Neighborhood Watch
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
With excitement, Town Administrator Joe Cronin announced the launch of the new Seabrook Island Code Enforcement Portal, which officially occurred on July 3 and is located on the Town’s website.
At the June 27 Seabrook Island Town Council meeting, Cronin said that any individual, resident, property owner, visitor or member of the Seabrook staff could use the portal to report an alleged Town code enforcement violation.
The welcome page comes up first, which provides general instructions on how the portal works. Cronin was quick to point out that this portal will only be used for the Town’s Code of Ordinances and Development Standards Ordinance. That means that some violations may not fall within the Town, and instead should be directed to either the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association or Law Enforcement. Violations within the Town’s code would fall under the following:
• Beach Rules Violations
• Business License Violations
• General Offenses (Animals, firearms, fireworks and hours of operation)
• Nuisance Violations
• Short-Term Rental Violations
• Single-Use Plastic Violations
• Solid Waste Violations
• Tax Violations
• Zoning Violations
Cronin recognized that a common issue is that people do not always know who to report a
(continued on page 2)
Further Discussion
Needed
BY THERESA STRATFORD
For The Island Connection
How many times have we all heard that communication is key? A number of famous quotes allude to that simple fact, but somehow communication can still take a backseat – especially between business and local government.
That is exactly what the town of Seabrook Island has dealt with when it comes to the new MUSC Sea Islands Medical Pavilion.
When MUSC Health Systems CEO and Executive Vice President of Health Affairs Dr. Pat Cawley presented an update on the medical pavilion project at their June 6 Kiawah Island Town Council meeting, he mentioned that he had been in communication with Seabrook Island Town Council, but Seabrook Island Town Administrator Joe Cronin said at the June 27 Seabrook Island Town Council meeting that he had not heard from him since December of 2022.
Cronin announced at the Seabrook Island Town
Stay in the Know
SEABROOK ISLAND REAL ESTATE LAUNCHES FREE EDUCATION SERIES
Seabrook Island Real Estate is launching HOMES, a groundbreaking education series as a free service to Seabrook property owners. Each aevent will feature a panel of industry experts discussing a topic of pivotal interest impacting those who own property here.
The series kicks off on Wednesday, July 26 with “Navigating Residential Property Insurance in a Coastal Community.” HOMES stands for Home Owners Maximizing Education Series.
BY KATHLEEN DONNELLY
For The Island Connection
“As part of the fabric of this community, our agents are engaged daily in conversations with Seabrook Island’s resident and non-resident population about the state of the real estate market, the economy, rental trends, property management, carrying costs, legal issues, climate factors and other concerns that affect their real estate investment here,” said Tom Peck, interim broker in charge of Seabrook Island Real Estate.
“With our depth of knowledge, resources, and connections, we saw an opportunity to help address this tremendous need for education and insights by providing a professional forum where people can get the answers they need to make better decisions.”
“It’s a critical time in real estate right now,” added Jen Cookke, SIRE’s interim general manager. “There are so many factors coming into play. People are looking for data and advice they can trust. HOMES is yet another way we’re able to provide that for them.”
Cookke will lead the panel discussions. Her background includes asset and portfolio management, market research, capital markets and financial and development analysis. She began her career directing corporate real estate operations for Fortune 500
companies. Her firm, F.H. French Company, offers services including the acquisition and development of commercial properties, asset management, commercial brokerage, consulting, construction management and valuation services.
The educational events are framed to be very interactive and will begin with a review of relevant data, followed by a panel discussion of industry experts, and a Q&A session. Afterward, refreshments will be served for anyone wishing to further discuss the topic with the panel of experts and Seabrook Island Real Estate agents on hand in a more casual setting. The program will likely be on Zoom as well, but anyone who will be on Seabrook at the time is encouraged to attend in person for a better experience. Either way, RSVPs are being handled through Eventbrite (use the QR code displayed) or by calling the Seabrook Island Real Estate office at 843-768-2560. Peck elaborated on the subject chosen for the first event. “Insurance is such a hot topic right now. Everyone is feeling the effects and wondering what their best options are. Everywhere on Seabrook, whether it is on the golf course, at the Beach Club or on social media like NextDoor, people are talking and worrying about it. We are grateful to be in a position to share SIRE’s expertise in the ever-changing landscape of real estate ownership on this and more critical topics to come.”
