Pressure Washing in Daniel Island, SC

Often our eyes are the first thing people notice. To care for our delicate eye area, in December 2023, Dr. Rakesh M. Patel, board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, opened Charleston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery.

The office specializes in rejuvenation of the eyes and surrounding structures.

Dr. Patel received his bachelor’s at Duke University, then attended medical school at Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. After graduating, he completed a one-year internship in Brooklyn followed by a three-year residency program in the Bronx.

Once he completed his residency he did a two-year subspecialty training in eyelid plastic surgery. Dr. Patel worked in Columbia, S.C. for nearly 10 years before opening his practice in the Lowcountry.

He is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), one of only 750 surgeons worldwide. Dr. Patel says he strives for natural results to give patients a more youthful version of themselves.

“Many patients complain of their eyes looking tired when they truly feel great inside. At Charleston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, our goal is to help you achieve a natural, refreshed aesthetic taking years off your appearance without looking overdone. In addition to cosmetic treatments, we also treat various functional problems of the eyelids, tear ducts, and orbit.”

Often people think oculofacial surgery is risky. With all surgeries there can be potential risks, but Charleston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery prioritizes safety with their skill to deliver life-changing results for functional or aesthetic concerns.

Dr. Patel says Charleston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery was designed to be a relaxed setting where patients can freely discuss their concerns and desired outcomes. He believes this helps develop a customized treatment plan to achieve the client’s goals.

“From the initial consultation forward, we promise to ensure you understand the potential causes of your condition, the various treatment options available both surgical and nonsurgical, the recommended treatment, and what to expect after treatment. At Charleston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, we believe in the patient and the provider working together as a team to achieve your desired result.”

When it comes to plastic surgery procedures, many patients prefer to stay anonymous. Dr. Patel is very protective of patients’ privacy. But a quick internet search of their website (g.co/kgs/dXxvFJm) and social media pages gives interested patients a snapshot of satisfied surgery clients.

Dr. Patel is excited to work in the Lowcountry, especially with Daniel Island residents. During his time in Columbia, he often visited his brother, Dr. Shailesh Patel, and sister-in-law, Mosmi Naik-Patel, owner of Lifestory Events and Interiors on Daniel Island. He fell in love with the friendly neighborhood vibe of Daniel Island and “the beauty of the idyllic oasis.” Dr. Patel also spent time on Daniel Island during his time at MUSC.

For more information, go to charleston oculofacial.com.

If there are any local merchants you’d like to see featured in an upcoming column send an email to marie@thedanielislandnews.com.

The S.C. State Ports Authority and Berkeley County have finalized a Daniel Island land deal that will result in a nearly 115-acre waterfront park to be developed as the first project in a greenbelt preservation program.

The $4 million sale has been in the works for about a year and was finalized June 28, when the SPA sold the nine parcels along the Cooper River, according to property records.

The county will fund the purchase with money from the S.C. Conservation Bank, the Daniel Island Community Fund and a local sales tax that voters approved in 2022 for road improvements and land preservation.

The North Island Tract is between the Cooper and the end of Seven Farms Drive, which could be extended onto the property to provide public access to the future park. The SPA, which owns and operates the Port of Charleston, has not said what it thinks the undeveloped property is worth, but the purchase price is about one-tenth of its taxable value.

Berkeley County Council and the SPA's board of directors approved the purchase agreement in June 2023.

"This was the result of a good relationship between the port, the county and the Daniel Island Community Fund," said Councilman Josh Whitley, whose district includes Daniel Island. "It’s rare that 'big ideas' get enacted, and even more rare that they do as expeditiously as this one has come to fruition."

Whitley, who has said he will not run for reelection when his term ends this year, said the greenbelt program "will impact generations" and having the North Island Tract as "the first-ever project in the initiative is one of a handful of items I will look back on with great pride."

The county has not announced definitive plans for the site, but among the suggestions from Daniel Island residents has been development of walking trails, boardwalks over the wetlands and a pier. It is accepting comments on the park plans and other preservation initiatives at its greenbelt website.

A legal dispute between a Turkish battery firm and the consulting group that helped bring the company to the Lowcountry is headed to mediation this week even as both sides are fighting over which court will hear the case.

