Change is in the air for Andell West
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
It’s been a minute since the Kiawah and Seabrook Island community has heard from Andell West.
Since around 2023, to be exact.
In Mayor Bradley Belt’s update at the May 6 Kiawah Island Town Council meeting, a possible change to Andell West was announced.
He noted that Riverstone Properties recently approached the Town of Kiawah Island about putting in a traffic circle at the entrance to the proposed Andell West.
“That is something that had been looked at by our traffic engineer as a long-term solution,” he said. “The analysis was based upon a full buildout of Andell West’s commercial development and all its phases. It also included the residential development that’s allowed on both sides of the Kiawah Island Parkway.”
Belt added that the question is whether the traffic circle, and all the work that would accompany such a proposal, is necessary at this point. He said that he wanted Council’s input.
He updated that since April 2023, there is still the plan to build the Harris Teeter at the current location, and that it is on schedule to open in 2029. He said that one difference is that the fuel
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Kiawah Town Hall
Could See a New Wing
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
An expansion to Kiawah Island’s Town Hall is in the works, but first they would need to choose an architectural firm to design specs they approve.
During the Town Council meeting that occurred on May 6, the first step was taken, and Kiawah Island Town Council approved a total of $60,000, which would be $20,000 each to go to three design firms to create conceptual designs. Only one will ultimately get the job.
This is an attempt by Kiawah Island Town Council to solicit expert designs from qualified architectural firms.
Mayor Bradley Belt said that they will go through the usual channels of posting the Request for Information. The Town would then put together a design review committee, and they would review the submissions. They’ll interview each of the firms and then, from there, select three firms to go forward to develop a conceptual design.
Belt said, “The $20,000 stipend signals the seriousness of the purpose and is an incentive to put some serious time and effort into developing the concept.”
Once the Town receives
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A Trusted Relationship
ACOASTAL EXPEDITIONS PARTNERS WITH TOWN OF KIAWAH
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
lthough commercial activities are restricted from operating on the beach in the Town of Kiawah Island, there are some exceptions if the business seeks a license to do so.
That’s just what Coastal Expeditions did at the May 6 Town Council meeting. Coastal Expeditions, a local tour operator, proposed to do business at Sandy Point on Kiawah Island. The restrictions stem from a desire to preserve and protect the coastal region. However, since Coastal Expeditions offers an educational aspect, they are considered integral to the Town, offering public awareness of coastal conservation and stewardship to the Town’s natural ecosystems.
Along with Kiawah Island, Coastal Expeditions also conducts tours of Bulls Island, Cape Romain, Shem Creek, St. Helena Island and Beaufort. They teach guests about the area’s native plants, animals, history and culture.
The tours that Coastal Expeditions leads on Kiawah Island take place at Sandy Point, along the Stono River.
When the Town of Kiawah Island decided to restrict commercial businesses from operating on the beach, they were cognizant of the fact that some businesses should be allowed, especially those that offer an educational component. Another component admirable for businesses when they use Kiawah Island’s beaches for commercial operation is to have a community service activity.
Town Council Member Russell Berner suggested
that Coastal Expeditions include a beach sweep in their operations.
Capt. Chris Crowley, owner of Coastal Expeditions, presented at the meeting. He said that he had no problem offering a beach sweep and appreciated the suggestion. “I’ll do more than one,” Crowley said.
Even though other businesses would be allowed to operate on Kiawah Island’s beaches if they go through the correct channels to get the license, Crowley said that he wanted to set the precedent on the island as a business that operates with integrity and with conservation in mind.
For example, Kiawah Island would not want booze cruises operating on its beaches. Crowley specifically said that they would never operate a booze cruise.
“We know that other companies may come out there seeking a permit to conduct business on the beach, but let us set the high-quality precedent,” Crowley said. “Let our company be the model business that sets the precedent for the type of commercial activity Kiawah would want on their beaches.”
He continued, “I don’t think of this as a marketing opportunity. I think of it as a relationship to be proud of and one that is building a culture.”
In the end, the Kiawah Island Town Council unanimously voted in favor of permitting Coastal Expeditions to operate on the beach. They did not include the requirement for the litter sweep, even though Crowley said he would be happy to conduct one.
Coastal Expeditions offers adventure with an educational aspect.
PHOTO: ABBI COCHRAN
PUBLISHERS OF
The Island Eye News, The Island Connection & SiP Magazine
Christian Senger AssistAnt Publisher
Denise K. James editor denisekjames@gmail.com
Swan Richards grAPhic design Advertising advertising@mylonews.com 267-225-0192 Lynn Pierotti consultAnt lynn@luckydognews.com CONTRIBUTORS
TShellfish Harvest Season is Closed
BY SCDNR
For The Island Connection
he 2024-2025 season for harvest of oysters, mussels, clams and all other bivalves from South Carolina's State Shellfish Grounds and Public Shellfish Grounds closed on Wednesday, May 28 at a half hour after sunset, according to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officials.
