Since May 2007
PRESORT STANDARD
Volume 11 Issue 17
Expert trainer moves to Kiawah
P R I VAT E S TA B L E S O F F E R S B O A R D I N G , L E S S O N S
BY MEREDITH POSTON
Staff Writer
P
ulling up to the main entrance gates, the majestically
picturesque Kiawah River Stables is a sight to behold.
Located on Johns Island at 3561 Legareville Road, gravel
trails wind through wide, well-manicured fields that are spotted
with live oaks and lush vegetation. Walking up to the main stable
house I was greeted by several friendly farm dogs and Emily Hertz
Chadwell, Head Trainer and Manager of the Stables. Donning
tan jodhpurs and a wide-brimmed riding helmet, Chadwell
looked the epitome of a professional Equestrian; her incredible
experience and expertise are what make her a riding aficionado
ideal for manning Charlestons newest premier riding stables.
Kiawah River Stables was purchased in June of 2016 by Paul
Mashni, Chief Executive Officer of the PEM Real Estate Group,
LLC., located out of Arizona. A lover of Kiawah Island and the
Local Author on USTA
Page 4
FREE November 24, 2017
PHOTOS BY MEREDITH POSTON
surrounding islands, Mashni saw the potential for revitalizing
the farm and turning it into a place that locals and visitors alike
could enjoy.
While the property has a rich agricultural history dating
back many years, the farm as it is today was established in 2016.
It is a custom combination of multiple parcels of land, all with
historical significance to the area, and it is our goal to continue
that rich culture with a focus on creating a tranquil, relaxing,
family-friendly environment, remarks Mashni.
Boarding and competitive training are the primary services
offered by the facility, with basic lessons and drop-ins for
vacationers interested in a leisurely ride also offered as an option.
Kiawah Trainer continues on page 7
Veterans Day Golf Holiday Festival of Lights
Page 5
US POSTAGE PAID
CHARLESTON SC
POSTAL PATRON
PERMIT NO 437
Indictment
issued to
former TOKI
employees
ACCUSED COULD
FA C E 2 0 Y E A R S
IMPRISONMENT
BY GREGG BRAGG
Senior Staff Writer
T
he announcement from the United
States Attorneys Office on Tuesday
Nov. 14 was straightforward and
simple. Former Town of Kiawah Officials
Indicted for Wire Fraud, read the banner,
followed by, Tumiko Rucker, age 42, of
Johns Island, S.C., and Harrison Kenneth
Gunnells, age 59, of Mount Pleasant, S.C.,
were charged in a 1-count Indictment with
Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, a
violation of Title 18, United States Code,
Sections 1349 and 1344. The maximum
penalty that Rucker and Gunnells could
receive is 20 years imprisonment and a
maximum fine of $250,000. The case was
investigated by agents of the Federal Bureau
of Investigation and is assigned to Assistant
United States Attorney Rhett DeHart of
the Charleston office for prosecution.
The statement was greeted with mixed
feelings by Kiawah residents. One neighbor
quoted John Bannister Gibson (1780-
1853); [the] Millstones of Justice turn
exceedingly slow, but grind exceedingly
fine, suggesting he had been more
concerned by other topics than waiting for
the clock to strike midnight on the case.
Others have actively pursued information
on the case during town council meetings
from the Town of Kiawah Island which bore
little fruit. TOKI representatives insisted
they would not let the case fall through the
cracks and that it was near completion as
recently as April of this year, but had no
details to share. The announcement from
the USAO begs a review of history.
Indictment continues on page 3
Page 11
2 November 24, 2017
civic

Beachfront scraping underway,

Lynn Pierotti
numerous ordinances approved
publisher
lynn@luckydognews.com
T O K I I N A F AV O R A B L E M O O D AT T H E N O V. 7 M E E T I N G

Katy Calloway BY KATY CALLOWAY

katy@luckydognews.com Managing Editor
managing editor

T
he November meeting of
Jennifer Tuohy the Kiawah Town Council
got underway without delay.
jennifer@luckydognews.com
Councilmember John Koach was
contributing editor pronounced absent and on vacation.
The minutes from the previous months
Alejandro Ferreyros meeting were approved unanimously
senior graphic designer and Mayor Weaver began with his
alejandro@luckydognews.com comments. He updated the audience on
the beach scraping that is going on as a
result of tropical storm Irma. The project
Lori McGee is happening in two phases: the first
sales manager phase was under an emergency permit
lori@luckydognews.com that allowed the Town to immediately
address damage that impacted the Ocean
course, areas from the practice tee down
Carla Foxworth
to the Beach Club. The second part of
sales executive that project addressed the area of beach
carla@luckydognews.com along Turtle Point Golf Course. Phase
one has been completed and appears to
Senior Staff Writer have come in under budget. The mayor
Gregg Bragg expressed his satisfaction with the project
thus far, stating, I think its been able to
do in a few weeks what would have taken
Staff Writer one or two or three years for us to be
Meredith Poston able to do in terms of natural accretion.
Phase two has yet to begin and required
Contributors a special permit request to scrape the
beach. The public comment period for
Alan Armstrong
the special request closed on Nov.7 and
Frasier Block no comments had been made. Phase two
Sarah Reynolds addresses mostly private property owners
Penny Lee along Eugenia Ave. up through Mariners
Carol Antman Watch. Phase two is expected to proceed
Jennifer Meshanko without delay.
Dimi Matouchez
Mayor Weaver then addressed the
OCRM jurisdictional lines that has
homeowners along the beach talking.
The Mayor informed the audience that a
revised timeline has been issued and that
the public comment period for redefining
the baseline and setback line has been
extended until April of 2018 and the
implementation period will also be
moved back. The Town has been working
with Coastal Science and Engineering to
understand the changes that are being
presented and how it will impact Kiawah
Island. A draft report has been produced
and as soon as it is finalized Weaver
will share it with Council and property
owners that may be impacted by the
changes. The proposed lines will have a
significant impact on much of Kiawah,
moving building requirements landward.
The first item of new business on the
days agenda was a recommendation to
amend the text of Chapter 12 Land Use
Planning and Zoning to allow a rezoning
of a property located at 1 Kiawah
Beach Dr. from commercial to RST 2
resort zoning district. A representative
explained the property is approx. 1.19
acres in the West beach area. The
particular straw market parcel was left out
of a group of parcels that were rezoned at
the beginning of the summer. The future
land use for the area is designated resort.
