Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
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CHARLESTON SC
PERMIT NO 437
Volume 3 Issue 6 FREE July 10, 2009
“A nice little pond. It was clean. It was neat. The water was warm, there was plenty to eat. The turtles had everything turtles might
need. And they were all happy. Quite happy indeed.” ~ Yertle the Turtle by Dr. Seuss
D
r. Seuss had such a wonderful way of teaching island residents with a passionate interest in protecting Partners be approved by the Office of Coastal Resource
children to look outside of the box. In his short Captain Sam’s Spit, as well as the health and wellness Management.
story Yertle the Turtle, an overly ambitious turtle of the aquatic and mammalian residents of the Kiawah Battling 100 degree weather, the last kayaking group
demands that all of the other turtles in his pond stand on River, the Friends of The Kiawah River have organized took off from Mingo Point on June 20 and spent an hour
each other’s back and create a tower on which he could two fundraising kayak trips over the past few months. or so floating along the inlet in swim trunks and life
sit and observe his kingdom. But one turtle, at the base Both trips launched from Mingo Point and meandered preservers, enjoying the cool water and tranquility of the
of the tower, grew tired after standing for hours with so down the river to Captain Sam’s Inlet, where paddlers uninhabited end of the island.
many turtles on his back and said to King Yertle, “I don’t disembarked and explored the shoreline and bare sand On their return, the kayakers enjoyed pulled pork
like to complain, but down here below, we are feeling at the tail end of Captain Sam’s Spit. During the trip, barbeque and Johns Island tomato sandwiches (with Dukes
great pain. I know, up on top you are seeing great sights, naturalists and knowledgeable citizens shared information mayonnaise, of course) at Rosebank Farms while Marilyn
but down at the bottom, we, too, should have rights.” about the resident species of the river, and pointed out Blizzard introduced the group to a young diamondback
Those words could be the ongoing motto for the where future developments would be built should the
Friends of the Kiawah River organization. Formed by Steel Sheet Pile Wall request by Kiawah Development Kiawah River continued on page 7
I n s id e t h e I sl a nd Con nection. . .
page 4 Fire festival page 5 Unsafe at any speed page 10 island osprey nests
2 July 10, 2009
Give a smile T
his old mobile home was purchased by Mrs. the home to a framed and dried-in condition, fully
Shirley Smiley in 1975. It is beyond repair, roofed and sided. Locally, those generously giving
with numerous deficiencies that make it of their time and expertise are Stubbs, Muldrow
and five years from now, they should be What a racquet Charleston Visitor’s Bureau report
Council continued from page 2 able to handle it on their own,” said the Council unanimously approved the set Katie Chapman of the Charleston
company can no longer make any of the Mayor. “That way, they’re not locked in up of a 20 x 30 foot tent on the front Visitor’s Bureau thanked the Town for
Utility’s payments, which is in violation and they could take it over themselves lawn of the Racquet Club “to provide hosting several members from a recent
of the bond covenant. “So something as soon as they were able.” McNulty shade relief for the players and spectators travel writers conference, noting that the
has to be done to come up with the noted that this was just a suggestion, but between matches and during lunch” attendees thoroughly enjoyed their visit
$435,000,” said the Mayor. “Joe talked stated that no insurance company will between October 7 and October 11, to the island and to the new Beach Club.
to some banks for a loan guarantee. They touch the Utility Commission right now. 2009, for the Alan Fleming Senior Clay In attendance were writers for National
don’t have to put up any money; they “It’s not just us, either,” he explained. Court Tennis Tournament. Geographic and USA Today, as well as the
just need to have it as a line of available “There are a lot of municipalities in incoming president of the travel writers
credit. However, if they go that route this same boat. We’re not unique, but Ordinance 2009-04: Seabrook organization. Chapman noted that they
and want to change halfway through, we’re fortunate that we might be able Comprehensive Plan had already received some articles from
they can’t; they’re locked in.” The other to handle it ourselves.” Even though a With a few minor editorial changes, the attending writers and expected more
possibility, said McNulty, would be for vote was not taken at the time, Mayor Seabrook Council unanimously approved throughout the coming year.
the Town to put $435,000 in escrow for McNulty remarked that, according to the the first reading of the Seabrook Island
the Utility Commission. “The cash flow Commission’s lawyers, they would have Comprehensive Plan, which is required
for the Commission is usually fine to do something soon. by the State “to be reviewed every five
years to determine whether changes
in the amount, kind or direction of
development of the area or other reasons
make it desirable to make additions or
amendments to the plan, and further
requires the Comprehensive Plan,
including all elements of it, to be updated
at least every ten years.” A public hearing
on the ordinance will be held ten minutes
before the 2:30pm Town Council
meeting on Tuesday, July 28. Copies of
the Comprehensive Plan are available at
Town Hall.
