CARTA BEACH REACH BACK FOR SIXTH SUMMER SEASON See Page 3 Photo by Rachel Basye Vol.4 Issue 5 May 2026 To read digitally, visit ReadIslandVibes.com The conversation continues at IsleOfPalmsPodcast.com FIRST IOP TOWN HALL BRINGS CROWDS, QUESTIONS See Page 6 A LIFE IN Full Bloom SECRET TO A LONG LIFE See Page X LIGHTS OUT FOR TURTLE SEASON See Page X FLAGS FOR HEROES See Page X ANTICIPATION BUILDING FOR CITY’S BIGGEST PROJECT TO DATE See Page 5
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IslandVibesIOP.com 3 NEWS CARTA Beach Reach back for sixth summer season Expanded Friday service expected to bring more riders 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 What started in 2020 as a tangible way to eliminate excess IOP island traffic, resident transportation and parking worries and misconceptions about public transit has exceeded all three. When the approaching summer season arrives, the CARTA Beach Reach weekend trolley shuttle service will not only expand to include Fridays, but is also anticipated to become the first choice of Mount Pleasant beach-goers to reach the sand. “Ridership on CARTA has improved every year; last year, it was right at 900,” said IOP City Councilman and CARTA board member Jimmy Ward on April 20. “The last two Fridays, traffic has been very heavy. So, we’re hoping more people will take advantage of this free service, and not worry about having to sit in long traffic lines and then pay for parking.” Matthew Spath, communications director with the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, which oversees CARTA, added that even with the use of only one trolley, the addition of Friday transport could “eclipse the 1,000-rider mark for the season.” The service will begin on May 22 and run Friday-Sunday through Sept. 7, as well as on Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Riders can board at stop No. 715, located behind the Belk Men’s store at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, then disembark less than 5 miles later at IOP County Park at Ocean Boulevard and 14th Avenue and take a direct path to Front Beach. Saturday shuttles run every hour from 9:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday times are from 9:40 a.m. to 5:40 p.m. “A Friday schedule hasn’t been confirmed yet, but should be similar to Saturday,” Spath said. If you haven’t used the service yet, both Ward and Town of Mount Pleasant Councilman Daniel Brownstein said one try will likely make you a regular rider. “The trolley is air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi, very convenient – and once you arrive on the island, there’s easy access to public restrooms and shops on Front Beach,” Ward said. Brownstein, who has used the service several times so far, pointed out that Beach Reach is also ideal for transporting large assemblies – such as a group of about 20 middle school girls last year for his daughter’s birthday party. “It was so convenient to meet at Towne Centre rather than to try to coordinate parking several vehicles on IOP – and the girls had a blast,” he said. “And one of the biggest misconceptions about the shuttle is that you can't bring all of the stuff your family needs to CARTA Beach Reach trolley shuttle. Photo courtesy of Matthew Spath, communications director with the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments. enjoy a beach day. But you can, except for large items like surfboards.” On the many summer days when IOP visitors number more than 20,000 and the roads tend to resemble one large parking lot, a trolley shuttle ride might make you wonder why you didn’t use it sooner. “It also helps cut down on congestion on the IOP Connector by giving people an alternative to driving,” said TOMP Communications Manager Eric LaFontaine. “Which benefits everyone heading to and from the beach.”
IslandVibesIOP.com 4 Island Vibes Vol. 4, Issue 5, May 2026 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER JAZZY JORDAN ASSISTANT@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ART DIRECTOR BETHANY LONG 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 ELLEN KERR ELLEN@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM WEB EDITOR GEORGE CONKLIN CONTRIBUTORS RYAN BUCKHANNON • LAURA FOGARTY ALLYAH HARRAR • L.C. LEACH III COLIN MCCANDLESS • PAMELA MARSH KIMBERLYN NAYLOR • PHILLIP POUNDS SARAH ROSE • KRISTI SELLERS SALES REPRESENTATIVES STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM MARNIE BONN MARNIE@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM BRIANNA ZAPPULLA BRIANNA@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 Proud Member of the IOP Chamber of Commerce and A South Carolina Press Association Award-Winning Publication. FROM THE TEAM From the Publisher The gift will keep on giving if you love what you do About the Cover Mother’s Day Magic on Full Display Please don’t judge me or think I’m weird, but each time we create an edition of Island Vibes, I feel like we are creating a gift. Not only a gift that we can enjoy, but also a gift for everyone who calls the Isle of Palms home or visits the island. See, I knew you would think I’m weird. But when you consider how each edition spreads positive vibes, whether an article about an island event, a special person residing on this slice of paradise or a step back in time to discover something new about Isle of Palms, we may not realize how many gifts await inside these pages until we read them. In our May issue, the front cover features ‘Mama,’ who is 106 years old. I hope Mama (Kathryn Magruder), her friends and family will consider this issue a gift. Our April edition had a very special article about Naish Kaloupek and how his journey brought the island together and, in many ways, further strengthened an already tight-knit community. Photo by Rachel Basye The cover photo shoot for this month’s issue of Island