IEN Dec 13 2024 by mylonews

A Glimpse of the Past

IOP EXCHANGE CLUB HISTORIC TOUR

BY ROBBIE BERG

Members of the IOP Exchange Club recently enjoyed a historical tour of the National Register of Historic Places' Cooper River Historic District, led by Leigh Jones Handal, a licensed and certified Charleston tour guide and member of the Palmetto Guild. Handal, also the author of Charleston Then and Now, Storied Scandalous Charleston, and Charleston Lost and Found, is a writer for the Post and Courier.

The Cooper River area is described as a “remarkably intact historic and cultural landscape,” offering a glimpse into the essential elements of life in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Visitors can imagine themselves as early settlers, witnessing the significant changes in the landscape from surrounding cities and exploring an area integral to the colonial system and early nation-building.

The first stop was the Biggin Church ruins (c. 1711), where Handal

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LENS Seeks Nominations for Safety Awards

BY LENS FOUNDATION

The Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support (LENS) Foundation, Isle of Palms has announced that nominations are now open for the annual LENS Community Public Safety Awards, which recognize outstanding members of the Isle of Palms Fire and Police departments.

This prestigious award celebrates public safety personnel who exemplify the power of collaboration and partnerships in making our community safer. The LENS Community Public Safety Award identifies and rewards best practices in community involvement by recognizing individuals who:

• Positively impact the lives and experiences of their coworkers, citizens, and the community at large.

• Implement new programs or initiatives addressing public safety challenges, prevention, and community trust.

• Create and foster productive community partnerships.

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PHOTOS BY: ROB BYKO PHOTOGRAPHY

Letter from the Mayor...

PUBLISHERS OF:

The Island Eye News

The Island Connection SiP Magazine

EDITOR ieneditor@luckydognews.com

ADVERTISING

advertising@mylonews.com 267-225-0192

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER

Christian Senger

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Swan Richards

CONSULTANT

Lynn Pierotti

CONTRIBUTORS: Joshua Uys

Laura Strecker

Ben Homeyer

Mike Walsh

Rom Reddy

John Nelson

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

Dear Island neighbors, Well, ready or not, here are the holidays! I hope all of you and your families have a Merry Christmas and/or Happy Hanukkah (which begins the evening of Dec. 25 this year).

Holiday Fire Safety Tips

The last thing anyone wants at any time of the year, but especially during this season, is a fire. Fire Chief Anthony Stith wants you to be aware of seasonal problems to avoid:

• Keep your Christmas tree well-hydrated. Check the water level in the stand regularly.

• Inspect holiday lights and decorations. Replace frayed wires and ensure hot bulbs don’t contact flammable materials.

• Keep decorations away from flames. Ensure trees, presents, and other items aren’t near open flames or in places where pets might knock them into the fire.

• Check your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Ensure they’re charged and handy. If their appearance offends your holiday design, stick on some green bows—they’re already red!

• Turkey-frying safety: Fry turkeys outdoors, away from structures or low-hanging trees. Use the correct amount of oil to avoid spills, ensure the turkey is fully defrosted, and never leave the setup unattended. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Holiday Home Safety Tips

Chief of Police Glenn Meadows has suggestions to keep your home safe, especially if you’re traveling:

• Avoid package theft. Arrange for a neighbor to collect deliveries or schedule them for when you’re home.

• Hold mail and newspapers. Accumulating mail signals an empty home.

• Use the house watch program. To enroll:

» Download the form at bit.ly/SIHouse. Watch, fill it out, and drop it off at Town Hall during business hours.

» Email a photo or PDF of the completed form to Chief Meadows at gmeadows@sullivansisland.sc.gov.

» Text a photo or PDF of the form to Chief Meadows at 843834-4298.

Chief Meadows guarantees that all house watch requests will be handled promptly—how’s that for service?

Stith Park Master Plan Update

At our Nov. 19 council meeting, the proposed Stith Park master plan was approved with changes. The observation tower and potential swimming pool or community center were removed from consideration.

