Since May 2007
PRESORT STANDARD
Volume 12 Issue 14 FREE
Participants in the 2017 Veteran’s Day Charitable Golf Tournament.
Seabrook Island Veteran’s Day
Charitable Golf Event
BY ALAN ARMSTRONG
For The Island Connection
T
he Seabrook Island Club and the
Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club
will be holding its 7th Annual
Veteran’s Day charitable golf outing on
Monday, Nov. 12 to honor veterans who
have served the country and raise money
to support the Ralph Johnson Veteran’s
Hospital and Fisher House.
The event will be a captain’s choice
scramble format beginning with a
9:30 a.m. shotgun start. Teams will be
flighted for awards based on total team
handicap. There will be pizza and drinks
in the clubhouse after play is completed.
All Lowcountry residents are invited
to participate. Team and individual
The 2017 event raised $7,500 for the VA registrations are welcomed. Wounded
Hospital. Warriors will be participating.
Dogtoberfest Roadtrips Charleston
Page 5 Page 9
October 12, 2018
The entry fee for Seabrook Island
Club members is $70 plus cart fee. For
non-club members, the fee is $120.
$50 of the entry fee will be set aside as
a charitable contribution to the Ralph
Johnson Veteran’s Hospital and Fisher
House. You may register for the event by
calling the Seabrook Island Golf Shop
at 843.768.2529 or sending an email to
golf@discoverseabrook.com.
If you cannot play in the event but
would like to make a contribution, you
can send a check to Alan Armstrong,
2427 Golf Oak Park, Seabrook Island, SC
29455. Checks should be made payable to
the Fisher House or the Ralph H. Johnson
Veteran’s Hospital.
If you have any questions, please call
Alan Armstrong at 843.768.9252.
US POSTAGE PAID
CHARLESTON SC
POSTAL PATRON
PERMIT NO 437
Bluegrass
& Barbecue
at Harvest
Festival
C O U N T Y PA R K
FA M I LY- F R I E N D LY
F E S T I VA L N O V. 3
BY SARAH REYNOLDS
For Island Connection
C
harleston County Parks is once
again hosting a traditional
Southern fall shindig. The 17th
Annual Harvest Festival is set for
Saturday, Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at
Johns Island County Park.
The Harvest Festival is perhaps known
best for its foot-stompin’ showcase
of Charleston’s own bluegrass talent.
Performing throughout the day will be
five bluegrass bands. This year’s lineup
will feature entertainment from local
performers Roger Bellow and the Drifting
Troubadours, Marshgrass Mamas, Gravel
Road, Yee Haw Junction and River Boy.
No Harvest Festival is complete
without a feast. Plenty of food will
be available for purchase, including
Southern barbecue, roasted and boiled
peanuts, kettle korn, and traditional
favorite festival fare, plus cold beverages.
After feasting and dancing, festival-goers
are invited to stop by the festival crafters’
market to get a jump on holiday shopping.
Families will find plenty to keep the kids
occupied including hay rides, a stick pony
corral, pumpkin decorating, penny diving
and more. This year’s Harvest Festival will
also feature a youth Archery Turkey Day
Shoot! Turkeys will not be harmed in this
competition, but the winning archer will
take home a frozen turkey. The showdown
is open to ages 8-17, and turkeys will be
image011.jpgawarded to the male and
female competitor with the highest score.
Interested competitors can sign up at the
Harvest Festival continues on page 6
On The Water
Page 11
2 October 12, 2018
civic

Kiawah Island Town Council

M E E T I N G O C T. 2
Lynn Pierotti
publisher
BY KATY CALLOWAY
The Island Connection Managing Editor
lynn@luckydognews.com

T
he first meeting of the fall season
Katy Calloway was called to order a questionable
managing editor three minutes ahead of time, after
katy@luckydognews.com Mayor Weaver questioned the accuracy
of the clock. The September meeting
Jennifer Tuohy minutes were approved unanimously,
following Councilmember Mezzanotte’s
contributing editor admitting to already sending in a few
jennifer@luckydognews.com “wordsmithing” changes to Town Clerk
Petra Reynolds.
Alejandro Ferreyros Mayor Weaver opened business with
senior graphic designer a few updates, including information on
alejandro@luckydognews.com the Lowcountry Mayor’s Disaster Relief
Fund, created to help citizens in North
and South Carolina impacted by the
Lori McGee storm. Donations are currently being
sales manager accepted through the Coastal Community
lori@luckydognews.com Foundation.
He announced the Fall Back to Kiawah
Carla Foxworth event happening Oct. 4 as an opportunity
for residents to come and see the beautiful
sales executive
Town Hall and enjoy good weather.
carla@luckydognews.com
Citizen’s Comments hosted Wendy
Kulick at the podium, who urged folks
Senior Staff Writer to visit Atlanta, where she and her family
Gregg Bragg evacuated to during Hurricane Florence,
adding that people could not have been
Contributors more hospitable.
David DeStefano then discussed the
Alan Armstrong
process of meeting notice. DeStefano
Sarah Reynolds chairs the Public Works Committee and
David Savard was disappointed in the late notice of the
Stephanie Braswell last special meeting of his committee.
Leah Burris DeStefano received notice merely an hour
and a half before the meeting was set to
Carol Antman
begin.
Arielle Alpino
There was a presentation by Emily
Dimi Matouchev
Sobczak of Greene Finney LLP on the
Geoff Bennett annual financial audit. She opened by
describing the ongoing process of internal
controls that the Town uses throughout
the year and decribed her agency’s role in
evaluating these processes and suggesting
improvements. Greene, Finney issued a
“clean” opinion that describes the year’s
financial information as correct and
accurate.
At year’s end, (Kiawah’s fiscal year
ends June 30) there was an available
fund balance of $8 million, an increase
of $1.2 million from the prior year.
$115,000 was classified as non-spendable,
having already been allocated for services
rendered in 2019, leaving an unassigned
fund balance of $7.9 million, or 160% of
the 2019 budgeted expenditures, which
Sobczak described as “very good financial
condition.”
Business licenses, building permits
and court fines brought in more revenue
than expected last year contributing to
an 11% increase over what was budgeted,
for a total of $5.9 million in journal
revenues. Investment returns were also
very successful.
Expenditures totaled $5.1 million,
$120,000 over budget, primarily a result
of Hurricane Irma clean up expenses.
This total was 3% less than the prior year,
which reflected a more expensive clean up
from Hurricane Matthew.
There were no significant
recommendations from Greene Finney,
which Sobczak credited to “management
[working] very hard to make improvements
and continue to improve processes and to
remain diligent in maintaining effective
internal controls for the Town.” Good
news following a few “shaky” years.
Mayor Weaver commented on the
myriad of changes that have been made
to financial activities and processes in
the past few years and that those changes
continue to be effective and properly
maintained.
