THE SLAND EYE
Your Guide to Fourth of July Celebrations in Charleston
Loggerheads Face Nesting Challenges on Eroded Beaches
By Jenny Peterson For Island Eye News
Before even moving to the Palmetto state, Hank and Laurel Greer began donating to Sea Island Habitat for Humanity, an organization they discovered while vacationing in the Lowcountry
It was a testament to the couple’s commitment to giving back to the community and was just the beginning of their long legacy of spearheading transformative (continued on page 7)
By Joshua Uys For Island Eye News
The Town of Sullivan’s Island is building a nature trail through the Maritime Forest from Station 16 to Station 18, linking the properties between Fort Moultrie National Park and the Sullivan's Island Lighthouse
While some residents welcome the decision, others expressed concerns about the project during the Town Council meeting on Tuesday, June 18th
“You are willing to compromise the safety, security, privacy, and quality of life or Sullivan's Island (continued on page 3)
The Battery by Scott Chinn
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Sullivan’s Island to Increase Water and Sewer Rates for Fiscal Year 2025
By Joshusa Uys For The Island Eye News
On Tuesday, June 18, the Sullivan's Island Town Council unanimously passed an increase in water and sewer rates for the fiscal year 2025.
According to the Water and Sewer Committee, the average resident of Sullivan's Island, who uses about 6,000 gallons per month, should expect to see a 4% increase That translates to an approximate increase of $5 83 per month
Rates comprise a flat base rate and a volumetric rate charged per 1,000 gallons There will be no change to fees, including those for construction or new accounts. More details on the new rates can be found in the included table
Message From The Sullivan's Island Mayor
By Mayor Patrick O'Neil For The Island Eye News
Dear Island Neighbors, Get ready for our traditional events marking Independence Day, which is on Thursday this year and will likely give lots of lucky folks a 4-day
weekend! In other words, expect tons of traffic for four straight days.
Councilmember Ned Higgins, Chair of the Council’s Recreation Committee, tells us what’s in store at the start of the big day:
“Our Independence Day celebration kicks off in the morning with the Golf Cart and Bike Parade. It’s always fun to see the imaginative decorations that folks create to adorn their golf carts and bikes There will be prizes for the best decorations, but to be considered, you must register at Town Hall before the 4th or on site no later than 8:30 a m But you don’t have to register to simply join the fun in the parade just show up. The line-up starts at Sunrise Presbyterian Church at 8:30 a m The parade begins at 9 a m , right after the National Anthem, and ends at SI National Anthem, and ends at SI Elementary School, where the best carts and bikes will get ribbons ”
Later in the day, we’ll have the Party inthe Park Middle Street along Stith Park will be closed off to vehicular traffic and parking at 4:30 p.m.; the music will start around 6:00 p m , and Fireworks will begin around 9:00 p m (Sorry, no pets are allowed in the park.)
More information on all this is on the Town’s home page: sullivansisland sc gov Scroll down to “Upcoming Events ”
Please remember: If you like fireworks, enjoy the Town-sponsored show Otherwise, fireworks are always illegal on the island.
Please welcome our new town administrator
At our June Council meeting, we had the opportunity to salute our long-time (21 years!) Town Administrator, Andy Benke, as he transitions to retirement Thank you, Andy, for your tremendous contributions and leadership throughout your time at the helm
I also had the privilege of swearing in our new town. Administrator, Joe Henderson, who has already m served the Town for 11 years as Director of Planning and Zoning and later as Deputy Administrator Joe will be issuing a more comprehensive statement as he begins his tenure, but I invited him to share a few words with us here: “It is with great enthusiasm that I assume the role as your next Town (continued on page 3)
(continued from page 2)
m Administrator! I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with this crucial role, and I look forward to continuing to serve the island’s residents.
