IC Mar 22

Finally on Track

MUSC MEDICAL CENTER WILL SOON BE A REALITY

BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection

Amedical center for Charleston County’s Sea Island community will become a reality very soon, said MUSC’s COO Tom Crawford at the recent Seabrook Island Town Council meeting on February 27.

It was October of 2019 when the Medical University of South Carolina first proposed a Certificate of Need application with the state of South Carolina for a Sea Islands Emergency Department to be located on Seabrook Island Road on Johns Island.

Now, almost four and a half years later, the project is finally taking shape, and Crawford presented the latest update to Seabrook Island’s Town Council and constituents.

If the process would have moved forward as planned at the first site – which was located across from the current newest site – the MUSC medical center would likely be up

No Need for Speed SEABROOK DEBATES SPEED LIMIT

BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection

It was a no-go for Seabrook Island Town Council Member Dan Kortvelesy when he presented the public safety committee’s recommendation about speed limit changes on Seabrook Island Road at the Town Council meeting on February 27.

The change, however, was certainly not due to a need for speed – quite the contrary actually. What Kortvelesy and the public safety committee members recommended was to keep the controversial speed limit of 15 mph near the crosswalk by the gate, increase it to only 25 mph for a short period and then hit 35 mph for the remainder of the road.

The reason 15 mph has been considered “controversial” is because, as Mayor Bruce Kleinman stated, “I can’t think of one thing that the Town has done that more people complain about than a 15 mph speed limit.”

To that, Kortvelesy retorted, “Every time you ask people, you’ll get a third that say it is too much, a third that say it’s just right and a third to say it is too little – it’s the Goldilocks syndrome.”

It’s important to note that Kortvelesy didn’t offer just one option on how to

(continued on page 2)

TBY MARTHA ZINK For The Island Connection

his year, there are five spectacular homes on the Kiawah Art and House Tour, all with beautiful views, unique and interesting architecture and great art work.

Cassique Home: Entertainment spaces in spades

The first home in the Cassique neighborhood is a tranquil home designed for the owners’ empty nest lifestyle. Set alongside woods with a wraparound lagoon, the home is one level, filled with light from large doors and windows. The large great room centers around a hand-applied plaster fireplace. At one end of the house is a dramatic entertainment room which opens to the master bedroom suite. At the other end of the house is the kitchen. Every room opens to the deck which runs the length of the house. There is a pool, outdoor kitchen, dining area and barrel ceiling entertainment area.

Above the garage there is a sitting area, two ensuite bedrooms and a bunk room to accommodate guests.

Riverview Home: A nature-watching paradise

Next to the Kiawah River in the Rhett’s Bluff neighborhood is a shingled house in a naturally landscaped setting. The main floor is an open floor plan with a dining area, wood beamed chef’s kitchen with a large island and a casual sitting area with a “pub.” In the back of the house is a screened porch with kitchen, a pool and a spa with four small fountains. In one wing of the house is the master suite and spa-like bath. The other wing leads to a bunk room with four queen-size beds. A circular tower staircase opens to three bedrooms on the second floor with a “Sister’s Deck” for nature-watching. The third floor houses a semi-circular office, a den with a wet bar, a

(continued on page 5)

The Preserve

Cassique Home

Riverview

Ocean Oaks

Marshview

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MUSC (continued from page 1)

and running by now. However, due to issues with the owner of a neighboring property, MUSC had to start over and find a new site, finally identified in June of 2023.

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 new location is now set for an area adjacent to the new Seafield’s senior community.

“This works better for us, but it did cause a delay. We had to do a feasibility study to make sure it would fit what we wanted in building square footage, a helipad and an ingress/egress. That whole process started in December of 2022, so there was a significant delay.”

Crawford reassured that although the footprint is smaller, they will offer the same services planned for the original site. “If demand for other services arises, hopefully we can satisfy those needs too,” he said.

The helipad will allow for MUSC to be able to get to a level one trauma center in 10 minutes, versus over an hour in a car with traffic. They will, of course, also have ground transport for non-emergencies.

Crawford emphasized that the medical offices that people currently travel to Charleston for will now be right here on Kiawah and Seabrook Islands

The next step for MUSC is to get the ARB approvals, which they expect by the middle of the month. MUSC is working with the Town of Seabrook Island’s staff on existing encroachment concerns with the bike path, and they expect to have a resolution on that very soon.

“We intend to build on the location and do it in such a way where there is no significant disruption to the services or anything that people enjoy,” he said.

Crawford also updated that they are on track for permitting and will be working with the Town of Seabrook Island on signage.

