Nondenominational Church in Daniel Island, SC

When making significant changes in your life, it's inevitable that both joys and challenges will arise. While it can be thrilling to embark on new adventures, such as starting a new job or moving to a new city, there may also be moments of isolation and regret. These moments can leave you feeling lonely and even depressed, especially when you have a lack of interpersonal communication or physical contact.

If you're like us, it's hard to imagine life without heartfelt hugs from family or deep conversations with your best friends. Unfortunately, moving to a new city or state may mean giving up those luxuries for a while. So, what should your next steps be? For many people, one of the first tasks to accomplish is finding a new place to meet people. But that's easier said than done, especially when you're trying to impress at a new job or feel like you don't belong in a new city like Mount Pleasant. You may be asking yourself questions like:

Will locals accept me?
Will I stick out like a sore thumb since I'm from a different state with a different accent?
Is it even worth trying to go out when I don't know anybody?
Is it normal to feel alone or even have feelings of depression now that I'm in a new city?
Where can I go to meet new people where I won't be judged or cast aside?

If you're struggling to hit the ground running now that you're living in the Lowcountry, know that you're not alone. At Pavilion North Church, we know the challenges and fears you're facing. We see them every day. But there's Good News to celebrate: By putting your faith in God, you can rediscover the power of trust, patience, strength, and faith. And that's incredibly important, especially if you feel like life is pointless right now. Whether you're looking to worship at a new nondenominational church in Daniel Island, SC, or you simply need a warm, welcoming place to meet new people without judgment, Pavilion North is here to help.

Service Areas

Here at Pavilion North, we strive to be a place where the saving grace of Jesus Christ transforms lives. We do this by helping people grow in their relationship with God, achieve freedom, and fulfill their purpose in serving others. If you're new to the metro Daniel Island area, feel lonely in our city, or are looking for a friendly, fulfilling place to worship, our doors are open to you, no matter your background or beliefs.

(843) 823-2081

When you boil it down to the basics, we believe that God established our nondenominational church in Daniel Island, SC, to be a place of refuge and salvation. In scripture, the word Pavilion is defined as a place where the presence of God dwells. In His presence, we can be transformed and find everything we need to live the abundant life Jesus came to give us. If you're thinking to yourself, "Sure, that sounds great, but I've never been religious and have never been to church," know that you and every person are welcome at Pavilion North. Our prayer is that every person that enters through our doors can experience the grace, power, and love of Jesus Christ in a new way.

We help spread that message by leaning on our values, which include:

Love

The greatest commandment is to Love God & Love People (Mark 12:30,31)

Prayer

My house shall be called a house of Prayer. (Luke 19:46)

Grace

We are saved by grace through faith. (Ephesians 2:8)

Faith

Faith is confidence in what we hope for. (Hebrews 11:1)

One feature that sets us apart from other churches in Daniel Island is the fact that we are nondenominational. If you're used to denominations like Baptists and Methodists or are unfamiliar with denominations in general, this phrase might be new to you. Let's dive a little deeper into what our nondenominational status means.

What is a Nondenominational Church in Daniel Island, SC?

Nondenominational churches are Christian churches that choose not to hold a connection to recognized denominations such as Lutheran, Presbyterian, Catholic, etc. Nondenominational churches do not follow the directives of larger denominational organizations and make their own decisions on various parts of church life. They emerged during the latter half of the 20th century, primarily in the United States, out of a desire for independence and a return to the biblical basics of Christianity. The reasons for their establishment vary, but many founders sought to separate themselves from the doctrinal and sometimes political affiliations of long-established denominational churches.

What are the Beliefs of Nondenominational Christians?

First things first: Every nondenominational church and church body will have a slightly different answer to this question. Generally speaking, however, nondenominational Christians believe that the Bible should be the ultimate authority when it comes to teaching, worship, and other aspects of church life.

Unlike denominational churches, nondenominational churches do not follow the exact beliefs set out by a larger organization. Instead, they rely on scripture to guide their beliefs and practices. Nondenominational churches are often led by members of the church congregation, reflecting a belief that a church is a community of believers rather than a hierarchy. They believe that doctrines formulated through interpretation and annotation of the scriptures are not necessary and can sometimes distract from God's word.

