Wish Granted?
STATE LAW ADDS NEW PROVISION TO GRANT GUIDELINES
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
Mayor Bruce Kleinman expressed some disappointment in the new state registration requirements needed for the Community Promotion Grants and the Environment and Wildlife Conservation Grants.
The organizations are now required to prove appropriate registration. Kleinman said that South Carolina now requires it under state law. Town Council had to approve the new language in the January 28 Town Council meeting.
The new provision in the grants guidelines reads: “Pursuant to the South Carolina Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act (S.C. Code of Laws Title 33, Chapter 56), all charitable organizations that solicit contributions or have contributions solicited on their behalf must register with the South Carolina Secretary of State’s Office on an annual basis unless they fall under one of the statutory exemptions. Applicants must provide a copy of their current registration or exemption with their application.”
Three other provisions for grants are:
1. Is determined by the Internal Revenue Service to be a tax-exempt organization pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of
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Time to Increase the EV Charging Rate
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
As promised at the end of July 2024, Seabrook Island Council decided to reassess the rates at the beginning of the year for the EV chargers at Town Hall.
Toward the end of the summer last year, the Town set the EV charging rate at cost plus 17.65%. At that time, Seabrook Island Town Administrator Joe Cronin just wanted to recoup the cost of electricity. That meant that they would be breaking even at 85% X 1.1765, which equals 100%.
It was also back at the end of July last year that Cronin suggested that Town Council reassess the rate, possibly every six months. They decided to reassess it at the beginning of 2025.
So, here we are at the beginning of 2025. Cronin presented some stats on the EV chargers. “Once the EV chargers went live, we were pretty much out of the peak tourism season,” Cronin said.
He reported that since the end of July 2024, there were 55 individual users, and the average duration of charging was three hours and 50 minutes. The Town brought in $443 during this period of time from the EV chargers.
Since Town Council spoke about bringing in some maintenance cost for the EV chargers, Cronin presented how the Town could accrue a bit more of a profit without increasing the rate too much over the current 18 cents per kilowatt hour, which only covers the town’s electricity to run the EV chargers.
To accrue some of the cost for maintenance, Cronin said that Town staff suggests 25 cents per kilowatt hour, which covers the town’s cost for electricity, plus
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EV Rate Change (continued from page 1)
about $325 annually for equipment maintenance.
Cronin added, “This is the same rate as Kiawah Island. I am afraid if we go too high people will just charge their cars at Kiawah and skip us altogether.”
Cronin presented other suggestions for rates. At 34 cents per kilowatt hour, the Town’s electricity would be covered, plus an extra estimated $750 annually for equipment maintenance. This option is the AAA national average.
Lastly, option four would be 40 cents per kilowatt hour. That would cover the Town’s cost of electricity plus an estimated $1,000 extra annually for equipment maintenance.
It’s important to note that the four Level-2 Universal EV Chargers are warranted for maintenance with the company that installed them for the first two years. That means that during the first two years, any maintenance will be free for the Town.
Cronin announced that he and the Seabrook Island staff settled on option two and recommended that Town Council approve it.
“If significantly higher than 25 cents, people will go to Kiawah for EV charging,” Cronin said. “This way, we can put some money toward maintenance – the rest of the money for maintenance would have to come from the general fund.”
Town Council Member Dan Kortvelesy, the only member of Town Council with an electric vehicle, said that the going rate was about 40 cents per kilowatt hour. He said that cars that are not moved within five minutes of finishing the full charge are usually charged a dollar for a period of time.
Town Council Member Darryl May expressed concern for the fact that they wouldn’t really know how much maintenance would cost for the EV chargers until the two-year warranty was complete and some maintenance was needed. He added that the warranty covers the chargers themselves but not the electricity, should there be a problem
Grant Registration (continued from page 1)
the Internal Revenue Code;
2. Is established for any benevolent, social welfare, scientific, educational, environmental, philanthropic, humane, patriotic, public health, civic or other eleemosynary purpose, or for the benefit of law enforcement personnel, firefighters or other persons who protect the public safety; or
Bonn
3. Employs a charitable purpose or appeal as the basis of solicitation. Funds will be awarded in amounts ranging from $250 to $2,500. The total amount of grant funds available each calendar year will be determined by, and shall not exceed, the amount included for the Community Promotion Grant Program or the Environment and Wildlife Conservation Grant Program in the annual budget ordinance approved by Town Council. Not all appropriated funds need to be expended if qualifying applications are not received.