Vibes was fraught with change and redirection. Would we be taking photographs in front of the azaleas on 25th Avenue or would we be relocating to the marina or perhaps traveling to Mount Pleasant to follow our models to their weekly bridge game? The answer eluded us until nearly the very last minute. A twice weekly check on the azalea blooms at our generous host’s home to see if the flowers were cooperating resulted in the creation of a few backup plans because the azaleas did not seem to want to show up for us. Alas, the day of the scheduled photo shoot, the azaleas were on full display – beautiful, lovely, regal, hot pink flowers greeted us and our amazing cover subjects. Kathryn Magruder and her 106-year-old mother Kathryn, affectionally known as “Mama,” have become an island mother-daughter icon over the years, and deservedly so. The love, laughter, light and connection between the two is sure to warm hearts and inspire mother-daughter traditions for Mother’s Day and beyond. Naish’s poignant story was a gift to everyone. Additionally, over the years we’ve discovered that people like our twopage Isle of Palms and Wild Dunes map. I would like to believe that the vacationers who use our map regard it as a gift of sorts to help them find places on the island quicker and more easily. There are also Isle of Palms vacation rental companies who we’ve helped acquire more properties to rent as well as generate more vacation rentals because of their ads in Island Vibes. I hope they look at this as a gift. I have to come clean, though. As I write this publisher’s note on April 27, it’s my birthday. But make no mistake about it, regardless of when I write my publisher’s note or publish Island Vibes, birthday or no birthday, our staff here feel Island Vibes is our gift to all our readers, in support of the Isle of Palms community we serve. Before we leave each other’s company, I wanted to wish former managing editor Zach Giroux good luck on his next adventure. It was fun having him by my side as we launched Isle of Palms’ community newspaper, Island Vibes. Thanks to everyone who reads Island Vibes. You have given me the best gift I could receive – no matter what day of the year it is. Positively yours, Bill Macchio Publisher Reggie couldn’t stand it that he had to join his buddy Bill’s office birthday party.
IslandVibesIOP.com 5 NEWS Major beach renourishment effort slated for June Anticipation building for city’s biggest project to date By L. C. Leach III Ask any IOP resident about local beach preservation, and you will likely hear an earful both supporting and questioning current methods to combat erosion. But as IOP City leaders and consultants prepare for the island’s biggest sand renourishment project to date, hopes are running high not only for a successful outcome, but to implement other long-term measures that are anticipated to keep the island and its beaches around for a long time to come. “The city is in the process of securing easements from 140 property owners in order to place sand and build dunes along sections of the beach that have experienced severe erosion,” said IOP Public Information Director Joshua Uys. “Sand placement will start on the north end in June and wrap up in September on the southern end. Our contractor is expected to move at a pace of 100 feet per day.” The project will place up to 2.5 million cubic yards of beach-quality sediment along up to 19,200 linear feet of shoreline on the two ends of the island. Sand will be obtained from offshore borrow areas approximately 2 miles south of the pier. “Both ends of the island have eroded at a higher rate over the past few years compared to historical trends,” said Steven Traynum, president of Coastal Science & Engineering in Columbia, and IOP coastal engineer consultant. “Since 2018, erosion has more than doubled the prior pace, and erosion occurring at the south end around 2022-23 was over 10 times the historical rate.” He added that the east end of the island has lost about “254,000 cubic yards of sand per year since 2018” – an equivalent volume of approximately 78 Olympic-size pools. The most recent attempt to combat erosion came from a beneficial use project, completed on April 20 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to dredge excess sand from an Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW) shoal around the IOP Connector bridge. The effort moved about 700,000 cubic yards of beach-quality sand from USACE’s routine maintenance of the waterway to nourish the Isle of Palms’ coastal system. The area south of the pier gained nearly 300,000 cubic yards in just the past year alone. IOP City further benefited with sand being placed below the high-tide line at no additional cost, with the AIWW operations and maintenance program largely paying for the project. “It is likely we will work with the USACE again in the future on other beneficial use projects,” Uys said. The 2026 project looks even more encouraging. For example, at the March 26 town hall meeting, IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds pointed out to a gathering of around 300 people that three of the five bids received for the work came in far under expectations. The low bid by Marinex Construction Inc of North Charleston was $21.47 million – nearly $11 million lower than anticipated. “It’s certainly welcome news for 2.5 million cubic yards,” Pounds said. “And I think we'll be guided by our coastal engineer if we should add more.” A lingering question now for members of IOP City Council is whether to take the low bid and save the extra money, or, as Uys pointed out, to continue ahead with the original $32 million budget and “use the difference to place an additional volume of sand.” “We may have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to buy some sand at a pretty cheap price,” Pounds said. “Those will