If you're interested in attending our nondenominational church in Daniel Island, SC, and are curious about what makes us different from other, more traditional churches, it would be our pleasure to sit with you and discuss our statement of beliefs. Simply visit our website or contact our office today to learn more.

Dealing with Loneliness in a New City

When it comes to loneliness, there are both good and bad ways of coping. Some folks choose to become workaholics, spending every waking hour dedicated to work, work, work. This self-defeating choice often results in waking up before the sun, working all day, and going to bed completely exhausted. While good for financial reasons, this method results in emotional and physical burnout.

Others focus on material items - they buy everything they can get their hands on because they mistakenly believe that more "things" will make them happy. Unfortunately, "things" do nothing to satisfy your desire for human connection and less loneliness. Would your "things" make you feel happy on an island where there's no human contact?

Others cheat on their partners, experiment with drugs and alcohol, or pitch pity parties for themselves, all to no avail. So what is the solution if you've been feeling lonely since moving to Mount Pleasant, SC? All we have to do is look to the Bible - and specifically Paul - for answers. In the Bible, Paul must confront loneliness head-on, and he does so in ways that are very applicable to modern situations like yours.

Use Your Time Positively

If you're feeling lonely, it's important to stay productive and make the most of your time. Don't allow loneliness to immobilize you. Instead, find a way to make the best of the situation. Remember the saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Do whatever it takes to combat loneliness. Take a cue from Paul, who didn't allow himself to wallow in self-pity.

Despite being in prison, he asked for his coat and books so he could stay warm and use the time for writing and studing. This was a significant shift for Paul, who was an active church planter. Although he would have preferred to be preaching in the Colosseum, he recognized that God could use his loneliness for good. It's essential to take care of yourself when you're lonely, so don't neglect your personal needs. With the right mindset and approach, you can turn a negative situation into a positive one.

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Know That God is Present

When dealing with loneliness, recognizing God's presence is a helpful approach. According to Paul, God provided him with strength and was with him always. Jesus also reassured his followers that they would never be alone. God himself promised to never leave nor forsake us.

David, who experienced loneliness himself, found comfort in his fellowship with God. He recognized that loneliness was an opportunity to grow closer to God. Instead of giving in to the temptation to do nothing, as Paul did, we should focus on making our time count by spending it in fellowship with God.

Remember, you can supplement your relationship with God and help combat loneliness by worshiping with others. If you're new to Mount Pleasant, our nondenominational church in Daniel Island, SC, will welcome you with open arms and with a heart full of joy. Simply being in the presence of positive, faithful people can have a huge impact on your mental health, regardless of how active or aloof you wish to be in church functions.

Be Empathetic

One effective way to cope with loneliness is by showing empathy toward the needs of others. Instead of being self-centered, shift your focus towards those around you who may also be feeling lonely. Consider reaching out and helping them in any way you can.

A great example of this is Paul, who dedicated his life to serving others and spreading the word of God. Despite facing loneliness towards the end of his life, he remained committed to his goal of helping people in need. As he once said, "The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it." (2 Timothy 4:17)

How to Find Happiness When You Feel Hopeless

At Pavilion North, we worship with many people who question the purpose of their existence and whether their actions hold any significance. With all the trials and tribulations in modern times, it's easy to forget that God designed a plan for us to experience growth and joy - to live by faith and, ultimately, to return to His presence. Despite the plan God has for them, many Americans feel less happy than ever - only 14% of people felt "very happy" in 2020, according to the University of Chicago.

Whether you're religious or not, if you're struggling to find meaning in your life, keep these tips in mind to help you find happiness.

Think of Life as Your Personal Journey

Life is often compared to a journey, and while it may sound clichÃ©, this perspective can actually give us a sense of purpose in our everyday lives. A prime example is Mike Signorelli, who was once an atheist but later discovered religion and became the founding pastor of V1 Church, a thriving congregation in the New York City region. However, you don't have to undergo a religious conversion to experience a similar awakening. Simply shifting your mindset and approach to the world can lead to a meaningful journey of self-discovery.

Give Yourself a Small Weekly Goal

Set a small goal for yourself every week. It could be something as easy as 15 minutes of self-reflection or promising that you will visit a nondenominational church in Daniel Island, SC. No matter what goal you choose, continue to set them and acknowledge each accomplishment as a victory.

