HISTORICAL MARKERS HOME TO IOP See Page 26 Photo by Rachel Basye YEAR IN REVIEW CITY ACHIEVEMENTS FROM 2024 (Page 3) WINTER WONDERLAND IOP GETS SNOW (Page 28) COUPLES WITH CHEMISTRY ISLAND LOVE STORIES (Page 24) NEW MARINA DOCK READY FOR PUBLIC USE See Page 8 LONGTIME IOP MAILMAN RETIRES See Page 15 To read digitally, visit ReadIslandVibes.com The conversation continues at IsleofPalmsPodcast.com Cold weather brings lovers The pride of Isle Palms, SC today, tomorrow and always. Vol.3 Issue 2 February 2025
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This growth and change has brought concerns regarding shortterm rentals, traffic management, noise levels, wildlife feeding and whether to allow residents to install seawalls on personal property. In 2025, area leaders and officials are focused on many of these concerns with plans for more roadway improvements, more environmental preservation projects and other proactive measures intended to lead to major turning points in the area’s long-term direction. To this end, here is a countdown of the IOP City’s Top 10 achievements in 2024: 10. COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENTS Items include the dog park at 29th Avenue, the annual Holiday Door Decorating Contest, professional management of IOP City’s parking plan, two new ADA-compliant beach access paths, construction of two boardwalks and an improved public beach. 9. EFFECTIVE, CONSISTENT AND TIMELY COMMUNICATIONS Sunnie, an AI-powered citizen engagement tool, was introduced by IOP City to provide residents and visitors immediate answers to online questions, make service requests, send personalized messages and get real-time alerts anytime via text and website. So far, more than 5,800 total users have engaged with Sunnie via text and the IOP website. 8. SPECIAL COMMUNITY EVENTS The IOP Recreation Department successfully planned and executed 25 programs, events and activities which included: the Isle of Paws Music Festival, IOP Beach Run, Ghostly Tide Tales, Youth Spring Break Soccer Camp, the Holiday Street Festival and the Halloween Golf Cart Parade & Carnival and a Drive-Through Haunted House. 7. MANAGING PRESSURE FROM AREA POPULATION GROWTH To help alleviate parking and traffic congestion, IOP City collaborated with the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments and the Town of Mount Pleasant to continue the seasonal operation of the CARTA beach shuttle, a free cross-county public transit service. In 2024, 703 riders used the service, a slight decrease from 2023. 6. EMPLOYEE RETENTION AND SUCCESSION PLANNING IOP City held the annual Employee Appreciation Event where employees were recognized for their longevity and service to the island. A holiday party was also held for all city employees, elected council members and volunteers who serve on boards and commissions. 5. DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS IOP City completed the Phase 3 Drainage Project at the 30th, 36th Cutting edge services that revitalize your inner & outer you Dr. Jaclyn Lanham 843.894.0955 | info@YoungerYoustudio.com www.YoungerYoustudio.com 1022 Carolina Blvd.Isle of Palms, SC 1952 Long Grove Dr. Mt. Pleasant, SC New Year, New You! Text or email to inquire about new year specials •AquaFirmeXS Facials •Microneedling •RF Microneedling •Laser •Photo Facials •Tone Texture •Acne Scar Removal •Wrinkle Reduction •Hair Restoration •Chemical Peels Financial stability tops IOP City accomplishments from 2024 By L. C. Leach III 3 IslandVibesIOP.com NEWS If you had an eyeglass portal that could show you Isle of Palms from 1925-2000, you might see the same scenes with remarkable recurrence: white sandy beaches all around, periodic hurricanes, nesting turtles and wildlife, a steadily growing number of residents and visitors and practically no such thing as traffic jams. While much of the island’s beauty and landscape remains, there have also been more noticeable changes in the last 25 years than the previous 75 combined. Island visitors now come year-round with as many 20,000 per day in peak season; ongoing beach nourishment efforts are employed to combat erosion and the growing threat of a sinking land mass. There is traffic congestion that is now too often comparable to mainland Charleston County and a population that now stands at about 4,300 – nearly four times as many people as in 1960. Continued on Page 6
Telling the story of Isle of Palms in any and all formats is what we’re all about. If you’re a regular reader, you’ve had the opportunity to read our article on the island’s first inhabitants, the Sewee Indians, and many other articles about the island’s history, which includes the first submarine ever launched (see Mary Coy’s article “History by the Sea,” Page 26). More recently our January edition featured the article “Shaping the Island: IOP’s most influential people.” Articles like these are part of the island road map showing us how Isle of Palms got to where it is today. All past issues of Island Vibes are available digitally at ReadIslandVibes. com. Google Analytics shows us that we have digital readers from around the country who access the digital version of Island Vibes. Pretty cool, right? Telling the story of Isle of Palms may start with the print and digital versions of Island Vibes, but the conversation doesn’t end there. I’m privileged to be a friend of Tommy and Bonnie Hartnett. Tommy and I just completed a two-part series on the Isle of Palms podcast (see more 4 FROM THE CREW IslandVibesIOP.com The pride of Isle Palms, SC today, tomorrow and always. Publisher’s Note From the Editor Reasons to love your community newspaper Island Vibes Vol. 3, Issue 2, February 2025 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM MANAGING EDITOR ZACH GIROUX EDITOR@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ART DIRECTOR BETHANY LONG COPY EDITOR COLIN MCCANDLESS BRAND AMBASSADOR SONYA BUCKHANNON SONYA@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM PHOTOGRAPHY RACHEL BASYE DIGITAL DIRECTOR ALLYAH HARRAR ALLYAH@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SOCIAL MEDIA SUPERVISOR ANTHONY MACCHIO SOCIALMEDIA@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER JOHANNA ROGERS JOHANNA@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM CONTRIBUTORS ISABEL ALVAREZ ARATA • RYAN BUCKHANNON MARY COY• KATIE FINCH • LAURA FOGARTY MAURICE FRAZIER • L. C. LEACH III • COLIN MCCANDLESS • KIMBERLYN NAYLOR PHILLIP POUNDS • SARAH ROSE • ALEX STONE SALES REPRESENTATIVES STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SARAH ROSE SARAH@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM PAUL SMITH PAUL@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 • PUBLIX ASHEVILLE/HENDERSON AIRPORT ALL SC WELCOME CENTERS 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 Happy Valentine’s Day! In honor of Love Month, I’ve decided to express my emotions by putting together a list of the top reasons why readers love their community newspaper. WE SERVE YOU Community newspapers care about what’s going on in your backyard. They are dedicated to covering local news, events and issues that matter to you. WE CELEBRATE YOU Community newspapers feature stories about people making a difference in your community. Whether you’re a good Samaritan or local athlete, no contribution or achievement should go unnoticed. WE HEAR YOU Community newspapers provide a platform for local residents and organizations. This is a powerful tool for your neighbors to have their voices heard on local issues. WE CONNECT YOU Community newspapers foster community involvement. They help spread the word about events in your area. Their goal is to keep you in the loop about what’s going on around you. A social community makes for a strong and healthy community. WE NEED YOU By regularly reading and advertising in your community newspaper, you're helping support local journalism. Whether it’s the print or digital publication, it’s a valuable resource for anyone who wishes to be informed. By supporting your paper, you’re strengthening democracy in your neighborhood. That being said, no two newspapers are the same just like no two hearts are the same. Thanks to our readership for all of the unconditional love. Here’s to a long-lasting and trusting relationship! Positively yours, Zach Giroux Managing Editor on Page 27). The first episode chronicled Tommy’s life and time on the Isle of Palms. We discussed his first job as a young man on the Isle of Palms. His father was a first cousin to island developer J.C. Long of The Beach Company, and Long hired Tommy to work for his business to help build a better Isle of Palms. I’ve published a lot of historic content that documents the island’s history, but this is the first podcast I’ve produced that continues that conversation, and I was excited to do it. Isle of Palms’ modern-day roots began when Long purchased a large swath of the island in 1944, a slice of history that Tommy and I discuss in the first episode. My second conversation with Tommy on the Isle of Palms podcast is about his and Bonnie’s life and time in Washington. I found our conversation interesting, and I think you will as well. For me, asking Tommy what it was like getting the opportunity to set foot in the Oval Office was a little surreal. Based on his answer, I think being in the Oval Office felt a little surreal for him, too. The island’s podcast is available on YouTube and other audio platforms like Spotify, Podcast Addict, iTunes, Audible and more. As we like to say, the conversation about Isle of Palms continues at www.IsleofPalmsPodcast.com. People around the country can access Tommy’s interview and learn about Tommy and Bonnie Hartnett’s adventures and the life they’ve lived. Thanks everyone for helping us spread positive vibes around Isle of Palms. Bill Macchio Publisher Our Youtube Channel totals for all publications: 243 Podcast Episodes | 7,570 Subscribers | 1,237,800 Impressions
In honor of Valentine’s Day, we decided to recreate a scene from arguably one of the most romantic films of all time, “The Notebook.” We didn’t have the budget for Hollywood movie stars like Ryan Gosling and Blake Lively, so we had to flip the script. No offense Nicholas Sparks. We hired the sweetest pair of lovebirds on Isle of Palms that we could find -- Billy and Lisa Lempesis. For those who don’t know their love story, I won’t spoil it (hint: read about it on Page 24). But I will give you some behind-the-scenes details on the making of this romantic front cover. Firstly, thanks to Mother Nature Whether you are jumping into the ocean to reset your mind or body or just enjoy the fun and camaraderie, the important thing is that you are supporting a good cause at the Isle of Palms Polar Plunge later this month. This annual fundraiser raises money to benefit the Special Olympics South Carolina athletic programs. The Mount Pleasant Police Department will host the Plunge through the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics South Carolina on Feb. 22 at the Windjammer. All proceeds will benefit athlete programs statewide. The event will also feature live music from Bach to Rock Mount Pleasant. Founded in 1968, the Special Olympics was created with a simple idea: to give individuals with intellectual About the Cover Love, sweet love By Zach Giroux 5 IslandVibesIOP.com NEWS IOP Polar Plunge to carry on a chilly tradition for a warm cause By Maurice J. Frazier disabilities the opportunity to compete in sports activities. That vision has now grown to focus not only on sports, but on health and education as well. The end goal is to improve the health status of and increase access to quality health care and health resources for people with intellectual disabilities. Any athlete must be healthy in mind and body to perform and excel in his/her given sport. The educational focus began in 1998 with a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, challenging the Special Olympics to find ways to make improvements in education and to make school campuses places of acceptance and inclusion. SOSC now has inclusion programs in over 400 schools here in the Palmetto State. “Last year we had 170 people, and 40 teams registered, and we are hoping to double that this year,” explained MPPD Lt. Don Calabrese. “The goal is to raise $50 per person to be able to plunge and get a polar plunge shirt.” To register, visit classy.org/campaign/2025isle-of-palms-polar-plunge/c598211 or for more information, contact Don Calabrese at dcalabrese@tompsc.com or (843) 998-5183. for providing the perfect chilly day. A few degrees warmer would have been nice but I don’t want to press my luck. Also, credit to IOP City Hall for providing the bench and greenery for the backdrop. Perhaps the biggest shoutout goes to our art director Bethany Long for scrambling to find the perfect touches to stage the scene: a combination of beautiful faux flowers and rose petals. The smallest details make the biggest difference. Most notably, this was the quickest and most efficient photoshoot I’ve ever been part of. I’m pretty positive our photographer Rachel Basye got it right on the first shot. Thanks to her skills behind the lens and the fact that Billy and Lisa are so photogenic, we were done in record time. Additionally, Bethany’s husband Andy was on standby as a stunt double in case Billy froze and needed a substitute. The man was casually wearing a T-shirt; clearly, he doesn’t feel pain. In retrospect, this photoshoot brought all of us together on a cold day to celebrate one of life’s greatest joys that some of us are lucky to experience and should never take for granted -- true love. Schedule of Events Saturday, Feb. 22 Registration 10:30 a.m. Costume Contest 11:15 a.m. Awards 11:45 a.m. Plunge Noon
