Since May 2007
PRESORT STANDARD
Volume 10 Issue 22
35 non-profit organizations honored
Lowcountry Orphan Relief. Joe Bauer, Regina Sharpe and Pres. Blasch
BY LORRAINE LEARY
For The Island Connection
T
hirty-five non-profit charitable organizations were
honored on Wednesday, January 18, at the Kiawah-
Seabrook Exchange Chapters first annual Grant
Recipients Dinner at the Seabrook Island Club. The evening
event was a great success. Members welcomed guests and had the
opportunity to learn about each organizations positive impact
on our islands and the Lowcountry area.
K-S Exchange Chapters grants are made possible by the
civic-minded, generous, local businesses that advertise in the
clubs annual Directory Handbook. Grants were awarded in
the categories of Community Service and Hunger, Child Abuse
Prevention and Youth and Education.
There were about 100 members in attendance and we had
the opportunity to meet with many of the organizations that
received grant checks. Larrys cheeks are sore from smiling with
Edisto Back in Business
Page 8
FREE
PHOTO BY ED LEARY
each recipient at the photo op after the check presentations!
The idea of bringing all of the Grantees together at one time
was the brainchild of our Speakers Bureau committee chaired
by Laura Stefanelli. Numerous Exchange Club members worked
hard to ensure that all Grant recipients were invited, that
powerpoint slides were created (thanks to Bill Nelson!) and that
the Grant recipients were made welcome during the cocktail
hour, dinner and afterwards. Laura did an excellent job as the
M.C. and the whole event went very smoothly.
The Executive Committee is looking forward to making this
an annual event (in October or November).
After Dinner Presentation and Angel Oak Award Winner
Announcement:
Non-profits continues from cover
Artistic Adventures
Page 9
US POSTAGE PAID
CHARLESTON SC
POSTAL PATRON
PERMIT NO 437
February 3, 2017
Seabrook
Island
womens
bible group
coat drive
a success
BY MARAIDE SULLIVAN
For The Island Connection
T
he Seabrook Island Womens Bible
Study group recently had a coat
drive to benefit the ministry of
the Salvation Army in W. Ashley. Major
Thomas Richmond met with some of the
women when he came to pick up over
50 gently used or almost new coats. The
Salvation Army has been serving those in
need since 1865. Major Richmond is a 5th
generation family member serving with
this top ranked international organization.
The Major was very appreciative of the
coats and said that they will be gone
within 3 to 4 days. The coats would be
given to those in need and not be sold.
The Seabrook Island Womens Bible
Study group has been meeting for eight
years at the Lake House. Most of the
women live on Seabrook Island and
some live on Kiawah or at Kiawah River
Estates. The women come from various
denominations and enjoy studying the
Bible and having a time of fellowship. The
group rotates with various video teachings
and workbooks.
There are many thought provoking
teachers that have video series. We get
exposure to a lot of popular speakers
and great teaching, stated Patti Tully, a
member of the leadership team.
Newcomers are always welcome and
many members attend seasonally. The
next series will meet at the Lake House
on Mondays from 1:30-3:30 p.m. from
January 9- May 22. For more information
please contact Patti Tully at 843.768.8097,
pattitully@gmail.com, or Jody Garvey at
317.371.2330, garveyjody@gmail.com.
Warm Winter Waffles
Page 15
2 February 3, 2017
civic

Seabrook Island Town Council

Lynn Pierotti
publisher
has cause to celebrate
lynn@luckydognews.com BY GREGG BRAGG
The Island Connection Staff Writer
Amy Mercer

T
amy@luckydognews.com he Town of Seabrook Island
managing editor Town Council (SITC) meeting
began with a jolt on January 24,
Jennifer Tuohy 2017. Conversations hummed amongst
a large group of attendees until the
jennifer@luckydognews.com gavel fell. True to form, clerk Faye
contributing editor Allbritton confirmed meeting notices
had been filed in accordance with the
Alejandro Ferreyros Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Her
senior graphic designer confirmation was followed by the approval
of three sets of minutes before the mayor
alejandro@luckydognews.com
delivered a financial report bristling with
good news.
Swan Richards December financials were as positive
graphic designer as you would expect from Seabrook.
swan@luckydognews.com Revenues for the month of had come
in $64,000 ahead of projections, while
Lori McGee
expenses were $1,400,000 less than
expected. The surplus was credited to
sales manager Berkeley Electric, along with business
lori@luckydognews.com licenses, and the local option sales tax.
Revenues for the year came in $302,000
Carla Foxworth ahead of expectations, while expenses were
sales executive $77,138 less than anticipated. This brings
the town to $355,704 ahead of last years
carla@luckydognews.com projections. The figure puts SITC back
in the position of making contributions
Staff Writers to the towns emergency fund, which is a
Gregg Bragg matter of particular celebration. The near
traditional gesture was not made last year.
Contributors
Surpluses at the time were transferred to
the general fund and applied to the costs
Lorraine Leary of upgrades on Seabrook Island Parkway
Maraide Sullivan after flooding revealed deficiencies.
Doug Reynolds Council member John Gregg opened
Monique Sporn with a report on the clubs Long Range
Melissa Pluta Parker Planning Committee (LRP). The group
Carol Antman met January 12 for a strategic planning
meeting, and approved the objective
Holly Clayson statement of their plan. He said it was
Patricia Schaefer particularly noteworthy the ability to track
KimberMarie Faircloth progress on their initiatives was being
Pam Steele baked right into their solutions. It was
Martha Zink suggested the LRP send representatives to
other committees in an effort to improve
Marilyn Markel
the linkage and communications between
groups, said Gregg.
The Public Safety Committee (PSC)
met on January 9, and the group is in
the middle of deciding on an alternate
provider for beach patrol services on
Seabrook, said Gregg. Consequently,
he was not prepared to officially request
approval of a refrigerator magnet (e.g.
important/emergency numbers listed)
until a new number for beach patrol can
be incorporated. The PSC is also planning
updates to the Emergency Preparedness
Plan based on lessons learned from
hurricane Matthew. The storm looms
large in developing a general response
plan, which will include such items as
a prioritized list of roads scheduled for
debris removal following an event.
The Disaster Recovery Team held
an exercise on January 5 & 6 which
will be used to augment the Emergency
Preparedness Plan, Gregg added. He
continued his report by saying they
had already filed a request to the state
for Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) dollars intended as
reimbursement for costs related to
Matthew. FEMA visited on January 21
for a tour of the island conducted by
Tommy West of the Seabrook Island
Utility (SIU). The inspection was used to
compare costs to claims made on project
worksheets, which are currently under
agency review. Perhaps because Gregg was
having so much fun, he added the story of
a late breaking claim.
The town met the January 18 deadline
for supplements to this claim, which
included damage to the roof of town hall.
Two shingles along the crown of the roof
had fallen prey to the storm of the year.
The inspections and repairs combined
fell below the threshold for FEMA
consideration but made a larger point. The
stitch in time repairs will add 5 years to
the life of the roof, Gregg claimed. This
is particularly poignant because the tens
of thousands for a new roof is not in the
2017 budget, but the project probably
needs to find its way onto SITCs radar,
he cautioned.
Council member John Turner
reported there was little to report from
the Environmental Committee meeting
he attended. He said wild turkeys have
been reported on the island, and the
group mentioned the possibility of an
Earth Day event tentatively scheduled
for April. He says he tried to talk them
out of it because short notice left little
time to prepare. Turner also said the
Department of Natural Resources would
be on the island next week to inspect the
beach, but would not be counting birds
until February. He concluded his report
by saying that buoys used to mark dog on/
off leash areas have been secured again
like a Maginot Line, before asking to
sit in on the community associations
Communications Committee meetings.
Council member John Wells reported
meeting with Lou Hammond and
Associates, the firm in charge of the
towns web site and advertising budget.
How much to spend and where to spend
it will be decided in meetings scheduled
to occur in the next two weeks. Wells also
reported meeting with Robert George
Engineering Services who has completed
final drawings. However, the early
February completion date for upgrades
to the parkway may be in jeopardy after
what Wells described as a colorful meeting
with the Ways & Means Committee. Five
shovel stopping issues were identified
with easements and encroachments
which must be resolved before any real
work can begin. Wells said the Planning
Committee will be called on to address