Because higher bacterial levels occur when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, shellfish harvesting during the summer months is limited to certain oyster farms that meet rigorous handling and operations requirements. Coastal waters will remain closed to recreational shellfish harvesting until the fall, when water temperatures begin to cool and ensure that shellfish are once again safe for harvesting and consumption. Shellfish harvesting is expected to reopen October 1.
Although shellfish harvesting is closed to the public during the summer, the South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement (SCORE) program accepts recycled oyster shells year-round. Shell recycling drop-off locations are located throughout coastal counties and at a few inland locations. Collection sites can be found online or by calling SCDNR at 843-953-9397. Other types of shell, such as clams and whelks, are
also accepted.
During the summer months, SCDNR biologists return the recycled shell to shorelines, where it provides an ideal base for juvenile oysters to attach and grow, thereby replenishing harvested beds. When the quantity of shell needed to replant shellfish grounds exceeds that which is recycled, SCDNR must purchase shell at increasing cost. Even a modest increase in recycled shell can save a significant amount of money. SCDNR’s shellfish recycling, restoration and enhancement efforts are funded in part by saltwater recreational fishing license sales.
Although oyster harvesting slows down in the summer, oyster reef construction heats up. Late spring and early summer are busy months for SCORE’s community-based oyster restoration work, in which the public is invited to work with SCDNR staff and other volunteers to create oyster habitat using recycled shell. The resulting oyster reefs provide a host of ecological services, including water filtration, nutrient cycling, and habitat for fish and invertebrates.
Check the SCORE webpage for a calendar of events, or email the community restoration staff at score@dnr. sc.gov.
Conservation of Fairfield Plantation expanded
Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, announced the permanent protection of an additional portion of Fairfield Plantation, an ecologically rich and historically significant property located on the South Santee River at the gateway to Charleston County along both sides of U.S. Highway 17.
This conservation success adds 254 acres to an already impressive network of protected lands in the region. Fairfield Plantation lies within a mosaic of large private conservation easements, reinforcing a nearly contiguous landscape of preserved forest and wetlands that shields the Santee Delta from increasing development pressure encroaching from the south.
The conserved property also sits in direct proximity to more than 350,000 acres of publicly protected lands, including Francis Marion National Forest (259,000 acres), Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge (66,306 acres), Santee Coastal Heritage Preserve (24,000 acres), and Hampton Plantation State Historic Site (300 acres).
In 2013, the landowners placed 480 acres of Fairfield Plantation into a perpetual conservation easement with Lowcountry Land Trust. In 2024, they returned to complete their conservation vision by bargain-selling an easement on an additional 254 acres of the property.
“Thanks to this private family’s excellent stewardship and their generous donation of value in placing a conservation easement on the remainder of Fairfield Plantation, the Santee Delta will continue to thrive in its ecologically rich, relatively natural state,” said Hunter Allen, who managed the project for Lowcountry Land Trust. “We’re proud to help secure the future for this remarkable part of the Lowcountry.”
Fairfield Plantation’s conservation easement expansion stands as an example of how public-private partnerships, community values and landowner generosity can unite to preserve the Lowcountry’s natural and cultural heritage. The protection of Fairfield Plantation was made possible in part through funding from the Charleston County Greenbelt Program, underscoring the collaborative nature of conservation in the region.
Stay connected by following @ LowcountryLandTrust on social media.
TOWN OF KIAWAH
Ways & Means Committee
Tuesday, June 3, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, June 3, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, June 4, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Infrastructure and Public Works
Thursday, June 5, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Arts & Cultural Event Council
Thursday, June 5, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
TOWN OF SEABROOK
Planning Commission
Wednesday, June 11, 1:30 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Environment & Wildlife Committee
Thursday, June 12, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
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
Shell fish beds.
Kiawah Town Hall (continued from page 1)
the three conceptual designs, they will conduct public forums to review them. The design review committee would then choose one to recommend for approval. “They would have all the answers to questions like what it is going to look like, how it’s going to be cited, what it is going to cost, the timeframe and the critical path of action,” Belt said.
The new wing to Town Hall would be considered a civic and cultural addition to the municipal center that would be used by the public. There would be community meeting spaces, an auditorium facility, additional parking spaces, storage space, bathrooms, dressing rooms and display space.
The auditorium would be intended for smaller audiences. Belt said it would accommodate about 250 to 300 people. Belt also commented on the septic tank that currently serves Town Hall. “It is not ideal, and I don’t know that it would even have sufficient capacity. Sewer is one of those issues we would
Andell
West (continued from page 1)
center would be moved to an area closer to the Kiawah Island Parkway.
Belt explained that another change would be that the first phase of the project would no longer include a new shopping village and restaurant row.