The Planning Commission previously
approved the change by a unanimous
vote. Mayor Weaver explained to Council
that this particular parcel was part of a
development agreement that was reached
in 2010 with Kiawah Island Resort,
but the paperwork for the rezoning of
the parcel had never been completed.
Approving this request was essentially
tying up loose ends. The first reading
passed unanimously.
Up for second reading was the beach
hole ordinance that prohibits metal
shovels on the beach. Councilmember
Mezzanotte asked that the rental agencies
be informed so that visitors will know
about the new rule. The new ordinance
passed unanimously.
Also approved for second reading
were ordinances 2017-19 regarding yard
debris removal, 2017-21 regarding beach
walkover repair, and 2017-09 regarding
short-term rental regulations.
Town Treasurer, Dorota Szubert,
took to the podium to explain resolution
2017-3 to open an investment account
with the South Carolina Investment
Pool. She remarked that the Towns
investments instruments are limited. The
SC Investment Pool currently only offers
short-term investment options but they
are working on a long-term portfolio
that should be available for next quarter.
Obviously we have a desire and intent
to remain prudent and conservative
in our investment approach, but at
the same time, over the last few years
with low interest rates, its almost like
putting your money under the mattress,
remarked Mayor Weaver, obviously in
favor of the more aggressive approach.
Councilmember John Wilson added, the
Sate of South Carolinas requirements
as to what a town may invest in are so
restrictive that this pool, at the moment,
is about as good as it gets. The resolution
passed unanimously.
The next item was a staff proposal that
the Town adopt a policy with respect to
participating in the cost of healthcare for
retired employees. Mayor Weaver took
this item off of the days agenda and plans
to bring it back for review in December.
The next recommendation also
addressed employee healthcare. The
State has redefined rates for employees
and minimums that Towns need to
contribute to employee coverage. The
staff recommendation is to approve
for 2018 a supplement to the state
required contribution of $133 a month

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 Arts Council Meeting Town of Seabrook Fax: 768-4764
Sullivans Island, SC 29482 December 7, 2 p.m.
Ways and Means Kiawah Town Hall Town Council Seabrook Island Town H all
843-886-NEWS
Committee Meeting 2001 Seabrook Island Road
November 28, 2 p.m. Public Safety November 28, 2:30 p.m. Seabrook Island, SC 29455
Future submission deadline: Committee
Kiawah Town Hall Seabrook Town Hall Phone: 768-9121
November 29 for the December 13, 2 p.m.
December 8 Issue Fax: 768-9830
Town Council Kiawah Town Hall Planning Email: lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
Meeting Commission Meeting
Op-Ed articles and letters to the editor do not December 5, 2 p.m. Ways and Means December 6, 2:30 p.m. Johns Island Council
necessarily reflect the opinion of Kiawah Town Hall Committee Seabrook Town Hall Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric
Lucky Dog News or its writers. December 19, 2 p.m. Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Hwy, Johns
Planning Commission Kiawah Town Hall Ways and Means Island.
Meeting Committee Chairman Chris Cannon: 343-5113
The Island December 6, 3 p.m.
Kiawah Town Hall
December 12, 2:30 p.m.
Seabrook 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
November 24, 2017
civic
for employees participating in the state
healthcare program. Councilmember
Chris Widuch opposed the motion,
partly because he doesnt approve
subsidies. He was outnumbered by a 3-1
vote and the motion passed.
Dorota Szubert updated Council on
the Town financials. The balance had
decreased by about $600,000 from June
30. Szubert stated that everything looks
reasonable as far as the revenues and
expenditures also were in line with the
budget spending.
Committee Reports began with
Councilmember Chris reporting from
the Public Safety Committee that St.
Johns Fire District Commission is still
accepting applications up until Dec. 4
for anyone interested in serving on the
Commission.
Councilmember Wilson reported that
he attended the Berkeley Charleston
Dorchester Council of Governments
meeting. A consultant has been hired to
address a bike and walking path plan for
the three counties. 526 is still on hold,
but local groups continue to look for
ways to fund the project.
Councilmember Mezzanotte reported
that KICA is exploring plans to address
drainage issues. Next month Becky
Dennis, manager of the Kiawah Island
Utility, will attend the Sea Level Rise
committee meeting to discuss water
and sewage systems and what they have
planned. The Arts Council held two
successful events since their last meeting
Tid e Char t
Date High Tide
Nov 24 12:51am/1:17pm
Nov 25 1:56am/2:20pm
Nov 26 3:01am/3:20pm
Nov 27 4:00am/4:15pm
Nov 28 4:55am/5:06pm
Nov 29 5:44am/5:53pm
Nov 30 6:30am/6:36pm
Dec 1 7:12am/7:17pm
Dec 2 7:52am/7:57pm
Dec 3 8:30am/8:35pm
Dec 4 9:07am/9:13pm
Dec 5 9:44am/9:50pm
Dec 6 10:21am/10:29pm
Dec 7 11:00am/11:10pm
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.
and is preparing for the Charleston
Symphony Orchestra event, which drew
about 480 people last year. It takes place
the last Saturday in December.
Citizens comments wrapped up the
meeting. The Town was asked if letters
had gone out to boardwalk owners
regarding repair of boardwalks. Letters
in fact were sent two weeks ago. The
ordinance was finally approved today,
(Nov. 7). Two comments were made
regarding communications, asking that
the Town seek input from the public
regarding beachfront jurisdictional lines
to be included with the CSE report. The
second comment requested that known
traffic delays be announced in advance of
occurrence so that residents needing to
get off the island have plenty of notice.
Comments were also made regarding
safety of the new municipal center and
the process for changing policies in the
employee handbook. An emergency
preparedness session was requested
for residents that may not have be
present during hurricane season. The
final question asked in reference to the
beachfront jurisdictional lines, if the
Town of Kiawah has a process to follow
federal or state legislation that affects
property owners. Mayor Weaver replied,
We certainly do.
With no further business, the meeting
was adjourned. The next meeting of the
Kiawah Island Town Council takes place
Dec. 5 at 2 p.m.
Low Tide
6:45am/7:34pm
7:50am/8:35pm
8:55am/9:33pm
9:56am/10:27pm
10:53am/11:15pm
11:45am
12:00am/12:32pm
12:42am/1:17pm
1:22am/1:59pm
1:59am/2:39pm
2:35am/3:18pm
3:10am/3:56pm
3:45am/4:35pm
4:23am/5:15pm
Source: saltwatertides.com
civic
Indictment continues from cover
The trouble began with rumors, as it so
often does in a small town. The murmurs
grew into questions asked at public
meetings of TOKI in 2014 regarding the
amount of time Rucker was spending
at Sea Island Comprehensive Health
Care, as previously reported. Documents
available through the Citizen Audit website
confirmed Rucker received compensation
for 40 hrs/week with the organization
plus another 10 hrs/week with Sea Island
Community Development fund among
others as early as 2012, while receiving
more in compensation from TOKI than
South Carolina pays its governor.