be conversations we'll be having over the next month or so to see what we want to do.” Sand placement is not the only potential solution. At the town hall meeting, residents Corey and Sheri Hillis asked about two other possibilities: constructing a groin (a hard aquatic structure perpendicular to the shoreline) to trap sand in order to either build up the beaches or significantly reduce the amount of erosion; or a jetty to serve the same purpose and save even more money. Councilman John Bogosian responded by saying that a city consultant is working on multiple beach management potentials “and a groin is absolutely one of them, especially on the south end. But they're looking at a whole host of other things to recommend to us.” Efforts have been further strengthened by: • A recent $1.52 million grant from South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism. This was SCPRT’s third grant to IOP for beach renourishment since 2017, and city leaders are expecting more. “We have requested a total of $5.3 million in state grants,” Uys said. “When we select a bidder, we will be able to confirm the total cost.” • A 2,500-foot shoal that began forming in 2024 directly in front of Beachwood East at Wild Dunes. Traynum said in April 2025 that while the shoal has created localized areas of severe erosion while it attaches, it was even then already adding “600,000 cubic yards of sand to the island.” • Contracting with Foth |Olsen, a full-service science and engineering firm out of Jacksonville, Florida, to provide an alternative beach analysis. The firm will work alongside Coastal Science & Engineering. Findings and recommendations are expected to be ready by the May 26 council meeting. Per recommendations from the Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee, council is considering hiring one full-time employee tasked with overseeing resilience efforts, including beach management. Altogether, it’s a long way from 1983, when IOP City attempted its first beach nourishment. Since then, erosion control efforts have included sand scraping, sandbags to protect structures and several large-scale projects to keep Mother Nature at bay. But going forward, the new project could end up being the one that changes the island’s future from lingering uncertainty to a new era of sustainability. “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,” Pounds said. “Every dollar the state invests in beach nourishment returns over $1,200 in economic activity and $250 in taxes, while also protecting our coast from storms. Protecting our beaches means protecting one of South Carolina’s greatest assets.” The latest USACE dredging effort ended on April 20. Photos Courtesy of IOP City Isle of Palms is preparing for its largest beach nourishment project to date, such as this one from 2018.
6 IslandVibesIOP.com IOP Police: Zero tolerance for unpermitted large gatherings By L. C. Leach III First IOP Town Hall brings crowds, questions By L. C. Leach III NEWS While the specific city ordinance has been on the books for three years, IOP police are reminding everyone that it is unlawful for any group to congregate at any time of year in large numbers on the island’s public property, especially including the beaches, without a valid permit. The prompting comes on the heels of an attempted ‘teen beach takeover’ on April 4 that was intended to be ‘the biggest teen beach party of 2026.’ While police said the party itself was not an issue, the lack of securing a permit beforehand not only put the gathering in jeopardy of violating a city policy of zero tolerance for unpermitted large gatherings, but also raised a safety concern for the invitees and anyone else who might have happened to be close at hand. “These kinds of beach events can turn into hundreds of people in one place,” said IOPPD Sgt. Matt Storen. “When we spoke to the organizer and told him he couldn’t do it without Isle of Palms’ first-ever public town hall meeting on March 26 served as a chance for residents to meet the nine members of city council, ask questions about ongoing issues and express concerns about the direction the island is headed for the near and long-term future. Approximately 300 people – half in person and half on YouTube livestream securing a permit, they cancelled the event.” Police learned of the proposed party through special software that scans social media and the internet for large gatherings, such as the ‘beach takeover’ – which Storen said had “spread like wildfire.” He pointed out that the chief concerns for these kinds of events, especially when occurring around spring break, relate to “underage alcohol use, drug use and the potential for violence.” The zero-tolerance policy was adopted in May 2023 after a tragic Easter week shooting incident that occurred on Good Friday. Five people were shot – one adult and four teens – with a single assailant arrested on multiple charges including five counts of attempted murder, and one count of possession of a stolen vehicle. Storen said police from then on have had to shut down similar unpermitted events because “that shooting changed the dynamic of these kinds of gatherings.” Since then, the subsequent ordinance requires permission from IOPPD in the form of securing an online permit, usually 14 days in advance, for gatherings on public property, including the beach and beach access paths, that are expected to involve more than 50 people. The granting or denying of a permit usually takes days or up to a week – “and Police Chief Kevin Cornett is usually the deciding voice on that.” “We always try to take a zero-tolerance policy that could impact the safety of residents and visitors,” Storen said. “Violators can face fines up to or exceeding $1,000.” In addition to safety concerns, the ordinance is in place to protect island wildlife; prevent interference with public use of