“Phase one would just be the Harris Teeter and the fuel center, as well as three pads of commercial space. The other stuff would come at a later time in a sub-future phase.”
He said that communication would be key to finding out when the future phases would take place for the development.
Belt also commented on the full integration with Freshfields Village. “It was clear that this was a certain condition of the agreement.”
He continued, “There are a host of issues that need to be ironed out. It may be premature to spend the kind of time and effort to talk about that right now.”
Belt said that there is plenty of egress and ingress at Freshfields Village.
Council Member Russell Berner said that he thought it was not necessary to address that today since, “It isn’t going to be built out until 2029 or 2030, so we could wait.”
Belt added that he is trying to hold
like to explore. We’ve talked to Kiawah Island Utility and Seabrook Island Utility about getting a sewer connection,” he said.
Town Council Member Luke Farrell said that the Town could pay for this out of its accommodations taxes.
“That way, we aren’t burdening the town’s people with some financial situation. We have the money to pay for this.” Farrell also mentioned that as they build it, they won’t have to use the capital. They could use a loan or a tax-exempt payment bond as well.
Although Belt acknowledged that this topic will warrant further discussions, the entire Town Council voted unanimously to approve $60,000 to go to three design firms – split three ways – to create conceptual designs for a new addition to Kiawah Island’s Town Hall. Once the designs are reviewed, Town Council will then seek the steps on how to move forward.
the developer accountable for what was agreed upon in April of 2023.
He ended the meeting saying that he would continue to have conversations with the developer and try to get more clarity.
According to the Town of Kiawah Island’s website: “Andell West is a proposed commercial planned development adjacent to Freshfields Village in Unincorporated Charleston County. The development will provide a full-size grocery store for the Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns Island communities. In addition, the development will include opportunities for retail and services in line with the grocery store and throughout. This request is a proposed rezoning of the subject parcel from the Low Density Residential (R-4) Zoning District to the Andell West Commercial Planned Development. Unincorporated Charleston County processes all permitting applications for this proposed development. Charleston County Council approved the third reading of this proposed rezoning on October 23, 2023. There are no current updates on a proposed timeline of permitting or construction.”
A rendering of the town hall with a new wing.
TOWN OF KIAWAH ISLAND
Hundreds of swimmers and volunteers are getting ready to fight cancer at the 9th annual Swim Across America - CharlestonKiawah open water swim. This year’s swim will be held Saturday, June 7 at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Night Heron Park. The event raises crucial funds for cancer research at the Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. There are three swim options available: a half mile or a 1 ½ mile open water option or a same day pool swim option. Participants can also join in virtually with SAA My Way. Boaters, kayakers, paddle boarders and land volunteers are also needed for this event. To register as a swimmer or a volunteer, visit swimacrossamerica.org/ charleston.
Make Waves to Fight Cancer
9TH ANNUAL SWIM ACROSS AMERICA
BY JENIFER HOWARD For The Island Connection
Following the open water and pool swim, there will be a Pool Party with Olympic swimmers that includes fun contests, relays and instruction from Olympians and the Swim Across America team. Olympic swimmers Jenny Thompson and Janel Jorgensen McArdle are already confirmed to participate. All Pool Party attendees receive a swim cap, fun tattoo and opportunities to win Swim Across America swag. The Pool Party is open to all ages, and participants are encouraged to bring friends and family. Mention Swim Across America at the gate if coming from off-island to attend.
“The Swim Across AmericaCharleston-Kiawah open water swim is such an inspiring event,” said Jana Chanthabane, event director of the Swim Across America - Charleston-Kiawah
open water swim. “The gathering of so many families and so many individuals who are honoring those who are special to them is incredible—whether they are currently battling it out, are survivors or have lost someone. To hear the stories and to learn about those whom cancer
has touched and to experience that love is just palpable. The feeling of wanting to make a change and to do something for those who have experienced cancer is huge.”
Funds raised by Swim Across America - Charleston-Kiawah supports cancer research and clinical trials at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Funding currently supports both the Ferreira Lab, dedicated to designing and developing engineered immune cell therapies for autoimmune disease, cancer and aging, as well as a pediatric brain cancer grant. To date, Swim Across AmericaCharleston-Kiawah has raised more than $500,000 to fight cancer since its first swim in 2017.
Nationally, Swim Across America has raised more than $100 million for cancer research since its founding in 1987 and has a strong track record of funding transformative research, including clinical trials that led to FDA-approved immunotherapy medicines Keytruda, Opdivo, Yervoy and Tecentriq. The organization was also a grant funder of Memorial Sloan Kettering's landmark clinical trial that achieved a 100% success rate treating advanced rectal cancer patients with dostarlimab.
To learn more about Swim Across America - Charleston-Kiawah or to register to swim, volunteer or donate, visit swimacrossamerica.org/charleston.
