Kiawah Urges Residents to be Safe Online
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
The email in question went to many community members and supposedly came from Kiawah Island’s Mayor Bradley Belt. It indicated that the Town was seeking money to be spent on a certain initiative. The email even named the finance director for the Town, as well. It seemed legit, right?
Wrong.
The email was a scam. At the March 4 Kiawah Island Town Council meeting, Belt explained that their IT team studied the cybersecurity issue and determined that there was no indication that any email accounts had been hacked.
“Apparently, they scraped email addresses off the Town website and other websites within Kiawah and then used some kind of algorithm to know that I was in a position of authority so the email could look legit,” he said. “The actual email address that it was sent from was not mine, plus there were a number of grammar issues.”
Nevertheless, the Town took the cybersecurity attempt seriously. They
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New Resiliency Committee will address looming issues on Kiawah
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
Resiliency is the act of being able to endure and adapt successfully during and after a challenging experience. It means being able to recover quickly from something difficult. It measures toughness and capacity to withstand that with which you cannot control.
When the Town of Kiawah Island decided to create a formal Resiliency Committee, it was met with overall support.
At the recent Town Council Meeting on March 4, one public comment expressed by a resident was that they were pleased with this new initiative and excited to see how they can work with other Kiawah entities, like KICA, on resiliency issues.
Kiawah Island Town Council Member Madeleine Kaye introduced the Resiliency Committee at the Town
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Celebrate Earth Day with the Kiawah Conservancy
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
Now in its 13th year, the 2025 Earth Day Celebration, hosted by the Kiawah Conservancy, will take place Friday, April 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Night Heron Park.
This community-oriented and family-friendly event usually attracts about 400 people from all over the Lowcountry. Katie Jonjevic, educational outreach specialist with the Kiawah Conservancy, explained that some of the highlights will include live music from the Shem Creek Boogie Band, hands-on experiences from the South Carolina Aquarium and the Heron Park Nature Center and flight demonstrations by the Center for Birds of Prey.
The local organizations participating this year to talk about their environmental efforts include: Audubon South Carolina; Barrier Island Environmental Education Center at Camp St. Christopher; Berkeley Electric Cooperative; Charleston Area Beekeepers Association; Charleston Parks Conservancy; Clemson University; John's Island Library; Kiawah Conservancy's Junior Explorers; Keeper of the Wild; Kiawah Island Golf Resort; Kiawah Island Shorebird Stewards; Kiawah Island Turtle Patrol; Let's Walk; Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network; Seabrook Island Birders; Sea Island Habitat for
Humanity; South Carolina Aquarium; South Carolina Oyster Restoration and Enhancement; and the Town of Kiawah Island’s Environmental Committee. Also in attendance will be a variety of local artists and artisans showcasing their incredible talents and selling their work. Notable artists include basket weaver Marie Wine and Old Salty B. Woodworks, among many others. Various options for food and drink will be available for purchase as well. For kids, the Kiawah Conservancy will have a sign-up table open for their Junior Explorers. In addition, the Kiawah Conservancy mascot, Bob E. Cat, will make an appearance; a mini-golf course will be available and Crosswind Farm will set up their mobile petting zoo. Kids can also enjoy free face painting, hair tinsel and more.
The children's librarian from the John’s Island Library will be at the festival to talk about the various programs they offer and how the community can get involved.
“We've collaborated with the library in a variety of ways in the past, like recording read-aloud videos, hosting an in-person Junior Explorers event at the library and participating in the seed library program that they offer as well,” Jonjevic said.
New to the Earth Day Festival
A previous Earth Day Celebration.
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Cybersecurity
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suggested that residents take advantage of the Charleston County Library’s free Cybersecurity Basics course. There was one in March that took place at the St. Andrews Hurd Library in West Ashley. There will be another one offered on May 21 at the Mount Pleasant Library from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Here are four easy steps from the Department of Homeland Security that will help you stay safe online:
• Recognize and Report Phishing – Recognize the common signs of a phishing email. Phishing occurs when cybercriminals try to get people to open links, emails or attachments that could request personal information, which could infect devices. Cybercriminals could use emotional language. Be sure to look for misspellings and grammatical errors. Resist clicking on anything in a suspicious email, even the “unsubscribe” link. Just delete it.