www.islandconnectionnews.com
4 July 10, 2009
One festival
F
ire engines were parked left and right around the Freshfields Village Green on
Thursday, July 2, but they weren’t there on business. Along with two ladder
trucks, a smoke house simulator and a gigantic inflatable fire truck slide, the
St. Johns Fire Department spent Thursday evening celebrating their first festival
of the year in honor of the department’s 50 year anniversary. Children at the event
received coloring books with firefighting facts and fire safety instructions, as well as
red firefighter hats and pins to commemorate the event. T-shirts were also available for
sale, and hot dogs and drinks were provided, complimentary, by the fire department.
Demonstrations were provided by the St. Johns Combat Challenge Team, who showed
off their skills by running various obstacle courses, in many cases carrying a 165 pound
practice dummy. Most of the firefighters present had been with the department for
their whole working career and jokingly referred to the people who had been with the
department for ten years as “newbies”. All were happy to share their knowledge, and
it was encouraging to hear the passion in their voices as they talked about the days in
the life of a firefighter.
The next festival will be held in October on the official 50 year anniversary of the
St. Johns Fire Department.
(far left) Holly Nourigat and Chris Curran of the St. Johns Combat Challenge Team. (left) Engineer
Steven Corbett, firefighter with St. Johns since 1989. (top) Firefighters Stormy Haynes, Justin Riley and
David Thames. (above) Tom Kulick of the St. Johns Fire Commission, Wendy Kulick and Chief Carl
Ristow.
www.islandconnectionnews.com
July 10, 2009 5
L
ast year, the Post and Courier the Department of Public Safety. This rate on Johns Island is just short of 10 the area grows. If something unexpected
carried an article reporting on a new data, reported by police officers on accidents per week. Eighty-seven percent happens, there is no place to go: the
study prepared by a non-profit the scene, are quite detailed. The 1023 of the accidents take place on four roads: vehicle inevitably hits one of the roadside
Washington D.C. transportation research observations of automobile accidents on Maybank, Main, River and Bohicket. trees. The greater the traffic density, the
group, T.R.I.P., showing that two of the Johns Island and its approaches from the Maybank Highway and Main Road had more likely there is to be an accident and
major routes on Johns Island, Bohicket/ past two years answers several of the most more accidents and more injuries than the the higher the death and injury rates. The
Main/Betsy Kerrison and River Road, frequently asked questions concerning other roads, but River Road had the most irony is that no one wants to cut down
were among the most dangerous in the Johns Island traffic safety: where did these deaths. The four deaths on River Road can the trees. They are one of the aspects that
state. Accident data from the South accidents occur? When? Why? be attributed to its narrow travel lanes, define the rural character of Johns Island
Carolina Department of Public Safety Note that the island had approximately sharp curves, lack of shoulders, and the and the reason most of us live here.
found that from 2003 through 2006, 15,000 residents in 2007 and 2008, fact that the shoulders are overgrown with What can be learned from the new
there were 22 fatalities on Johns Island yet more than 50,000 vehicle trips were century-old live oaks growing at the edge data that will help slow the accident rate
roads. Of these, nine of the victims were recorded on the island each day. By 2030, of the pavement. on Johns Island roads? Two things appear
residents of Johns Island, eight were from the volumes crossing the Stono Bridge Most of the accidents and deaths took to emerge from the data: First, it should be
Charleston, and the remaining five were alone are forecast to reach 60,000 vehicles place on dry pavement, in clear weather, apparent that increasing police enforcement
from other communities in the region. In per day. This is clearly a recipe for disaster. and during the daylight hours, though for speeding on Johns Island roads would
addition to the 22 dead, 11 were seriously With this growth in traffic, it is not darkness seems to play a slightly larger role help, but it will not stop inattentiveness,
injured. These accidents can be directly surprising that these grim statistics have at dawn/dusk/dark. The most frequently failure to yield the right-of-way, following
attributed to the engineering, congestion continued, and the need to understand cited cause of accidents is that the driver too closely, animals in the road, fatigue,
and condition of the roads themselves. the accidents, what caused them, and what was distracted or inattentive. Surprisingly, medical problems, faults with the vehicle,
Unfortunately, limitations in the data can be done to improve this situation has in this database the category “exceeded driving under the influence or any of the
available from the Department of Public become imperative. speed limit” is not even in the top ten of 29 other probable causes of accidents
Safety at the time of the original article In the two-year period covered by the list of probable causes of accidents on reported in the database.
made it impossible to know where the the new data, there were 1023 recorded Johns Island. In fact, it does not appear Second, the widening of existing roads
accidents occurred or what caused them. accidents, 343 of which led to a total of until number 15 on the list, below a number will increase capacity on the roadways and
However, new data on accidents in 507 injuries. Most importantly, there of other common probable causes. make driving easier and safer, but unless
2007 and 2008 are now available from were 14 deaths. The overall accident A not too remarkable fact that comes we are willing to cut down the roadside
out of the data is that trees play a major trees, they will still threaten driver safety.
