Island Connection

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON SC PERMIT NO 437Volume 3 Issue 4 FREE June 12, 2009 Mt. Zion’s adventure in Washington “I t was Mary Pickersgill, not Betsy Ross, who made the first American flag,” said a young fifth grade student named Sergio as he and 32 of his classmates sat in a semi-circle in the Mount Zion Elementary library. “It was the first flag of the nation and it flew over Fort McHenry in 1812.” Several other hands shot into the air as students eagerly added details and gave their own account of their hands-on experience with history during a much anticipated trip to Washington D.C. this past May 18 through 22. Renditions of Abraham Lincoln’s last moments between Ford’s Theater and the Petersen’s House where he died flew through the air, followed by stories of giant squid and how the little Remora suckerfish live in harmony with giant sharks; facts that the students learned through an amazing 3-D movie at the Smithsonian. Another student talked quietly about the children’s wall at the Holocaust memorial and how they saw the different parts of Daniel’s Story, a collection of actual children’s stories from the holocaust combined and presented as the story of one child, on display; “His bed was so small. And it had holes in it,” she said, referencing the bed that Daniel slept in while his family was forced to hide in the ghetto. Later, when the class visited the Roosevelt Memorial, one student said how much she admired Eleanor Roosevelt for supporting the Tuskegee Airmen and her strong support of desegregation and providing opportunities for African Americans. When they passed the White House on their last day in Washington D.C, the students knew that the President was in residence because the flag was flying over the building. There aren’t many ways in which a teacher can practically guarantee their students will not only learn, but retain the important information they learn in school for years to come, but the students who went on this field trip to Washington, D.C. will be remembering facts about American History that they will one day share with their grandchildren. However, it wasn’t an easy task to raise enough money to take 33 public school students on a five day trip to our country’s capitol. It took a solid school year’s worth of fundraising and some pretty creative ideas on both the teachers’ and students’ parts to raise the roughly $10,000 needed for the trip. One of the first fundraising efforts included something the teachers probably hadn’t done since they were in their teens: slinging fries and flipping burgers at McDonald’s. Through a national program hosted by McDonald’s called “McTeachers”, public school teachers and their students have the opportunity to work for a few hours at a local McDonald’s and receive a percentage of sales, as well as any tips given to the student “waiters”. Other efforts included a bake sale, a Halloween party, Carnation-grams wherein students bought carnations which were delivered to a student of their choice, a lemonade stand in front of the Family Dollar at the corner of Maybank and Bohicket, a spaghetti night for the PTA, wrapping gifts at Barnes & Noble during the Christmas season, donut sales, selling school supplies and selling tickets to participate in “theme days” such as Groovy Day, Wacky Hat day, Pajama Day and Sports Day. One of the most remarkable fundraisers was an art show featuring the works of the Mt. Zion students. Paintings, photos and compositions adorned the school library as parents, teachers and volunteers perused the selection, making bids on their favorites. Over 80 pictures were sold at the event, due mostly to “a lot of kindhearted people who wanted us to get to D.C.,” said fifth grade teacher and trip coordinator, Erin Bianco. In the end, the students would never have made it to Washington if it hadn’t been for all the help they received from locals and volunteers. “We couldn’t have gone on our trip if it hadn’t been for our volunteers from Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns Island,” said Bianco. “Several companies donated to the cause as well and we are so thankful to all of them.” (Top) Mt. Zion fifth graders. (above) Students sold thier own art work and photos to raise money for their trip to Washington D.C. I n s id e t h e I sl a nd Con nection. . . page 4 turtle rescue page 8 Are you prepAred? page 10 bunting benefits 2 Town financials Revenues for the month of April: $46,847.30 ($1,956.00 positive variance from budget). Expenditures for the month of April: $35,115.58 ($9,310.26 less than budgeted). “We’ve done a little better than planned,” reported Mayor McNulty. “We expected business licenses to be Seabrook Town Council – May 26, 2009 lower than they were, but we’re still significantly behind last year. In fact, we’re $63,681.99 behind last year-todate.” The Mayor also pointed out that the positive variances in the budget were also a matter of timing. The auditing bill had not come in yet, and an insurance bill had not yet been paid, “So we’re pretty much where we expected to be,” he said. He also noted that the recently announced cut in Accomodations Tax money from the County would not impact the Town until August. Most municipalities will see their ATAX funds cut by 25%. Finally, the Mayor noted that the State will be picking up the cable franchise fee for most municipalities next year and sending the check to the Town, instead of the cable companies going directly through the municipalities as they’ve done in the past. “Basically, when we want to renew the cable company’s franchise, we have to renew it with the state, and they allocate the money to us,” said the Mayor. Councilman Holtz frowned and statedthat “the state will starve municipalities for their own budget.” take out the old Island House, too,” Councilman Holtz joked. Council agreed to increase the firework funds to $10,000 for an extended and enhanced fireworks show for 2009. Disaster Awareness Day Town Administrator Peirce noted that the Town’s Disaster Awareness Day would be held with Kiawah for the second year in a row at the Kiawah Sandcastle on June 4 from 10am – 3pm. Peirce noted that he would get in touch with Kiawah and make sure they received the $1500 that they agreed to donate to the program. The funds would mainly go toward purchasing giveaways which were distributed through raffle drawings throughout the day. The Mayor stated that he could not attend the program that day, but suggested that a member of Council attend to represent the Town. He also asked that it be suggested to Kiawah that next year’s Disaster Awareness Day be held in Freshfields so that more people would attend; not only from Kiawah and Seabrook, but from the surrounding areas, as well. Council reports Councilman Cummin reported that he would be attending the I-526 shareholders meeting at the Town and Country Inn in West Ashley on May 27 as a representative of Seabrook Island. Councilman Savin asked the Mayor about the balance of the Town’s general fund. “How much do we have?” He asked. The Mayor replied that it was about $1.13 million. “Do we have money set aside separately for emergencies?” He asked. The Mayor said yes, but seemed confused as to why Savin was asking. “Anything else?” He asked. Savin shook his head no and thanked him for the information. Councilman Holtz reported that June 12, 2009 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] 843-327-2662 Interns Micah Brown Ellie Smith Evans Craddock Contributors Jennifer Barbour Marcia Cassell Charleston County Dr. Sue Holloman Dwight S. Ives Emily Laurie Juan Martin Lynn Morgenstern Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Future deadlines: June 17 for submissions. he went to the Johns Island Council meeting earlier in the month and noted that at least two people in the audience that night were quite insistent about the Council’s road committee coming to a consensus on the I-526 issue. “I think we’ll see more action on the roads issue from Johns Island,” he noted. Mayor McNulty asked if they had an opinion already and Holtz said that they didn’t as of the last meeting. “They’re a good advisory group and they’re doing good work, but they need to put a little meat on their slogans,” he said. Ordinance 2009-03: line of succession for Mayor – first reading “I just wanted to change this so that there wouldn’t be any confusion,” said the Mayor. The language was changed to read that the most senior “in terms of age” would act as Mayor in the temporary absence or sickness of the public safety officer, who immediately succeeds the Mayor Pro Tempore, who succeeds the Mayor. The previous language simply read “the most senior”. Council approved the first reading unanimously. A public hearing for this ordinance will be held just before the regular Town Council meeting next month. Ordinance 2009-02: Planning Commission