National Beach Safety Week Proclaimed for Seabrook
BY THERESA STRATFORD
For The Island Connection
There’s no question that the beauty of Seabrook Island lies in its expansive beachfront. There’s the clear white sand dotted with unique and colorful shells; the various shorebirds that have chosen the island as their home or for a quick feeding frenzy; and just the tranquil feeling of being away from it all while you sit on the shore, hearing the waves crash one after the other.
It’s safe to say that life at the beach is truly even sweeter on Seabrook Island.
However, with all that beauty comes the dangers that the ocean can bring. Seabrook Island beachgoers must remain vigilant of rip tides, heavy currents and rough seas.
The Town of Seabrook Island takes beach safety seriously and recently proclaimed the week of May 19 to 26 as National Beach Safety Week for the Town. The proclamation was presented to Robert Edgerton of Barrier Island Ocean Rescue, which provides beach patrol and code enforcement services to the Town, on May 27 at the regular Town Council Meeting.
The proclamation noted Seabrook’s recreational resource to the public and noted that the dangers of rip currents, in particular, can be managed by proper education
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Without CitizenServe, ShortTerm Rental Applications are Arduous
BY THERESA STRATFORD
For The Island Connection
The Town of Seabrook Island’s staff is experiencing a slowdown with processing shortterm rental applications due to noncompliance with the Town’s new software, CitizenServe. This program is an all-inclusive portal for short-term rental applications, making it easier for users to submit their applications, check the status and renew all in one place.
It rolled out at the end of March but unfortunately didn’t take off as Town staff had hoped.
At the May 27 Seabrook Island Town Council meeting, Town Administrator Joe Cronin announced that 88% of the short-term rental applications were written submissions or by email.
He added that, as of the deadline for submission, which was April 30, they had been slogging through the written and emailed applications that were turned in and inputting them manually into CitizenServe. Out of the 575 submitted, they had processed about 150 as of May 27. He said that about 20 have been classified as new short-term rental permits. There have been 472 inside the map’s overlay and 103 outside the overlay.
The Town of Seabrook Island
(continued on page 6)
Beyond Our Gates Hosts Event to Raise Awareness
BY THERESA STRATFORD
For The Island Connection
riving through the gates onto Kiawah and Seabrook Islands can feel like entering a different world compared to the crowds of nearby Johns Island, James Island and Charleston. In addition, a stark contrast exists between the economic demographics for those living on the islands compared to some of the people living just outside the gates.
For Brian and Karen McDonagh, turning a blind eye to the poverty they saw in the communities they drove by on their way to their home to Kiawah Island was no longer an option. They wanted to do something to help their neighbors.
In late 2022, they established the Beyond Our Gates Foundation of Kiawah & Seabrook as a public 501(c)(3) grant-making community foundation. In the fall 2023, they awarded an inaugural series of $300,000 in grants to 16 reputable nonprofits, serving the critical needs in the adjacent low-income communities. The second series of grants, totaling just over $500,000, was awarded in fall 2024 to 25 incredible service organizations doing the essential work in the struggling neighborhoods not far from where they call home.
“Over the past several years, in particular, the inherent dichotomy that exists between the beauty and wealth of Kiawah and Seabrook and the increasingly daunting circumstances faced by thousands of less fortunate people who live just a few miles beyond our gates has become impossible to ignore,” Brian said. “While some in our community have been doing their part to help in various limited ways, we felt that there was an urgent need to
marshal the institutions and homeowners on Kiawah and Seabrook in a more dramatic fashion than has ever been done before.”
The Island Connection asked some questions about the organization and the event they are holding on June 25 for the residents of Kiawah and Seabrook Island.
When did you and your wife first come to Kiawah? What year? Where are you from originally? What did you do in your professional lives before coming here?
“Karen and I first started coming to Kiawah in 1997, and we bought a home here in 2005. We live in Charlotte and spend as much time on Kiawah as possible. We have three grown sons and three
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Beyond Our Gates founder Brian McDonagh (pictured left in both pictures) presents nonprofits Turn90 and Fields to Families with checks.
