s individual net stableford scores for the two days resulted in the final scores. The Blue Team finished first with 695 points, the Red Team coming in a close second with 688 points, and the White Team third with 670 points. Tournament single day highs were posted by Mary Parrella (41) and Linda Hahn (40). Tournament total two-day highs were Linda Hahn (71), Nancy Nettleton (70), and Mary Parrella (70). Champion Blue Team Members (Left to right) Helen Heberton, Connie Hooper, Barb O’Brien, Chris Nichols, Dolly Thompson, Linda Hahn, Betty Eberle, Sherry Bartels, Carol Wolff, Mo Conroy, Jean Burnett Hilton Head Island Men’s Interclub Golf Association The Club Interclub Association has completed the 2005 season. Each of the ten Clubs hosted a one-day competition during the season. The competition is a dual-format match play – (1) Twoman, better ball match play, and (2) individual match play. Dolphin Head Golf Club hosted the year’s final match. The top five teams of the year, honored at an Annual Awards Luncheon, were: First – Long Cove; Second – Moss Creek; Third – Country Club of Hilton Head; Fourth – Port Royal; Fifth – Dolphin Head. Bear Creek Golf Club The Back Nine Renovation is underway. An 18th Green “Bulldozing” member’s party was held on June 21. Member’s gathered to see the major beginning of the Rees Jones update efforts. Work is continuing on green collars, bunkers, and tees. The redesign should be completed in early September. At the Bulldozing Party (Left to Right) Sally Bowler, Lynn Conant, Louise Lang, Marcia Collett Rules Teaser of the Month Source: Decisions on The Rules of Golf, published by the USGA. (Decision 22/6) Q. In stroke play, Joe’s ball lies just off the putting green. Bill’s ball lies near the hole, in a position to serve as a backstop for Joe’s ball. Joe requests Bill to not mark and lift his ball. Is this request proper? A. No. If a competitor and a fellow-competitor agree to exclude the operation of Rule 22-1, both should be disqualified under Rule 1-3. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Page 10 – July 2005 POA Information HH PSD: Meeting Today’s Needs & Planning for Tomorrow_ by Richard Cyr, General Manager, HH PSD During this last year, your Hilton Head Public Service District (PSD) has concentrated on improving the financial viability of your water and wastewater utility, including reviewing our rates, fees and charges to reflect the actual cost of providing our water and wastewater services. We also completed several major planning efforts and began implementing the plans. At the same time, the PSD has continued to provide reliable, high quality water services, environmentally responsible wastewater service and improved our customer service. Financial Viability Improved Over the last several years the PSD has experienced increased operating costs in almost all areas such as fuel, power, wholesale water and equipment, but we have been able to maintain stable rates. The Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA), the supplier of over half of the District’s water supply, has informed the District of a 16.8 percent increase in our wholesale water rate to be effective July 1, 2005. In the face of significant upward rate pressure, the PSD has reduced costs and improved employee productivity. In the last two years, significant action has been taken by the PSD Commissioners to reduce debt and debt service. This year, the Commission took advantage of an opportunity to pre-pay the 1995 Revenue Bond Series. The impact of this action was to avoid a rate increase this year and for possibly several years in the future. In the three-year period ending fiscal year 2006, the PSD will have achieved the following debt reductions: • System debt decreased by $9.6 million or 17.3 percent, • Future interest payments decreased by $9.9 million or 30.5 percent, • Total debt service (principal and interest) decreased by $19.5 or 22.2 percent. Rates, Fees and Charges Reviewed This spring, the PSD Commissioners completed a review of all District rates, fees and charges with the expressed purpose of establishing cost-of-service based charges. Cost-of-service charges include only the costs of providing the water and wastewater services. All subsidies between our water and wastewater utility services were eliminated. Each utility rate or charge reflects only the costs of providing that particular service. A re-occurring concern of our customers has been the perception of paying extra sewer charges to water their lawn. Some customers have installed irrigation meters or even a shallow irrigation well to avoid sewer charges. The Commission was impressed with flat sewer rates, but wanted to recognize low consumption water users; therefore a new sewer rate structure was approved. As of July 1, 2005, sewer charges will be capped after the first 10,000 gallons per month of water used, as opposed to the current cap of 32,000 gallons per month of water used. Fiscal Year 2006 Budget Highlights The PSD Commission in June approved a balanced operating budget for Fiscal Year 2006, representing $9.9 million in both revenues and expenses. In addition to the residential sewer rate cap, other highlights are: • Absorbing the 16.8 percent hike in wholesale water rates from BJWSA. Your PSD does not intend to pass this rate hike on to our customers. • Reducing staff levels by 5 percent. The staff level has been reduced by 17 percent since 2003, while the number of customers has risen by 9 percent over the same period. An additional 300 customers are anticipated in the 2006 budget. • Implementing long-range plans to: provide sewer access throughout the PSD; improve the water distribution system; identify future water supply; and maintain and replace major equipment. Major Projects Underway Last year saw the completion of several major planning efforts and implementation of these plans has already begun. These efforts include our search for a future water supply for the Island; providing all properties in the PSD with access to the sewer system; and improving our water distribution system. We believe these vital projects will impact life for generations. Water Supply Search Saltwater intrusion into the Island’s primary groundwater source – the Upper Floridan Aquifer – has prompted the PSD to search for a new water supply by 2008. Our search for a safe, reliable and long-term supply has led us to explore the use of two different aquifers – the Middle Floridan Aquifer and the Cretaceous Aquifer. The Middle Floridan Aquifer sits about 500 feet below sea level, while the Cretaceous Aquifer is about 4,000 feet below sea level. The PSD would need to build a state-of-the-art reverse osmosis treatment plant in order to utilize the deeper groundwater found in the Middle Floridan and Cretaceous aquifers. Reverse osmosis technology is not new to the Island. South Island PSD has successfully used it for several years. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation POA Information July 2005 – Page 11 We have completed hydrogeology studies showing that pumping groundwater from the Middle Floridan Aquifer may actually improve the health of the Upper Floridan Aquifer over time. This fascinating science is only part of the search effort. We are currently evaluating potential locations for a reverse osmosis treatment plant and for new groundwater wells. Sewer Master Plan Another major project undertaken by your PSD is to provide all properties within our service area with access to the sewer system. Currently, about 20 percent of properties within the PSD do not have access to the sewer system. We believe that both public health and our pristine Island environment demand installation of and connection to the sewer system. The PSD plans to expend about $19.5 million over the next 10 years to install the major sewer mains and lift stations necessary to provide access to the system. However, it is important to remember that the installation of this “backbone” sewer infrastructure does not result in the connection of even a single home to the sewer system. Instead, individual property owners must pay to have their lots connected to the system. Water Distribution System Upgrades Your PSD has completed an array of water line improvements designed to enhance the flow of water throughout the PSD’s distribution system. Your PSD’s water distribution system actually comprises two separate distribution systems. This is the result of the manner in which our service area was developed, and the PSD’s absorption of several smaller utilities. These distribution system improvements involve completing several line connections and loops, and optimizing the size of water lines in several areas. The projects have a positive effect on water quality, as we eliminate “dead-end” lines and improve the movement of water through the system. Customers in several neighborhoods may even notice improved water pressure as a result of these enhancements. Jim Hewitt, Hilton Head PSD Wastewater Services Supervisor, monitors the PSD's Seabrook lift station in Hilton Head Plantation near the County Club of Hilton Head. Chlorine Leak at Front-Gate Well In April of this year, the PSD experienced an extremely rare and unfortunate event – the leaking of chlorine gas from a spare chlorine tank at our FrontGate Well, located near the front entrance of Hilton Head Plantation. The leak was the result of a hole the size of a ballpoint pen tip in the bottom of the spare tank, caused by corrosion. The PSD purchases chlorine tanks from a Savannah vendor, which delivers the tanks directly to our well sites. We use chlorine gas to disinfect groundwater at our well sites. This method of disinfection is safe, effective, and used around the world. Nonetheless, the event has prompted us to explore the possibility of using alternative methods of disinfection, including the use of liquid chlorine. We also have begun inspecting each tank at the time of its delivery to our well sites. No one was harmed as a result of the leak. The PSD is thankful for the quick and comprehensive response of the Town of Hilton Head Island Fire and Rescue Division, the Southern Beaufort County Hazardous Materials team, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and your Hilton Head Plantation Security team. The PSD shares these agencies’ concern for public health and safety and is grateful for having such partners in the community. PSD-Clemson Partnership Going Strong Your Hilton Head PSD and the Clemson Extension Service have teamed up to bring the Carolina Yards & Neighborhoods program to Hilton Head Island. Carolina Yards & Neighborhoods teaches participants the environmentally friendly way to care for their Lowcountry yards and gardens. It is free and open to the public. This program runs through October, with workshops taking place at 11 AM on the last Friday of each month, in your PSD’s Community Room at 21 Oak Park Drive, off Mathews Drive. Teri Hale, Clemson’s Horticulture Agent for Beaufort County, presents the Carolina Yards & Neighborhoods program. The program comprises a series of principles that homeowners can use to care for and beautify their yards and gardens – while at the same time helping to preserve the pristine Lowcountry environment. The schedule of workshops includes: • July 29 – Fertilize Appropriately & Control Yard Pests Responsibly • August 26 – Mulch and Recycle • September 30 – Attract Wildlife • October 28 – Reduce Stormwater Runoff & Protect the Waterfront Our Customer Service Center, at 21 Oak Park Drive off Mathews Drive, is open from 8 to 5, Monday through Friday. Our telephone number is (843) 681-5525. You also can email us your questions and comments at [email protected]. We look forward to continuing to provide you with the high quality service we all demand and deserve from your Hilton Head PSD. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Page 12 – July 2005 HHP Clubs Bridge Winners________ Yoga with Ruth________ Farmers Club__________ Informal Bridge Since 1986, Ruth Palmer varies the weekly Yoga exercises and positions to address the group’s needs. Yoga is a relaxing, energizing & strengthening program, including gentle stretches and positions to help people survive with their pain. After a pretty nice June, July is hitting us with a real dose of Lowcountry summer. Just be thankful we garden on the coast where we usually have a breeze at some time every day. This month is the time to water deeply but not too frequently the plants we have left. We want them to put their roots down deep where there is some moisture in the ground. Mulch is a good idea, too; and I have not found there to be any weed content of concern in our available pile at the farm. There is much more nutgrass in the paths and outside my plot than there is inside on the areas I have mulched with it, so I plan to use much more in the future as it builds better soil. Mulch also protects roots from extreme heat and helps hold moisture. It has been said that it also provides a place for predator insects to live, and I’m all for the ‘good guys’ in the garden. June Winners 1. Helen Allen 2. Teddy Peters 3. Norm Wolff PH – 4th Tuesday – 7:15 PM. Call Freddie/Syd Hodges - 689-6142. PH Dinner Bridge June Winners 1. Norm Wolff 2. Jack Cavagnaro 3. May Lou Fehrman 4. Penny Bailey PH – 1st Tuesday – 6:00 PM. Call Gloria Campeau – 681-6647 or Billie Hodges – 681-5906. Slammers June Winners 1. Shirley Beinbrink 2. Norm Wolff 3. Billie Hodges PH – 2nd Wednesday – 7:00 PM. Call Rick Perrini – 689-5025. SL Ladies Bridge June 7th Winners 1. Lil Romano 2. Char Folk 3. Fran Anderson 4. Flo Thompson June 21st Winners 1. Gloria Campeau 2. Hogan Downes 3. Fran Anderson 3. Delores Kanski SL – 1st & 3rd Tuesday – 10 AM. Call Fran Anderson – 681-2554. Farmers Market Saturday mornings 9 to 11 AM At Seabrook Farm Days: Time Place: Thursdays 9:00 – 10:30 AM DH until 8/4, PH 8/11 on Big Wheels Club_______ The Big Wheels Bicycle Club is a wonderful way to get out in the fresh air, get some exercise, and socialize with friends. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Thursday every month. The 1st Thursday we bike to Dolphin Head, bringing a brown bag lunch, meeting at 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM. At that time, we decide what restaurant we will meet for the 3rd Thursday. Contact Joan Henry at 689-5649 or Kathleen Krizner at 681-2929. Woodcarvers__________ Woodcarvers have many projects in the works – birds, figures, basrelief, etc. Come spend some time with us. Experience is not a factor; we learn from one another. Days/Time: Mondays @ 7:15 PM Place: Spring Lake Pavilion Contact Jim Gorddard at 689-3273 Happy Times Society____ The Happy Times Society is a social group for all HHP residents. Happy Times Society meets each month at Dolphin Head for refreshments. Date: 4th Sunday of the month Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM Place: Dolphin Head Please bring a hors d’oeuvre for eight and your own utensils, plates, cups, napkins & beverage. Do be on the lookout for heavy infestations of beetles and grasshoppers that can do a lot of damage. It is good if you can hand pick these into a container of water with a little Clorox mixed in, or just crush them if you’re brave. Still looking good is okra, field peas and some tomatoes. Peanuts and sweet potatoes are easy to grow, and I may try them next year if I have enough space. The perennial flowers and summer annuals keep out plots colorful and our vases filled. Be sure to feed them as needed. If zinnias get rust, yank them out and sprinkle new seeds. You can continue to plant them until frost. There are some new varieties out there worth growing. Please, please keep your weeds pulled and plots tidy. If you need help, call Dennis Snyder at 6822472, and he will send someone to till your plot for a fee that will benefit the Club. -- Diane Middleton Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation HHP Clubs July 2005 – Page 13 Fishing Club___________ As you are aware, there will be no Fishing Club meeting in July or August. The Board will continue to meet. The next dinner meeting will be in September. As this was being written (back in mid-June), the Island Packet published a photograph of a smiling fisherman with a fish he had just caught in Jarvis Park Lake. The fisherman had declared his fish a “keeper” and was adding it to the “mess of fish” he and some friends were gathering for a fish fry. The fish could not have been more than five inches long. How long will Jarvis Lake be a recreational site for fishing if a “mess of fish” of this size is removed with any frequency? Unfortunately, this sort of thing does occur in our own lagoons as well. The vast majority of people fishing our lagoons understands how damaging indiscriminate removal of fish can be and practices catch and release. Some people do not, however, and have the capability of destroying our lagoons as a source of pleasure for the sport fishermen in the Plantation. We were fly fishing in Seabrook Lagoon and had a good-sized largemouth hit a popping plug. After a good fight, the fish headed for cover at the bank and found it, in the form of a large plastic bag. The added resistance of the bag was enough to snap the tippet and the fish and plastic moved off into the lagoon. Fortunately, the fish was able to extricate itself from the bag, which easily could have killed it. Why do people discard plastic, cans, bottles, and other debris into our lagoons? These bass are strange creatures. Last year, the lure of choice was a purple or red worm. This year, the bass ignore worms of any color. Earlier this year, a soft plastic minnow did the trick. The fish now seem to have tired of minnows but are aggressive in going after crayfish. The answer is, you have to have a variety of lures at your disposal and try them all. Studies have shown that bass can distinguish colors. For casting baits, their preference is, in order, red, white, silver, and black. For fly-rod lures, the preferred color is yellow, followed by white in combination with any other color, and brown, also combined with other colors. Ever wonder how old that fish was you just caught? A largemouth bass will grow to two to four inches in its first year, to five to seven inches in its second year, and to eight to eleven inches in its third year. By the time it reaches eighteen or nineteen inches, it will usually be seven or eight years old. A lot depends on food supply and the length of the