First Responders on Seabrook Island recognized for saving a life
By Theresa Stratford
The mayor of Seabrook Island and Town Council members always knew they had great emergency services with the St. Johns Fire District and the island’s highly responsive beach patrol team with Barrier Island Ocean Rescue. Still, sometimes a serious incident occurs that gives everyone that much-needed reminder of just how fortunate the island is to have these professionals.
They got that reminder when members of the fire district and beach patrol responded to an incident on June 11. What started as a normal day turned traumatic when a call for chest pain came in.
Dispatched to the scene were members of the St. Johns Fire District and the Barrier Island Ocean Rescue team. The first responders found the victim’s wife performing CPR.
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Local Officials support Seabrook Island Photography Club
By Theresa Stratford
Capturing the beauty of Seabrook Island through photography is a worthwhile hobby and pastime for many residents. It isn’t hard to find a photographic view or a picturesque scene. From nature to wildlife, there is an award-winning photograph waiting to happen every day.
Luckily, Seabrook Island Town Council appreciates the beauty of where they live and helps to preserve it through photographs. That’s why when the Seabrook Island Photography Club applied for a $1,200 grant, it was unanimously approved.
Bill Breunsbach, treasurer for the club, presented at the meeting. He said that they are a group of 60 photographers who do monthly presentations and other educational events. They are the photographers for island-wide events like July 4th celebrations, local races, and the Memorial Day event, among others.
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Remembering Lucky Dog Publishing graphic designer Swan Richards
By Lynn Pierotti
Swan Richards, longtime graphic designer at Lucky Dog Publishing, died Tuesday night, July 15, after a short battle with cancer.
Richards joined The Island Eye News 17 years ago as the company’s first intern from Trident Technical College after deciding to change careers later in life — and she never left. She became the company’s longest-tenured employee and loved the work we did.
Richards moved to Costa Rica, and later to Panama a few years ago, to pursue her dream of starting a dog sanctuary and providing spaying and neutering services for the street dogs she encountered. She continued to design The Island Eye News and The Island Connection remotely, often dashing from her home to coffee shops and internet cafés to stay connected.
She regularly donated her services to causes she believed in. She never charged charities, churches, environmental groups or animal advocates for building ads or designing logos. She
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Photo Courtesy of Seabrook Island.
Left to right: Engineer Baxley Crosby, Firefighter Tim Holt, Firefighter Nick Olson, Mayor Kleinman, Dwight Philips and family, Beach Patrol Charles Cheves, Paramedic Specialist Brittany Umphress, and Captain Chris Mitchell.
Photo by Gina Sanders. Courtesy of SIPC.
Left to right: Lynn Pierotti; Brooklyn; Swan Richards; and Ellie Gray Smith, James Island Charter High School News Editor. 2011.
PUBLISHERS OF:
The Island Eye News The Island Connection SiP Magazine
In Memory of Swan Richards
Christian Senger Assistant Publisher
Denise K. James Editor denisekjames@gmail.com
Stacey Nichols Graphic Designer Advertising advertising@mylonews.com
Lynn Pierotti Consultant lynn@luckydognews.com
Contributors
Theresa Stratford
Lynn Pierotti
Jennifer Wilson
Jeff Davis
Future submission deadline: July 31 for the August 8 issue
PUBLISHED BY
Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS
For more information, check out LuckyDogNews.com
Want to share this paper with a friend? Digital flipbooks of each print issue can be found at LuckyDogNews.com.
Op-eds and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lucky Dog Publishing or its staff.
First Responder
Continued from page 1
The crew confirmed that Dwight Phillips of Seabrook Island was in cardiac arrest. The team began high-performance CPR, and additional units soon arrived. An automated external defibrillator was placed on the patient.
St. Johns Fire District’s Chief Ryan Kunitzer said that an airway was established. The crew then continued with two more cycles of compressions. A shock was administered, and Phillips soon gained consciousness. He was then transported to the hospital.
The crew who worked on Phillips, as well as Phillips himself, attended the June 23 Seabrook Island Town Council meeting. After recognizing the specific team members who assisted in saving Phillips, they took a group shot. Those recognized for their lifesaving efforts were: Barrier Island Ocean Rescue Member Charles Cheves, Paramedic Specialist Brittany Umphress, Capt. Chris Mitchell, Engineer Baxley Crosby, Firefighter Tim Holt, and Firefighter Nicholas Olson.
