Kiawah Conservancy’s Day of Connection celebrates new beginnings
BY KATIE JONJEVIC | For The Island Connection
On January 22, the Kiawah Conservancy invites the Sea Islands to come together for a full day of discovery, celebration and shared purpose during A Day of Connection: Celebrating Community and New Beginnings. From a landmark morning announcement to an evening community celebration, this special day highlights the power of connection between people, place and the natural landscapes that we love.
The day begins at Kiawah Island Town Hall at 10 a.m. with a special announcement by the Conservancy that will shape the future of conservation across our Sea Islands. This moment marks a new chapter, setting the tone for a day rooted in optimism, collaboration and forward-thinking stewardship.
As the afternoon unfolds, everyone is welcome to experience conservation in action through a series of guided treks and talks. On Seabrook Island, explore the Resilient Garden to learn practical insight into how native Lowcountry plants thrive in sandy, challenging soils. Participants will tour a back dune garden design that demonstrates how thoughtful landscaping can conserve water, reduce maintenance, attract beneficial insects and support local wildlife—all while creating a beautiful, resilient outdoor space.
Next, the Hidden Habitats Trek along Betsy Kerrison Parkway on Johns Island reveals the remarkable diversity of the Sea Islands’ natural environments. From maritime forests and saltmarshes to hummock islands, this guided walk highlights the importance of land preservation within the Kiawah River Watershed and showcases ongoing habitat restoration efforts that are helping these ecosystems flourish.
Later in the afternoon, stroll and discover native plants in the Naturally Kiawah Demonstration Garden at Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island. This walking tour features and provides inspiration and practical ideas for creating resilient, sustainable yards at home while deepening appreciation for the role native plants play in supporting our coastal ecosystems.
At Mingo Point, conservation comes to life along the water’s edge. Living Shoreline in Action invites participants to step into an active restoration site and see innovative techniques up close, including manufactured wire reefs (MWRs) that strengthen marsh habitats, reduce erosion and create vital space for wildlife to thrive. This shoreline project showcases the power of community-driven conservation and the lasting benefits of investing in natural resilience.
The day concludes with a lively celebration from 4-6 p.m. on the green at Freshfields Village. From coffee, cocoa and cookies to live music and free Conservancy swag, the evening is designed to bring people together in a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a chance to connect with neighbors, meet local conservation partners and celebrate the collective efforts that protect the places we all love.
A Day of Connection is free and open to the public. Some activities require registration. Visit kiawahconservancy.org for the event program link and to reserve your spot.
The Town of Kiawah Island officially takes on the role of an ARB, dismantling Kiawah Partners
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
December 2, 2025, marked history for the Architectural Review Board (ARB) on Kiawah Island. After about two years of deliberation at various meetings and a tremendous amount of work put into the logistics, the Kiawah Island Town Council finally approved the establishment of an ARB to oversee architectural design review for commercial, mixed-use, civic and multi-family residential developments within the town’s limits.
The five-member board will ultimately include property owners or residents and individuals with professional credentials in architecture, design, construction or related fields. The board would apply design standards addressing site orientation, massing and scale, building heights, fenestration, environmental stewardship and signage. Single-family residential properties (except those on Eugenia Avenue that are not subject to the new Kiawah Island ARB) subject to existing architectural review controls would be exempt and governed by their HOAs and the Kiawah Island Community Association (KICA). In other words, architectural review for single-family properties will remain within the province of KICA and the general covenants of the homeowner’s associations.
Although the Town’s establishment of an ARB is new, Kiawah Island has run development on the island under an ARB since the 1970s, first through the original owners of the island, then the Beach Company, and then Kiawah Partners, which currently governs the ARB on the island.
“The goal was always to affect the transition of architectural control from the developer to the homeowners’ association, at least with respect to single-family properties. A year and a half ago or maybe more, one of the Kiawah Partners came up to the stand and said they were committed to transferring architectural control. That hasn’t happened,” Kiawah Island Mayor Bradley Belt said. “This is an outgrowth of the lack of meaningful progress and the lack of intent to transition architectural review on commercial and multifamily properties.”
(Continued on page 4)
Conservation comes to life at the water’s edge in Kiawah.
Photo courtesy of Kiawah Conservancy.
