Sullivan’s Island Weighs Surveillance to Stop Secret Tree Removal in Maritime Forest
By Joshua Uys
Sullivan’s Island acquired the maritime forest property in 1991, with the title including restrictions obligating the town to protect it.
In accordance with those restrictions, the town enacted an ordinance prohibiting construction, topographical disturbance, and the removal of trees, shrubs and vegetation, making violations a criminal misdemeanor.
Town Attorney Dodds reported to council at the April meeting that violators have grown increasingly calculated in recent years, targeting holidays and low-staffing periods to evade detection. Offenders have stripped trees on Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas Eve and Easter, and have turned to electric cutting tools to work in silence.
“They are engaging in these illegal activities on the weekends, during holidays, in the dark of night,” Dodds said. “They’re using electric cutting tools to avoid noise that might prompt
someone living nearby to call authorities. They’ve even used poison to kill trees, shrubs and vegetation.”
The town is now considering placing surveillance cameras throughout the maritime forest to deter would-be violators.
“These cameras aren’t aimed at adjoining residences; they have one goal: to catch people violating our ordinance,” Dodds said. “I think that’s consistent with the town’s duty to protect the maritime forest, and I’m a big proponent of it.”
Councilwoman Schroeder struck a more cautious note.
“I’d like for us to solicit suggestions from the community so that we don’t need cameras spying on people’s activities in the middle of the night,” she said. “I can completely understand why we have them, because we’ve seen criminal activity, but I really believe that if we come together, we can find a better way.”
Sullivan’s Island to Draw More Than 10,000 Visitors on Carolina Day Weekend
By Joshua Uys
Sullivan’s Island is bracing for a landmark weekend this June as the National Park Service prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, one of the American Revolution’s most decisive early victories.
Carolina Day, the annual commemoration of the June 28, 1776, battle, will be celebrated across
two full days this year: Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28, with events running from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day at Fort Moultrie.
“Two hundred and fifty years ago, this place was the center of history, and just two weeks later, the Declaration of Independence was signed,” said Brad Shattuck, superintendent of the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. “It is significant worldwide.”
Shattuck said the National Park Service is anticipating more than 10,000 visitors across the weekend, with a packed program to match the occasion. Historians will fire more than 10 cannons and 100 muskets throughout both days, park rangers will lead history talks and Q&A
sessions, and a Marine Band concert is scheduled. Sunday will open with a special military flyover.
With that level of turnout expected, the National Park Service is also promoting a “teaching, not beaching” campaign, warning visitors looking for a typical summer beach day that the island’s capacity will be largely taken up by those attending the commemoration.
To ease parking challenges, two shuttles will run between Poe Avenue and dedicated lots in Mount Pleasant. A red route will serve Lucy Beckham High School, while a blue route will serve Mount Pleasant Town Hall. An additional 600 spaces at Battery Jasper will be available exclusively to event attendees, supplementing the island’s existing parking areas.
The Battle of Sullivan’s Island was a pivotal early victory in the Revolutionary War, in which colonial forces repelled a British naval assault and helped inspire the movement toward independence. This year’s celebration takes on added national significance as part of America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
PUBLISHERS OF:
The Island Eye News
The Island Connection SiP Magazine
In Memory of Swan Richards
EDITOR
ieneditor@luckydognews.com
ADVERTISING advertising@mylonews.com
ASSISTANT PUBLISHER
Christian Senger
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Stacey Nichols
CONSULTANT
Lynn Pierotti
CONTRIBUTORS
Geoff Bennett • Katherine Berry
Amber Doskos • Pamela Marsh
Mary Pringle • Aaron Sweet
Joshua Uys • Chris Zoeller
Campbell Sullivan
PUBLISHED BY
Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837
Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS
Submit your letters to the editor to: ieneditor@luckydognews.com
DEADLINE
June 17 for our June 26 issue
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Op-eds and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lucky Dog Publishing or its staff.
A Weekend 250 Years in the Making
By SC250 Charleston & Friends of Charleston National Parks
Sullivan’s Island will take center stage in the nation’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary as Fort Moultrie commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island on June 28.
On June 28, 1776, a hastily constructed fort made of palmetto logs and sand withstood the bombardment of the British Royal Navy, securing one of the first major American victories of the Revolutionary War. Two hundred and fifty years later, visitors will have the opportunity to experience that story where it happened through a weekend of living history, demonstrations, family activities and commemorative events.
