SULLIVAN'S ISLAND ISLE OF PALMS GOAT ISLAND DEWEES ISLAND LOCAL
NEWS
Seamon Whiteside Tackles Sullivan’s Island Flooding
Poe’s Tavern Launches Incentive Program for Beach Cleanup
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Governor McMaster Vetos Plan That Would Have Reimbursed Coastal Property Owners Who Built Seawalls
By Christian Senger For Island Eye News
On Tuesday, July 2, Governor Henry McMaster announced line-item vetoes for the fiscal year 2024-2025 state budget that were set to go into effect the following week. Among those vetoes was a measure that would have benefited some beachfront homeowners who built sea walls or similar structures to protect their properties from erosion.
The vetoed item, Proviso 55.25, would have required regulators to let some property owners rebuild sea walls that the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) had ordered removed. Additionally, it would have required the state to reimburse some owners’ legal costs and repay them if they removed what DHEC deemed illegal sea walls.
In a press conference on Wednesday, July 3, Governor McMaster said the measure was a “piecemeal attempt to address beach erosion and management through provisos, which are only in effect for one fiscal year.” (continued on page 2)
Loggerheads Face Nesting Challenges on Eroded Beaches
Town of Sullivan’s Island Reaches $1.1 Million Settlement with Charleston Water System
By Christian Senger For Island Eye News
The Town of Sullivan’s Island has reached a $1.1 million agreement with Charleston Water System (CWS) over a contractual dispute. In addition to the payment, the two entities signed a new 40-year contract that ensures water service on the island won’t be interrupted. (continued on page 3)
Sullivan’s Island’s annual fish fry, benefitting Sullivan’s Island Fire and Rescue, was held at the Fish Fry Shack on Saturday, June 29. The fish fry began in 1948 as a fundraiser and has become a popular event for the entire community.
Photo Credit: Rob Byko
LUCKY DOG
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The Island Eye News
The Island Connection
SiP Magazine
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Assistant Publisher: Christian Senger
Graphic Designer: Ada Jenkins
Consultant: Lynn Pierotti
CONTRIBUTORS:
Christian Senger
Scott Millimet
Joshua Uys
Mallory Cleary
Sarah Reynolds
Capt. Geoff Bennett
Katherine Berry
John Nelson
Jim Thompson
Mary Pringle
Nicole Nelson
Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC
P.O. Box 837, Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS
DEADLINE:
July 17 for our July 26 issue
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*Op-eds and Letters to the Editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mylo News, Lucky Dog Publishing or its staff.*
Op-ed: Clarifying Sullivan's Island Finances and Nature Trail Updates
By Scott Millimet, Sullivans Island City Councilman For The Island Eye News
I’d like to take a moment of your time to (1) ask a favor and (2) clarify misperceptions regarding the town’s finances.
(1) At the June 18 council meeting, a resident openly accused the council of “betraying the trust” of town residents. Nothing could be further from the truth. Council members sacrifice time with family and forego other opportunities to put the town first. This is the case week in and week out as the council tends to the town’s business. The council does not ask for anything in return except for a modicum of respect and civility. We can collectively agree to disagree at times, but there is no room in today’s world to publicly and personally attack members of the council who are trying their utmost to do right by the town. We should be encouraging good people to serve, not besmirching their good names in front of family and friends.
(2) Despite claims to the contrary by some residents, the town is in a very strong financial position. The operating budget is balanced by law, with much of the increase in the FY 2025 budget due to statemandated increases in employee benefits. The town borrowed roughly $40 million from 2014 through 2020 at interest rates ranging from 1.75% to 2.5% to construct a new town hall, police and fire stations, storage barn, and fund other smaller
Seawalls (continued from page 1)
projects. Due to inflation, a dollar in 2014 now has the purchasing power of $1.33, meaning the debt issued at that time is now 33% cheaper to repay. The bonds issued to finance these projects were rated Aa2 by Moody's (high investment grade) and are repaid via tax receipts over a period of 20 to 30 years. Municipalities cannot fund large projects in a single year simply via tax proceeds; thus, issuing long-term debt is a standard practice in municipal finance. The town is also audited annually to ensure we are in good financial standing. We are. I speak on behalf of the town council by saying it is our privilege to serve all residents of Sullivan’s Island, whether we agree on specific issues or not. We appreciate the honor and are humbled by the faith entrusted to each of us as reasons for our election.