term limits – second reading The ordinance basically changes Planning Commission terms from three years to two. “This doesn’t’ effect anyone on the Planning Commission currently,” said the Mayor. “Only those elected in the future.” As there were no speakers for the public hearing on ordinance 200902, Council passed the second reading of the ordinance unanimously. Celebrating the Fourth of July “I assume we’re having a Fourth of July parade?” Mayor McNulty asked the Council. Everyone nodded and Town Administrator Peirce said he would get the same car as last year. Councilman DuBois suggested doing new decorations, but the Council pointed out that they’d only just changed the decorations for the car last year, and they really didn’t need to shake it up two years in a row. As for the fireworks, the company supplying this year’s explosive holiday display informed the Council that, for an extra $2500, they could extend the show to 20 minutes (as opposed to the typical 12 – 14 minutes) and add a little more bang for their buck. “For $15,000, they’ll Monday, June 15 Civic Calendar Berkeley Electric Co-Op on Maybank Rd. Kiawah Island Board of Zoning Appeals 4pm - 5pm Town Hall Council Chambers Friday, July 3 Independence Day Kiawah offices will be closed Tuesday, June 23 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. Monday, July 6 Kiawah Island Environmental Committee 3pm - 5pm Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room 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 Wednesday, July 1 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. Tuesday, July 7 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 Thursday, July 2 Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC Publishers of Island Eye News, The Island Connection and The Folly Current. Kiawah Island Arts Council 3pm - 5pm Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room Johns Island Council Meeting 7pm – 8pm Wednesday, July 8 Kiawah Island Planning Commission 3pm - 5pm Town Hall Council Chambers www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 3 Kiawah Island Council – June 2, 2009 Dumpster maintenance service contract Council agreed to award a contract for services to clean the area around the dumpster on Sora Rail Road to Barnard Glover, with whom the Town has had a verbal contract for several years. The contract is not to exceed $10,000 per year. Councilman Orban pointed out that he would like the rate for Barnard Glover included in the contract. Town Attorney Dennis Rhoad stated that the rate was $10/per hour and Town Administrator Tumiko Rucker said that she would include the rate in the contract. Janitorial contract Sandra Perkins, who has been with the Town since its inception according to Rucker, has asked for a rate increase for her janitorial services. After a considerable amount of review, Rucker and the Ways and Means committee recommended a rate increase from $21,000/yr to $25,000/yr for a two year period. Councilman Orban again requested that the contract include the rate, which was determined to be $1833/ per month. Optional services include the cleaning of upholstery and the carpets, which would be $1500 each. The optional services can only be requested twice per year, according to the contract. CARTA budget for 2009-2010 As the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) is required to present their yearly budget to each of the municipalities which they service, CARTA submitted their budget to the Town of Kiawah for approval. The Town approved CARTA’s budget unanimously. Island wide recycling project report “And now for the fun part of the meeting,” smiled Mayor Wert, acknowledging that there had been a number of misinterpretations about the island wide recycling project as it had been reported in the Town Notes; “mainly from acts of omission rather than commission,” he stated. He pointed out that the Town put the date of July 1 on the recycling initiative because “if you don’t put a date on it, it doesn’t get done.” He further stated that the project was not going to be pushed down anyone’s throat. The Town will do as much recycling as it can and those that wish to participate are welcome. “We happen to feel that recycling and reducing our carbon footprint is good,” said the Mayor, speaking for the Council. He noted that there will probably be a cost for the services. “We will be proceeding for those that want to join, but that’s where we stand and we, the Town and the Resort will, in fact, start this initiative on July 1.” Tumiko Rucker pointed out that most of the cost for the service will be underwritten by the Town, stating that “the same savings and subsidies will be passed along to anyone participating in recycling, whether they are a condominium or a single family home.” Councilman Lipuma also noted that he had also been approached by some islanders confused about the initiative, and stated that he wanted to clear up the fact that curbside services will continue and they will not be charged. If they wish, they can pick up a 65 gallon container for recycling, and if they didn’t want to, they don’t have to. This is for every single family home that has curb service today. Different sized containers are also available, including some with wheels for ease of movement. Councilman Orban further noted that the recycling is entirely voluntary and Rucker stated that she is speaking with the different regimes who are still trying to decide whether or not they would like to participate. As of the date of the meeting, four regimes were on board and had already picked up containers. Councilman McHugh reminded everyone that this program was created in an effort to enhance services, not to force a behavioral direction. During citizen’s comments, several residents voiced their concerns over the recycling project. A representative of the Tennis Club Villas stated that her regime wished to wait on their decision to participate in the initiative until they saw the program work in another sprawledformat regime. She also stated that, by placing the recycling center in the middle of the regime, it would be a long walk for several residents to get rid of their recycling. However, they would like to have as much information about the recycling program as possible, including the location of all recycling sites on the island. One citizen asked what the cost of recycling will be to individuals and whether or not it was mandatory. (The Mayor later stated that the recycling initiative was not mandatory.) Another resident stated that he had come to a meeting about the island wide recycling project with the expectation of gathering a lot of details about the project to take back to his regime and did not get that, “So I would like more details so that we can all accomplish what we’d like to accomplish,” he said. Lastly, in response to one citizen’s comments about recycling and its inclusion in the Town’s solid waste disposal rules, the Mayor stated that about four years ago, “in a spirit of socialism”, the Town agreed to underwrite the cost of curbside pick up for single family residences, and that includes both trash and recycling. There are still fees for back road service and Saturday service, because there are many different types of services that are offered, as requested by the island residents. The Town is still trying to come up with one system that covers all, “but right now, there could be a cost and the recycling initiative is still a work in progress”. Ordinance review: Article 8 – Restraint of Pets Mayor Wert noted that there have been a number of incidents on the island where dogs have been outside of the home, off leash and not under voice command and have been jumping on people and injuring them. “We’ve had serious injuries because of this,” said the Mayor. “One Councilman was even chased recently by a dog while he was riding his bike.” He stated that this should be an issue for all of Kiawah Island and not just the beach (the ordinance falls under the Beach Management Act). Because of this, the Town will be looking at the current ordinance and creating strong penalties for animals not on a leash or under voice control. “We need to look into how we can protect our citizens from these attacks by out of control animals.” Councilman Burnaford pointed out that section 16-502 of the Beach Management Act states that the law applies to all pets within Town limits and further noted that residents need to have their pets under control. During citizen’s comments, resident Marilyn Olson stated that she had been attacked by a dog several years ago and noted that the Town has many more guests arriving with dogs. She encouraged the Town to get with rental companies in enforcing any ordinances that are made to protect people from loose, out of control animals. Another citizen concurred, stating that Charleston County has a leash law and even if the Town does not have