Istanbul-headquartered Kontrolmatik Technologies and its Pomega Energy Storage subsidiary filed a lawsuit in April against Jones Lang LaSalle Americas claiming the Chicago-based real estate and site-selection group known as JLL wants $5 million as its share of more than $127 million in taxpayer-funded incentives tied to the development of a 600-worker factory near Walterboro.

South Carolina — where Kontrolmatik filed its lawsuit — forbids industries from paying consulting fees to third parties for helping to arrange incentives like the property tax breaks, income tax credits, sales tax exemptions and infrastructure grant the battery firm received. Kontrolmatik wants a judge to rule that JLL is not entitled to the $5 million fee.

JLL wants the case moved to Illinois, which doesn't have a prohibition against such fees. JLL said its contract with Kontrolmatik allows the consultant to pick the venue if a legal dispute arises.

JLL said it doesn't comment on pending legal matters, but the firm told the court that most of its witnesses and documents are in Illinois and it "would be substantially inconvenient" if the case remains in South Carolina.

A decision on where the lawsuit will be heard is pending.

Meanwhile, both sides have agreed to put the case on hold as they enter mediation talks starting Aug. 23 to "potentially resolve the issues," according to a court filing.

Kontrolmatik hired JLL about two years ago to help find a site for its first U.S.-based lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant. The real estate firm ultimately led the company to Colleton Industrial Campus off Interstate 95, the lawsuit stated.

When it comes to hurricanes, Thomas Hunt has seen the brunt of it. The Clements Ferry resident had just moved to Charleston when Hurricane Hugo hit, a harsh welcome to the Lowcountry.

His best advice for storm preparation is “never underestimate the power of a storm. Secure your home and get the hell out of dodge if you can. If you can’t, gather everything you could possibly need. It’s better to be over prepared than caught off guard.”

The 2024 hurricane season officially began on June 1. As of now, no tropical cyclones or depressions are active or forming in the Atlantic Ocean, but the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted above-normal hurricane activity for this year. It’s time to start preparing.

2024 Hurricane season forecast

NOAA predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season, and a 5% chance of a below-normal season. Specifically, NOAA forecasts between 17 to 25 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher,) with eight to 13 of those becoming hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher).

Of those, four to seven could become major hurricanes (categories 3, 4, or 5 with winds of 111 mph or higher).

“This is the highest number of storms ever predicted by the NOAA Climate Prediction Center,” said Shea Gibson, tropics meteorologist at WeatherFlow-Tempest.

A recent Colorado State University forecast estimated there will be 23 named storms this season. Contributing factors include unusually warm Atlantic Ocean temperatures this early in the year, and the erosion of El Nino and the development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, which reduce wind shear and favor storm formation.

South Carolina is no stranger to hurricanes. According to the South Carolina Hurricanes Comprehensive Summary compiled by the Department of Natural Resources, the state has an 86% chance of being impacted by a tropical system each year. Zoom in on the Lowcountry, and you have a recipe for intense flooding.

“For Daniel Island, a powerful storm with persistent long term heavy rains and a storm surge of over 10 feet could cause life-threatening flooding,” Gibson said. “Flooding is the No. 1 killer with tropical systems. Add significant damaging winds from a category three or higher, and it could easily turn into a catastrophic event like we saw with Hurricane Hugo.”

Prepare your home

Gibson stressed the importance of early preparation. “Waiting until the last minute can be extremely stressful, as stores tend to run out of supplies very quickly.”

He recommends having a well-thought-out hurricane kit with emergency supplies such as first aid kits, batteries, flashlights, water, and non-perishable food items.

Additionally, he said to ensure that insurance coverage is current. Local, state, and federal emergency agencies emphasize the importance of reviewing and updating insurance policies for homes, autos, and boats. Standard policies do not cover flood damage, so separate flood insurance must be purchased.

Chris Hamil, operations manager at the Daniel Island Property Owners’ Association, offered advice for homeowners.

“Be prepared,” he said. “Don’t take any weather event for granted. Have a plan and a backup plan.”

The DIPOA has protocols, including annual inspections of stormwater retention ponds and tree pruning to minimize damage during storms.

