RESCUE CREWS RECOVER DOG FROM MARSH See Page 3 JUDGE STANDS FIRM ON RESIDENT SEAWALL See Page 5 Photo by Cindy Branscome Vol.4 Issue 2 February 2026 To read digitally, visit ReadIslandVibes.com The conversation continues at IsleOfPalmsPodcast.com MEET THE CITY'S NEW PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER See Page 6 SPILL THE TEA Bartenders hear all, see all, tell all See Page 19 STROKES OF GENIUS SEWE artists share work See Page 25 PARTNERS IN LOVE IOP couples mix business and romance See Page 16 LAND OF Lovebirds The perfect Valentine's Day getaway
IslandVibesIOP.com 2 Real Estate: (800) 476-8444 Vacation Rentals: (888) 250-8730 dunesproperties.com Nobody knows the Charleston Coast better® Vacation rentals, real estate, and local expertise… we connect you to the best of Charleston’s communities, experiences, and coastal charm. See the Lowcountry from a new perspective
IslandVibesIOP.com 3 location, crews navigated the darkness in an airboat and eventually recovered him no worse for wear. “But he was so far back in the marsh, that by the time rescuers reached him, he was barely moving,” Tidwell said, adding that Banjo was already weighed down with caked pluff mud. “Plus, the tide was coming in and he could have easily drowned – so if we hadn’t found him, I’d say his chances of surviving until morning would have been zero.” While Banjo was cleaned up and safely returned to his happy and relieved family, both Tidwell and members of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources pointed to the incident as a safety reminder to residents, and especially pet owners, to be vigilant in Lowcountry marsh areas. When boaters, for example, get stuck in the deep pluff mud at low tide, their only way out is to wait until the tide returns. “When the tide goes out and you’re not paying attention, you’re going to be there a while because there’s no pulling you out,” said Jay Butfiloski, Certified Wildlife Biologist with SCDNR. “Even places that look wide open can be deceptively shallow.” Further risks include hidden sinkholes, unstable ground, potential disease from ticks and biting insects and encountering wildlife such as snakes, alligators and other hidden threats. “One of the biggest things we see is people not having appropriate footwear, and they can cut themselves on oyster beds or other sharp objects,” Tidwell said. “We also recommend carrying a pole into the marsh because certain areas can become almost like quicksand. People go up to their waist or chest, and it’s almost impossible to get out on your own.” While Banjo’s story ended happily, Tidwell said only the expertly organized energies of all rescue parties kept it from ending the other way. “What are the odds of everything happening the way they did?” Tidwell said. “The call coming in before it was too late, the timely coordinated team effort to get to the dog in time, the NEWS Multi-agency rescue operation saves lost dog in marsh By L. C. Leach III 1314 Stuart Engels Blvd.Suite C, Mount Pleasant SC www.RadRydz.com | 843-972-8525 THE BEST IN CHARLESTON GOLF CARTS MountPleasantMagazine.com/CharlestonGolfCarts While South Carolina’s inland coastal areas offer far more enjoyment than risk, they can at times pose dangers for people and domestic animals. Such was the case when Isle of Palms Police Department and Charleston County Rescue crews recently saved a 5-year-old Bernese Mountain dog named Banjo that had run into the marsh. The incident occurred on the evening of Jan. 5 near Scott’s Creek subdivision in Mount Pleasant, shortly after a 9:22 p.m. call to Mount Pleasant Fire Rescue. Banjo had been delivered to a new family that same day from a rescue organization, then suddenly went missing again from the backyard after jumping a 7-foot-high fence. “The family couldn’t find him, so they reached out to rescue who had placed a beacon in his collar,” said Mount Pleasant Battalion Fire Chief Matthew Tidwell. “They could see he was in the marsh before the beacon got too wet and stopped working.” Using a drone to pinpoint Banjo’s beacon just happening to be in his collar, the drone pinpointing his exact location, the airboat getting to him with no trouble ... If even one little piece of this pie had been missing, it would have been curtains for him. So we’re all glad that it worked out.” Provided by Mount Pleasant Fire and Rescue POINT • SCAN SUBSCRIBE IOP WE Keep a piece of Isle of Palms with you no matter where you live. We will mail you POSITIVE VIBES anywhere in the U.S.
