“Your Monthly Bill”

with Bill Gillespie

by Bill Gillespie

Southeast Coast Oil Exploration and Rigs: Not In My Backyard (NIMBY)

I remember the campaign war cries from 2008, “Drill Here, Drill Now.”

Perhaps we thought the oil drilling technology had become safer and that the emergency procedures had been refined making the probability of an accident minimal to nil. Many people rightly thought, “Why would we have all these oil rigs off our coasts if they hadn’t figured it all out?”

It appears the industry, to include BP, lacks the capability to deal with accidents miles below our ocean surfaces. Perhaps it is time to rethink our strategy, and perform the proper short-term and long-term assessments based on our needs, wants and values; especially as they impact our coastal economy, the environment, and our way of life. We all want cheaper energy that pollutes less, or not at all, as well as, an industry that helps to employ Americans. So why don’t we explore all options, especially if they are safer and more costly.

Research shows us that the southeast coast’s oil sources would be extremely costly to tap and would make no significant impact upon supply and cost in the US market. Releasing arrangements would provide the states leasing fess and access royalties, during budget shortfalls. Our politicians tend to think in the short-term, so supporting oil exploration for short-term gain will probably happen. However too many issue become loosey- goosey after the oil reserves are used-up and during problems.

Issues like: Who removes the equipment, pipes, and fixes the site areas to their natural condition, and who pays? Usually the tax payer gets stuck with the bills. And what of the “what if” accident! Will the states cap the liability and clean-up damages to entice a big bidder; could on it. Our coast could be forever damaged, and we — at the mercy of the Federal Government for help.

According to a Wall Street Journal online survey taken the week of April 26, more than 65% of the public now oppose offshore drilling. We really need to think about the local and regional impacts. What if South Carolina succeeded in getting and implementing the first oil exploration contract, then while setting up initial wells, they leaked oil down our coastal isles and all over Gray’s Reef. It’s not just a matter of protecting our coastal wetlands and reef; it’s also about preserving the coast’s economy. Georgia’s coast provides billions of dollars in revenue each year from tourism, as well as the region’s thriving shipping, fishing and other related industries. A disaster off our coast like the one unfolding in the Gulf would be crippling for decades.

Why not invest our tax dollars in alternative energy technology that promotes innovative, sustainable ways to use our coastal resources for our communities and future generations, for example. wind, solar, geo-thermal and wave action. There are just as many US and global corporation, as well as small businesses ready to invest in these energy fields. The initial start-up capital is no more than the oil fees; however, the medium (10-15 years) and long range (25-30 year) costs would be significantly cheaper, and with no potential for environmental collapse.

Whatever energy options we choose, we need to avoid significant risks to our treasured resources and future generations. We must insist on thorough and accurate assessments of current conditions and trends, as these reflect the public interest and the region’s future. When information is inadequate to make reliable decisions, we, the public, need to know. We will need consistent, accountable, and fair enforcement of all environmental regulations.

May we choose well, and may BP find a way to stop the leak soon!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

by Bill Gillespie

Every spring, I look forward to buying my annual Fort Pulaski National Monument pass for the great locals’ price of $10. What a deal! Ft. Pulaski is open all year-round. I always appreciate my time in the park and I learn something new every time I go. I am writing this article with hope that others can experience the same pleasures of discovering, or rediscovering Fort Pulaski’s great dog friendly trails, bike paths, open spaces, wildlife, birds, kayaking, the Fort and the history. Every time we go, we do something completely different. All these great things to do, and just a 5 minute drive from Tybee.

The history of the Fort is truly amazing. Prior to the Civil War, brick forts were America’s main defense against overseas enemies. This Fort was quickly seized and held by Confederate troops after the secession of the southern states. This fort would play a crucial role in defending the access to the port of Savannah. However, in one two-day battle on April 10-11, 1862, the new weapons technology proved its superiority to brick forts. The Union forces used newly rifled cannons to compel a surrender by Confederates inside Fort Pulaski, for their commander feared the Fort’s power storage room could be hit, explode, and kill everyone defending. No one ever built a brick fort again after the battle. Guided tours are offered daily, and the interpretive program includes musket firings, expanded living history programs, and cannon demonstrations.