and 41st Avenue outfalls. In 2024, approximately 32,000 linear feet of drainage systems were cleaned and restructured by the Public Works stormwater management team. 4. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION EFFORTS The glass recycling and composting program continued with Harris Teeter, IOP Marina tenants and the community diverting approximately 52 tons of glass and 9 tons of food waste from the landfill in 2024. Lowcountry resident Howard Hogue was specifically recognized by the IOP Clean-Up Crew and South Carolina Aquarium for recording his 1 millionth litter item collected since 2018. 3. PUBLIC SAFETY EFFORTS The IOP Police Department conducted multiple traffic operations to address traffic violations and logged almost 100 DUI charges during 2024. IOPPD reduced the number of vehicle collisions in 2024 by 27% from the previous year. It also received a Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act grant in the amount of $90,036 to implement a wellness app, certify the agency as the first trauma-informed agency in South Carolina through Columbia College and the first to host a law enforcement wellness seminar for law enforcement from around the state. 2. BEACH PRESERVATION EFFORTS In an ongoing battle against coastal erosion, IOP City leaders and engiNEWS Cooper River Photography by Rachel Basye Senior & Family Portrait Photography 6 IslandVibesIOP.com neering consultants coordinated and implemented emergency protective measures in the area along Breach Inlet and the north end of the island along Beachwood East. Sand from a new 2,500-foot-long sandbar shoal that is attaching parallel to the beach directly in front of Beachwood East at Wild Dunes is expected to be a key source of beach nourishment protection. “We’re looking at how the shoal is attaching right now and what it’s going to do over the next 12 to 18 months,” said Steve Traynum, president of Coastal Science & Engineering in Columbia, in May 2024. “That’s going to have a big impact on how many more years we’re going to get out of this particular project.” 1. FINANCIAL STABILITY IOP City ended Fiscal Year 2024 with $44.6 million in cash reserves, of which approximately $20.7 million are restricted funds. Maintaining the highest credit rating possible, the city has a manageable debt load with rates ranging from 1.6 to 4.14%, with a significant portion maturing in the next five years. Net assets surpassed liabilities by $60.6 million, with $52.9 million attributed to governmental activities and $7.6 million to business-type activities (IOP Marina). Additionally, the city received a clean opinion from the auditors for FY 2024. “All of these accomplishments are obviously important but from my council’s seat, fiscal responsibility is job one,” said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. “The variety of projects and events and multiple focuses required to run a city, even our size, is quite remarkable when we capture the year in a report.” City achievements From Page 3
Since the departure of Isle of Palms City Administrator Desiree Fragoso at the end of December, city leaders have seen a lot of interest expressed in the open position. With a total of 79 prospects so far, narrowing this number to two or three might prove something of a challenge, especially since many candidates are equally qualified. According to IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds, their first meeting with the recruiting firm was Jan. 10. “Some of the applicants have moved to the next step of due diligence,” Pounds said. That diligence is substantial, considering the day-to-day scope of the position. The city administrator role currently manages 102 employees in six city departments, which include Personnel, Policy Implementation and Compliance and Operational Efficiency and Accountability. It also includes managing an ever-increasing annual budget, which now stands at $29.1 million through June 2025; preparing a five-year capital program and updating it annually; ensuring that financial expenditures are within budget and notifying the mayor and council of potential budget overages. In addition to their own work, the next city administrator will oversee and manage all appointed department heads and their respective departments, such as fire, police, public works, recreation and building inspections. Besides carrying out the directives of city council, the city administrator deals with circumstances unique or relevant to the Isle of Palms such as the impact of tourism on city services, shortterm rental policies and recurring coastal dynamics such as flooding and beach renourishment. And this is only a snapshot of the position. Other duties include: • Holding leaders accountable for established departmental goals. • Coordinating city government activities across various agencies at the local, county, state and federal levels. • Preparing and presenting the proposed annual operating budget to the city council for review. • Managing the execution of the approved operating and capital budgets. • Conducting annual performance evaluations for department heads. • Ensuring adherence to federal, state and local laws and regulations 7 IslandVibesIOP.com governing city operations. • Attending all city council meetings and providing guidance and support on administrative matters. • Advising the city council on matters of policy, financial stability and major projects or initiatives. “We’re now narrowing the number of applicants to a manageable number,” said Pounds of the city administrator search. Pounds doesn’t expect council to make a hiring decision this month; however, he noted that he would be “ecstatic” to have a new hire in place during the second quarter of the fiscal year. City administrator role remains open, search yields high interest By L. C. Leach III NEWS
