IC Sept. 5, 2025 by luckydognews

Could CARTA one day service freshfields village?

BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection

Even though Kiawah Island is not serviced by the public transportation bus system, CARTA, the Kiawah Island Town Council approved the budget for the area’s service.

The Sea Islands, in general, are excluded from service by CARTA, since Johns Island and Seabrook Island also do not benefit from the public transportation system.

However, after much discussion and consideration of voting against the budget or tabling the issue to a future meeting, the Kiawah Island Town Council concluded that denying support would send the wrong message since they would like service at some point in the future.

Charleston County requires that CARTA go to every municipality in the area and receive approval of its

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There’s a lot of noise about Kiawah’s revised noise ordinance

BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection

There was quite a bit of noise about updating the Town of Kiawah Island’s noise ordinance at the August 5 Town Council meeting. For an hour, Town Council members discussed issues that the residents of Kiawah Island face in regards to noise and some possible ways to remedy the problems.

Mayor Bradley Belt said that the Town’s current noise ordinance was brought up by a citizen recently when they complained about some construction work occurring at Ocean Pines.

Belt decided to review the Town’s noise ordinance after the complaint was made, and he said he found many discrepancies in the way it was worded.

“It is a bit of a hot mess in terms of how it was drafted,” he said.

He noted that most of the language was pulled from the Town of Mount Pleasant’s noise ordinance from about four or five years ago. (Continued on page 4)

Rodent poison still found in island bobcats

BY THERESA STRATFORD For The Island Connection

Mayor Bradley Belt spoke about an “unfortunate incident” during the August 5 Kiawah Island Town Council meeting.

He said, “I’m not sure if this is publicly known, but we had an unfortunate incident concerning a bobcat. This was actually a little while ago now, but the bobcat was killed by blunt force trauma. Probably hit by a car, although the bobcat somehow managed to make it to Captain Sams Spit. The disconcerting thing was that we sent off samples for necropsy, and the results showed very high levels of SGAs.”

SGAs, or second-generation anticoagulants, are the chemicals in rodenticides that were found to be the primary contributing factor for at least seven bobcat deaths during 2019-2020. Biologists estimated that Kiawah’s bobcat population declined from a historic population of 30 to 35 to less than 10 during this period.

After the successful implementation of the Bobcat Guardian Pledge program in 2020, bobcat numbers stabilized and started to increase. The Bobcat Guardian program is a community-wide pledge to participate in a commitment to banning the use of SGAs on individual properties. The Town asks that residents pledge to either tell their pest control provider: “I do not authorize the use of SGA rodenticides (Brodifacoum, Bromadiolone, Difenacoum and Difethialone) on my property and I want you to use alternative methods.” Or, they can pledge, “I personally commit not to use the above products on my property.”

Although the pledge was successful, bobcat numbers are still decreasing at a rapid pace.

Clemson Extension, a state regulatory agency of SGAs, is working to ban or restrict rodenticide chemicals for use with pest control companies that are not licensed. That means that the chemical, which has been linked to killing the bobcat population, would not be sold in stores and could not be accessed by anyone without a license to manage the rodent population.

Currently, state law will not allow municipalities to ban the chemical from pest control used within their jurisdictions.

“We are hopeful that we can get the state to reconsider, and we can therefore take some positive steps forward in strengthening regulation,” Belt said.

He added that a few of the regime councils on Kiawah Island have asked if they could ban the chemical. However, these regimes wouldn’t have the ability to monitor the bait traps that are put down.

Kiawah Island’s Town Biologist Jim Jordan said that most of the time, the poison isn’t labeled in any way. “The easiest way is to request records from the pest control companies on what they are applying,” he said.

Belt concluded that they will talk about this situation in a senior staff meeting soon. “Let’s try to figure out a way to move forward and get cooperation from the regimes. I think that would go a long way in addressing the bobcat problem,” he said.

Photo courtesy of Kiawah Island.

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PUBLISHED BY Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837

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CARTA

Continued from page 1

budget. According to a representative with CARTA, every municipality has approved the budget so far.

Kiawah Island Mayor Bradley Belt asked what would happen if they didn’t approve the budget until service was granted along Maybank Highway and up to Freshfields Village at least once a day.

