Residents speak up at at IOP Council meeting
By Brian Sherman
For The Island Eye News
With an election that could drastically change the makeup of the Isle of Palms City Council and alter the way short-term rentals are licensed just two weeks away, local residents took the opportunity to advocate for their side of the issue.
During the citizens’ comments portion of the Council’s Oct. 24 meeting, three local residents spoke in favor of a referendum that will be on the Nov. 7 ballot and would limit to 1,600 the number of investment STRs on the island. Another speaker criticized Council members who he said have claimed that the city is operating at a deficit and also chided the Council concerning the salaries paid to public safety personnel and the administration for allegedly releasing confidential information to the public.
“The attempts to confuse and divide this community are beyond belief,” former Council Member
Randy Bell told city leaders. “On Feb. 28, the five-member majority opted to stop any and all discussion on a subject of extreme importance to the residents of IOP. What five of you failed to understand was just how determined your constituents were to be heard. We will now be heard, yes or no, on Nov. 7.”
Bell went on to claim that the four Council candidates who are supporting the referendum – Scott Pierce, Elizabeth Campsen, Tim Ahmuty and Brian Duffy – have not received campaign contributions from groups that are in favor of the referendum.
His presentation as cut short by Council member Jan Anderson because he mentioned a specific Council member – Jimmy Ward – apparently a violation of the Council Code of Conduct. Bell was permitted to submit his entire speech as part of the record, including a copy of post made by Ward on the Isle of Palms Community Facebook group page. Ward insinuated that the candidates who
support the referendum are controlled by something called “the powerful national hotel lobby.”
“What happened to the unanimously passed Council Code of Conduct that stated acceptable use of social media and a level of respect and dignity to all?” Bell asked the Council. “It would (Continued on page 4)
Sullivan’s Island seeks to replace retiring town administrator
By Brian Sherman
For The Island Eye News
How long will it take to find a suitable replacement for a public servant who has spent more than two decades as Sullivan’s Island’s town administrator?
Andy Benke, who has held his current job since June 2003, will be retiring sometime around the end of this year. A committee that includes Benke, Mayor Pat O’Neil, Mayor Pro Tem Justin Novak and Administration Committee Chair Jody Latham eventually will come up with recommendations for the entire Council to consider. How long will that process take? As long as necessary, according to O’Neil.
“We’ve got some experienced department heads in all departments at this time. We’ve Continued on page 2)
Sullivan’s will benefit from Corps project
By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News
The disappearing beach at the southwest end of the Isle of Palms has been a major issue in recent months, but, as part of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project that is scheduled to get underway early next year, the Sullivan’s Island beach also will receive an upgrade.
At their regularly scheduled meeting Oct. 17, members of the Sullivan’s Island Town Council heard from Corps Project Manager Jacob Kyzar concerning a beneficial use project that will take sand previously dredged from the Intracoastal Waterway and transport it to both beaches. He said approximately 175,000 cubic yards of sand will be placed in three locations at the east end (Continued on page 11)
As the Nov. 7 election approaches, the Isle of Palms is covered up with campaign signs – the corner of 28th Avenue and Hartnett Boulevard, at the IOP Rec Center, is an example. Voters will decide the fate of a referendum that would limit the number of investment short-term rental licenses to 1,600. They also will elect four City Council members from among Tim Ahmuty, Elizabeth Campsen, Ashley Carroll, Brian Duffy, Scott Pierce, Kevin Popson, Rusty Streetman and Jimmy Ward.
Photo by Brian Sherman.
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Smith and friends presented with Spirit of the Island Award
By Brian Sherman
For The Island Eye News
Susan Hill Smith, co-founder and leader of the Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew, has been honored with the Spirit of the Island Award.
The award was presented to Smith and a large contingent of her crew at the IOP City Council’s Oct. 24 meeting. The Spirit of the Island recognizes an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the well-being of the island. According to IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds, “In typical Susan Hill Smith fashion, she wanted us to recognize the whole IOP Cleanup Crew.”
Smith, a former IOP Council member, was nominated for the award by Sarah Parker Daniel.
“Isle of Palms’ most visible asset is our beach, and no one on this island protects our treasured resource better than Susan Hill Smith and the Cleanup Crew,” the nomination form said. “Prior to Susan’s cleanup campaign, our beach and our coastal wildlife were in peril. Thanks to Susan’s steadfast effort, our island’s treasures are being protected. No one exemplifies the spirit of IOP more than Susan Hill Smith.”
Pounds pointed out that since the summer of 2018, the Cleanup Crew has collected and documented 170,000 items of litter, with support from the South Carolina Aquarium’s Conservation Team.
“They have engaged thousands of volunteers from IOP and throughout the Lowcountry and currently hold more than 40 litter cleanups a year,” the mayor said.
Lowcountry Kitchen; and “all the island businesses we have engaged as sponsors.”
“I cannot leave out the thousands of volunteers from across the Lowcountry and beyond who have joined
During her acceptance speech, Smith thanked Cleanup Crew co-founder Katrina Limbach; City Administrator Desiree Fragoso; Kelly Thorvalson, Linda Rowe and the rest of the Aquarium’s Conservation Team; Rebecca Stephenson; Howard Hogue – also known as Beach Santa; Paula Kennedy and Team Blue from South Carolina Federal Credit Union; the Windjammer and Acme
Town administrator
Continued from page 1
got a good group of people who know what they’re doing,” the mayor commented. “If we have to go a little longer, Andy has done a good job of getting us to that point.”
O’Neil said the town is working with the Municipal Association of South Carolina “to get the word out and help us with formatting the announcement.”
“They have a lot of experience with these things,” he said, adding that the committee will begin interviewing prospective candidates “as soon as we get an adequate number of applications.”
A posting on the Sullivan’s Island website notes that applicants should have the following qualifications: excellent communication and relational skills, written and oral, as regards residents, employees, Council members, business owners and media; MPA preferred - four-year degree required; at least five years municipal government experience required, preferably in South Carolina
us and all the other people who clean up on their own time,” Smith said. “For some, including Sarah Parker Daniel, it’s part of their regular routine, something they do nearly every day.”
“If you pick up litter on this island, you are a member of the Isle of Palms Cleanup crew, and this recognition is for all of you, too,” she concluded.
or in coastal Georgia or North Carolina; understanding of municipal government finances and budgets; at least five years management experience, including project and contract management, as well as vendor selection and contract negotiation; experience with disaster and crisis management; understanding of coastal community challenges from summertime traffic to hurricane preparedness; ability to navigate among resident needs, Council directions, employee concerns and, as PIO, media interests; experience in working with various local, county, state and federal agencies; familiarity with storm water management; zoning and land use experience.
Benke, who grew up on Sullivan’s Island and lived there for 66 years, said it’s appropriate for him to serve on the committee that will help choose his replacement.
“I’ve done this job for almost 22 years. Nobody knows it better than me. I know the ins and outs of the job,” he said.
“Andy is going to be a very difficult act to follow,” O’Neil concluded.
Susan Hill Smith, right, was honored with the Spirit of the Island Award at the Oct. 24 Isle of Palms City Council meeting. A large contingent of the IOP Cleanup Crew was on hand, including Kelly James Thorvalson, left, senior manager of conservation programs at the South Carolina Aquarium, and Cleanup Crew co-founder Katrina Limbach.
Photo by Mic Smith Photography.
Residents speak up
appear that its selective application only applies to Katie Miars.”