“Since my hire in 2013, I’ve grown to understand the many issues, challenges, and needs of the Town’s residents and believe we have a dedicated and talented group of Town employees, volunteer board members, and council members to work with in addressing these challenges and needs
“I appreciate the opportunity and trust that Council has bestowed in me. I look forward to ensuring our team continues their tradition of professionalism, responsiveness, and courtesy toward all community members “
Dominion v. Palmettos Update
As you are no doubt well aware, a few months ago, Dominion Energy, as part of their quinquennial (my new word!) vegetation “trimming” to maintain powerline clearance, indicated that they would be removing about 523 palmetto trees that they deemed threatening to our power lines These trees were marked with spray-painted white dots
That went over about as well as you would have predicted, given that Sullivan’s Island is where the palmetto earned its place on our state flag and in our hearts (If that doesn’t make sense to you, please Google “Battle of Sullivan’s Island ")
Fortunately, we have had some very powerful support in trying to mitigate this loss of our treasured palmettos, including especially Senator Chip Campsen, Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell and his fine SCDOT staff, and Representative Joe Bustos. This led to an on-site meeting a few weeks ago between Secretary Powell and his SCDOT team, Dominion South Carolina President Keller Kissam and his team, and our Town team (Administrator Joe Henderson, Director of Resilience and Natural Resources Rebecca Fanning, Zoning Administrator Charles Drayton, and Mayor)
As a result, a TEMPORARY stay of execution was obtained for about half of the targeted palmetos. The other unlucky trees that are considered to be high-hazard to the power lines and thus are to be removed urgently have acquired second, red, markings (So if you thought we were getting a bunch of liquor stores on the Island, sorry, but this is where all the red dots came from.) The fate of the other palmettos is uncertain as of now, but removal of the high-hazard trees will start around July 8
Some other very positive tree-related developments may result from all this in the near future, so stay tuned
Also, the Town is exploring the possibility of engaging an engineering firm to investigate how we might pursue “undergrounding” of some or all of our power lines. This is not definite as of now, as we are proceeding incrementally and carefully We can say with certainty that any projects to move our powerlines underground will be both expensive and lengthy. However, one clear takeaway for now is to consider overhead power lines when planting in your yard and to avoid any private planting in the DOT right of way
See you around the Island!
Pat O’Neil
Mayor 843 670 9266
Twitter: @oneilpm1
oneilp@sullivansisland sc gov
Trail Project
(continued from page 1)
residents, especially those in adjacent properties who trusted you to protect the Maritime Forest,” resident Barbara Spell said at the meeting. “They valued [the forest]; they bought there for their privacy ” Council member Scott Millimet responded to concerned residents saying, “The trail seems to be amply far away from any houses abutting the forest. My whole thought behind the extension of the nature trail is that the more people that have exposure to m the Maritime Forest, the more people that’ll support the continued preservation of the Maritime Forest.”
The project, partially funded through a 2023 South Carolina Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (SCPRT) grant, will extend the existing phase I loop on the seaward side of the Station 16 beach access path The trail will consist primarily of compacted sand, with a few wood-framed boardwalks to bridge mud-prone areas and a 470-foot-long Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)compliant ramp and mat from Station 18 to Station 18 1/2 to allow for wheels over the sand
The project’s contractor was instructed to preserve all trees within this corridor and adjust the trail’s path if necessary. Since plants struggle to grow in the loose, arid sand of the high dunes system, tree and brush clearing was minimal, with only three saplings needing to be removed along the three-quarter-mile corridor.
Residents can learn more about the project online: sullivansisland sc gov/government/current-town-projects
Map of prospective Sullivan’s Island nature trail
Mayor
Town of Sullivan’s Island Proclaimed June 13, 2024 as “Leo Fetter Day”
By Christian Senger For The Island Eye News
The Town of Sullivan’s Island proclaimed June 13, 2024, as “Leo Fetter Day” in honor of native resident Leo Fetter The town chose that date as it was Fetter’s 70th birthday. Fetter served in the U.S. Army Reserves and later as a member of the Sullivan’s Island Tree Commission, the Municipal Election Commission, and the Disabilities Board of Charleston County
In 2018, Fetter was recognized by a South Carolina Senate resolution introduced by Sen. Chip Campsen. He was recognized for his accomplishments in powerlifting, including setting the state record in his division of the United States Powerlifting Association
Mount Pleasant Veteran Brooke Jackson Kahn Named Evan Williams Bourbon 2024 American-Made Hero
By Emily Shiffer For The Island Eye News
U.S. Army Captain and veteran Brooke Jackson Kahn has been named an Evan Williams Bourbon American-Made Hero for 2024 Jackson Kahn, a Mount Pleasant resident and founder of She’s The Veteran, served as a combat medic in Operation Iraqi Freedom She was nominated and won the award given to six veterans nationwide each year who have dedicated their lives to serving their country and community Jackson Kahn founded She’s The Veteran in 2020 to help female veterans’ mental health and create a community among nearly 45,000 female veterans in South Carolina.