growing season. If you are interested in the Club or any of its activities, give Richard Austin a call at 689-6841. For questions about fishing our lagoons, the one to call is Gary Turner at 342-3254. -- Earle Nirmaier Tennis Social Club______ A large group of members turned out for the Breakfast Tennis Social on June 18th. Players enjoyed fresh fruit, homemade pastries and bagels. The next social will be July 16th from 8:30 – 10:30 AM, followed by an Ice Cream Social – a big favorite last summer. There will not be a tennis round robin in August, since so many people are away. While you’re experiencing the heat of the summer, think about a cool party in December that you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars now for the Spring Lake Christmas Party, December 3rd at the Country Club of Hilton Head. Welcome to our new members: Judy and Tom Larkins. -- Sally Price HHP Women’s Club_____ The Hilton Head Plantation Women's Club (HHPWC) will begin the 2005-2006 season with a Salad Luncheon on August 9 at 11:30 AM in the Plantation House. Reservations, limited to 130, may be made by email at [email protected] or by calling Judy Sturm at 689-3214 or Theresa Schneider at 689-5272. Please give both your first and last name when you respond. If for some reason you are unable to join us, please cancel your reservation so that someone on the waiting list may attend. Members whose surnames begin with A-L will bring salads and M-Z will provide precut desserts. Please mark your dishes with an address label and remember serving utensils. Prior to the luncheon, sign-up sheets will be provided for HHPWC members to join Book and Bridge groups as well as Island Hoppers, Green Thumbers, Out-To-Lunch Bunch, and Culinary Cut-Ups. There will also be sign-up sheets for Mah Jongg and Bridge lessons. Activity fees must be paid at this time. You must be a current paid member of the HHPWC in order to be a member of the activity groups. HHPWC Directories for 2005-2006 will be available at the meeting. If you have not already done so, please plan to join the HHPWC, which meets the second Tuesday of each month from August to May except for November 2005 when the meeting will be held Tuesday, November 1. Membership is open to women residents and property owners of Hilton Head Plantation. Send a $10 check payable to HHP Women's Club to Judy Sturm at 40 Cypress Marsh Drive, HHI SC 29926. Include your address, spouse's name, email address, and phone number with the check. -- Anne Cohick Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Page 14 – July 2005 HHP Clubs Craft Workshop________ Curtain Calls___________ Yacht Club____________ The Date: Sat, October 15 The Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM The Place: Christ Lutheran Church, 829 William Hilton Parkway The Event: Annual Show & Sale The Reason for you to be there: Beautiful, handmade gifts, not only for Christmas, but for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, hostess, and, especially, exquisite gifts to buy for yourself. Curtain Calls, an informal entertainment group, was created for stage readings of plays from the classics to offbeat Broadway shows. We meet at 5:30 on the third Sunday evening of the month, September through May at the Plantation House. The HHP Yacht Club continues with a full slate of summer events. Members – if you haven’t put one or more of these events on your schedule, you are missing out on a great time and even better camaraderie!! Please check the club website, www.hhpyc.org, for the latest events, sign up sheets, and Club news and photos. After writing this column for more than five years, it is sometimes difficult to come up with a new way to capture the reader’s interest about a repetitive event. Those of you who have been to our sales and know the value, diversity & quality of our items, have already marked the date on your calendar and, hopefully, will be able to be there. A SPECIAL INVITATION IS EXTENDED TO EVERYONE WHO HAS YET TO ATTEND ONE OF OUR SALES. One of the comments most frequently heard is, “This is more than a craft sale - this is like coming to a beautiful boutique shop.” The variety of items is limitless. And, you never have to worry about your gift being a duplicate of something your “giftee” already has. TO BRIDGE PLAYERS ESPECIALLY… How many of you have sat at a table where the bridge tallies had gorgeous quilled designs? You will find them at the Annual Show and Sale. Jane Alvarez, our multitalented member, fills orders all year round. BE SURE TO JOIN US. MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW – October 15th from 9 AM to 2 PM. -- Charlotte Ward Membership falls into three categories that may shift during the year: 1) Actors – those interested in reading. Enthusiasm and good voice projection are more important than experience. 2) Producers – those willing to produce a play, which includes selecting the play, the actors, and the director. 3) Audience – those who want to enjoy the product. What good is a play without an audience? Since we must pay royalties on some plays, we charge annual dues of $5 per person to cover the cost. We also collect $1 per person at each performance for table supplies and soft drinks. The place for a good time is a meeting of Curtain Calls. We hope you will join us when the fall season begins on September 18th at 5:30 PM. For further information, call Ginny Heidrich at 681-9534. -- Grace Nealy Cheers by the Sound_____ Come greet dear friends and make new ones at Dolphin Head Recreation Area. Bring a hors d’oeuvre for eight, a serving utensil, your favorite beverage, paper plates, cups, and napkins. Rubber Stamping Club___ Planning for our first meeting is in the works to create “works of art” and share stamping techniques and innovative ideas. If interested, and we hope you are, please call Gail Phillips at 681-8262 or 422-2042. -- Gail Phillips Day: 4th Tuesday of the Month Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM Place: Dolphin Head Adults ONLY. No reservations – just show up. For information, call Margita Rockstroh 682-3171 or Marma Kuczkowski at 689-3399. The Savannah Yacht Club on the Wilmington River