“Most communities don’t have the opportunity to celebrate an event that helped change the course of American history right in their own backyard. The 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island is more than a commemoration. It is a chance for people of all ages
to experience history where it happened and create memories they’ll carry with them long after the weekend ends,” said Cheri Yates, executive director of Friends of Charleston National Parks.
Saturday, June 27: Living History Day Saturday’s activities will transform Fort Moultrie into an immersive Revolutionary War encampment. Living historians portraying Patriot and British soldiers and civilians will demonstrate what life was like in 1776.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy:
• Musket and artillery firing demonstrations
• Historical presentations by park rangers and historians
• Colonial crafts and hands-on activities for kids
• Revolutionary-era games and demonstrations
• History Row featuring interactive exhibits for all ages
• Catawba Nation presentations and exhibits
• Colonial cooking, brickmaking, indigo dyeing, knot tying, colonial dancing, cricket lessons and more
• Food trucks on site
The event is designed to be family-friendly and offers opportunities for children and adults alike to engage directly with Revolutionary War history.
Sunday, June 28: Commemoration of the Battle Sunday marks the actual 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. The day begins with a formal commemorative ceremony honoring those whose actions helped shape the course of American independence.
Highlights of the ceremony include:
• Military flyover
• Remarks from distinguished
(Continued
Photo Credits: Friends of Charleston National Parks
Weekend 250
Continued from page 3
guests and dignitaries, including local officials and representatives from the British Consulate
• Musical interludes by the Yorktown Fifes and Drums
• Wreath presentations honoring those who served
• Ceremonial sea and land firing featuring the Spirit of South Carolina and participating reenactors
Following the commemoration, visitors can continue to enjoy the Living History Day activities and demonstrations featured on Saturday.
Sunday concludes with a special performance by the renowned United States Marine Corps Parris Island Band at Fort Moultrie.
Parking and Shuttle Service
Because large crowds are expected throughout the weekend, visitors are encouraged to use designated parking areas and shuttle service to Fort Moultrie.
Free shuttle buses will provide transportation between satellite parking locations — Lucy Beckham High School (1560 Mathis Ferry Road) and Mount Pleasant Town Hall (100 Ann Edwards Lane) — and the fort, helping reduce congestion on Sullivan’s Island and making it easier for guests to enjoy the festivities.
Visitors are strongly encouraged to use the free, continuous shuttle service on Saturday and Sunday, as parking on the island will be extremely limited. There will be no direct beach access at Fort Moultrie throughout the weekend.
For a full schedule of events and updates, visit the National Park Service Carolina Day webpage at go.nps.gov/FOMO250 or Friends of Charleston National Parks at www.friendscnp.org.
The 250th anniversary Battle of Sullivan’s Island events at Fort Moultrie are free and open to the public.
Isle of Palms Beach Run Returns July 25
By Aaron Sweet
The 2026 Isle of Palms Beach Run will take place Saturday, July 25, on Front Beach behind the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms. Competitors can enter the following divisions: a 5K Run/Walk or a 10K Run. The race begins at 8 a.m., and Youth Fun Runs start at 8:30 a.m.
Registration is $30 to $40 for the 5K Run/Walk or 10K Run and $10 for the Youth Fun Runs. Race-day registration will open at 7 a.m. Cash and checks only.
Registered participants will receive a free T-shirt.
Sponsors for the race include the Windjammer, Acme, Barrier Island Eco Tours, The Foot Store, Play It Again Sports, Harris Teeter, TCBY, BodyArmor Sports Drink and Queen City Timing.
To register, visit RaceRoster.com or stop by the Isle of Palms Recreation Department at 24 28th Ave. For more information, call 843-886-8294.
Photo Credits: Friends of Charleston National Parks
City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department Adds Movie Nights to 2026 June
and July Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam
By Tammy Cox
The City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department will add free Movie Nights to the June and July Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam events this year. The Rec Team will set up a 90-foot LED screen on the soccer field. Both movies will begin at 7 p.m.
The June featured film will be The Miracle. Matilda will hit the big screen in July.
FVR, Family Vacation Rentals of Isle of Palms, is sponsoring both movie nights.
The Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam series, held from June through October, takes place on the third Thursday of each month. The event features local farmers, artisans, crafters, specialty vendors, food trucks, live music, family-friendly activities and more.
