Back in December Lou Ann and I joined Peter Vankevitch and a couple of dozen other serious birders for a boat trip to Portsmouth Island. The occasion was the annual Christmas Bird Count. As many of our readers know, winter is the best time to visit Portsmouth island, if only because the mosquitoes are gone. Besides that, it was pleasantly warm with bright blue skies.
Lou Ann tells the story so well. You can read about it in our February, 2009 Ocracoke Newsletter.
Enjoy!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Nature
Did you see Venus and the new moon these last several evenings? They are spectacular...and will be so for another few days, while the moon is just a sliver. Look up in the early night sky above the horizon where the sun sets.
If you are on the island be sure to take a stroll on the beach. Yesterday afternoon there were dozens of dolphins frolicking just beyond the breakers, big, dark-skinned adults, and smaller, grayer juveniles. Farther out were cormorants...thousands of cormorants, first in a seemingly endless dark line moving north, then settled on the ocean as one great dark mass of undulating life.
We looked for the seal but didn't see it. We heard that the day before someone (I've forgotten who now) spotted a seal resting up on the beach. It's been a number of years since I've seen a seal on Ocracoke, but they do stop by here every once in a while.
Yesterday was a great day to spend an hour on the beach. Lachlan stripped down to his underwear and ran around barefooted. He even waded into the water...but didn't stay long.
Whether you're on the island or not, take time to enjoy the night sky, the outdoors, and your friends and family. Life is short.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
If you are on the island be sure to take a stroll on the beach. Yesterday afternoon there were dozens of dolphins frolicking just beyond the breakers, big, dark-skinned adults, and smaller, grayer juveniles. Farther out were cormorants...thousands of cormorants, first in a seemingly endless dark line moving north, then settled on the ocean as one great dark mass of undulating life.
We looked for the seal but didn't see it. We heard that the day before someone (I've forgotten who now) spotted a seal resting up on the beach. It's been a number of years since I've seen a seal on Ocracoke, but they do stop by here every once in a while.
Yesterday was a great day to spend an hour on the beach. Lachlan stripped down to his underwear and ran around barefooted. He even waded into the water...but didn't stay long.
Whether you're on the island or not, take time to enjoy the night sky, the outdoors, and your friends and family. Life is short.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Spring?
I guess spring is "just around the corner" as they say. I took this photo yesterday (lying on the ground because I hurt my knee and can't squat -- that's why it's catty-wampus [if you've never heard that term it's probably because you don't live on Ocracoke]).
The tulips are just starting to push through the ground, so it will be a few days before they are gracing my yard. But we are looking forward to temperatures in the high 50s starting today and lasting through the weekend. The only real down side to this time of year is the cedar pollen. I'm not much bothered by it, but there's lots of sneezing in the village right now.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
The tulips are just starting to push through the ground, so it will be a few days before they are gracing my yard. But we are looking forward to temperatures in the high 50s starting today and lasting through the weekend. The only real down side to this time of year is the cedar pollen. I'm not much bothered by it, but there's lots of sneezing in the village right now.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
More Graveyards
The other day, while wandering around old graveyards, Amy and I were reminded of several unusual old Ocracoke names: Bersheba, Napoleon, Sabra, Letha, & Lydie, e.g. We found Arcade Williams' grave. She is the old lady (born 1844) who told Walter Howard, when he was a young boy, the colorful stories of the wrecks of the Home (1837) and the Black Squall (1861).