Moving on to new business, Mayor
Weaver commented on an item not on the
agenda, which was a first reading at the
last meeting of the Town’s Beach Lighting
Ordinance. The second reading has been
indefinitely pulled from the agenda while
staff reviews comprehensive changes. The
intent will be to bring this ordinance back
to Council prior to turtle season 2019.
Mayor Weaver then read the Kiawah
Native Plant Week Proclamation, which
declares the third week of October as
“Kiawah Native Plant Week” to recognize
the essential value and importance of
Kiawah’s native plants to the island’s
history, landscape and environment. There
will be a number of programs taking place
Oct. 15-19 encouraging planting and
conservation of native species.
Council then considered the approval
from Kimley-Horn for Beachwalker
Dr. improvements. Ways & Means
recommended approval for the $46,400
expenditure to research, design and
construct an additional turn lane to
Beachwalker Dr. The approval passed
unanimously.
The second item for approval was for
the installation and maintenance of
two trash compactors at Kestral Ct., at a
cost of $14,520 annually. Approval was
granted unanimously.
Finally, the Town received three bids
for the demolition of the condemned
property at 122 Turnberry Drive. Ways
& Means recommended approval of a
contract with Watts Builders in an amount
not to exceed $35,500 to demolish and
dispose of the single-family residence,
leaving the lot raked and free of debris.
This passed unanimously in anticipation
of the court order, but Mayor Weaver
noted that the work cannot take place
prior to court approval.
Town Administrator Stephanie
Tillerson updated Council on the trash
concerns with HOAs. Issues center around
the placement of trash receptacles and the
policies of Carolina Waste Management.
Sixteen out of 288 residents contacted
by mail have requested the change to
curbside service.
Committee updates included
Councilmember Wilson’s congratulations
to staff members on the successful audit.
Wilson also stated that the Comprehensive

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 Planning Commission Town of Seabrook Fax: 768-4764
Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 Meeting
Board of Zoning Nov. 7, 3 p.m. Ways & Means Seabrook Island Town H all
843-886-NEWS
Appeals Kiawah Town Hall Committee Meeting 2001 Seabrook Island Road
Oct. 15, 4 p.m. Oct. 16, 2:30 p.m. Seabrook Island, SC 29455
Future submission deadline: Town Council
Kiawah Town Hall Seabrook Town Hall Phone: 768-9121
October 17 for the Meeting
October 26 Issue Fax: 768-9830
Ways & Means Nov. 13, 2 p.m. Town Council Email: lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
Committee Meeting Kiawah Town Hall Meeting
Op-Ed articles and letters to the editor do not Oct. 23, 2 p.m. Oct. 23, 2:30 p.m. Johns Island Council
necessarily reflect the opinion of Kiawah Town Hall Environmental Seabrook Town Hall Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric
Lucky Dog News or its writers. Committee Meeting Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Hwy, Johns
Arts Council Nov. 13, 2 p.m. Planning Commission Island.
Committee Meeting Kiawah Town Hall Meeting Chairman Chris Cannon: 343-5113
The Island Nov. 1, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Town Hall
Nov. 7, 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
October 12, 2018
civic
Annual Financial Report is available on the
Town website and encouraged residents
to take a look at it. He updated Council
on Johns Island’s road improvements and
allotments, which is beginning to sound
like daytime drama. I-526 is apparently
back on the table, but Councilmember
Wilson seemed cautiously skeptical.
Councilmember Widuch reported a
Dec. 15 finish date for Fire Station 6. He
then reminded residents that there is a St.
Johns Fire Commission vacancy starting
in December. Anyone interested should
please contact him or Stephanie Tillerson.
Mayor Weaver gave a final comment
on the first joint meeting between the
Town Council, ARB and KICA to discuss
the Sea Level Rise report. All three groups
were invited to discuss recommendations
and have questions answered by the Sea
Level Rise Committee members. Weaver
described the meeting as a good starting
point and expects subsequent meetings to
follow.
Marilyn Green Larach took to the
podium for closing Citizen’s Comments
to discuss the trash collection at the
Greenslake Cottages. She and her
neighbors have been recently told Carolina
Waste Management, per their policy, will
not collect trash that is not at street level.
Larach was surprised because this has never
civic
Seabrook Island Town
Council
M E E T I N G S E P T. 2 5
BY GREGG BRAGG
The Island Connection Sr. Staff Writer
S
eabrook Island Town Council (SITC)
seems to have found the sweet spot
between civic engagement and short
meeting times. Council chambers were
brimming with attendees for the SITC
September meeting and council rewarded
participants with a renewed efficiency
despite a lengthy agenda. Mayor Ron
Ciancio expressed his thanks for the
turnout before addressing parliamentary
obligations, and turning to the financial
report for the month of August.
It’s been a “spiky” kind of year for
predicting cash flows at Town Hall; a
month of famine followed by a month of
plenty. This month’s numbers rectified last
month’s dip the way it has all year. Revenues
for August beat projections by $140,000 as
the result of checks arriving for franchise
fees from the Municipal Association of SC,
local option sales taxes, and category 7&8
business licenses. Expenses, meanwhile,
were $22,000 below estimates. The
abundance put Seabrook across the $5
million mark in total reserves, said the
Mayor, who introduced a guest speaker for
the first round of Citizen’s Comments.
“My name IS [emphasis hers] Katie
Arrington,” she said before soliciting questions
from residents. Councilmember John Wells
prevented an emerging awkward moment
by asking if Arrington was feeling better
[following a car accident earlier this year]. “I’m
wearing heels, which the doctors said I would
never do again. You can’t keep a woman out of
her heels,” she said to a smattering of chuckles
before leaving the meeting.
been an issue for the years that Carolina
Waste Management has been collecting
trash. She pointed out that there is no space
for permanent, street level trash containers
in the cottage neighborhood and that the
expectation that all residents will take their
trash containers to the street themselves is
unrealistic.
David DeStefano returned to the
podium to discuss the slow-moving
vehicular traffic that he believes residents
are overwhelmingly opposed to. These are
golf carts that run up to 25mph and are
(supposedly) equipped with all standard
automotive safety equipment. DeStefano
referred to the vehicles as “glorified golf
carts” and would like to see the Town
of Kiawah ban these vehicles, which can
only be operated within 4 miles of the
garage they are kept in, according to state
law. DeStefano is concerned for safety
reasons, particularly mothers holding
young children in their laps, and implored
the Town to ban these vehicles. Mayor
Weaver said he is confident that the Town
and the Community Association will take
a serious look at this issue.
Council then moved into Executive
Session.
The next regular meeting of the Kiawah
Island Town Council is scheduled for
Tuesday, Nov. 6 at 2 p.m.