“I was surprised by the lack of resources for women veterans,” said Jackson Kahn “She’s The Veteran is a built-in friend network, providing camaraderie and connection for women veterans ”
She’s The Veteran offers free surf therapy, art therapy, sailing, yoga, fishing, and more events
After applying and receiving a grant from Evan Williams’ American-Made Heroes Foundation, Jackson Kahn learned she had also been chosen for the American-Made Hero honor, which includes her face and the She’s The Veteran logo with their mission statement on limited-edition bottles of Evan Williams Bourbon
“It was all a surprise to me, ” Jackson Kahn said “It will help us spread the word about our organization.”
Jackson Kahn is one of six veterans
selected among this year ’ s AmericanMade Heroes, including Jamie Paxton of Ottawa Lake, Michigan, Master Sergeant, U S Air Force (retired); Michael Caimona of Bowie, Maryland, Lieutenant, U S Navy; Jas Boothe of Winchester, Virginia, Major, U.S. Army; Steven Jones of Russell, Massachusetts, Sergeant E-5, U S Marines; and Thomas McNamara of Spanaway, Washington, Chief Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force (retired).
After being sent samples from Evan Williams, Jackson Kahn got to choose which bourbon to brandish her likeness with: a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
“For me, it was about the smoothness and flavor profile,” said Jackson Kahn. “I like a smoother finish and low burn It has flavors of vanilla and caramel ”
What is her preferred cocktail to make with it?
“I like a Manhattan,” she said Looking to purchase a bottle? They are currently in stock at Bottles Beverage SuperStore in Mount Pleasant
Brook Jackson Kahn
Photo Credit: Evan Williams Bourbon
(L to R) SC Senator Chip Campsen, Leo Fetter, Mayor Pat O'Neil, and council members Justin Novack and Carl Hubbard at Dunleavy’s on Sullivan's Island. (photo credit will go here)
Greers
projects and initiatives that make South Carolina a better place to live, work and play.
When they moved to Seabrook Island in 1999 to enjoy retirement, they focused their philanthropic efforts on expanding access to health care and supporting animal welfare, eventually creating the nonprofit Henry H and Laurel K Greer Foundation in 2003, which significantly supports a range of philanthropic cause
“The causes we support are things t strike us as deeply important and hit ou heart strings,” Laurel said.
Through their family foundation, the Greers have help build better hospital helipads; provided free cancer screenin and awareness for low-income populations; supported cutting-edge medical research and education; purchased K-9 police dogs for local law enforcement; and expanded critical pet spay/neuter accessibility to South Carolinians in rural and other underserved communities.
their hearts, as Hank’s mother passed away from colon cancer
Also with Roper St. Francis, The Greer Transitions Clinic opened in a new location on Rivers Avenue in 2017 The clinic continues to expand and make a dramatic impact meeting the medical needs and addressing the social determinants of health and wellness for approximately 2,000 patients a year through numerous servicess.
Medical University of South Carolina
"We came from very meager beginnings," Hank said. “We both workedvery hard and have been very successful, and what we enjoy doing most is giving back
“It's nice to be able to give our resources while we ' re alive and we can see what it's doing We can't take it with us We are blessed to be able to do the things that we do.”
In 2016, they established the Hank and Laurel Greer Colorectal Cancer Program with Roper St. Francis. It’s a cause close to
The couple has a long-standing history of supporting the Seabrook community, recently purchasing two and a half lots to donate to the Seabrook Island Green Space Conservancy, supporting Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach and several philanthropic opportunities at the
For their longstanding commitment to service in the state, on June 18, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster presented the couple with the Order of the Palmetto award, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor The Order of the Palmetto “recognizes individuals who have selflessly given of their time, resources and goodwill through a variety of different causes and pursuits to the benefit of their neighbors, fellow citizens and the fabric and prosperity of South Carolina ”
"Laurel and I are humbled by the recognition, and we encourage every South Carolinian to do what they can to help their neighbors,” Hank Greer said “Receiving this honor is a moment we will always cherish.”