And we found Rob Hanks' grave. In the 1950s he would "tell you the story of Ocracoke" for a dime. When I pointed the grave out to Amy, she said, "Why do you call him Rob Hanks? His marker says his name is Robert Dozier Tolson." Well, they called him Rob because his first name was Robert, and then they added Hanks because his father's name was Benjamin Henry (Hank) Tolson, I guess to distinguish him from any other Rob. I wondered if this was a common practice in other communities, or if it was peculiar to Ocracoke and the Outer Banks. If any of our readers know of this custom elsewhere please let us know.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
And we found Rob Hanks' grave. In the 1950s he would "tell you the story of Ocracoke" for a dime. When I pointed the grave out to Amy, she said, "Why do you call him Rob Hanks? His marker says his name is Robert Dozier Tolson." Well, they called him Rob because his first name was Robert, and then they added Hanks because his father's name was Benjamin Henry (Hank) Tolson, I guess to distinguish him from any other Rob. I wondered if this was a common practice in other communities, or if it was peculiar to Ocracoke and the Outer Banks. If any of our readers know of this custom elsewhere please let us know.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Graveyards
A couple of days ago Amy and I decided to take our afternoon walk around the village. We made a point of visiting a number of older cemeteries located down small footpaths and behind people's houses. We saw the graves of Abner Bennett Howard (early island businessman, and postmaster) and his brother, Enoch Ellis Howard (keeper of the Ocracoke lighthouse from 1862 until his death in 1897). Enoch Ellis' son William Ellis (Mr. Billy) Howard is buried nearby along with his wife Fanny Wahab Howard (she's the woman who kept her casket in her parlor for seven years). They had eight children. Four of them died between 1885 and 1899; the youngest 3 days old, the oldest 2 1/2 years old. The epitaphs speak to their parents' heartbreak:
Cordelia (12/2/1883-7/31/1885)
Irene (1/7/1889-9/26/1889)
Cordelia (12/2/1883-7/31/1885)
A bud from Heaven to earth was sent.
We thought twas given, twas only lent.
That these dear cold death has risen,
That bud on earth now blooms in heaven.
We thought twas given, twas only lent.
That these dear cold death has risen,
That bud on earth now blooms in heaven.
Irene (1/7/1889-9/26/1889)
Lone is the house and sad the hour,
Since thy sweet smile is gone.
But unto brighter home than ours,
In heaven is now thine own.
Since thy sweet smile is gone.
But unto brighter home than ours,
In heaven is now thine own.
William Jasper (9/26/1895-9/30/1895)
This little rose so young, so fair,
Called hence by yearly doom,
Just came to show how sweet a flower
In Paradise could bloom.
Called hence by yearly doom,
Just came to show how sweet a flower
In Paradise could bloom.
Inez (10/24/1898-9/10/1899)
Ere sin could blight or sorrow fade,
Death timely came with Holy care.
The opening bud to heaven conveyed,
And bade it bloom forever there.
Death timely came with Holy care.
The opening bud to heaven conveyed,
And bade it bloom forever there.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Dancing
I don't usually do this (and I don't plan on making a habit of this), but today I am providing a link to a site that has nothing to do with Ocracoke. Well, in a really round about way it might. Traditionally Ocracokers have loved to dance (especially the old time island square dance), and Ocracoke is a place to enjoy life. And, there's one more connection. I learned of the following link on a blog called "Joie de Vivre" which is written by a lover of Ocracoke.
This is just a feel-good short video. Enjoy!
And, next time you're out on the beach, maybe you'll want to do a little dance just to express your joy about life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlfKdbWwruY
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
This is just a feel-good short video. Enjoy!
And, next time you're out on the beach, maybe you'll want to do a little dance just to express your joy about life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlfKdbWwruY
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Friday, February 20, 2009
George W. Truitt, Jr./ Ocracoke Fish House
On February 20, 1928 the four-masted schooner, George W. Truitt, Jr, carrying over 600,000 feet of lumber, en route from South Carolina to New York City, encountered a 40 mph gale off Cape Hatteras and ran aground at Ocracoke. The captain and all seven crew members were rescued by breeches buoy, "saved by the heroic efforts of the coast guardsmen from Ocracoke, Hatteras Inlet and Creed's Hill stations" as Captain H.D. Goodwin of the Fort Macon Station expressed it.