When: Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam Schedule
• June 18 — Movie Night: The Miracle
• July 16 — Movie Night: Matilda
• Aug. 20
• Sept. 17
• Oct. 15
Where: Isle of Palms Recreation Center
Time: Farmers Market & Food Truck Jam, 4-7 p.m.; Movie Night, 7 p.m.
Visit IOP.net, Facebook and Instagram for the latest events and updates.
When Loggerheads Go Off Course: Unusual Nesting Stories From the Islands
By Mary Pringle
Recently, someone asked about the most unusual nesting sites the Turtle Team has seen on the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island. This brought back memories of “sports-minded” loggerheads who seemed to be thinking of golf, volleyball and hiking in the forest. Since these turtles nest in the dark of night, perhaps they can’t see their surroundings. Could that be why strange places are chosen?
Loggerheads mate early in the spring to fertilize about four to six nests that will be laid that season at two-week intervals.
In June 2014, a nest was laid in the middle of a beach volleyball court near the Windjammer. If those eggs had been left where they were laid, people would have been stomping on the sand above them. Our nesting guidelines from the SCDNR Marine Turtle Program do not mention whether eggs should be left in an active volleyball court, but this seemed like a no-brainer at the time. They were relocated to a dune at 29th Avenue, where they hatched successfully.
Two years later, in May 2016, a nesting loggerhead crawled onto the 18th fairway of the Links Course in Wild Dunes. She was trying to find a sandy, elevated spot, and she did. After trying to dig in the tough Bermuda grass of the fairway, she discovered the sand trap, which seemed familiar. That is where she dropped 142 eggs into a 2-foot hole that she dug with her rear flippers.
More recently, in June 2023, erosion had taken its toll on the area of Sullivan’s Island between Stations 17 and 18, where the protected maritime forest lies. This is a wonderful area for migratory birds to nest and feed, but as far as we knew, sea turtles did not nest there. By 2023, erosion of the dunes had killed many trees, including wax myrtles, from saltwater inundation.
On June 12, Diane Brumley and Jenn Gragg discovered tracks that showed what a struggle a loggerhead mother had endured to climb a small cliff and make it to higher ground. This higher ground contained black dirt and had also flooded.
The Turtle Team saw where she damaged or dug up forest plants, including dog fennel, thorny dewberry vines and poison ivy. We were able to find where the eggs were laid, but a couple of our team members paid the price afterward with poison ivy, which was painful and itchy.
When removing the eggs, we discovered standing water at the bottom of the egg chamber, which likely would have damaged them. At that time, there were still some suitable dunes nearby close to the Sand Dunes Club that were used for a successful relocation.
In 2026, there are many areas of Sullivan’s Island where nesting is not possible because of severe erosion. This means that finding spots for nests will be a daunting task for sea turtles as well as the Turtle Team.
On the Isle of Palms, a major renourishment project is scheduled to begin in late June in Wild Dunes and continue into the fall when it moves south of the pier at 14th Avenue. That means areas at the north end and the south end of the island cannot be used for loggerhead nests.
We are hoping that by next season the beach will be restored for beachgoing people and for sea turtles.
Bells Across South Carolina June 28
And July 4 2026 At Noon
The SC250 Commission invites communities across South Carolina to commemorate our state’s pivotal role in securing America’s independence by ringing household, community, and church bells on Carolina Day and Independence Day of 2026
Join us in creating a chorus of commemoration across the state that honors our revolutionary heritage and enduring spirit of independence
WARRIOR SURF FOUNDATION CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC
Warrior Surf Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing free surf therapy, wellness coaching, yoga, and community to veterans on Folly Beach. All proceeds from the tournament fund our free program for veterans.
THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2026
RIVERTOWNE COUNTRY CLUB
REGISTER NOW: $750 COST PER FOURSOME SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!
www.warriorsurf.org/events/golf-classic
JIMMY DYE
Founding Partner, Island Resident, REALTOR®
1,000 Flags, One Community
Community Invited to Help Create Carolina Day 250 Commemorative Flag Garden at Fort Moultrie
Jimmy Dye is the co-founder of The Cassina Group with over 20 years of experience, specializing in luxury, waterfront, estates, and historic propertie s across the coast of South Carolina. RealTrends rank s him among the top 1.5% of agents in the U.S. and #8 in South Carolina. A member of REALM, Jimmy Dye offers unmatched expertise and a global network connecting premier Lowcountry properties with qualified buyers worldwide.