These are questions that have been presented, have been answered, and then the environment changes and it takes constant study and work,
but a one-year proviso freezing everything, I think, is not the way to progress in this very delicate and important area,” Governor McMaster said.
In total, the governor issued 21 vetoes, totaling $2.3 million. The remaining budget includes 292 proposals, an increase of more than 126 from two years ago, totaling $2.4 billion.
These proposals include an income tax cut, teacher and law enforcement pay raises, a college tuition freeze, and investments in the state's bridges and workforce development through SC Nexus and South Carolina Workforce Industry Needs Scholarships.
Sullivans Island City Councilman Scott Millimet Photo Credit: sullivansisland.sc.gov
A water supply contract between CWS and the town that went into effect in July
1994 was set to last 30 years, but a rate dispute began when it was time to renew the contract. The water utility company said the town owed over $1 million and threatened to cut off the town’s access if that bill wasn’t paid. The town ended up paying CWS $1,138,636.62.
The shutdown was avoided after the agreement was finalized on Tuesday, June 25. The agreement includes a new rate that requires the town to pay $1.40 per thousand gallons of water from July 1 through June 30, 2025. This is an increase from the $0.88 per thousand gallons of water the town previously paid CWS. The rate for the next year could change depending on any possible shortfall. The new deal also includes an increase in water for the town, providing an extra 100,000 gallons per day.
SeamonWhiteside Developing Solutions to Combat Flooding on Sullivan’s Island
By Christian Senger For The Island Eye News
SeamonWhiteside (SW+), a site design firm that works throughout the Carolinas, was selected for two vital projects on Sullivan’s Island to mitigate flooding and water issues. The initiatives, the Stormwater Master Plan and the Drainage Improvement Project, are expected to help the town prepare a comprehensive capital improvement plan and reduce flooding.
As most residents know, Sullivan’s Island is prone to flooding issues related to high tides, tropical storms, and hurricanes. These water improvement projects aim to keep the area safe for years to come.
"We are thrilled to be a part of these meaningful projects," said Russ Seamon, president of SeamonWhiteside. "Sullivan’s Island is a place our team loves deeply, so designing strategies to help the town address current and future flooding is something that we are committed to. Through our work, we aim to address public concerns while creating lasting solutions for businesses, homeowners, beachgoers, and visitors."
The firm said the Stormwater Master Plan will take “a comprehensive, holistic approach to mitigating sea level rise and rainfall flooding experienced across the island and identify solutions to support the town in bolstering long-term coastal resilience.” SW+ will identify areas currently prone to flooding and develop solutions to mitigate issues that may arise from future climate conditions. The firm said its science-based approach will “help ensure the improvements will be effective for at least the next 50 years.”
The Drainage Improvement Project is a federally funded project awarded through the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority and will address specific drainage issues on the island. Working together with Terracon for environmental permitting and geotechnical engineering and GPA Professional Land Surveyors for site measurements, the project will leverage the findings of the master plan to develop solutions for four priority watersheds currently experiencing flooding.
Key features of the project will include upgrading existing pipes and the installation of tide gates to improve capacity and prevent tidal flooding; stormwater treatment devices to improve water quality; techniques to promote natural drainage; and more. The project is expected to break ground in early 2025 and reach completion by the end of 2026.
Coffee, Breakfast, & Lunch.
Grab n’ Go items for a day on the water. Beer, Wine, & soft drinks.
Sweet treats - ice cream, slushies, frosé & more!
Grab a branded hoodie to stay warm and a stylish hat to shield your eyes from the sun. Our high-quality apparel ensures you're both comfortable and fashionable for any outdoor adventure. Check out our Cordina Sunglasses, beach gear, & so much more.