• Use strong passwords – Never use simple email addresses that a cybercriminal could easily guess. Creating strong passwords with the help of a password manager is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from someone stealing your data. Make your passwords random, long and unique.
• Turn on multi factor authentication – Multi Factor authentication, or MFA, gives extra security by confirming identity when logging into our accounts. MFA could be a code texted to a phone or by sending an unlocking key through an app. Even if your password is stolen, the cybercriminal won’t be able to get into your account without access through MFA. To turn on MFA, simply access your profile and turn on “two-factor authentication” in your settings.
• Update software – Make sure you always install software updates and turn on automatic updates. The reason? Those updates often fix security risks. Keeping software up to date is an easy way to stay safe online. Don’t just click “remind me later” when a notification comes up to update software. Install the updates as soon as possible.
Kiawah Now Accepting Tax Grant Applications
Each year, the Town of Kiawah Island accepts applications from organizations vying for funding from the Town’s 2% State Accommodations Tax Funds. The applications will be reviewed by the Town’s State Accommodations Tax Committee and qualified applications will be forwarded to the Ways and Means for recommendation to the Town Council with recommendations for funding. There will be at least two windows per calendar year for applicants to apply for funding. The deadline this time is April 17. Once forwarded, recommendations for funding will be evaluated by the Town Council of Kiawah Island and funding approval may then be granted. The Town encourages and prioritizes applications from organizations located or operating within the Town, with the planned use of funds within the town. However, if funds exist, the Town will consider funding organizations located outside of the town, for qualified projects within or in close proximity to the town.
CONTRIBUTORS
Theresa Stratford Martha Zink
If you ever question an email from the Town of Kiawah Island, simply call the Town to be sure it is something legit before you click on any link or take action. Call the Town at 843-768-9166.
Earth Day
(continued from page 1)
this year will be the effort by the Town of Kiawah Island’s Environmental Committee to get more people to sign the Bobcat Pledge and to spread education about coyotes. Town Council Member Madeleine Kaye explained at the last Town Council meeting that the committee plans to hand out educational material about coyotes and get Kiawah Island residents to sign the Bobcat Pledge at the Earth Day Festival event.
Kiawah Island is known for its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. In all, there are 15 different habitat types on
Kiawah Island supporting 18 species of mammals, over 250 species of resident and migratory birds, 30 species of reptiles and amphibians, 67 endangered and threatened species, including coyotes and bobcats, and over 23 unique plant communities.
Everyone in the public is welcome to attend the Kiawah Conservancy’s Earth Day Celebration. Visitors coming from off-island can tell the security gate that they are attending the Earth Day Celebration at Night Heron Park to receive a visitor’s pass.
Interested organizations can learn more and apply at kiawahisland.org/ satax_grant_application.php.
The Kiawah Conservancy is a chartered nonprofit grassroots organization that was established by island residents in 1997 to preserve the natural habitats of our area. The Conservancy has the capability to be a holder of land and conservation easements and as such, it acts as a land trust. In this regard, the Kiawah Conservancy is an accredited member of the Land Trust Alliance. Since its inception in 1997, the Kiawah Conservancy has preserved 79 properties that total over 3,869 acres of sea island habitat.
TOWN OF KIAWAH
Arts Council Board
Monday, April 7, 9 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Audit Committee
Monday, April 7, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Environmental Committee
Wednesday, April 9, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Resiliency Committee
Wednesday, April 16, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Board of Zoning Appeals
Monday, April 21, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
TOWN OF SEABROOK
Environment & Wildlife Committee
Thursday, April 10, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, April 15, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Town Council (Special Called Meeting)
Wednesday, April 16, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Utility Commission
Thursday, April 17, 8:30 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Community Promotion & Engagement
Thursday, April 17, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Council meeting. She said that they wanted it to be representative and inclusive of Kiawah Island. She added that they will have representatives from KICA, the Kiawah Island Resort, the Town of Kiawah Island’s Planning Commission and The Kiawah Conservancy.
“This committee will require a lot of coordination,” she said.