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Beach Safety
(continued from page 1)
and public awareness. It also recognized the week as the commencement of summer activities on the beach and the start of the busy season on the island.
The proclamation also warned that swimmers should not go out alone and should never mix swimming with alcohol use. It mentioned that life jackets save lives and warned beachgoers to adhere to the signs and flags on the beach. Of course, the proclamation also mentioned that sunblock should be worn during the day on the beach.
“I urge all beachgoers to enjoy themselves on the beach this season but to take the appropriate measures to protect themselves and their children,” Mayor of Seabrook Island Bruce Kleinman read.
Dave Kortvelesy, Town Council Member and Chair of the Public Safety Committee, said, “On behalf of the public safety committee, I just want to thank the group of lifeguards and beach patrol that do a great job for us. I want to thank them for their diligence in handling all the questions we have about the different safety procedures. They are always so responsive.”
He noted that some areas on the beach are difficult to reach during high tide, particularly near Pelican’s Nest. Kortvelesy said he even witnessed a person who had gone out to a nearby sandbar and got caught in the current, trying to return to shore. He said the person made it back, but that it raised his concerns.
Edgerton reassured Kortvelesy that his team is aware of the areas that are unreachable during high tide.
“It’s a dynamic beach, and some areas are always changing,” Edgerton said. “We have the jet ski that we can use and deploy as needed. We are always maintaining vigilance, and we patrol uniformly in our trucks. We will go on foot when we need to as well.”
Kortvelesy urged Edgerton to communicate his needs for equipment if more is needed at the end of the season.
“Whatever needs to be done to keep our beaches safe,” Kortvelesy said.
TOWN OF KIAWAH
Board of Zoning Appeals
Monday, June 16, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Resiliency Committee
Wednesday, June 18, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Ways & Means Committee
Tuesday, July 1, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, July 1, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, July 2, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
TOWN OF SEABROOK
Public Safety Committee
Tuesday, June 17, 8:30 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Utility Commission
Wednesday, June 18, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, June 24, 2:30 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Board of Zoning Appeals
Wednesday, June 25, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Community Promotion & Engagement
Thursday, June 26, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
PHOTOS: THERESA STRATFORD)
Mayor Bruce Kleinman, left, with Robert Ederton of Barrier Island Ocean Rescue.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF SEABROOK ISLAND.
Beyond Our Gates (continued from page 1)
grandkids. I have been an investment banker for nearly 40 years, and Karen was a retail and sales executive before becoming a full-time, stay-at-home mother when our kids started school.”
When did you first notice the poverty of some areas outside of Kiawah? Was there a particular experience that opened your eyes to it?
“The catalyst for forming Beyond Our Gates started back in 2019 when Karen and I were saddened by the closure of the Rural Mission, which had been serving the at-risk populations of the five Charleston Sea Islands for over 50 years. Over the next few years, we spent significant time in the low-income communities across the Charleston Sea Islands, raising our awareness of the widespread poverty and severe deficit of essential resources and services that exist in these areas.” Tell us more about the organization as a grant-making foundation.
“The Beyond the Gates Foundation of Kiawah & Seabrook is a public, 501(c) (3) endowment based, grant-making community foundation. The mission of Beyond Our Gates is to improve the lives of our less fortunate neighbors in the five nearby Charleston Sea Islands by investing in them, connecting them to urgently needed resources and empowering them to build a future filled with hope and opportunity.
As a grant-making foundation, we do not directly provide services to the local community — rather, we raise funding from the residents of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands and award grants to outstanding nonprofits that are doing the essential work in the struggling neighborhoods not far from where we call home. In late June 2025, Beyond Our Gates will launch our third fall grant cycle. We are targeting the awarding of $500,000 in grants, which will bring the total amount of grants we have awarded to over $1.25 million. We have established strategic partnerships with 27 of the leading nonprofits serving the critical needs of low-income residents across the five Charleston Sea Islands (Johns, Wadmalaw, James, Edisto and Yonges/Hollywood/ Meggett).”
What are some of the nonprofits you serve in the area?