(L to R) Peggy and Gov Henry McMaster, Laurel Greer and Hank Greer. Provided
Restaurant Review: Makan
By Nicole Nelson For The Island Eye News
Charleston has certainly established itself as a regionally and nationally known food destination with numerous excellent restaurants, many of them centered around the abundant seafood, local produce, and heirloom ingredients of the American Southeast. With this national attention and reputation comes an opportunity to expand outside of the more traditional restaurants and into more diverse offerings, and Makan, which just opened in downtown Charleston, looks tointroduce wellexecuted Malaysian cuisine to the Lowcountry Makan, which opened last week on the corner of Rutledge Avenue and Cannon Street, brings new and unique flavors from its well-established Washington, D.C., location. Chef/owner James Wozniuk has received accolades from the Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand award each year since 2021), James Beard, and Zagat. He has years of experience with the flavors of Southeast Asia, traveling and living extensively in the region before opening several successful restaurants in Washington, D C Makan was his first solo restaurant, and this Charleston location is his first venture outside of the nation’s capital.
$3,950,000
We visited during the soft opening last week and were greeted by the gracious and professional staff, who guided us through the backstory of the chef and restaurant and the amalgamation of Malaysian flavors with locally sourced ingredients The interior space features extensive use of glass that allows for a view out onto the increasingly bustling corner of this part of the Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. The interior combines the charm of the historic building with colorful scenes from Malaysia and Southeast Asia, a striking contrast that imbues the restaurant with a lively and airy feeling.
We were seated at the bar and spoke extensively with the staff about many of the items on the menu They were able to effortlessly accommodate our dietary restrictions, as we tried most of the items on the menu. The highlights included the Char Kway Teow (Penang street noodles), a delicious and vibrant example of the classic stir-fried rice noodle dishes of the region; Bok Choy (with tofu, yellow bean gravy, and Fresno chili), a spicy and tasty vegan dish; and Curry Mee (noodle soup with coconut broth, tofu, and chicken sausage), an excellent variation of the noodle soups we were used to
We thoroughly enjoyed the Sambal Udang Petai (shrimp and stink beans in chili sauce), which was packed with unique and unexpected flavors that paired perfectly; the Ikam Asam Pedas (spicy fish curry), a unique set of flavors that spice lovers will enjoy; and the Spicebird, the signature 15-spice roast chicken main dish from Chef Wozniuk that took chicken to heights and flavors that were entirely new to us
A variety of small plates and sweets round out the menu, many featuring the classic flavors of the region, such as coconut, peanuts, mango, scallions, ginger, and tamarind Most of these seemed familiar to our palates but were taken to new levels by the deft touch of Chef Wozniuk.
Overall, Makan (meaning “to eat” in Malay) is a very welcome addition to this lively neighborhood on the Upper Peninsula, providing truly unique and vibrant flavors with a terrific staff in a welcoming space.
Spicebird Dish
Photo Credit: Makan
Charleston Filmmaker Mark Stewart Iverson Premieres First Feature-Length Film, For Prophet
By Emily Shiffer For The Island Eye News
Charleston filmmaker Mark Stewart Iverson’s first featurelength movie, "For Prophet," premiered in Charleston and nationwide on Friday, June 21
The faith-based movie, shot in Elgin, Illinois, centers on the theme of spiritual warfare and is dubbed a modern-day "It's a Wonderful Life " It follows a middle-aged husband and struggling entrepreneur, Damon, whose life is seemingly falling apart and his journey of coming to faith while battling an angel (the Archangel Raphael) and a demon on each shoulder.
Notable actors in the film include Eddie Jemison ("Ocean’s 11" franchise), T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh ("That’s So Raven," "In Living Color"), and the late Bert Belasco (BET’s "Let’s Stay Together")
A mix of drama and comedy, it is a film long in the works for Iverson, who previously attended UCLA and graduated with a degree in film, TV, and digital media.
