Slowing Down Island Time?
KIAWAH CONSIDERS MEASURES TO CONTROL TRAFFIC SPEED
BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection
Driving into Kiawah Island is a relaxing and scenic ride down the Parkway. Surrounded by expansive marsh views, the approach to the first gate is an invitation to tranquility.
One can understand, then, the jolt to that feeling when a leisurely cruise is met with a bright, flashing sign displaying your speed for all to see. Whether it’s a feeling of embarrassment or perhaps pride as you pass your speed on a bright sign, Kiawah Island’s Town Council agrees that the signs are needed to help keep their roadways safe – on the heavily trafficked areas, anyway.
Co-existing with Nature
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At the first Town Council meeting of 2025 on January 7, a robust discussion ensued concerning the decision to approve the purchase of traffic monitoring devices to be strategically placed at different spots along the Kiawah Island
A Different Kind of Growth
KIAWAH RESIDENT WORK WITH ALGAE
BY KRISTIN B. THOMPSON
For The Island Connection
On the doorstep of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, important research is being carried out regarding using green algae to stimulate the growth of soil microorganisms.
Twenty-five members of the Kiawah Island Garden Club assembled on January 14 for a fascinating presentation by Dr. George Taylor, founder and Chief Science Officer of Enlightened Soil Corporation. Dr. Taylor is “one of our own,” so to speak, as he is a longtime Kiawah resident. He is a lifelong gardener, having been introduced to gardening by his grandfather.
Taylor is also one of the founding members of the Sweetgrass Garden Co-op, a nonprofit community garden on Johns Island. In addition to working in the garden, he has participated in several USDA-funded field trials testing organic fertilizer approaches. It was during this work that he was introduced to live green algae as a bio stimulant, and, in 2018, garden trials at Sweetgrass documented its value. His start-up company produces EnSoil Algae, and, in 2024, it was used by 150 farmers in 47 states, as well as countries in Africa, South America and Europe.
While the bio stimulant is
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COYOTE SIGHTINGS ON KIAWAH CREATE CONCERN, PROMPT DISCUSSION
BY THERESA STRATFORD
For The Island Connection
It was summer 2023 when Sullivan’s Island experienced an increase in coyote activity. Small dogs went missing or were visibly attacked by coyotes as helpless pet owners watched. Five incidents of dogs being attacked by coyotes were reported by August that year. It was devastating, sad and downright scary.
Since then, the Town of Sullivan’s Island has taken some action – mostly in the form of education. The education efforts on coyotes for Sullivan’s Island residents and visitors have revolved around the presence of coyotes and what people should do if they see one.
The Town of Kiawah Island addressed the recent coyote concerns they have received from residents at their first Town Council meeting of the year on January 7 of this year.
Mayor Bradley Belt said, “I have directed staff to present a comprehensive plan with coyote management at an upcoming Town Council meeting. It is a complex issue, but there are state regulations on how to deal with coyotes.”
Kiawah Island Town Council Member Lance Spencer said, “I have lived in many different areas, with different animals to deal with. I’ve lived side by side with coyotes, bobcats, scorpions, black bears and polar bears. In my experience, when you try to do something about it, nature wins. In one place I lived, we carried bear spray.
“In July last year, I encountered a coyote near the Ocean Course,” he added. “I had just put my dog in the car 30 seconds before the encounter. I am more worried about how my dog will react to the coyote than how the coyote will react to my dog. I have since taken my dog to training so that I have more control.”
The Town of Sullivan’s Island has extensive information
on its website educating people about coyotes. They contend that coyotes are a part of the ecosystem, and that residents and visitors should learn to heed them, rather than expecting them to be eliminated.
According to the Sullivan’s Island website: Coyotes exist in every county in South Carolina, as well as in 49 of the 50 states. The peak in reported coyote complaints often occurs in mid-summer and fall as young coyotes disperse from their home ranges and establish new territories. Coyotes are most active at night and in the early morning hours during hot summer weather. They are opportunistic feeders, preying upon rabbits, rodents and other small mammals, supporting their diet with berries, insects and carrion.