Phillips, who got emotional at the meeting, said, “[My] family . . . were just in town, and we were able to celebrate both Father’s Day and my birthday this past Friday. I was with all my children and grandchildren. I’m just very grateful. Thank you.”
Seabrook Island Mayor Bruce Kleinman said, “This is a reminder of how lucky we are to have these professionals here in case something happens. We all know how great the St. Johns Fire District is. We have known for a long time how great they are. The beach patrol guys are such professionals. They are highly trained, and the result of having them all is what we saw here today.”
Town Council Member Dan Kortve-
Town of Kiawah Island
Ways & Means Committee
Tuesday, August 5, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, August 5, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, August 6, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Infrastructure and Public Works Committee
Thursday, August 7, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Arts & Cultural Event Council
Thursday, August 7, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
lesy, who is also chair of the public safety committee, added, “Chief Ryan has addressed our public safety committee several times over the years. They are always looking to improve their operations. They aim to add a certified paramedic to every call and truck, enabling them to do even more. They are top-notch as it is, but the fact that they are looking to do even more is impressive. I thank them.”
Town of Seabrook
Planning Commission
Wednesday, August 13, 1:30 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Environment & Wildlife Committee
Thursday, August 14, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, August 19, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Utility Commission
Wednesday, August 20, 8:30 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
SATAX Advisory Committee
Friday, August 22, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
K iawah iSland Town h all 4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway Kiawah Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9166
SeabrooK iSland Town h all 2001 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9121 lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org
JohnS iSland c ouncil Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, S.C. 29455 Chairman
Premier art event scheduled for April 2026 by the Seabrook Island Artist Guild
By Theresa Stratford
Seabrook Island has a way of inspiring creativity. Whether it’s through painting, drawing, etching, wood carving or any other medium, the environment will provide the muse.
That’s why the Seabrook Island Artist Guild has such a large and popular following. Now in its 22nd year with about 110 members, this group provides the much-needed creative outlet that the residents of Seabrook search for. While just living on Seabrook has a way of encouraging even the most stressed individuals to forget about their worries, it’s the artistic side that the island inspires that can truly take one’s troubles away.
Luckily, supporting the arts has always been a top priority for town officials. In the June 23 Seabrook Island Town Council meeting, every member unanimously voted to support the Seabrook Island Artist Guild and their future endeavors.
One of those future endeavors is a premier event they are planning for April 2026. In the meantime, they applied for a grant with the Town of Seabrook Island for $1,100 for the planning of the event. Specifically, the Guild wants to use some of the money to purchase awards to present at the event, as well as reserve food and beverage options for a reception during the event.
best. Artworks will be presented anonymously to the public for fairness. The third week of April 2026, a reception will be held, and three custom trophies will be presented to the three highest-voted artworks and artists,” Younginer explained.
He added, “This event will bring the community together through the beauty of art.”
The Seabrook Island Artist Guild’s fine art artists and fine craft artisans work in many different media, such as watercolor, clay, oil, pastels, fiber, mixed media, pen and ink, alcohol inks, etching, wood and many others.
Seabrook Island Artist Guild’s President Michael Younginer explained that the event would be called Treasures of Seabrook Island.
“Artists of the Guild are to produce a unique piece of artwork in one of the mediums that we support based on some part of, or an inspirational place, on Seabrook Island. These will be displayed at the Lake House in April 2026 for two weeks; all residents, guests, visitors, and employees 10 years of age and older are invited to vote for three of the artworks they like
The purpose of the Seabrook Island Artist Guild is to stimulate the creativity of the membership by providing art enrichment opportunities for the members. For example, supporting the artists with demonstrations and workshops presented by locally recognized artists and internationally renowned artists.
The Guild supports its artists in exhibiting their artworks for viewing or for sale by hosting several art shows throughout the year. It also contributes to the local community by being involved with Johns Island local schools, like St. John’s High School and Haut Gap Middle School, supporting them through outreach and fundraisers for their art department programs.
Monthly Guild meetings and demos are usually held on the first Monday of each month. The first Tuesday afternoon of each month is an Artist of the Month Reception, highlighting artists whose artworks are displayed for one month in the Lake House Gallery Hallway.
The annual membership fee is $35; members can exhibit, sell and participate in any workshop for a reduced fee.
For more information or questions about the artistic mediums accepted in the April 2026 event, visit seabrookislandartistguild.com.
Kiawah Conservancy celebrates 80th property preserved
By Jennifer Wilson
The Kiawah Conservancy is excited to share a major milestone: officially preserving its 80th property. This meaningful achievement brings our total conserved land to nearly 3,870 acres across the treasured Sea Islands.