Poe’s Tavern Boosts Beach Cleanup Efforts with New Incentive Program
By Mallory Cleary For The Island Eye News
Poe’s Tavern on Sullivan’s Island has been hosting beach cleaning events for the community every summer for the last four years, and this year, they decided to expand their efforts. To get more customers and community members to participate in picking up litter, the restaurant decided to try something different this summer. Instead of scheduling a beach cleanup every few weeks, they’ve opted to give an incentive to people who bring a bucket of litter to the restaurant.
At the front entrance of Poe’s Tavern is a sign that informs customers of their new program, and below it is a stack of buckets. If you take one of their buckets, fill it with litter, and bring it back to the restaurant, you’ll receive a slip of paper that marks your participation in the cleanup. When you give a
server or bartender the slip, you can choose between a free appetizer or draft beer.
Carson Peaden, a shift manager at the restaurant, said the new program has received a positive response from the community. She said customers have been delighted to see Poe’s Tavern take action to keep Sullivan’s Island free of litter.
“It’s definitely important to keep the beach clean, and many others think so as well,” Peaden said.
The program is ongoing and will continue until the end of the summer season.
Parade of Patriots: July 4 Golf Cart Extravaganza Dazzles in Themed Glory
Started over 30 years ago as a casual tradition, the “Isle of Palms Community Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade” celebrated its fourth official year with hundreds of golf carts in attendance. Participants decorated their carts, themselves, and their bikes in patriotic themes. Uncle Sam made an appearance and kids enjoyed blasting water guns and hoses!
Photo Credit: Poe’s Tavern (Facebook)
July 4, 2024 Isle of Palms Golf Cart Parade
Photo Credit: Rob Byko
Make your Beach Visit a Breeze: Charleston County Parks Beach Park Shares Tips
By Sarah Reynolds For The Island Eye News
With summer well underway, many locals and tourists are flocking to Lowcountry’s beaches. Charleston County Parks encourages all beachgoers to familiarize themselves with important information and best practices to ensure the most enjoyable and safe time.
The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) operates Folly Beach County Park, Isle of Palms County Park, and Kiawah Beachwalker Park. From the summer months through September, the beaches are quieter on weekdays, with weekends, holidays, and Fridays seeing large crowds. CCPRC encourages beachgoers to take note of the following tips and important information:
Park Capacity
While approaching the islands, CCPRC encourages drivers to look for digital highway signs denoting beach park capacity. The capacity of the parking lot for CCPRC’s beach parks will be updated in real time by staff, so guests will know before they reach the park if parking is full.
Kiawah Island
Kiawah Beachwalker Park has 150 parking spots and usually fills to capacity by 10:30 a.m. during the summer. The Town of Kiawah enforces a traffic ordinance that prohibits vehicles from idling or parking outside the entrance to Kiawah Beachwalker Park. If the park is full upon arrival, staff can add guests to a virtual line. Timely updates and text notifications alert customers as they move to the front of the queue. Parking for buses, RVs, and/or campers is never guaranteed, even on weekdays.
Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms County Park has 445 parking spots and usually fills to capacity by 10:30 a.m. on weekends and holidays, with spots becoming available again more consistently in the late afternoon. When the parking lot is full, police will allow up to about 20 vehicles to wait in line for spaces to open. Once the turn lane outside the park is full, police direct vehicles to keep moving to other parking areas not operated by CCPRC. Be aware of the City of Isle of Palms parking ordinances. And note that there are only two lanes of traffic leaving the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island. On a crowded day, if weather or another event creates a reason for everyone to try leaving the islands at once, traffic will back up, and it could take up to two hours for the park to empty.
Folly Beach
Folly Beach County Park has 225 parking spots and usually fills to capacity by 10:30 a.m. on weekends and holidays, with spots becoming available again more consistently in the late afternoon. When the parking lot is full, look for City of Folly Beach parking lots on West Ashley Ave. to prevent blocking roads and driveways. Review the City of Folly Beach parking ordinances in order to avoid being towed or ticketed.
Pets on the Beach
Pets must always remain leashed within the parks, and each municipality has its own ordinances pertaining to dogs on the beach.
Alcohol and Smoking
Possession or consumption of alcohol is not allowed at any of the beach parks.
Smoking, vaping, and tobacco use are prohibited at CCPRC facilities, programs, and events.
Additional beach park rules and information can be read on the parks’ webpages: ccprc.com/3222/Beach-Parks.