The Recreation Committee will resume discussions at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 17, focusing on phasing improvements for the park based on the most pressing needs.

New Year’s Day Polar Plunge

The 30th Annual Polar Plunge, hosted by Dunleavy’s Pub, is a cherished island tradition. The plunge will take place at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1, with festivities beginning earlier. The trek to the beach starts at 1:30 p.m., so plan ahead.

from page 1

• Reduce violent crime or significantly enhance public safety and satisfaction through innovative problem-solving. How to Nominate

• Nominations are open to Isle of Palms citizens and city staff who wish to highlight the outstanding efforts of Isle of Palms Fire and Police Department employees. Nominations can be submitted via:

• Online form: Visit LENSIOP. org/Public-Safety-Awards to fill out the nomination form.

• Email: Send nominations to Rob Hauff at hauffer@gmail. com.

The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2025.

Award Ceremony

Winners will be announced and honored at the LENS Neighborhood Block Party on May 12, 2025. This annual celebration brings the community together and provides a special platform to recognize the dedicated public safety personnel who work tirelessly to protect and serve Isle of Palms.

“We are fortunate to have exceptional individuals in our Fire and Police departments who use collaboration, innovation, and partnership to create a safer, stronger community,” said Ted Kinghorn, director of LENS Foundation IOP. “This award is our way of celebrating their leadership, service, and dedication.”

Don’t miss the opportunity to spotlight a deserving individual for their hard work, leadership, and commitment to our community. Submit your nomination today.

DEADLINE: Dec. 4 for our Dec. 13 issue For more information and for digital flip-throughs of current and past issues, please visit mylolowcountry.com

Many island restaurants will offer special outdoor food and beverage service. Please drive carefully through the commercial district, as Station 22½ seaward of Middle Street will be closed to traffic for most of the day.

Op-eds and Letters to the Editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lucky Dog Publishing or its staff.

Reason for the Freezin’: The event raises funds for Special Olympics South Carolina. Bring cash to donate to volunteers, or contribute online at . Checks made out to “Special Olympics South Carolina” can also be dropped off at the pub.

Participant Tip: Wear dunkable footwear to avoid the discomfort of running barefoot over cold, hard sand.

Wear your wackiest costume and join the fun. Let’s celebrate this wonderful family tradition together!

And with that, Happy New Year!

See you around the island!

Pat O’Neil, Mayor 843 670 9266 oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov

PHOTOS BY WAYNE STELGAS

Holiday Street Festival

IOP, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Seeing Double

ISLANDER 71 CELEBRATING NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH TWO EXCLUSIVE EVENTS

BY CHRISTIAN SENGER

Islander 71 is celebrating New Year’s Eve with two unique events on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Whether you prefer an intimate dining experience or a high-energy rooftop party, the bar and restaurant have an evening planned to help you ring in 2025.

Guests can enjoy a four-course dinner in the main dining room, with seatings at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Priced at $115 per person, the menu will feature dishes showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Reservations are now open via Resy.

For those seeking a vibrant celebration, head to Islander 71’s heated rooftop deck for a party under the stars. The event will run from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. and features:

• DJ spinning live music all night

• Welcome cocktail to kick off the festivities

• Light bites

• A champagne toast at midnight Tickets are $65 if purchased in advance.

“New Year’s Eve is one of our favorite nights to host here at Islander 71,” said Jared Coetzee, director of operations at Islander 71. “This year, we wanted to create two incredible experiences—one for those seeking an elegant dinner and one for those looking to celebrate with energy and fun. With stunning waterfront views and unmatched vibes, Islander 71 is the place to be this New Year’s Eve.”

Step Inside Movie-Inspired Holiday Homes at Wild Dunes Resort

BY CHRISTIAN SENGER

This holiday season, experience the charm of beloved Christmas movies brought to life at Wild Dunes Resort’s Movie Home for the Holidays. The resort’s vacation homes will be transformed into themed spaces like Buddy’s Workshop and the Griswold’s Christmas Vacation, creating an immersive holiday experience.

