Island Connection - September 18, 2009

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON SC PERMIT NO 437

Volume 3 Issue 11

September 18, 2009

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ilitary cadence calls echoed off the brick walls of St. Johns High School on the morning of September 11. The school troop was in full uniform, marching from one end of the parking lot to the other, rehearsing calls and formations in preparation for the ten o’clock ceremony. In the grassy front lawn of the school, a collection of red, yellow and white t-shirts flitted about between broad lengths of blue tarp and several piles of landscaping gravel and mulch. Of the three colors, two were volunteers. The nine men and women in red shirts were volunteers from Blackbaud, while the three or four yellow shirts were from Communities in Schools. The white shirts were 15 plus students from the St. Johns High School Interact Club, and they were all doing their part to participate in that day’s national Day of Caring. Although Trident United Way has been celebrating the Day of Caring since 1992, and unofficial Days of Caring have been held on September 11 for several years, this year marks the first officially-designated National Day of Service and Remembrance. In honor of the day, tens of thousands of people in all 50 states volunteered their time in the community, doing everything from building rabbit hutches at local animal shelters to volunteering at soup kitchens to helping at local schools. At St. Johns, the volunteers spent the morning decorating and filling a couple dozen planters and painting short white lengths of picket fence to be placed in various sunny nooks around the school. Other volunteers took up shovels and began digging out the star-shaped pattern of the school’s football team, the Islanders, in two central places in the school’s front lawn. The Interact Club came up with the ideas, but they could never have been completed without the help of the community. The flowers for the planters were donated by the president of the St. Johns Rotary Club, Mauricio Esperanza, and with his help the school was able to purchase the gravel, mulch and flower boxes for the various projects at deeply discounted prices. As the volunteers completed one star

and began to move on to the second, a school bell rang and suddenly, the courtyard was filled with students lining the circular drive by the school entrance. As everyone settled into place, the cadence calls of the JROTC could be heard as they marched in formation from the school parking lot to the front of the school. The group was preceded by a single line of cadets, one of which grasped the folded American flag firmly between his palms. As the troop rounded the corner, the cadets stood at attention before the school flag pole. The JROTC came to attention and, following a brief prayer, the leader shouted for the colors to be raised. In moments, the American flag unfurled, followed closely by the blue and white of the South Carolina flag. Both were raised to full mast, and then dropped to half. As the students looked up, the quiet was broken by a single trumpet. Senior Jeffery Woodard stood by the flagpole, playing a heartfelt rendition of “Taps”. As the last notes echoed across the assembly, the firm young voice of Senior Airman Harold Mills piped up from the crowd. “Do you know how many people died on September 11, 2001?” He asked as he walked to the center of the drive in full uniform. A JROTC shouted in reply, “3,100, sir!” “Thank you!” said Mills. “Now the rest of you … How many have died since the attacks on 9/11?” The students guessed, but were shocked at the number of 5,000 plus soldiers that Mills stated had died in battle since that tragic day. “I graduated from this school in 2005,” said Mills. “And the best advice you can receive is to go to school, go to class and get your education. These teachers push you, and that’s great,” he said. “This is your opportunity to be the best citizens of the United States that you can be.” As the ceremony concluded, students returned to classrooms and volunteers wrapped up their projects, looking forward to the full lunch prepared by the school’s culinary art students. However, the solemnity of the ceremony still clung to students and volunteers, evident in the unusual quiet in the halls and project areas.

I n s id e

page 11 Pet expo

t h e

A day of remembrance at St. Johns

I sl a nd

On thy grave the rain shall fall from the eyes of a mighty nation!  ~Thomas William Parsons

Con nection. . .

page 6 OLM Tournament

page 15 the day he arrived

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September 18, 2009

Kiawah Island Council – September 1, 2009

Second reading: Ordinance 2009-06: Control of Pets The second reading of the ordinance was seconded with only one comment which came from Councilman Orban, who pointed out that the words “and under voice command” should be included under the “dogs off leash” area on the diagram which maps out the on leash/off

The Island Connection Lynn Pierotti Publisher [email protected] Kristin Hackler Managing Editor [email protected] Swan Richards Graphic Designer [email protected] Ali Akhyari Assistant Editor [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Ashleigh McHenry Advertising [email protected] Interns Dylan Sharek Paul Robinson Ben Gilbert Contributors Jennifer Barbour David Farrow Emily Laurie Jessica Richardson Rosebank Farms Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Future deadlines: September 23 for submissions.

Op-Ed articles do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Lucky Dog News or its writers.

leash areas of the beach. The Ordinance was passed unanimously with the change. Second reading of Ordinance 2009-08: copies of homeowner DHEC permit applications to be simultaneously sent to Town Administrator. Second reading passed unanimously. Arts Council Annual Report Councilman Lipuma reported that the Arts Council held 21 events over the course of the 2008-2009 season. “Once again the performances were varied, professional, exciting and well received,” said Lipuma. Music performances included world-acclaimed pianist Fred Moyer, Quiana Parlor, the Andrew Thielen Big Band, Barcino Baroque and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra featuring Yuriy Bekker, among others. Lipuma noted that the season’s General Fund budget was $100,000 for program events and $15,000 for administration, which included ticket, poster and program printing. The Arts Council spent a total of $95,199 (95.2% of budget) on program events and $6,017 (40.1% of budget) on administration. The ATAX CSO event was on budget at $25,000. Attendance for the season averaged around 90%. Lipuma thanked everyone on Council for all their hard work this past year, and noted that the Council’s newest members, Ellie Burnaford and Linda Morganstein, had contributed significantly. “Running an event can be a formidable undertaking,” said Lipuma. “Having said that, I want to thank Lenni Freeburg, Bill Blizard, Mary Johnson, Arie DeZanger, Linda Morganstein, Julie Fenimore, Carol Ann Smalley, Ellie Burnaford and Stephanie Braswell for a well done year.” The full Arts Council 2008-2009 season report is available

Amendments to the budget (Ordinance 2009-09) Town Administrator Tumiko Rucker noted that the Ordinance made a few changes to this year’s budget, including an additional $3,000 for vehicle repairs, an additional $88,000 to add the Regimes to Solid Waste Services, and an additional $25,000 to the Contingency Fund to replace the amount used for recycling containers. The changes, Rucker noted, are required due to anticipated increases in maintenance costs and the expansion of the solid waste and recycling program. The Ordinance was given first reading and was approved unanimously. Bike Path and Parkway Councilman Orban began by asking for an approval to authorize Mayor Wert and himself to be able to approve up to $50,000 on change orders for the Kiawah Island Parkway Project; a recommendation which was previously

approved by Ways and Means. “We need this latitude because the Council only convenes once a month and we need to be able to take care of these issues as soon as possible,” Orban explained. “I had this approval on the roundabout project and we did nicely with that procedure.” The authorization was approved unanimously. Secondly, Orban asked for approval on three change orders which were reviewed and informally approved to prevent delays in the Parkway construction process. The changes were 1) $3,841.80 for tree protection; 2) housekeeping changes, including the cleaning and inspection of storm drains, removal of unsuitable material, soil stabilization fabric, the removal of two pine trees, etc. coming to $39,136.47; and 3) Resurveying by Southeastern Surveying, who found that actual elevations did not match the existing ground survey, the total of which came to $4,189.50. The construction contract total now stands at $1,272,754.13. Mayor Wert noted that any change orders over $50,000 will be required to go through the Council. All of KI Council continued on page 4

The new bike path bridge on Kiawah Island Road is nearing completion.

Civic Calendar

Monday, September 21

Kiawah Island Board of Zoning Appeals 4pm - 5pm Town Hall Council Chambers

Tuesday, September 22 Seabrook Island Town Council All Town Council meetings will be held at 2:30pm at the Town Hall unless noted otherwise on the Town bulletin board.

Thursday, October 1 Johns Island Council Meeting 7pm – 8pm Berkeley Electric Co-Op on Maybank Rd. Kiawah Island Arts Council 3pm - 5pm Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room

Monday, October 5

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online and at Town Hall. “Thank you to all on the Arts Council who made this possible,” said Mayor Wert.

Kiawah Island Environmental Committee 3pm - 5pm Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room

Tuesday, October 6 Kiawah Island Town Council 2pm - 4pm

Town Hall Council Chambers

Kiawah Island Ways and Means Committee meeting 8am Kiawah Island Municipal Center’s 2nd Floor Conference Room

Wednesday, October 7 Kiawah Island Planning Commission 3pm - 5pm Town Hall Council Chambers Seabrook Island Planning Commission – work session All Planning Commission meetings will be held at 2:30pm at the Town Hall unless noted otherwise on the Town bulletin board.