any street or beach within half a block during peak season, which runs March 1 through Sept. 9; and ensure that the city is able to provide litter clean-up and traffic control. “This ordinance is not to discourage people from coming, but gives us the ability to plan our resources better,” Storen said. “We always welcome everyone to come and enjoy IOP. We only ask that they do so by following all the laws and rules of the beach.” need to look into and fix as soon as we can.” • Beach Groins. With ongoing efforts to control beach erosion, Corey and Sheri Hillis wondered if it would be possible to construct a groin (hard aquatic structure) to trap sand in order to either build up the beaches or significantly reduce the amount of erosion. Also suggested was a jetty, which Corey said “could save us a lot of money.” Councilman John Bogosian responded by saying that the city has a consultant working on multiple beach management potentials “and a groin is absolutely one of them, especially on the south end. But they're looking at a whole host of other things to recommend to us.” • Noise Ordinance Clarification. Rebecca Habbick submitted this dual question regarding the IOP Noise Ordinance: “When are quiet hours? What is the punishment warning?” IOPPD Chief Kevin Cornett responded that quiet hours will be from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays, and 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekends. As for punishment and warnings, he clarified Flyer for IOP Teen Beach Party. Event was cancelled when permit for event was not secured.Photo Courtesy of Isle of Palms Police (Facebook) – turned up at the IOP Recreation Center to do all three. “It's kind of like citizens’ comment,” said Mayor Phillip Pounds at the Feb. 24 regular meeting. “Anybody can speak to that.” Residents spoke on a total of 15 items, including: • IOP Firefighter Pay. While this issue has been simmering for years, mainland resident Danielle Murphy not only favored higher pay for her firefighter husband, but pointed out that qualified IOP firefighters are routinely being lost to surrounding communities because of non-competitive pay. “Colleton County is one of the departments we've lost most firefighters to,” Murphy said. Her comment was borne out this past March by Fire Association President and Battalion Chief Jason Smith, who said the department had just lost three people to Colleton County for a “$30,000 pay raise.” City Councilman David Cohen, while neither agreeing nor disagreeing about a definite salary, concurred that firefighter pay “is a problem that we that the goal of police officers is not to write tickets, but to ensure compliance so that “livability is not impacted in a negative way. And that will continue to be our approach.” Other concerns included the Waterway Boulevard multi-use path, first responder pay, beach access path trash cans and beach litter. Sue Cotton, who moved to Isle of Palms in 2021 as part of a lifelong dream, raised a concern that doesn’t show up on a measurable stat sheet: a barely underlying divisiveness that seems to pervade leadership and communication. “Every time somebody brings something up about our firefighters, our policemen or even our other government employees, we get defensive about it,” Cotton said to the council members. “Why do we have to have this contention between people? This is the first time we've had a lot of great dialogue back and forth.” Given the meeting’s resounding success, IOP Public Information Director Joshua Uys said it is likely that future meetings will continue. “It is council’s intention to repeat these quarterly,” he said. “The success/ ideas for improvement will likely be discussed in council and committee meetings over the coming weeks.” Mayor Phillip Pounds, center, answers a resident question at the March 26 IOP Town Hall Meeting.
7 IslandVibesIOP.com Mayor’s Message IOP Gears Up for a Busy Summer Season 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 Our busy tourist season is soon to be back! As has become our habit, IOP coordinated a pre-season planning meeting with surrounding communities – Mount Pleasant, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach – along with supporting partners – ABC News 4, county and county park reps, SCDOT and Explore Charleston. These semi-annual meetings have been good for collaborating, exploring new ideas to deal with the inflow of cars and people, developing better relationships with those we rely on and then debriefing after the season to review what worked and what needs improving. 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 our website, note new domain: isleofpalms.gov, for information and updates about what is happening this month and for future events. Please help our community and report any coyote sightings by calling our police department’s non-emergency number, 843-886-6522. This helps our staff know where to place signage and focus our efforts for trapping. Our reported sightings are down this year but that doesn’t seem to match anecdotal discussions I hear about. Don’t assume someone else will make the call – you do it! Thanks to all that participated in our inaugural town hall in late March. We had great attendance and good discussions on a variety of topics. Hopefully we will get another one on the calendar for the fall. Stay tuned. Please join me in congratulating Robert Asero for his recent promotion to Public Works director. You may have seen Robert around our community over the years at the rec center, digging a ditch, picking up trash, directing a contractor or doing what he does best – generally helping anyone in need. Robert – congratulations and thank you for what you do for our community! Thank you for the opportunity to serve! Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net CIVICS
