IC August 7, 2026

Since May 2007 PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON, SC PERMIT NO. 137 POSTAL PATRON

Volume 22 • Issue 15

FREE

August 7, 2026

Kiawah Island Golf Resort Announces Retirement of President Roger Warren

BY THE KIAWAH ISLAND GOLF RESORT | For The Island Connection

K

iawah Island Golf Resort announces that Roger Warren, president, plans to retire at the end of 2026 following an extraordinary 23-year tenure marked by strong leadership, sustained growth and an unwavering commitment to preserving the property’s distinctive position as one of the premier golf and resort destinations in the United States.

Under his leadership, Kiawah Island Golf Resort has consistently delivered exceptional performance while enhancing the guest experience, strengthening the Kiawah brand and maintaining the unique character that sets the property apart in the luxury hospitality market.

“Roger’s leadership, vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on Kiawah Island Golf Resort. We are extremely grateful for his contributions and look forward to honoring his legacy while identifying the

next leader to guide the resort into the future.” said William H. Goodwin Jr, chairman, Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

“I am deeply thankful to the ownership and board of Kiawah Island Golf Resort for their trust and support over the past 23 years,” said Warren. “Any accomplishments achieved during my tenure were only possible because of the dedication, talent and passion of our executive committee, managers, employees, partners and stakeholders. Serving this organization has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life.”

Kiawah Island Golf Resort has engaged Spencer Stuart, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, to conduct the search for the resort’s next president. The resort and Warren intend to explore opportunities for his advisory support regarding select development projects and transition-related matters.

Project Smoke Alarm Blitz COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF KIAWAH ISLAND | For The Island Connection

T Public Safety Director Craig Harris accepts the award.

he Town of Kiawah Island Public Safety Department has earned official commendation from the St. John’s Fire District after a multi-agency operation successfully secured 140 local households with life-saving fire protection.

Project Smoke Alarm Blitz, a high-impact safety drive focusing on the Betsy Kerrison Parkway corridor, relied on a coordinated strategic alliance between municipal safety officers from the Town of Kiawah and St. John’s Fire District, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, the American Red Cross and the South Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal.

Local Impact and Data Breakdown:

• 140 homes secured – Focused outreach along the critical Betsy Kerrison Parkway corridor.

• 195 alarms installed – Direct residential upgrades to prevent fire-related fatalities.

• 5-agency coalition – Joint deployment maximizing regional emergency resources.

Strengthening Island Resilience: Town safety officials emphasized that the operation represents a major step forward in community preparedness and proactive risk reduction. By protecting local neighborhoods against fire threats, the joint initiative creates a scalable model for future emergency outreach across the island.

Page 2 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

The Early Bird (or Fish) Gets the Worm August Fishing Report PUBLISHERS OF: The Island Eye News The Island Connection SiP Magazine Christian Senger Assistant Publisher Theresa Stratford Editor tmmart89@gmail.com Stacey Nichols Graphic Designer Advertising advertising@mylonews.com Lynn Pierotti Consultant lynn@luckydognews.com Contributors Capt. Geoff Bennett Theresa Stratford Katie Jonjevic Lily Addicott Future submission deadline: August 12 for the August 21 issue PUBLISHED BY Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS For more information, check out LuckyDogNews.com Want to share this paper with a friend? Digital flipbooks of each print issue can be found at LuckyDogNews.com.

Op-eds and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lucky Dog Publishing or its staff.

Old Island Eye, Island Connection Issues Available

BY CAPT. GEOFF BENNETT | For The Island Connection

A

currently holding plenty of sharpnose, bonnethead and ugust brings warm temperatures, but it also blacktip sharks. As an added bonus, soak these big baits delivers fantastic action on the water. To maximize your success, plan your outings around early long enough and you just might hook into a trophy bull redfish. morning or late evening windows when fish are most See you on the water! active. By tailoring your tactics to low-light hours and Since 2009, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleschoosing the right setups, you can beat the heat and stay ton Charter Fishing providing light tackle charters. Clients on a steady bite all month long. choose from a full menu of artificial, live bait and fly fishing When starting at first light, topwater lures are your options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed absolute best option. Plan to arrive at your spot just as and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a the horizon begins to brighten. In the dawn shadows, fish aggressively target surface disturbances, mistaking the safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324rhythmic walk of a topwater plug for a struggling baitfish. This approach is particularly deadly for both redfish 3332, visit his website at charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com. and trout. For maximum action, tie on a Heddon Super Spook Jr. in either chartreuse and black or red and white.