Cookke added, “So much has changed on Seabrook Island so quickly. Trends and market changes have a significant impact on all of us as owners. HOMES is meant to help everyone learn more about the topics that affect all of us and our investment.”
Visit seabrookisland.com.
Left to right, Jen Cookke and Tom Peck.
PUBLISHERS OF
The Island Eye News, The Island Connection & SiP Magazine
Denise K. James editor
ICeditor@luckydognews.com
Swan Richards graphic design
Laura Anderson web editor
Jeff Lovins sales manager jeff@luckydognews.com 843-885-8662
Lynn Pierotti consultant lynn@luckydognews.com
Christian LeBlanc social media christian@luckydognews.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Theresa Stratford
Chris Johnson
Mary Anne Rayfield
Beth Wright
Future submission deadline: JULY 18 for the JULY 28 issue
Code Enforcement (continued from page 1)
violation to. “We don’t have the ability to enforce certain things like criminal violations or traffic violations, for example. We also don’t impose restrictions by private covenants. But if you go to this website, you can now see what issues we do enforce and what entity you should contact for the other violations.”
The site even provides the contact numbers and websites for those other entities like the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, SIPOA, the Seabrook Island Club and a list of the Seabrook Island Regimes and Associations.
Here is a list of what the Town does not enforce:
• Criminal offenses (including drugs and alcohol). Dial 911.
• Loud noise/music (behind SIPOA gate). Contact SIPOA or regime/association, as applicable.
• Loud noise/music (outside SIPOA gate). Dial 911.
• Outdoor storage of beach equipment. Contact SIPOA or regime/association, as applicable.
• Overnight parking on private streets. Contact SIPOA or regime/association, as applicable.
• Traffic violations (behind SIPOA gate). Contact SIPOA.
• Traffic violations (Outside SIPOA gate). Dial 911 or contact the CCSO non-emergency line.
• Trespassing on golf courses or other club properties. Contact the Seabrook Island Club.
• Violations of SIPOA or regime/association rules. Contact SIPOA or regime/association, as applicable.
Cronin added that the portal will ask for personal information on who reported the violation. “It is helpful to have that witness
MUSC
(continued from page 1)
Council meeting that he had tuned into the Kiawah Island Town Council meeting and listened to Dr. Cawley’s presentation.
“He informed the Kiawah Island Town Council that they had reached an agreement on an alternative site for the medical pavilion,” Cronin said.
The original construction site that actually broke ground in September of 2022 was halted due to an issue with the neighbor of the adjacent property. That private neighbor was not allowing an egress onto Andell Bluff Road from the original site of the medical pavilion. An egress would be an exit for traffic and emergency vehicles.
The property was planned to have a separate ingress and egress, and, due to the property being long and narrow, these entrance and exit points had to be in different locations. The ingress was set to come in off Seabrook Island Road.
The June presentation by MUSC to Kiawah Island Town Council was actually their second one this year so far. They also came to the Kiawah Island Town Council in March and presented an update about the issue with the neighboring property and how they were, at that time, looking for a new site.
The new site will work out well, Dr. Cawley assured the Kiawah Island Town Council in early June, and will be adjacent to the new Seafields at Kiawah Island senior living facility.
Cronin pointed out that the MUSC medical pavilion would have to use the same encroachment permit as the Seafields senior community, which could present a potential issue. The MUSC property is just past Seafields on the right side, so the driveway would continue past Seafields, and the MUSC medical pavilion would be next to it.
account, so we will ask for that information of who is submitting the complaint.”