He mentioned that they hope to start building at the end of May and expect about a 14-month building period, which would put the completion date in the summer of 2025. “You will start to see a lot of activity on this property starting in June of this year, and we will be at a full-court press to get it operational as quickly as possible.”

The topping-out ceremony, which is when the last beam is put in place and stakeholders sign it, will likely occur in the fall of this year. The full cost of the facility comes to $30 million. MUSC is raising $17 million in private support and $9.5 million in gifts. Mayor of Seabrook Island Bruce Kleinman concluded, “We look forward to working with you all for a very long time, and we look forward to having you back to speak about other updates soon.”

Once complete, the MUSC medical center will provide:

• A free-standing emergency room, with trauma rooms and fast-track triage;

• Imaging, including CT scans, X-rays and ultrasounds;

• Radiology services;

• Full lab and diagnostic treatment services;

• Helipad and ground transport;

• Primary care and other outpatient services, as well as telehealth pods;

• Physical and occupational therapy treatment rooms;

• Cardiology with rotating subspecialties (including ECHO, EKG testing);

• Orthopedics;

• ENT services.

TOWN OF KIAWAH

Ways

For

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Op-ed

Dog Publishing or its staff

not

Committee

Tuesday, Apr. 2, 10 a.m.

Kiawah Town Hall

Town Council

Tuesday, Apr. 2, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Town Hall

Planning Commission

Wednesday, Apr. 3, 2 p.m.

Kiawah Town Hall

Arts and Cultural Event Council

Thursday, Apr. 4, 2 p.m.

Kiawah Town Hall

Speed Limit (continued from page 1)

fix the problem of safety and dealing with residential complaints of the speed limit being too low – in fact, he presented three alternatives.

The existing condition with the speed limit on Seabrook Island Road is that the speed limit is 15 mph past the crosswalk near the gate, which extends out past Town Hall, and then the speed limit abruptly changes to 35. There is also an electric sign that displays each car’s speed limit as it passes by the 15 mph sign.

Alternative one, which was recommended by Kortvelesy and the public safety committee, provided the following improvements:

• Relocate the 15 mph sign with radar 150 feet north of the crosswalk.

• Retain the “Pedestrian Crossing Ahead” sign at the current location.

• Relocate the “15 mph Ahead Warning” sign 150 to 200 feet north of the “Pedestrian Crossing Ahead” sign.

• Install a 25 mph sign 600+ feet north of the “15 mph Ahead Warning” sign.

However, Mayor Kleinman said he could not recommend an alternative due to public outcry against 15 miles per hour. “There are very few people hitting 15 miles per hour. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office said that [the speed] was rarely met,” he said. Kortvelesy also presented an alternative two scenario, which would include the following adjustments:

• Retain the “15 mph Ahead Warning” sign and all signs farther south at current locations.

• Install a 25 mph sign 600+ feet north of the “15 mph Ahead Warning” sign.

• Do not install a 25 mph sign within 200 feet of the “Deer Crossing” sign to the north.

And lastly, alternative three provides the following improvements:

• Replace the northbound 15 mph sign with a 25 mph sign.

• Replace the southbound 15 mph sign with a 25 mph sign and reprogram radar to alert of speeds over 25 mph.

• Replace the southbound “15 mph Ahead Warning” sign with a “Deer Crossing” sign.

Kortvelesy admitted that the reason the public safety committee favored alternative one was because of wanting to keep the crosswalk as safe as possible for pedestrians.

“Unfortunately, 15 miles per hour just isn’t working. It isn’t creating a safer environment because drivers aren’t observing that speed limit,” Kleinman replied.

Seabrook Island’s Property Owners Association has a 15 mph sign near the gate, but since the road changes to a private road at that point, the Town does not have the authority to change it. Since the road is public after the gate, the Town can adjust the speed limit there.

Kortvelesy contended that an abrupt change from 15 mph to 35 mph was not working and that a gradual increase to 25 mph would be an improvement.

“Really, what Dan wants is closer to alternative three,” said Town Administrator Joe Cronin. “Using the existing 15 miles per hour sign from SIPOA, making the zone in front of Town Hall 25, and then hitting that 35 miles per hour sign.”

The motion that was carried was made by Mayor Kleinman. The only “nay” came from Kortvelesy.

They decided on the following:

• Remove the “Reduce Speed Ahead” sign (in-bound).

• Change the 15 mph sign from 15 to 25 mph.

• Remove the electric display of speed limit changes.