For more information on these exceptional homes, contact Jimmy Dye at 843.452.6482 or visit JimmyDye.com
By Friends of Charleston National Parks
Friends of Charleston National Parks and the National Park Service are inviting community members to participate in the creation of a Commemorative Flag Garden at Fort Moultrie as part of the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island.
The installation event will take place Wednesday, June 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fort Moultrie.
Participants will gather at Fort Moultrie to help place American and British flags in advance of the anniversary, creating a powerful visual tribute to the events of June 28, 1776. The temporary installation will commemorate the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, a pivotal Revolutionary War victory that helped inspire the cause of American independence and established Carolina Day as one of South Carolina’s most significant historical observances.
“This Flag Garden is more than a display. It is an opportunity for people to personally participate in the 250th anniversary of Carolina Day,” said Cheri Yates, executive director of Friends of Charleston National Parks. “By placing a flag, participants will help create a powerful visual tribute that honors the events of June 28, 1776, and reminds us that history is best remembered when communities come together to tell its stories.”
The Flag Garden will serve as a focal point for visitors during the anniversary weekend, providing an opportunity to reflect on the individuals whose actions shaped the course of American history.
Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate. Registration is recommended but not required. Visit www.friendscnp.org for more information.
Photo Credit: Friends of Charleston National Parks
Letter to the Editor from Superintendent of Charleston’s National Parks
By Brad Shattuck
Dear
Neighbor,
My name is Brad Shattuck, and I serve as superintendent of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. I’m writing to let you know about a significant weekend of programming on Sullivan’s Island as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island — a defining moment in our nation’s founding and a story very much rooted in your community.
On Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28, the National Park Service, in partnership with SC250 and with the support of Friends of Charleston National Parks and other community partners, will host commemorative events in and around Fort Moultrie. We are especially grateful to Mayor Pat O’Neil, the Sullivan’s Island Town Council and Town Administrator Joe Henderson for their leadership and partnership in helping us shape this weekend while respecting our neighbors.
You can expect heavier-than-usual foot and vehicle traffic on the island throughout both days, including during setup and breakdown.
A few neighborly heads-ups as you plan your weekend:
Sound: Because this is a battle commemoration, you will hear cannon fire and musket demonstrations at scheduled times, along with amplified music and program announcements.
We wanted to give you advance notice so you can plan for pets and family members who may be sensitive to those sounds.
Traffic and parking: The island will be busy, and parking will be tight. We are encouraging visitors and would gently encourage residents and their guests to take advantage of sidewalks and travel alternatives other than driving. It is by far the easiest way to move around the island that weekend, and it helps keep the roads clearer.
To keep traffic and parking manageable on the island, we will be running complimentary shuttle buses throughout the event from two park-andride locations: the Red Line from Lucy Beckham High School and the Blue Line from Mount Pleasant Town Hall. We would be grateful if residents would encourage visiting friends and family to leave their cars behind and ride the shuttle. It will be the easiest and fastest way to reach the commemoration.
Please note that Poe Avenue in front of Battery Jasper will be closed to through traffic for shuttle operations during the commemoration, and the park’s beach access and parking in this area will be unavailable for the duration of the event. Other beach accesses on the island will not be affected.
Safety coordination: We are working closely with Sullivan’s Island Police, Mount Pleasant Police and Charleston Police throughout both days to keep traffic moving and the island safe.
In the spirit of this 250th anniversary, we are embracing a “Teaching Over Beaching” message for the weekend, inviting the public to spend time learning about the history that took place right here rather than treating June 27-28 as just another beach weekend.
We hope you’ll accept that same invitation. Whether you stop in for 30 minutes or stay for the full program, we would be honored to have you and your family join us on this fee-free weekend to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island, one of four signature city events across the nation.
For the most up-to-date information, please visit our webpage: https://www.nps.gov/fosu/planyourvisit/carolina-day-2026.htm
We know a weekend of this scale asks something of those who call the island home, and we’re grateful for the patience you extend as we mark this milestone together.
If you have any questions or concerns before, during or after the event, please don’t hesitate to reach out by email or phone. Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Charleston’s national parks.
brad_shattuck@nps.gov 404-983-1411 (cell)
Sincerely, Brad Shattuck Superintendent
All letters submitted to The Island Eye News must bear a full name, address and phone number for verification. Only the author’s name and city will be printed. Submissions are excepted via email to ieneditor@luckydognews.com or mail to P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, S.C. 29482. Letters may be edited for length and readability. The Island Eye News reserves the right to reject letters that are libelous, unseemly, not individually addressed to The Island Eye News or that have been previously published elsewhere.