Popping corks are a reliable proAnglers Russell Walton and his son, Adam, from Greeneville. ducer all day long, regardless of the tide phase. They offer unmatched versatility and will draw strikes from nearly every inshore species, including trout, redfish, flounder, ladyfish and sharks. Using a weighted popping cork helps maximize casting distance. Tie an 18-to-24-inch fluorocarbon leader from the cork down to a size one circle hook, and bait up with live shrimp, mud minnows or realistic artificial shrimp. When the cork pulls under, simply reel until you feel the weight of the fish before lifting your rod tip – no hard hookset required.

When the sun reaches its peak, the shark bite stays red-hot. Sharks remain aggressive even in the heat of the afternoon. To combat persistent bait stealers, rig a whole live menhaden on a 7/0 circle hook. Inshore waters are

Town of Kiawah Island

Town of Seabrook Island

Infrastructure and Public Works Committee Tuesday, August 11, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall

Planning Commission Wednesday, August 12, 1:30 p.m.

Seabrook Island Town Hall

Environmental Committee Wednesday, August 12, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall Board of Zoning Appeals Monday, August 17, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall Resiliency Committee Wednesday, August 19, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall Town Council Tuesday, September 1, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall

Public Safety Committee Tuesday, August 18, 10 a.m.

Seabrook Island Town Hall

K iawah Island Town H all 4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway Kiawah Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9166 Seabrook Island Town H all 2001 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9121 info@townofseabrookisland.org

Utility Commission Wednesday, August 19, 8:30 a.m.

Seabrook Island Town Hall

Johns Island Council Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, S.C. 29455 Chairman Christina Gammons White

Discretionary Grants Committee Wednesday, August 19, 10 a.m.

Seabrook Island Town Hall

Charleston County Council 4045 Bridge View Drive North Charleston, S.C. 29405 843-958-4700

Town Council Tuesday, August 25, 2:30 p.m.

Seabrook Island Town Hall

City of Charleston 75 Calhoun St. Charleston, S.C. 29401 843-724-3745

Page 3 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Cell phone Issue on Kiawah is Not Dead

M

BY THERESA STRATFORD | For The Island Connection

any Kiawah Island residents may be wondering if they will ever have a better cell phone connection. Council Member Lance Spencer assured the public at the July 7 Town Council meeting that the cell phone tower issue on Kiawah Island is not dead.

“Like many projects, we’re kind of in a slow period with a lot of bureaucracy and red tape, especially when it comes to the Ocean Course site, which is the first site that the town, the resort and the town council are working through,” he said.

He added that coming up with a site plan and dealing with boundary issues could take up to two years from when you say “go” on a cell tower to when you actually get a cell tower turned on.

Spencer and Planning Director John Taylor are looking at other sites, along with the Ocean Course. They have met with Berkeley Electric, who also owns the site at Vanderhorst. They have also met recently with T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T. He assured the public that the momentum is alive, even though it may not seem like progress has been made. “We’re doing what we think is the appropriate pushing and letting people do their jobs and finding the balance between that. It is a complex thing with a lot of moving parts.”

He continued, “It’s going forward. I wish it had happened five years ago, but it didn’t. It’s

happening now, and we will continue to push that forward.”

Last August, the Town of Kiawah Island passed an ordinance that deals with improving cell towers on the island.

A catalyst for the issue came from the island’s beach patrol. They reported that sometimes they aren’t able to get a simple DHEC form up online for people to sign if they refuse a transport.

The Town’s planning staff has been working on what new communications towers would look like since February of 2025. In early July of 2025, the planning commission approved the recommendations. The changes to the ordinance would set a maximum height of 150 feet, with clarifications and submittal requirements. Public notice requirements would also be a large part of this ordinance.

Currently, there are seven towers on the island.

Six of the seven cell towers are stealth, which means they blend in better with the environment.

Only one is a monopole, which means it is the typical vertical pole made of steel. The stealth poles range from 65 feet to 105 feet. The monopole is 173 feet at Kestrel Court. Five of the current towers operate on 4G, only two support 5G. The current stealth tower at the Ocean Course is 70 feet. That is where they are proposing a monopole to replace it. The question is if it

would go up to 150 feet.

The current work being done is to find out height requirements for new cell towers and the aesthetic of replacing any existing towers on the island. Changes to the ordinance, passed last year, were in reference to raising height restrictions on cell towers to enable better cell coverage on Kiawah Island.

