FIRST RESPONDERS FIGHT FOR BETTER WAGES See Page 6 Photo by Rachel Basye Vol.4 Issue 4 April 2026 To read digitally, visit ReadIslandVibes.com The conversation continues at IsleOfPalmsPodcast.com LONGTIME PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR DONNIE PITTS RETIRES See Page 6 STATE FUNDS KEEP BEACH EROSION AT BAY See Page 5 DON'T WORRY, BE HOPPY SPIRIT OF THE ISLAND AWARD See Page X WATER QUALITY STUDY See Page X See Page 3 TOUGH AS NAISH See Page 22 See Page 7 Egg- Times citing
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IslandVibesIOP.com 3 NEWS ‘Goodwill ambassador’ Spangler honored with Spirit of the Island Award posthumously By L. C. Leach III “Very knowledgeable, responsive and honest. We have bought and sold over 20 homes and never experienced the quality of service that Andrea provided” “...extremely helpful in making recommendations to get our house market-ready. With her suggestions for home improvements, our house sold in a week at the high end of market value.” 843.532.3010 - AndreaRogers1@gmail.com CALL ANDREA ROGERS SOUTHERN PROFESSIONALISM A way of life, The way to be The island’s next July Fourth, Labor Day, Halloween and Christmas season won’t be quite the same as in years past because the smile, handshake, hug and feel-good influence of longtime resident Dudley Spangler will be missing. His untimely death last autumn left a notable, hard-to-replace void in the community – so much so that he was posthumously honored with the Spirit of the Island Award for his unflagging, independent citizen support of Isle of Palms police, firefighters and public service workers. The presentation to his wife Glenda took place on Feb. 24 at the city council meeting and received a standing ovation from all in attendance. “While these dedicated public service servants spent their holidays away from their families to keep ours safe, Dudley and his family stepped in to make sure they were never forgotten,” said IOP Fire Chief Craig Oliverius. IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds added, “Dudley was always quick to show support whether it was cooking meals for the teams or just stopping by with an encouraging word.” Spangler becomes only the sixth recipient of the award since its inception in 2022 to recognize an individual’s or organization’s remarkable singular achievement, community service or volunteer efforts to benefit the island. The formal recognition came two months after his nomination by former IOP Mayor Jimmy Carroll, who said Spangler was not only a dependable friend going back to his time on the city council in 2011, but a perennial “community morale booster.” “He helped cook hot dogs, hamburgers, etc., on the Fourth of July for well over a decade for our public safety personnel and also organized and cooked an annual Thanksgiving feast,” Carroll recounted. “He made them feel like they were part of the community, which I wish more people would do.” Longtime Councilman Jimmy Ward, who created the Spirit of the Island Award, said that while Spangler was most visible to city employees, other residents felt his care as well. “He would go around and see elderly people to see how they were – he thought of others before he thought of himself.” “Hurricane Hugo in 1989 took out almost all of our palm trees and so citizens started a Plant-A-Palm initiative,” Carroll said. “I donated 15 oaks to the city in the early 2020s and Dudley promised to donate one. Glenda called me after he died and said she still wanted to give the tree that Dudley promised. So, in a way, he is still here and standing by his commitment postmortem, which we didn’t expect. He was like a goodwill ambassador for Isle of Palms. I miss him and I miss the kind of example he set for the island.” While family and friends still expect to see Spangler when they round a corner or hear his voice the next time their phones ring, Carroll pointed out that while Dudley’s passing “caught everyone by surprise,” his presence is still being felt as if it was trying to complete unfinished business on a promise. Spangler becomes sixth recipient of honor. Dudley Spangler (far right) alongside a few of the island's public safety workers, who he long supported.
