Since May 2005 PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID CHARLESTON, SC PERMIT NO. 137 POSTAL PATRON
Volume 22 • Issue 10
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May 29, 2026
Public Works Director Donnie Pitt retires after 25 years of service to Isle of Palms By Joshua Uys The city is recognizing the career and contributions of Public Works Director Donnie Pitt, who is retiring after 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Isle of Palms. Pitt’s leadership has had a lasting impact on the community. As Mayor Phillip Pounds said during an April City Council meeting, “I don’t think I’ve ever heard as many praises and compliments for a public works group than I have under your leadership.” While Pitt’s departure marks the end of an era, city officials expressed confidence in the future of
the department under incoming Director Robert Asero. Both Pitt and Asero began their careers with the city in the Recreation Department, and Pitt played a key role in mentoring Asero along the way. Reflecting on that experience, Pitt said, “After observing Robert at the recreation department and watching him design and build the stormwater division, I knew he was the right choice.” City officials encouraged residents to join in thanking Pitt for his years of service and wishing him well in retirement. Those who would like to share a note of appreciation can email hello@isleofpalms.gov.
(Left to right) Gerald Johnson, Pat Brown, Tom Libhardt, Cindy Libhardt, Tim Taylor (co-founder and CEO TCVSN), Carol Truslow, Jennie Pierce. and Eddie Brown
Tim Taylor of Tri-County Veterans Service Network (TCVSN) and members of IOP VFW Post 3137 and the Americanism Committee from the IOP Exchange Club.
Patriot Housing Project Celebrates Ribbon Cutting in Fight Against Veteran Homelessness By Vicki Johnson On April 10, community leaders, veterans and supporters gathered to celebrate a significant milestone in the fight against veteran homelessness: the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Patriot Housing Project (PHP). The event marked not just the opening of a model home, but also the expansion of a mission dedicated to providing safe, stable housing solutions for veterans in need. The Patriot Housing Project, an initiative of the Tri-County Veterans Support Network (TCVSN), represents an innovative approach to addressing housing insecurity among veterans. Designed as a scalable and transportable solution, the PHP model home — repurposed from retired shipping containers — showcases how thoughtful design, community partnerships and strategic outreach can come together to create lasting impact. A highlight of the event was the strong showing of support from local organizations deeply committed to service and patriotism. Members of IOP VFW Post 3137 and its Auxiliary played
a meaningful role in the celebration. They were joined by comrades and Auxiliary members from other local Veterans of Foreign Wars posts throughout the Lowcountry, demonstrating the widespread commitment within the veteran community to support one another. The collective presence underscored a shared mission to ensure no veteran is left behind and reflected the longstanding tradition of service and advocacy carried out by VFW members across the region. In addition, the IOP Exchange Club Americanism Committee lent its support to the event, reinforcing the importance of community-driven efforts rooted in patriotism and civic responsibility. The committee has supported TCVSN and other organizations for many years through generous sponsors and individuals participating in its Flags for Heroes program, helping sustain and grow programs that directly impact veterans in the Charleston community. Its continued investment highlights the power of local partnerships in advancing initiatives that honor and serve those who have worn the uniform.
Attendees had the opportunity to tour the model home, learn more about the program’s vision and hear from leaders about plans to expand the initiative beyond Charleston. With the pilot program underway, the Patriot Housing Project aims to grow regionally and eventually scale nationwide, addressing a critical issue affecting veterans across the country. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was more than a symbolic gesture — it was a call to action. It served as a reminder that solving veteran homelessness requires collaboration, compassion and continued investment from the community. As the Patriot Housing Project moves forward, support from local residents, organizations and businesses will remain vital to its success. Together, the collective effort brings hope, dignity and a path forward for veterans in need — one home at a time. To learn more about how to get involved and support veterans in the community, email Vicki Johnson at vicki@patriothousingproject.org.