Civic Calendar
K iawah Island Town H all
Published by 21 Beachwalker Drive
Lucky Dog Publishing Kiawah Island, SC 29455
of South Carolina, LLC Phone: 768-9166
P.O. Box 837 Town of Kiawah Environmental Town of Seabrook Fax: 768-4764
Sullivans Island, SC 29482 Committee Meeting
Town Council Tue., Feb. 16, 3 p.m. Ways and Means Seabrook Island Town H all
843-886-NEWS
Meeting Kiawah Town Hall Feb. 21, 3:30 p.m. 2001 Seabrook Island Road
Tue., Feb. 7, 2 p.m. Seabrook Town Hall Seabrook Island, SC 29455
Future deadlines: Feb. 8 for Ways and Means
Kiawah Town Hall Phone: 768-9121
submissions for the Committee Town Council
Feb. 17 Issue Fax: 768-9830
Planning Commission Feb., 28, 2 p.m. Feb. 28, 2:30 p.m. Email: lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
Meeting Kiawah Town Hall Seabrook Town Hall
Op-Ed articles and letters to the editor do not Wed., Feb. 8, 3 p.m. Johns Island Council
necessarily reflect the opinion of Kiawah Town Hall Town Council Planning Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric
Lucky Dog News or its writers. Meeting Commission Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Hwy, Johns
Public Safety Tue., March 7, 2 p.m. March 1, 2:30 p.m. Island.
Committee Kiawah Town Hall Seabrook Town Hall Chairman Chris Cannon: 343-5113
The Island Wed., Feb. 15, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Town Hall Charleston County Council
Connection 4045 Bridge View Dr, N. Charleston
958-4700
Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC News Updates
Publishers of Island Eye News, Online at City of Charleston
The Island Connection, facebook.com/ 75 Calhoun St.
islandconnectionnews 724-3745
February 3, 2017
civic
the hurdles. For example and by way of
responsibility, water that flows under the
road is SITC but where is goes afterward
affects others, who have to buy in to the
effort. Wells then proposed approval of
a second task order for Robert George to
determine flood mitigation alternatives,
elevations and ponding issues, along with
some minor word changes to the contract.
The measure passed unanimously.
The mayors report consisted of three
items. His report on the economic study
was fairly brief [see story in this issue of
The Island Connection]. The mayor also
reported meeting with the Charleston
County Councils administrator
and planner about a tract of land off
Seabrook Island road designated R/4.
The designation means four houses can
be built per acre. The mayor told county
representatives if they were going to use
Seabrooks road, they would need an
encroachment permit [from SITC], and
vowed to negotiate the best deal possible.
He also told the county representatives
he had not been entirely happy with the
performance of the sheriffs office during
the hurricane evacuation last fall. He
will meet again next week to discuss the
matter further.
The mayor also reported meeting
with the Johns Island Task Force, a local
group which has assumed the initiative
in determining road priorities on Johns
Island. The mayor cautioned that county
council is not bound to use the 5 percent
sales tax on Johns Island priorities.
However, a meeting with newly elected
County Council Chairman Vic Rawls
showed promise with Rawls suggesting
some of the half cent sales tax could be
used on the shortfall of I-526 (e.g. just
the part to Johns Island ). Rawls assured
Mayor Ciancio the county cannot
Tid e Char t
Date High Tide
Feb 03 12:18am/12:49pm
Feb 04 1:21am/1:53pm
Feb 05 2:29am/3:01pm
Feb 06 3:39am/4:09pm
Feb 07 4:46am/5:13pm
Feb 08 5:47am/6:12pm
Feb 09 6:42am/7:07pm
Feb 10 7:33am/7:57pm
Feb 11 8:20am/8:44pm
Feb 12 9:03am/9:29pm
Feb 13 9:45am/10:12pm
Feb 14 10:25am/10:55pm
Feb 15 11:04am/11:38pm
Feb 16 11:46am
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.
take money away from Johns Island to
complete all of I-526 (e.g. across James
Island).
Tim Morawski, still the newest member
of the utility commission, presented
his second ever status report to town
council. His December report included
the announcement Hawthorne Services
(utility management) was upgrading
software. This month he reported some
indirect costs associated with the upgrade;
bills were now two months behind. SIU
is considering sending two bills at once
to get caught up, but as/of this report,
SIU was still having trouble printing the
invoices, delaying even that solution. The
mayor chimed in to recommend SIU
make use of Tidelines, Seabrooks blog,
and leverage the community associations
email list to get the word out. Morawski
reported the utility itself was operating
normally.
The sole item of legislative business
was ordnance 2017-01, a measure to
rezone 1196 Oyster Catcher and 3234
Middle Dam from a single family
residential designation, to the agricultural
conservation district. The legislation is an
effort to transfer both parcels to the Green
Space Conservancy and ultimately, the
property owners association. The measure
passed unanimously.
Town administrator Randy Pierce
reported getting calls asking when
Shred360 would be back in town.
The shredder of sensitive documents
extraordinaire is scheduled to visit SITC
on March 3, 2017 from 10:00-1:00 p.m.,
and again on October 6, 2017 from 10:00-
1:00 p.m., he said.
There was no miscellaneous business,
no citizens comments, and no further
business, so the meeting was adjourned.
Low Tide
6:40am/7:04pm
7:46am/8:05pm
8:55am/9:09pm
10:03am/10:13pm
11:05am/11:14pm
12:02pm
12:11am/12:55pm
1:03am/1:43pm
1:53am/2:29pm
2:41am/3:12pm
3:27am/3:54pm
4:11am/4:33pm
4:56am/5:12pm
5:41am/5:52pm
Source: saltwatertides.com
4 February 3, 2017 February 3, 2017 5
civic civic civic civic