A previous Swim Across America event.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SWIM ACROSS AMERICA.
Celebrate Summer
KIAWAH ISLAND GOLF RESORT PLANS SEASONAL EVENTS
Kiawah Island Golf Resort continues its tradition of delivering unforgettable experiences every day of the week, and this summer is no exception. With clear skies, 10 miles of beautiful beaches and a wide array of family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect season for guests and visitors to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and all the resort has to offer.
Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ
Join us on Mondays for Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s longest-running tradition—an authentic Lowcountry oyster roast, featuring slow-cooked barbeque, live music, local crafts and kid’s activities, all set along the scenic Kiawah River.
Sundown Festival
On Wednesday nights, Night Heron Park takes on a carnival atmosphere. Dance to live music, enjoy lawn games, and delight the little ones with inflatable fun. Don’t forget to stop by the photo booth to capture the moments and take home lasting memories.
Live at Loggerhead Grill
Unwind with live music at Loggerhead Grill on Thursday and Friday evenings, where you can enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks in the coastal scenery—the perfect way to start the weekend.
Sounds of Summer
Immerse yourself in the charm of summer evenings on The Grand Lawn of The Sanctuary. Each Saturday evening is filled with live music and stunning views, featuring a diverse lineup of talented musical artists.
For details on availability and additional summer activities at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, visit kiawahresort.com/summer-on-kiawah/
Coexisting Safely GATORWISE
PROJECT LAUNCHES
BY SCDNR For The Island Connection
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources announces the release of GatorWise.
The GatorWise project is intended to promote realistic public perceptions about alligators and to provide guidance on responsible human behavior to minimize conflict between people and alligators.
GatorWise is composed of members representing the state fish and wildlife agencies of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, all states within the range of the American Alligator.
“The introduction of GatorWise is important because information about how humans should behave around alligators is similar across the Southeast, but until now, each state has had to manage their own outreach sites and information,” said Morgan Hart,
SCDNR Alligator Biologist.
“We hope that being able to reference a central place for information will help people and alligators coexist safely”.
Significant human development is projected to continue in Southeastern states in areas of alligator habitat. Alligators are a robust species that can thrive in areas where development occurs, as long as the people in these areas understand how to responsibly coexist with them.
As warm weather returns, GatorWise and SCDNR would like to remind people that it's normal to see alligators moving around and basking in our rivers, ponds and lakes. Alligators are native to South Carolina and are critical to the health and balance of our ecosystems.
Be GatorWise: Admire them from a distance, never feed alligators, and learn more at gatorwise.org.
Ladyfish First
BY CAPT. GEOFF BENNETT
For The Island Connection
Weeks full of sunny weather and warm temperatures have made our fishery come alive. Bait is everywhere, and eager fish are chasing it down. Anglers have a wide array of options now that our seasonal species have arrived to compliment the traditional targets of redfish and trout.
Fishing for redfish remains very productive. Blue crab fished on the bottom is deadly. Remove the shell and legs of a blue crab and cut the body in half. Put a size 3/0 circle hook through the hole where the flipper fin used to be, and make sure the hook point is exposed. No need to hold the rod; instead, put it in a rod holder. Once that rod starts to bend, don't touch it until the drag starts screaming!
As for trout, it is more of the same. Popping corks remain the way to go. Mud minnows and live shrimp are both performing well. Creek shrimp are starting to be large enough to net and use. If little fish keep picking at your live shrimp, switch over to a D.O.A. 3-inch artificial shrimp. Their Glow/Gold Rush Belly color has been quite productive.
Anglers targeting flounder have been reporting good numbers being caught. Work mud minnows or finger mullet along the bottom around structures. Move the bait gently along, and when you think you have a bite, pause a few seconds before setting the hook. We’ve been picking up quite a few flounder with mud minnows under a popping cork as well.
My favorite summertime fish is the ladyfish. With the warmer water temps, ladyfish will fill our waters. These exciting fish will readily eat bait under a popping cork and make your drag zing. Their acrobatic jumps and hard runs make these fish very entertaining. You’ll find them often in some of the same spots that you find trout.
See you on the water!
For the last 16 years, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing, providing light tackle fishing charters. Clients choose from a full menu of options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-3243332, visit his website at charlestoncharterfishing.com, or email him at captain@ charlestoncharterfishing.com.
Listed by Joy Millar
Listed by Jack Wilson
Brandon Rawlston from Columbia, South Carolina.
