Author: SIPOA

Thank You to Melissa Durinsky

On By SIPOAIn Lake House

After nearly two decades at the Lake House, thank you, Melissa Durinsky, for the time, heart, and energy you gave—you made a lasting impact.

Wishing you all the best in what’s ahead!

To my precious Seabrook community, 

After almost two decades on Seabrook, it is time for me to start a new chapter. I wanted to take a moment to tell you how very much I adore you all before I say goodbye. I love the people on this island with all of my heart and soul, but for personal reasons I must depart. 

I will always cherish the memories I’ve made here. We’ve danced together, laughed together, cried together and so much more. You were there for us when the tornado hit our house. You prayed for us when suicide affected our family. You celebrated birthdays, graduations, and holidays right along my side. 

I leave with a full heart, grateful for the friendships and the shared purpose we found here. I am confident this community will continue to thrive. 

With deep appreciation, 
Melissa Durinsky

Long Range Planning Committee 2026 Goals

On By SIPOAIn Long Range Planning

The Long Range Planning Committee supports the SIPOA Board by recommending long-range goals and strategic priorities based on analysis of current conditions and further needs. Its work is guided by SIPOA’s commitment to preserving property values, enhancing quality of life, and sustaining Seabrook Island’s natural beauty through collaborative, long-term planning.

The Committee plays a key role in helping SIPOA plan proactively for the future by focusing on both near-term operational priorities and longer-range community needs. Through data-driven analysis, collaboration with community partners, and careful assessment of emerging trends, the Committee helps ensure that planning decisions support the long-term vitality of Seabrook Island.

Committee Goals:

  • Maintain SIPOA’s Strategic Plan as a living document aligned with the Master Plan and updated as priorities evolve, including 2026 operational priorities, 2027 priorities, and the longer-term vision.
  • Coordinate planning with the Town of Seabrook Island, the Seabrook Island Club, and SIPOA to identify efficient, community-wide solutions that benefit the entire island.
  • Partner with the Finance Committee to develop a long-range financial plan that incorporates expected capital investments and supports appropriate reserve funding to reduce future financial surprises for Property Owners.
  • Conduct a demographic study using input from Seabrook Island Real Estate, the Club, SIPOA, and public sources to provide insight into current and future community trends, and to inform long-range planning and the Master Plan.
  • Analyze the use of social and gathering spaces at the Lake House and the Oyster Catcher Community Center building to help define facility needs and the scope of future Master Plan projects, including SIPOA Phase 0 and Phase 1 initiatives.
  • Identify opportunities with the Town, the Club, and SIPOA for improved coordination, consolidation, and/or co-location of functions to increase operational efficiency and improve services to the community.
  • Evaluate whether shared standards for regimes and associations should be developed and communicated to help Property Owners better understand and protect their property investments.

The Committee will continue to refine these priorities through ongoing collaboration with community partners and will provide updates to Property Owners as planning efforts progress.

Long Range Planning Committee Members: Janet Chesley, Andy Grimalda, Bud Thompson, Allan Stein, Ray Hoover, Scott Cottrill, Darrell Jones, Dennis Richter, Sona Silker, Barbara Vincentsen, Maryanne Connelly (Chair), Chris Hix (Vice Chair)

Submitted by Maryanne Connelly, Long Range Planning Committee Chair

Boardwalk 9 Erosion & Planned Sand Relocation Project

On By SIPOAIn Beach, Beach Projects, Boardwalks, Engineering

Many residents have noticed the erosion that has occurred at Boardwalk 9. In the past several years, erosion has shortened the length of this boardwalk and caused some significant changes to the beach in this area. Currently, the boardwalk is open and accessible, but residents access the beach differently than they have in the past, as shown in the attached photo.

There are plans to improve the condition of the beach in this area. SIPOA plans to conduct a sand scraping project to relocate 150,000 cubic yards of sand along Seabrook Island’s shoreline. The sand scraping permit requires that this work be completed between October 1 and December 31 to avoid impacts to beach habitat. Beginning in October 2026, sand will be collected from the intertidal beach in the area in front of Boardwalk 1, and hauled by truck along the beach to be placed in the area in front of Boardwalk 9. Enough sand will be relocated to create a 100 foot-wide dry sand beach in front of Boardwalk 9. SIPOA is also working to obtain permits to repair the old seawall that has become exposed in this area. If permits are received prior to October 1, the seawall repair may also be completed in 2026.

SIPOA regularly monitors the condition of the Seabrook Island shoreline, and plans for shoreline rehabilitation projects such as these in the annual capital budget. SIPOA also maintains a reserve fund for beach repair and maintenance that can be used to respond to storm damage or other emergencies.

We appreciate your patience as we work to keep the Seabrook Island shoreline in great condition.