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PUBLISHED BY Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837
Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS
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Seabrook Island adds and makes changes to advisory committees
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
With the end of another year and the start of a new one, there is always going to be a certain amount of change. That much is clear for the Town of Seabrook Island as they welcome two new Council members and say goodbye to two others who have left their mark as chairs for their corresponding advisory committees.
Dan Kortvelesy served two terms and was chairman of the Public Safety Committee. Gordon Weiss served one term and was chairman of the Environment and Wildlife Committee.
The two new Council members, Thomas Hund and Pat Faulkner, will join incumbents Ray Hamilton and Darryl May on Town Council.
On December 16, Town Council voted for more change to come in 2026 in regards to the advisory committees. Although the Environment and Wildlife Committee will remain along with the Public Safety Committee – albeit with a few changes – new committees were approved in a unanimous approval vote without discussion.
There will no longer be a Community Promotions and Engagement Committee. Instead, there will be a Community Facilities and Infrastructure Committee, which has the main purpose of assisting with planning and implementing town events.
This new committee will develop, recommend and provide oversight of an ongoing capital improvements plan for the town. They will also assist in making decisions about the town’s road and drainage infrastructure, road maintenance projects, pathway and green spaces, traffic operations, expansion of town buildings, surface water management, beach projects, telecommunications
Town of Kiawah Island
Environmental Committee
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Infrastructure and Public Works Committee
Thursday, Jan. 15, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Arts & Cultural Event Council
Thursday, Jan. 15, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
and architectural renderings. They will also coordinate with developers and help with the procurement process.
The new Discretionary Grants Committee will recommend guidelines and requirements for Town-funded grants. The committee will review the funding requests and provide recommendations to Town Council. They will monitor the effectiveness of the grants and recommend changes as needed to the program.
Advocacy and communication were added to the language for the Environment and Wildlife Committee. As stewards for the great outdoors on Seabrook Island, the committee is charged with advocating for the conservation and protection of the town’s beaches, marshes, tidelands, waterways, wetlands and other coastal resources. They are also responsible for advocating for local wildlife.
Town Council will rely on the Environment and Wildlife Committee for recommendations, and the committee will be the one to communicate with outside entities in regards to environment and wildlife. They will recommend and implement programs, as well as monitor legislation.
Instead of developing and maintaining a planning process, the Public Safety Committee will oversee the preparation of periodic updates of all elements of the Town’s comprehensive emergency plan and provide recommendations to Town Council on any amendments. The rest of the duties are the same, except one word was changed to reflect the committee would communicate with – instead of coordinate with – representatives from outside entities.
They are to make recommendations to Town Council on opportunities for enhanced coordination with outside entities, as well as review the performance and reliability of emergency services on Seabrook Island.
Town council members will serve on the committees along with other citizens. These changes took effect on January 1.
K iawah iSland Town h all 4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway Kiawah Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9166
CERT Meeting
& Tabletop Exercise
Tuesday, Jan. 20, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Resiliency Committee
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
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
Kiawah’s noise ordinance approved following discussions
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
Revisions on first reading to the current noise ordinance were passed unanimously by Kiawah Island Town Council on December 2.
The main discussion was the issue of two-cycle versus four-cycle gas-powered landscape equipment, specifically leaf blowers, brought up at several previous meetings in 2025.
Council Members Russell Berner and Lance Spencer argued that four-cycle motor chainsaws and blowers are not only less loud than their two-cycle counterparts, but also better for the environment in terms of pollution.
Council Member Luke Farrell commented on how he lives on the golf course and hears the two-cycle gas-powered blowers but that they are below the decibel level. “What are we trying to do here – eliminate two-cycle powered equipment or prevent loud noise?” he asked. “The environmental factor seems pretty important.”
Spencer argued that four-cycle gas-powered equipment is actually better overall. He suggested that the Town phase in, over six months, completely removing all two-cycle powered equipment and switching to four-cycle.
Roger Warren, president of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, said they may need more time than six months, particularly when it comes to golf course maintenance. Warren also asked that golf course maintenance begin at 6:30 a.m., not 7 a.m., which was a proposed change.
The Kiawah Island Community Association (KICA) could be given the same consideration for the landscaping start time. There was some backand-forth on whether they deserved the same consideration as golf course maintenance. A former board member commented that working on roads early in the morning is much easier than later in the morning or day.