• Task the Public Safety Committee to investigate either larger signs or larger buttons to make people more aware of the crosswalk button.

• Outbound: Change the existing 15 mph to a 25 mph after the crosswalk (on the public Town road).

• Match the signs that say 35 mph with each other on either side of the road.

TOWN OF SEABROOK

Town Council Regular Meeting

Tuesday, Mar. 26, 2:30 p.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Special Committee on Short Term Rentals

Wednesday, Mar. 27, 10 a.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Special Committee on Short Term Rentals

Wednesday, Apr. 3, 1 p.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Planning Commission Meeting

Wednesday, Apr. 10, 1:30 p.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

SCDNR Coastal Region Promotion

DENNETTA DAWSON NAMED LAW ENFORCEMENT CAPTAIN

BY SCDNR For The Island Connection

The S.C.

Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division has promoted Dennetta Dawson to captain over Region 4, overseeing units along the entire coast.

Dawson was pinned during a law enforcement committee meeting this month and became the first woman to lead a region at SCDNR.

“I am honored to serve the citizens of South Carolina and partner with a community of men and women who strive to protect the natural resources of our state,” she said.

Dawson began her law-enforcement career in 1997 as a conservation officer in McCormick County. She was transferred to Charleston County, where she worked in recreational and commercial fisheries enforcement for several years.

major over the SCDNR investigations division.

She then joined the Education Division as a staff sergeant. Her love for boating has always been present, as displayed in her 16-year participation in the Boating Safety Action Force (B-SAF) team, specializing in boating enforcement and detecting boating under the Influence. She was then promoted to lieutenant of the Education and Outreach Section. Now, she returns to Region 4 as captain.

She succeeds Michael Paul Thomas, who earlier this year was promoted to

Region 4 encompasses the state’s coastal waters and nine counties, including Charleston, Beaufort, Colleton, Dorchester, Berkeley, Hampton, Jasper, Georgetown and Horry.

Dawson received a bachelor’s degree from Charleston Southern University and a master’s degree from The Citadel. In 2023, she completed the Command Officers Development Course from the Southern Police Institute of Louisville, Kentucky.

Dennetta Dawson.

Do You Play Pickleball?

EAST COOPER COMMUNITY OUTREACH UNVEILS THE BIG DILL

BY ASHLEY AVERA For The Island Connection

East Cooper Community Outreach will hold its highly anticipated, inaugural charity pickleball tournament June 14 through June 16. The Big Dill is slated for the 16-court pickleball facility at Collins Park in North Charleston.

Pickleball enthusiasts, players of all skill levels and community members are invited to participate in the three-day tournament, where competitors will face off in seniors, doubles and mixed doubles divisions. The tournament is being held in partnership with Pickleball Charleston, a local organization that is rooted in building community across all ages and skill sets through the love of pickleball. Its goal is to celebrate sportsmanship and teamwork through the nation’s fastest-growing sport while providing a top-tier experience to every

SUNDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY, MARCH

WEDNESDAY, MARCH

player who steps on the court.

“The Big Dill is not just about playing the sport we love; it’s about making a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it most,” said ECCO Marketing Manager Ashley Avera. “All proceeds from this event will go toward helping ECCO continue to help those facing financial distress.”

“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America right now, and ECCO wanted to be a part of that movement. This will be the first large-scale charity tournament in the Charleston area and a perfect opportunity to give back to the local community while enjoying a weekend of competition and fun,” Director of Development and Marketing Don Squires added.

For more information about The Big Dill, visit eccocharleston.org/thebigdill.

THURSDAY,

SATURDAY, MARCH

SUNDAY,

PHOTOS

Art Imitating (Sea) Life

APRIL ARTIST OF THE MONTH

BY BONNIE YOUNGINER For The Island Connection

Rob Bavier grew up on the water and comes from a family of sailors. Both his father and grandfather participated in the America’s Cup, with his father being skipper of the Constellation in the 1964 successful Cup defense.

With that background, it is not surprising that Bavier’s earliest memories are of racing on Long Island Sound and cruising the ever-changing coast of Maine. The changing moods of the sea always fascinated him and the different moods are reflected in his art.

Bavier no longer races, but now he has retired to Seabrook Island where he leads plein air outings. There, the ocean and tidal marshes fill his daily routines. He returns every summer to sail the coast of Maine.

Trained as an architect, the artist started painting watercolor renderings of his designs and then branched out with watercolors as an art form. Since then, he has added oils and pastels to his palette and enjoys moving back and forth between the different mediums as the mood and subject dictate.

