PRESORT STANDARD
US POSTAGE PAID
Volume 3 Issue 20 FREE
A hidden cottage of the senses
B eneath the distant drone of passing Cessnas, the first measures of Beethoven’s
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C Sharp Minor can be heard drifting up from a drowsy
hedge of late summer hydrangeas. Somewhere in the wild English garden, water
splashes over a hidden waterfall and those passing through are swiftly immersed in
a feeling of calm and peace. It’s not something you would expect to find off of Fort
Trenholm Road - the entrance to the Johns Island Regional Airport – but Peggy and
Paul Lieber were not interested in leaving the island which they have come to know as
home.
As the owners and founders of Royal Labs Natural Cosmetics, Inc., the first
company in the world to create an all natural preservation system for body, hair
and skin care products, the Liebers felt that it was time for their business to
expand beyond simply manufacturing. They had a vision of a place where
people could come and receive five star spa services without having to stay
at a five star resort or join an exclusive club. Thus, Cottage Aroma Bella
was born.
Nestled in the shadow of its parent company, Royal Labs, Cottage
Aroma Bella is a loving recreation of a two hundred year old
English cottage. Surrounded by a thickly blooming garden, the
heavy wooden doors of the two story Tudor home open into a
spacious
I n s id e t h e I sl a nd
page 7 Winter gardening page 11 Hats4 heroes
CHARLESTON SC
PERMIT NO 437
January 22, 2010
foyer decorated with 19th century antiques and dominated by a towering stone fireplace.
The entire cottage is rife with original English countryside paintings, exquisite linens,
hand-embroidered fabrics, intricate woodwork, fine marble, and the gentle scent of pure
essential oils, showcasing the owner’s enduring passion for beauty and timeless quality.
The attention to detail is evident in every room, from the 1,000 thread count Egyptian
cotton sheets draping the massage tables, to the generous glass and marble showers
and individually packaged combs and toothbrushes in each restroom. Customers are
encouraged to wrap themselves in fluffy, organic cotton robes and enjoy herbal teas
served in fine, antique china while they pause between services, or to calm down
before beginning their first treatment.
Cottage Aroma Bella is fully staffed with highly qualified licensed massage
therapists and estheticians, all under the management of Eryn Groh,
formerly of Sasanqua spa with The Kiawah Island Club.
“The Liebers have owned so many spas in the past, that they knew
exactly what they were going for when they built Cottage Aroma
Bella,” said Eryn. “They’ve created an environment that truly
takes you back in time.”
Cottage continued on page 13
Con nection. . .
page 15 Volunteer this year
2 January 22, 2010
Kiawah Island Council – January 5, 2010
Second reading of ordinance 2009-11: Annual committee member
business license ordinance amendment appointments
Council unanimously voted to approve “Every year we go through and appoint
ordinance 2009-11, which amends the or renew members to committees,” said
rate table for the various classifications of Mayor Wert as he asked Councilman
businesses as described in section 4-323 Lipuma to recommend his appointments
of the Town Code. Copies of the new for the Arts Council. “As you may recall,
rate table are available at Town Hall. we had two people leave this past year,”
said Lipuma. In light of that, he asked
Affirmation of the 2009 Ordinances that Judy Perry be added to the Council’s
As the Town Council annually affirms group of regulars. “She’s qualified with
the ordinances passed during the past a strong background in arts and music.”
year, acting Town Clerk Cathy Wilson The Council unanimously approved
asked for an affirmation, to which the Perry’s appointment, along with the
Council agreed unanimously. rest of the Arts Council: Bill Blizard,
Ellie Burnaford, Becky Hilstad, Linda
The Island Morganstein, Mary Johnson, Arie
DeZanger and Julie Fenimore.
Councilman McHugh gave his
Connection nominations for the Environmental
Committee, thanking everyone who
Lynn Pierotti worked on the Committee last year,
Publisher all of whom wish to serve this year.
lynn@luckydognews.com The Council unanimously approved
this year’s Environmental Committee,
Kristin Hackler which will consist of Dave Achey, Dale
Managing Editor Anderson, Lois Bryant, Jim Chitwood,
kristin@luckydognews.com David Elliott, Aaron Given, Jim Jordan,
Elizabeth King and Norm Shea.
Swan Richards Councilman Orban nominated this
Graphic Designer year’s Public Safety Committee, asking
swan@luckydognews.com
for the reappointment of past members
Jim Broadus, Doug Dodge, Joe Pezzullo
Ali Akhyari
Assistant Editor and Dick Sula. The Council approved the
ali@luckydognews.com nominations unanimously.
Lori Dalton BZA reappointment
Account Executive Although the new members of the Board
lori@luckydognews.com of Zoning Appeals were appointed
in December, member Tom Burke’s
Ben Jordan appointment has expired and the
Advertising Chairman of the BZA suggested that he
ben@luckydognews.com would like Tom Burke to continue with
the Board. Burke’s reappointment was
Chelsea Langan approved unanimously and his term will
Advertising expire again on January 31, 2013.
chelsea@luckydognews.com
Contributors
Jennifer Barbour
William Duggen
Civic Calendar
Dwight Ives January 25, 2010
Nick Strehle Kiawah Island Board of Zoning
Appeals
Published by 14pm - 5pm
Lucky Dog Publishing Town Hall Council Chambers
of South Carolina, LLC
P.O. Box 837 January 26, 2010
Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 Kiawah Island Ways and Means
843-886-NEWS Committee meeting
9am
Future deadlines: Kiawah Island Municipal Center’s 2nd
January 27 for
Floor Conference Room
submissions.
Op-Ed articles do not necessarily reflect the
Seabrook Island Town Council
opinion of Lucky Dog News or its writers.
All Town Council meetings will be held
at 2:30pm at the Town Hall unless noted
otherwise on the Town bulletin board.
February 1, 2010
Kiawah Island Environmental
Committee
3pm - 5pm
Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Publishers of Island Eye News,
The Island Connection and
The Folly Current.
Planning Commission reappointment
Mayor Wert asked the Council to
reappoint Larry Iwan to the Planning
Commission for a term to expire on
January 31, 2014. Iwan’s nomination was
approved unanimously.
Ordinance 2010-01: annexation of
roundabout
“This is something that slipped through
the cracks when we built the roundabout
[at Freshfields Village],” said Mayor Wert.
“We never went through the procedure
of annexing the land, so therefore we
have the first reading of ordinance 2010-
01.” The land is owned entirely by the
Town of Kiawah and abuts the Town’s
existing corporate limits. The Council
approved the ordinance unanimously. A
second reading of ordinance 2010-01 will
be held just before the February Town
Council meeting.
Revised regime solid waste collection
costs
“This is basically for information only,”
said Mayor Wert, pointing out that the
contract with Republic Services of SC
has already been negotiated. Councilman
McHugh noted that the new revised
waste and recycling program is now
officially five days old and is humming
right along. “This contract reflects
the inclusion of solid waste pickup for
regimes and public areas in aggregate,
and reduces cost by about 20% compared
to contracts already in place with
regimes,” said McHugh. “That’s not to
say that this is a linear 20% savings across
the regimes. There were some regimes
where we made no positive impact and
others no impact at all.” However, he
stated that an oversight committee has
been formed to monitor the program and
that they will continue to look hard at
the costs.
February 2, 2010
Kiawah Island Town Council
2pm - 4pm
Town Hall Council Chambers
February 3, 2010
Kiawah Island Planning Commission
3pm - 5pm
Town Hall Council Chambers
February 4, 2010
Kiawah Island Arts Council
3pm - 5pm
Town Hall - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Johns Island Council Meeting
7pm – 8pm
Berkeley Electric Co-Op on Maybank
Rd.
February 8, 2010
St. Johns Fire District Commission
7pm
St. Johns Commission Building
3327 Maybank Highway, Johns Island
www.islandconnectionnews.com
VC3 computer contract
Mayor Wert explained that the contract
with VC3 authorizes the Town to renew
their contract through June 30, 2013, but
they will be reviewed on an annual basis,
“and if we find the contract has not been
fulfilled, we’ll be able to cancel it,” said
the Mayor. Councilman Orban further
explained that the contact is beneficial
as it is a fixed price contract. “Before, we
were paying by the hour for server fixes
and installations.” With two servers,
14 computers, 13 printers and multiple
software applications, Mayor Wert
stated with a smile that the Town has a
“media empire” that needs to be taken
care of, and the contract also includes
virus protection. “As anyone knows,” said
Wert, “while traveling, the worst words
you can hear are ‘The system is down’.”
The Council approved the contract
unanimously.
Arts Council ticket policy change
“Let me start by saying that, since its
inception in 2004, Kiawah Arts Council
events have been increasingly popular
in our community and neighboring
communities,” said Councilman Lipuma.
“We have encouraged our neighbors
to attend events, and to that end we
have been very successful.” He went
on to explain that ticket demand has