Safety tips
Swim near a lifeguard when possible, and obey their commands.
Watch children at all times.
Learn to identify a rip current and how to break free from one by swimming parallel to the shore.
Seek shelter when lightning is in the area.
For more information on Charleston County Parks beach parks and safety, call 843-795-4386 or visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Photo Credit:Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission
2024 Sales Tax Free Weekend Begins August 2nd
By Christian Senger For The Island Eye News
This year's South Carolina Sales Tax Free Weekend will run from Friday, August 2, through Sunday, August 4, offering shoppers a three-day period to purchase a variety of items without paying sales tax. This annual event, which began in
2000, is now celebrating its 25th anniversary. During the annual Sales Tax Holiday, a variety of purchases are exempt from the state's 6% sales tax and any applicable local taxes. Tax-free items range from clothing, accessories, and shoes to school supplies, backpacks, and computers. As long as an item is eligible, it is tax-free, whether purchased in-store or online.
For more information and a list of exempt items, visit dor.sc.gov/taxfreeweekend.
charl eston Redfish, Trout, and Seasonal Surprises
fishing
By Capt. Geoff Bennett
For The Island Eye News
What a great time to be fishing here in Charleston! The usual suspects, redfish and trout, are now complemented by a host of seasonal species, including Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, and sharks. Combined with warmer temperatures, the fishing conditions are now superb.
Redfish have been making quick work of any well-placed
As for trout, it is more of the same. Popping corks remain the way to go. Mud minnows and live shrimp are both performing well. Creek shrimp are starting to be large enough to net and use. If little fish keep picking at your live shrimp, switch over to a D.O.A. 3-inch artificial shrimp. Their Glow/Gold Rush Belly color has been quite productive.
bait. Make sure to carry your cast net and try catching some finger mullet or menhaden. We’ve been having the most success around docks, rock walls, and other structures while fishing live bait. Make sure to use a weight heavy enough to hold the bait stationary; otherwise, your rig will slide along the bottom until it snags.
Anglers targeting flounder have been reporting good numbers being caught. Work mud minnows or finger mullet along the bottom around structures. Move the bait gently along, and when you think you have a bite, pause a few seconds before setting the hook. We’ve been picking up quite a few flounder with mud minnows under a popping cork as well.
My favorite summertime fish is the ladyfish. With the warmer water temperatures, ladyfish will fill our waters. These exciting fish will readily eat bait under a popping cork and make your drag zing. Their acrobatic jumps and hard runs make these fish very entertaining. You’ll often find them in some of the same spots where you find trout.
See you on the water!
Since 2009, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing, providing light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of artificial and live bait fishing options. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.
Ben Nuckols and his son, Park hold a redfish
Photo Credit: Capt. Geoff Bennett
This is What "Neighborhood Support" Looks Like
By Jim Thompson For The Island Eye News
The ‘NS’ in LENS stands for Neighborhood Support, which was vividly demonstrated on June 26 at a stunning beachfront property on the Isle of Palms. The evening event featured a wine tasting hosted by Stems & Skins from North Charleston, aimed at raising awareness and funds for the essential, behind-thescenes needs of our Isle of Palms Firefighters.
Fire Marshal Sean Harshaw shed light on the hidden stress factors our firefighters, particularly the younger ones, face— stresses not commonly known to the public. One significant burden is the emotional strain from encountering trauma in their numerous emergency responses. To address this, LENS Foundation Isle of Palms has supported a mental wellness program through MUSC for all employees.
Financial stress is another critical issue. Frankly, firefighters are underpaid and struggle to afford living in the communities they serve. The rising costs of housing, vehicles, fuel, food, and insurance force them to take on additional jobs, sometimes two or three, to maintain their roles here. LENS funds are available to assist with these hardship cases as they arise.
The event illustrated the deep understanding and commitment of our LENS supporters. With over thirty attendees, the evening raised approximately $10,000, with additional
matching gifts expected to double that total.
This is what true neighborhood support looks like. The needs of our firefighters will persist, as will LENS's efforts to raise funds to support them. You can contribute by becoming a "Firefighter Founder" for LENS with a $500 donation.