Last October, a divided Council voted 5-4 to hold a disciplinary hearing for Council member Miars for allegedly violating the Code of Conduct by writing an op-ed piece that was published in the Sept. 9, 2022, issue of The Island Eye News. According to a statement Mayor Phillip Pounds read at a Council meeting four days later, Miars directly quoted “portions of private attorney-client communications that the city attorney provided to the City Council in a memorandum dated June 9, 2022.”
The issue apparently hasn’t been resolved.
Another speaker at the Oct. 24, 2023, meeting, Laura Lovins, said IOP residents “are being given inaccurate and even convoluted information by one side of the argument.” She said claims that city revenues will suffer, property taxes will rise and local businesses will be negatively impacted if the referendum passes are “falsehoods and a scare tactic.”
“The other side has suggested that 1,173 people who signed the STR petition did not know what they were doing. I’m stunned at the level of absurdity of that allegation,” she said.
Les Kutcher lamented that “those of us who are full-time residents and registered voters and who support the referendum that imposes a fair and reasonable cap on STRs have been labeled a special interest group by those who oppose any STR cap.”
“Those that so stridently oppose the cap are, for the most part, well-funded, deep-pocketed commercial entities that include but are not limited to the Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce, CTAR, Isle of Palms United, Isle of Palms Nation and the Wild Dunes Resort,” he added.
Gary Nestler, meanwhile, told the Council he wanted to talk about “money, resources and integrity.”
“Our City Council boasts we have a $1.2 million surplus, $200,000 a month in interest and $41 million in the bank, yet some Council members say that we’re operating at a deficit,” he said. “With so much divisiveness, residents don’t know who to believe or what to believe. City Council members spewing out numbers at an Indy 500 pace to impress constituents is simply disingenuous. This misinformation does have unintended consequences. Sleight-of-hand techniques are downright despicable.”
Nestler also pointed out that public safety personnel on IOP are paid an average of $10,000 to $15,000 a year less than those in surrounding communities.
“One other thing needs to be brought to light that deserves a full investigation,” he added. “The sharing of nonpublic and confidential documents, potentially personnel and financial records, with select citizens and former Council members, which then get displayed on social media. This raises serious concerns about breach of public trust, abuse of power and challenges the very integrity of our city governance. If you’re not up for the job, then just simply resign.”
Home economics for kids and more
By Katherine Berry
For The Island Eye News
Home economics is not a lost art here on the island, and it’s happening at the Rec. A six-week program, open to kids in grades K through 5, will set up participants for success on how to host a gathering, interact and mingle with others, set a table and comparatively shop prices to get the best deals.
Classes are scheduled on Mondays from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 6 through Dec. 11.
In addition, Capital Kids will take place right after. This program is all about teaching kids in grades K through 5 how to budget, how to spend, how to save and how to give. The program is open and accessible for everyone, on and off the island, and takes place Mondays, starting Nov. 6 and through Dec. 11, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The cost for both programs is $150 for residents and $155 for nonresidents. Kids can expect a unique experience as they learn interactive and interpersonal life skills that will last for the rest of their lives.
For more information or to sign up, visit IOP.net.
On Deck at The Rec
Public meeting set for Corps beach renourishment project
By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News
Isle of Palms residents will have the opportunity to find out everything there is to know about a major beach renourishment project at the southwest end of the island at a public meeting Nov. 13.
The meeting, concerning a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project that is expected to bring around 500,000 cubic yards of sand to the IOP beach, is slated for 5 p.m. at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. The sand was previously dredged out of the Intracoastal Waterway. The project is scheduled for completion sometime between January and June of 2024.
Meanwhile, the Isle of Palms is taking a three-pronged attack to protect 10 properties that have been seriously affected by erosion. City Administrator Desiree Fragoso told IOP Council members at their regularly scheduled Oct. 24 meeting that 25,000 to 30,000 cubic yards of sand had been trucked to the beach, sand scraping was underway and sandbags were expected to be placed Oct. 25 at properties from 120 to 206 Ocean Blvd.
She added that some residents might be interested in paying to install sandbags to protect their properties. The Council voted 7-2 at a special meeting Oct. 10 to allow residents as far north as 914 Ocean Blvd. to circumvent a city ordinance that prohibits “hard erosion control structures” within 250 feet of the high-water mark of the Atlantic Ocean. Two Council members, Blair Hahn and Kevin Popson, voted against the ordinance, which will expire after 60 days but can be extended by the Council.
In other action Oct. 24, the Council voted unanimously to pay Trident Construction and McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture $68,267, and
IOP seeks feedback about quality of life and tourism
By Chaundra Yudchenko For The Island Eye News
Feedback from local residents, business owners and visitors will be the main driver behind a community enrichment plan that will be developed by the city of Isle of Palms, in collaboration with Explore Charleston, the College of Charleston and The McNair Group.
The travel and hospitality industries are vital to the island’s identity and economy, but the project aims to maintain an equilibrium between tourism and residents’ quality of life, which plays a significant role in tourism’s success and is critical to the IOP community’s overall well-being.
The community enrichment plan will involve obtaining substantial community input and data that will guide the city on how to productively deal with the complexities of regional population growth. These efforts will help IOP thrive as it strives to be the most sustainable, family-friendly beach community in South Carolina.
Data will be collected through surveys, focus groups and large listening sessions.
The first step in the process will be to gather as much information as possible from the community through a survey that will take only
possibly another $9,867, to develop conceptual design options for renovating City Hall. Based on input from the city staff, Trident will come up with four options: comprehensive renovation; partial renovation; necessity-focused renovation that meets only critical needs; and a new building.
Director of Building, Planning and Zoning Douglas Kerr explained that city code specifically prohibits IOP from taking competitive bids for design work.
“This first stage is basically all design work, so the way we’ve done it is dictated by our code. We would have the option at subsequent stages. We could do it competitively then, but, at this stage, it’s really just working through concepts with us,” he said.
The Council also voted unanimously not to accept any of the profit from the Oct. 7 IOP Connector Run. Under the bylaws of the event, Mount Pleasant and Isle of Palms each receive 10% of the proceeds, which amounted to around $8,200 last year, Mayor Phillip Pounds said. The race benefits 11 local nonprofits. The city contributed a $7,500 sponsor fee this year.
The Council also authorized the consumption of beer and wine during the LOWVELO Bike Ride Nov. 4 and approved a proclamation declaring Nov. 16 as World Pancreatic Cancer Day in IOP.
a few minutes to complete but will play an important role in guiding the process.
Step two involves forming a committee comprised of residents, business owners, city leaders and tourism experts that will be responsible for developing recommendations that will enhance livability and tourism management and facilitate community enrichment on a continuous basis.
The data and insight that are collected will be used to develop recommendations for an ongoing plan that will foster livability, sustainability and responsible economic development.
“This project will shape how we balance the well-being of residents and the island as a whole while maintaining economic growth,” said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. “Working with the entire community is vital, and all feedback is valued. There are many ways we can improve the city, and this community enrichment plan is a step toward finding the most effective solutions.”
For updates on the community enrichment plan, visit iop. net. For more information, contact Chaundra Yudchenko, public relations and tourism coordinator, at chaundray@iop.net.
One lucky dog
If only we could talk face to face, you’d know what I was thinking, since we Frenchies have a way with expressions. But I’m very happy to share my story. Life rolled me into good times from the get go. I was imported, being a specialty breed in the Czech Republic, where I was CEO of studs. Yes, that is correct. I was able to use my equipment to my fullest abilities for several years until I was retired and then adopted by my wonderful family on Isle of Palms.