Oyster Catcher Stormwater Outfall Update

On By SIPOAIn Engineering, GOMC

The marsh excavation work at the stormwater pipe outfall from Oyster Catcher Ct. has been completed. This project allows for better stormwater drainage during and after a rain event. This stormwater pipe was originally installed approximately 50 years ago. Over time, the marsh changed and accreted significantly in front of the stormwater pipe outfall. This adversely effects the ability to move stormwater.

The before and after photographs clearly demonstrate the impact of this work. A stormwater check valve will also be installed at the end of this pipe to prevent tidal flooding on Oyster Catcher Ct.

Property Owners Luau 2026

On By SIPOAIn Activities, Community Events, Lake House

Island Luau Returns to Seabrook Island

EVENT DETAILS

  • Date: Saturday, May 23
  • Time: 4:00 – 7:00pm
    • Food: 4:30 – 6:00pm
  • Details: Pig Roast, Live music from Tommy Brown Jr. and the Chucktown Players, Beer and Wine
  • Eligibility: Property Owners Only (21+)
  • No RSVP required

Join us for an evening of island-style fun as we kick off the summer season at Seabrook Island’s annual Property Owners Luau on Saturday, May 23, from 4:00–7:00 PM.

This year’s Luau will include a traditional pig roast, live music, and beer and wine. It’s the perfect setting to reconnect with neighbors, relax, and enjoy a beautiful evening on the island as we celebrate the start of the season.

Property owners are encouraged to come ready to enjoy good food, great music, and a lively community atmosphere

Lake House Indoor Pool

On By SIPOAIn Lake House, Pools

As we head into a busy and exciting season at the Lake House Indoor Pool, we’d like to share a friendly reminder of our swimming guidelines to help ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for all.

INDOOR POOL LANE DESIGNATIONS | Seabrook Swim – to help accommodate all users, lanes are designated as follows during Seabrook Swim Hours:

  • Lane 1 (Stairs): Reserved for water therapy
  • Lane 2: Lap swimming
  • Lane 3: Lap swimming
  • Lane 4: Open swim
  • Lane 5: Open swim

INDOOR POOL LANE DESIGNATIONS | Group Exercise – group exercise classes are held in the Indoor Pool:

  • Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
  • Tuesday and Thursday from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

During group exercise classes, lanes are designated as follows:

  • Lane 1 (Stairs): Group exercise
  • Lane 2: Group exercise
  • Lane 3: Group exercise
  • Lane 4: Group exercise
  • Lane 5: Lap swimming
    • Please note: Lane 5 is reserved for lap swimming only.

Amenities & Activities Committee Update 2026

On By SIPOAIn Activities

Dear Seabrook Island Property Owners,

As we move into Spring 2026, I’m pleased to provide this update on the Amenities and Activities Committee’s accomplishments from last year and our exciting goals for the year ahead. Our committee remains dedicated to enhancing the social, recreational, and wellness opportunities that make Seabrook Island such a vibrant place to live, aligning with SIPOA’s mission to preserve property values and improve quality of life for all Property Owners.

Accomplishments in 2025 – 2025 was a transformative year for the committee, building on our rebranding from the Activities Committee to the Amenities & Activities Committee in early 2025. This change expanded our scope to better focus on reviewing, promoting, and improving the island’s many amenities, over 20 in total, from facilities like the Lake House to natural spaces such as trails and waterways.

Key highlights include:

  • Trail Enhancements: We completed and rebranded the Lake House Fitness Trail, adding outdoor workout stations to promote fitness and wellness while enjoying the island’s natural beauty. Additionally, the Marsh to Breakers Trail was finished, providing a scenic path that connects key areas and encourages greater exploration of our conserved lands.
  • New Amenities Guide: The committee invested significant time in creating the “Island Life”, a comprehensive new SIPOA Amenities and Activities guide. This resource details our trails, observation areas, water access points, and more, helping Property Owners discover and utilize these assets to foster a stronger sense of community.
  • Events and Programming: We coordinated four successful all-island events, including the Memorial Day Luau on the Lake House lawn, which welcomed new Property Owners with a pig roast and live music. Our “Get the Scoop” series continued with sessions on topics like the Property Owner Portal and “Who Does What?” featuring TOSI, SIPOA, and SIC representatives.

These efforts only increased awareness and usage of existing amenities, but also strengthened community bonds through inclusive programming.

Welcomed Two New Lake House Staff Members – We are thrilled to welcome two new team members to the Lake House staff: Hannah Rice and Whitney Benson. Their energy and expertise will greatly support our events, facility operations, and community engagement efforts moving forward.

Goals for 2026 – Looking forward, our focus is on building upon these foundations through targeted work groups and strategic initiatives outlined in SIPOA’s 2026-27 Strategic Plan. We’ll continue prioritizing cost-effective improvements, expanded programing, and collaboration to enhance engagement and quality of life.