IslandVibesIOP.com 4 Island Vibes Vol. 4, Issue 2 February 2026 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER JAZZY JORDAN ASSISTANT@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM MANAGING EDITOR ZACH GIROUX EDITOR@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ART DIRECTOR BETHANY LONG ART@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM COPY EDITOR COLIN MCCANDLESS BRAND AMBASSADOR SONYA BUCKHANNON SONYA@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM PHOTOGRAPHY CINDY BRANSCOME @CINDYBRANSCOMEPHOTOGRAPHY DIGITAL MANAGER ALLYAH HARRAR ALLYAH@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER ALYSSA FRANCO THEDIGITALTOUCHCHS@GMAIL.COM WEB EDITOR GEORGE CONKLIN CONTRIBUTORS RYAN BUCKHANNON • MARY COY • LAURA FOGARTY • ALLYAH HARRAR • L.C. LEACH III COLIN MCCANDLESS • MEL MILES • KIMBERLYN NAYLOR • PHILLIP POUNDS • SARAH ROSE SUSAN HILL SMITH SALES REPRESENTATIVES STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SHARI SEBUCK SHARI@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ELLEN KERR ELLEN@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPING GINGER SOTTILE BOSS DOG REGGIE DISTRIBUTION ISLE OF PALMS • WILD DUNES • GOAT ISLAND • DEWEES ISLAND • U.S. POST OFFICE • HARRIS TEETER • CVS • FOOD LION ASHEVILLE/HENDERSON AIRPORT ALL SC WELCOME CENTERS DIRECT MAIL VIA US POST OFFICE Homes on Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island Affluent neighborhoods rotated monthly Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville, NC Buckhead, Druid Hills, Decatur, Atlanta, Georgia Island Vibes is published locally by a team of independent contractors. Island Vibes is published 12 times per year by Islands Publishing LLC. 1013 Chuck Dawley Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Copyright © Islands Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction electronically or in print format without the expressed written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited and a violation of U.S. copyright laws. Content, including editorial, advertising or comments, that threatens, harasses or degrades others may be revoked or refused from print and online publication at the sole discretion of Island Vibes. Inquiries to: Island Vibes P.O. Box 22617, Charleston, SC 29413 A South Carolina Press Association Award-Winning Publication! FROM THE TEAM Publisher’s Note Isle of Patriots Editor’s Note My last first date Hubba hubba! What a sight she was and what a night we had. In honor of Valentine’s Day, I’ve decided to take a personal trip down lovers’ lane. Here is the story of my last first date that took place at The Dinghy on Isle of Palms some eight years ago. The year was 2018, Feb. 23 to be exact, and it had only been a week or so since Valentine’s Day. After spending the holiday raising awareness for fellow bachelors like me, I was yet again bit by the love bug. It was likely a no-see-um, but for all intents and purposes it was a direct shot to the heart from Cupid’s arrow. After a slew of romantic text messages like most millennials do, we decided to meet face-to-face for the first time. Unbeknownst to both of us it would be the last first date of our young dating careers. Her name is Jeanne. She’s marvelous and magical like a genie in a bottle, only better. As a young 20-something, I didn’t have the pomp and circumstance to wow her. But I did have the connections, and I knew right from the start that lady luck was on my side. The Dinghy bartender was and still is my best friend’s sister from my early childhood days. I was playing with house money. I had the home field advantage. Little did I know that she was out of my league. After copious amounts of feel-good drinks that seemed to be in endless supply, it happened. No, it wasn’t a soft kiss on the cheek. In fact, there wasn’t anything subtle about it. My date, the queen of my dreams who would later become my lawfully wedded wife, took a bite out of my face! My gut reaction was to dial 911 and get tested for rabies. But my heart whispered she’s the one. We spent the rest of the night swapping old stories like best friends at that beachside bar. We stayed until last call. They almost had to kick us out just so they could close. We owned the night. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that someone like you actually existed. Thanks for the countless laughs and endless love. And thanks for leaving a mark on my heart that will never recover. Forever yours, Zach Giroux Editor Community is about coming together, right? I hope in some way that’s what happens every time you read Island Vibes in print or digitally, ReadIslandVibes.com; it brings this island together. I’m sure y’all have seen our new, optional standard state license plate displaying the slogan, “Where the Revolutionary War Was Won.” The truth of the matter is that Breach Inlet and Isle Palms did play a role in our new license plates and winning the Revolutionary War. I can hear y’all now, asking, ‘What the heck is Bill talking about now?’ That’s a pretty big statement, and you’re right that this is a big deal! If British Gen. Charles Cornwallis had not landed on Long Island (Isle of Palms) in June 1776 and sent a reconnaissance out to gather information about Breach Inlet, the patriots wouldn’t have won that battle. Cornwallis was told that Breach Inlet was shallow enough at low tide to cross. Of course we know in hindsight he received incorrect information. The Battle of Sullivan’s Island on June 28, 1776, was critical and prevented Fort Moultrie and Charleston from initially being captured, although Charleston would eventually succumb to a British siege in 1780. The saying on our new license plates should read, “Isle of Palms is Where the Revolutionary War Was Won.” Our victory at Breach Inlet not only saved Charleston from being captured, but it also became a defining battle in the Revolutionary War. Go Isle of Palms! Who wants to start petitioning the state to change the motto on our new license plate? Just asking… Thanks for reading Island Vibes. And speaking of the Revolutionary War, 2026 is our nation’s 250th birthday. Happy anniversary, America! Positively yours, Bill Macchio Publisher Jeanne Everett and Zach Giroux spent their first date at The Dinghy on Feb. 23, 2018