“We are going to have a very aggressive agenda addressing stormwater management, sea level rise, watershed planning, the Go Green initiative, standards we put around bulkheads and living shorelines and erosion control – to name a few.” Committee functions include:
• Guide the Kiawah community through the implementation of recommendations outlined in the Town’s Comprehensive Marsh Management Plan and the 2018 Sea Level Rise Report.
• Ensure a continuing focus on Go Green initiatives.
• Promote community awareness and engagement through public education campaigns, community workshops and collaboration with local organizations and residents.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of resilience initiatives by tracking key performance indicators, conducting after-action reviews and making recommendations for improvements.
• Study and report on resiliency and/or sustainability issues as may be referred by Town staff, Town Council or self-generated.
• Support efforts to maintain a healthy island ecosystem, including ponds, the marsh and maritime forests.
• Provide and/or support educational programs to increase public awareness of Kiawah’s ecosystems.
• Explore State, Federal and/or NGO resiliency funding opportunities that could supplement TOKI’s resiliency initiatives.
• Request, review and selectively approve applications or funding of resiliency initiatives. Approved initiatives will be presented to the Town Council for funding approval.
“Over the last 10 years, Kiawah has outpaced other communities similar to ours in terms of resiliency efforts – then will go dormant and then will be active – and this will be an opportunity to take the lead again and become one of the benchmarks of the east coast,” Kaye added.
Council Member Luke Farrell suggested that Kaye consider adding a Seabrook Island resident to the committee since they experience many of the same issues, especially in terms of pollution in the rivers, wastewater treatment and Captain Sams Spit. “Maybe this will help to bridge the gap with some of those issues,” Farrell said.
The Committee was approved unanimously by the Council.
Madeleine Kaye.
Rooms with Views
THE 2025 ARTS ETC ART AND HOUSE TOUR IS READY FOR VISITORS
BY MARTHA ZINK For The Island Connection
The long awaited Art and House Tour, which will include four beautiful houses, takes place from 1-5 p.m. on April 11.
One of the homes is in the Preserve on Kiawah Island and is a blend of classic and contemporary architecture, designed to maximize natural light as well as views of the marsh and the pool. The main floor includes a living room, dining area with an expansive glass wine cellar and beyond the kitchen, a barrel vaulted billiard room with a statement bar. The primary bedroom is on the first floor, with a view through the glass shower to a soaking tub and the marsh. There are three bedrooms and baths on the second floor and an office situated in the turret beneath a grand cupola.
A second home overlooks the River Course with views of the green and lagoon from almost every room, facilitated by a stepped down patio and pool. The primary bedroom is at one end of the house, and at the other is the kitchen/breakfast area with a large opening to the outdoors. Connecting these two wings is a living room featuring organic light fixtures. There is
a guest suite above the garage, and the second floor has a bedroom in each wing connected by a family room. The colors and artwork are inspired by the owner’s previous homes in Maine and Bermuda.
The third home in Ocean Park is designed to emphasize ocean breezes and the Ocean Course in the distance.
The airy and light-filled great room and primary bedroom are on the main floor; the chef’s kitchen has an unusual black granite island flanking bar area. The island provides elegant storage, as does the adjacent butler’s pantry/laundry room. There is a cozy reading nook at the entrance to the second floor, where three bedrooms all open to an outside deck, encouraging interaction with nature. Stately live oak trees and magnificent scenery surround the gorgeous pool. Finally, situated on 12 acres fronting Bohicket Creek, a contemporary farmhouse style estate is sited amongst centuries-old live oaks, a restored forest, flower and vegetable gardens, an orchard and a chicken coop. The main house is reminiscent of the 1838 farmhouse originally on the site and many elements in the main
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• Knowledgeable professionals actively sell your items
• Items are well-kept and showcased for shoppers
• Avoid high costs and hassles of storage units
• Large, clean, well-lit, climate controlled facility
• Open to the public, designers, dealers, regular open-house events
• 10,000+ email subscribers hear about new deliveries and events
• Centrally located with plenty of parking (two doors down from Ferguson’s Bath/Kitchen & Lighting)
Tuesdays 10-2pm
Personalized Healthcare on the Islands
ROPER ST. FRANCIS HEALTHCARE DELIVERS UNIQUE PRIMARY CARE SERVICES FOR ISLAND RESIDENTS
Nestled among the pristine landscapes of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, life moves at a different pace. Here, the gentle hush of ocean waves and the shade of ancient oaks create a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life: peace, wellness, and community. For residents who expect the same level of excellence in their healthcare as they do in their surroundings, Roper St. Francis Healthcare delivers. With premier primary care services located in Freshfields Village and Crowne Commons, Roper St. Francis provides concierge-style and traditional primary care that blends expertise with the convenience patients deserve.