But, he assured that the contact information is confidential and will not be released. He said that the form also asks if the person submitting the violation would be willing to serve as a witness if needed. “You don’t have to say yes, but if someone personally observes something happening, it will ask if they would be willing to come to court and testify. That could be valuable information. We just need to know if they would consider it.”
The location of the incident is also important to note on the form, ideally an address. It then asks about the violation by clicking categories that it fits in and then there is space for a brief description, and the user can even upload pictures.
Cronin said that short term rentals without permits can even be submitted through this portal. “Perhaps you know the property does not have a short term rental permit and maybe you know it is being used that way. Maybe you saw it on VRBO. We would like to know that.”
Once submitted, the form goes directly to the chief code enforcement officer and the full-time code enforcement officer. They can review everything on the backend of the portal and even submit a follow-up.
“There is now one central place to report, manage and track code violations. We can even run reports through the portal, and we can see if there have been repeat offenders,” Cronin concluded.
For more information, visit cognitoforms.com/ TownOfSeabrookIsland1/CodeEnforcementPortal .
“The encroachment permit approved for Seafields was a litigation that turned into a negotiated settlement applicable only to Seafields, and MUSC is not a part of that,” he continued.
Cronin said that he passed that information along to Kiawah Island’s Town Administrator Stephanie Tillerson, and she said she would let MUSC know about the concern.
Cronin added that they are not necessarily opposed to MUSC using the same encroachment as Seafields, but that there needs to be “conversations because MUSC is a not a party to the encroachment permit for Seafields.”
He said, “There were about 20 pages of duties and responsibilities of the developer of Seafields, and it was very specific toward a senior living facility.” Cronin added that there were stipulations in the encroachment permit on certain trucks using it on certain days of the week or holidays and what types of vehicles could use it in general.
Cronin said that they will need to revisit the permit and the settlement and also update traffic projections.
“MUSC was presented to Kiawah like there was no issue,” Cronin concluded. “There are many moving parts. Obviously, a lot of communication needs to happen.”
LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
843-886-NEWS
Civic Calen dar
TOWN OF SEABROOK
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, July 18 at 10 a.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Ways and Means Committee
July 24 at 1 p.m. Kiawah Island Town Hall
CERT Team
Wednesday, July 26 at 3 p.m
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, August 1 at 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Council
Utility Commission
Wednesday, July 19 at 9:30 a.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Town Council Regular Meeting
Tuesday, July 25 at 2:30 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
Public Works Committee
Monday, August 7 at 12 p.m.
Seabrook Island Town Hall
. PHOTO COURTESY OF MUSC HEALTH
It Floats Their Boats
3RD ANNUAL REGATTA MORE THAN DOUBLES IN PARTICIPATION
BY CHRIS JOHNSON For The Island Connection
The Charleston Ocean Racing Association, in partnership with presenting sponsor Blackbaud, announced that the third annual race, held June 3 in Charleston Harbor, increased in the number of veterans and active-duty racers from 50 in 2022 to 132 this year. In total, 26 boats participated, with 11 of the racing skippers being veterans.
Active military and veterans participated as crewmembers aboard racing sailboats from all over the Southeast. The top three finishers, who all hail from the Charleston area, were as follows:
Cruising Class - Marion Made, Wayne Brudick, Captain.
Non-Spin Class - Cheers, Tom Mackin, Captain.
Spinnaker Class - Skimmer, Miles Martschick and Ben Hagood, Captains.
John Young, senior director of business operations and leader of VETS Affinity Group at Blackbaud said, “Blackbaud was privileged to once again be the presenting sponsor of the third annual Military Salute Regatta. This event is a meaningful way to support our military community here in Charleston where we’re headquartered. The event brings the community together to honor active-duty and military veterans and lift up nonprofits that provide care and
support for military members and their families. We’re already looking forward to next year.”
Benefitting from the event’s fundraising activities were Veterans on Deck and Fisher House-Charleston. Each organization received a $2,500 donation from this year’s event.