Going greenway
role in half of the accidents involved when One must consider the growth potential
there is a death. This is due to the nature of the area, the rate of growth over the
of the tree-lined roads on Johns Island. past years and the wishes of present
In fact, “hitting a tree” comprised 89 of residents on the island who want to retain
By Sam Reed
T
the accidents, 58 of the injuries and 7 of the island’s rural character. With this in
he major roads on southern Johns Island are among the most dangerous and
the 14 recorded deaths. The problem is mind, the solution that makes the most
accident-prone in South Carolina. These are Bohicket Road, River Road, obvious. The roads on Johns Island have sense is the one recommended by five
and Main Road. They have averaged more than one and a half accidents the same antiquated design standards separate engineering studies over the past
per week over a recent two year period (2007 and 2008). And, as development they had when they were upgraded from 20 years: remove traffic from the existing
occurs – as it certainly will – the congestion and safety hazards multiply. the two-lane gravel roads built at the roads by diverting it to a new alignment
Representatives from Johns Island, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island, along turn of the last century. Traffic volumes constructed to modern standards. This
with others, have been attempting to reach some acceptable plan to alleviate this -- already heavy on these beautiful tree- will improve safety and accommodate
canopied roads -- continue to increase as current and anticipated traffic levels.
situation, which really impacts much of Charleston County.
Most of the drivers arriving at Freshfields Village, at the south end of Betsy
Kerrison Parkway, are from locations other than Kiawah or Seabrook.
County, Town, and City officials are now seriously examining the concept of a
limited-access greenway, with a possible biking and hiking path alongside, which
would preserve the natural beauty and environmental sanctity of the area. This
greenway could run between, and roughly parallel to, Bohicket and River Roads.
The marvelous tree canopies on these roads would be preserved.
Heavy traffic could be removed from Bohicket and River Roads. This new
greenway would be less costly to develop, and would involve much less disruption
of property than would a widening of Bohicket and/or River Roads.
Concerned citizens from southern Johns Island are working diligently to
promote this project so as to save lives and reduce accidents in the area.
www.islandconnectionnews.com
6 July 10, 2009
What are the I-526 choices?
by BarbarA Winslow
Attend a presentation on July 15 at Maybank Highway on Johns Island and wTransportation System Management an opportunity to learn more about the
4pm at the Kiawah Sandcastle and find then across to James Island to end at the wNo-Build different choices and be able to have his/
out what the options are for I-526. existing James Island Connector/Folly Public hearings were held this spring her questions answered by an expert.
Discussion about the I-526 Extension Road interchange. It will use 6.6 acres so that anyone interested could attend, Join SCDOT Project Manager David
has been going on for what seems like of wetlands and require 28 business/ view all the alternatives and have a Kinard; Karen Hadley from consultants
decades. The longer it’s talked about, residential relocations. representative from each of the firms Wilbur-Smith; Dr. Richard Darden,
the more complex the issue becomes. wAlternative 11: Follows the alignment answer questions and comments on a Project Manager, and an SCDOT Liaison
Thirty-six alternate routes were considered of alternative 15 from I-526/US 17 to the one-on-one basis. from the Corps of Engineers on July 15 at
by the SC Department of Transportation, James Island Connector. This alternative KPOG thought bringing the display 4pm at the Sandcastle on Kiawah as they
its consultants Wilbur-Smith and the provides two spurs on Johns Island, 11a boards and people to Kiawah for this discuss the Alternate Routes, explain why
Corps of Engineers. and 11b. These partial interchanges are same kind of personal presentation they were selected and answer questions
Those thirty-six have been narrowed located at Maybank Highway and River would give everyone on the Sea Islands from the audience.
down to the following alternatives: Road north of Maybank Highway (11a)
wAlternative 1: Extends from the and/or River Road south of Maybank
Highway (11b). It will use 26.4 acres
Rural Mission Sea Island Celebration
existing interchange at 1-526/US 17,
across the Stono River, to intersect of wetlands and require 18 business/ and Blues on the Common
Maybank Highway on Johns Island and residential relocations.
