The Island Connection

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON SC PERMIT NO 437

Volume 3 Issue 3

May 29, 2009

FREE

Seabrook Beach Club celebrates grand opening

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t was a rainy start to Thursday, May 21, but that didn’t keep visitors and beach goers from strolling through and admiring Seabrook Island’s newest facility, the Beach Club, on its first full day. The Beach Club’s 5000 square feet encompass the Seabrook Shop, a combined beach supply store and gift shop; a recreation room complete with a pool table, arcade games and wall mounted flat screen TV; two swimming pools, one each for kids and adults; a circular brick patio ideal for weddings, including a small preparation facility (formerly the exercise room); and a casual restaurant located on a 180 degree open air patio with steps that lead right down to the beach.

The Seabrook Shop, which was housed in the former Beach Club, is still run by island merchant manager Nancy Jones. “We’ve changed the level of what we offer in the gift shop,” Jones said of the new facilities. “We offer quality giftware as well as beach ware. We’ve really upgraded the quality of everything (above) Seabrook Island Club general manager Caleb Elledge and executive director Joe Salvo enjoy the and we have more items coming in every deck at Pelican’s Nest. (top) The seaward facing side of the new Seabrook Island Beach Club. day.” A special feature that the shop is now offering is its own Private Label culinary experiences – from owning his southern, Asian and southwestern. He wine, which comes in Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and White own restaurant in Kentucky to working describes the food at Pelican’s Nest as in various restaurants in Washington, “casual, convenient and fast.” “We’ll Zinfandel. D.C. and Pennsylvania, to opening probably have more seafood entrees, but Pelican’s Nest, the newly reborn the Turtle Point Clubhouse on Kiawah we also serve beach favorites, such as restaurant, is proud to feature chef Randy and the Atlantic Room at the Kiawah burgers and chicken sandwiches,” said McDonald, a Johnson and Wales graduate Ocean Course. His favorite styles of food who comes from a diverse background of Opening continued on page 2 preparation are a combination of upscale

I n s id e

page 3 Captain sams

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I sl a nd

Con nection. . .

page 4 Message to Garcia

page 8 Golf in any weather

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May 29, 2009

“Permit” me to explain

From home repairs to construction, Seabrook requires building permits

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From time to time, people on the island voice concerns over the fact that their contractor has to get a permit for this or that,” said Randy Pierce, the Town Administrator for Seabrook Island. “But it’s for a very good reason that we ask them to do this.” Not only

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] Brittany Urbach Reporter [email protected] Chelsea Langan Advertising [email protected] Interns Jennifer Millar Micah Brown Evans Craddock Contributors Jennifer Barbour Chris Brooks Olivia French Lynda Fox Mary Girault Dwight S. Ives Christa Lewis SC DNR Mike Vegis Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Future deadlines: June 3 for submissions.

are Seabrook residents required to comply with Charleston County’s building codes, said Pierce, the requirements are also there for their safety. “It kills me to hear when someone on the island hires a person to do some work for them and they pay half up front, and then they never see the guy again. The whole situation could have been avoided with a quick, two minute call to Town Hall.” With any construction on the island, a resident needs to have a zoning permit from Town Hall before requesting a building permit from Charleston County. This rule doesn’t apply to simple improvements, such as the property owner choosing to Opening continued from front cover Chef McDonald. “We also have a great pizza oven, so we’ll be working on some specialty pizzas for the menu, as well.” Across the street, the Island House is well on its way. The exterior work is wrapping up and workers are moving to the interior and adding all of the details that will help make this new community building such a beautiful asset to Seabrook Island. Joe Salvo, executive director of the Seabrook Island Club, hopes to have the 30,000 square foot Island House completed by Labor Day. “In the end, we really just want to engage the whole community,” said Salvo. “These buildings were built through community effort and we feel that they reflect everything that the residents of Seabrook Island need and want in their amenities.”

three employees, that they also provide worker’s comp.” This rule allows the State to become involved if something goes wrong with the construction/renovation of a home. “But if the person isn’t bonded or licensed, the State can’t do anything,” said Peirce. “And as for the worker’s comp regulation, if a worker is injured in your home and doesn’t have worker’s comp, then you, the homeowner, are liable.” Pierce also noted that the Town has hired a new code enforcement officer, Maurice Glunt, who is a former building code inspector for Charleston County. “He knows most of the contractors and knows what to expect on a jobsite,” said Peirce. Glunt has the ability to write citations, but his purpose is simply to make sure that everything is being done in compliance with the law. If you have any questions about building permits or would like to check on a contractor’s licensing on the island, please call Seabrook Town Hall at 768-9121.

For more information about the Seabrook Island Club, please visit www. discoverseabrook.com.

Civic Calendar

Monday, June 1

Thursday, June 4

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

Tuesday, June 2 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, June 3 Kiawah Island Planning Commission 3pm - 5pm Town Hall Council Chambers

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paint an interior wall or lay tile, but if the property owner has hired anyone to do that job for them, that person is required at a minimum to have a business license on the island, as well as a specialty license (For specialties such as “painter” or “carpenter”). Individuals are allowed to have up to three specialty licenses each, a rule which prevents a single person from, say, building an extension on a house on their own. For any contractor doing work on a residential home, they should either have a residential license or a general license as well as a zoning permit and building permit. There is no dollar limit to permitting; if a contractor has been hired, they’re required to be permitted. Again, Peirce stressed that this is not only for compliance with Charleston County regulations, but also to keep the residents’ safe. “When applying for any license, the person must show that they are bonded for a minimum of $5,000 and, if they have more than

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.

NOTE: Johns Island Council moved to Thursday, June 11. Kiawah Island Arts Council 3pm - 5pm Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room

Monday, June 8 St. Johns Fire District Commission 7pm St. Johns Commission Building 3327 Maybank Highway, Johns Island

Wednesday, June 10 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.

Thursday, June 11 NEW DATE: Johns Island Council Meeting 7pm – 8pm Berkeley Electric Co-Op on Maybank Rd.

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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

May 29, 2009

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Steel wall at Captain Sam’s? By Kristin Hackler

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However, the suit states that these ith a public hearing fast worries are unfounded, as the revetment approaching on June 10, will be “environmentally appropriate” the controversy over the and will have “no negative impact on development of Captain Sam’s Spit their [piping plovers] habitat, nor on the is once again boiling to the surface birds themselves”. of island politics. Sidi Limehouse, owner of Rosebank Farms, formed the The steel sheet pile wall public hearing organization “Friends of Kiawah River” is a crucial step in Kiawah Development in March 2009 in order to protect the Partners’ progress on the Captain Sam’s river and its surroundings. According development. Whether you approve or to the organization’s mission statement, disapprove of the wall’s construction, the group wishes to encourage others to your opinion will make a difference help “… preserve the visual character, at the public hearing on June 10. The the tranquility, the fauna and the flora meeting will be held at the Berkeley of the Kiawah River and its surrounding Electric Cooperative Community marshes, banks, sand dunes, and Captain Room, 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Sam’s Spit for all future generations, so Island, at 6:30pm. Oral statements that they, too, may experience the natural will be heard at the meeting, but for beauty of the area.” the sake of accuracy, important facts A view from Beachwalker Park of the bend in the Kiawah River which is eating away at the land connection and statements should be submitted in The public hearing, called by the written form to the presiding officer at Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource to Captain Sam’s Spit. the meeting or mailed to: Management (OCRM), is being held in Pilkey said, gesturing toward the oceanside opening of response to Kiawah Development Partners II’s (KDP) the Kiawah River. “After that, the sand is rebuilt within a application for the Kiawah Island Sheet Pile Project, decade. It’s all part of the long shore transplant of sand.” SCDEHEC-Office of Ocean and which involves the construction of a steel sheet pile There are currently no structures on the spit and, Coastal Resource Management wall, road and crane travel way to provide access during according to Nancy Vinson of the Coastal Conservation attn: Alan Flemming construction of the area otherwise known as Captain League, it is home to the federally endangered piping 1362 McMillan Avenue, Suite 400 Sam’s Spit. plover, as well as the diamond back terrapin. She goes Charleston, SC 29405 In December of last year, KDP was denied permission on to note that Captain Sam’s Spit is protected under by the OCRM to build an approximately 2,700 foot long the federal Coastal Barrier Resources Act and is part of revetment along the northeast end of the Spit, though a dynamic inlet system that constantly migrates. “The As we only had a very short period of time to receive they were permitted to build a revetment along the 273 proposed bulkhead/revetment would prevent this natural comments on this article, we were unable to reach Kiawah feet which constitute the parking lot for Beachwalker flow of water and movement of sand and could have Development Partners for further information before going Park. This decision by the OCRM to deny KDP the serious unintended consequences on the River, marsh to print. Please continue checking in with The Island permission to build the revetment, however, was delayed and adjacent lands.” Connection for updates on this issue. six months beyond the lawful deadline, causing “further advance and intrusion of the riverfront critical line into Captain Sam’s Spit high land by reason of the continuing process of erosion”, according to the civil action suit filed by KDP against the OCRM on May 5, 2009. Because of the OCRM’s actions, the KDP is filing suit for an amount of no less than $100 million. Kiawah Development Partners acquired the peninsula known as Captain Sam’s Spit in 2007, which is comprised of 130 acres of high land within it’s 1.25 mile length. According to KDP’s suit, reports which An arial view of Captain Sam’s Spit. Green box indicates the area where have monitored this area have the above potograph was taken. established that “this part of Kiawah Island’s beach has been stable, accreting, and growing steadily all along the oceanfront and inlet where the Kiawah River meets the ocean.” However, there are certain parties that would argue with them, including the Friends of Kiawah River and the Coastal Conservation League. Orrin H. Pilkey, a coastal geologist and professor emeritus of the Nicolas School of Earth and Ocean Sciences at Duke University with a specialization in barrier island coasts, spent some time with Nancy Vinson of the Coastal Conservation League recently to discuss the development of Captain Sam’s Spit. Their discussions were captured in a short video composed by artist Mary Edna Fraser entitled “50 houses on Kiawah Sand”. “Every 30 – 40 years, this inlet cuts right through and the sand washes to Seabrook,”