Today the sky is clear and the wind only about 10 mph, with temperatures expected in the low to mid 40s by midday. Coastal schooners are a thing of the past, and shipwrecks thankfully infrequent. But water and weather continue to shape life on Ocracoke and the Outer Banks. As I write major renovations are being done on Ocracoke's fish house, thanks to the efforts of many local individuals and a major grant from the Golden Leaf Foundation. You can read more on the UNCTW web site: http://www.unctv.org/ncnow/ncrising/ocracoke.html
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Today the sky is clear and the wind only about 10 mph, with temperatures expected in the low to mid 40s by midday. Coastal schooners are a thing of the past, and shipwrecks thankfully infrequent. But water and weather continue to shape life on Ocracoke and the Outer Banks. As I write major renovations are being done on Ocracoke's fish house, thanks to the efforts of many local individuals and a major grant from the Golden Leaf Foundation. You can read more on the UNCTW web site: http://www.unctv.org/ncnow/ncrising/ocracoke.html
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Stormy Weather
Ocracoke didn't get devastating tornadoes, high winds, or damaging lightning strikes yesterday evening and night (like in Georgia), but we heard the thunder roaring through and the rain pelting the roof. This morning there are puddles in the roads, but temperatures have moderated (it's nearly 60 degrees as I write), and patches of blue sky are poking through the clouds (bright sunlight is streaming through my window at this moment). It looks like it will be a great day to be outdoors.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
A Quiet Ocean
I haven't been to the beach today. It's cold, rainy, and dark outside. But I went yesterday and the day before. Every time I go to the beach it's different. Sometimes the waves are huge, worked up by strong winds, and crashing against the sand. Sometimes plumes of spray blow off the tops of breakers and catch the sunlight, forming momentary patches of colorful rainbows.
The last two days have been different. The ocean looked more like Pamlico Sound. Tiny waves gently slapped against the sand, and only one row of miniature breakers ran parallel with the shore line. Beyond, the ocean undulated slowly. There were no signs of turmoil off shore. And no signs of dolphins. I have no idea where they all went.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
The last two days have been different. The ocean looked more like Pamlico Sound. Tiny waves gently slapped against the sand, and only one row of miniature breakers ran parallel with the shore line. Beyond, the ocean undulated slowly. There were no signs of turmoil off shore. And no signs of dolphins. I have no idea where they all went.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
On This Date...
...in 1841 the schooner Lambert Tree wrecked at Ocracoke. In 1885, after the US Life Saving Station was established on the island, the schooner A.F. Crockett "run on beach" and "sunk," according to the official report. The master of the vessel, R.H. Thorndike, wrote the following letter of thanks:
"Gentlemen: It is quite impossible for me to express in words thanks which are due to each one of you for your noble self-sacrificing efforts to rescue myself and crew of schooner A.F. Crockett, so lately stranded at Ocracoke, on the Hatteras coast, and for your kind protection subsequent thereto. The close attention to duty, the bravery and kindness of Captain Howard and his men, are deserving of great credit."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
"Gentlemen: It is quite impossible for me to express in words thanks which are due to each one of you for your noble self-sacrificing efforts to rescue myself and crew of schooner A.F. Crockett, so lately stranded at Ocracoke, on the Hatteras coast, and for your kind protection subsequent thereto. The close attention to duty, the bravery and kindness of Captain Howard and his men, are deserving of great credit."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Presidents Day
A few visitors were enjoying the island this weekend. Amy and I noticed quite a few out of state cars on Saturday as we walked through the village. In the winter it's unusual to see vehicles without priority stickers on their windshields (they are the small square decals that allow residents priority loading on the Hatteras Inlet ferries). Then we remembered that this was a long weekend.
Most of the visitors will be gone by mid-afternoon today, leaving us to enjoy a few more weeks of isolation and quiet before the beginning of a new season in the spring.
Happy Presidents Day to all of our faithful readers!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Most of the visitors will be gone by mid-afternoon today, leaving us to enjoy a few more weeks of isolation and quiet before the beginning of a new season in the spring.
Happy Presidents Day to all of our faithful readers!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
A Quiet Day
Summer visitors to Ocracoke often ask what we "do all winter." Those of us who live here laugh and joke about this question as we try to juggle wintertime demands on our time. Although activities in the off-season can be highly rewarding (music get-togethers, parties, pot luck dinners, time with family & friends, card games, and the like) they sometimes conflict, and can take time and energy. There are other demands on time as well -- community meetings, water-related activities like scalloping & oystering, home repair, business chores, etc.