Beyond updating insurance, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division suggests several steps to prepare your home:

● Roof inspection: Ensure your roof is in good condition and make any necessary repairs.

● Window inspection: Check seals around windows and consider installing hurricane shutters.

● Garage door: Inspect the seals around your garage door and make repairs if needed.

● Yard maintenance: Bring in loose items such as trampolines and patio furniture before a storm hits.

Be ready to evacuate

SCEMD advises residents to know their evacuation zone, personalize their plan, prepare their home, and remember their route.

Daniel Island and Cainhoy residents live in the Central Coast Region, Zone B. In the event of an evacuation, residents are directed to use I-526 to I-26 or Clements Ferry Road to SC Hwy. 41 to SC Hwy. 402, then to US 52 to SC Hwy. 375, then to US 521, to SC Hwy. 261 to US 378 to Columbia.

They recommend you make sure other people know your plan well ahead of time, and share it with others, adding fuel up the car before you go.

SCEMD also suggests having multiple ways to receive emergency information, including wireless emergency alerts, NOAA weather radios, and local broadcasts. Prepare a basic disaster supply kit and make arrangements for pets, ensuring you have a pet-friendly place to stay if you need to evacuate.

Hurricane season can be unpredictable, but being prepared can make all the difference.

“It’s not a matter of if, it’s when. It only takes one storm to change your perspective,” Gibson said.

For comprehensive guides and resources, visit the SCEMD Hurricane Guide at hurricane.sc and the Berkeley County Hurricane Guide at berkeleycountysc.gov.

Here are the developments before the various City of Charleston boards and committees this week, as well as results, if any, from the prior week’s items specific to Daniel Island and the Cainhoy area.

More detailed agendas and results can be found at charleston-sc.gov/agendacenter.

UPCOMING: PLANNING COMMISSION

June 20: Sportsman Island Drive - Request subdivision of six townhome lots on .58 acres. Zoned General Business (GB). TMS 2710002064. Council District 1. Owner: Benjamin Stein. Applicant: Barrier Island Engineering & Consulting.

RESULTS: TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

June 13: Point Hope Pod 4 - Ph 1 - Proposed preliminary plat for 123 single-family residences on 119.1 acres at 1236 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: Pulte Home Company LLC. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Zoning: PUD. Contact: Brian Riley, riley.b@tandh.com. Results: Revise and return.

June 13: Primus Park Concept Plan - Proposed conceptual plan for roads and utilities to serve future single-family residential development consisting of 102 lots on 108 acres at 500 Verdant Way. TMS: B2680000181. Owner: McAlister Togant Clements LLC. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Zoning: Light Industrial. Contact: David Williams, williams.david@tandh.com. Results: Revise and return.

June 13: Restore At Point Hope Phase 3 - Site plan for proposed development containing 228 single-family attached units on 20.16 acres at 1236 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: The Berry Company. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Zoning: PUD Contact: Domonic Jones, jones.d@tandh.com. Results: Revise and return.

June 13: Tuxbury Farm Subdivision - Preliminary plat and road construction plans for proposed 83 lot mixed-use development on 15.1 acres at 2682 SC Highway 41. TMS: B2630004042. Owner: Toll Brothers. Applicant: Toll Brothers. Zoning: Single-Family Residential/Diverse Residential. Contact: Mark MacFarland, mmacfarland@tollbrothers.com. Results: Revise and return.

June 13: 211 Seven Farms Drive Mixed-Use - Site plan for proposed 3-story mixed use building on .34 acres at 211 Seven Farms Drive. TMS: B2750000196. Owner: SLS Development LLC. Applicant: C Baker Engineering, LLC. Zoning: Daniel Island Town Center Contact: Bret Jarotski, bret@cbakerengineering.com. Results: Revise and return.

June 13: Alliance Apartments - Ph. 1 - Site plan for proposed 336 multifamily development with supporting amenities and infrastructure on 23.9 acres at 1730 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: Seven Sticks LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Zoning: PUD Contact: Hannah Wilken, hwilken@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Revise and return.

Berkeley County schools to follow restriction policies

Students across South Carolina are expected to face a cellphone ban in public schools, a result of a new proviso included in this year’s state budget.