Kiawah Cares is giving back Exaugural balls vs. Economic study

BY DOUG REYNOLDS
For The Island Connection Inaugural parties illustrates island value
T
his holiday season, the spirit BY GREGG BRAGG BY GREGG BRAGG
of giving was in full force as The Island Connection Staff Writer The Island Connection Staff Writer
the Kiawah Cares Foundation

(KCF) received donations from Kiawah
homeowners totaling over $80,000. These
generous contributions will help KCF
continue its goal of improving the overall
quality of life on the Sea Islands (Johns
and Wadmalaw islands).
The donations came from a mix of
individuals, groups and foundations, and
ranged from small contributions to large
grants. These funds are being used to
support a variety of efforts and programs,
including:
Literacy programs on the Sea
Islands such as the Reading
Partners Program, Communities In
Schools, Begin With Books and the
Barden Angel Literacy Initiative at
Angel Oak Elementary.
supporters took advantage of the mock
photo opportunity with the 45th president
of the United States of America, while
waiting for the official festivities to begin.
All three rooms of the Sandcastles
second floor had been reserved for the
event. Big screen TVs were bracketed each
end, followed by several rows of chairs
arranged stadium style, and behind that
were two clusters of dinner tables.
The celebration was sponsored by the
Kiawah Island Community Association
(KICA) in a tradition which Kay Narmour
Angel Oak Elementary Students. Photo by recalls began in 2008. Narmour runs the
Kiawah Cares Foundation Sandcastle, is its biggest fan, and boasted
of the celebrations cost effectiveness and
some damaged by floods and full throttle appearance. She said they
storms, most of which are home to PHOTOS BY KELLY BRAGG were able to use the same decorations they
America Great Already.
Kelsey and Roy Willey IV, Charleston
area attorneys and political activists (Roy
figured in the Tecklenburg campaign)
organized the Exaugural Ball in an
effort to assist South Carolina charities.
The event was held at the Dewberry
Hotel on Meeting Street, and had its own
measure of success. The couples initial
goal was selling 50 tickets to the event,
but they were able to sell nearly 100 before
the evening was over. The elegant black
tie extravaganza provided the chance
organization dedicated to lobbying
to advance civil and human rights
for GLBT South Carolinians and
their families. Executive Director
Jeff Ayers cited the rejuvenation of
SCs version of NCs bathroom
bill to underscore the need to work
for rights, which if not extended
equally, are unprincipled, said
Ayers.
Dana Beach spoke on behalf of
the Coastal Conservation League,
http://coastalconservationleague.
S
eabrook Mayor Ron Ciancio felt
inspired by an economic impact
study conducted by The Citadel in
2015. The study was conducted by MBA
students of the prestigious university using
the Charleston Symphony Orchestra
(CSO) as its test case. He reached out to
supervising professors Green and Sobel
last summer to gauge their interest in using
Seabrook as a test case for another wave
of the Citadels best and brightest. They
agreed and Kiawah quickly applauded
the idea and asked to join in. Work began
in September and was concluded in
December. Subsequently, the mayor met
with The Island Connection to discuss the
results.
The scope of the study sums to
jobs created on Seabrook, Kiawah,
Freshfields and the marina - the people
in the shops and the construction work,
that we employ more people in our area
than Boeing, and I wanted to test the
idea. The study was completed in a single
semester but probably required more
time. Some of the figures are subjective,
though determined in the same fashion as
a Boston Consulting, and surveys were
conducted in the off-season [fewer visitors
were available] and may have skewed the
numbers downward, said the mayor.
There was no charge for this study
and it isnt [the product of] Boston
Consulting. [However] I think theres
an argument to be made that Boeing is
given too much consideration compared