“I set out to make a feature film about a decade ago, but had many starts and stops along the way, ” Iverson said His career has led him to create more than 50 short films and find success in sketch comedy, as well as Hulu's former No. 1 web comedy series "Dorm Life "
“About five years ago, the concept of 'For Prophet' came into my heart, and I really felt called to make it,” Iverson said. After he began writing it, “everything started to click” - from funding to casting and production
“I realized there was a lot of potential for drama and faith, but comedy as well,” said Iverson. “Faith-based movies can be cheesy and heavy-handed kind of like sermons on videotape I’m not trying to preach or teach God gave us laughter and the ability to see joy in the world. When it comes to storytelling and narrative, people respond to things that make them smile and giggle and realize the world does have beauty in it ”
Iverson, who grew up in the Methodist Church outside of Chicago, endured his own faith journey throughout high school and his 20s
“My rational brain was coming I,” he said “I thought I knew better than everything and anyone. I considered myself agnostic and then atheist, (continued on page 10)
For Prophet
(continued from page 9)
m which led me to go on a deep spiritual dive in , my 20s. I needed to look into it all all religions, gurus, sages, and prophets I really did my own Ph D on the subject of God and came out the other side as a brother in Christ. It took many years to understand God's purpose for me and accept the truth as the truth, and I accepted Christ truly ”
He plans to continue to make more faith-based films “I want people to find their personal relationship with God and think about theology,” said Iverson. “Spiritual warfare is going on big time these days The angel on one shoulder, and the demon on the other The main message I want to get across to people is: Keep listening to the ‘angel’ voice and what God is asking you. ”
“Viewers have been incredibly surprised how much they are laughing, smiling, and crying There are several scenes in the movie that are tearjerkers. It’s a great movie to see with family, friends, and church groups ”
Loggerheads Face Nesting Challenges on Eroded Beaches
By Mary Pringle, Project Leader, Island Turtle Team for SCDNR
For The Island Eye News
Last time, we talked about the challenges our loggerheads are facing this season when it comes to nesting on our eroded beaches Another example happened with Nest No 7 This turtle decided to lay eggs between Seagrove and Beachwood East in Wild Dunes, but she had a hard time scaling the rocks that have been exposed since the sand had washed away there Without rock climbing equipment, she managed to climb up onto the access path and lay a clutch of 111 eggs But then she had to bounce down the granite boulders to get back onto the flat sand We don’t know if she scratched up her plastron belly on the way down, but it was an amazing scene to find in the morning.
In other Turtle Team news, the first nest on Sullivan’s Island was laid on June 16 This one was near the shipping channel, where huge container vessels push waves up onto the flat part of the beach. This nest was at Station 17 at the foot of another eroded wall of a chopped-off sand dune and was moved to a dune closer to the maritime forest nearby It is possible that the many sandbars and eroded beach on Sullivan’s are also causing problems for turtles trying to come ashore to nest
As of June 19, there were 32 loggerhead nests on the Isle of Palms and still one on Sullivan’s Island
A Turtle Nest with Tracks in the Sand from the Egg-Laying Turtle
Photo Credit: Barbara Gobien
Dock Upgrades at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie Take Another Step Forward
By Christian Senger For The Island Eye News
The National Park Service (NPS) cleared a hurdle to replace and rehabilitate the docks at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie
National Historical Park, following an extensive environmental assessment (EA) This assessment examined various actions and their environmental impacts, ultimately concluding that the project will not have a significant effect on the human environment As a result, a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was signed by the Southeast Regional Director on June 12, 2024.
The decision to proceed with the dock replacements was made after a thorough analysis of resource impacts, consultations with Tribal Nations, the South Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, the National Marine Fisheries Service, and a review of stakeholder and public comments Details of these consultations, public involvement, and the final decision are documented in the FONSI
The EA presented no-action and two-action alternatives for each location For both Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie, the NPS selected the one dubbed “Alternative 1 ” At Fort Sumter, this involves constructing a new dock adjacent to the existing one, with demolition of the old dock following the completion of the new structure At Fort Moultrie, the new dock will be built within the same footprint as the existing dock, necessitating the demolition of the current dock before new construction begins.