once been a good idea. It just got outperformed. Which frankly feels temporary, like a team having an off-season before coming back stronger, louder and with worse judgment. If history tells us anything, alcohol is already in training camp, hydrating (ironically) and preparing for a major comeback. Meanwhile, noise violations continued their steady climb, proving once again that everyone believes their beach playlist is a public service. Officers responded to everything from late-night DJ sets to philosophical debates conducted at full volume. The phrase “we weren’t being that loud” continues to mean absolutely nothing when three different houses call it in. Further down the list, property crimes kept things interesting, with items casually changing ownership without the paperwork. Bicycles vanished like socks in a dryer, and somewhere out there, a golf cart is still living a better life than most of us. General disorderly conduct made its usual appearance, featuring individuals who brought energy, confusion and just enough chaos to require a flashlight and a firm “Alright, what’s going on here?” In summary, Isle of Palms remains a place where the sunsets are perfect, the beach is relaxing and the decision-making continues to experiment with new and exciting ways to go wrong. Officers would like to remind everyone that while alcohol may have taken a surprising dip in the rankings, it’s almost certainly just regrouping. IslandVibesIOP.com 8 ISLE OF PALMS POLICE BLOTTER 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. SUN, SAND AND DECISIONS THAT SEEMED BETTER AT THE TIME. Another reporting period is in the books, and like clockwork (or a beach chair that mysteriously disappears overnight), marijuana offenses have once again secured the No. 1 spot. At this point, it’s not even a competition – it’s a residency. Marijuana isn’t just visiting the Isle of Palms; it owns a timeshare. Officers report it continues to appear in cars, pockets, cup holders and, in at least one case, was probably just “along for the ride.” If consistency were illegal, this category would also be under arrest. Holding strong in second place, traffic violations continue to showcase a bold new driving philosophy: licenses are optional, and rules are more of a vibe. From suspended licenses to uninsured vehicles, drivers approached the road with the confidence of someone who had absolutely not checked their paperwork beforehand. Stop signs were treated like mild suggestions, and speed limits like personal challenges. Now, let’s talk about the real shocker this period … Alcohol-related offenses have slipped to third place. Yes, third. Somewhere, a cooler full of light beer is absolutely beside itself right now. For years, alcohol has been a podium regular – reliable, dependable, always ready to assist in poor decisions. But this time? It got bumped. Overtaken. Outsourced, if you will, by marijuana’s relentless championship run and traffic violations’ “hold my beer” energy. Let’s be clear: alcohol did not try less. It still showed up in open containers, underage possession and the classic “I’m good to drive” confidence that has never Stay tuned, stay safe and remember: those laws everyone keeps ignoring? They’re not suggestions; they’re just waiting patiently for you to test that theory. CRIME
IslandVibesIOP.com 9 The Ultimate Glow-Up Party Younger You’s 1st Anniversary Celebration Featuring Glow, Gratitude & Giveaways Provided BUSINESS Mark your calendar—one of Isle of Palms’ most talked-about wellness destinations is celebrating in style. Younger You Aesthetics & Wellness is hosting its 1st Anniversary Party on May 13 from 5–8 p.m., and it’s shaping up to be an evening that blends beauty, community, and a little bit of sparkle. Located at 1022 Carolina Blvd #301, Younger You is opening its doors for a complimentary celebration to thank the community that has supported its first year of growth. The event invites guests to sip, mingle, and experience the very treatments that have made the boutique medical spa a local favorite. Owner Dr. Jaclyn Lanham says, “At Younger You Aesthetics and Wellness, we’ve created an experience where cutting-edge technology meets uncompromising safety—allowing us to deliver refined, natural results with maximum comfort and minimal downtime.” Throughout the evening, attendees can explore live demonstrations of some of Younger You’s most sought-after services, including a CO2 laser demo and a PRX Derm Perfection treatment, an Italian made topical biostimulator. Guests will also have the chance to experience an Infinite Chiropractic spine analysis, enjoy complimentary B12 and Glowing Shots from The DRIPBaR, and connect with an on-site acupuncturist from Anew Healing. Beyond treatments, the event leans into a curated, coastal-chic atmosphere with local vendors adding to the experience. Wanderlust Wildflower Co. will host a flower stem bar, while Park Lane will showcase handcrafted jewelry pieces—perfect for browsing between sips and conversations. There will be complimentary wine, food and drinks, ensuring the evening feels as indulgent as it is inviting. And then there are the giveaways. With over $7,000 in prizes, the night’s raffle includes everything from skincare and treatment packages to the grand prize: a $5,000 Younger You Transformation Experience. Guests can increase their chances of winning by bringing a friend or completing a treatment quiz during registration. For those ready to commit to their glow-up, the event also offers an exclusive perk: 20% off all products and services when booked that evening—an opportunity rarely extended outside of special occasions. At its core, the anniversary celebration is more than just a party—it’s a reflection of Younger You’s mission to help clients feel confident, refreshed, and entirely themselves. One year in, the team is raising a glass to that mission—and inviting the community to do the same. Admission is free, but space is limited. Guests are encouraged to RSVP by scanning the event QR code to secure their spot. An evening of beauty, beach vibes, and big giveaways? That’s one way to celebrate a first year done right. 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
