Since May 2007
PRESORT STANDARD
Volume 12 Issue 1
2017 Women Build.
Women Build 2018
benefits KICA employee
BY GREGG BRAGG
The Island Connection Staff Writer
W
omen Build has been part of the Sea Island Habitat
for Humanity (Habitat) for close to 20 years. True to
their vision of “A world where everyone has a decent
place to live,” they spend a week each year building a house
for someone who doesn’t. The commitment to “build homes,
communities and hope” is constant. During the week of April
15, hundreds of women from all over the Lowcountry will meet
in the Heritage Oaks sub-division on James Island to add to a
long list of accomplishments.
Typically, the group arrives the first day to nothing but a
foundation. Frames are then built and lifted into place followed
by the manufacture of trusses. The trusses are then lifted into
Tennis Fundraising
Page 5
US POSTAGE PAID
CHARLESTON SC
POSTAL PATRON
PERMIT NO 437
FREE April 13, 2018
SIAG
Artist of
the Month
PAT VAN DE GRAFF
BY SHARON PECK
For The Island Connection
P
at Van de Graff, artist, long-
time Seabrooker and guild board
member, will be the artist of the
month in April. Pat is a watercolorist
and printmaker, an Exhibiting Member
of The Charleston Artist’s Guild and the
Center for Contemporary Printmaking
in Norwalk, CT. She has been printing
for over 25 years and studied at the Art
Students League in New York City and
Syracuse University. She graduated from
The University of Bridgeport with a
degree in Printmaking/Art History. Pat’s
prints have won numerous awards in local
and regional shows and are part of many
private and corporate collections.
Pat began painting in watercolors
again after living in the Lowcountry of
South Carolina. Surrounded by marshes
and the sea in both South Carolina and
PHOTOS COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Connecticut, she enjoys capturing their
beauty with the unique qualities that
watercolor brings to painting. She is
represented by The Spencer Art Gallery
and the Charleston Artist’s Guild Gallery
in downtown Charleston.
place on top of the frame. Once everything is “squared,” the
women move on, adding fiber board to outside walls, decking to
the roof, fabric and Tyvek, windows, doors, siding, tar paper and
shingles. Sounds pretty easy and in a lot of ways, it is.
Division of labor is the key. Dozens of residents from Seabrook,
Kiawah, along with employees of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort
join women from all over the Lowcountry to get it all done. Carol
Shilepsky, Chair of the Women Build Committee collaborates
with people like Louis Kines, Development Coordinator, and
Jacob Elsey. These three work together to organize work groups
Women Build continues on page 6 Pat Van de Graff
Day Trippin’ Game, Set, Match!
Page 8 Page 14
2 April 13, 2018
civic

Mayor joins Development

Lynn Pierotti
Committee, Permanent police
publisher
lynn@luckydognews.com officers considered
Katy Calloway
BY KATY CALLOWAY
managing editor The Island Connection Managing Editor
katy@luckydognews.com

M
ayor Weaver called the meeting to
Jennifer Tuohy order right on time and moved on
contributing editor to approve the minutes from last
jennifer@luckydognews.com month’s meeting.
In his subsequent update he announced
Alejandro Ferreyros the Planning Commission meeting
senior graphic designer
scheduled for April 4 has been cancelled.
Consequently, the agenda item regarding
alejandro@luckydognews.com Lot 13 and Kiawah Partners, (Duneside
Dr. reported in the last issue) has been
Lori McGee postponed until the May meeting. Weaver
sales manager reminded residents that the decision
lori@luckydognews.com regarding Duneside Dr. is the Planning
Commission’s and that Council has no
authority over the issue.
Carla Foxworth Current concerns over development
sales executive and road infrastructure at the City level,
carla@luckydognews.com including a moratorium on development,
has prompted Mayor Tecklenberg to
Senior Staff Writer convene a commission of stakeholders on
Johns Island. Judge Walsh, Chair of the
Gregg Bragg
Charleston County Council has contacted
Mayor Weaver regarding an invitation to
Contributors join the recently appointed Johns Island
Sharon Peck Development Committee that will oversee
Marty Cline a Johns Island Capitol Improvement Plan.
Norman Powers The 10-year plan will help guide future
development. Mayor Weaver will be
Chad Stewart
representing Kiawah on the committee
Alberta Barron
whose first meeting is scheduled for April 17.
Ali Buendo
Mayor Weaver then followed up on a
Sarah Reynolds discussion at the March Council meeting
regarding the Town joining the SC
Environmental Law project’s potential
litigation related to offshore oil exploration.
“Kiawah along with a number of other
communities is now one of the potential
named communities should this in fact
come to some sort of legal action.”
A presentation from the
Communications department recapped the
new video series Wild About that premiered
online on March 2. The second installment,
Wild About Bobcats, which debuted March
28, was shown to Council. As of this
report the video has had over 670 views on
YouTube.
Moving on to new business, Town
Planner, John Taylor presented two
ordinances related to the amendment of
a fixed location dock in lieu of a floating
dock. It is an R1 zoning district at the far,
east end of the island. The site is currently
vacant. Taylor clarified the intent behind a
fixed dock was to allow crabbing and marsh
access, not necessarily boat access. A floating
dock allows for deep water access.
The applicant has also applied to DHEC
for the proposal of a short footbridge to
connect two parcels; the new floating
dock would be built on the easternmost
parcel. The Planning Commission had
recommended approval by a vote of 6-0.
When opened to public hearing there
was a brief comment by Ray Pantlik
representing Eagle Point partners who owns
the property. The new dock will allow access
to deep water on the Stono River.
Ordinance 2018-02, first reading, was
approved unanimously. The subsequent
ordinance to approve the map for said dock
location was also approved unanimously.
Ordinances 2018-04,05 and 06 related to
The Ocean Course Golf Club’s applications
for a new Future Land Use category that
would allow limited residential development
rezoning on an approximate 28-acre parcel.
The site is closest to The Ocean Course
Clubhouse. The Planning Commission
recommended all three approvals
unanimously.
When opened to public comment
former Mayor Charles Lipuma questioned
the development agreement in regards to
maximum number of bedroom count. Mayor
Weaver clarified that it does not increase the
number and implied that he would address
this in the Council’s discussion.
Mark Permar spoke on behalf of the
applicant, stating “These [amendments]
are all aligned and consistent with the
pre-approved plat from last fall.”
After a motion was made to approve
the first ordinance amendment, discussion
ensued. Mayor Weaver reminded council
that, “This was originally part of a package
of changes that involved not just The
Ocean Course but the new inn at West
Beach, the new conference center,” and
that it is, “consistent with the change to the
development agreement with Kiawah Island
Golf Resort that was reviewed and approved
by Town Council mid-last year.”
All three first readings were approved
unanimously.
The AirMedCare contract was
then renewed and promptly approved
unanimously.
Town Administrator Stephanie Tillerson
presented the Summit Building Services
contract for cleaning services. The amount
of current services, 2 days a week, needs
to be amended to add an additional day
for cleaning service. Cleaning would take
place Tues, Thurs and Sat. for an additional
$9851 per year. The contract amendment
was approved unanimously.
Carolina Waste Services contract is due
to expire so two proposals were reviewed and
CWS was again approved by the Ways and
Means Committee for $951,743. Which
includes a less than $60,000 additional
expense for tracking abilities. The contract
was approved unanimously.
There was discussion of the new