Friday, August 7, 2009
then across to James Island to end at wAlternative 11a: Follows the alignment
of alternative 15 from I-526/US 17 to the Put this date on your calendar for a wonderful evening to support
the existing James Island Connector/
James Island Connector. This alternative the outreach programs of the Rural Mission.
Folly Road interchange. It will use 14.1
acres of wetlands and require 7 business/ provides a partial interchange at Maybank
residential relocations. Highway and River Road north of
wAlternative 8: Extends from the Maybank Highway. It will use 21.7 acres
existing interchange at I-526/US 17, of wetlands and require 15 business/
across the Stono River, to intersect residential relocations.
Maybank Highway on Johns Island and wAlternative 36: Is a combination
then across to James Island to end at the of alternatives 11 and 18. It follows the
existing James Island Connector/Folly mainline of alternative 18 as a parkway
Road interchange. It will use 6.8 acres concept. It has an interchange ramp
of wetlands and require 39 business/ north of Maybank Highway at River
residential relocations. Road and one at-grade intersection south Enjoy a memorable Sea Island dinner on the lawn as you listen to blues
wAlternative 10: Extends from the of Maybank at River Road. It will use 7.1 from local favorite Shrimp City Slim and participate in a terrific auction/raffle
existing interchange at I-526/US 17, acres of wetlands and require 13 business/ with great items to tempt every taste and wish.
across the Stono River, to intersect residential relocations.
wAlternative 25 (mass transit)
www.islandconnectionnews.com
July 10, 2009 7
(l to r) Elizabeth Huggins of Darkness to Light, Fred Ristow of the Kiawah/Seabrook Exchange Club and
Carol Hogue, presenter for Stewards of Children.
“W
e can’t assume because and pass them out to local doctor’s offices
of someone’s role in the and charity health organizations. “We
community that they’re need to get all of the Exchange Clubs in
safe,” said speaker Carol Hogue of the the state involved,” Ristow said. “This is
Darkness to Light program, Stewards of right up their alley.”
Children. “These people often go out of Before the end of the session, Elizabeth
their way to be trustworthy.” Huggins of the local Darkness to Light
Amidst such cautionary notes, Hogue chapter announced that their organization
showed the 34 islanders in attendance a is holding a Prevent-a-thon throughout
three part film, outlining the many ways the month of August. “We’ll be hosting
in which one can not only spot a sexual a Riverdogs game and giving free training
predator, but how to prevent potentially through the community,” said Huggins,
compromising situations and what to do pointing out that free training would also
if you suspect someone of sexually illicit be given to 3,000 school teachers in the
behavior. Charleston County school district during
As part of the national Exchange the month-long promotion.
Club’s mission, preventing child abuse, Special thanks go to the Seabrook
Exchangite Fred Ristow was instrumental Town staff for providing the use of the
in bringing the Stewards of Children Town Hall for the meeting. Ristow asked
training program to the island. Though that attendees donate toward the cost
he wished that more people had attended, of the booklets, literature and training
he was thrilled with those that did come provided by the session and thanked
to this important training session. “So everyone for attending such an important
far, over 160,000 people around the information session.
world have attended these lectures,”
For more information on Darkness to
said Ristow. “And 10,000 of them
Light and the Stewards of Children program,
were in the tri-county area.” The next
or to make a donation to support further
Exchange Club project, he noted, will
training, please visit www.darkness2light.
be to create brochures listing the seven
org.
steps to prevent child abuse, English
on one side and Spanish on the other,
Step 1: Learn the facts and understand the risks. Realities – not trust – should
influence your decisions regarding children.
Step 2: Minimize opportunity. If you eliminate or reduce one-adult/one-child
situations, you’ll dramatically lower the risk of sexual abuse for children.
Step 3: Talk about it. Children often keep abuse a secret, but barriers can be
broken down by talking openly about it.
Step 4: Stay alert. Don’t expect obvious signs when a child is being sexually
abused. Signs are often there but you’ve got to spot them.
Step 5: Make a plan. Learn where to go, whom to call, and how to react.
Step 6: Act on suspicions. The future well being of a child is at stake.