Organizations may apply for more than one grant, however, the total amount awarded to any organization shall not exceed $2,500 in any calendar year.
The Community Promotion Grant applications will be accepted starting on March 1, and the first review will take place on March 20. Subsequent meetings of the Community Promotions and Engagement Committee will take place at 1 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month unless otherwise advertised. Applications will be accepted until October 1, 2025, or upon the commitment of all available grant funds for 2025. A representative from the organization must attend the Community Promotions and Engagement Committee meeting, during which the organization’s request will be considered. Failure to attend could result in deferral or a recommendation for denial of the grant request.
For the Environment and Wildlife
with the line.
Mayor Bruce Kleinman suggested that Town Council accept Town Staff’s recommendation of 25 cents so that they can stay competitive with Kiawah Island’s EV chargers. May wanted one provision added to the EV charging amendment: Review the rates every January, if not sooner.
The rate of 25 cents was approved unanimously.
Seabrook’s EV chargers were mostly funded by a Berkeley Electric Cooperative grant for $25,000 in early 2024. The Town provided close to $10,000 to provide a fourth charging station.
Conservation Grant, applications will be accepted starting on March 1. The first review of the applications will take place on March 18. Subsequent meetings of the Environment and Wildlife Committee will take place at 10 a.m. on the second Thursday of each month unless otherwise advertised.
Applications for both grants will be accepted until October 1, 2025, or upon commitment of all available grant funds for 2025.
Upon reviewing each grant application, Seabrook Island’s Community Promotions and Engagement Committee shall make a recommendation to the Town Council as to whether the application should be approved or denied. Town Council shall have final authority in approving or denying grant applications. If chosen, all documentation must be submitted to the Town Clerk no later than December 15 of the grant year.
TOWN OF KIAWAH
Board of Zoning Appeals
Monday, February 24, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Arts & Cultural Event - Planning Session
Tuesday, February 25, 9 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Ways & Means Committee
Tuesday, March 4, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, March 4, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Environmental Committee
Wednesday, March 5, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
TOWN OF SEABROOK
Town Council
Tuesday, February 25, 2:30 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Board of Zoning Appeals
Wednesday, February 26, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, March 12, 1:30 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, March 18, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Utility Commission
Wednesday, March 19, 8:30 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Citizenserve will serve everyone on Seabrook with with speed and ease
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
There’s a new sheriff in town!
Well, not really, but there is a new system for licensing, permitting, code enforcement and short-term rental submissions for the Town of Seabrook Island. The software is called Citizenserve, and, along with being brand new, it will also operate completely online and serve as a hub for various town processes and management.
Seabrook Island’s License and Permit Official Nichole Nettles presented an update on the system at the January 28 Town Council meeting.
As the project lead for the development and implementation of Citizenserve, Nettles said that the “go live” date is the end of March for the business license applications, zoning permits and short-term rental applications. She added that the Town of Kiawah Island also uses Citizenserve, which means that the contractor they are working with is familiar with the area and similar processes.
All of the new short-term rental applications will be done on the Citizenserve. Nettles said that at first, they wanted everyone to transition over to the new system, but that they would allow for the paper process down the road.
“We know there will be a learning curve,” she said. “We know we have to give them grace with transitioning over.”
Citizenserve allows users to apply and pay online. Seabrook Island staff can then review everything online as well. Nettles noted that going online will eliminate duplicate entries and save staff time.
She also plans to hold several meetings with rental owners and property management companies to go
through Citizenserve and any changes in the ordinance and in permitting.
The business license year runs from May 1 through April 30. Renewal notices are mailed to existing businesses on an annual basis. Business licenses must be renewed by April 30 of each year. Business licenses are required for short-term rental permits. Short-term rental applications must be submitted with the business license application. Commercial vehicles are required to display a town business license decal at all times. More information on business licenses can be found at townofseabrookisland.org/businesslicenses.html.
And more information on business licenses through Citizenserve can be found at citizenserve.com/municipalsoftware-solutions/business-licensingsoftware.