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April 13, 2018 3
civic civic

Disaster Awareness Day

Charleston County Sheriff’s Office staffing There was no Town Administrator’s report.
model led by Councilmember Widuch. Councilmember Mezzanotte reported
Kiawah currently employs Charleston on the Environmental Committee that a

scheduled, senior care

County Sheriff deputies that are off-duty new subcommittee convenes this month,
from their current assignments. The to document Kiawah landscaping issues
Sheriff’s office has trouble finding deputies and develop a plan to improve aesthetics,
that are interested in working over time

so the agreement has not been filled to
capacity. The Public Safety Committee
would like to request the Sheriffs office
hire additional employees to be assigned to
Kiawah full time. Kiawah Island will spend
two years transitioning to this approach,
which would employ 8 full-time deputies.
facility considered
wildlife and stormwater management issues.
Councilmember John Wilson reported
the budget process is moving along, and
believes the Ways and Means Committee
will review the final budget at the end
BY GREGG BRAGG
of April and be recommending the first The Island Connection Staff Writer
reading of the budget at May’s Town
Council meeting.

Councilmember Mezzanotte noted that
the advantage of having permanent officers
who get to know the community, as
opposed to the current model which rotates
approximately 39 officers that serve part-
time. If and when it is approved by KOTC
it then requires County Council approval.
The next item was Councilmember
Widuch’s discussion of the building permit
process being more customer friendly while
still adhering to FEMA guidelines that
require improvements to homes be tracked
and recorded. No decisions were made.
Mayor Weaver anticipates the next step is to
work with the building services group to put
changes into an ordinance that would then
come before Council.
Councilmember Koach raised a general
question regarding the discussion at the
last council meeting about going forward
with respect to going against the former
auditors on the embezzlement issue. Town
attorney Green stated that a demand letter
has been prepared and should go out this
week requesting audits of what the previous
CPA should have done. There is no new
information regarding the indictments of
previous employees.
Following citizen’s comments, council
moved into executive session to discuss
employee salary matters. No votes were
taken. The next meeting of the Kiawah
Island Town Council will be Tuesday, May
1 at 2 p.m.
T
he March 27 meeting of Seabrook
Island Town Council (SITC)
included another public hearing,
this time with a twist. Seabrook resident
Phil Squire broke the usual silence to ask
if the transfer of Accommodations Tax
(ATax) funds sanctioned by ordinance
2018-02 was appropriate and available
for use toward beach patrol. Mayor Ron
Ciancio responded by reiterating last
month’s description of the funds.
The mayor said the state mistakenly
gave the money to the county, which is
now being conveyed to Seabrook after two
years of wrangling. Combined with ATax
funds Seabrook knew about during the
budget process, the extra funds allow for
a reshuffling of the distribution amongst
tourism related activities, which includes
beach patrol.
The mayor segued to his financial
report, and opened again by touting an
overall fund balance, which has grown to
over $4.6 million. Revenues for February
were under projections for the second
consecutive month, the result of “log jam”
in business licenses expected to level out.
Expenses were also less than expected
because of roadway expenses yet to be
incurred.
Councilmember John Gregg reported
the Club’s Long Range Planning
Committee did not meet in March.
He expects he will have a report on the
group’s activities next month. The Public
Safety Committee met on March 12
and advanced the bidding process on
a contingent contract for storm debris
removal, which will probably replace the
existing “standby” contract with Phillips
& Jordan. Gregg then pivoted to the
revamped subject of refrigerator magnets
imprinted with updated emergency
contact information.
The idea is ease of access for both
residents and renters alike. Gregg said “up
to” 2400 magnets were being requested at
a cost of $1,258.00. Council member Jeri
SITC continues on page 4

Tid e Char t
Date High Tide Low Tide
Apr 13 7:07am/7:21pm 12:42am/1:05pm
Apr 14 7:51am/8:04pm 1:29am/1:47pm
Apr 15 8:33am/8:45pm 2:15am/2:29pm
Apr 16 9:14am/9:27pm 3:00am/3:11pm
Apr 17 9:56am/10:10pm 3:46am/3:54pm
Apr 18 10:41am/10:57pm 4:34am/4:40pm
Apr 19 11:29am/11:48pm 5:23am/5:29pm
Apr 20 12:23pm 6:16am/6:23pm
Apr 21 12:44am/1:24pm 7:14am/7:22pm
Apr 22 1:47am/2:30pm 8:15am/8:27pm
Apr 23 2:54am/3:38pm 9:19am/9:35pm
Apr 24 4:01am/4:44pm 10:21am/10:41pm
Apr 25 5:04am/5:45pm 11:20am/11:43pm
Apr 26 6:02am/6:40pm 12:13pm

Hurricanes, storms, etc., are NOT included in the predictions.