Ocean Education
AT CAMP ST. CHRISTOPHER, KIDS AND ADULTS LEARN THE WAYS OF THE SEA
BY ELISABETH ST JOHN AND JARED CRAIN For The Island Connection
Located at Camp St. Christopher on Seabrook, the Barrier Island Environmental Education Program is both a relaxing step back in time and a vigorous step forward in hands-on learning. When we arrived, It was siesta time in the herpetarium, and, oblivious to their human visitors, all reptilians and amphibians napped in their hiding places. In the next room, a young alligator stepped up to entertain guests, along with curious fish hoping for a mid-afternoon snack. A smiling burrfish which resembled a puffer fish; a stargazer-fish, so named because his eyes are on the top of his head; and a pinfish followed visitors’ every move.
During the school year, as many as 8,000 elementary, middle and high school students with teachers and chaperones come to the education center for three-day, two-night program sessions. Some of the children may have never seen the ocean or experienced the beach and life that lives only in that ecosystem. Part of the learning experience is to wet their young hands, scoop for invertebrates in a pond or pet one of the turtles or snakes who were napping earlier!
A mile of beachfront on over 300 acres of mostly undisturbed maritime forest and marsh is the playing field for releasing energy and experiencing the environment and its animals and plants up close. Around 15 trained naturalists form the teaching staff, who are skilled in leading specific courses, going on expeditions and instilling an appreciation for how the ocean waves and tides influence local flora, fauna and abiotic intricacies of the ecosystem.
The premier Barrier Island class, called “Let’s Sea,” begins with a mile hike down the intertidal beach and through the maritime boneyard. It then delves into the salt marsh via the marsh trail and ends in a pluff-mud wallow where all can expect a sticky pluff mud bath. Water activities, including kayaking through the tidal creeks or the river, are offered to any guest through the Outdoor Encounters sister program. Popular offerings are seining (dragging a volleyball-like net through the estuary
to catch and release crustaceans, fish, and other marine creatures), paddle trips to Botany Island and observation of the Deveaux Bank bird sanctuary.
The majesty and excitement does not end at dusk. Camp St Christopher is located on the southwest end of Seabrook Island, nestled against the perimeter of the ACE Basin on the North Edisto River. Evening and night walks focus on the sightings and sounds of nocturnal birds and wildlife, owl hoot identification, bioluminescence and stargazing. Housing is provided in the camp’s beachfront cabins or can be found in colorful hammocks stretched between palmetto trees.
The Barrier Environmental Education Program is led by well-versed and enthusiastic director Jared Crain and assistant director, Tyler Harris. Jared and Tyler make sure the programs are following SC state curriculum standards, hire and train the staff of seasonal naturalists and oversee the hundred or so school groups that enter the gates each year. Half of the college graduates return the following season, leaving an opportunity for new environmental, biology or education graduates to join the team. During Earth Day week, everyone is invited to participate in the 5K and an Earth Day Festival. Proceeds support the Barrier Island Scholarship Fund, through which the program can offer scholarships for students and schools, as well as fund local outreach excursions where the naturalists bring animals to local Title I schools.
There are many other elements to the work going on at St. Christopher through the Barrier Island Program, including trail camera research, water quality monitoring, animal husbandry, maintaining native species and removing invasive plants and much more.
The facility is open to groups as a retreat. St. Christopher Camp and Conference Center is owned and operated by the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina, and the Barrier Island Environmental Education operates as a nonprofit entity of St. Christopher. For more information, please contact Jared, at jcrain@stchristopher.org.
ONGOING
around the islands...
WHAT: Charleston City Market Night Market
WHERE: Charleston City Market
WHEN: Each Friday and Saturday night, 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., from Mar. – Dec.
MORE INFO: The Night 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., John’s 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: Spoleto Festival USA
WHERE: Various
WHEN: May 23 to June 8
MORE INFO: Charleston's enchanting backdrop sets the stage for more than 120 unforgettable performances, including six world premieres and two U.S. premieres across opera, theater, music, and dance. Tickets are available for purchase at spoletousa. org or by calling 843-579-3100.
WHAT: Piccolo Spoleto Festival
WHERE: Various
WHEN: May 23 to June 8
MORE INFO: 17 days and nights of admission-free and affordably priced performances, exhibitions, and community celebrations. A full schedule of events and online ticketing at piccolospoleto.com.
WHAT: Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series
WHERE: James Island County Park
WHEN: June 15, July 6 and 27, and Aug. 10.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series returns to James Island County Park this summer. Each race features a 600-yard freshwater swim, then a 12-mile bike ride, and finally a 5K flat run. For more information or to register, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.
WHAT: TOKI Bites & Brews Food Truck Fest
WHERE: Kiawah Island Town Hall
WHEN: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., from April through August
MORE INFO: The Town of Kiawah Island is excited to introduce TOKI Bites and Brews, a brand-new summer food truck festival series designed to bring the community together over great food and good company. This food truck rodeo will transform the Town Hall green space into a lively gathering spot one Friday each month.
SATURDAY, MAY 31
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 (1-3lbs). Don’t worry if you don’t have anything, they will have extras.