IslandVibesIOP.com 5 NEWS About the Cover Lovely Lovebirds By Zach Giroux Judge sets deadline for deconstruction of illegal seawall By L. C. Leach III The case of the illegally constructed seawall built by Isle of Palms resident Rom Reddy has at last reached a point of no return. On Dec. 30, 2025, two months after ruling that the seawall had to be removed, but without specifying a time frame, Court Judge Ralph Anderson handed down an order requiring Reddy to deconstruct the seawall, with removal potentially beginning as early as mid-summer 2026. The order came more than seven months after a court hearing in May 2025 in Columbia, and more than There’s a lot at stake on both sides.We are trying to protect the integrity of the public beach, and he is trying to protect his property. — SCELP Executive Director Amy Armstrong two-and-a-half years after officials with the state’s Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM) first became aware of the structure. Legal representatives associated with the Department of Environmental Services (DES), the Coastal Conservation League (CCL) and OCRM argued in court that Reddy not only violated a state law per the 1977 Coastal Tidelines and Wetlands Act, but that hard erosion control devices on the beachfront contribute to the deterioration of the beach, which is a public trust resource. Reddy has 30 days from the date of the order to file an appeal. But Lauren Megill Milton, attorney with the South Carolina Environmental Law Project (SCELP) in Columbia, which represented the Coastal Conservation League in the court case, pointed out that the removal of the seawall will have to take place regardless of further action Reddy may take. “An appeal does not automatically stay enforcement of an Administrative Law Court decision,” Milton said. “Until and unless a court acts, the order remains enforceable as written.” The order specifically requires Reddy to comply with the following: To submit a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) for the seawall’s removal and restoration of the affected beach area within 60 days of the Dec. 30 order. Following DES review and approval of the plan and sand samples, removal of the seawall must commence within 90 days of CAP approval and be completed within 30 days thereafter. “If the respondent (Reddy) fails to comply with the court-ordered schedule, the department would likely pursue a contempt of court citation or further enforcement actions to compel the work,” Milton said. “At this point, we are hopeful that all parties will focus on doing the right thing by getting the beach restored as quickly as possible.” Despite the order and the apparent victory, SCELP Executive Director Amy Armstrong is preparing for the matter to continue on appeal. “Cases like this often take quite a while to resolve, sometimes years, and this matter is still far from over,” Armstrong said. “There’s a lot at stake on both sides. We are trying to protect the integrity of the public beach, and he is trying to protect his property.” Nothing quite says Valentine’s Day like two lovebirds, roseate spoonbills to be avian appropriate, floating along on a romantic date in the coastal waters on Isle of Palms. In honor of February being Love Month, we inquired where we could capture such a moment. Instead of tracking their migratory patterns or venturing on a bird-watching expedition, we called upon the services of IOP’s finest nature and landscape photographer, Cindy Branscome. Branscome is an Isle of Palmsbased photographer who focuses on the natural beauty of the coastal region through her work in landscape and wildlife photography. She is recognized for her ability to capture the distinct scenery of the Lowcountry, which includes sunrises, sunsets and significant weather events. Her portfolio features close-up images of local wildlife, such as deer on the beach and various bird species, including egrets, herons, bluebirds and painted buntings. Branscome’s work can be found on her social media accounts, including Facebook and Instagram, under the handle @ CindyBranscomePhotography. Roseate spoonbills are one of the most eye-catching birds you’ll ever spot around IOP if you’re lucky. These feathered friends light up the marshes with their flamboyant pink feathers and often get mistaken for flamingos. They get their rosy color from a shrimp-heavy diet and are easy to identify by their unique spoon-shaped bill, which they sweep side to side through shallow water to forage for food. According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, they are a rare, uncommon coastal species that visits the state’s marshes, but they don’t typically nest in South Carolina. Plume hunting nearly wiped out roseate spoonbills in the late 1800s, but sightings in the Lowcountry have become more common in recent years. If roseate spoonbills can make a comeback from near extinction, then so can your love life. There are plenty of fish in the sea, but there is not another bird in the sky that better represents love. Cindy Branscome OCRM staff was made aware in January 2024 that unauthorized rip rap was installed at the base of the unauthorized erosion control structure.
array of relevant local issues, such as beach nourishment efforts, area tourism and marketing, city council discussions through live streaming, new city job postings and changes in city policies. “With Joshua stepping into this new role, we have expanded the position’s scope from tourism coordination to comprehensive public information,” said IOP City Administrator Douglas Kerr. “By broadening these duties, we aim to increase transparency and ensure the public is fully aware of the many positive projects the city currently has underway.” This is not his first job with a municipality. Part of Uys’ background includes interning with the City of Charleston, where he got the chance to restructure their website; see how a city functions “behind the scenes;” compile come by and scarce – so I developed our new ‘Beach’ page,” he said. “I developed an interactive map that shows the dates of various beach projects and highlights the location of sand placement, so residents and businesses are informed about the dates and location of affected areas well in advance of placement.” It’s a lot to manage early on, but Uys is eyeing the challenge with his sleeves rolled up. “I wake up every morning excited for work,” he said. “Every day is different and I’m learning every day, pairing perfectly with my MPA (Master of Public Administration) classes I take in the evening.” 6 IslandVibesIOP.com New public information officer focused on more than tourism growth By L. C. Leach III Waterway Blvd. flood barrier aims to boost tidal safety By L. C. Leach III NEWS When the City of Isle of Palms hired South African-born Joshua Uys last December to fill the void of public information officer, it was in many ways exactly the kind of position for which he had been training for years. “I can’t exactly pinpoint when I became interested in government,” said Uys, who relocated to the Lowcountry from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, at age 18 with his family, and enrolled at the College of Charleston. “But I’ve always had a passion for people and community. I knew I wanted to pursue a career that directly impacts people’s day-to-day lives.” Uys’ hiring came after a threemonth search by the city, and his role is as clear as his title: to keep the public and press informed and updated on an The battle to combat flooding on Isle of Palms is being fought along many fronts: sectional drainage, water discharge systems and beach renourishment at both ends of the island. As of late, area