Step 7: Get involved.Volunteer and financially support organizations.
www.islandconnectionnews.com
8 July 10, 2009
www.islandconnectionnews.com
July 10, 2009 9
(l to r) Royal Indigo Development project manager Ben Daley, owner Candace Dyal and Craig Gentilyn of Royal
Indigo Development Company.
www.islandconnectionnews.com
10 July 10, 2009
P
erched high on a pine tree on Seabrook’s Long Island bulky stick nests atop trees, rocky cliffs, and – on a few completed their 2009 nesting survey. Check out the map
was an osprey. We were sailing on the Kiawah islands free of mammalian predators – on the ground. of nest locations and see if you can locate them in trees
River on our way to the Atlantic through Captain While some continue to use such natural sites, many and on manmade structures while the ospreys are still
Sam’s Inlet when a distinct “cheep! cheep!” brought my have shifted to artificial sites. Channel markers along the nesting. Remember, a female will lay two to four eggs,
gaze upward in search of this legendary sea hawk. Had waterways, cell towers, and thousands of nesting poles and then both male and female will incubate the eggs
I not heard its call, I would have never seen him there in erected just for this species have all helped breeding pairs for about five weeks. After hatching, it takes a good two
the tree. The dark brown and white coloration offered of osprey in recent decades. Like many species effected by months before the young are able to fly. Stay updated
excellent camouflage amidst the pines. Just as I spotted pesticides (especially DDT), the osprey population took with our nesting ospreys and other wildlife sightings by
him in the tree he took flight, allowing the rest of my a dive between the 1950s and 1970s. With the ban of visiting the Nature Program’s Wildlife: As We See It
group to see this bird of prey in action. Soaring gracefully persistent pesticide use and the addition of artificial nest website: www.kiawahwildlife.com.
in the air over the water, he paused and hovered like a sites, the osprey population has made a rapid comeback.
hummingbird, still high in the air. Catching sight of a In fact, Cornell’s Ornithology Lab states that the shift to About the author: Jennifer is a Naturalist with the
fish in the shallow water below, his wings bent and down artificial nest sites has been dramatic in many regions, Kiawah Island Nature Program. To contact her with
he went, dramatically diving for his prey. In an instant with 90 – 95% of pairs choosing artificial sites, where comments or personal stories, email her at Jennifer_
he was back out of the water with a fish flipping wildly “Predation, loss of trees, and development of shorelines Barbour@kiawahresort.com.
in his talons. With the added weight and awkward have been [the] driving forces behind the change.” * Information from Cornell’s Lab of Ornathology was used
movements beneath him, the osprey no longer soared in The Kiawah Island Community Association has in this article.
flight. His wet feathers gave him somewhat
of a wild and crazy appearance as he flew
back to the pine tree to feast on the fish he
had caught.
Many residents and guests of our islands
enjoy the sight of this spectacular bird of
prey. The osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is the
continent’s only raptor which eats live fish
almost exclusively, and the only raptor that
plunges into the water. Its toes are of equal
length, the outer being reversible, allowing it
to grasp its prey with two toes in front and
two toes behind. They also have backwards-
facing scales on the pads of their toes which
act as barbs, helping to hold their slippery
catch. The osprey is well adapted and
perfectly designed for its diet of fish.
We receive many calls at the Nature
Center inquiring about osprey nest sites on
Kiawah. Historically, ospreys built their
For a larger, printable version of this map, visit www.islandconnectionnews.com
B
ranged from rich oils to watercolors to wood carvings, sculptures and pottery. Almost
all of the artists were present and were happy to explain each piece; detailing where each music drifted through the air at the Sandcastle on Kiawah as dancers
each landscape was inspired, where each dark-eyed turtle resided and how they came moved to and fro, laughing as they cautiously stepped out the new moves they
to work with their particular medium. Rosebank Farms provided the wine and to learned during the shag lessons held earlier in the evening. It was a comfortable,
top it all off, author and former food writer for the Post and Courier, Holly Herrick, casual and thoroughly enjoyable end to the Kiawah Arts Council season. Squeezed
signed copies of her new book Southern Farmers Market Cookbook, which features in before the obligatory evening thunderstorm on June 27, the group The Islanders
75 recipes focusing on fresh produce, fruits, and products grown in southern states. performed several beach favorites while dancers took turns between the dance floor
Appetizers from Herrick’s new book were available for sampling as well, each created and the colorfully decorated poolside tables. Charles Lipuma, Chairman of the Arts
with Rosebank produce. Works of art from the various artists are still available for sale Council, also took a moment to thank everyone for their attendance, both that evening
at the farm. and throughout the year. “This past season has been one of the best because of you and
the people who have come to our events,” he said. “Thank you, and thank you to the
members of the Arts Council who helped to pull off these events. It took a lot of effort,
but we couldn’t have done it without you.”