Tidal current direction changes and tide time predictions can be
very different. Tide predictions are PREDICTIONS; they can be
wrong so use common sense.
Source: saltwatertides.com
4 April 13, 2018
SITC continues from page 3
Finke expressed doubts about the number
being requested, but said she was ok with
the “up to” language in the request. She
and the rest of SITC voted to approve
funds needed, just in time for Disaster
Awareness Day.
DAD is scheduled for Wednesday,
June 13. The annual event will be hosted
by the town of Kiawah at a place to be
announced. This is the first time in
four years Kiawah has hosted the affair.
The event will include things you can
do to prepare for hurricanes and other
emergencies, and where to go and how to
get there if residents decide to leave the
Lowcountry in the run up to a storm.
Speakers typically include members of
the St. Johns Fire District, Charleston
County Emergency Services and the SC
branch of the Federal Emergency Agency.
Details will be announced soon.
Gregg updated SITC on claims made
to FEMA saying the town’s request for
public assistance was less for Irma than
it was for Matthew, but still worth the
time. The total sum received by Seabrook
was just shy of $107,000 from Matthew
and he expects something similar for
Irma. Councilmember Skip Crane was on
vacation and Finke had no report, clearing
the way for councilmember John Wells.
Wells reported on progress with the
Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network,
the group set to begin an education/
protection program this year for strand
feeding dolphins on Seabrook beaches.
civic
He said a digital copy of the one-year
contract would be provided to SITC
members and residents, which he said was
“well thought out.” For example, concerns
LMMN may collect and report violations
that might weigh against future beach
re-nourishment requests are mitigated
by a clause requiring SITC review and
approval prior to publication.
Wells also reported on the posting of
a request for proposal in local papers.
He said SITC has three responses in
hand (including Robert George &
Associates – the firm that has assisted
with the permitting/easements process).
Salvageable pipes will be lined with
fiberglass and any that aren’t will be
replaced for a total distance of 385
feet. The same can be said of repairing/
replacing flapper gates, two of which are
fully “permitted” for work to proceed.
Wells concluded his report by observing
Bohicket Marina was planning to repave
their road, and had been made aware of
the SITC project and the ramifications
a dip at their entrance could have on the
overall project.
The mayor augmented Wells’ report
with the announcement of potential new
facilities adjacent to Seabrook Island Rd.
Representatives of a prospective senior
care/assisted living facility are giving local
officials a “heads up” about the possibility
a (119+ bed) facility between Freshfields
and Seabrook town hall. Construction
and a long-term entrance to the facility
will require access via Seabrook’s road.
The idea of an emergency medical
facility on the opposite side of the road
is also being floated. The ramifications
to the current drainage project are being
considered as they relate to both projects,
said the mayor before beginning his own
remarks.
Ciancio, now making his own report,
said Seabrook needs to consider Kiawah’s
lead on rental properties. Vacation homes
contribute to the island’s income in the
form of licensing and sidestepping the
process through online ads dilutes the
town’s finances. The mayor said Kiawah
insists a business license number be
included on all online ads, among other
requirements. “We need to take a look
at doing something similar during the
next meeting of the Ways and Means
Committee,” he said. Ciancio concluded
his comments by saying SITC needed
to get a jump on updating the town’s
comprehensive plan to stay ahead of its
expiration date.
Town administrator Joe Cronin
detailed the schedule for this year’s beach
patrol, which are available on the town’s
new website.
Cronin said a new web hosting service
was available to the town for the already
low price of $300/month, but added that
a “if you call right now” option existed,
which could save the town money. $225
was subsequently approved by SITC.
Cronin suggested establishing a
policy and possible charges for use of
town property (the upcoming yard sale,
for example). Article 2, chapter 4 of the
town’s code addresses the possibility, but
not to the degree he thinks it should.
He is working on draft language for an
amendment to be considered in the near
future.
Jim Bannwart reported normal
operations at the Seabrook Island Utility
for the preceding month. He cautioned
residents that work on the island’s
manholes was commencing and that the
previously reported hike in water rates
would soon hit residents with about $.88/
month in additional charges.
Ordinance 2018-03 was unanimously
approved for a first reading. The
measure would transfer 2731 Old Oak
Walk (ultimately) to the Greenspace
Conservancy.
Mayor Ciancio asked for a motion to
approve the second reading of Ordinance
2018-02, to amend the 2018 budget and
appropriate $65,000 from Seabrook’s
ATax Fund. The measure passed
unanimously.
Phil Squire asked if SITC had
considered its own police force. The
mayor said they had not, and felt it would
jeopardize Seabrook’s ability to make
annual additions to the town’s emergency
fund while Cronin argued it would cost
more to administer than they paid in
salaries. Asked later about his motive for
the question, Squire pointed to the time it
takes for help to arrive.
Mayor Ciancio adjourned the meeting
with the announcement he would be part
of the Charleston and Charleston County
Johns Island Growth Committee.
April 13, 2018
fundraising
Annual Haygood/Grady
tennis tournament fundraiser
The 2017 Haygood/Grady tournament raised $19,000
for Roper St. Francis Cancer Care Center.
STAFF REPORT
For The Island Connection
T
he 8th annual Haygood/Grady
Memorial Tennis Championship is
being held this year May 18-20 on
Kiawah Island. The tournament is in honor
and memory of Prinella Haygood who
died from breast cancer at the age of 37.
She was a former employee of the Kiawah
Island Golf Resort. It is also in honor and
memory of Linwood Grady, a longtime
resident of Kiawah, avid tennis player, and
instrumental in starting this tournament.
He lost his battle with cancer is 2013.
Prinella left behind two young sons and
Linwood left behind a wife and children
who actively support the tournament.
The tournament is a SC Level 2 event
sanctioned by the USTA. Participation
includes dinner on Saturday night prepared
by Kiawah’s award-winning chefs. There
PHOTO PROVIDED
is also a silent auction with a wonderful
selection of sought-after items. This year’s
auction will be hosted by Tom Crawford,
meteorologist for local ABC news channel 4.
All proceeds from the auction are