Each home will be decorated to reflect the movies, complete with themed activities, festive treats, and fun surprises to keep the holiday spirit alive. With Buddy the Elf’s joyful energy and the Griswold family’s classic holiday antics, guests of all ages are in for an adventure filled with fun and nostalgia.

Buddy’s Workshop

PHOTO BY TED KINGHORN

Spread Christmas cheer with Buddy the Elf in this cozy, candythemed retreat. The three-bedroom Elf-inspired home includes:

• “Buddy’s Box of Cheer" featuring a DIY Elf breakfast kit, Wild Dunes Etch-a-Sketch ornament, Legos, s’mores kit, and a snowball fight kit for family fun.

• Two complimentary cocktails at the resort’s holiday pop-up bar, Jingle Bar.

Griswold’s Christmas Vacation

Have the hap-hap-happiest Christmas and celebrate like the Griswolds with quirky holiday flair. The three-bedroom National Lampoon-inspired home includes:

• A “Christmas Like the Griswolds” Box featuring two moose mugs, an eggnog kit, a Wild Dunes Christmas ornament, family Santa hats, a s’mores kit, and a Jelly of the Month Club membership.

• Two complimentary cocktails at the resort’s holiday pop-up bar, Jingle Bar.

Both options are available for stays now through Jan. 3, 2025. To learn more, visit destinationhotels.com/wild-dunes/offers/specialpromotions/movie-homes-for-the-holidays or call 855-579-9963 to book.

IOPPD Awarded Federal Funding to Enhance Officer Mental Health

BY CHRISTIAN SENGER

The Isle of Palms Police Department has been awarded $90,036 in federal funding to enhance officer wellness and mental health. The funding comes from the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act grant, administered through the Office of Community Oriented Police Services. The LEMHWA program supports efforts to improve access to mental health and wellness services for law enforcement by implementing peer support, training, family resources, suicide prevention, and other wellness initiatives.

IOPPD plans to allocate the funding across three project areas:

1. Wellness App for First Responders

The department will purchase Lexipol’s Cordico Wellness App, which provides resources for first responders and their families to address various aspects of wellness.

2. Trauma-Informed Certification

IOPPD will partner with Columbia College to become the first traumainformed law enforcement agency in South Carolina. This initiative will train command staff to understand the long-term impact of trauma, address how trauma affects officer performance and retention, and develop strategies to build resilience through trauma-informed practices.

3. Statewide Training and Symposium

The department plans to train law enforcement officers across South Carolina in better tools and methods to address trauma. This will include hosting a symposium where top mental health and wellness experts will meet with officers statewide. The training will be provided free of charge to ensure accessibility without burdening agency budgets.

“It has been a goal for my agency to rethink how we promote wellness. We want to take a 360-degree wellness approach, focusing on mental health and all the factors that can cause issues in this profession. We want our officers to be stronger and healthier, not just physically, but mentally,” said IOPPD Chief of Police Kevin Cornett. “I believe a healthy and trained officer will make the communities they serve safer and more connected,” he added.

The LEMHWA grant is 100% federally funded, meaning the City of Isle of Palms did not need to provide a financial match. The grant period runs through Sept. 30, 2026.

TBY CHRISTIAN SENGER

he City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department will kick off the 2025 Free Speaker Series on Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 11 a.m. with Medications, Vaccinations, Supplements, Insurance, Oh My! presented by Joe Gandy, pharmacist at Delta Pharmacy on the Isle of Palms. The program is free to all residents and visitors. The series will take a summer break and resume in September.

Here’s a look at the upcoming schedule:

Medications, Vaccinations, Supplements, Insurance, Oh My!

Joe Gandy, pharmacist, Delta Pharmacy, Isle of Palms

Tuesday, Jan. 7, 11 a.m.

Navigating the College Admissions Process

Lisa Gastaldi, Lowcountry College Counseling

Tuesday, Feb. 4, 5 p.m.