increased a lot in recent years, and many
performances have been packed, if not
sold out entirely. To that effect, Lipuma
stated that the Arts Council would like to
give priority to Kiawah property owners
by allowing them to pick up their tickets
three days in advance of the tickets
becoming available to the general public.
If approved, the advance ticket policy
would come into effect on February 1,
2010. Mayor Wert stated that no motion
KI Council continued on page 4
K iawah Island Town H all
21 Beachwalker Drive
Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Phone: 768-9166
Fax: 768-4764
Email: cwilson@kiawahisland.org
Seabrook Island Town H all
2001 Seabrook Island Road
Seabrook Island, SC 29455
Phone: 768-9121
Fax: 768-9830
Email:
lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
Johns Island Council
Meetings are held at the Berkeley
Electric Co-op located at 3351
Maybank Hwy, John’s Island.
Chairman Chris Cannon: 343-5113
Charleston County Council
4045 Bridge View Dr, N Charleston
(843) 958-4700
City of Charleston
75 Calhoun St.
(843) 724-3745
January 22, 2010
The Johns Island Council met at
Johns Island Council – January 7, 2010
6:30pm in order to allow guest speaker,
Congressman Leon Stavrinakis, more
time to conduct a casual question and
answer period with local residents.
Zoning and site design requests
around the island
Following up on a request to the City’s
Site Design Committee to remove 17
grand trees (the request was deferred last
October), the developers for St. Johns
Woods have changed their request to
removing four grand trees and placing
an impervious setback around ten grand
trees. Chairman Chris Cannon stated
that he spoke with City Arborist Eric
Schultz about the request, and Schultz
pointed out that two of the grand trees
to be removed are gum trees. “Their
request has changed tremendously,” said
Cannon, noting that the new request
seems reasonable.
Cannon also reported that St. Johns
Marina has requested to extend special
sections of their development due to
financial issues.
Lastly, Cannon reported that a request
has been made to County Zoning for
resource extraction at 4619 Chisolm
Road. “If you live near there,” said
Cannon, “the problem isn’t so much the
digging as the traffic from the trucks
hauling the dirt.”
Treasurer’s report
Treasurer Sam Brownlee reported that
the Council’s balance is $670.30 and
there were no expenses for the month of
December. He also reported that there
was no CHATS meeting this past month
and lastly, “While I’m running my
mouth,” he laughed, Brownlee thanked
Mayor Holtz of Seabrook Island for
writing a letter to the Charleston County
Sheriff’s Department requesting more
police coverage of Johns Island.
St. Johns Water Utility public
workshop
Council members Sam Brownlee and
Thomas Legare reported that St. Johns
Water Utility will be holding a public
workshop concerning the construction
of a new operations and maintenance
building on January 27 from 5:30pm -
7pm. “If you’re a customer of the water
company, we encourage you to come by,”
said Legare, noting that the meeting will
be a drop-in format.
Emerging concerns
Before introducing Congressman
Stavrinakis, Chairman Cannon stated
that he spoke with the SCDOT about
putting an “alternate merge” sign in at
the base of the Stono bridge where the
two lanes become one lane, but was told
that alternate merge signs are only used
www.islandconnectionnews.com
when two separate roads come together.
“But I was driving yesterday where two
lanes became one and saw a sign that says
‘alternate merge – when congested’,” said
Cannon.”I’ll be on the phone with him
tomorrow!”
Chat with Leon Stavrinakis
Leon Stavrinakis, House Representative
for District 119, Charleston County,
spent about an hour answering questions
posed by the Johns Island Council and
several island residents. Of greatest
concern during the meeting was the
issue of property taxes and point of sale
assessments. Stavrinakis remarked that
he personally has been affected by the
current structure, pointing out that the
value of his house has plummeted since
he purchased it in 2007, but his tax bill
showed an increase. When he brought
it up at the assessor’s office, Stavrinakis
stated that he was “blown away by their
attitude and their interpretation of state
law.” “They basically said that if I didn’t
like it, too bad,” said Stavrinakis. “So I’m
working on changing it.” He remarked
that governments across the United States
are starved for funds and many are using
point of sale assessments to increase the
tax base, even if the home’s value has
dropped. “There’s nothing in the law
that says they [the assessor’s office] can’t
use that price [the last price at which the
3
home was purchased] if it’s not the right
price anymore,” said Stavrinakis. “That
reassessment should be fair market value,
and in an abnormal market, we owe it
to people to be fair.” He also pointed
out that when a house is purchased in
Charleston County, it is automatically
given the 6% second home rate. “You
have to apply for the primary home 4%
rate,” said Stavrinakis.
His solution, he said, it to apply a
cap to the point of sale reassessment.
This would ensure that homeowners
and their neighbors’ taxes were not
entirely “out of whack”, and would
help prevent the complete gutting of
the real estate market. “If you bought
commercial property next to land that
had been owned for a while, you couldn’t
compete,” said Stavrinakis. “If you paid
$1 million and wanted to rent out offices,
and the guy next to you bought his
property several years ago for $250,000,
your rent is going to be substantially
higher than theirs. No one wanted to buy
commercial property based on that.”
Mayor Holtz of Seabrook Island stated
that he is concerned about the property
transfer tax, as much of Seabrook Island
is based on the influx of the transfer tax.
“I don’t want that to change,” said Holtz,
asking if the transfer tax was also being
JI Council continued on page 4
4 January 22, 2010
KI Council continued from page 2
was needed, but that there should be a
general agreement on Council.
Councilman McHugh reminded the
Council that there is some sensitivity to
the issue. “Kiawah has to be seen as a
participating member of the community,
and the Arts is a vehicle for bringing
people to our island.” However, he stated
that the proposal would provide a good
balance and will still keep the island
accessible to the larger community.
The Council agreed on the proposal
unanimously.
Arts Council
Councilman Lipuma went on to state
that the holiday concert with CSO
Concertmaster Yuriy Bekker was a
great success, with over 900 people in
attendance. “January will be a very busy
month,” he said, listing several upcoming
events, including the Charleston Ballet
performance “Would You Like to
Tango?” which will be held on Sunday,
January 24, at the East Beach Conference
Center, and the Women in Art Film
Series showing of the movie “Frida” on
February 5.
Bike path, parkway and public safety
“We’re getting closer and closer to
opening the bike path,” Councilman
Orban reported. The guardrail pieces
that the contractors were waiting on
should arrive by mid-January and the
Council hopes to have an official opening
before the end of January. He noted that
the frosty weather has not helped with
landscaping, but they are trying to put
in as much as they can so the trucks can
be moved out of the way of the bikepath.
“Just be patient and good things will
come,” said Orban.
Environmental committee
Councilman McHugh expressed how
impressed he was with the Environmental
Committee and how it’s wonderful
that it brings together so many groups
on Kiawah such as the Conservancy,
the Community Association and the
Property Owners Group. He reported
that Committee member Dave Achey has
been talking with KICA, and they are
continuing to look at landscaping plans
that are more “natural”, such as cutting
back on mowing to let plants grow
more naturally. “Achey is willing to help
property owners redesign landscaping
along those lines,” said McHugh. He
also noted that, in terms of technology,
the Community Association is currently
using satellites to help preserve water
through sprinkler control in the common
areas. “The information on how to
get this technology is also available to
property owners,” said McHugh. “I
thought it was pretty neat.”
Mayor Wert asked McHugh if he could
answer a question which seems to be a
“raging debate” on the islands. “When
temperatures drop below freezing, should
you water your plants to give them a
thin film of ice for protection or not?”
he asked. McHugh frowned and said “I
www.islandconnectionnews.com
can come down on both sides of that,”
he said. “If the plant is driven by cold
weather, I might ice it …”
“So you have no clue,” the Mayor
smiled. “Right,” McHugh laughed.
Councilman Lipuma interjected,
pointing out that in Florida, citrus
farmers are wetting down trees so the ice
film would protect what’s underneath.
“If you have begonias, forget it, they’re
dead,” said Lipuma, “but I would
sprinkle your plants; just don’t overdo it.”
External Affairs: Johns Island roads
Councilman Burnaford stated that he
and Dr. Paul Roberts have met with
several people concerning the Johns
Island Greenway since the Greenway
meeting on December 7, 2009. He
noted that Seabrook has given them a
great amount of support and that the
Town of Seabrook Island has created
their own Roads Committee headed by
Councilman Sam Reed, “So there’s a lot
of cooperation and meeting with different