engineers are preparing to begin Phase 2 of the Waterway Boulevard Flood Barrier Project. “The City of Isle of Palms is experiencing increased occurrences of flooding due to extreme high tides, sea level rise and more intense coastal storms,” said Hillary Aton, project manager with Thomas & Hutton engineering services in Mount Pleasant, who is overseeing the flood project. “These conditions, combined with the lack of a formal drainage system in some areas and the general low-lying topography of the island, have created flooding conditions throughout the city.” Phases 1 and 1A, which consisted of a new $1.5 million flood barrier within the Harbor Golf Course at Wild Dunes, were completed in the fall of 2025. Holes 9 and 10 that parallel the Intracoastal Waterway were also raised in elevation to assist in seasonal tidal flooding. resident feedback on floodwater concerns into a detailed briefing for the mayor’s office; and survey local small business resource partners to develop a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs seeking funding or procurement opportunities. Uys came to Isle of Palms in the summer of 2025, initially to work in the Building, Planning, and Zoning Department. He knew immediately that he was exactly where he wanted to be. “The culture at the City of Isle of Palms was what I was looking for,” he said. “Staff are friendly, laid-back, and I thrive under a laissez-faire team of leaders.” From day one, Uys was thrust into the middle of a major ongoing public issue: IOP beach erosion and renourishment. “Residents and businesses were concerned that information was hard to Phase 2, running for approximately 1.68 miles between 21st and 41st avenues, is now in permitting with construction expected to begin in February. This part of the project for the Waterway Boulevard Pathway is expected to protect the island from tidal intrusions and coastal-driven flooding from the north side. “Improvements include raising the pathway to an elevation of 7 feet to provide protection from extreme tides and sea level rise,” Aton said. “Portions of the existing pathway are below elevation 5 feet, and as low as 4.27 feet, and have experienced overtopping from extreme tide events on numerous occasions.” Additional improvements in Phase 2 will include new, localized drainage systems to convey stormwater runoff captured under the pathway, and installation of inline check valves on all pipes along the corridor that discharge under the pathway to the Intracoastal Waterway. “The check valves will serve to prevent tidal backflow in the drainage system and eliminate sunny day flooding, as well as preserve the capacity in the drainage system,” Aton said. Phase 2 is anticipated to be completed by the fall of 2026, and the city has secured all 22 release agreements from adjacent property owners. Funding for the project, approved on Aug. 23, 2024, totals approximately $1.08 million. The federal cost share amounted to $979,931.70, while the remaining $108,881.30 either must come from the city or another funding source secured by the city. “No additional funding has been requested or approved,” said Tiffanie Barrett, chief of public information and external affairs with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. “But local and state governments can apply for federal hazard mitigation grants, most of which are available only after a federal disaster declaration for the state.” “The tidal protection components of Phase 1 have not yet been tested with a severe tidal event or coastal storm event,” Aton added. Isle of Palms city leadership and the project's engineering firm and contractor have completed Phase 1 of the Waterway Boulevard project and anticipate Phase 2 to begin in Q1 2026. Joshua Uys
IslandVibesIOP.com 7 Breach Inlet renourishment project proving to be beneficial By L. C. Leach III To combat beach erosion on Isle of Palms, city leaders and engineers have tried a variety of measures over the past 40 years such as sandbag placement, sand scraping, dune restoration and planting native vegetation. One effort that seems to be gaining ground is an ongoing project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to dredge excess sand from an Intracoastal Waterway shoal around the IOP Connector and transfer it to much-needed areas between 10th Avenue and 2nd Avenue on the western part of the island. The shoal runs for approximately 17,800 linear feet (3.3 miles), and the project is not only making for a safer and more navigable waterway, but right now it also appears to offer the best chance to keep area beaches intact for the long-term without costing the city millions. “The sediment is being excavated from the placement areas and transported hydraulically via dredge to the beaches adjacent to Breach Inlet on Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island,” said project acting chief Dylan Burnell with USACE, Charleston District. “We also conducted emergency dredging in the navigation channel to address shoaling that was impacting safe passage.” USACE project manager Jacob Kyzar added that once finished, the two projects will have placed approximately 850,000 cubic yards of sand on the beach – at no cost to the city “for either the dredging or the placement.” “The beneficial use placement sites on Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island were selected based on their proximity to the dredged material placement areas and predominant shoaling areas along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway,” Kyzar said. “We plan to continue partnering with the City of Isle of Palms to use the beach as a beneficial use placement site.” NEWS The project began in fall of 2024 and is scheduled for completion by early spring of 2026. Funding will come from USACE’s Operation & Maintenance funds for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. While the work has required a certain amount of resident adjustment to the extra noise, lights at night, loss of parking and closed portions of the beach, IOP City Administrator Douglas Kerr pointed out that the potential offsetting benefit in cost is far worth the temporary inconvenience. “To do this ourselves would cost about $4.5 million,” Kerr previously noted. “And because beach restoration work is so expensive, it would be an enormous benefit if the project is successful and can be replicated in the future.” So far, both Kyzar and Burnell see all signs pointing to a long-range positive outcome and anticipate future partnering efforts to keep IOP beaches as protected as possible from the constant threat of erosion. “We do believe the beneficial use of sediment placement by the Charleston District has significantly supported the island,” Burnell said. “It has provided valuable sediment to the dynamic coastal system, contributing to wave attenuation and increased resilience during storm events. The project has enhanced the island’s natural coastal defense, regardless of any additional interventions.” The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is rehandling sediment from four existing placement areas to make room for future Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway dredging