I’m de-studded but I am more accomplished than some of my other friends, and I’ve still got game with the ladies – but I’m a little more laidback now. I’m more into my yoga mornings, and every day is like a spa day. I sleep about 20 hours a day, but, when I’m awake, I’m either being groomed, sunbathing, eating or off on an adventure around the island.
I don’t really exercise, but when I’m ready to roll, you’ll know. I just give you that Frenchie look, and you know it’s time to go.
Since I don’t really bark, I let my parents know I’m ready to do something by simply standing and staring. Once I’ve selected my vessel of choice for my afternoon excursion, I’ll simple get into boss mode and you’ll know. Some days it’s the bike basket with Mom and other days it’s the golf cart, where I sit in the front and Dad gets in the back.
My emotions are all in my eyes, but, if you look real close, you’ll see my honeybun tail shaking with happiness, and I also purr. My ears are curled back and I’m in the zone. Whatever you’re doing, don’t stop. … this is the good stuff.
We likely won’t meet on the beach. I’m more of the bad boy on the back side of the island. You’ll know it’s me by the handsome expression and the Senior Chief branding my mom and dad have. When we meet, expect to be mesmerized by my affection. I love my life and all the people surrounding me. I am such a lucky dog.
Owner: Tammy and Steve Stubbs
Dog’s name: Senior Chief Age: 6 years
Breed: French Bulldog (Frenchie)
Favorite toy: Hedgehog
Unusual quirk: Lip Mackin’ Vet: Dr. Shong - Sandy Cove
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.
VOTE TIM AHMUTY
FOR ISLE OF PALMS CITY COUNCIL
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the wonderful residents of IOP who have made this place their home. Meeting and listening to you has been incredible. I have gained valuable insights and have been deeply touched by this journey. After engaging with the incredible people of IOP, I am more enthusiastic and determined than ever to confront the challenges that our community will face in the coming months. If elected, I pledge to channel this enthusiasm into representing the citizens of IOP to the best of my abilities.
We're facing significant challenges in preserving our quality of life and family neighborhoods. Change is difficult; familiar faces now lack a vision for the future. Council members who once listened to our concerns now ignore us, pushing citizens to petition and form grassroots efforts. While we recognize the threats, the Council does not. Don't be complacent; well-funded special interest groups with deep pockets do not see IOP as a neighborhood, they only see money to be made at our expenses. Tough decisions must be made.
The most important decision: Elect new members to Council, people that will put IOP residents first. Vote for Ahmuty, Campsen, Duffy, and Pierce, so that we can turn campaign promises into results:
Maintain an ISTR cap of 1600 for a balanced mix of primary homes, rentals, and second homes.
Renew existing licenses and exempt commercial-zoned properties from the cap.
No cap on 4% properties.
Address inheritance issues.
Unify the council against outside interference.
Enforce ordinances consistently for noise, trash, parking, and traffic.
Solve daily visitor parking and congestion issues with paid parking and digital signs.
Restore the connector to its original design.
Implement responsive beach management.
Lobby to make ATAX rules more flexible, shifting from promotion to tourism management.
I'll faithfully follow our comprehensive plan with its mission: "to make IOP the most sustainable, family-friendly beach community."
This election could mark a turning point: from a unique residential family beach community, impossible to replicate, to a characterless resort town.
Will your legacy be one that added IOP to the list of places where they "paved paradise and put up a parking lot"? Or will it be one that saved paradise, leaving a better island for future generations to cherish? Because once we lose our residential character, it's gone forever.
By Katherine Berry For The Island Eye News
Another unique fitness opportunity is coming under the oaks at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department.
If you haven’t noticed the giant concrete block in front of the Rec, then perhaps you should swing by to see the new footprint of an outdoor fitness court pioneered by the National Fitness Campaign and the city of Isle of Palms.
It will feature seven movement stations: core, squat, push, lunge, pull, agility and bend. It’s designed to use your body weight to achieve an ideal workout. If you feel like you have no idea what to do to achieve said workout, the great news is that there’s an app for that. Downloading the app gives you options to use each station for seven minutes. You can go through their workouts solo or with a buddy. The great news it’s outside and therefore open all the time. The bad news is that there are no more excuses in achieving your wellness goals.
IOP Recreation Director Karrie Ferrell started researching the National Fitness Campaign several years ago, and, by the end of November, it will be one of only two in the state of South Carolina. When asked what motivated her to research this unique fitness court, she stated, “We watched how people used the grounds to train, and this template of fitness fell in line with our fitness goals for everyone. Plus, our weather fits, so let’s get outside.”
Another unique opportunity presented by the Rec to get your workouts in without venturing beyond the bridges. Installation should be completed by the end of the month. Come on out and get your fitness on.
PLATFORM
PROTECT 2022 CONSERVATION & DENSITY ORDINANCES
SENSIBLE SHORT-TERM RENTAL LIMITATIONS
PLANNING WITH A PURPOSE
FROM PLANNING TO POLICY
ENDORSED SKILLS
Conducts thorough research and lets facts inform her opinions and decisions.
Approaches issues with an open mind & humility.
Committed to preserving quality of life for island residents.
Cares deeply and has the best interests of IOP at heart.
JEFF SIMON, Former Isle of Palms City Council
"Elizabeth has served our community for several yea rs on the Board of Zoning Appeals. She lets the facts inform her opinions and does so with a fair and open mind. She has demonstrated a solid commitment to the preservation of the quality of life in our city and understands the complexity of the issues and the de mands our community faces."
JOHN MOYE, Former Isle of Palms City Council
“I challenge anyone to find a representative who is more thoughtful, thorough, and dedicated. Elizabeth consistently shows up to meeti ngs with incredible amounts of research and prior reflection. I've also seen her a pproach every issue with an open mind and a humility rarely seen in civic leaders."
JAN ANDERSON, Isle of Palms City Council
"She is by far the most qualified new candidate. He r breadth and depth of knowledge on current IOP issues is astounding and I find myself often learning from Elizabeth the background of an item on our agenda."
KATIE MIARS, Isle of Palms City Council
“I have been amazed by her incredible knowledge of all things Isle of Palms. Elizabeth is fully informed on every issue important to the resi dents and if she does not know a fact off the top of her head, she knows how to find it.”
JOHN BOGOSIAN, Isle of Palms City Council
I cannot imagine a more qualified candidate. Eliza beth and the Campsen family have a long history on IOP and have a unique perspective o f the changes that have occurred over the past 60 years. Her involvement with the City o ver the past years, including being a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals, has allowed her to gain a great grasp of the current issues facing the Isle of Palms. Elizabeth is always prepared and makes informed, well thought out decisions. She has an incredible sense of integrity and ethics. More than anything, Elizabeth will always fight for residents to maintain a quality of life on the Island that has been enjoyed by so many generations in the past.
ENDORSED BY ISLE OF PALMS RESIDENTS
DR. SANDRA BROTHERTON
Isle of Palms Resident & Member of Environmental Advisory Committee
“I especially appreciate Elizabeth’s thoughtful lea dership. She seeks out information and gathers data on issues, weighs alternatives, co nsiders possible outcomes and develops reasonable positions. She’s approachable a nd engaged, cares deeply for this community, and is committed to governing well."