On occasion, coyotes will prey on domestic pets. Pet predation is usually due to the territorial nature of the coyote and lack of an alternative prey base in suburban areas. Coyotes are very adaptable and can do well in urban areas. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has indicated that recent research has demonstrated that coyotes are compensatory breeders, meaning that they increase reproduction and immigration in response to humaninduced killing of coyotes.
“Bottom line: There are things people can do,” Spencer said. “We need to take personal responsibility.”
The Town of Sullivan’s Island discourages people from having outdoor cats and to take extra precautions with pets at night and in the early morning hours. They even published a Town of Sullivan’s Island Coyote Management Plan, which outlines the education program, the rights of property owners, coyote activity and public safety information, at sullivansisland.sc.gov/residents/ wildlife-coyote-information.
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Advertising advertising@mylonews.com 267-225-0192
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Traffic Speed
(continued from page 1)
Parkway and Beachwalker Drive.
The traffic monitoring devices would include speed projection signs, portable digital signage, and speed tracking equipment. The equipment would be funded partly by SATAX funds for a little over $25,000. The rest of the money, roughly $12,000, would come from the Town’s general fund.
The speed projection signage would project and flash a driver’s speed as they pass by it. The portable signage would provide various messages to drivers, such as construction ahead or events taking place that may cause traffic. The speed tracking equipment are boxes that would be placed along the roads to record traffic data, like volume and speed of traffic.
Town Council Member Luke Farrell pointed out that the signs would be solar-powered, aligning with the Town’s Kiawah Goes Green initiative. As the Ways and Means point person, Farrell announced to Council that they recommended approval of the purchasing of the speed regulatory equipment for the purpose of public safety.
Although speed tracking signs have been seen on the island in the past, Mayor Bradley Belt commented that those were just temporary, and that the new signs would be permanent. He added that the temporary signs only gave data for a short period of time, and now they could track the traffic patterns year-round.
especially at the spots proposed for the signs.
CONTRIBUTORS
Theresa Stratford
Kristin B. Thompson
Susan Coomer
Anne R. Bavier
Bonnie Younginer Alan Armstrong
Future
Council Member Russell Berner expressed concern about whether this planned purchasing was aligning with the Town’s policy of announcing such purchases on the Town’s website at least five days prior to the purchase. He added that he didn’t see any information at this current time about the purchase posted online.
Berner also added that he didn’t think the speed regulations worked well, since many people go through them and then “floor it,” he said.
Council Member Lance Spencer said he agreed that many people would floor it after going through a speed projecting sign, but that some people would be aware of their speed after going through it and actually slow down. He said that enforcement was definitely the key. Spencer also said that even if people just slowed down for a brief period, it was better than not slowing down at all,
Belt said, “Unfortunately, the Town has no jurisdiction over the speed. We do have plans to speak to the sheriff’s office about that, but right now, we cannot enforce speed limits. I think Betsy Kerrison Parkway is probably more of an issue than Kiawah Island Parkway or Beachwalker Drive.”
Still, Berner contended that there
Algae (continued from page 1)
not a fertilizer, stimulating natural processes allows reduction or elimination of synthetic chemical fertilizers while promoting soil fertility. More than 90% of growers who have field tested it have purchased EnSoil Algae for use in subsequent years.
Green algae are one of many types of algae, which in general are aquatic organisms that contain chlorophyll but that lack true stems, roots and leaves. They were the original bio stimulants and can provide the full range of bio stimulant benefits. These benefits include increased plant growth and yield for
Civic Calen dar
TOWN OF KIAWAH
Arts & Cultural Event Council -
Planning Session
Tuesday, January 28, 9 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Ways & Means Committee
Tuesday, February 4, 10 a.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, February 4, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Planning Commission
Wednesday, February 5, 2 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
Environmental Committee
Wednesday, February 12, 1 p.m.
