IEN May 31 2024

IOP Council considers City Hall upgrades

By Brian Sherman

For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Council recently got a look at what it might cost to replace or renovate the current City Hall building, and the estimated price tag ranges from just over $3.6 million, all the way up to $14.5 million, depending on which of the options city officials eventually choose.

After a presentation by representatives of Trident Construction Company (Continued on page 8)

Burying Sullivan’s Island electric lines could carry a hefty price tag

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

A plan to bury almost 16 miles of overhead electrical lines on Sullivan’s Island might cost in the neighborhood of $60 million and could face a few difficult hurdles before work on such a project would be able to get underway.

Dominion Energy spokesperson Paul Fischer said May 23 that the $60 million figure was a “ballpark” number based on similar projects the power company has completed, two days after a presentation by two Dominion representatives – Bill Turner, general manager, electric distribution operations, and Danny Kassis, general manager, new business and customer solutions – at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Sullivan’s Island Town Council.

The plan to at least look into the possibility of burying the remaining 15.91 miles of overhead lines – 7.42 miles were buried in 2006 and 2012 – was placed on the Council’s list of priorities as a result of the controversy surrounding the cutting of a large number of trees and the planned removal of more than 500 palmettos that Dominion said were interfering with its lines.

Fischer pointed out that a major challenge the town

might face if the Council moves ahead with plans to bury the lines is obtaining easements from property owners to do the necessary work.

“There still would be pieces of equipment above ground. We would need easements from all property owners, and that can be a challenge. Sometimes acquisition of easements can delay projects for years,” he said, noting that, in one case, the placement of one piece of equipment was negotiated for more than a decade.

Fischer said it’s now up to the Council to take the next step in the process by defining the scope of the project and its priorities. Will all 15.91 miles be buried or only smaller sections, and will the work be completed all at once or in stages? Answering these and other questions will determine how long the project will take and how much an engineering study will cost – and how close to that $60 million estimate the actual price tag will be.

When the lines were buried on the east and west ends of the island, the work was paid for by South Carolina Electric & Gas, which merged with Dominion in 2019.

“To ensure continued safe and reliable operation of our system, portions of Sullivan’s Island were converted to underground. This engineering (Continued on page 10)

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

The Charleston Water System apparently won’t be shutting off the faucets on Sullivan’s Island after all. The municipality’s Town Council has taken a significant step toward resolving what could have been a major issue with the entity that has been supplying its water for the past three decades, unanimously authorizing Mayor Pat O’Neil to execute a memorandum of settlement with CWS.

“This is the result of many, many, many hours of work by a lot of people in mediation, so I’m glad to see us get to a point of potential resolution,” said O’Neil, after the Council discussed the matter for nearly an hour in executive session at the end of its regularly scheduled May 21 meeting.(Continued on page 5)

Sullivan’s, CWS reach agreement on water service IOP will test new noise law for six months

By Brian Sherman

For The Island Eye News

After more than two-anda-half years of discussing and dissecting the pros and cons of revamping Isle of Palms’ noise ordinance and with input from the city’s Planning Commission, the City Council’s Public Safety Committee and local residents, the Council has finally come up with a plan that will be embraced by the hospitality community inside and outside the gates of Wild Dunes, (Continued on page 6)

The Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support Annual Banquet was held May 15 at the Citadel Beach Club. Left to right: Explore Charleston CEO Helen Hill; former Isle of Palms Mayor Dick Cronin; Mark Mitchell; Linda Mitchell; and Kathy Bustos. More photos on page 17.

Photo by Bennett Coleman.

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A busy hurricane season is on the horizon

Dear Island Neighbors, Happy summer. Yeah, I know, it actually started a couple of months ago if you measure it by weekend beach traffic.

Hurricane season

In case you’ve been taking a news fast, we are likely facing an extremely busy hurricane season. The NOAA report it at bit. ly/NOAAH24. Our hurricane-dampening buddy El Niño has been kicked out of the Pacific by La Niña, which means more trouble in the Atlantic, which is already storing much more hurricane-fueling heat than usual for this time of year. If you are into crabbing, by August you may be able to catch them pre-boiled.

sional Fire Department staff. Most of the equipment you see them using is paid for by their own fundraising, so please make a contribution even if you can’t attend the Fish Fry – or if you’re buying tickets, round up the check by a digit or two. You can buy tickets or drop off a contribution at the Fire Station. It’s 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 29. Put it in your calendar now – bit.ly/SI-FIRE.

Summer safety reminders from our police chief

Chief of Police Glenn Meadows offers these important safety reminders for the summer season. Please read, no matter how many island summers you’ve enjoyed.

The point of this is: Get ready now! This includes learning what to expect if things are so bad that we have to evacuate. This is always a decision made at the state level, not by local governments. This year the South Carolina Emergency Management Division has revamped its evacuation plans and the zones which determine who goes when. You can see the new plan at bit.ly/SCEMDKYZ.

In the unfortunate event that we have to evacuate, and the island is hit so hard we have to restrict entry immediately post-storm, you will need to have a resident re-entry tag. The red square windshield stickers are no longer accepted. If you pay attention to older vehicles when driving anywhere around Charleston, you will see that those old stickers have spread everywhere.

The current resident-only re-entry hanging tags may be obtained at Town Hall upon the presentation of your driver’s license with your Sullivan’s Island address on it or a deed of ownership for island property. These tags are for residents and property owners only, not visitors, guests, extended family, contractors or employees.

If you have not already done so, please get your hanging tag now and make sure you keep it where you can use it when needed.

75th Annual Fire and Rescue Squad Fish Fry

This venerable island tradition is a great way to visit with friends and neighbors, support our great Fire and Rescue Squad and enjoy a fish dinner at a ridiculous bargain – 5 bucks each.

This is an important fundraiser for the wonderful volunteers who provide critical well-trained manpower – and womanpower – to bolster the safety capabilities of our profes-

“With the nicer weather upon us, our island is seeing an increase in vehicular traffic, bicyclists and walkers and runners. Drivers are reminded to exercise extreme caution, particularly on busy weekends, and to pay close attention to directional road and stop signs. Pedestrians in a marked crosswalk have the right-of-way. When parking, please follow the parking signs and ensure all tires are off the pavement to allow our emergency response vehicles room to navigate. No motorized vehicles are permitted on our beaches our beach paths.