In March of this year, Seabrook Island Town Council also addressed the issue with weak cell service, promising to research the problem and find solutions.

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Page 4 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Award Winning Fleming Open Returns to Seabrook Island, October 6 to 11 For The Island Connection Photo Credit: Maureen Healy

T

he 42nd Annual Fleming Open returns to Seabrook Island, October 6 to 11, following significant recognition from the International Tennis Federation (ITF), which honored the tournament with its 2025 Tournament Recognition Award for outstanding player experience and satisfaction. Building on that achievement, the Fleming Open’s singles and doubles events have been elevated to a United States Tennis Association (USTA) Level 2 sanctioned tournament for 2026. Seabrook Island will welcome approximately 350 to 400 players from across the United States and around the world to compete in men’s and women’s age divisions ranging from 30 to 80, along with Level 1 ITF mixed doubles competition.

Tournament Director Laura Ferreira of Racquet Sports at the Seabrook Island Club, coordinates the event in partnership with the USTA and Tournament Chair Mary Anne Rayfield, along with a dedicated team of Seabrook Island residents who volunteer their time and talents to support tournament operations.

“We’re honored to welcome players from around the world back to Seabrook Island for another exceptional week of competition,” said Ferreira.

“The Fleming Open has earned a reputation for outstanding hospitality, first-class competition and an unmatched sense of community. Our volunteers are the heart of this tournament, and their dedication creates an experience that keeps players returning year after year.”

Ferreira and Rayfield encourage Seabrook Island residents to become part of the tournament by volunteering. Opportunities are available throughout tournament week, and volunteers can register through the volunteer section of the tournament website.

Tournament organizers are also seeking sponsors to help make this year’s event a success. Sponsorship opportunities are available at a variety of levels, each offering valuable promotional exposure and hospitality benefits. Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the tournament can learn more by accessing the sponsorship brochure on the website.

A longstanding tradition of the Fleming Open is its commitment to giving back to the community. This year’s designated beneficiary is Sea Island Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization serving the Charleston area. Founded in 1978, Sea Island Habitat for Humanity is part of Habitat for Humanity International and is the third-oldest Habitat affiliate in the world. The organization works to eliminate substandard hous-

ing through the construction, rehabilitation and preservation of homes while providing education and resources that help families achieve long-term housing stability.

Serving communities throughout Charleston County – from James Island to Edisto – Sea Island Habitat for Humanity has built more than 350 homes and completed more than 500 critical home repairs during its more than 45 years of service.

Tournament registration is now open. The $170 entry fee includes participation in up to two events (up to two doubles events, one singles event and one mixed doubles event, subject to tournament rules), a commemorative tournament pullover and admission to the Friday evening celebration at the Seabrook Island Club featuring cocktails, dinner and music.

Whether you’re a player, sponsor, volunteer or spectator, the 42nd Annual Fleming Open promises an unforgettable week of championship tennis, community spirit and charitable giving. Spectator admission is free and open to the public. Please visit flemingopen.net for all tournament details.

Page 5 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Non-native Land Crabs are on the Move!

BY LILY ADDICOTT | For The Town of Kiawah Island

A

n unusual and non-native species of land crab, Cardisoma guanhumi, is becoming increasingly common in the Charleston area. Historically, blue land crabs were found in estuaries along the Atlantic coast from Brazil to South Florida. In recent years, however, they have expanded their range north into Georgia and the Carolinas. First documented in South Carolina in 2008, more than 150 sightings have been reported statewide since 2022, with many occurring in the Charleston region. Unlike most crabs, blue land crabs spend most of their lives on land near marshes, beaches, trees, drainage pipes, backyards and even developed areas. With deep burrows and tenacious claws, this crab can be difficult to catch under normal conditions. Heavy rainfall can flood crab burrows, forcing crabs to the surface and increasing their chances of being spotted.

Blue land crabs can be quite colorful and visually striking, displaying shades of blue, purple, gray and orange depending on the age and sex of the crab. Crabs have a biological trait called sexual dimorphism, in which the two sexes are distinguished by physical or behavioral characteristics. In this case, adult males are typically bright blue and develop one noticeably larger claw, while females are usually gray to white. Juveniles are often orange or purple before developing their adult colors. At first glance, blue land crabs look similar to fiddler crabs, but grow much larger and molt three times more than most crab species in order to

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reach full size.

