IKiawah Conversations addresses community concerns for the environment
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
n response to the Kiawah Island Community’s continued desire to remain informed about the surrounding area’s fragile, unique and diverse environment and wildlife, the town of Kiawah Island created a new initiative, Kiawah Conversations, to address concerns and inform the public about ongoing efforts.
The first educational program was held at Town Hall on January 29 at 3 p.m. Dr. Brian Shamblin from the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at the University of Georgia spoke at this inaugural event. The topic, entitled “Kiawah’s Loggerhead Turtles: Genetic Tagging of Ancient Mariners,” focused on important sea turtle research along the East Coast. The local Turtle Patrol and their powerful contributions were also highlighted.
Kiawah Island Town Council Member Madeleine Kaye spoke about the new initiative at the first Town Council meeting of the year on January 6. As the Environmental Committee Chair, Kaye said the program will welcome the Sea Island public to learn more about the area’s regional environmental concerns and will “focus exclusively on issues
of resiliency, sustainability, wildlife and the environment,” she said.
Kaye took the time to answer questions about Kiawah Conversations with The Island Connection
How did the idea for Kiawah Conversations come about?
The Town of Kiawah Island has a long and unwavering commitment to preserving and protecting our unique landscape and wildlife. The community has demonstrated a strong desire to be informed and involved in local and regional efforts to address a wide variety of environmental issues and initiatives. We are responding to that desire with the creation of Kiawah Conversations.
Why do you think this program is important?
Because it’s one way to educate the community on issues, including the impact of increased storm severity, rising sea levels, storm water management, the fragility of our marsh and threats to our wildlife. Further, we recognize that Kiawah does not exist in a bubble. Our environmental and sustainability issues are shared by our friends on Seabrook and Johns Island, who are invited to Kiawah Conversations. If we share our analyses, research and project updates, we enhance our chance of successful outcomes.
I see that the first Kiawah Conversations will be about loggerhead sea turtles and feature Dr. Brian Shamblin. Can you give me an idea of some of the topics for future meetings?
In the near term, our schedule includes programs on dolphin strand feeding, alligator research, recycling, beach health, composting and native plants.
Will they be monthly around the end of the month? Where will they take place?
We anticipate sponsoring one or two programs each month, but timing will depend upon speaker availability. Most of the lectures will be held at Kiawah’s Town Hall on Betsy Kerrison Parkway, but others will be field trips to the beach, the marsh or rain gardens, for example. A field trip to the county’s recycling center is planned for March.
How do you go about finding the speakers?
We tap our committee members, who have a wide circle of contacts on and off the island. The committee includes community members who are also members of our Turtle Patrol, Shorebird Stewards and some in naturalist groups. We get input from Kiawah’s Community Association, the Kiawah Conservancy and the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. I hope to identify a member from Seabrook. Finally, Kiawah has first-class staff with extensive networks in other Southeastern coastal communities, as well as staff with expertise in sustainability and wildlife research on animals as diverse as bobcats, alligators, rodents, reptiles and shorebirds.
How can residents get involved?
By attending our presentations, coming along on our field trips, sharing topic suggestions with the committee, providing feedback on how we’re doing and spreading the word to their friends and neighbors.
What are you hoping for in regards to the future of Kiawah Conversations?
Kiawah’s Town Council knows how fortunate we are to have the resources, the staff and the community support to identify and enact aggressive sustainability initiatives. We just passed a comprehensive plan with resiliency as a core element, recognizing the need to adapt and thrive in shifting environmental conditions and stresses. We are working to cement Kiawah’s place as a leader in ecotourism. I’m hoping that Kiawah Conversations will enhance those processes.
Kiawah Conversations is free to the public, although registration for the programs is required. Check the Kiawah Island Town website for upcoming programs at kiawahisland.gov.
All photos courtesy of Town of Kiawah Island.
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Seabrook could see fewer dollars from FEMA in 2026
BY THERESA STRATFORD | For The Island Connection
Seabrook Island Town Council Member Dan Kortvelesy gave his update as chair of the public safety committee on December 16, but not without an alarming update.
As word has spread nationwide on the funding cuts for FEMA, it appears that this setback has now hit close to home on Seabrook Island.
Kortvelesy said, “It has been brought to our attention that FEMA has retreated from fully funding various parts of the disaster recovery mode, and they are passing that down to the states and local levels.”