Spring of 2015 witnessed the mayor
announcing that Ruckers contract with
the town would not be renewed when
it expired in September of that year. It
was subsequently announced Rucker
would be taking a leave of absence,
presumably to exhaust accrued vacation
time. Consequently, TOKI hired Dixon,
Hughes, and Goodman to conduct a
forensic audit of the towns books for
the previous two years, and both Rucker
and Gunnells resigned shortly after. The
accounting firm added an additional two
years to its search based on what they found
in the first two. The audit stopped with the
books from 2011 because materials beyond
that point were deemed too fragmented for
examination.
Results of the forensic audit alleged
Rucker and Gunnells had conspired to
glean over $200,000 from TOKI beyond
their approved salaries, and had taken
steps to cover their tracks. Further, it
3
was discovered Rucker paid four TOKI
employees, (Jim Jordan, Aaron Givens,
Rusty Lameo and Petra Reynolds) nearly
$100,000 beyond their salaries over the
same period. The four staff members
said they were unaware of the extra pay,
and signed agreements to repay the town
avoiding further scrutiny. The rest of the
evidence was turned over in July of 2015
to members of law enforcement including;
Assistant United States Attorney Rhett
DeHart, Special agent Bob Derr of the
Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Joe
Albayalde of the South Carolina Law
Enforcement Division.
Two years and four months later, the
evidence provided yielded the criminal
indictments noted above. Tim Kulp
(Gunnells attorney) and Lauren Williams
(Ruckers attorney) did not reply to emailed
requests for comments last week after the
indictments were handed down.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhett DeHart
confirmed the penalties associated with the
alleged crimes would be applied separately to
each of the two individuals in a phone call
with The Island Connection, but still doesnt
feel he is at liberty to discuss the case. He
declined to say what penalties he would be
seeking in the case or to explain why wire
fraud was what they ended up charging.
Asking what took so long was
unavoidable, but DeHart didnt have time
to talk about that one. I cant answer that.
I need to run if you got some questions Im
happy to answer them but I dont want
to get into a discussion, whats your next
question.
As of this writing a court date is not
available.
4 November 24, 2017
daily
Seabrook author
writes USTA history
BOOK CHRONICLES
135 YEARS OF TENNIS
BY GREGG BRAGG
Senior Staff Writer
Warren F. Kimball. Photo courtesy USTA
Archives
T
he United States Tennis Association
(USTA): Raising the Game is due
out December 1, and isnt Seabrook
resident Warren F. Kimballs first book.
The retired Navy captain has written a
number of volumes and countless papers
centered on WWII, all while teaching
history at institutions including; the U.S.
Naval Academy, the University of Georgia,
and for 32 years at Rutgers University.
Kimball also played a lot of tennis.
I started playing around 1970. My son
ended up getting an athletic grant from the
University of Virginia, and my late wife,
Jackie, worked for the USTA. I was an
active volunteer, and eventually ended up
on the USTA Board of Directors for four
years, said Kimball. A USTA president
was familiar with his aptitude for writing
and asked if he would be interested, and
his response is now apparent.
The United States Tennis Association:
Raising the Game is published by the
University of Nebraska Press. It will be
available through Amazon and local book
stores. Asked if any book signings have
been scheduled, Kimball chuckled at any
notoriety generated by a book he describes
as very technical, but thinks he could
make himself available.
The paraphrased description offered
by UNP says it is; an in-depth look at
the history of the USTA and how the
organization cultivated and organized
tennis over the past 135 years. What started
as a group of elite white men from country
clubs in the Northeast, morphed into the
largest tennis association in the world, with
women in top leadership positions and
annual revenue well over $300 million.
The book sheds light on some little
known/overlooked accomplishments
like; establishing the Open Era in tennis
in 1968 (when professionals began
competing with amateurs in Grand Slam
events), for expanding the game in the
United States during the 1970s tennis
boom, and for establishing the U.S. Open
November 24, 2017 5
daily
Annual golf outing honors veterans
EVENT RAISES MONEY FOR LOCAL CAUSES
BY ALAN ARMSTRONG
For The Island Connection
as one of the most prestigious and largest-
attended sporting events in the world.
The USTA is primarily run by volunteers,
but adds a professional staff to manage and
govern tennis at the local level across the
United States. It also owns the U.S. Open.
The story of
how tennis is
managed by
the nations
Left: Presentation of the charitable check by Brian Thelan and Alan Armstrong to
largest cadre representatives of the Charleston VA Hospital and Fisher House.
of volunteers in Right: The Fisher Flight winning team; Jack Miller, Aubry Corley, Russ Cooley and
any sport is one Cesare Mastroianni. PHOTOS PROVIDED
of sports best
O
n Monday, Nov. 6, Lowcountry golfers teed up and the Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club. The Seabrook in Iraq or Afghanistan. Also honored was WWII veteran
in the 6th Annual Seabrook Island Veterans Day Island Club hosted 100 local golfers who wanted to show and Seabrook Island resident Ed Gillen.
untold stories. Charitable Golf Tournament to recognize veterans their support for veterans of all eras. The event raised over The Fisher Flight winning team was composed of Cesare
and raise money to support the Fisher House Charleston $8,000 for the Fisher House and Veterans Hospital. Mastroianni, Jack Miller and Wounded Warriors Aubry Corley
and the Ralph Johnson Veterans Hospital in Charleston. Among honored guests attending the event were 17 and Russ Cooley. The VA Flight champions were Arnold
The event is sponsored by the Seabrook Island Club veterans from South Carolina who had been wounded Miniman, Chris Miniman, Phil Squire, and Todd Gerhart.
The story of how tennis is managed
by the nation's largest cadre of volunteers
in any sport is one of sports' best untold
stories. With access to the private records
of the USTA, Warren F. Kimball tells an
engaging and rich history of how tennis has
been managed and governed in the United
States, concludes the UNP description.
There is no better example of the mostly
volunteer run USTA tournaments than
Seabrooks annual Alan Fleming Senior
Open Clay Court State Championship
Tournament. The Fleming is a national
qualifier, and often a national title event
in itself, drawing some 250 of the top
players from a region spanning the entire
Southeast. Warren has either participated
in the tournament or helped wife Sally
Kimball with publicity for over 15 years.