Signature Primary Care at Freshfields Village Offers Medicine Tailored to You
For those who desire highly personalized care and direct access to their physician, Roper St. Francis Physician Partners
Signature Primary Care offers a conciergestyle experience designed to keep you at your peak health. Dr. Vanessa McPherson, a board-certified family physician with nearly 30 years of experience, leads the practice with a holistic approach to wellness.
Signature Primary Care is built around comprehensive, proactive medicine. Patients receive extended appointment times, same or next-day availability, and 24/7 access to Dr. McPherson. A hallmark of this program is the Signature Wellness Exam, a two-visit, in-depth assessment that goes beyond standard check-ups. Advanced diagnostic screenings, including vision, hearing, lung function, and body composition analysis, help create a full picture of your health.
Beyond routine medical care, Dr. McPherson provides personalized nutrition plans, mental health resources, and coordination with top specialists. Whether managing chronic conditions or optimizing wellness, Signature Primary Care ensures patients receive thorough, uninterrupted attention in an intimate and familiar setting. Comprehensive Walk-In Care at Crowne Commons When You Need It, Where You Need It
For islanders who prefer a walk-in option, the Roper St. Francis Primary Care office at Crowne Commons provides flexibility without sacrificing quality. Whether it’s a sudden illness, an unexpected injury, or a routine check-up, this location offers expert primary care with the convenience of drop-in visits.
Dr. Brian Dewhirst, Dr. Julia Isom, and Dr. Margaret Roth lead this practice with a patient-centered philosophy. Dr. Dewhirst, a Kansas native and Alpha Omega Alpha honors graduate, values the power of education in medicine, ensuring his patients are active participants in their health decisions. He specializes in preventive medicine, chronic disease management, and geriatric care, making him an ideal partner for those looking to maintain long-term wellness.
Dr. Isom, a Charleston native, brings a global perspective to local healthcare, having participated in medical missions from Honduras to El Salvador. Her focus includes women’s health and postpartum support, making her a compassionate advocate for patients at all stages of life.
Dr. Roth provides primary care throughout all stages of life, emphasizing early recognition and prevention of disease. Her care philosophy centers on creating a partnership with her patients and building long-term relationships to provide personalized care. Her special interests include preventive healthcare, hypertension, diabetes, and postpartum and breastfeeding support.
With a team approach and a commitment to accessibility, the Crowne Commons location ensures patients receive quality, timely care when they need it most. Primary Care at Freshfields Drive Continues a Tradition of Excellence
For island residents seeking a more traditional primary care experience, Roper St. Francis Physician Partners Primary Care at Freshfields Drive offers expertise rooted in deep community ties. Dr. Sasha Perez and Dr. Jeanne Lumpkin provide comprehensive care with a focus on long-term wellness and prevention.
Dr. Perez, a Johns Island native, returned to her home community after training at the Medical University of South Carolina. Fluent in Spanish and passionate about healthcare access, she has served in free medical clinics across South Carolina. Dr. Perez is dedicated to empowering her patients through education and collaborative care.
Dr. Lumpkin’s path to medicine began with a life-changing medical mission to Haiti, where she discovered her passion for serving others. Board-certified in family medicine, she emphasizes preventive health,
nutrition, and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Her commitment to patient-centered care ensures that every individual receives thoughtful, personalized treatment tailored to their lifestyle and goals.
A Commitment to Community Wellness That Extends Beyond the Office
At Roper St. Francis Healthcare, the mission extends beyond individual patient visits. The organization is committed to ensuring high-quality healthcare is seamlessly woven into the fabric of island life. With Signature Primary Care for a concierge experience, Walk In Care at Crowne Commons for flexible access, and traditional Primary Care at Freshfields Drive, island residents can choose the level of care that best suits their needs.