For several weeks I've been engaged on and off with chimney demolition and the resulting carpentry project at Village Craftsmen, interspersed with tax preparations, catching up on correspondence, writing, etc. I didn't realize how worn out I was...until I fell asleep right after dinner last night, and didn't wake up until this morning. So I decided to take it easy today. Other than a bike ride to the post office and the store I've spent most of the day reading and working a couple of crossword puzzles. It has been a welcome change.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
For several weeks I've been engaged on and off with chimney demolition and the resulting carpentry project at Village Craftsmen, interspersed with tax preparations, catching up on correspondence, writing, etc. I didn't realize how worn out I was...until I fell asleep right after dinner last night, and didn't wake up until this morning. So I decided to take it easy today. Other than a bike ride to the post office and the store I've spent most of the day reading and working a couple of crossword puzzles. It has been a welcome change.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Valentie's Day
We here at Village Craftsmen wish all of our readers a Happy Valentine's Day!
I sent my four grandchildren homemade valentine cards (just a red heart cut out of poster board, with a simple valentine's wish -- I made my own because by the time I looked for cards locally there wasn't much of a selection). I haven't spoken with the three children from the mountains yet, but Lachlan got his a couple of days ago. He was delighted. He came running up to me waving the card and telling me "You're my Valentine!" Sometimes I forget how important it is for children to receive real mail. Email is OK, but a genuine card or letter in an envelope, with a real stamp and your very own name written on it, that you pull out of your mailbox...that's a treat for a young-un! (Psst: Grownups like real letters, too.)
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
I sent my four grandchildren homemade valentine cards (just a red heart cut out of poster board, with a simple valentine's wish -- I made my own because by the time I looked for cards locally there wasn't much of a selection). I haven't spoken with the three children from the mountains yet, but Lachlan got his a couple of days ago. He was delighted. He came running up to me waving the card and telling me "You're my Valentine!" Sometimes I forget how important it is for children to receive real mail. Email is OK, but a genuine card or letter in an envelope, with a real stamp and your very own name written on it, that you pull out of your mailbox...that's a treat for a young-un! (Psst: Grownups like real letters, too.)
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Pickin' & Grinnin'
I received an email from banjo-playin' Leonard yesterday afternoon. Friday night music at the Community Store is back. James and Susan (the store owners) had requested a short respite from the jam sessions because they just welcomed a new addition to their family three weeks ago, and they didn't want to stay at the store so late.
But starting again this Friday night, at 6 pm now ("so we can clear out of there at a decent hour to let the baby get some sleep"), we'll be gathering around the pot bellied stove for more pickin' & grinnin.' Come on out to the Community Store for a fun evening of free wintertime entertainment.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
But starting again this Friday night, at 6 pm now ("so we can clear out of there at a decent hour to let the baby get some sleep"), we'll be gathering around the pot bellied stove for more pickin' & grinnin.' Come on out to the Community Store for a fun evening of free wintertime entertainment.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Island Humor
Native islanders love to tease; and they especially enjoy calling attention to each other's minor foibles. Last week I needed a few empty boxes so decided to stop by the ABC store (they usually have a dozen or so stacked on the porch by the hardware store). As I was pulling into the nearly empty parking lot I spotted my space right next to the water company pickup truck. David & Earl were getting into the truck and I knew I had just enough time to scoot behind them before they backed out.
When I opened my door I noticed Earl and David in convulsions of laughter. Earl rolled down his window. Between guffaws he informed me that David had just nodded toward my car and asked, "Who's that ------- idiot?" Then they both erupted in more unrestrained laughter. "Why, it's Philip Howard!" they burst out.
Those two have enjoyed teasing me for years (since the mid 1970s when I taught them in school).
After more mutual teasing and laughter, they pulled out and I ran up on the porch to discover no boxes and a closed sign on the ABC store door. As I approached my car I noticed the water company truck pulling back next to me. Earl and David were beside themselves again as they pointed out that I sure was in a mighty big hurry to get a bottle of booze at mid-morning.
I explained that I was just looking for boxes,,...and that just set them off again. "Oh sure," Earl chortled, "and I'm sure you just read the articles in Playboy!" With a grin and a smirk they motored off.
I saw Earl in the grocery store yesterday and he was still enjoying the joke. At the checkout counter I mentioned to him that one of the reasons I like Ocracoke so much is that folks don't take themselves so seriously here. "That's for sure," Earl said. "In some places one of us might have ended up with a bloody nose."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
When I opened my door I noticed Earl and David in convulsions of laughter. Earl rolled down his window. Between guffaws he informed me that David had just nodded toward my car and asked, "Who's that ------- idiot?" Then they both erupted in more unrestrained laughter. "Why, it's Philip Howard!" they burst out.