The outdoor enthusiast will really enjoy exploring the nature trails throughout the park. Selected trails include: North Pier, Lighthouse Overlook, Historic Dike System, and McQueens Island Rails to Trails. The North Pier Trail takes you through a scenic wood, passes the remnants of early fort buildings, and ends at the shore Battery Hambright and pier. The Lighthouse Overlook Trail guides visitors along open marsh as well as a coastal vegetated environment offering great views of the Savannah River, and Tybee Island. The short trail also offers the island’s best views of the historic 19th century Cockspur Island Lighthouse. You can even walk out to the Lighthouse at low tide. The Dike System Trail shows the handy work of Lt. Robert E. Lee, who designed the dike system, which allowed for tide control and drainage, and aided the construction of Fort Pulaski. This longer trail circles the Fort, and offers visitors unparalleled views of Cockspur Island and the Savannah River. Lastly, the McQueens Island Rails to Trails located on McQueens Island at the entrance to the park is my favorite. This six-mile trail follows the path of the old Tybee rail line that once connected Savannah to the beaches of Tybee Island. The packed-gravel trail is open to bikers, runners, walkers, and is the only trail where leashed dogs are not allowed.

For nature lovers, the park supports many species of birds and wildlife. While visiting, you may catch a glimpse of one of the many protected species that have been identified at the park. Large populations of both resident and migratory birds are present. The salt marshes and upland areas of Fort Pulaski National Monument support many species of wildlife, including an abundance of White Tail Deer and Raccoons. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of one of the 11 protected species that have been identified at the park. These are: American oystercatcher, bald eagle, gull-billed tern, least tern, loggerhead sea turtle, manatee, peregrine falcon, piping plover, swallow-tailed kite, Wilson’s plover and woodstork.

Don’t forget to plan your trip wisely, and wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks or lunch, plenty of insect repellent and plenty of water, especially in the summer months. Last visit my dog loved the trails and playing on the river’s edge. And what I learned on this visit of a historical nature, I hope never repeats itself – and that was that the spring 1881 storm was 23 feet above sea level totally flooded the Lighthouse!

For Tybee residents, I think the annual pass is a great deal and must have.

Again, I wish you great discoveries and rediscoveries at the Fort!

Bill

You may contact Bill Gillespie at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

For more information, please check-out the Park Service site: http://www.nps.gov/fopu/index.htm.
(3 Photos compliments of Fort Pulaski National Park)

(Photo close-up of Cockspur Lighthouse by Cynthia Kinkel, copyright 2010, The Tybee Times)

“The Spring Cleaning Ritual

by Bill Gillespie

The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, but our house, yard, and brain still feel like they’re stuck with the winter blues. It is time for the physical and mental act of redemption – “the Spring Cleaning Ritual.” There is just something extra wonderful about spring and springing forward! It is a time to put away the winter wear, clear clutter, get organized, and prepare for summer. It is also a great time for introspection, which includes clearing the mental slate, turning the page of life, starting anew; all based on forgiving, forgetting, reconciling, and establishing new goals and habits.
Spring cleaning is an old tradition that allows us to freshen up our homes and yards, and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. Spring cleaning not so long ago, involved a complete top to bottom cleaning of every square inch of a home. To complete the process, families would often spend days and nights removing, cleaning, and replacing everything in the home to create that spring-fresh feeling. Today’s spring cleaning may not be as involved, but there are a few tasks that need to be performed seasonally in your home for the proper organization and maintenance.

Here are a few simple, but critical chores that need to be done this spring:

1. Store your seasonal clothing. Put away your sweaters, coats, and other cold weather and seasonal items in proper storage containers. Ensure that they are clean and stored properly so they are in good shape for next winter.
2. Check the appliances. Clean the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, disposal, washer, dryer, and dryer vent. Service the HVAC system.
3. Clear the clutter This is perfect time to remove clutter, trash and excess. Don’t forge the yard, garage, closet and attics. Decide what should be kept, sold, given away, donated, recycled, or trashed. Make sure to organize your tools and sports equipment.
4. Patios and Outdoor Areas. Clean the exterior of you home, the patio, outdoor furniture and lawn. Do some basic landscaping repairs on the trees, lawn and shrubbery. Inspect your yard areas for required routine maintenance, and pest prevention. For a few — remove unused junk from the lawn, and think about getting rid of the old boat, trailer, or car that you haven’t used in a decade.
5. Cleaning the interior of home. It is time to inspect and clean the window treatments, mattress, bedding, furniture, and carpets. You can the then figure out what needs to be repaired, professionally cleaned, repainted, or replaced.
6. Establish some personal spring and summer goals. Perhaps you can relook at your New Year resolutions, or make a personal improvement “to do” list. I always add some self improvement books, and start some good summer habits. It is always good to keep challenging yourself.

Even though these chores only need to be done once or twice a year, they’ll make your house look and feel better. For me, checklists always help with planning and executing. You’ll have to plan a trip to the store to get the right supplies. Lastly, try getting the entire family involved to establish the tradition. I wish you well and an uncluttered house and mind!