RAY BURNS
Isle of Palms Resident & Member of IOP Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee
"I am convinced Elizabeth has the best interests of IOP residents as a priority. I’ve observed her numerous times addressing City Council during the citizen comments portion of Council meetings and found her to be a g reat communicator and clearly understands the issues she is discussing."
SUZANNE NAGELSKI
Isle of Palms Resident & Member of IOP Planning Commission
“Elizabeth's dedication is not only evident in her voluntary service to our City, but also in her adeptness at navigating the intricacies of t he Board of Zoning Appeals. Her remarkable efficiency, attention to detail, and evi dent competence are exemplified by her contributions.”
GLENN THORNBURG
PLEASE VOTE FOR ELIZABETH ON NOVEMBER 7 SO SHE CAN PUT HER SKILLS TO WORK!
CAMPSEN
For IOP City Council
Isle of Palms Resident & Member of the Board of Zon ing Appeals for 10 Years
"Elizabeth does extensive research on every petitio n, whether it is a major challenge to a statute or a minor home office request. She alway s shares it with the committee then listens to all other comments, pro and con, before making a decision."
JOHN & DANA LANIGAN
Isle of Palms Residents
"Elizabeth has the compassion and diplomatic skill to help heal the divide created in our community and balance the competing interests in ou r Island resources in a sustainable way going forward."
Elizabeth Campsen for City Council
Sullivan’s Island Council commends teens who saved swimmer
By Brian Sherman
For The Island Eye News
Two 15-year-old Sullivan’s Island residents who risked their lives to save a swimmer in peril during Labor Day weekend have received commendations from the Town Council, State Sen. Chip Campsen and Gov. Henry McMaster.
At an Oct. 17 meeting, the Council unanimously passed a proclamation extending “gratitude and appreciation” to Zack Barnes and Wesley Coles, who, on Sept. 4, noticed two swimmers in distress “and acted without hesitation or without regard for their personal safety to render aid to the victims.”
In addition to certificates of achievement from the South Carolina Senate, Barnes and Coles were awarded the Order of the Silver Crescent by the governor – the state’s most prestigious service award recognizing “a remarkable achievement or action of dedicated community service or volunteerism.”
“I want to express my appreciation for what you did, the way you risked your own lives to save the lives of another,” Campsen told Barnes and Coles at the Oct. 17 meeting. “There’s no greater gift that anyone can give than to put their life at risk to save the life of another.”
According to a statement provided to the Sullivan’s Island Police Department by Barnes, a sophomore at Wando High School, he and Coles built a raft out of plywood and surfboards and
floated it past the sandbar “where the waves were breaking so we could jump off and do flips.” They spotted two men farther out in the ocean who seemed to be struggling. Coles swam to them to see if they needed assistance, while Barnes paddled over with one of the surfboards.
“When I arrived, there was only one guy in the water with Wesley. When I got over there, him and Wesley floated on the board, and I swam back to the raft. We met up and floated on our raft. We tried to swim back, but we were really far from shore,” Barnes said. “I stood on the raft and waved my arms for what felt like forever and yelled out for help.”
the next day and came to find out the cousin drowned.”
“When I got to where they were, only one of the men had surfaced,” said Coles, a sophomore at Porter Gaud High School. “I grabbed a hold of the man to keep his head above water. He was not able to speak or swim at that point. He was just gasping for air.”
“We came to find out that the man we rescued want out there to help his 17-year-old cousin,” he added. “I went home because I had school
Barnes, Coles and the man whose life they saved were returned to the shore by Sullivan’s Island Fire and Rescue.
Sullivan’s Island Mayor Pro Tem Justin Novak, right, reads a proclamation honoring two local teens who risked their lives to save a swimmer in distress: Wesley Coles, left, and Zack Barnes.
It would be an honor to continue serving residents on the Isle of Palms City Council. I am humbled and energized by y our support, input, and unwavering care for the future of our ho me.
YES FOR SCOTT PIERCE
My job is to represent you, so that your voice is c learly heard from the Isle of Palms to Columbia and reflected through sou nd public policy.
My commitment and goals remain straightforward: Protect our quality of life.
Provide proactive, respectful, objective, and accou ntable leadership.
Continue to be transparent and responsive.
Keep our community and environment safe.
The choice is very clear among candidates. You can choose:
RESIDENTS FIRST
A year and a half ago, I enthusiastically wrote a letter to The Island Eye News and to all my personal IOP voter friends supporting Scott Pierce for Council. He was the right choice then and I believe even more so now. Scott’s achievements are many and important to our quality of life on the Island. He listens, evaluates, and acts with our collective best interests at heart. He is energized for another term, and we will all be the beneficiaries of his effort.
John Cipkala Isle of Palms Resident
From the first time I met him, I knew he was the type of person we need on Council.
Scott has a great analytical mind. He loves facts and numbers and he is willing to put in the time and effort to understand the meaning behind the numbers. He is also reasonable and open minded. While he has strong opinions he is not afraid to look at the issues from all sides and compromise when it is in the best interest of the city.
Katie Miars
Scott is totally transparent, so we, as voters, know that he will continue to do what he promises. He understands the critical island issues beyond the surface because he spends endless time researching, talking with other leaders on this island as well as other barrier islands, he travels to Columbia to discuss pertinent issues with the state government, and he spends endless hours talking with those he represents, and he has common sense.
Steve & Carly David
Isle of Palms Residents
Scott has a strong moral compass which directs him in and out of Council chambers. He is honest, he says what he means and follows it up with appropriate actions. He is authe ntic. Scott is always Scott. No pretense. He is loyal.
He loves the island and her residents and gives bac k in any way he can. Scott loves his family, both his person al family, and his island family of residents and friends.
Sandy Ferencz Former Isle of Palms City Council
I am strongly endorsing Scott Pierce’s reelection for Isle of Palms City Council. I currently serve with Scott on Council, and he has consistently lived up to his commitment to be an advocate for residents' quality of life in the face of explosive growth in our surrounding area.
This city needs Scott Pierce for another 4 years. Please join me in voting for Scott on November 7th
John Bogosian Isle of Palms City Council
I previously endorsed Scott based on his experience on the planning commission and I have watched him exceed expectations while on Council. Scott has a long list of traits that make him an incredible representative for the island, but most of all, I know he is working for the best interest of those of us who plan to live and work here for many years to come. I can trust him to take an objective, data-driven approach to understanding anything that arises in the future.
John Moye Former Isle of Palms City Council
Isle of Palms City Council
Soul Shine Studios Spotlight
Will Hoge at the Windjammer
By Vince Iwinski For The Island Eye News
The Windjammer continued an incredible year of music with Will Hoge on Nov. 2. Hoge’s 21st-century rock ‘n’ roll makes music for roadhouses and rallies, car stereos and dive-bar jukeboxes, Saturday night hell-raising and Sunday morning comedowns.
His latest release, “Wings On My Shoes,” is Hoge’s 12th studio album. Soul Shine caught up with Will while working in the studio this week.
Soul Shine: What are some of your favorite moments on the latest album?
Hoge: I’m really proud of how “The Last One to Go” turned out. The bridge of “You Are The Place” is one of my favorite parts. Josh Grange’s steel playing on “Whose God Is This?” is another highlight.
Hoge visited the Windjammer amid a U.S. tour that concludes later this month before heading to Europe for a 14-show tour in 2024.
Soul Shine: It looks like you’re hitting Europe next year. Have you toured there before?