Repairs to the Wadmalaw Island
Boy Scout camp that sustained
substantial damage during
Hurricane Matthew.
Support to Back Pack Buddies, a
program of the Kiawah Womens
Group, which will fund the program
for a month, providing over 1,000
packs to Sea Island students.
Significant structural repairs to
sub-standard homes, including
the elderly.
We are incredibly grateful for the
generosity of our donors, said KCF Chair
Jimmy Bailey. Without these gifts, many
of these programs and efforts would
simply not have been possible.
For more information on KCF, the
programs it supports, and how to make to
a gift to the foundation, visit kiawahcares.
org or contact KCF at 843-768-9194/
kiawahcares@kica.us.
1
20 people signed up and close to 100
showed up at Kiawahs Sandcastle
on January 20, 2017 to watch the
inauguration of Donald Trump. The
party was slated to begin at 11:30 a.m.,
but attendants monitoring the parking lot
were already on station at 10:30 a.m.
Kiawah residents began arriving well
before the official start of the event, and
were met by a bigger than life cardboard
cutout of the president elect. Jubilant
do for the 4th of July, which also makes
set-up a breeze. Narmour enjoys seeing
a good party at the Sandcastle, and is
proud of its contribution as a multi-use,
community facility. The crowd was
enthusiastic and dignified in its support
of the new president.
However, while Trump supporters on
Kiawah celebrated Make America Great
Again, there was a gala in downtown
Charleston celebrating What Makes
to socialize with some of Charlestons
youngest and brightest, and featured an
open bar, passed hors d'oeuvres, and a
display of auction items which ran the
ballrooms length. Silent auction proceeds
together with ticket sales, netted over
$15,000 for five featured charities.
Pro Bono Legal Services, Inc.
www.charlestonprobono.org was
represented by Executive Director,
Alissa C. Lietzow. Everyone
is entitled to an attorney, but
cant always afford one. WE are
that attorney, she said, cutting
straight to the heart of the
matter. The College of Charleston
and Charleston School of Law
graduate went on to explain how
funds received would help close
the justice gap for people trying
to stabilize their living conditions
or keep their families together.
Steve Skardon Jr. Executive
Director of The Palmetto Project
http://palmettoproject.org/. It
is dedicated to a number of
endeavors including 20 years as
a leading advocate for a more
effective system of health care for
South Carolinians regardless of
their financial circumstances, race.
SC Equality http://www.
scequality.org/ is a 15 year old
determining the economic contribution to Seabrook. The numbers are the
org/. He employed a bit of reverse
made by Seabrook (including Bohicket numbers, emphasized Ciancio. Public
psychology, running directly at
Marina), and Kiawah (including records were searched for tax information
the new administration by arguing
Freshfields) to Charleston County. Because including; licenses, fees, property and
local activity could outweigh
national policy in the days ahead, the breadth of this effort exceeded the income taxes, real estate and construction
if everyone worked together. CSO example, Ciancio pushed for a two data. These are objective numbers. Some
semester long effort. Maybe graduation of the information used, like surveys of
Mackie Krawcheck Moore,
Founder of THRIVE SC http:// got in the way, but only one was spent on residents and visitors is more subjective.
the project, constituting the first of what I spent 10 minutes filling out my
www.thrivesc.life/, anchored the
presentations. Moore founded Ciancio characterized as provisos.
THRIVE SC two short years ago I always heard if you took all the Econ Study continues on page 6
when she became acutely aware of
the lack of housing and services
for survivors of domestic violence.
300 SC women have been
murdered by domestic partners
in the last decade, she said
referencing the Post & Courier
newspapers series, Till Death
Do Us Part. There are only 36
emergency beds available in the
tri-county area of over 700,000.
THATS the reason so many
return to their abusers, they have
nowhere else to go, Moore said in
the now quiet ballroom.
So it seems everyone one had something
to celebrate on inauguration day. It turns
out, two seemingly disparate groups were
both celebrating new beginnings. The
spirit of community survives and common
ground can be discovered in unexpected
places.
6 February 3, 2017
civic
Econ Study continues from page 5
questionnaire but did others that much
time, and did visitors [the few available
in the off season] spend even less, asked
the mayor rhetorically, to make the point
the contribution is probably higher than
documented.
The students used common economic
and employment multipliers to calculate
downstream contributions similar to
studies conducted by Seabrook in 1996
and again by the College of Charleston
in 2004. It works like an example of
compounding interest in reverse; A
gives a dollar to B, B gives .8 to C, C
gives .6 to D and so on. The 20 percent
reduction in each step is used to account
for any uncertainty. However, the amount
exchanged in each step is combined in
Seabrooks favor with impressive results.
The executive summary credits
Seabrook with $338,603,328.00 in
contributions to the regions economy
and the creation of 4831 jobs. We are
.5 percent of the [Charleston County]
population and contribute 2 percent of its
economy and thats just us, said Ciancio.
He estimates Kiawah contributes over
four times that amount for a combined
contribution of over 11 percent of the
countys numbers, and of course the
services we get for those revenues are
nonexistent. Theres a lot going out and
nothing coming back in, he said when
asked about the purpose of the study.
Convincing Johns Island residents and
county/city officials of the need for more
and better roads was the purpose of the
previous studies, but that isnt the only
objective with this most recent exercise.
I met with county officials who said we
love you guys and are doing a lot for you
but we can use studies like this to present
to the county, and see what they can do.
After the hurricane, for example we were
struggling to get security out here and
were begging please pay some attention
to us. And while we were evacuating
there was an accident on Bohicket and
we sat there for an hour. Thank heaven
we were evacuating three days before
the storm. But I dont think Vic Rawl
(recently promoted from member to
Chair of Charleston County Council) is a
fan of the cross island parkway. He needs
some convincing on that issue. Too many
people equate more roads with more
development, but water and sewer are
better ways to control that, but we already
have tens of thousands of unexecuted
building permits in the area, concluded
Ciancio.
The complete study is now available
on the towns website http://www.
townofseabrookisland.org/wp-content/
uploads/2017/01/Letter-and-study.pdf.
Kiawah mayor Craig Weaver told The
Island Connection
I havent shared it [Kiawahs portion]
with the entire council yet. I am not sure
the Kiawah piece is a finished product
and might need to be discussed with the
authors before it is released. Kiawahs
website is available by visiting http://
www.kiawahisland.org/. Instructions will
direct you to the proper page when the
document is available.
arts & events
Artist Colleen Weissmann
brings her abstract art to
Seabrook Island
BY MONIQUE SPORN
For The Island Connection
A
bstract artist and former Seabrook
Island Artists Guild president,
Colleen Weissmann, is the featured
artist for February 2017. Her work will be
on display at the Lake House art gallery
throughout the month.
Colleen studied at the school of New
York Botanical Gardens, where her early
artistic endeavors focused on the field of
interior Plant Scaping or office plant
decor. This experience helped to develop
her eye for shapes, colors, balance and
aesthetics. Contrary to popular opinion,
Colleen says that creating an abstract piece
of art is not just a matter of throwing paint
on canvas, but a melding of experiences, Stormy Thoughts by Colleen Weissmann
creative instincts and innate abilities.
Colleens work can be seen at the
Working from her Seabrook studio, she
151 Fine Art Gallery, 175 Church
creates acrylics using collage and layering
Street , and at the Piccolo Spoleto
techniques. Her emotions dictate the
Festival. To learn more about the Artists
process: laying paint on textured canvas,
Guild, events, workshops, and view
changing shapes and colors, scrubbing out
the work of member artists, visit www.
and repainting until the canvas evolves
seabrookislandartistguild.com
into a harmonious work of art, exquisite
in its composition, balance and color
harmony.
February 3, 2017
daily

Florence Crittenton Programs for South Carolina. Joe Bauer and Jennifer Barker with
Pres. Blasch

Non-profits continues from cover Community Service Health:

Habitat for Humanity
Larry Blasch announced that BIFMC
the winner of this years Angel
Oak Award for extraordinary Water Wellness
volunteerism and for remarkable OLOM
contributions to our local Therapeutic Riding
communities in need is, Exchange Waterproofing
Club member, Shirley Salvo. The Respite Care of Charleston
membership congratulates Shirley
on the well-deserved honor.
Youth in Education:
Laura Stefanelli, Chair of the
Speakers Bureau committee, led Student of the Month
the presentation ceremony to Student of the Year
present this years grant checks Scholarships
to the grant recipients. Each Johns Island Library
recipient group was represented Junior Achievement
in person and by a power-point Angel Oak Academic Growth
slide describing the organization.
Nearly $115,000 was awarded to Angel Oak Character Development
the recipients! The list of recipient Mt. Zion Second Step
organizations is included below. Mt. Zion Library Books
Mt. Zion Camp St. Christopher Trip
2106-2017 Grants Frierson Reflex Math
Community Service Hunger: Barrier Islands Environmental
Backpack Buddies of Seabrook Learning in Classroom
Blessing Basket Trident Tech Scholarships
Bridges Charleston Symphony
Hebron Zion Charleston Coll. School Challenge
Kiawah Womens Foundation Course
Meals on Monday Charleston Coll. School Chickens on
Next Step Campus
Sea Island Cares
Sweetgrass Garden

Child Abuse Prevention:

Dee Norton Lowcountry Center
Low Country Orphan Relief
Florence Crittenten
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8 February 3, 2017
daily

Edisto is back in business

BY MELISSA PLUTA PARKER
For The Island Connection

At Edisto Beach State Park, the day use area is open

White Cap Beach access, Wendie Smith photography
at the beach, which includes restrooms, grills and
picnic tables. The cabins, Live Oak Boat Landing, the
Environmental Learning Center, and walking trails at
the State Park are also open. The RV campground at
the beach remains closed and is not projected to re-open
until Sept 2017. Additional information can be found at
www.SouthCarolinaParks.com/EdistoBeach.
Edisto has a host of restaurants open and serving,
which includes: Ella & Ollies; Whaleys, which also
offers trivia on Wednesdays; Waterfront, with nightly
specials; Pressleys at the Marina; Sea Cow Eatery, which
offers breakfast and lunch through spring, and will add
dinner in the summer; McConkeys Jungle Shack, which
offers lunch and dinner; and Dockside Bar and Grill. The
Coffee Shop on Edisto Beach will reopen in February,

