IEN Jan 12 2024

IOP Council Members check their differences at the door – for now

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

Members of the Isle of Palms City Council have spent the better part of the last two years at each other’s throats, arguing relentlessly and with great enthusiasm over an array of topics ranging from leases at the IOP Marina to disappearing beaches to traffic entering and leaving the island. By the time their strife-weary constituents trudged to the polls in November to cast their votes and determine the fate of a referendum that would have limited the number of short-term rentals on the island, the magnitude of animosity had reached a point that might have exceeded the level of noise emanating from the Sweetgrass Inn and raising the rancor of nearby residents in Wild Dunes.

All that was put aside, at least temporarily, on Jan. 2, when the Council’s new and re-elected members were sworn in, Mayor Phillip Pounds urged his colleagues to “treat each other with the utmost respect and engage in civil discourse” and (Continued on page 8)

With expectations exceeded, LENS looks to grow in 2024

By Brian Sherman

For The Island Eye News

When the Isle of Palms Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support program was launched at the beginning of 2022, the volunteer organization set its sights on raising funds help law enforcement families in need, boost morale and enhance the relationship between the IOP Police Department and the community.

In its first two years, LENS has reached well beyond those goals, establishing programs and sponsoring events that strengthen the connection between law enforcement and the people they protect.

There’s more to come in 2024, according to “LENS Whisperer” Ted Kinghorn.

“We have exceeded all expectations – ours and the Police Department’s,” said Kinghorn, who added that in its first two years of existence, LENS has served 100 public safety families and 800 community members and spent more than $120,000 on various projects.

“LENS

passes to the Carolina Coastal Fair for officers and their family members, special appreciation dinners and educational scholarships.

provides the marketing, the resources and the venue and handles the registration. We set the table and the partner is the implementer.”

The LENS program has supported the IOP Police Department by sponsoring the Department’s annual awards banquet, National Night Out and a public safety open house. Other morale-boosting initiatives have included the annual LENS banquet, back to school supply gift cards,

• Ted Kinghorn

LENS has served the IOP and Sullivan’s Island communities as well with a bike rodeo safety program; back to school night at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School; courses on water safety for kids and on boat certification; a crabbing event; a community wine tasting; an environment and conservation expo; and a scholarship for a medical student. Not content to rest on their laurels, the LENS volunteers have come up with several new programs for 2024. For (Continued on page 4)

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The Island Eye News

The Island Connection SiP Magazine • “Where To” Map

Brian Sherman • Editor ieneditor@luckydognews.com

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Jeff Lovins • Sales Manager jeff@luckydognews.com 843-885-8662

Lynn Pierotti • Consultant lynn@luckydognews.com

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CONTRIBUTORS:

Robbie Berg • Katherine Berry

Diann Lyons Clark • Tammy Cox

Cyndy Ewing • Ted Kinghorn Mary Pringle

PUBLISHED BY

Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS

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Jan. 17 for our Jan. 26 issue

The Island Eye News, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC, is a free, independent newspaper published every two weeks and is for and about the Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Goat Island and Dewees Island. Copies are mailed free of charge to every active mailbox in our coverage area and are also available at area businesses. Contributions of information, pictures and articles are welcomed, are used according to space limitations and news value and cannot be returned except by special request. Op-ed articles and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Lucky Dog News or its writers. All Advertising rates are listed at: islandeyenews.com under “advertising.”

About the water we wanted and the water we didn’t want

Dear Island Neighbors,

Happy New Year. I hope all of you and your families had a great holiday season and are on your way to a happy and healthy 2024.

Apparently, our recent Christmas theme was “On Comet! On Cupid! On Donder and Flipper.” Wait – Flipper? The nor’easter that visited us on Dec. 17 gave us both the predicted rain flooding and the extremely underpredicted tidal flooding, capped off with several more inches of rain in our stockings on Christmas and Boxing days.

Regrettably, the result of all that weather was quite visible and especially obvious to residents who experienced flooding at home or on their streets and to anyone who checked out the beach. Shortly after the Dec. 17 event, town staff got a quote from a contractor we had previously used for post-storm beach and street cleanup, and we engaged them to get started as soon as possible. The tab will be somewhat over $100,000, showing why we have emergency reserves. Odds are slim of a federal disaster declaration, which would reimburse us for that expense, but we have the documentation needed should that opportunity arise.

As always, we owe many thanks to our town staff, who were on the scene during and after these events to try to keep us safe.

More about the water we don’t want

These recent experiences demonstrate the importance of several town storm- and stormwater-related projects at various stages as of now. You can read about them all at bit.ly/SICTP.