IslandVibesIOP.com 8 OPINION IOP is a year-round paradise for lovers By Joshua Uys, Public information officer, City of Isle of Palms FROM KING STREET TO THE COAST Amy Rogers Owner / Broker-In-Charge +1 843 824 4892 amy@crowncoast.com Crown Coast Properties 1100 Palm Blvd #2C Isle of Palms, SC 29451 hello@crowncoast.com crowncoast.com Led by Amy Rogers, Crown Coast Properties combines sharp market expertise with personalized service for Charleston’s most discerning buyers and sellers. From historic homes to oceanfront escapes, we bring clarity, confidence, and sophistication to every step of your real estate journey. Charleston’s Boutique Brokerage for Exceptional Results LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the Isle of Palms LENS Foundation for the incredible support they provide to our first responders and their families. They lift up our police and fire departments in so many meaningful ways. Whether it’s helping during hardships, offering safety and community programs or simply bringing joy to families throughout the year, their kindness strengthens our community. Sometimes their work happens quietly and confidentially, and I’ve seen firsthand how life-changing it can be to connect someone in need. Thank you, IOP LENS Foundation, for showing up for those who show up for us. Blessings and peace, Paula Mullen IOPPD and IOPFD Chaplain The Isle of Palms is the perfect getaway, not just for Valentine’s Day, but any time of year. Located just 12 miles from historic downtown Charleston, the Isle of Palms is a family-friendly barrier island nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Visitors can explore the island by boat, kayak or paddleboard from the Isle of Palms Marina or cruise its streets by bike, moped or golf cart, all available to rent. Winter brings cooler breezes and a quieter pace, ideal for rest, reflection and relaxation. Seasonal highlights include the annual Polar Plunge, where thrill seekers take a dip in the winter ocean. Many local businesses offer special deals and lower rates during this time, and parking is free along Front Beach and in municipal lots, making winter on the Isle of Palms an especially charming time for a Valentine’s Day getaway. Each March, the island welcomes spring with the Front Beach Fest. This annual event features craft vendors, children’s activities, local restaurants and food vendors lining the walkable stretch of Ocean Boulevard as temperatures begin to warm. Summer delivers classic beach energy. The island boasts seven miles of wide, pristine shoreline, warm waters, lively outdoor dining and long sunny days perfect for soaking up the Lowcountry coastal lifestyle. In the fall, visitors enjoy fewer crowds and continued warm temperatures. Lowcountry autumns are ideal for peaceful beach walks and some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets of the year. The Isle of Palms strikes a balance between comfort and luxury. Accommodations range from oceanfront resorts and boutique hotels to quaint vacation homes. The island offers an array of dining options, from casual to fine, and convenient shopping within walkable beachfront districts, including Front Beach and the Wild Dunes Boardwalk. No matter the season, the island’s natural beauty remains a constant and compelling draw, making the Isle of Palms a destination worth visiting year-round.
IslandVibesIOP.com 9 CIVICS Mayor’s Message Practice positivity every opportunity you get By Phillip Pounds, Mayor, Isle of Palms We recently held our municipal inauguration where we administered the oath to our newly elected council members and mayor. It is always a special night with friends and family in attendance to witness this event in a loved one’s life. After everyone was sworn in, I made some brief remarks. Some of those are below: Each new year brings a certain amount of hope, promise and anticipation. A recent article in The New York Times stated: “Cynicism is vastly on the rise,” but experts say it’s reversible if people cultivate hope that another future is possible. One expert stated: “While optimism is the belief that the future will be better, hope is the belief that we have the power to make it so.” Think about that for a minute and how that approach could change things personally or as a community. According to this article, to cultivate hope, people need three things: 1. They need to be able to envision a better future. 2. They need the willpower or motivation to move toward that future. 3. And, they must be able to chart “a path from where they are to where they want to be.” So, how can we be more hopeful? Experts say that people can set specific goals and then “begin brainstorming the pathways or road maps” to achieve them. That can start small. Additionally, replace cynicism with skepticism. “Skepticism is not believing that everything will turn out great, but also not prejudging things as terrible, either.” That can simply mean speaking more positively about other people. People gossip three times as much about the selfish things others do than about the generous things they do. To address that, it is suggested we practice “positive gossip.” Each evening this author and his family try to share one story of something positive that somebody else did that day. The research finds that when you know you’re going to have to share something, you pay a lot more attention to it. This article was a great reminder of some things totally in our control and how to bring some positive thinking into our daily lives. When a new year begins, some of us make resolutions. I hope we will all resolve to be an example for other municipalities to follow in how we live life – our approach to problem solving, our interactions, our willingness to help others, our generosity and our respectful approach to each other. To our residents, we are nine fellow residents that you have elected to represent you. Thank you for this opportunity! These are roles you have chosen us for that allow us to use our time, talent and energy to help make this community better. I know we won’t agree on all decisions, but I hope we can keep perspective and realize that many other municipalities would welcome having our list of “issues” and “problems.” Thank you for the opportunity to serve! Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net MAKE CONNECTIONS WITHOUT BOOKING EXPENSIVE GOLF TRIPS IN APRIL 2025, MOUNT PLEASANT MAGAZINE RAN THIS CAMPAIGN GENERATED MORE THAN 300,000 IMPRESSIONS. REACH ATTENDEES AT THESE ICONIC EVENTS GEOFENCING THE MASTERS ALL WEEK LONG AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL FOLLOWED BY THE HERITAGE IN HILTON HEAD ALLOWS ISLAND VIBES TO REACH ATTENDEES AT TWO OF GOLF’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS EVENTS.