Tid e Char t
Councilmember John Gregg’s report
included;
1. The ad hoc committee assembled Date High Tide Low Tide
to revise SITC’s employee
handbook has all but completed
their work, which will be ready for Oct 12 11:19am/11:27pm 4:47am/5:27pm
review in the near term.
Oct 13 12:05pm 5:30am/6:15pm
2. The club’s Long Range Planning
Committee continues looking to the Oct 14 12:13am/12:53pm 6:14am/7:04pm
future by collecting and weighing
topics to discuss in 2019, along with
Oct 15 1:01am/1:45pm 7:01am/7:56pm
a survey to facilitate their quest. Oct 16 1:53am/2:39pm 7:53am/8:49pm
3. The Public Safety Committee
met on 9/10 with a focus on Oct 17 2:48am/3:34pm 8:49am/9:43pm
emergency debris removal Oct 18 3:45am/4:27pm 9:48am/10:34pm
and emergency housing. The
epicenter of an emergency Oct 19 4:40am/5:18pm 10:44am/11:22pm
preparedness exercise held in
June was earthquake response. Oct 20 5:31am/6:05pm 11:36am
The work revealed unaddressed Oct 21 6:19am/6:49pm 12:07am/12:25pm
details including; power, water,
sewer, propane supplies, and Oct 22 7:03am/7:31pm 12:49am/1:10pm
getting staff back to the island.
Gregg assured attendees nothing Oct 23 7:45am/8:11pm 1:29am/1:54pm
was going to slip through the Oct 24 8:25am/8:50pm 2:09am/2:38pm
fissures. Planned communication
mediums for seismic events, for Oct 25 9:05am/9:30pm 2:49am/3:22pm
example, include; Tidelines, the
code-red system, and e-blasts.
Hurricanes, storms, etc., are NOT included in the predictions.
The group is also working on Tidal current direction changes and tide time predictions can be
documenting guidelines for such
very different. Tide predictions are PREDICTIONS; they can be
events. The finished product wrong so use common sense.
will be incorporated into the
comprehensive emergency plan Source: saltwatertides.com
available through the Town.
SITC continues on page 4

civic
SITC continues from page 3
Gregg concluded his report by saying
SITC has already filed for public assistance
with the Federal Emergency Management
Agency for costs incurred in anticipation
of Hurricane Florence.
Councilmember Skip Crane
announced the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) would be holding
a licensing class Oct. 24-25 for those
interested in using amateur radios. He
concluded his report by saying the Town’s
new website is on its way as old content
was being migrated and augmented by
new content, with an expected completion
by the end of the year.
Councilmember John Wells made short
work of his report again this month. He
said construction on Seabrook Island Rd.
has begun, evidenced by the many orange
construction cones lining Seabrook Island
Pkwy. He then announced the dolphin
program was coming to a close for the
season with metrics to follow.
The Mayor’s report consisted of an
announcement SITC will be reviewing its
time share ordinance. Fractional ownership
in ¼ shares is permitted on Seabrook, but
“timeshares” are not. The Town will be
looking for a more specific definition of
terms and how to manage them to SC state
standards before the end of the year.
Town Administrator Joe Cronin said
the budget is 95% done and will be ready
in plenty of time for the Town’s workshop
on 10/11. He provided the year-end Beach
Patrol report saying 134 warnings were
issued and only three citations. The bulk of
the infractions were committed by visitors,
and only 35% of the activity involved
Seabrook residents [the full report is
available through the Town]. The contract
with Beach Patrol includes the option
to renew for up to two years in one-year
October 12, 2018
increments, and is currently under review.
The Mayor chimed in to add that
enforcing Town ordinances is a vital part
of Seabrook’s ability to get the permits
required to re-nourish the beach as
needed. Beach Patrol, in turn, provides
documentation of those efforts, and
helps make the Town’s case. The Mayor
then turned the mic back to the Town
Administrator.
Cronin wrapped up with some details
of Town Hall renovations and an upgrade
to the Town’s Wifi.
Jim Bannwart said the utility
experienced normal operations, and had
received $25,000 from FEMA to mitigate
the cost of coping with Hurricane Irma,
which helped with SIU’s bottom line.
There were four measures for second
reading on the agenda:
Ordinance 2018-06, rezoned 2460
Seabrook Island Rd. as a conservation
easement, and passed unanimously. Finke
abstained from the vote, and there was no
debate on the measure, which passed.
Ordinance 2018-07 clarified
Seabrook’s leash law. SITC said they
consulted with residents including
members of the pet friendly Sea Dogs
group, and determined electronic collars
would be prohibited. There was neither
debate nor comments this month, and the
measure passed unanimously as written.
Ordinance 2018-08 is a measure
designed to strengthen fishing restrictions,
and empower Beach Patrol to protect the
public from untended lines or fishing too
close to recreation areas. The measure
passed unanimously.
Ordinance 2018-09 is a measure
designed to define what materials can be
used for “fences." SITC code prohibited
some materials the Community
Association’s Architectural Review
Committee didn’t. The ordinance is
intended to sync the two definitions, but
was tabled to give the planning commission
a chance to better review the proposal.
Seabrook resident and regime
president Steve Glickman used the second
installment of Citizen’s Comments to
request a grandfather clause be added to
ordinance 2018-09. The Mayor explained
such a clause was SITC’s intent all along.
“It’s been 50 years since law school [rolling
his eyes and grinning] but what you’re
talking about is ex post facto, which does
not apply here.”
There being no further business, the
meeting was adjourned in less than 45
minutes. The next regular meeting of the
Seabrook Island Town Council will be
Tuesday, Oct. 23 at 2:30 p.m.
October 12, 2018
arts & events
Roger Bellow and the Drifting Troubadours, a festival favorite, will return to the Harvest
Festival.
Harvest Festival continues from cover
event. Or, ages 8-17 can also just try out
archery between 1 and 5 p.m. at the event
without competing. All activities are free
with the festival admission fee.
As part of the festival, Mullet Hall
Equestrian Center at Johns Island
County Park offers the Harvest Festival
Weekend Trail Ride for horse owners
on Nov. 2-4. Equestrians are invited
to bring camping gear and supplies for
two nights of camping and trail riding
on 20 miles of beautiful, wooded trails.
For details, call 843.795.4386 or visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Harvest Festival 2018 is held Saturday,
Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Johns Island
County Park. Admission is $8 per person.
Kids 12 and under and Gold Pass holders are
admitted free. Food and beverages available
for additional fees. For more information, call
843-795-4386, visit CharlestonCountyParks.
com or download Charleston County Parks’
mobile app. This event is brought to you by
Coca-Cola, Charleston Animal Society and
the Charleston County Park and Recreation
Commission.