“As a reminder, alcohol is not permitted on our beaches. Police Department personnel are actively patrolling our beaches and will enforce the ordinances prohibiting alcohol.

“It takes all of us to keep our beaches safe and enjoyable. Citizens are urged to call our non-emergency line at 843-743-7200 – think of the school: SIES 200 – to report suspicious activity of a non-emergency nature. Emergencies should immediately be reported by calling 911.”

Progress on the town’s Comprehensive Plan

State law requires every municipality to adopt a comprehensive plan every 10 years and to review it at the fiveyear point, after public meetings and plenty of opportunity for public input. The Planning Commission is now going through the five-year review. You can see the current draft at bit.ly/SICP2024.

Before giving final approval to send the plan to Council, the Planning Commission will have another public hearing on June 12 at 4 p.m. Come out to contribute your input.

The Sullivan’s Island Club

The re-energized group making the Island Club building –next to the Fish Fry Shack – a scene for more resident activities held a “Taste of Sullivan’s Island” fundraiser a couple of weeks ago. Despite unhelpful weather, it was a good time and very well-attended by a broad cross-section of islanders.

Happy Retirement

Pastor Phil Clark, with 37 years of service as an ordained minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, is retiring. His career highlights include a distinguished 20year tenure as a Navy chaplain and serving as a parish minister at St. Mark's. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for his dedicated

Thanks to Chief Stith and the Fire and Public Works departments for helping with barricades and assistance in accommodating the weather.

If you weren’t there, you can learn more about the Sullivan’s Island Club by visiting thesullivansislandclub.com.

See you around the Island!

Pat O’Neil

Mayor 843-670-9266

Twitter: @oneilpm1 oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov

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SINGLE IN THE HOLY CITY: THERE'S NO ESCAPING PAST SUITORS IN CHARLESTON

“Charleston's charm lies in its familiar faces, familiar suitors from the past two be more specific. It’s reminiscent of my college days.”

~Nicole Farina

“FOLLOW THE NORTH STAR" EXHIBITION AT IAAM EXPLORES THE AFRICAN AMERICAN JOURNEY FOR FREEDOM

The International African American Museum (IAAM) is set to unveil an exclusive exhibition showcasing the quest for freedom and selfdetermination within the African American community.

THE TITANS OF IGAMING: WHO'S WHO IN THE PUBLICLY TRADED ARENA?

Curious about the heavy hitters in the iGaming realm? Let's unveil the leading players in the industry.

CHARLESTON BEER FEST TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW

Scheduled for October 26th at Riverfront Park in North Charleston, the festival will run from 1- 7 pm and will feature a lineup of over 60 regional breweries.

PREP YOUR PLAYROOM FOR A FUN-FILLED SUMMER

As the school year draws to a close, now is an ideal moment to revamp your playroom for the upcoming summer season, ensuring it's equipped for rainy days, sibling bonding, and endless indoor fun.

WILD DUNES RESORT APPOINTS TERRI A. HAACK AS MANAGING DIRECTOR

Wild Dunes Resort has appointed Terri A. Haack as its managing director. Haack makes her return to Wild Dunes Resort after a 17-year absence.

REPORTS: EX-'SOUTHERN CHARM' STAR KATHRYN DENNIS ARRESTED FOR DUI

As per several media accounts, Kathryn Dennis, former cast member of Southern

was reportedly arrested and charged with driving under the influence on Monday.

Charm,

NOAA predicts above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season

By Erica Grow Cei For The Island Eye News

National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to Nov. 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms – winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes – winds of 74 mph or higher – including four to seven major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph or higher. Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges.

The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to factors including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation.

“With another active hurricane season approaching, NOAA’s commitment to keeping every American informed with lifesaving information is unwavering,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “AI-enabled language translations and a new depiction of inland wind threats in the forecast cone are just two examples of the proactive steps our agency is taking to meet our mission of saving lives and protecting

Water

Continued from page 1

“We agreed to approve the memorandum of settlement, conditions we would expect to see in the actual contract, which remains to be executed. Next the two sides will work on the contract,” O’Neil said later.

The mayor pointed out that the contract signed by the town and the water system in 1994 would be replaced by a new agreement. He said Sullivan’s Island would be paying more for water than in the past.

“How much we pay in a given year will vary, depending on capital charges for that year,” he explained. “They will be giving us a five-year lookahead every year, so we can budget for that.”

Neither the town nor the water system would release the details of the memorandum of settlement prior to the new contract being signed.

Charleston Water System had threatened to cut off service to the island on July 20 if the town refused to pay $1.078 million, the difference between what the town has been paying and what the system claims it should have been paying since 2017. CWS did not accept a payment of $227,381.92, a figure determined by the town’s rate consultant and approved by the Council in April of this year. Sullivan’s Island has been holding funds in escrow for several years to cover the possibility that it eventually would have to be paid to the water system, O’Neil said.

property.”

“Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. “Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail. Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow.”

NOAA scientists predict a quick transition to La Nina conditions, which are conducive to Atlantic hurricane activity because La Nina tends to lessen wind shear in the tropics. At the same time, abundant oceanic heat content in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea creates more energy to fuel storm development.

forecast communications, decision support and storm recovery efforts this season. These include:

• The National Hurricane Center will expand its offering of Spanish language text products to include all public advisories, the tropical cyclone

discussion, the tropical cyclone update and key messages in the Atlantic basin.

This hurricane season also features the potential for an above-normal west African monsoon, which can produce African easterly waves that seed some of the strongest Atlantic storms. Finally, light trade winds allow hurricanes to grow in strength without the disruption of strong wind shear and also minimize ocean cooling. Human-caused climate change is warming our ocean globally and in the Atlantic basin, and melting ice on land, leading to sea level rise, which increases the risk of storm surge.

NOAA will implement improvements to its

• Beginning around Aug.15, NHC will start to issue an experimental version of the forecast cone graphic that includes a depiction of inland tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings in effect for the continental United States.