Monday, October 12 St. Johns Fire District Commission 7pm St. Johns Commission Building 3327 Maybank Highway, Johns Island

Wednesday, October 14 Seabrook Island Planning Commission All Planning Commission meetings will be held at 2:30pm at the Town Hall unless noted otherwise on the Town bulletin board.

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Kiawah Island Town Hall 21 Beachwalker Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Phone: 768-9166 Fax: 768-4764 Email: [email protected] Seabrook Island Town Hall 2001 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, SC 29455 Phone: 768-9121 Fax: 768-9830 Email: [email protected] Johns Island Council Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Hwy, John’s Island. Chairman Chris Cannon: 343-5113 Charleston County Council 4045 Bridge View Drive, North Charleston (843) 958-4700 City of Charleston 75 Calhoun St. (843) 724-3745

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September 18, 2009

Johns Island Council meeting – September 3, 2009 Treasurer’s report Sam Brownlee reported that $76 had been spent on the Council’s yearly postal box rental, so the remaining balance stands at $676.31. CHATS “As all of you know, Main Road is being repaved,” Sam Brownlee reported. “But that’s about all I know at this time.” There were no other Johns Island projects discussed at the CHATS meeting. Chairman’s report “I only have a little bit to report,” said Chairman Chris Cannon. “We talked about removing a few trees for a utility line along Maybank Highway and I was surprised, they turned two of them down.” Both the 27 inch DBH grand double magnolia and the 33.5 inch DBH grand double live oak at 3125 Maybank were disapproved. However, the 25 inch gum tree at 2931 Maybank was approved. “Guess they felt that a gum tree wasn’t worth while,” Cannon smiled. Chairman Cannon noted that nothing pertaining to Johns Island has appeared on any of the meeting agendas for the City of Charleston, and the only thing coming up with the County is a special exception request for a “resource extraction” ,or dirt pit, at 2953 Plowground Road. The request will be heard during the September 14 meeting of the Board of Zoning Appeals. Cannon also announced that the Council will be forming subcommittees at the next meeting, and encouraged everyone to attend so they could choose the committee on which they would like to serve. New business Sam Brownlee brought in a copy of The Post & Courier, with a report on the Johns Island road studies proposed at the September 1 County Council meeting. The report included a list of suggestions, which the Council members discussed. Cannon noted that the County had discussed several different suggestions for improvement to the current Johns Island roads, including widening Main Road from Maybank up to Brownswood; installing a right and left turn lane from Plowground to Bohicket; a left turn

lane, bridge replacement and grand tree impacts at River and Murraywood, and a right turn lane at Plowground and River. Council member Thomas Legare stated that a traffic circle would probably fix the troubled River and Maybank intersection. “Right off of River onto Maybank and vice versa, I think it would work,” said Legare. “Short term, they can put turn lanes on Maybank and River Road, but long term, I think this pitchfork thing will solve the problem.” Cannon asked if anyone had any comments about the trees that the SCDOT is proposing to remove, as per the presentation by Joel Evans from the Charleston County Planning Commission at the last Council meeting. Vice Chairman Rich Jenkins asked what the difference between the orange and gray tapes around different trees on the sides of the road stood for, and Brownlee stated that the orange tape was from surveying, but he wasn’t sure about the gray tape. “I’m just trying to understand why they would wrap all these different colored tapes around trees,” said Jenkins. Cannon elaborated on the issue, noting that the colors were generally a coding system, letting contractors know the tree’s details, such as save it, cut it, or “this is a grand tree”. Cannon also noted that the County Council is “entertaining” the idea of a Parkway again. “No, they authorized spending $200,000 of our tax money on doing the study,” Legare said. “They’ve voted on it, now they’re sending out an RFP [Request for Proposals] to do the study. It’s in the works.” “We need to let the Councilmen know that we’re not happy about it at all,” said Cannon. “This is the most underhanded thing that the County Council has done to the Johns Island people,” said Legare. “They put it in the Finance Committee agenda as three things: the pitchfork, road improvements and a $200,000 study for the best alignment for a Cross Island Parkway. Honestly, I don’t think County Council knows what it voted for. Added into the three items was a study for widening Main and Bohicket road. They could very well say we need the Cross Island and widen Main and Bohicket. Dickie Schweers seems like the only

friend we have on Council [Schweers was the only Council member to vote against the studies]. What’s going to happen is that they will spend the $200,000 of our tax dollars to come up with alignments, Johns Island will slap them down and we just wasted two or three years and $200,000 of our money.” Resident Henry Chavis argued with Legare, pointing out that, “We won’t be able to get off this island when the economy improves. The pitchfork won’t help it. If they take Maybank and move traffic without causing a tie-up and put a turning lane down the center, you have it taken care of.” New website Secretary John Kozma reported that he had looked into several different

website names, and found that JohnsIslandCouncil.com, .net and .org were available.”You could also put in hyphens and underscores, but I would prefer not to use them,” said Kozma. “If we go with JohnsIslandCouncil.com, we could go ahead and get the other two (.net and .org) for cheap.” Kozma stated he had experience with creating a website and suggested using GoDaddy for $60/ year. Cannon said they would all consider the ideas and would vote on it at the next Council meeting. The next Johns Island Council meeting will be held at the Berkeley Electric Co-Op at 3351 Maybank Hwy. at 7pm on Thursday, October 1.

Roads are moving along

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Provided by Sam Reed

lthough you might not know it from reading The Post and Courier, a huge step forward was accomplished recently for Johns Island road safety. On September 1, the Charleston County Council approved the study of a “Sea Island Greenway” by a vote of 8 to 1. The study could determine a proposed route, the environmental impacts, and consideration of financing for the design and build of such a roadway. Only Councilman Dickie Schweers of McClellanville voted against the proposal. The Council also authorized improvements to Maybank Highway, work on engineering for work on several Johns Island intersections, and a study on the possibility of widening Bohicket and Main roads instead of building a new “Greenway”. Mayor McNulty, POA board member Jim Bannwart, Town Councilman Bill Holtz, and Seabrook Roads Committee members Gene Danielson and Sam Reed also attended the Council meeting. McNulty and Reed expressed appreciation to the Council for its forward step. Mayor Bill Wert, Town Councilman Al Burnaford, and Community Association Chair Paul Roberts of Kiawah also attended and thanked Council for its action. County Council acknowledged that a traffic safety issue exists on Johns Island roads, and expressed a need to do something about it sooner rather than later. County Councilman Vic Rawl, a property owner on Johns Island, mentioned the need to evaluate the value of a human life versus the value of a tree. A few citizens spoke, mostly in favor of the plan, but some were not so sure, including Seabrook resident Harry Polychron, who thinks building a new road is a waste of money. He does propose, however, that the roads at Kiawah be opened to the public, and then build a bridge from Kiawah to Folly Beach.

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4 KI Council continued from page 2 the change orders were approved unanimously. As for the construction itself, Orban reported that everything is coming along. The bridge is essentially done and it looks “plenty wide enough for two bikes to pass”, said Orban, noting that there is about nine feet of space between the railings. The contractors hope to start paving the path in late September and the major roadway paving will begin sometime after October 8. He also stated that the Town is out for bids on the landscaping and, presuming that they receive reasonable bids, the landscaping will begin immediately and everything will be essentially done by the fall. Sea Island Greenway Alignment and Cost Study “A lot’s been written about the Greenway in the past couple weeks and days,” said Councilman Burnaford. “The Charleston County Finance Committee voted to approve sending the Greenway study to County Council. The study will give the facts for the Greenway, not just emotion.” He stated that the study will determine the most appropriate path through Johns Island and the actual costs associated with its construction. “The Council will then decide whether or not to go forward with it,” he said. Burnaford then motioned that the Town forgo a $200,000 application to Charleston County to assist in funding the Kiawah Island Parkway, and asked that the funds be used instead for the Greenway study. Councilman Lipuma also noted that Dr. Paul Roberts and Councilman Burnaford are considered to be informal authorities on the Greenway project. “I’d hate to give them [the company to be hired by County to conduct the survey] money and then have them go off and start from scratch,” said Lipuma. “I’d suggest that you both be involved in the study.” Councilman McKeown also commented on the $200,000 proposal, stating that, as a responsible member of the community, the funds would be much better used to conduct the study to get the data, which would help them decide whether or not to go forward with the Greenway project. He also noted that the $200,000 from the County had not been included in the original budget, “So while we’re giving up funds, we hadn’t planned on receiving any,” he said. “The real issue is that Charleston County sees this as the right way to go,” said Orban. “Hopefully this is the key; to get a solidification of the study and to get a real idea of where this is going.” He then read the formal resolution, which states that the Town of Kiawah Island agrees not to apply to Charleston County for up to $200,000 of the monies Charleston County has appropriated to assist the Town of Kiawah for the construction of the Kiawah Island Parkway/Bike Path improvements. The monies shall be used to pay for consulting services which will determine alignment and estimated costs for the proposed Sea Island Greenway. Burnaford wrapped up the discussion by pointing out that the name “Greenway” is for a reason. The 300 foot wide, ten