Scientists are still working to understand why this non-native crab species has begun calling South Carolina home. By tracking sightings, researchers can better map the species’ distribution, learn how it is adapting to new habitats, and evaluate its potential role in coastal ecosystems. You can help! One of the best ways to answer these questions is through public observations. If you spot a blue land crab, report your sighting to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) by completing the online survey and uploading photos of the crab.

Every observation helps scientists better understand this species and its expanding range.

Report your sighting here: survey123. arcgis.com/share/73155cf36b124961a366a8b116147a54.

Understanding the health of the ecosystems on our Sea Islands is central to the Conservancy of the Sea Islands’ mission. As new species, such as the blue land crab, become more common, it is important to understand how they may influence our coastal habitats and the wildlife that depends on them. Through scientific research, community engagement and education, the Conservancy works to bridge the gap between what we know today and what we need to understand to help protect the future of coastal South Carolina.

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Page 6 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

AROUND THE ISLANDS MULTIPLE DAYS WHAT: Sales Tax Free Weekend WHERE: Various WHEN: Friday, Aug. 7 to Sunday, Aug. 9 FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 WHAT: Food Truck Friday WHERE: Kiawah Island Town Hall, 4475 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy, Johns Island WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Town of Kiawah Island’s Food Truck Friday series features one rotating savory food truck, offering a variety of options - from pizza to global flavors. On select Fridays, guests can also enjoy an additional dessert or beverage truck, adding a sweet or refreshing complement to the weekly lineup.

WHAT: Music on the Green WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

MORE INFO: Free, family-friendly featuring Blackwater Band. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13 WHAT: Jazz Night at Porch Bar WHERE: Andell Inn, 300 Farm Lake View Rd., Kiawah Island WHEN: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

MORE INFO: Stop by the Porch Bar at the Andell Inn every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a Jazz Night featuring a local group.

WHAT: Adults Only Night WHERE: Charleston Aqua Park, 3050 Marlin Rd., Johns Island WHEN: 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Grab a friend, leave the stress of the workweek behind, and dive into an evening of laughter, splashes, and good vibes during our exclusive adult-only sessions. For $30 per person, enjoy 90 minutes of on-water excitement. Don’t forget to bring your closed-toe shoes or water shoes for the ropes course—or grab a pair on-site! And of course, the Trophy Flakes truck will be on hand with refreshing beverages to keep the fun going!

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 WHAT: Food Truck Friday WHERE: Kiawah Island Town Hall, 4475 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy, Johns Island WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Our community calendar keeps you updated on local events. From festivals to workshops to family-friendly gatherings. Stay connected and never miss out on the excitement.

MORE INFO: The Town of Kiawah Island’s Food Truck Friday series features one rotating savory food truck, offering a variety of options - from pizza to global flavors. On select Fridays, guests can also enjoy an additional dessert or beverage truck, adding a sweet or refreshing complement to the weekly lineup.

WHAT: Music on the Green WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

MORE INFO: Free, family-friendly featuring Blackwater Band. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

WHAT: The Marshgrass Mamas WHERE: Seabrook Island Clubhouse, 3771 Seabrook Island Rd., Seabrook Island WHEN: 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: Known for their clever originals, front porch harmonies, and unmistakable Lowcountry charm, The Marshgrass Mamas have created their own unique marshy sound by blending Americana, bluegrass, blues and folk. The Mamas deliver to the stage a memorable live performance and a completely unpredictable evening of fun.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 WHAT: Cars & Coffee WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

MORE INFO: Arrive in your favorite ride or stop by the Village Green to browse unique, antique and other cool cars. Coffee and breakfast will be available for purchase at Java Java.

MONDAY, AUGUST 17 WHAT: Farmers Market WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: A seasonal favorite that grows each year, the Freshfields Village Farmers Market brings together local vendors offering fresh produce, prepared foods and artisan goods that fill the Village Green for the evening.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19 WHAT: SCORE MWR Fabrication WHERE: 217 Fort Johnson Rd., James Island WHEN: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

MORE INFO: Join SCORE and Casual Crabbing with Tia to build manufactured wire reefs (MWRs) that will be used as substrate for larval oysters. All volunteers must RSVP ahead of time in order to

secure your spot as slots are limited: volunteerscdnr. galaxydigital.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 WHAT: Charleston Jazz Orchestra with The Lowcountry Voices WHERE: West Beach Conference Center, 2 Shipwatch Rd., Kiawah Island WHEN: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

MORE INFO: Experience a musical celebration of the Lowcountry! As one of the great cradles of jazz, Lowcountry rhythms and traditions are an integral part of this musical art form. The Charleston Jazz Orchestra weaves together rich history and treasured African and Gullah-Geechie culture and showcases locally inspired arrangements combined with the big band sound. Joining the CJO for this special concert are members of the internationally renowned chorus, Lowcountry Voices.