IslandVibesIOP.com 4 the plastic eggs. He wasn’t too happy though when he found out they were filled with sand and not peanut butter. We put all of our eggs in one basket – literally and metaphorically – and it paid off hoppily! Island Vibes Vol. 4, Issue 4 April 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 RACHEL BASYE COOPERRIVERPHOTOGRAPHY@GMAIL.COM 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 KIMBERLYN NAYLOR • PHILLIP POUNDS SARAH ROSE • KRISTI SELLERS SALES REPRESENTATIVES STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@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 From the Publisher Community comes first HugoMagazine.com About the Cover Hoppily ever after By Zach Giroux Editor’s Note Farewell my friends… It's with a heavy heart and bittersweet emotions that this will be my last issue as the managing editor of Island Vibes. After three glorious years of building this newspaper from the ground up, I’m proud to say this has been one of the greatest endeavors of my journalistic career. Although it saddens me to be leaving one of the most beloved publications I’ve ever managed, it’s reassuring to know that the brand we’ve built and the team around it will carry on the positive vibes to which our readers have become accustomed. There’s no ‘I’ in team, but there is in IOP, and let me tell you this publication takes an island of people to breathe life into these pages. In Happy Easter! For our April cover, our production crew at Island Vibes made a colorful decision to veer off the traditional path of Easter egg hunts and take a more egg-citing approach. Our original game plan was to invite the Easter Bunny to our photoshoot, but he came down with a last-minute illness. No worries, folks, it was just bad allergies caused by all of the “yellow snow” (pollen) in the air. We needed a backup plan, so our photographer Rachel Basye called in a addition to our wonderful staff, readers and advertisers, I’d personally like to thank all of the locals for their unwavering support and passion for our community. Before I depart on my next editorial adventure, I’d like to name a few people, places and things I’m going to miss the most: • Brainstorming and bickering at team meetings • Planning and executing out-ofthe-box photoshoots • Delivering the paper hot off the press • Seeing the smile on a resident’s face when they read the paper • Shaking hands with a business owner who advertises • Celebrating the launch of a new issue at our island socials Let’s raise our glasses and cheers to the written word, all things journalism and the pursuit of a story worth telling. Onward through the fray! Positively yours, Zach Giroux Editor In my book every issue of Island Vibes is special. It’s special for many reasons; top of that list is community and second is positivity. Speaking of community, last week Island Vibes was working on getting this issue to the printer and I received a phone call from a friend. He told me about Naish, the son of a mutual friend, who lives in Wild Dunes and recently passed from multiple myeloma. Everyone at Island Vibes embraced the idea of telling Naish’s story even though we were almost ready to go to press. 'To know Naish is to love him;' thanks to our lovely storyteller Laura Fogarty and the Island Vibes publishing family, you can get to know him too. Read his story on Page 22. There are a good number of island residents who did not experience living through Hurricane Hugo. When talking to the Isle of Palms Recreation Center about the upcoming IOP Hurricane and Resilience Expo, see Page 16, we touched on the more you know about hurricanes, what to do and how to do it, the safer you’ll be. That’s what the Hurricane and Resilience Expo is all about by teaching attendees the best way to prepare, protect our properties and the entire community. To better understand the destruction a hurricane can cause, visit www.HugoMagazine.com. This is the time of year I always remember what a vacationer said to me one time when I asked “What was the best thing about Isle of Palms?” Their response: “The locals.” Positively yours, Bill Macchio Publisher four-legged favor from her fur child Cooper – a precious 11-year-old chocolate lab-pit mix. Although he had a bum ankle and wore an adorable little boot for support, Cooper had no issue opening up Photo by Rachel Basye
IslandVibesIOP.com 5 NEWS State funding buys more time for long-term beach erosion solutions By L. C. Leach III Efforts to battle beach erosion on Isle of Palms are expected to get two major boosts – one immediate and one by late spring. On the table is a $1.52 million grant from the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT). The grant money will go toward the city’s major beach renourishment project this summer to place sand in three critical areas: Mariner’s Walk to Ocean Point at the far eastern end; Grand Pavilion to Beach Club in front of Sweetgrass Inn; and Breach Inlet to 14th Avenue on the far western side, where the sand loss rate is highest. The grant will offset the cost of the project, currently set at $32 million, and city leaders are anticipating more. “We have requested a total of $5.3 million in state grants,” said IOP City Public Information Officer Joshua Uys. “When we select a bidder, we will be able to confirm the total cost.” Whether the city receives all requested funding depends on what becomes available in the next fiscal year. “While SCPRT does not currently have those funds available, applying for the full funding need will allow the current grant to be amended and the award amount increased if SCPRT receives additional funding in the FY 26-27 Appropriations Act,” said Justin E. Hancock, director of Recreation, Grants and Policy with SCPRT. So far, this is SCPRT’s third grant to IOP for beach renourishment, including one from 2017 and another in 2023. Sand for the 2026 project will be dredged from an offshore borrow site about 2 miles southeast of the Island Pier. Once begun, the new renourishment enterprise is expected to place up to 2.2 million cubic yards of sand – enough to fill nearly 673 Olympic-sized swimming pools – along 19,200 linear feet of beach and involves construction of a dune and berm. Work is expected to last from June to September, during which time IOP City could be awarded the rest of the requested grant. “Through these grants, the state matches dollar-for-dollar with local governments for renourishment projects on publicly accessible beaches,” Hancock said, pointing out that healthy beaches are one of the most vital parts of the South Carolina economy. “The state’s five coastal counties account for roughly two-thirds of visitor spending in the state, and the state’s beaches are a primary driver for visitation for target markets in the U.S., as well as abroad.” To this end, IOP City Council has taken a further step to prevent beach erosion by contracting with Foth|Olsen, a full-service science and engineering firm out of Jacksonville, Florida, to provide an alternative beach analysis, with the goal of extending the lifespan of the beach renourishment project. The firm will work alongside the city’s principal beach consultant and project manager, Coastal Science & Engineering of Columbia, South Carolina. “Foth|Olsen was only engaged in February 2026,” Uys said. “They have 90 days from that engagement to present their alternatives analysis to the city.” A presentation of findings and recommendations are expected to be ready by the May 26 council meeting. In the meantime, on recommendations from the Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee, council members are considering several new island beach policies, including: • Becoming a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) managed beach. • Accelerating and increasing the frequency of large-scale dredging beach nourishment projects from every 10 years to every eight years. • Coordinating construction of large-scale nourishment projects on both unstabilized inlet zones to occur at the same time. • Hiring one full-time employee tasked with overseeing resilience efforts, including beach management. This item is included in the draft FY26 budget, with the next step entailing developing a job description before beginning the hiring process. • Establishing property owners’ responsibilities for maintaining the dune system within private property, based on a model currently in use by Folly Beach. In a Sea Level Rise Adaptation proposal made to IOP City in 2023 by both CSE and Weston & Sampson environmental engineers of Charleston, it was noted in part: “If the average increase in sea level rise rates from 1930 to 2020 holds steady, 2 to 3 feet of sea level rise are possible by 2100.” But CSE President Steven Traynum sees hopeful signs, such as the large shoal/sandbar forming in front of Wild Dunes that is already adding sand to the beach. “We've seen mixed outcomes with the available management approaches,” Traynum said in late 2025. “But the shoal has fully attached to the beach and is now allowing sand to spread to areas that have been highly erosional, including Beachwood East and the area near the Seascape and Ocean Club condos.” But the ultimate question of course is: Will these efforts work or will they ultimately be overruled by natural forces? A question in which only Father Time knows the answer to. Beachwood East beach before shoal began attaching. Beachwood East beach after shoal began attaching.