Like the business license year, short-term rental permits also run from May 1 to April 30. Some changes to the short-term rental regulations were approved and will go into effect on May 1, 2025. The changes are reflected in the Zoning and Ordinance Amendments, which is Ordinance 2024-06; the Map Amendment for Short-Term Rental Overlay, which is Ordinance 2024-07; and Amendments to Business License Ordinance, which is Ordinance 202408.
More information on short-term rentals can be found here at townofseabrookisland. org/str.html, and more information on building permits can be found at townofseabrookisland.org/building-permits. html. To read about zoning permits, visit townofseabrookisland.org/zoning-permits. html. Lastly, for more general information on Citizenserve, visit citizenserve.com.
Kiawah Island Arts, etc announces the 2025 Art and house tour and auction
BY MARTHA ZINK For The Island Connection
The Kiawah Island Arts, etc. 2025 season is off and running. The volunteer organization’s mission is to connect communities by bringing visual, performance and literary arts education to the students of Johns and Wadmalaw Islands, and it has just announced details of its Program Partners for 2025.
Partners include ArtsNow Teacher Development at Angel Oak Elementary School. At the recent Arts, etc. member luncheon on February 5, the Angel Oak Principal Judith Condon thanked Arts, etc. for invaluable support for arts education in the schools. She then introduced ArtsNow education specialist Dr. Maribeth Yoder-White, who demonstrated one of the techniques she is teaching the elementary teachers. Clapping and knee slapping sets a rhythm for the children to follow along and aids in learning to read. The members at the luncheon learned that it’s also fun.
Other Program Partners funded by Arts, etc. include Pure Theatre, which is continuing its after school program at Haut Gap Middle School and St. Johns Island High School. It has proven so impactful that the CCSD is hiring a theater teacher for both schools. Chamber Music Charleston continues its residency program with Haut Gap string classes,
where students learn from and perform with professional musicians. Charleston Jazz Orchestra works with Haut Gap and St. Johns High band classes, introducing jazz fundamentals including
fashion design class in response to student interest. Yo Art will begin coding classes at Mt. Zion Elementary this month, and a filmmaking course is in the works at St. Johns High. Children’s Opera (College of Charleston) will be performing “Goldie B. Locks and the Three Singing Bears” at all three elementary schools this spring. Students from all the schools will take field trips to the Gaillard Center to see events such as Alvin Ailey Dance, Jazz Day and Vanishing Elephant.
Additional Program Partners providing exciting collaborative activities with the Sea Island youth are Charleston Stage, Engaging Creative Minds, Palmetto City Ballet, Gibbes Museum and Dance Moves.
improvisation. Yo Art! teaches coding classes at Haut Gap and has added a
To help fund Program Partners like ArtsNow and others listed above, Arts, etc. produces the Kiawah Art and House Tour, established in 2000. The 2025 tour will be on Friday, April 11 from 1 until 5 p.m. Tickets are available now at.kiawahartsetc. org. A concurrent Online Auction featuring artwork and other objects can be accessed on the same website from April 1-11. Artwork will be displayed from April 1-11, at the Freshfields branch of our Presenting Sponsor, First National Bank.
Tales and History of Johns Island
BY ANNIE SNELGROVE
The second evening event of 2025 by the Seabrook Island Natural History Group (SINHG), “Tales and History of Johns Island,” will be on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. This popular program features a presentation by historian, author and Johns Island native, Lee Glover, who will cover the varied history of Johns Island.
Glover and his family have a long history here in the Lowcountry, and members are very fortunate to be able to benefit from his wealth of experience. His love of farming and the natural environment here is an inspiration to all. Glover is the author of “Field Trip: My Years on a Johns Island Farm.”
SINHG evening programs at the Seabrook Island Lakehouse are offered free of charge to members, or a $5.00 charge for non-members. More information and the opportunity to preregister for this or any of the other monthly events can be found at sinhg.org/events-page. There will be a short period for socializing prior to the program, starting at about 6:30. The group looks forward to seeing everyone there. Lee Glover.
February 5 Arts, etc. luncheon.
Life’s Rich Tapestry
MARCH ARTIST OF THE MONTH BONNIE YOUNGINER
BY ROD MORRIS For The Island Connection
Bonnie Younginer is an artist working as a weaver, using needle and wet felted cloth as well as fiber collage.