a specific regulation, the County does and the law should be enforced. Approval of KINHC and KICA Guest Guide The Mayor stated that funds were set aside for the guest guides every year and it was stated by several Council members that the maps were difficult to read and requested that the font size be increased for this year’s printing. Last year, 100,000 of the guest guides were printed out, and only 10 are left. Councilman Lipuma thanked the Community Association for their speed in creating the larger font maps. The expenditure of accommodation tax funds for the guest guides was approved. Arts Council Councilman Lipuma noted that the Blues in the Night performance will be the big performance for the 2008-2009 Arts Council Season. It will be held on Sunday, June 14, at the River Course at 4pm. In order to attend, one must purchase a $25 ticket for the buffet. He noted that the tickets became available on June 1 and 204 of the 300 tickets have already been purchased. “Besides the event itself, it’s a really good meal,” said the Mayor. Bikepath and Parkway Councilman Orban stated that Berkeley Electric is not installing the conduits along the Kiawah Island Parkway as fast as the Town hoped and the Town has already held two meetings with them to encourage faster progress. “Our plan was to start our project in June and keep the pressure on Berkeley, but we do need them out of the way so we can bring the fill in and move along on the project.” He noted that the bridge work is scheduled to begin in July and a lot of the work will be done from a barge in the river. There might be occasional management of traffic, but not much. “Once we get Berkeley out of the way, we’ll begin moving along nicely,” said Orban. “Hopefully, we’ll really get going this June and July. Landscaping will be done in the fall.” Environmental report Councilman McHugh noted that the KI Council continued on page 12 www.islandconnectionnews.com 4 Muddy rescue on Kiawah By JUAN MARtIN June 12, 2009 t was a nice day on Kiawah Island the morning of June 5, when best friends John Peebles and Frank Chapman decided to go out for a bike ride on the beach. The two 13 year old boys were looking to enjoy their last day on the island before returning to their homes in Columbia, SC. As every other boy at that age, they wanted to have fun, spend some time together and enjoy the beach one last time. By the end of the day, they were in the middle of a tale that only a few are lucky enough to hear about; let alone live. While pedaling around Captain Sam’s inlet, they saw something strange in the mud. As they got closer, they discovered a sea turtle trapped in a murky hole. Without hesitation they rushed to their bikes and searched for help, and that help came in the form of Beach Patrolman Joe Hamilton. Hamilton immediately contacted the Town of Kiawah and reported the finding. Within 12 minutes, Code Enforcement Officers along with Turtle Patrol director Joe Pezzullo and fellow member Art Zackerson were on the scene. After struggling with the mud, the daring crew managed to free the 60 lb. Loggerhead and release her back into the ocean. For the Enforcement Officers, the Beach Patrolman and the Turtle Patrol, this was just a day at the office, but for Frank and John this was the kind of adventure you hear about around campfires and family gatherings. Along with their honorary membership, the two boys received two turtle patrol T-shirts, a copy of this edition of The Island Connection, the deepest gratitude of a Sea Turtle, and most importantly, one memory of Kiawah Island that will last a lifetime. (top) Frank and John help transport the Loggerhead turtle. (above) Frank Chapman, Joe Pezzulo, John Peebles and Art Zackerson helped to return the young Thank you, boys, for a job well done! Loggerhead to the ocean. I www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 Wind and hail: are you covered? By KRIStIN HACKLER Insurance. While the expansion has helped many homeowners find wind and hail coverage, it has created a desperate real estate problem in Mount Pleasant. When establishing their lines, the Wind Pool designated Highway 17 at the dividing line for insurance coverage in Mount Pleasant. As a result, homeowners on one side of Highway 17 are having a very difficult time selling their homes as buyers simply cross the highway for better insurance coverage. When Bustos asked the Wind Pool speaker, S.C. Department of Insurance Director Scott Richardson, why the highway was chosen as the dividing line, Richardson replied that the line was drawn according to models that took into account input from individuals as well as companies and stress on the market. Bustos attempted to get specifics from Richardson, but was unable. After waiting for a clear answer, Bustos finally said, “So, the bottom line is, there’s no data.” Richardson became agitated and said that Bustos was obviously only attending the meeting to cause trouble. “It’s not like we poured a cup of coffee and said, ‘Let’s put the line on Highway 17’,” said Richardson. “This isn’t personal. You ask, and we look into it. We do all we can and then take it to the legislature. We can’t do anything without the permission of the legislature.” Seabrook resident Bill Mowat stated that he was “dissatisfied by the general nature of the responses” from director Richardson. “He provided insufficient specifics on what appears to be the inaccuracy of the models,” said Mowat, in reference to the privately owned models which the Wind Pool uses to determine rate structures and coverage areas. “We’ll work with other coastal communities to build our coalition [Wind and Hail Insurance Group, or WHIG]. We’ll work with the legislative side with Glenn McConnell and monitor what’s happening with the Wind Pool.” Glenn McConnell himself, who also attended the meeting, is anxiously awaiting a response from the Legislative Audit Council concerning several questions he has about the Wind Pool and their modeling methods. In a letter addressed to Director Schroeder of the Legislative Audit Council only three days after the Omnibus Coastal Property Insurance Reform Act of 2007 was released, McConnell asked why so many of his constituents either had their insurance policies cancelled, were being charged astronomical insurance premiums or couldn’t find any insurance at all. “All of this occurred despite the fact that Kevin McCarty, the Florida Insurance Commissioner, testified before Congress on September 13, 2006 that: In stark contract to Florida, South Carolina has not had a major storm since Hurricane Hugo in 1989. South Carolina adopted the 1996 International Building Codes in 1997. South Carolina has been at the forefront of the regulatory modernization and is considered a model regulatory environment by many insurers. Yet, South Carolina is experiencing a near meltdown in its coastal insurance market similar to Florida. Admitted carriers are increasing rates by 100 to 200 percent, decreasing coverage by requiring 5 to 10 percent deductibles, non-renewing long-term policyholders, and discontinuing writing new business in certain areas. Surplus lines carriers are increasing rates even more; as much as 700 percent. Condominiums are particularly hard hit as insurers seem to have just realized that condo projects represent a significant concentration of 5 T he sound of open palms slapping into the grip of a microphone sounded a lot like gloves hitting the floor as island residents demanded answers from the South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association during a public hearing at the Citadel’s Mark Clark Hall on May 28: though the term “public hearing” might have been an overstatement. “It was the public hearing that wasn’t,” said Mount Pleasant Councilman Joe Bustos. “They left me with more questions than I came in with. Not only was it not a public hearing, it happened several months too late,” he said, in reference to the extension of the Wind Pool’s coverage area. In March of 2007, the Director of Insurance for South Carolina temporarily expanded the Wind Pool’s coverage area and provided that additional expansion would continue to be analyzed while the initial expansion was implemented. When the extension expired on March 29, 2009, it was decided that the temporary expansion would continue until March 29, 2011, as the expansion “has improved the availability of coverage to South Carolina coastal property owners and reduced the number of consumers who were unable to find coverage. Allowing the order to expire or deciding not to renew the order could result in significant market disruptions”, according to the State of South Carolina Order No. 2009-001 before the State of South Carolina Department of risk in a confined area. One condominium development saw its premium increased from $126,000 to $879,000 and it took five different insurers to piece together the coverage. South