groups,” said Burnaford. “It’s not a
‘Kiawah highway’.” He and Dr. Roberts
also met with the Mullet Hall equestrian
group about the horse trail option along
the side of the Greenway. “They seemed
to be for it and for tying their current
trails into the system,” said Burnaford.
As for the Greenway and widening
studies, Burnaford reported that they
should be finished in the next three
months. “This will give us the cost of
the Greenway, as well as the cost of
widening Bohicket and Main roads, so
we’ll have actual facts to work with,” he
said. On a disappointing note, Burnaford
remarked that County Councilman
Paul Thurmond will not be running for
his seat again at the end of the year (It
was later learned that Paul Thurmond is
running for Congressman Henry Brown’s
seat in the 2010 elections). Thurmond
has been a very strong advocate for
the Greenway, said Burnaford, and
he worked very hard with the County
Council to approve it.
Finally, Burnaford stated that he, Dr.
Roberts, Sam Reed and Paul Hyman met
with the Post and Courier concerning
recent articles about the Johns Island
JI Council continued from page 3
considered for change in the house bill.
Stavrinakis replied that he wasn’t sure,
but that there are always unintended
consequences when a large bill is passed,
either philosophically or by actually law.
“The people should be protected,” he
stated.
Greg Hollingsworth of Wadmalaw
Island asked if Stavrinakis supported
the Mark Clark Expressway and how
he stood with transportation means
across the island, to which Stavrinakis
replied that there is a clear need
for infrastructure improvement on
Johns Island, pointing out that the
people of Johns Island would do well
to get together and write up what
infrastructure improvements they could
deal with. As for I-526, Stavrinakis said
that it is absolutely needed. “We might
Greenway. “The Post and Courier is
not in support of a specific issue,” said
Mayor Wert. “We just thought the press
could be more positive. It took all of 48
hours to have another headline downing
Kiawah and Seabrook, however, so the
jury is still out on that talk.”
Town Administrator’s report
As Town Administrator Tumiko Rucker
has been out of the office due to surgery,
Town Clerk Cathy Wilson gave this
month’s report. Wilson stated that Town
business licenses expire at the end of
February, so renewals are currently being
sent out. She also noted that, though
it’s early, this is an election year for
the Town, so if anyone is interested in
working with the Election Commission,
please let the Town know by dropping by
Town Hall. Mayor Wert thanked Wilson
and gave her a “hearty round of thanks”
for successfully navigating the Town
through Christmas and New Years. He
also noted that Rucker is on the mend
and will be back by mid-January.
Mayor’s report
“My, how times have gotten better,”
said the Mayor. “We now have two
good Italian restaurants on the island:
Tomasso’s in Turtle Point, and La Tela in
Freshfields.” He also mentioned that last
month, he asked everyone on the island
to be generous over the holiday season,
“and so far, from all reports, we can all
be proud of what we’ve done,” he said.
“While donations are down, they are not
as down as they could be. I thank you
and please thank your friends who took
the time and money to donate.”
The next Kiawah Town Council meeting
will be held on February 2, 2010 at 2pm,
with a public hearing on ordinance 2010 –
01 just before the start of the meeting. Kiawah
Town Hall is located at 21 Beachwalker
Drive. For more info, call 786-9166.
not have done the same thirty years
ago, but it’s not your fault or mine that
growth has made it almost impossible
not to build 526.”
Finally, on the issue of education,
Stavrinakis stated that one of his biggest
jobs right now is “getting done what
needs to be done in the district.” The
Charleston County School District has
an impressive plan, he remarked, but
they need money to get it going. “We
need to set priorities for where we want
to spend money,” said Stavrinakis. “And
we need to educate, feed, and provide
safety. These are three things we need to
do in the long term for the economy.”
The next Johns Island Council meeting
will be held on Thursday, February 4,
at 7pm at Berkeley Electric Co-Op,
located at 3351 Maybank Hwy. For
more info, call Chairman Chris Cannon
at 343-5113.
January 22, 2010
Iran: The swing of the pendulum
T
he year was 1979. It was a tragic
year, with major repercussions
which are still felt today: the fall
of the Shah of Iran and the rise of the
Mullahs, the Iran hostage crisis, and the
Russian invasion of Afghanistan. One
year later, Iraq would invade Iran.
The Shahs
The year was 1921. A young Iranian
military officer overthrew the Qajar
Dynasty (1794 – 1921) by a coup d’etat.
His name was Reza Pahlavi and he was
proclaimed Shah in 1925. Progressive
and determined, he led Iran into the
twentieth century. In 1941, the British
and Russians deposed him because of his
pro German leanings. He was succeeded
by his son, Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, who
advanced his father’s policies. Roads and
schools were built. The rights of women
were improved considerably, especially
in education. He was very pro-west and
pro-America. These policies angered the
Mullahs. In cooperation with the British,
oil fields were explored and developed. Oil
made many Iranians wealthy, but many
also remained poor. Active resistance to
the Shah’s policies was on the rise. The
Mullahs aided and abetted the discontent.
The Shah created the Savak, a brutal secret
police force, to control the population. The
university students took to the streets; the
revolution began. The Shah was deposed
Op-Ed
The Island Curmudgeon
By William J. Duggan
in 1979. Ayatollah Khomeini returned to
Iran from exile. As Supreme Leader, he
established the rule of the Mullahs and
enforced Islamic law. The Shah went to the
U.S. for medical treatment. The American
embassy was stormed and hostages were
taken. The Shah went to Panama and then
to Egypt, where he died in 1980.
Iran/Iraq war
The year was 1980. Saddam Hussein
invaded Iran to claim Shatt al Arab, a
waterway to the Persian Gulf and a border
between Iraq and Iran proximate to the
Iranian oil fields. Khomeini and the
Revolutionary Guards pushed the Iraqi
back. This war lasted eight years. Iran was
supported by Egypt, Libya, North Korea
and China. Iraq was supported by Russia
and covertly by the U.S. because of the
hostage crisis. What strange bedfellows! In
1988, the U.N. enforced a peace between
Iran and Iraq. This eight year war would
result in one and a half million deaths to
both countries.
The swing of the pendulum
The year was 2005. Hashemi
Rafsanjani was defeated in the Iranian
presidential election by the Mayor of
Tehran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He was
in reality a puppet of the supreme leader,
Ayatollah Khamenei. Together, they used
the Revolutionary Guard and the police to
www.islandconnectionnews.com
control the population. In 1979, with the
fall of the Shah, Iran’s economy began to
slide under the Supreme Leader Khomeini
and today is in shambles. The people
are resisting the control of the Mullahs.
In 2009, Ahmadinejad was re-elected
as President of Iran. The election results
were tampered with and manipulated.
The opposition is still formidable.
The reformer and opposition leader,
Houssein Mousavi, claimed that fourteen
million ballots were not counted or were
destroyed. The protestors of the fraudulent
elections have taken to the streets. The
university students are in open rebellion.
Khamenei and Ahmadinejad are using
the police and Revolutionary Guard to
dispel the demonstrators. The police have
invaded several university dormitories to
beat, indiscriminately, male and female
students. The dissidents arrested so far are*:
Heshmat Tabarzadi, a democratic activist;
Ebrahim Yazdi, Secretary of the Freedom
Movement; Nushin Ebaldi and Morteza
Haji, both women’s rights activists; Emad
Baghi, A human rights activist; and
several aids to Mousavi. Khamenei and
Ahmadinejad are determined to silence
the opposition.
Iran is a dangerous country. It has
armed Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Hamas
in Gaza. Members of the Revolutionary
Guard have been captured or killed in
5
Iraq, fighting Iraqi and American troops.
The sophisticated road side bombs are the
product of Iran. It has become isolated
because of its efforts to build a nuclear
bomb. Ahmadinejad, using the words
of the first Supreme Leader, Khomeini,
publicly declared Iran was would wipe
Israel off the face of the earth.
The same conditions that brought
down the Shah in 1979 are present today.
The economy is in shambles. Social
unrest is on the rise with the university
students and the opposition taking to the
streets. On Wednesday, December 29,
2009, the Iranian police shot and killed
eight demonstrators, some of whom were
students. Iran is ripe for a regime change.
Why is America so aloof? It took a few
days for our vacationing President to decry
the deaths of the protestors. Our State
Department has said little or nothing
about the civil unrest. Who knows what
orders have been given to the CIA, if
indeed they have been given any. The big
question is: when will Israel strike?
*Note: the dissidents listed were
reported in the Wall Street Journal,
December 30, 2009.
William Duggan is a former political
columnist for the Palmetto Connection. He
can be reached at info@luckydognews.com
6 January 22, 2010