Sullivan’s Island Stormwater Master Plan • $150,000 federal grant - The town has hired an engineering firm to conduct an island-wide study of existing conditions of all ditches, pipes, inlets and outfalls. The plan will identify a priority list of system improvements, cleaning or replacement to establish the best functioning drainage system possible for the Island.

Island-wide drainage improvements • $9.2 million state and federal grant - Master Plan data will be used to construct required improvements across four watersheds: Stations 16, 25, 28.5 and 31. Engineers will first design these improvements, followed by construction of any needed ditches, pipes, inlets and outfalls to create a more functional system. Construction work is estimated to take place through 2025.

Resident drainage and flooding concerns survey - Our master plan team has created an online resident survey so they can formally document flooding/drainage issues as part of their master planning work – noting

time/location of flooding, severity and photos. Please provide any information from your experiences so we can identify priority areas for grants and other purposes: bit.ly/SMPandIIS. Click the blue box on the right side of the page to get to the survey.

And this about the water we do want

On Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 5 p.m., before our regular Council meeting at 6 p.m., we will have a public hearing on possible changes to our rate structure for domestic and irrigation water usage. Please attend in person or view it online to learn about potential changes.

Thanks for supporting the SIPD bike drive

On behalf of our entire Police Department and other town staff who helped with our SIPD Christmas bike drive, thanks to all of you whose generosity made this year’s effort a record-busting success. Deputy Chief of Police Glenn Meadows asked me to “send ‘a thank you’ to our community, churches and business partners for making the third Annual SIPD bike drive benefiting Toys for Tots such a huge success. Because of the generosity shown by so many of you, we exceeded our goal of 300 bikes. We delivered 355 bikes and over 70 helmets to Toys for Tots for distribution to children throughout the Charleston tri-county area.”

Thanks to all of you who contributed bikes and helmets, to Timmy Hayes Moving Company for getting the bikes to Toys for Tots headquarters and to all of our town employees, too many to list individually, who assisted with the effort, especially in assembling the bikes. We would like to spotlight three SIPD folks who really stepped up and assembled a very large number of bikes: Nehemiah Clarke, Kierah Beavins and Collin Livingston.

See you around the island.

Mayor Pat O’Neil

843-670-9266 • Twitter: @oneilpm1 oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov

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NOMINATE MYLO NEWS FOR BEST OF CHARLESTON 2024!

The Charleston City Paper is now accepting nominations for their 2024 Best of Charleston Awards and we would be honored if you took the time to vote for us!

THE CITADEL AND SOUTHERN ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCE CONCERT SERIES AT JOHNSON HAGOOD STADIUM

Internationally known musicians will come to Charleston and transform the stadium into one of the area’s largest entertainment venues.

TWO EVENTS LEFT: WILD DUNES AUTHOR EVENT & WEEKEND WITH MARY ALICE MONROE

While the main event is sold out, two exclusive opportunities remain to partake in the island’s premier literary weekend of the year.

IT’S 2024 AND THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO EMBRACE YOUR SWEET STRENGTH

Introducing the Sweet Strength Living Program, a 13-week transformative experience designed exclusively for women to rejuvenate your body, renew your faith, and rewire your mind. It's more than a program; it's a journey to your best self.

NEW YEAR, NEW DIALOGUE WITH YOUR KIDS

As we step into the New Year, it’s not just about the resolutions to lose those extra pounds or to finally organize the garage. For us parents, it's about tackling something much closer to the heart – our relationship with our kids. ‘Let, Lift, & Listen’ shows you how.

MARTIN’S BAR-B-QUE ANNOUNCES SUPER BOWL TO-GO MENU

Super Bowl Sunday isn’t far away and the folks at Martin's Bar-BQue Joint have several food options if you're hosting a party at your home.

Watch this video about IOP beach erosion, property laws, seawall necessity, and the IOP community efforts against misinformation in erosion control.

LENS

Continued from page 1

example, the Wild Child Triathlon is planned for Feb. 25 in Wild Dunes for athletes ages 6 through 12. The age-appropriate competition, limited to 100 participants, will include biking, running and swimming.

Another new addition to the LENS roster of activities, scheduled for April, is a boating safety program called “Suddenly in Command.”

“Let’s say a couple is out boating with their grandchildren and the grandpa has a stroke or something like that,” Kinghorn explained. “How does ‘the non-boating spouse’ get the boat safely back to shore?”

“The community is embracing us with financial support. People have put their money where their mouth is.”

• Ted Kinghorn

The program is offered by the U.S. Coast Guard, one of several professional organizations LENS partners with to attain its goals. Another one of LENS’ strategic partners is the Medical University of South Carolina Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital, which will be participating in a golf cart safety program in March.