Hoge: I’m so excited to get back. I’ve done small tours in the UK and Spain, but, this summer, we went into festival season and played in Sweden, Germany and the UK and had an incredible response. I’ll be opening for Dave Hause, we’re playing acoustic in all these old churches and some of the most beautiful rooms in the world and I truly cannot wait.
Soul Shine: What did fans experience at the Windjammer?
Hoge: If you’ve been coming to our shows at the Windjammer for the past two decades, we bring you right back to that first time. If you have never seen us before, we didn’t let you down. Corps Project
Continued from page 1
of Sullivan’s Island, adjacent to Breach Inlet.
Kyzar said when construct starts, there will be some heavy equipment on the Sullivan’s Island beach, “but a smaller footprint than a traditional beach renourishment.” He explained that the work would be a 24/7 operation and would last for a month or two sometime between January and June of 2024. He said the Corps hopes to award the contract for the work in late December.
“It’s not our goal to build a dry sand beach that goes all the way above the high tide line,” Kyzar noted. “We’re basically stockpiling material within the beach template for future use to let nature takes its course.”
He said going forward, the Corps would like to transport sand dredged from the Intracoastal directly to the Sullivan’s and IOP beaches, rather than storing it first.
In other action Oct. 17, the Sullivan’s Island Council unanimously approved a motion to increase the time for the public to speak at Coun-
cil meetings from 90 seconds to two minutes, based on a recommendation from the Administration Committee. The Council also unanimously passed a declaration in support of the state of Israel, which recently was brutally attacked by terrorists based in the Gaza Strip.
“These senseless acts have led to countless instances of trauma, grievous injury and death among innocent people in Israel and in the territory the terrorists pretend to represent. We unequivocally condemn these acts of violence, which seek to undermine peace, stability and the fundamental values that uphold civilization and democratic principles,” the declaration stated. “We stand in solidarity with those kidnapped and injured, hoping for their swift return and full recovery. We support Israel and other democratic nations in their efforts to combat terrorism, extremism and intolerance wherever they may arise.”
The Sullivan’s Island Town Council also voted to change the date of its next meeting to Monday, Nov. 13. The meeting normally would have been held on Nov. 21, during the week of Thanksgiving.
Reddy or not
Why I voted the way I did
By Rom Reddy
This week, I took advantage of extended early voting and voted in the Isle of Palms election. I voted yes on the referendum to limit investment short-term rentals to 1,600 licenses, or 35% of households, and I voted for the four BEST IOP Council members – Bryan Duffy, Elizabeth Campsen, Scott Pierce and Tim Ahmuty. Ironically, the first letter of their names form the acronym BEST. This is not an endorsement of these candidates by this paper or a recommendation on how you should vote but an explanation of why I voted the way I did.
First, on the referendum. I recognize there are many arguments for and against. My vote was based on the fact that as a resident, I agree with most residents that we want to welcome our visitors, but we do not want to lose the residential feel of this island. With 35% investment rentals, unlimited long-term rentals and rentals up to 72 days allowed by law for residents, we could be pushing 50% rentals. Who knows where the tipping point is, but we are close. Once we get past the tipping point, there is no going back. Airbnb has made getting to the tipping point easy, which
is why almost every community around us, including Sullivan’s, Folly, downtown Charleston and Kiawah, have short-term rental limitations.
The BEST candidates I voted for are all supportive of resident issues such as short-term rentals, limiting development in Wild Dunes, using taxpayer money like their own and recognizing that they work for us – not the other way around. On the last point, I have been especially shocked to see candidates such as Rusty Streetman and Jimmy Ward treat the residents with disdain. I watched a tape of the Feb. 6 workshop, where Rusty says to the residents: “By golly, grow up” because they disagreed with his antiresident stance. At other times, he referred to us as the “mob.”
Do you mean the people you represent?
“However, they fail to recognize that regardless of their personal beliefs, they are there to represent the will of the residents of Isle of Palms. “
Every one of the recent votes cast by Rusty and Jimmy, from short-term rentals to the Wild Dunes zoning ordinance to the Marina, have been antiresident. I recognize that Kevin Popson, Ward and Streetman have commercial interests they want to protect. However, they fail to recognize that regardless of their personal beliefs, they are there to represent the will of the residents of Isle of Palms. Sadly, they have forgotten this, and we the people must remind them of the basic tenets of democracy. That is why I voted the way I did. Regardless of what you decide, please make sure you vote and make your voice heard.
At the recent forum, he said we must give nonresidents a “better voice” on island affairs. Really Rusty? Who are these nonresidents that will influence the residents? Jimmy Ward is on tape at a Council meeting watching residents applaud a speaker who disagreed with his position and asking: “What’s wrong with these people?”
Reddy or Not represents the opinion of Lucky Dog Publishing owner Rom Reddy but not necessarily the opinion of the newspaper. In keeping with our philosophy of publishing all opinions, we welcome responses, which must be limited to 400 words and will be published on a space-available basis.
Residents must stand strong in STR battle
By Tony Santiago
As the election looms, we find ourselves in something of a David and Goliath scenario.
Goliath, repre-
As a resident of the Isle of Palms, I am making note of who is sponsoring the “Vote No” promotion. My most recent mailing was paid for by an association of Realtors with a North Charleston address. I am unable to ascertain who is behind the “Hidden Green” address’ weekly mailings. My suspicion is it is a group whose best interest is making money off of rental property. They have no regard for the residents’ quality of life. Stay informed. I will vote yes to short-term rental caps.
sented by the formidable alliance of commercial interests – Dart/Lowe/ Wild Dunes Resort, Charleston Trident Area Realtors, IOP Chamber of Commerce and the extended short-term rental industry – wields considerable influence. In contrast, we, the residents, embody David –simply seeking to maintain a delicate balance. We support a thriving STR industry but desire reasonable regulations, similar to all of our neighboring communities.
A closer look at the debate reveals that commercial interests are deploying all their resources to sow confusion. Just look in your inbox, mailbox or street. They disseminate misinformation, such as preposterous claims that our property values will suddenly drop by more than 50% – which would be laughable if it weren’t so inflammatory.
They resort to bullying and intimidation of residents who dare to raise concerns about livability, especially on social media. Now they seem to be rewriting history, asserting that all multifamily housing within Wild Dunes was “purpose-built.”
According to Law Insider, “pur-
pose-built rental housing” refers to residential structures with four or more dwelling units meant to remain as rental housing for at least 20 years from the date of a building permit. This term predominantly pertains to apartment buildings designed solely as rentals, with no provision for private ownership.
If all Wild Dunes multifamily structures were indeed constructed as purpose-built short-term rentals, logic would dictate they should all be STRs today. However, only 60% of these “purpose-built” structures are currently STRs. Furthermore, in an Oct. 24 Post & Courier article, Mayor Phillip Pounds, speaking about our island home stated, “It’s a vacation spot and has always been a rental community, to some extent.”
With some elected officials seemingly working against us, the need for change becomes glaringly evident.
While Goliath boasts might, their Achilles’ heel is their inability to cast votes. Our strength lies in channeling our frustration with divisive politics into constructive action – by showing up and voting. David can win this, but not without you.
Be sure to read the Oct. 25 Post & Courier endorsement, “Isle of Palms voters should cap short-term rentals,” and review their objective arguments for supporting it. Then, be certain to cast your vote for the “BEST”: Brian Duffy, Elizabeth Campsen, Scott Pierce and Tim Ahmuty. Lastly, vote yes on the referendum. Together we can protect this island’s future.