ROB BAVIER

"Bohicket Return" 20 x 40 in oil.

He has received recognition from the American Society of Marine Artists and the Oil Painters of America. Participating in juried exhibits, he has received “Best in Show” and “Best Watercolor” awards. Bavier was invited by the Marlborough Arts

House Tour (continued from page 1)

reading room, half bath and two balconies overlooking the Kiawah River. Marshview Home: Panoramic marsh views

Another house in Rhett’s Bluff is a contemporary home designed to blend with the marsh and offer views from most rooms. The towering glass-enclosed stairwell leading to all three floors features a multistory glass chandelier. Eight-foot doors lead to the firstfloor open plan consisting of a living room, dining area, sitting area with wet bar and large chef’s kitchen. A large screened porch leads to an outdoor sitting area and infinity pool. The second floor master suite fills one wing and the other wing features two bedrooms, one entered through double barn glass doors. At the top of the house there is a wet bar/coffee station, an office and additional bedroom. The outdoor sitting area between these two rooms offers a wonderful view of the water and fishing pier. The Preserve Home: Art and architecture of outdoor living

In the Preserve is an estate built on three lots, comprising the main house, a cottage and a pavilion and pool area. The main house has many curved surfaces, mirroring Kiawah’s shoreline, and beautiful architectural features, art and furniture from Lowcountry artists. Some of the rooms on the first floor are the kitchen, billiards room and an office with an inlaid compass in the floor. The “Tranquility Room” has Pecky Cypress paneling, American Clay plaster walls and a “Nanawall,” which opens completely to a hot tub, infinity pool, large deck and spiral staircase leading to the master suite. The second floor also contains many works of art and has bedrooms with distinct themes, from “Marsh” to “Heron” to “Oak.” The master suite has plastered groin vaults, a limestone fireplace and a cupola in the curved-wall bath.

Connected to the main house by an elevated walkway is “Mimi’s Lovely Little Cottage,” a fully functioning home with a light-filled interior, cozy kitchen, den with fireplace, sitting room and bedroom. On the other side of the main house via a boardwalk, the outdoor pavilion provides a “Beach Club” style oasis. There is a 60-foot lap pool, an open-air pavilion with fireplace, wet bar, dining table, club seating and TVs. Adjacent is a standing depth hot tub, a sunken lounge with fire pit and an elevated sun deck. Ocean Oaks Home: Space for a Lowcountry soiree

Along the marsh in Ocean Park, the fifth house was designed for large gatherings and private retreat areas. The kitchen has a large island which seats nine and an intimate dining nook. The circular dining room has arched doors, and a window seat allows for an extra table for entertaining. The wet bar has gloss turquoise cabinetry. Adjacent to the kitchen is a screened porch which leads to an outdoor living area, saltwater pool, hot tub and outdoor kitchen. The impressive master bedroom on the main floor is an octagon with closets, office and bath all extending from the center. The tower stairwell contains a fight fixture resembling marsh reeds designed by the owner. The second floor has four ensuite bedrooms, most with marsh views. There is a bunk room over the garage with three beds, a living area and bath.

The tour is from 1-5 p.m. on Friday, April 5. Tickets are $75 and may be purchased online at kiawahartsetc.org. The tour is presented by Arts, etc. and presenting sponsor First National Bank. All proceeds go to literary, visual and performing art programs which Arts, etc. sponsors for the school children on Johns and Wadmalaw Islands. Other partners include Chamber Music Charleston, Charleston Jazz, Charleston Stage Company/City Stage, College of Charleston Children’s Opera, The Gaillard Center, Palmetto City Ballet, Pure Theater and Yo Art Presents.

Center to present an eight-week, one-man show titled “Sea Change.”

Most recently, his work has been accepted for the ASMA , 2021 North Regional Exhibition at Krasl Art Center and OPA’s Salon Show at the Quilan Visual Arts Center.

Seabrook Island Artist Guild will host a reception for Rob Bavier on Tuesday, April 2, 4:30 to 6 p.m. at The Lake House.

Lowcountry Cajun Festival set for April 13

BY SARAH REYNOLDS For The Island Connection

The Lowcountry Cajun Festival is back this spring at James Island County Park. Charleston’s favorite ragin’ Cajun celebration will be held April 13 from noon to 6 p.m.

Festival admission will be $35 per vehicle carrying up to 15 people. A limited number of vehicles will be admitted, and tickets are expected to sell out, so advance purchase is recommended. If tickets are available, they will be sold at the gate for $40.

Gold Passes will be valid for vehicle admission. They will not be sold on-site the day of the festival but may be purchased in advance at CharlestonCountyParks.com.