Bill

Contact Bill at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

Haiti:  Relief, Geography and History
(Sources: US Government CIA Fact Book, API News)

Bill Gillespie

Since the January 12, 2010 — 7.0 magnitude earthquake, the world’s attention has been on Haiti.   It is important that we understand the relief effort and Haiti’s geography and history.   The earthquake devastated the capital city, Port au Prince, and all of the major infrastructure including government, police and fire department buildings, as well as the port, airport, transportation network, water, sewer and electrical grid.  This loss of resources has severely hampered relief efforts.  Most of the damage occurred due to substandard building practices, which lacked reinforcing steel in the concrete.

More than 150,000 people were reported killed, although the exact number is unknown and reports are still fluctuating.  Over 200,000 have been injured.  A large number of up to 2 million are homeless and require help.  Tent camps have been slow to materialize.  Haiti’s government, weak before the calamity, is virtually non-functional.  UN peacekeepers have been in the country for six years providing security, since a bloody rebellion ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.   Do you remember Aristide?  We helped put him in power after a military coup in 1994.  Currently, the UN and a multi-national force led by the US are there helping to assist the victims, citizens and government of Haiti.

Many international, national and local relief efforts and donation collection centers are in place.  If you want to donate money the most trusted relief agencies include the American Red Cross, UNICEF’s Relief Work, The Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund and Feed the Children.  Locally, Tybee’s City Hall has a drop off center in the lobby for emergency supplies such as blankets, medical first-aid items, canned food, sanitation items and clothes. Additionally, many local churches and medical facilities are taking collections, and coordinating volunteer efforts to go to Haiti.  Perhaps you can help in some way?

The Haitian link to America, Savannah and our revolutionary war history is strong. In 1779, over 500 free black volunteers from Haiti, the Chasseurs Volontaires de Saint Dominque joined combined French and American forces attempting to retake Savannah from the British.  After a devastating siege, the Haiti forces covered the combined forces’ withdrawal allowing for an orderly military operation and stopping a British counter-attack.  As a symbol of gratitude, Savannah has a new Haitian Monument in Franklin Square to commemorate that sacrifice and friendship.

Haiti is a country about the size of the state of Maryland. It is the poorest country in the western hemisphere, with the average person surviving on about $2 per day. Two-thirds of all Haitians depend on the agricultural sector, mainly small-scale subsistence farming for income.  Haiti occupies the western third of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola; the Dominican Republic takes up the eastern two-thirds.   A 2009 estimate of the population is 10,033,000; with about one-third of people living around the capital of Port-au-Prince.  Haitian Creole and French are the official languages.  90–95% of Haitians are of predominately African descent; the remaining 5–10% of the population are mostly of mixed-race background.  Haiti is predominantly a Christian country, with Roman Catholicism practiced by 80%, and Protestants practiced by 16% of the population.   Haitian Voodoo, a unique new world and African mixed religion is practiced by roughly half the population. Millions of Haitians live abroad, chiefly in North America: the Dominican Republic (800,000), United States (600,000), and Canada (100,000).

Haiti is also a very mountainous country with more than 3/4ths of the territory being 600 feet and above. Its climate is both tropical and semiarid.  Fertile valleys are interspersed between the mountain ranges forming vast areas of contrast between elevations in many areas throughout the territory. The country is separated from Cuba by way of the Windward Passage of the Caribbean Sea, which is only 50 miles wide.  Haiti’s lowest elevation is at sea level, while its highest point is the Mountain Pic La Selle at 8,793 ft.  There are two rainy seasons, April–June and October–November. Haiti is subject to periodic droughts and floods, made more severe by deforestation.  Hurricanes are also a severe reoccurring menace.  Let’s hope this spring hurricane season will spare the island nation.

Haiti’s history is fascinating and diverse. Christopher Columbus landed at Môle Saint-Nicolas on Dec. 5th, 1492, and claimed the island for Spain.  Haitian politics have been contentious ever since. Most Haitians are aware of their history as the only country in the Western Hemisphere to undergo a successful slave rebellion, revolution, and gain independence from France, in 1804.  Inspired by the French Revolution, Haitian Toussaint l’Ouverture, a former slave and leader in the slave revolt, rose as a military leader, and later commanded the Haitian war effort.   Through leadership and skill he achieved independence after years of war against both external invaders and internal dissension.  In a last ditch effort, Napoleon Bonaparte sent an expedition of 20,000 men under the command of his brother-in-law, General Charles Leclerc, to retake the island. Leclerc’s mission was to oust l’Ouverture and restore slavery. The French achieved some victories, but within a few months, yellow fever had killed most of the French soldiers (estimates are around 50,000), including 18 generals.