Design Series

Simplify & Organize

Heidi Alexander, Everything in Its Place

Wednesday, March 12, 11 a.m.

Design on a Dime

Elizabeth Newman, Elizabeth Newman Interior Design

Wednesday, March 26, 11 a.m.

Let’s Go Birding!

Charles Donnelly, Holy City Birding

Thursday, March 27, 10 a.m.

Global Ambassador of Good Vibes

Eli Lev, singer-songwriter

Wednesday, April 23, 11 a.m.

All events are held at 24 28th Ave. For the latest events and updates, visit iop.net.

A Sullivan Stopover

The Sullivan’s Island Bird Banding Station had a productive fall migration season, banding 665 birds from 46 different species and recapturing 47 birds previously banded at the station.

As the station transitions to its winter banding season next week, highlights from the fall season included a Philadelphia vireo, two tree swallows, and

variety of warblers, flycatchers, and thrushes were also banded.

exceptional stopover location and wintering ground for migratory songbirds. Many birds return to the same location each year, either for a brief stopover or to spend the winter.

Dewees Island | Featured Coastal Retreats

Historic Tour

Continued from page 1

shared its historical significance as the largest church parish during the early settlement along the Cooper River. The group also learned about the church’s connection to nearby revolutionary battles, its plundering during the Civil War, and African American cemetery traditions.

A highlight of the tour was the Mepkin Abbey Creche Festival, featuring tableaus of the Holy Nativity. The group enjoyed a Lowcountry picnic on the plantation’s high bluff overlooking the scenic Cooper River while learning about the Laurens family's history and their generous donation of the plantation grounds to the Abbey.

Next, the tour visited Taveau Church (c. 1838), which is currently under restoration and will eventually become an event center for the area. Set in the woods as it was in the 19th century, Handal expressed her enthusiasm for the church’s restoration and its preservation from near destruction.

No tour of the Cooper River Historic District would be complete without a stop at Strawberry Chapel (c. 1720) and a historical explanation of the Lost Village of Childsbury (c. 1698), including the legend of the “Chicken Girl” ghost.

All participants agreed that spending the day with the knowledgeable Leigh Jones Handal was a true treat. The experience offered a step back in time, both verbally and scenically, providing a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich history and significance in the early development of the United States. Handal's dedication to educating attendees about Charleston’s heritage makes her tours an experience worth repeating.

ONE LUCKY DOG

BENNY

Owners: Ray, Janalyn and Dax Bowden

Nicknames: Big Head Benny, BeeBee, BooBoo, Benny Boo

Age: 1 ½ years old

Breed: Bull Terrier

Food: Raw Wellness

Favorite Toy: Tug-o-War

Vet: Dr. Patrick

Interpreted by: Katherine Berry

Get ready to rumble because Benny’s here. Eh-hum, that’s me. When we’re close, you’ll smile from ear to ear; it’s my mission. There’s a way to laugh in every situation. I’m a class clown because, well, I’m not only handsome with a physique that embodies my stellar personality, but I’m also hilarious and non-stop entertainment. Woooooooph.

My Moto is to live like someone left the gate open. Everything I do is pure joy, and I do it with gusto. There’s nothing subtle about me, especially when I want something. If you bring your own intention or opinion, that’s amusing, but I’ll find a way to get what I want. Mom says, I’m a high thinker in maneuvering situations to my benefit, but it’s just my style of living.” Again, I’m here for the giggles.

My days are the best. Mom and I start with coffee on the couch and snuggles—those are so nice. Then it’s time for the dog park. Mom read through her’scrolls’ with coffee; now, it’s my turn when we walk to the park. I sniff every single blade of grass, my version of scrolling through the doggie scents to get all the island gossip before I get there. When I get there, it is time to party. When we roll up on the golf cart, which is only in the afternoon, you can hear me talking from several blocks

away.

I am just so excited. It’s hard for me to settle, but that’s why my humans have so many toys and activities for me, and it works. Psst… My backyard bungee tether is the bomb. I jump like I have springs in my feet, then I’m wiped and ready to cool down. So I just lie under the faucet and let it rain on me.