• This season, the NHC will be able to issue U.S. tropical cyclone watches and warnings with regular or intermediate public advisories. This means that if updates to watches and warnings for storm surge or winds are needed, the NHC will be able to notify the public in an intermediate advisory instead of waiting for the next full advisory issued every six hours.

SC Ports leader is next up for LENS Leadership Series

By Ada Jenkins

For The Island Eye News

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church will host the third session of the LENS Leadership Series June 12. The spotlight of the evening will shine on Barbara Melvin, a remarkable figure in the maritime industry, renowned for her groundbreaking achievements and visionary leadership.

The event, slated from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., promises an evening of rich discourse and invaluable insights. Melvin’s career at South Carolina Ports has been marked by numerous milestones, including her historic appointment as the first woman to lead a top 10 U.S. container port. With a remarkable trajectory spanning from government relations to chief operating officer in 2018 and chief executive officer in 2022, she has played an instrumental role in steering SC Ports to unprecedented success.

As the driving force behind initiatives such as the deepening of Charleston Harbor to a record-breaking 52 feet, Melvin has earned widespread recognition for her contributions to the maritime sector. Honors bestowed upon her include the prestigious 2023 Leading Woman

award by SC Women in Leadership and the esteemed Outstanding Women in Supply Chain Award.

In January, LENS hosted Tommy Hartnett, who represented the Charleston area in the South Carolina General Assembly and the Palmetto State’s 1st District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Another compelling session in April featured Prioleau Alexander – Marine veteran, adventurer and thought-provoking author –igniting an engaging discussion with candid insights and tales from his unconventional journeys.

Those who attend the LENS Leadership Series June 12 can anticipate an engaging dialogue with Melvin, who will impart invaluable wisdom gleaned from her illustrious career.

For further information, visit lensiop.org/ programs or reach out by email at kinghorn. ted@gmail.com. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is located at 300 Palm Blvd.

Barbara Melvin

short-term rental owners and and managers and people who live in the island’s neighborhoods – or maybe not.

At its May 14 workshop, the IOP Council agreed to consider passing the proposed ordinance on first reading at its regularly scheduled May 28 meeting. Not every Council member was happy with the plan presented by Public Safety Committee Chair John Bogosion, however, and the proposal also elicited negative vibes from those who spoke during the citizens’ comments part of the meeting.

The proposed ordinance would be in effect from July 1 through Dec. 31, when the Council will have the opportunity to tweak the measure following a six-month trial period.

Changes from the previous iteration of the ordinance considered by the Council included lowering the maximum decibel level from 75 to 70 in commercial areas of Wild Dunes, including the Sweetgrass Inn, during daytime hours and setting the limit at 55 decibels in all residential areas inside and outside the resort during the night and 65 decibels in the daytime.

For the purposes of the ordinance, daytime hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

During the six-month period starting July 1, the city will use noise monitors to test the level of noise on Front Beach and possibly assign decibel

limits to that area of the city.

Through the end of 2024, residents disturbed by noise originating from Front Beach will have to depend on the definition of excessive noise included in the proposed ordinance: Any unnecessary or unusually loud sound or any sound which disrupts the peace and quiet of any neighborhood and which does annoy, disturb, injure or endanger the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of reasonable persons or ordinary sensibilities.

“People asked us to enforce the regulations and enforce livability,” Bogosian stated. “This is a compromise. In April, we had 35 noise complaints and no citations, which tells us we don’t have an enforceable ordinance.”

Council Member Elizabeth Campsen did not agree with Bogosian’s assessment of the situation.

“I have a hard time with 65, which is deemed in other communities as being full-on commercial use,” she said. “I feel like we’re trying to set a limit we don’t want to reach.”

She also questioned the use of noise monitoring devices in the Front Beach area of the island.

“Are we going to essentially delegate our responsibility as a Council to the tourism industry to make recommendations that in my mind feel too high?” she asked. “I think this needs a lot of work before first reading. Perhaps sometimes maybe not doing something is better than doing something that’s not a good idea.”

Local residents criticized the proposed ordinance, attacking the measure from both sides of the question. Terri Haack, managing director of

the Wild Dunes Resort, asked the Council not to drop the daytime maximum level from 75 to 70 decibels at the Sweetgrass Inn.

“We would like a 75-decibel limit for the commercial area of Sweetgrass Inn from July 1 until Dec. 31. We will accept the proposed 70-decibel limit at the end of this period if we cannot demonstrate that we remain in compliance at all times,” she said. “We are committed to being a good neighbor while thriving as a business that contributes to the overall well-being of this city through business, real estate, accommodations and hospitality taxes.”

Former IOP Council member Randy Bell claimed that the representatives of the resort made misleading statements at a May 22, 2018, Council meeting concerning the noise that might emanate from the hotel and urged residents to visit youtube. com/watch?v=h9izh6nyZEo to watch the meeting.

“Why is any residential community within IOP being asked to conform to commercial noise standards, instead of asking the commercial entity to conform to residential standards?’ Bell questioned. “With history as a guide, WD/Lowe has no credibility in delivering on promises to the residents.”

And Al Clouse, who lives near the Sweetgrass Inn, said he was making his 30th presentation since April 13, 2022, to the Council concerning noise.

“We requested sound abatement two years ago,” he said. “The South side of the Empire is unfinished by design, allowing noise to infect the neighbors south of the Empire. What would Dart/Hyatt do when the noise ricocheted back at their guests?”

Trapping coyotes is the best option, IOP chief tells Council

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

There’s certainly more than one option to deal with the recent increase in coyote attacks on the Isle of Palms, including hunting the sometimes dangerous canines or tempting them with food that makes sterile. According to IOP Police Chief Kevin Cornett, the best way of solving the problem is trapping, which is exactly what his department is doing. He recently told members of the City Council that educating the public concerning ways to avoid interacting with the wild animals is a helpful tool as well.

to about that has brought up the risk,” Cornett explained. “In most places where this happens, they have a golf course or something they can close off to the public. There’s a significant risk with people walking on the beach, even if you’re using a crossbow. If you hit a pet or a person, there’s no coming back from that mistake. It can be devastating if that goes wrong, and it only takes one time.”

“There is a significant amount of risk associated with hunting coyotes. Everybody I’ve talked to about that has brought up the risk.”