The newest addition, located at 269 Sea Marsh Drive on Kiawah Island, is a 0.38-acre undeveloped lot nestled within a rich maritime forest dominated by sabal palmettos. Situated near other protected properties, including 523 Rud dy Turnstone, this parcel enhances an expanding wildlife corridor and provides essential habitat for a diverse range of native species.
This property donation was made in response to a letter we sent to undeveloped property owners. The donors’ thoughtful action is a power ful reminder of the lasting impact one decision can have on the future of our Sea Islands.
Are you a property owner considering conservation? Whether you’re ready to make a property donation or simply exploring your options, our land preservation specialist, Collie Farah, is here to help. Collie will work with you to find a conservation approach that aligns with your goals and creates a legacy of protection for generations to come.
Photo by Adam Wolf.
Town of Kiawah Island Bites & Brews returns for August
The Town is hosting its very first summer food truck festival series at Town Hall: TOKI Bites & Brews. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on one Friday of each month from April to August, the Town Hall’s green space will be transformed into a lively community gathering spot, showcasing a variety of fantastic vendors and offering a fun and food-focused experience.
What to Know Before You Go
• There is limited seating on site. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn/camping chairs and/or picnic blankets.
• These events will be rain or shine, except in the event of severe weather, in which the Town will issue a notice cancelling the event within 24 hours of the scheduled date via the Town website, Town e-Newsletter and Town social media pages.
Upcoming Dates and Scheduled Vendors
15,
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Food & Dessert Vendors: Smash City Burgers, Foxes Fried, Area 51 Foods, Mac Daddy, Lowcountry Caviar, Kee’s Kitchen, Krystyna’s Polish Food, and King of Pops
Beverages by: Spritz Cart
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Entertainment: The Bluestone Ramblers
Brookgreen Gardens Invites Guests to Leave a Lasting Mark on New Purdy Center with Custom Pavers
Brookgreen Gardens, a beloved national historic landmark on the Lowcountry coast, will soon celebrate the opening of its new Welcome Center and Conservatory, The Purdy Center – the capstone of Brookgreen’s broader initiative, the Campaign for the Next Generation. To honor this milestone, Brookgreen is now offering supporters the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the project with a personalized paver that will be displayed at the entrance.
“We’re thrilled to share this next chapter in Brookgreen’s mission to preserve the region’s flora, fauna and culture with the visitors and supporters who helped make it possible,” said Page Kiniry, president and CEO of Brookgreen Gardens. “Personalizing a paver offers a meaningful way for the community to help shape Brookgreen’s future and leave a tribute that will greet visitors for generations to come.”
4-by-8-inch pavers are now available through Aug. 31 for a donation of $2,025 each. Each paver will be engraved with the supporter’s name or company name, and purchasers will receive an invitation to an exclusive campaign celebration and preview of The Purdy Center. Proceeds from the sale will directly support the initiatives of the Campaign for the Next Generation.
The Campaign for the Next Generation, funded entirely by gifts and grants, aims to expand Brookgreen’s art, nature, and history programs for future generations. The campaign focuses on four key projects: the new Contemporary Conservatory and Welcome Center, new art facilities, expanded Lowcountry history exhibits, and a new exhibit in the Lowcountry Zoo. The Purdy Center is the largest of these capital projects and will serve as a new Welcome Center and house expanded event and educational spaces, including the new Contemporary Conservatory. The Conservatory Great Hall, the project’s centerpiece, will feature skylights and open-air access to an expansive courtyard. With ever-changing botanical displays, a floor-to-ceiling green wall of tropical plants, and an array of hanging baskets and planters, the space will seamlessly extend the natural beauty of the Gardens.
The Purdy Center is named for Verl and Sandra Purdy of Charlotte, North Carolina, and the Peninsula at Inlet Point South at Litchfield, South Carolina, in honor of their leadership support of the Campaign and love of the Gardens as honorary trustees.
For more information, visit brookgreen.org/purdy-center-pavers.
From tranquil lagoon vistas to panoramic coastal scenes, these impeccably maintained homes o er a range of prices designed to t a variety of buyers. Whether you’re seeking a full-time residence or a re ned retreat, each home is move-in ready and waiting for the discerning buyer who appreciates quality, location, and timeless appeal. Now is the perfect time to claim your place in this extraordinary setting. Which view will you wake up to?