market they’re comparing us to has already moved.” The Firefighters’ Association said the solution is to start firefighters at $25 an hour. Smith said while this may seem like a big increase on paper, many of the hidden costs tied to turnover – overtime, rookie training, equipment, bunker gear and onboarding – would turn into savings “if we could retain experienced firefighters instead of constantly replacing them.” When asked what he thought would happen if the starting pay doesn’t increase enough to keep firefighters for longer than they are staying now, Smith said, “we’re already seeing the consequences.” “We just lost three people to Colleton County for a $30,000 pay raise,” Smith added. “So if we continue to do what we have done in the past, the same flawed results and attrition rates are going to keep happening. The real question becomes: How many lives saved or how much property protected does it take to justify that investment?” 6 IslandVibesIOP.com Wage study raises concerns over public safety pay, retention rates By L. C. Leach III Pitts calls it a career after keeping IOP streets clean for near quarter-century By L. C. Leach III NEWS When the new year began, Isle of Palms police and firefighters were hoping for new incentives to keep qualified personnel and hopefuls retained for the long haul. So far, those hopes have hit a standstill and concerns regarding competitive pay and turnover rates among public safety personnel have heightened. “Just this year alone, eight firefighters in our department have asked me to write letters of recommendation so they can apply to other departments,” said IOPFD Battalion Chief and South Carolina State Firefighters Association President Jason Smith. “The city often says that its employees are its most valued resource, but right now many employees feel like the actions we’re seeing don’t always support that statement.” Firefighters addressed these and other concerns regarding retention and recruitment struggles to 20 residents on March 1 during a town hall meeting at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club. “We are very grateful to the people who took time away from their families and busy schedules to come and listen,” Smith said. “Our goal was simple: we just want to be heard.” Part of being heard involved citing several vital facts: • IOPFD members not only fight fires, but serve as first responders for emergency medical care, hazardous material threats and personal rescues when necessary. • In 2025 through November, IOPFD had a turnover rate of 30% – higher than 2019, 2020 and 2021 combined. To help retain more firefighters and police, the city council approved this past September a wage and compensation study through Evergreen & Associates – a public sector consulting firm in Tallahassee, Florida – to keep both departments competitive for qualified public safety professionals. For example, the starting pay for new IOP firefighters is $49,000. This salary is based on 2,912 hours per year – 800 more per year than a normal 40-hour work week. Using these hours, Evergreen suggested moving starting firefighter pay to $53,045 – about $18.17 an hour. “And from our perspective, that simply isn’t competitive,” Smith said. “The data Evergreen used was based on numbers from other departments last year and many of those same departments received significant pay increases this past January. So the The next time healthcare executives experience a surge in employee turnover, they might consider consulting Donnie Pitts for a solution. Pitts is retiring this spring after 23 years as director of Isle of Palms Public Works. In all that time with him at the helm, the department has never had to fire or replace a single worker due to malcontent, job inefficiency, incompatibility or a career change. “We’ve had some retirements and one death due to COVID,” said Pitts, whose last official day will be May 5. “But of all the accomplishments and the changes we’ve implemented in the last two decades, the near-zero turnover rate in our department is the thing I am most proud of.” And that’s saying something, considering the increased scope of duties and expectations that residents and city leaders have come to expect from Pitts’ crews in the last decade. For example, when Pitts started as director in 2003, he had many of the same duties he has now: picking up household trash and yard debris; maintaining a fleet of vehicles; managing stormwater runoff and maintaining all the city’s beaches, green spaces and rights of way. Pitts also oversees the staff, develops an annual budget and keeps up with the island’s commercial contracts. Additionally, in times of routine island emergencies, such as hurricane weather, king tides and flooding, Pitts and his team are called on to clear inundated roads for safe and expedient passage, repair damaged storm drains and ensure that sewer systems are either working properly or fixed as soon as possible. But the difference now, Pitts said, is the growth of these duties. In July 2025, his team of 11 picked up a monthly high of 360 tons of household garbage – 70 tons more than in 2023. That’s for a population of approximately 4,400 residents, with a good chance of this number increasing another 300 tons by 2035. With visitors now numbering as many as 20,000 per day at the height of the summer season, it’s a daily race for Pitts and the team to meet the rising demand for their services and keep the island’s environment clean and healthy. If this all sounds like too much to handle, Pitts said it’s just all in a day’s work because of the relationship and trust that team members have. “The management style of friendship with staff and also knowing the supervisor role as well is critical,” he said. “Treating all of the staff as adults and allowing them to successfully complete their assignments without micromanaging is a main reason for our employee longevity.” When asked why he is leaving, Pitts simply said it’s time. “My career goal and plan was 25 years of service to retirement age,” he said. “And if there is one thing I would like to pass on to my successor, it’s that every situation, event, storm is different. And you must adjust to the real-time, unique circumstances that require different solutions to those issues.” Isle of Palms Public Works Director Donnie Pitts retires after 23 years.