An update from the Bird Banding Station
By Sarah Harper
For The Island Eye News
It has been a busy fall season at the Sullivan’s Island Bird Banding Station. We have been banding a wide variety of passage migrants on their way to the tropics, including over a dozen warbler species, vireos and thrushes. We have even banded some migrants that are rare in our area, including a Philadelphia vireo – a new species for our station – and a graycheeked thrush. Meanwhile, the winter residents are steadily streaming in. We banded our first swamp sparrows, hermit thrushes and eastern phoebes of the season. We also banded our first ever darkeyed junco. We are technically within the juncos’ overwintering range; however, this junco was very fat, so she was most likely only using the island as a stopover location.
The tree swallows are gathering in large flocks in the hundreds, similar to the starling murmurations seen in Europe. You
can watch the huge flocks congregate and “tornado” down into the myrtles and cedars to feed en masse on the abundant berries. Wax myrtles and red cedars are important food sources for tree swallows and myrtle warblers. And speaking of berries, did I forget to mention catbirds, catbirds, catbirds? We have banded hundreds of gray catbirds over the last couple of weeks. They feed mainly on berries, including pokeberry and poison ivy. Many of them are using the land as a stopover location before departing farther south to the Caribbean, Central America or Colombia.
Our recapture data shows that some of them will settle down here on the island for the winter.
As October came to a close, the passage migrants slowed to a trickle and the yellow-rumped warblers streamed into the area.
For the remainder of the year into late March, the bulk of the birds we band will certainly be yellow-rumped warblers.
Dear Isle of Palms:
I’m Doug Hatler, a year-round resident of our beautiful island and candidate for Commissioner of the IOP Water & Sewer Commission Now I serve on the IOP Environmental Advisory Committee I’m running because as a lifelong environmental engineer and business executive who has tackled problems big and small related to protecting human health and the environment, I can help prepare IOP for the upcoming challenges water and sewer we will face over the next decade.
� aging workforce and infrastructure,
� ncreasing variability in population from tourism,
� further modernization of water and sewer systems,
� PFAS and emerging contaminants,
� septic system pollution,
� affordable sewer hookups,
� rising ocean levels,
� more frequent storms and flooding, and
� less funding from Federal and State agencies
For over 25 years, I have been implementing innovative water and waste solutions around the world for industrial corporations and municipal utilities. The past six years I have worked with over a hundred water and sewer authorities across the United States and in Canada. I understand the complexity and costs of operating a public utility, and witnessed firsthand the dedication and commitment of those who work to keep our water clean and safe. I want to bring that knowledge and experience to the IOP Water & Sewer Commission
On a personal level, I’m married 31 years and blessed with two happy, healthy, and accomplished sons. We have lived all over the U.S., including South Carolina in the 1990’s. Our sons were born here. No matter where we lived, we often returned for vacation in the low country. And when my youngest son decided to attend The Citadel we knew fate had brought us back to where we belonged. We were fortunate to find a beautiful home on 27th Avenue.
As our beloved Isle of Palms faces major environmental, regulatory, and public health challenges, we will need to implement new ideas and insights. This requires new people and new ways of doing business.
On November 7, please vote for me, Doug Hatler, to represent you on the IOP Water & Sewer Commission.
Sincerely,
Doug Hatler
The Isle of Palms Fire Department hosted an open house Oct. 20 in the city’s Public Safety Building. Sponsored by the Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support program, the event was an effort to “bring the community together to make sure that kids are comfortable with law enforcement,” according to Ted Kinghorn, who plays a significant role in organizing various community events through LENS. Among those enjoying the festivities were Thomas Rosling, left, and Emma Gray Rosling. Their mom is Sarah Margaret Rosling.
Photo by Ada Jenkins.
Photo by Sarah Harper.
Photo by Sarah Harper.
Philadelphia vireo.
Dark-eyed junco.
FEELING CONFUSED AND MANIPULATED LATELY?
You aren’t alone. These signs are all tied to groups and individuals with special interests. There’s only one clear way to vote on November 7th to preserve our island’s livability: LIKE
VOTE YES ON THE REFERENDUM
THERE IS NO IMPACT TO CITY REVENUE. THERE WILL BE NO NEW TAXES. THE 1600 LICENSE LIMIT IS AT ALL-TIME HIGHS. PROPERTY VALUES WILL NOT PLUMMET.
FRONT BEACH COMMERCIAL ZONE WILL BE EXCLUDED FROM CAPS. ALL CURRENT LICENSE HOLDERS, EVEN IF OVER 1600, WILL BE ABLE TO RENEW. PROTECTS ELIGIBLE HEIRS. ALL RESIDENT LICENSES ARE EXCLUDED.
PLEASE VOTE YES ON NOVEMBER 7
VOTING NO WILL NOT PRESERVE OUR NEIGHBORHOODS. YOUR VOICE & YOUR FUTURE MATTERS NOW MORE THAN EVER .
We see these ubiquitous plants every day
By Mary Pringle
For The Island Eye News
The ubiquitous sabal or cabbage palmetto is a native tree that we all know and see every day. This island was renamed the Isle of Palms after being called Long Island because it was thought that name would attract more visitors to the amusement park and hotel resort in the early 1900s, when the ferry and trolley cars brought beach-goers here. Think how many palmettos we see every day in every block of Palm Boulevard and everywhere else on the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island.
It is our official state tree, is one of 15 species of palmetto palm and thrives within 75 miles of the coast, from North Carolina all the way to South Florida. With fanlike green leaves and a thick stem, its half-inch berries turn black when ripe and are food for many kinds of wildlife, including robins, woodpeckers, crows, cedar waxwings, mockingbirds, raccoons, squirrels and deer.
The terminal bud or growing point called the “heart” is sometimes eaten by people, but removing it will kill the tree since that is where it grows. On the North Carolina coast, they are no longer plentiful, partly because people harvested so many for heart of palm salads. It tastes similar to cabbage, which is where its common name originated.
Palmettos are in the arecaceae family, they can survive saltwater inundation and are heat, drought and even fire resistant. They are cold hardy down to 15 degrees F. Some landscapers have used a similar looking palm on our islands that was developed in Florida as a cultivar. But this one is not as resistant to hard freezes and grows much taller. After severe cold spells, you can see many of them with severe damage. If you are hiring someone to plant palmettos, always make sure they are using the native cabbage or sabal palmetto, our true state tree, and not a substitute from Florida.
The Palmetto tree earned its place in the hearts of South Carolinians during the Revolutionary War when its spongy, flexible trunk was used to build Fort Moultrie – then called Fort Sullivan. Because the logs absorbed the British cannonballs, which
did not shatter on explosion, the patriots were victorious. The flag created by Col. William Moultrie and held up by Sgt. William Jasper to rally the troops showed a palmetto on a dark blue field, the color of his troops’ uniforms.
Many people think the other symbol on our state flag is a crescent moon, but that’s not the case. Some say that the crescent represents a gorget, which was a crescent-shaped piece of armor worn around a soldier’s neck for protection in battle. But by the mid to late 1700s, warfare had changed and this armor was no longer used. However, it was still considered a sign of rank and was used in a smaller, more symbolic or ornamental form. The patriots at Fort Sullivan had this silver crescent on their caps, so it probably represented a gorget but not a crescent moon.
If you have lived here any length of time, you probably know that this first decisive patriot victory on June 28, 1776, at Fort Sullivan encouraged the American Colonies to go ahead and sign the Declaration of Independence six days later.