5
arts & events
Dogtober Fest at Kiawah
T H E U LT I M AT E FA L L F E S T
BY LEAH BURRIS
For The Island Connection
K
ICA’s Dogtoberfest is the
ultimate Fall festival, uniting
pets, Halloween, Oktoberfest and
community at the center of Freshfields
Village with a dog costume contest, wine
and beer tastings, adorable adoptable
pets, vendors and more. The 12th Annual
Dogtoberfest is on Saturday, Oct. 27 from
1-5 p.m. and admission is free. Bring your
favorite canine, enjoy satisfying food
from Kay’s Southern Gourmet and Bac’n
Me Crazy food trucks, grab a drink and
mingle with friends.
Tickets for the wine or beer tastings are
$30 each, and include a complimentary
Dogtoberfest wine glass or beer tasting
cup and koozie. You can feel good
knowing that proceeds from the tastings
benefit local pet rescue organizations
like the Carolina Coonhound Rescue,
2017 Dogtoberfest particpants.
Grateful Goldens Rescue, Greyhound Pets
of America - Charleston, King Charles Society, with Platinum Sponsors:
Cavalier Spaniel Rescue, Lowcountry Doolittles, Angel Oak Animal Hospital,
Lab Rescue, Pet Helpers, Shih Tzus and Creekside Pet Retreat, Xfinity, Freshfields
Furbabies, and Water’s Edge Animal Village and 48 Wine Bar.
Rescue. The wine tasting is curated by 48 This community event is open to
Wine Bar in Freshfields Village. everyone. To find out more about attending
Dogtoberfest is hosted by the Kiawah vendors, sponsors, entertainment, food
Island Community Association and and wine, check out Facebook.com/
presented by the Charleston Animal DogtoberfestKI.
6 October 12, 2018
daily
Grow Native celebrates Kiawah Native Plant Week
BY STEPHANIE BRASWELL
For The Island Connection
O
n October 2, Mayor Craig
Weaver signed a proclamation
designating the third week of
October as Kiawah Native Plant Week
that will coincide with South Carolina
Native Plant Week.
On October 14-20, the Town of
Kiawah and the Kiawah Conservancy will
officially kick off the new Grow Native
campaign intended to promote the use of
native plants on the island and improve
the island’s wildlife habitat.
Using native plants in landscaping has a
direct impact on the ecosystem, including:
• Protection of water resources,
allowing gardeners to reduce
fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation
practices which can contribute to
stormwater runoff, pollution and
degradation of downstream water
quality.
• Sustain pollinators vital for fruit
production and provide high-
quality food and shelter for 10
to 15 times as many species of
wildlife as non-native plants.
• Provide essential watershed
protection, helping natural
aquifers recharge, serving to filter
water naturally flowing into rivers
Doug Tallamy, author of Bringing Nature and estuaries and lessening erosion
Home. and flooding.
Photo courtesy of HumansAndNature.org. • Resistance to saltwater intrusion
from flooding and storm surge. flowering information, salt tolerance, deer
In addition to programs, the Town of resistance, and the wildlife value for each
Kiawah will also be releasing the Grow plant. This database will serve as a resource
Native database, (GrowNativeKiawah. for residents, landscapers, landscape
com) an online searchable database of architects, landscape designers, and other
native trees, shrubs, perennials, vines, entities. The database is currently in
ferns, and grasses that will provide detailed development and is set to be released by
information on growing conditions, size, the end of November.
Grow Native Engagement Activities
1. Conservation Matters | Restoring Nature’s Relationships at Home with
Doug Tallamy
Monday Oct. 15 at 3 p.m. | The Sandcastle
Register at KiawahConservancy.org or call 843.768.2029.
Doug Tallamy, author of Bringing Nature Home and Professor and Chair of the
Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology at the University of Delaware will
explain why relationships between animals and native plants are the norm in nature
rather than the exception and how to create a landscape that enhances Kiawah’s ecology.
This program is sponsored by the Kiawah Conservancy, Town of Kiawah Island,
and Kiawah Island Community Association.
2. Kiawah Conservancy Garden Keepers Program
Tuesday, Oct. 16 at 9 a.m. | Kiawah Demonstration Garden
Join the Garden Keepers for a morning of garden work and conversation. They’ll
talk about how you can join the Grow Native movement as we celebrate SC Native
Plant Week.
3. Mornings in the Garden: Growing Native with Justin Core
Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 10 a.m. | Kiawah Demonstration Garden
Learn how to use Kiawah’s native plants for the benefit of wildlife species and get all
of your Kiawah natives questions answered.
October 12, 2018
Keeping kids out of foster care
CHARLESTON HALOS PROVIDES GAP SERVICES
BY GREGG BRAGG
The Island Connection Sr. Staff Writer
C
harleston Halos is the mixed bag
of Lowcountry charities. Since
their founding in 1997 by Dr.
Eve Spratt, their operations have been
primarily funded by grants from The
Sisters of Charity Foundation of SC,
The Duke Endowment, and a smidgen
of individual donations. The Medical
University of South Carolina (MUSC)
child psychiatrist found a hole in access
to public assistance for young victims of
abuse/neglect in the tri-county area she
wanted to patch.
The term ‘Kinship Care’ wasn’t coined
by Charleston Halos (Halos) according
to Kim Clifton, Executive Director, but
it is the condition they work to improve.
Though it is not readily recognized, the
intuitive expression describes families
circling the wagons to care for their own
in hard times. The effort keeps kids out
of foster care at a rate of 25-1 with Halos’
help, with 57,000 SC kids currently living
with ‘kin’, meaning relatives or close
family friends.
All too often, this means they’re
living with grandparents or other family
members already living on social security
(SS) or otherwise living week-to-week.
These fractured families often bypass the
SC Department of Social Services with its
daily
built-in access to social services. Halos’
fills the gap with its unique combination
of dedicated staff, and unique technology.
our staff and
volunteers will
also provide
personal
counseling for
6-18 months
depending on
how extensive
or complex the
situation is
Benefit Bank Counseling is one several
tools in Halos’ arsenal, says Clifton. The
service includes the Benefit Bank Software
System (BBSS), which enables Halos’
counselors to sift through benefits families
have earned. Temporary Aid to Needy
Families (TANS) sometimes provides
as much as $184/month/household,
for example. The software can also test
eligibility for veteran’s benefits people
didn’t know they had earned, increases in
Supplemental Security Income, and access
to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
“Our staff and volunteers will also
provide personal counseling for 6 – 18
months depending on how extensive or
complex the situation is,” says Clifton,
who is no stranger to good works.
The Savannah native is a graduate of the
College of Charleston. She also has a Master
of Social Work from Boston University
with a spotlight on program planning
and development, community organizing,
and nonprofit administration. Clifton has
served as an AmeriCorps VISTA member
on Whidbey Island, Washington and was
a fundraising specialist in Guatemala,
among other posts.