Another deviation came up about wood chippers. Since taking down trees is not just a landscaping issue but a safety issue, Berner proposed
taking wood chippers out of the prohibition.
Warren warned that supporting data should be collected first on how prohibiting two-cycle gas-powered equipment could affect the town and how they would get landscaping work completed.
“It would help me understand it more than saying that you all as a group have decided you don’t want to do two-cycle engines,” he said.
Kiawah Island Mayor Bradley Belt responded that they researched other communities in the country where the transition took place – some over six months and some over a year.
In the end, changes to the noise ordinance on first reading were approved contingent to the following between first and second reading:
• The phase-out from two-cycle gas-powered landscape equipment to four-cycle gas-powered landscape equipment would take place over 12 months.
• Hours would be added to the ordinance specifically for the resort.
• There would be some carve-out for KICA’s landscaping hours.
• There will also be considerations for tree work and removal in terms of two- and four-cycle equipment.
ARB
Continued from page 1
Kiawah Island Planning Director John Taylor provided some historical background about the ordinance and said that the first reading of this ordinance was approved on Oct. 14.
He also stated that community concern about the town’s ARB focused on the timing of the effort in respect to ongoing discussions and conversations regarding the transition of the existing Kiawah Island ARB with KICA.
President of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort Roger Warren also expressed concerns about having to go through the ARB process twice under this new ordinance – once with KICA, as they approve all resort architecture, and now with the town. He added that it will not only be timely but also costly.
The other concern raised was about how long the transition has taken to give up control of the ARB by Kiawah Partners to KICA.
“That’s been up in the air for a couple of years, and it still could be up in the air for another two years,” Warren said.
Belt responded that the town can always adjust the ordinance if the transition does not occur in a reasonable amount of time.
“I’ll be happy to sit down when KICA wants to collaborate. Let’s figure out who is the best to review commercial and multifamily. I truly believe that it should reside with KICA for single-family. I’m not persuaded personally that they should be reviewing commercial, but I agree that we should figure out a way to decide one way or the other,” Belt said.
Warren added that the current ARB has done a great job. “We’ve always taken the perspective that if you look around at this place, which has established wonderful standards . . . [And] you look at who we are, where we are, and the standards by which things have been done, it’s hard to argue with the quality of what’s happened. And so I would say that as the commercial developer here, I don’t have any issue with staying with the current ARB,” Warren said.
As the conversation continued, confusion arose among members of the KICA board when they said that “all properties” should be under their ARB review, not just single-family homes. The KICA board members also raised concern over the amount of time they have been told it would take for Kiawah Partners to transition out of their ARB role, mainly because it was to take several years, at least, and in that amount of time, KICA would be expected to hire staff for the future ARB reviews.
All members of the Town Council agreed that the town needed to be involved in the ARB process in some way. Even though Town Council Member Russell Berner suggested they defer approval, the majority did not want to defer the decision to approve the ordinance, although they agreed that changes would likely be made in the future to the process.
“The town has a duty to do something in the absence of things getting done. And while everybody else is trying to figure out what they’re going to get together and talk through next, we’re on second reading. We could approve this today and then let that be the forcing function,” Town Council Member Lance Spencer said.
Mark Permar, a representative of Kiawah Partners, spoke up in their defense. “This was supposed to be phased over to KICA, not just turned over all at once,” he said. “The first phase is maintenance modifications to existing buildings, then substantial improvements and then new construction. There has always been an agreement that a sequenced or phased process made sense on behalf of the community association accepting something, as opposed to just turning it all over at once.”
By the end of the lengthy discussion, it was clarified that by June 30, 2026, total control of the ARB would be transferred from Kiawah Partners to KICA, and any necessary carve-outs would be made on behalf of the town around that time.
The ordinance was fully supported by all Council members and approved. That means that any applications for ARB approval that come in January and February would be subject to the town’s review.
Taylor added that the implementation of the ordinance would need to take place once they have the members of the ARB, who will be appointed in January.
At this time, the town will have ARB approval of commercial and multi-family properties, as well as a limited number of single-family properties. KICA would strictly work with single-family ARB approval.
New Jersey teenager plays Round of a Lifetime at Kiawah Ocean Course
BY DAN IGO | For The Island Connection
Alex Sekela had been waiting nearly two years to play his round at the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, and he wasn’t going to let an historic cold front get in the way. Judging by what he has dealt with in his life, golfing in 23 degree weather was nothing he couldn’t handle.