“We don’t profess to be experts. LENS provides the marketing, the resources and the venue and handles the registration. We set the table and the partner is the implementer,” Kinghorn said. “We try to get the experts involved.”

He pointed out that the LENS community-oriented programs are open to those who live on and off the Isle of Palms. In fact, two bike rodeos are planned for 2024, both of them at Sunrise Church on Sullivan’s Island, and those who live in Mount Pleasant are welcome to participate as well.

Kinghorn pointed out that LENS is able to attain its goals through the generosity of the community. Its funds come from private donors, sponsorships, events such as the annual LENS banquet, endowments and a local philanthropist who has pledged $15,000 a year for five years, which will be matched by LENS and used for scholarships.

“The community is embracing us with financial support. People have

At Edward Jones, we want to know what you want out of life on a personal level. Then, we want to help you achieve it by creating a financial strategy that’s unique to your specific

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IOP will ‘vigorously defend’ suit filed by former police officer

By Brian Sherman For The Island Eye News

The city of Isle of Palms intends to “vigorously defend” itself against a lawsuit filed in December 2023 by a former Police Department employee who claims discrimination based on her sex and a disability and in retaliation for complaints concerning her situation.

The suit was filed Dec. 14 in the Court of Common Pleas by Louise Hardy, who worked in the IOP Police Department from August 2014 until she resigned in June 2023.

“Due to taking FMLA, I was given low scores on my evaluation. … My physician instituted certain restrictions. My employer decided that the restrictions could not be followed and was going to terminate my employment,” the lawsuit states.

“The city denies the allegations and plans to vigorously defend this lawsuit.”

• IOP City Administrator Desiree Fragoso

The only comment from IOP on the pending litigation came from City Administrator Desiree Fragoso: “The city is committed to providing a safe and supportive work environment for all employees and takes any alleged workplace discrimination claims seriously. The city denies the allegations and plans to vigorously defend this lawsuit.”

According to the lawsuit, Hardy was considered to be “an exemplary employee” and that during most of her time with the department she had “met or exceeded my expectations until my perceived disability.” That all changed, she claimed, when she suffered a foot injury that required surgery and caused permanent nerve damage. She said she was treated differently after taking time off from work under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

The suit also claims that during her employment with the IOP Police Department, she was subjected to negative comments about women, including that they have small brains and cannot be doctors or judges and “constant demeaning comments regarding the ability of women.”

“I realized that women were treated differently in the department, and, further, women were be-

ing subjected to hostility and obscene commentary by certain officers. I complained about these issues. As a result of those reports, I was accused of violating the policies and procedures of the employer,” the suit claims.

According to the lawsuit, after Hardy brought up the subject of discrimination, Police Chief Kevin Cornett refused to communicate with her, except by email, and that “no reasonable person would have remained employed with the defendant.”

The suit claims that “as a result of the defendant’s actions, Ms. Hardy has suffered irreparable injuries, including but not limited to loss of pay, benefits and other economic losses, emotional pain and suffering, mental anguish, humiliation, embarrassment, personal indignity and other intangible injuries for all of which she should be compensated.”

Are you ready to splash, sprint and ride?

By Ted Kinghorn For The Island Eye News

Get ready for a splash, sprint and ride at the Wild Child Triathlon, to be hosted Feb. 25 by the Isle of Palms Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support program.

This exhilarating event will take place at the picturesque Palmetto Hall in the Wild Dunes Resort. Open to young triathletes ages 6 through 12, the race features swimming, biking and running segments and will be capped at

100 spirited participants to ensure a personalized experience.

Mark your calendars for Feb. 25, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and be a part of this USTA-sanctioned event. Register the day of the event at Palmetto Hall and stay for the post-race celebration with lively music from a DJ.

The Wild Child Triathlon is not just a race –it’s a cause. Proceeds will support future youth and family programs. Don’t miss out – dive into the challenge and fun at lensiop.org.

Wing in the new year with Battery Gadsden

By Cyndy Ewing For The Island Eye News

Battery Gadsden Cultural Center’s first speaker of 2024 will be renowned nature photographer Cacky Rivers. The program is scheduled for Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. in the Sunrise Presbyterian Church sanctuary.

Rivers’ favorite subjects are our many feathered friends, especially the raptors that call the Lowcountry home. Her love of birds was inherited from her father, the late Dr. Thomas Pinckney Rutledge Rivers, who taught her to “slow down and look up.”