Fundraising is integral to any non-profit,
and Clifton is good at it. Charleston
Halos received a new grant in 2017 from
the Victims of Crime Act to keep them
going, and individual donations are always
welcome. However, Halos is willing to work
for everything, and manage to have fun in
the process. The 7th annual Charleston
Halos Oyster roast is one way you can help.
It is scheduled for October 14 from 4–7 p.m.
at Bridgeside Blvd. in Mount Pleasant, rain
or shine. Tickets are $45 in advance/$55 at
the door. You can register by visiting https://
www.eventbrite.com/e/7th-annual-halos-
oyster-roast-tickets-48407920393.
December will see Halos annual
Holiday Drive, which their website says
7
is already in full swing. Halos reports
2,500 of their children have sponsors,
but there is a general call for holiday gifts
for these children. You can also sponsor a
child entering the Kinship Care program
toward the end of the year, which would
mean a lot to someone going through so
much change during the holidays. To find
out more, send an email to NyRe Taylor
(nyre@charlestonhalos.org).
Early next year, Halos will host an
appearance by The Duke Pitchforks
scheduled tentatively for February 3
from 6:30–8:30 p.m. at the Circular
Congregational Church,150 Meeting
St. The Pitchforks are an award winning
a capella group specializing in both
contemporary hits and old favorites. The
“Forks” will be joined by The Plantation
Singers, another a capella/percussion
group with roots in the Lowcountry,
specializing in gospel music.
Halos has helped 50,000 Berkeley,
Charleston, and Dorchester county kids
since 1997. For more information, visit
CharlestonHalos.org.
7th Annual Oyster Roast
Sunday, Oct. 14
4-7 p.m.
Harborside East, Mount Pleasant
Tickets at CharlestonHalos.org
8 October 12, 2018
daily
Registration open for Festival of Lights
L I M I T E D T I C K E T S F O R F U N R U N A N D W A L K N O V. 7 & 8
BY SARAH REYNOLDS
For The Island Connection
R
unners and walkers of all experience
levels are invited to traverse through
hundreds of spectacular light
displays that fascinate thousands every
holiday season. This year’s Holiday Festival
of Lights Fun Run and Walk takes place on
Nov. 7 and 8 at James Island County Park.
This unique event offers participants
an extraordinary opportunity to see the
lights on foot before the festival opens to
the general public and vehicular traffic.
This two-mile, non-competitive run/
walk is offered on two evenings before the
festival’s opening – Wednesday, Nov. 7 and
Thursday, Nov. 8. Registration is now open
at CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Much of the Holiday Festival of Lights
is normally seen from a vehicle, so the
Fun Run and Walk offers a leisurely
opportunity to explore the displays up
close. Participants will get a preview of the
festival’s 700+ illuminated displays during
the run/walk. Then, families can enjoy all
of the very merry amenities that the festival
offers, including gift shops, marshmallow
roasting, train and carousel rides, and
much more.
Advance registration is required for the
Fun Run and Walk. Interested participants
are encouraged to register now before it sells
out. Register by phone at 843.795.4386 or
online at CharlestonCountyParks.com by
3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 7. Race fees
are $12. Rates increase to $15 per person
after Nov. 7. Move It Pass holders receive
a discounted rate of $10 per ticket. Ages
2 and under are free, but will still need a
ticket to gain entry into the park. This is
a wheelchair and stroller-friendly course.
Socialized dogs on short, non-retractable
leashes are welcome. Retractable leashes,
bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades and
scooters are not permitted.
All participants must be pre-registered
and have an admission ticket to enter the
park. There will be no on-site ticket sales.
James Island County Park will close to
traffic at 6:30 p.m.; therefore, participants
are encouraged to arrive early. Flashlights
are recommended for optimal visibility. The
park will reopen to traffic at approximately
8:30 p.m.
The Holiday Festival of Lights opens to
the general public on Nov. 9 and will be
open nightly through Jan. 1, 2019, at James
Island County Park.
The Holiday Festival of Lights and
the Fun Run and Walk are presented
by The Boeing Company, Chick-fil-A
and your Charleston County Parks. For
more information on the festival, visit
HolidayFestivalofLights.com.
October 12, 2018
Huddled masses yearning to breathe free
The Depression Years Tour illustrates the actual conditions of immigrants in NYC in the 1930s. Photo provided by the Tenement Museum in New York.
BY CAROL ANTMAN
For The Island Connection
N
umb from the ceaseless clamor
of news about immigrant
bans, terrorism, border walls
and fear, my husband and I visited the
Tenement Museum in New York hoping
for some perspective. We are both
second generation Americans; all of our
grandparents emigrated from Eastern
Europe in the early 20th century. Here
they lived the epitome of the American
Dream; they arrived virtually penniless
and left behind thriving Americanized
families that have continued to excel.
We came with the conviction that new
immigration policies are an abrogation
of American ideals. We left with a much
more complex understanding.
The mission of the museum is to “tell
stories of immigrants who started their
lives anew on Manhattan’s Lower East
Side between the 19th and 21st centuries
through the recreated apartment and
businesses of real families…” Unlike
museums that are housed in grand
buildings, this one consists of two historic
tenement apartments.
When the founders, Ruth Abram
and Anita Jacobson stumbled upon the
buildings in 1988, they were like time
capsules. “It was like the people had just
picked up and left,” Jacobson recalls.
Today, eight different tours take visitors
into the buildings that are set up as if the
occupants still lived and worked there.
One tour highlights sweatshops; Under
One Roof shows the diverse lives of
Jewish, Chinese and Hispanic neighbors;
one highlights the Depression years; Irish
Outsiders shows their struggle against
ROADTRIPS CHARLESTON
prejudice. Opportunities to extend
the experiences include workshops,
discussions and behind the scenes
tours and even a tasting tour of the
neighborhood.
The american
Dream is a
narrative to
make us feel
good. But it’s a
narrative.
Our tour, Shop Life, took us through
the apartment and saloon of John and
Caroline Schneider. Interactive elements
brought the experience alive. Our guide,
Raj Varma, gave us each a bio of someone
who actually lived in the neighborhood
and prompted us to stay in character and
playact an evening in the neighborhood
tavern which was once one of the 720 bars
within the 15 block neighborhood.
The immigrant experience, Raj
stressed, is of equivalent importance to
the Civil War in defining who we are as
a nation. In the 1840’s, the Lower East
Side of New York was the most densely
populated place in the world. It was the
first area in the country where people
spoke a different language, German. It
also housed the largest number of families
with the worst amenities: few windows
and no running water or gas. Eighty
percent of babies born in hospitals died.
Immigrants who came to this crowded,
smelly, noisy, dirty destination may have
asked themselves, “Is this the America I
was dreaming of?” and discussion but are now frequently
Throughout the tour, Raj gave us
examples of the disconnect in our
country’s attitude towards immigrants.