A high school senior from Cape May, New Jersey, Sekela was able to play on December 15 through the Round Of A Lifetime Foundation. ROAL is a nonprofit providing the opportunity for those suffering from congenital heart disease and their loved ones to play a round of golf at a world-class course with all expenses paid.
When Sekela was 3 years old, he was diagnosed with Vascular Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (VEDS), a rare genetic disorder that can cause severe bleeding and internal injuries. Being unable to play contact sports led him to find the game of golf early. He started at age 5 when he received his first set of golf clubs from Santa. He now plays for his high school golf team.
Sekela was nominated for a Round of a Lifetime by his health coach at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He was notified in March 2024 that he’d been awarded a trip.
“When I found out I was selected, I was shocked and incredibly grateful,” he said. “It felt unreal that something like that could happen to me. After everything I’ve been through, being chosen for an opportunity like this meant a lot.”
ROAL has sent recipients to courses around the world, including Pebble Beach, Pinehurst No. 2, TPC Sawgrass and Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland. For Sekela, Kiawah was an easy choice.
“I chose Kiawah because it’s such an iconic place, and the courses are known for being some of the most beautiful and challenging in the country,” he said. “Playing somewhere like Kiawah felt like a dream.”
The experience did come with some delays. Sekela and his family had to wait for a full sign-off from his doctor, which didn’t occur until 2025. And then when it was finally time to tee up, there was an arctic cold front which postponed his morning round until the afternoon. But he braved the brutal conditions and shot an 89. He also was able to sneak in a round at Cougar Point later in the week.
“The weather definitely made it tougher,” Sekela said. “I was afraid that I wouldn’t be able to play on the course. People said it hasn’t been that cold in South Carolina for seven years. When we teed off, it was 23 degrees, but honestly, I’ve been through much harder things than cold and wind. I reminded myself how lucky I was just to be out there playing.”
These trips also mean a lot to the loved ones of the recipients. For Sekela’s mom Heather, the experience was about more than a round of golf.
“Watching Alex take his practice swings and then begin the round at Ocean Course was overwhelming in the best possible way,” she said. “There were so many moments over the years when the future felt uncertain—when hospital rooms, surgeries and constant worry replaced things that should have been carefree. To stand there and watch him take his swings felt like a victory far bigger than golf. Seeing him do something he loves on such an incredible stage brought our family a sense of peace and gratitude hard to put into words.”
Courtesy of Round of a Lifetime
Paul Sekela, left, with his son Alex. Courtesy of Round of a Lifetime
Angel Oak Award requests nominations for 14th year
BY ALAN ARMSTRONG For The Island Connection
The Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club is soliciting nominations for the 14th Angel Oak Award. The annual award was first presented in 2012 and recognizes a person who performs volunteer services, which contribute significantly to the people and/or quality of life of Wadmalaw, Johns, Kiawah and/or Seabrook Islands.
The award is named after the historic live oak tree on Johns Island which clearly represents the people, culture and natural environment of the islands. The 2024 recipient was Kelly Carroll, who was recognized for her work with The Point, a local organization that supports Lowcountry groups focused on women in need.
The recipient need not live on the aforementioned islands, but the service noted for the award must have been performed on the islands. The recipient will be recognized at a banquet on May 20 and receive an honorarium of $5,000, which he/she can designate for assignment to a charitable organization serving the islands. The recipient will also receive a memento and have his/her name inscribed on the Angel Oak Trophy, which is permanently displayed on the islands.
The Exchange Club is seeking nominations from the public. The deadline for nominations is February 28. Nomination information and forms can be found on the Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club website at ks-exchangeclub.com. Please contact Alan Armstrong at alan9631@comcast. net or 410-274-7545 if you have any questions.
Seabrook Island Artist Guild presents Julie Snidle
BY ROD MORRIS For The Island Connection
The Seabrook Island Artist Guild invites you to a free artist demonstration by nationally recognized guest artist Julie Snidle on Monday, February 2 at 1:30 p.m. The demonstration will be followed by a limited-enrollment, two-day workshop on February 3-4 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. both days. All events take place at the Oyster Catcher Community Center.
Julie Snidle is a full-time professional artist based in Fairhope, Alabama with extensive experience in both classroom teaching and corporate training. Introduced to wax-based media in 2004, she has since made it her primary artistic focus.