After retiring from a 30-year career in interior design and owning Younginer Group Interior Design, she found weaving. She is self-taught in weaving and needle and wet felting. She strives
to interpret the beautiful natural habitat of Seabrook Island and render the scene in fiber, using the wet and needle felt process.
Younginer weaves interruptive tapestries on a large upright tapestry loom and also weaves on a Rigid Heddle loom, allowing the ability to use other weaving techniques not usually done on an upright loom. In a weaving, the weft is almost always a wool yarn while the warp is always done with cotton rug warp. This offers strength and durability to the weaving. At times, she adds embellishments to the work.
Younginer is originally from upstate South Carolina, moving to Columbia in 1975 to attend the University of South Carolina, where she earned her bachelor of interdisciplinary studies degree and added additional courses in studio art. She and her husband Michael moved permanently to Seabrook Island in July 2019. They have been married 40 years and have two grown sons and one granddaughter.
Younginer has pieces hanging elsewhere in the state: Hotel Trundle in Columbia and the Pink Lotus Yoga Center in Lexington. She was selected twice to show at an indie art show called Crafty Feast in the Midlands of South Carolina. She also has several custom pieces crafted for homes in Columbia.
The artist shows her work at South Carolina Artisans Center in Walterboro, which was designated by South Carolina legislature as the “Official Folk and Art Center,” with every artist selected through a two-stage jury process.
An Artist of Month reception will be held for Bonnie Younginer on Tuesday, March 4, 4:30-6 p.m. at the Seabrook Island Lake House. Please attend, meet her, and view her beautiful fiber art.
Bonnie Younginer.
The S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) conducted its annual Baltimore Oriole Winter Survey Feb. 14-17 in conjunction with the Great Backyard Bird Count. The state natural resources agency is interested in the status and distribution of these colorful songbirds that are wintering in the Palmetto State.
If you currently have Baltimore orioles coming to your feeders or have had them in the past years, SCDNR encourages your participation. Survey participants count and record the largest number of Baltimore orioles they can see at one time, on one, two, three or all four days of the survey period. Even if you cannot participate during the survey period, SCDNR would still like to record your oriole numbers seen during the winter months of December through February.
The survey form and materials are available through your web browser or through the Survey 123 app (free download through your device’s app store). The Survey123 form can be used to report oriole observations during the survey period (February 14-17) or outside of the survey period (December through February).
This year marks the 10th annual survey, and South Carolina continues
Calling All Birdwatchers GET YOUR ORIOLE COUNTS IN
BY SCDNR For The Island Connection
to report large numbers of wintering Baltimore Orioles. Historically, these birds have wintered in southern Florida, the Caribbean, Central and South America. However, during the last several decades, they have been wintering along the East Coast in greater abundance.
South Carolina had 30 counties reporting orioles last year, up from
THE ISLAND CONNECTION
25 counties in 2023. The majority of reported birds wintered along the coastal plain from Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head Island. Charleston County was the 2024 hotspot, with Beaufort, Dorchester, Horry and Florence Counties also leading the pack. Good numbers continued to extend inland, with the Upstate reporting Orioles as far west as Oconee County.
Though SCDNR is not sure why these birds have begun overwintering in large numbers in the state, they are responding well to the popularity of backyard bird feeding. Orioles are best attracted to feeders where the homeowner is already feeding birds in general. Orioles are attracted to the activity of other birds at feeders. If conditions are right for them, they are likely to frequent the feeders where they can find food, water, and shelter. They will eat a variety of foods and seeds, suet products, some seed mixes, nuts and fruit mixes, but their favorite food by far is grape jelly. Since these birds have become more common at the winter feeders, you can find an assortment of feeders that cater to them and their foods, especially at bird-feeding specialty stores.
The survey will enable scientists to learn the distribution and abundance of Baltimore orioles wintering in South Carolina. Information from the survey and the Great Backyard Bird Count can provide a “big picture” about what is happening to Baltimore oriole populations and other bird species. SCDNR appreciates the public’s support and efforts in helping collect the valuable information in this survey.
ONGOING
WHAT: BEEPLE
around the islands...
WHERE: Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St., Charleston WHEN: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Gibbes Museum will feature Beeple's latest kinetic sculptures. Beeple, a trailblazer in digital art, gained worldwide recognition. His work has been showcased in several prestigious museums.