TUESDAY, JUNE 3
WHAT: Honoring Mother Emanuel
WHERE: Charleston Library Society, 164 King St, Charleston
WHEN: 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Library Society will host New York Times and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Kevin Sack, in conversation with reporter Carolyn Murray, for the pub-day release of “Mother Emanuel,” a comprehensive history of one of the nation’s most important African American churches and the profound story of courage and grace that came amidst the tragedy of the shootings that took the lives of the church’s charismatic pastor and eight other worshippers on June 17, 2015.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
WHAT: Legends in the South Game
WHERE: Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, Charleston WHEN: 7:05 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston RiverDogs will host their annual Legends in the South softball game featuring former Major League Baseball players. For 2025, the team brings a swath of returners from previous games, local products and the addition of influencers from the GenX Takeover.
SUNDAY, JUNE 8
WHAT: 2nd Sunday on King Street
WHERE: King Street, Charleston
WHEN: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: This free, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Charleston without the usual traffic. Visitors can stroll along the street, enjoying shopping, dining, live entertainment, artisan vendors, and more.
TUESDAY, JUNE 10
WHAT: Best of Broadway “Select Your Seat” Open House Party
WHERE: North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Dr, North Charleston
WHEN: 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Best of Broadway series will host its annual “Select Your Seat” Open House Party. Broadway fans are invited to come out and “select their seats” for the 20252026 season. The first 100 people through the door will receive a free MJ the Musical coffee mug
WHAT: The Charleston Forum
WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St, Charleston
WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Forum is remembering the 10th anniversary of the Mother Emanuel AME tragedy by hosting an event featuring elected officials and community leaders for a powerful conversation on how our community has addressed issues exposed that day and what we have failed to address.
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
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.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
WHAT: Yoga Fest
WHERE: James Island Country Park
WHEN: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: 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. For more information or to register, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Beachwalker Drive Construction Activity on Kiawah
The Town of Kiawah would like to alert community members of upcoming construction activity related to the Ocean Pines development on Beachwalker Drive. Construction activity is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, and you may notice an increase in construction vehicle traffic along Beachwalker Drive. While every impact or disruption cannot be eliminated, to aid in reducing and mitigating the construction impacts and disruption to the area, the Town has issued construction management conditions in conjunction with the encroachment permit for the project. What to Expect:
• Construction vehicles will be utilizing Beachwalker Drive as its access point to the Ocean Pines project site. Construction vehicles are not to access the project site via Southern Pines Lane.
• Project Duration is anticipated to be about 17 months broken into three phases. View approved site plan online.
• Phase 1A: Site Development and building foundations, including site preparation, site grading, sewer, water and stormwater drainage system, and site concrete.
• Phase 1B: Construction of buildings C, D and A, including structure, exteriors, interior and site work.
• Phase 1C: Construction of buildings B, G, F and E, including structure, exteriors, interior, site work.
• Permitted Hours of Construction Activity - Construction is only permitted during approved hours and any deviation from that requires approval from the Town. These hours are 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday. Work is not permitted on Sundays and on and before key holidays.
• Restrictions on Construction Vehicles are in place to avoid staging, parking and
congestion queuing or backup of vehicles within or adjacent to the Beachwalker Drive and the adjacent right-of-way (ROW).
• Clean Up and Maintenance is to occur daily to keep the ROW and immediately adjacent areas free and clear of dirt, mud, debris, gravel, and any other material or obstruction resulting from developer’s construction activities.
• Idling, Parking, Staging, and Traffic Restrictions in place to not impede or obstruct normal ingress or egress of vehicle or pedestrians on as well as no Road Closures or blockage of traffic on any Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day, except with prior approval by the Town.
• Traffic Control Requirements are in place to ensure safety while construction occurs. Area property owners and the community should also be mindful of area construction and adhere to any traffic control measures.
• Right of Way Tree Protection and Mitigation. The property owner shall exercise reasonable care to protect trees and their root zones during construction, including installing temporary barriers if required by Town. The Town may require mitigation or supplemental landscaping as deemed necessary.
• Noise Management: Equipment and activities must comply with Town noise ordinances.
While the Town has outlined several measures to reduce the potential impacts, your attention and cooperation as this project moves forward is greatly appreciated. The Town is committed to ensuring that development proceeds responsibly and with consideration for the community. If you observe construction activity that appears out of line with the Town’s conditions, please report it so the Town can investigate and take appropriate action.
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Commentary: Citizen vs. Deep State
BY ROM REDDY For The Island Connection
My wife Renee and I finally finished our trial in administrative court this week, culminating a long year and a half of litigation initiated by the Department of Environmental Services, joined by a 501(c)(3) taxpayer-subsidized NGO, the Coastal Conservation League and two liberal newspapers — the far-leftleaning State, which acts as a government mouthpiece, and the Post and Courier, with an owner who sits on the board of the Coastal Conservation League.