Her abstract work has received numerous awards and is featured in private collections and public spaces nationwide. She is represented by Canary Gallery and Dauphin Island Art Gallery in Alabama and Kolman Reeb Gallery in Minnesota. Her teaching credits include Penland School of Craft, Bennington College’s North Country Studio Workshops and many other respected venues across the country.
Workshops are open to both Seabrook Island Artist Guild members and non-members.
Early registration is encouraged due to limited enrollment. To register for the workshop, please contact Tina Mayland at Tina@TinaMaylandArt.com.
Learn more about the artist and her work at juliesnidle.com.
Bishop Gadsden
Seafields by Bishop Gadsden
Seabrook Island Village announces 2026 board and spring programs
BY SUSAN COOMER AND ANNE R. BAVIER For The Island Connection
Seabrook Island Village announces 2026 board and spring programs by Susan Coomer and Anne R. Bavier For The Island Connection
Seabrook Island Village (SIV) Neighbors Helping Neighbors announced its 2026 board of directors, spring 2026 educational programs and spring fun fundraiser event. The board includes people from Seabrook Island and Kiawah River Estates, which are the service areas of our all-volunteer efforts to enhance the quality of life in our area.
Seabrook Island Village (SIV) Neighbors Helping Neighbors announced its 2026 board of directors, spring 2026 educational programs and spring fun fundraiser event. The board includes people from Seabrook Island and Kiawah River Estates, which are the servic e areas of our all-volunteer efforts to enhance the quality of life in our area.
The incoming board was welcomed by the current board at the conclusion of its December meeting. The 2026 board has both returning members and new additions to ensure the vitality and creativity of our efforts. We shall continue to benefit from the advice and guidance of two stars from the original SIV Board, who are launching the position of Emeritus (non-voting) member.
The incoming board was welcomed by the current board at the conclusion of its December meeting. The 2026 board has both returning members and new additions to ensure the vitality and creativity of our efforts. We shall continue to benefit from the advice and guidance of two stars from the original SIV Board, who are launching the position of Emeritus (non-voting) member.
The 2026 Board is:
The 2026 Board is:
Name Position
Anne Bavier President *
Betsy Curtin** Vice President*
Barbara Conbeer Secretary*
Jack Teitsma Treasurer*
John Holschuh Legal Advisor*
Marge Wildermann Chair, Education Programs
Gail Kahl Chair, Volunteer Services
Kathleen Buchman Chair, Member Services
Karen Petrucelli** Chair, Fundraising
Peggy Fox Chair, Outreach and Marketing
Karen Kadlec** KRE Representative
Debbie Jones Emeritus
Susan Coomer Emeritus
Patti Addison Assistant Treasurer
Debbie Ely Chair, Social Members * Executive Committee; **KRE Resident;
At the December meeting, we honored retiring board members John Chency (president), Lucy Walton (volunteer chair), Tom Pickney (legal advisor) and Debbie Jones (educational programs chair). Collectively, these retiring members’ contributions made a difference in our organizational processes, procedures, and the most critical achievement of our mission – to make life better here.
At the December meeting, we honored retiring board members John Chency (president), Lucy Walton (volunteer chair), Tom Pickney (legal advisor) and Debbie Jones (educational programs chair). Collectively, these retiring members’ contributions made a difference in our organizational processes, procedures, and the most critical achievement of our mission – to make life better here.
Back by popular demand Practical Tips for Safe Movement Part 3 is scheduled for January 30 at the Oyster Catcher Community Center. The program is from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a hands-on program of practicing with assistive devices, using ramps and stairs, and helping others with vehicle entry/exit.
Back by popular demand, Practical Tips for Safe Movement Part 3 is scheduled for January 30 at the Oyster Catcher Community Center. The program is from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a handson program of practicing with assistive devices, using ramps and stairs, and helping others with vehicle entry/exit.
We again welcome experts from Roper Home and Hospice Services, and the faculty and doctoral students from Charleston Southern University Department of Physical Therapy. New this year is content on understanding your changing body to make movement safe and identification of your own fall risk—with prevention tips galore.
As a nonprofit and all-volunteer group, we are the gold standard for FUN and Fundraising with our mahjong tournaments. Last fall, this event raised more than $6,000 to support our infrastructure costs. The next tournament is February 26. Slots will fill fast due to the popularity of this game. All will enjoy great food and door prizes!