September 18, 2009 mile stretch of limited access, two-lane road will be in a park-like setting with possible bike and equestrian paths. Mayor Wert concurred, pointing out that, “for the first time in ten years, we’ll have facts. That’s all we’ve been asking for these many years. It may be that the decision is not to build the Greenway; we don’t know. We just want a final decision to see if it would help reduce traffic.” The resolution as read by Councilman Orban was approved unanimously. Environmental report Councilman McKeown joked that he had been promoted recently; from “Czar of Garbage” to “Magnet of Garbage” as per an email from Town administrative assistant Stephanie Braswell. Along those same lines, McKeown noted that the Solid Waste and Recycling Committee which he is heading up had sent out a “straw man proposal” for a new Ordinance that will hopefully satisfy both the Regimes and the Town. The committee’s goal is to have a satisfactory Ordinance receive its first reading in October and its second in November so that everything will be ready for the new collection program by January 1. “Anyone who wants to join the committee is welcome,” said McKeown.

35 gallon recycling bin.

Arts Council report Councilman Lipuma reminded everyone of the Fred Moyer Jazz Arts Trio concert on September 30, 7:30pm, at the Church of Our Saviour. “This is an early start to our Arts season,” said Lipuma, “but his availability schedule was just too good to pass up.” This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available at Town Hall.

begin on Monday, September 28. Pickups will be every Monday. If you have any questions, you can reach Town Hall at 768-9166. Lastly, Rucker stated that she is working on achieving an extra 250 points for the Town through their building rating system. If the points are received, property owners in the Town could potentially reduce their insurance by up to 5%. The onsite review for the Town will take place between September 21 and 23. Mayor’s report Mayor Wert was pleased to announce that he spoke with Barbara Neil of the OCRM (Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management) about the setback lines that “had us so agitated” a while back. Wert stated that Neil promised the Town an answer on the setback lines in the next two weeks. “At least we’ve talked to a real person,” he said. He also noted that the OCRM has recently changed their policies. They now make a decision and appeals have to be sent in after the decision is made. “It’ seems a little backwards to me, but there you have it,” he said. Wert also stated that the Town had discussed putting advertising on the Welcome to Kiawah website, but they concluded that placing ads would probably be more detrimental than helpful. Citizen’s comments Dr. Paul Roberts thanked the Council for all that they’ve done to help get the Greenway study approved. He stated that many have asked why they need this study when five others have been done already, and Roberts reminded them that in the past, all of the studies looked at the broadest of all recommendations. When the man who conducted the last study, Chris Christensen, was asked by County Council what it would cost to put a road in where the Greenway has been proposed, Christensen said that he didn’t know, they hadn’t looked into it. However, when pressed, he threw out the number “$150 million” as a guess. “This is not a tollroad, a parkway or an expressway,” said Roberts. “It’s much different than what we’ve talked about. I personally think that the people on Johns Island will best be served by something

Town Administrator’s report Tumiko Rucker noted that she has been working with Councilman Burnaford and Dr. Roberts on the Greenway project and everything is going along well. She is also working with Councilman McKeown on the recycling program, and wanted to point out a correction to a recently sent letter. The letter was meant to read that each property owner in Inlet Cove, Greenslake, Night Heron, Sparrow Pond and Ocean Woods will receive a 35 gallon recycling rollout between September 14 – 23, and collection will

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that does what we think it will do.” He reminded everyone that comments in the past have shown remarkably more people in favor of the Greenway than against it. Resident Kelly Bragg was next, thanking the Town for their help in moving one of the sea turtle nests which was positioned awkwardly behind a telephone pole on the beach between the Sanctuary and the Beach Club. “Now about 148 little turtles can get out. Thank you from the Turtle Patrol,” she said. “It was a gigundous problem and the Council helped immediately.” Mayor Wert thanked her for her kind words, and, smiling, replied that, “We respond to gigundous problems.” Wendy Kulick was the last resident to speak, asking if the several power outages that have taken place on the island recently were due to the work on the bike path. Councilman Orban replied to her question, though Council usually does not reply to citizen’s comments until the next Council meeting. He said that the power outages were due to lightning strikes, though he too had worried that the contractors had hit a power line. “Fortunately, the construction work hasn’t caused any interruptions. It’s been lightning strikes on junction boxes,” he said. Hurricane reminders Lastly, Councilman Lipuma was happy to report that the passage of the two recent hurricanes off our coast had not caused any obvious damage to the beaches, and Councilman Burnaford reminded everyone to stay alert during hurricane season. “From now until October 15 is the peak of the hurricane season,” he said, reminding everyone who either went out of town or left for the season, to make sure that they didn’t leave any loose objects in the backyard and to be sure that everything in and around their house is properly secured. The hurricane preparation group for the Town will be updating citizens on a regular basis, “but I can tell you where they go for their information,” said Burnaford. “Just go to nhc.noaa.gov to get all you want on hurricane paths, timing, etc.” The next meeting of the Kiawah Town Council will be October 6, 2009, at 2pm at the Town Hall.

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September 18, 2009

Candidates announced for Seabrook Island Town Council

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he names are in and the race for the Seabrook Island Town Council, Utility Commissioner and Mayor has begun. With four spots to fill on Town Council and five new candidates along with two incumbents in the running, the competition will be close. However, the position of Mayor is uncontested, with only Mayor Pro Tem William Holtz on the ballot. Though Holtz doesn’t have too much of a fight on his hands, he still wants the residents of Seabrook Island to know that his platform is similar to that of the current Council structure. “I basically want to continue the policies employed by Mayor McNulty and the present Council,” said Holtz. “The Town is financially stable and I want to keep it that way.” Holtz’s long range goals include continuing to work on the safety on the Johns Island roads, and becoming more involved with the issue of wind and hail insurance on the island. In particular, he would like the Town to become more involved with the

Wind and Hail Insurance Group, “If the Committee would have us,” said Holtz. Two candidates are up for the position of Utility Commissioner: Charles L. Measter and incumbent Leo Vancini. Though Measter could not be reached before this article went to print, Vancini pointed out that he has been with the Utility Commission since its inception. “[My] first major community involvement was my appointment to a ten member Utility Acquisition Feasibility Committee by the Mayor in 1994,” wrote Vancini. “From my professional background in investment banking, I played a key role in the evaluation of the Utility; structuring and negotiating the acquisition from Heater Of Seabrook, and the subsequent sourcing of $ 6.0 million by the Town to complete the acquisition.” Because of his past experience, Vancini was asked to complete the unexpired term of late Commissioner Robert Delaney in 2007.

“My unique background and exposure to the Commission and the Utility qualifies me to continue to serve in the above mentioned capacity for another term,” Vancini stated. Town Council candidates include Terrence J. Ahern, incumbent G. Jerry Cummin, Frank J. Farfone, Henry W. Hobson III, Samuel L. Reed and incumbent Robert M. Savin. Incumbent Cummin is very clear about his platform. “I have experience, “he said. “From 2004 to 2008, I served on the External Affairs Committee and was the chair of that Committee from 2007 to 2008. I served on the Planning Commission in 2009 and I have worked with the Mayor and Council on updating the emergency planning for the island.” A project which, he noted, is quite complicated and involves a lot of extra work hours. “I hope to continue working on it if reelected,” said Cummin. His long term goals include maintaining