Photography Club
Continued from page 1
The grant application describes the club as a group of people with a broad range of photographic skills, learning together to improve those skills and to encourage and promote the photographic arts with other residents.
The grant from the Town of Seabrook Island will help the club pay for certain expenses. For example, out of the $1,200, the club will use $290 for website hosting and video platform annual fees.
The grant request notes, “Our website provides educational materials, resources for photographers, videos of meeting speakers and individual member galleries where they can share their work with town residents. The hosting and video platforms are an integral part of our website operations.”
They will use $170 for a Zoom subscription annual fee. They will use $90 for a communications and presentation software annual fee. The club will use $300 for a Pixieset Pro, and $350 for a new laptop computer and carrying case.
The grant request also notes, “We are now using Zoom to record our presentations and then post on our video platform. Zoom is also being used for some of our monthly speakers to remotely deliver the presentations.”
The Pixieset Pro software program gives the club a stand-alone photographic platform that allows a simple gallery system for photographers to host images, which can be viewed securely. Pixieset has been effective for the delivery of images taken by multiple community photographers during various Seabrook Island community events.
“We have about 40,000 photographs available to the public through the platform,” Breunsbach said.
The club’s computer would be purchased to provide a stable platform compatible with SIPOA’s and the club-owned audio/visual equipment. The grant notes, “This will ensure quality delivery of speaker presentations and high-resolution photography as presented by speakers and club members. The computer will also provide Zoom recording of presentations for uploading to the website.”
“We’ve had a lot of technical problems hooking up computers to the SIPOA equipment and giving our presentations, so we want to get a dedicated computer to make those presentations error-free,” said Breunsbach.
Seabrook Island Town Council approved the $1,200 grant for the Photography Club unanimously.
The website for the Seabrook Island Photography Club (seabrookphotographyclub.com) notes that membership is $35 per person and $60 per couple for a year. The meetings are held every third Thursday of the month, except in the summer. Presentations are held during the meetings, and refreshments are offered. The meetings are usually held at the Live Oak Hall in the Lake House.
Check the website for workshops, meeting dates, field trips and other events.
Swan Richards
Continued from page 1
also mentored students at James Island Charter High School when they started their own newspaper, spending long hours teaching them how to design and operate a small publication — and often doing the layout work herself until they were up to speed.
Richards will be missed by her friends in the Charleston area and by all those she touched. I will miss her candidness when necessary and her unwavering support during challenging times. I will miss our weekly phone calls, when I’d hear dogs barking and monkeys screaming in the background, knowing she was in her happiest place.
Lucky Dog Publishing will make our next donation to the Charleston Animal Society in her name.
Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach in Urgent Need of Hygiene Items for Neighbors in Need
Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach is currently in urgent need of hygiene items at both of its locations on Johns Island and downtown Charleston (Neighborhood House).
These basic items are essential for the dignity, health, and well-being of the individuals and families the organization serves every day.
Items in need include:
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Bar soap or body wash
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Feminine hygiene products
• Hand sanitizer
• Razors and shaving cream
• Hairbrushes and combs
These items may seem small, but they make a huge difference in the lives of neighbors who are struggling to meet their basic needs.
If you, your organization, or your neighborhood group is interested in hosting a hygiene drive or donating supplies, contact Marnie Bonn at marnie.bonn@olmoutreach.org or call 843-805-8064 x115. Donations can be dropped off at either of their locations:
• Johns Island Campus: 1684 Brownswood Road
• Neighborhood House: 77 America Street, Downtown Charleston
Updated beach rules for Kiawah implemented
The Town Council adopted an updated Beach Management Ordinance on June 3. The new ordinance promotes the safe and responsible recreational use of the Town’s beaches, marine resources and environs.
What this means:
• The Town’s jurisdiction is now clearly defined.
• The current Local Comprehensive Beach Management Plan is now adopted.
• Beach, Dune(s), and Beach and Dune System are defined to ensure protection of the primary dune in all cases.
• All structures within the Beach and Dune System now require a permit from the Town, and this includes Beach Walkovers.
• The beach speed limit has been reduced from 20 mph to 15 mph.
• Holes on the beach are now limited to 12 inches in depth and must be filled in.
• Sea turtles, marine mammals, seabirds, and shorebirds are protected from harm and harassment.
• Critical Habitat areas are clearly defined.
• Suitable Nesting Habitat can be designated by the mayor based on recommendations from the Town’s Environmental Department. If Suitable Nesting Habitat is defined, dogs must be on leash seaward of these areas during the nesting season.