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General Steele gives a Message to Garcia

May 29, 2009

If men do not act for themselves, what will they do when the benefit of their effort is for all? ~Elbert Hubbard, A Message to Garcia

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y the time you graduate from college, a third of what you learned as a freshman will be obsolete,” said Lieutenant General Michael Steele to the five recipients of this year’s Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club scholarships. He went on, addressing not only the students, but the room of Exchangites gathered at the Turtle Point Clubhouse for the May 20 Exchange Club dinner. The normal clatter of dishes and background chatter were absent as the members leaned in with increasing interest to the General’s speech. “We live in an exciting time,” he said, “a time of constant change. The internet ties us and links us in ways we’ve never known before; a benefit which makes education easier, faster and more accessible, but it also has a negative side as underdeveloped countries realize more and more the imbalance of the world.” He gave the example of an iPod. Today, it can hold 16 gigs of memory, which is enough to store several hundred books. By 2030, a single iPod could store 16 terabytes of information; or roughly the entire contents of the Library of Congress. “All of this knowledge on one iPod,” said the General, “knowledge which will be shared by a growing global population who will want more wealth distribution, more quality of life and in turn, this will create more instability. We have been in a time of instability since the 1980s – we’ve known it publicly since 9/11 – and we will continue to remain in it for at least the first half of this century.” In this time of change, the General remarked, we have to become comfortable with uncertainty and should look to accomplish our tasks to the best of our abilities. “And as you work through this, learning every step of the way, I encourage you to learn about yourself.” He said. In fact, he encouraged the students to go home after the meeting and, in a quiet moment, write down on a sheet of paper, the words “who am I?” “Look into your heart,” he said.

Lieutenant General Steele address the Exchange Club.

“What is your character, your values, your beliefs, your ethics? If you do this, you will discover what is good about yourself, and I encourage you to capitalize on those aspects. If you’re honest, you will also discover things that need improvement, and I encourage you to pursue that, as well.” It was while he was as student at the Citadel that Lieutenant General Steele first read the novelette Message to Garcia. At the time, he dismissed it as another classic forced on him as an English requirement. It wasn’t until his nine weeks in Ranger School that the full meaning of the book truly hit home. Five days into the nine week

training course, wherein soldiers are deprived of sleep, food and shelter and are given progressively more difficult tasks to accomplish, Steele and his Ranger buddy were talking about whether or not they could finish the full program. Steele didn’t know who brought it up, but they both began talking about the book Message to Garcia. “During the rest of the course, we talked about that book and the character of people who accomplish tasks no matter what,” he said. “It’s not about the man’s accomplishment (the background of the story describes how one soldier, Andrew Rowan, took a message from President McKinley to Garcia in Cuba, showing America’s support for them during the Spanish-American War), but rather about moral character; how one should capitalize on the good and improve on the bad.” He wrapped up his speech by reading the last paragraph of the story: “There is no excellence, per se, in poverty; rags are no recommendation; and all employers are not rapacious and high-handed, any more than all poor men are virtuous. My heart goes out to the man who does his work when the ‘boss’ is away, as well as when he is at home. And the man who, when given a letter for Garcia, quietly takes the missive, without asking any idiotic questions, and with no lurking intention of chucking it into the nearest sewer, or of doing aught else but deliver it, never gets ‘laid off’ nor has to go on a strike for higher wages. Civilization is one long anxious search for just such individuals. Anything such a man asks shall be granted. He is wanted in every city, town and village – in every office, shop, store and factory. The world cries out for such: he is needed and needed badly – the man who can ‘Carry a Message to Garcia’.”

(l to r) Exchange Club Youth of the Year Keenan Fisher with scholarship award winners Nigel Capers, Cierra Wrighton, Carlton Cohen and Saul Tovar.

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May 29, 2009

4 annual Hydrangea Festival th

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f you like hydrangeas, then you know that Rosebank Farms is the place to be on June 13 and 14, where owners Sidi Limehouse and Louise Bennett will once again host the annual Hydrangea Festival. This popular festival celebrates one of the Lowcountry’s most beautiful plants during peak blooming season. Since last year’s festival, more than 1,200 new plants have been added to the existing 2,000 hydrangeas. Sidi is recognized throughout the southeast region as an expert grower and knowledgeable professional. He has been growing and propagating hydrangeas since his boyhood on Johns Island. From 10am – 4pm, visitors may take a leisurely self-guided tour among the several acres of hydrangea gardens. Sidi and local horticulturists will be available to answer questions and provide advice about care, variety and location … in other words, all the correct information one needs to become a successful hydrangea grower. From noon until 1:30pm, enjoy lunch at tables set up next to the hydrangea and rose fields. Sidi’s famous whole hog BBQ will be served with all the trimmings and Rosebank vegetables, grown for taste (not shelf-life!), will be featured along with the barbeque. The cost of the lunch

is $12, but the advice and tours are free. Various cultivars of oakleaf, mophead, lacecap and panniculata will be on display. Over 500 established hydrangeas, new and old standby varieties, will be for sale. Hydrangea fans will also enjoy the floral displays designed to show how hydrangeas can be used to decorate the home and table. In addition to enjoying the culture of hydrangeas, guests will also be able to enjoy the Rosebank Farms rose gardens. The gardens feature more than 300 roses, plus another 80 cutting garden roses from Kordes, all selected for adaptability in the Lowcountry. The farm also features artwork created by local artists, the Johns Island Museum, a 19th century freedman’s schoolhouse with local history dating back to the days when Indians inhabited Johns Island, and don’t forget the barnyard animals – they never disappoint and are always entertaining! The farm is located at 4455 Betsy Kerrison Parkway on Johns Island, just before the Kiawah/Seabrook traffic circle. For further information, call 768-0508 or [email protected] For directions, log onto www.rosebankfarms. com.

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Become a Steward of Children

n Wednesday, June 24, the Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club will offer a unique change to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of children. According to Elizabeth Huggins, the prevention program manager for Darkness to Light, for every adult who takes the “Stewards of Children” training course, they each have the chance to better the lives of an average of ten children. “Just think of how many children we could impact,” said Fred Ristow, chairman of the Club’s child abuse prevention committee. Darkness to Light’s “Stewards of Children” is a revolutionary Sexual Abuse Prevention training program which educates adults to prevent, recognize, and

react responsibly to child sexual abuse. This program is valuable for all adults, particularly those who interact with children. In the end, adults are responsible for the safety of our children.  “By enrolling in our training session, we will gain new tools to help in reducing the incidents of Child Sexual Abuse,” writes Ristow. “This mission has been a passion of mine for some time, and I hope it will also become yours.” The program will be held at Seabrook Town Hall from 3 – 5:30pm on June 24 and a $10 donation is requested in order to help pay for materials and to cover the cost of the training.