7 IslandVibesIOP.com Water quality study proves dog waste is main source of contamination By Laura Lovins IOP Environmental Advisory Committee Chair Wellness by the Sea Regenerative Medicine & Aesthetics Board-certified medical professionals that offer personalized state-of-the-art treatments for face & body. WE DESIGN A PLAN FOR YOUR UNIQUE NEEDS. TRUST THE EXPERTS. Lasers, toxins, facials, weight loss and more. REQUEST YOUR PERSONALIZED CONSULTATION IN A SERENE ENVIRONMENT. 843.894.0955 YoungerYoustudio.com 1022 Carolina Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC Concerns about water quality on Isle of Palms first emerged in the late 1990s, when elevated fecal coliform levels were detected in drainage ditches. In 2000, city council paused a proposed septic tank ordinance after residents and officials questioned whether the contamination came from human waste or from animals. Without clear evidence, council chose to pursue scientific testing. With support from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), IOP initiated a federally funded water quality study. PHASE I (2002) DHEC sampled 15 locations across the island, including drainage outfalls and open water areas. All samples were analyzed for fecal coliform, and select locations were also tested for nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. PHASE II (2002–2003) Follow-up testing focused on areas with higher contamination. Advanced DNA analysis was used to determine whether fecal coliform came from human or animal sources. KEY FINDINGS: • Human-source contamination was limited and localized, primarily near the Forest Trail outfall • Human waste accounted for only about 20% of fecal coliform at that site • Less than 10% of samples from open waters showed human sources • Approximately 70% of contamination was traced to domestic and wild animals • Based on these results, human sewage issues were ruled out. RENEWED TESTING (2024–2025) Over time, increased housing development with septic systems, stronger storms and frequent flooding renewed concerns about water quality. In response, the city’s Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) initiated a new baseline study in 2024. 2024 BASELINE STORMWATER STUDY During a rain event, eight stormwater outfalls across the island were sampled and tested for a variety of contaminants, including fecal coliform. RESULTS: Three outfalls showed elevated “levels of concern:”* 1. 25th Avenue – extremely high nitrogen levels, suggesting runoff pollution 2. 36th Avenue/Forest Trail – elevated nitrogen, phosphorus and suspended solids 3. Myrtle Avenue – elevated phosphorus and sediment This study established a new baseline for additional testing. DNA TESTING OF HIGH-CONCERN AREAS (2025) To determine whether human waste was contributing to contamination, the city conducted targeted DNA testing at the three highest-concern residential outfalls. Samples were collected under both dry-weather and rain-event conditions and screened for E. coli. When bacteria levels were high enough, DNA testing was performed to identify sources. RESULTS: • DNA analysis detected dog waste only • No human-source E. coli was found in any sample, including during heavy rainfall • The likely sources were domestic pets, wild animals or a combination of both WHAT THE STUDIES SHOW • Two comprehensive testing efforts — conducted more than 20 years apart — reached the same conclusion: • Human waste was not found in outfalls on Isle of Palms • Animal waste, primarily from dogs, is the main source of fecal contamination NEXT STEPS The EAC plans to retest island outfalls in two years to evaluate changes following a pet waste education and cleanup initiative with Doody Calls planned for 2026. Additional attention will be given to marsh health, recognizing the importance of these ecosystems to the island’s environmental well-being. Protecting water quality is a shared responsibility. Cleaning up after pets can make a measurable difference. *“Level of concern” refers to contaminant concentrations exceeding recommended environmental guidelines. OPINION
IslandVibesIOP.com 8 CIVICS Mayor’s Message Sand is fuel source for SC beach tourism By Phillip Pounds, Mayor, 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 Spring is coming and hopefully so is warmer weather! I don’t know about you, but after what felt like a long winter, I promised myself I will not complain in August when it is 95 degrees with 95% humidity! Some great events are coming up in our community. I hope you can take part in some or all of what our staff works so hard to bring to you. Please use iop.net for information and updates about what is happening this month and for future events. Recently the board of the South Carolina Beach Advocates, which I chair, spent the day in Columbia meeting with various stakeholders to advocate for a