INTERPRETED BY: Katherine Berry
OWNER NAME: Bruce Chodosh
NAME: Bo Didley ‘Bo-Bo’
AGE: 4
BREED: 32 pounds of unresolved ancestry
FAVORITE TOY: All
VET : Dr Shaun IOP
FOOD: Science Diet
Bo Didley
HEY EVERYBODY! I can’t believe I’m here. Honestly, after everything I put my Dad through in our first year, he could’ve easily — and understandably — sent me right back to the shelter.
My youth was a kind of rough that teaches a dog to sleep with one eye open and always know where the exit is. It took a lot of patience, consistency and love from my special person to convince me that this new life wasn’t a trick.
In my first year, I ran away four times, destroyed two car interiors, several screens and, ahem, maybe busted out of a crate or two as I worked through some emotional “adjustments.” But one day, something inside of me softened. I started to realize that I’m safe. Nobody is trying to hurt me, and everyone who wrapped their arms around me actually loves me and cares for me. Wow.
When Dad saved me, I didn’t know how to play. I’d never lived inside a real home before. I didn’t even know what a dog bed was. At first, I thought it was a suspiciously soft trap. I had never even seen a cat! The only thing I knew about life was survival. Meals came from trash cans. Every strange sound felt dangerous. Most days were spent trying to figure out how to make it to the next one. But now? Now my life is DOGGONE GREAT.
Every morning at exactly 7 a.m., I launch myself onto Dad like a furry motivational speaker with four paws and zero respect for personal space. My tail wags so fast NASCAR
would probably sponsor it. Dad gets his coffee, I get my bone, and then it’s time for our day.
On our walks, I now STRUT. I understand the leash is not there to hurt me. It’s there because somebody finally cares where I end up. So now, I walk proud, calm and collected, like a gentleman with a slightly chaotic past.
I love everyone I meet because that’s what my Dad taught me, and I even have a girlfriend now! (Hey Honey ☺) Cookies appear from strangers. Booty rubs are abundant. And when we go to the best place ever — the dog park — I get to chase dogs of every shape and size just for fun!
Truthfully, my favorite part is seeing how happy it makes Dad to watch me happy. He’s my hero. Not because he rescued me, but because he stayed.
Through every tantrum, every escape attempt and every panic spiral, he never gave up on me. He taught me something I never knew before: No matter what you’ve been through, it’s still possible to trust and love again.
These days, my life of sleeping with one eye open and one paw out the door has officially collapsed into the lap of luxury. Turns out, this Lucky Dog life was worth sticking around for after all.
Thank you, Dad, for seeing past the scared dog and seeing the good boy underneath. You didn’t just save my life — you taught me how to live it.
LENS Celebrates Public Safety Heroes at 2026 Awards Banquet
By LENS Foundation Isle of Palm
On May 14, the Isle of Palms community came together for an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition and gratitude.
The 2026 LENS Annual Public Safety Awards Banquet was everything organizers hoped it would be and more. The Osprey Ballroom at Wild Dunes Resort was filled with community spirit, heartfelt recognition and moments that will not soon be forgotten. The evening began with a wine-andcheese reception before transitioning into a sit-down dinner, live entertainment and dancing to close out the night.
“The event and evening were truly incredible. Doug Mills was an absolute treat. The organization and work of the volunteers were second to none. Well done to you, your team and all the sponsors — absolutely brilliant work,” said Craig Oliverius, Isle of Palms fire chief.
Honoring Our Best
Doug Mills Takes the Room
The keynote address was delivered by legendary New York Times photographer Doug Mills, a three-time Pulitzer Prize winner. Mills shared extraordinary behind-the-scenes stories from a career spent covering some of the most consequential moments in modern history, delivered with vivid detail, perspective and just enough levity to keep the room captivated and entertained.
Throughout the evening, LENS presented appreciation awards recognizing the men and women who go above and beyond for the Isle of Palms community. Award recipients included Police and Fire Department honorees, Volunteer of the Year recipients, Leadership Award recipients and Lifetime Achievement Award honorees — all nominated by members of the community they serve every day.