• IOP

Police Chief Kevin Cornett

At the Council’s May 14 workshop, Cornett pointed out that there have been more coyote sightings, encounters and attacks on pets in 2024 than in the past five years. He said he has talked with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Director Robert Boyles and State Director of U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services/Wildlife Services Noel Myers and they both agreed that hunting coyotes is a perilous proposition.

“There is a significant amount of risk associated with hunting coyotes. Everybody I’ve talked

The chief added that federal and state law prohibit putting out food aimed at sterilizing coyotes. Cornett said his biggest concern would be that such a plan could end up sterilizing a resident’s pet.

“The only approved method for sterilization is to trap and neuter or spay,” Cornett said, adding that on IOP, trapped coyotes are euthanized.

The chief told the Council that the trapper hired by the city has put out three sets of traps – six altogether – near the 3600 block of Palm Boulevard. They were moved to that location after a local resident provided the Police Department with a video of “what we believe to be a den with some pups that were making a lot of noise.”

“We sent our trapper out to follow up on that video and confirmed that there was a den in that area, so we transferred our traps out there,”

Cornett said. “As a result, we caught one coyote. It was a male, still fairly young but not a pup. He was euthanized.”

The traps cost the city $1,650 every two weeks.

The chief pointed out that local residents have hired the same trapper to put out traps on private property.

Cornett said the Police Department posted 12 warning signs along the beach access paths where incidents involving coyotes have occurred. The next day, four of the signs were gone.

“We purchased additional signs and put them out,” he said.

Cornett cited preventive action local residents can take to help avoid confrontations with coyotes:

• Install PVC on the top of fences to keep coyotes from climbing into your yard;

•Don’t feed small animals that come into your yard – they are prey for coyotes;

• Don’t leave food out for animals;

• Keep your pets on a leash; they can be seriously injured if they are caught in a coyote trap;

• Keep a lid on your trash cans;

• If you encounter coyotes, be as loud as you can be in an effort to scare them off.

He added that coyote sightings should be reported to the Police Department. If there is a coyote attack, call the Department and an officer will come out and file an incident report.

City Hall

Continued from page 1

at its May 14 workshop, the Council decided to delegate the issue to its Public Services and Facilities Committee for further study. Chaired by Katie Miars, the committee includes Scott Pierce and Blair Hahn.

IOP’s current City Hall was built in 1991. Trident’s John Edward Griffith told Council members that the building’s envelope, which is supposed to keep water out, is in poor shape, that water drips through the vinyl siding, the exterior shows signs of deterioration, the main water line might need to be upsized, the water lines below the crawl space require insulation and a sprinkler system needs to be added. He also noted that the ceilings and floors need to be replaced, the elevator requires refurbishing or replacement, there are signs of deterioration in the electrical system and the generator must be upgraded with an automatic transfer switch.

On the brighter side, he pointed out that the structure of the building remains in good shape and a previous termite problem had been rectified.

Trident estimated the cost of renovating the 8,069-square-foot building to be $3,631,050. Renovating the building and adding another 3,600 square feet of space would cost $5,638,500, while adding 3,680 square feet in a different configuration would have a price tag of $5,747,050.

The Council also could consider a new building at the current location of City Hall – a two-story, 11,350-square-foot facility for an estimated $6,341,500 or a three-story, 21,970-square-foot building with a price tag of around $12,083,500. In either of these cases, the city would have to move to a temporary location for about a year, according to Trident.

The final two options presented in Trident’s report would move City Hall closer to the IOP Connector to the current site of the Public Works Department. Including the cost of a 17,000-square-foot building and relocating Public Works, either of those alternatives would cost the city an estimated $14,500,000.

Trident’s report pointed out that moving City Hall to another location would give IOP the opportunity to renovate the current building to accommodate eight units of workforce housing. The city also could build eight new workforce housing units at a different location for $3,300,000.

City Administrator Desiree Fragoso presented some other ideas for the Public Services and Facilities Committee to consider.

“Some of the options contemplate relocating City Hall to the corner lot. Our idea would be to consolidate Public Works with City Hall, recognizing that we have limited property to move Public Works to a different facility,” she pointed out.

She added, however, that the city has had conversations with the Department of Transportation, which owns a large parcel right behind Public Works.

“That, along with the two lots we own, plus the multiple parcels that make up the Public Works workshop, we believe that we can be creative to see if we can accommodate both uses in that location. That would free up this location for some of the ideas that we’ve discussed, such as workforce housing.”

Council Member Jimmy Ward asked if Trident had considered the possibility of a multiuse building where space could be rented out on weekends for “weddings and graduations and things like that,” and Griffith said that could be an option.

Sand sculptors will compete on IOP

By Kelsey Marsh For The Island Eye News

The 35th Annual Piccolo Spoleto sand sculpting competition takes place June 1 at 9 a.m. on Isle of Palms’ Front Beach. The event is free and open to all those who would like to show off their sand-sculpting abilities. Competitors can enter in the following divisions: children – ages 14 and under; young adult – ages 15 to 20; family – at least one adult and one child or young adult; and adult – ages 21 and older.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three in each category, along with the additional judged categories of most creative, best architectural and best in show. Individual and team entries are permitted, and teams are limited to four people. The first 200 to register are guaranteed a free T-shirt, but sizes are subject to availability. Visit iop.net for the 2024 online registration form, or register by stopping by the IOP Recreation Department or calling 843-886-8294. Registration the day of the event will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Shore Beats Work

Letter to the editor

We can’t afford not to act

In reviewing the town of Sullivan’s Island’s draft update to the Comprehensive Plan, I note the adaptation strategy in the resilience chapter is singularly focused on stormwater management. While threats from hurricanes and storm surge should be emphasized, too, I think we’d all agree that stormwater management needs to be one of our top priorities.

That’s why it is urgent that we act to protect our trees from Dominion Energy’s ecologically destructive practices, which will exacerbate flooding problems and make us less safe. One effective solution is to bury the remaining 16 miles of overhead power lines, either all at once or in sections over time.

Trees are nature’s powerful and cost-effective stormwater pumps. A mature tree can soak up to 40,000 gallons of water a year. Trees also absorb chemical pollutants, preventing them from reaching our groundwater and marshes. Protecting trees by burying power lines is an investment in both sustainable stormwater management and clean water.