IslandVibesIOP.com 10 Last year, Isle of Palms residents started talking about planting more palmettos on the island, especially since Dominion Energy removed about 300 trees. Now there’s a community-wide effort underway, Plant-a-Palm 2.0, and it has gained momentum! Plant-a-Palm 2.0 is a community-driven initiative to plant palm trees throughout the island. This group was inspired by Plant-a-Palm, which was created in 1990 when Hurricane Hugo devastated the island and a group of residents planted more than 800 sabal palmettos to restore the island’s natural beauty after the Category 4 hurricane. The first project approved by IOP City Council focuses on the public parking lot at Ocean Boulevard and Pavilion Drive. It’s a large, unpaved lot and one of the least attractive pieces of property on the island, but it’s also the island’s front door and first impression for visitors. The Family Vacation Rental Group recently presented a $6,600 check to Patsy Hindman and Jimmy Carroll, the founders and organizers of Plant-a-Palm 2.0. The donation will be used to purchase 22 palm trees. However, in a few more months, the public parking lot will be beautifully landscaped with around 130 palmettos – and the trees are not going to take away a single parking space. “The parking lot’s going to be an oasis on the Isle of Palms,” said Carroll, the former mayor helping lead this effort. Trees are being purchased by residents, property owners, businesses and civic organizations such as the Family Vacation Rental Group. Each tree costs $300. “In this day and age, unless there’s a disaster, you don’t see people pulling together,” said Hindman, a longtime island resident and one of the grassroots organizers behind Plant-a-Palm 2.0. “But I’ve had people tell me, ‘Let me know if you need more!’ It’s been very impressive.” The movement has so much momentum that the group hopes to plant palmettos in other parks on the island, maybe even at the marina. Anywhere there’s city land is a possibility. This beautification project brings our community together for the improvement of our city. “Hopefully, we will have a celebration and dedication of this cool community event. It will be something positive for everyone after this past election,” Carroll stated. If you would like to help out and donate a tree, please contact Hindman at pbhindman@bellsouth.net. BUSINESS Palm tree initiative receives donation to plant 22 more By Mel Miles Family Vacation Rental Group, co-chair Cheese Ball banquet to feature Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist By Ted Kinghorn IOP LENS Foundation, director Pictured (from left) are IOPPD Sgt. Chad King; Robert Asero, Assistant Director of Public Works; Patsy Hindman, co-founder Plant-a-Palm 2.0; former IOP Mayor Jimmy Carroll; Michael Carroll of Carroll Realty; Hugh Swingle of Palm Blvd Vacation Rentals; Beth Crunelle and Sarah Botkin of Dreams N Druthers Properties. Doug Mills Mark your calendars for one of the most anticipated events of the year. On Thursday, May 14, the Isle of Palms Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support (LENS) Foundation invites you to The Cheese Ball, a semi-formal, can’t-miss evening of celebration, dining, dancing and giving back. Held at the Osprey Ballroom at Wild Dunes Resort, this annual banquet raises critical funds for the Isle of Palms police and fire departments while bringing the community together in unforgettable style. Each year, the LENS Banquet features a unique theme, and this year’s Cheese Ball concept brings together the sophistication of a wine and cheese reception with the joy of live orchestra dancing. The evening includes a sitdown dinner, a jazz trio and spirited competition via the Big Cheese fundraiser challenge. Twelve contestants will compete to raise the most ‘cheddar’ (money, that is!) for a ‘gouda’ cause. What makes this year even more exciting is the announcement of our keynote speaker, Doug Mills, legendary photojournalist for The New York Times. Mills has photographed every U.S. president since Ronald Reagan and recently won the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Photography for capturing the dramatic moment a bullet whizzed past President Donald Trump during an assassination attempt. With past Pulitzers for team coverage of the Clinton/Gore campaign, Mills has spent four decades translating history into powerful visual storytelling. Guests will also have the chance to attend an exclusive luncheon and meet-and-greet with Mills at Wild Dunes for a separate donation. Attendance is limited. A cornerstone of The Cheese Ball is its heartfelt mission: to honor and recognize the incredible dedication of our island’s police officers and firefighters. The primary goal of the evening is to celebrate their service, uplift their contributions and ensure they are publicly acknowledged in the presence of the community they serve. A special portion of the evening will be dedicated to presenting the annual LENS Appreciation Awards, which honor individuals who have gone above and beyond. Awards are presented in four categories: the Founders Recognition Award, Volunteer of the Year, George Reeth Leadership Award and Lifetime Achievement Award. Early bird tickets are $125 through April 1 and $150 thereafter. Every ticket helps cover the cost for first responders and their families to attend. Supporters can also rally behind their favorite Big Cheese contestant at lensiop.org/ big-cheese by donating and checking the leaderboard. From inspiring speakers to incredible music and a mission that matters, The Cheese Ball promises a night as meaningful as it is memorable. Register at lensiop.org/cheese-ball.