Asked how cool Sally was (she has
worked with this reporter for a number
of years), Kimball said, Very cool! I had
been visiting Seabrook since 1980, and
built a home here in 2001. Both of us lived
on Seabrook, hardly knew each other, but
eventually met and got married in 2013.
Linda Malcolm, owner/proprietor/
curator extraordinaire of Indigo Books
confirmed the availability of The United
States Tennis Association: Raising the
Game in her boutique. She says university
presses are notoriously slow at distribution,
but is confident another supplier will get
the book on her shelves by the release date.
Through the bookstore, the hard cover
book is expected to retail for $40, but
Malcolm hopes a $25 soft cover version
will be available, which will increase to
books popularity. She says a lot of people
buy books on golf, in part, because there
are a lot of books on golf. Conversely,
people dont buy books on tennis for the
lack of them, a market inefficiency she
hopes Kimball can correct.
6 November 24, 2017
arts & events
Homegrown Holiday Legend Award
Bazaar is back at Johns presented to outgoing
Island County Park CCPRC Executive Director
BY FRASIER BLOCK
For The Island Connection
T
he fourth annual Homegrown
Holiday Bazaar will be held
Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m.-4
p.m. at Johns Island County Park, 2662
Mullet Hall Road, Johns Island (site of
Charleston County Parks Mullet Hall
Equestrian Center). The event is brought
to you by the Johns Island Farmers Market
and Sea Islands Chamber of Commerce
and will serve as the farmers market for
that day.
There will be over 100 vendors and
farmers, just in time to get holiday
shopping done. Buying from local
businesses supports your local economy.
The Holiday Carriage & Hay Rides,
Antique Tractor Show, Native Horse Meet
& Greets, Pony Rides, and Santa & Mrs.
Claus visits in Santa Land are sure to bring
holiday cheer to all who visit. Many local
food trucks will be on site along with
warm drinks, local craft beer from Low
Tide and Holy City Breweries, and wine.
The V-Tones of Charleston will tantalize us
with festive tunes from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.,
and members of Sol Driven Train will liven
up the Bazaar from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
There will be fun activities for all
ages including several seasonal-themed
games, crafts, cookie decorating,
ornament making, hula-hooping, and
bounce houses. Be sure to bid on the
many silent auction items to support the
operations of both hosting organizations.
The Homegrown Holiday Bazaar is your
one-stop shop for all things local and
festive.
Admission is free and there is plenty of
free parking on site.
This event would not be possible
without the sponsorship support of local
businesses including Berkeley Electric,
The Ladson Mills Agency, Art of Health
Chiropractic, McDonalds, Palmetto,
Charleston Collegiate School, Johns
Island Rehabilitation and Healthcare
Center, Kiawah Cares, Berkshire
Hathaway Home Services, Crowne at
Live Oak Square, ERA Wilder, and O2
Fitness.
To find out more about the Homegrown
Holiday Bazaar visit seaislandschamber.
org/holiday-bazaar.
daily
HONOR PRESENTED BY
A M E R I C A N A C A D E M Y F O R PA R K
A N D R E C R E AT I O N A D M I N I S T R AT I O N
BY SARAH REYNOLDS
For The Island Connection
O
utgoing Charleston County Park
and Recreation Commission
Executive Director Tom ORourke
was recently distinguished as a Legend
in the Field of park and recreation
administration by the American Academy
for Park and Recreation Administration.
The honor was presented at the National
Recreation and Park Association annual
conference in September.
For the honor, AAPRA selects
individuals who have made outstanding
contributions to the field of parks
and recreation. The organization also
interviews those individuals to share
their professional insights, advice and
philosophical beliefs on the field, through
video posts on their website, aapra.org.
As part of the honor, a video presentation
created of ORourkes reflection on his
years in the field and his ideas for the
future is now among the archives at the
University of Utah.
ORourke joined CCPRC as executive
director in 2001, following the retirement
of director Tim Eubanks, who had been
with the agency since 1987. CCPRCs
executive director is responsible for the
oversight of the 11,000-acre park system
consisting of a wide array of parks,
programs and services.
ORourke became director of the
renowned NRPA Directors School in
February 2017. Established in 2008,
the Directors School prepares new and
prospective directors for the challenges of
leading and managing a successful park
and recreation agency.
Former CCPRC executive director,
ORourke is also a Professor of Practice
at Clemson University in the Parks,
Recreation and Tourism Management
Department, and also the Executive
Director of The Parklands Foundation
of Charleston County. Prior to joining
CCPRC, ORourke was the director of the
Mount Pleasant Recreation Department
and also established and served as the
manager of the Sports and Recreation
Division for Seamon Whiteside and
Associates, a landscape architect and
engineering firm. He graduated from
Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania
in 1978.
Transitioning into ORourkes former
role as executive director is CCPRCs
former Chief Operating Officer David
Bennett, who has been with CCPRC
since 1987. Bennett became CCPRCs
executive director in March 2017.
The AAPRA is a group of distinguished
practitioners and educators who are
leaders in the field of park and recreation.
Established in 1980, the academy was
formed to advance knowledge related
to the administration of recreation and
parks; encourage scholarly efforts by both
practitioners and educators to enhance
the practice of park and recreation
administration; promote broader public
understanding of the importance of
parks and recreation to the public good;
and conduct research, publish scholarly
papers and/or sponsor seminars related to
the advancement of park and recreation
administration. For more information,
visit aapra.org.
For more information on CCPRC,
visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call
843.795.4386.
November 24, 2017
Kiawah Trainer continues on page 7
The farms 80 acres boast two large ponds and sits
overlooking the banks of the Kiawah River and Kiawah
Island. Settled amongst the equestrian landscape of
grazing horses and traditional farm fencing is a large
pen filled with myriad of jump obstacles of varying size
daily
and type to accommodate riders of all levels. Chadwells
decades of experience in personal training and equestrian
competition is perfect for the position of trainer; her
knowledge in competitive jumping, equitation, dressage,
and show hunters is what led her to become the head of
the verdantly ideal Kiawah River Stables this summer,
after joining the team in February.
7
Kiawah River Stables is a wonderful place to work
and train. Its beautiful, peaceful, relaxing; everyone
here is friendly and supportive and the horses thrive in
that atmosphere, observes Chadwell. Their happiness
at the farm carries over into their training and tends to
enhance their performance at home and at the shows.