ATTENTION RESIDENTS
The Town of Sullivan’s Island seeks residents interested in serving on the Town’s Boards and Commissions. The following seats are due to expire:
Tree Commission:
Two (2) seats, one with term expiring September 1, 2027 (to fill unexpired term), and one with term expiring September 1, 2029.
Planning Commission:
Four (4) seats for terms expiring September 1, 2029.
Interested residents should submit application packet by 4:00PM on Friday, August 7, 2026
Please contact Pamela Otto at potto@sullivansisland.sc.gov or (843)883-5744 with applications or questions. Information and applications are also on the Town website at https://sullivansisland.sc.gov/government/boards-commissions
As one attendee put it: “The speaker was awesome. Loved the walk down America’s memory lane.”
And the Big Cheese Is ...
The crowd-favorite Big Cheese Competition brought some friendly rivalry to the evening, with 11 local fundraisers competing to raise the most “cheddar” for LENS. The winner, Lexi Kinsual, was crowned Big Cheese on stage — complete with a cheese crown, a mouse escort to the throne and enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
Special recognition also goes to the top runners-up — Laura Strecker, Dimi Matouchev and Jim Thompson — whose fundraising efforts made a tremendous difference for the island’s first responders. Congratulations to Lexi, the runners-up and all 11 contestants whose generosity made this the most spirited Big Cheese Competition yet.
The evening concluded with dancing to live music by 17 South — a perfect sendoff for a memorable night.
AROUND THE ISLANDS
MULTIPLE DAYS
WHAT: “America’s Tall Ship” Tours
WHERE: TBA
WHEN: June 12 through June 14
MORE INFO: The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter EAGLE, a 295-foot, three-masted sailing vessel used to train future officers, will stop in Charleston for tours. Public tour details will be announced closer to the ship’s arrival: uscga.edu/mission/eagle.
WHAT: Petco Love Pick Me! SC Pet Adoption Event
WHERE: Various
WHEN: June 12-21
MORE INFO: From June 12-21, you can find your new best friend during the Petco Love Pick Me! SC Pet Adoption Event, where shelters and rescues from across the state will unite to make pet adoption easier and more accessible. More than 2,500 animals across South Carolina are waiting for loving homes. For more information, visit PickMeSC.org for more info.
WHAT: Tacos for Tom
WHERE: Home Team BBQ, 2209 Middle Street
WHEN: June 2–30
MORE INFO: Join Home Team BBQ for the return of its annual Tacos for Tom fundraiser running June 2–30 at all locations, including Greenville. Guests can enjoy the limited-time Cheeseburger Taco while supporting families affected by ALS through organizations including Compassionate Care ALS, Project Main Street, and Touched by ALS. Proceeds from taco sales and campaign merchandise directly benefit ALS families and resources.
WHAT: Wonderland?!
WHERE: The Venue MTP, 627 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.,
Mt Pleasant
Our community calendar keeps you updated on local events. From festivals to workshops to family-friendly gatherings. Stay connected and never miss out on the excitement.
WHEN: June 12 - June 14 at 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Join HEART Inclusive Arts Community for their first-ever narrative dance performance. Starring the HEARTists and featuring professional dancers from around Charleston, and live music. Tickets on Eventbrite.com.
WHAT: Charleston Bridal Sample Sale
WHERE: The Waverly, 94 Stuart St, Charleston
WHEN: June 15 and June 16
MORE INFO: Five of South Carolina’s premier bridal boutiques and local designers are joining forces for an exclusive multi-boutique bridal sample sale. For the first time, Lowcountry brides will have the unique opportunity to shop inventory from multiple boutiques and direct-from-designers in a single location. The sales event features a wide selection of size-inclusive bridalwear ranging from sizes 4–24 at up to 70% off. Doors open on Monday, June 15 at 2 p.m., with shopping hours extending until 8 p.m. On Tuesday, June 16, the venue will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FRIDAY, JUNE 12
WHAT: Party at The Point with Rock the 90s
WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant
WHEN: 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Party at The Point is a family-friendly beachfront event that features live music and plenty of food and drinks. Gates open at 5 p.m., with music starting at 6 p.m. Free parking is available along the road leading into the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, as well as in the brand new parking lot across from the resort entrance. Uber and Lyft drop off area will be available to all guests to use, located 50 yards from the
entrance. Tickets are $15 and be purchased here. Kids 12 and under get in for free.