The week before trial, we terminated the services of our attorneys, who informed me it would cost an additional $200,000 to go to trial in administrative court (no jury), where I was unlikely to prevail, and therefore, I should settle. The easy decision would have been to settle, pay the fine and move on with our lives. However, as you will see below, settling would have a domino effect not just on island residents but on property owners throughout the state. Therefore, in an unprecedented move, Renee and I — who are not lawyers and have never seen the inside of a courtroom (other than in “My Cousin Vinny”) — decided to represent ourselves against the deep state.
Unfortunately, instead of citizens standing together, I was informed that some island residents posted on social media that they were praying we would fail. We can always disagree — it is our right. But I hope we can disagree without wishing harm on people we disagree with and do not
even know. Matthew:18 in Christian scripture goes one step further and suggests you first talk with the person you disagree with. Religion can be unifying if we let it.
Renee and I had three days to prepare before our first day in court. Unfortunately, we had to ignore our child and dog and spend 15-hour days understanding statutes and regulations. Our major weakness was that we did not understand all the complicated procedural issues around entering evidence, questioning witnesses, and so on. We were understandably nervous entering the courtroom that first day and did not know how the judge would react. Luckily for us, Judge Ralph Anderson was very understanding and patient with us as novices and treated both of us with great respect. For that, we are eternally grateful. We walked into the courtroom and were struck by the deep state’s bench, filled to the brim with lawyers for the state and CCL, along with many of their witnesses. On our side: one friend who drove up from Charleston. The trial was scheduled for three days, but DES/CCL took up the entire time with thousands of slides and witnesses. Several slides were apparently sent in by island residents acting as agents for the state. There were also false allegations
Tide Chart
12:07am/12:42pm 1:00am/1:39pm 1:52am/2:36pm 2:42am/3:30pm 3:31am/4:22pm 4:20am/5:11pm 5:08am/5:57pm 5:55am/6:41pm 6:41am/7:24pm 7:26am/8:06pm 8:09am/8:46pm 8:51am/9:26pm 9:31am/10:04pm 10:11am/10:42pm 6:26am/6:28pm 7:19am/7:25pm 8:10am/8:24pm 9:01am/9:24pm 9:48am/10:21pm 10:34am/11:15pm 11:17am 12:06am/11:59pm 12:53am/12:40pm 1:37am/1:21pm 2:19am/2:01pm 3:00am/2:40pm 3:40am/3:20pm 4:20am/4:01pm
— which we had to disprove — submitted by sitting Councilmember Blair Hahn to his contact at the Coastal Conservation League, a radical environmental group that believes all residents on barrier islands should retreat and let water reclaim the land, eventually rendering the islands nonresidential.
Since the trial extended to five days, I will summarize their positions. First, they now claim unlimited jurisdiction behind setback lines and critical lines. This applies not only to oceanfront but also to creekside, marshfront and more. Based on the testimony of their expert — which DES/ CCL agreed with in their closing statement — this theory could theoretically extend to any property, even those not waterfront.
They accused us of egregious violations and of ignoring their orders. One witness said that in her 15 years, she had not seen such a blatant violation of the law. On crossexamination, I asked if, in the last 25 years, anywhere on the South Carolina coast prior to us, she could name a case where jurisdiction had been enforced landward of the state setback line. She could not. In the 2019 Hilton Head seawall case, DES said in a sworn judicial pleading that they did not even have “procedures” to enforce jurisdiction landward of the setback line.
Their new position is that after a major storm, they can inspect the “vegetation line” — even if vegetation was washed away — and declare that area a “beach critical area” under government jurisdiction. That means
only beach-compatible sand can be added. You cannot replace your grass, shrubs, pine straw, fence, play equipment, or even furniture. I asked their expert: If another Hugo came and washed away the soil, covering everything with sand across the road, could they inspect the vegetation line across the street the next day and declare that land under jurisdiction? He said yes. DES and CCL confirmed they agreed with this position. This leads to untethered jurisdiction.
I asked another witness: How can someone buy waterfront property if they can’t rely on the plat and setback lines to know where they can plant a vegetable garden or maintain their yard? The answer: You’d have to contact the department — and the answer could change day by day, storm by storm and property by property.
As mentioned earlier, they used the full three days for their case. At the end of that time, they rested, and it was our turn. There was a one-week break before we resumed. During that week — even though their case was closed — they sent Christopher Stout, chief of the Bureau of Coastal Management, to our home to gather more photos. When court resumed, they tried a procedural move to enter new evidence. That evidence? Pictures of 116 Ocean and 120 Ocean, our neighbors, to suggest further vegetation retreat. What they didn’t disclose? That they had issued a permit to the city to dump Army Corps sand, which covered all (continued on page 11)
Rom Reddy.
vegetation in front of the escarpment. No citizen should face this type of government overreach.