Bringing Louisiana to the Lowcountry, the Lowcountry Cajun Festival is a full day of zydeco music, food, kids’ activities and all around fun. Participants will be able to savor the taste of authentic Cajun and Creole fare, including jambalaya, alligator, etouffee, andouille sausage and crawfish. Also available will be

favorites such as seafood, Southern barbecue and traditional festival foods.

After getting their fill of food, festival-goers can boogie down to live, non-stop zydeco and Cajun music performed on stage throughout the day. The lineup:

1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. - Shrimp City Slim’s Swamp All-Stars; 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. - Randy McAllister; 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. - Gerard Delafose & the Zydeco Gators. Other entertainment includes “Who Calls the Swamp Home,” a children’s reptile program presented by Friends of Coastal South Carolina, a crawfish eating contest at 2:30 p.m., a crafters’ market, souvenirs for sale and a kids’ area.

No coolers, outside food or alcohol or pets will be permitted, and carpooling is highly encouraged. A quiet area will be offered at the Toogoodoo Porch.

For more info or to purchase tickets, visit CharlestonCountyParks. com or call 843-795-4386.

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Summer Home, Summer at the Joe

IN ADDITION TO BASEBALL, HERE’S WHAT’S AVAILABLE THIS YEAR AT THE JOE

BY JASON KEMPF For The Island Connection

Coming off of three championships and due to unprecedented demand for tickets, the RiverDogs have announced that single game tickets are currently available. Coinciding with that announcement, the Tampa Bay Rays single-A affiliate unveiled dates for the top promotional highlights of the campaign.

“We are excited to open our complete ticket inventory to our fans a few months earlier than we traditionally do,” said RiverDogs president and general manager Dave Echols. “In 2023, we set a record for sellouts and led the Carolina League in attendance. With the success the team has had on the field of late, we wanted to give our fans an opportunity to make their plans for the summer a little bit earlier.”

Weekly promotions will once again feature Dog Day Tuesdays, presented by Twisted Tea, and Wicked Wednesdays, with surprise giveaways, uniforms and theme nights, presented by Wicked Weed. Thanks to Budweiser, The Joe

will continue to feature an electric atmosphere on Thirsty Thursdays, with $1 beers. Fans are invited to join the team by wearing red every Friday on Boeing Red Shirt Fridays, with post-game fireworks presented by REV Federal Credit Union. Saturday Show at the Joe will feature some of our most creative and can’t-miss theme nights. Finally, each homestand will wrap up with MUSC Health Family Sundays, featuring free parking and kids running the bases after the game.

Single-game ticket buyers can now reserve seats for the 66-game home schedule at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park. Opening Night, presented by REV Federal Credit Union, is scheduled for April 5 at 7:05 p.m. when the RiverDogs welcome the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers to the Holy City. The jam-packed opening weekend that runs is presented by Nucor Steel Berkeley.

Tickets can be purchased at RiverDogs. com and will be delivered and accessible on a mobile device.

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Portrait of History

ESTATE SALE THIS WEEKEND INCLUDES HISTORIC GEORGE INNESS PAINTING

BY NANCY SCHWARTZ For The Island Connection

Blue Moon Estate Sales of Charleston today announced an Estate Sale to be held March 22 through 24 at a residence in downtown’s Harleston Village. Among the antiques, furniture, china, glassware, rugs, linens and flatware will be a spectacular original painting by George Inness, considered the leading American landscape painter of his time. Inness was known for his ability and skill to put evocative feelings into his interpretations of the American landscape. About the painting

After the death of his son, George Inness went through a dark period in his life, which was reflected in his work. In 1874, he went to Normandy to study under the French landscape painter Camille Corot, and the two would visit a park where a windmill was located. The windmill can be seen in the far-right bottom of the painting’s corner. Through research, it was discovered that like many painters of his time, Inness rarely signed his work – though his wife signed some of his work posthumously.

In 2005, the painting was restored at Philadelphia Art, Restoration and Conservation, where it was determined that it was a George Inness original, but without a signature, they could not officially authenticate it. In 2009, Sotheby’s valued it at $50,000.

The painting has been passed down through five generations of the current owner’s family, from Cape Cod, Massachusetts to the West Village in New York City, to a farm in the Hudson Valley New York and finally, to the home of Andy King in Charleston. King has always been fascinated by the painting and its history and traced the original purchase back to his great-grandfather Frank Lewis, who purchased it from a Boston art gallery in 1875.