These docks are vital for transporting visitors and staff to the park However, the existing docks have deteriorated and no longer provide adequate accessibility The updated docks are expected to accommodate various vessel types, improve the structures to last another 30 years, and enhance visitors’ experiences by ensuring safe and continuous access to both forts The preferred alternative by the NPS also considers climate change and increasing harbor traffic projections
Additionally, the NPS will rehabilitate the dock at Liberty Square, which provides public ferry access to Fort Sumter The proposed changes aim to improve safety and accessibility while enhancing the overall visitor experience
The NPS believes the new and improved docks will significantly benefit both the historical parks and their visitors, ensuring safe and enjoyable access for years to come.
To review the FONSI and get more information about the project, visit parkplanning nps gov/SumterMoultrieDocks
By Julie Nestler For The Island Eye News
Our island is rich in history and its people, a tight-knit community where neighbors look out for one another. This spirit of togetherness was beautifully showcased recently when a group of Isle of Palms residents united to honor beloved neighbor, William Burgis The initiative was led by Councilman Jimmy Ward.
Burgis, who moved to the island in 1957, has been a constant presence here, except for the 20 years he served in the Navy. Over the years, he has become known as the island's "go-to electrician," always willing to lend a hand to those in need Burgis has relied on a bike as his primary means of transportation, so Councilman Ward started a GoFundMe to help Burgis get a safer and more reliable form of transportation This campaign to get Burgis a golf cart took eight days, and nearly 40 community members generously contributed to ensure their neighbor was taken care of.
When then campaign fell a bit short of its goal, Benji Farmery, another island resident and business owner, stepped in and contributed the remaining amount needed to meet the target.
This ensured that a golf cart, supplied by my family, was secured for Burgis
The highlight of this community effort culminated on
Community Celebrates a Local Hero with a Special Gift
Friday, June 21, 2024, which also marked Burgis' 79th birthday In a joyous celebration at the Dinghy, the golf cart was presented to him (complete with red bows, a weather cover, and a fire extinguisher), symbolizing the community's appreciation and respect for a man who has dedicated so much of his life to serving others
A big “thank you ” to the community for quickly coming together to help get Burgis a reliable and safer form of transportation
This event stands as a testament to the power of community and the profound impact of collective kindness. It serves as a reminder that when neighbors come together with a shared purpose, they can create meaningful change and brighten the lives of those around them
Fort Moultrie dock (left) and the Fort Sumter dock (right). Provided by National Park Service
An ecstatic Burgis with his new golf cart (left) and Councilman Jimmy Ward posing with Burgis (right)
Photo Credit: Julie Nestler
Floppin’ Flounder 5K Run and Walk Draws Over 700 Racers to Sullivan’s Island
By Emily Shiffer
For The Island Eye News
The Floppin’ Flounder 5K Run and Walk brought over 700 runners and walkers to Sullivan’s Island on Saturday, June 8 The race, which has been taking place on Sullivan’s Island for over 25 years, is a collaboration between the Charleston Running Club (CRC) and Sullivan’s Island Fire & Rescue Department Proceeds benefit the Sullivan’s Island Fire & Rescue Department, CRC, and the Charleston Animal Society. There were 854 people registered for the race
“It was our largest Floppin’ Flounder 5K Run and Walk in many years, ” said Amy Lauren of the Charleston Running Club. “We had a great turnout.”
The race started on Middle Street and took racers on a route to Station 9, Station 20½, and Station 15 before finishing on Hennessy Street
Each participant was given a race T-shirt and a finisher medal The top three overall male and female finishers were also recognized The top male finisher was Daniel Gardner, who finished in 15:54, followed by Matthew DeMarco (16:06) and Aaron Kolk (16:11). The top female finisher was Bridget Walt, who finished in 17:55, followed by Rhian Purves (18:16) and Anne Cate Hollister (19:13)
The Peyton Moore award, in honor of Charleston Running Club’s youngest member, who passed away on June 4, 2013, was awarded to the fastest boy and girl under the age of 12 This year, Eli A and Charlotte K won the award
The Charleston Running Club’s next race, the James Island Connector Run, will take place in October.
Participants start the 30th Annual Floppin' Flounder 5K Run and Walk on June 8th on Sullivan's Island.
Photos Credit: Phillip Guyton of True Light Photography
Barbara Melvin Shines at LENS Foundation IOP Lecture Series
By Jim Thompson For The Island Eye News
The LENS Foundation IOP lecture series continues to spotlight the leaders of our Lowcountry community, and the event on June 12 was no exception. Barbara Melvin, CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority, took center stage and captivated the audience with her insightful presentation.