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the strong financial position of the Town and supporting improvements to the Johns Island roads, a process which he as been an active part of for the last few years. As for the future of the Town, “I am always looking for ways to improve life for everyone on Seabrook Island,” said Cummin. “Anything we [the Council] do, we do for all of the citizens.” Candidate Frank Farfone sees Seabrook Island as being “on the brink of a new era, with state-of-the-art amenities and an economy that is showing signs of recovery.” Farfone believes that this calls for a new approach to the Town’s relationship with the community-at-large. “I would hope to make an impact on our community by working to bring a cooperative effort with major entities on our island, the POA and the Club,” Farfone writes. And that cooperative effort extends to improving relationships with Charleston County and other governmental bodies. Farfone believes his past experience in U.S. and international policy making, as well as his time at the White House, make him uniquely qualified to serve on the Town Council. Candidate Henry Hobson believes he could be an assent to the Town Council, bringing with him past experience as a Councilman for a small community in a suburb of Houston, Texas. “As a politically conservative individual, and one who has had experience in the world of finance as a banker while in the working population, I bring a certain amount of knowledge and experience to the table,” Hobson writes. He feels that, as an active part of the Town government, he could assist in the improvement of the quality of life on Seabrook, particularly through finding the answers to questions such as the expansion of bike paths, emergency weather warning systems and the  preservation of the natural resources of the island’s beaches and waterways. “I’m running because my wife and I are very happy with Seabrook Island and we love living here,” said candidate Samuel Reed. In fact, Reed has a long standing interest in government, going back to his service as an elected representative on the school board in Indiana. He currently serves as the president of the Property Owner’s Association on Seabrook. “My primary interest is for the Town, property owners and the Club to work in a cooperative way and to work with elected officials in neighboring areas,” said Reed. By working with local communities, as well as the City and County of Charleston, Reed hopes to help as any people as he possibly can. “Cooperation is my long term goal,” he said, “as well as to maintain the Town’s fiscal responsibility.” Neither Councilman Robert Savin nor Terrence Ahern could be reached before publication deadline. Please look for updated commentary in the next issue of The Island Connection. Seabrook Island elections will be held on November 3, 2009.

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September 18, 2009

Op-ed

Dear Kiawah and Seabrook residents: The image of Kiawah would be affected by the development of Captain Sam’s Spit. Kiawah is considered to be a place where homeowners have a true sense of the unspoiled beauty of their island. By allowing the development of Captain Sam’s Spit, that rare attribute would be permanently marred and the result would have a negative impact on property value. Taken as a whole, this development would be an eyesore. Any edifice is going to soar above the meager vegetation, making the Spit look more like Miami Beach than Kiawah. Now is the time to fish or cut bait. We (Friends of the Kiawah River) need some money to pay our lawyers who have presented our case for preserving the Spit.

Having sat through the bulk of the case some five days, I felt very good about the presentation by our two lawyers. However, the judge rules this case will go to the Supreme Court. The developers hope and pray that we won’t have the funds to participate. It was brought out in court that Kiawah Development Partners had a fifty (yes, fifty) million dollar mortgage on the Spit. They are going to be present at the Supreme Court. By doing nothing, you support the development. Your donation to the cause could preserve the look of Kiawah forever. Sincerely, Sidi Limehouse, President of the Friends of the Kiawah River For more information or to make a donation, please visit www.kiawahriver.org. Captain Sam’s Spit.

Our Lady of Mercy hosts 16th annual golf benefit

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he OLM Community Outreach Benefit Golf Tournament, which has been held each year since 1993, raises an outstanding amount of financial support for the Outreach’s services. All tournament proceeds are applied directly to the Outreach’s many programs. This year’s tournament will be held on September 30, 2009, at the magnificent Golf Club at Briar’s Creek. Named the “Best New Private Course of 2002” by Golf Digest, and designed by internationally renown golf course architect Rees Jones, the Golf Club at Briar’s Creek offers a truly special environment for those who share a love for the game of golf. A 7,117 yard test, the Golf Club at Briar’s Creek is proud to be the first course in the state of South Carolina to be certified by the Audubon Signature Cooperative Sanctuary Program, allowing the golfer to enjoy a round in this natural wildlife setting that has become a signature to the Club. The Golf Committee invites island residents and/or their companies to participate as a sponsor in this year’s event. Sponsorship opportunities range from $1,000 to $10,000 and include various levels of recognition, from a sign at one of the holes to eight player positions, eight dinner guest, sign recognition at a hole and marketing on the tee box at the sponsored hole.

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John Aubrey won a Saturn car for his “ hole in one” during the 2008 tournament.

Registration for the competition begins at 11:30am, followed by lunch, practice and pre-tournament activities. The shotgun start is at 1pm and the dinner and awards ceremony will be held at 6pm. The format for this year’s competition will be Captain’s Choice, four player teams. Entry fees are $350 and include golf fees, lunch, refreshments and dinner at the Clubhouse. All entries are requested by September 21, 2009. For more information or to register, call Our Lady of Mercy Outreach at 559-4109 or visit www.olmoutreach.org.

September 18, 2009

O

Beach Polo comes to Kiawah

n September 20, 2009, the beaches of Kiawah Island will once again resound with the steady drum of horses hooves as the Town of Kiawah, the Kiawah Island Community Association and the Kiawah Island Club welcome the island’s first Polo match. Although the Great Kiawah Island Horse Race was held at various times between 1976 and 1984, the amateur and professional competitions ended in 1984 when the Kuwaiti-owned Kiawah Island Company decided to discontinue the races. “They weren’t really that impressive,” said Betty Stringfellow, an island native and noted Johns Island historian, in regard to the Great Races. “The competitors would draw a line in the sand and half the time, the riders couldn’t get their horses to stand behind it, let alone start when they were supposed to.” However, horses were an important part of island life until recently. “By 1900, nearly every landowner, black or white, had a gaited horse and a gig,” Stringfellow recalled. “When they met in the roads, a race was on. The greatest gift you could give a child was a colt from one of these horses.” However, the thoroughbreds disappeared from the islands for a time, to be replaced by the reliable, tireless Marsh Tackys –

7

Divot stampers welcome!

the smallish, native horses which were excellent for plowing the fields, riding and pulling carriages. It wasn’t until the turn of the century that thoroughbred horses returned to the islands, mainly for pleasure riding. Stingfellow fondly recalls riding her Marsh Tacky along the shores of Seabrook Island during World War II, though it wasn’t exactly allowed. A mounted unit of 15 armed soldiers was constantly on patrol of the beaches, keeping an eye out for German U-boats. When she rode her horse to the shore for a gallop, the soldiers would call out, “It’s only Betty!” so the young girl wouldn’t be mistaken for an enemy soldier. The Polo competition, however, will be unique as well as retrospective. Native Charlestonian and S.C. Representative Chip Limehouse, who says he is coming out of retirements just for this event, will be joined by his brothers Brad (who plays professionally) and Brien as one of the exhibition’s two competing teams. The trio’s father, State Transportation Secretary Buck Limehouse, will serve as the match’s announcer.  A reception and game celebration will be held at the Beach Club both before and after the competition. The match itself,

which will be held from 3 – 5pm, is open to Kiawah Island residents, but tickets to the Polo Party are $60 each. The party will begin with an opening reception at 2pm, followed by a showing of the Polo ponies. After the competition, the party continues from 5 – 8:30pm with champagne, heavy

hors d’oeuvres and music by the East Coast Party Band. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 768-9194 or email Roshonda.Brown@ kica.us   Mastercard, Visa, personal check, and cash will be accepted.

Betty Strinfellow on her Marsh Tacky on Seabrook Island.

www.islandconnectionnews.com

8

September 18, 2009

Friday, September 18

Saturday, September 19

Tickets for Charleston’s First Annual Museum Mile Weekend Now on Sale  The cultural sites along Charleston’s Museum Mile have come together to launch Museum Mile Weekend on September 26 and 27, 2009.  Along and around the one-mile section of Meeting Street, visitors can discover six museums, five nationally important historic houses, four scenic parks and a Revolutionary War powder magazine. Passes are $20 for adults and $10 for children. For more info, visit www. charlestonmuseummile.org or call the Charleston Visitor’s Center at 722-2996 x235.

38th Annual Scottish Highland Games From 9am to 5pm at Boone Hall Plantation. Competitions include heavy Scottish athletics, piping and drumming, Highland dancing, wrestling, Border Collie demonstrations, children’s games, Scottish merchandise, food and more. See charlestonscots.org for details and visit www.boonehallplantation.com to purchase tickets, or call 884-4371. Jane Austen Society meeting The S.C. Region of the Jane Austen Society begins it’s 16th year today  with a roundtable discussion of the novels Jane Austen (and her characters) read.