• Special Management Zones (SMZ) can now be established by the mayor to protect vulnerable sections of the beachfront. If an SMZ is designated, Beach Walkovers in these areas are subject to two additional regulations: (1) Community Walkovers terminating more than 20 feet landward of the beach must be extended over the Primary Dune using the average height of the Primary Dune 30 feet on either side of the Walkover. (2) Any Walkover that cuts through the Primary Dune must be raised above the Primary Dune using the average height of the Primary Dune 30 feet on either side of the Walkover.
• No Beach Walkovers can be constructed during Sea Turtle nesting season (May 1 - October 31). Minor maintenance can be performed as long as no excavation or movement of sand occurs on the Active Beach. The Town may grant an extension or modification to the date and time frames to owners of Beach Walkovers in the event of extenuating circumstances.
• Boats and other watercraft can now be launched or retrieved along the Stono River beach, including Sandy Point.
AROUND THE ISLANDS
ONGOING
WHAT: Fleece+ Friday
WHERE: Beachwalker Center
WHEN: Every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon
MORE INFO: Join the Kiawah Cares Made with Love program to create handmade crafts for children, seniors, Veterans, teachers, new moms and neighbors in need. All skill levels are welcome to make no-sew fleece blankets, craft greeting cards, sew fabric totes, knit/crochet scarves and more.
WHAT: Spirit Tasting
WHERE: Kiawah Spirits, 615 Freshfields Dr. WHEN: Every Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Stop by Kiawah Spirits for tastings of select spirits. Guests must be 21 years old to participate. While supplies last.
WHAT: Music on the Green
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: Every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Village Green will be alive with song and dance from various local artists every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets, purchase snacks and drinks from surrounding businesses, and come together to enjoy a lively Lowcountry evening outdoors.
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: Farmers Market
WHERE: Freshfields Village
WHEN: Mondays in July and August from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Pick from the freshest organic produce, local food products, and Lowcountry crafts all summer long.
WHAT: Island Night
WHERE: The Sandcastle, 1 Shipwatch Rd.
WHEN: Every Wednesday in July from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Enjoy live music and Crystal Coast’s famous crab cakes every week.
WHAT: Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet: The Immersive Experiences
WHERE: Festival Hall, 56 Beaufain St., Charleston WHEN: July 11 - Aug. 31
MORE INFO: A new immersive show combines the widely celebrated Beyond Van Gogh exhibit with the added Beyond Monet exhibit, offering audiences the unique opportunity to experience the masterpieces of both Vincent Van Gogh and Claude Monet. Tickets starting at $29.50 with a limited number of VIP tickets available. For tickets and schedules, visit beyondexhibitions.com.
SATURDAY, JULY 26
WHAT: Youth Triathlon
WHERE: James Island County Park
WHEN: 7:15 a.m.
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.
MORE INFO: Open to ages 7-15, the Youth Triathlon is an especially great opportunity for children to learn the basics of a triathlon in a well-monitored and safe environment. The course is fully contained inside the park and the open-water swim will be monitored by Charleston County Parks lifeguards. This event is the only one in the area to offer an open-water swim for children. Registration is $55 per person online. Registration ends Wednesday, July 23. There will be no on-site registration. Visit CharlestonCountyParks.com to register.
WHAT: Outdoor Barre Workout at Andell Inn WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: An outdoor barre workout at the Andell Inn Women of all ages are welcome. It’ll be a workout focused on strengthening, tightening and toning the full body while enjoying the ocean breeze. Bring a mat and a set of light weights (13lbs). Don’t worry if you don’t have anything; they will have extras.
WHAT: Charleston Photography Expo 2025 WHERE: The Rickhouse, 1734 Signal Point Rd., James Island WHEN: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Get styled by hair and makeup artists, then snag a mini session with an attending photographer, or get scouted by attending agencies during an open model call. Come network with local designers, hairstylists, makeup artists, talent agents, magazine publishers, event coordinators, and producers and find the photographer for your next project.
SUNDAY, JULY 27
WHAT: Mumford & Sons with special guest Gregory Alan Isakov
WHERE: Credit One Stadium, Daniel Island WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: English folk rockers Mumford & Sons will be play Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island. They’ll be joined by special guest Gregory Alan Isakov.