“There are currently 27 local organizations that serve the critical needs of the low-income communities adjacent to Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. They are the following: A Time of Refreshing; Arts, etc.; Backpack Buddies; Barrier Islands Free
Medical Clinic; Begin with Books; Bridges of Hope; Camp Happy Days; Charleston Area Senior Citizens; Charleston Area Therapeutic Riding; Charleston Hope; Edisto Island Youth Recreation; Fields to Families; Florence Crittenton Programs; Going Places; HALOS; James Island Outreach; Kids on Point; Low Country Orphan Relief; One80 Place; Operation Home; Operation Sight; Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach; Paraclete Foundation; Sea Islands Habitat for Humanity; Sea Island Hunger Awareness Foundation; Teacher’s Supply Closet; and Turn 90.
Talk about the future of the organization.
“Our vision is that Beyond Our Gates will evolve into a long-term vehicle to enable the generous residents and institutions of Kiawah and Seabrook to support and empower those who are living lives that are close to ours in proximity but in stark contrast to ours in reality.”
How do you think this will drastically help the nonprofits in the area?
“Our long-term goal for Beyond Our Gates is to build a $25+ million endowment, which would allow us to fund $2.0+ million of annual grants into perpetuity and have a game-changing impact in providing support, resources and hope to our adjacent low-income communities.”
Talk about the event on June 25. What do you hope to gain from it?
“The event on June 25 at The River Course Ballroom on Kiawah is a free event open to all Kiawah and Seabrook homeowners. The event is designed to be an evening of fellowship and a vehicle to foster a community-wide dialogue about the many in critical need living just beyond our gates. Our goals for the evening are to raise awareness of the often-forgotten communities that have existed for so long right beside us as ‘islands of poverty amidst a sea of prosperity’ and to invite our friends and neighbors on Kiawah and Seabrook to join us in this important mission. It has been incredibly rewarding to see the tangible impacts that Beyond Our Gates is having on the often-forgotten communities that have existed for so long right beside us.”
For more information on Beyond Our Gates, visit beyondourgates.org. The event on June 25 will take place at 7 p.m.. McDonagh said, “Come and enjoy an evening of fellowship and help foster a community-wide dialogue about the many in critical need living just beyond our gates.”
Karen and Brian McDonagh.
Rediscovering Enchantment
JULY ARTIST KAYLEIGH BREAUX
BY ROD MORRIS For The Island Connection
Known by many Seabrook residents as a dedicated personal fitness trainer, Kayleigh Breaux’s passion for art has been a lifelong journey. She has long gravitated to different mediums, such as acrylic paints and graphite, as a way to capture the likeness of her subject matter. Breaux has always turned to creative expression as a way to reflect her Creator's handiwork.
Originally from Georgia, Breaux moved to Charleston in the fourth grade, a pivotal moment that sparked her artistic spirit. She fondly remembers wandering the charming streets of downtown Charleston, where the vibrant gallery scene first stirred her imagination and gave her a glimpse into the world of visual storytelling.
Her talent blossomed through middle and high school, where she earned numerous accolades, from honorable mentions to first place awards in local art shows. But as recognition grew, the the joy of creating began to dim under the weight of expectations. Art became more about fulfilling requests than feeding her soul and honoring the gift she’d been given.
That changed recently, thanks to the support and encouragement of the Seabrook Artist Guild. With their help, Breaux rediscovered the enchantment of making art for the sheer joy of it. It all started (again) because of a cute little dog rendered in charcoal and two kind-hearted art lovers whose encouragement meant the world.
Breaux’s collection for the July Artist of the Month exhibit is full of pieces that reflect her humor, warmth and appreciation for the everyday charm that surrounds us. She hopes her work offers viewers the same delight she felt while creating it—a moment of amusement, a smile, perhaps a sense of connection.
Meet Kayleigh Beaux and witness her artistic journey at her Artist of the Month reception on Tuesday, July 8, from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Seabrook Island Lake House.
PHOTOS: COURTESY OF KAYLEIGH BREAUX
has set a cap on short-term rental permits. Inside the Short-Term Rental Overlay District, the cap is 557 permits, while in all other areas, it’s 110. The Town Council made these decisions effective with the license year beginning May 1, 2025.