The painting will be featured at the estate sale along with unique and unusual art, furniture, china, glassware, rugs, linens and flatware.

For more information, please contact Nancy Schwartz of Blue Moon Estate Sales at nancy@bluemoonestatesales.com or 843-801-6777.

Leap Year Mah Jong Day proved a huge success

BY SUSAN COOMER For The Island Connection

The clicking of the Mah Jong tiles could be heard once again at the Seabrook Island Club on February 29, when Seabrook Island Village - Neighbors Helping Neighbors celebrated leap year by holding its third annual Mah Jong Day.

A total of 68 women participated in a day of Mah Jong with lots of fun, lunch and prizes. Many ladies met new friends or connected with old friends.

The group was able to raise $2,500 to help fulfill its mission of helping

neighbors maintain living on Seabrook. There were many beginners joining the group for the first time, and Debbie Scott was awarded a prize for beginner high score.

At the end of the day, tournament winners were as follows:

First place: Bonnie Bohme

Preserving Local History

FORT SUMTER, FORT MOULTRIE COMMEMORATE THE FIRST SHOTS OF THE CIVIL WAR

BY BRETT SPAULDING For The Island Connection

The American Civil War began in April of 1861 in Charleston. To mark this historic event, a commemoration is planned at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park on Saturday and Sunday, April 13 and 14. Visitors of all ages will learn how this event impacted and reshaped the country. At Fort Moultrie on Saturday, April 13, there will be an encampment throughout the day. Ranger programs and rifle firing demonstrations will begin at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. On April 14, there will be an encampment from 9 a.m. until noon.

tension-filled days that preceded the war.

Fort Moultrie, located at 1214 Middle Street on Sullivan’s Island, is open daily 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The entrance fee will be suspended at Fort Moultrie on Saturday, April 13. To take part in the activities at Fort Sumter you will need to contact Fort Sumter Tours for ferry tickets at fortsumtertours.com.

The park represents the history of static seacoast defense in the United States from the American Revolution to the end of World War II. Additional information about Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park can be obtained at nps.gov/fosu.

Second place: Deborah Guthrie

Third place : Heidi Lantin

Seabrook Island Village is planning a Mah Jong day for the fall, so stay tuned for the date.

This year marks the 163rd anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War. On April 12, 1861, the first shots of the war were fired on United States soldiers at Fort Sumter. Living historians in period clothing will portray soldiers and civilians at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie to help provide insight into the

More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 429 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-tohome recreational opportunities. Learn more at nps.gov.

Now Open to the Charleston Community

Play a Round, Help a Neighbor CLINIC GOLF FUNDRAISER PLANNED FOR MAY 20

BY CARRIE MOORES For The Island Connection

Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic, a nonprofit organization that provides free health care to uninsured, low-income adults who live or work across the Barrier Islands and connecting communities, is hosting their 17th annual Golf Invitational fundraiser on May 20, 2024 at the River Course at Kiawah Island Club.

Funds raised from the tournament provide the operational costs for hundreds of free patient visits at the clinic each year. The golf tournament will start with lunch, followed by a shotgun start at noon, with skill events, a cocktail hour, Lowcountry Drawing, buffet dinner and awards ceremony to follow.

The River Course at the exclusive members-only Kiawah Island Club features 7,119 yards of golf, from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 75.1, and it has a slope rating of 145 on Bermuda grass. Designed by Thomas Fazio, ASGCA, The River Course extends one and a half miles along the breathtaking Kiawah River and has garnered numerous accolades as a top golf destination since its opening- including after a redesign in 2016. All proceeds from this event will benefit free health care for thousands of uninsured

adults across Charleston county, including members of the hospitality industry.

Since opening its doors in 2008, the Free Medical Clinic has provided more than 64,000 free patient visits to low-income residents and workers in the community who may not have otherwise been able to see a doctor. The Clinic provides free health care, including free primary and specialty care, lab tests and imaging, gynecology, dermatology, psychiatry, ophthalmology and more. The Clinic also helps patients address medical needs from a common cold to chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, coronary disease and depression.

Fully funded through community donations, grants and fundraisers, the annual golf invitational, hosted on Kiawah Island, is the Clinic’s largest fundraiser of the year, with 82% of each dollar raised going directly toward patient care.

To register or become a sponsor of the Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic’s Golf Invitational, visit bifmc.org/golfinvitational. For more information on Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic, visit bifmc.org.