The Director of Public Safety Craig Harris said that every municipality has approved it, so they don’t know what the implications might be if Kiawah were to vote against it. Charleston County Council has approved the budget, as well.

Belt added that he realizes that having the CARTA service isn’t as much of an issue for the residents, but more so for the workforce. The representative from CARTA said that they will be undergoing a comprehensive review of the service as part of the budget for 2025/2026.

Harris would be able to represent Kiawah Island as a part of that study. Belt added that he realizes that Kiawah Island has always been looked at as having insufficient demand. However, he would like to see service on Johns Island. He said he has spoken to some City Council members who are pushing to have the service present on Maybank Highway.

Kiawah Island Town Council Member Russell Berner said that he can’t approve this budget since he had approved it in the past with the hope of service to Johns Island and Freshfields

Town of Kiawah Island

Ways & Means Committee

Tuesday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall

Town Council

Tuesday, Sept. 9, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall

Planning Commission

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall

Environmental Committee

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 1 p.m.

Kiawah Island Town Hall

Resiliency Committee

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 1 p.m.

Virtual

Village, but that it has never come to fruition.

Kiawah Island Council Member Lance Spencer said, “Service out here isn’t even a dream right now. They are addressing more pressing and urgent matters.”

Harris warned, “I think voting against the budget is going to put a lot of attention on Kiawah Island, and I don’t think this will be a positive thing.”

He added that this decision should be more about the budget and not the service, but that if it is a service issue, they could have a sit-down talk with CARTA representatives and get the full scope of their objectives for the next couple of years.

Belt said, “CARTA may very well be doing the best allocation of the dollars available relative to where the areas of greatest need are.”

It was Kiawah Island Council Member Madeleine Kaye who came in with the voice of reason. She said, “Stepping

Town of Seabrook

Planning Commission

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 1:30 p.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Environment & Wildlife Committee

Thursday, Sept. 11, 10 a.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Public Safety Committee

Tuesday, Sept. 16, 10 a.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Utility Commission

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 8:30 a.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

Community Promotion & Engagement Committee

Thursday, Sept. 18, 1 p.m.

Seabrook Town Hall

back on this one and looking at it very simply from a needs perspective. I think if Kiawah Island has transportation needs, it’s a wealthy enough community within a wealthy enough resort to handle those vis-à-vis other communities in Charleston County. I don’t see any really good, solid reason to delay this process for CARTA.”

She reiterated that Kiawah has more resources to accommodate the needs of public transportation for workers and that holding up the process for CARTA is not worth doing.

Spencer concluded that it would be important to set up a meeting with leaders at CARTA and the city Council to talk about service options for Johns Island and Freshfields Village.

Belt said, “First and foremost, let’s be supportive of getting service on central Johns Island. We can lend our support on that.”

The motion to approve the budget for CARTA was approved by the Kiawah Island Town Council.

K iawah iSland Town h all 4475 Betsy Kerrison Parkway Kiawah Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9166

SeabrooK iSland Town h all 2001 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, S.C. 29455 843-768-9121 lmanning@townofseabrookisland.org

JohnS iSland c ouncil

Meetings are held at the Berkeley Electric Co-op located at 3351 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, S.C. 29455

Chairman Chris Cannon: 843-343-5113

charle STon c oun T y c ouncil 4045 Bridge View Drive N. Charleston, S.C. 29405 843-958-4700

ciT y of charle STon 75 Calhoun St. Charleston, S.C. 29401 843-724-3745

Photos by Theresa Stratford.

Development updates for the Sea Islands

BY LEAH BURRIS For The Island Connection

It’s clear from all the development around town that Kiawah and the broader Charleston area are still highly in demand, attracting new residents and businesses at an impressive pace. This sustained interest is driving significant changes to the landscape and infrastructure of our community.

Below, we look at some of the key developments that impact KICA members the most, both on Kiawah Island itself and in the rapidly growing Johns Island area. Understanding these changes is crucial for KICA members to stay informed about the evolving environment around their homes and investments.

Night Heron Park Activity Center

Kiawah’s Night Heron Park, Sea Forest Drive

Anticipated Opening: Fall 2025

Part of the resort’s island-wide expansion that added a collection of new resort buildings and improvements, construction is well underway on the new Activities Center at Night Heron Park. The center will feature a new home for the Nature and Arts Centers, as well as a restaurant and pub, a game center, golf simulators, bowling lanes and more.