• Registration Deadline: February 6, 2026
• Tournament date: February 26, 2026, 10 a.m. until about 3 p.m. Information and registration about all our volunteer opportunities, educational programs and mahjong events are available on our website, seabrookislandvillage.org. You also can leave a voice mail at 843-2127181, and a volunteer will return your call.
AROUND THE ISLANDS
ONGOING
WHAT: Charleston Restaurant Week
WHERE: Various
WHEN: Jan. 9 - Jan. 18
MORE INFO: The popular Charleston Restaurant Week offers patrons the opportunity to explore and enjoy cuisine from area chefs, as participating restaurants offer specially-selected lunch and dinner menus. Usually well over 50 restaurants from across the region participate in the event and several restaurants also offer brunch options. Visit restaurantweeksouthcarolina.com for more info.
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 of crafting two unique cocktails using ingredients sourced directly from the resort’s farm.
FRIDAY, JAN. 9
WHAT: Liquid Pleasure
WHERE: West Beach Conference Center
WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Get ready to boogie as the town celebrates the new year. Tickets are available for purchase online at: tickettailor.com/events/townofkiawahisland/1741004.
SATURDAY, JAN. 10
WHAT: Mex 1 Snowboard Rail Jam
WHERE: Firefly Distillery, 4201 Spruill Ave., North Charleston
WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Mex 1 Snowboard Rail Jam will return to Firefly Distillery, bringing an action-packed evening of snow, music, and high-energy competition. The annual event features top snowboarders from across the country performing under the lights, backed by live music from Strawberry Squad. Or-
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.
ganizers say this year’s event will feature more snow, more riders, and a massive new video screen to give spectators the best view of every trick. Get tickets on citypapertickets.com.
WHAT: PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour WHERE: North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Professional Bull Riders Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour is the top expansion series of the PBR. The PBR is NOT a rodeo format. It’s two hours of pyro, music, and the most intense bull riding action the world has to offer, filled with heartpounding, bone-crushing action, and a star-studded lineup of the world’s best riders and animal athletes.
SUNDAY, JAN. 11
WHAT: Second Sunday on King WHERE: King St., Charleston WHEN: Noon to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: King Street will be shut down to through traffic from Queen to Calhoun, roughly a half-mile. Strolling guests can enjoy music, shopping, dining, and more.
THURSDAY, JAN. 15
WHAT: CSO presents Music from Bridgerton: Regency Romance Reimagined WHERE: Seabrook Island Club, 3772 Seabrook Island Rd., Seabrook Island WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Step into the lavish world of Bridgerton as the Charleston Symphony Orchestra brings to life the music that has enchanted millions around the world. This immersive evening blends the grace and grandeur of the Regency era with a modern, playful twist—where powdered wigs meet pop brilliance, and the ballroom shimmers with the sound of today’s chart-toppers reimagined for strings. Experience the elegant thrill of contemporary hits like Ariana Grande’s “thank u, next,” Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams,” and Billie Eilish’s “bad guy,” all transformed into lush string arrangements that could have graced a royal ball. Woven seamlessly alongside these modern classics are timeless works by Vivaldi, Offenbach, and more—including the effervescent Four Seasons and the beloved Barcarolle—creating a program that bridges centuries of sound and emotion.
FRIDAY, JAN. 16
WHAT: 22nd Annual Hot Stove Banquet with Chipper Jones WHERE: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston RiverDogs have announced that Baseball Hall of Famer Chipper Jones will serve as the keynote speaker for the organization’s 22nd Annual Hot Stove Banquet, presented by the Marino Family. Tickets are available now at riverdogs. com.
SUNDAY, JAN. 18
WHAT: The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Talking Heads’ ‘Stop Making Sense’
WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Black Jacket Symphony brings the legendary concert film ‘Stop Making Sense’ to Charleston Hall
MONDAY, JAN 19
WHAT: MLK Day Parade WHERE: Downtown Charleston WHEN: 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: Free and open to the public, the parade invites community members to line the streets
and cheer on more than 150 participants, including marching bands, floats, dance groups, and community organizations. The parade will begin at Burke High School in downtown Charleston, proceeding to Marion Square, and turning east onto Calhoun Street. All parade participants must register in advance to take part.