Whether you’re seeking the attentive, tailored approach of concierge medicine, the ease of walk-in visits, or a trusted longterm healthcare partnership, Roper St. Francis Healthcare provides a spectrum of care options designed for those who value excellence, accessibility, and peace of mind.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit rsfh.com or contact one of our locations directly. To schedule an appointment at Roper St. Francis Physician Partners Signature Primary Care, call 843-724-1900. To schedule an appointment at Roper St. Francis Physician Partners Primary Care office at Crowne Commons, call (843) 203-2280, and call (843) 768-4800 to schedule an appointment at Roper St. Francis Physician Partners Primary Care at Freshfields Drive. Because when it comes to your health, you deserve nothing but the best, right here, close to home.
Vanessa McPherson, MD
Margaret Roth, MD
Brian Dewhirst, MD
Sasha Perez, MD
Julia Isom, MD
Jeanne Lumpkin, MD
Personalized Healthcare on the Islands
Nurturing Nature
THE BETSY KERRISON NATURE AREA IS UNDERWAY
BY JENNIFER WILSON
For The Island Connection
The Kiawah Conservancy is excited about the preservation and conservation plan for three adjoining properties along Betsy Kerrison Parkway. These properties— comprising the former Rosebank Farms site (4368 Betsy Kerrison Parkway), 4346 Betsy Kerrison Parkway and 4360 Betsy Kerrison Parkway—span over 87 acres of upland and marsh habitats. This conservation effort will safeguard vital wildlife corridors and natural spaces for both local and migratory species.
At the core of the Kiawah Conservancy’s mission is a steadfast commitment to preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of our sea islands while fostering community engagement on environmental issues. After months of planning and negotiation, the Conservancy is excited to share its vision for the future of these properties, which includes habitat restoration, critical land management, and the development of public spaces featuring informational signs, a trail system, native gardens and sweetgrass basket stands.
As part of the restoration process,
the removal of dilapidated migratory housing on the 4368 Betsy Kerrison Parkway site is scheduled to begin at the end of March, followed by the removal of hazardous and diseased grand trees (laurel oaks). These efforts are necessary to improve ecosystem health, enhance the site’s suitability for native wildlife and ensure public safety.
Hop to It
ENJOY EASTER AT KIAWAH ISLAND GOLF RESORT
BY BRYAN HUNTER
For The Island Connection
Kiawah Island Golf Resort has developed a strong tradition of celebrating Easter in grand style that is fun and memorable for the entire family. When spring ushers in delightful weather, there is never a better time to explore the island and the resort’s abundant activities.
Easter To-Go
Leave all the work to us with a chef-prepared Easter meal. Executive Banquet Chef Alex Ojeda and our banquet team have created a menu of traditional favorites available for carry-out. Choose a complete full meal featuring either Spiral Cut Ham or Sliced Beef Tenderloin.
Mingo Point Oyster Roast & BBQ
April 16 & April 23 | Seatings at 4 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.
Experience Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s longest-running tradition and an authentic Lowcountry social custom. Guests of all ages can enjoy feasting on fresh oysters roasted over an open fire along with BBQ and traditional sides, plus family fun, live music and activities.
Easter Sunday Brunch in Grand Oaks in The Sanctuary Buffet from 10:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Join us for a memorable Easter Sunday feast presenting a tantalizing variety of food and drink in the Grand Oaks Ballroom at The Sanctuary. Enjoy culinary displays celebrating all that spring has to offer, featuring chef-attended cooking stations and our spring pastry and confectionery presentation. Little ones will delight in a special separate children’s buffet that will also include games and arts and crafts, as well as a special visit from Hop the Bunny.
Easter Sunday at Jasmine Porch
Breakfast, 6:30.-10:15 a.m. | Easter Holiday Buffet, Noon until 7 p.m.
Enjoy a memorable brunch including a spectacular ocean view and live music while indulging in Lowcountry favorites created by Chef Kyle Bowling and the culinary team at Jasmine Porch.
Easter Sunday Buffet at The Ocean Course
Multiple seatings: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. in The Atlantic Room and noon and 3 p.m. in the PGA Room
Celebrate the bounty of spring at the Ocean Course with Chef John Ondo’s lavish buffet, a bloody mary and mimosa bar and the East Coast’s most dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Reservations required: 843-266-4085
For details on booking Easter dining and enjoying other special holiday activities at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, visit kiawahresort.com/holiday-events/easter.