He added that the public safety committee recommends examining the funding shortfalls when the new disaster awareness plan is created in 2026. “We want to make sure we are not caught in a position where we think money is coming in and it isn’t,” he said.
to find their own ways to manage and finance disasters, including adjusting their budgets, establishing state-level disaster funds and seeking private funding or local partnerships.
Seabrook Island sets aside a certain amount of money for disaster recovery, but in the past, FEMA had reimbursed the town for the expenses incurred.
As of April 2025, the current administration issued both an executive order directing state and local preparedness and an internal memorandum mandating short-term changes to FEMA’s Public Assistance thresholds and hazard-mitigation programs, which became effective June 1, the start of hurricane season.
Just like Kortvelesy warned Seabrook Island Town Council, other state and local emergency managers are sounding the alarm, warning that these changes could leave communities less prepared and slow down recovery efforts, potentially putting lives at risk. Many states are now having
Town of Kiawah Island
Environmental Committee
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Infrastructure and Public Works Committee
Thursday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Resiliency Committee
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Board of Zoning Appeals
Monday, Feb. 23, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Ways and Means Committee
Tuesday, March 3, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Governor- or legislature-led systems are no longer theoretical – they may become necessary. States will need to audit current disaster funds, reserves and authority gaps; identify eligible revenue streams and define triggers for use; draft legislative provisions to operationalize and streamline funding; and integrate financial resilience tools into emergency plans. Swift disaster response requires legal clarity and appropriate authority. States will need to consider statutes that trigger fund release upon declaration with no special session needed; permit advance contracting and procurement exceptions; enable mid-year fund reallocations by executive action and insulate local governments from post-disaster fiscal shortfalls.
There were fewer disaster recovery funds released in 2025, but many of the requests that did come in were denied. Some states and local governments have sought legal action against the changes.
For more information on the changes, visit fema.gov.
Town of Seabrook Island
Planning Commission
Wednesday, Feb. 11, 1:30 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Environment & Wildlife Committee
Thursday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Discretionary Grants Committee
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2:30 p.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 lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
JohnS iSland c ouncil
Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, S.C. 29455 Chairman Chris Cannon: 843-343-5113
charle STon c oun T y c ouncil 4045 Bridge View Drive N. Charleston, S.C. 29405 843-958-4700
ciT y of charle STon 75 Calhoun St. Charleston, S.C. 29401 843-724-3745
Community urged to submit comments to County in support of Seabrook Island Road Project
BY THERESA STRATFORD | For The Island Connection
Seabrook Island Road accommodates approximately 7,700 vehicle trips per day, according to the South Carolina Department of Transportation. The road directly serves 2,100 full-time residents, 2,600 dwelling units and supports more than 2,400 businesses. Not to mention, the road also provides access to the thousands of guests and tourists who visit the island every year.
These statistics prove the importance of the road, especially since it is also the only thoroughfare in and out of Seabrook. On December 10, the Town of Seabrook Island was approached by Charleston County and asked to provide a list of the Town’s transportation priorities for possible inclusion in the Transportation Sales Tax referendum that is currently under review by the county for 2026.
The obvious choice by the town was to request assistance with the Seabrook Island Road Improvement Project, which has been identified by the Town Council as a high priority item in the years 2019, 2022, 2024 and 2025.
Flooding has been a perpetual problem with the road. In December of 2023, personnel from the St. Johns Fire District were called to rescue occupants from multiple flooded vehicles on Seabrook Island Road. At that time, the roadway was rendered impassable until the floodwaters receded.
The project would raise low-lying portions of the roadway to an elevation of approximately 6.75 feet, beginning at the intersection of the Betsey Kerrison Parkway and Village Green Lane and extending approximately 5,150 linear feet southwest to Landfall Way. The improvements would also include the installation of roadside drainage swales and related infrastructure to reduce flooding and ponding upon travel lanes and within the road right-of-way.
In 2024, the town had the project assessed. The estimated cost at that time was $3.36 million, but Town Administrator Joe Cronin said he expects the cost would be higher now.
(Continued on page 10)
Seabrook Island Road as seen in front of the town hall. Photo by Theresa Stratford.
Backpack Buddies asks for your support
BY MAUREEN GIBSON For The Island Connection
The Kiawah Women’s Foundation’s annual Backpack Buddies Challenge is starting and will continue through March 1. The Kiawah Women’s Foundation (KWF) reaches out to the Kiawah Island community for financial support just once a year and we hope we can count on your help.