Ocean Pines

Kiawah’s West Beach, Ocean Pines Lane

Anticipated Opening: Early 2027

Ocean Pines, the residential community closest to Beachwalker County Park, is under construction now. The project broke ground in July on the

first three of seven buildings, which will eventually house 69 units.

Seafields

200 Farm Lake View Road

Anticipated Opening: Late 2025

Seafields, a 62+ Life Plan community managed by Bishop Gadsden and located adjacent to Freshfields Village, is currently under construction. The 106-residence building will offer independent and assisted living options. The website features a live construction camera, allowing you to watch the progress in real-time. Seafields is expected to open later this year.

MUSC Health Kiawah Partners Pavilion

1857 Seabrook

Island Road

Anticipated Opening: December 2025

Access to nearby health facilities has been a significant concern for members, given Kiawah’s remote location. The MUSC Health Kiawah Partners Pavilion next to Seafields will help meet the demands of the growing community with its 12,056-square-foot facility, which includes an emergency room, primary care and outpatient services. Construction is nearly complete, and the facility is slated for completion in late 2025. In August, Dr. Sai Joy, MUSC Charleston Division CEO, was quoted as saying, “We are definitely on track from a timing standpoint to see our first patient before the end of the year.”

South Island Market

Betsy Kerrison/Bohicket Road and River Road Intersection

Ground Clearing Underway; Planned Development Approved in 1985

Signs went up recently for South Island Market at the intersection of Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Bohicket Road and River Road. A planned development that was initially approved in 1985, according to the Johns Island Advocate, the development includes 47 acres and permits 101 residential units and 128,300 sq-ft of commercial space spread over seven parcels.

Orange Hill

Construction Phase: Approval of Development Agreement Pending

Orange Hill will be a golf community set between River and Bohicket Roads on the way to Kiawah. Originally approved by Charleston County Council in 2002, the current development plan reduces the number of dwelling units from 181 to 120 single-family detached dwelling units and moves the entry to River Road from Bohicket Road. The plan also includes 17,500 square feet of Gross Leasable Area for the Golf Course Accessory Uses and the Farmer’s Market and Restaurant, golf course, wastewater treatment plant, single preservation tract with 61 tenants in common and approximately 800 acres of recreational and natural areas.

(Continued on page 10)

Continued from page 1

He instructed the Town Attorney to “clean up” the language in the ordinance so that it would read more streamlined.

One of the major issues is with the decibel levels regarding the activities that can take place, the duration, and at what times of day. For example, activities like leaf blowing, music for events and construction.

Town Council members posed many questions about construction activity and golf course maintenance, which Kiawah Island Golf Resort mostly handles.

Town Council Member Madeleine Kaye asked specifically if the Resort was OK with the restrictions being recommended. She also asked how the noise would be enforced.

Town Council Member Lance Spencer pointed out that the decibel level wasn’t an issue for very short periods of time. He suggested that language should be included in the ordinance on prolonged noise at high decibels.

Belt mentioned that the two-cycle gas-powered leaf blowers are a problem. “So many jurisdictions around the country have banned them altogether or at least restricted their use. Our ordinance would not ban them completely, but perhaps restrict their use.”

He also brought up what Hilton Head Island

is doing with pieces of equipment that are considered loud. “They have a maximum noise rating associated with certain pieces of equipment that, at the time I looked at their ordinance, said 75 decibels or less.” He added that they transitioned to a lower decibel level in January.

The discussion was also robust about the time of day for powered equipment to start, especially for landscapers. The consensus was not before 7 a.m.

The issue of noise being subjective also came up. “Some people’s idea of a nuisance is not somebody else’s idea,” Belt explained.

This led to a discussion about golf course landscaping. Kiawah Island Town Council Member Luke Farrell said that he lives on the golf course, and he understands that they would need to start at 6:30 a.m. However, Kiawah Island Town Council Member Russell Berner said that he isn’t against them starting at 6:30 a.m. to get the golf courses ready, but that he can understand that would be considered a nuisance.

The President of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Roger Warren, was at the meeting. He said he is fully cognizant that people do not want noise in the early morning, but that clearly a large number of people play on the golf courses, and that the work has to be done before the courses get busy with people.