Additionally, an ongoing restoration initiative will take place over the next several years, including the planting of a variety of native trees, shrubs and flowers to restore and enhance biodiversity. These plantings will help revitalize local habitats, support pollinators and provide essential food and shelter for local wildlife.
The property is also home to a colony of feral cats that could be impacted by the upcoming restoration work. To ensure both their safety and the protection of native wildlife, the Kiawah Conservancy is working to humanely relocate these cats to the Bear Greer Memorial Cat Sanctuary, a division of the Charleston Animal Society in Ravenel, South Carolina. This sanctuary provides a permanent, protected home for undomesticated, unadoptable and homeless cats, aligning with the Conservancy’s commitment to ethical animal management.
Through the preservation and restoration of these critical habitats, the Kiawah Conservancy is fostering a sanctuary for native wildlife, protecting diverse flora and fauna and maintaining the scenic beauty that defines our sea islands. This conservation initiative is part of the Conservancy’s broader mission to safeguard the natural wonders that make this region so unique.
For more information about the Kiawah Conservancy’s projects and ways to support its mission, visit kiawahconservancy.org.
Rendering.
around the islands...
ONGOING
WHAT: The Charleston Festival
WHERE: Various
WHEN: March 13 to April 13
MORE INFO: Historic Charleston Foundation has celebrated houses, history, and culture through its annual spring festival since its founding in 1947. As the Foundation’s largest fundraising and educational event, after 78 years the Festival has evolved into a holistic celebration of Charleston’s history, architecture, culture, and community. Now affectionately known as The Charleston Festival, this month-long event will continue to present House & Garden Tours and engaging lectures, in addition to a menu of new programs and venues to explore for 2025.
WHAT: Credit One Charleston Open
WHERE: Credit One Stadium, Daniel Island
WHEN: March 29 to April 6
MORE INFO: Celebrating its 25th year in Charleston, the award-winning tournament marks the start of the Hologic WTA Tour clay court season and takes place annually at Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island.
WHAT: Sea Island Farmers Market
WHERE: 2024 Academy Rd., John’s Island
WHEN: Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: A year-round delight for locals and visitors alike this market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods and handmade crafts. The perfect spot to start your weekend with a basket full of farm-fresh goodies and unique finds.
WHAT: Charleston City Market Night Market
WHERE: Charleston City Market
WHEN: Friday and Saturday night, 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., from March – December
MORE INFO: The Night Market is located between Church Street and East Bay Street. It provides the opportunity to discover quality, unique, local and handcrafted items.
WHAT: Weekend Wine-Down
WHERE: Deep Water Vineyard, 6775 Bears Bluff Rd., Wadmalaw Island
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Attendees can expect tastings ($15 gets you a tasting of 6 samples of the vineyard's wine and a souvenir stemless glass), drinks, food trucks, live music, and more.
SATURDAY, APRIL 5
WHAT: Cooper River Bridge Run
WHERE: Coleman Blvd., Mt Pleasant WHEN: 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: The annual 10-K race includes worldclass competition in a unique setting with unparalleled participant satisfaction. The race promotes continuous physical activity and a healthy lifestyle through education and opportunity.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
WHAT: Piano Bar
WHERE: The Sandcastle, 1 Shipwatch Rd., Kiawah Island WHEN: 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Not meant to be concerts, Piano Bars are to enjoy with friends and offer an opportunity to meet neighbors outside your circle for some island socializing. Bring your beverage of choice and a snack to tide you over.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10
WHAT: Jazz Night
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Jazz Night is held every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 6 to 8 pm at the Porch Bar of the Andell Inn. Guests of the Andell Inn and others can enjoy live music performances from local Charleston groups in a cozy atmosphere.