Carolina has done everything the Insurance Industry says needs to be done to create the kind of freemarket environment that would enable the private sector to handle this problem, and yet, we are not seeing any relief from the lack of availability and affordability.” Among several other more pointed questions, McConnell asked “how the Wind Pool, which is an association of insurance companies, [could] be reformed so that it is an instrument that benefits the policy holders as much as the industry?” Attendees to the public hearing left with the same advice as they had going in: shop around for Wind and Hail insurance coverage on a regular basis, and check on it at least every three years. The Wind Pool, as director Richardson put it, is not cheap because it is a last alternative and “We want to encourage people to look for other alternatives before coming to us.” For more information about The Wind and Hail Insurance Group (WHIG), contact Roberta Boatti at 768-6930. For more information about the South Carolina Wind Pool, visit www. scwind.com. What is the South Carolina Wind Pool? The South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association (SCWHUA) is the residual property insurance market in South Carolina. It provides coverage for the perils of wind and hail in the coastal area of the state designated by the Legislature as “Beach.” The territory is defined by state law. Although its official name is the South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association, it is often referred to as the Beach Plan or Wind Pool. It is an Association of insurance companies which makes wind and hail property insurance available to people and businesses in the coastal area who are not able to buy it through the standard insurance market. In 1971, the South Carolina Legislature required the insurance industry to make wind and hail insurance coverages available to home and business owners in the coastal area. This action was necessary because some residents and business owners were unable to obtain wind and hail coverages due to close proximity to coastline. The Association has served as a tremendous benefit for businesses and residents living in the beach region of the state. www.islandconnectionnews.com Are you ready? The public can go to www.charlestoncounty.org and click on the “Are You Ready?” banner on the front page of the County’s website to download, print, and share: · The 2009 Charleston County Hurricane Preparedness Guide (in English and Spanish) · The 2009 Disabilities and Special Needs Emergency Preparedness Guide Information in the 2009 Charleston County Hurricane Preparedness Guide includes: · Evacuation information and routes out of Charleston County · Shelters in Charleston County · What to do if you don’t have transportation – look for pick-up point signs posted around the county! · Definitions and what you need to do during hurricane watches, warnings and tropical storms. · Rules to know and items to bring if you have to bring your pet to the pet shelter. · Preparations for your home and your family before the storm. · What you need to have in your emergency supplies kit. · What to do after a storm, including safety measures and handling debris. · A family communications plan form to fill out. · Important phone numbers. The guide will also run throughout hurricane season on the Comcast governmentaccess channel 60. Visit the Charleston County Web site at www.charlestoncounty. org for news, services and up-to-date information relating to Charleston County Government. M PROvIDED By CHARLEStON COUNty possible and everyone along the coast is strongly encouraged to make travel arrangements in advance of an evacuation order. “Because of the low-lying areas in our county, we will never have enough safe shelter space for all of the residents who live here. Therefore, we encourage everyone who has the means to leave town to do so and to consider shelters only as a last resort when they have nowhere else to go,” Haynes said. “You don’t have to wait until a voluntary or mandatory evacuation order is issued. If you can, leave as early as possible to make your trip easier and to help relieve the traffic congestion on our roads.” Charleston County encourages citizens who do not have transportation to know about their Evacuation Pick-Up Points, noted by blue signs along major roads throughout the Lowcountry. In the event of a mandatory evacuation, busses will transport citizens from the 79 pick-up points across the County to the nearest available Red Cross shelter. “It is vital for residents in our community who don’t have transportation to know where their nearest pick-up point is before the next hurricane approaches our coast,” Haynes said. “It takes all of us working together to make sure our citizens and neighbors are prepared and safe.” ost people know that June 1 marked the beginning of the 2009 hurricane season, and most people have probably heard the predictions for this year, so they realize that there is real potential for a storm to hit the east coast. But are most people prepared? Are you prepared? Cathy Haynes, Director of Charleston County’s Emergency Preparedness Division, wants residents to know that they need to get their family’s emergency plan in place and put together their emergency supply kit prior to a storm. Now is the time to get ready, and it’s easy with the help of the new 2009 Charleston County Hurricane Guide available at www.charlestoncounty.org. “Charleston County Government is always preparing for a storm and working with other local and state agencies to do so, but everyone has an individual responsibility to get prepared and make sure their family has a plan,” Haynes said. “Churches and civic groups can also help by printing the small booklet guide for those who do not have access to the internet. Our entire community needs to help spread the word.” Haynes also reminds the public that they should plan to leave town if at all Pack your pets By EMILy LAURIE 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. Assemble a portable pet disaster supplies kit and include medications, medical 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 which Be Red Cross ready W T By NaNcy OlsON he American Red Cross, Carolina ones safer and bring peace of mind. Be Lowcountry Chapter has been Red Cross Ready in 2009 by taking three preparing for this hurricane season simple actions to prepare for disaster and since the close of hurricane season 2008. other emergencies: 1) Get a kit, 2) Make a The Red Cross has been reviewing all plan and 3) Be informed. shelter agreements, identifying additional “Preparing for disasters ahead of time vendors, training its community partners, helps people stay safer and empowers them recruiting and training new volunteers and to be better able to respond to disasters working with area governmental agencies and other life-threatening emergencies,” to best ensure readiness as we enter June, said Louise Welch, Regional Executive the official start to the Hurricane Season. Director. “The Red Cross is here to ensure The Red Cross encourages everyone to Red Cross continued on page 8 do something that will keep their loved assist people with disabilities are the only animals allowed in Red Cross shelters. Pet Helpers is 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 any emergences, please contact animal control at 202-1700 or your local police. For more hurricane preparation tips, visit www.pethelpers.org. www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 A little Coco makes everything better By EvANS CRADDOCK “Rein and Shine” hunter pace and trail ride 7 B ring your horse out on Saturday, June 20, and join Poplar Grove residents in support of a great cause! Popular Grove, in conjunction with therapeutic riding center Rein and Shine, will be hosting a trail ride competition at the Poplar Grove Seed Orchard starting between 8am and 12 noon. Divisions are Field Hunter (to be ridden at a good, but safe, hunting pace) and Hill Topper/Trail Rider (to be ridden at your leisure). Entry fees range from $20 for non-riders to $55 for horse/riders who register on the day of the event. A delicious catered lunch is included in the entry fee and will be provided on the grounds. A refreshment stop midway through the ride will be provided for both horses and riders. Two course options offer either a short four mile course, or an 8 – 10 mile long course. Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams in both Divisions based on “optimum times”. there will also be a special prize for “Best Turned Out Team”. In addition, there will be drawings for items donated by Island House Stable Appointments. 