KWF has served local children and their families in the Lowcountry since 2013, supporting Angel Oak Elementary Primary School, Johns Island Elementary School and Haut Gap Middle School on Johns Island; Frierson Elementary School on Wadmalaw; and Minnie Hughes Elementary School on Yonges Island. We recently expanded our mission to include a Food Pantry at St. Johns High School and also added Baptist Hill Middle and High Schools on Yonges Island. With 94% of the pupils on Yonges Island designated as living in poverty, our services are a welcome new resource for this underserved Lowcountry community.
Children from families with incomes below the poverty level receive weekday breakfasts and lunches from our partner schools. Our flagship Backpack Buddies program extends that support when the school day ends. Each week during the school year, KWF volunteers pack and deliver 305 bags. We have expanded the bags to contain 16 shelf-stable food items that children can prepare for themselves, whether after school or over the weekend. Feedback about the Backpack Buddies program from parents, school staff, and students has been positive in all regards, and this community has come to rely on our support. Summer 2025 was the first year we extended our outreach to year-round distribution of Backpack Buddies bags, to an overwhelmingly positive response.
To fund these projects, KWF is supported by the generosity of the Kiawah community.Through the Backpack Buddies Challenge, KWF hopes to raise $75,000 in February to fund our operations. Overall inflation and skyrocketing food costs are some of the many strains for the struggling families we serve. Sponsoring a child for the school year costs approximately $300. Please consider donating; any amount helps support our programs.
Donations can be made on the website at kiawahwomensfoundation.org or by check payable to Kiawah Women’s Foundation, 130 Gardeners Circle, Mailbox 1, Johns Island, South Carolina, 29455. All donations are tax deductible.
The TAG is back, and gently used treasures are
BY KATIE JONJEVIC | For The Island Connection
If your garage has been whispering, “Please clean me,” or that lamp on the side table has been quietly begging for a second act, good news: THE TAG is back, and the community-wide treasure hunt begins with you.
Hosted by the Conservancy of the Sea Islands (formerly Kiawah Conservancy), this beloved event turns gently used goods into meaningful support for conservation right here on the Sea Islands. THE TAG depends on community generosity, and Donation Drop-Off Days are the first chapter in this annual favorite.
Through February 27, neighbors are invited to swing by Kiawah Island Town Hall (4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway) to donate items that deserve a fresh start. Think of it as spring cleaning with a purpose—and maybe a little bragging rights.
Your extra art, lamps, rugs, furniture, kitchenware and cookware, outdoor and sports gear, beach and camping gear, accessories and much more can become someone else’s great find—and help protect the places we all love.
and similar items—but most gently-used household and recreational treasures are fair game.
A few things should sit this one out though—clothing and shoes, books, baby gear, electronics, holiday décor, large appliances, bedding
Donation days and times vary, so a quick look online will point you to the right window to drop things off. Learn everything you need to know about THE TAG on the Conservancy of the Sea Islands website conservancyoftheseaislands.org.
Once the donation is done, the real fun begins. Save the date for THE TAG sale day, February 28, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Kiawah Island Town Hall! That’s when all those donated treasures reappear as bargains worth bragging about. Plus, the Coastal Cowgirl food truck will be on-site with coffee and baked treats to keep the fun going all day long.
Every purchase tells a bigger story. All proceeds benefit the mission of the Conservancy of the Sea Islands—preserving and protecting the places you love for future generations. It’s sustainability, community spirit and great shopping all rolled into one lively day.
So clear a shelf, clean out a closet, and join your neighbors in making THE TAG another headline-worthy success. This is one story the whole community helps write—and it just keeps getting better.
Bishop Gadsden
Seafields by Bishop Gadsden
Phone photos welcome
Seabrook Island Photography welcomes Rad Drew
BY ROD MORRIS For
The Island Connection
Many people assume that Seabrook Photography Club members are all very serious, technical, photography nerds with large expensive cameras. Yes, we have a couple of those, but many of our members rely heavily and some even exclusively on cell phone photography to create their images. For that reason, we are increasingly offering programs focused on cell phone photography.
Rad Drew is a teacher, photographer, speaker and photo tour leader who creates with iPhone, mirrorless and infrared cameras. He is especially recognized for (Continued on page 11)
Photos Courtesy of Rad Drew.