Have a healthy, green year with island CSAs

I
mprove your health, save money,
better the environment, support local
agriculture and expand your culinary
horizons. How? Join the Rosebank Farms
CSA!
Rosebank Farms is taking subscriptions
for their 2010 Community Supported
Agriculture (CSA) season. Now in its
second year, the farm’s program features
a variety of fresh, local produce and fruits
available in three 12-week seasons. New
this year, Rosebank is offering an annual
payment option which allows subscribers
to make a more convenient one-time
payment. Subscribers may still sign up
each season, but sign up early, as the
program is limited to 200 subscribers in
order to ensure the freshness and quality
of the produce.
Subscribers may choose from two
options:
Bag pick-up at locations in Charleston,
West Ashley, James Island and at the farm
for residents of Kiawah, Seabrook, and
Johns Island.
Deluxe box delivery for residents of the
downtown Charleston area, who receive
an even greater variety of produce than
the bag share. The produce is delivered
to their doorstep in a cooler-lined box for
freshness.
Subscribers receive enough in their bag
or box to make a entire recipe, so you will
never receive just one of anything. The
weekly share also includes a newsletter
written by Louise Bennett, co-owner
of Rosebank Farms, with farmer Sidi
Limehouse. The newsletter features
healthy recipes for that week’s produce.
Share sizes range from “small” for
singles or couples, to “large” for
bigger families and those who like to
can or freeze their fresh produce.
Large: $600 per season or $1,800 annual
Subscribers can also add 12-week shares
for fresh, seasonal flower bouquets ($96),
fresh eggs from the Rosebank chickens
($36 for one dozen/per week, $72 for
two dozen/per week), and local artisanal
Giddy Goat cheese handcrafted by Farrah
Hoffmire of Organic Process Productions.
Giddy Goat cheese is offered in a variety
of flavors (Pure Chevre, Crystallized
Ginger, Cracked Pepper Medley/Sea Salt,
Pimiento, and Herb Coated Chevre balls
marinated in Olive Oil) and are available
in two sizes: Small (4 oz.) for $50 and
Large (8 oz.) for $100.
Rosebank Farms is located at 4455 Betsy

Legare Farms Opens

Kerrison Parkway on Johns Island, just
Share prices are: before the Kiawah/Seabrook traffic circle.
Bag pick-up To subscribe, log on to www.rosebankfarms.

CSA Membership Small: $200 per season or $600

annual
Medium: $300 per season
com/CSA, email csa@rosebankfarms.com
or call 768-0508.
Legare Farms announces the opening of their Community Supported or $900 annual
Agriculture program to new members for the 2010 vegetable season. A Large: $400 per
CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a way for the community season or $1,200
to form a relationship with a local farm. This is the third year that Legare annual
Farms will be offering a CSA.  By making a financial commitment to
Deluxe Box
the farm, members help to pay for seeds, fertilizer, water, equipment
maintenance, labor, and other farm needs in advance. In return, the Delivery
farm provides, to the best of its ability, a healthy supply of seasonal The Box share contains
fresh produce throughout the growing season. Shareholders take a a greater variety of
risk along with the farmer on the crop. Farming is a risky business, produce than the bag share.
and so much depends on the weather. Becoming a member creates a Small: $360 per season or $1,080
responsible relationship between people and the food they eat, the land annual
on which it is grown and those who grow it. A weekly list of vegetables is Medium: $480 per season or $1,440
available, as well as recipes and suggestions for cooking and preserving annual
the vegetables.
Legare Farms’ CSA provides a half bushel of produce for a total of
15 weeks: nine weeks in the spring/summer and six weeks in the fall
with a mid summer break. The basket of produce may include tomatoes,
green beans, sweet corn, okra, squash, and radishes, as well as a variety
of other vegetables. Early spring and fall may include winter crops such
as collards, turnips, beets, onions, arugula, and lettuce. The produce
baskets are packed with whatever is ready to be picked that week. The
cost for the CSA season is $355.    
Legare Farms is a ninth generation family farm on Johns Island and
grows sod and nursery plants as well as vegetable crops.   The farm’s free
range eggs, hormone and antibiotic-free beef, pork, and poultry are not part
of the CSA, but may be purchased at the various CSA pickup locations each
week. A grower will be available at each location to answer any questions
that CSA members may have about their weekly delivery. For more info on
the CSA program, call Legare Farms at 559-0788 or e-mail legarefarms@
bellsouth.net

www.islandconnectionnews.com
January 22, 2010 7

“Congratulations, your dog is a father”

D
orothy Farfone was thrilled to announce this
year’s flower arrangement categories during
the Seabrook Garden Club’s January 8, 2010,
meeting. “Some of these I came up with at 2am,” she
laughed. The competition will be held on Friday, February
12, at 9:30am. However, due to a conflict in scheduling,
the meeting will be held at the SIPOA Community
Center on Oyster Catcher Road.
Categories for this year’s competition are as follows:
• Congratulations, your dog is a father.
• I’m sorry my fruitcake gave you food poisoning.
• Thank you for being so green.
• That was the most romantic night of my life,
thank you.
• Welcome to our island, from the Real Housewives
of Seabrook.
Judging this year’s competition will be Ernie Berger,
Fred Ristow and Tina Dear, and everyone is invited to
submit an arrangement.
Winter gardening tips
Because of the recent series of frosty mornings and
below average temperatures, SIPOA horticulturalist
Lindsey Zellner gave the Garden Club a handful of tips
on how to maintain their frozen gardens and lawns.
• Cut perennials and most soft body plants to grade
and cover with pine or leaf litter mulch.
• Cover weather sensitive trees and plants with bed
sheets, not plastic.
• Turn on irrigation or water plants in the early
evening to give them a protective layer of ice.
• Leave any “melted” dead leaves on plants until
mid-February when it should warm back up.
• Valentine’s Day is a great day to remember to
prune back your roses and grasses, as new shoots
should just be forming around that time.
Long term arrangements
Two speakers were featured at this month’s meeting,
and while 25 pre-registered members attended a Japanese
Flower Arranging presentation given by Dr. Robert
Earnest, the rest of the Club enjoyed a lesson on how to
preserve flower arrangements by Newton Farms’ head
florist, Tina Dear. Among her recommendations were
purchasing a flower hydration product called “Quick Dip”,
and being sure to clip the ends of your stems immediately
before putting them in water. “Strip, clip and dip,” smiled
Tina. “That’s the best way to remember how to make a
long lasting arrangement.” Stems should be cleaned of all
branches and leaves below the water level, clipped and
then dipped for a second or two in Quick Dip (available
through local florists such as Busy Bee, or through special
order at Newton Farms). Dear pointed out that the stems
of flowers will close as quickly as 30 seconds after they’ve
been clipped, so cutting should be done immediately
before the flowers are placed in the vase.
Another helpful tip for
arranging is the use of a
florist tape grid. Using ¼
inch clear florist tape, create
a grid on your vase. The tape
will help the flowers to stand
up straight and will also help
prevent leaves from falling into the water and causing it to
become murky. Dear also recommended dropping either
an aspirin or “Crystal Clear” plant food in the water as an
extra measure for long lasting blooms.
Finally, Dr. Robert Earnest’s presentation gave the
Garden Club a lot to think about in terms of the precise
art of Japanese flower arranging, or Ikebana. There
seems to be an almost endless list of rules for proper
arrangements, such as the fact that the numbers “4” and
“6” are taboo, but two groups of three are allowed. Dr.
Earnest showed the group how to make the simplest
arrangement, Elementary Style A, pointing out that the
“dynamic negative tension of empty space is essential.”
There must never be a single item, or only two items, in
an arrangement. At the same time, there must be three
lines, each a third higher than the last, all coming from
one specific point.
The ladies took to the assignment like fish to water,
however, and came up with some startlingly beautiful
arrangements.
The next Garden Club meeting will be held at the SIPOA
Community Center on Oyster Catcher Road on February
12, 2010, with socializing and coffee beginning at 9am and
the meeting beginning at 9:30am.