The state Board of Education aims to officially approve the restrictions in September, with full statewide adoption expected by January 2025.

The proviso, enacted as part of the FY 2024-25 Appropriations Act, mandates that the state Board of Education will “prohibit access to personal electronic communication devices by students during the school day. For purposes of this provision, a personal electronic communication device is considered to be a device not authorized for classroom use by a student, utilized to access the Internet, Wi-Fi, or cellular telephone signals.”

The primary goal of the ban is to address discipline and mental health issues linked to cellphone use, as outlined in a memo from the SBE. The memo reports that 92% of teachers surveyed supported restrictions on cell phone access due to concerns over distractions and lost instructional time.

“Ultimately, this is the most practical step we can take to refocus student learning, address those discipline issues, hopefully improve mental health outcomes, and support our teachers,” said Jason Raven, spokesperson for the Department of Education.

The Department of Education crafted a policy for the State Board to consider, which the board gave initial approval to on Aug. 13. It would restrict all K-12 students from using any “personal electronic devices,” including cellphones, smartwatches, tablets, and gaming devices during school hours, unless the district superintendent grants approval for specific uses.

The “school day” is bell to bell – from a student’s arrival at school until afternoon dismissal. Under this policy, students would be required to store their devices in lockers, backpacks, or designated areas determined by the district. The policy would allow districts flexibility in deciding whether these rules apply to time spent on school buses, during field trips, or at athletic events.

Exceptions would be made for students with Individualized Education Plans or medical plans that require the use of such devices.

Districts around the state can opt to implement the policy, but if they choose to stray from it, the Department of Education said it can’t be any less strict than the state’s.

“It sets the floor and not the ceiling,” Deputy State Superintendent Matthew Ferguson said at the Aug. 13 meeting. “And so, it is what is consistent across the state – each district is going to be able to build upon that and add its local nuance and flavor.”

Districts like BCSD are already planning to adopt the new policy. Katie Tanner, BCSD chief communications and engagement officer, said, “We will align our practices with the new regulations. This move aims to minimize distractions and enhance the learning environment.”

As the state board finalizes the new policy in September, Philip Simmons High School Principal Christopher Buchholz pointed out the BCSD’s current phone policies.

“As a general rule, students should not be using their phones unless directed by a teacher for a specific purpose,” Buchholz said. “Overall, we do not have many issues with phones during instruction and students typically follow teacher directives. That being said, for some students, phones are a major roadblock to engagement in the classroom.”

Before the proviso, Daniel Island School Principal Laura Blanchard considered Yondr pouches for students’ phones, which locks electronically and prevents users from accessing phones during class time, but it was too pricey to implement.

“It’s important to note that pouches start at $25 to $30 per pouch,” Blanchard said. “To outfit just our school with the pouches, it would be upwards of $18,000.”

Bishop England High School, separate from BCSD, has implemented its own cellphone policy for years. Students must turn their phones off or on silent before entering the school in the morning, and they are only allowed out at the conclusion of the school day at 2:50 p.m.

“Our experience has been that parents appreciate the ‘no phone’ policy,” Tucker said.

“We feel strongly that students spend enough time staring at screens. School time needs to be spent actively engaging with others– either in academic or social pursuits.”

The cellphone ban has elicited mixed reactions from parents and teachers.

Ophelia Huff, a Clements Ferry resident, strongly supports the ban. “Phones should not be in classrooms at all. If I got through school without a phone, they can too. If there’s any emergency, parents can get in touch with the school.”

Kelly Martin, a Daniel Island parent and former teacher, said, “Taking away the cellphones is only putting a Band-Aid on the issue. I think a more proactive approach should be taken with bringing awareness to parents and students to prevent technology and cellphone addiction.”

Linda Vaughan, a Daniel Island resident and former teacher evaluator, proposed a middle ground. “Perhaps phones could be stored at the front of the classroom, or schools could require each student to turn off the phone and leave it on the corner of the desk in full view of the teacher.”

As schools work toward meeting the department’s goal of statewide implementation by January, BCSD’s school board will have the fall to decide which rules they want to enact.

Editor’s note: To see what other readers have to say about phones in school, see the results of the recent Reader Survey online at bit.ly/3WOOWIr.