Photographer Rad Drew.
AROUND THE ISLANDS
ONGOING
WHAT: Fleece+ Friday
WHERE: Beachwalker Center
WHEN: Every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon.
MORE INFO: Join the Kiawah Cares Made with Love program to create handmade crafts for children, seniors, Veterans, teachers, new moms and neighbors in need. All skill levels are welcome to make no-sew fleece blankets, craft greeting cards, sew fabric totes, knit/crochet scarves and more.
WHAT: Spirit Tasting
WHERE: Kiawah Spirits, 615 Freshfields Dr.
WHEN: Every Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Stop by Kiawah Spirits for tastings of select spirits. Guests must be 21 years old to participate. While supplies last.
WHAT: Sea Island Farmers Market
WHERE: 2024 Academy Rd., Johns Island
WHEN: Every Saturday from 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 farm-fresh goodies and unique finds.
WHAT: Weekend Wine-Down
WHERE: Deep Water Vineyard, 6775 Bears Bluff Rd., Wadmalaw Island
WHEN: Every Saturday from 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: Southern Sips
WHERE: Dunlin Resort, 1030 Sound Drive, Johns Island
WHEN: Every Tuesday and Friday from 3:30 p.m.4:30 pm
MORE INFO: Step into the world of mixology with this Southern Sips Class, where you’ll master the art
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.
of crafting two unique cocktails using ingredients sourced directly from the resort’s farm.
WHAT: Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) WHERE: Downtown Charleston WHEN: Feb. 13–15
MORE INFO: The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit celebrating wildlife and the outdoors through art, live entertainment and special events, will host its 44th annual showcase. A cornerstone of Charleston’s cultural calendar, SEWE draws visitors from across the country for immersive experiences that include acclaimed wildlife art, live animal demonstrations, outdoor programming, artisan exhibitors and more. General admission passes, special event tickets and limited VIP packages are available at SEWE.com.
SATURDAY, FEB. 7
WHAT: Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
WHERE: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, 1242 Belk Dr., #101, Mount Pleasant WHEN: 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: You’ll want to set your alarm because Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams will host their annual Ice Cream for Breakfast Day starting at 9 a.m. You find more details at jenis.com/icfb.
WHAT: Pup Bowl IX
WHERE: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, 1218 Belk Dr., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: Noon - 3 p.m.
MORE INFO: Mount Pleasant Towne Centre is once again teaming up with the Charleston Animal Society to kick off THE big game weekend with the cutest football game of the year. Pup Bowl IX returns Saturday, Feb. 7 at The Oaks, located
across from Barnes & Noble. Guests can cheer on adoptable puppies while enjoying live music, browsing local vendors and taking part in handson activities for children. Tickets for the familyfriendly event are $10 in advance and $15 on the day of the event, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Charleston Animal Society. Tickets are available online.
WHAT: Espresso Martini Festival
WHERE: The Rickhouse, 1734 Signal Point Rd., James Island WHEN: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Guests can sample espresso martinis crafted by leading Charleston bars and bartenders, enjoy live music, and browse a curated local vendor market.
SUNDAY, FEB. 8
WHAT: Second Sunday on King WHERE: King Street, Charleston WHEN: Noon. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: King Street will be shut down to through traffic from Queen to Calhoun, roughly half a mile. Strolling guests can enjoy music, shopping, dining, and more.
WHAT: Quentin E. Baxter Presents The Angelique Francis Band WHERE: Turtle Point Golf Course, 1 Turtle Point Ln., Kiawah Island WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Grammy Award-winning musician/producer and world-renowned drummer Quentin E. Baxter presents a two-concert series on Kiawah Island. Each 75-minute concert is $30 for general admission and starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at kiawahisland.gov/ events.
TUESDAY, FEB. 10
WHAT: Career Fair
WHERE: Mingo Point, 876 Kiawah Island Pkwy., Johns Island WHEN: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Kiawah Island Golf Resort will host a series of on-site career fairs at Mingo Point, located.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 11
WHAT: Art Film: Series in the Theatre: Pavarotti WHERE: Seafields, Kiawah Island WHEN: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Kiawah Arts Council is excited to announce a partnership with Seafields to host our Art Film Series at their new, exceptional facility on Kiawah Island. These events will continue to be open to the public; however, due to limited capacity and parking, RSVPs will be required.