IslandVibesIOP.com 11 the phrase “road soda” is legally binding. Officers gently clarified that it is not. In several cases, alcohol was present alongside poor driving decisions, unpaid taxes or fake identification, creating a festive but inadvisable cocktail of charges. CONFIDENCE HIGH, COORDINATION LOW Driving under the influence calls were steady and deeply predictable. Offenders were charged with DUI first offenses, second offenses and refusals. One particularly ambitious case involved a blood alcohol level that clearly misunderstood the assignment. Some drivers declined breath tests, possibly hoping sobriety would manifest retroactively. Others combined DUI with open containers, suspended licenses or fake IDs, achieving what officers described as a “full bingo card.” Police remind the public that driving impaired is illegal, regardless of whether the impairment comes from alcohol, marijuana or “I only had two, occifer.” Check off your List Overall, the department applauds the community’s commitment to consistency. While violent crime remained low, licenses, insurance and sobriety continued to be optional in spirit, if not in law. Officers encourage residents to try a bold new trend next month: valid license insurance sobriety fewer court dates CRIME LEGALIZE COMMON SENSE POLICE BLOTTER This is a satirical summary of real incidents reported on the Isle of Palms over the past month. All names and events are based on public records and presented here with comedic exaggeration. THE “PAPERWORK IS A SUGGESTION” ERA Police encountered a remarkable number of motorists bravely piloting vehicles with no license, a suspended license, someone else’s license or a license plate that technically expired years ago. Driving under suspension proved wildly popular, with repeat appearances suggesting a loyalty program may exist. Uninsured vehicles were also well-represented, roaming freely like feral golf carts. Some drivers attempted to compensate by speeding, others by pretending blue lights were “decorative” and at least one by leaving the scene entirely – perhaps assuming hit-and-run laws are more of a guideline than a rule. Defective equipment stops revealed headlights that didn’t work, taillights that gave up emotionally and window tint so dark the driver may have been navigating by echolocation. HARD DRUGS = HARD TIME Drug-related incidents ranged from simple possession to “definitely not simple” possession, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, MDMA and mushrooms that were absolutely not purchased at Whole Foods. Several suspects attempted to balance their narcotics with responsible driving habits, only to immediately ruin the effort by also being under suspension, uninsured or carrying enough paraphernalia to open a roadside Etsy shop. Officers noted that many drugs were discovered during traffic stops, reinforcing the longstanding rule: if you’re going to break the law, do not break all the laws at once. OPEN CONTAINERS, CLOSED MINDS Alcohol-related incidents featured open containers rolling freely, minors proudly holding beers they did not legally own and fake IDs that appeared to have been printed moments earlier using a home printer set to “draft.” Broken liquor seals in vehicles remained a crowd favorite, suggesting some drivers believe Local law enforcement had a busy few weeks reminding residents that cars work best when legally operated, substances work best when not possessed and alcohol works best when not combined with either of the first two. Stay safe out there – or at least slower.
IslandVibesIOP.com 12 SPORTS Pickleball charity nets $40K for pediatric cancer research By Susan Hill Smith Wild Dunes Pickleball Association’s first charity pickleball tournament netted $40,000 for pediatric cancer research at the Medical University of South Carolina. “I was overwhelmed with gratitude for our extremely generous community,” said WDPA President Jen Stephens, who works and plays regularly at the Wild Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center. She noted that the final tally exceeded expectations. “So many people gave monetary donations, as well as items for the silent auction and raffle, and it was a huge success! Not only that, but everyone who played in the tournament was part of the fundraising.” Held on Nov. 16, the Paddles Up to End Childhood Cancer tournament featured three divisions of men’s and women’s doubles, playing across Wild Dunes Resort’s six pickleball courts. Fifty-two participants took part in competitive play, and an additional 23 players joined the “Just for Fun” round robin later in the afternoon. The day ended with a catered players party and silent auction that brought everyone together. “We raised money for critical research while enjoying a fun day of competitive pickleball,” said Josh Smith, director of pickleball for Wild Dunes Resort. “It’s a proud first for our program as we help lead the development of the sport in the Charleston area.” The WDPA board expressed thanks to all the sponsors, businesses and individuals who contributed auction items, including Jeff’s Bagel Run, which provided breakfast for all players and spectators. Top sponsors and donors included: The Day Dinkers, Wild Pickle Chicks, Taverna Philosophia, Slotchiver & Slotchiver, Carroll Investors, Carroll Realty, Gwynn’s, Network Security Services, DeepWater Church and Dunes Properties. WINNERS BY DUPR LEVEL: Women’s 3.0: Laurie Pounds and Carol Webber Women’s 3.5: Sue Crowell and Diane Duffy Women’s 4.0: Joann Terrell and Liz Lyman Men’s 3.0: Dave Strickert and Gregg Scott Men’s 3.5: Tabb Evans and Mark Mills Men’s 4.0: Chris Marquez and Russ Bridgham COLLEGE BASEBALL (2026 Regular Season Schedules) CLEMSON SOUTH CAROLINA college of charleston THE CITADEL Feb. 13-15 vs. Northern Kentucky Feb. 17 @ Wofford Feb. 18 vs. Gardner-Webb Feb. 20 vs. Army Feb. 21 vs. Navy Feb. 22 vs. Air Force Feb. 25 vs. Queens Feb. 27-28 vs. Clemson March 1 @ Clemson March 3 vs. USC Upstate March 4 vs. Charleston Southern March 7-8 vs. Princeton March 10 @ The Citadel March 13-15 @ Florida March 17 vs. Charlotte March 20-22 vs. Arkansas March 24 vs. North Carolina March 27-29 @ Georgia March 