Mark Your Calendar

SPOLETO ANNOUNCES CANDLELIT PERFORMANCE IN HISTORIC CHURCH

BY LAUREN VAN LIEW For The Island Connection

Spoleto Festival USA, America’s premier performing arts festival, announced the addition of a third choral concert to the previously announced lineup—a captivating candlelit performance of Arvo Pärt’s choral masterpiece The Deer’s Cry, with other works performed by the Spoleto Festival USA Chorus.

The Deer’s Cry will be performed on May 31 at 8 p.m. in the historic Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul. The Chorus is led by Director of Choral Activities Joe Miller and accompanied by organist Julia Harlow. Tickets are available for purchase at spoletousa.org.

This intimate performance will be an extraordinary opportunity to experience Pärt’s hauntingly beautiful work by world-class performers in the glorious acoustics and atmosphere of a church more than two centuries old. The choir will enter the dimly lit sanctuary carrying candles and will sing from center. .

“This will be an especially moving performance of this beloved choral piece that allows audiences to connect with the work on a deeper level," said Mena Mark

Hanna, Spoleto Festival USA general director. ” The program pairs Pärt’s evocative piece with Josquin des Prez’s Missa Pange Lingua and movements of Heinrich Schütz’s iconic St. Matthew Passion to form a rich tapestry of choral expression.”

The Spoleto Festival USA Chorus was established in 2021 to recruit exceptional vocal fellows to perform in multiple capacities throughout the festival, including major choral works. For more information about the Spoleto Festival USA Chorus and to purchase tickets for their 2024 Spoleto performances, visit spoletousa.org.

ONGOING

WHAT: Dining For A Cause

WHEN: Tuesday evenings, Jan. 30 - Apr. 30

WHERE: FortyEight - Wine Bar & Kitchen, Freshfields Village

MORE INFO: Guests can make a reservation on Resy anytime between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., and 50% of the revenues from their dinner(s) will be donated to the charity. More details at fortyeightwinebar.com.

WHAT: Kiawah Spirits Complimentary Tastings

WHEN: Fridays and Saturdays, 1 p.m. - 5p.m.

WHERE: Kiawah Spirits, Freshfields Village

WHAT: Textile Gallery

WHEN: Jan. 20 - Sep. 15

WHERE: Charleston Museum

MORE INFO: Quilting, a timeless form of creative expression, melds colors and patterns into purposeful objects. Like paint on canvas, fabric pieces serve as artistic boundaries, challenging individual visual acuity and imagination. We’re excited to announce a collaborative exhibition with the Gibbes Museum of Art, featuring abstract artwork alongside the Museum's quilts.

WHAT: Ming Smith: Feeling the Future

WHEN: Jan. 31 - Apr. 28

WHERE: International African American Museum

MORE INFO: The International African American Museum (IAAM) presents “Ming Smith: Feeling the Future.” This exhibition showcases the groundbreaking career of Ming Smith from the 1970s to the present, exploring her vibrant and multi-layered artistic practice.

SUNDAY, APR. 7

WHAT: College of Charleston Young Artists: Clara Camacho, Pianist

WHERE: Church of Our Savior

WHEN: 4 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Kiawah Island Arts Council and the College of Charleston Department of Music are thrilled to introduce Clara Camacho, a talented pianist with Franco-Venezuelan roots, hailing from a family of musicians. Clara's musical journey began at the age of three at the Mozarteum School in Caracas under the tutelage of Carlos Urbaneja. By the age of 10, her exceptional talent led her to be admitted to the CRR of Paris. In 2019, she earned her DEM diploma from the Regional Conservatory of Paris under the guidance of David Saudubray. Throughout her years of dedicated study, Clara achieved remarkable success, winning the prestigious National Piano Competition of Chatou for two consecutive years.

SUNDAY, APR. 14

WHAT: 18th Annual Blues by the Sea

WHERE: Freshfields Village

WHEN: 3 p.m.

MORE INFO: The much-anticipated event, Blues by the Sea, is making its triumphant return. Gather your friends and family, grab your favorite chair, spread out a picnic blanket, and pack a cooler filled with delicious treats. Settle in for a delightful evening by the sea as you immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and electrifying rhythms of live blues music. The impressive line up will be released soon, so stay tuned.

WEDNESDAY, APR.

24

WHAT: Piano Bar with Chris Dodson

WHERE: The Sandcastle

WHEN: 5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Join talented veteran singer/songwriter/teacher Chris Dodson for some good music and good times down at The Sandcastle. Dodson covers an array of genres ranging from Jazz and R&B to acoustic, improvisational music. This event is not meant to be a concert; 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.