AROUND THE ISLANDS
THURSDAY, FEB. 12
WHAT: Dracula in the Lowcountry with Dacre Stoker
WHERE: Jewish Studies Center - College of Charleston, 96 Wentworth St., Charleston WHEN: 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. (slow play) and 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. (all levels)
MORE INFO: Charleston FRIENDS of the Library will host an evening with author and literary historian Dacre Stoker, the great-grandnephew of Bram Stoker, for a special program exploring literary history, family legacy and the enduring influence of libraries.
FRIDAY, FEB. 13
WHAT: Jennifer Vido Book Signing
WHERE: Indigo Books, 472 Freshfields Dr., Johns Island WHEN: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Lowcountry romance author Jennifer Vido will be doing a book signing to launch her latest novel, Simplicity by the Sea. For more information visit jennifervido.com.
WHAT: South Carolina Ballet: A Midsummer Night’s Dream WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: South Carolina Ballet is bringing the whimsy and magic of Shakespeare’s greatest romantic comedy to the stage. In A Midsummer Night’s Dream, four lovers and a troupe of amateur actors are caught in a quarrel between Oberon and Titania, King and Queen of the forest, thereby turning their world upside
down with hilarious consequences. William Starrett creates a performance offering a blend of comedy, classical dance, and modern-day storytelling – all in one spellbinding event perfect for the entire family.
SATURDAY, FEB. 14
WHAT: The Notebook Themed Valentine’s Day WHERE: Legami, 492 King St., Charleston WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Legami, the contemporary Italian restaurant on King Street, is hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner inspired by the film The Notebook. One of the movie’s most iconic scenes — in which Allie and Noah lie in the street — was filmed at the corner where the restaurant is located. The restaurant will offer a four-course dinner priced at $135, with each course named after memorable lines from the film.
SUNDAY, FEB. 15
WHAT: Young Artist Series featuring the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra at Church of Our Saviour
WHERE: Church of Our Saviour, 4416 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy., Johns Island WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Young Artists Series features emerging artists in the area. CSYO is a full symphonic experience comprised of highly skilled middle and high school musicians led by Ryo Hasegawa.
TUESDAY, MARCH 3
WHAT: Andy & Friends II - Chamber Trio
Gated Poolside Living
Nestled in the desirable gated community of Waterloo Estates, this spacious 5-bedroom home offers privacy, flexibility, and
at its best. Enjoy your own saltwater pool, with the backyard backing to mature trees for a peaceful, private setting.
WHERE: Seabrook Island Club, 3772 Seabrook Island Rd., Seabrook Island WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join celebrated pianist Andy Armstrong for his new chamber series: ANDY & FRIENDS. Not only does Andy bring some of his internationally acclaimed musician friends together, but you’ll likely feel like one of Andy’s friends by the end of each performance!
SUNDAY, MARCH 8
WHAT: Quentin E. Baxter Presents… WHERE: Turtle Point Golf Course, 1 Turtle Point Ln., Kiawah Island
WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Grammy Award-winning musician/ producer and world-renowned drummer Quentin E. Baxter presents a two-concert series on Kiawah Island. Each 75-minute concert is $30 for general admission and starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at kiawahisland.gov/events.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11
WHAT: Art Film: Series in the Theatre: Gigi WHERE: Seafields, Kiawah Island
WHEN: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Kiawah Arts Council is excited to announce a partnership with Seafields to host our Art Film Series at their new, exceptional facility on Kiawah Island. These events will continue to be open to the public; however, due to limited capacity and parking, RSVPs will be required.
UNDERCONTRACT
Island Road
Continued from page 3
During the town’s January 12 Special Called Meeting, the mayor and Town Council, including the two newest members, considered a resolution requesting the inclusion of Seabrook Island Road’s improvements in the county’s Transportation Sales Tax Referendum.
“This really covers the inequity that underlies the fact that the town of Seabrook Island has not been shared with at all in the transportation sales tax, notwithstanding what I am sure is an extremely significant amount of sales tax that we’ve paid since the initiation of the program,” Seabrook Island Mayor Bruce Kleinman said.
The legwork leading up to the improvements has been mostly handled by the Town of Seabrook Island in terms of permitting and the necessary coastal zone certificate. In late 2025, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services Bureau of Coastal Management issued a Critical Area Permit and Coastal Zone Consistency Certification for the Seabrook Island Road Improvement Project. This permit is good for five years. Cronin said that they are pursuing additional permits from SCDES-BCM and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and anticipates them being issued later in 2026.