In a few short months, Isle of Palms residents and visitors alike will get to enjoy the first spring and summer season with the island’s new public dock located at IOP Marina. It took just over 50 months, an updated conceptual plan, design and redesign of public greenspace and some repairs and dredging, but the public dock is now completed. “Our public dock was designed to promote community engagement, provide more activities for guests and enhance our coastal environment,” said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. “Every individual and family is welcome to stop by and enjoy a variety of recreational activities by our serene waterways.” The scope of the project includes a 16-foot-wide pier with a covered area, an ADA-compliant gangway, a kayak and stand-up paddleboard launch access, benches, swings and the new floating dock. It cost approximately $1.7 million, funded 8 New IOP Marina dock ready for public use By L. C. Leach III WELCOME TO #2-54TH AVENUE 843-886-9600 carrollrealtyinc.com Meet your home base for your next Isle of Palms getaway! This massive home boasts an amazing location right near the Wild Dunes Resort Gate and is just 200 yards from the surf and sand, making this an attractive property for all types of vacationers - avid golfers and beach lovers! Offering up an impressive 7 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, this home is the ultimate retreat for big extended family vacations and/or large trips with friends. IslandVibesIOP.com mostly by a $1 million grant from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, with the remainder coming from the city’s Marina Fund and the Municipal Accommodations Tax and State Accommodations Tax. Pounds said the most critical element in the beginning was getting resident buy-in for the project. “When the marina referendum was held years ago, the vision was for public access to the water. Now we finally have that without our residents or visitors having to go through any business entity.” The new dock is just over four years in the making, beginning in September 2020 with a vote of approval by city council. After community input, structural assessment of the dock area’s existing bulkhead, approval of permits and the development of specifications by the engineering firm of Davis & Floyd, initial construction began in 2022, with the eventual completion of the boardwalk in May 2023. Greenspace specifications and parking redesigns followed, as did dredging, removal of electrical and water systems, repairs to the fixed pier and floating dock and installation of fire extinguisher pedestals. The last stages were completed this past November and IOP officials have scheduled a public ribbon-cutting ceremony for Feb. 7 from 10:30-11 a.m. It will be open every day from sunrise to sunset, all of which adds up to not only a day at the IOP Marina or beach, but memories of spotting dolphins, launching a kayak or just enjoying a sunset at the new dock. “Early usage of the new dock has been encouraging – even during construction,” Pounds added. “Once we finally add some greenspace, my belief is this area will continue to be a primary entertainment location for our island.” NEWS Photo by Rachel Basye
just how surprising and invigorating life can be — partner optional. Sip a glass of bubbly or a signature cocktail and toast to the best date ever: you! Pro tip: keep the celebration going Who says Valentine’s Day is a oneday affair? Sign up for a yoga class or treat yourself to a sweet treat later in the week. After all, self-love is a year-round endeavor. So, Isle of Palms singles, this Valentine’s Day, skip the pressure, embrace the freedom and celebrate your favorite person: yourself. Trust us, you’ll fall head over heels. 9 IslandVibesIOP.com OPINION How to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a party of one By Katie Finch Ah, Valentine’s Day. For some, it’s a day of chocolates, roses and candlelit dinners. For others, like you fabulous singles, it’s an opportunity for something even better: treating yourselves! This year let’s rewrite the Valentine’s Day narrative with self-love and solo adventures. Lucky for us, Isle of Palms is packed with businesses ready to help us celebrate in style. Start with coffee Every self-care day needs a caffeinated beginning. Start the day at The Refuge, where the smell of freshly-brewed coffee pairs perfectly with a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy slow sipping a latte, nibbling on a pastry and perhaps indulging in some journaling or reading. You might just find inspiration to write yourself a love letter — after all, you deserve it. Spa it up What’s Valentine’s Day without a little pampering? Head to Beach House Spa or The Spa at Sweetgrass for a massage that will melt away any stress. Whether it’s a hot stone treatment or a rejuvenating facial, this is your chance to treat your body to the TLC it deserves. Loving yourself is taking time to do things that simultaneously refresh your soul and awaken your senses. Lunch, solo and sassy When hunger strikes, make your way to Long Island Cafe. Order the she-crab soup — it’s indulgent, just like you. Pull up a seat at the bar, chat with the friendly staff or simply savor your meal in peaceful solitude. Treating yourself to a solo dining experience can be surprisingly empowering. Get moving After lunch, carve out some time to get active. Take a stroll on the beach or rent an e-bike to explore the island in style. Feel the wind in your hair and remind yourself that there’s beauty in every single moment (especially this one). Find some gratitude for the beautiful place we get to call home. Retail therapy? Yes, please! Nothing says “I love me” like a little shopping spree. Visit The Outpost at Isle of Palms Marina or Just Beachy for chic accessories, unique gifts and all the island vibes. Step into a boutique you’ve never visited. You might find something new and unexpected to make you smile. End the day with a sunset drink Wrap up your perfect day with a beverage at The Boathouse at Breach Inlet. Their rooftop bar offers stunning sunset views that will remind you “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