Ta k e a p a g e Johns Island Regional Library 3531 Maybank Highway 559-1945 Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10 – 8 Friday & Saturday: 10 – 6 Sunday: 2 – 5

Monday, October 19 from 6 – 8pm *Files and Folders: File Organization and Management (adults/young adults) Tuesday, October 20 from 10am – 12 noon

Wee Reads (under 24 months with adult) Monday, September 21 and 28 & October 5, 12, 19 and 26 at 10:30am

*Access Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, October 26 from 5:30 – 8pm

Time for Twos (2–3 years old with adult) Tuesday, September 22 and 29 & October 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 10:30am Preschool Storytime (3–6 years) Wednesday, September 23 and 30 & October 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 10:30am Saturday Family Storytime (all ages) Saturday, September 19 and 26 & October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 at 11:00am Keyboard Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, September 21 from 6 – 8pm PowerPoint Basics (adults/young adults) Tuesday, September 22 from 10am – 12 Noon Internet Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, September 28 from 6 – 8pm Publisher: Create a Calendar for the School Year (adults/young adults) Tuesday, September 29 from 10am – 12 Noon *Word Basics (adults/young adults) Monday, October 5 from 6 – 8pm *Computer Basics (adults/young adults) Tuesday, October 6 from 10am – 12 noon *Word: Beyond the Basics (adults/ young adults) Monday, October 12 from 6 – 8pm *Keyboard Basics (adults/young adults) Tuesday, October 13 from 10am – 12 noon *Excel Basics (adults/young adults)

*Internet Basics (adults/young adults) Tuesday, October 27 from 10am – 12 noon *All computer classes are free. For more information please call 559-1945 and ask for the Reference Department. Class space is available for 8 participants per session. Big Trucks and More! (all ages) Saturday, September 19 at 2pm Free Legal Clinic: Wills, Estates & Probate (adults) Thursday, September 24 at 6pm MOJA Festival (all ages) Thursday, October 1 - Sunday, October 4 Toddler Time Fall Session (0 – 3 years) Thursday, September 24 & October 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 4pm Club Anime! (ages 12-19) Saturday, October 3 from 3 - 4:30pm and Tuesday, October 13 from 4 5:30pm

Island Connec

September 18 Please join us at 1:30 at the Berkeley Electric Bldg., 3351 Maybank Hwy., Johns Island. For more information, call 7686453. Kiawah Beach and River Sweep Pull out you old clothes and grubby sneakers, it’s time for the annual Beach/ River Sweep on Kiawah! The group will meet at 8:30am at Night Heron Park and will sweep the beach front and river side of Kiawah until 12 noon. The sweep is organized by the SC Sea Grant Consortium. Gloves, bags and light refreshments will be provided. To volunteer, email Brad Schmoll at bradleyschmoll@aol. com or call the Heron Park Nature Center at 768-6001. CATR Volunteer Training Come join us from 10am-12pm for volunteer training at Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding. You will learn about our program and why we do what we do, plus get to spend some time with some of our horses. No horse experience necessary, just a love for children and the great outdoors!  Call the office at 559-6040 for details.

Sunday, September 20 Polo comes to Kiawah Regional polo athletes will square-off on the sand from 3 – 5pm in an exhibition at The Beach Club on Kiawah Island.  The event will kick off with a reception and end with a party at The Beach Club.  The polo game is free for Kiawah Islanders, and the Polo Party Package is  $60 per person. Proceeds will benefit the Kiawah Natural Habitat Conservancy. To purchase tickets, call 7689194 or email [email protected]. 2nd annual Charleston Peace One Day Brittlebank Park from 1-6pm, with a Music Farm show to follow at 8pm. The festival includes a number of community organizations, local musicians and artists. For more info and a list of vendors, visit www.cp1d.org or call 770-235-4660.

Conversation with the Artist: Othell Brown (all ages) Saturday, October 3 from 4:30– 5:30pm Looney Toons Tuesday! (11 years and younger) Tuesday, October 6, 13, 20 and 27 at 2pm Displays Blacksmith Display Ed Berry will display his Blacksmith Gate Latch and other assorted items. All of his ideas came from books he checked out at the library. Photography Display Maria Rapchick will exhibit her photographs of nature, wildlife, and travel scenes.

www.islandconnectionnews.com

Tuesday, September 22 First day of fall! Girl’s night out at Freshfields Village From 5 – 8pm, gather your girlfriends and head to an after-hours event at Freshfields Village for three hours of the coolest cocktails, food pairings, music, hot summer fashions with fantabulous markdowns, new fall fashions, giveaways, and fun health and beauty discoveries. Seabrook Island Art Guild (SIAG) meeting The Seabrook Island Art Guild meets on the third Tuesday of every month at the new Lake House at 7pm. The Guild also meets each Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm. If you would like to join the Guild, membership dues are $20/year. For more information, please contact Robert McBride at 768-3696 or visit www.seabrookislandartguild.com.

Wednesday, September 23 Pour House Crafters Market Selling original handmade artwork by local starving artists with live music on the deck. Every Wednesday from 4 – 8pm at The Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy. 5714343, www.charlestonpourhouse.com. St. Johns Rotary Club The St Johns Rotary Club meets regularly at 7:30am each Wednesday morning in the multipurpose room at Berkeley Electric Cooperative located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island.  For more info, contact Martha Harris at 559-6955.

Thursday, September 24 Free Legal Clinics: Wills, Estates and Probate 6pm at the John’s Island Regional Library, 3531 Maybank Highway. Presented by Charles S. Goldberg, Esq. For more info, call the library at 559-1945.

September 18, 2009

9

ction Calendar

18 - October 3 Seabrook Camera Club Dr. Carter will be presenting his photography. The Seabrook Island Camera Club meets on the fourth Thursday of every month at 7pm at the SIPOA Community Center. For more info, please call Judy Bailey at 768-4142.

Friday, September 25 Native American Day Explore Harmony Hall  CCPRC has recently purchased some amazing new properties that one day will become public parks. Harmony Hall’s 420 acres of maritime forest, salt marsh, and mixed hardwoods in Meggett will set the stage for an exciting walk.  A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under. 9am – 1pm. Fee: $15. Pre-registration required. For more info, call 795-4386. Mullet Hall Open Trail Ride  Bring your horse, camping gear, and supplies for two nights (September 25 – 27) of camping and trail riding on 20 miles of beautiful, wooded trails.  Full restrooms and shower facilities available.  A limited number of hookups are available for $15 per night.  Primitive camping allowed free of charge. Pre-registration required. 12pm Friday – 4pm Sunday. Meet at Mullet Hall. Fee: $35. For more info, call 795-4386.

Saturday, September 26 Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity Centennial Concert in the Park Starting at 6pm at Mayflower Court, next door to the Church (30 Race Street). Featuring Holy Trinity’s Centennial Choir performing Liturgical music as well as secular selections in both Greek and English. Ann Caldwell and the Magnolia Singers will perform Spirituals. Tickets are $15 for adults and $3 for children and students under 17. To purchase, call 5572063. 

Charleston Green Fair Greenflix Green Fair festivities now include a cinematic experience for the mind and body. Charleston Green Fair Greenflix has been added to the festival program and will take place at 7:30 pm at The Visitors Center Bus Terminal. Affordable ticketing is available now at www.charlestongreenfair. com $8 in advance and $6 for students. Group discounts are also available.

Tuesday, September 29 Seabrook Island Art Guild (SIAG) meeting The Seabrook Island Art Guild meets on the third Tuesday of every month at the new Lake House at 7pm. The Guild also meets each Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm. If you would like to join the Guild, membership dues are $20/year. For more information, please contact Robert McBride at 768-3696 or visit www.seabrookislandartguild.com.

Wednesday, September 30 Frederick Moyer Jazz Arts Trio Frederick Moyer returns to Kiawah for the first performance of the Kiawah Arts Council season with his jazz group, the Jazz Arts Trio. You won’t want to miss their jazz transcriptions of the music made famous by the late great Oscar Peterson, Vince Guaraldi, Bill Evans, Erroll Garner and Herbie Hancock, among others. The show starts at 7:30pm at the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour and is presented by the Town of Kiawah Island Arts Council. Complimentary tickets are available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning September 16.  For more info, call 7689166.

4343, www.charlestonpourhouse.com.

Guest Services at 768-6491.

Thursday, October 1

Saturday, October 3

Moja Arts Festival presents: CSO Spiritual Ensemble Directed by Nathan L. Nelson, Spiritual Classics II will chronicle spirituals significance to the South Carolina Lowcountry. Starting at 6pm at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 67 Anson Street, downtown Charleston. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Gaillard Auditorium and at the church one hour before the performance.

Moja Arts Festival presents: CSO Gospel Choir  African-American Sacred Songs III will highlight the evolution of gospel music. Saint Matthews Church, 405 King Street, downtown Charleston. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Gaillard Auditorium ticket office or at the church one hour before the performance.