WHAT: Charleston Wine + Food
WHERE: Various WHEN: March 5 - 9
MORE INFO: Charleston Wine + Food festival is back for 2025. Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate the best of Lowcountry cuisine with a lineup of events you won't want to miss. For more information, visit charlestonwineandfood.com.
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: The Sea Island Farmers Market is a year-round delight for locals and visitors alike. This market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods and handmade crafts. It's the perfect spot to start your weekend with a basket full of farmfresh goodies and unique finds.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
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.
WHAT: 7th Annual Rock the Block
WHERE: Home Team BBQ, 126 Williman St., Charleston WHEN: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Home Team BBQ will host the 7th annual Rock the Block, its flagship fundraiser and block party benefiting Hogs for the Cause and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Charleston. Attendees can expect a day of dancing, live music, food, beer, wine, cocktails, and more.
WHAT: 2025 Annual Oyster Roast WHERE: Dill Sanctuary, 1163 Riverland Dr., Charleston WHEN: 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Museum’s annual oyster roast includes an incredible view of the Stono River, live music from The Blue Plantation Band, oysters, barbecue, and sweet treats. Attendees are also invited to join Museum Curators for a guided tour of Battery Pringle. Please note that the Dill Sanctuary Oyster Roast is BYOB.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
WHAT: 2025 Founder’s Day Annual Oyster Roast WHERE: McLeod Plantation Historic Site, 325 Country Club Dr., Charleston WHEN: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: This family friendly event will include fresh oysters, a full barbeque dinner, and desserts. The cost of an adult ticket also includes beer and wine.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25
WHAT: Learning to Love What Makes You Thrive WHERE: Sandcastle Kiawah Island
WHEN: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Kiawah Heart presents Learning to Love What Makes You Thrive, A transformative workshop with Hillary Fox Board Certified Functional Medicine and Wellness Coach. Purchase tickets in advance $45 at kiawah-heart.org.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26
WHAT: Piano Bar with The Joy Project
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, FEBRUARY 27
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.
WHAT: Lip Sync for Lungs: Rhinestones + Rockstars
WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston
WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Saddle up for a wild ride because the American Lung Association in South Carolina’s one-of-a-kind fundraiser is returning to Charleston Music Hall. Information and tickets for Lip Sync For Lungs Live Battle IX: Rhinestones & Rockstars is available at LipSyncForLungs.org.
WHAT: Pat Conroy: An Introduction to a Lowcountry Legend
WHERE: Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St., Charleston
WHEN: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join the Conroy Centers’ executive director, Jonathan Haupt, for a free literary program. An engaging hour of stories, photos, and videos introducing Conroy’s writing and teaching life and exploring some of the major themes of his work, as well as how the nonprofit literary center established in his memory now continues his legacy.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
WHAT: Sinatra: The Man and His Music by Moranz Entertainment
WHERE: West Beach Conference Center
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Brad and Jennifer Moranz present “Sinatra-the Man and his Music,” a musical tribute to the legendary Frank Sinatra. Multiple incredible singers will perform various of his timeless hits.
SATURDAY, MARCH 2
WHAT: Sutton Foster with musical director Michael Rafter WHERE: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston
WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Foster is one of her generation’s most celebrated Broadway actresses, having won two Tony Awards for her performances in “Anything Goes” and “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” She has starred in numerous other Broadway productions, including “Violet,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Shrek the Musical,” and most recently concluded a lauded run in “The Music Man.”
TUESDAY, MARCH 4
WHAT: Fat Tuesday Crawfish Boil & Mardi Gras Party
WHERE: Coast Bar & Grill. 39D John St., Charleston
WHEN: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Experience the vibrant energy of New Orleans to Hutson Alley in downtown Charleston with a Big Fat Tuesday Crawfish Boil & Mardi Gras Party. Tickets include the all-you-can-eat crawfish boil and three drink tickets. Open for additional food and beverage purchases.
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
WHAT: Toast Under the Oaks
WHERE: Johns Island County Park, 2662 Mullet Hall Rd., Johns Island
WHEN: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Beverages, live music and beautiful scenery. This popular happy hour event is held beneath the sweeping live oak trees at this scenic park on Johns Island. Beer and wine are included with admission. Each event will also feature two food trucks selling fare on site. To purchase tickets, or more information visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.