PART OF THE POSITIVE VIBES DISTRIBUTION NETWORK IS THE ASHEVILLE/HENDERSONVILLE AIRPORT. FROM THE FIRST ISSUE OF ISLAND VIBES IN OCTOBER 2023 TO THIS ISSUE FEBRUARY 2025 AND EVERY ISSUE MOVING FORWARD WILL BE SHIPPED TO THIS AIRPORT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN OUR LOWCOUNTRY KIOSK. ALL OF OUR PUBLICATIONS: MOUNT PLEASANT MAGAZINE, CHARLESTON WOMEN AND ISLAND VIBES ARE DISTRIBUTED THROUGH THE KIOSK WE’VE MAINTAINED FOR 10-PLUS YEARS AT THE ASHEVIILE AIRPORT. FOR DISTRIBUTION OR MARKETING INFORMATION, EMAIL PUBLISHER@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM OR 843-530-0403. SOUTH CAROLINA WELCOME CENTERS DISTRIBUTE POSITIVE VIBES ALL YEAR LONG. THEY LOVE TO TELL TRAVELERS ABOUT THE MAP OF THE ISLE OF PALMS INSIDE EACH ISSUE OF ISLAND VIBES. SPREADING THROUGH TARGETED LOCAL AND REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION P ositive Vibes chamber’s new website, which pairs a polished, family-friendly aesthetic with practical features for visitors. Highlights include: Itineraries Tab: Regularly updated family-focused plans showcasing the island’s best dining, shopping and activities. Map & Directory: A comprehensive digital guide to local businesses and attractions, with plans for a physical kiosk at Front Beach in 2025. The directory is more than a list — it’s a tool to connect visitors and locals with hidden gems, foster repeat visits and drive traffic to chamber-member businesses. The chamber’s social media strategy will amplify this effort, featuring drone footage and engaging reels that highlight the island’s beauty and experiences. From fine dining and pet-friendly spots to curated family itineraries, every post will capture the spirit of adventure, fun and discovery. By combining digital outreach with print campaigns, the chamber seeks to not only attract vacationers but also ensure local businesses thrive. Our multi-channel approach ensures every visitor, whether it’s their first or fifth time here, feels connected to the unique charm of Isle of Palms. As the Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce builds on this momentum, it is poised to create a vibrant future where tourism and community engagement intersect, benefiting both visitors and local businesses. The result? An island destination where families can explore, relax and make memories for years to come. Warm regards, Alex Stone IV President, Isle of Palms Chamber Commerce 10 BUSINESS IslandVibesIOP.com Chamber Notes New digital marketing strategy targets vacationers By Alex Stone President, IOP Chamber of Commerce The Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce finds many of our members in proactive project mode this time of year. In like kind the chamber is proactively planning to solidify the strategic objectives set forth for 2025 and beyond. The chamber is steering toward an exciting new direction with a forward-thinking marketing strategy designed to redefine the island’s reputation as a premier family-friendly destination. Launched in late 2024 and set to expand in 2025, the initiative blends digital innovation with community-focused storytelling to spotlight the charm and inclusivity of Isle of Palms. At the core of this initiative is a dual focus: attracting family vacationers and supporting local businesses. The chamber aims to enhance digital tools, curate itineraries and leverage social, print and digital media to connect visitors with local businesses, events and experiences. We want Isle of Palms to stand out as a welcoming, vibrant community that offers something for everyone, from fine dining and boutique shopping to kid-friendly activities and beachside adventures. To sustain these efforts, the chamber is focused on growing its local business memberships, which are vital to maintaining the digital directory and funding-targeted Google and Meta ad campaigns. These campaigns are specifically designed to attract family vacationers to the island, boosting both tourism and the visibility of local businesses. Our success depends on a strong partnership with local businesses, as their support fuels the tools we need to grow Isle of Palms’ appeal as a must-visit destination. A cornerstone of the strategy is the
Admissions Process.” Join Lisa Gastaldi, Low Country College Counseling, as she prepares parents and students for the college process. Feb. 21 – Community Wellness Fair – 7-11 a.m. – Join us at the rec for a morning full of health and wellness. East Cooper Medical Center will be onsite with free cholesterol and glucose screenings. Over 25 wellness vendors onsite to showcase services, products and programs they offer to the community. Feb. 28 - Coffee with the Mayor – 9 a.m.-10 a.m. at The Outpost Marina Store. March 1 – Front Beach Fest – noon -4 p.m. – Front Beach – Join us for a spring festival! We’ll have live music, local arts and craft vendors, food from our local restaurants, children's entertainment and more! You can get updates or find more information at iop.net on these and other upcoming events or you can sign up for Sunnie to receive text alerts of city events and news by texting "Hello" to (877) 607-6467. Thank you for the opportunity to serve! See you around the island. Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net 11 IslandVibesIOP.com CIVICS charleston@srspecialists.com www.srspecialists.com (843) 732-0111 THREE-TIME CONSECUTIVE BEST Senior Advocates of Mount Pleasant 2023 ® 2024 ® 2025 ® Mayor’s Message Perspective is pivotal when you live in paradise By Phillip Pounds Mayor, Isle of Palms An article in a recent edition of Charleston Magazine caught my eye since it was profiling a young family that recently moved to the island. It stated: “This family had lived in eight homes in the Charleston area over the years. Then, they stumbled across a newly renovated home on IOP situated in an idyllic neighborhood just blocks from the ocean.” I had to remind myself of the proper definition of idyllic: extremely happy, peaceful or picturesque. That’s how this story described the place we get to call home and experience every day! Other quotes from the article that describe our community and are worth highlighting: “Prior to moving away from the area for a short time, the family first rented a home on IOP for the winter a few blocks from the ocean near the rec center and quickly fell in love with the more subdued, off-season vibe. They decided if they were to ever move back to the area, this is where they would live.” “An additional draw for IOP was the neighborhood. We had friends who told us how great the area is for families – it’s like Mayberry by the sea.” What a great story! Sometimes a newcomer’s fresh perspective is just what is needed to remind us how fortunate we are to live where we do and how special our community is. Isle of Palms offers many activities for our enjoyment. Have you found yourself taking it for granted? Is it time to look at our community with a fresh perspective? Every time I come over the Connector and see the ocean, I try to remind myself how blessed we truly are and use it as inspiration and motivation to continue to work hard to protect the place we call home. Some great upcoming events: Feb. 4 - Speaker Series at the Rec – 5-6 p.m. – “Navigating the College