31 vs. Wofford April 2-4 vs. Texas April 7 vs. College of Charleston April 9-11 @ Missouri April 14 vs. Davidson April 17-19 vs. Mississippi State April 21 vs. Presbyterian April 24-26 vs. Kentucky April 28 vs. The Citadel May 1-3 @ LSU May 8-10 vs. Alabama May 12 vs. Winthrop May 14-16 @ Vanderbilt May 19-24 SEC Tournament Feb. 13-15 vs. Liberty Feb. 20-21 vs. Marshall Feb. 22 vs. Army Feb. 27-March 1 @ Florida State March 4 vs. Georgia Southern March 6-8 @ Kentucky March 10 vs. South Carolina March 13-15 @ UT-Martin March 17 @ Georgia March 18 vs. Clemson March 20-22 @ Mercer March 25 vs. Presbyterian March 27-29 vs. Western Carolina March 31 vs. Coastal Carolina April 2-4 vs. Longwood April 7 vs. Charleston Southern April 8 @ Winthrop April 10-12 @ Wofford April 14 @ Charleston Southern April 17-19 @ ETSU April 22 @ Georgia Southern April 24-26 vs. UNCG April 28 @ South Carolina April 29 vs. College of Charleston May 1 @ Presbyterian May 2 vs. Presbyterian May 3 @ Presbyterian May 8-10 vs. Samford May 12 @ Coastal Carolina May 14-16 @ VMI May 19 Southern Conference Championships onference Championships Feb. 13-15 vs. Rutgers Feb. 17 @ Coastal Carolina Feb. 20-22 vs. South Alabama Feb. 23 vs. Air Force Feb. 25East Carolina (neutral site) Feb. 27 James Madison (neutral site) Feb. 28 Illinois (neutral site) March 3 vs. Presbyterian March 6-8 @ Hofstra March 11 @ Wofford March 13-15 vs. Stony Brook March 17 vs. Clemson March 20-22 vs. UNCW March 25 vs. Georgia Southern March 27-29 @ Campbell March 31 @Winthrop April 2-4 vs. High Point April 7 @ South Carolina April 10-12 vs. North Carolina A&T April 14 vs. USC Upstate April 17-19 @ William & Mary April 21 vs. Charleston Southern April 24-26 vs. Campbell April 29 @ The Citadel May 1-3 @UNCW May 5 @ Charleston Southern harleston Southern May 8-10 @ Elon May 12 @ Georgia Southern May 14-16 vs. William & Mary May 20 CAA Baseball Championship Feb. 13-15 vs. Army Feb. 17 vs. Charlotte Feb. 20-22 vs. Bryant Feb. 24 vs. Presbyterian Feb. 27-28 @ South Carolina March 1 vs. South Carolina March 4 Michigan State (neutral site) March 6-8 vs. Lasalle March 10 Georgia Southern (neutral site) March 12-14 vs. Georgia Tech March 17 @ College of Charleston March 18 @ The Citadel March 20-22 @ Notre Dame March 24 vs. Coastal Carolina March 26-28 vs. Miami (FL) April 1 Wake Forest (neutral site) April 3-5 @ Stanford April 6 @ Santa Clara April 10-12 vs. North Carolina April 14 @ Charlotte April 16-18 @ Virginia April 21 vs. USC Upstate April 24-26 @ Louisville May 1-3 vs. Boston College May 5 @ Coastal Carolina May 8-10 vs. Florida State May 12 @ USC Upstate May 14-16 @ Virginia Tech May 19-24 ACC Baseball Champi Championship
IslandVibesIOP.com 13 SPORTS It’s no secret that golf can be a challenging and at times frustrating sport, but it’s also true that sometimes it just takes one perfect shot to keep you returning to the links eager for more. Isle of Palms resident Mic Smith experienced this equivalent of golf euphoria when he started off 2026 the right way by acing a hole-in-one on the Links Course at Wild Dunes on New Year’s Day. Smith, owner of Mic Smith Photography, is used to capturing other people’s life milestones and unforgettable moments behind his lens, but this frame-worthy highlight belonged to him. Smith was playing a free round of golf he had won at an auction with three of his buddies from the Post and Courier who have played together for 25-plus years: deputy sports editor Fred Rindge, circulation director Steve Wagenlander and assistant circulation director Ben Morgan. “I wasn’t playing that well,” admitted Smith, who previously worked 14 years as a photographer at the Post and Courier. But that changed when the group reached hole 4, par-3 at the Links. Using an 8 iron, Smith stepped up and struck the shot from 140 yards out. “I could tell I hit it really well,” he recalled. Due to the pin placement over the hill, they couldn’t tell whether it went in at first, but it seemed like it had a chance. As the foursome walked up the hill, they couldn’t see the ball on the green. When they ultimately confirmed it had indeed dropped in the cup, Smith erupted into a full Phil Mickelson celebration with both arms raised in the air in rapture. Rindge took out his camera and documented the moment on video. It was an amazing day overall for the 1990 graduate of Indiana University. Not only did he sink his first-ever hole-inone, but his Hoosiers later pummeled the Alabama Crimson Tide 38-3 in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal. His beloved Hoosiers went on to win the program’s first-ever National Championship in school history. “That was a great day to be a Hoosier,” Smith reflected. Interestingly enough, his golfing group had decided to play a team game on this particular day where you don’t keep score. Except for marking a one at hole 4, Smith’s score card was blank. For Smith it was fitting that his hole-in-one feat happened with these three players, who try to golf together once a month when their work schedules allow, and refer to themselves as ‘the four horsemen.’ Smith acknowledged that for him playing the game is mostly about the social aspect and good-natured ribbing. He described himself as “terrible at golf,” and is happy if he shoots in the high 80s. “I’m not good.” To put it in perspective, you’re more likely to be struck by lightning in your lifetime than to make a hole-in-one. The odds are astronomical: 1 in 12,500 per shot on a par-3. Many golfers play their whole lives and never get one; some lucky souls get multiple. “It just takes one good shot to get you back on the course after 20 bad ones,” Smith added. Nothing But Cup Mic Smith makes hole-in-one to tee off the new year By Colin McCandless Isle of Palms resident Mic Smith raises his arms in jubilation after sinking a hole-in-one at the Links Course on New Year’s Day. Mic Smith poses with his golf ball next to the cup at hole 4 on the Links Course at Wild Dunes, where he hit a hole-in-one on New Year’s Day. Photos courtesy of Fred Rindge POINT, SCAN, CLICK Discover the Carolina Coast www.ExploreCoastalCarolina.com
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