Chadwell, was so enchanted with the property that she
and her husband and two young stepsons moved onto
the Kiawah River Stables property this fall. The move
assured that staff is on hand 24/7, should a horse or
cow, as there are several black cattle kept by Mashni on
the property be in need of after-hours care.
Growing up on a Vermont farm and learning to ride
at the early age of 3 years old, Chadwells passion and
know-how is profound. She stresses the importance of
good horsemanship to all riders, and her ability to lead
riders of all levels is what helps make the stables a perfect
spot, regardless of experience.
The stables homes a number of horses, including the
beautiful, docile 20-year-old Rowan, who goes by the
name Timepiece when showing. Rowan and similar horses
boarded at the facility are ideal for beginners and riders
who have stepped away from equestrian sport and are
interested in revisiting it. There are also many horses at
the stables that are best for intermediate and expert riders.
Sweet smells of hay and soft horse sounds resonate
throughout the well-kept and constructed stable stalls.
Monthly boarding cost include stable maintenance, daily
grooming, essential veterinary care, and many other
basics, such as deworming all horses boarded at the
stables. Kiawah River Stables is currently offering specials
to new boarders, with the first month of boarding offered
as a complimentary bonus for joining with a twelve-
month boarding contract. Additionally, the stables
is offering discounted rates for lessons and training
packages. With its sumptuous riding paths and rings and
incredibly knowledgeable staff, the Kiawah River Stables
is a perfect spot for horse enthusiasts of all levels and akin
to traditional Johns Island pastures and farms, a warm
and welcomed spot of tranquility.
8 November 24, 2017
daily daily

Seabrook kids New building

group growing program unveiled
STAFF REPORT
S U N D AY P L AY G R O U P M E E T S AT The Island Connection

THE LAKE HOUSE

T
he New Home Collection at
Seabrook Island is a new home plan
BY PENNY LEE and building program for Seabrook.
For The Island Connection
It is created for those who wish to build a

W
ho knew there were 55 children
living full-time on Seabrook
Island? Thats what we all said
to each other on Sunday, Nov. 12, at the
first meeting of the Seabrook Island Kids
Group. Nearly half of our 55 resident kids
played at the Lake House for close to two
hours, represented by 14 parents. It was a
fantastic turn-out and everyone had fun.
The childrens ages ranged from less than
a year to 17 years; 63 percent were 12
and under. While most of our kids have
relocated to the island from other places,
a few were born here. Some of our kids are
home-schooled but most hit the road early
in the morning to travel to schools as close
as Mt. Zion and Charleston Collegiate and
as far as Academic Magnet. What they all
have in common is a strong desire to meet
and play with other kids on the island, and
be fully integrated into life on Seabrook.
After a round of introductions, the
kids discovered the wide range of existing
resources at the Lake House: pool and
ping pong tables, the playground, and
board games, while the grown-ups talked
about other kinds of activities that might
be fun for kids to do on Seabrook. Ideas
ranged from talent shows to movie nights
to crabbing, fishing, and birding lessons.
To get the ball rolling, one of the dads,
Brennon Jones (b_jones9@yahoo.com)
organized a regular Sunday afternoon
playgroup at the Lake House playground.
In response to our meeting notice on
Nextdoor, the Turtle Patrol invited kids to
join their turtle protection efforts starting
next May. If there are other kid-friendly
groups or clubs, please consider inviting
your younger neighbors to join you.
For more information about the
Seabrook Island Kids Group email
Seabrookislandkids@gmail.com.
A Lucky Dog Favorite
new home without having to go through
the arduous time-consuming processes
required to build a custom home.
The Collection developer, Bill Britton, says
its building made simple. He goes on to say
the New Home Collection will eliminate
people having to start the building process
from scratch. We have done all the upfront
work by creating the plans, specifications
and the team to build the houses. Our Team
will work with each client from start through
move-in. Our process is simple; the client
meets with their Realtor and selects one of
the Collection plans and a Seabrook Island
lot, then they work with our builder and
interior designer to go over all the details,
customizing their finishes. The best part is
the building prices are fixed, guaranteed,
so the client knows their costs of building
upfront, its all spelled out.
The collection plans will be require
final approval from the ARC once a lot is
selected and the exterior colors are selected
and the site plan is finalized.
According to Britton, programs like the
Collection have been successful in other
The Sunset Cottage
communities for many years, but one has
never been offered in Seabrook, prior to now.
He says the local architectural, building,
interior design and landscaping firms have
been vetted and meticulously selected based
on their trusted devotion to their profession,
reputation and years of gold star service to their
clients on Seabrook and Kiawah Islands.
The timeless architecture and the
meticulously designed plans offer 3, 4 or
5 bedrooms, ranging from 2650 sq. ft. to
3400 sq. ft. The plans fit on most all of
the Seabrook lots with all homes meeting
todays hurricane protection standards.
The New Home Collection Building
Team includes Live Oak Design Studio,
Great Southern Builders, Beauregard
Design, and Three Oaks Landscaping. The
Collection will be marketed by Seabrook
Island Real Estate and through MLS. For
questions and details regarding the New
Home Collection please contact your Realtor.
November 24, 2017
ROADTRIPS CHARLESTON
Home Sweet Homestay
The entrance to the compound.
BY CAROL ANTMAN
For The Island Connection
A
propos of the connectivity of our world today, I
booked a home stay with a Quechua family in
Ecuador through Airbnb. From my first-world home
on Sullivans Island, it seemed like a soft adventure for solo
travel and a good way to practice speaking Spanish. Especially
for $10 a night. But as I rambled into the dark countryside in a
cab that kept stopping to ask directions, I became concerned.
Especially when my cabbie gave up. He hailed another driver
and directed me to Get in his cab. Maybe he can find it.
I was dropped off at a steep rock staircase. On a boulder,
the words Loma Wasi and welcome in three languages
were scrawled in chipped paint. I bolstered my courage and
schlepped my suitcase up the stairs. Hola, I called as I
entered the courtyard full of hanging laundry.
Puppies scampered underfoot. A tarp covered with corn
husks covered the ground. Mercedes, the family matriarch,
greeted me as she fed stalks into a smoky fireplace and mixed
dough to make tortillas. Diana, her daughter, was grinding
roasted pumpkin seeds with a mortar and pestle to make a
sauce for purple potatoes. I offered to help and soon we all sat
around the dinner table: a family of 4 visiting from Quebec, a
volunteer from Toronto and the five family members.