100% of all proceeds will benefit the Rein and Shine therapeutic riding center. For more information or to register, please contact Dee Ann Bauer at dbhunterpace@gmail. com or 270-5040. Rein and Shine’s mission is to create and sustain an equine assisted therapy facility where people with disabilities of all kinds can learn, grow, and heal. To find out more about this organization, visit www.reinandshine.org. T oday’s current housing market is one of the worst in our country’s history. Business is slow, and many construction companies are being forced to stop work all together. So what exactly is a small construction company to do in these hard times? For Coco Construction, LLC, they’re taking the bad times and turning them into new opportunities. “Obviously these are tough times to be starting a company,” says Brian Coco, owner of Coco Construction, “but we feel that our size and lack of overhead provides us with a certain advantage over the other builders that we compete with.” Started by Brian Coco in June of 2007, Coco Construction builds and renovates homes throughout the Lowcountry. Currently, the company is constructing a new home on Kiawah Island, as well as managing a renovation. Coco Construction has faced its share of setbacks, but their attitude always stays positive. Brian Coco believes that even in hard times like these, it can be the perfect time to build or renovate a home. “The decrease in the amount of available work and the increase in the amount of available workers, along with decreases in raw material costs, are the perfect conditions for a great construction value in the resort island home sector,” Coco says. While the economy has forced Coco Construction to re-examine and change many aspects of how their company works, their passion for the environment has always remained the same. A member of the United States Green Building Council, the company has been “going green” long before it was in style. “We consider ourselves to be good stewards to the community and especially the environment here on the island,” Coco says. Coco says he even recalls a particular instance when Dan Mikula, another member of the Coco Construction team, went through great pains to ensure an animal’s safety on the jobsite, relocating it three different times since its surroundings had been greatly altered by the construction of a new home. All business aside, however, it’s the people on the islands that make Coco Construction’s job worthwhile. Coco says that their families are involved with the families of their clients, and that it’s very gratifying to be a part of such a trustworthy service. Travis Young, island local and employee of Coco Construction, agrees that doing construction on the islands can be very rewarding, but its the final result that he loves most. “Seeing the reaction on the clients face, when they see the finished product; it’s always good.” For more information about Coco Construction, LLC, call 737-1639. www.islandconnectionnews.com 8 Firefighter Stewart, Fire Chief Carter, Fire Chief Smith and Firefighter Whaley of the St. Johns Fire Department. June 12, 2009 Disaster preparati O n June 4, Kiawah and Seabrook Islands hosted their second annual joint Disaster Awareness Day at Kiawah’s Sandcastle. The format for this year’s event was very well thought out, with a panel of professionals discussing each stage of Charleston County’s OPCON (operational control) levels, starting with the County’s current level; OPCON 5. “During hurricane season, June 1 through November 30, Charleston County stays at OPCON 5,” explained Rusty Lameo, Code Enforcement Officer for the Town of Kiawah. OPCON 5 basically means that the County is running in normal conditions, but is ready to handle an incident, should one arise. “It behooves you, this time of year, to put your ducks in a row,” said Lameo. “Because when a storm comes, you’ll be in a rush – so prepare for it.” This sentiment was at the core of the day’s discussions. Get ready, be prepared and leave when the Town and/or County tells you to leave. “We live in Ristow of the St. Johns Fire D well in a disaster, so get out a explain that, during a volunt out of town in any direction and if a mandatory evacuat to follow the routes establis of a category four or five hu Seabrook, Johns and Wadm evacuated as there would be islands. “In a category three seven feet above Betsy Kerri Kiawah Mayor Pro-Temp if a mandatory evacuation is electricity, sewer and water will be on your own,” said B Exchange Club member Kimber Smith helps prepare lunch for the Disaster Awareness Day attendees. Red Cross continued from page 6 that everyone has access to the information that will assist them in being prepared for a disaster.” For more information on how you, your family and your business can prepare for hurricane season, visit www.lowcountryredcross.org or call 764-2323 x 355. If you would like to become a Disaster Trained Red Cross Volunteer, call 764-2323 x 364 or visit www.lowcountryredcross. org for class information. Classes are offered throughout our seven-county service area: Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester, Colleton, Jasper, Hampton and Beaufort Counties. Whether it’s a heart attack or a hurricane, a plea for blood or a cry for help, the American Red Cross is there 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Help people affected by disasters like the rec wildfires by donating to the American Red C Disaster Relief Fund. On those rare occasions wh donations exceed Red Cross expenses for a spec disaster, contributions are used to prepare for a serve victims of other disasters. Your gift enab the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counsel and other assistance to victims of all disast Call 764-2323 x 368 or 1-800-RED-CRO (1-800-733-2767) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spani Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may sent to the Carolina Lowcountry Chapter, 80 Rivers Ave., Suite F, North Charleston, SC, 294 or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 372 Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can m a secure online contribution by visiting ww lowcountryredcross.org or www.redcross.org. www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 Brandon Hinton and Crew Chief Archie Hirschman of Charleston County EMS. 9 ions are underway when one is declared, then the best thing you can do is leave. Presenters at the event included David Dixon of Lipscomb & Pitts, Joe Croughwell of the Kiawah Island Community Association, Rusty Lameo from the Town of Kiawah Island, Yvonne Johnstone from the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Martha Harris from Berkeley Electric, Randy Roberts from Kiawah Island Utility, Shawn Jones from Charleston County Emergency Preparedness, Captain Brady from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Department, Dianna Klein from the American Red Cross, Don Lundy from Charleston County EMS, Chief Karl Ristow from the St. Johns Fire Department, Danny Edward from Phillips and Jordan and Ron Houser from Premier Power Generation. Exhibitors included the Town of Kiawah Island, Kiawah Island Community Association, Phillips and Jordan, St. Johns Fire Department, Charleston County Emergency Preparedness, Charleston County Project Impact, American Red Cross, Kiawah Island Utility, SC Sea Grant Consortium, Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance, Premier Power Generation, Homesafe Fire Protection and the Muhler Company. Attendees were able to speak with all of the event presenters and gather information from each booth. n a land of bridges,” said Fire Chief Department, “and bridges don’t do as soon as you can.” He went on to tary evacuation, residents can drive n that they choose. However, when tion is issued, then evacuees have shed by the County. In the event urricane, all four islands – Kiawah, malaw – will have to be completely e no safe ground anywhere on the hurricane, the water can rise up to ison,” said the Chief. pore Al Burnaford also noted that, s issued, the Town will shut off all within 12 hours. “If you stay, you Burnaford. Mandatory evacuations are a tough decision, as they shut down all of the activities of the County, including the Port, so e . cent Cross hen cific and bles ling ters. OSS ish). y be 085 406 243, make ww. Congratulations to Sarah Andrews and Nathaniel Mansell of Seabrook Island! Andrews and Mansell were named to the College of Charleston Dean’s List for the 2008-2009 year. These students have earned Highly Distinguished recognition (3.8 GPA) for both the fall and spring semesters while enrolled in at least 14 credit hours. Congratulations, CofC students! www.islandconnectionnews.com 10 Latshaw receives NSF Fellowship habitat assessments and preservation, as well as land acquisition decisions.” Other area organizations are also excited about Sarah’s success. The College of Charleston shares its pride in Sarah on its website by noting that the NSF has awarded Fellowships to only 8.6% of its applicants over the past 57 years. As part of her award, Sarah will receive