Trees are a beautiful and iconic part of our island character, as is the diversity of wildlife they support. Palmettos play a significant role in our history. Burying power lines is an investment in maintaining what makes living here so special, reflects our care for the natural world and maintains property values.

Dominion frames “tree trimming and removal” around power lines as a safety issue, which is certainly valid. But we have legitimate safety concerns, too. We live on a barrier island on the front lines of climate change, faced with dangerous threats from rising sea levels and more severe storms. To protect ourselves, we need every single, healthy tree we can get. Meanwhile, Dominion makes $2 billion in profit, leaving deformed and weakened trees in their wake. Dominion is adding to our stormwater problem and making us less safe.

At the May 21 Town Council meeting, Dominion estimated that burying all remaining power lines would cost about $60 million. While this is a significant amount and there are other considerations, the project can be staged to reduce costs and financed over 30 or more years.

I urge residents to become informed and for Town Council to use the non-standard service fund to create a project design. This plan would refine cost estimates and identify strategic options for phased implementation and funding such as grants. There’s far too much at stake to ignore this opportunity. How can we afford not to act?

Karen Byko Sullivan’s Island

One Lucky Dog

By Katherine Berry

Owner: Darren, Lisa and Ollie Baber

Dog’s name: Tazzy Nickname: Taz-quila

Age: 10ish Breed: Cayman street dog

Food: Canine Caviar

When I think about my younger years as a street dog living in the dumpsters of the Cayman Islands versus where I am today, I have to bite my booty every day to make sure I’m actually alive.

Mom saved my life and, in return, I like to think I’m saving hers and leading her to live her dream life. I introduced her to Dad. Darren is a rock star, and we have a special bond, but Mom is my jam. Now my litter is growing with my little brother, Ollie, and I have another litter mate on the way.

I work hard at relaxing and prefer to situate myself in the sun on a giant stash of pillows. I figure I did enough running in the streets for a few lifetimes, and I can’t be bothered with the running thing any longer. However a few weeks ago, I thought I lost it all when I was spooked on the beach during my evening stroll with Mom. She was jamming to Tay-Tay, and I was right next to her and then, my greatest fear emerged from the skies: thunder. Without my thunder shirt, I bolted and lost Mom. All I could think about was being homeless again, but, after hours of searching for her, I heard that familiar beeping of the golf cart and found her.

Luckily, I’m home again with my family, eating steaks and bacon, back on my throne in my luxurious life, where a world-traveling Cayman street dog who won the dog lottery should be. Thank you, family. You really know how to make an old gal feel loved. You’re truly my bright shining North Stars, and I will spend the rest of my time in this body loving and cherishing every moment.

If you have a “Lucky Dog” with a story to share, email me at LuckydogsIOP@gmail.com to set up a quick visit with you and your pup. Thank you • Katherine.

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solution was completed at our cost to effectively manage load concerns and mitigate damage from salt contamination on higher voltage,” Fischer said.

There apparently are no plans for Dominion to pay to bury the rest of the lines on the island.

At the May 21 meeting, Council Member Scott Millimet asked the Dominion representatives if the power company could bill customers over a 30-year period for the cost of burying the lines. He questioned whether Dominion wouldn’t be better off with an underground system if the Lowcountry is hit by a large hurricane.

“Would you rather rebuild overheads at your cost or pay to put the lines underground?” he asked.

Fischer later pointed out that “there is a path toward establishing a franchise fee. That’s something the town would want to initiate. There have been examples where a community has utilized a franchise fee. The city of Beaufort is a good example.”

Fischer said many undergrounding projects are completed for aesthetic reasons, such as in Mount Pleasant, Charleston, North Charleston and on Mathis Ferry Road. He added that burying lines helps remove some of the risk from a severe weather event, but he also said that there would be an increased risk of flooding. And he noted that with underground service, it’s more difficult to find and fix outages than with overhead lines.

“There’s no one solution that will address every concern,” he said. “There’s no one approach that addresses every issue.”

Burying the lines would change the way electricity comes into homes and businesses, and Fischer said converting to a new system would probably cost around $2,000 per customer – which would be the responsibility of homeowners.

“It would be a very collaborative effort between the town, the Council and residents. You want to make sure all residents are willing to accept underground service. We can’t force them to accept underground service,” Fischer concluded.

Dominion apparently moving on with plans to cut down palmettos

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

Despite efforts to reduce the number of palmetto trees Dominion Energy plans to cut down on Sullivan’s Island, a contractor hired by the power company was scheduled to begin removing the historically significant trees shortly after the Memorial Day holiday.

Sullivan’s Island Deputy Administrator Joe Henderson said May 22 that Director of Resilience and Natural Resource Management Rebecca Fanning would lead an effort to evaluate each of the 523 trees Dominion plans to eliminate to see if any of them can be saved or relocated. He said the project probably would begin at the west end of the island and move eastward, adding that he didn’t know how long the work would take or if Dominion would delay its plans to cut the trees down flush with the ground.

The power company contends that the trees are interfering with its overhead lines. Dominion spokesperson Paul Fischer verified that the work would begin May 28, but he added that Dominion is “continuing to review all trees identified for removal.”

“If there is any opportunity for relocation of these trees, we want to work through that,” he commented. “We’re continuing to meet with the town throughout the process.”

The South Carolina Department of Transportation, which owns most of the roads on the island, is now involved in the palmetto tree controversy conversation, as are State Rep. Joe Bustos and State Sen. Chip Campsen and the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff.

In January 2020, Dominion planned to remove 247 palmettos; the town of Sullivan’s Island was able to reduce that number to 122.

Protecting palmettos

The Sullivan’s Island Town Council has unanimously passed a resolution to honor 8-year-old Keegan Novak for his efforts to save as many palmettos as possible from being cut down because they interfere with Dominion Energy’s power lines. According to the resolution, the Sullivan’s Island Elementary School second-grader “conceived and implemented a highly effective, grass roots campaign to alert the public to the consequences of this planned palmetto eradication, featuring hand-drawn posters of a tree and the slogan “Don’t Cut ’Um Down.” The resolution was read aloud at the Council’s May 21 meeting by Mayor Pat O’Neil, right. It concluded: “Now, therefore be it resolved that the town of Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, honors Keegan Novak with its praise and appreciation for his efforts, with this resolution to become an official part of the proceedings of this duly assembled Council.” Keegan is the son of Sullivan’s Island Council member Justin

Novak.