WHAT: Outlaw Country Night ft. Reverse Cowgirl
WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Outlaw Country Night featuring Reverse Cowgirl on the NÜTRL Beach Stage.
WHAT: Dancing on the Cooper WHERE: Mount Pleasant Pier WHEN: 7 p.m.
MORE INFO: Dancing on the Cooper opens at 7 p.m. and live music will play until 10 p.m. Featuring great music from a different local band each month, coupled with stunning views of Charleston and lots of fun, Dancing on the Cooper is a great way to kick off the weekend on select Fridays this spring and summer. Guests will enjoy dancing to a variety of musical genres throughout the season, including beach/shag, funk/soul, rock, salsa, jazz, and hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and today.
SATURDAY, JUNE 13
WHAT: Dîner en Blanc
WHERE: TBA WHEN: TBA
MORE INFO: Dîner en Blanc is returning to Charleston on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at a brand-new secret location. The eighth edition of the event promises guests “an evening of elegance, conversation and à la française dining with a touch of local flavor — all dressed in chic white.” To be part of the experience, visit charleston. dinerenblanc.com.
$ 2,150,000 Ginn Maiers, REALTOR® (843) 696-7402 gmaiers@dunesproperties.com Adele McNair, REALTOR® (803) 727-6164 amcnair@dunesproperties.com
A More Refined Approach to Estate Sales
As more homeowners choose to downsize, relocate or simplify, private communities across the country are embracing professionally managed online estate sales as a smarter, lower-disruption solution. For communities such as Kiawah and Seabrook—where privacy, convenience and high standards matter—this modern approach offers a practical alternative to the traditional in-person estate sale.
The shift is measurable. According to the 2024 EstateSales.net industry survey of estate sale companies nationwide, 51% of companies now use online sales platforms. The survey also found that hybrid models combining online and in-person selling reported a 50% increase in sales volume and a 15% increase in revenue per sale. These numbers reflect a clear change in how household contents are being sold today.
Why is this model gaining momentum? America’s 65+ population continues to grow, increasing demand for downsizing, relocations, estate settlements and later-life transitions. At the same time, today’s sellers increasingly expect the same convenience, efficiency and digital reach they use in nearly every other part of life.
Traditionally, estate sales often meant crowds of shoppers, long lines before opening, traffic congestion, parking challenges and multiple days of increased neighborhood activity. In private communities, those concerns can be magnified by gate access, limited parking and the desire to preserve a peaceful residential environment.
Online estate sales offer a more controlled model.
When professionally managed, the process includes pricing research, secure payment systems,
buyer communication and structured pickup logistics. Items are professionally photographed, researched and presented online to a broad audi ence of interested buyers. Purchasing or bidding is done digitally, and pickups are scheduled within organized time windows. Instead of large num bers of visitors browsing over several days, activity is concentrated into managed pickup periods.
This model has gained traction in markets where community standards and convenience are especially important. In Florida, one of the nation’s strongest markets for retirement and second-home ownership, online estate sales are increasingly used in gated communities seeking to avoid traditional sale traffic. Similar growth has been seen in Arizona’s active-adult communities, where downsizing needs are common, and in affluent Mid-Atlantic markets where access-controlled neighborhoods increasingly value scheduled, low-disruption solutions.
For residents, the benefits can be significant. Online marketing reaches far beyond local foot traffic, exposing quality furnishings, antiques, art, jewelry and decorative pieces to a larger buyer pool. Broader reach often creates stronger interest and more competitive pricing for desirable items. Just as important, the process can feel more private and manageable during what is often a major life transition.
For communities, the advantages are equally clear:
• Less traffic and fewer vehicles entering neighborhoods;
• No early lines or public crowds;
• Easier gate coordination through scheduled access;
• Reduced parking strain;
• Less disruption to neighbors;
FREE FLAGS!
also be valuable. Homes preparing to come to market often need contents removed efficiently and thoughtfully. A professionally managed online estate sale can help homeowners maximize value while preparing a property for listing, reducing the pressure to include furnishings in a home sale simply for convenience.
Most importantly, this service is not simply about selling belongings. It is about helping people navigate important chapters of life with professionalism and care.
For communities that value privacy, efficiency and community character, online estate sales are not simply a trend—they are an increasingly sensible way forward.
For more information, contact Owner Nancy Schwartz of Blue Moon Estate Sales at bluemoonestatesales.com/Charleston, by email at nancy@ bluemoonestatesales.com or call 843-801-6777.
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