WHAT: IAAM KING: An MLK Day Celebration WHERE: International African American Museum, 14 Wharfside St., Charleston WHEN: Noon to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: In partnership with the YWCA Greater Charleston, IAAM KING honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s moral leadership and global impact on movements for freedom, dignity, and human rights. Visitors are invited to enjoy complimentary admission, youth-centered activities, reflective spaces, and creative engagements that elevate Dr. King’s vision.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21
WHAT: The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Ray Chen WHERE: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: One of the most celebrated touring orchestras in the world, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), joined this season by acclaimed violinist Ray Chen, enriches lives through orchestral experiences that are uncompromising in their excellence and inclusive in their appeal, placing it at the forefront of music-making in the UK and beyond.
SATURDAY, JAN. 24
WHAT: The Royal Hounds WHERE: Turtle Point Golf Course, 1 Turtle Point Ln., Kiawah Island WHEN: 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Nashville headliners The Royal Hounds are a high energy roots rock n’ roll trio. Hon- ored as one of the house bands at the world-famous Robert’s Western World on Lower Broadway, they have been wowing and entertaining audiences across the globe for years with their unique approach to live music. Known for their on-stage antics and humor, The Royal Hounds offer a live show unlike anything on the scene right now.
SATURDAY, JAN. 31
WHAT: Outdoor Barre Workout at Andell Inn WHERE: Andell Inn, 300 Farm Lake View Rd., Kiawah Island
WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Join a fun outdoor barre workout for women of all ages. It’ll be a workout focused on strengthening, tightening and toning the full body while enjoying the ocean breeze and watching gators swim in the pond. Bring a mat and a set of light weights. Don’t worry if you don’t have anything; they’ll have extras.
SUNDAY, FEB. 8
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, MARCH 3
WHAT: Andy & Friends II - Chamber Trio 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!
A Global Artistic Journey: Meet Artist of the Month Valerie Korniewicz
BY ROD MORRIS | For The Island Connection
Valerie Korniewicz’s passions were ignited at age 15 when she spent a summer traveling through Europe with her art teacher and classmates. Experiencing great works of art in situ sparked a lifelong love of travel, visual art and foreign cultures—especially food and wine.
Korniewicz studied art at The College of St. Rose in Albany, New York, earning primary and secondary teaching certifications in art education, and later pursued a master’s degree at SUNY New Paltz with a focus on metalwork. She went on to teach studio art and art history for more than 30 years in New Fairfield, Connecticut, as well as Johns Island and Charleston. During her teaching career, she led student trips to Europe, South America and Asia, hoping to ignite in the next generation the same curiosity and passion that had shaped her own life.
After decades in education, the artist took a several-year hiatus to pursue her deep interest in food and wine, operating two restaurants: Homeward Bounty in New Jersey and Red Sky Grill on Seabrook Island. While living in Connecticut, she studied at The Silo Cooking School, renowned for hosting contemporary cookbook authors and chefs from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. She also continued her education through courses at The New School in New York City.
Korniewicz moved to Seabrook Island in 1995. Now retired, she has returned her focus to her own creative work by exploring fused glass, felting and resin. She also hopes to revive her early passion for metalwork and jewelry, her original focus in college, once she is able to establish a dedicated studio.
View the fruits of Korniewicz’s artistic journey at the Seabrook Island Lake House the whole month of January. Learn more about the Seabrook Island Artist Guild at seabrookislandartistguild.com.
Photo of the artist provided by Seabrook Island Artist Guild.
The College of Charleston’s Department of Music will begin the spring season with a captivating evening of music as part of its 2nd Monday Series. The concert will showcase voice faculty, including sopranos Saundra DeAthos, Amanda Castellone and Rebecca Krynski Cox; tenor Harold Meers; and baritone David Templeton with pianist Lorna Barker. The program will highlight a refined blend of contemporary and traditional repertoire, offering a selection of art songs, operatic works and modern compositions which reflect the diverse musical strengths of each performer.
The performance is on Monday, Jan. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Simons Center Recital Hall at 54 Saint Philip Street. Tickets range from $9 to $26, including discounts for CofC students and employees. Tickets may be purchased online through the George Street Box Office, at the door, by emailing gsbo@cofc.edu or by calling 843953-4726.
Information and ticket links are available at charleston.edu/music/ concerts/2nd-monday.