12 CRIME DUIS AREN’T LAW DEGREES Topping the charts this month, DUIs remained undefeated, clocking in at eight incidents. It seems that while the temperature dropped, the blood alcohol content rose. Just a friendly reminder: if you're drinking, the safest place to park is at home on the couch — not in the median. DRUGS DON’T CURE DUMBNESS Our runner-up categories, both tied at five incidents each, were driving under suspension and marijuana/drug possession. In one particularly creative case, a habitual traffic offender decided to diversify his portfolio, pairing psilocybin mushrooms with his usual Mary Jane regimen. While this may have elevated his mental state, it unfortunately also elevated his legal problems. We suspect “habitual traffic offender” wasn’t quite the resolution he envisioned for 2025. WANTED AND MUCH NEEDED COMMON SENSE Meanwhile, another intrepid individual upped the stakes with a Schedule I narcotic possession — while already being a wanted man. Unsurprisingly, this combination didn’t exactly scream “mastermind.” Spoiler alert: it didn’t go well. COMMITTING SAME CRIMES REQUIRES SAME STUPIDITY The following incidents were obtained from the Isle of Palms Police Department Media Log Reports. This is a parody of real criminal events that occurred between December and January. The names of individuals and business locations have been omitted out of privacy and respect. As the weather cooled this month, so too did the number of criminal shenanigans. Could it be that our usual suspects have gone into hibernation? Or perhaps they're saving their energy for springtime infractions? Either way, January's incident report reads like a re-run of last year's greatest hits, with a fresh cast filling the same old roles. Deja vu, anyone? With the weather warming soon, we anticipate a corresponding spike in bad ideas. For now, let’s enjoy the calm while it lasts. After all, February is now upon us, and love might not be the only thing in the air. Stay safe Isle of Palms, and remember: the IOPPD is always ready for your next “Hold my beer” moment. POLICE BLOTTER Living and Selling the Lowcountry Lifestyle #1 Isle of Palms Realtor - 2024 IOP RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE www.iop-residential.com 1100 Palm Blvd. 2C Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Amy Rogers REALTOR OF DISTINCTION amy@iop-residential.com 843-824-4892 As seen on IslandVibesIOP.com
The Isle of Palms Recreation Center launched its Speaker Series on Jan. 7 with Joe Gandy, a pharmacist from Delta Pharmacy on Isle of Palms. In the first installment of the series, Gandy spoke about medications, vaccinations and supplements. He discussed some of the history and evolution of pharmacy and the services provided by community pharmacies as an accessible health care site, prescriptions, over-the-counter medication advice, vaccinations and medication therapy management. Regarding supplements, Gandy explained that they are regulated by the FDA more similarly to food than drugs as a result of regulation passed in the 1990s. “Supplements do not go through the rigorous testing and approval process that medications do. While it’s typically best to get your nutrients through diet, supplements can serve as an aid in certain situations such as true deficiencies due to biological dysfunctions or even some medications.” He noted it’s important to seek quality formulations if taking a supplement. Do medications address the problem or just put a bandage on it? Gandy elaborated that it can be both. Medications can objectively treat certain conditions like antibiotics for an infection or blood pressure or cholesterol medicine. “These results can be seen or measured relatively clearly. Other medications may improve conditions less easily measured (i.e. antidepressants), often along with other non-pharmacological treatments,” Gandy shared. Vaccines, which have been crucial in preventing and even eradicating some diseases (i.e. polio), have become a controversial topic in recent years. “Unfortunately, during Covid they were pushed very rapidly and without much explanation. Due to the unprecedented nature of the pandemic a lot of decisions were made outside of the normal protocols and vaccines were developed and distributed under emergency use,” Gandy highlighted. Gandy added that all of today's available vaccines have gone through the standard process and have been approved like any other medication. Though they are not 100% effective, vaccines can reduce the burden of common diseases. For more information about upcoming speakers, visit iop.net/recreation/programs-classes/adult-programs. 2025 ® COASTAL COVERAGE SPECIALISTS 843.881-4707 | insureme@sigsc.com Mount Pleasant & Beaufort AUTO • HOMEOWNERS CONDO • LIFE • WIND & HAIL COMMERCIAL • FLOOD Schirmer Insurance Group protects against life’s unpredictable events. COMMUNITY Local pharmacist weighs-in on medications, vaccinations and more By Maurice J. Frazier 13 IslandVibesIOP.com IOP REC SPEAKER SERIES Navigating the College Application Process Lisa Gastaldi, Low Country College Counseling Tuesday, Feb. 4, 5 p.m. Let’s Go Birding! Charles Donnelly, Holy City Birding Thursday, March 27, 11 a.m. DESIGN SERIES Simplify & Organize Heidi Alexander, Everything in Its Place Wednesday, March 12, 11 a.m. Design on a Dime Elizabeth Newman, Elizabeth Newman Interior Design Wednesday, March 26, 11 a.m. Ambassador of Good Vibes! Eli Lev, Singer Songwriter Wednesday, April 23, 11 a.m. FOURTH AGE SERIES Aging Lightly Kathryn McGrew, Ph.D. Wednesday, Sept.24, 5 p.m. Estate Planning, Trusts, Probate Process Joshua Hooser, Attorney at Law, Hooser Legal Counsel LLC Wednesday, Oct. 15, 5 p.m.