Try Extracurricular Activities Where You Live

Whether it's a professional group, a Sunday school meetup outside church, a Bible study book club, or a neighborhood association, getting involved and meeting new people can add value to your life and create lasting connections. It doesn't matter what form it takes - the important thing is to build relationships and be an active member.

Emulate Those Who Inspire You

Find inspiration from mentors, famous individuals who you admire, or even an exceptional parent that you've noticed in a new neighborhood you live in. Observe the world from their perspective, absorb their experiences, and expand your self-awareness. At Pavilion North, we strive to emulate Jesus Christ and, through Him, positively affect others who may feel down, out, or like their life has no meaning.

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Discover the Pavilion North Difference

Looking for a church that brings people from diverse backgrounds together? Are you feeling lonely and need the compassion and support from fellow Christians? Do you feel lost on your journey in life and need help finding a new direction? A nondenominational church in Daniel Island, SC, may be for you. Without any denominational affiliation, you can worship and connect with others based solely on your love for Jesus. Nondenominational churches often have a strong sense of community involvement, making for a unique worship experience, and that's no different at Pavilion North in Mount Pleasant, SC.

Our church is proud to be multicultural, multi-generational, and open to worshiping with people from any and all denominational backgrounds, cultures, and nations. God does indeed work in mysterious ways - and if you're reading this sentence, this could be a sign that His plan for you is working. Contact us today to take the next step in your life toward happiness and fulfillment through fellowship and Christ.

(843) 823-2081

Popular Charleston eatery bringing smashburgers and more to Daniel Island this summer

DANIEL ISLAND — When John and Brenda Haire first moved to South Carolina in 2009, they lived on Daniel Island. Fifteen years later, the couple will open a restaurant in this part of Charleston, one of the fastest growing in the area.Taking over the space that for the last 22 years housed ...

Taking over the space that for the last 22 years housed Laura Alberts Tasteful Options, Heavy’s Barburger will open this summer, John Haire told The Post and Courier. The Haires finalized the purchase of the building at 891 Island Park Drive just three days after Laura Alberts permanently closed on March 15.

“Our friend base is still centered here on Daniel Island,” John Haire said. “I think it’s ready for something like us.”

Heavy’s original location opened in 2022 in the 1137 Morrison Drive space previously occupied by The Tattooed Moose. It’s named after John Haire’s grandfather, who was fondly referred to as "Heavy" by family members and friends in his hometown in Florida.

Heavy’s menu features chicken wings, a chili dog, crinkle-cut french fries and the restaurant’s namesake burger featuring two smashed patties, American cheese, sliced tomato, red onion, lettuce, pickles and “Heavy’s sauce.” The Daniel Island menu will mirror that of the original with a few new additions, Haire said.

Housed in the heart of Daniel Island, the new Heavy’s will provide guests with the same design elements as the original, Haire said, including family-style seating and booths, a vintage sound system and a lively atmosphere. Community-style tables will be part of the new dining room and patio, Haire said.

The couple eventually plans to use the building’s 50-seat second story for private events.

“I really love the simplicity of what we did (downtown). I think we can do a lot of that here,” Haire said. “We’re going to replicate a lot of what our guests are accustomed to seeing here.”

To date, the downtown Charleston Heavy’s location has donated over $10,000 to nonprofit organizations through its Pass the Hat program. Already involved in Daniel Island youth sports and school fundraisers, the Haires hope to contribute to similar programs in their new neighborhood, Haire said.

Heavy’s Barburger’s Daniel Island restaurant is a second location, not a relocation, he said. They plan to keep their downtown location — next to the long-planned wedge-shaped Thompson by Hyatt hotel, where Morrison Drive and Meeting Street converge — open for the foreseeable future.

The downtown restaurant has seven years left on its lease.

NORTH CHARLESTON — Bottles of water were placed on eight folding tables outside Baba Kabob Market and Deli on March 11 before the first Iftar of Ramadan. Just a few seats were occupied as the clock reached 7 p.m., 25 minutes before sunset.

One by one, cars started filing into the North Charleston parking lot, where four of the tables had taken over the front-row spaces. One of them was occupied by the Mohieldin family, whose water bottles remained sealed shut as each of the six fought the urge to drink or eat for just a few more minutes.