IslandVibesIOP.com 10 moon to locate the ocean, and artificial light can confuse and disorient them. Remove trash, beach furniture, tents, umbrellas, towels and toys nightly. Fill in sand holes and flatten sandcastles to prevent trapping adult sea turtles and hatchlings alike. Keep dogs leashed and away from nesting sites. Do not allow your dog to harass, bark at or follow sea turtles. Observe these beautiful creatures from a distance. Never approach, shine lights on or take flash photography of nesting turtles. Do not touch or disturb any sea turtle nest or "turtle team" marking tape. It is unlawful to disturb, take or possess any sea turtle or its eggs. Violations can carry heavy fines (up to $25,000) and potential imprisonment. If you hook a turtle while fishing, do not cut the line. Call the SCDNR Hotline at 1-800-922-5431 immediately. Additionally, immediately report dead, injured or harassed turtles to the same SCDNR number. You may also call the Isle of Palms Police Department It’s that time of year again – sea turtle nesting season is upon us. In South Carolina, sea turtle season runs from May 1 to Oct. 31. The following is a brief reminder (or tutorial for all our island newcomers) on the basics of sea turtle rules, laws and advocacy. Turn off or shield all beachfront lights after 10 p.m. and close blinds on ocean-facing windows. Limit the use of flashlights and flash photography after 10 p.m. Sea turtles follow the light of the COMMUNITY A Turtle Tutorial Sea Turtle Nesting Season Underway By Staff BEACH RULES The following rules are enforced by the Isle of Palms Police Department (non-emergency: 843-886-6522) to keep the beach safe, clean and enjoyable for everyone. Know Before You Go LEAVE NO TRACE Use trash and recycling bins at beach access points. Littering can result in fines. NO PROHIBITED ITEMS Glass, alcohol, Styrofoam, plastic bags, straws and balloons are not allowed. Fines can reach $100 per offense. NO SMOKING OR VAPING Smoking of any kind is prohibited on the beach and access paths (fines may apply). NO VEHICLES Cars, golf carts and motorized vehicles are not allowed. Electric bikes/ skateboards are banned between Memorial Day and Labor Day. BOATING SAFETY Jet skis and motorboats must stay out of designated swimming areas. Dogs on the Beach • Dogs are allowed but must follow regulations • Must be vaccinated and wear a valid rabies tag • Owners must clean up after pets • Leash and off-leash hours: ♦ April 1 – Sept. 14: Off-leash 5 a.m.–9 a.m. ♦ Sept. 15 – March 31: Off-leash 4 p.m.–10 a.m. • Permits are free and available through the police department Protect the Beach RESPECT WILDLIFE Sea turtles are endangered; do not disturb them STAY OFF DUNES Use designated paths to protect fragile sand dunes and sea oats FILL IN HOLES Large holes can be dangerous for both people and wildlife Overnight and Gatherings • No overnight sleeping on the beach • Do not leave chairs, tents or gear unattended after sunset • Groups of 50+ require a permit • Commercial activity is not allowed Fire Safety • Fireworks and open fires are strictly prohibited non-emergency line at 843-886-6522 to report any unusual or suspicious activity. These rules apply to residents and visitors alike to ensure the survival of loggerhead sea turtles, which are a threatened species in South Carolina. From May 1 to Oct. 31, protect endangered sea turtles on Isle of Palms by keeping beaches “clean, dark and flat.” Turtles dig the dark! Help them survive and thrive on the Isle of Palms. Flags for Heroes IOP Exchange Club Americanism Program of Service By Robbie Berg The Isle of Palms Exchange Club’s Americanism Program of Service Committee invites everyone from Mount Pleasant, Charleston and the islands to come and view the “Flags for Heroes” display at the Isle of Palms Exchange Club (201 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms) “flying high” and become a sponsor of a flag(s) to honor your hero or heroes. The club has been erecting the flags since Memorial Day 2023. As this is a fundraiser, they also hope that you will visit iopflagsforheroes.com/sponsor-a-flag-1 and sponsor a flag in honor of your hero, and if you are a business, honor several heroes. Those who have seen this beautiful sight of 80 flags flying understand and appreciate what this inspirational experience feels like. It has become a community favorite for Memorial Day, July Fourth and Veterans Day. Each flag at the IOP Exchange Club has a tag noting your hero’s name, rank and other info, with an added feature for the community, sponsors and donors. There is a laminated sheet that lists the flags (veterans) in alphabetical order located on the seawall walkway and dock walkway. Flags are also flown at the circle at Mount Pleasant Towne Center for Veterans Day. Celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation by becoming a sponsor and witnessing this breathtaking display with your family members, taking time to reflect on the service and sacrifice our heroes and their families have given to our country. Honoring your hero allows the IOP Exchange Club’s Americanism Committee to donate all of the funds raised to veterans’ organizations including the Fisher House, Tri-County Veterans Support Network, Vantage Point Foundation, Project Street Outreach and the VA Hospital, just to name a few. Come view your flags from May 18-31, June 29-July 11 and Nov. 7-19 at the IOP Exchange Club for an inspiring tribute to your hero and salute to our 250-year-old nation. Flags for Heroes display at IOP Exchange Club.