These proactive measures by the town on permitting should result in Seabrook Island Road being “shovel-ready” at the time of the county’s referendum.
The Transportation Sales Tax program has generated approximately $3.4 billion for transportation projects throughout Charleston County since 2004, yet Seabrook Island Road has never received transportation sales tax funding for any project within municipal limits.
Cronin added that even if they are successful with securing Transportation Sales Tax funding for the road improvements, it would be at least a year before they could even get started. “Realistically, it would be fair to say that it would take about 12 to 18 months,” he said.
The roads behind the gate on Seabrook Island are privately owned, but outside of the gate, Seabrook Island Road is a public road.
Cronin went on to say that the best thing that could happen is community support for this project.
“In terms of advocating for this project, the best thing that could happen is that our residents submit public comments saying this project is important,” he said. “This is something our community needs, and we want to see it on the referendum. If we get a few hundred people to submit comments, like residents and visitors to Seabrook, in support of the project, I think that would carry far more weight than any letter of recommendation that we could submit.”
The Seabrook Island Town Council voted unanimously to request that Charleston County include Seabrook Island Road in its transportation sales tax referendum.
They plan to launch a public initiative to encourage residents and visitors to submit public comments about the importance of the Seabrook Island Road project.
TIDE CHART
SAT., FEB 7, 2026 11:53 AM 5:50 AM, 5:54 PM SUN., FEB 8, 2026 12:34 AM, 12:37 PM. 6:41 AM, 6:36 PM
MON., FEB 9, 2026 1:23 AM, 1:26 PM 7:36 AM, 7:24 PM
TUE., FEB 10, 2026. 2:15 AM, 2:20 PM 8:34 AM, 8:19 PM
WED, FEB 11, 2026 3:13 AM, 3:18 PM 9:31 AM, 9:17 PM
THU., FEB 12, 2026 4:11 AM, 4:17 PM 10:26 AM, 10:14 PM
FRI., FEB 13, 2026. 5:07 AM, 5:12 PM 11:16 AM, 11:07 PM
SAT., FEB 14, 2026 5:56 AM, 6:02 PM 12:02 PM, 11:57 PM
SUN., FEB 15, 2026 6:41 AM, 6:46 PM 12:45 PM
MON., FEB 16, 2026 7:21 AM, 7:27 PM 12:44 AM, 1:24 PM
TUE, FEB 17, 2026 7:58 AM, 8:06 PM 1:28 AM, 2:02 PM
WED., FEB 18, 2026 8:34 AM, 8:44 PM 2:11 AM, 2:39 PM
THU., FEB 19, 2026 9:10 AM, 9:24 PM 2:55 AM, 3:17 PM
FRI., FEB 20, 2026 9:49 AM, 10:07 PM 3:39 AM, 3:57 PM
his knowledge of iPhone photography, which he has built over 15 years since he bought an iPhone 4 in 2010. His creative images have been recognized internationally and exhibited in galleries around the world, including SOHO Gallery in New York and the L.A. Mobile Arts Festival.
Drew’s Zoom presentation to our club will focus on getting the most out of Snapseed. Snapseed is a powerful free app that allows iPhone and Android photographers to process and stylize images 100% on their mobile phone or tablet. Most digital images benefit from some editing, and Snapseed is one of the most popular apps for editing photos taken with your mobile phone. It has tools that allow users to stylize their images with textures, add vintage looks, create composites, convert color photos to black and white, process portraits to perfection and more.
Join Drew as he takes us deep into the many powerful tools Snapseed has to offer to help take your cell phone photos to another level. Even if your cell phone is the only camera you own, his talk will give you some great ideas to elevate your images. This presentation will appeal to photographers of all skill levels.
We hope you can join us on February 19 at the Lake House from 6:15 until 8:15 p.m. The event is free for club members and firsttime guests. For non-residents of Seabrook, arrange for a gate pass by emailing seabrookislandphotographyclub22@gmail.com.
PRIVATE JET CHARTER FROM ATLANTIC JZI
OPINION
Reddy or Not: Assault on property rights
BY ROM REDDY | For The Island Connection
Ihope you are all paying attention to what I believe is an assault on property rights happening before our eyes. Freedom and property rights, which are intricately linked, do not disappear overnight. They erode gradually until one day you wake up and realize we have replaced God as our shepherd with the government.