Friday, October 2 Seabrook brown and white pickup day Items should be placed curbside by 7:30am. Brown goods include mattresses, couches, chairs, box springs, tables, televisions, and miscellaneous non-metal items.  White goods include refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, dishwashers, freezers, microwave ovens, metal chairs, and metal fencing. Special wastes including batteries, fuels, paints, paint thinner, fluorescent bulbs, insecticides, fertilizers, motor oil and tires may be taken to the SIPOA Maintenance Facility on October 2, 2009 from 7:30am – 3pm. Please contact John Wells at 768.0061 if you have any questions. Freshfields Fall Festival Oyster Roast & Music on the Green From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Green. Join us for an Oyster Roast provided by Lowcountry Eats and music by The Coppertones. For more information call

St. Johns Rotary Club See Wednesday, September 23. Pour House Crafters Market Selling original handmade artwork by local starving artists with live music on the deck. Every Wednesday from 4 – 8pm at The Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy. 571-

www.islandconnectionnews.com

Duda Lucena Trio Starting at 7:30pm at the Turtle Point Clubhouse, enjoy music by Duda Lucena, a singer and composer whose performances are centered upon Brazilian bossa nova, baião and samba but also incorporate the African roots of the sophisticated jazz and blues movement.  The trio will also feature Quentin Baxter on the drums, Kevin Hamilton on bass and Gerald Gregory on the keyboard.   This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available at Town Hall starting September 24. For more info, call 768-9166. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island Arts Council. Legare Farms Multi-Family Yard Sale The Yard Sale will correspond with the opening day of Legare Farms’ Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze and will run from 8 am - 12 noon. The pumpkin patch and corn maze will also open at 8am, but hayrides will not start until 11am. For more info, call Legare Farms at 559-0788 or e-mail [email protected].

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September 18, 2009

Daily Discoveries: Hurricanes and wildlife, part 1

“If birds fly low – expect rain and a blow.” It is easier for birds to fly at higher altitudes when the air pressure is high. If the air pressure is low, indicating bad weather, birds can’t fly as high because the air is less dense. For our area, swallows seem be the best indicator that the air pressure is dropping.

“Trout jump high when a rain is nigh.” Trapped gases at the bottom of a lake or pond will sometimes be released as a result of low air pressure. In turn, microscopic organisms hidden in the plant debris are dispersed, stimulating small fish to start feeding which then causes larger fish to feed on them. A ‘feeding frenzy’ may develop, causing the fish to become more active and jump. Jumping mullet are certainly an exception to this saying; they seem to jump out of the water for the fun of it! Even without a rhyme, simple observation of animal behavior gives us ‘senseless’ humans a clue … if we’re

paying attention. Most animals are vulnerable to environmental changes that humans often can’t detect. Crows have been known to call more frequently with falling pressure. Deer sometimes react to wind and air pressure by seeking shelter. Rabbits, squirrels, and rattlesnakes may feed more before a storm so they can seek shelter. Cicadas may be silent when rain is approaching, since they can’t vibrate their wings when the humidity is very high. Flying insects stay closer to the ground and are more active when the air pressure drops, creating a swarming effect before it rains. Even more interesting, the chirping of a cricket has been shown to provide a close indication of air temperature. By counting the number of cricket chirps in a 14-second period and adding 40, the total will equal the air temperature to within one degree 75 percent of the time. For those unable to venture outdoors,

there are other ways to gauge the chances of inclement weather in the near future by personal observation. The higher the humidity, the better sound travels. Not too long ago, it was common for people to estimate the likelihood of rain by the clarity with which they heard church bells sound. A drop in barometric pressure may also bring pain or pressure to areas of the body affected by joint diseases, bad teeth, recently healed broken bones, or corns and bunions. If all this sounds too archaic, keep in mind that the majority of the world still lives without our modern-day technology. Being ‘in tune’ to the environment isn’t just for the far out ‘sustainability hippies’. Farmer’s rhymes are repeated and sailor’s yarns are sung even in today’s day-in-age. Our islands still have their share of old farmers and sailors. Seek them out for good conversation. The words “Back in the day…” should get you off to a good start. Stay tuned for Part two of “Hurricanes and Wildlife”, where we’ll seek to answer the following questions: How do hurricanes affect our native wildlife? What does our wildlife do when a storm hits? About the Author: Jennifer is a Naturalist with the Kiawah Island Nature Program. To contact her with comments or personal stories, email her at Jennifer_Barbour@ kiawahresort.com. * Information from articles by Craig Tufts & The National Wildlife Federation

Getting your pets storm-ready By Emily Laurie, Pet Helpers

W

hile preparing for a hurricane to hit the Lowcountry, Pet Helpers is asking all pet owners to make sure they have a plan for their pets. Prepare a list of pet-friendly hotels, boarding facilities and veterinarians who could shelter animals in an emergency. Ask friends, relatives, or others outside the affected area whether they could shelter your animals. Be sure to assemble a portable pet disaster supplies kit, including medications, medical

Photo by Davis Manier

T

he weather technology used today to record patterns, monitor conditions, and aid in weather prediction is astounding. As a result, we have the ability to be more prepared for large storms and hurricanes well before they hit. I wonder what would happen if our access to this technology was severed for a week or two. How would we cope with our ever-changing weather? How did people know foul weather was coming before dramatic newscasters on television told them or access to current weather radars were available online? The answer is simple: they were more in tune with their environment. Many still remember the old farmer’s rhymes and sailor’s yarns used to predict the weather. In addition to the surveillance of clouds and trees, several pertain to the observation of the surrounding wildlife. Here are two examples of rhymes used to detect weather based on the action of wildlife:

By Jennifer Barbour

www.islandconnectionnews.com

records, leashes, current photos, food and water. Red Cross Disaster shelters cannot accept pets because of the states’ health and safety regulations and other considerations. Service animals that assist people with disabilities are the only animals allowed in Red Cross shelters. Pet Helpers is an Adoption Center. They are not a boarding facility. A Charleston Emergency / Disaster Animal Shelter will be located at the North Charleston Coliseum. The disaster shelter should be considered as a LAST RESORT. Owners will be required to bring supplies for themselves and their pets. Please note, only one family member per household of pets will be allowed to stay. All other family members will be required to go to a shelter for people. In case of an emergency, please contact animal control at 202-1700 or your local police. For more hurricane preparation tips, visit www.pethelpers.org.

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September 18, 2009

Activities at Night Heron Park PHOTOS BY Doug Reynolds

2009 Pet Expo comes to Kiawah

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By Jessica Richardson

ets, bring your owners to Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island for the Dogtoberfest pet expo on Saturday, October 3, from 10am to 3pm. The expo is open to all pet lovers in the Charleston area (just ask for a pass at the Kiawah Island main gate) and will feature: • Meet-and-greets with local rescue groups • Presentations/demonstrations on training, nutrition and health • Info on choosing the right breed for your lifestyle • Adoption applications and pre-screening (on-site adoptions are not permitted due to screening requirements) • Music by performer Dave Berry • Training tips from dog trainer John Bercik • On-site vendors and concessions • A doggie costume contest, jump castle, games • Great prizes! Advance raffle tickets are on sale at the KICA administrative offices (23 Beachwalker Drive) and the Sandcastle (1 Shipwatch Road), and will be on sale at the event.  You need not be present to win. “Four million sheltered dogs and cats are euthanized annually, while many more are literally dumped because their owners have made a poor breed choice or neglected their training,” says Tammy

McAdory, rescue supporter and executive director of the Kiawah Island Community Association. “That’s where the rescue groups play a vital role” she continues. “They take in abandoned pets, provide much-needed medical care, evaluate temperaments, offer a safe environment for training and actively search for permanent homes. You cannot imagine a day in the life of a rescue coordinator; it’s a 24/7 labor of love, from handling medical emergencies to washing mountains of bedding.” Unfortunately, the economy has direly affected rescue organizations. Grants and donations have seen significant downturn. Distraught owners faced with job loss and pay cuts have been forced to turn their beloved pets into rescues and shelters. In order to continue their good work, rescue groups need public support and loving “forever homes” for their animals. Don’t miss this chance to spend a day at the park while learning more about your pet and helping other pets in need. All proceeds will be donated to help these special animals who give so much and ask so little. The Kiawah Island Community Association is a not-for-profit organization providing services to the Kiawah community. For additional information, to make a donation, or to become a Pet Expo Paw Partner, contact Jessica Richardson at 768-3875 or via e-mail at jessica. [email protected].