contributed in honor of Prinella Haygood
and Linwood Grady to the Wellness
Center at Roper St. Francis Cancer Care
Center, as well as the education trust for
Prinella’s sons. In addition, this year the
are celebrating the life of Michele Nemeth
by donating to the Lonon Foundation,
a nonprofit that provides resources to
children who have been affected by a
family or caregiver’s cancer diagnosis.
Prinella, Linwood, and Michelle had
ties to Kiawah and the surrounding tennis
communities and are fondly remembered
by all of us involved in tennis.
For more information visit HaygoodGrady.
com or theLononFoundation.org.
5
arts & events
Photo Club welcomes
Pamela Cohen
A D VA N C E D T E C H N I Q U E S : TA K I N G
YOUR PHOTOS TO A NEW LEVEL
BY MARTY CLINE
For The Island Connection
P
amela Cohen is a professional of Life and “Intimate Nature” in South
landscape/wildlife photographer Carolina.
and owner of Prima Photography.
Cohen has won many photographic
As a biologist and photographer, she
awards, including Nature’s Best
incorporates knowledge of nature and
Backyards, with the image,“Tree Frog
blends it with competency in photography
on Wild Iris”. August 2016, Cohen was
to create stunning images.
recognized as a semifinalist in America’s
Cohen has studied in the field under Top Photographer. Her photos grace the
the guidance of National Geographic walls of homes as well as businesses. Her
photographers, including Frans Lanting magazine contributions are to Outdoor
and Galen Rowell, recognized as two Photographer, Legends, Connoisseur,
of the finest landscape and nature Camera in the Wild, and Naturally
photographers of the recent era. Kiawah.
Cohen’s passion for travel has Cohen will be presenting to the
transported her to many sites, favoring Seabrook Island Photography Club on
Italy; Venice being a teaching workshop Thursday, April 19 at 6:30 p.m. There is a
location. Images from various portfolios $10 fee for non-members.
serve as restaurant decor in New York,
For information on membership please
Ohio, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.
visit SeabrookIslandPhotoClub.com.
Her work has been seen in the
prestigious Butler Institute of American
Art. Gallery installations include,
“Southern Coastal Italy, Sicily, and the
Aeolian Islands” in Ohio and “Visions
6 April 13, 2018
daily
SINHG explores
British and Spanish
Lowcountry history
BY NORMAN POWERS
For The Island Connection
S
INHG will explore the colonial
rivalry for the Lowcountry between
England and Spain in this month’s
Evening Program on Thursday, April 26,
with John Hiatt, a Lead Interpreter and
Park Historian for the Charlestowne
Landing State Historic Site.
“Carolina and the Anglo-Spanish
Rivalry” will explore the competing
interests of Britain and Spain during a
time of rapid colonial expansion by both
countries into the New World during the
early 17th century.
Little more than a century after the
Spanish established St. Augustine, Florida
in 1565, the British issued a challenge
with the founding of their major port in
the Carolinas at Charlestowne, only a few
hundred miles north of St. Augustine.
John Hiatt’s talk will explore the roots
of the rivalry between the two colonial
powers, especially as it played out in the
development of the Lowcountry.
Hiatt holds bachelors and masters
degrees in American History from the
University of North Carolina and became
an independent preservation planner and
research historian after an internship with
the National Park Service. He joined the
staff of Charlestowne Landing twelve
years ago.
All Seabrook Island residents and guests
are welcome to attend in the Live Oak
room at Lake House, with refreshments
and fellowship starting at 7 p.m. and the
program at 7:30. There is a $5 donation
for non-SINHG members.
daily
Women Build continues from cover
into shifts of 35 women at any given time,
schedule materials delivery in advance
and “tee up” things like inspections. Every
possible detail is streamlined. Never has
the expression, “Many hands make work
light,” been more apt. It has been that way
with Habitat from the beginning.
The Eastern Mennonite Board of
Missions sent volunteers to Johns Island
In the late 1960s to repair homes and help
migrant workers. The gesture was well
received, repeated, and continued to gain
traction. They garnered recognition from
Habitat, a relatively new organization at
the time. The end of the 70’s witnessed
a full-blown marriage of the two
organizations, forming the Sea Island
Habitat for Humanity, the very genesis of
the third oldest Habitat chapter on planet
Earth.
Habitat places additional requirements
on the bargain for one of their homes,
while the loan requirements are identical
to those demanded by any traditional
lender. For example, applicants have to:
1. Verify employment
2. Be drug free
3. Have an acceptable credit history
4. Have a credit rating >= 600
5. Verify the number of people living
in the house
6. Maintain an active savings account
7. Pass a financial literacy class
8. Take a homeowner’s
“maintenance” course
9. Contribute 300 hours of sweat
equity
Approved candidates are then loaned
$100,000 for 30 years on the house
(appraised for a value ranging from
$140,000 - $160,000) interest free. Before
you ask, NO, they can’t simply “flip” the
house. The difference in the loan amount
and appraised value is essentially held as
a second mortgage on the property that
homeowners must also satisfy if they
sell early. Some proration is possible, of
course, but if the 30-year term is met, the
homeowner is entitled to the property’s
full value.
Habitat had one resident stay in their
home for 38 years (before selling), but
the advantage is clear. Renting the same
amount of space in the Lowcountry
can cost as much as $1200/month. The
interest free loan can reduce expenses to
something closer to $600/month, freeing
limited income for other requirements.
The “hand up, instead of a hand out”
makes a real difference and you can, too.
People wishing to volunteer for 2018’s
Women Build can register by visiting
TridentHabitat.com/pages/sihh-women-
build-2018-registration. You can also
contact Wendy Kulick or Diane Lehder
by sending an email to Kulickwkulick@
bellsouth.net, Maryanne Connelly
- fanwood1@gmail.com, Catherine
Scully - ctscully1@gmail.com, Kathleen
Ciarlante - k.l.ciarlante@gmail.com,
which includes name, email, birthdate,
and phone number. The $35 registration
fee gets you a t-shirt, snacks and lunch,
and when combined with corporate and
private donations helps cover the cost of
materials. Checks should be made out
to “Sea Island Habitat for Humanity.”
Regardless of your skill set, Women Build
has a way for you to make a difference.
Habitat builds houses year round and
is always looking for volunteers regardless
of their level of construction experience.
For more information or ways you can
help, visit LowcountryHabitat.org.
8 April 13, 2018
daily