TUESDAY, APR. 30

WHAT: Conrad Tao and Caleb Teicher: “Counterpoint”

WHERE: The Seabrook Island Club

WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Counterpoint is a collaboration between Conrad Tao and Caleb Teicher, combining their unique perspectives in music and dance. Through their partnership, they explore the harmony and tension between their artistic practices, aiming to expand their expressive capacities collectively. Their performance encompasses a diverse range of music, including pieces by Bach, Tatum, Schoenberg, and Gershwin, weaving together various traditions and styles. Building upon their previous acclaimed work, More Forever, Counterpoint promises a compelling fusion of sound and movement that pushes the boundaries of artistic expression.

SUNDAY, MAY. 5

WHAT: Piccolo Spoleto Preview

WHERE: Holy Spirit Catholic Church

WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Join us for a truly remarkable event where we'll showcase a curated selection of performances from the renowned Piccolo Spoleto Festival condensed into a captivating 90-minute spectacle. Tickets for this extraordinary evening will be made available to the public on March 22, with admission completely free of charge. Don't let this opportunity pass you by – immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of music, dance, and art that defines Piccolo Spoleto. Mark your calendars and join us for a night of unforgettable entertainment that will leave you inspired and uplifted.

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INTRODUCING: SINGLE IN THE HOLY CITY

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IN BLOOM: ALIGNING MIND, BODY, AND EMOTION WITH SPRING

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BUXTON BOOKS IS A CHARLESTON GEM

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"SCREENAGERS" FILM SERIES TACKLES MENTAL HEALTH IN SOUTH CAROLINA SCHOOLS

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SOUTH CAROLINA IS 2024’S 9TH MOST FEDERALLY DEPENDENT STATE –WALLETHUB STUDY

WalletHub assessed all 50 states based on three factors: return on federal taxes, federal funding as a portion of state revenue, and the percentage of federal jobs.

COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

WINS COASTAL ASSOCIATION ATHLETIC TOURNAMENT FOR SECOND STRAIGHT SEASON

Reyne Smith, known for 3-pointers, played key defense in College of Charleston's 82-79 overtime win against Stony Brook in the CAA championship.

FREE PERSONAL TRAINING EVENT FOR MEN 45+ SCHEDULED FOR APRIL 13TH

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Coaxing Redfish

BY GEOFF BENNETT For The Island Connection

Chilly days are quickly fading away with temperatures rising well into the 60s and sometimes pushing into the 70s. Warmer water temperatures will wake the fish up and get them feeding! Trout should be ready to go in mid-March. It’s time to break out your reels and rods and get ready for a great season.

Having spent the last few months laying low and avoiding dolphins, redfish are now focused on eating instead of simply surviving. Low tide will be the best time to target large schools of redfish, which can number in the hundreds. These fish are still skittish, so a quiet and subtle approach is quite important. On many days, it pays to stay in one spot when you find a school and wait for them to come to you instead of frightening them away.

As these reds are nervous, I’ll try to disturb them as little as possible by minimizing my casting. This is a great time to fish with bait on the bottom. I'll put a chunk of frozen mullet or blue crab on a size 3/0 circle hook and just let it rest until the redfish swim over it. Make sure the barb of your hook is fully in bait, and the point is cleanly exposed. Place your rod in the rod holder, and get ready for it to whip over once the circle hook sets itself.

As trout begin to feed, popping corks cast along grass banks and over oyster beds will be a good bet with mud minnows attached. I usually pair a 18”-24” fluorocarbon leader with a size 1 circle hook. While there is no shortage of options, I use oval-shaped corks, which are heavier and can cast farther. When using a popping cork, do your best to keep slack out of your line, and when that cork drops under, just reel without lifting the rod tip. You’ll find that the circle hook rarely misses as long as your line is tight.

See you on the water!

Since 2009, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing, providing light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call 843-324-3332, visit his website at charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.

We also offer FREE deconstruction services.

Cris Costello and his son, Colton, age 10.

528

Wooded View

2 BR | 3 BA | 1,272 SF

5

3004 SEABROOK VILLAGE DR.

Wooded View | 3 BR | 2.5 BA | 1,908 SF

Standing: Tom Peck, John Halter, Amanda Benepe, Ryan Straup, Patsy Zanetti, Ingrid Phillips, Mary Ann Lloyd, Stuart Spisak, Joy Dellapina, Michelle Almeyda-Wiedemuth

Pat Polychron, Chip Olsen, Stuart Rumph, Kathleen McCormack, Marc Chafe

1623

762

SF

2238

BLUFF

SF

3011

1138