Sea Islands HUNGER AWARENESS FOUNDATION
2024 Hunger Awareness Challenge To Mary Hill
$330,000!!!
The Sea Islands Hunger Awareness Foundation (SIHAF) is delighted to announce that YOU, our generous donors, have met our $200,000 Matching Challenge, and YOU have once again SURPASSED the Challenge with a Grand Total of $330,000.00!!! This includes all contributions, October 1st through December 31st, 2024, to the Foundation, in support of its fourteen (14) programs and partners. YOU, friends, neighbors, families, honorees, and dear ones in memoriam, continue to accept the challenge and help change the lives of your sea island neighbors. We appreciate all who gave with your heart and contributed in any way to help meet and surpass the 2024-25 SIHAF Hunger Awareness Challenge, making it possible for us to provide healthy food and clean water one meal at a time.
The SIHAF Board is proud to dedicate this highly successful 2024 Hunger Awareness Challenge to our Board Chairperson, Mary Hill, whose passion it is to feed the hungry, and to honor her service and perseverance in recovering from a stroke, suffered last summer. We know you all share in our prayers for her full recovery.
This year’s record total means so much to so many!
It means that we can grant more funds that our fourteen (14) local programs and partner organizations NEED to serve our more than 2500 neighbors who deal with hunger every day, via meals, groceries, and special programs, and provide thousands of pounds of produce to our Johns and Wadmalaw Islands families in need.
It means that we can provide more Microwave Ovens, Stoves, and Refrigerators to those who have NONE.
It means SIHAF’s ALL-Volunteer Team can continue to serve our neighbors, efficiently and effectively, as recently deemed by the Secretary of State that 98.8% of all donations go directly to our mission of feeding the hungry and providing clean water to those in need.
It means that SIHAF’s Water Wellness Mission has conquered its list of those in need of clean water in their homes, many for the first time, and assures that those wells and filtration systems can be maintained, and future requests for wells, granted.
It means that with multiplying food costs and new applicants we need and welcome your CONTINUED support. Please help us reach our new neighbors and businesses to make them AWARE of our community’s responsibilities…all year long!
Thank You to our local publications for helping to make our community AWARE of our Challenge, and the needs of our community.
Our sincere thanks to our loyal donors who continue their generous support of the foundation, its programs, and partners, throughout the year, through planned or annual giving, grants, and other gifts. Thank you again, to ALL who have met the challenge and their neighborly responsibility to help us continue to Provide Our Programs, Support Our Partners, and Provide Nutritious Food and Clean Water to our Sea Island Neighbors in Need in 2025.
We appreciate your continued giving and your sharing this with friends, neighbors, and local businesses:
Donate by Check Mailed to: Sea Islands Hunger Awareness Foundation (SIHAF) PO Box 268, Johns Island, SC 29457-0268 Via Credit or Debit Card at: fightislandhunger.org
SIHAF is a 501c3 non-profit organization - All donations are tax-deductible
1. Bonnie and Jerry Kelly
2. Bob and Sherrie Mason
3. Peter and Adeline Ruffin
4. Eric and Chris Strobel
5. Beyond Our Gates
6. Bill and Pat Greubel
7. John and Sue Carpenter
8. Kevin and Nancy Swan
9. Joe and Pat Marion
10. Dean and Sherri Goodwin
11. Barbara Andrews
12. Buchanan Family
13. Tom and Cheryl Boswell
14. Brian and Arlene Amery (In Memory of Jane Kelly)
15. Steve and Connie Andersen
16. Jim and Marlisa Bannister
17. David and Kathleen Bauhs
18. Barbara Johnson
19. Paul’s Family Foundation