About the Stewards of Children training program: program is the only adult-focused child sexual abuse prevention program proven effective in improving adult child-protective practices over the long term. mStewards of Children was the 2007-2008 McGruff National Crime Prevention Program of the Year. mThe 2.5-hour training is engaging and interactive, featuring over an hour of video interviews with survivors and professionals in the field, accompanied by group discussion led by a credentialed facilitator. mThe program focuses on seven simple, proactive steps that any adult can take to better safeguard the children in their life. mThere are 1,800 credentialed facilitators internationally, and over 150,000 adults have taken the training. Almost 10,000 of those adults trained are located in our Tri-County area. mTraining participants include parents, grandparents, teachers, faith leaders, youthserving organizations, youth athletic leagues, and child protection agencies. mThe

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May 29, 2009

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Hurricanes 2009: what’s in store for the east coast?

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he southeast coast of the United States affords its residents luxuries which people from all over the world travel here to experience. The lush marshlands, the salty breeze and the unique ocean views are the idea of paradise for many. But all the benefits of coastal living come with a price. Hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and coastal residents are very aware of the Lowcountry’s potential for disaster as this date comes and goes. This is especially true in 2009 as we approach the 20 year anniversary of Hurricane Hugo. On the back drop of that disastrous storm, it has never been more imperative to be prepared for hurricane season; and part of being prepared is being aware. Every year, people turn to various sources for a hint of what to expect out of the Atlantic Ocean. William Gray, of Colorado State University, is one of the most popular and analyzed hurricane forecasters in the United States. Along with his protege, Philip Klotzbach, he has spent many years analyzing data and developing models that are designed to reflect an understanding of tropical storm activity in the Atlantic Basin, the most inconsistent tropical storm corridor in the world. Fortunately, the odds seem to be in favor of an average hurricane season, as opposed to the above average year that was correctly predicted last year. According to Klotzbach and Gray, there is a 67% chance of one or more tropical storms hitting the East Coast of the U.S. this year. That is up 17% from last year. Gray says there is a 60% chance of at least one category 1-2 hurricane making landfall (up 16% from last year) and a 45% of at least one category 3-5 hurricane making landfall (up 14% from last year). Last year, there were six major storms while Gray predicted nine. Despite the great amount of research and analysis Gray introduces into his predictions, even he says that it is impossible to accurately predict with any certainty what the Atlantic has in store for us this early in the season. However, statistics do not lie and the numbers show a huge decrease in major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5) making landfall in the eastern United States over the last 43 years, compared to the previous 43 years. From 1923 to 1965, there were 24 major hurricanes to hit versus just 7 from 1966 to 2008. This phenomenon has many people asking “why”. The most popular theories have pointed to global warming. Famous personalities like Al Gore have paraded the theory in front of the public and shown that an increase in tropical storms and hurricanes is exactly what many scientists predict will happen in conjunction with global warming. Hurricanes get their massive amounts of power from warm tropical waters. So it stands to reason that warmer water equals more fuel for hurricanes. Mark Saunders, professor of climate prediction at the University College London, recently published his research in the journal Nature which suggests a correlation

By Ali Akhyari between increased water temperature and increased hurricane activity. This explains why 2005 was a record breaking year for hurricanes and why 2007 saw relatively few. Saunders’ study focused on a band of water from around Puerto Rico and Northern South America to the coast of Africa where Atlantic hurricanes are born. His study suggests that with every one degree Fahrenheit increase in water temperature, hurricane activity will increase about 50 percent. In 2005, the average water temperature in this region was 1.4 degrees higher than normal. That year there was a total of 28 named storms and 13 hurricanes. However, in 1971, when water temperatures were the coolest they have been in recorded history, there were only 13 named storms and six hurricanes. While Saunders’ study focused solely on water temperature correlations, he admits that changes in wind patterns actually have a larger impact on hurricane activity than water temperature. A recent study conducted by the federal government uses this last fact to suggest that global warming may actually decrease the number of hurricanes we see. Wind shear, a change in wind speed or direction, is a crucial factor in the development of hurricanes, which is why El Nino and La Nina shifts are so closely watched during hurricane season. Shifts between El Nino and La Nina change wind shear over the Atlantic. Increased wind shear disrupts hurricane formation, resulting in fewer hurricanes. Chunzai Wang, a research oceanographer at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), states that an increase of one degree Celsius in water temperatures in the Indian and Pacific Oceans increases wind shear by up to 10mph in the Atlantic. Wang’s study was based on observations and records of landfall hurricanes instead of computer models. However, critics say Wang used poor data that was rejected by the Nobel Prize winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Furthermore, he only studied hurricanes that make landfall in the U.S., which can be as few as 10 percent of all Atlantic hurricanes. That panel has already stated that man-made global warming has likely already increased hurricane activity. However, Klotzbach says that global hurricane activity has not increased at all over the past 30 years in relation to warmer ocean temperatures. He says that the only area where hurricane activity really fluctuates is in the Atlantic, which he attributes to the multi-decadal increase in the Atlantic Ocean thermohaline circulation (THC). Ocean salinity, not global warming, is what drives this mechanism, according to Klotzbach. According to their data, the number of major hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean was only about 1/3 as many from 1970 to 1994 as they were from 1945 to 1969, when the earth was actually experiencing a small cooling cycle and the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere were significantly lower. He suggests that increased hurricane activity in the Atlantic

is a cyclical event. When comparing the recent increased activity since 1994 to activity from 1950-1964, the numbers are basically the same, although water temperatures (and fashions) were cooler in the 50s and 60s. Researchers on both sides of the global warming fence use different sets of data and details to support their arguments. As the debate continues, it is apparent that the relationship between hurricane activity and global warming is too poorly understood to make a firm conclusion. In the meantime, Mother Nature is content with continuing her work behind a few shrouds of mystery. Regardless of what prediction or theory you choose to follow, one thing is certain: The South Carolina Name that ’cane 2009 There are six lists of names that rotate every year for naming hurricanes. Names are typically removed from the lists each year as significant storms names are retired, like Hazel (1954), Fifi (1974), Hugo (1989), Andrew (1992) and Katrina (2005). The names Dean, Felix, and Noel, three of the most devastating storms of the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season, were retired by the World Meteorological Organization’s Regional Association IV Hurricane Committee. They were replaced with the names Dorian, Fernand, and Nestor. Three names were retired from the 2008 Atlantic season. Hurricanes Gustav, Ike and Paloma will be replaced by Gonzalo, Isaias and Paulette and will be in rotation in 2014. Gustav first made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Haiti before striking Cuba as a Category 4 and finishing up in Louisiana as a Category 2. Gustav was responsible for 112 lives, mostly in Haiti, and causing $4 billion worth of damage in Louisiana. Hurricane Ike struck the Turks and Caicos Islands and Great Inagua Island in the Southeastern Bahamas on September 7 as a Category 4, before hitting Cuba followed by Galveston, Texas as a Category 2. Ike killed over 80 people and caused an estimated $19.3 billion in damage. Since tropical cyclones were first named in 1953, 70 names have been retired, the first two being Carol and Hazel in 1954.  Paloma was the second

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Lowcountry is right in the line of fire for Atlantic hurricanes. It is important to be prepared. For a wealth of emergency information, visit www.charlestoncounty. org. Click on “Departments”, then “Law Enforcement/Public Safety” to find information on emergency management and preparedness. Also, check out the www.scprepares.org website for emergency number lists, emergency kit preparation, tips on handling pets, as well as methods for dealing with disasters from tornadoes to biological emergencies. Detailed information on Klotzbach and Gray’s predictions can be viewed at http:// hurricane.atmos.colostate.edu/Forecasts/.

strongest November hurricane on record, reaching Category 4 status before hitting Cuba and destroying an estimated 1400 homes and causing $300 million in damage. The naming of hurricanes has been traced back to a tradition in the West Indies that is still practiced today, where storms were named for the Catholic Saint’s Day on which they landed. For example, hurricane San Filipe struck Puerto Rico on September 13, 1876. When another storm struck exactly fifty years later, the storm was christened San Filipe the Second. Hurricanes are named alphabetically, although the letters “Q” and “U” are always left out and the lists only go to “W”. If the list is used up for the year and storms are still forming, the storms are then named alphabetically from the Greek alphabet, Alpha to Omega. 2009 hurricane names Ana Bill Claudette Danny Erika Fred Grace Henri Ida Joaquin Kate

Larry Mindy Nicholas Odette Peter Rose Sam Teresa Victor Wanda

May 29, 2009

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The Station at Freshfields Village

Build a home with a golf club

By Mary Girault

Provided by Christa Lewis

y the year’s end, The Station at Freshfields Village will be open, and island residents and visitors will have a convenient new place to procure necessities including fuel, a convenience store, and a laser car wash. The Station is being developed by Kiawah Development Partners (KDP). “We know that the residents and guests of Kiawah, Seabrook and lower Johns Island have wanted a convenient fuel and car wash alternative,” said Townsend Clarkson, chief operating officer of KDP. “The Station at Freshfields will offer competitive prices, service and easy access.” The Station will be everything a convenience store ought to be, with a New York style deli, a cold and hot beverage station, beer cave, nutritious snacks, clean restrooms, bike racks, porches complete with rocking chairs that invite socializing, and clerks who learn your name and preferences. Gas will be offered from eight pumps at competitive prices. The touchless laser car wash cleanses safely and is environmentally friendly – utilizing 40% less water than traditional car washes. A vacuum cleaner and air pump will also be available. The Station will be located near the Kiawah Island entrance to Freshfields Village, just across from Bank of America, and just behind the new Kiawah Island bike path. The nostalgic architecture by MG Architects will blend in with Village style, with building and engineering expertise provided by Hill Construction and Thomas & Hutton, respectively.