Like the owners of this 3-year-old restaurant, Ayman Mekky Mohieldin hails from Egypt. He met his wife, Jamie Mohieldin, at a restaurant in Hershey, Pa., where she was a server and he was a chef.

When he was in third grade, like his young daughter is now, Mohieldin would break the daily Ramadan fast in the evening at his family’s home. He recalls how different Ramadan was in Egypt, where the entire country aided in the 30-day fasting push with schools starting late and daily celebrations drumming up excitement.

Here in Charleston, daily life goes on as usual during Ramadan. Mohieldin and his wife continue to work long days on their food truck, The Pita Stroller, surrounding themselves in lamb gyros and french fries served with tzatziki while they stamp down fits of hunger.

Rather than doing so begrudgingly, they cherish this time of year when adherents of Islam commemorate the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad.

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For this family and other Muslims in Charleston, Ramadan is a time of peace, charity, community, reflection and family. Though each day passes by without it, food is still at the center of this annual holy month in the Islamic faith.

‘Support those who are hungry’

Kamal Mohammed brings a small clear plastic container with an orange top to the Central Mosque of Charleston, where worshipers hail from about 35 countries. Raised in Sudan, he offers us a bite of saucy lamb, tender with a rush of back-of-the-tongue heat.

Mohammed, who came to the U.S. in 1996, butchers the lamb himself. For the last 17 years, he’s brought Sudanese dishes like this and mullah tagalia with fufu to the Upper King Street mosque to share with fellow worshippers.

The ninth month of the Islamic calendar that follows the lunar cycle, Ramadan’s forthcoming start brought about 100 people, including Mohammed, to the Central Mosque of Charleston on March 8.

Attendees of the Friday jum’ah service bent in prayer just after 1:30 p.m. With white fans whirring from the ceiling above, the Imam started his sermon about 10 minutes into the 45-minute prayer, discussing the pillars of Ramadan. He spoke of halal, a word some know only from its association with meat that adheres to Islamic law.

Halal has a much deeper meaning for those of the Islamic faith, the Imam said. The Quranic term denoting what is permitted and allowed by Allah, halal guides Muslims in their daily lives, he told us after the service.

During Ramadan, halal leads Muslims to fast from sunrise to sundown for 30 days straight.

Everyone has their own Ramadan traditions, said Imad Musallam, a Palestinian member of the Central Mosque of Charleston. The fast is traditionally broken with dates and water, followed by a meal nourishing enough to sustain them for the whole day.

“From these hours, doesn’t matter how many hours, nothing comes in the mouth,” Musallam said. “No food, no water, not even chewing gum.”

During Ramadan, the mosque dedicates each of the four Saturdays to a different type of cuisine, with Sudanese, Pakistani and Arab food represented in various weeks this year. The meals take place in the evening after sundown, a ceremonial feast called Iftar. The early morning breakfast before sunrise is called Suhur.

Construction begins on Daniel Island townhome community

Listen to this articleConstruction is underway on a build-to-rent luxury townhome community on 5.5 acres in Nowell Creek Village.Holder Properties announces a partnership with East West Partners and SilverCap Partners to develop a purpose-built rental townhome community on 5.5 acres in Nowell Creek Village. The marsh-front community will feature premier amenities and three and four-bedroom units with attached garages.Holder Properties said in a news release that it has partnered wit...

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Construction is underway on a build-to-rent luxury townhome community on 5.5 acres in Nowell Creek Village.

Holder Properties announces a partnership with East West Partners and SilverCap Partners to develop a purpose-built rental townhome community on 5.5 acres in Nowell Creek Village. The marsh-front community will feature premier amenities and three and four-bedroom units with attached garages.

Holder Properties said in a news release that it has partnered with East West Partners to develop the project. SilverCap Partners provided majority equity for the project, with construction financing provided by Georgia Banking Co. Patterson Real Estate Advisory Group led the capital raise and debt placement process, the release stated.

The project is the latest phase of Holder’s broader development plans at Nowell Creek Village on Daniel Island. Holder Properties purchased the 36-acre site between Nowell Creek and Beresford Creek in 2019 and set out to create a mixed-use community surrounded by the natural environment.