Those two have enjoyed teasing me for years (since the mid 1970s when I taught them in school).
After more mutual teasing and laughter, they pulled out and I ran up on the porch to discover no boxes and a closed sign on the ABC store door. As I approached my car I noticed the water company truck pulling back next to me. Earl and David were beside themselves again as they pointed out that I sure was in a mighty big hurry to get a bottle of booze at mid-morning.
I explained that I was just looking for boxes,,...and that just set them off again. "Oh sure," Earl chortled, "and I'm sure you just read the articles in Playboy!" With a grin and a smirk they motored off.
I saw Earl in the grocery store yesterday and he was still enjoying the joke. At the checkout counter I mentioned to him that one of the reasons I like Ocracoke so much is that folks don't take themselves so seriously here. "That's for sure," Earl said. "In some places one of us might have ended up with a bloody nose."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Dagwood & Herb
The spirit of community lives on at Ocracoke. Much like the comics characters, Dagwood and Herb Woodley, who frequently borrow each other's tools, we often do the same here on the island. About 25 years ago my neighbor, Al, had just gotten a brand new leather tool belt, but he didn't have a project at the time. I did, however, so Al loaned me the belt. I've had it ever since! He told me he'd let me know when he needed it back, but he seemed to do just fine without it, so I've kept it.
A few days ago, as I was putting on the tool belt to begin a minor carpentry project, I noticed that the stitching on one of the nail pockets was coming undone. I felt bad about it, so I called Al up. "Al," I said, "I thought you should know. You're tool belt is coming apart. It's time for you to buy a new one."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
A few days ago, as I was putting on the tool belt to begin a minor carpentry project, I noticed that the stitching on one of the nail pockets was coming undone. I felt bad about it, so I called Al up. "Al," I said, "I thought you should know. You're tool belt is coming apart. It's time for you to buy a new one."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
64 degrees
It's not even 9 o'clock yet, and already the temperature is in the mid 60s. And it's bright and sunny. It's too bad I've got a small indoor construction job to do today. But at least it's warm and pleasant, so when I have boards to cut I can take them outside without having to bundle up against a cold wind. And there's always a walk on the beach at the end of the day!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Dolphins & Scallops
Dolphins have been plentiful close offshore. On Friday there were dozens of them feeding & cavorting just beyond the nearest breakers. We followed them (or maybe they followed us; it was hard to tell since there were so many of them) as Amy and I enjoyed an afternoon walk. On Saturday I saw fewer, and they were farther away, but they were out there.
Yesterday I went scalloping again. We found another location (no need for a kayak this time), and they were thick. In one small depression I raked up dozens -- as many as 8 or 10 in every pass of the clam rake. We had no problem collecting our limit (a half bushel per person). I shucked them back home, sitting in the afternoon sunshine. Family and friends stopped by. By pooling resources and cooking, ten of us sat down at my table about 6:30 and feasted on freshly harvested scallops wrapped in bacon, salad, steamed broccoli, rice, southern style biscuits, & fresh fish.
As my Hungarian grandfather always said, "We eat good in America!"
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Yesterday I went scalloping again. We found another location (no need for a kayak this time), and they were thick. In one small depression I raked up dozens -- as many as 8 or 10 in every pass of the clam rake. We had no problem collecting our limit (a half bushel per person). I shucked them back home, sitting in the afternoon sunshine. Family and friends stopped by. By pooling resources and cooking, ten of us sat down at my table about 6:30 and feasted on freshly harvested scallops wrapped in bacon, salad, steamed broccoli, rice, southern style biscuits, & fresh fish.
As my Hungarian grandfather always said, "We eat good in America!"
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Reminder
Back on Thursday, January 29, I posted information about our latest monthly Newsletter. Later that day I published another entry. I think some readers may have missed the information about the Newsletter. To repeat, this month's Newsletter concentrates on the six largest live oaks on Ocracoke Island, and includes more information about them, where they live, and directions for finding them. I have also created three simple maps that will help you locate and identify these six trees, all of which have been registered with the Live Oak Society.