was the destination for 15 boats with some 35 boaters on May 25th. A wonderful luncheon and some great boating were the reward for all participants! Approximately 15 power and sailboats, with close to 100 people on board, turned out for the Annual Blessing of the Fleet on June 4th. Boats gathered in Port Royal Sound, then paraded in single file down Skull Creek. In front of the Seabrook Landing dock, each boat received a blessing for “fair winds and calm seas”…appropriate for the start of the hurricane season! The afternoon saw approximately 100 members and guests gather for an incredible pig roast with all the trimmings. The Annual Baypoint Picnic on July 14th drew 20 power and sailboats with 55 members and guests for a picnic on the beach. The calm waters and sandy beach provided a great place for picnicking, swimming and just plain loafing! Don’t forget the ever-popular Dockside Luncheon at the Dockside Restaurant on August 18th. Sign-up sheets are available on the website. Our next regular meeting will be on September 15th, at 6 PM, featuring a Jimmy Buffet Party. For membership information, contact Nancy Correll at 642-3755. -- Ron Li Farmers Market Saturday mornings - 9 to 11 AM At Seabrook Farm Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Hilton Head Plantation 2005 Hurricane Evacuation Information Hilton Head Plantation 2005 Hurricane Evacuation Information Every Hilton Head Plantation resident should understand and be prepared for an evacuation during the hurricane season. The purpose of this brochure is to assist you before, during, and after an evacuation. Please keep this brochure with you during an evacuation. What to do Now… Prepare your Evacuation Plan. Be certain you have adequate insurance on your home and its contents. This should include Flood Insurance from the federal government through your home insurance carrier. Flood Insurance has a 30-day implementation delay. Photograph or videotape your home and its contents for Insurance purposes. Make copies of family and personal records. When a Hurricane Watch is Issued… Know the Difference… • • • • Hurricane Watch – Hurricane is possible within 36 hours. Hurricane Warning – Hurricane is expected within 24 hours. Voluntary Evacuation – Evacuation is recommended but not required. The Cypress Gate is open to traffic. Mandatory Evacuation – The Governor has ordered an evacuation. The Cypress Gate is closed by order of Beaufort County Emergency Management (BCEM). Until the Governor rescinds Mandatory Evacuation: • Re-entry onto Hilton Head Island is prohibited. • Re-entry into Hilton Head Plantation is prohibited. • All emergency services (ambulance and fire) cease. • 911 will not be answered. Storm Categories… Category MPH Winds Storm Surge 1 2 3 4 5 74 – 95 96 – 110 111 – 130 131 – 155 > 155 4 – 5 feet 6 – 8 feet 9 – 12 feet 13 – 18 feet > 18 feet Weather Web Sites… http://www.co.beaufort.SC.US/Emerg_mgt/ http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ http://www.disastersrus.org/ http://WCHS.CSC.noaa.gov/ Hilton Head Plantation Stay tuned to a local radio or television station for the latest National Weather Service advisories and for special instructions from local and state governments. Check your battery-powered equipment. Your battery-operated radio could be your only source of information, and flashlights will be needed if utility services are interrupted. Buy extra batteries. Keep your car’s gas tank full. Service stations may become inoperable once the storm strikes. Store drinking water in clean bathtubs or in jugs and bottles. The water system may become contaminated or damaged by the storm. Obtain extra prescription medications and medical supplies. During this time, you MAY install ARB-approved Hurricane shutters and board up windows and doors. Windows are broken mainly from wind-driven debris. Wind pressure may break large windows, garage doors and double entry doors. Taping windows does NOT keep the glass from breaking; it merely confines the broken glass. Secure outdoor objects that might become debris. Garbage cans, garden tools, toys, signs, porch furniture, and a number of other harmless items become deadly missiles in hurricane winds. Moor your boat securely well in advance of the storm, or move it early to a designated safe area. Do NOT stay on your boat. LEAVE EARLY. We are a low-lying beach area that may be swept by high tides or storm waves. When a voluntary evacuation is recommended, leave the Plantation quickly with a specific plan and a set destination. When a mandatory evacuation is ordered, the Cypress Gate will be closed. At that time, you must exit by the Main Gate and go right onto 278 West with three lanes going over the bridge. The far left lane will turn onto Route 46 to I95. At this point, expect lengthy delays. Your best bet is to leave during the voluntary phase. If the BCEM advises evacuation of your area, DO SO IMMEDIATELY. Keep your car radio on and listen for further instructions, such as the location of emergency shelters. 2005 Hurricane Evacuation Information BE AWARE that some areas may flood long before the storm arrives. Evacuation is complicated by the fact that the Hilton Head Island area is densely populated and may require evacuation orders to be issued earlier than one day before the storm's arrival. Don't get caught by the hurricane in your car on an open coastal road. Because tornadoes are often spawned by hurricanes, be alert for tornado watches and warnings. In case of a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately in an interior bathroom or small hall, preferably below ground level. Learn the local evacuation routes. Trim dead wood from trees around your house. Check for loose rain gutters and down spouts. Listen for weather updates and local information on these stations: 98.3 FM WGCO 98.7 FM WYKZ 106.9 FM WWVV 107.9 FM WLOW Prepare evacuation supplies. What To Pack… Prepare to be gone at least 48 hours. Cash and Credit Cards I.D. and Drivers License Insurance policy, Name of Agent, and Telephone Number Inventory of Household Contents Copies of Family & Personal Records Road maps & alternative routes to destination Cell Phone