Life is the best. It took me five foster failures and a trip down the east coast to find my humans, and there is no way I’m leaving this crew. I will do whatever is necessary to keep them happy, smiling, grooving, and moving to make sure they feel loved. Their smiles warm my heart and inspire my love for them. It grows bigger and bigger each day. I am their biggest fan, and I want to curl in their laps fur-ever and ever.

Thank you for selecting me to be your lucky dog and loving all my chaos, high five’s and smiles, but sometimes I can be a big of a destroyer. Eh-hum, I may have destroyed a few things—Mom’s laundry pile, freshly made bed, couches looking too tidy to name a few—but again, pay attention to me and we’ll be all good.

PHOTOS BY ROBBIE BERG

Spoleto Festival USA Announces Subscriptions to Exciting 49th Season of Chamber Music Series

BY CHRISTIAN SENGER

Spoleto Festival USA recently announced that subscriptions to the 2025 Spoleto Chamber Music series will go on sale Dec. 3. The cornerstone Festival series is held at the historic Dock Street Theatre from May 23 to June 8.

Attendees can expect new and returning renowned musicians, an appearance by the acclaimed quartet Owls, three world premiere pieces by series composer-in-residence Mahsa Vahdat, and, for the first time in the Festival’s history, two evening performances. Subscription packages include five, six, or 11 program options at discounted prices of up to 30% off and can be purchased at ticketing.spoletousa.org/ packages.

Curated by Charles E. and Andrea L. Volpe, and directed by Paul Wiancko, the series features a repertoire reflecting wide-ranging perspectives, compositional styles, and historical periods. From classical to contemporary, the upcoming program will include original adaptations of music by Ludwig van Beethoven, François Couperin, Johannes Brahms,

Samuel Barber, Franghiz AliZadeh, Antonio Vivaldi, Paul Wiancko, and many others.

“The artists we have lined up for our 49th season are astounding, as are the programs—which run the gamut from timeless classics to modern-day gems,” Wiancko said. “Whether written centuries ago or months ago, this music will move you. A chamber music series subscription guarantees you won’t miss a moment of it.”

The series, a staple of the festival since 1977, includes 33 performances across 11 distinct programs, held twice daily throughout the festival. For the first time, the 49th season will offer two evening performances, deviating from the traditional 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. times to expand audience access. On Thursday, May 29, and Wednesday, June 4, performances will be held at 6 p.m. These new evening performances will cost $45 when single tickets go on sale in January.

“By expanding our performance schedule and introducing flexible subscription options, we hope to welcome a wider range of music lovers

to Spoleto Festival USA,” said Mena Mark Hanna, General Director and CEO. “We're thrilled to share the warmth and breadth of our chamber music series with new audiences while also offering our loyal subscribers even more opportunities to experience the magic of the festival.”

Internationally acclaimed Iranian singer and women’s rights advocate Mahsa Vahdat will be the 2025 Chamber Music series composer-in-residence. Vahdat’s voice is deeply rooted in the heritage of Iran, and her musical expression and repertoire have defied the bans on music and solo women singers imposed by Iranian authorities after the 1979 Islamic revolution. The series will feature the world premieres of three new works by Vahdat for voice, piano, and cello.

The innovative quartet Owls— with members violinist Alexi Kenney, violist Ayane Kozasa, cellists Gabriel Cabezas and Paul Wiancko—will be the resident ensemble for the first three programs. Owls, joined by other artists, will perform original adaptations of classical works and one of former Director of Chamber Music Geoff Nuttall’s personal favorites, When the Night by Wiancko.

The full artist roster and repertoire will be announced in early 2025. Individual performance tickets will be available. For more information about Spoleto Festival USA, visit spoletousa.org.