Kiawah Island Town Hall
TOWN OF SEABROOK
Environment and Wildlife Committee
Thursday, February 13, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Town Council - Special Called Meeting
Thursday, February 13, 11 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Public Safety Committee Meeting
Tuesday, February 18, 10 a.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Town Council
Tuesday, February 25, 2:30 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
Board of Zoning Appeals
Wednesday, February 26, 1 p.m.
Seabrook Town Hall
were some problems with the purchasing of these devices unless certain protocols were confirmed, like displaying the procurement on the Town’s website.
Without that confirmation, Berner said he could not vote in favor of the purchases. However, the other Council members voted to approve the purchasing of the traffic devices, subject to legal advice on providing public notice.
a wide variety of crops, reduced need for chemical fertilizer, increased plant resistance to stress caused by drought and irrigation salinity, among others.
After the interesting presentation, Dr. Taylor took the group on a tour of his local lab. The company also has a large facility in North Charleston and in Florida. In his non-gardening life, Dr. Taylor was a professor of cardiology at the Medical University of South Carolina. He has had experience as a clinical researcher and has observed that the design of research trials in medicine and agriculture is remarkably similar.
Seabrook Island Village expands service area and links to Kiawah River Estates
BY SUSAN COOMER AND ANNE R. BAVIER
Seabrook Island Village (SIV) proudly announced that Kiawah River Estates (KRE) joined the organization in January 2025. KRE Village Program now is a full member of the Village-to-Village National Network. SIV President John Cheney praised residents of KRE in their diligence and dedication to learn about the National Village movement. Through numerous open discussions and systematic data collection, KRE residents articulated their needs and desires to enhance the quality of life within KRE.
Volunteers Betsy Curtin and Karen Kadec led the efforts to survey and meet with KRE residents, concerning the forming of a village.
“The KRE is deeply appreciative of the time, effort and kindness offered by SIV in opening its organization to another community,” Curtin said. Karen Kadlec added that she is looking forward to making these plans a reality in early 2025.
Current President John Cheney joined Founding SIV President Sally Kimball, Betsy Curtin and Kadlec to explore issues and strategies relating to starting a village. SIV leaders openly shared their experiences, including
lessons learned. With thoughtful consultation from other Villages nationally, it became clear that KRE could become an operating unit of SIV and take full advantage of SIV systems and programs to focus on the distinctive KRE community.
In linking SIV Village and KRE Village together, two KRE volunteers will join the SIV Board of Directors, one of whom will chair the KRE Village Committee, thus fully integrating the KRE Village Program into SIV operations. The SIV chair of volunteers, Lucy Walton, notes that volunteers will serve only the community in which they reside.
Seabrook Island Village, Neighbors helping Neighbors was organized and approved as a federally recognized nonprofit organization in 2019. SIV provides services to Seabrook Island residents and now KRE residents with the goal of helping them remain independent at home as long as it is safe to do so. SIV also organizes and sponsors general educational workshops and programs focusing on health and wellness. Individuals who would like to receive services, volunteer or both can find details online at Seabrookislandvillage.org or leave a message at 843-212-7181.
Residential Cleaning Services
BY TERRI BURKE For
The Kiawah Women’s Foundation’s (KWF) annual fundraiser starts February 1 and continues through March 1. KWF reaches out to the community for financial support just once a year with the KWF’s Backpack Buddies Challenge.
Working in partnership with Angel Oak Elementary and Haut Gap Middle Schools on Johns Island as well as Frierson Elementary on Wadmalaw Island, KWF has served local children and their families in the Lowcountry since 2013. We recently expanded our mission to include Minnie Hughes Elementary School on Yonges Island. With 94% of its pupils designated as living in poverty, our services are a welcome new resource for this underserved Lowcountry community.