If You Go:
lomawasi.com
9
followed a blond gringa and went missing for fifteen days.
Phantoms roam the mountainsides.
The surrounding community of Tunibamba builds bricks.
Along the one-hour walk into the nearest town, I saw several
pits from which clay has been excavated. Cows are yoked
together to stomp and mix the ingredients. Then blocks are
cut, often by families including children, and left to dry in the
sun. Occasional trucks grunt up the hill to carry them away.
But at Loma Wasi, they had begun this home stay enterprise
instead. An English speaking relative made them a slick
website and took care of the bookings. His responsiveness
was much better than the lackadaisical approach I found at
many tourist offices in the country. Appreciative comments
by visitors from around the world attest to their success.
We were mutually curious. Mercedes and I discovered that
we were both grandmothers about the same age. Tell me
about your animals, she asked. I have none, I replied which
left her wondering if I was really as rich as she supposed. One
night in a bit of exuberance fueled by a little rum another
visitor had brought, I instigated a dance session to Uptown
Funk. Diana was so amused, she videoed it and showed it to
the neighbors.
I was glad I had bucked up and had such an authentic
experience. This is a crazy special opportunity to see a
PHOTOS BY CAROL ANTMAN different world, I wrote in my journal. Isnt that the goal of
traveling?
After dinner, they showed me to my room. I had a
comfortable bed, a private bathroom with a flush toilet and a
shower with occasional hot water. The silhouette of Imbabura
Volcano filled my window, the towns lights far below. Piles of
finely woven Ecuadorian blankets covered the bed. Although
it was July, I needed them all. There was even strong Wi-Fi.
But that night, loud skittering sounds from inside my ceiling
made me pull the blankets over my head. I may leave early,
I wrote in my journal. I draw the line at rats.
But the next day I mellowed. Andy, the volunteer,
admonished me about the rats Thats life on a farm!
The family entranced me. They never stopped working.
They swept the dusty courtyard, did washtubs full of laundry
by hand and tended animals. Making breakfast involved
picking fruit to juice, milking the cow for coffee, gathering
eggs for omelets and (if it was the right weekday) hiking up
the hill to the neighbors to get fresh bread. Then it was time
to start dinner.
One day Andy was tasked with moving big boulders from
the garden, putting them in a wheelbarrow and dumping
them across the yard. As he began, Mercedes filled a burlap
sack with boulders and slung it heavily over her shoulder.
Isnt there something easier you can do today Mercedes? he
asked her. But she kept on.
Mario, the patriarch, was proud of his youthful travels to
Mercedes making tortillas at Loma Wasi.
Europe with his pan flute band and his ability to cure diseases
through shamanic ceremonies involving guinea pigs. A box of Roadtrips Charleston highlights interesting destinations
the squealers was in the backyard awaiting roasting on special within a few hours drive of Charleston, S.C. as well as more far
occasions. On a particularly clear day he took us up the hill flung locales. Carol Antmans wanderlust is driven by a passion
to see Cotacachi Volcano. Its said that the snow on its peak for outdoor adventure, artistic experiences, cultural insights
means that the mountain had sex with Imbabura Volcano. and challenging travel. For hot links, photographs and previous
Dont go in that ravine at night, he pointed out along the columns or to make comments please see peaksandpotholes.
route, there is bad energy there. He told us about a guy who blogspot.com.
November 24, 2017
Let Your Heart Be Light
H O L I D AY F E S T I VA L O F L I G H T S O P E N AT J A M E S I S L A N D C O U N T Y PA R K
T
he beloved Holiday Festival of Lights returns to
James Island County Park in
November for its 28th year. Featuring an
estimated two million shimmering lights, Charlestons
most popular holiday event opened for nightly admission
Nov. 10.
More than four million people have toured the Holiday
Festival of Lights, which is hosted by the Charleston
County Park and Recreation Commission. The event
has received many awards and mentions in publications
throughout the country, and the three-mile driving tour
delivers more excitement every year. The event is open
nightly starting at 5:30 p.m. through Jan. 1, 2018.
The Holiday Festival of Lights is known for its three-
mile driving tour, but there is much more to see and do.
Visitors are encouraged to park the car and experience
family attractions, shopping, dining and more. Some of
the other celebrated attractions and activities include:
Marshmallow Roasting
Festival Train Rides
Interactive Lakeside Lights
The Amazing Dancing Light Display
Enchanted Walking Trail
Old-Fashioned Carousel
Portable Climbing Wall
Santas Sweet Shoppe
Four Gift Shops, featuring the childrens toy
emporium Prancers Presents
daily
BY SARAH REYNOLDS
For The Island Connection
Daytime photo opportunities to Mingle with
Kringle (register in advance)
Entertainment on select evenings
In Winter Wonderland, see a meticulously crafted
sculpture constructed with 50 tons of sand. Wander
through festival shops for unique gifts, official 14-kt gold
on brass collector series ornaments, toys, personalized
items, decorations and stocking stuffers. Hop aboard the
festival train for an intimate look at the festival, only seen
on this enchanted ride.
Explore Santas Village, where the man himself is
available for photos on select dates, starting the day before
Thanksgiving. Take a whirl on the traditional 18-animal
carousel, make smores at the marshmallow roasting pits,
and marvel at giant 4-by-8 holiday greeting card designs
created by local students for the annual art competition.
Enjoy entertainment on select nights, including live
music, storytelling, visits with Mrs. Claus, carolers,
outdoor movies and more. W hats every familys best bet
for savings at the Holiday Festival of Lights? Join us on
our evenings benefitting the Lowcountry Food Bank
every Monday through Thursday! Bring a canned food
item (dog and cat food also accepted) on these nights to
receive discounted admission.
For more information on the Holiday Festival of Lights,
including event hours and fees, call 843.795.4386 or visit
HolidayFestivalofLights.com. This event is presented by The
Boeing Company and your Charleston County Parks.
11
Nov. 25: The Footlight Players, performing an excerpt
from Annie.
Nov. 26: Visit with Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m.
Nov. 29: Starlight Yoga - The moon and stars enhance
this flowing yoga class. 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 30: Ask a Naturalist, 6 p.m.
Dec. 1: Storytelling with the South Carolina Stingrays,
6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Visit with Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m. Ask
a Naturalist, 6 p.m.
Dec. 2: School of the Arts performance, 6 and 7 p.m.
Dec. 3: School of the Arts performance, 6 and 7 p.m.
Dec. 5: School of the Arts performance, 6 and 7 p.m.
