an electric shock to restore a normal rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest. According to the American Heart Association, 9 in 10 cardiac arrest victims who receive a shock from an AED in the first minute live. "We are very grateful for the support the IOP FVRG has shown our agency since the group was formed. This donation adds one more tool for our officers to accomplish the department's mission of serving and protecting all who live, work and visit the Isle of Palms," said Police Chief Kevin Cornett. The AEDs were purchased by the IOP FVRG with no taxThe Isle of Palms Police Department will be equipped with life-saving equipment thanks to a donation from a local business group called the Isle of Palms Family Vacation Rental Group (FVRG). The FVRG purchased two automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the department, with the goal of having these critical life-saving tools readily available in patrol vehicles and all-terrain vehicles patrolling the beach during the busy summer months. AEDs are life-saving devices that analyze heart rhythms and deliver payer funds being used. If the program is successful, the agency hopes to add two more devices next year. “Representing approximately 90% of all professionally-managed properties, we are committed to being responsible and caring members of the Isle of Palms community. We believe that by working together, we can create a harmonious environment that benefits the residents and vacationers who all love and cherish IOP," FVRG co-chair Mel Miles stated. Formed in 2024, the IOP FVRG is made up of 17 members and cochaired by Mel Miles of Exclusive Properties. The group was created to improve communication and livability with residents. As the summer season hits its stride, the Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce and its members are fully immersed in the high-energy pace that defines our coastal community’s busiest time of year. The chamber has remained actively engaged with businesses across the island, continuing to build momentum through new membership conversations, community partnerships and event participation — including the recent grand opening and ribbon cutting of Jeff’s Bagel Run, a welcome addition to the local culinary scene. While summer brings with it a natural uptick in commerce and tourism, chamber leadership is also looking ahead to the fall and beyond. Recognizing the value of ongoing connection outside of peak months, we are in the early stages of developing a series of member-facing and community-oriented social opportunities. These prospective events are designed not only to strengthen the opportunities and complexities of operating in a seasonal economy, we welcome the involvement and insight of all our members — new and long-standing alike. To share your ideas, explore partnership opportunities or get involved in a subcommittee, please reach out to the chamber team. We’re excited for what the remainder of the year holds and look forward to shaping it together. IOPPD receives life-saving equipment donated by vacation rental group By Sgt. Matt Storen IOPPD Public Information Officer 10 BUSINESS IslandVibesIOP.com Chamber Notes Summer business surge requires strategic planning By Alex Stone IV President, IOP Chamber of Commerce relationships within the business community, but also to foster new connections with those who may be exploring membership or partnership with the chamber. At this time, we are actively seeking ideas, collaborators and event partners who share our vision of celebrating and supporting the Isle of Palms through meaningful, community-driven programming. In addition to these social efforts, the chamber is expanding its strategic focus through a new marketing initiative. This follows the success of a recent pilot campaign designed to assess how targeted digital strategies might elevate visibility for Isle of Palms businesses. The results were highly encouraging, providing clear, data-driven confirmation that we can effectively reach specific audiences with customized messaging. Based on these insights, the chamber is now working to develop a series of scalable campaigns aimed at increasing traffic, engagement and economic activity within the IOP business corridor. As these campaigns evolve, chamber members will have opportunities to participate as featured businesses, sponsors or test case collaborators. Another area of growing interest among our membership is the formation of specialized subcommittees that bring together businesses with shared models, markets or industry challenges. These subgroups provide a platform for candid conversation, resource-sharing and collective problem-solving. We’ve observed the strength that emerges when peer businesses connect over common goals — whether it’s navigating seasonal demand, workforce dynamics or customer engagement — and we are currently identifying members who are interested in leading or participating in these groups. The chamber remains committed to being a resource, advocate and convener for our business community. As we continue to navigate both
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