On the one hand we celebrate and
encourage them and on the other hand
we pass laws to subjugate them.
“The American Dream is a narrative to
make us feel good,” Raj said. “But it’s a
narrative.”
The museum shows the lives of
typical people who worked hard to build
the factories and buildings only to die
forgotten and poor while the lives of
rich people are memorialized. In fact,
“We’ve always been anti-immigration
in this country,” he reasoned as he cited
laws that barred certain “undesirables,”
set unreasonable barriers or quotas and
turned a blind eye to genocide. I’d always
taken the Statue of Liberty’s inscription
as a shining example of our country’s
fundamental truth but my perspective
shifted. “Every citizen of our country has
to reconcile themselves to this duality,”
Raj concluded.
In today’s highly charged political
climate, I was interested to learn that
tours at the museum are often disrupted
by controversy. In an article written by
Sebastien Malo for Reuters, the museum’s
director of education Miriam Bader
says, “People will now share stronger
opinions about whether or not they
think immigrants are sort of bleeding
the country, they’re taking too much
that other people should have, or they’re
taking our jobs. You’ll hear … comments
like ‘You know the immigrants of the
9
past aren’t like those of today’.” The
museum has added training for its guides
who have always encouraged interaction
confronted by antagonistic opinions.
“The political climate has created a
need for new skills or superpowers to
facilitate the conversation,” Ms. Bader
explained.
It was an eye-opening experience
that left us with increased admiration
for our grandparents who overcame
immense obstacles: escaping murderous
hordes, travelling across Europe alone as
teenagers, arriving destitute in a country
and then scraping together a livelihood
amidst degrading conditions. We felt
gratitude for their fortitude and for this
country that gave them opportunities. But
also, our disdain of recent immigration
policy changes shifted. As Raj stated,
“People who criticize our president for
immigration laws have never studied our
immigration laws. Our laws have never
been about who is let in, they’re about
who to exclude.”
Roadtrips Charleston highlights
interesting destinations within a few hours
drive of Charleston, S.C. as well as more far
flung locales. Carol Antman’s wanderlust is
driven by a passion for outdoor adventure,
artistic experiences, cultural insights and
challenging travel. For hot links, photographs
and previous columns or to make comments
please see PeaksAndPotholes.blogspot.com.
If You Go:
tenement.org
10 October 12, 2018
daily

Madison Keys to play

Volvo Car Open
P L AY E R R E T U R N S F O R 7 T H
CONSECUTIVE YEAR
BY ARIELLE ALPINO
For The Island Connection

M
adison Keys has committed to play
the 2019 Volvo Car Open, March
30 – April 7, 2019 on Daniel
Island. The 23-year-old American will
join US Open champion Sloane Stephens
and Australian Open champion Caroline
Wozniacki in the growing player field.
Keys’ 2018 season includes two
semifinal Grand Slam finishes at the
US Open and French Open, and one
quarterfinal Grand Slam finish at the
Australian Open. In addition, she reached
the semifinals at the Volvo Car Open
and the quarterfinals at the Western &
Southern Open. She was a finalist at the
2017 US Open.
“Madison has become a huge fan
favorite in Charleston,” said Eleanor
Adams, Volvo Car Open Tournament
Manager. “Her spirit on-and-off the court
is contagious, and our fans have had the
chance to watch her talents grow these
last few years. We’re thrilled to welcome
this tennis standout back to the Volvo Car
Open.”
Keys has found success on the green
clay in Charleston. Not only did she reach Madison Keys.
the semifinals of the Volvo Car Open in Photo courtesy Wikimedia.com.
2018, but she was also a finalist in 2015
The Volvo Car Open formerly known as
and a quarterfinalist in 2013.
the Family Circle Cup, moved to Charleston,
The 2019 Volvo Car Open will be SC, in 2001 from Hilton Head Island, SC,
Keys’ seventh consecutive Charleston and will celebrate its 47th tournament in
tournament. 2019. The tournament features a singles
“I love playing the Volvo Car Open!,” draw of 56 players, a qualifying draw of 32
said Keys. “The fans are truly amazing players and a doubles draw of 16 players. In
and I have great memories from the conjunction with Tennis Channel and WTA
tournament… I reached one of my first Media, the Volvo Car Open is showcased
finals there. I always look forward to from the first ball struck in main draw
coming back.” competition to the last ball played in finals,
At World No. 18, Keys is on track to throughout the U.S. and 174 international
finish her fourth successive season in the partners. The tournament receives more than
WTA’s top 20 rankings. 100 hours of tennis; live from Charleston,
The nine-day Volvo Car Open is the broadcast across the globe to millions of fans.
largest women’s-only tennis tournament The tournament is operated by Charleston
in North America and attracts an average Tennis, LLC. For more information on the
of 90,000 attendees and more than 100 of Volvo Car Open, visit VolvoCarOpen.com.
the top singles and doubles tennis players.
October 12, 2018
Fall brings best fishing of the year
F
all has arrived bringing with it cooler
weather and shorter days. But don't
put your rods and reels away just
yet because we're about to experience the
best fishing of the year! Fishermen will
continue to find success with live bait but
artificial lures should become increasingly
productive. Make time to get out on the
water, you will have a blast!
Artificial lures
have started
to really work
for trout and
the traditional
paddle tail
design has been
great
Redfish have been hungrily eating cut
and live bait fished on the bottom. Mullet
especially are pervasive in our waters and
can be easily netted. We'll rig the bait on
an Owner size 3/0 circle hook paired with
a carolina rig. You can use this setup on
11
on the water
BY GEOFF BENNETT
For The Island Connection
the flats as well as under docks. Just put
your rod in the holder and wait for the
reel to start screaming as the fish hook
themselves.
Artificial lures have started to really
work for trout and the traditional paddle
tail design has been great. I'll use a 1/4oz.
Trout Eye jighead and tie a loop knot to
give the lure even more action. Vary your
rate of retrieve as you prospect different
spots for pockets of fish. To make your
lure even more attractive, try putting a
piece of shrimp on the hook. You can use
pieces of frozen or live shrimp and it will
put a scent trail on your lure that fish find
hard to resist.
Even as artificial lures become more
effective, keep tossing those popping
corks. Live shrimp, mud minnows and
artificial shrimp have been working great Krissy Engel from Minneapolis, MN caught a 9lb tagged redfish using a mud minnow
when suspended about 18"-24" below under a popping cork in Charleston Harbor. It was her first redfish ever.
the cork on a fluorocarbon leader and an Photo by Geoff Bennett.