Change of clothing for at least two days Protective clothing & sturdy shoes Prescription medicines & supplies First Aid Kit Bottled water and canned beverages Non-perishable food Can opener Flashlight and extra batteries Portable radio and extra batteries Blankets When a Hurricane Warning is Issued… Move outdoor objects, such as porch furniture, grill, garbage cans, hanging plants, etc. into the garage or house. Store drinking water in clean containers and fill bathtubs with water should the water supply be contaminated. Park extra vehicles in the garage. Leave a message on your answering machine so that relatives and friends will know when you left and where you are going. Know your answering machine codes so that you can retrieve messages and change the recording. Hilton Head Plantation If you have a pool, cover the pump filter. If told to do so, shut off your water, electricity, and gas. Lock doors and windows before you leave. Complete and drop off the HHP Evacuation Checkout Form at the gate as you leave. A driveby drop box will be in place at the gates. Arrange for family members who need extra assistance. Contact Med Trans, 21 Dillon Road, at 342-3444, or in extreme cases, Beaufort County Dispatch at 341-4720. Your Pets… Do NOT leave pets behind. Take them with you. • Make arrangements with off-Island friends or hotel reservations where pets are permitted. • Make certain pets are wearing collars with current ID. Use adhesive tape and an indelible pen if the ID is not current, and tape the information to the pet’s collar. • Pack a pet disaster kit in advance, containing: Pet food Food and water bowls Medications Medical Records Motion sickness pills for travel Sturdy leashes and/or pet carrier Current photo in the event of loss Pet bed and toys if space is available • For birds, reptiles, and small animals, check with your veterinarian. During the Hurricane… If you stay, government officials, emergency responders, and aide agencies cannot and will not do everything for you. You must take responsibility for yourself and your family by being properly prepared ahead of time. Any residents who stay should expect to be without power, phone, and water for a week or more. • TAKE COVER – Remain indoors during the hurricane. Blowing debris can injure and kill. Travel is extremely dangerous. • STORM SURGE – Storm surge is a great dome of water, which sweeps across the coastline near where the hurricane makes landfall. The surge, aided by breaking waves, sweeps everything in its path. This is the most dangerous part of the hurricane. • FLOODS – Floods brought by the torrential rains of a hurricane are dangerous. Even though hurricanes weaken rapidly as they move inland, the storm can bring 6-12 inches of rain. • WINDS – For some structures, wind force is sufficient to cause destruction. The greatest threat from hurricane winds is the debris – a deadly barrage of flying missiles such as lawn furniture, signs, roofing, trees, siding, etc. 2005 Hurricane Evacuation Information Re-Entry Information… To obtain current information on storm damage, road conditions, and re-entry instructions, call: HHPPOA Beaufort County EMS Hurricane Re-entry # 843/681-8800, Ext 5 843/341-4600 877/264-5267 If telephone lines are constantly busy, you can check these websites for updated local information: Hilton Head Plantation POA: www.hiltonheadplantation.com Beaufort County EMS: www.co.beaufort.SC.US/Emerg_mgt After the Hurricane… In case of a major disaster, the Architectural Review Board has adopted procedures to expedite project review and approval, thus facilitating tree removals, repairs and rebuilding while maintaining our general standards and guidelines. As always, the ARB and staff intend to work closely and cooperatively with each landowner to restore our safe and secure living environment. • No approval is required to remove trees that are uprooted, trees that have fallen across structures, or trees that have fallen on the ground. • Upon receipt of a written Application stating “No Changes”, staff will issue a permit to repair damage to a structure that restores it to the previously existing condition. Please complete the appropriate form, which will be available on our Website, or come to the ARB Office for forms and instructions. No fee is required. • ARB approval is required for minor changes or modifications from previously existing conditions (such as window/door changes). Submit plans to the ARB Office. • Staff approval is required for repainting or re-roofing your house with the same color (if acceptable). Submit repainting or re-roofing form. Available in the ARB Office or on our website. • ARB approval is required for rebuilding with proposed exterior changes and/or additions or changes required by current applicable building codes, ordinances, rules, regulations or guidelines. All applicable ARB review procedures apply. A fee of fifty (50%) of the current ARB fees will apply. • ARB meetings schedule: Depending on damage sustained, the Board may increase the normal meeting schedule for a period of time to be specified on the POA’s Website. No applications for new construction will be reviewed until applications for damaged homes have been processed. • HHP has copies of many HHP house plans on CD ROMs. These CDs will be transported offsite in the event of a hurricane evacuation. If you have house plans, it is recommended that you bring a hard copy Hilton Head Plantation of the plans with you during an evacuation or render the plans to a CD ROM so they can be easily transported and protected from the weather. • All rebuilding approvals will be subject to the Town of Hilton Head Island’s permitting process. The Town will inspect all severely damaged properties and issue a status card depending on their damage assessment. Structures damaged in excess of 50% will have to rebuild to the current Town building codes, including flood elevation and structural reinforcements. • When “Design Reviews” are required, the ARB quorum may be reduced from four (4) to two (2) voting members. Temporary Housing Guidelines… HHP wants to expedite the repair and reconstruction of damaged housing caused by a