Photo by Mary Pringle.
by
The Isle of Palms Halloween Carnival and Golf Cart Parade was held Oct. 27 at the Rec Center. In addition to the parade, activities included a haunted house, inflatables, food vendors and treats for the kids.
Spreading holiday cheer: The IOPCC Wreath & Poinsettia Sale
From the Isle of Palms Exchange Club
As the holiday season approaches, the Isle of Palms Community Corporation is excited to announce its annual Wreath & Poinsettia Sale, brought to you by the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. This cherished tradition not only ushers in the festive spirit but also serves as a crucial fundraiser to support various community programs.
Order by Nov. 10
The 2023 Wreath & Poinsettia Sale is in full swing, and you won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to decorate your home while contributing to a worthy cause. Orders must be placed at go.rallyup.com/iopccwreath2023/Campaign/Details by Nov. 10.
Mark your calendars: Nov. 28 is delivery day
The wreaths and poinsettias are scheduled to arrive on Nov. 28. You can pick up your purchase at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, located at 201 Palm Blvd.
Volunteers are needed for sorting and delivery
In the spirit of community and to ensure a smooth delivery process, volunteers are sought to help sort and deliver these beautiful holiday decorations. Estimated arrival time for volunteers is 10 a.m., and your assistance would be greatly appreciated. If you’re available to help, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Encourage others to participate
Feel free to extend the festive invitation to your friends and neighbors. The more the merrier. Let’s come together to make this holiday
season extra special.
Convenient ordering options
Ordering is a breeze. You can send in your orders by email and make payment either by mailing a check or paying at the pickup location. Additionally, there’s an online ordering option at go.rallyup.com/iopccwreath2023 – additional fees may apply. Email Kathy Shook at shookup@ hotmail.com or call her at 704-577-6087. Mail checks to IOPCC, P.O. Box 131, Isle of Palms, South Carolina 29451.
A cause worth supporting
Proceeds from the 2023 Wreath & Poinsettia Sale go toward the Isle of Palms Exchange Club’s programs of service, including Americanism, Youth, Community Service and the Prevention of Child Abuse. By participating in this sale, you’re not just decorating your home; you’re contributing to the betterment of your community.
The Isle of Palms Community Corporation
The Isle of Palms Community Corporation serves as the nonprofit arm of the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, a national service club comprising dedicated men and women who work tirelessly on community projects that support their four programs of service.
This holiday season, let’s come together as a community to spread joy, decorate our homes with beautiful wreaths and poinsettias and support the admirable efforts of the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. Your participation in the 2023 Wreath & Poinsettia Sale will make a significant difference in the lives of many. Thank you for your support, and let’s make this holiday season the best one yet.
Photos
Ada Jenkins.
Election 2023
I am Jeff Forslund, and I am announcing my candidacy to seek another term on the Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission. Two years ago, a position was open on the Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission when a commissioner was elected to the City Council and had to vacate the board of IOP WSC. Two of the longtime commissioners approached me and asked if I would consider applying for the open slot. These are two men who knew me personally and professionally for over 25 years. They knew my background in waste management and wastewater treatment plant services. Of course, I said yes and interviewed with the commission and with the City Council and was selected, receiving unanimous approval of the City Council.
My wife, Linda, and I moved to the island almost 38 years ago, and we have seen many
changes. In the ’80s and before, the water quality was so low, one could not brew a decent pot of coffee or boil pasta with the water, much less take a satisfying shower. We now have great clean water, the same good water as Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island and West Ashley. That progress improved our quality of life a lot.
On the wastewater side, we are nearing completion of the 41st Street wastewater treatment plant. We currently haul 25,000 to 30,000 gallons of processed sludge to Mount Pleasant for final treatment, and this state-of-the-art facility and its technology will cut the amount of waste leaving IOP by over 90%. Its modular design can be expanded to eventually handle all the sanitary waste generated on the island as people voluntarily elect to connect to the sewer system.
I worked at a company for over 30 years that had a long history of providing waste hauling
On deck at the Rec: Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck
By Katherine Berry For The Island Eye News
Starting Wednesday’s from 7:30 a.m. to noon, the Isle of Palms Recreation Center will feature Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee truck. Don’t be deceived by Tom’s coffee title; his tagline is “beverage entertainment vehicle.” The truck will have something for everyone, including nitro beverages, specialty coffees and drinks to please your morning palate and set you right for the day’s adventures.
The truck rolls in for the first time Nov. 15, and Assistant Recreation Director Tammy Cox is also working on a few others to feature as part of a new event titled “Welcome Wednesdays,” a great space to meet and greet neighbors and friends or an excuse to grab something special before conquering your day.
In addition
Nov. 17
and plant maintenance to most of the treatment plants in the tri-county area. We cleaned digesters, clarifiers, lift stations, grease traps and septic tanks. One of our early contracts was with the IOP Water and Sewer Commission at least 25 years ago. We handled all the liquid and solid waste generated by both IOP treatment plants.
I feel that my long-term residence on the IOP, along with my 30 years of experience in providing services needed to operate and maintain our plants, gives me insight into what we need now and in the future.
Most important to me was the confidence in my experience to be recruited by current commission members to join their successful team, and the unanimous approval by City Council was a humbling and rewarding experience. Now I ask for your confidence and your vote for me to remain a member of our great IOP Water and Sewer Commission.
to filling your cup in the a.m., it’s a great opportunity to check out all the new programs and activities brewing at the Rec.
Parent coach Christine Donavan debuts her new book
By Ada Jenkins
For The Island Eye News
Parent coach Christine Donavan has worn many hats, from being a parent, a sister and a wife to pursuing a variety of careers that have shaped her lifelong journey. Now she’s proudly adding “author” to her extensive life experiences. “Let, Lift & Listen” offers seasoned parenting guidance enriched by decades of wisdom and real-life testimonials.
As a Parent Coaching Institute certified parent coach, Donavan has positively impacted more than 500 parents, honing a framework that has brought significant success to hundreds of families.
Originally from Wisconsin, Donavan has called Isle of Palms home for the past 34 years. In addition to raising children, she has been deeply involved in the area’s local schools. When she’s not working and contributing to the community, you can find her kiteboarding with her family off Breach Inlet. Her career as a parent coach took root on Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, fueled by her deep affection and appreciation for the local area.
Reflecting on the origin of her parent coaching career, she recalled being coached herself.
“My coach asked me, ‘What is the one thing you loved about every one of your jobs, starting from high school?’ And as I reviewed them all, it always came back to family. No matter the role, my focus was on the families involved,” Donavan explained.
Notably, Donavan served as a youth pastor, balancing her own parenthood with guiding the church’s youth. Many teenagers saw her as a pa rental figure, and she became a trusted confidant for them.
“I had numerous teenagers who felt comfort able discussing how they wished their parents would listen to them,” Donavan expressed, noting that parents also approached her with similar concerns. “There was a significant disconnect, and I wanted to bridge the gap and bring them closer.”
After her time in the church, she pur sued a career in real estate and joined a thriving practice. Even then, her focus remained on families.
“As I got to know these parents and children and their situations, I didn’t even mind if they didn’t buy a house. If I thought it would create more stress in their family life, I would actually dissuade them,” Donavan re counted, pointing out that her commitment to putting clients first played an important role in making her a top producer.
thrived ever since.
She added, “When you’re that transparent with someone, they may not buy a house, but they’ll tell 10 people, ‘You have to speak with Christine because she’s straightforward. She cares more about you than making a profit.’”