Owner size 1 circle hook. Redfish, trout circles with their golden backs flashing in providing light tackle charters. Clients
and flounder alike will eat these baits the sun. Use patience when approaching choose from a full menu of fishing options
as they pass by suspended in the water the schools and when you make your with charters tailored to their desires.
column. Corks have been working best first shot make sure to cast to the edges USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett
fished along grassy banks at mid and high so as not to spook the school. Jerk shad is committed to providing a safe and
tide. artificial lures rigged on Gamakatsu size enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels
With the colder water temperature, 3/0 flutter hooks are the way to go. and ages. For more information, call Capt.
redfish are starting to form bigger schools. See you on the water! Bennett at 843.324.3332, visit his website
These large schools make for excellent at CharlestonCharterFishing.com or email
sight fishing on low tides. On clear days, For a decade, Capt. Geoff Bennett him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.
you can see these redfish swimming in has operated Charleston Charter Fishing com.
 October 12
ONGOING
WHAT: Beachfront Lights Out
WHERE: all seaward, beachfront
properties
WHEN: 9 p.m.- 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: US Fish and Wildlife
Service discourages the use of outdoor
lights when not required, in order to
protect nesting sea turtles. When on the
beach at dark, use red filters on flashlights.
Artificial light such as flashlights without
filters are prohibited on the beach at night.
This includes flashlights on phones as well.
Mondays
WHAT: Family Trees
WHERE: Walton Hall at St. John’s Parish,
3673 Maybank Hwy.
WHEN: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
MORE INFO: Begin exploring the
process of clearing title for heirs’ property
by defining the family tree. For more
information or to make an appointment
for an initial assessment call 843.810.1036
WHAT: Farmer’s Market
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: 4 - 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Shop locally grown organic
produce along with specialty food products,
delicious treats, fresh seafood and Lowcountry
crafts. Or come hungry and enjoy BBQ, take-
away dinners, sweets and more.
WHAT: Charleston Coastal Choir
WHERE: Church of Our Savior
WHEN: 1 p.m.
MORE INFO: Local, mixed community
chorus, open for membership. Season runs
October through March. For information
contact Director of Music, Van McCollum at
404.401.0678 or vanmccollum@bellsouth.net.
Tuesdays
WHAT: Family Oriented Tours and
Activities
WHERE: Nathaniel Russell House
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Family tours start on the
half-hour between 10:30 am and 12:30
pm. Docent-led scavenger hunt tours,
historic games and toys in the garden.
HistoricCharleston.org for information
and to purchase tickets for the date and
museum house you would like to attend.
WHAT: Kick-it at Bohicket
WHERE: Bohicket Marina
WHEN: 6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Face painting, a balloon
artist, DJ and sand art bracelets. Co-
sponsored by The Town of Seabrook Island
& Bohicket Merchants Association. For
questions call Todd at 248.719.0076.
First and Third
Tuesdays
WHAT: The Charleston County Public
Library Bookmobile
WHERE: Parking lot behind Hege’s
WHEN: 10-11 a.m.
MORE INFO: Bookmobile is back the
first and third Tuesdays of the month. The
schedule for the summer is June 19, July 3
& 17, August 7 & 21.
Island Connection Calendar
Wednesdays
WHAT: Kids Fishing Tournament
WHERE: Bohicket Marina
WHEN: 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: A Fishing Tournament just
for kids ages 4-14. Two rounds of fishing.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your
desired round. It’s only $7 per participant
which includes all bait and fishing rods.
Every tournament produces 3 winners
which will receive a tournament shirt, bait,
bucket and bragging rights. Questions call
248.719.0076.
WHAT: Timbers Kiawah Concerts in the
Courtyard
WHERE: The Courtyard between Hege’s
and Java Java (Freshfields Village)
WHEN: 6-8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join Timbers Kiawah in
The Courtyard every Wednesday for live
music with Chris Dodson, outdoor kids
games, local art and beverages provided
by Timbers Kiawah. The series will run
through Wed., Aug. 29.
WHAT: English Conversation Club
WHERE: John’s Island Regional Library
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Practice speaking English
with a small group. Beginners to advanced
learners welcome. A children’s program
and/or craft will be provided during the
club meeting. Registration is not required;
call 843.559.1945 for more information.
Thursdays
WHAT: Family Oriented Tours and
Activities
WHERE: Aiken-Rhett House
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Family tours start on the
half-hour between 10:30 am and 12:30
pm. Docent-led scavenger hunt tours,
historic games and toys in the garden.
HistoricCharleston.org for information
and to purchase tickets for the date and
museum house you would like to attend.
WHAT: Live Music at The Andell Inn
WHERE: The Andell Inn Hotel,
Freshfields Village
WHEN: 6-8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Relax with cool jazz
every Thursday evening in the lounge of
the Andell Inn Hotel. Drinks and food
available. No cover charge. 843.793.6050.
AndellInn.com.
Thursdays & Sundays
WHAT: Live Music
WHERE: 48 A Wine Bar
WHEN: 6:30-8:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Featuring 48 wines
by the glass every day. For details visit
FortyEightWineBar.com.
Saturday
WHAT: Johns Island Farmers Market
WHERE: Charleston Collegiate SChool,
2024 Academy Rd.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Charleston’s only year-
round farmers market, highlighting
produce and locally produced goods
and foods. Live music, kids activities.
JohnsIslandFarmersMarket.com for details.
Third Saturday of
the Month
WHAT: Sea Islands Cars & Coffee
WHERE: Freshfields Village, Kiawah
WHEN: 9-11 a.m.
MORE INFO: This free event will feature
antiques, classics, exotics, concepts and any
other cool cars. Coffee and other refreshments
available for purchase by Java Java Coffee
House. If you have any specific questions
about the event, please contact Bruce
Stemerman at bstemerman@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, OCT. 13
WHAT: Lowcountry Trail Half
Marathon
WHERE: Johns Island County Park
WHEN: 8:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Half marathon and a
5K, spectators are welcome. Registration
is $40, and $32 respectively and ends
at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 11, Walk-up
registration on race day from 7 – 8 a.m.
Rates increase 20% on race day. Fees
include post-race beverages, food and live
music. Online registration T-shirts will be
given to runners who register prior to Sept.
13. Participants ages 10-15 can register,
but must be accompanied by an adult
chaperone. Parent/guardian must sign
waiver for participants ages 17 and under.
To register, visit CharlestonCountyParks.
com or call 843.795.4386.
WHAT: CATR Movie Night
WHERE: 2669 Hamilton Rd.
WHEN: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Misty, showing under the
covered arena. Bring your chairs and blankets.
Food trucks and refreshments will be available.
Tickets online at CATR.ejoinme.org/
movienight2018. Sponsorship opportunities
available. Contact Amanda Gerald at info@
catr-program.org for more information.
SUNDAY, OCT. 14
WHAT: A Doll’s House, Part 2
WHERE: turtle Point Clubhouse
WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Kiawah Arts and Cultural
Events presents a Pure Theater production.