He noted that the Council had spent $125,000 this past year on events, and had
no plans of slowing down for the 2009-2010 year. Twenty events have already been
lined up, kicking off on September 30 at 7:30pm with the Fred Moyer Jazz Arts Trio
at Church of Our Saviour. “Thank you for a job well done,” Lipuma smiled. Before
joining the bevy of eager dancers, however, he happily announced that today was the
50th wedding anniversary of Kiawah Islanders Bill & Marilyn Blizzard, and wished
them a happy anniversary from both him and the rest of the Arts Council.
Artist Olessia Maximenko sits in front of a few of her paintings at the Rosebank Artfest.
www.islandconnectionnews.com
July 10, 2009 13
4th of July
www.islandconnectionnews.com
Island Connection Calendar
July 10 - July 26
Friday, July 10 Monday, July 13 Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah more information, please contact Robert
Island. For more info, call Guest Services McBride at 768-3696.
Music on the Green Farmers & Art Market at the at 768-6491.
From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village Freshfields Village Green Wednesday, July 22
Green, enjoy the music of Plane Jane. From 4 – 8pm, visit local farmers, Fourth Annual Palette and Palate
Six vocalists harmonize to form a artisans, and food vendors who offer Stroll Starlight Cinema: Madagascar: Escape
trademark vocal sound while two multi- a variety of the freshest local produce Fine art and food connoisseurs will stroll 2 Africa
instrumentalists rev up the audience. and unique handmade crafts, including through the historic streets of downtown Starting at 9pm at the Freshfields Village
Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah honey, flowers, handmade jewelry, Charleston, sampling tastings from Green. Rated PG. 89 minutes. Sponsored
Island. For more info, contact Guest sweetgrass baskets, food, and much more. thirteen of the finest local restaurants by SeaCoast Sports and Outfitters. For
Services at 768-6491. Various stores will feature local artists in the beautiful setting of thirteen more info, call Guest Services at 768-
each week. For more info, call Guest prestigious galleries. The Palette and 6491.
Saturday, July 11 Services at 768-6491. Palate Stroll starts at 5:30pm and ends
at 7:30pm. Tickets are $30 each and St. Johns Rotary Club
Habitat Wall Raising event Tuesday, July 14 See Wednesday, July 15.
From 8am—4pm in Brownswood Place, reservations are required. Tickets can be
purchased by calling 819-8006 or on-line
1104 Revelation Court, Johns Island, join Bastille Day
at www.cfada.com. Thursday, July 23
Lowcountry Lutherans and volunteers,
Sea Island Habitat for Humanity staff Wednesday, July 15 Seabrook Island Camera Club
and AmeriCorps members, local pastors Battery Wagner reenactment at Morris Professor Donna Hurt: “History of
and community leaders as they help raise Starlight Cinema: Bedtime Stories Island Photography”. The Seabrook Island
the walls on a new home for the Wittrell Starting at 9pm at the Freshfields Village On the 146th anniversary of the Assault Camera Club meets on the fourth
family. The event is free and open to the Green. Rated PG. 99 minutes. Sponsored on Battery Wagner, volunteer reenactors Thursday of every month at 7pm at the
public. For more information or to get by SeaCoast Sports and Outfitters. For from Company I, 54th Massachusetts SIPOA Community Center. For more
involved with the build, please contact more info, call Guest Services at 768- Reenactment Regiment will honor the info, please call Judy Bailey at 768-4142.
Molly Coffey at Sea Island Habitat for 6491. men that participated in that historic
Humanity at 843-768-0998 x112. battle on July 18, 1863. The event Friday, July 24
St. Johns Rotary Club will occur on Morris Island and boat
The St Johns Rotary Club meets regularly will leave at 3pm, and return at 5pm. Betsy’s Bash
Grass on the Green
at 7:30am each Wednesday morning Reservations: Joseph McGill 408-7727. In honor of the rescued Staffordshire
A Benefit for Windwood Farm Home for
in the multipurpose room at Berkeley Cost: $25 each. Terrier who was found with a missing
children and Lowcountry pet helpers,
Electric Cooperative located at 3351 paw. From 6pm - 10pm at Necter Bar
Grass on the Green takes place July
11 and 12 at Awendaw Green, next to Maybank Highway, Johns Island. For Saturday, July 18 and Grille located at 951 Folly Road,
more info, please contact Martha Harris James Island. $10 Donation/Cover at the
Hidden Ponds nursery at 4879 Hwy 17 Folly to Kiawah Kayak Tour
at 559-6955. Door, cash only. All proceeds will go to
N Awendaw. Join us for a full schedule of We’ll depart the Folly River boat landing Pet Helpers. Free food, live music and
bluegrass and Americana music, featuring and paddle to Sandy Point on Kiawah
over 30 of the Southeast’s finest acoustic Friday, July 17 amazing drink specials! For more info,
Island. Along the way, there will be call Pet Helpers at 795-1110.