Rivers will be sharing many of the beautiful images she captured for her first book, “Grounded in Flight,” as well as her newest publication, “Born and Raised,” which has been praised as “an exquisite new book of photography capturing the captivating birds of the South Carolina Lowcountry.”

Whether you’re an avid bird lover, a nature enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the natural beauty of the Palmetto State, Rivers will take you on a remarkable journey through the lens of her camera, unveiling a stunning collection that celebrates the region’s avian wonders. Focusing on relationships between parents and their young, you’ll immerse yourself in a tapestry of vibrant plumage, graceful flight and intimate moments of the fledging process frozen in time. With unparalleled skill and a deep appreciation for nature, Rivers expertly captures the birth story of a wide range of unique bird species. From the majestic herons and egrets of the Carolina swamps to skittering terns and skimmers of the salt-kissed Crab Bank to the grand ospreys and eagles that never fail to inspire, this visual symphony takes you on an awe-inspiring tour of avian life.

Rivers’ new book will be available for purchase, and she will be signing copies after the event.

GaryFest set for Jan. 13

By Diann Lyons Clark For The Island Eye News

All are welcome to GaryFest 2024 Jan. 13 at the Windjammer on Isle of Palms. Admission is free, and the event is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m.

What started as a celebration of life for Gary Lyons in 2022 is evolving into everything Gary loved – a music festival and gathering of good friends, old and new. GaryFest 2024 will benefit Carolina Studios, whose mission is to provide students with a safe environment that fosters creative, educational and career-focused initiatives through music, technology and media arts. Carolina Studios will graciously accept donations to help continue its cause.

Island friends will be playing music throughout the day, including Sons a Pitches with Adele Deas and husband Bob Tobin Sr., Ed Hunnicutt and Bob Sachs; Bourbon and Mead, with Rick and Gail Pohl, Rand Randinelli, Andy Davidson and Casey Himel; and the Garey Brothers – Bobby, Ranny and Wyatt. Closing the day will be Gary’s own band of brothers, the Knuckleheads, including Edwin Porter, Dan Olivier and Tom Danielson. Bring your friends for this fun, family friendly afternoon on the beach and please support Carolina Studios. To learn more, visit carolinastudios. net, call 843-568-4770 or email Dclark4101@yahoo.com

There’s a new boat club at the IOP Marina

COME CHECK US OUT

BOAT CLUB

Offers the ultimate boating experience without the hassles of ownership

• Experience the charm of the Lowcountry waterways, where boating dreams come to life

• Take advantage of exclusive perks as a member of our Boat Club

• Brand new Center Consoles

Hassle-free boating lifestyle where we do all the work for you

Access reservations through our Custom App for easy bookings

• Unlimited access with future reservation options as well as day-of opportunities

• Access to the four sister locations throughout the Charleston area

• IOP Marina offers a unique combination of a neighborhood ambiance

A one-stop shop for all your boating needs

BOAT RENTALS

• Completely revamped and upgraded marina facilities & services

• IOP Marina offers the freedom of boating to all with our new Boat Rental fleet

Wide range of boats tailored to your needs and preferences, pontoons & center consoles

• Perfect for both experienced boaters and beginners discovering a new hobby

• Convenient online booking system for quick and easy reservations

• Benefit from our professional staff's expertise and personalized recommendations

NOW OPEN: SHIP STORE

Newly revamped and upgraded

• Start the day right with a delightful cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast at our waterfront café

• Mouthwatering lunches made from locally sourced ingredients, served fresh

Full range of convenience store items and services for last-minute needs

A new year and a new Isle of Palms City Council

Differences

Continued from page 1

a local pastor pointed out prior to his invocation that “we need our leaders, especially our elected leaders, to set the temperature and tone for the people.”

The Council now includes incumbents Pounds, John Bogosian, Jimmy Ward, Jan Anderson, Blair Hahn, Katie Miars and Scott Pierce, along with newcomers Ashley Carroll and Elizabeth Campsen.

The good cheer of the new year even extended into the first official Council meeting of 2024, which followed the swearing-in ceremony. With mostly unanimous votes, Bogosian, Campsen and Carroll were granted seats on the Administration Committee; Anderson, Bogosian and Ward were elected to the Public Safety Committee; and Hahn, Miars and Pierce were named to the Public Services & Facilities Committee.

In addition, the Council appointed four members of the Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee: Ray Burns, Rebecca Kovalich, Park Williams and Mike Boykin; four members of the Planning Commission: Jeffrey Rubin, Suzanne Nagelski, Ron Denton and Richard Steinert;

four members of the Environmental Advisory Committee: Laura Lovins, Dane Buckout, Todd Murphy and Lucia Spiotta; and three members of the Board of Zoning Appeals: Ellen Gower, Susan Wheeler and Robert Miller.