FRIDAY, September 18 Kamp Kiawah: Yippie – Hippie – Skippie: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Mosaic Mania: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Basketball: 2pm – 3pm Kamp Kiawah KNO: Sanctuary Splash Bash: 5pm- 8pm; Ages 5-11 SATURDAY, September 19 Kamp Kiawah: Sunken Treasure : 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Holiday Ornament Making: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Soccer: 2pm – 3pm Wickets & Wine (Oct. 3 – Nov. 28): 3:30pm – 5pm Kamp Kiawah KNO: Sanctuary Splash Bash: 5pm - 8pm; Ages 5-11

Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Mosaic Mania: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Basketball: 2pm – 3pm Kamp Kiawah KNO: Sanctuary Splash Bash: 5pm- 8pm; Ages 5-11 SATURDAY, September 26 Kamp Kiawah: Sunken Treasure : 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Holiday Ornament Making: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Soccer: 2pm – 3pm Wickets & Wine (Oct. 3 – Nov. 28): 3:30pm – 5pm Kamp Kiawah KNO: Sanctuary Splash Bash: 5pm - 8pm; Ages 5-11 SUNDAY, September 27 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Pickup Games: Volleyball: 2pm – 3pm

SUNDAY, September 20 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Pickup Games: Volleyball: 2pm – 3pm

MONDAY, September 28 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Pickup Games: Basketball: 2pm – 3pm

MONDAY, September 21st Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Pickup Games: Basketball: 2pm – 3pm

TUESDAY, September 30 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Pickup Games: Volleyball: 2pm – 3pm

TUESDAY, September 22 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Pickup Games: Volleyball: 2pm – 3pm WEDNESDAY, September 23 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Stepping Stones: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Soccer: 2pm – 3pm THURSDAY, September 24 Kamp Kiawah: Biggie Size: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Tye Dye: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Volleyball: 2pm – 3pm FRIDAY, September 25 Kamp Kiawah: Yippie – Hippie – Skippie: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm

www.islandconnectionnews.com

WEDNESDAY, September 31 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Stepping Stones: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Soccer: 2pm – 3pm THURSDAY, October 1 Kamp Kiawah: Biggie Size: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Tye Dye: 1:30pm – 2:30pm Pickup Games: Volleyball: 2pm – 3pm FRIDAY, October 2 Kamp Kiawah: Yippie – Hippie – Skippie: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages 3-11 Turtle Tracks: 8:30am – 5pm Organic Beach Bag Coloring: 8:30am – 5pm Kiawah Island Book Exchange: 8:30am – 4pm Board Games in the Park: 9am – 4pm Mosaic Mania: 1:30pm – 2:30pm

September 18, 2009

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13

Where vegetables are grown for taste, not shelf-life!

Certified South Carolina farm operated on John’s Island by Sidi Limehouse and Louise Bennett, Rosebank Farms has taken the lead for more than 20 years in growing heirloom varieties of vegetables that are grown for taste. Others, by way of comparison, grow vegetables that are shipped elsewhere, and the premium is placed on growing crops that will withstand a long shipping cycle and still look good.  As Sidi points out, “Vegetables known for taste, not for shipping, are best for our customers and for our future in such a tempestuous age.  We sell produce to some of the finest restaurants in the Charleston area – why shouldn’t you and your family enjoy the same quality and freshness?” When you join the Rosebank Farms CSA, you have the opportunity to invest in the farm.  In return, Rosebank provides you with a regular share of fresh, seasonal, and local vegetables and fruits during the three CSA seasons. Each season lasts 12 weeks, running from April through December.   CSA members may select one of two options: • Deluxe Box Delivery for members in downtown Charleston • Bag Pick-up at designated locations in downtown

Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, and Rosebank Farms. The Deluxe Box Delivery option features items packed in cooler-lined boxes that are delivered to your doorstep once a week by our delivery person.   Conciergelevel service is standard for Deluxe Box Delivery members.  Examples of this service include the option of suspending deliveries any time you’ll be away from home, and adding flowers, eggs, cheese, seafood and any of the farm’s signature Specialty foods to their weekly delivery. Members who opt for the Bag Pick-up option receive their shares in recyclable bags delivered to the site where members pick them up. Shares come in three sizes (prices are for a 12-week season): Small (fresh produce for 1-2 people, ideal for a couple) $360 Deluxe Box $165 Bag pick-up Medium (enough produce for a small family of 3-4) $480 for Deluxe Box $255 for Bag pick-up Large (plenty of fresh produce for a large family) $600 for Deluxe Box $345 for Bag pick-up

Pan Roasted Corn & Tomato Salad From Rosebank Farms

Ingredients: ¼-lb. bacon, chopped 1 small red onion, chopped 4-6 ears corn, stripped of their kernels     (2-3 cups) Juice of 1 lime, or more to taste 2 c. cored and chopped tomatoes 1 med. ripe avocado, pitted, peeled and chopped 2 small fresh chilies, seeded and minced Salt and black pepper ½ c. chopped fresh cilantro, more or less

Directions: Cook bacon in a large skillet over med-high meat until it begins to render fat; add onion and cook until just softened, about 5 minutes, then add corn.  Continue cooking, stirring pan occasionally, until corn begins to brown a bit, about 5 more minutes; remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.  Drain fat if you wish. Put lime juice in a large bowl and add bacon-corn mixture; then toss with remaining ingredients.  Season to taste and serve warm or at room temperature.     4 servings

Join the Rosebank Farms CSA and pick your bag up at the farm! Payment may be made via check, credit card or PayPal. For further information go to www.rosebankfarms.com/CSA or email us, [email protected].

 PetsPetofHelpers the Week

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Bailey -  Hi I am a two year old female with long hair. I am as soft and sweet as I am beautiful. I am a quiet low-key kitty who will not rock the boat. So if you are looking for a kitty to lie on your keyboard or chill on the couch with you, I am the cat for you. Come check me out in my condo on Rainbow Row.

TRAVIS: I’m a 2 year old male Shepherd mix. I was found by a runner in the woods and was sadly down to skin and bones. I am a very sweet boy, and I know how to sit and look at you on command. I’m also a leaner...I’ll use your leg to lean on while you give me the good petting I deserve. I am heartworm positive and in treatment, so I’ll need to be fostered first - but when it’s done...I’m yours for life! Adoption fees include spay, neuter, vaccinations, testing, and microchip ID Pet Helpers Low Cost SpayNeuter Clinic 302-0556, call for appointment.

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Pet Helpers is located at 1447 Folly Road Hours: Mon. – Fri. from 11am – 6pm Sat from 11am - 5pm. Closed: Sundays and Holidays. For more information, please call 843-795-1110, or visit www. pethelpers.org

The following police reports were provided by the Charleston County Police Department: August 12, 2009: (Kiawah) An officer was contacted by the victim in reference to Subject 1 harrassing her by phone and in person. The victim states that Subject 1 and Subject 2 were having an affair in the past and that Subject 1 had been phoning her residence repeatedly for the past several months looking to speak with Subject 2. On July 21, 2009, Subject 2 entered rehab and Subject 1 has continued to call and has stopped in front of the victim’s residence when driving by, and knows that Subject 2 is not there. The victim does not answer the phone when Subject 1 calls and does not approach Subject 1 when she stops in front of her residence. The victim states that Subject 1 calls at least twice daily and will stop in front of the residence up to three times a day. The victim also states that in April of this year, she told Subject 1 not to call or come by the residence anymore. The officer contacted Subject 1 and she denies calling the victim at any time or stopping in front of her residence. Subject 1 confirmed having a relationship with Subject 2 and states that she has been out of town the last two weeks and that the victim is lying and trying to scare her away from Subject 2, but did state that if the victim was willing to drop this matter, she would cease all contact with Subject 2. The officer advised the victim to get a phone log and to take pictures if

Police Blotter

Subject 1 stops in front of her residence again. August 24, 2009: (Kiawah) An officer spoke with the victim, who stated that on August 15 at 2pm, she was assaulted by the Subject. The victim claimed that when she arrived at work, she advised the subject that she had just received a traffic citation. The victim claimed that at that time, for unknown reasons, the subject struck her twice across the face with an open hand. The victim claimed at that point that she quit her job. The victim requested this report in order to initiate civil actions against the Kiawah Island Beach Club.

August 28, 2009: (Seabrook) Around 1pm, an officer responded to 1900 Seabrook Island Parkway and met with the complainant, who advised that she had discovered that an unknown person used an unknown object to damage the ATM machine. The complainant advised that it appeared as if someone’s bank card got caught in the machine and the unknown person(s) attempted to get the card back. The officer took photos of the ATM machine and will place the photos into evidence. The officer also dusted for prints, but negative on any evidence being obtained. The complainant stated that the ATM has a camera, but she was not able to gain access. September 2, 2009: (Kiawah) The victim arrived on the beach behind his residence at approximately 2:30pm.