Click here to go directly to our January, 2009 Ocracoke Newsletter.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Click here to go directly to our January, 2009 Ocracoke Newsletter.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Thursday, February 05, 2009
PAYT
The Hyde County Commissioners have issued the following information about trash on Ocracoke. If you own property on the island, or live here all or part of the year, this information will help y0u adjust to our new Pay As You Throw policy.
"On May 5, 2008, the Board of Hyde County Commissioners voted to implement a Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) system of residential and commercial solid waste collection on Ocracoke Island after a year of public input and weighing alternatives. Previously, the county’s solid waste bill was being paid by monthly fees for residents and businesses that were standardized and did not reflect the amount of trash disposal by each household and business. In the place of a monthly fee that was previously attached to the property tax bills, residents will instead buy the appropriate bags and only pay for what they use. For business owners, instead of dumpster tipping fees or unfair standardized fees, each business will be responsible for buying their bags and using those for the disposal of non-recyclable solid waste on Ocracoke.
"At the Ocracoke convenience site, residents and businesses are encouraged to recycle their glass, plastic, newspapers, “white paper”, cardboard, and aluminum in the appropriate bins on site for FREE. By not having these heavier items in your everyday trash, the approved PAYT bags will only contain non-recyclable items. When you reduce your waste, you reduce your costs.
"Complimentary PAYT bags were given out at the first of the year to initiate this method of solid waste collection. The new, approved PAYT bags are $3.00 per bag. Another option for businesses and for larger households is a sticker that is available to stick on your own larger bags for $5. The new PAYT bags and stickers are currently available at the Ocracoke Convenience Site during regular hours.
"January was a month of transition and we'll be doing our best to answer questions as we continue forward. The big thing to remember is that PAYT will only work if the community WANTS it to work.
"By Monday, February 16, all Ocracoke residents and businesses should be using PAYT bags and stickers for their waste disposal.
"Please note that this new collection system will still use the existing curbside and dumpster pickup or you can dispose of your trash bags at the Ocracoke Convenience Site during regular hours. The plan to include all roads not previously covered by curbside pickup is still underway.
"Please be informed about the recycling program at the Ocracoke Convenience Site. The capacity for recycling has doubled at the convenience site to meet the expected demands of this system, but it is to your advantage to recycle everything that you can.
"What is PAY AS YOU THROW?
"It is a system that charges everyone for trash services based on the amount of waste they throw away. The system is fair to everyone, and it puts you in control of how much you spend on trash. Participating in Ocracoke’s new program will be easy: either place your trash in the approved $3 bag or your own larger bag with the $5 sticker. Then, just place these bags for curbside collection or take to the dump as you always have. Only trash in the approved bags or bags with approved stickers will be accepted. There are no other hidden charges, and no charges on your tax bill.
"Acceptable Recycling Items at the Ocracoke Convenience Site:
"Steel (tin) cans: Rinse, remove lid and place it in the can; labels may stay on. No aerosol or paint cans.
Aluminum cans: Rinse and crush if desired. No foil or foil pans, please.
Glass: Clear and brown food and beverage containers. Rinse and remove lids. No light bulbs, ceramics, windows, ovenware, candleholders, or cups, etc.
Newspapers and inserts: Place in bin and keep dry. Do not tie. We do accept magazines, phonebooks, or other papers. No shredded paper.
Plastics: # 1 and # 2 plastic bottles and jugs including soda, juice, milk, water, detergent, shampoo, etc. Check the number on the bottom, and must have a neck narrower than the base. Rinse, remove lid, and flatten. No wide mouth jars, tubs, buckets, bags, cups, plates, Styrofoam, or pesticide or motor oil bottles.
Cardboard: Please flatten and place in separate “cardboard only” bin at site.
"The Ocracoke Convenience Site winter hours are currently Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm.
If you have questions or want more information, please call James Blount, Hyde County Solid Waste Superintendant, at 252-926- 4196 ext.4463."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
"On May 5, 2008, the Board of Hyde County Commissioners voted to implement a Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) system of residential and commercial solid waste collection on Ocracoke Island after a year of public input and weighing alternatives. Previously, the county’s solid waste bill was being paid by monthly fees for residents and businesses that were standardized and did not reflect the amount of trash disposal by each household and business. In the place of a monthly fee that was previously attached to the property tax bills, residents will instead buy the appropriate bags and only pay for what they use. For business owners, instead of dumpster tipping fees or unfair standardized fees, each business will be responsible for buying their bags and using those for the disposal of non-recyclable solid waste on Ocracoke.