In other action, the Council appointed Michael Molony city judge; Chris Skipper associate judge; Mac McQuillin city attorney; and Culver Kidd city prosecutor. Ward was named to the CARTA board of directors; Pounds to the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau; Anderson to the Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester Council of Governments; and Miars as the liaison to the Environmental Advisory Committee.

Ward cast most of the dissenting votes, for Anderson and Bogosian for seats on the Public Safety Committee and for the BZA slate of candidates. Hahn might or might not have been serious when he voted against his own appointment to the Public Services & Facilities Committee.

“We all come from different parts of the country, with diverse backgrounds, different work and personal experience and alternate views,” Pounds told the large crowd that assembled to welcome the new Council. “We certainly won’t agree on each project or issue we will be faced with, but

our residents expect us to be prepared, engaged, deliberate the issues constructively and fully and then to arrive at the best decisions for our community – that’s the only agenda that should be driving us all.”

“The past two years we have made significant progress on many fronts, and I know we will continue that progress,” the mayor added. “I challenge each of us in the new year to renew our commitment to our community and become more involved with the events, programs and volunteer opportunities that are available to us and make an extra effort to get to know our neighbors. There are some fascinating residents on our island, from many different walks of life, if you take the time to engage with them.”

DeepWater Church Pastor Paul Coleman, who presented both the invocation and the benediction, also encouraged Council members to be respectful of one another.

“While we desire unity, understandably there is never uniformity,” he said. “We have opinions and are passionate about our views. But I implore you to be respectful and remember that the temperature and tone of this room many times sets the temperature and tone for these 7 miles.”

Lifesaving research

The McConnell Foundation recently presented a check for $45,000 to the Medical University of South Carolina. The money was raised by the nonprofit at its 2023 gala, held to benefit pediatric cancer research. Jen and Josh McConnell, residents of the Isle of Palms, were inspired to establish the Foundation after their son, Bodhi, survived a stage 3 neuroblastoma diagnosis when he was just 5 months old. Left to right: Back row: Dr. Jacqueline Kraveka, who headed Bodhi’s lifesaving team, Jen McConnell and Josh McConnell. Front row: Bodhi McConnell and Bennett McConnell.

75 years of serving the Isle of Palms community

By Robbie Berg For The Island Eye News

On New Year’s Eve, I reflected on the many thank yous I needed to make as IOP Exchange Club president in 2022 and 2023 and IOPCC president in 2023 and 2024. It is an honor and privilege to serve the IOP Exchange Club because of its dedicated members, who are very giving of their time, volunteering for the various fundraisers held during the year, and their donations to our charitable giving in Charleston and Berkeley counties.

On April 24, 2023, the Isle of Palms Exchange Club became 75 years old. Congratulations to our current members and members over the years for making this happen.

Our 75th year – 2023 – started with the Shag by the Sea Shag Dance and ended with 85 flags being flown at the Exchange Club for the Flags for Heroes Program, which benefits veterans and the organizations that serve them. During the year, our members and others helped with the Bud and Cecily Stack Oyster Roast, providing eight scholarships for deserving youth and funds for various youth activities in the community and for Charleston-area students. Of course, the IOP Connector Run is wellknown for the proceeds going to child abuse prevention agencies, plus community support on the Isle of Palms.

Many of you are aware of these programs, but one very demanding part of the IOP Exchange Club is the upkeep of the building and grounds. Some people would say this only benefits Exchange members, but that’s not exactly the case. Even though families and nonprofits pay rental fees to use the facilities, what transpires during these events is priceless to our renters. Weddings, class reunions, family memorials and employee appreciation parties are offered a location for meaningful and memory-filled events. To provide the building and grounds takes a “large village” of volunteers; many thanks to the members who help make these events work.

A final thank you goes to our members and the community for the completion of the final phase of our waterfront improvement sea wall and walkway.

Shag Lessons and Dance set for Feb. 18

By Robbie Berg For The Island Eye News

Join the Isle of Palms Exchange Club and East Cooper Shag Club for some shagging fun and great dance music at the IOP Exchange Club, located at 102 Palm Blvd. on Hamlin Creek.

The Isle of Palms Exchange Shag Lessons and Dance is scheduled for Feb. 18. Lessons, at a cost of $10 per person, are slated from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., while the dance, also $10, will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The lessons will be provided by Carol Weeks and Tony Hiott of Mount Pleasant, and Furman Dominick will be the DJ for the dance.