20. Stono Oaks
21. Anonymous
22. Paul and Jacquie DePalma
23. The Bennett Family
24. Peter and Mary Conway
25. Tara Foundation
26. Fred and Mary Armburst
27. Meg and Frank Carter
28. Steven and Denise Donohoe
29. Jim Dryer
30. Laurel and Hank Greer
31. SIHAF Board Members (In Honor of Our Dear Friend Mary Hill, Stellar Volunteer and SIHAF Board Chairperson)
32. Joseph Liro and Joanne Hill
33. Church of Our Saviour
34. Phyllis Barber
35. Susan Buff
36. Charleston Best Services
37. Cynthia Davis
38. Stanley Dyl
39. Ralph and Nancy Edwards
40. Foundation for Carolinas
41. Philip Gillespie
42. Rajan and Suman Govondan
43. Maggie and Wayne Grzecki
44. Charles and Deborah Harris
45. Shauna Holiman
46. Law Offices of Donald Howe
47. Dorothy Ingram
48. Linda Ketner
49. Katherine Kotz
50. Bob and Susan Leggett
51. Patricia Linton
52. Robert and Jane Martin
53. Daryl May
54. Tina Mayland
55. Robert and Jane Martin
56. Donna Muscari
57. The Muscari Family
58. Brian and Laurie Nejmeh
59. Peter Rupert
60. Charlie and Rose Septer
61. Regina Sommer
62. Robert and Suzanne Stebbins
63. Jeff Ward
64. Joe and Becky Wilson
65. Geoffrey and Sue Woglam
66. Mellinda and George Yocum
67. Eventbrite
68. Kevin Boyle
69. James Brown and Penny Lee
70. Mr. and Thomas Cooper
71. Robert Davis
72. Mary and James Hill
73. Sue and Quentin Jackson
74. Mary Jo Manning
75. Robert and Linda Matthews
76. Rockville Presbyterian Church
77. Rick and Debbie Ross
78. Shirley Salvo
79. John Snead
80. Robert and Susan Speziale
81. Carol Younker (In Honor of Barbara Griffin and Mike Vinson)
82. In Honor of Claudia Serwart(Anonymous, Linda Dove, Mary Beth Chadwell, John and Anne Madden, Gig and Dave Wasz)
83. In Honor of Mary and James Hill – (Lucy and Ray Hoover, Pamela and Michael Madaio, Morris, Melissa Whitmore, Margaret Wildermann)
84. Gig and Bill Mislowsky
85. Leslie and Steve Haines
86. Karen and Leonard Madoff
87. Sue Myrick
88. Lee and Lori Newsom
89. Lindy Small and Stephen Shapiro
90. Bruce Van Voorhes
91. Anonymous
92. Joseph and Ronell Berttucci
93. Derek and Inger Fyfe
94. Kiawah Ladies Nine Holers
95. Paula and Bob Adamson
96. Mary Ann Ashton
97. Debbie Banecker
98. Marvin and Char Kelly
99. Cheryl and David Morley
100. Kathleen and Sean O’Brien
101. Rebecca Parsons
102. Lois Rinehimer
103. Susie and Andy Rush
104. James Salvo(In Honor of Shirley Salvo)
105. Calista Woodbridge
106. Nancy Appel
107. Ann and Michael Matthews
108. Jay and Nancy Miller
109. Madeline and Chuck Nesmith(In Memory of Our Loving Parents)
110. First Capital Bank
111. Raymone and Stephanie Hamilton
112. Carol and Stan Ulner
113. Sandy Lang
114. Vicki Boardman
115. Rosemarie Booze
116. Jill and Bill Boissonnault
117. William Breunsach
118. Lois and John Bush
119. Jackie and Glenn Cocchiola
120. Patrick and Lora Connelly
121. Gerrianne Delaney
122. Karen England
123. Linda and William Hart
124. Carol and Rick Heilman
125. Jane Hirsch
126. Gary and Kathy Kunkleman
127. Ed and Lori Leary
128. Kathy May
129. Dale McClary
130. Shep McKinley
131. Carol Medendorp
132. Tom and Deb Merriam
133. Thomas Ranese
134. Charles and Lisa Snowden
135. Michael Green
136. Michele Neelakantappa
137. Sally and Doug Boudinot
138. Joy Harrity
139. Bernie Kennedy
140. Ben Lever
141. William Thomas
142. Alan and Peggy Todd
143. Linda Williams
144. Mary Woodbridge (In Honor of Calista Woodbridge)
145. Bill and Pat Huff
146. Wendy Holschuh
BY JACK WILSON
jwilson@dunesproperties.com
Love Your Neighbor OUR LADY OF MERCY COMMUNITY OUTREACH HOSTS ANNUAL CELEBRATION
BY MARNIE BONN For The Island Connection
Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach announced its annual Love Your Neighbor Celebration, a premier fundraising event set to take place on Saturday, March 22 at the newly opened Dunlin Resort in The Shippon and Limehouse event spaces.