Tickets available online at KiawahIsland.
org/events or at the Municipal Center
843.768.9166. Events are open to the
public. Ticket release to Kiawah residents
on Sept. 25, general public Sept. 28.
WHAT: Latin American Festival
WHERE: Wannamaker Park, North
Charleston
WHEN: noon-6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Latin American music,
dance, art, food and children’s activities.
Four time Grammy Award nominees
Plena Libre will be headlining, Capoeira
Charleston and Buen Aché Dance
Group will also perform. Admission
is $10, $5 with valid student ID. Visit
CharlestonCountyParks.com for schedule
and information.
WHAT: David Holt’s Festival of
Mountain Music
WHERE: East Beach Conference Center,
Kiawah
WHEN: 4-6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Four-time Grammy
Winner Holt hosts 3 acts. Tickets on
sale 10/5 and available at the Kiawah
Municipal Center. For more info visit
KiawahIsland.org.
TUESDAY, OCT. 16
WHAT: Queen St. Harmony Music
Series
WHERE: Queen St. Playhouse
WHEN: Doors at 6:30, show at 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: 2018 music series featuring
some of our favorite Barn Jam artists and
many others you need to get to know. This
Tuesday: Doug Jones Everybody Doug
Jones, Forty Mile Detour and Wild Ponies.
Tickets $10 advance/$15 day of, available
at AwendawGreen.com.
FRIDAY, OCT. 19
WHAT: 10th Annual NFF Golf
Tournament
WHERE: Oak Point Golf Club
WHEN: Registration 7 a.m., play at 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: St. Johns Professional
Firefighters Local 3883 hosts tournament
to support the National Fallen Firefighters
Foundation, committed to assisting the
families of firefighters who die in the line
of duty. Captain’s Choice playing format
with after round dinner provided by
Backdraft BBQ. Raffle and putting contest
available. Visit FireHero.org/event/golf18-
stjohns to register.
SUNDAY, OCT. 21
WHAT: Festival of Mountain Music
WHERE: East Beach Conference Center
WHEN: 4-6:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Kiawah Arts and Cultural
Events presents a David Holt production.
Tickets available online at KiawahIsland.
org/events or at the Municipal Center
843.768.9166. Events are open to the
public. Ticket release Oct. 5.
THURSDAY, OCT. 25
WHAT: Wide Angle Lunch
WHERE: Charleston Library Society,
Main Reading Room
WHEN: 12:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Steve Stegelin, “Sketchy
Politics: The Life of an Editorial
Cartoonist in the Trump Era.” Part
career retrospective, part philosophical
discussion, Steve’s talk delves into the
importance of social commentary,
and how that political discourse has
evolved during the current American
political administration. Admission
$20 for members/$30 for non-members
(including lunch). Lunch will be available
from 12:15 p.m., and talks begin at
12:30 p.m. Seating is limited. For more
information call 843.723.9912 or visit
charlestonlibrarysociety.org.
WHAT: MORE. GOOD. DAYS.
WHERE: Charleston Yacht Club
WHEN: 6-9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Respite Care Charleston’s
October 27
annual art gala features exhibit, silent
auction, cocktails and heavy hors
d’oeuvres. Event benefits RCC, a nonprofit
organization serving those living with
Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of
dementia. Tickets are $50 per person,
availability is limited. Sponsorships are
also available. For information contact
Sara Perry at 843.647.7405 or Sara@
RespiteCareCharleston.org.
SATURDAY, OCT. 27
WHAT: Run Like The Devil
WHERE: Mullet Hall Equestrian Center
WHEN: 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: Charleston Collegiate
School’s annual 5K and Family Fun Run.
Food, Halloween-themed games, costume
contest, prizes, and more. Register at
CharlestonCollegiate.org.
WHAT: Get to Know the Transgender
Community, Lee Ann Leland
WHERE: Johns Island Regional Library
WHEN: 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Transformative local
series invites community to converse
with individuals who have been exposed
to prejudice or stigma, and engage in an
open, honest and respectful dialogue.
Leland is co-facilitator of the Charleston
Area Transgender Support Group, on the
Board of We Are Family and received the
Community Leadership Award in 2017
from the Alliance For Full Acceptance. For
more information contact ccpl.org or call
843.559.1945.
14
When should you see a financial professional?
I
t can be challenging to achieve your
financial objectives. Fortunately, you
don’t have to go it alone, but when
should you seek help?
Here are some of the key life events in
which you might be able to benefit from
the services of a financial professional:
First professional job
Eventually, you will land that first job,
which will offer benefits and a 401(k) or
similar employer-sponsored retirement
plan. Since you may not have any
experience with a 401(k), you may have
several questions: How much should I
financial focus
BY DIMI MATOUCHEV
For The Island Connection
contribute? What sorts of investments
should I choose? When should I change
my investment selections? A financial
professional can help you review your
plan and explain the aspects that may
affect your investment choices.
Marriage
When you get married, you and
your spouse may decide to merge your
finances, including your investments. But
if each of you brings similar investments
to the table, you might create some
redundancies. A financial professional
can look at your respective portfolios and
recommend ways to diversify. Generally,
the more diversified you are, the greater
your protection against market downturns
that primarily hit one type of asset class.
(However, while diversification can help
reduce the impact of market volatility, it
can’t guarantee profits or protect against
all losses.)
Children
Once you have children, you’ll have new
responsibilities and you’ll have some new
financial issues that should be addressed.
If something happened to you, could your
children still have the same lifestyle and
educational opportunities? Would they
even be able to stay in the same home? To
help ensure your children’s security, you
may need to add more life and disability
insurance.
While life insurance could help pay for
your children’s education, you also should
prepare for education costs as if you will
be around. So you may want to consider
an education savings investment such as a
529 plan. A financial professional can help
you with your insurance and education-
funding needs.
Retirement
Once you retire, you will face a variety
of financial decisions, but here’s one of the
most important ones: How much money
should you withdraw each year from your
October 12, 2018
retirement accounts? To choose an annual
withdrawal rate that’s appropriate for your
needs, you should consider several factors:
how much you have in your retirement
accounts, how much Social Security you’ll
receive, what other sources of income
(such as part-time work or consulting)
you might have, your age at retirement,
your spouse’s projected retirement assets,
your retirement lifestyle, and so on. It
might not be easy for you to consider
all these elements and then arrive at a
suitable withdrawal rate, but a financial
professional has the experience, training
and technology to help determine a figure
that could work for you.
These aren’t all the life events that
may lead you to contact a financial
professional, but they should give you a
pretty good idea of the type of assistance
you could expect over time. So, consider
reaching out for the help you need, when
you need it. Doing so could help make
your life easier as you move toward your
financial goals.
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.