The waterfront community is currently home to Marshside, a Class A office building owned and managed by Holder, as well as a 320-unit multifamily project under construction by Middle Street Partners. Boutique retail, as well as a community park and dock, are in the planning and permitting phases, the release stated.

“We’ve owned this land for nearly five years and have been intentional about its purpose and our partners,” Will Menkes, president of Holder Properties, said in the release. “Limited residential inventory, coupled with high demand to live on Daniel Island, has created a strong need for purposefully built rental homes that provide access to the island’s great schools and amenities. The ability to move this project forward in today’s challenging macroeconomic environment speaks volumes about the merits of this project and the team assembled to bring it to life.”

East West Partners is a luxury developer “devoted to supporting high-quality real estate and lifestyle experiences.” On Daniel Island, they also developed The Waterfront, a luxury 22-acre community featuring residences, retail and community amenities.

“This new townhome community within Nowell Creek Village represents an incredible opportunity for East West Partners to expand our portfolio into the build-to-rent market and continue addressing the demand for luxury residences on Daniel Island,” East West Partners Managing Partner Miller Harper said in the release. “With interest in the lifestyle that Daniel Island affords at an all-time high, we are excited to bring to market a project that aligns with our values of offering high-quality real estate with a focus on community.”

The first units are expected to be ready in spring 2025, the release said.

Clements Ferry projects move through TRC

This week there are several developments coming before the various City of Charleston boards and committees. Below are those items 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: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEEJan. 18: TOWNE AT COOPER RIVER PHASE II (ROAD AND INFRASTRUCTURE) – Three items: Development plan and road improvement to Enterprise ...

UPCOMING: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Jan. 18: TOWNE AT COOPER RIVER PHASE II (ROAD AND INFRASTRUCTURE) – Three items: Development plan and road improvement to Enterprise Blvd., Beresford Run, and Clements Ferry Rd. and preliminary plat for infrastructure to serve Towne at Cooper River Master Development on 30 acres at 2620 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2710001035. Owner: Cato Holdings LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Spencer Plowden, splowden@seamonwhiteside.com

Jan 18: WOODFIELD COOPER RIVER FARMS 2 – Site plan for a 71-unit multifamily development on 2.7 acres at 700 Silo Acres Dr. TMS: B2710001035. Owner: Woodfield Acquistions LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Malcolm Glenn, mglenn@seamonwhi teside.com.

Jan 18: #7. WOODFIELD POINT HOPE 3 MIXED USE – Site plan for 336 multifamily units, 12 townhome units, 18,000 sf. of retail buildings and 4,000 sf leasing office on 44.6 acres at 1000 Waterline St. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: Thomas Webster, Woodfield Development. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Malcolm Glenn, mglenn@seamon whiteside.com.

RESULTS: CITY OF CHARLESTON TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE

Jan. 11: Tuxbury Farm Tract (4th review) – Concept plan for 83 mixed-use lots at 2682 Hwy 41 & 698 Tuxbury Farm Road for 58 townhomes and 25 single-family lots on 15.10 acres. TMS: 2630004006. Owner: Tuxbury Equestrian Center. Applicant: Toll Brothers. Contact: Mark Fields, mfields1@tollbrothers.com. Results: Open pending delivery of Stormwater comments.

Jan. 11: Cainhoy Del Webb Phase 2 (4th review) – Preliminary plat and road construction plans for 233 single-family residences on 129.9 acres in Cainhoy. TMS: B2620000028. Owner: Pulte Home Company. Applicant: Thomas & Hutton Engineering. Contact: Steven Roach, roach.s@tandh.com. Results: Open pending delivery of Stormwater comments.

Jan. 11: Foundation Place at Point Hope Phase 1(1st review) – Site plan for 8,487 sq. ft. commercial building on 4.35 acres at 846 Foundation St., Cainhoy. TMS: B26200000063. Owner: Vulcan Property Group. Applicant: Barrier Island SC, LLC. Contact: Andrew Bajoczky, andy@barrieris landng.com. Results: Revise and return.

Jan. 11: Daniel Island Drive Hotel (3rd review) - Site plan for 38-room hotel, event space, and hotel restaurant on 1.55 acres at 1996 Daniel Island Drive. TMS: B2750000080. Owner: JT Industries LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Malcolm Glenn, mglenn@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Revise and return.