COMMUNITY 14 IslandVibesIOP.com Wild Dunes Author Event bookmarks world-class talent By Maurice J. Frazier LOCAL SINCE 1989 Real Estate 800.476.8444 Vacation Rentals 888.250.8730 DunesProperties.com CharlestonCoastVacations.com . . . FEATURED LISTING 362 Pelican Flight Drive, Dewees Island 4 Beds, 4.5 Baths, 2630 Ft2 Offered for $1,125,000 This beautiful coastal retreat features an open-concept kitchen, dining, and living room with soaring vaulted ceilings. Expansive sliding glass doors line both front and back walls, inviting stunning views and breezy ocean air into every corner. Dewees Island offers a peaceful haven, free from crowds and automobiles where golf carts and bicycles are the only forms of transportation, creating a timeless beach-town feel. Listed by: Jennifer O’Brien, Realtor® 610.283.0867 For many, reading is the ultimate escape, providing a portal to new worlds that exist beyond the limitations of everyday life. It offers readers the freedom to experience different eras, places and emotions, all while remaining in the comfort of their own space. The weekend of Jan. 18, which marked the 20th anniversary of the Wild Dunes Author Event & Weekend with local writer Mary Alice Monroe, celebrated this power of the page. Monroe, a New York Times bestselling author, has written 30 books and received numerous accolades and awards including the South Caroling Academy of Authors Hall of Fame, the Southern Prize for Fiction and the Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award. Her novel “The Beach House” is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie. She founded The Wild Dunes Author Event & Weekend, which is part of a year-round literary series exclusively on the Isle of Palms. Through this special weekend, Monroe has introduced the public to world-class authors. The weekend featured New York Times bestselling authors Kwame Alexander and Patti Callahan Henry. Monroe was a guest herself to discuss her new book called “Where the Rivers Merge.” The event kicked off Jan. 17 with a happy hour event featuring authors Susan Boyer, Roger Jones and Caroline Cleveland. “This is a great opportunity to meet my fellow authors and fans within the community,” shared Boyer, author of “The Sullivan’s Island Supper Club.” “Mary Alice is so big in Charleston and so beloved. What she does is such high quality. I did my first signing at the Barnes & Noble in Mount Pleasant. Mary put my book on her website and people came out and supported it,” said Cleveland of her book “When Cicadas Cry.” Monroe’s connection with her readers and her community started long before the advent of social media. She is passionate about readership and recognizes the importance of bringing people together, which the author event allows her to do. “Mary Alice Monroe, my friend and mentor, has proven through her prolific writing and with her annual Wild Dunes Author Weekend that one person can make a big difference,” stated Kristen Ness, a Charleston resident and author of “At Loggerheads.” “In a room full of booklovers and authors, I find a profound sense of community and connection. I’m inspired. I’m encouraged. And I’m reminded as an author that the work I do alone—imagining, writing, editing—results in bringing people together through words and story. We’re not alone. We’re the bookworms and the wordsmiths. Because of Mary Alice’s weekend to celebrate books, we have an annual place to gather with our friends. I look forward to it every year!” The event featured the following authors: • Kwame Alexander • Patti Callahan Henry • Marjory Wentworth • Susan Boyer • Roger Jones • Caroline Cleveland Buxton Books has served as a sponsor since 2017. The event, which started with 50 attendees, now sells out every year and draws more than 500 people. “We have a strong working relationship with Mary Alice and her team. We work year-round doing events, but Mary Alice is one of the bigger ones,” said Polly Buxton, owner of Buxton Books. Pictured from left are Polly Buxton, Mary Alice Monroe, Kwame Alexander and Patti Henry
15 IslandVibesIOP.com LIFESTYLE ered the mail during that storm.” This comes as no surprise to those who know and have come to love and admire Bailem. He is the type of optimistic, cheerful person who shows up and works hard and shares a smile and a kind word no matter what the circumstances may be. Bailem and his wife Cindi exude a certain type of positivity and lively energy that is both appreciated and respected amongst those lucky enough to know them. Their move from Williamsburg, Virginia, to Mount Pleasant in 2006, soon followed by a transfer from Mount Pleasant to the Isle of Palms for a new mail route, led to Bailem developing an overwhelming love and gratitude for living and working in the Lowcountry. “I looked forward to every single day working on the island. It is a wonderful, beautiful place to be. Working or not, I love this island and her people,” Bailem said. “Delivering mail and packages and smiles here was Joe Bailem’s radiant smile will sorely be missed, now that the longtime mail carrier has retired from the U.S. Postal Service. After nearly 20 years serving the Isle of Palms as mailman extraordinaire, Bailem was celebrated a few days before his actual retirement with a party at the Isle of Palms Recreation Center. Many locals showed up for this surprise party in support of Bailem despite the dreary weather. Former IOP Mayor Jimmy Carroll was in attendance and summed up the celebration nicely: “Congratulations to one of my favorite mail carriers of all time. It was wet and cold but Joe’s smile and laugh broke through the clouds.” Other residents in attendance agreed. “We're going to miss Joe. We’re happy for him but sad to see him go. There is no one like him. Always smiling and whistling. We can all learn a thing or two from wonderful Mr. Joe.” Island residents described Bailem as “one of the kindest, friendliest and most dependable mail carriers out there.” Bailem bid the island a fond goodbye from the rec center with a smile and a few words: “Hello noble IOP! Farewell from this park and this mail carrier’s mission to separate the mail and deliver it to its destined destination.” Bailem recalled his most memorable time on the job on IOP being the January 2018 winter storm. “We were called into work that day. Everyone was called in and expected to work but only two mail carriers showed up,” Bailem recounted. “The ice was thick. The roads were bad, but I showed up and I deliva special time in my life. It was fun and I will miss it. The people, the kids, the dogs, just interacting with everything and everyone on my route was the best part of working here.” Joe and Cindi plan to travel upon Bailem’s retirement from the postal service. They aren’t exactly sure of where they will go or what the precise travel plan looks like, but they are both certain that they will travel and visit with friends and family and that they will absolutely enjoy their retirement together. “The Isle of Palms holds a special place in my heart and now I look forward to doing what I want, when I want and sharing new and exciting experiences with my beautiful wife,” said Bailem. Final Delivery Longtime IOP mailman retires after delivering decades of smiles By Laura Fogarty Joe and Cindy Bailem A group of islanders held a retirement party to celebrate IOP mailman Joe Baliem.