At the January 29 City Council meeting, there was a six-minute segment following executive session that may have been overlooked during the more than two-hour meeting. The mayor of Isle of Palms made a motion to forgo seeking permanent easements from residents for the upcoming beach renourishment and instead proposed simply assuming an easement. This was done with the concurrence of the city administrator, who stated that obtaining easements had been difficult during the last renourishment effort.
New Council Member David Cohen wisely objected, saying, “I disagree. I don’t think that we should be going onto people’s properties without their permission.” Thank you, David, for your commitment to property rights. Why is this important?
Under South Carolina beach management law (48-39-280 A1), the baseline is set at the crest of the primary dune for standard zones and at the 40-year erosion line for inlet zones. When renourishment is performed, it is done so that the crest of the new dune aligns with the existing baseline, with all renourishment occurring seaward of the dune and baseline. No easement is required for this work, as the state has jurisdiction seaward of the setback line.
The area between the baseline/setback line and a homeowner’s escarpment is the responsibility of the homeowner, as is done on Folly Beach. Any interference landward of the setback line without an easement would constitute trespassing — something the mayor and city administrator appeared willing to disregard by using the power of the city to assume jurisdiction.
Why should every property owner decline to provide either a temporary or permanent easement? Because if an easement is granted, the plan is not to place the dune at the baseline, but rather at the eroded property escarpment. When the next survey is conducted to reset the baseline — which is scheduled to occur for Isle of Palms this year — the baseline would then be drawn at the crest of the new dune located on the escarpment.
This would reset the baseline landward for all affected properties, potentially placing the setback line through private yards. The result would be a permanent loss of property jurisdiction for landowners without compensation. The city administrator has already publicly stated that once renourishment occurs, the renourished land becomes “property of the state.” Having worked with beach management laws for two years, I believe this statement is inconsistent with the law, but it is what the Department of Environmental Services and the far-left, radical, tax-exempt Coastal Conservation League want property owners to believe.
The 2018 amendment to the beach management laws abandoned retreat and adopted replenishment and renourishment as policy. Lawmakers assumed DES would adopt a policy consistent with renourishment, which it has not. The amendment also stated that the baseline could not be moved seaward of the 2018 baseline due to renourishment. However, the law is so poorly written that unelected officials are interpreting it to mean that once the baseline is moved landward, it can never move seaward again. In summary, granting any type of easement allows the dune to be placed landward of the baseline, which resets the baseline landward. Officials then argue that because renourishment occurred, the baseline cannot be moved seaward again. Challenging this interpretation would require litigation, which, as my own case demonstrates, is a long and
costly process.
The broader plan to take private property became evident once correspondence was obtained through discovery. We also learned that City Engineer Steve Traynum participated on a DES “blue ribbon” panel. That panel was part of a settlement in a lawsuit between DES and the Coastal Conservation League, in which the league demanded — as a condition of settlement — that DES change regulations to expand jurisdiction into a loosely defined “beaches critical area” landward of the state-approved setback line.
The panel helped pass these regulations in May 2024. At trial, DES claimed its determination of this new critical area was based on subjective observations of a vegetative line, which would grant the state random and unpredictable authority over private property if allowed to stand. CSE and Traynum were complicit in changes that I believe are illegal and will ultimately need to be unwound in court. I find it ironic that the city pays CSE with taxpayer funds while the firm works against taxpayer interests.
Regardless of the divisions within our community, I urge residents to stand together in defense of property rights.
Reddy or Not represents the opinion of Lucky Dog Publishing owner Rom Reddy but not necessarily the opinion of the newspaper. In keeping with our philosophy of publishing all opinions, we welcome responses, which must be limited to 400 words and will be published on a space-available basis.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort opens Treehouse Activity Center
BY BRYAN HUNTER For The Island Connection
Kiawah Island Golf Resort recently announced the opening of The Treehouse Activity Center on January 22. The newly designed amenity in the heart of Night Heron Park offers recreational, dining, educational and creative experiences under one roof for guests of all ages.
A new Nature Center provides a more interpretive experience than the original center, helping immersively introduce visitors to the wonders of the island’s fascinating and ecologically important barrier island habitat. The center brings Kiawah Island’s wild side indoors, with an emphasis on local species and how they interact with the island’s interrelated ecosystems.