Chris Stinson, CORA Commodore said, “The ability to freely participate in a sport we are so passionate about is due in large part to the sacrifices of our military. We value the opportunity to share the sport with them and will show our continuing appreciation with the 4th Annual Military Salute Regatta in 2024. The planned date for next year’s race is June 8.”
For more results go to the CORA website at charlestonoceanracing.com/ racing/2023-race-results.
COURTESY OF CHARLESTON OCEAN RACING ASSOC
Time for Some Tennis
ALAN FLEMING SENIOR CLAY COURT CHAMPIONSHIP RETURNS TO SEABROOK ISLAND
BY MARY ANNE RAYFIELD
For The Island Connection
High caliber tennis returns to Seabrook Island again this year as the 39th annual Alan Fleming Senior Open Championship gets underway October 4 - 8 at the Seabrook Island Racquet Club. The tournament has evolved to become a premier clay court event in Southern senior tennis and attracts hundreds of elite players from across the country.
The event itself has won many accolades, including South Carolina Adult Tournament of the Year and Level 1 national designation by the USTA for senior mixed doubles. Tennis players 30 and older can register for men’s or women’s singles and doubles to compete in the Level 3 Open State Championship.
Mixed doubles pairs ages 40 and older can compete to win a coveted USTA gold ball award for their age bracket, as well as earning top points for performing in our Level 1 event, the highest amateur level competition. Past draws in this category have included former professional tour players, Davis Cup contenders, National Gold Ball Champions, regional collegiate
standouts and other highly ranked amateur elite players.
Local tennis players should not miss out on this opportunity to compete among the top-tier talent that return each year to our world class facility. Player registration includes entry into the oceanfront Friday evening party with cocktails, dinner and dancing to a live band. Tournament sponsors, including the Town of Seabrook, are honored to host an exciting and memorable weekend of fierce competition and Lowcountry beach relaxation.
Laura Ferreira, director of racquet sports at the Seabrook Island Club, works with the USTA and various groups to coordinate the event. She said, “Our commitment to making this tournament a favorite for top players is one of the reasons we see growth year after year. Our community really comes together in support for the tennis and the fans.”
As in the past, the event is free to spectators and open to the public. The Seabrook Island Club will offer a food service tent at courtside during lunch where anyone can purchase hot dogs,
2022.
hamburgers and other refreshments. Restaurants and retail stores are conveniently close to the facility, located at Bohicket Marina and Freshfields Village.
The Alan Fleming Tournament has a sustained legacy of raising funds to support worthy causes beyond the event. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Seabrook Island Employee Assistance Fund, an organization
that serves the needs of many valued individuals who invest their time and skills into our community daily. The sponsors, players, volunteers and individual contributors are essential and appreciated for their participation in the success of the tournament and commitment to this charity. Tournament registration opens August 1, 2023. Additional information is available at alanflemingtournament.net.
Charlotte Hartsock and Scott Nichols, winners of the 50+ Mixed Doubles Gold Ball in
You’ve Got Mail . . . and Patriotic Spirit
CONTEST WINNERS REVEALED BY SEABROOK
BY BETH WRIGHT
For The Island Connection
ISLAND GARDEN CLUB
The winners of our Seabrook Island Garden Club’s annual Most Patriotic Mailbox Contest have been revealed. The Garden Club thanks everyone who participated to show American spirit on Seabrook Island. Here are the winners — did your favorite make the cut?
1st place: 2453 Golf Oak Park was the winner. This mailbox display is a wonderful summertime July 4 celebration, complete with a beautiful floral arrangement, beach chair, umbrella, fireworks, a picnic spread at the beach and more. So well done a
perfect salute to Independence Day. 2nd place (tie): 3510 Deer Run and 3241 Seabrook Island Road were both so creative and fun, it was too close to call. A God Bless America meets Under the Sea creation was like nothing we've ever seen, and Let Freedom Ring is a red, white and blue explosion of celebration. Both displays made judges smile.
3rd place: 2465 The Bent Twig is a Happy Birthday party for the USA, featuring a sparkly cake, lots of candles and more.