an annual stipend of $30,000 to support her research, plus additional funds for her educational expenses. Sarah’s academic advisor is Paul Nolan, an adjunct professor at the College of Charleston and a professor at The Citadel. The Kiawah Island Golf Resort is also thrilled with Sarah’s accomplishment since Sarah is a Naturalist at the Resort’s Nature Center. As Niki De Weese, Director of Information and Recruitment for the Graduate School, notes, “If I could give [Sarah] a standing ovation [on the internet], I would.” For more information on the Kiawah Conservancy or Painted Bunting research that is now underway, contact the Kiawah Conservancy at 768-2029 or visit us on the web at www.kiawahconservancy.org. Loggerhead Sea Turtle June 12, 2009 T By LyNN MORGENStERN fOR tHE KIAWAH CONSERvANCy hese days, the Kiawah Conservancy is celebrating a very important award. Over the past three years, with financial support from the Conservancy and its donors, naturalist Sarah Latshaw has been conducting research on the habitat requirements of the Painted Bunting. Those in the area familiar with her work place a high value on Sarah’s abilities, and now Sarah has been recognized by the national scientific community, which has awarded her with the prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship. Thanks to this award, Sarah will be able to continue her pursuit of a Masters degree at the College of Charleston and her research topic, “Restoration of Maritime Habitats on the Barrier Island Using the Painted Bunting (Passerina Ciris) as a Flagship Species”. Jim Chitwood, the Chairman of the Conservancy’s Environmental Science Committee, states, “An NSF Graduate Research Fellowship grant recognizes both the student and the quality and value of his/her research. There are only three of these grants in South Carolina this year. We congratulate Sarah on her tremendous achievement and look forward to putting the results of her research to good use in T By JENNIfER BARBOUR Naturalist Meg Hoyle on Kiawah for a complimentary Turtle Talk at the Heron Park Pavilion every Wednesday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Immediately following the talk, Meg will be leading a Loggerhead Crawl beach walk from 7pm to 8pm. Meg is the photo editor of “Sea Turtles of the Atlantic & Gulf Coasts”, has worked with Loggerhead and hawksbill sea turtles in the Caribbean, and has participated in the longest running Loggerhead sea turtle tagging project in the U.S. She is also the director of Learning through Loggerheads, a non-profit organization that provides hands-on science learning for students through a turtle nest protection project. 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 the NOAA fisheries website was used in this article. he Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is one of the most sought out marine creatures for residents and guests alike along our barrier islands. The relatively large head of a Loggerhead contributes to their distinctive name. In addition to feeding on a variety of jellyfish species, their powerful jaws allow them to feed on horseshoe crabs and hard-shelled prey such as whelks and conchs. The carapace (upper shell) length of adults is approximately three feet long, and the average adult weight is roughly 250 lbs. Female Loggerheads in the southeast will typically lay three to five nests, though sometimes more, between May and August. After two months of incubating, the young will hatch sometime between July and October. As of June 2, the Kiawah Island Turtle Patrol has recorded 20 nests. Eleven of those nests have been relocated to safer ground above the high tide line. Based on the nests that were relocated, 1520 eggs total were counted, with a mean clutch size of 138 eggs per nest. Artificial lighting along the beachfront has been blamed for confusing turtle hatchlings and causing them to veer away from their destination; the Atlantic Ocean. By shielding, redirecting, or turning off any lights illuminating the beach or water, residents play a role in the preservation of this species. Interested in learning more about our Loggerhead sea turtles? Join expert 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 Sunset Cruise: Mon - Sat - $60 Near Coastal & Reef Fishing: Daily- $150 Adult Twilight Paddle: Mon, Wed, Fri Night Beach Walk: Mon, Wed, Fri - $10 - $50/$55 Ocean Seining: Mon. through Fri. - $10 All About Snakes: Sun, Tues. - $7 Organic Beach Bag Coloring: Wed - $10 All About Turtles: Thurs. - $7 Pick Up Games: Daily - Free Alligator Adventure: Sun., Tues., Sat. - $20 Recycle Cycle: Wed- $15 Alligator Feeding: Thurs. - Free Reptile Round Up: Mon, Wed - Fri- $7 Back Island Birding: Tues., Fr.i- $25 Sandy Pt. Get-a-Way (motorboat): Birds & Butterflies Walk: Wed., Sat. - $10 Daily- $65 Deep Sea Fishing Charters: Daily Shark Fishing Charter: Daily- $100 Dolphin Encounters (motorboat): Snake Feeding: Tues. - Free Daily- $60 Soccer Demo & Games: Thurs. - Free Family Game Night: Thurs - Free Sundaes w/ Rick Hubbard: Sun. - Free Fly Fishing Charter: Daily - $450 Sundown Festival: Wed. - Free Gator Walk: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri - $12 Surf Fishing: Sun., Tues., Wed. - $25 Happy Hour! (motorboat): Mon - Sat- $50 Surf Kayaking: Mon, Wed, Fri- $50/$55 Inshore Fishing (motorboat): Daily Stepping Stones: Tues- $10-$15 $150 Teen@2: Mon - Fri- $20 Jr. Naturalist-Animal Care: Tues - $15 Teen Night: Gamers’ Network: Thur- Free Jr. Naturalist-Herpetology: Fri - $15 Teen Night: Kiawah Quest!: Wed. - $20 Kamp Kiawah: Mon - Sat - $42-$82 Teen Night: This is my Jam: Fri. - Free Kayak Rentals: Daily - $45/$65 Teen Night: Pool Party: Sun. - Free Kayaking Fishing Tour: Daily - $65-$100 Teen Night: Street Games: Mon. - Free Kayaking Tours: Daily- $30-$55 Teen Night: 3-on-3 Basketball: Tues. Kiawah Night Exploration: Tues., Free Thurs.- $20 Tideland Treasures (motorboat): Daily Kiawah’s Deadliest: Wed., Sat.- $7 Turtle Talk: Wed. - Free Kiawah’s Deadliest Catch (crabbing): Tye Dye: Mon., Fri. - $12 Daily - $65 Walkin’ in the Wild: Thurs - $10 Kid’s Night Out: Mon, Tues, Thurs Watersports Day: Tues. - $150 Sat- $42/$62 Wickets and Wine: Sat. - $15 Loggerhead Crawl: Wed - $15 Wildlife in the Wetlands (bike tour): Morning Fun Run: Daily - Free Tues., Thurs., Sat. - $20 Mosaic Mania: Thur- $10 3-on-3 Basketball: Tues. - Free KIAWAH ISLAND GOLf RESORt RECREAtION www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 11 Memorial Day Kiawah residents and visitors spent a fun afternoon at the Sandcastle this past Memorial Day with food, drinks and games for the whole family. Calling all SEADOGS Patriotic Seabrook dogs and their pets (owners) are invited to participate in the 4th of July Seabrook parade and celebration by either riding on this year’s SEADOG float or cheering from the sidelines. For those of you not “on the wagon”, join the SEADOG cheering section for the parade, where water and dog treats “by Cindy” will be provided. Bring a chair, your favorite companion and a beverage of choice: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere! Any Seabrooker wishing to ride on the SEADOG wagon float captained by Sidi, please contact Meg at 768-1646. www.islandconnectionnews.com 12 Exchange Club recognizes Youth of the Year By SUE HOLLOMAN the SC District organization. She will be attending Winthrop University. Art Jones stated that, “Keenan is an excellent choice and will be an outstanding representative of our Club and the state”. Scholarship Chairman Frank Carrese organized and coordinated the process directed toward selection of scholarship recipients. Those who won scholarships were Nigel Capers who will attend Bob Jones University, Carlton Cohen who is going to the University of South Carolina, Cierra Wrighton who will attend Francis Marion, and Saul Tovar who will attend the College of Charleston. Dr. Youlanda Gibbs, mother of Nigel Capers, was one of the parents in attendance and it was noted that she was a winner of the Youth of the Year scholarship in 1993. She has gone on to complete her degree at the College of Charleston, then a Masters at Wesley in Cambridge, MA and a doctorate from Nova SE. She stated that the funding from the Club and other awards made it possible for her to begin her education. She is a wonderful example of the importance of these scholarships. One of the major objectives for the Exchange Club is Youth Development and Education. Revenue received from the sales of the Telephone Directory advertisements fund these important scholarships. All the students recognized are to be commended for their hard work. The Kiawah-Seabrook Club has done a wonderful job in helping these students fulfill their dreams. June 12, 2009 KI Council continued from page 3 T he Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club presented their Annual Scholarship Awards this past month. The Club also selects a Youth