"At the Ocracoke convenience site, residents and businesses are encouraged to recycle their glass, plastic, newspapers, “white paper”, cardboard, and aluminum in the appropriate bins on site for FREE. By not having these heavier items in your everyday trash, the approved PAYT bags will only contain non-recyclable items. When you reduce your waste, you reduce your costs.
"Complimentary PAYT bags were given out at the first of the year to initiate this method of solid waste collection. The new, approved PAYT bags are $3.00 per bag. Another option for businesses and for larger households is a sticker that is available to stick on your own larger bags for $5. The new PAYT bags and stickers are currently available at the Ocracoke Convenience Site during regular hours.
"January was a month of transition and we'll be doing our best to answer questions as we continue forward. The big thing to remember is that PAYT will only work if the community WANTS it to work.
"By Monday, February 16, all Ocracoke residents and businesses should be using PAYT bags and stickers for their waste disposal.
"Please note that this new collection system will still use the existing curbside and dumpster pickup or you can dispose of your trash bags at the Ocracoke Convenience Site during regular hours. The plan to include all roads not previously covered by curbside pickup is still underway.
"Please be informed about the recycling program at the Ocracoke Convenience Site. The capacity for recycling has doubled at the convenience site to meet the expected demands of this system, but it is to your advantage to recycle everything that you can.
"What is PAY AS YOU THROW?
"It is a system that charges everyone for trash services based on the amount of waste they throw away. The system is fair to everyone, and it puts you in control of how much you spend on trash. Participating in Ocracoke’s new program will be easy: either place your trash in the approved $3 bag or your own larger bag with the $5 sticker. Then, just place these bags for curbside collection or take to the dump as you always have. Only trash in the approved bags or bags with approved stickers will be accepted. There are no other hidden charges, and no charges on your tax bill.
"Acceptable Recycling Items at the Ocracoke Convenience Site:
"Steel (tin) cans: Rinse, remove lid and place it in the can; labels may stay on. No aerosol or paint cans.
Aluminum cans: Rinse and crush if desired. No foil or foil pans, please.
Glass: Clear and brown food and beverage containers. Rinse and remove lids. No light bulbs, ceramics, windows, ovenware, candleholders, or cups, etc.
Newspapers and inserts: Place in bin and keep dry. Do not tie. We do accept magazines, phonebooks, or other papers. No shredded paper.
Plastics: # 1 and # 2 plastic bottles and jugs including soda, juice, milk, water, detergent, shampoo, etc. Check the number on the bottom, and must have a neck narrower than the base. Rinse, remove lid, and flatten. No wide mouth jars, tubs, buckets, bags, cups, plates, Styrofoam, or pesticide or motor oil bottles.
Cardboard: Please flatten and place in separate “cardboard only” bin at site.
"The Ocracoke Convenience Site winter hours are currently Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm.
If you have questions or want more information, please call James Blount, Hyde County Solid Waste Superintendant, at 252-926- 4196 ext.4463."
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
An Interesting Tidbit
Yesterday I was organizing a stack of papers when I came across a 1956 publication, "Geographical History of the Carolina Banks," by the Coastal Studies Institute of the Louisiana State University. I glanced through the 250 page document, looking at the sections I had underlined years ago. I was intrigued by these paragraphs:
"Portsmouth Township is the only district to show a decline since 1870.... Portsmouth's fall has been rather steady since the Civil War....In 1955 Portsmouth's permanent population was eighteen. It should be expected to rise in future years because all the lots and empty houses have been bought up in anticipation of increased tourist business....
"Ocracoke's population has not changed greatly since 1900.... Ocracoke's population will rise with the paving of the road to Hatteras Inlet, the provision of free ferry service across Hatteras Inlet, and the subsequent invasion of the island by greater numbers of tourists."
The authors were correct about Ocracoke, but not about Portsmouth. Interesting.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
"Portsmouth Township is the only district to show a decline since 1870.... Portsmouth's fall has been rather steady since the Civil War....In 1955 Portsmouth's permanent population was eighteen. It should be expected to rise in future years because all the lots and empty houses have been bought up in anticipation of increased tourist business....