disaster. Residents are urged to acquaint themselves with the temporary housing market in the area, such as condos, motels or time-shares. Review your insurance to ensure you have adequate coverage for alternate living expenses. In the event of a major disaster that includes the devastation of homes, the use of temporary housing on the property may be permitted for a period of six months. The Board may extend this period when a special need is demonstrated. Temporary housing must comply with the following guidelines: • The use of temporary housing is limited to permanent residents who are rebuilding or repairing an existing home. • Temporary housing is defined as travel trailers and motor homes. • The temporary housing must be located entirely on the property owned by the resident. Debris Removal Guidelines… Following a major storm, a significant amount of landscape debris is strewn about our properties. It is the responsibility of each Property Owner to clear his/her property and bring the debris to a designated HHP disposal site. HHP or its designated contractor will remove the landscape debris from road right of way for disposal. Structural debris removal must be contracted on an individual basis by each landowner. The following guidelines apply for landscape debris removal: • Place the debris in piles along the roadside. Keep it off the paved surface. • Do not pile debris over water meters or fire hydrants. Must be segregated by form. 2005 Hurricane Evacuation Information Recreation Activities July 2005 – Page 19 Music & Sunset HHP’s July concert Back by popular demand… The Headliners …with your favorite music from the 50s, 60s & 70s. Date: Wednesday, July 27 Rain Date: Sunday, July 31st Time: 7:00 to 9:00 PM Place: PH Parking Lot Pizza, Popcorn, Soda & water Will be available for purchase WARM UP YOUR VOCAL CHORDS, AND… Don’t forget to bring your chairs & bug spray! Sign up for POA Activities at the Scheduling Office in the Plantation House. Questions? Call Amanda at 681-8090. Page 20 – July 2005 Recreation Activities HHP’s Health & Fitness Programs Program Instructor Cardio Splash Beverly Perfect Hatha Yoga Gloria Bergeron Total Fitness Beverly Perfect Tai Chi Chuan Molly Carrington Water Aerobics Deep-End Shallow-End Cheryl Kammire Time / Minimum #s Place 2005 Fees 5:30 – 6:30 PM (10 Minimum) SL Pool $5.50 – 1 class $40 – 8 classes $72 – 16 classes Monday 7/11 – 9/26 No class–7/4, 8/22, 9/5 Mon– All Weights Wed– Aerobics/Weights Thurs– Pilates & Yoga Thursday New Session Begins 9/1 Moderate: 6-7 PM Gentle: 7:15-8:15 PM (10 Minimum) PH 5:30-6:30 PM (10 Minimum) SL Pavilion 8:30-10:00 AM (6 Minimum) DH $60 – 6 classes Mon-Wed-Fri Starts August 8 8:15-9:15 AM – Shallow 9:15-10:15 AM - Deep SL Pool $4 – 1 class $39 – 10 classes $68 – 20 classes $87 – 30 classes Date/Days Tuesday & Thursday 8/2 – 9/22 Deep-End / Shallow-End Water Aerobics Shallow-End Aerobics is an enthusiastic fullbody cardio workout. The class will use water weights to help build muscular endurance and pool noodles to strengthen your core exercises. Deep-End Aerobics will be a non-impact aquatic class with water resistance for overall conditioning using vertical positioning. Jogging and specific exercises will strengthen the back and abdominal muscles for a total body workout. Days: Begins August 8, Mon – Wed – Fri Time: Shallow End Aerobics – 8:15 - 9:15 AM Deep End Aerobics – 9:15 - 10:15 AM Place: Spring Lake Pool Cost: $4 – 1 Class $39 – 10 Classes $68 – 20 Classes $87 – 30 Classes A minimum of 12 people is required per class. All participants must bring a pool noodle. Water belts would be helpful for deep-end aerobics. $5.50 – 1 class $50 – 10 classes $80 – 20 classes Evening Cardio Splash____ Would you like to stop on your way home from a hard day at work and get an energizing, evening workout at Spring Lake Pool? Join us for these high-energy, aerobic workout classes. We will be movin’ and groovin’ in the water for 40 minutes. Then, we will tone our muscles for 20 minutes using water weights. Minimum 10 participants. Session: Aug 2 – Sept 22 (16 classes) Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 5:30 – 6:30 PM Fee: $5.50 per class (see matrix above) Spring Lake Pool________ The POA has had to close the Spring Lake Pool twice already this summer because fecal matter was found in both the adult and children’s pools. When such incidents occur, the POA must close the pool for 32 hours to conduct the DHEC-prescribed decontamination procedures. Fecal contamination is a serious problem. The elaborate decontamination procedures cost a minimum of $500 per incident and closing the pool represents an inconvenience to all pool users. It is imperative that all pool users do everything possible to prevent these accidents. Be sure your children are potty-trained before using the big pool. With your cooperation, our summer at the pool will be fun and healthy. Sign up for POA Activities at the Scheduling Office in the Plantation House. Questions? Call Amanda at 681-8090. Recreation Activities Arts Center Tickets______ Arts Center tickets are available for the production of “Shear Madness.” Poor Isabel Czerny… the reclusive, once-famous concert pianist has been murdered in the apartment above the Shear Madness unisex hair salon. That she will meet her untimely demise is the only thing certain in this hilarious murder-mystery where the audience decides whodunit. Was it the flamboyant, sharpwitted salon owner, the gum-chewing hairstylist, the snooty socialite or the philandering antiques dealer? The ending of the play is different every night as audience members hear clues, question the characters and solve the crime. Bad hair and bad jokes notwithstanding, this wild and ridiculous farce has become the longest-running play in history of American theater entertaining more than six million people since it opened in Boston 24 years ago. Date: Saturday, August 6 Time: 8:00 PM Price: $26.00 per person Deadline: Wednesday, July 27 Make your check payable to The Arts Center. Your check is your reservation. Only patrons with disabilities will receive seating preferences. There are no exchanges or refunds, and there are