Photo by Bridget Welch.

Photos by Rob Byko.

Turtle Team finds first loggerhead nest of the 2024 season

By Mary Pringle

For The Island Eye News

The first loggerhead nest of the 2024 season for the Island Turtle Team was laid in Wild Dunes at Port O Call on May 16. This is about the usual time we begin to see nests, even though many more had already been laid in our state. By May 22, four nests had been documented, including one at 48th Avenue, one at 202 Ocean Blvd. and another at 406 Ocean Blvd. Those two in the 400 and 200 blocks close to Breach Inlet were in the path of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers beneficial use project, where hundreds of cubic yards of sand are scheduled to be added to the shoreline starting in June. The eggs were relocated.

Nest #1 was discovered by team members Allen Owens, Bryan Stephens, Holly Barron and Laura Lovins, who patrol from the property owners’ beach house to Dewees Inlet. It contained 105 eggs. After a DNA sample was taken for our genetics research project, the nest was relocated off the flat beach to a safe dune nearby at the property owners’ beach house for incubation in the warmth of the sand.

Here is more information from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

Sea turtle clutches average 120 eggs and hatch after approximately 60 days. Nesting females may remain in South Carolina waters and continue to nest every two weeks, laying up to

six nests per season. Throughout this stressful time, the turtles also abstain from eating. South Carolina beachgoers can help the state’s sea turtles by keeping beaches clean, turning beachfront lights out to avoid disorienting turtles and giving all sea turtles and nests a wide and respectful berth when encountered on the beach.

Nesting season reminders

1. Report all sick/injured/dead sea turtles and nest disturbances to the SCDNR at 800-922-5431 so that staff or volunteers can respond as soon as possible. You can also call the police non-emergency line 843-886-6522.

2. Respect boating laws and boat cautiously, especially in small tidal creeks where sea turtles like to feed. Boat strikes have emerged as the leading cause of death for sea turtles in South Carolina.

3. Keep artificial lights off the beach at night during nesting season – this includes beachfront property lights and flash photography, which can disorient nesting mothers and hatchlings.

4. Always respect sea turtles by observing

them from a distance on the beach. Individuals who violate federal law by harming or interfering with sea turtles or their nests can be subject to civil penalties of up to $25,000 and up to a year’s imprisonment.

5. Keep our beaches and ocean clean by avoiding single-use plastics. Plastic bags and balloons are among the most common trash items found on South Carolina beaches and can cause injury or death when sea turtles mistake them for food.

Turtle Team members, left to right, Barbara Gobien, Holly Barron, Laura Lovins, Mary Pringle (kneeling), Bryan Stephens, Allen Owens, Ray Ann Osborne and Todd Murphy at Port O Call.

Battery Gadsden Cultural Center’s Roy Williams Lecture was a success

By Mike Walsh For The Island Eye News

Nearly 100 people gathered the evening of May 14 at Sunrise Presbyterian Church on Sullivan’s Island to hear the first Roy Williams Memorial Lecture on Historic Preservation. Presented by Battery Gadsden Cultural Center, this inaugural event featured local historic preservation expert Kris King. His presentation, titled “Saving Grace – Historic Homes of Sullivan’s Island,” focused on how the Island can not only appreciate but also preserve the unique historic homes that make up so much of the community’s fabric.

King’s background is impressive. A native of Aiken, South Carolina, he received his bachelor’s from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where he was awarded The Friends of the Arts Award for excellence in architectural history. He then earned his master of science in historic preservation from the University of Pennsylvania, with a concentration in preservation planning, building pathology, site analysis and real estate. King has served on the boards of numerous preservation and environmental groups, including the Preservation Society of Charleston, the Historic Charleston Foundation and the City of Charleston Green Committee. Currently, he is a lecturer in Clemson University’s Master of Science in Historic Preservation Program and serves as an adjunct professor in historic preservation at the College of Charleston.

King cited various pressures opposing preservation efforts, chief among them being development and tourism. As evidence of those forces, he showed many examples on the Charleston peninsula, where buildings have been built that were totally out of character for the city and locations where hundreds of Airbnbs operate illegally.

Turning to Sullivan’s Island, the speaker drew heavily on work done by Amelia Millar, whose master’s project – bit.ly/4bv6DD1 – extensively catalogued the types and configurations of typical island homes. In much the same way shown in Roy Williams’ book, “Sullivan’s Island – Images of America,” King showed examples of these “typologies” still existing on the island but emphasized that the number is dwindling and will continue to do so without active preservation efforts. He then briefly explained some of the more important aspects of the standards developed by the secretary of the interior for historic preservation, including such things as avoid-

ing the alteration of historic materials like siding, windows, shutters and woodwork. In a word, details matter.

King characterized historic Sullivan’s Island as having larger lots and smaller footprints, rich vernacular architecture, as well as “variety and whimsy.” His dos and don’ts were simple. Do understand the history and the houses and protect the limited historic resources you have. Don’t succumb to economic pressures, fall for fads, make changes without understanding them or sacrifice what makes this place so special. As King said, “Protect the character at all costs, or it will be gone before you know it.”

Kris King focused on how Sullivan’s Island can preserve its unique historic homes.

Nearly 100 people attended the first Roy Williams Memorial Lecture on Historic Preservation.

Photo by Rob Byko.

Photo by Rob Byko.

Cruising the Waterway

Members of the Wild Dunes Yacht Club enjoyed a spring cruise to Beaufort May 16 through May 19. Captains and crews boated on sailboats, motor cruisers, motorboats and one Ranger Tug down the Intracoastal Waterway to Beaufort’s Safe Harbor Marina. The purpose of the boating club is to encourage safe boating in all its forms, promote the skills of seamanship and navigation and enjoy the social and educational opportunities provided by the organization. A recent educational session was provided by the Great Loop Association. Members of the Great Loop circumnavigate the Eastern United States on the Atlantic Ocean and major inland rivers.