We noticed in The State newspaper that reporter Sammy Fretwell claimed we were only arguing to reduce the fine. That is false. I told the judge I was there to defend the Constitution — to argue that a government agency cannot unilaterally seize private property without compensation while the property owner continues paying taxes to the original line. I told the judge I would agree to pay the full fine — I wasn’t there to work it off. The judge seemed surprised and told the other side to take the deal, as they’d get the full fine if they prevailed. Their response: “We have to talk to our client.” The judge asked, “Client? Who is your client?” No response. They declined the deal.
I asked several times why CCL, a private charity, was assisting a state agency against private citizens. I cited statute 48-39-120, which says the state owns land in public trust below the mean high tide (MHT) line — defined as the line when the property was first developed. That makes sense, since taxes are still paid to that original line. For us, that line is more than 300 feet seaward of our structure.
CCL and DES offered testimony from an island resident, saying he couldn’t ride his bike at high tide and submitted an affidavit from Jimmy Carroll claiming our structure impeded his walks. I reminded the judge that landward of the MHT line at the time of development is legally private and taxable property, and that both the U.S. and South Carolina constitutions prohibit taking it without compensation. Apparently, this was
news to the radicals, who insist they can claim any sandy ground without paying for it — or reducing the taxes.
This isn’t a fight we started, but it’s one we intend to finish. It is the first time this century that a “red state” unelected agency is asserting landward jurisdiction beyond a state-approved setback line, using a vegetation line standard born out of a settlement between CCL and DES in the Hilton Head lawsuit. Under that agreement, CCL dropped its suit in exchange for DES enforcing a new definition of “beach critical.”
This is a fight for all of us. I’m happy to discuss it individually with anyone. Once you see the testimony and evidence, you’ll understand: allowing this precedent will lead to the greatest confiscation of private property in South Carolina history. I’ve heard horror stories from people across the state, and those would fill a book.
Let’s stay united as citizens, defending the supreme law of the land — the great Constitution our founders were prepared to die for. As George Washington said, “Property rights and freedom go hand in hand. You cannot have one without the other.” In these modern times, do we still have the courage to fight for our freedom?
This commentary represents the opinions of Lucky Dog Publishing owner Rom Reddy about what occurred at a public trial where he was a pro se defendant in a civil enforcement. This piece does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the newspaper or its staff. In keeping with our philosophy of publishing all opinions, we welcome yours, which must be limited to 400 words and will be published on a space-available basis.
The Early Bird Sees the Horses
Following a year’s hiatus, the Steeplechase of Charleston will make its triumphant return to Stono Ferry Racetrack on November 9, 2025, with comprehensive track improvements.
Race organizers have implemented a series of significant infrastructure changes to ensure the historic event meets the highest standards for equine and jockey safety.
“We’ve implemented aggressive turf management with new equipment and expertise,” says race director Toby Edwards. “Our investments of soil conditioning (fertilization, etc.) and professional weekly assessments ensure the best racing conditions possible.”
A key innovation for the 2025 event includes advanced monitoring capabilities that provide real-time data on track conditions. “We’ve essentially got someone living right next to the course monitoring rainfall, grass growth—everything,” Edwards explains.
The extensive groundwork and infrastructure improvements being implemented will lessen the impacts that another dry spell would have on the track. This proactive approach represents a meaningful evolution in how the organization prepares and maintains the racing surface.
“Last year’s cancellation was a difficult decision, but it has driven us to create a more resilient, dependable racing environment,” says executive director Chris Zoeller. “We're not just bringing back the Steeplechase of Charleston—we’re bringing it back stronger, with improved infrastructure to support this beloved Charleston tradition regardless of weather challenges.”
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• Large, clean, well-lit, climate controlled facility
• Open to the public, designers, dealers, regular open-house events
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• Centrally located with plenty of parking (two doors down from Ferguson’s Bath/Kitchen & Lighting)
Steeplechase horse racing has been a cherished tradition in the Lowcountry since 1734, and these improvements reflect the organization's commitment to preserving this historic racing legacy for generations to come.
Tickets for the 2025 Steeplechase of Charleston presented by Lexus are now available. An early bird discount of 25% can be applied to General Admission tickets until June 3, using promo code SOCEB25. With upgraded facilities and enhanced track preparations, this year's event promises an unforgettable day of world-class racing, stylish socializing and Lowcountry hospitality.
For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit steeplechaseofcharleston.com or email info@steeplechaseofcharleston.com. The event is organized by Steeplechase of Charleston LLC, a 501c3 nonprofit company owned by The Post and Courier Foundation, with proceeds supporting community journalism in South Carolina. The event continues the Lowcountry's rich equestrian tradition dating back to 1734. For additional information, please contact media@ steeplechaseofcharleston.com.