On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Osprey Point Golf Course will be the site of 100+ golfers ready to tee-off for Habitat for Humanity. Every registered player will receive a free Nike duffle bag and will compete for top prizes in overall score, closest-to-the-pin contests and hole-in-one challenges. With prizes such as the new Callaway Diablo Driver, a BMW, and cash, this benefit will be fun for everyone. For the past two years, the Sea Island Habitat Golf Benefit has sold out with waiting lists. At the reception, there will also be a silent auction featuring gift baskets filled with wine, jewelry, golf accessories and much more. Co-chairs of this year’s tournament are Frank and Ginny Larence. “Charity begins at home; this is in our own back yard,” said Ginny. “So often, we have the sentiment of ‘not in my back yard’, but yes – these families are in our back yards! Coming from a professional career into a volunteer career, I appreciate that 91.1% of every donated dollar goes to building homes. When I ask my friends to donate, I can confidently assure them that their money is going directly to the mission.” To register: contact Christa Lewis at Sea Island Habitat for Humanity at either: 768-0998 x111 or [email protected].

Kiawah Golf Resort takes tennis’ top spot

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by Mike Vegis

or the third time in four years, readers of the leading online tennis travel website, TennisResortsOnline.com, have named Kiawah Island Golf Resort as the number one tennis resort in the world. The rankings are based on the overall tennis program including instruction, teaching staff, facilities, as well as other resort facilities such as lodging, cuisine, service and value. TennisResortsOnline. com rated Kiawah as the number one resort in 2006 and 2007. In 2008, it dropped to number three before returning to the top spot in the latest poll that was released this May. Under the direction of Roy Barth since 1976, the tennis program at Kiawah Island has become one of the finest tennis programs in the country. The combination of Barth’s teaching experience and professional background has made him an integral part of Kiawah’s tennis programs. Barth played professionally for seven years, during which time he was ranked in the top 50 in the world and competed against such tennis greats like Borg and Connors. In 1990, he was awarded the PTR Pro of the Year and in 1997, Barth was inducted into the South Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame. In 1999, he was inducted into the

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Southern Tennis Hall of Fame and he is currently Chairman of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Davis Cup Committee. Guests of Kiawah Island Golf Resort can enjoy two separate tennis facilities: West Beach Tennis Center and the Roy Barth Tennis Center near the resort’s oceanfront hotel and spa, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. West Beach features 14 Har-Tru clay courts, two lighted hard courts and a backboard. Guests at The Sanctuary are also steps away from the East Beach tennis facility, which features nine Har-Tru clay courts (one lighted) and three hard courts (one lighted), as well as a zoned practice court with a ball machine and automatic retrieval system. Both clubs offer fully staffed pro shops, complete instructional facilities, and are beautifully landscaped with lush shrubbery separating the courts for privacy. For more information, visit www. kiawahresort.com or call 800-6542924. Visit www.kiawahmoments.com to experience special Kiawah Island moments through guest’s stories, pictures and video.

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May 29, 2009

Sun Devil Classic Golf Tournament On Monday, June 22, Sam Schirmer Nationwide Insurance Agency will present the 2009 Sun Devil Classic to benefit Charleston Collegiate School. This year’s tournament will be hosted at The River Course at The Kiawah Island Club with a shotgun start at 12:30pm. This fun-filled, competitive day of golf includes gifts, raffle prizes, and three chances to win $1,000,000 in the Solaris Shoot-Out. This is a great way to entertain friends, customers, and top employees. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, call Charleston Collegiate School at 559-5506 or visit charlestoncollegiate.org/newsevents/golftournament.

PHOTO BY Olivia French

(l to r) Tim Ford, Tommy Ford, Paul McGuire and Doug Van Scoy.

Playing through: BIFMC tou

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t was ideal Scottish golfing weather; about 50 degrees with a wind chill in the mid 40s and a light drizzle that fell consistently from an overcast, evenly gray sky. It was the type of day that, if you were actually out playing golf, you were a man’s man (or a tough-as-nails woman) and no one blamed you for the 8am snifter of scotch; in fact, it was probably encouraged. But this wasn’t Scotland, it was Charleston and it was in the middle of May, and the poor souls on the golf course were far more used to dealing with the blazing sun and trying to remember where they put the insect repellent than they were used to finger numbing temperatures and unrelenting rain. But despite the cruel twist in weather patterns, the golfers stuck it out, layered their windbreakers with sweaters and played on, because this wasn’t just any day for golf, it was the 2nd Annual Celebrity Golf Invitational at the Kiawah River Course for the Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic. “It was tough gathering sponsors this year because of the economy,” said Dr. Arthur Booth, co-founder with Dr. Charlie Davis of the Barrier Island Free Medical Clinic, “But we’ve had a lot of people show up and bring their friends to help support our cause.” The cause being the clinic’s mission to serve the health and wellness needs of the medically underserved who live or work on Johns, Wadmalaw and James Islands. Founded in April 2008, the clinic, located on Maybank Highway on Johns Island, kicked off their first year serving 378 patients. However, since January of this year, the number of patients has skyrocketed to 850, with almost 2,000 patient visits by May of 2009. “There are estimates that the number of uninsured people in this country is around 38 – 40 million,” said Dr. Booth. “I’d say it was closer to 41 million and half of them are not insured because they just won’t get it, but the other half simply can’t afford it. Those are the people we’re reaching out to, those who can’t afford insurance, and it’s a cyclical service. The one’s who can’t afford insurance live here, on Johns Island, Wadmalaw Island; but they work on Kiawah and Seabrook. They’re our gardeners and trash collectors, the day laborers without whom we would be a mess.” He smiled, “It’s heart warming to see, in 2009, so many people who have the heart to do

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By Kristin the right thing. We’re not only helping them, we’re helping you and me. It’s wonderful to see such goodness in folk.” And the Barrier Island Free Medical Clinic is not only helping the uninsured, it’s helping the average tax payer, as well. “Hospitals have a tremendous amount of unfunded care,” said Eugenia Beach, executive director of the clinic. “Last year, MUSC had $2.7 million in unfunded care, while Roper St. Francis had about $6.2 million between their four facilities. At our current rate, we have the potential to save Roper St. Francis around $600,000 this year.” Beach explained that recent figures have shown a drop in the number of visits to the hospitals’ emergency rooms from their coverage areas: from 185 visits per month to 108. “The average cost of an ER visit is between $700 and $1000,” said Beach. “If that’s your only means of primary care, it becomes very expensive, very quickly. We’ve been impacting the ERs across the Lowcountry by providing early care: preventing strokes, treating diabetes and hypertension, caring for coronary disease and depression. In fact, that’s our greatest measure of success; how many people we’ve diverted from emergency rooms, effectively saving taxpayers’ money.” Thanks to the generous support of this year’s sponsors, the clinic hopes to make a serious dent in this year’s budget, though they aren’t expecting to raise as much as they did last year and are still facing a roughly $200,000 shortfall for 2009. However, they have high hopes for their second fundraiser for the year – a wine festival at Freshfields Village which should take place in early September. So many people reached out to the clinic this year and gave what they could, despite the financial climate. The Barrier Island Free Medical Clinic heartily thanks all of the volunteers who toughed out the unseasonably cold weather and made this year’s tournament possible, as well as the many sponsors who were able to lend a helping hand. For more information on the Barrier Island Free Medical Clinic, call (843) 266-9800 or visit 3226 Maybank Hwy, Suite A, Johns Island.

