IslandVibesIOP.com 11 The IOP VFW Post 3137 recently hosted the U.S. Coast Guard Base – Charleston for a cornhole tournament and lunch. The “Coasties” enjoyed a spirited tournament of cornhole. The winning team “I have a dog named Scout” consisted of Ashley and Ryan Morris. The runner-up team “Stonies” were Calan Keller and Braden Walters. The winning team received a celebratory prize, plus bragging rights. Following the awards ceremony, all participants and volunteers enjoyed a luncheon of hot dogs and hamburgers. The coordinators for the event were Bob Patterson, current patriotic instructor, and George Page, past VFW Auxiliary president. Patterson served in the Coast Guard from 1976 to 1982. Capt. Eric Jones, commanding officer of the Coast Guard Base – Charleston; Matt Valenti, command master chief; and Lt. Cmdr. Doug Wood, base operations, and 70-plus Coast Guard members attended the day of rest and relaxation. Matthew Kulesza, chief warrant officer, was the morale officer in charge of this event for the Coast Guard family. Jones stated that the U.S. Coast Guard Base – Charleston currently has a workforce of 275 members. The base supports 11 local tenant units, including seven major commands. The primary mission of the Charleston base is to provide depot level mission support functions to local operational partners. Additionally, the base supports customers regionally in northern Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Charleston will eventually be the home of up to 10 major cutters and the future center of operational gravity on the East Coast. The Coast Guard broke ground in 2024 on the former Naval complex on the Cooper River, where several key projects are currently under construction. For more information on the VFW and Auxiliary at Post 3137, visit vfw3137.org. COMMUNITY VFW battles Coast Guard in friendly cornhole tournament Provided IOP Polar Plunge suits up for heartwarming cause Provided Winter on the Isle of Palms is about to heat up – at least in spirit – as the 2026 Isle of Palms Polar Plunge returns on Saturday, Feb. 28, at The Windjammer. The annual event brings together brave participants, cheering spectators and local law enforcement for a high-energy fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics South Carolina. Organized in partnership with the Law Enforcement Torch Run, the Polar Plunge challenges individuals and teams to take a refreshing leap into the Atlantic Ocean while raising funds for a meaningful mission. One hundred percent of the funds raised directly benefit athlete programs across South Carolina, supporting opportunities that empower thousands of individuals through sports. Special Olympics South Carolina provides year-round sports training and competition for more than 30,707 children and adults with intellectual disabilities statewide. Funds raised through the Isle of Palms Polar Plunge help ensure these athletes can continue to train, compete and thrive in inclusive and supportive environments. The event is well known for its festive atmosphere, with participants often sporting creative costumes and team gear. Spectators are encouraged to come out and enjoy the excitement, even if they prefer to stay dry. Live music, contests and a post-plunge celebration add to the lively beachfront experience. Those ready to take the plunge can register as an individual or join or form a team. Each plunger is required to raise a minimum of $50 to participate, and all registered plungers will receive an event T-shirt. Community members are encouraged to participate by plunging, donating or cheering from the shoreline. With icy waves, spirited costumes and a powerful cause, the 2026 Isle of Palms Polar Plunge promises another unforgettable day of giving back. For questions about the event, contact Don Calabrese at dcalabrese@tompsc.com or 843-9985183.
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