LENS partners with IOP Chamber

The Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce and the IOP Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support program have agreed to a strategic partnership aimed at promoting improved quality of life, increased public safety and support for the local hospitality industry.

The collaboration will strengthen each organization’s positive impact on IOP residents and the guests who visit the island, according to Chamber President Rod Turnage and LENS Director Ted Kinghorn. They both said they hope this alliance will set an example for other organizations and individuals to work together and “embrace kindness.”

Chartered in 2022, the vision of the IOP Chamber of Commerce is to foster an environment where

Council member graduates from Institute of Government

Sullivan’s Island Town Council member Justin Paul Novak has graduated from the Municipal Elected Officials Institute of Government. Graduates received their certificates during the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s Hometown Legislative Action Day in February.   Established in 1986, the Institute is a program of the Municipal Association of South Carolina that gives municipal officials a strong foundation for operating local governments. Participants learn about the role of elected officials and administrative staff and about the relationships between local, state and federal levels of government. The Institute includes two daylong sessions and three morning sessions and also offers credited online courses on an ongoing basis.

Elected officials must participate in more than 25 hours of classroom work to graduate from the Institute. The topics covered during the sessions include the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act; ethics and accountability; budgeting, planning and zoning; human resources; and economic development.

The Institute of Government is one of many educational and training opportunities that the Municipal Association offers.

residents, business owners and visitors all can thrive.

“Above all, the IOP Chamber is here to support and uplift island neighbors, the true heart and soul of this place,” according to Turnage.

Also established in 2022, the LENS Foundation IOP helps the local Police Department connect with thousands of youngsters and adults through enriching opportunities, supportive programs and community-driven events. The Foundation’s mission is to provide officers with the vital resources and support need-

ed to create lasting, positive bonds with the community members they serve. LENS also provides much-deserved recognition of police officers and funding for advanced training.

As part of the agreement, a LENS representative and the IOP Chamber president will serve as ex officio members of each other’s boards. In addition, expanded communications between the two organizations will include sharing calendar updates and website links; joint programs and sponsorships; and an expanded social media strategy.

Photo courtesy of Pamela Marsh.

Justin Novak

LENS IOP Banquet savors community, charity and the local Police Department

By Ada Jenkins

For

The Island Eye News

The 2024 LENS IOP Banquet at The Citadel Beach Club on May 15 was another unforgettable night, filled with community spirit, generosity and a shared vision for a safer, more family-friendly Isle of Palms. The event, organized by the LENS Foundation Isle of Palms, once again exceeded donation goals for the third year in a row, thanks to the community’s unwavering support and commitment.

Presented by Explore Charleston and Wild Dunes Resort and generously supported by platinum sponsors 56th Avenue, The Reddy Foundation and The Island Eye News, as well as an impressive lineup of gold and blue sponsors, the banquet showcased the incredible teamwork between businesses and individuals supporting the Foundation’s mission.

LENS dedicated the evening to honoring IOP’s law enforcement officers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the safety and well-being of the community. Their dedication was met with heartfelt gratitude and respect throughout the night.

The banquet featured the popular Taste of

the Island competition, where local restaurants wowed attendees with their culinary creations. Guests savored dishes from Sweet T’s Island Kitchen, Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, Café Paname, Simmons Seafood, The Refuge, Long Island Café, Harris Teeter, Coastal Provisions and The Boathouse.

From crab cakes and oysters to lettuce-wrapped lobster rolls and tuna poke, every dish was a delight. The winning dishes, chosen by attendees, were:

1st place – Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, for its short ribs and grits.

2nd place – Long Island Café, for its stuffed shrimp with lemon butter sauce.

3rd place – Sweet T’s Island Kitchen for its fried chicken, Charleston red rice and mini cheesecake bites.

Guests also enjoyed a silent auction with items donated by local businesses, a 50/50 raffle and entertainment provided by Small Opera, adding a touch of elegance and charm to the event.

IOP Police Chief Kevin Cornett delivered the keynote speech, recognizing May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day, which honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. He reminded those in attendance that the IOP Police Department “will always honor and remember our fallen brothers and sisters who paid the ultimate sacrifice.”

As usual, the LENS Banquet was a huge success, not just as a fundraiser but as a celebration of the community spirit that defines the island. It was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when residents, businesses and local government unite for a common cause.

A big congratulations to Kitty Riley and Kathy Shook, who co-chaired the event, along with the dedicated volunteers on the LENS Banquet Committee, led by Ted Kinghorn.

MyLo News hosts VIP

By Ada Jenkins

For The Island Eye News

MyLo News owner Rom Reddy and Island Eye News consultant Lynn Pierotti were the platinum sponsors of the annual IOP LENS Foundation Fundraising Banquet, held May 15 at the Citadel Beach House on the Isle of Palms. Before the main event commenced, they took a moment to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the advertising and marketing partners who have played an integral role in their success.

MyLo News hosted an exclusive VIP happy hour at Coda Del Pesce, transforming a gorgeous Wednesday afternoon on IOP into a celebration of camaraderie and collaboration. Against the backdrop of breathtaking coastal views, attendees were treated to hors d’oeuvres while a sommelier

happy hour prior to LENS Foundation Banquet

guided guests through a sophisticated wine-tasting experience. As glasses clinked and conversation flowed, Reddy took a moment to underscore the importance of nurturing lasting relationships and forging new partnerships with local businesses, both on the islands and beyond.

With each sip and every bite, the VIP happy hour served as a poignant reminder of the invaluable connections that underpin the local news landscape. It was a moment to recognize the collective effort and unwavering support of advertising and marketing partners who have

contributed to the growth and success of MyLo News. Looking ahead, the MyLo team is committed to fostering these partnerships and continuing to deliver impactful news coverage that resonates with the community.

Coda del Pesce, which means “tail of the fish” in Italian, is a contemporary Italian restaurant on IOP’s Front Beach.

Photo by Kelli Ferguson.

Left: Victim’s Advocate and Emgency Management and Accreditation Corporal Amanda Postell and Detective Joseph Tumminelli. Right: Dr. Jeffrey Johnson taking a photo of his wife, Jennifer Johnson. Below: Carol Bogosian and “LENS Whisperer” Ted Kinghorn.