This elegant evening will bring together supporters, philanthropists, and community members to raise crucial funds for programs that provide education, healthcare and essential resources to neighbors in need.
The Love Your Neighbor Celebration will feature an exciting silent auction, a live auction wine pull, live music and a gourmet seated dinner, all set against the backdrop of the Dunlin Resort. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable evening while making a tangible impact on the lives of families in the Charleston area.
“This event is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together for a shared purpose,” said Jermaine Husser, Executive Director of Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach. “We are honored to host this year’s celebration at the stunning Dunlin Resort, where
we can continue to raise awareness and critical funds to support those in need.”
Ways to Get Involved:
• Attend the Event: Guests will experience an extraordinary evening filled with live entertainment, fine dining, and exciting fundraising opportunities, all benefiting vital programs in our community.
• Donate to the Silent Auction: Businesses and individuals can contribute unique items, luxury experiences or gift packages to be featured in the silent auction, gaining exposure to an exclusive audience of Charleston’s top donors and community leaders.
Tickets and sponsorships are available now. To purchase tickets, make a donation, or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit givebutter.com/c/ loveyourneighbor25 or contact Marnie Bonn at marnie.bonn@olmoutreach.
org. Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach provides dental and pre-natal care, emergency food, clothing and financial assistance, lunch five days a week at Neighborhood House, and diverse educational and capacity-building opportunities. To learn more about the organization, go to olmoutreach.org.
Jam on Johns
OVERNIGHT CAMPOUT PROMISES FUN FOR FAMILIES
Families are invited to bring their tents to Johns Island County Park for the second Family Camp Jam. This good old-fashioned campout will take place on March 15-16. The starry skies of scenic Johns Island County Park will be the setting for an evening of unforgettable memories. Participants must provide their own tent camping equipment. Registration is open now and may sell out in advance, so interested campers are encouraged to sign up online as soon as possible.
The campout will feature food, live music, stargazing and marshmallow roasting. After checking in on March 15, participants can explore the park until sunset. Take on the climbing wall, watch a remote-controlled airplane demo from the Lowcountry RC Flyers, enjoy disc golf, and sling arrows on the archery range (archery equipment will not be provided).
When the sun goes down, the fun will continue. Dinner from Grill Kings will be offered from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and is included in the ticket price. A marshmallow roasting pit will be open from 7 – 9 p.m. Guests will enjoy live music from Carley Kelban from 6 – 8:30 p.m., and the Lowcountry Stargazers will host an enchanting stargazing experience at 8 p.m.
Registration for the campout is $25 per person and is available online at the county parks site. Kids ages 3 and under
are free. Check-in is from 1 – 5 p.m. on March 15 and check-out is 10 a.m. on March 16. Campers may still enjoy the park after checkout, but must be packed up by 10 a.m. The park’s grounds and amenities will be off limits from sunset to sunrise.
Adults must accompany campers under the age of 18 at all times. Alcoholic beverages, open fires and pets are not permitted at the campout. For additional camping rules and information, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Johns Island County Park is owned and operated by the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) and is located at 2662 Mullet Hall Road, Johns Island, SC 29455. The park system offers a wide variety of recreational services – festivals, camps, classes, programs, and more. For more information on CCPRC, call 843-7954386, or visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Tide Chart
3:01am/3:08pm 4:05am/4:10pm 5:04am/5:09pm 5:58am/6:03pm 6:46am/6:53pm 7:33am/7:41pm 8:17am/8:29pm 9:02am/9:17pm 9:47am/10:06pm 10:35am/10:58pm 11:26am/11:54pm 12:23pm 12:55am/1:26pm 2:03am/2:35pm 9:20am/9:10pm 10:20am/10:14pm 11:15am/11:14pm 12:04pm 12:08am/12:51pm 1:00am/1:36pm 1:50am/2:20pm 2:40am/3:04pm 3:31am/3:49pm 4:23am/4:36pm 5:18am/5:27pm 6:17am/6:22pm 7:21am/7:24pm 8:28am/8:32pm
Source:
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLESTON COUNTY PARKS.