FRIDAY, APRIL 11
WHAT: Kiawah Art & House Tour
WHERE: Various WHEN: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The tour includes three exclusive homes on Kiawah Island and one nearby riverfront home. All proceeds benefit Arts, etc. and its mission of providing arts education to the students on Johns and Wadmalaw Islands. Details and tickets ($75 each) can be found on the Arts, etc. website, kiawahartsetc.org.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
WHAT: The Kiawah Art Guild's Spring Art Show & Sale
WHERE: Kiawah Island Town Hall
WHEN: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: This event is open to the public and would be of interest to enjoyers and collectors of original works by Lowcountry artists. The Kiawah Art Guild was established in 1991 as an organization to promote artists and art education in the community. Membership is open to all Kiawah Island residents and property owners.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
WHAT: 19th Annual Blues by the Sea WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Blues by the Sea is back. Bring a chair, picnic blanket, and cooler to enjoy the sounds of music by the sea. Lineup information coming soon.
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
WHAT: Charleston RiverDogs Home Game (Dog Day Tuesday)
WHERE: Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park WHEN: 7:05 p.m.
MORE INFO: On “Dog Day Tuesdays” the ballpark is open to canines, so bring your pups along.
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
WHAT: Denim & Diamonds Event
WHERE: Marsh & Magnolia, 404 King St., Suite 101, Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Guests can personalize denim jackets and tote bags with on-site embroidery and be among the first to shop the launch of Marsh & Magnolia’s new Sky Blue felt hat. The event will also feature jewelry from Created by Alice Marcuz, and Tipsy Spritzers will be serving drinks throughout the night. Appointments for embroidery and hat customization can be pre-booked with a $75 deposit, applied to purchases, or attendees are welcome to walk in and join the fun.
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
WHAT: Archaeological Excavation
WHERE: Heyward-Washington House, 87 Church St., Charleston WHEN: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Visit the Heyward-Washington House for a unique opportunity to witness an archaeological field school and dig in action. Located in the garden behind the house, visitors are invited to explore the dig site. Guests will experience an archaeological dig firsthand and see excavations of one of the earliest documented parts of colonial Charleston. Reservations are not required. Field school is weather dependent. Call 843-722-2996 if there are any weather concerns on the day of your visit.
SATURDAY, APRIL 19
WHAT: Cars & Coffee
WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: The monthly Cars & Coffee event happens on the third Saturday of every month, showcasing unique cars and offering the opportunity to purchase coffee from Java Java.
house reflect that style. On the main floor is a two-story living room, dining area, kitchen and scullery, cozy den and primary bedroom. All have views of the lawn, outdoor dining, infinity pool and Bohicket Creek. Upstairs are an office/ den and two ensuite bedrooms.
The adjacent cabana has an outdoor kitchen and living room, a ground floor interior living room with wet bar and art wall, plus a second floor bedroom and bath. A slate pathway connects the cabana to the garden, pickleball court and a two-story garage. The second floor of the garage also has an ensuite bedroom. Throughout the home, art is the driving force, and all the finishes and lighting are designed to highlight the vibrant modern art.
In conjunction with the House Tour there is an online auction which includes incredible art and exciting experiences. Bidding is open from April 1 through April 11, and during that time the art work will be displayed at First National Bank, the Presenting Sponsor of the House Tour, in Freshfields Village. Both tickets for the House Tour and bidding opportunities on the Auction items can be found at kiawahartsets. org. The Auction will close at 4 p.m. on April 11, the day of the House Tour. Winning bidders can pick up their treasures that day from 4 until 6 p.m. at FNB or arrange for a later pick up with our auction director. Bidding does not require attendance on the House Tour.
HOLY WEEK and EASTER
MONDAY, APRIL 14
Holy Eucharist at 5:30pm
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
Holy Eucharist at noon followed by a luncheon
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
Lenten Supper and Poetry at 6:00pm
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
Liturgy for Maundy Thursday at 5:30pm
FRIDAY, APRIL 18
Liturgy for Good Friday at noon
SATURDAY, APRIL 19 at Grace Chapel, Rockville The Great Vigil of Easter 7:00pm
SUNDAY, APRIL 20
EASTER DAY
The Sunday of the Resurrection 8:00am & 10:30am Easter Egg Hunt at 9:30am
BY CAPT. GEOFF BENNETT
Spring has arrived! With days full of sun and temperatures holding in the 70s, our fishery is rapidly changing with many new signs of life. Trout and flounder are entering the mix, and anglers now have several species to target instead of just spooky redfish. Bait is filling our waters, and the fish are hungry!