of the Month over a five month period and all of these winners are eligible to be selected for club scholarships and being named “Youth of the Year”. They are honored at Exchange Club meeting and dinners which are held throughout the year. Recipients are seniors who attend schools on Johns Island and are recommended by their schools for these awards. To be named Youth of the Year, students submit an application and write an essay that aids in the selection of the finalist. The theme for this year was, “America’s Youth Stepping Forward to Change the Beat of America”. The criteria are community service, outstanding academic performance, a convincing and well written essay, and participation in extra-curricular activities The Youth of the Month program was begun at the Kiawah- Seabrook Exchange Club 17 years ago by Doug Hurd, who is now Chair-Emeritus. The current Chair is Art Jones. He was assisted in determining the winner by Mr. Hurd and Frank Carrese. Keenan Fisher, from Charleston Collegiate Academy, was selected as the Club’s nominee. She has also been selected as South Carolina’s Exchange Club Youth of the Year and will go on to compete at the national level. She received a $4,000 scholarship from the Club and $2,000 from Environmental Committee did not meet until after the Town Council meeting, but commended Tumiko Rucker for her efforts with the island wide recycling project, despite the controversy. External affairs Councilman Burnaford noted that the “Paul and Al Show” continues to tour around Charleston County. He and Dr. Paul Roberts are continuing to meet with Charleston City and County council members, as well as state employees and members of the DOT concerning the Johns Island Greenway and the completion of interstate 526. “We have been in support of the completion of 526, but out main point is to push the Greenway across Johns Island from 526 to Betsy Kerrison,” said Burnaford. “The real issue is informing people that the traffic projected for the year 2030 can not be handled with any of the solutions chosen by the 526 study without the inclusion of the Johns Island Greenway.” Town Administrator’s report Tumiko Rucker reported that she attended a roundtable discussion between island entities to discuss summer events for the island. An offshoot of the meeting was a request for additional deputy coverage for teen summer evening events at Night Heron Park. The summer code enforcement officer began working this past week as another level of security on the island. Rucker also noted that they would continue to work on the island wide recycling project. A public information meeting concerning the island wide recycling project will be held on June 17 at the Kiawah Sandcastle from 1 to 3pm. Mayor’s report The Mayor reminded everyone that they should attend the Disaster Awareness Day which took place on June 4. “The laws of averages say that we’re going to get hit one of these years, so it’s important that you are aware of the island initiatives and how to prepare yourself.” He also announced that Town Code Enforcement Officer Juan Martin will become a proud father this December. “Juan doesn’t embarrass easily, so this was too much to pass up.” He shook hands with Martin and congratulated him. Citizen’s comments Wendy Kulick stated that she had attended every Disaster Awareness Day event and was always impressed by how the presenters can take the same information and present it in a new and interesting way every time. The event, she noted, was definitely worth attending. Flags stolen If anyone has any information about the five American flags that were stolen from the Freshfields roundabout over the Memorial Day weekend, please call Ron Ritchie at 768-9120. www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 13 CALvARy CHAPEL CHURCH OPENS At SEABROOK REAL EStAtE The Calvary is here PROvIDED By MARCIA CASSELL S ynergism is a term that rarely enters everyday conversation. However, it is the only word that correctly defines the birth of Calvary of the Sea Islands, the new non-denominational church on Johns Island that meets on Sundays at 10am at Seabrook Island Realty. Child care is provided during the service. Brought together by the independent actions of several people, the group began meeting as an incorporated church fellowship on February 15 of this year. Its history can only be told by looking at the separate pieces that were quickly brought together in January of 2009. Many people who have moved to Seabrook and Kiawah during recent years wanted to attend a church without denominational ties that would encourage the residents and visitors to worship God and to study the word of the Bible. Recently, Greg and Shelley Stahly of Kiawah Island decided to open their home for a midweek worship service. They were immediately joined by three other couples from Kiawah, Seabrook, Wadmalaw, and Johns Island. While the coalescing group had agreed on the tenets for a new church, one of the missing links was an ordained minister. Undaunted, the people began The Charles Family: front: Cara. Back left to right: Noah, Alexis, Paul, Nancy, and Lauren. praying for leadership in mid-January. Shortly after the initial meeting, some of the study members were visiting a church on James Island where they heard Pastor Paul Charles, a minister with over 20 years of teaching experience. Charles originally came to Charleston via California to plant a Calvary Chapel church model on the east coast. After leaving the downtown church a few years ago, Charles had also been praying about his ministry and the direction that it should take. He agreed to meet with this core group on Johns Island and immediately felt led to participate in a Thursday evening worship service. After more prayer and with counsel from a Calvary Chapel pastors conference in February, Charles felt called to be a planter of the new church: Calvary of the Sea Islands. The fellowship continued with the Thursday evening Bible study and hoped for a Sunday morning worship service as well. Subsequently, John Morrison and Greg Stahly began looking for a central place to worship that would not involve a pass from either the Kiawah or Seabrook gate. To find out what might be available, they met with Joe Salvo, Broker in Charge for Seabrook Island Real Estate. Salvo immediately and generously offered the upstairs meeting space at the Seabrook Island Real Estate building. Services began there the following Sunday. The church is now incorporated as a nonprofit organization and has seen plenty of local support. In addition to the generosity of Seabrook Island Real Estate, the church has received donations of a new computer, accounting software, supplies and has even had coffee donated for Sunday mornings. Calvary of the Sea Islands is a fellowship of believers in the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The official Calvary Chapel web site (www.calvarychapel.com) gives a more comprehensive presentation of beliefs that this network of churches shares. At the core of the group is recognition of God’s love for all people. The desire is that the worship of God be reflected in all aspects of our lives. The church invites anyone who is interested in learning more about its tenets and meeting members of the fellowship to show up on Sundays. Dress is casual, worship is contemporary, and hospitality abounds for the body and the soul. For more information, contact Pastor Paul Charles at 270-7979, www.islandconnectionnews.com Island Connection Calendar June 12 - June 26 Friday, June 12 Pet Helpers Summer Palooza! From 6-9pm outside (and inside!) of Party Kingdom, located at 1739 Maybank Hwy. $10 per child includes: All you can eat food plus admission to indoor playground and 20 tokens. For more info, call 795-5701 or visit www. pethelpers.org Music on the Green From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Green, come listen to Shrimp City Slim. 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 golf tournament for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation at Oak Point Golf Course. For more info, contact Battalion Chief Wayne Carter, a.carter@ stjfd.org, or Fire Chief Karl Ristow, [email protected]. 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. Pre-registration required by Friday, June 12. Call 795-4FUN (4386) to register, or call 768-5867 for more information. Fee: $35/$25 MHEC Trail Pass Holder. Jun 12-14, 12pm (Fri) - 4pm (Sun). leisurely self-guided tour among the several acres of hydrangea gardens. Lunch from 12pm until 1:30pm: cost is $12. Rosebank Farms is located at 4455 Betsy Kerrison Parkway on Johns Island. For more info, call 768-0508 or email@ RosebankFarms.com Slalom Water ski tournament at Trophy Lakes Carolina Watersports at Trophy Lakes on Johns Island will be hosting an all day Slalom Water Ski Tournament, open to the public. 