Known for their harmonious renditions of AfricanAmerican music, including the soul-stirring sounds of Black gospel, spirituals, and jazz, this ensemble’s sound is deeply rooted in the rich heritage of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

MONDAY, AUGUST 24 WHAT: Farmers Market WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: A seasonal favorite that grows each year, the Freshfields Village Farmers Market brings together local vendors offering fresh produce, prepared foods and artisan goods that fill the Village Green for the evening.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 WHAT: Music on the Green WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

MORE INFO: Free, family-friendly featuring Blackwater Band. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 WHAT: Outdoor Barre Workout at Andell Inn WHERE: Andell Inn, 300 Farm Lake View Rd., Kiawah Island WHEN: 11:30 a.m.

MORE INFO: Women of all ages are welcome! It’ll be a workout focused on strengthening, tightening and toning the full body while enjoying the ocean breeze and watching gators swim in the pond. Bring a mat and a set of light weights (1-3lbs). If you don’t have anything, they will have extras.

Page 7 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Town of Seabrook Island Launches New Emergency Alert System, Everbridge

SCDOT Announced Interstate Priority List

BY THE TOWN OF SEABROOK ISLAND For The Island Connection

BY THE JOHNS ISLAND ADVOCATE For The Island Connection

T

he Town of Seabrook Island is switching from Code Red to Everbridge, a mass notification system that delivers critical, local emergency alerts only.

With hurricane season underway, Everbridge will provide timely, area-specific warnings and instructions during weather events and other emergencies.

This system will be used exclusively for emergency notifications.

Sign up or update your contact info: member.everbridge.net/index/99507412926584.

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CDOT has proposed updates to their Interstate priority lists. The SCDOT states that the updates are to “improve in-state connectivity and reduce congestion.” They divided the interstates into the following categories: • The Regional Connectivity Interstate Program is designed to improve the safe and efficient movement of people and goods among South Carolina’s cities, towns and regions. This program prioritizes rural Interstate Highway corridors for future design and construction projects.

• The new Metropolitan Interstate Program addresses reliability and safety on Interstate Highway corridors in South Carolina’s most congested areas. This program prioritizes Interstate Highway corridors in metropolitan areas for planning studies and subsequent future design and construction projects.

Of the nine identified Regional Connectivity Interstate Programs, only one is in our area. It is I-26 from I-95 to Ridgeville and it scored lowest, i.e. it’s ranked number nine. This is despite the significant economic impact to the state due to traffic on this portion of I-26 resulting from the Port and Charleston tourism.

There are 16 projects on the Metropolitan Interstate Program Priority List. Half of the identified projects are in the tri-county area. Also, four of the top five projects are in the tri-county area. This is yet another indication of the overwhelming need to improve our transportation infrastructure.

SCDOT is seeking your input on the priority lists. Comments can be submitted until August 9. Tell them that tri-county interstate projects must be ranked higher because of both our significant economic impact to the state and the tremendous growth we continue to experience.

Page 8 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Photo Credit: Michael Allison/The City of Charleston

Fort Pemberton Park Opens on James Island

Photo Credit: Michael Allison/The City of Charleston

For The Island Connection

A

new park, Fort Pemberton Park, is now open on James Island. The 8.7-acre site along the Stono River is home to a new fishing dock, kayak launch, walking paths and a picnic shelter.

There are separate ADA entrances on either side allowing access for both the upper part of the fort and waterfront portion, according to the city of Charleston.

Keep an eye out for eagles, wood storks, foxes and even the occasional armadillo, the city said.

Prior to becoming a park, the land was a Civil War-era earthwork fort that was built to protect Wappoo Creek, which later became farmland, then private property.

A ribbon cutting took place on July 29 at Fort Pemberton Park located at 221 Yates Ave. in Riverland Terrace.

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Photo Credit: Michael Allison/The City of Charleston

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Page 9 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

It’s easier when you work with Seabrook Island’s Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies C.A.R.E. Scholarship

#1 Sales Team

For The Island Connection

T

he Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA) Conservation Access, Relevancy and Engagement (C.A.R.E.) Committee invites undergraduates, graduate students and recent graduates pursuing careers in natural resources or conservation-related fields, including but not limited to marine biology, biology, wildlife conservation, game management, community engagement, conservation law enforcement, etc., to apply for the C.A.R.E. Scholarship.