“People are teeing off at 7:30 a.m. or 8 a.m.,” Warren said. “They are never going to see anybody or hear anybody mowing and so forth. It isn’t every day. The 6:30 a.m. time was granted with the full understanding of what we are trying

to do. The golf course was there first and the houses second, so considerations were given to the golf course because the person chose to live there, understanding that it is a golf course.”

Belt pointed out that the main difference between Kiawah’s old noise ordinance and the one they are currently suggesting is that there would be a noise limit on commercial landscaping to only take place during permitted hours, and it would put limits on construction activity. He said the previous noise ordinance didn’t want to include landscaping and construction as noise violations.

The Council members discussed banning gas-powered leaf blowers. Spencer added that regimes can ban the gas-powered leaf blowers now, instead of waiting for the Town to do it. The hope is to move toward electric-powered leaf blowers eventually for the whole island.

“Consideration needs to be given to the fact that we are going to continue to build things here,” Warren added. “Somehow, we have to come to an understanding and an agreement as to how that happens in a timely fashion with restrictions. Time is money, as you all know.”

By the end of the meeting, Kaye suggested that they publish all the issues that were raised about noise for additional public discussion. After changes are made to the draft, they will revisit the first reading of a new noise ordinance at a later date. At that point, they will have more clarification on the restrictions and changes they want to see in terms of noise on the island.

Twenty years in the making: chamber music Charleston opens landmark season

BY SANDRA NIKOLAJEVS For The Island Connection

Chamber Music Charleston celebrates the launch of the extraordinary 20th Anniversary Season on Sunday, September 28 at 3 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church at 405 King Street. This dynamic program brings together guest artists, current and former CMC musicians and distinguished alumni from the CMC TWO program for a

Two Fun Event s .

performance brimming with energy, elegance and artistry

The concert, titled “Tango Meets Classical,” opens with a masterpiece of baroque brilliance: Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, which is followed by Astor Piazzolla’s Tango-infused “Four Seasons of Buenos Aires.” The program culminates with Mendelssohn’s virtuosic Octet in E-flat Ma(Continued on page 6)

Seabrook Island Village opens fall programs to all island residents

BY ANNE R. BAVIER For The Island Connection

Seabrook Island Village (SIV) recently announced its fall programs and invites all islanders to participate. As a federally recognized nonprofit organization, SIV works on neighbors helping neighbors with a focus on health and wellness. The fall program includes education events and fun with fundraising. Gate passes are provided. Visit seabrookislandvillage.org for information on attending programs.

Be savvy with technology!

Technological innovations are intended to make our lives easier, but figuring out how to tap the benefits is a maze of blind alleys and confusing directions. With a grant from the Town of Seabrook Island, SIV is proud to present Chad Droze, local technology expert and consultant, for hands-on, face-to-face instruction.

Preventing Scams: What you need to know.

October 20 from 2-3:30 p.m. at The Seabrook Island Lake House

Items often look innocent as they sit in your email or text message box, but there are red flags and subtle clues that indicate trouble. Learn the latest in protecting your digital resources. Arm yourself with the know-how to keep your family and resources safe.

Apple Watches Oh My!

November 3 from 10-11:30 a.m. at The Seabrook Island Lake House

National marketing efforts have done a great job of promoting the benefits of Apple watches. However, obtaining those benefits requires the watch owner to take some action. Many are not using them to maximum benefit. Our workshop will empower you to tap into those resources.

Enjoy the FUN at fall fundraising.

Sip and Shop

Update your fall wardrobe or get an early start on holiday gifts by joining SIV for Sip and Shop on October 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at J. McLaughlin in Freshfield Village The popular clothing store will donate 10% of the proceeds to SIV. This is a win-win for all and a great way to be sure you are ready with the latest fall fashions.

SIV Fall Mah Jong Day

SIV presents the sixth Mah Jong Tournament on Thursday October 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Seabrook Island Club. As always, players are grouped to enjoy rounds of Mah Jong with players of similar skills. Food is abundant and includes lunch with the opportunity to socialize with other players. Paper registration forms are available after September 10. Check out the Seabrook Island Racquet Club or the Lake House or Club for registration forms. This event is again chaired by Susan Coomer, who will gladly answer questions or get you a registration form. Contact Susan at Seabrksue@att.net or 843-901-0447.