talents. Noon – 10am both days. Tickets: Music on the Green opportunities for possible shorebird and
$20 both days/$15 one day at etix.com, From 6 – 9pm at the Freshfields Village dolphin sightings. Once there, you’ll Freshfields Spring Concert Series
Shem Creek Music, 52.5 on King Street Green. Music from the Rum Punch be able to hike on this unique barrier From 6-9 pm, the Spring Concert series
and at the Sewee Outpost. Respectful Bandits, playing a variety of genres such island. Pre-registration required. Meet at wraps up with Congdon & Company.
overnight camping is welcome. For more as beach, classic rock, Tex-rock, gulf- Charleston County Parks Headquarters. Led by John Congdon, the band
info, 452-1642 or email awendawgreen@ n-western, troop-rock and jam-rock. Ages 16+. Fee: $54. Course #20513. 9am performs a variety of tunes from pop,
gmail.com. – 5pm. For more info or to register, call rock and roll, rhythm & blues, jazz, and
795-4386. beach music. For more info, call 768-
6491.
Monday, July 20 Kicking it for Habitat
Farmers & Art Market at the The Charleston Battery meets the
Freshfields Village Green Carolina Railhawks in Blackbaud
See Monday, July 13. Stadium in a match that will benefit area
Habitat for Humanity organizations.
Tuesday, July 21 Kickoff is at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15/ea.
and can be purchased by contacting Sea
Seabrook Island Art Guild (SIAG) Island Habitat for Humanity at 768-
meeting 0998.
The Seabrook Island Art Guild meets on
the third Tuesday of every month at the Sunday, July 26
Property Owners Association building at
3pm. If you would like to join the Guild, Parent’s Day
membership dues are $20/year. For
www.islandconnectionnews.com
July 10, 2009 15
Volunteerism: A way of
life on Seabrook
By Lisa Hillman
O
n a warm Wednesday afternoon at SINHG strongly believes in doing their
the end of May, a “changing of the part to keep the Lowcountry a special
guard” took place as the Seabrook place to live, and many local programs
Island Natural History Group (SINHG) benefit as a result. Besides serving on the
board, led by Don Smith, handed the reins board of SINHG, these individuals also
to the new 2009-2010 officers headed by volunteer their time and effort with the
president Pete Hubbard. Turtle Patrol, Haut Gap Middle School,
The Seabrook Island Natural History Mount Zion Elementary School, Habitat
Group is an educational and social group for Humanity, the Garden Club, The
that provides members with field trips Green Space Conservancy, The Exchange
and lectures involving topics of natural Club, the Town Planning Commission,
and historical significance. SINHG has villa regimes, local churches and property Back row: Shirley Hanson Smith, Betsy Turner, Janet Gorski, Cindy Cornwell, Harry Clark,
grown in popularity and membership owners and club committees. Pete Hubbard. Front row: Kimber Smith, Pat Greubel, Lisa Hillman. On vacation (missing
through the hard work of many dedicated When asked why he became involved from photo): Bob Fisk, Paula Adamson, Roberta Boatti, Dick Clarke.
volunteers. in leading SINHG, Pete Hubbard replied,
Kathy Maher, a former co-chair of the “I love the idea of educating members, as As IVes sees it
Something in common
Trips Committee, stated that, “The spirit well as the local school children about our
of this island is volunteerism. It is about unique habitat. This is an opportunity
doing your part.” This is why a band of to learn about and give back to these
thirteen stepped up to fill the big shoes of wonderful people and this beautiful
place.” By Dwight S. Ives MA, MA, LUTCF
the outgoing board.
T
his article is dedicated to the fine people associated with the
Ta k e a p a g e
Johns Island Regional Library
Mediterranean Shipping Company, the largest privately owned shipping
company in the world whose local office is located in Mt. Pleasant, SC.
But, the home office is located in the country of my ancestors, Italy! Thanks
3531 Maybank Highway Saturday Movie: Hotel For Dogs (all for reading either by the Internet or local papers.
559-1945 ages) In the very early 1800s, my great great-grandfather, Captain Joseph Bee,
Hours: Saturday, July 11 at 3pm left Genoa, Italy, for the promise of a better life in America. Either during the
Monday – Thursday: 10 – 8 Rated: PG: 100 minutes. Sponsor: The voyage or shortly thereafter, he met and married the red haired and very Irish
Friday & Saturday: 10 – 6 UPS Store, 3575 Maybank Highway, Mary Brighton. Upon arrival, Captain Joe lost his true Italian name due to
Sunday: 2 – 5 John’s Island. misunderstandings with Immigration officials. His name was Americanized,
as was common in the day, and he became Joseph Bee forevermore.