Jan. 11: Kings Cross Church (pre-app) - Site plan for building addition with parking at 2011 Clements Ferry Road. TMS: B2680000120. Owner: Kings Cross Church. Applicant: Sitecast, LLC. Contact: Jacob Cordray, jcordray@sitecastsc.com. Results: Revise and return.

Jan. 11: MARSHES AT DANIEL ISLAND PHASE 2 (3rd review) - Preliminary plat and road construction plans 26 single-family lots on 4.9 acres at 146 UT Fairbanks Drive. TMS: B2710000010. Owner: Marla DeCriscio | Stanley Martin Homes, LLC. Applicant: Seamon, Whiteside & Associates, Inc. Contact: Zachary Wortman, zwortman@seamonwhiteside.com. Results: Revise and return.

RESULTS: CITY OF CHARLESTON DESIGN REVIEW BOARD

Jan. 16: 211 Seven Farms Dr. – Conceptual approval for a new three-story mixed-use building over parking at 211 Seven Farms. Dr. TMS: 301-00-00-805. Owner: SLS Development. Applicant: The Middleton Group. Results: Not available at press time.

REULTS: CITY OF CHARLESTON PLANNING COMMISION

Jan. 17: Tuxbury Farm Tract – Subdivision approval for 83 mixed-use lots at 2682 Hwy 41 & 698 Tuxbury Farm Rd for 58 townhomes and 25 single-family lots on 15.10 acres. TMS: 2630004006, 007, 042, 046 & 053. Owner: Rumph Auto Service, et al., J. Ray Waits, & Tuxbury Equestrian Center. Applicant: Toll Brothers. Results: Deferred.

Editorial: A promising park project takes shape in southern Berkeley County

The actions of no fewer than three arms of state and local governments seem to be jelling nicely to turn prime riverfront real estate on Daniel Island's western edge into an exciting new public space. It's still early, and success is not guaranteed, so all involved, particularly Berkeley County and the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, need to get the details right as they look to create what could be the region's premier riverfront park of the early 21st century.Last summer, Berkeley County Council voted to buy severa...

Last summer, Berkeley County Council voted to buy several parcels commonly known as North Island from the State Ports Authority, which has been looking to rid itself of landholdings that it no longer expects to need for port operations. The state agency acquired substantial tracts on Daniel Island two decades ago in an unsuccessful effort to build a new container terminal there, and it has moved slowly since to sell off that land.

County Council should finish its due diligence period and close on the property soon. The sale was made possible in part by Berkeley voters agreeing to a sales tax referendum that dedicated a small slice of funding for greenbelt projects, such as land conservation and parks. North Island would be the county's first greenbelt purchase using those funds, and it would come before the county actually has established a plan or an advisory board.

Even though the master plan has not been completed — which is not ideal — the purchase still looks like a wise strategic move, one that should help the county show voters that their money is being used effectively and efficiently on meaningful projects.

North Island offers a great location, between the terminus of Seven Farms Drive and the Cooper River, an area nearby residents have been advocating for a park for years. The site has no road access, but it could obtain that through an extension of Seven Farms. And this looks like a very good deal for taxpayers: The $4 million purchase price is about one-tenth of what the property is valued at for tax purposes.

Equally important, the county plans to pay only about half of the purchase price with its greenbelt money. The rest would come from a $1 million S.C. Conservation Bank contribution, and the county hopes to obtain another $1 million through grants, according to reporter David Wren. Such leveraging of the county's dollars is important and sets a solid precedent for future greenbelt deals, which also should attract outside money for conservation work.

The county's land deal is only a piece of what's going on here. Just to the south, the Ports Authority also has leased about 40 acres to the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism for public use. We urge this state and county to cooperate closely in the months to come. South of that potential park site, the Ports Authority also has worked since 2016 to create a saltwater wetlands mitigation bank; last month, it agreed to place 135 acres into a conservation easement with the Lord Berkeley Land Trust. Ultimately, those restored wetlands would complement any new park to the north.

Mark Messersmith, the SPA's environmental manager, told Mr. Wren that the three projects represent "a huge positive for the region," adding, "It's like 2½ miles of shoreline that would, in one form or another, be protected from large-scale development. ... It's almost unheard of to have that much protected land basically in an industrial part of a metropolitan area."