For more information about all programs and services and to register, visit seabrookislandvillage.org

Chamber Music

Continued from page 4

jor, written 200 years ago and hailed as one of the greatest chamber works of all time.

Internationally acclaimed violinist Francisco Fullana leads the ensemble, also performing the virtuosic solo violin part in Piazzolla’s Four Seasons. A recipient of the 2018 Avery Fisher Career Grant and 2023 Khaledi Prize, Fullana has been praised by multiple media outlets. He is joined by guest cellist Gabriel Martins and former CMC musicians Megan and Alan Molina, appearing through the generous support of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, where they currently perform.

Charleston-based CMC artists featured in the concert include violinist Frances Hsieh; violists Ben Weiss, Jenny Weiss and Craig Mumm; cellist Timothy O’Malley; and harpsichordist Julia Harlow. The ensemble also welcomes back two alumni of the CMC TWO Youth Chamber Music program—cellist Peter O’Malley and violinist Elaina Gable. Peter is continuing his studies at the Robert McDuffie Center for Strings after two years at the Cleveland Institute of Music, while Elaina is pursuing her degree at the Peabody Institute of Music.

Tickets start at $10 for students and parents and $35 for general audiences. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit chambermusiccharleston.org/ovation-2025-2026/.

Photos: Courtesy of Chamber Music Charleston

After launching a successful inaugural summer program, the Kiawah Women’s Foundation (KWF) Backpack Buddies program is back for the 2025–26 school year. Packing resumed August 27, with the first deliveries to local schools taking place August 28.

This summer, KWF partnered with the Charleston County School District’s Summer Feeding Program, the Johns Island Library, Angel Oak Elementary’s Owlventure Camp and Mt. Zion Elementary’s Kaleidoscope programs to provide 100 weekend food bags weekly to local students. The goal? To ensure no child goes hungry when school cafeterias are closed.

During the 2024–25 school year, KWF served 355 students weekly at four schools, packing over 11,700 bags containing more than 56,000 meals along with snacks. The foundation also stocked hygiene closets, delivered fresh fruit twice a week to Frierson Elementary, provided holiday gifts and clothing to children in need, supported sports teams and fulfilled teacher and classroom wish lists.

This year, KWF is expanding its reach by adding the St. John’s High School Food Pantry, which will be stocked with nutritious food, clothing and hygiene products. Weekend Backpack Buddy bags will continue for students at Haut Gap Middle School, E.L. Frierson Elementary and Minnie Hughes Elementary.

“Our mission is simple — to ensure that every child in the region has access to nutritious food. We never want hunger to be a blockade to learning,” said Farish Perlman, KWF Chair.

To volunteer or donate, visit kiawahwomensfoundation.org and help KWF ensure that no local child faces hunger or goes without the essentials.

• Knowledgeable professionals actively sell your items

• Items are well-kept and showcased for shoppers

• Avoid high costs and hassles of storage units

• Large, clean, well-lit, climate controlled facility

• Open to the public, designers, dealers, regular open-house events

• 10,000+ email subscribers hear about new deliveries and events

• Centrally located with plenty of parking (two doors down from Ferguson’s Bath/Kitchen & Lighting)

Hours: Tuesdays 10-2pm

Arts, etc. launches 25th anniversary membership drive

BY MARTHA ZINK For The Island Connection

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Arts, etc., a nonprofit organization of Kiawah Island and Cassique women dedicated to cultivating creativity and shaping young lives through the fine arts. Since its founding, Arts, etc. has provided vital grant funding to program partners who bring visual art, music, dance and theater into schools on Johns and Wadmalaw Islands.

Last year Arts, etc. raised close to $200,000 to fund the 13 program partners who deliver the quality art programs in the public schools. The funds were raised through the Kiawah Island Arts, etc. Art and House Tour, business sponsorships, member contributions and a very successful Fine Art Auction featuring well-known artists and member artists.

As the organization celebrates this milestone year, it is launching a Membership Drive to welcome new members who share a passion for the arts, education and community.

“Over the past 25 years, our members have worked tirelessly to support arts education for children who might not otherwise have access,” said Karen Curth, president of Arts, etc. “The impact of these programs is visible not only in the classrooms but in the lives of students who discover confidence, creativity and joy through artistic expression.”