Dec. 7: Visit with the South Carolina Aquarium, 6-8
p.m. Lowcountry Power Brass performance, 7- 9 p.m.
Dec. 8: Storytelling with the Charleston Animal Society,
6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Visit with Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m.
Dec. 9: Holiday Carolers, 68 p.m.
Dec. 10: Juggling Elves, 7:30 8:30 p.m.
Dec. 11: Visit with Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m.
Dec. 13: Visit with Mrs. Claus, 6-10 p.m.
Dec. 14: Lowcountry Power Brass performance, 7-9 p.m.
Ask a Naturalist, 6 p.m.
Dec. 15: Storytelling with the Charleston County
Sheriffs Office, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Visit with the South
Carolina Aquarium, 6-8 p.m. Ask a Naturalist, 6 p.m.
 November 24
ONGOING
WHAT: Holiday Canned Food drive
WHERE: The Lake House
WHEN: Nov. 1 through Dec. 10
MORE INFO: Last year the canned food
drive raised over 3000 lbs of canned food.
Drive continues through November. Food
is delivered to the Sea Island Hunger
Awareness Foundation.
WHAT: Holiday Festival of Lights
WHERE: James Island County Park
WHEN: nightly, dusk-10 p.m.
MORE INFO: Award-winning Holiday
Festival of Lights. Three-mile driving
tour features over 700 light displays,
attractions like marshmallow roasting,
gift shops and more within Winter
Wonderland and Santas Village.
Special event nights including movies,
music and live performances will
take place on select nights. For more
information, call 843.795.4386 or visit
HolidayFestivalofLights.com.
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.
WHAT: Charleston Coastal Choir rehearsal
WHERE: Church of Our Savior, Johns
Island
WHEN: 1-2:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Coastal
Choir, a local mixed community chorus,
is seeking new members to bring fun
and enjoyment to the low country. For
info contact Van McCollum, Director
of Music at 404.401.0678 or via email
vanmccollum@bellsouth.net.
Tuesdays
WHAT: 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.
WHAT: Tango Lessons/Practice
WHERE: MUSC Wellness Center, 45
Courtenay Dr.
WHEN: 7:30-8:30
MORE INFO: Charleston Argentine
Tango Society offers a free one-hour tango
lesson and practice. The MUSC gym
charges $5 at the entrance, but lessons
themselves are free. Everyone is welcome,
not just couples.
Wednesdays
WHAT: Lake House Yoga
WHERE: The Lake House
WHEN: 8:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Rise and Shine Yoga with
Patti Romano, formerly known at Gentle
Flow Yoga. Rise and Shine Yoga is an all
levels practice focused around finding your
Island Connection Calendar
days intention, set up yourself for success
and be ready to shine.
WHAT: Kids Fishing Tournament
WHERE: Bohicket Marina
WHEN: 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: A Fishing Tournament just for
kids ages 4-14. Two rounds of fishing. Arrive at
least 15 minutes before your desired round. Its
only $7 per participant which includes all bait
and fishing rods. Every tournament produces 3
winners which will receive a tournament shirt,
bait, bucket and bragging rights. Questions call
248.719.0076.
WHAT: Sea Islands Book Club
WHERE: Johns Island Regional Library,
3531 Maybank Highway
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Adult discussion of Dead Wake:
The Last Crossing of the Lusitania by Erik Larson.
Fridays
WHAT: Adult art classes, multimedia
WHERE: 3280 Loft at Bohicket Marina,
1897 Andell Bluff Way, Seabrook Island
WHEN: 10 a.m. - noon
Saturday
WHAT: Johns Island Farmers Market
WHERE: Charleston Collegiate SChool,
2024 Academy Rd.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Charlestons only year-
round farmers market, highlighting
produce and locally produced goods
and foods. Live music, kids activities.
JohnsIslandFarmersMarket.com for details.
FRIDAY, NOV. 24 & 25
WHAT: Santa visits Freshfields Village
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Friday from 11 a.m.-3
p.m. features holiday fun. A jump castle,
childrens train and face painting. Families
can create a special, handmade holiday
gift in the crafts area while listening to
the interactive childrens music band,
Big Bang Boom. Families will receive a
complimentary photo with Santa, courtesy
of Freshfields Village merchants.
SATURDAY, NOV. 25
WHAT: A Motown Christmas
WHERE: Charleston Music Hall
WHEN: 8-9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Performance contains that
unmistakable Motown stamp, including
flashy suits, great singing and dancing, and
a polished show that has set the bar for
every vocal artist since the late 1950s. For
tickets and info visit CharlestonMusicHall.
com.
WHAT: 7th Annual Sprint Triathlon
Relay
WHERE: The Lake House
WHEN: 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: $50 per team. For more
info please contact Jamie Mogus Mixson at
jmogus@sipoa.org.
WHAT: Tour of Homes
WHERE: Seabrook Island Real Estate
WHEN: 1-3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Tour 15 different properties
currently for sale on Seabrook Island. Visit
the Seabrook Island Reception Center just
before entering the gate for brochures, a
map and to arrange gate access. For details
visit SeabrookIslandRealEstate.com.
SUNDAY, NOV. 26
WHAT: Santas Little Helpers Kids Yoga
Class
WHERE: Studio 33
WHEN: 11:30 a.m. 12:45 p.m.
MORE INFO: For kids, ages 3 10.
Shake out those elf wiggles, follow a
magical storybook journey to the North
Pole, play rockin reindeer games and even
a visit from St. Nick himself. For info and
registration visit Studio33Kiawah.com.
TUESDAY, NOV. 28
WHAT: A Charlestonian in Barbados
WHERE: Charleston Public Library
WHEN: 6-7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Barbados looms large
in South Carolina history. Join CCPLs
historian, Dr. Nic Butler, for an illustrated
discussion of his recent trip to the island
of Barbados, with an emphasis on historic
sites and the deep cultural connections
between our two communities. For details
visit CCPL.org.
NOV. 29-DEC. 30
WHAT: A Christmas Carol
WHERE: Dock Street Theater
WHEN: select nights, 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: For tickets to this inspiring
holiday tradition visit CharlestonStage.
com.
FRIDAY, DEC. 1
WHAT: Charleston Gallery Association
Artwalk
WHERE: various locations downtown
WHEN: 5-8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Over 40 galleries
participating. The event is free. Visit
CharlestonGalleryAssociation.com for a
list of participating galleries and info.