consistent annual state funding source for beach preservation, as well as to offer proposals that increase the flexibility of our municipalities to raise revenue. By ensuring multiple funding pathways, South Carolina can ensure the long-term health, resilience and prosperity of our state’s beaches. We met with Lt. Gov. Pam Evette; chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee Bruce Bannister; director of the Department of Environmental Services Myra Reece; and the SCDOT and were introduced on the Senate and House floor by local representatives. It was a long day, but well worth the time. South Carolina’s beaches are the backbone of the state’s tourism economy, generating nearly $24 billion a year and supporting tens of thousands of jobs. Every $1 the state invests in beach nourishment returns over $1,200 in economic activity and $250 in taxes, while also protecting our coast from storms. Sand is the fuel for South Carolina beach tourism. Beach nourishment has worked very well here to maintain wide, sandy beaches for tourism and storm protection. Protecting our beaches means protecting one of South Carolina’s greatest assets. If you happen to be having conversations with any of our state representatives or feel compelled to contact them, please help support our efforts and the need for sustainable state-level support for our coastal communities. Thank you for the opportunity to serve! Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net
IslandVibesIOP.com 9 SPRING BREAK RULE BREAKERS And then there’s the youth movement. A noticeable uptick in juvenile-related offenses suggests that spring break may have arrived early – or perhaps never left. From possession charges to noise complaints and the occasional “we didn’t think anyone would notice,” younger visitors came in hot and stayed consistent. Let’s just say if poor decisions were a sport, we’d be hosting regionals. NOISE COMPLAINTS PLAYING ON REPEAT Rounding out the chart-toppers were 15-20 noise violations, both founded and unfounded. Whether it’s music, fireworks or someone passionately explaining why they’re “definitely not being loud,” the calls keep coming. Unfounded noise complaints deserve special recognition because sometimes the only thing louder than the party is the complaint about the party. QUESTIONABLE LIFE DECISIONS Sprinkled throughout the report were a handful of assaults, fraud cases, trespass notices and even animal cruelty, proving that while the island may specialize in a few categories, it still offers a full-service menu of questionable life decisions. FINAL THOUGHTS? So what have we learned? Marijuana is still popular. Very popular. DUI and DUS are locked in a never-ending rematch. Noise complaints will outlive us all. And spring break … is apparently a state of mind. As we roll into the next reporting period, we fully expect more of the same. Because on the Isle of Palms, every day is Groundhog Day and Punxsutawney Phil just found a bag of paraphernalia in the glove box. CRIME SPRING BREAK IS A STATE OF MIND FOR LAWLESS LOSERS 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 with comedic exaggeration. CARS DON’T RUN ON BOOZE If this were a buddy comedy, it would be called “Driving Under the Influence & Driving Under Suspension: Still Not Learning.” DUI arrests made multiple appearances this month, often accompanied by supporting actors like “open container,” “broken seal” and the always ambitious “uninsured vehicle.” Nothing says confidence like mixing alcohol, a vehicle and paperwork you definitely don’t have. DOUBLE TROUBLE Meanwhile, driving under suspension continues to be the island’s version of “double down.” License suspended? No problem – just keep driving. First offense, second offense … at this point, it’s less of a mistake and more of a lifestyle choice. One might think that after the first suspension, folks would pivot. Maybe take an Uber. Maybe call a friend. Maybe not. If this report feels familiar, that’s because it is. Like Bill Murray waking up to “I Got You Babe,” Isle of Palms has once again rolled out its greatest hits album: marijuana, bad driving decisions and noise complaints that somehow always peak right when someone says, “Let’s keep it low-key tonight.” Yes, folks, it’s Groundhog Day on the island. Again. Over this reporting period, officers logged a hefty stack of incidents, led overwhelmingly by 40-plus drug and alcohol-related offenses. And before you ask – yes, marijuana remains the undisputed MVP. Whether it’s simple possession, first offense or “I swear that’s not mine,” it continues to be the unofficial beach souvenir of choice. Close behind, the island delivered 30-plus traffic violations, because nothing pairs better with poor decision-making than a motor vehicle. Which brings us to our recurring headliners: Stay safe. Or at least, slightly less predictable.