These dedicated firefighters are here for us—let's ensure we are there for them. For more information about becoming a Firefighter Founder, visit lensiop.org/firefighter-founders.
Wine Tasting Event
Photo Credit: Dave Janssen
Ten Years In, The Obstinate Daughter Continues to Impress the Charleston Community
By Nicole Nelson For The Island Eye News
Given the popularity of the beautiful beaches in the Charleston area, it is no surprise that there are a number of very good restaurants in these rustic and wind-blown beach towns. One of the best restaurants on Sullivan’s Island is The Obstinate Daughter (TOD), which bills itself as a “Lowcountry Food Fort” and is a refuge from the hustle and bustle of daytime beachgoers.
Only a few hundred yards from the beach, TOD specializes in New American food with Southern and Mediterranean influences. From Jacques Larson, the James Beard-nominated chef and restaurateur behind the very popular Wild Olive on John’s Island, one of the best Italian restaurants in the area, TOD applies these successful concepts to a lighter and more accessible menu that features small plates, pastas, and pizzas.
like Swordfish Siciliana and Griddled Octopus. During a recent visit, my party thoroughly enjoyed inventive vegetable dishes such as local lettuce salad, farro piccolo (Brussels sprouts, peanut, balsamic, and black truffle), and vegetable tonnato (summer local vegetables, arugula, black olive, and potato).
Our party loved the pastas, especially the campanelle with
& Savor
FOODIE FINDS
From the moment you start up the wraparound staircase and enter the nautical-inspired dining room, it is clear that this is not the typical beachside restaurant. Boasting ingredients from quality suppliers such as Anson Mills, Bradford Family Farm, Crosby’s Seafood, High Wire Distillery, Edmund’s Oast, and Charlestowne Fermentory, the ever-changing menu features classics such as Peel & Eat Shrimp and Oysters and unique dishes
market fish and ricotta gnocchi. The hanger steak and pesce a la plancha were also excellent from the wellpriced menu. The pizzas were delicious, with traditional options like Miss Carolina, Moultrie, and Rutledge, and adventurous choices like Weird Fishes and Porky Peach, all made with fresh dough and quality ingredients. Desserts, particularly the burnt sugar cake and affogato, were highlights.
The bar offerings are diverse, featuring classics like Bloody Mary and unique drinks like the William Moultrie and King's Honey. Boozy cream soda, local beers, and a large Italian wine list are also available.
Dining at the bar is a great experience, with impressive bartenders providing professional service. TOD, celebrating its 10th anniversary, remains a favorite spot near the ocean, perfect for a casual meal or a special dinner. It shines all day.
Daytime Surprise: Loggerhead Turtle's Rare Sunrise Nesting on Isle of Palms
By Mary Pringle
Project Leader, Island Turtle Team for SCDNR
For The Island Eye News
Loggerhead sea turtles nest at night. Under the cover of darkness, they are safer from predators such as coyotes, which will eat their eggs. The whole process of crawling up onto the beach to find a safe spot, digging a hole with her rear flippers that is deep enough to hold well over 100 large eggs, covering it up, and then returning to the water can take several hours.
This season, the Island Turtle Team has seen more than a half dozen loggerheads still on the beach, finishing up this process when the sun is rising, and our beach patrol volunteers are looking for the large tracks that are left behind on the beach.
Very rarely do these 300-pound reptiles nest when the sun is up the way the smaller Kemp's Ridley sea turtles do. But in the Ocean Point neighborhood of Wild Dunes, that is exactly what happened with Nest 37 on June 22 this season. Penny Gorby and Eileen Montanero were on patrol and spotted one on their walk around 7 a.m. With onlookers nearby, she proceeded to drop 135 eggs in a deep hole she dug.
At that time of the morning on the Isle of Palms, dogs are offleash, and the beach can be very busy. When a sea turtle is found nesting, it is important to stay away from her and not let her see you. If an authorized person is present, it may be possible to quietly approach her from behind and watch the
eggs drop. At night, no flashlights should be shining on her, and no cell phone lights or flash photography are allowed.