May 29, 2009

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ughs out coldest day in May

in Hackler

(above) Golf group Poe, Barbario and Young. (right, top) Dar Murphy, Kathleen Murphy, Capey Freeman and Anne Long brave the cold rain on the course. (right, below) David Stilring, Bill Davis, Woody Hancock and Charlie Septer take on the elements.

Title sponsor: Kiawah Island Real Estate Presenting sponsors: Brad and Ann Munday & Whitlow and Linda Wyatt Corporate sponsors: IMSCO, Inc & Prestige Farms Gold sponsors: Anonymous, Joy Craft, KIRE (Lewis Driskell/Gordon Hillock), Merrill Lynch (Fetner-Tobin Group), Pepsi Bottling Group & Roper St. Francis Health Care Hole sponsors: Chase (Bobby Medlin), Geiss Jewelers, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Koenig Construction, Henry J. Lee Distributors, Lexus of Charleston, National Christian Foundation, Picky and Clean Property Management, Seamar Construction Company, Sticky Fingers, Wayne Windham Architect, PA. Benefactors: AMCS, Inc, Jeff and Kathy Bixler, Blue Flame Gas Co., Dr. Arthur and Linda Booth, Dr. Alan and Ruth Gillespie, Dan and Nancy Grover, Harry and Mercy Lightsey, Charlie and Rose Septer, Dr. Jim Spann, Bill and Patty Staemfli and Terry and Tilly Weaver. Friends: Gary and Barbara Bressler, Laurie and Ann Burpee, Shannon Butler, Clay Cahoon, Charleston Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, LLC, Dr. Charlie and Barbara Davis, Dr. John and Lou Davis, Judith Davis, Michael and Toula Digiovanni, Jack and Pat Duncan, Ralph and Nancy Edwards, ESC Elevator Co., Bob and Nancy Fisher, Ron and Carol Hacker, Dennis and Sheila Hampton, Peggy Levinson, Thomas Little, Mappus Insurance Agency, Michael McCanna, Ann McKee, Joseph Minor, Bob and Linda Nevin, Steve and Ginny Orban, Robert Philbeck, Dan and Nancy Pricket, Marygrace Redfern, Peter and Mary Ellen Redfern, Ed and Lois Rineheimer, R.I. Foundation – Fanning, Brian and Marilyn Sturgell and William and Christy Taylor.

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May 29, 2009

Daily Discoveries

Brown Pelicans By Jennifer Barbour “Oh, a wondrous bird is the pelican! His bill holds more than his belican. He can take in his beak Enough food for a week. But I’m darned if I know how the helican.” Dixon Lanier Merritt (1879-1972)

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rowing up on the Gulf coast of Florida, I spent many days at my grandparents’ place on the beach. Next door was a seabird sanctuary that housed injured pelicans. The smell alone kept most people at bay, but I managed to drag my grandfather in every time we went for a walk. The workers would let me throw fish to the pelicans on the beach at sunset. My little hands could only get one fish out at a time, making the pelicans fairly impatient. I remember seeing fishing line and hooks caught on various legs, wings, and pouches. Some birds had bills partially broken off and some had eyes that looked cloudy. While my grandparents place was sold years ago, I still find my way down to the beach when I’m in town, stopping by the seabird sanctuary to visit the pelicans. The brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) is a common sight for Kiawah and Seabrook residents and guests. People are awed by the elegance and grace exhibited by these birds as they soar above the waves, and they are

equally thrilled to see the spectacular show they put on, diving from great heights to catch fish. Under perfect conditions, a pelican can live to be more than 30 years old. A healthy adult pelican will weigh five to eight pounds, consuming three to four pounds of fish per day. They primarily use their pouch to catch fish, but will also flap their pouch to cool their body temperature, much like a dog will pant. In calm winds, brown pelicans can fly up to 35 mph. Their wingspread ranges from six to seven feet, tip to tip. PHOTO BY JAMIE ROOD Male pelicans are larger than females and have a longer bill. From late winter to early spring, males and females work together to raise their young. Males bring the material for the nest building and females construct a nest in the sand. Two to four eggs are laid and the chicks hatch after 30 days of incubation by both the male and female. Pelicans feed their youngest chicks regurgitated fish. Later, the older chicks feed from the parents pouch. Young pelicans learn to feed themselves by copying adults in the wild, however, some of this behavior is most likely instinctive. Chicks are fully grown and able to fly by 11 to 12 weeks of age. We are fortunate to live near Deuveux Bank, a 25-acre sand spit located in the mouth of the Edisto River, which

serves a s one of South Carolina’s m o s t significant pelican rookeries. A brown pelican becomes sexually mature at two to three years of age. Immature pelicans are brown with a white belly, while mature pelicans have a blackish belly with a more silver back. Adults have a white head and reddish-brown neck during the summer. During the winter, adults have a white neck and yellow head. This colorful plumage helps in attracting a mate during mating season. Natural enemies of the pelicans are man and occasionally raccoons in the nesting colonies. Pelicans face a wide variety of unnatural threats as well: oil spills, pesticide runoff, fishing lines, guns, cars, boats, and power lines. While there are many human activities that threaten this species, one simple thing you can do is properly recycle your monofilament fishing line. The Kiawah Island Community Association, the Town of Kiawah, as well as the Resort’s Nature Program actively participate in recycling monofilament fishing line. Look for a fishing line recycle container at your favorite fishing spot, or bring your extra line to the Nature Center to be recycled. 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_ [email protected]. * Information taken from the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary (Indian Shores, FL)

Kiawah Island Golf Resort Recreation Below is a condensed list of activities available.  Please visit www.kiawahnatureprogram. com for more information on all our nature tours and family activities, or call the Heron Park Center, 843.768.6001, to make a reservation. Adult Twilight Paddle: May 29, June 1,3,5,8,10,12 - $50/$55 All About Snakes: May 31, June 2, 7, 9 - $7 All About Turtles: June 4,11 - $7 Alligator Adventure: May 30, 31, June 2,4,6,7,9,11 - $15 Back Island Birding: May 29, June 2,5,8,12 - $25 Birds & Butterflies Walk: May 30, June 3,6,10 - $10 Dolphin Encounters: available daily – call for specific tours & times Family Craft - Birdhouse Decorating: Thursdays - $10 Family Craft - Organic Beach Bag Coloring: Saturdays - $10 Family Craft - Postcard Making: Wednesdays - $12 Family Craft - Stepping Stones: Fridays - $10 Family Craft - Tye Dye: Tuesdays - $12 Fishing Charters: available daily – call for specific tours & times Gator Walk: May 29,31, June1,2,4,5,7,8,9,11,12 - $12 Jr. Naturalist Herpatology: May 29, June 5,12 - $15 Kamp Kiawah: Mon – Sat - $47/$67 Kayaking Tours: available daily – call

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for specific tours & times Kiawah Night Exploration: June 2,4,8,11 - $15 Kiawah’s Deadliest : May 30, June 3,6, 10 - $7 Kiawah’s Deadliest Catch (crabbing): available daily – call for specific tours & times Kid’s Night Out - Kamp U Rock!: Saturdays - $42/$62 Kid’s Night Out - Sanctuary Splash Bash: Fridays - $42/$62 Morning Fun Run: Daily, 6:30 – 8 am Motorboat Tours: available daily – call for specific tours & times Night Beach Walk: May 29, June 1,3,5,8,10,12 - $10 Ocean Seining: May 29 - $10 Pick Up Games: Monday through Sunday - Free Recycle Cycle: June 3 and 10 - $15 Reptile Round Up: May 29, June 1,3,5,8,10,11,12 - $5 Shark Fishing: available daily – call for specific times Walkin’ in the Wild: June 4 and 11 $10 Wildlife in the Wetlands (bike tour): May 30, June 2,4,6,9,11 - $20  