At the end of the 2024/2025 permit year, he said they processed 624 short-term rental applications. There were 508 inside the overlay district and 116 outside. This was before the cap was set.
Cronin said, “We’ll probably be right at the cap once we get everything processed for this year. I do expect to have some space inside the overlay, and that’s multifamily, townhomes, condos, villas and beachfront properties.”
He thinks it will take a couple of weeks, if not more, to get through the rest of the written and emailed shortterm rental applications. He said that once they hit the cap, they will start the waiting list.
Cronin noted that, at some point, the Town would require short-term rental applications to go through CitizenServe due to the amount of time it is taking to enter them manually.
“You can imagine that it is a very laborious process,” he mentioned. “We even had to bring in some temporary part-time support. We are trying to move through them as quickly as possible.”
Mayor Bruce Kleinman concluded the discussion by saying that he was very disappointed in the number of people who submitted written or emailed applications versus online through CitizenServe.
“I never dreamed that there would be this few applications submitted electronically,” he said. “This has certainly caused more work and more time for our staff, and I just want everyone listening to know that we wish this process were faster. This is not something we feel is OK. We are doing everything we can to get it done as quickly as possible.”
More information on short-term rentals can be found at townofseabrookisland.org/str.html. For more information on Citizenserve, visit citizenserve.com.
Eat Local Shrimp!
SOUTH CAROLINA'S COMMERCIAL TRAWLING SEASON IS OPEN
BY SCDNR For The Island Connection
“Although we did have a cold snap in late January, white shrimp numbers across South Carolina’s estuaries have generally been near the longterm average this winter and spring,” said biologist Jeff Brunson of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
In an average year, shrimp season opens in full by late spring, typically after the opening of eight smaller provisional areas in the state’s outer waters. This year, those provisional areas opened on April 24, allowing shrimpers to begin harvesting some larger white shrimp from farther offshore while still protecting most of the spawning population closer to shore.
Opening the season too soon – and allowing trawlers to catch too many females that have not had an opportunity to spawn – could reduce the size of the fall white shrimp crop, which are the offspring of the spring white shrimp.
SCDNR officials set the opening date for shrimp season each year based on the conditions of the shrimp themselves. Aboard both commercial and agency vessels, biologists sample and study white shrimp frequently in late spring. One of the things they’re looking for is evidence that a majority of female white shrimp have already spawned at least once.
South Carolina's commercial shrimp calendar has historically had three peak periods. In the spring, shrimpers typically capitalize on the influx of roe white shrimp – large, early-season shrimp that generally fetch higher prices. The summer months are defined by a peak in brown shrimp, which are similar to white shrimp in size and taste. In the fall and to winter, shrimpers bring in a second crop of white shrimp; the offspring of the spring roe shrimp.
Because white shrimp are a short-lived species that are sensitive to cold water temperatures and unusually wet or dry summers, their numbers can fluctuate dramatically from year to year. However, they’re also prolific spawners – which means that the populations can quickly rebound even after a poor year or season.
All-Girls Surf Competition Returns to Folly Beach
BY AMBER DOSKOS For The Island Connection
The Wahines are back!
And they’re bringing more boards, more soul and more sisterhood than ever before to the iconic surf spot, the Washout, for the 23rd Annual Folly Beach Wahine Classic, hosted Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27. Registration information coming soon.
The longestrunning women’s surf competition on the East Coast and the only one of its kind in South Carolina brings together a vibrant lineup of surfers of all ages and abilities. Drawing 250 surfers and their families, friends and supporters from across the nation, the Folly Wahine is more than just a surf competition: It’s a celebration of the strength of surfer women (wahines) through a fun weekend of surf competition, girl power
and camaraderie.
The competition is free to attend, and spectators are encouraged to cheer on the Wahines.
Event donations support a wave of local ocean-based organizations, including Warrior Surf, Surfers Healing, Waves 4 Women, She’s On Edge, Charleston Surfrider, Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network and more.
Become a sponsor of the competition, and gain meaningful exposure in a spirited, community-driven atmosphere. Sponsorship and donation opportunities and benefits are available at FollyWahine.com.
Keep up with the swell on Facebook at Folly Beach Wahine Classic and/or Instagram @ FollyBeachWahine.