But in this case, the sun was shining brightly, and it was a challenge to keep unleashed dogs away. People are normally respectful but curious because this is something that not many ever see. After a turtle finishes laying her eggs and covering them with her rear flippers, she normally
(continued on page 12)
Loggerhead Sea Turtle on Isle of Palms
Photo Credit: Mary Pringle
Loggerheads
(continued from page 11)
respectful but curious because this is something that not many ever see. After a turtle finishes laying her eggs and covering them with her rear flippers, she normally sits still for a while in the depression called a body pit that she has dug to lower her profile and not be so noticeable on the beach. She will also throw sand around and disguise the 6-to-10-foot-wide circular area where the eggs are hidden, about 10 to 12 inches below the surface.
Finally, when she is ready, she will begin to crawl back to the water. People should be careful to give her a clear path and a clear view of the ocean, only standing a good distance off to the side and landward of where she is and keeping dogs away. On land, these 300-pound reptiles with flippers are very slow and cumbersome, taking a few steps, resting, lifting the head to take a breath, and then continuing toward the waves.
When the turtle has decided to make her way to the ocean, the Turtle Team is allowed under our nesting permit to measure her shell, look for metal tags on her flippers, and scan her for an embedded chip called a PIT tag. This is information that scientists value, especially if she has been tagged as part of a research project or has been in a rehabilitation facility such as the South Carolina Aquarium. All nesting reports are submitted online daily and are standardized in a multistate database.
As of July 3, the Isle of Palms has 45 nests, and Sullivan’s Island has three nests. It is a very busy season that might bring more nests than ever recorded.
22nd Annual Folly Beach Wahine Classic Returns to Folly Beach This Month
By Christian Senger For The Island Eye News
The highly anticipated 22nd Annual Folly Beach Wahine Classic (FBWC) will return to Folly Beach on July 27 and 28, 2024.
The all-girl, non-profit surf contest is the only one of its kind in South Carolina, and is the longest-running female surf contest on the east coast, bringing surfers from across the nation to the Edge of America. The event will be held at the popular local surf spot known as the Washout.
The mission of the FBWC is "to share the strength of surfer women (wahines) of all ages and abilities through a fun weekend of surf competition, girl power, and camaraderie, riding the waves of womanhood toward a life of purpose."
You can learn more about the Folly Beach Wahine Classic, become a sponsor, and support their mission at FollyWahine.com.
LENS Introduces Firefighter Founders to Support Isle of Palms Fire Department
By Ted Kinghorn For The Island Eye News
The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms proudly recognizes a host of local individuals, couples, and businesses whose generous contributions have launched the Firefighter Founders program. This new initiative is tailored to meet the Isle of Palms Fire Department's (IOPFD) specific needs, directly supporting the priorities outlined by the Fire Chief.
Chief Oliverius is a steadfast advocate for his team, emphasizing the importance of not just managing salaries, benefits, and training, but also enhancing recruitment and retention efforts. He recently highlighted the significant role of the Firefighter Founders program:
"The Isle of Palms Fire Department is privileged to serve a vibrant and supportive community. Recently, we awarded two hardship awards and two scholarships, which is truly amazing! The LENS IOP, through the Firefighter Founders program, has been pivotal in enhancing the lives of our firefighters. This program is proactive, adaptable, and effective, addressing crucial needs and providing essential support where it's most needed. It includes mental health initiatives through MUSC, scholarship opportunities, and hardship support.
“The LENS support is an incredible blessing for us, with the resilient responder program and scholarships showing a commitment to our families that is unparalleled in any other community. The collaboration between our department and the LENS Foundation has been profoundly impactful, directly affecting our firefighters' mental health, retention, recruitment, and service delivery.
“We are truly humbled and blown away by the community's generosity. The donors are incredibly gracious, helping us during our times of stress and need. Words cannot express the extreme gratitude we feel on behalf of our firefighters and their loved ones. LENS is making a significant difference in the lives of our personnel and their families, and we are blessed to have such support."