Below: Mike Powers, IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds and Laurie Pounds.

Right: Jim Thompson, IOP Police Chief Kevin Cornett and Laura Anderson.

Right: Isle of Palms Fire Marshal Sean Harshaw.

Above: Some of IOP’s finest.

Right: State Rep. Joe Bustos.

Photos by Bennett Coleman.

IOP Exchange Club flies flags to honor veterans

By Robbie Berg

For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Exchange Club’s Americanism Committee erected 75 American flags for

its annual Memorial Day fundraiser, which has become a community favorite and an inspiration to see these flags flying high in honor of our veterans.

Club from May 22 to May 29, with a tag noting each honoree’s name, rank and other information. An added feature for the community, sponsors and donors is a laminated sheet that lists the honored veterans in alphabetical order along the seawall walkway and dock walkway. Many family members took pictures in front of their flags as a reminder of their loved one’s service to our country. Many stories could be told by the families of their sacrifice and service.

Outreach and the VA Hospital.

Thank you to our fallen veterans and their families for their ultimate sacrifice and to our other veterans who have served our country throughout the years at home and across the world. The Flags for Heroes Fundraiser raised $7,500. Thank you to our sponsors and donors for your support of our veterans: Gold sponsor – Dimi Matouchev, Edward Jones; silver sponsors - Ansley’s Angels LLC, Dunes Properties and Cindy Albrecht.

If you would like to sponsor a flag for Veterans Day 2024, visit IOPflagsforheroes.com. Only 60 flags are still available out of 150 – 90 already have been sponsored.

Members and tourists alike got to view 75 flags waving in the wind at the IOP Exchange

and Holy City

The Americanism Committee has provided more than $25,000 in donations this year to veterans organizations including the Fisher House, the Tri-County Veterans Support Network, the Vantage Point Foundation, Project Street

Photo courtesy of the IOP Exchange Club.

Around the Islands

ONGOING

WHAT: Sullivan’s Island Story Share

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island

MORE INFO: The Poe Branch Library is partnering with the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center in 2024 to collect stories of Sullivan’s Island life. Every month will feature a new writing prompt to guide your story. Stories can be as short as a paragraph or several pages. If your story features characters or memories of Sullivan’s Island, we invite you to share these at our Island Story Share sessions and add them to Battery Gadsden and the South Carolina History Room’s repository of island stories. To learn more and get this month’s prompt, stop by the library or email poe@ccpl.org.

WHAT: IOP Cleanup Crew – Summer Monday Night litter sweeps

WHERE: Sign in at Front Beach, next to Coconut Joe’s, along the beach access in the 1100 block of Ocean Boulevard

WHEN: 6-7 p.m., Mondays, June 3 through Sept. 2 - arrive by 6:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Help keep the coast clean while collecting data for South Carolina Aquarium’s litter journal. All ages welcome - children should be with an adult. Supplies provided. No advance registration. Clean the beach for 30 minutes or more. Enjoy a restaurant discount after and get a magnet for free parking in city lots during future litter sweeps. Email susanhillsmith@gmail.com if you are bringing a group of 15 or more. Follow IOP Cleanup Crew at facebook.com/IOPCleanup.

WHAT: IOP Cleanup Crew – Wednesday Breakfast Club litter sweeps

WHERE: Sign in at Front Beach, next to Coconut Joe’s, along the beach access in the 1100 block of Ocean Boulevard

WHEN: 7-8 a.m. Wednesdays, May 29 through Aug. 28 - arrive by 7:30 a.m.

MORE INFO: Help keep the coast clean while collecting data for South Carolina Aquarium’s litter journal. All ages welcome – children should be with an adult. Supplies provided. No advance registration. Clean the beach or streetscape/parking areas for 30 minutes or more. Enjoy a restaurant discount after and get a magnet for free parking in city lots during future litter sweeps. Email susanhillsmith@gmail.com if you are bringing a group of 15 or more. Follow IOP Cleanup Crew at facebook.com/IOPCleanup.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

WHAT: Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition WHERE: Front Beach, Isle of Palms WHEN: Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

MORE INFO:The 34th Annual Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition is free and open to those who would like to show off their sand-sculpting abilities. To learn more: iop.net or 843-886-8294.

WEDNESDAYS, JUNE 12 and JUNE 26

WHAT: Camp Crafts for Tweens and Teens

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

MORE INFO: Drop in for fun crafting at the library. On June 12, make decorative paper flowers and vines. On June 26, create your own Camp CCPL badge using bottle caps. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

WHAT: So you want to be a Park Ranger

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 10:30 a.m.

MORE INFO: Park Ranger Kaley Crawford talks about careers in National Parks, as well as camping how-tos and how to enjoy the national parks and historic sites in the Charleston area. A friendship bracelet craft will follow the program. Families welcome. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/ Sullivans-island.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

WHAT: Camp Journals with Miss Heidi WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 3-5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Drop in to design your own camp journal to record all your summer memories. Ages 5+. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20

WHAT: Art at the Rec

WHERE: Isle of Palms Recreation Department

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Admission is free. Mediums include watercolor, acrylic, pastels, oil, etching, sketching, mixed media and photography. Featured artists are Mimi Wood, Becky Thompson, Lily Matheson, Barbara Bernstein, Mark Thompson, Norma Morris Ballentine, MJ Obrien, Sharon Ray and Jack Gracey of Isle of Palms; Grace Stenhouse and Robin McCrae of Mount Pleasant; Barbara Lassiter of Sullivan’s Island; and Giselle Harrington, Rachel Basye and Dennis Fulbright of Charleston. To learn more: IOP.net.

WHAT: IOP Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam

WHERE: Isle of Palms Recreation Department

WHEN: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

MORE INFO: The Isle of Palms Recreation Department will kick off its 2024 Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam series. In addition to artists, crafters, specialty food vendors, local farmers, local vendors and family-friendly activities, the event will now feature a food truck jam aimed at providing a cultural cuisine experience. To learn more: IOP.net.

June 14 2:13 a.m./3:05 p.m. 8:29 a.m./8:57 p.m.