AROUND THE ISLANDS

ONGOING

WHAT: Holiday Festival of Lights

WHERE: James Island County Park

WHEN: Nightly from 5:30 – 10 p.m. through Dec. 31, 2024

MORE INFO: Join us to cruise along the three-mile display of multicolored lights throughout the park, featuring over 750 light displays or tour other areas of the park, family fun activities, holiday shopping, food and treats, and much more.

WHAT: Aquarium Aglow

WHERE: South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston

WHEN: On select evenings this November and December

MORE INFO: Along with larger-than-life installations created from thousands of lights, Aquarium Aglow includes festive photo ops and the most unique Santa encounter in Charleston, Scuba Claus. Food and drinks, including a selection of alcoholic beverages, will be available for purchase. For more info visit scaquarium.org/aglow.

WHAT: Little Pine, A Holiday Pop-up

WHERE: Little Palm at The Ryder Hotel, 237 Meeting Street, Charleston

WHEN: Various times from Nov. 8 to Jan. 5

MORE INFO: Grab your ugly sweater and get ready for spiked eggnog because this winter, we transport you into a holiday state of mind. Sip seasonal beverages with festive fare inside our cozy gondolas, perfect for groups of up to four. Extend your holiday fun by hitting the synthetic ice rink in The Backyard. Ice skating is available for $15 per person, including skate rentals.

WHAT: Skate the Stadium

WHERE: Credit One Stadium

WHEN: Select nights through December 29

MORE INFO: A perfect setting to celebrate the magic of the season. After a fun skate, guests can enjoy classic winter treats like s’mores, cinnamon sugar pretzels and hot chocolate—and for 21+ guests there will be seasonal beers and specialty cocktails to warm up. New this year is the Outdoor Holiday Movie Series, taking place every Friday night in December, offering free holiday movie screenings on the stadium’s lawn.

WHAT: Sippin’ Santa Holiday Pop-up Bar

WHERE: Prohibition, 547 King Street, Charleston

WHEN: Daily from 11 am - 2 am through Jan. 1

MORE INFO: Floor-to-ceiling decoration, menus featuring festive original cocktails in signature Christmas mugs and glassware and food menus created for the holiday season. Christmas cocktails from years past, as well as some new.

6:33am/6:55pm 7:25am/7:47pm 8:15am/8:37pm 9:04am/9:26pm 9:51am/10:15pm 10:37am/11:05pm 11:22am/11:56pm 12:08pm 12:49am/12:55pm 1:42am/1:45pm 2:36am/2:36pm 3:28am/3:28pm 4:18am/4:19pm 5:07am/5:09pm 12:00am/12:53pm 12:51am/1:44pm 1:41am/2:33pm 2:30am/3:21pm 3:19am/4:07pm 4:07am/4:53pm 4:56am/5:39pm 5:47am/6:24pm 6:41am/7:10pm 7:39am/7:57pm 8:38am/8:44pm 9:34am/9:32pm 10:27am/10:19pm 11:16am/11:05pm

WHAT: Cougar Night Lights

WHERE: Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston

WHEN: Nightly every half hour between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. through Jan. 2, 2025

MORE INFO: The 8th annual Cougar Night Lights will capture the magic of the holidays with dazzling light displays set to classic holiday tunes and popular contemporary songs. A total of 46,490 lights will illuminate Cistern Yard during this month-long program.

WHAT: Charleston’s Nutcracker

WHERE: Sottile Theatre, 44 George Street, Charleston

WHEN: Multiple performances from Dec. 20 to Dec. 22

MORE INFO: Palmetto City Ballet presents this annual holiday classic. Join Clara, a young orphan girl, on a thrilling adventure filled with menacing shadows, dancing snowflakes, delicious gumdrops, and a bustling town marketplace.

WHAT: Holidays on Hutson

WHERE: Huston Alley, 39C-G, John St, Charleston

WHEN: 5 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through Dec. 21

MORE INFO: Hutson Alley will deck the halls with lights, ornaments, trees, and more. Snow will fall from the sky twice a night as you sip hot chocolate among the lights. There will be s’mores kits available for purchase and festive cocktails from Charleston’s Smallest Bar.