Scholarship recipients will receive full funding to attend the 2026 SEAFWA Annual Conference, held October 26 to 30 in Nashville. View application for more information. The deadline to apply is August 14.

Fingerling red drum.

Photo Credit: SCDNR

August and September are Peak Spawning Months for Red Drum in South Carolina

We don’t just sell Seabrook Island, we live, work, and play on Seabrook Island.

Sales Executives, REALTORS® SeabrookRealEstate.com 843.768.3921

BY SCDNR | For The Island Connection

A

ugust and September are peak spawning months for red drum in South Carolina, and successful spawning activity is critical to producing the next generation of red drum.

If you’d like to help the population rebound, give these adult (or bull) drum a break from fishing pressure during these months. They’ll still be around when temperatures dip and spawning ends in October – after they’ve had a chance to contribute to next year’s crop of young fish.

Real Estate Office: 843.768.2560

Page 10 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

TIDE CHART saltwatertides.com

DATE

HIGH TIDE

LOW TIDE

SAT., AUG. 8

HIGH: 4:09 A.M., 4:57 P.M.

LOW: 10:19 A.M., 11:28 P.M.

SUN., AUG. 9

HIGH: 5:21 A.M., 6:04 P.M.

LOW: 11:24 A.M.

MON., AUG. 10

HIGH: 6:29 A.M., 7:06 P.M.

LOW: 12:30 A.M., 12:27 P.M.

TUES., AUG. 11

HIGH: 7:31 A.M., 8:03 P.M.

LOW: 1:27 A.M., 1:27 P.M.

WED., AUG. 12

HIGH: 8:29 A.M., 8:55 P.M.

LOW: 2:19 A.M., 2:24 P.M.

THURS., AUG. 13

HIGH: 9:23 A.M., 9:44 P.M.

LOW: 3:08 A.M., 3:17 P.M.

FRI., AUG. 14

HIGH: 10:15 A.M., 10:30 P.M.

LOW: 3:55 A.M., 4:08 P.M.

SAT., AUG. 15

HIGH: 11:06 A.M., 11:15 P.M.

LOW: 4:38 A.M., 4:58 P.M.

SUN., AUG. 16

HIGH: 11:55 A.M., 11:59 P.M.

LOW: 5:21 A.M., 5:48 P.M.

MON., AUG. 17

HIGH: 12:43 P.M.

LOW: 6:03 A.M., 6:38 P.M.

TUES., AUG. 18

HIGH: 12:43 A.M., 1:31 P.M.

LOW: 6:45 A.M., 7:32 P.M.

WED., AUG. 19

HIGH: 1:28 A.M., 2:19 P.M.

LOW: 7:30 A.M., 8:27 P.M.

THURS., AUG. 20

HIGH: 2:16 A.M., 3:10 P.M.

LOW: 8:18 A.M., 9:23 P.M.

FRI., AUG. 21

HIGH: 3:07 A.M., 4:02 P.M.

LOW: 9:09 A.M., 10:18 P.M.

Letter to Editor: River Road Historic Designation

BY THE JOHNS ISLAND ADVOCATE For The Island Connection

T

he entire length of River Road, from Main Road/Chisolm Road to Bohicket Road/Betsy Kerrison Parkway, is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

River Road was built in the colonial era and was first documented in 1770. The road largely follows the 1770 route, but some segments have been modified. For example, Abbapoola Road and Plantation Pointe Road were part of the original road prior to a realignment of this stretch between 1925 and 1944.

What this designation means is that future improvements along River Road will get a closer look for impacts. The listing triggers involvement from the South Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) on infrastructure projects that use federal dollars as well as increased protections during state and county permitting processes. SHPO is mandated by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. It is a government entity in each state responsible for identifying, evaluating and protecting historic and archaeological resources.

River Road can still be modified, but its historic character must be considered throughout the planning process. The process takes a more finely tuned approach to document and avoid potential impacts.

Page 11 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Municipal Association of South Carolina Honors Seabrook Island with Achievement Award PROVIDED BY THE TOWN OF SEABROOK ISLAND | For The Island Connection nizations face when collaborating with one another to respond to an emergency, the town decided to establish the Disaster Recovery Council as a way to strengthen its community preparedness.