In addition to fundraising and philanthropy, Arts, etc. offers members monthly opportunities for fellowship and inspiration. Events include luncheons with engaging guest speakers, social gatherings and opportunities to collaborate with other women who care deeply about the arts and their community.

New members are encouraged to join in this special anniversary year to help build on the organization’s legacy of enriching young minds through the arts. To learn more, please visit kiawahartsetc.org, or email members@kiawahartsetc.org.

AROUND THE ISLANDS

ONGOING

WHAT: Fleece+ Friday

WHERE: Beachwalker Center

WHEN: Every Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

MORE INFO: Join the Kiawah Cares Made with Love program to create handmade crafts for children, seniors, Veterans, teachers, new moms and neighbors in need. All skill levels are welcome to make no-sew fleece blankets, craft greeting cards, sew fabric totes, knit/crochet scarves and more.

WHAT: Spirit Tasting

WHERE: Kiawah Spirits, 615 Freshfields Dr. WHEN: Every Friday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Stop by Kiawah Spirits for tastings of select spirits. Guests must be 21 years old to participate. While supplies last.

WHAT: Sea Island Farmers Market

WHERE: 2024 Academy Rd., John’s Island

WHEN: Every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Sea Island Farmers Market is a yearround 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: 17th Annual Lowcountry GOLF&GALA

WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort, 5757 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 5 - Sunday, Sept. 7

MORE INFO: The 17th Annual Lowcountry GOLF&GALA will feature a full weekend of fundraising and entertainment, including a golf tournament at the Wild Dunes Links Course and a gala reception at the Sweetgrass Inn on Friday, September 5. Gala guests are encouraged to keep the party going on Saturday, September 6, with a pickleball social, pool party, and a Caddyshack themed party/ benefit concert at Islander 71. Learn more at FirstTeeCHS.org/golfgala.

WHAT: Indigo Road Restaurant Week

WHERE: All Indigo Road Restaurants

WHEN: Sept. 4 to Sept. 14

MORE INFO: Indigo Road Hospitality Group announces the return of it’s Indigo Road Restaurant Week – welcoming guests to enjoy special multicourse menus at its restaurants throughout Charleston. A celebration of the end of summer, each menu features seasonal bites and menu favorites for diners to enjoy. Here are the details: Brasserie la Banque (1 Broad St.) - $60 per person menu, Indaco (526 King St.) - $65 per person menu, The Kingstide (32 River Landing Dr., Daniel Island) - $60 per person menu, Two Bit Club (93 Society St) - $55 per person 4-course menu, Oak Steakhouse (17 Broad St.) - $60 per person menu, O-Ku (463 King St.) - $60 per person menu. Edmund’s Original (1081 Morrison Dr.) - $55 per person menu, Post House Inn (101 Pitt St., Mt. Pleasant) - $35 per person menu (lunch only).

WHERE: First Anniversary Celebration

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 12 and Saturday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Our community calendar keeps you updated on local events, from festivals to workshops to family-friendly gatherings. Stay connected and never miss out on the excitement.

WHERE: M. Dumas & Sons, 1242 Belk Dr., #100, Mt Pleasant

MORE INFO: The store will host a $500 gift card raffle, offer customers a gift with purchase from favorite brand partners, and serve complimentary wine from Boutique Beverage Company.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 5

WHAT: Puppy Yoga

WHERE: Firefly Distillery, 4201 Spruill Ave., North Charleston

WHEN: 6 - 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: Puppy Yoga on the lawn at Firefly Distillery, led by local instructor Reagan Sobel and joined by the adorable adoptable dogs of Clements Ferry Veterinary and Duty Tails Animal Rescue. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just here for the puppies, this all-levels class is the perfect blend of movement and mood-lifting fun. Flow through your poses while playful pups wander through the crowd spreading joy, kisses, and maybe a little chaos. Tickets are $15 and a portion of proceeds benefits Duty Tails Animal Rescue. BYO yoga mat, water, and sunscreen/bug spray.

WHAT: George Thorogood & The Destroyers

WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Charleston

WHEN: 8 p.m.