3050 Marlin Road, Johns Island. For more info, call Matt at 559-2520 or email Matt@ CarolinaWatersports.com. Services at 768-6491. Monday, June 22 2009 Sun Devil Classic Join us for the 2009 Sun Devil Classic at The River Course at The Kiawah Island Club to benefit Charleston Collegiate School. For more info, call Olivia French at 559-5506, ext. 223. 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. 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. WedneSday, June 17 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 5596955. Starlight Cinema at Freshfields Village Green Starting at 9pm. Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2006): The Fantastic Four deal with an old foe. Rated PG. 92 minutes. Sponsored by SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491. Sunday, June 14 Flag Day Blues in the Night Starting at 4pm at the Kiawah River Course. Enjoy music from world renown blues musicians Satan & Adam and Eddie Shaw & The Wolf Gang. Tickets available beginning June 1 at Town Hall. Tickets $25 for the food buffet at the River Course (required for attendance). WedneSday, June 24 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. We would look forward to sharing in the fellowship and spirit of Rotary with you. For more info, contact Martha Harris at 559-6955. Starlight Cinema at Freshfields Village Green Starting at 9pm. Fantastic Four: The Rookie (2002): Big-league dreams are revived. Rated G. 127 minutes. Sponsored by SeaCoast Sports & Outfitters. For more info, call Guest Services at 768-6491. Monday, June 15 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 Friday, June 19 Music on the Green From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Green, come listen to Men of Distinction. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. For more info, contact Guest Services at 768-6491. Saturday, June 13 4th Annual Hydrangea Festival From 10am – 4pm, visitors may take a Saturday, June 20 Amateur and Pro Wakeboard Contest at Trophy Lakes Carolina Watersports at Trophy Lakes on Johns Island will be hosting an all day Amateur and Pro Wakeboard Contest, open to the public. 3050 Marlin Road, Johns Island. For more info, call Matt at 559-2520 or email Matt@ CarolinaWatersports.com. thurSday, June 25 Seabrook Island Camera Club cancelled The Seabrook Camera Club will not be meeting this month. 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. Sunday, June 21 Summer officially begins at 1:45am Happy Father’s Day! Friday, June 26 Music on the Green From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Green, come listen to the David Archer Trio. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island. For more info, contact Guest Services at 768-6491. www.islandconnectionnews.com June 12, 2009 O n a bright spring day in the late 1950s, a family maid and her ward, an energetic little boy with a shock of sandy blonde hair, took a stroll down to White Point Gardens to catch the breeze. Their house wasn’t very far away, no more than a couple blocks, and afternoon strolls were a regular pastime in the warmer months. It was for good reason that the Native Americans called the Charleston Peninsula the land of seven winds, and White Point Gardens, also known as the Battery, is one of the best places on land to catch the cooling cross breezes. While the maid chatted with her friends, the boy played on the stacks of cannonballs and fiddled with the sealed shut firing mechanisms of the Civil War cannons. It was several minutes before the maid noticed he was missing. She leapt from her bench and began searching frantically. “David!” she yelled, “David, come out and quit playing!” As she passed one of the cannons, she heard a giggle. “David, you come out of there right now!” She demanded, but all she got in return was more laughter. “That’s it; I’m coming in after you!” She said, and foisted her The man of history 15 tales which draw his listeners much further into the day to day life of early Charleston than your average carriage or walking tour. “The cocktail party actually began in Charleston,” said David, sharing another rare Charleston tidbit with his listeners. “Northerners used to stay at Yemen’s Hall, as it was the only all-Yankee boarding house in Charleston.” He went on to explain that the Northerners felt slighted that no one threw them dinner parties, as the custom in Charleston at the time was to eat a large lunch and a smaller supper. To appease the agitated Yankees, the Legare family, who lived near Yemen’s Hall at the time, threw an early evening party with finger foods (Southerners, and Charlestonians in particular, are known for eating many different types of foods with their hands) and cocktails. The Yankees were so thrilled with this casual approach to a light dinner that the idea soon spread across the United States. In his spare time, David is also working on his online publication, The Charleston Times, a regularly updated website with both local and regional Charleston News, as well as his blog, davidfarrow.wordpress.com. For more information on his tours, please write to [email protected]. White Point Gardens in downtown Charleston. generous figure into the air and down the cannon’s barrel. In a split second, David was climbing out of the other end, but the maid was stuck, her legs flailing from the end of the cannon. “She got out, but she was mad for a while,” said David Farrow as he wrapped up one of his favorite childhood stories. Personal tales of Charleston’s recent history pepper Farrow’s talks and are a huge selling point for his Downtown 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 15, 22, and 29 at 10:30am Preschool Storytime (3 – 6 years) Wednesday, June 17, and 24 at 10:30am Saturday Family Storytime (all ages) Saturday, June 13, 20, and 27 at 11am *Files and Folders: File Organization and Management (adults/young adults) Tuesday, June 16 from 10am – 12 noon *Internet Basics (adults) Tuesday, June 23 from 10am – 12pm *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. Wired (rising 6-12 graders) Wednesdays, June 17 and 24 from 2:30 – 4:30pm Knitting Group (adults) Thursday, June 25, from 6 – 7:30pm 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. Low Country Dolls June-July. Beautifully sculptured low country dolls with faces made of pecan shells and other handmade fabric sculptured dolls designed and made by Master Quilter Nora R. Williams will be on display. Photography Exhibit The Kiawah Island Photography Club will display photographs featuring a broad range of subjects--people, beach activities, Charleston street scenes, native wildlife, travel shots, and more. There will be something to be enjoyed by everyone! Charleston Tours. David is what one would call a “native Charlestonian”, a notable distinction which is not bestowed upon just anyone. The saying goes that you’re not a native of Charleston unless you’ve been here for four generations or more. For example, David’s mother called his father’s family “newcomers”, since they only arrived in Charleston in 1702, while his mother’s family, the Ravenels, arrived in 1686. Because of his deep ties to a city he so obviously loves, David’s stories are infused with little-known anecdotes and personal Let the good times roll! “Laissez les bons temps rouler!” Everything sounds more enticing in Cajun. It seems to take the edge off things. With the current world climate and economic instability, it truly is time to take a breather and to let the good times roll. And a great way to go about taking your Cajun vacation is right here in Charleston, with a special show by the very talented husband and wife duo known as Brad and Jennifer Moranz. That’s right, the Moranz’s are at it again, presenting their new show Let the Good Times Roll - The Summer Show, which will be running from July 17 to July 26. They have compiled a plethora of talent both locally and nationally that will make your troubles slip away. Elvis (aka - Johnny Fortuna straight from Las Vegas) will be making a much anticipated encore appearance after wooing and wow-ing the audience AS IvES SEES It By DWIGHt S. IvES MA, MA, LUtCf this past April during the Valentine’s performances. Also appearing will be Amy Banks, whose voice can be heard in the movie The Lion King. Banks is a highly regarded addition to this line up of music and mayhem typical of the Moranz style. There are six shows left and limited space! (Tickets go fast). So call now while I try to find my Blue Suede shoes … Dwight graduated from the National College Republican Fieldman School to become a political instructor/consultant. Returning from Washington, DC, he earned dual Masters in Business Administration and Management. He has done PR work for Crystal Gayle, Frank Abagenal of the movie “Catch Me If You Can”, and the “Christmas Show” produced by Brad and Jenifer Moranz. Dwight works Security at Kiawah Island for KICA. Displays: www.islandconnectionnews.com