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Meet the Chef Charles Arena from Acme By Sarah Rose Long Island Cafe gets a splash of new ownership By Sarah Rose FOOD & BEV As a boy growing up in Brooklyn, Charles Arena was fascinated by watching his mom and grandmother cook what he called “Italian comfort food.” In middle school, Arena’s family moved to Monticello, New York. He envied his older brother who found a job working in a small restaurant a couple of blocks from their new home. At 14 years old, Arena was also hired to work in a nearby restaurant. Following his passion for the food and beverage industry, he attended the Culinary Institute of America. After graduating in 1998, Arena decided it was time to make a move away from wintry weather toward a warmer climate. He and his roommate traveled to South Carolina where they interviewed at restaurants along the coast from Myrtle Beach to Charleston. Parked at a table at Applebee’s in West Ashley one Wednesday night, the friends decided that Charleston would become the destination for their new home. For the next seven years, Arena worked as chef for the Kiawah River Course & Beach Club. Then an opportunity arose to join The Boathouse as chef for the Breach Inlet and downtown locations, as well as overseeing their catering department. After a 12-year chapter with the group, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen called Arena, inquiring if he was ready to make a change. While Arena enjoyed his tenure at The Boathouse, when Acme presented their proposal, it was the right time for the transition. Eight years later, Arena is happy working with a fantastic team while making local favorites such as the IOP shrimp and grits, his favorite seafood dish on Acme’s menu, and succotash. A day in the life of a chef at Acme, he said, begins at 10 a.m. when he arrives to check in with the managers and sous chefs to get a lay of the land and a feel for what’s happening that day. Between working with vendors and creating nightly specials based on local and seasonal fresh catch and produce, Arena added that the most rewarding part of his job is keeping guests raving about the menu items, whether staples or innovative options. When he’s not in the kitchen, Arena can be found at home hanging out with his wife and 17-year-old son, Tate, who has aspirations of becoming an animation artist; catching up on the phone with his 19-year-old son, Tre, who is studying to become an engineer; working out or playing with his two dogs Hondo and Sully. Arena said he rarely cooks in his own kitchen unless it’s the holidays and the kids are around. In that case, he pays homage to the Italian fare that he grew up with, along with traditional French dishes. After 33 years in the food and beverage industry, Arena has his finger on the pulse of what keeps locals and visitors alike coming back. It’s quite evident that the kitchen is his arena. When the time came for Ravi Scher and his silent partner to pass the torch to new owners of Long Island Cafe and the adjacent IOP Raw Bar, it was a natural progression for the Lackey family, owners of Imagine One Hospitality, to purchase the iconic island establishments. Based in Hickory, North Carolina, the Lackeys have owned a home on Isle of Palms for decades, according to director of marketing operations Sallie Long. Long, who has worked in the restaurant industry under the Lackeys for 10 years and whose children grew up going to Long Island Cafe and the IOP Raw Bar, said it made sense to keep the ownership on the island. “As longtime guests of both restaurants, the Lackeys have strong relationships with Scher and deep connections with the staff who have been there forever,” Long continued. “We think so highly of the previous owners and what they created. We want to respect that, so we won’t be doing a massive overhaul. Of course, any time there is a transition, there will be some small changes. Over time we will keep refreshing but that will be a slow progression. Our intention is to highlight what we have inherited and keep the vibe of this space going. With this being such a tight-knit community, we want customers to feel the same homey, nostalgic love they’ve had for years.” Long noted that while there will be aesthetic renovations in the kitchen, such as installing new appliances, there won’t be any major modifications to the interior decor in the front of the house or bar area. Additionally, there won’t be any alterations to the core chef-driven menus at either of the two restaurants that share a kitchen while operating as separate establishments. Long added that Chef Jacob Mitzel does love incorporating daily and weekly specials, highlighting the fresh catch with his own spin. The Long Island Cafe, known for its she-crab soup, signature fresh flounder dish and shrimp and grits, serves lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily and dinner with menu options from both restaurants available from 5-8 p.m. every evening. The IOP Raw Bar, renowned on the island for oysters, local catch, chilled appetizers and seafood towers, is open for dinner nightly from 5-9 p.m. She also said that there will be a few bonuses coming this spring, which include a to-go kitchen and two new items on the menu, steam buckets and a Lowcountry boil. 18 IslandVibesIOP.com Acme chef Charles Arena with sons Tate (left) and Tre.
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