IslandVibesIOP.com 10 COMMUNITY Good Tunes by the Dunes IOP Songwriters Festival to eclipse $10K donations By Sarah Rose Polar Plunge propels SC Special Olympics up to $685K donations statewide By Sarah Rose As an award-winning professional musician whose career has spanned 33 years, Dave Landeo has performed with many bands as a lead vocalist, bassist, rhythm and lead guitarist and drummer and has created a repertoire of over 500 cover songs, 10 albums and several digital singles, all of which he has written himself. With a twin passion for giving back to the community, Landeo conceptualized a fundraising festival that would bring local, regional and national songwriters together to benefit local charities. In 2023, he launched the first Isle of Palms Songwriters Festival with six musicians. Over the last three years, the event’s roster has more than doubled to 15 performers between the ages of 20 and 80 who represent a range of genres such as country, bluegrass, beach reggae, pop, hard rock, folk, alternative rock and funk. Landeo has also added a marketplace with several vendors. To date, the festival has raised $9,924.45 that’s been divided among three charitable groups, including Lowcountry Orphan Relief, Girls on the Run Coastal South Carolina and the Lowcountry Music Scholarship. This year's headliner is Matt Rogers, a country artist and songwriter from Landeo’s hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, who has opened for talent such as Chris Stapleton and Brothers Osborne. Additional artists in the line-up include Doug Walters, Dave Mauk, David Perry, Molly Durnin, Bob Tobin, Tim Styles, Ed Hunnicutt, Bob Bedell, Thomas Champagne, Danielle Howe, Isabella Colletta, Maralin Russell, The Fiori and Jaycob Kendrick. Landeo added that without his wife Christy, along with Greg Norton who coordinates all of the logistics including audio, engineering, lighting and staging, the show would not go on. He also credited event sponsors Bret Jones, owner of The Dinghy, Rusty’s Cool Guitars, MPS Construction, Andrea Rogers Realtor, Lauren Zurilla & Associates, HOMEstretch: Charleston, Smuggler’s, Landeo Music Productions, Magus Productions, Surfside, Seaside Surface Solutions, Charleston Apparel, The Windjammer and of course, Island Vibes, for their immense help behind the scenes. According to Landeo, the bulk of the fundraising comes from selling raffle tickets with prizes donated from local businesses. He expressed gratitude to The Windjammer, Red’s Icehouse, Legendary Outfitter LLC, Sunsets Waterside, Susan Matthews Realtor, D3 Dentistry, Jack’s Cosmic Dogs, M & N Stories, The Outpost, Charleston Fun Park, The Beach House and Mainland Container Co. for their contributions. This year’s celebration will be held on Saturday, April 11, in the parking lot at The Dinghy, located at 8 JC Long Blvd., from 2-9 p.m. The festival is free and open to the public and is children and dog-friendly. Food and beverages are available for purchase from The Dinghy. Landeo suggested bringing beach chairs and wearing dancing shoes. The event happens rain or shine. For updates, follow IOPSongwritersFestival on Facebook and @iopsongwritersfestival on Instagram. To inquire about becoming a vendor or to pre-purchase a collectable T-shirt or VIP tickets with access to special seating, call Landeo at (865) 414-8315, email ddlandeo@msn.com or visit the event website at isleofpalmssongwritersfestival.com. On Feb. 28, the Isle of Palms Police Department (IOPPD), along with the Mount Pleasant Police Department (MPPD), hosted the 11th annual Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics South Carolina (SOSC), the nonprofit that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for more than 30,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This year’s Polar Plunge raised $58,994 locally from the sale of Polar Plunge merchandise such as long-sleeved T-shirts and beanies, along with donations and a suggested $50 registration fee. The IOPPD was the top fundraising team on the island, contributing $6,715 of the profits. Officer Ned Donovan, who raised the bulk of those funds with $4,955, earned the “Coolest Cop Award.” Of the 1,000 community members who gathered on the beach to support the nonprofit, more than 100 brave individuals plunged into the wintry waters of the Atlantic. One such participant was Lt. Donald Calabrese of the MPPD, who reported that since the launch of the first Isle of Palms Polar Plunge in 2016, local law enforcement has raised $423,495 from this event. For 2026, the 14 participating police departments across the state brought in $684,993 collectively. One hundred percent of the proceeds are donated to the Special Olympics athletes. “We couldn’t do it without The Windjammer, the official home of the Isle of Palms Polar Plunge,” Calabrese said. He added that each year during the festivities, local, county and state police officers and sheriffs, veterans, as well as Special Olympics athletes come Continued on Page 11.