(above) Dr. Earnest demonstrates how to do a basic japanese floral arrangement. (below) Garden club
members try their hand at the arrangement.

www.islandconnectionnews.com
8 January 22, 2010
Friday, January 22 12:30pm. For more info, call 805-6930 or
visit www.ccpl.org.
Island Connec
Seabrook Island Natural History Group’s
Annual Soup Supper
5:30pm at the Island House. Bring a soup,
Be the first to drive an electric car January 22
The event will feature a dozen vehicles
chili, bread or dessert to share with your fellow for media and consumer test-drives on a islandalpha.com Saturday, Janu
SINHG members. For registration and more closed course, as well as interactive displays and
information, visit the web site at www.sinhg.org.  demonstrations, and the chance to win prizes, Thursday, January 28 Charleston County Libr
including the use of one of the vehicles for a week. Charleston County Public
Crab House Oyster Roast for Pet Helpers Documentary Garbage Dreams at County series of free performances
1600 Palmetto Grande Drive. Saturday from 11am
Join the Charleston Crab House at 145 Wappoo library 2010 season. All performa
- 5pm, and Sunday from noon – 5pm. For more
Creek Drive, James Island, from 6pm-9pm for a Shortlisted for the 2009 Academy Award “Best Charleston County Main
info, visit www.currentelectricvehicles.com.
fundraising oyster roast to benefit Pet Helpers. Feature Documentary”, Garbage Dreams goes Calhoun Street with high
Enjoy the fine food at the Charleston Crab House inside the world of Egypt’s Zaballeen (Arabic surround sound. Carmen
Sunday, January 24
with 100% of the proceeds going directly to Pet for ‘garbage people’) to reveal the lives of three For more info, call 805-69
Helpers. Call 795-1110 for more info.  Charleston Ballet Theatre presents: “Would you teenage boys born into the trash trade. 6:30pm at org.
like to Tango?” Charleston County Public Library (68 Calhoun
Saturday, January 23 Enjoy a very special ballet performance with live St.). For more info, visit www.ccpl.org. Sunday, Januar
classical guitar music. The first part will be a sexy
Roper Xavier (Rx) Society Annual Donor tango followed by feature guitarist, Fernando CSO Chamber Music Woodwinds 13th annual Our Lady o
Appreciation Gala Troche with a Spanish composition as the dancers Mark Gainer, head of the CSO Woodwind The Lucky 13th Auction t
Sanjay Gupta, MD, Chief Medical Correspondent perform around him.  Complimentary tickets are Chamber group, promises music that is sure to be Mercy Community Outre
for CNN, will be the featured speaker at the available at Kiawah Island Town Hall or by calling entertaining.  Complimentary tickets are available be held at the Mariott Ho
Gala to be held this year at the Charleston Place 768-9166. Show starts at 4pm at the East Beach at Kiawah Island Town Hall or by calling 768- Blvd in Charleston where
Hotel. The Lowcountry-themed menu for the Conference Center. Presented by the Town of 9166. The show starts at 7:30 pm at the Church plentiful.  Tickets are $75
evening will include a range of regional specialties. Kiawah Island Arts Council. of Our Saviour. Presented by the Town of Kiawah wine, Sunday dinner and
For more information or to join the Rx Society, Island Arts Council. auction with auctioneer ex
please contact the Roper St. Francis Foundation Tuesday, January 26 Warner of Carolina One R
at 843-720-1205, or visit our website at www. Tom Crawford of Channe
rsfhfoundation.org.   Winter Alpha Course
Dinner starts at 6pm at The
Charleston County Library presents: Der
Rosenkavalier
Church of Our Saviour (4416
Betsy Kerrison Pkwy.) and meets Ta k e a p a g e
Charleston County Public Library is continuing its each Tuesday through March 23. Johns Island R egional Library Card (adults/young adults) Tuesday, hot chocolate and
series of free performances from the Met’s 2009- Our topic will be “Who is Jesus?”. 3531 Maybank Highway January 26, 10am – 12pm games!
2010 season. All performances are shown in the Come and bring a friend for 559-1945
Charleston County Main Library Auditorium, 68 dinner, a talk, and discussion. For Hours: *All computer classes are free. For Displays
more info or to register, call 843- Monday – Thursday: 10 – 8 more information please call 559- Martin Luther K
Calhoun Street with high-definition video and 7.1
768-2046 or visit our website www. Friday & Saturday: 10 – 6 1945 and ask for the Reference January 1 – 31
surround sound. Der Rosenkavalier will begin at Sunday: 2 – 5 Department. Class space is available In honor of Dr. M
for 8 participants per session. King, Jr.’s birthday
Wee Reads (under 24 months with library materials a
adult)Mondays, January 25 at Celebrate MLK Jr.’s Birthday the civil rights mo
10:30am (11 years and younger) Every day
  in January. Make a birthday card Photographs and
Time for Twos (2 – 3 years old for Dr. King that will be displayed January 1 - 31
with adult)Tuesdays, January 26 at in February for African American Margaret Ambros
10:30am History Month. display her photog
  lighthouses and se
Preschool Storytime (3 – 6 NEW! Tween Tech Time (Ages along with her sea
years)Wednesdays, January 27 at 10-13)Wednesdays, January 13, 20,  
10:30am 27 from 3 – 5pm. Two sessions are Knitting Display
  available and space is limited to 8 January 1 - 31
Saturday Family Storytime (all students per session. Anita Sloane will 
ages)Saturdays, January 9, 16, 23, knitted duck she m
30 at 11am Family Game Time (all ages). the library’s knitti
Saturday, January 23 at 2pm. sessions, together
Publisher: Create a Greeting Come on in and warm up with knitted hats and s