Work Group Priorities:

  • Trails & Observation Areas: Assess and prioritize enhancements for remaining trails. We will explore the possibility of incorporating additional paths into our trail system, as well as enhancing various nature viewing-observation areas. We’ll explore feasibility for an interconnected island trail system, potentially linking the Lake House to the beach.
  • Water Access: Partner with the General Operations and Maintenance Committee (GOMC) to improve the kayak launch, Crab Dock, and fishing areas across SIPOA-owned bridges, lakes, ponds, and marsh locations. We’ll look to identify additional sites to expand opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Amenity Expansion & Programming – Continue evaluating underutilized assets, with a prioritized multi-year plan based on costs, benefits, and Property Owner feedback. This includes brainstorming sponsored activities to boost awareness and utilization, such as guided nature walks and wellness events.

Events & Collaboration – Coordinate our four annual all-island events (Oyster Roast, Luau, July 4th, and Thanksgiving Week) with the Lake House staff. We’ll also partner with other SIPOA committees for relevant “Get the Scoop” programs and assist with special interest groups with their requests. This year, we’re excited to collaborate with the Seabrook Island Green Space Conservancy and the Safety and Security Committee for an Earth Day-inspired event – the Tour de Greenspace on Sunday, April 26th. This family-friendly event highlights bike safety and the importance of protecting our conserved green spaces.

Master Plan Support – Collaborate with the SIPOA arm of the Master Plan Committee on concepts for the Lake House, Oyster Catcher Community Center, and other amenities ensuring phased improvements align with community needs.

Mark your calendars…

  • April 26 – Tour de Green Space hosted by the Seabrook Island Green Space Conservancy (SIGSC) with the Safety and Security Committee. Begin with a brief bike safety overview, then enjoy a self-guided, family-friendly ride through Seabrook Island’s conserved green spaces while brushing up on bike safety along the way.
  • May 11 – Get the Scoop: Meet the Executive Director plus a brief discussion on Master Plan projects at the Lake House, Live Oak Hall; 4:00pm.
  • May 23 – Luau to welcome new Property Owners and celebrate the beginning of Summer. This is an all-island event for Seabrook Island Property Owners. Event details – Location: Lake House Lawn; Time: 4:00 – 7:00pm; Pig roast; Live music.

Thank you for your support as we work to make Seabrook Island even more enjoyable. Let’s make 2026 a year of continued growth and connection!

Amenities & Activities members: Jean Daly, Bradford Hood, Heather Howard-Haffey, Paula McGill, Sarah Normandia, Joseph Ritchie, Beth Wright, Michelle Wiedemuth (Chair), Richie Bavasso (Vice Chair)

Submitted by Michelle Wiedemuth, Amenities & Activities Chair

Stormwater Projects Update 2026

On By SIPOAIn Engineering, GOMC

OLD FOREST PIPE REPLACEMENT

Construction is complete on Old Forest Drive.

The undersized pipe has been replaced with a 2ft by 4ft box culvert to increase the flow capacity between the two ponds within the finger lakes.

The road has been replaced and is open to vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

OYSTER CATCHER OUTFALL EXCAVATIONS

The stormwater outfall excavation into the marsh from Oyster Catcher Drive is nearly complete. As of this writing, the contractor has completed 450 out of 500 feet of new channel excavation.

The project should be completed by early April and will provide improved stormwater drainage after a rain event in this area.

FINGER LAKES OUTFALL STRUCTURE REPLACEMENT

Construction will begin in early April to replace the outfall structure that discharges stormwater from the finger lakes into the marsh.

New automated controls will be installed to more effectively control water levels in the lakes and prevent tidal flooding into the ponds.

This work is expected to take 3-4 months.

The Importance of Strength Training while taking a GLP-1 Medication

On By SIPOAIn Fitness, Lake House, Wellness

Strength training is especially important when taking a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro because these drugs often cause rapid weight loss, and without resistance exercise, a significant portion of that weight can come from muscle, not just fat.

  1. Preserve Muscle Mass: GLP-1 medications reduce appetite and calorie intake. When calories drop quickly, the body may break down muscle for energy. Strength training signals the body to maintain and build muscle, helping ensure more of the weight lost is fat rather than lean tissue.
  2. Protects Metabolism: Muscle is metabolically active tissue. Losing muscle lowers your resting metabolic rate, which can make long-term weight maintenance harder. Strength training helps keep metabolism higher during weight loss.
  3. Improves Body Composition: People on GLP-1s can lose a lot of scale weight but still end up “skinny-fat” (lower weight but higher body fat percentage). Resistance training shifts the result toward fat loss with muscle retention, improving how the body looks and functions.
  4. Maintains Strength & Function: Muscle loss can lead to fatigue, weakness, and reduced physical function. Training preserves mobility, balance, and everyday strength, which becomes increasingly important with age.
  5. Supports Blood Sugar Control: Strength training increases insulin sensitivity and helps muscles store glucose more effectively, complementing how GLP-1 medications regulate blood sugar.

GLP-1 drugs help you eat less, but strength training tells your body what weight to lose (fat instead of muscle)

For more information on Strength Training while taking a GLP-1 medication or to schedule a personal training appointment with Nancy Steen, please email nsteen@sipoa.org.