MORE INFO: Since 1975, they’ve sold over 15 million albums, built a classic catalog of hits, and played more than 8,000 ferocious shows. They broke records with their 50 Dates/50 States tour, delivered landmark performances at Live Aid and on SNL, and became mainstays of radio, MTV and stages worldwide for more than two generations. Through it all, they’ve remained one of the most consistent – and consistently passionate – progenitors of blues-based rock in pop culture history.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 6

WHAT: Sunrise Yoga

WHERE: Kiawah Beachwalker Park

WHEN: 7 a.m.

MORE INFO: Charleston County Parks’ Sunrise Yoga program is back at select park sites this summer. Participants will stretch their bodies, awaken their minds, and fuel their spirits in this uplifting, intention-setting yoga class sure to enhance the day ahead. Sunrise Yoga is inclusive and open to all abilities and fitness levels.

WHAT: 5th Annual Drifter Fest: Bert Griggs Memorial Jam WHERE: The Refinery, 1640 Meeting Street Rd., Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Live music lineup that includes progressive improvisational rock/jam band Big Something headlining along with local favorites Kanika Moore & The Brown Eyed Bois, and Just Groove. Purchase tickets at drifterfest.com

SUNDAY, SEPT. 7

WHAT: One Night of Queen: Performed by Gary Mullen & The Works WHERE: Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun St., Charleston

WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: For over 20 years Gary Mullen & The Works have been performing their worldrenowned “One Night of Queen” live concert. The band will have you dancing in the aisles during their show, while they pay tribute to the stage

theatrics, showmanship, and music of arguably the greatest rock band of all time: Queen.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 11

WHAT: Sweat on the Ship WHERE: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, 40 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

MORE INFO: Get ready to break a sweat aboard the legendary USS Yorktown. Whether you’re looking for an energizing sunrise session or a soothing sunset workout, this event has got you covered. What to expect: high-energy workout for all fitness levels.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 12

WHAT: Beer From Here WHERE: South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston WHEN: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

MORE INFO: Enjoy all the fun of a bar crawl — minus the miles — as you sample libations from some of the Lowcountry’s best breweries. New this year, meet the aquatic animals of our coast at the Boneyard Beach Touch Tank Experience. Tickets include unlimited beer samples, light bites, entertainment, and a souvenir tasting glass. Buy tickets at scaquarium.org/beerfromhere.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13

WHAT: Leon Bridges and Charley Crockett: “Crooner & the Cowboy Tour” WHERE: Credit One Stadium, 161 Seven Farms Dr., Daniel Island WHEN: 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: Leon Bridges and Charley Crockett will perform on Daniel Island. Opening for the Texas musicians is Los Angeles musician Reyna Tropical.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 14

WHAT: 2nd Sunday on King Street WHERE: King St., Charleston WHEN: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

MORE INFO: King Street will be shut down to through traffic from Queen to Calhoun, roughly 1/2 mile. Strolling guests can enjoy music, shopping, dining, and more.

WHAT: Fins & Flippers Fundraiser WHERE: Bowens Island Restaurant, 1870 Bowens Island Rd., James Island WHEN: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

MORE INFO: Come out for a FIN-tastic time at the Bowen’s Island Dockhouse and get ready to dive into an afternoon of fun, food, and fundraising. All proceeds benefit Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network’s mission to protect marine mammals for future generations. Attendeees can enjoy a Lowcountry Boil, live music, raffles, and more.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 20

WHAT: Cars & Coffee Event Finale WHERE: Freshfields Village WHEN: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

MORE INFO: The final Cars & Coffee event of 2025 will showcase a variety of classic vehicles around The Village Green for visitors to explore, and offer the chance to connect over coffee and breakfast available for purchase from Java Java. The popular monthly seasonal series is set to return in February 2026.

Development

Continued from page 3

A second reading of the Orange Hill ordinance approving the Orange Hill development agreement was unanimously approved at Charleston County Council’s July 22 meeting. The development agreement requires one more reading to be approved.

Trident Medical: Johns Island Freestanding Emergency

Zelasko Drive – Across from Live Oak Square

Anticipated Construction: Beginning September 2025

Representatives from Trident Medical spoke at a Johns Island Council meeting on August 14. The Johns Island Advocate reports that “The ER will include eleven patient rooms, in-house diagnostic labs, advanced imaging and mental health telemedicine. It will be staffed by physicians board-certified in emergency medicine and nurses trained in emergency medicine. Groundbreaking is tentatively set for September, with an estimated 11 months to completion.”