Day trippin’
B E A U F O R T I S A B O AT I N G D E S T I N AT I O N

BY CAPTAIN CHAD STEWART

For The Island Connection

O
ne of our favorite trips at Holy City Sailing is
to Beaufort. The Downtown Marina is situated
right on the boardwalk lined with shops and
restaurants. It’s a full day on our sailboat but don’t be
afraid to venture down for just the day on a faster boat.
The ride in the intracoastal is beautiful and calm, save
for some fairly open water as you cross St. Helena Sound.
When the wind is up and the tide is opposing, it can look
like the worst day you can remember in the Charleston
harbor for 7 miles or so.
Once you have crossed the sound, you’ll probably
want to take a detour to Morgan Island. It’s home to a
colony of a few thousand monkeys. Yes, you read that
correctly. They can be shy and all but invisible and other
times there may 50 or more out on the beach. Don’t feed
them and certainly do not approach them or step foot on
the island. They are not friendly and not safe but they are
fun to watch from your boat.
You’ll pass the fuel dock at the Marine Corps Air
Station and perhaps see (and hear) some jets as MCAS
Beaufort is home to the 501st Marine Fighter Attack
Training Squadron with the hovering F35B jets.
The only gasoline between Charleston and Beaufort
is at Bohicket Marina. Plan your fuel accordingly. The
Lady’s Island swing bridge is a concern it you have a taller
vessel. It operates on demand, but note that they do not
open during rush hour.
If you choose to overnight in Beaufort, don’t miss the
9 a.m. recital of the Pledge of Allegiance at the delicious
Blackstone’s Café.
April 13, 2018
daily
Racquet Club supports
local clinic
Members of the Seabrook Island Racquet Club.
STAFF REPORT
For The Island Connection
T
he Annual Barrier Island Round
Robin Benefit Day took place on
March 7 at the Seabrook Island
Racquet Club and included a separate
Men’s and Women’s Round Robin
followed by a raffle. This year the tennis
PHOTO PROVIDED
community raised a record $6,200 for a
great local cause, the Barrier Island Free
Medical Clinic. Thank you to co-chairs
Pat Tallman and Kathy Bruce and all
their volunteers for putting together a fun
and highly successful event!
9
arts & events
Going native
S I G C H O S T S D AV I D M A N G E R
BY ALBERTA BARRON
For The Island Connection
G
uest speaker, David Manger, will Finally, this year’s SIGC Spring
present at the next Seabrook Island Luncheon is scheduled for May 11,
Garden Club meeting on Friday, 2018. Celebrate 30 years of excitement,
April 13. David is the owner of Roots education and camaraderie. A three-
and Shoots Nursery in West Ashley. The course lunch will be served at the Island
nursery specializes in native plants, with House at noon. The cost is $27, checks are
the goal of enhancing the beauty and payable to the Seabrook Island Garden
health of our outdoor spaces while also Club.
supporting the local wildlife.
For information on membership in the
David is a master naturalist, sustainable Seabrook Island Garden Club contact Holli
landscaper, and permaculture designer. He Bolte at hmbolte@yahoo.com.
promotes healthy and balanced gardens
through plant diversity. In addition to
the nursery, he also operates a sustainable
landscaping company, Living Landscapes
of Charleston, specializing in edible/
native gardens, building the health of
soils, and creating functional ecosystems
around homes and gardens.
At last month’s meeting Stan Ullner
graciously donated several large, signed
photographs of flowers. All of the photos
are printed on archival art paper and
would make a wonderful addition to
anyone’s home art collection. The April
meeting will kick off with a raffle of one
of the pictures. Raffle tickets are $2
each, 3 for $5 or 8 for $10. Proceeds will
go towards the garden club’s education
outreach.
10
Conservancy doubles footprint
KIAWAH RIVER MARSH EAST AND LITTLE RABBIT NORTH
1,155 ACRES PRESERVED
T
he Kiawah Conservancy announced that the
entire span of the Kiawah River, from the bridge
to the Stono River, has been protected, more than
doubling the Conservancy’s conservation footprint in the
first quarter of 2018.
The Conservancy received a generous donation of 1,150
acres of intertidal marsh (Kiawah River Marsh East tract),
including hummock islands, on the eastern side of Kiawah
bound by the Kiawah River, Kiawah Island, and the Stono
River from Kiawah Partners. In addition, the Conservancy
completed the purchase of Little Rabbit North—a five-
acre upland finger, which extends out into the marsh and
is situated between Mingo South and mainland Kiawah
Island. This property was purchased from Kiawah Partners
at a substantially below market value.
By combining the donated Kiawah River East
Marsh tract and the purchase of Rabbit North with
the previously donated (2017) conservation easements
on Mingo North and Mingo South and 720 acres of
donated Kiawah River West marshlands all from Kiawah
Partners, the Conservancy has protected more than
just the entrance to Kiawah Island. These lands provide
habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna, including
“at risk,” “threatened,” and “SCDNR highest priority”
species. Their preservation sustains key components of
the Kiawah ecosystem.
Marsh East Conservation Value
The hummock, high marsh, intertidal marsh, tidal
daily
BY ALI BUENDO
For The Island Connection
creek and salt shrub thicket habitats found within the
Marsh East tract support a variety of wildlife including
wading birds, shorebirds, and furbearers as well as
secretive marsh birds.
Recreational and commercially important species
supported by these marshes include shrimp, blue crab,
oysters, and numerous fish species.
The island hummocks are particularly important for
neotropical songbird migrants as seasonal and stopover
habitats.
Additionally, the habitats within this tract have the
potential to support a variety of rare and endangered
species such as the clapper rail, yellow rail, white ibis,
whimbrel, American oystercatcher, royal tern, little blue
heron, wood stork, and American bittern, all of which
are listed as “Highest Priority” species per the South
Carolina Department of Natural Resources’ (SCDNR)
Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. Other
priority species include the great egret, MacGillivray’s
seaside sparrow, black-bellied plover, tricolored heron,
brown pelican, willet, greater yellowlegs, bald eagle,
semipalmated plover, snowy egret, Carolina chickadee,
sora rail, spotted sandpiper, and great blue heron.
In addition to being a “Highest Priority” species, the
wood stork is also listed as a federally threatened species.