LENS IOP and the IOPFD extend a heartfelt thank you to the inaugural Firefighter Founders:
Jarrett and Brett Kraeling
Patricia Buddemeyer
Maryanne and Alec Chalmers
Ginn and Brad Maiers
Diane Tausig
Kathy Shook
Myron and Melly Tucker
Stems and Skins
Bernie and Shawn Drackwicz
MacIntyre Brothers
Tony and Whitney Jones
Betsy Reidenbach
Carolina One Real Estate IOP
Dave and Barb Janssen
Jenn Grabenstetter
Pete and Michele Page
Phillip and Laurie Pounds
Jim and Linda Thompson
Jean Blackwell and Kim Williams
Ted and Anne Kinghorn
Joanna and Stewart Brown
Stuart Bascomb
Mike and Clair Powers
Dudley and Glenda Spangler
Brooke and Dimi Matouchev
Gary and Kim Chesson
Paige and Rob Hauff
Dave and Trudi Rohr
Kathryn Magruder
Karen and Charles McCoy
Beth and Murray Small
Sandy and Peggy Stone
Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce
SkyRun Charleston Property Management
For more information about becoming a Firefighter Founder, visit lensiop.org/firefighter-founders.
AROUND THE ISLANDS
ONGOING EVENTS
CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET
Every Saturday through December
The Charleston Farmers Market champions Lowcountry farmers, artisans, and community groups, offering local produce, plants, herbs, flowers, vendors, entertainment, and arts and crafts.
Marion Square, Downtown Charleston
REYNIER LLANES: “PASSAGES”
May 24 through September 15
“Passages” showcases the vibrant narrative paintings of established Cuban-American artist Reynier Llanes, blending scenes from nature and daily life with a mystical elegance.
Gibbes Museum of Art
JULY EVENTS
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Leaf Art for Kids
Create beautiful designs on oak leaves, then arrange them into a oneof-a-kind piece of art.
Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan's Island | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. (drop in)
18
Isle of Palms Farmers Market
For a genuinely local experience nearby, don't miss the Isle of Palms Farmers Market! This year's dates are June 20, July 18, August 15, September 19, and October 17. The market operates from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
24 28th Avenue, Isle of Palms | 8 p.m.
EXHIBIT: MERTON D. SIMPSON & WILLIAM M. HALSEY
April 6 through August 18
Gibbes Museum of Art's artist spotlight series features South Carolina-born Abstract Expressionists Merton D. Simpson and William M. Halsey, known for their successful careers.
Gibbes Museum of Art
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
Every Wednesday through July
Beat the heat this summer with our Christmas in July edition of Tea with Santa, featuring pineapple decorating, holiday-themed treats, and festive fun.
Hotel Bennett, Downtown Charleston
14
Shag By the Sea
Featuring DJ John Smith. Tickets are $50, and proceeds benefit the IOP Exchange Club Youth and Scholarships Program. Join us at the IOP Exchange Club for an afternoon of music and fun. Get your tickets at ticketstripe.com/shagbythesea.com.
20
Drink Pink: Rosé Festival
Charleston will host Drink Pink, an allday summer Rosé celebration featuring live music, various drinks, Instagramworthy photo ops, and local restaurants serving signature rosé cocktails amidst pink and white décor.
Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park, Downtown Charleston | 1 p.m.
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Art Camp: Meditative Mood Boards
Join us at The Junction for a discussion on this month’s book club pick, "Ink, Blood, Sister, Scribe" by Emma Törzs, who will be joining us virtually! Attendees must purchase a dinner ticket to participate.
Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan's Island | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
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Tie Dye Tag
Prepare to get Tagged! Tie Dye Tagged! Wear a white T-shirt and join us in the most colorful game of squirt gun tag ever! Beat the heat and go home with your very own work of wearable art.
Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan's Island | 10:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. for kids with their adults; 11 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. for teens and adults
JULY EVENTS
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26 Water Safety Program
Learn about the importance of water safety and how to keep you and your family safer in and around water with layers of protection.
Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan's Island | 10:30 a.m.
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IOP Beach Run
Join us for the 2024 IOP Beach Run! The event features a 5K/10K Run and 5K Walk at 8:00 a.m., followed by Youth Fun Runs at 8:30 a.m. Register online at Race Roster or in person. Online registration closes at noon on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.
IOP Recreation Center, 24 28th Avenue, Isle of Palms | 8 a.m.11 a.m.