Children from families with incomes below the poverty level receive weekday breakfasts and lunches from our partner schools. Our flagship Backpack Buddies program extends that support when the school day ends. Each week during the school year, KWF volunteers pack and deliver up to 350 bags, each containing 12 shelf-stable food items that children can prepare for themselves, whether after school or over the weekend.
KWF just finished packing 120 holiday gift bags for local teens who have aged out of other holiday gift programs. We continue to support student hygiene needs by stocking a hygiene closet with personal necessities at the high school and middle school, as well as sending home dental kits to the elementary and middle school students who receive our weekly food bags.
Based on feedback from school staff, we’re supporting new initiatives: a uniform project, providing school uniforms and clothing for students whose families struggle to afford required clothing; clothing closets for children who might need a change of clothing throughout the day; and a summer journal project to support elementary and middle school students in case-managed programs.
Overall inflation and skyrocketing food costs are some of the many strains on the struggling families we serve. Sponsoring a child for the school year costs $250. Please consider making a donation; any amount helps support our programs. Donations can be made on the KWF website at Kiawahwomensfoundation.org or by check payable to Kiawah Women’s Foundation, 130 Gardeners Circle, PMB I, Johns Island, SC 29455. All donations are tax deductible.
Blending Art and Science
FEBRUARY ARTIST OF THE MONTH JOSE RAFOLS
BY BONNIE YOUNGINER For The Island Connection
Of Catalan and Cuban ancestry, Jose Rafols lived and studied in Barcelona, Spain through the 1960s. In this modernista city, he immersed himself in what would become his lifelong love affair with the visual arts by visiting art museums and salons which were exhibiting the work of local and international painters. At that time, Barcelona’s prominence in the nascent Bauhaus, Nouveau and Surrealist movements provided him with much inspiration.
Rafols emigrated to the United States and obtained a PhD in neuroscience at the University of Kansas. Upon completion of his degree, he began a 48-year-long career in neurotrauma and stroke research.
He also taught neuroscience to medical students at Wayne State University in Detroit. At Wayne, Rafols held the position of professor of anatomy and neurobiology until his retirement in 2016.
During his long scientific career, Rafols published numerous line drawings of brain cells, using integrated microscopic, camera lucida and computerized techniques. A few years before retirement, he began to understand the complexities of color,
Nominations needed for 13th annual Angel Oak Award
BY ALAN ARMSTRONG For The Island Connection
The Kiawah-Seabrook Exchange Club is soliciting nominations for its 13th Angel Oak Award. The annual award was first presented in 2012 and recognizes a person who performs volunteer services which contribute significantly to the people and/or quality of life of Wadmalaw, Johns, Kiawah and/ or Seabrook Island.
The award is named after the historic live oak tree on Johns Island, which represents the people, culture and natural environment of the islands. The 2023 recipient was Dr. Louise Baucom, who was recognized for her work with the Seabrook Island Hunger Awareness Foundation.
The recipient need not live on the aforementioned islands, but the service noted for the award must have been
performed on the islands. The recipient will be recognized at a banquet on May 21 and receive an honorarium of $5,000, which he/she can designate for assignment to a charitable organization serving the islands.
The recipient will also receive a memento and have his/her name inscribed on the Angel Oak Trophy, which is permanently displayed.
The Exchange Club is seeking nominations from the public. The deadline for nominations is February 28. Nomination information and forms can be found on the KiawahSeabrook Exchange Club website, at ks-exchangeclub.com. Please contact Alan Armstrong at alan9631@comcast. net or 410-274-7545 if you have any questions.
and mountain landscapes and local flora and fauna to an occasional portrait done in naturalist/impressionistic styles.
An Artist of the Month reception will be held for Jose Rafols on Tuesday, February 4 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Lake House. Please attend to meet Rafols and experience his beautiful artwork.
values and light intensity needed in depicting perspective and therefore successful painting. This process was largely facilitated through his participation in workshops and demonstrations and critiques in artist guilds.