IslandVibesIOP.com 11 COMMUNITY Study offers free drinks to assist police DUI training By Sarah Rose From Feb. 16-19, instructors certified in DUI Enforcement from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy led an initial certification training at the Isle of Palms Police Department that was attended by six officers from around the state. Sgt. Matthew R. Storen, who oversees the Criminal Investigations Division as public information officer for the Isle of Palms Police Department, said the three-day class equipped officers to administer the Standardized Field Sobriety Test for impaired driving. Part of the course focused on standardized field sobriety testing, during which officers studied in “wet labs,” a controlled environment where they observed the range of behavior of volunteers who were sober, just at the limit of intoxication or well over the blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08%. Throughout this exercise, officers conducted a battery of tests, one of which is the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, which fieldsobrietytests.org describes as a “medical term used to describe the involuntary jerking of the eyeballs. When someone is intoxicated by alcohol and/or certain drugs, this jerking becomes more pronounced.” Law enforcement agents use the HGN to evaluate an individual’s nystagmus in order to determine if probable cause exists for an impaired-driving arrest. Storen explained that the reason for this test is so that officers will know the difference between an individual who is driving under the influence of alcohol, depressants or inhalants or someone who may have a medical issue such as an inner ear disorder, which can also cause nystagmus. Officers in training also learned another component of the testing process, known as the “walk and turn,” when a driver must stand on one leg while alternating between balancing and hopping. Additionally, trainees were educated on how to arrest drivers who are under the influence and to administer a breath sample. Storen said that failure to comply results in an automatic six-month suspension of the driver’s license, a DUI charge and additional hoops such as court costs, fines, an increase in or cancellation of insurance, lawyer fees and administrative charges with the DMV to get the license back. With this being spring break season, he reminded drivers to “Never get behind the wheel of a vehicle or golf cart if you’re under the influence. Everyone needs to have a safe alternative plan such as a designated driver, a ride share, cab, Uber or Lyft. Sometimes even roadside assistance will pick you and your car up.” Despite this multitude of options, DUI numbers are on the rise on the island, due in part to an increase in population, according to Storen. He said that in 2023, police arrested 107 individuals on the Isle of Palms for driving under the influence. In 2024, there were 126 arrests and as of November 2025, there were 74 with holiday figures yet to be factored in. As such, the department has increased their staff and the newly certified officers are patrolling the streets, keeping the roads safe by looking for impaired drivers. out to cheer for participants. There is also a costume contest with awards for the most creative outfits, a live adaptive dance performance by the Unified Hip Hop team and coffee donated by local cafes. Calabrese encouraged residents and visitors to save the date for the next Polar Plunge in 2027, which will be held on Feb. 27, the last Saturday of the month. “We can always use more community support to raise awareness and involvement,” he said. Some ways to get involved at a deeper level are to register with a team of friends, family, neighbors or co-workers and reach out to the department with any additional ideas that will help raise money and awareness. Polar Plunge From Page 10. This summer, the department is launching new social media accounts exclusively for the Isle of Palms Polar Plunge with up-to-date specifics. In the meantime, visit so-sc.org and contact Special Olympics South Carolina directly with questions. Throughout the year, the IOPPD and MPPD will be popping up around town to spread the word about the Special Olympics and to raise funds by selling T-shirts and collecting donations. The athletes attend these events as well to share stories about their sports and medals, along with a message of acceptance and inclusivity. Look for them at Top Golf, College of Charleston basketball games, Dunkin’ Donuts in Mount Pleasant, Jersey Mike’s and other locations.
IslandVibesIOP.com 12 The beauty of the Lowcountry is undeniable no matter the occasion. Whether you are heading to the Isle of Palms for a relaxing beach day, window shopping or exploring local historical sites, the hours pass easily. As much as there is to see, getting around during the busy summer months is nearly guaranteed to be a time consuming commitment. If you're trying to see it all in a day or if your feet simply aren't built for endless walking — Rad Rydz has a new solution to provide you with a front row seat to the island’s charm. Already a trusted name in the community, Rad Rydz has built a reputation for turning everyday golf carts into fully upgraded, street-ready rides. Now, they're taking it one step visitors alike with an easy, flexible way to travel around the Lowcountry; this new service gives customers access to reliable, well-maintained carts without the commitment of ownership. Each cart comes fully equipped with the latest tech: gps-enabled dashboards, bluetooth speakers for your favorite playlists, usb charging ports, insulated coolers, and sleek, weather-resistant seating to keep your comfort a top priority. Renting is simple too. No matter how spontaneous your outing is, Rad Rydz offers a seamless online reservation system to rent on-demand. Simply scan the QR code on the windshield, select rental duration, and you’re off without any hassle. The carts are sanitized, fully charged and ready to go. The next time you want to cruise around town, consider skipping traditional options and hop in a rental instead to hit the road in style with ease. Skip the walk and rent the raddest ride on the island By Allyah Harrar COMMUNITY FAST AND SIMPLE ON OUR APP For more information or to make a reservation: Email: rentals@RadRydz.com or call 843-718-9408 radrydz.com GOLF CART RENTALS RENT YOUR CART WITH CONFIDENCE Whether you are on vacation, planning a wedding, or have a commercial event, we can meet your every need! We offer 4 and 6-seat options, each includes a premium sound system, storage, cooler and on-board charging for an easy and pleasant rental experience. farther by extending that same attention to detail and quality to LSV rentals. Built to provide locals and Rad Rydz isn't the average golf cart dealership. They also specialize in refurbishing old carts into stylish rides.