T
he Edisto Island and Edisto Beach communities
have been busy cleaning up since Hurricane
Matthew swept through in October, leaving
behind a trail of damage caused by major winds, water,
and sand. After several weeks of intense recovery, this
hidden coastal treasure of the South Carolina Lowcountry
is back and as alluring as ever.
Starting with the National Scenic Byway, which
boasts beautiful views of the sky, marsh, and beaches,
there is much to explore at this scenic coastal island
destination. From the Edisto Museum to Botany Bay
Plantation to the Edisto Beach State Park, residents and
visitors can soak up the rich history and local markets
or sample the local seafood, play a round of golf, ride a
bicycle and explore the trails, take a dolphin cruise, or
just enjoy the quiet.
serving breakfast, lunch, coffee, and drinks, and will be
hosting trivia on Thursday nights.
The driving tour through Botany Bay Plantation,
which is part of the S.C. Department of Natural
Resources Wildlife Management Area, is open. This self-
guided tour takes you to architectural ruins such as the
Fig Island Shell Rings and outbuildings from Bleak Hall
Plantation. The causeway walk to the beach was damaged
during the hurricane, however, and a re-opening date
has not been set. The Plantation Course at Edisto is also
open.
Magpie & Company, a vintage and handmade
gift store on Edisto Beach, is offering craft classes on
Wednesdays and Saturdays at their new store located at
114 Jungle Road, Suite J, Edisto Beach. More information
is available on the Magpie and Company Facebook page.
Botany Bay driving tour, Wendie Smith photography
The time is ripe for shell seekers and those that enjoy
searching for sharks teeth. The Town of Edisto Beach
had previously planned a beach re-nourishment project
before the hurricane, and that project is currently
underway. Contractors are working in stages to replenish
sand lost due to natural erosion and areas impacted by
Hurricane Matthew. Residents and visitors are allowed
on the beach, but should avoid work zone areas. There are
many areas of the beach open, and the re-nourishment
project is expected to be completed by May 2017.
For more information on the status of the beach and
upcoming events, visit www.edistochamber.com or call
843-869-3867. Updates will also be posted to the Edisto
Chamber of Commerces Facebook page.
February 3, 2017
Artistic adventures to spark up your year
P
icasso said that the purpose of art is to wash away
the dust of daily life from our souls. Who couldnt
use more of that? Here are a few perspective-altering
experiences to get onto your calendar now.
Faerie Kin at LEAF
Boogie Down
Join hands in a circle of positivity at the family-friendly
LEAF Festival in Black Mountain, N.C. Stages are
tucked around the beautiful lake. Camping and cabins
are perched on the mountainside. You can start the day
with soul stirring Gospel music or join an outdoor yoga
class; dance all day to rock, world or Blues bands, sashay
into contra lines and drum on the mountaintop until
the wee hours. Youll come home with legs like spaghetti
from dancing so much; and with a playlist of favorite
bands that you didnt know you love. Next festival is May
11-14 with the enticing theme of Ignite and Inspire. Or
go for the fall foliage October 19-22. www.theleaf.org.
Find more festival ideas see www.musicfestivalwizard.
com
Pasaquan
Envelope Yourself in an Art Environment
A stunning renovation of St. EOMs 7-acre creation,
Pasaquan, recently opened to the public in Buena Vista
Georgia. The colorful compound contains undulating
walls, ceremonial spaces, buildings and shrines that the
artist felt compelled to create over the course of 30 years.
It had almost crumbled to ruin but after a three year
BY CAROL ANTMAN
For The Island Connection
restoration it is now an amazingly odd, inspiring sight
and a national treasure. Open Fridays, Saturdays and
Sundays from 10 to 5, donation $10. https://pasaquan.
columbusstate.edu
Show Little Sister some Love
Dont compare it to Spoleto. Savannah has its own
cache. The venues are charming, the crowds are smaller,
the prices are reasonable and the music is stellar. The
2017 Savannah Music Festivals line up includes a feat
of strength: Stewart Goodyears Sonatathon program
where hell play all 32 of Beethovens piano sonatas in one
day as well as a dazzling array of international musicians
from Pakistan, Quebec, Canary Islands, Haiti, Brazil
that contrast with headliners such as The Avett Brothers,
Sarah Jarosz, the Travelin McCourys, Marcia Ball
and James Cotton, not to mention the broad selection
of classical concerts. March 23 to April 8. www.
savannahmusicfestival.org
Kirkland Smiths portrait of Steven Jobs made from
computer parts
The Town that Art Awoke
Artfields is the best thing since the invention of
grits, said Lake City gift shop owner Sophia Powell
as she wrapped another purchase. This brainchild of
philanthropist Darla Moore has created huge economic
impact and launched dozens of art careers. Hundreds of
artists apply to exhibit their work in galleries, stores and
restaurants. Theyve vying for prizes totaling $100,000.
Patrons flood the town for the free event, transforming
sleepy Lake City into art destination worth the short
drive. April 21 to 29. Free. www.artfieldssc.org
Do it By the Book
Climb into a book by reading them on location. Relax
on a chaise lounge at the King and Prince Hotel on St.
Simons Island, Georgia while reading Eugenia Prices
9
Lighthouse. Have high tea at Hopsewee Plantation
in Georgetown while imagining the carryings-on at the
infamous Sunset Lodge brothel featured in Keeper of the
House. Reread Pat Conroys earliest book The Water is
Wide on Daufuskee Island. In Hot Springs, N.C. you
can warm up from reading Cold Mountain or hike the
Appalachian Trail to rediscover America as Bill Bryson
did. The trail goes right down Main Street. Savannah has
experienced a huge influx of visitors seeking out sights
from Midnight in the Garden and Good and Evil. And
thats just a start...
Make it and Take It
I surfed a creative wave at J.C. Campbell Folk School
and rode it all week. The sprawling, beautiful campus
north of Atlanta is an art retreat of the highest order, full
of hundreds of fun-loving adults. It offers scores of week-
long and shorter classes such as photography, cooking,
gardening, blacksmithing, painting, dancing; something
for everyone. Beginners are common. The food is
wonderful, the rural setting gorgeous and the teachers
couldnt be more encouraging. If you need a creative
re-boot, this is the place. www.folkschool.org
Boney James at Kiawah
Kiawah is Calling
Since 2004, Earl Klugh has been bringing world-
renowned musicians to the five-star Sanctuary Hotel
each November. Theyre so popular that many folks
book for the following year as they leave. So book your
weekend of luxury now. As Sharon Baker, a frequent
patron puts it, Sitting outside along the Atlantic Ocean
under starry skies, listening to world class jazz artists
like Earl Klugh, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler and
Michael McDonald, sipping wine...and enjoying the
sublime luxury of The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, that's
why my husband Kenny Baker and I return again and
again to the Kiawah Jazz Festival each November. The
resort also hosts a yearly Comedy Festival every January.
www.weekendofjazz.com/kiawah
Get out your calendar and plan an artistic escape.
Your soul will thank you for it.