WHAT: The Charleston Christmas Special

WHERE: Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St, Charleston

WHEN: Multiple performances through Dec. 22

MORE INFO: Brad and Jennifer Moranz have delighted audiences of all ages with their holiday musical show featuring some of the country’s most talented singers, dancers and musicians.

WHAT: A Christmas Carol

WHERE: Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church St, Charleston

WHEN: Multiple performances through December 22

MORE INFO: Experience the magic of the season with their beloved musical production of "A Christmas Carol," Charles Dickens’ classic tale of redemption and holiday spirit.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

WHAT: 33rd Annual Reindeer Run

WHERE: Downtown Charleston WHEN: 8 a.m.

MORE INFO: Half-Moon Outfitters Reindeer Run is a familyoriented, pet-friendly 5k run/walk located in downtown Charleston. The funds benefit the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.

WHAT: Oysters on the Point

WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd. WHEN: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: The resort will kick off its wintertime Oysters on the Point series with live music from Dallas Baker and Friends. Look forward to an afternoon of steamed oysters and cold beverages along with a prime viewing spot to watch the annual holiday parade.

WHAT: Holiday Parade of Boats

WHERE: Charleston Harbor WHEN: 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: The annual Holiday Parade of Boats. This display of lighted and festive boats proceeds from the Cooper River through Charleston Harbor and into the Ashley River.

WHAT: Wreath Making and Wine Tasting

WHERE: The Restaurant at Zero George, 0 George St., Charleston WHEN: 12:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: A festive wreath-making workshop led by local Charleston florist Astilbe, paired with a guided wine tasting featuring three handpicked selections by a Zero George sommelier. Take home your custom holiday wreath along with a bottle of your favorite wine from the tasting.

WHAT: Grand Illumination & Dinner

WHERE: Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Rd., Charleston WHEN: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

MORE INFO: As you make your way through the torch-lit gardens, you’ll meet historical reenactors, after the theatrical presentation, enjoy a feast in the Pavilion.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15

WHAT: Breakfast With Santa WHERE: Wild Dunes Resort WHEN: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

MORE INFO: Santa is coming to Wild Dunes for a festive breakfast. Capture the memories with a professional photographer on-site to make this event truly unforgettable. Parents can also indulge in the Mimosa and Bloody Mary bar throughout the event.

Shining Stars

BY CHRISTIAN SENGER

The McConnell Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing research for safe and effective pediatric cancer treatments, announced that it raised $85,000 for the MUSC Children’s Health research lab led by Dr. Jacqueline Kraveka.

Now in its third year, the McConnell Foundation’s Shining Stars Gala, held back on Sept. 14, brought together more than 200 attendees to raise funds supporting clinical trials for safer and more effective cancer treatment options for children.

“Watching a child battle cancer offers a poignant reminder of how vulnerable we are,” said Jen and Josh McConnell, who founded the McConnell Foundation in 2021 after their son’s successful treatment for neuroblastoma at MUSC. “Only 4% of cancer funding is dedicated to developing medications for children. One of the medications used to treat our son was developed before his grandparents were born. It is critical we do better for the next generation by supporting those capable of changing this and ensuring children of tomorrow

don’t face the same obstacles. Our foundation and annual gala are our way of trying to do just that.”

Dr. Kraveka is part of a national network of oncologists who collaborate, supported by private funding from organizations like the McConnell Foundation, to develop safer and more effective treatments for children. The network’s most recent success is a relapse prevention drug known as DFMO, approved by the FDA in December 2023 for use worldwide. This breakthrough offers new hope to families of children with high-risk neuroblastoma tumors.

“I’ve been working with children with cancer and blood disorders for over 27 years,” said Dr. Kraveka. “The clinical trials I’ve conducted here at MUSC are vital because they demonstrate the success of medications that can reduce cancer relapse risk by 50%. The biggest challenge we face in treating these children is funding for these trials. The work we are doing would be impossible without the support of the McConnell Foundation.”