Redfish are no longer focused simply on preservation but are becoming predators again. Anglers should consider using artificial plastic lures that mimic bait fish. One good choice would be “jerk shad” lures, which have become very popular and are available in a wide variety of colors. I’ve been finding that silver hues have been working best, although I’ll occasionally throw a darker color when water clarity is poor.
Having woken from their winter slumber, the trout are active again. Fishermen should focus on grassy banks and oyster beds when targeting these fish. It’s time to break out the popping corks again. Try fishing a 3-inch D.O.A. plastic shrimp lure suspended 2 feet underneath a popping cork. The D.O.A. shrimp come in several weights, but I prefer their one-fourth ounce model. The
Glow/Gold color is a great choice. Often considered our tastiest fish, flounder are a frequent target. We’ve been catching them mostly when fishing with mud minnows on the bottom or mud minnows under popping corks. You’ll need to focus on structures when targeting flounder. Old pilings and docks are good places to prospect. Remember that flounder will hug the bottom in hopes of ambushing their prey, so you’ll need to keep that bait down on or close to the bottom.
See you on the water!
Capt. Geoff Bennett operates Charleston Charter Fishing providing light tackle and fly fishing charters. Clients choose from a full menu of fly rods, artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at charlestoncharterfishing. com, or email him at captain@ charlestoncharterfishing.com.
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For The Island Connection
Photo: Billy and Dina Whitley from Charlotte with a nice redfish.
St John’s Wednesday Farmers Market set to reopen
BY JACK BARNETT For The Island Connection
St John’s Wednesday Farmers Market is kicking off the new season on April 9. Now in its third year, this lovely outdoor market will operate every Wednesday from 3 to 6 p.m. throughout the spring and summer. Area vendors will provide beautiful and unique artisan items, food trucks and fresh local fruits, vegetables and flowers each week.
Set on the historic campus of St. John’s Episcopal Church, at 3673 Maybank Highway just off Bohicket Road, the market is centrally located for all communities on Johns Island, Wadmalaw, Kiawah and Seabrook. Vendor Stalls will be set up in the grove located behind the church next to Walton Hall. There is ample parking, and restrooms are available for shoppers and vendors.
“We are excited as we head into our third year and continue to bring farmers and vendors to St. John’s and the wider community,” said Clark Cromwell, director of parish life, who
has spearheaded the market.
“There is currently no mid-week market option available on John’s Island for local farmers and craftspeople. We are delighted to fill that void and welcome neighbors and visitors to the Angel Oak tree and to the serenity and beauty of St. John's.”
St. John’s Episcopal Church was established in 1734 and is now in its 290th year of continuous worship and service to the people of Johns, Wadmalaw, Seabrook and Kiawah Islands. The church is part of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina and the worldwide Anglican Communion, with the Reverend Canon Callie Walpole as Rector.
For more information about the Wednesday farmers market or to apply to become a vendor, please go to StJohns1734. org, or call the church office at 843-9745593. You can also email Clark Cromwell at ccromwell@StJohns1734.org and follow the market on Facebook at facebook.com/ islandepiscopaliansfarmersmarket.
A National Salute FORT MOULTRIE AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE CIVIL WAR
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie
National Historical Park will hold a special weekend event on Saturday and Sunday, April 12 and 13, to commemorate the ending of the American Civil War. Visitors of all ages can learn about historic Charleston. There will be an encampment, musket firing demonstrations and programs from park rangers and historians. This year marks the 160th anniversary of the end of the American Civil War. Historians will be in period clothing portraying soldiers and civilians. There will be musket firing demonstrations at noon and 2 p.m. on April 12. Visitors can assist in raising and lowering the US flag and join specialized talks about the beginning and end of the Civil War. Saturday will be a fee-free day, and park fees will resume on Sunday.
Fort Moultrie is located at 1214
Middle Street on Sullivan’s Island, and the visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The park represents the history of static seacoast defense in the United States, from the American Revolution to the end of World War II. The park is open daily, and there is a site fee. For more information call 843-883-3123, visit nps.gov/fosu or follow on Facebook. To visit Fort Sumter, you will need to contact Fort Sumter Tours for ferry tickets at fortsumtertours.com.
More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 430+ national park sites and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create closeto-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