From chipped teeth to
Swing Dancing at Kiawah Town Hall
Join your neighbors on Monday June 16 from 4–7 p.m. for an unforgettable evening of swing dancing, music, and summer vibes.
Two professional instructors will kick things off with a one-hour, beginner-friendly lesson, followed by two hours of social dancing to live music and good company. No partner or experience needed; just bring your energy and get ready to dance the evening away! This event is free to attend and open to the public. No registration required.
Village Dentistr y
to your island
ONGOING
around the islands...
WHAT: Charleston City Market Night Market
WHERE: Charleston City Market
WHEN: Each Friday and Saturday, 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., Mar – Dec
MORE INFO: The market is located between Church Street and East Bay Street. It provides the opportunity to discover quality, unique, local and handcrafted items.
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: 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: 5th Annual Lowcountry Juneteenth Week
WHERE: Various
WHEN: June 16–23
MORE INFO: The 5th Annual Lowcountry Juneteenth Week Festival runs from June 16–23, 2025. The multi-day festival honors the spirit of Juneteenth with a lineup of music, history, culture, family fun, and community empowerment across the Lowcountry. Visit j19week.com for more info.
SATURDAY, JUNE 14
WHAT: 8th Annual Lowcountry Open
WHERE: Various WHEN: All day
MORE INFO: This event offers an opportunity to celebrate the men in our lives while supporting a cause that directly impacts them. The fishing tournament will feature both Inshore and Kingfish Divisions, expanding access and competition for even more local anglers.. To register, volunteer, or learn more, visit thelowcountryopen.com.
SUNDAY, JUNE 15
WHAT: Lowcountry Pizza Fest - “The Largest Pizza Party in the City” WHERE: The Refinery, 1640 Meeting St., Charleston WHEN: 12 p.m.
MORE INFO: This Father’s Day, Lowcountry Pizza Fest will be held at The Refinery in downtown Charleston. Hosted by Christine England of “Lowcountry Eat Out.” and Mike Piterra, US Pizza Team + Owner of Pizza Modo Mio. The family-friendly event will bring together local and regional pizza vendors, interactive pizza-themed games, live performances, and charitable giving.
MONDAY, JUNE 16
WHAT: Swing into Summer
WHERE: Town of Kiawah Island Town Hall WHEN: 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Town is hosting free swing dancing lessons and a dance social hour by instructors from Holy City Swing
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
WHAT: CLS Book Club - F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
WHERE: Charleston Library Society, 164 King St., Charleston
WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: CLS Book Club is free in-person, and open to the public. Whether you’ve finished the book, are thinking about starting it, or couldn’t make it past the halfway point, you can attend. RSVP is required. Learn more at charlestonlibrarysociety.org/series/summer-2025.
WHAT: Yoga Fest
WHERE: James Island Country Park
WHEN: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Embrace the summer solstice during Yoga Fest at James Island County Park. This family-friendly event celebrates summer and community, while offering activities and entertainment. The event will open with a performance by AcroCharlestonSC and live reggae music from Mystic Vibrations at 6 p.m. Yoga will begin in the meadow starting at 6:30 p.m., with a kids yoga class provided by Empowered Minds offered at the same time. All ages and abilities are welcome. After yoga, participants are invited to join the Acro Yoga Jam at 7:30 p.m. Acro Yoga combines yoga and acrobatics. Anyone interested in trying the activity, whether beginners or experienced practitioners, is encouraged to join in on this fun and informal session. For more information or to register, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
SATURDAY, JUNE 21
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 am, showcasing unique cars and offering the opportunity to purchase coffee from Java Java.
WHAT: Charleston Battery Home Game vs. Phoenix Rising FC
WHERE: Patriots Point Soccer Stadium, 85 Patriots Point Rd., Mount Pleasant WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Catch the Charleston Battery in action.
SUNDAY, JUNE 22
WHAT: Katie Sturino with Grace Atwood celebrating “Sunny Side Up.”
WHERE: Halls Signature Events, 5 Faber St., Charleston WHEN: 4 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join Buxton Books at Halls Signature Events as they welcome bodyacceptance advocate, MEGABABE founder, and author Katie Sturino to Charleston.