Haiti has a long history of oppression by dictators including François Duvalier and his son Jean-Claude Duvalier; they both markedly affected the nation.  France and the United States have repeatedly intervened in Haitian politics since the country’s founding, sometimes at the request of one party or another. In January 1914, British, German and United States forces entered Haiti, ostensibly to protect their citizens from civil unrest. The U.S. passed the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, which allowed for a US military presence and occupation.  The United States occupied the island in 1915 and units were stationed in the country until 1934.  Operation Uphold Democracy (September 19, 1994 – March 31, 1995) was another US military assistance response to the overthrow and expulsion of the duly elected Haitian government of Jean Bertrand Aristide from a military coup led by Lieutenant General Raoul Cédras.  Cedras was Haiti’s de facto ruler of 1991 to 1994.

This earthquake tragedy could have happened in many neighboring countries.   It is important that we know something about our southern neighbor.  We are going to be there a long time providing security and nation building assistance.  It is in our best interest.  A large outflow of Haitian refugees would be devastating and destabilizing to the region.  We have proved time and time again that we are a compassionate and giving nation.  Perhaps there is something you can do?

Contact Bill at william.gillespie@us.army.mil

Are We Ready for Dogs on the Beach?

with Bill Gillespie

There has been much scuttlebutt around our fine drinking establishments that this could really be the year!  The year for what, you ask: “Dogs on the Beach, at Tybee.”  Many believe it is an idea whose time has come again.  In just over two months, a FaceBook group site called Dogs on Beach, Tybee, Georgia, garnered over 3000 supporters.  The group includes Tybee residents, Savannahians, Chatham County residents, former tourists and potential tourists.  They all are asking for trial access, and soon.  There are some great advantages and possibly some not so nice side effects for dogs on our beaches.

Locally Hilton Head, St. Simons, Jekyll, Amelia Islands, and Jacksonville all allow some form of dog access on their beaches.  It appears they have worked through all the tough issues – water quality, policy, enforcement, education, and self-regulation and compliance.  These locations are well marketed and published in all state, national and international vacation guides.  Jekyll Island is actually ranked number ten in the USA, “Best Dog Beaches.”  For these beach locations, dog access has been a win for residents, tied to quality of life improvement, and a win for tourists and tourist related businesses.   Tybee could use a win-win, especially all year ‘round.

Tampa Bay, Florida and Venice Beach, California are two examples of dog beach access being an economic windfall.  These two dog friendly cities like the results of being dog friendly, since dog owners spend more, stay longer and are a step up in socioeconomic demographics from the regular tourist.   Pets and the pet industry have proved to be recession proof.  A whopping 55% of American tourists vacation with their pet (Atlanta Magazine, 2/2009).  Dog beach access can benefit a community in many other positive ways, including raised property values; people moving to the area to be close to the dog park; a safer neighborhood; a sense of community where people can socialize, network and make friends; and of course happy, socialized dogs who make better pets and neighbors.

Our own local tourist study by Georgia Tech business students supports a positive dog access outcome for Tybee.  The tourism study on those that vacation on Tybee called the typical extended stay visitors, “educated professionals, conservative, upper –to middle income, and married couples with children.”  This classification fits the “responsible dog owner” profile perfectly, and could be a starting point for further research, discussion, and a trial for dogs on Tybee beaches.

Many residents are rightly worried about legal issues, water quality and irresponsible folks leaving behind poop.  However, studies after study say otherwise, in fact, these issues can’t be substantially documented, according to a California state study examining 56 dog beaches.  People in general are responsible, and help to police each other.  Even Georgia DNR cannot link dog waste to any water quality issues.  As for transmitted parasites like roundworm, ringworm, and hookworm, they have not been a serious issue on southern beaches in decades; monthly heartworm medicine kills these parasites in dogs, as does sun and air exposure. Many vets and medical doctors believe media and government officials would do better promoting the use of sun screen, protective clothing and water safety than focusing on E. Coli bacteria, sand borne diseases and dog disease transmission to humans – all just are extremely rare (Health Facts and Fear, American Council on Science and Health).

These tough economic times call for some additional thought and leadership.  Tybee loses out on millions of dollars of tourist revenue because of the dog restriction. Many Atlantans vacation on Hilton Head and St. Simons because they want to vacation with their pet dog.  Additionally, our housing market suffers because it is hard to attract retirees with dogs.  Tourists and beach home buyers have many options out there, and very close by.  There are many good dog access options: limited hours, seasonal access only, designated areas, access fees, and volunteer beach marshals.  Easing the restriction could be an economic windfall and win-win for all.  It has been for all the other beach areas cited that allow access.  Is it time for a Tybee beach test and trial area?
Think about it!
Bill

Columnist Bill Gillespie is a retired Army Corps of Engineers Lieutenant Colonel. Currently, he’s a part-time History Professor, at AASU, an Army Retirement Career Coach at Ft. Stewart, and an active citizen and proud Tybee community member.
Contact contributing writer, Bill Gillespie by e-mail at william.gillespie@us.army.mil.