Gadsden Glen Center for Health and Rehab opened in 2022 to restore strength and spirit, providing a healing experience unlike any other in the Southeast.
The award-winning Gadsden Glen, now welcomes the Charleston community. With costs in-line with the area, Medicare and insurance coverage allows you to select Gadsden Glen for your short-term post-acute rehabilitation, setting you on a course of improved health and wellness
There’s a new boat club at Bohicket Marina COME CHECK US OUT
BOAT CLUB
• Offers the ultimate boating experience without the hassles of ownership
• Experience the charm of the Lowcountry waterways, where boating dreams come to life
• Take advantage of exclusive perks as a member of our Boat Club
• Hassle-free boating lifestyle where we do all the work for you
• Access reservations through our Custom App for easy bookings
• Unlimited access with future reservation options as well as day-of opportunities
• Access to the four sister locations throughout the Charleston area
• A one-stop shop for all your boating needs
BOAT RENTALS
• Bohicket Marina offers the freedom of boating to all with our new Boat Rental fleet
• Wide range of boats tailored to your needs and preferences, pontoons & center consoles
• Perfect for both experienced boaters and beginners discovering a new hobby
• Convenient online booking system for quick and easy reservations
• Benefit from our professional staff’s expertise and personalized recommendations
ONGOING
WHAT: Creek Fishing
around the islands...
WHEN: Varying time slots and dates are available online. WHERE : Mingo Point, Kiawah Island
MORE INFO: Kiawah is offering a shortened version of their popular Inshore Fishing Charter this month. The charter will remain in smaller channels and tidal creeks to catch Kiawah Island’s saltwater fish. The cost is $450 for up to two anglers and $50 per additional angler. This is a single-party voyage with a capacity of six people. For more info call (843) 768-6001.
WHAT: Camp Xtreme
WHEN: Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE : Night Heron Basketball Court, Kiawah Island
MORE INFO: Kiawah Island is offering morning, afternoon and full day camps for children ages 8-13 years old. Campers will participate in scavenger hunts, team building games, different sports and more. Reservations for this camp can be made online or via phone. Tennis shoes and comfortable clothing are recommended, please pack your camper a reusable water bottle. More details available on the Kiawah Island website.
WHAT: Glass Fusing 101
WHEN: Mondays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
WHERE : Turtle’s Nest Art Studio, Kiawah Island
MORE INFO : Learn how to cut, layer and design glass pieces to create a piece of art glass that is uniquely yours. Reservations are required for this event, ages 5 and above are welcome. Children 7 and under mus be accompanied by an adult. This course is $45 per person, different upgrades are available.
WHAT: Polymer Clay Play
WHEN: Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
WHERE : Turtle’s Nest Art Studio
MORE INFO: Choose from a variety of colored clay or create your own custom colors. This event encourages creative thinking and allows participants to create their own project. Create one of a kind hair clips, sea turtles, magnets, jewelry dishes, spoon rests, the options are endless. Reservations are required, cost per person is $35. This activity is for ages 5 and up, those under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.
WHAT: Movie in the Park
WHEN: Tuesdays, 8:45 p.m.
WHERE : Night Heron Park Stage
MORE INFO : All are invited to this family friendly event! Bring lawn chairs, and blankets; concessions will be available for purchase. The movie schedule for the remained of this month is: “Finding Dory” on July 18, and “Holes” on July 25.
SATURDAY, JULY 15
WHAT: Back Island Birding
WHEN: 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
WHERE : Night Heron Park 4000 Sea Forest Drive, Kiawah Island
MORE INFO: This van tour will be led by a Kiawah Island Naturalist. The cost is $60 per person. Participants will have the opportunity to visit several remote bird habitats across the island. You must be 14 or older to participate, reservations are required and space is limited. At each site, you will get the opportunity to explore the area on foot, so dress appropriately, and bring sunscreen and bug spray as needed.