MONDAY, JULY 28
WHAT: Summer Oyster Roast WHERE: Mingo Point, 876 Kiawah Island Pkwy., Johns Island WHEN: 4 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
MORE INFO: Guests of all ages enjoy feasting on fresh oysters roasted over an open fire, along with other BBQ specialties such as ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and Lowcountry boil with all the Southern side dishes and desserts to make this a true culinary experience. Guests will also enjoy family fun like live music and other activities
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1
WHAT: Kiawah Arts 25-26 Season Kickoff WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
MORE INFO: Get ready to kick off the 25-26 season of Kiawah Arts with a bang as The Will Thompson Band takes the stage!
WHAT: Reggae Nights Concert
WHERE: James Island County Park
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series at James Island County Park features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude in a beautiful outdoor setting. Gates open for the event at 7:30 p.m. and music begins at 8 p.m. Event gates will close to incoming traffic at 10:30 p.m. and music will end at 11 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring
blankets or chairs for seating in the park meadow. SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 & SUNDAY, AUGUST 3
WHAT: Sales Tax Free Weekend
WHERE: Various
WHEN: All Day
MORE INFO: This year’s South Carolina Sales Tax Free Weekend will run from Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3. During the annual Sales Tax Holiday, a variety of purchases are exempt from the state’s 6% sales tax and any applicable local taxes. Tax-free items range from clothing, accessories, and shoes to school supplies, backpacks, and computers. As long as an item is eligible, it is tax-free whether purchased in-store or online.
MONDAY, AUGUST 4
WHAT: Summer Oyster Roast
WHERE: Mingo Point, 876 Kiawah Island Pkwy., Johns Island
WHEN: 4 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
MORE INFO: Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s longest-running event is a treasured family favorite and a genuine Lowcountry tradition. Guests of all ages enjoy feasting on fresh oysters roasted over an open fire, along with other BBQ specialties such as ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and Lowcountry Boil with all the Southern side dishes and desserts. Guests will also enjoy family fun like live music and other activities. Each Mingo Point date includes two seatings for guests to choose from when purchasing tickets.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8 & SATURDAY, AUGUST 9
WHAT: Charleston Friends of the Library’s Summer Book Sale
WHERE: Johns Island Regional Library, 3531 Maybank Highway, Johns Island WHEN: Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Shoppers can browse through hundreds of gently used books of every genre - history, biographies, mystery, gardening, cookbooks, fiction, sc-fi, South Carolina, children’s, and more. The variety of books available will have prices starting at $1 for paperbacks and $4 for hardback books.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14
WHAT: Jazz Night
WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Jazz Night is held every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Porch Bar of the Andell Inn. Guests of the Andell Inn and others can enjoy live music performances from local Charleston groups in a cozy atmosphere.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15
WHAT: TOKI Bites & Brews Food Truck Fest WHERE: Kiawah Island Town Hall WHEN: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MORE INFO: Taking place at Town Hall (4475 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy.), this food truck rodeo will transform the Town Hall green space into a lively gathering spot one Friday each month from April through August.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
WHAT: Cars & Coffee
WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: The monthly Cars & Coffee event happens on the third Saturday of every month from 9 to 11 a.m., showcasing unique cars and offering the opportunity to purchase coffee from Java Java.
SIPC captures record-breaking 4th of July with help from TOSI Grant
By Jeff Davis
Seabrook Island’s beloved Fourth of July Weekend celebration drew record crowds this year, marking the busiest event in its long-standing history of family fun and community spirit.
Highlights included the always popular 5K Fun Run, the Annual Super Soaker Parade and the spectacular Fireworks Party, each drawing enthusiastic participation from residents and visitors alike. The events were not only a showcase of patriotic pride but also a testament to Seabrook’s close-knit community.
Capturing the action, members of the Seabrook Island Photography Club (SIPC) volunteered their time and talents to photograph all the weekend events. Thanks to support from a Town of Seabrook Island (TOSI) Community Promotion Grant, SIPC has made these memories easily accessible to the public via its subscription to the professional image sharing platform Pixieset.
Over 1,000 high-quality full resolution photos have been uploaded and are available for free viewing or download at the QR code. The images are organized into three separate galleries— Fireworks Party, Parade, and Fun Run—for easy navigation using the menu bar in the top left corner of the site.
While an email address is required to access the galleries, SIPC assures the community that no personal information will be sold or misused. All images are for non-commercial use only, with photographers retaining full ownership rights.
SIPC extends heartfelt thanks to TOSI for its continued support through the Community Promotion Grant Program and encourages all residents to enjoy the stunning visual recap of Seabrook Island’s most memorable Fourth of July yet.
Photo by Gina Sanders. Courtesy of SIPC.