www.islandconnectionnews.com

ction Calendar
- February 12
uary 30
rary presents: Carmen
c Library is continuing its
s from the Met’s 2009-
ances are shown in the
Library Auditorium, 68
h-definition video and 7.1
will begin at 1:30pm.
930 or visit www.ccpl.
ry 31
of Mercy Auction
to benefit Our Lady of
each on Johns Island will
otel at 170 Lockwood
free parking is
5 and include appetizers,
a live and silent
xtraordinaire Doug
Real Estate assisted by
el 4.  Starting at 1pm. 
play some board
King, Jr. Display
Martin Luther
y, we will display
about his life and
ovement.
d Taxidermy
se Holst will
graphs of
eashore scenes
a life taxidermy.
y Refuge
 present the
made during
ing group
with a variety of
scarves.
For reservations, call 559-4109.  Sunday, February 7
Lowcountry Oyster Festival
Grilling up more than 65,000 pounds of oysters
and attracting some 10,000 hungry visitors, the
festival will offer a wide variety of activities such
as live entertainment, the famous oyster shucking
and oyster eating contests and even a best-dressed
oyster contest for kids. Oysters will be sold by
the bucket so guests should bring an appetite! For
more information, please call 805-3084 or visit
www.charlestonrestaurantassociation.com
Tuesday, February 2
Groundhog Day
Thursday, February 4
Drawing classes with Bob LeFevre
Attention artists or wanna be artists! For 4 to
6 consecutive Thursdays, Bob LeFevre will
be holding special drawing classes in the art/
photography room at the Lake House. Classes will
be held from 1pm to 3 or 4pm. Supplies to bring:
a drawing pad: 14”x17”, or 16’X20’ (better), or
18”x24” (best); drawing pencils #3, #4 or #5 or
pure graphite (best); and a kneaded eraser. www.
lefevrepaintings.com
Friday, February 5
Women in Art Film Series Part 2 “Frida “
Nominated for six Academy Awards, “Frida”
follows the life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo
(1907-1954). Learn how Frida lived a bold and
uncompromising life as political, artistic, and
sexual revolutionary, and became an art world
icon. 2pm at the Sandcastle. Sponsored by the
Kiawah Arts Council. Tickets available at Kiawah
Town Hall starting January 22, 2010. For more
info, call 768-9166.
Saturday, February 6
Birding Trips: Savannah National Wildlife
The marshes, forests, and impoundments of the
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge provide
incredible wildlife viewing.  Perry Nugent will lead
this quest to find Canvasbacks, Redheads, Ring-
necked Ducks, and more. Pre-registration required.
January 22, 2010 9
7am – 4pm. Group meets at Caw Caw
Interpretive Center. Course # 21615. Fee:
artists; educational live animal shows; outdoor
outfitters; sporting arms; antique decoys; and
$21/$17 CCR Discount. 795-4386 /
www.ccprc.com.
children’s activities. In 2010, SEWE will welcome
special guest Jack Hanna. Tickets start at $10 per
person and VIP packages are available. For more
information, please call 723-1748 or visit www.
sewe.com.
Super Bowl Sunday  
CSO Spiritual Ensemble
Monday, February 8 Nathan L. Nelson leads the Charleston Symphony
Orchestra Spiritual Ensemble, a 35-voice group,
Boy Scout Day – celebrating 100 years of
in a new program entitled Spiritual Masterworks,
scouting!
which highlights the importance of spiritual
Wednesday, February 10 songs and their significance to the South Carolina
Lowcountry. 7pm at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.
Chinese New Year Tickets are available at Kiawah Island Town Hall,
Indigo Books, Johns Island Public Library or
Recital by Mark Gainer and Taisiya Pushkar the Holy Spirit Catholic Church office complex
Don’t miss a very special recital with Oboist located at 3730 Bohicket Road, Suite 3, Johns
Mark Gainer and pianist Taisiya Pushkar, as they
Island, Monday-Friday, 8am-3pm.  Sponsored
present pieces from Schumann, Chopin, Poulenc by the Town of Kiawah Island Arts Council. For
and Sammartini.  7:30pm at the Church of Our
more info, call 786-9166.
Saviour. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island
Arts Council. Tickets available at Kiawah Island
Seabrook brown and white recycling
Town Hall starting January 27, 2010. For more Brown and white goods (furniture, appliances,
info, call 768-9166.
etc.) will be picked up curbside, and hazardous
waste (paint, batteries, fluorescent lightbulbs, etc.)
Friday, February 12 will be collected at the maintenance facility.
The 23rd Annual Seabrook Arts and Crafts
Seabrook Newcomers Party
Show
from 5-7pm at the Lake House. All Seabrook
Drop by the Lake House to view excellent art
residents who have purchased property in the
work and local handmade crafts for sale. Friday,
past year are invited to come out and meet their
February 12, from 2 – 5pm, followed by a Meet
new neighbors, as well as learn about the many
the Artists reception from 7pm – 9pm. Saturday,
activities available around the island. To attend,
Febraury 13, from 10:30am – 5pm and Sunday,
RSVP by February 5 by calling Patty DeGregorio
February 14, from 11am – 2pm.
at 768-4461 or Sue Ciancio at 768-4214.
                                      
Southeastern
Wildlife
Exposition
February 12-
14, 2010. The
Southeastern
Wildlife
Exposition
(SEWE) is the
largest wildlife art
and nature event
in the nation.
Taking place the
weekend before
President’s Day,
SEWE will offer
original art by 120
www.islandconnectionnews.com
 As IVes sees it

Head on a swivel
By Dwight S. Ives

D
espite the White House party
crashers blunder, the US Secret
Service consists of some of the
most highly trained and experienced
personnel in the world. Having had the
honor to work periodically  with  some of
these wonderful people over the past 30
years, I have had the rare opportunity to
“talk shop” with quite a few of them.
Agents sometimes refer to themselves
as heads on a swivel since they are ever
alert of their environment, while at the
same time striving to blend in as an “every
day Joe”. Their teams are so inconspicuous
that advance teams frequently come and
go unnoticed for weeks in advance of a
security event.
Most agents are in their thirties or
forties and have had prior military service
and/or extensive police training before
being tested for the job.  They spend
almost a year in advanced training before
becoming active.
Never assume  you can identify an
agent from a non-agent.  The obvious ones
are in suits, heavily armed, and extremely
well trained: the crème de la crème. Only
a small contingency of agents are visible
at any time.  Once, while meeting with
White House staff, I made a comment
about a barfly-type downstairs. Everyone
laughed and said, “Oh, you met George.
He’s with us (Secret Service). “
On another occasion, a friend of mine
who works as an electrical technician was
assigned to guard a critical spotlight.  It
had to remain on at all times during the
visit of a world leader. When the event
was over, he received the shock of his life
when an agent walked in front of him
and blinked a blue laser light. Instantly,
a twinkling of blue lights flashed in the
crowd and he saw several heavily armed
men move their automatic weapons away
from his direction.  He never knew they
were there.
Dwight graduated from the National
College Republican Fieldman School to
become a political instructor/consultant. 
Returning from Washington, DC, he earned
dual Masters in Business Administration
and Management.  Dwight works Security
on Kiawah Island for KICA.

Seabrook
Newcomers party
S
eabrook residents who have purchased property in the past year or have
not been able to attend a past Newcomers Party are invited to this year’s
Seabrook Newcomers Party on Friday, February 12, 2010. The event
will be held during Seabrook’s annual meeting weekend from 5 – 7pm at the
Lake House (2319 Seabrook Island Road) in the Osprey Room. This is a great
opportunity to meet new friends, learn about the many activities available on
the island and to learn about the many volunteer opportunities available in the
community. If you would like to attend, please RSVP by February 5, 2010.
If you have any questions, or to RSVP, contact the Newcomers Hospitality
Committee: Patty DeGregorio at 768-4461 or Sue Ciancio at 768-4214.