SATURDAY, DEC. 2
WHAT:Homegrown Holiday Bazarre
WHERE: Johns Island County Park
WHEN: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Over 100 vendors and
farmers. Live music, food trucks, pony
rides and an antique tractor show. For
info visit SeaIslandsChamber.org/holiday-
bazarre.
SUNDAY, DEC. 3
WHAT: A Madrigal Feast
WHERE: River Course Clubhouse,
Kiawah
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Kiawah Arts Council
is bringing the College of Charlestons
Madrigal Feast to Kiawah. Dressed in
traditional renaissance garb, singing
holiday music under the direction of
Dr. Robert Taylor. Three course meal,
wine throughout. Space is limited,
reservations required. Call Marilyn Ferrell
843.768.9976 for more information.
TUESDAY, DEC. 5
WHAT: Jazz and Toys
WHERE: Andell Inn Porch Bar,
Freshfields Village
WHEN: 6-8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join Mary Whyte (and
bring a toy or two!) while enjoying live
music by The Joy Project and drinks at
the Andell Inns Porch Bar. All toys will
benefit Johns Island children and will be
distributed at the Church of Our Saviours
Grandparents Tea Party on Dec. 13. For
more information email william.pittman@
marriott.com or cowpath@aol.com.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6
WHAT: Opioid overdose and Narcan
Training
WHERE: Johns Island Regional Library
WHEN: 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Opioid addiction has
become a nationwide, chronic issue.
Charleston Center will conduct a training
on how to respond to an opioid overdose
and administer Narcan. Participants
receive a free Narcan kit with two doses.
FRIDAY, DEC. 8
WHAT: Lighthouse Inlet Heritage
Preserve Bird Walk
WHERE: Lighthouse Inlet, Folly Beach
WHEN: 8:30 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: For ages 12 and up. Use
a spotting scope to scour the ocean for
gannets and sea ducks, and scan the beach
for wintering shorebirds. A registered and
paid chaperone is required for participants
ages 15 and under. Pre-register for course
#53651. $7. CharlestonCountyParks.com.
SATURDAY, DEC. 9
WHAT: 2nd Annual Christmas Boat
Parade
WHERE: Bohicket Marina
WHEN: 6-9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Live Christmas carols,
hot chocolate and smores, best decorated
boat contest and ugly sweater contest.
Requirements: Decorate the starboard
side of your vessel. All vessels must have
a working VHF radio. All Captains are
responsible for the legal operation of their
vessel after sunset. SCDNR and the
USCG are aware of the event. Entry forms
available in the Marina Office or go to
holycitysailing.com/parade to download.
WHAT: Charleston Gospel Choir
WHERE: Burke High School Auditorium
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Tickets $35 for adults, $30
for seniors and $15 for students with ID.
Available online at Charlestongospelchoir.
org or by calling 866.811.4111.
December 14
SUNDAY, DEC. 10
WHAT: V-tones 13th Annual Holiday
Extravaganza
WHERE: Charleston Public Library
WHEN: 3 - 4:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Charlestons premiere
ukulele-led band brings the holiday
festivities to the Main Branch of the
Charleston Public Library for the 13th
consecutive year. Visit CCPL.org for
details.
MONDAY, DEC. 11
WHAT: World Affairs Council of
Charleston
WHERE: The Citadel Holliday Alumni
Center
WHEN: 5:15 - 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: WACC member and
former Acting U.S. Ambassador in
Ukraine, Estonia, Iceland and Norway,
Jon Gundersen will speak on Russia and
the Baltic countries: Anxieties mount as
Putin steps up pressure and NATO and
the U.S. deploy military forces. For more
information visit waccharleston.org.
THURSDAY, DEC. 14
WHAT: Toys for Tots Christmas Drop-In
WHERE: Seabrook Island Town Hall
WHEN: noon - 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Seabrookers are invited to
drop off unwrapped toy donations for the
holidays.
14
financial focus
Share Your Financial
Abundance With Family
BY DIMI MATOUCHEV
For The Island Connection
T
hanksgiving is here. Ideally, this
day should be about more than
football and the imminent arrival
of Black Friday mega-sales. After all,
the spirit of the holiday invites us to be
grateful for what we have and for the
presence of our loved ones.
But its important to look beyond just
one day in November if you want your
family to take part in your abundance.
If you want to ensure your financial
resources eventually are shared in the way
you envision, you will need to follow a
detailed action plan, including these steps:
Identify your assets. If you
havent done so already, its a good
idea to take an inventory of all your
financial assets: your retirement
accounts (401(k) and IRA), other
investments, life insurance, real
estate, collectibles and other items.
Once you know exactly what you
have, you can determine how you
would like these assets distributed
among your loved ones.
Get professional help. To ensure
your assets go to the right people,
you will need to create some
legal documents, such as a will
and a living trust. The depth and
complexity of these instruments
will depend a great deal on your
individual circumstances, but in
any case, you certainly will need
to consult with a legal professional
because estate planning is not a
do-it-yourself endeavor. You
may also need to work with a tax
professional and your financial
advisor, as taxes and investments
are key components of the legacy
you hope to leave.
Protect your financial
independence. If your own
financial resources were to become
endangered, you clearly would have
less to share with your loved ones,
and if your financial independence
were jeopardized, the result might
be even worse; your adult children
might be forced to use their own
November 24, 2017
resources to help support you.
Consequently, you will need to
protect yourself, and your financial
assets, in several ways. For one
thing, you may want to work with
your legal professional to create a
power of attorney, which would
enable someone possibly a grown
child to make financial decisions
for you, should you become
incapacitated. Also, you may
want to guard yourself against
the devastating costs of long-term
care, such as an extended nursing
home stay. Medicare typically pays
very little of these expenses, but a
financial advisor may be able to
suggest techniques or products
that can help.
Communicate your wishes.
Once you have all your plans in
place, youll want to communicate
them to your loved ones. By doing
so, youll be sparing your loved
ones from unpleasant surprises
when its time to settle your estate.
And, second, by making your
plans and wishes known to your
family well in advance of when
any action needs to be taken,
youll prepare your loved ones
for the roles you wish them to
assume, such as taking on power
of attorney, serving as executor of
your estate, and so on. And youll
also want to make sure your family
is acquainted with the legal, tax
and financial professionals youve
chosen to help you with your
estate plans.
Thanksgiving comes just once a year.
Taking the steps described here can help
ensure your family will share in your
financial abundance as you intended.
Dimi Matouchev is a financial advisor
with Edward Jones, located at 1505
Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms. For more
information, call 843.886.9229 or visit
edwardjones.com.
November 24, 2017 15