limited reservations. Teen/Pre-Teen “Club Night” The Activities Department is hanging out with the guys and girls for an evening extravaganza! Food, dancing, games, prizes, and all the works for a jammin’ night! Challenges between guys and girls are scheduled to rock the Club! So… mark your calendars and tell your friends to join us at the “Club” for an evening of fun and games! Date: Friday, July 22 Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Fee: $5.00 per person Place: Plantation House Deadline: Wednesday, July 20 Age: 12 to 15 yrs. Parents: POA staff will provide supervision. Teens must be picked up no later than 9 PM. July 2005 – Page 21 Assisted vs. Independent Living There are many options if you or a family member becomes ill: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Nursing Homes, Hospice, Home Health, Respite Care, Adult Day Care, Alzheimer’s facilities, and others. With so many choices, it is difficult to know which is the best for yourself or a family member. Yet, the right choice can have a positive impact on the rest of your life. Learn about the various health care options currently available to you and your family. Date: Wednesday, September 7 Time: 1-2:00 PM or 5-6:00 PM Price: FREE Place: Plantation House KIDS KAMP 2005________ You may register your child at the POA Service Center for one or more weeks. Full payment is due at registration. Dates: Week 6: July 18 – July 22 Week 7: July 25 – July 29 Week 8: August 1 – August 5 Time / Days: Registration: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Mon – Fri At the POA Service Center Applications: Age/Grade Requirements: Available at the POA Service Center or on HHP’s website Children who will enter Kindergarten in the Fall 2005 or who will be five years old by November 1, 2005, to children who will enter 8th grade in the Fall 2005. Fees: 1 Child: 2 Children: Registration 3 Children: 4+ Children: Weekly $80. $150. $215. $280. KIDS KAMP Refund Policy The non-refundable deposit is deducted from all refunds, regardless of when the deposit, partial, or full payment occurs. A full refund, less the non-refundable deposit, will be processed within thirty days if the child is withdrawn prior to the start of Kamp. Once Kamp begins, the child’s status as a “Full” session participant will be converted to a “Weekly” status and will no longer be eligible for the Pre-Registration discount fees. The refund will be based on the number of weeks the child attended KIDS KAMP and the current weekly fees at the time of withdrawal. Sign up for POA Activities at the Scheduling Office in the Plantation House. Questions? Call Amanda at 681-8090. Page 22 – July 2005 Feature Article Awards of Excellence at the 2005 Annual Juried Show____ The Hilton Head Plantation Artists' Association continues its tribute to the winners in the May juried show. The Awards of Excellence were awarded to the following people: Jo Dye, Joyce Nagel, Jeffrey Nelson, Pat Tackes, Irene Williamson, and Faye Willis. The artists were asked what inspired them to paint the particular work of art they submitted to the juried show. The answers are varied and very interesting. For anyone interested in joining our group of fellow artists, our meetings will begin in October with the Edible Arts Festival, October 2, 2005. More information will be forthcoming in future articles. AWARD OF EXCELLENCE - Joyce Nagel AWARD OF EXCELLENCE - Jo Dye Jo Dye - Title of Painting "It Isn't Black or White ... Is It?” Joe started with black on one end and white on the other with varying shades of gray in the middle, which is where the truth is, somewhere in the middle. In other words, nothing is totally black and white. AWARD OF EXCELLENCE - Jeffery Nelson Joyce Nagel - Title of Painting "Evening Shore Children" When you walk along the beach just before sunset and see the people on the beach, everyone has their own thoughts, even children. Jeffrey Nelson - Title of Painting "Ouro Preto Street" Jeff found some old slides of his mother's from his parents' trips around the world. Among them were slides of Brazil from the late '50's, early '60's. The slide, which this painting was based on, had great composition and so he decided to do his painting from it. Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation Feature Article July 2005 – Page 23 AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Pat Tackes Pat Tackes - Title of Painting "All Tied Up" AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Irene Williamson Irene Williamson - Title of Painting "Shadow of a Warrior" Irene used materials from other paintings and other materials. As she began to tear them into pieces and put them together, the image of an Indian warrior began to emerge and so he became the focal point of the painting. AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Faye Willis Faye Willis - Title of Painting "Lily Pond" When asked what inspired her to paint "Lily Pond", Faye said she simply loves lily pads and water scenes. Good enough reason! The Hilton Head Plantation Artists Association is a non-profit organization that studies and promotes the visual arts with monthly educational programs, group painting sessions, workshops, and art exhibitions. The Association is open to all Plantation residents who are interested in the visual arts. Members work in a broad variety of media and range from beginners to accomplished professionals. Scheduled meetings generally have a speaker or demonstration concerning a wide variety of art-related topics. The Plantation House serves as a gallery for the artists -- most work hung in the Plantation House is for sale by contacting the artist. Informal opportunities to paint and exchange information with other artists occur every Monday and Tuesday from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM on the second floor of the Plantation House. The Plantation Artists hold an Annual Show in May at the Plantation House. Residents are urged to join and explore their creativity; every artist has to have a place to start and encouragement from other artists certainly helps! Plantation Living, a Newsletter for Residents of Hilton Head Plantation