WHAT: Gavin Degraw
WHERE: The Riviera Theater, 227 King St., Charleston WHEN: 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: GRAMMY® Award-nominated multi-platinum singer and songwriter Gavin DeGraw’s inimitable voice and soulful style boldly bloomed on his 2003 platinum-certified full-length debut, Chariot. It included the gold single “Follow Through,” as well as both platinum hits, “Chariot,” and “I Don’t Want To Be.”
TUESDAY, JUNE 24
WHAT: Carolina Heroism at the Dawn of Liberty WHERE: Charleston Library Society, 164 King St., Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Carolina Day marks the anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island fought on June 28, 1776. As a runway to next year’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday, the Charleston Library Society is partnering with SC250 to delve deeper into Revolutionary lore through a series of late eighteenth-century tales, with this first installment featuring history buff Norm Rickeman, and an analysis into his book “Unsung: William Moultrie and the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. ”
THURSDAY, JUNE 26
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 pm 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.
Alligator Mating Season Safety
Alligator mating season begins in May and continues through June. Alligators are more active and mobile and therefore more visible around the island. Male alligators participate in mating rituals that announce their presence with a low bellowing sound to attract their mates. They may also slap the water with their jaws and lift their tails high, causing vibrations through the water. The Town of Kiawah Island recommends the following alligator safety rules be followed:
• Stay at least 60 feet (the length of four cars) away from all alligators.
• Do not feed alligators.
• Do not crab or fish near alligators.
• Do not throw used bait or fish parts back into the water after fishing or crabbing.
• Do not throw objects at alligators or harass them in any way.
• Keep children and pets away from the edges of lakes and ponds.
• Keep out of secluded pond areas where alligators may be nesting. Females are very protective of their nests and their young.
If you encounter an aggressive alligator on Kiawah or see anyone in violation of the Town's alligator safety rules, please report it to one of the following:
• The County’s non-emergency number: 843-3087333
• The Town (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.): 843-768-9166
• After-Hours Code Enforcement Hotline (5 p.m. to 1 a.m. during weekdays and ): 843-714-9819 To report an alligator attack, please call 9-11.
SCDNR engages with Congressional Delegation and White House
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) recently met with every member of South Carolina’s Congressional Delegation on Capitol Hill to advocate for continued federal support for the agency’s conservation mission.
These conversations, along with recent engagement with the White House Council on Environmental Quality, reflect SCDNR’s commitment to working closely with federal partners to advance shared priorities for South Carolina’s natural resources.
Approximately 23% of SCDNR’s annual budget is supported by federal funding, which is essential for sustaining core programs related to natural resource management, habitat protection, marine and wildlife research and public access to outdoor recreation.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with our delegation and White House partners,” said Director Thomas Mullikin. “Their support is essential for advancing long-term conservation objectives across South Carolina.”
With decades in real estate, including leading over 1,500 agents and top-producing teams, I’ve returned to what matters most: helping people make confident, meaningful moves.
(l to r) Congressman James Clyburn, SCDNR Director Thomas Mullikin, Chief of Staff Shannon Bobertz, Colonel Chisolm Frampton and Deputy Director of Marine Resources Division Blaik Keppler during a recent visit to Washington, D.C.
Charleston Symphony Announces Mitsuko Flynn as Chief Operating and Impact Officer
The Charleston Symphony (CSO) proudly announces the promotion of Mitsuko Flynn to the new leadership role of Chief Operating and Impact Officer. In this expanded position, Flynn will oversee the execution of all CSO programming—including concert operations, education initiatives and community engagement—as well as the organization’s daily financial management.
The role underscores CSO’s commitment to operational excellence, strategic alignment and impactful community outreach as it advances its 2025 Strategic Plan. “This promotion reflects not only Mitsuko’s exceptional contributions to the CSO but also the continued growth and complexity of our organization,” said Michael Smith, CEO of the Charleston Symphony.
“Mitsuko’s leadership, vision and dedication to our mission have made her an indispensable part of our team. I look forward to the continued momentum we will build together.”