The Treehouse features eight full-size Spark Bowling lanes, perfect for friendly competition, family nights out or a casual group teambuilding activity. Golf enthusiasts can engage in friendly competition on two GOLFZON simulators, where they can play a virtual round on iconic courses, including Kiawah’s legendary Ocean Course. Arcade lovers can indulge in a bit of nostalgia with classic favorites and modern games, including skee-ball, air hockey, basketball hoops and Mario Kart.
Guests can immerse themselves in creative pursuits at The Art Studio, with instructed art experiences and specialty crafts including candle making, glass fusing, pottery, painting and more. Daily programs offer something new and inspiring each visit. With both indoor and covered outdoor studio space, artists of all ages and skill levels will find no shortage of inspiration to expand their imaginations and indulge their creative sides.
The Perch pub offers a casual, family-friendly spot to refuel with casual bites and drinks. The open floor plan will allow The Perch to serve guests as they enjoy the amenities and activities the Treehouse has to offer.
The opening of The Treehouse complements Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s world-class offerings, including championship golf, tennis, beach activities, outdoor recreation, dining and wellness experiences. Whether families are visiting for a long weekend or an extended stay, The Treehouse adds a new dimension to the Resort’s already robust lineup of activities.
For more information about The Treehouse Activity Center, visit kiawahresort.com/the-treehouse-activity-center.
Johns Islands students earn honors from Furman
The following Furman University students were included on the dean’s list for the 2025 fall semester. Furman’s dean’s list is composed of full-time undergraduate students who earn a grade point average of 3.4 or higher on a four-point system.
Catherine Reynolds Hester. Hester’s parents and/or guardians are Jerry Hester and Julia Hester.
Daniel Isaiah Phillips. Phillips’ parents and/or guardians are Eric Phillips and Olisa Powell.
Daniel A. Stroman. Stroman’s parents and/or guardians are Duane Stroman and Angela Stroman.
Furman is a private, undergraduate liberal arts and sciences university of 2,550 students in Greenville, South Carolina. The university is noted for its rigorous academic program and strong faculty. Its 940-acre campus is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful in the nation.
Photo courtesy of Kiawah Island Golf Resort.
February 28, 2026 I 8 AM - 3 PM
This one-of-a-kind shopping experience brings neighbors, friends, and visitors together for a fun-filled day of discovery, connection, and giving back.
I Kiawah Island Town Hall
Browse an ever-changing assortment of thoughtfully donated treasures, including:
Décor galore
Kitchen must-haves & tablescape treasures
Outdoor adventure finds
Family game night fun
Fabulous accessories
And plenty more to explore!
Back again this year, Coastal Cowgirl food truck will be on site, serving up coffee and baked goods to keep you energized and ready to keep tagging along throughout the sale.
Every purchase supports the Conservancy’s mission of preserving the places we love.
So bring your friends and your sense of curiosity because you never know what you will find at The Tag!
Open to the public. Cash and credit cards accpted. No Checks. All sales final.
Shop. Share. Support.
Every purchase helps protect the Sea Islands we all love.
Eagle nest surveys continue all month
BY SCDNR | For The Island Connection
During the month of February, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) will be conducting annual bald eagle nest surveys across the Lowcountry. These surveys are a critical part of monitoring South Carolina’s bald eagle population and tracking the continued success of this conservation effort.
As part of this work, SCDNR biologists and pilots will be flying low-altitude aircraft - sometimes at treetop level - over coastal and inland areas from Charleston south to Savannah and west to Walterboro, primarily on weekdays. These low passes are necessary to allow biologists to safely and accurately count eagle chicks in their nests.
To those on the ground, particularly near waterways, golf courses and marshes, these flights may appear unusual. Please be assured that these operations are carefully planned, FAA-coordinated and conducted safely by experienced aircrews. At no time are these flights intended to pose a risk to people or property.
These surveys represent one of South Carolina’s greatest wildlife conservation success stories. Thanks to decades of collaborative conservation efforts, the bald eagle, once endangered, has rebounded and is now thriving across much of the state.
We appreciate the public’s understanding and support as our teams work to protect and conserve South Carolina’s natural heritage.
For questions or additional information, please contact SCDNR or follow our official channels for updates.
Photo courtesy of Cacky Rivers.