As her life’s purpose of assisting families crystalized, she returned to school to become certified by the Parent Coaching Institute. She also obtained certification as a love and logic instructor and a collaborative divorce parenting expert. With additional education and years of hands-on experience reinforcing her credentials, her career as a parent coach was firmly established and has
Now, Donavan intends to share her well-established techniques with parents worldwide through “Let, Lift, & Listen.” The title symbolizes her parenting framework, elaborated on her website – christinecoach.com – as:
• “Let”- Allowing consequences to be the teacher;
• “Lift”- Supporting your children with genuine appreciation;
• “Listen”- Attending to them with open ears, hearts
After a comprehensive exploration of these three principles, the book features 40 short stories illustrating the real-life application of the framework in various family situations – with names changed for confidentiality, of course.
“There will be laughter, tears and everything in between,” Donavan noted. “It’s an emotional journey, but parenting is emotional.”
Starting on Oct. 20, the book was available for purchase on platforms including Barnes & Noble, Google Play and Amazon.
“It’s an exciting time,” Donavan exclaimed with enthusiasm. “The book practically wrote itself, and I’m eager to finally share it with the world.”
Checks were presented to 11 area charities at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club Oct. 26 – money raised at the 31st annual IOP Connector Run Oct. 7. Beneficiaries included Windwood Farm, HALOS, Carolina Youth Development Center, Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center, Darkness to Light, Doors to Freedom, Child Abuse Prevention Association, Lowcountry Orphan Relief, Florence Crittenton, My Sister’s House and the IOP Exchange Club Child Abuse Prevention Committee.
Around the Islands
ONGOING
WHAT: Sea Island Builders Food Drive
WHERE: 2113 Middle St., Suite 100, Sullivan’s Island WHEN: Through Nov. 17
MORE INFO: To learn more: 843-883-7430.
WHAT: Sea Island Builders Toy Drive
WHERE: 2113 Middle St., Suite 100, Sullivan’s Island WHEN: Through Dec. 15
MORE INFO: To learn more: 843-883-7430.
WHAT: Wild Roll Wednesday
WHERE: IOP Recreation Center - High Tide Room WHEN: 8:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. • Wednesdays
MORE INFO: Back by popular demand, Wild Roll Wednesday with the Isle of Palms Recreation, Police and Fire departments. Continues through spring 2024. Each week will feature a different trainer/coach from a different department, and participants will have the opportunity to work out with multiple department team members. To learn more and register, visit IOP.net.
WHAT: Community meditation WHERE: IOP Rec Center
WHEN: Thursdays at 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: Outdoors, under the oaks – weather permitting; indoors on colder or bad weather days. Free. To learn more: iop.net/recreation.
WHAT: Home Economics for Kids WHERE: IOP Rec Center
WHEN: Mondays, 3 p.m.-4 p.m.
MORE INFO: A six-week program, open to kids in grades K through 5, will set up participants for success on how to host a gathering, interact and mingle with others, set a table and comparatively shop prices to get the best deals. To learn more: IOP.net.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4 and TUESDAYS NOVEMBER 7 and 14
WHAT: Family Storytime
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 10:30 a.m.
MORE INFO: Join us for stories, songs and rhymes that support early literacy. To learn more, visit ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 7 and 14
WHAT: Memoir Writing Circle
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 1 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join us to get your stories started. Write from a provided prompt for 20 minutes, then share for friendly feedback. To learn more, visit ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8
WHAT: POE-etry critique group WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 1 p.m. (after hours)
WEDNESDAYS, NOVEMBER 15 and 29
WHAT: NaNoWriMo Write-ins
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island
WHEN: 1 p.m.-3 p.m. (after hours)
MORE INFO: Are you up to the challenge of writing a novel in a month? National Novel Writing Month starts on Nov. 1, and Poe will host “writeins” after hours to build the writing community while limiting distractions. Light refreshments will be provided. Visit nanowrimo.org for more details, call 843-883-3914 or email poe@ccpl.org.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16
WHAT: I ShouldaWouldaCoulda: Ten Ways We Forsake Ourselves in the Fourth Age of Life
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 11 a.m.
MORE INFO: In this upbeat, empowering talk, we consider a new way of thinking about our aging futures. In the happy middle of our third age lives (generally free from obligations of work and active parenting) we can do ourselves and our loved ones a favor by getting proactive about our possible fourth age selves. Using stories and perspectives gathered from her interview-based research, as well as her own family’s fourth age experiences, Kathryn McGrew describes the fourth age of life and why most of us fail to acknowledge it, communicate about it and prepare for it. Registration requested. Call 843-883-3914 or email poe@ccpl.org.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17
WHAT: After School Art Club for Teens and Tweens
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
MORE INFO: Come hang out after school to experiment with different arts and crafts. Grades 6-12. No reservation needed. To learn more, visit ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18
WHAT: Beach Lovers Book Club
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 10 a.m.
MORE INFO: Come for a lively discussion of “The Mystery of Mrs. Christie” by Marie Benedict. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21
WHAT: International Games Day
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Celebrate International Games Month with this game day at the library. We will have classic board games, video games and scavenger hunts all day. To learn more, visit ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
MORE INFO: Gather with fellow poets to share and improve your work. Bring six copies of one or two poems to share with fellow poets (limit two to three pages). To learn more, visit ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9 and 16
WHAT: American Mah Jongg
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: Noon-2 p.m. (all levels) and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. (experienced players)
MORE INFO: Learn to play the fun and fast-paced game of American Mah Jongg. If you have a 2023 card, please bring it. To learn more, visit ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.
Another successful nesting season ends on IOP
By Mary Pringle For The Island Eye News
Another successful nesting season has ended on the Isle of Palms with the emergence of hatchlings from Nest 47 on Oct. 9. This number is slightly above our average, which is in the low 40s, but did not break any records. The hatch success average was much better this season at 84.2%.
One reason for the large number of 4,173 hatchlings that reached the ocean from the IOP beach this year is that for some reason the coyotes did not dig up any nests and eat the eggs on the first night they were laid before the Turtle Team could put our protective screens on them. This happened six times, all in Wild Dunes, last season. Perhaps the animal that was doing that
Final 2023 Results for the Isle of Palms
is no longer living in Wild Dunes. We were fearful that this behavior was being taught to other coyotes living at the north end after losing about 10% of our eggs to them in 2022.
Another reason it was an excellent year for hatchling survival is that the majority of our nests were not flooded over or washed away by the tide. Since they were mostly laid below the spring tide line, where king tides and storms destroy them, we were allowed to relocate them to safe dunes. Our biggest threat was tropical storm Idalia, which came during the king tide cycle and caused major losses on some nesting beaches on our coast. The seaturtle.org website shows 1,043 nests lost, the majority from flooding. Two of our late nests were washed over but still hatched successfully. Unfortunately, most of the 3,671 nests that were lost on Cape and Lighthouse islands in the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge were due to Idalia’s storm surge. Statewide, 6,629 sea turtle nests were reported, almost all from loggerhead turtles. Of this number, 19 were green sea turtles and two were from the small Kemp’s ridley species. There were also an amazing 10,309 false non-nesting crawls. Most beaches have more false crawls than nests. The South Carolina coast had 616,993 eggs laid, with a 58% hatch success rate.
Many thanks to all of the 133 Isle of Palms Turtle Team members, who can now catch up on their sleep.
People enjoy watching tiny hatchlings begin their long journey from the nest to the ocean.
Photo by Barbara Bergwerf.