Shortly after, he left his green tote bag unattended, and went for a walk for about 30 minutes. When he returned, nothing appeared to be disturbed. When returning to his residence, he noticed his wallet and keys were missing from the bag. These items were under a large camera which was not taken. September 6, 2009: (Kiawah) While on patrol of Kiawah, a deputy observed a vehicle in the maintenance area of the River Course. The vehicle was parked in front of the gas pumps with the headlights on. As the officer approached the vehicle, he did not observe anyone around. However, the officer found the suspect crouched down near the fuel door of the vehicle, pumping gasoline. At first, the suspect stated that he did not speak English, but was able to say enough that he had permission from his boss. The suspect was detained and further inspection of the vehicle revealed several five gallon gas cans in the bed of the truck. Near the pumps was a control panel that had a key in the unlocking system, allowing the suspect to pump the gas. Inside the cab of the truck were River Course uniforms. The officer checked with the business and was advised that no one had permission to fill any personal vehicles and that no one should be at the facility after dark. A warrants check was conducted and the suspect had an outstanding bench warrant for an open container charge in 2005. The suspect was transported to the Charleston County Detention Center without incident. September 6, 2009: (Kiawah) An officer responded to The Sanctuary to meet with a victim. The victim stated that when he was leaving Kiawah Island, he noticed his vehicle radio was not working in his 2002 Volkswagon Jetta. When the victim was able to stop the vehicle, he checked the fuse box, but still could not get the radio working. Upon further investigation, the victim found the balance knob of the console factory radio was bent or pushed up. At this time, the victim contacted the Sanctuary to make a report. The victim further stated that when he arrived at the Sanctuary on September 5, he allowed the valet service to park his vehicle. This was at approximately 9:30pm. The victim did not return to his vehicle until September 6 at 12:30pm. The officer inspected the radio and vehicle and confirmed the damage, but did not see any further damage. The officer determined that it would take a deliberate act to push the knob upward, causing the knob to break. The officer noted that he would attempt to contact that night’s valet. September 7, 2009: (Kiawah) The victim stated that between September 4 and September 7, she has been receiving threatening text messages and phone messages from Suspect 1. The victim stated on that on September 4, she was at Suspect 1’s residence with Suspect 2 and while there, Suspects 1 and 2 got into a verbal altercation that escalated

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into Suspect 1 assaulting Suspect 2. The victim stated that she broke up the fight, and then left. The victim then said that she woke up the next morning and started to receive text messages from Suspect 1 on September 5. She received a total of 69 text messages from Suspect 1. A majority of the texts were nonsense in an attempt to take up space on her cell phone, but there were a few texts stating that Suspect 1 was going to “get her”, as well as “I’m at the gate … a guard is taking me to your place. Beware” and a phone call stating that “I’m now at the front gate coming to get you.” The officer advised the victim to obtain a copy of this report and take it to her local magistrate and talk to him/her about getting a restraining order against Suspect 1. September 8, 2009: (Kiawah) At 2:45am, an officer responded to the corner of Kiawah Island Parkway and Surfwatch Drive in reference to a single vehicle accident with the vehicle on fire. While en route, the officer was notified that the passenger of the vehicle was at the main security gate. The officer met with the subject, who stated that he was the passenger and walked to the gate from the accident. The subject stated that he did not know how the accident happened because he wasn’t driving. The officer observed him bleeding from a laceration on his nose. EMS was already on the scene and tending to the subject. The subject was uncooperative, but stated that the driver of the vehicle fled the scene of the accident at the same time he did, but fled in an opposite direction (deeper onto the island). The officer asked the subject who the driver was, to which he responded only with a first name. The subject was transported to MUSC. In the meantime, the officer arrived at the accident scene and observed the vehicle to be completely burned. Fire was on the scene and had extinguished the flames. The officer was unable to locate any identifying features or numbers on the vehicle. The license plate was completely destroyed, and the doors had been melted off along with all the VIN markings. The area was searched for the driver, but they were unable to locate him. The officer later attempted to get more information on the driver from the passenger, but the subject was again uncooperative and would not provide any further information, except to say that he, the subject, had been working at King Street Grille before the incident occurred. When the officer pointed out that neither subject was in trouble, they just wanted to make sure the driver was okay, the passenger stated, “What part of ‘I’m not talking to you anymore’ do you not understand?” September 9, 2009: (Kiawah) A complainant contacted the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office about a missing New Jersey driver’s license. The man believes that he misplaced it at Freshfields around 8pm, and asked to have a report taken for documentation.

September 18, 2009

15

Do you know your charleston

The day He arrived

I

By David Farrow

awoke that September morning to sunshine and a pleasant breeze. My new bride was off to work and after putting everything in ship shape, I sat in my living room and was cursing at Phil Donehue when the phone rang Charleston Place was calling! After being in business for two years, Charleston Place was calling me to give a tour! Of course, it was cruel joke. Anybody with any sense was beating tracks up I-26. Still, I was at the Market and people everywhere were haplessly sandbagging their stores. I decided to ride my bike down High Battery. It was low tide, but the water level was higher than high tide on a harvest moon. It was at that point that I knew things might not turn out so well, after all. One has to remember that the last hurricane that hit Charleston dead on was Gracie thirty years before. It turned out that Gracie was an ill-tempered child; Hugo was a psychotic teenager with an automatic weapon. No one knew this at that particular point. As I had spent the two days before boarding up windows and all the other proper stuff I was to do, the rest of my day was spent looking for coverage of the storm. I recall watching Perry Mason on WTAT, which at that point had no news department. David Farrow.

Bob Waters came on with a graphic and explained that we were to be hit dead on. Well, I’d been through Gracie when I was six, so-- what fun. Finally, at 4pm if I remember correctly, Mayor Riley came on and told people that it was too late to leave. I don’t remember exactly the text of the speech, but I do remember his last words, “May God have mercy on your soul.” I thought to myself, this might be a tad more serious than at first blush. Well, there are certain things you can’t do a thing about, and my thought back in those days was that a man had to believe in something, and I believed I would have a drink; a very strong drink if the truth be told. My wife got home from work, and she started supper like any other night. I went across the street to my best friend’s apartment and had a couple of pops with his family. Still, even though the sky was getting funky, we fiddled while Rome burned. I went home, had supper, and decided to walk around to check things out. I was walking by the Jenkins Mikell house on the corner of Montagu and Rutledge when I saw a huge Magnolia tree bend all the way down to the ground. Hmmm ... Might be time to saunter on back home. Well, we watched television as long as we could, then the transformers went out, emitting a strange feral sound which combined eerily with the green light seeping from the boiling, pitch-black sky. We had a Sony Watchman, so we continued to try to get as much information as we could.

Red-Bellied Water Snake

T

By Sarah Dargan Harper

he Red-Bellied Water Snake is indigenous to the Southeastern United States and is found in cypress swamps, ponds, and streams. I took this photo in a swampy, wooded area of Mount Pleasant. They are non-venomous and can grow to be five feet long. They are considered semi-aquatic and are often seen (or run over!) while crossing roads in the late afternoon or evening. They eat mostly amphibians and will occasionally feed on fish. Females give birth to live young in the late summer to early fall. A typical size brood ranges from 5-25 young, which are a whopping 8-12 inches long at birth. PHOTO BY: Sarah Harper

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I want to comment on the television coverage. One certain station, which I will not name, made a big deal out of how they stayed on the longest to give us unfortunate storm victims constant updates. There was really no way for anyone to really know this as most people had already lost electricity. The network feed was long gone, so we were treated to the zany antics of “Three’s Company” while all hell broke loose outside. I don’t recall seeing anything that looked faintly like a weatherman before they, too, lost power. A thought occurred to me. If this had been the Apocalypse, this is how it would end. As incoming ICBMs were on their way, we would be treated to uproarious re-runs of “Carter Country”, and somehow I found this fitting. There are some things over which we have no control. One is nuclear war. Another is a devastating hurricane. Right now as this is being written on Labor Day, 2009, the Atlantic is quiet. There are no low pressure systems lingering off Cape Verde. That’s not to say nothing will happen this year (The Beaufort hurricane of 1893 was in October). Everyone here says we are due for a hurricane. We are due for an earthquake. I would argue, not so. The odds are 50/50. We’ll either be hit, or we won’t. Make no mistake, we will get hit. It’s just another example of nature batting last. Read David Farrow’s www.thecharlestontimes.com

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