IslandVibesIOP.com 11 COMMUNITY Sand savant Piccolo Spoleto artist sculpts whimsical wonders from beach’s bounty By Laura Fogarty Pup-centric Fun in the Island Sun Isle of Paws Music Fest Returns By Allyah Harrar Sand sculptor Tommy Freeman has competed in the last 14 of the Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition’s 37 years. What began as a casual family activity has become a tradition for Freeman and a treasured summertime ritual. His team name has changed several times over the years as have its members, from including his wife and children to eventually encompassing friends, neighbors and colleagues. The one thing that remains a constant though, contest after contest, pickle bucket of sand after pickle bucket of sand, is Freeman’s love of and passion for creating temporary art in the sand. Freeman has won just about every category during his time spent competing at Piccolo Spoleto: Best in Family, Best in Architecture, Best in Creativity; in 2021 he took the top title, Best in Show. “Building in the sand is a stress reliever for me,” explained Freeman. “I don’t have to think about anything at all. I’m just focused on the sand, and the sculpting comes from muscle memory at this point.” Freeman continued, “I’ve always liked creating and working with my hands. I’ve loved woodworking and I’ve also always loved to draw. Sand sculpting is a way for me to bring illustrations to life.” “My only A’s in school were earned in wood shop,” Freeman laughed, “and as a matter of fact in the sixth grade I made a clock that my shop teacher wanted to enter in the Oklahoma State Fair. I wanted to give the clock to my grandparents for their 50th wedding anniversary. The timeline didn’t work for both to be possible, so I gave it to my grandparents.” Freeman is the owner-operator of JAC Services, a local HVAC company. When he’s not working, he likes to “relax” by not only sculpting in the sand but also with metal work. “I have several Broncos,” Freeman explained, “both newer and vintage. I enjoy creating roll cages, bumpers, utility racks, that type of thing.” As a young boy, Freeman spent his free time using his creativity for problem-solving. He recalled how he once built a trap to catch gophers in the backyard with a laundry basket, a stick and some string. The medium has changed over time, but the ingenuity and problem-solving remain. Freeman elaborated, “Building something from the sand relaxes me and brings me joy. It seems to make people happy too, so that’s a nice feeling, making people smile.” You can catch Freeman and other local and regional artists at the 2026 Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition, which will be held on Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Front Beach, Isle of Palms. Here’s to hoping for good weather and even better artwork from Freeman and his competitors. Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition Best in Show team Rhett and Doug Vogel, Charles McCutcheon and Tommy Freeman. Calling all dog lovers, mark your calendars because the Isle of Paws Music Fest is back and it’s shaping up to be the best one yet. Set beneath the oaks at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department, the festival will be held on Thursday, May 21, from 4 to 7 p.m., with both twolegged and four-legged guests welcome. Free and open to all ages, this pawsitive event blends live music, local vendors and plenty of pup-centric fun into one evening. At its heart, Isle of Paws is a celebration of our community, bringing together pet owners, animal advocates and local businesses for a night of both connection and entertainment. Attendees can expect a curated mix of pet-related vendors and local rescues on site, offering everything from adoption opportunities to information and services that help keep Charleston’s furry residents happy and healthy. One of the most anticipated activities will be the dog show, where proud pet parents can show off their companions in a variety of categories. From “Best Dressed” to “Cutest Puppy” (for dogs under 1 year old) and “Best Looking,” the contest is sure to bring in a little friendly competition and a lot of cuteness. Rescue dogs will also have their moment in the spotlight, with awards for both best male and female rescues highlighting the importance of adoption and providing our canine friends with a second chance. For those looking to participate, registration for the dog show is open now. With limited spots available on the day of, organizers encourage early sign-ups to secure your place in the lineup. The music will set the tone for the evening with live performances from local favorites like New Ghost Town and Flatt City Bluegrass. Beyond the music and festivities, guests will have a variety of food trucks and concessions available to them. Plus, for dog owners interested in training and certification, S.T.A.R. will be on site offering K-9 Good Citizenship testing (an added bonus for those looking to take their pup’s skills to the next level). While dogs must remain leashed throughout the majority of the event, an on-site dog park will be available for off-leash play to give pups a chance to burn off energy and socialize in a safe space. What if you don’t have a dog? That’s no problem at all. Isle of Paws is just as much about the people as it is the pets, offering a welcoming atmosphere filled with music, food and friendly faces. So, whether you’re looking to enter your dog in the show, browse local vendors or simply soak up the springtime vibes, the Isle of Paws Music Fest is a reminder of how much joy our fourlegged friends bring to everyday life and how our community comes together to celebrate them. Photos from 2025 Isle of Paws flyer
IslandVibesIOP.com 12 Isle of Palms VFW Delivers More Than a Meal By Pamela Marsh, Jr VP, VFW Post 3137 Auxiliary Fair Winds and Lowcountry Adventures on the Water By Pamela Marsh, Past Commodore, Wild Dunes Yacht Club 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. VFW Post 3137 Auxiliary on the Isle of Palms actively supports a variety of veteran organizations. The Fisher House, located at 150 Wentworth St. in downtown Charleston, provides a "home away from home" for families of veterans receiving care at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center. Fisher House offers free lodging, with eligibility determined by the Fisher House team, based on national guidelines. The facility offers a comfortable environment with amenities like a kitchen, laundry and free parking. On a recent Sunday evening, the VFW Auxiliary of Isle of Palms provided a meal for the guests residing in the House. Members of the Auxiliary prepared and served the meal, according to guidelines provided by the Fisher House. Guests enjoyed the hot meal and the group camaraderie. A veteran who had been staying in the House for over a month following a lung transplant was especially grateful for the "home-cooked" meal. For more information on the VFW Post 3137, go to vfw3137.org. Blue skies and fair winds created a perfect weekend for the spring cruise of the Wild Dunes Yacht Club in April. Captains and crews of sailboats, cabin cruisers and motor boats traveled north on the Intracoastal Waterway into Winyah Bay and up the Sampit River to the Harborwalk Marina in Georgetown, South Carolina. An additional luncheon excursion up the Waccamaw River to the Wacca Wache Marina in Murrells Inlet provided the opportunity to view bald eagles and alligators along the undeveloped river. Chartered in 2007, the Wild Dunes Yacht Club has the mission of promoting water-related activities, boating safety and conservation of marine natural resources. The fulfillment of that mission has included day and weekend-long cruises, kayaking, "raft Photo caption: Left to right: Bill Marsh, Sally Few, Patti Porfeli, Pamela Marsh and Linda Forslund. Members of Wild Dunes Yacht Club. -ups,” and participation in boat parades and fishing tournaments. The club has hosted speakers from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Natural Resources, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Maritime Association of SC, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Great Loop Association. There is also the social mission of the boating community. Most days of boating end with "docktails," a group dinner and sitting on the bridge/salon of a member's boat, sharing tales of boating adventures and enjoying the ambiance of a starry night! The fall cruise is planned for Beaufort, South Carolina, with docking at the Safe Harbor Marina. An additional excursion is planned to hike on the undeveloped St. Phillips Island, known for its pristine maritime forest, beaches and marshes.