Several federal At-Risk Species are listed for Charleston
County and may occur within the habitats of the Marsh
East tract. These include MacGillivray’s seaside sparrow,
April 13, 2018
Monarch butterfly, Eastern diamondback rattlesnake,
black rail, and Godfrey’s privet.
Rabbit North Conservation Value
Rabbit North, a piece of a hummock island bisected
by the Kiawah Island Parkway, provides key habitat for
several unique and at risk species. By purchasing Rabbit
North for conservation, the Conservancy has ensured that
an additional 19 dwelling units will never be constructed
at the entrance to Kiawah Island, and this special habitat
will be maintained into the future.
Data collected via GPS collars since 2007 indicates
that bobcats regularly utilize the property. The Town
of Kiawah Island’s “Bobcat Management Guidelines”
(2014) delineates two nearby “Important Bobcat Areas,”
used primarily for daytime resting cover. The salt shrub
thicket habitat that forms the perimeter of Rabbit North
provides key resting and movement habitat for bobcats.
The property also likely provides habitat for additional
mammals, including white-tailed deer, raccoons,
opossums and rodents. Besides bobcats, Rabbit North is
used by a variety of birds, including painted buntings,
cedar waxwings, Carolina chickadees, and red-bellied
woodpeckers. The federally listed “at risk” Monarch
butterfly finds a robust foraging area here, as the
numerous groundsel trees provide a vital fall food source
for migrating and overwintering butterflies.
April 13, 2018
Charleston Triathlon Series kicks off May 20
R A C E F E AT U R E S 6 0 0 - YA R D S W I M , 1 2 - M I L E B I K E , A N D 5 K R U N
T
he Lowcountry’s premier swim, bike and run
competition, the Charleston Sprint Triathlon
Series, kicks off its 28th year on May 20 at James
Island County Park.
The Series is a five-race series spanning May through
August and is hosted by the Charleston County Park and
Recreation Commission. Athletes may compete in one
race, multiple races, or sign up for the entire five-race
series. The 2018 races will be held on May 20, June 17,
July 8, and July 29, with the Championship Race set for
Aug. 12.
Each race begins at 7:15 a.m. with a 600-yard
freshwater swim in the park’s lake, continues with a
12-mile bike ride through the park and out and back on
arts & events
BY SARAH REYNOLDS
For The Island Connection
Riverland Dr., and finish with a flat 5K run. Participants
must be comfortable swimming the distance in open
water and riding a bicycle on roads open to traffic.
The Charleston Sprint Triathlon on May 20 will
include high school team competition offered in
partnership with Palmetto TRIbe, a certified triathlon
club for youth and high schoolers in the Charleston area.
High school team participants should register for the race
individually in their respective age groups. Once all team
members have registered, captains will submit rosters
to afoster@ccprc.com by Monday, May 14. There is no
additional fee for team entry.
Registration is now open for the series at
CharlestonCountyParks.com. Winners will be awarded
11
from each individual race as well as the entire series. Over
30,000 athletes have raced in this swim-bike-run series
since it began in 1991.
After each race, awards will be presented to the top five
men and the top five women finishers in the Open/Elite
division. Awards are also presented to the top three age
group winners in five-year increments, and the top male
and female finishers over the age of 40 (Masters division).
Prime awards will be presented to the top males and females
in the individual swim, bike and run events. Additional
awards divisions are available for registration including
Clydesdale (men over 220 pounds), Athena (women
over 165 pounds), and high school team divisions (boys,
girls and coed). The Championship race will also award
participants who have earned the most points throughout
the five-race series. A discounted rate is available for athletes
who register for more than one race. Move IT! Pass holders
also receive a discount admission rate.
Open water swim clinics conducted by Blue Sky
Endurance coaches will be held Monday evenings prior
to each race on the lake at James Island County Park
for an additional fee. The training will take place on the
actual swim course to help participants become more
confident with the swim leg of the race.
For more information or to register for the Charleston
Sprint Triathlon Series and the Swim Tri Clinics, visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com/CSTS or call 843.795.4386.
This event is presented by Blue Sky Endurance, Publix and
the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission
(CCPRC).
 April 13
ONGOING
First Monday of the month
WHAT: Mayor’s Night In
WHERE: Charleston City Hall
WHEN: Registration 4:30, Meeting 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: A chance for citizens to
meet with the Mayor one-on-one for five
minutes about any topic. Meetings are
held on a first come, first served basis.
Charleston-sc.gov.
First and third Tuesday every month
WHAT: Charleston County Book Mobile
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: 10 – 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Parked Behind Hege’s and
Java Java. Sponsored by the Charleston
County Public Library, ccpl.org.
Mondays
WHAT: Seabrook Island Bridge Group
WHERE: The Lake House
WHEN: 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: The Monday Bridge
Group welcomes new members. For more
information, please contact Ilse Calcagno
at 843.768.0317.
WHAT: Charleston Coastal Choir rehearsal
WHERE: Church of Our Savior, Johns Island
WHEN: 1-2:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Coastal
Choir, a local mixed community chorus,
is seeking new members to bring fun
and enjoyment to the low country. For
info contact Van McCollum, Director
of Music at 404.401.0678 or via email
vanmccollum@bellsouth.net.
Tuesdays
WHAT: Tango Lessons/Practice
WHERE: MUSC Wellness Center, 45
Courtenay Dr.
WHEN: 7:30-8:30
MORE INFO: Charleston Argentine Tango
Society offers a free one-hour tango lesson
and practice. The MUSC gym charges $5 at
the entrance, but lessons themselves are free.
Everyone is welcome, not just couples.
Wednesdays
WHAT: Lake House Yoga
WHERE: The Lake House
WHEN: 8:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Rise and Shine Yoga with
Patti Romano, formerly known at Gentle
Flow Yoga. Rise and Shine Yoga is an all
levels practice focused around finding your
day’s intention, set up yourself for success
and be ready to shine.
WHAT: Kids Fishing Tournament
WHERE: Bohicket Marina