Today, Rafols’ preferred mediums are oils and acrylics, and the subject matter for his painting is eclectic, ranging from Lowcountry
Jose Rafols.
Seabrook Island Village Winter Mahjong Day
Date: Thursday February 20
Time: 10 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.
Place: The Seabrook Island Club, Atlantic Room Cost: $80 ($40 goes to SIV)
Registration forms can be found at the Lake House, the Racquet Club and at the Kiawah Estates clubhouse. This event is open to all on Johns Island. We hope you can join us for a fun day supporting SIV neighbors helping neighbors.
Any questions, call Susan Coomer at 843-901-0447, or email Seabrksue@att.net.
Charleston Symphony receives award from National Endowment for the Arts
The Charleston Symphony (CSO) announced it has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for a Grants for Arts Projects award of $30,000. This grant will support the Charleston Symphony Inclusion Fellowship program. The NEA awards 1,127 Grants for Arts Projects awards nationwide, totaling more than $31.8 million as part of the recent announcement of fiscal year 2025 grants.
"We are deeply honored to receive support from the NEA for our Fellowship program," said Michael Smith, CEO of the Charleston Symphony. "This grant will empower us to continue breaking down barriers, creating opportunities and ensuring that the future of classical music is more accessible to everyone."
of the communities we serve. Established in 2021, the fellowship was designed to create meaningful opportunities for up to seven talented individuals who may have experienced limited access to these fields due to systemic barriers such as race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status.
The Charleston Symphony Inclusion Fellowship (CSIF) is a professional development and mentorship program rooted in the belief that the future of classical music and arts administration should reflect the richness and diversity
Seabrook Island
FEATURED LISTINGS
CSIF is a two-year intensive program, offering immersive tracks in orchestral performance and executive management. Along with acclaimed performance opportunities with the Charleston Symphony on the stage and in the community, Fellows participate in professional development and enrichment workshops such as inclusive leadership, public speaking, health and wellness and career advancement. The program is dedicated to promoting artistic and personal growth, fostering collaboration and celebrating the unique perspectives, skills, and contributions of each Fellow while helping to shape a more accessible and inclusive future for symphonic music and arts administration.
It’s that time again. Join us for a day of MahJong, friends, lunch and prizes.
around the islands...
ONGOING
WHAT: Museum Mile Month
WHERE: Various
WHEN: Entire month of January
MORE INFO: With the Museum Mile Month pass, visitors gain access to a series of historic sites and cultural organizations along Meeting Street. For this year’s participating organizations and more info, visit charlestonsmuseummile.org.
WHAT: BEEPLE
WHERE: Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St, Charleston WHEN: Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Gibbes Museum will feature Beeple's latest kinetic sculptures. Beeple, a trailblazer in digital art, gained worldwide recognition. His work has been showcased in several prestigious museums.
WHAT: Sea Island Farmers Market
WHERE: 2024 Academy Rd., John’s Island WHEN: 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 farmfresh goodies and unique finds.
WHAT: Weekend Wine-Down
WHERE: Deep Water Vineyard, Wadmalaw Island WHEN: Saturdays, 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.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
WHAT: The Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Beatles’ ‘Abbey Road’ WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St, Charleston WHEN: 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates The Beatles’ “Abbey Road” album live in its entirety—note for note, sound for sound—plus a full set of greatest hits from the evening’s artiStreet
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
WHAT: Outdoor Barre Workout at Andell Inn WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 11:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: A fun outdoor barre workout, 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 and watching gators swim in the pond. Bring a mat and a set of light weights (1-3lbs). Don’t worry if you don’t have anything, organizers will have extras.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31
WHAT: 21st Annual Hot Stove Banquet with Bo Jackson WHERE: Gaillard Center, Downtown Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston RiverDogs will host their 21st Annual Hot Stove Banquet with former MLB and NFL star Bo Jackson as the keynote speaker. Vincent “Bo” Jackson is widely considered to be one of the greatest athletes of all time. The event will open with a cocktail hour and silent auction, and a program including a conversation with Jackson, will close the evening. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children�s Hospital.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
WHAT: SCMLE Raffle & Mixer
WHERE: Estuary Beans & Barley, Johns Island WHEN: 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: The South Carolina Multilingual Learner Educator Network, a 501c3 nonprofit benefiting teachers and learners across the state, invites the public to
Estuary Beans & Barley for beverages, raffle items, good DJ vibes, and more. This event has no entry fee. For more information, visit scmle.org.