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May 29, 2009

Local artists receive grants

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he Coastal Community Foundation has awarded nearly $56,000 to 19 local artists and arts organizations. The awards were made in two funding programs supported by Foundation endowments: The Expansion Arts Fund and the Griffith Visual Arts Fund. “Past awards from these endowments have helped launch programs and careers that today are established parts of the artistic wealth of the Lowcountry,” said Richard Hendry, Vice President of Programs for the Foundation. “This year’s recipients are going places artistically, and we hope their awards will help them know that they are valued and appreciated.” The Expansion Arts Fund was created in 1988 when local donors met the challenge issued by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to match $60,000 to create a local funding source to provide grants to “Expansion Artists.” Through this endowment, the Foundation seeks to promote and expand the works of new and emerging arts groups and individuals. In the years since, the fund has grown from $120,000 to a corpus of more than $227,000. Since its inception, more than $355,000 in grants has been provided, with additional grant dollars provided by the John & Susan Bennett Memorial Arts Endowment, created in 2002 through a bequest from John Bennett to honor his grandparents. The program operates in alternate years, with a maximum award amount of $5,000. In addition, a $5,000 grant from the Griffith Visual Arts Fund at the Foundation was recommended for Wadmalaw artist Bernadette Cali. Because of fund establishers Donna and Mike Griffiths’ love of the Lowcountry

and its local artists, they created this fund in 2003 to give an annual grant to a single artist to produce a work of art reflecting “the look and feel of the Lowcountry,” which the artist may then keep or sell. The award will support Cali’s creation of an oil painting of the building and grounds of Johns Island’s historic Progressive Club. An exhibit of Cali’s new and past works is expected to be held at the City Gallery at Waterfront Park early in 2010. In its 35-year history, Coastal Community Foundation has awarded more than $75 million in grants and manages assets in excess of $105 million. Last year, Foundation funds generated over $11.8 million for charitable programming, community projects, educational initiatives and scholarships. To learn more, go to: www. coastalcommunityfoundation.org. Individuals and organizations receiving Expansion Arts grants: Charleston Academy of Music – Music Bill Carson – musician & documentarian Fletcher Crossman - painter Zelda Grant – fabric artist Ashley Harwood – sculptor in wood Molly Hayes – photographer Joanna Jackson – sculptor in wood Michael Moran – wood sculpture New Music Collective - music PURE Theatre – theatre Redux – exhibit and performance space Georgette Sanders – pottery and sweetgrass basketry Samuel Sfirri - composer Henrietta Snype – sweetgrass basketry The Village Group – producer, rural Georgetown arts festival Darryl Wellington – writer Hunter Wentworth – filmmaker Julian Williams - ironworker

Cultural calendar Friday, May 29

Friday, June 12

Music on the Green at the Village Green Featuring Meanie, Miney, Moe from 6-9 pm. A Charleston based three piece rock band that plays mainly classic hits and a variety of R&B. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491. Monday, June 1

Music on the Green From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Green, come listen to Shrimp City Slim. Original music with a combination of post-modern blues and musical flavors of the Carolina coast. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. For more info, contact Guest Services at 768-6491.

Farmers & Art Market at the Freshfields Village Green From 4 – 8pm, visit local farmers, artisans, and food vendors who offer a variety of the freshest local produce and unique handmade crafts, including honey, flowers, handmade jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, food, and much more. Various stores will feature local artists each week. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

Sunday, June 14

Friday, June 5 Music on the Green At the Freshfields Village Green from 6 – 9pm. Come listen to Bradford Station. Led by guitarist Brad Henty, Bradford Station plays variety of tunes including blues, rock, beach, country, and jazz. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

Monday, June 8 Farmers & Art Market at the Freshfields Village Green From 4 – 8pm, visit local farmers, artisans, and food vendors who offer a variety of the freshest local produce and unique handmade crafts, including honey, flowers, handmade jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, food, and much more. Various stores will feature local artists each week. For more information, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

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Blues in the Night Starting at 4pm at the Kiawah River Course. Enjoy music from world renown blues musicians Satan & Adam (Sterling “Mr. Satan” Magee - guitar & vocal & Adam Gussow - harmonica) and Eddie  Shaw & The Wolf Gang; the former backing band of the legendary Howlin’ Wolf. Tickets available beginning June 1 at Town Hall. Tickets $25 for the food buffet at the River Course (required for attendance).

Tuesday, June 16 Seabrook Island Art Guild (SIAG) meeting The Seabrook Island Art Guild meets on the third Tuesday of every month at the Property Owners Association building at 3pm. If you would like to join the Guild, membership dues are $20/year. For more information, please contact Robert McBride at 768-3696.

Saturday, June 27 Beach Music at Kiawah 7:30pm at the Kiawah Sandcastle pool.  The Islanders, a six piece band, will play beach music poolside at the Sandcastle.  Need Shag instruction or a review? Come at 6:30pm to meet with our Dance Pros.  Bring your own beverage and snacks, if desired.  Tickets available beginning June 12  at Town Hall.

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Rural Mission Seafood Jamboree

New requirements for saltwater fishing license

By Chris Brooks

By the SC Department of Natural Resources

Seafood Jamboree is a wonderful happening of food, praise, singing and fellowship which bring together people of all walks of life for an evening of sharing and inspiration. Unforgettable, traditional Lowcountry/Sea Island dishes are served under the trees at the Rural Mission and visitors will be able to enjoy their food while taking in a priceless view of Bohicket Creek. This event has been a Rural Mission tradition for over thirty years. These Tuesday evening gatherings provide the bond that brings together those of faith seeking to make life on the Sea Islands more enjoyable. Please inquire about having your group, or simply yourself, attend and share in this experience. This is also an opportunity to support the Mission’s ministry and to show appreciation to our many volunteers. Please call the Mission at 768-1720 during the 9am to 5pm workday, Monday through Friday, to ask about the schedule. If possible, give us a head count to assure that everyone can be accommodated. All inquiries should be made at least by the Monday before these Tuesday gatherings. Location: The Rural Mission is located at 3429 Camp Care Road. Turn at our sign next to Church of Our Savior on Bohicket Road, Johns Island. Schedule :Seafood Jamborees begin at 6pm and end around 8:30 or 9pm. (Scheduled dates may be added or deleted so please call) June 9, 16, 23, 30, July 14, 21, 28 Cost : The Mission asks for a donation of $15 per person. Please ask about the cost for different ages or circumstances by calling 768-1720.

May spells “fun” at SINHG

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May 29, 2009

by Lynda Fox

he Seabrook Island Natural History Group spring season wrapped up in May with a great party and great trips. The May 8 Fish Fry at Betty Stringfellow’s home was lots of fun for the 234 attendees. Vice president Pete Hubbard had everything perfectly planned and the weather fully cooperated. May trips included the always popular Spirit of South Carolina, along with a Charleston Harbor Tour and a Blue Crabbing Clinic with Lowcountry Boil. The term “Tall Ship” brings to mind billowing sails, salt air, sun, and sliding silently through the water. All of this and more greeted SINHG members on board the Spirit of South Carolina, the 140 foot, two masted tall ship. Four hours sailing in Charleston Harbor, with history lessons and magnificent views of the waterfront, Fort Sumter and waterfront Charleston, made this one of our favorite trips. The tall ship trip this spring was especially wonderful. According to trip participant Roger Steel, it was “a great day, sunny, not too hot and a stiff breeze; we sailed the entire time.” SINHG hopes everyone has a wonderful summer. When July comes around, be sure to renew your membership and look for fall trip announcements. Then in August, check out the fall speaker program. Current SINHG members will receive information via email. Information is also available at www.sinhg.org. SINHG membership is open to all Seabrook Island residents.

Fun with SINHG on the Spirit of South Carolina.

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he recent session of the South Carolina General Assembly made changes to the Saltwater Recreational Fishing License effective July 1, 2009. License fees will not change. The changes to the South Carolina Saltwater Recreational Fishing License will allow better access to information about recreational catch, which will lead to better management of South Carolina’s valuable marine resources. The changes also ensure that anglers in S.C. will simply need to purchase a single license to fish anywhere in both state and federal saltwaters. Revenue generated from Saltwater Recreational Fishing License sales will be used for the direct benefit of South Carolina’s marine recreational fisheries. Currently a saltwater recreational fishing license is required for people: • Harvesting oysters or clams. • Fishing for finfish from a private boat or transporting catch in a private boat. The new legislation will require a saltwater recreational fishing license for people who also: • Recreationally fish from shore (beach, bank, private dock, free public pier, etc.). • Recreationally harvest shrimp and/ or crab. You may purchase a license by telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling toll free 1-866-714-3611 or by going online at: www.dnr.sc.gov/ purchase.html. There are a few exceptions that will allow people to harvest marine resources without a saltwater recreational fishing license, including fishing off a licensed

PHOTO BY Roger Steel

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commercial public fishing pier, fishing off a licensed for-hire vessel (charter and headboats), fishing with three or fewer fold-up traps, fishing with three or fewer drop nets, fishing with three or fewer hand lines with a single bait and no hooks (chicken necking) and taking shrimp over bait (still required to have Shrimp Baiting License). Saltwater Recreational Fishing License fees remain at the following: Annual Resident - $10 14-day Resident - $5 Annual Non-Resident - $35 14-day Non-Resident - $11 DNR protects and manages South Carolina’s natural resources by making wise and balanced decisions for the benefit of the state’s natural resources and its people. Find out more about DNR at www.dnr.sc.gov.