www.islandconnectionnews.com
January 22, 2010
C
an you knit or crochet? Do you have
a few hours to do something for our
men and women serving across seas?
If so, then the Hats 4 Heroes program needs
you. Started by the Daughters of the American
Revolution (DAR) in Florence, South Carolina,
Hats 4 Heroes was created by chapter regent
Kathy Davis in an effort to send a knit cap, hat or beanie
to every South Carolinian sent to Afghanistan and Iraq.
Since the project began, Hats 4 Heroes has expanded its
contributors beyond DAR members and knit caps are
being sent to soldiers from several other states. Local
groups such as the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady of Mercy,
individuals who have no previous knitting experience,
and mothers, sisters and grandmothers of servicemen
have all contributed to the more than 8600 hats which
DAR has sent overseas. These hats are greatly appreciated
by the troops, keeping their heads warm in cold weather,
preventing sand from getting into their mouths and noses
in the desert and even they make wearing a helmet a little
more comfortable. Every hat is sent with a hand-written
note that tells the soldier that he or she is appreciated and
11
email at eburnaford@bellsouth.net. Yarn must be
4 Heros
100% wool. Any color is allowed, but the troops
like the camouflage best. Yarn and patterns are
Hats
also available at It’s A Stitch, 3464 Maybank
Highway, Johns Island. The owners are offering
supplies at cost for use in this project. To reach
thought about by someone in the United States, along them, call 557-0401.
with a small bag of M&Ms (the only candy that won’t Let’s show our men and women across seas
melt before it reaches the men). that we are thinking of them!
If you don’t knit, you can still help
by contributing to the cost of postage,
candy, or yarn. If you would like to
knit, patterns and a limited supply of
yarn are available from Ellie Burnaford,
who is coordinating this effort for the
Eliza Lucas Pinckney Chapter of the
Daughters of the American Revolution.
She can be reached at 768-8607, or by
www.islandconnectionnews.com
12
A chorus of frogs to bring in the New Year
I
woke to a cold, damp, and cloud-
covered New Year’s Day this year. By
eight o’clock I had my one year old
son, Dylan, sufficiently bundled up and
in a stroller: we were off to greet the day
with a good long walk. The chirps and
chatter of cardinals, chick-a-dees, and
warblers distracted me, drawing me in
to nature’s beauty. As I neared a wooded
wetland, I was delighted to hear a choir of
chorus frogs bellowed out. I smiled and
we stopped to listen. The sound of chorus
frogs brings to mind the sound of a comb
as a finger running the length of its teeth.
Maybe that’s how it was first described to
me, but the similarity is striking. I could
see my breath clouding in front of me
as I stood and listened, and suddenly I
remembered that it was the dead of winter.
Why were these frogs singing?
Frogs in the Lowcountry do go dormant
during our colder months, but unlike their
amphibian relatives to the north, they
rarely go into true winter hibernation.
Hibernation is a common response to the
cold winter of temperate climates, but our
cool winters and hot, humid summers
classify the Lowcountry as a subtropical
climate. In response to these mild but
unpredictable winter temperatures, frogs
and toads in our area have their own
strategies for survival.
As temperatures drop, aquatic frogs
January 22, 2010
Daily Discoveries:
By Jennifer Barbour
such as the leopard frog (Rana pipiens) and glucose create an antifreeze effect in their (Pseudacris nigrita), they breed in winter,
American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) take vital organs, keeping them from freezing keeping them active throughout our
a dip in the water. Oxygen-rich water allows completely. ‘Frigid’ frogs and toads will cooler months, especially during warmer
them to absorb needed oxygen through stop breathing, and with that last breath, rains. Usually found near shallow bodies
their skin while they’re underwater. their hearts stop beating; yet they will of water, they can be heard singing both
They’ll spend a good portion of their time come back to life as the temperatures by day and night. Next time your winter
during cooler months at the bottom of a rise above freezing, their body thawing walk takes you near a freshwater wetland,
pond, ditch, or other freshwater wetland, perfectly. keep your ears open for their joyous croons
lying on the mud or partially buried in it. As for my serenading chorus frogs and croaks.
The Spadefoot (Scaphiopus holbrookii) and
About the Author: Jennifer is a Naturalist
Southern Toad (Bufo terrestris), PHOTO BY JD Willson
with the Kiawah Island Nature Program.
as well as other terrestrial frogs
To contact her with comments or personal
proficient at digging, will create
stories, email her at Jennifer_Barbour@
their winter living space (called
kiawahresort.com.
a hibernaculum) by excavating
a burrow deep into the soil. PHOTO BY Jamie Rood
Treefrogs (Hylidae family) and
other species not adept at digging
seek out crevices and hollows of
shelter found throughout their
natural environment. Nooks and
crannies of palmetto leaf bases and
excavated cavities made by other
creatures are good places to look
for these frogs.
While many different techniques
are used by various species, all
amphibians have the same general
response to cold weather. Their
metabolism dramatically slows
down. In freezing temperatures, (above) A Southern Chorus Frog catches some
ice crystals will form in their sun. (right) Spadefoot toads are very adept to
body cavity, bladder, and under digging.
the skin. High concentrations of
www.islandconnectionnews.com
January 22, 2010 13
In the Cottage itself, a secret second

Winter Plant Searches

Cottage continued from cover
In terms of their products, Eryn is
thrilled that the Cottage is so close to
By Nick Strehle the Lab. “It’s great, their products are
floor conceals a private suite, ideal for a
bride or bridesmaids on the night before
the wedding, a couple on a luxurious
retreat, or someone simply looking to

T
here’s not too much growing species and varieties. all organic and if I run out, I just call envelop themselves in a full night and day
in the garden or landscape next door and ask for more,” she smiled. of relaxation.
While the air is still crisp and
“We’re all healers here and we genuinely
this time of year, and many the plants almost dormant, this is a Services at Cottage Aroma Bella range
care about what we do. The possibilities
Lowcountry residents are already wonderful time to plan and get your from facials to pedicures in a custom-made
are endless. Often, what one thinks is an
hoping that spring will arrive sooner spring projects scheduled. The spring solid oak and marble foot tub throne, to
incredible request is usually very easy to
rather than later. But rather than be is a very busy time of year, so plan on full body and specific-needs massages,
take care of.”
in the dumps about a particularly waiting three to four weeks for work waxing, and even face, hand and foot
As with any old English cottage, the services for children.
chilly winter, residents should learn to begin if you plan on working with house is also harboring its share of secrets.
how they can use their winter garden a well respected landscaping service. A hidden garden can be found tucked Cottage Aroma Bella will hold its grand
time wisely. For all of us plant nerds, Happy plant hunting and schedule behind the building, a pair of antique opening this spring, but is currently open for
winter is a wonderful time to search soon. French doors opening from the main business Monday – Saturday from 10am
out new plants to try in the spring and building through a light screen of climbing – 6pm. Look for the official grand opening
Nick Strehle is a Purdue University celebration date in future editions of the
summer. I understand not all of us ivy into a small marble courtyard. During
Agronomy Major, certified irrigation Island Connection. For more information,
can spend their days searching all over the spring, summer and early fall, the
contractor and EPA WaterSense visit www.cottagearomabella.com. For more
the world for the perfect plant, but petite cloister is ensconced in vibrantly
Partner for Sunburst Landscaping Inc., information about Royal Labs and their
this will be your cheapest and most blooming vegetation, creating the perfect
leading Sunburst’s clients into the next product lines Aroma Bella and Deep Steep,
efficient plant search ever. place to wind down and breathe in the
generation of water management. For surrounding beauty. visit www.royallabs.com.
Many of the dirt trails I follow
more information, contact Sunburst at
lead to wholesale nurseries, but I
768-2434.
still enjoy ordering a free catalog
from a retail nursery every once in
a while. They have
wonderful pictures
and background
information to assist
in your decision
making process. The
two I enjoy the most (l to r)
Owner Peggy
are Plant Delights
Liever, Eryn
Nursery Inc. (www. Groh, Tracy
plantdelights.com or Simmons
call 919-772-4794) and Angel
and Wayside Gardens McCaskill.
(www.waysidegardens.
com or call 800-213-
0379).
Both of these
nurseries have been
around for a long
time and take pride
in shipping plants
safely. Once these
sources have filled
your daily need for
plant information, you
might want to look
into Monrovia (www.
monrovia.com). In my
opinion, they are one
of the best nurseries
for introducing new
Now is the time to plan your spring garden.