The council engages in yearly training exercises based on real emergencies facilitated (Left to right) Accepting the award is Town Administrator Joe Cronin, Mayor by emergency manBruce Kleinman and Council Member Thomas Hund agement professionals.

These experiences help he Town of Seabrook received a Municthe council identify ipal Achievement Award for its Disaster potential issues and recommend improvements Recovery Council. The town won in the to Seabrook Island’s Comprehensive Emergency 1,001 to 5,000 population category.

Management Plan.

The Town of Seabrook Island’s coastal locaThe council takes advantage of town staff tion makes it vulnerable to hurricanes, flooding expertise and facilities as well as volunteer parand power outages. Because of these threats, and ticipation, which helps keep its funding needs to the challenges that individual community orgaa minimum. It partners with municipal depart-

T

ments, local utilities, homeowners associations, the Seabrook Island Community Emergency Response Team, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and St. John’s Fire District in its efforts.

Future plans include using training scenarios that address emerging risks such as climate-related impacts and infrastructure disruptions, as well as finding more ways to enhance resident preparedness education.

By incorporating the lessons learned from ongoing scenario-based, partnership-driven emergency training, the council places the town in a position to handle future emergencies with clear communication and strong partnerships — all helping to build a more resilient community.

These winning entries represent innovative projects undertaken by Municipal Association member cities and towns. Information and a video about the project are available on the Association’s website, masc.sc (keyword: Achievement Awards).

The Municipal Association of SC initiated the Achievement Awards in 1987 to recognize and encourage innovations and excellence in local government.

Page 12 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Wine Down Wednesday at Old Towne Creek County Park For The Island Connection

W

ine Down Wednesday is back. Spend your evening surrounded by the beauty of the newly-reopened Old Towne Creek County Park. Enjoy live music and a selection of wine in one of Charleston County’s most scenic settings.

Stroll beneath live oaks, take in the marsh views and toast to the perfect midweek escape. Grab a bite from the food truck on site, with a variety of items available for purchase.

Event Schedule: Musicians and food trucks TBA • August 26, 5 to 7 p.m.

• September 9, 5 to 7 p.m.

• September 23, 5 to 7 p.m.

Advance tickets are $20 per person. Sales end the day before each event. Day-of tickets are $25 per person, if not sold out. Ticket price includes wine and live music.

Event supported by Joel Gott Wines.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own tables and chairs. Food will be available for purchase from food truck vendors. Must be 21 to purchase tickets, but under 21 are welcome with a paid chaperone.

Outside alcohol is prohibited. ID is required to be served alcohol.

Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed at all times. Smoking, vaping or tobacco use is prohibited.

Old Towne Creek County Park 1400 Old Towne Road, Charleston, SC 29407 customerservice@ccprc.com 843-795-4386

Page 13 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

Pollinators Count, and So Can You

BY KATIE JONJEVIC | For The Island Connection

H

ave you noticed bees, butterflies, beetles or other insects visiting flowers in your garden or neighborhood? These tiny visitors play an essential role in helping plants reproduce and keeping ecosystems healthy. Through the Great Southeast Pollinator Census, you can turn a few minutes of observation into valuable scientific data.

Created by the University of Georgia, this citizen science project invites people of all ages and experience levels to help researchers better understand pollinator activity across the Southeast. Participants simply observe a flowering plant for 15 minutes and record the insects that visit. The information collected supports pollinator research, conservation, education and future habitat-protection efforts.

This year’s official count days are August 21 and 22, making now a good time to prepare. To participate, choose a flowering plant in a yard, garden, neighborhood, school, park or another outdoor space where insects are active. Using the official Pollinator Census counting sheet, record the different types of insects observed during a 15-minute period. You

may complete one count or conduct several counts throughout the twoday census.

No previous insect knowledge is needed. The counting guide groups pollinators into simple, easy-to-recognize categories, making the census accessible to individuals, families, gardeners, students, community groups and nature enthusiasts.

The census also offers an opportunity to slow down, spend time outdoors and take a closer look at the insects that help gardens and natural spaces thrive. In just 15 minutes, one observation can contribute to a broader understanding of pollinator health across the region.

The project’s educational impact has also extended beyond the census itself. It inspired the children’s book, The Great Pollinator Count by Susan Edwards Richmond, which follows a young girl named Mellie as she participates in a community science project in her school garden. Through her experience, young readers learn how bees, butterflies and other pollinators support healthy ecosystems.