May 29, 2009

As IVes sees it

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THE DEATH WATCH

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olitics can be as exciting or as dull as a soap opera rerun.  Ronald Reagan was coming to town as part of a campaign tour while running against the incumbent and very unpopular (at the time) Jimmy Carter.  Inflation was soaring, gas was dispensed on a first come, first served basis beginning at 5am, the economy was in a pickle, and the Iranians were holding hundreds of US citizens hostage. I was in my senior year of college

by Dwight Ives, ma, ma, lutcf serving as President of the Baptist College Republican Club and working every job possible to pay bills and stay in school. About this time, I received a call from one of my favorite “moms,” Mrs. Francis B. Stogner, asking IF I would be interested in working for Ronald Reagan. (She had more connection to national leaders than the White House switchboard). I choked out a “yes” before she changed her mind. She gave me the particulars of where to meet only after I gave her info for my background check.  On her word, state security once admitted me to the Governor’s Mansion for President Gerald Ford’s visit to SC. She had power but used it quietly.  Her opinions were much louder. I was like a second son to her, and we were friends for years until her death. She told me to meet at the Mills House for instructions.  I was assigned to work with Secret Service Agent Anthony (“Tony”) Morango who had a great reputation with volunteers.  I was not disappointed.  He was quiet a man with movie star looks, a gentle demeanor, and the kindness of a saint.  Once we had completed our duty of off loading all national press gear, he selected me to accompany him to hand out ditty bags to other agents that evening. Doors would open and mysterious hands would appear and disappear, taking the bags with them.

Once he addressed a disembodied hand as “Sir!”  No faces were ever seen. Early the next day, I met with Agent Morango to reverse our movements, taking all press gear to the Charleston International Airport for scanning by the US Air Force bomb squad before reloading onto the plane. It was here that he asked me to help “re-wire” him since his communications device disappeared into his perfectly tailored camel hair coat. This task necessitated his revealing the location of his weapon. Victoria never had a secret like that. His secret was also fully loaded but prepared for action. With task complete, it was time to bid farewell, never to meet again. He remained with the plane to guard its contents. I returned to the hotel to hear Mr. Reagan speak. That afternoon I boarded the bus filled with local press to witness Mr. Reagan’s departure from the airport.  I took a seat near the front while most others were sitting in the mid and back sections. The bus fell into place with the highly protected entourage of limos and other vehicles, one of which ahead of me contained my hero, Ronald Reagan. Much to my surprise, a man was standing dead center in the back of a pickup truck with a tripodmounted camera.  The lens was pointed forward in the direction of the limos. I was in such awe that I gasped out loud,

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“What’s that?”  From an unknown source from the back and with no explanation came the reply, “It’s the death watch.” I had only an anonymous source and no possible recourse for further info without disrupting the harmony of the bus occupants, so this slipped from memory for a couple of years. Enter the ever-popular J. Douglas Donohue of the Post & Courier.  My brothers had each taken his journalism courses with great reviews. Now I was in their place in his class. One day he spoke of unusual events behind the scenes with the media - usually meaning the printed press, but he was multifaceted.  I raised my hand and asked, “What about the death watch?”  He froze in his tracks and turned to me, saying in a booming voice reminiscent of the “The Boo” in Lords of Discipline, “How do you know about THAT?”  Good or bad, I struck either a home run or out. “I saw it!” I replied, “When Reagan visited Charleston.” Still booming, he said, “You remember the Kennedy assignation…there was only one camera.  Now when a national candidate or the president is on the move publicly, there is always a camera on him.” Of course he required me to divulge my ability and credentials to witness such an event.  Needless to say, I got the “A” and took a second course.

Island Connection Calendar May 29 - June 13 Friday, May 29 Music on the Green at the Village Green Featuring Meanie, Miney, Moe from 6-9 pm. A Charleston based three piece rock band that plays mainly classic hits and a variety of R&B. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

Saturday, May 30 Folly Beach Wahine Classic May 30-31 – High tide 2pm. For more info, call Nancy Hussey at 843-3434047 or email  [email protected].

Body, Mind & Spirit for Dogs and their People Dogs of all breeds – and their well behaved people - are invited to attend a special Wild Heir Labrador Rescue (WHLR) benefit from 6 to 9pm at Fetch Doggy Day Care at 1990 Ashley River Road in West Ashley. All proceeds from the evening will go towards surgery costs for Callie. For further info, visit www. wildheirlabradorrescue.org.

Friday, June 5

Male cat Neuter-a-thon Pet Helpers Spay & Neuter Clinic, 1447 Folly Road, James Island. Cost is $11 per cat. By appointment only. For more info and to make an appointment, please call 302-0556.

Music on the Green At the Freshfields Village Green from 6 – 9pm. Come listen to Bradford Station. Led by guitarist Brad Henty, Bradford Station plays variety of tunes including blues, rock, beach, country, and jazz. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

Monday, June 1

Saturday, June 6

Farmers & Art Market at the Freshfields Village Green From 4 – 8pm, visit local farmers, artisans, and food vendors who offer a variety of the freshest local produce and unique handmade crafts, including honey, flowers, handmade jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, food, and much more. Various stores will feature local artists each week. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

3rd Annual Read-a-Palooza From 1 – 4pm, celebrate the beginning of summer at the Johns Island library. Join us for games, crafts, a jump castle and summer reading sign-up! The Johns Island Library is located at 3531 Maybank Highway, Johns Island. For more info, call 559-1945.

Sunday, May 31

Wednesday, June 3 Starlight Cinema at Freshfields Village Green Starting at 9pm. Bolt (2008):  Bolt lives on the set of his action TV show, where he believes he has superpowers. Rated PG. 96 minutes. Sponsored by SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491. St. Johns Rotary Club The St Johns Rotary Club meets regularly at 7:30am each Wednesday morning in the multipurpose roomat Berkeley Electric Cooperative located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island. For more info, contact Martha Harris at 5596955.

Thursday, June 4 2009 Disaster Awareness Day The Towns of Kiawah and Seabrook present Disaster Awareness Day at the Sandcastle on Kiawah Island. Vendors and speakers will be available to share information on how to prepare you and your household for hurricane season, as well as for earthquakes and other natural disasters. This event is open to residents of both islands and will be held from 10am – 3pm. Door prizes and a buffet lunch will be provided. Book Signing & Wine and Cheese Reception Do Old Dogs Dream. Author Harold J. Creel, Jr. will be signing books at Pet Helpers from 7pm – 9pm. Pet Helpers, 1447 Folly Road, James Island. All evening proceeds benefit the rescue and care of Pet Helper’s senior canines. The Grey Muzzle Foundation, a national organization, will be on hand to share information on the care of senior dogs.

Carolina Lady Anglers “Fishing for the Cure” The Carolina Lady Anglers are pleased to announce the date for the 12th annual “Fishing for the Cure” inshore tournament. The tournament will be held at the Charleston Maritime Center with a 4pm weigh in. Entry fee will be $30 per angler. Youth anglers 12 and under is $10 per angler. Entry forms can be mailed to P O Box 13141, Charleston, SC 29422. For more info, please e-mail [email protected] or visit www.carolinaladyanglers.org. Leslie McCravy 5K Run to Benefit Pet Helpers Come out for a morning run to help raise money for Pet Helpers in memory of Leslie McCravy. Start and finish by the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, Folly Beach; race begins at 8am. Cost: Early $25 through June 1 includes t-shirt. Late - $30 after June 1st includes t-shirt while supplies last. Register at www.pethelpers. org or www.active.com

calling 873-9929. 14th Annual Sea Island Habitat for Humanity Golf Benefit This event is all about fun with a shotgun start, putting contest, hole-in-one challenge and great prizes! Come build a house with a golf club at the beautiful Osprey Point Golf Course. Contact Christa Lewis at 843-768-0998 x 111 or [email protected] for more details! 11 am @ Osprey Point Golf Course, Kiawah Island.

Monday, June 8 Farmers & Art Market at the Freshfields Village Green From 4 – 8pm, visit local farmers, artisans, and food vendors who offer a variety of the freshest local produce and unique handmade crafts, including honey, flowers, handmade jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, food, and much more. Various stores will feature local artists each week. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491.