Flynn brings a wealth of experience in both arts administration and music education. Since joining the Charleston Symphony in 2017, she has spearheaded a significant expansion of the organization’s education and outreach programs, including doubling the size of the Charleston Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO) while maintaining its high artistic standards including a milestone debut performance at the world-renowned
Carnegie Hall. Most recently, she served as the Director of Education and Business Operations, where she strengthened the Symphony’s infrastructure through innovative programming and cross-sector partnerships.
“I’m honored to take on this leadership role at such a pivotal time for the Charleston Symphony,” said Flynn. “Our work on stage, in schools and throughout the community is made possible by a foundation of thoughtful planning, collaboration and financial stewardship. I’m excited to continue building systems
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that support artistic excellence and deepen our impact across the greater Charleston area.”
An accomplished cellist and passionate advocate for music education, Flynn previously worked with the Paterson Music Project, an El Sistema-inspired initiative in Paterson, New Jersey, and served on the faculty of Montclair State University’s John J. Cali School of Music Preparatory Division. She holds an MBA in Arts Innovation from the Global Leaders Institute and degrees in cello performance from Montclair State University. Flynn currently serves as
Chairman of the Board for the Allegro Charter School of Music in Charleston. In addition to her promotion, Flynn was recently selected as one of only six orchestra professionals nationwide to join the 2025 cohort of the Anne Parsons Leadership Program, presented by the League of American Orchestras. The prestigious program honors the legacy of the late Anne Parsons, a transformative orchestra leader, and is dedicated to developing gender-diverse leadership in America’s largest-budget orchestras. For more information, please visit harlestonsymphony.org.
Hurricane Season is Underway
BY FRANK STRAIT, SEVERE WEATHER LIAISON
T10:52am/11:22pm 11:36am 12:04am/12:25pm 12:51am/1:19pm 1:42am/2:18pm 2:38am/3:18pm 3:38am/4:19pm 4:39am/5:20pm 5:41am/6:20pm 6:42am/7:19pm 7:42am/8:16pm 8:40am/9:11pm 9:36am/10:04pm 10:31am/10:54pm
Jun 27 Source:
5:01am/4:45pm 5:43am/5:32pm 6:27am/6:25pm 7:14am/7:23pm 8:04am/8:27pm 8:57am/9:35pm 9:53am/10:42pm 10:50am/11:47pm 11:47am 12:48am/12:44pm 1:45am/1:40pm 2:39am/2:34pm 3:32am/3:28pm 4:22am/4:20pm
he Atlantic hurricane season started June 1 and will last through the end of November. Once again, we're likely to see a busierthan-average season in the Atlantic Basin. However, things are different than they were over the last few hurricane seasons, so we don't anticipate a hyperactive season this year.
A significant amount of information and research goes into issuing one of these outlooks. The two primary factors influencing an Atlantic Basin outlook are the state of ENSO (El NiñoSouthern Oscillation, which involves the combination of water temperatures over the equatorial central and eastern Pacific Ocean relative to normal and their impact on global circulation) and sea temperatures across the tropical and subtropical parts of the Atlantic Basin. Both of these factors are different from the last couple of years. In 2023, an El Niño (characterized by warm equatorial waters in the central and eastern Pacific) was ongoing, while in 2024, a La Niña (characterized by cool equatorial waters in the east and central Pacific) was present. Currently, we have neither one in progress; water temperatures in the ENSO region of the Pacific are near average. We refer to this as ENSO neutral conditions; more jovial scientists may call it "La Nada." The state of ENSO is essential because it has a big impact on Atlantic hurricane activity. During El Niño, we tend to see westerly winds aloft over the Caribbean Sea and tropical Atlantic Ocean, leading to vertical wind shear that tears tropical cyclones apart.
The air over these regions also tends to be less humid and more stable, which makes it harder for thunderstorms and tropical cyclones to develop. The opposite is true during La Niña; you tend to see lighter winds aloft, and the air over the tropical Atlantic Basin is more humid and more unstable. So, you tend to see more storms form in the Atlantic during La Niña. The ENSO-neutral conditions we currently have tend to result in a somewhat more active hurricane season, but not to the extreme that we see with La Niña. You can find a more detailed explanation and graphics to go along with it from the online Climate Prediction Center.