Melvin, named South Carolina Woman of the Year in 2023, has built an impressive legacy following in the footsteps of her predecessor, Jim Newsome Her accomplishments have not only matched but often exceeded expectations, proving her mettle as a leader. During her presentation, Melvin demonstrated why she is not just a Woman of the Year but could easily be recognized as a Person of the Year.
Her poised and youthful demeanor belies two decades of dedicated service with the South Carolina Ports Authority Throughout her career, Melvin has adeptly navigated the complexities of working with a diverse array of stakeholders,
including politicians, bureaucrats, environmentalists, engineers, unions, and truckers. Her ability to balance day-to-day operations with a strategic vision for the future of South Carolina's ports is a testament to her leadership skills.
Melvin’s presentation was rich with data and insights Key highlights included the SC Ports' strategic priorities, such as advancing operational excellence, growing the cargo base, and delivering critical infrastructure Noteworthy achievements included a substantial increase in port volumes and significant investments in capacity and infrastructure, positioning the SC Ports as a vital economic engine for the state.Her ability to integrate logic, vision, and effective collaboration was evident throughout her talk Her style, grace, and competence have propelled the SC Ports Authority to new heights, fostering growth and sustainability for South Carolina's maritime community
The next installment of the LENS Leadership Series will be on September 10, featuring Al Cannon, the former Charleston sheriff and a current member of the LENS Advisory Board. Cannon will delve into the intricacies of public safety services in our area Be sure to mark your calendars and sign up early to secure your spot for what promises to be another enlightening session
For more details and to register, visit LENSIOP.ORG.
Barbara Melvin Photos Credit: SC Ports
Charleston's Waters Heat Up: Prime Time for 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 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 Ensure you use a weight heavy enough to hold the bait stationary; otherwise, your rig will slide along the bottom until it snags
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.
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. You’ll often find them in some of the same spots where you find trout
Since 2009, Capt Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing For more information, call him at 843-324-3332, v
Bryan & Luke Stockman from Greenville, SC
Photos Credit: Capt Geoff Bennett
AROUNDTHEISLANDS
ONGOING EVENTS
CHARLESTONFARMERS 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
REYNIERLLANES: “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
02
EXHIBIT:MERTOND.SIMPSON &WILLIAMM.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
CHRISTMASINJULY
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
Tasting Class
Join us every first Tuesday of the month as our Certified Bourbon Steward, Will Baber, teaches on the finer points of Bourbon, through a variety of tastings and pours featuring some of the best Bourbons available
Bourbon & Bubbles, Downtown Charleston | 7 p m Bourbon
07
10 Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series
Swim, bike and run with us! 2024's four-race Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series at James Island County Park kicks off the second race of the series Pre-registration is required and ends on the Wednesday prior to each race
James Island County Park | 7:15 a m
Laughway to the Weekend
Come laugh it up with us half way to the weekend! This improv comedy show will feature three acts of hilarious improv and sketch comedy Every show is different and completely based on audience suggestions
Theatre 99, Downtown Charleston | 8 p m
05 Party at The Point: Motown Throwdown
Join us for our last show in Charleston's best and longest-running beach party concert series: Party at the Point featuring Motown Throwdown, a powerhouse soul band in the traditions of funk, soul, pop, rock, R&B and jazz
Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina | 5 p m
11 Sea Stroll & Learn: Sea Turtles
The City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department along with Island Turtle Team's Mary Pringle will host a Free Sea Stroll & Learn on the second Thursday of each month through November for a wellness and educational walk
25th Avenue Beach Access, Isle of Palms | 7:30 a.m.
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JULY EVENTS
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Isle of Palms Farmers Market
Held every third Thursday of the month through October, these farmers markets are about community,
Somm School: Intro to Tuscany
Certified Sommelier Sarah O’Kelley will offer wine classes at Wine & Company Wine Bar this summer – a tour of Italy There will be three classes focused on key Italian wine regions: Piedmont, Tuscany, and Sicily
Wine & Company Wine Bar, Downtown Charleston | 7:05 p m 13