He's right. And while Berkeley looks to make a wise play on Daniel Island, it must ensure that, going forward, its new greenbelt program balances the interests across the county, from those in urbanizing areas such as Daniel Island, Hanahan and Goose Creek to those in rural areas that will need increased attention and protection, too.

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Daniel Island students use their voices to bring change to their school

DANIEL ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Berkeley County Council allocated $100,000 to Daniel Island School and it’s all thanks to a group of students advocating for their classmates.When eighth-grader Emily Hughes was elected as student council president, she knew she wanted to make a difference at her school. She said in years past, student council members were not able to turn their ideas into a reality, but she wanted to change that.“This year I think we can actually get something and get it done,” Hughes said....

DANIEL ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Berkeley County Council allocated $100,000 to Daniel Island School and it’s all thanks to a group of students advocating for their classmates.

When eighth-grader Emily Hughes was elected as student council president, she knew she wanted to make a difference at her school. She said in years past, student council members were not able to turn their ideas into a reality, but she wanted to change that.

“This year I think we can actually get something and get it done,” Hughes said.

With the help of sixth-grade vice president Keegan McGivern and fifth-grade members Sara Whitley and Olive Abney, they were able to do just that. The student council got together and jotted down ideas that they wanted to implicate. Hughes said that Abney noticed a classmate who was unable to use the playground equipment at recess due to a physical disability, so he spent his recess reading inside. Hughes said it saddened her that recess was not something he enjoyed in the same way she was able to.

“It was upsetting because we could all use it. I loved playgrounds, like my whole life. And whenever other students can’t enjoy it the same way, we just want them to be included too,” she said.

Together, the student council decided that they wanted to create an inclusive playground. They knew this would be an expensive endeavor, so they first teamed up with their school’s Beta Club members to host a Valentine’s Day-themed fundraiser. Through that, they were able to raise $588, but these students were ambitious. They wanted to take it a step further.

The students got together again to propose a letter to Berkeley County Council. Less than a week after the letter was submitted, the council invited the students to speak at Monday’s council meeting.

“It all happened really fast,” Hughes said.

Hughes took to the podium to share their ideas with the council members. She told them how they didn’t want any students to be left out at recess anymore. District 2 Councilman and Finance Committee Chair Josh Whitley made a motion to allocate $100,000 to the school to get this new, accessible equipment. The motion passed unanimously, and the students received high praise from Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb for their efforts.

“We were all so amazed and excited. It was really exciting and fun,” Hughes said with a grin on her face.

The students’ principals and staff could not have been prouder. The actions of these students hit home for Assistant Principal Jay Burnsworth.

“The biggest thing for me is, and it makes me really emotional in a lot of ways, is that my own son has special needs. And at the end of the day, these kids are doing it for everyone, for the community - not just Daniel Island School, but everyone,” Burnsworth said. “As a father, as an administrator, friend, dad, everybody, I’m just really proud of these kids.”

Once the playground is open, it will be open to the entire community, not just the students of the school.

Burnsworth was not the only one beaming with pride for these four kids. Principal Laura Blanchard shared her praises.

“We just thought it was great that our students recognized that need and wanted all of their friends to be able to play alongside them to the point that they would take action in the way that they did,” she said.

Blanchard and Burnsworth think that the playground will be an incredible physical reminder to the children, for many years to come, that they were able to make a difference.

“It’s really neat to see them empowered in that way. And it’s such a good and positive way,” Blanchard said.

She shared that this was a wonderful learning experience for these kids.

“They learned from the adults in their community that they have a voice. And that we are going to come alongside them and help put feet to their dreams,” Blanchard said.

Blanchard and Burnsworth said that they are already working on initiating the process. They emphasized that they want the students to be fully involved every step of the way. While they are working on the design process, they plan to take the students to different accessible playgrounds in the area so that they can get some ideas. Blanchard said that this is the children’s space, and she wants it to be representative of them, so they should be the ones to decide what is needed.

Hughes expressed some ideas she already had. She said that she would love to have rubber flooring to make wheelchair access easier. She would also love to have wheelchair-accessible swings put in. They also plan to add a sensory garden to the community garden that already exists.

Hughes said she is excited about the next steps.

“We all thought there was space to grow in this area,” she said. “This is something important that needs to happen. So, it was worth it.”

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