Sea temperatures across the Atlantic Basin are critical because warm ocean waters are fuel for a tropical cyclone. The warmer the ocean waters are, the more intense a tropical cyclone can become. In recent years, the waters across the tropical and subtropical Atlantic have been far warmer than normal. At times, the areaaverage temperature has been at record warmth. However, this has changed in recent months. The tropical Atlantic has cooled considerably, and the Caribbean Sea isn't as warm as it has been. However, most of this area remains warmer than average. This serves to enhance the potential for Atlantic hurricane activity this year, but it's not as favorable as it has been in the last few years.
Once again, SCEMD has plenty of hurricane prep resources to help you over at hurricane.sc, so head over that way to find out what you need to be ready for the hurricane season.
For The Island Connection
Mitsuko Flynn.
Help is on the Way
COFFEE CHATS ON SEABROOK FOSTER A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
BY BONNIE YOUNGINER For The Island Connection
The Beatles’ song “Help” was primarily written by John Lennon and holds more significance than just being one of the greatest songs of all time – it grapples with one’s reactions to life’s changes. Sometimes, it is difficult to ask for help, but there are many reasons to do so.
On Seabrook Island is a volunteer community offering the same help requested in the song. It is known as Seabrook Island Village, Neighbors Helping Neighbors. This group of vetted and trained volunteers supports folks in numerous ways, such as driving to the grocery store or pharmacy or to a doctor’s appointment, offering morning check-ins by phone and many others. Without the assistance of SIV volunteers, seniors could face escalating costs for these services. And perhaps most importantly, the services allow people to remain in their homes and in their community.
One of these valuable volunteers is Chris DiLella, a retired Catholic priest of 46 years originally from Paterson, New Jersey. In 2020, he moved to Seabrook Island along with his brother, George, and sister-in-law, Karen.
Recently, several members of SIV Member Services Volunteer Coordination and Outreach committees had an in-depth conversation with DiLella. We learned he volunteers as a driver, transporting folks to events or appointments. He assists at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Johns Island, celebrating weekday and weekend Masses, and also teaches a scripture course during the fall and winter months. The scripture course is for all parish members, as well as those outside the parish. It also attracts participants from other Christian denominations; all are welcome to attend.
Realizing the needs of the elderly, the homebound and many others, Gail Kahl, another SIV volunteer, contacted DiLella to brainstorm how best to address concerns. By the end of several discussions and exploring possibilities, Coffee Chats was created as a way to bring people together to discuss life stories and share in relationship building.
Today, Coffee Chats has been active for almost two years and is held monthly on a rotating day from 1:30 – 2:15 p.m. with light hospitality provided. Priority attendance for the Chats is given to members of SIV, with usually 10-15 people in attendance. The chairs are arranged in a horseshoe shape, fostering a feeling of community and encouraging interaction.
“As residents come together on a monthly basis, they develop relationships with one another,” DiLella says. “They become comfortable sharing their life experiences, histories and hopes.”
At the beginning of each Coffee Chat, DiLella suggests a topic and asks the participants for their thoughts on the topic. A good friend helped him create and formulate many of these topics.
A few examples of the topics are:
• Reminiscing about your childhood and how it impacted your life.
• Past stories about how you got to Seabrook or Kiawah and how the islands have changed over the years.
• Favorite memories of Seabrook Island with your children or grandchildren.
• Children or grandchildren having questions about your life experiences.
• Life journey as a whole.
DiLella also introduced participants to the song “Help.” They all agreed the story in the lyrics tell sounded familiar:
“When I was younger, so much younger than today, I never needed anybody's help in any way.
But now these days are gone, and I'm not so self-assured,
Now I find I've changed my mind; I've opened up the doors.”
Thank you, Chris DiLella, for volunteering with SIV. Your work is so important. Those who are interested in becoming a member of SIV may contact the group by email at sivillagemail@gmail.com, or call 843-212-7181 and leave a message.
Chris DiLella.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF SEABROOK ISLAND VILLAGE.