TUESDAY, JULY 18
What: Power Vinyasa Yoga
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
WHERE : Sanctuary Beach Access, Kiawah Island
CONNECTING
MORE INFO: Practice intermediate and expert level yoga poses while breathing in the crisp ocean air. Ashtanga yoga and vinyasa movements will help relax your body while improving your flexibility. Previous yoga experience is recommended for this activity. The cost is $25 per person, must be 13 or older. Reservations are required. Mats are provided, please bring a water bottle and sunscreen.
WHAT: Youth Archery Lesson
WHEN: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE : Night Heron Park, 4000 Sea Forest Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
MORE INFO: Meet at the archery range to test your archery skills. This staff instructed lesson gives children ages 8-12 the opportunity to learn how to shoot a bow and arrow, in a controlled environment. This is a great opportunity for beginners to practice and improve their skills. The cost is $45 per person and reservations are required.
SATURDAY, JULY 21
What: Music on the Green
WHEN: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
WHERE : Freshfields Village, 165 Village Green Ln, Kiawah Island
MORE INFO: Join the communtiy of Seabrook and Kiawah Island for a family friendly concert featuring regional bands! All are invited to Music on the Green. This is a great way to meet those in your community and explore the culture.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 26
What: Chow Town Food Truck Rodeo
WHEN: 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE : Seabrook Island Town Hall, 2001 Seabrook Island Rd
MORE INFO: Join the community of Seabrook Island for the second annual Chow Town Food Truck Festival. Bring your friends, family or venture off solo friends for an evening of live music, food truck vendors, and relaxing. The event is featuring musical artists Molly Durning, Don Colton, David Tabaka and The Time Pirates. BYOBC (Bring your own beach chair.)
WHAT: Candle Making
WHEN : 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
WHERE : Turtle’s Nest Art Studio, 4000 Sea Forest Drive, Kiawah Island
MORE INFO: Work with a chandler to create a candle that is uniquely yours, from the beginning of the candle making process to the end. Participants will have the opportunity to design their own candle label or decorate a jar. Reservations are required, ages 5 and up are welcome (children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.) Cost per person is $40.
FRIDAY, JULY 28
What: Kyle Mercer at Charleston Distilling Company
WHEN : 5 p.m.
WHERE : Charleston Distlling Company, 3548 Meek’s Farm Rd, John’s Island MORE INFO: Head to Charleston Distilling Company for a fun night of live music, beer and food with friends. No reservations required, all are invited.
SATURDAY, JULY 29
WHAT: Three Cheese in 3 Hours
WHEN : 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE : Jeremiah Farm & Goat Dairy, 3853 Platt Rd, John’s Island
MORE INFO: This demonstration style class will allow guests to learn how to make feta, mozzarella, and whole milk ricotta. Upon arrival guests will be given a tour of the goat farm and garden, gathering fresh, local ingredients to use in the cheese making process. Come hungry, participants consume the delicious cheese we make in this class. The cost is $60 per person.
& 10:30am
Janina Karluk 843.270.6688
www.KiawahHouseCare.com
6:15am/6:49pm 7:05am/7:36pm 7:53am/8:20pm 8:39am/9:01pm 9:23am/9:41pm 10:05am/10:18pm 10:45am/10:54pm 11:25am/11:28pm 12:04pm 12:03am/12:44pm 12:41am/1:27pm 1:24am/2:15pm 2:13am/3:08pm 3:08am/4:06pm 12:21am/12:11pm 1:11am/1:00pm 1:58am/1:46pm 2:41am/2:29pm 3:22am/3:11pm 4:00am/3:51pm 4:36am/4:30pm 5:10am/5:10pm 5:43am/5:52pm 6:18am/6:37pm 6:55am/7:27pm 7:37am/8:23pm 8:25am/9:25pm 9:20am/10:28pm
We list and sell more real estate on Seabrook Island than all other companies combined. If you are looking to purchase a new home, cottage, villa, or homesite — or list your property — contact one of our expert REALTORS ® today!