Wednesday, June 10 Starlight Cinema at Freshfields Village Green Starting at 9pm. Akeelah and the Bee (2006):  Akeelah could provide her community with someone to be proud of at the National Spelling Bee. Rated PG. 112 minutes. Sponsored by SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491. Public hearing: Kiawah River Bend Revetment/Captain Sam’s Spit OCRM has scheduled a public hearing for Kiawah Development Partners’ proposal to construct a sheet pile wall, road and crane travel way to provide access during construction adjacent to Kiawah River on land otherwise known as Captain Sam’s Spit. The hearing will be held at Berkeley Electric, 3351 Maybank Road, Johns Island, at 6:30pm. St. Johns Rotary Club See Wednesday, June 3.

Friday, June 12 Music on the Green From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Green, come listen to Shrimp City Slim. Original music with a combination of post-modern blues and musical flavors

Amateur and Pro Disc Golf Tournament at Trophy Lakes Carolina Watersports at Trophy Lakes on Johns Island will be hosting an all day Amateur and Pro Disc Golf Tournament, open to the public. Trophy Lakes offers a variety of family activities, including a sand volleyball court, 18 hole Disc Golf Course, climbing wall, walking trails, trampoline, wakeboard park with rails, sliders and jumps, music everyday, picnic areas and camp sites. 3050 Marlin Road, Johns Island. For more info, call Matt  at 559-2520 or email  Matt@ CarolinaWatersports.com.

Sunday, June 7 4th annual Tricounty Cancer Survivors Event At the Charleston Elk Lodge off Cosgrove Avenue. Please register online at www.tricountysurvivors.org or by www.islandconnectionnews.com

of the Carolina coast. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. For more info, contact Guest Services at 768-6491. National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation Golf Tournament The Tri-County Fire Chief’s Association and the St. Johns Fire Department are holding a golf tournament to raise funds for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation at Oak Point Golf Course with a shotgun start at 9am. The cost is $85 per golfer. Application and sponsorship forms can be obtained from either Battalion Chief Wayne Carter, [email protected], or Fire Chief Karl Ristow, [email protected]. Moonlight Mixer Dance the night away under the stars at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier with the return of the popular Moonlight Mixers. From 7pm – 11pm, local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around.  Advance tickets are $10 and $8 for Charleston County residents.  If available, tickets purchased on-site are $10.  Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com. Mullet Hall Open Trail Ride Bring your horse, camping gear, and supplies for two nights of camping and trail riding on 20 miles of beautiful, wooded trails. A limited number of camping hookups are available for $15 per night.  Primitive camping allowed free of charge.  Fee includes a stall for one horse and one bag of shavings (additional bags $6/bag).  Pre-registration required by Friday, June 12.  Call 795-4FUN (4386) to register, or call 768-5867 for more info. Fee: $35/$25 MHEC Trail Pass Holder. Jun 12-14, 12pm (Fri) - 4pm (Sun).

Saturday, June 13 4th Annual Hydrangea Festival From 10am – 4pm, visitors may take a leisurely self-guided tour among the several acres of hydrangea gardens. From 12pm until 1:30pm, enjoy lunch at tables set up next to the hydrangea and rose fields. Lunch is $12, but the advice and tours are free. Rosebank Farms is located at 4455 Betsy Kerrison Parkway on Johns Island, just before the Kiawah/Seabrook traffic circle. For more info, call 7680508 or [email protected]

May 29, 2009

Do you know your Charleston?

15

An informal tea By David Farrow

I

had occasion to go to the First Flush Tea Festival at the Charleston Tea Plantation a couple of Saturdays ago. It was out on Wadmalaw Island, not far from Rockville. As my friend John Trott, whose father lives a stone’s throw from the property, reminded me, the plantation was started as an experiment by the Lipton Company back in the 60s. I want to congratulate the PR departments of “The Bridge” at 105.5 and the tea plantation. The event was a family affair, replete with funnel cakes and attracted thousands of people with young families, as well as senior citizens, out to a great concert on a perfect May afternoon. I went by myself. I sat under a sprawling live oak, its tendrils draping the ground

which was splashed with shafts of sunlight, and enjoyed some iced tea and tomato pie, grooved on the music and watched thousands of people parade in front of me. It was an incredible cross-section of Lowcountry humanity, from toddlers to people on walkers, and all races passing by. There were all types: from a young girl with green hair and darned attractive nose rings dressed in a manner that one hoped her mother knew nothing about, to women in their 60s, walking erect and proud with a confidence borne only by living life head on. Lawyers and executives dressed casually in polo shirts and khaki shorts, hippies strolled by in jeans and old men with their pants up around their sternums shuffled along.

There were an inordinate amount of young parents who knew nothing of the recession. On the whole there was money; not scads of money, but these people were either keeping up with their bills or on their appearances. What struck me the most, though, was that I didn’t know a single one of them. Who on earth were these people? I reflected back some 30 years when I went to the Spoleto finale at Middleton Place. That also attracted quite an eclectic crowd and was certainly a high point of my year. The thing is that even though there were thousands there, you could always find a couple of hundred people with whom you had at least a nodding acquaintance.

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 Wee Reads (under 24 months with adult) Monday, June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 at 10:30am

*Internet Basics (adults) Tuesday, June 23 from 10am – 12 noon *Keyboard Basics (adults) Tuesday, June 9 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.

Saturday Family Storytime (all ages) Saturday, June 13, 20, and 27 at 11am

Read-a-Palooza: A Community Carnival at the Library! (all ages) Saturday, June 6 from 1 – 4pm Join us for our 3rd Annual Read-APalooza Festival with games, crafts, a jump castle and summer reading signup!   Porkchop Productions: Little Red Riding Hood (ages 11 years old and younger) Monday, June 8 at 2pm

*Computer Basics (adults) Tuesday, June 2 from 10am – 12 noon

Club Anime! (ages 12-19) Tuesday, June 9 from 4 - 5:30pm

*Files and Folders: File Organization and Management (adults/young adults) Tuesday, June 16 from 10am – 12 noon

Wired (rising 6-12 graders)Wednesdays, June 10, 17, and 24 from 2:30 – 4:30pm

Time for Twos (2 – 3 years old with adult) Tuesday, June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 10:30am Preschool Storytime (3 – 6 years) Wednesday, June 3, 10, 17, and 24 at 10:30am

Saturday Movie: Bolt (all ages) Saturday June 13 at 3pm Rated; PG; 96 minutes. The Great Fettuccini: professional juggler (ages 11 years old and younger) Monday, June 15 at 2pm Sea Islands Book Club (adults) Tuesday, June 16 at 2pm We’ll be discussing The Wedding Machine by Beth Webb Hart. Club Anime! (ages 12-19) Saturday, June 20 from 3 - 4:30pm Puppet Show: The Three Little Fishies and the Big, Bad Shark (ages 11 years old and younger) Monday, June 22 at 2pm. An underwater twist on “The Three Little Pigs”   A Southern Tea Party (ages 11 years old and younger) Monday, June 29 at 2pm. Learn about the history of tea with Margarita Hart from the Charleston Tea Plantation.

Knitting Group (adults) Thursdays, June 11 and 25, from 6 – 7:30pm

www.islandconnectionnews.com

Not so here. There wasn’t even a faint glimmer of recognition as the procession moved on. Finally, I heard a voice call my name, and I discovered my friend John Trott right behind me. I sat with him and his neighbors, one of whom I vaguely knew, and had a perfectly grand afternoon. Trott was as puzzled and amazed as I at the fact that we didn’t know anyone. I’ve known John for almost 50 years (that’s a little scary) and between us, I would say we have at least a few thousand people with whom we could strike up a conversation. We were bemused. There were a lot of factors: our age, the influx of population, etc., but one thing struck me in the midst of our ruminations under the oaks. The children in strollers will see a totally different world 50 years from now. Not only will every vestige of the Old South be obliterated, but, I suspect the New South will be a memory as well. Half a century from now, I have serious doubts that we will be celebrating Confederate Memorial Day or Carolina Day on the Battery, despite the best efforts of my contemporaries. There simply won’t be enough people to care. Those two Charleston holidays – one signifying great victory, the other ignominious defeat – will be replaced by other more relevant occasions celebrating other victories. The events leading up to the commemorations will not even be mentioned in the history books. It didn’t matter that grand afternoon. Given the events unfurling in all of our lives, I suspect it soon might, but as John and I stood eating boiled peanuts and laughing, there were enough distractions to not think about the “uncertain” future (when on earth was it ever certain?). Reality was Shawn Mullins, iced tea, laughs with an old friend and a sterling afternoon in May. Sometimes, that’s as good as it gets. Want to read more? Visit David Farrow’s blog at davidfarrow.wordpress.com.