"Ocracoke's population has not changed greatly since 1900.... Ocracoke's population will rise with the paving of the road to Hatteras Inlet, the provision of free ferry service across Hatteras Inlet, and the subsequent invasion of the island by greater numbers of tourists."
The authors were correct about Ocracoke, but not about Portsmouth. Interesting.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Scalloping Photos
As promised, here are several photos Amy took Sunday afternoon. She didn't take any out on the shoals because she didn't want to get her camera wet.
Philip & Dave Frum getting ready to take the kayak off the pickup truck:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Launching the kayak to get across the slough to shallow water:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
David & Lachlan hauling our treasure down the lane:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
A half bushel of bay scallops, fresh from the Sound:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Amy & Philip shucking scallops:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Extricating the tasty morsel:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Philip & Dave Frum getting ready to take the kayak off the pickup truck:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Launching the kayak to get across the slough to shallow water:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
David & Lachlan hauling our treasure down the lane:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
A half bushel of bay scallops, fresh from the Sound:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Amy & Philip shucking scallops:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Extricating the tasty morsel:
(Click on photo to see larger image.)
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
Monday, February 02, 2009
Scalloping
Scalloping season opened on Monday (recreational scalloping is reserved for Saturdays and Sundays, 7:30 am - 4:00 pm). Yesterday afternoon several friends and I headed to the Sound with rakes, dip nets, waders, plastic buckets, and kayaks. We left the village at 1:30, and were wading in calf-deep water by 2:00.
I walked quite a way but didn't see a single scallop. The shallow waters and tidal flats had been picked clean by seagulls (broken shells littered Highway 12). Even in deeper water I was having no luck. The wind was rippling the surface, making it difficult to see the bottom. Then I came to a large bed of eel grass some distance from the shore. The scallops were thick! My dip net broke so I just reached down and picked them up. Three or four scallops would be lying clustered near one another, and as I was picking them up I could feel more under my feet. In short order (and without venturing very far) I had my half bushel limit.
Fortunately the temperature was in the mid 50s (don't know what the water temperature was, but my hands sure got cold fast). By 4:30 we were back in the village. A half hour later (after unloading all of the gear) we tackled the scallops. It took an hour and a half to shuck two 5-gallon buckets full. By then Amy and I could hardly feel our fingers, they were so cold. While we were finishing up, and then taking our much anticipated showers, David cooked soup and sauteed the scallops in olive oil and garlic.
It is supremely satisfying to savor fresh seafood, gathered just a few hours beforehand, with family and friends.
In 2002 I published a monthly Newsletter describing a comical scalloping adventure. If you'd enjoy more details about this coastal experience click here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news030302.htm.
Amy shot some pictures yesterday afternoon. I'll post a few in the next couple of days.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
I walked quite a way but didn't see a single scallop. The shallow waters and tidal flats had been picked clean by seagulls (broken shells littered Highway 12). Even in deeper water I was having no luck. The wind was rippling the surface, making it difficult to see the bottom. Then I came to a large bed of eel grass some distance from the shore. The scallops were thick! My dip net broke so I just reached down and picked them up. Three or four scallops would be lying clustered near one another, and as I was picking them up I could feel more under my feet. In short order (and without venturing very far) I had my half bushel limit.
Fortunately the temperature was in the mid 50s (don't know what the water temperature was, but my hands sure got cold fast). By 4:30 we were back in the village. A half hour later (after unloading all of the gear) we tackled the scallops. It took an hour and a half to shuck two 5-gallon buckets full. By then Amy and I could hardly feel our fingers, they were so cold. While we were finishing up, and then taking our much anticipated showers, David cooked soup and sauteed the scallops in olive oil and garlic.
It is supremely satisfying to savor fresh seafood, gathered just a few hours beforehand, with family and friends.
In 2002 I published a monthly Newsletter describing a comical scalloping adventure. If you'd enjoy more details about this coastal experience click here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news030302.htm.
Amy shot some pictures yesterday afternoon. I'll post a few in the next couple of days.
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter provides more information about the majestic live oaks on Ocracoke Island. You can read it here.
To read about Philip's new book, Digging up Uncle Evans, History, Ghost Tales, & Stories from Ocracoke Island, please click here.
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