What is the secret to a long life? According to Kathryn Magruder, who is practically an expert on the topic at 106 years of age, the secret to a long life remains, “A glass of Chardonnay nightly.” Magruder’s daughter of the same name said the secret to a long life is community. The younger Kathryn explained, “No matter if Mama says it’s a glass of Chardonnay or a game of duplicate bridge, the truth is: life begins and ends with community.” And what an amazing community of which these beautiful women have become an integral part. From duplicate bridge in Mount Pleasant to the farmers market at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department, this dynamic mother/daughter duo embraces island life to its fullest. Opportunities abound not only for the Magruders, but also for the many retirees who call Isle of Palms home. The recreation center offers a plethora of senior-friendly activities, including: • Keenagers social group, a free social gathering for individuals 55 and up that meets the first Wednesday of the month from September through May. • Mahjong open play meets Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday in the lobby or the Tadpole Room and is free to island residents. Mahjong lessons from beginner to advanced play are available to all. • Bridge Social Club meets Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in the rec center lobby and is free to island residents, drop-ins and island visitors. • Seniors Yoga is the same as traditional yoga, at a slower pace focusing on balance, strength and flexibility. Offered Mondays at 2 p.m. • Over 60 Group Training is a low-impact, total body workout with adaptive moves for most fitness levels. • Senior Functional & Mobility Fitness is a gentle, low-impact movement class with light weight training. Chairs provided for optional seated exercise and stability. • Reaction Time Training and Fall Prevention focuses on reactive balance training that uses unpredictable movements and cognitive motor training to help improve your ability to quickly respond to a loss of balance. • Line Dancing, a class focusing on fun line dance, brings enjoyment and exercise together. • Pickleball lessons, which offer beginner clinics focusing on understanding the rules of pickleball and improving your game. • Game room activities, including card games, dominoes, scrabble and more. In addition to the many activities at the rec department, there are ample opportunities for community engagement through the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, a community service organization serving the Greater Charleston area since 1948. The Exchange Club focuses on programs dedicated to Americanism, youth programs, community service and preventing child abuse. The Exchange Club hosts fundraisers, supports veterans, provides scholarships and manages a waterfront facility on Hamlin Creek. Wild Dunes, a world-renowned resort facility, offers much for retirees including The Spa at Sweetgrass, a 10,000-square-foot sanctuary with ocean-inspired spa therapies and mindful classes focusing on the restorative beauty of the South Carolina coast. It is also home to the Links and Harbor golf courses. Led by PGA-certified professionals, Wild Dunes golf offers premier instruction through private lessons and programs, all tailored to your specific goals. The resort offers space for every group to come together, from milestone birthdays and multi-generational reunions to friends’ weekends and special celebrations. With private homes and villas, spacious hotels and countless ways to relax and play, it’s the perfect coastal setting for memorable moments shared across generations Another retiree-friendly feature on the island is the newly renovated Isle of Palms Public Dock, located at the Isle of Palms Marina at 50 41st Ave. The public dock is open every day from sunrise to sunset and is free to use. It provides a picturesque spot to launch a kayak or paddle board, fish, read a book, watch the sunset, look for dolphins, soak up the sun or simply relax and enjoy the view. For those with impaired mobility, the Isle of Palms offers several handicap-accessible beach paths, with the primary, fully ADA-compliant access located at Isle of Palms County Park. The county park features boardwalks, ramps to the sand, beach wheelchairs and accessible amenities. Additional accessible points include Beach Access 34A and locations along Palm Boulevard. Standard and off-road beach wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis at the county park. While Kathyrn Magruder and her mother “Mama” enjoy the farmers market and numerous other activities offered to island residents, they also love to travel and especially enjoy visiting family. Kathryn explained, “My fifth grandchild, Mama’s fifth great-grandchild, is due in October. Mama will turn 107 in September. We will be traveling to California to meet the new baby shortly thereafter. It’s all about being part of community, whether that’s your family, your island or beyond. We are all in this together and a good attitude goes a long way.” Indeed it does; more specifically, a good attitude goes exactly 106 years and counting. 13 IslandVibesIOP.com Secret to a Long Life Community and a Glass of Chardonnay By Staff FEATURE
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