daily
Golden Bear Realty Opens
Kiawah-Seabrook Office
BY HOLLY CLAYSON
For The Island Connection
G
olden Bear Realty is proud to
announce the opening of their
second Charleston-area location.
The launch of the new office at 1900
Seabrook Island Road officially was
celebrated with a festive Grand Opening
party attended by residents, industry
partners and Michael Nicklaus. Golden
Bear Realty, a Nicklaus Family-owned
company, is also located in Mount
Pleasant and boasts over 25 experienced
real estate professionals.
I am extremely excited about our new
Kiawah-Seabrook office location. We look
forward to bringing the residents of this
area a new choice for all their real estate
needs, says President Michael Nicklaus.
We are already seeing strong synergies
between our luxury markets in Palm
Beach, Florida and the Charleston area.
arts & events
Get out of your comfort zone
T R AV E L I M A G E P H O T O G R A P H Y
BY PATRICIA SCHAEFER
For The Island Connection
I
ts easy to create nice images when
youre standing in front of the Eiffel
Tower or standing on top of the highest
mountains in Austria. This program will
show participants plenty of examples of
how to create those images that will force
you to really look, and really see. This
program will take you on a journey of not
only finding creative images, but how to
create these images during your travels.
The good news is that you can apply these
lessons to the lighthouse down the road or
the streets of downtown Charleston.
Photographer Peter Finger grew up in
the shadows of the Catskill Mountains in
Upstate New York. He started painting in
his teens and was influenced by the artists
of the Hudson River School who painted
the wild landscapes of New England in the
early 19th Century. Finger would trace the
steps of these romantic painters and create
his own interpretation of the scenes.
While studying fine art and art education
February 3, 2017
The new Golden Bear Realty office is
conveniently located in the former BB&T
bank building just outside the Bohicket
Marina entrance and has become a
popular stopping point for the residents of
Kiawah and Seabrook, as well as for many
potential buyers. We offer clients the
internationally trusted Nicklaus brand
advantage which encompasses excellence,
integrity and experience in the luxury
real estate market, says Bob Nitkewicz,
Branch Manager. Our agents combined
have well over 150+ years of experience on
the islands.
With offices in South Florida and South
Carolina, Golden Bear Realty retains over
200 real estate professionals. For more
information on Golden Bear Realty and its
services, visit www.GoldenBearRealty.com.
in college, Finger continued his Catskill
Mountain journeys, now armed with a camera.
Photography soon played a critical role in his
development as an artist. His Super-realistic
paintings were based on his photographs
and were quickly sought after by collectors,
corporations and galleries. Upon graduation
he quickly landed an art teaching job.
While still teaching, he worked as a
photojournalist, workshop leader and
artist. Fast forward after years of teaching
and several years at Apple Computer,
he opened his own fine art photography
business. Along with his corporate
photography, he still makes time to
create digital fine art prints and one of a
kind embellished giclee prints. For more
information visit: peterfingerartist.com.
Peter Finger will be the featured speaker
at the Seabrook Island Photography Clubs
February meeting on Thursday, February 16
at 6:30 p.m. at the Lake House. For more
information visit seabrookislandphotoclub.com/
February 3, 2017
daily
Kiawah Island couple bring
celebrated beauty service
franchises to Charleston
Q&A WITH JEREMY AND ELAINE BOLLINGTON
BY KIMBERMARIE FAIRCLOTH
For The Island Connection
T
he outer islands surrounding
the Charleston peninsula are
hidden gems of peaceful beaches
and welcoming communities, which is
why Jeremy and Elaine Bollington, a
local Kiawah couple, decided to bring
a nationally known franchise to the
Lowcountry. In this interview, Jeremy and
Elaine reveal their thoughts on owning
their own business in Mt. Pleasant and
their love for Kiawah.
KF: How did you come up with the
idea of owning a Blo Blow Dry Bar and
Wax the City franchise?
J&E: After leaving the banking
industry, we decided that we wanted to
build and own our own business. We
felt like franchising in the personal care/
beauty industry was the best option for us.
We decided on Blo and Waxing the City
due to their scope for growth and proven
success, as they have over 50+ locations.
We also felt that Blo and Waxing the city
has a great synergy and overlap between
the two brands.
KF: Why Charleston?
J&E: We re-located to Charleston
in April 2016. We fell in love with the
city years ago and were in the process of
building a home on Kiawah. As we made
the move, we also started the search for
appropriate businesses. We believe both
businesses will do tremendously well in
Mount Pleasant, with opportunities for
growth beyond that across the Greater
Charleston Area.
KF: What is the best aspect of
introducing this business to Kiawah and
the Charleston area?
J&E: Its exciting to bring both
businesses to the Lowcountry, and its
already proved to be a terrific way to get
connected in the broader community.
In particular, given the location (in the
Whole Foods plaza in Mount Pleasant),
we have gotten to know many people
11
daily
The Joy of Giving
BY PAM STEELE
For The Island Connection
T
he joy of your giving to the holiday
fund for the Mt. Zion Elementary
School this year was reflected in
the smiles of more than 87 children in
27 families. We can only imagine their
expressions of surprise and squeals of joy
as they each discovered presents wrapped
in the vibrant Mount Pleasant business especially for them.
community. A simple thank you to you, our Island
KF: Has Kiawah, or Charleston in friends, just does not seem adequate, but
general, influenced any of your goals perhaps these words from some of the
or choices in being business owners or children themselves will help convey
running your businesses? the special gratitude we feel and most
J&E: Absolutely. We were attracted especially what your generous donations
in particular by the growth taking place meant for them.
in [the] Charleston area as a whole. We
Thank you for this PS3. I love it! It is
believe the business climate in Charleston my best present ever.
provides a strong platform for growth and
Thank you for my cow boys jackit.
will lend to additional opportunities in
the future. Thank you for every single Christmas
gift and I really appreciate everything.
KF: What is advice you would Thank you for the toys and clothes. We
give to anyone about work, life and/or Mt. Zion CHristmas Sorting
appreciate it.
relationships that has also had an impact
in both of your day-to-day lives? As you can see from this picture, not helping to make so many dreams come
only were our hearts overflowing with true.
J: Dont be afraid to make a change. gratitude, the room we use to carefully
When I left the banking industrythe Sincerely,
select each childs special gifts was also The Mt. Zion Holiday Fund
easy option in many ways would have overflowing with toys, books and clothes
been to look for another banking position, Committee
made possible only through you and your
but I knew it was time for a change, and joy of giving to our fund. Thank you for
time to find a new and different challenge.
This change of location and direction has
also meant that for the first time Elaine
and I are working together in a business -
which is fun and quite different!
KF: Whats your favorite aspect about
Kiawah? How does your franchise fit into
this characteristic of the community that
you love?
J&E: We love the tranquility - it has
and will always be a great escape. We felt
that Mount Pleasant was a better fit for
these businesses and Kiawah is our place
to recharge and build the energy to drive
the businesses forward with great passion.
KF: What is your biggest goal for
yourselves and the community with the
opening of these locations?
J&E: We are bringing two new brands
to the Lowcountry - we hope that they will
quickly become recognized as providers of
great customer experience and service and
that this will underpin expansion beyond
the initial locations.
Under Contract
 February 3
ONGOING
February Special
Artist-of-the-Month
Colleen Weissman will exhibit several of
her abstract paintings through the month
of February at the Lake House Gallery,
Seabrook Island.
Mondays
What: Seabrook Island Bridge Group
Where: The Lake House
When: 9 a.m.
More Info: The Monday Bridge Group
needs new players. For more information,
please contact Ilse Calcagno at
843.768.0317.
Tuesdays
What: Bookmobile
Where: Freshfields Village
When: The first Tuesday of every month
from 10 - 11:30 a.m.
More Info: The Charleston County
Bookmobile will be parked in the lot
behind Heges and Java Java.
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 days
intention, set up yourself for success and be
ready to shine.
What: Kids Art Classes, Acrylic on
Canvas
Where: 3280 Loft at Bohicket Marina,
1897 Andell Bluff Way, Seabrook Island
When: 10-11 a.m.
More Info: ages 3-12, $15, 843.494.8784,
3280loft.com
Fridays
What: Adult art classes, multimedia
Where: 3280 Loft at Bohicket Marina,
1897 Andell Bluff Way, Seabrook Island
When: 10 a.m. - noon
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3
What: Annual SINHG Soup Supper
Where: the Atlantic Room at the Island
House
When: 5:30 p.m.
More Info: The Soup Supper will feature
great soups, chili, breads and desserts as
well as the traditional Soup Throwdown
where a prize of incalculable value will be
awarded to the chef with the best soup.
Most importantly, it is an evening of fun
and camaraderie. To reserve a table visit:
sinhg.org.
What: Liquid Pleasure Supershow
When: 7:30 p.m.
Where: East Beach Conference Center,
One Sanctuary Beach Drive, Kiawah
Island
More Info: Get down and boogie with us
on Kiawah Island while Liquid Pleasure
ignites the night with a variety of tunes
Island Connection Calendar
from Aretha Franklin and B.B. King to What: Superbowl Gameday Party at
todays most popular hits. Tickets will be FortyEight
available to the public online January 20. When: 6 p.m.
For more information, visit: kiawahisland. Where: FortyEightA Wine Bar; 547
org Freshfields Drive
More Info: All you can eat game day food