WHAT: Edwin McCain
WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John Street
WHEN: 8 p.m.
MORE INFO: From Charleston, Edwin McCain is going on over 30 years of hits and worldwide touring. He has been called a “street corner prophet” by USA Today, an “aching tenor” by Slate Magazine, and a “great American romantic” by the New York Times.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2
WHAT: Candlelight Vigil to remember Caitlyn the Dog
WHERE: Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston WHEN: 5:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Animal Society invites the community to attend a Candlelight Vigil to remember Caitlyn the Dog and all victims of animal cruelty.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4
WHAT: A Foxy Feast
WHERE: By The Way, 45 ½ Spring Street, Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: A collaboration dinner event between By The Way and Graft Wine Shop. Hosted by "Southern Charm’s" Austen Kroll and Craig Conover, guests can enjoy a four-course meal prepared by Executive Chef Marcus Shell and Uptown Hospitality Group Partner Alec Gropman. Proceeds from the ticket sales will benefit the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and support those impacted by the recent wildfires in California.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7
WHAT: Author Luncheon with Signe Pike and Victoria Benton Frank WHERE: Halls Signature Events, 5 Faber Street, Charleston WHEN: Noon
MORE INFO: Join Blue Bicycle Books for an author luncheon with Signe Pike, best-selling author of “The Lost Queen” series. Pike will be discussing the latest in the series, “The Shadowed Land,””in conversation with Victoria Benton Frank. Tickets are $42 for the three-course lunch.
WHAT: Atlanta Rhythm Section
WHERE: West Beach Conference Center WHEN: 7:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Formed from the cream of Atlanta’s studio musicians, the Atlanta Rhythm Section came together in 1970, with “So Into You” becoming their breakthrough single. After an extended break, the band got back together in the mid‘90s and have entertained audiences all over the world with their many Top 10 hits.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
WHAT: 10th Annual Building Healthy Communities 5KRun/Walk & Wellness Expo WHERE: Hampton Park, 30 Mary Murray Drive, Charleston WHEN: 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: The 10th Annual Building Healthy Communities 5KRun/Walk & Wellness Expo also includes an after-party, award ceremony, and raffle. All proceeds for the event will benefit the MUSC Children’s Health Wellness Works Program.
WHAT: Save the Light Half Marathon and 5K
WHERE: Folly Beach
WHEN: 8 a.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission will once again partner with Save the Light to host their annual half marathon and 5K on Folly Beach. This race supports the preservation of the Morris Island Lighthouse by Save the Light, a grassroots non-profit organization formed in 2000 to save the lighthouse from being lost to the sea. Both the half marathon and 5K races are USATF-certified and start and finish near the Folly Beach Pier.
Celebrating Community Support Every Page Now Supports Our People!
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Partners for Sustaining Free Press on Kiawah Island & Seabrook Island!
e are thrilled to share an exciting update with our cherished community. Starting January 2025, Lucky Dog Publishing will embark on a new chapter where all profits from our free Island Connection community papers will be reinvested right back into Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island. This initiative is our way of saying thank you and giving back to the community that has supported us tirelessly.