Island Eye • COMMENTARY

Reddy or not

Weaponization of government

By Rom Reddy

Government is being increasingly weaponized against its citizens in so many ways that we have forgotten the concept of “we the people.” We are being forced to forget that government works for us. The police powers being exercised by various government entities is frightening. They pull out the entire tool kit, including trying to pit citizen against citizen.

The latest is the land grab by SCDHEC/OCRM. For waterfront properties, regardless of property lines – for which we’ve paid money and pay taxes – the state has historically had jurisdiction seaward of a setback line that is evaluated every seven to 10 years. Landward of that line is the property owner’s jurisdiction. The latest interpretation by unelected OCRM bureaucrats of this clear jurisdictional separation is that if a storm knocks out any waterfront property, they automatically have jurisdiction over your private property to the new eroded line – not just beachfront but any waterfront property. Say what?

We are a constitutional republic. In its simplest form, this means the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Both the 14th and Fifth Amendments clearly indicate that private property ownership and protection is one of the cornerstones of liberty. If we don’t have the ability to own and protect our property, the very tenets of freedom are threatened. Every homeowner has a right to protect his or her property, and government cannot take that away without buying that property for “just compensation,” defined by the U.S. Supreme Court as fair market value.

When it comes to waterfront properties of any kind, the state used to

follow a strategy of “retreat,” which means that water and nature will do their thing, and, instead of fighting it, we retreat, and the government buys up any private property that is impacted. That policy was changed recently to “hold the line,” as governments realized that with rising ocean levels, climate change and very aggressive water, there was no viable, economic way to keep retreating.

“B

oth the 14th and Fifth Amendments clearly indicate that private property ownership and protection is one of the cornerstones of liberty.”

However, even though the policy was changed, the regulations were not. Government now uses retreat regulations to threaten and harass citizens and take their land without compensation. Even the Isle of Palms has retreat regulations that do not let homeowners protect their property in any way from these dangerous waters and forces homeowners to suffer the consequences. Why is IOP the only coastal community that has an ordinance giving its government jurisdiction essentially over your entire property landward of the setback line? IOP bows to the OCRM land grab and supports its illegal and unconstitutional actions.

The result is a brewing disaster. In the last nine months, there has been massive property and beach damage. The government so far has spent 80% of its money and effort digging holes in the beach and scraping sand, which does nothing to renourish the beach and drags water into the holes and closer to the shore. Insurance companies are getting nervous, which will impact the availability and cost of insurance for the entire island.

Compare this to Florida, which looked at the same data and the ferocious damage caused by the water and approved 50/50 matching grants to homeowners to build structures that protect their properties. Many of these structures are called terminal walls – versus seawalls – that remain hidden and covered by sand and landscaping and are maintained by the homeowner. Government continues to maintain a dune system that supports natural habitat – and we all support that. The protective structures prevent property damage, are exposed only as a result of a catastrophic event and are covered up shortly after. This gets the government out of the business of managing the destruction of private property.

The results of the Florida strategy have been stunningly effective. This is how they shifted from retreat to hold the line and how government supports the protection of private property rather than working against it.

Our local politicians should understand the issues clearly and learn from others instead of hanging onto old regulations that are clearly producing disastrous results. This is not the time to pit citizen against citizen and divide us. We are one minor storm away from a home falling into the ocean. Once that happens, the boomerang impact on property values and insurance rates for everyone will be catastrophic. The focus should be exclusively on property protection and holding the line, not on exercising police powers using outdated regulations.

Reddy or Not represents the opinion of Lucky Dog Publishing owner Rom Reddy but not necessarily the opinion of the newspaper. In keeping with our philosophy of publishing all opinions, we welcome responses, which must be limited to 400 words and will be published on a space-available basis.

Being a purple martin landlord takes time and commitment

By Mary Pringle

IOP Environmental Advisory Committee

For the Island Eye News

Purple martins are the largest species of swallows in North America. They spend winters in South America and return to the same sites in the Northern Hemisphere each summer to breed. “Scouts” – older birds – begin to arrive in late February, but the migration continues into early June. Their diet consists completely of flying insects. Native Americans provided gourds for them because martins would sound an alarm when crows attacked their crops. With the destruction of old growth forests, these Colonial cavity nesters are now dependent on humans for housing. But simply putting up housing does more harm than good. Purple martins need to be protected from predators and competition with non-native birds that try to take over their housing.

The Purple Martin Conservation Association was founded 36 years ago – the year we started our colony. They have been our mentors and guided us in becoming successful landlords for these very special native birds we have grown to love. If you are interested, please visit the PMCA website at purplemartin.org. This nonprofit group has more advice than what is outlined here as well as an online catalog that offers all the equipment described.