Wee Reads (under 24 months with Art Project from Redux Art Studios My great-great grandparents had two sons, Peter Bee (my great grandfather)
adult) (ages 11 years old and younger) and Joe Junior. Both became ship captains like their father, plying the waters
Mondays, July 13, 20, and 27 at Monday, July 13 at 2pm of the Ashley River while hauling cotton, rice, etc. from the plantations along
10:30am Local Artists from Redux Art Studios the way to the mills in Charleston. Eventually, they participated in the historic
Dixie Run by hauling sugar cane (Dixie Crystal sugar) from various ports to
will bring a fun art project for us to
Savannah, Georgia, for processing.
Time for Twos (2 – 3 years old with complete!
adult) How the South became known as the land of Dixie is a matter of debate,
but the most logical explanation ties in perfectly with historical events. Prior
Tuesdays, July 14, 21, and 28 at Club Anime! (ages 12-19)
to the Civil War, The Citizens Bank of Louisiana used ten-dollar French notes
10:30am Saturday, July 18 from 3 - 4:30pm known as Dix (or ten dollar bills) as currency. During the war, according
to sources, this monetary unit was not only stronger than that of that of the
Preschool Storytime (3 – 6 years) Houdini 2: the Magician (ages 11 Confederacy, but also universally recognized throughout the South and abroad.
Wednesdays, July 15, 22 and 29 at years old and younger) Hence, the South became known as the land of the Dix-ie (a name change just
10:30am Monday, July 20 at 2pm like my ancestor’s).
It seems to be a well-known fact in my family that my great-great grandfather
Saturday Family Storytime (all ages) Sea Islands Book Club (adults) had problems speaking the English language. The attraction between himself
Saturdays, July 11, 18, and 25 at 11am Tuesday, July 21 at 2pm and his wife must have been great to overcome the language barrier. At any
We’ll be discussing Water for Elephants rate, according to family legend, the Confederate Army marched passed their
*Word: Beyond the Basics (adults) by Sara Gruen. modest house in Stallsville, a suburb of Summerville, SC. The soldiers were
Tuesday, July 14 from 10am – 12 Noon about to burn their house down, thinking that the couple was of Yankee origin
Summer Reading Finale (ages 11 due to their accents. At the last minute, one of the soldier realized their error
*Excel Basics (adults) years old and younger) and said in effect, “Hold it boys! They are not Yankees but some of our people!”
Tuesday, July 21 from 10am – 12 Monday, July 27 at 2pm The army marched on, leaving the house intact. Maybe they discovered that
Noon Joe Junior was also serving in the Confederate Army.
Displays My family’s love of sailing and the ocean in general continued into the last
*Excel: Beyond the Basics (adults) Quilted Wall Hanging century with my great uncle, Captain Jessie Bee, who operated a charter fishing
Tuesday, July 28 from 10am – 12 May-July. A quilted wall hanging boat service just a few hundred yards north of the Limehouse Bridge on Johns
Noon Island. He would take fishermen from the dock up the Stono River and out
entitled “Three Generations” was
to the Atlantic Ocean. Meanwhile, a distant cousin was serving as a tug boat
designed and quilted by Master captain, pushing huge barges up the Ashley River thru the Wappoo Cut (a.k.a.
*All computer classes are free. For more Quilter, Nora R. Williams. The Cut and also Elliott’s Cut), passing my Grandmother’s house to the Stono,
information please call 559-1945 and and down the Intracoastal Waterway. The giant tug, standing several stories
ask for the Reference Department. Class Low Country Dolls tall, could push two or three barges lashed together at a time. As my cousin
space is available for 8 participants per June-July. Beautifully sculptured maneuvered thru the tight sliver of water in The Cut, we would frantically flash
session. Lowcountry dolls. a huge spotlight visible from the water, hoping to elicit his response from the
wheelhouse. Upon seeing our light, he would swing his huge searchlight right
Wired (rising 6-12 graders) Photography Exhibit in the window where we stood until we were out of range or he needed to see
Wednesday, July 22 from 2:30 – July 1-31 what lurked ahead. My grandmother’s house was located at the merging of The
4:30pm Kiawah Island Photography Club will Cut and the Stono River.
display photographs covering a broad Those days are gone, but my family’s love of the sea has never diminished.
Knitting Group (adults) range of subject. It’s in our Italian blood!
Thursday, July 23 from 6 – 7:30pm
www.islandconnectionnews.com