WHEN: 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: A Fishing Tournament just for
kids ages 4-14. Two rounds of fishing. Arrive at
least 15 minutes before your desired round. It’s
only $7 per participant which includes all bait
and fishing rods. Every tournament produces 3
winners which will receive a tournament shirt,
bait, bucket and bragging rights. Questions call
248.719.0076.
Island Connection Calendar
WHAT: Sea Islands Book Club
WHERE: John’s Island Regional Library,
3531 Maybank Highway
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Adult discussion of Dead Wake:
The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson.
Thursdays
WHAT: The Joy Project Jazz Quartet at
The Andell Inn
WHERE: The Andell Inn Hotel,
Freshfields Village
WHEN: 6-8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Jazz every Thursday evening
lounge of the Andell Inn Hotel. Drinks and
food available. There is no cover charge.
843.793.6050. andellinn.com.
Fridays
WHAT: Adult art classes, multimedia
WHERE: 3280 Loft at Bohicket Marina,
1897 Andell Bluff Way, Seabrook Island
WHEN: 10 a.m. - noon
Saturday
WHAT: Johns Island Farmers Market
WHERE: Charleston Collegiate SChool,
2024 Academy Rd.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Charleston’s only year-
round farmers market, highlighting
produce and locally produced goods
and foods. Live music, kids activities.
JohnsIslandFarmersMarket.com for details.
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2018
WHAT: Dinner, Beethoven and
Exchange Club
WHERE: Seabrook Island Club/The
Gaillard Center
WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Island residents invited
to join Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange
Club members for a buffet dinner and
bus trip to the Gaillard Canter for the
final Charleston Symphony Orchestra
Masterworks Concert performance for
the season. Tickets are $85 per person
and include dinner, wine or beer,
transportation and concert ticket. Contact
Roger Steel at vivro@bellsouth.net or
843.768.7166 for reservations.
SATURDAY, APRIL 14-15
WHAT: 14th Annual Battle of
Charleston - Timeline of American Wars
WHERE: Legare Farms
WHEN: daily 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: The soldiers and civilian
campsites will be on display and the
public is invited to visit in the camps
to see how life might have been during
the wars. Medical demonstrations will
be ongoing during the day. Many living
history displays such as cooking over an
open fire, candle making, and sewing will
be displayed. Lunch will be available for
purchase. For complete schedule and info
visit BattleofChas.com
SATURDAY APRIL 14-21
WHAT: Habitat for Humanity’s Women
Build
WHERE: Ferguson Road, James Island
WHEN: daily
MORE INFO: During the Women Build
week, women make a difference by helping
build a decent and affordable home for
a family that needs a hand up, not a
handout. Sign up at SeaIslandHabitat.org
or call 843.768.0998 for info.
SUNDAY, APRIL 15
WHAT: 14th Annual Blues by the Sea
WHERE: Freshfields Village, under the tent
WHEN: 3-7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Presented by Freshfields
Village and the Town of Kiawah,
‘Ladies Sing the Blues’, a complimentary
performance, featuring the legendary
Beverly Guitar Watkins, J.J. Thames
& the Violet Revolt, and Eleanor Ellis.
Bring chairs and blankets. Event is rain or
shine. Food and drink will be available for
purchase. For additional info contact Gary
Erwin at 843.762.9125.
TUESDAY, APRIL 17
WHAT: No Taxation without
Relaxation
WHERE: Johns Island Post Office
WHEN: 1-3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Celebrate Tax Day with
free, tropical shaved ice from Kona Ice of
Charleston.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18
WHAT: Piano Bar Series: The Joy
Project
WHERE: Church of Our Savior
WHEN: 5-7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Opportunity to meet
neighbors outside your comfort circle for
some island socializing. Relax outside on
the patio with the beverage of your choice
or inside closer to the music. No tickets
required. BYOB.
THURSDAY, APRIL 19
WHAT: SEADOGS Beach Walk
WHERE: North Beach, Seabrook Island
WHEN: 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Charitable event benefits
the Charleston Animal Society. Hosted
by SEADOGS, the Seabrook Island dog
and beach advocacy group. For more
information contact Mitch Pulwer at
mjpulw@yahoo.com or Jerry Cummin at
hutchiejerrycummin@gmail.com.
WHAT: Seabrook Island Photo Club
WHERE: Lake House
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Pamela Cohen of Prima
Photography will present “Advanced
Techniques: Taking Your Photos to a New
Level.” Free for members, guests welcome
with a $10 fee. For information visit
SeabrookIslandPhotoClub.com.
WHAT: Sip and Stroll
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: 4-7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Visit participating stores
and restaurants during the monthly Sip
& Stroll for special in-store events, sales
and promotions along with sips and light
snacks. Make a pit stop at Andell Inn for
live jazz music beginning at 6 p.m.
SATURDAY, APRIL 21
WHAT: Earth Day 5k
WHERE: St. Christopher Camp and
Conference Center
WHEN: 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: Family and dog friendly
event raises money for the Barrier
Island Local Outreach Program. Adults
$28, under 18 $18. Includes t-shirt,
refreshments and awards for qualifiers. To
register visit StChristopher.org.
WHAT: Cars on Kiawah
WHERE: Ocean Park
WHEN: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Presented by Ally, annual
celebration of the Lowcountry’s finest
automobiles features 300 of the region’s
top club and collector cars representing
100 years of automotive history and style.
A spectacular display of 20 race cars along
with a dozen outstanding Ford Model A’s
from the local Lowcountry Model A Ford
Club. Admission is free, parking is $10
cash. Details visit CarsOnKiawah.com.
WHAT: Home Buying Seminar
WHERE: Wadmalaw Community Center
WHEN: 9:30-11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Free information seminar.
Continental breakfast provided. To
register or for information call Herbert
@ 843.324.2894 or email hbodison@
CarolinaOne.com.
SATURDAY, APRIL 21-22
WHAT: Carmina Burana
WHERE: The Gaillard Center
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Featuring 150 singers from
The Charleston Symphony Chorus, 60 plus
musicians from The Charleston Symphony
Orchestra, and three guest vocalists,
alongside 28 dancers from Nashville Ballet.
Based on a collection of poems written