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4 for $20++! No reservations necessary!
What: Charleston Music Club Summer What: Yin Yoga
Scholarship Auditions When: 5-6:15 p.m.
When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Move IT Office
Where: St. Philips Church Ministries More Info: Balance your job, gym
Hall, corner of Church and Queen st. workouts, and even other styles of yoga
More Info: Application deadline is January practice with yin yoga. Yin promotes
28. For more information, rules, and an
stress release and improves connective and
application form:charlestonmusicclub.org fascia tissue by holding poses for up to 4
minutes. Open to all fitness levels.$12/$10
What: Growing Camellias Workshop CCR Discount/Free Move IT Pass Holder.
When:1 p.m. Register for six or more classes for a
Where: Middleton Place Garden Market
discount. Coupon code: FITMULTI. Age:
and Nursery
16 & up.
More Info: Master Gardener and
Middleton Place VP of Horticulture,
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 6
Sidney Frazier, will lead a workshop
discussing growing camellias from What: Judy Carmichaels Jazz
propagation. Workshop is free to the Inspired
public, reservation are required. Call When: February 6-8, 7:30 p.m.
843.556.6020 to reserve. Where: East Beach Conference Center,
Seabrook
What: Johns Island Farmers Market More Info: This event is run by the Kiawah
When: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Arts Council. For more information, visit:
Where: 2024 Academy Drive, Johns Island seabrookislandblog.com
More Info: Operates year round, every
Saturday! WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8
What: College Days at the Climbing
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5
Wall
When: 12-5 p.m.
Where: James Island Country Park
More Info: Climbing is a fun way to get
into shape and to meet new people. It is
also a great social activity. Students with
a current ID will receive a free harness
and shoe rental with the regular price of
admission. Registration is not required.
Fee: $12.
What: Distinguished Visiting Artist
Talk: Thomas Schomberg
When: 6 p.m.
Where: The Gibbes Museum of Art, 35
Meeting St.
More Info: $20 for members, $30 dollars
for non-members and $10 for students/
faculty (must present valid student ID or
faculty ID at event).
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9
What: SINHG Evening Program
South Carolina History through Art
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Seabrook Island Lake House
More Info: All Seabrook Island residents
and guests are welcome. There is a $5
donation for non SINHG members.
Refreshments - 7:00 p.m. Program 7:30
p.m. Information about future programs
and SINHG membership can be found at
the SINHG web site, sinhg.org.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10
What: Art Film--Picasso & Barque Go
To The Movies
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Sandcastle, 23 Beachwalker Drive,
Kiawah Island
More Info: Produced by Martin Scorsese
and Robert Greenhut and directed by
Arne Glimcher, Picasso and Braque
go to the Movies is a cinematic tour
through the effects of the technological
revolution, specifically the invention of
aviation, the creation of cinema and their
interdependent influence on artists Pablo
Picasso and Georges Braque.
What: SC Ballet Presents: Beauty & The
Beast
Where: Sottile Theatre, 44 George St.
When: 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11-12
What: A Valentine Chocolate walk
through Americas oldest garden
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Magnolia gardens
More Info: Guests can indulge in
chocolates from Belgium, Switzerland,
Mexico and other nations amid Magnolias
award-winning ancient camellia collection
along the Ashley River.
String musicians will serenade couples
as they stroll between chocolate stations
that will feature iconic treats. Free with
garden admission. Children under six are
free. There will be a $5 charge to annual
members for this event.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12
What: 5th Annual Oyster Roast & Chili
Cook-Off
When: 2-5 p.m.
Where: Lowndes Grove
More Info: A family-friendly afternoon
of all you can eat oysters, amazing chili
cook-off, live music and open bar with beer
and wine. We will also have hotdogs and
other kid-friendly food. Bring the whole
family and support Florence Crittenton
Programs mission to help young women in
need become self-sufficient and successful!
Visit our website for more details:
florencecrittentonsc.org
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14
What: SC History Series: First Steps
Toward Civil Rights Equality in
Charleston, 1866-1870
When: 10:15 a.m.
Where: Charleston County Public Library
More Info: The bold Federal laws enacted
after the Civil War to extend full civil
rights to all in South Carolina largely
failed, and by 1890 segregation was the
status quo in the Palmetto State. Despite
this fact, there were a handful of local
civil rights triumphs in the early years
of Reconstruction that deserve to be
remembered. Join CCPLs historian, Dr.
Nic Butler, for the stories of a few forgotten
Charlestonians who tested the waters in
the early days of the struggle for Civil
Rights.
February 16
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16
What: College Admission Assistance
When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Charleston County Public Library
Adults interested in pursuing a GED,
certificate, diploma, associate degree or
bachelors degree at any U.S. college are
encouraged to attend an information
session with representatives from the
Educational Opportunity Center.
Attendees will learn about college
admission, financial aid and career
counseling assistance offered by the EOC
(ages 19 and older).
What: Travel Image Photography Get
Out of Your Comfort Zone
When: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Lake House, Seabrook Island
More Info: This program will focus on travel
photography and how the create the most
exciting images from your travels. Its easy
to create nice images when youre standing
in front of the Eiffel Tower or standing on
top of the highest mountains in Austria.
What this program will show with plenty of
examples is how to create those images that
will force you to really look, to really see.
This program will take you on a journey of
not only finding creative images, but how to
create these images during your travels. The
good news is that you can apply these lessons
to the lighthouse down the road or the streets
of downtown Charleston. Free to members,
$10 for guests. For a gate pass, please email
psphotos13@gmail.com by Feb. 15, 2017
14
gardening
The Kiawah Island
Garden Club concludes
2016 and launches 2017
BY MARTHA ZINK
For The Island Connection
K
iawah residents and visitors
were welcomed to the island
in December by wonderful
arrangements of greens and ribbons on
signs around the island, all of which were
made by Kiawah Island Garden Club
members. Also in December, the Club
took a walking tour of various churches
in downtown Charleston, to see the
beautiful way the churches were adorned
for Christmas, followed by a luncheon.
They look forward to joining the Garden
Club of Charleston on April 7-8 for the
82nd tour of 5 different homes and
gardens each day, and seeing spectacular
flower arrangements in each home.
The January meeting of the Garden
Club began with an informative talk
by Leila Gable, director of KICAs
landscaping department. Each year
KICA puts money in their budget for
outside contractors in case cleanup is
needed after a natural disaster. This year
is the first time the contracts have been
enacted. There are established parameters
to check before people are allowed back
on the island. The Town, the resort and
KICA together make the assessment.
The roads on the island were covered by
several feet of marsh and seagrass, as well
as innumerable trees and limbs. Eighty
outside contractors worked from the front
and back of the island towards the center.
Debris piles were made by the KICA crew
and picked up by the town. Amazingly
these crews were on the island by Sunday
and the next day the island was opened for
residents to return.
Dr. Linda Geronilla, PhD, was the
featured speaker of the January meeting
and spoke to the Club about Permaculture,
a sustainable agriculture design philosophy
based on simulating patterns in nature. In
1960 Bill Mollison and David Holmgren
noted modern industrial-agricultural
methods were removing topsoil, reducing
February 3, 2017
biodiversity, poisoning the land and water
and were dependent on non-renewable
resources. They noted also that permanent
environments, including oceans, beaches,
marshes, mountains, forests and deserts,
will heal themselves if left alone. This
teaches us sustainability and permaculture
encourages integration of natural
elements: weeds are needed as they are
nitrogen fixers in the soil. Provision can
be made for people to access necessary
resources while keeping the earth healthy,
and returning waste to renourish the
earth. Planting guilds of plants which
cooperate with each other has been
practiced for centuries, such as the three
sisters of corn, beans and squash.
Dr. Geronilla also addressed the mole
problem many people have. Moles do
not intentionally eat plants, just larvae,
spiders, worms, etc., but they disturb roots
and leave holes. Voles are the ones who
eat plants such as grass, flower roots, seeds
and bulbs. Moles live far underground,
the tunnels we see are only used once
to reach feeding grounds. Commercial
products do not work (with the exception
of one inexpensive trap, the Out of Sight
Mole Trap available at Home Depot.) The
best defense against moles are plants that
repel or kill them: daffodils, squill (scilla
siberica), fritillariaimperialis, the Allium
genus of vegetable bulbs such as garlic
and onion but also flowering ornamental
forms of Allium, Mexican marigold
and castor bean plant (poisonous, use
cautiously). Natural mole predators are
snakes, skunks, foxes, weasels, hawks,
barn owls and of course domestic cats and
dogs.
The next Kiawah Island Garden Club
meeting will be at the Sandcastle February
13. Nancy Hart of Church Creek Nursery
will give a hands-on demonstration. The
meeting is at 10 a.m., preceded by coffee
and refreshments at 9:30 a.m. Join us!
February 3, 2017 15
seasons of the south volunteer spotlight