Trident is also seeking to build a hospital behind the emergency facility. The

50-bed hospital, first announced in 2023, would be located between Maybank Highway and Cane Slash Road.

Wider Johns Island

Main Road Corridor Segment A Anticipated Completion (Segment A): 2028

Main Road Corridor Segment A begins at Bees Ferry Road and continues along Main Road across US 17, ending at the intersection of River Road and Chisolm Road. The project includes widening Main Road from Bees Ferry Road to River Road, constructing a new interchange flyover at US 17 and Main Road and constructing a roundabout at Main Road and River/Chisolm Roads. The project also includes the addition of a shared-use path on the Limehouse Bridge and extension of the West Ashley Greenway to Bees Ferry Road.

Construction of the interchange is underway now. Construction on a roundabout at the intersection of Main, River and Chisolm roads is planned to begin in fall of this year.

The Seabrook Island Garden Group kicks off another year

BY JOANNE GALLIVAN For The Island Connection

Whether you are an experienced gardener or someone who just enjoys the beauty of the flora and fauna of our island and the Lowcountry, we welcome you to the Seabrook Island Garden Club. We have grown to over 130 members in our 36 years on Seabrook.

We meet monthly from September through April, ending our year with a luncheon in May. Meetings are at the Oyster Catcher Community Center the second Friday of the month at 9:30 a.m. Following refreshments and a brief business meeting, we enjoy a variety of programs. Past topics have been monarch migration, beekeeping, growing citrus in our climate, learning about orchids, herb gardening, the Angel Oak Preserve and food composting. In addition, we offer workshops and field trips to members.

Our monthly raffles and the raffle at our annual island-wide open house support our philanthropic efforts, such as sponsoring scholarship students at Trident Technical College and contributing to the Haut Gap Middle School Garden.

The 2025-2026 kick off meeting will be on Friday, September 12 at 9:30 a.m. Annual dues are $25, payable at the meeting by check or cash. We will have an overview of the upcoming programs, hear about the various committees you can join (a great way to meet people!) and plenty of social time with refreshments. Please join us. Watch for our new website coming soon with upcoming programs and activities. Meanwhile, please, contact andrews.melissa56@gmail.com with any questions.

Newly named Fleming Open at Seabrook Island set for October

BY SUSAN COURTNEY

For The Island Connection

The prestigious Alan Fleming Open Clay Court Championship returns this fall under a new name — the Fleming Open at Seabrook Island — while maintaining its long-standing recognition as the South Carolina Adult Tennis Tournament of the Year.

Now in its 41st year, this USTA National Level 3/ITF event features men’s and women’s singles and doubles in age categories 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80, alongside a USTA National Level 1/ITF mixed doubles competition for ages 40 through 80.

Hosted at the Seabrook Island Racquet Club, the tournament attracts more than 400 players from across the United States and abroad, drawn by the club’s exceptional facilities and renowned Southern hospitality.

Tournament director Laura Ferreira – who’s also the director of racquet sports at the Seabrook Island Club – and Committee Chairman Mary Anne Rayfield lead a dedicated planning committee and a large team of volunteers who work to create a fun and well-organized tournament.

“The Fleming Open is a highlight of our year,” Ferreira said. “Our team takes great pride in fostering an atmosphere that keeps players coming back year after year.”

Registration is now open, and participants are encouraged to sign up promptly, as last year’s event sold out. The registration deadline is September 15. The $160 entry fee covers participation in up to two events, a commemorative tournament pullover and admission to the popular Friday evening oceanfront event featuring cocktails, dinner and live music.

As part of its tradition of giving back, the Fleming Open has once again selected a local charity as its beneficiary. This year’s recipient is Blessing Basket, an outreach program of the Sea Islands Hunger Awareness Foundation. The program provides fresh produce, meats, eggs, bread and other nourishing groceries to residents in need on Johns and Wadmalaw islands. Serving about 300 households each month, Blessing Basket dedicates 97% of donations directly to food distribution.

For more information on the tournament, volunteer opportunities, sponsorship or how to support Blessing Basket, visit flemingopen.net.

Whether as a player, sponsor, volunteer or spectator, you are invited to be part of the 41st Annual Fleming Open — a celebration of tennis, community spirit and philanthropy. Spectator admission is free, and all are welcome.

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