by clergy and theology students in the
11th, 12th and 13th centuries, Carmina
Burana examines love, fortune, and the
cycle of life. Purchase tickets by calling the
Gaillard Center 843.242.3099 or online
GaillardCenter.org
WHAT: Charleston Outdoor Fest
WHERE: James Island County Park
WHEN: Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 9
a.m.-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: 28th annual event
celebrates paddlesports and outdoor
recreation. Canoeing, kayaking and stand
up paddleboarding, mountain biking, slack
lining, archery, climbing and disc golf.
Attendees can try out equipment, compete
in races and other hands-on activities on site.
Event is free with $2 park admission. Visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com for details.
SUNDAY, APRIL 22
WHAT: Earth Day Learning
WHERE: Palmetto Lake and Equestrian Center
WHEN: 4-6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Seabrook Island Birders will
introduce you to the basics of birding. Free
for SIB members, $5 for guests. To register
visit SeabrookIslandBirders.org/bird-walks.
MONDAY, APRIL 23
WHAT: Par for Pets
WHERE: The River Course, Kiawah
WHEN: Registration at 10 a.m., Scramble
begins at noon
MORE INFO: Fundraiser for the
Charleston Animal Society. For
details and to register online visit
CharlestonAnimalSociety.org.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25
WHAT: 25th Annual Golf Tournament
WHERE: Briar’s Creek
WHEN: 11:30 a.m. registration, 1 p.m.
shotgun start
MORE INFO: Benefitting Our Lady
of Mercy Community Outreach,
event includes lunch and dinner and
awards ceremony. Register on-line at
OLMOutreach.org of contact Hannah
Finley at Hannah.Finley@olmoutreach.org.
FRIDAY, APRIL 27
WHAT: Project Trio
WHERE: Turtle Point Clubhouse
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Brought to you by the
Kiawah Arts and Cultural Events Council.
Tickets are complimentary, available to the
public April 13. Visit KiawahIsland.org/
events for tickets and information.
April 28
WHAT: Tax Workshop for Small
Business Owners
WHERE: 4050 Bridge View Dr., N
Charleston
WHEN: 9 a.m.-noon
MORE INFO: IRS sponsored workshop
is a public service for those who have a
small business or are thinking about going
into business. To register or for more
information call 843.740.6160.
SATURDAY, APRIL 28
WHAT: 5th Annual Dolphin Slam
WHERE: Bohicket Marina
WHEN: lines in 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
MORE INFO: April 26 is last day to
register. $200 entry fee, $25,000 prize for
State Record Dolphin. Reception on the
dock 3-9 p.m. Awards at 8 p.m. For info
visit Bohicket.com.
WHAT: Mullet Haul 5 and 10K Trail Run
WHERE: Mullet Hall Equestrian Center
WHEN: 8:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Dash then bash at the
Mullet Haul 5K/10K at Johns Island
County Park. Awards ceremony and
post-race party with delicious food, cold
beverages, and live music. Open to ages 10
and up; parent/guardian must sign waiver
for ages 16 and under. Fees: 5K: $32/$26
Move IT! Pass Holder; 10K: $36/$28
Move IT! Pass Holder. For info visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
14
Game, set, match and Championship!
V O LV O C A R O P E N W R A P S U P A N O T H E R G R E AT W E E K O F T O P
WOMEN’S TENNIS IN CHARLESTON
Kiki Bertens kisses her Volvo Car Open trophy, the
biggest win of her career.
Photo courtesy Volvo Car Open
“I
f you love tennis, this is the place to be,” said
a Tennis Channel commentator last Sunday
afternoon. And he wasn’t wrong. Thanks to the
Lowcountry’s erratic spring weather, Charleston tennis
fans were gifted a spectacular day of tennis at the Volvo
tennis
BY JENNIFER TUOHY
The Island Connection Contributing Editor
Car Open on Sunday, April 8. After a washed out
Saturday, eight top-level matches were played on the green
clay at Daniel Island’s Family Circle Stadium, starting
with the men’s legend’s event featuring Andy Roddick,
Mark Philippoussis, Tommy Haas and Michael Chang.
The men were followed by two women’s singles semi-
finals, a doubles semi-final and then the two finals. It was
a whirlwind day and this time the weather cooperated.
The only thing missing was an American to root for
in the championship match. Fan favorite Madison Keys
fell at the semis stage in a spectacular three-set match
that saw two tiebreaks and each player with match
point opportunities. Keys lost in the final set tiebreak to
eventual winner Kiki Bertens, a 26-year-old from The
Netherlands, who played Juila Georges of Germany in
the final.
Keys will be back though, in part because of the warm
reception she receives here. “Charleston fans are always
amazing,” she said. “It’s always so great to have kind of
the home crowd whenever I come here. And it’s definitely
not going to be the last time I’ll be here.”
Bertens, ranked 27th in the world, beat the German
Georges, 13th in the world, in straight sets, dropping
just 3 games to win 6-2, 6-1. This was Bertens’ third
appearance in Charleston, and until Sunday, she had not
dropped a set all week. The Dutch No. 1 becomes the
first player from her country to win in Charleston, and
the trophy is the biggest win of her career so far. Clay
April 13, 2018
is definitely her favorite surface, she’s been a semifinalist
at the French Open in 2016 and has won all five of her
career titles on clay.
“It’s just unbelievable,” Bertens said of her performance
in the tournament. “I think I cannot really realize it yet,
but I’m just so happy and proud I think of myself. It’s a
great start of the clay court season, and yeah, hopefully
still more to come, but this one I have already and I’m
really happy with that.”
In the doubles final, Alla Kudryavtseva and Katarina
Srebotnik beat Andreja Klepac and Maria Jose Martinez
Sanchez 6-3, 6-3 to take the title.
The nine-day Volvo Car Open (formerly the Family
Circle Cup) is the largest women’s-only tennis tournament
in North America. While it is in the international
spotlight and broadcast on The Tennis Channel, the
event has a truly local flavor with hundreds of volunteers
from all around the area - including many from the sea
islands - helping make the event a success. Additionally,
the players really get into the spirit of Charleston when
they come here. Last year Sloane Stephens spent time
with local school children and this year American
Bernarda Pera visited U.S. service members at Joint
Base Charleston. A group of players stopped by MUSC
Children’s Hospital to spend time with young patients
there; and Englishwoman Johanna Konta joined Japan’s
Naomi Osaka to play a little makeshift tennis atop The
Dewberry – with Charleston views all around them.