Choice of housing and pole: Each compartment, either gourd or house unit, should be about 12 inches square because each bird is about 9 inches long, with five or six chicks in the nest. Think of a bunch of bananas. Units 6 inches square are not adequate. Large gourds made of heavy white plastic for heat control and having an opening that can be unscrewed for checking the nests are ideal. Heavy aluminum poles are square to prevent rotation. The house or gourds can slide down with a rope or boat winch with pulleys for easy lowering and necessary maintenance.

Placement: Martins require an open area that isn’t under or close to trees or heavy shrubbery because their beautiful aerobatic flight pattern requires lots of space. They avoid a site that is not open because predators such as Cooper’s hawks can hide and attack them if there is tree cover. The minimum suggested distance from trees or buildings for a colony is 40 feet.

Attraction aids: It might take a few years to start a new colony. There are things that can help, such as playing a recording of their song – they might be curious enough to investigate. Pine straw should be placed in the nest cavities each

year to make them look “lived in.” You can even order decoys to attract other martins. We keep a decoy on the perch above our gourds to fool hawks who might swoop in and grab the slowestmoving bird.

Manage for predators and unwanted nesters: If you want martins, you must keep non-native English sparrows and European starlings out by trapping them and removing their nests. Pole guards that look like stovepipes should be put on the pole to prevent climbers such as rat snakes and raccoons. We have a friend whose pole cannot use (Continued on page 14)

This year, we’re celebrating a big one! We’ve been helping people buy, sell, and vacation on the Isle of Palms for 35 years... and counting! Thank you to all the families and friends who have entrusted us with their most important investments and vacation memories. We are still proud to say -

Commitment

Continued from page 13

the stovepipe design, so we tie bird netting around the base of the pole to keep snakes from climbing it. “Owl guards” in the form of bars attached to gourds can prevent aerial predators such as owls, hawks and crows from reaching in and pulling out nestlings.

Routine maintenance: Nest checks are recommended on a regular basis once the eggs are laid. Martin “landlords” all over the country and in Canada can participate in Project MartinWatch – we send in data about each nest and its outcome at the end of the season. While doing this, we can spot issues with nest mites and other parasites that might cause problems for the nestlings. That is why our gourds are numbered. When the chicks are half grown, you should replace the old pine straw nests with clean ones, which helps ensure the health of the birds who stay in the nest, fed by their parents, for about 30 days. You can also remove any starling or sparrow eggs. At the season’s end, it is important to remove the used nests, clean out the units and take them down – or at least plug up the entrance holes to prevent other birds from taking over and keeping martins out the following spring.

Being a landlord requires time and commitment, but the rewards of interacting with and providing for these very special native birds is well worth it. As my husband says, “Watching them is better than TV.”

One Lucky Dog

Owner: Bob and Vicki Fetter. Dog’s name: Zorro • AKA not printable. Age: 10. Breed: Hound mix. Vet: Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital. Food: Canin Welcome to 2024 and the adventures of me – Zorro! Hopefully you appreciate the sacrifice I made to endure this costume. It was for a calendar Mom made Dad, so you know it’s going to be a good year cuz I’m a good boy – with the softest ears on the planet. Sometimes, sacrifices must be made and this happens to be one of them.

Let me tell you about my favorite place on the planet: Grandma’s. I bet you thought I was going to say the beach, but I’m not your average island dog. I am not a beach dog, to my Dad’s dismay, nor am I a golf cart aficionado. My least favorite thing to do is ride on or in anything with wheels. The only time I will get in a car is when the orange collar of protection wraps around my neck. Then I know it’s off to Grandma’s, where I can run for hours. When I was younger, I’d get in the woods at sunrise, bellowing all the way so they knew I was close until it was time to eat dinner. Then I’d eat, sleep and repeat. Heaven.

Some of my favorite things are long walks with Dad, my sunny spots in the backyard, being tucked in with my blue blanket and the trash can. However, eating coffee beans didn’t work out for me. I had a major buzz, zoomed around and broke out of the house, to be found hours later by neighbors.

Maybe, when we meet, I can show you my calendar Mom made. You’ll see I am loved and for that, I am forever a lucky dog.

If you have a “Lucky Dog” with a story to share, email me at LuckydogsIOP@gmail.com to set up a quick visit with you and your pup. Thank you • Katherine.

Music program launched for young children

By Tammy Cox For The Island Eye News

The Isle of Palms Recreation Department is offering a new youth music program for young children – those between the ages of 6 months and 4 years.