www.islandconnectionnews.com
14 January 22, 2010

February
Kiawah Arts events 
The Kiawah Island Arts Council is continuing its amazing winter arts season with
some incredible performances and presentations during the month of February. All
events are open to the public and tickets are available at Kiawah Town Hall. Please
refer to individual events to find out when tickets will become available. For more
information, call Kiawah Town Hall at 768-9166 or visit www.kiawahisland.org. All
events are sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island Arts Council. KI Town Hall is
located before the KI gates at 21 Beachwalker Drive.
Women in Art Film Series Part 2 “Frida “
Friday, February 5, 2010: 2pm at the Sandcastle
Nominated for six Academy Awards, “Frida” follows the life of Mexican artist Frida
Kahlo (1907-1954) through her experience with polio, a serious bus accident which
left her with chronic and agonizing pain, a difficult marriage and miscarriages, as
well as a torrid affair with Leon Trotsky and several romantic entanglements with
various women, and how she used these experiences to inspire her brilliant works.
Learn how Frida lived a bold and uncompromising life as political, artistic, and sexual
revolutionary, and became an art world icon.
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning January 22, 2010.
Recital by Mark Gainer and Taisiya Pushkar
Wednesday, February 10, 2010: 7:30pm at Church of Our Saviour
Don’t miss a very special recital with Mark Gainer, Principal Oboist with the
Charleston Symphony Orchestra, and pianist Taisiya Pushkar, as they present their
New York summer program at Church of Our Saviour. The recital will include pieces
from Schumann, Chopin, Poulenc and Sammartini. Mark Gainer is in his twenty-
sixth season with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, and has been a featured soloist
with the CSO on numerous occasions.  Taisiya Pushkar is an active chamber musician
and has performed in Belgrade, Helsinki, Italy, Israel , as well as various cities across
the United States. Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island Arts Council.
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning January 27, 2010.
CSO Spiritual Ensemble
Friday, February 12: 7pm at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.
Nathan L. Nelson leads the Charleston Symphony Orchestra Spiritual Ensemble in
a new program entitled Spiritual Masterworks, which highlights the importance of
spiritual songs and their significance to the South Carolina Lowcountry. The CSO
Spiritual Ensemble is a 35-voice group focusing on African-American spirituals
formed during South Carolina’s plantation days. Come experience the ensemble that
has delighted sold-out crowds for more than a year. Tickets are available on a first-
come, first-serve basis (four tickets per person maximum). Tickets may be picked up in
advance at: Kiawah Island Town Hall, Indigo Books, Johns Island Public Library or
the Holy Spirit Catholic Church office complex located at 3730 Bohicket Road, Suite
3, Johns Island, Monday-Friday, 8am-3pm.  Sponsored by the Town of Kiawah Island
Arts Council.
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning January 22, 2010.
Andrew Thielen Big Band
Sunday, February 21: 7:30pm at E.B. Conference Center
Back by popular demand, the Andrew Thielen Big Band is returning to Kiawah with
a wide selection of tunes from Glenn Miller to Aretha Franklin, as well as swing,
rock, disco and Motown classics. The Andrew Thielen Big Band will get everyone on
the dance floor with great singers, fantastic horns, loads of energy, and a world class
drummer. Andrew Thielen is one of today’s greatest big band drummers and has
played in drum battles with Louie Bellson and Ed Shaugnnessy of the Tonight Show
fame. This fantastic band has been the band of choice for Planet Hollywood, House
of Blues, Hilton Head, the Greenbrier, Ritz Carlton, Charleston Place, the Kentucky
Derby gala and a PBS TV show.
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning February 5, 2010.
Chinese New Year
Saturday, February 27: 4 pm at the Sandcastle   
Celebrate the year of the Tiger with a performance by Chee Hang See, accomplished
piano student at the College of Charleston, as he plays the erhu and piano.  The erhu
is a two stringed instrument which sounds similar to the human voice and can imitate
many natural sounds, such as birds and horses.  It is well known its melancholic tune. 
From Singapore, Chee Hang has performed in Piccolo Spoleto’s Young Artist Series,
the Music Fest in Perugia and in Spoleto, Italy.  Gung Hay Fat Choy (Happy New
Year)!
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning February 12, 2010.an
Charleston Ballet Theater performing Magical Mystery Tour
Sunday, February 28: 4pm at EB Conference Center  
A Beatles dance and music extravaganza, this celebrated CBT classic, choreographed
by Jill Eathorne Bahr, is a rollicking journey through the songbook of the Fab Four,
the most influential band of the 20th century. Featuring an array of Beatles classics
from “Help” and “Drive My Car”, to “Yellow Submarine”, it’s a colorful throwback to
a memorable era in an event which is certain to be the talk of the town.
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning February 12, 2010.

Amori Vini “For the Love of Wine”

Thursday, February 18: 5pm at the Sandcastle ($12 per ticket) 
Join in an interactive wine tasting first presented to rave reviews during last year’s
Piccolo Spoleto, with string quartet music led by Charleston Symphony Orchestra
Concertmaster Yuri Bekker and Natalia Khoma.  Classical composer Ed Hart will
discuss the musical selections while Debbie Marlowe of The Wine Shop presents a
variety of fine wines to accompany the performance pieces. A selection of cheeses from
Avondale Wine and Cheese will also be paired with the wine selections.  Seating is
limited.  Ticket price of $12 pays for the wine and cheese. 
Tickets available at Kiawah Island Town Hall beginning February 4, 2010.

Cabinets & countertops for

new construction and renovations
843-388-9633
630-B Johnnie Dodds Blvd  Mount Pleasant
www.meverskitchens.com
Certified Member

www.islandconnectionnews.com
January 22, 2010
New year to volunteer
K
iawah Island hosted its first annual
Volunteer Fair at the Sandcastle
this past Thursday, January 14.
Spearheaded by Red Cross volunteer and
Kiawah Island resident Judy Sperling-
Newton, the fair was very well attended,
with 24 local volunteer organizations
represented. The Fair kicked off with an
instructional talk by Sally Burnett of Trident
United Way, who gave several tips on how
to find a volunteer organization that was
a good fit for you, and how to learn about
other organizations in need of volunteers.
Trident United Way not only offers a full
online directory of volunteer opportunities
at www.tuw.org, but they have recently
established their “211” hotline, which,
by calling 211 from any phone, will give
you the contact information for volunteer
organizations throughout the tri-country
area.
While enjoying complimentary wine and
hors d’ oeuvres, attendees spent the rest
of the two hour hour perusing the various
volunteer booths.
Volunteer organizations present
at the Fair included:
Our Lady of Mercy
Our Lady of Mercy is looking for mentors
for school-aged children, as well as
English as a Second Language teachers/
mentors, and people to help with food
and clothing distribution. For more
information, visit www.olmoutreach.org
or call Claire Bergstrom at 559-4109.
Shirley with the SC
Aquarium
South Carolina Aquarium
The Aquarium is looking for volunteers
to work with the touch tank, in the turtle
hospital, help prepare meals, clean tanks,
assist the veterinarians and work with
visiting children. For more info, visit
www.scaquarium.org or call 579-8553.
Lowcountry Red Cross
The Red Cross is always in need of
volunteers and blood donors (they are
running particularly low on O negative
and B negative blood), and they are
currently introducing their new volunteer
15
program, “Ready When the Time various local organizations, as well as
Comes”. The program asks for only four annually raise funds for local charities
hours of training and for the volunteer through sales for the Kiawah-Seabrook
to be prepared to help for just one day in phonebook.
the event of an emergency. For more info, For a complete list of volunteer
visit www.lowcountryredcross.org or call organizations from the fair, along with
Nancy Olson at 764-2323 ex. 321.
contact information, call the Kiawah
Sandcastle at 768-3875.
Water Missions International
Water Missions is looking for local
volunteers to help with various outreach
projects, including the Mission’s
upcoming Walk for Water on Saturday,
March 20. For more information, visit
www. watermissions.org, or call Kelly
Lewis at 769-7395.
Barrier Island Free Medical Clinic
BIFMC is in desperate need of Spanish Habitat for Humanity
interpreters, as well as nurses and general Will Lehder, Frank Carrese and Laurie Burpee of
volunteers to help with patient sign-in, the Kiawah/Seabrook Exchange Club.
filing, answering the phone, data entry,
etc. For more information, visit www.
bifmc.org, or call Eugenia Beach at 810-
3333.
Charleston County School District
The CCSD is always in need of mentors
and in-school volunteers. For more
information, call 937-6506.
Communities in Schools
Communities in Schools needs mentors,
career speakers, tutors, and classroom
assistants in several area schools, including
St. Johns High School, Haut Gap Middle Kiawah Island Turtle Patrol
School, Angel Oak Elementary and
Edith Frierson Elementary. For more
information visit www.cischarleston.org
or call Jennifer Bridges at 559-4500.
Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding
CATR is located near Mullet Hall
Plantation and is in need of people to
both lead horses and to side walk while
students are riding. For more information,
visit www.catrfarms.org, or call 559-6040.
Kiawah Island Community Association
KICA is looking for volunteers to help
with nature trail cleanup, as well as
volunteers for the Painted Bunting
Ball and the Bobcat Ball. For more
information, call Maggie Hawkins at
768-9194.
Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club
The Exchange Club works with
Kelly Scott with Water Missions International
www.islandconnectionnews.com