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Page 14 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division Wants You to “Know Your Zone” For The Island Connection

S

outh Carolina residents and visitors can learn about hurricane evacuation zones and their vulnerability to storm surge on South Carolina’s coast with the Know Your Zone interactive map.

It’s very simple to use. Enter your address or the address of your desired location. You can also use the “Use Your Location” button to quickly move to your location. Users can zoom in and out of the map as well as move around to review any other areas of interest.

Know Your Zone also reflects the National Hurricane Center’s predictions, such as storm surges.

The Know Your Zone campaign was developed by the Horry County Emergency Management Department as a result of the information contained in the South Carolina Hurricane Evacuation Study that was released by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2012. Since its creation, all coastal counties in South Carolina have adopted the Know Your Zone campaign as a way to let citizens know the best ways to prepare for the landfall of a major hurricane.

Visit charlestoncounty.gov/departments/ emergency-management/index.php for more information.

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Page 15 • LuckyDogNews.com • August 7, 2026

City Recreation Facility Planned for Johns Island For The Island Connection

T

he City of Charleston is excited to announce a major recreation project launching as part of the city’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan, funded by the $70 million Parks Bond Referendum overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2023.

This represents the first major investment from the bond and signals a significant step forward in expanding access to high-quality recreational amenities across Charleston.

Johns Island: First-Ever City Recreation Facility For the first time, Johns Island residents will have a city-operated recreation facility of their own. Located just off Maybank Highway near the Hayes Park development, the new complex will be approximately 50,000 square feet and include: • A 25-meter by 25-yard indoor pool and adjacent therapy pool • An indoor gymnasium with two full basketball courts • Cardio and group fitness rooms • A multi-purpose room • Two classroom spaces • A catering kitchen • Outdoor pickleball courts • Outdoor basketball courts • An inclusive playground and splash pad “Johns Island has waited a long time for this kind of investment,” said District 3 Council Member Jim McBride. “This project will create an anchor for community life, health and connection on the island.”

Next Steps The facility is being designed by Charleston-based architectural firm LS3P. Charleston City Council is expected to review construction contracts in August. Permitting will take approximately one year, with construction expected to begin next summer and take 18 months to complete. Community engagement will begin this fall, with the city and LS3P hosting concept presentations and public input sessions to gather feedback and incorporate resident priorities into the final designs.

SALT OF THE EARTH An exhibition of 26 watercolors in celebration of America’s 250th THE GIBBES MUSEUM OF ART MAY 22 - SEPTEMBER 27

gibbesmuseum.org

Seabrook Island Village to Host Two Free Fall Workshops For The Island Connection

S

eabrook Island Village will present two free, informative workshops this October at the Seabrook Island Lake House. Both programs are open to the public, and advance registration is required.

Services That Prevent Emergencies Chief Tim Pristatskiy of the St. John’s Fire Department will discuss the department’s commitment to reducing community risk and helping residents stay safe. He will highlight free services available to residents, and attendees will have the opportunity to sign up for these programs during the workshop.

This workshop will be held in Live Oak Hall at the Seabrook Island Lake House on Friday, October 9, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Space is limited to 30 participants.

The Empowered Caregiver: Communicating Effectively and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors Venita Olson of the Alzheimer’s Association will lead this caregiver-focused workshop, offering practical guidance for those supporting someone living with dementia. The session will explore common behavior changes, how those behaviors may serve as a form of communication, non-medical approaches for responding effectively and signs that additional support may be needed.

Local Dementia Support Programs

Coming to Camelot, detail Watercolor, 36” x 24”

marywhyte.com

Sara Perry, executive director of Respite Care Charleston, will share information about local participant programs and caregiver support groups available in the community.

This workshop will take place in Live Oak Hall at the Seabrook Island Lake House on Monday, October 19, from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Registration is required for both events. Register online at seabrookislandvillage.org.

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2625 Jenkins Point Road $3,100,000

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Wooded View/Corner Lot 3 BR | 2 BA | 1,830 SF

Lagoon View 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 2,150 SF

2944 Atrium Villa Drive $875,000

771 Spinnaker Beachhouse $760,000

2469 Racquet Club $475,000

Ocean/Golf View 2 BR | 2 BA | 1,080 SF

Beach Access 2 BR | 2 BA | 1,208 SF

Lagoon View 2 BR | 2 BA | 1,122 SF

Call our exceptional team of Seabrook Island real estate experts today for a behind-the-gate tour of our beautiful private island.

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