Our papers have always been a staple of local news and events, freely accessible to everyone on the islands, and it is with your continuous support that we can keep this tradition alive. As we move forward, the funds generated will be directed towards enhancing community life even further. This includes event sponsorships, support for our heroic first responders, and contributions to local nonprofits and charitable organizations that make a difference every day.
To ensure these funds are used effectively, we are assembling a dedicated board tasked with overseeing allocations, guaranteeing that every dollar is spent in a way that enriches our community. By advertising with us, you’re not just reaching thousands of readers; you’re making a tangible impact on the lives of all island residents.
Thank you for believing in our mission to maintain free access to local news and for helping us turn every advertisement into a step towards community enrichment. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, making Kiawah Island & Seabrook Island not just places to live, but places to thrive. Together, we keep the community informed and supported—because local news matters, and so does our community.
Bishop Gadsden named one of Best in Wellness
Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Retirement Community announced its recognition as North America's #16 senior living communities in the prestigious Beacon NuStep Wellness Awards by the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) and NuStep. This honor showcases Bishop Gadsden's unwavering commitment to promoting wellness, health and extraordinary living for all residents.
The Beacon Award celebrates organizations that cultivate an environment where wellness thrives and seniors live active, engaged lifestyles supported by their community. It awards the top 25 senior living communities for pioneering the most effective strategies, staffing, environments, programs and philosophies in nurturing a culture of wellness.
“Bishop Gadsden envisions the wellness center as a space of positivity,
encouragement and discovery – fostering a culture where residents and team members feel empowered to embrace activities that align with their lifestyles while enhancing their health. This supportive environment is a testament to the exceptional efforts of our wellness team,” said wellness manager
Nathan Calhoun.
“Bishop Gadsden’s investment in wellness reflects our commitment to empowering residents and team members to pursue personalized healthy living,” added Aaron Roop, senior vice president.
“The Beacon NuStep Wellness Award honors senior living organizations excelling in holistic wellness. Celebrating this recognition, we remain dedicated to expanding opportunities and setting a new standard for wellness through planned renovations and ongoing support of our community members.”
An Earful of Information
SIV HOSTS WORKSHOP ON HEARING LOSS
Seabrook Island Village (SIV) is hosting a workshop on hearing and hearing loss. The program, in conjunction with the 2025 theme of Choices for Better Health, will be held on Monday, March 3, from 1:30 until 3 p.m. in Live Oak Hall at the Lake House.
SIV invites all area residents to attend free of charge. Register for this event at the SIV website, SeabrookIslandVillage. org. Workshop presenter Dr. Lauren Costello is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Audiology from the Medical University of South Carolina in the Department of Otolaryngology.
During this presentation, Dr. Costello will discuss the signs of hearing loss,
when and where to have a hearing test, the importance of diagnosing hearing loss and the selection and use of hearing aids. Attendees will be encouraged to ask questions, and time will be provided for demonstrations of various hearing aids. We look forward to seeing you at this informative and educational program. Please register.
Seabrook Island Village, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, is a local not for profit organization dedicated to assisting residents to stay in their homes, maintain their independence and remain active in the community, as long as it is safe to do so. See our website for details or to volunteer. All are welcome.
4:47am/4:49pm 5:39am/5:41pm 6:29am/6:30pm 7:15am/7:17pm 7:58am/8:02pm 8:41am/8:48pm 9:23am/9:34pm 10:07am/10:23pm 10:52am/ 11:14pm 11:42am 12:10am/12:37pm 1:12am/1:39pm 2:19am/2:46pm 3:28am/3:54pm 10:59am/10:48pm 11:49am/11:41pm 12:36pm 12:30am/1:21pm 1:18am/2:04pm 2:06am/2:47pm 2:53am/3:30pm 3:42am/4:14pm 4:34am/5:00pm 5:29am/5:50pm 6:29am/6:44pm 7:35am/7:43pm 8:44am/8:48pm 9:52am/9:53pm
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