Satisfy your hunger Eliana Ibanez-Burnham

with warm winter waffles BY JENNIFER MESHANKO
For The Island Connection

BY MARILYN MARKEL

O
For The Island Connection ur Lady of Mercy Community
Outreach volunteer, Eliana
Ibanez-Burnham, shares her

W
arm waffles in the middle of expertise in social work to help those in
winter are so satisfying on a need on James, Johns and Wadmalaw
lazy weekend day. A pinch of Islands. Eliana was born and lived most of
cornmeal gives these fluffy waffles a little her life in the Washington, D.C. area. Her
bite. For breakfast or brunch serve with parents were from Chile, and her family
warmed syrup, it's intensely satisfying, travelled there every two years during her
or try the soft sorghum butter with fried childhood. Eliana attended the University
chicken. Add a little sparkling wine or
of Maryland, where she obtained degrees
champagne for a memorable chicken and in art history and early childhood
waffle experience! education. She taught for five years at
Cornmeal Waffles various levels ranging from preschool to
makes 4 waffles first grade. She worked as a substitute
teacher, tutor and as the manager of a
Ingredients:
family daycare. Eliana entered the field
4 Tbsp butter
of social work when she worked for
1 egg Catholic University on an Early Head
cup buttermilk Start Research Project assisting Latin
1 cup flour American families. The university staff
2 Tbsp cornmeal was so impressed with Elianas work, they
2 tsp baking powder helped pay for a portion of her Masters
degree in Social Work.
1 tsp baking soda
1 Tbsp sugar Eliana and her husband moved to
Charleston two and a half years ago,
tsp salt after her husband retired. She started
working full-time with Charleston
Instructions: Dorchester Mental Health Centers
Beat butter with a hand mixer mobile crisis unit. After a year, Eliana
until light and fluffy. Add remaining decided to work part-time, which gave her
ingredients and mix until just combined. more time to volunteer. She found Our
Cook in a waffle iron. Lady of Mercy Community Outreachs
Eliana Ibanez-Burnham
website and completed the online
volunteer application. Eliana enjoys
volunteering at OLMCO, because of the
different opportunities available. She has
volunteered with several programs at the
Johns Island site that include childcare,
summer camp, direct services, and the
Christmas toy distribution. Eliana is able
to make a positive change in peoples lives
by connecting with them, gaining their
trust and listening to what their needs are.
Eliana encourages people to volunteer.
There are so many opportunities, she
says. New things pop up all the time!
Volunteer Spotlight is a column in the
Island Connection highlighting members of
the community who give their time to help
others. If you know of a volunteer who deserves
the spotlight email amy@luckydognews.
com. If you d like to get involved with Our
Lady of Mercy Community Outreach email
jennifer. meshanko@olmoutreach.org.