“The new ‘Sing, Play, Learn with Miss Crystal’ is an interactive program that utilizes play to encourage creativity and a love for music,” ac-

cording to IOP Recreation Department Director Karrie Ferrell.

The cost of the program is $200 for residents of IOP and $205 for nonresidents. Sessions, which got underway Jan. 8, will be held each Monday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., through March 25. There will be no class on Jan. 15, Jan. 29 and Feb. 19. A caregiver must attend each class with the child. To register, visit IOP.net.

Around the Islands

ONGOING

WHAT: GriefShare Recovery Seminar

WHERE: Great Hall, Church of the Holy Cross, 2520 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island.

WHEN: Every Tuesday, 2-4 p.m., Jan. 9 through April 9, 2024.

MORE INFO: Sponsored by the Church of the Holy Cross, the seminar is free and all are welcome. GriefShare features nationally recognized experts on grief recovery topics. Seminar sessions include “Is This Normal?” “The Challenges of Grief,” “Grief and Your Relationships,” “Why?” and “Guilt and Anger.” To learn more and to register, call 678-523-8783 or email caryn.woodison@gmail.com.

WHAT: Home Economics for Kids

WHERE: IOP Rec Center.

WHEN: Mondays, 3-4 p.m.

MORE INFO: A six-week program, open to kids in grades K through 5, will set up participants for success on how to host a gathering, interact and mingle with others, set a table and comparatively shop prices to get the best deals. To learn more: IOP.net.

WHAT: Sullivan’s Island Story Share • January to December 2024

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island

MORE INFO: The Poe Branch Library is partnering with the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center to collect stories of Sullivan’s Island life, and we need your help. All ages are welcome to participate, and every month will feature a new writing prompt to guide your story. Stories can be as short as a paragraph or several pages. If your story features characters or memories of Sullivan’s Island, we invite you to share these at our Island Story Share sessions and add them to Battery Gadsden and the South Carolina History Room’s repository of island stories. Our first story session will be Saturday, Feb. 3. To learn more and get this month’s prompt, stop by the library or email poe@ccpl.org. Not an island resident? We still encourage you to write and share these valuable memories with your families and come to our story shares to be a part of the audience.

WHAT: Outdoor basketball, pickleball and tennis courts

WHERE: Isle of Palms Rec Center

WHEN: Sunrise to 10 p.m.

MORE INFO: First come, first served basis; pickleball and tennis courts have rules and open play times posted at the gate; courts have lights; courts cannot be reserved; Recreation Department programs and activities have priority. To learn more: IOP.net/recreation.

WHAT: Fitness Court

WHERE: Isle of Palms Rec Center WHEN: Sunrise to sunset

MORE INFO: Outdoor circuit training system designed for adults of all ages and fitness levels. To learn more: IOP.net/recreation.

WHAT: Bridge social club

WHERE: Isle of Palms Rec Center, Tadpole Room WHEN: Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon

MORE INFO: Bring a friend and join in a friendly game of bridge. To learn more: IOP.net/recreation.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

WHAT: Saturday STEM Play

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: Drop in 10 a.m.-noon

MORE INFO: Keep Paper Poe dry. Use supplies to engineer a shelter for Paper Poe. Can you keep him dry for 10 seconds? To learn more: ccpl.org/ branches/Sullivans-island.

TUESDAY, JAUARY 16

WHAT: Gardening with Native Plants to Support Wildlife

WHERE: IOP Rec Center • Magnolia Room WHEN: 6:30-8 p.m.

MORE INFO: Sharleen Johnson of Native Plants to the People will be the speaker for this free program. To learn more: IOP.net.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24

WHAT: POE-etry critique group

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 1 p.m. (after hours)

MORE INFO: Gather with fellow poets to share and improve your work. Bring six copies of one or two poems to share with fellow poets (limit 2-3 pages). To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26

WHAT: So you want to be a chef

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 4-5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Join us as we explore future career pathways and what it takes to get there. Through books, activities, crafts, guest speakers, videos and more, we’ll see where our current interests can take us and try out new ones along the way. Ages 5+. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.

WHAT: After School Art Club for Teens and Tweens

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 4-5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Come hang out after school to experiment with different arts and crafts. Meetings every second and fourth Friday. Grades 6-12. No reservation needed. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27

WHAT: Scrying Eye Craft

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave., Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 11 a.m.

MORE INFO: Celebrate Edgar Allen Poe’s birthday by using the provided supplies to create a crystal ball that peers into the imagination of Edgar Allan Poe. For teens grades 6-12. To learn more: ccpl.org/branches/Sullivans-island.