Author: Mark Shaffer

The Backyard Tourist’s Guide For Travels With Dogs “His name is not Wild Dog anymore, but the First Friend, because he will be our friend for always and always and always.”- Rudyard KiplingRudyard Kipling was a dog man. Me too. Don’t get me wrong. I have nothing against cats. I’ve had several – or rather I’ve served on staff for a few. And when it comes to hitting the open road your average feline makes a less than ideal travel companion. There are exceptions, of course, but I think the reason is simple: cats really don’t want to do anything on your terms.  (The author, with Ollie and Scout)

From the basics to the big stuff, the Backyard Tourist has what’s hot at Beaufort’s local outfitters.    By Mark Shaffer For a lot of locals and visitors alike, summer in the Lowcountry is all about being on, in or near the water. It’s second nature for natives. After all, when you live on an island you’re never far from water, and if you grew up in Beaufort chances are a large part of your summer was spent A) on a sandbar, B) in the river, C) on a boat or D) A, B and C.

Internationally recognized scientist to speak at Beaufort High. Dr. Louis Guillette talks with Mark Shaffer about his groundbreaking research on the impact of toxic chemicals on the reproductive systems of alligators and humans.   Lou Guillette has a thing for gators. It just took twist of fate to figure it out. Soon after earning his PhD in Comparative Reproductive Biology at the University of Colorado he joined the faculty at the University of Florida where the only thing more ubiquitous than images of the toothy school mascot is the slogan, “Go Gators!”

Frank Roberts’ Lady’s Island Oyster Farm brings a sustainably harvested oyster to the Lowcountry and hope for the revitalization of a lost way of life.   (Note: A version of this article first appeared in Lowcountry Weekly December 21, 2011.)