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IslandVibesIOP.com 15 We thank you for shopping our store and for supporting our small business. Centrally and conveniently located in Mt. Pleasant. mywbu.com/mtpleasant 1117 Market Center Blvd., Suite 101, Mt Pleasant, SC Formally known as IOP Residential LEARN MORE AT CROWNCOAST.COM 843-886-9600 carrollrealtyinc.com WE ARE YOUR ISLAND EXPERTS We will mail you POSITIVE VIBES anywhere in the U.S. POINT•SCAN•SUBSCRIBE Keep a piece of Isle of Palms with you no matter where you live. POINT•SCAN•SUBSCRIBE DINGHYIOP.COM 843.242.8310 4 3 iopizzaco.com | 843-242-8121 10 11 5
IslandVibesIOP.com 16 Hurricane Expo to help residents prepare, give away free gear Staff Report The City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department, IOP Fire Department and LENS Foundation IOP will team up to host a Hurricane & Resilience Expo on Thursday, May 7, from 4-7 p.m. The event will be held at the IOP Recreation Center outside under the oaks and will feature: • Hurricane prep tips and evacuation route updates • City services displays and information • Safety vehicle displays • Environmental and sustainability educational booths and displays • Specialty vendors • Food trucks • Live music • Family-friendly activities Additionally, the IOP Police Department will give away a hurricane kit to one lucky winner during the event. Registration is free and at the event only. For more information, contact Tammy Cox at 854-837-2331 or tcox@iop.net. COMMUNITY
IslandVibesIOP.com 17 FOOD & BEVERAGE • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley • Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS Place fish on a baking sheet. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt and pepper. Drizzle over fish and roast at 400 F for 12-15 minutes until flaky. Recipe inspired by traditional roasted fish recipes and those found on allrecipes.com. STRAWBERRY MOJITO Nothing says spring like fresh strawberries, and this easy strawberry mojito is perfect for warm afternoons on the porch. INGREDIENTS • 2-3 fresh strawberries, sliced • 6-8 fresh mint leaves • 1 tablespoon sugar (or simple syrup) • 1 ounce fresh lime juice Flavors of the Month Spring snacking by the seashore By Kristi Sellers COASTAL CRAB QUICHE Spring brunches feel right at home on the island. This crab quiche highlights the seafood that defines our way of cooking. INGREDIENTS • 1 prepared pie crust • 1 cup lump crab meat • 4 eggs • 1 cup half-and-half • ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese • 2 green onions, chopped • Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 375 F. Whisk eggs and half-and-half together, then stir in crab, cheese and green onions. Season lightly. Pour mixture into the pie crust and bake for 35-40 minutes until set. Recipe inspired by various quiche recipes and those found on allrecipes.com. LEMON HERB ROASTED FISH Spring is the best time for simple seafood dishes like delicate fish and traditional herbs. INGREDIENTS • 4 white fish fillets (your choice) • 2 ounces white rum • Club soda • Ice DIRECTIONS In a glass, muddle strawberries, mint and sugar until fragrant. Add lime juice and rum, then fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda and stir gently. Garnish with a strawberry or mint sprig. Inspired by traditional mojito recipes and those found on allrecipes.com. Spring on the island encourages meals that unfold slowly, those where plates are passed across patio tables, drinks clink in the warm air and conversations drift along with the sound of the waves. With fresh seafood, colorful vegetables and sparkling drinks, these recipes celebrate the simple pleasures of the season. Coastal Crab Quiche Strawberry Mojito Lemon Herb Roasted Fish Spring is arriving, bringing warmer days, blooming marsh grasses and longer evenings filled with ocean breezes. As the island shakes off the last hints of winter, kitchens begin to reflect the lighter, brighter flavors of the season. Whether you’re hosting brunch on an open patio or preparing dinner after a walk along the beach, these recipes capture the spirit of spring on our island paradise. Spill the Tea A goat walks into a bar… By Kristi Sellers Locals know there are a few places where you’re almost guaranteed to hear what’s going on before it makes its way around to the rest of the island. The Dinghy happens to be one of those places. The longtime neighborhood hangout isn’t just known for cold drinks and casual food – it’s also one of the best spots on the island to catch up on a little “tea.” Spend enough time at The Dinghy and you start to notice how the tea starts pouring in. Someone comes in straight from the beach, someone else slides onto a barstool after work and before long, conversations start bouncing from one end of the barroom to the other. News travels fast on a small island and oftentimes it passes through these doors. Whether it’s talk about a new restaurant opening, a fishing story that may or may not be exaggerated or who was seen where the night before, this beach bar has a way of turning everyday updates into pure entertainment. Meet Stacey Lee McEwan, bartender at The Dinghy. Originally from Dover, New Hampshire, she has lived here since 2002. Her parents owned a bar and that marked the beginning of her foray into the food and beverage space. McEwan’s experience took her to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, where she earned the Server of the Year Award. Missing the ocean, she returned home to the Charleston area, eventually finding herself at The Dinghy. “I just celebrated my four-year work anniversary. The Dinghy by far has been my favorite bartending job I’ve had,” said McEwan. “How could you not love it there? We are near the beach. If you listen quietly enough you can hear the waves crashing. We have live music daily, great customers and regulars and awesome food. My fellow bartenders are pretty cool too.” You can bet that McEwan has seen and heard some interesting things while tending the bar. “Every other Sunday we have an awesome musician, Mel Washington,” said McEwan. “He plays a variety of music. Lots of country and some originals. He calls it church and there is a crowd that follows him. It’s hard to get a seat outside on those nights. He is so good. Last Sunday a girl came in with a baby goat. She was carrying it around in a cute little holder. It was so small and adorable. It even got up on stage with Mel and they pretty much sang a duet together. The baby goat ‘meehhhh’ was so cute through the microphone and of course Mel’s voice is mesmerizing. It’s something you don’t see every day!” It’s part of what has kept The Dinghy in the local rotation for so long. On an island that sees plenty of visitors come and go, it’s still one of the few places where the best entertainment isn’t on a stage or a screen – it’s whatever story gets told next from across the bar. Stacey Lee McEwan
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